The beginning of Emir's life.

In the aftermath of the harrowing conflict, marked by futile attempts to apprehend the intruder, Zelanor drew deep, steadying breaths, steeling himself before rejoining Emir and his mother. The battlefield was a testament to their failure, yet it was a stark reminder of the resilience they possessed.

Emir held his mother in his arms as she gave in to a torrent of tears, her relief palpable as she clung to her only child. She had faced the chilling reality of losing him amidst the chaos, and now, having him safe and sound left her overwhelmed. Her embrace was tighter, fervent in its intensity, a silent vow never to let go.

Zelanor returned, his heart heavy with frustration yet he managed to pull a smile onto his face. It was a mask, a facade to assure them that all was not lost. "I'm relieved to find you both safe," Zelanor began, his words heavy with sincerity. "I can't promise to fix everything that's been broken, but I need to understand something. What secret are you harboring?"

The question hung in the air, an echo of his determination to unearth the truth behind the stranger's alarming visit. It was clear to Zelanor that the intruder hadn't arrived without reason.

Aliya responded, her voice barely above a whisper, "He claimed he was pursuing the powers of the Seven Celestials."

"The Seven Celestials?" Zelanor echoed, his mind racing with this revelation. "Noted. Is there anything else?"

"I... I can't remember anything else. Where do we go from here?" Her voice trembled with uncertainty.

"I bear the burden of his escape," Zelanor admitted, his gaze hardening. "So, it's on me to provide for you. Your son... Emir, he's shown remarkable potential. The academy could use someone like him, someone who can hold his ground against formidable adversaries despite his tender years. That is truly commendable." A smile crept onto Zelanor's face as he affectionately patted Emir's head, a glimmer of hope shining in his eyes.

"The institution in question? Which might that be?" Aliya inquired, a note of curiosity in her voice.

"The one of notable reputation and high honor, Valmark Academy."

"That's... That's... BEYOND OUR MEANS!" Aliya's words fragmented into a stutter, her shock palpable upon hearing such unexpected news.

Valmark Academy was a global paragon, its curriculum all-encompassing. Attaining high grades there could earn one prestigious commendations, even paving the way to become a warrior of Zenric, their homeland.

Numerous academies in the nation held semblance to Valmark, yet they were leagues away, both in terms of quality and geographical distance. Valmark was notorious for its exclusivity, an academy for the nobility, a luxury that only the affluent could afford. However, for Zelanor and his lavish wealth, the cost was but a trifling matter.

"I've seldom encountered such a prodigious child, it would be a crime to squander his latent potential. The boy needs education, polish, and worldly wisdom to truly rise to prominence. Yet the decision lies with you. I can offer you a safe haven, but I'm also prepared to sponsor your son's education at this esteemed institution. Do you consent?" Zelanor presented his proposition with the utmost gravity, his arms folded and eyes serious. He was not merely extending a helping hand, but investing in their future.

Aliya, her fingers nervously intertwining while she looked down, a coy smile playing on her lips and cheeks flushed with warmth, replied, "Well, as you're proposing enrolment at the most "EXTRAVAGANT" of schools. I suppose I won't object to entrusting my Emir to you, for the sake of his promising future."

"Mama?" Emir was caught in a whirl of disbelief, an eyebrow arching in surprise at his mother's sudden transformation into a bashful, blushing figure, as she seemingly bartered him off to a stranger who had generously offered to finance his education.

"Come on~ Imagine the possibilities~, a life filled with companionship, mentors, and perhaps even romance!" Aliya mused, her eyes sparkling with excitement and her aura palpably brimming with affection. "Oh, the mere thought sends my head spinning~!"

"Mama..." Emir's voice was laced with uncertainty. His education had been informal, solely received from his mother who shared her knowledge and understanding of the world. Doubts weighed heavily on him, causing a sigh to escape his lips.

"Fear not, dear boy. Schools are the cradle of wisdom, but don't let the fear of the unknown trouble you. Knowledge isn't the sole key to acceptance. Even those with limited learning can join this institution. I am confident that with your innate strength, you'll undoubtedly excel," Zelanor assured him, his hand gently caressing his head as he offered a comforting smile.

Emir decided to heed his mother's advice.

[Days later]

In the wake of recent events and the chaos that Zelanor had been diligently resolving, Emir and his mother found themselves in a city, unlike anything they had ever experienced. This metropolis, teeming with awe-inspiring locations and breathtaking structures, was their new home. Zelanor had bought them a house, providing for every necessity and refusing to incur any debts.

Emir, in their new living room, struggled to don the unfamiliar uniform. His initial attempt resulted in a disheveled mess, prompting his mother to step in and rectify the situation.

"I am filled with such pride at being able to make this dream a reality. I've always feared that I couldn't give you the life I never had, but now... I'm overcome with gratitude that I've been able to make you the happiest boy," she said.

"But, Mama... if you hadn't been there for me... I wouldn't be here. You've given me life, survival, and a gift for being your son. All I wanna say is, as I've told you time and again... I love you. And I can never replace you, hehe." Emir answered, his smile radiant and warm, assuring his mother that he would never seek a substitute for her.

Aliya's heart swelled with emotion, her gratitude for her son's existence almost overwhelming. Her embrace tightened, a physical manifestation of her deep love for him. "Thank you..." she whispered through her tears.

As she wiped her tears, she finally let go of her son where he put his shoes on before his leave.

"I'm heading off!" Said Emir with a smile.

Proud and filled with ecstasy, Aliya waved at her son with a smile as well.

Thus, the story of Emir had begun.