Became a Demon with Pregnancy System-Chapter 49: I challenge him to duel

"Classes don’t start for another two months," Marissa said. "You’ve got plenty of time to explore the campus and get settled."

"Explore, huh?" Luke said, his grin widening. "Sounds like fun."

As they walked away from the main building, Luke couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement. The Demon Capital was full of possibilities, and he was just getting started.

Back at their temporary residence, Luke sprawled out on a couch, his thoughts drifting. The day had gone better than expected, and he was feeling optimistic about the future.

Marissa sat across from him, her arms crossed. "You’re plotting something, aren’t you?" she asked, narrowing her eyes.

Luke chuckled. "Always."

Zoe rolled her eyes. "Well, whatever you’re planning, just make sure it doesn’t get us all expelled."

Luke grinned mischievously. "No promises."

Marissa sighed. "Why do I get the feeling this is going to be a long semester?"

"Eight stars, it turned out to be eight stars. Intermediate Mage!"

An examiner with slightly gray temples exclaimed in disbelief.

It wasn’t uncommon to find intermediate mages among new students, but a mid-level mage from the Curse system was a rarity unseen in decades. Such talent promised future prestige, possibly elevating the individual to a chief guest position in one of the top organizations.

The Curse system, due to its eerie and unpredictable nature, had been set apart as the most significant subset within Pearl Academy’s Dark Arts.

The bald examiner nearly slipped off his stool but quickly straightened himself, his eyes fixed on the starry glow radiating from Luke. Yet that was only the beginning.

The eighth star ignited, then the ninth. Soon, twenty to thirty dark stars surrounded Luke, each radiating a strange brilliance.

"Can he complete the mid-level star map?" the examiner with gray temples whispered, his voice laced with shock.

There’s an immense difference between being a mid-level mage and possessing the ability to complete a mid-level star map. Without this capability, no mage could truly wield the power of their newfound level.

"Take your time, young man," Professor Xavier said kindly, his calm demeanor belying the growing excitement in his gaze.

"Of course," Luke replied, flashing a reassuring smile. Professor Xavier’s patient encouragement was a welcome change, prompting him to take his time.

Meanwhile, Marissa frowned as she watched Luke from the sidelines. "Why is Luke connecting his stars so slowly?"

Zoe tilted her head, her expression equally puzzled. "Yeah, it’s weird. It’s like he’s dragging this out on purpose."

Marissa sighed. "He’s doing this to tease the examiners. Typical Luke."

If Luke overheard Marissa’s comment, he would have nodded proudly. The old professors and examiners at Pearl Academy were some of the most influential figures in the magic community. Catching their attention, even through such playful theatrics, could solidify one’s standing.

Finally, Luke’s stars lit up one by one, steady and flawless.

Forty-eight, forty-nine.

The complete star map of the Curse system emerged, a glowing masterpiece surrounded by dark energy. At its center, the image of a menacing Soul Eater Spider was born, its web stretching throughout the room.

"He completed it..." the bald examiner muttered, his voice trembling.

The room fell silent, the weight of Luke’s display sinking in. The bald examiner broke the silence first, his tone now groveling. "Classmate Luke, I was... I may have been a bit hasty earlier. Please don’t take it to heart."

Luke didn’t even spare him a glance, dismissing the apology without a word.

The bald examiner shrank in his chair, his earlier arrogance replaced by a palpable sense of regret.

"Well done!" Professor Xavier exclaimed, his face lit with pride. "Luke, your performance earns you our highest rating—SSS. Pearl Academy is honored to welcome you."

"Thank you, Professor," Luke said, offering a courteous nod. His deliberate display had the desired effect. These professors would undoubtedly remember his performance, ensuring a strong foundation for future endeavors.

"Wait a moment," one of the other examiners interjected, leaning forward. "Classmate Luke, could I ask about your star size—"

"That’s enough!" Professor Xavier cut him off sharply. "Some details are best left to the student’s discretion."

Luke shot the professor a grateful look. Sharing too much about his unique abilities could cause unnecessary complications. He appreciated the professor’s tact.

"Now, let’s move on to the next candidate," Professor Xavier said, turning to Zoe. "Zoe, it’s your turn. Let’s see what surprises you have for us."

"Go, Zoe!" Marissa cheered, pumping her fist in encouragement.

Zoe gave a confident smile. "I’m ready."

Luke stood back, entirely unconcerned. He knew Zoe’s abilities well. A mid-level mage specializing in Fire magic with a secondary aptitude for healing, she would undoubtedly leave an impression.

But before the test could begin, a loud voice interrupted the proceedings.

"Wait a minute!" The doors burst open, and Ethan White stormed into the room, his face red with fury.

"You!" Ethan pointed at Luke. "You dared to attack me? Do you know who I am? I’ll make you regret it!"

Drenched and seething, Ethan looked utterly ridiculous, yet his anger was real.

"Classmate Ethan, please remember where you are," Professor Xavier said sternly. "This is Pearl Academy, not your family’s estate."

Luke watched silently, a small smirk playing on his lips. The professor’s immediate defense was all the confirmation he needed—he’d successfully earned the professor’s favor.

Ethan bristled. "Professor, you don’t understand. He ambushed me earlier and threw me into the lake! This is an insult to me and my family!"

As Ethan ranted, Marissa stepped forward, her voice steady and clear. "Professor, let me explain. Ethan approached us earlier, behaving rudely and provoking Luke. When he got too close, Luke used the simplest magic to repel him. The fault lies entirely with Ethan."

The professor’s gaze turned icy as he addressed Ethan. "Enough. This matter ends here. You are uninjured, and no harm has been done. There’s no need to escalate this further."

Ethan looked incredulous. "Professor Xavier, are you seriously taking his side? This is—"

"No. If you persist, you’ll only embarrass yourself further," the professor said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Ethan’s fists clenched, his pride unwilling to let the matter drop. "Fine! Then I challenge him to a duel. Right here, right now!"