Chapter 45: THE CAPITAL’S WHISPERED CORRUPTION
As they settled into the wagon for the evening’s travel, Yomi found himself impressed by the merchant’s foresight in preparing for dangerous journeys. Cushioned benches that converted to sleeping areas, a well-stocked food chest, and even a small library of books for entertainment during long journeys. It was luxury compared to their recent travels.
Thomas proved to be an unexpected source of information, his privileged upbringing having exposed him to exactly the kind of knowledge Yomi needed. "I actually attended Astralux Academy for a year," the boy said with a mixture of pride and embarrassment. "Didn’t work out, unfortunately. No backer to help with the advanced courses, and I didn’t have the natural talent to attract one on my own."
"What’s the structure like?" Lirien asked, genuinely curious. "The academy, I mean."
"Seven Sanctums," Thomas replied, his eyes lighting up with the enthusiasm of someone eager to share knowledge. "Each one focuses on different disciplines, though they don’t advertise exactly what. Very secretive about their curricula." He leaned forward conspiratorially. "Registration only happens twice a year, and the next session starts in two days. They’re very particular about timing."
Aeloria, who had been listening quietly while enjoying the comfortable seating, looked up with interest. "What kind of entry requirements?"
"Depends on what you can offer," Thomas said with the practical wisdom of someone who had learned hard lessons about social hierarchy. "Noble birth helps, but they’ll accept anyone who can pay the fees or demonstrate exceptional ability. The real challenge is finding a backer within the academy itself, someone willing to sponsor your advanced studies."
The conversation continued as their wagon rolled through the forest roads, the reinforced wheels handling the rough terrain with ease. Elena shared stories of capital politics, while Marcus provided detailed information about various districts and guild hierarchies. All of it potentially useful for someone planning to navigate the city’s complex social structure.
But it was when the conversation turned to recent events that Yomi’s attention sharpened. "There have been... unsettling rumors from the capital," Marcus said quietly, glancing at his family before continuing. "Noble houses suddenly changing their allegiances, trade agreements being broken without explanation. Some say certain families have been acting strangely, as if they’re answering to different masters now."
The implication hung heavy in the air. If apostles were indeed operating within the capital’s noble houses, then the corruption might run deeper than the System had indicated. Yomi filed the information away, already beginning to formulate plans for his investigation.
As the night deepened and the wagon continued its steady progress toward the capital, the group settled into a comfortable routine. Kira curled up beside Yomi, her small form relaxed in a way that spoke of genuine security for perhaps the first time in her young life. Aeloria found herself actually enjoying the civilized travel conditions, while Lirien peppered Thomas with questions about combat training opportunities at the academy.
But it was Yomi who remained most alert, his senses extended beyond the wagon to monitor their surroundings while his mind processed the evening’s revelations. The Dark Hold’s interest in the academy, the systematic targeting of trade routes, the references to awakening something called the Progenitor, all of it painted a picture of a conspiracy that went far beyond simple cultism.
The System’s voice echoed in his mind as the capital’s lights became visible on the horizon.