NOVEL NEXT Chapter 6: Gaining Knowledge
1 1/2 Years had passed since Rui's magical awakening. In that time, he had dedicated himself to rigorous physical and magical training, immersing himself in the pursuit of strength and knowledge. Since that fateful night of discovering how to control mana, Rui has been practicing how to control and manipulate it, internally and externally. It is almost seemed like it has sped up the rate of his own development. However, another aspect of his journey had caught his attention—the warriors who frequented his family's estate.
Each day, Rui watched as the warriors honed their skills in the courtyard, their armor glinting in the sunlight. Their disciplined training and unwavering dedication left a deep impression on him. The clashing of swords, the rhythm of their footwork, and the camaraderie among them fascinated him. It was almost like they were superhuman.
In the solitude of his room, Rui would often practice his magical incantations while also mimicking the knightly movements he had observed. He would swing a small, sword-like stick with determination, envisioning himself clad in armor, fighting for justice and protecting the weak. Quite matching of his physical-age.
It was during one of his scouting expeditions through the estate that Rui stumbled upon a hidden library. Within its ancient shelves, he discovered a book of extraordinary knowledge—a compendium that detailed not only the stages of magical development but also the virtues and codes of the warriors.
As Rui pored over the book's pages, his heart swelled with inspiration, igniting a fire within him, a burning determination to forge his own destiny.
In the shadows of the library, Rui resolved to follow his dual aspirations. He would continue his magical studies, honing his control over the mana. Simultaneously, he would seek out the wisdom and guidance of the warriors training his body and mastering the art of combat.
The past year and a bit had not been in vain. Rui had not only scanned the estate for magical knowledge but also observed the warriors' training. He had absorbed the principles of discipline, honor, and bravery that defined their way of life. It was a valuable foundation upon which he would build his own path—a path that embraced the essence of both magic and knighthood.
As Rui immersed himself in the knowledge within the hidden library, he became so engrossed that he failed to notice the footsteps approaching from behind. Suddenly, his mother's voice broke through his concentration.
"Rui, what are you doing here?" his mother exclaimed, surprise evident in her voice.
Startled, Rui turned to face her, his heart pounding in his chest. He quickly closed the book, attempting to hide his intentions. But his mother's eyes, filled with a mixture of concern and curiosity, gave away her realization that something had captured his attention.
"I... I was just...," Rui stuttered, searching for words to explain his presence in the forbidden library.
His mother's gaze softened, and she placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Rui, my dear, I understand your thirst for knowledge and your desire to explore. But some things are meant to be discovered in due time. Trust that your path will reveal itself when the time is right."
Rui felt a sense of relief wash over him, grateful that his mother seemed to comprehend his yearning for something greater. Although she didn't know the specifics of his thoughts, her understanding offered him solace.
With a nod, Rui closed the book and followed his mother out of the library, leaving behind the mysteries contained within its pages. Yet, the fire within him still burned bright, and the allure of combining magic and knighthood remained a beacon in his mind.
As they walked through the corridors of the estate, Rui couldn't help but steal glances at the courtyard where the warriors train. Their disciplined movements and unwavering focus intensified his longing to embark on a similar journey, To become a warrior-mage who embraced the power of both worlds.
Deep down, Rui knew that his path would require delicate balance and careful navigation. He would need to continue his magical studies in secret, honing his skills and exploring the depths of his abilities. Simultaneously, he would find opportunities to observe the warriors, learn from their discipline, and understand the essence of it.
With each passing day, Rui's determination grew stronger. He would chart his own course, weaving together the threads of magic and warrior to forge a destiny unlike any other. The challenges ahead might be daunting, but he was prepared to face them head-on.
As his mother bid him goodnight and left him to his thoughts, Rui lay in his bed, staring at the ceiling. The plans he had envisioned would remain hidden for now, cherished secrets that fueled his ambitions. He understood that the time for their revelation would come, and until then, he would continue to build his strength, both physically and magically, in preparation for the journey ahead.