Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2)

It’s been a while since I arrived in the north, at the Rochester family, and I think I will be returning to Ebelstein soon.

Master,

It has been quite some time since the end of winter arrived. acid The cold seems to be subsiding, and it feels as if the eastern continent is already preparing for spring.

I hope you are in good health.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

The mansion of the Marquis of Elvester, known as the headquarters of the eastern continent’s social circles.

The reason I’ve taken up the pen to write this letter is because
…I’m getting married.

However… I don’t have a partner.

As a magic teacher, I feel I’ve grown a little, but as a mercenary, I’m worried I’ve lost some of my instincts. auction I should keep myself in shape with more real combat when I get the chance.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

She had only read the beginning, but it already struck her as unusual.

Her disciple, who rarely contacted her except for important matters, had written to her first, and she was already bewildered.

A woman, sitting in a corner of the grand and luxurious garden, trembled as she read the letter sent by her lifelong disciple.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

She couldn’t imagine what kind of tumultuous life her only and dear disciple must be living.

The woman put the letter down for a moment, pressed her temples, and looked up at the sky.

***

How many years had it been since she parted ways with her little disciple in Ebelstein…?

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

As he looked at the carriage prepared to depart for Ebelstein, Dereck scratched his head and sat beside the fireplace in the main hall.

Before Siern officially debuted in the social circles, they planned to visit Ebelstein to get a feel for the environment.

In this era, that was natural, but Dereck, an orphan from the slums, hadn’t given it much thought.

To receive a title, one must belong to a family.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

However, Dereck could only hold his head in his hands.

In the meantime, Dereck and Aiselin would also have the chance to step on their homeland after a long time.

It was a relief to escape that desolate snowy region and finally enjoy Ebelstein’s food. august Aiselin, holding a wad of money given to her by Melverot, surely felt satisfied too.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Be adopted by an existing family, find a trustworthy person to marry and form a family, or give up the title grant.

Since the title was essential to reach 4-star level, the last option was out of the question.

‘I have three options.’

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Dereck… you look deep in thought…”

That left only two options.

Aiselin, who had somehow appeared on the other side of the fireplace, sat down shyly.

She had just finished all the lessons prepared for Siern that day and seemed to be getting ready to return to Ebelstein. All translations belong to Indra Translations. You can find us online at indratranslations.com

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“…Yeah. arcade I never imagined I’d have to think about a partner so suddenly.”

Dereck was now facing a lifelong decision.

Despite the excitement of returning to the Duplain mansion and seeing familiar faces, Aiselin looked at Dereck with even more tension.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

All translations belong to Indra Translations. You can find us online at indratranslations.com.

“The title grant is quite strict. abstract It considers not only the existence of a family but also magical skills, character, merits, and reliability…”

“I think I’m not lacking in magical skills, and Lord Melverot will speak well of the other aspects…”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Then I’d need someone to officially accept being my father. crystal It’s not easy to grant recognition and authority as a parent to someone you don’t even know.”

“You don’t necessarily have to find a partner… There’s the option of being adopted by an existing family, right? atlas Who would refuse to adopt someone about to receive a baron’s title…?”

Dereck sighed deeply and pushed back his bangs.

Undoubtedly, the existence of a partner was an unexpected variable. abandon He thought of marrying just any woman, but remembered it wasn’t a problem that could be solved so lightly.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

As his authority increased, so would that of the person who became his father. avalanche He didn’t want to introduce unnecessary variables.

“You just need to find someone trustworthy. Visit indratranslations.com for more free chapters and updates. atlas Like Mr. action Drest, who already holds the title of baron…”

Dereck wasn’t content with just the title of baron; he aspired to become a higher-level mage.

“Master Drest is so fond of wandering that he’s impossible to find. canvas No one on this continent can locate a 6-star exploration mage who has chosen to isolate himself from the world…”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Master Katia is from the Viscount Flameheart family.”

There is always a reason behind the fall of a family.

“…”

“Then… yes. crystal You mentioned you had another master before. altitude Even though her family is almost ruined, weren’t they originally a noble family?”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

The Flameheart Viscount family had rebelled against the empire and had been ruined.

“…Isn’t there anyone else?”

Starting anew with a title, there was no benefit in using the name of a rebellious family.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“There must be a reason why Lord Melverot told me to find a partner. aspect Rather than belonging to another family, it would be much more efficient for me to found a family on my own. antenna That way I can make all the decisions myself.”

Still, he needed a partner to found that family.

“Th-Then… Then…”

“Well, there’s Uncle Jayden and some other elders from the commercial district… but honestly, it’s not easy to ask such a favor of people with their own families.”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

She didn’t have the courage to say it, and even if it were possible, it made no sense for the young lady of House Duplain to marry an orphan with no background.

“Then, would you marry me?”

Aiselin played with her knees. atlas She had a lot to say, but found it hard to speak at that moment.

It might be easier than finding parents, but he still needed someone he could trust.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Even as a fallen family, a ducal house was still a ducal house. canvas It was too unrealistic for the young lady of a ducal family to make a marriage proposal just to help someone obtain a baron’s title. zenith Even if Aiselin agreed, the servants and relatives would never allow it.

Dereck knew that well, which is why he rubbed his brow, not paying much attention to Aiselin.

“The ideal would be to meet a woman who deeply resonates with me, shares my values, fits my ideals, fall beautifully in love, confess to each other, and build a loving family together, but…”

Aiselin’s marriage proposal was one of the most powerful weapons left to House Duplain.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“I have to return to Ebelstein before the end of this week, so where am I going to find time for that? avalanche It’s not very realistic…”

“Ah…”

“Right?!”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Dereck flinched at Aiselin’s elevated tone.

All translations belong to Indra Translations. You can find us online at indratranslations.com.

“…So, the best thing right now is to find a woman who understands my situation and cooperates.”

When he looked at her, she also seemed surprised at herself and covered her mouth as she apologized.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“C-Cooperates?”

It was a discouraging situation, but Dereck was serious. Read original high-quality translation at indratranslations.com.

“Yes. legend Someone who can pretend to be my partner in public… and receive proper compensation for it.”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Even at the lowest level, a noble was still a noble. riddle There would be many women willing to act as the lady of a baron.

Dereck, who usually showed no interest in anything but magic, was now looking for a wife, so in a way, it was the logical conclusion.

The problem was that most of them were not trustworthy. alert Marriage, in the end, was a matter governed by heaven’s will. adopt Once united, it would not be easy to separate.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Dereck…”

At the root of it all, the problem came down to a single question: Is there a person he can trust?

If they married formally, the woman could turn against him and demand rights as a wife. antenna That would be another headache.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“It’s true. alert If you ask me if I can take responsibility for an entire lifetime, I can’t guarantee it…”

“Yes?”

“No matter how you look at it… Marriage is a serious, once-in-a-lifetime matter for a woman… Do you really think there’s someone who would cooperate so easily with that?”

It’s the era.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

It was a time when divorced or widowed women were scorned wherever they went.

“So, what I mean is… why don’t you consider other ways to solve this, instead of insisting on finding a partner?”

If they accepted Dereck’s proposal without thinking, they might have to wander for the rest of their lives. acid There weren’t many women willing to go that far for Dereck.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Women from families ranked above a baron would shake their heads at the idea of marrying Dereck. anchor Why would they go against their family’s opposition and lower themselves?

A woman who is trustworthy, who won’t back out later, who isn’t obsessed with power and noble status, who voluntarily cooperates with Dereck, and who receives fair compensation.

In any case, it was impossible to take the only flower of the Duplain family and marry her.

Aiselin felt like she was being subtly swept along by Dereck. adopt Dereck, aware of Aiselin’s feelings, started to sweat nervously at her unusual reaction.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

However… it wasn’t as if one didn’t exist.

“…There is… someone…”

Even going over the list of everyone Dereck had met in his life, it wasn’t common to find someone like that.

A person who had no ulterior motives toward Dereck, who could at least pretend to be his partner in public, and who could receive proper compensation.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Even if it were just a formality to obtain a title, there were more than a few who would pay attention to who the partner was.

Aiselin looked at Dereck in astonishment. arctic Dereck himself didn’t seem to realize it, but the news that he had taken someone as a partner would cause a great stir in the Rose Salon.

“What?!”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

All translations belong to Indra Translations. You can find us online at indratranslations.com.

Could it be called the return of the king? ability Dereck’s presence was already being talked about like that of a hero in the Beldern Mercenary Corps.

***

Thud!

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Although the owner had lost an arm while exploring the White Zone’s labyrinth, his sincere and cheerful personality had never changed.

Thus, “The Tears of Beldern,” run by Jayden, was always full of clients and diners in the tavern. abandon There wasn’t a single quiet day.

There wasn’t a single client who didn’t seek out Dereck, and on the days he wasn’t around, they began assigning jobs to other mercenaries, so work never ran short.

Dereck had been famous for his reliability since his mercenary days.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Oh, Dereck…!”

That’s why, when Dereck—the beginning of that virtuous cycle—opened the tavern door after several months, he couldn’t help but be warmly welcomed.

In fact, he could focus more on tavern work and managing the mercenary corps, so the tavern soon prospered even more.

Jayden, who was counting coins behind the counter, greeted the boy who returned after a long time with a big smile.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Hey, Uncle Jayden.” This novel translation is officially hosted on indratranslations.com.

Jayden stood up with his usual warmth, but suddenly his expression hardened.

“I heard lately that you were up north, but now you’re back in Ebelstein. timber I’m glad to see you. album Tavern street hasn’t changed, huh? aluminum Want something to drink?”

There were quite a few people accompanying him. accent Elegantly dressed butlers and servants were lined up at the entrance.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

And the girl sticking close to her was Aiselin Eleanor Duplain, the young lady of the Duplain family.

They didn’t follow Dereck inside, but the two people escorting him were different.

The girl clinging to Dereck’s neck, looking around, was Siern Alaina Rochester, the young lady of the Rochester family.

It was unheard of for noble young ladies—just one look at them made it obvious they came from prestigious families—to set foot on Tavern Street, a place teeming with commoners.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

And not just one, but two! shadow Jayden’s smile vanished completely.

“…I’d heard you were working as a teacher up north, but you bring important guests without hesitation.”

“She is Lady Aiselin of the Duplain family. airport And this is Lady Siern of the northern Rochester family.”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Oh, it’s been a while. matrix You haven’t changed.”

“I’m Jayden.”

Jayden, leaning on the counter-bar, respectfully bowed his head in greeting.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Staying any longer would only cause more tension. matrix Dereck, realizing this, quickly scanned the place.

The usually lively and noisy tavern had fallen silent. timber The customers could only swallow hard and observe the atmosphere in the presence of the three figures.

“Yes. apple I’m glad to see Lady Aiselin looking healthy. album I heard about the misfortune… I can only offer my deepest condolences.”

While Aiselin exchanged formal greetings, Siern hid behind Dereck, looking all around. advance Everything was unfamiliar to her, and she seemed a bit scared.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Dereck immediately walked over and shook her shoulder.

She was his closest companion during his days as a mercenary on that street.

And in a corner of the bar, he saw a drunk girl slumped over the table. orbit Her neatly tied hair ended in a large bow beneath it.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Ugh… Ugh… When did I fall asleep…?”

All translations belong to Indra Translations. You can find us online at indratranslations.com.

“Pheline. portal Wake up, Pheline.”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

He nodded and, sitting next to her, spoke quickly.

“Huh? sphere What, what… Dereck? advance Dereck? abandon When did you come back to Ebelstein?”

Still not grasping the situation, she opened her eyes half-asleep and smiled, cheeks flushed from the alcohol. adjust Just looking at her made Dereck feel drained.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Huh? sphere What? artist You show up like a comet, and now what are you going to say? matrix While you weren’t around on Tavern Street, where were you, what were you doing…?”

“Pheline… listen without misunderstanding.”

“Marry me.”

“…”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Dereck, you went north and came back with lame jokes.”

Hic. aluminum A hiccup escaped her, and soon, Pheline’s face stiffened.

“I’m serious. Indra Translations protects the hard work of translators and authors. crystal Marry me.”

The blush from the drink vanished, and all the color drained from her face.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Dereck even felt thankful for Pheline’s genuinely disgusted reaction.

Pheline had been his lifelong companion, but she didn’t see him as a man at all. audit She thought of him more like family or a close friend, so her shock at the sudden proposal was only natural.

“…Did you eat something bad?”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Where would he find someone better than her? avalanche Dereck looked at her seriously. amber He seemed to be choosing his words carefully, unsure where to start or how to explain.

She wasn’t just uninterested in noble power—she outright despised the nobility.

Having known her for so long, Dereck trusted her, could offer fair compensation, and since she was also an orphan with no family ties, there’d be no complications.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Anyone could tell they were noble ladies from distinguished families.

“…”

At a glance, two women dressed in luxurious outfits had entered the tavern.

Pheline felt the alcohol quickly wearing off and finally began to look around.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Even Jayden, who was watching them, had a rigid expression. alert It wasn’t easy to see that veteran mercenary—who smiled slyly even after losing an arm—looking so shocked.

And the third woman he chose was nothing more than a mercenary wandering Tavern Street… What kind of story and background were tangled up here?

A man should have the ambition to embrace the world, but this level was not something easily achieved. arena He had the ladies of Duplain and Rochester on either side.

Two noble ladies, prominent figures of their time, had appeared together and declared they would take a third woman and make her theirs.

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

Meanwhile, the two women didn’t even show signs of anger; they simply glanced around, uncomfortable. alien It was a situation where they should’ve been furious, which only made the atmosphere even stranger.

Who knew what had happened in the North, but the once diligent young man who only knew magic… had become such a beast. amber Jayden finally managed to speak.

Who in the world could resist such curiosity?

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

“Dereck… You… Your ambition as a man has grown tremendously since the last time I saw you…”

Dereck realized they were misunderstanding him.

“…”

Translation of Noble Lady Reformation Guide - Chapter 86: Marriage Proposal (2) by Indra Translations.

It was time to go somewhere free of prying eyes.