Edward paused, waiting for the System to provide him with further insights into the risks and limitations of using The Silent Serpent's Kiss. The room remained silent for a moment before the System's ethereal voice returned,[Ding! While The Silent Serpent's Kiss does not have any immediate side effects or negative consequences, it operates on a unique system of usage. Every item acquired from the store, including The Silent Serpent's Kiss, can be used once without any cost. However, for subsequent uses, there will be a charge of 500 Domination Points. The cost will then double for each subsequent usage, up to a maximum of ten times. After reaching its limit, The Silent Serpent's Kiss will vanish, returning to the realm of non-existence.]Edward absorbed the information, his mind now grappling with the intricacies of the artifact's usage. All of a sudden, his footsteps came to an abrupt halt as his mind consumed by a realization that struck him like a lightning bolt. He let out a low
In a flash as swift as lightning, the Silent Serpent's Kiss shot out from Edward's grasp, propelled by an unseen force. Its minuscule size, akin to that of a needle, allowed it to pass through the narrowest gap in the window before vanishing into the vastness of space. The artifact's journey had begun, hurtling through the atmosphere with unimaginable speed.Meanwhile, in the vast and desolate Grinn Desert, hidden beneath its unforgiving sands, lay a sprawling underground weapons warehouse. The facility stretched out like a labyrinth of death, its cold, metallic corridors illuminated by flickering fluorescent lights. The air was heavy with the scent of oil, gunpowder, and the unmistakable stench of blood.The arsenal housed within the warehouse was a testament to Stevan Petrovich's sinister trade. Rows upon rows of lethal instruments of destruction adorned the shelves, each meticulously organized and labeled. There were racks of assault rifles, their sleek barrels glinting under the h
Edward hesitated, feeling the weight of Xavier's penetrating gaze and the significance of his own revelation. He fully grasped the consequences his words carried, yet he believed in the necessity of trust and transparency within their family, even when faced with darkness.After a brief moment, Edward finally spoke. "Stevan Petrovich is dead."Xavier's reaction was immediate and profound. He leaned forward, his hands gripping the armrests of his chair with a sudden intensity. Sensing the weight of Edward's words, he adjusted his hearing aid, ensuring he didn't miss a single detail."Dead, you say?" Xavier repeated, his voice laced with a hint of skepticism. "How? What happened?"Edward took a deep breath, bracing himself for Xavier's response. "I... I was responsible for his death, Grandpa."Silence descended upon the room as Xavier absorbed Edward's confession. His face remained impassive, yet his eyes betrayed a flicker of hidden knowledge."Tell me everything," Xavier demanded, his
A hush descended upon the room, enveloping it in an unsettling silence as the weight of Xavier's words settled in the air. The notion of a patriarch willingly stepping down while still in the prime of his life was a concept that had never been entertained, especially within their lineage. They had always operated under the assumption that Xavier would lead them until his last breath, an unwavering belief ingrained in their very existence.Eloise, the eldest and most outspoken of the siblings, was the first to find her voice. "Father, this is unprecedented. Is it wise to make such a significant change while you are still capable of leading?"Xavier's gaze remained steady, his expression unwavering. "I understand your concern, Eloise. However, I have given careful consideration to this decision. Edward has proven himself capable and deserving of this responsibility. He possesses a profound understanding of our family's values, the intricacies of power, and the significance of safeguardi
Edward's playful demeanor instantly dissolved, replaced by a look of concern and understanding. He knew that Brenda deserved the truth, but explaining the complexities of Luke's situation would be challenging. He took a deep breath, preparing himself to address her concerns. "There are circumstances and matters that I can't fully explain at the moment. But I promise you, he's not in any danger. I need your trust, okay?"Brenda studied Edward's face intently, searching for any signs of deception or hesitation. After a moment of contemplation, she softened her gaze and spoke with affection."I believe you, Ed, but I'm scared for you and for Luke. Please promise me that you'll keep me informed and that you'll prioritize everyone's safety above all else.""I promise, Brenda," Edward responded, his voice steady and resolute. "I will keep you informed every step of the way."Edward's response seemed to alleviate Brenda's immediate concerns. She let out a sigh of relief, her features relaxi
Ivy's words struck Edward like a thunderbolt, causing his heart to skip a beat. The information she had just revealed was nothing short of astonishing, comparable to the moment when the enigmatic Domination System, surpassing any existence he had ever known, had chosen him as its host.Edward's mind raced to comprehend the magnitude of what Ivy had just disclosed. The responsibility of becoming the head of the Windsor family came with immense power and authority, but also with the weight of expectations and the complexities of managing such a renowned lineage.As the weight of the revelation settled upon Edward, he looked at Ivy, his voice barely above a whisper. "Are you... serious? Becoming the head of the family? It's an honor, but...""Yes, Edward, I'm completely serious," Ivy affirmed, her voice filled with conviction. "Grandpa has made a unanimous decision, and it has been agreed upon by aunt Vic, mom, and myself. The time has come for you to step into this role."Edward felt hi
As Xavier attentively observed Edward, he couldn't help but notice the subtle transformation in his demeanor. The narrowing of Edward's eyes hinted at a shift in his character, adding to the air of mystery that always surrounded him. Edward had always possessed an enigmatic aura, particularly regarding the ancient artifact he possessed. Xavier's mind wandered, contemplating the possibility that Edward might have become entangled with the elusive organization known only as "them," a whispered presence lurking in the shadows. Although Xavier had caught glimpses of Edward's extraordinary abilities, the true extent of his involvement with "them" remained shrouded in uncertainty, an enigma that intrigued Xavier deeply.However, Xavier knew that now was not the time to delve into that mystery. The immediate concern was the upcoming visit from the Petrovich suitors. Xavier had come to a decision—he would entrust the responsibility of receiving the guests to Edward."I have faith in you," Xa
As Viktor departed to fulfill Edward's revised instructions, Edward turned his attention back to Brenda. He took Brenda's hand and led her towards the training room. As they walked, Brenda couldn't help but marvel at the grandeur surrounding her. The air was filled with anticipation and a sense of purpose, as if they were embarking on an important mission.At long last, they arrived at the Platinum Guard Training Room, an expansive space where the elite guards of the Windsor family honed their formidable skills. Having personally interacted with many of these guards during his own training sessions, Edward felt a profound connection with these individuals who had wholeheartedly pledged their loyalty to the family."Ladies and gentlemen," Edward raised his voice, commanding attention from the guards. "if I may have your focus for a moment."Edward's presence in the training room caught the guards' attention, and they quickly assembled in a neat formation, their uniforms pristine and th