The bullies around him were laughing loudly, ignoring the library rules.
Look at him, one of them mocked.
Ketlos' little brother… what a joke.
Just as they were about to start again—
A cold female voice suddenly echoed through the library.
Are you done embarrassing yourselves?
Everyone turned toward the entrance.
A young girl had just walked inside.
Her long hair moved slightly as she stepped forward with calm confidence.
It was Amelia, the daughter of the Academy Leader.
The moment the bullies saw her, their expressions changed.
Amelia crossed her arms and looked at them coldly.
You're breaking the library guidelines.
You know the punishment for that… right?
Some of the bullies lowered their heads, but a few of them still looked arrogant.
So what if we are? one of them replied.
Amelia's friend immediately stepped forward angrily.
Watch your mouth!
Without hesitation, he attacked one of the bullies.
A short fight broke out inside the library.
Books fell from the shelves as punches and kicks were exchanged.
But eventually, the bullies were forced to retreat.
Fine!
One of them glared at Kairo before leaving.
This isn't over.
We'll deal with you later.
They finally stormed out of the library.
Silence slowly returned.
Amelia then turned toward Kairo.
Are you alright?
Kairo slowly looked up from his book.
Yes.
Thank you for helping me.
But his tone sounded strangely cold.
Amelia studied him for a moment.
You're Ketlos' brother… right?
Kairo nodded.
Yes.
After that, they both returned to their seats.
The library became quiet again as they continued reading.
However, Amelia's friends began whispering among themselves.
One of them looked at Kairo with clear disdain.
You can't even protect yourself.
Your brother is far better than you.
Honestly… it's embarrassing.
Kairo slowly closed his book.
Then he spoke calmly.
You're absolutely right.
His voice was completely emotionless.
I'm just a worm.
I have no worth in front of anyone.
Anyone who wants can step on me and walk away.
His eyes looked empty.
In this world… power is the only thing that matters.
And my power is weak.
So I don't think I'll survive very long anyway.
For a moment, Amelia's friends fell silent.
Amelia frowned slightly.
That's enough.
She looked at them seriously.
Stop talking.
Then she turned toward Kairo.
Don't think like that.
Everyone has their own path.
She tried to encourage him with a few calm words.
After a while, Amelia and her group finally left the library.
Kairo watched them disappear.
But even after they were gone…
The spies outside were still watching him.
Inside, Kairo slowly exhaled.
He was starting to feel slightly irritated.
Persistent insects…
Eventually, he closed his book and left the library.
Later that night…
Inside the Royal Palace.
The moonlight shone through the tall windows.
The King stood silently with his back facing the room.
Behind him, a man knelt respectfully.
Your Majesty…
We have gathered more information about the incident in the forest.
The king didn't turn around.
Speak.
The man lowered his head.
There is a high possibility…
…that an evil cultivator has truly appeared.
The king's eyes slowly darkened.
So it has finally begun…
He whispered quietly.
Behind him, the kneeling man waited for the next order.
The king's voice soon echoed through the chamber.
Find him.
No matter the cost.