Chapter 141: The Visit of Imperial Prince Ernst

(The first part is from Prince Ernst’s perspective.)

“I apologize for failing to meet Your Highness’s expectations.” Charlotte, the daughter of Count Trier, bowed her head. She was the coordinator for the girls who participated in the mission from the Empire.

“No, raise your head, Lady Charlotte. Everyone did well. It failed only because our prior information was incorrect, and because the Kingdom values Lord William far more than we imagined.”

After Charlotte withdrew, I spoke with the Minister of Foreign Affairs. “I thought that if we surrounded him with girls who possessed both beauty and talent, and conveyed that the Empire—which prioritizes domestic affairs—highly evaluates Production Skills, he would think the Empire a more comfortable place than the Kingdom. It seems that was naive.” “Indeed. It appears Lord William is already solidified by beautiful and excellent girls on his side. That was unexpected.”

“Truly. To think even a Princess was included among them. Furthermore, I had heard that Kingdom nobles only cared for swords and magic, but it seems King Edgar II holds enlightened views.” “Yes. We should have been more informed about the movements of the Albion Kingdom.”

“Ah. In that case, we have no choice but to convey our sincerity through a direct approach. Could you request a meeting with the Fairchild Margrave and Lord William?” “Understood.”

(Perspective returns to William)

A request for a meeting arrived from Prince Ernst of the Empire. “I thought this might happen, but not this quickly.” Father was surprised. “We cannot refuse. Let us report this to His Majesty and then meet with His Highness the Prince.”

Several days later, Prince Ernst, accompanied by the Imperial Minister of Foreign Affairs and Imperial Knights acting as guards, arrived at the Fairchild Margrave family’s mansion in the Royal Capital. We guided them to the drawing room.

“I apologize for the sudden intrusion. Margrave Fairchild, Lord William.” “No, we are grateful for the opportunity to meet with His Highness the Imperial Prince. We are humbled that you have taken the trouble to visit our home today.” “It is an honor to meet you, Your Highness.”

After the greetings and a bit of ceremonial small talk, the Prince immediately cut to the chase. “I dislike beating around the bush. Let me speak frankly about the reason for my visit.” I wonder what the reason is. I can’t stop my nervousness.

“I heard that it was you, Lord William, who saved the Kingdom from poor harvests caused by drought and created the specific remedy for tuberculosis. Your Production Skill is magnificent.” “Thank you very much.”

“The truth is, due to the cold, the Empire is suffering from poor harvests of both wheat and rye. We are also struggling with an epidemic of tuberculosis.” Ah, so the Empire is also suffering from abnormal weather and infectious diseases. Come to think of it, national borders don’t matter when it comes to the effects of the World Tree‘s weakening.

“That is why I wish to invite you, Lord William, to the Empire. If you would come to the Empire, we are prepared to welcome you as royalty.” Prince Ernst looked straight into my eyes.

“Please, come to the Empire and help us with your outstanding Production Skill. I beg of you.” To my surprise, Prince Ernst bowed his head.

I never imagined he would speak so straightly. I thought he might ask me to come to the Empire, but I expected the usual maneuvering common among royalty and nobility.

I hold a very favorable impression of Prince Ernst‘s direct attitude. However, I have precious people in the Kingdom, and I cannot leave the World Tree and the Elves. How should I refuse?

As I was troubled over how to reply, Father spoke on my behalf. “Your Highness, please raise your head. We are truly grateful that you evaluate my son so highly.”

Saying so, Father bowed his head as well. I see; we can’t let only the Prince bow. I also bowed, saying, “It is an undeserved honor.”

“It is a very grateful offer, but His Majesty the King has already promised to ennoble my son as a Viscount, and our family has served the Albion Royal Family for a long time. It would be quite difficult to suddenly switch allegiance to the Empire.” I see. I don’t need to mention the World Tree; refusing based on noble logic works.

“I see. I find the Fairchild Margrave’s loyalty to the Royal Family admirable. However, I hear that although Lord William is to be ennobled as a Viscount, his territory will be the southern undeveloped lands. If you come to the Empire, we shall prepare a vast territory near the capital.”

The Prince knows even that much? “I express my deep gratitude for Your Highness’s kindness toward my son. However, regarding the southern undeveloped lands becoming his territory, it is by no means a case of the Royal Family forcing inconvenient land upon him.”

“Developing undeveloped lands is a hardship. You say it is not a demotion?” I answered the Prince’s question myself. “Yes. While I consider Your Highness’s invitation truly grateful and an honor, I cannot leave the western part of the Kingdom.”

“Actually, His Majesty the King offered him territory near the Royal Capital, but my son desired the undeveloped lands as his territory.” “What? Is that true?” “Yes. It is as my father said.”

“Is there some reason for this?” How should I explain? Is it okay to talk about the World Tree? As I hesitated, Father answered for me again.

“Yes, there are special circumstances. However, we are terribly sorry, but as it is designated a State Secret, please forgive us for not being able to speak of it to Your Highness at our own discretion.”

Father bowed deeply. I bowed along with him. Will the Prince be angry that we cannot explain the circumstances?

“Please, raise your heads. If it is a State Secret, it cannot be helped. It seems there is indeed some important reason. I understand that you cannot easily migrate to the Empire.”

Ah, Prince Ernst seems to be a good person. It is a shame I cannot go to the Empire and cooperate with him. After bowing to the Prince once more, I left the room with Father.

At this moment, I was relieved, thinking the matter was settled. However, this issue would not end so simply.