Summer Break

Max's smile faded at Andrew's words. "You're not coming back?" he echoed, the words sounding harsher in the quiet of the room.

Andrew merely nodded, a determined look in his eyes. "There's something I need to sort out. It's a family matter. I have to go back, Max."

Max stayed silent, trying to absorb the sudden turn of events. He had seen Andrew as a solid presence in his life, a friend and a sparring partner who he could rely on. The thought of losing another person in this short life was frustrating.

"Promise me you'll come back, Andrew, and we will spar again." Max finally said, breaking the silence.

Andrew looked Max straight in the eyes. "I promise, Max. As soon as I can, I will come back."

With those final words, Andrew turned to his luggage and resumed packing, his movements brisk and efficient. Max stood there for a moment longer, watching Andrew before finally nodding, understanding that it was time to leave his friend in peace.

As Max exited Andrew's room, a wave of sadness washed over him. He realized that this year was indeed full of changes, changes that he hadn't been prepared for.

With a deep sigh, Max slowly walked back to his room, where Oliver was waiting for him. As he informed Oliver of Andrew's decision, his friend's face fell. "Andrew's not coming back? But why? Did he say anything?"

"He mentioned something about it being a family matter," Max replied, shrugging. "But he promised he'll be back."

"He better," Oliver muttered, a hard edge to his voice. "We are buddies, after all. He can't just leave us behind. Also, you guys are the worst friends. Leaving me alone at the academy. Watch how I beat both of you up when I see everyone again."

After packing their things, Max and Oliver left the academy grounds, making their way towards the Viscount Dresdan's manor.

At the manor, they were greeted by the Viscount himself. He welcomed them warmly, making Max feel at home. Oliver's mother, Lady Dresdan, was just as welcoming. She ushered them into the house with a kind smile, immediately setting Max at ease.

For the next few weeks, Max threw himself into training, not wanting to waste a single day resting, knowing that he needed to reach the fourth stage novice to graduate the junior academy and apply to True Academy. The vast grounds of the Dresdan Manor were perfect for practice, providing plenty of space for Max to hone his skills.

He felt a noticeable improvement in his performance, his enhanced meridians allowing for a more efficient absorption. Now his training sessions lasted hours and took on a more cruel turn. Max casted spells until he barely had any mana left. Then he started the physical training that involved running, lifting weights, and practicing with the staff, his weapon of choice.

Post the physical training, he would take a hot and steamy shower to relax and aid his muscles in recovering, and then meditate, absorbing the mana from the surroundings.

This training was repeated twice a day, with first session starting at sunrise and ending before noon, and second starting shortly after a late lunch and lasting till dinner.

Such a form of training was necessary if one wanted to develop their dual talent. If a person only had a talent to be a mage, then technically they could forgo the physical training, and vice versa for the knights, who would take on a more physical approach towards training by utilizing mana to strengthen the body and weapons.

Soon, a month went by as Max had been training every day. He was now stuck at the peak of Third Stage, unable to improve further, waiting for an opportunity to breakthrough. During this time, Oliver had broken through to reach Second Stage Novice Mage and First Stage Novice Knight, officially stepping into the ranks of a dual system practitioner.

Max, Oliver, Viscount Dresdan, along with Lay Dresdan, were sitting at the long, polished dining table, a mouthwatering spread of food before them.

"How's your training coming along, Max?" Viscount Dresdan asked, his sharp eyes studying Max.

"I've been making progress, sir," Max answered, "but I seem to have hit a bit of a wall. I'm currently at the peak of Third Stage, but I've been struggling to make the breakthrough to the Fourth Stage."

Viscount Dresdan met Max's gaze, nodding in understanding. "Ah, that can be a tricky hurdle to overcome indeed," he acknowledged.

He paused, as if carefully considering his next words. "When crossing a minor realm, you'll invariably encounter such phenomena. One common method of breaking through this bottleneck is simply to allow for a period of accumulation. However, that takes time, which you presently do not have."

Viscount Dresdan then flashed a reassuring smile. "On the other hand, sometimes what one needs for such a breakthrough is a change in environment or a shift in mindset. That's why I believe a journey to a nearby city, where I have some business to attend to, could be beneficial. Accompanying me and Oliver could offer you a refreshing break from your daily routine, which might be just what you need for the breakthrough you seek."

Max nodded thoughtfully, agreeing with the Viscount's assessment. Perhaps a change of scenery would indeed be beneficial for him.

"Thank you, sir, I would love to accompany you!" Thanked Max for an opportunity to see a different city and relax.

"Great." The Viscount then turned serious, his gaze locking onto Max. "I also have some news for you, Max. The people that I have tasked to look for your parents have sent a report. According to it, a couple matching your parents' description was spotted crossing the border into the Kingdom of Carathia."

Max's heart pounded in his chest. This was the first real lead they had gotten about his parents.

"The Kingdom of Carathia is to the west of Valtoria," Viscount Dresdan continued. "But I'm afraid the trail ends there. We lost track of them after they crossed the border."

Max was silent for a moment, absorbing the information. Even though it was vague, it was still a lead. His parents were alive, and they were somewhere in Carathia.

"But for now, Max, focus on your training and your own growth," Viscount Dresdan advised. "We'll continue to look for your parents and keep you updated on any progress. In the meantime, take advantage of the opportunities you have to improve. Every step you take now is a step closer to your parents."

Max took a deep breath, nodding in agreement. "Thank you, Viscount Dresdan. I'll do my best."

A look of approval crossed the Viscount's face. "That's all I can ask for, Max."

With that, they returned to their meal, the conversation moving to lighter topics. But in Max's mind, the resolve to break through his current stage and find his parents strengthened.

The next day, with the first light of dawn peeking over the horizon, Max, Oliver, and Viscount Dresdan boarded a carriage and set out for their journey. Their destination was Barenis, a second-tier city known for its bustling trade and dynamic culture.

While it lacked the scholarly prestige of Aldrion, Barenis boasted its own charm. Like Aldrion, it was a city teeming with activity and commerce. It was nestled within the heart of the Kingdom of Valtoria and was a crucial cog in the kingdom's economy due to its strategic location.

After a journey of slightly less than a day, the sun was setting as they finally arrived in Barenis. The city was a picture of lively chaos and orderly pandemonium, with its busy streets bustling with pedestrians, merchants hawking their wares, and the constant flow of carriages.

The cityscape was a blend of old and new, traditional and modern. Buildings of stone and timber stood alongside newer structures of brick and mortar. The architecture was less grandeur compared to Aldrion but had its distinct charm. The streets were filled with an amalgamation of various cultures, evident in the colorful banners and sigils hung outside shops and homes, adding a splash of color to the city.

After an exciting journey through the city's heart, they reached the inner city, where most of the affluent families and city officials resided. The carriage pulled up in front of a welcoming hotel, a comfortable looking place with a hospitable ambiance.

Upon settling down in their rooms, Viscount Dresdan excused himself to attend to the business that brought them here. Max and Oliver, meanwhile, decided to take this opportunity to explore Barenis. The boys navigated through the lively city, taking in the sights and sounds of a place so different from their familiar academy and the peaceful tranquility of Dresdan Manor.