NXT_MARVEL

Our MC was an extreme introvert in his past life — a bookworm who avoided people like the plague, focused only on his studies, and had zero interest in anime, games, or romance. The only time he ever touched anime was when his one and only friend forced him to watch a single episode of some fantasy academy drama — and he hated every second of it.
So when he wakes up in an unfamiliar, lavish room and finds himself in the body of Lucien von Zephyr— a rich, handsome academy student — things seem… pretty okay. That is, until memory floods in and he realizes who  Lucien is: the pervy, obsessive side character doomed to die in Episode 7 for going too far with the main heroine!

Survive the Death Flag! (Or Die a Simp)

The classroom buzzed with excitement and nervous energy. The rearrangement test was just around the corner, and today the teacher finally gave them some news that made Lucien's heart soar.

"Tomorrow will be a preparatory leave for all students. Use this time wisely — the rearrangement test will not be easy."

Lucien sighed in relief. "Finally, a day off. I can actually catch up on my studying…"

[Or you could sleep, y'know. Before your brain explodes.]

"No time for that. I still haven't even touched Advanced Magic Theory!" Lucien whispered back.

[You've got a death wish, don't you?]

The bell rang, and Lucien quickly gathered his things, heading straight for his private training session with Professor Aldric. As he reached the secluded training grounds, Aldric was already waiting for him, arms crossed and eyes sharp as ever.

"Excuses waste time. Summon Ignis."

Lucien sighed and held out his hand. "Come forth — Ignis."

In a swirl of embers and heat, Ignis appeared, flames dancing around his small, mischievous form. The fire spirit stretched its tiny arms and twirled in the air with a delighted crackle.

Aldric's face softened just a little, his eyes reflecting the flickering light of Ignis's flames. Despite his usual stern demeanor, there was an unmistakable glimmer of wonder.

Lucien noticed it immediately. "Professor… do you like spirits?"

For the first time, Aldric hesitated. His voice, when he spoke, was quieter. "When I was younger, I… felt them. I could sense their presence, but I could never see them. Many believed I was imagining things — that I was chasing dreams. But then you… summoned one right in front of me."

Lucien blinked in surprise. He'd never seen Aldric look this vulnerable before.

"Ignis's existence proved that spirits are real," Aldric continued, his eyes fixed on the little flame. "For that, I am grateful. But also cautious. Spirits are powerful… and dangerous. I do not know their nature. Their intent."

[He's giving off serious 'overprotective parent' vibes.]

Lucien ignored the system's comment. "Ignis has never been anything but loyal," he said firmly. "He fights with me. For me."

Aldric studied Lucien's face for a long moment before nodding. "Even so… if you wish to use Ignis in the combat exam, you'll have to prove your control."

"I'll administer one final test. If you pass, you'll be freed from my training and can use Ignis freely. If you fail…" Aldric's voice grew colder. "You will not be allowed to rely on him in the forest."

Lucien swallowed hard, but his eyes didn't waver. "I accept."

Aldric's lips curled into a faint, approving smirk. "Good. Then prepare yourself… tomorrow, you'll face me."

— To Be Continued.

The Final Test