Today was a sunny day… though I doubted how sunny it would be for me.
I stopped before my mother's door, nerves twisting in my chest. Knocking gently, I heard her sweet voice from inside.
"Come in."
I wished I could hear that voice forever.
Stepping inside, I found her crocheting, her hands moving with familiar grace. She looked up, her smile warm as always.
"Elvira, do you want to say something?"
"Yes, Mom… if you're not busy."
She patted the seat beside her. "Come, sit. I'm listening."
I sat down, staring at my hands. My throat tightened as I tried to speak.
"Mom… if I ever had the chance to become a capable mage, but it required me to leave… for years… would you let me?"
She paused, eyes widening slightly at my unexpected words. But soon, her smile returned—gentle, unwavering.
"My child, as your mother, I will always wish the best for you. You have all my support and blessings."
Her words broke me. Tears slipped down my cheeks before I could stop them.
She was the only person in this house who had never turned her back on me. The thought of leaving her behind crushed my heart.
"Thank you, Mom… I promise, one day, I'll return as a daughter worthy of you. A daughter who can brighten your name." My voice cracked with sobs.
She brushed away my tears with tender hands. "I trust you, my dear. But promise me you'll keep in contact. I won't let my daughter suffer in silence."
I lifted my head to meet her gaze. She truly was the kindest person I had ever known.
"Mom… can I hug you?"
She nodded, and I embraced her tightly. I tried to memorize the warmth of her arms, because this might be the last time for a long while.
After some time, I let go and stood.
"Please, take care of yourself. I won't be at peace if I hear you're unwell."
She chuckled softly. "Don't worry. But before you go, take this."
She handed me the scarf she had just finished crocheting. "Winter is near. Keep it with you."
The stitches were flawless, as always.
"Thank you, Mom."
I bowed respectfully and left her room, my heart heavy.
---
Now came the harder part—facing my father. Not that I expected resistance; he'd likely be relieved to be rid of me. Still, I needed to inform him.
Knocking on his door, I heard his cold command. "Enter."
I stepped in, bowed, then lowered myself to one knee before the head of the Visbon clan. He was polishing his "Commander of Order Knights" armor, his sword gleaming beside him.
"My lord, forgive the intrusion. It is urgent."
"Make it short."
I drew in a deep breath. "I wish to leave on a journey. To train myself and expand my knowledge. I cannot say how long it will take before I return. I ask your permission to depart."
A silence followed, heavy and uncomfortable. He studied me with unreadable eyes, then finally spoke.
"An adventurer, huh? I wonder how you'll survive… with what little you have."
His words stung, but I had expected worse.
"Nevertheless, you have my permission."
Of course. Who would want to keep a burden?
"I appreciate it, my lord. I swear I won't return until I can bring honor to the Visbon name. Please, take care of yourself. Now, excuse me."
They were bold words, even for me. I bowed again and left, wondering what expression he wore as I spoke them.
---
Outside, I headed straight for the playground near the academy, where Tindra and Noomi were waiting.
"You're finally here!" Tindra snapped. "You said it was urgent. What happened?"
Beside her, Noomi watched me with a questioning gaze.
I told them everything—about the offer, about Eslante Obrone, about my decision.
"You agreed?" Noomi's tone was sharp, suspicion in her eyes.
"I thought about it all night and day… and this is the conclusion I came to."
"This man sounds far too mysterious," Tindra muttered, clearly worried. "I don't know if you should trust him."
"I know it's hasty," I admitted, "but… please. Support me."
They exchanged glances. Silence stretched until Noomi finally spoke.
"Fine. We'll support your decision. But don't come crying later and say we didn't warn you."
"Yeah—don't you dare," Tindra added, trying to lighten the mood.
I smiled faintly. "I won't… hopefully."
I handed them each a small stone. "These have teleportation magic. You can use them to reach me, but not today."
Tindra's eyes welled up. "You're leaving us… You're so mean!"
"I'm not leaving. You can visit me anytime."
"I know, but still…"
I hugged them both, whispering, "Don't worry. I'll be fine. So let's hope for the best."
"…Yeah. Let's hope for the best," Noomi replied softly.
---
Later, I returned home. On the way to my room, I crossed paths with Ikon. His eyes pierced into me, like he was trying to see through my soul. I ignored it, bowed politely, and walked past.
In my room, my bags were ready—only two, though they felt heavier than my heart. I pulled out the stone and paper Obrone had given me.
With a steady breath, I read the words. A brilliant light enveloped me, so bright I had to shut my eyes.
When I opened them again…
"Welcome, young lady."
Eslante Obrone stood before me, waiting—almost as if he'd known I would come.
---