The remainder of the court session was uneventful. Officials presented their reports and pet.i.tions while offering advice on various problems the country faced. Olrich listened to them dutifully, taking the appropriate measures to resolve all the issues brought to him.

　　Konrad was forced to admit that in the role of emperor, Olrich didn't laze around. As the session approached its end, a middle-aged official stepped forward.

　　"Your majesty, we've received news that the Prosperous Wind Empire's third prince set out yesterday. He brings with him legions of betrothal gifts and is on his way to take his bride."

　　Olrich's good mood died in a heartbeat. The man who announced the news could feel the pressure of Olrich's gaze weighing down on him. He pitied himself for being the one having to say those words. However, if he didn't do his job, his head would, for sure, roll onto the floor.

　　Olrich's pressure vanished as quickly as it descended, and his eyes cleared up.

　　"The Prosperous Wind Third Prince is a man of honor and virtue. Entrusting my daughter to him. My heart is at ease. You may begin the preparations to receive him with the honors due to his rank."

　　"Yes, your majesty!"

　　The official heaved a sigh of relief and excused himself.

　　"If there is nothing else, the court is dismissed."

　　From highest ranked to lowest, the court officials bowed and excused themselves, leaving only Konrad and Olrich.

　　Olrich rose from his throne, leading Konrad back to his imperial study.

　　"You've broken through to the Grand Priest Rank?"

　　"Yes, adoptive father!"

　　"Good, my efforts on you were not wasted. When you comprehend the first layer of the Infernal Soul Devouring Art, we can truly begin your training. Although spiritual talent is much rarer than its martial counterpart, training a mighty priest is much easier than training a knight.

　　As long as talent and resources are sufficient, rapid progress is natural."

　　Olrich dropped into his seat, letting a deep sigh bypa.s.s his lips.

　　"Adoptive father, are you concerned about the impending arrival of the Prosperous Wind Third Prince?"

　　 "How not to be? Although the Prosperous Wind Third Prince is a man of honor and virtue, and their imperial family peaceful, the distance between the two countries is humongous. Should she marry him, in this life, I might never see her again.

　　I only have this one daughter. Even if she must get married, it should be at home!"

　　Olrich roared and slammed his clenched fist on the mahogany table facing him. Konrad couldn't tell what part of his words was acting, and what part was reality. Was he not aware of Olrich's true intentions, he would have really fallen by this show of the "concerned father."