As the years passed, life at the Arvelyn estate became a blend of study, exploration, and quiet joy. Though I had grown accustomed to my new world, every day still held a sense of wonder. My family's love surrounded me like a shield, and the gradual discovery of magic filled me with excitement.
Rachel, my elder sister, continued to hover around me like a protective hawk. She would interrupt my lessons with Mother to bring me snacks, sneak into my room at night to tell me stories, and insist on holding my hand whenever we walked through the estate gardens. Her attachment was unshakable, but her love was genuine.
"Charles," she said one morning as she braided my hair—a task she had taken upon herself despite my protests, "you're the cutest little brother anyone could ever have. Do you know that?"
I sighed, trying to remain patient. "Rachel, I'm not a doll."
"Nonsense," she replied, grinning. "You'll always be my adorable little brother."
---
Magic Lessons Begins
At the age of four, my mother, Lady Eliza, decided I was ready for formal magic training. She started with the basics—channeling mana and understanding the core elements.
"Magic flows through everyone," she explained, her voice gentle yet firm. "But how we shape it depends on our will, discipline, and understanding of nature. Now, Charles, focus on the flame."
Before us stood a single candle, its wick unlit. I stared at it, feeling the warmth of mana stirring within me. My hands tingled as I extended them toward the candle.
"Picture the flame in your mind," Mother instructed. "Feel the heat, see it flicker, and then bring it to life."
I closed my eyes, focusing on the image of a small, steady flame. Slowly, I felt the energy within me gather, flowing to my fingertips. When I opened my eyes, the candle wick sparked and caught fire, burning with a steady orange glow.
Mother clapped her hands, pride shining in her green eyes. "Wonderful! Charles, you're a natural."
Her words filled me with a quiet sense of accomplishment, but deep down, I knew this was only the beginning.
---
Father's Watchful Eyes
My father, Archduke Elias, was a man of few words, but his presence loomed large in my life. While Mother handled my magical education, Father took charge of my physical training.
"Magic without strength is a weakness," he said one morning as we stood in the training yard. "You'll need both to protect what matters."
At first, the training was grueling. My small frame struggled to keep up with the wooden sword Father handed me, and my swings were clumsy at best. But Father was patient, guiding me with a steady hand.
"Footwork, Charles. Always keep your balance," he instructed, demonstrating a series of precise movements. "Control your stance, and the rest will follow."
By the time I was five, I could hold my own in a sparring match with one of the estate's knights—though they clearly went easy on me.
---
A Sudden Revelation
One afternoon, while practicing magic in the garden, I decided to experiment with combining elements. Mother had warned me not to push myself too hard, but my curiosity got the better of me.
I began by summoning a small orb of water, letting it float above my palm. Then, I attempted to add wind magic, hoping to create a spinning vortex.
At first, it worked beautifully. The water orb began to swirl, its surface shimmering as it spun faster and faster. But then, the magic grew unstable. The orb burst, sending a spray of water into the air.
"Charles!" Rachel's voice rang out as she rushed toward me, worry etched on her face. "Are you alright?"
I blinked, surprised by her sudden appearance. "I'm fine, Rachel. It was just an experiment."
"You shouldn't push yourself like that!" she scolded, grabbing my hands to check for injuries. "What if you got hurt? I wouldn't forgive myself if something happened to you."
I smiled softly. "Thank you for worrying, Rachel, but I'm okay. I promise."
Her expression softened, but the concern in her eyes remained.
---
The Noble Life
As the son of an archduke, my life was filled with privileges and responsibilities. Tutors visited the estate regularly to teach me history, politics, and etiquette, preparing me for the role I would one day play in the empire.
Despite the rigorous schedule, I found joy in the small moments—watching the sunrise from the estate's tower, exploring the library's vast collection of books, and spending time with my family.
Rachel, of course, was always by my side, often dragging me along on her adventures. "Come on, Charles!" she'd say, pulling me toward the stables. "Let's ride horses today!"
Though her energy could be overwhelming, I couldn't deny that her presence made my days brighter.
---
A Glimpse of the Outside World
At the age of six, I was allowed to accompany my father on a trip to the nearby town of Silverleaf. It was my first time leaving the estate, and the sights and sounds of the bustling market filled me with excitement.
Merchants called out from their stalls, selling everything from fresh produce to enchanted trinkets. Children ran through the streets, laughing and playing, while knights in shining armor patrolled the cobblestone roads.
"Stay close to me," Father said, his deep voice cutting through the noise.
I nodded, marveling at the diversity of people around me. Nobles in fine clothing mingled with commoners, their interactions surprisingly amicable. It was a stark contrast to the strict hierarchies I had read about in my lessons.
One particular sight caught my attention—a street performer juggling flames with effortless skill. I watched in awe as he controlled the fire with a precision that bordered on magic.
"Enjoying yourself?" Father asked, a rare smile tugging at his lips.
"Yes," I replied, my eyes still fixed on the performer. "This world is… incredible."
Father's smile deepened, and for a moment, I thought I saw a hint of pride in his gaze.
---
Foreshadowing the Future
As we returned to the estate that evening, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. My childhood was filled with wonder and discovery, but I knew that my journey was far from over.
The world beyond the Arvelyn estate was vast and full of mysteries, and though I didn't fully understand it yet, I could sense that my destiny was tied to something greater.
For now, I resolved to continue growing—physically, magically, and spiritually. Whatever challenges lay ahead, I would face them with the love and support of my family by my side.
Little did I know, my first real test was closer than I thought.