Chapter 239: The Hot Springs and the New Engagement
“Marriage… huh? Why?”
Such a topic had never come up before. While I had maintained a reasonably close friendship with Celestine, it was not as intimate as the bond I shared with Yuri.
“No… if His Majesty the King and Duke Crocus are in agreement, does that mean this is some sort of political marriage…?”
“Yes, that’s correct.”
Celestine nodded. After all, as a Duke’s daughter, it was unlikely that she would choose a marriage partner based solely on personal feelings. If I were to be engaged to Rest, there must be political reasons behind it.
“Rest may not be fully aware, but your presence is becoming increasingly significant in this country.”
“Is it… because of the Sabnock Subjugation?”
“Yes. The Sabnock Subjugation, and your victory over Prince Rodel as well. Your overwhelming prowess as a magician can no longer be ignored by the Royal Family.”
Having defeated the Magical Beast Sabnock, which had remained undefeated for over a century, and bringing an end to the civil war by vanquishing Rodel—there was no doubt that Rest was becoming a vital asset for the next generation. His position had transcended that of merely being the heir to the Rosemary Marquis House.
“I can’t say this too loudly, but… our country is facing numerous issues.”
As Celestine adjusted her damp hair, she explained in a clear voice.
“Although the internal troubles posed by Prince Rodel and Marquis Aiger have been resolved, external threats still loom. The tribes in the north have been our long-standing enemies. They have been launching raids every few years, and it is believed they will attack again in the not-so-distant future.”
“Those tribes… you mean the ones referred to as subhumans?”
“Yes, that’s correct.”
When I confirmed this, Celestine nodded. The tribes in the north, often called ‘barbarians,’ were a race distinct yet similar to humans, known as ‘subhumans.’ Various races such as ogres and winged folk inhabited those lands, frequently invading the Aiwood Kingdom and the Geisel Empire.
“Even the Geisel Empire, which should be our ally in the fight against these tribes, has been showing suspicious movements in recent years. The war faction is gaining momentum, pushing the moderate faction aside.”
“If the war faction becomes mainstream, they might invade our country as well…”
“Yes. That is why military expansion is being pursued behind the scenes in the Aiwood Kingdom. You are expected to be a key force in the battles that are likely to come.”
Rest is strong. With Albert Rosemary, the court magician, his wife Airish Rosemary, and Iljas Cattleya, the Knight Commander, there may be individuals stronger than Rest at present, but considering future potential, Rest is likely superior. It is only natural to keep him connected to the Royal Family in preparation for the wars that may arise.
“Currently, there are no princesses of suitable age in the Royal Family. The one who is most compatible with you, Rest, is me.”
“So, that means I am to marry Celestine…?”
“Yes. I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this may cause you due to the Royal Family’s circumstances…”
“No… that’s not really a problem…”
My gaze naturally drifted downwards, landing on her exquisite figure submerged in the water. The thought of marriage meant… I could have my way with that body.
(While I can’t gauge her breast size, her smooth skin and slender waist are certainly more appealing than Viola’s and Primula’s…)
“Rest?”
“N-no! I’m sorry!”
I inadvertently blurted out an apology. It was shameful to let my eyes wander towards another woman when I already had a fiancée.
(No, wait… if Celestine is to be my fiancée, then is it really that wrong…?)
“Ah, no, no… rather, wouldn’t it be Celestine who has to deal with the hardships?”
I lightly shook my head and asked a crucial question.
“I understand that the Royal Family wishes for me to marry Celestine, but that doesn’t mean my engagements with Viola and Primula will be annulled, right? Wouldn’t it be acceptable for them to be engaged to a man with multiple fiancées?”
“I don’t mind at all.”
“You don’t mind…?”
“Rest, you are kind and considerate, and compared to Prince Rodel, you are far more appealing.”
“Rodel…”
Thanks to the foolish prince, the bar for acceptable men had been significantly lowered. Indeed, compared to that good-for-nothing, a man with multiple wives might seem like a catch.
“Eventually, there will be an official announcement from the Royal Family, but I believe it is certain that I will become your fiancée, Rest.”
“……I see.”
There were many thoughts swirling in my mind, and I was still in a state of confusion. However, if Viola and Primula were on board with this, then I had no grounds to object.
“I can’t say ‘yes’ right away, but… I will sort out my feelings.”
“Please do… If you truly dislike this, please let me know. I will persuade His Majesty the King.”
“……”
I looked at Celestine’s face, then let my gaze drop to her body once more, only to avert my eyes again, blushing in embarrassment.