The morning was quiet, yet filled with anxious anticipation.
Alex stood by the gates of the new estate, with Emma and Gabriel by his side, while the maids gathered a little behind them. Though silent, the maids' restrained smiles and slightly tense gazes revealed their emotions.
Unable to hold back, Emma embraced her son as if he were a child she was about to lose sight of.
"Take care of yourself, my son. And don't forget to visit us from time to time," she said, her voice warm and full of care.
"Mom, it's not like I'm going off to war," Alex smiled, hugging her back. "It's just the Academy."
"But it's an Academy where you'll not only have to study but prove your worth," Gabriel said, stepping closer and patting his son on the shoulder. "Remember, we're proud of you."
"And we'll always be here waiting for you," added Alpha, stepping forward on behalf of all the maids. Her voice was calm, but a hint of worry glimmered in her eyes.
"Thank you," Alex nodded to her, then turned his gaze to the other girls. "You all take care too. Don't overwork yourselves, alright?"
A few maids giggled quietly but quickly covered their mouths, remembering that their "master" was now officially an aristocrat.
"Well, shall we go?" came Adam's voice from a little distance away, where he stood with Count Astarion.
Alex nodded and took one last look at his parents and the maids.
"I promise I'll come back stronger," he said, adding a note of confidence to his words.
"We have no doubt," Gabriel replied, looking at his son with pride.
"Alright then, see you soon!"
Alex waved goodbye before disappearing with Adam and Astarion into the light of the magic circle.
For a moment, silence enveloped the estate.
Emma sighed softly, while Alpha bowed slightly, as if to say everything would be fine.
"May luck be with him," she whispered.
"He'll manage," Gabriel replied confidently. "He's our son, after all."
Adam, Alex, and Astarion reappeared before the grand gates of the Academy.
The monumental walls rose high into the sky, and the sharp spires of the towers pierced the clouds, creating an impression of unattainable majesty.
The stonework was adorned with intricate patterns and reliefs depicting scenes from the history of the magical world.
The massive black metal gates shimmered with silver, and above them loomed the Academy's crest — an open book surrounded by seven swords.
Around the gates stretched carefully tended gardens with flowering bushes and trees, woven harmoniously with marble pathways.
Students hurried to their buildings, while the professors seemed engrossed in important discussions.
The atmosphere was thick with the energy of the future and hidden possibilities.
"Impressive, isn't it?" Adam asked with a smile, glancing at Alex.
"It's just as beautiful as I remember," Alex replied, calmly surveying the familiar landscape.
There was a note of nostalgia in his voice.
Suddenly, a young vampire girl approached them.
She wore a dark blue cloak embroidered with the silver crest of the Academy.
Her large red eyes shimmered under the sunlight, and she held a small tablet with notes in her hands.
"Good day, Count Astarion," she said politely, bowing slightly. "My name is Mira. I assist in organizing Academy events. Miss Elizabeth asked me to escort the boys to the main square, where the official speech will begin in twenty minutes. As for you, Count, the Headmistress is waiting for you in her office."
"Thank you kindly, Miss Mira," Astarion replied with a slight nod.
He then turned to the boys.
"We'll meet later. Use this time to get acquainted with the Academy."
"Understood, Count," Alex replied briefly with a nod.
Astarion vanished in a flash of magic, leaving them alone with Mira.
"Please follow me," Mira said, motioning for the boys to follow as she led them along a marble path through the gardens.
Mira guided them down a narrow trail that wound through the gardens.
Tall trees cast cool shade, and birds sang melodiously from the branches above.
From time to time, they passed small fountains and arches made of white-silver stone, adding a special charm to the surroundings.
Eventually, they reached the main square of the Academy — a wide space surrounded by towering marble columns.
It was filled with students who had just crossed the Academy's threshold for the first time.
All of them eagerly awaited the appearance of those whose names had long since become legend — the seven directors.
Alex and Adam stood in the front row with Mira, watching the stage adorned with the Academy's crest and magical symbols.
The doors of the main building opened, and the seven directors stepped onto the stage.
Their presence radiated confidence and power, enough to captivate even the most discerning onlooker.
The first to speak was Elizabeth.
Her voice, loud and confident, instantly commanded silence.
"Welcome to the halls of the Academy! Here, you will discover your true worth and realize your true potential. Fear not the hardships, for they forge great warriors. Remember: your story depends on you alone."
After her, Valtherion Lawrence took the stage — an ordinary-looking man, yet his posture and calm confidence revealed the seasoned mage within.
"Success is the result of knowledge and perseverance. Waste not a single day at the Academy, for every lesson and every exercise is a step forward. You are the future of this world, and it is our duty to prepare you for it."
Next came Dionys, an elf with long silver hair whose grace was almost otherworldly.
His voice was smooth yet firm.
"Magic is not merely a tool but a part of your very being. You are here to learn to master it — not to be mastered by it. Let your hearts remain pure and your minds calm."
Then, Irida, a spirit glowing with emerald light, addressed the students.
Her voice rang like distant bells, touching everyone with its melody.
"You have come here to find yourselves. Listen to your inner voice and let it guide you. We are here to support you on your journey."
Next spoke Fenrix, a beastkin with piercing eyes and a powerful build that spoke of his strength.
His voice was low but warm.
"The Academy is a place where the weak become strong, and the strong grow even stronger. Let your dedication and perseverance help you reach heights you never dared to dream of."
The sixth to speak was Raphael, an angel whose voice, though soft, carried undeniable authority.
"Let the light always guide your path. Remember that true strength lies not only in power but also in compassion. We are here to teach you to understand and cherish both."
Finally, Krul, a demoness with a piercing gaze, addressed the students.
Her voice was deep and confident, but devoid of aggression or cruelty.
"The Academy is a trial you must endure. It is not merely a place of study, but a place where you become who you were always meant to be. Prove that you are worthy of this chance."
When the directors finished, the students burst into applause, inspired by their words.
Alex stood quietly, observing everything, and softly said to himself:
"Just like in the past."
"Well then, boys," said Mira, turning to them with a light smile. "It's time to head to the dormitory. I'll show you your room."
The path to the dormitory was short but picturesque. Narrow stone walkways led through gardens where rare magical plants grew, glowing softly in the twilight. Finally, they reached a tall building made of light stone, adorned with numerous windows and decorated balconies.
The room that Alex and Adam received was spacious and cozy. Two wide beds stood parallel to each other, with two small tables and softly glowing golden lamps between them. Along the walls were wardrobes for clothes and shelves for books. A large window overlooked the Academy's inner courtyard.
"I hope you'll like it here," Mira smiled. "Now, it's time to meet the Headmistress."
"Then let's not waste any time," Alex smiled.
Mira created a magical circle, and the three of them instantly disappeared into it, transporting themselves to Elizabeth's office.
Mira, Alex, and Adam appeared in Elizabeth's spacious office. Tall bookshelves, filled with magical tomes, lined the walls. On the table in the center stood an exquisite candelabrum, casting a soft golden light that created a warm atmosphere.
Elizabeth, sitting in an armchair behind the desk, broke off her conversation with Astarion and greeted them with a welcoming smile.
"Thank you, Mira, for bringing them," she said.
"Always at your service, Headmistress," Mira replied with a slight bow. "If there's nothing else, I'll return to my duties."
"Of course, you may go. Thank you again," Elizabeth nodded, and Mira left the office, closing the door behind her.
Elizabeth turned her gaze to the boys, crossing her arms and leaning lightly against the desk.
"So, how do you like the Academy? What are your impressions?" Her voice was friendly, yet carried a note of genuine curiosity.
"It's incredible," Adam answered first. "Everything is so grand and... alive. I never imagined it would be this impressive."
"I completely agree," Alex supported him. "No wonder the Academy is called the best educational institution on the continent."
Elizabeth nodded, smiling in satisfaction.
"I'm glad to hear that."
When she finished, Astarion, who had been standing, leaning against the edge of Elizabeth's desk, joined the conversation.
"Well, allow me to say a few words too. Boys, I want to wish you a fruitful and meaningful time here at the Academy. Adam, you know how proud I am of you, and I'm confident you'll make the most of this opportunity. Alex, although this isn't your first time here, I hope you'll once again enjoy the peaceful student life. Make the most of this moment."
"Thank you, Father."
"You can count on us," Alex smiled. "In five years, we'll become so strong, you won't believe your eyes. Right, Adam?" he said, nudging Adam lightly with his elbow.
"Right," Adam replied confidently.
"I like your attitude," the Count smiled. "Adam, may I have a word with you?"
"Yes, of course," Adam stepped closer to his father.
"We'll leave you for a few minutes. Don't get bored without us," the Count said with a playful smile before he and Adam disappeared from the office.
As soon as Astarion and Adam vanished, silence enveloped the office. Elizabeth, now alone with Alex, stepped out from behind her desk and sat down in a chair beside him. Her usually strict and refined demeanor now gave off a different aura — one of tenderness and care, more fitting of a sister and an aunt.
"Well, now we can talk in peace," she said with a gentle smile. "How are your parents?"
"They're doing well," Alex replied, settling comfortably into his chair. "They're still getting used to the new estate, but they seem happy."
Elizabeth smiled, though a faint sadness flickered in her eyes. She paused briefly, as if searching for the right words.
"And how is Gabriel?" Her voice grew softer. "In the future... was I able to... reconcile with him?" She hesitated, avoiding Alex's direct gaze. "Did I manage to make peace with him?"
Alex looked at his aunt intently. Her anxiety was clear to him. He nodded, a warm smile appearing on his face.
"Yes, you did," he answered calmly. "And honestly, it became one of the best moments for our family."
Elizabeth exhaled in relief, her shoulders relaxing slightly, gratitude shining in her expression.
"Thank you, Alex," she whispered, lowering her gaze. "It means a lot to me."
She fell silent for a moment, her eyes drifting as if recalling something. Then she returned her attention to her nephew, her demeanor now more confident.
"And now, tell me — what are your plans for the first few days at the Academy?" she asked, steering the conversation to a lighter topic.
Alex thought for a moment before answering:
"As I mentioned at the Count's estate, my main goal is to meet Krul and try to become her apprentice."
Elizabeth raised an eyebrow, barely hiding a smile.
"Ah, right. I had already forgotten. Krul is one of the best in her field, but I doubt she'll want to take you as a student."
"And that's just because I'm not a demon?" Alex asked, tilting his head slightly.
"Exactly," Elizabeth replied, leaning forward a little. Her voice grew more serious. "Krul works exclusively with demonic magic, and as you understand, that magic is closely tied to demon blood. She has her own standards and doesn't waste time on those she believes will never truly master it. Of course, anyone — human or vampire — can theoretically learn dark, or as it's often called, demonic magic, but it's incredibly difficult. Only a handful of humans and vampires have ever been able to use even its basic spells."
Alex stayed silent for a moment, contemplating her words, then continued:
"Still, it's possible — and that means I have to at least try. Can you arrange a meeting for us?"
Elizabeth smirked, crossing her arms over her chest.
"I can. Especially since you already made a good impression on her during the entrance exam. That's a strong start. But be prepared — you'll have to convince her."
"I'll think of something," Alex smiled.
"But first, I'll need your help with a certain matter. If you handle the task well, I'll do everything in my power to arrange your meeting with Krul — and even put in a good word for you."
"And what exactly do I need to do?" Alex asked, focusing his attention on Elizabeth.
"It's simple," she replied, smiling the way she always did before coming up with something clever.
"A familiar smile. It always comes before something intriguing," he noted.
Elizabeth rose from her chair, walked over to the bookshelf, and pulled out a thin volume with a red cover. Flipping through the pages, she said:
"Alex, have you heard of Aria and Damian Ravenford?"
The boy pondered, his gaze focusing on the ceiling.
"I have," he replied after a pause. "They are the children of Count Ravenford, one of the most influential vampires on the continent. They were often mentioned during the war. My comrades spoke of them as promising young vampires. Though, I have never met them personally."
Elizabeth nodded, as if confirming his words.
"Their father approached me with a request to teach his children blood magic. I agreed and have been giving them private lessons at their estate for the past three months."
Alex tilted his head with interest.
"And how are they doing?"
"Honestly, Aria exceeded all my expectations. She can already freely extract blood from her body and shape it. Her progress is impressive. As for her brother, things are a bit more difficult. Damian has just learned how to draw out blood, but he still can't control its form."
Elizabeth looked at her nephew again, her expression turning serious.
"But now, with the start of the academic year, I won't have time to continue working with both of them. That's why I'm turning to you."
Alex looked at her intently.
"You want me to teach one of them?"
"Exactly," Elizabeth nodded. "If you remember the lessons I gave you in the past, and listened carefully, you should know blood magic almost as well as I do."
The boy thought for a few seconds.
"And who exactly will I be teaching?"
"Aria," Elizabeth answered without hesitation. "She has already made significant progress, and it will be easier to work with her. Damian still requires more time and patience, so I'll handle him myself."
Alex smiled, recalling the stories about Aria he had heard from his comrades.
"Calm and composed. If that's true, teaching her shouldn't be a problem," he thought.
"Alright," he said confidently. "I agree to teach her."
Elizabeth smiled warmly.
"Thank you, Alex. I knew I could count on you."
The morning sun streamed through the vast windows of the Academy, filling the corridors with warm, golden light.
Alex and Adam made their way up to the second floor, where their first class was located. The doors were wide open, and students had already begun gathering inside.
The boys entered the spacious hall, its walls adorned with magical symbols that glowed faintly. Rows of desks formed a semicircle around a podium, where a small magical crystal stood.
As Alex and Adam walked toward the empty seats, some students began whispering.
"That's the son of Count Astarion!" a girl whispered, staring at Adam.
"And the other one... isn't he the guy who crushed Cyril during the exam?" a boy next to her asked quietly, throwing glances at Alex.
Alex caught these snippets of conversation and barely suppressed a smile.
"First day at the Academy, and I'm already a local celebrity," he thought as he sat down next to Adam.
Suddenly, a teacher entered the auditorium—a young demon with dark blue hair. His eyes glowed red, and his posture radiated confidence.
He placed a book on the podium and swept his gaze over the students.
"Good morning," he greeted, his voice deep yet soft. "My name is Waldemar, and I will be your instructor in the basics of magic."
He paused briefly, giving the students time to settle, then continued:
"You might find this subject boring, since most of you are here to learn spells, create magical barriers, or manipulate the elements. But without the basic knowledge of magic, you will never achieve true mastery."
The students listened attentively, some already taking notes.
"Let's start with the simplest question," Waldemar said, raising his hand as if posing a challenge. "How does magic work?"
The room fell silent. Everyone seemed to be waiting for someone else to answer.
The teacher smiled and shook his head.
"You all passed the entrance exam. You used magic to do so. But now, I ask you to explain, in words, exactly what you did. Who would like to try?"
Alex raised his hand, drawing Waldemar's attention.
"Please, Mister Alex," the demon nodded in his direction.
Alex stood up and calmly began:
"To make a spell work, you need to define its shape, size, and speed."
"Is that all?" Waldemar asked, intrigued.
"Of course not," Alex replied, smiling. "First, the mage must clearly visualize the spell they want to create. Then, they form a magic circle into which they pour their mana. After that, they define the shape, size, and speed, and only then is the spell activated."
Waldemar listened attentively, nodding when Alex finished.
"An excellent answer," he said with a satisfied smile. "You clearly understand the basics."
"Thank you," Alex nodded and sat down.
The teacher picked up the book from the podium and continued:
"Now, let's talk about mana. It is the foundation of any magical process. Mages have two sources of mana. The first is the mana you are born with, which can be increased by developing the corresponding attribute. The second source is mana elixirs. But don't be quick to think that elixirs can bypass your natural limits."
Waldemar paused, allowing the students to write down his words, then went on:
"Mana elixirs are a temporary solution. They can restore your mana but will never replace your natural source. And remember this fundamental rule: a true mage always relies on themselves."
Until the end of the lesson, Waldemar continued explaining the basics of magic.
Even though Alex had heard it all before, he had to admit: the demon delivered the material with such enthusiasm and interest that even the simplest facts seemed significant.
"Credit where it's due," Alex thought, watching the instructor illustrate his points with gestures and examples. "Even the basics sound fascinating when taught by a true professional."
After the lecture ended, the practical lesson on mana control began. It was held in a spacious hall filled with magical crystals that glowed in different colors depending on the student's level of mana concentration.
The class was led by a young elf woman with long, silvery hair cascading over her shoulders. Her voice was soft yet clear, and her demeanor radiated confidence and experience.
She started by explaining to the students what they would be doing in her lessons. Her words were brief but informative. Alex immediately noticed that she had the rare ability to hold the audience's attention effortlessly.
After her introductory speech, she announced the end of the class, allowing the students to leave for a break.
"I didn't think attending classes a second time would be this interesting," thought Alex as he left the hall. "If it continues like this, these five years definitely won't be wasted."
"Well, that's it for today," said Adam, glancing at Alex. "What are your plans?"
"I arranged to meet Elizabeth after classes," Alex replied, smiling casually. "So I'm heading to her now."
"Got it," Adam nodded. "I'll probably go grab something at the cafeteria. I'll wait for you in the room later."
"Alright, see you then," Alex raised his hand in a casual farewell gesture.
"See you," Adam called back, walking toward the cafeteria.
Alex watched him go and, sighing lightly, headed toward Elizabeth's office.
Alex knocked lightly on the door before entering Elizabeth's office. Inside, three figures were already waiting. Elizabeth, seated behind her massive desk, greeted him with a warm smile.
"Alex, it's good to see you," she said, gesturing toward the table. "Come, sit with us."
Two young vampires, sitting with their backs to the door, turned to face Alex at the same time. They were Aria and Damian. Their faces immediately piqued Alex's interest — the striking features of both faintly reminded him of the father he had heard so much about.
Alex nodded in response to the invitation and approached. He took the third chair opposite Elizabeth's desk and glanced at the young Ravenfords. Aria, with dark hair cascading in waves over her shoulders and sharp, observant eyes, looked confident but not arrogant. Damian, with short-cropped hair and a slight hint of a smile, seemed more relaxed, though his eyes showed clear interest and restrained excitement.
"So, Alex, meet Aria and Damian," Elizabeth said, turning to her students. "Children of Count Ravenford."
Alex nodded to them and offered a slight smile.
"Nice to meet you," he said calmly, though with a touch of warmth in his voice.
"Likewise," Aria responded briefly, her voice reserved but slightly cold.
"Finally, we meet," added Damian, his tone softer than his sister's, and he even smiled a little. "Miss Elizabeth has told us so many interesting things about you."
"Now, let's get down to business," Elizabeth interrupted Damian, shifting her gaze from Alex to Aria. "Aria, starting today, Alex will be your new blood magic instructor."
Aria flinched, her eyes widening slightly, but she quickly regained her composure. She gripped the armrests of her chair and asked, calmly but firmly:
"With your permission, Headmistress, but why did you make such a decision?"
Elizabeth answered calmly yet firmly:
"As I mentioned before, with the start of the academic year, I'll have much less time to dedicate to both of you. Aria, you've made significant progress over the past months. You can already manipulate your blood freely, shaping it into defined structures. What remains are just the finer details, which Alex, as my former student, can teach you just as well as I could. Meanwhile, I will continue working with Damian, as he is still at the beginner stage."
Aria pressed her lips together tightly, clearly displeased with the answer.
"But I would prefer to continue studying under you," she objected, her voice still controlled but resolute.
"Sister, calm down," Damian interjected, raising his hand to cut her off. "If it's so important, I can study under Alex instead. Or stop training altogether if it means that much to you."
"No, Damian," Aria replied firmly without even looking at him. "This isn't something to be decided through sacrifices."
"Calm and composed… And this is the girl they spoke so highly of?" Alex thought with a touch of sarcasm. Out loud, he said:
"Aria," his voice steady and confident, "what would I need to do to make you agree to study under me?"
Aria looked at him, surprised, as if she hadn't expected such an option. She thought for a few seconds, then a barely noticeable smile crossed her face.
"A duel," she said seriously. "If I win, I continue studying under Miss Elizabeth. If you win, I will become your student."
Alex nodded slightly, accepting the challenge.
"Agreed."
Elizabeth let out a heavy sigh, leaning back in her chair.
"Why can't anything ever be simple... Fine. We'll do it right now to settle this once and for all."
She rose from her seat and extended her hand, creating a magical circle.
"Please," she indicated for the students to step into the circle.
Everyone stood up and, stepping into the circle, disappeared from the office.
The bright light of the magic circle faded, and all four found themselves in a spacious room. The walls were lined with smooth black stone, while the floor of white marble was etched with thin lines forming magical symbols. Around the room, silver runes sparkled, creating a protective barrier that prevented magic from leaking beyond the space.
"This place was designed specifically for duels like this," Elizabeth explained, turning to Alex and Aria. "The rules are simple: you may use only blood magic. The winner is the one who first grabs the opponent's wrist."
"Understood," Alex and Aria replied simultaneously, nodding confidently.
Elizabeth approached Alex and whispered quietly in his ear:
"Just make sure you don't accidentally hurt her, understood?"
Alex smiled faintly and answered in a calm tone:
"Don't worry, aunt. I'll be as careful as possible."
Satisfied with his answer, Elizabeth stepped back to stand beside Damian, leaving Alex and Aria alone.
"I won't hold back," Aria said coldly, clenching her fists.
Alex said nothing, only watching her calmly, which made a flicker of irritation cross her face. Her wrists glowed red, and thin streams of blood flowed out, quickly forming two sharp daggers.
Without any warning, Aria made a lightning-fast dash forward. Her movements were so swift that she seemed to dissolve into the air; however, Alex dodged with perfect precision, maintaining a relaxed expression on his face.
"Her speed is excellent," he thought, stepping back and evaluating her technique. "But her attacks are too straightforward."
Aria launched another lunge, her daggers slicing through the air with lightning speed, but Alex once again easily dodged, barely lifting his hands.
"He's not even trying to attack!" flashed through her mind. "What an insult!"
Her movements became sharper, but with that, less precise. Thoughts swirled in Aria's head:
"Does this guy dare treat me like some rookie? Thinks he can just dodge and win? Never! I must prove that only Lady Elizabeth is worthy of being my mentor!"
Alex noticed how her concentration was starting to waver, and anger was increasingly influencing her actions.
"She needs to work on her self-control," he thought, dodging another strike. "The longer she stays angry, the more mistakes she makes."
Feeling that her attacks were getting her nowhere, Aria decided to change tactics. She abruptly stopped and raised both daggers above her head, merging them into a single large blood sphere.
"Enough playing," she thought, focusing her mana. "I'll show him that underestimating me is his greatest mistake."
Alex watched her actions with curiosity, a faint smile playing on his lips.
"Interesting," he thought. "But her technique is still flawed."
The blood sphere quickly transformed into a massive spear, which Aria hurled at Alex with all her strength. However, he merely stepped lightly aside, and the spear crashed into the floor with a loud thud, splattering blood all around.
"What the...?" Doubt began creeping into Aria's mind. "How does he do it?!"
Seeing his opponent gradually lose control of her emotions, Alex decided it was time to end the duel.
When Aria rushed at him with a new series of attacks, Alex caught the moment when she slightly lost her balance. With a swift motion, he dodged her dagger, deflected her second strike, and at the same moment grabbed her wrist.
"Victory is mine," he said calmly, smiling.
Aria flinched, feeling his firm grip on her hand. The anger in her eyes shifted to irritation, but she didn't argue. Her daggers disintegrated, turning back into blood that returned to her body.
"How is this possible?" she thought, looking at Alex. "Was he just... playing with me?"
Elizabeth and Damian approached them.
"Good duel," Elizabeth said, her voice calm but carrying a faint note of pride. "Well then, let's head back to the office," she added, activating a magic circle.
All four of them disappeared, leaving the dueling room empty.
They reappeared in Elizabeth's office. The Headmistress immediately walked to her desk, gesturing for Aria and Damian to sit down. Alex took his place by the table, carefully observing as Aria and Damian sat next to each other.
"Well then, Aria's and Alex's training sessions will start tomorrow," Elizabeth announced, lightly crossing her arms over her chest. "And you, Damian, will continue studying under me."
"Alright," Aria replied calmly, though a slight trace of irritation from the duel still lingered in her voice.
"Thank you, Lady Elizabeth," Damian added, nodding respectfully.
"That will be all for today," Elizabeth concluded. "You are free to go."
Aria and Damian stood up from their seats.
"Thank you for your time, Lady Elizabeth," Aria said, giving a slight bow. Then her gaze shifted to Alex. "And you too. See you tomorrow."
"See you tomorrow," Alex nodded, watching as Aria and her brother left the office.
Once the door closed, Elizabeth approached the table and sat down across from Alex, leaning back casually in her chair.
"Well, Alex, now it's your turn. What's your impression of Aria?"
Alex crossed his arms over his chest, thinking for a moment.
"She's talented," he said calmly. "Her speed and agility are at a good level. She can improvise, although her tactics are still too straightforward. However, her biggest problem is her emotions. The angrier she got, the more mistakes she made. Emotional control will be the first thing she'll have to work on."
Elizabeth nodded approvingly.
"You picked up on everything correctly. I was observing the duel, and your conclusions match mine. That's a good sign. I believe you'll handle her training well."
"Thank you," Alex replied shortly, smiling.
"By the way, how was your first day of lectures?" Elizabeth asked unexpectedly.
Alex relaxed slightly, leaning back in his chair.
"Interesting," he said. "Even though I've already studied all the material before, I have to give credit to the instructors. They present the information well, and even a second run through the content wasn't as boring as I expected."
Elizabeth smiled faintly.
"If you want, I can arrange it so you don't have to attend lectures."
Alex raised an eyebrow in surprise.
"Is that possible?"
"Of course," she replied with light irony. "Alex, don't forget who I am. Sometimes directors pull a few strings so their students can skip lectures and focus on other important matters. The only condition is that you pass all the exams at the end of the semester along with the rest of the students."
Alex thought for a moment, then smiled.
"And it won't cost me anything? No 'favor for a favor'?"
Elizabeth gave him a sly smile.
"No favors. I simply believe it would be better for you to focus on training — both your own and Aria's."
"Alright, you've convinced me. Thanks, Aunt."
Elizabeth nodded, but then her gaze grew sharper.
"Anything else?"
Alex leaned forward slightly, smiling.
"Since I'll have more free time, I want to get permission to access high-ranking dungeons."
Elizabeth pulled a card from her desk drawer and placed it in front of Alex.
"I knew you'd ask for that. But before I give this to you, I want to personally accompany you to an A-rank dungeon. I want to see what my nephew is capable of."
Alex nodded, accepting the condition.
"Deal," Alex agreed.
Elizabeth smiled again.
"Well, you did a good job today. I think you deserve some rest."
"I'll do just that. Thanks again for everything, Aunt Elizabeth."
"Always happy to help. Have a good day."
"Same to you," he replied, standing up and leaving the office.
When Alex returned to his room, he saw Adam lying on his bed, deeply engrossed in a book. Hearing the creak of the door, Adam looked up and said with a light smile,
"So, how did the meeting with Lady Elizabeth go?"
"Interesting. I'm officially Aria Ravenford's teacher in blood magic now."
Adam was silent for a second, then suddenly burst out laughing. His reaction surprised Alex, who frowned and approached.
"Why that reaction?" Alex asked, crossing his arms over his chest.
Adam wiped a tear from laughing and looked up at his friend.
"It's just... I know Aria pretty well. And, how should I put this... she's got a bit of a difficult personality."
"A difficult personality?" Alex tilted his head, looking at Adam with interest. "What do you mean?"
Adam grinned mischievously, set the book aside, and leaned back against his pillow.
"You'll see for yourself soon enough."
"Calm and composed, calm and composed... What have I gotten myself into?" Alex thought, almost rolling his eyes.
"By the way," Alex added, turning to Adam again, "starting tomorrow, you'll be attending all lectures alone."
"What?" Adam shot up, his eyes wide. "Why?"
Alex sat on his bed, rubbing the bridge of his nose before explaining.
"Elizabeth's arranging it so I won't have to attend lectures. All I'll need to do is pass the exams at the end of the semester. She believes it's better if I focus on training with Aria and on my personal development. And just to be clear—it was her idea, not mine. But if such an offer is on the table, it would be a sin to refuse."
Adam frowned a little but quickly masked his emotion and leaned back.
"Hmm, at first I'd almost be jealous, but you know... it makes sense."
"Exactly," Alex smiled, sprawling across his bed.
The boys chatted a little longer about random things—lectures, upcoming training sessions, and the dungeons Alex planned to visit.
Soon, the room fell into silence. Feeling the exhaustion from the busy day, Alex closed his eyes and quickly drifted off to sleep, while Adam lingered a bit longer with his book before setting it aside and following him into slumber.