Ethan woke to the gentle warmth of the morning sun streaming through the windows of his room, casting a golden glow over the simple yet inviting space. His bed, adorned with soft linens and plush pillows, beckoned him to linger a moment longer in its comforting embrace.
As he stretched and rubbed the sleep from his eyes, Ethan's gaze swept across the room, taking in the familiar sights that greeted him each morning. The walls, painted a soothing shade of sky blue, were adorned with framed sketches and paintings, each one a testament to Ethan's love of art and creativity. A sturdy wooden desk sat against one wall, cluttered with books, scrolls, and various trinkets collected over the years.
A small window nestled between two bookshelves allowed a gentle breeze to waft through the room, carrying with it the scent of freshly blooming flowers from the castle gardens below. Ethan breathed in deeply, savoring the sweet aroma as he relished the tranquility of the early morning hours.
Today was the day Ethan had been eagerly anticipating for weeks - the start of his training sessions with his parents. He couldn't wait to begin learning the ways of combat, both armed and unarmed, as well as the other skills essential for a young nobleman.
As Ethan pondered the adventures that lay ahead, a soft knock sounded at his door, followed by the familiar voice of Mary, the maid who had been chasing him through the corridors earlier. "Young master, it's time for you to get ready," she called out, her tone gentle but firm.
Ethan smiled to himself, knowing that Mary's no-nonsense demeanor belied her genuine care and concern for his well-being. "I am coming, Mary," he replied, his voice filled with warmth and respect.
With a final glance around his room, Ethan rose from his bed and began to prepare for the day ahead. He washed and dressed quickly, opting for a simple ensemble of a plain full t-shirt in soothing shades of azure blue, paired with comfortable trousers in a complementary shade of earthy brown.
As he made his way through the corridors towards the dining hall, Mary followed close behind, her brisk footsteps echoing off the stone walls. Along the way, Ethan was greeted by the familiar faces of the servants who tended to the castle's daily needs, their smiles and well-wishes filling him with a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
"Good morning, Master Ethan," one servant called out, bowing respectfully as Ethan passed by.
"Good morning to you too," Ethan replied, returning the greeting with a friendly nod.
As they reached the dining hall, Ethan's heart swelled with anticipation at the sight of his parents already seated at the table, engaged in conversation with the head butler and the two knights, James and Anderson, who would oversee his physical training.
His father, Lord Marcus, was dressed in regal attire befitting his status as the lord of the castle, his posture erect and his expression grave as he discussed the pressing matters of the realm. His mother, Lady Elara, sat beside him, her elegant attire and graceful demeanor a testament to her noble lineage.
As Ethan entered the room, all five of them turned to greet him, their expressions warm and welcoming.
"Good morning, Ethan," his father said, a proud smile gracing his features as he gestured for Ethan to join them at the table.
"Good morning, Father, Mother," Ethan replied, his voice filled with affection as he approached.
His mother reached out to tousle his hair affectionately, her eyes shining with maternal pride. "Good morning, my dear. Did you sleep well?"
"Yes, Mother," Ethan replied, his smile widening at her touch. "I'm ready for the day ahead."
As he settled into his seat, Mary approached with a tray laden with food, setting it before Ethan with a gentle smile. "Your breakfast, young master," she said, her voice warm and motherly.
"Thank you, Mary," Ethan replied, his gratitude evident in his tone as he began to eat his meal.
As they ate, Lord Marcus turned to Ethan, his expression serious but kind. "Ethan, I want you to know that James and Anderson will be overseeing your physical training from now on," he said, his voice tinged with authority.
James and Anderson nodded in agreement, their expressions stern but supportive. "We expect nothing but your best, young master," James said, his voice firm but encouraging.
"And remember, Ethan," Lady Elara interjected, her tone gentle but firm, "don't push yourself too hard. It's important to take breaks and listen to your body."
Lord Marcus, however, was quick to interject, his tone firm and unwavering. "Nonsense, Elara. Ethan needs to be pushed if he's to become a fine warrior like his ancestors. We can't afford to coddle him."
Ethan, sensing the tension between his parents, gently interjected, "Father, Mother, I promise to give my best effort and take care of myself." His earnest words seemed to dissolve the tension in the room, and both Lord Marcus and Lady Elara exchanged a proud glance.
"We're delighted to hear that, Ethan," Lady Elara said, her voice softening with maternal warmth. "Your well-being is our utmost priority."
Lord Marcus nodded in agreement, a hint of pride in his eyes. "Indeed, Ethan. We have every confidence in you."
Ethan smiled, feeling a surge of gratitude for his parents' support. "Thank you, Father, Mother."
Lady Elara glanced around the table and then turned to Ethan. "Are you finished with your breakfast, dear? It's time for your study session."
"Yes, Mother," Ethan replied, rising from his seat. "I'm ready."
Together, Ethan and his mother made their way to the library. As the heavy wooden gate creaked open, Ethan's eyes widened in awe at the sight that greeted him. The library was a vast chamber, lined with shelves upon shelves of ancient tomes and manuscripts. The room exuded an aura of wisdom and history, with intricate tapestries adorning the walls and a grand chandelier casting a warm glow overhead.
At the center of the room stood a sturdy oak table, flanked by two ornately carved chairs. Lady Elara led Ethan to one of the chairs and gestured for him to sit. "Shall we begin, Ethan?"
Ethan nodded eagerly, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Yes, Mother."