Back to reality

Upon stepping through the portal created by Myria, Kito and Lysar found themselves instantly back in their world. The familiar colors and sounds of their village surrounded them, making the time spent in the other dimension seem like a distant dream.

Realizing she needed to be discreet, Lysar quickly returned to the ring Kito wore. With Lysar safely tucked away, Kito made his way home, his heart pounding with apprehension.

As he pushed open the front door, Kito was warmly greeted by his family. His father, Darius, who still appeared as strong as ever, stepped forward and lifted him into his arms for a tight embrace.

"My boy, how we've missed you!" Darius exclaimed.

His mother, Kaliana, a slender and elegant woman, stood near the window, a brilliant smile on her lips. She approached Kito with tears in her eyes and hugged him tightly.

"Kito, my son, I am so relieved to see you again!" she said emotionally.

His grandfather, Nerio, stood by the fireplace, leaning on his cane. "Ah, there's our adventurer!" he cried out, grinning mischievously. "So, have you finally become strong?"

In the days that followed, Kito spent long hours talking with his family. He shared his adventures, telling them what Myria had taught him, what they had done, and the new skills he had gained. His family listened attentively, admiring the progress he had made and the challenges he had overcome. They were proud of him but also concerned about what awaited him.

One evening, as the family gathered around the dinner table, Darius spoke up and announced to Kito that he would soon be turning 10. The news, although expected, still caught him by surprise.

Darius explained with a touch of solemnity in his voice, "Kito, you know, in our family, reaching the age of 10 is a very important rite of passage for those who possess magical talents. At this age, one must leave home to attend a magic school. There, you can deepen your knowledge and develop your skills."

Kito looked up from his plate and asked, "But am I not a bit too young for that? Why not later?"

His grandfather, Nerio, took over and explained, "The reason we wait until 10 is because that's when magical powers are sufficiently developed to be trained effectively. Before this age, it would be too difficult to learn to master them. However, if we wait too long, the powers could become uncontrollable and dangerous for the mage and those around them. Well, you are a bit different, so you will probably be a little ahead, but there will be very influential personalities who are likely as advanced as you."

Kito nodded, seeming to understand. Kalina placed her hand on her son's shoulder and said softly, "Don't worry, Kito. We will always be here for you, no matter the distance. And think of all that you will be able to learn there, all the people you will meet, and the adventures you will have."

Kito smiled shyly and nodded. "I guess that's true. I'll have the chance to make new friends and learn even more about magic."

Wanting to reassure his son, Darius added, "Kito, the magic school is an incredible place. I studied there myself, as did your mother and grandfather. We learned to master our powers, to use them to help others, and to protect our world. And now, it's your turn to continue this tradition."

The conversation continued around the table, with the family sharing anecdotes and memories of their own experiences at the magic school. Kito's heart warmed at the thought of following in his parents' and grandfather's footsteps, though apprehension still lingered within him.

Kito left the dinner table, his heart heavy from the conversation they had just had. He slowly climbed the stairs to his bedroom, trying to process all the information and imagine what his life would be like away from his family.

As he pushed open the door to his room, he was greeted by Lysar, his baby dragon, who was lying on his bed. Her scales shimmered in the dim light of the room and her eyes sparkled with curiosity. Mentally, she asked him, "So, what's going on?"

Kito sat down on his bed and gently stroked her scales. "I've learned that I'll have to leave home to attend a magic school," he explained. "I'll be turning 10 soon, and at that age, I need to start my training as a mage."

Lysar sat up and coiled around Kito's shoulder, resting her head on his. "Well, I suppose that means new adventures! What do we need to pack?"

Kito smiled slightly and replied, "That's a good question. I guess we should start with the basics: clothes, shoes, maybe some magic books and ingredients for potions. And of course, I couldn't leave without you."

Lysar nodded enthusiastically. "I'm sure we can find a way to get me into that magic school. After all, what mage wouldn't want a dragon by their side?"

Kito laughed at the idea, and the two spent the evening discussing the things they should bring and the adventures they could have together. Despite the uncertainties and challenges that awaited them, Kito and Lysar were convinced they could face whatever lay ahead, as long as they were together.

He still thought about the famous magic school. Until now, he hadn't interacted with any other children and, in fact, very few people. Perhaps it was time to start appreciating the world in its entirety and discovering new things. Little by little, this new perspective excited him and made him eager to leave.

Even though he felt he hadn't been able to spend much time with his family over the past few years, he knew he had to. Perhaps he would have opportunities later to spend time with his family again.

With his thoughts still in his head, the comfort of his bed made him fall into a deep sleep quickly, lulled by all the new possibilities that were opening up to him.