Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest

Chapter 791  Chapter 183.1 - Outer currents

The images were intimate, carefully chosen to imply far more than what had actually happened: her hugging Astron tightly at the Spatial Gate station, another of her leaning into him at the Stellamare Museum, and the two of them entering a high-class hotel together. 
Scandalous, indeed—at least for those who didn't know the context. But instead of fear or panic, a wry smirk formed on Irina's lips as she scrolled through the pictures. 
"Well," she said, her tone almost amused, "you certainly went to a lot of trouble, didn't you?" 
The voice on the other end faltered slightly, as though caught off guard by her reaction. "Trouble worth taking," it replied, regaining its composure. "These photos would certainly make waves if they were released to the public. Your family, your reputation—it would all take a significant hit, wouldn't it?" 
Irina's smirk widened as she leaned back in her chair, crossing her legs casually. The glow from her communication device cast a soft light on her face, but her fiery amber eyes gleamed with amusement. She rested her chin on her palm, the picture of feigned nonchalance. 
"Oh, absolutely," she said, her tone light but edged with mock concern. "You're right. These photos are devastating. My poor reputation. My fragile family name. I'm positively trembling in fear." 
The voice on the other end hesitated again, the distorted quality unable to hide the flicker of uncertainty. "Mock me all you want, Miss Emberheart," they finally replied, their tone regaining its venomous edge. "But we both know these images would cause a stir if they were released. The Emberheart name would never recover." 
'Emberheart name? At least they've done their homework.' Irina thought, biting back a chuckle. 'Though, this really isn't the first time someone's tried something like this. I almost want to applaud the effort.' 
She straightened slightly, her smirk fading into an expression of mild curiosity. "Alright," she said, her voice softening into something closer to sincerity. "Let's say you're right. Let's say these photos could ruin me. What exactly are you proposing?&quo