Chapter 18: Marriage proposal
The elven kingdom's capital or rather, its main kingdom, Amberia, was one of the largest nations within the mystical races' territory.
The royal family was renowned for their overwhelming mana reserves and natural affinity for magic. It was said that every direct descendant of the Milford bloodline possessed at least three elemental attributes, something considered nearly impossible in most kingdoms.
Many of the continent's greatest mages, scholars, and spirit contractors originated from this glorious land. According to the books I read on our way here.
And honestly? The moment I stepped into the palace, I could immediately see why.
Towering crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling like frozen stars, illuminating the massive hall in warm golden light. Vines wrapped elegantly around ivory pillars while glowing flowers bloomed along the walls, radiating gentle mana into the air.
It felt less like a castle…and more like a sacred forest blessed by the spirits themselves.
As we walked into the main hall, rows of servants, maids, and butlers bowed respectfully on either side.
Then my eyes landed on the figure standing atop the grand forest-themed staircase.
An elven man dressed in pristine white descended gracefully, long silky blond hair shimmering beneath the light.
He is beautiful…
"Father!"
Isaac immediately ran toward him before practically launching himself into the man's arms.
The king caught him effortlessly, laughing softly as he embraced his son tightly.
"I'm so glad you're safe," he said gently, relief visible in his eyes. "When I heard what happened, I thought my heart would stop."
His voice carried warmth rather than authority.
"I'm sorry for worrying you…" Isaac mumbled guiltily.
"You're safe. That's all that matters."
I smiled softly at the tender reunion.
The king eventually set Isaac down before turning toward me. To my surprise, he took my hands into his own.
My body froze.
My followers' expressions instantly darkened. If killing intent had physical form, this man would've already been buried six feet underground at least a hundred times over.
I sweatdropped internally.
God, he's even more gorgeous up close…
Now I can see where the princes got their genetics from.
"I heard you were the one who saved my sons and Sir Luke," the man said sincerely.
"You have my deepest gratitude." He bowed his head slightly.
"P-please raise your head!" I blurted out, flustered. "We were only doing what anyone else would've done!"
"You are humble as well…" he chuckled softly before finally releasing my hands.
I internally sighed in relief.
"Allow me to properly introduce myself. I am Steven van Milford, current king of Amberia."
"I'm Shiori Komori," I replied with a polite smile. "Current ruler of the Ethereal City and overseer of its embassy."
Recognition flickered in his eyes.
"Ah, yes. I've heard quite a bit about you recently. Especially regarding Melvianne's rapid recovery."
I instantly straightened with pride. Of course he heard about me. My economic reforms are amazing.
"Would you accompany me for tea?" King Steven asked. "I would enjoy speaking with you further." His lips curved teasingly.
"It is quite rare to meet someone both competent and beautiful."
I nearly inhaled my own saliva. Meanwhile, behind me, Kuro looked one second away from starting a homicide.
…Scary.
We eventually moved to the terrace overlooking the palace gardens. The scenery was breathtaking. Massive glowing trees swayed gently beneath the breeze while spirit butterflies fluttered through the air.
Ryu, Kuro, Kyokota, and Isaac sat nearby at another table while I remained seated with the king.
"I truly must thank you again," Steven said quietly after the servants poured tea. "Had you arrived any later… we would likely be preparing a funeral." His expression dimmed slightly.
"It was nothing," I replied honestly.
"Everyone survived. That's what matters."
The king observed me carefully before smiling faintly.
"If there is ever anything you require, ask without hesitation."
Straight to business, huh?
.
"Actually…" I set my teacup down. "Do you know who orchestrated the attack?" The atmosphere shifted slightly.
Steven's smile faded.
"As ruler of a powerful kingdom despite possessing only average magical aptitude…" he said calmly, "many nobles view me as unworthy of the throne." His tone remained composed, but there was exhaustion beneath it.
"They intended to use my children as leverage and force my abdication."
I frowned slightly. Politics really are awful everywhere.
"I see…" Before I could continue, footsteps approached.
"Apologies for the delay, Father. Lady Shiori." Nathaniel arrived with his usual princely smile. Unfortunately for my sanity, he sat beside me.
Very close beside me. I subtly shifted away.
Ryu noticed immediately and looked extremely satisfied for some reason.
"Did you speak with Emily?" Steven asked.
"Yes," Nathaniel replied softly. "Though I avoided mentioning the incident. I didn't want to worry her."
I blinked.
"Who's Emily?"
The king's expression softened instantly.
"My wife."Then his gaze lowered slightly.
"Unfortunately… she hasn't been well these past few years."
"What happened?" I asked.
"She lost her sight shortly after Isaac was born," Nathaniel answered quietly.
My expression remain unchanged
"Was healing magic ineffective?"
"We tried everything," Steven said bitterly. "High-ranking healers. Spirit priests. Sacred magic." His fingers tightened around his cup.
"Her body healed completely… but her vision never returned."
"If only we possessed Moonlit Lilies…" Nathaniel murmured.
Ryu raised an eyebrow. "The legendary herb?"
Steven nodded tiredly.
"They're nearly mythical. And even if we obtained one, creating a successful potion would require an alchemist beyond modern standards."
I paused. Then slowly tilted my head.
"What if someone consumed the flower directly?"
Both elves stared at me.
"…Hypothetically," Steven answered carefully, "its mana would integrate into the body over time."
"But for the blood to properly absorb that level of healing essence…" Nathaniel added slowly, "…the individual would need to consume the flower regularly."
Silence.
Then Ryu, Kuro and Kyokota. All three slowly turned toward me with sparkling eyes. The king's and Nathaniel's eyes widened in realization.
I immediately sweatdropped.
Ah.Right.
———
We entered the queen's chambers shortly afterward.
A beautiful elven woman sat quietly beside the window, golden hair swaying gently beneath the sunlight.
Yet despite her beauty, Her eyes lacked focus. There was emptiness within them.
The room itself felt painfully silent. She turned slightly upon hearing us enter.
"Steven?" she asked softly, Her voice carried hope and sadness.
I walked toward her slowly. Then, before anyone could question me further, I unsheathed a blade.
SHING—
Everyone flinched as I sliced my palm open.
Nathaniel visibly paled. The metallic scent of blood filled the room.
I gently placed my glowing hand over Emily's eyes.
{Healing Master Activated}
Bright green mana illuminated the chamber.
Warmth spread through the air like sunlight after rain.
The queen trembled slightly. Moments later, I withdrew my hand before healing my injury immediately.
Silence filled the room. Then Emily slowly blinked Once, then twice. Her dull eyes gradually regained light.
She stared ahead shakily, directly at Steven.
"…I can see."
Her voice cracked as a tear rolled down her cheek. Steven froze, Nathaniel's breathing hitched.
Isaac looked utterly stunned.
"Honey…" Emily whispered tearfully.
"Isaac… Nate…"She stood unsteadily before rushing toward them.
"Mother!" isaac hugged her instantly. Soon the entire family embraced together, tears streaming down their faces.
The atmosphere became overwhelmingly emotional.
Mission accomplished.
Ryu tackled me into a hug.
"Wah—?!"
"I knew you could do it!" he grinned brightly while squeezing me tightly.
"Master truly is incredible," Kuro added while hugging my other side and nuzzling my cheek affectionately.
"S-so close…"
Kyokota merely smiled gently.
"Shiori-sama's kindness never ceases to amaze me." His praise somehow embarrassed me even more.
———
Later that evening, we gathered in one of the palace guest halls.
My followers occupied the lounge nearby while I sat across from King Steven and Queen Emily.
Nathaniel sat beside me again. At this point I had accepted my fate.
"Lady Shiori," Steven began formally, "you protected my sons and restored my wife's sight."
A servant stepped forward carrying a silver tray.
"Please allow Amberia to properly compensate you." He handed me a heavy pouch.i opened it curiously, Dark silver coins filled the bag.
"…How much is this?"
"Fifty platinum." he answered
My followers immediately choked on their tea.
"THAT MUCH?!" Ryu wheezed.
"Is that a lot?" I asked
"One platinum equals ten gold!" he whispered frantically toward me. I did the conversion mentally.
My eyes widened. Fifty million yen?!
My pupils literally transformed into currency signs.
White Lotus operational funds secured.
The king chuckled quietly at my reaction.
"In addition," he continued, opening a small chest, "these are royal passage crests."
Inside rested four beautifully engraved Milford insignias.
"With them, you and your retainers may freely access noble districts, checkpoints, and trade routes throughout Amberia."
That was…
Actually an extremely significant political privilege. Not just a gift. An alliance invitation.
I accepted the crests more seriously this time.
"Thank you."
Emily smiled warmly. "You truly would make a lovely daughter-in-law."
My brain blue-screened.
"Huh?!"
My followers immediately snapped their heads toward the queen.
"About that—" I started. Nathaniel suddenly looked nervous too.
Yes, what is it?" Emily asked titling her head curiously.
" How are you so accepting to this? I understand that Nate feels bad about my injury but You guys don't even know the first thing about me!" I protested calmly, not wanting to seem flustered
"Yes that's true, but if Nathaniel has chosen you to be his bride, then your obviously not a bad person." Steven smiled casually
"That's not what I meant! I'm not human to begin with!" I explained, taking off my ring as my fox features popped out.
Their eyes widened in surprise
"See! I've been lying about my species, clearly you won't accept a lier into your family!"
"Um, no that's not an issue you didn't technically lie and there isn't any taboo about Marrying a different species. it's just, most options that approached have weak magic affinity compared to us" Steve stated unbothered.
I wanted to slam my head against the nearest wall in futstration, these people are stubborn as ever!
"Also, Nate actually has a thing for animal girl so there's really no problem" Emily stated, silently sending me a sly wink .
"M-MOTHER?!" Nate squeaked, clearly embarrassed.
"Lady Shiori, while Nathaniel has expressed interest in courting you, we are not demanding an immediate engagement." Steven said
That was unexpectedly reasonable.
"We understand marriage among rulers is not a light matter," he continued. "Political standing, personal trust, compatibility, future responsibilities—these things require time."
"I'm relieved you think so," I sighed.
Emily laughed softly. "Still, our son has never shown interest in anyone before."
Nathaniel looked away awkwardly.
Steven continued carefully. "Frankly speaking, from a political perspective, a connection between Amberia and the Ethereal City would benefit both nations."
Ah.There it is, The negotiation angle.Amberia gains connections to Ethereal City's resources and trade. Meanwhile my city gains legitimacy, political backing, and access to magical infrastructure.
Mutual benefit.Not random romance logic.
"But," Steven added, "forcing such a union would only create resentment." He looked directly at me.
"So instead, I propose something simpler."
I blinked.
"A formal courtship period."
"…Courtship?"
"Nathaniel may pursue you openly," Steven explained. "However, your engagement will not be announced unless you personally consent."
That is actually fair. This guy doesn't seem like a playboy but I'm not one to assume. If he finds someone else that sought his interest then I'm more than happy to step aside.
"And what if Nate falls for another?"
"Then the matter ends there," Steven answered honestly.
Nathaniel looked disappointed for half a second before nodding.
"…I understand."Unexpectedly mature.
Emily smiled knowingly at me.
"Though I do hope you'll give him a chance."
I sighed before rubbing my forehead.
"Fine. A courtship period is acceptable."
Nathaniel instantly brightened.
Golden retriever prince energy activated.
"However," I added quickly, "I have conditions."
Steven looked intrigued.
"Go on."
"No political pressure.
"…Reasonable."
"And absolutely no marriage discussions until I'm older."
Emily looked mildly disappointed. Steven coughed into his fist.
"Understood."
I narrowed my eyes suspiciously. They definitely planned to move faster originally.
Nathaniel then carefully extended his hand toward me.
"…Then may I properly court you, Lady Shiori?"
I stared at him for a moment.Then shook his hand.
"…You may try."
Nathaniel smiled brilliantly.
Dangerous.Very dangerous.
———
{A Few Days Later}
After explaining parts of my abilities and spiritual space to the Milfords—excluding anything about my reincarnation, White Lotus, or my brother obviously—Nathaniel began visiting frequently.
Very frequently.
Too frequently.
I finished my paperwork for the day before heading outside with Eliot for gardening.
Peace.
Finally.
"Lady Shiori!" i froze instantly.
Oh no. I turned slowly.
Nathaniel smiled brightly while approaching.
"Hello, Nathaniel…"
"Just Nate is fine," he replied before noticing Eliot. "And this is?"
"This is Eliot cin Melvialine," I introduced.
"Ambassador of the Ethereal City."
"A pleasure," Eliot greeted politely.
"Likewise," Nathaniel replied with a smile that definitely looked forced.
"And where are you headed?"
"Gardening." We eventually arrived at my garden.
Or rather, My battlefield of weeds.
I stared in horror.
"I thought Haru was maintaining this…"
I immediately knelt to start pulling weeds.
"What a beautiful garden," Nathaniel commented. "It's unfortunate to see it neglected."
"I'll help," Eliot said instantly.
"I'll help as well," Nathaniel added at the exact same time.
The two stared at each other.
Smiling.
Not smiling.
What's up with them?
I continued weeding peacefully. After all was done , we sat together for tea and cookies.
"So, Lady Shiori," Nathaniel began, "have you considered attending the Magic Academy?"
"Academy?"
"All nobles are expected to attend once they reach sixteen," Eliot explained.
"Then why aren't you both there?"
"We're currently on seasonal break." i hummed thoughtfully.
School again, huh… Honestly, That sounded kind of nice.
Nathaniel smiled slightly.
"The academy accepts all races, so your heritage won't be an issue."
"I'd like for you to attend as well."
"Sounds interesting," I admitted. "How do I apply?"
"Usually through noble recommendations," Eliot answered.
"No school for me then," I sighed dramatically.
"For ordinary applicants perhaps," Nathaniel replied. "But influential sponsors may also recommend candidates."
"Then perhaps your family?" I asked hopefully.
Nathaniel grimaced apologetically.
"I'm afraid royal families are limited in recommendation usage. Amberia has already allocated ours."
I deflated.
"What about yours, Eliot?"
"My family is dead.
"…Right."
Awkward.
Nathaniel cleared his throat.
"There may still be another option."
"Hm?" I looked up
"The Glacier family of Buarheld."
"The beastfolk kingdom?" I blinked.
Eliot nodded.
"They're currently searching for a tutor for their oldest prince." Nathaniel smiled knowingly.
"He failed the academy entrance exam previously and apparently possesses… a difficult temperament."
Ah.A troublesome child character.Classic.
"If you accept the tutoring position," Nathaniel continued, "they would likely sponsor your academy recommendation."
Honestly?
That sounded fun. Potentially chaotic.
But fun.
Eliot smiled encouragingly.
"You're intelligent and patient, Lady Shiori. I think you'd excel at it."
I imagined teaching some spoiled beast prince while secretly building influence in another kingdom.
…
Wait.
That actually sounds strategically useful. New political connections. Potential trade routes.Academy access.Future allies.
My otaku villainess instincts activated instantly.
"It might work," I muttered thoughtfully.
Nathaniel stood afterward.
"Then I'll arrange a meeting with the Glacier family."
"Alright," I nodded. "I'll look forward to it."
Oh?
A beastfolk kingdom arc?
Now things were getting interesting.