Old Man Yama's Reincarnation

Yamamoto had come to terms with the bizarre reality of being reborn, but one persistent question continued to nag at him: how exactly had he been reborn? Was this the work of the Soul King, or was there another explanation? The circumstances surrounding his rebirth didn't seem to fit with what he knew of the Soul King's abilities and actions.

"I can't do anything about discovering who or what brought me to this new life right now," Yamamoto thought, reflecting on his situation. "I can only hope to slowly uncover the truth as I grow up and learn more about this world and its mysteries." This thought gave him a sense of purpose and determination as he continued to adapt to his new life and surroundings.

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Alenna gazed fondly at her husband, Evan, cradling their newborn son. "Hubby, why don't you choose a name for him?" she asked softly.

Evan looked down at the baby nestled in his arms. The resemblance was uncanny—red hair like fire and sky-blue eyes that mirrored his own. For a moment, he simply observed his son, as if searching for the perfect name hidden within those features. Finally, a smile played on his lips.

"Ignis Drakonis," he said firmly. "From this day forth, our son will be known as Ignis Drakonis."

Alenna's eyes sparkled with delight. "What a strong and beautiful name," she said. "I see what you're doing—naming him Ignis because you want him to become a Fire Knight, just like you. Isn't that right?"

Evan nodded, his gaze still on the child. "Yes. I want him to grow into a powerful Knight, one who carries on the legacy. And this name... it's destined for him."

Alenna's smile faded slightly as she caught the weight in his words, but she said nothing more. There were too many maids and attendants bustling around them—this wasn't the place for such conversations.

With that, the family retired to their quarters.

What neither Alenna nor Evan knew was that their son was no ordinary child. Deep within the tiny body of Ignis Drakonis lived the soul of another: Yamamoto, a man from a distant world. Unaware of his new name or fate, Yamamoto, now Ignis, drifted into a deep sleep—his young body needing rest as it adjusted to its new existence.

Days turned into months, and Ignis began to grow within the grand Knight's mansion. At first, Yamamoto grappled with the unfamiliar language and customs of this strange world. Determined to adapt, he observed, listened, and practiced until he could understand and speak fluently.

By the time Ignis turned three, he had not only mastered the basics of the language but had also begun learning to read and write. Alenna, overjoyed by her son's curiosity and intellect, took it upon herself to teach him further. She was patient and kind, and her lessons became a cherished part of their days together.

Ignis—formerly Yamamoto—began to piece together the life that had been thrust upon him. He knew his name now. Ignis Drakonis.

By the time Ignis—formerly Yamamoto—reached the age of six, he had made remarkable progress. He could now understand and read most of the language of this new world, a testament to his determination.

On a tranquil afternoon, Ignis sat on a swing in the sprawling garden of the Knight mansion. A book titled Introduction to Professions rested in his hands, its worn spine hinting at frequent use. The swing creaked softly as he rocked back and forth, his eyes scanning the final pages with quiet concentration. Within moments, he snapped the book shut, a sense of accomplishment glinting in his sky-blue eyes.

Setting the book aside, Ignis reflected on what he had learned. In this world, the most revered professions were Knights and Magicians, with countless variations and specializations branching from these two paths. At the core of it all was Mana, the life force that powered spells and combat techniques. It was a stark contrast to the spiritual energy he had relied upon in his previous life.

Lost in thought, Ignis barely noticed his parents approaching until their voices broke the stillness of the garden.

"What's on your mind, my son?" Alenna asked gently, her voice warm and curious.

Evan chuckled from her side, a grin spreading across his face. "I bet he's imagining how dashing he'll look as a powerful Knight."

Alenna shot him a playful glare. "What nonsense. Our son is going to be a mighty Magician, like his mother."

Their banter brought a small smile to Ignis's lips. He closed his eyes briefly, enjoying the moment before speaking.

"What if I want to be both?" he asked, his voice calm but laced with quiet determination. "Is that not possible?"

Alenna and Evan exchanged a surprised glance before bursting into laughter.

"Well, you certainly have ambition," Evan said, ruffling his son's fiery red hair.

Evan knelt in front of his son, his expression serious but warm. "Son, it's not possible," he began, gesturing toward his abdomen. "We Knights store our Mana in the dantian, right here."

Ignis's gaze followed his father's hand as it rested just below his navel.

Evan continued, "Magicians, on the other hand, store their Mana in their heart." His tone turned sharper, sensing the question forming on Ignis's lips. "And before you ask why we don't store Mana in both places—listen carefully. It simply cannot be done."

He leaned closer, his voice firm but laced with concern. "Our bodies are designed to store Mana in one place. If someone tries to store Mana in both the heart and the dantian, the consequences are catastrophic. At best, the meridians will rupture, leaving the person crippled for life. But more often than not…" Evan's voice softened, tinged with a solemn weight. "They die."

He paused, letting the gravity of his words settle in. "It's happened before—many have tried, thinking they could defy the natural order. All of them paid the price. That's why no one dares attempt it anymore. So, promise me, Ignis. Never, ever try such a thing."

Ignis met his father's gaze, the boyish curiosity in his eyes tempered by understanding. He nodded solemnly. "I understand, Father. I won't try."

But even as Ignis nodded again, absorbing his father's words, a small ember of curiosity flickered within him. He understood the risks, yes—but a part of him couldn't help but wonder: What if there's a way to make the impossible possible?

For now, though, he stayed silent, content to let the question linger in the quiet recesses of his mind.

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