The days drifted by in a gentle rhythm for Lucas. As the first chapter of his new life unfolded, he found solace in the routine of daily chores. The healing magic his grandfather Silas had performed was a marvel that Lucas could scarcely comprehend, but it had left him feeling both physically and emotionally rejuvenated. His head wound was a mere memory now, replaced by a deep sense of relief and curiosity.

Lucas continued with the mundane tasks of the household, from tending to the modest garden to caring for the animals. Despite his initial shock and confusion, he gradually began to find comfort in the simplicity of his new life. Silas, though his age was now clear to Lucas as an astonishing 134 years, appeared to be in excellent health, moving with a graceful steadiness that belied his years. His presence was a pillar of strength and warmth, even if Lucas was still grappling with the full scope of his situation.

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The weeks passed, and Lucas found himself slowly shedding the isolation he had initially cloaked himself in. His memories of Oden's life had fused seamlessly with those of Lucas, and with them came a growing curiosity about the world around him. Silas had always been a figure of mystery, particularly regarding his magic. The old man had performed spells sparingly, and Lucas had observed this with a mix of awe and frustration. He had tried to inquire about magic in the past, but Silas had always deflected such questions with gentle evasions.

One crisp morning, Lucas mustered the courage to broach the topic again. The sun filtered through the canopy of the Weeping Forest, casting dappled shadows on the ground. Lucas, who had been helping Silas prepare for their journey to the nearest village, felt his heart race as he turned to his grandfather.

"Hello, Grandpa," Lucas began, his voice trembling slightly. "I... I just want to ask you about the magic you performed that day."

Silas paused, his weathered face momentarily obscured by a thoughtful frown. The silence between them was heavy, and Lucas's heart pounded in his chest. Finally, Silas looked at him with eyes that held both kindness and a hint of sadness.

"Magic, Lucas," Silas began slowly, "is very dangerous. It can save lives, but it can also take them. It's a double-edged sword, one that must be handled with care and respect."

Lucas's eyes widened. "So... what is the magic you did?"

Silas took a deep breath. "The World consciousness grants a Mana Seed to selected individuals. You, Lucas, are one of those chosen. The Mana Seed enables us to perform spells, but it must be cultivated into a Mana Heart. Your Mana Seed will mature once you turn seven."

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Lucas's curiosity flared. "Grandpa, do you have a Mana Seed?"

Silas nodded. "Yes, I do. The Mana Seed allows a mage to live longer and cast powerful spells. In the coming days, we will go on journey to procure materials for your Mana Seed awakening ceremony."

Lucas absorbed the information with a mix of wonder and trepidation. The prospect of awakening his Mana Seed was both exhilarating and daunting. His grandfather's words had opened a new door of possibilities, and Lucas was eager to explore what lay beyond.

As they prepared for their journey, Lucas couldn't help but reflect on the changes in his life. The quiet countryside, the dangerous yet mesmerizing Weeping Forest, and the enigmatic magic of his grandfather all painted a picture of a world that was both familiar and foreign. The adventure that awaited him was beginning to take shape, and with it, a new chapter of his life was about to unfold.

Silas and Lucas set out early the next morning, the air crisp with the promise of a new day. The forest around them was alive with the sounds of nature, and as they rode toward the nearest village, Lucas marvelled at the vibrant landscape. His thoughts were a whirlwind of excitement and apprehension as he considered the path that lay ahead.

A few days into their journey, they arrived at the village of Hunterosa, nestled deep in the forest. The village was small, with around 200 people who survived off the land, primarily through hunting. The people of Foxtail referred to them as the "forest people," and it was easy to see why. Their lives were woven into the dense wilderness surrounding them, and they moved with the grace and confidence of those who had spent their lives in tune with nature.

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As Silas and Lucas entered Hunterosa, the villagers paused in their daily routines, eyes widening in recognition. Without hesitation, they bowed low, their foreheads nearly touching the earth in a gesture of deep reverence. Lucas was taken aback by the sight, unused to seeing such deference. His grandfather, it seemed, commanded great respect here.

A tall man with white hair, dressed in simple but well-made clothing, approached them with swift strides. His face was weathered, but his posture was proud.

"Ohh... great mage," the man said, his voice filled with awe. "We villagers of Hunterosa welcome you to our village."

Lucas glanced at Silas, feeling the weight of the respect his grandfather commanded. Silas nodded with quiet humility.

"Thank you for your generosity, but we will just stock our supplies and be on our way," Silas replied, his tone gentle yet firm.

The tall man, who Lucas assumed was the village chief, smiled and nodded eagerly. "Of course, sir. Please, allow me to assist you." He hurried off, and soon enough, the villagers had arranged everything they needed—food, water, and various other essentials.

As they prepared to leave, the chief approached once more, his expression more serious this time. "Please be aware, sir," he said in a low voice. "Our hunters have located great hordes of goblins outside Weeping forest. I thought you should know."

Silas's face darkened. "Thank you, chief, for the warning," he said gravely.

With that, they departed, continuing their journey. Lucas, still processing the events, felt a new weight of responsibility settling on his young shoulders. The world was dangerous, more so than he had imagined. But with his grandfather by his side, he felt prepared to face whatever challenges awaited them.