The Queen Who Fights Back (by Lily Hastings) novel Chapter 55

Chapter 55

The man muttered sharply under his breath, “Let’s move—now.”

Without hesitation, the two figures slipped into the shadows, their departure hurried and tinged with a sense of urgent escape.

Downstairs, Nova’s eyes remained fixed on the spot where they had vanished, refusing to look away until she was absolutely certain they were gone.

Jordan, noticing her intense focus, furrowed his brow in confusion. “What’s wrong? Did you catch a glimpse of something?”

With a faint, playful smile tugging at her lips, Nova replied softly, “Just some stray cats wandering by. They’ve already run off.”

Jordan accepted her explanation without question, nodding in quiet understanding.

Casually, Nova added, “I’ll handle your mission.”

The week slipped away swiftly, and Saturday was fast approaching.

Nova prepared herself to attend a prestigious high-society ball in Ravenport, marking her debut as the new owner of Frostwave Bar.

It struck her then—Ghost-Hammer would be arriving in Ravenport within days.

Even traveling from a war-torn nation to Zoria, then making his way to this small city, would take no longer than a week.

However, for a mercenary like Ghost-Hammer, enemies were never far behind. Evading pursuers, breaking free from battlefields, and covering his tracks required careful timing and patience.

Knowing Ghost-Hammer’s meticulous nature, Nova trusted he wouldn’t recklessly cause trouble that might affect her.

During a break, Sophia’s cheerful voice broke through the quiet. Her cheeks rested in her hands as she beamed, “Finally, it’s Friday, Nova! No dragging ourselves out of bed for classes tomorrow, and the elite ball is tonight. You’re going, right?”

Sophia was a blessing in Nova’s life—a kitchen wizard whose talents in the Dessert Club meant Nova was treated to a new sweet delight every day: Oreo crumble cups, caramel puddings, cream puffs, and more.

Nova’s hand, poised with a spoon over the Oreo crumble cup, paused as she narrowed her eyes slightly.

Quick to explain, Sophia said, “Oh, sorry—I just assumed you knew about the ball since I’ve always thought of you as an old friend.

The morning hours flew by in a blur of normalcy.

When afternoon arrived, it was time for club activities.

Nova headed toward the Free Combat Club, while Sophia made her way to the Dessert Club.

As Nova passed the school gymnasium, a quiet girl caught her attention. She had twin braids, thick black-rimmed glasses, and blunt bangs that framed her face.

Nova raised an eyebrow and tried to sidestep around her, but the girl called out softly from behind, “Can we talk, Nova?”

At SLRA, Nova’s reputation was well known. Everyone was aware that the duel champion was the long-lost third daughter of the Blake family.

Apart from the secretive hidden experts, she was considered the strongest student on campus.

“Not interested,” Nova said bluntly, one hand tucked into her pocket as she kept walking. She had no desire to engage with strangers—unless they had something compelling enough to make her stop.

The twin-braided girl clenched her fists, lowered her gaze, then summoned her courage. Under the watchful eyes of passing students, she spoke firmly, “I know who you really are. Nova, you’re an assassin.”