Eight years later-
Finally, I am eighteen, ready to venture into the real world. Over the past few years, I explored the Astral realm and gained new abilities. But presently, I am having a duel with Seraphina.
As the duel commenced, I drew upon the mana, conjuring illusions that weaved through the air like ethereal dancers. Seraphina, her astral form, met my illusions with a grace born of experience. Our blades clashed in a symphony of magical clashes, each strike a testament to the skill we had cultivated over the years.
I initiated a complex illusionary sequence, creating duplicates of myself that blurred the line between reality and astral magic. Seraphina, ever the mage, easily dodged and countered, navigating through the illusionary maze with practiced ease. The air crackled with energy as our astral forms fought.
Determined to push the boundaries of my abilities, I conjured phantom blades that circled me, their movements synchronized with my own. The training grounds transformed into a surreal battleground, an Astral arena where illusions and reality intertwined.
Seraphina responded with her display of prowess, creating illusions that mirrored the wonders of the Astral realm. Galaxies spiraled, and constellations appeared in the battleground, a breathtaking spectacle that momentarily stole my focus.
Seizing the opportunity, Seraphina launched a swift counterattack. I was momentarily disoriented, surrounded by the Astral spectacle she had conjured. But, amid confusion, I gathered my focus and activated a unique illusion.
A colossal Astral serpent emerged from the ground, its scales shimmering. It coiled around Seraphina, creating a barrier that left her momentarily entranced. With a burst of speed, I moved in for the decisive strike.
The illusionary serpent dissipated as I struck, and the training grounds returned to normal. Seraphina conceded with a nod, a mix of pride and amusement in her emerald eyes. "Magnus, your illusions have become truly formidable. You've mastered the play of the Astral realm."
Grinning, I couldn't resist a touch of theatrics. "Well, a mage should have a few tricks up his sleeve, shouldn't he?"
I looked around and found Elisa, my maid, waving at me. She shouted, "Young master. The Duke is searching for you."
I replied, "I will be there in five minutes." I waved back to Elisa.
I wiped off the sweat on my face and headed to my father's office. Once I reached there, I heard my mother and father engrossed in a conversation.
My father looked up and greeted me, "Magnus, good timing. We were just discussing an invitation from the royal family. They're hosting a significant event, and it seems they've specifically requested your presence."
I raised an eyebrow in surprise. "The royal family? Why would they want me at their event?"
My mother explained, "It's a celebration of unity and cooperation among the noble families. The Duke believes it's an opportunity to mend strained relations and showcase the solidarity of Eldoria. They want you to represent our family."
I hesitated, skeptical of the royal family's intentions. However, my father added, "Magnus, it's a chance to demonstrate that Astral magic can be a force for good. Perhaps, by attending, you can sway some opinions. But I don't want you to go. It is your choice."
After some thinking, I nodded, "I'll go. But only if it helps improve our standing and eases tensions. I won't be a pawn in their political games."
My parents exchanged a glance, understanding the weight of my decision. Reluctantly, they agreed, and preparations began for my attendance at the royal event.
I went back to my room and mentally prepared myself for this event. For the past few years, I was hidden from the public eye. Some rumors were going on about how I was an 'Astral Mage.' Though the rumors were true.
Seraphina's astral form manifested beside me. "Magnus," she began, "the time has come for you to be in the spotlight."
Nodding, I acknowledged, "I understand, Seraphina. The rumors about me being an Astral Mage have already begun circulating. How should I navigate this delicate situation?"
Seraphina's eyes glinted with wisdom. "Embrace the rumors, but wield them as a shield. Let the mystique surrounding Astral Mages work to your advantage. Attend the event, and use the astral plane to discern the intentions of those around you."
I contemplated her words, realizing the strategic value of embracing the rumors. "What if someone directly confronts me about my abilities?"
With a reassuring smile, Seraphina advised, "Confidence, Magnus."
I had Seraphina by my side.
Suddenly, Seraphina's astral form glowed with anticipation as she spoke, "The Crown of Eldoria, the artifact tied to the prophecy, has been in mystery for centuries. It's essential to uncover any clues or whispers that are hidden within the palace walls."
Intrigued, I questioned, "Are you suggesting we use the astral plane to spy on the royal family? Isn't that risky?"
Seraphina nodded, "Yes, Magnus. The astral plane can be our eyes and ears, where the physical realm may fall short. We must tread carefully, extracting only the information needed without arousing suspicion."
Concerned, I pondered the potential consequences. "What if we get caught? Won't that jeopardize everything?"
Seraphina reassured, "We'll take precautions. Trust in your abilities, Magnus. The pursuit of knowledge sometimes demands bold steps."
With a determined resolve, I agreed to Seraphina's plan.
In my astral form, Seraphina and I soared through the ethereal planes, approaching the majestic royal palace. As we arrived, we decided to split up, each taking a different path to gather information discreetly.
Wandering through the palace halls in my astral form, I stumbled upon an intriguing conversation between Ariana and Regulus. Hidden in the shadows, I listened closely.
Regulus leaned in, his voice a low, conspiratorial whisper that echoed in the Astral realm. "Ariana, the key to unlocking the power of the Crown lies within Count Mapisto and young Magnus. We must manipulate them into unwittingly serving our purpose. With their help, we can harness the crown's true potential."
Ariana responded, "But Regulus, how do we ensure they play their parts without realizing the extent of our plan? The Count may be cunning, but the boy is unpredictable."
Regulus smirked, a sinister glint in his eyes. "Fear not, my enchanting accomplice. We shall exploit their fear and manipulate their fears and desires. Magnus possesses the rare gift of Astral Projection, a power that can be both a boon and a curse. We'll lure him into a false sense of security, and when the time is right, the Crown of Eldoria shall be ours."
Ariana smirked, "You are right. Let me handle Magnus Thaddeus. My father invited him to the grand event. I will play with his heart."
What the hell! Who those she think she is? I angrily thought.
Regulus replied, "Good plan. I will handle Count Mapisto. My brother wants to revive his dead wife. If manipulate his desires, we can use him to enter the Astral realm and get the Crown of Eldoria."
Just as anger threatened to consume me, a soothing presence appeared in the Astral realm. Seraphina's astral form materialized beside me, radiating a calming energy.
"Easy, Magnus," she whispered. "Fury clouds the mind. Precision and strategy will be our allies. Patience, young mage."
I took a deep breath and angrily said, "But Seraphina, they are bad people. It wouldn't hurt anyone if I kill them now."
Seraphina looked serious, "And what will you gain from killing them? You will only have blood on your hands."
"But they plan to manipulate Count Mapisto and exploit my abilities," I explained to Seraphina, frustration lingering in my voice. "We need to kill them now."
Seraphina transformed the plane into a breathtaking scenery and said, "Magnus, revenge is a path surrounded by darkness. There are other ways to thwart their plans."
I clenched my fists. "I can't let them harm others. Count Mapisto, innocent lives are at stake."
Seraphina placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "We can expose their schemes. Manipulate them and turn their plans against them."
I sighed, conflicted but willing to consider alternatives. "How do we proceed then?"
"We gather evidence," she responded, her voice firm. "We play the game, Magnus, but on our terms. We'll use the Astral realm to uncover their secrets and reveal the truth."
I nodded reluctantly, "Okay."
We decided to go to the Thaddeus mansion, and I woke up in my body.
I asked, "Seraphina, how are you so positive?"
Seraphina chuckled, her astral form flickering with playful energy. "Oh, Magnus, centuries of existence have taught me that humor and optimism are potent tools against the shadows."
I couldn't help but smile at her wise yet lighthearted perspective. "You make it sound easy, Seraphina. Dealing with ancient prophecies, evil plots, and the fate of a kingdom—it's quite the burden."
She winked, a mischievous glint in her Astral eyes. "Ah, embrace the absurdity, Magnus, and you'll find the strength to navigate the twists and turns of destiny."
After a small conversation, I went to bed.
Seraphina stood next to the window and sadly thought, "Marcus. I miss you."