Right now, I’m on the verge of throwing up from nervousness and anxiety as I face the biggest event of my life. I never realized that marriage could have such a profound impact on both body and mind. I have to admit that I underestimated it to some extent. Currently, it’s my wedding day, and I’ve just finished with the costume fitting and preparations. Dressed in my groom’s attire, I sit motionless in a chair. My hands, resting on my knees, feel clammy with sweat. Nervousness and anxiety – these two emotions are causing cold sweat to flow endlessly from my body. Confined to the preparation room, I begin to ponder how I ended up in this situation.
It all started a week ago.
“By the way, Gungrave, when are we setting the date for that day?” “…? That day? What do you mean by ‘that day’?”
I had just finished work and was eating Shuri’s food in the dining hall. It was around noon, and there was already no one else around. It was quite a late lunch. As I was eating Shuri’s cooking, Shuri, who was clearing the plates, asked me this question.
“Huh? I thought that day was coming up soon… Is your schedule not set? Or is there another reason?” “Wait, wait, what do you mean by ‘that day’ in the first place? Have you guys decided on some event without my knowledge?”
I tilted my head and asked Shuri, but… Shuri had a look of shock on his face. It was as if he hadn’t expected this at all, like it was completely out of the realm of possibility. It’s like he’s incredibly surprised that I’ve forgotten about it. I start to think harder. If Shuri is going out of his way to ask me about it, it must be a really important event. I can see from Shuri’s expression that it’s something I absolutely shouldn’t forget. However, I keep saying this, but I have no idea what he’s talking about. An event so important that Shuri would go out of his way to ask me about it… What was it again? Was there something? As I was thinking about this, Shuri calmly put down the plates he was holding on the table and placed his hand on my shoulder.
“Gungrave.” “W-What is it?” “Even I have to say that forgetting this is unacceptable. I feel so sorry for Arius.” “What? Arius is involved in this too?”
In response to my question, Shuri dramatically leaned back and moved away. What’s he trying to do? Shuri often does incomprehensible things, but this time it seems I’m clearly at fault. Having calmed down, Shuri gave me an exasperated look.
“Gungrave. Do you remember your promise with Arius?” “Promise? … What could it be… Did I make a promise for a date or something?” “Gaaah!!”
Shuri finally lost his patience and made a face like he couldn’t take it anymore.
“Gungrave, don’t you remember promising to marry Arius once you obtained a territory and secured a place to settle down?!”
… Ah!! That’s right, I did make such a promise! When Shuri made yudofu for me for the first time, and Arius and I confessed our feelings to each other, I certainly said that. And then after the incident in Arturia, I officially made Arius my fiancée, which brings us to now. I finally understood. That’s right, that’s right, I had completely forgotten about it, caught up in the busyness of daily life… I’ve done Arius wrong…
“Ah, I finally remembered. …I’ve done Arius wrong.” “Now that you understand, don’t you think it’s a good time to do it, now that the big baggage is being cleared up?”
Shuri tells me with his arms crossed. Indeed, now would be a good time to do it. Now that things have settled down with Tevis, Lenha, and Anby, it’s the perfect time to get married. Just as Shuri says. I’ve finally obtained a territory, albeit through questionable means. I’ve secured a place to settle down. There’s nothing left to prevent my marriage to Arius.
“You’re right… Originally, it was just me, a mercenary, and Arius getting married. We should do it modestly, just with our close associates.” “Huh?” “Huh? Is there a problem with that?”
Did I say something strange? I don’t get it. I thought about it, but I couldn’t find anything wrong with what I said… But Shuri gives me another exasperated look.
“Gungrave. You’re a lord now.” “That’s right. I’ve obtained a territory and become a lord. Though the means were questionable.” “Let’s not touch on the means right now, it’s complicated. That’s not the point. The point is, there’s no way a lord and his fiancée can have a modest wedding, right?” “…Well, I suppose you’re right.”
Shuri’s words make sense. I understand that a wedding between a lord and his wife is quite a grand and busy affair, from preparations onwards. And now I’m a lord. Arius will become my wife. It’s strange to have a wedding with just our mercenary group comrades. Sometimes, a lord’s wedding even involves grand parades and festivals in town. It gets even bigger for royal weddings. Considering Sounité’s territory and economic situation, it would be proper to have a fairly large wedding. Even if we don’t have parades or festivals, at least a reception in the castle. But still. I was the commander of a mercenary group, you know?
“Shuri, I get what you’re saying, but… think about it carefully. I was the commander of a mercenary group, right? Even if we were to have a reception, we only have our comrades to invite. That’s not much of a reception. At best, it would be like a family gathering, wouldn’t it?”
I try to explain this to Shuri, but… after thinking for a moment, Shuri opens his mouth.
“Even so, Princess Tevis is currently in this castle. Can you really say, ‘We’re having a family-only wedding, so please go somewhere else’?”
Oh, that’s right. Now we have Princess Tevis of Nouviche here. I’m not sure if we’re on good terms… but with royalty in the castle, we can’t just ignore them and have a wedding. In fact, we’d have to bow our heads and request her attendance. Considering the size of our country, that’s the proper thing to do. I realized this and turned pale, but Shuri continued.
“Besides, even though the lord isn’t from the original family anymore, if you do this without contacting the powerful clans that have long been associated with this territory, there will be a lot of discontent. Now that you’ve obtained a country, don’t you think you need to learn how to be considerate of powerful clans? I don’t really know, though.”
Damn. I forgot about that angle too. This Sounité has countries, powerful clans, and influential merchants that it has long been associated with. If we have a wedding without any consideration for them, we’ll definitely be unpopular. Well, when I said I was becoming the lord, it’s inevitable that ties with them will be cut off, but if we don’t at least show the gesture of inviting them, it’s obvious that we’ll not only be unpopular but even incur their anger. Shuri’s words are so on point that I hang my head. Why didn’t I think of that possibility… I sigh, feeling pathetic about myself.
“You’re absolutely right. I’ve been completely focused on taking over this territory. I regret it.” “Regret is a good thing. It means you won’t repeat the same mistake. So? When will you set the date for the wedding?”
Let’s see… Shuri asked with his arms crossed, so I decided to think about it again. However, I realized the biggest obstacle and blushed bright red with embarrassment.
“Hey, Shuri” “What is it?” “Having a wedding means we have to tell Arius about it, right?” “Of course. There’s no such thing as a wedding for one person in this world. That wouldn’t be called a wedding.” “Who’s going to tell her?” “It has to be you, Gungrave. Huh? Please don’t say anything cowardly here.”
Shuri warns me with a disgusted look, but… even I’m not going to say anything cowardly, you know.
“Obviously, it wouldn’t be right for someone else to say it… even I understand that much.” “Then that’s good.” “Why are you talking down to me all of a sudden?”
Maybe this guy has already… no, that’s not possible. This guy, of all people, definitely hasn’t been married before. He definitely hasn’t even had a lover before. How do I know? I understand Shuri’s personality from our long association. This guy is so oblivious that he doesn’t even notice when someone of the opposite sex shows interest in him.
“From above? No… It’s just that because you’re being so indecisive, you’ve come down to my level. Please pull yourself together, you’re about to become a married man.” “Ugh… sorry.” “So? When are you going to do it?”
When… Now that he’s asking again, I’m not sure when to do it. After all, I need to talk to Arius first. In other words, it’s a full-on marriage proposal. There’s no more nerve-wracking scene for a man. It requires once-in-a-lifetime courage. It’s different from the courage on the battlefield; it’s a test of a man’s pride. Of course, sooner is better. I’ve kept Arius waiting for too long. I want to finally put her at ease. I want to make her happy. For that, I need to muster up my courage, but… damn, usually my mind becomes sharp quickly, but right now my thoughts are incredibly dull. My heart is pounding. I’m getting nervous.
“Hey Shuri, um…” “Oh, hello Arius.” “Hello, Shuri. May I have a drink?”
Huh? Eeh?! W-Why is Arius here…?! By some coincidence, Arius came to the dining hall and is talking about something with Shuri. What kind of coincidence is this, the person I was thinking about appears when I’m considering marriage! I suddenly stiffen with nervousness. Rather than turning red with embarrassment, I feel like I’m turning blue with tension. In the end, Arius asked Shuri for some kind of favor. Shuri accepted and returned to the kitchen. Only Arius and I are left in the dining hall. The midday sunlight streaming into the dining hall makes Arius look even more beautiful. Now that I’m conscious of marriage, Arius’s womanly charms stand out even more, making it even harder to bring up the topic.
“Gungrave” “Heeh? Ah, ahem, what is it?” “What’s wrong? Is something…” “N-Nothing at all!”
Oh no, oh no, I let out a strange voice due to nervousness…! What are you flustering about, Gungrave, pull yourself together!
I straighten myself up and say to Arius.
“Since you’re here, why don’t you join me? I’ve already finished my lunch, but…” “Yes, I’d love to.”
Saying that, Arius sat down in the seat next to me. Now, when it comes to actually saying it… it’s incredibly nerve-wracking.
“Gungrave” “Hm? What is it?” “We haven’t had much time for each other lately, have we? We’ve both been so busy.” “Oh, yeah. That’s true.”
It certainly is. I’ve been busy with my work as a lord. Arius has been busy with her work training and educating the next generation of magicians. Or rather, we’ve been busy and risking our lives since our mercenary days. Even so, we used to make time for each other and have these moments together. But lately, look at us. I’ve been so caught up in the busyness of work that I haven’t been able to give Arius the attention she deserves. I need to reflect on this.
“I’m… sorry about that. I won’t make excuses about not having time or being busy… I’m truly sorry.”
I bow my head in apology.
“Ah, no! I’m not blaming you at all. I was just feeling a bit lonely… Just being able to spend time like this today makes me happy.”
Arius hurriedly tried to reassure me. Damn, I made Arius worry about me… Originally, I should have been the one to make time and be with Arius. Arius understands too. She knows how difficult it is to take over the work of a lord and run a country. That’s why Arius didn’t try to force meetings with me. That’s why I should have quickly learned my duties as a lord and made time to spare…
“I appreciate you saying that. How about you? Is the training of the magicians going well?” “Yes. Those children are working hard too. However, it seems quite challenging for them to spread Shuri’s teachings…”
Currently, Arius is focusing on discovering and nurturing new magicians. I’m not sure why Shuri can give advice on magic to magicians, but I don’t delve too deeply into it. It was the same with Kuuga and Lill, and I think even if I had several lifetimes, it wouldn’t be enough to understand all of Shuri’s mysteries.
“Even so, by changing their mindset about using magic, the principles, and how to use magical power, their skills have improved considerably. It’s a delightful thing.” “I see, that’s good.”
I smile along with Arius, but internally I’m in turmoil. This isn’t right, Gungrave. The conversation shouldn’t just be about recent events. You’re supposed to be talking about the wedding. What are you doing, having such a cordial chat? Alright, I’ve made up my mind. I’m going to say it.
“Arius!” “What is it?”
…Huh? Arius has a solemn look on her face…? Why…? Well, never mind, that’s fine!
“I’ve obtained a territory, haven’t I?” “Yes, you have.” “I’ve become a lord, right?” “Yes, you have.” “So, I think it’s time to fulfill the promise we made long ago.” “I was thinking of saying the same thing.”
…Oh, so that’s what it was! Could it be that Arius came here to say this? Is that why she has such a solemn look on her face? To think I’d end up making the woman ask about the promise… I’m truly pathetic. Is this how a man should act, Gungrave?! But that ends now. I’ve made up my mind. I turn to face Arius with a determined look. This time, I look straight into Arius’s face, not averting my gaze. I’m going to say it, me. Say it, me!
“I know it’s too late for me to say this properly now.” “That’s right.” “But, please let me say it. Please accept it.” “…Yes.”
I take a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart a little. However, my heart continues to beat like a rapid drumroll, showing no signs of settling down. My body is heating up, and I feel like I might black out from the tension. But, my mouth moves.
“Will you… marry me? Let’s have our wedding ceremony.”
I said it! I said it, me! I’ve reached my limit, and I can’t help but avert my gaze from Arius, looking down. How about it, how is it, Arius…! There’s no response from Arius, and I can’t see any movement. Since I can’t look at her face, I don’t even know what expression she’s making. Time seems to flow incredibly slowly, feeling like an eternity. It feels like time has stopped in this world at this very moment. However, it ended abruptly. Arius gently placed her hand on mine. It’s a bit cold. A pleasant body temperature is transmitted through her hand. When I look up… there’s Arius’s face, smiling with tears in her eyes.
“Is someone like me really good enough?” “Of course. It has to be you, no one else but Arius. I want to marry Arius.” “I feel the same way. It has to be Gungrave. Please take responsibility. I don’t want anyone but you.” “I’ll take responsibility. I’ll cherish you for life.” “Yes… Even though I’m like this, please take care of me.”
Great, she’s accepted-
“Tada! Congratulations!”
“How wonderful! Truly wonderful!”
“It’s time for a feast!”
“…Congratulations!”
Just as I thought that, Shuri, Kuuga, Tegue, and Lill burst through the dining hall door with great momentum! And they’re all wearing big smiles as they invade! Lill is accompanying the crying Arius, talking about something. The problem is the remaining men. They’re all smiling. Huge smiles. They’re grinning. Still smiling, they surround me and beam down at me…! What’s with these guys!
“Congratulations, Gungrave!” “How manly. Truly a manly proposal.” “Isn’t it nice? So lovey-dovey.”
T-These guys…!
“Yes, that’s right! I proposed marriage! She accepted! What’s wrong with that?!”
So I snapped back, biting back as hard as I could. Yeah, what’s wrong with being straightforward! But when I said that… everyone’s grins changed to their usual smiles.
“Finally. It’s been a long time coming. Congratulations, Gungrave. It was a clear, manly proposal.” “That’s right. If you had started rambling on and on there, even I would have gotten angry and interrupted.” “Even I don’t feel a hint of jealousy. I can honestly say ‘congratulations’ with a pure heart.”
What? Suddenly these guys are genuinely congratulating me? What’s going on?
First of all, why are these guys here? I understand why Shuri is here, but… I have questions about how he moved from the kitchen to the dining hall entrance so quickly, but let’s put that aside for now. Why are Kuuga, Tegue, and Lill here? How did they know I was going to propose? The timing is too perfect…! Seeing my confused face, Shuri tapped my shoulder with a wry smile.
“Gungrave… Actually, I received a consultation from Arius before. A week ago.”
“Huh?”
Shuri did? He received a consultation from Arius a week ago? What’s going on?
“Well, you see, Arius was worried. You’ve obtained a territory, become a lord. The conditions of the promise have been met, but there was no word from you. Not even a hint. She was wondering how you felt about her.” “Huh?” “So I told her, ‘He’s just forgotten because he’s busy.’“
Ugh, I can’t argue back because it’s true…! While I’ve been making Arius worry so much, I’ve been caught up in the fulfillment and busyness of work, neglecting her…!
“I told Arius, ‘Why don’t you make a move?’ But Arius insisted on trying to subtly hint at it for a week to make you notice. Even though I told her it was absolutely impossible.”
Those words felt like a sharp blade piercing my heart. I clutched my chest in pain. I can’t say anything back because it’s the truth and reality. Oh, so that’s why Arius has been appearing in my line of sight so often this past week! She’s been acting strangely, trying to enter my field of vision at every opportunity, but that was the reason… It’s both touching and completely off the mark!
“So, after the one-week deadline passed, I said I would take action to make Gungrave notice, which led to today’s events.”
I see. So that’s why Shuri started this conversation at that time. I didn’t know there was such a backstory. Shuri, in his own way, was trying to help our relationship… I can only feel grateful. I made him worry unnecessarily.
“I see… I’m sorry, it’s my fault.” “If you’re reflecting on it, make sure you properly respond to Arius’s feelings, okay?” “I got it, I understand.”
Of course I do. Now that everything has been set up like this, I’ll make sure to fulfill my responsibility. I answered with a determined look on my face. …Wait? There’s still something else, isn’t there?
“Why do Tegue and Kuuga know about this? I understand Arius consulting Shuri, and I can see why Lill knows the situation as a fellow woman who might have heard her complaints. But why do Tegue and Kuuga know? Was Arius so troubled that she consulted even these guys?”
If that were the case, it would be my fault, but… that’s not it, right? Shuri’s eyes have been darting around since earlier, so that can’t be it, right? When I asked this, Kuuga was trying to hold back his laughter with his hand over his mouth.
“Kukukuku…! Well, you see, Gungrave, Shuri is quite easy to read, you know? It was obvious that he was hiding something.” “So Kuuga and I cornered him and made him spill the beans.”
What?! Even Tegue is laughing, which means… Shuri, you!
“That’s definitely not okay!” “I’m sorry, they were so insistent, and I thought they might be able to help come up with a plan…”
Shuri bows his head in apology, but honestly, I have mixed feelings. Anger at involving Tegue and Kuuga, and sympathy for the situation that forced him to involve them. It’s all my responsibility…
“No, um… This all happened because I was so inadequate… I’m the one who should be sorry.” “That’s right… Think about it, even in this situation, no one else is coming. If we hadn’t blocked it off, all your subordinates would have rushed in here by now, and there would have been no time for mental preparation. The situation could have turned bad.”
…Huh? Eh? …Oh, I see! Tegue and Kuuga made sure no one else would come here. That’s why even in this situation, no one else is coming… They made it possible for Arius and me to calmly consider marriage…
“I see… Sorry, Kuuga.” “It’s fine. We’ve done what we needed to do, and the goal has been achieved.” “I also asked my subordinates to make sure no one comes here. If this is the result without any interruptions, I’m satisfied.” “Thank you, Tegue.” “Hehe, this much is a piece of cake.”
Tegue said, scratching his nose bashfully. So with everyone’s involvement, I finally achieved this result… I still have a long way to go. No, I’m just an immature fool. I’m an idiot. To think I needed everyone’s help just to propose to the one I love…
“Well, um. Thanks, everyone.”
I thanked them again.
“You’re welcome.” “You’re really a handful, you know.” “All’s well that ends well!”
It was at that moment.
“I’ve heard everything!”
The dining hall door burst open, and two women entered. One is the usual expressionless maid, Eutine… but she looks incredibly tired… why? And the other is the usual princess.
“Leave the rest to me.”
It was Princess Tevis, pointing at herself with her thumb, trying to look cool. Wait, why did she come here? Looking at Tegue and Kuuga, they seem genuinely surprised. Apparently, Princess Tevis’s appearance here was truly unexpected. And since Shuri, Lill, and Arius are also surprised, it doesn’t seem like the information leaked from here. Why is she here? And what does she mean by “I’ve heard everything”… Who told her about me and Arius? And how did she sneak in here when it’s supposed to be blocked off?
“Leave it to you… What do you mean, Princess? Why are you here? And who did you hear this from?”
Shuri asked on my behalf the questions I had in mind. Princess Tevis then answered with a mischievous smile.
“Fufufufufu. Don’t underestimate my eyes and ears. My subordinates are not so incompetent as to miss or overlook such an interesting- ahem, such an important event!”
This girl just now, she was about to say interesting…
“So, what do you mean by ‘leave it to you’?” “It’s obvious, Shuri. A lord welcoming a wife is a major event in the territory. Normally, it would be important to trace connections and inform neighboring countries about this. It greatly affects diplomacy, you know. However! You two originally have unknown backgrounds! So, I’ll arrange suitable people to celebrate with you.”
Princess Tevis declared with a triumphant look, but… isn’t that unnecessary…?
“But Princess Tevis. We were planning to have a modest wedding with just our close associates. I think having strangers come to celebrate would just be stiff and tiring…”
Arius says this, but internally, I feel somewhat relieved. As Shuri mentioned earlier, a wedding between a lord and his fiancée is never a small affair. Even if I invited them, the influential people in the territory probably wouldn’t come, but if Princess Tevis calls them, they’d have no choice but to attend. It would at least maintain appearances. However, Princess Tevis’s next words made me realize how naive my understanding was.
“Arius, as I said before, marriage affects diplomacy. A new lord appearing, and who his lady is. Whether this is known to the surroundings or not completely changes how others will treat you. Some might see you as an eyesore. They might want to see what kind of man obtained the territory, by what means. They’ll want to know who his lady is too. You can smoke out such people. Conversely, some might be interested in whether the talented young man who newly obtained a territory has a wife. Some might want to entangle you or place you under them through marriage politics. Do you understand? This is necessary to determine who your enemies are, who your allies are.”
I couldn’t help but be surprised by the lengthy explanation. It was only after Princess Tevis pointed it out that I finally understood the importance beyond just being congratulated. A debut… that was also a purpose. Indeed, now that she mentions it, that’s true. I’ve obtained a territory, however crooked the means. And I’ve made enemies too. We can’t end this with just our close associates without taking the opportunity to identify those enemies. That won’t do. From now on, I’ll have many things to protect. To protect them, I need to judge who to fight and who to face…
Before I could finish my sentence, Arius said with a smile.
“Our wedding is no longer just about us. Besides, since we’re having one, why not make it a grand celebration?”
Arius… Is that really okay? Is that really alright with you? To be honest, I was conflicted. I really wanted to make our wedding exactly as Arius hoped it would be. After making her suffer and wait for so long, I wanted to give Arius a happy wedding experience. That’s what I thought. But Arius has allowed our wedding to be used for politics. Or rather, she had no choice but to allow it. Arius will now become the wife of a lord. That means, whether she likes it or not, she’ll be involved in politics. She’ll increasingly find herself in situations where it’s necessary. Part of me wants to keep her away from that reality and work as much as possible. I want her to only have happy feelings. I want her to live only a happy life. But I can’t. I’m… such a pathetic guy. I can’t even perfectly protect the one person I love.
“That’s right, that’s right. It’s about time you realized that you’ve obtained a territory. From now on, you’re not just the commander of a mercenary group.”
Not just the commander of a mercenary group. Those words were incredibly heavy. The era of roaming the continent as a free fighting force is over. From now on, as a defensive and offensive force, we’ll need even more order and discipline than in our mercenary days.
“…I understand. Princess Tevis, may I ask for your help?”
I took a humble attitude and bowed my head. Seeing this attitude, I could sense the surprise from those around me. Of course, a lord bowing his head to another country. That means acknowledging that our country is inferior to the other. It can’t be helped since it’s the truth. I looked into it and understood. Sounité was indeed wealthier than the surrounding territories, with Gyngus and Aeclys managing it well despite their disagreements. But Nouviche. When I investigated and actually saw the difference in class with Nouviche, I was overwhelmed. I learned anew how vast a territory, how enormous a fortune, how huge a scale of troops this little girl in front of me has maintained and developed. The class is different. The rank is different. To become equal with this opponent, to one day claim hegemony over this continent, I need to bow my head where I can. It’s a necessary tactic for survival.
“…Very well. I, Tevis Nouviche, for the sake of my friend Shuri, will arrange the wedding guests for you two.”
In response, perhaps understanding my intention, Princess Tevis agrees with a haughty attitude. The meaning I conveyed was, “We’re bowing our heads and acknowledging you as superior, so play along. If you want to repay the favors and gratitude for Shuri’s cooking, go along with it. As the superior party, you’ll tell the surroundings that Sounité and Nouviche have a good relationship, right?”
What Princess Tevis conveyed in her response was, “I accept, you detestable fellow. I’ll do as you say. But remember, you’re still inferior. And I’m doing this for Shuri, not for you, so don’t get cocky.”
Even at this point, there’s considerable tension, but it can’t be helped. We’re actually inferior after all.
“Thank you very much.”
I respond with an appropriately humble attitude. Perhaps sensing this subtle tension, the people around us are watching silently. There are probably some who want to interject, but I’m grateful they’re keeping quiet. If there were any strange interruptions here, it would disrupt this charade.
“Well then! Now that it’s decided, let’s talk about the wedding!”
And yet… this guy Shuri…! What is he planning to say with that huge smile…!
“Princess Tevis. There are some ingredients I’d like transported via Nouviche.” “Oh? What’s that? A new creation?” “I was thinking of serving something delicious and auspicious to everyone.” “That’s great! I can trust Shuri’s cooking! By all means, let’s prepare it! So, what do we need to prepare?”
Princess Tevis and Shuri are enthusiastically discussing something. What are these guys planning to do at our wedding…?
“…That’s the kind of ingredients, do you have them?” “Hmm… I’ve eaten something similar, so procuring them shouldn’t be a problem.” “Oh, then you might have tasted my cooking before too.” “Even so, I believe Shuri will present something two or three levels above that! Well then, I shall go to do what needs to be done! Farewell!!”
In the end, Princess Tevis said what she wanted to say and left. I’m not sure if she wanted to give advice or if she came to mooch off Shuri’s cooking under the pretext of the wedding. The remaining Shuri, with a huge smile on his face, places his hands on both my shoulders while making strange movements. I have a bad feeling about this. My instincts are telling me to run away.
“Gungrave. Are you okay with things as they are?” “Pardon?”
What are you trying to say? This huge smile. I have a really bad feeling about this!
“…Ah! Shuri, you’re not planning to do that thing you mentioned before, are you?!” “Are you really going to do that…? Are you serious about doing that?!”
Huh? What? Tegue and Kuuga know about this? Is it something so surprising that they’re going to do? What is this guy planning to say? By the way, looking at Lill, she seems to be staring into space, perhaps feeling hungry. This guy is gradually turning into a mysterious character… Is she okay?
“Don’t you want to make your wedding with Arius special?” “Huh? Special? You mean memorable?” “Let’s make it go down in the records too, shall we?”
Re-cords?
“First, you’ll make a vow to God. That you’ll love each other eternally.” “…What?”
A vow to God, you say?
“You’ll vow to God that you’ll love Arius eternally… is that what you’re saying?” “Yes. You can do that, right?” “…Are you really telling me to do this?” “You can. Right?”
I look at Arius with a troubled face, but… Arius is just blushing with her hands on her cheeks, muttering something…
“T-To God… that we love each other… that we’re in love… i-it’s wonderful…”
It’s no use… has she turned into a dreamy woman?!
“Furthermore, you’ll exchange rings in front of everyone. You’ll give each other wedding rings on your left ring fingers. This will announce to everyone that you have a wife, or he has a husband.” “Huh? Rings… you say?” “Of course, luxurious ones with jewels and silver decorations.” “You’re telling me to make such an expensive purchase?!”
I look at Arius, but,
“It’s wonderful… a symbol of our marriage… And to receive such a beautiful thing from Gungrave… I should prepare something equally special… What would be good…”
She has the face of a girl in love, so she’s no help.
“And then,” “There’s more?!” “You’ll share a kiss of vow in front of everyone. A kiss, a kiss. In front of everyone at the venue. You’ll show everyone and God that she’s yours, and you’re hers.”
…I was at a loss for words. What is this guy saying? I couldn’t even comprehend the entity in front of me anymore. It just looks like a lump of meat speaking words. Of all things, he’s telling us to kiss in public. To mark Arius as mine in front of a crowd of people. How could I possibly do that?!!
“There’s no way I could do something like that!! What kind of crazy thing are you saying?!” “It’s normal in my country, though.”
I’ll never go to that country. Not even if it kills me. However, contrary to my thoughts, Arius said to me with a beaming smile.
“Isn’t it wonderful, Gungrave? Let’s definitely do it.” “Are you serious?!”
Is she blinded by the romanticism?
“Yes, of course. I’m yours, and you’re mine. I won’t give you to anyone else, not at all!” “What’s gotten into you?” “I don’t know…”
Seeing Arius continue to go off the rails, I’m terrified. Even Kuuga next to me is taken aback. Of course he is.
“Well then, that’s how it’ll go,”
At this point, Shuri clapped his hands.
“…Huh? Seriously?” “Seriously. Let’s go with this, Gungrave!” “W-Wait, please, have mercy…!”
However, my pleas were in vain, and it was decided that we would have the wedding as Shuri proposed.
And that brings us to the present. Since Shuri and Princess Tevis took care of almost all the preparations, the only thing I did was spread the word. In other words, public relations. I don’t know how the townspeople feel about it, but honestly, I have some concerns. That’s why I’m sitting in the preparation room, holding my head in my hands, feeling gloomy. I’m officially becoming the lord of this territory and taking Arius as my wife. And from now on, I want to work tirelessly to improve our reputation and eventually create the peaceful country I’ve dreamed of. That’s fine. That’s all fine. But as the day approaches, anxiety rears its head in my mind. There’s an unpleasant feeling like a snake coiling around my neck. Am I really worthy of Arius? Arius is beautiful, she’s talented. In another world, she could have surely married into nobility. No, it’s entirely possible even in this world. And yet, look at this. She’s devoted to me, and now she’s about to become my wife. Couldn’t she have found a better man than me? Can I really make Arius happy? Such anxieties smolder in the depths of my chest. With just a little spark, they could turn into a raging fire.
“Everyone’s waiting~ Are you not feeling well~?”
It was then that I heard a voice from outside the preparation room. I was startled for a moment, almost jumping up. In my mind, I had thought no one would come here. Suddenly, I realized that quite some time had passed since I locked myself in this preparation room like a siege. It seems the situation of me staying frozen here is no longer acceptable. Or perhaps someone, sensing a crisis in my continued seclusion in the preparation room, brought Shuri here. Come to think of it, someone had been calling for me from outside for a while. That voice was… thinking back, it was Kuuga’s voice. I see, so Kuuga brought Shuri here. I finally realized this, but at the same time, I remembered the anxiety in my chest. Can I really make Arius happy, given how immature I still am? I want at least a little more time to sort things out.
“Ah, no, wait. I need to think about something.” “Screw this. Kuuga, if you please.” “Alright.”
Huh? Before I could even process what was happening, the door suddenly flew off its hinges. The hinges, the lock, everything broke as the door soared through the air to the corner of the room, crashing into the wall and breaking. I have no idea what just happened. I ask for a moment, and the door breaks? Looking again, I see Shuri entering the room with a terrifying aura. Kuuga is with him too. Apparently, Kuuga kicked the door down. What are they thinking?
“W-what are you guys doing?!” “Gungrave. I heard… that you’re anxious about the future, that you’re worrying about various things.”
Completely ignoring my question, Shuri’s words make me catch my breath. Why does Shuri know about this? …Maybe I could open up to Shuri. I don’t know why I think this or where this thought comes from. But… yeah. It’s probably because of my trust in Shuri built up over time. This guy has always helped me when I’ve been troubled like this. So, I decided to talk.
“Y-Yeah… I can’t help but think about various things. She’s as beautiful as she looks, and she’s talented. If she marries me now, it’s obvious she’ll face hardships.”
In the end, that’s what it comes down to. I want Arius, who has loved me since we were children, to be happy. Because I love Arius too.
“If anything, it might be better if she joined a magic unit in a large country and caught the eye of some royalty… that way she’d be happy…” “You big idiot!!!”
Shuri suddenly kicked a nearby table while shouting at the top of his lungs. The chair didn’t move much because it was heavy, but… please stop, don’t destroy any more of the room’s furnishings.
“Listen up, Gungrave. I’ll only say this once.” “H-hey Shuri, you’re being too rough…” “Shut up. I’m going to say it.”
Faced with Shuri’s rage, which I’ve never seen before, I was simply intimidated. No, that’s not right. I’ve seen this before. When Arius was almost taken away by that idiot prince in Arturia, and Shuri prevented it. And when we left Arturia, Shuri punched me. He yelled at me, asking how I could fail to protect the one I love. With that rebuke included. He’s making the same face now. He brought that same face close to mine and said
“Arius chose to be with you, even in times of hardship and pain. That’s what makes her happy. She chose you because she believes that overcoming hardships and pain together with you is what will make her happy. How can you get anxious now? The you I know is stronger than this. Please don’t say such pathetic things as a man who’s about to carry the lives of his people, saying he can’t carry the life of one woman he loves.”
In times of hardship, in times of happiness. Those words felt like a divine revelation to me. That’s right, that’s absolutely right, Shuri. If Arius hated it, she would have left this place long ago. And she would have ended up with someone else. The reason Arius didn’t do that is because, though it might sound arrogant, she loved me that much. We’ve risked our lives together, crossed many dangerous bridges. Even when faced with countless, hundreds of dangers, Arius stayed with me. So what? If I’m thinking about happiness and suitable partners now… I should have broken up with Arius long ago if that was the case. That’s right. If she’s willing to stay with me this far, I’ll take responsibility. If she gives me love, I’ll return that love. The black flame of anxiety smoldering in my heart is extinguished. Instead, what flares up is a bright red flame. A flame of vow to protect Arius and make her happy.
“Well then, Gungrave. Please live your future properly with the person you love.” “H-hey, Shuri.”
Saying this, Shuri tries to leave the room in a hurry.
“I still have places to go. Arius must be eagerly awaiting this day too. There’s no time to dawdle. …I’m sorry, but I need to hurry. Kuuga, can I leave the rest to you?” “Yeah, leave it to me.” “Then I’ll leave it in your hands.”
After speaking rapidly, Shuri left the room. He flew out like an arrow released from a bow through the broken door, but…
“Good grief. Shuri’s busy too, you know.” “…Yeah. I caused unnecessary worry.” “From your words, I gather you’re not worried anymore?”
I stand up from the chair and look straight at Kuuga.
“I’ve made up my mind.” “You’re late. You should have done that when this talk came up, or rather, when you got engaged to Arius.”
Ugh! T-That’s right… Kuuga is right…
“Getting all wishy-washy over a woman isn’t manly at all. You should decide quickly and act decisively. Look at women. They’re much more clear-cut. They switch gears faster than men. You should learn from that and stop being so indecisive, Gungrave.” “I don’t want to hear that from someone who won’t settle down with one woman.” “What are you saying?”
Kuuga puffed out his chest and said.
“Women won’t leave me alone.” “May you be stabbed in the back.”
This guy really…! Just because he has a good face, he’s getting cocky…!
“Well then, let’s go, Gungrave.” “? Where to?” “Are you an idiot?! The envoys have arrived, so we need to go greet them! That’s why even Shuri was called to try and drag you out!” “What? Envoys? The envoys are already here?!”
I had forgotten, I need to go greet them or it would be disrespectful!
“I got it, I’ll go right away. What about Arius?”
When I asked Kuuga, he made an awkward face. Hm? What’s wrong, what happened?
“Ah, well… she’s holed up too.” “What? Arius is?” “In a similar way to you, and Shuri is… Hey! Gungrave?!”
I didn’t wait for Kuuga to finish speaking before I dashed out of the room. Although the wedding attire is unfamiliar, it doesn’t hinder running. No, even if it did, I would still run. A little discomfort doesn’t matter. Arius is holed up. Just like me. It’s my fault. Because I didn’t clearly show my attitude, I made her anxious. How could I not have realized this! Of course Arius would have worries, just like I did! How could I only think about myself! Wait for me, Arius. I’ll dispel all your anxieties!
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Chapter 51
Right now, I’m on the verge of throwing up from nervousness and anxiety as I face the biggest event of my life.
I never realized that marriage could have such a profound impact on both body and mind. I have to admit that I underestimated it to some extent.
Currently, it’s my wedding day, and I’ve just finished with the costume fitting and preparations. Dressed in my groom’s attire, I sit motionless in a chair.
My hands, resting on my knees, feel clammy with sweat. Nervousness and anxiety – these two emotions are causing cold sweat to flow endlessly from my body.
Confined to the preparation room, I begin to ponder how I ended up in this situation.
It all started a week ago.
“By the way, Gungrave, when are we setting the date for that day?”
“…? That day? What do you mean by ‘that day’?”
I had just finished work and was eating Shuri’s food in the dining hall. It was around noon, and there was already no one else around. It was quite a late lunch.
As I was eating Shuri’s cooking, Shuri, who was clearing the plates, asked me this question.
“Huh? I thought that day was coming up soon… Is your schedule not set? Or is there another reason?”
“Wait, wait, what do you mean by ‘that day’ in the first place? Have you guys decided on some event without my knowledge?”
I tilted my head and asked Shuri, but… Shuri had a look of shock on his face. It was as if he hadn’t expected this at all, like it was completely out of the realm of possibility.
It’s like he’s incredibly surprised that I’ve forgotten about it. I start to think harder.
If Shuri is going out of his way to ask me about it, it must be a really important event. I can see from Shuri’s expression that it’s something I absolutely shouldn’t forget.
However, I keep saying this, but I have no idea what he’s talking about. An event so important that Shuri would go out of his way to ask me about it… What was it again? Was there something?
As I was thinking about this, Shuri calmly put down the plates he was holding on the table and placed his hand on my shoulder.
“Gungrave.”
“W-What is it?”
“Even I have to say that forgetting this is unacceptable. I feel so sorry for Arius.”
“What? Arius is involved in this too?”
In response to my question, Shuri dramatically leaned back and moved away. What’s he trying to do?
Shuri often does incomprehensible things, but this time it seems I’m clearly at fault.
Having calmed down, Shuri gave me an exasperated look.
“Gungrave. Do you remember your promise with Arius?”
“Promise? … What could it be… Did I make a promise for a date or something?”
“Gaaah!!”
Shuri finally lost his patience and made a face like he couldn’t take it anymore.
“Gungrave, don’t you remember promising to marry Arius once you obtained a territory and secured a place to settle down?!”
… Ah!! That’s right, I did make such a promise! When Shuri made yudofu for me for the first time, and Arius and I confessed our feelings to each other, I certainly said that.
And then after the incident in Arturia, I officially made Arius my fiancée, which brings us to now.
I finally understood. That’s right, that’s right, I had completely forgotten about it, caught up in the busyness of daily life… I’ve done Arius wrong…
“Ah, I finally remembered. …I’ve done Arius wrong.”
“Now that you understand, don’t you think it’s a good time to do it, now that the big baggage is being cleared up?”
Shuri tells me with his arms crossed. Indeed, now would be a good time to do it.
Now that things have settled down with Tevis, Lenha, and Anby, it’s the perfect time to get married. Just as Shuri says.
I’ve finally obtained a territory, albeit through questionable means. I’ve secured a place to settle down.
There’s nothing left to prevent my marriage to Arius.
“You’re right… Originally, it was just me, a mercenary, and Arius getting married. We should do it modestly, just with our close associates.”
“Huh?”
“Huh? Is there a problem with that?”
Did I say something strange? I don’t get it. I thought about it, but I couldn’t find anything wrong with what I said…
But Shuri gives me another exasperated look.
“Gungrave. You’re a lord now.”
“That’s right. I’ve obtained a territory and become a lord. Though the means were questionable.”
“Let’s not touch on the means right now, it’s complicated. That’s not the point. The point is, there’s no way a lord and his fiancée can have a modest wedding, right?”
“…Well, I suppose you’re right.”
Shuri’s words make sense. I understand that a wedding between a lord and his wife is quite a grand and busy affair, from preparations onwards.
And now I’m a lord. Arius will become my wife. It’s strange to have a wedding with just our mercenary group comrades. Sometimes, a lord’s wedding even involves grand parades and festivals in town. It gets even bigger for royal weddings.
Considering Sounité’s territory and economic situation, it would be proper to have a fairly large wedding. Even if we don’t have parades or festivals, at least a reception in the castle.
But still. I was the commander of a mercenary group, you know?
“Shuri, I get what you’re saying, but… think about it carefully. I was the commander of a mercenary group, right? Even if we were to have a reception, we only have our comrades to invite. That’s not much of a reception. At best, it would be like a family gathering, wouldn’t it?”
I try to explain this to Shuri, but… after thinking for a moment, Shuri opens his mouth.
“Even so, Princess Tevis is currently in this castle. Can you really say, ‘We’re having a family-only wedding, so please go somewhere else’?”
Oh, that’s right. Now we have Princess Tevis of Nouviche here. I’m not sure if we’re on good terms… but with royalty in the castle, we can’t just ignore them and have a wedding.
In fact, we’d have to bow our heads and request her attendance. Considering the size of our country, that’s the proper thing to do.
I realized this and turned pale, but Shuri continued.
“Besides, even though the lord isn’t from the original family anymore, if you do this without contacting the powerful clans that have long been associated with this territory, there will be a lot of discontent. Now that you’ve obtained a country, don’t you think you need to learn how to be considerate of powerful clans? I don’t really know, though.”
Damn. I forgot about that angle too.
This Sounité has countries, powerful clans, and influential merchants that it has long been associated with. If we have a wedding without any consideration for them, we’ll definitely be unpopular.
Well, when I said I was becoming the lord, it’s inevitable that ties with them will be cut off, but if we don’t at least show the gesture of inviting them, it’s obvious that we’ll not only be unpopular but even incur their anger.
Shuri’s words are so on point that I hang my head. Why didn’t I think of that possibility… I sigh, feeling pathetic about myself.
“You’re absolutely right. I’ve been completely focused on taking over this territory. I regret it.”
“Regret is a good thing. It means you won’t repeat the same mistake. So? When will you set the date for the wedding?”
Let’s see… Shuri asked with his arms crossed, so I decided to think about it again.
However, I realized the biggest obstacle and blushed bright red with embarrassment.
“Hey, Shuri”
“What is it?”
“Having a wedding means we have to tell Arius about it, right?”
“Of course. There’s no such thing as a wedding for one person in this world. That wouldn’t be called a wedding.”
“Who’s going to tell her?”
“It has to be you, Gungrave. Huh? Please don’t say anything cowardly here.”
Shuri warns me with a disgusted look, but… even I’m not going to say anything cowardly, you know.
“Obviously, it wouldn’t be right for someone else to say it… even I understand that much.”
“Then that’s good.”
“Why are you talking down to me all of a sudden?”
Maybe this guy has already… no, that’s not possible. This guy, of all people, definitely hasn’t been married before. He definitely hasn’t even had a lover before.
How do I know? I understand Shuri’s personality from our long association. This guy is so oblivious that he doesn’t even notice when someone of the opposite sex shows interest in him.
“From above? No… It’s just that because you’re being so indecisive, you’ve come down to my level. Please pull yourself together, you’re about to become a married man.”
“Ugh… sorry.”
“So? When are you going to do it?”
When… Now that he’s asking again, I’m not sure when to do it.
After all, I need to talk to Arius first. In other words, it’s a full-on marriage proposal. There’s no more nerve-wracking scene for a man. It requires once-in-a-lifetime courage. It’s different from the courage on the battlefield; it’s a test of a man’s pride.
Of course, sooner is better. I’ve kept Arius waiting for too long. I want to finally put her at ease. I want to make her happy.
For that, I need to muster up my courage, but… damn, usually my mind becomes sharp quickly, but right now my thoughts are incredibly dull. My heart is pounding. I’m getting nervous.
“Hey Shuri, um…”
“Oh, hello Arius.”
“Hello, Shuri. May I have a drink?”
Huh? Eeh?! W-Why is Arius here…?!
By some coincidence, Arius came to the dining hall and is talking about something with Shuri. What kind of coincidence is this, the person I was thinking about appears when I’m considering marriage!
I suddenly stiffen with nervousness. Rather than turning red with embarrassment, I feel like I’m turning blue with tension.
In the end, Arius asked Shuri for some kind of favor. Shuri accepted and returned to the kitchen.
Only Arius and I are left in the dining hall. The midday sunlight streaming into the dining hall makes Arius look even more beautiful. Now that I’m conscious of marriage, Arius’s womanly charms stand out even more, making it even harder to bring up the topic.
“Gungrave”
“Heeh? Ah, ahem, what is it?”
“What’s wrong? Is something…”
“N-Nothing at all!”
Oh no, oh no, I let out a strange voice due to nervousness…! What are you flustering about, Gungrave, pull yourself together!
I straighten myself up and say to Arius.
“Since you’re here, why don’t you join me? I’ve already finished my lunch, but…”
“Yes, I’d love to.”
Saying that, Arius sat down in the seat next to me.
Now, when it comes to actually saying it… it’s incredibly nerve-wracking.
“Gungrave”
“Hm? What is it?”
“We haven’t had much time for each other lately, have we? We’ve both been so busy.”
“Oh, yeah. That’s true.”
It certainly is. I’ve been busy with my work as a lord. Arius has been busy with her work training and educating the next generation of magicians.
Or rather, we’ve been busy and risking our lives since our mercenary days. Even so, we used to make time for each other and have these moments together.
But lately, look at us. I’ve been so caught up in the busyness of work that I haven’t been able to give Arius the attention she deserves. I need to reflect on this.
“I’m… sorry about that. I won’t make excuses about not having time or being busy… I’m truly sorry.”
I bow my head in apology.
“Ah, no! I’m not blaming you at all. I was just feeling a bit lonely… Just being able to spend time like this today makes me happy.”
Arius hurriedly tried to reassure me.
Damn, I made Arius worry about me… Originally, I should have been the one to make time and be with Arius.
Arius understands too. She knows how difficult it is to take over the work of a lord and run a country. That’s why Arius didn’t try to force meetings with me.
That’s why I should have quickly learned my duties as a lord and made time to spare…
“I appreciate you saying that. How about you? Is the training of the magicians going well?”
“Yes. Those children are working hard too. However, it seems quite challenging for them to spread Shuri’s teachings…”
Currently, Arius is focusing on discovering and nurturing new magicians. I’m not sure why Shuri can give advice on magic to magicians, but I don’t delve too deeply into it.
It was the same with Kuuga and Lill, and I think even if I had several lifetimes, it wouldn’t be enough to understand all of Shuri’s mysteries.
“Even so, by changing their mindset about using magic, the principles, and how to use magical power, their skills have improved considerably. It’s a delightful thing.”
“I see, that’s good.”
I smile along with Arius, but internally I’m in turmoil.
This isn’t right, Gungrave. The conversation shouldn’t just be about recent events. You’re supposed to be talking about the wedding. What are you doing, having such a cordial chat?
Alright, I’ve made up my mind. I’m going to say it.
“Arius!”
“What is it?”
…Huh? Arius has a solemn look on her face…? Why…?
Well, never mind, that’s fine!
“I’ve obtained a territory, haven’t I?”
“Yes, you have.”
“I’ve become a lord, right?”
“Yes, you have.”
“So, I think it’s time to fulfill the promise we made long ago.”
“I was thinking of saying the same thing.”
…Oh, so that’s what it was! Could it be that Arius came here to say this? Is that why she has such a solemn look on her face?
To think I’d end up making the woman ask about the promise… I’m truly pathetic. Is this how a man should act, Gungrave?!
But that ends now. I’ve made up my mind. I turn to face Arius with a determined look. This time, I look straight into Arius’s face, not averting my gaze.
I’m going to say it, me. Say it, me!
“I know it’s too late for me to say this properly now.”
“That’s right.”
“But, please let me say it. Please accept it.”
“…Yes.”
I take a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart a little.
However, my heart continues to beat like a rapid drumroll, showing no signs of settling down. My body is heating up, and I feel like I might black out from the tension.
But, my mouth moves.
“Will you… marry me? Let’s have our wedding ceremony.”
I said it! I said it, me! I’ve reached my limit, and I can’t help but avert my gaze from Arius, looking down.
How about it, how is it, Arius…! There’s no response from Arius, and I can’t see any movement. Since I can’t look at her face, I don’t even know what expression she’s making.
Time seems to flow incredibly slowly, feeling like an eternity. It feels like time has stopped in this world at this very moment.
However, it ended abruptly.
Arius gently placed her hand on mine. It’s a bit cold. A pleasant body temperature is transmitted through her hand.
When I look up… there’s Arius’s face, smiling with tears in her eyes.
“Is someone like me really good enough?”
“Of course. It has to be you, no one else but Arius. I want to marry Arius.”
“I feel the same way. It has to be Gungrave. Please take responsibility. I don’t want anyone but you.”
“I’ll take responsibility. I’ll cherish you for life.”
“Yes… Even though I’m like this, please take care of me.”
Great, she’s accepted-
“Tada! Congratulations!”
“How wonderful! Truly wonderful!”
“It’s time for a feast!”
“…Congratulations!”
Just as I thought that, Shuri, Kuuga, Tegue, and Lill burst through the dining hall door with great momentum! And they’re all wearing big smiles as they invade!
Lill is accompanying the crying Arius, talking about something.
The problem is the remaining men. They’re all smiling. Huge smiles. They’re grinning.
Still smiling, they surround me and beam down at me…! What’s with these guys!
“Congratulations, Gungrave!”
“How manly. Truly a manly proposal.”
“Isn’t it nice? So lovey-dovey.”
T-These guys…!
“Yes, that’s right! I proposed marriage! She accepted! What’s wrong with that?!”
So I snapped back, biting back as hard as I could. Yeah, what’s wrong with being straightforward!
But when I said that… everyone’s grins changed to their usual smiles.
“Finally. It’s been a long time coming. Congratulations, Gungrave. It was a clear, manly proposal.”
“That’s right. If you had started rambling on and on there, even I would have gotten angry and interrupted.”
“Even I don’t feel a hint of jealousy. I can honestly say ‘congratulations’ with a pure heart.”
What? Suddenly these guys are genuinely congratulating me? What’s going on?
First of all, why are these guys here? I understand why Shuri is here, but… I have questions about how he moved from the kitchen to the dining hall entrance so quickly, but let’s put that aside for now.
Why are Kuuga, Tegue, and Lill here? How did they know I was going to propose? The timing is too perfect…!
Seeing my confused face, Shuri tapped my shoulder with a wry smile.
“Gungrave… Actually, I received a consultation from Arius before. A week ago.”
“Huh?”
Shuri did? He received a consultation from Arius a week ago? What’s going on?
“Well, you see, Arius was worried. You’ve obtained a territory, become a lord. The conditions of the promise have been met, but there was no word from you. Not even a hint. She was wondering how you felt about her.”
“Huh?”
“So I told her, ‘He’s just forgotten because he’s busy.’“
Ugh, I can’t argue back because it’s true…! While I’ve been making Arius worry so much, I’ve been caught up in the fulfillment and busyness of work, neglecting her…!
“I told Arius, ‘Why don’t you make a move?’ But Arius insisted on trying to subtly hint at it for a week to make you notice. Even though I told her it was absolutely impossible.”
Those words felt like a sharp blade piercing my heart. I clutched my chest in pain. I can’t say anything back because it’s the truth and reality.
Oh, so that’s why Arius has been appearing in my line of sight so often this past week!
She’s been acting strangely, trying to enter my field of vision at every opportunity, but that was the reason… It’s both touching and completely off the mark!
“So, after the one-week deadline passed, I said I would take action to make Gungrave notice, which led to today’s events.”
I see. So that’s why Shuri started this conversation at that time. I didn’t know there was such a backstory.
Shuri, in his own way, was trying to help our relationship… I can only feel grateful. I made him worry unnecessarily.
“I see… I’m sorry, it’s my fault.”
“If you’re reflecting on it, make sure you properly respond to Arius’s feelings, okay?”
“I got it, I understand.”
Of course I do. Now that everything has been set up like this, I’ll make sure to fulfill my responsibility. I answered with a determined look on my face.
…Wait? There’s still something else, isn’t there?
“Why do Tegue and Kuuga know about this? I understand Arius consulting Shuri, and I can see why Lill knows the situation as a fellow woman who might have heard her complaints.
But why do Tegue and Kuuga know? Was Arius so troubled that she consulted even these guys?”
If that were the case, it would be my fault, but… that’s not it, right? Shuri’s eyes have been darting around since earlier, so that can’t be it, right?
When I asked this, Kuuga was trying to hold back his laughter with his hand over his mouth.
“Kukukuku…! Well, you see, Gungrave, Shuri is quite easy to read, you know? It was obvious that he was hiding something.”
“So Kuuga and I cornered him and made him spill the beans.”
What?! Even Tegue is laughing, which means… Shuri, you!
“That’s definitely not okay!”
“I’m sorry, they were so insistent, and I thought they might be able to help come up with a plan…”
Shuri bows his head in apology, but honestly, I have mixed feelings. Anger at involving Tegue and Kuuga, and sympathy for the situation that forced him to involve them.
It’s all my responsibility…
“No, um… This all happened because I was so inadequate… I’m the one who should be sorry.”
“That’s right… Think about it, even in this situation, no one else is coming. If we hadn’t blocked it off, all your subordinates would have rushed in here by now, and there would have been no time for mental preparation. The situation could have turned bad.”
…Huh? Eh? …Oh, I see! Tegue and Kuuga made sure no one else would come here.
That’s why even in this situation, no one else is coming… They made it possible for Arius and me to calmly consider marriage…
“I see… Sorry, Kuuga.”
“It’s fine. We’ve done what we needed to do, and the goal has been achieved.”
“I also asked my subordinates to make sure no one comes here. If this is the result without any interruptions, I’m satisfied.”
“Thank you, Tegue.”
“Hehe, this much is a piece of cake.”
Tegue said, scratching his nose bashfully.
So with everyone’s involvement, I finally achieved this result… I still have a long way to go. No, I’m just an immature fool. I’m an idiot.
To think I needed everyone’s help just to propose to the one I love…
“Well, um. Thanks, everyone.”
I thanked them again.
“You’re welcome.”
“You’re really a handful, you know.”
“All’s well that ends well!”
It was at that moment.
“I’ve heard everything!”
The dining hall door burst open, and two women entered.
One is the usual expressionless maid, Eutine… but she looks incredibly tired… why?
And the other is the usual princess.
“Leave the rest to me.”
It was Princess Tevis, pointing at herself with her thumb, trying to look cool.
Wait, why did she come here? Looking at Tegue and Kuuga, they seem genuinely surprised. Apparently, Princess Tevis’s appearance here was truly unexpected.
And since Shuri, Lill, and Arius are also surprised, it doesn’t seem like the information leaked from here.
Why is she here? And what does she mean by “I’ve heard everything”… Who told her about me and Arius? And how did she sneak in here when it’s supposed to be blocked off?
“Leave it to you… What do you mean, Princess? Why are you here? And who did you hear this from?”
Shuri asked on my behalf the questions I had in mind.
Princess Tevis then answered with a mischievous smile.
“Fufufufufu. Don’t underestimate my eyes and ears. My subordinates are not so incompetent as to miss or overlook such an interesting- ahem, such an important event!”
This girl just now, she was about to say interesting…
“So, what do you mean by ‘leave it to you’?”
“It’s obvious, Shuri. A lord welcoming a wife is a major event in the territory. Normally, it would be important to trace connections and inform neighboring countries about this. It greatly affects diplomacy, you know.
However! You two originally have unknown backgrounds! So, I’ll arrange suitable people to celebrate with you.”
Princess Tevis declared with a triumphant look, but… isn’t that unnecessary…?
“But Princess Tevis. We were planning to have a modest wedding with just our close associates. I think having strangers come to celebrate would just be stiff and tiring…”
Arius says this, but internally, I feel somewhat relieved.
As Shuri mentioned earlier, a wedding between a lord and his fiancée is never a small affair.
Even if I invited them, the influential people in the territory probably wouldn’t come, but if Princess Tevis calls them, they’d have no choice but to attend. It would at least maintain appearances.
However, Princess Tevis’s next words made me realize how naive my understanding was.
“Arius, as I said before, marriage affects diplomacy. A new lord appearing, and who his lady is. Whether this is known to the surroundings or not completely changes how others will treat you.
Some might see you as an eyesore. They might want to see what kind of man obtained the territory, by what means. They’ll want to know who his lady is too. You can smoke out such people.
Conversely, some might be interested in whether the talented young man who newly obtained a territory has a wife. Some might want to entangle you or place you under them through marriage politics.
Do you understand? This is necessary to determine who your enemies are, who your allies are.”
I couldn’t help but be surprised by the lengthy explanation. It was only after Princess Tevis pointed it out that I finally understood the importance beyond just being congratulated.
A debut… that was also a purpose.
Indeed, now that she mentions it, that’s true. I’ve obtained a territory, however crooked the means. And I’ve made enemies too.
We can’t end this with just our close associates without taking the opportunity to identify those enemies. That won’t do.
From now on, I’ll have many things to protect. To protect them, I need to judge who to fight and who to face…
“I’m sorry, Arius. I…”
“No, it’s alright, Gungrave.”
Before I could finish my sentence, Arius said with a smile.
“Our wedding is no longer just about us. Besides, since we’re having one, why not make it a grand celebration?”
Arius… Is that really okay? Is that really alright with you?
To be honest, I was conflicted. I really wanted to make our wedding exactly as Arius hoped it would be. After making her suffer and wait for so long, I wanted to give Arius a happy wedding experience. That’s what I thought.
But Arius has allowed our wedding to be used for politics. Or rather, she had no choice but to allow it.
Arius will now become the wife of a lord. That means, whether she likes it or not, she’ll be involved in politics. She’ll increasingly find herself in situations where it’s necessary.
Part of me wants to keep her away from that reality and work as much as possible. I want her to only have happy feelings. I want her to live only a happy life.
But I can’t. I’m… such a pathetic guy. I can’t even perfectly protect the one person I love.
“That’s right, that’s right. It’s about time you realized that you’ve obtained a territory. From now on, you’re not just the commander of a mercenary group.”
Not just the commander of a mercenary group.
Those words were incredibly heavy. The era of roaming the continent as a free fighting force is over.
From now on, as a defensive and offensive force, we’ll need even more order and discipline than in our mercenary days.
“…I understand. Princess Tevis, may I ask for your help?”
I took a humble attitude and bowed my head.
Seeing this attitude, I could sense the surprise from those around me. Of course, a lord bowing his head to another country.
That means acknowledging that our country is inferior to the other. It can’t be helped since it’s the truth.
I looked into it and understood. Sounité was indeed wealthier than the surrounding territories, with Gyngus and Aeclys managing it well despite their disagreements.
But Nouviche. When I investigated and actually saw the difference in class with Nouviche, I was overwhelmed. I learned anew how vast a territory, how enormous a fortune, how huge a scale of troops this little girl in front of me has maintained and developed.
The class is different. The rank is different.
To become equal with this opponent, to one day claim hegemony over this continent, I need to bow my head where I can. It’s a necessary tactic for survival.
“…Very well. I, Tevis Nouviche, for the sake of my friend Shuri, will arrange the wedding guests for you two.”
In response, perhaps understanding my intention, Princess Tevis agrees with a haughty attitude.
The meaning I conveyed was, “We’re bowing our heads and acknowledging you as superior, so play along. If you want to repay the favors and gratitude for Shuri’s cooking, go along with it. As the superior party, you’ll tell the surroundings that Sounité and Nouviche have a good relationship, right?”
What Princess Tevis conveyed in her response was, “I accept, you detestable fellow. I’ll do as you say. But remember, you’re still inferior. And I’m doing this for Shuri, not for you, so don’t get cocky.”
Even at this point, there’s considerable tension, but it can’t be helped. We’re actually inferior after all.
“Thank you very much.”
I respond with an appropriately humble attitude.
Perhaps sensing this subtle tension, the people around us are watching silently. There are probably some who want to interject, but I’m grateful they’re keeping quiet. If there were any strange interruptions here, it would disrupt this charade.
“Well then! Now that it’s decided, let’s talk about the wedding!”
And yet… this guy Shuri…! What is he planning to say with that huge smile…!
“Princess Tevis. There are some ingredients I’d like transported via Nouviche.”
“Oh? What’s that? A new creation?”
“I was thinking of serving something delicious and auspicious to everyone.”
“That’s great! I can trust Shuri’s cooking! By all means, let’s prepare it! So, what do we need to prepare?”
Princess Tevis and Shuri are enthusiastically discussing something. What are these guys planning to do at our wedding…?
“…That’s the kind of ingredients, do you have them?”
“Hmm… I’ve eaten something similar, so procuring them shouldn’t be a problem.”
“Oh, then you might have tasted my cooking before too.”
“Even so, I believe Shuri will present something two or three levels above that! Well then, I shall go to do what needs to be done! Farewell!!”
In the end, Princess Tevis said what she wanted to say and left. I’m not sure if she wanted to give advice or if she came to mooch off Shuri’s cooking under the pretext of the wedding.
The remaining Shuri, with a huge smile on his face, places his hands on both my shoulders while making strange movements. I have a bad feeling about this. My instincts are telling me to run away.
“Gungrave. Are you okay with things as they are?”
“Pardon?”
What are you trying to say? This huge smile. I have a really bad feeling about this!
“…Ah! Shuri, you’re not planning to do that thing you mentioned before, are you?!”
“Are you really going to do that…? Are you serious about doing that?!”
Huh? What? Tegue and Kuuga know about this? Is it something so surprising that they’re going to do? What is this guy planning to say?
By the way, looking at Lill, she seems to be staring into space, perhaps feeling hungry. This guy is gradually turning into a mysterious character… Is she okay?
“Don’t you want to make your wedding with Arius special?”
“Huh? Special? You mean memorable?”
“Let’s make it go down in the records too, shall we?”
Re-cords?
“First, you’ll make a vow to God. That you’ll love each other eternally.”
“…What?”
A vow to God, you say?
“You’ll vow to God that you’ll love Arius eternally… is that what you’re saying?”
“Yes. You can do that, right?”
“…Are you really telling me to do this?”
“You can. Right?”
I look at Arius with a troubled face, but… Arius is just blushing with her hands on her cheeks, muttering something…
“T-To God… that we love each other… that we’re in love… i-it’s wonderful…”
It’s no use… has she turned into a dreamy woman?!
“Furthermore, you’ll exchange rings in front of everyone. You’ll give each other wedding rings on your left ring fingers. This will announce to everyone that you have a wife, or he has a husband.”
“Huh? Rings… you say?”
“Of course, luxurious ones with jewels and silver decorations.”
“You’re telling me to make such an expensive purchase?!”
I look at Arius, but,
“It’s wonderful… a symbol of our marriage… And to receive such a beautiful thing from Gungrave… I should prepare something equally special… What would be good…”
She has the face of a girl in love, so she’s no help.
“And then,”
“There’s more?!”
“You’ll share a kiss of vow in front of everyone. A kiss, a kiss. In front of everyone at the venue. You’ll show everyone and God that she’s yours, and you’re hers.”
…I was at a loss for words. What is this guy saying? I couldn’t even comprehend the entity in front of me anymore. It just looks like a lump of meat speaking words.
Of all things, he’s telling us to kiss in public. To mark Arius as mine in front of a crowd of people.
How could I possibly do that?!!
“There’s no way I could do something like that!! What kind of crazy thing are you saying?!”
“It’s normal in my country, though.”
I’ll never go to that country. Not even if it kills me.
However, contrary to my thoughts, Arius said to me with a beaming smile.
“Isn’t it wonderful, Gungrave? Let’s definitely do it.”
“Are you serious?!”
Is she blinded by the romanticism?
“Yes, of course. I’m yours, and you’re mine. I won’t give you to anyone else, not at all!”
“What’s gotten into you?”
“I don’t know…”
Seeing Arius continue to go off the rails, I’m terrified. Even Kuuga next to me is taken aback. Of course he is.
“Well then, that’s how it’ll go,”
At this point, Shuri clapped his hands.
“…Huh? Seriously?”
“Seriously. Let’s go with this, Gungrave!”
“W-Wait, please, have mercy…!”
However, my pleas were in vain, and it was decided that we would have the wedding as Shuri proposed.
And that brings us to the present. Since Shuri and Princess Tevis took care of almost all the preparations, the only thing I did was spread the word. In other words, public relations.
I don’t know how the townspeople feel about it, but honestly, I have some concerns. That’s why I’m sitting in the preparation room, holding my head in my hands, feeling gloomy.
I’m officially becoming the lord of this territory and taking Arius as my wife. And from now on, I want to work tirelessly to improve our reputation and eventually create the peaceful country I’ve dreamed of.
That’s fine. That’s all fine. But as the day approaches, anxiety rears its head in my mind. There’s an unpleasant feeling like a snake coiling around my neck.
Am I really worthy of Arius?
Arius is beautiful, she’s talented. In another world, she could have surely married into nobility. No, it’s entirely possible even in this world.
And yet, look at this. She’s devoted to me, and now she’s about to become my wife.
Couldn’t she have found a better man than me? Can I really make Arius happy?
Such anxieties smolder in the depths of my chest. With just a little spark, they could turn into a raging fire.
“Everyone’s waiting~ Are you not feeling well~?”
It was then that I heard a voice from outside the preparation room.
I was startled for a moment, almost jumping up. In my mind, I had thought no one would come here.
Suddenly, I realized that quite some time had passed since I locked myself in this preparation room like a siege. It seems the situation of me staying frozen here is no longer acceptable.
Or perhaps someone, sensing a crisis in my continued seclusion in the preparation room, brought Shuri here.
Come to think of it, someone had been calling for me from outside for a while. That voice was… thinking back, it was Kuuga’s voice.
I see, so Kuuga brought Shuri here. I finally realized this, but at the same time, I remembered the anxiety in my chest.
Can I really make Arius happy, given how immature I still am?
I want at least a little more time to sort things out.
“Ah, no, wait. I need to think about something.”
“Screw this. Kuuga, if you please.”
“Alright.”
Huh? Before I could even process what was happening, the door suddenly flew off its hinges. The hinges, the lock, everything broke as the door soared through the air to the corner of the room, crashing into the wall and breaking.
I have no idea what just happened. I ask for a moment, and the door breaks?
Looking again, I see Shuri entering the room with a terrifying aura. Kuuga is with him too. Apparently, Kuuga kicked the door down. What are they thinking?
“W-what are you guys doing?!”
“Gungrave. I heard… that you’re anxious about the future, that you’re worrying about various things.”
Completely ignoring my question, Shuri’s words make me catch my breath. Why does Shuri know about this?
…Maybe I could open up to Shuri. I don’t know why I think this or where this thought comes from.
But… yeah. It’s probably because of my trust in Shuri built up over time. This guy has always helped me when I’ve been troubled like this.
So, I decided to talk.
“Y-Yeah… I can’t help but think about various things. She’s as beautiful as she looks, and she’s talented. If she marries me now, it’s obvious she’ll face hardships.”
In the end, that’s what it comes down to.
I want Arius, who has loved me since we were children, to be happy.
Because I love Arius too.
“If anything, it might be better if she joined a magic unit in a large country and caught the eye of some royalty… that way she’d be happy…”
“You big idiot!!!”
Shuri suddenly kicked a nearby table while shouting at the top of his lungs. The chair didn’t move much because it was heavy, but… please stop, don’t destroy any more of the room’s furnishings.
“Listen up, Gungrave. I’ll only say this once.”
“H-hey Shuri, you’re being too rough…”
“Shut up. I’m going to say it.”
Faced with Shuri’s rage, which I’ve never seen before, I was simply intimidated.
No, that’s not right. I’ve seen this before. When Arius was almost taken away by that idiot prince in Arturia, and Shuri prevented it.
And when we left Arturia, Shuri punched me. He yelled at me, asking how I could fail to protect the one I love. With that rebuke included.
He’s making the same face now. He brought that same face close to mine and said
“Arius chose to be with you, even in times of hardship and pain. That’s what makes her happy. She chose you because she believes that overcoming hardships and pain together with you is what will make her happy. How can you get anxious now? The you I know is stronger than this. Please don’t say such pathetic things as a man who’s about to carry the lives of his people, saying he can’t carry the life of one woman he loves.”
In times of hardship, in times of happiness.
Those words felt like a divine revelation to me. That’s right, that’s absolutely right, Shuri.
If Arius hated it, she would have left this place long ago. And she would have ended up with someone else.
The reason Arius didn’t do that is because, though it might sound arrogant, she loved me that much. We’ve risked our lives together, crossed many dangerous bridges.
Even when faced with countless, hundreds of dangers, Arius stayed with me.
So what? If I’m thinking about happiness and suitable partners now… I should have broken up with Arius long ago if that was the case.
That’s right. If she’s willing to stay with me this far, I’ll take responsibility. If she gives me love, I’ll return that love.
The black flame of anxiety smoldering in my heart is extinguished. Instead, what flares up is a bright red flame.
A flame of vow to protect Arius and make her happy.
“Well then, Gungrave. Please live your future properly with the person you love.”
“H-hey, Shuri.”
Saying this, Shuri tries to leave the room in a hurry.
“I still have places to go. Arius must be eagerly awaiting this day too. There’s no time to dawdle. …I’m sorry, but I need to hurry. Kuuga, can I leave the rest to you?”
“Yeah, leave it to me.”
“Then I’ll leave it in your hands.”
After speaking rapidly, Shuri left the room.
He flew out like an arrow released from a bow through the broken door, but…
“Good grief. Shuri’s busy too, you know.”
“…Yeah. I caused unnecessary worry.”
“From your words, I gather you’re not worried anymore?”
I stand up from the chair and look straight at Kuuga.
“I’ve made up my mind.”
“You’re late. You should have done that when this talk came up, or rather, when you got engaged to Arius.”
Ugh! T-That’s right… Kuuga is right…
“Getting all wishy-washy over a woman isn’t manly at all. You should decide quickly and act decisively.
Look at women. They’re much more clear-cut. They switch gears faster than men.
You should learn from that and stop being so indecisive, Gungrave.”
“I don’t want to hear that from someone who won’t settle down with one woman.”
“What are you saying?”
Kuuga puffed out his chest and said.
“Women won’t leave me alone.”
“May you be stabbed in the back.”
This guy really…! Just because he has a good face, he’s getting cocky…!
“Well then, let’s go, Gungrave.”
“? Where to?”
“Are you an idiot?! The envoys have arrived, so we need to go greet them! That’s why even Shuri was called to try and drag you out!”
“What? Envoys? The envoys are already here?!”
I had forgotten, I need to go greet them or it would be disrespectful!
“I got it, I’ll go right away. What about Arius?”
When I asked Kuuga, he made an awkward face. Hm? What’s wrong, what happened?
“Ah, well… she’s holed up too.”
“What? Arius is?”
“In a similar way to you, and Shuri is… Hey! Gungrave?!”
I didn’t wait for Kuuga to finish speaking before I dashed out of the room. Although the wedding attire is unfamiliar, it doesn’t hinder running.
No, even if it did, I would still run. A little discomfort doesn’t matter.
Arius is holed up. Just like me.
It’s my fault. Because I didn’t clearly show my attitude, I made her anxious. How could I not have realized this!
Of course Arius would have worries, just like I did! How could I only think about myself!
Wait for me, Arius. I’ll dispel all your anxieties!
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