Chapter 18: The Price of Interruption

I moved swiftly through the dimly lit corridors of the Celestial Sanctum, my senses heightened and thoughts racing. The Eclipse Order's actions didn't add up. If their target was the prince and princess, they would have been more focused and precise. But their attacks were scattered—chaotic.

That could only mean one thing: they had another motive.

I clenched my fists, my expression cold. But honestly, their agenda didn't matter to me. Let them rob, burn, or destroy everything here. What infuriated me was that they dared to cross my path and endanger my valuable tool—Sylvie.

"I won’t let this slip," I muttered. "They’ll pay."

My steps quickened as I neared the treasure chamber. The grand double doors stood slightly ajar, and a faint pulse of mana prickled the air. I masked my presence, moving silently along the shadows until I caught sight of two figures inside.

One was a swordsman clad in dark armor, his presence radiating lethal confidence—Stage 5 Empowered Aura. His hand rested on the hilt of a gleaming sword. Beside him stood a cloaked mage, mana swirling faintly around his fingertips—Stage 3 Advanced Mage.

The mage examined an ancient relic on a pedestal, his lips curling into a satisfied grin. "This will fetch a fortune."

The swordsman snorted. "We're not here to profit. Stay focused."

I narrowed my eyes, observing silently. The Celestial Sanctum housed countless artifacts of immense power. That had to be their true target.

The swordsman suddenly stiffened, his gaze sharp as he scanned the room. "We're not alone."

The mage chuckled, his tone amused. "A curious rat, perhaps?"

I stepped out of the shadows, my expression impassive. "Not a rat."

The swordsman's eyes glinted with mild amusement. "A brat, then."

I smiled coldly. "You can think that—for now."

The swordsman scoffed, already turning toward the exit. "I'm leaving. We've got what we came for."

The mage's grin widened as he stepped forward, mana swirling around his hands. "I'll take care of this little pest."

"Be quick," the swordsman said without looking back. His presence faded as he walked away.

The mage's voice was gleeful. "This won't take long."

Mana crackled in the air as he prepared to attack. My blood simmered—not with fear but with cold determination.

They thought I was a mere obstacle.

They were wrong.

To be continued.......