Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest

"It's the same for me. I won't endanger the people I hold close."

For a brief moment, the room fell into a deep silence, Alden and Maya both caught off guard by Astron's words. Alden's blue eyes widened slightly, not from surprise at Astron's boldness but at the sincerity of his statement.

He had dealt with many people who wielded power and influence, but few were so direct about their intentions, especially when it came to someone as important to him as his sister.

Alden recovered quickly, his sharp gaze softening into something almost thoughtful, though the half-smile from earlier returned. "I see," he said slowly, nodding as if weighing Astron's words in his mind. "Direct, aren't you?"

Meanwhile, Maya felt a sudden warmth rush to her cheeks, her heart skipping a beat as Astron's words echoed in her mind. The people I hold close. She lowered her gaze for a second, her fingers tightening around her fork as she fought to regain her composure. A faint blush spread across her cheeks, though she hoped no one would notice. It wasn't that she was embarrassed by what he had said—it was more the realization of how much Astron's words meant to her. There was an intimacy in his statement that stirred something within her.

Alden noticed the faint shift in his sister's demeanor. His sharp eyes flicked between Maya and Astron, catching the subtle change in her expression. The blush on her cheeks did not go unnoticed. Though he said nothing, his curiosity deepened. There was clearly more between the two than just camaraderie.

'Heh….Little sister. I guess you are no longer a little child….'

He could not help but shake his head inwardly.

'But, this guy is not that bad.'

Alden sat back in his chair, letting the soft smile linger on his lips as he studied his sister and Astron more closely. He had always been protective of Maya, ensuring that the burdens of their family didn't crush her spirit. But now, watching the subtle, almost imperceptible exchange between the two, he understood something he had been reluctant to admit: Maya was no longer the little girl he had always sought to shield. She had grown into a capable woman, one who deserved the chance to experience life on her own terms—even if it meant opening herself up to risks he couldn't control.

Alden took a slow breath, allowing the realization to settle. His gaze softened as he turned his attention back to his sister, noticing the way her eyes flickered between him and Astron, a mixture of resolve and vulnerability in her expression. She had always been strong, but this was different. This wasn't just the strength born of duty or the need to uphold the Evergreen name. This was something deeper, something personal.

"Life and youth," Alden muttered under his breath, more to himself than anyone else. He had been so focused on protecting her that he had nearly forgotten that Maya, too, deserved to experience the joys, the heartbreaks, and the risks that came with living fully.

And perhaps, in Astron, she had found someone who understood her—not just as the sister of Alden Evergreen, but as Maya, an individual in her own right.

Alden shook his head slowly, the soft smile still lingering, though a hint of resignation touched his features. He could see the change in his sister, how much she had grown, and how much she had come to depend on Astron, not just as an ally but as something more. And while his protective instincts hadn't entirely faded, he knew that it was time to let go—at least a little.

Maya, sensing the shift in Alden's demeanor, composed herself. She straightened in her seat, carefully controlling her expression. Her face, once soft with emotion, returned to the calm and poised look she was known for. She had always been good at hiding her deeper feelings, especially around Alden. But now, she wasn't sure if she needed to hide as much. His acceptance, though subtle, was more than she had expected.

Maya, sensing the shift in Alden's demeanor, composed herself. She straightened in her seat, carefully controlling her expression. Her face, once soft with emotion, returned to the calm and poised look she was known for. She had always been good at hiding her deeper feelings, especially around Alden. But now, she wasn't sure if she needed to hide as much. His acceptance, though subtle, was more than she had expected.

Alden glanced between the two of them one last time, a flicker of curiosity still in his eyes. He had uncovered much tonight—more than he had intended—and while there were still questions, particularly about Astron and his true abilities, Alden knew when to press and when to step back. He wasn't done with Astron, not by a long shot, but for now, it was enough.

"Well," he said, his voice steady, "it seems we've talked quite a bit, and I've learned enough for the evening." He pushed his chair back and stood up, adjusting his robes with a deliberate motion. His eyes lingered on Astron for a moment longer, still assessing but less scrutinizing. "I'll leave you two to the rest of your evening."

Maya blinked, surprised by how suddenly her brother was ending the meal, though she quickly masked her reaction. "You're leaving already?" she asked, her voice calm but with a hint of concern.

Alden smiled warmly at her. "I've kept you long enough. And truth be told, I have matters to attend to in the morning. A good night's rest is what I need." He turned toward Astron, giving him a nod. "Though I'm still curious about what you're truly capable of, Astron, that will have to wait. You'll have to forgive me if I leave you with more questions than answers tonight."

Astron met Alden's gaze, his expression composed and respectful. "Of course, Lord Evergreen," he replied smoothly. "There will be plenty of opportunities to address those curiosities in the future."

Alden chuckled softly, appreciating Astron's tactful response. "I'm sure there will be," he said, his voice carrying a subtle weight that hinted at future encounters. "But for now, I'll bid you both good night."

With that, Alden offered one last smile to his sister before turning and making his way out of the room. His steps were steady, and though he seemed calm, there was a part of him that still carried the weight of the evening's revelations. But for now, he needed rest—and time to think.

As the door closed softly behind him, the room fell into a quiet stillness. Maya exhaled softly, a faint sense of relief washing over her now that her brother had left. She glanced across the table at Astron, her expression softening ever so slightly. There was still so much left unspoken between them, so much that had been left simmering beneath the surface throughout the evening.

"Finally," she muttered under her breath, her lips curving into a small, almost weary smile. "I thought he'd never leave."

Astron, ever composed, gave a small nod though there was a hint of amusement in his eyes. "He's thorough, your brother. But I'd say it went better than expected."

Maya couldn't help but laugh softly at that, shaking her head. "You don't know him like I do. This was just the beginning. He'll be watching closely, even if he doesn't say it." She paused for a moment, her gaze softening as she looked at Astron. "But… thank you. For handling him so well. I know it wasn't easy."

Astron's expression didn't change. "It wasn't difficult. Besides, he's only looking out for you."

Maya's heart tightened slightly at those words, but she nodded. "Still… I appreciate it."

Just as the atmosphere between them began to settle, the door creaked open slightly, and Alfred, the Evergreen family's head servant, entered the room with his usual composed demeanor. He gave a respectful bow, his expression polite yet unreadable, as always.

"Pardon the interruption," Alfred said smoothly, his voice low and respectful. "But I wished to inquire if there was anything else you required. Desserts and tea are prepared, should you wish to partake."

Maya glanced at Astron, a moment of silent communication passing between them. She could sense that the evening's discussions, while more relaxed now, were far from over. There were still things she needed to say, things she wanted to address without the shadow of her brother looming over them.

She gave a soft nod, her eyes flickering back to Alfred. "Yes, desserts would be lovely. Thank you, Alfred."

Maya stood up gracefully, smoothing her dress as she glanced back at Alfred. "Bring the desserts to the garden, please," she requested, her voice calm yet decisive.

Alfred bowed respectfully. "Of course, my lady. I will have them brought out shortly." Without missing a beat, he turned to carry out her instructions, his movements fluid and efficient.

As he left, Maya turned to Astron, her eyes soft but carrying the weight of unspoken thoughts. She gestured for him to follow her. "Let's take a walk," she said quietly, her voice now free from the formal tone she had used all evening.

Astron rose from his seat, his movements smooth and deliberate, as he followed her toward the large doors leading to the family's expansive garden. The cool evening air greeted them as they stepped outside, the soft glow of lanterns illuminating the path ahead. The garden was serene, a peaceful retreat from the intensity of the evening's conversation, with the subtle scent of jasmine and roses wafting through the air.

Maya led him down the path; her footsteps quiet against the stone. After a few moments of walking in silence, she finally spoke, her voice much softer now.

As they strolled through the garden, Maya finally broke the silence, her voice soft but carrying a hint of curiosity. "So, regarding the banquet… Is everything in order on your end?" she asked, casting a sideways glance at Astron. "You know it's this Wednesday."

Astron nodded calmly, his expression composed. "Nearly everything is ready," he said, his voice steady. "The final details are falling into place."

Maya smiled at his response but couldn't resist teasing him. "And your suit?" she asked, her tone light, but there was a knowing look in her eyes.

Without missing a beat, Astron reached into his storage ring and pulled out a neatly folded suit. It was sharp, sleek, and efficient—much like him. But as Maya looked at it, her smile turned into a small, amused shake of her head.

"This won't do," she said, her tone carrying a hint of playful disapproval.

Astron raised an eyebrow but remained silent for a moment as if weighing his next words carefully. Finally, he spoke with a faint sigh, "Is it too low in quality for someone attending as your aide?"

Maya nodded, a soft smile playing on her lips. "As expected, you didn't miss the point. Yes, it's not quite fitting for someone accompanying me." She glanced at the suit again, knowing Astron had probably chosen it for practicality and efficiency rather than appearances. "We'll need something more fitting for the occasion."

Astron didn't seem bothered by the critique. Instead, he simply nodded, his tone calm as always. "I understand. What do you suggest?"

"Tomorrow," Maya said, her smile widening, "we'll go to the city and visit our family's exclusive tailor. He'll create something custom for you. Something that matches the importance of this banquet."

Astron glanced at her, the moonlight casting a soft glow on his features as he thought it over. "A custom suit?" He wasn't one for extravagant displays, but he understood the importance of appearances, especially in a setting like this. "Very well. If that's what's needed."

Maya chuckled softly, appreciating his straightforwardness. "Trust me, it'll be worth it. And while we are at it, I might as well give a tour for you; wouldn't that be great?"

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