Witnessing Alfred's apprehension and hesitance, Declan decided to start the conversation. "Boy, what is your name?"

"Alfred," a timid voice responded.

"Very well, Alfred," Declan began, his tone measured and eloquent. "From this moment onward, you shall be known as Dylan Haco, the son of Declan Haco, and the heir to the Haco estate. However, this title is purely nominal, as you will never actually inherit the Haco estate. I require your cooperation in playing this role temporarily."

"Alright," Alfred reluctantly agreed, realizing he had no other option. Alfred was betting on the fact that Declan required his cooperation. Even if he were discovered to be Vesperan, there remained a possibility that he might be spared, given the intricate nature of Haco family politics.

"Very well, it's reassuring to see your intelligence," Declan remarked. "We will need to pay a visit to someone soon, so I require you to consume this potion."

Alfred hesitated, then inquired, "What is it?"

"Moving forward, if you ever question any of my orders, you will face severe consequences. I will allow it this time due to your initiation. Consume the potion; it's meant to transform you to resemble my late son," Declan conveyed with a measured tone.

Alfred contemplated asking about what had happened to Declan's son but decided against it, dreading the potential reprimand. The potion he was handed had a light yellow hue with faint traces of milky pink, contained within a transparent crystal vial shaped like a teardrop.

The youngster couldn't detect any distinct scents, but there was a peculiar thickness in the air surrounding the potion. He downed the liquid in one swift gulp, giving it little thought. However, in the next moment, he was consumed by regret.

Alfred gripped his head in agony, experiencing excruciating pain surging through his entire body. The repercussions of his impulsive action were unfolding in a manner beyond his wildest imagination.

The youth's vision blurred as he gazed into a nearby mirror. The pain coursing through him was unbearable as if his very bones were shifting beneath his skin. His face contorted in torment as he bore witness to the transformation unfolding before his eyes.

Alfred's nose elongated and assumed a slender, more aristocratic shape, while his jawline became refined and sculpted. His once stern countenance took on a more youthful appearance, with subtle lines and creases smoothing away from his eyes and mouth. His hair lightened and thickened, shifting from its original color to match the rich silver hue of Dylan Haco's.

Every muscle in his body seemed to rebel against him, contorting and rearranging themselves to match the body of the High Elder's son. It was a painful and bewildering experience, and Alfred could do nothing but writhe on the floor in agony.

Tears streamed down Alfred's face as he endured the excruciating transformation, and he couldn't help but wonder if he would ever be himself again. The physical and emotional pain left him incapacitated, lost in a sea of uncertainty and turmoil.

"Don’t worry about not having Dylan’s memories; he was pampered to a fault. The only relationship the useless child had was with me and his mother," Declan began.

Alfred could still feel the phantom pain of his recent transformation. Hearing Declan’s words brought him back to reality. Could he just pretend to be a noble’s son? Just like that?

After helping the youth up, Declan led him through a labyrinthine series of hallways and elevators, their footsteps echoing in the dimly lit corridors of the Haco estate.

The path they traversed was a twisting maze of ornate tapestries, ancient portraits, and flickering sconces that cast eerie shadows on the walls. The opulence of the estate was evident in every detail, from the richly woven carpets underfoot to the intricate moldings that adorned the ceilings.

As they ascended in the ornate brass elevator, the air grew cooler, and the scent of aged wood and polished brass permeated the atmosphere. The subtle hum of magic resonated through the walls, a testament to the Haco family's deep connection to the arcane arts.

Declan's footsteps echoed confidently, his presence commanding respect even within the walls of his own home.

Finally, they arrived at a set of imposing double doors adorned with intricate carvings and inlaid with silvery patterns that shimmered in the soft glow of the magical sconces. Declan pushed the doors open with ease, revealing the grandeur that lay beyond—the family testing hall, a place steeped in tradition and mystery.

In the center of the hall, a towering and enigmatic Alter commanded attention, serving as both a focal point for magical testing and a symbol of the Haco family's arcane heritage.

This Alter was a truly mesmerizing structure, constructed from countless shimmering cyan crystals that emitted an otherworldly glow. It seemed to pulse with an inner light, its soft, ethereal hum resonating with the magic that flowed through the Haco lineage for generations.

Positioned behind the altar was Angelo Haco, a distinguished member of the family who held the esteemed role of family instructor. Angelo had dedicated his life to the pursuit of magical knowledge and was well-versed in both the theory and practical application of magic.

His position was highly prestigious, and his equal pay reflected the significant responsibility he bore, as the future leaders of the Haco household would be shaped and guided under his tutelage.

The hall boasted a series of ornate portraits adorning its walls, each depicting individuals with striking silver hair. These portraits celebrated illustrious Haco family members, both male and female, who had achieved remarkable heights in their magical pursuits.

The dignified and stern expressions captured in the paintings hinted at their mastery of arcane arts, while their silver locks symbolized the family's enduring connection to the mystical realms.

Throughout the room, cyan accents graced various elements, from the luminescent veins running through the floor to the delicate patterns etched into the walls. These accents contributed to the serene and enchanting ambiance of the chamber, enhancing its overall aura of mysticism.

As Alfred stepped into the Haco family testing hall, he couldn't help but be overwhelmed by the seamless fusion of contemporary magical design and age-old heritage that filled the space. Here was a chamber where destinies were shaped, and the enduring legacy of the Haco family found its continuity.

Angelo, noticing their arrival, extended his greetings. “Greetings, High Elder. I have managed to delay the others as you requested.”

Declan, fully aware of the reference to the family council, responded, “That's perfectly fine. I've come across a rare discovery that I believe could enhance Dylan's constitution. Angelo, your presence is crucial as we await the new results.”

The tutor was taken aback, vividly recalling Dylan's less-than-satisfactory results just two days prior. What treasure could the High Elder have possibly discovered that would bring about significant changes in such a short period?

Meanwhile, Alfred remained completely oblivious to the subtle undercurrents in their conversation, his anxiety causing him to sweat profusely. He feared that this test might somehow expose his Vesperan nature.

The pair slowly approached the altar and stood before Angelo. Declan wore a warm, affable smile, a stark contrast to the man who had previously condemned his son for being inadequate. Alfred, on the other hand, displayed fear and anxiety on his face.

Fortunately for Alfred, had the real Dylan been in his position, his reaction would have been identical, adding to the deception.

"You know the drill, young Master," Angelo began, beckoning the youth over. "Place your hand on this crystal, please."

Alfred timidly put his hand on the crystal. As the intense light filled the room and the crystal ball shattered, the reactions of the three individuals present were as diverse as the fragments that scattered across the floor.

"Hahaha," Declan Haco couldn't contain his elation, a triumphant laugh followed by a smile that lit up his face. His heart swelled with hope and ambition as he saw, in this moment, the realization of his family's aspirations.

“How… this… is impossible,” Angelo Haco, on the other hand, was a picture of astonishment. His initial skepticism had transformed into disbelief and awe. His wise eyes widened with the recognition of something extraordinary unfolding before him.

Alfred, caught in the maelstrom of emotions and confusion, remained rooted to the spot. His mind raced with questions, and uncertainty clouded his thoughts. 'Does this mean they know? Should I run?' He had no inkling of what this extraordinary display meant or how it would change his life forever.

“Angelo! Hahaha, record the test results immediately; this is a celebration for our entire house,” the High Elder spoke with a beaming smile, unable to hold in his chuckle.

Declan Haco couldn’t care less about the fact Alfred wasn’t his real kin. If he raised him right and ensured his loyalty, his family would become the biggest fish in the Shadow Peaks pond.

“Of course, Sir. It’s just that… this is unprecedented, so I don’t know the official grade to give him. This crystal was calibrated to ensure it could test magical talent up to Celestial Mage. Its shattering could only mean one thing,” the tutor stopped talking, as he didn’t dare finish his sentence.

“You mean my son, Dylan, could potentially have Elemental Sorcerer grade Magical Talent?” Declan questioned the timid tutor with a smile. “And that this means, given enough time, Dylan will become an Elemental Sorcerer without a doubt?”

“Perhaps, High Elder, but we need to confirm with the rest of the council,” Angelo responded respectfully.

*AN: Cheeky Information dump in the following, I made it easy to read so please bear with me (-w-)*

In Shadow Peaks Territory, mages' abilities were categorized into several levels, each representing their mastery of magic:

1. Spirit Novice - The initial stage of a mage's journey, where they begin to learn the basics of Mana manipulation.

2. Mystic Apprentice - As apprentices, they gain better control over their Mana, allowing them to cast spells and perform body augmentation.

3. Arcane Adept - Mages at this level possess knowledge of various spells and the theoretical understanding needed to cast potent, destructive spells capable of wreaking havoc.

4. Celestial Mage - Attaining this stage is a rare achievement. Celestial mages can cast multiple spells simultaneously, often specializing in one particular Element.

5. Elemental Sorcerer/Sorceress - While some Celestial Mage family clans claim to have reached this level, it remains unconfirmed. Elemental sorcerers are believed to possess mastery over all the Elements.

*End of information dump*

These levels represented the progression of magical prowess in the territory, with each stage demanding greater skill and knowledge.

“Haha, that’s all semantics and pleasantries. Carry on then, test his Magical Affinity next,” the gleeful elder ordered.

Alfred placed his hand on the second ball, which would determine if he had any affinity for any elements. This test was crucial to identify his specialization at later levels of mastery, ensuring he didn't waste time on elements for which he had no affinity.

To the High Elder’s disappointment, there was no fanfare this time. The crystal remained unresponsive, indicating that Alfred had no specific affinity for any element.

“That’s very strange. Usually, when someone has a high magical talent, they show an affinity for 2, sometimes even 3 elements,” the tutor mused.

“It should be fine. I’m pretty certain my son will succeed with whichever element he chooses to study,” Declan chimed in.

Alfred couldn't help but be confused. He could already perform fire and illusion spells with ease. Why didn't the results reflect this? Moreover, these spells were Lianfu's abilities. If he was so inadequate, how did he achieve this? There was more to this, and Alfred was determined to figure it out in time.

"High Elder, you can take the youth to rest. I will notify the council of this matter to avoid troubling you," Angelo spoke respectfully. He was the only one present during Dylan's first test and had an inkling that there was a conspiracy at play.

The tutor knew better than to challenge the High Elder; a few who did lead fortunate lives. Any out-of-the-ordinary matters were dealt with through the council, but ultimately, Declan Haco had the final say. It was his privilege, awarded to the strongest in the family.

Deep in thought, Angelo Haco stumbled out of the testing hall. He knew significant changes were on the horizon for the Haco estate, and he wanted to position himself strategically. Regardless of the methods the High Elder had employed to obtain these extraordinary results, what counted was his success. Angelo felt the need to publicly demonstrate his loyalty to maximize the benefits he could gain.