Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

Adrian and his group successfully escorted everyone out of the ruin and returned to the city without any major incidents. Upon arrival, they handed over the Black Hand mercenaries to the city authorities, ensuring the criminals would face justice.

Adrian personally delivered Gaston to the TWAO and met with Mrs. Ardent, the Branch Leader. He provided her with the evidence he'd gathered using a recording artifact, detailing Gaston's involvement with the Black Hand.

Later that evening, as Adrian sat down for dinner, Aria casually asked, "So, is everything taken care of?"

Adrian smiled, a sense of relief washing over him. "Yes," he replied warmly. "We don't have to worry about anything for a while."

"...Is something going to happen soon?"

"...Yes. Something bad." Adrian replied after a pause.

Actually, he thought about since yesterday, whether to tell about his ability to her, and that would also clear up some misunderstandings they had before.

'Here it comes...'

"...I see." Aria replied with a nod and continued eating.

"...actually, I—" Adrian started but faltered, his words catching in his throat.

'Wait, what?'

Aria hadn't even blinked. She just nodded, as if this was normal, continuing to eat her meal without pressing him further.

Adrian blinked, feeling thrown off. He stared at her, his confusion mounting.

"Aren't you going to ask me how I know about it?" His voice edged with incredulity.

Aria paused mid-bite, setting her fork down carefully. Her gaze met his, calm but with a knowing glint. "Do you want to tell me?"

Adrian opened his mouth, but nothing came out. He hadn't expected that. Did he want to tell her? He found himself stuck in the silence, unsure of what he wanted. His thoughts were tangled—part of him wanted to share, to clear up the misunderstandings, but another part felt hesitant. This was more complicated than just a promise.

Aria smiled softly, breaking the tension. "If it's a secret, you can keep it. Even though we promised not to hide things from each other, we can still keep some secrets, right?"

Her words hit him in a way he hadn't expected. He stared at her, the weight of their bond suddenly feeling lighter and heavier at the same time. This wasn't just about promises; it was about trust.

Adrian exhaled, slumping slightly in his chair. "I… I guess you're right."

Aria's smile widened just a bit, and she picked up her fork again, her eyes soft as she went back to her meal. Adrian watched her for a moment longer, still caught in his own thoughts. Maybe, just maybe, some things could remain unspoken for now.

However, he didn't know that Aria really wanted to know about it, really, and really.

But she knew once she got to know about it, she would have to tell him her ability too, or else she would feel guilty and regrettable. But she would feel totally embarrassed if she were to tell him her ability and things would become totally awkward.

The images of his bare body, and how cool he looked when running his hand on his hair...

Aria quickly shook her head, trying to clear her mind.

"Hmm?"

Adrian noticed Aria's subtle shift in expression, her sudden shake of the head catching his attention. He raised an eyebrow, slightly amused. Was she really okay with him keeping secrets? Or had she just said that to make him feel better? Her calm composure had been impressive, but her little head shake just now hinted at something more.

"Hehe. Cute."

He smiled, suppressing a chuckle. Maybe she had her own secrets too. For example, her own mysterious ability which wasn't even mentioned in the novel.

For a brief moment, Adrian wondered what kind of thoughts were running through her mind, but he quickly pushed that curiosity aside. Whatever it was, they'd both have their moments to share—eventually.

His thoughts drifted to the upcoming event. The final challenge loomed large, and it was time for him to step up his plans. Things had been relatively calm since they handled the sanctuary business, but that wouldn't last long. Something bad was indeed coming, and he needed to be ready.

Adrian's gaze softened as he looked at Aria once more before finishing his meal. 'I guess I have to be extra careful tomorrow,' he thought. A heavy responsibility weighed on him, but he welcomed it. He was prepared.

Because he was a reader who wanted to participate in his last favorite work.

---

The next day, afternoon.

Adrian wiped the sweat from his brow as he finished the last intricate process on the sword he'd been enchanting. He straightened, admiring his handiwork. Just as he did, two familiar foxy ears appeared in his vision. He sighed inwardly, not surprised in the least.

Kiri, the Enchanting Guide Course instructor and the adorable beastwoman with fox ears and a tail, leaned over to inspect his work. Her nose twitched, and her eyes gleamed with satisfaction as she carefully examined the sword's enchantment.

"Great as always," she said with a cute smile, her fox-like features only adding to her charm. "Good job, Adrian."

Adrian nodded, feeling a small sense of accomplishment, though by now, he was used to her praise. "Thanks, Kiri."

She gave him one more approving nod before she turned, her tail swishing lightly behind her as she went to check on the other students. Adrian watched her go, his thoughts wandering for a moment.

'If we were back on Earth,' he mused, 'there'd probably be a line of guys willing to trade places with me right now.' The sheer number of people who would've killed for the chance to have Kiri praise them made him chuckle quietly.

'And I used to like bunny girls, they were more cute and kind...'

'!'

'Ah, damn, my dark past...'

'Begone.'

He quickly shook off the thought.

'Hmm?'

"I know she's really cute, and I shouldn't look at her too much," He muttered.

As if summoned by his words, a cold chuckle came from his side. Adrian's eyes flicked over to see Instructor Sibilus, the snake-eyed beastman, passing by. He didn't stop, but as he walked past, his voice was low, muttering just loud enough for Adrian to hear.

"Glad you know," Sibilus said with a sly smirk.

Adrian grinned to himself, feeling a mix of amusement and slight annoyance at this weird instructor duo. 'Yeah, he looks like a straightforward but passive character, and showing off yet jealous too...' he thought, shaking his head. 'Doesn't he ever get tired of reminding it every time?'

'But... I'll need their help for the upcoming event.'