Chapter 187: Ch 185 - Grown Up
Ten years had passed since the clash in the Underworld, and the Clover Kingdom now thrived under the warmth of peace.
The streets of the capital buzzed with excitement as the Magic Knight Exams approached, a grand event that drew young aspirants and spectators from all corners of the kingdom.
Elysia, now a spirited twelve-year-old, stood atop a wall overlooking the grand arena. Her heart raced with anticipation, eager to witness the spectacle that awaited her.
The venue was adorned with colorful banners, and the air hummed with the chatter of hopeful participants and their supporters.
"I wish I could participate!" Elysia exclaimed, her fists clenched in determination.
Training with her mother, Mereoleona, had ignited a fierce desire in her to prove herself. Yet, at her age, she was still too young to enter the competition.
Just then, her eyes caught sight of a figure draped in a black coat making his way through the crowd. His striking half-grey and half-red hair framed a face marked by determination, and a powerful aura surrounded him.
Elysia felt a strange mix of curiosity and excitement at the sight of him.
"Who is that?" She wondered aloud, feeling an inexplicable pull towards the mysterious man.
Before she could ponder further, the young man stepped forward, the crowd's energy shifting as he approached the entrance of the arena. Elysia watched closely, captivated by the way he moved, exuding confidence with every step.
As the matches began, Elysia became enthralled by the display of magic and skill. Knights showcased their hard work, and with each clash of spells, she felt her own excitement build.
Yet, despite her focus on the arena, her thoughts repeatedly drifted back to the enigmatic figure.
Suddenly, as if fate had drawn them together, the young man approached her. His warm smile seemed to light up the area around them.
"Hey there," He said, his voice gentle. "Are you here to watch the exams?"
Elysia nodded, trying to contain her excitement. "Yes! I can't wait to see the knights fight. I want to be one of them someday!"
"That's a great dream," He replied, a hint of pride shining in his eyes. "You have the spirit of a knight already."
"Do you fight too?" She asked, curious about this stranger who seemed so powerful.
He chuckled softly. "Not today. I'm just here to observe."
"Just to watch?" Elysia tilted her head in confusion. "That's kind of boring, isn't it?"
"Not at all," He replied with a smile. "Sometimes, watching is just as important as fighting. You can learn a lot by observing others."
As they spoke, Elysia felt an unexpected comfort in his presence. There was something about him that sparked a sense of familiarity, though she couldn't quite place it.
"Do you have a name?" She asked, wanting to know more about the intriguing stranger.
"Asta," Alex said with a smile, extending his hand. "And you?"
"Elysia!" She beamed, shaking his hand. "I'm training to be a Magic Knight!"
"I can see that fire in you, Elysia," Alex encouraged. "Keep that passion alive. It will take you far."
Elysia felt a thrill at his words, her heart swelling with hope. "Thank you! I'll keep working hard. I promise."
As they continued to talk, the matches progressed, and Elysia became engrossed in the spectacle. The arena erupted into cheers as powerful magic spells filled the air, each knight showcasing their unique abilities.
"Do you come to the kingdom often?" Elysia asked, eager to learn more about Alex.
"This is my first time in a while," Alex replied, his gaze momentarily distant. "I just wanted to see how things were after everything that happened."
Elysia nodded, intrigued. "I'm glad you're here! Maybe we can watch the matches together."
"Sure," He replied, a soft smile gracing his lips. "Let's enjoy the day."
As the sun arched across the sky, Elysia felt a mix of joy and longing. Though she couldn't fully grasp the connection she felt with Alex, there was something undeniably special about their encounter.
The day unfolded with laughter and excitement, and for Elysia, the Magic Knight Exams became more than just a spectacle; they became cherished moments spent with someone who saw her potential.
With each match that passed, Elysia's dreams grew brighter, fueled by the encouraging words of her new friend.
As they watched the battles unfold, Elysia was determined to become a Magic Knight, a protector of the kingdom, just as Alex had once done in his own way.
For now, she would savor this moment, unaware of the deeper truth behind the man before her and the bond they would one day share.
The Magic Knight Exams had concluded, and the sun began its descent, casting a warm golden hue over the Clover Capital. Elysia and Alex stepped away from the arena, the cheers and applause of the crowd fading into the distance. Elysia's heart still raced with excitement, not just from the matches but from the time spent with Alex.
"Where should we go next?" Elysia asked, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. The capital was alive with color and sound, the festive atmosphere invigorating her spirit.
Alex chuckled, his gaze sweeping over the bustling streets filled with vendors and festival booths. "How about we explore some of the food stalls? I've heard this place has some amazing delicacies."
"Food? Yes!" Elysia exclaimed, her stomach growling at the thought. She couldn't help but feel an instant connection with Alex, despite knowing he was a stranger. It was as if they were old friends reunited after a long time apart.
As they strolled through the crowded streets, Elysia pointed out different stalls, her excitement contagious. "Look! They have roasted sweet potatoes! And over there, fresh pastries!"
"Let's start with those pastries," Alex suggested, smiling at her enthusiasm. They approached a vendor selling a variety of colorful treats, the sweet aroma wafting through the air.
Elysia's eyes widened as she scanned the options. "I want the fruit tart!" she declared, pointing to a particularly vibrant tart topped with fresh berries.
"Two fruit tarts, please!" Alex called to the vendor, placing the order with a bright smile. Elysia watched in awe as the vendor prepared their treats, her heart fluttering at how natural it felt to be with him.
With their pastries in hand, they moved to a nearby bench, sitting side by side. Elysia took a bite, her face lighting up with delight. "This is amazing! You have to try it!" She offered a piece to Alex, her excitement bubbling over.
Alex took a bite from her offered pastry, and a grin spread across his face. "You're right; it's delicious!"
Elysia couldn't help but laugh. "I think I could eat these every day!"
--- ✦ ✦ ✦ ---
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