Chapter 43

It won't be long before my stay in the capital comes to an end. Today is the day I visit the Messy Baron's residence. According to the information my mother gathered, the Messy Baron is returning to his territory earlier than the off-season. Therefore, this is a party to bid farewell.

Most members of the First Prince's faction who have been granted territories in the provinces are dedicated to managing their lands, so there are few opportunities for everyone to gather. Conversely, attendance at such seasonal parties is reportedly high.

I can't help but wonder if I should attend such a party...

In the morning, I practice yoga to unify my mind. Next to me, my mother, who has become completely hooked on yoga, is doing yoga in matching clothes.

"Oh, Iris. Your expression is so stiff. If you're like this now, you'll be exhausted."

"Is that so...?"

"Yes. Since you're loosening your body, you should also loosen your expression... There, that's the feeling."

After finishing yoga, I take a shower and change. Since today's party starts in the evening, I'm still in casual clothes for now.

Since I have some time to spare, I look over the reports from Sei and Sebastian and promptly respond to those that require instructions. Hmm... Being on the scene is really important. Considering the time it takes for letters to arrive, the situation might have changed by the time I understand it. Seeing this, I think I should discard unnecessary sentimentality and return to my territory as soon as possible.

While I was wrestling with the documents, there was a knock on the door, and Tanya entered the room.

"Miss, it's time to get ready."

Oh, it's already that time? When I concentrate, time really flies.

I can't afford to be late, so I start getting ready immediately. Since today's party is in the evening, I'll wear a dress that's a bit more formal than the one I wore at the previous Dronbald Duke's party. However, I don't want to wear a heavy dress, so I choose a sleek design.

While Tanya is styling my hair into an updo, I put on my accessories. Today's dress is a deep blue that matches my eye color. Since my hair is silver, white accessories wouldn't stand out, so I choose sapphires and blue ones. As a result, the silver embroidery on the dress stands out quite a bit.

By the time I finish getting ready, it's quite late. They say that women take a long time to get ready, but it's especially true with dresses. After all, I can't put them on without help.

I get into the carriage and head to the Baron's residence. Phew, I'm so nervous... The distance isn't far since both our residence and the Messy Baron's residence are in the noble district of the capital. Still, I feel the distance more because I'm so nervous.

Arriving at the Messy Baron's residence, I'm stiff with tension as I greet the host, the Messy Baron.

"Thank you for inviting me today."

"Thank you for attending."

The Messy Baron, as expected of someone who served in the military, has a well-proportioned build. ...Yet, each of his movements is graceful, and there's no trace of coarseness. In my opinion, he's a charming gentleman with a touch of silver in his hair.

"My grandfather was disappointed that he couldn't attend this gathering."

My grandfather wanted to attend, but unfortunately, he had to be absent. He had some business to attend to, though he didn't elaborate on it. He was very disappointed. ...Well, my grandfather has a closer relationship with the Messy Baron than I do.

"I am also very disappointed. Please convey my hope that he will join us next time."

"Of course, I will."

After greeting the host, I look around the venue. Wow, it's impressive... That's my first impression. Everywhere, there are well-known figures. Among the nobles, there are those who have been elevated for their achievements. There are also commoners who have been recognized for their technical skills or artistic potential. And there are bureaucrats who work on the front lines and whose names I've heard from my father. It's no wonder I'm surprised to see such a gathering of famous people.

"...Miss Iris, it's been a while."

"Oh... Duke Sagittarius, it's been a while."

Duke Sagittarius serves as the country's finance minister. Since he's my father's subordinate, I've met him before. I believe he was appointed to his position during the time when the Queen was the Queen Mother, due to his abilities. He now appears to be a kind old man, but he must have dealt with all sorts of people in the royal castle... I don't think he's as simple as he looks.

"I didn't expect to see you here, Duke Sagittarius."

I never thought that someone in such an important position in the government would be supporting any of the princes... That's my honest thought.

"A humble official like me cannot meddle in matters of the throne."

Well, he can't say it directly, but he has considerable influence... After all, he controls the kingdom's purse strings. He should have a significant voice.

"However, I believe it is the duty of officials and citizens to consider and act for the good of the kingdom... and ultimately, for the good of the people."

"I see. So, you believe that the person you support is the best for the kingdom."

Duke Sagittarius only deepened his smile in response to my words.

"By the way, Miss Iris, your attire tonight is truly splendid."

"Thank you."

"Is it from trade with the East...?"

"No. I simply ordered it from a clothing store in my territory."

"Ah, I see. Your territory, Armenia, has a wealth of talent. Being by the sea is also enviable. The production of salt and foreign trade bring in foreign currency... Being by the sea can enrich a territory on its own. From the volume of trade, it seems to be going smoothly."

"Yes... well, it's thanks to the people."

Indeed, Duke Sagittarius. You have a good grasp of the situation in each territory.

"Please, don't be modest. I've heard that much of it is due to your guidance?"

For now, I respond to his question with a smile. I'm at a loss for words. It feels like I'm being probed, which is a bit troublesome.

"Also, I've heard that you've been quite active in your territory's administration. Revising the tax system, protecting orphans, and implementing military reforms... What is your ultimate goal?"

In simpler terms, are you using foreign trade to gain foreign currency, collecting money from other territories through commerce, and building an army in your territory to plot something? I'm surprised when I think about it. Even if it weren't Duke Sagittarius, anyone would be wary of what I'm planning.

"My goal is to ensure that the people can live in peace. More specifically, to guarantee their safety and a stable life in my territory. Such a goal... no, it's more of an ideal. How close I can get to that ideal is something I will always strive for... So, there is no 'ultimate goal.'"

"I see... I'm very moved. Governing for the people... Even at your young age, you are already aspiring to be a public servant. However, be careful. Your words could be interpreted as a willingness to challenge the kingdom for the sake of the people."

"I appreciate your warning."

I have no intention of rebelling against the kingdom. Although I'm not very thick, my family, the Dukes of Armenia, swear loyalty to the royal family.

However, I must protect the people above all else. Therefore, there is a possibility that I might have to oppose the kingdom depending on the situation. As a last resort, it's a card I don't want to play, but it's an option that lingers in the back of my mind. ...Of course, I can't say that.