Chapter 5: Secrets of the Ghost Master
By morning, the frost fever had completely broken.
Audrey sat up on the sofa in Wyatt’s clocktower study. While Wyatt was reviewing ancient academy ledgers at his desk, Audrey explored the room. On the mahogany wall hung a large, oil-painted portrait framed in tarnished gold.
It depicted a young human lord holding a glowing silver sword beside the academy gates—a man who looked identical to Wyatt.
“That was painted a hundred years ago,” Wyatt’s voice sounded from behind her. He walked over, standing beside her as they both looked at the painting. “Before the Headmaster’s curse turned St. Jude into this horrific survival game. I sacrificed my human body to seal the dark core, becoming a bound spectral guardian.”
Audrey turned to look at him, her heart aching with sympathy.
*DING-DONG!*
> **[MANDATORY QUEST 5: Wrap your arms around Professor Wyatt’s waist and swear a vow of freedom.]**
> **[Reward: Key to the Headmaster’s Vault.]**
> **[Countdown: 01:30!]**
Without a single moment of hesitation, Audrey stepped forward and wrapped her arms tightly around Wyatt’s waist, burying her face into his chest.
Wyatt stiffened in surprise, his arms hovering in the air before slowly lowering to wrap around her shoulders, holding her tight.
“Wyatt,” Audrey spoke clearly, her voice echoing with absolute conviction. “I don’t care about just surviving this game anymore. I swear I’m going to destroy the curse of St. Jude and set you free.”
> **[QUEST 5 COMPLETE!]**
> **[Intimacy Affinity +25! (Total Affinity: 90%)]**
> **[Key to Headmaster’s Vault Granted!]**
Wyatt closed his eyes, resting his chin gently on top of her head. A genuine, radiant smile touched his lips.
“Then we will break this curse together, my sweet student,” he murmured.
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