The Duke of the North stayed for several days.
And during those days
He watched.
Quietly.
Carefully.
Oliver noticed it.
He observes like a hunter…
Samuel whispered, "He's testing us."
Lucas nodded. "We should show our strength."
Ryan gulped. "That's scary…"
One morning, the duke finally spoke.
"Show me your abilities."
Samuel grinned. "Gladly."
Theo crossed his arms but didn't stop them.
"…Be careful."
Oliver felt the familiar overprotective tone.
Still watching closely
Samuel stepped forward first.
Wind gathered strongly around him.
He released it.
Leaves scattered, hitting the training target cleanly.
The duke nodded. "Good force."
Samuel looked proud.
Lucas followed.
He raised his hand.
The ground lifted into a solid shield.
Stable. Controlled.
The duke nodded again. "Good control."
Lucas glanced at Oliver.
"Your turn."
Oliver lifted his hand slowly.
Magic gathered softly.
Golden threads formed a floating orb.
Then
He split it into two.
Gasps.
Ryan clapped. "You did two!"
Elena smiled. "Beautiful"
The duke's eyes sharpened slightly.
"…Advanced control."
Oliver blinked.
Praise. achieved.
Suddenly
Cold air spread.
The duke released a tiny portion of his aura.
Not dangerous.
Just pressure.
Samuel stiffened.
Lucas narrowed his eyes.
Ryan stepped back.
Oliver felt it too.
He's testing our reactions.
Samuel pushed wind forward.
Lucas reinforced the ground.
Oliver focused
Aura Harmony activated.
The pressure softened around them.
The duke withdrew instantly.
"Interesting."
Theo looked proud.
Charles smiled warmly.
Samuel spoke quickly, "See? We're strong."
Lucas added, "We protect Oliver."
Samuel nodded. "Future husband duty."
Lucas "Future children's father."
The duke blinked once.
Theo sighed deeply.
"Not again."
Oliver covered his face.
They never stop
The duke actually chuckled quietly.
"Then grow stronger."
Samuel grinned. "We will."
Lucas nodded. "Yes."
The duke looked at Oliver one last time.
"You'll lead them well."
Oliver blinked.
Lead?
The system panel flickered.
New Role Detected: Center of Group
Leadership Potential: Rising
Oliver smiled softly.
The Duke of the North
Had just confirmed it.
And the young heirs
Were growing into something bigger.