The time I spent alone in the room was quite serene. Various thoughts crossed my mind, and not all of them were disheartening. To be honest, despite the sadness from the defeat, I also experienced a sense of excitement, as it indicates that there is still much to explore in this world.

The girls spent most of their time trying to cheer me up, but, to be honest, I wasn't that down. In the end, I managed to make them leave by showing that I was truly fine. I'm glad they care so much about me; I can only express my gratitude for having them by my side.

But every time I think about it, my mind goes back to Leona. Unfortunately, it seems that winning her over is not in the plans. I know it may seem a bit strange to express it this way, as it seems like I'm treating her as an object. However, Leona is an incredible person and extremely significant to me. Despite having known each other for a short time, whenever we talk, it feels like I've known her for years.

My agreement with the king stipulated that I could only marry Leona if I defeated him. Since I was unsuccessful, the prospect of being with Leona becomes doubtful. However, it's not like I've given up. The king didn't make it clear that it was my only opportunity, which suggests that I can challenge him again in the future.

As these thoughts crossed my mind, I heard knocks on the door, grabbing my attention. The girls probably wouldn't come at this time, and I wasn't expecting visitors, so I had no idea who it could be.

"Come in"

As soon as I uttered these words, the door opened. Turning my gaze toward the entrance, I was surprised to see Leona and her father standing there. I couldn't think of any reason for their presence at this moment.

"Sorry for the sudden visit, young man. Leona was worried, so I decided to accompany her. Of course, if my presence is inconvenient, I'll leave immediately"

The king said with a friendly smile on his face. It was the first time I saw him smile in this way; normally, his face was always serious or tense. Somehow, it was the first time I saw him in a more relaxed state.

"No, it's okay. I'm just a little surprised, as I didn't expect to see you here... or Leona"

I replied. Although Leona kept her head down, upon hearing my words, her ears twitched, and she discreetly turned her gaze in my direction. There was a slight blush on her cheeks, something I didn't overlook, but I couldn't comprehend the reason.

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"Although it's a bit sudden, I'd like to get straight to the point about why we've come here"

The king said, directing a paternal smile at Leona before turning his gaze back to me, preparing to speak. I was quite confused by his next words.

"Makoto, what do you think about marrying my daughter?"

Upon hearing the question, I fell into complete silence, staring at him. Honestly, my surprise lasted only a few seconds, and soon I began to seriously try to understand the reason for this proposal. However, no matter how much I thought, nothing came to my mind.

"Can I know the reason? I lost in a duel. I thought, besides women liking strong men, I could only have Leona if I beat you"

I expressed my doubts. The king put a smile on his face, as if he were waiting for my question. Unexpectedly, I felt tested.

"Just as Leona said you would react... Anyway, normally it would be like that, and it's true that you lost. However, remember against whom you lost"

The king explained. A click happened in my mind, and his words began to make sense.

"Moreover, it was the first time in a long while that I had to fight seriously, even if it was for a short period. It's not just Leona; my other daughters are also quite interested in you"

While I was surprised to hear this, I also experienced a certain embarrassment. I mean, I understand the message he's trying to convey, but that doesn't change the fact that I lost. Also, it's a bit awkward to try to appear strong after taking a beating.

"So, what do you say?"

While pondering on this, the king spoke again. Until that moment, I didn't know his name. Everyone called him the king, at least the common citizens, and I had never heard his name from anyone else. Anyway, was it really okay, even after the defeat? Reflecting on it, I turned to Leona.

She still watched me in silence behind her father. Her tail swayed slightly, and her ears were discreetly raised. Moreover, a small sparkle could be seen in her eyes. She seemed genuinely anxious for my response. Does she really want to be with me, even after the defeat? I needed to ask her.

"What do you think about Leona? You saw, I lost to your father. Do you still want to be with me nonetheless?"

Listening to my words, Leona lifted her head and looked in my direction. Her cheeks turned extremely red in seconds.

"Although you lost... you were still quite amazing and strong"

Those were the only words from Leona, but they were all I needed to hear. With a small smile on my face, I turned to the king and bowed my head.

"I accept... no, please allow me to have a relationship with your daughter. I will do everything in my power to make her happy"

Listening to my words, the king stamped a broad smile on his face, laughing loudly.

"That's great to hear. As I thought, Makoto, I really like you"

After saying that, he stopped laughing and directed his serious gaze at me, staring at me.

"Please take care of my daughter. I ask this as a father and not as a king. I was useless not to notice my daughter's suffering"

Hearing these words, Leona, who was behind the king, panicked while waving her hands.

"No, you're wrong... father, I really respect you, and I know you were trying. It's my fault for worrying you"

The king turned to Leona after hearing this.

"No, that doesn't change the fact that I failed you. That's why the only thing I can do is this. Even so, Leona, know that I will always love you, just as your mother loved you"