The Call of the World

I tried to open my eyes, but they felt heavy, glued shut. I managed a tiny, pathetic wriggle, but my limbs unresponsive, like clumsy puppets. 

Panic, raw and primal, began to bubble up inside me. 

'W-where am I?...What happened?'

The last thing I remembered was… the accident. The old oak tree, the windy and rainy ground, the sickening crunch. Then, nothing. And now, this. A stiff and helpless feeling.

A sound, muffled and distant, broke through the fog in his mind. A woman's voice, laced with a strange formality, sounded. 

"Hushhhh, it's alright, Your Highness." 

Her voice was warm, soothing, as if trying to comfort me. I felt myself being lifted with ease, cradled as if I weighed nothing. 

"His Highness..... Is really beautiful."

The gentle swaying motion nearly lulled me into drowsiness, but confusion jolted me awake.

I tried to move again, to protest, but my body responded sluggishly—tiny fingers curling weakly, legs kicking without strength. 

"Her Grace really gave birth to a handsome young man."

She rocked me gently and tapped my nose with an affectionate chuckle. But all of this was not visible to me but with the feeling. 

I then just stayed still. The realization hit me like a tidal wave. The lightness of my limbs, the struggle to move, the strange way my body felt... 

I was really small and helpless... I instinctively knew what I was...

A baby. 

'I'm a baby! I've reincarnated!' 

Disbelief surged through me. My mind—sharp, filled with memories of my past life—was now trapped in a newborn's fragile body.

'How was this even possible? I'm dead already...'

I remembered it clearly. The accident, the pain, the crushing weight of darkness that was swallowing me whole. 

Yet here I was, alive again. 

The weight of this absurd reality pressed down on me. A prince? A newborn? My mind screamed for logic, for answers, but all I could do was lie there, helpless and bewildered, as the woman continued to rock me with gentle care.

****

Thirteen Years Later

"Your Highness, the bath is prepared, as you requested." 

Emma, my personal maidservant since infancy, appeared in the doorway, her presence as steady and familiar as the northern winds that swept through the Austerlitz estate.

She was in her thirties now, her honey-colored eyes filled with the same quiet warmth they had always held. 

"Thank you, Emma," I replied.

My voice deeper than it had been thirteen years ago, though still carrying the smooth cadence of youth. 

I turned away from the window, where the sprawling gardens of the Austerlitz estate stretched beneath me, their vibrant autumn hues muted by the pale morning light.

The northernmost lands of the Valerius Empire were already touched by the coming winter, and the crisp air that drifted through the open window carried the scent of damp earth and distant woodsmoke. 

"I shall be there shortly." 

Emma curtsied, her expression tinged with gentle concern. "Will you require anything further, Your Highness?" 

I considered for a moment before shaking my head. "No, Emma. Just… a little quiet. I have much to contemplate." 

"Of course, Your Highness." She curtsied again and withdrew, closing the door softly behind her. 

I exhaled, a small smile playing at my lips. The weight of my soon-to-be inherited title pressed down on me—not suffocating, but firm, like the comfortable weight of a well-worn cloak.

It was a responsibility he had long accepted, one I knew that I was born to bear. Even in the solitude of my chambers, a thrill of anticipation hummed beneath my skin. 

Thirteen years since I've been reborn into this world, into the body of Claude Austerlitz, heir to the most powerful archduchy in the northern reaches of the Valerius Empire. 

Thirteen years of navigating courtly life, mastering the delicate dance of politics, power, and magic—all while living with the fragmented echoes of a past existence, a life that felt both foreign and familiar. 

I made my way to the bathing room, where the scent of lavender and chamomile thickened the air.

The large, ornately carved tub was filled with steaming water, its surface shimmering with fragrant oils. 

The attendants standing by waiting for my command, but I've dismissed them with a flick of his hand. "Leave me. I prefer solitude." 

They obeyed without question, slipping away silently. 

I stripped off my formal attire and stepped into the bath, sinking into the comforting heat. The warmth seeped into my muscles, easing the lingering tension he hadn't realized he carried. 

Contemplation, I had told Emma. It was true. I just have much to contemplate. 

The future of Austerlitz. The shifting balance of power. The growing tensions at the empire's borders. 

These were not burdens, but challenges—puzzles to be solved. And I had always enjoyed a good puzzle. 

Yet, beneath the surface of these pressing matters, another thought lingered. 

Who was me, truly? 

Was I Claude Austerlitz, archduke-in-waiting, a young noble blessed with talent in elemental ice magic? Or I was something more—a remnant of another world, a shadow of another existence? 

The memories flickered in the depths of my mind. A different world, different technologies, a different life. 

A life I barely remembered, yet one that still whispered to me in quiet moments, like an unsolved riddle waiting to be unraveled. 

My eyes flicked upward, tracing the ornate carvings on the ceiling—constellations mapped out in intricate patterns, their presence familiar, grounding. 

No, I wasn't trapped between two lives. It was more like having two parallel stories running side by side. One, the grand tale of Austerlitz, steeped in duty, power, and magic. The other, a lingering mystery, a dreamlike enigma of a life lost and reborn. 

And the best part? I didn't have to choose because I could be both. 

A smirk tugged at my lips as I leaned back, letting the water ripple around me. This wasn't a burden. It was an adventure. 

By the time the water began to cool, I felt refreshed—not just in body, but in mind. I rose from the bath, reaching for a plush towel, its fabric warmed by gentle enchantments. 

A figure then stepped forward to assist me. 

My personal valet, Thomas in his early twenties, stood with practiced grace, a neatly folded set of attire draped over his arm. 

Dressing was a swift affair; a few well-placed enchantments ensured each garment settled perfectly, and his snow-white hair, still damp, fell into its usual pristine style. 

"Thank you, Thomas," I said, fastening the last button of his coat. "That will be all." 

Thomas bowed and retreated, leaving me alone once more. 

I then turned to the mirror, gazing at the young man reflected there. 

The young man staring back at me was every inch the image of a future archduke—poised, confident, exuding quiet authority.

My snow-white hair, as pure as fresh frost, framed a face that was strikingly handsome, my deep-blue eyes gleaming like polished sapphires beneath the pale morning light. 

Chiseled features, an air of refinement, an almost ethereal beauty—it was as though I had stepped out of legend. 

But I knew the truth. There was more to me than just nobility and power. There was a hidden depth, a whisper of something beyond this world. And that, more than anything, was what made me who he was. 

With a final glance at my reflection, I turned away and strode toward the balcony. The doors opened at my approach, revealing the estate grounds stretched out before me, bathed in the golden light of an autumn morning. 

The cold northern wind swept through the gardens, carrying with it the scent of damp leaves and the distant smoke of hearth fires. The sky, a pale and endless expanse, stretched over the land he would one day rule. 

I inhaled deeply, my breath misting in the crisp air. 

I stood on the balcony, the crisp northern wind ruffling my snow-white hair as my gazed over the sprawling Austerlitz estate.

The vast gardens, gilded with the golden hues of autumn, stretched beyond sight, a testament to my new life family's wealth and influence. 

It was a casual thought at first—one that had flitted through my mind countless times over the years—but today, it lingered. 

"Just how rich am I, exactly?" 

It was a strange question for an heir of my stature to ask. I had grown up surrounded by luxury, my every need met before I even voiced it.

Fine silks, enchanted jewelry, the finest tutors in the empire, an entire retinue of servants at my beck and call—he had always known I was privileged. 

But I had never truly thought about the sheer scale of my full wealth. 

My surname alone carried weight. The Austerlitz name was synonymous with power, wealth, and prestige, stretching back centuries.

They were not mere nobility; they were an Archducal House—one of only a handful in the Valerius Empire, second only to the Imperial Family itself. 

And unlike other noble houses that relied on imperial favor, Austerlitz was an empire unto itself. 

I leaned on the stone railing, letting my mind wander. 

Our family's wealth came from multiple sources—land, commerce, magic, and war. 

The Austerlitz Territory was vast, covering nearly a quarter of the empire's northernmost lands. It was a land of harsh winters, towering mountains, and icy rivers, but what it lacked in warmth, it more than made up for in resources. 

First, there were the mines. The northern mountains were rich with precious metals—gold, silver, and, most importantly, mana crystals, the lifeblood of magical civilization.

Unlike ordinary gold, mana crystals were priceless, powering everything from magical weapons to enchanted artifacts. The Austerlitz family controlled the largest reserves in the empire, with entire mining towns under their rule. 

Then, there was trade The northern region, despite its cold, was a crucial hub for commerce.

One of the largest port cities in the empire lay within Austerlitz lands, handling trade routes that connected the empire to foreign kingdoms across the sea.

Exotic goods, rare magical beasts, enchanted textiles—everything passed through their hands, with heavy taxes paid for the privilege. 

But the real source of our power? That would be our Austerlitz Private Army.

Unlike other noble houses who owns private army and those who depended on imperial soldiers, Austerlitz maintained its own powerful standing army—one of the most elite forces in the empire.

It was said that an Austerlitz knight was worth ten ordinary soldiers, trained in both swordsmanship and battle magic. They were not mercenaries, but warriors born and bred for war, fiercely loyal to his house. 

And me, Claude as heir, personally owned a significant portion of these assets. 

I sighed, rubbing my temple. 

"So, not just rich. Absurdly rich."

It was strange to think about. I had lived my previous life—one where money had been a concern, where financial stability was something people worked for. Here, I could likely buy a small kingdom if I wished. 

My fingers drummed against the railing. Wealth, in itself, didn't interest me. I wasn't the type to hoard treasures or indulge in lavish spending. But what did interest me was what this wealth represented. 

Influence. Power. Freedom.

I had all three at this at my fingertips. But how would I use them properly? 

A knock at the door interrupted my thoughts. 

"Enter," I called. 

The door swung open, revealing Duke Reinhardt Austerlitz, my father. 

Tall and imposing, the Duke was a man carved from stone—broad-shouldered, with piercing eyes the same deep blue as Claude's. His mere presence commanded respect. 

"Claude," his father greeted, stepping inside.

He wore a military coat lined with silver embroidery, the crest of House Austerlitz gleaming on his chest.

"You're up early." 

I gave a wry smile. "It's hardly early, Father." 

"For a boy your age, it is." 

I didn't argue. I had long since stopped behaving like a 'boy my age.' 

Reinhardt walked to the window, his sharp gaze surveying the land below. "You were staring out at the estate for some time. What was on your mind?" 

I hesitated a bit, then decided to speak plainly. 

"Our wealth." 

The Duke raised an eyebrow. "What of it?" 

I folded my arms. "I was simply wondering how much I personally own, considering my position as heir." 

My father studied me for a long moment, then let out a small chuckle. "That's an odd thing to ponder first thing in the morning." 

I smirked. "Call it curiosity." 

Reinhardt nodded. "Fair enough. To answer your question—a great deal. As my heir, you already hold official titles and estates in your name, separate from the main family fortune." 

He turned, crossing his arms. "You own fifteen townships, and over fifty noble estates across the empire—each generating its own revenue from trade, agriculture, or industry. You also have shares in the Northern Trade Company, which oversees the majority of overseas imports." 

I carefully absorbed the information. 'I had expected to be wealthy, but hearing it spelled out like that was… overwhelming.'

My father continued. "And once you inherit my title as Archduke, the full weight of Austerlitz's resources will be yours. The mines, the army, the trade routes—all of it." 

I let out a slow breath, glancing once more at the sprawling lands beneath me. 

It was no exaggeration to say that my family's wealth and power could shape the fate of the empire itself. 

And as my father took his leave, I remained by the window, the realization settling in. 

Power. Influence. A vast fortune beyond imagination. 

Me, Claude Austerlitz had been born into privilege, yes. But more than that—I had been born into opportunity.

I exhaled slowly, my breath misting in the crisp autumn air. 

Power. Influence. A vast fortune beyond imagination. 

And yet… 

"I have no need for it. Not yet."

I let the thought settle in his mind, rolling it over like a chess piece between my fingers. 

Wealth was a tool and a resource.

I had seen men, both in this life and the vague remnants of my previous one, become slaves to their riches—spending lavishly, hoarding endlessly, or worse, becoming complacent. 

But I had no interest in indulgence, nor in drawing attention to myself so soon. 

I turned from the balcony, stepping back into my chambers. 

For now, I would let the world believe I was merely the young heir of Austerlitz, studying diligently, learning politics and magic as any noble son should. 

I would let the nobles of the court continue their petty rivalries, let the imperial factions play their endless games of power. 

"I would watch. Observe. Learn."

And when the time came—when I was ready.... then I would move. 

A soft knock at the door interrupted my thoughts. 

"Enter," I called. 

Emma stepped inside, carrying a silver tray with a steaming cup of tea. "Your Highness, your morning tea." 

I took the cup, the faint scent of bergamot filling my senses. I sipped it slowly, savoring the warmth. 

"Has there been any word from the capital?" I asked casually. 

Emma shook her head. "Nothing of note, Your Highness." 

I nodded, setting the cup down. 

The capital. The Valerius Empire's beating heart, filled with schemers and power-hungry nobles. One day, I would walk its gilded halls and command its attention. 

But not today. 

Today, I would remain Claude Austerlitz, heir to the north. A student of war and magic. A young noble enjoying the fleeting days of autumn. 

And the world would keep turning, blissfully unaware of the storm I would one day unleash.

I finished my tea, the warmth settling in my chest, before heading toward the grand dining hall where my parents awaited. 

The halls of the Austerlitz estate were as imposing as they were beautiful—vaulted ceilings adorned with intricate carvings, banners bearing the house crest, and tall windows that flooded the corridors with morning light.

The scent of freshly baked bread and roasted meats drifted through the air, a reminder that breakfast had already been set. 

As I entered the dining hall, my mother, Duchess Eleanor Austerlitz, was already seated, gracefully sipping her tea.

She was a woman of striking beauty, with platinum-blond hair that shimmered under the morning sun, her noble features exuding both warmth and quiet authority.

Despite her composed demeanor, her eyes lit up the moment she saw me. 

"Claude," she greeted, setting her teacup down. "Come, sit. You kept us waiting." 

My father, Duke Reinhardt Austerlitz, sat at the head of the table, already helping himself to a selection of meats and bread. He looked up, his sharp blue eyes softening ever so slightly.

"Morning, son. Did you sleep well?" 

Claude took his seat, offering them both a small smile. "I did. The weather is nice today." 

Eleanor smiled, reaching out to brush a stray lock of my snow-white hair back into place.

"You should spend some time in the gardens, then. The autumn colors are lovely this year." 

I simply nodded, though my mind was elsewhere. 

The servants swiftly began serving me—a warm plate of poached eggs, fresh-baked bread with honey, and lightly seasoned meats. I picked up my utensils, listening as my parents made light conversation. 

It was peaceful, this morning ritual of theirs. 

Though the Duke and Duchess were powerful figures in the empire, known for their strength and influence, within these walls, they were simply my parents.

And as their only child, I knew how much they cherished me. 

My mother, despite her regal upbringing, had been a constant source of warmth throughout my childhood.

And my father, though a stern and disciplined man, had always ensured that I grew up with both guidance and protection. 

They had never treated me as just an heir or a political asset. I was their son, first and foremost. 

As the meal continued, my mother suddenly turned to me with a gentle smile. "Claude, have you decided what you'll do with your day?" 

Hearing that, I set down my fork, thinking for a moment. 

"I plan to spend some time in the library," I said. "I want to review a few texts on elemental magic." 

My father gave an approving nod. "Good. Your control over ice magic is already impressive, but theory is just as important as practice." 

Eleanor sighed lightly. "You and your father both. Always focused on studies and training." She glanced at me with playful reproach. "You should take some time to enjoy yourself too, my dear." 

I chuckled. "I'll take a walk later, I promise." 

She seemed satisfied with that, sipping her tea again. 

The rest of breakfast passed in quiet comfort, filled with small talk and the occasional indulgent remark from my mother about how I should be eating more. 

When the meal came to an end, my father leaned back in his chair, regarding me with a thoughtful expression. 

"Claude," Reinhardt said, his tone measured, "have you given any thought to when you'd like to make your first appearance at court?" 

I stilled slightly, though I had expected the question sooner or later. 

The imperial court—the very heart of politics, ambition, and power. 

I had been watching, learning from afar. But stepping into that world myself? That would be another matter entirely. 

I met my father's gaze, lips curving into a small, knowing smile. 

"I have," I said simply. 

But whether it would be soon… that was a decision I had yet to make.

I picked up his teacup, taking a slow sip as I considered my father's words and finished what I'm going to say. 

"Soon."

A vague word, one that could mean next month to some—but to me, soon meant years from now. Perhaps when I reached my twenties. 

I was only thirteen. There was no need to rush. 

The imperial court was a battlefield of politics, ambition, and hidden daggers. Entering too early would be reckless.

Even with my intelligence, magic, and status, I knew that the greatest power came from patience. 

Why step into that world as a mere promising youth when I could enter it later as an undeniable force? 

I then met my father's gaze, his deep-blue eyes steady. "There's no need to hurry," I said calmly. "I still have much to learn before I step onto that stage." 

Reinhardt studied me for a moment before a slow, approving smile crossed his lips.

"Good." He leaned back, nodding. "Patience is a virtue in our world. The moment you enter the court, there will be expectations, challenges… enemies. Best to ensure you're truly ready when that day comes." 

Eleanor sighed, though there was a fondness in her expression.

"Must the two of you always speak in strategies and battles?"

She then reached out, gently touching my hand. "You're still young, my dear. Enjoy these years while you can." 

I smiled slightly. "I intend to, Mother." with a thought, 'I meant it.' 

These years were mine to shape, to prepare. I would hone my magic, expand my knowledge, and solidify my understanding of the world. 

There was no rush. 

When I finally stepped into the imperial court, it wouldn't be as a boy trying to prove himself. 

It would be as a man they couldn't ignore.

I placed my napkin beside my empty plate and rose from my seat, offering my parents a respectful nod. 

"Thank you for the meal," I said smoothly. "I'll take my leave now." 

My mother gave me a warm smile. "Don't forget to take a break between your studies, Claude." 

"I won't, Mother." 

My father simply nodded in approval. "Make good use of your time." 

I inclined my head slightly before turning and leaving the dining hall. 

The grand corridors of the Austerlitz estate stretched before me, bathed in soft morning light filtering through the tall windows.

The crisp autumn air followed me as I walked, the scent of fallen leaves and distant chimneys lingering. 

Despite the vast wealth and power my family held, the estate was not oppressively extravagant.

Every stone, every column, and every tapestry spoke of elegance, not excess—a reflection of the Austerlitz philosophy. Strength was meant to be wielded with precision, not flaunted. 

I passed a few servants along the way, all of whom bowed respectfully. I acknowledged them with a small nod but didn't slow my pace. My destination was clear. 

The library. 

One of my favorite places in the estate, it was a vast hall of knowledge, filled with tomes on magic, history, politics, and philosophy.

I've had spent countless hours within its walls already, consuming knowledge like a man starving for more than just food. 

But today, I wasn't merely here to read. 

Today, I intended to refine my understanding of my magic which is water elemental magic—particularly, my control over ice. 

My snow-white hair and deep-blue eyes were not just marks of nobility.

They were signs of our family's natural affinity for ice magic, an element that flowed through my very veins.

While I had trained extensively under private tutors, I had always felt there was more to uncover, more to master. 

I reached the towering double doors of the library and pushed them open, stepping into the familiar space filled with the scent of old parchment and enchanted lanterns glowing softly in the dim light. 

The library was empty, as I expected. Few in the household spent time here as much as I did because it was only for direct linage. 

I walked between the shelves, my fingertips grazing the spines of countless books before stopping at a particular section.

My gaze landed on a thick, leather-bound tome embossed with silver filigree. 

"The Theory of Elemental Resonance."

My lips curved slightly. "Yes. This would do."

I pulled the book from the shelf, carried it to one of the reading alcoves, and settled in. 

The morning had barely begun, but my real work was just starting.