Freya knew that a request like that would have to be forwarded to the Lord. Neither she nor Sylas were able to read or write, much less had books or papers for Bryn to learn.
"Sy, our Bryn is growing up. He will be much smarter than us. Do you know what he asked for his third birthday?" Said Freya as she laid in Sylas arms.
"How should I know? He always has difficult questions that I don't know the answer to. That kid's curiosity has no boundaries." he answered hugging her.
"He asked for us to teach him how to read and write!!" he answered uping her tone in exclamation.
Sylas hands stopped as his confused face looked at Freya's eyes. "He did what now?"
"Hahaha, His words were, "Can you teach me how to book?"..." She said.
"How are we supposed to teach him something we don't know ourselves? Also, why would he like to learn that? There are much more useful skills!" He continued as he bruched her hair.
"You can ask him tomorrow, I promised him to speak to you about it. We could ask the Lord, what do you think?"
"If the Lord was here, it would be possible. We would have to wait until he returns from Lumiur, if we ask Lady Isolde she will laugh at our request." Sylas pondered.
As Sylas spoke, Freya's face frowned. "Don't you dare ask that snake! We'll wait for the Lord… He is almost three now, Sy. It would be best for him to start working with you, outside the house. He gets bored in the very first hour there. It's difficult to keep him from doing something reckless." She said.
"I would love to! He can help a lot in the fields and with the animals. Also, he will learn a lot about nature. We'll start tomorrow… Now let's get some sleep, teaching him about the job will take all the energy I can get."
The next morning, Bryn was confident about his request. His parents might not know how important reading and writing can be, but he was sure to do all he could to learn. He was also ready to get his hands on a book today.
"Son, come on. Today, you start accompanying me to work." Patting Bryn on the shoulders.
"Why is that? I enjoy going with Mom to work." the kid countered.
"I know you don't like my job. I have seen your face while I go around the house cleaning and organizing." Freya interrupted as she got ready for work as well.
"But that was before, I love it now." - All that Bryn was thinking was, "I have to keep going to the house, or I won't get my hands on anything to read!"
"Son, it is already decided." Sylas planted his foot down ending the argument.
"Fine." Said bryn as his eyes roled upwards.
The start of the day was the opposite of his expectations. His chances to reach a book now were nonexistent.
Bryn tried to look at the bright side, he would learn things he never did even in his previous life. As a city man, he never had the chance to connect to nature as this world would likely demand.
Both father and son left their home for the stables.
"The first thing you will learn is to saddle a horse son. You still can't reach things to do it yourself, but we are going to need a horse today."
The stables were a simple structure. The first floor could contain about 8 horses. The upper floor held space to store the equipment needed to saddle the horses.
Inside there were 6 animals, the first two were the most imposing. As a 3-year-old, the horses were three to four times his size. Bryn had never seen such beautiful creatures. He lived his previous life in cities with almost no trips. Vacations or visits to farms and natural environments were none existent.
Sylas noticed the curiosity in his son's eyes and started to explain about the animals.
"These are our lord's horses specialized in helping us develop the land, Bryn. They are pure Shire Horses. Few horses are as special as them. Despite being very strong and big, they are not the most comfortable for us to ride. Because of their size, we are a little too small to be a good match. "
Bryn was still looking at the gigantic horses next to him.
"Next to them are the Lord's and Lady's traveling companions. Those are pure Thoroughbreds. We are not allowed to use them, only to feed and care for them. Lord Aric takes pride in his horses. He says they are one of the reasons he can take care of so much land around the region." Sylas continued.
"What is the difference between both horses, father?" Bryn asked.
"The Shires are strong and big, but also docile creatures. They are strong enough to pull equipment for farming the fields. Also, they are quite comfortable to ride for big people, but not as good if you have to travel long distances. The Lord's horses are much more incredible. They have an amazing balance of strength, speed, agility, and endurance. Balance could be bad if the status were all bad, but they are high in every way. Almost magical in some. Thoroughbreds are smart and instinctive animals as well."
"That's one of the cues I was waiting for since coming to this world."
"Almost magical! Are there magical animals' dad?" His speech almost rolled up on his tongue from the excitement behind his question.
"Yes there are, but for us, they are like legends. Adventurers battle magical beasts deep within the forest, seas, mountains, or deserts. It's said you can see such creatures in big cities or noble houses. Unfortunately, Lord Aric never bought a magical creature. He does not see the value of having a creature much more expensive than a good horse. "
Bryn's eyes were once again sparkling with the possibilities that were opening up for his future.
"I'll have to learn everything I can about animals and magical beasts as well. So many things to do, and I'm still a 3-year-old that can't do much." Bryn thought.
"Let's get to work, son."
The pair went on with their day. Sylas used the morning to move around the land with one of the older and worse horses in the stable. Bryn was getting a better understanding of the Lord's feud.
The land bordered a big mountain range, encompassing a few rivers and plains. Close to the mountains, the land was not good. There was not much possibility for farming or raising animals for consumption. The rivers helped with irrigation for crops and also as streams for cattle to drink from.
The main source of income for Lord Aric was selling the surplus of food for bigger centers.
Sylas explained he was responsible for taking care of all the animals. The job demanded strong will and attention. The land was huge and there were animals everywhere. Bryn could deduce some ways to improve his dad's work. He never worked in agriculture or livestock, so the first day was all about learning.
In the afternoon, Sylas and Bryn moved the cattle from one area of the farm to another. Bryn was able to see for the first time that an adult faun had an insane amount of mobility. His father did most of his work running and using the horse to help him herd the animals in any direction.
Bryn was learning so much that he didn't realize the day ended. When the sun started to set, Sylas returned to the stables.
"How was your day, Bryn?" Sylas was tired and sweaty, but his smile showed his most important feature regarding their day.
"Amazing, there is so much to learn about farming. I want to learn as much as possible with you, Father." Bryn's words offered Sylas warmth as he was afraid his son might not enjoy the work done in the fields. Still, the little confidence he had, now flourished.
"I knew it! All I had to do was introduce you to a proper day of work… Your mother told me you asked her to learn how to read and write. After today, do you still think that is something you should learn? There is not much use for you out here."
"So that is why he was so excited about every single question I asked today. He thinks that my birthday present would be useless." Bryn looked back at his father considering how he should answer.
"She already talked to you about it, good! Yes, I'm sure I want to learn how to read and write. There is a lot to gain from it, father, even for your work. We can use markings to manage the land and animals even better! That does not mean I do not wish to learn about nature and take proper care of the animals we raise here on the land."
"That should ease his mind a little."
"You sound much more like young lord Eamon than me or your mother, Bryn… What you requested is not up to us. We do not know how to read or write, nor did we ever see a need to. I'll have to request Lord Aric for permission and help. "
"I swear to you, father. I'll not let you down if you do."
"No need to be so serious about it, there will be many birthdays ahead and many things to learn. But don't be too sad if the Lord refuses."
"Thank you again, father."
As they arrived home, Freya was already there. The family had a simple dinner, as usual, a vegetable stew with old bread. Rare were the days with meat at the table, usually Sylas and Freya had the right for a chicken or a rabbit once a month. The vegetables were free for them to produce close to their house, so there was a constant supply.
The next morning, Bryn accompanied his father to work again. They took care of the cattle and moved some of the sheep to a different area as well. His father explained the importance of guiding the herd to the fields you want them on. If they stay for too long, they can destroy everything in the field. If you leave them in an area for too little, the plants and vegetation in the remaining places won't grow back.
Bryn realized that there were no fences to divide the areas on the farm that the animals should use. Making his father's work harder. Many ideas started to rise in his mind to improve the land.
The week passed in the blink of an eye.
Lord Aric was back from Lumiur and as usual, needed a report from Sylas about the development of the animals.
The day started usually started with Bryn and Sylas going to the stables. Today, his father went straight towards the mansion.
"Father, where are we going?"
"Today the Lord is back from his travels. We'll report to him about the week and if he is in a good mood we can also ask for your birthday present."
Bryn was enthusiastic about improving his chances to offer a better life. Reading and writing were a small step of the plan.
"Amazing, let me know what I can do to help."
"I swear that this child has no idea he is 3-years-old sometimes!" Sylas thought.
"Sure, son, I'll let you know."
As the mansion got closer, Sylas could see a few carriages in the distance. He recognized Lord Aric's carriage, but not the other two. Sylas knew that Lord Aric was a strict Lord, so he and Bryn waited together with Freya at the maid's entrance.
As time passed, the visits left and the lord asked for them.
Sylas entered the living room with Bryn walking next to him. The young faun was on the top of his game. Bryn knew, from his previous life, how relevant etiquette could be with important people.
Lord Aric looked a bit stressed. From Bryn's memory, he had aged faster than the 3 years that passed.
"Lord Aric, good morning sir. I wish your travels were fruitful. I'm here with my son Bryn, he is turning three in the coming week and has helping me out with fieldwork." Said Sylas as he kneeled down in one knee.
Bryn looked at his father and instantly followed.
"Hello Sylas, nice to meet you again, Bryn. You are growing fast, I see."
"Hello Lord Aric, thank you for your kind words. If I have, it is only thanks to my parents and your lordship."
"If there is anything I remember about history, nobles love people who boost them."
"I see your parents have been educating you in manners. Good. Sylas, report how are the animals."
"There is good news and bad news, sir. The good news is that the cattle are growing as expected, there were no sick ones this year and the herd looks healthy. The bad news is that they growing a bit fast. We may need to use part of the grain to feed them at this rate."
"Just what we needed, a perfect year for our livestock at the same time as a bad year for our crops. Is there anything we can do to keep them healthy without the use of our grains?"
"I'm not sure, sir. I can try."
"Separate a small part of the herd to try. If you see any rate of success during the next week or two, you let me know."
"Yes, my Lord. Thank you."
"That is all, Sylas. You can go now."
As Sylas was about to leave, Bryn held him by his pants. As their eyes met, Bryn was saying "Aren't you going to ask him for my birthday present".
"My Lord, there is one thing I would like to ask of you on behalf of my son Bryn."
"What is it Sylas, if it's not a stretch I'll see what I can do."
"My lord, Bryn has seen you many times working with books and scrolls. He asks us the opportunity to learn how to read and write. We believe you inspired him. I would like to ask you if it would be possible for him to learn from someone."
Lord Aric was an astute and seasoned noble. He knew the benefits one would have if reading and writing were on their repertoire. The relevance was small on villages or lands so far from the cities. But, once you go to metropolitan areas, those skills are much more valuable.
"Interesting request. Was this your request, or your parents are putting you up for it, Bryn?"
"Yes, my Lord. Ever since I saw you with a book in your hand, my mind can only imagine the messages and knowledge they contain." Bryn used all his conviction to try and pass his emotion towards Aric.
"He is a good child. Much smarter than many at his age… I only wished that we had a teacher for our kids here at the mansion. Until they reach the age to join any academy, their teachers are me and Isolde. I doubt she will be willing to teach a faun." The lord thought.
"I'll consider your request. That's all for today," he answered.
"Thank you, my Lord." both said.
Both father and son went back to their routine. Sylas had his work cut out for him. The mission to come up with ways to improve the food consumption rate of the cattle was not easy. He and Bryn stayed talking at the stables for some time before going to the fields and then home.
Meanwhile, at the house, Lord Aric couldn't recognize his wife anymore.
"Have you gone senile, Aric? You would like me to help teach a Faun how to read and write? You must have gone insane, that is the only explanation for this." She screamed.
Aric was serene, he tried a dialogue to start. "Sweetheart, faun or not, it could help us to have a servant who could read and organize documents for us. Who knows, when he grows up, he could even help us improve the rate at which we negotiate deals with merchants."
"Do you believe I would leave a faun to do deals in our stead? That is what we are here to do and our sons' and daughters future. It will never be in any servant's hands, much less a faun. They are a lesser species. Do you understand what lesser means?" She retorted.
"Isolde, we both know there are some fauns who are great at administrative work. Some even help craftsmen in big cities. Sylas is a good example, he can do the job of 3 men by himself in our fields."
"Exactly, in our fields. They are a lesser race, my dear. I will not teach someone incapable of learning. Incapable of understanding the meaning of what they are learning. I refuse to accept that you even asked me such a thing."
"Stop being so un…"
As the discussion was getting heated, the door opened. Rushing inside was Eamon, their son.
"Mother, Father. I finished my tasks for today. Is everything alright? I could hear you arguing."
"Everything is fine, Eamon." his father said.
"Everything is not fine. Can you believe your father asked me to teach the little faun how to read and write?"
"Wow, Freya and Sylas are amazing. I would never think they would like Bryn to read and write."
"The request was from Bryn himself my son. It was not Sylas or Freya's idea."
"I don't know if the idea having come from the 3-year-old makes it less or more idiotic."
"Interesting, he is only three years old but shows the desire to improve. I wish my baby brother had such a hunger for knowledge. All he likes to do is to run around and listen to stories and tales."
At his words, Lady Isolde was thrown over the edge. "Don't you compare your brother to that insignificant thing. They are worlds apart. The best faun wouldn't make half of your brother and sister on their worst day. You ever talk about them like that, and I'll punish you""
"Sorry Mother."
"I don't have the energy to spend on this. It would be best to forget about it" Aric thought.
"You win, Isolde. We won't teach the faun how to read or write. But that does not mean I'll forbid him to learn. Should Sylas and Freya find a way to teach him, I will not oppose."
"As if there was any way for him to learn other than for me to teach him. Good luck."
Lady Isolde was so rattled by the request that she left her husband and son without waiting for a reply.
"Father, are fauns a lesser species?"
"Eamon, the world is a strange and complicated place. Do you believe dragons are better, worse, or different from humans?"
"They are stronger. But I wouldn't say better. We can defeat them."
"The same logic applies to other species, animals, beasts. It is undeniable that humans are incredible. But, some of us are incapable of seeing other's potential as a good thing and not a threatening thing. Now let's go, it is time for us to eat."
Eamon is 14 years old now. His education had reached its peak before entering any academy. He desired to join the Royal Knights Academy, but the entrance was only allowed for 16-year-olds. He had to wait two more years.
Considering his curiosity, he decided to meet Bryn the next morning. Eamon's days were boring. After learning all the necessary topics, he only took care of his brother and sister. He could use some time far from the wings of his mother.
That night, the Wycliffes had a good rabbit for dinner. Lady Isolde and Lord Aric didn't speak with one another, and the children were silent as well.
In Bryn's house, the famous vegetable stew was the attraction. They celebrated Lord Aric's acceptance of Bryn's request.
When morning came, Sylas and Bryn had a surprise waiting for them at the stables. Eamon, the young lord, was waiting for them.
"Sylas, good morning! This must be Bryn, am I right?"
"Young Lord, what are you doing here? If you wished to ride, you could have asked someone to let me know, and I would take your horse to you!"
"Relax… I'm not here to ride a horse. I would like to meet your son, Bryn."
"Me? Why?" the young faun was startled.
"Bryn manners, show respect to the young Lord."
"This spoiled little brat wishes respect out of thin air. Only because he is the son of the Lord… I change worlds, but the worlds suck all the same…" was all Bryn could think.
"My apologies, young lord."
"Hahah, don't worry, Bryn. I'm here because I heard you need a teacher and I need something to do."
"Yes !! I would like to read and write, could you please teach me?" completely forgetting about manners, Bryn seem to be begging.
On the inside though, "Hmm, he may not be so useless. If he can pass me the education he receives as the heir of a Lord, I'm sure it will be useful."
"That's more like it. Good. From now on, I'll start accompanying you two to the fields. Once we are there, I'll learn about running the farm from Sylas while you learn from me."
"Young Lord Eamon, are sure it is ok? Lord Aric still hasn't said anything about Bryn learning how to read and write. I'm afraid about the repercussions if he is not ok."
"Don't you worry about my father. As you can imagine, my mother was absolute in refusing Bryn's request. As she is responsible for teaching me and my family such matters, Bryn would have no teacher. She doesn't believe fauns could nor should learn how to read and write. Still, my father said he would allow Bryn to learn if you or Freya find another way. So, are you in or out?"
"I'm in!!" said Bryn.