Easygoing Territory Defense by the Optimistic Lord

On the way back to the lord's manor, various questions kept coming.

"Did you build all these houses by yourself?"

"Even that magnificent drawbridge?"

"Are there no other production-type magicians around?"

"What are those materials? How strong are they?"

I answered these questions lightly as we arrived at the lord's manor.

Sitting back down on the sofa opposite them, I spoke.

"Now then, do you understand that the Marquis Fertio family did not entrust me with this land as part of some conspiracy?"

Panamera seriously put her hand to her chin and pondered.

"Hmm... I can't fully accept it, but I understand. Originally, Sir Ferdinand was supposed to bring up the marriage proposal for Miss Arte as well..."

Panamera glanced at Arte.

I see. So, if Arte was seen as a threat, they were planning to cleverly have Viscount Panamera mediate the engagement to prevent hostility.

Well, it wasn't a surprise—it was one of my guesses.

"This region has a high chance of powerful demonic beasts appearing. I plan to continue reinforcing the castle walls and greatly developing the village. But I have no desire to fight anyone. If you understand that, then that's enough."

I emphasized firmly.

Yet upon hearing this, deep wrinkles formed between Panamera's brows.

"Indeed, this village will continue to grow. Rather, I am suddenly very interested. Not only in this village but in you, Lord Van."

She said that with a ferocious smile like a wolf who has found its prey.

"Miss Arte is someone I personally find intriguing. When I heard Sir Ferdinand intended to engage her, I strongly opposed it. After all, the family she would marry into is a marquis family that might become an enemy. The groom is the youngest child, sent to govern a remote frontier at a young age. Whether he’s a capable lord or a discarded incompetent, I thought Arte would likely be unhappy."

"Yes, that's true. She might face cold treatment, live in a poor remote region without supplies or money, or be destroyed along with the village by bandits or demonic beasts."

Agreeing with Panamera’s grim prediction, Arte’s complexion worsened by the moment.

Thinking about it, perhaps Arte looked gloomy from the beginning because she hadn't fully resolved to sacrifice herself. She was just lamenting her future, sinking into a tragic mood.

Well, in a way I could understand, having been in a similar situation myself. I nodded in agreement.

As I watched Arte’s face, Panamera folded her arms and tilted her chin.

"Exactly. That’s why I came here intending, for various reasons, not to let Arte get engaged."

After saying that, Panamera continued with a "but."

"My feelings have changed greatly. If it’s an engagement with Lord Van, I am very much in favor. You might be a little younger than Miss Arte, but you are nearly perfect in every respect: far-sightedness beyond your years, calmness, care for the villagers and subordinates. Despite being sent to the frontier, you have followers loyal to you. You have the mental strength and knowledge to overcome your misfortunes. And then there’s your magical power that no one could have imagined... If we were close in age, I might even consider offering myself as your fiancée."

With a mischievous grin like a playful boy, Panamera praised me.

Being complimented made me really happy. Maybe because of the praise, my impression of Panamera instantly improved. More praise, please, Lady Panamera.

Though I was inwardly dancing for joy, I tried not to show it on my face.

Panamera looked at me with an amused expression, then shifted her gaze to Arte.

"What do you think, Miss Arte? I consider him an ideal match. Now it’s just a matter of mutual consent."

Upon hearing that, Arte tightly gripped the hem of her skirt with both hands.

"I-I... I think Lord Van is a nice person, but... I still don’t really understand..."

Her eyes welled with tears. It’s no wonder—how could a ten-year-old be expected to understand marriage?

I smiled wryly and said to Panamera,

"Well, this isn’t something to decide today. Besides, I’m not even ready to think about marriage yet."