Huh? What? Forfeit?
Roland's leg froze mid-tap, the rhythmic sound cut off entirely. His expression twisted into a mix of shock and confusion, eyes widening as his father's words echoed in his mind.
Snapping back to reality, Roland parted his lips to retort, but Marquis Francis cut him off before he could utter a word.
"It has been three years since the selection started, yet you have not made any significant contribution to the empire."
Marquis Francis's tone was firm, but the moment the words left his mouth, his expression faltered. He cleared his throat, his composure momentarily shaken.
"Don't get me wrong, Roland. I'm not blaming you or anything..." His gaze softened, though his eyes remained serious. "It's just... I believe it would be better if you forfeited and chose one of the other candidates to support. Lady Albertine would be a good choice."
After hearing the Marquis's reasoning, Roland couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness.
So, this is how he sees the past Roland, huh... It's true that, because of his poor health, the past Roland never truly made a name for himself—except as the sickly young Marquis.
Roland's grip on the edge of the table tightened slightly, but he kept his expression neutral.
But still, neither the past Roland nor I will accept this as a reason to give up the throne!
Steeling himself, Roland cleared his throat. Then, he launched his assault, ready to refute his father's words.
"Father, I don't agree with your sentiment. I believe it's still too early to say I don't have a chance.
"There are still many possibilities for me. Even if I am frail, that doesn't mean I'm a cripple."
"For the past three years, I've been studying non-stop, learning how to properly manage our territory." Roland's voice grew firmer, his determination shining through.
"At most, I'll just have to drink more water!"
Roland met Marquis Francis's gaze head-on, his eyes blazing with determination. His voice, held steady—unwavering.
The room fell into a heavy silence. Neither the nobles at the dining table nor the servants standing by dared to make a sound.
"Sigh... I expected you would say that." Marquis Francis finally broke the stillness, his once firm eyes now softened, a gentle smile tugging at his lips.
"See, honey? Our Roland may have a weak body, but his determination is second to none!" Marchioness Dame proudly proclaimed to her husband, her eyes gleaming with pride.
"Yeah! Big brother won't give up that easily!"
Joining in was Eleanor, the young adolescent girl sitting beside Roland, her eyes sparkling with admiration as she looked up at him.
Hearing their words, Roland couldn't help but smile, his expression softening as a quiet chuckle escaped his lips.
He really does have a loving family, huh... Or rather, I have a loving family. The thought left him slightly amused, warmth blooming in his chest.
I can see why the past Roland was so fixated on becoming emperor for his family… Don't worry, past Roland. I will fulfill your wish
After the heartfelt exchange, the Eckhart family continued their breakfast, the warm atmosphere lingering around the table. Roland, especially, enjoyed the meal.
In his original world, Roland's family was considered middle class, and he rarely experienced food of this quality. It made him treasure every bite, savoring the rich flavors and carving the taste into his memory.
This really is delicious! To think that from now on, I'll get to eat food like this every day. I guess there are some benefits to transmigrating. Roland laughed inwardly, savoring every bite as if trying to etch the flavors into his memory.
By the end of breakfast, Roland felt satisfyingly full, yet a part of him still craved more of the lamb chops. However, mindful of his image, he resisted the urge for seconds and excused himself.
He slowly returned to his room to prepare for the trip to the imperial palace.
Back in his bedroom, Roland had his valet assist him in dressing for the occasion. He donned a pristine white suit paired with a deep red vest, its fabric rich and finely woven. Over it, he wore a long, straight black coat that swept down to his knees, its edges neatly pressed.
Embroidered on the right breast of his red vest was the crest of the Eckhart family—a proud emblem stitched in silver thread. Beside it rested a ruby brooch, its crimson surface gleaming faintly in the morning light. It was a cherished gift he had received on his fifteenth birthday.
It's my first time wearing such an outfit... It isn't as tight as I thought it would be. Roland mused as he made his way downstairs, his fingers brushing against the fine fabric of his coat. The suit felt surprisingly comfortable, its tailored fit allowing for ease of movement.
Now standing at the entrance of the mansion, Roland was handed a gold-inlaid cane and a black half-top hat—finishing touches that added to his noble appearance.
Marquis Francis stood before him, a warm, approving smile on his face. "Be careful, Roland."
"Don't worry, I will. Besides, Enzo will be accompanying me." Roland replied.
Marchioness Dame and the adolescent Eleanor waved goodbye from the mansion's entrance, their smiles warm and encouraging as Roland made his way through the entrance garden. Blossoming flowers lined the neatly trimmed hedges, their subtle fragrance carried by the gentle morning breeze.
Finally, Roland reached the carriage adorned with the Eckhart family's crest.
Well, here goes nothing. Steeling himself, Roland stepped into the carriage, his grip tightening around the gold-inlaid cane. Whatever awaited him at the palace, he would face it head-on.
...
Inside the spacious carriage, Roland found his attendant, Enzo, already seated. Tall and of average build, Enzo carried a scholarly air about him, further accentuated by the crystal-clear monocle perched over his right eye. His sharp gaze and composed demeanor gave him an air of meticulousness.
Dressed in a well-fitted white suit paired with a high-quality brown vest, Enzo's appearance was neat and professional, his attire hinting at both practicality and refinement.
Settling into the seat across from him, Roland studied the scholarly attendant, feeling a sense of reassurance at his presence.
Enzo had been Roland's personal attendant since childhood. In fact, he was a distant cousin! Whether it was assisting Roland with his studies or nursing him through bouts of illness, Enzo was always by his side.
Only two years older than Roland, Enzo was regarded more as a friend than a servant. His steady presence and unwavering support had been a constant comfort.
The past Roland held Enzo in high regard firmly believing that Enzo's diligence was the only reason he hadn't already been dismissed from the selection.
I really am looking forward to working with him. Roland thought, a faint smile crossing his lips.
Lord Eckhart asked you to give up the selection, didn't he?" Enzo spoke with a wide, knowing smile, his legs crossed casually as he leaned back in his seat.
Roland was instantly taken aback. How did he know? Enzo had only just returned to the Eckhart household after acting as Roland's proxy on a matter. There hadn't been enough time for him to hear the news from the servants.
"How did you know?" Roland asked, showing a surprised expression.
Maintaining his composed posture, the scholarly Enzo adjusted his monocle before replying, "The moment I heard about today's summons, I already assumed Lord Eckhart would try to convince you to drop out."
"He's the kind of father who'd do something like this to protect you. His intentions are good, but…" Enzo's smile widened, amusement glinting in his eyes. "Judging by your current expression, I can safely say you stubbornly refused."
He really is sharp. To think he could piece this all together from so little information. Roland praised Enzo inwardly.
"Crack!"
At that moment, the carriage lurched forward, and the steady, rhythmic clacking of the horses' hooves echoed beneath them. The gentle sway of the carriage accompanied the sound, a subtle reminder that their journey to the royal palace had begun.
Breaking the brief silence, Roland asked, "Enzo, what's the situation at the border?"
The matter that had kept Enzo away until recently was a visit to the Eckhart family's knights stationed along the county's border. Reports of bandits attacking villages had grown increasingly troubling.
"I was able to formulate a plan and successfully trap most of the members of the bandit group," Enzo replied, his tone calm and confident. "The knights are currently rounding up the remnants. I expect the matter to be fully resolved within a few days."
"I see, efficient as always." Roland leaned back in his seat.
They both fell into a comfortable silence, the steady rhythm of the horses' hooves filling the carriage.