Chapter 149 : Flora and Will

(Time rewinds a little; this is an episode from shortly before the Kingdom answers the proposal from the Empire.)

Shortly after Earl Cardiff informed us of the proposal from the Empire, contact came from the Royal Family. His Majesty and Princess Flora wished to speak with us.

Furthermore, they wanted us to come to the Royal Castle immediately if possible. It was surely about the proposal from the Empire. My father and I hurriedly went to Linkstar Castle.

When we arrived at the castle, a chamberlain was waiting to guide us. The destination was not the usual audience chamber, but deeper inside the castle. “Father, this is…” “Umu. It appears we are heading to the Royal Family’s private quarters. It must be a talk of utmost secrecy.”

Eventually, the chamberlain stopped and spoke to the knight guarding the door. “Please, enter.” The knight opened the door, and my father and I entered the room.

Unlike the official audience chamber, the room did not have opulent furniture, but rather furniture that gave a warm impression. “I apologize for summoning you so suddenly. This is not a place for official audiences, but the room where I usually spend my time, so I wish for you to make yourselves at home.”

So it really was His Majesty’s private room. His Majesty Edgar II and Her Highness Flora were waiting inside. Even if told to make myself at home, being guided to such a place makes me nervous wondering what the talk is about.

Still, after sitting in a comfortable-looking chair and drinking the tea brewed by a maid, I calmed down little by little. The lack of gaudy decorations and the gentle arrangement of the room played a part. I could feel His Majesty’s personality.

“Now then, are you aware that there was a proposal from the Vandle Empire wishing to welcome William-kun as the husband of Princess Silesia?” “Yes, I have heard that the proposal was made during the exchange event.”

“The Empire stated that if we accept, they would reveal their iron manufacturing method.” “Yes, I was surprised to hear that from Earl Cardiff.” “Umu. Prince Ernst seems determined to bring William-kun to the Empire at all costs. He even said he would not hesitate to shed blood if the Kingdom refused.”

Hinting at war is no ordinary matter. What does His Majesty intend to do? “However, of course, I intend to refuse. The Kingdom cannot conceive of letting William-kun go, and we must not allow William-kun to be separated from the World Tree and the Elves for the convenience of one nation.”

Hearing His Majesty’s words, I felt relieved and the tension left my shoulders. I cannot leave the Leyline Crosspoint where the World Tree is scheduled to be moved. I cannot imagine leaving behind the Elves who have protected the World Tree until now.

“However, we cannot crush the face of the Empire that proposed marriage to their Princess. Therefore, I have a proposal.” “Yes, what kind of proposal is it?”

“Could I ask you, William-kun, to become engaged to a Princess?” Eh? Me, engaged to Her Highness? “I have five children. Except for the 10-year-old Crown Prince, all are daughters. The elder two have already married into neighboring royal families. The candidates would be my third and fourth daughters, but I believe the fourth, Flora, who has a connection with you, is best.”

As my father and I froze in surprise, Her Highness Flora spoke. “I apologize for not having time to consult you beforehand. It was I who proposed this to Father. We cannot hand William-san over to the Empire, for the sake of the Albion Kingdom, and for the World Tree and the Elves.”

“I must also apologize that this has become such a sudden story.” “Your Majesty, please stop apologizing to your subjects.” Father hurriedly stopped him.

Ah, so His Majesty decided to meet in a private place to apologize. I was so surprised that my thoughts have become strangely calm.

I see. Indeed, to refuse marriage to an Imperial Princess, claiming a prior engagement to a Royal Princess would not wound the Empire’s pride. But is Her Highness truly okay with that?

“I understand the diplomatic circumstances. More importantly, is Your Highness truly okay with getting engaged to me? I do not think I have much charm, and I also bear the troublesome role of Savior.”

Her Highness Flora smiled. “It is not just about diplomacy. Father told me I did not have to enter a political marriage.” His Majesty nodded too.

“Through this incident, I asked myself. And I realized that not only are you the benefactor who made me realize the merits of the Merchant Skill, but I also find your gentle personality that I saw in Northernford, and the relationships of trust you have with those around you, to be desirable.” No, that is too much praise. I am very embarrassed.

“Furthermore, desiring the southern undeveloped lands as territory to protect the World Tree as the Savior is a magnificent thing. I also thought that I wanted to face the world’s crisis together with you, the Savior.” To think she considers it that deeply.

“Do you dislike the idea of making me your wife, William-san?” “Dislike it? Far from it. Your Highness is gifted with both intelligence and beauty, and since realizing the merits of the Merchant Skill, your expression has become brighter, and you have become even more charming.”

Besides, Her Highness does not boast about her status. “In Northernford, you treated the workshop staff kindly, and I thought your character of not changing your attitude based on the other person’s status was wonderful. I think you are too good for me.”

“I am relieved to hear you say that, William-san.” Her Highness Flora smiled.

I looked at Father, and he nodded slightly at me. “I consider the engagement to Her Highness Princess Flora a great honor. I swear to cherish you to the best of my ability.”

For the Fairchild Margrave family as well, having a Princess marry into the family is an honor. However, the face of my childhood friend floated through my mind.