The trio arrived at the Lord's manor soon enough. The gates were imposing, black iron twisted into intricate designs that hinted at the power within. Two guards stood watch, their armor gleaming faintly in the light, and their stern expressions offered no welcome.

Marella stepped forward without hesitation, addressing the taller of the two guards. "We're here to see Lord Nessleson. My brother has an appointment," she declared, her voice steady and authoritative.

The guard's gaze flicked to Ethan, his expression unchanging. "Name and purpose?" he asked curtly.

"Ethan Rutgard," Ethan replied, stepping up beside his sister. "I am here to report to the Lord for the awakening and academy assignment."

The guard studied him for a moment longer before nodding. "Wait here." He turned and disappeared through a smaller side door, leaving the other guard silently standing watch.

Marella broke the silence, leaning closer to Ethan with a sly grin. "You know, you need to get your story straight. Riding your girl as an excuse won't exactly cut it."

Ethan shot her a glare, keeping his voice low. "I don't need your commentary right now, Marella."

"Just saying," she whispered back, a teasing lilt to her voice.

Lia, still standing a few steps back, seemed to shrink even further at the exchange, her hands twisting nervously. Ethan noticed and sighed, turning slightly toward her. "Relax," he said gently. "Just follow my lead. No one's expecting anything from you."

The side door creaked open again, and the first guard returned, his expression as unreadable as before. "Lord Nessleson will see you now," he announced, stepping aside to gesture them through.

Marella gave Ethan one last knowing look before heading in, her pace brisk and confident. Ethan let out a sigh and followed her.

The grand foyer of Lord Nessleson's manor stretched before them, a vast expanse of polished marble and soaring columns that seemed designed to overwhelm visitors with its sheer opulence.

Light filtered through stained glass windows, painting the floors in shades of gold, crimson, and sapphire. Servants moved quietly in the background, their footsteps muffled by thick rugs, while the distant murmur of conversation hinted at the presence of others further within.

A steward appeared as they reached the center of the room, his attire immaculate and his demeanor calm yet commanding. "Master Rutgard," he said with a slight bow. "Lord Nessleson awaits you in the council chamber. If you would follow me."

His gaze flickered briefly to Marella and Lia, curiosity evident but unspoken. "Your companions may wait here."

Marella frowned, clearly displeased at being sidelined, but Ethan quickly intervened. "That's fine," he said, casting her a warning glance. "I'll handle this."

She raised an eyebrow but relented with a shrug, stepping aside to lean casually against a pillar. "Don't screw it up," she muttered, her tone sharp.

Ethan turned to Lia, who looked even more anxious at the thought of being left behind. "You'll be fine," he assured her, his voice soft. "Just stay here and I will be back soon. We will be fine."

Lia nodded, though she still looked like a cornered rabbit. "Yes, master," she whispered.

Ethan sighed and straightened his shoulders, nodding to the steward. "Lead the way."

The steward led him down a long corridor. Finally, they reached a set of double doors, carved with intricate patterns. The steward pushed them open, revealing a circular chamber bathed in warm light.

Lord Nessleson sat at the far end of the room, his presence commanding despite the relaxed posture he held in his high-backed chair. His piercing eyes met Ethan's as he entered, and the faintest of smiles curved his lips—a smile that was neither welcoming nor unkind

"Ethan Rutgard," the Lord said, his voice smooth yet carrying an undeniable authority. "Step forward and let us begin."

Ethan took a deep breath, forcing himself to meet the man's gaze. One step at a time, he thought. "My Lord…" He began but the other person raised his hand.

"It's normal to be nervous. I do not hold you accountable for your tardiness. You are the son of my good friend after all. Let's just proceed with the awakening and see where we go from there." The response came a warm smile which Ethan was almost surprised to see. It was only for a moment but he definitely saw it.

"Thank you, my Lord," Ethan said, inclining his head in gratitude. Here he was expecting a full blown villain, but it looks like the story was taking a different turn.

Lord Nessleson clapped his hands. "Bring me an awakening crystal."

Ethan gulped. Here it goes. The explanation he had crafted in his head. "My Lord, pardon me but I have already awakened."

"Hmmm?" The man raised a brow.

"My Lord, the portal. I wanted to be of help so I rushed and -"

"You awakened... without oversight?"

"Yes, my Lord and I managed to get my level up during the insectoid attack." Ethan faked pride as he declared his level. Nessleson didn't interrupt, but his gaze sharpened, and Ethan could feel the weight of his scrutiny. Encouraged by the lack of immediate reprimand, he pressed on.

"I am a mage, my Lord."

The Lord was silent for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Ethan's heart thundered in his chest as he braced for judgment. Finally, Nessleson leaned forward, his piercing eyes locking onto Ethan's.