Chapter 24

The First Prince leaned back in his chair. Being inconspicuous is sometimes the most troublesome thing. Someone who gathers the trust of those around him before you notice is far harder to handle than someone who appears openly as an enemy. Moreover, the fact that it was that younger brother stuck with me strangely. (Was he that kind of man…?)

When was the last time I exchanged words directly with him? The First Prince suddenly searched his memory. If I recall correctly—it was that time. I feel I said something a little harsh. I intended it as advice. I also intended to admonish him for his naivety. I preached on how a royal should be. But the one thing I remember clearly is that Leonhart‘s expression as he left was strangely dark. At that time, it looked as though he was about to say something, but swallowed it. Was it since then? No, surely not, I dismissed the thought myself. Nothing could possibly change due to words of that level. That was what I thought.

However, when I caught a glimpse of him at the soirée, I certainly felt a sense of incongruity. Silver hair unique to the Royal Family, and blue eyes filled with tranquility. His slightly tall stature can be spotted immediately even from afar. Even in a crowd, he naturally enters one’s field of vision. That Leonhart was exchanging words with a noble at length. That was a rare sight. Until now, his greetings were polite, but his conversations were short. He did not step in more than necessary, nor did he allow others to step in. Yet, he was listening to the other party’s story and occasionally returning words himself. I could tell even from a distance. It wasn’t just socializing. He was talking. (Rare…) I should have only thought that, but that scene remained strangely in my memory.

Perhaps. Since that dark expression as he left—he might have begun to change.

The figure of Lady Lydia of the Crawford family staring at Leonhart during the soirée as if glaring at him left a strange impression on me. Chestnut hair tinged with a burning red, and sharp, shining amber eyes. That was closer to irritation than hostility. They were eyes that seemed to be appealing for something with just their gaze. Her movements after that were, honestly speaking, incomprehensible, though. Just when I thought she had left the venue with determination, she returned a while later with her shoulders slumped. Her expression was also sunken, as if her earlier spirit had been a lie. Apparently, her scheme had failed.

But—a story that reached my ears at a later date stuck with me strangely. They say Lady Lydia and Leonhart are exchanging letters. After that soirée. After directing such an expression at him, letters? My understanding could not catch up. But at the same time, I was strangely curious.

Opportunities to hear the Third Prince‘s name increased, and along with that, the tone of voice of the nobles approaching me changed. “He will eventually become an eyesore.” “Perhaps we should take measures now.” “Eliminate him quickly—” There were even those who spoke such words as if it were natural. It is unnecessary. I say nothing regarding that topic. I neither affirm nor deny. I simply let it pass. Because that is a discussion unrelated to the benefit of the country. Emotions between members of the Royal Family or the speculations of nobles do not matter.

Purity or impurity, I do not pick and choose. If the country moves forward, that is fine. That is my governance.

However, there is just one thing I cannot yield. My deceased fiancée said this at the very end. —Please take care of the country. She did not say she wanted me to welcome a new person. Nor did she say she wanted me to fill the space beside me with someone. Since then, the space beside me has remained blank. However, there is no need for anyone to understand that. Succession to the throne can be managed through the system. I have already thought of a form where no hindrance occurs to the country’s future. Bloodline, system, and state management. That is exactly why, as the one who will inherit this country, I will serve the country to the utmost.

But, even so. My heart alone remains as it was then. The duties as a ruler, and the feelings as a single human being. Holding both, I will ascend the throne. …Forgiveness for oneself is something everyone needs.