Chapter 91- Bottleneck

Seraphina leaned back against the plush velvet seat of her carriage, gazing contently out the window as the pastoral countryside rolled by. "It feels so good to finally be free of those tiresome royal duties," she remarked to no one in particular. "Now I can return to Emberhart and see how my dear student Eric is progressing."

A smile crossed the mage's face as she imagined Eric's growth and improvement since she had been away. "He must have learned so much from his adventure in the Mistwood Forest. I can't wait to hear all about it and start instructing him in more advanced magic."

Back at Emberhart Manor, peals of joyful baby laughter rang out from the nursery. Eric and Shadow were playing with Eric's infant sister, Erica. Shadow had transformed himself into an adorable, fluffy puppy form before joining in the games.

"Peek-a-boo!" Eric exclaimed, uncovering his face to elicit another bout of gleeful giggles from Erica. She waved her chubby fists and kicked her legs excitedly in response.

Meanwhile, Shadow wagged his bushy tail nearby, bringing it around occasionally for Erica to grab. Her tiny hand would close around the soft fur, causing Shadow to yip happily and making Erica squeal in delight.

Before long, Lady Ellara entered the cheerful scene, pausing to observe her children playing so nicely together. Eric glanced up and gave her a pleading look. "Can't we stay a little longer, Mother? Erica is having so much fun!"

Ellara smiled inwardly, touched by her son's devotion to his sister, but remained firm. "No Eric, it's time for you and Shadow to go train now. I need to feed Erica and put her down for a nap."

Eric's face fell in disappointment. "Yes, Mother," he acquiesced dutifully. He stood, calling to Shadow, "Come on, let's go." The fluffy pup leapt nimbly from the crib to perch atop Eric's head as they departed. Both glanced back wistfully at baby Erica until she was out of sight.

Lady Ellara watched them go with a fond warmth in her heart, praising internally Eric's love and care for his sister. She knew this bonding time was important for them both.

As instructed, Eric headed straight for the training yards, Shadow trotting faithfully beside him. Reaching the packed-dirt grounds, Eric began his solo training regimen - running laps, squats, push-ups, and other conditioning exercises. Moving to a training dummy, he unsheathed his blunted practice sword and worked on his slashes and stabs.

As Eric went through the familiar forms, his brow furrowed. Despite all his hard work, he felt his swordsmanship had plateaued. The moves were becoming rote, and he hungered for more advanced techniques to truly challenge himself.

Eric knew his father Lord Alaric was once one of the most skilled swordsmen in the kingdom. If anyone could instruct him in more complex swordwork, it was him. Nodding to himself, Eric sheathed his practice blade and set off to find his father right away.

He located Alaric in his study, seated at his great oaken desk reviewing official documents. Eric waited respectfully for his father to notice his presence.

Looking up, Alaric raised one bushy eyebrow. "Yes, Eric? Did you need something?"

Eric stepped forward eagerly. "Father, I've come to ask a favor. I feel I've mastered the basic sword skills you've shown me. I'm hoping you might teach me some more advanced techniques now."

Alaric gazed at Eric appraisingly. The boy had indeed come far in his training. Perhaps he was ready for more.

"Very well," Alaric nodded. "It's time I passed down the secrets of the Emberhart school of swordsmanship. We'll begin at first light tomorrow."

Eric's face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you, Father! I promise I'll work hard and do you proud." He gave a deep bow before turning and hurrying off, excitement putting a spring in his step.

True to his word, Eric arrived at the training yards the next morning just as the first pink rays of dawn crested over the mountains. He did some light stretching as he waited eagerly for his father. 

To Eric's surprise, Lord Alaric soon approached wearing simple casual clothing instead of armor or training attire. 

"Good morning Eric," Alaric greeted. "I see you're excited to begin your lessons."

"Yes, Father!" Eric replied earnestly. 

Alaric chuckled. "No need to be so serious, my boy. First, let me assess your current skills."

Eric nodded and took up a practice sword. With smooth, precise motions he performed a slash and thrust at the training dummy, demonstrating his proficiency. 

Alaric nodded, clearly impressed with Eric's form and technique for one so young. "Excellent foundations, Eric. Now, shall we commence your advanced instruction?"

"Yes, please, Father!" Eric responded eagerly.

At Alaric's signal, a servant approached bearing a wooden box. He presented it with a bow to both Alaric and Eric before quickly departing. 

Eric eyed the box curiously as Alaric lifted the lid. Inside, nestled a....