Zephyr POV
The early morning sun filtered through the tall windows of the Eldrath mansion, casting soft light across the nursery. I perched silently on the windowsill, my human form carefully maintained to avoid alarming the young child below.
Blue stirred in his crib, his tiny fists curling and uncurling as he yawned, revealing just a hint of determination that reminded me so much of Kael when he was that age.
My tail flicked idly as I watched him, alert for even the slightest threat. REF was a city full of wonders, yes—but also dangers, magical and mundane alike. And Blue, heir of Aelric and Sera, had already awakened the Tempest System and received the blessing of the God of Chaos. That was no ordinary child.
---
Morning Routine
I leapt lightly to the floor, crouching near the crib. "Good morning, little one," I murmured, my voice soft, careful not to startle him.
Blue gurgled in response, reaching for the mobile above his crib. He was a happy child, yet the aura of latent power around him was unmistakable. I tilted my head, observing the fluctuations in his energy. Even in sleep, he radiated a chaotic potential that demanded vigilance.
"Another quiet morning," I thought, "but no time to relax. Every day, every moment counts with him."
As his guardian, it was my responsibility to ensure his safety. Kael and Amara had entrusted him to me while managing their duties as leaders, adventurers, and protectors. And I took that responsibility seriously.
---
Observation and Training
I crouched beside Blue, allowing my presence to subtly influence the room. Even at his age, the child's system occasionally activated spontaneously—small bursts of energy, faint ripples in the air, sparks of chaotic magic.
"Interesting…" I murmured. "His Tempest System is strong. But it's uncontrolled, erratic. Like all new systems, it needs guidance."
I began a subtle exercise, creating tiny constructs of light and shadow around him. Blue's wide eyes followed the movement, fascinated, yet instinctively responsive.
[Skill Activated: Tempest Sensory Pulse — Lv.1]
[Experience: +5,000]
He laughed softly, reaching out to touch one of the hovering constructs. I smiled, maintaining the delicate balance between observation and gentle guidance.
Even in play, I had to ensure he learned how to focus, control, and adapt to the chaotic energy within him. The God of Chaos's blessing was a gift—but also a responsibility.
---
Protective Instincts
My senses extended beyond the nursery. REF's wards, Luminor's towers, and the city's magical defenses were strong, yes—but I couldn't rely solely on them.
I flicked my gaze to the corridors outside, ensuring no intruders, no rogue magic, no hidden dangers. System pinged softly:
[Ambient Threat Level — Low]
[Recommended Action — Maintain Vigilance]
I shifted slightly, tail brushing the floor, ears attuned to every whisper of movement. Even the faintest disturbance could signal danger to Blue.
My role wasn't just guardian—it was mentor, guide, and observer. And sometimes, a little more. If anyone or anything threatened him, I would act before the threat even became obvious.
---
A Quiet Bond
Blue cooed and grabbed my hand, tiny fingers curling around mine. My form shimmered slightly as I adjusted to maintain a human shape he could recognize.
"Easy there, little one," I murmured softly. "Everything is safe. Everything is fine."
He blinked, giggling as if he understood my words. I felt the bond strengthen—a connection beyond mere duty. I wasn't just protecting him; I was part of his growth, part of his awakening as the next generation of Eldraths.
System pinged:
[Bond Established: Guardian-Child]
[Experience: +10,000]
I allowed myself a brief smile. Kael and Amara would be proud, I hoped. Not just for his safety, but for the lessons he would eventually learn under my watchful eye.
---
Preparing for the Day
I carefully picked up Blue, holding him close while ensuring his chaotic energy remained stabilized. REF's morning bustle was beginning—servants moving through the mansion, magical constructs performing tasks, and distant alerts signaling that Kael and Brown were likely engaged elsewhere.
"Time for breakfast," I murmured, my voice calm and steady. "And some gentle exercises."
I guided him to the small play area, where simple constructs of light floated and shimmered. Blue laughed and swatted at them, accidentally causing a small surge of energy to ripple outward. I immediately stabilized it with a subtle shift of my aura.
[Skill Observed: Tempest Pulse — Response Lv.1]
[Experience: +5,000]
I noted the reaction carefully. Each burst, each small surge, was data—patterns I could use to guide him later. The God of Chaos's blessing was strong, but untrained. My role was to shepherd him safely through the early stages.
---
Reflection
Watching Blue laugh, play, and respond to the constructs, I felt a strange pride. Not for myself, but for him. This child carried immense potential, and with guidance, he could surpass even Kael one day.
Yet potential brought danger. Many would see the power he carried and attempt to exploit or eliminate him. That was why I was here. To watch, to guide, to protect, and to teach him the first lessons in controlling what lay dormant within.
As I adjusted his tiny arm in my grasp, I whispered softly, more to myself than to him: "The world may not understand you yet, little one. But I will keep you safe. I will teach you control. And one day… when you are ready… you will wield your power as it was meant to be."
Blue giggled again, kicking his tiny legs, completely unaware of the weight of the blessing he carried. I smiled, letting him play. My vigilance never faltered, but for now, I allowed him the freedom of innocence.