Chapter 120: Bearing the Burden of Nobility
Celestine informed me about the rewards for the Subnock subjugation. That night, amidst his busy schedule, Albert Rosemary returned to the mansion after a long absence, and Rest seized the opportunity to discuss matters with him.
“Ah, that’s correct. I have approved it,” Albert stated clearly in his office.
Upon confirming the events of the day, the man who was to become his father-in-law spoke with conviction.
“Through discussions with His Majesty the King, it has been decided that you, Rest, will be granted territory and a noble title. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place in three days.”
“Three days… That’s quite sudden,” Rest replied, surprised.
“We’re ready to confront Marquis Aiger. We will confer nobility upon you and several others, and then, in a seamless transition, we will officially announce the rebellion of Marquis Aiger and declare the subjugation.”
Albert elaborated on the details.
“The knight order, the court magicians, and the nobles loyal to the crown will each send troops. The Rosemary Marquis House will also deploy a magical unit, and I would like you to take command at the front lines.”
“Command? But I’ve never done anything like that before.”
“Of course, you will have assistance. Dibble will act as the effective commander, giving you directions, so I want you to focus on fighting as a magician.”
Albert clasped his hands on the desk, wearing a teasing smile.
“It seems the time has come for you to showcase the boundless magical power you displayed when you defeated Subnock. His Majesty the King has high expectations for your contributions.”
“Ah… um… I apologize for acting on my own.”
Rest offered a hesitant apology. Challenging Subnock was necessary to protect those dear to him, yet he felt he had acted recklessly. Had he caused trouble for Albert by taking matters into his own hands?
“Well, that’s not a concern. The one who will face hardships from now on is you,” Albert replied.
“Hardships…?”
“Yes. The Aiwood Kingdom cannot afford to let a force like yours go to waste. You will be embroiled in various battles, from the subjugation of Marquis Aiger to the development of the Subnock Plain and conflicts with the northern barbarians.”
“…………”
Thus began the days far removed from tranquility. Rest became acutely aware of the weight of the responsibilities that would soon be placed upon him. From this point forward, he would be scrutinized and tested even more than when he was set to marry into the Rosemary Marquis House. There was a possibility he could be ensnared by someone’s schemes. He was no longer a commoner; he had to bear the burdens befitting a noble.
“The royal palace intends to elevate you as a hero to divert the people’s attention from the dangers threatening the kingdom. There will be challenges ahead, but this is also part of your noble duty… the Noblesse Oblige. As the son-in-law of the Rosemary Marquis House, I expect you to face it head-on.”
“…Understood. If it contributes to the prosperity of the Rosemary Marquis House.”
“Indeed. Also… upon your conferment, you will become the head of a noble house. It will be a branch of the Rosemary Marquis House, but what name will you choose?”
“What do you mean… Is ‘Rosemary’ not acceptable?”
“It’s not that it’s unacceptable… but you will be granted one-third of the plain as your territory. If you use the same name, it could strengthen the ‘Rosemary’ name too much within the kingdom. Even as a branch, we want to maintain the distinction of being a separate house.”
“…………”
Rest didn’t fully grasp the reasoning, but it seemed to be a consideration of nobility. The power of the ‘Rosemary’ name should not grow to the point of threatening the royal family.
(Truthfully, I plan to inherit the Rosemary Marquis House anyway, so changing the name seems pointless…)
While it may have no practical significance, the nominal aspect was crucial. This was yet another unspoken understanding within noble society.
“Think of something suitable. There’s a noble directory in the mansion’s archive, so just be careful not to choose a name that overlaps with another house.”
“Understood… Is it alright if I consult with Viola and Primula about this?”
The two were currently taking a bath and were not present. Yuri was also among the three girls enjoying their bath time together, a rather enviable situation.
“Of course. Please decide before the award ceremony.”
Albert concluded the discussion. With that, the meeting with his future father-in-law came to an end. Rest bowed his head and prepared to leave the office.
“Rest.”
Just as he placed his hand on the doorknob, Albert spoke up unexpectedly.
“You, a commoner, have been chosen by the Rosemary Marquis House and are now being eyed by the royal family to be elevated as a hero. The weight of this responsibility will likely surpass that of when I was chosen by my wife to enter this house and became the head of the court magicians.”
“…………”
“To gain glory and achievements means to shoulder the responsibilities that come with them. There will be many worries ahead, but remember that you have many allies, including myself.”
“…I appreciate your concern.”
Rest turned back once more, bowing to the man who would become his father-in-law. Though he was born into humble circumstances, he felt fortunate to be in this house. The heavy burden he had felt just moments ago seemed to lighten slightly.
“Excuse me.”
Rest finally exited the office.