The Second Son of The Marquis Runs Away from Home ~ Lacking Talent, He Abandons Everything and Becomes an Adventurer ~ - 43

Chapter 43: Granting a Title

“A title for me…?”

I unconsciously repeated the words I had just heard. What Victoria had said was almost unbelievable.

In the Empire, a Titled Knight held authority over military matters, second only to the Emperor. In some cases, their power could rival that of a Duke. While the title itself was for one generation, the honor and privileges that came with it were undeniable.

“But…”

“I’ve already obtained approval from the other Titled Knights and high-ranking officials. You’ve provided evidence for the Empire’s research on Rare Drops, assisted Aria, contributed to obtaining Rare Drops, and even reduced the damage by defeating Fullod. Your merits and contributions to the Empire are more than enough to warrant the title.”

Victoria said this and took a sip from her cup. Then, she smiled ever so slightly and looked at me.

“Furthermore, as a Titled Knight, you’ll have the opportunity for marriage with the royal family. Without anyone objecting, you can even marry Aria.”

“W-What…?”

I unintentionally looked at Aria, who blushed and lowered her head.

“Um… Actually, my sisters pressed me about you and Berg…”

“…Did you tell them everything?”

I asked, and Aria nodded. She sighed, placing her hand on her forehead. Victoria, with her arms crossed, continued speaking.

“You don’t need to feel pressured. If you and Aria have that kind of relationship, I welcome it. Moreover, while I’ll grant you the title and its privileges, you won’t be required to fulfill the associated responsibilities.”

“Is this a form of deterrence, then?”

“Yes, partly. Those from the Launas Theocracy are vulnerable to those with wealth or a high status. Since the name of a Titled Knight is quite well-known, they won’t make any reckless moves against someone of your status.”

“I see. And the second reason?”

“The second reason is that I believe it would be more useful for you to move freely as an adventurer than to remain in the country as a knight. Besides, having a fallback can make a difference in ease of movement when dealing with troublesome matters.”

The more I heard, the less it sounded like a bad deal. While we had initially planned to go on adventures as just the two of us, having the Empire as our backup would undoubtedly make things easier.

… If, after helping Serena, we were pressured or forced into something, we could always escape to Grandkurz with the two of us. With that in mind, I gave my answer.

“Understood, I humbly accept.”

“Good. Now, as for the title… How about ‘Black Storm Knight’? Those who have observed your battles liken them to a storm.”

“Black Storm…? That works for me. Thank you.”

I replied, and Victoria rang a bell. A maid quickly appeared, and after giving her some instructions, Victoria dismissed her.

“Now, enough of these formalities. Berg, I’d like to hear your story.”

“Story…?”

“I enjoy adventure tales, you see. I’d love to hear the story of how you survived on that magical continent all on your own.”

“Oh, I’d like to hear that too!”

Philia chimed in, her demeanor softening once again.

There was no reason to hide anything, so I decided to tell them my story. Aria, too, seemed to feel a connection as an adventurer.

As we spoke, time passed quickly.

(…I’ve had enough.)

We were sipping on high-quality liquor that you wouldn’t find in an ordinary tavern, but even so, I was starting to feel the effects.

While Aria’s situation had been resolved, there were no guarantees about what would come next. It was also getting late.

“I apologize, but I think I’ve had a bit too much to drink, so I should take my leave here.”

“Very well.”

As I turned to leave, Ruskdite grabbed my shoulder. When I turned back, she kissed me, transferring the liquor she had in her mouth into mine.

“Mmmph!?”

A rush of intense alcohol flowed into my system, making my whole body feel hot.