"Lord Nuu, the importance of mana should be to protect one's vital organs, so if I'm not mistaken this should be one of the key factors as to why Practioner live as long as they do, unlike us mortals."
Nuu's expression said it all, as he sat on the table, "Continue!"
" Through observing my father, I was able to piece a few ideas on mana. After all, we're all breathing the same substance, so why is it impossible for mortals to shoot out fire, or dissect Mirth?
The only conclusion I came upon is our anatomy is different, I'm not just talking about having a stronger physique, if that was truly the case there would be more Squires and Knight. I honestly believe that I saw the missing link at the Banquet Hall.
The golden glow looks nothing like the mana?" Yeli's eyes blaze with excitement, not caring in the least.
'A promising genius…To sire such a brilliant lad. Oh, my sweet Hilda! I wasn't mistaken about you! Such good cock sleeves need to be rewarded!'
At the age of 5, the now 18-years-old Yeli observed Phi's training for the past 13 years until his father quit being a Squire.
'Just maybe, this man standing across from him had the answer.' thought Yeli
' How long did he hide it?' thought Amin
"Quiet observant aren't you…it's a shame you're not blessed with Spiritual Force," said Nuu
"..."
"Don't lose heart, I'll nurture you into the finest Grand Knight this nation has seen, This goes for all of you.
Your conjecture on mana wasn't entirely wrong, I'm quite surprised you reach such a level without formal tutelage.
Hilda sure did a fantastic job. Hopefully, she does better with my offspring…" Not a shred of shame could be seen on Nuu's face as he pats Yeli's back.
"Eh?"
No matter how much of a meat-head Amin seems, he surely understood the innuendo.
Menos had a look of pity for Yeli.
[Birds of feathers flock together]
Yeli gritted his teeth, but he dare not lash out.
This man wholes the key to a world beyond mortality, so what if his mother became a common whore.
If he were to flay about recklessly would that change the outcome? Only by becoming strong, can his voice and will be respected. As the eldest of a group of Triplet. It is his job to protect his brothers
Who dares to point a finger at his mother? If he had Nuu's capability.
Although Phi treats all his children well. There's bound to be neglect and bad blood
Toljr receives all the attention; meanwhile, Yeli's talent is buried under a thick layer of concrete.
His resentment towards his father and a new life is given through his mother's sacrifice.
Originally, Olivia wanted all her sons to attend.
Although Nuu stated at the banquet, he was willing to accept any of their offspring, ' it was simply nonsensical to actually take him seriously. To raise a Mortal to a Knight would cost any noble household 175 to 200 million ducats, the equivalent of purchasing an Airship.
Phi had to sit his brain-dead Madame down and explain the actual meaning behind his 'brother's words.
While that was going on, Hilda made a backroom deal with Nuu
'I can't be mediocre, only by standing out can I repay my mother.' thought Yeli
A few breaths later, a series of knocks follow.
"Ah, right on cue," said Nuu
A maiden carrying a smooth rounded stone and a feather walks in.
" Just place them on the table," said Nuu
"Will that be all, Milord?"
Nuu nodded as he dismiss the maiden.
Once he got the attention of Menos, Amin, and Yeli.
" What you mortals call Mana, it's simply the manipulation of one's own life force. This may be your first time hearing this word. Aura, but do remember its importance! After all, it's the path you'll be walking!"
The trio beam at such a revelation, " Uncle, why is it not called Mana?"
" A good question, Menos! You see, mana alone cannot create a Knight; those walking our path lack the Aptitude to forge Runes. You have heard the old adage; All living being has a Sea, but all cannot walk the path, right?"
A collective nod follows along with inquisitive hands.
"Calm down, I'll explain! Although a Knight lacks the ability to create Mind Runes, the Sea of Conscience can still be used as a catalyst, especially the dormant reservoir.
However, this process claims the life of 65% of mortals daring to break free.
Unlike the standardized Knight and Acolytes, an individual with a bloodline can repair cracks within the Sea without sacrifice
But the same can not be said for you. After all, you're just a regular human, Menos. Are you willing to give up everything in pursuit of power?"
Menos didn't know what to say, this 'cheap uncle' of his was not joking.
" I th in k I'm wi ll ng."
It became hard for him to vocalize, and the atmosphere change.
" Take a deep breath, and think carefully. I do not require an answer at the moment, Whatever your decision may be, I will still be here for you, even if it's the lifestyle of a wastrel."
Menos' eyes became red.
They could feel the concern and love pouring out.
" Stop that, it's unmanly! How many times must I repeat myself, a man only shed tears, when he can't get it up!"
"..."
"..."
*Sigh!*
A peal of laughter echoes through the room
The room finally quiets down a little while later, "Like I was saying, the way of the sword is full of perils, so don't let your guard down. This applies to you, don't rely heavily on that man's bloodline."
"Wait…How do you know him?" said Amin
"Why so shocked? Although it's a long-forgotten name, I pride myself on the knowledge of old, I may not look scholarly, but don't look down on me…If I'm not mistaken, your father and all dwarves' kin, possesses 10 to 30 percent of The Star Bearer's blood. "
Amin's perspired profusely, 'What is this man?'
"Relax, I'm not that depraved to harvest Lullva's essence."
Yeli looks on with great confusion, "Who's Lullva, why am I hearing this now?"
"Speak not his name, lest his gaze cast upon you," said Amin
"..."
"A month from now, the Human Cauldron will commence.
This is your schedule for the coming week."
Once everyone had their itinerary, their faces became darker than charcoal.
Weekly Schedule
Mogu: An hour lecture, 1 ½ hour variation on swordplay followed by a Q & A, and a 3-hour massage session [Lord Nuu]
Tugu: 10 minutes stretch, 1,000 Squats, 1,000 Push-ups, 1,000 Sit-ups, 20 minutes breaks, and 30k runs. [Lord Oga]
Wegu: Mountain Scaling while carrying twice the weight, Elevation 5,000 meters, Time limit: 30 minutes. Hour meditation at the summit. [Instructor Gregor]
Tħgu: Swinging a blade 25,000 times, while under a waterfall followed by an hour of meditation. [L.N]
Frigu: Dodging projectile for 2 hours, followed by 25 minutes of hand-to-hand combat [I.G]
Sagu: Sparing with peers for 6 hours, and a herbal bath to end the session [L.N]
Sugu: A day of rest.
"I'll add more if need be. I need not remind you guys on the shackle, talk with your father, and the sooner it's done the better," said Nuu
Menos looking on in confusion.
Nuu couldn't help shaking his head, the lad was a spitting image of Nathan, the only difference being, he was taller and slightly more handsome than the Viscount.
"It has to do with our bloodline, I'll tell you later," said Yeli
"Okay. what's your plan for later?" said Menos
"Silence, I'm still speaking, any questions regarding the schedule?"
" Lord Nuu! Can you clarify, the first day?" said Amin
" I plan to take you on a field trip, to the Colosseum. Learn what you can, but do not imitate their technique, develop a style unique to yourself."
A boisterous sound followed as the trio couldn't help beaming
"It's not anything worth celebrating, right? " said Nuu
"Lord Nuu, the Colosseum is where brave warriors slug it out," said Yeli
"Well you can thank Menos' mother for that, she owns the place."
'Woah, she must be loaded' thought Amin
" About the therapeutic massage, I would hate to see my prospective pupil dying from fatigue. There will be three masseuses attending to each of your needs Do remember the name of these maidens: Sage, Iih, and BÜr. I believe you have met Sage?"
Flush cheeks followed in response.
After all, they remember Instructor Gregor's expression as Sage leads him to the back room, the trio couldn't help sucking in cold air, such curves.
The women of the bathhouse were top-notch. Now such beauty will be assigned to them.
" I have a follow-up question, the schedule said Lord Oga will be one of the instructors, will Lady Nori accompany his lordship?"
"..."
"..."
" Hehe! You're quite ambitious, hun? I don't blame you though, but Nori will not be in attendance."
The brothers became downcasted as Menos cackles away
" You brats don't fear death, even if she was available, Nori's techniques are not suited for men. A little advice, man to man. Don't bite more than you can chew. At the same time, I really want to root for you, so best of luck…"
'I can already picture the look on her face.'
"Gu Gu Gu!"
" Don't worry Lord Nuu, I'll make her my woman!" Out of the left field, Yeli made a bold proclamation.
"Go for it champ!" Nuu chuckles
Do you also want to take a swing, Menos?"
"..."
The resolve of fools, amidst waves of laughter.
"Back Off, Yeli! I'm giving you face since we're related, but don't covet what you shouldn't" said Amin
"..."
"Humph, why should I? She is not your property, and I'm not a child."
"Behave, while I'm still nice! A woman like that is a fine wine, don't soil her with inexperienced!"
Nuu's laughter grew even louder.
' Brother might get a good chuckle out of this '
" I offered three masseuses and you're panting after a woman that may not give you the time of day, such funny fellow, right Menos?"
Both brothers' faces became redder than a monkey's ass.
"I'm still 16 years old, Uncle!"
Menos' had a complicated expression, he too has a crush on Nori
[After all, the Laws of Khan prevent intercourse with minors.]
"Hehe, my bad! I forgot you're 2 weeks from becoming a man."
" Alright, everyone settled down, I would like to touch on Yeli's observation. 'The Glow,' better known as Aura.
The nodes of mortal are normally sealed unless an external force is applied, I'll take it brother Phi has already unlocked your nodes. That should be the reason you saw my aura, right?"
Yeli nodded, but he had to beg non-stop, for his father to agree.
Amin's indifference could be assumed that his nodes were awakened long ago.
" What are Nodes?" said Menos
"Nodes prevent mortals from actively interacting with mana, the little twat had father pour his essence into his Iris…" said Amin
Nuu nodded in agreement, "Technically they're half-awakened until a mortal step foot on the path of godhood, it's all just blurred.
The only difference between his sight and yours is that Yeli can perceive vague images of 'intent,' while you're completely in darkness."
"Uncle, at the end of the day it's still blurred," said Menos
" It would be better if I demonstrate." Nuu walk up to Menos as he held out his hand, the number 3 at the tip of the finger.
" Tell me, what am I holding up?"
"Hun, there's nothing. Why are you looking at me like that?"
" Amin, what's at the tip of my finger,"
" it looks like a snake"
" I think it's a number, probably 5."
"It's indeed a number, let's try one more test"
A few breaths later, Amin and Yeli were cowering at the back of the room, meanwhile, Menos foamed at the mouth curl into a ball.
"Wake him up, I didn't even release that much"
But contrary to what Nuu believes, everyone within 200 meters was foaming at the mouth.
"Do you get it now Menos? Although they can not clearly see the number 3.
Unlike you, they could 'escape' danger.
A few seconds can determine life and death, I know you have heard stories of mortals dying beyond the wall. Did you know, 43 percent of death is due to being fully exposed to a practitioner's radiation."
….
Meanwhile, in the City Lord's Office
Myra suddenly stop mid-sentence, as she hurried towards the balcony, but the training ground was empty
" It's a passing tremor," said Oga
'Does he take me for a fool? What was that heart-wrenching feeling, a meer tremor, even his lies are cute.'
'As reckless as ever.' mumble Oga
"Are you being serious, Myra?" Nylah boldly sat on Oga's lap
" Nylah, your behavior is quite indecent, I might just file a report," said Myra
"You wouldn't dare, or have you forgotten to whom you're speaking?"
"Humph, a little joke and you're being so defensive. We're all on the same team" Myra planted another wet kiss on Oga's lips.
Only to be pulled into his embrace.
" Not in my wildest dream, did I see myself sharing a man with Nathan's blood."
A truly scandalous situation, the City Lord and the Viscount's daughter sharing the same cock.
Myra fell into his embrace as a series of kisses landed on her cherry lips.
A few breaths later…
"We'll have more time for this… continue what you were saying." Oga fell into the sofa.
It took a while for Myra to gather her thoughts.
"If I'm not mistaken, fathers should be arriving in the capital by next week, the Emperor's health has taken a turn for the worst, the 3rd Prince's camp is scrambling and the Crown Prince must be elated to hear such news. The troubling aspect is the Royal Summon, does that not seem suspicious, such a thing has only happened twice in our history," said Myra
"Are you worried about your father?" said Nylah
"He should be fine. Bedside the Crown Prince wouldn't care about small fry like him."
'Is she being serious? Your father is one of the idiots that funds the 3rd Prince, You really thought the Crown Prince wouldn't notice, Nathan?' Nylah kept such thoughts to herself.
"..."
…..
The first floor of the Mansion.
" That's why there's a restriction in every city, they differ based on ranks, but it exists nonetheless.
Hands down, I already know the question you're dying to ask, but that topic is for our next session. Has everyone touched the feather?"
"Everyone has touched it!"
"Good, use the same feather to open this rock!"
"What???"
" That's impossible, it's only a frail feather!"
"Humph, just do as you're told!"
Yeli and Menos had a doubtful expressions.
Amin boldly walk forward and with a swift motion, he struck the head shape rock, a situation similar to cutting a loaf of bread.
*swoosh!*
The room fell into complete silence.
"This, this thi… can't be real???" said Menos
" Are you still not convinced? Alright, wait a few seconds. I'll give you a chance"
"Eeh!"
A chance he got, but the situation was a little awkward.
"Why isn't it cutting?"
"My residue ran out, a constant flow must be applied….Once you become a Knight, You'll truly understand. Starting next week, bring a blank scroll. Menos don't forget, I'll need your answer before the weekend….This concludes our lesson, there will be no further classes."
'Time to get wasted, and rob a few piggies.'
The moment Nuu pushed open the double brown doors, Oga blocks his path.
"What's the meaning of this, brother?"
"You fool, do you not understand what's going on?" An annoyed Oga stood in his path
" Are you seriously acting on the speculation of that imbecile?" said Nuu
"Watch your mouth! I have already confirmed the truth behind this…"
"Oh, you sure move quickly!"
" As dense as a brick, follow along" Oga took to the sky.
As the servants looked up with envy
A city coated in bliss lies below, with a festive atmosphere, children running around, and vendors selling their goods.
The brothers stood on the rooftop.
"This better be good!" A peeve Nuu
A heated discussion when on for an hour long.
Nuu had a complicated expression.
" Can you do it?"
"You do understand, what you're asking?" said Nuu
"But, I can only entrust you with this task. Yanis and Nori won't be able to shake the roots."
"Very well, but I get to choose!" said Nuu
"Do as you see fit, no witnesses…You need not worry about Menos and the rest, I'll hold the fort down," said Oga
"What about Nori's suggestion?" said Nuu
"...."
" I would have said No, but with this news, my plans are simply being tossed left and right. But you'll shoulder whatever problem arises!"
"Deal, another thing…send my regards to Yaya and Hilda."
Nuu's presence vanish from the roof
" Will do, and take care brother!" said Oga