The morning began much like any other. Baker woke just before dawn, feeling the familiar hum of his blessings through his body. He quietly got dressed, careful not to disturb anyone, and made his way to the family library. Teacher Louis was already there, his spectacles perched on the bridge of his nose as he sorted through lesson notes.
"Good morning, Baker," Louis said, glancing up. "Ready for another round of reading and arithmetic?"
"Always, Teacher," Baker replied, opening his book. The lessons seemed easier each day, his mind sharper and faster from his blessings. Arithmetic problems that once took him minutes to solve now crystallized in an instant, and historical timelines aligned perfectly in his memory.
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After lessons, Baker returned to the courtyard where Clarisse awaited. "Ready for some more healing practice?" she asked, emerald eyes twinkling.
He nodded eagerly, following her to the practice area. They spent the morning practicing mana flow, mending minor injuries, and experimenting with subtle healing techniques. Each spell taught him more about the delicate balance of guiding energy without forcing it — a lesson Clarisse emphasized repeatedly.
By midday, Baker realized it was time to pause. He put away his herbs and spell scrolls, deciding to spend the afternoon with his mother and aunt. He found them in the sunroom, sipping tea and quietly observing the garden bathed in warm sunlight.
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"I remember when we used to run through the orchard as children," Ventis said, smiling softly. "Your aunt was always climbing the tallest trees, pretending she could see the world from above."
Clarisse laughed, the sound light and nostalgic. "And your mother would scold me every time I got stuck in a branch!"
Baker sat quietly, listening to the women reminisce. He noticed the faint sparkle of joy in their eyes, and he felt a warmth in his chest — family, together, sharing memories.
"Did… did you ever meet our grandparents?" he asked hesitantly, curiosity pricking at him. "I mean… I've never seen them since I was born."
Ventis's smile softened, but a trace of wistfulness appeared. "They're… very far away, Baker. Nobles, yes, but extremely distant. A month by carriage, with little time to spare unless arranged carefully. And they travel often, leaving very little free time to visit."
Baker tilted his head thoughtfully. "A month… that's far. But… couldn't we…?"
Clarisse's eyes lit up, a spark of mischief and determination in her gaze. "Why not? We should visit them. I've traveled long distances before, and your mother and you will enjoy the journey. We just need to plan it carefully."
Ventis raised an eyebrow. "Two carriages should suffice — one for you and your maid, Clarisse, and one for the rest of us. We should also bring Melody and the captain of the guard for protection. The roads can be unpredictable, especially with magical beasts and highway threats."
Baker's excitement surged. "Two carriages! Really? We'll go see them?"
"Yes," Clarisse said firmly, a smile tugging at her lips. "It's about time you met your grandparents. And this journey will be an experience for all of us — food, healing, magic, and family stories along the way."
They began discussing details — departure times, carriage arrangements, supplies, and the magical wards Clarisse could prepare for protection. Baker's mind raced with anticipation, imagining meeting noble grandparents, tasting new foods along the way, and perhaps even learning new spells and techniques from extended family.
As they plotted, Baker felt a thrill he hadn't experienced before — the kind that came from adventure, learning, and family all intertwined.
This is going to be amazing… he thought.