**Chapter 120: Bearing the Burden of Nobility**
Celestine had informed me about the rewards for the Subnock subjugation. That night, amidst his grueling duties, Albert Rosemary returned to the mansion after a long absence, and I, Rest, seized the opportunity to discuss matters with him.
“Ah, indeed. I have approved it,” Albert replied in his office. After confirming the events of the day, the man who was to become my father-in-law spoke clearly.
“Through discussions with His Majesty the King, it has been decided that you, Rest, will be granted a territory and a noble title. The conferment ceremony is scheduled to take place in three days.”
“Three days… That’s quite sudden,” I remarked.
“We are ready to strike against Marquis Aiger. We will confer titles to you and several others, and in the same breath, we will officially announce the rebellion of Marquis Aiger and declare the subjugation.”
Albert explained the details further.
“The knight order, the Court Magicians, and the nobles of the royal faction will each send troops. The House of Marquis Rosemary will also deploy a magical unit, and I would like you, Rest, to take command at the front lines.”
“Command? But I’ve never done anything like that before.”
“Of course, you will have assistance. Diable will serve as the effective commander, giving you instructions, so I want you to focus on fighting as a magician.”
Albert clasped his hands on the desk, a teasing smile dancing on his lips.
“It seems the time has come for you to showcase the boundless magical power you displayed when defeating the Subnock. His Majesty the King has high expectations for your contributions.”
“Ah… um… I apologize for acting on my own.”
I offered a half-hearted apology. Challenging the Subnock was necessary to protect my loved ones, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had acted rashly. Had I caused Albert any trouble by my impulsiveness?
“Well, that’s not a concern. The one who will face hardships from now on is you.”
“Hardships…?”
“Yes. The Aiwood Kingdom cannot afford to let a force like you go to waste. You will be embroiled in various battles, from subjugating Marquis Aiger to developing the Subnock Plains and fighting against the northern barbarians.”
“…………”
Thus began the start of days far removed from tranquility. I became acutely aware of the weight of the responsibilities that would soon be thrust upon me. From now on, I would be scrutinized and tested even more than when it was decided I would marry into the House of Marquis Rosemary. There was even a chance I could be ensnared by someone’s schemes. I was no longer a commoner; as a noble, I had to bear the burdens that came with my new status.
“The royal court 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 the noble duty… the Noblesse Oblige. As the son-in-law of the House of Marquis Rosemary, stand firm against it.”
“…Understood. If it contributes to the advancement of the House of Rosemary.”
“Indeed. Also… with your conferment, you will become the head of a noble family. It will be a branch of the House of Rosemary, but what name will you choose?”
“What do you mean… Is ‘Rosemary’ not acceptable?”
“It is not that it’s unacceptable… but you will be granted one-third of the plains as your territory. If you keep the same family name, it would strengthen the name ‘Rosemary’ too much within the kingdom. Even as a branch, I want to maintain the distinction that it is a separate house.”
“…………”
I didn’t quite understand, but it seemed to be a consideration befitting a noble. The power of the name ‘Rosemary’ should not grow too strong, lest it threaten the royal family.
(Though, in reality, I plan to inherit the House of Marquis Rosemary as well, so changing the name seems somewhat pointless…)
The practical implications might be negligible, but the nominal aspect was crucial. This appeared to be an unspoken understanding within noble society.
“Think of something suitable, anything will do. There’s a noble directory in the mansion’s archive, so just make sure it doesn’t overlap with other family names.”
“Understood… Is it alright if I consult Viola and Primula about this?”
The two were currently bathing and were not present at the moment. Along with Yuri, the three girls were enjoying a cozy bath time, which I envied.
“Of course. Just make sure to decide before the conferment ceremony.”
Albert concluded the discussion. With that, my meeting with my future father-in-law came to an end. I bowed my head and prepared to leave the office.
“Rest.”
Just as I reached for the doorknob, Albert spoke up unexpectedly.
“You, a commoner, have been chosen by the House of Marquis Rosemary 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 and entered this house as the head of the Court Magicians.”
“…………”
“To gain glory and achievements means to bear 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.”
I turned back once more and bowed to the man who would soon be my father-in-law. Although I was not born into privilege, I felt fortunate to be in this house. The heavy burden I had felt moments ago seemed to lighten just a bit.
“I apologize for the intrusion.”
With that, I finally exited the office.