The next day in morning light poured through the tall windows of the mansion, casting soft beams of sunlight on the wooden floors. Aiden sat at the large oak dining table, his small hands wrapped around a goblet of juice. The aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering stew filled the air, but today, the mansion felt different. It wasn't filled with the usual tense atmosphere of war preparations or training sessions. Today, there was laughter, warmth, and peace—a rarity in these uncertain times.
Lyria, Aiden's mother, sat beside him, her strong but gentle gaze softening as she watched him. There was something comforting about the familiar clinking of utensils and the casual chatter that echoed through the room. It was a rare moment of respite, and she intended to savor it.
"I heard from the messenger that the harvest in the southern fields has been excellent," Elena, Aiden's grandmother, remarked as she sipped her tea. "The crops are thriving this year. Perhaps we can take a short trip down there soon, just to enjoy the change of scenery."
Lyria smiled, nodding in agreement. "That sounds wonderful, Mother. Aiden could use a break from all the lessons and training."
Aiden raised an eyebrow. "I don't mind the lessons, Mother. In fact, I look forward to them." His voice was calm, yet his eyes sparkled with curiosity. He was already learning more than most children his age, and he found the topics fascinating, especially the discussions with Lady Grace about the academy and the various kingdoms.
"Of course, you would," Lyria chuckled softly, her gaze affectionate. "But a little break never hurt anyone, right?"
Elena chuckled too, leaning back in her chair. "Lyria, your son has a mind of his own, doesn't he? Already more like you than I expected."
Aiden, ever mature for his age, grinned slyly. "I take after both of you, Grandma." His gaze shifted to his mother. "And I think the lessons are important, but I'd like to visit the capital soon. Meet Uncle Keiran's family… and the academy. I want to see how it's all run, and how I can begin my education."
Lyria's eyes softened with both pride and concern. "You're always so eager to learn, Aiden. But you must remember that you're still young. There's no rush."
"But Mother," Aiden said, his tone thoughtful, "I can learn faster if I understand the world around me. And I want to see what Uncle Keiran's kingdom is like. I've heard so much about the capital."
The conversation shifted, and they talked about the days ahead, the simple joys of life, and how Aiden was growing up so quickly. But even in these moments of light-hearted conversation, Lyria could not ignore the underlying tension that still hung in the air, the subtle reminders of the challenges ahead. Still, she allowed herself a rare moment of joy as she watched Aiden smile, his curiosity about the world as strong as ever.
As the meal concluded, Aiden and his family spent the rest of the morning in a relaxed, peaceful manner. Lyria caught up with Elena on old family matters, while Aiden, filled with energy, played with some of the household's young servants. For a brief moment, the looming dangers seemed far away, and the warmth of family, the bonds that held them together, felt invincible.