From a different perspective.
Three men were gathered in the office of Count Weiwar.
They were Gilbert, Josef, and the old butler.
“Lord Ainzich has certainly grown, hasn’t he?”
“However, if he possesses such political acumen, I sometimes think it might have been better to keep him close at hand.”
As the head of the count’s household, it is indeed beneficial to have someone who can manage politics in his absence while traversing various areas of the territory, but that may be too much to hope for. If he were to entrust political matters to Ainzich, the power would become dispersed, and although the successor is decided to be Josef, it could become a source of conflict.
“I’m not good with complicated discussions, so having Rumeir and Ainzich around gives me a sense of security.”
“They chose to abandon their claims to succession and joined other families precisely because they recognize Josef. It can’t be helped.”
Well, in Rumeir’s case, he cheerfully gave up his claim to succession.
Gilbert spoke to Josef as if to counsel him.
“Though they have joined other families, they are still your brothers. They will support you, and you must also support them. We must cherish the bond of blood as brothers.”
“Ah, of course, Father.”
As blood relatives, they must support each other. If they oppose each other as brothers, they won’t be able to laugh about the royal family’s issues…
“I have high hopes for Lord Ainzich’s future.”
“Yes, he can be a bit too kind, but he is an interesting younger brother.”
The three of them were delighted by Ainzich’s recent growth. His remarks at meetings, his new initiatives within the territory, and his ability to handle the duke’s late daughter, Leila.
“…Even famous swordsmen and calculating sorcerers couldn’t end this chaotic era. Perhaps it might be someone like him who brings it to an end.”
“Count, that’s…”
Gilbert himself, who had said that, felt a bit guilty. He tried to brush it off, saying it was nothing. It was as if he had more expectations for Ainzich than for Josef or Rumeir…
Why does he feel such potential in someone without the talents of sword or magic? Gilbert felt a sense of frustration at not being able to explain it in words.
“Then as his brother, I shall strive not to bring shame upon him!”
“Yes, indeed, Josef, you should strive hard.”
With Josef’s quick thinking, the atmosphere returned to its original state.
A world after the chaos has ended… What kind of world will it be?
As Gilbert pondered such fantasies, he finished the glass of wine he had in hand.
