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Chapter 8 - Zias meets Nathan Raven-I

Zias was having his breakfast in a lavishly decorated room, a setting more opulent than he had ever experienced. He had barely eaten half of his meal, his anticipation growing with each passing second as he waited for his grandfather, Nathan Raven, the Duke of Information and Ties. Maria had briefed him on Nathan's role and reputation.

Soon, a tall figure with greyish-blond hair appeared before Zias, causing a moment of panic. "So you are my grandson," Nathan stated, his tone devoid of emotion. Zias, still taken aback by the sudden revelation, collected himself and replied, "Yes, I am Zias Alverian," attempting to project confidence.

"Pretending to be confident and being one is different, child," Nathan remarked, a barely visible smile on his face. Zias couldn't help but feel slightly irritated as his façade was effortlessly seen through.

"I am starting to think this world is not easy," Zias thought to himself, recalling his frustration from the days when he disliked novels with smart protagonists and naive characters.

"Without strength, there is no confidence, grandfather, and I don't have strength," Zias asserted firmly, genuinely believing in that principle.

"I see you know your shortcomings at such a young age," Nathan responded with genuine surprise, recognizing a level of self-awareness in Zias that even adults sometimes lacked. Nathan, however, held a distinct opinion about Zias, fearing that his daughter's overprotectiveness might spoil him rather than his own parenting shortcomings.

"But I know nothing about this world; my mother kept me hidden from the laws and news of this world," Zias explained, revealing his sheltered upbringing.

"What do you want to know about this world, Zias?" Nathan asked, still surprised by Zias's earnestness.

"How can so many beings coexist in this world? How can humans be seen on an equal footing with magical beings? How do humans obtain the strength they need to fend off these beings?" Zias questioned, his curiosity mixed with a myriad of emotions.

"Why do you think I will answer all your questions? Is it because I am your grandfather?" Nathan asked, a smile now evident on his face.

"No, because I wish to learn from you. No information in this world escapes you, is what my maid told me," Zias replied honestly.

"I see, so a request. Which means I have the right to deny?" Nathan said, his smile not showing any signs of subsiding, much to Zias's discomfort.

"I will play your game then," Zias thought, realizing the subtle power play in Nathan's words. "It is a request, and you can deny it, grandfather," Zias said firmly.

"But I can always go back to my mother with a sad face, which is a problem," Zias added with a growing smile. He knew that Nathan Raven had only one daughter, his mother, who was known for her controlling yet affectionate nature.

"You are wicked for your age, kid," Nathan remarked, his smile slowly turning into a slight frown.

"I am shameless when it comes to gaining knowledge and strength, grandfather," Zias admitted, acknowledging his determined pursuit.

"Very well, I will tell you. But as your teacher, not as your grandfather," Nathan declared.

"I accept, teacher," Zias responded with a smile on his face.

Nathan began to unravel the secrets of Eldoria, explaining the existence of five kingdoms. However, his revelation was interrupted by Zias's sharp observation. "You said there are five kingdoms," Zias questioned, displaying his keen intellect.

"You are right. But this is not information known to the common people or royalties. Only a few people are privy to it," Nathan explained, observing Zias's amused face.

"And you are one of them, grandfather," Zias exclaimed, his curiosity evident.

"Yes, it's valuable information," Nathan confirmed, still studying Zias's face filled with anticipation.

"Valuable information comes with a price, kid," Nathan remarked, dampening Zias's anticipation.

"What is the price?" Zias asked, his curiosity intensifying, eager to uncover the mysteries of Eldoria.