The grand ballroom of House Valeford shimmered with gold and crystal. Nobles from across four nations gathered beneath towering chandeliers, their finest silks trailing behind them as they mingled, whispered, and watched.
Today was the fifth birthday of Caelan Valeford, heir of Duke Alric Valeford — and already, rumors whispered that the boy was not just brilliant, but touched by power itself.
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The Arrival
Caelan entered the ballroom wearing a deep navy coat lined with silver thread, the family crest—a roaring silver lion—embroidered at his chest. His black hair was neatly styled, light brown eyes glowing faintly from the mana within.
He walked with calm dignity, his expression relaxed but composed.
The room fell into a hush.
> "He's five? He moves like a trained knight."
"Look at his eyes… they're sharper than most grown mages."
"A perfect mix of his parents. That boy will be dangerous."
At his side, Lilia skipped along happily in a pale pink dress, proudly holding her brother's hand. "Tada! My big brother is handsome, right?!"
Caelan smiled softly and gave her a pat on the head.
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The Challenge
After gifts and greetings, a noble boy stepped forward. Around seven, with short blond hair and a confident smirk, he bowed.
"I am Leon Belmont, son of Knight-General Belmont. May I request a friendly duel, Lord Caelan?"
Gasps rippled through the crowd.
Caelan looked up at his father, who gave him a nod.
> Perfect time to give them a taste.
"I accept."
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Training Arena – Behind the Ballroom
The crowd gathered around the private arena. The duel would be with training swords, and only light spells allowed.
Leon charged with strong, clean strikes. A knight-in-training. But Caelan danced around them, steps light, eyes calm.
> Let's show them fire first.
"Ignis Flare."
Flames surged along his sword. With a clean twist and upward slash, he knocked Leon's blade flying—and stopped an inch from the boy's neck.
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Silence.
Then applause.
Thunderous.
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[System Notification]
> Public Use of Magic Skill: Ignis Flare
First Display Rank Evaluation: Aesthetic + Precision + Control = S
Titles Earned:
Child Prodigy
Noble Flame
Minor Reputation Increase in Nearby Territories
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Caelan stepped back and offered Leon a hand. The older boy hesitated… then took it.
"You're strong," Leon admitted.
Caelan nodded once. "Thank you for the duel."
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Evening Feast
Nobles buzzed with discussion as they toasted to House Valeford. A few parents whispered to each other, already imagining alliances.
Duke Alric looked down at his son with quiet pride.
"He's more than I ever expected," he murmured to his wife.
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That night, as fireworks lit the sky outside the estate, Caelan stood on his balcony again—Lilia asleep beside him.
> They'll remember today… but they've only seen a glimpse.
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