"So, this Blessing of Mana—how exactly does it work?" Percy asked casually, slipping into his gray Adidas running shoes. His outfit was effortlessly put together—black shorts, a beige graphic tee emblazoned with a bold white NY across the chest, and a black baseball cap shielding his eyes from the morning glare. Though his demeanor was relaxed, his movements were precise, each action executed with a quiet efficiency as he prepared for his outing with Angelica.
As he adjusted the cap, Percy continued his conversation with Beta regarding the latest updates to his stats.
"The Blessing of Mana is an anomaly that hasn't surfaced in recorded history for centuries," Beta explained, its voice tinged with something resembling pride. "Any official documentation of its existence has likely been lost, altered, or outright erased. But fortunately for you, Master, the Infinite Omega System is far more reliable than ancient records."
Percy let out a dry chuckle. "I suppose I should count myself lucky, huh?" he mused, stepping out of his room.
Angelica, waiting by the door, flashed him her usual warm smile. "Ready?" she asked, her silver-crimson eyes gleaming with excitement.
"Yeah, let's go," Percy replied, leading the way out.
Despite the anticipation of exploring the city, his mind drifted back to their encounter with Amanda three days prior. While he had regained much of his confidence since then, self-doubt occasionally gnawed at him. However, Angelica's unwavering presence helped to silence those nagging thoughts.
As they approached the university gates, a sleek black SUV pulled up, its glossy exterior reflecting the bright midday sun. The driver, a man in his early forties with sharp eyes and a composed demeanor, stood outside holding a sign that read Magus.
Percy smirked upon recognizing him. "Michael. It's been a while."
The older man chuckled, inclining his head in a subtle bow. "Indeed, young master. I apologize for my absence during your recovery. Your uncle was particularly insistent on my presence for one of his… business trips." The way Michael said the word business carried a note of thinly veiled contempt.
Percy exchanged a knowing look with him. No further words were necessary—both shared an unspoken resentment toward the same man. "Don't worry about it," Percy said, waving off the apology. "I know better than anyone how persistent that bastard can be when it comes to meddling in my life."
Michael's lips twitched into a smirk. "Working for an understanding master like yourself is a rare fortune," he quipped before opening the car door.
Percy and Angelica stepped inside, the car's plush leather interior absorbing them into its comfort. As they pulled away from the university, Angelica, despite her excitement, was already engrossed in a new book she had picked up the day before, flipping through its pages with quiet enthusiasm.
Taking advantage of the relative silence, Percy resumed his conversation with Beta.
"Alright, Beta—where were we?" he asked, settling back against the seat.
"Continuing from where we left off, Master," Beta responded promptly. "As I mentioned, the Blessing of Mana is an incredibly rare phenomenon. To summarize, it allows the user to harness an unprecedented amount of mana within their body."
Percy's eyes narrowed slightly in thought. "So, is it essentially a reservoir of energy? What makes it different from a standard mana pool?"
"It's far more than just an expanded mana reserve," Beta clarified. "The Blessing of Mana fundamentally alters the way your body interacts with mana itself. Your affinity, absorption rate, and even your body's ability to recover lost mana are significantly enhanced. In simple terms, Master, your very existence has become attuned to the essence of mana itself."
Percy absorbed this information, intrigued. "That sounds... a bit overpowered," he admitted, rubbing his chin.
"Only if you learn to wield it properly," Beta countered smoothly.
He smirked at that. "Alright then," he said, his anticipation growing. "Let's explore just what this ability can do."
With that, Beta pulled up a more detailed description on his screen, ready to delve into the intricacies of the Blessing of Mana.
{Infinite Omega System...
~Name: Percy Atlas Magus,
~Bloodline: Human
~Potential: Level 4 [Body Grade: A+, ??, ??]
~Abilities: Eternal Lucky Charm, Life/Death Benefits, Absolute Immunity, Mergence, Blessing of Mana [For further information click on ability]
~Element: Space
~Stamina: 39
~Strength: 40
~Intelligence: 19
~Mana: 20 (10 + 10)}
{Blessing of Mana...
Inferior Mana Utilization (Lvl 1) – A passive ability that grants the user remarkable control over mana. You can shape it, mold it in any form you wish, and also harness it within your body.
Inferior Mana Recovery (Lvl 1) – A passive ability, that enables you to absorb mana continuously through your body, facilitating an effortless flow of mana into your circulation.
Inferior Mana Sensitivity (Lvl 1) – A passive ability that heightens your senses to detect the movement of mana within a certain distance.}
Percy scrutinized the information displayed on the screen, his sharp mind dissecting every detail of the Blessing of Mana. The sheer magnitude of its implications was staggering.
"How interesting," he murmured, his voice laced with quiet intrigue. His fingers hovered over the screen, as if by touch alone he could unravel the mysteries embedded in the data. "A rare ability indeed."
Beta's voice chimed in, but this time, there was a distinct edge to it—a rare note of caution.
"The Blessing of Mana is not just rare, Master. It is coveted. It is envied. And most importantly, it is dangerous."
Percy's brows furrowed as Beta continued, "You must understand, abilities like this are not meant to be flaunted. There are those who would stop at nothing to claim it—be it through manipulation, force, or worse. Such a gift should be concealed and guarded at all costs."
A quiet tension settled in the air. Percy knew Beta was right. He had been betrayed before, his family torn apart by those who sought power over them. A rare ability like this? It would paint a target on his back so large it would be impossible to ignore.
His gaze darkened as he muttered, "Yes, Beta, I'm aware. I won't be careless."
There was no need for theatrics, no declarations of defiance—just a simple acknowledgment, spoken with the weight of cold resolve. He had learned the hard way that power was both a gift and a liability, and he wouldn't let himself be blindsided again.
Shaking off the momentary gravity of the situation, he flicked his fingers, pulling up the next screen.
"Now," he said, his tone shifting back to focused pragmatism, "let's shift our focus to my new innate element."
His blue-gold eyes flickered with an unreadable emotion as Beta seamlessly pulled up the data. If the Blessing of Mana was a key to boundless energy, then his innate element would be the weapon he wielded. And Percy Magus did not believe in wielding a dull blade.
{Element: Space—
{One of the rarer disciplines of the elemental world. It's known to be quite challenging to master, but, once trained to a certain proficiency, it grants the user the ability to manipulate the spatial laws that govern the natural world; the ability to bend and shape the fabric of space itself.}
Percy absorbed Beta's explanation with a thoughtful nod, his sharp mind already analyzing the true weight of his newfound element.
"Master, despite what the description states, the space element can be quite taxing on the mind," Beta cautioned. "Manipulating, altering, or disrupting the natural laws of the universe comes with significant recoil, which can heavily impact a human body."
Percy smirked slightly, unshaken. "I figured as much," he admitted. "Nothing this powerful comes without consequences. But don't worry, Beta—I'm not foolish enough to think I'll master this overnight. I know you'll keep me in check and stop me from making reckless mistakes."
His confidence was unwavering, but it wasn't arrogance—it was an understanding of his limits.
Beta's response was immediate, carrying a note of unwavering loyalty. "Always."
Before Percy could respond, a notification flashed across the status screen, drawing his attention.
{New update available for download—Please select Y/N to proceed.}
Percy arched an eyebrow. "An update?" He turned toward Beta, curiosity sparking in his voice.
"What's this about?"
Beta hummed thoughtfully, but there was a rare hint of uncertainty in her tone. "I'm not entirely sure of the specifics until after the installation. But from what I do know, updates from the Omega System typically introduce new features that enhance your abilities and potential."
Percy considered this, rubbing his chin. "Took long enough for one to show up," he muttered before narrowing his eyes slightly. "But hold on—if you're part of the Omega System, shouldn't you already know what this update entails?"
Beta's response came without hesitation. "I am part of the system, Percy, but my access is limited. The Infinite Omega System is currently at Level 0. As you grow stronger, the system will evolve alongside you, unlocking more than just magical abilities."
Percy's mind churned at the implications. This wasn't just a static tool—it was something that could adapt and grow alongside him. His smirk returned, this time tinged with excitement.
"Alright, let's see what's new." With an air of anticipation, he pressed 'Y', initiating the update.
The screen flickered, its bright interface fading into darkness before a new message appeared:
{System Update in Progress—Estimated Time Remaining: 5 hours.}
Percy exhaled, leaning back against his seat. "Well, I guess that gives me some time to focus on today's plans." His gaze shifted toward Angelica, who was sitting beside him—completely absorbed in her book.
His smirk deepened.
"Angel," he called, but there was no response.
Not that he expected one. Angelica had a habit—an old one—of completely shutting out the world when she was deep into a book. It had been the same ever since they were kids. Once she got lost in a story, nothing short of a cataclysmic event could break her focus.
Well… almost nothing.
A devilish idea took root in Percy's mind, his smirk turning borderline sinister. He shifted closer, careful not to alert her, and placed his right hand on the book, lowering it just enough to obstruct her view.
Angelica blinked in confusion, finally noticing him.
Before she could protest, his fingertips tilted her chin upwards, forcing her to meet his gaze.
Her breath hitched.
Percy's left hand cradled the back of her head, his touch gentle yet firm, preventing her from looking away. His other hand stroked her hair, slow and deliberate, sending a shiver through her as an unexpected warmth bloomed in her chest.
Angelica's lips parted slightly, her silver-crimson eyes locking onto Percy's blue-gold irises, now gleaming with something unreadable—something intense.
"P-Percy…" she stammered, her voice trembling with something between surprise and… excitement. "W-what are you d-doing?"
Her pulse quickened.
For once in her life, Angelica Prudence Warren was completely disarmed.
Percy didn't verbally respond. Instead, he continued to lock eyes with Angelica, captivated by the hypnotic depth of her silver-crimson gaze. He leaned in closer, drawing her in, watching as her breath hitched in anticipation. Angelica's eyes fluttered shut, her heart racing, certain of what was coming next.
But just as she braced herself for a kiss, she felt the warm tickle of his breath against her ear.
"I asked... what are you reading?" Percy whispered, his voice deep and teasing. Then, just as quickly, he pulled back, his trademark smirk firmly in place.
Angelica's eyes snapped open, her breath catching as reality sank in. He tricked me!
The scent of pine and rosemary lingered on him—remnants of his morning run. Despite having showered, the fresh, earthy fragrance clung to him, a subtle yet intoxicating reminder of his presence. Flustered, Angelica felt a wave of heat rise to her cheeks. Her fingers tightened slightly over the book in her lap as she forced herself to look away, mortified by how easily he had unsettled her.
"All you had to do was ask," she muttered, feigning composure. "You didn't have to go that far."
Percy, thoroughly pleased with himself, studied her with an amused glint in his eyes. He noted the way she struggled to even glance in his direction, her usually sharp demeanor completely thrown off balance.
Suppressing a chuckle, he accepted the book she shoved into his hands. His gaze flickered to the title, and he read aloud, "Properties of Mana." A brow arched as he turned to her. "Why this one?"
Angelica hesitated, toying with the edge of her sleeve. When she finally spoke, her voice was softer than usual, laced with something almost imperceptible. "I just... wanted to deepen my understanding of mana," she admitted. "Since I haven't awakened my innate element yet."
Percy caught the underlying emotion in her words—subtle, but unmistakable.
She was happy for him, proud of his progress. But beneath that, there was something else. A quiet disappointment.
For as long as he could remember, Angelica had always stood by his side, lifting him up when he faltered. But in his excitement over his own discovery, he had failed to notice her silent yearning—her own struggle to awaken the part of herself that remained undiscovered.
A pang of guilt settled in his chest.
Without a word, he reached over, his fingers finding hers in a reassuring touch. The warmth startled her, drawing her gaze to his, and in that instant, Percy leaned in, closing the distance between them.
Their lips met in a kiss—gentle yet firm, unspoken emotions woven into the contact. Angelica gasped softly against him, caught completely off guard, but she didn't pull away. Instead, she melted into the warmth, her grip tightening ever so slightly around his fingers.
By the time they parted, her breaths were uneven, her mind a blur.
"Angel," Percy murmured, resting his forehead against hers, "I'm sorry." His voice was low, filled with quiet sincerity. "Just as you've been there for me, I want to be there for you."
Angelica's eyes burned, emotion swelling in her chest. Overwhelmed, she wrapped her arms around him, resting her head against his shoulder as a few stray tears slipped down her cheeks.
"Idiot," she whispered. "I'm fine. You don't have to worry about me."
Percy smiled faintly. "And yet, I do. Want to know why?"
She swallowed, nodding.
"Because your pain affects me more than my own." His voice was steady, certain. "I'd rather bear your burdens myself than see you struggle alone."
Angelica had no words. She simply held him tighter, willing herself to believe in his warmth, in the quiet promise between them.
A comfortable silence stretched between them before she finally pulled away, hastily wiping her tears. But her smile had returned—bright and genuine.
"Thank you, Percy," she said softly. "I'll remember that... for next time."
Percy caught the undertone in her words, and something in his chest tightened. He didn't want her to have a next time—not a time when she felt she had to endure something on her own.
Trying to lighten the mood, he leaned back, smirking. "Don't stress too much about your innate element," he assured her. "You're smarter than you realize. I'm sure it'll find you soon."
Angelica let out a soft laugh. "You sound so sure. But how do you know I even have an innate element?"
Percy hummed, tapping a thoughtful finger against his chin. "Well, I found some old notes, and according to them, a mage's innate element is an extension of their personality, right?"
Angelica nodded. "Yes, that's true."
"Well," Percy mused, flashing a playful grin, "considering your timid nature, I think your element is just hiding—kind of like its owner."
Angelica blinked before bursting into laughter, the tension from before dissipating into the air like morning mist.
From the driver's seat, Michael glanced at the pair through the rearview mirror. A small smile tugged at his lips as he watched them—smiling, laughing, leaning into each other with an ease that spoke of deep trust.
Young love, he thought fondly.
Moments later, the SUV slowed to a stop, and Michael cleared his throat. "We've arrived."
Percy and Angelica turned toward the window, their attention shifting to the bustling cityscape before them.
Their day had just begun.
After parking in a nearby garage, Percy and Angelica found themselves standing before an elegant storefront with gilded lettering that shimmered under the morning light.
"Mystical B-Nobles Bookstore," Percy read aloud, his expression flickering with something unreadable. A twinge of nostalgia twisted in his chest—he recognized the name from his previous world. It was an internationally renowned bookstore chain, a place where knowledge from every corner of magic and beyond could be found. Even in this world, some things remain the same, he mused, suppressing the bitter amusement curling at the edge of his thoughts.
As they stepped inside, Michael offered a curt nod. "I'll be waiting by the car, young master," he assured. Percy returned the nod, appreciating the discretion.
The moment they entered, the sight before them was nothing short of fantastical. Towering bookshelves levitated effortlessly above the polished wooden floors, shifting seamlessly as tomes of all sizes glided through the air with an eerie, graceful precision. The soft hum of energy lingered in the air, and the pages of ancient manuscripts rustled as if whispering secrets to those worthy of uncovering them.
Angelica's eyes widened in pure, unfiltered wonder. "This place is incredible," she whispered, reaching out instinctively as a book drifted past her fingertips.
Percy, however, was more attuned to the unseen. Every movement of the airborne books caused a shift in the surrounding mana, subtle yet distinct. He could feel the pulse of the store's magic adjusting to their presence, analyzing them—welcoming them, perhaps.
Just then, Angelica gasped, spotting a section labeled Spatial Spells across the bookstore. Turning to Percy, her excitement was nearly infectious. "Come on, let's go!" she urged, grabbing his hand and tugging him forward with surprising strength.
Percy let out a small chuckle, allowing himself to be dragged along, though his amusement was short-lived.
In their eager rush, Angelica collided headfirst into someone—a tall, broad-shouldered figure. Stumbling slightly, she immediately stepped back, her expression apologetic. "Oh! I'm so sorry! I wasn't looking where I was going!"
The young man turned, scowling down at her with evident irritation.
"Ugh. Why are Manaless Misfits always in such a hurry when they come in here?" he sneered, his tone dripping with disdain.
Angelica visibly flinched, shrinking slightly under the venom in his words. Percy's expression darkened instantly, his jaw tightening. Without hesitation, he stepped forward, subtly positioning himself in front of Angelica, his presence shielding her from the guy's hostility.
The moment Percy got a good look at the stranger, recognition hit him like a cold wave.
"Short-styled red hair. Hazel eyes practically radiating superiority. Tall, broad, and an unmistakable air of self-importance... It's him."
His suspicions were confirmed when the guy's eyes narrowed in recognition.
"Blue-golden eyes, black hair, tanned skin..." the man muttered before his lips twisted into a smirk. "Well, well, well... if it isn't Percy Atlas Magus."
Percy let out a sigh, feigning exasperation. "Carlos Astaroth. What a displeasure to see you here."
Carlos' expression immediately soured.
Percy then turned his attention to the figures standing just behind Carlos, their collective presence exuding the same condescending air. His gaze swept over them, a quiet distaste settling in his chest.
"Ruby Faroth, Douglas Cage, Jada Solace, and... Cade Rolex."
A slow smirk curled on Percy's lips, though his eyes gleamed with something sharper, something lethal. "Had I known I'd run into such distinguished company, I would've stopped by a local church first—maybe picked up some holy water. Would've done wonders cleansing myself of the putrid aura clinging to this little gathering."
Carlos' scowl deepened, but it was Cade Rolex who stepped forward next, exuding his usual smug arrogance.
"Percy Magus," Cade drawled, his tone oozing condescension. "I heard from my father that you were expelled from Solarskis University. Is that true?"
Percy studied him, his sharp eyes taking in the minor yet distinct differences.
"Cade Rolex. Same cocky posture, same insufferable tone... but those purple eyes? Didn't he have brown ones before?"
His gaze flicked over the others, noting their subtle variations.
"Ruby Faroth—peach skin, blonde hair, green eyes. Wasn't her hair light brown with gray eyes before? Douglas Cage—light brown skin, purple hair, blue eyes. That's different. And Jada Solace... brown skin, black hair, red eyes. Mostly unchanged."
Still, the attitude was the same, regardless of the world.
Meeting Cade's gaze, Percy tilted his head in mock contemplation. "Expelled, you say? Hm." He clicked his tongue. "I suppose I was. But that's hardly any of your concern, is it?"
Cade's smirk widened. "Oh, but I think it is. You see, when someone like you falls, the rest of us can't help but watch. It's... entertaining."
Percy's smile never faltered.
"Is that so?" he mused, amusement dripping from every syllable. "Then allow me to correct your narrative. I wasn't expelled because I failed." He stepped closer, his voice lowering just enough to make the air between them feel suffocating. "I was hospitalized due to an accident—one that prevented me from taking the midterms."
Cade's smirk wavered slightly, but Percy didn't let up.
"But you already knew that, didn't you?" he continued, his tone almost sweet. "Because someone like you would never come unprepared. You did your research. You knew exactly what happened. And yet, here you are, regurgitating half-truths, hoping they'll sting."
The amusement in Percy's gaze sharpened.
"How utterly desperate of you, Cade."
Cade clenched his jaw, the taunt hitting its mark.
Percy smiled, tilting his head slightly. Your move.
Carlos, ever the self-important brute, scoffed. "You talkbig for someone who's already fallen from grace. Let's see if you can back it up."
The tension in the air thickened, palpable and electric.
Angelica, standing just behind Percy, watched the exchange with a mixture of unease and silent admiration. This was the Percy she had always known—sharp,unshakable, and utterly merciless when it came to those who dared look down on him.
And from the fire burning in his eyes, she could tell...
He wasn't done yet.
Ruby scoffed, her voice laced with mockery. "About time the university realized there was no point in keeping someone of your status around."
Jada tilted her head, her red eyes glinting with faux curiosity. "What kind of accident leaves the genius academic prince too weak to attend midterms?"
Percy paused, his expression unchanging. Then, with an air of absolute nonchalance, he replied, "I was struck by lightning."
Silence.
And then—uproarious laughter.
Carlos let out a sharp, barking laugh, flashing his sharpened teeth in a wide, near-predatory grin. "Hahaha—Oh, that's hilarious!"
Douglas doubled over, wiping tears from his eyes. "I can't believe something like that is even possible!"
Jada, clutching her stomach as she wheezed, added between chuckles, "Talk about bad luck. Did you offend god or something?"
Ruby, her smirk oozing superiority, sneered down at him. "Serves you right for trying to be part of a world you don't belong in."
Even Cade, though he wasn't laughing as openly as the others, let out a low chuckle of amusement.
Percy, watching their shared amusement with a detached indifference, mused silently, (Why do fools always flock together? They're cut from the same cheap cloth.)
Once upon a time, their words might have stung. Once upon a time, he might have cared.
But not anymore.
Carlos, shaking his head as if he couldn't believe how low Percy had fallen, stepped closer, invading his space. "Oh gods, you are so pathetic it's laughable," he sneered, his voice dripping with condescension.
Percy tilted his head, his smirk subtle yet razor-sharp. "If I'm pathetic, then what does that make you?" He paused, watching as Carlos's smug expression twitched. "Oh, I know—a dung beetle."
The laughter ceased instantly.
The air turned heavy.
Carlos's face darkened dangerously. "What did you just say?" His voice was low, sharp with barely contained rage.
Percy's smile widened, his golden-blue eyes gleaming with a cold amusement. "I said you're like a dung beetle," he repeated, his tone casual yet cutting. "Given your limitedbrainpower, it's only natural that everything you say sounds like… well, you know."
"Shit"
Carlos's jaw clenched. His fists tightened.
Angelica, sensing the shift in atmosphere, tensed beside Percy. Without a word, Percy subtly pushed her back—out of the inevitable line of fire.
Carlos took the bait.
Snarling, he grabbed the front of Percy's shirt, yanking him forward until their faces were inches apart. "Listen, commoner," he spat, his hazel eyes burning with hostility. "You're not even worth the same air as us. And don't think I've forgotten what you did to us."
Percy raised a brow. "Oh?"
Carlos's grip tightened. "You should be grateful these guys calmed me down before. Otherwise, I would've finished what the lightning couldn't."
Percy let out a low chuckle, tilting his head as if truly contemplating Carlos's words. "Aww, really?" he cooed, his tone dripping with mock sympathy. "Then you should have made your move when you had the chance."
He leaned in just slightly, his smile turning razor-sharp.
"Or were you, Carlos Astaroth, heir to the Astaroth Electronics Industry, too scared of auniversity teacher?"
The moment the words left Percy's mouth, Carlos's entire body went rigid.
Bingo.
Ruby and Jada stiffened, exchanging wary glances. They knew Carlos's temper better than anyone.
Douglas and Cade subtly shifted forward—not to defend Percy, but to stop Carlos from going too far.
Percy, undeterred, delivered the final blow.
"No, no…" He feigned realization, his voice turning almost sympathetic. "Someone as great as you couldn't possibly be that much of a—" His lips curled.
"Coward."
Carlos snapped.
"You're dead, Magus!" he roared, pulling back his fist.
The girls turned away, unable to watch.
The boys braced for impact.
And then—
POW!!
The expected impact never came.
Instead, Carlos froze, his punch suspended in mid-air—mere inches from Percy's face.
The bookstore fell into stunned silence.
Carlos's eyes widened in disbelief as he struggled, veins bulging as he tried to pull his arm back. But hecouldn't.
His fist remained trapped.
Immobilized.
As if held by an unseen force.
Slowly, his gaze flickered downward, tracing the invisible resistance keeping him frozen. His breath hitched as realizationdawned.
And then, he saw it—
Percy.
Smirking.
Effortlessly holding back his fist with a single hand.
The sight alone sent a chill down Carlos's spine.
Percy's grip was loose. Relaxed. As if this—stopping Carlos's full-force punch—was nothing more than an afterthought.
Carlos tried to wrench his hand free.
Nothing.
He pulled harder, muscles straining.
Stillnothing.
Panic flickered in his hazel eyes.
Percy sighed, shaking his head. "Tsk, tsk, Carlos," he murmured. "Losing control already? It's almost embarrassing."
Carlos gritted his teeth. "Let go."
"Hmmm…No," Percy said pleasantly.
And then, with a sudden squeeze—
Carlos winced.
The room fell deathly silent.
Percy's grip tightened, just enough to make a point.
A pulse of something dangerous flickered in his golden-blue gaze.
"This is perfect," he murmured, his tone eerily pleased."I've been wanting to assess how much my strength has improved…"
Carlos swallowed thickly.
Percy's smirk widened.
"And you," he mused, his voice a chilling purr,
"Are the perfect test subject."
Carlos's mind spiraled into confusion, fear twisting deep in his gut. How is he this strong? he thought frantically. But as the realization set in, a much more terrifying question loomed over him.
No—the real question is…
"When did he get this strong?"
Carlos, like everyone else present, had always known Percy to be evasive. Back then, he was quick-witted but never confrontational—he was calculated, always one step ahead, always one step ahead, avoiding fights rather than engaging in them.
But now?
Now, Percy wasn't dodging.
Now, Percy was standing his ground.
And worst of all—he was winning.
The weight of that fact settled into the group like a curse, their faces frozen in shock.
Carlos's fist should have connected. Percy should have been flattened. That was the natural order of things—the way it always had been.
Yet here he was.
Unshaken.
Unscathed.
And smirking.
Carlos felt his pride crumble.
His heartbeat roared in his ears as Percy tightened his grip on his wrist, and before Carlos could process it, he found himself being dragged down—forced to Percy's level.
"Now it's my turn, right?" Percy's voice was taunting, rich with amusement as he cocked his fist back, prepared to deliver a bone-shattering punch.
A twisted sense of satisfaction surged through him. (Damn,) he thought, reveling in the absolute control he held in this moment. (I knew my strength stat was high, but I didn't expect his punch to feel so… light.)
Carlos's eyes widened, pure panic setting in.
Percy was about to break him.
But just as he was about to let his fist fly—
A sudden force stopped him.
Percy's movement halted mid-strike, as if something unseen had wrapped around his wrist. A gust of wind coiled around his arm, forming an invisible barrier between him and his target.
His smirk vanished.
His sharp instincts kicked in.
This wasn't Carlos's doing.
His keen gaze darted toward the group—but no, their mana signatures hadn't shifted. (None of them had cast this spell.)
Then who—
(There.)
To his left, he spotted the source.
A small girl with violet hair, glasses perched on her nose, and a complexion like rose petals.
Her hand was raised, a translucent gray magic circle flickering to life before her.
Her Aquamarine gaze locked onto his, unwavering.
Fierce. Unyielding. Unimpressed.
"No fighting," she declared, her voice sharp and cutting through the tension like a blade. "Store policy."
Percy felt the mana pushing against his wrist—deliberate, controlled, but strong.
Interesting, he mused, mildly annoyed yet intrigued by the sudden intervention.
Still, he wasn't about to be that guy—causing a scene in a bookstore wasn't exactly his style.
With a low scoff, he released Carlos's wrist and shoved him backward without much care. Carlos stumbled—his pride taking more damage than his body—crashing into Douglas and Cade, who barely managed to keep themselves from toppling over.
The entire group looked humiliated.
Satisfied, Percy turned his full attention to the girl. (She's got skill,) he admitted.
Realizing the fight was officially over, Percy offered a small head bow of acknowledgment. "I apologize for the disturbance. I'll respect the store's rules."
The girl remained unimpressed.
She scoffed.
Turned her back to him.
"I don't like repeating myself," she stated flatly, before walking away, her presence as abrupt as her intervention.
Percy watched her go, amusement flickering in his golden-blue eyes. (Heh. Noted.)
Then, with a slow, measured turn, he directed his gaze back to Carlos.
The red-haired brute was still seething, his fists clenched, seething in his own embarrassment.
Percy stepped forward, voice dropping to a dangerous cool.
"Be grateful," he murmured, his words like a cold blade slipping between ribs.
Carlos flinched.
Percy's smirk returned, sharp as ever.
"Otherwise," he continued, tone effortlessly casual, "this would have ended horribly… for you, at least."
Carlos's entire body tensed.
And with that final, humiliating death blow, Percy turned on his heel, took Angelica's hand, and led her away.
Not once looking back.
Not once acknowledging Carlos's rage.
Not once giving them another second of his time.
Because they weren't worth it.
As they vanished deeper into the store, Carlos stood there, his pride in ruins.
The others remained silent.
None of them could deny what they had just witnessed.
PercyAtlas Magus, the boy they used to mock—
Had changed.
Carlos trembled with barely contained fury, his pridescreaming for vengeance.
This isn't over.
He clenched his fists, nails biting into his palms.
"You're dead."
His whisper was venomous, barely audible over the hum of the bookstore.
"Just wait."
And with that bitter promise hanging in the air, Carlos turned sharply, shoving past his stunned group as they stormed out of the store, leaving behind nothing but the echo of their failure.