PERMISSION (2)

[Vaelminia Kingdom, Royal Palace, Meridellith Region, Sylvanis CXVI AH.]

"My King."

"Yes Grand Magician, what is it?"

KIng Rowan de Eldarion, who is buried in documents, raised his head.

"Should we start to teach Her Highness, The Princess how to read and write, Your Majesty?"

"Why so sudden?"

"My apology, Your Majesty, I just received a letter that my grandson is learning how to read and write diligently."

"Really?"

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"Hm."

Putting his quill pen down, King Rowan went into his thoughts.

Although the Grand Magician Eadric said it so suddenly, it wasn't a bad idea either. Nothing is wrong with an early education. Rather, as a royal family, nurturing the young minds of the kingdom is of utmost importance. Not to mention, the princess needs to learn how to read and write for her to be able to exchange letters to the grand magician's grandson after all. 

King Rowan still remembered, although faintly, the promise he had made to his best friend while being drunk a long time ago. The promise to engage their child in a matrimonial ceremony.

"How is your grandson, Grand Magician?" the king spoke.

"He is well, Your Majesty. He recently was able to read some novice level magic and history books without much difficulty."

"Oh, so he is learning magic now? At the age of four?"

"Yes, although It's only in theoretical form, Your Majesty. It's nothing impressive."

"Most four-year-old children are either running around or making a mess, and yet your grandson is learning magic at such a young age."

King Rowan gives the grand magician an envious but satisfied look. It's good to hear that the future duke of Vaelminia Kingdom is learning diligently.

"He is still making a mess here and there, just like a four-year-old child should be, Your Majesty." 

The grand magician said as he lowered himself. He just wants to stay humble, worrying that he might sound boastful or arrogant. Although, that was his actual intention; to brag about his grandson.

"But It's impressive nonetheless."

Eadric put on a wide smile at the king's remarks. He can feel a hint of jealousy behind the king's words, but he knew that the king didn't mean any harm. A duke's son who is learning magic at an early age? Surely that news was an auspicious one for the king.

"Hmm."

Rowan pondered. He is thinking about how to arrange the best early education for the princess and what would be the best. Whether it's to receive etiquette or literacy first.

After pondering for quite some time, the king finally spoke.

"Rather than literacy, I suppose the Royal Princess needs to learn some basic etiquette first, Grand Magician."

"That's very wise of you, Your Majesty."

"It's good that you also agree with me, I'll ask the Queen to arrange for it then."

"As you wish, Your Majesty."

The king put on a smile as the grand magician gives him a light bow.

'The first impression is always important.' The king thought.

'What is the use of exchanging letters when you don't have a good impression with each other?'

The king began to make up some fake scenarios in his head. The scenarios in which his daughter and his best friend's son meet for the first time.

**

[Argentvale Dukedom, Sothastirith Region, Aetheria CXV AH.]

A few months ago in the ducal palace.

"Camilla."

"Yes, Young Master, what is it?"

"What does this word mean?"

Alaric hands over the history book he is reading to Camilla. Camilla took the book and asked?

"Which word, Young Master?"

"Here."

Alaric points out the word he was confused with his finger.

"This means that the general is falling off his horse backwards, Young Master."

"I see."

Alaric nods, indicating that he understands.

"Then how about this one?"

Alaric points out another word from the book.

"This means that the horse suddenly tripped and fell forwards, Young Master."

"So we have different words for falling?"

"Yes, Young Master. There are even words for falling when walking, falling from high places, slipping then falling and even if you drop something."

"Sounds complicated and uselessly detailed."

"I have nothing to say in that regard, Young Master; it's just the way it is."

"Hmm, I see."

Alaric taps his quill pen on his cheek a few times, trying to comprehend what he had just heard. 

Humans have developed a diverse language in Contraria. Although they still share one common language, the language used by the Primalians. Currently, Alaric is in the middle of learning that said language. Well, he's been learning this for a few months now.

"Thank you Camilla."

"It's my pleasure, Young Master."

Camilla handed the book back to Alaric and took a step back.

To accelerate his reading abilities, his father told Alaric that he should try to read some history books. This also helps Alaric to understand where the human or specifically, according to the history book he currently read, how the human races evolve and become like what is it today.

Humans are categorized into eight subspecies, according to the book. Alaric, and most of the people in the Vaelminia Kingdom, whose body features didn't change from the humans of Earth, fell into the Primalians category.

The reason why the language of Primalians is widely used, is because of that they currently sit atop the throne as the most powerful subspecies. This is thanks to the fact of the highly adaptable body of Primalians.

As such, Primalians inhabit most strategic lands such as coastline, plains, riverside, tundra, and most major landmarks. Inhabiting such lands gave Primalians the ability to monopolize all the resources available, making them rich and able to build up cities.

Other subspecies, don't have any other choice but to inhabit lands that have far less resources, and even dangerous terrain, hindering their advancement and development. That was the case, at least according to this particular book, 'The Brief History of Primalians'.

TAK TAK TAK.

Alaric rested his chin and tapped his finger while reading the book in front of him.

Although briefly, Alaric has read the journal of his great master, Merlin. What fascinates him is that the content of the book that is currently in front of him contains a similar outline of what happened in the past; albeit incomplete. 

It's still missing an important part of human evolution, the one that civilizations collapse and revert back to hunter gatherer society. The real driving force of humans ended up inhabiting all parts of Contraria and evolved as it is today.

"Camilla."

"Yes, Young Master."

"Can you ask the librarian if there are any other books like this one? The one that explains the evolutions of humans, not just Primalians."

"As you wish, Young Master. I will ask the librarian."

Camilla dismissed herself to ask the librarian who was closing his eyes due to boredom. Soon, Camilla came back.

"The librarian said that the book is the official book that is widely used in the academy, Young Master. As such there are no other similar books. Although, there are books that are written based on this book."

"I see."

"Would you like me to bring some of the books to you, Young Master?"

"No, it's fine. Thank you, Camilla."

"It was my pleasure, Young Master."

With his gaze fixed on the words, Alaric takes a moment to think.

'It's just as my Master said.' he thought.

'The records of the past are gone, humans here don't even know that they once lived on a different planet.'

While learning your own history is important, there are still too many ambiguous theories mixed up in the book. That is given, afterall, the past records are gone so Contrarians racking their brains to come up with a scenario about their origin. Even if the evidence provided is lacking and full of holes, it's still persuasive nonetheless.

Alaric, who already knows the truth, can only smirk at the funny theories. It was amusing, but that was it, it offered only entertainment.

Considering this, Alaric chose to set aside the book and leave the library.

*

I'm tired. 

Not because of these stupid books that the teacher told me to read, but because I have to act like I don't know anything.

Everyone seems to believe that humans are a divine being who is blessed by mana and that we are at the center of the universe. 

What is more mindblowing is that, despite having unbelievable power and knowledge, thanks to mana, they still think that Contraria is a flat shaped plane that is covered with a giant dome. That's obviously not the case, since Mehrunse wrote that Contraria is a celestial 'orb'.

I can imagine that they also still believe that the sun is rotating around us, not the other way around.

Keeping up with all that drained me, not only in body but thoughts. I believe that my decision to keep my reincarnation and the existence of the Tower of Avalon was the right choice.

From the numerous book that I read, I can conclude that when the people knew my secret, not only Vaelminia Kingdom, but the whole world would be in chaos. Someone might even try to assassinate me.

That is precisely the reason why putting up an act of a child who is just to learn how the world works is difficult. Especially if you know the truth.

"Alaric, did you hear what I said?"

I flinched, just a bit.

"Yes, Mother."

I see that my mother frowned at my answer.

Currently, she's nagging me, just like she always does. I don't even know what I did wrong. No, no, I guess I knew. It's just not something that she should be so angry about, especially if that is the first thing she does in the morning.

"I know you want to learn about magic, but secretly reading magic books is forbidden."

"I'm tired of reading only history books, Mother."

"So you're tired of studying?"

"No, Mother. I enjoyed it."

"But you said you are tired of it."

"I just want to read something else, Mother."

I didn't lie. Reading history is always fun for me. The problem is the content. Why? It's because the absurd mixed up theory has little to none meaning. Why would I learn the history of humans when the most important part is being left off?

It's like eating fried mendoan without soy sauce and chili. Bland and left an awful aftertaste.

"But a magic book is forbidden."

"I understand, Mother. I'm sorry."

"Good."

I want to refute, but even though she is like that, she is still my mother. At the very least I should listen to her nagging. It's also the fastest way to stop it anyway.

"Now, let's go eat breakfast. Your father must be waiting."

"Yes, Mother."

"And don't ever think about reading magic books again. You are still too young."

"Yes Mother. I understand."

I could feel her soft and gentle hand brushing my hair. She was smiling at me.

I knew that she would always forgive me for what I did; even if it makes her angry.

In any case, I read some magic books not because I don't know anything about magic. I've already experienced it firsthand with Master Viviane's book, so I understand its principle. 

So, why did I waste my time learning a knowledge that I already possess? It's because I want to know exactly how far the magic had progressed after the fall of civilizations. 

So that's why, I will read the magic book again later. In secret of course since mother clearly said magic books are off limits.

Apologizing is always easier to do than getting permission.

*

[Argentvale Dukedom, Sothastirith Region, Aurorilis CXVI AH.]

6 months later.

KNOCK KNOCK.

"Pardon me, Your Grace."

"Yes, come in."

A young man in glasses and formal attire enters the room. Both the duke and grand butler turn their heads at the man.

"Your Grace," 

Sir Quillweaver began, his voice warm with respect as he stepped into the grand chamber.

The Duke, seated at his ornate desk, looked up from his documents with a nod. 

"Sir Quillweaver, welcome. How is my son doing?" he inquired, his concern evident in his tone.

"Young Master is a smart and diligent kid, Your Grace." 

Sir Quillweaver replied with a smile, his eyes twinkling with genuine fondness for his student.

The Duke chuckled softly, shaking his head. 

"You sure flatter him too much, Sir Quillweaver," he remarked, though there was a hint of pride in his voice.

"Haha, It's the truth, Your Grace," Sir Quillweaver chuckled in return, his demeanor earnest. 

"I don't have anything to teach him anymore."

As the conversation unfolded, Sir Quillweaver couldn't help but feel a swell of pride for the progress the young master had made under his guidance. The Duke's son had grown not only in knowledge but also in character, embodying the virtues of a true nobleman.

"Indeed, Sir Quillweaver," the Duke agreed, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. 

"It seems our young master has surpassed even our highest expectations, Sir Quillweaver."

With a sense of satisfaction, Sir Quillweaver nodded, knowing that the time had come to present the Duke's son with a challenge worthy of his intellect and skill. It was a moment he had been eagerly anticipating, eager to see just how far the young master had come on his journey of learning and growth.

"Your Grace," Sir Quillweaver began, his tone carrying a hint of excitement as he approached the Duke once more.

The Duke, ever attentive to matters concerning his son's education, looked up with interest. 

"Sir Quillweaver, what news do you bring?"

"Your Grace, I am pleased to report that Young Master's progress in reading and comprehension is remarkable for his age," Sir Quillweaver stated proudly, his eyes sparkling with admiration for his young pupil.

The Duke's brow lifted in pleasant surprise. 

"Truly? At such a tender age?"

"Yes, Your Grace, he is a remarkable kid," Sir Quillweaver confirmed. 

"His grasp of letters and words is quite advanced, and he shows a keen interest in exploring the world through the pages of books." Sir Quillweaver continued.

The Duke's heart swelled with pride at the news of his son's scholarly achievements. 

"I am delighted to hear it, Sir Quillweaver. What do you propose next?"

"If I may, Your Grace," Sir Quillweaver began, his mind already formulating a plan. 

"I believe it is time to challenge the Young Master with some books that will not only test his reading skills but also his comprehension and imagination."

The Duke nodded in agreement, eager to see his son's abilities put to the test. 

"What do you have in mind, Sir Quillweaver?"

"I have selected a few age-appropriate tales, filled with adventure and wonder," Sir Quillweaver explained. 

"I propose that we present them to the Young Master and assess his understanding of the plot, characters, and themes."

"An excellent idea," the Duke declared with a nod. "Let us see how our Young Master fares in this new challenge."

With a shared sense of anticipation, Sir Quillweaver and Duke Argentvale made preparations to introduce the Young Master to the world of storytelling, eager to witness the blossoming of his young mind as he embarked on this new literary adventure.

*

A sudden knocking sound startled Alaric.

KNOCK KNOCK

Camilla's gentle knock echoed through Alaric's study, causing him to jump in surprise. He glanced up from his books, his young face curious yet wary. 

"Who's there?" he called out tentatively.

"It's me, Camilla, Young Master Alaric," came the soft reply from behind the door.

Alaric relaxed slightly, recognizing his personal maid's voice. 

"Please come in, Camilla," he said, setting aside his quill and parchment.

The door creaked open, revealing Camilla's kind face framed by wisps of her pink hair. She stepped into the room with a small smile, her eyes filled with warmth and some concern. 

"Young Master, forgive the interruption, but I bring news from Sir Quillweaver and your father, the Duke," she began.

Alaric's brow furrowed in confusion. 

"News? What news?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.

Camilla approached his desk, her steps light and graceful. 

"They wish to speak with you regarding your progress in your studies, Young Master," she explained gently.

Alaric's heart quickened with apprehension. He had been diligent in his lessons, but the thought of facing Sir Quillweaver and his father made him quite nervous. 

"Why do they want to see me?" he wondered aloud.

"I'm sure it's nothing to worry about, Master Alaric. Perhaps they simply wish to discuss your future plans," she said with a soothing voice.

Alaric nodded slowly, trying to quell the rising unease in his chest. 

"Very well, Camilla. Thank you for informing me," he said, mustering up a small smile. 

"I suppose I should go and see what they want," Alaric adds.

Camilla nodded in agreement and excused herself, Alaric couldn't help but wonder what awaited him in his father's chambers; he was being diligent and obedient, yet a lingering sense of unease gnawed at him. 

With each step down the corridor, the weight of anticipation grew heavier upon his shoulders. 

What secrets did his father and Sir Quillweaver hold behind those imposing doors? Alaric's mind raced with possibilities, his imagination painting vivid scenes of intrigue and mystery.

As he reached the grand entrance to his father's chambers, Alaric paused, his hand hovering uncertainty over the ornate handle. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for whatever awaited him on the other side. 

With a steady resolve, he knocked on the door.

"Father, it's me, Alaric," he said.

Alaric could hear his father's response to tell him to come inside. 

With heavy feet, he stepped into the dimly lit room, the flickering flames of the hearth casting eerie shadows across the walls.

Inside, Duke Aldric sat behind his desk, a stern expression etched upon his features. Beside him stood Sir Quillweaver, his piercing gaze fixed upon Alaric. The atmosphere was tense, charged with an unspoken tension that hung heavy in the air. 

Alaric's heart pounded in his chest as he awaited his father's words, his mind racing with a myriad of possibilities. What could his father and Sir Quillweaver possibly want from him now?

Duke Aldric's voice broke the silence, his tone grave as he addressed his son. 

"Alaric, there is a matter of great importance that requires your attention," he began, his words sending a shiver down Alaric's spine. 

"Sir Quillweaver and I have been discussing about you, and we believe it is time for you to take a small test, to mark your end of studying."

Alaric's eyes widened in surprise, his mind reeling at the revelation. 

'A test!? Again!?' He thought.

'I've had enough of that Father.' 

He wanted to say that out loud, but surely it would be rude to his father, not to mention, his teacher also there.

'This goddamn family, just let me learn some magic, for god sake.'