The Torrequista territory governed by the Plaid family is not far away because it is also in Canale county.

　If we hurry, it will take less than a day.

　I rushed to Torrequista with a horse with Ritsu as my escort.

　I left in the morning and arrived at our destination before nightfall.

“It’s been a long time. Ars-sama, I wanted to see you.” (Lithia)

　Lithia came to pick me up.

　I haven’t seen her since our last meeting two months ago.

　Well, it’s been a long time since we’ve seen.

　It’s been two months, so she doesn’t look that much different from before. But she seems to have prepared for our meeting and is wearing quite a luxurious dress.

“It has been a while since we saw each other.”

　Lithia then politely greets Ritsu and my other vassals.

“Then I will guide you to the mansion.” (Lithia)

　We follow Lithia as she guides us to the mansion.

　The Plaid mansion looked a bit older than the Louvent family mansion.

　The flowers that are probably grown by Lithia are in full bloom in the surrounding garden.

　It is on February 10th, and it is already autumn. Many flowers die when it gets cold, but a wide variety of flowers were still in full bloom at this time.

　Entering the mansion.

　The inside was not much different from the Lamberk mansion.

　We were lead towards the drawing-room.

“Hey, you’ve come, Ars. Welcome.” (Hammond)

　Hammond-san welcomed us with a smile.

“It’s been a long time, Hammond-san thank you for approving a visit today.”

“No, I also wanted to see you. I’m glad you wrote.” (Hammond)

　Hammond-san urged me to sit in a chair, so I sat down.

　Lithia sat down on the chair next to Hammond-san.

“I’m sorry I didn’t prepare to welcome you. It was written in the letter that I didn’t have to entertain, and I thought it would be rude when you’re coming to talk about the war.” (Hammond)

“No, I’m grateful that you are willing to listen.”

“So, let’s get into the main subject right away. It was written that Lithia needs to be present, but what does that mean?” (Hammond)

　I explained that Clan-sama was looking for an assistant for future negotiations with the Emperor and the Governor-General of Paradigm. And I recommended Lithia to Clan-sama.

　Listening to me, Lithia and Hammond-san eyes widen is an extreme surprise.

“… Lithia for such a big role? Is it a command from Clan-sama?” (Hammond)

“It’s more of a request than an order. Clan-sama doesn’t seem to want you to be forced to obey. I said I would try to get permission.”

“Hmm … But can Lithia help with the negotiations … She’s only thirteen years old and has little experience in public affairs … and it may be dangerous because it’s a long journey.” (Hammond)

　I expected Hammond to be reluctant, and that’s the case.

“I feel that Lithia-sama has a very high political talent. It’s enough to have her fill that big role. And it’s not as dangerous, Clan-sama says that his son will be the head negotiator. So security will be tight.”

　By the way, Lithia’s current political value is 89. It hasn’t reached 90 yet, but it’s high enough.

“Hmm … I’m also Lithia’s parent, and I knew that Lithia had a special talent. If the escort is rock solid … well, it might be a good experience for Lithia. Letting her go may be good for her.” (Hammond)

　It seems that he changed his mind.

“Lithia, what do you think?” (Hammond)

　Hammond-san asked Lithia’s opinion.

　This is already a sure thing if Lithia just nods.

　Lithia thinks silently.

　And

“I will go, but I have two conditions.” (Lithia)

　With two fingers up, Lithia spoke.

“First of all, I would like Ars-sama to accompany me. Even if there are escort soldiers, I can’t be very relieved if we are protected by strangers. I will be relieved if Ars-sama is there.” (Lithia)

“No, I’m not talented enough to fight, and I’m not strong enough yet. I’m definitely weak … Should we take an escort from the vassals of the Plaid family?”

“I can be assured of Ars-sama is there.” (Lithia)

　With a strong argument that I can’t refute, I had no choice but to steel myself, “Oh, that’s right.”

“Then one more thing. When the war is over, you will marry me.” (Lithia)

　When I heard that remark, everyone in the room was confused.

“Well, wait, Lithia, you’re sure about getting married early? You’re already engaged with Ars …” (Hammond)

“The war will end about two years later. I’m fifteen and Ars-sama is fourteen. It’s not too early.” (Lithia)

　I am quick to accept the common sense of Japan, but it is not the common sense of this world. From the perspective of Lithia’s parents, Hammond-san, it still seems too early.

　Marriage after the war is over is considered a death flag, which is kind of ominous, but there is no problem with the marriage itself.

　I was never married to a woman and I thought I would get married someday. It’s just a matter of clearly deciding when it will be. The image of Lithia has changed a little since I first met her.

　In the first place, marriage is merit here as well, so I feel that the treatment of it is just a strange condition. Is there any reason why Lithia wants to hurriedly get married?

　The problem is that I have to go with her.

　Inevitably, I will be away from Lamberk for a long time.

　In the meantime, is everything going to be okay…?

“Ritsu, do you think it’s okay if I leave?”

　I talk quietly with Ritsu.

“There are bound to be many inconveniences without Ars-sama, but if you succeed, you will gain the trust of Clan-sama. Also, visiting various lands such as the Imperial City and Paradigm will be a good experience for Ars-sama. Maybe you can meet talented people. I think you should go.” (Ritsu)

“Hmmm……”

　Well, if Ritsu remains, I may not have to worry about the mansion.

　There are many merits if I go, as Ritsu said.

“Okay. I agree with both conditions.”

“Well, thank you. Then I would like to be an assistant to the negotiations.” (Lithia)

　She gave her confirmation with a smile.

　Hammond-san seems to have mixed feelings being the father about the marriage. But he gave me his approval, saying, “I have no objection.”

　It was settled that he would accept the request and conditions.

　And I was to accompany Lithia.