Chapter 136

Be Clear
“Reinhardt, which of the books in my household did you read?”

“It was a biography of the Saintess who appeared in this country. There was a line that said she was sent by God to purify cursed wastelands and violent monsters.”

“Why were you reading about saints in the first place?”

“I heard from the beastkin who came to our domain that a saint had appeared in their homeland, and Father also told me a Saintess descended in our country 150 years ago. I got curious.”

“So for now, we can assume that there’s no immediate danger to our country, yes? Elder Rufas, please read up on saint-related books and prepare some countermeasures just in case.”

“Leave it to me.”

“Then, once the dragon safely reincarnates, let’s have another audience. Reinhardt, the responsibility is heavy, but see that the dragon reincarnates safely.”

“Yes.”

“Sorry, but the princess also wishes to see the dragon egg. I’ll arrange for you to visit her on your way back.”

Ugh... I’m not good with Her Highness the Princess. But I can’t say no. Guess I have no choice.

As soon as the Westland family left the room—

“That boy is always up to something fascinating. That idea of enhancing the World Tree’s leaf power using the Plant God’s growth acceleration? That’s a perspective I never would’ve come up with.”

“Duke, you may be amused, but Reinhardt may well be a Child Loved by the Gods.”

“You mean like the Saintess?”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

“It’s more beneficial to the country to let him act freely—just look at his achievements: the dragon scales, everything so far.”

“Chancellor, but surely the church will make a fuss, calling him a Child of the Gods.”

“Shouldn’t we take steps to ensure the church doesn’t steal him away?”

“Your Majesty,” several voices echoed.

“... It’s not that I haven’t thought of it. But give me a little more time.”

“Then let’s leave it to His Majesty.”

“Duke, I understand you’re advocating because you’ve been offered business deals from Westland, but we cannot allow Reinhardt to be taken by the church or another country. We must act quickly.”

“I understand the urgency, but I’m asking for just a bit more time.”

“If Your Majesty insists… very well. But please understand we don’t have much time.”

I thought we were done, but apparently not.

Father stayed behind for talks regarding the auction of the dragon scales, so I alone have to meet with Her Highness.

As I walk through the palace with the backpack on, following a palace attendant, I can’t help but think—this place is huge. How does the attendant even remember the layout?

We ended up in the garden. We’re meeting outside, in this heat? Not in a room?

I followed the attendant to a gazebo near a fountain. Her Highness was already there.

“I apologize for the delay,” I said, bowing.

“No need. I arrived early. Please, have a seat.”

The attendants place chilled fruit juice on the table and leave. The guard knights move to a distance where they couldn’t hear our conversation.

“…???” What is this secret meeting vibe?

Her Highness chuckled.

“Young master Reinhardt, you wear your thoughts on your face. That must be nice. I was trained to hide all emotions…”

“Did you have something to discuss with me… aside from the egg?”

“It’s true that I wanted to see the egg. But I also knew I had to be honest with you, or you wouldn’t accept me. May I see the dragon egg?”

I can tell she has something else she wants to say. No avoiding this.

I took out the dragon egg from the backpack and placed it on the cushion on the table.

“My, it glows… how beautiful. Just like dragon scales.”

“It’s made of dragon scales, so naturally it has the same shine,” I said, trying to stick to harmless conversation. Hurry up and get to the point already.

“You know, I think I can continue to be of use to you. The tea trade, the Garuda family… and I have my title as well…”

“I’m only eight, so if you expect me to read between the lines, I can’t. I’m not the heir, either, so I don’t care much for noble phrasing.”

What are you trying to say? Just say it clearly.

Then, as if having made a decision, Her Highness spoke with a serious expression.

“Reinhardt, I want to become your older sister.”

“… Huh?”

What is that supposed to mean?

What do you think about this chapter?