I don't know when he approached and stood in front of me, but upon seeing my state, he spoke.
"Take deep breaths, Ray. It will help calm your mind. You allowed your senses to take control of your body," he advised, his voice steady and composed. (1)
I was unable to respond verbally, but I understood that he wouldn't come to my aid. It was clear that this was a "do or die" situation for me.
"I've already died once, and I refuse to die here," I thought to myself. With that determination in mind, I followed his advice and took deep breaths, gradually regaining control of my breathing.
After a few seconds, I felt a sense of calm washing over me.
My father spoke again, his words carrying a sense of ancestral pride and responsibility. "Ray Denmark, always remember that pride and strength run deep in your bloodline. Your ancestors hunted monsters, protected commoners, and bestowed upon you both a blessing and a mission."
Absorbing this new information, I listened intently, like a sponge soaking up water.
Suddenly, a gentle breeze passed by, and I remained silent, allowing my mind to process the information. In the distance, I heard the sound of cawing birds. (2)
After a while, I sensed that my father was observing and analyzing me, curious as to why I didn't break down in tears.
A few moments later, I realized that he wanted me to internalize this experience as a valuable lesson for the future.
I gathered my strength, trying to steady myself and cease my trembling. Slowly, I lifted myself from the ground and sat down, mustering all the resolve I had left. I met his gaze directly, displaying my determination.
He nodded, a sense of satisfaction evident in his expression.
He continued speaking, his tone reprimanding yet oddly gentle. "Your senses alerted you to a potential threat, but if you allow those senses to overwhelm you, you will lose yourself. It's like putting the horse before the carriage."
As the sun began to rise, casting its warm rays, I nodded, as if absorbing this newfound insight and wisdom.
I smiled at my father, appreciating the guidance he provided.
He returned the smile and teased, "No more strange faces in response to my nagging, then?" He chuckled after saying this.
Feeling a sense of embarrassment, I replied, "What strange faces? I don't make any strange faces."
He laughed and said, "Of course, of course. So, you can sense my aura now?"
Becoming serious, I answered, "Yes, I felt it, and I doubt I will forget it anytime soon. I also understand that you're not nagging; you're simply educating my ignorant self."
The sun rose higher in the sky, and I gazed at it with a deep sense of appreciation.
He allowed me to savor the beauty of the sunrise, saying, "I am here to take you away. Starting today, you will begin your education, including noble manners, politics, basic swordsmanship, and physical training. You will accompany me and observe my work from the sidelines."
I nodded in acknowledgment and stood up.
Seeing my response, he gently caressed my head and said, "Let's go."
(Author's note: (1) Just breathe.
(2) - Who's that Pokémon?
I swear, if the protagonist weren't Ray, the story would be all about Jamie. You'll learn more about Jamie and just how much of a badass he is later on. Next is Jamie's point of view. I hope you enjoy it. Adios.)