At that time, the two adults who entered the study were discussing future matters.

"Brother-in-law, is it really true?... At first, when I received the letter, I couldn't believe it. Althea is only five years old, and even last year, there was a commotion when his little highness activated magic at the age of six. To think that she activated it even earlier than our little prince did..."

"Oh, it's true... If possible, I wouldn't believe it either. Having magical ability is one thing, but... too much power can be dangerous. Activating magic at such age is unheard of. We need to report it to the royal family, but we want to proceed with utmost secrecy."

"...Secrecy, you say?"

"Secrecy, indeed... She's only five. If, for instance, this information were to leak, there's a high risk that my daughter would be attacked or some bad elements would exploit her. But..."

Thomas covered his face with both hands.

"...Althea is quite tomboyish, despite her appearance."

"That's true. Even if you take your eyes off her for a moment... Just this time, it was because of that momentary distraction that she activated magic, and she still doesn't fully grasp the seriousness of it."

"Well, isn't that understandable? She's still a 'five-year-old girl.'"

"I understand. But can we afford to say that in the current situation? That's why I want to eliminate as many uncertainties as possible."

"So, that's why, in secret, right?"

"Yes, in secret. If, by any chance, this information leaks, there's a high risk of danger. And..."

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Thomas lowered his face into his hands.

"...It might come with a cost?"

"Yes... I protect the western borders of this country and believe I contribute to the king in doing so, but... somehow, it doesn't feel enough. Being an archduke is merely a title, one generation ago Monclairs was a count family; my domains own a huge plot of lands and have a sizable number of soldiers in my reign, but my political influence in the court and economy is less than a marquiss's. After all, my neighbors want a part of the huge pie," Thomas said while pouring wine into his cup.

"Being a count was too low a title considering the contributions, talents, and geniuses of your ancestors. Anyway, what about taking command of the entire Royal Guard, perhaps?"

"I wouldn't put it that bluntly, but the king wants me to remain the status quo."

"I understand. In that case, I'll speak to the king to arrange some time for you. It might not be an immediate audience, given the secrecy involved."

"I understand... Sorry, Rohmund."

"No need to apologize. While I may have been bestowed the nickname 'Aether' by the queen, hold the noble title of Count, and go by the name Rohmund Monte Del Salvador, for me, you're still the senior I admire... in the past and now. If I can be of help, I'm happy."

With that, Rohmund, also known as 'Aether', sipped his tea and glanced outside. Just then, he noticed Mythril and Lilac taking Althea for a walk in the garden.

"...So, Althea has truly awakened to magic. Even though she's still such an innocent child."

Thomas followed Rohmund's gaze, smiled faintly, and observed the three children.

"It's a relief that Mythril and Lilac are fond of Althea. They really seem like siblings."

"Brother-in-law, if Regalus were to hear that, he might get angry. At least say there are four siblings..."

"Haha... that's true. When it comes to Althea, they're almost overly protective, don't you think?"

"I won't deny that. Well... if you say that, our twin daughters at home are probably just as overly protected..."

As they watched the cheerful children conversing, the two fathers, burdened with worries about potential future events, sighed. They contemplated how to ensure the safety and well-being of their children, pondering the possible dangers that lay ahead.