Regrettably, although Nanali is quite astute, she has yet to reach the level of genius. As for the magicians, although they have not taught Nanali the proper methods of spellcasting, this oversight should not be attributed solely to their fault. Originally, the human race was not endowed with a plethora of elemental magic, possessing at most the holy magic used by church priests or paladins. Most of the magic now practiced by humans has been learned from elves to combat the dark arts of demonic foes.
The elves, who consider magic foundational to their existence, have never disclosed their more arcane spells to humanity. Were it not for the pressing circumstances of that era, the elves would likely have kept even the most basic spells to themselves. However, the foundational spells they did teach were handed down under strict conditions. The first stipulation was the prohibition of spreading these spells through copying, ensuring that those dispatched by the Empire to learn from the elves could only teach others verbally.
Despite the widespread availability of magical texts on the black market, all are deemed forbidden and punishable by death upon discovery. A significant portion of those sent to study magic were ultimately divided among the noble families of the Empire, tasked with instructing their own kin. Others were deployed within the military to teach magic, while a small number ventured among the common folk.
Over time, as noble hands' grip on magical teachings began to wane, the lingering traditions became tightly controlled, never to be shared outside their circles. The internal decay of the Empire caused many military mages to be poached by nobles, leaving the bulk of the army ignorant even of elementary spells—a stark departure from the original intent behind sending envoys to the elves. The freelance mages who mingled among the people gradually faded from memory as well.
Such thoughts always stir a sense of melancholy in Laine, who laments the current king's feebleness and the mismanagement of opportunities. If only the prince were in charge...
"What are you thinking about?"
Nanali's voice snapped Laine back to reality. Arranging his thoughts, he began, "The teachings from your mentor are sound, yet regrettably, they do not suit your unique constitution."
"Constitution?"
"Yes, magic is a profound affair. Each individual's magical conduits differ, as do their methods of spellcasting. A uniform method cannot accommodate everyone."
Laine explained in layman's terms, to which Nanali quickly grasped the underlying message, her eyes brightening. "So, it means I'm not devoid of magical talent?"
"Correct."
Laine nodded with a smile. "While it may seem that only a few possess magical talent, the truth is quite the contrary. It's simply that our current teaching methods are too rigid, causing many potential talents to miss their chance."
Listening intently, Nanali straightened up, absorbing every word.
"In my view, Miss, not only do you possess magical talent, but it is also quite significant."
"Really?" Although Nanali attempted to contain her emotions, her excitement bubbled to the surface.
"True or false, you'll know once you try casting a spell using the method I'll teach you."
Laine patiently explained that her physique might better suit a summoner than a traditional mage. A summoner does not use magic as a mere tool of warfare but rather a means to command and manipulate, demonstrated as Laine conjured a dancing flame sprite.
Seeing Nanali's unwavering gaze, Laine commented with a gentle smile, "Quite fascinating, isn't it?"
As she nodded subconsciously, then halted herself, her face flushed slightly.
Observing her reaction, Laine spared her further embarrassment. "Summoners wield magic through 'control'—regard your magic as a living entity and command it as a sovereign would."
Enlightened by Laine's words, Nanali began to refine her own magic, her eyes closing naturally. When she reopened them, a lively, dancing flame emerged in her palm, contrasting sharply with the faint sparks from before, now vibrant as if possessing life itself.
"Laine, I did it!"
His name from her lips and her genuine smile touched Laine deeply, an innocence in her voice previously masked by formality.
Feeling her gaze, Nanali quickly moderated her joy, her cheeks tinged redder, "I mean… Thank you…"
"There's no need for formalities, Miss, after all, I am your personal butler."
Acknowledging this shift in their relationship, Laine ventured, "Miss, it seems you've been wary of me. Have I done something to earn your distrust?"
"Not… It's just… When old Lam fell ill, you weren't here. The day he passed, you returned, making it hard for me to trust you," she confessed.
"And now?"
"Now… I'll try, just a bit, to trust you…" she murmured, turning away shyly.