chapter 6 : Mother

As Lucas walked toward the dining hall, his mind raced with thoughts of how to convince his mother to let him start training.

'I have to persuade her today. I can't keep living like this, knowing how dangerous this world truly is.'he thought, his brows furrowing deeply.

As he considered whether acting like the adorable five-year-old he was might sway her, his train of thought was interrupted by Annie's voice.

"Young master, we've arrived."

Lucas nodded and stepped through the massive double doors, their center adorned with the symbol of the Ignis—a fiery insignia that pulsed as if it were truly ablaze.

'Everything here is fire.'Lucas mused absentmindedly. 'Even the air in this mansion feels warmer than normal.'

I guess it's pretty logical for a family known as the The Children Of Fire.

The dining hall was as grand as expected, massive in scale, with deep crimson walls that bordered on black in certain areas. The decor was lavish yet intimidating, reflecting the sheer power of the Crimson Mansion. But what stood out the most—at least to Lucas—was the gigantic portrait of himself hanging on the right wall.

Seriously? He sighed, shaking his head for what had to be the hundredth time at the sight of that utterly unnecessary painting.

'Why me? Why is there a huge portrait of me, but none of Father?' he wondered, though he already knew there was no point in asking. His mother was simply that kind of person.

Pushing aside his frustration, Lucas took his seat at the long dining table and greeted his mother with as much composure as he could muster.

"Hello, Mother."

Annie, as always, stood quietly behind him, giving a respectful bow to the Lady of Crimson.

Ester smiled warmly. "My little fire, don't you want to give your mother a hug and a kiss first?" she teased, a playful glint in her eyes.

Lucas groaned. "Mother, no, please… I have something important to discuss today." He tried to put on a serious face, but with his round cheeks and youthful features, the effect was… debatable.

Ester tilted her head slightly, watching her son with amusement. Lucas had always been far too intelligent for his age, sharp and observant beyond reason.

He never cried or complained about anything. Well—except when it came to training or wanting to leave the estate. Then, he was like a raging wildfire, relentless and unyielding. The only way to pacify him was with a Fire Essence Potion.

Just as she thought about offering one today, Lucas interrupted her.

"I won't be bribed with Fire Essence today, Mother. Just so you know."

Ester choked. "Cough—cough—"

Did he just read my mind?!

Recovering, she waved her hand elegantly. "Alright, my dear. Tell me what you want. I will do my best to please you."

Lucas took a deep breath, closing his eyes for a moment. 'Okay. Now or never.'

When he opened them again, his fiery red irises glowed with determination. Even his hair flickered slightly, as if reacting to his emotions.

"I want to start training, Mother. Now."

Before she could protest, he pressed on.

"I just finished reading a book about this world. It's dangerous. Too dangerous for me to sit here doing nothing when I can be preparing."

"I want to be strong. Not just for myself, but for you and Father. I don't want to let you down."

"I know you think I'm being hasty because I'm only five, but enemies don't care about that. You, of all people—the Empress of Flames—should understand."

Lucas stopped, watching his mother carefully. Did I just say too much for a five-year-old?

But damn it, he had to push forward. He needed to start training for his survival, to uncover the mystery of that elusive feeling and without her approval, it would be impossible with all the eyes constantly watching him.

Ester, meanwhile, studied her son in silence. Too smart. Too mature.

Sometimes, she wondered how his mind worked.

If she knew about the concept of reincarnation, she might have had suspicions… but fortunately for Lucas, that thought never crossed her mind.

She sighed inwardly. Lucas wasn't wrong. This world was far more brutal than what he could have read in a book.

And yet… she had wanted to give him a peaceful childhood, just for a little longer. Because once he awakened, everything would change. He would inherit the weight of the Ignis House, one of the Four Great Dukes of Sylvaris. A burden that could crush even the strongest men.

But looking at him now—at his unwavering expression, at his burning determination—Ester knew there was no stopping him.

Sigh…

"Alright, dear. You can start training."

There was clear reluctance in her voice, but she said it.

And that was all Lucas needed.

"YAY!!"

Without thinking, he leaped from his chair and ran straight into her arms, hugging her tightly.

Ester chuckled and pulled him into an even tighter embrace, practically smothering him in her warmth.

"Mom—it's—too—tight—I'm—suffocating—!" Lucas wheezed, tapping her arm like a trapped prisoner.

"Oh… oops." Ester let go with a playful chuckle.

Lucas immediately bolted back to his seat, fixing his clothes with as much dignity as a five-year-old could muster.

Annie, watching quietly from the side, couldn't help but smile. 'Young Master is truly adorable…'

Cough cough…

"Well then, thank you, Mother! I have things to prepare—I'm going now!"

And with that, Lucas jumped off his chair and sprinted out of the hall.

"Ah—wait! You didn't eat anything—!" Ester called after him, but he was already gone.

She sighed again.

And then she froze.

"…Wait."

Her eyes widened in realization.

"I didn't even have time to tell him… his father is coming home tomorrow."

After such a long time guarding the borders, the Duke of Ashes was finally returning.

And Lucas had no idea what was waiting for him.

— End of Chapter.

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