Another Try

"There, there, little egg."

Rey caressed the small object in his hand, whispering to it as he watched Ater approach him.

"You better grow to be big and strong so you can prove your big bro Ater wrong, okay?"

Ater chuckled as he heard Rey say this. He had an air of ease around him, nearly shrugging aside all the events that had transpired.

The Magic Circle was long gone, and since the task was complete, it was time to return home.

"Shall we leave now, Master?" Ater asked with a sparkling smile on his face.

"No."

"E-eh…?"

Ater's surprise at his Master's words caused his handsome and calm face to display hints of nervousness.

Somehow, he already knew what was on Rey's mind.

"I'm going to try again!" Rey declared, snorting out steam from his nose.

"B-but Master… you said you'd try one at a time."