Mushoku Tensei: Reborn Mayhem

In the time between the request for a magic tutor and Roxy's arrival, Paul initiated my physical training in preparation for future swordsmanship lessons. Despite being only three years old, I was subjected to rigorous routines, including running ten laps around the property and performing one hundred push-ups and sit-ups daily. While I appreciated the training, it was undeniably challenging for someone of my age.

I delved into other elements detailed in the magic books, particularly fire and wind magic. Recalling that the self-made nuke against Orsted was likely a combination of these elements, I was eager to experiment, though I doubted I could achieve such feats anytime soon. I thought of a spell that combined Fireball with Sonic Boom, aiming to create a new spell I named "Sonic Flare." I hypothesized that the increased oxygen would intensify the flame, potentially turning it white or blue, indicating enhanced power.

Testing this idea outdoors, the results exceeded my expectations. The spell not only merged both elements seamlessly but also inflicted both cutting and burning damage simultaneously. With these developments, time seemed to fly by until Roxy's arrival.

When she finally arrived, she introduced herself at the front door:

"My name's Roxy Migurdia, nice to meet you," Roxy said as she bowed politely.

For a moment, I just stared. The illustrations and anime didn't do her justice—her cerulean hair shone in the light, and her expression carried an air of professionalism mixed with a hint of nervousness.

"You're beautiful," I said without thinking.

Her cheeks immediately turned a rosy red, and she coughed into her hand, visibly flustered. "T-Thank you, I suppose… Ahem. So, um, who will I be teaching?"

Paul and Zenith exchanged proud smiles before Zenith gestured toward me. "Our son, Rudeus. He's our little genius."

Roxy's expression shifted into something skeptical, though she maintained her polite smile. "I see. Many parents are eager to boast about their children's abilities, but talent in magic often requires proof. Let me see what he can do."

I nodded, determined to show her I wasn't some spoiled brat riding on my parents' praise.

she replied. "Shall we move to the garden for a brief assessment, Rudeus?"

"Of course," I agreed, eager to demonstrate my skills.

In the garden, Roxy asked, "What do you know about magic so far?"

I chose to be modest, revealing only basic knowledge. "I've read some introductory books and practiced simple spells like Water Ball."

She nodded approvingly. "A good foundation to start."

Roxy gestured for me to stand a few steps away. "We'll start with a basic spell. Watch closely and try to replicate it." She stepped forward, her movements practiced and deliberate. Extending her hand, she spoke clearly, "Let the great protection of water be on the place thou seekest. I call a refreshing burbling stream here and now. Water Ball."

A perfect sphere of water formed in the air before her, hovering for a moment before splashing to the ground. She turned to me with a small smile. "Your turn. Let's see how much you know."

I stepped forward and nodded, focusing inward. Feeling the mana flowing through me, I visualized water droplets forming and merging into a ball. Without uttering a word, I cast the spell. A shimmering water ball appeared in the air, identical to hers, before I let it drop gently to the ground.

The garden fell silent.

Roxy's eyes widened, and her composure faltered. She stared at me, her voice trembling slightly. "Y-You… You didn't chant. How did you do that?"

I hesitated, realizing I might have overdone it. "I just focus on the structure of the spell and guide the mana directly. Incantations are like training wheels, right? Once you understand how the magic works, you don't really need them."

Her expression shifted to one of disbelief, mixed with an undercurrent of something else—inferiority. "I… I've been studying magic for years, and I've never been able to cast without chanting. It's something only veterans and the strongest are said to accomplish…"

I felt a pang of guilt. I hadn't meant to overshadow her. "You're an incredible teacher, Miss Roxy. I've just… had unusual circumstances. It's not something I figured out overnight."

Her ears drooped slightly, and she looked away for a moment before forcing a smile. "Unusual circumstances, indeed. Well… I can see there's a lot to teach you. If anything, this will make our lessons even more interesting."

I remained silent, sensing her internal struggle. She took a deep breath, then smiled warmly at me. "It seems I have much to learn from you, Rudeus. Let's work hard together."

"I'm eager to learn from you as well, Miss Roxy," I replied sincerely.

Roxy took a deep breath, regaining her composure. "We'll start formal lessons tomorrow. Rudeus, I expect you to take them seriously. You may have talent, but there's always room to improve."

As she walked away, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and guilt. Roxy Migurdia had just become my first teacher, and I had a lot to prove—not just to her, but to myself.