I awoke immediately after seeing the magic escape my hands, bumping my head on the low ceiling above my bed.
Groaning quietly, I listened. All I heard was snoring. Confirming that I was the only one awake, I snuck out of bed and tippy-toed towards the study. Although he didn't want us to know, our father was a secret operative working undercover on behalf of the Grand Justice Institution of Magic, discovering creatures of demonic origins hiding in the general public and tracking them for elimination.
He wanted us to think he was an ordinary person, and that magic did not exit. Why? To protect us, of course. According to the books in Dad's study that I have read, demonic beasts of three star level and below often target young mages for eating, as they are a tasty supplement for those creatures of ill intent.
Looking out the window, I noticed a slight change in the darkness. A shadow flitted about. For a moment, I panicked. Could it be a demon? No, I shook my head, and pinched myself to help me wake up and be alert. Staring out the window intently, I could make head and tail of the approaching shadow, especially tail, a very bushy tail. Bonkers! Bonkers, my familiar, as a 'pet' that Dad gave me for my fourth birthday, he was nearly four years old now. Three years ago, I read a book in Dad's study about subduing animals and taming them. It mentioned how to communicate with pets telepathically whilst holding them.
Opening the window to let Bonkers in, I was smacked in the face as he directly landed on my head. Quickly closing the window and locking it, I communicated with Bonkers.
Bonkers, what happened? Why are you back so late?
BONKERS: Oi, human, aren't you forgetting? I had to go out of my way to avoid being detected by those demons that are targeting your father.
Ahh, I see, thanks for the info, Bonkers. I really appreciate it. NOT! Despite those demons you are never this late! Spit out the truth!
BONKERS: Alright, alright, I found a magic artifact and lost track of time studying it. Here it is…
Bonkers spat out the treasure reluctantly.
A cool jade token with a sword and a pen on it appeared before me.
Bonkers, this is the invitation talisman for the Grand Academy that my Dad's textbooks are from! Amazing find! Good Bonkers! Very good!
Bonkers tutted, clearly displeased that some of it's treasures were confiscated. Clearly, it did not intend to spit out the rest of the loot, as it had other plans in mind for it.