Chapter # 16

I turned and saw Ethan. He wore a proud smile as I approached him, and we left the cafeteria together.

Ethan: "That's my girl," he said, ruffling my hair.

Me: "Hey, don't do that."

Ethan: "I'm genuinely happy. You did great."

Me: "Well, it's all thanks to you."

Ethan: "No, I simply offered advice. You're the one who put it into action."

I offered a warm smile in return.

{Time Skip}

We were headed to the other world for more practice. My nerves kicked in, knowing I had to demonstrate my spells to Grandpa.

Ethan: "Don't be nervous. Just believe."

I nodded, trying to calm my jittery heart. We reached the palace.

Me: "We're here."

Master Z: "Welcome back," he greeted us warmly.

Master Z: "Is someone ready to show me her skills?" He looked at me while tending to the palace's flowers.

I nodded, took a deep breath, and began my demonstration. First, I invoked a spell and ignited a small flame, manipulating it gracefully. Then, I played with fire for a while before extinguishing it.

Master Z: "Impressive. Well done."

Next, I picked up a tree branch, skillfully slicing it into smaller pieces. Another incantation caused the wood pieces to burst into flames, and I manipulated a nearby river's water to douse the fire, leaving me satisfied with my display.

Finally, I closed my eyes, focusing intently, and chanted another spell. The entire scene reversed, returning to its prior state. Grandpa and Ethan stood in awe. I opened my eyes, slightly dizzy but exhilarated.

Master Z: "Amazing... You've done exceptionally well. I'm thoroughly satisfied with your performance."

I couldn't help but smile, grateful that I didn't falter during my presentation.

Master Z: "However, Katie, where did you learn the reverse spell?"

Me: "My grandmother gave me my mother's spellbook, and I stumbled upon it while browsing. It piqued my interest, and I decided to learn it."

Master Z: "Was that your first attempt?"

Me: "Yes... Why? Did I do it wrong?"

Master Z: "No, not at all."

Me: "Then why the surprise?"

Master Z: "The reverse spell is exceptionally potent, and it usually takes years to master. No one accomplishes it on the first try. Your success indicates the extent of your power. To be clear, the reverse spell and the disappearing spell are two of the most formidable incantations."

Me: "Disappearing spell?"

Ethan: "Yes, it makes things or people vanish."

Master Z: "But they are

also perilous. Using them carries the risk of exhausting your energy, and they can be dangerous if not wielded with caution."

Me: "That explains why I felt dizzy afterward."

Master Z: "Indeed. Please, Katie, consider refraining from learning these spells. The risk they pose isn't worth it. I don't want to put you in harm's way."

Me: "Alright, I understand."

Master Z: "For today, you can take a break. Tomorrow, we'll focus on combat."

Me: "Combat?"

Master Z: "Yes, you need to learn to defend yourself. Magic alone won't suffice."

Me: "Alright, Master."

{The next day}

Me: "Master, I'm ready for combat training."

Master Z: "Excellent."

Me: "Who will be teaching me? Chief Shen?"

Master Z: "No."

Me: "Then who?"

Ethan: "The teacher is standing right next to you."

Me: "Who? You?"

Ethan: "Don't look down on me. I happen to be a champion in combat."

I tried not to laugh but failed, breaking into laughter.

Ethan: "Heyy~" ಠ_ಠ

Grandpa chuckled at the sight of us.

Master Z: "Alright, I'll leave you two to it. Good luck with your training."

We both nodded.

Ethan: "Now watch and learn." He cracked his knuckles and demonstrated various fighting techniques, showcasing his considerable skill.

Me: "Wow, that's impressive."

Ethan: "Well, now you know."

I playfully rolled my eyes.

Ethan: "Now, show me your combat skills."

Me: "Let's start practicing, then." I teased, grinning.

Ethan: "Alright."

We began sparring, and after a while, Ethan was panting.

Ethan: "Alright... enough..." He managed to say.

Me: "You're really strong."

Ethan: "I know."

Me: "It should be the other way around."

Ethan: "What?"

Me: "I should be training you. You've got it backward." I said, teasing him.

He playfully put his leg in front of me, causing me to stumble. I fell, and he promptly pulled away with a smirk.

Ethan: "Strength alone isn't enough; you need to use your brain, Miss 'I'm so awesome'."

Me: "Aish. You dummy."

Ethan: "Ohh dummy. I like that name. Isn't it cute?"

Me: "Is it?? Then what about dimwit?"

Ethan: "Heyyy~~ don't be rude now."

Me: "Help me stand up."

Ethan: "Okay old lady.."