After completing my morning meditation, I opened my eyes and let out a soft sigh. "I'll reach the second kosmos in a few days," I whispered to myself. "I will need to find a way to mask my level."
Just as I finished speaking, my maid arrived to assist me. I took a refreshing bath, allowing the warm water to wash away any residual fatigue. Once dressed, I made my way to the dining hall for breakfast with my mother.
As I walked towards the hall, thoughts swirled in my mind. How would I convince my mother to allow me to learn swordsmanship? It was a skill I believed would complement my magical abilities, but would she understand?
Entering the dining room, I was greeted by a pleasant surprise. Lady Isabella, one of my father's other wives, sat there with her distinct features—brown hair cascading down her shoulders, sharp nose, and captivating brown eyes nestled on her oval shaped face. Her elegance and more curvaceous frame was a striking contrast to my mother's and beside her were my older sisters, Sophia and Lilly.
Sophia, my older sister, possessed a graceful presence that seemed to radiate from within her. Her chestnut brown hair cascaded down her back in gentle waves, framing her delicate features. Her almond-shaped eyes, a captivating shade of hazel, held a spark of intelligence and curiosity. With each movement, she exuded an air of confidence and poise beyond her years while Lilly was a petite and delicate presence, full of innocence and charm. Her silky golden brown locks cascaded in gentle waves, framing her cherubic face and emphasizing her bright blue eyes, which sparkled with a playful and mischievous glint. Her button nose and rosy cheeks added to her youthful and adorable appearance.
I extended warm greetings to all of them, and we began engaging in conversation. Naturally, they inquired about my progress in magic. With a confident smile, I responded, "It has been quite good, sisters. I've been gathering all the information I need to progress in the palace library, and I must say, it's quite fascinating to read about."
The sisters exchanged glances, and Sophia remarked, "You're way too mature for a six-year-old, Barrett." I blushed slightly at the compliment, expressing my gratitude.
Curiosity piqued, I turned the conversation towards them, asking how their own studies and activities were going. Sophia proudly started sharing
"I am currently attending the esteemed Silvermoon Academy, one of the finest magical institutions on the continent. Although the studies were challenging, I am giving my best effort to uphold the honor of the royal family."
I couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for my talented sister.
Curiosity got the best of me, and I asked Sophia about her current level.
"I've just recently broken through to the radiant stage of the 3rd kosmos, however I'm nowhere near where sister Amelia was at my age"
'She's quite talented, are all my siblings like that'
"Sister, could you tell me all the schools that we have in the kingdom, or is that too many"
"Well it isn't too many brother, there are only eight, there is the Silvermoon Academy, Arcane Blade Academy, Crystaline Academy, Sentinel's Guild, Dawnbringer Academy, Mystic Blades School, the School of the Celestial Order, and the Shadowfire Academy"- after taking a breath she continued "If you wish to learn magic, the best academy would be the Silvermoon Academy, it teaches swordsmanship as well but swordsmen prefer to go to either Arcane Blade or Dawnbringer with Mystic Blades and the Sentinel's Guild being an institution more suited to commoners and if one wishes to pursue the more theoretical side of magic they attend the Crystaline Academy"
"Ah, Thank You for the explanation sister"
Inwardly contemplating this, I turned my attention to Lilly.
"So what about you sister Lilly, where do you intend to study?"
"I intend to learn enchanting and rune crafting at the Crystaline Academy."
"Interesting, I read about runes and enchantments, I would have tried my hand at it but alas my magic proficiency is not quite developed at the moment."
"Well you are only six years old brother, it took me until I was 8 to even reach the Awakening Stage of the 1st Kosmos."
"Wow!, might I ask your current level sister" I replied faking my enthusiasm,
"Certainly brother, I am now at the Blossoming Stage of the 2nd Kosmos," replied Lilly with a proud expression.
Looking at her expression I thought to myself, 'Why is she doing her face like that, I'll be at that level by next week'
Engaging in conversation for a few more minutes, I finally turned towards my mother. There was a subtle shift in the atmosphere as I sought a private moment with her.
"Mother, I have something important to discuss with you," I began, my voice filled with a mixture of excitement and determination.
My mother's gaze softened as she looked at me, her eyes reflecting a hint of curiosity. "What is it, Barrett? You seem quite eager."
Taking a deep breath, I mustered my confidence and replied, "After spending time in the library and doing some thinking, I've realized that I want to learn swordsmanship. I believe it will complement my magical abilities and help me become a more well-rounded individual."
There was a flicker of surprise in my mother's eyes, followed by a hint of skepticism that danced across her face. She arched an eyebrow and replied, "Swordsmanship, my dear? It's not something we often associate with mages. Are you sure about this?"
With unwavering determination, I nodded and continued, "Yes, Mother. I believe it will expand my skillset and make me more capable in various situations. Besides, it's an art form that has fascinated me for quite some time. I want to become proficient in both magic and the sword."
My mother's expression softened, and she leaned forward, her voice filled with a mix of concern and love. "Barrett, you're still young. Swordsmanship requires discipline, training, and dedication and not to mention you have to show this dedication while simultaneously focusing on magic. It can be a danger to your development."
I met her gaze with sincerity, my eyes gleaming with determination. "I understand the risks, Mother. But I believe that with the proper guidance and mentorship, I can learn to wield a sword skillfully while still maintaining my focus on magic. It will be an opportunity for personal growth and development."
She sighed softly, her eyes reflecting a mix of hesitation and affection. "Very well, my dear. If you're truly committed to this path, I will support you. But there are conditions. You must promise to spend more time with me. Family is important, Barrett." I nodded eagerly, feeling a surge of gratitude and excitement.
"Thank you, Mother. I promise spend more quality time with you." A gentle smile tugged at my mother's lips, and she reached out to place a hand on mine. "Thank You my dear, I will work on finding a teacher for you."