ã€ŠA Good Bargain [HIATUS]ã€‹


 Chapter 1 - The good and the bad, lets have a good future!

    Chapter 1 - The good and the bad, let''s have a good future!

    In downtown New York, under an inconspicuous bridge, a man sat cross-legged. His face looked aged by all the wear and tear that he has been through. His gaze across the river empty. Any person passing by would scoff at him. He looked roughly like any other beggar. Only those with a keen eye would see that this beggar-like person was wearing a worn out suit under his thick brown coat. A soft frustrated sigh came out of his mouth.

    What should I do now? Warren was thinking how to get himself out of this predicament. A wry smile formed on his face. He knew he couldn''t go back to his former life. Thinking back now, he made a lot of wrong decisions. He wanted to blame his former boss and colleagues - but he knew he still held most of the blame.

    "Warren, did you get client X to invest in those stocks I told you about?"

    "Warren, Client Y might be old but he''s still got tons of money, get him to invest in stocks P!"

    "Warren..Warren..Warren..."

    Asked to make all kinds of dubious transactions. Asked to have clients take risks they should never take. Using his skill to take lots of commissions. He had helped his company rake in tons of profits. He knew what he did was wrong for his clients. However, the luxury life - a company car and driver, the upper east side mansion. They would take it all. The black company he worked for threatened him after giving him so much. His ex, his children, his career... They used it all to get him to do their dirty laundry. He knew he was wrong. He should''ve never done any of it. He shook his head when he was a young 20 years old just out of the school, banks life seemed so promising. He took the deal with the black company after simply glancing at the contract and seeing the pay. He wanted to punch the face of his former naive young self.

    The market broke down on a fateful day in 2008. All kinds of dealings and wrongdoings came to light. His superiors used their money to corrupt some investigations left and right; in the end leading to him taking the fall. He had lost it all! His wife took whatever money he still had and his children with a lawsuit. During this time, his head had been screwed on wrong. He had only complied to whatever his wife wanted. He knew he was wrong. He was a man that was pitying himself a lot at that time. The world had wronged him so much! A dry laugh came from the now 34-year-old Warren. Even then I was still an idiot. Should have at least put up a fight instead of taking a fall and accepting whatever accusation was thrown in front of him.

    He put his hands in his coat and slowly got up from the cold ground. His muscles felt stiff from the long time he had been sitting there. A groan escaped his mouth as he started to stretch his body. "Time to go to John''s coffee shop. At least the kind old man still gives me a free coffee after closing time."

    As he was making his way from under the bridge, his head lost in thoughts, he approached the city lights.

    He crossed the roads, walking with the rest of the mass of people. John''s coffee shop was a 10-minute walk. He looked up to the high buildings, his brows making a small frown. He wished to be back in an office, working a boring 9 to 5 shift. As he walked, he noticed a pretty young lady in a blue coat holding a yellow umbrella. He looked up to the sky. "Hmm. Might actually rain tonight. I''ll need to find a garage to sleep tonight. If I get wet with this cold, I''ll freeze to death." A shiver went down his spine. Death. In his mind, he''d always said he was not afraid. He did not believe in gods or an afterlife. Just blissful nothingness. He had thought about ending it all at one time, but he knew he couldn''t do it. A life is to be cherished.

    The lady he had noticed before seemed not to know where she had to go to. New York had the custom that if you can, even for a single block, you''d take a yellow cab. He guessed she was a tourist. "Well, it''s not of my concern. Not to mention if I were to go up there to help her out... She''d think I''m either a beggar or a mugger." A self-decrepitating smile formed on his haggard face. Living on the streets had been rough on him. The loss of status and money had made him a different man than he was before. His naive, happy and smiling self-had been replaced by a thoughtful and self-mocking personality.

    The woman crossed the street without looking at the red lights. A shock flashed on Warren''s face as he started to accelerate towards her, trying to hold her back from crossing the road. As he did, his eyes saw the freight truck that was approaching at 40 miles an hour. "Shit! She''s gonna get hit! What the fuck is a freight truck doing here for god¡¯s sake!"

    He knew he was not going to make it to her on time, his body however still bolted forward. He leaped like he was a young athletic baseball player. Pushing his body to the limit in order to push the young lady out of harm''s way. As he looked towards the nearing truck and the lady in blue, the scene played as if in slow motion. "Well, I guess at least I saved someone. Perhaps I''ll gain some karmic luck for the afterlife. If there''s any..." A relaxed smile crept on his face. He knew this was the end. The truck was going to make a home run on his body. The reflection of the headlights on the truck could be seen in his eyes. He relaxed his body while making the last prayer - a prayer to no god in particular. He chuckled in his mind, for whatever it''s worth. He felt his hand reach the girl, he pushed with everything he got. He could only see her narrowly getting missed by the truck as he felt immense pain throughout his body. As if lightning struck him in each of his body''s cell, ripping him apart.

    Dead. He was dead. "Wait, I''m dead? Am I?" His mind tried to find out what was happening. He chuckled; "I declared myself dead. But somehow I can still think? I think therefore I am. Thank you, Descartes. If there''s any truth to that - I''m alive?"

    He started to use his consciousness to assert the situation. Slowly he felt his body as if forming around him. "This is totally weird. Was I paralyzed? Am I getting my feelings back? I don''t think they can fix me up after getting hit by that truck." His thoughts were getting clearer, more questions flooded his mind. His, well-supposed brain, was working overtime.

    "Your mind was in shambles after that crash. Don''t worry. With the help of this space, everything will be restored in time. Don''t worry too much, all will be made clear after your astral body had been reformed." An old and aged voice resounded through his mind.

    "Morgan Freeman? Goddamn, Morgan Freeman??"

    "Well, no. And I personally dislike people¡¯s cursing involving gods. I''m just taking a form that you can fathom. You see, I''m more of a being of energy - well, of sorts. Trying to make you humans understand these concepts would be too hard. You can call me Yaksa though.''

    "You''re god?"

    "Well, yes, you can take it as that. Though I''m not affiliated with your Earth. Anyways, wait till your astral body had been fully repaired then I''ll explain some things."

    For some reason, Warren disliked this god. He sounded rather nice, but also quite cocky. Like he couldn''t really be bothered but felt obliged to do some small talk. Reminded him of those glibbery telephone salesmen. They''d act all nice and friendly while selling a lot of crap to elderly who had no idea what they were getting into. He had a strong dislike for these kinds of people.

    A bit hypocritical of him, he knew that as well. But he''d rather stuff those thoughts away. His guilty conscience had haunted him for a long time now. However he''d mentally grown quite a bit, unwanted thoughts he simply let slip by him. He needed to. He knew he wouldn''t be able to do much if every thought was negative. While thinking of these things, he felt more and more of his body.

    "Seems this is what that arrogant god meant... Repairing my astral body... Guess that means it''s not a real body."

    This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    "You should be well aware that I''m reading the outer layer of your thoughts, you know. So I heard that. Well, be glad I can''t read your inner thoughts. If I, as a god, would try that, your entire consciousness would be blown up in millions of pieces due to the massive invading energy."

    A little annoyed by Yaksa, he tried moving his now fully repaired astral body. It felt just like it used to. However, more like it was him in his prime. Now that he felt his body was functioning again he thought he could use his senses again.

    Slowly he opened his eyes; An unending softly white space was around him. In front of him a big golden, richly adorned throne was standing. An elderly man with a long white beard sat on the throne.

    "What THE FUCK? GANDALF? GODDAMN RIDICULOUS."

    "Well, at least we can talk out loud now. Using energy to transmit thoughts is a bit hard on your soul I suppose. As for my appearance, like I said; I''m only taking a form that you can fathom. Apparently, your concept of God is an elderly man with wrinkles and a white beard. Can''t say you''re the only one with that misconception."

    "Well, you said you''re going to explain some things? If I guess, I''m dead? At least I doubt I''m alive, meeting a god after getting hit by a freight truck usually means that I''m dead." Warren said with sarcasm dripped from every word on the last sentence. Mocking the situation, himself and the god sitting across of him.

    "Yes, well, you''re quite quick to get on terms with dying aren''t you? Well, it does make things easier from here on out. Anyways, I took your soul from your world after making an agreement with your god. You see, all worlds need a certain balance of energies, like yin and yang. There''s no absolute evil or good. But a balance between subtle energies must be achieved in order for a world to be prosperous.

    A small group of us gods got corrupted in their souls. This was the result of their worlds not being in balance. This, in turn, led to a diminishing of those gods¡¯ powers and in turn the prosperousness in their worlds. It took millennia in those worlds to have a bit of life flourishing again. In order to help those gods, a group of gods took it upon themselves to take in parts of the corrupted energy.

    This however led to various problems in our worlds. In mine, various of new lifeforms have taking root from the foul energy. These demons now destroy the balance of energies in this world as the stronger demons devour parts of the souls of their prey. In order to return the balance, I made an agreement with other gods to take some of their richer souls and reincarnate them in my world. You could say, that you''re such a chosen person. However, your soul was in tatters so it took some of my divine power to restore you."

    "So, a reincarnation as in the novels? Also meeting a god. Perhaps, I''ll gain some OP cheat. Anyways, I should ask what he needs from me. A balance of energy seems to be made with these reincarnated souls. But I hope he isn''t going to ask me to slay all these demons. Unlike those cheat OP MC''s in xianxia novels, I''m not interested in dying again."

    "What is it that you want of me?"

    "Well, just live your life as you see fit. A second life should not be wasted. If there''s a demon nearby that you can slay, I''d, of course, be very happy with it. However, you''re unlikely to be the kind that saves the world, am I right? You did some rather nasty thing in your former life. I can see that you''re somewhat taciturn and cowardly. Don''t see you leading an army into the wilds to slay the little critters. You never were the righteous type I suppose. Well, your life at least saved that poor girl at your end."

    The god chuckled a little whilst saying so as if taking fun in his misfortunate life and taking the piss out of his personality.

    Being rather annoyed by this god, Yaksa, he was rather willing to be reincarnated quickly and be done with it. But he knew it would be important to know some stuff before that.

    "So how does this reincarnating work? Where am I going to reincarnate, what''s that world like? Any chance of some godly help?"

    "Well, usually your soul would be cleansed in this space... Leaving you as a pure soul, with no memories or attachments. But you see, the batch I want you to reincarnate withhave already been cleansed. Your soul was that damaged that it took way too long to repair. So call it luck, call it misfortune - but you''re going to be reincarnated with your memories intact. Mind you though, my world is vastly different than yours. Don''t be throwing inventions left and right because even though a god should not intervene in the mortal world, the development of my world is within my responsibilities, therefore I can intervene. I would have you struck down by lightning if I feel your crossing lines. So no railroads, steam machines, guns and the like."

    "Seems reasonable I suppose." Warren nodded.

    "You''re reincarnating in Constantia. A continent in Aerth. I know it sounds similar to Earth.For some odd reason humans tend to name their world the same. This world is somewhat similar to the xianxia novels you were thinking of earlier."

    An annoyed frown formed on Warren''s face. "Bastard still reading my mind. Giving me a false sense of security. Such an ass of a god. But at least it seems he has no ill intentions..."

    A smile formed on Yaksa''s aged and weathered face. As if Gandalf the white himself was laughing at a joke from Frodo.

    "Well, it''s rather funny to mess with you a bit. " He really looked like he enjoyed himself.

    "It''s a world where there are more dominant species than in your world. Dwarves, elves - the list of fantasy creatures goes on. You humans use this world''s energy, mana, to perform magic. Though you''re far from as proficient with it as elves. You compensate by breeding though, lots of humans roam the continent. The rest is for you to figure out on your own. You''ll reincarnate as a baby. I''ll plant your soul inside the womb of a pregnant woman. The fetus would usually die before it gets to the world, however, using your soul''s power after being here it will certainly survive. So it''s not like I''m killing any life form if you might think that. The fetus is like a bud, without a soul it will wither."

    Warren nodded "I think I can understand so far, as for cheats?"

    "Well, the humans on this world gain gifts from their inner desires and their experiences. They channel mana through their body to use these gifts. Some are battle related, some are entirely different. Since your body had been here longer than others, the capacity of your soul is larger than others. Since you''re the first human I''ve ever talked with, I will help you a bit. I''ll transform the desires and experiences of your former world to a gift. How''s that? Pretty awesome right?"

    This god seemed somewhat like an enthusiastic child wanted to get praised by adults. Perhaps he wasn''t all bad was Warren thinking. Still has a god complex though - we''ll, as a god that might also be somewhat understandable. Getting a so-called ''gift'' as a bonus was also pretty good.

    "Thanks, Yaksa, so, what is my gift?"

    "Well, you''ll find out! Bye!" Yaksa starting laughing as an extreme suction was felt throughout Warren''s body. He was suffocating, he felt like he was falling at the same time. His mind went crazy, he slowly panicked.

    ¡°YOU BASTARD, WARN ME OF THIS, GODDAMNIT!!" Warren tried yelling as he felt an extremely hard pull on his body. His words never left his throat due to the extreme suffocating pressure that was on his body. His mind''s started to numb as the world around him slowly turned dark...

 Chapter 2 : A second life! Being born is unpleasant!

    Chapter 2: A second life! How to use Appraisal!

    As the darkness around Warren slowly lifted and his consciousness started to return. He found himself unable to move, breath, or anything at all really. After a brief panic, he calmed down after coming to and understanding of the situation. He realized that although he couldn¡¯t move or breath, he''s not dying. The surrounding was warm, fuzzy. Feelings of intense protection pervaded his body. He thought back to what that Yaksa said:

    ¡°You''ll reincarnate as a baby. I''ll plant your soul inside the womb of a pregnant woman. The fetus would usually die before it gets to the world, however, using your soul''s power after being here it will certainly survive. So it''s not like I''m killing any life form if you might think that. The fetus is like a bud, without a soul it will wither."

    "Guess that bastard really did say such a thing. Conclusion: I¡¯m in the womb of my mother and I¡¯ll be here for a while then..¡±

    His mind once again grew fuzzy as he had burned the little energy his body holds.

    "I¡¯ve been conscious a few times now. I wonder when I¡¯ll be born in this world. Hope I won¡¯t be conscious during that."

    A chill ran down his small spine. It would be a very painful thing to experience. He suddenly found himself glad he couldn¡¯t remember the pain of his birth in his former life.

    It¡¯s seriously better to not be aware of the pain later. Like when you were younger and you broke a leg or arm. Truly horribly painful but after time passes it becomes hard to imagine how much pain you went through at that moment. However now with the consciousness of a 34-year old, experiencing birth would be... Crushingly painful? He couldn¡¯t imagine. He even made a silent prayer to Yaksa, asking for a quick delivery, painless for himself.

    ¡°Well, the bastard is probably just having fun with my misfortune. And like always, gods don¡¯t answer prayers. Don¡¯t really expect much from that god. Seems like an irresponsible prick.¡±

    He added that last part out of spite. He was seriously angry for being reincarnated so suddenly at the end of their conversation without any further information on his ¡®gift¡¯. Thinking Yaksa might be easy to provoke because of his somewhat odd personality of being

    sometimes serious, sometimes mischievous, he wanted to provoke Yaksa into answering. He. however. had no luck whatsoever in this. He¡¯ll have to find out what his ¡®gift¡¯ is as soon as he can. Reading novels in his free time had taught him how important these godsend powers can be. They could give the MC a definite advantage during his reincarnation. Massive amounts of mana, multiple elements to manipulate, summoning strong fighters. If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    Any of these made the MC a complete behemoth during his life, almost effortlessly sweeping the continents, creating their own legends. Having his very own greedy personality he somewhat wished for an OP cheat-like gift. During this pre-birth time, he started to think what he wanted to achieve this life. His former life ended with him living under a bridge. Not quite something he wanted to repeat. He was still rather attached to his former riches and life of comfort. However, he despised those above him coercing him into bad deeds. After thinking this through, over and over again he started to form a goal: ¡°I want to be wrestled free from the constraints of others. I want to live a comfortable and rewarding life. No more grinding for others. I¡¯ll live for myself. I¡¯ll gain the power to live for myself, by myself.¡±

    Needless to say, being alone with your thoughts for a long time can be a bit depressing. His thoughts warped from his own pride and his attachment to riches and power. He started craving for these things. He started to believe that if he had more power, more money, he wouldn¡¯t have ended under a bridge in his former life. His self-reflection was malfunctioning at some time. His thoughts spiraled out of control at some time. Only after once more being reminded of Yaksa he returned to some more behaved thoughts.

    ¡°Since there¡¯s a god. And I more or less gained this extra life on a whim of luck, I should make this a good life. Thinking back on my previous life, I can only see myself making bad decisions. I should properly reflect on this. But whenever thinking of it, I get immensely pissed of taking the fall. A full frontpage covering my exploits, including a shot of my face.. Ruined everything. At court. nobody even listened to me telling them at my superiors. The Lawyer even told me that the police investigation hadn¡¯t found any evidence whatsoever of me being coerced. He even told me that it would be better for me to plead guilty. Get over with it. Only later I found out he was also in defenseof those scumbag superiors. I guess he god a massive paycheck afterward. A corrupt police force, a crooked lawyer... Money truly is the root of all evil."

    "Though it also opens up the possibilities to do anything you¡¯d please. There¡¯s no absolute evil, your actions should determine what you are. Perhaps my former life made me evil. I don¡¯t know. Saving that poor girl at the end did seem to help me with reincarnating. Even Yaksa mentioned that it was the only good thing coming forth from my life. I wonder how my wife, well ex-wife and children are doing. Will they mourn their deceased father? Or would she marry another prick with money? Thinking back I misjudged her a lot. She dropped me the second things turned bad. My beloved children. I still want to believe in them. I hope they can forgive me for everything. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll ever know. Reincarnating on a different world.. I should focus on the here and now. Even though my memories are harsh to process, even after all these years they still haunt me. Perhaps only now do I have a chance to really start over. After everything that happened I wouldn¡¯t be able to live another good day on Earth. I should at least try to do better this time. Gather some karmic luck I suppose.¡±

    After several months, which when alone with your own thoughts seems like an eternity, Warren was reborn on Aerth! If he had learned speech at this moment, he would''ve been the first baby to come to this world cursing. His parents were happy though; A crying kid is a happy kid. He did however faint after a bit, unable to process the pain. Unable to even take a glimpse at his new parents.

 Chapter 3: Forging a path!

    Chapter 3: New Life and Beginnings

    Thinking back on his birth, shivers still went down his spine. He was sure he¡¯d develop a trauma at that point. After birth, there and then he swore to never be present at a delivery. The pain had taken a deep root in his memories.

    ¡°Perhaps getting reincarnated with your memories makes you conscious earlier. I definitely don¡¯t think anyone should remember his own birth. I even pitied mother at that time, she looked so happy ¨C yet so devastated. It¡¯s given me a whole new perspective on giving birth. I¡¯ve seen my kids getting born on Earth. But it has never been so vivid as this. Glad that even in this world I¡¯m a male. Giving birth just seems so unpleasant. When I was getting pushed through downwards towards the open world, I felt the constraints around me, the force exerted, me clumsily finding my way down. For me it was hell, but I guess it shouldn¡¯t have been any less painful for her. Since then I¡¯ve recognized mother as a person worthy of a ton of respect. Even made me miss my earthly mother a bit sometimes.¡±

    Warren, had come to terms with living in this new world while in the womb of his mother. However, he hadn¡¯t thought he would accept his parents as ¡®his genuine, real, blood related and beloved parents. He already had parents, that was how he thought. But at birth, he firmly decided to at least accept his Aerth mother. Through their mutual suffering, he had grown a bond with his mother. He also reckoned that being carried around in her belly for months helped a bit in growing that bond.

    Because of this, over the last few years, he had become what you¡¯d call a ¡®momma¡¯s boy¡¯.

    Not that Warren cared anyways. At this time, he was 7 years old. Coupled with his previous life and the mental strains he had gone through, he was mentally well developed.

    Due to some kind of luck, he had been named Warren by his parents at his birth. He felt rather happy to at least retain his name in this unfamiliar world. He vaguely had some suspicions that Yaksa had something to do with it. He had decided rather quickly to suppress his memories of his former life. He knew he needed to focus on the life in front of him. There was no way back, dying was in the end still dying. At times when his feelings were swayed, memories would however still pop up and haunt him for a bit. But for the most part, you could say he adapted to his new life pretty fast.

    His starting point in this life was rather decent. He even felt he was rather lucky. Loving parents and somewhat of a standing in society. No harsh youth working in a farmer¡¯s fields. His father was a retired army general with some prestige to his name. His father lived on the edges of the Copia kingdom for most of his life defending the kingdom from the invasion of the barbarian tribes in the East. His father told him he¡¯d served the army between his 14th and 38th winter.

    For some reason, they don¡¯t refer to years but survived winters. His mother told him that in the old days, winters were harsh and the kingdom was underdeveloped. Many of the people went through harsh winters, some even dying due to the cold. His father had met his mother during one of his tours in the East.

    Her mother told him that at that time his father had been the most handsome and most charming men in the entire Eastern continent. He had shrugged and quickly dodged the subject. He simply didn¡¯t want to hear a sweet and heartfelt story of how his father had won the heart of his mother. He still got the quick summary though ¨C his mother didn¡¯t let him off that easy. She was a herbalist living in one of the smaller villages near the border. His father was lightly wounded and sought out her help. She told him that he was such a wuss. After that he set sights on her, eventually taking her away and retiring to their village ¡°Easton¡±, far away from the border. His father had gained the position of chief of the local defense garrison for his exemplary behavior at the front.

    Warren had 2 elder brothers in this world: Terry and Constance. Awful names according to Warren. (and the author agrees, but deal with it!) His elder brothers had taken a lot of their father. Aspiring to at one point lead their own troops ¨C decimating barbarians at the border.

    ¡°Idiots... So young and already looking for ways to throw their lives away. I hope they don¡¯t do anything stupid and at least survive. They¡¯re still my brothers. But those war idolizing idiots only see fame and glory. Hardly even think of the hardships that come with being a soldier. Death, terror, wounds. As general you¡¯re also responsible for the well-being of the troops. But at least dad is teaching them, that knowledge might save their life a couple of times. I hope so...¡±

    His father had also wanted Warren to join in on the warring fun thinking his most sensible child would make a great general. But was flat out denied by Warren. He sincerely wanted to have a long and blissful life. Throwing it out on someone else his whims was something he¡¯d definitely wanted to avoid.

    In order to appease his father, he did every so much time join in on those meetings. He at least wanted to have some peace in his household. His father had been hugely disappointed after being so harshly denied. Warren understood his father cared a lot for him and tried to pave a way for a good livelihood later. But he couldn¡¯t relent here! He had to forge another path! No glory to find for me at the battlefield were Warren¡¯s thoughts.

    He started planning for another career directions several months after denying the burning wish of his father. He knew in order to get the approval, he would need to show his talents so they would support him in his decision to find luck elsewhere. This was the reason why he still went to those war meetings of his father. To impress him with quick wits, to show him he could be more than a general on the battlefield.

    He would at all times point at logistics, funds, losses, and gains. His father had after several of those meetings gone to his study. Warren had followed to know the thoughts of his father. He had stood in front of the heavy wooden door of the study. Even with the mass of the door and the sturdy walls of their house, the cries of his father were still very audible.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    ¡°Such a smart son, such a good son, such a genius. Gods above, why must you be so cruel? So much talent yet refuses to follow the martial path! Why!? Why must my son be different! God knows I love and cherish my sons, but heavens, why can¡¯t he be like me!? I know he¡¯d make a great general... I know that he¡¯d do the things that I couldn¡¯t. I cannot teach him anything else... I¡¯m not fit for such a son. What should I do, gods of olds, help me finds a path for my son! I can¡¯t bear to have him suffer.¡±

    Muffled and crying sounds, smothering and heavy breathing, sighs and cries came from that room for the entire afternoon of that particular day. It was at that moment his father too had won a place in the heart of Warren. Even though the man was stoic, hard to talk to, harsh in his critics, he had truly shown love towards Warren and even Warren would hold such love in regards. He could even vaguely relate to him,\ as he too had been a parent at one time. He knew his father had paced about the entire afternoon, wracking his brains to help his son secure a future. From that point on, his father had been more open to different career paths. He even went as far as to have a talk about the future with his at that time 6-year-old kid. Warren had truly been surprised the old¡¯ man had such a progressive approach to the situation. He felt taken serious ¨C something hard to imagine when your outer appearance is that of a 6-year-old kid. This too touched the heart of Warren. He remembered that talk with his father well. You could say It was etched in his memories.

    ¡°Son, I know you don¡¯t wish to be like your father. I can see it in your eyes. You don¡¯t wish for glory on the battlefield. You¡¯re different from your brothers. You¡¯re smarter, in many ways. I sometimes find it hard to believe that you¡¯re only six years old. I mean, there are veteran commanders that take their supply line less seriously than you do. You must know it¡¯s hard on your old¡¯ man. I can¡¯t teach you more than warfare. I¡¯ve done nothing else in my life. My dearest wish is for all my sons to be happy, to have a good future. I worry for you, little man. Your brothers will be fine. I¡¯ll get them a safe spot somewhere not too close to the border. I¡¯ll prepare them well, use my connections to get them to go through the military camp training. But you son, I don¡¯t know what you wish to do. I don¡¯t know how you¡¯ll provide for your family later. You¡¯re young, but you must have some interest in some occupations? Like old Burke the smith? Or like Gallen the tavern master? Or like Vaswel, traveling as a merchant and trading over the continent? Tell me, son, what is it that you like? What is it you want to do later?¡±

    At this point, Warren knew he had succeeded. He found a way to forge his own path with his father¡¯s approval. All he had to do was pick what he wanted. But he knew rather little of what occupations did well on the continent. So he decided to use his youth as an excuse for a delay. Knowing it wouldn¡¯t harm him in the long run. Not to mention, as a six-year-old kid, these kinds of things shouldn¡¯t be chosen in haste.

    ¡°Father, bloodshed, and cruelties on the battlefield scare me. I heard from Vaswel how many people die at the border. He said you were lucky you lived through so many years in the army. I don¡¯t want to die. I want to live¡± Yep, as a six-year-old, you can definitely manipulate your dad when telling him you¡¯re scared of something. Using Vaswel, the merchant, as a cover for his story. Vaswel was a traveling merchant that once a year passed through their village. His father would never grow suspicious of his story as he had been through town on his own quite a few times on errands for his mother.

    ¡°He tells interesting stories of the continent! Like about the Elves in the north! And the dwarves in the southwest! He swears he had seen them! His life seems interesting. But I simply don¡¯t know enough of this world to know what to do. I know it¡¯s so big. Maybe I can be like Vaswel. Or maybe I could be like Gallen! He¡¯s really nice!¡± Gallen gave him some small sweets every time he went to the tavern so Warren had quickly put this man on his ¡°nice list¡±. Even in his former life, he was a bit of a sweet tooth.

    His father had looked with an asking gaze the whole time Warren had been talking. After he was done with his small ¡®performance,¡¯ his father had a thoughtful look, his brows making a V sign on his usually so stern face. Warren knew his father was thinking what he could do now.

    ¡°Warren, I¡¯ll get you a teacher. Someone who can help you learn about this world. I¡¯ll ask around a bit to find someone with much knowledge of the continent. He should also help you learn about politics, history, and arithmetic. As a merchant, even I know that it is important to have a good grasp on these things. Reading and writing we wpuld normally start teaching you when you are eight. This also when your first gift develops. It is an important moment in your life! We''ll start earlier with you, as it might help you find a path to walk."

    "However! You must not neglect your duties to your mother. Also, you must be present at all the war sessions with both your brothers. You can still learn from it. I also think it would be good if you learn some things for self-defense. Your brothers are already getting taught the sword by me, and the bow by Uncle Ben. You to shall start on this. Only if you agree to work hard on this will I let you learn witha teacher. It is important that I know there¡¯s a career path I¡¯m certain of that you can take. So even if you don¡¯t want to, I will have you trained for it.¡±

    Warren wholeheartedly accepted this proposal. He knew this was the chance he had been waiting for. Learning about the continent and the people and the written language would definitely help him along in his new life. Having a well-trained body also didn¡¯t sound like a bad idea. He¡¯d take this deal even if it had much more disadvantages. From that point on, he knew he had tons of things to do and learn. He was genuinely looking forward to it.

    Trying to pretend to be a kid to his parents, while still impressing them so he could get the opportunity to learn had been harsh, he planned to as quickly as possible impress his teacher with arithmetic and writing and reading. This way he¡¯d be able to more quickly have more time to learn about the world. After a year worth of military training and much begging on his part to his father, he would finally start his first lessons with a teacher. It had taken a full year for his father to invite a special teacher in the capital. He knew his father had worked very hard to make it happen. Using all his connections, and even some money to make sure it would work out in the end.

    This brings us up to speed with Warren''s life! Finally, he could start looking forward!

 Chapter 4 : The arrival of ones teacher

    It took a full year for father to invite this special teacher from the capital. I wonder what he¡¯ll be like. Warren was looking at the road heading north out of the village. His father was standing beside him. His father had even dressed up for the occasion; wearing his chainmail - with a leathered black top over it, and his treasured single-handed sword hanging in its straps by his waist. After his retirement, he hadn¡¯t worn such an outfit anymore. Standing behind his son, one could easily imagine how valiant he had been in his prime. He even seemed a little happier wearing his battle gear. Warren even found his father slightly intimidating. The reason they were waiting at the northern entrance of the village was the impending arrival of his new teacher; father had received notice two days ago from a messenger that the Capitals caravan would be arriving this afternoon. The moment his father had received the news and read through the letter that came with it he had smiled and started instructing the households men to prepare for the arrival of the esteemed teacher.

    Warren had simply ignored the busy people that were working hard for the arrival of his teacher.

    He had however made a mental note on how important this arrival was to his father. So like the good ¨C well behaved son he was he had earnestly prepared himself in the morning to be at his best when the teacher would first lay eyes on him. He too had a sword strapped around his waist. In the past year, his father had taught him the basics of swordsmanship and ordered him to have his sword with him at all times. This would help him get used to the weight on his waist. After some time he had come to find this weight reassuring. He felt this too might be another trick his father pulled to convince him to join the army in the end. But none the less he still wore it. He, however, was still deadset on forging a different path for himself.

    The northbound winding roads stretched through the lush green hilled landscape and seemed to disappear in the horizon. Behind the gently rolling hills, the northern forests could be seen. After some time, a small dot appeared at the horizon that was slowly making its way to town. Warren was peering in the distance wondering what the caravan would look like. As the dot moved closer he got a view on the incoming caravan. The caravan was led by a luxury carriage and behind trailed several wagons. The carriage was made from wood and ironwork and was richly adorned. The wagons were like the ones that merchant Vaswel used; simple wooden carts with a leather canvas on top. The caravan was protected by several mercenaries. You could easily tell they were mercenaries due to their mismatched gear. His father had explained the trip would take roughly 3 weeks to make. To help his teacher father had paid him in advance so he could hire some mercenaries to protect him from harm during the trip.

    As the caravan approached the father and son duo the caravan pulled to a stop. The oldest of the mercenaries came up to them. ¡°General Oakheart I presume?¡±  His father nodded and made some small talk with the mercenary.

    ¡°Alright, that¡¯s fine then. We¡¯ve held up our end of the bargain. Another 75 silvers upon safe delivery.¡± His father had already prepared a leather pouch for the mercenary and handed it over to the merchant. To ensure good service mercenaries would usually be paid in installments. In this case 50% from the get-go and 50% upon safe delivery. In total, they netted 150 silvers. A gold coin and a half!

    There were 15 mercenaries so if they¡¯d split it up evenly each mercenary had made 10 silvers. Each silver was worth 10 coppers. Above silver, there were gold coins, but they were rarely seen in the countryside. Each gold coin was worth a hundred silvers. Warren had concluded that a small household would need about a single silver to live for a month. For a 3 week trip, the mercenaries were rather well paid. However, they still had to travel back or to another place where they could get a new assignment. They also had to take care of their equipment as they relied on them to make a living.

    After a quick count, the mercenary nodded. ¡°Pleasure doing business general. If you¡¯d ever have a need of mercenaries please think of us, the silver silence.¡±  He then quickly moved to the carriage and said some quick goodbyes to the still mysterious teacher. Then once more nodded to father and mounted his horse and started to move to his companions. It seemed like they would immediately ride off in the distance again. While being distracted by his thoughts the door of the carriage had been opened and a tall well-dressed man stood in the doors opening. His grey-silver hair and his friendly smile made his face wrinkle up adding in some additional years to his already somewhat weary face.

    His father made a friendly wave and tapped Warren on his shoulder. Together they moved towards the old scholar.

    ¡°Gerald! You truly surprised me with that letter of yours. You¡¯re looking healthy, maybe retirement did you some good after all. This is your genius son I presume?¡± The man addressed his father in a familiar and well-hummed voice. Warren immediately knew their relationship wouldn¡¯t be as simple as he¡¯d imagined it would be prior to this meeting.

    His father made a sound that seemed to express both amusement as annoyance.

    ¡°Robert you old bugger. Seems like the capital did you well too ¨C I can see some healthy fat on your body! I¡¯ve been doing good right here. This is my son Warren, the one I asked you to teach. He might be smarter than your average Joe but he needs some proper education.¡±

    Robert chuckled ¡°Well, you did write he was driving you nuts ¨C not wanting to join the army and all. Finally, a kid in the old Oakheart family that has more brain than muscle.¡±

    His father rolled his eyed and answered. ¡°Seems like you¡¯re in a good mood. How was the trip? Took you long enough to finish business in the capital old¡¯ friend.¡± Trying to divert the attention on whatever he had written in his letters. It seemed his father had indeed pleaded really hard on his behalf ¨C but felt slightly embarrassed by whatever he had written. Warren could relate slightly to it.

    ¡°Well, the capital has been really busy as of late. Courts getting cleansed by the king for a bit causing a lot of unrest among scholars and the nobles. Those matters aren¡¯t simple and as an official, I couldn¡¯t simply abandon my place at such a time you know.¡±

    ¡°Haven¡¯t had news from the capital in a long time. We live in a rather small town. Only the traveling merchants sometimes bring news from the capital. However, they too have been away from the capital for some time as well. Didn¡¯t know about the cleansing, but I doubt we¡¯ll notice anything out here anyway. Let¡¯s move to the house, so you can get settled in and we can have a good chat.¡±

    Robert nodded and made his way back to the carriage, whilst passing the coachmen he instructed him to follow Warren and his father as they made their way into the village.

    Father and son led the caravan through the village gates, his father getting greetings left and right from the gatekeepers. They were his subordinates so it was standard procedure to greet him as he was a superior.

    They took the main road towards the centre of the village before taking a left into the villa district where their house was situated. In this world, a strict hierarchy was still in place. As a family of generals, the Oakheart family had been given the title of baron due to services to the country. They were hereditary nobles; true nobles. However, throughout history, none of the forefathers had gone to the capital to claim a piece of land to govern. As a family of generals, they did not have interest in land. They couldn¡¯t govern their lands anyways if they had claimed them. Nobles who opted not to take lands would be granted a yearly income by the king. The reason was very practical: if they¡¯d claim land it would make things difficult. They¡¯d need to find suitable land worthy of a baron whilst the land had already been divided amongst other nobles. Nobles that had governed these lands would not look kindly upon this unwelcome intrusion. The nobles that held much land were also senior nobles; the king needed their backing to keep comfortable on his crown.

    As they approached the mansion Warren saw his mother standing outside to receive them and their esteemed guess. Along the path leading to the front entrance the servants were neatly lined up, their faces somewhat tensed. They¡¯d never had to attend such a formal event; leading to them becoming a bit nervous. This amused Warren, as the esteemed teacher had not made the impression that he would stand on ceremony. All the more as he seemed on such friendly terms with his father. He chuckled as he saw one of the maidservants quickly organize her dress once more. His father smiled at his wife and did a quick greeting to the present staff. As the caravan came to a standstill the door of the carriage flung open and the old grey haired scholar stepped out.

    ¡°You look as good as ever, Rosaly. I still wonder what Gerald has done to deserve you. Even the years can¡¯t make your beauty wither.¡±  A big smile adorned the face of Robert.

    Warren once more took note to the familiarity in his speech. Seems like he knows mother as well. He does have a glib tongue. Even I can learn from him, even after spending years perfecting the arts of making deals. He made a mental note to try and pry in their joint history. As a momma¡¯s boy, he didn¡¯t want this man to become ¡®to close¡¯ to his mother.

    ¡°Seems like you¡¯re doing well as usual Robert. Even a good 20 years in the capital don¡¯t seem to wear you down. You¡¯re still as enthusiastic and happy as I remember you¡± His mother smiled while exchanging a good handshake with Robert. For a second he had thought Robert would go in for a hug. But conventions in the kingdom of Copia were not in line with the modern world. Excessive bodily contact was frowned upon in the upper circles. A good thing Warren thought, don¡¯t want him all giddy over mother. The trio of adults started making some conversations. Warren had been listening in on the side, but quickly found it was just some merrymaking words, some flattery, and small talk. He wasn¡¯t that interested; therefore his thoughts were distracted as his eyes spotted his brothers. Both Terrence and Constance had dressed up for the occasion. However they both looked completely different: Terrence had dressed up to look like father; a chainmail, leather guards and a sword at his waist. Constance, however, had decided to wear his noble attire; blue cloth long short that fell over his knees, richly decorated with silver linings. On his back fluttered a rich blue cloth cape that fell to his waist. His belt was made of leather but had silver inlays, a ceremonial dagger was worn on his waist as was custom among nobles.

    Both brothers were softly arguing; trying not to attract the attention. As Warren came closer he heard Terrence making fun of Constance.

    ¡° I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever seenyou so dressed up, you think the teacher will take a pretty maiden daughter with him? You look like an idiot¡± Terrence was having a laugh, enjoying the fact that he could take the piss out of his elder brother. Terrence was ten whilst Constance was 12. Accordingly, he was the natural choice to inherit the hereditary Baron title. Warren chuckled, seems like his brother was trying to at least act the part for once.."

    ¡°Terrence, you¡¯re a 10-year-old dressed up as a knight when we¡¯re receiving a honored guest. You¡¯re the idiot, not me, idiot.¡±  Constance''s voice sounded muffled as he forced down his embarrassment and retorted to his brother.

    ¡°Well, you both look like idiots to me. Nothing changed there.¡± Warren added himself into the conversation whilst suppressing a laugh.

    ¡°Warren you dressed up too, so shut it. I¡¯m your elder brother! So you should side with me. This moron is wearing chainmail that he can barely hold up.¡± Constance responded whilst making an angry look, he didn¡¯t like getting ganged up by his younger brothers.

    ¡°Shut up Constance! I can totally wear this chainmail. I¡¯m not as weak as you think. At least I look cool whilst you got some weird cape fluttering at your back.¡± Terrence retorted

    ¡°You¡¯re both making a fool out of yourself though. Teacher is just a friend of dad. No need for ceremony. Oh and he doesn¡¯t have a pretty daughter with him if that¡¯s what you were hoping for.¡± Warren decided to fan the flames a bit, he always enjoyed teasing his brothers.

    ¡°Damned Constance, you said we needed to dress up for this esteemed guest. You¡¯ve been annoying me with it for weeks now.¡± It seemed like Terence had only dressed up after being pestered by big brother Constance. Now that is was deemed unnecessary he definitely wanted to take a verbal swing to Constance. He, however, he still suppressed his swearing and lowered his voice so he wouldn¡¯t get in trouble with father who was still standing nearby.

    ¡°How was I supposed to know! Dad¡¯s been busy arranging for this teacher ¨C¡°If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

    ¡°His name is Robert.¡± Warren interjected to annoy his brother even further.

    ¡°Right. Anyways, I thought he was really important. Dad¡¯s been spending a lot of time to invite him over from the capital. Thought it was natural to dress up.¡± Whilst saying this his faced drooped. He seemed to be disappointed that he dressed up for nothing important. Or perhaps just because he lost face in front of his younger brothers.

    It seemed his parents and Robert had gone through all pleasantries and were going to move into the mansion. His father¡¯s voice could be heard instructing the servants to unload the carts and help Robert settle in the mansion. His father had beforehand told everyone the esteemed teacher would be living in the east wing. Warren wondered why his father had been so mysterious about this teacher. His father had walked up to the three quarreling brothers and beckoned them to get inside the mansion. The group then started to make their way inside.

    ¡°Robert is going to get settled in the east wing. I want you guys to behave, okay? No mischief now. When he¡¯s settled in I¡¯ll properly introduce him. I guess we¡¯ll do it over dinner.¡± Their father then dismissed them, telling them to go play since he was going to be busy until dinner.

    At dinner all three brothers had taken up a seat well before dinner was served. The boys were always called by servants to attend dinner 20 minutes prior to dinner being served. Usually, they¡¯d one by one join in at the table. The boys would normally be just on time or even come in late as their parents hadn¡¯t been strict on these things. Things were different this time! The three boys were eager to learn about the newcomer. Different than his brothers ¨C Warren was eager and anxious for a different reason: this was his teacher! Whatever he was getting taught was decided by the plump former official from the capital. He couldn¡¯t wait to learn more about this world of magic! However ¨C he had no idea what to expect from his lessons! His father had told him he would probably learn algebra, history and the like. But he hadn¡¯t been sure and seemed to not be bothered by that vagueness. Something that had been gnawing at Warren. As a former 21<sup>st</sup> century resident he was well aware how important education was!

    His father smiled at the sight of his now seemingly well-behaved children. He chuckled, he knew these three could cause tons of troubles if they were in cahoots making plans. Terrence had once been beaten up after trying to impress a girl. Constance, as a big brother, had then taken the assailant out ¨C even breaking an arm and knocking out his teeth. He had to make apologies and bow his head countless time even after paying for all the expenses. Warren was even worse ¨C he had a snappy mouth and wouldn¡¯t keep sitting still if he was slighted. However, as a smart kid, he would hardly be found out. The times he was found out were complete dramas though. As these events quickly went through his head he saw Robert taking place at the table.

    Warren took note of Robert taking a seat at the table and threw a wistful glance at his father, urging his father to give his introduction. Seeing the nervous and expectant look on Warren¡¯s face his father chuckled once more. He hadn¡¯t seen his child like this before ¨C he liked it, he always felt his son had been trying to mature to quick. He figured it had to do with his two elder brothers.

    His father glanced around the table, as he sat at the head of the table he found his wife sitting at his left hand and Robert at his right. Warren had naturally taken place next to his mother, whilst both his brothers had taken a seat across of him. They smartly left out a seat next to them for Robert as this was proper decorum for an esteemed guest.

    ¡°Well, since you little ruffians are on time for once, I think it¡¯s about time to properly introduce Robert. Robert is an old friend from the military. Where I strived to become general, Robert took service for different reasons. He¡¯s the third child of a senior noble family; his proper name would be Robert Greenland. As landed nobles, they hold some lands up north of the capital. After our joint time in the army, he decided to serve the government as an official. It¡¯s been roughly 20 years since I¡¯ve last seen Robert. Because of this, I was unsure whether I¡¯d be able to invite him over. Luckily he still remembers old favors and chose to settle down from his life in the capital. After 20 years of life in the capital, I didn¡¯t know how much our relationship was still worth and whether he¡¯ changed. That¡¯s the reason why I¡¯ve been calling him esteemed teacher to you little ruffians. But even in this small time, I¡¯ve found nothing changed at all. So you can address him as Uncle. However, if he¡¯s teaching then follow his rules. His words are my words.¡±  His father nodded to Robert, signing him that he could introduce himself as well.

    ¡°What you¡¯re father says holds truth. However, forget the noble family lineage, Nobles can be a pest most of the time. You can call me uncle as your father suggested. However, when I¡¯m giving class you are to call me Teacher or Master. At least this little formality should exist when teaching.

    I was tied up in the capital for a long time because of some issues regarding the court. Warren I¡¯ll be mostly teaching you, so I expect you in my office at 8¡¯o clock tonight so we can discuss some important matters. When not in class, feel free to ask anything. As long as I¡¯m capable I¡¯ll try and explain things. I don¡¯t care much for decorum or formalities so I suggest we just eat and get to know each other over time.¡± Robert then proceeded to cut his beef steak with manners belonging to a noble. Not even waiting till Warren¡¯s father had approved ¨C he had immediately proved that he didn¡¯t care much for customs.

    ¡°Once more my thanks to Robert for taking up the task. We should eat before it gets cold. Warren, you¡¯ll get your questions answered tonight.¡±  His father then too proceeded to cut his beef and eat.

    Later that evening Warren made his way to the East wing. ¡°Should¡¯ve asked where in the east wing he set up his office. Or he should¡¯ve just told me.¡± He grumbled his mood worsening at the thought of searching the entire west wing for the office. He didn¡¯t move around a lot in the house, so he was slightly amazed by the actual size of the mansion. He had stuck to his room, the main living, the kitchen and he had dropped by some servant¡¯s rooms when he wanted a night snack. He trained with his father outside in the garden. The east wing was new to him. ¡°Why do we even need this much space.¡±  Another grumble came from his lips.

    He was walking along the long corridor that led to the east wing. Unlike the rest of the building, this wing seemed to have come to life suddenly. He noticed the different servants cleaning out rooms and mopping floors. It seemed like the entire eastern wing would be cleaned out. Much more than a couple of rooms like he had expected. Then again, there were three carts loaded with goods. ¡°Perhaps that man truly does need a lot of space¡± he mused.

    At the end of the corridor, he took a left, leading him to an atrium where a richly adorned wooden stair would take him up the east wing. He had asked directions to one of the servants and though this servant knew not where the office was situated, he did mention that most of the stuff had gone to up to the third story. This made Warren wonder why the ground floor rooms where being cleaned out. As he inquired the servant told him,fatherwas going to hire more servants to support Robert. Warren had been somewhat surprised but quickly acknowledged the decision. Someone with the status of Robert should have some servants, nothing weird about it.

    As he moved to the third story he quickly found the office he was looking for. A silver plate had been put up the third door he walked past, it was neatly engraved with calligraphy ¡°Office¡±.

    ¡°This man truly moves fast. Been here for a few hours and completely occupied the third floor, even has this plate up at his office.¡± Warren mused as he knocked on the thick oaken door.

    Roberts somewhat tired voice sounded ¡°Come in!¡±.

    Warren then cautiously entered the office, after doing a quick check on his clothes.

    ¡°Teacher, your disciple, Warren, has come as you¡¯d asked.¡±

    Warren considered this his first true meeting with his teacher, apparently, he was going to get some desperately needed answers so he could finally quell the voices in his head.

    (* Author * : Sounds sinister, but I mean to say that his mind is simply been occupied with questions about what he was going to learn )

    Robert had been standing next to some bookcases, several crates next to him seemingly filled with books. He put the book in his hands on one of the shelves and walked behind the desk that had was set up in the middle of the room. Robert then gestured for Warren to take a seat across the desk as he himself sat down in a comfortable looking leather seat.

    ¡°Well, there must be a lot of questions on your mind. So let¡¯s first get rid of those before we go on with the important things.¡± Robert looked inquisitively towards Warren with an expectant face.

    ¡°Yes teacher, first of all, what are you going to teach me?¡±

    ¡°Good question. You must have some suspicions, you¡¯re father should¡¯ve told you one or another as well but I understand why you want a definite answer to that question. First of all, I¡¯m going to ascertain how much knowledge you have at this moment and from there on out I¡¯ll plan your lessons.

    You must know that I¡¯m new to teaching as well, so it¡¯s going to be quite a novel sensation. I¡¯ll focus on teaching you general knowledge; increasing your vocabulary, history, topography, arithmetic¡¯s, politics, anything that comes in handy... As a concession to your father, you¡¯ll still have to learn military knowledge and swordsmanship from him. But that¡¯s not too bad either, you¡¯ll learn things that come in handy in all fields of work.¡± He then proceeded to pull on a rope hanging near his desk. This was connected to the lower grounds, there, a bell would ring. This would alert servants that he wished for something.

    His face then became serious and added: ¡°My method of teaching might differ from others, you¡¯ll have practical assignments that you¡¯ll have to complete within a given time.¡±

    Warren nodded. This much he had expected. He also liked the practical aspect ¨C doing things would give a much richer experience than just being told things. He also liked that the man elaborated as much as he could. He had also been nodding in agreement with taking tests to ascertain his knowledge. Starting from scratch would be time-consuming. His plan was simple; use his modern knowledge to his advantage! He¡¯d ace every algebra test and get on with the pressing matters.

    A silence fell in the room as both looked at each other. Robert had once again donned an expectant look as if waiting for more questions. Things started to get slightly awkward as a wry smile formed on Warren¡¯s face. He was used to having a glib tongue but at this point, he had no clue what to do or where to go at. Noticing his predicament Robert softly coughed.

    ¡°Right, well. Let¡¯s start with the important things then. First of all, what is it that you want to do in the future? ¡°

    Black lines were forming at the back of Warren¡¯s face. He had seen this coming, but he had not prepared! He knew this was going to be awkward. His mind was churning ¨C Should I just say anything ¨C should I say I don¡¯t know. He pondered in silence for a couple of seconds

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Teacher. The world is wide. I don¡¯t know of many things. I just don¡¯t want to throw my life away on someone else¡¯s whim.¡±  YES. The same excuse as he used on his father. He knew it wasn¡¯t quite the answer you¡¯d expect from a 7 ¨C almost 8-year-old. But he could hardly put on a thick face and yell ¡°FIREMEN, POLICEMAN, SURGEON¡±. He really didn¡¯t know what he¡¯d wish to become in this life. He only knew his goal: a comfortable life.

    ¡°You¡¯re father informed me of that. I thought you just didn¡¯t want to join the army. I figured you¡¯d at least have some ideas as your father kept bragging you¡¯re rather bright. A genius he calls you.¡± Robert chuckled near the end of his sentence.

    ¡°In all those years I really haven¡¯t heard your father brag much so I take him for his words. Since you really have no idea I¡¯ve got a proposal for you.¡±

    Warren nodded, he was quite intrigued to hear the proposal. He figured it should be good, even though Robert talked an looked like any other old¡¯ geezer with a friendly talk, Warren had reminded himself Robert had quite a background. Grew up in a big noble family and at least a decent career as an official, otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have been held back by his responsibilities so long.

    ¡°Good. I¡¯ve promised your dad to teach you until you can get going on your own two feet. You don¡¯t strike me as a kid who¡¯d work hard his whole life for little gain. So, we can lose all jobs involving hard labor. You¡¯ve got brains so you should use them. Regardless of what you will become in the future for you to have smooth sailing, it would be important to be a well learned individual. Every year at the capital there¡¯s an imperial examination. This examination decides whether or not your eligible to enter the Descarta University. Descarta is famed for teaching all the greatest minds of this time.¡±

    A silence fell as a knock was heard on the door. After Robert¡¯s permission, a rather old looking servant entered. Warren recognised him as old man Herbert. He had taken care of him and his brother when they were younger. He¡¯d entertain them with stories of dragons and heroes. He quite liked this old geezer but he hadn¡¯t seen him much lately due to all the chores he had stapled up recently.

    ¡°You called, esteemed guest?¡±  His somewhat old and dry voice rang through the office.

    Robert nodded ¡°Yes I¡¯d like some good ginseng tea, and could you please instruct someone to draw a hot bath for me. After this is finished I¡¯d like to recuperate from the long trip. As comfortable as the carriage looks, after some days it¡¯s truly horrible.¡± Robert his usual longwinded way of talking answered. Herbert nodded in acknowledgment and gave a quick smile and an encouraging nod to Warren. He carefully closed the door on his way out.

    As the door closed, Robert continued where he left off as if nothing had interrupted him earlier. This to some amazement of Warren. Robert is really hard to side-track or so he thought.

    ¡°They test on many fields and only those with a score over 700 out of 1000 are accepted in the academy. Those with a score over 850 will go to a special class. And the geniuses among geniuses with a score above 925 will get personal guidance. All nobles with somewhat competent children will send them this examination ¨C your father excluded as he¡¯s always been hung up on the army.¡±

    Warren nodded, that did seem like a good opportunity. A place where he could find some status, make a name and after graduating such a prestigious school there should be enough ways to earn steady money.

    As Warren was warming up to this idea and already imagining a glorious future as a rich philanthropist Robert started to chuckle ¡°Don¡¯t go imagining too much for now kid. The greatest geniuses of all Copia will congregate at the examination. You might be smart for a kid at a backwater place as Easton but you¡¯re way behind on the true elite. The nobles start teaching their kids at 5, put all effort in them so they can enter the academy and gain face for their family. Basically, your starting point is shit compared to them.¡±

    Robert¡¯s words came crashing into Warrens fantasies as an avalanche on a sunny day. He shrugged whilst thinking ¡°Well, those kids don¡¯t have the modern knowledge or my 34 years of extra experience. We¡¯ll see whether those spoiled nobles will be better than me.¡± He had unconsciously already regarded himself as a genius among geniuses. For some odd reasons he also had some bad opinions regarding nobles as he associated them with arrogant rich pricks. In Easton, they didn¡¯t have many noble families so he completely based it on his knowledge of novels and some history lessons he had countless years ago.

    Seeing the frown on Warren¡¯s face Robert picked up his story again.

    ¡°No need for panic, you¡¯ll just have to work twice as hard as those spoiled brats and make up for the lost time. Anyways, it¡¯s a great opportunity. Graduating might actually set you up for life and there¡¯s countless of good connections to be made. The test has 12 subjects, each contributing at most 100 points.

    Overall fitness, History, War tactics, Physics, Chemistry, Algebra, Philosophy, General knowledge, Medicine, Applied theory, Liberal arts.

    Robert gave a quick rundown of each subject and Warren questioned things he didn¡¯t understand. The night crept by until another knock was heard at the door. Herbert once more entered after getting permission. ¡°Esteemed guest, your bath has been drawn is awaiting you. I humbly suggest you use it now that it is still hot.¡± Robert nodded affirmatively and sent Herbert on his way again.

    ¡°Well, it was getting late anyway. So, let¡¯s round this up so I can get these old bones to rest and recover some energy for tomorrow.¡± He slowly got up from his chair and walked towards the door. Warren with newfound respect for his teacher opened the door and they both made their way into the hall, they bid goodbye at the stairs and as Warren descended he heard the most exciting thing of the entire night.

    ¡°Right, Warren, I almost forget. During the examination, they¡¯ll also determine the grade of your gift. This is a rather important happening. Since you¡¯re almost eight your gift should be developed soon. I always think they resemble the personality of their owner. Your brothers got warlike gifts, you probably would get something more interesting than temporary blown up muscles I think.¡± Robert chuckled ¡°We should talk about that tomorrow.¡± Then once more turned around after a quick wave of goodbye and walked towards where the bathroom would be.

    Finally, a lead on his gifts! He had been so absorbed earlier he had forgotten to ask about this crucial piece of information! He only had some basic information on it, now it seems he would finally have a chance to learn about these magical gifts!

 Chapter 5 : Gifts and Assignments

    ¡°We should talk about that tomorrow.¡± Robert had briefly mentioned his awaiting gift, making Warren¡¯s blood boil and then Robert quickly waved him goodbye to get to his warm bath that had been waiting for him.

    This one sentence was being repeated in his mind throughout the night.

    From the second he continued to walk down the stairs, leaving the third floor of the East Wing behind him his mind had gone into overdrive.

    When he tried to calm down in his room his old habits started to kick in. Habits from his former life, habits that hadn¡¯t been present up to this present moment. The occasional stretch of his hand, the touching of his chin, his tout lips when thinking, all these habits had exposed his excitement when he was pacing back and forth in his room. Even though he thoroughly suppressed his memories of his former life, in his excitement certain habits and patterns had once more resurfaced. He had spent the night thinking about the possibilities.

    All that he knew was the basics about gifts. Gifts are separated into three main divisions and countless subdivision. The main divisions are split in: Martial Gifts, Nature Gifts, and Auxiliary Gifts.

    Martial Gifts mostly enhance your physical powers. Skin as tough as stone, bursts of extraordinary power or abilities that otherwise enhance your fighting prowess.

    Nature Gifts are gifts very special and rare. Nature gifts, give the user the possibility to communicate with the elemental world. Their gifts can vary from very useless to extremely helpful.

    Commanding elements like fire or earth would instantly make the user soar to the clouds.

    This could lead to massive fighting strengths or the ability to make lands more fertile.

    However, some of these nature gifts are useless; the ability to see heat, even though connected to the same fire element, would be considered useless.

    However, Warren had already see worth in the Nature Gifts that he had heard about. The ability to see heat would be greatly helpful when one worked as a smith. Perhaps if the user was able to discern heat signatures of people he would be of extreme help in scouting missions. So far Warren had determined that the worth of the gift varied depending on the way the gift was used. His thinking however, was completely in line with the modern world ¨C the civilization of this world was still hell-bent on their old ways. If they would see no immediate gain they would consider the gift useless.

    Thirdly there are Auxiliary Gifts. These gifts give people an edge in their field of profession.

    The gift of heat detection could be considered Auxiliary in some ways but because of its connection to the elemental world, it was still considered nature¡¯s gift.

    A famous example was the ability to do the mental mapping. This Gift had developed within a young hunter in a village near the border. As he joined the army he had quickly ascended the ladder of success as his gift was crucial to the commanders. As a scout, he would visit the terrains ahead, upon return he could use his gift to give a complete three-dimensional projection of the scouted area. His ability would quickly allow him to manipulate the projection based upon his will. With his help, the planning of upcoming battles as well as simulations of tactics he had significantly contributed on various battlefields before becoming a general himself. His legend was spread as propaganda from the capital to encourage youngsters to join the army. The obvious goal was to recruit useful talents.

    Without any proper sleep, he had joined the rest of the family earlier then he would¡¯ve on any other occasion. The dark bags under his eyes betrayed his sleepless nights, his eyes only barely open he sat down at the long table. As he slowly, but unsteadily, sat himself down on his designated chair, his father¡¯s way too loud voice reverberated through the room. Doing a great job at scaring the crap out of the just barely wake Warren. In his reaction he knocked the water-filled glass in front of him across the table, spilling its content. In turn making his father laugh with his clumsiness.

    His booming voice had instantly woken the half sleeping Warren as he leaped from his chair in a momentary slip of confusion. His mind had been so dazed he hadn¡¯t even processed the content of his father''s words. He shot an annoyed glance at his father, knowing he had intentionally provoked his reaction.

    ¡°Well, you¡¯re awake now aren¡¯t you?¡± His father answered his glance with a teasing voice, even pinking a sole tear away from the corner of his eyes. Warren could see his smug face and couldn¡¯t help but mentally sneer that his father was still a child. Obviously temporarily denying that he currently was a child himself.

    ¡°What kept you awake? You look even worse than you usually do.¡± His father continued with the same smug face, his voice dripping with faked concern, trying to provoke Warren further. He truly seemed to enjoin himself with the small teasing.

    ¡°Robert mentioned gifts at the end of last nights introduction¡±. Warren answered trying to not let his annoyance be noticed in his voice. He answered as if the jeering tone had entirely slipped passed him.

    ¡°Hmm, gifts eh..¡± His father had turned serious upon mentioning the gifts.

    ¡°Should be about time to discuss gifts, as you are almost turning eight now. You know about your brother''s gifts right?¡±

    ¡°A little. Terrance has the Mark of Courage and Constance has enhanced muscles, right?¡± Even without truly paying attention to these things, he had picked up some information about their gifts during their sparring and their conversation.

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s correct. Terrance Mark of Courage is a berserker gift that is a bit special, but very hard to develop. On the front lines, those with the Mark of Courage are very highly valued. They can ignore the pain as they slaughter a path in the enemy lines. It¡¯s hard to control and keep a sane mind while using this gift. Constance has a simple muscle enhancing gift. His power grows threefold for a short period of time afterward he¡¯ll have to recover for some days to injuries in his muscles. For a common gift, his is rather strong as usual muscle enhancing gifts only multiply one and a half fold or less..¡± His father sipped his tea as he explained some of the knowledge he had on gifts.

    Warren had been listening attentively and had picked up some things he found interesting. Could gifts be developed? Also, aren¡¯t his brothers¡¯ monsters? As he was pondering about it silently for a second his hand unconsciously reached to his chin as his habit once again resurfaced.

    ¡°What is it that you mean by developing, dad? He decided not to wait with his question till Robert had joined him or was going to teach him. His father seemed knowledgeable on the subject and his interest had been ignited.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

    A gentle smile surfaced on his father¡¯s face.

    ¡°Eager aren¡¯t you?¡± He seemed to enjoy the father and son moment as he started to explain more about the gifts.

    ¡°Well, let me start with the important basics, you know about the three main divisions, right?¡± Warren nodded affirmatively as he unconsciously leaned closer to the table, intent to not miss a single word his father was going to say.

    ¡°The main and subdivisions only help to classify a gift according to a set of rules. However, some gifts can be considered a mix of multiple main divisions. The most important thing about a gift is the way it is used by the wielder of the gift. If Constance were to use his gift to do some lifting work at the docks then his gift would be Auxiliary rather than military.¡±

    ¡°A gift can be polished to improve its qualities. Let¡¯s say we have a nature''s gift that gives the user the power to manipulate fire. Perhaps when he begins he¡¯s only capable of slightly raising of cooling the temperature of the flame. Or altering its form slightly. After exploring the use of his gift and polishing his skills on how to use the gift it is possible for the user to manipulate fire on a much finer scale or much grander scale. He could become a dragon on the battlefield or control the fire¡¯s temperature to ensure the highest quality of forged steel.¡±

    ¡°Seems like you already begun to lecture the kid on gifts, Gerald?¡± Robert said teasingly as he entered the room. ¡°If you¡¯re going to teach him yourself, why even bother to invite me over?¡± he added with a wide grin on his face, clearly enjoying the result of his entrance on the conversation.

    Annoyed, his father¡¯s eyes rolled in response to the entrance of the good-humored Robert.

    Warren chuckled as he found the situation similar to when he¡¯d sleepily entered the room earlier when he got served some teasing by his father.

    ¡°So, how do you polish or upgrade a gift?¡± Warren was reluctant to have the conversation cut off and interjected in the banter between his dad and Robert.

    ¡°You really can¡¯t wait can you now?¡± His father chuckled at the site of his son being overtly interested in the topic to a point to for the first time since.. ever.. interrupting his father.

    Robert threw a side-glance to his dad as he started explaining.

    ¡°Gifts are very mysterious things that develop over the years in your body. Your body is nurtured by the mana of the world and by interacting with this mana your gift manifests.¡± Robert took some slices of bread from the basket in the middle of the table and put them on his plate as he started to make himself a sandwich.

    ¡°Gifts are said to develop from one¡¯s desires and experiences. In order to stimulate certain gifts, Noble families and military household start training their children from a young age. A child that has experienced combat and harsh training is more likely to develop a military gift. Your brothers are examples of these methods.¡±

    Warren nodded, it seemed to be a very natural explanation. He also remembered his brothers swinging a training blade in the backyard and doing many laps in order to train their fitness and combat prowess. He never linked it to developing a gift, he¡¯s simply seen them as warmongering idiots.

    However, the question arose why he hadn¡¯t been trained the same way. His glance at his father did not go unnoticed and his father got the hint.

    ¡°Well, your brothers always followed me around everywhere. They always said they wanted to be like me when they grow up so I felt it was natural to train them. Unlike Robert, I¡¯m not inclined to believe it forms from just experience and desires. I feel it¡¯s more likely to be part of you when you¡¯re born and nourished over time by the mana of this world over the course of time.¡±

    As Warren nodded Robert interjected ¡°With that said, these two different thoughts are advocated by many but proven by none. So, I can¡¯t say which one is more right or wrong. Just that experience teaches that training seems to help in developing martial gifts. However, they could be present at birth.¡± His face was calm as he gave his statement on the subject, not dismissing his fathers''

    opinion. Robert then casually continued to eat his now prepared sandwich.

    "Well, I guess that''s enough talk about gifts at breakfast. Robert is very knowledgeable on the subject of gifts so you should ask him about it during your lessons with him. After all, he should earn his pay as well." His father dismissed the subject and added the latter part to repay the earlier remark made by Robert when he had entered the room.

    They continued to chat and joke with one another until his father took his leave from the table as he had to go out to fulfill his duty as the local garrison commander.

    As both Warren and Robert had eaten their fill the servants cleared out the table.

    "Consider the earlier talk about gifts the introduction I promised you. The subject is very important as the proper utilization of gifts give a great advantage to one''s usefulness. Properly using the talents of people is vital to any organization. Like I explained to you yesterday, I like a practical approach, so I''ll give you assignments."

    Warren nodded, this was after all not his first time hearing Robert say this. He also found the practical experience very useful and was now eager to complete his first assignment as it was related to gifts.

    "Your first assignment is to learn about the use of at least four different gifts. You can go and adventure in town, ask around and I believe you''ll learn a lot. You have up to lunch to fulfill this assignment. In the afternoon I''ll test your basic knowledge on the various topics that are tested on the entrance exam of the Academy."

    A wry smile formed on Warrens'' face. He had not expected his assignment to be walking around in town asking around about people their gifts. He still accepted and assured Robert he would do his best to fulfill his first assignment.

    "Since you''re going to town, I have another assignment for you." A smug face was drawn on Robert''s face as he continued.

    "I talked with your father last night, the usual talk. He mentioned he is in need of decent quality swords to replace the worn out ones from your house''s guard. Since most of them have come with him when he retired from the front lines he wants to take good care of them. "

    Warren had been well acquainted with some of the guards. He was most familiar with the captain of the household guard, Theodore, or Theo as everyone called him. Theo had been the one to tell him all kinds of tales when he had been young, therefore making a good impression on Warren. He had been very interested in the heroes of this somewhat magical world and Theo would always happily tell another tale.

    Theo had also told him of the men that followed his father after his retirement to bring new blood in the household guard or take up a post in the local defense garrison.

    "Also, he told me Constance''s birthday is coming up. So he got the idea to get him a fine sword. I told him I would take care of it since he is going to get busy raiding some bandit outpost a couple of days travel out from here on imperial orders."

    "Since you''re already going for a walk through town you can learn about the market prices of various items. There are some items I need as well, I will write a list with the thing I want you to obtain. You''ll get 5 gold coins and 50 silvers to buy these things. Everything that is left will be your reward for the assignment. See it as learning about the market prices of items, as well as to learn how to economize on your decisions." Robert said with a righteous face.

    Warren immediately knew this was a devious plan devised to make him carry out work on behalf of Robert. He easily recognized the plot but could not retort as Robert had brought it up as an assignment for learning. Inwardly he cursed as he knew he would be making trips back and forth to various places to check the items of Robert''s ''shopping list''.

 Extra Content

    Dear everyone,

    Your support has made all my hard work worth it.

    The amount of happiness it gives me that I see progress every day is ... Undescribable.

    To thank you for your unrelenting support I''ve decided to release some extra content.

    First of is the MAP OF THE WORLD. Like yeah. I made that just for you guys!

    This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.Also an impression of how I think Warren should look like. Haven''t described him much, give your opinions!

    Also, I''ve designed a blueprint of the first floor of the mansion Warren is living in at the moment.

    Just to tickle your imagination.

    Hope you Enjoy seeing the extra content,

    You can find a link in the post chapter note.

    - Marco

    P.s.: I''ll release at least one chapter tomorrow.

 Chapter 6: A cheat at the first assignment

    Begrudgingly he accepted the note from his teacher, written on it with a swirly handwriting stood various items that he had to acquire on his trip through town. He felt used as he read the shopping list.

    "Also, Warren, when you return go to your father''s study. Your birthday is coming up next month so your father will inquire about your wishes. Everyone''s eight-year anniversary is important, don''t skip out on your responsibilities for it!"

    When one would turn eight, massive celebrations would be held. Family, friends, acquaintances, everyone would join in on the festivities. The reason why the eight birthday was such a great happening was, of course, the fact that around your birthday acquire your gift!

    "It''s my birthday, how is celebrating it my responsibility?" Warren answered annoyed, but jokingly. He knew that his requests for his birthday were very important to the festivities. However, with his assignment, he truly didn''t wish for his fathers thorough questioning regarding his wishes. He knew his father''s eye for details, it would take hours to get through all the topics.

    A smile formed on Robert''s face "Well, I have known your father for a while so I can see why you''re so reluctant. However, it is important not to slack on your responsibilities - else you will never succeed in your life." Robert lectured him with a friendly but stern voice.

    Warren had noticed this man''s mood would rapidly change when he went in what Warren had come to call "Teacher-mode". His usual cheering, joking and teasing image would be replaced with the impeccable image of a wise scholar.

    They casually said their goodbyes as Warren took his leave to prepare for the shopping trip. He had already known that he would be transporting swords for the family''s guards so he had been thinking about how to move this load.

    He had immediately gotten the idea of creating a pulling cart. However, he quickly reasoned he did not have the time to create one from scratch. Using horse and wagon would work, but would be bothersome to traverse the busy market streets.

    In the end, however, he did not have any great alternatives than relying on manpower. He quickly counted a number of things he needed to purchase and decided on the amount of required manpower. He would take two servants and two guards. The servants would be helpful when picking the miscellaneous items on the list and the guards would be able to do the heavy lifting as well as advise on the topic of swords.

    Ask he decided on his plan he asked around for the whereabouts of Theo and Herbert. They would know whom he should take with him.

    He meticulously tackled his assignment as he felt the need to show his intelligence.

    His two lives combined he was roughly forty-two and thus he wished to level himself with the adults around him. Proving his wits would help this process. His father had already begun treating him as an equal after some time as he noticed the intelligence in his son.

    He was thankful for his dad''s way of interacting with him and had now made it his goal to get acknowledged by his teacher as well. Analysing his own reasoning he felt a bit childish but he jokingly thought to himself "It''s okay to be a bit childish, after all, I''m only just turning eight in a month." He smiled at the thought and headed towards the conference hall as a maidservant told him his father and both Theo and Herbert were there.

    As he approached the room he could hear the muffled voiced of his father and Herbert coming through the thick oaken door.

    He simply barged in the room without even as much as a knock, causing three very surprised faces to stare at him upon his entrance.

    "Is there something on my face?" Warren chuckled as he felt a bit awkward upon seeing the questioning faces of the other three in the room.

    His father then gently smiled and asked "Did we not bring you up with proper manners? Have you forgotten to knock or am I growing old?" His tone was strict but his face gave away that he didn''t take any offense to the unannounced visit of his youngest son.

    "I did forget to knock, but you are definitely growing old dad, I think I heard mom say that your hair is growing grey." He jokingly said as he knew he was in no real trouble.

    "My hair is still blond young man, don''t forget to respect your elders." His father chuckled as his hand went through his hairs.

    "Then tell me, why did you come looking for me?"

    "I didn''t come for you particularly dad, I was actually looking for Herbert and Theo as I was wanting to ask their advice." As Warren said so he saw his father''s smile dampen and his eyes lose their usual twinkle.

    "You look for Herbert and Theo for advice now son?" He said his voice slightly pained and sorrowful as if grieving for a loss.

    As the situation dawned upon Warren he immediately explained "Just casual advice on my assignment, I need some manpower to help me transport some stuff from the market back home. I was wondering whom I should take with me. I want to take two servants and two guards with me." His explanation made his fathers crestfallen face light up once more as he heard him release a sigh.

    "That makes sense, good thinking son." He replied in a somewhat embarrassed tone as he was feeling he had overreacted a lot earlier.

    "What do you need my guards for though, Warren? You''re not going to do something risky for your assignments, are you? Else I''ll talk to Robert about that..." His face contorted, making him look somewhat savage.

    Suddenly he felt a chill go through his body, as he swore that he would never make Theo an enemy. His face was simply radiating a form of almost tangible bloodthirst. He didn''t know whether Robert and Theo had any history to warrant this oozing aura, but he was determined to not make either their blacklist.

    "Nothing risky!" He quickly replied. "I just need to buy some things in town. The guards will carry the heavier things." He didn''t want to add that hey would help out with picking swords as he felt that would be snitching on Robert. He was tempted to take revenge for giving him the extra workload but decided that a good relationship would be far more beneficial than his petty revenge.

    "Hmm... Well, you can take Jamy and Oliver with you. They are currently guarding the entrance of the armory. I bet you''ll make them happy with a temporary leave. The gates are manned anyway, so there''s no real risk in taking them."

    Warren nodded happily as he agreed to the arrangements and then glanced at Herbert who had thus far been silently standing aside.

    "You can take Mary and James. Mary should be around the kitchen and James is polishing the armors in the Armory." He answered in a casual matter of facts way that was so typical for his trustworthy yet relaxed mannerism.

    Warren once more nodded and was wanting to take his leave as he thought of his unexpected entrance - why were the three most influential people in the household in the conference room anyways?

    "What were you discussing just now anyway?"

    "Buying horses."

    "Bandit raid."

    The two contradicting answered came from his father and Theo who were now awkwardly looking at each other. It seemed they were not telling the truth and all and the two had intuitively immediately tried to cover up whatever it was what they were talking about before.

    His father coughed, embarrassed by their lie being discovered, then shooting a glance at his impulsive captain.

    "Nothing you have to worry about anyway. You should go and fulfill your assignments, I heard Robert mention he always gives a time limit for these things." His father then stood up from behind his desk and then continued to guide him out of the room.

    As he went to find his assigned personnel he couldn''t help but worry as the feeling crept up on him that there was something important being discussed behind that oaken door.

    He wished he had waited before barging in, listening in on the conversation would have given him something to go on. Without any clues, he felt powerless to the subject. It was apparent that he would not be included in the talks.

    He suddenly once more felt treated as a kid, thoroughly annoying him. Then he decided to tell himself that these talks were in preparatory of his upcoming birthday, trying to rid himself of the uncomfortable feeling that was settling in his stomach.

    He easily found both guards and servants and then set off with them towards the market district. He once more went through his list, his earlier worries replaced by a helpless feeling that he would have to work hard in order to be in time with his first assignments. He had roughly 3 hours to prepare the items on the list.

    The list noted the ten swords he needed for his father as well as various tools, herbs, medicine, writing materials, and the like.

    However his interested had been roused when reading "Mana crystal - lower quality. Liquid mana stimulant. Mana Calming Elixir."

    These things had been like a bus coming from left, completely stunning him and running him over. He could know, he was hit by a truck once. (and died)

    His motivation for this trip had increased once more and he eagerly looked forward to having these things explained. His curiosity towards the ''magical'' aspect of his new life had made him increase his pace, leaving both guards and servants behind. Noticing this they increased their pace to match that of their young master, trying to catch up once more.

    He wanted to keep the discovery of the mana crystals and magical items last. Thus, he decided to visit the blacksmith first, followed by the carpentry, the general store and lastly the apothecary.

    After a good fifteen minutes walk, he entered the smithy that he had known done business with his father before. He believed he would get fair treatment on behalf of his father¡¯s business relationship with the owner.

    In order to not crowd the blacksmith''s shop, he entered with both guards and left the servants at the door. As he entered he noticed the weapons hanging from the walls, even though he did not like bloodshed he did admire the craftsmanship of these weapons.

    He walked up to the counter of the shop and found a young clerk attentively looking at him, eager to sell. Warren also knew why, he was wearing a formal noble attire, clearly telling the clerk that he should have money on him.

    "Good afternoon, can I help you with something?" The clerk had greeted him cheeringly, possibly already counting money in his head.

    "Yes, I am looking to purchase several swords and I hoped that you could help me with this order," Warren answered, making his request clear.

    "Certainly, what kind are you looking for and in which quality?" The clerk asked politely, inquiring about the details.

    Warren took a glance at the guard next to him and observed the sword at his waist for a bit.

    "I''m looking for single-handed swords. Ten of them would suffice for now. As for the quality, I''d like you to tell me more about the various swords you have on sale." Warren then replied, trying to gain a good position for bargaining later on.

    "Yes, on the left wall you''ll see a variety of swords displayed. All these swords are crafted by my father, the shop owner. He''s a third-grade smith so these swords are of high quality, varying in price from ten silvers to fifty silvers based on their design and whether they are imbued with a mana crystal, the quality of the mana crystal and element of the crystal..."

    Warren nodded and his eyes browsed the assortment of weapons on the wall. His eyes specifically fell on a sword with a large blue crystal embedded in the pommel.

    ¡°On the right wall, you¡¯ll find medium quality swords, commonly used by mercenaries, guards or even the army. They are sometimes made by my father, others are made by his apprentices. Prices range from a single silver up to ten silvers. Some of those on the wall are works by my hands.¡±

    ¡°Lastly you¡¯ll find the racks and bins in the center of the shop. The racks hold various tools and the bins hold the works of apprentices that haven¡¯t become graded smiths yet. The swords in these bins range from thirty to eighty copper a piece.¡±

    After pondering for a while, he decided he would take medium swords for the household guards and a high-quality sword as a gift for his brother. He had been given 5 gold coins and 50 silver coins, a rather extravagant amount of money.

    The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.¡°Thank you for your introduction, I¡¯ll take a look at your medium swords for now.¡± Warren turned from the counter and moved towards the wall, flanked by the guards he had taken with him, whom were now eagerly looking at the wall as if longing for better equipment.

    Ten swords of ten silvers would cost him a single gold coin. At first he was tempted to buy ten high-quality weapons, however, a quick calculation told him that if he bought swords averaging on 30 silvers he¡¯d spent 3 gold coins. A huge amount of money!

    As he was browsing the wall looking for swords that caught his eye, he also started asking questions to his guards.

    ¡°What kind of sword do you guys prefer?¡± He glanced at the guards, quickly returning his gaze to the wall filled with various sorts of swords.

    Jamy and Oliver exchanged glances, not knowing who would answer first. In the end, it was Oliver who replied. ¡°Young master, I prefer one-handed swords, like the one I currently have with me. Sadly, the one I have does not compare to the ones on this wall. It has aged and hasn¡¯t had any proper maintenance.¡±

    Jamy also chimed in ¡°Most of the family guards are equipped with one-handed swords, it¡¯s the most common sword and the one that most people are familiar with. It¡¯s also part of the standard equipment in the army, young master.¡±

    ¡°Anything, in particular, I have to take notice of?¡± Warren asked, he needed details of the product to discern what the quality was ¨C and more importantly; if it fit his family¡¯s guards.

    Oliver and Jamy both started to talk, Oliver shot Jamy a glance and then once more took the word.

    ¡°Yes, you should look at the spine of the sword, if there are any cracks along it, the sword will be much less reliable. Along the edges, you must look for the sharpness of the blade as well if there are any chips in the blade. Lastly, it is important to check the handle for its grip and material. Some swords look very fancy but are very Impractical in combat. Also, young master, you should ask the clerk what metal they used while forging the blade.¡± Oliver said with great confidence.

    ¡°Why is the metal important? Shouldn¡¯t it always be of proper quality?¡± Warren asked, a frown on his face. He thought all these weapons looked incredibly sturdy, so he couldn¡¯t imagine what the difference in metals would do to the quality.

    ¡°Young master, there are differences in the durability in the sword as well as the difference in the strength. You must understand that in combat metal meets metal. If the quality of steel is bad it will chip and rust quicker. My father was a blacksmith, he told me of the different steels. Damascus steel, also known as Wootz steel is used for high-quality swords. Whereas Spring steel or W-One steel is fine for medium swords, but each giving different properties to the swords. Of course, swords of adamantium or higher mana guiding materials would be even better.¡± Oliver answered honesty to his memories. Warren could literally see him thinking.

    Warren then beckoned the clerk and asked about the differences of the swords that had caught his eyes. In the end, he decided based on the clerks advise, to buy 10 Damascus steel swords. He also found the swords very pleasing on the eyes due to the patterns on the steel.

    He then proceeded the high-quality swords on the other wall to pick a birthday gift for his brother. His brother¡¯s birthday was only 2 weeks earlier than his, making him a full 4 years older than himself.

    He also asked the clerk about the mana crystals embedded in the pommel.

    ¡°The mana crystal adds different properties to the blade. The higher the grade of mana the stronger the effect. For example, a grade one fire crystal will make the blade very hot when activated. Whereas a grade two would make flames erupt from the sword. Ultimately a grade three crystal would make it possible for the wielder to shoot searing flames from his swords.¡± The clerk said passionately as if his very wish was to forge such a sword.

    ¡°What grade crystals do these high-quality swords on the wall have?¡± Warren asked curiously.

    ¡°Well, just the grade one, sir. For higher grade crystals you¡¯ll have to go to the city. It¡¯s actually already quite something to have grade one crystals in this village. My father is only able to acquire these crystals on behalf of old connections he has. We¡¯re the only smithy in fifteen days travel to have mana embedded swords.¡± He said proudly.

    Warren was somewhat disappointed, he would¡¯ve loved seeing a flame shooting sword.

    As he was intently looking at the various swords hanging from the wall, he was starting to feel hot. As if a flame was lighted in himself. He felt weak and his mind was overcome was starting numb.

    His gaze however never moved from the wall. His guards had taken their leave to take a look at the other swords further down the wall and the clerk had walked to the new customers that just entered the shop, knowing that Warren¡¯s purchase had been set in stone.

    As no one noticed the peculiar gaze of Warren or his lack of awareness of his surroundings, the clearest bright emerald blue lights shone from Warren¡¯s eyes. As these lights took root in his eyes and softly dimmed a cold rush went through his body thoroughly extinguishing the heat he felt a moment earlier.

    As his minds slowly cleared up and his awareness once more resurfaced he felt remarkably good. As if all his impurities had been cleaned as if his body had always missed something and had just now become whole.

    As he marveled in this wonderful feeling he started noticing his vision was different than before, the swords in front of having slightest hue of blue added in their steel. As he wondered about this difference he picked up a sword to examine it further.

    As he looked at the sword a blue, see-through popup filled his vision, apparently telling the details of the sword in front of him.

    ¡°A fine sword forged by a grade three smith.

    Its sword is made of Damascus steel. This steel is famed for its durability and its sharp, resilient edge. It''s visually striking due to the patterns reminiscent of flowing water.

    Damascus is made from special Wootz ingots; hence Damascus swords are also called Wootz Swords.

    The sword has a wooden hilt with a steel core. The wooden hilt is wrapped in good quality leather.

    On the pommel, a low-quality earth crystal had been embedded, making it possible to slightly alter the weight of the sword as it interferes with the laws of gravity.

    This sword is of decent quality.¡±

    Bewildered he read the explanation in the blue popup once more. He didn¡¯t know how or why this information popped up but he vaguely perceived this would very possibly his first gift!

    As he was thinking of his first gift, the popup disappeared and was replaced with new information.

    ¡°Appraisal.

    The gift of appraisal lets its user obtain information about a person or object. The more complex an object for appraisal is the less information will be available. Upgrading the appraisal gift is possible.¡±

    As he read the statement he was filled with disbelief and shock, as well as excitement and happiness as this would truly be a cheat skill for sure! He had learned in his former life how extremely important information is. Crucial for making decisions.

    Having information at the ready like this was truly a godsend gift. As his happiness and shock settled in he once more read the statement. His thoughts spinning wild, he decided to spend some time exploring his gift.

    As he walked through the store he kept picking up various objects and learned from their descriptions. He also quickly learned a given set of rules that applied with his gift.

    He had first been touching all the items he appraised, but then tried to do it without touching it and found the gift working just the same. He felt stupid for picking up all the swords just now.

    As he appraised more swords he felt more comfortable with the skill. He also started to feel like every time he lost a bit of energy. After his awakening to the gift, he felt like he was superman on steroids drinking red bull and coffee. After every use felt a little less Superman and a little more mortal.

    He attributed this due to the loss of mana for every use of the gift. This had already been explained to him as was a very basic rule in how gifts work. He then experimented to see how much mana he would lose depending on the objects he appraised.

    He found that as he read more and more about the swords, more information was available at swords he had appraised earlier. He, therefore, inferred that a certain amount of proficiency would improve the amount of knowledge to be gained from his gift. Also, he could find the information on an appraised item by imagining the item in his head. He found this a very useful option.

    After playing with the swords he had started to build up the courage to appraise a person. In the end, his victim had become Jamy. He didn¡¯t know if a person would notice the use of his gift and felt somewhat uncomfortable appraising a person for the first time but in the end convinced himself this was necessary.

    He then looked towards Jamy and in his mind, he screamed: ¡°FOR SCIENCE¡±. However, no popup showed up in his vision. Puzzled he started wondering what the problem could be. He glanced at his sides and appraised a sword, a popup immediately floated in his vision.

    ¡°Would a person be too complex for me to appraise? Or is there some rule I¡¯m not aware of that prohibits me from using the gift?¡± He mused softly, as someone who enjoyed puzzles and intricate questions he was fired up and determined to find his answer.

    After some trial and error, he found that he could not appraise an object or person that is not within 5 meters distance of himself. He then closed in on Jamy, starting a casual conversation. He then used the appraisal on Jamy.

    Name: Jamy Iverson

    Age: 29

    Occupation: Household Guard

    Gift: Unknown

    After using his gift on Oliver and the clerk he once more confirmed the rules to his gift in his mind.

    1. One must be able to see the object or person the user wants to appraise.

    2. One must be within 5 meters of the object or person the user wants to appraise.

    3. Proficiency with items can increase the amount of available knowledge.

    4. Knowledge on appraised items is saved and can be reviewed at a later date.

    5. Persons are apparently very complex as the appraisal only states the name, gender, and age of the person who¡¯s appraised.

    6. The knowledge you have on people you appraise is added to the description.

    7. For every appraisal, an amount of mana is used appropriately to the size and complexness of the object that is appraised.

    He then proceeded to the counter, wanting to pay for the swords he picked out.

    As he had wandered through the shop picking up pretty much every sword he was very confident in his selection. He also had included two swords for himself. The blue emerald embedded sword that had caught his glance at the first moment he looked at the wall and a sword he picked from the apprentice bin.

    The blue embedded sword had surprisingly a grade two water crystal embedded in it, even though the clerk had told him they only had grade one swords. This discovery made warren greatly excited as the thought of cheaply acquiring such a sword had made his blood boil.

    The sword he had taken from the apprentice bin was a very sharp, well-polished steel katana. It was beyond him why such a sword had been in the apprentice bin as even his appraisal had told him it was a fine sword not inferior in quality to the better medium grade swords on the wall.

    ¡°Since you¡¯re buying in bulk and this is your first purchase at this shop, I¡¯ll give you a good deal.¡± The clerk happily said when he saw Warren make his way to the counter, himself and both guards carrying several swords for purchase.

    The business-like smile and the easy discount he got made Warren aware that he could bargain at this place. Something he had also liked in his previous life. Knowing this, his gaze became serious as he prepared for some serious negotiations! His friends in his former life would easily recognize his current face as his ¡°money¡± face. Whenever he felt like he was going to make a lot of money this face surfaced.

    ¡°Yes, thank you for your consideration. Would you please tell me the price of these swords then?¡± Warren too put up a business-like smile as he inquired about the details.

    The swords were neatly laid out on the counter, and the clerk''s eyes had grown a lot more serious after examining the swords in front of him. He became aware the client in front of him had only picked up the best swords in their category! This was outrageous for a 7-some-what-years looking old kid!

    He then rattled the prices of the medium quality swords one after another. Each priced between eight and ten silvers. In the end, the ten medium quality swords were priced at 86 silvers.

    He then told Warren that he had a great eye for quality swords.

    This flattery led to Jamy tapping Warren¡¯s shoulder and telling him to not be led by the nose by the sugar-sweet-talking clerk. However, Warren chuckled as he knew best that it was an honest compliment, his appraisal couldn¡¯t be wrong.

    His brother¡¯s sword price was 35 silvers, whereas his own blue crystal embedded sword only cost 20 silvers as the clerk told that water crystals were less popular as their effects would not strengthen the fighting ability of the user that much.

    ¡°A grade one crystal would not an add that much perhaps, but if I¡¯m right this grade two crystal will add a lot to the potential of the sword!¡± Warren sneered in his mind, he was extremely happy to purchase the sword for such a low price, he felt like loudly laughing but somehow kept his composure.

    The katana he had picked up would cost 40 coppers, as the clerk told him the shape was unusual and the blade only an experiment of one of the apprentices.

    ¡°Well, so in total, that¡¯s 55 silvers for two high-quality swords, 86 silvers for the ten medium quality swords and 40 coppers for the katana. Totalling 141 silvers and 40 coppers.¡±

    Warren nodded, in his heart, he knew he already had a sweet deal thanks to his purchase of the high-quality sword and katana he had chosen, but he still wanted to negotiate the price.

    ¡°As I said, I will give you a discount as it¡¯s your first purchase at the shop. Ten percent and I¡¯ll throw in the katana for free.¡± The clerk said. The clerk to had put up a friendly poker face and was now waiting to close the deal.

    ¡°It is my first time dealing with this shop, but I¡¯m very pleased with the service and quality of the swords.¡± Warren said as if was a regular at buying things, straight-faced without even blinking.

    ¡°I¡¯ve come on behalf of my father, Gerald Emberheart, he has had some dealings with you too on behalf of the local defense garrison. Also, I¡¯d like the tools on this list to be purchased as well.¡± He then handed the list to the clerk.

    The happy clerk then immediately in the story bringing back various tools and items that had been on the list. ¡°That would be an additional 25 silvers and 60 coppers.¡± He then said after he had done the math on his notebook on the counter. ¡°That would make for a total of 167 silvers.¡±

    Warren smiled ¡°I presume we could come to a favorable arrangement since it¡¯s likely we will be doing more business in the future.¡± His eyes practically reflected the gold coin he had taken from his pouch.

    The clerk quickly picked up on the gold coin, his eyes grew wide and he then quickly assured him that they would come to a beneficial agreement. The clerk then offered him a 20% discount on the total sum as well. He then added, ¡°You¡¯ll also get a 30% discount if you buy new scabbards with the swords.¡±

    At this point, both guards had tapped Warren¡¯s shoulder to encourage him to take the deal. Warren to had been very pleased with the deal and in the end left after paying 2 gold coins in total as he also requested to have sets of good quality leather sword belts included in the deal. When the deal was done the clerk thanked him for his business and handed him a coin with the letters U.B.A. pressed in it.

    The clerk told him it was a coin of recognition commissioned by the United Blacksmith Association. It would get him a ten percent discount at all connected smithies.

    This simple gesture had been well received by Warren as he assured the clerk he would return to his shop if he had any additional business.

    As he walked out of the shop he walked out the street and then started to loudly laugh, tears even falling from his eyes. Such a good bargain he thought. He had made a huge profit and even made a valuable relationship with the blacksmith shop. It then hit him he forgot to ask about gifts at the shop.

    He was reluctant to return to ask such questions so he decided he would have to do his best in the next few shops. He then started walking towards the carpentry with a big smile plastered on his face, flanked by a bewildered duo of guards, who were now carrying the purchased items on their back in huge linen bags on their back. The two servants, Mary and James followed from behind with an even more bewildered face.

    As he walked towards the carpentry he once more started to experiment with his gift.

    He then wondered whether he could appraise himself, the results startled him.

    With a shocked face, he stared at the info in the appraisal box.

    Warren Amberheart

    Age: 7 years

    Occupation: Honourable Student

    Gift: 2 gifts; Appraisal; Elemental affinity

 Chapter 7 : Learning more pt.1

    Warren kept checking the blue box floating in his vision. His mind completely went blank after reading that there was another gift written below Appraisal. He hadn''t heard of someone awakening to two gifts, he was both incredibly happily - cloud nine feelings - and anxious. He knew all too well this might not be as great as it seemed to be. Even in his own world being too talented would sometimes be detrimental.

    <table style="background-color: #5580e6; border-color: #11e3f2">

    <tbody>

    <tr>

    <td>Warren Amberheart</td>

    <td></td>

    </tr>

    <tr>

    <td>Age</td>

    <td style="text-align: left">7 Years</td>

    </tr>

    <tr>

    <td>Occupation</td>

    <td style="text-align: left">Honourable Student (i)</td>

    </tr>

    <tr>

    <td>Gift(s)</td>

    <td style="text-align: left">

    Appraisal (i)

    Elemental Affinity (i)

    </td>

    </tr>

    </tbody>

    </table>

    Only after feeling a peculiar gaze from Jamy and Oliver his mind snapped back to reality. Both Mary and James had too caught up once more. Jamy and Oliver looked strangely at Warren but after noticing Mary and James catching up and Warren once more moving forward they simply thought he had been thoughtful of the servants.

    "Oliver, Jamy, you can take the equipment we bought and bring them over to the mansion. Notify Robert about the purchase, he''ll take care of it. Also, tell him I''d like to speak with him upon my return." Warren instructed the duo of guards, as the heavy tools had been purchased, he didn''t need them any further. Not to mention, he had brought them along for their advice on weaponry, with his appraisal he had really only used them for carrying.

    Jamy and Oliver quickly nodded and bade Warren and both servants farewell. Their faces cheerily as they looked at the purchased goods. Even if Jamy was somewhat airheaded, at least Oliver would have figured out for whom those weapons were purchased. With their bright faces, it was almost as if the weight they carried was negligible.

    He then quickly made his way to the carpentry, he wanted to return with haste as he had many questions to solve with the recent discovery of his gifts.

    He walked into the carpentry slammed the list of things he needed to purchase on the counter and immediately started to bargain. He couldn''t even be bothered anymore to ask about others gifts. He was way too concerned with both of his gifts to pretend to give a damn. He also thought Robert wouldn''t be bothered as he had very good reasons to make haste.

    After getting a 25% discount on the best quality tools he could find using his appraisal he left the shop, the clerk still dazed that he just made the easiest and quickest sale ever.

    He then proceeded to visit the general store in the same fashion. Stating his wish to purchase various things he was professionally helped. This even threw of Warren, as he hadn''t expected this kind of service after both his visits to the smithy and the carpentry he had thought service in a backwater place as Easton wasn''t up to any standards.

    Surprised by the keen shop attendant he didn''t even get a good bargain. He only got a small 10% discount on his purchase. This time he left the shop feeling like he just lost an important battle. It thoroughly annoyed him that he had been led around the nose by a shop attendant.

    What he didn''t know was that that exact shop attendant was the owner of the general store, a man who owned shops all over the country. That owner had been extremely surprised at the witty and sharp Warren. To a point, he had even broken a sweat at some points during negotiation. He had been famous to be a great bargainer, he felt ashamed as he just had just completely gone serious on a 7-year-old kid.

    After that the owner started fostering ideas on getting his hands on this kid; he truly was gifted! He had seen the talent the young kid had, and he immediately started to look into his background.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    Warren, unaware of the chaos he had stirred in the mind of the owner of the esteemed general stores, had gloomily walked towards the apothecary. He sulked all the way over, even the servants with him didn''t dare say anything to the otherwise cheery Warren. Warren only recovered when he was getting near the apothecary''s front door.

    Their elegantly designed shop stood in steep contrast with their surroundings. The blue building was richly decorated and had a sign handing over the door that resembled the apothecaries sign of Warren''s previous life. Noticing this he was stumped somewhat. For some reason, the sign of those studying medicine didn''t change even after reincarnation.

    After seeing the elegantly displayed wares his mood had grown more serious, once more wearing his money face. Thoughts on a quick return to the mansion fleeted from his mind as he felt this was going to be a harsh challenge. Bargaining had become a game for him and he took it very seriously.

    He once more read the list of things he had to procure, the most interesting items left on the list.

    "Mana crystal - lower quality. Liquid mana stimulant. Mana Calming Elixir."

    The herbs stated on the list didn''t even caught his attention as his eye were caught by these words. His curiosity burned in his mind, his blood boiling. He decided to first search the store to see if he could find the prescribed items.

    He quickly found all the herbs on the list and picked the freshest, most energetic looking herbs as he used his appraisal to learn about their properties.

    He, however, couldn''t find the crystals, mana stimulant or calming elixir. Worried he made his way over to the counter, pushing his basket filled with herbs on the counter, examining his rival - cough, the clerk. He sized the elderly looking man up and decided he looked knowledgeable. He then used his appraisal in the hope to learn anything else.

    <table style="background-color: #5580e6; border-color: #11e3f2">

    <tbody>

    <tr>

    <td>Albert Shepherd</td>

    <td></td>

    </tr>

    <tr>

    <td>Age</td>

    <td style="text-align: left">57</td>

    </tr>

    <tr>

    <td>Occupation</td>

    <td style="text-align: left">Master Apotheker (i)</td>

    </tr>

    <tr>

    <td>Gift(s)</td>

    <td style="text-align: left">Unknown</td>

    </tr>

    </tbody>

    </table>

    There was little to be learned from the appraisal. However a Master Apotheker... That sounded rather impressive.

    As Warren focused on the words Master Apotheker a line of text popped up in a new box.

    "Apothecary is a very well respected profession. In order to become an Apotheker vast knowledge and many years of practice is necessary. Their concocted medicine and stimulants are considered their life''s fortune. Apothekers are riddled in mystery as they never share the secrets of their profession.

    Master Apotheker is the title that is given to those who can concoct level 5 elixir. This can be considered the apex of the profession."

    As Warren read the last line his eyes grew a little wider as he felt respect well up in him for the elderly man in front of him. His adversary in the bargain was very tough. Stirring Warren his competitive nature.

    The Master Apotheker had begun verifying the herbs and their quality as he nonchalantly glanced at them and put them back in the basket whilst noting his findings down on a notepad. He seemed completely disinterested in the work that he was doing as if he really wanted to be somewhere else.

    When he finished he then glanced at Warren, only a flicker of surprise was seen in his eyes, but he quickly once more became the disinterested master Apotheker that he had been all along the assessment of the herbs.

    "Would that be all, young man?" The old man inquired in a very flat voice, not friendly nor impolite, just very disinterested.

    "No respected elder, I''d also like to have a lower quality mana crystal, liquid mana stimulant and a mana calming elixir." Warren had become somewhat docile after reading the information on the Master Apothekers profession. He had decided to show his respect by addressing him as a respected elder. He really would like to forge a good relationship with the aloof elderly man.

    The old man''s brows lifted, then he turned around whilst murmuring "Interesting fellow indeed."

    Warren, not hearing what the old man said, then looked bewildered at the man leaving the counter and making his way to the back door of the shop. After some time the man came back holding on various flasks.

    "Right, these are the things you requested, all together that makes 2 gold and 65 silvers, no bargaining." The old man simply told him, without holding back anything.

    Warren, put on the spot, simply agreed and paid the man. He then found he only had a few silvers left after everything he had spent so far. His profit was negligible for his efforts and he felt cheated by Robert. After carefully taking the flasks and safely putting them in his luxury bag hanging around his waist. He felt he needed to take these precious items himself. Not that he distrusted his servants, but he felt better after putting them away himself.

 Chapter 7 part 2 : Learning more

    He left the apothecary feeling defeated. Not even having the chance of bargaining he felt annoyed, like a child having his parents tell him he couldn¡¯t play his favorite game.

    However, he felt reassured that he now completed his assignments and procured the various items.

    He already didn¡¯t think about asking others about their gifts anymore, as he knew he would have more than enough to compensate Robert with.

    As he thought of the items he had just put away a smile crept on his face. Magical items! He was excited to learn about them and took one of the items from his pouch so he could appraise it. He then studied the information on each of the items.

    <u>Lower quality mana water crystal</u>

    Smal crystal holding a minimum amount of nature¡¯s force. Nature¡¯s force is better known as mana. Mana is used various ways; mostly to activate or trigger a response from weapons, tools, and items. It is a form of energy that comes from nature itself. A mana crystal is formed at a place with a high density of mana. The dominating force of nature will become apparent in the mana crystal¡¯s usage. Water energy is a very useful force, it can be gentle and flowing, yet strong enough to erode or shatter stones.

    <u>Liquid mana stimulant </u>

    Liquid mana stimulant is natures force purified to a point it becomes liquid. It is very potent and is considered dangerous as it can combust or explode when it is not handled carefully. Because of its high purity, it is often used by rich nobles to strengthen their corporeal body, or better known as a vessel. The strength of the vessel determines the amount of mana a body can attract and hold.

    It is also sometimes used in extremely high priced weapons and magical artifacts. However working with the substance is extremely difficult due to its combustible nature.

    <u>Mana calming elixir</u>

    Mana calming elixir is used to relax disorderly mana. In various items, medicine and artifacts mana calming elixir is used when fusing different mana forces together to help them calm down and settle without causing conflict.

    When using Liquid mana stimulant in combination with Mana calming elixir the pain of strengthening the vessel is lessened, as the mana becomes more docile.

    Mana calming elixir is made from 36 herbs and the recipe has always been kept secret.

    Warren studied the given information thoroughly, absorbed by it and thinking about the various means of using the items he made his way back to the mansion followed in tow by his two remaining servants, Mary and James.

    His steps were quick as a fire once more was lit in his mind thinking about asking Robert about his gifts. As his mind was preparing the upcoming conversation he stumbled upon something very interesting!

    His appraisal on the Master Apotheker had given him more information after intently staring at the tile of his profession. As he once more thought back to the appraisal he had used on the elderly man the blue box containing the information of the Apotheker once more popped up.

    He had once more was happy with the automatic memorizing ability that came with his appraisals. It was like he had an external USB plugged into his mind that stored all the information he got from appraising. Rule four of his experiments.

    <ol start="4">

    <li>Knowledge on appraised items is saved and can be reviewed at a later date.</li>

    </ol>

    He then reasoned, if thinking about appraisal gave him information on his gift, and thinking about a profession would explain that profession, it would mean that whenever an (i) was stated in the appraisal box, he could learn more about it.

    As if struck by lightning, his mind suddenly cleared as a single thought popped up.

    ¡°I can appraise my second gift! I forgot! I¡¯m such an idiot, APPRAISE, appraise Elemental affinity!¡± He was glad nobody could learn of his thoughts, as he felt ashamed he hadn''t thought of such an obvious thing to do.

    <u>Elemental Affinity</u>

    The power to communicate with natures force. Allows the user to feel the flow and density of the mana around himself. Currently, it is possible to do slight alterations to the flow and density of mana when communicating with the forces. Upgrading this gift is possible

    As he read the information on his second gift he felt like he was stupid, he didn¡¯t really get any of it. Communicating with natures forces? Flow and density of mana?

    However, he still felt happy ¨C how can two gifts not be better than one?

    Not to mention Appraisal was massively helpful.

    In a happy and cheery mood, he once more resumed his walk in a hasty manner towards the mansion, quickly returning had once more become a priority.

    His thoughts were dominated by questions and at this point, he couldn¡¯t come to another plan than to just ask Robert.

    As he walked up to the mansion he instructed the servants to bring all of the purchased goods to Robert his office, except the magical items, those he kept with him.

    After that, he decided to look for Robert, as he wanted to discuss the recent events and find answers to his questions.

    In the end, one of the servants told him lunch was going to be served soon, and that Robert was sure to show up there. Warren rationally decided to make an appointment with Robert during lunch. He had up until lunch for his assignments so he was sure Robert would have taken this into account.

    He found both his father and Robert at the table, eating some bread eggs and meat. Luxury food that nobles take for granted and the poor can¡¯t afford on a regular basis. Warren, however, came from the 21<sup>st</sup> century, this was the bare minimum for him and he really didn¡¯t think anything about it. However, he did feel everything was tastier in this life than his former life.

    As he sat down at the table he grabbed some food off the plates in the middle of the table, seemingly unconcerned with the recent events. He knew the time to tell everything and more importantly ask everything would come. When having lunch it wasn¡¯t proper to disturb others.

    So he ate and waited for both his father and Robert to finish up as well. It was incredible how much his father ate, Warren thought.

    ¡°He could¡¯ve been one of those American hotdog contest winners.¡± Warren chuckled at the image of his father eating dozens of hotdogs.

    Robert then shot Warren a questioning look.

    ¡°Have you finished your first assignment?¡± He then asked curiously.

    ¡°I have acquired everything you asked me to obtain, I¡¯ve asked the servants to put them in your office. Might be a bit crowded there by now though.¡± Warren smiled as he thought of the small office being stuffed with various tools and herbs.

    ¡°I see, let¡¯s check those out then. It is easier to continue this discussion in my office anyways. Though if it really is to crowded you¡¯ll have to help clear some space for me.¡± Robert answered nonchalantly, not too concerned with his office being used as a storage room.

    The two then bade farewell to his father and started to walk down the corridor towards the East wing.

    ¡°You¡¯ve mentioned the first assignment, somehow not opting to tell me about the other one. Are you going to tell me you couldn¡¯t finish it?¡± Robert raised his brows as he asked inquisitively.

    Warren acknowledged with a nod, he had hidden that subject as he knew it was going to turn in quite a discussion. However he was impressed with the quick deduction of Robert, the man was very quick on the uptake. Definitely not one easily fooled.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.

    ¡°Yes, some things occurred whilst shopping that distracted me from asking around for peoples gifts,¡± Warren answered, keeping his answer intentionally vague as he felt it was better to sit down in Roberts office to discuss the matter as he held it in great importance.

    ¡°Seems this¡­ occurrence¡­ was rather important? I don¡¯t feel that you would take an assignment lightly. You have made me interested, we should continue in my office of you¡¯re deliberately keeping things vague.¡± Robert once more struck with his words. He easily uncovered the crux of the matter and responded accordingly, once more impressing Warren. ¡°Truly not a simple man.¡±Warren thought.

    The two of them then made their way to Roberts office, as they opened the heavy oaken door they were greeted by a room stuffed with all kinds of tools and various baskets with herbs. Robert could still barely make his way through the room and took a seat behind his desk.

    ¡°Well, somewhat crowded, isn¡¯t it? But it should do. I¡¯m bad with curiosities, I¡¯m very interested in this, occurrence, that you mentioned. Take a seat, and tell me exactly what happened.¡± Robert said as he moved a basket with herbs to the side of his desk so he could see Warren as he too took a seat.

    ¡°I was at the smithy¡¯s shop. I inquired various thing from the clerk and both Jamy and Oliver. About the metals, the crystals, anything I found interesting.¡± Warren started to briefly describe what happened before his gift activated. Robert nodded, attentively listening, his face in anticipation.

    ¡°Then, as I was focusing on the wall with weapons, I felt my body grow hot. As if a fever rose out of nowhere, completely spreading through my body. My mind dazed off and I don¡¯t even know how long it took for me to snap out of it. Then a wave of cold rushed through me and I just felt great after that.¡± Warren tried to explain the peculiar feelings he had felt the moment prior to his appraisal popping up.

    Robert nodded ¡°So you felt heated all of a sudden and then followed by a cold rush?¡± He asked, leaning back in his chair in a relaxed manner.

    ¡°Yes, exactly as I¡¯ve described it,¡± Warren confirmed, wondering why Robert asked confirmation.

    ¡°So, what gift do you have, Warren?¡± Robert asked leisurely as if the story before was a completely normal phenomenon.

    ¡°Does everyone go through that?¡± Warren asked, he immediately noticed the relaxed manner of Robert and the way he wasn¡¯t surprised at all.

    ¡°Yes, though, not everyone feels it as clearly as you have. Basically, it is the core of your gift being completed and then settling in your body. The reaction to this is the heat and cold waves you felt.¡± Robert stated matter of factly.

    ¡°Well, you might ask, why didn¡¯t he tell me before, right?¡± Robert chuckled at Warren¡¯s puzzled face.

    ¡°I was going to in one of next sessions, but usually it happens close to the eight birthday or even later on in the year you turn eight. There was no immediate priority to tell you about it, I decided to get you familiar with various gifts first.¡±

    ¡°Anyway, there will be another opportunity for you to learn about other gifts. It is very important to learn about gifts, as properly understanding and using gifts is very important to success in any business.¡± Robert the scholar once more resurfaced as he lectured on the importance of learning once more. Warren nodded, trying to put his thoughts back in order after hearing nothing wrong had happened, it was even very normal to happen.

    ¡°So ¨C tell me about your gift, a reaction as yours would surely hold potential.¡± Robert smiled encouragingly.

    ¡°Two gifts, I have two gifts actually¡­¡± Warren studied Roberts face as he said the thing that had been on his mind the second he discovered it.

    ¡°Two gifts? You say you have two gifts?¡± Roberts face immediately turned serious after the shock receded from his face, his eyes twinkling intensively as if he just heard the most interesting thing in the last decade.

    ¡°Yes, the one I¡¯m most familiar with is Appraisal, I¡¯ve used it a lot during my trip through town. Basically, it gives me information in items and people. For items, it tells me what the item is, what material it consists off and what quality the product is. It sometimes also details some specifics like who made it.¡± Warren answered, trying to summarize the information best he could.

    ¡°Right, very useful indeed. So I take it you bought all the best quality stuff of what I asked you to purchase?¡± Robert smiled, apparently very pleased the gift had been used for his benefits.

    ¡°Yes, I used it a lot to verify the rules that apply to this gift,¡± Warren answered.

    ¡°And people? What does your gift tell about people?¡± Robert once more snapped back, asking relevant questions.

    ¡°Not much, name, occupation and gifts. However, whenever I try it on people their gifts come back blank.¡± Warren honestly admitted. He didn¡¯t hold back anything, he also wasn¡¯t planning to hold back either. He knew it was important to be open about this to improve their teacher-student relationship.

    ¡°Hmm. Still very useful. It would immediately tell you if you¡¯re talking to a person with some skill. This information can be used to your advantage. Don¡¯t underestimate your gift, from what I¡¯ve heard so far it is greatly useful to you.¡± Robert said seriously.

    ¡°What rules have you confirmed so far about your appraisal gift?¡±

    Warren then one by one told him of the rules he found and how he verified them.

    <ol>

    <li>One must be able to see the object or person the user wants to appraise.</li>

    <li>One must be within 5 meters of the object or person the user wants to appraise.</li>

    <li>Information on objects can increase the proficiency with items go up.</li>

    <li>Knowledge on appraised items is saved and can be reviewed at a later date.</li>

    <li>Persons are apparently very complex as the appraisal only states the name, gender, and age of the person who¡¯s appraised.</li>

    <li>The knowledge you have on people you appraise is added to the description.</li>

    <li>For every appraisal, an amount of mana is used appropriately to the size and complexness of the object that is appraised.</li>

    </ol>

    Robbert nodded ¡°Well done. Knowing the limitations of your gift is a very important step in mastering its uses. You¡¯ll find out you¡¯ll learn more and more about your gifts as you use them more. What about your other gift?¡±.

    ¡°It''s called elemental affinity.¡± Warren started, Robert immediately sat straight up and once more resumed being a cautious listener, not missing out on any detail.

    ¡°Supposedly it would make it possible to interact with natures forced. Feel the flow of mana and the density of mana. At least that was the description from my appraisal skill.¡± Warren then looked to Robert who was still sitting upright in his chair, as if waiting for more information.

    ¡°That¡¯s all you know now? Supposedly.. You¡¯ve not used it yet? And your appraisal can even appraise yourself and skills?¡± Robert asked, rapid firing his questions. Apparently, he was extremely curious to this skill.

    ¡°I have not used the skill yet. The appraisal had an immediate use and activated on itself. I''m not too sure on how elemental affinity works yet..¡± Warren answered, slightly ashamed that he hadn¡¯t tried his second gift yet. He didn¡¯t answer the other two questions, as they answered themselves as he ignored them.

    ¡°Then use it right now. I¡¯m curious towards its use. The description makes me think it could be very useful to you.¡± Robert gestured Warren to try with his hand, as he put his chair slightly back, leaning back relaxedly once more.

    ¡°Uhmm, how do I activate it? Appraisal just pops up when I want to know more about an object or person..¡± Warren asked inquisitively, he felt like he should know such a thing but since he couldn¡¯t think of a way he had no other option than to ask.

    Roberts brows shot up, apparently surprised by this situation.

    ¡°In many cases, it just naturally flows from within you, instinctively many people know how to use your gift. However, the name and description of your skill heavily focus on natures forces. Try and feel them around you, inside of you, closing your eyes might help.¡± Robert then said, even though he was surprised he had quickly come up with a hypothesis and given Warren something to try.

    Warren then closed his eyes and tried to feel if anything felt different. At first, he didn¡¯t notice anything in particular, but after a couple of breaths, he felt something, some kind of energy gently move through his body. A very subtle cool energy.

    He followed the energy, tracing it from his abdomen throughout his body. After some moments he discovered the energy was cycling through his body, his abdomen was like a battery and his body was wired into it. The energy then cycled through his body before returning to this sphere of energy in his abdomen.

    After forming a mental image of the connections that ran throughout his body he felt more enlightened. It was as if he felt more ¡®complete¡¯ than before, his improved understanding made him wonder what else he could find. Thus he turned his attention outward from his body.

    At first, he could only feel emptiness as if the surrounding was a dry desert. However, once more after concentrating he felt some traces of energy permeating the air. As he began to become more familiar with the various traces he started to feel more comfortable. Only after a while, he noticed that he must¡¯ve closed his eyes for a long time, he thus decided to inform Robert of his findings.

    He then lively and as accurately as possible tried to explain the various experiences he had gone through whilst he had his eyes closed.

    Robert pondered, musing unintelligibly, deep in thought.

    Silence fell as Warren was waiting for Robert to come with a plausible explanation.

    ¡°These energies that you feel in you, are your own mana. They circulate your body as to nurture it. This is in line with what many scientists claim that mana does within a human body.¡± Robert said, his face still looking thoughtful.

    ¡°As for the energies in the air, I presume they are nature¡¯s forces, mana that naturally spreads through the air. I haven¡¯t heard of this phenomenon before, or how humans can interact with it.¡±

    ¡°However, this is the most plausible explanation after listening to your explanation and the description of your gift. I would say it is 90% likely¡­ However, you¡¯re going to have to interact more with these energies to distinguish them. Every mana source is different in nature, each has different qualities and therefore will likely ask for a different approach.¡± Robert conjectured and explained his thoughts thus far.

    ¡°Usually gifts stir the surrounding elements, natures forces, mana, however you wish to call it by sending our own mana out to resonate with the natural forces. In your case, however, you can directly communicate with these energies. I don¡¯t know what uses you will find for it, but it is most interesting. We¡¯ll have to slowly find out as these things are very hard to understand.¡±

    Roberts'' face was serious, but Warren once more found the twinkle in his eyes, as if being very happy to be part of such a discovery.

 Chapter 8 : Exploring Natures forces

    After disclosing all information on his gifts Warren and Robert discussed some of the particulars before ending the session.

    ¡°Warren, your appraisal is pretty straightforward and has many uses. For now, focus on your second gift. It seems very abstract, but I think it holds even more potential than appraisal. Also, don¡¯t go around telling everyone that you¡¯re such an anomaly. Having some cards to fall back on is always better.¡± Robert said with his scholarly serious voice.

    After agreeing to Robert¡¯s request Warren left the office and started making his way to his own chambers. His mind was constantly processing the information he had gathered about his gifts. Trying to figure out how to proceed learning about his second gift.

    As if in a trance he arrived at his chambers, not even knowing how he got there this quickly. He had been so focused in his mind that he lost track of his own movement and simply walked there on automatic pilot.

    He gave himself a slap in the face to wake himself up thoroughly. Afterwards, he heard some giggling down the hall, he hadn¡¯t taken notice but 2 housemaids were cleaning and had seen him slap himself in front of his door. Blood ran up to his cheeks as he cursed himself for being so foolish.

    He then quickly entered his room, wanting to bury himself in his bed and forget his foolishness.

    However, before he could do so, he found some of his purchases stacked against his desk. Because of this he quickly regained his calm.

    ¡°I need to find out more about my gifts¡­¡± Warren mused. He then proceeded to his bed, crossed his legs and started to once more feel the energies around him. On the way to his chambers, he reckoned that it was best to get familiar with that state wherein he could feel the energies.

    He quickly once more found himself feeling the energies. He felt more familiar with these energies then when he first entered this state of trance.

    Warren first checked his inner energy once more. His mana was still the same as before, smoothly and slowly circulating through his body. For some reason, Warren felt happy as he felt his mana move.

    After confirming everything was the same he started to reach out to those energies outside his body. Trying to interact with them. After some time he felt as if his consciousness was reaching out from his body. This feeling felt very unreal, almost as if an invisible membrane was stretching out to the energies around him.

    At first, he felt some panic, as it was a very unnatural feeling. But as the fist nature¡¯s energies started to interact with his consciousness he quickly calmed down and felt elated.

    Without even knowing how a very primitive connection was established between him and that particular energy. He started feeling the earth, nature, every ant in the garden outside his room. He could smell the earth, feel the earth.

    If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

    Warren didn¡¯t know, as he was in a trance. But every tree, every grass, every ant, any lifeform in a hundred meter around his room grew more lively, more vibrant.

    As Warren connected deeper and deeper to this feeling he could now distinguish the different energies in the air. The most familiar energy was the earth¡¯s force. It was robust, lively, full of life.

    After indulging in these rich feelings he then let go of this connection, however, he now felt deeply familiar with this nature¡¯s force. As if a friendship was made in the moments they interacted.

    Because of his deeper understanding, he now could vaguely distinguish and feel the differences between the energies around him.

    He quickly started to approach a silvery quick, erratic moving energy. The feeling it gave was that of wind, of movement. He tried connecting to this energy, but however, he tried he could not connect to this energy.

    Because of this discovery, he retracted his consciousness, while he tried he was quickly approached by a still, lifeless form of energy. One that immediately felt sinister, hateful and spiteful. He immediately felt a threat from this energy, he urged himself to return to his body quicker.

    This feeling immediately made him feel endangered. He hadn¡¯t felt this aggression from this energy before. He had taken note of its dangerous aura but had ignored this sense of danger!

    Now the energy was quickly moving in on him like an assassin! Warren didn¡¯t know what would happen if he would come to interact with this force, but he felt that it was definitely best to retract with all he had!

    But Warren was only just slightly late! As the energy crashed into his consciousness he felt his hairs stand up on his body, his body went on high alert. His mind screamed danger. The feelings of emptiness, loneliness, darkness, anger and murderous intent crashed on his consciousness.

    He felt as if he was getting torn apart as every cell in his body tried to resist the incoming danger.

    Only after a split second his mind snapped back in action and fought back against the invader.

    Even though he could still feel the deathly aura he could once more retreat back slowly, while fighting the energy.

    As he struggled he suddenly noticed the lively fresh aura of the earthly energy that he had connected with the earlier approach. It crashed into the dark aura and as tore straight into it. As the earthly aura reached him he could feel concern and worry radiating from the earthly aura.

    He instinctively reacted that he was fine, and it seemed the energy understood as it formed a barrier against the deathly aura, gently protecting him from the dangerous aura. Warren had struggled against this dark aura but it seemed like the earthly aura was a natural nemesis to the deathly energy.

    As he almost had retracted his consciousness back in his body, a small flicker of dark aura rushed past the earth aura. He could feel the Earthly aura emotions immediately flaring up. The small speck of aura immediately crashed into his consciousness.

    However unlike he had thought this time the aura didn¡¯t feel dangerous or murderous. It almost felt like the aura was pretending to be an innocent, misunderstood entity. As Warren pondered about this change in perception he somehow started to feel a connection to this dark energy.

    Strangely enough, without his consent, he started to understand this energy more and more as his consciousness and the dark energy interacted. The bigger source of energy also stopped slamming into the lively earth aura.

    It seemed very calm and almost a happiness could be felt through the connection with the dark aura. As if it had accomplished his goal. It was no longer aggressive, it just floated around.

    As the connection grew deeper, the atmosphere around the mansion started to change. The temperature dropped a couple of degrees and the mood of people seemed to be slightly negatively influenced. If anyone saw Warren now, they would see the darkness in his eyes spreading.

    His pale face and dark eyes made him look like a monstrous existence. A faint bloodthirst could be felt emanating from his body.

    Warren, however, felt warm and cozy as he started to gain a stronger connection with this deadly aura. His mind felt elated, he somehow started to feel more relaxed with the idea of death and dying.

    He felt death was very natural. It was a natural occurrence for every living being to die at one time. Death was part of the cycle of life. As this line was repeated in his mind a couple of times, the dark energy in the room started to emanate a very pleased feeling. As if he was happy he was finally understood.

    As Warren lingered in this feeling for a while, he felt no threat anymore from the darkness. He even felt familiar with it. As the earth energy also interacted with him, as if inquiring if everything was fine with Warren, he felt like elated. As if he found a very wonderful new world to explore.

    He was excited and happy, it was a great feeling to have this familiar feeling, he thought. He then pulled his conscious back in his body after saying a quick farewell. He didn¡¯t know if the energies understood, but it just felt right to do so.

 Chapter 9 : Understanding the situation and planning the future

    After his discovery, Warren felt elated. Connecting with the energies had given him many new insights.

    As he sat on his bed he started sorting out his thoughts and making his first conjectures.

    The feeling the Earthly energy gave him was one of life and vibrancy. The Deathly energy had given him despair before the connection was established but had given him a feeling of peace and warmth afterward.

    Warren pondered about this discovery the longest. Death was a natural occurrence. Death is part of the natural cycle of life. This sentence once more ran through his thoughts. For some reason, this gave him peace of mind. He felt much calmer at the mind than he had been before.

    He now understood that the dark energy was not a ''bad'' energy. It just felt threatening because of what it represents. All humans instinctively fear death. It had tried to make a connection after ''life'' had also done that. But it seemed that the rejection had made the energy determined to try, by all means, to explain and to be understood.

    Warren chuckled, it was like the energies had the consciousness of a small child. However, as he kept pondering, he felt this to be a very natural thing. He also could not find a reason for his confidence in his conjectures. Due to the connection he simply ''felt'' that this was what the energies had communicated.

    Warren then walked to his desk, grabbed a leather-bound notebook. He had bought this earlier, as he had wanted to document his life in this new world. However, he never actually started to write... As there was very little excitement in his life so far. He''d rather erase the memories of the times he was breastfed, had diaper changes et cetera...

    But now he had something he wanted to document: the discoveries of his two gifts!

    He quickly wrote down his discoveries in a summary, as he wasn''t going to write it in the style of a book.

    "Discovered that I possess two gifts. Appraisal and Elemental affinity."

    "Appraisal is very easy to use; lets me appraise people and objects and gives a description based on par with my knowledge base. The more I know, the more it will show. People seem to be hard to thoroughly appraise, will work on that."

    "Elemental Affinity lets me connect with natures forces. For now, this only gives me the opportunity to exchange small amounts of information; feelings and intentions. If I can develop this it should be very useful! Successfully established a connection with ''life'' and ''death'' energies. Should ask Robert about this."

    After rereading it once, checking if he missed anything major, he closed the book and hid it in his drawer beneath some of his clothes. It was, after all, private information that if leaked could cause quite some uproar. Imagine hundred years of history recorded on gifts, and then being the first anomaly with two gifts...

    He then decided to not dabble any further with his experiments for the day, as it was all new and exciting. Being thorough was necessary, and he felt he could not quite get in a concentrated state. Even though his encounter with ''death'' had, in the end, benefitted him, he still felt somewhat wary about interacting with the energies. Therefore he chose to wait and gather some more mental strength before attempting any further.

    After making this careful and pragmatic decision, the rest of the day went by rather uneventfully. He decided to only consult Robert by the next day, as he himself still would need some time to digest his experiences.

    During breakfast next morning he quickly made some arrangements with Robert. His father looked suspiciously upon the vague appointment being made in front of him. The feeling of being left in the dark bothered him somewhat but he decided to ignore the feeling. He had insisted on Robert as his teacher, and given Robert free reigns in how to handle the matter. He also trusted Robert so the uncomfortable feeling was quickly suppressed.

    After breakfast, Warren followed Robert to his office in the East Wing. When they arrived they found Herbert already making 2 cups of steaming thee. Herbert had overheard their talks during breakfast and immediately went to accommodate the appointment.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    This efficiency no longer surprised Warren, nor did it Robert. They sat down in the chairs adjoining his desk. Robert sat across the desk, thanked Herbert and send him off.

    "So, you were rather adamant to have this meeting this early so there must be something you wish to tell me?" Robert''s eyes twinkled as he once more effortlessly deduced Warren''s objectives.

    "Yes, yesterday I once more tried to connect with the elements and.." Warren had thought many times about how to explain the various occurrences but now still struggled to find the right words.

    "And?" Robert''s brow creased, anticipation written all over his face.

    "Well, I succeeded in connecting with two different energies. First I connected with a very gentle natured energy. It felt like life and vibrancy, after that I could feel the earth move and breath. It was very magical."

    Robbert nodded but did not interject as he knew Warren had more to share.

    "At this point, it was like my consciousness was outside my body. Like I was floating around in space. Then a menacing, threatening energy started to move up closer to me. I panicked and tried to retreat, the gentle earthly energy then protected me from the dark energy. But it still made contact with me." Warren gave a detailed description of the entire process. Robert''s eyes had become more serious and various wrinkles were now ployed along his forehead.

    "Then something very odd happened. It made a connection with me, and after that, it turned in a very warm, very natural feeling. This deathly aura felt very misunderstood. I still do not know why or how, but it feels safe to connect with it." Warren then looked at Robert inquisitively, wanting to hear his conjectures about the events.

    Robert then nodded, acknowledging that he had heard and understood the account of the event.

    He then put up a pondering face as he slowly started to his explanation.

    "Yesterday I conjectured that these energies in the air are natures forces. This is still very likely. However, unlike various theories that I know about, these energies are very different than our own mana. Like I said before, not much is known about interacting with Nature''s forces. We stimulate these forces with our own mana, but we cannot understand the concept of these energies themselves."

    "You''re very likely the first person that is actually able to investigate these forces this deep. I know of some gifts that are similar to yours. Like those gifts that interact with controlling fire. It was widely assumed by many theorists, that by decreasing of increasing mana around a fire would make it possible to control the fire. Or even possible to lay out paths for the fire to follow."

    "However after hearing your account, it seems that these energies are much closer to a different kind of study. In theology, many believe that the world was created by God and that he created the constraints of the world. He installed laws that control everything''; fire, wind, gravity, rain, sun. All fell under the natural laws made by God."

    "There have been many beliefs throughout history, but this explanation has been adopted by many, nowadays the most dominating belief is those that believe in Yaksa. This religion is called Yanism, and this one to tells of the same world constraints. Your feelings during the interaction with these energies sound similar to the world constraints."

    "This does not mean this rings true, as many stories in religion are more symbolical than real. However, I think it is likely that these energies might follow the same concept. You''ve experienced life and death, two major laws in life. And you also mentioned something that felt like the wind. So it''s very possible there are also Nature''s forces like fire, water, earth and the like as depictured in theology. Since you feel it is safe to interact with these energies, you should continue to investigate, however, take care when doing so - this deathly aura is enough of a warning to keep your wits about."

    Warren had been listening attentively and felt Robert''s conjectures could very well be true. But it also felt like a very simple explanation, the fact that something like this hadn''t been a widespread theory bothered him a bit. But given his own experiences with the energies, he was at least inclined to believe Roberts words.

    After a quick confirmation, Robert once more continued lecturing.

    "Right, since you have established a connection with two energies, it is important to find out what they''re uses can be. They''re very mystical but should have some underlying principles that can help you smoothen communicating with them, perhaps you can order them to do various things, or maybe they can inform you of various things. This all depends on how you approach your goal. Try and discover as many of them as you can." Robert stated matter of factly.

    "Now let us move on from this subject, we should discuss your lessons, to prepare you for the test in the academy. In two years you need to be among the brightest, smartest, best educated among your peers. This task in itself is already daunting. So you''ll have a lot on your plate from now on." Robert smiled mischievously as if enjoying Warrens miserable upcoming time wherein he''ll be studying a lot.