THE MOMENT
"Sir Keys," The King nodded at the redheaded teenager with respect and a notable smile. "Your deeds were most impressive. You defeated the great dark lord in less than two months and delivered us unto peace. The kingdom, nay, the world, owe you a magnificent debt of gratitude. Thanks to your triumph, the royal mages have managed to find a way to open the door once more," he said. He'd delivered most of the speech from his throne; but, now the king stood and approached Keys.
"Because you defeated the evil, you may go back to your own world at your leisure. Or, you're more than welcome to stay and bolster our kingdom against future troubles. You would be assigned a royal post with all the benefits there of," he said.
"Thanks, but nah. I think I'll go home," Keys replied.
"Pardon? Truthfully?" the king was easily confused. " Why would you choose to go back to your primitive world? We've got magic!" with the proclamation, the king snapped his fingers and the mages posted let loose small explosions of color and light to make the point. Keys tilted his head.
"You think that because we don't have magic we're not advanced as you?" he asked. The nobles gathered around chuckled at the insolence. It wasn't quite as funny the first time Keys took a bold tone with the king; but, his accomplishments had earned him more than enough leeway from the court. And, the first time was for his very first audience in front of the king. He'd earned a reputation as being willing to speak his mind, even to authority. Even the king laughed; but, he was more amused by the comment.
"Your world is primitive, there is no debate," he said. "However, to be clear, it is not due to lack of magic. You spent most of your time in my kingdom wreaking havoc on the Dark Lord's forces, and it hasn't been long at all. I do not blame you for your ignorance in the matter; but, regardless of your opinion, it is a truth."
"Well, let's hear it," Keys nodded at the portly figure. The king was rotund, bald, and clean shaven.
"My mages searched dozens of worlds for a hero, and you were the one chosen. Did the criteria of the choice never cross your mind?" he asked.
"I just assumed I was 'the chosen one'," Keys shrugged. The king nodded and chuckled.
"Yes! But, how were you chosen? It wasn't magical chance. You were chosen because your world is most similar to ours, except for a few key details," he said.
"Like, we don't have magic?" Keys asked.
"You don't have magic... yet," he king replied. "All the technology you're proud of. Cellular phones, airplanes, even the internet... it's all well-documented ancient history here," he chuckled. "Magic comes after you master technology. And, of course, there is the state of your world's politics," he added with a beaming smile. "I think 'primitive' is the right word."
"Oh... huh...," Keys replied. "Alright, fair point. Still, yeah," he nodded. "I wanna go back, I miss someone."
"The summoned hero has made his decision, and it is not for me to stop him," the king nodded. "I would invite you to join us for one final night of celebration; however, you may leave whenever you wish. Even now, should you desire. I'm sure the person you miss is eagerly awaiting your return. Simply make your way to the tower of the royal mages."
"Thanks," Keys nodded. "I'll do that now," he chuckled and stepped closer to whisper a secret to the king. "Honestly, I have no idea who it is, and I'm hoping I'll find out. The only thing I know for sure is they're not here," he said.
"I wish you luck," the king nodded. "May your path remain clear as crystal, and may your heart guide you to the truth you seek."