Frozen convenant

The golden rays of the morning sun streamed through the vast windows of Valtoria Mansion, illuminating the grand hallways with a soft, warm glow. Outside, birds chirped harmoniously, and the scent of fresh morning dew filled the air. Within the mansion, the rhythmic knock of Elizabeth, the head maid, echoed against the wooden door.

"Young Master Arthur, good morning," she called gently.

From inside, a muffled groan followed. Arthur stirred in his bed, his eyes still heavy with sleep. He blinked against the light that peeked through his curtains and mumbled, "Morning already?"

Elizabeth chuckled softly. "Yes, young master. Duke Aldric has summoned you. There will be a grand celebration tonight in honor of your recovery. The preparations are already underway."

Arthur stretched, running a hand through his tousled hair. "A party… for me?" he murmured to himself, still not fully accustomed to his new life. Before he could ask more, Elizabeth had already turned away, heading off to oversee the event arrangements.

Arthur sighed, dragging himself out of bed. He washed up quickly, the cool water jolting him fully awake. As he stood before his massive wardrobe, his eyes widened at the sight—rows of finely tailored garments, each seemingly more luxurious than the last.

"So many choices… What do I even wear?" he mused aloud.

After a moment of contemplation, he settled on a royal blue tunic embroidered with silver threads that shimmered like frost under the light. He paired it with dark trousers and a cloak lined with soft fur, completing his look with silver cuffs and a family crest brooch pinned to his chest.

Once dressed, he made his way through the grand hallway, its marble floors reflecting the golden chandeliers above. The mansion was alive with activity—servants bustled about, arranging decorations, carrying trays of exotic delicacies, and setting up tables for the evening's feast.

As Arthur reached the main hall, he spotted his father—Duke Aldric Valtoria. The duke stood tall, his broad frame draped in a white and gold attire that exuded power and nobility. His sharp eyes, the same icy blue as Arthur's, watched his son's approach with quiet scrutiny.

Arthur hesitated for a moment, studying the man who was now his father. So… this is Duke Aldric, the head of the Valtoria family.

He stepped forward and bowed slightly. "Good morning, Father."

Aldric gave a nod of approval. "Arthur, how do you feel? Is your body well?"

Arthur met his gaze and responded confidently, "Yes, I feel much better. Elizabeth told me about the Sword Mage training and the Preliminary Headquarters. I'll do my best."

Aldric's lips curled into a rare, approving smile. "Good. The Valtoria bloodline has long produced exceptional sword mages. Our family has a legacy to uphold. I trust that you will not bring shame to our name."

Arthur absorbed his words carefully, nodding. "I will not disappoint you."

Before Aldric could say more, a blur of golden curls and giggles came rushing towards Arthur.

"Big Brother!"

Arthur barely had time to react before Evelyn, his younger sister, leaped into his arms, hugging him tightly. She had shimmering golden hair and bright, lively blue eyes, filled with innocence and mischief.

Arthur chuckled, lifting her slightly. "Good morning, Evelyn."

She giggled as he kissed her forehead. "You took so long to wake up! The party is today, you know? And I get to wear my prettiest dress!"

Aldric watched them with a softened gaze before speaking, "Arthur, prepare yourself. The four noble families will be arriving shortly."

Arthur blinked. "Noble families?"

Aldric nodded. "They are our allies and rivals alike. You will be introduced to them today. Conduct yourself well."

Arthur took a deep breath. "Understood."

The Arrival of the Nobles

Standing at the entrance of Valtoria Mansion, Arthur awaited the guests alongside Elizabeth, who stood by his side, ever composed. The heavy oak doors swung open, revealing the first arrivals.

"The Ironheart Family." Elizabeth announced.

Leading them was Duke Magnus Ironheart, a towering man with scarred hands and a presence as unshakable as the mountains. He walked with authority, every step exuding strength. Behind him followed his son, Leon Ironheart, a boy around Arthur's age. He had wild red hair and piercing black eyes, his posture oozing confidence—perhaps even arrogance.

As Arthur extended his hand in greeting, Leon merely glanced at it and walked past, ignoring him completely.

Arthur raised an eyebrow. So that's how it is, huh?

Elizabeth cleared her throat and moved to the next introduction.

"The Luminara Family."

A refined-looking man stepped forward—Duke Draven Luminara, renowned as the 'God of Light.' His presence radiated calm authority. Beside him was his daughter, Lady Seraphina Luminara, a girl with flowing silver-blonde hair and golden eyes that gleamed like sunlight.

Arthur greeted the Duke formally before turning to Seraphina. "Lady Seraphina, it's a pleasure to meet you."

Seraphina nodded with a small, polite smile. Arthur, recalling noble etiquette, gently kissed the back of her hand, earning a few whispers from the nearby attendants.

"The Stormbane Family."

Duke Vaelric Stormbane, a man whose very name sent chills through the hearts of warriors, approached. He was a legend, known for taming the fiercest of storms with his mastery of wind magic. His son, Riven Stormbane, had short silver hair and emerald-green eyes, standing with an air of sharp awareness.

Arthur bowed slightly, noting Riven's piercing gaze assessing him. A rival, perhaps?

"The Vortigen Family."

Duke Darius Vortigen, a man whose presence was akin to an unshakable fortress, entered. His two children followed—Callista Vortigen, a graceful girl with chestnut hair and emerald eyes, a master of plant magic, and Gareth Vortigen, a boy with auburn locks and a quiet, calculating stare, wielding the rare gift of flower magic.

Arthur greeted them both, noting their distinct auras.

Finally, Elizabeth spoke again. "And last, the Valtoria Family."

Arthur straightened his posture. My family. Ice and water magic… but what about me?

As the introductions ended, the party commenced with Duke Aldric raising his glass. "To my son's health and future. Let us celebrate!"

The room erupted in cheers, music filled the air, and the grand feast began.

Arthur, standing at the center of it all, took a deep breath.

This is my new life. I will carve my own path here.