After Retirement, Living a Stud Life in Another World - 150

Chapter 150: Preparing for the Outing

“Don’t linger too long in the capital…”

“At times like this, I’ve appointed Max as Lord Assistant so I can be away longer. Please, Lord Maximilian!”

“Sigh… Can you stop calling me that?”

That’s right. To achieve my ambitions of delegating authority, I’ve burdened Max with quite a heavy load.

I released him and his aides from their slave status under my authority. Then, I pleaded with Her Majesty to force a knighthood upon him recently and officially appointed him as ‘Lord Assistant’. Even though it might seem a bit excessive to grant a knighthood to a prince, especially to a male prisoner of war… This treatment caused quite a stir domestically and among the war slaves. The precedent-focused nobles made their usual fuss, but Her Majesty, who is usually yielding, surprisingly stood firm this time. Well, occasionally she needs to show some king-like traits.

“It can’t be helped. With a title comes various responsibilities.”

I smirk like a devil. It feels a bit awkward seeing Max go through what Her Majesty has done to me in the past, but I suppose it’s necessary once you wield power.

“I can’t help but feel trapped… But honestly, I’m grateful. With my position clarified, my subordinates have improved their movements, and it’s easier to give orders.”

Yes, by utilizing Max extensively and assigning him roles one after another… no, providing roles, the war slaves who witnessed this have already begun to consider him as the number two in Baden territory, or rather, practically the top in practical matters. Even those from the duchy no longer raise doubts about Max’s commands. Of course, over the past half year, his leading various events, including the dating system, has contributed to expanding his support.

After all, Max is mentally mature. While I outright dislike having status imposed on me, he calmly considers what he should do now, accepts it obediently, and gives it his all. I’ll try to learn a little from him.

“Why not just try being a lord?”

“I’d really rather you didn’t!”

We laughed heartily. Max is ten years older than me… but somehow, I feel like we’ve become real friends.

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“Please be very careful…”

Ayaka-san, who always directs a gentle smile towards me, seems to have a face full of “concern” this time.

“I’ve assigned about ten members of the clan. They’re prepared to sacrifice their lives to protect Lord Lutz in case of emergency. Please escape while they buy time.”

“That’s… alright?”

“…Yes.”

Ayaka-san, who usually nods and smiles silently at what I say, seems to exert an immense pressure on me today… I have no choice but to comply. Having admitted defeat, Ayaka-san showed me her usual gentle smile.

“Please take care of yourself. Please show your child the face of their father.”

Saying this, she quietly took my hand and pressed it against her lower abdomen. I don’t know if there’s a child there yet, but I feel a warmth that warms my heart. That’s right, I already have a responsibility to guide the children to the future.

“Yeah, of course, I’ll definitely come back alive. So don’t worry… It’s not good for the baby if mom is anxious, right?”

“Yes…”

While loosening her cheeks, there was something shining slightly at the corners of her lowered eyes. I see, is this upcoming trip to the capital really that dangerous…

“I can’t say it’ll be fine, but we’ll assign ten magic users of B-rank or higher from our side. They should greatly assist in reconnaissance and long-range combat. I believe this will significantly reduce the burden on the Lord’s family.”

Ayaka-san nodded lightly at Max’s reassurance. With the Empire’s proud wind-attributed mages gathered, the chances of being caught off guard would indeed decrease substantially. By the way, Ayaka-san is referred to as “Lord” and Gretel as “Lady” in Baden. I have no idea what the distinction is all about.

“Yeah, I’m counting on you.”

“It’s not just that, but the ten accompanying this time have all volunteered. I think it’s a valuable commitment… If it’s possible, I would like them to receive personal rewards from Her Royal Highness the Princess, but…”

Huh? Max usually speaks decisively, but he seems a bit hesitant this time.

“I’ll prepare some gold coins then. We won’t overlook danger pay.”

“No, it’s not about money. What they seek as a reward… are seeds of Lutz.”

Oh no, is it going to end up like this again this time?