4 Chapter 3; Mother's Dairy; 3 Years of Progress

***

Inside what seems to be a study room, a woman sits on a chair, scribbling in a book, surrounded by neatly placed shelves of books.

As she writes, a gorgeous smile plays on her lips, lost in thoughts and occasionally letting out small laughs remembering the past year.

×××××

"Quite a lot of time has passed since we found Alucard, our son, in front of our entrance. I felt devastated remembering that day.

I'm learning a lot of things about my babies each day passing by.

I have reached the conclusion after seeing Arthur and Alucard together, they bring me joy to my life.

I couldn't help but say that Arthur has to be the most adorable boy. And Alucard, he is too precious to be left out. I love both of them so much.

Arthur with his patch of Aumbum hair, and azure eyes which look at me with intelligence, he is so cute.

And Alucard's, his pitch-black hairs, and those curious starry black eyes, looking all around, make me smile, he is my moonshine. It's sure they would look angelic when they grow up.

But I worry about them, I know both of them will get in trouble in the future, that's why I have to become a strict and dependable mother.

It's not like I can't rely on Rey, but I saw him teaching my babies how to wield swords when they could barely crawl.

I was almost frightened when I saw Alucard laying near them without moving. That worried me a lot, however it was funny too, because he was sleeping there.

He seems to enjoy sleeping a lot, I mean, a lot. Most of the time, he's asleep, making things easier for me.

Arthur, on the other hand, doesn't cause any issue either, but he has this habit of sneaking out of bed when I'm not looking. Seeing him like this, I'm tempted to move his crib into the study room, but that's for the future.

One thing I've noticed is that Arthur loves going to the small merchant strip in the centre of Ashber.

Instead of shopping for groceries once or twice a week, we now go downtown every other day. I'm not spoiling him, it's all to have the fresh food in the house and education purpose.

And on the other hand, Alucard doesn't seem to want to leave the home, he would barely come out if I didn't take him with me.

But I observed him, he seems to like to read books sometimes.

He will come near me when I'm free, how thoughtful of him, and pull my hands with his small fingers without saying anything. I comply seeing him want to show something.

To my surprise, I found myself being led to the study room.

I see, he is taking 'Arthur as his role model'.

Once there, he pointed to a book, expressing a desire to read it himself. His beautiful eyes met mine, and those eyes... I couldn't resist. I can't deny him if he looks at me like that.

That's why, when I get time, I would read books for him or Arthur to spend more time.

However I worry about Alucard, he doesn't like to talk much either. That saddened me, but I can understand him most of the time. Seemingly what he wants to say, it makes me smile, as our bond between mother and son grows.

××××

Finally writing everything she has in her mind, Alice closed the dairy, she enjoys writing her experience with her children. The time they spent together, and the memories they created, she wanted to write that down.

"I should wake them up." She muttered, smiling, she put the dairy on the shelves, and went towards her child.

"Today's another great day~." she hummed.

×××××

[The Progress from a small dote to a whole Network.]

'And another node is done.' Alucard thought, inside his body where the core would form, a complex structure could be seen.

At the centre lies a small glowing particle, that was surrounded by similar orbs but smaller than the one in the centre, forming a matrix-like structure within the incomplete-core.

'Just a little bit more.' Over the last years, Alucard has managed to reach this far.

The core formation is now almost complete, he didn't think it would work so well.

Sacrificing his sleep, Alucard devoted himself to the core's creation, allowing only a brief 3-4 hours of rest.

Just last year, Arthur awakened his mana core, and started training with Reynold.

From time to time, Rey would drag Alucard who despite being 'Lazy' has very good stamina and endurance, amazing both Arthur and his father.

Back to his mana core, as he grows up, his senses are getting further enchanted, making it easier to do what he has been trying to achieve.

Alucard started the process of mana core creation with a 'Central Node,' by forming spirals to compress mana at its centre.

While it took him nearly 2-3 months to complete that, he just didn't focus on only the main node.

Besides, once the centre was enough to hold the leash, he started preparation for next necessary step.

All that was left was to stabilise the node, which happened in between within 2 weeks.

With addition to this, he began to create 'vortex nodes' or 'mana nodes', which will surround this central node.

However, this task needed to be done while constantly keeping the central node to be stabilised. It may sound like an easy task, but it wasn't.

Because once the 'mana nodes' were created, they would start to unstable the central node, by taking its compressed mana, also changing its position.

Alucard tried different ways to stop this happening, but most of the time he would have no other choice but simply disperse these nodes that cause such instability.

Nevertheless, after analysing and experimenting, he found one way to create the perfect vortex nodes.

------------------------

Vortex Nodes:

O

O O O

O O O O

O O O

O

------------------------

By creating multiple nodes together, that would surround the central node, and also attract each other mana, not eating the centre one.

It causes them to be in a chain reaction where they would revolve around the centre like planets, while trying to eat other nodes' mana.

These vortex nodes were at strategic points within the core, and were in Hexagonal shape-order.

These nodes would act as focal points for mana convergence, to further concentrate magical energy within the core.

And after seeing the results of Hexagonal shape structure has brought, Alucard refined his design for the Mana core.

The shape Alucard decided used a hexagonal close-packing arrangement, where each mana node is in close contact with six surrounding nodes.

This arrangement maximises the density of mana within the core.

--------------------------------------

Hexagonal Close-Packing (Outer Layer):

O - O - O

/ - O - O \

O - O - O - O

\ - O - O /

O - O - O

--------------------------------------

Upon successfully creating and stabilising this arrangement, Alucard gained somewhat little control over it.

By stopping revolution of these nodes and staying still he could further create more nodes that would be linked later with the centre.

Alucard can start the rotation he wishes when he finishes.

As they would be more stabilised that way, but when he concentrated on creation of nodes and adjustment of the positions, he would rather have them stop.

Once he created enough nodes, another task arose.

The arrangement of the mana nodes in a three-dimensional lattice structure within the incomplete-mana-core.

It was just initial stage for the creation of a detailed mana network core.

After noticing everything proceeded smoothly with the current structure.

Alucard has completed the lattice structure within 7-10 months, while continuing his progress on the core.

The final goal was to create 'Interlocking grids' between the nodes.

This 'integrate interlocking grids' within the structure, would enhance the stability of the core.

Also interlocking structure will prevent mana particles from dispersing unintentionally and provides structural reinforcement.

--------------------------------------

Interlocking Grids:

+---+---+

| O | O |

+---+---+---+---+

| O | O | O | O |

+---+---+---+---+

| O | O |

+---+---+

--------------------------------------

Having that being said, it was already a pre-planned idea he got.

After considering different scenarios, and in some case, if such a situation arises, when he was about to create frame for the core.

And along with it, to support these grids together, Alucard came up with the channels that would connect these nodes to have the control of mana.

It was done by introducing 'helical channels' within the mana nodes to channel mana in a controlled manner.

These helical pathways guide the compressed mana towards specific areas, allowing for precise applications of mana control.

That was the 'Initial Frame' of the core creation that also provides the 'Finale Frame'.

All these efforts – crafting nodes, establishing channels – were dedicated to a singular purpose.

It includes the frame structures each for a specific objective, including an additional framework for the network within the core.

This entire endeavour served a sole purpose – the creation of a response within this structure.

The response was a concept of 'Fractal Growth Patterns'.

However it doesn't mean these structures don't have other functions, they would be more useful for later on.

An mechanism that would hopefully work, after the outer layer was created, named 'Incorporate fractal growth patterns'.

'Incorporated' because this pattern is complete yet incomplete, because there's lot of parts of the core where places are empty.

However they are functional, as these patterns would mimic natural structures that were created beforehand to create more nodes and hellicals to fill those places.

The process of mimicking will continue, until the mana core is fully awakened.

Along with it, the fractals enhance the complexity of interactions between mana nodes, by facilitating the spontaneous formation of nodes and helix patterns, so that Alucard doesn't have to constantly manual intervention by himself.

This also provides a more robust and versatile mana core, along with additional features as it will facilitate repair or replacement of any flawed structure through forceful dismantling.

The final step involved creating a 'Multiple Helix Layering' that intertwined throughout the entire core space.

---------------------------

Triplet Helix Layering:

O O O

\ / \ /

\ / \ /

\ / \ /

O O

\ /

\ /

\ /

O

--------------------------------

Additionally, Alucard established 'Define dynamic compression zones' within the core, to support the layering, allowing enabling him to adjust compression rates based on specific mana requirements in different layers of the core.

This structural layering intertwines and interconnects with the core whole structure.

Multiple helix layering also enhances the core's stability, solidity, and redundancy, ensuring uninterrupted mana compression.

Alucard would create many layered structures that were small and incomplete but functional for fractal growth patterns, which would mimic and complete the remaining parts.

He has created three Main layers. Core, Middle and Outer layer.

Between these three lies many sub-layers that join with other structures and algorithms, providing a stronger bond between them.

With each layer's creation, more structures formed and multiplied.

As additional layers were established. The acceleration of this process will continue, creating a cycle that persisted until the entire network was complete.

And the time for Mana core Awakening will arise.

×××××

Alucard looks at the complex network he has created, he feels proud for what he has done, the daily hours he has spent for this moment.

The mana core appears as a radiant, spherical orb surrounded by a protective hexagonal pattern that pulshed with glow.

Beneath this outer layer, a spiral concentration layer guides mana toward the core.

'I should leave the house before the network completes.' He is on the verge of completing his mana core. But he is not in a hurry.

There's a little more time until the entire gap between the webbing of the network is filled.

'I don't want to do what Arthur did.' He still remembers the day when Arthur was about to awaken his mana core.

***

One year ago…

Crack Crack

Baaaaam

'Is he doing that again?' Alucard pondered, hearing the sound of tree breaking. He opened his eyes, looking at Alice who seemed annoyed.

"Oh no… Your father better not have broken down the tree. I'll be-"

"Did you wake up from that sound, baby?" Alice, with a surprise, looks over at the child who seems to have come out from his room, rubbing his eyes.

"Let's go out for a walk, see what your father has done. Also don't take him as a role model." Alice, in a kind and worried tone told Alucard while taking his hands.

"Take a breather outside?" She told him, taking his small hand, both of them walked out from the house.

Alucard nodded, while leaving he gave a side glance to Arthur, who seemingly closed his eyes and sat in the meditation position.

'It's about time?' While he couldn't look inside Arthurs mana core, he saw the mana particle in the air shaking violently.

If not for this change in the environmental mana around the house and more violent mana around Arthur, he wouldn't come out.

As Rey has broken many trees from the yard, so it's nothing new, but for the caution he walked out, turning his face to look at Alice.

'She will worry too much.' he thought, while from the result he can easily survive. But the drama that will happen after that, Alucard doesn't want to participate in it.

So taking the chance, both of them walked out, just to see Rey trying to stop the fall of the tree because of the punch, that poor tree has been broken from it's stem.

Alice smiled at Rey, as he was trying to stop the trunk from being completely broken. This looks funny.

"Rey, take this." She gave him a glass of water, while Rey just laughed awkwardly.

"Hahah—"

BOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!

A deafening explosion echoed from the spot where the wooden house once stood, sending debris scattering in all directions.

Reynold dashed toward his wife and son, with a serious expression. Alice held Alucard tightly in her embrace to protect him, and Rey appeared in front of her to protect her.

For a moment, they stayed still there, comprehending what was happening. Debride flew in their direction wounding Reynold.

"R..ey… Ar...t..." Alice in a frightened expression, slowly turning into a grim expression looks at Alucard, and then Rey, who sprinted toward the house.

"Art..."

And the rest is history.

Alucard gazed at his house, or whatever was left after that blast, caused by Arthur's mana core awakening.

He was deep in the thoughts, analysing the damage, and results.

More than half of the house was blasted into debris and the remaining was barely holding at the moment, with a little support.

The house was rebuilt later, with the help of some of Reynold and Alice's friends from their adventure time.

They appear to be close friends.

***

[Present]

"You have taken a nap already?" Alice smiled, seeing the rare sight of Alucard getting up at this time, he would sleep for a little longer.

But it didn't surprise her, Alucard seems to have quite a nose; he would wake up once the food is done. Well, she was done cooking dinner.

"Umm…" With a cute nod, he looked at the food she was about to place on the dining table.

"It's your favourite, now go and wash your hands." Understanding what he wants to ask, she replies.

"Okay~" Alucard nodded his head, to wash his hands.

The dining room exudes warmth, the soft glow of candles creating a cosy atmosphere as the Leywin family gathered around the table.

The food was giving an aroma of a delicious meal, filling the room with its smell. There were some vegetables and nicely cooked meat were served.

They started eating, while talking small subjects, until___

"Do you want to train with us, Alu?" Rey asked, while Arthur had started to train with him, and Alucard would just laze around the house.

"Yes." Alucard nodded his head, making Rey and Arthur smile.

Arthur because he has been teaching Alucard how to form the mana core, though it seems it wasn't working well.

Despite Arthur's already anticipating this, he felt disheartened.

This fueled his dedication to training, driven by the desire to protect his family and his brother when he became strong enough.

And Rey, being the energetic father he was, refused to let any chance slip for his son to slack off.

Rey since childhood has trained, and worked hard for being he who was here.

Though there's a lot of gold left for Alucard for his future, he doesn't want him to be weak and killed.

"Let the Alu be, Rey. He's yet to awaken," Alice interjected, she tries to hide but her concern for Alucard is evident. Her gaze lingered on Arthur, her shoulders slightly slumping.

"Sigh." she sighed. Art was too talented for his own good. Alice didn't want to discourage her other child after witnessing Arthur's exceptional abilities. She feared Alucard's withdrawal if he felt overwhelmed by expectations.

Alucard is already a quiet child. She feels if he got discouraged, he would close off all the feelings he has, and will speak less and less.

Alice's gaze flitting between her sons, a mixture of pride and concern etched on her expression.

"It's okay." Alucard reassured Alice. He gazed at her with innocent eyes, almost as if he sensed her concern. If they weren't in the middle of a meal, Alice would've happily pounced on him, playfully pinching those adorable chubby cheeks.

She put a smile on her pretty face, and they continued to eat their meal. If her son want to train, she won't stop him.

The father-son duo also felt happy to be with Alucard seeing that Alice did give her silent approval.

"But, you have to make sure that Alu doesn't get hurt. Art, keep an eye on him, okay?" Alice shot a stern look at Reynold, who almost choked on his food, then turned her gaze to Arthur, who repeatedly nodded his head.

...

After that, laughter erupted from the room, while they talked about the day they spent.

***

To be continued…

***

[Word Count]: 3059

***

Bless me with the shower of Power Stones

***

{Special A/N: I feel like this is worst chapter I have written (⁠ ⁠≧⁠Д⁠≦⁠). By this length description of Mana core network, skipping whole progress, but I won't regret doing this, not yet.

(⁠ノ⁠`⁠Д⁠´⁠)⁠ノ⁠彡⁠┻⁠━⁠┻}

(Anyway, here is the Concept behind the Mana Core). {image}

Incomplete-mana-core {Image}

[Side-Note; if the image isn't present here, check the Chapter comments]

Normal A/N; No, Arthur won't be brain dead. It's just that Alucard's position in the Leywin family is a bit different and special.

You see, after knowing Alucard, Arthur tries to protect his innocent brother and family.

Yes, he is a doting brother, along with Alice and Reynold, both are loving parents, so the treatment he is getting is already spoiled brat.

Also Arthur is doing what he did in Novel/Manhwa alongside spending time with Alucard.

You might already know Arthur was an orphan in the past, and I read the manhwa here he wanted a sibling(brother/sister), so him doting Alucard is nothing new.

Also Alucard's emotion display, he isn't showing it. You can read that I haven't specifically written from Author POV or 1st Person POV, that he is showing any emotions.

It's generally to avoid the awareness to read,

Image Alucard looking all emotionless and without any reaction, and Alice or other characters talking, and laughing, like any other parents do, it looks wierd to me.

That's all for Today.

Next chapter is gonna be, Yes, Mana core Awakening.

***

Let's meet next week...

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