Chapter 289.2
Chapter 289.2. Father
-Miu’s Dad POV-
“This gathering is not compulsory, indeed. If it’s for the sake of my friend aiming for victory, then I have no choice but to remain silent.”
Knowing this, it seemed the Emperor wasn’t pressing further. Fiind updated novels at novelhall.com
“Your Majesty! While it’s not mandatory, this gathering is a prestigious event hosted by Your Majesty! We can concede that if they are participants, some secret training may be acceptable. However, to abstain from participating for support would be akin to sullying Your Majesty’s reputation!”
A noble sitting at a table a couple of seats away stood up and raised his voice. I thought it was audacious for someone unrelated to the conversation with the Emperor to interject.
This noble’s hearing, as expected of a magician, was impressive. You wouldn’t be able to hear a conversation from this distance, and it was considered impolite to involve oneself in such a manner. It took some courage to do so.
The Emperor, seemingly amused by the situation, continued sipping his wine without paying any attention to him. He appeared somewhat entertained.
Noticing that the Emperor wasn’t reprimanding the impudent noble, the noble smirked slightly and continued with even more vigor.
“Your Majesty, Countess Takano may be acting arrogantly due to her recent achievements, considering her young age. Therefore, wouldn’t it be an opportunity to reconsider the recent proposal that gained attention?”
“Is this about the Marchioness bestowal? Certainly, it wouldn’t be surprising to think she’s gotten carried away. What do you think, Houretsu?”
“Well, Miu delighted with Your Majesty’s proposal. She even pledged further loyalty, as she always says.”
I answered with a composed expression, while inwardly trying my best. I had never heard Miu use the word “loyalty” even once, but sometimes, I had to resort to deception.
The noble who had spoken up was part of the opposition to the Marchioness bestowal. Despite the risks associated with taking a disrespectful attitude, he likely saw it as an opportunity to voice his opinion.
The Emperor frowned slightly but gave up on trying to establish communication. However, even Duke Kann, who had suggested communication, inexplicably had a smile on his face as he nodded.
“So, for now, Acting Head of the Takano family holds full authority?”
“Yes, that’s correct. At present, I am the Acting Head.”
My words caused a stir among the surrounding nobles.
“So, let’s look forward to discussions with the Acting Head then. Starting from tomorrow, it will turn into a family-style stand-up party. Shall we deepen our friendship?”
Duke Kann’s eyes gleamed sharply as he spoke.
It seemed he had confirmed that Miu wouldn’t interfere. Recent rumors had suggested that Miu was ruthless at times, and she was even called worse than me, the “magician who can’t use magic”.
Starting from tomorrow, a stand-up party... It seemed I would need to be vigilant. It was a statement that hinted at the need for caution.
[You should just stay absent. Nothing good will come of it. As Grandpa said.]
Nimue’s message had also recommended her absence this time.
However, I had decided to attend because it would also affect Miu’s reputation as the Emperor bestowed her the title of Marchioness.
There was another reason for my determination.
[If you attend, those who kidnapped Aburage Viscounty will surely come to observe. Some will likely want to confirm that Miu cannot take action. So, it’s better for me if you attend.]
Another reason was to catch the tails of the criminals who kidnapped Aburage Viscounty.
Despite the danger, Miu was doing her best. As a father, I had to help her.
Even if it meant risking my life.
Seeing Duke Kanna’s mocking smile, Takano Houretsu strengthened his resolve again.