Chapter 19: Blending Into the Forest
Guided by the wizard, Leon saw the center of the magic circle. There, an apple-shaped little creature with slender limbs appeared—it was the same kind he had seen in the Community Center.
Unlike the one in the Community Center, this little fellow made a clear, high-pitched sound upon being summoned. The distinct syllables carried a strange rhythm, yet bore no resemblance to any known language.
“Is that the same one you saw in the old Community Center?” The wizard turned to Leon.
“Yes.” Leon nodded. He already knew what this thing was, but he had to play along with the storyline—because sticking to the script had its advantages.
“They call themselves Junimos, a type of spirit. But for some reason, they refuse to speak to me.” The wizard glanced down at the little apple—or rather, the Junimo—then looked up at Leon with a somewhat embarrassed expression.
“So I have no idea why they moved into the old Community Center. But I can tell you this—they’re harmless. You don’t need to be afraid of them.”
“I’m not afraid. Just curious,” Leon replied.
“Hmm… it seems you’ve already accepted the existence of supernatural forces, just like when you saw me casting spells. You are quite a special child.” The wizard studied Leon closely.
“If I didn’t know you lacked the desire to seek out magical secrets, I might think you’d make a fine successor. But I’m sorry—you’re not suited for this path. And your grandfather would never let you choose it.”