From Rock Bottom To Hero

After the fight this morning, nothing special happened. It didn't take long before evening arrived.

I enter the dining room. Dinner is already set on the table, and the scent of roasted meat and fresh herbs fills the room.

Mother must have put in extra effort today, probably because it's Reina's last evening here.

We all sit down together at the table. Shiro, Mother, Father, Reina, and I.

It feels strange knowing that this is the last time Reina will be with us.

For two years, she taught me magic, and today it all comes to an end. I am truly grateful to her.

Reina sets her cutlery aside and looks at me. "So, Sota. Your training is officially over. How do you feel?"

I think for a moment before taking a bite. "Weird. For the past two years, you were always here. And now..." I shrug. "Now you're leaving."

Reina smiles faintly. "I'm not leaving the world, you know? We'll definitely meet again one day. Besides, you're not a beginner anymore. There's not much left I can teach you."

Father leans back, arms crossed. "That's true. Your progress has been impressive. You've both worked hard."

Mother smiles gently. "We'll miss you so much, Reina. You've almost become part of the family."

Reina laughs briefly. "Thank you, that means a lot. But my job here is done." She looks at me. "Sota, I really had a great time with you."

I nod. "Thank you, Reina. For everything."

She waves it off. "Oh, I only helped a little."

"A little?" I snort. "Without you, I'd still be unable to use magic."

Shiro suddenly puts down his cutlery. "So what happens next? What will you do now?"

Reina takes a sip of her tea. "I'm moving on. Another family requested a magic teacher for their son."

"That son is really lucky to get a teacher like you." I murmur.

Reina chuckles softly. "Oh, I'm not that great."

After dinner, Shiro and I help clear the table.

As night falls, everyone retreats to their rooms. I stay awake for a while, staring out the window before lying down beside Shiro and falling asleep.

I wake up early. The sun hasn't fully risen yet.

I look out the window again. Reina is standing outside next to her packed bag.

I sprint out of the house. I really want to say goodbye.

When I throw open the door, Reina looks at me, surprised. "You're up early." She says with a small smile.

I stop abruptly, panting. "I didn't want to let you leave without saying goodbye."

Reina eyes me for a moment, then grins. "I'm proud of you, you know? You have talent. If you keep this up, you'll be an incredible mage one day."

I can't find the words to reply.

Suddenly, Father and Mother come outside. Mother hugs Reina warmly. "Take care of yourself, okay?"

"Of course." Reina replies with a smile.

Then Reina turns to me. "So, Sota. Any last words?"