A Background Character’s Path to Power

"Actually—that might work even better! They could play dual roles—first 'summoning' the beasts, then appearing as mysterious heroes who drive them off! The perfect cover!"

Virion stared at me. Then, to my surprise, he began laughing—that deep, echoing chuckle that usually meant either approval or impending doom.

"Oh, you clever little schemer," he purred, floating closer. "Using my turtles as both villains and heroes in your little play?" His grin turned sharp. "I almost want to say yes just to see the looks on their shells when I tell them."

I matched his grin. "So it's a yes?"

Virion hummed, his tail flicking thoughtfully as he studied me. Then, with a slow nod, he said, "Alright, you can go with the plan. I'll lend you the turtles when the time comes." His grin returned, sharp with mischief. "You can also discuss it with Dono if you want—after the training tomorrow."

I nodded, my earlier excitement now tempered by practicality. The plan was just a rough idea—there were holes in it, risks I hadn't fully considered. But Dono's mind and experience could help refine it, turn it into something airtight.

"Good," I said, exhaling. "I'll talk to him."

Virion waved a clawed hand, and the air beside us shimmered, splitting open into a swirling portal. Beyond it, I could just make out the familiar walls of my dorm room.

"Go on," he said, his voice lighter now, back to his usual teasing tone. "Before I change my mind and drop you into a pit of snow serpents instead."

I rolled my eyes but couldn't suppress a smirk. "See you tomorrow then, Master."

With that, I stepped through the portal—

—and the frozen forest vanished behind me, replaced by the warmth of my quarters. The sudden shift from biting cold to stillness made my skin prickle.