With the enlightenment from the ancient tome, Rien's formidable learning abilities astounded the nearly century-old headmaster. This only solidified the headmaster's belief that Rien was the one who could truly advance magic to new heights.
The morning passed swiftly under the headmaster's instruction, a time neither too long nor too short. Soon, Rien gently emerged from his meditative state.
In just a few hours, he not only mastered the art of teleportation but also learned a unique spell the headmaster had created: Space Blade.
Noticing the headmaster's weary demeanor, Rien hurried to pour him a cup of tea.
"Headmaster, please drink this to soothe your throat."
Although the tea had cooled, the headmaster didn't mind. He took the cup and drank it in one go, his gaze filled with admiration for Rien.
"Alright, Rien, that's enough for today. Make sure to practice these two spatial magics when you return. I hope you can master instant casting... Ah, right, you already possess the secret art of instant casting."
The headmaster paused and chuckled.
"Old age, I must be losing my touch."
He smiled briefly before continuing, "Even though you have instant casting, practicing will deepen your perception of spatial magic. It's a subtle benefit—you might not notice it right away, but in certain circumstances, it can prove invaluable."
"Understood, Headmaster. I'll take my leave now."
"Mm."
Rien placed the teapot down and left the headmaster's study. Watching his retreating figure, the headmaster pondered quietly to himself.
"It seems I must visit the Mage's Association on Rien's behalf."
The thought of the Mage's Association brought a brief, nostalgic gleam to his eyes…
As Rien stepped out of the headmaster's study, he saw a group of mages waiting by the door.
"Rien, where are you having lunch? Why don't you come to my place? I heard you love the Azure Lobster Tail. I had someone bring plenty just for you."
"Isn't it just Azure Lobster? Come eat at my place, Rien. My granddaughter will personally feed you."
"Tao, do you want a beating?"
Rien chuckled at the playful bickering of the mages. Despite their ulterior motives, their intentions were far from malicious. After all, the mages hoped that Rien would carry forward the magic they had devoted their lives to.
As an orphan from Blue Star, Rien found their warmth and concern unlike anything he had ever known, filling him with an unexpected sense of belonging.
"Thank you, my esteemed teachers, but my fiancée is coming this afternoon. I need to return home, but I'll make sure to visit each of you next time."
At hearing this, the mages reluctantly nodded in understanding.
One by one, Rien bid farewell to the professors and descended the magical staircase, the envious gazes of the few mage students lingering on him as he walked.
The Stan Family, Mansion Dining Room
Today's lunch consisted of Windy Steak paired with a light green citrus, steamed Crystal Shrimp, and roasted Magic-Horned Leopard hind legs. Silver cutlery gleamed under the light of the crystal chandelier, and Freya approached, tying a napkin around Rien's neck.
Rien, still struggling with the use of his fork and knife, managed to finish the meal, albeit with difficulty.
"Rien, once you're done, go upstairs and prepare yourself. Your mother has specially prepared a formal suit for your meeting."
As Rien finished the fruit, he nodded to his father's words. He ate the last bite of the mango fruit and, with a pat on his hands, led Freya upstairs.
In his room, Rien washed up with the help of Freya and the other maids. After stepping out of the bathroom, Rien waved his hand, and a gust of air wrapped around his wet hair, drying it in no time.
With the maids' assistance, he quickly donned a set of magnificent clothing. Anason and Bosa had originally prepared a set of noble attire for him, but when Rien saw the outfit, he frowned.
He adamantly instructed Freya to help him change into something more casual—his own preferred style.
Soon, the Hil family's carriage arrived at the Stan estate. The Hil family's patriarch, Charles Hill, descended from the first carriage, dressed in formal attire. He approached with a polite bow, offering a knight's salute.
"Good afternoon, Marquis Stan, Lady Stan."
"Good afternoon, Master Rien," he greeted with respect.
The Hill family was a newly ennobled family, their rank and influence nowhere near that of the venerable Stan family. The difference in status made Charles incredibly respectful.
Even though Rien had no title yet, his status was akin to that of a viscount, at least in the unofficial social rules of the nobility.
Anason nodded with a smile. "Alright, Charles, no need to be so formal. You were once the fifth captain of my Tiger Knight Brigade. We're like family."
"And where's Adelle? We haven't seen her since she was a child."
Charles smiled and waved at the second carriage in the convoy.
"Adelle, your Uncle Anason is calling you. Come out and don't keep him waiting."
Everyone turned toward the second carriage, but it remained still and silent.
Anason, puzzled, glanced at Charles, who was equally unsure. Charles hurried over to knock gently on the carriage door.
"Adelle?"
There was no answer.
Seeing the continued silence from inside, Charles forcefully broke the lock and opened the door. Anason and the others peered inside, but to their surprise, there was no sign of Adelle—only a maid who appeared to have been drugged.
The sight of Adelle's absence sent Charles into a panic. The disappearance of a bride-to-be was a major blow to the honor of both families, especially since the engagement between the Stan and Hill families had been so public. This would be an enormous embarrassment.
Charles wasn't about to make an enemy of Anason—he had witnessed firsthand how ruthless Anason could be with his foes.
With urgency, Charles used his energy to awaken the unconscious maid.
As the maid slowly regained consciousness, she saw Charles standing over her and immediately panicked, scrambling to kneel before him.
"Master… Master?"
"You are Adelle's personal maid, right? Where is she?" Charles asked, his voice frantic.
The maid looked around the carriage in confusion, realizing there was no sign of Adelle. She began to panic.
"Master… I don't know. This morning, she asked me to join her for some desserts. After we ate, I couldn't fight off my drowsiness, so I fell asleep… then I woke up to you calling me."
Charles's heart sank as he heard her story. Anason and Bosa exchanged concerned glances.
Rien, standing off to the side, raised an eyebrow at the sudden turn of events.
A runaway marriage?
His first time encountering such an occurrence. How rare.
"Charles, I need a reasonable explanation from you," Anason said sternly, his gaze locked on Charles.