Seeing results and off to Silverine Islands

.

.

.

I couldn’t help but smile at her praise, feeling a bit of relief as she continued, “Given everything that’s happened recently, and considering these are for your friends, I’ll cut you some slack this time. Pay attention, I’ll handle the rest.”

The moment she said that her EXIRA surged, filling the room with a powerful presence. Unlike Mom’s overwhelming force, Aunt Nora’s EXIRA carried a quiet, commanding reverence, a strength that demanded respect.

“Lexi!”

Her voice snapped me back into concentration, and I quickly channeled my EXIRA to sharpen my focus.

The world around us seemed to blur, leaving only Aunt Nora and the items she was about to enchant.

“Aegis Sentientia, Praesidia Inimicus, Sana Corpus, Serenare Mentem!”

Aunt Nora’s soft voice echoed through the air as the energy around us converged, flowing towards the three pendants in front of her.

I watched closely, sensing the intent behind each word, each gesture, as she molded the enchantments with flawless precision, weaving them into the fabric of the items.

The glow around the items faded, leaving behind three pendants, radiating with immense power and purpose.

‘Damn... even with subpar materials, she managed to turn these into A-Rank items.’

Aunt Nora gestured towards the three pendants, a knowing smile playing on her lips.

"Go on, Lexi. Give them a look with your EXIRA. Let’s see if you can figure out their ranks."

I hesitated for a moment before stepping forward, extending my hand toward the nearest pendant. My EXIRA flared to life, wrapping around the item like a second skin.

‘ Fuu! ‘

Taking a deep breath I willed my mind and EXIRA to enter a pseudo-attune state, channeling my desire to appraise

ALEXIS's PROMISE [A- RANK]

ENCHANT :

Aegis Sentientia, Praesidia Inimicus, Sana Corpus, Serenare Mentem

Function:

Automatic Detection (Sentient Shield)

Regeneration (Healing Aura)

Calm Mind (Serenity Effect)

"Alexis's Promise and A-Rank, damn Aunt Nora, these are fantastic!"

I exclaimed, still reeling from the energy coursing through the artifacts. Each one practically pulsed with intent, as if alive with purpose.

Aunt Nora smirked, clearly enjoying my awe. "Well, years of trial and error tend to pay off, Lexi. But don’t let this get to your head – praise or not, you’ve still got plenty to learn. I'm not going easy on you next time."

I laughed, shaking my head.

"I wouldn’t dream of it. But seriously, these are next-level. How do you even come up with names for something like this? Do you just wing it on the spot or is there, like, a system? All the prototypes I made were like enchanted sticks, rock, metal not specified…"

She crossed her arms, her expression turning a little more serious as she explained.

"It’s not about 'winging it,' as you put it. When you’re enchanting an artifact, the name isn’t just a label - it’s tied to the intent and energy you pour into it. The moment you start channeling your EXIRA into the item, everything comes together. The name forms are based on your intent, the materials, and the enchantments. It’s almost like the artifact speaks to you."

I raised an eyebrow. "The artifact... speaks?"

Aunt Nora nodded, a knowing smile tugging at her lips.

"Not literally, of course. But the name reflects the essence of what you’ve created. The clarity of your intent shapes it. You might have a rough idea of what you want to call it, but as the enchantments bind, the artifact reveals its true name. It’s part of the crafting process. That’s why focus is so important - you can’t force it."

"Wow, that’s... intense." I glanced at the pendants, suddenly feeling a deeper connection to them.

"So, it’s like the artifact names itself based on what I put into it?"

‘Damn It’s like going even deeper than what I have been able to achieve using a pseudo-attuned state’

"Exactly," Aunt Nora replied, her eyes twinkling.

"It's a conversation between you and the craft. And trust me, the clearer your intent, the stronger the artifact becomes."

“Hmm, I’ll keep on practicing, I’m sure it will be easier with time”

“Indeed Lexi, any craft takes time and dedication to bring the items to life”, pausing slightly as she ruffled my hair.

“Now let’s go. It's dinner time and store this safely…”

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The dining hall was a grand room, as always, its polished wooden table gleaming under the soft candlelight. At the head of the table sat Artoria, my mother, her commanding presence impossible to ignore.

Will I have a similar presence down the line… King Alexis silent and cool… yeah to cringe

I shook my mind mentally cringed at my thoughts.

She was dressed in her usual regal attire, her eyes sharp yet softened by the warmth of family surrounding her. Aunt Nora sat on her right side, casually resting her chin on her hand, while I took my place on the left, opposite her.

Ari was already seated beside me, swinging her legs under the table with that mischievous grin she always wore when with us but outside she is more like a doll.

You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

Glad she made friends with Misha and Justin... Ugh, It’s difficult to imagine her antisocial actions will lead her in the future…Maybe I should bring them here sometime…

Across from her, Uncle Sebastian oversees the dinner proceedings with Layla, Aunt Nora’s daughter, by his side, serving dishes with careful precision. The room was filled with the pleasant clinking of silverware and soft chatter as Layla and Uncle Sebastian laid out the evening meal. The smell of roasted meats, fresh herbs, and warm bread filled the air. We ask for blessings from the earth before we eat and at this point, it has become a tradition and we finish the meal in silence. After my blunder with the pariah, I kept mum lest Mom have any thoughts of punishment.

Aunt Nora raised an eyebrow at the silence but there was a playful gleam in her eye. "If I didn’t keep an eye on you, Lexi, only god knows what mess you’d be into."

"True," I admitted with a laugh, " I’ve got a lot to live up to."

Layla appeared beside me, placing a plate of roasted vegetables in front of me.

She smiled brightly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Better listen to her, Lexi. Mom’s the best and I know, but she’s also the most stubborn. You won’t win an argument."

"Coming from the expert of stubbornness herself," Aunt Nora said, narrowing her eyes but laughing as she spoke. "You take after me too much."

"Is that a bad thing?" Layla shot back with a grin.

Arisa, who had been quietly listening until now, piped up with a grin of her own. "Well, if being stubborn gets you through Mom’s training, then I think Lexi could use a little more of that."

‘What I legit shuddered at the thought of mom’s training… Ari what was that you are supposed to be on my side.

Mom, who had remained silent until this point, looked up from her plate, a small smirk tugging at her lips.

"Stubbornness has its uses, but discipline will take you further. Lexi, how are you feeling? If you want we can squeeze some time for training before we leave for Silverine islands and you can sleep on the plane?" Her voice was calm, but the weight of her words was always there, even in the most casual conversations.

“No No! I’m fine we’ll be late and it’s important to keep appearances too”

I swallowed hastily, defending myself, glancing at her before setting down my fork.

" I’m starting to grasp more about EXIRA, but I still feel like there’s so much I don’t know. Aunt Nora’s lessons in crafting helped a lot though. It gave me another perspective on channeling power."

"Good," she nodded approvingly, her sharp eyes observing me. " Remember, mastery comes with patience and dedication. You’ll need both in the coming days."

I nodded, the weight of her words settling in my chest. No matter how light the atmosphere was, there was always that reminder - the challenges ahead were growing, and we were all preparing in our own ways.

"You know," Aunt Nora broke the slight tension, "if Lexi keeps up like this, we might just have to drag him into more crafting sessions. What do you think, Layla? Would you like something he crafts on his own"

Layla laughed, glancing at me and I’m sure I saw her face scrunched at the mention of my crafts.

"Ugh! Mom, you know how ugly he makes stuff "

I groaned “ C’mon what’s better fancy for increased efficiency. What wrong with them being simple in design” I defended but I knew my recent solo crafts were ugly beyond measure.

“Now, if everyone is finished, go rest up. We may have a few hours before leaving,” Mom said in absolute command, her voice cutting through the lighthearted chatter like a knife.

With that, the atmosphere shifted as everyone began to disperse. Layla and Aunt Nora exchanged a few more jokes as they gathered their plates, while Arisa shot me a playful glare before racing off to her room, no doubt to rummage through her belongings for the latest shiny trinkets to pack.

Uncle Sebastian gathered the leftover food, his movements as efficient as always, while Mom stood, surveying the room with an air of satisfaction. I lingered for a moment, watching my family move about, the comfort of shared moments settling in my chest.

“Hey, Lexi!” Aunt Nora called, glancing back at me. “Don’t take too long to pack. You’ll want to be ready for whatever awaits us!”

I nodded, a sense of excitement bubbling within me as I turned to head toward my room.

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As we soared through the sky in our private jet, the view of the Silverine Islands came into focus below.

The five smaller islands formed a circle around the largest ‘ Silvers island ’, creating a natural sanctuary that seemed to shimmer against the turquoise waters.

Each island was a stronghold for one of the five supreme houses: House Drakesier, House Vanreispell, House Celeste, House Sentina, House Zhao, and the center for House Silverine

I leaned closer to the window, the beauty of the islands captivating my gaze.

Damn, every time I see these islands they are breathtaking… I wish Ed and Alice would see the view with me…huu… if future I’ll bring them for sure

These islands were not just beautiful, they were a testament to resilience. Born from the ashes of battle with the calamity, they now stood as neutral lands, places where alliances could be forged and rivalries set aside, if only for a moment.

My thoughts drifted as I pondered the significance of this journey. Each house carried its history, its burdens, and its triumphs, interwoven like the threads of fate.

“Look at that!” Layla exclaimed, breaking my reverie. “Isn’t it breathtaking?”

I nodded, pulling my gaze away from the window.

“It really is. I can’t help but think of everything that’s happened here. All those battles and struggles, and now it’s a place for unity.”

“These islands are a reminder that even in the darkest times, there can be light and hope. But remember Lexi, every gathering comes with its own set of challenges,” she warned, her tone shifting slightly.

I took a deep breath, absorbing her words.

As the jet began its descent, the islands came closer into view, the details of Drakon Island becoming clearer. The moment the wheels touched down, I felt a familiar weight settle in my chest. This wasn’t just a casual visit – it was an international-level event. The World Gala happens every 3 years to celebrate unity and provide awards for the achievements made by pioneers.

I saw Mom donning her aura of The ABSOLUTE stepped out first, her EXIRA flaring in a quiet yet commanding display. The sheer force of it rolled off her in waves, a silent reminder of her royal stature. She led the way, her dark, flowing attire perfectly complementing the controlled power that radiated from her. Aunt Nora followed close behind, with me at her side, Her EXIRA flaring up in response, fully complimenting her title White Saintess. The moment we stepped onto the island, the atmosphere shifted.

Eyes were on us.

House Silverine had sent their heir to greet us, and even before she spoke, her presence was undeniable.

‘ It’s been a while since I saw her and damn her presence is strong… She is looking amazing too. Man I miss them too all with similar burdens all stuck to outshine expectations as heirs '

Levina Inge Silverine, with her sharp silver hair neatly tucked behind her ears and piercing silver eyes, stood at the foot of the stairs, waiting with a cold elegance that bordered on intimidating. Her rosy skin contrasted with the black, immaculately tailored suit she wore, every detail pristine, and her posture straight, precise.

There was no warmth in her expression – just the strict professionalism that came with her position.

"Welcome to Drakon Island, Lady Artoria Drakesier, and esteemed members of House Drakesier," Levina greeted us, her voice crisp and direct, with no excess pleasantries. "House Silverine is honored by your presence."

‘ Whoa, she just ignored my wave, Damn..’

‘Ouch,’ Layla just elbowed me, giving me a stare.

Mom nodded slightly, her expression regal yet unreadable, as she returned the greeting with the same level of formality.

"Thank you, Levina. The honor is ours to be received by House Silverine."

Levina’s gaze flicked over to me for a brief second, then to Aunt Nora, before returning to Mom.

"We have made all preparations for your stay. If there is anything you require, you need only ask."

‘Whaaa. She ignored me again…’

Her words were polite, but her tone suggested efficiency above all else, she wasn’t here for idle conversation. Her demeanor was exactly what I’d expected of House Silverine. They were known for their meticulous nature, everything done to perfection, no room for error or wasted time and I had hoped she learned a little bit of humanness.

Aunt Nora smiled, though shaking her head, she always reads me like an open book.

"Levi, always straight to the point. I must say, it's refreshing not to have to wade through endless pleasantries."

Levina’s lips quivered in the faintest hint of a smile at the mention of her nickname, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. "We Silverines prefer clarity in our dealings. It saves time."

I couldn’t help but be impressed by her. She carried herself with an unmistakable confidence, her movements precise and deliberate.

There was no excess, no wasted energy—everything about her was controlled, from the way she spoke to the way she held herself. It reminded me of the way Aunt Nora often said power didn’t need to shout and the comparison only seemed to embarrass me as I remembered my blunder with a certain old schemer.

I wonder if Levi had encountered him she would have had him arrested at first glance and interrogated later while Vic would have probably seen through his words.

"That we can agree on," Mom replied smoothly, her voice laced with the authority she wielded so effortlessly. "Clarity is indeed a valuable trait, especially when so many... uncertainties surround us."

Levina’s eyes flickered for a moment as if assessing the subtle weight behind Mom’s words, but she didn’t engage further in that line of conversation. Instead, she gestured toward the sleek, black vehicles waiting to take us to our quarters.

"Lead the way," Mom said, her tone neutral, but her EXIRA remained ever-present, keeping the aura of royalty strong and undeniable. As we walked, Levina moved gracefully ahead, her presence still that of someone in control but never overbearing.

Aunt Nora leaned over to me and whispered, "They really breed them stoic, don’t they? You could freeze meat with that glare."

‘Cough’ I choked at her crass words, damn Aunt Nora. In my mind it was fixed she was the savage out of all of us.

I stifled a grin. It was hard not to feel a bit of tension under Levina’s watchful eye, but Aunt Nora always knew how to keep things light. As we approached the cars, Levina turned sharply on her heel and addressed us one last time before we embarked.

"I trust your journey was smooth?" she asked, though her voice suggested she had already assumed as much. Small talk was clearly not her forte.

"It was," Mom answered, stepping into the vehicle with the grace of someone who never let her guard down. "Though I imagine things will get far more interesting from here."

Levina’s gaze lingered on Mom for a fraction longer than necessary, as if measuring her words. "Interesting is one way to put it," she responded coolly before turning and signaling for the driver to proceed.

I settled into my seat, taking in the interaction. Levina was sharp, professional, and formidable in her own right—exactly the kind of person I expected to hold power in House Silverine. But beneath that rigid exterior, there was something else, something deeper that I couldn’t quite place.

As the car began to move, I caught one last glance at Levina standing there, her posture as unyielding as ever.

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