Chapter 13 (Part 1)
Five years have passed, leaving their mark on the ever-evolving cityscape. Towering buildings now dominate the skyline, reaching higher than ever before. The streets bustle with an increased flow of carriages while pedestrians fill the sidewalks. Amidst the lively roads, a small establishment stands, its large windows offering a glimpse into its inner world.
Inside the establishment, Gregory reclines on a comfortable sofa, reading a newspaper and flipping through its pages. The passage of time has brought subtle changes to his appearance. His once-light beard has grown thicker yet remains neatly groomed. Gregory wears a white shirt with a black cravat tie hanging down his chest, complemented by black trousers and polished leather shoes. A gold-orange waistcoat with white buttons peeks beneath his black jacket, contrasting with its white collar.
As Gregory yawns, his fist flies to his mouth, momentarily interrupting his reading. Flipping to the next page, he continues pursuing the news. Suddenly, the sound of a curtain sliding on its rod captures his attention. He glances at the front-left of the room. Setting the newspaper aside, he rises and smiles.
Oliver steps out of the fitting room with his eyes shut. Sunlight pours through the large windows, bathing his copper hair in a radiant, golden, fiery hue. As years have gone by, his natural hair colour has returned. However, as he opens his eyes, they still gleam like liquid gold. Oliver then smiles as he looks at Gregory.
Gregory's eyes lower, scanning Oliver's outfit. Gregory's smile widens as he takes in the forest-green cravat around Oliver's neck. Continuing his gaze from top to bottom, Gregory notices Oliver wearing a green waistcoat beneath a black jacket with white buttons and a collar. His eyes travel downward, noting Oliver's black trousers matching his shoes.
Gregory approached Oliver. "Wow. Now, we're matching!" Gregory said with a smile.
"Yes, we are," Oliver laughed as his eyes scanned Gregory's attire. "Hmm... honestly, you don't quite look like a wizard without your hood," he commented, giggling.
"Oh, right. How could I forget that I'm a wizard now?" Gregory rolled his eyes as he grinned.
"Well, you are now!" Oliver smirked. "And since you have powers like me, it's time to put them to the test."
"How?" Gregory laughed nervously.
"Follow me," Oliver smiled, raising his chin as he walked forward.
The two men stroll along a gravel pathway that winds through the park. Surrounding them are plants and trees adorned with lush green leaves. However, some foliage has lost its vibrant hues, with leaves transitioning into shades of orange and brown, falling from the branches. Even the once-lush grass has taken on a golden-yellow hue.
Oliver and Gregory maintain their leisurely walk, glancing at the surrounding shrubs. As they venture deeper into the park, they reach a wooden bridge. Oliver and Gregory march towards the bridge's railing, peering at the tranquil river below.
"Do this," Oliver said.
Oliver extends his arm and points his palm at the calm waters. Oliver's simple gesture transforms the tranquil river into surging waves. As he clenches his hand into a tight fist, the calm waves rise, forming impressive crests before crashing down with a resounding splash.
Gregory's eyes widen as he watches the display. Inspired, he extends his sceptre, pointing it towards the river. Taking a deep breath, he closes his eyes, focusing his thoughts and energy.
"Fluctus..." Gregory chanted, closing his eyes.
The gentle flow of the river gradually transforms. The calm waters transform into undulating waves along the riverbank. Waves form and ripple along the shore, surging into the land.
Oliver jumps in excitement. He squeals and leaps toward Gregory. Wrapping his arm around Gregory's body, he buries his face in Gregory's chest.
"I'm so proud!" Oliver exclaimed as he hugged Gregory. Letting go of his embrace, Oliver presented another challenge. "Now, do this!"
Oliver summons a fireball in his hand. Then, he sends it soaring to the sky. Suddenly, the ball of flames detonates like a firework, dispersing into a shower of vibrant particles.
"Ignis!" Gregory chanted.
Pointing his sceptre towards the heavens, Gregory chants the incantation while the orb on his sceptre glows. A fireball materializes and shoots into the atmosphere. Then, it bursts into a radiant fireworks display, captivating the onlookers.
"And that's just with a small amount of mana," Gregory remarked.
"What?" Oliver asked, tilting his head.
"If I drink this mana potion, it will enhance the power of my spells," Gregory explained, reaching into the inner pocket of his jacket and retrieving a bottle containing the concoction.
Before Gregory can raise the potion to his lips, Oliver swiftly snatches it from his hands. Laughing, Oliver sprints away, opening the bottle and indulging in its contents. Gregory hastens, quickly following his lover as they laugh.
"Hey!" Gregory laughed.
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