I Became The Novel's Biggest Antagonist

Aurion was one of the most prosperous nations on the Holy Continent, positioned at its far western edge. Renowned for its advancements, it stood as the most developed country in the entire continent, far surpassing its neighbors in technology and lifestyle. Innovation was at its core, and progress never seemed to slow.

Many of the greatest minds in science hailed from Aurion, and it was home to [Horizon], the continent's most prestigious institute for scientific research. If there was a groundbreaking discovery to be made, chances were it came from there.

The nation itself was divided into four major regions:

The Northern Region of Rutoshia

The Southern Region of Adrencia

The Eastern Region of Rodhenia

The Western Region of Escain

Along the main road leading to Asherante, the capital of Rodhenia, a sleek carriage moved through. Unlike the traditional carriages seen in less developed nations, this one wasn't drawn by horses. Instead, it glided forward, powered by mana stones and controlled by a skilled mana user.

Unlike other countries where medieval-style guards were stationed at every entrance, Aurion didn't rely on such outdated methods. There were still guards present, but they weren't checking every passerby as if expecting trouble at any moment.

Aurion was a nation of innovation and power—only a fool would dare to cause chaos in a place like Asherante or Ocryphia. Both capitals were home to some of the highest-ranked Hunters in the continent. Any criminal foolish enough to stir up trouble would be dealt with before they could even take a second breath.

However, an event had shaken the nation just two weeks prior—one that left even the most composed individuals in shock. A battle of legendary proportions had unfolded in Ocryphia, where an actual Goddess and a Fallen Angel had appeared and clashed. It was the kind of event that people only read about in myths, yet it had happened before the eyes of thousands. Some skeptics believed it was nothing more than an elaborate illusion or staged performance, but the number of casualties left no room for doubt—it had been real.

Interestingly, while Ocryphia was still reeling from the aftermath, the other three regions weren't as convinced. To them, it seemed like a fabricated spectacle designed to attract more visitors and attention to the city.

Despite being part of the same country, the four capital cities shared a deep-rooted rivalry. Each took pride in its own strengths, and their rivalries were further fueled by the presence of Aurion's four elite academies, one in each capital.

As the carriage rolled closer to the city, its passengers caught sight of the towering buildings of Asherante.

A delicate hand pulled back the curtain covering the window, revealing a striking young woman with forest-green hair. Her gray eyes, scanned the bustling cityscape beyond.

"It's incredible, isn't it?" Diana mutterred beside her, resting her head against the window as she gazed at the gleaming skyline.

This was her second time seeing Asherante, yet the sight still left her awestruck. The city stretched toward the heavens with towering skyscrapers, their sleek glass surfaces reflecting the vibrant neon lights. Giant digital screens flashed with news updates and advertisements, giving the whole city an animated energy.

"It's certainly more advanced than Unadora," Minerva replied not sounding as impressed as her sister. "Would you want to live here someday?"

Diana shook her head almost immediately. "Unadora feels more peaceful. This place is just... too crowded." She hesitated before glancing at her sister. "What about you, sister?"

For a brief moment, Minerva's usually unreadable expression softened, a flicker of something melancholic crossing her face. But she quickly masked it with a small smile. "I don't really have a choice. My fiancé lives here, after all."

Diana frowned, arms crossed. "You haven't even met him yet."

Minerva sighed. "Circumstances got in the way."

"That's not an excuse! He could've waited for you! You came all the way from Unadora, and he didn't even have the patience to wait a few hours?" Diana huffed, barely holding back her anger.

Two weeks ago, on their way to meet Minerva's fiancé—Ryan Griffin, heir to Griffin Industries—they had been caught up in an unexpected incident. A notorious criminal, Davon Brook, had been found in the nearby forest, and Minerva had chosen to aid a group of Hunters in taking him down. By the time they had settled the matter and dealt with the aftermath, night had already fallen by the time they reached Asherante.

Ryan Griffin, who had been expecting their arrival, had waited for an hour before losing his patience and leaving.

When Minerva and Diana finally reached the estate, he was already gone. She hadn't even gotten the chance to meet him—but fortunately, his father had been present, allowing them to proceed with discussions about their arranged engagement.

In truth, the discussions between their families had already been settled. The arrangement between Minerva and Ryan had been decided by their fathers long ago. Her journey to Asherante wasn't just about meeting her fiancé—it was also a way to prove to Brian Griffin that her family was serious about the engagement. Getting familiar with the city she would eventually call home was just another part of the plan.

"It's not like we were late on purpose," Diana grumbled. "We helped take down a criminal, for crying out loud."

"Yes, but maybe we should have left that job to the Hunters," Minerva sighed. "From what I saw, Mr. King seemed strong enough to handle it on his own."

She recalled the fight vividly. King had completely overwhelmed both the monster and Davon Brook. Looking back, she wasn't even sure he had needed her help when the creature lunged at him.

Switching topics, Minerva turned to her sister with a teasing smile. "Has he called you since then?"

Diana huffed. "He sent me messages—but only to ask about you." She shot Minerva an annoyed look. "If that's all he wanted, you should have given your contact, sister."

Minerva chuckled. "Is my dear sister perhaps jealous?"

"W-Why would I be jealous of him?" Diana shot back, clearly flustered. She wasn't jealous—just irritated that King had only asked for her number to use her as a go-between for Minerva.

Who did he think she was?

She wasn't just anybody—she was the daughter of the most powerful Duke in Unadora!

Minerva simply shook her head, amused, before turning back to the window.

After another thirty minutes, the carriage finally pulled up in front of the Griffin estate. Calling it a mansion didn't feel quite right. Rather than the elegant grandeur one might expect from one of the wealthiest families in Aurion, the place looked more like a training facility than a home.

As their carriage came to a stop, the two guards trailing behind them in a separate vehicle quickly got out, moving to open their door.

Diana stepped out first, followed closely by Minerva. Their outfits were far from the traditional gowns they would have worn back in Unadora—or even the ones they had worn just two weeks ago. They had dressed for the occasion, knowing they were visitors in a different country.

Minerva wore a stylish skirt dress, while Diana had opted for something more practical—simple yet elegant pants.

The automatic gates swung open the moment they arrived, as if expecting them.

Minerva and Diana, already familiar with the estate, strode forward flanked by their guards.

As they approached the entrance, Minerva's eyes quickly spotted a young man standing at the doorway, a confident smile on his face. He was striking—around her age, with spiky dirt-blond hair swept back and piercing blue eyes.

Her heart skipped a beat despite herself.

There was no doubt about it—this was Ryan Griffin.

Stopping a few steps away, Minerva pinched the hem of her skirt and gave a flawless, formal greeting.

Diana, who wasn't wearing a skirt—and who, frankly, had no interest in impressing Ryan—settled for a curt nod. She still hadn't forgiven him for leaving instead of at least waiting for them in his own mansion.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Milord," Minerva greeted.

Ryan chuckled. "You don't have to be so formal with me, we are in Asherante, a highly developed City. But yeah, the pleasure's mine."

Diana frowned but kept her thoughts to herself.

"I heard my father speak of your beauty," Ryan continued, his gaze lingering on Minerva, "but I see now that he greatly underestimated his words. You're even more stunning than I imagined."

Minerva offered a polite smile. "I'm honored. My father also underestimated his words when describing you, Milord," she added with a soft giggle.

Ryan's grin widened. With an easy gesture, he stepped aside. "Please, come in."

Minerva nodded and followed him inside, Diana trailing behind with their guards.

He led them to a spacious living room, modern yet luxurious.

"Take a seat," Ryan said, motioning toward a plush sofa before settling into the armchair opposite them. "Would you like something to drink? Or maybe a snack?"

Minerva shook her head. "No, thank you, Milord." Diana followed suit.

Ryan let out a small laugh. "You don't need to call me that. This isn't some remote village, and I'm not a peasant. Just call me Ryan. That'll be easier for you—since we're already engaged. Not officially yet, but soon enough."

Minerva hesitated for a brief second before finally relenting. "Yes… Ryan," she said, a little awkwardly.

Pleased, Ryan reached out to the maid standing nearby, taking a cup from the tray she held. He took a sip, his gaze never leaving Minerva.

Ryan took a slow sip of his drink, his gaze lingering on Diana a little too long, making her uncomfortable.

"Is Lord Griffin here as well?" She asked, breaking the silence.

"My father? No," Ryan replied casually. "He's got a lot on his plate. Being the CEO of Griffin Industries isn't exactly a small job. You should know by now—everyone across the Holy Continent comes to us for weapons. Hell, even nations beyond it do. Our craftsmanship is unmatched, not just here but even in other continents like Zelandia. My father's been expanding business there too."

He leaned back, tilting his head slightly. "No surprise your father came running to mine when his kingdom was on the brink of collapse. Or is it still crumbling? Have your enemies already started making moves against you?"

Diana clenched her teeth, her fingers curling into fists. Just as she was about to speak, Minerva gently placed a hand on her arm, cutting in with a smile.

"Gevurah," Minerva answered smoothly. "They're a religious faction devoted to Seraphiel, a goddess."

Ryan scoffed. "They sound like a bunch of idiots." He shook his head but smirked. "But don't worry. With all the weapons my father sent and the money he lent, there's no way your kingdom will fall—no matter how weak it is."

Diana abruptly stood up. Minerva shot her a pleading look, but Diana ignored it, locking eyes with Ryan for a brief second before turning on her heel and walking away.

Ryan raised a brow but chuckled. "Huh. Feisty."

"My apologies," Minerva said quickly, forcing another smile. "My sister isn't much of a talker."

"Oh, I don't mind," Ryan said with a smirk, his gaze still fixed on Diana's retreating figure. Then, without missing a beat, he turned back to Minerva. "She's just as hot as you, isn't she? Is she engaged to someone yet?"

Minerva hesitated, watching the way his eyes gleamed with interest. She knew exactly where his thoughts were heading. Polygamy wasn't unheard of in Aurion, but the last thing she wanted was for her sister to get caught up in this.

"Our father is already considering suitors for her within our kingdom," she lied smoothly.

Ryan exhaled, a flicker of disappointment crossing his face before he shrugged and downed the rest of his drink. "Whatever," he said, setting his cup down before stepping toward her. "You're enough."

Minerva stood as well.

Before she could fully process what was happening, Ryan grabbed her hand, pulling her sharply toward him. His touch was firm and a bit hard. One of his hands slid to her cheek, his fingers warm against her skin.

"Since you're going to be mine, I could take you right here," he said, his breath brushing against her lips as he leaned in, closing the distance.

Minerva's heart pounded, but she gently pressed her hands against his chest, pushing him back. "Um… please, not now," she said softly.

Ryan frowned, his gaze darkening. "Why?"

She hesitated. The truth was, she wasn't ready. It wasn't the right time—perhaps it never had been. But she knew better than to say that outright. Instead, she offered a response she thought he would accept.

"After the war," she said carefully. "When everything is settled."

Ryan studied her for a long moment, then scoffed, stepping away. Without another word, he turned and strode off without bothering his annoyance.

"Suit yourself," he muttered. "I have things to take care of."

As the door shut behind him, Minerva let out a slow, shaky breath. She had thought she was prepared for this… but maybe she wasn't as ready as she had believed.

Still, it didn't matter. Ready or not, she would have eventually to fulfill her duty—for her kingdom's sake.