HOME COMING

Kael sat in the living room surrounded by his parents. Their eyes were filled with a mix of curiosity and concern. They bombarded him with questions about his disappearance, his newfound abilities, and his journey in the Synthera realm. Kael did his best to answer their inquiries, excitement and weariness blending in his voice.

"It's been an incredible journey, Mom, Dad," Kael said, a hint of pride in his voice. "I've awakened my powers, and I'm finally ready to go to the Equilibrium Hall to train as a Synthera Guardian." His parents exchanged astonished glances. "You've awakened? That's amazing!" his father exclaimed, a sense of pride shining in his eyes. "But what about your disappearance? We were worried sick!"

Kael hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to explain his absence. "I'm sorry for causing you both worry," he said sincerely. "There were unforeseen circumstances, but I assure you, I'm safe now. And I have something to show you." With a focused expression, Kael summoned his Spirit Beast, Pegaspore. The majestic creature materialized before them, emanating a powerful and intimidating energy that surpassed their own Spirit Beasts, a kangrat and a mantis. Kael's parents were taken aback, their eyes widening in astonishment. "Wh-where did this magnificent creature come from?" his mother stammered, her voice filled with awe.

"I encountered Pegaspore during my journey," Kael explained. "We formed a bond, and now, he is my loyal companion and Spirit Beast." His parents could hardly contain their amazement. The questions kept pouring in, and Kael found himself caught in a whirlwind of scrutiny and praise for nearly three hours. Finally, he managed to slip away to his room, feeling exhausted from the intense interrogation. Collapsing onto his bed, he immediately fell into a deep sleep. Meanwhile, Lyra sat at the table, her mother Saffron sitting in front of her. Lyra recounted the events to Saffron, explaining their incredible endeavors.

Saffron listened intently, her eyes widening with every word, after Lyra was done recounting, she apologized as she claimed that she couldn't protect lyra. "Mom, you don't have to apologize," Lyra interrupted, her voice filled with warmth. "You're the only mother I could ever ask for, and I'm proud of you. You've always done your best." Tears welled up in Saffron's eyes as she embraced her daughter. "Thank you, my dear," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion.

Lyra then asked Saffron to close her eyes, and with reluctance, Saffron obeyed. She could feel the subtle movement of Synthera in the air around her. As she opened her eyes, she was met with a breathtaking sight. Lyra stood atop a lion-like Spirit Beast, its scales shimmering and its body translucent. Saffron's face mirrored her confusion for a few seconds until her brain registered what was happening. Overwhelmed with joy, Saffron embraced Lyra and her Spirit Beast, tears streaming down their faces. They held each other tightly, their emotions pouring out. After a long while, they settled down, and Saffron realized that Lyra had fallen asleep in her arms.

Gently, Saffron carried her mother to her room, tucking her into bed with a tender smile. As the days passed, Kael and Lyra slept soundly, their bodies healing and their scales fully developed during their rest. Their parents, although slightly concerned, checked on them regularly, believing their scales were merely a result of their Spirit Beasts' influence. When Kael finally woke up, he sat up in bed, marveling at the resplendent scales that adorned his body. He could feel his connection to Synthera stronger than ever, as if he was absorbing its energy effortlessly. The same phenomenon had occurred with Lyra. Disabling their scales, Kael and Lyra rose to their feet and made their way to the kitchen. Kael's stomach growled loudly, reminding him of his increased hunger. Being an awakened being meant having the ability to digest more food in a shorter amount of time.

Entering the kitchen, Kael checked the wall clock. It was around 11 am. He prepared a hearty meal for himself, indulging in his favorite dishes and satisfying his voracious appetite. The flavors danced on his tongue as he relished each bite. After his satisfying meal, Kael headed to the bathroom for a refreshing shower. The warm water cascaded down his body, rejuvenating his senses and washing away the fatigue of his slumber. As he stepped out, he picked up his watch and dialed Lyra's number.

"Hey, Lyra," Kael greeted as she answered the call. "I'm finally awake. We need to talk."

Lyra's voice filled with excitement. "I've been thinking the same thing, Kael. Let's meet at the café in the western part of the stronghold. I'll see you there." Agreeing to the plan, Kael hung up and swiftly got ready. He left his house and made his way to the café, the anticipation of their reunion fueling his steps. Simultaneously, Lyra booked a ride from her house, her heart fluttering with excitement.

Kael arrived at the café, his senses tingling with anticipation. He found a cozy spot by the window and settled in, observing the bustling activity outside. Moments later, Lyra entered the café, her eyes lighting up when she spotted Kael. "Kael!" Lyra exclaimed, rushing over to him. They embraced tightly, a mixture of relief and excitement washing over them. The café buzzed with conversation as they sat down, ready to delve into their conversation.

"Your scales look even more radiant now," Lyra remarked, marveling at the intricate patterns adorning Kael's skin as Kael had released his scales for a moment. Kael nodded, a sense of pride evident in his eyes. "It's incredible. I can feel the Synthera energy flowing through me, and my connection to Pegaspore has deepened." Lyra's face beamed with happiness. "I've experienced the same. It's as if our awakening has unlocked a new level of power within us." As they sipped their drinks, Kael couldn't help but remember their long slumber. "Lyra, do you realize we slept for three whole days?"

Lyra chuckled softly. "Yes, it was a necessary rest to fully heal and integrate our awakened abilities. But now, we're stronger than ever." Kael leaned closer, his voice filled with determination. "So, what's our next course of action, Lyra? We have the responsibility to protect the balance of Synthera and defend those who cannot defend themselves."

Lyra's eyes gleamed with resolve. "You're right, Kael. I think we can now go the Equilibrium Hall, where we can hone our skills and learn from experienced Guardians."

They exchanged a determined glance, their path clear before them. They would train relentlessly, unlocking the depths of their power and harnessing their unique bond with their Spirit Beasts.

As they finished their conversation, Kael paid the bill, and they made their way back to their respective homes. The journey back was filled with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement, each step bringing them closer to their destined path. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months as Kael and Lyra immersed themselves in their training. As it was almost the end of the year Kael and lyra had to wait for the next year to enroll into the Equilibrium Hall.