A New Begins

Marduk, now fully inhabiting the body of Nolan Anderson, took a moment to absorb the chaotic joy swirling around him. His family had transformed into a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, relief, and disbelief—and he found himself at the center of it all. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, he felt the warmth of human connection. It was foreign yet comforting, like stepping into a sunlit meadow after years of confinement in a dark chamber.

As the doctor conducted his examination, Marduk focused on the sounds and sights surrounding him. The room, adorned with elegant tapestries and framed portraits of stern-looking ancestors, spoke of wealth and lineage. He could see the remnants of a noble lifestyle—the polished wood of the furniture, the plush carpets underfoot, and the glimmer of crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.

"His vitals are strong," the doctor announced, his voice slicing through the joyous noise. "Young Master Nolan has a remarkable recovery ahead. He needs rest, but it appears he has regained consciousness at last."

At the mention of "rest," Marduk felt a pang of frustration. He was no longer the fragile boy they thought he was; he was Marduk, the archmage who had once commanded the elements themselves. But the reality of this new body reminded him that he would need to bide his time.

"Thank you, Doctor," Duke Alpheus said, his voice heavy with gratitude. "Nolan, my boy, I can't believe you're back with us! We were so worried…" His voice trailed off, the words laced with the unspoken fears of loss and grief.

"I'm sorry to have caused you worry, Father," Marduk replied, channeling his best impression of Nolan's voice, smooth yet youthful. It felt strange to speak those words, but he managed to inject sincerity into his tone.

"Rest is important," the doctor interjected, gesturing toward the bed. "I suggest that everyone let him recuperate. We'll have time to discuss what's next."

The family members exchanged glances, a silent agreement forming between them. Marduk felt a sense of anticipation, and he was grateful for the doctor's suggestion. There was much to absorb, and he needed time to think through his next steps.

The Duke nodded, his expression softening. "We'll let you rest, but we'll be nearby. We've missed you terribly, Nolan." With that, the family began to filter out of the room, but not before Elspeth turned back, her eyes sparkling with unshed tears.

"I'll be right outside if you need anything," she said, her voice a gentle whisper.

Once alone, Marduk let out a breath he didn't realize he had been holding. The room, now quiet, allowed him to gather his thoughts. He sat on the edge of the bed, observing the sun's rays filtering through the curtains, casting warm patterns on the floor. A world full of possibilities lay before him, yet uncertainty loomed like shadows in the corners of his mind.

…

Adapting to a New Existence

In the hours that followed, Marduk allowed himself to reflect on his past and the life he had left behind. As an archmage, he had wielded immense power, influencing the fabric of reality itself. Now, he was trapped in a body that had been frail, a body that had been forced into submission by a soul too weak to thrive. He would need to rebuild this vessel, to harness the magic within it.

The remnants of Nolan's memories began to resurface, each one sharper and clearer than before. He recalled the isolation that plagued Nolan's life—the whispered worries of his family hiding their tears from him, he might be the youngest among family but he was also the most sensitive and could perceive their emotions very well, the incessant medical treatments, the golden cage of nobility that had ultimately led to his decline. Marduk felt a flicker of empathy for the boy who had lived in this body before him, but his resolve hardened. He would not be shackled by fear or obligation, also looking the happy faces of his family just now, he knew that they will be one solid support. Although not completely adapted to his new family he is after all a 1000 years old hag in this young body, he can tell when someone is genuine.

Marduk stood and paced the room, trying to assess the extent of his abilities in this new form. He reached out to the magic that pulsed around him, feeling the flow of energy that suffused the very air. This world was alive with power, different from the sterile confines of the Galactic Academy. Here, magic was intertwined with technology, creating a symbiotic relationship that piqued his curiosity.

He closed his eyes, focusing on the energy around him. With a flick of his wrist, he summoned a small spark of light—a mere flicker compared to the torrents of magic he was accustomed to, but it felt exhilarating nonetheless. He could feel the potential of this new existence crackling beneath his fingertips, begging to be unleashed.

"Okay, Nolan," he muttered to himself, a smirk forming on his lips. "Let's see what you can really do."

…

The Nobility's Reality

Later that evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and purple, Marduk was joined by his family once more. 

This time his mother Eve and eldest brother Juno were also present. His mother is a master mage in one of the best universities in the empire and she was working when his news got to her, she came back immediately but his father stopped her outside his room, because he thought Nolan is resting.

She broke down in tears right there in front of his room so he opened the door and although not used to still hugged her and called out "Mum, I am fine now."

His older brother was also returned back right in tow to their mother, when he saw his mother and brother hugging while their mother was crying, his strict facade didn't last long and ran to hug them and started crying the loudest of them all.

His older sisters and father stood to the side with their hands on their forehead.

They filled the room, their presence a comforting reminder of what he had gained—a new life, a chance to forge connections.

"Are you feeling better, dear brother?" Eloise asked, her voice soft yet laced with concern.

"I am," Marduk replied, sincerity in his tone. "Stronger than I've felt in a long time." He glanced at his sisters, their eyes sparkling with hope and warmth. They were youthful and exuberant, a stark contrast to the often jaded personalities he had encountered among the nobility in his previous life.

Back to present, they are now at the dining table, he's given some porridge to eat since he just woke up after a long coma and needs to eat porridge for some time until his bady can resume regular functions.

His mother would still have unshed tears in her eyes, whenever she looked at him and a magic device attached to his neck, it keeps his vitals in check.

When the dinner got served, the family gathered around him, sharing stories about their day-to-day lives, the banter filled with affection and humor. Marduk listened intently, taking in the unique dynamics of the Anderson family. They were deeply rooted in their traditions, yet they radiated a genuine love that seemed to transcend societal expectations.

Marduk or Nolan asked his family about world affairs and some common sense knowledge, he was born a sick child and was never exposed to anything outdoors, at most a walk in the huge garden in the back of their Mansion.

As they talked, Marduk learned more about their world. The monarchy held significant power, yet the royal council ensured that the nobility served the people. He knew that his father is a duke and worked quite hard to keep the duchy prosperous, since the last two generations of dukes before his father were a menace and philandered around, so the royal council deployed his father to be the next duke.

Magic and technology coexisted in a delicate balance; schools taught both disciplines, and the realm boasted Mage Towers and Tech Towers that governed advancements.

"I have to admit, I had never thought much about the world outside my room," Marduk admitted out loud, his curiosity piqued. "But now, it feels as though I've awakened in a new era of possibilities."

Elspeth chuckled, her eyes twinkling. "You'll find that our world is filled with wonders, Nolan. There's so much to see and do beyond these walls."

As the evening wore on, Marduk felt himself relaxing into the warmth of his family's company. For the first time in ages, he felt like he belonged—like he could be more than just a figurehead in a council meeting. The thought of friendships, of exploring this new life, excited him.

…

The Banquet

A few days passed, each one a blend of recovery and exploration. Marduk took the time to acclimate to his new body, testing its limits while finding joy in small moments—a shared meal with his family, the sounds of laughter echoing through the halls, the touch of sunlight on his skin as he ventured outside. The world outside the confines of his bedroom was alive with possibilities, and he was determined to seize every one of them.

One morning, as Marduk sat at the breakfast table, the conversation turned to the upcoming Royal Festival—a grand event that showcased both magical and technological advancements in their society. The festival was renowned for attracting nobles and dignitaries from across the land, and the anticipation hung thick in the air.

"Nolan, you must attend," Duke Alpheus insisted, his voice resolute. "It's time for you to reintroduce yourself to society."

"Yes darling, it would also do you good to go out and make new friends, don't you think."

Marduk felt a surge of apprehension. The idea of facing the scrutiny of the noble court was daunting, but the thought of stepping into the world as Nolan Anderson—fresh from a miraculous recovery—filled him with an undeniable thrill.

"I'd love to," he said, carefully crafting his words. "But I haven't exactly been presentable."

Eloise leaned forward, her expression earnest. "You look better than ever, Nolan! You have to embrace this opportunity. It's a chance to show everyone how strong you've become."

Elspeth chimed in, her voice bubbling with excitement. "And who knows? You might even find someone special at the festival." Her expression that of love lorn maiden, making everyone chuckle.

Marduk raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the prospect. Romantic relationships had always been a foreign concept to him, a realm he had avoided in his previous life. But the thought of exploring love—of experiencing the joys and complexities of a relationship—was undeniably appealing. He's not going to push for it specifically, but it would a nice experience if he does have a sweet encounter of serendipity.

"Alright, then," he said, feeling a smile creep onto his face. "I'll make an appearance. But I'll need assistance to prepare for the event. This body isn't quite ready to impress on its own."

Laughter erupted around the table, and Marduk felt a sense of camaraderie bloom within him. The idea of the Royal Festival, of stepping into a world filled with magic, technology, and the promise of new life, ignited a fire within him.

As the preparations began, Marduk realized he was no longer the bored archmage yearning for excitement. He was now a young nobleman ready to embrace a vibrant new life, a journey that would take him through the complexities of friendship, love, and self-discovery in a world that promised to be both magical and enlightening.

…

Embracing the Journey Ahead

With the festival looming on the horizon, Marduk found himself swept up in the exhilaration of anticipation. The weeks ahead would be filled with preparations—fitting the perfect attire, learning the intricacies of social etiquette, and, most importantly, understanding the delicate web of relationships that defined noble life. His siblings took the responsibility of teaching him social norms and etiquettes since he himself, although noble was never taught much because of his frail body, Nolan loved reading story books and magic books so his knowledge was not enough to fool his family into believing that he already know these things and had to get lessons again, but these are also going to be his sweet memories worth remembering.

But above all, he felt a sense of purpose blossoming within him. This new life, this second chance, would not be squandered. Marduk was determined to forge his own path, to uncover the magic that lay dormant within him, and to explore the depths of his new existence.

As he glanced out the window at the sprawling estate, Marduk smiled, the horizon glowing with the promise of adventure. The journey ahead was bound to be extraordinary, and he couldn't wait to see where it would lead him.