"Father, it's hard. No matter what I do, they wouldn't gather." Teodor complained. They were at it for a week now with no results. Of course, Teodor would be frustrated.
Eryk felt troubled. Eryk knew that Teodor is talented. Teodor proved it on the first day of training when he was able to see the surrounding lumine. That was supposed to be the hard part.
"I'm-" Eryk hesitated. He didn't know if he should tell the truth. In the end, his trust in his son prevailed over his worry. "I'm sorry Little Sprout. I was afraid of this. A few weeks after I picked you up, I noticed that you lacked manas. Before I met you, if anyone told me someone would lack manas, I'd tell them that they were absurd. It's because manas are gifts from gods. A gift to all beings on Trisivis. No matter how large or small, anyone possesses a certain amount. But; you possess none."
"You shouldn't apologize father. It's not your fault." Teodor comforted. 'A gift from gods to all of Trisivis but... I'm an "Outsider"', he thought.
Eryk knew how much Teodor immersed himself in magic. He gave him direction and hope but it was all for naught. That's why Eryk's heart broke when he heard Teodor console. He couldn't help but hug him not just for his son's comfort but more to hide the shame. To hide that he was almost in tears. To hide that he was close to breaking down.
"It's alright, Teodor. I'll find a way." Eryk comforted back. 'Even the gods have abandoned you, I'll never do. Your path may be blocked but, with a hammer in hand, I'll build another one for you to walk on. That's my oath to you as a father.' He muttered silently in his heart.
When Teodor was hugged, he couldn't help but hug back and dig further into the embrace. Teodor tightened his hold to tell his father that he was alright. He was strong. He wasn't saddened by the fact that he can't use magic. After all, he lived his previous life without it. When he heard his father's comforting words, he smiled. He was happy. Although Eryk tried to hide it, he heard his voice tremble. His father was sad for him and that was enough. It was because his father loved him. It was something he never had before. That's why he was grateful.
"It's getting late father. Let's go inside. I'll prepare for dinner while you go wash up." Teodor said as he patted his father's back.
"Okay," Eryk replied. That was the only thing he could do for now.