A Lesson in Magic
"...Magic?"
"Yes. Magic."
"Are you out of your mind?"
There was a very good reason for Franche's incredulous reaction. Magic was not something just anyone could learn. Mages were exceedingly rare in this world, primarily because mastering the art required not only the innate talent to sense mana but also astronomical financial backing.
That was precisely why Somire had been so highly revered despite her commoner origins. Her exceptional magical talent was simply the result of her protagonist buff. According to the game's lore, she had been able to sense mana from the moment she was born and naturally understood complex magical formulas.
"Do not worry, Lady Franche. I have a plan."
"Are you going to find me a tutor? How?"
"I will be your tutor."
"...What?"
Franche's eyebrows twitched in disbelief.
"You know how to use magic too?"
"Not exactly, but I know all the secrets of magic in this world."
"Was there some secret manual in the Barenberg Kingdom's royal treasury?"
"Indeed."
Of course, that was a total lie. How the hell was I supposed to know if Barenberg had something like that?
Franche narrowed her eyes, thoughtfully stroking her chin.
"But is it really possible to teach magic just by knowing the contents of a manual?"
"It is surprisingly simple. Even if you lack the innate talent to sense mana, I can resolve that."
"Now I'm curious. So, what do I need to do?"
"Are you good at mathematics?"
"...Math?"
Franche turned her head away, her cheeks flushing slightly.
"...It's a bit embarrassing to admit, but far from math, I lack most basic knowledge. I never even received the standard education of the ducal house..."
Right. I figured as much. She had basically lived as an outcast in her own family; there was no way they would have provided her with a proper education.
"It is quite alright. I will teach you everything, step by step, from the very beginning."
"But why did you ask if I was good at math?"
"Because magical formulas are constructed of mathematics."
"...Really? As a layperson, that's news to me."
I had never taught anyone before, so I wasn't entirely confident, but I had to try. Before I became a MewTuber, I had actually been an excellent student. My parents had forced me to attend dozens of cram schools.
Thanks to that, I managed to get into Yonseol University, one of the most prestigious schools in Korea...
Perhaps because I was forced into it, I didn't seek employment immediately after graduation. My credentials were good enough to smash through the doors of almost any company, but since I hadn't rebelled during my childhood, I began my delayed adolescence as an adult. That was when I picked up gaming again—something I had loved and excelled at since I was a kid.
Well, in the end, I became a gaming MewTuber with a million subscribers, so it all worked out.
The only problem was that I ended up trapped in this world while recording a walkthrough video.
"First, let me explain the absolute basics."
I started by teaching Franche elementary-level math. Since it was still basic, she had no trouble understanding and solving the problems. It didn't take long at all.
"...Is this right?"
"Yes. Excellent. While these concepts are elementary, they form the bedrock of mathematics. Please keep them in mind."
Franche nodded. It seemed she could handle it so far.
Time for the next step.
Mathematics is actually a fascinating subject. Most students do make an effort to follow along when they first learn it. However, math education in Korea eventually devolves into rote memorization and deciphering convoluted word problems. That is the exact moment students tune out and lose interest.
Knowing this all too well, I intended to teach Franche the core principles of mathematics. Instead of just forcing her to memorize formulas, I would explain why those formulas were created and how they worked. That way, she wouldn't lose interest and would keep learning. Eventually, she would be able to comprehend magical formulas and cast spells.
Rather than lecturing her with tedious explanations, I threw her straight into practical application. Instead of giving her dry textbook problems, I used our immediate surroundings and everyday scenarios to create practical examples. They were quite challenging for someone with only basic arithmetic skills, but Franche solved them with ease. It was a tragedy that such a brilliant mind had been left to rot for so long.
"Let's stop here for today."
"Why? I can do more."
"Rest is an essential part of studying."
"Is it...? What a shame. It was actually fun."
I was glad she found my lessons enjoyable.
"Then, after a short break, we will try sensing mana."
"We've barely done anything, and I'm already going to sense mana?"
Hands-on experience is always the fastest way to learn.
"Now that you understand the basics, we are diving straight into practice. Throwing yourself into the deep end is far more effective than studying theory; it helps you grasp the concepts faster and develop your own intuition."
When I offered her a warm smile, a faint grin spread across Franche's face. She seemed to genuinely enjoy learning.
"It's strange. But fun."
"I am glad to hear that."
By the way, Franche's current level was probably around that of a seventh grader. At this rate, the moment she sensed mana, she would be able to cast basic utility spells. For instance, Cleanse, which purified the body, or Flash, which emitted a sudden burst of bright light.
There are countless basic spells, so she can just choose whichever one she likes.
Though we would have to find a book of magical formulas first.
"Then, let us rest for a moment—"
Just as I began to speak, SLAM! The door burst open with a deafening crash.
"Franche!"
It was Line Descartes. Had he come because of what happened yesterday?
"What brings you to my room...?"
"I came because of what you said yesterday! Did you honestly think I would believe that rubbish?!"
Why is he only arguing about this now, a whole day later? He should have disputed it on the spot.
"It took me some time to ask a nobleman I know, but I have obtained proof that you lied!"
"Proof?"
"Yes! He witnessed Young Duke Persia calling off the engagement, and he claims no such thing was ever mentioned!"
Franche turned her head to meet my gaze. Do I have to pull your strings again? It feels like she's becoming increasingly dependent on me.
Left with no choice, I whispered to her.
"Judging by his words, it seems Lord Line's acquaintance didn't stay long at the party."
"How can you be sure?"
"He didn't mention you slapping the Saintess yesterday, did he?"
"What does that have to do with anything?"
Line's brow was furrowing. I had to speak quickly.
"He only talked about the broken engagement. The hottest gossip of that party was you slapping the Saintess. If Lord Line knew about that, he would have used it to tear you apart. The fact that he hasn't mentioned it at all means his source must have left before the party ended."
As we continued to whisper, Line bellowed in frustration.
"What are you two whispering about right in front of me?! You're both equally insolent. I suppose a master and her slave really do take after each other!"
What is this dumbass even talking about?
I looked at Franche and nodded. Gaining confidence, she swallowed hard and spoke.
"It seems your acquaintance did not remain until the end of the party, brother."
"...What?"
"He didn't mention anything that occurred afterward, did he?"
"Well, no, but..."
"Then he must have slipped out early. It was only after his departure that Young Duke Persia revealed his... preferences."
"What...? That contradicts what you said yesterday! You clearly stated he said it when he called off the engagement...!"
Franche let out a soft chuckle.
"I suppose my memory was a bit hazy yesterday because I was flustered. I don't recall the exact details."
Having said her piece, she glanced at me. Her eyes practically screamed, Did I do well? I gave her a small nod, and the corners of her mouth twitched upward.
"You...!"
Line was utterly speechless. He was seething with rage, but since he didn't actually know the full story, he had no leverage to press further.
"I know you're lying just to wriggle out of this. This isn't over yet, so don't get comfortable. I'll investigate this myself!"
SLAM! Line took out his frustration on the door as he stormed out. What a volatile piece of work. What did Franche even do to deserve his constant tantrums?
Franche spoke, her voice laced with anxiety.
"What do we do now? What if he actually finds out...?"
"Did I not tell you there is no need to worry? The rumor is already spreading like wildfire across the Empire. It is already too late for anyone to uncover the truth."
"Really...? I can truly trust you on this...?"
I smiled warmly and nodded. Franche let out a long sigh of relief.
"Phew. He really startled me. Did you anticipate all of this?"
"I have observed your life here, Lady Franche. I have already figured out the personalities of the Descartes siblings."
"That's actually a bit goosebump-inducing. I can't tell if buying you was the best decision I've ever made, or the worst..."
Franche rubbed her arms as if she had actually gotten chills.
"Let us call it a wise purchase. An ally solely for you. I am merely executing your orders faithfully."
"Indeed. An ally solely for me. I like the sound of that. You are doing a wonderful job. And... you won't ever leave me alone, no matter what, right?"
Uh, I can't exactly promise you that.
"...I am on your side, Lady Franche."
"Yes. I'll have to keep you by my side for the rest of my life, by any means necessary."
That might be a bit problematic...
"Ahem. At any rate, our break is over, so let us try sensing mana."
"How do I do that?"
"Hmm."
I searched my memories. I was sure I had obtained that information back when I cleared a sub-quest that boosted magical stats.
Ah, I remember.
The method for sensing mana was identical to sensing Aura. Everyone possessed a certain constitution that determined whether they were suited for Aura or mana. It was just that very few people possessed the talent for mana. Franche, however, was bound to have it. After all, she appeared as a boss in the late-game scenario after aligning herself with Dark Magic.
But...
The problem was that I didn't actually know how to sense Aura either. Up until now, I had simply been relying on Jin's muscle memory and instincts.
"Hmm..."
"Is something troubling you?"
"I am just pondering how best to explain this to you."
"Is it that difficult?"
"It is not particularly difficult, but..."
The real issue is that I have absolutely no idea.
This isn't working.
No matter how hard I racked my brain, nothing came to mind. I had to find another way.
"Lady Franche."
"Yes?"
"You know where the information broker in the duchy is located, correct?"
"I do, but... why do you ask?"
"Let us pay them a visit."
"So suddenly? You just said we were going to sense mana."
Franche tilted her head in confusion.
"It is something we would have had to do eventually. Besides, this path will ultimately help you sense mana as well."
Though still full of questions, Franche reluctantly nodded.
"Alright. I'll introduce you to the broker I frequent. His name is Exeed. Though I'm sure it's an alias."
"That is perfect. Let us head there immediately."
Exeed, the information broker of the Descartes Duchy. I knew him all too well. He was one of the sub-male leads in Somire's reverse harem.
Considering what lies ahead, it's best to establish a connection with him now.
Because I was going to shake this entire Empire to its very foundations.