Chapter 105
“To purify the entire Black Continent, we need your strength,” Karen said, referring to the same power that had cleansed the Fortnen Kingdom. Elena understood what the Archmage meant.
“So, Elena, I need you to lead a group of elite mages to the Black Continent.”
This was not an issue for Elena.
‘But I can’t give a quick answer…’
The reason was that Elena’s body still retained some of the power Henus had left her, but even with that and her own abilities, purifying the entire continent would be a lengthy process. The power would need to be fully replenished and used repeatedly.
‘Even with elite mages accompanying me…’
It would likely take at least two months. Under normal circumstances, Elena would have made the decision immediately, but she was concerned about Lexion.
“Of course, I don’t expect you to leave right away. Departure is in four days. You can use this time as you wish.”
Four days of free time. At that, Elena nodded.
“All right.”
*****
Although it was said to depart in four days, it was already quite late today, leaving Elena with only three days.
‘I need to spend this time with Lexion.’
With a soft smile, she quickly made her way to the lab, her thoughts solely on Lexion.
‘Lexion must have been so worried waiting for me.’
As soon as Elena reached the lab, she stepped through the portal. She wasn’t sure if Lexion was in his office, but when she entered, it was dark and empty.
‘Well, he’s not likely to be working this late.’
It was understandable given the late hour and the bright moon outside. Additionally, with Lexion’s workload reduced, it was unlikely he would be working so late.
‘Still, I miss you, Lexion.’
Nevertheless, her concerns were fleeting as she left the office and walked carefully down the dimly lit hallway until she reached Lexion’s bedroom.
Elena had planned to knock if she saw light leaking through the crack in the door, but the room was dark. Hence, carefully, she opened the door and entered.
As she expected, Lexion was sound asleep on the bed. Elena approached quietly, making sure to silence her footsteps and breathing. Fortunately, Lexion remained asleep as she drew closer.
She sat gently on the edge of the bed and gazed at Lexion’s peaceful face.
‘You look so beautiful even while you sleep.’
Though the room was dark, the bright moonlight illuminated his features, making him appear especially beautiful tonight.
‘No, he’s always beautiful.’
A small smile formed on Elena’s lips as she continued to look at him. After a while, she slowly extended her hand and touched Lexion’s golden hair. The softness of his hair felt like silk beneath her fingers.
She let her fingers trail down to his cheek. Then, feeling a bit more daring…
Kiss.
Elena pressed a light kiss onto Lexion’s cheek.
‘Kissing someone while they’re asleep…’
Suddenly, she felt like a pervert.
She instinctively pulled away from Lexion and began to get out of bed.
“Ugh….”
But her arm was caught.
At that moment, Elena lost her balance and fell forward, too startled to even scream.
“Le– Lexion?”
When she regained her senses, she found herself in Lexion’s arms.
“Elena, I missed you.”
Lexion’s firm arms wrapped around her waist, drawing her closer.
“Lexion, were you awake? How long have you been awake?” Elena asked, bewildered.
“When you came near, I felt your breath. I wanted to hold you right away, but I was curious about what you would do, so I waited.”
Lexion’s breath against her ear felt unusually warm.
“But when you kissed me and tried to leave, I couldn’t resist.”
Elena’s heart raced from his deep voice and the warm breath against her. At the same time, Lexion’s lips brushed against her forehead.
“Are you hurt anywhere?”
He kissed her face repeatedly.
“No, I’m okay.”
“That’s a relief.”
Lexion continued to speak, gently stroking her neck and shoulders.
“If you were hurt, I wouldn’t have been able to bear it. Thank you for coming back safely.”
He kissed her collarbone several times, their gazes locked together.
“I love you, Elena.”
In Lexion’s eyes, Elena saw so much—his entire heart and desire for her. Moved by this, she kissed him first without realizing it.
*****
Elena felt the warm sunlight streaming onto her face.
“Uh…”
She blinked her eyes slowly, trying to wake up.
‘Is it early morning… or late morning?’
What began with her kiss the previous night had continued until dawn.
‘It must be late in the morning now.’
Elena stretched out her tired body and yawned.
‘Lexion had such stamina…’
Her cheeks flushed red at the sudden memory of the previous night. She glanced around, noting that the space next to her was empty.
‘Lexion always takes care of me first.’
With a smile, Elena got up. Lexion’s bedroom was as neat as ever, a reflection of his meticulous nature.
As she looked around, the bedroom door opened, and a tray was brought in.
“You’re awake?”
Lexion hadn’t been up for long so his voice was lower than usual; and his eyes, which had seemed so intense the night before, now looked friendly and familiar.
“Yes. But Lexion, what’s with this?”
The tray Lexion carried was filled with food.
‘This is enough to make my stomach explode….’
When Elena’s eyes widened in surprise, Lexion gave her a soft smile.
“I intended to prepare something, but it was already done. Everyone was eager to serve you delicious food.”
“Really? Thank you so much.”
While they spoke, Lexion set the meal on a table in a corner of the bedroom. He then walked over to Elena, who was sitting on the bed, and extended his hand.
Elena took his hand, feeling her heart race.
‘He has such good manners, even in the smallest things.’
It was one of the reasons she couldn’t help but love him.
Elena sat at the table, with Lexion taking the seat across from her. As always, he carefully plated her food and handed it to her.
“Thank you.”
Elena said to him and began eating. The food, prepared by the Halos estate, was excellent as always, making her feel as if the fatigue from the battle was melting away.
As Elena ate, she recounted the events of the expedition.
“Actually, there was a sudden monster invasion in the Fortnen Kingdom.”
“Ah, I see,” Lexion replied with a serious expression.
Elena shared everything she had experienced, including details about Killian Halos. Upon hearing Killian’s name, Lexion’s demeanor stiffened slightly.
“Killian will be purified from black magic in the Magic Tower and have him pay for his sins.”
Elena’s firm resolve prompted Lexion to nod in agreement.
“All right. Do as you wish. Your will is mine.”
“Thank you for understanding.”
Once their conversation about the expedition concluded, and after finishing the meal, Elena took a sip of water and began to broach a new topic.
“Lexion, there’s something important I need to tell you.”
“What is it?”
Lexion’s expression grew serious at Elena’s unusual tone.
Elena continued with a rueful smile.
“I’ve decided to assist the wizards in purifying the black magic on the Black Continent and will be leading a group of wizards there.”
Lexion was silent for a moment, processing her words.
“When will you be back?” he finally asked.
“Probably in at least two months.”
Lexion’s face grew more serious, and concern was evident in his eyes.
Elena quickly added, “Don’t worry too much; there’s no immediate threat.”
Previously, the Warlock’s Black Tower had been inhabited by a few individuals: Henus’ soul, Killian, and Lupes. Henus had already returned to his rightful place, and Killian and Lupes were imprisoned in the tower.
Even if there were more of the Warlock’s minions left, Elena and the elite wizards would be able to handle them.
‘Besides, after receiving Henus’ power, I’ve become immune to spirits.’
Elena had learned this from Gor and the other spirits shortly after defeating the Warlock. That’s why she had agreed to the mission.
She glanced at Lexion, who was observing her intently. He sighed softly.
“Hah… I see.”
Reluctantly, Lexion raised his hands in acquiescence.
