Counter offer.

Now, while I don't believe this old man is looking to do me any harm. But just because my parents trust him does not mean that I should. I do not really know the ins and outs of the family yet. I do not wish to shackle myself with burdens I cannot weight and debts I cannot pay.

"I am grateful for your offer and flattered that the Vongola are willing to go to such extents on my account. For that, I am truly grateful." I thanked him sincerely.

It was truly an amazing offer, and I sensed no deceit in him, only generosity and sincerity.

This man, my grandfather, had truly acted like family should.

"I rejected you offer not out of spite or ignorance of its significance but because it was simply too much." I told him.

"It was way more than I could ever need." I added.

This response seemed to take them by surprise.

Ignoring their looks, I took out my notepad and opened it. I didn't get the notepad from my mum because it matched my outfit or just to look cool.

"Have a proposal of my own I would like to give. If you wouldn't mind." I said.

To which his gestured I proceed with a nod.

Looking down at my notes, I said

"Firstly, I do agree with the relocation to a remote island to training. However, I do not need the numerous experts offered, just one that is responsible for homeschooling me.

Secondly, a gym facility, small living space, a library, a weapons room, and a large open, well ventilated area to train are all that I need.

Thirdly, when I am 8 years of age, I will require a few strong and skilled sparing partners. Few being 5 to 10.

Fourthly, I would like a monthly allowance of 1500 USD.

Finally, and most importantly, I would like a personal attendant skilled in business management to be in charge of taking care of my needs and well-being."

Darting my eyes to Sebastian for a moment before returning.

I pause for a bit before continuing

"As for the limitations and requirements.

Firstly, the Vongola test shall take place when I am 11 instead of 14, but if I pass I get to make a request within reason.

Second, the moment I step off the island, all resources, funds, and perks begin provided are to be cut off until I return.

Thirdly, once I started school, I lose access to the island and all its benefits. This offer is considered completed and is terminated.

Fourthly, if I am not in the top 5 heroes of Japan by 30, I will withdraw from the hero community and come work for the family.

Lastly, I would like an itemised bill for every expense from when I first set foot on the island to when I start my first day of school." I ended.

I was greeted with utter silence. Emphasising the sheer ridiculousness of my request. I rejected a mountain of gold for a pot of copper. My decision becomes even more ridiculous when you take into account that I had asked to be born into a family at the peak of the world for the privilege and resources they would provide. Now, I am rejecting the very purpose of my request.

"That's an interesting proposition. An easy one too, considering how much of a downgrade it is from the first offer." My grandfather hummed.

"I can accept your offer, but would you mind telling me your reasoning behind such an offer?" He gently asked.

Ordinary I would not tell him the truth reason behind my request and probably made up some half-assed lie, but throughout this negotiations, I can feel his genuine concern and care for me.

Breathing in sharply and exhaling. I looked him in his bright, fiery eyes. There was no judgement, ridicule, or contemptment. Just concern and focus, as though I was the only person in the room, the only one that mattered.

I wanted to show him the same courtesy he had shown me.

Looking down, hanging my head in shame and defeat, I replied.

"Because I am weak."

I paused. Searching for the strength to continue or any reason to stop.

"I do not have the discipline required to have access to such resources and not abuse it. If I agree, I know I will lose sight of my goal and drown myself in pleasure." I stated with great difficulty. Shrinking into my seat and shaking at the end.

In front of others and my parents, I revealed my inadequacies.

I felt vulnerable.

Before my rebirth, I was just an average teen, nothing special. Although, I come across as intelligent now, it is mainly due to my mental age and my appearance.

I am still the same average person I was. When learning to use my flames, my biggest challenge was the pain. It was staying consistent, constantly training it despite the progress seeming insignificant. I had almost given up countless amounts of times. Were it not for the lack of proper entertainment and the tedium of school. I would have never made it this far.

"I see. This concludes our meeting. Please let Sebastian take you back to your room to rest while I hammer out the final details with your parents." The old man said in a calming tone.

Pov third

The three remaining people watched the young boy and Sebastian leave the room.

They could clearly tell that the final confession was a very difficult thing for Dante to admit, and doing so had taken a great toll on him.

Ezio slowly reached over to his wife to reassure her. He knew that this was not something Danteneededd to be comforted over. It was a great development. Not every weakness needs to be confronted, sometimes it's better and wiser to simply avoid it.

"That boy. That boy." Giovanni sighs.

"If he decides to run for the title of Head, Leo will have to prepare for a fierce battle." He added.

In that room on that day, all those present were highly revered and sought after in their own fields with different perspectives and beliefs, but after the conclusion of that meeting.

They all shared a newfound respect for one, Dante .D. Vongola.