"—With this, the pact ceremony is concluded."

  With the elderly priest's closing words, the Spirit Chamber's tense atmosphere gradually shifted toward dispersal. Yet no one spoke carelessly. The aftershocks of what had occurred mere hours ago still dominated the entire venue. The Silver Wolf Fenrir's descent and contract—an unprecedented event in this academy's history.

  Students exchanged whispers throughout the hall.

  "To think a legendary-class spirit would actually..."

  "No one can laugh at the Altona name now."

  With such voices at my back, I left the venue early, as if escaping the crowd.

  I was exhausted.

  Despite merely attending a single ceremony, I felt as though I'd finished a day's work. Moreover, what I'd gained was a "serious problem" beyond just the spirit contract. Now that the scenario had completely collapsed, I had even less visibility into what lay ahead.

  "—Master Dylan."

  Exiting the venue, I found Martha waiting with a worried expression. I raised my hand lightly, feigning composure.

  'That person? She's beautiful, but... surely not your wife!?'

  A noisy voice suddenly cut into my thoughts. Not only could I hear her voice, but an image of her face popped into my mind—complete with annoying expressions. Despite having been asleep until now, what a carefree spirit.

  "Master Dylan...?"

  Martha's gaze looked puzzled as she tilted her head. I hurriedly cleared my throat and covered.

  "Ah, it's nothing. Just lost in thought."

  'Lost in thought? You can be honest and say your chest is full of joy at gaining a beautiful spirit like me, you know?'

  Who do you think you're fooling...

  Ignoring the frivolous voice echoing in my head was the only option. I turned back to Martha.

  "Sorry to keep you waiting."

  "No, that's fine, but... how did the ceremony go?"

  At Martha's question, I hesitated momentarily on how to answer. I couldn't very well say I'd contracted with the saint goddess.

  "Ah, I managed to contract. A light spirit, apparently named Lou."

  "A light spirit... Lady Lou. Congratulations."

  Martha bowed politely.

  "I'm ashamed to admit I'm unfamiliar with that name, but she must be someone with deep ties to you, Master Dylan."

  "...I hope so."

  There were certainly ties. Whether they were good ties remained unclear.

  'Oh, a servant! This has the makings of forbidden love between master and servant...!'

  ...What have I done? I'm starting to seriously regret contracting with this one.

  I cursed internally and pressed my temple. If she kept talking constantly like this, my sanity might not hold.

  "Master Dylan, you look unwell. Are you injured somewhere?"

  "No, I'm fine. Just a bit tired. Let's return to my room."

  Just as I started walking to escape Martha's concerned gaze—

  Stolen story; please report.

  "Master Belmond."

  A quiet but clear voice stopped me in my tracks. Turning around, I found Julius de Altius standing there. Golden hair bound behind him, purple eyes as cool as ever, even the commotion behind him seeming distant.

  "That was impressive composure earlier. As one who serves the same kingdom, allow me to congratulate you on your successful contract."

  The compliment he casually offered contained neither intimidation nor sarcasm. He simply stated fact—which paradoxically gave it weight, making me feel the terror of his position as a ducal heir.

  "...You honor me."

  When I bowed my head, Julius took a step closer. His purple eyes narrowed slightly, observing me with keen interest.

  "Most students were shaken by Altona's display. The raw power of a legendary spirit... it is natural to be overwhelmed. Yet, you remained calm."

  "I was merely stunned into silence, Lord Julius."

  "No. Your eyes were clear."

  Julius denied my humility instantly.

  "You saw something different than the others. Or perhaps... you simply possess a core that does not waver before power. Either way, it is a quality lacking in our current academy."

  'Ooh! This handsome boy has good eyes! He can tell that my contractor is special!'

  Lumina's excited voice echoed in my head. Shut up for a second. I felt cold sweat trickling down my back. This man was sharp. Far sharper than in the game.

  "There is much I would like to discuss with someone of your insight," Julius continued, his tone smooth yet commanding.

  "However, holding a long conversation here would be tasteless."

  Julius shifted his gaze slightly, looking toward the students still murmuring in the temple's depths about Kreis and the wolf spirit.

  "Power without control brings chaos. The academy—no, the kingdom—will soon face turbulent times. We will need those who can see the truth."

  He turned his gaze back to me.

  "—Later, there will be a gathering held exclusively for those who've formed spirit contracts. It's called the 'Spirit Society.' You'll be invited. I'd appreciate your attendance."

  "Spirit Society...?"

  "Indeed. A place where those who've obtained spirits can confirm bonds and acknowledge each other's power. While it's a social venue, it won't be without merit. I believe you will find it... illuminating."

  It wasn't just an invitation. It was a test. He was inviting me to the inner circle to see what I was truly made of.

  "Understood. I'll humbly attend."

  "Good, I look forward to it. Until then."

  Julius nodded briefly and turned to leave. That straight-backed figure remained in a class of its own compared to other students.

  'Ooh, a social stage! I sense dresses, waltzes, and romance! All thanks to the prestige of contracting with me!'

  That frivolous voice echoing in my head utterly ruined my solemn mood. I placed a hand on my forehead and sighed softly.

  "...Spirit Society, huh."

  I muttered while savoring the moment. Come to think of it, this might be my first time participating in noble society since coming to this academy. I was leading quite the peculiar academy life. No wonder Oscar was exasperated.

  "Well, let's head back."

  In any case, I wanted to rest. Just as I started walking, Martha, who'd fallen in beside me, let out a small breath.

  "You seem quite exhausted."

  "Yeah. ...Honestly, my stomach is still in knots."

  At my half-joking words, Martha smiled wryly.

  "Even so, you'll need to get yourself in order before the Spirit Society."

  "Hey... don't pile on the pressure."

  'That's right, Dylan! The Spirit Society is such an exciting event!'

  An oddly high-tension voice echoed in my head. I held my head internally.

  You're carefree, aren't you...

  'Carefree? How rude! I've already started running mental simulations for our outfits! Dylan should wear a jet-black mantle with red roses, and Martha should...'

  "What are you muttering about?"

  Martha tilted her head dubiously. I exhaled softly and answered.

  "The spirit Lou is unexpectedly talkative..."

  "...Talkative?"

  Martha blinked repeatedly.

  'Talkative!? Wait just a minute! I'm an "intelligent and beautiful spirit"! To call me talkative! That's defamation!'

  Quiet...!

  "I've heard spirits that communicate through words are proof of high rank. Perhaps Lady Lou is actually a high-rank spirit, just not yet widely known."

  'Did you hear that!? High-rank spirit certification! As expected of me!'

  You're not just a high-rank spirit, you're the saint goddess.

  "...Right, since I managed to contract, I should try to think positively."

  When I muttered as if convincing myself, Martha showed a slightly softer expression.

  "Yes. Besides, I'm not very knowledgeable about spirits either, so it would be good if you could gain knowledge at the Spirit Society."

  "Yeah, true."

  A gathering exclusively for spirit contractors—surely I could obtain information I didn't know and clues for the future there. But at the same time, Kreis would undoubtedly be invited as well.

  The promising newcomer who'd contracted with a greater spirit. From my perspective, the one who'd replaced the hero.

  It would be worthwhile to know what he was thinking, how he acted, and what he aimed for.

  "...In any case, let's rest for now. I want to prepare as much as possible before the Spirit Society."

  "Understood."

  Martha bowed respectfully and followed behind me. The academy corridors had already begun to dye with evening darkness. The long day was finally coming to an end.

  'That's right, the Spirit Society is also an information war! I'll give you solid backup!'

  That only makes me more anxious...

  I exhaled softly. Outside the window, the sunset slowly sank, the academy spire's shadow stretching long. Feeling the day's fatigue and tomorrow's weight pressing on my shoulders, I quietly continued forward.