Cedric's Farewell

As the first rays of sunlight streamed through the window, George stirred in his crib. His eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the soft morning light. He exhaled slowly, feeling the gentle hum of mana coursing through his body. Without hesitation, he closed his eyes once more, settling into his cultivation.

For an hour, he focused, drawing in mana and refining it within himself. His body felt lighter, his senses sharper. He was close—so close to the next realm. He could feel the barrier standing before him, teasing him with its presence. But no matter how much he meditated, it refused to break just yet.

A few minutes later, he heard movement from beyond his crib. Christine and Marcus were stirring awake, their voices hushed as they began their morning routine. Soon, the door creaked open, and Christine stepped in, smiling softly at her youngest son.

"Good morning, little one," she whispered, lifting him gently into her arms. George blinked up at her, pretending to be the innocent baby she expected him to be.

Marcus entered shortly after, stretching his arms. "Cedric should be up by now. He has a long day ahead."

Christine nodded. "Let's get him ready."

With George nestled in her arms, the family made their way downstairs. Cedric was already packing his belongings, carefully folding his clothes and securing his training equipment. He was dressed in a travel cloak, his sword resting beside his bag.

Elana sat nearby, watching her older brother with wide eyes. "Do you really have to go, Cedric?" she asked, pouting slightly.

Cedric chuckled, ruffling her hair. "I have to, Elana. It's the academy! I'll learn how to become stronger, and when I visit, I'll show you all the cool things I've learned."

Elana huffed but nodded reluctantly. "Fine. But you better write to us!"

Marcus clapped a firm hand on Cedric's shoulder. "You've trained hard for this. Do your best, son. Make us proud."

Christine hugged Cedric tightly, her expression torn between pride and motherly worry. "Stay safe. Keep your head down when necessary, and don't pick fights."

Cedric grinned. "Me? Pick fights? Never."

Christine sighed, shaking her head with a knowing smile. "Just be careful."

George, still cradled in his mother's arms, lifted his small hand and waved at Cedric. Cedric blinked before laughing. "Even George is seeing me off, huh?" He reached out and gently patted George's head. "Don't cause too much trouble, okay?"

With final goodbyes exchanged, Cedric hoisted his bag over his shoulder and stepped outside, where a carriage awaited him. The horses neighed softly as the driver nodded in greeting.

As Cedric climbed in, he leaned out one last time, giving his family a confident smile. "See you all soon!"

The carriage lurched forward, and they watched as it disappeared down the path, carrying Cedric toward his future at the academy.

Elana sniffled, quickly wiping her eyes. Christine let out a quiet sigh, her arms tightening around George. Marcus stood beside her, watching until the carriage was out of sight.