Chapter 41: The Palace

Lord Reyes's face paled as Xavier's fiery gaze bore into him. Trembling, he motioned to his lackey. "Release her… now!"

The man holding Xavier's mother hesitated for a moment but ultimately obeyed, untying her bindings and stepping aside. Xavier rushed forward, catching her in his arms as she stumbled into his embrace.

"Mother," Xavier whispered, his voice trembling with a mix of relief and guilt.

Her frail hands cupped his face. "Xavier… my brave son."

The crowd fell silent as they witnessed the tender reunion. For a moment, the arena—soaked in the tension and blood of battle—felt at peace.

As Xavier held his mother tightly, a wave of sadness washed over him. How could he have let himself get so distracted by tournaments and cultivation, forgetting to ensure her safety? The thought haunted him, but her presence now reminded him of what truly mattered.

"I'm sorry," Xavier murmured. "I should've been there for you sooner."

She smiled weakly. "You've done more than I could've ever asked for. You've become strong… a man your father would've been proud of."

The warmth of their embrace seemed to ripple through the arena. Every woman in attendance, from young disciples to seasoned elders, found themselves envious of Xavier's mother. They wished, if only for a moment, that they could be the one held by such a powerful yet caring warrior.

As they spoke, Xavier reached into his pouch, pulling out a gleaming stash of silver coins—one million in total. The sheer size of the fortune left the crowd stunned.

"Take this," Xavier said, handing the coins to his mother. "This is for you, to ensure you're safe and cared for. Buy a home, hire guards, live comfortably. I'll visit you as often as I can."

His mother hesitated, her eyes wide. "This is too much—"

"Nothing is too much for you," Xavier interrupted. "Please, just take it."

Tears welled in her eyes as she accepted the pouch, clutching it to her chest. "You're a blessing, my son."

As the heartfelt reunion concluded, murmurs began to spread through the crowd. The attention now shifted back to Xavier, the warrior who had slain both Alexander and Elder Cross.

One by one, elders and envoys from various sects, clans, and academies began to approach Xavier. Each carried with them an air of importance, their robes bearing the insignias of powerful organizations.

The eldest among them, a dignified man with a flowing silver beard, stepped forward first. "Young man," he began, his voice resonant and authoritative, "your talents are undeniable. I am Elder Mori of the Celestial Spirit Academy. We are preparing for the upcoming Battle of the Realms, where only the youngest and brightest warriors compete on a grand stage. You would be an invaluable addition to our team."

Another elder, a woman clad in fiery red robes, quickly interjected. "Do not listen to him! I am Elder Helena of the Blazing Phoenix Sect. Join us, and we will hone your fire arts to perfection."

The offers continued to pour in, each elder vying for Xavier's attention. Jessica, Liana, and the rest of Xavier's friends stood to the side, watching with a mix of pride and awe.

Xavier raised a hand, silencing the eager elders. "I'm honored by your offers," he said, his tone respectful yet firm. "But I need time to consider. My first priority is ensuring my mother's safety and spending time with my loved ones. When I'm ready, I'll give you my answer."

The elders exchanged glances, some nodding in understanding while others seemed impatient.

"Very well," Elder Mori said. "But do not take too long. The Battle of the Realms awaits, and the clock is ticking."

As the elders dispersed, Xavier turned to his friends and Jessica, who all beamed with pride. His mother, standing by his side, held his arm tightly, as if afraid to let him go again.

The entire arena fell silent as Xavier, the warrior who had dominated the tournament and faced challenges no one else dared, knelt before Lord Cedric. His voice, though steady, carried the weight of exhaustion.

"Master," Xavier began, his head bowed low, "though I am your disciple, I seek your wisdom. I do not wish to choose my path blindly. Which faction should I represent moving forward?"

The crowd, already in awe of Xavier's prowess, now saw another side of him: humility and trust in his mentor. Murmurs rippled through the onlookers as they realized just how much Xavier had endured. The fierce battles, the emotional reunion with his mother, and the overwhelming offers from the factions had all taken their toll.

Jessica, Liana, and Xavier's friends exchanged worried glances. His exhaustion was evident not only in his voice but in the way his shoulders sagged and his usually radiant aura dimmed slightly. Even so, Xavier's resolve shone through, a testament to his character.

Lord Cedric, who had been silently observing, stepped forward. His eyes, filled with both pride and concern, scanned his disciple. The elder raised a hand, signaling for silence from the crowd.

"Xavier," Cedric began, his voice firm yet compassionate, "your humility and loyalty are commendable. Few would kneel before their master after achieving such feats." He placed a reassuring hand on Xavier's shoulder, lifting him gently to his feet.

"I cannot make this decision for you, my disciple. The path you choose must resonate with your spirit and your destiny. However, I can offer guidance." Cedric turned to address the gathered elders and the audience. "Xavier York has proven himself to be a warrior of great potential and heart. To those seeking his allegiance: remember that it is not just strength that defines him, but his loyalty, compassion, and resolve."

He turned back to Xavier. "Take time to rest and reflect. Speak with your friends, your loved ones, and your mother. The right choice will come to you when the time is right."

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, their respect for both Xavier and Lord Cedric growing tenfold. They saw Xavier not just as a warrior but as a person of depth and character, someone worthy of admiration beyond his strength.

Xavier nodded, his voice quiet but resolute. "Thank you, Master. I will take your advice to heart."

As the elders began to disperse, Jessica stepped forward, taking Xavier's hand. "You've done enough for today, love. Let's get you some rest."

Liana, standing nearby, added with a teasing smile, "You're making the rest of us look bad, you know. Even legends need to sleep."

Felix, Mara, and Eddie joined in, surrounding Xavier in a show of support. Together, they helped him down from the arena, shielding him from the overwhelming attention of the crowd.

As they walked, Xavier glanced at his mother, who smiled warmly at him. He felt a renewed sense of purpose—not just for himself but for those who believed in him. Whatever path he chose, he knew he wouldn't walk it alone.

As the crowd slowly dispersed, whispers of Xavier's triumph still echoed through the arena. His friends had already said their goodbyes, but Jessica and Liana remained by his side, supporting him as they made their way toward the grand structure that now belonged to him: his newly acquired palace, a reward befitting an inner core disciple.

The path was lined with lanterns glowing softly in the night, casting a warm and serene light. The three walked in silence for a moment, Xavier leaning slightly on Jessica and Liana for support. His exhaustion was evident, though he tried to mask it with a weak smile.

"You don't have to play strong with us," Jessica said softly, tightening her grip on his arm. "You've done enough today, Xavier. Let us take care of you."

Liana nodded, her voice quieter but no less supportive. "She's right. Rest. You've earned it a hundred times over."

As they approached the palace, its grandeur became clear. The building stood tall and proud, its architecture a harmonious blend of elegant curves and imposing strength. Carved from shimmering white stone that seemed to glow under the moonlight, it was surrounded by lush gardens filled with exotic flowers that released a soothing fragrance. A crystalline stream ran through the grounds, reflecting the light of the stars.

The massive double doors, etched with intricate patterns of dragons and flames, swung open as the trio approached. Inside, the palace was even more breathtaking. The grand hall featured polished marble floors, high vaulted ceilings, and walls adorned with tapestries depicting legendary battles and serene landscapes. A soft golden light bathed the interior, creating an atmosphere of both luxury and warmth.

Xavier stopped just inside the entrance, taking in the sight with a mix of awe and humility. "This… this is too much," he muttered, shaking his head.

Jessica smirked, guiding him further in. "Nonsense. After what you've been through, it's the least you deserve."

Liana couldn't help but agree, her eyes sparkling as she looked around. "If anything, this palace suits you, Xavier. It's strong, majestic, and full of potential—just like you."

They led him up a grand staircase to his personal quarters, which were equally impressive. A spacious room with a massive bed draped in silken sheets, a sitting area with plush chairs, and an adjoining balcony offering a breathtaking view of the academy and surrounding mountains.

Liana opened the doors to a luxurious bath chamber, where steaming water filled an ornate sunken tub. The scent of calming herbs lingered in the air, inviting relaxation.

Jessica turned to Xavier with a teasing smile. "Now, no more protests. You're going to bathe, rest, and let us handle things for a while."

Liana added with a playful grin, "Consider this our way of repaying you for always carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders."

Xavier chuckled softly, touched by their care. "Thank you, both of you. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Xavier sat in the steaming bath, his body relaxing for the first time in what felt like weeks. The warm water soothed his sore muscles, but the presence of Jessica and Liana nearby kept him on edge. He couldn't help but blush furiously as Jessica and Liana helped him settle in, their graceful movements making him feel both flustered and grateful.

"Relax, Xavier," Jessica said with a teasing smirk, noticing his reddened face. "You've faced mystic warriors, defeated Alexander, and conquered the spiritual lake, yet a simple bath has you panicking?"

Xavier chuckled nervously, sinking deeper into the water to hide his embarrassment.

Liana, however, couldn't help but pause for a moment, her eyes lingering on Xavier as he adjusted himself in the tub. A small blush crept across her cheeks as she quickly turned away, muttering something about needing fresh air. Jessica noticed and raised an eyebrow, giving Liana a pointed look.

"Liana," Jessica said with mock sternness, "don't you have somewhere else to be?"

Flustered, Liana stammered, "Y-Yes, of course! I'll… I'll see you both later." Her face crimson, she bolted out of the room, leaving Jessica shaking her head in amusement.

"Honestly," Jessica murmured with a smirk, "she's not very subtle, is she?"

Once they were alone, Jessica joined Xavier in the bath, slipping into the warm water beside him with practiced ease. She poured two glasses of wine from a nearby bottle and handed one to him.

"To you," she said, raising her glass. "For being brave, strong, and everything I could ask for."

Xavier clinked his glass with hers, feeling his nerves begin to settle as he took a sip. "And to you, for always supporting me."

As the two relaxed, Jessica leaned her head on Xavier's shoulder, her voice soft. "So, what's the plan now, Xavier? The elders want you to pick a faction. The Battle of the Realms is looming. Have you decided who you'll align yourself with?"

Xavier sighed, swirling the wine in his glass. "I haven't. Every faction has its strengths, but none feel like the right fit yet. Lord Cedric told me to take my time, but it feels like every choice could shape my future—or destroy it."

Jessica placed a gentle hand on his chest. "You don't have to decide alone, you know. We're all here for you—me, your friends, even Liana, no matter how shy she acts. Talk to us, weigh your options. But no matter what you choose, I'll stand by you."