the beginning after the end perfect duo

Mana Purification and the Awakening of Lilia

If memory serves, Arthur will return to the age of nine. This gives me five more years to grow stronger—a crucial window of opportunity I can't afford to waste. Time feels like both an ally and an enemy in this world. On one hand, every passing day brings me closer to achieving my goals; on the other, it reminds me how much there still is to accomplish.

Since I can't purify my mana using clones, I've dedicated most of my time to meditation. It's not glamorous work, but it's necessary. Meditation allows me to focus inward, strengthening my core and refining my control over my magical energy. Though it requires patience and discipline, the results are worth it. Meanwhile, to improve my combat and sword-fighting skills, I've devised a unique training regimen involving multiple clones. These clones engage in constant sparring sessions, each practicing different styles and techniques. Watching them fight has been invaluable—it's taught me how to anticipate moves, counter effectively, and adapt quickly during battle.

The radioactive golems, however, presented their own set of challenges. To ensure safety, we constructed a specialized testing area far from populated regions. Given the volatile nature of these creatures, we fortified the site with powerful mana shields. Only my clones were permitted inside for experimentation. While they conducted tests, I remained cautious—losing a clone isn't ideal, but it's better than risking human lives. The goal was clear: harness the power of the golems without causing catastrophic damage.

While the clones trained tirelessly, I focused on two critical tasks: purifying my core and reviewing reports from the beast glades. Purification is a slow process, requiring unwavering concentration and persistence. Progress may seem incremental at times, but even small improvements compound over time. As for the beast glades, the reports revealed little beyond scattered Alacryan camps. Destroying those camps buys me precious time before larger complications arise. Although acquiring tempus warps or communication devices remains elusive, progress continues steadily.

Dinner Time

"Tom, may I ask you something?" Lilia asked hesitantly, her voice soft yet filled with curiosity.

I glanced up from my plate, meeting her eager gaze. "Of course, what is it, Lilia?"

"My mom told me that you've already awakened, but children usually awaken at twelve. How did you manage to do it so early? Can I train like you did to awaken sooner?" she pressed, leaning forward slightly.

Her question caught me off guard. For all her innocence, Lilia possessed a determination that rivaled mine. Still, I hesitated before answering. "I don't know how I did it. Maybe it was just... pure luck," I replied, hoping to downplay the mystery surrounding my awakening.

"But that doesn't make sense!" Lilia insisted, her eyes widening. "Mom said you must know something. There has to be a reason! I want to become a mage too—I want to make everyone happy."

Before I could respond, Tabitha interjected sharply. "That's enough, Lilia."

Her firm tone silenced the room. The rest of dinner passed quietly, with everyone lost in their thoughts. Lilia looked disappointed, but I couldn't blame her. Her desire to awaken mirrored my own struggles when I was younger. Yet explaining the truth felt impossible—not because I didn't trust her, but because I simply didn't have answers myself.

After Dinner

As the evening wore on, I found myself reflecting on Lilia's question long after the meal ended. Could I help her awaken? Was there a way to guide her through the process without putting her in danger? Eventually, I decided to take a chance.

"Lilia," I called softly as she prepared to leave the dining hall. She turned around, her expression hopeful. "I think I might be able to help you awaken, but you need to keep it a secret—for now."