The Vastness of Magical Destiny

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"Princess Katya, I think we can dispense with the riddles. Your visit likely isn’t just to see an acquaintance like me," Komer mused, with a mix of surprise and pleasure that it was Princess Katya who had come instead of His Highness Prince Hoffman or Princess Renta. "I’m glad, however, and I do hope that the kingdom sends more people to inspect our Caucasus, to give us the recognition we deserve."

After deliberating over his words for a moment, Komer felt it was time to discuss serious matters.

According to the intelligence he’d received, not only had the relationship between the Central Kingdom and the major lords continued to deteriorate due to the issues concerning defense funds against the Beastmen invasion, but it seemed the struggle among the kingdom’s successors had also intensified. Considering Katya’s triumph over Hoffman and Renta for this visit to the Caucasus, Komer couldn’t help but speculate her motive. Was she seeking assistance, or was she trying to showcase her talents to the king to earn his praise?

The smile that had charmed countless men once again graced Katya’s peerless face. Seeing Komer finally address the matter directly was a relief; she had outlasted him in patience, gaining a bit of the upper hand. Now, she could take a more proactive role.

She had subconsciously listed the man before her as her most formidable opponent. Of course, "opponent" was just a provisional term for now—maybe he was a partner, maybe an ally, or possibly an enemy. It all depended on his performance.

"Your baron, I admire your straightforwardness. Indeed, my visit isn’t just to see you, although I truly did wish to see you again. However, personal feelings must come second to matters of state, and I believe you feel the same."

Katya subtly expressed her feelings, signaling the importance of what they were about to discuss while also conveying her personal affection, aiming to gain his understanding and support.