The Genius Mage Was Reincarnated Into A Swordsman Family

The first rays of dawn broke through the windows of the annex mansion, casting the room in a warm glow. Klaus stood by the window, his hands clasped behind his back, dressed in the uniform of a Lionhart Youth trainee. The dark fabric fit him well, accentuating his growing frame and carrying the understated prestige of the Lionhart family. His blue eyes, sharp and contemplative, gazed out at the dew-laden gardens.

The past three days had been a rare reprieve. During his time away from the training grounds, Klaus had found a semblance of peace. It was not just the physical rest that had rejuvenated him, but the chance to reflect. In the quiet halls of the annex mansion, surrounded by his mother's care and his father's quiet strength, Klaus had begun to fully accept who he had become. This life was no longer a mere extension of the last—he was Klaus Lionhart now, and this was his reality.

A soft knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts. "Come in," Klaus said, his voice even. The door opened to reveal Elisabeth, her auburn hair neatly pinned and her eyes filled with both pride and worry. She was dressed in an elegant but simple gown, her maternal warmth evident in every step she took toward him.

"It's time," she said gently, her voice carrying the weight of her emotions.

Klaus nodded, turning to face her. Before he could speak, Elisabeth stepped closer and placed a hand on his cheek. "You've grown so much," she said, her voice soft. "In more ways than one. I'm so proud of you, Klaus."

He felt a lump in his throat but managed a small smile. "Thank you, Mother."

Elisabeth's hand lingered for a moment before she dropped it and motioned toward the door. "Your father is waiting downstairs."

Together, they descended the grand staircase. At the base of the steps, Ludovic stood, his hands clasped behind his back. His gaze, steady and unwavering, softened when it landed on Klaus. Though Ludovic often carried an air of quiet dignity, his affection for his son was unmistakable.

"Ready?" Ludovic asked, his deep voice steady.

"Yes," Klaus replied, his tone firm.

Elisabeth handed Klaus a small bag containing some personal effects and a few extra provisions. "Take care of yourself," she said, her voice trembling slightly. "And don't push yourself too hard."

Klaus gave her a reassuring nod. "I'll be fine, Mother."

Ludovic placed a firm hand on Klaus's shoulder, his expression both serious and encouraging. "Remember, Klaus," he said, "you carry the Lionhart name, but more importantly, you carry your own strength and determination. Trust in yourself."

"I will," Klaus replied, meeting his father's gaze.

A small sound interrupted the moment, and Klaus turned to see Dudu, the small dragon, waddling into the room. The creature's black scales glistened like polished obsidian, and its bright golden eyes surveyed the scene with curiosity. Dudu flapped his wings, flying up to perch on Klaus's shoulder.

Elisabeth and Ludovic exchanged a glance but said nothing. While Dudu's presence was unusual, they both trusted Klaus's judgment. Experience exclusive tales on My Virtual Library Empire

The family stepped outside, where a sleek carriage waited. The Lionhart crest gleamed on its door, and two knights stood at attention beside it. Klaus turned back to his parents one last time.

"Thank you," he said simply, his voice carrying a weight of sincerity.

Elisabeth pulled him into a brief but tight embrace, and Ludovic gave him a curt nod of approval. With that, Klaus climbed into the carriage, and the door closed behind him. The driver snapped the reins, and the horses began their journey toward the training grounds.

Inside the carriage, Dudu settled on Klaus's lap, curling into a ball. Klaus absentmindedly stroked the dragon's scales as he gazed out the window. The familiar landscape rolled by, the vibrant greens and golden fields a testament to the prosperity of the Lionhart domain. The rhythmic clatter of the carriage wheels provided a steady backdrop to Klaus's thoughts.

The Lionhart Youth Training Grounds came into view after a few hours. The towering stone walls and the massive black iron gate were as imposing as ever, a testament to the prestige and authority of the Lionhart family. The crest of the Lionhart house was emblazoned at the center of the gate, and two sentinels stood guard, their polished armor gleaming in the sunlight.

As the carriage rolled to a stop, Klaus stepped out, his boots meeting the cobblestone with a decisive thud. Dudu hopped onto his shoulder, surveying the surroundings with keen interest. The sentinels immediately recognized Klaus, their postures straightening as they snapped to attention.

"Young Master Klaus," one of them greeted, bowing slightly. "Welcome back."

Klaus inclined his head, his expression calm and composed. The respect in the sentinel's tone was a stark contrast to how he had been received months ago when he first arrived at the training grounds. Back then, he had been just another trainee with a well-known name. Now, he returned as the youngest Swordmaster in history, his accomplishments earning him recognition even among the elite.

The second sentinel stepped forward and began to push the massive gates open. The iron groaned softly as they swung inward, revealing the sprawling training grounds beyond. Rows of trainees were visible in the distance, engaged in drills and sparring matches. The atmosphere was charged with energy and purpose, a place where the future leaders of the Lionhart family honed their skills.

Klaus stepped forward, his gaze steady as he passed through the gates. The sentinels saluted him, their movements crisp and precise. The weight of their respect settled on him, a reminder of how far he had come.

As the gates closed behind him, Klaus took a deep breath, the familiar sights and sounds of the training grounds washing over him. This was where he belonged, where he would continue to forge his path. The challenges ahead didn't intimidate him; they invigorated him.

Dudu let out a small chirp, as if to echo Klaus's determination. Klaus reached up to pat the dragon's head, a small smile tugging at his lips.

"Let's get to work," he murmured, stepping forward into the training grounds.