Chapter 37: NEW LOOK

Asher sat at his desk in his dimly lit room, surrounded by a scattered collection of books, papers, and scribbled notes. The soft hum of his computer provided a subtle background noise as he pored over documents and plotted the course of his future.

His time at the academy would be lengthy, and he needed to accomplish a great deal of work if he were to take control of the Black Market. Time was running out before his departure to the academy, and the weight of his impending responsibilities pressed upon him.

But it wasn't just the weight of leadership that occupied his thoughts. Asher was eager to meet individuals of his own age, to gauge the potential of the future generation who would undoubtedly become his rivals and allies alike. The prospect of forging new connections and witnessing the diverse talents of his peers filled him with a sense of anticipation and curiosity.

His fingers traced over a ring that rested on his desk, a simple artifact that held extraordinary significance. "Not to mention the chosen one," he mumbled under his breath as he picked it up.

The ring held a unique power; as soon as Asher slipped it onto his finger, the intricate tattoo on his left hand, a mark of his runic power, vanished from sight. It was a calculated move, one he had carefully orchestrated by instructing Karina to procure the artifact. Asher had no intention of revealing the full extent of his abilities to potential rivals or enemies in the making.

As Asher contemplated the future, Dona entered his room and approached him, her expression concerned.

"Asher, are you sure about it?" she asked, her voice filled with doubt.

Asher rose from his desk, his determination clear. "Yes, I'm sure."

Dona sighed, the weight of their decisions pressing on her. She made a call, her tone grave. "Miss Rona, please enter."

In response to her call, a woman entered Asher's room. She exuded an air of confidence and professionalism.

"Asher, meet Miss Rona," Dona introduced. "She's one of the best hairdressers in the country. And Rona, this is Asher Gray, one of our most promising recruits."

Rona extended her hand towards Asher. "Who doesn't know the only Space Affinity awakener in the world?"

Asher smiled, shaking Rona's hand firmly. "Hello, Miss Rona. Nice to meet you."

Rona wasted no time, opening a box she had brought with her. "So, how can I help you?"

Asher voiced his concern, "Please make sure that it doesn't look bad on me."

Rona reassured him, her hands skilled and steady as she began to work on his hair. "You don't have to worry. I'll make sure you look your best."

When Rona finished, she presented Asher with a mirror, and a charming teenage boy stood before him. His once-long hair had been replaced by short, grayish-white hair that framed his face in a way that accentuated his chiseled jawline and strong features. The color was a curious blend of sophistication and youth, giving him an air of timeless charm.

But it was his eyes that truly captivated those who beheld him. His phoenix eyes, an enchanting shade of gray with orange irises, were a mesmerizing sight to behold. They seemed to hold the wisdom of ages yet sparkled with youthful enthusiasm.

When he locked eyes with Dona and Rona, it felt as though he could see into the very depths of their souls, leaving them both vulnerable and entranced.

His face was a harmonious blend of rugged and refined, with a perfectly sculpted nose and high cheekbones that added an extra layer of allure. There was an undeniable charisma in his smile, which revealed a set of pearly white teeth that contrasted beautifully against his lightly tanned skin.

"How charming!" Rona exclaimed.

"You are going to make a lot of women cry in the future, Asher," Dona added with a playful grin.