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Chapter 4 - The Arrival of the Master and Wind Mage

The midday sun rose like a scepter of fire over the fields surrounding the Ashfield mansion, filtering its light through the tall palace windows that protected the young heir. In the spacious backyard, the echoes of spells rang out strongly each time Reinhard Ashfield, now nearly five years old, extended his small hands to release bursts of wind and water with enviable naturalness.

The currents swirled around him as if obeying a miniature god, creating a charming yet dangerous spectacle. His mana flow, classified as Level 3 Elite Blue, manifested with an intensity that made it clear that this child was no ordinary boy.

Energy sprang from his magical core with striking fluidity, without even needing to draw symbols in the air or verbalize incantations. With just thought, the spells were born. However, having a gift and great talent did not guarantee immunity from exhaustion.

After several gusts of wind that raised dust and splashed the nearby fountain, Reinhard fell to his knees, panting.

—This is… very exhausting… —he whispered as he collapsed onto the damp grass—, but my magic has improved a lot…

His ragged breathing gave rhythm to his reflection. A mixture of fatigue and pride appeared on his face, as if at that very moment he had crossed an invisible border into a new mastery of his own soul.

In the afternoon, now clean and dressed in a fine linen shirt and dark pants, Reinhard sat before his academic tutor, an elderly man with a monotone voice and a strict attitude. The lessons covered the history of the six main kingdoms and the nine continents, mana mathematics, and the laws of great magical treaties. Even the histories of many past events and occurrences in the world.

Although Reinhard listened and answered correctly, his mind wandered along different paths. Everything the man taught, he already knew, and much more. Yet he feigned interest, kept a low profile, and nodded silently. Not out of respect, but strategy. This way, he avoided trouble, and that was enough.

When the lesson ended, Reinhard bowed elegantly and wandered through the mansion corridors. The maids greeted him with warm smiles, the butlers bowed politely, and he returned the gestures without formality, hands behind his head, walking as if carrying the weight of the world carelessly.

That day, something pricked at his mind. He recalled a scene. His parents arguing at the moment of his magical awakening. It wasn't just a quarrel; it was the beginning of something he hadn't understood at the time, but was now beginning to decipher.

—Yes… it's true —he said quietly, stopping in front of a window where the sun caressed his face—. My parents met when they were adventurers…

Homen Ashfield, his father, was a mage with rigorous academic training. A graduate of the prestigious Arcane Academy in the royal capital, he had been a brilliant promise in the magical world. Yet, instead of pursuing a bureaucratic career or becoming a mana instructor, he chose the more uncertain path: adventure. Homen Ashfield had left the university to follow his dream of becoming an adventurer. This infuriated his noble family. An Ashfield did not stoop to walk among bandits, monsters, and peasants. But Homen did, and he did not regret it.

Ramona, on the other hand, was the complete opposite. A peasant born into poverty, she never had the privilege of formal education. She learned swordsmanship on her own, among wood and stones, in the small village where she lived. Upon reaching adulthood, she joined the adventurers' guild with a rusty sword, a determined gaze, and an unbreakable will. It was then that her path crossed with Homen's; both were in the same group and fell in love.

—What a love story… —Reinhard whispered, with a bitter smile—. At least they truly loved each other. Most nobles wouldn't even glance at peasants. But father was the exception…

He stopped in front of the portrait of his parents hanging in the gallery. Ramona's serious and calm gaze contrasted with Homen's more relaxed and smiling expression. Both held little Reinhard when he was just a baby.

—Now I understand why mother felt so frustrated seeing that I would be a mage and not a swordsman… —murmured the boy—. She never got to study in a swordsmanship academy… and expects me to fulfill what she couldn't…

He closed his eyes and sighed.

—Very well. I will try to perfect my swordsmanship… at least for her. It's not that I've grown fond of humans or anything, but… seeing my parents happy gives me a strange feeling. As if it fills something I didn't even know was empty…

He opened his eyes, shining like gold.

—Am I being swayed by human affection? Or is it something else?

Days passed. Reinhard followed his daily routine as always: classes in the morning, training in the afternoon. He was just two months away from turning five. That morning, after a particularly boring lesson, Reinhard walked alone through the main corridors when he stopped in front of a half-open door: the main meeting hall. Voices came from inside. He recognized his parents' voices… but there was another, female, elegant, and unfamiliar.

He approached quietly, pressing his ear against the oak door.

—Are you sure my son will be at a good level? —Ramona asked with a doubtful tone.

—Of course, dear —Homen replied—. Our old friend Rossett is a Royal-class Wind Mage. She is one of the best in the neighboring kingdom… She will be the perfect tutor for Reinhard.

A soft, mature voice replied:

—Don't exaggerate, Mr. Ashfield. I am just another mage. I saw the announcement in the Royal Capital, and upon recognizing your name, I decided to accept.

Reinhard frowned.

—Rossett…? Could she be my new magic teacher?

Curiosity pushed him to spy through the crack. He saw her. A young woman, with smooth skin and wearing a fine white blouse that outlined her figure without vulgarity, her breasts attractive and medium-sized. Her green hair fell over her shoulders, and atop her head rested a pointed hat. Most striking were her wings, shining and translucent like a fairy's.

—Is she a fairy? —he murmured to himself, admiring the woman.

—Relax, Rossett —Homen said with a chuckle—. Just call me Homen, as in the old days. You came all the way from the Royal Capital to this countryside town. I appreciate it.

—Well, Rossett —Ramona added as she stood—, you can stay as long as you like. Your room is ready. We will pay you monthly for instructing our son.

Ramona frowned as she said it.

—And that face? —Rossett asked, noticing the discomfort.

Homen quickly intervened:

—No, it's nothing serious, it's just that… he still struggles to accept that our son wasn't what she expected…

Rossett nodded serenely.

—The first stage of acceptance is denial.

—Very wise words, Rossie —Homen said, clearly pleased.

—Anyway —Homen said, changing the topic—. Come, let me show you the mansion. This way you can meet Reinhard.

Behind the door, Reinhard was startled.

—I have to move now!

But before he could leave, the door opened abruptly. Ramona found him standing there, pretending to be there by chance.

—Good afternoon, mother… —he greeted awkwardly.

—How naughty you are, Reinhard! Listening behind the door like a little spy? —Ramona said with a playful smile.

—Speaking of our son —Homen added—, here he is.

Rossett approached, bowing before the child. She gently caressed his blond hair.

—So you are Reinhard, huh? It's a pleasure to meet you. I am Aunt Rossett, and from today onward I will be your magic teacher.

Reinhard lifted his gaze. His blue eyes met those of the woman, so serene, so beautiful. A blush spread across his face without permission.

—It is also… a pleasure, teacher Rossett —he murmured.

His heart raced. It wasn't fear, nor admiration for her magic. It was something new. Something different.

And thus, at that moment, young Reinhard Ashfield understood that there were many kinds of affection in the world… and some, without even knowing it, could alter the rhythm of his soul.

The morning arrived gently, and the sunlight filtered softly through the ivory curtains of Reinhard Ashfield's room, casting dances of light upon the crimson carpet. The song of distant birds and the scent of freshly watered flowers accompanied the scene.

Reinhard, still hugging his pillow, half-opened his eyes. A wide, blushing smile formed on his face.

—Today is the day! —he exclaimed excitedly, sitting up suddenly with flushed cheeks—. Today will be my first magic practice… with the sexy teacher Rossett.

With an agile leap, he jumped out of bed, brushed his teeth quickly, and ran to the mansion's bathroom. The bathtub was already filled with warm water perfumed with lavender and lily essences. Steam rose slowly, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

There, Lili awaited him, his faithful silver-haired maid with a serene smile. Reinhard sat in the water while she, as usual, began gently washing his back with a soft sponge.

—H-Hey, Lili… —said Reinhard, red as a tomato, his voice trembling—. Don't you think I'm a bit old for you to still do this? I mean… accompanying me to the bath…

Lili let out a discreet giggle, but her tone was firm and full of affection:

—For me, you will never be too old, my lord Reinhard. Besides… —she added with a smile—, you are only five years old, even if you act like a true gentleman.

Reinhard gritted his teeth and looked away, more embarrassed than ever.

—G-Ggh…!

Later, after the morning session of basic studies in history and magical politics, Reinhard walked through the polished marble corridors of the mansion, arriving at the spacious training yard. The blue sky decorated the afternoon, and the sun was slowly descending toward the horizon.

There, in the middle of the garden, Rossett awaited him. The magic teacher looked different than in class: without her ceremonial robe, she wore a fitted blouse and an elegant skirt that flowed with the wind. Her golden hair shone in the sunlight, and her smile was as serene as it was charming.

Reinhard paused for a moment, looking at her in admiration.

—She really is… very sexy when she's not wearing her robe, —he thought, blushing up to his ears.

—Since you're here, Reinhard —said Rossett, taking some items from her leather bag—. Take these.

She handed him two thin wands, dark brown, semi-elastic to the touch. Reinhard examined them, spinning them between his fingers.

—And what are we supposed to do with these wands, teacher Rossett? I don't need them, I can use magic without them —he said innocently.

Rossett smiled naturally.

—I know that, Reinhard. Your parents have told me about your magical feats. At your young age, you already have a Level Blue Elite mana flow, just like me.

Reinhard raised an eyebrow, interested.

—Then why do we need this?

—The wand is not a matter of necessity —explained Rossett, pointing to her own—. It's a matter of efficiency. Using a wand or staff helps channel mana with precision and reduces magical fatigue. Even if you have talent, that doesn't mean your reserve is infinite.

Reinhard frowned.

—So without a wand I use more mana?

—Exactly. Even you, with your talent, can tire faster if you don't use a magical channel. Many mages faint or get injured trying to exceed their own limits without support.

Reinhard silently recalled the moments when, after long training sessions, he collapsed exhausted into his bed.

—Damn… that's true. How could I forget something like that… —he thought, crossing his arms.

—Now then —continued Rossett—. This is your first training, so tell me… what kind of magic would you like to practice?

Reinhard brought a finger to his chin.

—Mmm… Can we start with something basic?

—Of course, something basic to start. How about a fireball? Aim at that tree —she said, pointing to one at the far end of the garden.

—Understood! —said Reinhard. He aimed with the wand, exhaled slowly, and focused.

A sphere of fire began to form at the tip of his wand. The energy spun smoothly, without turbulence. Reinhard noticed immediately.

—It's true… I don't feel like I'm using much mana with the wand…

Rossett watched him closely, her expression showing growing amazement.

—Impressive… —she thought—. He's casting without forming magical gestures…

The fireball shot directly toward the tree, hitting with precision. The flames spread quickly.

—Uwaah! —exclaimed Reinhard, amazed at his own accuracy.

Rossett looked impressed.

—Incredible! You cast a spell without making magical gestures. How do you do it?

—I've always done it this way —Reinhard thought to himself—. But it's strange that humans can't cast like this…

Rossett looked enchanted. Her cheeks flushed as a warm emotion blossomed in her chest.

—Reinhard, I am… delighted to continue being your teacher. You are a very special boy, did you know that?

She then hugged him tenderly. Reinhard was caught in her arms and felt the gentle weight of her body, blushing to his ears.

—O-Of course… as you say. I will continue learning… and appreciating your sexy body in the meantime… —he thought, confused between gratitude and youthful excitement.

But then, both smelled something strange… burning.

—Eh?! —they exclaimed simultaneously.

Rossett looked toward the tree, now burning intensely.

—FIRE!! —she shouted, quickly raising her wand.

She began tracing symbols in the air. Her concentration was absolute, her voice resonating in a magical language. The clouds stirred, and suddenly, heavy raindrops began falling, extinguishing the flames.

Reinhard was left wide-eyed.

—Amazing… her water and wind magic can summon rain…

When the fire was completely out, Rossett returned to his side, soaked but relieved.

—Phew… that was close —she sighed, letting her wet hair fall to one side—. I think there's still a lot to learn, Reini.

—R-Reini…? —asked Reinhard, confused and still red.

—Yes —she said, smiling—. It's a nickname. Don't you like it?

—O-Of course I like it! —he said, hiding his excitement.

That night, after a quiet dinner, Rossett sat in her room, illuminated by the warm light of an oil lamp. She wrote delicately in her leather journal with a quill:

Today, I have come to know even more about my young student's heart. Reinhard Ashfield is no ordinary child. He has a natural talent for magic, and with sweetness, and a unique way of seeing the world. Perhaps… teaching him will also teach me something.

I still don't know how everything will go, but I will stay a while at the Ashfields' house teaching my sweet student Reini a lot about magic. But with his great gift of creating spells without needing gestures, he is out of this world, especially for a small human like him.

Although it could be that Reinhard was born with an Authority that allows him to use magic without gestures or chants, it is hard to believe, but those abilities are skills only elves possess at birth, so no human or other race could have them. Therefore, I have come to the conclusion that Reini is blessed by some god or goddess. Well, I think I am overthinking things.

Rossett closed her journal suddenly while shaking her head, watching the moonlight illuminate her window.

—I need to rest, tomorrow will be a long day —said the fairy, yawning lightly, heading straight to her bed.

Meanwhile, in his room, Reinhard hugged his pillow, blushing, and rolled from side to side in bed.

—S-She gave me a nickname… A nickname! That's a big step. My God… A fairy as beautiful and sexy as Rossett… is my teacher… —he whispered, hiding his face in the pillow with a dreamy smile—. I think… I'm completely captivated.

The morning rose radiant over the golden fields surrounding the Ashfield mansion. The summer breeze danced through the willow branches, and the wheat fields glimmered in amber tones under the sunlight. In front of the mansion's wrought iron gate, Reinhard Ashfield and Miss Rossett prepared to step outside.

Reinhard, with a somewhat hesitant step and a confused expression, turned his face toward his teacher as the gate creaked open.

—Hey, teacher… why are we going outside? —he asked, his brow slightly furrowed—. I thought we would train in the yard, like yesterday.

Rossett paused for a moment. She turned to look at him with a nervous yet sweet smile. The wind slightly lifted the folds of her black robe, and her pointed hat barely moved atop her sky-blue hair.

—Well, Reni —she said softly—, after yesterday's little fire, I think it will be better to practice in a place more… spacious. And safe. Besides, your parents have approved this little excursion.

Reinhard felt delighted with the nickname the woman he was enamored with had given him, but he chose not to say anything. He only nodded, casting a final glance at the great mansion before taking the first steps beyond his familiar territory.

It was the first time since his reincarnation that he truly ventured outside. Although he had lived five years in this new era of the world, he had never felt compelled to explore beyond the family walls. Now, however, he walked beside a woman who both puzzled and fascinated him, and that seemed like a sufficient excuse to do so.

The path wound through fields of wheat and rice, and the dust of the trail rose gently with each step. Rossett walked beside him, her wooden staff adorned with small flowering branches at the tip. Her robe floated gracefully, and now and then, she politely greeted the villagers who bowed to return the gesture.

Reinhard observed everything with bright eyes. The air was different here, free, scented with wildflowers and the damp aroma of fertile earth. A gentle breeze shook his blond hair and lifted some leaves that spun like playful whirlwinds.

—This is going outside… —he murmured with a smile—. I should do this more often; I don't want to end up like a loner.

After nearly an hour of walking, they reached a small hill. From there, the world seemed to unfold like an endless blanket. In the distance, cows grazed calmly, and the rooftops of nearby villages formed small reddish clusters among green hills and lush trees. The sky, clear and blue, seemed almost infinite.

—Here we will practice —announced Rossett, taking the wands out of her leather bag at her side.

The training continued for a long while. Reinhard practiced elemental spells one after another: levitation, fireballs, water streams, gusts of wind. He even manipulated small seeds that blossomed within seconds under his wand. They ate snacks that Lili had carefully prepared under the shade of a solitary oak and continued practicing.

But as the hours passed, Reinhard could not help but feel that everything was… too simple. He knew these spells, he had mastered them in his past life, and in this new incarnation, they felt like kindergarten exercises.

Rossett watched him closely as he performed a new earth technique that barely managed to lift a small mound. Reinhard sighed in frustration.

—Hey, teacher… —he said, panting—. I know this is rushed, but… don't you think I could already learn more advanced spells? I feel bored with these basics.

Rossett tilted her head, bringing a finger to her face with a thoughtful expression.

—Do you really feel that way, Reni? —she murmured curiously—. Well, even though you have an Elite mana flow, that doesn't mean you're completely ready for more complex spells.

Reinhard lowered his gaze, discouraged.

—But, teacher… those spells you cast, like the one you used to make it rain… those inspire me! I would like to learn more special magic, something that leaves a mark. What if one day you're gone and I haven't learned anything of the truly amazing magic you could teach me?

—Like the spells in my book! —she said sharply, pointing to her open satchel.

Rossett's eyes widened in surprise and then she laughed softly.

—Wow, you were snooping in my book, huh? —she commented with an amused smile—. Don't worry, Reni. I'm not leaving yet. There's much to teach you, and you have much to learn. Everything comes in its time.

—Do you promise me? —asked Reinhard innocently.

—I promise you, Reni —responded Rossett gently.

Reinhard nodded excitedly, encouraged by the promise. But just as they were about to pack their things, something strange caught his attention.

In the sky, a dark figure glided swiftly. The gust of wind it left stirred the grass like a sudden wave. Reinhard narrowed his eyes.

—What is that…? A bird…? —he asked uncertainly.

Without warning, Rossett positioned herself in front of him, quickly summoning a wind shield that threw him to the side with protective force. Reinhard fell onto the grass, astonished.

—Teacher! —he shouted, struggling to get up.

In the sky, a winged monster emerged from the dust: a Trigloid Eagle, a massive black bird with three glowing red eyes and blade-like claws. Its guttural screech tore through the air.

Rossett, firm and in control, raised her staff.

—What is that doing here —she whispered.

Reinhard watched, astonished, from the force field.

—Teacher, I'll help! —he shouted.

—Stay where you are, Reni! —she ordered sternly.

Rossett ascended, flying, creating circles of energy beneath her feet. The eagle dived, but she dodged skillfully, sending gusts of wind that cut its feathers. Reinhard, not fully obeying, conjured a fireball with his wand and shot it. The impact struck the bird, but barely left a scratch.

—Damn… in my head it's different —he murmured, seeing how the monster noticed him.

The creature lunged at him at full speed.

—Teacheeer! —he screamed, running for his life.

Then Rossett reappeared before the bird, and with a dance of graceful, precise movements, traced pentagrams in the air. The sky seemed to darken for a moment. From the glowing symbols, a colossal lightning bolt emerged, piercing the eagle with a deadly roar. The monster's body fell like stone to the ground, raising a cloud of dust.

Reinhard froze.

—She… she killed it with a single spell…

Rossett descended, her staff still smoking.

—We'd better go back —she said calmly, leaving the Trigloid Eagle behind.

On the way back, Reinhard walked in silence. Inside, he boiled with amazement. My teacher… she is so powerful… so beautiful… I have much to learn from her.

Upon arriving at the mansion, Rossett gave him a concerned look.

—Hey, Reinhard… promise me you won't tell your parents about this. I don't want to worry them.

Reinhard returned a somewhat mischievous smile.

—Don't worry, I won't say anything… but only if you teach me that powerful spell you used. That's the only condition.

Rossett sighed, bringing a hand to her face.

—I knew you'd say something like that…

That night, while Reinhard slept peacefully with a smile on his face, dreaming of spells and adventures with Rossett, in another room, Rossett wrote under the dim light of a lamp. She carefully closed the letter and tied it to the leg of a tawny owl waiting at the window. The night breeze entered with the murmur of the moon among the clouds.

—Deliver it to the King… urgently —she whispered to the owl, which took flight.

The breeze stirred her light nightgown, and her eyes darkened with a serious, resigned expression.

—They've discovered me… —she murmured—. I won't be able to stay here much longer…

And the silence of the night wrapped around her like a veil.

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