In the following morning, Selric awaited Prince Elias with a mixture of concern and anticipation etched across his features. The previous day's efforts had revealed the challenging nature of the task ahead. Sensing mana, a crucial step in the path to becoming a mage, was no simple feat. While those with innate talent for magic could achieve this within a matter of hours, Prince Elias had struggled to sense the elusive energy even after dedicating six grueling hours to the endeavor.
This situation weighed heavily on Selric's mind. As a mage himself, he understood the significance of being attuned to the currents of mana that flowed through the world. The fact that the prince had not yet achieved this fundamental connection raised questions about his aptitude for magic. However, Selric also recognized that talent wasn't the only determinant—determination, persistence, and guidance played pivotal roles.
As Selric stood there, his contemplative gaze fixed on the entrance, he couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead for both himself and Prince Elias on this magical journey. Would the prince eventually tap into his latent abilities, or would the realm of magic remain a distant and inaccessible realm for him? With a deep breath, Selric braced himself for the day's lessons, ready to guide Elias through the challenges that lay ahead.
Prince Elias stepped into the room, his gaze meeting Selric's as they prepared to resume their discussion. The topic on their minds was none other than the intricate process of meditation and mana-sensing. With earnest intent, Elias shared his experience of the previous day's attempts and listened carefully as Selric provided guidance and insights.
As their conversation flowed, Selric explained the nuances of meditation, the need for focused concentration, and the importance of attuning oneself to the natural energies that surrounded them. He emphasized the connection between the mind, body, and mana—a triad that formed the foundation of magic.
With renewed determination, Elias settled into his meditation stance once more. Closing his eyes, he cleared his mind and allowed his thoughts to recede into the background. Minutes turned into an hour, and his perseverance remained unshaken. A sense of warmth began to stir within his abdomen, a subtle sensation that ignited a spark of hope. He pressed on, pushing past the two-hour mark, until he felt an intriguing shift.
Within the depths of his being, a faint light seemed to awaken—a glimmer of energy that resonated with the descriptions Selric had shared. Elias recognized that this was mana, the life force that mages tapped into for their spells. Though it was but a faint presence, like a flicker in the dark, Elias clung to it eagerly. It was a small step, a seed of progress amidst the vast unknown.
As Elias continued his meditation, focusing on that delicate connection, he marveled at the journey that lay ahead. The road to becoming a mage was far from easy, and this single moment marked his initiation into the world of magic. With a blend of excitement and determination, he resolved to nurture this fledgling link, to fan the spark of mana within him into a blazing fire of potential.
As Prince Elias delved deeper into his meditation, his focus remained unwavering. He could feel the minuscule thread of mana within him, pulsating with a rhythm that seemed to harmonize with his own heartbeat. Selric's teachings echoed in his mind as he attempted to attune himself to this newfound energy source. He envisioned it as a delicate flame, yearning to grow stronger.
Meanwhile, within the chambers of the castle, a different kind of discussion was unfolding. Barron Aric and his wife, Barroness, sat together in a room adorned with tapestries and flickering candles. Their thoughts were entwined with the intricate web of Kivan's affairs—the ongoing state of the kingdom, the ambitions of their grandchildren, and the path that lay ahead.
"It would be a blessing, wouldn't it?" Barron Aric's voice was rich with pride and hope as he leaned back in his chair. "Our wise grandson Elias becoming king could truly bring about a brighter future for Kivan."
Barroness gaze was gentle, her expression one of fondness. "Indeed, my love. Elias possesses a unique blend of wisdom and compassion. He has the potential to lead the kingdom with both strength and empathy."
However, as the elders contemplated the idea, a shadow of concern crossed their faces. Beside them stood their son, Josh, his arms crossed as he voiced a pragmatic viewpoint. "But Father, Mother, let us not forget the practicality of such aspirations. We lack the resources and influence needed to support Elias's claim to the throne."
His words held a weight of truth that the elderly couple understood. Kivan's political landscape was a complex tapestry woven with power, alliances, and intrigue. While Elias might possess qualities befitting a king, the road to the throne was fraught with challenges. Resources, allies, and strategic moves were all crucial components in this intricate game.
Barron Aric sighed, a mixture of hope and resignation in his eyes. "You are right, my son. The task ahead is formidable. But let us not lose sight of our grandson's potential. Perhaps destiny has plans for him that are beyond our current understanding."
As they considered their options, the elderly couple's hearts held onto the hope that Elias's path would be illuminated by fate. In the realm of both the prince's meditation and the family's conversations, threads of destiny were being woven, shaping the course of their lives in ways they could not yet fathom.