Episode 17: Give Me Your Daughter (2nd Attempt)
The Fervache Imperial Capital Mansion.
The cold air lingered around the dining table, where only individual plates were set.
The food on the plates was prepared to perfection as always, but Yohan couldn’t bring himself to take a bite.
“……”
Yohan quietly lowered his head, staring only at the food.
Even though some time had passed since the meal was served, Duke Fervache remained silent.
There was no exchange of words.
Only the faint clinking of utensils against plates broke the heavy silence.
Francia was not present at the meal. The Duke had arranged this meeting, stating he needed to speak with Yohan alone.
“Hm.”
Breaking the icy atmosphere, the Duke tilted his head slightly after tasting his food.
Yohan hoped he would speak, but the Duke merely resumed eating.
‘What is he doing?’
Was he hoping Yohan would fail to keep his promise? Such doubts began creeping into Yohan’s mind.
“You’ve officially become a Special-Class Mage, I hear.”
At last, the Duke spoke. Yohan maintained his composure and nodded.
“Yes. I reached the high-level within the promised timeframe.”
“Not only that, but you single-handedly defeated a special-grade beast and saved the knights and soldiers of the Second Division of Imperial Bureau.”
“Yes.”
The Duke slowly closed his eyes, then opened them again with a small nod.
“…Indeed. As promised, you have fulfilled your end of the agreement. Your achievements on your first reconnaissance mission were remarkable.”
Clink.
The Duke set down his utensils and stared at Yohan with cold eyes. The same crimson eyes Francia had glimmered with an intense light.
“I will permit your relationship with Francia.”
“…!”
Just as Yohan was about to smile at the unexpectedly smooth approval, the Duke continued.
“But there is one condition.”
“Of course.”
“You must swear to protect Francia no matter what happens.”
“Isn’t that a given?”
“Even if it’s a given, a vow is something different. Go ahead—swear it.”
Yohan had always intended to protect Francia to the end. Swearing it aloud was hardly an issue.
“I swear by the source of mana that I will protect my beloved Francia Fervache, no matter what happens.”
“Good.”
The Duke smiled with satisfaction, his expression softening into a benevolent grin.
“Once your term in the Bureau is over, come to the Fervache estate in the North with Francia. At that time, your surname will be changed to Yohan Fervache.”
Changing his surname meant becoming the Duke’s son-in-law, a sign of approval for marriage.
“Thank you.”
“Even so, I suggest you remain on guard.”
The Duke exhaled, his expression tinged with a trace of concern.
“There will be many obstacles in your relationship with Francia. You know why, don’t you?”
“It’s because I’m merely the third son of the Viscounty of Harsen, while Francia is the Lady of Fervache, one of the Four Great Houses.”
“Exactly.”
The Duke nodded once.
“You may face opponents beyond your capacity to handle. For instance, the Crown Prince.”
“You’re aware of his interest in Francia?”
“What do you take Fervache for? Naturally, I have spies well-versed in social circles.”
That the Duke knew came as a complete surprise to Yohan. He hadn’t imagined it.
“Francia is currently the talk of high society. Many desire my daughter—not only for the power and prestige of the Fervache name but also out of pure longing for her.”
The Duke’s words were true. With her unparalleled beauty, Francia was deserving of being called the jewel of high society.
Moreover, her reputation in the social world was stellar. She extended kindness without bias, her angelic image earning admiration from all.
That is, except for her sharp attitude toward the Crown Prince and Cassis Lenokhonen.
“And she’s a rare healer mage. As her father, I hesitate to say it, but Francia’s value rises by the day. The Council of Elders has even started murmuring about replacing the Crown Princess.”
The Duke’s gaze bore into Yohan, now calm but low and heavy.
“Even so, can you overcome them?”
“I will grow stronger.”
“Even if you grow, it won’t be easy.”
“I aim to become a Transcendent Mage.”
A Transcendent Mage—someone who surpassed the limits of humanity, becoming an unparalleled being. It was Yohan’s second goal.
“Reaching the transcendent level is no simple feat. I, too, have touched upon that realm but have barely entered it. I see further growth as impossible.”
The transcendent level was precisely that—a domain reached by only a handful in the vast Empire.
It was akin to a Grand Swordmaster in swordsmanship, a being who transcended humanity, an invincible existence.
The Duke continued.
“Especially since you’ve only just reached the high level. Your progress in magic has always been slower than others. Even so, can you truly achieve it?”
Without hesitation, Yohan nodded firmly.
‘It’s not a matter of whether I can do it. I must do it. It’s the only way I can be with Francia.’
If Yohan reached the level of a Transcendent Mage, everything would fall into place.
Anyone who attained transcendence would be granted a noble title and become a great asset to the Empire.
“No matter how long it takes, I will reach it.”
“…Your answer is to my liking. You sly fox.”
Despite his words, the Duke wore a satisfied smile, clearly pleased with Yohan’s response.
“When we first met, you had the same attitude. Always brimming with confidence. That’s why I held you in high regard.”
The truth was, Yohan’s confidence came from his innate talents.
Not only had he taught himself runes, but he also possessed the rare ability to wield magic.
Whether it was a gift of his reincarnation or something else, that talent always fueled his confidence.
“I entrust my daughter to you, Yohan Harsen. Or rather, Yohan Fervache.”
“You have my word.”
“…Sly fox. Even now, your reliability irritates me.”
What was he supposed to say to that? Yohan’s brow twitched ever so slightly.
“For now, let’s finish our meal. From the upcoming social gatherings to future plans, we have much to discuss today.”
***
After Dinner at the Fervache Mansion
“Take this as well.”
“This too?”
“And this.”
“Another one?”
Yohan found himself on the receiving end of a barrage of rare gifts from the Duke.
“You are to become the son-in-law of House Fervache. You can’t afford to remain this feeble.”
Most of the items the Duke handed him were elixirs.
One elixir enhanced mana affinity and sharpened senses.
Another expanded his mana pathways and improved his ability to channel mana.
Yet another fortified his mana circuits, ensuring his body could handle extreme mana usage without significant side effects.
And so on.
Each elixir had been tailored to address Yohan’s specific needs in magic.
“Your raw mana reserves, control, and affinity are exceptional, but the range of spells you’ve mastered is still lacking.”
Handing Yohan a small vial, the Duke continued.
“You never know what might happen or when. For now, boosting your combat ability is the best course of action.”
“Yes, sir…”
With a somewhat dazed expression, Yohan took the elixir from the Duke and drank it.
Heat spread through his body, and a tingling sensation surged within him. His senses seemed to heighten to their limits.
“It will take time for the elixirs to fully integrate, but with your mana affinity, you should adapt quickly. Drink one vial at a time as you adjust.”
“Yes… Thank you…?”
The Duke smiled, surveying the guest room—now Yohan’s room in the Fervache Imperial Mansion.
The room was now brimming with rare and invaluable elixirs, the likes of which were nearly impossible to acquire.
“Take good care of Francia, Yohan.”
“Of course. You can count on me.”
Though still overwhelmed by the sudden shower of gifts, Yohan clasped the Duke’s outstretched hand with a determined gleam in his eyes.
This would help him shore up the fundamentals he had yet to fully master.
“If the Crown Prince is attending the social gathering, something is bound to happen. Be prepared.”
The Duke patted Yohan on the shoulder, his expression hardening as he reiterated his point.
“Take good care of my daughter.”
***
At the Lenokhonen Mansion in the Imperial Capital
A carriage came to a stop in front of the mansion gates.
“Welcome, Lady Ratalen.”
It was Violet Ratalen. She smiled faintly and gave a small nod to the Lenokhonen mansion’s butler.
“Where is the Young Duke of Lenokhonen?”
“He is in his study, my lady.”
“I trust I can see him?”
“Of course. I shall announce—”
“No need. I’ll take care of it myself.”
Click. Click.
Violet strode confidently into the mansion, her footsteps echoing as she moved inside.
Her familiarity with the grand staircase splitting into three directions was evident in her brisk and unhesitating ascent.
Knock. Knock. Knock.
Without waiting for a response, Violet opened the door to the study, a sly smile on her face.
“You seem quite busy today, Lord Lenokhonen.”
“It’s Young Duke. I thought I’d corrected you on that.”
“Oh, what’s the point of formalities between us?”
Violet chuckled softly and flopped onto the study’s sofa with a playful grin.
Cassis Lenokhonen narrowed his eyes and asked,
“So, what brings you here today? If it’s about your engagement proposal—”
“Oh, forget the engagement. I’ve already changed my mind. I’m not interested in you anymore.”
“…What’s that supposed to mean?”
Violet tilted her head with a smile, her red hair cascading down.
“Why? Are you disappointed that I’ve given up now?”
“Not at all. I’m just worried you might be up to something.”
“Ha, well, you’re right. I am scheming.”
Her eyes glinted slyly.
“But it won’t be to your disadvantage.”
“What kind of scheme is this?”
“Francia Fervache.”
Cassis froze. The hand holding his pen halted at the sound of her name.
“I don’t know why you’re bringing her up.”
“Don’t play dumb. You’re head over heels for Lady Fervache.”
“……”
“Trust me, this will work in your favor. Just hear me out.”
Violet crossed her legs and rested her chin in her hand, flashing a pleasant smile.
“The upcoming social party. Attend it as my partner.”
“…So your scheme is just to deceive me?”
“Listen until I’m done.”
When Cassis’ expression hardened, Violet shrugged and continued.
“During the party, we’ll secretly switch partners. I’ll go after Yohan Harsen, and you can focus on Lady Fervache.”
“…Yohan Harsen? You’re interested in him?”
“Yes. Very much so, to the point that I want to claim him for myself.”
A meaningful smile played on Violet’s lips.
“You focus on Lady Fervache. I’ll handle the rest.”
Cassis set down his pen and stood, moving to sit across from Violet on the sofa, ready to listen.
“Tell me your plan in detail.”
“Finally willing to work together, are you?”
Violet chuckled and began to explain.
“Since the party will be bustling with important figures, the two of them will inevitably separate at some point. Lady Fervache is famous, after all.”
“And then?”
“That’s when I’ll approach Yohan. I’ve got a trump card that will force him to engage with me.”
“Hm.”
Cassis stroked his chin and furrowed his brow, deep in thought. Violet continued.
“With them apart, you’ll have your chance to get close to Lady Fervache. I’ll focus entirely on Yohan.”
“Not a bad plan.”
A faint smile crossed Cassis’ face as he nodded.
“Lady Ratalen, this might be the first time we’re actually in agreement.”
“Exactly. Now get to planning. We need to keep those two apart.”
With that, Violet rose from her seat.
“That’s all I came to say. You’ll be my partner, right?”
“It would be foolish not to, given our aligned interests.”
“Perfect. I’ll leave it to you then.”
Violet tilted her head slightly with a sly smile. Cassis chuckled.
“I’ll be going now. Make sure you’re well-prepared.”
The bold entrance she made was matched by her equally bold exit. She showed no hesitation, no lingering regret. Watching her leave, Cassis thought to himself,
‘It seems she truly has moved on.’
Thinking back to how persistently she had pursued him—sending engagement letters, showering him with unwanted gifts—was almost enough to give him a headache.
‘Yohan Harsen. For the first time, I owe you my thanks.’
A small laugh escaped him as he rang the bell. A butler promptly entered.
“You called, sir?”
“Contact the Hyenas.”
“Understood.”
Though Violet had crafted a clever plan, Cassis had no intention of leaving Yohan unscathed.
To penetrate the impenetrable wall surrounding Francia, he first needed to isolate her.
He regretted that he couldn’t act personally, but the Hyenas would suffice to deal with Yohan Harsen.
‘It doesn’t matter if he’s a special-class mage.’
While Yohan’s skill surpassed most mages of his rank, he was still a mage with clear combat limitations. Without proper frontline support, he would become easy prey for the Hyenas.
‘This should be entertaining.’
Cassis rose from the sofa and gazed out the window of his study. The moon hung high in the night sky, its light unusually beautiful.
‘Lady Fervache. I look forward to the day we are together.’
It had been love at first sight—a feeling he had never experienced before. Though he wasn’t one to focus on appearances, Lady Fervache possessed an irresistible allure.
But it wasn’t just her beauty. The way she smiled at a scenic view, the way she grimaced from standing too long, the way she spaced out during strategy meetings—all of it captivated him.
And, above all, the contemptuous looks she reserved just for him pierced him to the core.
‘If I take her by force, she’ll probably keep looking at me like that.’
Cassis smiled once more.
He thought of Lady Fervache, who would one day be in his arms.
***
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This is getting me addicted, villains that are vile and hate-able and straight forward mcs. I need more!!! Mawr!!!
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