Chapter 28: The General of the Second Army Group

Alia maintained a graceful smile as she accompanied Marcellus, engaging in polite conversations with the other nobles. However, inwardly, she was rolling her eyes and silently mocking them. "These people are so fake and insipid. A bunch of good-for-nothings. Honestly, if someone cleaned out their mansions, maybe they'd finally learn some humility."

Despite her composed exterior, her gaze frequently flitted toward the main hall doors. She was discreetly watching for the return of Elise and Adrian, feeling a mix of concern and anticipation for the little scheme she had set into motion.

At last, the pair appeared at the entrance. They walked in side by side, but something was clearly amiss. Elise had her head lowered, her eyes slightly red as if she had been crying. Adrian, on the other hand, wore an expression of frustration, as though unwilling to accept something. What caught Alia's attention most was Elise's slightly swollen lips, unmistakable evidence of a recent kiss.

Alia raised an eyebrow at the sight, a sly smile playing on her lips. "My honest little brother… who knew he could have such a 'wild' side?"

She quickly regained her composure, knowing she couldn't let Elise become the center of attention. Without drawing too much notice, she moved over, gently taking Elise's hand and pulling her close. In a low voice, she said, "Straighten yourself up. Don't let those gossiping noblewomen catch on to anything."

Elise flushed scarlet, her voice barely above a whisper as she replied, "Yes, Madam." She hurriedly adjusted her hair and dress, striving to restore her usual demure appearance.

Standing beside Elise, Alia casually shielded her from prying eyes while casting a glance toward Adrian. He was leaning lazily against a pillar, lips pressed together as if savoring the memory of what had just happened. His gaze occasionally flickered to Elise's retreating figure, a mixture of reluctance and resignation in his eyes.

Alia couldn't help but shake her head slightly, torn between exasperation and amusement. "What an amusing pair of fools. Looks like I'll have to keep an eye on them."

Moments later, she looped her arm through Marcellus's, accompanying him as they toasted the guests. The light from the chandeliers reflected off the wine glasses, casting a soft glow. With each step, Alia had to endure wave after wave of insincere pleasantries and tiresome flattery. Though her smile remained impeccable, inwardly she was already weary.

Finally, they stopped before a man in his mid-forties with a stern, rugged face and a commanding presence. He wore a military uniform adorned with medals, standing tall with an air of unshakable authority.

"Livia, allow me to introduce the General of the Second Army Group, Eryx Londe," Marcellus said with a tone of respect and admiration, clearly holding the commander in high regard.

Alia hesitated for a moment, her gaze lingering on Eryx. His upright demeanor and imposing aura stirred something complex within her, but mostly, she felt a sense of relief.

"Madam," Eryx greeted her with a steady, baritone voice, his tone carrying the disciplined seriousness of a soldier. He gave her a slight nod of acknowledgment, a formal display of respect.

Alia offered a faint smile, repeating his name silently in her mind. Eryx Londe… Though the name was familiar, neither his appearance nor his voice matched her memories. He was not her mentor from her previous life.

A pang of disappointment struck her heart. She had hoped to see that familiar face again, to hear the voice that had once taught her how to move unseen and disarm traps. But this Eryx, for all his valor, had no connection to her past.

"It's a pleasure to meet you." Alia said with a polite curtsy, her tone measured and composed. She quickly suppressed the wave of emotions, recovering her usual poise within moments.

Yet amidst her disappointment, she also felt a sense of relief. At least this Eryx wasn't her former mentor, which meant she didn't have to conceal her identity around him or worry about being recognized.

Even so, her thoughts drifted to that familiar figure. Where are you now, master? Are you also searching for the Holy Grail? After all, this arduous mission was originally entrusted to me by you.

As these thoughts crossed her mind, Alia's gaze flickered with resolve. She silently vowed to uncover clues about the Grail soon—not just for herself but also as a way to honor her master and the memories they shared.

Noticing her brief distraction, Marcellus gently tapped her hand and whispered, "Darling, don't lose your composure."

Snapping back to reality, Alia offered a faint smile and masked her lapse with a charming demeanor. "My apologies. I seem to have been momentarily lost in thought." She dipped her head gracefully and added, "Your reputation precedes you. It's an honor to meet you in person."

Marcellus chuckled lightly, diffusing any tension. "It seems my wife is so impressed by the commander's renown that she was momentarily captivated. Understandable, wouldn't you agree?" His playful tone neatly smoothed over the situation.

Eryx gave a faint smile but didn't say much. His deep, penetrating gaze swept over Alia briefly, and for a fleeting moment, something sharp and discerning flickered in his eyes. It was as if he had noticed something, but whatever it was, he hid it swiftly behind an impassive expression.

"Madam, you flatter me," Eryx replied evenly. "I'm just a soldier, hardly deserving of such accolades. Still, the arrangements for tonight's event are remarkable. I can see the thoughtfulness and skill that went into it."

"You're too kind. The credit belongs to the team," Alia responded modestly, though inwardly she was on guard. That fleeting glint in his eyes had not escaped her intuition. While she couldn't pinpoint what it was, her instincts told her it was no ordinary look.

As they moved on to mingle with other guests, Marcellus's laughter rang out, blending seamlessly with the convivial atmosphere. Outwardly, Alia appeared calm and composed, but inside, a new layer of vigilance had taken root. Whether it was her momentary distraction or Eryx's sharp instincts, she couldn't afford to let her guard down.

In this grand ballroom, amidst the glittering chandeliers and lively chatter, Alia was certain of one thing—she wasn't the only one navigating these turbulent undercurrents.