"Young master Alvaro, time to wake up," came the voice of an older woman.
As I opened my eyes, I saw Rosemary—the lady who served as the maid of the house—gently trying to rouse me from sleep. As I grow, my memories become clearer. Now, I can fully understand the language and communicate at a decent level. I've even grasped the concept of time here. It's almost the same as my previous world, with four seasons in a year. Based on what I've picked up, I'm already four years old. The household always holds some kind of celebration for me during winter, and my mom often tells me bedtime stories about how I was born in the middle of the season.
I feel proud of the progress I've made in this new life. Still, there's a lot I don't know. But I'm in no rush—I want to enjoy my childhood.
I reluctantly woke up, rubbing my eyes before speaking to Rosemary.
"Can I sleep a little longer?" I asked, giving her the pleading eyes I'd trained to earn sympathy from caretakers and parents alike.
"No, young master," she replied, shaking her head without falling for my act. "Lord Rodrigo and Madam Ilona are almost ready for breakfast. You need to be ready too."
Lord Rodrigo and Madam Ilona—my parents. Thanks to the blessing of wealth I chose, I'd already suspected my parents were either nobles or merchants. But judging from the numerous coats of arms displayed throughout the manor, I was leaning heavily toward nobility. I still haven't confirmed it officially, but everything around me—this large manor, the abundance of servants, the constant supply of food—suggests noble blood.
"All right, Rosemary. Help me get cleaned up," I said.
Rosemary took my hand and led me to the bathroom, where other servants had already prepared bathwater and supplies. I'd grown used to being bathed either by Rosemary or my mother. Lately, though, Mother seemed busy, so I spent most of my time with Rosemary. As for my father, interactions with him were rare. He was often away, leaving early and returning late. Still, both of them showered me with affection whenever they had the chance.
After my bath, clean clothes were prepared—luxurious and comfortable, at least compared to what the servants wore. The quality of the silk was outstanding. They also brought out a knitted outer garment—something my mother had made herself. Winter was harsh, and she loved to knit during her spare time.
Looking at myself in the mirror, I saw a small red-haired boy staring back. It seemed I'd inherited my mother's striking red hair and eyes. My facial features resembled hers too—soft and somewhat feminine. I could see a hint of my father in my face, but not much.
"At least let me inherit Father's height…" I mumbled.
"What did you say, young master?" Rosemary asked.
"Nothing," I replied quickly, embarrassed that she heard me.
"If there's nothing else, let's head to the dining room," she said.
I followed her down the hallway. As we passed, the servants greeted me with respectful "Young master"s. Honestly, it felt kind of nice—something I'd never experienced in my previous life.
When we arrived at the dining room, both of my parents were already seated and eating. My mother looked stunning, graceful in every motion—like a painting come to life. When she noticed me, she gave me a warm, angelic smile.
My father, large and strong like a seasoned warrior, had a tired expression on his face. But when he saw me, his face lit up instantly.
"Good morning, son," he said with a warm smile.
"Good morning, Daddy," I replied, walking over to him.
I asked for a hug, and he responded by lifting me up into his arms. I really enjoyed these moments. Afterward, I ran to my mother and asked for the same, but she only smiled.
"You're already growing up," she said softly, her smile gentle and full of love.
"Hehe," I giggled, genuinely happy to be raised in such a loving family.
"Come, sit beside Mommy and let's eat breakfast," she said.
I took my seat next to her. Breakfast was delicious as always, with an array of luxurious dishes even by my previous world's standards—though I missed the spices I once knew.
After finishing our meal, my mother spoke.
"Rosemary, is the girl ready?"
"Yes, Madam. I can bring her in now to introduce her to the young master," Rosemary replied.
I tilted my head, curious about who they were referring to. My mother noticed and smiled reassuringly.
"I'll explain when she arrives," she said.
Soon, Rosemary returned with a girl walking behind her. She looked around ten years old, with long ebony hair and delicate features that hinted at the beauty she'd become. She wore a maid outfit—smaller than the ones worn by the adult servants.
"This girl has the best potential among the young trainees," Rosemary explained. "She's intelligent, diligent, and obedient. According to the Stone of Trait, she also possesses the 'Comely Beauty' trait."
'Comely Beauty'? 'Stone of Trait'? I had so many questions, but I didn't think it was the right time to ask.
My father gave the girl a quick glance and nodded—his mind clearly preoccupied. My mother gave her a more thorough inspection, then nodded in approval.
"Not bad," she said. "What's your name?"
"My name is Ines, Madam Ilona," the girl answered. She turned to my father and then to me. "I greet Lord Rodrigo and young Lord Alvaro."
Both of my parents nodded again, approvingly. I, on the other hand, was still processing everything. Not only was this the first time a servant had been introduced to me so formally, but it was also the first time I'd heard about something called the 'Stone of Trait.'
Sensing my curiosity, my mother finally explained.
"Alvaro, this girl will be your personal servant. In the Catastille Kingdom, it is tradition for noble heirs to have a dedicated servant as they grow up. While other servants serve your father as the head of the house, she will serve only you."