Chapter 51

The subtitle may be changed. Additionally, the chapter structure has been revised.

A few months after the National Foundation Day, on a certain day, Alvis visited the king's office.

The king, sitting opposite him, looked deeply fatigued. Or rather, it might not be fatigue. He was probably thinking about the upcoming school's founding anniversary party, which was to be held in two months.

"Uncle"

"No, I apologize. I was just thinking that another year has passed... It's drawing near, isn't it?"

"Yes, it is."

Whether it has been only a year or already a year might differ from person to person. For Alvis, each day as the crown prince has passed quickly. He felt that it had only been a year. Still, the founding anniversary party is a special event for the current royal family. It is the greatest blemish in the history of the royal family in recent years.

"I am thinking of making amends."

"Will you attend the founding anniversary party?"

"No, that's not it."

"Then, what exactly?"

Last year's founding anniversary party was ruined due to Girard's mishap. As a result, last year's graduates left the academy with the party interrupted. What should have been a cherished memory was lost. And it was due to the actions of the then-crown prince.

This year's party will also invite last year's graduates. It was decided as a special consideration because many people expressed regret about the missed opportunity. Alvis was to attend as a representative of the royal family, while the king had no plans to attend. Alvis thought about changing this, considering it as making amends for ruining the founding anniversary party, but was quickly denied.

"Alvis, I intend to abdicate within a few years."

"......That is..."

"A parent must take responsibility for their child's misdeeds."

"Girard is already an adult. Isn't it enough for him to take responsibility alone?"

If he were a minor, it would be natural for the parent to take responsibility for the child's actions. However, as an adult, one should take their own responsibility. That is common sense.

"Of course, you are right. But, he was the crown prince. The next king, who was supposed to lead the country and its people, caused this. I cannot say that I am not responsible."

"......"

If Girard were just the son of a noble, it might have been resolved within the bounds of common sense. However, Girard was a member of the royal family and the crown prince. Alvis could not deny this.

"You still lack what is needed to become king. Even in retirement, I will still be of help. This is also for your benefit."

"Has Aunt... the queen, agreed to this?"

"Of course, I have already discussed it with her. She was rather relieved. She said she wants to see the Duchess of Lithuard become the queen properly."

"I see."

The queen had been overseeing Elina's education since she was young, when she was decided to be Girard's fiancée. She had watched Elina grow as if she were her own daughter. The queen seemed to look forward to Elina joining the royal family as a queen. The queen has no daughters of her own. Although she has daughters from the concubines, Rithine and Kiara, they stay with their mothers. While they are not on bad terms, the queen does not dote on them as daughters. Therefore, she must have doted on Elina, who was to become her daughter through marriage. Now, the future where Elina would become her daughter is gone.

Knowing the queen's feelings, Alvis's mother has not interfered with Elina's wedding dress or decorations. The queen is leading the preparations, and the Duchess of Lithuard has agreed. It is only natural for the queen to lead since Elina is joining the royal family.

"Of course, I am considering all of this after you have children."

"Wh-What?! I will... take care of it..."

Alvis was speechless at the king's words.

As a member of the royal family and the crown prince, producing an heir is one of the important tasks. While it was a matter of course, being told so formally left him at a loss for how to react. He was so confused that he didn't know what face to make.

After that, Alvis left the king's office. When he signaled to Rex and Din, who were waiting outside, they followed him.

"Huh? Alvis, is something wrong?"

"Your Highness, are you feeling unwell—"

"Nothing is wrong. Don't worry about it..."

"But—"

"We're going back."

The two, who noticed Alvis's change, were indeed excellent. However, Alvis almost sighed at the thought of being so transparent to them. He was still so confused. To avoid showing his face any further, he quickened his pace, leaving the two, who were tilting their heads in confusion, behind.