Chapter: 747
Luciano Niden. He’s a character who climbed all the way from a mere guard to the Second Manager of the Correctional Services in just four years, earning himself a knighthood along the way. In some ways, he’s like a downgraded version of the esteemed Pina from the Correctional Services.
But such trivial details about his background are no longer important. What truly matters is not Luciano’s rank, but rather his family ties.
He could very well become our Titi’s father-in-law. He might even be tied to me through this glorious canine marriage!
– “Luciano Niden is quite the famous name within the Administration. A bureaucrat who went from guard to Second Manager in just four years raises quite a few eyebrows.”
“Four years?”
– “Yes. He reached the position during last year’s mid-year regular promotions.”
I couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride at that. Our dog’s father-in-law climbed up in rank not in five years, but rather in four! Turns out he’s more competent than I thought.
– “But the recommendation came from the Judicial Minister, right? I’ve heard rumors circling around about the count’s faction. Why are you so clueless?”
“Was there really such a rumor?”
– “He’s already being mentioned as a potential candidate for the next head of the Correctional Services. Of course, it’s only speculation—and he wouldn’t seriously be considered for another five years—but it’s not normal for a commoner to even be mentioned as a candidate for such a position.”
“That much is true.”
I nodded, realizing the sense in his words.
In this Empire, while social mobility exists for those with talent, breaking the class barrier isn’t something that just anyone can do. Even getting a knighthood as a commoner denotes exceptional ability.
So, for him to have ascended to the role of Second Manager and earned a knighthood? That would have been entirely impossible without Luciano’s own capabilities.
– “Well, without the Minister’s backing, he’d probably only be a Senior Manager at best. Honestly, it’s an achievement for a commoner to rise to the position of Second Manager at all—”
“That’s of course my faction you’re talking about.”
– “Huh?”
I scratched the back of my neck awkwardly, faced with the incredulous look of the Information Manager, who seemed to be questioning my sanity.
I know, I know. Up until yesterday, I had no clue what Luciano had been up to, what rank he held, or whether he even received any accolades. Claiming him as part of my faction felt downright disingenuous.
But the Luciano of yesterday was merely a stranger to me. Today, however, things have changed.
“He’s my Titi’s father-in-law now.”
– “What?”
I saw him mouthing “What nonsense!” but decided to overlook it.
“Titi fell head over heels for the dog in his house. We’ll be meeting often—probably more than typical faction members would.”
– “I mean, that’s true, I suppose.”
Still, the Information Manager was sharp-minded and quickly began to put together the pieces. He understood just how powerful the phrase “dog father-in-law” could be.
Nobles forming factions usually don’t see each other often if they’re from different territories. They might exchange a greeting now and then, but Luciano, who lives in the same household as I do, has no choice but to visit me frequently thanks to Titi. Honestly, I bet he’ll see me more than those Northern faction members will!
So it’s more than fair to call Luciano part of my faction, and depending on his political ambitions, he could rise even further.
As Titi’s father-in-law, he absolutely deserves it. Just look at how far he’s come; he’s proven his capability.
“So, from an objective standpoint, what do you think of him?”
But since I wanted to deepen my relationship with Luciano, I needed more detailed information. The position of Second Manager is widespread within the Empire’s Administration, so I needed to assess his unique talents.
– “If you’re asking about his abilities, even without your support, he was always destined for success. His administrative skills are pretty competent, but in the Correctional Services, you have to deal with all sorts of characters, right?”
“That’s true.”
– “And if bad luck strikes, he might even have run-ins with high-ranking nobles. Most bureaucrats in the Correctional Services get gray hairs trying to navigate those waters…”
He paused, tilting his head in thought before cautiously continuing.
– “But Luciano remained surprisingly calm around high-ranking nobles. Some even speculated whether he was a noble bastard rather than a commoner—can you imagine?”
‘Ah.’
At that remark, I couldn’t help but chuckle.
Why was Luciano so at ease in front of those high-ranking nobles? The truth is, I’m probably the only one in the Administration who knows why.
‘What common noble would faze him?’
While he was a guard, Luciano met all sorts of aristocrats—like the Minister of Finance, the Duke of Marscilio, the daughter of the Iron-Blood Duke, and the second son of the Imperial Count. He even delivered letters from distinguished figures like the Vice Captain!
Having faced that level of intensity, facing off against squabbling aristocrats must feel like child’s play to him now. Even if an Earl were to face him, it would be a cakewalk.
‘He must have built quite the resilience.’
During the five days I spent imprisoned, I realized that Luciano met with my father-in-law and picked up essential traits that are vital for the Correctional Services.
What a beautiful, heartwarming story that churned my insides…
News of Titi being in love has turned the mansion upside down.
“I see now! That’s why you’ve been running out the door at sunrise lately!”
With a chuckle, Mar glanced down, giving Titi’s head a gentle pat.
“Shouldn’t we call Titi ‘Titi Krasius’ now? The Minister’s gotten married, and now the Crown Prince is too—Titi’s about to tie the knot! We might as well consider him a Krasius!”
Erich, on the other hand, suddenly made Titi a part of the Krasius family without so much as a second thought.
“Wait, Titi’s getting married!?”
Padie, who had been wandering nearby, stuffed with excitement at the mention of marriage.
Even though they all reacted differently, the underlying sentiment was the same. Wives, children, and even servants were wholeheartedly celebrating Titi’s springtime romance.
Titi has been the mascot of our mansion since the moment he joined our family. Not to mention he’s smart and quick-witted, he’s become an incredible help around here and the number one playmate for the kids.
‘It’s high time for Titi to find his happiness.’
With the joy he brings us, it’s only right he find his own happiness after all he’s done for us.
– Woof!
With the loving support and enthusiasm of everyone around him, Titi barked cheerfully, wagging his tail.
But maybe it’s just me, or are his eyes even shinier than usual? Looks like dogs do get prettier when they’re in love.
“I bet any pups from Titi will be clever and adorable, right? I can’t wait!”
“Well, since they’ll be half from another household, we can’t expect them all, but even getting half would be…”
Before I knew it, Rizie and Lynn, who had brought back a brush to groom Titi, were already dreaming up the future.
Assuredly, pups that inherit Titi’s lineage would be treasures everyone would want to get their hands on. Let’s be honest—my parents would probably beg me for even just one.
‘How many pups do dogs typically have?’
Staring at Titi, who quietly wiggled his tail, I couldn’t help but stroke my chin pensively.
Each animal has a different number of offspring, but I’ve heard dogs have some of the most variable litter sizes. Sometimes they’ll have just one or two, and other times they’ll rashly exceed ten.
I hope Jenny, as long as her health permits, can have as many as possible. Watching the little chubsters scurry around would be an absolute delight.
“Madam! Here’s the ribbon you requested!”
In the midst of picturing Titi and Jenny with their pups, I heard Yuris dash over from the corridor, holding an enormous red ribbon.
‘Oh.’
My breath caught at the extravagance of the ribbon, my gaze returning to Titi.
This ribbon… is going to be tied around Titi’s body? He’s going to wear it while meeting Jenny?
‘…Does he like it?’
As the owner, I was caught in a whirl of complex emotions, but Titi gazed at the ribbon with wide, curious eyes.
Seems like his standards for aesthetics are pretty lax.
*
Today’s a good day! The ladies have dressed me up beautifully!
“Our Titi looks so pretty! He could get married right this second!”
– Woof!
The red lady’s words hit home! I look more beautiful right now than I ever have! Thanks to all the lovely ladies!
“What if our Titi ends up marrying someone other than Jenny? He might charm every dog on the street as he walks by!”
– Yip yip!
But isn’t that a little unfair? I really like Jenny, so there’s no way I could marry anyone else!
“Hehe, I’m sorry. Titi definitely has to marry Jenny.”
– Woof!
So, I leapt up to lick the red lady’s face in joyful thanks.
Ah, these ladies are so kind! They’re cheering for me too!
“Then off you go! Go have fun with Jenny!”
At the red lady’s words, I wagged my tail excitedly.
I’ll definitely have a blast! Jenny will want to play with me as much as possible! All thanks to the ladies who dressed me up so well!
The ribbon they adorned on my head! The bells on my tail! The shoes they slipped onto my paws!
It’s all so perfect! Jenny will definitely be impressed!
“Isn’t this ribbon a bit too flashy…?”
But even my owner said it looked flashy! Jenny’s bound to find it striking too!
*
After working ten straight nights and finally taking three days off, I was eagerly ready to play with Helen while her mother was away in her hometown. However—
– Woof!
“I’m back,” I announced.
In that three-day span, I ended up receiving an unexpected guest.
It was none other than the esteemed Minister of the Information Department, the second father who shaped the man I am today. He has a treasured pet dog visiting my mansion at this very moment.
Specifically, he was coming to see Jenny, who’s staying in my mansion.
“Master?”
“Open up.”
“Yes!”
At my command, the guards scrambled to open the door.
In walked Titi, casually nodding in thanks while strutting inside. He honestly looked like he had a human-like intelligence, and it brought a chuckle to my lips.
Even though Jenny is smart for a dog, she pales in comparison to Titi’s brilliance.
“Jenny. Come here.”
– Woof.
As I called out to Jenny, she sulked over from the far end of the garden, dragging her feet in defeat.
What a shame. If she only showed even half the affection she displays toward my family—no, even a quarter—I’d be thrilled!
‘They have to get along.’
The moment Titi discovered how fond he was of Jenny, the Minister’s expression lit up. But if Jenny continued to push Titi away in the end, that would certainly lead to disappointment.
There’s no way I want to see him disappointed. And Jenny will eventually need a match as well. It’d be great if she could partner up with a charming male who truly adores her.
“Jenny.”
– Woof?
“I’m not saying you have to start dating him, but please, could you at least be kind to him? He’s your first friend since coming to the palace.”
At my words, Jenny looked straight into my eyes.
It felt a bit embarrassing. No way she’d grasp what I was saying.
“…Do as you wish.”
I ended up petting her head and smiling lightly.
With enough time spent together, eventually, Jenny will warm up.
*
About two hours after Titi arrived, the Minister himself made his appearance.
“I thought it might be good to get Helen some friends. I came along with my kids.”
“W-What an honor, Your Excellency!”
And on top of that, he brought along his own children who share his blood.
‘What do I do now?’
I was honored that he extended such trust and interest toward me, but it felt like an overwhelming amount of honor.
‘Should I prepare to move soon…?’
No, that wouldn’t do. That sounds like something five years ago, a subtle and ugly retreat.
Don’t forget, Luciano. You can’t run away any longer. Whatever happens, hold your head high.
I left behind my cowardliness when I tore up my letter of resignation five years ago.
My site has received a lot of DMCA notices, lol. From now on, I will update the MTL on https://darkmtl.com/.
The site is fast and lightweight because there are no ads yet. However, the theme is different from Cybor-TL, so take some time to familiarize yourself.
Support me by donating at least $10, and you'll have the right to request any novel from Novelpia (excluding 19+ content) using a newly developed tool.