Chapter 4 ◆ Even as My Wife, My Fiancée Is Still Adorable

 

Returning to the capital from Earl Scene’s territory, I was immediately swept up in hectic days.

Preparing for the wedding, handling greetings, and arranging security—all done at a relentless pace, months flew by in a blink. The reception and parade were already tomorrow.

I kept thinking, Today, I’ll say it today, but there was something I hadn’t been able to say.

I was undeniably busy.

Even a simplified wedding has its formalities—three steps forward, bow, sign the oath here.

There’s a mountain to memorize, and countless guests who couldn’t attend the reception came by, forcing me to repeat “Congratulations” and “Thank you.”

Lady Shitoen was no different. She had dress fittings to deal with.

In hindsight, there really wasn’t time to visit Vandel.

I’ll do it tomorrow since today’s busy.

Tomorrow, Lady Shitoen’s busy, so I’ll find a moment to talk.

Oh, she’s already asleep, so next time.

Repeating this, the words I wanted to say smoldered in my chest, fermenting and starting to reek.

I wanted to clear it out. To spit it out.

Just one question: “Who’s Atsuhito?” to Lady Shitoen.

And to tell her how I feel.

Yet I couldn’t. It festered, leaving me in a foul mood.

Maybe Atsuhito was a dog she adored. I tried reframing it. It doesn’t have to be a person. Maybe a big dog like me.

But then I imagined the dog’s owner being some great guy she loved, and I sank again.

This constant brooding doesn’t suit me.

At least, I wanted to settle it before the wedding.

Steeling myself, I knocked on Lady Shitoen’s bedroom door.

“Yes?”

Part of me hoped she was asleep. Her bell-like voice sent my heart racing. Panicking slightly, I thought, What now?

“I-It’s me.”

My voice trembled pathetically.

“Oh… come in.”

I heard pattering, like she was tidying something. Regretting if she was preparing for tomorrow, I slowly opened the door.

“Were you busy?”

I spoke in Tania-go.

She was already in nightwear. I was still in a shirt and trousers.

She might not have planned to sleep yet—stationery and an inkpot sat on the desk.

“No, just writing a letter to my hometown,” Lady Shitoen said with a smile.

Our private, especially nighttime, talks had naturally shifted to Tania-go. She spoke more casually now, which felt comfortable to me.

“Shall I ask Eton for tea or something…?”

She reached for the bell, but I quickly shook my head.

“It’ll be quick. I just wanted to talk.”

I closed the door behind me.

“Then, to the sofa,” she gestured, inviting me to sit.

But sitting might lead to other topics, so I shook my head again.

“I thought about staying quiet or not asking, but I wanted to be clear before the wedding.”

As I spoke, Lady Shitoen’s gentle expression stiffened.

“What’s… wrong?”

“When we went to Vandel’s estate and on the way back, you weren’t feeling well, right?”

“Yes,” she nodded hesitantly.

I just needed to spill my heart. To tell her. I grew desperate.

“When you were drowsy from the medicine, you said to me, ‘Atsuhito.’”

I swallowed hard, air and all.

I regretted not asking for tea.

“Is Atsuhito a person’s name? Does he… resemble me? Do you love him?”

My lips froze, cowardly.

Speak, I urged myself.

I’ve never flinched against thieves or armies. In dire situations, adrenaline surges, and I’d leap at foes laughing, burning with energy.

But now, the more I spoke, the colder my body felt.

“Shitoen…”

My tongue tangled, my body numb, as if it’d stop moving.

“Do you really love him, not me?”

The moment I said it, my heart emptied.

All that smoldering, reeking pressure deflated. It felt flat.

I vaguely realized it had weight.

“I don’t know if you’ll believe me,” Lady Shitoen began after a long silence, her voice clear.

“But I have memories of a past life.”

“Past life… like reincarnation?”

It’s not a belief here, but I’d heard in the Tania Kingdom, people are said to be reborn multiple times.

“Yes, reincarnation. I was born in another world, grew up… You wondered where I got my medical knowledge, right?”

Smiling slightly, she tilted her head. I nodded hesitantly.

There’s no record or history of her practicing medicine in the Tania Kingdom, nor how she gained such specialized knowledge.

“That’s knowledge from my past life. I was a doctor.”

“Doctor…”

I repeated, staring at her.

She’s petite.

Wrapped in silk nightwear, her chest and hips small, almost girlish.

But her tone and expression seemed so mature.

“My lover in that life was named Atsuhito… He was a nurse.”

When she said his name, my heart ached.

Because she said it so lovingly, so preciously.

“Big, friendly with everyone… Above all, a nurse who cared deeply for patients. Assigned to the operating room, but always wandering the wards, getting scolded by the head nurse…”

She chuckled, smiling.

I only half-understood.

Nurse. Head nurse.

Before I could dwell or ask, seeing her face, I burned with jealousy.

For Atsuhito, a man I’d never seen.

I clenched my teeth, silent.

“He cherished me so much… But one day, a woman badly injured by her husband’s violence was brought to the treatment room. As we worked, her deranged husband stormed in with a knife.”

Lady Shitoen paused, taking a deep breath.

“Atsuhito shielded me and was killed…”

I understood, my body relaxing slightly.

That’s why she was so shaken when we were attacked at the café, desperate to protect me.

“After that, I died from injuries sustained then. When I woke, I was living as Shitoen Barimoa in this world.”

She spoke haltingly.

At first, she had no past-life memories. But at sixteen, after a severe reaction to peaches left her near death, she recalled them.

She continued as Shitoen Barimoa, until her engagement was broken.

“When you told me to make him apologize, my heart nearly stopped. Because…”

Covering her face with both hands, her shoulders trembled.

“Because I resembled him?”

No reply, just her shaking, crying.

“You said you liked me because I’m like Atsuhito?”

I asked again, hearing her sobs, her pained breaths.

“W-Well…”

She lowered her hands, her tear-soaked eyes meeting mine directly.

“But…”

“No, it’s fine. The reason doesn’t matter. I mean, sorry,” I blurted out rapidly.

“I didn’t mean to make you cry or interrogate you. I just wanted you to hear me.”

“…Hear?” she asked.

“Yeah. Look,” I tugged my shirt to smooth wrinkles, straightening my slouched back.

“I was thrilled thinking you liked me, but learning it’s because I resemble Atsuhito, your past-life lover… I felt crushed, embarrassed for getting carried away.”

“No, that’s not it…” she interjected desperately, but I cut her off with “Listen.”

“I get how you feel. You loved him so much he appears in your dreams, even reborn, right? Seeing someone like him, of course…”

I scratched my head.

“Shitoen, wasn’t it painful? Are you okay? I didn’t even notice…”

She stood silently, a tear falling.

She said nothing.

So instead, I needed to turn my pent-up emotions into words for her.

“I know I can’t tell you to forget someone that important. It’s impossible, and I get that. But…”

I swallowed, clenching my fists, resolute.

“Look at me.”

I forced a smile, maybe awkward, but I puffed out my chest.

“Not right away. Whenever. When he’s gone from your heart, even a little, look at me.”

Another tear fell from her wide eyes.

“I’ll work hard to make you love me.”

Strangely, I felt relieved. Maybe because I’d said what I needed to. With a calm heart, I smiled naturally at her.

I’d finally told her everything I wanted her to hear.

To think I’d been brooding over something so simple.

To say this, I needed to confirm who Atsuhito was, and facing that pain was… unbearable.

I could’ve skipped it and said, “Love me,” but that felt cowardly, like delaying the problem, risking something worse.

It hurt, and realizing she might love Atsuhito, not me, was a blow before the wedding.

But in the end, if I work hard to make her love me, it’s fine. A fresh start from today!

“No, Saryu-ouji,” she said.

“Huh?”

She shook her head vigorously, my eyes widening. What? What’s wrong?

“…Is it that hopeless? Can’t forget him?”

I asked cautiously.

Atsuhito, a formidable rival. I’d never heard of a “nurse” title. Is it above a prince? An emperor or something?

“I-I…” She stepped closer, nearly stumbling.

I reached out, but she didn’t fall.

Instead, she gripped both my hands tightly.

“I love you.”

“…Atsuhito?”

Why must I keep confirming?

But she shook her head rapidly.

“Saryu-ouji!”

Her loud declaration froze me.

Maybe my breathing stopped too.

“Saryu-ouji!?”

I dropped to one knee, coughing violently.

She knelt, rubbing my back. “T-Thank you,” I gasped, breathing heavily.

“It’s true I thought you were like Atsuhito, kind like him. Honestly, I saw him through you for a long time. But…”

She continued rubbing my back.

“You always looked at me. Just me.”

I slowly looked up, meeting her eyes.

“You believed my words, stayed by me in tough times. Before I knew it, you were all I could see…”

Her purple eyes softened with a smile.

“Remember picking the glass earrings’ color?”

“…Yeah, the blue ones.”

My throat hurt from coughing. She kept gently rubbing my back.

“When you looked at me, seriously choosing, my heart felt so warm…”

“…Huh?”

“I realized I love you.”

She wrapped her arms around me, hugging tightly.

“I love you. Not anyone else, just you.”

Her arms tightened around my neck.

“I love you, Saryu-ouji.”

Her trembling voice caressed my ears.

“I love you too, Shitoen.”

Kneeling, I hugged her slender frame, pulling her close. She smelled of soap and rose oil.

“I’m so glad you love someone like me.”

Her lips pressed against my neck, sending a dizzying rush through me.

Cradling her head to avoid the floor, I gently pinned her down.

She didn’t resist.

Looking down at her lying beneath me, I saw her beauty.

Silver hair. Purple eyes. Pale skin.

Drawn in, I leaned closer, kissing her.

Pressing my lips repeatedly, they were soft, sweet.

Honey, I realized. Maybe she’d eaten some sweet.

She wrapped her arms around my back, trembling slightly, clutching my shirt tightly. Feeling her cling, I asked, “Scared?”

She shook her head.

I kissed her slender neck. Sweeter than honey, her sighs spilled out. Wanting to hear more, I touched her chest through her nightwear.

She flinched, a small “Ah,” escaping, so I kissed her again.

Her soft, delicate chest. As I touched, she writhed, moaning sweetly.

Her nightwear’s hem slipped, her legs catching the orange light, alluringly warm and smooth.

“Nn…”

Blushing, she turned away, her lips trembling to stifle her voice.

Wanting to see her adorable face, I reached deeper toward her thigh—

Three sharp knocks echoed mercilessly.

“My apologies, Lady Shitoen. The young master isn’t here, is he?” The steward.

I pressed a finger to my lips. Lady Shitoen, flustered, nodded repeatedly.

More knocks.

“Commander, you’re not in there, right? Not with Lady Shitoen?” Raul.

Knock knock knock knock knock.

“Commander? Commander? Commander? Commander? Commander?”

“Young master, just to clarify, the wedding is tomorrow.”

Knock knock knock knock knock knock knock.

“Commander, Commander, Commander, Commander, Commander, Commander, Commander.”

“My orders from His Majesty and the crown prince are to protect Lady Shitoen’s chastity—”

“Com—man—der! Com—man—der! Com—man—der!!”

Argh!

“Fine, I’m coming out!!”

I leapt up, flinging open the door.

The steward and Raul stood glaring at me.

“No openings, huh?”

“Disappointed, Commander. Tsk.”

“Raul, you clicked your tongue!”

“Did not.”

Behind me, Lady Shitoen’s laughter rang out.

Glancing back, she covered her mouth, giggling.

Ugh, she’s insanely cute…

Yet I was grabbed by the collar and tossed into my bedroom.

 

◇◇◇◇

 

The next day.

Our wedding was held in the radiant capital.

The ceremony in the cathedral went smoothly, followed by a parade through the capital. More citizens than expected came to celebrate, and Lady Shitoen cried the whole time.

Patting her head, I was thoroughly spotted by the crowd, who whistled and teased.

After changing, we moved to the palace reception…

“Are you okay, Lady Shitoen? Not tired?”

For me, changing was simple—swap jackets, match the flower to her dress.

But for her, it’s hair, makeup, accessories, the whole dress.

Her changing time far outstripped mine. I used the break to drink water, eat bread, get teased by the crown prince, or cried over by Mother via Second Brother.

But Lady Shitoen didn’t get that, I thought, staring at her.

We stood side by side at the reception entrance, greeting guests.

She wore a cream dress, red shoes, and hairpiece matching my flower. The garnet necklace, a gift from the Tania king, was chosen to match her dress.

We’d greeted the Tania king earlier, who was delighted, saying it suited her.

She looks good in anything, though.

“I’m fine. Thank you,” she smiled.

Wow… so cute. What do I do, she’s cute.

My wife from today, and so cute.

“No need for ‘-jou’ anymore.”

“Oh, right. Habit. Uh… you okay, Shitoen…-jou?”

I tried correcting but added it anyway, making her giggle. It feels incomplete without it.

“You call me Shitoen in Tania-go,” she said, laughing aloud now, amused.

“That’s because I don’t get honorifics there… I still think ‘-jou’ in my head.”

“Oh, really?” she laughed happily.

So cute. What do I do?

“Earl Scene’s heir, Vandel-sama,” a voice called from the corridor.

A guest. Vandel, huh…

I considered slacking off but saw Lord Murder with him. Nope, gotta stand tall in my military uniform.

They stopped before us, bowing properly. Vandel’s a noble; he can do it right.

“Congratulations, my friend. Heartfelt blessings,” Vandel said with a fake smile, arms wide.

Ugh, here we go. I hugged him reluctantly, and he kissed my cheek, so I kneed his side.

“Haha, stop, you shy guy.”

“Cut it out!”

I spat, sighing.

“You get healthier every time. So much for your picky eating.”

The decadent vampire earl was gone. He’s a robust, wholesome earl’s heir now.

“Thanks to the lady. No, not lady anymore—Shitoen-hi. Truly, thank you,” he said, bowing politely to Shitoen, not -jou.

“It’s the result of your efforts, Vandel-sama,” she replied, smiling kindly.

“Nah, I got into this mess by not trying,” Vandel said.

“It’s fate, right? Meeting Shitoen-hi. In the end, you’re my destined man,” he teased.

“Shut up, shut up.”

“Congratulations, Prince and Princess. I wish you happiness,” Lord Murder said solemnly, making Vandel and me reflect.

“Thanks, Lord Murder. How’s it going?” I coughed, resetting the mood.

“We’re now regularly checking residents’ health, especially those eating a lot of Caris,” he nodded deeply.

“Health checkups. Wonderful,” Shitoen said brightly.

Lord Murder’s lips twitched slightly, his version of blushing, pleased by her praise.

“I think the Mila Empire’s struggling with this disease too. We’re sharing information,” Vandel said, looking between us.

“Goody-two-shoes. Giving it away free?” I grumbled.

“Haha,” Vandel laughed dryly. “I’m aiming for something in return.”

His eyes were scary.

“I look forward to reporting the results,” Lord Murder added gleefully.

Shitoen and I exchanged strained smiles. Scary. They’re plotting something.

Attendants appeared, ushering Vandel and company inside with, “This way.”

Inside, my parents, the king and queen, and my brother, the crown prince, and his wife were hosting.

“We’ll see you later. Oh, Scene’s territory is ringing celebratory bells now,” Lord Murder said, bowing deeply.

Nice. I thought of Rigo. Hope he’s doing well with his wife.

“I saw them earlier. They’re next,” Vandel said as he entered.

“Who?”

“Crown Prince Arios and his woman.”

He smirked meaningfully and vanished inside.

“Ugh…”

I groaned.

Right. Father and I said no, but Mother invited them.

“Hohohoho, show them your happiness!” she’d said with a wicked grin.

And my crown prince brother egged her on, “Hahaha, do it, Mother!” They’re so alike.

“Sorry about that,” I bowed.

Shitoen’s eyes widened. “Why apologize? It’s fine, Saryu-ouji.”

She chuckled. “Let’s show them our happiness.”

She’ll get along with Mother.

“Crown Prince Arios of the Caravan Union’s Luminous Kingdom and Meil-jou,” a voice announced.

I glanced at Shitoen, who blinked up at me with her long lashes.

Not Crown Princess Meil.

So, King Noie hasn’t approved them yet.

Hearing footsteps, I straightened, looking down the corridor.

If only everyone was like Vandel, but the troublesome ones outnumber them. I’m glad I’m not the eldest. Being crown prince is tough, I grumbled inwardly, as two familiar figures appeared.

“Congratulations,” Crown Prince Arios said briefly, bowing politely in Tidros-go.

Huh, he can do it right. Not just a foolish prince.

His attire was fitting for a crown prince—restrained, in a military uniform with medals, as their crown prince likely deals with military matters. Father says he’s smart and good at governance, but…

“Eek! So lovely!” a saccharine Caravan common tongue rang out.

I looked over. Meil, standing before Shitoen, suddenly hugged her.

A clatter prompted me to signal the venue and my guards. “Stop! It’s just a greeting!”

Knights naturally sprang forward when someone rudely approached the princess.

Even at a reception, security is tight.

Lady Shitoen was targeted months ago. With crowds at the palace today, we can’t let our guard down.

I’m wearing a protector under my uniform, but for the festive occasion, security’s discreetly placed.

“What!? What’s that!?” Meil clung to Shitoen, scared.

Who hugs without greeting first?

“It’s nothing, Meil-jou. It’s been a while,” Shitoen soothed, patting Meil’s back in Caravan common tongue. So forgiving. I love her more.

“Meil, greet first,” Arios whispered.

The knights returned to their posts. Seriously, teach her manners before coming. Even Vandel greeted before hugging.

Haha, what am I being forced to witness?

That woman’s acting all proud just for greeting properly. Should I praise her? No, that’s absurd. Meil’s supposed to be in her late teens. You only get “Well done” for this kind of thing when you’re in single digits. But Crown Prince Arios is pleading with his eyes for me to praise her. What’s with these two?

“Good day, Meil-jou. Welcome to the Tidros Kingdom,” I said with a strained smile, refusing to praise her.

“Good day, Bear-san,” Meil giggled, remembering my nickname. Is there no way to erase that from her memory…?

“Your dress is lovely, Shitoen-sama!” she said, smoothly shifting her gaze from me to Shitoen with a smile.

“Thank you,” Shitoen smiled back. Well, maybe women get along better. Can they handle this?

“That garnet’s gorgeous too! Almost too good for you, Shitoen-sama!”

Retract that! She’s picking a fight with my precious wife!

I stepped forward, expecting Arios to intervene, but he glared at me instead.

Fine, I’ll take that challenge. Wearing a military uniform with no combat experience, huh?

“Yes, it’s a gift from the Tania king,” Shitoen’s voice slid between me and Arios. I turned to her.

She leaned forward, showing off the garnet necklace to Meil.

“I heard mineral trade with your kingdom has stopped. Will such high-quality gems never reach the Luminous Kingdom again…? That’s concerning, isn’t it?”

Meil stared at Shitoen, dumbfounded.

Arios was the same, his earlier hostility replaced by shock, staring at Shitoen.

Is this really that Shitoen Barimoa?

“How about we sell you some?” I said, crossing my arms and smiling at Arios. “We could buy from the Tania Kingdom and resell to you. A nice gift for Meil-jou, maybe?”

If it suits her, that is!!

I shouted in my head.

The air went still.

Arios glared at me again, while Meil bit her lip, looking up at Shitoen.

An attendant broke the silence, saying, “To the venue, please.”

“We’ll discuss business later,” I said, shifting to block their view of Shitoen.

Just before they entered, Arios’s eyes met mine. Or maybe he was trying to look at Shitoen.

“You’ve been deceiving me all along,” he muttered.

Deceiving?

Who deceived whom?

I narrowed my eyes, but my concern shifted to Shitoen. Did she hear? It seemed not—his voice was low, and his lips barely moved.

Our eyes met.

“…Heh,” Shitoen let out a small laugh, her shoulders shaking with amusement.

“You really are the crown prince’s brother and the queen’s son. So alike.”

“Not true. I didn’t say it,” I insisted.

“That those gems are too much for Meil-jou.”

I thought she’d scold my sharp tongue, but laughter erupted around us.

Looking around, the guards were chuckling, their armor clinking. Shitoen narrowed her eyes mischievously.

“Seems everyone agrees.”

 

◇◇◇◇

 

This wasn’t how it was supposed to be, Arios thought, biting his lower lip.

The reception dinner was over, and now guests mingled in a new venue.

Everyone—every single person—praised Shitoen Barimoa, now the Third Princess of Tidros.

It wasn’t flattery; Arios could tell.

They praised her even when she wasn’t around.

They said she cured a disease plaguing the people, benefiting the kingdom.

They said the stern Tidros queen and crown princess adored her like their own.

They said she might speak every language, a true genius.

Above all, she was doted on by her husband, Saryu El Tidros, and treated like a goddess by his knights.

“She’s a fine princess.”

“The crown prince supports the nation, Saryu excels in martial arts, and the second prince’s diplomacy is impressive. Tidros is secure.”

Everyone flocked to Shitoen, offering sycophantic smiles and congratulations.

This was nothing like her time in the Luminous Kingdom.

She stayed confined in Arios’s mansion, and even at social events, she’d slip away from him to deal with elderly women. Arrogant, lording her status, bullying Meil.

That’s who Shitoen was supposed to be.

“They look so happy.”

“Even for a political marriage, such a close couple is rare.”

A passing royal said with a fond smile, adding to Arios’s irritation.

She used to have a blank face around me.

Gritting his teeth, he glared at Shitoen in the venue’s center.

Clinging to Saryu’s arm, she smiled softly. Saryu said something, and she covered her mouth, laughing amusedly.

That face stirred a memory.

When Shitoen first came to the Luminous Kingdom, she smiled like that.

“Crown Prince Arios,” she’d said gently, smiling at him.

But then…

“Under her clothes, she’s covered in lizard-like scales.”

Meil’s sugary, childish voice echoed in his ears.

Arios had come to believe Shitoen’s body was covered in scaly dragon tattoos, like a lizard-human.

“Did Your Highness see it?”

The Prime Minister’s cold question went unanswered.

Because Arios had never seen it.

He’d always thought she was repulsive. He’d convinced himself of it.

But now, her sleeveless dress revealed smooth arms, no tattoos. Her deep neckline showed only the sparkling garnet, no dragon marks anywhere—throat, collarbone, back, arms. Nowhere.

“Two cherry petal-sized tattoos.”

The Prime Minister had said that.

It was probably true.

So what had Arios believed in?

“I heard that princess had an engagement broken off somewhere,” a nearby voice said, making Arios freeze.

“I heard that too. Not formal yet, but… in another kingdom.”

“Why let go of such a beautiful princess?”

“Who knows. Some scandal, maybe?”

Whispers. Months ago, Arios would’ve brushed them off.

Shitoen was at fault. Bullying Meil, neglecting her duties as future crown princess, hiding in the mansion.

It must’ve been about that scandal.

But now…

“Scandal, huh? Maybe the guy was… heh, a womanizer?”

“Pfft. Probably. Got dumped for bad habits? The Tania king’s strict. Ignoring a daughter with a dragon tattoo…”

Arios couldn’t bear it, barely breathing.

Father wanted him to hear this.

To know shame firsthand.

“Crown Prince-sama,” Meil called in her childish voice, snapping him back.

She pouted, looking up at him. “Isn’t there anyone who speaks Caravan common tongue? I can’t talk to anyone; it’s boring.”

“Right,” Arios narrowed his eyes, patting her head.

She’s terrible at foreign languages. Tutors haven’t helped. Arios didn’t mind, but the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister were furious.

Poor Meil, suffering because he wanted her as his wife.

How much of this scandal is she involved in?

Arios didn’t want to know. He wanted to believe Meil was innocent.

“Listen as is, Your Highness,” a voice said from behind.

Not Tidros-go or Caravan common tongue—Lua-go, an ancient language used only in scriptures now.

“Take Shitoen to the garden. We’ll handle the rest.”

Arios didn’t move, as instructed, only shifting his eyes right.

A man dressed as a butler, holding a silver tray, stood behind. A familiar face.

(The Cleaner…)

A man from the Luminous Kingdom, specializing in assassinations.

Arios recalled the Prime Minister’s words.

“We’ve taken measures.”

“If she can’t be ours, she’ll belong to no one.”

Was this about assassinating Shitoen?

Swallowing hard, Arios saw Meil tilt her head curiously.

“Someone spoke to you?”

Unfamiliar with foreign languages, she looked puzzled.

“It’s nothing. Shall we go greet them?” Arios forced a smile, offering his left elbow.

“They’ll speak Caravan common tongue,” he added.

“Right! Shitoen-sama’s great with languages. She’ll talk to me!” Meil beamed, and Arios slowly approached Saryu and Shitoen.

 

◇◇◇◇

 

I plastered on a fake smile, greeting guest after guest. My facial muscles were about to collapse.

But I couldn’t stop. They came for my wedding; I had to entertain.

Is Shitoen okay? I glanced at her, pretending to sip champagne.

She was chatting with dignitaries ahead of me, looking fine, even enjoying herself.

I worried about her getting tired.

The event’s almost over, but we’ll sleep together tonight… My face burned at the thought.

No, no, no!

Sure, it’s tiring, but I’m looking forward to it!

I’m not thinking about conserving her energy for that!!

This is duty! Neglecting duty to focus on our wedding night—what’s wrong with me?!

I gulped down the champagne, shaking my head vigorously.

Clear those thoughts! I’m hopeless!

I rolled my free shoulder.

Something grazed my shoulder blade, reminding me of the vest protector under my uniform.

I hadn’t noticed it before, but now, with these weird thoughts, I felt unbearably hot.

The reception was nearing its end, about an hour left.

No suspicious figures so far. Since returning to the capital, no one’s targeted Shitoen.

“Hey, excuse me. A moment?” a voice interrupted.

I looked up, letting out a “Geh.”

Arios and Meil stood there.

I handed my empty glass to a nearby butler, forcing a smile to hide my grimace.

“Of course, Crown Prince Arios, Meil-jou. Must be tiring today.”

I switched to Caravan common tongue, assuming they wouldn’t understand Tidros-go.

Meil let out a “Hawawa!” squeal.

“Just speaking Caravan common tongue makes Bear-san look cool! I can finally talk!”

It was apparently an exclamation of awe. I gave a wry smile.

“Glad to hear it. A bear that understands human speech.”

I replied halfheartedly, and she grabbed my hand.

“But a cute bear!” she said with a flirty smile.

I shook her off, my face hardening.

“Bears are bears. Touch carelessly, and I’m not responsible for what happens.”

“Oh, scary. Will you eat me like a lost girl in the forest?” she said, smiling coyly, sending chills down my spine.

“Sorry, she’s in crown princess training,” Arios’s voice cut in smoothly between my shock and Meil’s sticky smile.

“She’s too friendly. Troublesome.”

He pulled Meil to him by the waist.

“Hahaha, sounds tough,” I said flatly, pitying her tutors.

“They keep saying hard things. I’m exhausted,” Meil pouted.

I didn’t care.

As Arios patted her head, saying, “You’re doing great,” I decided to end this conversation.

“Enjoy yourselves, then,” I said, forcing a broad smile and bowing.

“Where’s Shitoen?” Arios had the nerve to ask.

Read the room, man.

“There! Shitoen-sama!” Meil waved wildly before I could stop her.

Shitoen was finishing with a dignitary. She came over, smiling.

“Sorry, you okay over there?” I whispered, wrapping an arm around her waist.

“I’m fine,” she smiled back. An angel by my side.

“Shitoen-sama, I’m training to be a crown princess, and it’s so tough,” Meil whined.

I gave her a cold look, but Shitoen was kind.

“Oh, that sounds challenging,” she said, switching to Caravan common tongue, wrapping her arm around my back, pressing closer. It felt nice and reassuring.

“Can we talk? Maybe in the garden?” Arios glanced at the glass double doors leading outside.

I honestly didn’t want to bother. The banquet was peaking, and preparations for closing were coming. I wanted to stay inside in case attendants or clerks needed me.

“Meil’s still weak with foreign languages. It’d be… embarrassing if other royals noticed,” Arios added awkwardly.

I exchanged a look with Shitoen.

…Fair point.

Chatting here might invite comments like, “What kind of training is that?”

“I don’t mind,” Shitoen nodded with a smile.

“Thanks,” Arios said before I could, annoying me.

Grumbling, I offered Shitoen my left elbow.

“Let’s show you the garden,” I said, turning from Arios.

As we walked to the doors, Shitoen leaned in.

“What’s this about?” she asked, puzzled.

I gave a wry smile. “Not ‘Sorry for before,’ I’m sure.”

“With our history, I’d know better than you,” she replied.

We looked at each other, chuckling.

“Heading to the garden,” I told the attendant by the doors.

They opened quietly, and a cool night breeze hit my face. It felt good. Days could be sweaty, but the moat around the palace kept nights cool in summer.

Confirming the two followed, I wondered how far to walk.

“By the way, Shitoen, you haven’t seen the gazebo, right?”

“Gazebo?” she tilted her head like a bird. So cute…

She hadn’t been here long.

Her residence is on palace grounds, but with wedding preparations, she hadn’t explored much of the palace.

“The roses are beautiful now. Want to see?” I suggested.

She nodded happily. Alright, let’s go.

“It’s a bit of a walk, but there’s a gazebo with blooming roses. How about it?” I called back to Arios.

He nodded grandly. “Let’s go.”

He urged Meil, still on his arm, and they caught up.

“You two seem close,” Arios suddenly said, startling me.

Acting all friendly? Then I realized he was talking to Shitoen.

“Yes, Saryu-ouji has been very kind,” she replied, smiling unfazed.

“Is that sarcasm?” Arios’s cheek twitched.

“Everything’s different from your time in Luminous, isn’t it? Why hide it from me?”

“The situation’s different in Tidros,” she answered smoothly, surprising Arios more than me.

“What did I do?” he glared at her.

I started to intervene, but Shitoen cut in.

“You did nothing, Your Highness. You just believed what you wanted.”

I was stunned. After attacking her so publicly, he dares say that?

“Any regrets about Shitoen?” I asked.

“Regrets!?” Arios snapped indignantly, but it sure looked like it.

“Hey, Shitoen-sama,” Meil, at the edge, let go of Arios’s arm and wedged between them.

“You and Saryu-ouji are super close, huh?” she said, smiling obliviously.

“I… suppose so,” Shitoen replied, glancing at me.

I nodded, urging her to say it clearly, and opened my mouth.

“Shitoen and I are very close.”

“Hmm,” Meil pressed her finger to her lips. “You broke your engagement with Arios half a year ago, right? How do you switch loves so fast? Maybe you’ll fall for someone else soon.”

I was dumbfounded.

What is this woman?

Is she really fit to be a crown princess?

A concubine, maybe, but she’s aiming for crown princess?

This’ll wreck the social scene and palace.

“I did care for Crown Prince Arios,” Shitoen said calmly.

I wanted to say, Ignore her, but she glanced at Arios past Meil.

“It was decided by our kingdoms, but I tried to show my sincerity. Perhaps my shortcomings prevented my feelings from reaching him, leading to this outcome.”

“You’re saying you loved me?” Arios sneered.

“I tried to be earnest. But you rejected it, choosing to hear and see what you wanted, didn’t you?”

Arios winced, clearly stung.

“But I’m grateful you let me go. Thanks to that, I met Saryu-ouji, a wonderful prince…” She hesitated, blushing visibly even in the dim light.

“I found someone I love.”

Her direct gaze made my face heat up.

“Yeah… really, I can only thank you, Arios,” I laughed, unbothered by his glare, feeling triumphant.

I’m loved!!

“Saryu-ouji, Saryu-ouji,” Meil darted over, grabbing my arm.

“What?” She’s got no sense of propriety, grabbing a prince with Shitoen right here.

“Shitoen-sama’s skin is covered in scales. Don’t be shocked,” she whispered.

I was certain.

She’s the one. Meil fed Arios lies.

She caused him to say, “Someone like you.”

“Listen,” I smiled, leaning close to her.

“Liars will face their deserved hell.”

I growled low, nose nearly touching hers.

It worked. Meil scurried back to Arios, clinging to his arm, pleading something. I didn’t care. She was rude first, and Arios knew it. He soothed her, but she wasn’t satisfied, saying, “Scold him!”

I stopped, and Arios sighed, ruffling his hair.

“Sorry, Meil’s tired.”

“No! Listen, Arios! He’s bad! He scared me!” she pointed, shouting clearly.

…This woman’s something else. I’m speechless.

“Let’s get a drink back at the venue. Wait here,” Arios said, grabbing Meil’s arm and heading back.

Still unsatisfied, Meil screeched as he dragged her toward the mansion.

“Is she okay like that?” I muttered, watching Arios’s back.

They passed the azalea hedge, him calming her as they walked slowly.

“The Luminous royal family has excellent tutors. She’ll be fine,” Shitoen said, her voice trailing into a sigh.

Well, it’s their problem, I thought, shifting my gaze to her.

Then I noticed Arios’s odd movement at the edge of my vision.

I froze.

He was facing forward now, holding Meil’s arm, almost at the double doors.

But for a moment, he’d tilted his chin, looking at something.

Westward, past the hedge.

I scanned the area.

The garden was open for guests, with bonfires for ambiance, but visibility was limited. To prevent intruders in the dim light, hidden knights were stationed.

I knew Raul was watching us, maybe to ensure I didn’t touch Shitoen. He’s still nagging, “Nothing until the bedroom.”

“What’s wrong?” Shitoen asked, noticing my survey.

I looked down at her, holding my elbow, her puzzled face adorable.

My lips softened.

“Nothing,” I started to say—

My left arm was yanked down, nearly torn off.

My body lurched, and Shitoen screamed.

“Shitoen!”

She was dragged face-down into the bushes.

“Shitoen!”

She vanished into the hedge.

Gripping my sword’s hilt, I lunged forward.

A pop echoed in my head, heat surging through me. I gritted my teeth.

My vision sharpened, the target glowing white in the dimness.

Leaping over the hedge, I drew my sword, swinging.

Below, on the grass, Shitoen was pinned face-down.

One man held her legs.

Another, back to me, raised a blade to her neck.

“Move!”

Before landing, I struck the swordsman’s neck.

Tilting to dodge the blood spray, a drop hit my cheek, making me tsk.

“Shitoen!”

The man I struck collapsed toward her, so I kicked him aside, hearing a thud.

Probably on the grass, but no time to check.

Beyond the gushing blood, the man holding her legs drew a dagger, aiming for her back.

Shitoen struggled to escape, but it was too late.

I threw myself over her, her body flattening under me with a thud.

“Saryu-ouji!” she screamed, pain and weight hitting my back.

“…Ngh!”

The man groaned above me.

His dagger seemed stuck in my protector, pinning him. The blade pierced through, nicking my back.

“Saryu! Saryu!” Shitoen writhed beneath me.

“Stay still!”

I forced myself up.

The man stumbled, trying to pull the dagger free.

Shaking like a wet dog, I threw him off.

I kicked him hard.

“Out of the way, Commander!” Raul’s voice came.

I twisted, a sword’s whoosh passing close as Raul charged in. His blade struck the man’s shoulder, blood blooming like a red flower in the dark.

“…Tch,” the man clutched his shoulder and fled.

“Chase him!” Raul ordered the knights.

I shouted, “Don’t make a scene! We’re still in the reception!”

Unsure if they heard, the knights glanced at me, their spurs clinking as they ran off.

Quiet those noisy spurs! I wanted to yell, but turned to Shitoen.

She sat on the ground, stunned but unharmed, no signs of pain. Relieved, I reached for her.

“What now?” Raul asked, shaking blood from his sword and sheathing it, nudging the dead man with his toe.

“Identify him later?”

“A thief sneaking into the reception and nearly killed? That’s a lifelong shame. Hide it. More importantly,” I turned my back to him.

“Pull this out.”

“Ugh, you ruined your clothes. You’ve got guest farewells left.”

“No one’ll notice from the front. It’s my back.”

“Hmm… maybe.”

“A cape! I’ll wear a cape.”

“Great idea!” Raul snapped his fingers, and we laughed.

“Show me your back!” Shitoen screamed.

Startled, Raul and I hugged each other.

She stood defiantly, her dress in tatters from being dragged. The skirt was torn, covered in dirt. The garnet necklace’s survival was a miracle.

“Eek! What about the farewells!?” Raul panicked.

“Another dress! Is there one somewhere!?” I stammered, both of us flailing.

“You’ve been stabbed!? What are you talking about…!? What are you saying, you idiot!!”

…She called me an idiot.

As my shoulders slumped, Raul gave a wry smile and stepped back. Shitoen rushed toward me with incredible speed.

I thought she might hug me, but instead, she darted behind me.

What do I do with my outstretched arms…?

“The protector’s on, so I’m fine,” I said.

Raul gently lowered my idle arms. Good guy.

“Towel!” Shitoen shouted firmly.

Raul shrugged, as if to say, “Don’t have one,” so she tore a strip from her tattered dress to use instead.

She moved behind me, doing something, but all I heard were groans.

“How do I get this out!?”

She was trying to pull out the knife.

“Raul,” I called softly.

He nodded, moving behind me.

By then, the guard knights arrived, watching us in shock.

“Perfect. Form a wall so the venue can’t see this,” I ordered.

A groom with a knife in his back and a bride clinging to it—what kind of cake-cutting is this?

“Saryu-ouji, unbutton your clothes. I’ll pull the knife and stop the bleeding,” Shitoen said.

It’s probably not that deep, right?

I glanced at Raul, who smirked but didn’t argue with her.

“Yes, unbuttoning,” I complied obediently. The protector’s more hassle to remove than the jacket.

“Here we go,” Raul said, as Shitoen braced behind me, ready to press the cloth if blood spurted.

My back shook a few times, then, “Heave-ho,” Raul pulled the knife out.

I shed my jacket.

As I removed my shirt and struggled with the protector, Shitoen stomped impatiently. A few knights, unable to watch, helped, and I was finally bare-chested.

“…Thank goodness,” Shitoen said, sitting on the ground, clutching the torn dress piece, trembling.

“It’s not that bad, right?” I laughed.

She glared, reaching out to smack my leg. “It’s not funny!”

“Yes, sorry.”

“I told you before—stop shielding me!!”

“But what, let you die? That’s impossible. Let the woman I love get killed in front of me and do nothing? I can’t.”

“I’ll protect myself!”

Her desperate shout made the air awkward.

That’s… not realistic.

“Why do you think I can’t do anything!?” she huffed, tears falling from her eyes, her expression fierce.

“Look, the safest place in this kingdom is by the Commander’s side. Why not stay there, protected?” Raul said with a polite smile, only to be silenced by her sharp glare. Impressive—she shut him up with one look.

“So you’ll get hurt for me, like this!? No way!” Her blazing eyes turned to me.

“I’ll handle myself! Promise you won’t do this again!”

“Then you promise me something, Shitoen.”

I crouched to meet her eyes.

“Promise? What?” she asked.

“Learn the self-defense I teach you properly.”

Her face lit up. “Yes, of course!! I’ll learn!”

“But until I say you’re ready, don’t leave my side.”

“…Huh?” She tilted her head, confused.

I pursed my lips. “I don’t know why, but someone’s after your life. They won’t stop easily, and you’ll likely be targeted again. If you can protect yourself, great. But…”

I softened my tone, like speaking to a child.

“Even if I teach you some self-defense, I don’t expect you to master it quickly. These knights trained for years, decades, for their skills. Same with you, right? Did you learn your medical knowledge overnight?”

She shook her head hesitantly.

“So, I’ll teach you self-defense until I’m sure you’re okay alone. Until then, stay within my reach. I can’t relax otherwise. Got it?”

She nodded reluctantly.

“Good. From tomorrow, Shitoen’s a trainee in our knight order—take care of her, everyone!” I stood, calling to the knights forming the wall.

Laughter erupted.

“That’s it!” Raul shouted.

“What?”

“The clothes! You need something for the farewells, but Shitoen-hi has no spare dress—it’s torn.”

I looked at Shitoen again. It was a mess.

“She can wear our knight uniform! She’s an honorary member of our order now, married in!” Raul said.

“I’m in!” I snapped my fingers.

 

◇◇◇◇

 

A few hours later.

Shitoen was in my bedroom.

“What a reception,” I laughed.

Shitoen giggled beside me.

She was in nightwear now, but hours ago, she’d been in a knight uniform.

“Appoint her, Father!”

While Shitoen changed into the knight uniform in a side room, I rushed back to the reception, cornering Father, the king.

“Her dress is ruined, and she’s changing into a knight uniform.”

“…I don’t understand.”

I dragged Father, clutching his head, and Mother, wide-eyed, to a corner of the venue. I explained the attack, our safety, her ruined dress, and how shameful it’d be if guests knew she was targeted.

“The reception’s ending soon, and we need to see guests off, but her dress won’t be ready. Let her wear the knight uniform as a new member of my order, and please knight her.”

Mother, amused, jumped in. “Then I’ll knight Lady Shitoen myself. She’ll be a star of the order!”

…She said something bizarre.

“Sounds fun, Mother,” the crown prince added, making it hopeless.

“Lady Shitoen wishes to use her knowledge in my foolish son’s order,” Mother declared loudly in the venue.

“I’ll knight her now. Will you all bear witness?”

Unanimous applause.

It was chaos after that.

Second Brother scrambled, sweating, to prepare the stage and robes with attendants and butlers.

Shitoen, in the knight uniform, knelt before Mother, who placed a drawn sword on her shoulders to knight her…

The momentum! Mother’s sword swings were too much!

Whoosh, whoosh, striking each shoulder, making Father yelp, “Eek!” and me scream, “Shitoen, don’t move!!”

Mother and the crown prince were delighted, and the guests enjoyed the flashy performance.

“The future of Tidros is bright,” they said as they left… What’s with this spectacle vibe? It’s a reception, right…?

“Did you see Arios afterward?” Shitoen asked, swinging her legs like a child on the bed, looking up at me.

“Nah…”

We stood at the exit for farewells, but with the crowd, I only recognized Vandel.

He waved casually, “See ya, buddy!” and left. He’s gotten annoyingly lively.

“…What was Arios looking at?” I muttered.

Before going for drinks, he’d definitely looked at something.

That glance bothered me.

“What’s wrong?” Shitoen peered up at me.

I smiled. “Nothing.”

She’s safe. I’ll think about it later.

More importantly, we’re in the bedroom.

“I was thinking about what’s next,” I said.

“Next?” She tilted her head cutely.

“About a night alone, uninterrupted,” I whispered, leaning closer.

She sat up, startled.

Following her movement, I grabbed her shoulders, pinning her to the bed.

Her wide eyes caught the room’s light, shimmering with an enchanting hue.

I gazed into them, so close our noses nearly touched, until she shyly turned away.

That was my cue. I kissed her.

She wrapped her arms around my back, letting out a soft “Ah.”

Muffled by my lips, the sound sent a strange vibration through me.

“What?”

“Your back. Doesn’t it hurt?”

“It doesn’t.”

I laughed, untying the string at her collar.

Slipping my hand inside, I felt her soft, warm skin. My fingers grazed her curve, and she let out a melting moan.

Pulling her collar open, I saw the dragon tattoo on her chest.

It felt sacred, yet adorable.

Before I knew it, I kissed the tattoo.

“Saryu,” she called, hugging my head. “Saryu, I love you.”

Her words set my blood ablaze.

Heat surged through me, like being thrown into battle.

No alcohol, yet I felt drunk. Each kiss, each breath we shared, swayed me with joy.

Having her in my arms felt like a dream.

Soft, sweet, lithe—more beautiful and noble than any beast I’d faced in the border mountains, my beloved Shitoen.

Sometimes, I feared I’d break her delicate frame, but she entrusted herself to me, clinging, moaning sweetly.

My memory blurred halfway through. I was that lost in her.

Shitoen seemed pained at first, our first deep connection, but soon she sighed softly, her voice wet with emotion.

We melted together.

Dissolving into a sweet, endless night.