"I appreciate greatly for the trust, Your Majesty, but I'm afraid I can't accept your request"

I said. As soon as I uttered those words, I could hear murmurs among the nobles around us. Even whispering, their voices reached my ears clearly.

"I can't believe he turned down His Majesty's request"

"It's a shame; he has no idea how many people would give anything for this position, especially when it's granted personally by Your Majesty"

"That's the difference between commoners and nobles"

"Who knows, maybe he's trying to raise his own value? After all, it's almost a miracle for a commoner to even get an audience with Your Majesty"

Of course, there were some dissenting voices regarding my decision, and there were also those who seemed to suspect there was another reason behind my words. However, to be frank, there wasn't a hidden motive. If I had to give a reason, it would be the fact that I don't feel comfortable serving someone. As these thoughts ran through my mind, the king's voice echoed once more, bringing my attention back.

"Hmm... could you at least share the reason behind your refusal? I don't expect you to understand how much this position means and is desired, but I'd like to know why you didn't react positively to the idea. Perhaps the prospect of serving Sylvia doesn't appeal to you?"

Upon hearing these words, I noticed two pairs of eyes turned in my direction. When I turned, I met Sylvia's eyes on me. Although her expression wasn't explicit, I could sense a shadow of sadness in her gaze after hearing the king's words. When she noticed I was watching her, Sylvia slightly lowered her head, as if she were embarrassed. Meanwhile, the king continued with his speech.

"If that is indeed the reason, what do you think about serving me or one of my other children? I can assure you that both you and your companions will be treated with respect, should you decide to accept"

When the king uttered those words, Sylvia seemed to grow even more downcast. For some reason, she was misunderstanding something on her own. It's true that I'm not comfortable with the idea of serving someone, but when it comes to Sylvia, I would be willing to make an exception. It's amazing how much I've enjoyed the days I've spent by her side. Keeping these thoughts in mind, I turned to the king and spoke.

"With your permission, Your Majesty"

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After saying those words, the king nodded, indicating his satisfaction with my gesture, and then spoke.

"Go ahead"

Rena had previously instructed me that when wishing to speak, I should request the king's permission. Luckily, that guidance was still fresh in my memory. As she had explained, speaking without the king's permission in his presence could be interpreted as impolite or even arrogant.

"I am truly thankful to know that you hold me in such high regard. However, the reason I cannot accept the request is not related to Sylvia. In reality, if I had to choose someone to serve, I would have no doubts in choosing Sylvia"

As I spoke these words, I turned briefly toward Sylvia, and once again, I found her gaze fixed on me. This time, I noticed surprise on her face, and for some reason, her cheeks were slightly flushed. Setting aside Sylvia's peculiar reaction for a moment, I returned my attention to the king and continued.

"The reason I cannot accept your proposal is different..."

After these words, a brief silence took hold. What reason should I present? To be honest, I didn't even know if I could reveal my true objective to them. As uncertainty surrounded me, the voice of Aurora-sama resonated in my mind once again.

"Don't worry, Makoto. You can inform them that you and your companions are on a mission sent by the gods. Furthermore, you can mention that this mission was entrusted by Artena"

Upon hearing these words, a momentary surprise washed over me. However, this surprise wasn't caused by the revelation that I could share the reason for my presence here, but rather by the last part of Aurora-sama's words.

(Wait, are you serious? If I recall correctly, the last time I heard about her, she tried to kill me)

After I uttered these words, Aurora-sama, for some reason, remained silent for a while before finally resuming speech.

"Well... I can't deny that. However, I recently spoke with Artena, and she told me she would make this exception only this once"

In some way, upon hearing these words, I had the sense that a deep secret, not meant to be shared so casually, was being unveiled. After a brief sigh that involuntarily escaped my lips, I thought in response.

(I refuse to mention that goddess's name when it's you I serve, Aurora-sama)

Upon uttering these words, Aurora-sama fell silent again, but this time, I felt like the pause stretched out for a longer period than usual. As this happened, I glanced slightly at the king and noticed a surprised expression on him, directed toward me.

I looked briefly around and realized that the others present were also fixing their gazes on me in the same way. While feeling confused about whatever was happening, Aurora-sama's voice finally echoed in my mind.

"I'm glad you think that way, Makoto. However, it would be problematic if you declared yourself my follower. But, don't worry too much. Look up"

Despite the confusion caused by Aurora-sama's enigmatic words, I decided to follow her guidance. With that in mind, I lifted my eyes and was surprised to come face to face with a tiny sun spinning above my head. And when I say "miniature sun" I'm not exaggerating; I could feel the warmth radiating from that thing.

As I stared at the symbol, stunned, surprised voices erupted throughout the room. Before I could process it, everyone around me was kneeling, including the king, the queen, and even Sylvia. As this unfolded, only one thought echoed in my mind.

(What the hell is going on here?)