Two years had passed since Izzan began his physical training. Even though he was only five years old, he often helped his mother around the house, especially with lifting small items. Whenever there was an opportunity, Izzan would gallantly offer his assistance—even if his efforts sometimes led to more laughter than success.
Mira (asking for help): "Izzan, could you help me carry this basket of fruit to the kitchen?"
Izzan (enthusiastically): "Leave it to me, Mom! I'm strong!"
With great effort, Izzan lifted the basket of fruit, which wasn't too heavy, but to him, it seemed like a colossal burden. His small legs wobbled as he made his way toward the kitchen with determination, until suddenly...
Izzan (tripping): "Ahhh!"
He stumbled, and the basket of fruit fell right on top of his head, scattering apples and bananas all over the kitchen floor. Izzan lay there under the basket, smiling awkwardly.
Mira (chuckling, holding back laughter): "Oh dear, Izzan, you're too eager! Next time, take it slow, okay?"
Izzan (still under the basket, blushing): "Hehe… I just wanted to help, Mom!"
Neighbors passing by often laughed at Izzan's antics, always trying to look strong. He had become a bit of a local sensation in Solus Fortress, especially with his heroic, though often clumsy, attempts at helping.
Aldric's Plan to Teach Swordsmanship
Meanwhile, Aldric, Izzan's father, noticed how active and eager his son was every day. Secretly, he was eager to teach Izzan swordsmanship so that one day he could become a great knight. However, Aldric had one small problem: he was a little scared of his wife, Mira, who was very protective of Izzan.
One day, Aldric gathered the courage to speak to Mira about his desire. However, he did so rather awkwardly.
Aldric (scratching his head, awkwardly): "Um, honey… I've got a good idea for Izzan."
Mira (while folding laundry, not looking up): "Oh? What idea is that?"
Aldric (laughing nervously): "Well, you know… Izzan's growing up now. He's been training a lot on his own, and I thought… maybe it's time… maybe he could start learning, uh… swordsmanship."
Mira (raising an eyebrow, glancing at Aldric): "Swordsmanship? Izzan's only five, Aldric."
Aldric (trying to smile, but looking nervous): "Yes, but… I started learning swordsmanship at the same age. I thought, maybe… yeah, maybe we could start with light training? After all, he's been getting stronger carrying things around the house, right?"
Mira (thinking for a moment, holding a folded cloth): "Hmm… it's true, Izzan does practice a lot. But you know how I feel about weapons at a young age."
Aldric (sweating slightly, trying to smile again): "Yes, yes, I know, honey. But I promise, I'll teach him carefully. Just the basics, nothing dangerous. Maybe… we could start with posture training? He can begin there. Besides, he's bound to become a great knight one day, right?"
Mira (looking at Aldric, then smiling slightly): "You really want to train Izzan, don't you?"
Aldric (nodding quickly): "Yes, very much! Uh, I mean, yeah… I just think it would be good for him."
Mira (pretending to be serious): "I'll allow it… But if I hear Izzan crying because the training is too hard, you'll have to deal with me."
Aldric (swallowing, with a nervous smile): "Eh, of course, honey. Nothing bad will happen… I promise!"
Izzan (running into the room): "Dad! You're gonna teach me swordsmanship?!"
Aldric (glancing at Mira, who gave him a sharp look): "Uh… yes, son! But remember, we'll take it slow, okay? We'll start tomorrow morning."
Izzan (jumping with excitement): "Yay! I'm going to be a great knight like you, Dad!"
Mira (sighing, smiling at Izzan): "Don't get too excited, Izzan. And remember, your father will teach you slowly."
Aldric (thinking to himself, full of relief): "Phew, survived the storm today…"