Chapter 26: The time has come

In a room illuminated by the dim light of dusk, stood an athletic young man about 5 feet 6 inches tall. In front of a mirror, a boy of impressive appearance was reflected: black hair that fell to his shoulders, golden eyes that glowed with intensity and a sculpted figure. Naked before the mirror, his sharp face showed a mixture between supreme nobility and divine purity, although it still hinted at certain features of his youth. His presence radiated an elegance that few mortals could match.

At first, her expression was serene and distant, as if nothing in the mortal world deserved her attention. However, when an eagle flew over and landed on her shoulder, her gesture transformed into a gentle smile capable of warming even the coldest place in the world. "Ember, it's been two years since we arrived at Arx Regni. I have become much stronger. I can almost form the first layer in my Mana Core and rise to the rank of Squire and Acolyte," she stated in a reflective tone.

Ember, his faithful companion, nodded as Luzbel summarized the events of the past two years. "Training with Vlad and Placida has provided me with a solid foundation of knowledge in both mana handling and the art of swordsmanship. In addition the rigorous training at Interventus Celestis has given me very important practical knowledge," he continued. But then, he pushed those thoughts aside and remembered a blond boy and a lovely dark-haired girl. "Besides the training, I have made two great friends," she added with a smile on her lips.

Ember, noticing an omission in the list of friends mentioned, began to squeal and peck with discontent. Luzbel, between restrained giggles, knew she was annoyed at not being mentioned and said, "And, of course, my great companion Ember." At the clear mockery, Ember showed her displeasure, but also hinted at a hint of happiness and pride.

At that moment, the room was filled with a warm and cozy atmosphere. Luzbel and Ember shared a special connection, a friendship forged over time and shared adventures. Despite the hardships and challenges they had faced, their bond had grown stronger and they had become inseparable companions.

As dawn bathed the room in its soft golden light, Luzbel continued to reflect on the days past and the days to come. He knew he had come a long way, but he also understood that his journey was just beginning.

***

Luzbel looked away from the mirror and dressed in a white shirt and brown pants, preparing for the day ahead. Vlad, the loyal butler, as was customary, warned him that he should head for the courtyard. Luzbel nodded in understanding and made his way there.

When he reached the courtyard, he found himself in front of Vlad, but this time Morrigan was not present. It was strange, since during these two years he had been watching him train from a nearby bench. Luzbel abandoned his thoughts and focused his attention on Vlad as he began to speak. "Luzbel, you have already acquired all the basic knowledge of swordsmanship that I can teach you. Now you need to perfect your own style by venturing out into the world, learning from various people and accumulating experience," the butler stated with a smile.

Luzbel was taken aback at the realization that he was about to end a routine he had followed for two years, but nodded in understanding. Vlad continued, noting the confusion in the young man's eyes. "Besides, you're 14 years old, which means it's time for you to sit for the Mana Academy entrance exam," he announced with determination.

Luzbel nodded with strength and conviction, showing his willingness to face the challenge. Vlad, sensing the confidence in Luzbel's face, patted him on the shoulder and said, "I'll leave you here. In a little while Placida and Morrigan will come". With those words, the butler withdrew, leaving Luzbel alone in the courtyard.

After a while, Placida arrived accompanied by a very happy Morrigan, and the three greeted each other. Morrigan, in these two years, had become even more beautiful, radiating an elegance that made her look like a princess and a devilish attraction that could provoke wars for her beauty. The passage of time had transformed her childish body into a figure that began to manifest great femininity.

As she approached Luzbel, Morrigan took him by the arm and gently entwined hers with his. This action did not seem to surprise Luzbel, which hinted at the closeness they had developed during those two years. Placida, observing the scene, shook her head and sighed at her daughter's brazen actions, as well as Luzbel's lack of understanding.

Turning her attention away from that matter, Placida spoke earnestly. "Luzbel, Morrigan, today is our last day of lesson together. They are both 14 years old, and I have already provided them with the basic knowledge of mana handling. It's time for them to take the entrance exam for the Mana Academy," she announced with determination.

Placida looked at her daughter earnestly and added, "Morrigan, in these two years you have shown me that you have the ability to attempt the entrance exam, and so I will not stand in your way." Placida then turned her gaze to Luzbel and made a motherly request. "Luzbel, I have no doubt that you will be the best student the academy has ever had, but as a mother I ask you to look after Morrigan for me."

Luzbel nodded with determination, feeling the weight of responsibility on her shoulders, as Morrigan squeezed her arm tightly in support. Placida, noticing their reaction, gave a gentle smile and said, "The entrance exams will be held in the capital of each kingdom in a week's time, so Luzbel should give notice and say goodbye to your brigade."

Luzbel nodded once more and, after a brief chat between the three of them, they headed to breakfast together. The future lay before them, full of challenges and opportunities. The two young men, bound together by deeper ties than they had imagined, were preparing to set out on their journey to the Citadel of the Silver Dawn and its Mana Academy, where their destiny and their abilities would be put to the test.

***

After a comforting breakfast, Luzbel headed for the Barracks with determination. The path to the First Squadron of Interventus Urbs became familiar to him, as if each step brought him closer to his destination. As he reached the First Squadron headquarters, however, a strange calm filled the air. There was none of the usual bustle to be heard, nor did he see any comrades-in-arms. Luzbel frowned and made his way to the courtyard, where an unexpected surprise awaited him.

As he opened the courtyard doors, the sight that met his eyes was dazzling. The place was decorated with garlands, torches and tables laden with food and drink. All the members of the First Squadron were there, celebrating his departure to the Mana Academy and sending him off with an unforgettable feast.

Luzbel was greeted with joy and applause, and soon found himself in the middle of a lively chat with his companions. Lancelot approached him, a defiant smile on his face. "Luzbel, you will become a great warrior, but be aware that if you don't train hard enough, I will be waiting to surpass you," he said in a playful tone.

Luzbel laughed and accepted Lancelot's challenge, aware that competition between them would only make them stronger. Then, he approached Oliver, the squadron leader, who congratulated him for his great performance and assured him that they would reserve his place and wished him success on his way to the academy. Oliver spoke with sincerity and affection, demonstrating the appreciation and respect he had developed for Luzbel throughout their time together.

The party continued, and as the hours passed, some of the squadron veterans convinced the recruits to try alcoholic beverages. Music, laughter and battle stories mingled in the air, creating a festive atmosphere. As the night wore on, the alcohol began to affect many of those present, and some retired to rest or fell sound asleep in secluded corners.

Luzbel, staggering slightly from the effects of the alcohol, sought Ember's help to return home. With the support of his faithful companion, he made his way to the carriage Titus had arranged for him. The journey home became a challenging task due to his condition, but he finally arrived.

However, the alcohol clouded his mind and, in his confusion, Luzbel entered the wrong room. She stripped off her clothes and dropped heavily onto the bed, sinking into a deep, intoxicating sleep. Morrigan, surprised by the unexpected visit, tried to carry him to her own room, but was overcome by his clumsiness and strength. Morrigan tried to seek help from Ember but Ember, not wanting to know anything about the matter, flew off to Luzbel's room.

Luzbel, half dozing, heard a noise and mistook Morrigan for Ember in her reverie. Unaware of the situation, he embraced Morrigan tightly, preventing her from escaping his grasp. Morrigan, initially resistant, soon realized that she had little choice and decided to give in to the unusual situation.

The expression on Morrigan's face oscillated between shyness and happiness. The closeness between them, forged over two years of friendship and companionship, was now manifesting itself in a completely new way. Although surprised, Morrigan found some comfort in that embrace and allowed a hint of joy to play on her lips.