Happy Daily Life of a Reincarnated Noble Blessed with Vassals - Chapter 4

“We visited the capital of Count Canilunya’s territory, Resh.”

“Canilunya’s territory, huh? That’s to the east of the capital, right? So, pretty much the exact opposite of where we are now. That must have been a long trip.”

After asking Jean-Jacques to report, Odolski joined us. Meanwhile, Mahdavikia, despite not being invited, brought drinks and snacks, plopped down on the sofa, and made himself comfortable. Jean-Jacques shot him a look filled with irritation, but Mahdavikia just egged him on to get started. Resigned, the old butler began his report.

“We could’ve returned faster if it had been just me and Gramps, but we had Yumika with us. I didn’t want to push her too hard.”

“Yumika did very well. The negotiations with our hosts went smoothly, and we returned about three days earlier than planned. Now, to the main topic, Lord Rex. Soon, the daughter of Count Canilunya will be visiting us with her entourage.”

Huh, wait. Is this some sort of arranged marriage meeting? Or has the marriage already been decided? Have I ever met her? Maybe I’ve at least seen a portrait?

Ugh, I can’t remember anything from before. Command!

[You have no prior acquaintance with Lady Amy of Canilunya, nor have you seen any portraits. She’s very much kept out of the public eye, so much so that she hasn’t even debuted in high society. There are rumors that she has burn scars on her face or that she’s an enormous woman, but none of these claims are substantiated.]

Wow…

[For your information, the common perception of you, Your Excellency, is that you are a berserker who only cares about slaying magical beasts.]

Great. I’m basically a walking warning sign. But considering how Jean-Jacques still has to sort through a bunch of marriage offers for me, our family’s still a pretty big deal, huh?

[If anything, the number of marriage offers is surprisingly low. Noble marriages aren’t typically based on love. For a family as influential as the Hesselinks, it’s normal to receive even more proposals. Although your land is dangerous, wives generally reside in the capital, ensuring their safety. The reduced number of offers is likely due to your declaration at the royal ball, where you proclaimed, “I won’t marry unless it’s for love!”]

Wait, I really said that? It might’ve sounded noble to me, but I bet the aristocracy thinks I’m a complete eccentric.

[The royal family has long considered the Hesselink lineage to be full of uniquely “loosened” individuals, so it likely didn’t raise many eyebrows.]

Yeah, I’m not sure that’s as reassuring as you think.

“My lord? Is something troubling you?”

“Oh, no, just thinking. I’d heard she’s a bit of a mystery. What’s she like?”

“Mary, what’s your take?”

“Me? Hmm, honestly, I think she’s a good match for big bro. She’s just as ‘loosened’ in the head as him and Big Bro Odo. In a good way, of course.”

“What’s that supposed to mean? ‘Loosened’ like the young master?”

“To put it simply, she could hold her own against Big Bro Odo or Gramps for about five minutes.”

“Oh, I see. So she’s that kind of ‘loosened’.”

“Interesting. I’d love to spar with her.”

“That’s not the whole story, though. She might sound dangerous, but Yumika immediately warmed up to her, and Lady Amy seemed to enjoy taking care of her. So, I don’t think she’s a bad person.”

“I concur with Mary’s assessment. We’ve met many young ladies, but none impressed me enough to recommend them—except Lady Amy. I believe she will be a great asset to our household.”

“If Yumika’s already attached to her, then I’m all in! I’ll make sure to cook up a storm for your wedding, young master!”

“I support your decision, my lord. Do as you wish.”

Wow, everyone’s giving the green light without hesitation. Looks like refusing isn’t an option anymore. Guess I better accept it.

“Alright, let’s pull out all the stops to welcome Count Canilunya’s family. Mahdavikia!”

“Yes, young master?”

“Let’s capture their hearts with a feast before the wedding. I’m counting on you.”

“Understood! Heh, I;m excited!”

“Odolski!”

“Yes, my lord!”

“Start clearing out the magical beasts near the mansion. I want the area as safe as possible before they arrive.”

“Leave it to me. Even if it costs my life, I won’t let those beasts get anywhere near the estate.”

“Mary!”

“Yeah?”

“Keep an eye on every little move they make when they arrive. I don’t expect trouble, but we can’t afford to overlook anything.”

“Stealth is my specialty. If anyone tries to embarrass you, big bro, they’ll disappear without a trace.”

Let’s not go that far. Keep it peaceful.

“Jean-Jacques!”

“At your command.”

“I entrust you with the entire welcome preparations for the Canilunya family. Handle everything as you see fit.”

“Oh! This Jean-Jacques shall live up to your expectations, Lord Rex!”

Mission delegation complete. I threw out orders one after another to seem like a competent ruler, and the responses were spot on. I’m relieved. Honestly, if Amy’s strong, that’s a huge plus. The more fighters we have, the better. Nobles’ wives might stay in the capital, but that’s only because they can’t fight. If things go well, maybe I can convince her to join in.

“Alright, I’ll head out into the forest as well.”

“What?”

“Mahdavikia, what’s the best meat for a celebratory feast?”

“Uh, well, if it’s for a celebration, it’s gotta be dragon meat.”

Dragon meat, huh? Sounds intense. Command, is there a dragon I can actually beat?

[Yes. While I can’t guarantee an encounter, Assault Dragons are known to appear frequently in the forest.]

What’s their threat level?

[On average, they rank around B.]

I can handle that. Time to go dragon hunting this afternoon!