Chapter 180: Eyes of a Dragon and the Human Heart (44)

༺ Eyes of a Dragon and the Human Heart (44) ༻

Even with knights accompanying her through the secret passageway known only to the imperial family, Cien couldn’t get rid of the slight unease that was pricking at the back of her mind.

Below Verlata Pavilion was a centuries-old tunnel that was still stable and secure. Numerous lights lined the path, illuminating the tunnel with a vermillion hue.

It reflected how meticulously the imperial family built and maintained this hidden passage, but Cien, one of the imperial princesses, couldn’t grasp the reason for it.

It was still fundamentally just a tunnel. If they had wanted to build a secret place, it would have been more logical to undertake full-scale construction. Yet, as evidenced by the detailed work in various areas, it wasn’t as if it was built carelessly.

There was no leeway for her to let her mind wander as there were still hundreds of demonic beasts ravaging through the academy above them, but she still found herself habitually engulfed in her worries.

Something was amiss.

It was odd that no one had noticed the presence of countless beasts stationed around the academy and that the beasts that ambushed the procession were unlike any other typical demonic beasts.

Initially disguised as stray cats, they either self-destructed, causing explosions, or directly attacked after enlarging their bodies.

Even she, who was privy to all sorts of information, had never heard of such demonic beasts.

But more than anything, these beasts didn’t exhibit any emotions. It wasn’t that they were devoid of all emotions—they simply didn’t display any sort of hostility or murderous intent. Even masters of emotional control normally revealed some form of aggression just before taking action.

However, the beasts attacking the academy deviated from this norm. Not only did they not reveal any before engaging in combat, but they didn’t display even a ripple in their emotions in battle. Their emotions remained calm even when they were ferociously baring their fangs or swinging their claws, as if they were relaxedly sunbathing while on a stroll.

This deeply unsettled the princess.

Since the earliest time of mankind, sight was akin to power. Human history started with observation. What could be seen could be controlled, and what could be controlled could be dominated.

It was why Cien simultaneously loathed and cherished her eyes. Its ability allowed her to manipulate others’ emotions.

Yet, at this moment, she faced the limits of her abilities.

The sudden ambush, coupled with her mental turmoil, left the usually proud and resolute princess mired in anxiety.