**Chapter 4: A Young Mage's Ambitions**
It's now the fifth year since I came to this world. Yes, as you guessed, it's been five years. In this time frame, I learned a lot of things. Also had some intense training sessions with my father. I also came to know that normally kids around my age don't learn as early as I did. Maybe my capacity for neuroplasticity is my cheat ability. Well, kids also go through neurogenesis, I think. I'm not quite sure, but the point is that I learned a lot.
From today onwards, I'm thinking to restart my Wim Hof breathing and early morning cold baths. I also want to try out ice baths, which I wasn't able to experience in my previous world. During this time in this world, I tried to write down as many things as I remember from my previous world. I also attempted to integrate the knowledge from this world into my previous world's wisdom, but I still have a long way to go.
Thinking about how different breathing techniques could affect my body in this world, my mind started to race with possibilities. I haven't tried any of them, but since this world has magic, I believe I can improve my physique tremendously.
*'Splash.'*
"Here, young master, now you're ready," Esme said, interrupting my thoughts as she cleaned me up. Yet, my eyes couldn't help but wander around her, appreciating her curves, even though I knew it was inappropriate.
"Three days from now, you'll have your fifth birthday, young master."
Oh yeah, my birthday. My family celebrated each of my birthdays, and the whole townspeople got to enjoy amazing food. But I think this time, it'll be grander.
"Well, I'm not that excited," I said, trying to sound nonchalant.
"Why?" my mother inquired.
"I'm much more interested in improving my abilities," I replied, keeping my more inappropriate thoughts to myself.
"You should try to be friends with kids around your age," my mother suggested.
"I'll try that."
---
After bathing, I joined my family for a meal, although my father wasn't present.
"You'll get a magic teacher on your birthday," my mother announced.
"Wow, they give teachers as gifts, what a weird thing to do," I remarked, my curiosity piqued.
"Is that my birthday gift, Mom?" I asked, genuinely intrigued.
"Why would you think that?" Elara replied, looking surprised by my question, unaware of my deeper musings.
---
The day of my fifth birthday finally dawned, and the town was abuzz with excitement. Decorations adorned every nook and cranny, and the aroma of freshly baked treats wafted through the air. The Shadowmere household was alive with chatter and laughter as guests from the town gathered to celebrate.
Amidst the festive chaos, my mother approached, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Kael, come with me," she said, leading me to a small, dimly lit room in the depths of our home.
Inside, an elderly mage, Master Elden, stood, his robes adorned with faded symbols. He regarded me with a mix of scrutiny and amusement. "So, you're the young one eager to learn magic," he grunted, sizing me up.
I nodded, trying to hide my excitement. "Yes, Master Elden. I'm ready to start."
"Let's not waste time then," he said, his tone gruff. "We'll begin with the basics."
And so, my magical education commenced. Master Elden's lessons were tough, filled with cryptic chants and bizarre hand movements. I struggled, my attempts at casting spells often resulting in comical mishaps that had both Master Elden and me laughing.
In the evenings, I'd meet with Esme, my loyal maid, in the courtyard. "How's your magical escapade going, young master?" she teased, her eyes twinkling mischievously.
I rolled my eyes. "Master Elden's spells are like trying to decipher chicken scratch. But I'll get the hang of it."
Esme chuckled, her laughter infectious. "I have no doubt. You're a quick learner, even with this... challenging material."
As the days passed, Master Elden's lessons became more intricate, delving into the complexities of elemental magic. "Focus, boy! You can't tame fire with a distracted mind," he barked, watching me struggle to conjure flames.
"I'm trying, Master Elden!" I protested, sweat trickling down my brow.
Meanwhile, Esme had her own wisdom to share. "Maybe you should try talking to the elements like they're your friends. Who knows, they might listen better if you sweet-talk them a bit," she suggested, a playful glint in her eyes.
In the evenings, after my magical ordeals, I'd join my family for dinner. "You'll need to master a powerful spell for your birthday feast," my mother announced, her eyes twinkling with excitement.
"Can I turn carrots into cake?" I joked, earning a chuckle from my father.
"Maybe start with not setting the tablecloth on fire," he teased, ruffling my hair.