"Let's get engaged, Axel."
It took a moment before his expression seemed to change. I had expected shock, but he just stared at me wordlessly, his expression almost seemed blank, but there was an edge to his gaze. I quickly clarified before he could immediately reject the idea.
"It would only be temporary. The Temple will need a legitimate reason to fully back you, and this is the easiest way. With the Temple's support, and having the Saintess as your fiancé, you will gain the approval of the common people, and with their backing, more of the nobles will also join you. You're also the first prince, meaning if we followed the usual traditions of the empire, it won't be long until you're officially the crown prince. Before we are to be wed, I will call off the engagement in a way that won
