[AFTER A FEW DAYS]
Poll lay in his crib, deep in thought.
If I'm right, today's my birthday. One whole year in this new world. He sighed internally. For normal humans, mana circuits activate between ages 7 and 14. But nope, not for me. I've got at least another 8 years of this baby grind before anything cool happens.
He glanced toward a shelf stacked with books. Books aren't really my thing, but what else can I do? Time to hit the baby basics of mana studies, I guess. Gotta act like a normal kid too. Here they come…
The morning light filtered through the curtains as Seraphina Nightvale entered, her steps soft and measured. She approached Poll's crib, her face glowing with warmth.
"Good morning, my little star," she whispered, her voice like a gentle melody. She brushed a tiny curl away from his forehead. "Today, you turn one."
Poll gurgled, reaching for her finger with his chubby hand.
Seraphina smiled, her eyes soft with affection. "You don't know it yet, but you're special. One day, you'll grow strong, and I'll be here to guide you every step of the way." She leaned in, pressing a tender kiss on his forehead. "Happy birthday, Poll. I love you."
Poll felt a mix of emotions. Wow, this is nice. I've got a family now. Even if I'm technically an adult inside, I can get behind this. Being loved like this… I could get used to it.
[Later That Day: Royal Ball]
I thought we'd celebrate quietly at home, but nope. Turns out today's also the second prince's birthday, so we're at the royal palace. King's orders.
Poll glanced around the grand ballroom. Chandeliers hung like upside-down forests of stars, and noble guests glided across the polished floor in clothes that screamed, I'm worth more than your house.
His parents were mingling, exchanging polite words with other high-ranking nobles. Meanwhile, Poll was busy playing the role of the world's cutest accessory.
Except for one thing.
Why does everyone think it's okay to poke my cheeks?! He scowled internally as yet another stranger approached, their fingers reaching out to squish his face like he was some kind of interactive art exhibit.
That's when she appeared.
A young woman with platinum hair and sharp, mischievous eyes strode confidently toward him. Her elegant dress shimmered, but her smirk was what caught Poll's attention. She bent down to his eye level, her gaze playful and knowing.
"Hey, little guy," she cooed in a honeyed tone. "Are you excited about life? Grow up fast, okay? Then we can do all sorts of naughty things together."
Poll's baby brain short-circuited. Excuse me?! WHAT?! His tiny face froze in shock.
Before he could process further, his father, Eryndor, chimed in smoothly. "Your Highness, perhaps it's not wise to plant such ideas in a child so impressionable. Who knows? He might take your words seriously one day."
Wait, hold up. Did he just…?
The woman—Princess Seraphine, as Poll quickly realized—laughed lightly, her smirk never fading. "Oh, Captain Nightvale, do you really think a simple comment from me could shape a young mind so easily?" She gave Poll a playful wink. "But you're right. He might surprise us."
What kind of royal banter is this?! Poll thought, desperately pretending not to understand.
Princess Seraphine straightened, her demeanor effortlessly transitioning from playful to regal. She glanced toward Seraphina with a warm smile. "Lady Nightvale, it's always a pleasure to see you. You look as radiant as ever."
Seraphina bowed gracefully. "Your Highness, you flatter me. It's an honor to be here on such an occasion."
"Please," Seraphine waved her hand dismissively. "No need for formalities between us. After all, we're practically family." She glanced back at Poll, her eyes twinkling. "And this little one? He'll grow up surrounded by strength and wisdom. I'm sure he'll carry a spark of my spirit, too."
Poll sighed internally. Can someone please explain what's going on?
As the evening went on, laughter and music filled the hall. Then, the massive double doors swung open, and the room fell silent.
The king's assistant stepped forward, his voice booming. "Lords and ladies, it is my great honor to present His Majesty, King Varyndor Aelthor!"
Poll's tiny eyes widened as the towering figure of the king entered. His regal robes glimmered under the golden light, and every step he took exuded power and authority.
Okay, now that's a guy you don't mess with.
Applause echoed through the hall as King Varyndor nodded graciously, his presence commanding the attention of all.
Poll was soon guided to a special seat, one just for him. He barely noticed, though. His eyelids were heavy.
Big day… Big room… he thought, fighting sleep. Time to…zzzz…
And just like that, the birthday boy was out cold, snuggled peacefully amidst the grandeur of the royal ball.