Chapter 84

As soon as the decision was made, I could guess from the small celebration that followed. Elshimer entering the Caladborg Duke’s residence as my bodyguard went smoothly without much opposition. Even though I, as the duke’s consort, would naturally accept it, I thought there might be some people within the rival Bright Wing Knights who would be sensitive about Elshimer, a former deputy commander of the Black Wing Knights, stepping into the Caladborg residence.

Even if they weren’t actively protesting, I assumed there would be some dissent against this decision by Asulin, and I had warned Elshimer to keep this in mind. However, my concerns were unfounded as Elshimer quickly adapted to life at the Caladborg residence from the welcoming party onwards, and the people of the Caladborg family welcomed him warmly.

…The only exception was Katarina, who seemed a bit unnerved when looking at him, but Asulin said she mentioned feeling scared. It might take some time for this to ease, but overall, Elshimer was accepted as one of the family without much trouble.

Even though it felt strange to me, accepting someone who used to be an enemy so easily was surprising. But after hearing Asulin’s explanation later, I understood. Firstly, Asulin, the de facto head of the family, decided it, so no one dared to question it. This was the biggest factor.

Secondly, Elshimer’s reputation and character, which had spread through word of mouth since the Succession War, contributed significantly. Despite finding it hard to believe, Elshimer’s support during the war, even while leading the Black Wing Knights, was highly regarded within the Bright Wing Knights.

Seeing such a transformation from a street thug to someone who could be compared to a mirror of chivalry was both bewildering and somewhat gratifying. But more importantly, he came here to help with the significant tasks ahead.

I was grateful to the people of the Caladborg residence for accepting Elshimer without much fuss. Regardless, my days continued without pause, almost like water flowing downhill. There were no signs of the threat from the former head of house, nor did the barbarian tribe invasion reported by Rize through the Caladborg family cause any real concern.

Ordinary people might find this peace after enduring hardships refreshing, but I couldn’t afford to relax. I spent every moment improving myself, helping Asulin manage the territory, and even asking her for opportunities to help the Failord family.

Every night, I sparred with her or practiced swordsmanship alone, fully concentrating on honing my skills. Helping the financially struggling Failord family and preparing for future challenges were equally important tasks. I couldn’t afford to neglect either.

Unlike before, when I might have been discouraged by heavy burdens, now I had no intention of stopping. With a clear goal in mind, both my work and swordsmanship became increasingly rewarding.

Noticing my progress, Asulin praised me, and even Failord didn’t hold back his compliments. Seeing their approval, I felt confident that what I was doing was right.

“Ugh! Excellent!”

Failord praised me with a delighted voice as soon as I demonstrated my sword technique. His frequent self-praise could be annoying, but he also encouraged me.

“Keep striving. There are no shortcuts on the path of the sword. In the same amount of time given to everyone, you must be more intense than anyone else to move forward.”

Though cliché, Failord’s words carried weight due to his experience, compelling me to listen.

Then, thinking about how he could treat famous swords like Caladborg and Ascalon like novices, I wondered how old he must be.

“…I seem to have just had a rude thought.”

“Must be my mood.”

“…Well, today I’m in a good mood, so I’ll let it slide.”

Failord seemed to read my fleeting thoughts perfectly, making it impossible to be careless.

“Thank you for your understanding.”

I replied politely, not wanting to show my true feelings.

“Very well.”

Failord accepted my apology calmly but seemed intent on continuing the conversation.

“You should return to your bedroom. I’m not that heartless as to leave a new bride alone. Hehe.”

Failord seemed to be taking a small revenge by teasing me, pretending to forgive me.

Thinking about how I managed to cut off the tedious chatter at the right moment, I cleaned up and changed clothes before returning to the bedroom.

“Andy.”

Asulin greeted me with a warm voice, her bright face filling my vision. After our marriage, I never imagined seeing her like this, but now it felt like a reality.

“Missing you for over an hour made me feel lonely. Even if I didn’t pout, hurry and stroke my hair in praise.”

Of course, I wouldn’t say such things. The longer I was married, the more affectionate she became.

I smiled and stroked her hair, feeling warmth despite its cool appearance. The anxiety about the uncertain future faded as I saw her happy expression.

This happiness felt overwhelming.

May it continue without interruption…

***

When Andy’s large, strong hand rested on her head, Asulin felt a peculiar tingling sensation, making her body and mind drowsy.

Just a simple action of another person touching her head and brushing it gently was enough to bring immense comfort to her.

Despite the roughness of Andy’s hands, hardened by years of sword handling, she found comfort in them. At first, she wondered why, but gradually, she understood.

‘…He’s gentle.’

His gentleness was evident in every touch, despite his rough hands. She felt comfortable because he always tried to make her feel at ease, mindful of her discomfort.

When she first met Andy, she felt differently. He was a genius with a talent for swords and a cold exterior that made him hard to approach.

But now, she saw a different side to him. His golden eyes, once sharp and cold, now held warmth and comfort. They reminded her of comforting memories from her childhood.

She tried to recall who else had touched her like this, but the memory remained hazy.

“Seems sleepy. Shall we go to bed?”

His caring eyes and gentle actions mirrored those of her husband, who treated her with the same tenderness.

“…Maybe it’s because Elshimer told me something unnecessary. Seeing Asulin like this brings back strange memories.”

He pondered, recalling a memory sparked by Elshimer’s words.

“…There’s nothing to remember. Must be Elshimer’s imagination.”

He dismissed the fleeting nostalgia with a light scratch of his head.

“…Goodnight.”

He tucked Asulin into bed, his eyes filled with tenderness.

“…Elshimer’s nonsense made me think of this. Seeing Asulin like this evokes odd memories.”

He reminisced, his gaze softening.

“…It’s just imagination. Goodnight.”

He kissed her forehead, ending the day, and drifted off to sleep, reflecting on the past.