The one opposing my baron promotion boldly continued to speak.

    "A man must marry and establish a family to become an adult. However, Baron Medici is still unmarried, isn''t he? Until now, his numerous accomplishments might have warranted a title even for a child."

    It might sound ridiculous, but in pre-modern societies, no matter how old a man was, if he remained unmarried, he wasn''t considered an adult in the village.

    During village meetings, a married 15-year-old could participate, but a 30-year-old unmarried man could not.

    This was because one had to take responsibility for a household to be legally and morally regarded as an adult.

    "The responsibilities of a baron and a baronet differ."

    The most straightforward difference comes into play when a war breaks out, and enemies invade their territory.

    Baronets must gather soldiers and respond to summonses from nobles of the baron rank or higher when war occurs.

    On the other hand, barons might need to summon all available soldiers in their region to fight.

    They have to take on the role of commander.

    ''Additionally, the weight of the obligations differs.''

    "Your Majesty, I do not intend to belittle the accomplishments of Baronets. However, it seems that marriage should take precedence."

    Looking closely at the person speaking those words...

    He was a legal noble belonging to the Sforza Duke faction.

    He was attempting to maintain the balance of power against the Visconti Duke''s influence and prevent the scales from tipping.

    It takes some skill to oppose the Emperor while not inciting his anger.

    I couldn''t help but wonder if he was practicing on a wooden horse every day at home.

    ''But why on earth is the Emperor smiling?''

    "The Minister of Justice makes a valid point. Though Baron Medici''s achievements are significant, we cannot disregard the traditions that have been passed down through generations."

    Why does the Minister of Justice look so pleased even after opposing?

    And perhaps it''s just my imagination, but it seems the Emperor is licking his lips while looking at me.

    I need to see a doctor after this matter is settled; I need sufficient rest.

    I should refrain from any vigorous exercise at night.

    ''Chloe might dislike it, but I need to live a long life.''

    "Very well, overseeing noble marriages is also my duty. I shall select a suitable noble lady for marriage, and after the wedding ceremony, I will grant him the title. Yes, while rewarding accomplishments is important, adhering to precedents is crucial as well."

    Upon hearing this, the Minister of Justice clenched his fist and looked pleased.

    That guy seems intent on postponing the title grant while discussing it with the duke.

    Although becoming a baron is a bit delayed, there''s nothing I can do about it.

    I hope they can limit their jealousy to a reasonable level.

    As one rises in rank, the number of envious people inevitably increases.

    "I will postpone the grant of the title for now."

    Although the Emperor said this, I could clearly foresee what would happen next.

    The Minister of Justice would report directly to Duke Sforza.

    Upon hearing this, the duke would likely say that while marriage is fine, it would be wise to refrain from elevating the Medici family to the rank of baron out of consideration for their dignity.

    Then, the Visconti Duke and the Sforza Duke would end up in a verbal dispute...

    ‘Things might get dragged out indefinitely.’

    As the discussions began to settle, the Visconti Duke spoke up.

    "I also resonate with what the Minister of Justice said. As stated, titles come with responsibilities, and to bear those responsibilities, one must naturally become an ''adult.''"

    "Alfred also mentioned that considering Fabio''s character and abilities, he would find it suitable to give his daughter to him. Therefore, how about granting Fabio a title and holding the wedding ceremony as soon as possible?"

    Upon hearing this, the Emperor nodded.

    "Let it be so. But are you really okay with this, duke? After all, Fabio is only a baron."

    "In just three years, he has risen from the second son of a baron to formally receiving the title of baron. When evaluating a person, one should look at their potential, not their status or wealth, right?"

    What kind of democracy are these nobles spouting?

    "If that is the duke''s intention, then I shall accept it. I will grant the title of baron to Fabio de Medici. Moreover, his title ceremony will be held after his marriage to the Visconti Duke''s granddaughter, Erica de Visconti."

    The Emperor let out a deep sigh and declared the meeting closed.

    I couldn''t accept this absurd situation.

    When I sent the small duke Alfred to my side for the journey to Nador, it was only strange.

    What on earth is happening here?

    I wished for success, but is this the monkey''s paw of the gods?

    Are they really sending a duke''s daughter to a mere baron?

    It was only written in the imperial law that it was possible; it''s an unprecedented situation.

    The duke continued to pat my shoulder, which felt like it had lost its soul.

    "Are you so happy that you''re out of your mind? I called for over five minutes, but there was no response."

    "I apologize, Your Grace."

    The duke spent nearly an hour lavishing praise on how much he cherished me.

    However, my dazed mind couldn''t process what he was saying at all.

    It seemed the duke himself didn''t expect me to take the praise meaningfully...

    ''Perhaps he knows I''m out of my mind and is keeping an eye on those around him.''

    Finally, he whispered,

    "Our granddaughter is prettier than your maid. This is just an objective fact."

    No one in this world dislikes money or beautiful women.

    Perhaps that’s why my senses suddenly returned.

    "Last year, when Alfred took Erica to the Kingdom of Lyon, the second prince reportedly proposed to her on the spot."

    ...This matter could potentially lead to diplomatic issues.

    If the second prince would go that far, how incredibly beautiful must he be?