Chapter 495: A Kingdom in the Shadows, A Love Cursed by Fire

Noelle's death sent shockwaves through Valemont. The elite university shut down for three days. Students wore black, and whispers followed Jayden wherever he went.

Except… she wasn't really dead.

Tielen, the underworld empress disguised as a professor, had intercepted the bullet seconds before it struck Noelle's heart. But they faked her death—only those closest to Jayden knew the truth.

Tielen (sternly):

"Enemies are watching. Let them believe she's gone. It gives us the edge."

Jayden:

"I'll play along. But if she gets hurt again… the world burns."

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Meanwhile in Stormheath, a hidden mountainous city between nations where ancient bloodlines ruled from shadows, Ochieng was summoned by the enigmatic House of Aravelle.

A queen from the shadows—Lady Meliora (age 37)—offered him marriage to her daughter Cassara Aravelle.

Cassara was ethereal.

Age: 21

Eyes: Icy violet, hypnotic

Hair: Flowing auburn curls

Profession: Bioengineer by day, assassin by night

Flaw: Addicted to controlling men through charm

Background: Rumored to be half-immortal—daughter of a witch-queen and an exiled god.

Cassara (sipping wine):

"Marry me, and I'll crown you king of every town you've ever been insulted in."

Ochieng (deadpan):

"What happens if I say no?"

Cassara (smiling sweetly):

"Then I'll burn your past. Starting with everyone you've ever loved."

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A new elite town—Niorhaven—was revealed, filled with families richer than any previously known. The Blackdove Dynasty hosted a masquerade that attracted elites from across the globe.

At the heart of this town was Sylvain Blackdove, age 24:

CEO of the youngest AI firm

Grey-blue eyes like glaciers

Arrogant, manipulative, seductive

Known for stealing lovers, investors, and souls

He met Velencia LaRue at the party and declared her his muse.

Sylvain:

"I don't share. If you're seen with Jayden again, I'll buy the school and bury him under it."

Velencia (leaning close):

"Then you better start digging."

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Back in Valemont, Kael was entangled in a fake relationship with Liora Bellamy, a rising campus influencer hired by enemies to seduce and distract him.

What started as manipulation turned real—until Liora's older sister Evelyn returned.

Evelyn (to Liora):

"He's dangerous. He's not who he says he is."

Kael (to Liora):

"You knew this started as a lie. But did it ever become real for you?"

Liora (tears in her eyes):

"...You were the only real thing in my whole life."

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The global competition known as the Interworld Academic Games was announced. Students would compete in logic, combat, seduction, and espionage. The prize?

Control of The Silent City, a neutral zone of unlimited power and ancient resources.

Ochieng, Jayden, and Kael all qualified.

At the same time, an unexpected wedding was announced:

Maggy, Ochieng's long-lost childhood friend, was engaged to Prince Adrien of Lyselth, a royal playboy with hidden motives.

Maggy (to Ochieng, tears streaming):

"I waited… but you never came. And now I must protect my kingdom the only way I know."

Ochieng (jaw clenched):

"I will come now. Even if it means starting a war."

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