This section of the light novel introduces Ilarion Svarov, a highly accomplished and universally admired young nobleman, and sets in motion a series of events driven by a royal marriage proposal and Ilarion's own long-held affections.
The narrative begins with Prince Viktor of the Kingdom of Cuer expressing his distress to his close friend, Ilarion. Viktor reveals that his father, the King, intends to arrange a marriage between Ilarion and Princess Anastasia. This proposal is problematic because Anastasia is already in love with someone else, Eric, and her happiness is paramount to both her brother, Viktor, and Ilarion. Ilarion, despite the honor of such a proposal, immediately states he cannot accept it if it means Anastasia's unhappiness. He then proposes a solution: if he were to marry someone else before the King formally proposes, it might circumvent the issue. Viktor is deeply moved by Ilarion's selflessness. Ilarion then describes his ideal partner in vivid detail: someone with soft, milk-tea colored hair, eyes like the dawn, a face suited for smiles, freckles, and the ability to talk to animals. Viktor, after some thought, realizes he knows of one such person.
The story then delves into Ilarion's background, establishing him as a legendary figure at the age of twenty-four. He is the heir to the Svarov Marquisate, a genius who excelled in academics and combat, becoming a Sword Master and the youngest Royal Knight Commander. He also contributes significantly to politics and has made groundbreaking discoveries in magic, earning him the title of Special Advisor Mage at the Magic Tower. Despite his numerous achievements and unparalleled beauty, which captivates all the ladies of the kingdom, he remains unmarried and humble. He is described as a perfect gentleman, respected and admired by everyone, from nobles to commoners.
Ilarion then visits the Count Crujet's estate with a bouquet and a proposal letter, expecting to meet the lady Viktor had in mind. However, upon meeting Count Crujet's daughter, Sophia, Ilarion politely states that he wishes to speak with Miss Teril, not Sophia. The Count and his wife are flustered, revealing that Teril, their eldest daughter, is considered unstable and unintelligent, and has been kept out of sight. They dismiss her as unworthy of Ilarion. Ilarion, however, insists on meeting Teril, stating his intention to propose to her. The Crujet family is aghast, vehemently protesting that Teril is unsuitable. Ilarion, unfazed, expresses his deep affection for Teril, whom he has only met twice.
The narrative then shifts to the aftermath of Ilarion's proposal. The Crujet family is in an uproar. Sophia is furious that she was overlooked, and her mother is disgusted at the thought of Teril marrying into a prestigious family. Count Crujet, however, sees the potential benefit for their family, despite his disdain for Teril. Meanwhile, Teril, living in a humble attic room, is disturbed by the red ranunculus Ilarion gave her, feeling a sense of dread that her past might be exposed.
Ilarion meets with Prince Viktor again, confirming his proposal to Teril. Viktor is astonished by Ilarion's rapid actions and his unusual choice of bride, given Teril's reputation. Ilarion, however, is utterly smitten, describing Teril as the "cutest person" he knows, a statement that shocks Viktor, who knows Teril as an eccentric recluse. Ilarion's intense protectiveness of Teril leads him to subtly threaten Viktor if he insults her. He reveals that Teril is his first love, whom he has secretly admired for fifteen years. He explains that he has been avoiding marriage because Teril asked him not to search for her, and he has been waiting for the right time to reconnect.
Ilarion then explains to Viktor that Teril was living as a maid in the Crujet household and was mistreated. He intends to remove her from that environment immediately. He also reveals that he has already purchased a new residence for them and is making extensive preparations for their future. He asks Viktor to help him find someone knowledgeable about women's goods and household staff.
The story then flashes back fifteen years to Ilarion's childhood meeting with Teril. A young Ilarion, contemplating his future path, encounters a girl with unusual hair and eyes who encourages him to pursue all his ambitions, not just one. She reveals she can understand animals and learned of his kindness from a crow he rescued. She predicts he will have a fortunate life and become a great person. She also gives him a cryptic warning to be humble and to avoid being found. This encounter deeply impacted Ilarion, and he has cherished her words and the ranunculus flowers she sent him over the years as symbols of her support.
Back in the present, Ilarion and Teril are discussing the marriage. Teril agrees to a contract marriage, stipulating that it is temporary and that Ilarion can end it at any time. She claims she is doing this to help him avoid an unwanted arranged marriage and to prevent him from being burdened by her. Ilarion, though heartbroken by the contract's terms, agrees to the arrangement, seeing it as a way to keep her close. He insists on moving her into his residence immediately, citing the Crujet family's mistreatment. Teril agrees, admitting she is happy to be with him. They begin to draft the contract, with Teril insisting on a one-year term and the ability to end it, while Ilarion subtly tries to prolong their time together. He also proposes that they act as a loving couple to solidify the facade. Teril agrees to call him by his first name, which deeply affects Ilarion.
Finally, Ilarion informs Viktor that he and Teril have agreed to a contract marriage. Viktor, though sympathetic to Ilarion's predicament, is bewildered by the convoluted nature of their relationship and Teril's insistence on a contract. Ilarion, despite his immense capabilities, finds himself struggling to navigate Teril's complex emotions and her insistence on not being a burden.
