In A Fantasy World I Can Absorbs Abilities-Chapter 224 The Opposite Approach

His voice carried the weight of a father's heartbreak. Duke Capone, seeking to uplift the king, responded in an energetic tone. "Perhaps it's nature's way of telling us to let time carry our burdens. Surely, Crown Prince Randolph would be praying for peace as he watches from above."

Charles V offered a thin smile in return, though the grief in his expression was far from gone. "Ha… I suppose you're right. That foolish boy… I know I should let go, but it's easier said than done."

The king fell silent, his gaze returning to the view outside. After a moment of contemplation, he turned back, his expression softening into a rare, serene smile. "Still, I'm relieved that Astrid has adapted far better than I had expected."

The Crown Princess's resilience was indeed a blessing. Duke Capone offered his heartfelt praise. "It is a great fortune for the kingdom, Your Majesty."

Inviting the duke to sit, Charles V summoned a servant to bring tea and light refreshments. The servant, long experienced in royal service, carefully placed a prepared tea set alongside a plate of seasonal fruits. Charles V raised his teacup and spoke.

"There was something I wanted to ask, and I'm glad you're here." After a pause, the king broached the subject. "There's a rumor spreading from the Orlando Fortress that the Emperor of Pamir has discovered a method to extend his life. How credible is this?"

Duke Capone was taken aback. He hadn't anticipated that even Charles V would be influenced by such rumors, which had been deliberately spread by Michael. Hesitant, he replied cautiously, "Well… It's true that the Emperor of Pamir has been using a method to extend his lifespan, but it's said to be so heinous that ordinary people couldn't even consider attempting it."

The king sighed deeply, shaking his head. "As I thought. Then, is there a chance that those who learn the truth later might retaliate against us?"

Duke Capone's lips curved into a knowing smile. "Unlikely. We've already reached an agreement with the Crown Prince of Pamir. In exchange for aiding his ascension to the throne, we've secured a non-aggression pact."

Charles V's expression brightened with renewed hope. A non-aggression pact—such an achievement was monumental. It was a triumph that even his ancestors had failed to secure, and as king, there could be no greater joy.

"That's fortunate," Charles V remarked. "I imagine even they must suspect this might be a ploy to weaken them."

The duke nodded, sipping his tea. The faint aroma of the tea filled the room, enhancing the serene atmosphere. "Indeed. Yet, wouldn't they still be willing to take even the smallest chance to extend their lives?"

The king, teacup in hand, closed his eyes and let out a sigh. "Ah… I can understand their desperation. It must feel as if the truth of the heavens is just out of reach. Grasping at straws, they seek even the faintest hope."

Duke Capone nodded in agreement. While he and the king had long laid down their swords, he could empathize with the relentless pursuit of longevity and enlightenment by those unwilling to accept the passage of time.

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"That's true," the duke said. "Perhaps among the countless methods the Emperor claims to have gathered, there might indeed be one that extends life or elevates the soul. It's not entirely a losing endeavor for them."

The peaceful atmosphere lingered until Charles V, having finished his tea and fruit, broached a more serious topic. "By the way… the queen has suggested marrying Astrid to someone from her family. What are your thoughts?"

At last, the conversation turned to what Duke Capone had been waiting for. It was a fortuitous opening, sparing him the trouble of initiating the subject. After a moment of feigned contemplation, he shook his head firmly.

"That would not be wise, Your Majesty. While the queen's desire to strengthen ties with her family is understandable, it would bring no benefit to the kingdom."

Charles V, though deeply affectionate toward the queen, was far from naive in political matters. He was, in fact, astutely pragmatic. Hearing the duke's response, he nodded, as if it echoed his own thoughts. "True. I've told the queen as much repeatedly. Then, who do you suggest? When Randolph was alive, both the queen and I had considered the Emperor of Celeste."

Had Randolph survived, a non-aggression pact with the Pamir Empire might have made a marriage alliance with the Celeste Empire plausible. But with Astrid now standing alone, such an arrangement would be tantamount to surrendering the kingdom.

"I assume that idea has since been abandoned?" the duke ventured. Charles V sighed. "Of course. Though the queen remains fixated on the notion… it's absurd. If only there were someone capable, yet without hunger for power…"

After a pause, Duke Capone spoke, "Perhaps it's worth considering the opposite approach."

Charles V's interest was piqued. "The opposite approach? What do you mean?"

"No matter who is chosen, it's unlikely they'll be content merely as the queen's consort. Even if they hide it at first, power inevitably tempts. That's simply its nature."

Duke Capone paused, observing the king's reaction. Charles V nodded in agreement, signaling for him to continue.

Duke Capone proposed his idea, his tone deliberate and calm. "Rather than taking unnecessary risks, why not choose someone currently on the rise—someone who is gaining power and influence as Astrid's consort? That way, you could both rein in his ambitions and use him to pursue territorial expansion. Whatever else may be said about him, his abilities are undeniably exceptional."

Charles V quickly caught on to the duke's implications and nodded slowly. "You're referring to Count Michael, I presume. I've been racking my brain trying to decide what kind of reward to bestow upon him."

The duke immediately affirmed, "Exactly, Your Majesty. Consider the current state of the continent, where many powerful individuals have gathered, thanks to Count Michael's strategies. He is sure to accomplish even greater feats in the future."