Why… Why?
It had been eleven months since Awakening. Why had he still not received a blessing?
Arthur slumped over his knees as he sat on a tree stump, his mouth hanging open, allowing the life to spill from it.
I won't be able to cast any spell beyond the 14th Quotient. Only Beginner tier spells.
There's no way the Magic Academy will accept me if I don't have a blessing by the examination date!
How was Cedric able to get a blessing on the day he awakened?
A hand placed itself on his shoulder.
Mom?
"How are you feeling today?"
He paused, meeting her eyes.
"I'm doing great! Do you need me to help out with anything?"
His eyes narrowed gently; his pupils gleamed, reflecting the warm light of the setting sun behind her, transferring that spark into all life that looked upon him. His mouth curved with ease, corners lifting symmetrically along with his bright cheeks.
How genuine. That boy must be truly happy. Anyone else would think that. But not her. She knew her son.
"Ow!" he screamed as his ear was pulled.
"That's good, but I thought I taught you better than to lie to me."
She let go, and her paper-smile flattened.
"Arthur, you're brave and smart. Never feel like you are less than someone else because of something you can't control. As long as you try your best, no one in the world can shame you for failing."
His dull eyes glinted again.
Am I going to watch my dreams end? No. I'm going to become the strongest!
He brought her close and held her tightly.
Thank you, Mom. I promise I'll repay you for all that you've done.
You won't have to work as an adventurer anymore. A castle, servants, anything you want—I'll buy it all.
He held his head high, unable to keep himself from grinning as he ran off with a sword.