Chapter 36. Velmira Saravelle
Elara, standing at the center, met his gaze. Her expression faltered, unsure, as if she was trying to decide how to react. Leo's crimson eyes met hers briefly before drifting away.
Haa, déjà vu, he thought dryly, pulling his book into view. Without a word, the group parted, creating a narrow path for him to pass.
Leo smiled faintly, and continued forward without pause. The tension in the air was almost palpable as he walked past. But before he could fully distance himself, a voice called out.
"Leonhardt, wait."
He stopped mid-step, the voice halting him more out of familiarity than anything else. He didn't turn around. He didn't need to. He already knew who it belonged to.
Astrid, standing nearby, looked at Elara with confusion. "What are you doing?" she asked, her tone a mix of surprise and curiosity.
Elara ignored her, taking a small step forward. "I just wanted to congratulate you on your fight yesterday," she said, her voice clear but carrying a hint of hesitancy. "You did... well."
Leo remained still for a moment, his back still turned to her. He raised a hand in acknowledgment, his tone polite but distant. "Thanks," he said simply, before continuing on his way.
As he walked, his thoughts churned. Of course, you'd say that, he mused, his expression unreadable. Because you... you're the most important one in the list of making Leonhardt's miserable.
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Leo walked into the classroom, and the noise stopped fast, like someone hit mute. Everyone went quiet, eyes dropping—some scared, some amazed. Leonhardt Caulem, the weakest kid in Bronze Class a few weeks ago, was now their leader, a name buzzing with power.