Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

Chapter 238: The New Arc

"Do you know her?" I heard Aria's voice from the side. Guess she noticed my gaze.

"You could say that," I replied to her. "But this is the first time I have seen her."

Well, I wasn't lying, I have read about her but I haven't seen her before.

"Hmm... Alright." Aria nodded. Guess, I was clear of suspicion. "Should we go and talk with them?"

"...No, let's continue on our way," I replied turning to the road again.

We began searching for a carriage to take us back to the academy. The road was busy with people returning home after a day's work, and it took a few minutes before we found a suitable transport. Just as we were about to secure our ride, I heard someone calling my name.

"Adrian!"

Here they are...

I turned to see Aurelius, Aurelia, and the girl riding a stagecoach-type carriage approaching us. They pulled up beside us, and Aurelius leaned out, a small grin on his face.

"Finished your mission?" he asked.

"Yeah, we were about to head back," I replied.

He leaned forward, his expression curious. "How did it go?"

"Not bad," I said.

"I guess you finished yours as well," I added looking at the two large bags filled with some type of herbs.

"Yeah, we just finished as well. Wait, why don't you return with us?" Aurelius said. He then turned to the girl beside him. "Would it be alright if they joined us for the ride back?"

The girl smiled gently and nodded. "Of course. Please, join us."

Aurelius turned back to us. "Come on, hop in. There's plenty of room."

Aria and I exchanged a glance before climbing into the carriage. The interior was spacious and well-furnished, clearly designed for comfort. As we settled in, I couldn't help but feel curious.

"Thank you for the ride," I said politely looking at the girl.

"It's my pleasure," the girl replied with a warm smile. "I'm Rhea, nice to meet you."

"Adrian," I introduced myself. "And this is Aria."

Aria gave a polite nod. "Nice to meet you too."

The carriage began to move, and the gentle rocking motion made the journey feel relaxing.

"What mission did you guys do?" Aurelius asked his expression curious.

"We hunted Rabbuks," I replied shortly. "Lots of them actually."

"Rabbuks? Right, I saw this mission too but it was already taken. Guess you were the ones who picked it." He nodded in understanding.

"What about you?" I returned the question. "Did you help with gathering herbs or was it a guarding mission?"

"Haha, you are almost on the spot." Aurelius chuckled.

"Haha, you are almost on the spot." Aurelius chuckled. "We accompanied Rhea to pick rare herbs that appear in early spring. Since they grow in specific locations and their scent attracts beasts, we had to both help and protect her."

I nodded feigning ignorance at the fact I already knew everything, then turned to Rhea. "Miss Rhea, are you an alchemist?"

Rhea smiled. "I'm not a real alchemist but an apprentice alchemist."

"I see..." I nodded.

"Who is your master?" Aria asked, her curiosity piqued.

Rhea was silent for a moment before replying. "My master is Veda Silverbloom."

Both me and Aria raised an eyebrow at the familiar name. Veda Silverbloom was once a famous alchemist known for her groundbreaking potions and extensive knowledge of magical herbs. Though she had retired from the public eye years ago, her reputation still held strong among those who studied alchemy, such as my sister.

"Veda Silverbloom," I repeated 'deep in thought'. "I've heard a lot about her. I guess you must be quite the alchemist to be her apprentice."

Rhea shook her head, her eyes downcast. "I'm not really qualified to be her student," she said with a sad expression.

Aurelius immediately leaned in to console her. "You shouldn't say things like that, Rhea. From what I saw today, you have incredible potential. Master Veda must see that in you, too."

Rhea offered a small, grateful smile, but it was clear she still held some doubt. I silently observed the interaction, amused at how Aurelius was rizzing up another girl with ease. Guess every Main Character has this type of ability.

As the conversation continued, I found myself studying Rhea's appearance. She was an elf, her delicate features highlighted by her long, silvery-blonde hair that framed her face. Her emerald green eyes shimmered with gentle kindness, and her pointed ears peeked through her hair, adding to her beauty.

She was undeniably attractive, but as I compared her to my sister, Aurelia, I couldn't help but think, 'My little sis is still more beautiful.'

I smiled inwardly at the thought. Aurelia's beauty was more striking and bold, her confidence and grace evident in every movement. There was a strength in her that set her apart.

My eyes involuntarily drifted to Aria, who was engaged in polite conversation with Rhea. Aria's beauty was different—subtle and serene, with a quiet mystery that radiated from her. Her silver hair and deep purple eyes were captivating, and her presence always brought a sense of calm and reassurance. I couldn't help but think, 'Aria is still the most beautiful.'

Maybe she read my mind, Aria turned to me and gave a small smile.

Man... She is cute...

But I have to agree...

Women are scary.

The carriage continued its journey, the gentle rocking motion lulling us into a comfortable silence. The conversations ebbed and flowed, filled with laughter and camaraderie. As we neared the city, I couldn't shake the feeling that this new arc would bring unexpected challenges and changes.

Rhea let us off near the academy, while Aurelia and Aurelius decided to accompany her till the end. Aurelia probably wanted to meet Veda, while our MC acted out of kindness.

Aria and I returned to the academy, after reporting the results of our mission and handing over the proof, we received our points and left the Mission Hall.

Since it was near dinner time, and both of us were hungry, we decided to have dinner at the cafeteria.

However, just as we entered through the door, my eyes met with the person I didn't want to meet.

The little brother of the Dream Stalker - Emeric Ironheart.

I guess enemies are really bound to meet on a narrow road.