Chapter 150: The Introduction Meeting 3

The following day, leaving the slightly indisposed Polena behind, Cazeros and I once again stood before her ‘mother.’

However, I detected a palpable shift in her demeanor from the previous day.

‘How shall I put it… A slightly more amiable atmosphere than yesterday, albeit marginal.’

Truthfully, while the abrupt conclusion to our first meeting had been disconcerting, the marked absence of the earlier hostility in the duchess’s eyes brought me a measure of relief.

Seeming to perceive my thoughts, the duchess addressed me in a composed tone:

“I had some matters to attend to yesterday, necessitating my departure. Now that they have been settled, I would like to continue our conversation.”

“Yes, Your Grace.”

“Then let us revisit the fundamentals. What is it about our daughter that so appeals to you?”

A quintessential question, to which I provided a candid response from my heart:

“Everything about her is appealing. Her gentle spirit akin to silk, her beautiful countenance, and the fact that she continually supports and loves one as lacking as myself.”

“Regrettably, in inheriting my traits, her crucial aspects leave much to be desired…”

“M…Mother!”

“At a glance, that maid who accompanied you yesterday seemed far more accomplished than our daughter… Truthfully, would a man not find her more appealing?”

“Ugh…”

“…”

While seemingly innocuous, her words carried a piercing undercurrent.

Recognizing the need for prudence, I briefly pondered my response.

Evidently, remarking on physical attributes would be unwise in this situation. Yet, a clumsy dismissal could equally provide grounds for offense.

Ultimately, my reply was:

“While I cannot speak lightly on such matters… Within my heart, Cazeros has already transcended such trivial considerations. For I have become a man who cannot find meaning in life without her presence.”

“Ugh…”

“Hmm…”

My words, admittedly cringeworthy even to my own ears, left Cazeros flushed and flustered.

The duchess, too, seemed momentarily moved, clearing her throat lightly.

“To say such things… Well, at least from a mother’s perspective, it is not unpleasant…”

Perceiving her reaction, I felt a measure of relief at having navigated that perilous minefield.

The duchess’s gaze then turned towards Cazeros, seated beside me.

“Then, my dear, let me hear your perspective. Why does this man so appeal to you? What compelled you to pursue this marriage so ardently, even resorting to such grandiose measures?”

The duchess’s mildly stern tone prompted Cazeros to glance at me, her voice carrying a tinge of tension as she spoke:

“I, too, find everything about Lord Santana appealing…”

Her sentiments echoed my own, prompting me to inwardly acknowledge the simplicity and sincerity of her expression.

However…

“As I have mentioned before, the character he has demonstrated has served as a guiding light throughout my life. When I wavered, uncertain of true faith, his life showed me the path I should tread.”

‘…Hm?’

“The way he accomplishes so much through his own efforts, willingly sacrificing for others… Witnessing it, I realized the essence of one who claims to be a servant of God.”

‘…Hmm…’

“For years, Lord Santana’s presence has shone like a beacon upon me. The sole trustworthy figure in this world of falsehood and hypocrisy… How could I not love such a person?”

Cazeros’s words carried a fervor surpassing even my earlier cringeworthy declaration, verging on reverence rather than mere affection.

For a moment, I felt the weight of profound responsibility.

After hearing Cazeros’s sentiments, the duchess seemed unsurprised, regarding me with a slightly keen expression as she spoke:

“I see. If such is the depth of her devotion, bordering on reverence… As a mother, I would not wish to see my daughter’s hopes dashed.”

“…I shall endeavor to uphold my responsibilities with utmost diligence.”

“Yes, you had best. For if ever a tear falls from our daughter’s eyes, you shall receive no mercy from me.”

“I…I shall bear that in mind, Your Grace.”

Thus, the duchess’s permission was accompanied by a stern warning.

While a chill ran down my spine, I could not help but feel relieved by her significantly more amiable demeanor.

‘Whatever may have occurred, her hostility seems considerably diminished compared to yesterday… I wonder what could have brought about such a change?’

Although a few more minefields arose thereafter, the introduction proceeded relatively smoothly, beyond my expectations.

While curious about the reason behind her shift in attitude, I refrained from broaching the potentially volatile subject.

Recklessly treading where landmines might lurk could undo the hard-won amiability.

Shortly after, following a few parting admonitions and discussions of diplomatic matters, the tension-inducing ‘introduction’ finally concluded from my perspective.

“I shall reiterate my warning: if any harm befalls our daughter, there shall be consequences. Bear that in mind at all times.”

“I shall, Your Grace.”

“While I shall not object to taking a concubine, should any unsavory rumors reach my ears due to this matter, then…”

“Then you may consider me already buried. I shall never allow such a situation to arise, you have my assurance.”

“…Very well. Since our daughter holds you in such high regard, I shall place my trust in you this once. Take care not to betray that trust and invite disappointment.”

“Yes, Your Grace. Though lacking, I shall strive to live up to your expectations.”

Utterly drained following the introduction, I returned to our chambers with Cazeros.

“Phew…”

“You have endured much hardship. Truly…”

Regarding my evident exhaustion, Cazeros spoke with a mixture of concern and apology.

In response, I mustered a faint smile:

“Well, at least she ultimately granted her permission. Truthfully, I had anticipated even greater pressure.”

“On that point, I was mildly surprised as well. Considering Mother’s temperament, her restraint places her among the nobility.”

“I wonder what the reason could be…”

“…I’m afraid I do not know either…”

While the proceedings had been considerably arduous, the fact that permission was ultimately granted, rather than outright rejection, marked a distinct difference.

The contrast between yesterday’s confrontational approach and today’s more measured tone was glaringly apparent.

However, the underlying cause eluded us.

Pondering this mystery, my gaze fell upon Polena, soundly asleep and leaning against the wall – a sight that somehow exuded a sense of ease.

Exchanging wry smiles with Cazeros, I couldn’t help but remark inwardly:

‘Even in such circumstances, she sleeps so peacefully… One might assume she had returned home.’