Strange Bird

After the whole interaction with Asta and Yuno, Asher and the rest of the Crimson Lion go back to the headquarters with other recruits. Deep inside Asher's heart, he is very happy. Although Asta is so noisy, he thought that not all noisy people are hateful.

"Yo, my dear nephew, how's the test? Did you Ace it?" Leopold said with a smile on his face.

"It's okay, I guess. Don't call me Nephew," Asher said and remained walking.

"Oh, come on, Don't be so cold to your uncle." Leopold followed Asher.

"I heard you got angry. Who bullied you? I'll beat them to a pulp!"

"It's been taken care of. They're just weak."

"Wow! As expected of my nephew! You're so strong!"

Asher let out a long, calming breath, realizing that Leopold's exuberant nature was overwhelming for his quieter disposition. It felt as if he were trapped in a chaotic whirlwind, a relentless storm of noise and enthusiasm. While Leopold's boisterousness could rival even Asta's, Asher couldn't deny that there was an underlying warmth to his persistent attitude. Despite the overwhelming nature of it all, Asher harbored no deep-rooted hatred towards Leopold; rather, he simply found himself disliking noisy individuals in general. From the moment Leopold laid eyes on Asher, he had become a constant presence, shadowing him wherever he went. He even took charge of Asher's fashion choices, dragging him along to buy clothes and skillfully warding off any girls who dared to approach. Leopold's unwavering passion for looking after Asher was evident, even if it sometimes left him feeling like he was caught in a whirlwind of well-intentioned chaos.

Asher stopped and looked at Leopold, saying, "Hey, let's train together some other day. I'll join Crimson Lion."

Leopold stood there, stunned, as Asher broke the usual pattern and talked to him with an unexpected request to train together. It was a moment that took him by surprise, for he had always been the one pestering Asher, knowing deep down that despite his affinity for solitude and aversion to noise, Asher often felt a lingering sense of loneliness. Other than his mother, Asher yearned for someone who could truly understand him, and while Leopold didn't possess a complete understanding of him, he refused to give up on bridging that gap. This newfound opportunity ignited a glimmer of hope within Leopold, inspiring him to redouble his efforts to connect with Asher on a deeper level and be the companion he longed for.

Leopold laughed and said, "HAHAHAHA, So you want to learn from your uncle? Sure! I will teach you!"

...............

Exhausted from a tiring day, Asher sought solace in the comfort of his room. As he sat at his study table, engrossed in his writing, a peculiar sound caught his attention. A persistent tapping on his window. Puzzled, he turned his gaze towards the source of the disturbance, only to be met with astonishment. It was an anti-bird, a creature known for its aversion to mana, furiously pecking at his windowpane. Asher couldn't fathom why such a mana-sensitive bird would be drawn to him, especially considering the sheer density and magnitude of his own mana.

Asher opened the window and let the bird get inside his room.

"Hm? Strange, why are you not going away?" Asher said while looking at the bird curiously.

*Chirp* *Chirp*

"You can understand human language? Interesting."

*Chirp* *Chirp! *

"I see... " Asher briefly halted, allowing his thoughts to wander, and what he said afterward took the bird by surprise.

"You're a human trapped in that form, aren't you?"

The anti-bird froze when she heard what Asher said. She didn't expect that Asher would know her identity in such a short amount of time. Sure enough, coming here is not a great idea. Asher is too smart. No, the word smart is not enough to describe his intelligence.

Earlier, as if guided by an inexplicable force, she found herself drawn to Asher's presence, sensing an uncanny resemblance to someone she held dear. To her astonishment, Asher embodied the very qualities that reminded her of her cherished prince. His insatiable curiosity and sharp intellect mirrored those of her prince. Every time she saw Asher, it evoked a nostalgic wave, reminiscent of the moments she had shared with her prince. It was as if fate had woven their paths together, beckoning her to explore this connection further and perhaps find echoes of her treasured memories within Asher's captivating presence.

Lemiel Silavamillion

Is this the kid you're talking about?

"You want some food?" Asher takes the bread that was placed on the table and pinches it to take a small portion. He brought it closer to the bird.

The bird looked at the bread and ate it.

"I'll name you Secre." When she heard what Asher named her, she accidentally swallowed the bread in her mouth.

This is really too much of a coincidence. Asher knows she's not a normal anti-bird and also knows her real name.

*Chirp* *Chirp*

"Since you're not noisy, you can come back here anytime you want."

*Chirp*

.....................

Asher woke up and got dressed. It's his first day as a magic knight. He was wearing the uniform of the Crimson Lion, the same uniform as Fuegoleon, since the uniform was made for royals.

He goes to the captain's office to get some missions. He doesn't have anything to do, and this is the opportunity to get some experience.

He knocks on the door lightly and waits for Fuegoleon's answer.

"Come in" When Asher heard Fuegoleon's voice, he didn't hesitate and get inside the room.

"Asher, welcome; that uniform suits you well," Fuegoleon said with a smile. He was a bit proud when he saw his nephew wearing the Crimson Lion Robe.

"Thank you. Uncle, I've been training nonstop in the past few months. I want experience. Please give me a mission."

Fuegoleon's astonishment was evident as he listened to Asher's eagerness. It had only been a short while since Asher had become a magic knight, and already he was yearning to embark on a mission. Fuegoleon couldn't help but marvel at his nephew's exceptional drive and determination, setting him apart from his peers. Asher possessed an unwavering commitment to self-improvement, coupled with ambitious aspirations that extended far beyond the present moment. Fuegoleon couldn't deny his immense pride in Asher's unwavering work ethic, yet simultaneously, a hint of concern crept into his heart. He wanted nothing more than for Asher to find happiness and fulfillment in his life, cautioning him against pushing himself too hard and encouraging him to savor the journey and relish the joys that lay along the path to greatness.

"Asher, are you sure? Don't you want to familiarize yourself first?"

"That can be done anytime. I just want a mission. I don't mind if you make someone accompany me."

Fuegoleon sighs and says," Fine, I'll give you a mission. Randall will accompany you. Be careful; this mission is a little dangerous."

"I'll gladly take it. Shall I call the vice captain?"

"No, I asked someone to call him."

"Is that so? I'll see you later then."

"Wait a minute, Asher."

Just as Asher was preparing to depart, Fuegoleon's voice halted him in his tracks. Intrigued, he turned around, only to witness Fuegoleon reaching for the necklace adorning his own neck. With a solemn expression, Fuegoleon carefully unclasped the necklace, revealing a pendant of great significance. The pendant, a family heirloom passed down through generations, held deep sentimental value. Fuegoleon extended his hand, presenting the pendant to Asher.

The pendant on the necklace features a triangular shape with vibrant red hues, adorned with a captivating pattern. Positioned above a crescent, a circle takes center stage, while four interconnected spades complete the intricate design.

"Hm?" Asher raised an eyebrow.

"Come here, Asher. This is my congratulations gift for you on becoming a magic knight. I didn't witness your growth for 15 years, so this is at least something I can do to make up for that."

Aware that declining the gesture would not dissuade Fuegoleon, Asher took a step closer to his uncle, a silent understanding passing between them. Without a word, Asher turned his back and lifted his long hair, showing his nape, a subtle indication of his acceptance. Fuegoleon's smile grew slightly, recognizing Asher's intention. With a gentle touch, he carefully fastened the necklace around Asher's neck, securing the symbol of their family's legacy. As the clasp clicked into place, a sense of unity and strength resonated between them. The necklace now adorned Asher, serving as a reminder of their shared heritage and the unbreakable bond they held. It was a small act, yet it held profound meaning. A testament to their mutual support and the unspoken understanding that, no matter the path Asher chose, Fuegoleon would always be there, guiding him and reminding him of the importance of family and finding joy along the way.

"Take care of that pendant for me."

"Thank you, uncle. I'll make sure no one touches it."