Chapter 25: A Tutor’s Arrival

Aiden walked alongside Alina, the soft rustle of his boots echoing faintly in the grand halls of the mansion. The sunlight filtered through the high-arched windows, casting delicate patterns on the polished floors. Alina walked a step behind him, her usual cheer muted as she noticed the distant look in Aiden's silver eyes.

He was lost in thought, his mind circling back to the conversation with his system.

"Aiden," the system's voice resonated softly in his mind, "your powers and abilities are vast, but they are tied deeply to your soul. Misusing or overextending them at your current level could cause significant damage to your soul. If the damage becomes too severe, it may result in memory loss, or even death. This is why restraint and growth through the core stages are crucial."

Aiden's brows furrowed as he listened. The weight of his potential was immense, and the warnings made him keenly aware of the delicate balance he would need to maintain.

The system continued, "There is another ability you will unlock as you progress—the Soul Bound ability. This power allows you to form a soul contract with another person, provided your bond with them is strong enough that you would willingly die for each other. When the bond is formed, you will gain the ability to use their powers as your own. However, this will only be accessible when you reach higher stages of the Primordial Genesis Core."

Aiden tilted his head, intrigued. "What's the drawback?" he asked cautiously.

"The process of forming a soul bond is perilous," the system replied. "It requires immense trust and emotional connection, and any instability during the bonding could harm both souls. Furthermore, relying on soul-bound powers will draw from your shared essence. Overuse could lead to soul damage for both individuals, with the same risks—memory loss or death. You must tread carefully when this ability becomes available."

Aiden fell silent, absorbing the implications. The idea of forming such a deep connection with someone was both daunting and comforting. It reminded him of the bond he shared with his mother, though he knew the system referred to something even more profound.

"Understood," he finally said, his tone steady. "I'll be careful."

The system offered a faint acknowledgment before its presence receded, leaving Aiden with a growing sense of responsibility. The path ahead was more dangerous than he'd initially realized, but it also held unimaginable potential.

Alina's gentle tug at his sleeve brought him back to the present. They had reached Lady Elena's room.

"Are you alright, young master?" Alina asked, tilting her head slightly. Her large, curious eyes searched his face.

Aiden nodded, offering a small smile. "I'm fine, Alina. Thank you."

Before Alina could reply, the heavy oak door creaked open, revealing Elena seated at her desk. She looked up, her expression softening at the sight of her grandson.

"Come in, Aiden," she said, gesturing for him to approach. "We have something important to discuss."

Aiden stepped inside, his silver eyes reflecting the flicker of the fireplace. Elena placed her quill down and leaned forward slightly, her presence commanding yet comforting.

Lyria entered the room moments later, her stride confident as always, though there was a glimmer of excitement in her gaze. She exchanged a glance with Elena before kneeling in front of Aiden, her hands resting lightly on his shoulders.

"Aiden," she began, her tone warm, "you're growing quickly, and it's time you started learning the ways of a noble. We've arranged for a tutor to teach you."

Aiden blinked, tilting his head slightly. "A tutor?"

Lyria nodded. "Her name is Lady Grace Lyndor. She's a highly respected noblewoman with decades of experience. She'll teach you how to conduct yourself as a noble, as well as basic knowledge about our world."

Elena added with a soft chuckle, "She's gentle but very thorough. You'll learn much from her."

Aiden nodded slowly, though a spark of curiosity lit his eyes. The idea of learning about the world intrigued him, especially after years spent primarily within the walls of the mansion.

The next morning, Aiden stood by the window in the sitting room, watching as a carriage approached. The horses were sleek and well-groomed, their hooves clattering on the cobblestone driveway. From the carriage stepped a tall woman dressed in elegant yet practical attire. Her blonde-streaked hair was pinned neatly, and her sharp eyes carried a depth of wisdom.

Lady Grace Lyndor entered the mansion with measured grace, her presence commanding respect without arrogance. She greeted Lyria and Elena with a polite bow before turning to Aiden. Her gaze softened as she studied him.

"So, this is young Aiden," she said, her voice calm and melodic. "It's a pleasure to meet you, young master."

Aiden returned her greeting with a respectful bow, his movements careful and deliberate, just as his mother had taught him.

The lesson began in one of the study rooms, where shelves lined with books towered high. Lady Grace sat across from Aiden, her hands folded neatly on the desk.

"Nobility is not just a title," she began, her voice firm but kind. "It is a responsibility. How you speak, act, and even think reflects not only on you but on your family and your kingdom."

She guided Aiden through the basics of etiquette, from posture to formal greetings. Aiden absorbed her teachings with quiet focus, occasionally glancing at his mother, who watched from the doorway with a proud smile.

Lady Grace ended the session by asking Aiden a question. "Tell me, young master, what does it mean to you to be noble?"

Aiden hesitated, then replied carefully, "It means… protecting those who cannot protect themselves and bringing honor to my family."

Lady Grace lips curved into a faint smile. "A good answer. We'll refine it over time."

Later that evening, Aiden found himself walking through the gardens with Lyria. The stars glittered above them, and the cool breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers.

"Did you enjoy your first lesson?" Lyria asked, glancing down at her son.

Aiden nodded. "She's very wise."

Lyria chuckled. "She is. And you'll learn much from her. But remember, being noble isn't just about knowledge. It's about kindness, strength, and resilience."

Aiden looked up at his mother, her words sinking deep into his heart. He clenched his small fists, silently vowing to meet her expectations.

As they walked, Aiden's thoughts drifted back over the past four years. He remembered the day his powers had first awakened, the panic and determination he'd felt as he healed his mother's injury. Since then, his training in the system's dimension had been relentless, each session pushing him closer to mastering his abilities.

The small skirmishes at the kingdom's borders had reminded him of the dangers that lurked beyond their peaceful estate. Though Lyria and Elena had shielded him from the harsh realities of war, he knew enough to understand the importance of strength and preparedness.

The walk ended with Lyria leading Aiden back to his room. As he climbed into bed, his silver hair catching the moonlight, he couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of purpose. Lady Grace lessons, his mother's teachings, and the system's guidance were all preparing him for something greater.

The road ahead was uncertain, but Aiden knew one thing for sure—he would rise to meet whatever challenges came his way.