GameDev Reincarnated into His Own Creation

Vol 2 - Chapter 26.1: Multithreading

"I... thank you for the invitation. But the seat of Shizka is not mine to claim. It was my sister's devotion that earned Shizka's blessing."

He looked each of them in the eye, making his position clear without being openly hostile.

"I have my own path at the Academy, and while I respect the Church and its teachings, I have no intention of joining any political faction."

A flicker of disappointment crossed Voss's face before smoothing into practiced diplomacy. "Of course. Family connections do not necessarily dictate one's calling." He exchanged meaningful glances with his companions.

"Our invitation remains open, should you reconsider. The Circle meets every seventh evening in the eastern chapel."

The other students nodded in unison, their stoles shifting with the movement. The one in Calyphe's purple stepped forward again.

"We shall not keep you from your routine. But know that you have allies and support from us should you require it."

Vel kept his expression carefully neutral. The offer sounded familiar—too familiar. Lady Halen's "generosity" had taught him enough about how factions operated.

"I appreciate that. I'll remember your generous offer."

As the group departed with synchronized nods and murmured blessings, Vel watched them go, their robed uniforms and colorful stoles fluttering slightly in the morning breeze. Their unison footsteps made them look like a small procession moving through the courtyard, the embodiment of church unity and purpose.

Vel wasn't sure if he should be grateful for such an opportunity or wary about it. The political machinations of the Academy were becoming clearer each day, and now the Church faction had made their move. On one hand, having allies among the religious students could provide protection and information. On the other, he'd be leveraging Landre's hard-earned position for his own gain.

The offer felt like the first thread of a web he wanted no part in.

Vel let out a breath and turned, returning to his path toward class. Their synchronized departure, a perfect picture of unity, replayed in his mind.

Five students, five gods, yet I'm no god of light. They'd have to find someone else for that seat.

Academy life was getting unpredictable. He'd hoped to enjoy simple school days—something he'd missed dearly from his old life. But ever since the duel with Thornwood, everything had shifted. If the Church faction had made their move this early, how long before the Royal and Guild factions followed suit?

Not that he could join their divine circle anyway. His relationship with the divine was... complicated at best.

The classroom door was pushed open, revealing morning sunlight streaming through tall windows and illuminating countless dust motes that danced in lazy spirals through the still air. The familiar scent of chalk and old parchment hung heavy in the quiet space, broken only by the soft rustle of turning pages.

Vel stepped inside, still distracted by the Church students' approach.

"Morning, Vel," Tomas called out, looking up from his book.

Vel moved toward his seat in a daze, barely registering the greeting. Only after sliding into his chair did he glance up to find Tomas watching him expectantly.

"Everything alright? You look like you've seen a ghost."

"Hm? No...Nothing important," Vel replied with a dismissive wave, settling his bag beside his desk.