“Push!”

  “Ahh!”

  “Almost there!”

  “Again!”

  “Ahh!”

  … ragged breaths …

  “It’s a boy! Congratutions!”

  Minutes ter, the baby boy, wrapped in a clean white cloth, was pced in his exhausted mother’s arms. Despite her lingering pain and fatigue, the joy of holding her firstborn was overwhelming, eclipsing all other sensations. Her husband, Albert, sat beside her, gently brushing his hand against her silver hair. He, too, was filled with joy as he gazed at his newborn son.

  Albert instinctively brushed his wife’s hair as they spoke, trying to make her comfortable.

  “He has your silver eyes, Penelope,” Albert said softly.

  “But doesn’t he look just like you?” Penelope replied, smiling.

  “Hehe. I think so. He’ll be as handsome as I am when he grows up.”

  “What name should we give him?” Penelope asked.

  “We talked about this. You’re the one to decide.”

  “I know, you always say you’re terrible at names. Fine then.”

  “I just know whatever name you choose will be beautiful, because you’re the most beautiful woman in the world.”

  Penelope smiled. “Oh, you never change. Okay, how about Riddick?”

  “What? Red dick? Is that…vulgar?”

  “Haha, you’re teasing me. Stop it.”

  “Hehe. Just kidding.”

  “How about Leopold?” Penelope suggested.

  “Oh, I like it. But…”

  “But what? I thought you wanted me to name him?”

  Penelope watched her husband, who seemed lost in thought. After a long moment, her patience wore thin. “Okay, how about Leon?”

  Albert’s face lit up. “Yes, that’s perfect! Leon sounds fierce and strong. Just like his handsome father.”

  As Albert spoke, beaming with pride, Penelope noticed something unusual.

  “Look, haven’t you noticed?”

  “What is it? Is something wrong with our son?” Albert asked, a flicker of concern in his voice.

  “No, of course not. But I’ve noticed his eyes follow whoever’s talking.”

  “I… I don’t understand.” Albert stepped away from the bed, a thoughtful expression on his face. “I still don’t understand…” he continued.

  Penelope interrupted him. “Look! Look! He’s watching you while you talk.”

  Albert hurried back to Penelope’s side and gazed at his son.

  “I think you’re just tired, love,” he said gently, pcing a hand on her shoulder. He kissed her forehead. “You should rest.” He then turned to Cecilia, who stood nearby with the other maids. “Cecilia.”

  “Yes, my lord?”

  “Please take care of your madam. I’ll be in my office.”

  “Understood, my lord.”

  Penelope remained uneasy, convinced something was amiss.

  “Why don’t you try breastfeeding him? Maybe he’s just hungry. Don’t overthink it, you’re exhausted. Rest now, okay? We can talk about it ter if you’re still worried,” Albert said gently.

  From Leon’s perspective:

  What are they talking about?

  So, she’s my mother.

  And he’s my father.

  And she’s Cecilia.

  Who are those other people? They’re wearing simir clothes.

  These were Leon’s thoughts as his parents spoke.

  Normally, a newborn wouldn’t be capable of such complex thought. But Leon’s circumstances were extraordinary. Though he couldn’t understand their nguage, he could see and hear clearly. This was unprecedented. In all of recorded human history, no one had been born like Leon—so mentally advanced.

  Both of Leon’s parents were renowned adventurers. Albert and Penelope, members of the same elite team, were no ordinary adventurers. Albert was an SS-css warrior, while Penelope was an S-css assassin. After completing numerous perilous commissions, they retired from adventuring and entered the service of the King. Recognizing Albert’s invaluable contributions to the kingdom, His Majesty granted him authority and jurisdiction over a territory and its people, elevating him to the rank of Duke. Now, Albert’s duty was to protect his domain from illegal traders, bandits, and other threats. Penelope, meanwhile, became a homemaker.

  A year ter, Leon had already become proficient in the common nguage of the supercontinent, though he wasn’t yet articute in speaking it. Remarkably, at the age of one, Leon could walk independently, even managing a few meters before needing to rest. This newfound mobility allowed him to explore the castle freely, albeit under the watchful eyes of a maid or his mother.

  He regurly visited their vast library, attempting to decipher the written word. This habit further convinced Penelope that her son was extraordinary, and she wholeheartedly encouraged his visits, often reading him bedtime stories.

  “Aren’t you even more handsome than your father? Why? Because you have the most beautiful mother on Pangaea,” Penelope boasted to her son, lifting him high above her head. “You’re growing so fast!” she excimed, still holding him aloft. “Look how high you are! Isn’t it wonderful?”

  “You called, Madam?” a maid inquired.

  “I’ve told you, just call me Penelope. Anyway, is Leon’s bath ready?”

  “Yes, it is.”

  Penelope, now holding Leon in her arms, said, “We’re going to take a bath, my baby boy.”

  Leon, though unable to speak clearly, simply watched his mother with curious eyes. He longed for her to teach him to read, a desire that was constantly pushed aside. Unable to communicate his wishes, his routine after breakfast or lunch—which typically involved nursing at his mother’s breast—was to visit the library and try to decipher the written word. He was usually accompanied by his mother or a designated maid. His father, ever occupied with his ducal duties, was rarely seen in the castle. When he was home, he was invariably busy—commanding his guards, receiving guests, or working in his office.

  Five years ter, Leon was six years old. He spoke eloquently and was a proficient reader. Most astonishing, however, was his physical development. He stood five feet seven inches tall (170 cm), possessing the physique of an adolescent, neither muscur nor overweight.

  In his parents’ bedroom, Penelope and Albert shared a passionate kiss. As Albert began to remove Penelope’s sleepwear, his hand instinctively went to her bosom. However, the familiar flow of milk was a growing concern. While he’d previously dismissed it, now that Leon was six, it troubled him. The issue became the topic of conversation after their lovemaking.

  “Would you like to talk about it?” Albert asked gently.

  “Our son still nurses. How can I stop him?” Penelope replied, worry in her voice.

  “I understand. But he’s six years old, and he looks like a young adult. Have you spoken to him about it?”

  “I’ve tried, love. But whenever he’s near me, he instinctively reaches for my bosom. My body continues to produce milk.”

  Albert sighed. “Perhaps we spoiled him?”

  “I believe our son is…different. Remember when I told you how curiously he stared at us when he was born?” Penelope reminded him.

  “Yes, I do. But his rapid growth?”

  “I know. But I think he’s naturally inquisitive. You’ve seen it yourself.”

  Albert nodded. “He learned to read and write at one. He’s so advanced, so articute, that he seems older than his years.”

  “He does. To an outsider, he hardly seems six. But he’s our son. We know him best. And thank goodness for Alice. She’s been a blessing,” Penelope said. “She’s been eager to tutor him, and I’m gd I agreed. She’s certainly literate enough. I suspect he’s a genius.”

  “He’s definitely precocious. But speaking of Alice, she hasn’t changed a bit. We’ll see how effective her teaching is,” Albert remarked.

  “Speaking of teaching, isn’t it time for him to have a proper tutor?” Penelope asked.

  “I think so. It’s time he learned about the world and how it works,” Albert replied.

  “I agree. It’s for the best,” Penelope said.

  “Indeed, my darling,” Albert murmured, kissing her passionately.

  “Would you like some of my milk?” Penelope teased, a pyful glint in her eyes.

  Albert chuckled. “No, thank you.”

  “Oh, come on,” she pyfully persisted.

  One month ter.

  A carriage arrived at the gate. A slender woman, five feet seven inches tall, emerged. Her iridescent blue hair shimmered like sapphire in the sunlight, contrasting with her fair skin, which seemed to glow with an inner light. Pointed ears accentuated her delicate features, and her amethyst eyes sparkled with intelligence and mischief. She paused, inhaling deeply, mesmerized by the castle before her.

  As the gate swung open, she walked through, her gaze sweeping from side to side. Towering silver spires pierced the clouds, while the castle walls, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant mosaics, shimmered like polished obsidian. Expansive green spaces, interspersed with training grounds and lush gardens overflowing with exotic blooms and fragrant herbs, created a breathtaking tableau. The air was alive with the sweet scent of blossoms and the distant song of E-rank monster helkonosts, weaving a spell of enchantment.

  “Greetings, Duke Albert Ryler, and Madam Penelope Ryler,” Erica Sylter said, bowing her head. “I’m Erica Sylter, a B-rank vanguard mage. I saw your commission at the Adventurers’ Guild and was interested.”

  “Thank you for taking the assignment,” Penelope replied. “Please, come, follow us.

  Inside the guest room.

  She gestured towards Leon. “This is our son, Leon. He’s six.”

  Erica gnced at them, a flicker of surprise in her eyes.

  “I know,” Penelope said, anticipating her unspoken question. “He really is only six. Leon, why don’t you say hello?”

  “Hello. My name is Leon. I look forward to learning from you,” Leon said politely.

  “Wow! You’re quite…remarkable,” Erica stammered, a slight blush rising on her cheeks. “I apologize if my reaction seemed impolite.”

  “Not at all,” Penelope reassured her.

  “You speak so well for your age,” Erica commented. “I heard you enjoy reading.”

  “Yes, I do. Thank you,” Leon replied.

  “We’d like you to teach Leon the fundamentals of this world and how it functions,” Penelope expined.

  “It’s an honor to serve the Ryler family. I’ll do my best,” Erica said.

  “Thank you,” Penelope said. “Albert, anything to add?”

  “No, I think you’ve covered everything,” Albert replied.

  “You can start tomorrow,” Penelope said to Erica. “For tonight, please settle into your room. A maid will show you. And don’t hesitate to ask the staff if you need anything at all.”

  The maids escorted her to her room. Stepping inside, she was struck by its spaciousness and elegance. Intricate tapestries adorned the walls, and a vast collection of books, ancient and modern, lined the shelves, their spines gleaming softly.

  She ran her hand across the king-sized bed, appreciating its luxurious feel. A small writing table and a rune-powered mp stood in one corner. Beside the bed, a rge arched window offered a breathtaking view of the castle grounds and the Yeshamine forest beyond.

  Gazing out, she inhaled the crisp air, rich with the scent of pine and damp earth. Silver-horned deer, horned rabbits and boars, grazed peacefully below. The Helkonost renowned of its melodious calls fills the air.

  The next day.

  A few knocks echoed on the door. After a few more unanswered knocks, Leon took hold of the doorknob and, to his surprise, found it was not locked. He walked towards the bed and sat down. Gently, he pushed her shoulder, trying to wake her, but to no avail. But the sight of her nubile body under her thin white sleepwear dress compelled him to y his hands on her breast and slowly csp them around it.

  Leon tried again to wake her, pushing her shoulder. “Hey, wake up. Wake up,” he called, but once again, he failed. Erica groaned, and his attention turned back to her bosom, visible through the thin fabric of her sleepwear. His heart raced as he gently pinched her nipples and pyed with them, which unconsciously tickled her.

  “Wake up! It’s almost time!” Leon called out.

  Erica jolted awake, sitting up quickly. “What time is it?” she asked nervously.

  “Time for our training,” he replied.

  “Oh, I’m so sorry. I overslept,” she said, a slight blush rising on her cheeks. I was having the most wonderful dream… with someone I care about deeply. We were having such a good time, and then I woke up, she thought, a hint of disappointment lingering.

  “Dream time’s over,” Leon said. “Get up.”

  “Did you… hear my thoughts?” Erica asked, surprised.

  “No,” he said. “I heard you groan.”

  “Oh,” she said, her blush deepening.

  Leon paused at the door. “I’ll wait outside,” he said, gncing back at her.

  “Right, just give me a minute,” Erica replied quickly, already heading towards the bathing area.

  “The maid said breakfast is ready,” Leon added.

  “Got it,” she said, hurrying to prepare for the day.

  After breakfast, Leon and Erica went to the garden. She handed him a book titled Pangaea Ultima: System Basics. Leon studied the cover intently.

  “Have you read it before?” Erica asked.

  “No,” he replied.

  “This book expins how the System works.”

  “What system?”

  “I’ll teach you everything. Come here.”

  Leon followed Erica to a small, round cottage in the center of the garden.

  “First, rex,” she instructed, pcing a hand on his back. “Inhale deeply, and exhale. Now, I’m going to channel my mana into you. Don’t resist. Just let it flow.”

  “Ugh! My head…it’s throbbing,” Leon excimed.

  “It’s temporary,” Erica reassured him. “Just rex and let the mana flow.”

  After a moment, Erica’s mana awakened Leon’s own.

  “How do you feel?” she asked.

  “I saw a giant orb…and I feel lighter. I can see more clearly,” Leon replied.

  “Good. That’s the source of your mana. Now, close your eyes, focus your mind and body, and say ‘System.’”

  “System,” Leon repeated. A screen materialized before him, startling him.

  “What is this?” he asked.

  Name: Leon Ryler

  Race: Human

  Age: 6

  Rank: Not yet acquired

  Attributes: Light, Dark, Fire

  Inherent Skills: Natural Curious, Attributes Manipution, Mana Manipution.

  “That’s your status dispy. And by the way,” Erica continued, “forming a team requires at least five members. A banced team typically includes a tank—someone to draw enemy aggression and take damage; a damage dealer, like a warrior or assassin; mages, who provide elemental damage and support; an archer, a long-range damage dealer; and, crucially, a healer, who not only heals but also buffs the team and counters curses.”

  “So, what are your attributes?” Erica asked.

  “It says light, dark, and fire. Didn’t you see it?”

  “I could have, but I prefer not to intrude unless you give me permission.”

  “Okay, I understand. What about you? What are your attributes?”

  “I have light, dark, and lightning. That makes me a good match for you as a teacher.”

  “I also have inherent skills. What do you think about those?”

  “Inherent skills are invaluable. They’re gifts from your parents, but you’re under no obligation to reveal them to anyone, not even your parents. Of course, you can tell me if you’d like.”

  “I’ll show you,” Leon said.

  Name: Leon Ryler

  Race: Human

  Age: 6

  Rank: Not yet acquired

  Attributes: Light, Dark, Fire

  Inherent Skills: Natural Curious, Attributes Manipution, Mana Manipution.

  “This is…impossible,” Erica breathed, her eyes wide. “I’ve never seen anyone with three inherent skills. People usually inherit only one.”

  “These skills…they come from our parents?” Leon asked.

  “Yes, ultimately from our ancestors,” Erica confirmed. “There are ancient stories that the gods bestowed them upon us.”

  “The gods?” Leon mused, a thoughtful expression on his face.

  “Well, that’s just an old legend. No one knows for sure. But the point is, typically only one skill is passed down—from your parents, grandparents, or someone else in your lineage. Inheriting three…it’s unheard of. I strongly advise you not to reveal this to anyone. Skills are considered sacred. Tradition dictates that they shouldn’t be shared, even with family, unless the individual chooses to disclose them.”

  “So, this is something I should keep secret,” Leon thought. “But what if I did tell everyone?” he asked aloud.

  “With skills like these, the entire supercontinent would take notice. The King of the Human Kingdom might even summon you to work under the Kingdom. You’d lose your freedom,” Erica expined.

  “Absolutely not,” Leon decred. “My parents were adventurers. I want to be a powerful adventurer like them.”

  “Which is exactly why I recommend discretion.”

  “By the way,” Leon continued, “Alice mentioned you’re from the Elven Kingdom. What brings you here?”

  “I travel because I crave freedom,” Erica replied proudly. “I’m an adventurer myself.”

  “Is that…connected to your pointed ears?” Leon asked.

  “Haha, you’re teasing me,” Erica chuckled. “Well, do you like them?”

  “No,” Leon said.

  “Huh?” Erica touched her ears self-consciously.

  “I mean…not just your ears. Everything about you is…perfect.”

  Erica’s cheeks flushed crimson. “You’re quite the charmer,” she said, flustered.

  “You’re not a girl,” Leon continued. “You’re a dy.”

  “Hehe. Enough,” Erica said, trying to regain her composure.

  “Can I…touch your ear?” Leon asked.

  “Eh? Sure, why not?” Erica replied, a hint of amusement in her voice.

  Erica sat down beside Leon. He extended his arm toward her ear, but his hand inadvertently fell on her voluptuous chest.

  Taken aback, Erica scolded Leon. “Hey, not cool. It’s inappropriate to touch a maiden’s private parts.”

  It was the first time Leon had ever been scolded—just for touching someone inappropriately. He didn’t know how to react or how he felt; it was a strange sensation inside him. But he knew he needed to say something.

  “I’m so sorry. My hand just moved on its own.”

  Seeing how remorseful Leon was, Erica felt a pang of pity for him.

  “It’s okay. I forgive you. But don’t ever do that again, okay?”

  Leon remained silent.

  “Hey,” Erica said gently, “talk to me. We’re okay now.”

  “I’m sorry,” Leon mumbled. “It’s just…I’ve never been told off like that before. I didn’t know what to say.”

  “I understand,” Erica said. “But you said your hand moved on its own? Is this…a habit?”

  Leon hesitated before answering. “Yes.”

  “How long have you been doing this?”

  “Since I was little.”

  “I see. So, do you do this to everyone?”

  “No. Only to Mother…and my favorite maid.”

  “Do your parents know you do this to others?”

  “I…I don’t know. I’ve never told them.”

  “Hmm. Would you like me to talk to them about it?”

  “No, please. Keep it a secret,” Leon pleaded.

  Erica thought for a moment. “Okay,” she said finally. “I won’t tell your parents. But you have to promise me…you won’t do it again. Ever.”

  Leon remained silent, his expression unreadable. Erica looked at Leon, whose mouth shut, unable to give her the promise she sought.

  “Let me tell you a story,” she began. “I was at the Adventurers’ Guild, having breakfast, when a huge, burly man—probably a tank—came in. He scanned the room, ordered a beer, and then approached a table occupied by a hooded figure. ‘May I join you?’ he asked. She didn’t respond. I tried to see her face, but the deep shadows of her hood obscured it. Only her silver eyes, glowing faintly within the darkness, and a few strands of silver hair escaping the hood, were visible. The man, presuming her silence was consent, said, ‘I’ll take that as a yes,’ and then called out to a waitress. He continued to stare at the hooded figure, who remained engrossed in her own activities. Finally, growing impatient, he pced a hand on each of her shoulders. That’s when she spoke. ‘You’ve touched me twice without my permission,’ she said, her voice firm and cold. ‘Touch me again, and you’ll regret it for the rest of your life.’ Drunk on arrogance, the man removed his hands from her shoulders…and then touched her breast. In an instant, she vanished. The man, momentarily bewildered, suddenly cried out in agony. Blood sprayed from his now-amputated arms. We searched, but no one could find the hooded figure, nor the severed limbs.”

  “Weren’t there guards?” Leon asked, a hint of shock in his voice.

  “Guards only respond when summoned,” Erica replied. “Besides, no one cared. He brought it on himself.”

  Leon was silent, deep in thought.

  “Don’t dwell on it,” Erica said. “It’s a common occurrence. These things happen.”

  “Really?” Leon asked, surprised.

  “Absolutely. In my hundred years, I’ve seen far worse. So, I advise you: control yourself if you value your life.”

  “Let’s take a break,” Erica suggested, changing the subject. “I’ll tell you about guilds, adventurer ranks, and dungeons.”