Alex had spent the morning continuing his cultivation, absorbing mana, strengthening his nine pillars with painstaking focus. His hands trembled slightly, fingers quivering as he channeled energy, sweat trickling down his forehead, but he remained immersed, fully committed to the process. Every breath, every heartbeat was synchronized with the pulse of mana around him. By midday, he felt a surge of energy as his pillars solidified further, each glowing faintly with restored strength.
Once satisfied, he turned his attention to preparing for the tea party he was hosting for young nobles of Hensville Kingdom. Today, he would present himself as both a host and a figure of confidence. He chose an outfit that reflected his unique style—a pure white dress, simple yet elegant, paired with boots and subtle accessories. It was less extravagant than the outfit he wore to Queen Amelia's birthday party but still showcased his refined taste and status.
As the young guests arrived—children from various dukedoms, noble houses under dukedoms, and wealthy merchant families—Alex greeted each of them with poise. Notably absent were any royal family members; Alex had not yet formed connections with them, but today's gathering would help him strengthen his standing among his peers.
Among the attendees was the illegitimate son of Duke Skyrim, a boy who carried himself with quiet dignity despite his difficult upbringing. Some young nobles, seeking amusement, began teasing him, whispering and mocking him openly. Many expected Alex to intervene as he had during the Queen's birthday celebration.
Alex remained silent, observing the boy and the situation. The boy, frustrated and expecting help, finally reacted. In a surge of emotion, he threw a cup, letting his anger show. The room tensed; it seemed a fight might erupt. But Alex stepped forward, speaking a few calm yet commanding words. His voice carried authority that made everyone pause. The boy froze, and the would-be aggressors backed down.
"Not all battles are won with fists or swords," Alex said softly, yet firmly. "Some are fought with words, carefully chosen and delivered at the right moment."
The boy, though still angry, felt the lesson sink in. He realized that there were ways to defend oneself without unnecessary violence—and that some battles required patience, strategy, and discretion.
By the end of the tea party, most guests had departed, leaving the boy lingering behind. He finally approached Alex, frustration and curiosity mingling in his expression.
"Why didn't you step in like before?" he asked boldly.
Alex regarded him thoughtfully. "Because not every fight should be fought for you. You must learn to stand for yourself. If you continue relying only on anger and strength, you will not survive in the world of nobles."
The boy frowned, processing Alex's words. Alex added gently, "Come to my courtyard tomorrow. I will show you how to improve your interactions, how to speak, and how to carry yourself among your peers. Some lessons are more important than winning every battle."
The boy's pride wrestled with his curiosity, but something in Alex's calm authority planted the seed of guidance. The first step toward trust and friendship had begun.
Alex watched him leave with quiet satisfaction. Today was not just a test of social skill—it was a small planting of strategy, patience, and the shaping of potential allies for the challenges that lay ahead.
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Author's Note:
In this chapter, we explore Alex's growth not just in mana, but in influence and strategy. He subtly teaches a lesson in self-control and social skill, guiding others without taking unnecessary action.
The seeds of alliances are sown here, and the young nobles—including the boy from Duke Skyrim—will have choices to make in the future. Alex's journey is about power, yes, but also about understanding people, strategy, and the careful cultivation of friendships.
Thank you for reading! Remember to vote, comment, and follow if you enjoy Alex's journey. Your support motivates me to continue weaving these adventures. 🥰