Chapter 5: The Path of Growth
Maximus's heart pounded as he completed the last set of exercises assigned by Goliath, his father's Rook. His breathing was heavy, and sweat trickled down his forehead. Training had started just the day before, and Maximus was already beginning to understand how challenging it would be.
"Hah… hah…" Maximus panted, catching his breath. The physical training was far more intense than anything he had ever done before. While he could practice his magical abilities alone, physical training required guidance. And under Goliath's strict regimen, Maximus was being pushed to his limits.
"At just five years old, lifting weights in tons…" Maximus muttered to himself, wiping the sweat from his brow. "I've broken records that humans in my past life would consider impossible." But he knew that in the world of devils, this was nothing extraordinary. Devils were powerful beings, and their strength far exceeded that of humans. Perhaps this was one reason why many devils looked down on humans—they were simply too weak in comparison.
Despite his natural talent and strong body, Maximus found himself struggling. The exercises were grueling, and his muscles ached from the strain. But he knew it was necessary. Physical strength was a vital part of his overall power, and he was determined to excel in every aspect of his training.
After several hours of intense training, Maximus returned to his room, exhausted but satisfied with his progress. The maids quickly attended to him, helping him bathe and dress in fresh clothes. At first, he had felt embarrassed by the attention, but now he had grown accustomed to it. The comfort of being pampered by the maids was something he secretly enjoyed.
Once he was clean and refreshed, Maximus headed to his magic class. Today would be his first lesson with Agatha, his father's Bishop. Agatha was a human magician who had become a devil to pursue greater heights in magic and enjoy the immortality that came with it. She was highly knowledgeable and skilled, and Maximus looked forward to learning from her.
When he entered the study, Agatha was already waiting for him. She greeted him with a calm and composed demeanor, her eyes filled with wisdom.
"Good morning, young master Maximus," she said, bowing slightly. "Today, we will begin your formal education in magic."
Maximus nodded, eager to get started. "I'm ready, Agatha."
"Excellent," she replied. "For devils, magic is an extension of our will and imagination. Unlike humans, who require incantations, formulas, or magic circles, we can manifest our desires directly into reality—within certain limitations, of course."
Agatha's explanation made sense to Maximus. He had always known that devils wielded magic differently from humans, but hearing it laid out so clearly made him appreciate the uniqueness of their abilities even more.
"Let's start with something simple," Agatha continued. "Fire magic. Imagine a ball of fire forming in front of you, and then direct it toward the target."
Maximus closed his eyes and focused. With his vast magical reserves and vivid imagination, he visualized a massive ball of fire. When he opened his eyes, a ten-meter-wide fireball was already floating in front of him, crackling with intense heat. Without hesitation, he hurled it toward the target.
The fireball exploded on impact, reducing the target to ashes. Agatha watched with a raised eyebrow, clearly impressed but also concerned.
"That was quite the display," she said, "but you must learn to control your power, Maximus. Magic is not just about strength; it's about precision and control. If you're not careful, you could end up harming your allies as well."
Maximus nodded, understanding the importance of her words. While it was easy for him to create powerful spells, reigning in that power would be the real challenge. Over the next four hours, they worked together on refining his control, practicing different spells and techniques until he began to improve.
By the end of the session, Maximus was both mentally and physically drained. Agatha's lessons were intense, but he could feel himself getting stronger, not just in magic but in discipline and focus as well.
Later that day, Maximus sat with his mother, Lady Agares, in one of the estate's many sitting rooms. The room was warm and inviting, with the soft glow of candlelight reflecting off the polished wood furniture. His mother smiled at him, her expression filled with affection and pride.
"So, how was your first day of training, my son?" she asked, her voice gentle and soothing.
Maximus felt a warmth in his chest at her concern. "It was tough, Mother, but I learned a lot. Both the physical training and the magic lessons were challenging, but I'm determined to improve."
Lady Agares reached out and placed a hand on his shoulder. "I'm proud of you, Maximus. You're growing stronger every day, and I can see the determination in your eyes. Remember, it's not just about becoming powerful; it's about becoming someone who can lead and protect those you care about."
Maximus nodded, feeling the weight of her words. His mother had always been his guiding light, her wisdom and kindness shaping him into the person he was. He cherished their moments together, whether it was discussing his training or simply spending time as a family.
"Where's Seek-chan?" Maximus asked, noticing his little sister wasn't with them.
"She's with the maids, preparing for bed," his mother replied with a soft chuckle. "She's been waiting to see you all day, you know. She looks up to you so much."
Maximus smiled, imagining his little sister's excited face. Seekvaira was full of energy and always eager to be around him. He made a mental note to spend more time with her, knowing how important it was for them to bond.
Just then, the door to the sitting room opened, and his father, Lord Agares, entered. Maximus immediately straightened up, knowing that when his father sought him out, it was usually for something important.
"Maximus," his father greeted him with a nod before taking a seat across from him. "You've begun your physical and magical training, but there is more you need to learn."
Maximus listened intently, recognizing the serious tone in his father's voice.
"Strength and magic are essential," Lord Agares continued, "but they are only part of what it means to be the heir of the Agares family. You must also understand the world we live in, the politics of the Underworld, and the significance of your future role."
Maximus nodded, already aware that this conversation was coming. As the future head of the Agares family, he would need to master not only his powers but also the art of leadership.
"You are engaged to Rias Gremory," his father said, reminding him of the alliance between their families. "This union is not just about the bond between two people, but also about the alliance between two great houses. You must understand the weight of this responsibility."
Maximus took a deep breath, absorbing his father's words. He had always known that his engagement to Rias held political significance, but now he was beginning to grasp just how important it was. His actions, his decisions—everything he did would impact not just his future, but the future of his family and the Gremory family as well.
"Tomorrow, after your training," his father continued, "you will begin studying the history and politics of the Underworld with me. I will guide you in understanding the complexities of our world. Your mother will also assist in your studies, particularly in diplomacy."
Maximus looked at his mother, who smiled encouragingly. "I will teach you all I know, Maximus. Together, we will ensure that you are prepared for the responsibilities that lie ahead."
"Thank you, Mother. Thank you, Father," Maximus replied, his voice filled with determination. He was ready to embrace this new chapter of his life, to learn and grow into the leader his family needed him to be.
As the night drew to a close, Maximus found himself alone in his room once more. He lay on his bed, staring up at the ceiling, his mind racing with thoughts of the future. The path ahead was daunting, but he knew that with his family's support and his own determination, he would rise to the challenge.
Maximus closed his eyes, a faint smile playing on his lips. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, but he was ready to face them. He was Maximus Agares, heir to one of the most powerful clans in the Underworld, and he would not fail.
With that resolve, Maximus drifted into a deep, dreamless sleep, ready to continue his journey toward greatness.
---