Two months had passed, and Luna's magical skill had grown remarkably. The lessons were more than routine now—they were tests of creativity, control, and collaboration. I watched her carefully as she manipulated fire and air, weaving them into intricate patterns that danced above the floor of the library.
She was talented—naturally gifted, quick to learn, and surprisingly clever at adapting spells to her own style. Her emerald eyes sparkled with excitement as she glanced at me after successfully completing a complicated elemental weave.
"You're improving faster than I expected," I said, a small smile tugging at my lips. "Keep this up, and soon you'll surpass most students your age in basic and intermediate magic."
She blushed faintly, looking down, and I noticed a subtle admiration in her expression. "Thanks… Seraphina. I… I really enjoy learning from you."
I nodded, keeping my tone professional but warm. Good. That's how it should be. Respect, admiration, inspiration. I reminded myself constantly to maintain the boundaries that were so important. My role wasn't just to teach magic—it was to guide, support, and foster her growth.
As the day progressed, I assigned her more advanced exercises: combining elemental spells with defensive charms, experimenting with magical constructs, and weaving small wards around objects to test her control. She excelled at each challenge, her confidence growing with every success.
I allowed myself a quiet satisfaction: teaching was hard, demanding, and rewarding. Watching her progress, seeing her determination and talent bloom—it was far more fulfilling than indulging in my own emotions.
And while admiration and respect naturally deepened between us, I kept my focus where it mattered: on lessons, guidance, and helping her reach her magical potential.
By the end of the session, Luna was tired but proud. I gave her a reassuring nod. "Well done today. You've learned a lot, and your control is improving with each practice. Keep this up, and you'll be unstoppable."
She beamed, her grin lighting up the library in a way that made me smile without losing focus. "Thank you, Seraphina! I won't let you down."
Good, I thought. That's exactly the bond I want—trust, admiration, and respect. Nothing else. For now.