Chapter 14: Shifting Perspective
It had been two years since Argus first awakened his powers, and in that time, much had changed. The routines of studying and training had continued with their usual rigor, but now there was more depth to them. His powers, once unrefined and difficult to control, had become a part of his daily life. Every morning was spent honing his abilities, followed by afternoons filled with lessons in politics, strategy, music, and other studies. His world had expanded, each lesson pushing him further, preparing him for the future that lay ahead. Even the quiet moments with Lily, the playful escapes into the garden, had grown to hold a new sense of meaning.
Music had become a welcome part of his routine. Initially skeptical, Argus had grown to enjoy the way it helped him find balance and focus. His relationship with Rhea had deepened too, becoming something of quiet understanding. The past two years had been a time of growth—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
Now, as Argus stood in front of the large mirror in his room, he could see the changes in himself. He wasn't much taller, but his frame had grown stronger, more defined. His features had sharpened slightly, giving him a more refined look. His black hair, which had once been unruly, now fell neatly into place, and his dark eyes, sharp and focused, reflected the confidence he had gained. The boy who once struggled to control his powers had become someone else—someone more in tune with who he was.
He adjusted his shirt, the fabric falling neatly across his shoulders as he studied his reflection. The void, his constant companion, stirred inside him, calm but ever-present. He could feel its power, the dark energy waiting patiently for him to call upon it. Over the years, he had learned not to force it but to let it flow when needed. The lessons he had learned about balance had become invaluable.
His thoughts, however, were interrupted by the knock at his door. He turned to see Celeste, the head maid, entering the room with her usual composed grace.
"You look presentable, young master," Celeste said, her eyes briefly scanning him with the usual cool precision.
"I always do," Argus replied confidently, adjusting his collar with a faint smirk.
Celeste gave a slight tilt of her head, a hint of amusement in her gaze. "Of course, young master. Though today will be a bit more demanding than your usual charms."
Argus chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I'm sure I'll manage just fine."
"I have no doubt," she replied smoothly, her tone measured but carrying the faintest trace of approval. "Your mother is expecting you. Best not keep her waiting."
With a nod, Argus cast one last glance at his reflection before following her out. Today was important. His public announcement of awakening had been planned for months now, orchestrated carefully by his mother. He had known this day would come, but now that it was here, a strange tension hung in the air.
The walk through the halls of the mansion felt different today. As he moved toward the grand hall, where the event would take place, Argus couldn't help but notice how the staff seemed more... alert. There was a quiet excitement among them, whispers of pride for their young master. They had always adored him, but now they had a reason to celebrate. The formal acknowledgment of his awakening was a significant event.
As Argus reached his mother's chambers, he was greeted by Evangeline's familiar presence. She sat by the window, her dark eyes gleaming with pride as she looked at him. There was a subtle warmth in her gaze, though it was layered with the same possessiveness that always lingered between them.
"Mother," he greeted, stepping into the room.
"You look handsome, Argus," she said, standing up to adjust his collar slightly, her touch light but firm. "Today is important."
"I know," Argus replied, his voice steady, the same confidence he had shown with Celeste evident once more.
Evangeline smiled, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "This announcement will set things in motion. People will be watching you from now on."
He felt her words as more than just a statement. There was an underlying current of expectation, something he had become accustomed to. For as long as he could remember, his mother had guided his life, every step carefully planned. This announcement was no different. Yet, despite the weight of it all, Argus felt ready.
"I understand," he said quietly.
Evangeline studied him for a moment longer, her hand resting on his shoulder. "Good. You've grown stronger, and today is just the beginning."
With that, she turned away, glancing toward the window. "The guests will begin arriving soon. Go prepare."
As Argus left his mother's chambers, he made his way toward the courtyard, where preparations for the gathering were in full swing. The estate had been transformed, with banners draped across the entryway and tables laid out in elegant arrangements. Influential figures from across the land were expected to attend. Lords, political leaders, and even some of the higher-ups of The Alliance had been invited. Rumors had already spread about the prodigy who had awakened early, and now, those rumors were about to become reality.
Argus stepped out onto a balcony overlooking the courtyard, watching as the preparations continued below. He could see the staff moving quickly, making last-minute adjustments to the decor, while the first of the guests began to trickle in through the grand gates.
For a moment, he let himself breathe. This was the first time in years that his life would intersect with the wider world, outside the safety and seclusion of the estate. He had studied much about the world—its history, its politics—but a small part of him wondered what it was truly like beyond these walls.
The gathering was fast approaching, and with it, the next chapter of Argus's life. He wasn't nervous—he had been prepared for this—but the curiosity lingered. Soon, he would find out.