Training and Future Plans

The warm morning sun bathed the backyard as Christine carried George outside. The fresh scent of damp soil mixed with the distant aroma of breakfast being prepared. In the open training ground, Marcus stood with Cedric, his stance firm and unwavering as he demonstrated a series of movements.

George observed with keen interest as Cedric, clad in a loose training outfit, mimicked his father's movements. His strikes were precise but lacked the fluidity Marcus displayed. The boy's brow furrowed in frustration as he tried to perfect the technique.

"Remember, Cedric," Marcus said, his deep voice carrying wisdom, "power without control is nothing. A strike too strong can leave you open. A strike too weak does nothing. Balance is everything. Strike with purpose, not desperation."

Cedric took a deep breath, adjusting his stance. He repeated the movement, this time with better control, his father nodding in approval.

Elara sat nearby, her chin resting on her hands, watching with an expression of boredom. "Cedric, you're always training. It's so boring," she whined.

"Then don't watch," Cedric shot back, not taking his eyes off his movements.

George, in his mother's arms, observed everything with curiosity. His father's words about balance resonated with him. In his past life, he had focused solely on brute strength, believing that sheer power would be enough to overcome any obstacle. Perhaps if he had understood balance and control earlier, his fate would have been different.

After a couple of hours, Christine decided it was time to head back inside. As they settled into the living room, Marcus leaned back in his chair with a thoughtful expression.

"Cedric's birthday is in two days," he said, glancing at his son. "And with that, it's time we finalize his academy enrollment."

Christine nodded, a small frown forming on her face. "The tuition is manageable, but the additional costs for equipment, materials, and travel… It's quite the expense."

Cedric looked between his parents, a hint of worry crossing his face. "If it's too much, I can wait another year—"

"Nonsense," Marcus interrupted with a firm shake of his head. "You're ready. The sooner you start, the better your foundation will be."

Christine smiled, placing a reassuring hand on Cedric's shoulder. "We'll handle it, don't worry."

George listened silently, piecing together the situation. So at fourteen, children were sent to academies to properly train in magic and martial arts. This was different from his past life, where people only learned magic when forced to in dire situations.

As the conversation continued, George thought to himself—academy life might be interesting to witness. Too bad he was still a baby.