Chapter 140: Learning Moments
Inside the castle, the atmosphere was heavy with an eerie stillness, broken only by the footsteps of Ashaiki, Amanda, and Kieran as they navigated the dark corridors. At a snap of Ashaiki's fingers, flames burst to life along the walls, casting flickering shadows that danced across the ancient stone.
Kieran, her curiosity piqued by their surroundings, broke the silence. "So, why are we in this creepy old castle, and how is there one this far out in the middle of nowhere in Brazil?" she inquired, her eyes scanning the dimly lit passageways.
Ashaiki, taken aback by Kieran's knowledge, turned to her with a look of surprise. "You know what Brazil is?" she asked, a hint of skepticism in her tone.
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Kieran, slightly annoyed by the question, responded firmly, "Of course, I do. I wouldn't just come back here and not know more about this planet."
Her response hinted at a deeper understanding and a level of preparation that went beyond what Ashaiki had expected.
Ashaiki, visibly surprised by Kieran's response, remarked, "From my experience, you angels often see it as beneath you to learn about things that don't directly affect you. How old are you, by the way?"
Kieran thought for a moment before responding. "Uhhh, if I had to estimate, maybe 200 or 300 years old. It's not something we really keep track of or celebrate," she said. "I know humans like to celebrate their birthdays annually. I've learned about that from the books I've studied," she added, her voice reflecting a genuine interest in understanding human customs.
As they continued walking, Ashiki led them through another door, which opened into a massive room. The room was architecturally impressive, with pillars symmetrically lining both sides. At the far end, there was a giant, rustic chair covered in moss, symbolizing a bygone era of grandeur. Behind the chair, a stark contrast to the ancient decor, was a massive technological setup.
A large box with numerous wires connected to computer screens—resembling a small bar—displayed a reading of 67%.
"So, you're still a youngling in Angelic terms, aren't you?" Ashaiki mused, her expression one of newfound understanding. "That might explain your composure and your way of thinking."
This observation by Ashaiki underscored the unique position Kieran held. Her youth, by Angelic standards, had given her a different perspective and approach, especially towards human affairs.
Kieran's confusion was evident as she struggled to grasp the connection between her age and her actions. "I don't understand what you mean. How does my age relate to any of this?" she asked, genuinely perplexed.
Ashaiki, with a knowing look, placed a hand over her face, suggesting a deeper understanding of Angelic nature. "Don't worry about it," she began, her voice carrying a hint of patience mixed with insight. "But even you must admit, during your fight with that creature, there was a moment when something inside you changed.
You experienced a unique thrill, a rush that coursed through your veins, making you feel superior. Tell me the truth," Ashaiki insisted, her gaze fixed intently on Kieran.
Kieran, visibly unsettled by the accuracy of Ashaiki's observation, glanced down, her hand instinctively covering her arm as she reflected on the battle. The memory of that exhilarating rush flashed in her mind. "Y-yes, I guess I did feel something like that," she admitted reluctantly. "But how did you know? You were knocked away by the creature.
Do you have some ability to observe a fight from a distance?"
Her question, laced with curiosity and a hint of wariness, revealed her surprise at Ashaiki's perceptiveness.
Ashaiki's response was blunt, her voice tinged with a mix of harshness and experience. "No, I don't have any special ability to observe from afar. I've just dealt with enough Angelic beings to recognize the patterns in how you all behave. At the end of the day, you're not so different from anyone else.
But, while you're under the impression that you genuinely care about us, maybe you can actually be useful in saving our planet."
Kieran, absorbing Ashaiki's words, reaffirmed her commitment. "I will do whatever I can," she stated firmly, her resolve clear.
As they approached the screen, which now displayed 63%, Kieran's curiosity was piqued. "I don't recall reading about technology of this level in the books I came across. What exactly is this?" she inquired, her gaze fixed on the screen.
Ashaiki explained, "This is one of our systems designed to detect any abnormalities in the sky. When something enters the planet's atmosphere, the system redirects its trajectory to land a mile away from this device."
Kieran listened intently, her mind processing the information. "So, this ensures that anything coming through can't get to or find the device," she summarized, understanding the strategic importance of such a system.
Kieran's amazement was evident as she surveyed the advanced technology before her, the screens displaying live feeds from various major locations around the world. "I see. And what are these computers for?" she inquired, her eyes wide with intrigue.
Ashaiki responded in a calm, matter-of-fact tone, "This is our WRS, short for World Review System. It's a backup in case our detection system ever goes offline. With this, we can monitor where creatures are appearing and prepare for the worst-case scenarios."
Kieran's expression turned thoughtful, a hint of concern crossing her features. "I see," she murmured. "To be honest, I wasn't expecting the situation on Earth to be this dire. Before coming here, I was told none of this was happening. I wonder if there's some sort of cover-up going on." Her words trailed off as she delved into her bag, retrieving a watch-like device.
Holding the watch, Kieran added, "I was instructed to report anything significant I find." She pressed a button on the watch, and suddenly, the air around her crackled with energy. In an instant, Ashaiki was beside her, leaving a slight trail of pink that cascaded in the air, her rippling pink hair creating a striking contrast.
Gripping her wrist with an intense look.