After a brief exchange of looks, Asher sat down opposite Samael. The silence that lingered between them carried the weight of six long years — years of training, blood, and unspoken pride. The air was filled with faint warmth from the nearby hearth, and the golden glow of the candles cast soft shadows upon the stone walls of the Valcren estate.
"So, how was the training?" Samael finally asked, his tone calm but his eyes sharp, reading every subtle change in Asher's expression.
"It was good, kind of a good experience," Asher replied, a small smile curving his lips — the kind of smile that carried both satisfaction and exhaustion. His posture was poised yet relaxed, a reflection of both discipline and power honed over years.
"Where is their father?" Asher asked, glancing toward the children playing nearby. Their laughter echoed softly through the hall.
"Well, he is on a mission," Samael answered, lifting Aliza into his arms with a warmth that contrasted his otherwise commanding demeanor.
"Well, who did big brother marry?" Asher asked, leaning back in his chair, the corner of his mouth twitching in curiosity.
"He married into the household of the Queen," Samael replied, pride and calculation mingling in his tone.
Asher's smile turned into a knowing smirk. "That's interesting. It seems the plan is moving quite well."
"Yes, it's almost complete — only a few steps remain," Samael said, a wicked glimmer flashing in his eyes as a faint smirk appeared on his face.
"What is the plan, Grandpa?" asked Aliza with a soft, innocent voice, her big eyes filled with curiosity.
Samael's expression softened immediately. He gently brushed a strand of her hair aside and said with a grandfather's warmth, "Making your uncle Leon a king."
The conversation continued long into the evening. Father and son spoke of politics within the royal palace, the delicate balance between noble houses, and the subtle wars of influence fought in silence. They discussed how nobles were aligning themselves — how some sought the Queen's favor, while others secretly turned toward the Valcren banner. The world outside was on the edge of a storm, and the Valcren family stood poised to rule when it broke.
"Soon," Samael said, his voice low, almost prophetic, "the Valcren name will not just echo through this kingdom — it will dominate the world."
---
Afterward, Asher left the children with Samael and retreated to his chambers to rest. The halls were quiet, the polished marble floors reflecting the faint light of chandeliers.
"Welcome back, young master," Hans greeted, standing outside Samael's chamber beside Emilia. His posture was impeccable, and his voice carried the calm assurance of a man who had served the Valcren for decades.
"As elegant as ever, Hans," Asher said, a hint of humor in his tone as he adjusted his cloak.
"Welcome back, young master!" Emilia said cheerfully, her face bright with genuine happiness.
"Oh, Emilia, you look cheerful. Why don't you prepare a bath for me… and something to cut these hairs?" Asher said, brushing a hand through his slightly long, unruly locks.
"As you command, my lord," she replied quickly, curtsying before leaving to prepare.
"Hans, anything that I should know?" Asher asked as they began walking together through the corridor. The soft rhythm of their steps echoed faintly.
"Yes, young lord. The children you left with me have become soldiers. They played important roles in recent matters and even brought profit to the house," Hans said, his tone subtly proud.
"That's good to hear. And anything about Sera?" Asher asked, his eyes momentarily distant as he paused near the large window overlooking the Valcren gardens — the same place where he had once met Seraphina. The moonlight poured over the flowerbeds, painting the garden in silver hues.
Hans handed him a bundle of sealed letters. "Yes, young lord. These are the letters Miss Seraphina sent during your absence."
Each envelope was perfectly preserved — not a crease, not a stain, as if they had just been sent that morning. Asher took them with great care, his fingers lingering on the delicate paper before sitting on his bed to read.
One by one, he opened them. The faint scent of lavender rose from each letter, her scent, familiar and comforting. Her words were gentle and full of longing — she wrote of her days, her thoughts, her prayers for his safety. Every line carried emotion, a tenderness that softened Asher's normally sharp expression.
By the time he reached the last letter, a calm smile played across his lips. The final words spoke of her upcoming admission to the Royal Academy, and her wish to see him again there.
Asher's eyes glimmered with resolve. "Hans, how will I be able to get into the Royal Academy?" he asked in a low but determined tone.
"You can get through special admission, young lord. If you demonstrate something unique — something impossible for your age — they will accept you, even now, though the deadline has passed," Hans replied confidently.
"Send a letter under the Valcren name to the Dean and tell them I wish to enroll. I'll take their test," Asher said, slipping Seraphina's letters into his ring for safekeeping.
"As you command, young master."
"The bath is ready, young master," Emilia called softly from the doorway.
"Cut my hair, Hans, as you always do," Asher said.
The warm scent of sandalwood filled the chamber as he bathed. When he emerged, his silver-grey hair was neatly trimmed, his robe freshly pressed — his presence once again regal and commanding.
---
That night, the Valcren family gathered for dinner. The great hall was filled with the light of countless chandeliers, and the long table was adorned with silver cutlery and steaming dishes.
"Welcome home, Asher!" Lilith exclaimed, rushing forward to hug him tightly. Her embrace was full of affection and relief.
"Welcome home, son. I hope your time away was fruitful," Alina said, smiling softly.
"Thanks, sister. Thanks, Mother. I did have some interesting times there," Asher replied, smiling faintly as he took his seat.
"I don't see my brothers," he asked, glancing toward the empty chairs.
"They both went on a mission," Samael answered calmly.
A soft, teasing voice came from behind. "Welcome home, brother-in-law."
"Thanks," Asher said with an awkward smile.
"Uncle, eat with me!" Aliza said, tugging on his hand.
"No, he's going to eat with me!" Ilhan insisted, grabbing the other hand.
Asher chuckled warmly. "Hey, hey, don't fight. I'll eat with both of you, alright?" He lifted them gently, placing one on each knee, earning giggles from both.
"I heard you wish to join the Academy," Samael said, slicing his steak with precision.
"Yes, Father," Asher replied, helping Aliza with her food.
"Why? There's little left there for you to learn," Samael asked, though a knowing smile already formed.
Before Asher could answer, Lilith smirked. "He's going there for Seraphina."
"Let the dragon go — he misses his doe," Alina added playfully.
"Mother, you too?" Asher said, exasperated.
Samael laughed lightly. "I'll permit it then. Who am I to keep the dragon from his doe? The letter's already sent. Your exam is next week. Prepare to leave."
"So you're leaving again, Uncle?" the twins asked together, eyes wide and sad.
"Yes, but only temporarily. I'll be back during holidays," Asher said, ruffling their hair.
---
The days passed swiftly. When the time for departure arrived, the courtyard was heavy with emotion.
"You're leaving again," Lilith said softly, her expression full of sorrow.
"Don't go, Uncle!" the twins cried, gripping his hands tightly.
Asher knelt, smiling gently. "Hey, I'll be back soon. Not for years this time."
"Take care, and be safe out there, son," Alina said, her voice tender yet strong.
"Yes, Mother," Asher said respectfully.
Samael stepped forward. "Show them what a dragon can do, son. Let the world remember the name Valcren."
Asher placed a hand over his chest. "I will, Father."
---
Asher and Hans arrived at the teleportation gate, a towering arch inscribed with runes glowing faintly blue. In a single flash of light, the world shifted — and they emerged in the bustling capital.
The first thing Asher saw was a squad of soldiers bearing the Valcren sigil — the twin dragon heads carved into their armor glimmered under the sun.
A tall man in polished silver armor stepped forward and bowed deeply. "Welcome to the capital, young master. I am Aiden, captain of this squad."
"Thank you, Captain Aiden, for your hospitality. Shall we get going?" Asher said, his tone calm yet commanding.
"As you command, young lord," Aiden replied, stepping aside.
As they walked through the capital, crowds gathered along the streets. Whispers spread like wildfire.
"It's him — the young lord of Valcren!"
"So majestic..."
"He's even more handsome than the rumors say."
Then came the black carriage — a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Its frame was lined with silver and gold, encrusted with jewels, and etched with ancient Valcren runes. The horses that drew it were massive, their dark coats shining like obsidian under the sun, their breath thick with energy.
The Valcren banners waved proudly atop the carriage, the dragon insignia gleaming like fire. Asher entered, and the streets fell silent. The aura emanating from that carriage alone commanded reverence — the very presence of a Valcren made even the boldest bow their heads.
At the Royal Academy gates, a guard approached nervously. "T-The carriage is not allowed inside the campus, my lord... Lord Asher must proceed on foot from here."
Captain Aiden spoke sharply, "This is Lord Asher von Valcren, heir to the House of Valcren, here to take the test."
The guard's voice trembled. "Y-Yes, sir. Of course."
Asher nodded calmly. "It's alright. I'll walk from here. Let's go, Hans."
When Asher stepped out, the crowd fell completely silent. Students gathered, eyes wide.
"He's here... the blood of Valcren."
"The bloodline of the Dragon..."
His black robe shimmered, edges traced in silver threads. His hair, silver-black and freshly cut, caught the sunlight like steel. His eyes, cold yet alive, scanned the path ahead. His mere presence was enough to silence a hundred hearts — and when he began to walk, the crowd instinctively bowed, the sound of his steps echoing through the gate like a royal decree.
Every head lowered. None dared meet his gaze.
The heir of Valcren had returned — and the world felt it.