Chapter 140: Chapter No.140 Team Ashwood Assemble (1/?)
[Samael Ashwood's POV]
"Honestly, I fully expected you to reject the offer to join my team." Seraphina blinked in surprise, her expression softening with a hint of curiosity. "Reject it? Why would you think that?" she asked, her tone genuinely puzzled.
I looked up, meeting her eyes with a small, thoughtful smile. "Well, given our rocky start, I figured you might not be too keen on teaming up with someone who once saw you as a rival." I paused for a moment, gauging her reaction. "Plus, you're one of the academy's top talents. You could easily join any team you wanted."
Seraphina let out a light laugh, shaking her head. "You underestimate yourself, Samael. Sure, we had a tense beginning, but you've proven time and again that you're someone I can rely on." She took a sip of her coffee, her eyes never leaving mine. "And honestly, I'd rather be on a team where I know I'm truly valued, not just for my abilities but also as a person."
Her words caught me off guard, and I felt a strange warmth settle in my chest. It was an acknowledgment that went beyond simple respect—an understanding that we were beginning to see each other as equals.
"Besides," Seraphina continued with a teasing smile, "I have to admit, seeing you cut through Allen's tricks like that was pretty satisfying. It's good to know that if we face any trouble in the dungeon, you'll have our backs."
I couldn't help but grin at her words. "Well, I do aim to impress," I said, a touch of humor in my voice. "But honestly, it's not just about the fights. It's about making sure our team works like a well-oiled machine, that we know each other's strengths and can cover each other's weaknesses."
Seraphina nodded, her expression turning more serious. "That's exactly why I agreed to join you. I know we all have our individual strengths, but I believe that with the right strategy and teamwork, we can overcome any challenge the dungeon throws at us."
"Glad to hear it," I said, leaning back in my chair. "Speaking of strategy, I've been thinking about our roles. I want each member to focus on what they're best at, but also be ready to adapt if things go sideways. You're an expert in illusions and mind magic, which will be crucial for both offense and crowd control."
"And you'll be leading us, won't you?" Seraphina asked, her eyes studying me carefully.
"Yeah," I confirmed, nodding slowly. "But leadership isn't just about calling the shots. I'll need everyone's input, especially yours. You've got a tactical mind, and I want to make sure we're all contributing to the decisions."
Seraphina's eyes sparkled with something I couldn't quite place—pride, perhaps? Or maybe 'something' else. "Now I know how you got a whole harem king title from the students~"
I nearly choked on my coffee, my eyes widening slightly at Seraphina's teasing comment. "Harem king? Really?" I said, a mix of surprise and amusement colouring my voice. "That's what they're calling me now?"
Seraphina gave me a sly smile, clearly enjoying my reaction. "Oh, absolutely. You should hear the rumours floating around. Some say you're the mysterious prince who sweeps every girl off their feet with that charming smile and those mismatched eyes of yours," she teased, her tone light but playful.
She continued, "And those lovers of yours are in the team right, What was their name again."
"Lily, Liliana, Sionna, Raven, and Eveline. With you and me that makes the team full with seven members just the amount needed."
Seraphina's laughter danced in the air, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "So, we have the 'Harem King' and his entourage of beautiful maidens? This will be quite the team for the Dungeon Exploration Test."
I chuckled, shaking my head in mock exasperation. "If only they could hear you now. They would pick that title up and crown me officially as their official Harem King." I let out a lighthearted laugh, but deep down, the notion of being seen as some romantic figure—especially in the context of my growing relationships—felt absurd yet amusing.
Seraphina grinned, her laughter infectious. "Hey, it's not just the looks. It's the way you handle yourself. You stand up for people, and that's what draws them in. Besides, I think it's more than just a title; it reflects how well you're starting to fit in."
"Fit in, huh?" I mused, taking a sip of my coffee. "I suppose I have made a name for myself in a rather unconventional way." I glanced out the window, watching students milling about, their conversations drifting in and out like the soft breeze outside. "But fitting in doesn't mean I want to be a puppet for anyone.
This academy is filled with power struggles, and I refuse to get swept up in someone else's game."
Seraphina nodded, her expression thoughtful. "That's smart. But you have to be careful. Some people won't take kindly to you challenging their status quo." She leaned forward, her eyes serious. "You've already made a powerful enemy in Allen. He won't forget this, and neither will the people who stand by him."
"Let them come," I said, my voice steady. "I'm ready for whatever challenges lie ahead. I've got you and the others watching my back, and that makes a difference."
Seraphina's gaze softened, and I could see the appreciation shining in her eyes. "We're lucky to have you, Samael. You bring something unique to our group. You don't just bring power; you bring integrity."
I could feel my cheeks warm slightly under her praise. "Thanks, Seraphina. That means a lot coming from you. I really value our partnership."
Her smile returned, brightening her features. "Speaking of partnership, we should definitely discuss the other members of our team. Do you think they're ready for this?"
"What if I say they suggested I ask you to join the team as the remaining last slot?" I watched Seraphina's eyes widen slightly, surprise evident on her face.
"Really? They said that?" she asked, her tone a mix of disbelief and intrigue.
I nodded, leaning forward slightly. "Yeah. They see your potential, just like I do. You bring a lot to the table—especially with your magic and strategic mind. Everyone wants the strongest team possible for the Dungeon Exploration Test."
Seraphina's smile grew, a blend of pride and excitement dancing across her features. "I appreciate that they see me as valuable. But do you think I can keep up with the rest of the team? I mean, you've all accomplished so much already."
"Of course, you can," I said firmly. "You're not just some tag-along; you're an integral part of this team. Your skills will be crucial, especially in navigating the complexities of the dungeon. Honestly, they are having me as a tag-along, saying 'You're too powerful for the dungeon test, so let us girls handle the fighting and enjoy being the leader.' can you believe it?"
Seraphina laughed, the sound bright and clear. "Honestly, it sounds like your team knows how to flatter you. But I can see where they're coming from. You're incredibly powerful, and they probably want to give you the chance to strategize without getting too hands-on in the actual fights."
"True, but it still feels a bit like a cop-out," I admitted, scratching my head. "I want to contribute just as much as everyone else, not just stand back and direct from the sidelines."
She leaned back, crossing her arms and looking thoughtful. "Well, there's a balance to be struck, isn't there? Being a good leader means recognizing when to step in and when to let others shine. If you really want to make an impact in the dungeon, you need to trust your team to handle their roles."
"Yeah, I guess," I said, taking another sip of my coffee. "It's just that I've always been the type to jump into the fray. I like the adrenaline, the thrill of a good fight. But I know there's more at stake here than just proving myself."
"Exactly," Seraphina said, her eyes meeting mine with an intensity that sent a shiver down my spine. "This isn't just about the test. It's about what we can achieve together. If you keep pushing yourself, you might miss the opportunity to see what everyone else can do. This could be a chance for all of us to grow."
Her perspective made sense, and I found myself nodding along. "You're right. I need to focus on the bigger picture. And maybe… allow myself to step back sometimes."
She smiled at me, a knowing look in her eyes. "That's the spirit! And who knows? You might find that you enjoy seeing your teammates shine just as much as being in the spotlight yourself."
"Alright, I will keep that in mind. Anyway, let's go I will formally introduce you to the rest of the team." I said as I stood up, placing my coffee cup down with a soft clink. The anticipation of introducing Seraphina to the rest of the team buzzed in the air, like a charged spell waiting to be unleashed.
Seraphina rose alongside me, a glimmer of excitement dancing in her eyes. "Lead the way, Samael. I'm ready to meet my new comrades."
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[To Be Continued]
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Stone Me!, I can take it.
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