Chapter 185: Politics Disguised As Parties (1)
“No,” Keter said first.
Eslow crossed his legs and replied, “I haven’t said anything yet.”
“I figured you were about to ask me to marry Henya.”
“And why not?”
Eslow’s question wasn’t just a question; it was a quiet demand for an explanation as to why Keter was refusing. His tone made it clear that if he couldn’t give a proper reason, there would be consequences. But Keter didn’t flinch, as it wasn’t the first time he had been in a situation like this.
If you want to live as someone exceptional, this kind of threat is part of the job.
Back in Liqueur, Keter had faced so many nobles trying to marry off their daughters to him that he could count them on both hands. If he included the women who had personally tried to pressure him into marriage, he would run out of toes too. They were all stronger than Keter at the time, both physically and politically. And every time, his answer was the same.
“No.”
His reason had always been the same, too, and that hadn’t changed, even if his opponent now was one of the Four Lords.
“Because I swore on my soul that I wouldn’t live a life bound by coercion.”
“...A foolish vow. The demands of the strong are inevitable. As someone strong yourself, surely you’ve forced your will on others before. Are you going to live enjoying the privileges of power without accepting its responsibilities?”
“I already have accepted the responsibilities of both imposing my will and of rejecting it.”