Chapter 3: The Pupil of Destiny

After the clandestine meeting, the anonymous nobleman informed the woman that the child would be named "Erik." He entrusted her with vital matters and instructed her never to reveal the child's true identity, even in the face of dire threats. With that, he, the captain, and the rest joined their steamship at the harbor and set sail for the unknown realms of the North.

At this moment, the woman emerged from the wooden cabin, cradling Erik, to meet her husband. They embarked on a small sailing vessel, bound for the depths of the fjord, traversing through a multitude of majestic mountain ranges. The peaks of the fjord stood towering, their forms diverse, bathed in the brilliance of the morning sun. On the azure water surface, the reflections of the mountains swayed with the ripples, painting a vivid picture of nature's grandeur. Ultimately, they arrived at a tranquil, harmonious little town.

Here, Erik grew up gradually. His father began to take him out to sea, fishing with the other fishermen. He taught Erik how to control the sails using ropes, the art of sailing. As the fishing season concluded, he would also take Erik deep into the forests to forage and hunt. Erik's mother, honoring the agreement, hired the town's most renowned tutor, Danny, to educate Erik in languages, culture, mathematics, physics, history, and etiquette. Danny, a well-traveled and knowledgeable individual, had chosen to return to his hometown to nurture its youth.

Erik's learning abilities and understanding exceeded Danny's expectations. He could astutely point out the flaws in historical battles and political decisions, and he also harbored a passion for physics. This forced Danny to order textbooks from France and Germany from the ocean going vessels' captains who docked each season. Danny told Erik's parents that the last time he saw a child so enthusiastic about learning was thirty years ago when he was teaching French to princes in India.

As time went on, Erik's knowledge and skills continued to grow, and his intelligence began to draw the town's attention. He would often assist in repairing old boats at the seaside dock or help the children in town with their studies under Danny's guidance. His kindness and intelligence earned him respect and affection from the townsfolk.

However, despite the seeming tranquility of life, Erik's parents constantly reminded him to stay vigilant and not to reveal his true identity to anyone. They told him that even though this town was far removed from worldly chaos, they could never let down their guard.

One day, Erik encountered an old man in front of the church. The man stared at the silver necklace around Erik's neck, his eyes filled with surprise and curiosity. He stopped Erik, asking, "Where did you get this necklace?" Erik's eyes widened, a wave of unease suddenly washing over him...