抖阴社区

Chapter 31: Shadows Behind the Curtain

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The dark fortress stood in silence, shrouded by dense, unnatural mist that veiled it from even the keenest eyes. Within its cold stone walls, a lone chamber pulsed faintly with an ominous crimson glow.

A hooded figure loomed over an intricate magical array etched into the floor. The runes pulsed in rhythm with the figure's deliberate movements, casting a hellish glow on their shadowed form. Black mist swirled at their feet, flickering with faint sparks of corrupted magic.

The figure stretched a gloved hand over a pulsating black orb suspended in the array's center. It writhed and shimmered, as if alive, responding to the presence of its master.

???: "The devils have grown complacent. Their grip weakens as they wallow in comfort and hubris."

The figure's distorted voice echoed through the chamber, cold and unyielding.

???: "Their peace has lasted too long. Let us remind them of the darkness they've tried so hard to forget."

With a sudden motion, the figure plunged their hand into the black orb. A wave of dark energy erupted outward, extinguishing the chamber's crimson light. For a moment, the room was silent—empty, devoid of life or sound—before faint, chilling laughter resonated from the shadows.

???: "Let the chaos begin."

Kuoh Academy – ORC Clubroom

The Occult Research Clubroom bathed in the orange hues of the setting sun, painting long, jagged shadows across its opulent interior. The atmosphere was oddly calm, though the tension among its occupants was palpable.

Y/n sat lazily in a plush chair, spinning a piece of chalk between his fingers with practiced ease. Koneko sat on his lap, leaning into him with the casual indifference of someone used to such closeness. In contrast, Issei paced by the window, glancing between them and the others with growing frustration.

Issei: "Seriously, what's the deal with you two? Can't you sit... I don't know... normally?"

Y/n smirked without missing a beat, catching the chalk mid-air.

Y/n: "Define 'normal.' You're jealous, aren't you?"

Koneko, without looking up from her snack, added in her usual monotone:

Koneko: "Hnn."

Issei threw his hands up in exasperation.

Issei: "Jealous?! Of what?!"

Y/n: "Me, obviously. I mean, look at you—standing there all awkward and pent up. Meanwhile, I've got this."

He gestured at Koneko, who, unbothered by the exchange, continued munching on a bag of mochi.

Issei: "Tch! You're so full of yourself!"

Y/n leaned forward slightly, resting his chin on his free hand as his crimson eyes gleamed with mischief.

Y/n: "Not full of myself. Just confident. Maybe you should try it sometime."

Rias, seated elegantly behind her desk, finally broke her silence, her authoritative voice cutting through the argument like a blade.

Rias: "Enough, both of you! We have more important matters to deal with."

Her crimson hair shimmered in the golden light, her commanding presence instantly drawing the room's attention.

Rias: "The Underworld is facing an unprecedented crisis. We cannot afford distractions."

Akeno, ever composed, sipped her tea with a serene smile.

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