Chapter 740: Request for Moon Tickets – Who Got the Upper Hand?
The afterglow of the sunset painted half of the castle in red, dispelling the winter’s chill with the fluttering hearts of its inhabitants. The tower clock on the Spiral Bell Tower continued to measure time as always.
Christmas Eve had arrived.
With the help of the golem, Dark smoothed out his clothes, put on a bow tie, thought for a moment, and threw the rose back into the water cup, then placed his mana card deck close to him. Only then did he relax his brow, wearing a faint smile as he tried walking two steps in his bedroom.
“It’s time, hurry up.”
Beside the Soul of the Moon Goddess, who was sitting on the bed along with the Magical Beasts: Heartful Eyes’ Goddess and the Destroyer God, urged Dark to leave quickly.
Next to each of the three were exquisite dresses, waiting for Dark to leave so they could try them on.
“I’ll be going first, see you tonight.”
Dark helplessly waved his hand and straightened his chest before heading towards the door.
Last year, he entered the ballroom with Diana and Rose holding hands, but things were different this year.
Even if they needed to separate after entering and return to their seats, since this invitation came from their side, they should show enthusiasm.
The two, who had communicated beforehand through their identification cards, almost simultaneously opened the door and walked out, passing through the corridor, descending the stairs, and meeting at the predetermined path on “Lover’s Bridge.”
This bridge between the castles, due to its location, had always been popular among couples. Even outside holidays, many couples would meet there.
On this night before Christmas, there were even more such people.
Boys and girls appeared from both sides of “Lover’s Bridge,” gathered in the middle, stayed for a moment, and then left hand in hand, heading toward the banquet hall on the first floor.
…
As Dark turned from the corridor on the third-floor dormitory to the stairs, the door on the other side quietly opened. Diana and Rose, dressed elegantly, peeked their heads out, their silky hair naturally cascading down.
They exchanged glances and, in unison, stepped out of the room, closing the door behind them.
“Tonight, it’s just us, Nana,” Rose said with a sad expression.
Diana was about to respond when she suddenly changed her expression, saying coldly, “There’s another one too.”
A pink-haired head popped out from the corridor.
Yudora Enwi hadn’t bothered Dark during the Christmas season, but she clearly hadn’t given up. She noticed the two of them and silently nodded, stepping out of the room.
A year had passed, and the passage of time had left clear marks on her.
Perhaps sensing Dark’s preferences, she had started growing her hair at the beginning of the year, and now she finally had long, beautiful hair.
Three girls of different styles gathered at the staircase entrance, outwardly friendly while secretly sizing each other up.
Diana’s face remained slightly round, but she had developed a striking beauty. When she closed her lips, her eyes beneath her long eyelashes sparkled like a lake.
At thirteen, she had finally made some progress in height, being taller than Yudora by a noticeable margin.
At the Christmas dinner, she chose a vibrant red dress different from last year’s. The dress, with its voluminous skirt and copious ruffles, was colored like fire, revealing much of her neck and chest, with half of her collarbone showing.
This dress, which most people couldn’t pull off, looked perfect on her.
Her skin was smooth like white jade, perfectly complementing the bright red. Her figure, somewhat at odds with her age, accentuated her chest beautifully.
Paired with a fiery red hair accessory and crystal red dancing shoes, she transformed into a leaping flame butterfly.
Both Rose and Yudora felt they couldn’t shine as brightly as her.
Both chose lighter-colored outfits for the evening.
Rose wore a light blue dress, different from last year’s pure white. Her outfit style was almost identical to Diana’s, with a dark blue rose on her head and dim star-like decorations on her shoes.
Her skin was also fair, but her figure was more slender, making her appear even more delicate under the cool tones.
Tonight, she was slightly taller than Diana.
Yudora, however, wore a pale pink outfit that didn’t change much, even her lip gloss was very light. Walking in the increasingly dark night, she seemed to fade away.
But under the spotlight, she instantly became the most dazzling presence.
Overall, she still seemed fragile.
While her fragility might make her easy to push around, being overly frail only made her more pitiable, making it hard to have any other thoughts.
But this was her strategy for tonight.
She had been restraining herself, not speaking to Dark or inviting him to the ball, as if she had disappeared.
All for the chance to suddenly appear tonight, pulling Dark onto the stage without giving him a chance to react.
—Not speaking means no rejection.
Her goal tonight was to dance with him at least once, ideally even hold hands!
Yudora had planned this meticulously.
…
The three familiar girls descended the stairs, entered the common room, sat down at a table, and began counting the time, ready to leave when the moment was right.
Shortly after, the twin princesses in luxurious attire sat across from them.
Anna and Angie, dressed in elaborate ceremonial gowns with gold and silver ornaments, seemed completely at ease. They subtly inquired about Dark’s whereabouts and mocked Diana, occasionally covering their mouths to laugh softly.
Diana gradually hardened her expression, her eyes glaring fiercely at the two little princesses.
Rose quickly held her hand under the table to prevent her from lunging forward and biting someone.
Only after the two little princesses left, surrounded by their followers, did Diana pout and mutter, “I hate it.”
Of course, she wasn’t really angry; she was just unhappy.
Rose, somewhat helplessly, reached into her skirt, pulled out a piece of candy from her deck tied to her thigh, unwrapped it, and put it in Diana’s mouth.
Diana chewed the candy but still looked annoyed.
Yudora, meanwhile, had already withdrawn, never engaging in conversation with the two princesses, keeping her presence as low as possible.
After a while, Aurora emerged from the staircase, approaching them after seeing the three of them.
She was very familiar with Diana and Rose, often feeding them at the academy, and Rose naturally reciprocated her kindness.
However, she wasn’t very familiar with Yudora, so they introduced themselves briefly after greeting each other.
Aurora, with her exceptionally sharp senses, immediately realized that this senior student of her age was a significant threat. However, neither had fully committed, so they weren’t quite rivals yet.
Yudora was also extremely sensitive, sharing similar feelings with Aurora.
In short, the four failed attempts—four cats looking to steal a taste—naturally gathered together.
“I wonder how Dark is doing now?”
They all thought simultaneously.
…
“Lover’s Bridge.”
As Dark approached the bridge and found it crowded, he decisively took out his identification card, preparing to notify Senior Pandora to meet elsewhere.
But as soon as he moved, he suddenly felt as if he was being watched by a fierce beast.
That feeling was terrifying, as if he was already in the beast’s jaws, and with one bite, he would be torn apart by sharp teeth.
It was a sudden feeling, without warning, making it even more frightening.
He shuddered, instinctively turning his head backward, trying to glimpse the beast.
Then, something slightly cool and soft touched his lips.
“Aah!”
Pandora seemed startled, emitting a brief exclamation.
Her originally slightly tilted posture instantly straightened, and she shyly covered her rapidly reddening cheek.
Dark opened his mouth, his eyes filled with shock.
That sense of danger, as if being watched by a fierce beast, vanished as if it had never existed.
At this point, even if he knew he had fallen for it, he couldn’t say anything.
Moreover, it was unclear who had the upper hand.
…
Tonight, Pandora Dragon, contrary to her usual style, wore a black and red lace dress. Her face, usually lightly made-up, now had more color, making her slightly pale complexion look more vivid—this was undoubtedly Hefestus Dragone’s work.
Her everyday appearance reflected her paternal lineage, with long black hair that was standard black and straight, but unlike the delicate, slender, and literary少女 often found in literature, her broad-mindedness made her seem less delicate.
But it was precisely this perfect blend of these two traits that firmly captured Dark’s attention, unable to move.
Although it was somewhat embarrassing to admit, every aspect of Senior Pandora’s appearance hit exactly where it mattered to him.
Now,爱上
A person before, humans are ultimately visual creatures.
Even after falling in love with someone, a good appearance is always a plus.
The cold wind blew, and the crowd surged.
Dak Demon stood at the bridgehead, his eyes fixed on her without blinking.
Pandora couldn’t help but blush as she felt his unwavering gaze.
But before her cheeks could fully redden, she stammered to regain control of the situation, “Have you had enough?”
“Never,” Dak said softly, then extended his gloved hand to his dance partner for the evening.
Pandora raised her hand, placing her black-gloved palm on his, and their fingers intertwined gently.
“Let’s go, we don’t have much time.”
The awkwardness from being teased faded away seamlessly.
Dak Demon, +1 point!
…
The entry time for the Christmas ball was exactly seven o’clock in the evening.
However, students usually set out from the tower at six-thirty and slowly made their way inside after a stroll around the castle.
Robert Broheim, like most boys, wore a neat suit, but his overly broad shoulders and bulging muscles stretched the jacket too much, losing its formal look entirely.
On his way to the tower, he suddenly turned towards the academy’s only infirmary.
Along the way, he crossed paths with Scott Hurst, who was already a third-year student.
He knew that Scott, a close friend of Wit, who was part of the marine biology research club, should have just come out of the infirmary.
Sister Carrian was still in the infirmary at this time. Robert knocked and entered after receiving permission from Sister Carrian.
The faint conversation heard at the door suddenly stopped, and the room was filled with Wit Gold, half-lying on the bed, idly flipping through books.
Wit Gold, under the pretense of illness, was “protected” in the infirmary.
To avoid any complications, he would spend Christmas here.
“Thinking about it, every holiday seems to bring bad luck,” Wit said calmly, his eyes showing no emotion, as if he had seen through the world.
Robert glared at him and laughed, “Stop putting on airs; the melancholy phase is outdated.”
Wit smiled and said, “Go to the party, I’ll be fine.”
Robert pointed at his suit and said, “Do I look like I’m staying behind? Never mind, you seem to be doing well, so I won’t disturb you.”
He stood up, touched his nose, and said, “I’ll come back after the first half.”
Wit smiled and said, “Okay, I’ll prepare the chessboard.”
Robert nodded and left.
He knew of Ophelia Brad, but didn’t delve deeper into the details.
…
After Robert left, Ophelia Brad appeared again and sighed, “What a good child.”
Wit’s lips twitched but he didn’t argue.
Before adults, even mischievous children tend to behave.
Of course, he wasn’t implying Robert wasn’t a good child; sometimes he was just impulsive, foolish… well, pure.
No matter how big the flaws of a friend were, they did not affect their friendship, at most they carried the burden together.
…
As the clock approached seven, the castle rang with clear bell chimes.
Dak and Senior Pandora walked slowly along the castle corridor toward the banquet hall on the first floor.
They were both not talkative by nature, but when together, they always had endless things to say.
From past joys and sorrows, to present life, to future dreams.
There were countless topics they could discuss.
Regardless of why they initially liked each other, now there was a mutual fondness.
Time slipped away amidst their words, and by seven o’clock, they reached the banquet hall.
Through the open doors, a massive Christmas tree came into view.
…
…
…
Chapter 741
On either side of the main entrance to the banquet hall stood a luminous deer, with red Santa hats on their heads.
Dak approached the door, removed one of the deer’s Santa hats, and watched as a new hat spun down from above and settled back onto the deer’s head.
He smiled slightly, turned, and picked up another Santa hat, gently placing it on Senior Pandora’s head.
Pandora smiled and took off a Santa hat, placing it on his head.
Their gazes met, and after a brief pause, they parted ways.
“Let’s go in,” Pandora said, quickly averting her gaze.
“Alright,” Dak said calmly, grabbing her hand and leading her into the hall.
Two teenagers, pretending to be strong but actually experiencing their first dance, stepped into the hall amidst the clear and pleasant music.
Inside, they lightly released each other’s hands, exchanged a “see you later,” and headed towards their respective house tables.
Pandora’s steps were noticeably quicker.
Dak paused momentarily, watching her back thoughtfully, then grinned and headed towards the Noble Academy table, directly facing Aurora’s gaze.
Although they started later, Aurora arrived at the banquet hall first.
She was a first-year student, naturally sitting closest to the entrance.
But when Dak and Pandora appeared together at the entrance, she caught sight of them.
Then, she watched as they put Santa hats on each other and held hands, walking into the hall. She quietly withdrew her gaze—though she couldn’t resist looking up again.
“Merry Christmas Eve,” Dak waved at Aurora.
Aurora suppressed her growing emotions and lifted her hand, waving back.
They smiled at each other, and Dak walked past her to the second-year seats.
Almost all the second-year students from the Noble Academy were present, with few empty seats. Dak’s eyes scanned and found an empty seat between Diana and Rose.
But as he approached, he noticed a small bear holding a lollipop suddenly occupying the seat, causing his smile to falter.
“This seat is taken,” Diana said matter-of-factly.
But before Dak could speak, she couldn’t hold back and covered her mouth, laughing.
The bear had been mysteriously summoned and then mysteriously returned to the card, freeing up the seat again.
Dak opened his mouth but decided to pull out the chair and sit down anyway.
It’s hard to get things done with too thin a skin.
Just as he sat down, Diana asked teasingly, “Where were you?”
“Lover’s Bridge,” Dak replied without hesitation, giving the wrong answer.
Diana’s face visibly puffed up, thinking this person was truly annoying, unable to even flatter her.
If Dak had lied to please her, she would have been even more upset… but there was no helping it, she just wasn’t happy!
Not happy, indeed!
Her lips were pursed so tightly they could hang a sock.
Rose, sitting next to Dak, couldn’t feed him at this moment, so she blinked at him urgently.
Dak sighed and moved a plate with a whole cake in front of him, neatly slicing it into three pieces and offering one, “Want some?”
“Sure,” Diana responded reflexively, puffing up her cheeks.
But when the cake was presented, she obediently grabbed a fork and started eating.
The atmosphere finally relaxed… well, it wasn’t tense to begin with.
This year’s Christmas party remained lively. Students talked and laughed, the sweets and tea on the tables exuded a fragrant aroma, the light and cheerful music stirred joyous emotions, the unlit “mountain”-shaped candleholder danced to the rhythm of sheet music, and colorful orbs floated in the air, contracting and expanding intermittently.
Four long tables, each with distinct red tablecloths, had small Christmas trees placed at regular intervals. Underneath each tree were reindeer dragging sleds and bags full of gifts—but no Santa Claus.
On the stage ahead, the massive Christmas tree was adorned with countless gift boxes and decorations.
The dazzling golden crown, the mana book emitting magical light, the sharp lance gleaming with brilliance, and the tarot cards arranged with the Fool at the forefront…
Four iconic items floated around the Christmas tree, with glowing little elves circling and dancing around it, occasionally emitting a silver bell-like laughter.
Looking up, the ceiling flowed with a magnificent galaxy, countless stars flickering brightly, mysterious yet splendid.
In this endlessly expanding festive atmosphere, the elegantly dressed professors finally entered from the side of the stage, taking their seats at the faculty table.
At Saint Maryann Academy, there were often changes among the staff each year. This year, several new faces joined the teaching staff while a few old ones left.
But students only needed to know each subject’s professors and the deans of each house.
Dark glanced over and saw Hefestus Dragone, but Ophelia Brad was not there.
Professor Ryan Hux, who had arrived after last year’s Christmas, had smoothly integrated himself among them.
For some unknown reason, his head, which had grown back its flowing hair, had turned bald again, rounder than the moon.
Professor Lily appeared to be in high spirits, sitting down and attacking the desserts on the table with Professor Nina.
Lady Bella from the library seemed to have a good relationship with Hefestus; they sat next to each other, whispering together.
Professor Shylph sat in the second seat, wearing a thick coat tonight, with a white scarf around her neck. Her face was cold, sharply contrasting with Professor Metia, who still wore a thin purple robe.
Professor Jones sat in a rear position, with Professor Heldred Bode, whose face remained as gloomy as ever, on her other side.
Professors Thompson, Eric, Bacon, Steven Harvey…
Almost all the professors one could think of were present, except for Professor Kazel.
…
“Principal Altair, will you be making your grand entrance once more?”
Rose leaned close to Dark’s ear and whispered.
“I suppose so.”
Dark slightly frowned, unable to explain further.
In these days, he had been focused on constructing the golem, but he wasn’t oblivious to what was happening outside.
Things didn’t quite go as planned.
Although Professor Shylph had made a remote report to Principal Altair, she hadn’t received any constructive advice.
This was due to Principal Altair actually not being at the academy—her doppelgänger could only do so much.
The Duke’s Mansion and Saint Maryann Academy had formed a private alliance.
Olivia and Eve would represent the Duke’s Mansion and collaborate with the academy until this matter was resolved.
Therefore, the Duke’s Mansion also gained some secret information.
One of which was Dark’s long-standing curiosity about Principal Altair’s whereabouts.
In short, she was indeed not at the academy.
The last time she was at the academy was when the professors discovered the [Heart of the Gods] in the dungeon.
She had accompanied Professor Kazel to the dungeon, witnessing the existence of the [Heart of the Gods].
Soon after, she left the school again, heading for the Star Tower!
The Star Tower was known as the “Holy Land of Astrologers,” “the place where stars are plucked by tentacles”…
Before the Sky City appeared, it was also called the “Highest Place.”
Regardless of its titles, the Star Tower was the gathering place of the world’s top astrologers.
The current lord of the Star Tower was one of the authorities in astrology.
Compared to Professor Metia Bartholomew, he was slightly more distinguished.
To see the future clearly, Principal Altair personally went to the Star Tower to visit the lord, and the outcome was self-evident.
After that, Saint Maryann Academy launched the “Divine Plan.”
Professor Kazel’s small experiment was part of the “Divine Plan,” but it was added considering Professor Kazel’s personal wishes.
The underground city of Saint Maryann Academy was an inseparable part of the academy facilities. In principle, the academy did not want to take risks inside and certainly did not want to mix the “secret path” and “divinity” factors, as no one could predict what might happen.
In short, Principal Altair preferred to put the risks outside and bring everything back safely afterward.
Thus, the true “Divine Plan” was led and executed by her.
Guided by the lord of the Star Tower, she set out northward… There lay the once-collapsed Mountain of Gods—Mount Polopos!
Mount Polopos, in the original game, was essentially a variation of Mount Olympus.
It was the extreme point of light, the entrance to the heavenly court, and the place where the gods ruled over all people.
Even among the gods, the “heavenly gods” were the most noble.
Considering the impending revival of the gods, Principal Altair originally planned to explore places like Mount Polopos and the Plain of Silence.
However, the lord of the Star Tower helped her make the choice.
…
That was all the information shared.
Dark was very curious about why Principal Altair went to Mount Polopos and what she found there, as well as how far her exploration had progressed… But these were top-secret matters, even Professor Lily, one of the four deans, didn’t know!
In short, Principal Altair probably wouldn’t return anytime soon.
If she hadn’t made breakthrough progress in her exploration of Mount Polopos, then she must have encountered unprecedented difficulties.
Professor Shylph said nothing, and others could only speculate.
Therefore, at tonight’s Christmas dinner, Principal Altair’s doppelgänger would likely appear.
As for whether her doppelgänger could be considered “Principal Altair”?
For the students who were unaware, perhaps it could be considered so.
…
“Ding-dong~”
As the professors took their seats, the seven o’clock bell rang leisurely from the direction of the Spiral Bell Tower.
The first-year students curiously looked in the direction of the sound, while the older students were already prepared.
The lights in the Grand Hall instantly extinguished with the ringing of the bell, plunging everything into darkness. The fear was limited to the first-year students.
Every year, this scene occurred during the Christmas party. It was unclear who started this tradition.
Dark narrowed his eyes, silently counting three seconds before seeing the silver candle stands floating in mid-air light up simultaneously. The glow quickly connected, illuminating the entire hall, blending light and shadow rapidly.
The unique atmosphere of the Saint Maryann Academy’s banquet gradually emerged.
The desserts and tea on the tables disappeared silently, rows of gold and silver utensils appeared quietly. The candlelight reflected off the golden and silverware, casting a faint rainbow.
Saint Maryann Academy’s most beautiful and noble lady, Cynthia Saint Altair, appeared silently on the stage as the students were distracted by the utensils on the table.
She raised her staff and waved lightly. The distant sound of a reindeer suddenly echoed, rapidly approaching.
Stars lit up on the horizon.
These stars arrived after the sound, pulling a snow-white reindeer-drawn sleigh. Santa Claus with a beard sat on the sleigh, a gift bag with starlight trailing behind him.
It appeared from one side of the stage, circled the spacious hall, and opened the door with the sound of reindeers, disappearing into the night with a long star trail.
The starlight streaming from the bottom of the gift bag sprinkled onto the plates, turning into countless delicacies.
These were Santa Claus’ gifts, the source of tonight’s joy.
Among the numerous delicacies, almost everyone had a succulent roasted turkey, its belly facing upwards, rich stuffing overflowing from the incision, sliding down the surface of the turkey onto the plate, making one’s mouth water.
Excited students couldn’t wait to pick up their knives and forks, eager to enjoy this once-a-year delicious dish.
“Today is Christmas Eve!”
Principal Altair’s voice followed.
“It’s a day to be with family!”
“But for me, Saint Maryann is my home.”
“Every student here is my family.”
“On every Christmas Eve, I make a wish, hoping to spend the next Christmas with my family.”
“It seems my wish from last year has come true.”
…
“Indeed, it’s the same wish made every Christmas Eve, word for word as last year’s speech.”
Dark held his knife and fork, silently complaining.
There were surely many people in the hall thinking the same thing, but everyone was tactfully silent.
Because Principal Altair’s speech would soon end.
Why would anyone want to point out such details?
Children of Saint Maryann Academy are always so kind.
…
“Wishing everyone a peaceful Christmas Eve! No matter when or where, peace will always accompany you, my dear family!”
Principal Altair spread her arms, as if embracing the entire academy, delivering her final message.
Then, the piano in the corner of the stage automatically played, and the Christmas dinner began as usual.
The students finally picked up their knives and forks, indulging in the feast.
Dark paid attention to the growth of [Gluttony] while enjoying the delicious turkey, occasionally refilling Diana’s glass with juice to prevent her from choking from eating too fast.
Dinner lasted nearly half an hour before the stage finally had a performance.
Last year’s opening act was magic and circus, followed by a surprise appearance by the famous mermaid songstress, Miss Xing Luo, and then a ballet—[Swan Lake].
That magnificent performance of [Swan Lake] was unforgettable, still vivid in memory today.
Dark looked forward to the stage, knowing that this year’s opening act would be a dance drama—the [Girl with Green Eyes] performed by the Public Dueling Society.
A dance drama was written almost simultaneously in various banquets across the kingdom for the sake of selling cards.
The society spared no effort to advertise it far and wide.
The protagonist of the drama was based on Hajime Seo, incorporating elements of simulated duels, but it did not involve specific rules of simulated duels. The duels in the drama mainly showcased powerful elementals.
The first half of the drama focused on the protagonist’s obsession and bond with the card “Blue-Eyed White Dragon,” while the second half depicted a touching love story as the dragon transformed into a human.
Although the entire drama might not have been as perfect as Swan Lake, it was still a new play that earned high praise from audiences who were tired of old plays.
Dark watched the entire drama without blinking, knowing that the Public Dueling Society’s marketing strategy was solid.
After the drama “The Maiden of the Blue Eye,” the stage returned to tranquility, focusing on emotional songs and dances, gradually transitioning into the ball time.
At nine o’clock sharp.
The highly anticipated Christmas ball’s first half began!
“Woof!”
Diana bit through the lamb rib and swallowed it whole, glancing around like a thief.
Dark shook his head, wiping her greasy mouth with a wet wipe before whispering, “I’ll go first, see you in the second half.”
“Ow.”
Diana nodded and continued eating, burying her face in a mountain of lamb ribs.
Her cheeks flushed red, spreading to her ears, burning hot.
Dark quietly stood up.
Rose moved closer, sitting next to Diana, winking at Dark and saying, “It’s my turn.”
Dark smiled, looking toward the Mana Academy fifth-year students.
Pandora Dragon put down her mouthwash and, under everyone’s watchful eyes, gracefully stood up from her chair.
Even amidst the sea of formal attire, she shone the brightest.
They no longer hid their affection.
The fifth-year students of the Mana Academy knew that this white dragon girl, once known as the “Ball Wall,” had long been conquered by the little junior.
Last year’s Christmas ball saw these two take the stage, opening the event.
Some felt resentful, muttering things like “shotacon” under their breaths, filled with jealousy when looking at Pandora.
They wished they were the “shotacon.”
But Dark Demon was already thirteen, and by fourteen, he would be considered an adult during wartime, ready for battle.
Though his body wasn’t fully grown, he was already over 170 cm tall, almost reaching the standard for a “shota,” though perhaps only his youthful handsome face remained.
Not long after, the golden couple met below the stage.
Pandora turned to look at the boy whose shoulder was level with hers, unable to hide her genuine smile.
Last year, he wasn’t this tall.
Unexpectedly, in just one or two years, he was nearly catching up to her.
However, she was a half-dragon, taking longer to develop. There was still room for growth in the coming years, so she wouldn’t fall too far behind.
With such thoughts, she felt increasingly happy.
Female dragons never bowed to those weaker than themselves. She believed Dark would surpass her someday, whether in height or something else.
When that day came…
A faint blush appeared on Pandora’s cheeks, her bashful embarrassment envied by others.
“Hey!”
Dark was fully focused on his senior’s face when a loud shout broke his concentration.
He frowned and turned, seeing Princess Anna and Angie squinting at him indistinctly.
“Good evening, Dark.” Anna said.
“Good evening, Dark.” Angie said.
Both princesses’ voices carried clear malice.
Dark sighed inwardly, bowing and greeting, “Good evening, lovely princesses. Your beauty shines like stars, your hearts deep like the galaxy…”
“Thank you.” Anna beamed.
“You’re calling me heartless?” Angie stomped on Dark’s foot.
Dark subtly pulled back his foot and stepped on hers, then looked down and said, “Alright Angie, Merry Christmas, I have a gift for you.”
“Eh? Of course, I prepared one for you too.” Angie widened her eyes, her face turning red with anger.
“I’m looking forward to it.” Dark smiled slightly, holding Pandora’s hand and turning to step onto the stage.
Angie immediately pulled back her foot, looking at Anna.
The twin princesses nodded in unison and also headed for the stage.
As they walked, their lips moved, and the mana cards hidden in their sleeves glowed faintly, enveloping them in a gentle aura.
They had been planning this for a long time.
…
Dark and Pandora naturally drew many eyes, but the twin princesses were no less impressive.
With the accompaniment starting, Dark and Pandora danced the most familiar steps.
The two little princesses were also
…
Chapter 742
“What’s going on? Why is it ineffective again?”
Anna and Angie whispered as they danced in a circle.
They hadn’t done much; they just used magic cards that caused mild dizziness to confuse Dark’s steps and make him look foolish.
Initially, it worked, and they were pleased, but after that, they failed every time, and their smiles faded.
Anna couldn’t help but curse, “Damn, maybe we were too lenient? If we knew his mental resilience was so strong, we should have used a mental hammer…”
Angie complained, “Don’t do that, we still have five and a half years here.”
“Yeah.” Anna sighed.
One had to bow to circumstances.
Dark was practically a professor in this academy, and they understood the current situation. They could only pretend, but not dare to touch the real thing.
Today, if not for someone who didn’t even invite the princess to dance, they wouldn’t have hurriedly created this magic card for revenge.
“Ugh, since the plot failed, let’s use a frontal approach!” Angie’s eyes gleamed, “I noticed the white dragon senior’s dance moves are stiff, she probably doesn’t dance often. Let’s try to suppress her, shall we?”
“Yes, let’s steal all her spotlight!” Anna’s eyes lit up, “It’s time for them to see what true dancing skills are!”
The two princesses instantly agreed and changed their demeanor, performing a dazzling dance on the stage.
As princesses, they had learned various banquet skills from a young age, and their dancing techniques were far superior to Dark and Pandora’s.
Their strategy was spot-on, but their direction was wrong.
Dark had no intention of drawing attention. Even if they stole the spotlight, so what?
In fact, if they could divert everyone’s attention away, he would be happier.
Then he could enjoy the moment with Pandora senior…
One song after another played, and the crowd on stage changed repeatedly.
Anna and Angie, with their superb dancing skills, drew the audience’s gaze like a whirlpool.
They quickly dominated the center of the stage, becoming the brightest stars under the spotlight.
Yet, they didn’t realize they had become powerful assistants.
Seeing the two little fools move further away, Dark led Pandora senior towards the huge Christmas tree and slowly danced beneath it, fully enjoying this rare opportunity.
They danced for over half an hour.
Engrossed in each other’s gaze, they didn’t notice the passage of time, but… the music stopped!
Though it was only a brief intermission, it allowed the eager young couple to regain their senses, smile at each other, and leave the stage.
“They finally left!”
On the other side, exhausted Anna and Angie stuck out their tongues, quickly letting go of each other and descending the stage from the opposite side.
They probably wouldn’t want to dance for a long time.
But the twin princesses’ efforts indeed added color to tonight’s ball, and the teachers and students accompanying them were quite entertained… of course, some cute creatures were also dancing and having fun.
The first half of the ball lasted from nine to ten, followed by a one-hour interval, with the second half starting at eleven.
Dark’s golem elements had slipped in at 7:30 PM, watching the entire show from the entrance, and by 9:00 PM, they entered openly, blending seamlessly into the crowd.
The students and faculty of Saint Maryann Academy were accustomed to their presence, and many were already familiar with them, having close relationships.
Someone fed a moon ticket to a little Cubone, someone invited a demon fox beast to dance, and someone fought to hold the pink bunny hugging a log.
Yes, the fairy tale animal, the little rabbit, became the most popular golem element tonight.
And
Many golem spirits were eager to rush to their master’s side, but Dark had instructed them not to disturb—at least during the first half of the ball, which earned him some precious personal space.
Regardless, the cute little things that received Santa hats at the entrance of the castle seemed to have a good time. The evening feast was bound to become a cherished memory for them.
Their master, Dark Demon, left the stage with Senior Pandora after the festivities.
But having danced for over half an hour, all nearby spots for two to be alone were already occupied; even the stone bench they sat on last year was now taken.
They exchanged a helpless smile and walked further away, eventually leaving the castle grounds and reaching the thawed lakeside. They strolled along the lake under the starry night sky, the wind carrying a coolness that kept them alert and unable to fully immerse in the romantic atmosphere.
Unconsciously, they found themselves at the Lotus Pavilion, sitting by its edge.
The wind calmed down.
The shoulders of the young man and woman gradually leaned against each other, sharing silent warmth.
Even though the night was cold, hearts remained warm.
In the distance, their silhouettes melted into the night.
…
At ten o’clock precisely, the clock chimed, signaling the end of the first half of the ball.
“Half-time,” Dark murmured softly.
Pandora responded lazily, “Mm.”
After a moment of hesitation, Dark said, “I prepared a gift.”
Pandora asked, “For Christmas Eve?”
Dark replied, “Christmas Day.”
Pandora asked, “Can’t you prepare two?”
Dark was speechless.
Pandora chuckled, “Alright, I was joking. I prepared a gift too. Shall we exchange?”
Dark nodded, “Sure.”
They moved slightly apart, straightening their posture, then each took out their gifts and placed them on the other’s lap.
…
Dark lowered his head slightly, holding the Christmas gift Pandora had given him.
It was a beautifully wrapped square box, somewhat heavy but not overly so. He wondered what might be inside, a faint smile playing on his lips.
The gift he gave to Pandora was similarly wrapped, but in a flat rectangular shape. Inside lay the magic card he had meticulously crafted.
Compared to last year’s gift, this magic card was far less valuable, but the effort he put into it was a hundred or thousand times more than last year’s.
“Can I open it now?” Dark asked softly.
Pandora’s eyes twinkled as she replied matter-of-factly, “Since it’s a Christmas gift, it should be opened on Christmas Day.” Dark suppressed his eagerness and held the box, saying, “Then we’ll wait until midnight.”
Though he had opened last year’s gift during the dance interval, the situation was special back then, so he didn’t make a fuss about it.
Pandora examined the gift he had given her, whispering, “We still have two hours…”
Dark wavered, “How about…?”
Pandora firmly said, “No, let’s wait!”
Dark smiled and put the box away.
Then they quietly leaned closer again, savoring the passage of time.
…
On the other side, Diana was ostensibly “saving her energy” while competing with Little Cubone for food… It wasn’t really necessary since there was plenty of food in the banquet hall.
Rose sat next to her, eating strawberry cake piece by piece.
This was her third piece tonight, breaking her usual routine!
She sighed, putting the last strawberry in her mouth and suppressing the urge to eat more. She shifted her focus, “I wonder what Dark and Senior Pandora are up to?”
Diana paused, seemingly trying to convince herself. “Let’s take our time, let’s take our time…”
Rose couldn’t help but laugh.
“Taking our time” was actually their plan together.
But plans often don’t survive contact with reality.
If Dark and Pandora’s relationship truly progressed, their plan would be thwarted halfway.
Their only hope was Dark’s self-control, backed by Bliss.
Fortunately, Dark had always shown commendable restraint.
Rose said, “After this year, Pandora will be in her sixth year. Another year and she’ll graduate. Then our… your chance will come.”
“But that’s still a long way off…” Diana swallowed her food, mumbling.
She preferred direct confrontation… if there was a chance of winning.
Rose comforted her, “Focus on growing taller in the meantime.”
Diana glared at her, “Stop hitting on my sore spots.”
Rose smiled, “With parents like ours, you’re bound to grow. You might even surpass me one day.”
“We must grow,” Diana said. “Otherwise, I’ll be treated like a child. So, I need to eat more to grow faster!”
Rose was speechless.
Diana continued eating.
…
When they saw Dark again, the second half of the ball was about to begin.
Pandora walked beside Dark, keeping a slight distance, watching him walk briskly towards the long table at the academy, her smile fading.
She knew Dark was going to dance with Diana again.
Last year, Dark had reserved the second half for Diana.
Their relationship must be excellent.
She understood, but today was different. She felt a twinge of jealousy.
Yet, she quickly regained her composure and followed behind.
…
Diana, prompted by Rose, hurriedly rinsed her mouth, wiped her lips, and stood up shyly.
She wasn’t usually like this, but tonight she felt unusually bashful.
“Go ahead,” Rose whispered behind her.
She walked over but hesitated when she reached Dark, unsure of what to say.
A hand wearing a white glove appeared before her, and Dark’s voice followed, “Would this lovely lady grace me with a dance?”
“Of course!” Diana nodded vigorously, placing her hand in his.
Dark led her to the stage.
As they walked, the clock struck eleven, and the piano music suddenly rose, signaling the start of the second half of the ball.
Pairs of elegantly dressed men and women returned to the stage.
The professors who had left the stage to give students the first half now joined in, enjoying the lingering youth.
Before Dark reached the stage, he was intercepted.
…
Pandora trailed behind, her laughter barely contained.
She should have been more jealous, but thinking of Dark’s awkwardness, she found herself amused.
Victoria and Phoenix stood guard-like at the front of the stage, whispering two meters away.
Eevee, Reaper’s Casket, Demon Fox Beast, and Deoxys leaned against the wall—golems all.
But she knew these golems possessed human-like intelligence.
They weren’t just blocking the path…
Her gaze shifted to several girls standing guard at the staircases, eyeing the second half of the ball.
These girls had avoided the first half but targeted the second.
They probably hadn’t anticipated so many competitors.
Pandora’s eyes flickered as she recalled Dark’s earlier words.
“What did he tell me outside…? He has something to do tonight and will leave early?”
“He didn’t tell me what it was, and now he’s in trouble, right?”
“Can he still leave early?”
“What should I do?”
Pandora laughed dreamily, noticing the golden-haired girl walking toward her.
“What are you doing here?” she asked.
Rose froze, intending to greet the senior.
Pandora breathed out, “Shouldn’t you be over there?”
…
…
