Rejuvenated and well-rested, Leonardo opened his eyes to a room full of unfamiliar faces. A small group of men and women stood in ornate crimson uniforms, their eyes fixed on him.

  “Good morning, Lord Welt,” they said in perfect unison, a little too cheerfully. “We’ve been instructed to help you prepare for today’s event.”

  Before he could even respond, they lifted him from the bed like a king and carried him out of the room.

  Strangely, it wasn’t uncomfortable. Their arms moved like a walking mattress.

  They soon entered a massive room with a steaming pool at its centre.

  A huge-ass bath? Wait… don’t tell me—

  As they began to undress him, Leonardo panicked and threw up his hands. “Wait! I’m not comfortable with this! Just get me a change of clothes—I’ll bathe myself.”

  They nodded politely and left, leaving behind soaps, towels, and other products.

  Leonardo scrubbed and washed at record speed, terrified they might barge back in if he took too long. After drying off and moisturizing—thank God they have moisturizer—he peeked out.

  The attendants were waiting with his outfit. They dressed him with impossible speed, barely giving him time to be embarrassed.

  Soon after, he was ushered down a grand hallway, down sweeping stairs, and into a courtyard where a majestic carriage awaited. Pulling it was a massive wolf-like creature—easily large enough to take on a small battalion.

  Leonardo climbed in nervously, glancing at his attire. A tailored grey suit, sharp but comfortable, with fine golden threading lining the sleeves. He wore a flowing cape on his back.

  Am I getting knighted or something? I won’t lie… this is kind of cold.

  As the carriage rattled forward, he stared out the window, passing the aftermath of the demon attack. Citizens worked hard to rebuild—some using tools, others weaving spells to reconstruct what was lost. It was humbling, even beautiful, to watch.

  Eventually, the carriage stopped in front of a massive cathedral-like building. The doors opened, and Leonardo was led inside.

  Rows upon rows of people stood and clapped from tiered seating. A crimson carpet stretched out toward a large stage, where Beflus waited in a ridiculous golden robe covered in purple stars.

  Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

  Leonardo scanned the audience as he walked, eyes wide.

  Holy fucking shit. I’m in baddie heaven.

  He soon reached the stage, standing before Beflus, who cleared his throat and spoke:

  “For one thousand years, our lands have suffered the curse of the demon king. We have endured betrayal, lived in fear, and remained confined. But today, that era ends. The sword has been pulled!”

  The crowd erupted in applause.

  “Leonardo Welt, a young man from the other world, has been chosen. Bow your head, Leonardo, as I present the sword of kings: Caliburn.”

  Leonardo knelt. Beflus unsheathed the glowing blade, tapping it gently on each of the boy’s shoulders before handing it over.

  “With this, I name you Lord Leonardo Welt, Knight of the New Age, under the Grand Wizards’ household.”

  Leonardo stood and holstered the sword.

  “Now, turn and acknowledge those who support you!”

  Leonardo faced the crowd. A powerful, unfamiliar feeling surged in his chest. These people—their futures, their safety—it was all in his hands now.

  “I promise… I will meet your expectations. Thank you!”

  He bowed as gracefully as he could. The applause roared louder, giving him a fleeting sense of peace.

  To celebrate the occasion, an afterparty was held at another venue. After socializing with dozens of guests, Leonardo—exhausted from keeping up appearances—slipped away to a quiet room. He threw off his suit jacket, loosened his tie, and sighed.

  Moments later, Evangeline walked in. Her golden hair was tied in an elegant bun, framing her face with curled strands. A glimmering, one-sleeved red dress hugged her figure, accentuated by gold jewelry.

  “What’s the man of the hour doing hiding away?” she teased, taking a seat nearby.

  Leonardo groaned, “Were you following me?”

  “I barely get to talk to you these days,” she said. “You still owe me stories about the other world.”

  That word—other world—left a bitter taste. It reminded him just how far from home he really was.

  “You’ve been gatekeeping from me,” he replied flatly. “I don’t know if I should.”

  “Gatekeeping?” she repeated blankly.

  “Slang from my word. It mea—”

  “Finally, I find you two alone,” a new voice interrupted.

  Leonardo’s mood sank. Evangeline immediately sat upright.

  Beflus stepped in, settling between them. “I’m glad you’re getting along,” he said with a smile. “But isn’t it improper for a young man and lady to be alone together?”

  Evangeline turned away, clearly uncomfortable. Leonardo forced a chuckle. “I… just needed a break from the crowd.”

  “No need to lie. You have my blessing—marry her, if you’d like.”

  Evangeline flailed her hands, horrified. “Father!”

  Leonardo sat in stunned silence.

  What the fuck is wrong with this guy?

  “It’s fine,” Beflus continued casually. “You can marry soon and live happily. Once my son is trained, he’ll accompany you on your journey.”

  That snapped something in Leonardo.

  “You’re pissing me off,” he snapped, standing. “Stop being so wishy-washy. Your son is a fetus. The prophecy says eldest child. Not son, you fuckwit.”

  Beflus smiled calmly. “That’s fine. But I’ll withdraw my support. No finances. No aid. You’ll crawl back, realizing how useless she is.”

  Leonardo scoffed. “Yeah? You’re just a dickhead. I’m done.”

  He turned to Evangeline, nodding for her to follow. She did—despite the chill crawling up her back from her father’s glare.

  Outside, Leonardo’s face turned serious.

  “Eva… I’ll be honest. I’m scared shitless about what’s coming. But hearing your father say that… all I want is to prove him wrong.”

  “…Yeah,” she whispered, staring down at her feet.

  They both walked on, knowing exactly where they were heading.

  And thus, the legend of Leonardo began.