The Lone Ascendant: Shadows Within the Fractured Realm

 Chapter 28: Trials of Strength and SecretsThe dawn broke gently over the horizon, casting a soft golden hue across the landscape. Kai awoke early, feeling rejuvenated. His mother, looking much healthier, greeted him with a warm smile as he stepped into the kitchen."Morning, Kai," she said, her voice filled with warmth. "I'm feeling much better today.""I'm glad to hear that, Mother," Kai replied, relief evident in his voice.Deciding to help with the day's chores, Kai announced, "Father, I'll go to the forest and cut some wood."His father, already at the door, turned with a grin. "Is that so? Let's see how much you've grown, then." He tossed Kai an axe. "No magic allowed."Kai caught the axe and smirked. "Just because you can only use summoning magic doesn't mean you can stop me from using my abilities."A flicker of irritation crossed his father's face. Summoning magic was often regarded differently, as it required vast amounts of mana and reliance on otherworldly beasts, lacking the physical enhancement other magic types provided.With a mocking tone, his father retorted, "If you can't accomplish anything with pure strength, you'll never find yourself a girlfriend."Kai felt a flush rise to his cheeks, memories of Cali swirling in his mind. His odd smile and sudden blush didn't go unnoticed.His father's eyes gleamed with mischief as he stepped closer and whispered, "Looks like my son has found a daughter-in-law for me."Kai's blush deepened, and in a flustered response, he blasted a light wave toward his father, who dodged with a knowing smile."I was right!" his father shouted gleefully."No, you're not!" Kai yelled back, laughing despite himself. His father, though slightly injured, ignored it and continued to tease Kai all the way home.When they returned with the firewood, Kai's mother looked up from her cooking, curiosity piqued. "What was all the fuss about?"Kai's father, grinning like a mischievous child, rushed forward. "Our boy has grown into a man and has stolen a woman's heart!"Kai's face burned crimson. "Cali is just my friend!" he blurted out, then quickly covered his mouth, but it was too late.Both parents burst into laughter, their teasing relentless. "Stop it!" Kai shouted, half-embarrassed, half-amused.The next morning, Kai prepared to leave. His mother, a touch of sadness in her eyes, asked, "Can't you stay a few more days, Kai?"He hugged her tightly. "I have classes to attend, Mother. I'll come back soon, I promise."As he moved toward the door, his father was waiting, a peculiar look on his face. Once his mother was out of earshot, his father wrapped an arm around Kai's neck and whispered, "Shh..." Handing him a small, weathered map, he added, "This is the map to the ancient ruins' interior. I thought you might find it useful."Kai's eyes widened in amazement. "Thanks, Papa.""Just don't tell your mother," his father added with a conspiratorial wink.Kai nodded, excitement bubbling within him. As he climbed onto his horse, ready to leave, his mother's voice rang out. "Looks like some people never change."Kai's father turned to her, feigning confusion. "What do you mean?"She smiled knowingly. "I meant you. I know you gave him the map."His father's eyes widened in surprise. "How do you know?""It's women's intuition," she said with a playful glint in her eye. "Silly men like you will never understand."Realizing he could never hide anything from her, he chuckled and admitted defeat. Kai, watching the exchange, felt a deep warmth for his parents. With a final wave, he urged his horse forward, the ancient map tucked safely in his pocket and a newfound determination in his heart.The road ahead was uncertain, filled with challenges and mysteries, but for now, Kai embraced the journey. He rode with a light heart, the laughter of his family echoing in his ears and the promise of adventure beckoning on the horizon.