After leaving the restaurant and enjoying a quiet moment with Emily, Lusian felt that the day still held surprises. The excitement of the 1A class qualifying tournament could be felt from afar; the crowds of students and spectators filled the corridors of the academy, and the air vibrated with anticipation for the duels to come.

  As they approached the edge of the arena, that sense of anticipation grew, as if every spark of magic streaking across the sky were heralding the challenges awaiting them.

  "Looks like the tournament's already started," Lusian remarked, watching groups of students rushing toward the arena.

  Emily followed, curiosity lighting her eyes as she noticed the mixture of anxiety and expectation on his face.

  "Shall we watch up close?" she asked, captivated by the energy radiating from the place.

  "Yes, but let's stay discreet," Lusian replied. "Today is the day of the first battles. Watching them can teach you more than any book."

  They arrived at the main platform just in time to see the first fights. Lusian, fully recovered from his injuries, focused on the participants who clashed with strength and skill.

  Master Austin called Kasper Bourlance and Nilson Stanley to the platform, and the battle began swiftly. Kasper gave Nilson no chance, overwhelming him with sword strikes enhanced by sheer physical power, breaking his defenses and rendering him unconscious with a precise blow to the head.

  After Nilson was escorted to the recovery area, the next match summoned Corwin Armett and Craig Denisse. Flames and ice collided as their spells clashed, creating a dense cloud of steam. Finally, Corwin used the moisture accumulating on the ground to destabilize Craig, knocking him out with a quick, precise strike, leaving the crowd in awe.

  In another corner, Conwick Briggs faced Darilyn Macallister. Earth and magic collided in a fierce duel, where every calculated move could decide the outcome. Darilyn dodged and blocked his attacks, forcing Conwick into close combat, searching for a barely existent weakness.

  While the arena trembled with the chaos of battle, Lusian observed from a secluded corner. Approaching Master Austin with a mix of anxious anticipation, he asked:

  "Am I going to have to fight today?"

  The master smirked:"Perhaps it's better to save your strength for the next qualifier. You wouldn't want to use the excuse that Kara broke a bone, would you?"

  Lusian nodded, aware that the tournament was just beginning and that each encounter would be a lesson—not only in combat, but in strategy and emotional control.

  After the tension of the tournament and the intense battles, Lusian felt the need for a respite. The next day, the routine of Faldmord Academy brought him to one of those classes he always considered "unnecessary," but obligatory: arts and culture, aimed at fostering sophistication within the higher social spheres. Lusian found this peculiar; he would have preferred facing his next duel than sitting through discussions about art.

  Walking past the music section, Lusian watched students absorbed in their instruments. With curiosity and a touch of resignation, he tried his hand at the piano. His fingers trembled over the keys, and after a few attempts, the melody he produced was a mess. Guitar, violin… nothing seemed to respond to his touch.

  He felt discouraged until his eyes landed on a flute abandoned in a corner. The instrument evoked memories of another life, a time when music had been his refuge. Carefully, he moved toward the warm light filtering through the window and began to play. A soft, melancholic melody filled the air, captivating even those at a distance.

  Far away, Isabella was weary of Caleb and Leonardo's constant squabbles for her attention. Their power games and vanity bored her endlessly. Then, a soft, mournful sound reached her from the corner of the room: a flute, played with delicate precision.

  Isabella furrowed her brow slightly, recognizing the skill behind the music. Her mind raced—she knew the name of the boy playing. His reputation preceded him, and the shadow of past events sent a shiver down her spine. Yet the music was impossible to ignore; it was beautiful, sorrowful, almost familiar in a way she could not explain.

  She stayed hidden behind a column, observing without approaching, not wanting to draw attention, yet her heart quickened at the authenticity of the sound. For a moment, Isabella let the music envelop her, setting aside the fears that kept her captive to noble intrigues, though remaining cautious.

  Lusian, unaware of Isabella's presence, continued playing, lost in his memories. The young woman remained in the shadows, a silent witness unwilling to cross the line.

  Finally, curiosity and fascination compelled Isabella to step a few paces closer, enough for Lusian to notice her. Her voice, barely above a whisper, joined the flute's notes:

  "What a beautiful melody! Where did you learn it?"

  Surprised by her voice and unexpected presence, Lusian stopped playing and looked at her, noticing the mix of caution and admiration in her eyes."It's a melody I heard in a very distant land," he replied, a mysterious air about him.

  This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

  Still cautious, Isabella allowed a small sparkle in her eyes."Where is that land? I'd love to visit someday."

  Lusian lowered his gaze, his voice tinged with melancholy."Unfortunately, I don't think I can go there. Not even I can."

  Disappointment crossed Isabella's face, but her passion for music remained undimmed."I would have loved to learn that melody," she confessed, her voice trembling slightly.

  Recognizing her genuine interest, Lusian smiled faintly."It's not that difficult. If you want, you can try to play it on the piano. I saw you earlier—you're quite good."

  Isabella cautiously approached the piano, ready to follow Lusian's melody. Her hands danced across the keys, transforming the flute's notes into a warmer, more vibrant tune. Upon finishing, she discreetly turned to him, maintaining her composure."Do you know more melodies?" she asked.

  "As a matter of fact, yes," Lusian replied, feeling an unexpected sense of connection he hadn't anticipated.

  At that moment, Leonardo interrupted, approaching with an air of superiority."If you really love music, Isabella, you could join me at the royal palace. They have exceptional musicians there."

  Isabella, polite but cautious, smiled softly."Thank you for the invitation, but I'll consider it another time."

  Lusian felt it was time to leave, but Isabella, discreetly and without exposing herself, asked:"Lord Lusian, when will you return to art class?" Her voice held both curiosity and respect.

  "I don't know… I suppose when I have time," he replied, surprised by her genuine interest in his melodies.

  Isabella tilted her head slightly, hope flickering in her eyes."Could you teach me another melody next time you come to class?"

  "Of course," Lusian answered, unexpectedly encouraged. "Next time then."

  A small smile lit Isabella's face."Perfect! I'll be waiting," she said softly, while Lusian walked away, a slight smile on his lips, reflecting on the subtle but meaningful connection that had begun—still distant, still cautious.

  As Lusian strode toward the exit, Leonardo blocked his path, surprised that someone like Lusian could enjoy music.

  "I didn't know someone like you liked music," Leonardo said, wearing a challenging grin.

  Lusian, aware of the image he needed to maintain, revealed no emotion and responded with determination:"Step out of my way!"

  Confident in his status, Leonardo refused, invoking his royal family ties, implying Lusian wouldn't dare strike him:"I don't think you'd dare. After all, who are you to challenge someone of my rank?"

  Calculating the situation, Lusian knew he needed to act like a Douglas to avoid bigger problems. Raising his voice, he made it clear he would not tolerate provocation:"Step aside. This is the last warning!"

  Without hesitation, Lusian channeled mana into his fist, striking Leonardo in the stomach with precision, leaving him breathless and crumpled on the floor. He didn't pause, continuing toward the classroom exit.

  As Leonardo struggled to rise, a pair of glowing yellow eyes approached his face. Umber, the black wolf that always accompanied Lusian, bared his fangs, nearly grazing Leonardo's cheek.

  Once Lusian exited, Umber backed off, faithfully following his master down the corridor.

  Lusian rested quietly when a knock came at his door. A servant informed him:"Lord Lusian, Messrs. Dilan Bourlance, Julian Erkhan, and Liam Briggs await you in the reception hall."

  Without looking up, Lusian made his way to the hall and found the disciplinary committee of Class A awaiting him.

  Dilan, formal, addressed him:"Lord Lusian, we are from the disciplinary committee. Due to the altercation in art class, the director requests your presence. Please come with us."

  Lusian replied with a hint of disdain:"That weakling Leonardo complained?"

  Julian, serious, intervened:"No, Lord Lusian. Many witnessed the incident."

  Lusian nodded absentmindedly:"I see. Very well."

  Meanwhile, in the director's office, Magnus and Kara argued. Kara, frustrated, exclaimed:"None of what you teach works! I lost again. How am I supposed to improve quickly?"

  Magnus, calm, replied:"Don't seek shortcuts. Training is step by step. Don't try to run before learning to walk."

  "But while you teach me useless things, Lusian grows stronger! Didn't you see how humiliating the last fight was?" Kara insisted.

  Magnus acknowledged the situation:"You've grown, but so has he. Albert created a monster that evolves with every battle. His reflexes, his instincts… the more you fight him, the more he adapts to your style. I know because I've experienced it too. But I'm confident you'll overcome this obstacle. Just don't rush it."

  Kara, on the brink of rage, shouted:"DAMN LUSIAN! I HATE HIM!"

  She stormed out of the office, meeting Dilan escorting Lusian. Kara glanced at Lusian, but he ignored her, moving on. Whispering to his brother Magnus, she asked:"Did you hear that?"

  Magnus, lightly sarcastic, replied:"Other than your shouts of hatred for Lusian, nothing. Relax, everything's fine."

  Embarrassed, Kara muttered:"Damn… how I hate him."

  In the office, Magnus invited Lusian to sit and served him a drink."I admire your courage. Did you really hit a prince?" he asked.

  "I just removed a fly in my path. I warned him several times, but he refused to listen," Lusian replied calmly.

  Magnus pondered:"I'll need to report this to the royal family and your parents. This could become a political problem."

  Lusian stifled a laugh:"You and I both know nothing will happen. The royal family and the Douglases already work together to neutralize empire conspiracies. Also, isn't the academy's policy about equality? Or is that just for show?"

  Magnus, surprised by his insight, said:"You're very mature for your age. Laurence must be blind if he thinks Caleb is the heir."

  "That's irrelevant. Why did you call me?" Lusian asked.

  "I thought you'd get scared and correct your bad behavior, but I see that's useless," Magnus replied.

  "I see. If that's all, I'll go. Oh, and if you want me to behave, keep Kara away from me," Lusian said.

  "I can't promise that. That girl is uncontrollable, but I'll try to ensure she only challenges you after graduation," Magnus answered.

  "Why is she so obsessed with me?" Lusian asked.

  "Because you defeated her. You're younger, humiliated her, and gave her a good beating. Still asking why?" Magnus explained.

  "Well, Alejandro and Andrew also defeated her," Lusian countered.

  "They only survived with a little mana left. If Kara had been given victory, no one would have said a word. So you'll have to endure her until she beats you," Magnus explained.

  "Are you sure she can beat me? Next time, I'll hit her so hard she won't even remember who she is," Lusian challenged.

  "Whatever. Endure her and don't cause more problems. Leave now," Magnus commanded.

  Exiting, Lusian encountered Axel Thompson, whose face radiated arrogance and determination. Without flinching, Axel held up the documents for Lusian's possible expulsion, proudly presenting them to Magnus.

  But Lusian didn't even react; he walked with steady steps, completely ignoring the implied threat. Axel, annoyed, stepped forward to stop him, but a single shout from Magnus made him retreat immediately:

  "Enter and close the door!"

  Resigned, Axel obeyed, letting Lusian continue unimpeded, his shadow emanating silent authority and defiance.