The sixth prince, who had been executed in the kingdom after being betrayed by the trusted saint, was reincarnated and, in order to seek revenge, became engaged once again to the neighboring kingdom’s “Guillotine Princess.” As a result, he was adored and lived happily.

“Your Highness Gustav, have you heard? The Empire sent the ‘Tears of the Goddess’ as an apology.”

“Oh, really?”

Marie excitedly talked about the ‘Tears of the Goddess,’ which was a large emerald gem known in the Strasclide Empire. It was said to be mined in the holy land of “Granton,” which was associated with the Goddess Arianrod.

The Empire considered the ‘Tears of the Goddess’ a national treasure, so it was quite a significant gesture to send it as an apology. It showed how much importance they placed on the ceasefire agreement with the kingdom.

Well, it was only natural when you considered the events that would unfold in two years.

“However…”

“However?”

“It seems Princess Bridget is furious about this. She has reprimanded Knight Captain Glenn Corbett.”

“I see…”

Even if I were to say something about it now, Glenn had already been pardoned in this matter, so it wouldn’t make a difference. But that woman couldn’t help but speak out.

If I remembered correctly, in my first life, she was the owner of the ‘Tears of the Goddess.’

“In any case, it’s not something I’m aware of. More importantly, I should be heading out soon.”

“Very well, take care.”

With Marie seeing me off, I made my way to the daily training grounds of the knights.

It had been three months since my sparring session with Glenn, and thanks to General Cyrus’s special training, my swordsmanship had improved remarkably… but.

“What are you doing? You won’t defeat any enemies with that!”

“Yes!”

General Cyrus had finally taken it upon himself to personally instruct me, and the meaningless exchanges we had initially were a thing of the past. It seemed he had become more serious about my training.

There were other changes as well.

“Nevertheless, Your Highness Gustav, you endure General Cyrus’s rigorous training quite well…”

“Ah, hahaha…”

Some of the knights had become more friendly and started to talk to me. I had heard indirectly that they initially thought I wouldn’t be able to keep up with General Cyrus’s special training and would give up quickly. In essence, they had reevaluated me.

However, these were only a few of General Cyrus’s subordinates. Most of the other knights still regarded me with disdain. Nevertheless, I was pleased because I had proven that I could change even a little about that despicable first life.

“Your Highness Gustav.”

“Princess Abigail.”

Around the time training had finally concluded for the day and night had fallen, Princess Abigail, as usual, came to the training grounds to greet me. Even though she should be busy with official duties, she always made time to come at this hour, and I was undoubtedly delighted.

“Shall we go?”

“Yes…”

And then, as we left, Glenn looked at us as usual. Claire, standing behind him, wore an annoyed expression, thinking she was not being watched.

—

“The Baptism Festival, huh…”

“Yes. Every year on this day, the people of the Empire receive the blessing of the Goddess Arianrod as they undergo the baptism.”

Late at night, sitting side by side on Princess Abigail’s bed, I received an explanation. Even in my first life, this event was held every year, and I had reluctantly participated.

However, the main character of the Baptism Festival was always Bridget. Just as Valrois had a Saint, the Empire also positioned Bridget as the ‘Goddess’s Representative,’ contributing to the mystique of the imperial family and uplifting the citizens.

…Despite giving her the role of ‘Guillotine Princess.’

“If you dislike it, you don’t have to attend…”

“No, I would like to participate. As your fiancé.”

I had messed up. My irritation with her unreasonable treatment had made me unintentionally burden her. Furthermore, participating in this event was an excellent opportunity for me. I couldn’t afford to miss it.

“I’m glad…”

“Of course. It’s my first time attending this event as your fiancé, and I’m looking forward to introducing you to the people.”

In her room, as we sat side by side on her bed, I held her hand gently. Even though she unfairly treated me, I wouldn’t do anything to embarrass her in front of the people, not anymore.

“By the way, Emperor His Highness will naturally be attending, but will he stay until the end of the ceremony?”

“Hmm? Yes, every year, on this day, he refrains from other official duties…”

With a puzzled expression, Princess Abigail answered, indicating that it was indeed the case.

Well, that meant I would have an opportunity to interact with him.

“Thank you. I’m looking forward to being introduced as your fiancé and to spend time together at the event.”

“Oh… I’m looking forward to it too.”

Princess Abigail, blushing and looking somewhat shy, lowered her gaze.

The smile on her face, though, was truly heartwarming.