Time waits for no one, and before I knew it, the day to meet my grandparents had arrived. My mother's voice still echoed in my ears as I stood by the ornate magitek carriage, a sleek construct powered by mana crystals and adorned with intricate runes. It was my first time seeing it up close. It felt almost alive, humming softly as if it were eager to begin its journey.
"Come on, Arax. Don't keep your grandparents waiting," my father said with a rare smile. He wasn't the most expressive man, but even he seemed excited about this visit.
The journey to my grandparents' estate wasn't long, but the scenery outside captivated me. Rolling hills covered in vibrant greenery stretched as far as the eye could see, punctuated by small villages that thrived under the protective wings of the High Republic. Occasionally, I'd spot airships gliding gracefully across the sky, their mana engines leaving faint trails of shimmering light behind. This world, Xylaris, was as beautiful as it was vast.
When we arrived, I was greeted by the sight of two towering mansions flanking a grand courtyard. Each represented one side of my family. My mother's parents, renowned magicians, lived in a mansion practically glowing with arcane energy. The runes etched into its walls pulsed faintly, a testament to their mastery over magic. On the other side was my father's family estate, a fortress-like structure that screamed power and authority. The very air around it felt heavy, as if it were warning intruders to stay away.
Despite my initial nerves, the meeting was surprisingly warm. My maternal grandparents, Alaric and Seraphina, welcomed me with open arms. Alaric, an elderly man with piercing blue eyes that seemed to see through everything, smiled kindly. Seraphina, with her flowing silver hair and an aura of elegance, embraced me tightly.
"You've grown so much, Arax," she said softly. "It seems like just yesterday you were a tiny bundle in Elise's arms."
My paternal grandparents, Magnus and Lyria, were a stark contrast. Magnus was an imposing figure, his deep voice carrying the weight of command. Yet, when he looked at me, there was a glimmer of pride in his otherwise stoic expression. Lyria, despite her sharp features and regal demeanor, surprised me with a warm smile.
"He looks strong," Magnus remarked, his tone approving. "Good. Strength is the foundation of everything."
The day was spent exchanging stories, learning about their achievements, and being showered with gifts that ranged from enchanted artifacts to rare books. One gift, in particular, caught my attention—a small pendant from my grandmother Seraphina.
"This is no ordinary pendant, Arax," she explained. "It's a mana condenser. It'll help you refine and control your mana more efficiently. Consider it a tool for your journey into magic."
I was thrilled. My studies on mana manipulation had been progressing, but having a tool like this would accelerate my growth. Especially since i wanna awaken my mana core as quickly as i can.
Later in the evening, as the adults discussed politics and alliances, I found myself wandering through the estate. The library in my maternal grandparents' mansion was a treasure trove. Shelves upon shelves of ancient tomes and grimoires lined the walls, each one containing knowledge that could shape the future.
One book, in particular, caught my eye. Its cover was plain, yet it radiated an aura of mystery. The title read "The Foundations of Dimensional Magic." I opened it, and the words seemed to leap off the page, filling my mind with possibilities. Dimensional magic? The ability to bend space and time? This was on a whole new level. That looks like stepping into some high level territory. But i suppose it wouldn't hurt to have some hope.
Before I could dive too deeply, my mother appeared behind me. "Curious as always, aren't you?" she said with a smile. "That book is a bit advanced for you, but perhaps one day, you'll master its secrets."
I nodded, determination burning in my chest. One day, I would.
As the night drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. Meeting my grandparents, hearing their stories, and seeing the legacy I was part of—it was all overwhelming yet inspiring. I didn't know what the future held, but one thing was certain: I was ready to face it.
For now, though, I was content. This peaceful night, surrounded by family, was a memory I would cherish forever.
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