Chapter 13

Chapter 13
## Chapter 13

When Duke Duplain was giving instructions to his butler Delron, the office door burst open.

Lady Miriel’s face appeared, overflowing with fury, with Prince Valerian right behind her, trying to calm her down.

“Delron. Please leave for a moment.”

“…Yes.”

After dismissing Delron, Miriel walked in with a firm step and sat across from the Duke’s desk, pinning him with a fierce gaze.

“It seems you have returned from the southern social circle. It must have been a long trip; you must be tired.”

“It is nothing. The most important thing is that you have hired a new tutor for Diella…”

“…”

Duke Duplain had an expression as if preparing himself to listen to her words. He rubbed his temples, as if trying to ward off a headache, and looked at Valerian, who was by his side.

“It was Aiselin’s decision.”

“Even so, how could you allow a commoner to give private lessons in the same pavilion where Diella lives?”

—BANG!

Miriel slammed her hand on the table, her voice thundering. She stared at him intently.

> **Discover more**
> * Sustainable fashion
> * Books
> * Women’s clothing

She was the lady of the House of Duplain. While the Duke managed their lands and political affairs, she oversaw the grand mansion.

Although she had been away attending the social circle of the Count of the Cradle in the south, she did not expect anything to change at home.

“Aiselin may be too indulgent in her decisions, but as her father, you should have dismissed him immediately. We must preserve the dignity of our lineage. Don’t you agree, dear?”

“I don’t like appointing commoners either. But as you already know, all the capable magic tutors have already packed their bags and left the mansion.”

“No matter what happens, you should have brought someone of the appropriate status. How could you… how could you bring a mercenary…? And on top of that, to be Diella’s tutor…!”

Miriel was furious. Duke Duplain set aside his pen and, frowning, replied:

“As you well know, finding a truly competent magic teacher is no easy task.”

“At the very least, there should have been basic requirements. That Dereck—whatever his name is—that commoner, should be fired immediately, and… you should visit Flam at the edges of the estate.”

Flam was the Duke’s brother, and he commanded the stationed troops that patrolled the boundaries of the property and handled magic beasts. He was one of the few four-star mages of the Duplain family, but he had failed to instruct Diella.

“Didn’t Flam resign a long time ago?”

“That was when Diella… was wandering. Now that she has grown and her magic has materialized, he could control her.”

“Remove someone in command of our frontier troops to act as an internal tutor? Do you think the operation of the estate should be affected?”

“The education of our heir is as vital as the administration of the estate. One cannot expect everyone to possess a natural talent like Valerian or Leigh. There are many capable lieutenants to oversee the soldiers.”

Miriel held the Duke’s gaze in silence.

She was practically the only one daring enough to look at him with disdain in that manner; such was her authority as the mistress of the house. Although she could not interfere in ducal affairs, she exercised independent power over the household.

Taking this into account, the Duke listened calmly to Miriel’s argument.

“It doesn’t matter if magic is taught by Dereck or Flam.”

“Well, it’s not exactly the same.”

> **Discover more**
> * Novelty subscription service
> * History
> * Adventure games

“What is the difference?”

“He gets results.”

Duke Duplain stroked his beard and leaned back. Miriel held her breath seeing him calm.

“Results are not everything, dear.”

“What matters more than that?”

“Men do not understand the social circles of Ebelstain. They do not understand how crucial it is to have the right tutor in such a demanding environment.”

The men of the family, absorbed in estate operations and their training, did not fully understand the culture of female social circles.

But Miriel, the mistress of the house, did. In the social circles of Ebelstain, it wasn’t just family background that mattered, but also personal achievements, who had taught you, and how many connections you had; all of it demonstrated a lady’s refinement.

When the name of a famous magic tutor from the continent was mentioned, connections were often established with others who shared the same mentor, thus forming a powerful faction within the social circle.

In such a culture, what a shame it would be to appoint an unknown commoner as a tutor! The exchange of words in the social circles of Ebelstain was as fierce as sword duels between warriors. Miriel did not want Diella to have such an obvious weakness.

With a furrowed brow and a raised voice, Miriel continued:

“It is true that Dereck, that commoner, has done quite well; his achievements for a commoner cannot be denied. But now, the appropriate thing is to appoint a high-level magic tutor. It is the right thing for Diella and our family.”

Duke Duplain narrowed his eyes, observing Miriel in silence. Her concern was well-founded; debuting in society only to be rejected would damage the Duplain name.

The ladies of the nobility represented their families. High-society daughters like Aiselin posed no problem, but if Diella failed socially, the family honor would be harmed.

“Mother, you are too upset. Let’s calm down and talk about this tomorrow.”

“Valerian, step aside. Matters like this must be resolved immediately, or they will only get worse.”

Miriel was resolute, known for handling domestic affairs with an iron will.

“I will not rest knowing that poor man is still here.”

> **Discover more**
> * Coin shop
> * Fantasy books
> * Recruitment of translators

“In the end, isn’t it simply about proving the worth of that commoner mage, Mother?”

Just then, the second son, Leigh, entered in response to the uproar.

He came running as soon as he heard. Standing tall, he appeared with urgent words.

“Leigh!”

At that moment, Leigh, the second son of the Duplain family, entered in response to the situation.

As soon as he knew what was happening, he ran to the study. As always, he entered the office with a straight back, giving the impression that he had something important to say.

Duke Duplain narrowed his eyes.

“Leigh!”

“I was in training. I apologize for not greeting you, Mother.”

“I’m glad to see you well. Let’s leave the formalities for later. But… do you know anything about that mage named Dereck?”

“Yes. He is not a bad person, but he does not share our uncle’s teachings.”

Leigh adjusted his arm and stood in front of Duke Duplain.

“Father. I will test Dereck’s merit myself.”

“Leigh. That man is a true mage. Perhaps when you mature, as the noble you are, you can surpass him, but not now.”

“…”

Leigh was irritated by the Duke’s words but remained silent. The idea that a noble could be surpassed by a commoner was unthinkable to him.

Leigh had already mastered several first-level spells. Although he had not reached the second level like Valerian, his mastery of first-level magic was so great that even Valerian recognized his superiority.

However, if the Duke made such a decision, Leigh could not simply oppose it. He had to propose an alternative.

Then, an idea seemed to occur to Leigh, and a faint smile appeared at the corner of his lips.

“How about… we simply put Diella to the test?”

> **Discover more**
> * Romance novels
> * Action and adventure novels
> * E-book publishing

When Leigh spoke, everyone frowned. It was a possibility they had not considered.

“What do you mean?”

“If Dereck is truly an exceptional tutor, then Diella, under his tutelage, must have achieved something notable. I will personally challenge her to a magic duel and evaluate her skills.”

“What are you thinking, Leigh?”

“Just as I said.”

Duke Duplain stroked his beard, deep in thought. He had dedicated his life to evaluating people’s capabilities. It wasn’t difficult for him to understand Leigh’s way of thinking.

Leigh felt no affection for Diella. He believed her entry into society would only tarnish the family’s reputation. Even if it meant humiliating her in public or firing her trusted tutor, relegating Diella to the annex seemed like the best option for the long-term prestige of the Duplain family.

However, if Leigh, who despised Diella the most, recognized her, no one in the family would object. At this thought, Grand Duke Duplain had no choice but to sink into reflection.

“Father… why do you hesitate…?”

After all, Diella was barely learning first-level magic. Proposing a duel with Leigh—who already mastered many first-level spells—would be cruel. Undoubtedly, unfair to her. Valerian could not stay silent.

“Leigh! Learn when to intervene and when not to!”

“Brother! Know the difference! But now… now is the time to act!”

Leigh approached the Duke, speaking firmly.

“If Diella really has talent, then we move forward. But if not, we get rid of Dereck. Isn’t that enough?”

“…There is truth in your words.”

“Father!”

This time Valerian struck the table, but Duke Duplain’s face remained impassive.

Valerian grit his teeth, about to speak again, when finally Duke Duplain spoke:

“That would be too harsh for Diella. You know it.”

> **Discover more**
> * Language learning tools
> * Fantasy books
> * Online bookstore

“Yes. But if she expects to live in society with a commoner tutor, she must demonstrate that level. Miriel’s argument is valid.”

If we keep postponing it, it will never end. Time is not infinite. That is precisely why we must check now. So, what do you think, Miriel? Should we move forward with Leigh’s suggestion?

“…”

Miriel reflected for a moment and then looked at Leigh.

The strong second son, Leigh, had always trained diligently. Soon he would be an adult and his achievements were outstanding; undoubtedly, he was not someone who could lose to a girl who was just beginning to manifest her magic.

No matter how skilled Dereck was as a teacher, if it wasn’t meant to be, then it wasn’t.

Finally, Miriel smiled as a faint grin formed at the corner of her lips.

“Leigh!”

Valerian made Leigh return from the hallway.

Leigh closed and reopened his eyes, meeting Valerian’s gaze.

“Yes, brother.”

“What were you really thinking, Leigh?”

Do my words lack clarity? Exactly as I said in the office.

Valerian grit his teeth, but Leigh kept going.

Do you really think she has turned a page? I don’t, not even if the sky turned upside down. She is fascinated with magic, wearing a mask. I would rather stain the Duplain name myself than exhibit a girl like that in society.

“And you think it’s justified to fire the tutor who finally arrived?”

“Are you referring to that Dereck?”

Leigh, who had always trusted his older brother, refused to yield. His expression was firm.

“Yes. One must recognize that he teaches well. But does that justify Dereck remaining tied to Diella?”

> **Discover more**
> * Translation software
> * Story writing courses
> * Character products

“What do you mean?”

Leigh walked slowly toward Valerian, his eyes blazing.

“Diella, 그 brat, should be locked in the pavilion.”

After saying it clearly, Leigh turned around and left, his footsteps echoing through the hallway.

Valerian grit his teeth, unable to speak.

Leigh had suffered much during Diella’s most difficult moments; he could understand him. Leaning against the wall, he pressed his forehead and sighed.

Valerian was Leigh’s brother, and also Diella’s. As long as these two convictions coexisted, his worries would never end.

***

Bang!

The next morning, while Dereck was reading at the living room table, the door opened with a soft hiss.

Having already recognized those footsteps, Dereck showed no surprise and kept his eyes fixed on the book.

“Please call them.”

“Is that what you want right now?”

Diella entered the room and gestured to the accompanying servants to leave.

The servants, covered in a cold sweat, quickly closed the door behind them and retreated to the hallway.

Diella circled the table where Dereck was sitting and threw a letter written by Duke Duplain himself. Dereck already knew what it was about.

“If I lose this magic duel, you will be fired.”

“I’ve heard that Lord Leigh is already a fully formed one-star mage, so it won’t be easy.”

“Is that all you have to say? Don’t you care about being fired just like that?”

“I was hired to do a job, and I will finish it. I have received proper compensation.”

Dereck was well aware of the enormous difference between commoners and nobles. That’s why, unlike Diella, he remained serene. Despite her efforts on many fronts, Diella’s magic had grown more slowly than expected.

In reality, her pace wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t enough to reach one-star magic in such a short time. He realized she would have to face Leigh with only her basic unranked magic. Even with the various one-star spells I possess, it is not clear if she could defeat him. In other words, it is practically a defeat.

Dereck closed his book and, while tying his shoelaces, said:

“Miss Diella, perhaps you already feel it, but your magic power is on the right track. You may not master one-star magic immediately, but if you continue as you have, with diligence, you will progress quickly. After all, you belong to the Duplain lineage.”

“…What do you mean by that? Why are you saying it?”

“I told you already. The magic of the wild school prioritizes self-learning over tradition.”

Dereck spoke in his usual calm tone.

Diella felt both comfort and strangeness observing him.

This boy, Dereck, always had that air. As Diella’s tutor, he lived in the noble Duplain mansion, but he seemed ready to leave at any moment, with a lightness, something very characteristic of a wandering mercenary.

Diella thought about it carefully, then approached and stared Dereck in the eyes. In them, an unknown sadness was perceived.

“Dereck. I know… I am not an outstanding student.”

“…”

“Even so… I want you to keep teaching me magic. I don’t want anyone else.”

It was rare for Diella, who used to complain, to express her feelings so directly.

Like a scarred alley cat, she growled and mistrusted everyone; but once she opened her heart, she didn’t pull out her claws unnecessarily. However, wanting something does not guarantee getting it. Even Diella, who had lived without desires, had to understand that truth.

If there is something you desire, you must fight for it. If there is something you don’t want to lose, you must fight to keep it.

For common people, that was obvious. Now, this girl also had to understand it.

I must warn you: I don’t know the subtle rules and fundamentals of magic duels between nobles. My knowledge is superficial, fragmentary. After all, I am a mercenary who once wandered the battlefields.

“So… you mean you can’t teach me about duels?”

“Exactly. But I can teach you how to win a fight.”

Dereck leaned in to look Diella in the eyes and asked:

“Do you want to win?”

Diella, who before stared at the wall from a pergola covered in thorns, now had a glint in her eyes.

***

A few days later, a platform for a magic duel was erected in front of the Duplain estate garden.

Among the nobility, magic duels were refined events.

Even in the social circles of Ebelstain, where magic salons and exchange meetings were regularly held, most attendees witnessed duels between advanced mages. Magic duels were, in essence, one of the most representative ways to demonstrate one’s achievements.

While duels between family members were not uncommon, today was a special day. It was the first time Lady Diella herself stepped onto the platform.

In a first duel, it was customary for attendees with magical knowledge to act as training partners, but today, the one offering himself was Leigh, the second son of the noble Duplain family. Although still young and about to celebrate his coming-of-age ceremony, he was already a true mage.

At noon, with the sun high, Leigh stood, dressed in his formal suit and robe, with a satisfied smile on his face.

The Duke and Duchess Duplain observed from the large terrace adjoining their private quarters, overlooking the garden, while other attendees gathered near the platform, ready to witness the duel with due ceremony.

Sitting on the terrace, his fingers brushing the rim of his teacup, Grand Duke Duplain looked at Dereck, who sat quietly near the platform. He showed no sign of tension.

Has he given up or is he confident? It’s hard to tell. Even being an exceptional tutor, he probably didn’t anticipate this situation.

The mage had an unusual calmness, even in situations where others would be nervous. Whether it was because of the courage instilled in him by his years as a mercenary, he was not someone to be carried away by panic, even in the worst circumstances.

“He certainly isn’t someone to be discarded so quickly.”

The Grand Duke looked at Miriel, let out a slight snort, and then turned his gaze back to the platform.

There, Leigh, after finishing all preparations, adjusted his shirt cuffs with a confident expression. On the other side, Diella climbed the steps to the platform. Her voluminous golden curls framed her upper body.

As always, her precious ruffled dress and bow symbolized her role as the youngest and most adorable member of the Duplain family. But today, she wore a reddish-brown robe.

The sleeves of the robe were a bit large for the girl, hanging loose. When the warm breeze swept through the garden, the hem of the robe waved gently in the breeze.

Under the hood, Diella’s eyes shone with a resolute aura, barely visible.

“…”

Seeing this, Leigh had a sudden revelation. The girl had not come today as the youngest daughter of the Duplain family. She had come as Dereck’s student, and as a mage.