Having acquired proficiency in the world's language and system of writing, Yuri started frequenting the library to gain more knowledge.

In the heart of a library, a five-year-old boy was engrossed in a world of books. His jet-black hair was cut short, and his eyes, a captivating shade of red, were alight with curiosity and wonder. As he sat on the chair, a stack of books beside him

"Indeed, Xerov is not just larger, but also far more complex than Earth," Yuri said, his eyes scanning the ancient text, eventually switching to the map of Xerov.

He traced his fingers over the beautifully illustrated map of Xerov, his mind whirling at the sight of all the different landmarks.

After looking at the map for a while, he decided to switch books to one that had information on the different beasts and races of the world.

As Yuri's eyes scanned the pages, absorbing the knowledge of the dangerous creatures and diverse races, he sighed and murmured to himself, 'This world, there's a shit load of danger. Yet, its mysteries beckon me. The allure of the unknown…'

"it's irresistible." His voice echoed in the silent room, a testament to his unyielding resolve and insatiable curiosity.

Taking his mind off the perils of the world, he decided to check something.

Focusing his mind, a game-like interface appeared in front of him.

[ Status ]

‣ Name: Yuri Kaguno

‣ Class: ( Locked )

‣ Realm: Mortal

‣ Title: ( Locked )

‣ Passives: ( Locked )

‣ Attributes

- Strength: 1

- Dexterity: 1

- Agility: 1

- Stamina: 1

- Constitution: 1

- Int: 1

‣Traits: ( Locked )

‣ Arts: ( Locked )

‣Skills: ( Locked )

'I still can't believe this is real. It's like a status screen in a game.' He thought, closing the panel.

"I think it's about time I asked about this system and what abilities people have," Yuri mused aloud. Rising from the chair that had cradled his form for hours.

His fingers danced along the spines of the books before him, a silent farewell to the knowledge they held, as he meticulously returned each one to its rightful place.

The library, a grand vault of wisdom, watched in silent reverence as its youngest seeker made his way to the exit. The echo of his footsteps against the stone floor marked his departure, a steady rhythm that mirrored the pulsating questions in his mind. 'The perils of this world are many, and yet, humans thrive. Surely, they wield some crazy powers right?' He pondered as his thoughts were in a whirlwind of curiosity.

Yuri's steps carried him past rows of bookshelves, each a sentinel guarding the mysteries of the ages. 'I've played the part of a little kid for a while now, my questions and curiosity having to be buried. Now, the time for answers beckons.'

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The descent down the spiraling staircase was a descent into a new chapter in his life, each step a deliberate stride towards enlightenment.

The cool air of the library gave way to the warmth of the sun as he approached the courtyard's threshold.

There, standing at the gateway, Yuri found himself not at the end of his journey, but at the very precipice of adventure.

Lost in his own reverie, he barely noticed how the world outside had come into sharper focus, the courtyard's expanse unfolding before him like a canvas awaiting the first stroke of color.

The air was alive with the melodic chirping of morning birds, harmonized with the gentle rustle of jade-green leaves. His father, seated in the heart of this natural symphony, was the epitome of calm, his presence as still as the ancient stones that lined the garden. The sweet fragrance of blooming jasmine lingered, wrapping around him like a comforting embrace as he observed his father, a tranquil figure, rooted in the essence of meditation." Mizuno who sensed Yuri, came out of his state of meditation.

"Yuri my boy!" Mizuno said

"Hey pops, can I ask you a question?" Yuri said trying to do his best kid impression.

"Yea sure bud, what you need?" Grabbing the water bottle he had lay next to him before he started his meditating session.

"When do I gain abilities and powers like you and mum?" Yuri asked. His eyes were wide with an unquenchable thirst for the unknown. There was a bright spark in his gaze, a reflection of the boundless wonder that danced within his mind.

His father's eyes gleamed with a mixture of pride and nostalgia as he gazed down at Yuri. A warm smile spread across his face, one that held the wisdom of years and the joy of a shared future. "In five years' time, my son, you will step upon the same path your mother and I have taken," he said, his voice a gentle echo of the legacy they bore.

"At the tender age of ten, the world of cultivation opens its gates to welcome new seekers. That is when you, too, will embark on the journey that beckons every practitioner."

"Continuing his lesson, 'The people of Xerov harness the power of elemental cultivation, a system intricately divided into eight distinct realms, each further subdivided into three progressive stages. This system is not merely a tradition, but a pathway to amass power and ascend in our society.

Upon birth, each individual is bestowed with an elemental affinity, a bond that becomes apparent upon the completion of the 'Preliminary Stage,' also known by many as the 'Mortal's Crucible.' This elemental affinity, coupled with your chosen weapon, forms the basis of your cultivation journey. The system then presents you with three class options, each tailored to your unique combination of element and weapon.

From that point forward, you embark on your personal journey of cultivation."

"Thank you for your guidance. I'll work hard to become strong!" Yuri said, his mind buzzing with the new knowledge he had gained.

"You're welcome, but go help your mom and sister in the kitchen. I'll be there after I'm done finishing up," Mizuno replied, settling back into a cross-legged position, his aura blending seamlessly with the surrounding nature.

"Yes sir," Yuri responded, turning on his heel and making his way towards the kitchen. As he left the tranquility of the courtyard, the scent of cooking wafted towards him, guiding him along the stone path that wound its way through the verdant garden. The rustling leaves and the soft chirping of birds gradually gave way to the comforting sounds of his home.

Stepping through the doorway, Yuri was greeted by the sight of his mother expertly chopping vegetables. Her movements were a dance of culinary skill. Beside her, a mini version of her. His little sister Aurora, who was born a year after him, was diligently stirring a pot and adding ingredients as needed. Yuri's lips curled up into a smile at the heartwarming scene. His family, his home, his world - this was what he was determined to become strong for and to protect.

"Yuri, can you take over and cut the rest of these bell peppers? I need to start preparing the meat." His mother said while quickly running to the refrigerator.

Finally, walking over he grabbed the ingredients and the knife and started to chop.

'Times like these really make me feel thankful for this new life I've been given.'

After he cut the rest of the vegetables, he cleaned his mess up and moved on to setting up the dining room table.

Yuri carefully aligned the silverware next to the fine porcelain plates. As he folded the crimson napkins into elaborate swans, a wistful sigh escaped his lips, stirring the silence of the empty room.

'If only they knew the truth behind these hands,' he mused silently, his thoughts adrift. 'In a past life, these very hands wielded a blade for one purpose, killing.'

'I guess I also just loved wielding a sword.' He said inwardly as he chuckled softly, the sound echoing off the grand walls.

'In this world, the martial arts and swordsmanship should transcend the wildest reaches of my imagination.' A sly grin unfurled across his lips, lending him a mischievous, almost sinister, air.

He placed the last glass on the table, its gentle chime resonating in the quiet room.

The table set, Yuri stepped back, admiring his handiwork.

'Dinner is but a prelude,' he thought, a spark of anticipation lighting his eyes. 'For my true feast lies in the mastery of the sword and the secrets of elemental cultivation.'

'5 years.' He took a deep breath, feeling his heart racing. 'I can continue on my path of swordsmanship in 5 years.'