"I'm sure you'll be able to use them," Aldwin said firmly. "You have all five attributes. With enough training, you might truly master them all. But listen carefully, Rowan—this must stay a secret. If the king finds out, he'll force you to serve the kingdom directly. You'd become a palace knight, tied down, following orders. Your freedom would be gone. And that would waste your real potential."
He leaned back, thoughtful.
"But as an adventurer, you'll be free. You'll grow at your own pace, choose your battles, and build your own destiny. That's why I want this for you."
A faint shadow crossed his face.
"The last time I saw the king was eight years ago. And trust me—serving him is no life for someone like you."
"But you served him once," Rowan said quietly. "Yet you're happily married."
Aldwin chuckled. "And that's why I say you don't think like a child." A smile softened his face.
"Your mother—she's the daughter of a duke. She lived a life of luxury, yet she fell in love with me. And I loved her. I had neither wealth nor a noble family, but the duke trusted me with his daughter."
His tone shifted as he continued.
"As for the king… yes, I once served him as a knight. Before I settled down, we were close. He invited me to dinners, gatherings, even personal outings. When I told him I wanted to live far away, he said he'd visit someday. Around the time you were born, I heard he had a daughter too."
"There aren't many people living here," Rowan said. "It's surprising that you know him."
"Oh yes," Aldwin replied. "Most people live in the capital. When you turn ten, you'll go there. You can stay on campus or live at home—it'll be your choice."
"Okay, Dad."
As they spoke, Mira stepped into the room.
"Hey, what are you telling him? He's still a child. Don't talk about knights and dangerous paths. I'm sure he doesn't even understand."
"Sorry," Aldwin said softly, "but our son is too smart for his age. He understood everything."
Before Mira could respond, the sound of a horse echoed outside. Aldwin stood and walked toward the door.
"Mom, who do you think is here?" Rowan asked.
"I don't know. Go check if you want. And let me clean your room—stop throwing books everywhere. When you finish reading, put them back properly."
"Okay, Mom."
Rowan stepped out and walked toward the entrance. When he opened the door slightly, his eyes widened. A luxurious carriage stood in front of the house, shining under the sunlight.
"Wow… that's incredible."
Even in his past life, he had seen fine carriages, but this one outshined them all.
The carriage door opened, and a tall, handsome man stepped out. His clothes were elegant, his posture regal.
"How have you been? Long time no see," he said warmly.
"Yes, it's good to see you, brother-in-law," Aldwin replied. The two clasped hands, smiling.
Then the man's gaze shifted toward Rowan, who peeked from behind the door.
"And who is this little fellow?"
"That's my son, Rowan," Aldwin said, scratching the back of his head with an awkward grin.
"What? You already had a child—and you didn't tell me? My sister gave birth and you didn't invite us? Not even a ceremony?" the man—Edric—said in disbelief.