Lord Winterborne's expression showed his disappointment, but it was clear that he wasn't going to press any further. Nobility had a certain pride that didn't permit them to beg or grovel, particularly in cases like recruiting.
However, it didn't seem it was the case for the Lady.
"So what now? You plan on finding work in town?" she asked, her sapphire-like blue eyes shimmering from the glowing light of the lantern.
Michael could hear a small edge in her tone. It was clear that he might have offended her with his refusal, but he would just have to deal with the consequences. If the Lady wanted to curse him or call him ungrateful, he could take it.
After all, he'd experienced worse in these past few weeks alone.
"Yes my lady," he replied respectfully.
"What kind of work would such a young and skinny boy be capable of in town? You don't look like a skilled laborer, nor does it seem that you're well versed in magic despite being an Ember mage." She retorted, looking his skinny body up and down.
While her words might appear harsh, they were the truth. Apart from some basic chore magic, Michael knew next to nothing. His body was also weak thanks to malnutrition, he would certainly have difficulty finding a job in town.
"Mary… That's enough." The Lord said softly, placing a hand upon her arm.
However, she ignored his words.
"What if we offered you a job?" Mary Winterborne asked, her jaw jutting out in defiance.
"Sorry?" Michael replied incredulously.
She had just pointed out that he was basically inept, yet now she wanted to offer him a job? Michael felt like he was performing mental gymnastics trying to keep up with the conversation.
None of it made sense.
"I'm saying, we'll give you a job and a place to stay. I can't possibly let such a wonderful young man like yourself go live on the streets."
Michael was stunned. Why was this woman so intent on helping him? What was in it for her?
"Honey… Give the kid a break," Lord Winterborne said, wearing a frown, "he clearly has his own pride that won't allow him to accept."
"Pride!?" she scoffed, "you men and your damn pride. Is it something you can eat? Does it keep you warm at night?" Mary huffed, her eyes narrowing.
Michael gulped as he watched the lord and lady begin to argue back and forth, realizing he might have inadvertently created a rift between the two. All he could do was sit back awkwardly, waiting for them to finish.
Then suddenly, the argument returned to him.
"Michael, why won't you take our good grace? All I'm offering is a job and a place to stay, you'll be just like one of our butlers and maids. There is no shame in taking on such a position, and we'd never ask anything degrading of you." Mary Winterborne stated, this time her eyes were pleading.
"Okay…" Michael replied reflexively.
"Okay?"
The lord and lady froze, their gazes moving to one another as they each wore a confused expression. After the back and forth argument, the pair had obviously not expected him to agree to easily.
In fact, Michael was not opposed to working for the Winterborne's, he had just been taken aback by the offer. He could accept living in the mansion as long as he felt like he was contributing.
Since they won't be using their resources on me, they shouldn't be disappointed if I only end up with red rings, Michael reasoned.
His inner thoughts were interrupted by laughter at the other end of the table. When he raised his gaze, he saw both the lord and lady holding hands, laughing together as if they'd heard the funniest joke in the world.
"Forgive me, Michael. It seems that I had misunderstood your morals for something as shallow as pride." Lord Winterborne stated, shaking his head.
"I understand now that you refuse to accept charity despite your young age, that is a very noble thing." He explained, "However, keep in mind we still have high hopes for you. While we'll put you to work, I expect you to attend magic tutoring alongside Melody, this is a non-negotiable."
Magic tutoring? Michael's ears perked up.
His mother had tutored him before, but she was limited on what she could teach because of his own strength. Since he only possessed a single white ring at the time, Michael could hardly even be called a mage.
But now he was much stronger. It meant he could learn far more magic theory and even put it into practice. The prospect caused his heart to beat faster in his chest.
"I understand. Thank you for your kindness." Michael said, standing up from his chair and bowing deeply, showing his gratitude.
"Wonderful!" Mary clapped her hands together, wearing a bright smile. Her beauty was radiating, lighting up the entire room.
Michael inadvertently felt his cheeks heat up, but he did his best to hide it.
"Shirley, will you take Michael to the servant's quarters and get him settled for the night?" She asked.
In an instant, the young maid appeared and curtsied, "Of course, my lady."
Michael then felt a strong pair of hands on his shoulders, "Come, I'll show you around your new home." The maid said, though Michael detected an edge to her tone.
Unable to fight against the strength of the young woman, Michael was whisked towards the door before he could speak another word.
"Oh and Shirley…" The Lord's voice called, causing her to stop in place.
"Yes, my lord?"
"Don't be too harsh on him. Despite being so young, he has a sense of propriety and a strong moral compass." He stated.
"Understood."
Michael raised an eyebrow in question, but he was swiftly taken out into the hallway before the door was shut behind them.
Shirley let out a deep sigh, before she went down to one knee, appearing on his level.
"You stubborn child. You could have been set up for life, but you let your own ideals get in the way…" She said, giving him a stern look. But before he could respond, she sighed once more and ruffled his hair affectionately, a smile creeping onto her face.
"But I guess that's part of your charm," she stated with a laugh. "Let's go, I'll get you settled in for the night."
"R-Right."