Chapter 10: Let me show you something
The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains as Solomon finished his breakfast, preparing to leave for his hometown. Determined to greet Ashan before his departure, Solomon walked to Ashan's room.
Inside, Ashan sat comfortably, engrossed in a thick tome. His sharp senses alerted him to Solomon's presence before the knock even came.
It's Solomon. I suppose he's here to discuss something important before leaving.
"Ashan, it's Solomon. May I come in?"
Ashan closed his book and stood up, brushing his clothes to tidy himself.
"Yes, Sir Solomon. Come in."
"Good morning," Solomon greeted warmly as he stepped inside.
"Yes, good morning," Ashan replied with a smile. "I sense that you have something to discuss."
Solomon nodded, taking the offered seat across the table. His gaze roamed the pristine room—the neatly arranged bookshelves, the meticulously made bed, and the calming atmosphere.
"It seems you prefer everything to be in perfect order. Not even the king's private office feels as charming and organized as this."
Ashan chuckled.
"I enjoy living in a clean space; it keeps my mind at peace. But let's get to the point. What's on your mind?"
Solomon sighed, his eyes briefly closing.
"I agreed to take you as my disciple. But you're still a child, only seven years old, despite your mature demeanor. I assume you don't want to start immediately. So, at what age do you think you'd be ready?"
Ashan nodded thoughtfully.
"You're correct. I want to experience my childhood fully and bring happiness to my parents. They deserve joyful memories, and I see it as my duty as their son. I'll leave the decision to you. When do you think I should begin?"
Solomon stroked his white beard in contemplation.
"If you're open to it, I have a suggestion you might find appealing."
"Interesting. Let's hear it."
"Yesterday, your father mentioned teaching you swordsmanship. He said you're advancing quickly and will soon be ready to learn your family's secret aura circle pathway."
"Is that so? Well, I don't need it," Ashan said nonchalantly.
Solomon's brow furrowed.
"Why not? To become a great swordsman, an aura circle is essential. Even the best sword technique is useless without aura."
Ashan smiled faintly.
"No, no. I didn't mean it like that. I don't need it because I already have my own aura circle."
Solomon blinked in surprise.
"You have one? But I can't sense any abnormal internal aura from you."
"Wait a moment."
With a snap of his fingers, Ashan cast a spell.
[Sealing Magic: Aura Blocker]
A rainbow-colored barrier enveloped the room.
Solomon's eyes widened.
"An aura blocker? Why use such a spell?"
Ashan's smile deepened.
"To show you something."
He removed the seal suppressing his aura, and a wave of liquid-like energy, vibrant with red, yellow, and orange hues, surged through the room. Even though Solomon couldn't see the aura colors, he felt their presence vividly, like an undeniable force surrounding him.
Solomon's jaw dropped.
"This… this is the aura of a high-level Swordmaster! How is this even possible? And how can your body handle such power?"
Ashan nodded.
"Yes, it's the aura of a high Swordmaster. I created this technique myself, refining it to suit my body perfectly."
"As expected from you," Solomon said, still in awe. "You're truly extraordinary."
"You should be impressed," Ashan teased. "Honestly, I only recently reached this level."
"That simplifies matters. Have you heard of the All-Nation Academy? It's a place where students from across the world come to learn."
Ashan's eyes widened in surprise.
"An academy like that exists? When was it established? After my death?"
"Yes," Solomon confirmed. "In the 95th century. It's jointly maintained by the Archmage Council, the Dragoria Royal Family, and the Shenzurai leaders."
Ashan was visibly impressed.
"It must have a rich history. Is it open to everyone?"
"Not quite," Solomon explained. "The academy has strict admission rules. Students must be either exceptionally talented, wealthy, or have a recommendation from someone of high standing."
Ashan raised an eyebrow.
"And this academy concerns me because…?"
"You'll attend it as my disciple," Solomon stated.
"No thanks. I'm not interested," Ashan replied flatly.
"B-But why? It's such an honor! Is it the idea of studying alongside children that bothers you?"
"Not at all," Ashan said, his tone turning somber. "I have my own reasons."
Solomon sighed.
"Well, even if you don't attend as my disciple, your parents will likely insist. Your father's status as the kingdom's third lord and his wealth will ensure your entry."
Ashan sighed deeply.
"Fine. If it's inevitable, I'll attend as your disciple. That's a more tolerable option."
"Good decision," Solomon said, smiling. "Now, there's one more issue. I'd like us to have a way to communicate privately."
"That's a good idea. What's the challenge?"
"Mages can use telepathy through mana, but it's limited to about a mile. I can't think of a solution beyond that."
Ashan smiled mischievously.
"Solomon, do you remember my promise to guide you as your mentor?"
"Yes, of course."
"Then come with me. It's time for your first lesson."