Recovery and reflection

Once the monster was defeated, calm gradually returned to the battlefield. Dust slowly settled to the ground, and the villagers barely realized they had managed to save their village. Kito rushed to his parents, worried for their health.

Kaliana and Darius were severely injured, but still alive. They were given first aid by other villagers with healing magic skills. Kito supported them as best he could, trying to reassure and comfort them.

As he helped his parents, a notification suddenly appeared before Kito:

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Quest successful: Defend the village

Rewards:

New magical affinity: Fire

Experience: 15,000 exp (current level: 20)

Random item: Phoenix Bracelet (S)

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Kito immediately felt the additional magical affinity manifest within him, mingling with his existing affinities. This new affinity, that of fire, would allow him to learn and master powerful destructive magics.

His experience gain allowed him to reach level 20, which was two levels at once, it was huge! He knew he still had much to learn, but he was on the right path to becoming a powerful warrior and mage.

As for the random item, Kito discovered to his astonishment that it was a mysterious bracelet adorned with sparkling gems and engraved with unknown runes. He could feel a powerful energy emanating from it, but he couldn't determine its exact powers. He decided to wear it, hoping its powers would reveal themselves over time. He didn't want to take the time to examine it with his magical vision either, there were too many people around him.

Over the hours, the village slowly recovered from the attack. The injured were healed, and material damage began to be repaired. The villagers gathered to discuss the events, trying to understand why these monsters had attacked and how they could prepare for future threats.

Kito conversed with his grandfather, Nerio, who seemed strangely calm and serene despite the circumstances. They discussed the battle and what they had learned about themselves and the other villagers. Nerio explained that he had always known that Kito had incredible potential, and he was happy to see that his grandson finally had the opportunity to prove it.

Around them, some villagers looked at Kito with admiration and surprise. They were amazed by the strength he had shown against the winged creature and the first waves, and some even offered to train him to further develop his skills. Kito, flattered by their attention, hesitated for a moment.

Nerio, sensing his grandson's turmoil, intervened wisely: "It's true that you demonstrated great strength today, Kito. But I think it's important for you to take the time to reflect on what you really want for your future. Battles are not an end in themselves, and there's still so much you could learn and discover beyond the battlefields."

Night fell on the village, and the villagers organized a large banquet to celebrate their victory. They gathered around a fire, eating and laughing, sharing their tales of the battle.

Kito, while joining in the festivities, thought seriously about what he wanted for his future. He knew that important conversations awaited him.

He decided to start with Regi, the village blacksmith, who had shown impressive strength and determination during the fight against the Spiny Grizzly.

Approaching Regi, Kito timidly asked: "Regi, how did you acquire such strength?"

Regi gave him a warm smile and replied: "Kito, strength comes from experience and hard work. I've spent years forging weapons and armor, and it has given me the strength needed to wield them effectively."

Kito, intrigued, asked if he could learn more about forging and creating weapons and armor. Regi nodded enthusiastically, explaining that he would be happy to help Kito improve his equipment and teach him the art of forging if he chose this path.

After a long exchange with the blacksmith, Kito thanked Regi and headed towards the banquet.

As Kito disengaged from the conversation with Regi, the mysterious woman who had used dark magic during the battle chose that moment to suddenly approach him. She walked up confidently and stood in front of Kito.

"Kito, right?" she asked in a bewitching voice.

Surprised, Kito nodded and replied, "Yes, that's me. And you are?"

"My name is Myria. I wanted to talk to you about your potential. I sensed your connection with dark magic during our fight."

Kito listened attentively, intrigued and somewhat uneasy. He didn't know how to react to this revelation, but he was curious to learn more about this mysterious magic and the woman standing before him. And although he was only 8 years old, certain interests from his past were still present. This beautiful woman, with very generous curves, made him blush. Thankfully, the night hid the color of his face.

Myria stared intently at him before continuing, "I can help you master this power if you wish. Join me tomorrow evening at the edge of the forest, and we will begin your initiation."

Kito hesitated, unsure whether he should accept this sudden offer. He furrowed his brow and thought about the potential consequences. Seeing his hesitation, Myria added with a mysterious smile, "I understand your doubts. I will speak with your grandfather, who is wise and kind. I'm sure he will guide you and make you accept my offer."

Kito, surprised and disconcerted by the mention of his grandfather, searched for words to respond. But before he could say anything, Myria continued, "Don't be afraid, Kito. If you decide to come tomorrow evening to the edge of the forest, I'll be waiting for you. If you choose not to come, I'll come to find you."

With that, she gave him one last piercing look, followed by a wink, and disappeared into the crowd, leaving Kito thoughtful, his thoughts swirling in his mind, as he tried to determine the best path to follow.

As the evening slowly came to an end, he decided to go home. Opening the door, he saw light inside the house, and his parents sitting around the table, seemingly waiting for him. The atmosphere appeared tense. Only his grandfather, as usual, had a smile on his face.