Chapter 32 – Inheritances and Promises
Cordelia caught her breath, her eyes narrowing as they studied Adrian closely. A flicker of astonishment danced across her face.
His hair shimmered with a radiant golden glow, like sunlight caught in strands of silk. And his eyes—one remained his familiar vibrant green, but the other gleamed fiercely, molten gold swirling like liquid fire.
"Adrian… you've changed since receiving the inheritance," she whispered, voice trembling with awe and a hint of disbelief.
Adrian blinked, confusion furrowing his brow. "Changed how?"
Cordelia stepped closer, eyes sharp and curious. "Haven't you noticed? Look at yourself." She handed him a sword lying nearby. The polished blade reflected his image like a flawless mirror.
Adrian took it, gaze sharpening as he examined the reflection.
"Damn..." he muttered, frustration tightening his voice. "With this… there's no way I can hide it from Director Maria when I return."
Cordelia held his gaze, a spark of pride kindling in her eyes. "So, how strong are you now? After the inheritance?"
Taking a deep breath, Adrian felt the power thrumming through every fiber of his being—a divine flame blazing steadily in his chest.
"I'm… almost at the same level as that monster. Just one step away from Hero level," he said, clenching his fist as latent strength surged in his muscles.
Cordelia smiled softly, pride tinting her expression. "Me too… after that fight, I've grown."
She hesitated, then gathered her courage. "What's your plan once we leave here?"
Adrian's gaze drifted to the horizon, the setting sun casting golden light over the shattered castle ruins.
"Since I inherited Jesus' power, a problem arose," he said, voice darkening. "Jesus died sealing the barrier, scattering parts of my inheritance far and wide. I'll need to search for the rest… to grow stronger."
Cordelia listened silently, admiration shining in her eyes. Then Adrian looked to her.
"And you? Now that your parents are safe?"
She paused, as if hearing her own thoughts for the first time. "I… haven't thought about it. But now, as an heir, going back to school and pretending to be normal is impossible. So… I'll travel too. Get stronger. Protect my parents with my own hands."
Adrian nodded and extended his hand. "Why don't you come with me? The barriers outside are dangerous. It's better to have someone you trust."
Cordelia smiled warmly and bumped her fist against his. "I'm counting on you, partner."
"Likewise," Adrian said, returning the gesture firmly.
He took a steadying breath. "Alright… now that we've made a decision, let's free your parents."
They walked through the ruined corridors toward the great hall where it had all begun. The floor was thick with ancient dust and scars of battle, yet something new caught their eyes.
Beneath the rubble, where the first door had once stood, now stood another—massive, pristine, and utterly white. It pulsed with silent power, as if waiting to be discovered.
"How did we miss this door before?" Cordelia asked, baffled, staring up at the imposing threshold.
Adrian stepped closer, tracing the door's surface. "It's cloaked in powerful illusion magic. Only the true heir can see it, once they inherit the power. That's why only an heir can free those trapped within."
He placed his hand on the door, channeling his divine energy. Golden symbols blossomed across its surface like radiant roots, and the door creaked open to reveal a chamber suffused with serene, magical light.
Inside, translucent crystals floated and pulsed softly. Several figures lay in deep slumber, encased in a shimmering barrier like liquid glass.
"Cordelia… which ones are your parents?" Adrian asked gently.
She spotted them immediately—a couple lying side by side, hands intertwined, peaceful even in sleep. Tears welled in her eyes. "There… that's them."
Adrian nodded solemnly.
Raising his hand, he summoned the Authority of the Domain—a sacred power inherited from this place. A wave of brilliant light washed over the chamber, enveloping all except Cordelia's parents, and gently teleporting the others outside.
Cordelia's eyes widened. "What… did you do?"
"I moved them outside. I don't want anyone knowing I've inherited a god's power yet—it's dangerous. I'm not strong enough to face that risk," Adrian said, undoing the magical barrier that sealed her parents.
Without hesitation, Cordelia knelt beside them. Her voice broke with emotion as she shook them gently.
"Dad! Mom! Please, wake up!"
Slowly, their eyes opened. The father's gaze landed on Cordelia, confusion mingling with recognition.
"Cordelia… is that you?"
She embraced them, tears streaming freely. "You're okay. You're really okay."
They returned the hug, still uncertain but comforted by their daughter's love and relief.
Adrian stood silently nearby, watching the reunion with steady, unwavering eyes. Inside, something deep stirred—a renewed sense of purpose, a mission made clear.
"To protect those we love…" he whispered, voice resolute. "I'll keep growing stronger."
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