Zero Shift: Second Gear: A Superhero Academy LitRPG by George Bach

Author:George Bach [Bach, George]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2025-10-10T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER TWELVE

The château’s grand ballroom had been transformed into something out of a dream. Crystal chandeliers cast warm light over marble floors, while French doors opened onto terraces where guests mingled under strings of lights that seemed to float without support. The air hummed with power – not just political, but literal. Enhanced individuals from across Europe had gathered, and their abilities created an atmosphere that was almost electric.

“This is incredible,” Amara whispered, adjusting the neckline of her midnight blue dress.

She wasn’t wrong. I’d never seen so many enhanced individuals in one place, all dressed to the nines and using their abilities casually. A woman with plant powers had grown living flower arrangements that shifted and bloomed as guests watched. Someone with light manipulation was creating subtle aurora effects in the air above the dance floor. It was beautiful and terrifying at the same time.

“There,” Rey said suddenly, her voice tight with emotion. “Uncle Alexei.”

I followed her gaze across the ballroom to where a tall, distinguished man in military dress uniform was speaking with a group of officials. Even from a distance, you could see the family resemblance – the same sharp cheekbones, the same way of holding himself like he owned whatever room he was in.

General Alexei Volkov looked exactly like what he was: a man who’d spent decades making life-and-death decisions and living with the consequences.

“He looks...” Jason started.

“Intimidating as hell,” Sophia finished.

“He’s actually a teddy bear,” Rey said, but her hands were shaking slightly as she smoothed her red dress. “I just haven’t seen him in so long.”

“Go,” Madeline said gently. “We’ll be right here.”

Rey took a deep breath and walked across the ballroom with the kind of purposeful stride that made people step out of her way. I watched as she approached her uncle, saw the moment he noticed her, saw his face transform from polite diplomatic interest to pure joy.

“Reynalda!” His voice carried across the room as he swept her into a bear hug that lifted her off her feet. “My little wolf, what are you doing here?”

“Uncle Alexei,” she said, and I could hear the tears in her voice even from twenty feet away. “I’ve missed you so much.”

“Let me look at you,” he said, holding her at arm’s length. “You’re beautiful. And strong. I can see it in your eyes – you’ve been through battles.”

“A few.”

“Good. Battle makes us who we are.” He glanced over at us, his expression curious but not unfriendly. “And these are your American friends?”

Rey waved us over, and suddenly I was shaking hands with one of the most powerful enhanced military leaders in Europe. His grip was firm, his eyes sharp, and I had the distinct impression he was cataloging everything about us in the first thirty seconds.

“Evan Grey,” I said.

“Ah, the nullifier. I’ve heard interesting things about you, young man.”

“All good, I hope.”

“Mostly,” he said with a smile that reminded me of Rey. “Though I understand you’ve been causing quite a stir in London.”

“Word travels fast.”

“In our community, everything travels fast.

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