Chapter 280: Favourite child

Words : 2785 Updated : Oct 1st, 2025

Noah opened his eyes to a room bathed in the pale blue glow of multiple holographic displays. His mind was still foggy from sleep, but the familiar hum of electronic equipment told him one thing before he even sat up—Kelvin was already hard at work. "Morning, sleeping beauty," Kelvin's cheerful voice broke through the quiet. He sat cross-legged on the floor, surrounded by at least six floating screens, his fingers dancing across virtual keyboards. "I was starting to think you might sleep through the entire finals." Noah groaned and pushed himself upright, feeling a strange new lightness that swirled inside him. "What time is it?" "Seven thirty-two and seventeen seconds," Kelvin replied without looking at a clock. "And before you ask, yes, I've been up all night. And no, I don't need sleep. Sleep is for the weak and the non-technopathic." Noah rubbed his eyes. "You know that's not how biology works, right?" "Says the guy who can summon interdimensional dragons," Kelvin shot back with a grin. He swiped one screen away and pulled another closer. "Anyway, surveillance is solid. I've been monitoring everything—security rotations, communications, energy signatures. Minister Reign isn't messing around with security today. He's got triple the usual personnel, advanced scanning systems, even brought in some deployed soldiers from the front lines back. I'm talking the guys that have seen what a Harbinger can and will do. I'm sorry for any Purge operative that will get in their way" Noah frowned, a thought that had been nagging at him all night resurfacing. "About Reign... something doesn't feel right." Kelvin paused his typing. "What do you mean? Lucas vetted him. We're working with him." "Yeah, but..." Noah sat on the edge of his bed, organizing his thoughts. "Look, I don't want to go all detective on Sophie, but she did cover up the whole Purge thing because she heard her mother might be making an appearance, right? She wanted to see her." "Right..." Kelvin said slowly, seeing where Noah was headed. "So who's to say Reign wouldn't do the same thing? Compromise everything just for a chance to see his wife again—the woman who left him alone with a young daughter to join an evil organization." Noah's voice hardened. "People do desperate things for family." Kelvin considered this, his usual jokes momentarily set aside. "That's... actually a good point. But he's been working with us so far. And like I said, Lucas vetted him. We have to trust the number one, right?" "Yeah..." Noah agreed, but without conviction. "Something about all of this just feels off. The planned attack at the finals, that whole underground operation we ran against the Purge without so much as hearing a cough back from the Rowes. It's too quiet." Kelvin's eyes widened. "Oh wait, is that what this is about? Are you scared of your supervillain in-laws?" "What? No—" "Because you knew what you were getting into when you decided to sleep with their daughter," Kelvin continued, building momentum. "A known psycho, I might add. And now her parents kidnapped me, fed me nothing but lettuce for two days—do you have any idea what that does to a person's digestive system? I am like a methane factory like...right now!! And let's not forget—" "Kelvin," Noah interrupted, fighting back a smile despite the seriousness of the situation. "—that they probably have a whole slideshow prepared for the 'hurt our daughter and we'll atomize you' talk, except instead of embarrassing baby photos, it's probably surveillance footage of you sleeping—" "Kelvin!" The technopath finally stopped, taking a deep breath. "Sorry. I get ranty when I've been awake for thirty-six hours straight." He adjusted his glasses. "But seriously, do you think Reign might be compromised?" Noah sighed. "I don't know. Just... keep an eye on him today. Something doesn't feel right." "I'm already tracking his communications and location," Kelvin admitted. "Been doing it since we got back from the mountain. Nothing suspicious so far, but..." He trailed off, then straightened his shoulders. "I've got your back. If something doesn't feel right today, I'll scream wolf... or purge... or whatever the appropriate alarm word is for 'my best friend's girlfriend's dad might be secretly helping terrorists.'" Noah snorted. "Thanks. I appreciate it." Kelvin nodded, then suddenly remembered something. "Oh, by the way, I found something interesting about our favorite terrorist power couple." "The Rowes? Lila's parents?" "The very same." Kelvin pulled up a new screen showing security footage. "I did some digging—which may or may not have involved borrowing access to classified EDF databases—and found something strange. Their attack pattern changed exactly six months ago." "Changed how?" "Before that, they were targeting military infrastructure, weapons depots, communication arrays. Standard anti-EDF stuff. But after? They've exclusively hit academies," Kelvin paused dramatically. "And specifically, research wings studying awakened abilities." Noah felt a chill that had nothing to do with his void energy. "Why the change? Why now?" "That's the million-credit question, isn't it?" Kelvin's face grew serious. "I don't think it's coincidence that your 'additional romantic interest who isn't Sophie' happens to be the daughter of the two most wanted terrorists in the Eastern sector AND happens to be competing in the same tournament where they might show up." Noah thought of Lila. He hadn't seen her since the semi-finals, right before Kelvin had been kidnapped and everything spiraled into chaos. "Have you seen Lila since the semis?" Noah asked, voicing his thoughts. "Nope. She's probably in isolation like all the other finalists," Kelvin replied. "But don't worry, she's definitely on the roster for today," The roster wasn't something Noah had been paying that much attention to since the kelvin saga. He just knew he was in the finals and that was all that mattered to him. It didn't matter who he was going to face because he was in the finals. Noah nodded, then suddenly remembered something else. "Wait—what about that body? In Sophie's room yesterday? The one with that weird face?" Kelvin's expression didn't change, but something subtle shifted in his posture. "I handled it." "You... handled it." Noah stared at his friend. "Care to elaborate?" "Not particularly." Kelvin smiled pleasantly. A shiver ran down Noah's spine. Sometimes he forgot that behind Kelvin's cheerful demeanor and endless chatter was a mind that could interface with any technology, bypass any security system, and erase any digital footprint. The son of Webb Pithon, arms tycoon extraordinaire, had resources and skills that went far beyond what most people suspected. "You know, you're actually terrifying sometimes," Noah said. "Aww, that's the nicest thing you've said to me all week!" Kelvin beamed, immediately bouncing back to his usual self. "Now, about your match today—I've analyzed all your previous previous fights," As Kelvin rattled off statistics and strategy suggestions, Noah's mind drifted to the real challenge ahead. Not the tournament, but what would come after—the Purge attack, confronting potential betrayal from within, and somehow protecting everyone at the event. And through it all, figuring out what his evolution to Void Oracle truly meant. "—and that's why I think you should avoid direct energy confrontation in the first three minutes," Kelvin was saying. "What? Sorry, I zoned out," Noah admitted. Kelvin sighed dramatically. "Unbelievable. I stay up all night creating the perfect battle strategy, and you're daydreaming about your dragon boyfriends." "They're not—" Noah started, then saw Kelvin's mischievous grin. "You're impossible." "And yet, indispensable," Kelvin quipped, tossing Noah a nutrient bar. "Eat this. I calibrated it specifically for you. Should give you all the strenght you need to two time two beautiful girls with powerful backgrounds, handle two mythical creatures and still win us the freaking tournament!!" Noah caught it one-handed. "You made me breakfast?" "I made you scientifically optimized performance fuel," Kelvin corrected. "Also, I may have borrowed some equipment from the academy labs to analyze your energy signature while you were sleeping." "Of course you did." Noah unwrapped the bar and took a bite. It tasted surprisingly good—sweet with a hint of something he couldn't identify. "So, you ready to reveal your true power level today?" Kelvin asked, suddenly serious. "The whole 'oops, I just had a power awakening mid-battle' plan is pretty risky." Noah nodded, feeling the void energy pulse within him. "I don't have much choice. If the Purge attacks during the finals, I can't hold back. And this way at least I have plausible deniability." "War crimes are so inconvenient that way," Kelvin said with mock solemnity, then laughed at Noah's expression. "Relax! If anyone can pull off a fake awakening, it's you, Mr. SSS-ranked Void Summoner." "Oracle," Noah corrected. "Void Oracle," "Right, right. Still getting used to your fancy title." Kelvin stood and stretched, finally showing signs of his all-night vigil. "I should get ready too. Can't have my best friend revealing his true cosmic powers without me there to document it for posterity." As Kelvin gathered his gear, Noah closed his eyes and reached out with his senses, feeling the connections to Storm and Nyx, his companions waiting in the void. Today would change everything—his public identity, his standing in the academy, perhaps even the future of the war against the Harbingers. "Hey," Kelvin said, pausing at the door. "Whatever happens today... we've got this. You, me, Lucas, Sophie. We're going to protect everyone and expose anyone who betrays us, whether it's Reign or someone else." Noah looked at his friend—rumpled clothes, messy hair, eyes bright despite his exhaustion—and felt a surge of gratitude. "I know," he said simply. "Let's go make some noise." Kelvin's grin was bright enough to rival one of Lucas's lightning blasts. "That's what I like to hear! Time to show the world what a real Alpha class can do." As they headed out to face the day, Noah couldn't help but wonder if Lila was thinking about him too, preparing for her own matches, unaware of her parents' connection to everything that was about to unfold. ____ Meanwhile, in one of the fine suites of the Nexus Arena, a gentle knock preceded the opening of double doors as two figures stepped into the room with the casual confidence of those accustomed to luxury. Mr. and Mrs. Rowe entered with measured steps, their posture impeccable despite the early hour. Mrs. Rowe's emerald gown whispered against the floor as she moved, jewels adorning her neck catching the light with each step. Her husband adjusted his platinum cufflinks, the fabric of his tailored suit whispering expensive promises with each movement. "Darling, are the preparations complete?" Mrs. Rowe spoke first, her voice carrying the polished elocution of expensive education. Despite her elegant appearance, there was a hint of deference in her tone, unusual for someone of her commanding presence. "Security protocols are in place. Our people are positioned," Mr. Rowe added, his voice smooth yet unexpectedly gentle. He seemed to be choosing his words carefully, almost cautiously. Their attention fixed on the young woman seated at the vanity, her back to them as she gazed into an ornate mirror. She appeared lost in thought, fingers absently tracing the contours of her reflection. She wore a form-fitting tournament uniform that hugged her curves, the Academy 12 insignia prominent on her shoulder. "How are you feeling this morning, my dear? I love what you did with the hair~" Mrs. Rowe said, her tone softening considerably, hovering near the girl but not quite daring to touch her. "Mother. Father." She acknowledged them with a slight nod, her voice melodic but with an edge that made both Rowes straighten imperceptibly. Mr. Rowe approached her, though he maintained a respectful distance. "Today is significant, daughter. The culmination of years of planning." He hesitated, then added with uncharacteristic uncertainty, "Are you ready to make us proud?" She stood with fluid grace, walking toward the king-sized bed where a precious Siamese cat lay curled among the pillows. This was one of the rarest native breeds of animals still present in this Harbinger incursion. With gentle hands, she lifted the feline, cradling it against her chest as she stroked its fur. The cat purred loudly, nuzzling against her. "When have I ever let you down?" she asked, a hint of amusement in her voice as she turned to face them. The Rowes exchanged glances, both smiling with an eagerness that bordered on obsequious. "Never, of course," Mrs. Rowe said quickly, smoothing her already perfect dress. "You've always exceeded our expectations, haven't you? We just want to ensure you have everything you need." "Your comfort is our priority," Mr. Rowe added, reaching into his jacket to produce a small velvet box. "We brought you something. A token for today's success." The dark-haired girl accepted the box with her free hand, opening it to reveal an exquisite black pearl pendant. Her expression remained neutral, but she nodded once in approval. "How thoughtful," she said, her tone making it unclear whether she was genuinely pleased or merely tolerating their gesture. "You'll help me put it on?" Mrs. Rowe practically leapt forward. "Of course, darling! It will look absolutely divine with your tournament attire." As Mrs. Rowe fastened the necklace, her hands trembled slightly—whether from excitement or nervousness wasn't clear. "The first matches begin in two hours," Mr. Rowe said, checking an expensive watch. "The EDF's security will be focused on the main arena. We'll make our move during the Year 3 finals when that Smoak boy and Grey are occupied with each other." "And what of him? The first year ...Noah Eclipse?" the girl asked, her expression neutral despite the pointed question. Her parents exchanged a meaningful glance, a flash of concern crossing their faces. "Leave him to us," Mrs. Rowe stated, trying to sound firm but unable to mask a note of apprehension. "Your role is clear, and it doesn't involve personal entanglements." The daughter's lips curved into a smile that didn't reach her eyes. "Of course. Personal feelings have no place in our work." "That's our girl," her father said with relief evident in his voice. "We'll leave you to your final preparations. Is there anything else you require?" The dark-haired girl considered for a moment. "Privacy," she said simply. The Rowes nodded quickly, almost bowing as they backed toward the door. "Of course, of course," Mrs. Rowe effused. "We'll be just down the hall if you need anything at all—anything whatsoever." As they turned to leave, Mrs. Rowe paused at the door. "You look quite striking with dark hair. Perhaps you should consider keeping it." The door closed behind them, leaving the young woman alone with the cat. She walked to the far wall of the suite, approaching what appeared to be a decorative mirror mounted in an ornate frame. She pressed her palm against its surface. "They've gone," she announced to the seemingly empty room. "Pathetic how they grovel, isn't it? Hard to believe these two are whom they claim they are," The mirror's surface rippled like disturbed water, and suddenly the reflection changed—revealing not the dark-haired young woman, but a desperate blonde frantically pounding her fists against the glass from the other side. Her mouth moved in silent screams, tears streaking her face as she begged for release. The real Lila, trapped in whatever space lay beyond the mirror with her eyes wild with fear and rage. The dark-haired impostor leaned closer to the mirror, watching the genuine article's desperate struggle with clinical interest. "Save your strength," she advised coolly. "You'll be free once we've accomplished what we came to do." Behind her, Mr. and Mrs. Rowe had silently re-entered the room. They stood watching their captive daughter's futile struggle, exchanging nervous smiles. "She always did have a flair for the dramatic," Mrs. Rowe remarked with a forced chuckle, her eyes darting periodically to the dark-haired girl's back. "Now, Mira, remember, you need to perfectly mimic her powers in the arena," The dark-haired girl,Mira—nodded, never taking her eyes off the trapped Lila. "Don't worry," she said, as a small object on the dresser began to float upward, suspended perfectly motionless in the air. "No one will know the difference until it's far too late."

Chapter 280: Favourite child

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