The Bewilderment of the Sacrificial Second Princess

Chapter 25: Spinning about contracts

I was at a crossroads.

Personally, I believe that both getting married and getting divorced should be a personal choice and not dictated by rules or customs. But, if this is how things are done in this country, then so be it.

However, there is now a influx of craftsmen coming into the country.

Skills such as sericulture, papermaking, illustration production, ink making, and silk production are not easily shared with other countries. If permission is not granted, the risk of low-quality imitations and a shortage of raw materials driving up costs exist.

Thankfully, the population is well-educated and there are government offices in various locations, so there are no major inconveniences.

Given this, I see religion as a useful tool. Swearing by a higher power puts a check on one’s heart, preventing them from betraying their commitments.

It’s not ideal to expect people to stay in a relationship even if they face violence, mistreatment, or infidelity. The current system is more efficient.

As for the employment of craftsmen, contracts should be signed between the employer and employee, with the list of names submitted to the government. Employers should be notified of any departures or arrivals, and a reason for leaving should be provided. While some technology transfer is inevitable, it’s important to ensure it’s not overly restricted.

Regarding employment, we can refine the details later and perhaps Lord Balk and others in the industry can come up with a better solution.

“…None.”

The main concern is with marriage and reporting births and deaths.

Especially for the nobility, clear rules need to be established. Noble families that value their lineage and bring their subjects together as lords will face confusion if they follow the same system as the commoners.

“Claire.”

I lifted my head, surprised. The milk tea in my hand had grown cold.

“Are you alright? Don’t be too harsh on yourself.”

“I’m sorry, I was just thinking about our marriage and…”

“It’s okay. That’s what we’re here to talk about. You’re the Crown Princess, after all. You can talk to me about anything.”

He spoke kindly and with a smile. I’m to be the Crown Princess of this country, but I still know so little about it.

Who else can I turn to for guidance, if not the person I’ll be tied to through this contract?

I took a quick gulp of the now cold milk tea. It still tasted delicious.

As I went to refill my cup, I hesitantly shared my thoughts on the marriage contract with His Highness Auglia.

“The commoners are fine as they are. Many farmers don’t even know how to write their own name. Even if they submit false documents to the government, there’s no actual deception and they won’t receive any extra benefits just because they’re married.”

When I expressed my concerns about the marriages and births of royalty and nobility, His Highness Auglia appeared contemplative. However, he quickly altered his demeanor and beamed at me.

“Here, I brought you a refill. Claire, let’s think about this tomorrow. I have a good idea about what we can do. For now, let’s just finish this tea and go to bed.”

“Y-Yes, Your Highness.”

What could this “good idea” be?

I still feel like a stranger in this country.

To distract myself from tomorrow’s meeting, I sipped the warm milk tea once again.