Bell the white core mage

A promise

Bell and Alfia sat atop the hill with the tree on top. Their backs rested against it as they watched the sunset. The graves of Bell's parents sat next to them, remaining silent.

Regis laid down next to the two. Where Bell went, he followed.

The ten-year-old boy rested his head on his aunt's lap. The woman slowly moving her fingers through his hair.

"Alfia, how come I'm not sick like you and my mom?" Bell asked.

"I'm not sure, Bell. But if I had to guess, it was that your mother performed a miracle." Alfia answered.

"How did she do that? Was that her magic?"

Alfia chuckled. "No, Bell, your mother had nothing like that. But I believe she did something that allowed you to be born without our sickness."

"Or it was your mana core. But that's thinking practically, and Alfia doesn't like to do that." Regis added.

Bell let out a tiny laugh as Alfia glared at the sleeping canine. Regis paid her no mind, however, knowing he succeeded in annoying her.

Alfia just clicked her tongue and returned her gaze back to Bell. The boy still laid his head on her lap as the sun sank deeper behind the mountains.

She could tell by the look in his eyes that something was troubling him.

"What's wrong, Bell?" Alfia asked.

Bell was silent for a minute as he lifted his head up. "You're sick, and someday you won't be here. That makes me sad."

Alfia gave him a warm smile as she pulled him into her arms. Bell laid his head against her shoulder.

"Bell death is a part of everything in life. One day, I will die, and while yes, it will make you sad, just know I will always love you, and nothing will ever change that."

Bell was silent for a moment as Alfia looked at him. Then his eyes lit up like he just had the greatest idea in the world.

"Then I can cure you!"

Alfia felt her heart hurt. He looked so determined, and it broke her heart knowing there was no cure.

"Bell, sweetie, there's no cure." Alfia reminded him.

"It just hasn't been found yet. But I don't need that. I can use Aether; I just need to figure out how."

"Bell-

"No, Grandpa always says heroes save people. I'm gonna save you, Alfia, I promise."

Alfia remained silent, hearing Bell's decree. Her heart didn't fill with hope as she had long since given it up. But she just couldn't bring herself to put him down.

Not when he looked at her like that. Eyes full of love and determination. The desire to heal her and keep her safe.

No, Alfia couldn't crush that spirit of his with the truth. So she did the only thing she could do.

Letting out a small laugh, she spoke. "So foolish."

She then leaned down and kissed his forehead. This caused Bell to simmer down, and he and Alfia watched as the sun went behind the mountain, causing night to arrive.

Bell failed in the end.
.
.
.
.

Bell's eyes shot open, and he quickly sat up. The sun had barely risen, and Bell knew he wasn't going back to sleep.

He let out a tired sigh and placed his hands on his forehead. He sniffled and let out another sigh.

"Bad dream?" Regis asked.