The Crest of Ruin

Lucien stood tall amidst the fading dust, blood drying on his cheek, eyes gleaming violet like tempered amethyst. His opponent, Kallis Derroth, lay on the stone floor—unconscious.

The announcement echoed through the entire combat hall.

"Winner—Lucien Velentis!"

The crowd erupted—cheers, gasps, and disbelief clashing all at once.

"Did he just… win against Kallis?"

"That final burst... what spell was that?!"

"He didn't even chant. That's advanced control!"

From the spectator stands, Talven Rourke cracked his knuckles and laughed loudly.

"Damn, that was awesome. If he fights me again, I'm going full flame!"

He gripped his staff strongly and smirked. "Gotta give him credit. That final spell was... spicy it makes me just itch all over my body to burn everything...hahaha."

His personal assistant sighed and denied him saying "Young master if you did that you will be punished severly"

Talven excitedly said haha...I was just kidding I just need to fight, I'll gonna get stronger and defeat him"

On the other side, Lysandra Merren—arms crossed, half-asleep—yawned quietly. She gave a faint, approving nod, eyes half-lidded but shimmering.

"Hmph. I'd have dodged that… maybe."

Down below, Duke Kael Velentis stood from his elevated seat.

His eyes, cool and imperial, gazed down at his son.

For the first time in years—his lips curled into a subtle smile.Not wide. Not loud. But real.

He looked... proud.

Watching the subtle smile on duke face Ellis who was standing beside him also gave a genuene smile as he was happy seeing how proud father he is and somewhat funny too.

He whispered to Kael Velentis," My lord...you look rather proud watching your son like this in a joking tone"

What?....I---It's not that it's normal for a heir of Velentis to achieve that isn't it. I am just satisfied he didn't shame me..hmph"

Ellis laughed in a teasing tone while duke ignored her feeling slightly embarassed

On the noble side, Lady Ceyla Drell, dressed neatly in icy blues, had her hands over her chest, blushing furiously.

The crowd was still buzzing when Ceyla Drell rushed forward, practically pushing aside a poor knight who tried to offer Lucien water.

"My Lord Lucien!" she called, her voice dripping with theatrical desperation.

Lucien turned slightly, internally sighing.No. Not now. Please no—

Ceyla stopped barely inches away from him, clasping her hands together like she was in a fairytale dream.

"You were so… magnificent, my lord! When you cast that spell—my heart skipped not one, but three beats! I thought I was going to faint right there in the stands…"

Lucien blinked.Maybe you should've.

She leaned in dramatically, eyes wide.

"Your holy face after battle… bathed in dust and glory… You looked like a fallen angel reclaiming the heavens."

Lucien: "…I am literally...fuck when she'll go."

She giggled, completely ignoring his deadpan.

"You know, after a fight like that… I can't help but think…""Perhaps it's finally time you get married.""Ahem—a certain someone is still available, unmarried,unclaimed and eternally devoted to you....hehehe."

Lucien slowly turned his head, eyes narrowing.

"Do you mean yourself?"

Ceyla gasped—genuinely offended.

"My lord! Don't say it so bluntly! At least pretend I'm not completely shameless!"

Lucien sighed.

Lucien's brain short-circuited for a full second.

Before he could respond, she placed her hand dramatically over her heart.

"Please, accept this token of my admiration—"

She pulled out… a handkerchief embroidered with "Lady Lucien" in gold thread.

Lucien just turned around.

"Nope."

"My lord! Wait—! I stitched it with love! And blood. Okay, maybe just a needle prick, but it counts!"

Lucien walked faster.

"I've fought monsters with less persistence."

Behind him, Ceyla pouted and placed the handkerchief on a nearby statue.

"One day… he will treasure it."

Kael raised his hand, and the room fell silent.

"Let it be known—these four contenders," he gestured at the winners, "will represent House Velentis at the upcoming Imperial Capital's Talent Assembly."

Gasps spread like wildfire.

"The four of you shall be allowed to enter the Primary Treasury of House Velentis and each claim one martial art or one artifact of your choosing."

He paused for effect.

"Lucien Velentis, for placing first—shall be allowed to choose both."

Even Talven's grin faltered slightly.

Lucien narrowed his eyes slightly, hiding the storm behind calm. The treasury...

As one, the four stepped forward and bowed deeply.

"Thank you, Your Grace."

Kael nodded again.

"One last thing…"

The hall stilled.

"Tonight, there will be a banquet in honor of the victors. All vassal lords, heirs, and honored guests are expected to attend."

He waved his hand.

"This Assembly is dismissed."

As nobles began dispersing, whispers and footsteps filled the air, the four victors exchanged looks. Talven gave Lucien a thumbs-up. Ceyla attempted a wink and failed miserably. Lysandra was already gone—probably asleep somewhere.

Lucien turned silently, walking back toward his room.

But deep in his palm, his fingers curled faintly.

He could feel it again.

That… pulse.

The artifact is reacting again.