How to survive in the Romance Fantasy Game Chapter 670: Frozen North 2

Riley paid no mind to Snow’s blatant teasing, instead picking up a document from the neat pile on his desk to scan its contents.

"Is the principal actually intending to lengthen the event once more?" he inquired, his voice tinged with a hint of exhaustion.

"That is the plan," Snow answered. "The Continental Grand Festival has already exceeded its usual duration, but it appears the principal wants to extract a few more gold coins while the foreign investors are still caught up in the fervor. There are even discussions regarding the future use of long-range communication orbs for live match broadcasts... though the logistics for that would be quite demanding."

Riley hummed thoughtfully. "The idea isn't necessarily a poor one."

Even from his perspective, the potential was obvious.

It wasn't every day that one could witness a clash of geniuses at this caliber.

To the people of the continent, it would be viewed as a premier sport—academies acting as national representatives, students bearing the weight of their country's pride, and natural rivalries taking root.

Such events had commanded staggering amounts of money and attention in his previous world.

This situation was no different.

If anything, the entire festival had evolved into a massive prospect for investment.

Anyone with a keen sense for profit could practically smell the gold hidden behind the scenes.

"I suppose Principal Leilah possesses more of a business mind than she is credited for," Riley remarked.

"Fufu~ I believe she is simply doing whatever is necessary to protect the academy's future," Snow replied softly. "However, considering her heavy workload and how much she has taken on, some staff members are concerned she might be preparing for retirement."

Riley looked up. "Retirement?"

Snow shook her head. "I doubt she could stop even if she wished to. That woman has no idea how to cease working."

Riley let out a chuckle. "Even if she stepped down, I don't think a suitable replacement for her exists."

"Surprisingly, there are a few individuals capable of occupying the principal’s seat," Snow noted calmly.

"Is that so..."

"Yes. And in truth, while this extension might seem pointless on the surface, it has been rather beneficial for the competing students." She hesitated briefly, then gave him a knowing look. "You were hoping for some rest as well, weren't you?"

"Well... not exactly."

"Fufu~ Are you suggesting you didn't want to enjoy some private time with us girls?"

"That isn't what I meant," Riley countered quickly. "Let's just say I preferred to have this event concluded sooner."

Snow tilted her head. "Does this relate to the request you made of me last time?"

"...Yes."

"The northern peaks of the continent are not a place where just anyone can wander," she said, her expression becoming grave. "The fact that you want me to accompany you implies something significant is occurring there, doesn't it?"

"Did the Emperor not inform you of the situation in the north?"

"He did," Snow nodded. "His Majesty spoke of a dungeon surfacing and relentless monster waves striking the nearby villages. But I suspect that isn't the sole reason you are bringing me." Her eyes narrowed slightly. "Did you experience another weaver’s dream?"

"You could put it that way."

Snow did not waver. A gentle smile touched her lips.

"In that case, I will gladly go with you."

Riley was grateful for the unwavering trust Snow placed in him.

Simultaneously, a faint sense of guilt stirred in his heart.

What he was about to ask of her would be far from easy.

Regardless of her strength, he never felt right about sending someone he loved into peril—even if they were willing.

Even if he intended to be there the moment things went south.

"But while we are on the subject," Snow said, tilting her head, "what is our specific objective in the north?"

"We are going to clear the dungeon located there," Riley replied.

She blinked. "We?"

He corrected his statement immediately. "To be more precise... you will be the one clearing it."

"...Me?"

"Yes."

Snow watched him for a beat. "Why?"

Riley gave her a direct answer. "I saw it in my dream. There is something there intended for you, Snow." His voice grew quiet. "It will be perilous. For that reason, if anything happens, do not hesitate to call for me. I will be at your side in an instant."

Snow was visibly taken aback.

An S-rank dungeon—perhaps even an SSS-rank—was not something to be taken lightly by anyone.

Furthermore, Riley usually handled such matters personally and quietly, without involving others.

This time, however, was different.

This was the first occasion Riley had openly requested her to step into a situation he would normally face alone.

Strangely, the faith he showed in her only deepened her own trust in him.

And there was something else...

She could feel it—a sensation deep within her frozen heart.

A tugging sensation.

Something from the north was calling out to her.

She couldn't explain or fully comprehend it, but the feeling was undeniable, as if her very soul were being pulled toward that realm of ice and tempests.

Her mind flashed back to the moment she defeated the demon-possessed elf.

She remembered that brief, odd sensation—as if something inside her had awakened.

The north held the answers she needed.

She didn't yet know what they were, but she was certain of one thing.

That was where her path led.

"By the way, Riley, you're free this evening, right?"

"Yes, why do you ask?"

"Then you wouldn't mind being my escort to this party, would you?"

"A party?"

Riley tilted his head as he looked at the elegant golden paper held in Snow's hand.

.....

"Wow... this place is immense."

Janica’s voice, filled with pure wonder, echoed softly through the hall.

Her eyes shone as she spun slowly, taking in her surroundings.

Lucas and Kagami were in a similar state—both stood rooted to the spot, clearly stunned.

A massive chandelier hung above them, its crystal facets catching the light and showering the hall like a rain of stars.

The floor was polished to such a high sheen that it reflected their own faces, while a grand, curving staircase made of rare marble rose elegantly before them.

In every direction, wealth and social standing were on full display.

A magnificent banquet hall stretched out in front of them.

Powerful figures from the business world stood in small groups, laughing and conversing with practiced ease.

Every round table was laden with gourmet dishes and artistic desserts, with wine and rare beverages arranged as if awaiting the arrival of royalty.

"...Uhm," Kagami muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. "Clara, are you certain it was a good idea to invite us?"

No matter how he looked at it, he felt like he didn't belong. Beside him, Lucas nodded, clearly sharing the sentiment.

Even Janica, despite her wonder, stood out among the sophisticated guests.

Standing calmly next to them, Clara tilted her head. Her neutral expression softened into a small smile hidden behind her fan.

"My, why wouldn't it be?" she answered smoothly. "You are all perfectly worthy of this invitation~ Believe me."

"But you mentioned this gathering is for some of the most influential people around," Lucas said, his voice low. "So... why are we here, exactly?"

His worry was the same as Kagami’s. While Janica was eager to explore, Lucas could feel the subtle glances already coming their way—eyes filled with curiosity and quiet judgment. They did not blend in.

Clara’s fan closed with a soft click as she gazed forward with confidence.

"Because," Clara stated simply, "this world will be buzzing with your names sooner or later. Trust me—it is better to get accustomed to it now rather than learning the hard way."

She looked at the three of them with a calm, certain gaze.

"Besides," she added lightly, "didn't you ask me just yesterday to do something fun while the academy was on break? Don't worry, the feeling of being overwhelmed is only temporary. You three possess far more reputation and prestige than you realize. Once you step forward, people will swarm you like flies, desperate for your attention."

Lucas frowned slightly. "But... we don't really want that much attention."

"Fufu~ you might say that now, dear Lucas," Clara replied, turning her eyes toward him, "but these connections are vital. Especially if you intend to become a knight. There are very powerful houses present tonight—houses you might serve one day."

She paused, then teased, "Unless you've already been scouted in secret~?"

Lucas tensed up.

"N-No, I haven't."

Though he secretly wished to serve a very specific individual, the idea of serving a household hadn't crossed his mind much lately, as he had assumed his future was already set with THAT family...

However, he also knew he had to balance his ambitions with reality, as there was always a chance that person might not accept him.

"Then everything is perfect, isn't it? And believe me, you'll enjoy this more than you think~" Clara smiled.

Her focus shifted to Kagami.

"And for you as well. If you wish to bring honor to your household and ensure your dojo at home is known beyond its borders, building connections is essential."

She gestured discreetly toward a group in the far right corner.

"Look at that man—Lueve Salien. He is famous for spreading information and stories that endure. If you make a favorable impression, he could be a massive help to you later."

Kagami followed her look, swallowing hard.

Clara unfurled her fan again, a knowing smile playing on her lips.

"Tonight isn't merely a party," she whispered. "It is your first step into a much larger world."

"Even if you say that..." Kagami scratched his head, clearly unconvinced. He doubted someone so powerful would care about a small clan dojo, even if he did speak to them.

"Don't fret," Clara said smoothly, stepping to his side. "I will accompany you and assist. My words still hold significant weight in this circle—you can take that as a guarantee."

She then looked toward Lucas and Janica.

"As for you two..." she smiled faintly, "...you will stand out regardless of what you do. So just be yourselves and greet the guests."

The two traded nervous glances.

Clara chuckled at their reaction. "Or," she suggested lightly, "you can just ignore everyone and have a good time. The dance floor is open, the music is lovely, and the food is superb. Eat, relax, and enjoy. Believe me—you won't regret it. Now, go on~"

As soon as she finished, an invisible force gently but firmly pushed Janica and Lucas forward.

"W-Wait—!" Lucas tried to stop, but his feet moved of their own accord, leading him straight into the center of the grand hall.

"Sigh... it looks like we have to—"

"My, are you not Lucas? That Lucas?"

"Oh? Is this the most promising knight prospect in decades?"

"Young man, have you considered joining a knight order lately?"

"No, no, the Adventurer’s Guild would be a much better fit for your skills. I heard you've cleared S-rank dungeons already, is that true?"

"Do you have a sponsor yet? If not, how about the Silva Company—"

Before Lucas could even grasp the situation, he was swarmed by people from every side.

He looked to the side—Janica had already vanished, completely buried by the crowd.

"J-Janica...?"

Surrounded by pressing questions and eager smiles, Lucas could only manage a stiff, nervous grin as the voices closed in.

’I should’ve just stayed and trained......’