I AM A MAGE BUT WITH MILF SYSTEM

Julian made his way to Alden's room, his curiosity rising as he noticed the gathered crowd inside. His mother, Regina, Alice, Eva, Eleanor, his grandmother, and others were all there.

It seemed like some major discussion was taking place.

As he entered the room, the eyes of everyone in the room fell on him, and he could sense that everyone there was excited.

Alden was the first to speak, "Come in, Julian. We were having a family discussion," he said warmly.

Eleanor joined in with a smile, "Congrats, Julian!"

Julian tilted his head in confusion. "For what?" he asked, a hint of suspicion in his voice.

The room fell into a brief silence, and Regina smiled gently.

"For your victory, Julian. We all know how hard you fought for it, and now, your first victory is celebrated by all of us."

Alice nodded, "Your name is already spreading throughout the lands."

Julian's gaze flickered around the room, assessing the others' expressions. It was clear they were genuinely proud of him.

However, despite their excitement, he couldn't shake the feeling that something more was going on. He was used to their praise, but this time it felt like there was something deeper behind their smiles.

He walked further into the room, and his eyes locked with Alden's.

"Well, I appreciate the recognition," Julian said, still unsure of the exact reason for this sudden gathering. "But we already celebrated it, did we not?"

"Julian," Alden began, his voice calm but heavy.

"I have been a duke for far too long. Although I started in the battlefield and have seen many wars and violence, I have always wished for myself and my family to live a peaceful life. Maybe because of that, it has clouded my judgment, and I have grown too weak."

There was a pause, and Julian stood silently, understanding the burden he had carried.

Alden's hands were resting on the table, clenched slightly, as if holding onto something he had never wanted to let go of. His gaze was tired, but there was also something else—relief, perhaps, or a sense of clarity that had emerged after years of struggle.

The room was silent, each person processing the weight of Alden's confession. Julian's eyes remained fixed on his father. He could see the years of ruling, the constant pressure, and the burdens of leadership had all taken their toll.

The toll wasn't just on his body, but on his spirit.

At the same time, he could also see something else, maybe happiness and even freedom in his eyes, as if this decision of letting go was exactly what he needed.

Alden sighed deeply. His hands rested on the table. "Because of my carelessness, one of my most trusted soldiers betrayed me. Even then, I was considering pardoning him. But I realize now that if not for you, Julian, our family and legacy would have been wiped off the face of the earth. The mistakes I have made, the hesitations in my judgment—they have cost us dearly. I have grown soft and weak in my position, and it's time I let go."

He met his son's eyes, and there was both pride and regret in his gaze. "I can no longer carry this burden, Julian. I know that you are ready. I am thinking of stepping down and passing my title as Duke to you."

Everyone looked at each other, stunned by the suddenness of the declaration. Everyone was gathered here, thinking that Julian was about to get rewarded for his victory, but this was something else.

Gregoria was the first to break the silence. "Alden, are you sure about this?"

Alden's gaze never wavered from Julian's. "Yes, mother. I have thought about this long. Julian is more than capable of handling this title. He has the strength, the will, and the ambition to take our family to heights I never could. Julian is the future of the Easvil family."

His words hung heavy in the air, and even Julian, usually confident, was momentarily caught off guard by the weight of the responsibility.

He could feel the weight of his father's trust resting on his shoulders, but also the love and respect that had long been between them.

Eleanor, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke. "Father... if this is what you truly want, then we will support you. But... it's hard to imagine the Duchy without you leading us."

Gregoria nodded slowly, her eyes fixed on Alden's face. "You have been a great Duke, Alden. But I understand. Perhaps it is time for the new generation to lead."

Alden smiled faintly, looking at each member of his family. His gaze lingered on Julian for a moment longer.

"I have led long enough. I want to see you, Julian, take the lead. It's your time now."
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Julian stood silently, absorbing the moment. He could sense that the decision wasn't easy for his father, but it was a decision that had to be made.

"Thank you, Father," Julian said finally, his eyes flaring with determination. "I won't let you down."

Alden turned to one of the soldiers standing nearby. "Send a message to the royal palace," he ordered.

"The Duchy of Easvil will see its new Duke. Invite all the important figures—dukes, marquises, counts, anyone of significance. We will celebrate Julian's inauguration in grand fashion. Decorate the entire duchy, and for the next ten days, the celebration will be a festival in his honor."

The soldier bowed respectfully and immediately left the room, heading to deliver the orders.

Alden's gaze softened as he turned back to Julian. "This is your moment, Julian. I have seen the power you have gained, and now let the people see their new Duke in full glory."

Julian nodded, understanding the weight of the occasion. The dream he had envisioned for himself was slowly getting fulfilled, and he was more than prepared for the role.

As the message was sent and preparations began, everyone in the room could feel their anticipation building.

The next chapter for the Easvil family was about to begin, and Julian would ensure it would be one of strength, power, and rise.