Published at 20th of July 2026 6:22 am

Chapter 1858: When It All Began

This chapter is updated by JustRead.pl

A private carriage rolled through the busy streets of Trade Borough.

Inside sat two passengers.

One was Channing Oakley, the renowned history professor of the Sapphire Tower.

Seated across from him was a young lady who possessed a graceful beauty. Auburn hair cascaded past her shoulders in soft waves. Her face was delicate, and her light blue eyes were composed, attentive, and quietly intelligent.

"Genevieve, are you certain you wish to go on this mission?"

Channing couldn’t help but feel worried about her. She was, after all, one of the most talented students at the Sapphire Tower, and someone he cared for.

He and her grandfather had once been close friends, so Channing had practically watched her grow up. To him, she was almost like a granddaughter. So that’s why he couldn’t help but convince her time and time again not to participate in this dangerous mission.

But for some reason, she remained adamant.

Genevieve glanced at Channing and said with a faint smile, "It’s alright, Professor."

She turned her gaze toward the carriage window.

"Ever since I came to Davos, I’ve never once left the city. I think it’s about time I explore the wider world."

She shifted her gaze back to the old professor and smiled charmingly.

"If I never put my magic to use, then what was the point of spending all those years learning it? Besides, every great Magus needs a few adventures to tell."

Channing protested. "Then wait a little while longer! I’m sure you can find easier missions through the Guild. Why must you insist on joining this one!"

Genevieve shook her head faintly.

"I can’t shy away from danger, Professor," she said politely. "You won’t convince me not to go on this adventure. I’d rather have your blessing than keep arguing with you over this matter."

"Silly girl," Channing complained under his breath. "Fine! Fine!"

Genevieve let out a soft, cheerful giggle. "Thank you, Professor."

Although the reason she gave to Channing sounded noble, the truth was much simpler.

Her funds were running low.

Her grandfather had left her a decent sum of money in his will. However, traveling to Davos, studying at the Sapphire Tower, researching magic, and countless other expenses over the years had steadily drained her savings.

Pursuing magic was an expensive endeavor.

With no steady source of income and a constant outflow of money, she needed to take on this mission.

"They leave next week," Channing said with arms crossed. "You better be fully equipped for this mission. It’s going to be a highly dangerous one. Still... it shouldn’t be something a Mana Core Magus cannot handle."

"Yes, Professor." Genevieve nodded politely.

"While we’re at Rhenar’s, let’s get you some potions," Channing continued. "And I have a special artifact back in my office. You should take that with you."

The auburn-haired young woman couldn’t help but warmly smile.

"If there’s anything that Grandpa left me, it’s artifacts," she said. "Still, I will accept your gesture, Professor. I’m grateful."

Channing grumbled, "If Oliver knew I allowed you to go on such a dangerous mission, he’d be rolling in his grave!"

Genevieve covered her mouth and giggled.

Meanwhile, Channing couldn’t help but shake his head helplessly.

No matter how much he objected, he always ended up giving in to her. It had been that way ever since she was a child. Whether it was a new book or some dangerous idea she had set her mind on, Channing invariably found himself relenting in the end.

He doted on her like a grandfather would his own granddaughter. And Genevieve knew it.

Channing’s reluctance stemmed not from doubting Genevieve’s abilities, but from caring too much for her.

Yet he also knew he couldn’t protect her forever.

She was no longer a child. She was one of Sapphire Tower’s most talented young Magi, and if he truly believed in her abilities, then he had to accept that she was capable of facing danger.

He remembered his own youth. Once upon a time, he too had ignored the warnings of his elders and ventured into the unknown in search of adventure.

Who was he to deny her the same opportunity?

Thus, despite his worries, he ultimately chose to support her rather than stand in her way.

Besides, there was one more very important reason why he had allowed her to go.

For all the dangers and mysteries surrounding the mist, for all the countless people who had entered it and never returned, Channing believed he had found a way out of that place!

All that was needed was a band of capable young adventurers.

Old men like him and Esmond would only become liabilities if they entered.

Channing took a deep breath and nodded, as if finally coming to a decision. "So be it..."

"Professor, is everything okay?" Genevieve asked softly.

The old professor turned to her and said gently, "I’ve realized that I can’t protect you forever. A bird must one day leave the nest and learn to fly."

Genevieve smiled in response.

The carriage finally arrived at a renowned potions store in Trade Borough.

Rhenar’s Apothecary.

The two alighted from the carriage and made their way inside.

Channing wore arcane robes and a cloak draped over them, proudly displaying the insignia of the Sapphire Tower. He had a scholarly air around him.

Genevieve wore a flowing gown and a capelet. Leather boots covered her feet, while gloves reached up to her elbow. Her attire was modest yet impeccable, drawing the gaze of more than a few passersby.

Upon entering the store, they were immediately greeted by a warm, pleasant medicinal aroma.

The interior was crowded as ever. Customers browsed shelves lined with herbs and potions, while staff hurried between counters carrying crates and orders.

Yet something immediately caught their attention.

In one corner of the store, a customer and a staff member appeared to be engaged in a heated disagreement. Judging by the raised voices and animated gestures, the argument seemed to be over haggling.

Genevieve suddenly heard a soft gasp of exclamation from Channing.

"That must be him," said the old scholar.

Curious, Genevieve turned her gaze toward the corner of the store.

And that was when it all began.

She saw a raven-haired youth with a streak of bone-white hair. An odd thing. She found herself staring at him longer than was polite.

He didn’t look like much. Plain clothes, easy posture. And yet there was something about the way he carried himself. Unhurried, almost careless.

That was the first time Genevieve saw him.

She couldn’t say what it was exactly.

Only that her eyes kept returning to him...

Share