Mother's study was exactly what I'd expected from a Level 180 Ascendant—bookshelves reaching to the ceiling, ancient tomes bound in leather that probably cost more than small kingdoms, and magical artifacts that hummed with barely contained power. Crystalline formations floated near the windows, casting prismatic light across mahogany furniture that had probably been crafted by master artisans centuries ago.
The perfect setting for a very private education.
"Please, sit," Mother said, gesturing to a pair of comfortable chairs arranged near her desk. But I had other plans.
"Actually," I said, moving closer to her as she selected several thick volumes, "could we use the standing desk? I think better when I can move around, and this is all so new to me."
She smiled with maternal indulgence. "Of course, darling. Whatever helps you learn."
The standing desk put us much closer together, and I made sure to position myself so she'd have to lean across me to reach different books or demonstrate techniques. I could already feel the subtle effect of my enhanced presence—her pupils dilating slightly, her breathing just a touch deeper.
Level 180 Ascendant or not, she's still susceptible to supernatural charm, right?
"Let's start with the basics," she said, opening a tome about magical theory. "Your awakening was unprecedented, but that doesn't mean we can't understand the fundamentals."
As she began explaining magical classification systems, I leaned in closer than necessary, letting my shoulder brush against hers. "Sorry," I said with innocent concern, "I want to make sure I understand everything you're saying. Your knowledge is incredible."
She flushed slightly at the praise. "You're very sweet, Marcus. Now, classification works like this..."
I listened intently, but more importantly, I watched her. Every gesture, every expression, every subtle reaction to my presence. My Divine Sight was picking up details that would have been invisible to normal perception—the way her pulse quickened when I leaned closer, how her magic seemed to respond to mine in ways she probably wasn't even conscious of.
"This is fascinating," I said after she finished explaining the tier system, "but I'm having trouble visualizing how the energy flows work. Could you... could you show me with actual magic?"
She nodded eagerly. "Of course. Here, let me demonstrate basic energy manipulation."
She held out her hand, and violet energy began swirling around her fingers—not just light, but actual condensed magical force that made the air itself shimmer. The power was incredible, layers upon layers of complex energy patterns weaving together in perfect harmony. I could feel the heat radiating from it, see how it bent light around itself.
Level 180 Ascendant magic. This is what true mastery looks like.
"That's amazing," I breathed, reaching out to hover my hand near hers. The energy field around her magic was so dense I could feel it pressing against my skin like warm honey. "I can feel the power from here, but I don't understand how you're directing it."
She maintained the spell effortlessly while explaining. "The energy follows intent channels carved by will and knowledge. Watch how I shift the pattern—"
The violet swirls suddenly changed form, becoming geometric shapes that rotated in impossible ways before dissolving into pure light that she absorbed back into her palm.
"Could you guide my hands?" I asked, looking up at her with complete trust. "I can't feel the magic flow properly on my own. Maybe if you place your hands over mine..."
She considered this for a moment, her Level 180 senses clearly reading my magical signature. "Hmm. Your energy patterns are very unusual. Alright, but be careful—mixing magical energies can be dangerous."
She moved to stand behind me but kept a professional distance. "Here, try to channel your Life Magic first."
I held out my hands and focused, green energy flickering uncertainly around my fingers. It was crude compared to hers—raw power without the refinement of centuries of practice.
"Now feel how I structure mine," she said, her hands hovering just above mine. Violet energy flowed down to interact with my green power, and immediately I could feel the difference. Her magic was like a masterwork symphony compared to my clumsy notes.
She's maintaining perfect control. Level 180 isn't just about power—it's about absolute dominance over magical forces.
"It's... intense," I said honestly. "Your magic feels completely different from mine."
"That's normal," she replied, her voice steady and professional. "You have raw potential, but no training. Like comparing a wild river to an engineered aqueduct."
But she's also definitely not swooning over my charm. I need to try harder.
I deliberately let my magic surge chaotically, the green energy crackling and sparking. "I can't control it properly," I said with genuine frustration. "What if I hurt someone?"
Her hands immediately came down to cover mine, violet energy flowing to contain and direct my wild power. "Breathe," she commanded, her voice taking on the authority of someone used to managing dangerous magical situations. "Don't fight the energy—guide it."
Her magic wrapped around mine like silk restraints, forcing my chaotic energy into stable patterns. The level of control was breathtaking—she was manipulating my power better than I could, even though it was coming from my own magical core.
This is what Ascendant-level mastery looks like. She could probably control my magic energy better than I can.
"Better," she said after stabilizing the flow. "But you're trying too hard. Magic responds to calm confidence, not desperate effort."
I leaned back slightly against her, testing her reaction. She didn't pull away, but I could feel the rigid professionalism in her posture.
She's definitely aware this could be inappropriate, but her teacher instincts are overriding everything else.
"Yes," she said, her voice slightly husky. "Very good. You're a natural at this."
I turned my head slightly, bringing our faces much closer together. "I couldn't do this without you," I said with genuine gratitude that wasn't entirely acting. "You make me feel... safe. Like I can actually control this power."
Emotional intimacy mixed with physical contact. I let her feel needed and protective.
Her hands tightened slightly over mine. "You're not alone in this, Marcus. I'll always be here to help you."
"I know," I said softly, holding her gaze. "You're the most brilliant woman I've ever known. I trust you completely."
The way her pupils dilated at that compliment... she's definitely feeling this.
I deliberately let the magical energy surge a bit chaotically, making her grip my hands tighter to help me control it. "Sorry," I gasped, leaning back into her more heavily. "It's overwhelming sometimes. All this power and I don't know how to handle it." Playing up the vulnerability. Making her feel like she's the only one who can save me from my own abilities.
"Breathe," she said, her voice closer to my ear now. "I've got you. Just focus on my voice and let me guide the energy."
She's completely focused on taking care of me now. Perfect!
I let her steady the magical flow but made sure to keep my body pressed against hers, our hands still intertwined. "Better," I said, turning to look at her again. We were so close now that I could see the flecks of silver in her violet eyes.
"You're doing wonderfully," she said, but her voice had that slightly breathless quality that meant she was very aware of our positioning.
Time to push a little further.
"The theory is starting to make sense," I said, "but there's something else I'm worried about. Something I haven't told anyone."
Her expression immediately shifted to maternal concern. "What is it, darling?"
I hesitated, as if struggling with whether to confide in her. "During my awakening... there were moments where I felt like the power might hurt someone if I lost control. What if I'm dangerous? What if these abilities are too much for me to handle safely?"
"Oh, Marcus," she said, her hands moving to cup my face. "You could never hurt anyone. You have the gentlest soul."
If only she knew what I was planning to do to her.
"But what if I'm wrong?" I pressed, letting real vulnerability show in my voice. "What if the power changes me? I need someone strong enough to help me stay grounded. Someone I trust completely."
I said letting her know she's the only one who can keep me safe and sane.
Her thumbs brushed across my cheekbones, a gesture that was far more intimate than she probably realized. "I'll help you with everything. We'll work together to make sure you can control your abilities safely."
"Promise?" I asked, looking into her eyes with complete sincerity.
"I promise," she said firmly.
Perfect. Now she's emotionally invested in being my guide and protector.
I smiled with genuine relief and gratitude. "Thank you. I don't know what I'd do without you."
And I meant it. Having her expertise and support would be invaluable, regardless of my other plans.
"Now," she said, stepping back slightly but keeping her hands on my shoulders, "shall we continue with the lesson? I want to make sure you feel confident about your abilities."
Oh, Mother. Before this lesson is over, you're going to understand exactly how confident I am.
"Yes," I said, letting my enhanced presence intensify just a bit more. "I want to learn everything you can teach me."
Everything.
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A/N: I want to ask again, which boss level is she?