The Extra's Reincarnation-Chapter 88: Choice (2) | Until We Meet Again.

"Besides, the Inheritors are not to be trifled with. They wield immense power and influence within the kingdom. It would be unwise to refuse their invitation."

I nodded, without a doubt.

She was right, as always. I couldn’t simply ignore the Inheritors. I had to face them head-on, learn what I could, and use that knowledge to protect myself, my mother, and perhaps even this world that I was slowly coming to call my own.

But then Ophelia changed to a more important topic.

"So, tell me, Julian. After witnessing the events of yesterday, the sheer talent and determination of those children... has it changed your perspective at all?"

"What do you mean by that?"

I didn’t understand what her question meant. Was she testing me philosophically or was it a read in between the lines kind of thing?

She leaned forward with her gaze intent.

"Have you reconsidered your stance on attending Aethel?"

She had a smile on her face revealing her kindness, but that smile was more than just a look it was her way of meaning business.

It was as if she was saying she would keep asking over, and over until I attended.

"Whatever you’re thinking of right now, you’re probably right."

Haah… I had a hunch this conversation would happen over and over again, but I knew what she was asking.

Was I still content with the path I had chosen?

I thought about my future. What would I do when I grew older? Where would I go? What kind of life did I want to live?

The truth was, I didn’t have a clear answer.

But one thing was certain: Aethel Academy offered opportunities, connections, a future I couldn’t possibly achieve on my own.

And perhaps, just perhaps, it offered a chance to create a different path, a path where I could use my knowledge and abilities to make a real difference in this world... in a meaningful yet less hard working way.

And besides, the thought of spending my days with Ezekiel, the heroic, bookish, and somewhat naïve boy, needed a friend like me to keep him out of trouble... well, that wasn’t an entirely unappealing prospect.

Still, if it’s the time to truly decide, then my mind is set to the future.

"I have, Lady Ophelia… I’ve made up my mind. I want to go to Aethel."

A slow smile spread across Ophelia’s face.

"I thought you might say that... maybe after the one-thousandth attempt of me asking, but you know the earlier, the better,"

I couldn’t help but rolled my eyes at her. It was almost as childish, as it was foolish.

"Very funny..."

"But in all seriousness, Julian, there are a few... requirements you’ll need to fulfill before I can officially enroll you at Aethel."

"Requirements?"

"Indeed,"

"Aethel Academy is not simply a school for magic. It is a training ground for future leaders, for those who will shape the destiny of this kingdom."

"And to be considered for such a role, one must possess not only talent but also experience, achievements... and a title."

A title? I don’t think I’ve heard of that one before... I’m sure Aethel Academy is open to accept commoners for as long as they have talent.

Perhaps if I followed what Ophelia was saying, it might be easier to get accepted, I assume?

But I was just a commoner, the son of a servant. How could I possibly acquire a title?

I’m sure that becoming a proper fine noble didn’t really suit my own tastes as a person, since I came from the dirt ground in my previous life. It felt like a stain on my soul more than anything.

"I know what you’re thinking, Julian. And I assure you, it’s not as impossible as it seems."

But of course, Ophelia seemed to read my thoughts.

"You see, Julian, I have a proposition for you. A proposition that will not only grant you the title you need but also provide you with the experience and achievements necessary to secure your place at Aethel."

"What kind of proposition?"

"I’m going to make you my personal assistant,"

Ophelia declared, standing up with her eyes shining with mischief.

"Huh?"

Wait... her personal assistant? Me?

I didn’t realize the meaning behind her words, but maybe she was joking.

"Now, now, don’t underestimate yourself, Julian, I’ve seen what you’re capable of. You have a sharp mind, quick wit, and a surprisingly strong sense of responsibility. And let’s not forget your... unique talents."

She’s actually not kidding at all...

"But you won’t be just any assistant! Of course, when you’re older, and I deem you ready, you’ll also serve as my personal bodyguard while handling the duties of an assistant."

As she rambled on and on about my duties, I didn’t know that I walked right into her trap to become the very thing I swore I wouldn’t be.

A pond... and exactly just like that, I became a pond for the Florence family.

"Oh, and I forgot to mention this, but you might even discover a hidden talent for diplomacy or economics. The possibilities are endless. And, of course, there’s the added benefit of networking with the future elite of the kingdom. Princes, princesses, dukes, and duchesses... all potential allies, or rivals, depending on your ambitions."

Yes... she kept going on and on...

As soon as she finished explaining all the ins and outs of my new ’job’, I was regretting ever uttering the thought of attending Aethel Academy.

Not only just that but it’s because ME, a five-year-old boy, would have to work twice more the workload than an office worker it was almost absurd.

"Hold on a moment, Lady Ophelia," I interjected, raising a hand.

"Before I agree to this... I’d like to know what my mother thinks about all this."

Ophelia’s lips curled into a smirk that could rival a Cheshire cat’s.

"Ah, yes, your mother. Well, Julian, funny you should mention that..."

She paused, letting the suspense hang in the air like a poorly timed fart.

"I already spoke with her, of course."

My jaw dropped.

"You what?"

"Indeed, and she said she’s perfectly fine with it. As long as you’re happy, she’s happy."

Ophelia confirmed with a devious smirk on her face.

Ah... I’m defeated.

Again.

"Shall we sign the contract?"

I glared at her, mentally cursing her and her entire bloodline. But, I had no choice.

I was trapped. Defeated by a woman who probably used her magic to conjure up the most ridiculously complicated contract in the history of mankind.

"Fine," I grumbled, snatching the quill from her outstretched hand.

"But if I end up developing carpal tunnel syndrome before I turn ten, I’m blaming you."

WHOOOSH!

Just like that, I became Ophelia’s one and only all around ’slave’ or what she calls me Mr. Errand Boy...

...

...

...

And not long after, it had finally hit night time...

The grand living room of the Florence mansion was bathed in the chilly winds of the half moon.

My mother, Ophelia, Ezekiel, Nivel, and I were gathered, brought together by fate and circumstance.

"As you all know, Ezekiel and I will be departing tomorrow."

I had known this was coming, but hearing it confirmed still stung. I glanced at Ezekiel, who sat beside Nivel, his gaze fixed on the floor.

He looked even more subdued than usual, his normally bright eyes clouded with a melancholic haze.

"We’ve received... a sudden summon. It seems there’s... a situation that requires our immediate attention."

He avoided specifics, but I could tell from Ophelia’s knowing glance that she was already privy to at least some of the details. It made the situation even more unsettling.

What could be so important, so urgent, that it required them to leave in the dead of night?

Nivel must have sensed my confusion, because he added, "It’s a... delicate matter, Julian. One that involves... certain obligations and responsibilities that Ezekiel and I must fulfill."

"Suffice it to say, it’s a matter of great importance, one that requires our specific expertise."

Ophelia nodded, confirming his words.

"Indeed. Though I’m sure you’ll both explain everything in due time."

Nivel offered a grateful smile.

"Of course, Lady Ophelia."

He turned to me, his expression softening. "Julian," he said, "I know this is sudden, but please understand. This is something we have to do."

This content is taken from fгeewebnovёl.com.

I looked at Ezekiel, my heart heavy.

"I understand, Mr. Nivel," Then, turning to Ezekiel, who hasn’t spoken to me since then I needed to tell him what I was feeling right now.

"Haah... what will you do without me, Zeke?"

I gave him a smirk to try to lighten his mood, and he finally looked up at me with a smile on his face.

"You know, I was starting to feel sad that I won’t be seeing you, but I think that’s a good thing now."

"...!"

"Eh... well, I mean, for someone like me you should be blessed to be in my presence,"

"Oh whatever,"

Ezekiel side eyed me chuckling, but then he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small wooden pendant.

It was intricately carved with a crest that depicted a swirling wind pattern and a simple "V" - for Ventus, his family name.

"Here, so you won’t forget me, you stupid loser."

He pressed the pendant into my hand, and I felt a warmth spread through me, a warmth that had nothing to do with magic. I grinned, giving him a playful shove.

"Like I could ever forget you, you annoying bookworm. Who else would I use as a practice dummy for my awesome magic skills?"

Ezekiel snorted. "Please, you’ll be the one getting pounded when I unlock my true potential. Just you wait, Julian. I’ll be the one showing you my back!"

"Oh, I’m shaking in my boots," I said, dramatically clutching my chest.

"But seriously, Zeke, take care of yourself. And don’t let Nivel turn you into a mini-him. The world needs less brooding and more awesome."

Ezekiel laughed, and the sound filled the room with a much-needed lightness. "Don’t worry about me, Julian. I’ll be fine. And hey, maybe I’ll even write you a letter sometime. You know, if I can tear myself away from all the exciting adventures I’m sure we’ll be having."

"Adventures, huh?" I raised an eyebrow.

"More like sitting in dusty libraries and deciphering ancient scrolls. Sounds thrilling."

"Oh, you have no idea, but hey, if you’re ever feeling bored with your glamorous life as Lady Ophelia’s assistant, you can always come visit. We’ll make sure to leave a light on for you."

"Tch... bastard..." I muttered under my breath, as if a nerve had been pulled.

"Yeah, yeah, just don’t forget to send me a postcard from whatever boring place you end up in."

"Boo hoo..."

BUMP!

With a final fist bump, we exchanged in a shared grin, they picked up their bags and headed towards the door.

As I watched them go, I clutched the pendant tightly, feeling like I lost a part of myself.

But it didn’t matter, this wasn’t goodbye, anyway.

It was just a...

"See you later,"