Solomon was at a loss for words. What was unfolding before him was beyond comprehension.
The lie detection circle hadn't turned black. It meant Ashan was telling the truth. But could it really be true? Could this child truly have been the legendary Arcane in a past life? Solomon needed to confirm it one last time.
Ashan noticed the conflicted expression on Solomon's face and smiled faintly.
"Hmm… as I said, it's hard to believe. Do you have a question that could help confirm my claim?"
Solomon straightened, his eyes narrowing with resolve.
"Yes, I do. If you truly are Arcane reborn, tell me his final words—the ones only the Archmage Council knows of."
Closing his eyes, Solomon took a deep breath. Ashan's face lit up with satisfaction.
"'Archmages who have sworn to protect eternal peace, heed my final words. We are all destined to die someday. Once we do, people may forget who we were, but what we've done will remain. Do not seek power or recognition—it is a mirage leading to ruin. Instead, cherish the vision of life and the wisdom of experience. After my passing, let these guide the future generations. That is my only wish.'"
Solomon's breath caught in his throat. He fell to his knees before Ashan.
"It is an honor to recognize you, Lord Arcane. Please accept this humble Archmage's respect."
"There's no need for such formality, Solomon," Ashan said gently.
"I'm no longer the Arcane you know. I am but a child, born to an ordinary family. Please, rise."
"I dare not, sir," Solomon replied, keeping his head bowed.
"How could I refuse to honor the Archmage who brought peace to this world? Even now, we Archmages revere you as our hero."
Ashan's eyes widened in disbelief.
"What? You worship me? That's… unexpected. Whatever your reasons, I'm saying it's unnecessary."
"But why, sir?" Solomon asked earnestly.
"When I lived as Arcane, I truly died. This is not a simple reincarnation. It's more akin to a rebirth, though with retained memories. I am no longer the same being. When water turns to ice, do you still call it water? I ask only that you treat me as Ashan."
Solomon hesitated, then nodded solemnly.
"If that is your wish, I shall honor it." He stood up, his respect undiminished.
"Thank you for understanding," Ashan said with a soft smile. "By the way, I heard you've taken up healing magic. Yet your aura tells me you were once a combat mage. Am I correct?"
Solomon's eyes widened in surprise.
"You are, Ashan. In my youth, I reached the pinnacle as a combat mage. But… an unfortunate event led me to dedicate my life to healing. Still, how did you discern my past so quickly?"
Ashan's expression shifted into a mischievous grin.
"If you're curious, I'll explain. Just know I won't summon another lie detection circle if you doubt me."
"Please, there's no need for that," Solomon said hastily. "I trust your words implicitly."
"Very well. My eyes are different from ordinary humans. They allow me to see a person's aura in vivid detail—their emotions, their innate qualities, even their potential. But that's not all…"
Solomon leaned forward, captivated.
"My eyes can hypnotize anyone who looks into them, see through objects and living beings, diagnose illnesses, and even copy skills and combat styles. They can detect lies and have several other abilities I've yet to fully explore."
Solomon was utterly stunned. His mouth moved, but no sound emerged.
"That's… that's beyond extraordinary," he finally managed to say. "How could such power exist? And how did you obtain it?"
Ashan chuckled.
"It surpasses common sense, I know. But don't ask me to elaborate further. By the way, I assume you already guessed I was responsible for creating that vortex?"
Solomon nodded.
"It was evident. Such control over air currents is only possible with immense mana."
Ashan smirked.
"Not quite. I didn't use mana at all. I created the vortex through sheer willpower—by commanding the elements of nature."
Solomon's jaw dropped, his mind reeling.
"You mean… you can control nature itself? That's… that's godlike!"
"Don't exaggerate," Ashan said with a wave of his hand. "It's a power I achieved as a human. You still have much to learn in this lifetime, Solomon. If you're willing, I can teach you."
Solomon's eyes lit up with hope.
"I would be honored to learn from you. What must I do?"
Ashan smiled warmly.
"Nothing much. Just make me your disciple."
Solomon was at a loss for words. He bowed his head, conflicted by Ashan's request.
"What? How can a mere Archmage make someone as great as you their disciple? That's not proper. Please reconsider."
Ashan sighed, rolling his eyes in exasperation.
"Ha… I told you to knock it off. And what's wrong with that idea?"
"But… you're already a mage far beyond an Archmage. What could you possibly gain from becoming my disciple?"
Ashan's expression shifted, his eyes narrowing with dissatisfaction.
"Your words make it sound as though this world hasn't changed at all since my previous life. Are you implying that everything here has stayed stagnant, without growth or evolution?"
"W-Well," Solomon stammered, "there are new developments, but—"
"Then it's settled," Ashan said firmly. "Don't overthink it. Besides, I have personal reasons as well."
"Personal reasons?" Solomon asked, puzzled.
Ashan glanced downward, his eyes softening with a loving gaze.
"If you tell my parents that you're willing to take me as your disciple, how happy do you think they'll be? How much pride do you think they'll feel?"
Solomon's face softened into a warm smile.
"It seems like you truly love your parents in this life."
"New? No, Solomon. They're not my 'new' parents. They're my parents."
Solomon nodded, a hint of admiration in his gaze.
"I see. Then, Ashan, are you sure about this?"
"I am," Ashan replied without hesitation. "Will you take me as your disciple? And at the same time, allow me to guide you as a mentor?"
Solomon chuckled softly, his heart swelling with respect for the remarkable child before him.
"Of course, I will. I'll treat you as my disciple and acknowledge you as my mentor as well."
Ashan's lips curved into a bright smile.
"Thank you for accepting my request."