The Swarm's Beginning

Celia's Perspective:

Evelina Blackrose, huh? The Queen of Curses herself. I never thought I'd be standing face to face with her, let alone hearing her tell me she respects my willpower.

…Respect, huh?

That doesn't mean I should trust her. Let's not forget—this is the same woman who slaughtered millions of people five hundred years ago. The very embodiment of devastation. If I let my guard down just because she smiles at me, I might as well throw myself into the mouth of a dragon and call it a day.

Evelina arched an eyebrow, her crimson eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh my, you're giving me quite the look, little one. I wonder… are you thinking something rather unpleasant about me?"

I flinched. Just a little. "It's nothing."

She chuckled, her voice dripping with something playful, teasing, almost like a melody. "Ara~ Come now, don't be shy. If you're curious, why not just ask? I promise, I won't bite." She tilted her head, smiling in a way that felt both lovely and terrifying at the same time. "Well, unless you'd like me to."

...Yeah, not terrifying at all. Nope. Not even a little bit.

I swallowed hard, gripping the edges of my sleeves. My mind wandered back—back to when I first met Kiel. I remember the way his fingers flipped through those dusty old history books, the look in his eyes as he read about the bloodshed of five centuries past.

The Queen of Curses… she didn't do it alone. The Heavenly Sorcerer, chosen by the Gods themselves, stood beside her, their hands drenched in just as much blood.

Seventy percent of the world… gone. Annihilated. Until they were stopped—until Marseille Astraeus, the Forbidden Wielder, ended it.

I clenched my fists.

I had to ask.

"Why did you do it?"

Evelina blinked. Then… she laughed. Lightly at first, like she was genuinely surprised. But then, she let out a full, rich laugh, touching a hand to her lips.

"You're direct, aren't you?" She leaned closer, her tone dropping into something softer. "But are you sure you want to hear the answer, little one?"

My throat tightened. "I have to. Your past… it's shaped my entire life in ways I never wanted. Pain, hatred, loss—it all stems from what you did. I deserve an explanation."

Her smile lingered, but this time, there was something else in her eyes. A faint sadness, hidden beneath all the amusement. She sighed, tilting her head. "Ara, ara~ So stubborn… Fine. I'll tell you—just a little."

I braced myself as she straightened, her presence shifting from playful to something more… wistful.

"The world blamed us for saving it."

I felt my breath hitch. "What…?"

Evelina's expression didn't change, but her voice carried a strange weight, like she was reliving something far too painful to be spoken aloud.

"The rulers declared that our power was too dangerous. That victory came at too great a cost. The people—those ungrateful little things—turned against us. They feared us. Hated us. And when their rulers spun their lies, they swallowed them whole."

I swallowed. "But why—?"

"They demanded our death," Evelina continued, her eyes drifting to some unseen past. "We saved the world, yet it was us they chose to hate. They feared us, despised us, and in the end… they decided the world would be better off without us."

She exhaled slowly, a distant, unreadable smile crossing her lips. "But there was a hero," she murmured, her voice laced with something fragile—something almost mournful. "Someone who sacrificed everything. He gave up all of his power, drained himself to his very core, left himself weak—helpless—just to protect this world."

Her fingers curled slightly, as if grasping something long lost. "And yet, it was him they wanted gone the most."

She closed her eyes for a moment before opening them again, softer now, yet filled with something deeper. "He was our most cherished person. Mine… and the Heavenly Sorcerer's. More than anyone, we wanted to protect him. But the world—" She let out a quiet laugh, bitter yet laced with sorrow. "The world wanted him dead."

My stomach twisted into knots. "You tried to protect him, didn't you?"

A small, humorless chuckle. "Of course we did. The Heavenly Sorcerer and I—we tried to hide him, keep him safe. But the world is cruel to those it fears. They dragged him through the streets, humiliated him, hurt him. And in the end…" Her voice softened, barely above a whisper.

"They made his execution a celebration."

I clenched my teeth, my chest tightening. "That's—"

"Unforgivable?" Evelina mused, a bitter smile touching her lips. "Yes… We thought so, too."

I couldn't speak. The words wouldn't come.

She let out a soft hum before tilting her head back slightly. "That was the day we realized… this world didn't deserve to be saved."

Silence. Heavy. Suffocating. I could feel my hands trembling.

But then, she exhaled, shifting her gaze back to me, her smile returning—gentler, almost affectionate. "You wish to know more, don't you, Celia?"

I nodded, barely able to find my voice. "Please."

Evelina chuckled. "Then listen well."

"We were forced to do it—to save one person."

My heart pounded.

"There was a curse," she continued, her voice quieter now, almost distant. "A divine punishment. A condition placed upon someone we loved."

Her eyes softened, the way a person's might when recalling the one thing they cherished most. "Someone worth everything."

She exhaled, her gaze darkening. "His execution wasn't just a death—it was a seal. A judgment passed by the world, but more than that… by the Gods themselves. They didn't just take his life. They bound him, marked him with something absolute."

A bitter smile touched her lips. "No revival magic could ever bring him back. The Gods made sure of that."

I held my breath.

"The only way to break it… was to take the lives of millions and defy the Gods."

A shiver ran down my spine. "That's…"

She smiled again, but it didn't reach her eyes. "We searched for another way. We fought against it. But time was cruel, and so was fate. The choice came down to two things."

She raised a single finger.

"Let our most precious person suffer and die."

Another finger.

"Or become the monsters the world already believed we were."

I didn't realize I was shaking until I forced myself to speak. "And you… you chose to destroy the world?"

A small, almost sad chuckle. "We chose to save him."

The weight of her words sank into me. Heavy. Almost unbearable.

The world never understood them. And yet, in that moment, for the first time, I felt like… I did.

I felt the words from Evelina sink deeper into me, their weight pressing down on my chest. Her sadness, her regret—it was all too familiar. It mirrored something inside me.

As I stood there, my mind was overwhelmed by the thoughts of Kaiser. How much I cherished him, how much I wanted to protect him, to be by his side. My heart twisted in a way that made my breath catch. I didn't know how much more of this pain I could take.

I wanted to protect him, just like Evelina had wanted to protect her own.

In a strange way, it was like our worlds had collided, despite being so different. I didn't understand everything they'd gone through, but the desire to shield the one I loved, to keep him safe from everything, that... that was something I could relate to.

Our motivations weren't so different after all, even if our times were.

I couldn't hold back my question. My voice shook just a little, "Evelina... how did you feel about him? The person you and the Heavenly Sorcerer did everything to save?"

She didn't look at me at first, her gaze far away, as though the answer was just out of reach, buried beneath years of pain. Her voice was soft when it came, heavy with defeat. "We failed. Fate... and even the gods themselves were against us." She sighed, as if the weight of that failure was still with her.

I couldn't help but feel a pang of pity, sadness creeping into me at the thought of such loss. I had seen what it had done to her, to the point where even she seemed broken by it. I swallowed the lump in my throat before asking softly, "Did you love him?"

Her eyes met mine then, and she smiled—tender, almost wistful. "To call it love would be to disrespect the bond I shared with him. He was my everything, Celia. My reason to breathe, to live in this world. A world without him… it wasn't a world I could bear to live in. I loved him that much, more than my life."

I couldn't stop my thoughts from swirling around in my head. Evelina, the Queen of Curses, had loved him more than her own life, more than the world itself.

She had fought for him with everything she had, and even the gods had turned against her. Yet... yet... something didn't sit right with me.

If she really loved him that much, if he was her everything, why didn't she try harder? Why didn't she push even further, break every barrier, cross every line?

If I loved someone like that, I'd never stop fighting. I'd break the world in half if that's what it took.

I couldn't even imagine losing Kaiser like that. Just the thought of it... made my chest pain. I felt my grip on my fists tighten as my mind raced with thoughts of what I would do if someone dared to take him away from me.

My blood boiled. I could feel it—the curse—it grew stronger with every heartbeat, darker, colder. My aura—my murderous aura—spread out, filling the air around me, thickening with rage.

If Kaiser were in that situation, if someone tried to take him...

My body trembled with the sheer anger at the idea of losing him. My teeth ground together, and all I could think of was ripping apart anything or anyone who dared to harm him.

"Celia, you too have someone you cherish, don't you?" Evelina's voice brought me out of my thoughts, her words cutting through my rage like a sharp blade. She spoke as though she could sense my turmoil, and she was right, I did have someone.

I nodded, not trusting myself to speak just yet. My mind was only on one person—Kaiser. My first true friend. The one person who didn't look at me like I was some curse that should be killed.

He gave me a reason to smile, to laugh, to feel... alive. And the thought of losing him... I just couldn't even begin to imagine it.

A cruel smirk spread across Evelina's face, and she leaned in slightly, her eyes gleaming. "What if that person was in a similar situation? What would you do?"

Her question caught me off guard. I didn't know what to say. The words died in my throat. What would I do?

My heart clenched so tightly I thought it might stop. A sickening twist of fear, sorrow, and rage swirled in my chest. My hands clenched into fists so tight my nails dug into my palms.

The cursed energy inside me flared—uncontrollable. My aura grew colder, more dangerous, more murderous. I could feel it—the world—it would not take him from me.

"Take him away from me?" I whispered, my voice colder than ice.

Evelina's eyes sparkled with amusement as she replied, "Yes. The world taking him away from you. What would you do then, Celia?"

I stood there in silence for a moment, the weight of her question settling on my chest. The thought of the world, of anyone, trying to take him... it made my blood burn with a fire I didn't know I could feel.

And then, without thinking, the words spilled out of me, darker than anything I'd ever said before.

"If the world was trying to take him away from me..." I took a deep breath, my voice steady now, my eyes cold and unyielding. "Let it try. I'll burn every inch of this world to the ground before I let that happen. I'll put an end to their lives and make their suffering worse than all the stages of Hell."

I could feel my aura spreading, filling the air like a storm ready to tear everything apart. I could see the slight surprise in Evelina's eyes. I could feel her watching me, trying to read me.

But I didn't care.

Her lips curved into a smile—amusement and something else. A sort of... respect? I didn't know.

Then, I stepped closer to her, narrowing the distance between us. The coldness in my chest didn't leave, but now, it had become a burning certainty. "You said a world without the person you cherish is not worth living in, right?"

Evelina nodded, remembering the words she had spoken earlier.

I smiled, but it wasn't a smile of kindness—it was dark, full of resolve. "For me, a world without him doesn't deserve to exist. And if the world thinks it can tear us apart, I'll destroy it and remake it with my own hands. With blood. I'll carve a place where he'll always be with me. Where nothing will ever take him from my side again."

My words echoed in the air, thick with the promise of destruction. I could feel the power in them, the weight of my vow. I wasn't going to back down. Not for anything. Not for anyone.

Evelina's smile remained, but now, there was a flicker of something else in her gaze. Something... approving. "I see," she said, her voice a mix of admiration and something more sinister.

I wasn't sure if she was impressed, but I didn't care. I had spoken the truth—the truth of my heart. And I would let nothing, and no one take Kaiser away from me. Not now, not ever.

I clenched my fists, feeling the warmth of my cursed energy crawling beneath my skin. The air around me felt heavier, thicker—like the weight of my own resolve was pressing down on me. But I welcomed it. I needed it.

Those monsters, those disgusting bugs that stole him away from me—I'll burn them all alive. I don't care what it takes, I'll tear them apart one by one until there's nothing left but ash. They won't take him from me. They won't.

He was the one who saved me when I had nothing, when the world only looked at me with fear and disgust. He protected me. He gave me warmth when all I had was cold. He made me feel human.

Now it was my turn. I'll save him, I'll protect him—no matter what.

It wasn't just a promise. It was a vow. A truth so deeply carved into my soul that nothing, not even death, could erase it.

My gaze lifted toward Evelina. The Queen of Curses. A woman feared by the world. A woman who once failed to save the one she loved.

I wasn't going to make the same mistake.

I stepped forward, the crimson glow of the blood moon casting a spotlight over the two of us. The cold night air whispered against my skin, but the fire in my heart burned hotter.

I took a deep breath, then exhaled, letting every ounce of hesitation leave my body. My next words would change everything.

"Please fight me, Evelina." My voice was steady, unwavering. "You might've lost the person you loved in the past due to your weakness—" I saw her eyes darken at that, but I didn't stop. "—but I won't be the same as you. I will get stronger. So strong that even the world itself will have no choice but to follow my rules."

Silence.

For a second, Evelina just stared at me. Then, slowly, a devilish smile stretched across her lips.

"…You're playing a dangerous game, little girl," she purred, her voice dripping with amusement, but her eyes—her eyes—were sharp, deadly.

"I don't think you understand just how much stronger I am than you. If we fight, I will break you. I will shatter every bone in your body, drown you in your own curses, and leave you gasping for breath, wondering if you made a mistake challenging me."

Her presence alone sent a chill down my spine, but I didn't flinch.

Instead, I smiled.

A dark, wicked smile.

"Then I'll surpass you." My voice was cold, absolute. "Even if I have to crawl through Hell itself, I'll surpass you and make you kneel before my power."

Our eyes locked, the murderous intent between us thick enough to choke the air.

And just like that—our fight had begun.

Levi's Perspective:

The moment I stepped into the guild hall, I was met with the usual sight—adventurers drinking, chatting, and throwing around war stories like they were the biggest badasses in the world.

It had that same loud, chaotic energy that most guilds had, but there was something a bit different here. More refined. More structured.

Didn't matter to me, though. I wasn't here to admire the furniture.

Before I could take another step, a guild member noticed me and walked over. The guy was young—mid-twenties, maybe—with a decent build. The way he held himself, the slight tension in his posture, the hesitation in his steps—yep. C-Rank.

Not that it mattered. But, hey, old habits die hard.

"Can I help you?" he asked, polite but wary.

I gave him my best cocky grin, the one that usually threw people off. "Yeah, I need to see Alina and Sylvia. Name's Levi. Celestial Apex Guild's Leader."

His eyebrows lifted slightly, but he kept his composure. "Miss Alina is currently in the middle of a guild conquest meeting, but I can take you to see Miss Sylvia."

Figures. Alina always had her hands full.

"Alright," I nodded. "Tell Alina to come find me after. Got something important to discuss."

The guild member nodded in return, then gestured for me to follow. As we moved through the hall, I could already feel the stares—some curious, some wary. Guess word about me hadn't fully spread yet.

Good. That made things more fun.

The office I was led into was… well, exactly what I expected from someone like Sylvia.

Large, but not excessive. A mix of elegance and practicality. A grand oak desk sat near the center, polished to perfection, stacks of neatly organized documents resting on its surface. The walls were lined with bookshelves, filled with records, history, and battle strategies—things only someone truly invested in leadership would keep. The windows were tall, allowing just enough natural light to pour in, giving the room a golden glow under the midday sun.

And at the center of it all, sitting behind that pristine desk, was her.

Sylvia.

She was beautiful, no doubt about it. Silver-white hair that cascaded down her shoulders, eyes the same metallic sheen, sharp and calculating like she could see right through you. She was dressed in a fitted, deep blue noble's coat with silver embroidery, the high collar giving her an air of authority. Beneath it, a sleek, professional-looking white blouse, paired with tailored dark trousers.

Everything about her screamed elegance—from the way she sat, legs crossed, fingers gently laced together, to the way her gaze met mine, unwavering and confident.

Yeah, I was definitely out of place here.

I glanced down at my casual clothes—just a simple black sleeveless top, some worn-out pants, and boots that had seen way too much action. I probably looked like some random street fighter that wandered into a royal estate.

Sylvia's lips curled into a small, knowing smile. "You don't have to look so out of place, Levi. I don't judge a man by his clothing—only by his actions."

I chuckled. "Well, that's good to hear. Would've been real awkward if you threw me out just 'cause I wasn't dressed like a prince."

The guild member who escorted me gave a respectful nod before leaving, closing the door behind him.

"Please, take a seat," Sylvia gestured to the chair across from her.

I did as she said, leaning back comfortably, though my mind was already working through what I was about to say.

This was it.

I wasn't here to flirt. I wasn't here to play around.

We needed their guild's help. If we were going to deal with that grotesque swarm, we needed manpower, strategy, coordination.

And right now, it all depended on me.

I leaned back in my chair, arms crossed, eyes locked on Sylvia. There was something about the way she carried herself—poised, confident, the kind of person who knew exactly what she wanted and how to get it.

And right now, I needed her to want this.

I exhaled, then leaned forward, resting my elbows on the desk between us. "Alright, let's cut straight to it. You know about grotesques, right?"

Sylvia gave a small nod, silver eyes sharp with curiosity. "C to B Rank threats, yes. Dangerous, but manageable in small numbers. What about them?"

"Yeah, well, the usual grotesques? They're nothing special. Tough, ugly, travel in hordes, but overall? No real brains behind 'em." I tapped a finger against the desk. "But here's the problem—there is one that has brains. An S Rank freak of nature calling itself the Swarm Tyrant."

Sylvia arched a brow, hands clasped together on the desk. "Swarm Tyrant?"

I nodded. "King of the Devouring Nest. Unlike the rest, this thing's got tactics. Strength? Off the charts. Intelligence? Enough to command entire armies of grotesques and actually strategize rather than just charge in blindly. If left alone, it won't just attack towns—it'll consume everything. People, land, resources. No survivors. No remains."

Sylvia didn't react immediately, but I could tell she was processing it. She leaned back slightly, crossing her legs, her expression unreadable. "And you're saying this thing is mobilizing?"

"Not just mobilizing—it's expanding. This isn't some random outbreak. It's a war." I glanced at the window behind her, watching the golden rays of the sun filter through. "One city at a time, the swarm will spread. Celestine won't be able to hold it back forever, and once it's done there…" I turned back to her, my tone dropping. "Sylvaris is next."

I could see the shift in her expression—subtle, but there. She wasn't just listening now. She understood.

Sylvia let out a slow breath, tapping a single finger against her desk. "A threat of this scale… if what you're saying is true, then ignoring it isn't an option."

"Glad we're on the same page."

She tilted her head slightly. "Then what do you propose?"

I smirked. "Simple. Celestial Apex and Requiem work together. We combine our forces, our strategies, and we take the swarm down before it grows beyond control. A full-scale coordinated assault to wipe out the grotesques and crush the Tyrant."

Sylvia's eyes flickered with thought. She was considering it—not just the idea itself, but the realistic possibilities.

She tapped her fingers once, then twice, before speaking. "A cooperation between our guilds could prove effective. The manpower of both Celestial Apex and Requiem would allow us to strike with overwhelming force. And considering the level of intelligence you've described in this Tyrant… attacking before it strengthens further is the logical move."

She paused, then continued, this time more measured. "However, there are risks. A campaign of this size will drain resources, both in supplies and personnel. Some of our guild members are currently engaged in other missions—we'd need to recall them, which will affect other contracts and alliances. Additionally, moving this many people would alert the grotesques early. If the Tyrant is as intelligent as you claim, it might anticipate an attack and adapt."

I nodded, resting my chin in my palm. "You're not wrong. But sitting around and waiting for it to come knocking isn't an option either. We act now, or we deal with a nightmare later."

Sylvia studied me for a moment before giving a small smile. "It's a compelling argument. But you'll need to convince Alina as well. Without her agreement, Requiem won't move."

I raised a brow. Of course.

Convincing Sylvia? Reasonable. Straightforward. She looked at the bigger picture.

Alina?

I let out an internal sigh, already picturing the hell this was gonna be. Convincing Alina will be harder than wiping out the grotesques by myself.

Hell, if I had to choose between reasoning with her and fighting the Swarm Tyrant one-on-one, I'd take the Tyrant every time. At least with that thing, I'd get a fair fight.

But I wasn't about to back down.

I flashed Sylvia a cocky grin, resting one foot on the desk just to test how much I could push before she'd call me out. "Alright, no problem. I'll talk to her. Convince her. Charm her, if I have to."

Sylvia gave me a knowing smile. "I wish you luck, then."

Before I could respond, the sound of the office door swinging open caught my attention.

And there she was.

Alina.

I leaned back slightly, giving an exaggerated sigh. Well, that was faster than expected.

"So, you're Levi? The Sword Saint of God Speed, huh?"

Alina's voice was as cold as ice. No emotion, no warmth—just words spoken with the sharp precision of a blade. Her violet eyes barely acknowledged me as she stepped forward, her movements controlled, efficient, calculated.

She carried herself like a queen who had no time for anything beneath her.

I grinned, standing up from my seat, hands slipping into my pockets. "That'd be me. And you'd be Alina—the Sword Saint of Technique."

She didn't react, didn't even acknowledge the title. Just stopped in front of me, tilting her head slightly.

Alright. It's now or never. My hardest conversation of life—convincing a woman just to say yes.

I exhaled and got straight to the point. "The grotesques. You probably know them—C to B Rank threats, messy but dangerous. Alone, they're nothing special, but together, they wipe out entire towns. Usually, they lack any real leadership, but this time…"

I met her gaze. "There's an S Rank leading them. The Swarm Tyrant—King of the Devouring Nest. Smarter, stronger, strategic. This isn't just another outbreak. It's an invasion, and it's spreading fast. Celestine is under siege, and if we don't do something, it's only a matter of time before it moves beyond that."

I watched her. She was listening. No interruptions, no unnecessary comments—just absorbing every word like she was breaking it down piece by piece in her head.

Then she nodded, as if confirming something to herself.

And then—

"No."

No hesitation. No explanation. Just a flat refusal.

I blinked. "…No?"

Alina met my gaze, her voice as lifeless as before. "Requiem won't be involved in this. Your guild, your town—it's not my concern."

I let out a slow breath, rubbing the back of my neck. Yeah. Should've seen that one coming.

I leaned forward slightly, arms resting on the desk. "You realize these things won't stop at Celestine, right? They'll keep moving. Town after town, city after city. If we don't take them out now, Sylvaris could be next."

Alina remained indifferent. "If that time comes, I'll handle it."

I narrowed my eyes. "With what? Hope?"

She finally moved—just slightly, tilting her head. "Valhalla and Crimson Eclipse. If the grotesques become a threat to Sylvaris, they'll stand with me. They owe me."

I scoffed. "So you're saying if it comes knocking at your door, you'll have backup. But until then? You don't care?"

"Correct."

Cold. Unapologetic. Not even a hint of concern.

I exhaled through my nose, tilting my head back. "You do realize people are dying, right? Whole families wiped out. Innocent lives torn apart. You're really just gonna sit back and watch?"

Alina didn't even blink. "If they are weak enough to be wiped out, then they were never meant to survive."

I clenched my fists, the muscles in my jaw tightening.

She continued, unbothered. "You expect me to waste my guild's resources, my people, my efforts—for what? So I can feel some sort of moral satisfaction? This world is not built on kindness, Levi. It's built on power, control, and survival. If something does not benefit me, I have no reason to be involved."

I stayed silent for a moment, just staring at her.

Damn. She really doesn't care.

I let out a small breath, forcing myself to stay calm. Getting emotional wouldn't change anything.

Alright, Levi. Think.

Alina wasn't the type to be swayed by ideals. She didn't care about heroism or saving the weak. No, she was calculating, self-serving—an opportunist.

If I wanted her help, I needed to give her a reason. Something that benefited her.

And right now? I didn't have it.

Time to change that.

"Alright, let's talk business, then. Celestial Apex isn't just some small-time guild, you know. We've got elite swordsmen, top-tier mages, sorcerers, and even a few specialists you won't find anywhere else. If we work together, Requiem could—"

"No."

I blinked. "Damn. Didn't even let me finish."

Alina remained as still as stone, her violet eyes as cold as the dead of winter. "I don't need swordsmen. My people don't rely on brute strength. Precision, tactics, and mastery—those are what wins conquests. Not swinging a blade faster than the next fool."

I scratched my cheek. "Ouch. That hurt a little. But fine, what about our mages? We've got sorcerers capable of large-scale defensive barriers, energy amplification, even time acceleration spells—things your guild doesn't specialize in. That could—"

"Still no."

I sighed. "Alright, and let me guess, you've got a cold, heartless reason why?"

Alina barely blinked. "Magic alone does not win battles. It is a tool. If my guild requires more magic, we will take in specialists who align with our goals. I have no reason to tie myself to yours."

I leaned forward. "Okay, okay. What about resources? Celestial Apex is well-funded. We have supply chains, trade connections, and access to exclusive black-market relics. I bet Requiem could—"

"I don't need your resources."

I stared at her. "You're kidding. Everyone needs resources."

Alina shook her head, her voice completely void of interest. "Requiem already has its own private channels. We don't rely on trade. We take what we need or form contracts with those worth the effort."

I let out a deep breath, rubbing my temple. Man, she's really not budging.

I lifted a finger. "Alright. Last one. Manpower. We have trained warriors, combat units, and experienced strategists who could—"

"No."

I dropped my hand on the table, making a light thud. "Alright, I get it. You don't need anything. But hear me out—what if you just wanted some insurance? You're smart. You know long-term gains matter more than short-term refusals. Aligning with us means—"

Alina's gaze never wavered. "Loyalty is just an illusion created by the weak. People follow only as long as it benefits them—so I make sure I'm always the greater option."

Sylvia, who had been silent up until now, stepped forward. "Alina, listen. There's no harm in forming an alliance. Even if you don't need them now, you could in the future. This could be beneficial if—"

Alina turned her head slightly, cutting Sylvia off with a glance. "If there are no guarantees of advantage, it's a waste of my time. I don't act out of kindness. I act because it serves me. If helping you aligns with my goals, consider yourself lucky. If not, you were never worth my time to begin with."

Sylvia clenched her fists. "Are you really that heartless?"

Alina's expression didn't change. "Emotions are liabilities. Sympathy is a weakness. I deal in results, not attachments."

I let out a sharp breath, shaking my head. "And what if standing against you is the only choice left?"

Her voice was as cold as ever. "If you stand in my way, you're an obstacle. If you serve my interests, you're a tool. Either way, you are replaceable."

Sylvia looked almost disgusted. "How can you think like that?"

Alina didn't hesitate. "Survival isn't about morals or emotions. It's about power. And power belongs to those willing to abandon everything to claim it."

I clenched my jaw, running a hand through my hair. "So what, you'd let the world burn if it got you what you wanted?"

"If destruction brings me closer to what I want, then let the world burn. It was never my concern to begin with."

I stared at her, genuinely trying to figure her out.

She didn't flinch. Didn't hesitate. Didn't care.

And that… that was the problem.

I let out a short laugh—dry, frustrated. "Damn. You really don't care about anyone, do you?"

For the first time, Alina paused. Just for a second. Then—

"Does it matter?"

My grin faded.

"…Maybe it does."

Sylvia stood up from her seat, brushing off the imaginary dust from her coat. With a calm, knowing smile, she raised a hand.

"Alright, alright, let's all take a breath and relax, shall we?"

Her voice was smooth, diplomatic, confident. The kind of voice that could make enemies pause before drawing their blades.

Alina, however, wasn't the type to be swayed easily. She turned her head, shooting Sylvia a sharp glare. But then… something shifted.

The glare faded. Just slightly. Replaced by something more neutral. A rare moment of genuine attention.

Interesting.

I leaned back, crossing my arms. If there was anyone Alina might actually listen to, it was Sylvia.

Sylvia didn't waste the opportunity. She clasped her hands behind her back, her noble posture impeccable. "Alina, let's be realistic. You're a strategist, and I respect that. But sometimes, strategy involves making temporary compromises for greater rewards."

Alina remained silent, her gaze unmoving.

Sylvia continued, "Requiem aligning with Celestial Apex benefits you more than you realize. You gain additional manpower without taking risks, access to their intelligence networks, and a firsthand opportunity to analyze their strengths and weaknesses. Information is power, after all."

Alina blinked once. Then—

"No."

Sylvia's lips curled slightly. "I expected that. But think about it—having Levi's guild as an ally means increased influence. You wouldn't just be maintaining your position; you'd be expanding it. Having Celestial Apex under obligation to you—"

"No."

Damn. She didn't even hesitate.

Sylvia pressed on, not missing a beat. "Financial backing. Celestial Apex has deep pockets, and we both know money fuels power. Imagine the things you could achieve with—"

"No."

I exhaled, shaking my head. Cold as ever.

Sylvia, however, didn't seem fazed. Instead, she hummed, tapping her chin with a thoughtful expression. Then, her eyes lit up as if she had just uncovered a hidden card in her hand.

"Alright then. I have an idea."

I raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"

Sylvia turned to Alina, her smile widening. "How about a bet?"

Alina's eyes narrowed slightly. "A bet?"

"A one-on-one match," Sylvia said smoothly. "You vs Levi in a one on one fight. If he wins, Requiem assists Celestial Apex in fighting the swarm."

Alina didn't even blink. "No."

I grinned. "Oh? What's wrong? Scared you'll lose?"

Her eyes snapped to me, cold and unbothered. "I don't waste time on trash."

Oof. That one had some bite.

I smirked, tilting my head. "Funny. Because by the end of the fight, your little fantasy of being untouchable will be shattered into pieces."

The air between us thickened, my aura stirring like dark flames, hers like cold violet embers.

Before things could spiral, Sylvia swiftly stepped in between us, pressing a hand against my chest with an exasperated sigh. "Alright, that's enough posturing. Alina, I'm curious—why won't you accept?"

Alina glanced at Sylvia with the same detached expression. "I gain nothing from it."

Sylvia's lips curled into a knowing smile. Then, with the grace of a seasoned negotiator, she took a step closer to Alina, lowering her voice slightly. "Oh, Alina. What if I told you that, if you win, I'll personally gather half of Requiem's members to search for him."

Sylvia, ever the tactician, didn't elaborate. She simply tilted her head, letting the weight of her words settle. "You know who I mean," she murmured, her voice like a whisper against the tension in the air. "Half of Requiem, scouring every corner, every lead. A search unlike any before."

Alina's breath hitched, her composure wavering for just a fraction of a second. Her lips parted, but no words came out at first. Then, with quiet intensity, she asked, "Really?"

Sylvia met her gaze without hesitation. "Really."

Alina's entire body stilled.

For the first time since this conversation began, her violet eyes flickered—not with calculation, but with something close to shock.

Well, well. That's new.

I tilted my head, studying her. "Huh. You actually look surprised."

Sylvia glanced at me with a smirk before returning her gaze to Alina. "She won't refuse this, trust me."

Alina remained still for a moment, her eyes locked onto Sylvia's. Then, without another word, she turned and walked toward the exit.

Just as she reached the doorway, she paused. Slowly, she turned her head back, her violet aura flickering to life like spectral flames.

"You and I will fight later this evening," she said, her voice colder than ice. "Sylvaris Arena."

The sheer pressure of her presence filled the room, the weight of her magic pressing against the air.

I felt a familiar thrill pulse through my veins. My own dark flames ignited, shadowy and hungry, rising to meet her intensity.

A grin tugged at my lips. "Oh, this is gonna be fun." I leaned forward, my tone dripping with confidence. "I'll win, you know. After all—" I flashed her a cocky smirk. "I'm the strongest."

Alina's violet flames flared once, casting a ghostly glow over her face. Then, with an icy smirk of her own, she turned fully toward me.

"Just don't get sliced in half, Mr. Self-Proclaimed Strongest."

And with that, she walked out of the room.

I exhaled, my grin widening. Damn. I think I'm actually excited.

I leaned against the stone wall, stretching my arms out with a satisfied sigh. "Hey, Sylvia, gotta admit, I'm pretty grateful you went out of your way to convince Alina. That was... impressive."

She raised an eyebrow, her smile never wavering. "Nothing to thank me for, Levi. It benefits us both."

I cocked my head, intrigued. "How exactly does it benefit you?"

Sylvia stepped closer, her presence as smooth and composed as ever. She leaned in just a bit, her voice dropping to a more secretive tone. "Well," she began, "people would pay a lot to see two Sword Saints fight. It's not something that happens every day, is it?"

I raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at the corner of my lips. Her words hit me differently as I watched her eyes—those calculating, cool eyes that had the power to make even the coldest of men crack.

Oh, I get it now.

Sylvia wasn't just setting up a fight for some heroic cause or for the glory of her guild. No, this was business. Big business. I could practically hear the gold coins jingling in the air.

In my mind, I couldn't help but chuckle. So this is how it is, huh? She's using me—and Alina, for that matter—to turn a nice profit.

The thought alone made me laugh out loud. She's going to make a fortune off us. One fight, and she could be swimming in gold and silver—probably at least 600 gold. Hell, they might even have to build a bigger vault for it after this.

And here I was, thinking I'd get a little assistance with the swarm. But nope, Sylvia was playing the long game, stacking coins instead of favors. Typical.

I shook my head and laughed, letting the sound fill the room. "You're an opportunist, Sylvia."

She smiled back, that same charming, confident smile. "You could say that. But I'd call it... strategic."

I chuckled again, appreciating the way she worked. "Strategic? Yeah, sure, if you want to call it that. But you're not fooling me. You're gonna make a small fortune off of this fight."

Sylvia shrugged lightly, still smiling. "What can I say? Opportunities like this don't come around every day."

I smirked, crossing my arms. "You're a sly one."

She glanced away briefly before her gaze returned to me, a flicker of amusement in her eyes. "And you're not so bad yourself."

I leaned back against the wall, my tone turning a little more serious. "What about Alina? She's... not exactly the kind of person who'd jump at a chance like this."

Sylvia's smile softened, and she took a step back, folding her arms. "No, she's not. She's very detached, almost... inhuman in a way."

I raised an eyebrow. "You really think that? I mean, the woman is like a walking ice block."

Sylvia chuckled, shaking her head. "I didn't mean it like that. It's just... she's always so calculating, you know? She doesn't do anything unless there's something to gain. She's always focused on the end result."

I nodded, letting the truth of her words sink in. "Yeah, I've noticed. She's got that whole 'don't care about the world, just get what I want' vibe."

Sylvia sighed, her expression becoming a little more contemplative. "She's been like that for as long as I've known her. It's not out of malice—more like... survival, I guess."

"Survival, huh?" I mused. "I suppose that makes sense. She's got nothing but power in her sights."

"Exactly." Sylvia's voice softened, almost as though she was speaking about an old friend, despite Alina's coldness. "She's not heartless, Levi. But she's had to fight for everything she's gotten. The way she is—it's just her way of making sure nothing gets in the way of her goals."

I looked at her, seeing the slight hint of empathy in her eyes as she spoke. It was rare for Sylvia to get this... sentimental, but it made sense. She'd seen Alina grow, maybe even understood her more than anyone else.

I smiled lightly, pushing off the wall. "I get it now. You've got her figured out."

Sylvia gave a small nod, a flicker of respect in her eyes. "I wouldn't say figured out. But I know her. Just don't expect her to change. Not unless something big happens."

I laughed lightly, cracking my knuckles. "Well, if she wants to take me on, she's gonna need more than a little change."

Sylvia's smile returned, but it was tinged with something else—something like acknowledgment, or perhaps amusement. "I'll make sure she's ready for you. Just remember, don't underestimate her. She's a lot more than she seems."

I grinned. "Underestimate her? Please. I'm the strongest, remember?"

Sylvia raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in her eyes. "Just don't get sliced in half, Mr. Self-Proclaimed Strongest."

I chuckled, shaking my head. "You know, Sylvia, I think this fight's going to be more fun than I expected."

She shrugged with a smirk. "As long as you don't break anything, it should be a good show for everyone else."

I laughed again, the sound of it echoing off the stone walls. Yeah, this is gonna be fun.

But curiosity nagged at me, and I couldn't help myself. "So, Sylvia," I said, turning my gaze back to her with a playful smirk. "Who's this 'him' that made Alina agree to this fight? You know, the one who convinced her?"

Sylvia's smile widened, a glint of mystery flashing in her eyes. She leaned in slightly, her voice lowering just a touch, adding a bit of intrigue to her response. "Ah, him. He's the only person Alina ever really cares about."

I raised an eyebrow, genuinely shocked. Alina, care about someone? Now that was a surprise. "You mean, she actually cares about someone? Really?"

"Yes," Sylvia replied, her tone a little more serious, though she still carried that same confident air. "She does. But as for who he is..." She trailed off, as if weighing her words carefully before continuing. "I couldn't tell you much. She hasn't revealed much to me, but I have a vague understanding."

I leaned forward, intrigued. "What do you mean by 'vague understanding'?"

Sylvia's expression softened, though her eyes still carried that sharp focus. "He was the one who helped her... when she was at her lowest. He's the reason she believes she can change, that she can write her own future."

I raised my eyebrows even higher. A guy who gave her hope? Now that's a story worth hearing. "And what's his name? Where is he? What's he look like?"

She shook her head, a hint of something unreadable crossing her face. "I don't know. We don't even know what he looks like. Alina's kept everything about him close to her chest."

I frowned, but Sylvia didn't seem the type to lie. "So, you don't know anything about him, huh?"

Sylvia nodded slowly. "All I know is... Alina had a very rough past. A childhood that almost broke her. She lived through horrors that would make even the hardest of men flinch. She... well, she almost lived a life of slavery, torture... all of it."

I froze, my mind struggling to process that. Alina? A life like that? It explained so much. The coldness, the detachment—it was all beginning to make sense. She wasn't just an emotionless machine; she was a survivor, shaped by something dark and terrible.

Sylvia sighed, almost as if the weight of her own words had settled on her shoulders. "That's why she's so... distant. So cold. She doesn't let people in. She's learned to shut everything out. It's the only way she survived."

I bit back a sigh, feeling something unexpected rise up in me—empathy. It was hard not to feel for someone who had endured that kind of life, even if they came off as harsh or unapproachable. Alina wasn't heartless; she was just... guarded.

Sylvia continued, her gaze dropping slightly. "But that person she's looking for... he saved her life. Gave her the strength to keep going when she was at her weakest. And that's why she fights so hard to find him again. To show him that she's changed."

I nodded slowly, piecing things together. "How did he save her? When did that happen?"

Sylvia shook her head again. "I don't know. Alina's kept all of that to herself. Whatever happened, it's something she hasn't shared yet."

I exhaled sharply, feeling a twinge of frustration mixed with understanding. Some things are meant to stay private. But damn, I couldn't help but wonder who this mysterious person was.

Before I could say anything else, Sylvia glanced at the clock, then at me. "Your fight's in two hours. You should rest. Prepare yourself."

I nodded, appreciating her thoughtfulness. "Thanks again, Sylvia, for convincing Alina. I'll take it from here."

She gave me a small smile. "Good luck, Levi. And remember—don't underestimate her."

With a final nod, I turned and left the guild, stepping out into the cool air.

The sky above was beautiful, the sun slowly dipping behind the horizon, casting golden hues across the town. I looked up at it, breathing in the crisp air as I took a moment to collect my thoughts.

This is it.

It was going to be the hardest fight of my life. I was up against the Sword Saint of Technique, Alina—the woman known for her Heavenly Stance, a stance that no one had ever been able to overcome. Her techniques were precise, lethal, and calculated. I'd need everything I had to match her in the arena.

But then again...

Who am I kidding?

I grinned to myself, my ego already kicking into high gear. I'm Levi, the Sword Saint of God-Speed. I've been in worse fights, faced worse odds, and come out on top every single time.

Hell, I even took down a dragon once. A real dragon. And what did it get me? Glory. Fame. A ridiculous amount of admiration. Not that I'm complaining, of course. I earned it all. Every single bit.

Now I'm about to take on Alina. The one who's never been defeated, never shown weakness in a fight. But you know what? I'm the strongest.

I'm not worried. She can have all her fancy stances, her perfect technique, and her cold, calculating mind. Because when it comes down to it, there's one thing that separates me from her...

I'm stronger.

I'm not afraid of anyone or anything. I'll smash through whatever walls she throws at me. And when it's all over, it'll be my name they remember.

I cracked my neck and stretched, rolling my shoulders. Let's go, Alina. You're about to learn what happens when you try to take down Levi.

While Levi was busy preparing for the fight, far from the bustling guild and the impending battle, Alina stood alone on a distant bridge, gazing up at the sky.

The expanse of blue stretched endlessly above her, the clouds drifting lazily, as if they, too, were lost in their own thoughts. Her expression was blank, empty even, yet there was a subtle softness in her gaze as she looked at the sky.

For the first time in a long while, Alina allowed a genuine smile to form on her lips. It wasn't much, just a brief tug of her mouth, but it carried a warmth that had long been absent from her usual stoic face.

And then, in a voice barely above a whisper, she spoke to herself, the words laced with a quiet, newfound hope. "At last... it's time to finally meet you."

As the words left her lips, memories of him flooded her mind. She could still hear his voice, clear and steady, as though it had never left her. "You are not worthless. You are not a slave to anyone or anything. The future isn't something that is handed to you, Alina. It's something you take, something you write for yourself."

A gentle smile tugged at the corners of her mouth, her heart tightening in a mixture of warmth and longing. His words—always so sure, so unyielding—had been her anchor through the pain of her past. In her darkest moments, they were what had kept her from breaking.

His voice echoed in her mind again, like a heartbeat that never wavered. "Alina, I trust you. I believe in you. One day, you'll become someone I'll look up to. Your strength, your resolve—they'll take you places you never imagined."

Her smile deepened as she remembered him. His unwavering belief in her, when even she couldn't believe in herself. He had never faltered in his faith, and for the first time, Alina allowed herself to truly believe those words.

"You think so?" she murmured to herself, her lips curling into a soft, nostalgic smile. A quiet laugh escaped her, one that felt almost foreign, yet comforting. "You can never look up to me. I'll always be the one looking up to you."

She lingered on the memory of his kindness, but it was quickly replaced by the weight of what was ahead. The fight.

The upcoming battle against Levi. The Sword Saint of God-Speed. A battle that would test everything she had learned, everything she had fought for.

Her heart quickened at the thought. This wasn't just another duel—it was the culmination of everything she had been working toward. It was a chance to prove to herself, to him, that she was ready. Ready to stand tall, to fight for the future she had promised herself.

Her gaze hardened, the softness in her eyes fading as her focus sharpened. In two hours, I face Levi. I won't let anything stand in my way.

A breeze tugged at her hair as she stood, still, her body rigid with resolve. She could almost feel him beside her, his unwavering confidence, as though his presence was still a part of her.

"I'll show him. I'll show them all," she whispered to herself, the words carrying a strength she hadn't felt before.

Alina's hand tightened into a fist at her side, her chest swelling with the surge of determination. I'll find you, my savior... I'll show you how much I've changed just so... just as you saw the potential in me.

Her smile, though faint, remained. And with it, a quiet but unshakeable certainty. She would prove herself, not just for her past, but for the man who had believed in her when no one else did.

Zain's Perspective:

I walked past the guild office of Levinton, my mind weighed down with a constant stream of thoughts. I had just finished meeting with some of the town's leaders, and now I couldn't shake the worry gnawing at me. Was Levi successful in convincing Requiem to help us? Would he manage to bring allies we so desperately need?

As I made my way through the streets of the town, I watched the town's folks bustle about their daily tasks, their laughter, their routine. Some children were playing near the market, their innocent joy a stark contrast to the growing tension I felt in the pit of my stomach.

But I couldn't afford to get lost in the simple sights and sounds. The swarm... It was coming. The grotesques, those monstrous, vile creatures, were not going to wait. If we didn't prepare now, the town, the people I had sworn to protect, might not survive.

I paused for a moment as the familiar smell of freshly baked bread wafted through the air. The bakery was bustling with its usual customers, exchanging coins for loaves of bread and cakes. I could hear the chatter of merchants nearby, the familiar hum of Levinton's heart beating in the distance.

But I couldn't focus on that. My thoughts kept returning to the swarm and whether we had enough time. Would Levi's plan with Requiem succeed, or were we running out of options?

That's when I saw him.

Walking down the street, just past the market square, a man moved through the crowd like he owned the place. He wasn't from around here—there was something... foreign about him.

Red hair, almost unnatural in its brightness, and piercing yellow eyes that seemed to scan everything. He had an aura about him, an unmistakable presence that immediately caught my attention. He wasn't someone to be ignored. No, this man was someone worth paying attention to.

And then I noticed it—two long legendary swords hanging from his back. The unmistakable sign of a Sword Saint.

It was him. Xander.

The Sword Saint of Mastery. A man whose reputation was as large as the power he wielded. He had always been a bit of a mystery to me—his lazy genius attitude often made him seem aloof, but no one could deny his skill.

If the stories were true, Xander could take on almost anyone in a fight with barely any effort.

He strolled past me like he was walking in the park, his gaze casual as he examined the town. His expression was half-lidded, a lazy smile playing on his lips as he approached me.

"Yooo," he said, his voice low and casual, "this is Levi's town, right?"

I blinked, a bit taken aback by his complete nonchalance. "Yeah, it is," I replied, a bit wary. I knew Xander had a reputation, but it was hard to get a read on the guy. "What brings you here?"

He yawned, stretching his arms as if he didn't have a care in the world. "Heard there's a swarm of grotesques coming through. Figured I'd show up and help out."

I stared at him, momentarily stunned. "You... came here for the swarm?"

He nodded lazily. "Yeah, got a letter from Levi." He shrugged as if the whole situation didn't deserve more than a passing thought. "Said you guys could use a hand, so here I am."

I couldn't hide my shock. "You came all the way here just for that?"

Xander gave me a nonchalant grin, the lazy brilliance of it almost irritating. "What can I say? I don't have anything better to do. Besides, I've been looking for a good fight." He seemed to lose interest in me for a second, eyes trailing off to the horizon as if the conversation had already been decided.

I was trying to process his words, still grappling with the fact that Xander, of all people, was standing right in front of me. A man who could walk into any battle, no questions asked, and emerge victorious without even breaking a sweat.

"So you're really just... here to fight?" I asked, trying to make sense of it.

Xander gave me a bored look, then raised a hand, gesturing carelessly. "Yeah, yeah. No big deal. I mean, I don't know if it's gonna be worth my time, but I'll give it a shot. Looks like things are about to get interesting." He grinned at me like he was looking forward to something—something far beyond the swarm or the town.

I felt my nerves stir, an uneasy tension creeping up my spine. This was no simple adventurer. Xander was a force in his own right, and now he was here, joining forces with Levi in this last-ditch effort to defend Levinton.

I shook my head, still trying to wrap my mind around the situation. But just as I was about to respond, Xander's eyes flicked toward the horizon, and his casual demeanor shifted ever so slightly.

"Anyway," he said, straightening up, "you might wanna hurry up. The swarm's getting closer, and I'm not here to babysit. If you're gonna stand around, I'll go ahead and find them myself."

I hesitated, looking at the man before me—this lazy genius who had come to our aid, seemingly without a care in the world. But his words were clear, and that ominous feeling only intensified.

And then, as if the universe itself decided to give me one last push, I heard it—a rumbling, distant sound. A low, throbbing tremor that set the ground beneath my feet vibrating.

The swarm was closing in faster than I had hoped.

"Looks like it's time," Xander said, cracking his neck with a nonchalant smile. "Let's go, Zain. I've been waiting for this."

I didn't need any more encouragement. As we turned to head toward the town's defenses, the feeling of dread hung heavy in the air, but so did something else—something more dangerous.

A presence. The swarm wasn't the only thing we had to fear.

As we walked, my mind raced. Something was off, and I couldn't shake the feeling that this fight would be far more complicated than we thought.

But before I could process the thought any further, a figure appeared in front of us, a silhouette in the distance—a shape I knew all too well.