Chapter 19: A Noble’s Proposition

Elias stood in the training yard, staring at the cracked stone column. His gauntlet hummed with power, the new modifications working perfectly. The shockwave impact system had functioned without a hitch, and for the first time since arriving in this world, he felt like he had a real weapon.

Lira still hadn't stopped staring. "I cannot believe that actually worked."

Elias smirked, flexing his fingers. "Did you ever doubt me?"

Lira scoffed. "Yes. Every second of every day."

Elias chuckled but kept his gaze on the damage he had just caused. The pulsing wave of kinetic force had sent cracks spreading through solid stone. This wasn't just defense anymore. He finally had an attack.

But before he could say anything else, a new voice cut through the air.

"Well, well. Seems like your little invention is more than just a toy after all."

Elias turned, and sure enough—Arven Arden stood at the edge of the yard, hands clasped behind his back. He wasn't alone. Two other nobles stood behind him, their expressions neutral, their gazes fixed directly on Elias.

Lira groaned. "Oh great. Him again."

Elias exhaled. "I was wondering when you'd show up."

Arven smirked, stepping forward at an easy pace. "You have a habit of drawing attention, Graham. Though I suppose after that spectacle with Seraphina, it was inevitable."

Elias raised an eyebrow. "What do you want?"

Arven stopped a few paces away, studying Elias's gauntlet. "I saw the duel. More importantly, I saw how you fought. You're not just a fluke, are you?"

Elias crossed his arms. "Glad we're past that part."

Arven's smirk didn't fade. "You understand, of course, that your actions have consequences. You've proven your worth—but in doing so, you've disrupted the balance of this Academy."

Elias tilted his head. "And that's a bad thing?"

Arven's silver eyes gleamed. "Not necessarily. But it does mean that every noble house is now paying attention to you. Some see you as a threat. Others, an opportunity."

Elias exhaled. "And which one are you?"

Arven smiled. "An investor."

That caught Elias off guard. He glanced at Lira, who looked just as confused. "You want to… invest?"

Arven stepped closer. "I don't waste time on meaningless fights, Elias. You've proven you can fight mages and win. That means you are a valuable piece on the board. And I—" he gestured to himself, "—am offering you protection. Resources. Funding. Everything you need to develop your creations without interference."

Elias narrowed his eyes. "And in return?"

Arven smirked. "You align with House Arden."

Lira bristled immediately. "So you want to own him."

Arven didn't even look at her. "No. I want to support him. There's a difference." He turned back to Elias. "The Academy is not kind to outsiders. And with what you've done? You've made powerful enemies already. If you don't have noble backing, your path will be… difficult."

Elias folded his arms. "And if I say no?"

Arven tilted his head. "Then I won't stop you. But you will be standing alone."

Silence stretched between them.

Elias wasn't stupid. He knew Arven wasn't offering this out of kindness. This was a power move—a way to secure an alliance before another house could try to claim him.

Lira muttered, "Elias. This is a trap."

Elias exhaled. "I know."

He turned to Arven. "Let's say I accept. What exactly do I get out of this?"

Arven smiled. "The workshop access you've been sneaking into? It will be yours officially. Rare materials? You will have them delivered to your door. The Academy's best combat tutors? They will be available on your command."

Elias's fingers twitched slightly. He wasn't expecting that much.

Arven clasped his hands behind his back. "Think about it, Graham. A world that has always favored mages—now, you have the power to change it. But you cannot do it alone."

Elias studied him carefully. This was it. The moment where he chose his path.

Either he joined House Arden and gained resources but lost independence—or he rejected the offer and kept his freedom, but at the risk of making even more enemies.

Lira's voice was quiet. "Elias. Whatever you do… make sure it's your choice."

Elias exhaled, rolling his shoulders. Then, he looked Arven directly in the eye.

And made his decision.