Different from usual, Marquis Marius seemed rather prickly, but Siegfried responded without so much as raising an eyebrow.

“Did you come looking for me with the suspicion that I influenced His Highness Byron into launching an attack on the Capital?”

 Siegfried was one step in front of Marquis Marius.

“……”

With the words taken right out of Marquis Marius’ mouth, he simply kept his mouth shut. 

“I know what you're suspicious about. And as a Marquis that tends to the state’s affairs, I believe that your suspicions are entirely valid.”

“Thank you for your understanding.”

“But to lay those doubts to rest, hasn't His Highness Byron committed to marrying Roxanne, the eldest daughter of His Excellency Bahasten – our nation’s Fuhrer? Do you still not trust us?”

“Well, that’s…”

With the Hildes Republic consenting to this diplomatic marriage, doubting them was impossible – never mind denying them. The moment the prince had advocated for Republicanism, it was no different than cutting off their diplomatic ties with all the kingdoms. Whether they liked it or not, an ally like the Hildes Republic was urgently needed. If anything, they should be grateful to the Republic for proposing this royal marriage. Things had already moved past the point of denying their aid.

“Mm… my apologies. This was my lapse in judgment.”

Though he had determinedly sought Siegfried out to closely question him, Marquis Marius was the one apologizing after thinking over the situation.

Siegfried laughed.

“As I said before, Marquis, I understand your perspective. There really is no need to apologize. I only ask...