Ch. 3 – Maiden Voyage: Inaugural Steps into the Unknown P.7

...

As I am living here, there are many things that I learnt.

I remembered that Lady Stewart told me, there are many useful technologies used in the capital. People do not have to use wood to cook and there is a heater using a magic rune. Hearing her story is not much different from Earth. We also have those kinds of things. Maybe I won't be impressed by it if I don't see it by myself.

Besides that, I love to watch them use magic in their daily life. Simple things like lighter can be easily created with a snap in a finger. I wonder if there is a plant magic that a human can use. I know other races like the Druid can conjure and manipulate nature.

In the woods, I spend my time with Ellis to find some herbs. After asking Ellis about my concern, she replied, "there is but only a druid can use that kind of magic. Even though there are not many humans able to do that magic and control it." That is because a plant is like a human that grows from a seed and nurtures from water and sun. To make it grow fast like that you need an incredible amount of mana. There would be no meaning in life if humans can do all of it.

Well she is right though. I wonder if humans can do anything in their life and they would lose the meaning to live. But it still would make it easier for humans to live without worrying about food. Put the seed and grow a tree instantly and take the fruit and repeat the process. How much money they could monopolize if they can have a Druid as their possession.

She really taught me a lot and amazed me with her vast wisdom.

…

In the evening, I spend my time outside, feeling the cool breeze against my skin. While I may not possess the flashy magic abilities of some of the other youth, who can conjure flames, control water, manipulate earth, or launch enemies into the sky, I have honed my own unique skill. The power to bend the wind and transform it into a weapon has become my signature approach. However, I admit that my reluctance to showcase my abilities stems from insecurity. I'm apprehensive about how my wind manipulation would be perceived by others, and I fear being an outcast due to my differences.

As I practice my wind manipulation in solitude, I suddenly hear the familiar voices of the local children. They approach me with a mix of curiosity and disdain.

"Your magic is incredible!" I say, trying to be friendly.

Boy 1 scoffs. "Ha! Look at you, the loser."

Boy 2 sneers. "I thought you were special, but you're just a muggle."

Girl 1 giggles. "Can't you see his hair? He's just an old man."

Their words cut deep as they mock my white hair, a stark contrast to their vibrant youth.

Girl 2 chimes in, "How's a grandpa supposed to use magic anyway?"

Their mockery quickly escalates to physical pushing. Laughter echoes as they ridicule my unconventional magic usage. My approach seems odd to them since I manipulate wind rather than the typical elemental magic. Their taunts sting, and I find myself feeling excluded. It's moments like these that make me yearn for the magical teachings my parents could have provided.

Suddenly, Arnold steps in and ushers me away from the ridicule. He leads me home, understanding the turmoil I'm grappling with. I can't help but feel frustrated about my parents' absence, blaming them for my lack of magical education.

"If they were here, I could be learning magic right now," I think bitterly to myself.

Back in my room, I find solace, with only Elijah's cheerful presence for company. Arnold, Ellis, and Elijah wait outside, knowing that I need time to myself. Shadows cast by their concerned figures slip beneath the door gap.

Ellis's voice is gentle but worried. "Are they bothering you again?"

Arnold responds calmly, "Kids will be kids, Oruvan. Don't let them get to you."

They leave me to my thoughts until sleep claims me. Ellis rouses me only for meals, her gentle presence a reminder that despite the challenges, I'm not alone in this unfamiliar world.

… 

(Dinner time - At the table)

Dinner time arrives, and the table is set with a warm, inviting meal. Despite the comforting atmosphere, my mood is still sour from the day's events.

"How was your day today?" Ellis asks gently.

"Hmm, just fine," I responded curtly, unable to hide my unhappiness.

"Did you make any new friends?" she continues, trying to engage me.

"Ugh, I don't really want to be friends with those high and mighty individuals. They're just showing off," I reply, my frustration evident.

Ellis sighs softly. "Oruvan, please listen to me. Magic isn't—"

"I know, okay? I know I can't use magic. I get it, and I understand it's because my parents weren't around to teach me properly. But I don't want to be seen as a complete failure just because of that," I interrupt, my voice rising with emotion.

I realize my frustration is misdirected. They are only trying to help, but the feeling of inadequacy and the day's events have worn me down.

(Why am I acting like a child? Damn it, I'm 30 years old now!) I chastise myself internally, struggling to reconcile my adult mind with the emotions of a young boy.

Ellis reaches across the table and places a comforting hand on mine. "Oruvan, your worth isn't measured by your ability to use magic. You are strong and resourceful, and you have a kind heart. Those qualities are far more important."

Arnold nods in agreement. "She's right. The village kids may not understand now, but you'll show them your true value in time."

Elijah, who has been quietly listening, speaks up. "Brother, I think you're amazing. You protect me and take care of me. That's the best magic."

His words touch me deeply, and I feel a warmth spread through my chest. I look around at the faces of those who care for me, and I realize that despite the challenges, I'm not alone.

"Thank you," I say quietly, my voice softening. "I'm sorry for taking my frustration out on you."

I thanked them for the meals and left early when my food was barely finished to head to bed.

...