Chapter 56: a alliance

Xavier turned as the door creaked open, revealing King Blaine, Sarah, and Tonya entering the room. His imposing figure, shirtless and radiating an almost divine aura, caught their attention immediately. The king's eyes briefly widened in admiration of Xavier's transformation before he composed himself.

"Glad to see you've finally awakened," King Blaine said with a smile, holding out a spiritual ring. "Here are your winnings, as promised—100 million silver coins. Consider it a token of both your skill and determination."

Xavier stepped forward, his movements fluid and commanding. Accepting the ring with a nod, he said, "Thank you, Your Majesty. This will go a long way in aiding my clan."

As the transaction completed, Xavier noticed Sarah's lingering gaze. Her cheeks flushed, her eyes trailing over his taller and more muscular frame. The streaks of crimson and silver in his hair, combined with the raw power radiating from him, seemed to leave her momentarily speechless.

"I didn't know you could become even more handsome," Sarah blurted out, her voice almost a whisper but loud enough to be heard. Realizing what she had said, her face turned crimson, and she quickly covered her mouth in embarrassment.

Tonya stifled a giggle, and King Blaine raised an amused brow, his lips twitching into a faint smile. "It seems my daughter speaks her mind freely, Xavier," the king said, clearly enjoying the moment.

Xavier gave a faint chuckle, his expression calm but warm. "I appreciate the compliment, Lady Sarah," he said, his deep voice carrying an air of humility. "Though I assure you, my focus remains on mastering my abilities and honoring the responsibilities I carry."

Sarah's blush deepened, and Tonya leaned closer to her, whispering something that made her fidget.

The king cleared his throat, shifting the conversation. "Now, Xavier, I'd like to discuss something important regarding your future, if you're ready."

Xavier's gaze sharpened slightly, his stance steady. "I'm listening, Your Majesty."

"Xavier" king Blaine stated, "my daughter asked me if she could be your disciple. Though I am surprised someone so young has disciples after your display of strength I can see why." 

"Yes" Xavier murmured "but under one condition if I may propose a marriage arrangement between my 15 year old disciple and your daughter Tonya." Xavier said with eagerness in his voice. 

King Blaine unsure how to respond took a moment before asking. "would this mean your soul clans alliance and aid if we shall need it."

Xavier paused, thinking carefully before responding. "If I were to take Tonya as my disciple, it would indeed strengthen our bond. As for the proposal, if you and Tonya are in agreement, then I will accept. As for the Soul Clan's support, yes, I would provide assistance in times of need, as we have always been loyal to those we form bonds with."

Tonya smiled widely, her eyes glowing with excitement, though her heart raced a little at the formality of the conversation. King Blaine seemed to be weighing the offer, considering the implications it would have on his own clan and the possible alliance between their two families.

After a brief silence, King Blaine nodded, clearly pleased with Xavier's terms. "Very well, Lord Xavier, I accept your proposal. Let us seal this alliance with the promise of mutual support."

Tonya stepped forward, her smile brightening even more, as she knelt before Xavier, waiting for his response. "I will be honored to be your disciple, Master," she said, her voice both eager and respectful.

As Xavier made his final preparations, gathering his belongings and securing his spiritual artifacts, he exchanged a few more words with King Blaine and Sarah. The conversation was brief, but there was a mutual understanding of the alliance forged between their families.

"Take care, Lord Xavier," King Blaine said with a nod, his demeanor regal yet respectful. "May your path be as prosperous as your strength."

Sarah smiled warmly, her earlier teasing demeanor now replaced with a sense of admiration. "I look forward to seeing how you will grow, Xavier," she said softly, though there was an unmistakable spark in her eyes.

Xavier returned the gestures with a slight bow. "Thank you, both. It has been an honor. I will ensure that our bond remains strong."

After the farewells, Xavier grabbed Tonya, who was still filled with excitement about the new journey ahead. With a final glance back at the palace, Xavier activated his flight technique, lifting into the air with Tonya in tow. The wind whipped through their hair as they soared through the skies, heading back toward the academy.

Tonya clung to him, wide-eyed with wonder at the speed and power of Xavier's flight, her heart pounding with a mix of awe and anticipation. Xavier kept his focus ahead, determined to return to the academy and continue shaping both his and his disciples' futures. The academy was waiting, and so was the future.