The Redwyne estate's library was a labyrinth of towering bookshelves, each crammed with ancient tomes and scrolls. It was here, amidst the scent of parchment and ink, that Aizen found solace from the chaos of Stephanie's increasingly demanding schedule.
"Master, your reading habits are becoming obsessive. You've spent 12.7 hours in this library over the past three days," Vermis remarked, its telepathic voice tinged with concern.
"And yet, I still haven't found anything useful," Aizen replied, flipping through a dusty grimoire. "Do you know how hard it is to find information on magical artifacts in a world where everyone hoards knowledge like dragons hoard gold?"
"Perhaps if you focused less on complaining and more on research—"
"Noted. Now shut up and help me find something on ancient familiars."
Aizen's search was interrupted by the sound of footsteps. He glanced up to see a boy around his age entering the library. The newcomer had silver-rimmed glasses, neatly combed hair, and an air of quiet confidence. He carried a stack of books so tall it obscured his face.
"Master, that's Lucien Vale—the game's third capture target," Vermis informed.
"Of course he is. Let me guess—he's a genius with a tragic past and a heart of gold?"
"Close. He's a prodigy from a fallen noble family, ostracized for his unorthodox research into forbidden magic."
"Nailed it."
Lucien set his books on a nearby table and began sorting through them with practiced efficiency. Aizen watched from the shadows, curious despite himself.
"Master, this is an opportunity to gather information. Engage him," Vermis urged.
"And say what? 'Hey, I heard you're into forbidden magic. Wanna be friends?'"
"Your social skills are abysmal."
Aizen sighed and stepped into the light. "Need help with those?"
Lucien looked up, his sharp eyes assessing Aizen with a mix of curiosity and caution. "I'm fine, thank you."
"You sure? That stack looks like it's about to topple."
Lucien adjusted his glasses. "I've handled worse."
Aizen shrugged and sat across from him. "Suit yourself. What are you reading?"
"Advanced theories on mana crystallization," Lucien replied, his tone guarded.
"Sounds… complicated."
"It is. Which is why I'd appreciate it if you didn't disturb me."
"Master, he's even more socially awkward than you. Congratulations," Vermis said.
"Thanks, I hate it."
Aizen leaned back in his chair. "You're Lucien Vale, right? The prodigy?"
Lucien's eyes narrowed. "What of it?"
"Just curious. I'm Aizen, by the way. Lady Stephanie's… uh… assistant."
"I've heard of you," Lucien said, his tone softening slightly. "You're the one who keeps up with her antics."
"Someone has to."
Lucien hesitated, then pushed a book toward Aizen. "If you're so interested, you might find this enlightening."
Aizen glanced at the title: The Arcane Principles of Mana Transmutation.
"Thanks," he said, though he had no intention of reading it.
Lucien nodded and returned to his work, his focus unshakable.
Later That Evening
Aizen found Stephanie in the garden, sulking on a bench. Her fencing uniform was streaked with dirt, and her practice sword lay discarded at her feet.
"Rough day?" he asked, sitting beside her.
Stephanie glared at him. "Kael's impossible. No matter what I do, he's always one step ahead."
"He's been training longer than you. It's not fair to compare yourself to him."
"I don't care about fair! I just want to win!"
Aizen sighed. "You're too hard on yourself. You're making progress."
Stephanie's expression softened. "Do you really think so?"
"I do. But if you want to get better, you need to focus on your strengths, not just your weaknesses."
"Like what?"
"Like your magic. You're a natural at it, but you barely use it in training."
Stephanie frowned. "Magic's not allowed in fencing."
"Says who? If you can use it to your advantage, why not?"
Stephanie's eyes lit up. "You're right! I'll show Kael what I'm really made of!"
Aizen smiled faintly. "Just… try not to set anything on fire, okay?"
Stephanie grinned. "No promises."