Hohenheim introduces Wendelin to Elize then, due to his naiveté, tricks Wendelin into forming a political marriage with Elize. Wendelin panics at the idea of marrying a woman he doesn’t love, but is later assured by Erich that nobles rarely meet their betrothed until the wedding. As he is swarmed by unemployed adventurers every time he leaves his home he hires a grateful Erwin as his retainer. Wendelin sneaks into Hohenheim’s estate to talk to Elize and is relieved that she is at least not against marrying him. When Louise and Lina find Erwin is Wendelin’s retainer they decide to outdo him by becoming Wendelin’s mistresses after he marries Elize. Wendelin is invited to dinner with Elize where the butler suggests Wendelin provide Elize an engagement ring. Wendelin takes Elize shopping, but rather than a showy ring Wendelin purchases a much plainer ring that suits Elize better, learning afterwards it is made from a magic storing crystal, making it perfect for Elize’s healing magic.