Chapter 99: His Majesty's Proposal

“So, now we know the location where the World Tree must be moved. I have heard from Theodore about the wish to make the southern undeveloped lands your territory in order to protect the World Tree and the Elves.” “Yes, that is what I intend to do.” “I see. To desire the uninhabited undeveloped lands as territory for the sake of the world is admirable. I intend to provide as much support as I can.” “Thank you very much.”

“Therefore, I have a proposal. Since I cannot yet appoint William-kun as a Lord, I wish to order the Fairchild family to develop the southern undeveloped lands.” “Our family is to develop the southern undeveloped lands?” “Umu. At the same time as ordering the development of the undeveloped lands, I intend to publicly announce that when William-kun comes of age, he will be ennobled and appointed Lord of the developed land. That way, you can use it as your de facto territory even before you are ennobled. I believe this is a good method to move the World Tree as soon as possible.”

Father nodded. “I see. So you will order our family to undertake the development, and take the form of granting the developed land to my son William as his future territory?” “Exactly. Ordinary nobles flinch when they hear ‘development of undeveloped lands.’ The son of the Fairchild family being sent off to the undeveloped lands might garner sympathy, but certainly not envy. The noisy nobles of the Royal Capital will not oppose it either.” “I believe that is an excellent idea. If our family is undertaking the development, we can openly dispatch our Knights. We humbly accept the order.” “I knew you would say that. Of course, the Royal Family will provide support in terms of both finances and personnel. Since I ordered the development, there is justification for providing support, so other nobles cannot complain.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty, and Father.” His Majesty’s idea effectively grants me the southern undeveloped lands as my territory, while also serving as the basis for Father and the Royal Family to help with the development. Furthermore, it prevents jealousy from other nobles, so it is very well thought out. He really intends to support the Elves and me to revive the World Tree. I am very grateful.

“There is no need for thanks. Truth be told, it would be better if I could make William-kun a Lord immediately. However, granting a title and making someone a Lord is generally done at eighteen. I had someone investigate if there were exceptions, but unfortunately, making you a Lord right now is impossible. However, I found out that as an exception, one can be ennobled even under eighteen if they graduate from the Royal Academy.” Father was surprised by His Majesty’s words. “Is there an exception for being ennobled under the age of eighteen?” “Yes, there was an instance long ago where someone who skipped grades and graduated from the Royal Academy was ennobled. To ennoble him as soon as possible, I am considering having him enroll in the Royal Academy by skipping grades.” Eh, to think the conversation would go there. Even though I wanted to take it easy in the frontier. “Well, for the time being, I would like William-kun to do his best in preparing to move the World Tree to the southern undeveloped lands.”

“Thank you for your various considerations.” “No, despite being a child, you are trying to shoulder hardships for the sake of the world as the Savior. Providing as much support as possible is natural for me as a King and as an adult.” There are probably many kings who wouldn’t think of that as natural. As expected, Edgar II is a wise ruler.

Then, His Majesty added with a mischievous look on his face. “If it were known that you would be ennobled and gain territory upon becoming an adult, normally you would be chased around by noble daughters. But by announcing that your territory is the southern undeveloped lands, those approaching you will disappear.” “As expected of Your Majesty. To think you considered that far for my son.” “Hahaha, we can’t have bad girls flocking to the Savior, after all. Do you find it regrettable that you won’t be popular, William-kun?” “No, not at all. Last time I visited the Royal Castle, I had no choice but to flee back to the West, but thanks to Your Majesty’s idea, it seems I’ll even be able to do some sightseeing in the Royal Capital.”

“I’m glad you think so. Well, being William-kun, there will likely be girls willing to follow you even if your territory is the southern undeveloped lands. A girl with that kind of resolve is more fitting to be the wife of the Savior.” “I hope such a girl exists.” In response to my reply, His Majesty made an exasperated face. “It seems he seriously thinks he doesn’t know if there are girls who would follow him. Theodore, your son is smart, but did you fail to educate him regarding relationships with women?” “It is exactly as you say. I am truly sorry.” Why is His Majesty exasperated, and why is Father agreeing and apologizing?