Chapter 19: The One Who Rules the Kin of Twilight – 03
If my predictions were correct, then what Princess Marishielle was about to say would pertain to that matter. In both my previous life and this world, it was generally considered inappropriate for a woman to bring such topics up… or rather, it felt like it touched upon a man’s honor. However, given that the person in question was the sister of His Imperial Majesty, I doubted that such conventions would hold any weight. All I could do was wait for her to speak again.
However, after about ten minutes had passed, Princess Marishielle still seemed unable to meet my gaze, so I reluctantly decided to break the silence.
“Princess Marishielle, what is it that you wish to discuss?”
She flinched slightly, her body trembling as she began to speak hesitantly.
“Um, well… you see, Count Okuno, I believe you are aware that I made a personal declaration when I entered the Martial Arts Tournament… correct?”
“I believe I have heard something about it. It was regarding the possibility of being defeated by a member of the opposite sex during the tournament, yes?”
“Y-yes, that’s correct… Of course, I am not in a position to speak so lightly about such matters, but my brother has told me that I have a certain degree of freedom regarding this issue…”
“I see. I recall His Imperial Majesty mentioning that he wished to respect your intentions regarding your future choices.”
“Is that so? …Well, this time, I have lost in battle for the first time to a member of the opposite sex. The opponent, of course, was Count Okuno.”
“How fortunate… or perhaps ‘honored’ is the more appropriate term, as it seems to have turned out that way.”
“Yes. And… if it is Count Okuno, then personally and publicly, I believe it is more than acceptable… that is how I feel.”
At that moment, Princess Marishielle finally turned her gaze toward me.
Her expression, if I were not overly self-conscious, could be described as that of a lovestruck maiden.
“…It brings me great joy to know that you feel that way.”
As she said this, her face lit up with a momentary smile that seemed to radiate happiness.
However, sensing that my words were not yet finished, she quickly wiped the smile from her face and resumed a more cautious demeanor.
I continued speaking.
“However, as you may have realized during your visit to my home, I hold my party members, with whom I have traveled, in very high regard. Moreover, several of my family members have already expressed their desire for me to form bonds once our journey concludes.”
“I am aware of the Marquisate of Zanzagil. Lady Sakurahime is an exceptionally wonderful woman.”
“Indeed, considering her age and other factors, she is far beyond what I deserve. In any case, given my circumstances, I believe it would be wise for you to reconsider your position, Princess Marishielle.”
Honestly, I thought it would be a difficult matter to refuse, but from her demeanor, it seemed she did not intend to press the issue too forcefully. Regardless, I wanted to make it clear that I had no intention of neglecting the members of Soul’s Guidance. What she thought about it was up to her…
“Actually, I had a chance to speak with the members of Soul’s Guidance when Count Okuno was not present.”
“I was not aware of that.”
“There are some discussions that can only be had among women, so I hope you will forgive me for that. With that said, I would like to confirm one thing: Do you find me lacking in feminine charm, Count Okuno?”
“From my perspective, I find you to be an incredibly charming woman…”
I answered instinctively, only to realize that I had made an irretrievable blunder.
Rather, it seemed that the moment she posed that question, this matter had already reached a deadlock. Faced with Princess Marishielle’s flower-like smile, I could not help but come to that realization.
“Hehe, I am very pleased to hear that. I have been informed by the members of Soul’s Guidance that you have no intention of settling down until your current journey is complete. Additionally, I have also heard that you declared you would not neglect the women you are currently considering forming bonds with.”
“Ah… yes, I did indeed convey that.”
“Therefore, I have also contemplated whether it would be appropriate for me to intrude upon that. Moreover, since it is a rare opportunity, I would like to see where Count Okuno intends to go as a member of Soul’s Guidance.”
“Are you suggesting that you wish to join our party, Princess?”
“That is indeed what I am suggesting. Of course, this is contingent upon receiving your permission, Count Okuno.”
As she spoke, Princess Marishielle looked at me with hopeful eyes, as if to cut off any retreat I might have. If she had already discussed this with the other members, it seemed the groundwork had already been laid.
Well, considering that it was a proposal that would have been difficult to refuse from the start, perhaps this was the most gentle landing spot. I felt as though I was being skillfully maneuvered by everyone, but I could not deny that a part of me found this situation rather agreeable.