"First, I need to find a way to connect with the orb. Since I have no clue how to use my soul, I'll start with my emotions and thoughts. Focus on the orb… visualize it, and imagine myself reaching out to make contact."
After several minutes of concentrated effort, Auron began to sense a faint connection. He visualized his hands extending towards the orb, as though he was physically holding it. Just as his imaginary fingers brushed the surface, the connection abruptly vanished, slipping away like smoke between his hands.
"Damn it, I was so close to connecting with it," Auron muttered, frustration evident in his voice. "This is tougher than I thought. Stay calm Auron,—this is just your first attempt. Keep your cool, and you'll get it eventually." He took a deep breath to steady himself. "Alright, let's give it another try."
Auron reviewed the key aspects of his method and made another attempt. Despite his renewed focus, he repeatedly failed to achieve a connection. Each attempt only seemed to bring him back to square one, testing his patience and resolve.
"My goodness, I thought I could spend this time extracting a soul cultivation technique from the orb, but we're getting nowhere," Auron sighed. "It seems like I need to change my approach. Xiao Yu, do you have any suggestions on a different method I could try?" he asked, frustrated but hopeful.
"Perhaps you could try synchronizing your Celestial Aura with the orb," Xiao Yu suggested. "By aligning your energy with it, you might receive some kind of feedback or establish a connection."
"Hmm... that sounds reasonable. Alright, I'll give it a try," Auron nodded in agreement. He then activated his cultivation technique, focusing on synchronizing it with the imaginary orb. After a few moments of concentrated effort, he began to sense the orb more clearly, almost able to "see" it in his mind. Carefully, he directed his Celestial Aura toward the orb. The orb gave a slight, almost imperceptible wiggle, but otherwise remained still, offering no further response.
"Okay...now what? I'm out of ideas and it's getting late. My mother will definitely be here soon. Maybe we should call it a day," Auron said, frustration clear in his voice.
"I suggest you continue channeling your Celestial Aura to the orb," Xiao Yu advised. "It's the most practical method given that you don't have any other means to connect with it using your soul at the moment."
"Using my soul... right, I can use my soul. My mystical eyes should be perfect for manipulating it. How could I have forgotten this? What a blunder on my part. Given the time constraints, I'll make just one attempt. I hope I can succeed with this try—otherwise, establishing a link with the orb might take much longer," Auron said, his expression a mix of determination and hope.
Taking a deep breath, Auron focused intently and began another attempt to connect with the orb using his mystical eyes. The orb suddenly glowed brightly, reminiscent of its brilliance in the cave. A tingling sensation surged through him, accompanied by a splitting headache. As he steadied his breathing and calmed himself, he sensed a fundamental connection forming between himself and the orb. This breakthrough lifted his spirits, bringing a hopeful smile to his face.
"Little star, it's time to wash up—we need to get you ready for your birthday celebration. You seem unusually happy; I noticed you were smiling just now. Are you excited about tonight's event?" Mommy too. You're gonna meet with new friends. Make sure to bahave yourself alright. Then , Sarah carry Auron to the bathroom and bath him.
Auron's father, Alex, had returned home and was busy preparing the table and adding touches of decoration for the celebration. He had received permission from the town head to leave early, as he was hosting his son's first birthday. The town head, well aware of Alex's esteemed position as a respected knight, granted the request without hesitation.
Alex was known for his dedication to training the youth of the town, many of whom had gone on to join renowned academies and fortresses nearby. His reputation for imparting skill and discipline was well-earned, reflecting his ability to lay a strong foundation for future knights. His earnest efforts and commitment to nurturing young talent demonstrated the profound impact he had on his community.
Wearing a knee-length tunic in a soft white, the baby's already charming face is further brightened. The contrast between his white tunic and his dark black hair adds a distinctive charm. Paired with brown breeches and black shoes, his outfit hints at a growing sophistication. Today, Auron is the center of attention, and Sarah has prepared the best for him. Every piece of clothing, sewn by her own hands, reflects the deep love she has for her only son.
Seeing his outfit, Auron felt a deep surge of happiness and excitement. The care and attention his mother had poured into his attire were evident, and it filled him with warmth. In his past life, he had lost his mother while he was still very young, growing up solely with his father's love. Now, in this life, he was determined to make both of his parents proud, especially his mother.
A mother's love is a profound force, a guiding light that shapes and nurtures with boundless affection. It is in these moments of care and thoughtfulness that one truly feels its strength. Auron understood that this love, so evident in the smallest gestures, was a precious gift he would cherish and honor every day.
As the hour approached and the sun began to set, the lanterns around the house were lit, casting a warm glow. The fireplace, carefully prepared, radiated a comforting warmth throughout the home. Outside, a chilly wind added to the coziness of the evening, making the fireplace all the more inviting.
Auron was eagerly anticipating the arrival of his neighbors. While he had heard that their children were around his age, his true excitement was about meeting their father. It was said that he was a renowned hunter in the town, the go-to person for anyone needing assistance with the nearby swamp. The prospect of meeting such a skilled and respected figure filled Auron with great anticipation.
The sounds of footstep could be heard from outside...