Chapter 9

"Indeed, that's how it is. This place is quite far from the capital, and it can be called a frontier, but judging from the town's appearance, it's vibrant enough to be called a second capital. Moreover, the expressions of the townspeople are very good. It's a sign of good governance. You are truly Lord Bent."

"Hehe, thank you. Even if I know it's flattery, it's still pleasant to hear. Well, standing here talking isn't good. Please sit down. I'll prepare some tea."

The sofa I was led to was a high-quality leather one. Meena and I sat down on either side of the table. It seemed that Miss Scarlett had gone to prepare the tea in place of Lord Bent.

"Well, Mr. Jade. I believe Miss Scarlett has told you, but one of the magic department teachers resigned recently. I've been looking for a replacement, but I can't seem to find anyone. I even thought about bringing someone from the capital through my connections, but unfortunately, I'm not on good terms with the central nobles. If you're willing, how about it?"

Lord Bent explained the situation in a slow, deliberate manner. He must have been a ruler for many years; his voice had a mysterious quality that drew people in.

"Um, thank you for the invitation. I do have an interest in teaching, but I've spent most of my time on research, training, and guarding, so I lack confidence in guiding others. Besides, I was expelled from the Magic Bureau. Is it really okay to hire me so quickly?"

I have no intention of playing mind games with Lord Bent, so I honestly shared my thoughts. Lord Bent nodded calmly—

"Hmm, Mr. Jade. Your concerns are quite reasonable. Teaching children with infinite potential is a daunting task. Anyone who doesn't feel anxious about it is probably not the right fit. However, interestingly, one's position can shape a person. Once you experience the joy of seeing children grow, you'll be driven to work hard. I pride myself on my ability to judge people. From our brief conversation, I believe you have the potential."

"…Is that really so?"

"Yes, it's true. But the decision is yours, Mr. Jade. I have no intention of forcing you, and I won't ask you to leave Elm if you decline. I don't need an immediate answer. However, the opening ceremony won't wait, hehe."

It seems Lord Bent wants an answer by the opening ceremony. He continued—

"Also, this is a personal request, and you can decline if you wish. Can you show me your magic? You reached the rank of court magician, after all."

Lord Bent spoke smoothly, as if he had rehearsed a speech. When he mentioned his personal request, he even winked playfully, a stark contrast to his earlier strict demeanor, making him seem like a kind old man.

(I need to be careful or I'll be at Lord Bent's pace the whole time…)

The request was within my expectations. I had no particular reason to refuse, but I felt cautious.

"…Well, if it's just that."

"Hehe, thank you. I've been very excited since Miss Scarlett told me about you last night. I thought something was amiss when she came so late, but it turned out to be excellent news."

"I'm sorry for the late visit last night. But I really wanted to catch him…"

"Yes, your decision was correct. I'm very interested in your magic, and in you, Mr. Jade. Let's go see your magic, shall we?"

Lord Bent genuinely seemed curious to see my magic. He called out to Miss Scarlett and Meena, and the four of us headed to the magic field.

The magic field was empty and cold. Despite the chill, Lord Bent seemed excited.

"Well, Mr. Jade. Can you use magic with more than four syllables?"

Four syllables. The more syllables a spell has, the more difficult it is. Magic words, which carry magical power, require tremendous concentration to convert into a magic array. One syllable is for basic magic, two syllables for intermediate magic, three syllables for advanced magic, and four syllables or more for super-advanced magic.

Naturally, as a court magician, I can use magic with more than four syllables. In fact, I can use up to seven syllables, though only Mr. Darvits knows this.

"Hmm? What's the matter? Even for a court magician, is four syllables still difficult?"

"Oh, no, I'm sorry. I was just thinking. It's fine, I can use it."

"Ah, impressive. Here at Elm Academy, no one can use more than three syllables. I'd really like to see what magic with more than four syllables looks like."

"Understood. Do you have any preferences for the type of magic you'd like to see?"

At that moment, I missed something. Lord Bent's eyes glinted suspiciously. After a moment of feigned contemplation, he nodded and said—

"Yes. It should be an attack spell. I want to see a spectacular and powerful magic. This magic field has a magic-resistant barrier on the inside, and the floor, walls, and ceiling are all made of magic-resistant Daryl steel. Of course, the barrier has never been broken."

Hearing those words, I felt a bit of empathy for Lord Bent. I've always loved attack magic the most. Let me make it clear, I don't have any destructive or murderous impulses. I just have a pure admiration for the coolness of attack magic that I've carried since childhood.

I touched the walls and floor. The magic barrier was evenly spread and seemed to be in good condition.