After the shocking "future planning," the adults decided on one thing—
The children needed to focus on training.
Immediately.
"Less talking about the future," Theo said firmly.
"More skill development," Lucas's father agreed.
Samuel stretched confidently. "Good. I'll win."
Lucas nodded. "We'll see."
Oliver sighed.
Finally… something normal.
---
The training ground behind the palace was prepared.
Small targets. Soft practice dummies. Plenty of open space.
Ryan bounced excitedly. "This is awesome!"
Elena held her hands nervously. "I hope I don't mess up…"
Theo stood watching closely.
Very closely.
Too closely.
Oliver noticed.
Still overprotective…
---
"Start," Sebastian announced.
Samuel moved first.
Wind gathered around his hand.
A sharp gust hit the target.
Direct hit.
Ryan clapped. "So cool!"
Samuel smirked. "Of course."
Lucas stepped forward calmly.
He touched the ground.
Stone rose slightly, forming a small shield.
Charles nodded. "Very stable control."
Lucas looked at Oliver. "Your turn."
---
Oliver lifted his hand slowly.
Magic threads gathered.
Golden light shimmered.
A small mana sphere formed.
This time— stable.
The target gently floated… then landed perfectly.
Silence.
Samuel narrowed his eyes. "…You improved."
Lucas nodded. "Control is better."
Oliver smiled slightly.
System training works.
A faint panel appeared:
Skill Improved: Mana Sphere → Stable
Magic Control: +2%
---
Ryan tried next.
He concentrated hard.
Nothing happened.
Then—
A small spark popped.
He blinked. "I did something!"
Everyone clapped.
Elena raised her hand shyly.
Soft light formed like fireflies.
Beautiful and gentle.
Oliver watched.
Everyone is growing.
---
Suddenly Samuel stepped closer.
"Let's compete."
Lucas agreed. "Three rounds."
Oliver sighed. "Again…"
Round one: Wind vs Earth — tie.
Round two: Magic control — Oliver wins.
Round three: Speed — Samuel wins.
Ryan counted loudly. "It's equal!"
Samuel crossed his arms. "Next time I'll win."
Lucas replied calmly. "We'll train more."
Theo looked proud.
"…Good progress."
Charles smiled. "They're working together."
Sebastian laughed. "And still competing."
---
The system panel flickered again.
Group Training Bonus Activated
Friendship Bonds: Strengthening
Rivalry: Healthy
Oliver blinked.
Healthy rivalry… that's new.
---
As the sun began to set, the children sat together, tired but happy.
Samuel leaned back. "We'll get stronger."
Lucas nodded. "Together."
Ryan smiled. "Best team."
Elena agreed softly. "Yes."
Oliver looked at them all.
Friends.
Rivals.
Training partners.
This childhood… is actually fun.
Theo placed a hand on his shoulder.
"…Good work."
Oliver smiled.
And the young heirs—
Continued growing stronger,
One training session at a time.