[On the contrary, it had taken Nikolai no time at all to propose, and he had hardly needed to work up the nerve. He already had plenty of it. No sooner had he revealed his true identity to Alina than he was floating the idea of the Sun Summoner becoming his queen. Then what started as a clever political maneuver gradually turned to genuine feelings — but only on his side. He took for granted that she would say yes to a prince. She was, as always, full of surprises.

Nevertheless, he accepts Konoha's condolences with a soft squeeze of her hand.]

Worry not, I have no shortage of nerve. As for my ideal wife...well, she must be intelligent, beautiful, and gifted in witty repartee, of course.

[Then his expression turns from glib to thoughtful. His gaze turns aside.]

I would want us to be equal partners. Quite simply, I want someone who knows my mind and heart and decides I am worthy of being loved.

[Regardless, he adds privately.]