The forest clearing was bathed in the soft light of dusk. A small wooden cabin stood nestled among the towering trees, smoke rising gently from its chimney. The last rays of the sun filtered through the dense canopy, casting an orange glow over the serene scene.

Inside the cozy cabin, Eldric, the grandfather, sat by a warm fire, stirring a pot of stew. His strong build and gentle eyes were softened by the firelight, which flickered against the wooden walls filled with shelves of books and artifacts from his past adventures.

Lian, a young boy with messy black hair and bright eyes, burst into the cabin with a cheerful grin. He carried a small bundle of firewood, his energy as infectious as ever. “I’m back, Grandpa! Is dinner ready yet?”

Eldric’s face broke into a warm smile as he looked up at his grandson. “Just about. Why don’t you set the table while I finish up here?” His eyes, full of love and pride, reflected the warmth of the fire.

Lian eagerly set the table, his excitement palpable as he laid out the simple wooden bowls and spoons. Eldric, focused on serving the stew, wore a contented expression. “I can’t wait to eat! Your stew always tastes amazing!” Lian said, anticipation in his voice.

The two shared a quiet moment at the table, enjoying their meal in comfortable silence. “So, Grandpa, when do we start training again?” Lian asked, breaking the silence.

Eldric looked up, his expression serious yet gentle. “Patience, Lian. Enjoy your food first.”

As dawn broke the next morning, the forest clearing was bathed in the soft light of the rising sun. Lian, dressed in simple training clothes, stood ready with a wooden sword, his stance eager but unsteady. Eldric, with a serious expression, faced him. “Today we start with the basics. Ready yourself.”

Lian’s excitement was clear as he prepared for training. “I’m all set, Grandpa! Let’s make this quick, okay?” he said, his enthusiasm unwavering.

Eldric demonstrated a sword stance with perfect precision, his movements controlled and deliberate. “Your stance must be firm. Focus on your balance and your breath,” he instructed.

Lian attempted to mimic Eldric’s stance but struggled. His legs trembled as he tried to hold the position. “This is harder than it looks! Why can’t I get it right?” he complained, frustration evident in his voice.

Eldric, observing Lian’s struggle, offered his advice with calm patience. “Strength and skill come with time, not haste. Patience is key.”

Despite Lian’s frustration, he picked up his sword again, a look of renewed determination on his face. “Alright, Grandpa. I’ll try harder. Thanks for the advice.”

This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

The clearing was now fully illuminated by the morning sun, and Lian, sitting on the ground, panted in frustration. “Why can’t I just learn everything at once? Why do we have to go so slow?” he wondered aloud.

Eldric, standing over Lian, looked down with a calm but firm expression. “Nothing in life worth having comes easily. You must earn your skills through effort.”

Lian’s face reflected confusion and frustration. “So I have to go through all this trouble just to get better?”

Eldric’s serious demeanor softened slightly as he ruffled Lian’s hair with a small smile. “Life would be rather dull if everything were handed to you, wouldn’t it?”

Lian stood up, gripping his sword with renewed resolve. “Okay, Grandpa. I’ll keep at it. I won’t give up!” he declared.

Eldric watched Lian with pride, a warm smile on his face. “That’s the spirit. Keep working hard, and you’ll get there.”

The clearing transformed into a battleground as Lian and Eldric engaged in a sparring match. Swords clashed with intensity, and Lian, determined, thought to himself, I got you now, old man!

Eldric, momentarily surprised by Lian’s improved skills, thought, He’s one hell of a learner. This boy might be able to make a change...

As Lian launched a confident attack, he teased Eldric. “What are you rambling on about, old man? Don’t tell me you’re going senile!”

Eldric snapped back to reality, blocking Lian’s sword with ease. “Watch yourself!” he warned.

The clash of swords resulted in Lian being knocked down, his sword skidding away as he tripped over a stone. He narrowly avoided a serious injury, his face showing shock. That was close... he thought to himself.

Eldric’s expression shifted from seriousness to concern. “Sorry, Lian. I didn’t mean to hit that hard,” he said, realizing the force he used.

Lian, sitting on the ground, looked up at Eldric with curiosity. “What was with that serious look and that bit of bloodlust?” he asked.

Eldric’s expression softened as he answered, “I was just thinking about something. Nothing to worry about.”

Lian chuckled as he got back up. “It must’ve been serious if it made you mad enough to swing like that! I thought I was a goner!”

Eldric, amused, responded, “You’re so dramatic, Lian. I doubt I really put that much power behind my swing.”

Lian mimicked Eldric’s serious expression with a cheeky smile. “Now I know you’re really trying to kill me!” he said with an annoyed face.

Eldric laughed heartily. “You really are dramatic, Lian.”

Lian, hoping to change the subject, asked, “What’s for dinner, old man?”

Eldric playfully threatened, “Keep calling me ‘old man,’ and you’ll have to forage and cook for yourself.”

Lian looked at Eldric with wide, pleading eyes. “You wouldn’t do that to your poor grandson, would you?”

Eldric’s face was serious but with a hint of humor. “Try me, Lian.”

Lian smirked. “Now I know you’re really trying to kill me!” he replied with a cheeky expression.

Eldric laughed warmly as he prepared for dinner. “You really are dramatic, Lian!”

Later, as Eldric enjoyed a bowl of Lian’s favorite stew, Lian looked on enviously. “Please, Grandpa! Just one bowl of that amazing stew!” he begged.

Eldric shook his head firmly. “Not until you apologize for mocking me.”

Lian, somewhat embarrassed but smiling, said, “Alright, alright! I’m sorry, Grandpa. Please, can I have some stew now?”

With a satisfied smile, Eldric handed Lian a bowl of stew. “There you go. Remember, hard work pays off.”