The Gift of Knowledge

The day after Lucian's incredible display of magical talent, his parents made a decision that would change the course of his life forever. Determined to nurture their son's extraordinary abilities, Alden and Elara started saving money over the past five years. Five years later, they had collected a modest sum, but it represented countless hours of hard work and sacrifice. They took this precious hoard and went to the city marketplace, purchasing a basic introductory magic book—an investment in Lucian's future.

When they returned home with the book, their faces were a mixture of excitement and hope. They presented it to Lucian with reverence, their hearts swelling with pride as they watched him eagerly accept the gift. At only six years old, Lucian's intellect and abilities were already far beyond his years.

"Thank you, Mother, Father," Lucian said, his small voice filled with sincerity and gratitude. He opened the book, his eyes gleaming with anticipation as he began to read.

The book provided a wealth of knowledge about the basics of magic. Lucian devoured the information, integrating it with his scientific understanding of the world. He learned how to harness and store mana within his heart, using it as a reservoir to channel mana through his veins and manipulate the surrounding energy to cast various basic spells.

Unlike other mages, who typically had a single or dual elemental affinity, Lucian's profound knowledge of chemical compounds and elements granted him a unique advantage. Most mages could master one or two elemental magics, and those who could perform integration magic—combining two elements—were rare and highly regarded. However, Lucian's understanding of the physical states of matter and their interactions granted him an affinity with all elements, allowing him to cast a wide range of basic spells. His scientific insight enabled him to innovate and modify these spells with unparalleled precision.

One evening, as Lucian practiced in the small backyard of their home, he focused on the element of fire. He recalled the basic fire spell from the book, which produced a red flame. But Lucian's mind buzzed with possibilities. He knew that fire was a chemical reaction, and the color of the flame could be altered by changing the elements involved.

*Hydrogen burns with a blue flame,* he thought. *If I can manipulate the surrounding mana to incorporate hydrogen molecules from the air...*

He concentrated, channeling mana through his veins and envisioning the molecular structure of hydrogen. With a surge of willpower, he cast the fire spell. Instead of the usual red flame, a brilliant blue fire erupted from his hand, flickering intensely in the evening light. The blue flame was hotter and more powerful than the standard red fire, a testament to Lucian's innovative application of scientific principles to magic.

Alden and Elara watched in awe, their hearts swelling with a mixture of pride and amazement. Kael stood nearby, his eyes wide with admiration. "Little brother, that's incredible!" he exclaimed. "How did you do that?"

Lucian smiled, his eyes reflecting the blue flame's brilliance. "It's all about understanding the elements and how they interact. By manipulating the mana and incorporating hydrogen from the air, I was able to change the flame's color and increase its intensity."

Kael's brow furrowed as he tried to grasp the explanation. "I don't really get it," he admitted, scratching his head. "How do you know about all that stuff? I thought magic was just... magic."

Lucian chuckled softly, his expression patient. "It's okay, brother. Think of it like cooking. Different ingredients can change the flavor of a dish. With magic, different elements can change the nature of a spell."

Kael nodded slowly, though it was clear he was still trying to wrap his mind around the concept. "I think I get it a little. You mix things together to make something new."

Lucian's heart swelled with a sense of purpose. He knew that his journey had only just begun, but he was determined to push the boundaries of both science and magic. With his family's support and the knowledge contained within the magic book, he felt ready to explore the depths of his potential.

As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, Lucian continued to study and practice relentlessly. He mastered the basics of all elemental spells—water, earth, air, and fire—using his scientific knowledge to enhance and modify each one. His control over mana grew stronger and he had already created his 2nd mana circle and also discovered new ways to combine elements, creating spells that were both innovative and powerful.

Year passed, and Lucian grew older, his talents and knowledge expanding with each passing day. On his seventh birthday, the Nightshade household was filled with the same warmth and joy that had marked his earlier years. Elara prepared a special meal, and Alden gifted Lucian another carved wooden toy, a tradition that had become a cherished part of their family celebrations.

"Happy birthday, Little brother," Kael said, handing him a small, wrapped package. Inside was a quill and ink set, a nod to Lucian's insatiable curiosity and love for learning. Lucian's eyes sparkled with gratitude as he embraced his brother.

"Thank you, brother. I love it," Lucian said, his voice steady and mature beyond his years.

As the family gathered around the table, Alden raised a toast. "To Lucian, who continues to amaze us every day with his brilliance and determination. May your seventh year be filled with even more discoveries and achievements."

Elara smiled, her eyes shining with pride. "You've come so far, dear. We're so proud of you."

Lucian's heart swelled with love for his family. Their unwavering support had been his anchor, their sacrifices the foundation of his growth. "Thank you, Mother, Father. I promise to keep working hard and making you proud."

After the celebration, Lucian retreated to his room, the magic book open before him. He had mastered the basics, but he knew there was still so much to learn. His mind buzzed with questions and theories, each one a stepping stone to deeper understanding. Lucian muttered to himself, "Damn, being poor sucks no matter what world you're in. But hey, at least I've got a loving family this time around. It's like winning the lottery... without the money part."

One evening, as Lucian sat by the hearth with his family, he looked at his parents with a serious expression. "Mother, Father," he began, "I want to learn more. I want to understand the true nature of magic and how it interacts with the world. I need more books, more knowledge."

Alden and Elara exchanged a glance, their faces reflecting a mixture of concern and determination. They knew that Lucian's path would not be easy, but they were committed to supporting him in any way they could.

"We will do everything we can to help you, son," Alden said, his voice firm with resolve. "We will find a way to get you the knowledge you seek."

Elara nodded, her eyes filled with maternal love. "You have a brilliant mind, dear. We believe in you, and we will always be here to support you."

Lucian's heart swelled with gratitude and determination. "Thank you Mom, Dad."