Evolution begins with an ant colony

"Oh, shut up, brainiac! I said I'm bringing her, and that's final!" Before Lucius could finish, Kiren cut him off. Her voice echoed through the hallway.

Lucius's eyes narrowed in irritation. "How many times have I told you to stop calling me that? It's incredibly rude!" he snapped, his usual composed demeanor slipping.

Kiren rolled her eyes, crossing her arms defiantly. "Brainiac, stop trying to use your dumb logic in everything we do. You should learn to live a little more spontaneously."

"Live more spontaneously? And end up like a brain-dead barbarian like you? No, thanks," Lucius shot back, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

"What did you call me, brainiac?" Kiren yelled, her hair seeming to crackle with her fiery mana.

Their argument escalated, each trading verbal jabs and raised voices, filling the hallway with their heated exchange.

Maira, watching as they yelled back-and-forth, couldn't help but chuckle lightly. She stepped between them, holding up her hands to separate the two. "Alright, that's enough," she said with a smile, trying to diffuse the tension. "Lucius, bringing Calatica with us might help her ease her mind too. It won't hurt to have her join us."

Lucius looked at Maira, then back at Kiren, who was still glaring at him. He let out a sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose as he gave in. "Fine," he muttered, clearly reluctant but listening to Maira's point. "Calatica can come along."

Kiren smirked triumphantly and turned to Calatica, who had been watching the exchange with a small smile on her face. "Come on, Calatica. You need a break just as much as the rest of us."

Calatica hesitated for a moment, then nodded, a small smile spreading on her lips. "Alright," she said softly, following them out of the building.

As they stepped out into the busy streets of Marlia, the warm afternoon sun bathed the city in a golden hue. The lively atmosphere and vibrant energy of the capital was very different when compared to the tense discussions that had taken place moments before.

Calatica walked alongside Lucius, glancing at him with a thoughtful expression. She hesitated briefly before speaking, her voice sincere. "Lucius, thank you. I know you were looking out for me, trying to make sure I don't get too overwhelmed."

Lucius sighed, adjusting his monocle and looking slightly uncomfortable with the gratitude. "If you really want to show your appreciation, Calatica, then pull yourself together. Stop being such a crybaby when it comes to Aric. It makes you look weak, and you're supposed to be our vice-captain. We need your strength, not your tears."

Calatica chuckled softly at his blunt response, a look of amusement in her eyes. "I'll try, Lucius, but no promises. It's hard not to get emotional when it comes to Aric."

Just then, Kiren, who had been listening in from a few steps away, leaned in with a teasing grin. "Wait, was that really your intention, brainiac? No way! I thought you just wanted to be a meanie."

Lucius turned to her, he was clearly irritated. "The sooner you drop that ridiculous nickname, the sooner your brain capacity will increase," he replied, his voice dripping with frustration. "And maybe then you'll start to understand these 'complex actions' of mine."

Kiren laughed, clearly enjoying the banter. "Oh, come on, Lucius. Admit it, you love it when I call you brainiac. It keeps things interesting."

Lucius shook his head, a small, reluctant smile spreading at the corners of his mouth. "I can assure you, Kiren, I do not enjoy it. But I suppose if it helps you process things in that fiery head of yours, I can endure it."

Orion, walking a few paces ahead, turned back and chuckled at the playful exchange. "Alright, you two. Let's focus on enjoying the city and finding some of those famous Marlia snacks. We've got a few hours before nightfall."

Maira and Elysia, walking side by side, nodded in agreement. "I've heard they have amazing street food here," Maira said, her eyes lighting up.

As the group continued down the lively streets, the sounds of vendors calling out their wares and the smell of delicious food wafting through the air began to lift their spirits. Despite the heavy burdens each of them carried, the simple act of being together in this moment, sharing laughter and teasing, brought a sense of normalcy and camaraderie. Continue your adventure at My Virtual Library Empire

Kiren, always filled with energy, led the way toward the market stalls. "Come on, everyone! Let's see what kind of treats this place has to offer. I'm starving!"

….

Meanwhile…

Meanwhile, back in the Holy Empire, the sun began its descent, casting long shadows over the grand spires of the Imperial Academy. The day had been filled with turmoil and revelations, and now Akun and his companions were preparing to leave the academy grounds.

Akun had managed to navigate the situation surrounding Aric's sudden disappearance. When questioned by the principal, he had explained that the boy they had seen earlier was not truly present, but rather an elaborate illusion spell manipulated remotely using a sophisticated magic tool.

His calm demeanor and convincing explanation left little room for doubt, and after a period of deliberation, the academy reluctantly accepted his account.

As they reached the outer courtyard, Akun paused, his gaze lingering on the towering statue of the first emperor, a symbol of the academy's long-standing legacy. It reminded him of the responsibilities and burdens he now carried, not just for himself but for those who depended on him.

Waiting near the academy's gates was the knight captain, his stern face softened slightly as he saw Akun approach. The captain had been briefed on the situation and had a vested interest in Akun's next moves.

"Sir Akun," the knight captain greeted, his voice calm and respectful. "I'm relieved to see that the situation was resolved without further trouble. The academy's council is still puzzled, but they trust your word."

Akun tilted his head slightly. "Thank you, Captain. I appreciate your understanding and support. I intend to visit the castle later to discuss how I can join your efforts to push back the demons threatening your lands."