Side Story 4.80 - Magic & Mayhem

Jhoanna’s POV

Morning sunlight streamed through the trees, casting golden patches on the grass where Johanis stood with his hands stretched out. My eight-year-old son's brow was furrowed in concentration, his tiny lips moving as he chanted under his breath. In front of him, a small ball of violet light hovered in the air, flickering like a candle.

“That’s it,” I encouraged, watching closely. “Keep your focus steady.”

To his side, Rio stood with his arms crossed, observing with skeptical amusement. “Magic is so weird.”

I shot him a glance. “You say that every time.”

“And every time, it remains true,” Rio muttered. “No claws, no fangs, just floating lights and strange voices—”

Johanis, never one to let a remark slide, turned his head slightly. “Would you