Message III

"But I knew that convincing Barthusa to attend wouldn't be easy," Lefazio said, a hint of frustration in his voice.

"Are you sure about whatever His Highness aimed, Arkan?"

"Without a doubt," replied the young man unhesitantly. His azure gaze pierced Lefazio's black-brown irises. That bald-in-the-middle old man knew exactly what lies diplomatically between Venelutio and Paramartha.

Arkan continued, "And what about Adelle? It's been three years since I've seen her. I think it's time to pay her a visit," he said with a seemingly friendly tone. However, his true intentions were far from kind, as he was already thinking of ways to punish her.

"I couldn't conceive whether she missed her master or not. But she is healthy and energetic as always."

Arkan could not help but hear Lefazio's tone containing a bit of pride. He couldn't deny it, though. "I guess that Lektia sure learned a lot from you."

Being Lektia in nature captured Arkan's attention. But he couldn't help her draw her full potential, unlike what Lefazio did in all these three years. She awakened another two Aspects just within that time frame, even though Arkan knew her Lektia nature from the very start of eleven years ago when the little Adelle boarded his airship during rescue.

"Beside that, having another Necrolyte that walks among the living sent a chill down my spine, old man. That's the main reason you're here, isn't it?"

"Yes, yes. I was thinking of asking for your help." Lefazio paused for a brief moment, turning back to face the snow-coated town of Archadia behind him.

"What is it?" Arkan moved to face the same direction beside him.

"I need someone to watch over Ruvian."

"Why bother to watch over him when I could take him down? In its human form, of course. What's your intention?"

"I've previously mentioned in the sent message that the Necrolyte inside that boy is currently laid dormant. In this state, he is nothing more than an Elementalist who had his power split."

"No need to go back on all the details. All the provocation methods that were supposed to work, all failed."

Lefazio chuckled, his tone still containing that hint of pride. "Of course not, my dear Arkan. That's precisely why it's so valuable. Imagine the advancements we could make in understanding and countering the Necrolytes with a live specimen like that."

"Wait, are you insane?!" Arkan exclaimed, his jaw dropping at Lefazio's words. "Have you forgotten what a single Necrolyte can do? We can't risk that kind of power to go awry!"

"Of course, no. Not even a slightest. That's why a precautionary method must be studied. For the present and future generation. If not now, who will? This is a golden opportunity."

"I—"

Arkan was about to argue against Lefazio's idea, but then he clenched his teeth and remained silent. He knew that Lefazio was too passionate about his research to be swayed by anyone else's opinion. It was futile to try and change his mind.

Lefazio smiled. "The boy won't come for a second time. The risk is lower than a wild Necrolyte in the Nethereal."

The young man closed his eyes, giving Lefazio a long sigh. "Fine, but I want you to convince Barthusa about meeting up with His Majesty Diolus."

"The deal is on. And don't vex too much about Ruvian. I assure you that he is just homesick. It's funny that he disguised his real name to Adelle at that time. He's keeping a low profile. In the meantime, I'll be assisting the headmaster of the laboratory facility of Troya finishing the research preparation. It might take some months."

Arkan finally nodded. "I'll be visiting Alcei to have a clearer goal about the research."

"The Grandmagus of Venelutio is always welcome."

"Then what about Adelle? That ungrateful brat makes my blood boil. She wouldn't dare to run away unless she had tempered with the Rune of Obedience. You sure teach her a lot of things, eh, gramps?"

"Sheesh, it's part of her own growth. I won't lecture you about parenting here. So, you do you. I had the tiniest hint that she still considers you as her foster father, hahaha."

"Then it's time for the father to be upset about his daughter's misbehavior."

Lefazio laughed faintly as he headed back towards the town. "Oh, and don't forget about the meat at tomorrow's feast. I brought elves with me."

"All good. Let's hope they are not picky about the vegetables."

"Haha. Alright, see you soon. It's getting cold here." Lefazio continued on his walk, leaving Arkan, who decided to stay put. The young man was just thumbing up. He stayed silent, watching Lefazio leave footprints above the snowy ground.

"So, everything is still according to plans?" Another man's voice abruptly came in. But Arkan didn't bother to turn around.

"Yes, Your Highness. Nothing in particular obstructs our goal."

"Well done. I'm pleased. You have shown me so far nothing but loyalty."

That 'person' who wears all dark robes finally caught in Arkan's sight, striding from behind him. The so-called 'Your Highness' then walked towards the town while laughing hysterically. His foot penetrated through the snow layer, but this time, it did not leave even a single footprint.

The young blonde-haired man then followed. Acting as if he didn't see anyone.

"Professor!" Lefazio then was greeted by two of his students. Nemeris the teenage elf and Viletia the fine-looking woman with scar on her face.

"Yes. How's your trip to this snowy town?" asked him with a smile.

Nemeris' emerald irises widened as he looked at his master. "It may be cold, but it's so exciting. Ms. Viletia showed me around and accompanied me to buy this warming scarf, hehe." He rubbed the said clothing to his fair cheek.

Lefazio gave a small grunt of approval and patted Nemeris' head. He then faced the woman beside that teenage elf. "Viletia, the preparation for tomorrow's event has been arranged by Arkan."

"Understood, Master. I'll coordinate the arrangement with our group as well. I'm taking my leave to see Arkan then."

"Reliable and efficient as always. Don't forget to come back for dinner with us," he teased her.

The women smirked. She had other ideas about dinner. But Lefazio seemed to be catching up. "Alright, please excuse me."

"By the way, may I ask something about Adelle, Professor?" Lefazio then faced Nemeris with a raised eyebrow.

"About her absence today?"

"Umm, yes, Professor. Is she sick? It's the first time I see her not attending a trip like this."

"Yes, yes. She would usually love it. Safe to say that she is in her rebellious age."