I cant believe that its already gone, I didnt know

Well, you cant know whats going on if youre just skimming the news.

I was starting to feel sorry for her.

Liz Cather told me that she was studying without sleep.

That was why her grades were always at the top of the class. Her name was always placed under the Dukes name on the academic exam posters.

I knew she was putting in significant effort, but I just couldnt help but think that Alicias name would have been at the top of the list, so I couldnt help but compare her with Alicia.

Hey, Gilles, will you teach me how to study?

A soft, sweet smell wafts through the air. I was so disgusted with Liz Cather, but now I find myself getting attracted to her.

I wondered if she had no pride in asking someone younger than her to teach her how to study. Is she willing to give up on her pride to learn about the world?

And what do I get in return?

I do not have the power to heal your broken heart, Gilles. But I would like to get to know you better.

We were completely at odds with each other. I knew there was no point in talking any further, but I couldnt move my legs. I found myself feeling comfortable at her side.

And my heart wasnt broken.Im no longer bothered about the terrible things that happened to me in the impoverished village when I was younger. That was how much love Alicia had poured into me.

I would like to shout out, Dont decide on your own, but for some reason I couldnt say anything when I imagined the pained expression on Liz Cathers face.

What in the world was this? It was my body, but I was unable to control it.

Gilles.

Hearing that clear, low voice, I felt as if my body was suddenly lightened.

Dukes voice.

What are you doing here?

He stared quizzically at Liz Cather. Her face twitches a little.

Nothing. I was just having a conversation with Gilles.

So youre done talking?

Yes. Yes, I was thinking that I would like to learn from Gilles.

She raised the corners of her mouth slightly and smiled softly.

Why would she be so happy to learn from me? It was a little creepy.

I never said anything about teaching you.

Eh?

But you just asked me what I could do for you in return, not what you could teach me

Liz Cather, the watchdog. Suddenly, the word popped into my head.

I see, I might need to fulfill Alicias role. I would have to be the one to carry on what she had started.

Gilles?

Liz Cather looked at me suspiciously as I suddenly stopped talking.

Okay. Ill teach you. But you have to be serious about following me.

Sure!

Her face lit up, and Duke just looked at Liz Cather coldly, not surprised.

Thank you! Ive got a special class now!

She left with a wave of her hand.

It was tough being someone who could use all attributes.

You shouldnt see her when shes alone.

Duke muttered quietly after Liz Cather was out of sight.

Why not?

Gilles doesnt have any magic powers at all.

With that one word, he had it all figured out.

I wondered if the strange sensation I had just experienced had been caused by her charm magic. I didnt have any magic power. So, I couldnt resist her magic, not even a little.

Well, I guess you were able to resist quite well for someone with zero magic power.

Thats a compliment, right? I feel like Im being made fun of.

Duke grinned at my words.

Oh, I already knew that Duke had this personality. He was never a taciturn, cool prince.

Youve been under the protection of Alicias magic for a long time. Well, she was probably doing it unconsciously.

Duke said quietly, staring off into the distance.