Of course, I can," Lucius said, flashing an enigmatic smile. "When can it be?"
"Tomorrow morning. Oh, right, before I forget."
Isabella's hands fumbled over her clothes, searching her pockets. The seconds dragged on, feeling like minutes, until she finally retrieved a sealed letter.
"This will allow you to leave the city. As for the books, they are in the city's largest library. Just mention Isabella sent you, and everything will be fine."
Lucius accepted the letter from Isabella, thanking her with a nod as she gently smiled and went on her way. He was eager to speak with Theo as soon as possible to prepare for their journey the next day. However, leaving the library during his work hours was out of the question. So, Lucius stayed there, diligently cleaning the shelves, organizing books, and ensuring everything was in its rightful place.
As the sun dipped below the horizon and the moon took its place in the night sky, Theo arrived at the library. He sought solace in its quiet corners every day, cherishing the opportunity to read and find tranquility.
Lucius finally approached Theo, taking a seat beside him and leaning in closer.
"I've found a way out for us," Lucius whispered, his tone filled with excitement. "We have a few books to retrieve in the city tomorrow, and we both have a chance to get there. Meet me at my apartment in the morning."
Theo stopped reading, his eyes widening as he stared at Lucius in astonishment. "How did you manage to arrange this so quickly? Also, tomorrow is our day off from school, so it's the perfect opportunity!"
It was merely a coincidence, but Theo believed Lucius had orchestrated it all according to plan. He was still somewhat naive and idealistic.
"Right. Anyway, don't be late," Lucius warned, his voice taking on a hint of playfulness. "Or you'll find your soul burning in the underworld for all eternity. Got it, lackey?"
Theo grinned, recognizing the playful banter in Lucius' tone. "I'll make sure to set an alarm for my soul then, boss. I'll see you bright and early at your place."
With their secret plan in motion, Lucius and Theo returned to their respective tasks in the library. Lucius continued tidying up the shelves, but his mind was already racing with thoughts of their impending journey and the secrets they were about to uncover in the city.
As the night wore on, they occasionally exchanged knowing glances, both excited about the adventure that awaited them beyond the library's walls. Each page Theo turned seemed to carry the weight of anticipation, as if the very books were eager to be part of their journey.
Theo eventually closed his book, unable to concentrate any longer, and he and Lucius shared a quiet nod of agreement. It was time to leave the library for the night, but their paths would soon converge again.
The next morning, the sun had barely begun to paint the sky with its gentle hues when Theo made his way to Lucius' apartment. He found Lucius already waiting by the door, a backpack slung over his shoulder.
"You're right on time," Lucius remarked with a smile. "Let's get going."
In the early hours, the academy's grounds were relatively quiet, with only a few students scattered about. However, the tranquility would soon give way to a bustling crowd as many students planned to make the most of their free day. Entertainment options within the academy, such as music performances, theater productions, magic duels, and more, awaited them.
Lucius, on the other hand, had little interest in most of these activities. He and Theo steadily made their way toward the academy's gate, catching the attention of a few vigilant mage guards stationed there.
"Why are you two up so early?" inquired one of the guards.
Lucius responded with a friendly smile, "Some duties require our early attention. Here," he said, handing over the sealed letter.
The guard accepted the letter, broke the seal, and quickly perused its contents. It didn't take him long to finish reading, and he nodded in acknowledgment.
"Very well. You may proceed. I'll inform the other guards that you'll be returning by day's end. Should any questions arise, simply present this letter."
Lucius reclaimed the letter with a nod of gratitude and motioned for Theo to follow as they left the magical academy behind. They headed down a cobblestone road that led to the city situated at the base of the mountain where the school was nestled.
As Lucius and Theo made their way towards the city, they engaged in a hushed conversation, their voices filled with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty.
"So, we have the whole day to find that mage, and... kill him?" Theo asked, seeking confirmation of their plan.
Lucius nodded, his expression serious. "Correct. After we obtain his soul, we must eliminate him and dispose of the body discreetly. The nearby forest seems like the best option, as the creatures there will make quick work of his remains."
The thought of acquiring another soul and potentially gaining a new skill filled Lucius with a unique blend of anxiety and excitement. After enduring numerous hardships, it seemed like things were finally falling into place, though he was acutely aware that many challenges still lay ahead, particularly regarding his ambition to become a mage.
But then, Theo's respectful tone and choice of words caught Lucius off guard. "But, Lord Devil," Theo began tentatively, "What happened to your original body? Shouldn't you be, like, godly powerful?"
Lucius sighed, realizing that it was time to share some of his hidden truths with Theo. "Theo, you're right to question that. The truth is, my original body was destroyed in a battle long ago. While I possess the knowledge and powers of a devil, my current form is merely a vessel. To regain my full strength and abilities, I need to acquire souls and continuously grow in power. That's why we're on this journey."
Theo listened intently, his eyes wide with newfound understanding. "So, becoming a mage is just one step towards your ultimate goal?"
Lucius nodded, a determined glint in his eyes. "Exactly. And together, we'll overcome any obstacles in our path to achieve it."
That was a lie. Lucius' original body was only trapped, but why should he tell anyone that? If someone gets Theo, and finds a way to get answers from him, then they would not know the truth. Lucius' mind was always ten steps ahead.