Chapter 4: The Weight of Expectations

The sun filtered through the curtains of Lucien's lavish bedroom, casting soft rays on his pale, flawless skin. As he woke, the familiar ache of anticipation stirred within him. Today was not just another training day; it was the day he would meet with Fulham's senior coach to discuss his progression to the first team. Lucien's performances with the U21 squad had been stellar, and his reputation as a prodigy was growing. But for him, this was merely a stepping stone to the greatness he had envisioned.

After a quick shower and an impeccably prepared breakfast by the household staff, Lucien dressed in his Fulham training kit and made his way downstairs. As always, his personal driver waited outside, ready to escort him to the training ground.

The ride to Fulham was silent, Lucien's mind filled with calculated thoughts of the future. He had a meticulous plan for his career, and today's meeting was another piece in the puzzle. Fulham was a good starting point, but Lucien had far bigger ambitions. Tottenham Hotspur, as much as he had envisioned making his mark there, would come in due time. For now, he had to ensure he made an impact at Fulham first.

The First Team Discussion

When Lucien arrived at the Fulham training ground, the air was thick with the usual sense of camaraderie and determination that came with being part of a professional football academy. He moved through the halls like a king among men, teammates acknowledging him with nods and whispers. Everyone knew he was destined for bigger things.

Lucien was summoned to Coach Davis's office—a sharp, no-nonsense man who had been keeping a close eye on Lucien's development for the past few years. As Lucien entered the office, Davis stood up and motioned for him to sit.

"Lucien," Davis began, his tone firm but respectful, "we both know why you're here. You've been exceptional with the U21s, no doubt about that. Your leadership, your vision, and your skills—well, they're way beyond your years. But moving to the first team isn't just about talent. It's about handling pressure, expectations, and the weight of leading a senior squad. How do you feel about that?"

Lucien leaned forward, his piercing blue eyes locking with Davis's. "I was born to handle pressure," he replied, his voice calm but filled with conviction. "I'm ready for the first team. I've been ready."

Davis nodded, studying Lucien's confident demeanour. "I believe you. But remember, the Premier League is a whole different level. You'll be playing against some of the best in the world. Physicality, pace, tactics—it's all on a different scale."

"I know," Lucien said, his voice unwavering. "I'll show the world that I'm not just another talented kid. I'll dominate."

Davis smiled faintly. "That's what I like to hear. We're looking at integrating you into the squad over the next few months, slowly at first. But there's a match next week against Derby County. It's a pre-season friendly, but a lot of eyes will be on it. I want you to make your debut."

Lucien's heart quickened slightly, but outwardly, he remained composed. "I won't disappoint."

"I'm sure you won't," Davis said, standing up and offering a handshake. "Now go out there and show me why you're the future of this club."

The Debut is Set

Lucien left the office feeling a sense of satisfaction, but not surprise. He had expected this, had been preparing for it since the day he realized his second chance at life. As he changed into his training gear, he could hear murmurs from his teammates about his impending debut.

"Nightshade's making his first-team debut!" someone whispered.

"Finally, it was only a matter of time," another replied.

Lucien ignored the noise. He knew his abilities better than anyone else. He had the talent of three of the greatest footballers to ever live embedded in his very essence, but this wasn't just about replicating their greatness—it was about forging his own legacy. Maradona, Zidane, Ronaldinho—they had each created their own paths to glory. Lucien Nightshade would do the same.

On the pitch, training was intense as always. Coach Harris pushed them hard, knowing that their performance in the upcoming pre-season friendly would set the tone for the season ahead. Lucien's movements were fluid, his control impeccable. Even in training, his passes were precise, his vision unmatched. Every touch of the ball seemed to leave defenders baffled, unsure of how to contain him.

A Chance Encounter

After training, Lucien stayed behind to practice his free kicks. He knew that the finer points of his game needed to be honed constantly, and set pieces were where he could truly make his mark. As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the empty pitch, Lucien set up one last free kick. He took a few steps back, his eyes focused on the top corner of the goal.

Just as he was about to strike the ball, he heard footsteps approaching. Turning around, he saw a tall, broad-shouldered man standing at the edge of the pitch. He recognised him instantly—Carlos Mendoza, one of Fulham's top scouts and a former player for Manchester City.

"Lucien Nightshade," Mendoza said, his deep voice cutting through the silence. "I've heard a lot about you. They say you're going to be the next big thing."

Lucien shrugged, his expression unreadable. "That's what they say."

Mendoza stepped closer, his eyes sharp as he studied Lucien. "I've seen many talents come and go. But you… you're different. You have something special. I wanted to come down here and see it for myself."

Lucien smiled faintly. "And what do you think?"

Mendoza crossed his arms, a slight smirk on his face. "I think you've got the potential to be one of the greatest. But potential doesn't mean anything if you don't deliver when it matters."

Lucien's gaze hardened. "I'll deliver."

Mendoza nodded. "Good. I'm looking forward to seeing you out there against Derby. A lot of people are. Don't disappoint."

With that, Mendoza turned and walked away, leaving Lucien alone on the pitch once more. Lucien's mind raced, not with doubt, but with anticipation. The expectations were mounting, but he wouldn't crumble under their weight. Instead, he would rise above them.

He took a deep breath and struck the free kick, sending the ball soaring into the top corner of the net with perfect precision.

The Calm Before the Storm

That night, as Lucien lay in bed, staring at the ceiling of his grand room, his thoughts drifted once more to the future. He imagined the roar of the crowd, the bright lights of the Premier League, the pressure of leading his country on the world's biggest stage.

But in his mind, there was no doubt. This was what he was made for.

The debut against Derby County was just the beginning. Soon, the world would know the name Lucien Nightshade. Not as the Earl of St. Andrews, not as the heir to a powerful family, but as the greatest footballer of all time.

And no one, not even fate, could stand in his way.

As sleep took him, Lucien dreamt not of the past, but of the future—the trophies, the accolades, the adoration of millions. His time was coming.

And when it arrived, he would be ready.