Chapter 140

Fate spotted him from across the grand ballroom-sitting on a velvet sofa, a glass of red wine in one hand, eyes calm but unreadable.

Finally.

She crossed the floor quickly, the hem of her silk gown sweeping behind her like a royal banner. Her smile widened as she reached him.

"Jaden... I finally found you.” Her voice was soft, eager, laced with something only he could understand.

Jaden gave her a slow look. "You were looking for me?" he said flatly, though there was a subtle curve at the edge of his mouth.

Before Fate could answer, a tall elderly man in a dark jade robe stepped beside her. His posture was upright, his hands folded behind him with the pride of someone who thought they ruled the room.

"This is Master Reuben,” Fate said, motioning politely. "He's my family's representative for the Bloodborne Trial."

Reuben gave Jaden a long, scrutinizing look. “So... you're the Jaden I've been hearing about."

Jaden didn't stand. Didn't bow. Didn't even blink.

He raised his brow and answered, "Apparently."

Reuben's jaw twitched. "Do you even understand where you are, boy?"

Jaden's wine glass paused mid-air. "A ship,” he replied dryly.

"This isn't just a ship," Reuben said, stepping closer as if his presence alone should inspire awe. “This is the Draconis, the largest cruise vessel in Ravenmoor. It hosts over five thousand guests, features twenty-three entertainment levels, a floating arena... and most importantly, it's the battleground for the Bloodborne Trial. A place for warriors, not... tourists."

Jaden took a slow sip. "Cool story."

Reuben's nostrils flared. "This is a rare opportunity for people like you. I suggest you use the time to explore the ship instead of clinging to Fate like a stray pup. She's preparing for real business deal."

The air chilled.

Jaden's eyes narrowed. "Are you... looking down on me?"

Before Reuben could respond, he choked.

His hands flew to his throat as his face turned pale. No one had moved. No wind, no sound-yet an invisible grip tightened around his

How a noose. His knees buckled

slightly. His breath rasped. He couldn't speak.

Jaden didn't move an inch. His fingers tapped the side of his glass.

Fate looked confused. "Reuben? What's wrong?"

Suddenly—

A cheerful voice broke the tension. "Master Reuben!"

A tall, fashionable young man with slicked-back hair and a smug expression approached. He wore a

designerat screamed wealth's and his watch sparkled even in dim lighting.

"Why'd you rush off so suddenly?" he asked with a chuckle, slapping Reuben's back.

The moment the slap landed, the invisible force vanished. Reuben stumbled forward, gasping for air like a drowning man.

Jaden swirled his wine and took another sip, unfazed.

"Jaden, this is Mr. Danny," Fate said,

ther tone had cooled slightly.

"He took

Dan's been a

in the entertainment entertainmen

"

sector. sponsor

Danny barely glanced at Jaden before scoffing. “Ah, no need to introduce me to some random nobody."

His eyes slid over Jaden with disdain. “Fate, you know me—I don't deal with stray cats and dogs."

Jaden sighed quietly, setting his glass down.

These people never learned.