F/VoH Ch 78: Aira

The hologram figure appeared graceful in a shimmering dark blue gown, with the same dark blue hair cascading down her back. Her eyes, as sharp as the deep ocean, glowed with intelligence. On her right hand, there was a heart-shaped tattoo with wings on either side, adding a unique touch to her appearance.

Ryan remained calm, showing no signs of surprise despite Aira's appearance being quite impressive to anyone. Perhaps Ryan was too accustomed to extraordinary things, or maybe he simply wasn't easily surprised.

In contrast, Charlotte, who was behind Ryan, looked astonished. Charlotte's eyes widened, unable to hide her shock when the holographic image of the beautiful woman appeared out of thin air.

"Aira, how much energy does the ship have left right now?" Ryan's voice sounded flat, almost as if he were speaking to an inanimate object, even though a figure so alive stood before him.

"Captain! The fuel is currently at 30%! Are we departing now?" Aira replied, her voice full of enthusiasm, her holographic body moving smoothly as she saluted Ryan.

Ryan pondered for a moment, his expression unchanged. 30% was not an ideal amount, but it was enough to safely take them to Bertord City. Ryan quickly weighed this decision—he knew their mission was too urgent to wait for a longer refueling.

On the other hand, this ship was key to saving many lives in the future, especially in Evans' hands. A wrong decision now could alter the fate that was meant to unfold.

Charlotte remained silent, but now her gaze shifted to Ryan. The expression on Charlotte's face showed a hint of concern, perhaps realizing the high stakes that lay ahead of them.

Ryan looked at Aira with a firm expression, then gave the order in a serious tone, "No, prepare for now. Tomorrow morning I will return. For now, do not let anyone approach this place. Close all entrances, and do not allow anyone in except for me."

Aira's holographic eyes shone brightly, her previously gentle face turning more serious, as if accepting the command wholeheartedly. "Understood, Captain! Aira will execute your orders perfectly!" Aira's voice, once soft, now became stronger, showing full dedication and obedience.

Ryan nodded slightly, a sign that he was satisfied with Aira's response. "Good. I will leave now. I will be back tomorrow morning."

"Understood, Captain! Be careful on your journey, and Aira will await your return!" Aira slightly bowed, saluting enthusiastically. The expression on the hologram's face never changed, but the enthusiasm in her voice gave the impression that Aira was truly alive, ready to serve and protect her Captain, Ryan.

Ryan and Charlotte exited the ship with a more relaxed pace. They both knew that now, with Aira awakened, this place had become an impenetrable fortress. Ryan no longer needed to carry arrows—Aira had taken over all security systems at this location.

As they stepped out of the underground room, the doors behind them closed tightly with a mechanical sound echoing. The walls that had just opened now closed neatly again, as if there had never been a secret behind them.

Ryan and Charlotte stepped out of the abandoned building, leaving the dark and gloomy atmosphere behind them. Outside, the homeless people living around the building looked at them with expressions of curiosity and confusion.

Their tired and dull eyes reflected uncertainty—were these two strangers a threat, saviors, or just passersby?