Emperor's Reckoning



As the tension reached its peak, and the clash between Cecile, Ning, Lyon, Yuri, Esmeralda, and Selena seemed imminent, the seer, Lily, acted like a calming force amidst the storm. With a single clap of her hands, the room fell silent, all eyes turning towards her. Her smile remained serene, and her amethyst eyes seemed to hold a glimmer of knowing wisdom as if she had anticipated this situation.

"Now, now," Lily's melodic voice rang out, "it's a banquet, a time for celebration and camaraderie. I do not wish to see bloodshed in this lovely evening." Her words carried a certain authority, and even those engaged in the standoff couldn't help but be drawn to her presence.

Her composure and gentle demeanor acted like a balm, diffusing the charged atmosphere in the room. The guests relaxed slightly, their shoulders loosening from the tension that had gripped them just moments ago. It was as if Lily's words had a magical effect, pacifying the heated emotions and restoring a sense of harmony.

They who were moments away from confrontation, now found themselves hesitating, uncertain of their next steps. Lily's presence commanded respect, and it was evident that her words carried great weight.

Ning's scowl softened, and she raised her chin defiantly as if trying to maintain her composure. "Very well, for the sake of respecting Seer Lily," she said, her tone still carrying a hint of irritation. It was evident that she wasn't fully pleased with the situation, but she decided to let the matter go, at least for the moment.

Lily, the Seer, acknowledged Ning's gesture with a gracious smile. "Thank you," she said, her voice gentle and warm. "Your willingness to let go of the tension is greatly appreciated. As a seer, I understand the intricacies of emotions and the delicate balance we must maintain in our interactions."

Ning nodded curtly, still slightly reluctant to back down completely, but she knew better than to challenge the authority and wisdom of the seer. Despite her initial annoyance, she couldn't deny the aura of respect that surrounded Lily, and she found herself compelled to show deference to the revered figure.

Though Ning might have seemed a bit stubborn, she knew when to pick her battles, especially when confronted with someone as influential as the seer. And in that moment, she chose to yield, setting aside her personal grievances for the sake of maintaining harmony during the celebratory event.

Lily's amethyst eyes gently shifted to Cecile's side, expecting Lyon's wife to meet her gaze. However, Cecile's response was unexpected. Instead of showing deference or curiosity, Cecile maintained an air of confidence and even a hint of arrogance. She seemed uninterested in seeking the seer's guidance as if she believed that she could carve her own path without any assistance.

This display of arrogance surprised some of the onlookers, as they had expected Cecile to be more open-minded towards the seer's presence. Lily, however, remained unperturbed by Cecile's demeanor. As a seer who had encountered various personalities over the years, she was accustomed to dealing with all sorts of individuals, each with their unique perspectives and approaches to life.

Without a trace of judgment, Lily continued to wear her serene smile, unfazed by Cecile's arrogance. She understood that not everyone would be willing to seek guidance, especially someone as headstrong and self-assured as Cecile. The seer respected each person's free will to make their own choices, and she knew that guidance could only be effective if it was willingly sought.

Lily turned her amethyst gaze towards Lyon, her serene smile still intact. "Master Lyon, are you available for a reading? If so, we can begin whenever you're ready."

Lyon was surprised for a moment, and he found himself intrigued by the prospect of having his future read by the renowned seer. However, his mischievous side couldn't resist adding a touch of playfulness to the moment.

"Of course, Seer Lily," Lyon replied, feigning a thoughtful expression. "But let me warn you, my future might be too unpredictable for even your gifted sight to comprehend."

Lily's smile remained unchanged, and she responded with a hint of amusement in her voice, "The future can indeed be unpredictable, but that is what makes life all the more exciting. I shall do my best to unravel the threads of destiny that lay before you, Master Lyon... and I also have been informed that you will have two readings, and King Nyi will have the other two, is that correct?"

The murmurs and gasps spread through the crowd as they learned that Lyon had not only received one reading but two, and the same was true for King Nyi. The unexpected turn of events brought a sense of astonishment and curiosity among the young cultivators and the distinguished guests alike.

"Two readings? Is that even possible?" Esmeralda raised her brows.

"Don't tell me your students offered their spoils to you? asked Yuri.

"That's correct, young master Yuri," said Rayus as the other two stood by his sides.

"Are you guys serious?" asked Esmeralda, "Do you know how great of an opportunity this is?"

"We know, however, what they gave us worth much more than what we could become," said Rayus.

Seer Lily nodded, "You three have chosen your paths, and I can see it in your eyes the unshakable determination."

"Eh.." Esmeralda still couldn't wrap her mind around the decision that the three students had made.

As the banquet hall buzzed with excitement and curiosity, Old Gu, the principal of Nirvana School, stepped forward, his presence commanding the attention of everyone present. The air seemed to hold its breath as he cleared his throat, preparing to make an important announcement.

"Seer Lily," Old Gu's voice resonated with authority, "I am pleased to inform you that the chamber for the seer's readings has been prepared."

"What impeccable timing," murmured Cecile.

"Thank you, principal," said Lily before she glanced over Lyon and asked, "Who will be the first one?"

"I will," said Lyon before he turned and made his way toward the crowd then he came back with a beautiful woman who exuded maturity and glamor. She was Kyoko, the azure fox.

"Hm?" Lily raised her brows before she approached Kyoko. Her glance was drawn to Kyoko's red eye. "What fascinating eye you have there, lady."

"Thank you for your praise," said Kyoko as she nodded in a calm demeanor.

Lily nodded before looking at Lyon, "Do you want to give her a chance?"

Lyon nodded, "She needs it."

"Very well," Lily smiled before calling Kyoko, "Please follow me."

Lyon's sharp eyes caught a glimpse of Kyoko being led by Seer Lily toward the designated chamber. Kyoko's countenance was a mix of curiosity and excitement, her steps measured but eager as she followed the ethereal figure of the seer. The allure of uncovering the secrets that lay ahead, the possibilities and the hidden paths that her future might hold, drew Kyoko forward with an irresistible allure.

With each step, the anticipation seemed to grow within Kyoko, and it mirrored the sentiment within Lyon. He knew that this moment was significant for her, a turning point in her life where the veils of uncertainty would be lifted, revealing glimpses of what might lie beyond the horizon. A mix of emotions washed over him — pride for how far she had come, anxiety for what revelations she might encounter, and the desire to see her flourish on her path.

As they reached the entrance of the chamber, Seer Lily turned to Kyoko with a gentle smile, her amethyst eyes exuding an aura of wisdom and understanding. "Fear not," she reassured Kyoko. "In this sacred space, we shall glimpse the threads that weave your destiny. Embrace whatever visions unfold, for they are but a guiding light on your journey."

As Kyoko nodded, a glimmer of uncertainty flickered in her eyes. Instead of speaking about her future, she found herself drawn to ask a different question. "Seer Lily," she began tentatively, "can you tell me... where is my home?"

"Your home?" asked Lily.

Kyoko smiled, "I have a special... situation."

"Home... doesn't necessarily be a place, home is not always a place, but a feeling. It is where your heart finds solace and belonging, where you feel a sense of comfort and love," said Lily whilst extending her hand. "But if that is what you need to seek, then that is what I'm going to see, but I cannot guarantee a clear view."

"A glimpse is enough," said Kyoko as she grabbed her hand.

"Then let's begin," Lily closed her eyes and the green gem shimmered.

As Lyon scanned the banquet hall, he noticed Ryona's anxious gaze directed towards the chamber where Kyoko was getting her reading. Concern etched on her face, Ryona seemed torn between curiosity and worry.

Approaching Ryona with a gentle smile, Lyon placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry too much."

Ryona looked up at Lyon, grateful for his reassurance but still unable to shake off her concern, "Thank you, hubby." She embraced him whilst keeping her gaze toward the chamber.