The Extra's Reincarnation

Headmaster Bourne turned to face Julian and Ezekiel, a warm smile on his face.

"Well boys, that concludes our tour of Aethel Academy. I hope it has given you a taste of the wonders and opportunities that await you here."

"It was amazing! I can’t wait to start learning magic and become a powerful mage!"

Hoho…

"That’s if you pass the admission exams, Ezekiel. remember your theory has to be as good as your practical ability."

"I understand…" Ezekiel looked like he lost a bit of hope after hearing the words ’theory’.

Julian, on the other hand, remained reserved.

While the academy was undeniably impressive, he still felt out of place among all the talk of magic and potential. It was a world he had never imagined himself being a part of.

Headmaster Bourne seemed to sense Julian’s unease. He placed a gentle hand on the boy’s shoulder.

"Julian, I know this may all seem overwhelming right now. But I want you to know that Aethel Academy is a place for everyone, regardless of background or innate magical ability. We are here to nurture and guide young minds like yours, to help you unlock your true potential."

Julian met the headmaster’s gaze, seeing the sincerity in his eyes. He managed a small nod.

"Thank you, Headmaster Bourne. I appreciate the talk."

Kiera stepped forward alongside Bourne and gave Julian a warm smile.

"I look forward to seeing you, Ezekiel, at the admissions exams in a few years and Julian, I hope you can make up your mind before the time comes. Until then, keep exploring your magical abilities and never stop learning."

After exchanging final handshakes and farewells, Julian and Ezekiel were escorted out of the academy gates by Nivel.

From the Headmasters Office, Kiera and Bourne watched them leave.

"Kiera..."

"Yes, Headmaster?"

"After I resign as Headmaster, I plan to return to my roots as a professor."

"Why is that?"

"Oh, no particular reason. I just can’t wait for the future."

***

[Julians POV]

Leaving Aethel Academy, I couldn’t shake off the feeling of from everything that we saw on the tour.

I had expected a certain level of luxury, but even then, I was blown away by what I saw when I first entered through the gates.

As we strolled through the bustling streets of Aurean City, Ezekiel chattered away about all the things he wanted to learn. It struck me as strange that he was so childish now, considering how serious he’d be at Aethel Academy 10 years from now.

In the novel, he was portrayed as such, but as a kid, he seemed carefree and playful.

I nodded along to Ezekiel’s enthusiastic ramblings, even if I didn’t understand what he was saying, because my mind was still trying to process everything that had happened.

Our visit to Aethel Academy had given me a glimpse into a world I had never imagined being part of.

The casual displays of magic, the magic knowledge housed in its halls, the diverse mix of students from all walks of life - it was overwhelming and exhilarating all at once.

Nivel led us through the market district, then turned to me and announced, "We’re going to meet your mother now, Julian."

"Finally," I replied with relief.

Those were the words I wanted to hear. After spending four days with Ezekiel and Nivel, I couldn’t help but miss my mother. I missed her cooking and just having her around to take care of me with no expectations or demands.

But that’s not to say I didn’t enjoy my time with Ezekiel and Nivel. We had some great moments together on this trip, and I have no regrets about coming here.

We weaved our way through the crowded streets, the smells of spices and sizzling meats filling the air. Merchants hawked their wares, their voices rising above the general hubbub.

After a few more turns, we arrived at a small bakery shop where a woman with long blonde hair stood.

WHOOOSH...

"That energy..."

The trace of mana brushed against my eyes and as I got a clearer look, I could recognise the appearance of her brown coat over shadowing her maid’s dress.

"Mom!" I called out, a wide grin spreading across my face.

The woman turned, her emerald eyes lighting up with joy as she spotted me.

She rushed forward with her arms outstretched.

"Julian!"

She enveloped me in a tight hug, the warmth of her embrace chasing away all the weariness of the past few days.

I buried my face in her shoulder, breathing in the familiar scent of vanilla and cinnamon that always clung to her clothes.

"I missed you so much," I mumbled, my voice muffled by her coat.

"I missed you too, sweetheart,"

She pulled back slightly to look at me, her hands cupping my face.

"Let me look at you. Have you been eating well? Sleeping enough?"

I laughed, squirming out of her grasp. "I’m fine, Mom. Mr. Nivel and Ezekiel took good care of me."

At the mention of their names, my mother looked up, noticing Ezekiel waving at her along with Nivel.

Her eyes widened in recognition.

"Nivel," she said warmly, straightening up to greet him.

"Thank you so much for looking after Julian. I hope he wasn’t too much trouble."

Nivel chuckled, shaking his head.

"Not at all, Erica. Julian was a pleasure to have around. He and Ezekiel got along splendidly."

My mother smiled at that, giving me an affectionate squeeze.

"I’m glad to hear it. Julian can be quite the handful sometimes."

I pouted at her teasing, but couldn’t help the warmth that spread through my chest. It felt good to be back with my mom, to feel her love and care surrounding me once more.

Ezekiel bounded up to us, his eyes shining with excitement.

"Ms. Erica! You won’t believe where we just came from! Nivel took us on a tour of Aethel Academy!"

My mother’s eyebrows shot up in surprise.

"Aethel Academy? My, that’s quite the opportunity. What did you think of it, Julian?"