Chapter 262: A Discussion Between Father-in-Law and Son
“What can I say… things have gotten quite intense, haven’t they?”
“I-I apologize…”
While the three daughters were making a ruckus in the bath, Rest found himself shrinking in Albert Rosemary’s office, summoned by his father-in-law. Albert sat at the desk before him, hands clasped together, while the butler, Dibble, stood behind the door as if blocking any escape route. It was an incredibly awkward situation, and an inexplicable sense of guilt washed over Rest.
(No, wait… the cause is quite clear…)
Rest was engaged to Albert’s beloved daughters, Viola and Primula. He was in a position to receive the daughters of a prestigious marquis family. Yet, despite this, he was on the verge of being engaged to Celestine and had even received a marriage proposal from Yuri. There was no way Albert, his father-in-law, would find this amusing.
“Ugh…”
“No, I’m not angry, so relax,” Albert said, his expression somewhat complicated as he addressed the visibly tense Rest.
“I understand that the matter concerning Duchess Crocus is not something you can refuse. After all, it’s a royal engagement. They have stated that either Viola or Primula can be the legitimate wife, and since they have made concessions, you cannot turn it down.”
“Ah, I see…?”
“As for the matter of Marquis Cattleya’s daughter, it was unexpected… but I will confirm it with the Knight Commander. My wife is trying to impose many concubines upon you, and at least I won’t oppose it.”
“Thank you…?”
Rest wondered if it was appropriate to express his gratitude. Confused, he bowed his head.
“Um… why is my wife being so kind to me? I’ve never heard of a mother-in-law arranging a mistress for her son-in-law…”
“Ah… I suppose that’s true.”
Albert rubbed his furrowed brow, appearing troubled as he spoke.
“Airish is… well, she is concerned about the future of this country.”
“The future of the country…? That’s quite a grand topic…”
“Indeed. However, there are many issues at hand. You must be aware that this nation is facing internal troubles and external threats.”
Internal troubles referred to the existence of the tyrant, Third Prince Rodel, and the faction supporting him, known as the Queen Dowager Faction. The external threats included the hostile northern tribes and, while technically a friendly nation, the increasingly suspicious Geisel Empire to the east.
“Thanks to your efforts, the internal troubles are somewhat being resolved. However… the external threats continue to grow.”
“……”
“Though it has not been publicly announced yet, the northern tribes are showing suspicious movements. It is possible that a large-scale invasion could occur within the next few years.”
“……!”
The northern tribes, referred to as “Subhumans,” had been silent for many years. Were they finally about to make their move?
“The silver lining is that the empire, which is also showing suspicious movements, is currently focused on the north…”
“Are we going to war again?”
“No, it doesn’t seem to be imminent. That’s precisely why the royal family is trying to keep you, a valuable asset, tied to Duchess Crocus. They are also hastening the development of the Subnock Plain for that reason.”
“……”
“It’s as if a dammed river is suddenly bursting forth. You are likely one of the catalysts for this.”
“I’m sorry…”
“There’s no need to apologize. However, I will continue to burden you moving forward.”
Albert looked at Rest with a sympathetic gaze. He had heard that happiness and misfortune balance each other out, but it seemed Rest had taken on quite a heavy burden in exchange for gaining the affection of beautiful young women.
“The fact that Airish is preparing concubines for you is… well, it’s part of that arrangement. She believes that if you have many children, it will contribute to strengthening future military power.”
“I see…”
While he didn’t fully understand everything, it seemed there was little he could say regarding relationships and marriage.
(No… it’s fine. As long as Viola and Primula are okay with it. Yes.)
If the two who should be most concerned about Rest’s relationships were fine with it, then he had nothing more to say. In fact, Rest was in a fortunate position.
(I’m lucky… I’ve become a noble and even have beautiful brides. What complaints could I possibly have…?)
As he tried to convince himself, Rest exited Albert’s office. However, the moment he stepped into the hallway, he was immediately caught by Viola and Primula, who began to interrogate him about Urura Lavender. But that seemed to be a story for another time.