Kael had just turned two years old, and despite his young age, his bright eyes already showed a rare clarity. In the warm household of their village at the heart of Éthera, he spent his days observing, imitating, and above all, trying to understand. His mother, Lirien, with her long soft chestnut hair and honey-colored eyes, was the very image of maternal tenderness. Her round face and cheeks, always a little rosy, reflected the warmth she had for her children. Deren, his father, tall and sturdy, sported a finely trimmed beard and deep blue eyes that hinted at a wisdom mixed with an impressive strength of character.
Elaia, his older sister aged ten, was not just any village child: she was a prodigy, a rising star whose exploits in elemental magic were known far beyond the borders of Éthera. But even more, Elaia had inherited a warrior's spirit that allowed her to rival — and even surpass — their father, once a prodigy and a feared fighter in his generation.
That morning, the family was busy with an important project: Elaia's imminent departure for the Ezperian Academy, the most prestigious magical institution in the world of Aeloria. This long-awaited journey would lead them out of the peaceful lands of Éthera toward the kingdom's capital, a bustling place full of life, magic, and mysteries.
In the kitchen, Lirien carefully prepared a basket filled with provisions, while Deren checked the cart that would take them to the capital. Curious, Kael followed their every move, his little mind already buzzing.
"Will you be good during the trip, Kael?" Lirien asked, gently stroking his cheek.
The toddler nodded, determined not to be a burden to his parents. But inside, a flood of thoughts clashed, mixing the boredom of the upcoming journey with his impatience to learn.
"Two years old, and already making plans to become a great magician… Or at least not to spill all of mom's provisions," he thought with a sly little smile.
A little later, the family gathered in the village square, where the market was in full swing. Colorful stalls spread out under the sun, offering all sorts of items, magical ingredients, and maps. It was the perfect opportunity for Deren to buy the map that would help them navigate the vast world of Aeloria.
Holding Elaia's hand, Kael looked around. "Is all this for our trip?" he asked.
Elaia smiled, proud to play the role of the expert big sister. "Yes. The road to the capital is long, and we need to be ready for anything."
While Deren negotiated with a merchant, a nearby conversation caught their attention. Several villagers were talking about the famous Millennial War, an ancient conflict between the kingdoms of Aeloria that had left scars still visible today.
"You know, Kael," Elaia explained, "each kingdom is tied to a magical affinity. There are those of Fire, Water, Earth, Wind… and some rarer ones. But they all went through that terrible war."
Intrigued, Kael listened to the village elders' stories, describing how the kingdoms had fought, then reached a fragile truce. Questions flew around, everyone trying to understand how those past events could still shape their present.
But time was passing, and soon it was time to think about leaving.
Elaia then suggested showing their parents a combat training session. Before them, she displayed impressive mastery, blending elemental magic with martial techniques. Deren, proud but humble, acknowledged his daughter's superiority.
"You've grown well, Elaia. Stronger than I was at your age," he admitted with a rare smile.
Kael watched, amazed, promising himself that one day he too would become as powerful.