“Yes, what’s external doesn’t matter.”
I blinked, letting those words sink in. For some reason, a warm sensation welled up within my chest.
“Just because you make mistakes doesn’t mean your inner self changes. People’s criticism can’t affect you. Instead, you should use failure as a lesson to grow. Failure is an opportunity!”
“That’s true…”
Even if I didn’t perform well in this magic presentation, I could show a better magic skill next time. Or, perhaps I’d grow internally, gaining more confidence to present myself.
“Learn to love yourself more. You are noble beyond anything else, and nothing can truly affect you.”
“Was it that I lacked self-esteem?”
“That could be it. But from now on, your top priority must be yourself. Don’t let others sway you.”
Surprisingly, Arkhangelo’s words helped me more than I’d expected.
I couldn’t suddenly gain confidence, but realizing that I was the only one who could truly affect my inner self made me feel more grounded.
I had always wanted to become a stronger person—someone unbreakable, no matter what.
“Being yourself, nothing else; that’s the simplest, yet most important thing.”*
*Virginia Woolf, A Room of One’s Own
Understanding Arkhangelo’s mindset made me feel like I was one step closer to becoming that person.
“Thank you, Arkhangelo.”
When I looked him in the eyes and said that, he turned his head with a feigned indifference.
“Hmph! It’s only natural to help someone who’s feeling down! I have a duty to look after you!”
“Really? Why is that?”
I playfully asked, wanting to hear the word ‘friend’ from his mouth. Archangelo stammered.
“Because you are my c… c-…”
“C-?”
“A cousin-like presence!”
“Pfft!”
I couldn’t help but burst out laughing at his words.
Though Arkhangelo protested with a flushed face, his expression was simply too amusing.
“Anyway, thank you, Arkhangelo. This time, I was the one who received help.”
“It’s only natural to repay the kindness of those who have helped me.”
“Is that so? Then I guess it’s my turn to return the favor next time? Either way, I’ve learned something valuable thanks to you.”
I extended my hand to Arkhangelo, and he took it for a handshake.
Yes, it’s okay if I can’t present a new spell at the magic competition.
After all, I am a talented mage, and even showcasing a well-practiced, existing spell would still appear impressive to others.
Even if it doesn’t seem impressive in others’ eyes, does it really matter? Objectively speaking, I am still an outstanding mage.
After Arkhangelo left, I calmed myself and looked down at the spatial magic tome. Yes, let’s study a spell that looks dazzling and impressive.
At that moment, a thought flashed through my mind.
Wait a minute. Even though the mathematics in this world might be similar to mine…
There are proofs that require a computer.
Ah, I think I might have the answer now.
“Ghieuspe, Ghieuspe!”
“What is it?”
“Could you check if this spell exists here?”
If this spell doesn’t exist in this world, it could be quite an interesting discovery.
***
While Ghieuspe stayed close to Seraphina, offering magical assistance, and Simone lingered nearby, Raffaelo and Arkhangelo unintentionally ended up spending time together.
“Arkhangelo, what are you up to?”
“Hmm, I was just thinking that once I return, I should decorate my mansion like this.”
“What do your sisters think?”
“….……”
As they chatted, Raffaelo glanced at Arkhangelo.
This friend, who had always seemed immature and difficult, had grown a lot over the course of their journey together.
“Impressive, as always.”
“What are you talking about?”
“You’re always improving.”
Even while saying something so cheesy, Raffaelo grinned without a hint of embarrassment.
“There aren’t many people around me with talents as strong as yours.”
“This greatness of mine is only natural.”
“And it’s rare to find someone with such a distinct personality as well…”
Hearing this, Arkhangelo finally looked seriously at Raffaelo.
“Why are you saying that?”
“What?”
“It sounded like you were jealous of me.”
“Did it? Well, it’s true.”
Raffaelo leaned back in his chair, continuing.
“I’m actually worried about what Allan said.”
“You mean about entering politics in Cassan?”
“Yes, honestly, Allan’s offer might be the biggest opportunity I’ll ever get.”
“But I think you’re talented. Who knows what paths might open up for you.”
“I’m not sure. Honestly, I chose this path to defy my family; I don’t think I have any exceptional talent. Among us, magic is Ghieuspe’s forte, physical combat is Simone’s, and the arts are, of course, yours.”
Arkhangelo felt a bit strange. After all…
“That’s funny. It’s the same feeling I had not too long ago.”
“Oh, you mean inferiority?”
“Don’t put it so bluntly!”
After a small outburst, Arkhangelo cleared his throat and continued.
“I used to feel conflicted about not being able to fight alone. But after listening to Seraphina, I stopped viewing myself that way.”
“Oh, I know. You’re talking about when we caught that bandit, right?”
“Why did you pretend not to know, even though you did?”
“I figured acting oblivious was better for your pride. Wasn’t it?”
“Hmph, you were half right.”
“Well, I’ll aim to be half right next time too.”
They continued their serious conversation with nonchalant expressions.
“Anyway, Arkhangelo, you’re not the only one who feels that way. Sometimes, I feel like I’m just average too.”
“That’s odd. But if we all feel insecure, doesn’t that mean none of us are actually inferior?”
“Does it? Haha!”
Raffaelo laughed lightly, looking at Arkhangelo with a cheerful expression.
Yes, Arkhangelo had indeed grown. Now, he could even comfort others.
“You’re going to continue with your singing, right?”
“Yes, my dream is certain.”
“I’m not so sure about continuing in the military. Sometimes, I feel like I’m too uncertain.”
Hearing this, Arkhangelo gave him a look as if he were watching something a bit silly.
“Isn’t that obvious? We’re still young.”
“Huh?”
“We’re allowed to be uncertain.”
Raffaelo smiled slightly.
It felt as if his worries about the future had lightened a little.
Of course, he’d still need to think carefully about what would be the best choice realistically…
“I never thought you’d say something like this. You’ve really grown.”
“D-don’t tease me!”
While they were playfully talking, Raffaelo’s eyes widened as he pointed in one direction.
“That…!”
“Hm?”
“It’s a hint from Aurora!”
Under Arkhangelo’s fireplace was the box Aurora used to leave hints!
Arkhangelo and Raffaelo exchanged glances. Had Aurora really managed to sneak all the way to the palace?
They stood in stunned silence for a while, until Raffaelo finally spoke.
“Let’s stay quiet about this until Seraphina’s magic presentation is over.”
“A good idea. We don’t want to get distracted by this.”
