Project Superior: A Hero's Awakening

Fireworks and Revelations: A Grand Birthday Night

10th of December, 1809.

The day had finally arrived—Xavier's 9th birthday. Nine years as a cherished member of the Ashford and Ivanovich families, and one year since the passing of his beloved father, Jonathan.

In preparation for his grandson's special day, Grandpa Graviil ensured that the entire nation knew of the occasion, overseeing every detail so that the celebration was perfectly tailored to Xavier's tastes.

Across the Russian Empire, citizens cheered and rejoiced, treating the birthday of their youngest prince as a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Inside the Tsarigrad Citadel, the grand Ivanovich Palace where the main celebration would take place, Xavier stood in his room. Anastasia, along with several maids, carefully dressed him in regal, elegant attire—fit for a prince on his most important day.

As all the other maids left, Anastasia complimented "You look great, Young Master!", clapping her hands in joy with a grin.

"Thank you", Xavier replied, a bit embarrassed as his cheeks reddened.

Alcmena laughed in the corner of the room, saying to Xavier, "You look like a Christmas tree, kid".

Xavier's cheeks reddened more, as he angrily replied, flustered, "Oh really!? Well you look like.... like...".

When Xavier couldn't come up with a comeback, Alcmena burst out laughing, making Xavier even more embarrassed by his outfit.

Realizing that Xavier's spirits were dwindling, Alcmena, who could sense the thoughts of Xavier, as his contractor, took a deep breath and offered an apology. "Don't be so down, kid. I was only joking."

"You actually look great in that outfit."

"Wait, really!?" Xavier exclaimed, searching Alcmena's face for sincerity.

"Yes, really," Alcmena replied, nodding. "That outfit suits you perfectly—it makes you look like a king. Someone truly worthy of wielding Excalibur and carrying the title of the vessel of the great and mighty King of Dragons, King Alcmena D. Regaliath ."

"So wear it with confidence and resilience, and don't let the opinions of others weigh you down."

"Xavier nodded excitedly, and Alcmena smiled with pride, seeing how much his student—whom he regarded as a son—had grown.

From a distance, Anastasia watched with a joyful smile, touched by the bond between Xavier and Alcmena, not just as master and student, but as father and son.

Picking up the Visors of Time, Xavier's mind was instantly refreshed by the pair of glasses, and all the anxiety and worries he had in him, were not all gone.

"With a confident stride, Xavier approached his room's door and, smiling calmly at Anastasia, said, 'Shall we, Miss Anastasia? The guests must be waiting for me."

The grand hall, where the banquet for Xavier's birthday was held, brimmed with nobles, politicians, and all of Xavier's friends, classmates, and former students. Every face in the room belonged to someone who had known him during his years at the academy or in public life. Lavish gifts filled every corner, tributes from the many distinguished guests in attendance.

Laughter and lively conversation echoed through the hall until, with a sudden shift, the room fell into a reverent hush. The royal guards had announced Xavier's arrival.

All eyes turned to the young prince, poised on the ornate balcony above. Draped in regal finery, he surveyed the gathering below, the anticipation palpable as his audience waited for him to speak.

With a glass of wine on his left hand, Graviil thanked everyone for attending his beloved grandson's 9th birthday.

Graviil continued, his voice rich with pride, "To celebrate my grandson's birthday, we shall first indulge in the finest feast this world has to offer. Then, we will be treated to a magnificent theater performance, brought to life by the most renowned actors. And finally, a grand display of fireworks will light up the skies across the entire nation, marking this special day in my beloved grandson's honor."