Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest

Chapter 792  Chapter 183.2 - Outer currents

The Matriarch's fingers stilled, her amber eyes blazing with a fierce, unyielding resolve. The flickering light of the Emberheart flames danced across her face, illuminating the cold, calculated expression that had come to define her rule. 
"Rats, frost, or wind," she began, her voice low but carrying the weight of absolute authority, "it matters not. The Hawkins family lit this fire when they dared to target my child. They chose this war, and a war is what they will receive." 
Her gaze shifted to Esme, sharp and unrelenting. "We will not relent. The Frostborne and the Ventoriens are distractions—nothing more. The Hawkins family is our focus. They must be reminded why no one challenges the Emberhearts and escapes unscathed." 
Esme inclined her head, her own expression hardening in response to her Matriarch's command. "Understood, Matriarch. The fight will continue. What of the Frostborne? Their involvement is growing bolder with each passing day." 
The Matriarch's lips curled into a faint, predatory smile. "They wish to play their games in the shadows, as they always have. Let them. The Frostborne thrive on secrecy, and secrecy is a weakness when exposed to the light. Pressure their operatives, disrupt their alliances, and strike where they least expect. They will fall, just as they have before." 
Her gaze flickered with cold amusement as she continued, her voice soft but dripping with venom. "And the Ventoriens… they are fools to involve themselves in this conflict. Their petty grudge blinds them to the fact that they are nothing but pawns in the Hawkins' schemes. If they step too far, they will burn." 
Esme straightened, her fingers tightening around the tablet as she took in her Matriarch's words. "And the Young Lady?" she asked carefully. "Shall I ensure her protection remains a priority?" 
The Matriarch's expression darkened, her tone sharpening. "Irina is my daughter. She does not need to be coddled. But make no mistake—any who threaten her will face my full wrath." 
Esme hesitated for the briefest moment before nodding. "It will be done, Matriarch." 
The Matriarch's eyes returned to the flickering flames, her thoughts clearly fixed on the road ahead. "This war wi