One chance

HADES SPENT SEVERAL minutes in the tub to washing himself clean, before leaving it with an indifferent expression. He dressed himself in a simple fashion, these were his travelling clothes. About one-third of his clothes and most valued things were already packed and ready for his departure in a few hours, it was enough for a whole school year as he would be wearing the uniform most of the time anyway.

Just as Hades was dressed and ready, he heard a knock from the other side of the door. "His Excellency wishes to talk to you, young master." He heard the butler's familiar voice as he walked to the door to open it, and the butler was right in front of him.

His name is Rouge, he's older than the Grand Duke but he's younger than the Marquis Winchester. One can say that he's already fifty because of the visible grey strands of his hair and wrinkled face but he's actually forty-eight, only a year older than the Grand Duke. However, do not be fooled by his age or his gentle appearance, his strength is second only to the Grand Duke's.

Before he leaves for good, Hades glanced back inside his room. He spent eight years of his life here, more than the years he spent inside the tower or the Winchester manor. And this might be the last time he'll be here too. Hopefully, no one will use this room the moment he leaves, he dislikes anyone owning his personal territory inside the manor.

Even if he already died. But that's for the Grand Duchess to decide.

With one last look, he left the bedroom.

Upon arriving at the Grand Duke's office, the butler bows to leave the father and son alone, and the moment he was out of sight, Hades stepped closer inside. He stood in the center of the room, with an indifferent expression. He already figured that they would at least have a word or two alone before he leaves. The Grand Duke was standing by the window with his hands behind and his back facing his son.

'He feels so far away', Hades thought. But it's not that he was trying to reach out to him.

From the first time they met, Hades always knew that there was a line between him and the Grand Duke that he cannot cross, and that line has always been the reason why they can't even treat each other like proper adoptive father and son. But it's not that they both mind it, their relationship is purely contractual. How they treat and respect each other like master and disciple is enough for them.

Silence reigned for a few moments, and the Grand Duke was the first to break it.

"From tomorrow and on, you shall abandon the name Novak. You will be entering the academy as a commoner named Hades, and you will be free to run wild on your own. I trust that you are ready for whatever fate you'll end up with?" His stern voice echoed the room, and Hades smiled at his words.

This was the deal they made about six years ago. The moment he enters the academy or the moment he starts his revenge, the name Novak will be removed from his name. So, if he ever gets caught or dies in the middle of his revenge, he will not put any harm to the Novak Grand Duchy. He will simply be a commoner and a scholarship student at the academy who has a deep grudge towards certain nobles, but unfortunately gets caught and executed.

Hades initiated and insisted this deal himself. Why? Because he won't be able to run freely with a big name, such as Novak, as a shackle. Of course, they were hesitant to agree, but he had a point.

"I am, Father." Hades stated his honest answer. He is more than ready. The Grand Duke found himself subconsciously smiling at the young man's answer. He may not show it, but he is proud of how this child grew.

Even if he is simply a weapon.

"The equipment you asked for will be delivered by SAG the moment you enter the academy. The new batch of medicine is also packed separately in a small bag. I had Rogue put it inside of the carriage you will be using." The Grand Duke informs. Hades simply nodded, his small smile not fading from his face, and the Grand Duke saw that as the window was reflecting the young man's figure.

The Grand Duke was one to not show his emotions, not because he's dense, but because of how it wasn't necessary for him. He's not as calm as other think though, he's impatient and has quite a temper. He was unlike Hades, who has become someone who can hide his emotions and keep them under control.

The Grand Duke would wonder if he raised an obedient dog or a cunning snake.

"… Never forget why you're doing this, Hades. This is your only chance, and I'll be expecting good results. Don't disappoint me." As he faced the young man, he saw how Hades shamelessly breaks into a fit of laughs after hearing his words. His master sounded serious but he couldn't stay serious.

'He's acting like a strict father now?! Did Mother force him?!' Hades thought to himself as he continued to laugh to his heart's content. He never imagined the Grand Duke to act like a proper father, this took him by surprise. The air was filled with his laughter.

After a few seconds, his laughs slowly died and he looked up to his master/adoptive father. His jet eyes were glowing with confidence and his lips were curved up to a cocky smile.

"Father, you know I don't care about your expectations, but worry not!" Hades straightened his posture. His gaze felt cold, and his smile felt ominous.

"I'll make sure that they experience hell while they're still alive and breathing."