Dual Cultivator Reborn [System In The Cultivation World] Chapter 1000: Queen of shadows
Previously on Dual Cultivator Reborn [System In The Cultivation World]...
"What a disappointment—the real excitement has only just begun, yet my big sister wants to spoil it all... He turns into a completely different man when anger takes hold; I’ve always admired this side of Yohan." Athena smiled as she gazed toward River Shore City. Maria and Kana swapped looks with one another after catching Athena's words.
This woman had always remained an enigma to them. The two knew nothing about her origins. They only understood that she was Evelyn's younger sister; beyond that, they lacked any hints or details concerning her.
"You two... don't you agree with me? He looks incredible when he gets serious, doesn't he?" Athena tilted her head and glanced at Maria and Kana, who stood there watching her intently.
"The whole River Shore City hangs in the balance. What if he unleashes too much power and winds up wrecking everything he treasures or holds close? With your laid-back attitude, you don't seem to mind even if he razes it all in his way. Aren't you embarrassed? After all, you're one of his partners—you should've held him back from anything foolish!" Kana burst out, glaring at Athena with fury in her eyes. She was furious that Athena treated it so casually, even though so much was at risk: the fate of River Shore City and the clan Yohan valued, with everything on the brink.
Maria let out a deep sigh upon hearing Kana. She could see why Kana had reacted that way, but her words struck too hard against Athena.
"You're absolutely correct. Why should I worry if he scorches or demolishes everything along his path... I only care about Yohan. It's preferable this way—if he severs his other ties, then he'll belong solely to me. I'll take him to where he truly fits, giving him a fresh purpose in life, one befitting the king of all... I will serve as his shield and guard him forever!" Athena replied to Kana, her eyes taking on a strange gleam. Kana stood stunned by her words, and Maria felt the same shock. Earlier, Maria hadn't paid it much mind, aware that these two weren't on friendly terms and often clashed, but those words from Athena's lips shifted her expression entirely.
"What on earth are you saying..." Kana snapped in rage as she stared at Athena. But surprisingly, Athena just laughed and waved her hand dismissively.
"It's nothing—I'm just teasing you. I don't harbor such lofty schemes or anything like that. Besides, that guy adores his family. I'm content as long as he's content!" Athena continued, shifting her gaze back toward River Shore City.
Kana balled her fists tightly. Deep inside, she sensed Athena wasn't joking or playing around—those words held a profound, hidden weight.
'You need to halt this. Now isn't the moment or spot to clash among ourselves,' Maria's voice resounded in Kana's mind. Kana drew in a lengthy breath, glanced at Maria, and gave a nod.
'You're spot on. She always knows how to rile me up. Once this situation sorts itself out, I'll ensure we settle things between us,' Kana replied to Maria. With that, she vanished from the spot moments later. After her departure, Maria walked over to Athena and settled down beside her.
"Those words you uttered before... you truly meant them, didn't you?" Maria said, her eyes fixed on River Shore City. Athena turned her head toward Maria briefly before redirecting her view to the city.
"The renowned alchemist Maria Maybringer... the final heir of the ancient Maybringer Clan. I figured you perished ages ago, yet here you sit beside me... Fate can be so harsh. I never imagined a day would arrive when I'd be right next to you..." Athena chuckled. A startled expression crossed Maria's face, though it faded quickly.
"Well, I'm not all that shocked. You are your mother's daughter, after all... I still recall the last encounter with your mother—she was truly intimidating..." Maria paused. Athena cocked her head, peering into Maria's eyes.
"You encountered my mother, huh..." she inquired.
"Yes... ages ago. Your mother is a terrifying yet powerful figure... deserving of the title Queen of Shadows, the one who orchestrates from the darkness!" Maria answered.
"And yet you sit here beside me, still alive and breathing. I bet you struck some secret pact with her; otherwise, she wouldn't spare anyone who's glimpsed her face."
"Let's avoid digging into that. I just want to understand your plans for Yohan. Given your mother's awareness, she must know of Yohan's presence and his capabilities. I'm astonished she hasn't acted yet..." Maria stated firmly, her face etched with gravity. Seeing this, Athena sighed deeply.
"Let's steer clear of that topic... you could end up losing your life!" Athena murmured. In the next instant, she rose and leaped onto the shadow beast's head.
"Besides, chaos is brewing in this area. The fight Yohan's waging is merely the start—the true spectacle is on the verge of unfolding." Athena added. Moments later, she vanished from there with the shadow beast, stranding Maria at the ridge's edge.
"Things are about to turn chaotic, huh... So the moment has arrived at last... You'd better honor your end of the bargain, Queen of Shadows. After all, I've upheld mine... Now it's yours!" Maria gripped her fist as she stared toward River Shore City. Then, she too disappeared from that location.