Chapter XXI: A Brother's Promise
The arrival of a new family member had brought joy and excitement to the Emberhart Estate. The baby girl, a bundle of innocence swathed in soft blankets, had captured the hearts of her parents, Alaric and Ellara, and her doting older brother, Eric.
Eric's daily routine underwent a subtle but significant transformation. He couldn't bear to miss a single moment with his little sister. The sun had barely begun to cast its golden rays upon the estate when he arose from his slumber, eager to greet the day with all the energy he could muster.
First on Eric's list was his morning training. He had come to understand the value of physical fitness, not just for his own growth but also as a means to protect and care for his family. The early morning air resonated with the rhythmic clang of steel as Eric engaged in his swordsmanship drills. Shadow, his loyal companion, joined him in these exercises. Despite his imposing appearance, Shadow moved with grace and agility, demonstrating his mastery of training alongside Eric.
After his training, Eric would freshen up, his body glistening with a thin sheen of sweat. He then headed straight to his sister's chamber. There, he stood by her crib, watching her sleep with wonderment in his eyes. The baby, still unnamed officially, lay nestled like a precious gem within the crib. Eric marveled at how such a tiny, fragile being held the promise of a bright future.
Ellara, still recovering from the recent birth, would be resting nearby. Her eyes filled with affection as she observed her son doting on his new sister. Eric's presence brought a warmth to her heart, and she couldn't have asked for a better older brother for her daughter.
During these quiet moments, Eric would ask his mother endless questions about his sister. What would her name be? When would she start talking? How soon would she be able to walk? Ellara answered each inquiry with patience and love, sharing in Eric's boundless enthusiasm for his sibling.
Seraphina, too, had developed a deep affection for the baby girl. As a seasoned magician and a caregiver during the birth, she felt a unique bond with the newborn. She often visited Ellara and the baby, her eyes sparkling with maternal instincts rarely seen by those who knew her as a stern teacher.
Eric's morning routine also included some time with Shadow. He had taken it upon himself to ensure that Shadow would be a gentle and trustworthy companion for his sister as she grew older. The large, wolfish creature had already proven his loyalty, and now Eric was determined to train him further.
As Eric continued his training with Shadow, everyone in the household noticed the canine's transformation. The once-black pup had grown into a formidable and wolfish-looking creature. His intelligence was undeniable, and his loyalty to the Emberhart family was unwavering. Despite his imposing appearance, they knew Shadow would never harm a soul within their household.
Eric's dedication to his sister's future safety and well-being didn't go unnoticed. The family recognized the love and care he had for his little sister, and they admired his determination to protect her. However, there was an underlying concern—Eric's training had progressed at an astonishing rate. He had become a formidable force for someone his age, and his abilities were unmatched among his peers. But experience was the missing piece of the puzzle, and without it, he was like a finely crafted sword yet to be tested in battle.
Alaric, acknowledging his son's potential, had a candid conversation with him one evening. "Eric," he began, "I am proud of the man you are becoming, but I need you to understand that theoretical knowledge alone won't be enough in the Academy. You also need practical experience."
Eric nodded in agreement, understanding his father's point. The Royal Academy was known for its rigorous training, and he wanted to be as prepared as possible.
With that in mind, Alaric and Seraphina, along with Eric, devised a plan. It was time for Eric's monster hunting trip, a rite of passage for young magicians. This journey would serve a dual purpose—to level up Eric, who was currently a level 5, and to provide him with valuable experience that would serve him well in the Academy.
The days leading up to the trip were filled with preparations. Weapons were sharpened, supplies gathered, and Eric's excitement grew with each passing moment. He was both sad to leave his little sister and eager to prove himself, to return to the Emberhart Estate stronger and more experienced, ready to protect his family in any way he could.
As the day of departure drew near, Eric stood at the crossroads of his life—a journey into the unknown lay ahead, and a promise to be the best brother and protector he could be anchored him to his family. With unwavering determination, he was ready to embark on the next chapter of his life, guided by his father's wisdom and his mother's love.