7:30 PM
Golden Fields Region, Verdant Haven
Réel Residence
Aubert and Maurice are currently eating dinner after Aubert's first magic training.
Munch!
Aubert unintentionally ate loudly as he savored the Roasted Ham Maurice cooked.
Maurice paused mid-bite; his attention drawn to the loud munching sounds emanating from across the table. In Verdant Haven, where magical etiquette was highly valued, loud munching was considered impolite and lacked refinement.
"Aubert," Maurice began gently, setting down his fork, "in our society, it's customary to eat more quietly. Munching loudly can be considered rude."
Aubert looked up from his plate, his brow furrowing in confusion. He hadn't realized that his eating habits might be seen as disrespectful.
"Why is munching loudly rude, Papa?" Aubert inquired, his curiosity piqued by Maurice's explanation.
Maurice took a moment to consider how best to explain the cultural norms to Aubert.
"In Verdant Haven, we believe that eating should be a respectful and mindful activity. Loud munching can be disruptive to others and may distract from the enjoyment of the meal," Maurice explained patiently.
He continued, "It's important to be mindful of our manners, especially during meals, as it shows respect for the food we're given and for those around us."
Aubert nodded, understanding dawning on his face as he absorbed Maurice's words. He made a mental note to be more mindful of his eating habits in the future, eager to uphold the traditions of Verdant Haven.
Ring!
The sound of Maurice's Commlink ringing disrupted the peaceful ambiance of the dining room. Setting aside his meal, Maurice rose from the table and retrieved the device from the nearby shelf.
Upon glancing at the illuminated screen, he noted the caller ID displaying Ignatius Flambeau's name. Ignatius, known for his connections and event-planning expertise, often brought intriguing opportunities to Maurice's attention.
With a curious yet composed demeanor, Maurice accepted the call and brought the Commlink to his ear.
"Monsieur Ignatius, why the late call? Is there a last-minute event booking?"
"Maurice, my dear friend, you won't believe the opportunity that's come knocking. There's a charity ball being organized by a prominent resident in our neighborhood—a sweet, elderly lady known for her culinary prowess and artistic talents. She's expressed a keen interest in having you grace the event with your magical performances."
Maurice's interest was piqued as he listened to Ignatius's description of the event and its host. He weighed the potential benefits of participating in such an occasion.
"Intriguing, Ignatius. What's the compensation like for this event?"
"She's offering a handsome sum of 50,000 Camillium Coins, Maurice. And let me tell you, the guest list is brimming with affluent and influential figures. They'll be eager to shower you with even more wealth if you captivate them with your magic."
Ignatius, known for his shrewd opportunism and knack for recognizing profitable ventures, seized every chance to capitalize on advantageous situations. His astute eye for lucrative prospects was a defining trait, ensuring he never missed an opportunity to strike when the iron was hot.
"I see, I'll accept it. When and where will this event take place?"
After hearing the huge pay, Maurice couldn't help but to accept the offer.
"Brilliant! The ball is in five days, at 1348, High Street, Emerald Coastlines. You have to be there at 8 pm on the 2nd, okay? It will be a grand affair, and your job is to entertain everyone there."
In Verdant Haven, the nation is divided into five distinct regions: Verdant Haven City, situated centrally; the Greenwood Region to the north; the Golden Fields Region to the south; the Emerald Coastlines to the west; and the Misty Peaks to the east. Each region contributes to the diverse tapestry of Verdant Haven's cultural and geographical landscape.
"I'll be there, don't worry."
"Great! See you tomorrow!"
Ignatius concluded the call, his voice brimmed with enthusiasm.
Maurice sighed and returned to his seat, contemplating the upcoming event.
Meanwhile, Aubert, who had overheard their conversation, couldn't help but wonder about his father's involvement. 'Papa is going to a party? Entertain?'
Unable to contain his interest, Aubert decided to inquire, "Papa, what do you mean by entertain and party?"
Maurice smiled warmly at Aubert's question, appreciating his son's curiosity.
'Perhaps it's time to tell Aubert about the Réels,'
The Réels were not just a powerful family of Magicians; they were also renowned as showmen, and entertainers who captivated audiences with their magical performances.
Although Aubert was only five years old, Maurice believed that it wouldn't hurt to share this aspect of their family history with him now. It was a legacy that Aubert would eventually inherit, and Maurice wanted him to understand its significance.
"You see, Aubert, our family, the Réels, we're not just ordinary magicians," Maurice began, his voice carrying a hint of pride. "We're also known as showmen."
"Showmen? What does that mean, Papa?"
Maurice chuckled softly, "Being showmen means we entertain people, Aubert. We use our magic to create performances that amaze and delight audiences."
Aubert's interest piqued even further. "Like magic shows?"
"Yes, exactly!" Maurice nodded, pleased that Aubert was catching on. "We perform at events, parties, and gatherings, using our magic to bring joy and wonder to people's lives."
Maurice was once a professor at the prestigious magic academy, Verdant Arcanum. He retired from teaching as he wanted to continue the Réel legacy of being a Showman.
Knock! Knock!
They suddenly heard a knock from their front door.
Aubert and Maurice's conversation stopped and they both looked at the front door.
They were both wondering who would visit them at a time like this.
"Who is it?"
'It's me, Professor!"
They heard Dominic from the other side of the door.
Maurice paused, his attention diverted by the unexpected visitor at their door. Aubert's eyes widened with curiosity as they both wondered who could be visiting them at such an hour.
"Who is it?"
"It's me, Professor!"
They heard Dominic's familiar voice from the other side of the door.
Maurice went up from his seat to open the door while Aubert pouted and thought, 'This Dominic guy again, he's stealing Papa's attention!'
Seeing Dominic for the first time yesterday, Aubert had a hunch that he and Maurice were very close, and seeing them interact made Aubert feel a twinge of jealousy.
Creak!
Maurice swung the door open, revealing Dominic standing there with a box in his hands.
"Dominic, why did you come here this late?" Maurice inquired, his curiosity piqued.
"Well, I have a gift for Aubert."
Dominic displayed the box to Maurice with a little excitement.
Maurice's eyebrows arched in surprise, his initial skepticism giving way to a warm smile. He couldn't help but feel touched by Dominic's gesture, despite Aubert's declaration of him being his "enemy."
With a heartfelt nod, Maurice gestured for Dominic to come inside, his smile conveying gratitude for Dominic's thoughtfulness toward Aubert.
Dominic stepped inside, the box held securely in his hands. As he approached Aubert, who was still seated at the dining table, Aubert eyed him cautiously, his declaration of Dominic as his "enemy" still fresh in his mind.
However, Aubert's curiosity couldn't resist the allure of the mysterious box that Dominic presented to him. Dominic knelt beside Aubert, offering the box with a genuine smile, hoping to bridge the gap between them.
"Aubert, I brought you something."
Aubert's eyes widened with curiosity as he reached out to accept the gift. His initial reservations softened, replaced by a sense of intrigue and anticipation.
Slowly, he began to unwrap the box, his fingers trembling with excitement.
Maurice observed the interaction between Dominic and Aubert. He couldn't help but feel a surge of appreciation for Dominic's efforts to reach out to Aubert, despite the initial tension between them.
As Aubert opened the box, his eyes widened in surprise and delight at the sight of the contents nestled within. Inside, he discovered a staff with a crystal orb at the top, gently glowing in a friendly shade of red.
The staff was adorned with subtle, lovely patterns like swirling vines and soft geometric shapes.
Aubert's eyes brimmed with excitement.
"A staff!"
He held the staff with both hands and swung it around, showcasing his newfound magical tool.
Maurice and Dominic couldn't help but smile at Aubert's enthusiasm.
"Aubert, you should thank Dominic."
Maurice gently reminded him.
Aubert stopped swinging it around and looked at Dominic.
Dominic braced himself, unsure of what Aubert's response might be.
Aubert's eyes lit up with joy, he suddenly jumped off his chair and ran towards Dominic, wrapping his small arms around him in a tight hug.
"Thank you, Big Brother!"
Dominic was taken aback by the sudden display of affection, his surprise evident on his face.
The warmth of Aubert's embrace melted away any lingering thoughts of enmity that Aubert have harbored towards Dominic. The gift from Dominic had touched him deeply, erasing any doubts or suspicions he might have had.
At that moment, Aubert realized that Dominic wasn't an enemy but a friend who cared about him. The thoughtful gesture had touched his heart, making him feel valued and loved.
Dominic, overcome with emotion, returned Aubert's hug, his heart swelling with warmth at the genuine display of affection.
In that simple embrace, a bond of friendship and trust formed between them, solidifying their relationship as more than just acquaintances.
Maurice watched the heartwarming scene unfold with a smile, pleased to see Aubert embracing the kindness and goodwill extended to him.
At that moment, the gift had not only brought joy to Aubert but had also bridged the gap between him and Dominic, forging a connection that would endure through time.