Chapter 12: Imam (2)
That night, Lady Aiselin had finished all her engagements at the Duplain estate and was ready to return to Ebelstain.
Jayden, who had been accompanying Dereck as a precaution, also decided it was time to leave, so Dereck readied himself to say farewell and stood at the mansion’s main gate.
“I’m glad I brought you to the duchy, Dereck,” Aiselin said with a bright smile by the carriage.
She genuinely looked pleased—lately the atmosphere at the duchy had improved, and that brought her joy. Although she now lived in the grand house in Ebelstain, her concern for her family’s estate remained a defining trait.
“Not at all. Even if I had, I haven’t done much,” Dereck replied.
“No need for false modesty. It must have been tough from your perspective.”
After all, Lady Aiselin’s request was that Diella learn first‑tier magic so she could enter society with confidence. Materializing magic was half the battle, so a satisfied look was natural.
“I wish I could stay longer with my family, but I must return to Ebelstain. There’s still so much left to do.”
With a grateful wave, Lady Aiselin climbed into the carriage. Jayden, also bound for Ebelstain, gave Dereck a friendly pat on the shoulder before he followed her in.