After completing my basic studies in the major subjects, I realized that to get by in this new world, I must understand how it really works. The rule here is simple power is everything. Money alone counts for little without strength.
During my studies, I also learned some key facts about this world its economy, geography, and currency. I didn't go into great detail, just enough to know what I need to survive. There are four main currencies, with the last one rarely used in high level trade: copper, silver, gold, and platinum coins.
A hundred copper equals one silver, a hundred silver equals one gold, and a hundred gold equals one platinum coin. A basic meal costs around 3 to 5 copper, and a basic room for one night costs about 5 to 10 copper. Owning even one platinum coin means having a small fortune.
Some independent countries use smaller currencies, but they're uncommon. Banks exist, but they aren't as developed as the ones from my previous world.
Now, I'm six years old. Over the past year, I focused almost entirely on my studies, spending time in the library to learn as much as I could. My grandfather seems worried about me lately and has started insisting that I exercise daily. I don't mind it's good for me. I don't know what kind of ability I'll awaken or when it will happen, but I at least need to strengthen my body.
In my past life, I was a skilled martial artist, so I plan to adjust my old techniques to this world's martial arts. My goal for the past year was to learn everything necessary to survive here, and I finished that about a week ago.
Interestingly, as I approached six years old, I began to sense a strange energy around me faint but real. After some meditation, I could feel it a bit more clearly, though not much stronger. When I asked my mother about it, she smiled and explained that it's mana. People usually start to sense mana around age six, though some do earlier or later. Very few never sense it at all.
This year, my birthday feels different. There's a small party with a few guests probably my grandfather's idea. He likes to show off. Turning six marks the official start of primary education in this world. Commoners usually attend church run schools, while nobles hire private tutors. At age twelve, talented or noble children can apply to academies, depending on their skills and wealth.
As for me, I've already completed most of my basic studies. Now, I can focus on combat training, exploration, and my own research.
About five days before my birthday, Grandfather came to visit and brought Olivia with him. At that time, I was trying to get some information from Roland while Lucy hummed a song nearby, quietly watching us.
When Grandfather entered the room, both Roland and Lucy greeted him and bowed slightly. I also greeted Grandfather. Grandfather then told me that some important guests would arrive soon and that a celebration would be held in about five days. He said I needed to practice proper etiquette with Olivia before then.
While looking around, He also told Lucy that she would have to attend the event as well. The moment Lucy heard that, her expression changed I could already tell this was going to be troublesome. Grandfather, as usual, seemed amused and ready to tease me.
For the next five days, I trained in etiquette with Olivia. Lucy often acted as my partner, even when I had to practice dancing. Olivia was always gentle with me when I made mistakes, but poor Lucy wasn't so lucky every misstep she made earned her a long lecture. I couldn't help but feel sorry for her.
Before I realized it, five days had gone by. I noticed small decorations being added around the mansion, and the air was filled with the smell of fresh food. The whole place felt livelier than usual. It seems I'm finally going to enjoy my first real birthday party in this world.
Oh, the young lord looks great. I'm sure you won't have any trouble finding girls, Lucy said with a laugh. Right now, I'm getting ready for the evening celebration party, and Lucy is helping me prepare.
I glance over and see Roland on the other side, quietly looking at his sword. I can't really understand that man. He always seems fixated on his weapon. I look back at Lucy. She's wearing a new maid uniform that Olivia gave her after their etiquette lesson. I can tell Olivia cares about Lucy, even if she doesn't show it openly. I still don't know what their relationship is really like.
Lucy's outfit resembles a maid's, but it's a bit different, probably because she's my personal attendant. She looks beautiful today with her long black hair. Her maid outfit has a long black skirt and a white apron, and she wears a simple necklace with a round white gem.
Roland also seems to have changed his usual outfit. He's wearing a long black coat with gold buttons and a high collar. Black pants and knee high boots finish the look, but his hairstyle is the same as always short black hair tied in a ponytail. They both look good, but not as good as me. Ha!
While thinking that, I glance at the mirror. My short white hair looks perfect, and my elegant outfit features a green vest with detailed gold embroidery over a white frilled shirt. A large gemstone brooch at my neck adds a touch of class. Sure, I'm more handsome than any man in this world, I think with a laugh, smiling to myself.
Just then, I hear someone teasing me with a playful tone. I look over at Lucy, who's laughing with a mischievous smile. "I'm not laughing at you! I'm just recalling a joke, that's why I'm laughing, sure," she says quickly.
Right then, Roland calls out, "Young master, let's go. Guests will arrive soon, and it wouldn't do to be late for your birthday celebration."
I nod and say, "Yes, let's go."
With that, Roland leads the way to Lunareth Mansion's main hall, followed by Lucy and me.