Chapter 45

The gentleman in the tuxedo turned out to be Celestia's butler. He elegantly prepared and served tea while Viella and Emma greeted each other, then stood behind Celestia after finishing.

The Duke and Duchess of Ambrosius, who usually socialize here, are not present. Yet, they show interest in Viella.

Starting with Viella, the Yubert family did not touch their tea, waiting for the other party to speak.

Celestia took a sip of tea and then turned her gaze to Thomas.

"I heard you are going to have the third son of the Ambrosius family marry into your family. To form a bond with him, it seems you must have a very talented daughter."

"I am honored. However, it might be more accurate to say that Lord Lucash is a great match."

"Oh, modesty. I am evaluating Lady Viella. Especially her magical talent. I heard she saved the expedition from a crisis as a representative of the Magic Bureau the other day. Among the young ladies, she may be the most talented—I believe so."

Her amber eyes, reminiscent of a bird of prey, shifted from Thomas to his daughter.

"I've heard that you are a bit unfamiliar with noble conversations, so I will be straightforward. Would you consider breaking your engagement with Lord Lucash and instead betrothing to my grandson, Clement?"

"―!?"

Confused by what she had just heard, Viella could only widen her eyes in shock. Her family, too, wore expressions of confusion.

"Perhaps I am biased, but I think Clement is just as charming as Lord Lucash. His magical abilities are already top-notch, and he has grown to be very handsome. Lady Viella's appearance and magical talent are also exceptional. A child born between Clement and Lady Viella would surely inherit not only good looks but also magical talent."

With a soft, innocent smile, like a girl desiring a favorite doll, Celestia spoke.

The royal family values leaving behind excellent descendants. Even in the modern noble society, which is relatively tolerant of free love, the royal family remains unchanged, seeking the bloodline of prestigious families or outstanding individuals. Celestia, a former princess and direct descendant of the royal family, has a strong awareness of bloodline.

The Yubert family realized that Celestia desired Viella's blood, which possesses magical talent.

Thomas, with a stiff voice, bowed to Celestia.

"I apologize, but as you know, Viella is already engaged to the son of the Ambrosius family. I fear we cannot reciprocate your feelings, Lady Celestia."

"If the Viscount wishes to form a bond with the Bartel family, I will speak to the Ambrosius family. I will prepare a beneficial arrangement for the Duke's family and introduce a new lady who can provide the environment Lord Lucash desires."

"But—"

"Moreover, if Lady Viella marries into the Bartel family, it will bring more benefits to the Yubert family than having the Ambrosius family's son marry in. As a Marchioness, she will have the authority to use significant assets and can provide loans to the Yubert family on her own judgment. I believe it will be more beneficial to the territory than becoming the head of the Viscount's family."

It was a purely political marriage. Celestia's thoughts did not consider anyone's feelings, including Viella and Lucash, and even her own grandson, Clement. Celestia seemed to believe this was the best choice and that both the Ambrosius and Yubert families would agree, as she asked again, "Viscount Yubert, what do you think?"

The liveliness outside the window sounded like it was from another world. The air in the terrace was heavy.

Thomas clenched his fists on his knees.

"I still wish for Lord Lucash to marry into our family."

"Oh, as the head of the territory, it's unwise to overlook the benefits you could gain."

"No, the territory is important. By incorporating the best bloodline in the country, Lord Lucash, into the direct line of the Yubert family, we can expect an excellent successor. He will surely govern the territory well in the future."

"True, that makes sense. But then, what about Lady Emma marrying Lord Lucash?"

"Would the hero Lord Lucash really desire that? Viella is a girl with the abilities you desire. Would he be satisfied with Emma, who cannot use magic?"

Celestia's innocent smile disappeared, and she stared into Thomas's eyes. Despite his pale face, Thomas did not look away.

After a few seconds of staring, Celestia let out a small sigh.

"It seems we should speak with the Ambrosius family, not the Yubert family. As equals, if we can gain their understanding... Lady Viella, please come to our house when the time comes."

Celestia smiled at Viella and, supported by her butler, stood up. She left the terrace with a soft atmosphere, as if the tension had never existed.

Viella's tension did not ease. Her hand, intertwined with Emma's, trembled slightly. Then, Thomas stood up from the sofa and hugged both Viella and Emma.

"Viella, I'm sorry. I couldn't refuse her any better."

"No, that was the best way."

Celestia was a superior figure with a completely different view of engagements. It was better to convey opinions based on her values rather than trying to persuade her with our own principles.

(Father must have been scared too... He said things he didn't believe to protect this engagement. He prioritized us over the territory's benefits. Lord Lucash will understand.)

Viella placed her hand on her father's back and hugged him back.

"Emma, I'm sorry. I said those things, but you are also a proud daughter. I love you."

"It's okay. I know how much you value me. I'm proud of you too, Father."

Emma also hugged Thomas tightly. Then, Camilla, their mother, embraced both father and daughters.

"Viella and Emma were very brave to endure this. You, my husband, were very impressive."

"Really? Are you falling in love with me all over again?"

"Yes. I'm glad I married you."

"That's the best thing a husband can hear. Thank you for placing your hand on my back just now. It gave me the courage to speak my mind. You are indeed the woman I fell in love with."

Thomas separated from his family and kissed Camilla's fingertips. Camilla blushed and said, "Oh!"

Viella and Emma exchanged amused glances, recalling the rare display of affection from their parents, reminiscent of when they all lived in the Yubert territory.

"It's complicated to see our parents being so lovey-dovey, but they are the ideal couple."

"Next, it's your turn with Lord Lucash, isn't it?"

"Stop teasing me."

"I can tease you because I know Lord Lucash loves you. If the engagement was just a contract without genuine feelings, I wouldn't be able to laugh about it. I can imagine him choosing the better option and even Viella stepping back."

They are in love, and he shows his affection for Viella so openly that everyone can see it. This awareness gave Viella the strength to hold on.

"Anyway, we should inform the Ambrosius family, right?"

Everyone in the family nodded deeply.

Upon returning to the Ambrosius Duke's residence, they immediately informed Celestia's proposal without hiding anything.

"My gut is churning."

"Lucas too? What a coincidence, me too."

"Oh, both you and Lucas? I'm glad we're in this together."

Lucash, as well as the Ambrosius couple, were more furious than expected, making the Yubert family feel a chill down their spines despite not being at fault. All three had beautiful smiles, but they looked like the villains from a fairy tale.

The Yubert family quietly followed the Ambrosius family's suggestion to rest before the family meeting.