Chapter 468
I decided to switch my approach regarding Erich’s love life from actively intervening to simply observing. Timing is everything in meddling; if you’re on top of them 24/7, everyone just ends up exhausted. If the fatigue accumulates and Erich starts shouting, “I can handle this myself!” he’ll be left with a sore fist, and I’ll have a migraine from trying too hard.
But luckily, ever since the banquet, Erich has shown a change. According to Serra and Zenobia, he’s been reaching out more frequently, and he’s even started to think things through before he speaks—something previously unthinkable for him. At this rate, I could afford to sit back and observe.
Hope is on the horizon. Last year was like flushing my time down the toilet because of Erich’s cluelessness, but I have a feeling this year will be different. Sure, I might be popping champagne prematurely, but things are definitely looking up compared to last year.
– Your Grace.
Just as I was daydreaming about Erich standing at the altar, the voice of Count Kisele came through the transmission line, snapping me back to reality.
Wow, I was way off in la-la land there. Here I was, picturing Erich getting married when I was still in my rookie phase—like dreaming of being discharged while just assigned to my unit!
– I hope I didn’t catch you at a bad time?
As I mentally gathered my wits, Count Kisele seemed to sense my distraction and began his report.
“I was just lost in thought for a moment. It’s nothing for you to worry about, Count.”
I waved my hand dismissively at the slightly withdrawn Count Kisele.
He was the steward managing the territory in my absence, so his contacting me was important. Even if I were busy, it was only proper to give him some of my time.
– Then I shall continue.
“Go ahead.”
With an uplifted demeanor, Kisele quickly dove into his report. The market in our territory is expanding, trade with the East is running smoothly, and even wild horses have been crossing the frozen river into our lands.
‘Nothing major then.’
The more I listened, the more relaxed I felt. Kisele’s updates merely indicated that the Weiridia territory continues to develop rather than face any pressing issues.
Of course, there are bound to be problems in any populated area, but as long as it isn’t significant enough to warrant a report to me, I’m good!
“Wild horses?”
In that regard, I had to ask. Did I really need to know about wild horses crossing the border? From what I’ve heard, they sound like they’ve been roaming the Northern Regions and just happened to wander over when the river froze.
– Yes, Your Grace. It seems…
Kisele’s follow-up explanation made me chuckle. The number of wild horses entering the territory was not exactly staggering—maybe just a handful. When compared to all the horses in Weiridia, it was barely a pinch, yet their behavior was noteworthy.
The wild horses that trespassed into our managed pastures challenged our own Weiridian horses for dominance, and shockingly, they came out on top!
Now, they lounge around grazing, lazing about, playing with each other, and even mingling with our own horses.
‘Are they gangsters or what?’
It’s absurd! Why on earth did they think they could roll into Weiridia and cause havoc? Are they trying to establish a turf war?
– At first, we tried to drive them away, but they don’t even flinch at our threats. When we attempted to capture them, they just ran off, only to come back again.
“They’re a tough bunch, huh.”
Kisele’s tone reflected a mix of fatigue and amusement. It was unusual that pesky newcomers beat our own horses and seemed smart about it too.
– So, I have a proposal for you, Your Grace.
“Speak.”
– These wild horses’ origins are a mystery, but their size and abilities seem solid enough. Would you consider leaving them be to mate in the pasture on their own?
I suddenly understood why Kisele felt the need to report this wild horse incident.
Horses are strategically valuable assets in military terms, and quality horses are regarded as high-tier resources. Thus, spreading the genes of fine horses is a major policy among various lords and territories alike.
But now they’re suggesting I spread the genes of unknown wild horses? It might look good at first glance, but if there are unforeseen flaws in them, that would be a headache. No matter how much of a steward he may be, this isn’t a decision that can be made without consulting a Count like me.
“Are you sure about this?”
After some thought, I turned the question back to Kisele. Can he handle the risks of potentially damning our strategic resources?
In reality, even if there were some flaws, it wouldn’t be catastrophic. The genes would only spread within Weiridia, which is still vastly smaller than the Northern Regions. If this genetic roll of the dice fails, we could always bring in our elite horses from the North to restore everything. It would be a hassle and cost some coin but nothing insurmountable.
However, pushing forward without being fully confident wouldn’t be wise. If funds and efforts get wasted on a wild card, it’ll be too late when I need those resources.
– Yes. After observing over the past two months, I feel it’s worth trying.
And Kisele answered without hesitation.
Hmmm.
“Very well, let’s give it a shot.”
– Thank you, Your Grace.
Since he was being so earnest, I gave him my approval.
Considering it, Kisele has made his first autonomous suggestion as the number two in the Count’s household. I didn’t want to brush it off too harshly; he needs to maintain his dignity. He’s already a new nobleman living off bureaucratic strength, so it’s tough for him as it is. I wouldn’t want to be blamed for shutting him down!
“By the way, how are the new officials doing?”
With that in mind, I casually brought it up to Kisele, who was still bowing his head in gratitude.
– They’re young and inexperienced, struggling a bit with the gap between theory and practice, but they have energy and skills that surpass expectations. Experience will come with time, and they’ll grow into capable officials.
“Sounds like quite the praise.”
Sure enough, Kisele began showering compliments after I prodded him just a little. Of course, some of the incoming officials were students from the student council that I had recommended, so it felt a bit tricky to be overly critical.
‘And he’s giving a little nod to his daughter too.’
Kisele’s daughter also made it onto the list of new officials. By complimenting the talents I had backed, he was also lifting up his child’s chances, which sure was a win-win.
“Then let’s ensure the newbies can participate in this undertaking. There are still plenty of empty spots to fill, so we should make the most of who we have.”
– Yes, I’ll arrange it.
Upon hearing my words, Kisele paused for a moment in surprise, followed by a look of gentle excitement as he nodded in response.
So, he’s quick on the uptake!
‘If he took longer to grasp it, that would have been concerning.’
Yes, Kisele may be a steward, but there are still countless high positions vacant. Those roles are currently being temporarily filled by Kisele himself or other mid-tier officials with some experience.
So when I spoke of filling those vacant roles with available talent, especially mentioning the inclusion of newbies, Kisele should have picked up that younger officials could also ascend to meaningful positions.
‘His daughter could be seated in an important role; she’d be motivated to work hard.’
That’s more than enough encouragement. Kisele will undoubtedly pour every last bit of effort into this genetic project, driven by his duties as both a steward and a father. When a family is involved, people can show unexpected potential.
‘Hope it all goes smoothly.’
I can’t help but feel a little excited. If this turns out right, Weiridia’s horses might be treated like top-tier bloodlines! Who knows? Maybe some of them will even flaunt the prestige of the magnificent horses of yore.
I’d be more than willing to grant titles if it goes that well!
I’m balancing the personal mission of my sister’s love life while overseeing the territory’s project. Even in my honeymoon period, I feel like I’m maximizing my time well.
But now that honeymoon period is about to wrap up.
“I don’t want to go to the Academy.”
As I jokingly murmured half-seriously while laid on Mar’s lap, she chuckled softly.
After all, here’s a twenty-something husband whimpering to his wife about not wanting to go to school. If I were in her shoes, I’d be laughing too!
“You can’t complain. We do need to go to the Academy.”
“But what’s the point? I won’t even get a diploma.”
At that, Mar bit her lip. It seemed like she was holding back a laugh because a joke like that might hurt my feelings.
It was a considerate gesture, but it only made my heart ache more. I should have countered with something like, “Well, I haven’t even attended the entrance ceremony,” instead.
“Still, at least we won’t be spending nights apart at the dorms like we might have if it weren’t for this.”
“If that were the case, I would have gone to the Academy myself.”
Quickly changing the subject, Mar nodded vigorously in agreement.
It was a little bittersweet. My joke about not getting a diploma had struck exactly the right chord with her!
“… Honestly, I want to act bold and tell you to stay at the Academy, but just thinking about not being able to see you for even a day breaks my heart. I’m so sorry.”
Then Mar, who had been gently stroking my hair, pressed her lips against my forehead.
After we discussed things with the others, it was decided that this year at the Academy would involve “Trixie and me teleporting in and out daily while Rizie and Lynn stay at the dorm.” It’s a luxury made possible thanks to the great mage known as Trixie!
Because of this, Mar was feeling a bit guilty. She worried that we, because of her, would have a tad more hassle on our plates.
“What are you talking about? If I had told you to stay at the Academy, I’d have felt hurt.”
“Really?”
Seeing Mar’s soft smile made me wish she were younger than Rizie and Lynn. If only she were a student, there’d be no worries—
‘But then she might’ve still been single.’
Thinking it over, it was obvious if Mar had been a student, she would probably still be unmarried. Pros and cons indeed.
“After class*, I’ll head home right away. Dinner will be ready by then, so… Gah!”
Suddenly, Mar began to gag, making me bolt upright.
Excitement and anticipation rushed through me. In the past, I would’ve worried that maybe she had eaten something bad, but in this situation, I could only think of one reason for such a gagging fit.
“Mar, are you okay?!”
Even while trying to curb my excitement, I asked her how she was doing first. Maybe my guess was just wishful thinking. She could genuinely be feeling sick.
But Mar’s expression suggested she shared my anticipation.
“… Titi, go fetch the steward for me.”
– Your Majesty!
From the corner, Titi, gnawing on a cushion, perked up at my words and dashed out.
That clever little thing will come back with him in no time!
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.