"The Fated Rival of the Moon"

A Change Noticed

The Kaelthorne estate was vast, a testament to their influence as one of the empire's strongest noble families. But within its halls, whispers had begun to spread.

"The young master… he's changed."

"He's training endlessly, and he even defeated Lady Lyra in a duel!"

"Could it be… his talent was never lost?"

The rumors grew louder, reaching even the highest members of the family.

---

Inside the Kaelthorne Council Hall

The Family Head, Lord Vael Kaelthorne, sat at the head of a long obsidian table. His presence was suffocating—a man of absolute power, wielding both Aura Level 10 and Mana Cycle 9.

Seated beside him was Lady Seraphina Kaelthorne, Azrael's stepmother, and mother of his half-siblings. Her piercing emerald eyes reflected both concern and calculation.

Across from them sat Lyra, still fuming from her defeat, along with her older brothers.

"I assume you've all heard by now," Lord Vael said, his voice sharp as a blade. "Azrael defeated Lyra in a duel."

Seraphina's eyes narrowed. "It was a fluke."

Lyra clenched her fists. "He used a surprise attack. I wasn't being serious."

"And yet, you lost," Vael replied, his gaze cold. "That alone proves that the boy has potential."

Seraphina's fingers tapped against the table. She had been certain her curse had sealed Azrael's abilities. But now… something had changed.

Vael exhaled, leaning back. "This is a good thing."

Seraphina tensed. "You mean—"

"The engagement with Elaris Velmira will proceed as planned," Vael declared. "There's no longer a reason to delay."

---

The Engagement Moves Forward

The Velmira Royal Family had been watching Azrael closely. He was once considered a worthless pawn, but now, with his talent seemingly returning, the engagement was no longer an embarrassment.

A week later, the engagement between Azrael Kaelthorne and Elaris Velmira was officially announced.

Elaris, the future Empress, barely reacted to the news. To her, Azrael was just another noble she would one day surpass.

Azrael, meanwhile, didn't care.

The Kaelthorne Family Head was satisfied. As long as Azrael could be useful, there was no need to suppress him.

But Seraphina Kaelthorne watched Azrael carefully, her mind spinning with schemes.

Something was wrong.

The boy was not supposed to improve.

And if he was truly regaining his talent… then she would have to deal with him before it was too late.