Silence reigned inside the grand hall after the Thirteen Mages announced their decision to deem Aiden an exceptional case in the castle’s history.
Any other person his age would have been overwhelmed with joy, perhaps even boasting of such an honor that no one before him had ever received.
As for Aiden…
He remained with his head bowed, pondering something entirely different.
Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward and bowed with profound respect before the Thirteen Mages.
He raised his head calmly and spoke in a steadfast voice, one where modesty blended with confidence: “O, Thirteen Mages…” “I am honored to hold your trust, and to be a disciple to Master Elandor.” He paused for a moment, then continued: “However, I have a request that I hope you will grant.” Every gaze in the room locked onto him.
Even Elandor looked at his disciple in surprise, as though he had not expected him to ask for anything at this moment.
Aiden spoke calmly: “I request that you allow me to work inside the castle.” Silence ensued.
Some of the mages looked at one another in wonder, while Elandor’s brows knit slightly.
Aiden continued without hesitation: “It is true that I have become Master Elandor’s disciple…” “But I am still inexperienced in magic, and I do not wish to live here depending solely on your generosity.” He bowed once more, speaking with a sincerity that came from the depths of his heart: “I possess a pride that forbids me from being a burden to anyone without giving something in return.” A deep tranquility filled the hall.
No one expected to hear such words from a youth his age.
Aiden raised his head and added with a humble smile: “I am proficient in household chores.” “I can cook…” “Knead bread…” “And make pastries as well.” He then said in an earnest tone: “Provide me with food, grant me a small room to live in, and I will strive in my work with all my might, so that I may repay a fraction of your favor.” The Thirteen Mages exchanged glances.
They were not looks of astonishment this time…
But looks of admiration.
One of them offered a faint smile, while another nodded in approval of the youth’s character.
Even Elandor himself, who had only known Aiden for a short time, felt a surge of pride as he gazed upon his new disciple.
Finally, one of the mages spoke in a calm voice: “Aiden…” “This palace is no small house.” He gestured with his hand toward the vast castle extending beyond the walls.
“It is akin to an entire city.” He smiled faintly and added: “The work within it is grueling, continuous every single day, and it will not be as easy as you imagine.” Locking his gaze into Aiden’s eyes, he asked: “Are you truly prepared for that?” Aiden did not hesitate for even a second.
He straightened his posture and answered with genuine confidence: “Yes…
I am.” Silence lingered for a moment…
Then, smiles of satisfaction graced the faces of several mages.
It was not Aiden’s rare talent that structuralized their admiration this time…
But his character.
For talent may be born with a person…
Yet dignity, diligence, and pride…
Are qualities that mana cannot bestow; they are forged only by life.