VIP System

Chapter 42 - A Dance of Crimson Butterflies

Roxanne continued to walk towards Leo, each step filled with purpose. Sensing no malice from her, Leo turned his head slightly and asked, "What do you need?"

She stopped an arm's length away from him, her presence radiating something profound and ancient. Feeling a powerful connection, Leo threw the monster away again with a mighty push, sending it crashing into the trees. As the dust settled, a magic circle began to materialize beneath them, its intricate symbols glowing with a soft, ethereal light.

As Leo slowly turned to face her, Roxanne began to descend, her movements graceful and deliberate. Her voice, filled with a blend of hope and determination, resonated through the clearing. She chanted as she knelt, each word echoing with power.

"By the ancient bond of Arcanites, I, Roxanne, call upon the power of our ancestors," she began, lowering herself to one knee as the light of the magic circle intensified.

Leo, sensing the gravity of the situation, quickly asked Ai, What's happening right now?

"In this moment of need, I seek to form a sacred pact with you, Leo. Let our energies intertwine and our strengths merge as one," Roxanne continued, bringing her other knee to the ground, her eyes never leaving his.

Telepathically, Ai replied, her voice calm and informative.

Roxanne is an Arcanite, a legendary being capable of forming powerful bonds with adventurers. She is requesting a pact with you.

Usually, it's the adventurer who does the asking and kneeling, but this time, Roxanne has taken the initiative.

"Through this union, may we become an unstoppable force against the darkness that threatens us. I offer my essence, my power, and my unwavering loyalty," Roxanne declared, raising her hand towards him, the magic circle's glow reflecting in her eyes.

"Will you accept this bond, and together, shall we forge a path of victory and honor?" she asked, her hand steady despite the trembling in her voice.

Understanding dawned on Leo as he turned his gaze back to Roxanne. Her hand was still extended, her eyes filled with hope and determination. The magic circle beneath them pulsed with life, awaiting his decision.

Back in his life on Earth, whenever Leo found himself clouded by irrational thinking or simply unsure of what to do, he often thought of his idols, both real and imaginary. This time, he thought about how Keanu Reeves might respond to this kind of situation.

Keanu was well known for his kind heart and being a true gentleman. The stories of his generosity and humility were legendary—he would give up his seat for someone in need, engage in heartfelt conversations with fans, and even take pay cuts to ensure his colleagues were well-compensated.

Having a legendary companion like Roxanne was not even a question for Leo; it was a once-in-a-lifetime chance. Although, he chuckled to himself, this was technically his second life. But what really bothered him was how to respond to a situation where a woman was kneeling before a man. Never in his life did he think this would happen to him.

So, if Keanu were standing there, what would he do? Leo imagined him standing where he was, responding with the utmost grace and respect. In his mind's eye, he saw Keanu gently taking Roxanne's hand, helping her up, and then kneeling himself to show humility and honor.

With Keanu's image guiding him, Leo reached out and grasped Roxanne's extended hand. Her skin was warm and soft, and he could feel the pulse of magic between them. Slowly, he pulled her up until she was fully upright, her eyes widening in surprise and gratitude.

Then, with a deep breath, Leo descended to one knee, the light of the magic circle casting a soft glow around them both. As he knelt, he brought her hand to his lips and kissed it gently, his eyes meeting hers with a look of solemn respect and commitment.