Kael was lying on the soft sand, staring out at the endless horizon.
Kael (thinking): There will be a day when I leave this island… to explore the vast ocean and the whole world beyond it. I'm sure it's way bigger than I can even imagine.
He jumped up and ran into the house, where his mom sat quietly by the hearth.
Kael: Mom! I'm going to set off for the ocean one day!
Mom: Oh… that's wonderful, dear. But listen—no one leaves this island once they set foot here.
Kael: Why not?
Mom: Because a sea dragon surrounds this island.
Kael: Sea dragon?
Mom: It's huge… it attacks any ship that tries to pass.
Kael (excited, almost bouncing): Then all I have to do is beat the heck out of it!
Mom (stern, worried): Shh… or its wrath could strike the whole island.
Kael: I don't care! I'm way stronger than some sea dragon!
Mom's expression hardened, her eyes sharp.
Mom: Go to your room.
Kael: Why!?
Mom: Don't argue! Take some rest.
Kael gave a slight nod and trudged to his bed.
Kael (thinking as he lay down): I'm just… way stronger than that sea dragon, or whatever. Why is Mom so scared?!
Sleep came slowly, and soon he found himself in a dream, standing in a vast, open ocean. A familiar figure appeared beside him—his father, once a legendary pirate.
Kael: Dad? Where are you?!
Dad (smiling, calm): Just having a rest… Look, Kael. Those are the people—the pirates.
Kael: Just like you?!
Dad: Yes… but they kill, steal, and oppress the weak.
Kael: No way…
Dad: That's why I need you to become a pirate too. But one who's strong, brave… and kind. Help people, protect them.
Kael: But the navy is here…
Dad: You'll understand with time. Keep your heart and your will strong.
Kael nodded, absorbing every word. Then the dream faded, and he woke up with a start, the morning sun spilling across his bed.