Chapter 46: Alice's Memory

The castle gardens echoed with the laughter of children. Eight-year-old Alice dashed across the soft grass, clutching a wooden practice sword almost too large for her. Behind her, a small boy with dark hair and wide, curious eyes struggled to keep up, his breath coming in short gasps.

"Wait for me!" Aaron huffed, panting as he stumbled after his older siblings, his tiny legs failing to match their pace.

Ahead of them, Arthur—nearly ten, brimming with confidence—stood with his own wooden sword. He watched Alice's clumsy grip and let out a chuckle. "Alice, if you hold it like that, you'll drop it before you even swing."

Alice pouted, adjusting her grip with determination. "But I want to fight like you! You're going to be the strongest knight one day, right?"

Arthur ruffled her silver hair, his smile unwavering. "Not a knight. A mage. I'll be the strongest mage, and I'll protect you and the kingdom."