Dungeon 1
After lunch, Leo and Asher faced each other in the garden, wielding wooden swords.
Leo is focused on becoming a knight, as evidenced by the solid foundation of his stance.
Asher takes the initiative, slashing towards Leo.
He defends with his wooden sword.
"Fast. And this power. Underestimating it could lead to a quick defeat," Leo said to himself as he became more cautious.
He activates a martial technique, "Slash Break."
Instinctively, Asher defends and steps back, releasing the impact.
Slash Break enhances the cut, capable of even severing rocks.
"Big Brother Leo, impressive. Now it's my turn," Asher says, swiftly moving behind him with the Thunderous Step technique, placing the wooden sword at his neck.
"Haha. I thought I couldn't lose as your older brother, but this is a complete defeat," Leo laughs.
"Shall we end it here?" Asher asks.
"No, let's go for another round. I won't lose next time," Leo's eyes burned with fighting spirit as he spoke.
The two continue exchanging martial techniques and footwork in their sparring.
After numerous rounds, Leo lies down, breathing heavily.
"I've trained quite a bit too, but Ash, you're too strong for five years old. What do you think for your future?" he asks.
"The future? I haven't really thought about it," Asher replies.
"Father is always enthusiastic about education and training, but I don't think he'd force anything. You're only five, no need to rush to think anything," Leo said.
"Hmm," Asher nodded.
As footsteps approach, they see their big sister, Silvia.
"Good job, both of you. I've been watching from halfway, and it's impressive," she praises them.
"Thank you," they respond.
"Ashu, do you have plans for the rest of the day?" Silvia inquires.
"Not particularly."
"In that case, after changing, come to my room. I'll teach you some studies, Leo you too."
"Ugh. I excel in fighting skills, but studying is not my forte," Leo complains.
"You should be grateful you left a mark in the martial arts tournament; otherwise, it would have been difficult for you in the academy," Silvia said, "But you still need to study."
"I'll come to you shortly, Big Sister Silvia," Asher said.
Asher, who struggled with studies in his past life, now eagerly wanted to go to Silvia's room, finding joy in accumulating knowledge through reading.
Back in the room, after changing quickly, he knocks on Silvia's door, ready for the lesson.
"Ashu, you can read and write, right?" Silvia confirms.
"Yes, I can read reasonably well," Asher replies.
"Then let's start from the basics."
Silvia patiently explained using textbooks and notes she had compiled.
While Asher enthusiastically tackles the assigned tasks, Leo, next to him, wears a despairing expression, grappling with the given homework.
"Studying even after coming home..." Leo grumbles.
"Focus on solving the problems instead of complaining," Silvia advises.
Leo's academic ordeal continues.
---
Today, Asher joined his older brother and sisters as they ventured into a nearby dungeon, traveling by carriage.
"Ashu, it's your first time diving into a dungeon, right?" Silvia asked.
"Yes, I haven't ventured into a dungeon before," Asher nodded and said.
"The dungeon we're tackling this time is of an intermediate level, but considering Ash's skills, there shouldn't be any issues," Leo thought and said.
"Even though caution is essential, with Ash's swordsmanship that overwhelms Leo and the ability to use magic, I have high expectations," Eris said.
Asher was glad that his siblings were happy about his skills and powers instead of getting jealous like the drama he saw in his previous life.
During the carriage ride, they had a light lunch, and by early afternoon, they smoothly arrived at the intended dungeon.
As they got out of the carriage, Asher noticed the attention from the surroundings.
"It seems like we're drawing some attention," Asher said.
"While others explore dungeons for a living, we might appear as wealthy enthusiasts engaging in it as a hobby," Silvia shrugged and said. She drawn such attention many times.
A man walks toward them from the onlookers.
"Hey, rich folks, it's fine to enjoy your hobby, but bringing brats to the dungeon is pushing it," The man said as he looked at Asher.
"We are members of the Yarlow Marquis's family, entrusted with managing this dungeon by the kingdom. It's none of your concern," Eris said as he looked at the man.
"The Marquis's family, huh? Even if that's true, allowing a kid like this to accompany you is questionable," The man frowned and said.
The carriage bears the Yarlow family crest, but apart from a few adventurers, it's challenging to identify which family they belong to based on the crest.
Hearing the commotion, soldiers responsible for the dungeon's management hurry over.
They are familiar with the main family's crest and strive to handle the situation politely.
"Is there a problem?" The soldier asked.
"We are fine with it, but this guy has been complaining about Ashu accompanying us," Ava said.
"Young Master Asher is still just a child, isn't he?" The soldier said as he looked at Asher.
"Even so, he's much stronger than me," Leo interjects.
"Stronger than Young Master Leo? I can't make that judgment. Would it be acceptable to consult with my superior?" The soldier asked.
"No need for that."
Unnoticed, a man wearing more impressive armor than the surrounding soldiers approaches.
"Captain Morgan, it's been a while," Eris smiled and said.
"Long time no see. I've heard that Young Master Asher is strong enough to win in mock battles with the knight order, so there should be no issue. Moreover, if he's here, it must have the Marquis's approval," Captain Morgan said.
"Of course, I have my father's approval," Eris said.
"Then please proceed."
"Thank you."
Asher and the others, led by Leo, disappear into the dungeon.
Captain Morgan lets out a sigh.
"I understand being earnest, but be mindful of who you pick fights with. Seriously, if it weren't a joke, you could have faced charges of disrespect and lost your head."
"My apologies."
The man returns dejectedly to his companions, consoled by them.