Alfred found himself standing alone in Dylan Haco's former room, a space that still resonated with the presence of its previous occupant. This room seamlessly blended modern elegance with a profound connection to the Haco family's magical heritage.

 

The walls bore intricate patterns of cyan, a heartfelt homage to the family's longstanding magical lineage. The furniture, thoughtfully selected, featured a bed draped in opulent, velvet sheets, adorned with an array of plush pillows.

 

"At least he had the chance to enjoy a life of comfort before he passed," the young man murmured, his words a feeble attempt to alleviate his sense of guilt.

 

Against one of the walls, a substantial desk commanded attention, its surface cluttered with an assortment of tomes and scrolls. Ink stains and aged parchments bore witness to Dylan's unwavering commitment to his magical studies.

 

"Poor lad," Alfred couldn't help but blurt out. As a hard worker himself, he understood that sometimes, sheer dedication wasn't sufficient. Sometimes, you had to seize your destiny with your own hands. Sadly, Dylan never had the opportunity to alter his fate; it was snatched away by the young man now standing in his very room.

 

The young boy could gaze upon the intricate tapestry of the inner State of Shadow Peaks through a grand bay window within Dylan's room. The city's heart throbbed with life, where the inner walls harmoniously merged modern magical infrastructure with remnants of age-old, time-honored traditions.

 

Alfred gazed upon the bustling streets below and sighed, pondering, "Is all of this truly believable? Can I genuinely restart my research, perhaps with the aid of magic?"

 

The transmigrated young man had the heart of a researcher. Despite his morally questionable methods for achieving results, Alfred genuinely relished his research and propelling the frontiers of science to new heights.

 

The city's expansive, impeccably maintained roads facilitated the smooth flow of foot traffic, carriages, and even magical beasts. Spirit Novice students, their robes gracefully billowing with each step, walked alongside their peers in their refined attire. The city's residents went about their daily routines with a palpable sense of purpose, harmoniously intertwining the traditions of the past with the innovations of the present.

 

"I don't doubt Declan will send me to school now. If I stay in the estate, I'm only risking being discovered," the new Dylan assessed. He was intrigued by what life in a magic school would be like.

 

A delicate crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, its soft glow adding a touch of mystique to the room. The young man sat beneath it, lost in thought, as he tried to realign himself with his new life.

 

Knock knock!

 

*AN: I will now refer to Alfred as Dylan to avoid repetitiveness and added confusion in  the story.*

 

"Come in," Dylan called out nervously.

 

A young and beautiful maid entered. Her sharp eyes mirrored those of the Haco family, but her hair was as dark as obsidian.

 

"Young master," the maid began, "the High Elder requests an audience with you in his office."

 

Declan Haco's office had been a place of misfortune for Dylan, but he reluctantly decided to go. The young maid escorted him all the way, hanging back as the youngster entered the room.

 

"Boy, your timing is indeed fortunate," the High Elder began. "The entrance exams, for the three most prestigious Magical learning institutes in Shadow Peaks, are tomorrow morning."

 

Dylan, already expecting this, continued to listen in anticipation.

 

"With an added bonus, due to your position as the Young Master of the Haco family, you get to choose whichever one you wish to attend," Declan declared.

 

"Which school is the best?" the youngster interrupted, eager to delve into the study of magic.

 

"There is no one best school; however, each institution specializes in particular disciplines. This means you should choose based on your strengths," the High Elder replied.

 

"And what are my choices?"

 

"Stop interrupting!" Declan reprimanded his new son. "Just listen for now, and you can ask any questions you have at the end."

 

Declan gave a quick summary of the three schools:

 

1. Mystic Lotus Academy: Known for its expertise in runes, enchantments, and mystical disciplines, Mystic Lotus Academy held a prestigious reputation in the Shadowed Peaks Territory. It specialized in teaching profound methods and techniques for enchantments, sigils, and seals.

 

2. Celestial Phoenix Institute: Renowned for its focus on elemental powers, Celestial Phoenix Institute nurtured students to harness the forces of nature and the cosmos, enabling them to become formidable practitioners of elemental magic.

 

3. Dragonheart Sect University: Famous for its martial prowess and combat techniques, this university offered a rigorous curriculum in swordsmanship, martial arts, and battle strategies, producing some of the most skilled warriors in Shadowed Peaks Territory.

 

Dylan had a lot to consider, and he needed to take his time to make the right choice. Mystic Lotus Academy resonated with the researcher inside him and seemed the most suitable option. Celestial Phoenix Institute also intrigued him, as learning to control the elements was a prospect he couldn't easily dismiss.

 

The third option, Dragonheart Sect University, held the promise of the most immediate increase in his strength. However, Dylan wasn't interested, as it might risk revealing his Vesperan nature due to his stronger-than-normal physique.

 

"Go back to your room. I've informed your mother that you're feeling unwell after your test, so she won't see you until you're ready to depart for school. To maintain appearances, be sure to show her plenty of affection before you leave for the entrance exam tomorrow," Declan ordered sternly.

 

"You shouldn't worry too much. From what I've seen, you'll be able to pass any test they throw at you. I would advise you to choose Celestial Phoenix Academy. While all learning institutes teach all the disciplines, you'll become more well-rounded there," the High Elder advised Dylan, his tone shifting from its previous hostility.

 

"Yes, High Elder," the youngster replied with a bow, ready to depart.

 

"Before you go, I need you to sign this magical contract," his new father instructed, handing him a white parchment with glowing cyan writing.

 

Dylan examined it, but he couldn't understand any of the characters. "Don't worry too much; it's a standard loyalty contract. The moment you plan to betray me, your soul will cease to exist. Other than that, you'll still have your freedom," his father reassured.

 

Although skeptical, the junior had no say and reluctantly signed the parchment, writing his new name in an attempt to evade its restrictions.

 

"It doesn't matter what name you write; all that matters is the person who wrote it," Declan began, seemingly privy to his inner thoughts. "As long as it's for the benefit of the Haco family, I promise to offer you my full support. Now, go! Return to your room and get some rest."

 

Feeling dejected, Dylan walked out of the room. As he approached the maid to escort him back, a notification suddenly appeared before his eyes.

 

[Soul Contract Detected… Soul Not From This World… Contract Nullified.]

 

The young maid was unnerved by Dylan's smile, mistaking it for lust. She quickly turned around to escort him back.

 

……

 

The following morning, Dylan was awakened by his maid, Xiaoyun, who had prepared robes in the Haco estate's colors made from fine fibers. Dylan could tell that his robe was enchanted and offered more than just aesthetics.

 

Xiaoyun was of petite stature, and her shy and reserved demeanor made her seem almost fragile. Her attire was always impeccable, as she wore a maid uniform made of the finest quality silk, adorned with intricate patterns that reflected her Young Master's status.

 

"Young master, please allow me to assist you with washing up and getting dressed," the timid girl requested.

 

Dylan felt baffled. The thought of a woman seeing his infant body made his skin crawl in embarrassment. However, he understood that if this was something the old Dylan used to do, denying it would raise suspicion. His personal maid would certainly notice the difference.

 

"Alright, let's go," the youngster replied, his face flushed all the way to his ears. Dylan had no idea how to put on the robes correctly, so her assistance was welcomed.

 

Xiaoyun prepared a bath for her young master and helped him wash up. She was surprised by his reserved nature that day, as he would usually be very talkative. However, she attributed it to nerves, considering it was the day of the entrance ceremony.

 

Dylan, all dressed and tidy, went to his new parents to bid them farewell before his journey. Although the school was in the territory, it was a boarding school, and he wouldn't be back for another three months.

 

The High Elder stood outside the gate with his wife, Rosaline Haco. She had long, flowing auburn hair that shimmered like the finest copper in the sunlight, cascading down her back in loose, wavy curls. Her emerald green eyes were particularly captivating, reflecting a depth of intelligence and passion. They seemed to sparkle with life and curiosity, drawing people in with their vibrant colors.

 

Rosaline's complexion was fair, with a smattering of freckles across her nose and cheeks, giving her a natural, down-to-earth charm. She had high cheekbones, and her lips were full, with a soft shade of rose, often curved in a warm and welcoming smile.

 

"My hardworking son, have you decided on which school you want to attend?" the motherly woman inquired, addressing Dylan.

 

"Yes, mother. I've chosen Celestial Phoenix Institute," the youngster replied with resolute eyes.

 

Dylan couldn't help but be surprised by his mother's beauty. Her reddish hair bore no resemblance to his own, and he couldn't help but wonder about her true origins. Remembering Declan's words from the previous night, Dylan showered his mother with affection, as a young boy departing his household might. 

 

The High Elder was surprised by the youngster's cunning and flawless display of deception. Fortunately, he had made Dylan sign a ruthless soul contract, so he didn't have to worry about the monster Dylan might grow into. All of it would ultimately benefit the Haco estate.

 

After the pleasantries, Dylan bid both his parents farewell and boarded his private carriage. It was slightly embarrassing, as it bore the Haco family colors and insignia branded everywhere, which he could only describe as loud in terms of aesthetics.

 

The carriage was being pulled by one of the Haco family's mounts, a large, horse-like beast with a prominent bony appendage on its forehead. Its fur was cyan, giving it an ethereal air.

 

As the departing junior stepped up into the carriage, he gave his parents one final wave before closing the door. Through the window, he could see Xiaoyun rubbing her watery eyes as the carriage pulled away. It marked the beginning of a new journey, one filled with magic and hardships.