Caelan's life follows the same routine—attending school and heading straight home afterward.

Hey Caelan, come with us! The gaming event is today at Barton Mall, and they’re releasing limited edition video games!” Shawn said, practically vibrating with excitement.

I sighed, glancing at the time. “I really wish I could, but I’ve got plans with my dad tonight. I need to head home early to get ready.”

Jin looked disappointed. “Seriously? That’s such bad timing. You’re going to miss all the fun!”

I gave them a regretful smile. “I know, it sucks. But I’ll make it up to you next time, I promise.”

Caelan gazed at his reflection in the mirror. He is wearing a gray suit with a blazer, trousers, and vest all in the same color. The blazer has sharp lapels and buttons, while the vest adds an elegant touch. He is also wearing a white dress shirt and a black tie, which completes the formal look. He has a wristwatch as a simple accessory.

His hair is neatly styled, with a bit of messiness to give it a natural look. This highlights his youthful appearance.

Overall, his look conveys confidence, professionalism, and respect

"Caelan stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his clothes one last time. When he felt satisfied with his appearance, he gave himself a nod of approval before heading downstairs.

As he reached the bottom of the stairs, his mother spotted him and smiled warmly. 'Caelan, you look so handsome, my dear,' she said, her voice full of affection.

Caelan chuckled, a playful grin spreading across his face. 'Well, I must've inherited it from you,' he teased.

His mother laughed softly, shaking her head. 'Hahaha, don’t let your father hear you say that,' she replied with a wink.

Caelan smiled and leaned down to kiss her on the cheek. 'I’ll be on my way, Mom.'

'Take care, sweetheart,' she said, her voice gentle and filled with care."

The black limousine slowly stopped in front of the Wynn Hotel, its shiny surface sparkling in the light from the entrance. A valet in uniform walked up and carefully opened the door.

Caelan adjusted his sleeve before stepping out. As soon as he got out of the car, his eyes were drawn to the tall building in front of him. The Wynn Hotel looked like a lantern in the night, with golden lights shining along its edges against the dark sky. The windows glowed softly, giving the building a heavenly appearance. The lower part of the hotel featured beautiful arches and an elegant design.

The doorman opened the glass door as Caelan entered. He stepped into an elegant lobby with shiny marble floors, a big crystal chandelier, and soft jazz music playing in the background. Caelan saw his father sitting in a chair, dressed in a dark navy suit, a white shirt, and a black tie. His hair was neatly styled to match his formal outfit.

He sat up straight in a fancy leather armchair, one foot resting on the other, with his hands relaxed—one on the armrest and the other on his knee. His posture showed confidence, control, and authority.

When his father saw Caelan, he immediately stood up and walked toward him. Unlike at home, where he was usually smiling and gentle, he now looked serious and had a strict attitude.

But this wasn’t new to Caelan. His father was a different person at home than when he was with others.

"Let's go," he said.

Caelan nodded.

As they entered, the grand hall the sound of their shoes against the marble floor echoed clearly. Caelan walked straight and full of confidence beside his father, whose demeanor was calm yet powerful. As they moved forward, he could feel the eyes of everyone in the room fixed on them, accompanied by murmurs of his father's name spreading like ripples across the hall.

The grand hall was stunning, filled with an air of grandeur. The golden embellishments on the walls shimmered in the light of the enormous crystal chandelier hanging from the high ceiling. Its warm glow bathed the entire room in a cheerful brilliance. Around the space, small lit candelabras flickered like stars in the night.

In every corner of the hall stood long tables draped in white cloth. Arranged upon them were gleaming silverware, fine porcelain, and floral decorations of white roses and lilies, which filled the air with a delicate fragrance.

The guests, dressed in their finest attire, were immersed in lively conversations. Gentle laughter and the clinking of glasses blended harmoniously with the soft strains of classical music playing in the background.

As Caelan walked alongside his father, he again felt the heavy weight of expectations placed upon him. Tonight, he was no longer just an observer—he was now part of this world, a step closer to the wealth and power his family represented.

As we were walking, we stopped when we saw a man with a professional appearance. His eyes held a smile as he looked at us, and he was dressed in a dark pinstriped suit. His hair was neatly styled, and his face bore a calm and confident expression. His overall look exuded professionalism and sophistication. Walking behind him was a teenage girl, close to my age, wearing a sparkling white dress. She had long black hair, an elegant and graceful demeanor, and delicate facial features.

"Dewan, I’ve been looking for you everywhere! I thought you wouldn’t make it," the man said, smiling.

"I got caught up with some things, that’s why I’m late," my father replied with a shrug.

The man turned to me. "So, this is Caelan, your eldest son? He looks just like you," he said with a friendly grin.

My father nodded. "Caelan, this is Francis Warton, the chairman of Warton Banks."

I stepped forward and smiled politely. "Good evening, Mr. Warton. I’m Caelan Levine. It’s a pleasure to meet you," I said respectfully.

Mr. Warton laughed loudly. "Hahaha, you’re too formal, Caelan! Just call me Uncle Francis. Your dad and I have known each other for a long time. And this is my youngest—and only—daughter, Catherine."

Catherine stepped forward with a warm smile. "Good evening, Mr. Levine… Caelan. I’m Catherine Warton," she said kindly.

Mr. Warton smiled playfully. "Like you, she’s also studying at Sanford Academy."

Catherine blushed slightly and looked down for a moment. "I’m in a different building because I’m only in Grade 10," she said shyly, then looked up and met my gaze.

Caelan looked toward the far end of the grand hall and saw a familiar face—Eliza, his classmate, wearing a red dress. "I didn’t know Eliza was at this party," Caelan thought. He quickly looked away and focused back on Catherine.

"Well then, Catherine, if you ever need help at school since I'm a senior, don’t hesitate to ask," Caelan said, smiling and sounding friendly.

Meanwhile, my father and Mr. Warton continued their conversation about business, while Catherine and I discussed our studies. Soon, other business associates of my father came over. I stayed next to my father, greeting the other guests politely, and he introduced me to everyone as his successor in the company.

I noticed Eliza walking out of the grand hall. Since I had been busy talking to my father’s associates and meeting people he introduced me to, I had forgotten Eliza was here. I decided to go over and say hello to her.

“Father, I just saw someone I know. I’m going to go greet her,” I said quickly.

“Alright, just make it quick,” my father replied without looking up.

I hurried down the hallway, but before I could catch up, she disappeared around a corner.

Where did she go? I wondered, scanning the area.

I continued searching, my eyes darting back and forth, until I spotted Eliza standing on the hotel terrace, deep in conversation with an older man.

I was about to turn around and head back when I heard something that made me stop in my tracks.

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“I thought you were close to Chairman Levine’s eldest son?” the older man asked, his tone sharp.

“As far as I know, we’re getting closer,”Eliza said softly, her gaze dropping to the ground.

The man scoffed. “Maybe you’re the only one thinking that. He didn’t even bother to greet you.”

“Grandfather, I’m trying. I really am,” Eliza replied, her voice carrying a hint of frustration.

“If that’s the case, you’re not trying hard enough. I made sure you’d be classmates. Some of your cousins also want to attend Sanford Academy, but I chose you because you’re the most beautiful. I’m counting on you to win the heart of the Levine heir,” the older man said, his voice growing stern.

“I’m sorry, Grandfather. I’ll do whatever it takes to win his favor,” Eliza said, determination hardening her voice.

“You’d better, Eliza. This isn’t just for the family—it’s for your future. Think about it: If you marry Caelan Levine, everything will be yours,” the man said, his words dripping with expectation.

I couldn’t bear to listen anymore, so I turned around and walked away, my mind swirling.

I’d been classmates with Eliza for nearly two years now, and I was well aware of her efforts to get closer to me. This wasn’t the first time someone had tried to form a connection because of my family’s wealth and power. Just like Mr. Warton—I knew he had brought Catherine to this party in hopes that we would meet for some potential arranged marriage in the future. Even if he didn’t say it outright, the implication was clear. But Eliza... Eliza was different. What I had thought were sincere intentions turned out to be nothing more than a carefully crafted act, driven by ulterior motives. It seems I still have a lot to learn about people.

I walked back into the party as though nothing had happened, slipping seamlessly back into conversation with the familiar guests, keeping my thoughts to myself.

The soft glow of the morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm, golden hue across Caelan's room. He blinked his eyes open, greeted by the gentle light of dawn. The clock beside his bed read 7 AM, but there was no rush. This was his usual routine—waking early to the sounds of the world beginning anew.

He sat up slowly, stretching as the cool breeze from the slightly open window washed over him, refreshing his mind. Another weekend, another visit to Grandfather, he thought, a mix of anticipation and a faint unease rising in his chest. His grandfather was not only a figure of love but of unwavering discipline.

After a quick shower, Caelan dressed and made his way downstairs to the dining room, where his family was already gathered for breakfast. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon filled the air, making the room feel alive with comfort and warmth. His mother sat at the head of the table, gracefully sipping her tea, while his father scrolled through the morning paper. Leyla and Cain giggled over a private joke between spoonfuls of cereal.

“Good morning, everyone,” Caelan greeted, settling into his seat.

“Caelan, don’t forget the tea leaves for your grandfather,” his father reminded him, looking up from his cup of coffee. His father's voice was calm but firm, always bearing a slight edge of authority.

“I’ve already placed them in the car, Father,” Caelan replied with a nod, ever diligent. Father’s reminders are more out of habit than necessity, he mused, but he respected the way his father always upheld the family's traditions.

Breakfast passed in peaceful quiet, save for the chatter of his younger siblings. His mind, however, had already wandered to the impending visit. After his grandmother passed away, his grandfather had retreated to the quiet solitude of the mountains. Yet, even in his retirement, he had remained a strict mentor, especially to Caelan, who was expected to carry on the family’s legacy.

Caelan, a Levine must be strong—physically, mentally, and spiritually, his grandfather's voice echoed in his mind, reminding him of the intense training sessions that lay ahead. The swordplay, the martial arts, the lessons in discipline and honor—it was never easy, but it had shaped Caelan into the person he was today.

---

As the car wound its way through the twisting mountain roads, Caelan gazed out at the lush greenery that stretched into the distance. The air was cooler here, fresher, as if the world itself slowed down. His mind felt clearer as the towering trees and the rugged peaks came into view.

Finally, the familiar white mansion appeared in the distance, nestled at the base of the mountains like a sentinel watching over the valley below. Despite the years, it looked just as grand as ever, standing tall and proud, much like the man who lived there.

As the car rolled to a stop, Caelan stepped out, feeling the crisp mountain air fill his lungs. His eyes immediately found his grandfather waiting outside, standing tall despite his age. His white hair gleamed in the sunlight, and his weathered face broke into a warm smile the moment he saw Caylan.

“Grandfather,” Caelan began, frowning slightly, his concern evident, “you shouldn’t be waiting out here for me. It’s too chilly in the mornings.”

His grandfather let out a deep, hearty laugh that echoed through the quiet mountain air. “Ah, Caelan, don’t worry about an old man like me. I’m always excited to see you! How could I stay inside when I know my grandson is coming?” Despite the years weighing on his body, his spirit was as lively as ever, a gleam of pride and affection in his eyes.

Caelan couldn’t help but smile, though the concern lingered in his heart. His grandfather was strong, but age was an undeniable force. How much longer will we have these moments? he wondered, though he kept his thoughts to himself.

“Father and the twins wanted to come with me today, but they had special lessons,” Caelan said as they began walking toward the mansion, the gravel crunching softly beneath their feet.

“Ah, those little ones,” his grandfather chuckled. “Always full of energy. I’ll see them soon enough. But today, it’s just you and me, Caelan. Come, let’s begin our training. The sword waits for no one.”

---

The wide garden behind the mansion had always been Caelan’s favorite place. It was quiet, peaceful, yet filled with the memories of countless training sessions. The familiar weight of his sword in his hand grounded him as he faced the wide-open space, his body already primed for the physical exertion ahead.

Sweat beaded on his forehead as he moved through the familiar motions of his training. Each swing of his sword was precise, each step calculated. His muscles burned with the effort, but there was a strange satisfaction in the challenge. His grandfather watched from nearby, his sharp eyes catching every movement, every slight adjustment in Caelan’s posture.

Caelan, your posture is strong. Keep it up,” his grandfather’s voice rang out, commanding yet full of pride.

“Yes, Grandfather,” Caelan replied, focusing his mind and body, pushing through the fatigue.

“Now, perform the Upward Slash,” his grandfather instructed, his tone leaving no room for hesitation.

Caelan shifted his stance, planting his feet firmly before executing the Upward Slash. His sword arced upward in a precise and powerful diagonal motion, the blade cutting cleanly through the air. The movement was fluid yet deliberate, every muscle in his body working in harmony. It was a blend of raw power and calculated precision, a testament to the years of training under his grandfather’s watchful eye.

“Very good,” his grandfather said with a nod of approval. “The speed and strength you’ve developed are impressive. When I was your age, I wasn’t half as skilled.”

Caelan wiped the sweat from his brow, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “That’s only because of your guidance, Grandfather. I owe it all to you.”

“Ah, don’t be modest!” his grandfather’s hearty laughter filled the air once again. “Even your father wasn’t this fast at your age. You’ve truly become something special, Caelan. Now, let’s head inside. We’ve earned a break.”

---

Sitting in the living room, the rich aroma of freshly brewed tea enveloped the space. Caelan watched as his grandfather took a slow, deliberate sip, savoring the flavor.

“This tea your father sent is of excellent quality,” his grandfather remarked, closing his eyes as he took in the scent. “Impressive. Your father knows his teas.”

Caelan nodded, but his mind was elsewhere, his eyes studying the subtle signs of fatigue on his grandfather’s face. His movements, once sharp and brisk, had become slower, more deliberate. Is he slowing down?

“Grandfather, how is your health?” Caelan asked softly, his voice betraying the concern he tried to hide. “You seemed... a bit weaker when I arrived. And your complexion—”

His grandfather sighed, setting his cup down gently on the table. “Caelan,” he began, his voice steady but tinged with resignation, “I’m 78 years old. I’ve lived a long life, and it’s only natural that my body begins to slow down.”

“But—” Caelan’s protest was cut off by the gentle yet firm touch of his grandfather’s hand on his shoulder.

“I’ve watched my son carry on our family’s legacy, and now I see you, stronger and more capable than I ever was at your age. Even if I were to leave this world tomorrow, I would go peacefully, knowing the Levine family is in good hands.”

Caelan’s throat tightened, a mix of pride and sorrow welling up inside him. He wanted to tell his grandfather he wasn’t ready, that he needed more time with him. But he knew better. His grandfather had always faced life with quiet acceptance, and this moment was no different.

---

The weekend passed in a blur of training and quiet moments of reflection. By Sunday afternoon, it was time for Caelan to return to the city. As he stood by the car, preparing to leave, he hugged his grandfather tightly, holding on for a moment longer than usual.

“Take care, Caelan,” his grandfather said, his voice softer than usual. “You’re growing stronger every day. Never forget the values I’ve taught you.”

“I won’t, Grandfather. I’ll see you next weekend,” Caelan promised, stepping into the car.

As the car pulled away from the mansion, Caelan looked back at the fading figure of his grandfather, standing tall despite his age. There was a heaviness in Caelan’s chest—a quiet understanding that these moments were becoming more precious, more finite.

That evening, back at the mansion, Caelan was greeted by the excited shouts of his younger siblings, Leyla and Cain. They burst into his room, full of energy and laughter, as though they had been waiting all day for his return.

"Brother!" Cain called out, practically bouncing with excitement. "When will Grandfather start teaching me martial arts?"

“You already know the basics, Cain. But when you turn seven, Grandfather will teach you when your a little bit older Caelan replied, smiling fondly as he ruffled his brother’s hair. Cain looked up at him with wide, eager eyes, as if seven couldn’t come fast enough.

Leyla, more reserved, clutched her stuffed animal close. “I miss Grandfather,” she said“I miss Grandfather,” Leyla said softly, her expression a bit sad as she hugged a stuffed animal close to her chest.

“Then why don’t you ask Father and Mother to clear their schedules so we can visit him together next time?” Caylan suggested, gently lifting her chin.

Her eyes lit up with excitement. “Really? I’ll ask them right away!”

Cain grinned. “Me too! I want to go!”

Okay, ask Mother and Father," Caelan said happily.