Alex couldn't have told her the whole thing about the Ascension Trials and the things waiting for them out there. It would complicate things.

A single word she speaks would have made her the subject of suspicion in front of others. And considering Headmaster Hector's skills, it would be dangerous for Celestria to know everything.

So he just vaguely gave her the reason, "Something is about to happen, in which I would need your father's support. However, if I tell him that I am romantically involved with his precious daughter, do you think he would agree to support me?"

Alex scoffed before adding, "Forget about support, he might as well send forces to capture me."

Celestria sobbed, "Why do you think my father would not accept our relationship?"

"Because...of our status? Isn't it obvious?"

Celestria blinked innocently before adding, "But Alex, he accepted my proposal when I said I would only get married if the groom is you....but just, he would assess your worth first."

"..." Alex stared at the girl dumbly. It took him a few moments to register what she said before he asked, "Come again?"

"I-I said he accepted our relationship, but to give his blessings, he would first test you."

Alex's eyes slowly stretched as he asked in disbelief, "Without even asking me you told your father that we are dating and want to get married?"

"Alex...I know I made a mistake...B-But if not for the prophecy suddenly urging my Father to get me married, I wouldn't have lied to him."

Alex, who was covering his forehead in exasperation, glanced at the girl before asking, "What prophecy?"

Celestria hurriedly explained, "The Saintess said that if I don't get married and sent away from Grimland by the end of this year, then along with me this country would face its downfall."

Narrowing his eyes he asked, "You aren't lying to me, right?"

She hurriedly shook her head, "N-No, I swear."

Alex heaved a sigh; the presence of the Saintess was already unexpected and now she is ruining people's lives by prophesying random things here and there.

'Wait a second....the Saintess...' In the novel, there was no Supreme Grace, but in this world, there was. And it couldn't be said that Alex's presence caused it since the Saintess was selected as a Church member years ago.

And now, things are being manipulated from the background which is causing several things to shift from their canon counterpart.

The secret training of soldiers. The changed method of internship....everything hints that someone was aware of the Ascension Trials and has influenced things from the shadows to prepare for the upcoming crisis.

'I have a strong feeling about this....'

Alex decided to talk about it once the Saintess gets alone.

However, for now, "Cela..." He held her hand, urging the girl to look at him with her eyes parted wide,

"I wan-eh? Why are you crying?"

He was startled seeing those large droplets of tears suddenly trailing down her eyes.

"Because....you called me Cela after so long...*sob*...I am so happy...." She began to weep uncontrollably, urging Alex to pat her back and help her calm down or she might faint.

He went inside the castle to bring some water for her.

"T-Thank you..." Celestria slowly sipped on the water as she heard Alex speaking,

"Cela...I have a very clear concept about dating...I won't date a woman until I don't feel the clear intention of never letting her go. Having shallow feelings for someone feels like I am fooling the other party...and I don't think you want to be in such a relationship with me, right?"

Celestria nodded.

"That's why I asked you for some time....I wanted to ascertain my feelings for you and wanted to realise whether I am ready for this or not. As about the Saintess' prophecy then leave it to me."

"But-"Celestria began, however, she was interrupted by the silver head,

"As I said, leave it to me. If I can't convince the Saintess then I will go through any trial your father has in store." Caressing her soft cheek fondly, he added,

"After all, no one can handle this crybaby."

Celestria blushed hearing that; however, her lips didn't need her permission to extend in a smile.

But then she realised something, which urged her to ask, "But Alex...how will you meet her?" Celestria was aware of how important the Saintess was.

And to talk about these things, Alex would need to meet her in person.

However, it was nearly impossible for her father or the Priest who came from the Cathedral to allow Alex for a private meeting with her.

....and considering how beautiful the Saintess is, Celestria preferred Alex to stay away from her.

Alex grinned hearing that before he took away the handkerchief from her, and said, "This...will allow me to do the impossible."

He went ahead and told her things that happened during their journey from Ownhorg to the Capital.

The smile on Celestria's lips turned wider when she heard the exchange between Alex and the Saintess. Her eyes turned crescent as she heard him until the end before asking,

"Alex~why does it seem that this woman is attracted towards you?"

The way Celestria switched from 'The Saintess' to 'that woman' greatly surprised Alex. And her current demeanor greatly reminded him of Sarah.

But he shrugged, "Nah~she was impressed by my sword skills. Nothing more."

"That so...ahaha~" Celestria laughed however it was apparent she wasn't laughing.

Alex heaved a sigh before getting up, "Look Celestria, showing appreciation doesn't mean every other girl is attracted to me. I am not special, y'know."

Celestria couldn't help but mutter, "You are special Alex but it's just...I don't want others to know about it."

He ruffled her hair before chiding, "Okay now, stop worrying about her and go inside. They must be looking for you."

As if his words were the cue, a maid suddenly arrived before them and informed them

"Your Majesty has called you, Your Highness."

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A/N:- Thanks for reading.