Ethan Hayes's bronze-toned skin glistened with sweat as he performed one-handed push-ups. His daily routine of physical training had remained unchanged for over a decade, blending a warrior's discipline with the insights of a mage.
"Two thousand one... Two thousand two... Two thousand three..." he counted, his breath steady, his focus unyielding.
In a world dominated by magic, Ethan was acutely aware of its limitations. Magic alone wasn't infallible. Physical prowess, he reasoned, could be a vital asset, especially against opponents like Asta, who wielded the anti-magic Demon-Slayer Sword. Even the strongest mages would struggle against Asta's unique abilities if he got within striking distance.
Ethan wasn't training solely for Asta. The world was vast and filled with unpredictable challenges. "Better to prepare now than regret later," he muttered, finishing his push-ups.
After a quick shower and donning his signature white uniform trimmed with gold, Ethan fastened a cloak bearing a dragon emblem over his shoulders. As a distinguished protégé of the Wizard King, his attire was unique, symbolizing his status as a personal trainee.
"So far, I've assisted the Green Mantis, Coral Peacock, and Golden Dawn. Guess it's time to visit the Black Bull squad," Ethan mused as he left the capital.
The Black Bulls had a reputation unlike any other squad. Known for their chaotic behavior and lackluster rankings, they were often ridiculed. Yet, Ethan understood their hidden strength. Each member of the squad was a force to be reckoned with, capable of holding their own in even the direst situations.
After a journey to the Black Bulls' headquarters, Ethan was greeted by the sight of a massive structure resembling a bull. This peculiar building was the creation of Henry, whose "House Magic" brought the headquarters to life.
Arrival at the Black Bulls
"Yosh! Another day to give it my all!" Asta's energetic shout echoed through the air as Ethan approached.
Ethan smiled wryly. "Still as loud as ever," he muttered.
The other squad members were equally distinctive. Magna was playing with fire magic, Vanessa lounged with a drink in hand, Charmy was munching on snacks, and Gordon embroidered a doll in eerie silence. Amid this chaos, Noelle Silva sat poised, exuding elegance but betraying her usual annoyance at her squadmates.
"Hey there, everyone!" Ethan called out.
His greeting was met with indifference at first. Yet, Asta's familiar enthusiasm broke the silence. "Ethan! You're here!"
The squad's attention shifted toward Ethan. Vanessa immediately offered him a drink, while Charmy tempted him with cakes. "He's the four-leaf grimoire guy, huh?" Magna muttered, watching curiously.
As the squad's antics played out, Yami Sukehiro emerged from the shadows, his presence instantly silencing the room. He exhaled a cloud of smoke and fixed Ethan with a sharp gaze.
"So, you're here for a mission?" Yami asked, cutting straight to the point.
Ethan nodded. "Yes, Captain Yami. I'd like to assist in one of your missions today."
Yami grinned. "You're in luck. We've got reports of bandit activity near the Diamond Kingdom border. Asta and Noelle will join you. Make sure you all come back in one piece."
As Yami handed Ethan the mission details, he vanished suddenly, only to reappear behind Ethan with his katana drawn. The blade swung toward Ethan in a flash.
The Black Bulls collectively gasped, their eyes widening in shock.
"Let's see if you're as good as they say, kid," Yami growled, his blade shimmering with dark magic.
In a split second, Ethan reacted. His hand glowed as he summoned a wind barrier infused with fire magic. The fiery gale clashed with Yami's blade, creating a burst of energy that sent nearby debris flying.
The two figures locked eyes, the intensity between them palpable.
Yami smirked, sheathing his sword. "Not bad. You might survive after all."
Ethan exhaled, his guard lowering. "Appreciate the... warm welcome, Captain."
The Black Bulls erupted into laughter, the tension dissolving into camaraderie.
As Ethan prepared to depart with Asta and Noelle, he couldn't help but feel a growing anticipation. This was more than just a mission—it was a step closer to becoming the mage he aspired to be.