Alex felt a gentle shake on his shoulder, pulling him from the deep, restless sleep he'd fallen into. His eyes blinked open, adjusting to the fading light outside. Bartlow stood over him, his voice calm but firm.
"Wake up, Alex," Bartlow said. "We've arrived."
Still groggy, Alex sat up, rubbing his tired eyes. His body ached from the long journey, but as he shifted his gaze beyond the wagon, something caught his attention—a large gate ahead, marking the entrance to Mane Manor.
The estate was far more than Alex had ever imagined, though not as grand as the stories he'd heard of noble families. The wrought-iron gate was tall and sturdy, adorned with modest but elegant detailing—enough to display the family's noble status without excessive show. Beyond the gate, the stone manor house loomed in the distance, impressive yet restrained. It stood solid and respectable, with a two-story structure of clean, angular lines. The stone walls were a light gray, weathered by time but well-kept, and small ivy tendrils clung to parts of the building, adding a touch of character.
The grounds were well-maintained but practical—gravel paths that led through simple yet well-tended gardens, dotted with a few statues of past barons and basic fountains. There were no sprawling hedges or towering sculptures, but the manor exuded a sense of stability and purpose, reflecting its owners' careful balance of wealth and responsibility.
Alex stared, his heart skipping a beat as they approached the gates.
Bartlow glanced at him, noticing the wonder in his eyes. "It's not the grandest estate," he said, "but it's home to the Mane family. A baron's estate is more practical than ostentatious—suitable for their rank. You'll see soon enough."
Alex nodded, his gaze fixed on the estate as the gates opened with a slow, creaking sound. The carriage rolled forward, carrying them down the gravel path toward the manor. Despite its more modest appearance, the size and importance of the estate still overwhelmed him. This place was nothing like the city he had grown up in.
As they passed through the gate, Alex couldn't help but feel a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty. Mane Manor was no grand castle, but it represented power—something he had never been close to before. The gate closed behind them with a dull thud, and with it, any lingering sense of familiarity slipped away.
Lucas scoffed lightly, his pride evident as he responded to Bartlow's words. "The Mane family may be a baron house, but we're the strongest baron house the Godsent kingdom has to offer," he said, his tone laced with confidence. He cast a glance at Alex, a challenge flickering in his eyes, as though daring him to question his statement.
Alex remained silent, unsure of how to respond. The politics of nobility were foreign to him, and Lucas's bold claim felt distant, a world he had yet to fully understand.
Emily, seated beside her brother, sighed quietly, almost imperceptibly. While Lucas reveled in the pride of their family's legacy, her thoughts were heavier, more complicated. She lowered her gaze to her lap, her fingers absentmindedly twisting the fabric of her dress. She understood all too well that the Mane family's situation wasn't as solid as Lucas liked to believe.
A sharp ache pulsed in her chest—a reminder of what awaited her. She was a tool in the greater game of noble politics, and soon, she would be assigned to a noble husband. The marriage would not be for love, but for power—an alliance to secure the Mane family's standing through a union with someone higher in status. It was a duty she had always known would come, but knowing it was drawing closer brought a wave of quiet sorrow that she kept hidden behind a composed facade.
The weight of her future felt crushing, a burden she bore alone, especially when Lucas spoke so proudly of their family's strength. He might not see it, but she knew the reality—her fate was sealed by decisions made far above her, her worth measured not by her own desires but by the benefits she could bring to the Mane name.
Her sigh deepened, though she kept her silence. The road ahead was uncertain, but not because of her brother's vision of family glory—no, it was the uncertainty of her own future, bound to a marriage she had no say in.
The carriage rattled along the path, the weight of Lucas's boast hanging in the air. But the true weight Emily carried was invisible, resting quietly beneath her composed exterior.
As the carriage looped toward the entrance of the Mane estate, Alex's eyes were drawn to the woman standing at the entrance, waiting for their arrival. Lady Mane, despite her shorter stature, exuded an undeniable presence. Her pale complexion seemed to catch the fading light, emitting a soft glow that radiated both pride and honor. There was a regal air about her—something both commanding and graceful.
Alex found himself momentarily taken aback. There was something about her aura that demanded respect, her elegant posture accentuated by the noble way she carried herself. But beyond her dignified demeanor, it was impossible not to notice her impressive figure. Her gown, tailored to perfection, highlighted her form, leaving little room for the imagination for those who might steal a glance.
For Alex, though, it wasn't just her appearance that caught his attention—it was the authority she seemed to hold effortlessly, the way her presence filled the space around her. There was strength in her gaze, a sharpness that reminded him that, beneath the noblewoman's exterior, lay a leader who had built the legacy of the Mane family. She had no need for words to command the attention of those around her.
As the carriage drew closer, Lady Mane's eyes locked briefly with Alex's, and in that fleeting moment, he could sense the depth of her character. She was more than the head of the household—she was the cornerstone of the Mane family's strength, a strength Alex would soon have to navigate.
Alex watched Bartlow bow respectfully before Lady Mane. After embracing her children, Lady Mane's eyes found Alex. She paused for a moment, studying him. The intensity of her gaze unsettled him, but without hesitation, he decided to follow Bartlow's lead, bowing stiffly.
"Good… good evening," Alex stammered. "I am Alex Seraphic, Master Bartlow's student. I hope you would accept my application to serve the Mane household while I am under Master Bartlow's teachings." Though his voice wavered, there was an unmistakable resolve behind his words.
Bartlow, taken slightly by surprise at Alex's forthrightness, chuckled warmly, breaking the momentary tension. He gave Lady Mane a respectful nod, speaking with the same confidence he always carried.
"Yes, Lady Mane. I have taken young Sir Alex under my wing for cultivation training. I believe he has potential."
Lady Mane's smile, though gracious, didn't entirely reach her eyes as she looked at Alex. Her gaze, though kind, lingered a moment too long, as though calculating the unspoken implications of this arrangement. It wasn't just Alex's sudden appearance that caused hesitation; practical matters were weighing on her mind. Taking in another servant—especially with the household's tight budget—was no small decision. The Mane family's finances were already stretched, but this was something she couldn't voice in front of her children.
Bartlow, perceptive as always, understood her hesitation. Without a word spoken between them, he knew the thoughts swirling behind her composed exterior. He gave her a subtle nod, silently reassuring her that he understood the strain. His eyes briefly caught hers, acknowledging the shared burden, yet making it clear that Alex would not add to the family's financial strain in any visible way.
Lady Mane, reading Bartlow's unspoken promise, let her shoulders relax slightly. The weight of her worry remained, but she trusted Bartlow's discretion. After all, he had always looked after the family's interests, even in delicate matters like this.
"Well, Bartlow," she said, her voice warm but carrying an undertone of her deeper concerns, "if you speak so highly of him, then I trust your judgment. Let him be seen by our healer, and once he's settled, make sure he becomes familiar with our household. I'll leave it in your hands."
"Of course, Lady Mane," Bartlow replied with a respectful bow.
Alex, though still jittery, breathed a quiet sigh of relief.
After exchanging pleasantries with Lady Mane, Bartlow led Alex through the corridors of the manor. As they walked, Alex couldn't help but admire the interior. Though not overly extravagant, the décor spoke of quiet wealth—a far cry from the luxury of higher nobility, yet undeniably impressive for a baron's household. Ornate tapestries adorned the walls, and polished wooden furniture gave the manor a sense of warmth and heritage. Everything exuded a subtle elegance, reminding Alex that this was a place of status, even if it was a modest one in comparison to other noble homes.
They passed several servants who politely bowed as Bartlow led the way, all of them seemingly accustomed to the grandeur of the estate. Alex, on the other hand, found himself a little awestruck. He had never been in such a place before, and though he had expected something grander, the understated elegance of the Mane manor still left an impression.
"We'll make a stop here," Bartlow said, leading Alex into a quieter wing of the manor. They approached a room marked with a small, subtle sign: Infirmary. "Our first stop is to get you checked out by the house healer."
Inside, a woman greeted them. She stood about 5'8", with a curvy figure and light brown skin. She wore a doctor's uniform, her glasses resting on the bridge of her nose as she approached them with a professional yet warm demeanor.
"Ah, Sir Bartlow," she said, offering a smile. "And you must be Alex. I'm Rebecca Newman, but everyone here just calls me 'Doc.'"
Alex, stiff and unsure how to react to the friendly healer, simply nodded, trying to match her casual approach.
Rebecca eyed Alex for a moment, noticing the tension in his posture. "Come on over to the cot, and we'll get you checked out," she said, her tone gentle but direct. "It's just a routine evaluation. I need to make sure you're in good health and document any injuries or scars."
Alex hesitated but followed her instructions, sitting down on the cot. Rebecca could sense his unease, but her expression remained calm. She turned to Bartlow. "Do you mind stepping out for a bit? This won't take long."
Bartlow gave a slight bow. "Of course. I'll be right outside."
Once Bartlow was gone, Rebecca's tone softened further. "It's all right, Alex. This won't hurt. I'll be using Healer's Insight to check for any underlying issues. It's just a bit of spirit energy, nothing invasive."
Alex nodded as Rebecca gently placed her hands near his side, focusing her spirit energy into him. A moment later, her brow furrowed. "Well… you're certainly not in bad shape, but there's more here than meets the eye."
She stepped back, surprised. "You're a beginner stage cultivator in all three realms—body, mana, and spirit. That's unusual for someone your age."
Alex blinked, confused by her sudden shift in tone. "Is… is that bad?"
"Bad? No," Rebecca said, still astonished. "It's impressive. How old are you?"
"I'm fifteen," Alex replied. "I only became a cultivator yesterday."
Rebecca nearly dropped her clipboard in shock. "Yesterday? And you're already at the beginner stage in all three realms? That's remarkable. Most talented individuals don't even start cultivation until they're at least eighteen. By all measures, you're a genius." She paused, her voice softening. "Although… your bone age says you're sixteen."
Alex sighed, feeling a mixture of pride and exhaustion. "I appreciate your insight, but I'll just do my best to make the Mane family proud."
Rebecca smiled widely, chuckling lightly. "That's good to hear, Alex. Keep that attitude, and you'll go far. Now," she continued, "I need to do a physical evaluation. Don't worry—you can keep your underwear on. I just need to check for injuries and document any scars or distinguishing marks. It's important for us to know in case… well, in case anything happens."
Alex hesitated, lowering his gaze. "Is it really necessary?"
Rebecca, sensing his discomfort, chuckled gently, though her tone turned serious. "Yes, it is. Cultivation is thrilling, but it's also dangerous. We need to be prepared for any situation. It's better to do this now rather than when it's too late."
Reluctantly, Alex stood up and began undressing, leaving his undergarments on. When he told her he was ready, Rebecca moved the privacy sheet aside—and gasped softly. His torso and legs were covered in scars and burn marks, each one telling a story of pain and survival.
Alex struggled to keep his emotions in check, feeling the weight of her gaze. His throat tightened, but he fought back the tears, determined not to show weakness.
Rebecca, noticing his silent struggle, was more careful as she examined each mark, gently touching the scars and meticulously documenting them. When she finished, she gave him a soft smile. "You know, Alex… I'm not just a healer. I'm here if you ever need someone to talk to—about anything. Healing isn't just about the body."
Alex managed a small, wry smile. "Thank you, Miss Rebecca. I'll remember that."
As her eyes scanned his fresh injuries from the mountain lion attack, Rebecca's expression shifted to concern. "Who healed you?" she asked. "The work isn't bad, but it could be better. Let me fix it."
Before Alex could reply, Rebecca placed her hand on his side and concentrated. Warmth spread through his body as the phantom pain subsided, leaving him in a state of relief. He stared at her in amazement.
Rebecca laughed softly. "Like I said, I could definitely do better. But whoever healed you… well, it must've been someone new. Judging by the scarring, you should be thanking them for doing what they could."
Alex, still confused, spoke without thinking. "I did it myself… It was the best I could manage with the mana I had left."
Rebecca froze, her eyes widening. "You did?" she asked, her voice filled with disbelief. "How… how could you know a basic healing spell without formal training?" She thought for a moment, and then it clicked. No wonder Bartlow is so eager to train this young man, she mused. If he keeps progressing at this rate, he might even reach Bartlow's level one day.
Returning to the present, Rebecca gave him a more composed look. "Well, we're all done here. You can go meet Sir Bartlow outside—he's probably waiting for you."
Alex nodded, quickly redressing before stepping out of the infirmary.
Bartlow waved him over, and as Alex approached, he noticed Bartlow speaking with a young woman named Ruth. She appeared to be around seventeen, with dark skin, rosy red lips, long legs, and a petite build. Her eyes widened slightly as Alex drew closer, her gaze lingering on his features—his strong jawline and vibrant eyes, framed by his dark curls. There was a soft admiration in her eyes, though she tried to keep her expression neutral.
Bartlow, noticing Ruth's reaction, sighed inwardly. This young man's going to stir more trouble than I anticipated.
"Young Alex, this is Miss Ruth," Bartlow introduced, his tone formal but light. "She'll be responsible for training you in your day-to-day duties as a butler and guiding you through life in the Mane household."
Ruth quickly composed herself, offering a polite smile. "It's nice to meet you, Sir Alex," she said, her voice professional though a hint of warmth lingered in her eyes.
"If you have any questions about your training or the rules for living in the manor, don't hesitate to ask her. She knows the ins and outs better than most," Bartlow added.
Alex nodded, feeling a little more settled. "Thank you, Miss Ruth," he said with a slight bow, ready to take on the responsibilities ahead.
As Bartlow watched the interaction between the two, a wry smile tugged at the corner of his lips. This might be more of a challenge than I originally thought, he mused, but kept the thought to himself.
Before heading off to his quarters, Bartlow paused and turned back to Alex. "One last thing before I go—don't stay up too late. Tomorrow, you officially begin your duties as a butler for the Mane family, and once you're done with your shift, you'll be training with me on your cultivation journey. So get your rest. You're going to need it."
Alex nodded, taking in the warning. "Understood, Master Bartlow," he replied, but as he lifted his head to bid Bartlow goodnight, the man had already vanished from sight. Confused, Alex blinked, not quite sure how to react.
Ruth, who had been standing nearby, noticed his bewildered expression and let out a light laugh. "He does that all the time. You'll get used to it," she said, smiling warmly. "Come on, I'll show you to your quarters. It's just across the hall from my room, so you won't have any trouble finding it."
Alex, still a little disoriented by Bartlow's sudden disappearance, followed Ruth down the hallway. His thoughts swirled, trying to piece together everything that had happened in the last few days. When they reached his door, Ruth gave him a knowing look, sensing his unease.
"You can learn a lot from Sir Bartlow," she said, her tone gentle but encouraging. "But for now, you should get some rest. Tomorrow is going to be a long day, and you'll need your strength."
She opened the door to his room and stepped aside. "Here we are. I'll wake you in the morning. Your clothes are in the closet, and if you need anything else, just let me know. We'll get up a little earlier tomorrow in case there's anything else you need before we start work."
Alex smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Miss Ruth. I appreciate your kindness."
Ruth returned the smile, her expression softening. "Get some rest, Alex. Goodnight."
"Goodnight," Alex echoed as he stepped into his quarters. He closed the door behind him and looked around in awe. The room, though not overly lavish, was still far more than he had ever been used to. The bed was modest but large enough to fit him comfortably, and the furnishings—while simple—were sturdy and of good quality. It felt surreal having a room to himself for the first time in his life.
He ran a hand through his hair and sighed, feeling the weight of the past few days settle over him. Everything had happened so fast, from the chaos in the woods to finding himself at the doorstep of the Mane family. Stretching and yawning, Alex realized just how tired he was. He climbed into bed, sinking into the soft mattress.
As his thoughts drifted, he remembered what Rebecca had done earlier—how she had healed his wounds so effortlessly. Curious, he focused on the system that had saved his life. "System," he called in his mind, "are there any skills I can unlock, like the healing Rebecca did on me?"
The familiar, soft chime of the system activated in his mind, followed by the text that appeared before him:
Divine God System: Skills Available
Divine Insight: Grants the host the ability to foresee the stats and information of those around him.
Cost: 1 system point
Mana Cost: None
Warning: Continued use without further upgrades will degrade the eyes of the host until the skill is upgraded or eyesight is permanently lost.
Alex's eyes widened as he read the description. "That's… an incredible ability," he murmured. The fact that it required no mana made it even more tempting, though the risk of using it without upgrading was concerning.
Still, the usefulness of such a skill, especially in the world he was about to enter, far outweighed the risk—so long as he used it sparingly. "This could be exactly what I need, especially with everything coming up," Alex thought.
"System, purchase Divine Insight," Alex said in his mind, deciding to take the leap.
The system chimed again, and a brief message flashed before him:
Congratulations! Divine Insight has been successfully purchased.
A small surge of energy flowed through Alex's body, centering in his eyes. He blinked, feeling a faint warmth behind his eyelids. It wasn't painful, just… different.
Lying back down, Alex let the excitement simmer, knowing that he had taken another step toward becoming stronger. Tomorrow would be a new chapter—a day that would test his resolve, his endurance, and the skills he had yet to fully master.
But for now, sleep called, and Alex knew he needed it.
With a final yawn, he closed his eyes, letting the exhaustion take over, and his last thoughts focused on what lay ahead.