《Only with Your Heart》


 Chapter Epilogue 1

    TL: Le

    Editor:OhHeck

    Pr: Kay

    Read Advance chapters for the month of July by bing a patronHERE

    A pleasant, cool breeze had been blowing across the meadow for quite a while now, rustling the spring grass as it spread its youthful growth across thend. The bright, shimmering sun was about to set over the horizon, beyond the hills and the meadow.

    So that is how your mother and father got married. Many people came to the ceremony and congratted us, the songs and dances kept going one after the other, and your father wouldnt let go of your mother in her bridal dress until the ceremony was over.

    The boy squinted his eyes and looked at his mothers delicate profile that glowed in the bright orange sunset. His mother smiled happily and turned her gaze from the setting sun to the boy.

    No matter how old she was, his mother had never lost her girlish loveliness, and she looked beautiful even in the eyes of her son. It was easy to imagine how his father had never let go of his mother in her bridal dress during the wedding ceremony. After all, even to this day, his father rarely left his mothers side.

    And then?! Tell me what happened next!

    Unable to contain his curiosity, the boy turned to his mother to seek more stories of his parents rtionship.

    His mother ced her hand gently on the boys shoulder and continued in her usual gentle tone.

    Your father has been as kind as always since we got married, my boy. Now, go back to your father, hes calling for you.

    But I want to hear more.

    Ill see youter, little one. For now, you should go.

    The boy, who had been resting with his mother in the shade of a tree, looked at his father. His father was standing in the middle of the field with his sword in hand. Sure enough, his father was looking at him, holding his hand out to gesture him over.

    The break was over.

    The boy felt shivers run down his spine at the thought of starting that intense sword training again.

    His father was a knight of great strength, and it was apparent that he was trying to pass his skill and strength to the boy, his only son. The young boy also dreamed of bing a great knight, just like his father one day.

    However, the boy had just turned eight years old.

    Based on this countrys custom, the son of a knight was allowed to carry a sword after his eighth birthday. And as expected, the boy was given a long sword by his parents on his eighth birthday. The heavy sword shone with a bright, silver glow and was almost as tall as the boy.

    Remember why we carry swords, his father said.

    Swords arent wielded to plunder and ughter. We carry swords to protect the people we love.

    Then, as if possessed by something, the father began to teach the boy swordsmanship.

    The boy had heard many rumors that the city was not very safe these days. Perhaps because of this, his father, who was usually strict yet mild-mannered, had been training him from morning to night like a demon.

    He wanted to rest a little longer, listening to his mothers old stories.. but the boy picked up his sword, left the shade of the tree where his mother sat, and joined his father standing in the middle of the field.

    His fathers jet-ck eyes stared at the boys movements.

    The boy had eyes that resembled his fathers.

    What were you talking about?

    His father queried in a calm voice as the boy reached right in front of him. The boy nced towards the shade of the tree where his mother was, shrugged his shoulders, and answered.

    I was listening to the story of fathers and mothers love story. She seemed very happy.

    His father looked up, stared straight at his mother in the distance, and smiled softly. It was a smile so full of affection that even the setting sun seemed to fade away.

    But I only heard it halfway. I wish I could have listened to it a bit longer.

    When he muttered his dissatisfaction in a low voice, his father turned toward the boy with the same smile he had for his mother and ced his hand on the boys short, jet-ck hair, which was the exact same color as his eyes.

    His fathers hand wasrge, strong, and muscr.

    To him, a young boy, there seemed to be nothing on earth more powerful than his fathers hand.

    If you want to hear the rest of it, well have to wait until evening.

    Yes.

    The boys father was about to draw his sword.

    However, he paused, suddenly lifting the corner of his lips and let out a wry smile.

    But theres a reason why were only halfway through the story.

    The boy held the handle of his sword to match his fathers position, but before he assumed proper posture, he tilted his head.

    Why?

    Why? Because our story is not over yet. And it will never end. Our story will be passed on to you, Zain, and then to your children. And then to their children, and their children. Evesting.

    ***

 Chapter Epilogue 2

    Lukrov slowly opened his eyes.

    The first thing he saw was a glowing orange sunset at the edge of the field, just like the one he had seen next to his mother and father when he was a boy. Lukrovs eyes strayed a few more times before he gently looked up.

    Chizuru was looking down at him, smiling softly.

    She was sitting with her back against the trunk of arge tree whilst Lukrov rested his head on herp and had dozed off for a while.

    Are you awake already? Chizuru whispered, sliding her thin, white fingers through his hair, You could have slept a little longer.

    No, Ive had enough rest. You didnt get much sleepst night, did you?

    Lukrov ced one hand on Chizurus cheek and chuckled meaningfully. She immediately turned bright red and grabbed his hand, embarrassed.

    Whose fault is that?

    Its mine :)).

    Rememberingst nights heated passion, the two of them stared at each other and felt the others body be hot and aroused.

    The only person who can make love to you all night long is me.

    Chizuru shrugged her shoulders shyly at first but soon surrendered to Lukrovs direct gaze and bent down to drop a light kiss on his forehead.

    As soon as he touched the nape of Chizurus neck, he quickly flipped their position, pinning her down. Chizuru gasped in surprise and looked back at him with wide eyes.

    Ill hold you a little more gently tonight, wife. I dont want you to copse.

    In all honesty, his manhood was already hard and eager for Chizuru, and she must have felt it too. No matter how much time had passed, Lukrovs desire for Chizuru remained unchanged.

    On the contrary, their love had deepened as the years passed.

    Lukrov

    Chizuru closed her eyes and epted Lukrovs devouring kisses.

    The air between them became intense as their ragged breaths mingled.

    Lukrov Not now

    Just as Chizuru pleaded with a sigh

    Mother! Father! What are you doing?

    With big ck eyes, a boy who was almost five years old peeked out from the side and looked at them. Several leaves were scattered on the boys head, and his tunic, which had been neatly ironed and worn in the morning, was wrinkled andpletely stained with mud.

    However, his smile was angelic.

    Chizuru rushed to distance herself from Lukrov, but he maintained his firm grip. Instead, he leaned in close and kissed her lightly just below her earlobe.

    Zain.

    Looking up, Lukrov spoke to the boy in a calm tone.

    You shouldnt disturb your father. I told you to go over there and y for a while.

    Yes but I wanted to show you this.

    The boy proudly held out something wrapped in his hands in front of Lukrov and Chizuru. They simultaneously nced at each other and looked at what was in the boys hands.

    Zains hands were full of nuts and berries. They were round, ripe, and edible  qualities difficult to find in this area.

    We picked them together.

    The boy called Zain eximed with a cheerful smile.

    Lukrov and Chizuru looked at each other and smiled at the same time, noticing the kindness and cleverness of their son.

    ***

 Chapter Epilogue 3

    The first child they had was a boy, and they named him Zain.

    After suffering through her first childbirth, Lukrov held Chizuru in his arms and was so excited to see their newborn baby that he forgot how to breathe. He was bright red, wrinkled, tiny, and the most beautiful thing in the world.

    Zain.

    Thats what Lukrov had unconsciously muttered to himself.

    It wasnt that the baby resembled thete Zain. In terms of appearance, the baby looked exactly like Lukrov, who had blonde hair and blue eyes. However, what came to Lukrovs mind was the image of that young man who was his best friend.

    Zainthis boys name is Zain.

    Chizuru nodded in agreement with Lukrov, nodding her head tearfully.

    The gentle and intelligent baby was loved by all the people in the castle. Although he was the spitting image of Lukrov, his calm personality was reminiscent of the deceased Zain.

    When Zain was two years old, Chizuru became pregnant again.

    Her second child was a girl.

    Where is your sister?

    When Lukrov asked, Zain shrugged his shoulders and looked towards the field.

    She is still looking for berries. I told her it wouldnt be that easy to find them, but she was stubborn.

    Bring her back. Its almost nightfall. We have to go home.

    The boy nodded, pressed the nuts and berries into Lukrovs hands, and ran toward the grassy field.

    Lukrov stood up and stretched out his hand to Chizuru. She took his hand and stood up with his help. How many times had they done this already? There was no need for words anymore.

    The moment she realized that her second child was a girl, Chizuru naturally thought Lukrov would choose the name Edina. It seemed very logical to her.

    But when he held the newborn in his arms, Lukrov was silent for a moment. He then pulled Chizuru and the three-year-old Zain into his arms and asked, Chizuru, what name would you like to give her?

    Chizuru looked up at her husband in surprise.

    Not Edina?

    No.

    He stared at the babys face and the small hand that clumsily squeezed his. Theyre brother and sisterI dont want them to fall in love. We should use a different name.

    Chizuruughed, finding it funny. The young Zain didnt understand what they were saying, but he was excited and fascinated by his new sister as if she were the rarest jewel in the world.

    Chizuru thought about it.

    Indeed, it might be unnatural to give the names of two lovers to siblings. Their souls mustve united somewhere far away, and they would be eternally happy. By choosing the name Zain for his son, Lukrov had paid his full respects to them.

    If only she could give this girl a different special name

    At that moment, Chizurus mind drifted to her best friend, who had once encouraged her many times and was the only one Chizuru had told her secret history with Lukrov to.

    If youll let me choose

    She had soft, bushy hair, a small nose, and thin eyebrows. The baby looked more like Chizuru, whereas Zain looked like Lukrov.

    The name may sound a bit unusual to the people of this world, but surely Lukrov would happily ept it.

    Their daughters name was

    ***

 Chapter Epilogue 4

    After a while, Zain returned to Lukrov and Chizuru, pulling his sister by the hand.

    The little girl had just turned two years old, and her usual smooth, dark hair that reached below her shoulders was rumpled, and her eyes were brimming with dissatisfaction.

    Fa~ther!!!!

    The little girl reached out her hand towards her father.

    Without a moments hesitation, Lukrov picked up his little girl and pulled her to his chest, and touched her cheek with a gentle gesture that would make even Chizuru jealous.

    Whats the matter, you grumpy little girl?

    I couldnt find anything at all Zain found lots and looooots of things.

    It seemed that she was angry because she didnt find any nuts or berries.

    The daughter, who grumbled with her face buried in Lukrovs chest, was cute despite her young age. It was also expected that she would entice all the men in the country to propose to her when the time came. Of course, as a parent, this made him uneasy. She looked exactly like Chizuru, albeit being loud and a bit stubborn.

    Its okay. Ill find some for you.

    As Lukrov soothed his daughter, Zain replied, Me too! Ill find you some myself!

    Looking back, Lukrov and Chizuru hade a long way.

    Naturally, there were painful moments along the way, and there were even instances when they wanted to give up. But at the same time, there was so much happiness that the pain was overshadowed.

    Mai.

    Chizuru called out to her daughter in a calm voice.

    We cane back together tomorrow. Now, we have to go home before dark. Ill tell you a story before you go to bed.

    Mai looked up, her full smile already shining on her face.

    A story about you and father?

    Yeah, if thats what you want to hear.

    Yes! Tell me the story about how you and Father defeated the bad dragon!

    Both Lukrov and Chizuru smiled at their daughters innocent wish, cherishing the happiness that was right here in their hands and hearts.

    The sun was slowly sinking beyond the horizon, and a fragrant spring breeze blew, rustling the grass.

    On the way home, Lukrov held a sleepy Mai on his shoulder and held Chizurus hand with his other hand.

    Zain ran far ahead of his parents, asionally turning around and waving at them.

    Looking down at Chizuru, Lukrov said quietly, When I am with you, Chizuru, I feel so happy that sometimes I believe this is a dream.

    He squeezed Chizurus hand tightly as she raised her head and looked up at him.

    The knights fearless face, shadowed by the setting sun, disyed the affection he had promised to give her in the past: I shall cherish you more than any woman in this world has ever been loved.

    Me too, Lukrov. Im so happy that sometimes, I feel like Im dreaming.

    Lukrov seemed to be satisfied with Chizurus answer. He pulled Mai back into his arms, lifted Chizurus hand to his lips, and kissed her fingertips gently.

    Then I will continue to dream with you.

    [Epilogue end]

    ***

 Prologue

    PROLOGUE

    It was an intense act of love that resembled a beast falling on its prey.

    Alde quieted her breathing as she slowly lifted the heavy drapes of the tent. The shadows of a man and woman cast by the candlelight were captivating.

    Alde knew well the body of her mistress, whom she had served for a year.

    And yet, it appeared to her that the Knight of ze knew her mistresss body even more. Hisrge, coarse hands caressed her body in earnest. Whenever her mistress let out a surprised gasp of pleasure, his touch would grow aggressive, grasping as if in a rush, petting, licking, pushing her mistress further and further to new heights.

    She would whimper. Implore to the Knight of ze that she could not take any more, but all it did was pour oil over the mes of the knights passion. Her long ck hair would entangle around his arms, his body covered hers as if to protect her from something.

    This act of love continued, the long candle grew shorter and yet it did not end. Alde finally grew tired or peeping and let down the drapes.

    She brushed off the straw from her skirt and stood up on shaky feet, squinting at the darkness around her.

    The campsite that had unfolded here in the forest wasposed of a number of quiet tents.

    There was one man on watch, sitting by the fire, but it seemed that everyone else was asleep.

    A crescent moon hung high in the sky. It was a quiet night.

    But perhaps, within more than a few of the tents, simr deeds of secrecy as she had just witnessed, were being carried out. Imagining such a thing, the young Alde gulped.

    It was a beastly act of courtship, some might even say barbaric.

    But to Aldes eyes, there was something almost mystically beautiful in seeing the bodies of the man and woman together.

    Her mistress thin, delicate body in the arms of that sunburnt, stalwart knights arms. It was an image that would not leave her mind.

    The Knight of ze had called her mistress name over and over again.

    As if saying it would somehow prolong her stay. He seemed to believe such a thing.

    Perhaps that was what prayer really was.

    Everyone had believed that the Knight of ze would never love a woman. He, the proud, independent and powerful knight. A high-born soul that no one could ever touch. And so it was, that the only woman who could take his heart happened to be someone not of this world.

    Chizuru.

    The knight had repeated that name.

    No one knew where it was from, it was an odd name that suggested a far awaynd. Now that the world had been saved, it was her mistress destiny to return to her own world.

    The knight who had saved the world was now writhing in the attempt to save his own soul.

    And so he called her name.

    Dont go anywhere. Stay, dont leave my side. Ill cherish you, Ill love you like no woman in this world has ever been loved.

    And so his prayer continued.

    Chizuru, Chizuru, Chizuru:

 Chapter 1

    Since Our Last Kiss  1

    seAyasehey, Ayase!

    She had been staring dazedly at the photocopier, its mechanical whirring noises were the only thing she heard until finally realizing that someone had called her from behind. Chizuru Ayase raised her head in surprise.

    But she didnt need to turn around to know who it was.

    The person who had called her had alreadye to stand next to her and was looking into her face; quizzically. He wore a spotless, gray suit, smelled faintly of cologne and had a cleanly shaved jaw. The head of this department, Supervisor Karasawa.

    Karasawa was still in his mid-thirties But had a very rxed air about him, was proficient in his work, and was a man with a rather nice physical appearance on top of all that, which made him popr with many of the female employees. But he himself seemed to be the type who did not engage in affairs of love, and there were rarely any rumors about him.

    But that may, in turn, have given some of the women hope.

    Of course, all of this had nothing to do with Chizuru.

    Why are you staring like that? Do you hate the photocopier that much?

    His voice was unnecessarily kind, Chizuru quickly shook her head.

    No, no. Um, I stayed up prettytest night. Im just a little tired from that. Ill finish making copies of the document in a minute.

    Really? In that case

    Karasawa cupped his chin with one hand and continued as if in deep thought. What kept you up sote? I cant remember, but did you have a boyfriend?

    He was clearly trying to act casual about it, but that question was overly abrupt.

    Chizuru pretended to look behind the photocopier as if something had gotten stuck. A little part of her was fleeing from having to look directly at her supervisors face.

    I-Im not seeing anyone. I was watching some foreign dramas that I borrowed from a friend. Then I couldnt stop myself staying up watching them.

    I see.

    She could swear on it. Karasawa was visibly relieved.

    Chizuru, on the other hand, felt a little impatient, and blurted out:

    Um, so what should I do once Im finished with these?

    She had learned that it was best to talk about work when you needed to change the subject in these situations. Especially with men like Karasawa, who were actually capable at work, they were easily distracted.

    Ah, yes. There will be a conference in the afternoon in meeting room 1, so you should prepare for that. As always, set the chairs and documents, and water

    Chizuru quietly listened to his directions, nodding as she waited for the copies to finish printing.

    Once she saw that thest sheet had been rolled out of the machine, she quickly grabbed the stack of A4 documents and moved away from the corner where the photocopier and her supervisor stood.

    But he wasnt going to lose so easily, either. Not that it was a game.

    Ayase, I was just thinking.

    Karasawa was holding the original document that Chizuru had forgotten.

    Ahh, damn it.

    Chizuru cursed the configuration of the machine.

    Ive been thinking Why dont we have dinner some time? Its still early in the month, so there shouldnt be too much work to do, right?

    Chizuru had no choice but to get close to him in order to ept the document. She cautiously epted it and answered.

    Thank you so much for the invitation. But, umI dont really do that kind of

    She did not continue.

    They were both grown adults, that should be all that was needed to get her point across. Karasawa put his now empty hands into his suit pockets and shrugged.

    Is there someone else?

    Thats not it no, yes, thats right.

    She gave a vague answer. Perhaps it would have been better to be blunter about it. But the truth was, Chizuru herself did not know how to exin her situation.

    No one would ever believe her if she told them the truth.

    She herself would sometimes wonder if it had all been a dream.

    Karasawa seemed to be trying his hardest to disguise his hurt expression. He nodded with a slight twitch around his lips.

    In other words, I have little chance

    He was a good person.

    Shethoughtthat he was a good person.

    But, she couldnt. Even though the man was from a world that Chizuru had started to wonder was all a dream, her heart was still bound to him.

    Not even just her heart, but her body.

    Im sorry

    There was nothing else she could say in answer.

    His face remained tight, and his mouth was pressed together to show that he was not satisfied, but at least he nodded back. And without further reply, he left Chizuru and returned to his desk.

    This had been the second time she had experienced something like this since her returnor was it?

    She was still unable to understand where she stood. She was still unable to shake off the feeling of anxiety that she did not belong in this world, in this life.

    She felt empty, sad and lonely.

    Her heart grew heavier and heavier.

    The next Saturday, Chizuru set off to a quiet cemetery on the outskirts of town, in order to visit the tombstone of her grandmother who had passed away a few months ago.

    After switching trains for half an hour, she walked through the unusually warm October sun. On the way, she bought some incense and flowers and soon arrived at the ash-colored tombstone that had Ayase Family Tomb carved onto it.

    Chizuru bent her knees and silently prayed with joined hands before raising her face.

    Grandmother, Im back.

    Of course, there was no reply. But whenever Chizuru would talk to her grandmother like this, she was able to taste a gentle sensation, as if she could return to how her heart was long ago.

    Her grandmother, Kazuyo, was her fathers mother. When Chizurus parents had died in a traffic ident, it was Kazuyo who had taken in the young Chizuru and raised her.

    She was her savior as well as her closest blood-rtive. She was her mother, her grandmother, and her best friend.

    She was kind and gentle, but strong to the core. Chizuru had always looked up to her.

    Whenever Chizuru felt lost in life and could not find the answer, she would consider what her grandmother might have done, and followed that answer. She did so even in that other world.

    In Lukrovs world.

    Yesterday, I was asked out to dinner by this man named Karasawa. Hes quite handsome But I refused him.

    Chizuru smiled for no reason in particr.

    I was right to that, wasnt I? You would have done the same, wouldnt you?

    Her grandmother was also the one person in the world who knew about her secret summer during herst year of high school.

    Now that she was gone, the secret would be forgotten forever, with the exception of what remained within Chizuru.

    She stayed there in front of the tombstone for a while, telling her grandmother of things that werent really important. Then she finally returned by the path she hade and went home.

    The following Sunday was also her day off from work. Chizuru had it easy, as she was a contract worker and not a regr employee.

    Her residence was her own house, instead of a rented apartment, and she was not the type to waste money.

    As Chizuru had not aplished anything during her summer vacation, she ultimately decided to start working instead of going to university. But these days, there were not manypanies who would employ people who hadnt graduated from university, so Chizuru felt quite lucky that she was able tond in the position of a contract worker.

    Also, she felt as if somewhere deep inside, she had a wish to not get too deeply involved in this worldprobably.

    She had no idea how she could return, but she could not give up hope.

    It couldnt possibly just end this way.

    So yeah, I totally rmend them! It was hard to choose because there were so many, but I chose the books that I liked the most and brought them with me. Dont forget to return them when youre done.

    Ah, thanks But, I think thats too much.

    Well, I tried my hardest to keep the number down. But each book has there own appeal, you know. Western settings, Chinese settings, reincarnation, no reincarnation, the ones where they start as the underdog are especially satisfying. But then so are the ones where theyre immediately treated like a princess!

    Hmm, right.

    It was like listening to a foreignnguage that you only partially understood. Chizuru chimed in just to keep the conversation going.

    It was in the early afternoon, and Chizuru had asked Mai, her old friend from high school, to have lunch with her. As soon as they had settled in their seats, Mai had whispered about bringing what we spoke of and then pulled out a stack of more than ten books.

    In fact, when scheduling this lunch by phone, Mai had casually mentioned, an interest in novels about being summoned to other worlds.

    Not understanding what she meant, Chizuru had asked what that was, and was told that it was about an ordinary girl from Japan being taken to an unfamiliar fantasy world, and things happen. It was a recently popr genre in fiction.

    Chizuru had lost her voice when she heard this.

    In all honesty, she was never much of a reader.

    At best, she would asionally read novels that had been adapted to film, best-selling thrillers that anyone else would read. But her heart started to beat faster when she heard Mai talk about these new books.

    When Chizuru had asked for further information, Mai readily offered to lend her the books, so they could talk about them together when she was finished.

    Chizuru epted her offer.

    Which led to the current scene.

    The mountain of books on the table all had glittery illustrations on their covers, making them resembleics. There were even a few that might require a little boldness to pick up. They were undoubtedly pretty, but Chizuru felt that she would probably hesitate if she were at a bookstore.

    Mai herself had said that she bought most of them online.

    It was really by chance. I borrowed one book from my cousin and became obsessed. I thought it would be more childish or for nerds, but once I started reading it, I realized that there are plenty that are quite decent. Now Im hooked. You should read them too, Chizu. I want to talk about them with someone!

    Mai began to look at the menu while Chizuru tried flipping through the pages of one of the books.

    She had not known there would be so many in this genre.

    Some of them had outlines that were rather shocking This is almost like

    What is it? Are you surprised?

    Mais face appeared from above the menu as she cocked her head to the side.

    Oh, nothing, no. Ill give it a go then. I think Ill be able to return them to you by next week.

    You dont need to rush. I have more, so you can borrow them whenever you want.

    Thanks. Im looking forward to it.

    It wasnt that she was expecting anything.

    She did not have any hope of one of these books showing her a way to return to Lukrov.

    And yet.

    And yet

 Chapter 2

    Since Our Last Kiss  2

    Chizuruy on the living room sofa as she finished the third volume by the light of the small tablemp. The pain had grown so strong in her that she finally closed her eyes.

    She ced the finished book on the floor as she faced the ceiling with her eyes still closed tightly.

    AhhI should not have borrowed these books if this was to be the result. I should not have read them.

    She regretted it now, but the weight that she felt on her chest was real, it was much toote to remove it now, but neither could she ignore it. There were five simr books still stacked on top of the table.

    These were stories about girls, much like herself, who had suddenly been sent to worlds that were very different from their everyday lives.

    And in those words, the girls would fall in love with someone.

    Her eyes had be tired from reading in the dim room, and she massaged them in an attempt to relieve them of stress. Part of it was also to hold back the tears that threatened to pour from her eyes.

    But when she slowly opened them, her vision was already distorted by tears.

    Lukrov Im sorry.

    Chizuru quietly whispered in the empty room, where no one would hear her.

    They were stories set far away, in ces known as other worlds, and were about young men who fall in love and the girls they are united with. And no matter what obstacles appeared before them, in the end, they would find happiness as if it were the most normal thing.

    She herself had walked the same path up to a point.

    The difference for her was the ending.

    Chizurus eyes suddenly caught the rm clock that stood on top of the tall cupboard.

    It was almost 9 pm.

    Today was a Wednesday.

    She thought of Mai then. Unlike Chizuru who had started working right after graduating high school, Mai was still in her first year of university. Of course, she had her sses, but she was not as restricted as most in society. She had plenty of time during the morning. She also attended from home, so she did not need to prepare breakfast.

    Chizuru stretched her hand out to grab her phone whichy next to the stack of books. She stared nkly at the screen for a while as she fought with something within her. And then she decided. Mai would have surely done the same if she were in her position.

    Chizuru pressed Mais number.

    Mais voice came on the other end before the third ring had finished.

    Hello? What is it Chizu?

    By the time it was a little past 9 pm, Mai and Chizuru were already sitting on the same carpet and facing each other.

    Mai had sounded quite sleepy at first, but she told her parents that she would be staying at Chizurus house. Now she was rxing on the floor with one of Chizurus pillows hugged above her knees. Both of them had visited each others houses like this during high school, and so it waspletely natural for them.

    On the other hand, Chizuru was sitting facing Mai with her legs folded to the side.

    Hey, Chizu. If theres something you want to say, hurry up and say it.

    Mai said as she pressed her chin against the pillow. Her tone was a mixture of worry and a desire to go to sleep. Youll feel better. You have a bad habit of overthinking things. Ill listen to whatever you have to say.

    Y-yes Of course, thats why I asked you toe here

    Chizuru looked quite nervous as she fidgeted with the hairs of the carpet at her feet. Indeed, she had called Mai over for the purpose of telling her everything. Even though it may have been because she had just finished reading one of the books, she had still had the resolve to do it. But she hadnt considered how she would bring it up. Chizuru stared hard at her fingertips for a while and thought.

    Well I dont think youll believe it. Youll think that there is something wrong with me, be annoyed, perhapsbut, youll listen, wont you?

    There was a slight tremble in Chizurus voice.

    Mai squashed her trademark baby face halfway into the pillow.

    What is it? Do you finally have a man now? Is that it?

    A man Actually, depending on your perspective, that was indeed what she wanted to talk about. Chizurus cheeks flushed a little and she nodded.

    Bingo! I knew that would be the case! I guess that really does happen earlier for people who work. Okay, so who is it? Someone at thepany? Is he older than you?

    Mais face had nowe out of the pillow and she excitedly fired question after question.

    N-no. Its different. Today Im um, this is not about the present. I want to tell you about something that happened a long time ago And

    A long time ago?

    Yes. Its not about anyone from work. It happened during high school.

    But there was never even a shadow of a man in your life during high school. Though there were plenty who wished.

    Mai seemed a little annoyed and slightly hurt. They had been close friends since that time, they had hardly ever hidden anything from each other. It was not too surprising that she would feel betrayed.

    Im sorry I never told you. But

    As Chizuru stumbled on her words, Mai seemed to have guessed at something as her face suddenly turned serious.

    I knew it. It was that summer vacation. Wasnt it? You made up that story about fighting with your grandmother and running to a rtives house.

    Ye-yes

    Chizuru Ayase and the third year summer vacation.

    It was a famous story.

    Chizuru, who was known for her looks and for being a model student had suddenly gone missing, then reappeared one monthter. Chizuru hade up with the story with her grandmother and told everyone that they had fought over how she would spend the summer and ultimately went to a faraway rtives house. It was quite the forced coverup considering that this incident had even led to a police search.

    So there was a man involved. But, why did you go to such lengths to hide it? Was it an affair? Was he a scumbag?

    An affairno, no! It wasnt like that at all. Lukrov was very good to me. He was kind and I could never imagine that he would have an affair

    She said that much before stopping with an Ah.

    Rukurofu?

    Mais eyebrows furrowed. Was he a foreigner?

    A foreignerwell, he was not Japanese, butbut you wouldnt call him that either.

    Undocumented? Or was he part of an international crime syndicate? A terrorist? Is that why you kept it a secret? Woah, I had not imagined it would be anything like that.

    Mais imagination ran wild as her eyes bulged. Chizuru frantically shook her head.

    No! Calm down. I will tell it to you from the beginning, so just calm down a little and listen.

    Uh, okay.

    She answered in the affirmative, but Mai was still clearly over-excited. Chizuru nced towards the stack of books that were on the floor. Summoned to Another World. Talking about her and Lukrovs story would be just as long and eventful, no, more so than any of those volumes.

    But, she had to tell it.

    To confirm what was in her heart, but also to quiet those feelings. She felt that she would have to tell everything.

    But more than anything, she wanted someone to hear it.

    I, I had gone to another world. It wasnt a different country, but a world in another dimension Just like in the books that you lent me, I had found myself in another world

    And there I met Lukrov.

    We fell in love, we adventured together, fought victoriously and saved the kingdom But then I came back.

 Chapter 3

    Since Our Last Kiss  3

    By the time that Chizuru had finished her story, the clock showed that it was two oclock in the morning. And all of the noise from the surrounding buildings had died down.

    Woah

    Mai threw the pillow that she was hugging to the side. Her cheeks had be flushed with excitement. Her drowsiness had long since disappeared. Re-really? Are you sure it wasnt some strange dream you had because of the books you borrowed from me?

    Uhuh. Though, there are times that I wish that it really was just a dream.

    Chizuru answered with a sad smile. It was partly true and partly a lie.

    She had never thought that it would have been better if the time she spent with Lukrov was a dream. But since returning alone to this world like this, with her grandmother gone, and having to return to this normal life Like when she had someone like Karasawa in front of her. Those were the times that she felt things would be so much easier if it had all been a dream.

    After reading those books you lent me, I just didnt know what to do with myself. It made me feel like telling someone no matter what.

    Uh, huh.

    Im sorry that I kept this from you But I thought that you would never believe me.

    In fact, Mai still hadnt epted Chizurus story as the truth.

    Herrge, adorable eyes were blinking rapidly as she stared at her. Chizuru understood how she must feel, that was why she had kept this a secret for so long, in spite of them being best friends.

    No matter how pleasant something may appear in a novel, having that reality thrust before your eyes would show you the many hardships of the world. Having to ept all of that was neither pleasant nor dreamlike.

    Ill believe you I believe you Chizuru. I wouldnt believe it if it came from anyone else, but Ill believe it from you.

    When Mais voice finally broke the long silence, it had an uncertain ring to it, as if she were trying to convince herself. But she wasnt lying. Chizuru was relieved and gently patted Mai on the shoulder.

    Thank you. For listening.

    Come on, thats nothing to thank me for.

    Maybe not. But Im d that you believe me.

    Oh, right. But

    It was as if there were too many things she wanted to say, too many questions to ask. Mai looked up at the ceiling and took her time as she chose her next words. This Lukrov guy. Im sure that he must have really loved you. I wonder what he has been doing since you disappeared.

    Chizuru felt her insides tense as she heard this innocent question.

    I dont know Maybe, he has already forgotten about me.

    Dont be stupid. Even you know that that is a lie.

    He, he wasnt a womanizer, but he attracted attention from them. And the women in that world were very beautiful. Perhaps he just saw me as an oddity and was humoring me.

    Even while she was there, there were times when such doubts entered her heart.

    With that said, Chizuru was treated well by not just Lukrov, but her otherrades. But what if that was only because of her calling? As for Lukrov What if his interest had sprouted from curiosity, and that had only grown into something that resembled love.

    She had been so important to him, that such thoughts would start to enter her mind.

    Because it was almost unreal.

    But perhaps the idea of trying to separate events that felt real or unreal in another world was a mistake.

    Thats not possible. Not that I actually saw anything, but Im sure you are wrong. You always talk about things too modestly. It makes me think that things were much more intense than you said.

    Mai rejected Chizurus uncertainty with finality.

    Um Well, that

    Thinking back. He wasnt called the Knight of ze for nothing.

    Normally, he was calm to the point of appearing cold, but when he entered the field, he would transform. Like a ravenous fire licking the drnds. His love was no different. Chizuru had seen him as a cold man with no interest in women, but then

    Youre probably right

    Several memories raced through her mind and Chizuru felt her cheeks flush.

    The temperature of her body had risen suddenly. While so far away, he was still able to have an effect on her. That was how intense he could be.

    I see, I see. Wow.

    Mai said as if guessing what she was thinking. Then she got up and sat right next to Chizuru. So, what do you want to do? Do you want him to stay a memory? Or do youwant to return?

    As she got closer, Chizuru could smell a scent from around Mais neck.

    It was the soap scented cologne that Mai had used since high school. A mild but sweet, nostalgic scent.

    Chizuru felt a sense of guilt and looked to the floor.

    I want to returnI think. Now that grandma has passed away, there is no reason left for me to stay Of course, I would be sad if I couldnt meet you anymore.

    There was a long silence before Mai mumbled, I see.

    Yeah, I know. I think that I would feel the same if I were you. It will be sad to not meet you or my family anymore, but

    But.

    But, that was what it meant to fall in love with someone.

    There were times when your love for someone held a greater power than anything else in the world. As a woman, Mai understood her feelings. Neither of them said anything else, but deep down, they understood each other.

    I guess the problem is how you are going to get back. When you heard that voice, was it in a specific ce or situation?

    No, nothing like that. It was always sudden, like it just slid into my head.

    And its a womans voice?

    Uhh, you might hear it like that, but sometimes it sounded like a manas well. It was a very androgynous voice. You know, like those machines that change your voice through a microphone. It sounds a little unreal, and unnatural.

    Hmm

    The time was now past two oclock in the morning, but neither of them was tired.

    Chizuru was thinking back on the mysterious voice that had called her to the other world. It was the summer of herst year in high school. Three times she had heard this voice calling to her before she had actually gone. And one year ago, in the other world, she had again heard the voice. It had asked her if she wished to return.

    Return to her original world, where her grandmother had worried about her so much, that her heart disease had worsened.

    The voice told her that this was her only chance to return. Thinking about her grandmother, her own family, Chizuru had nodded her ascent without thinkingon that fateful day.

    She did not even have time to say goodbye to Lukrov.

    Since then, I have not heard that voice even once. But still, I cant help but feel that things wont end this way. But maybe it is just a wishful thought. But,

    But, she couldnt forget it.

    His sad eyes whenst she saw him.

    She didnt want that as memory.

    Thatst kiss they shared that was so gentle.

 Chapter 4

    Calling  1

    Mai ended up falling asleep on the mattress after a while, and so Chizuruy down next to her and stared through the darkness at the small light bulb in the ceiling.

    The small two-room apartment appeared faintly in her vision.

    There was her bed, and while the room looked modern, there was a small table that doubled as a kotatsu. She had a tv and refrigerator as well. A calendar hung on the wall. All of these things were a part of her daily life.

    And yet, before she knew what was happening, all of these things began to feel foreign to her. Especially on nights like these, where memories of Lukrov would return to her.

    In that other world, the culture was something that would be called medieval back here.

    There was no electricity, no cars, no running water, and of course no methods of transmitting information such as television or the inte. The only thing they had was animal hide that was used like paper to write on. And many people could not even read.

    As wasmon in the western world during the middle ages, there was rank and ss and knighthood. Lukrov himself had originated as the heir of a baron. War had made an orphan of him, and he had made himself a knight who could stand alone.

    And so when she had first met him, she saw a youth with eyes so sharp and a face so severe, that just touching him seemed like it would cut your skin.

    His hair was jet ck, as were his eyes. His facial features were angr and while he had the overall appearance of a western man, his skin was quite tanned. His height How tall had he been? She did not even know if they had units for measuring a persons height there. But she thought that it must be close to 185 cm. A head taller the Chizuru.

    Thinking back now, she did not know his birthday, his blood type

    It made her realize just how full of information the modern world she lived in was. Things were much more primitive in the other world. When people loved each other, having each others bodies was enough. There was no ritual dating.

    Lukrov had epted her, and she had shown him what she was capable of.

    A thrill had run through their core like electricityand it was the beginning of everything. She doubted that Lukrov had ever considered watching her from afar, or worried about being rejected.

    You are the one I chose.

    With those words alone, he swore eternal love. Like a wolf who has found his mate.

    And yet, there wasfort in the way he loved. Without shame or dishonor, an unending desire led by his soul and his instincts That kind of love.

    She was sure that in this world, at least in modern Japan, that being loved in that way and loving in turn, was not possible. The very way that people lived was too different. It was as obvious as anything.

    The sky was covered in a dark cloud on the following day. Mai had checked the weather report on her phone before leaving and said that there would be strong rain from the afternoon on.

    Chizuru put on a beige cardigan and a modest ck skirt and white shirt before heading out to work, a littleter than usual. Employees were allowed to dress casually. It was an open environment where men did not have to wear suits during the summer, but Chizuru did not pay as much attention to fashion as the other women who worked here.

    She felt that as long as you did not stray too far from what was current and kept yourself clean, then that was enough. She also felt no need to attract the opposite sex, and so she did the bare minimum in terms of makeup.

    And yet men like Karasawa, her superior, would still appear now and again.

    She was not always aware of it, but Chizuru did have the kind of pretty face that drew more attention than most. Her height was not too short and not too tall. Her body was slender and yet full where it mattered. To put it inly, she was on the popr side.

    Chizuru made sure that the fold-up umbre was inside of her bag as she rushed into herpanies building. But just as she passed the automatic doors at the entrance, she felt a sudden sense of vertigo.

    (What?)

    Perhaps it was anemia from ack of sleep.

    She felt dizzy as her head swayed to the side, then a numbing sensation shot up her limbs. Chizuru had always had low blood pressure, so these symptoms would asionally appear during the morning. She had been so absorbed in her talk with Mai, that she had only gotten a few hours of sleep. That must have been the reason, she thought.

    However, when she managed to stand still and lean her head against the frame of the entrance, a sudden ringing pierced into her ears out of nowhere.

    There was something otherworldly about it. It existed only in Chizurus head, this sharp echo that merged with the bustling noises of the office building.

    (Was this)

    Chizurus heart pounded with undisguised excitement.

    She remembered this feeling. She remembered this sound

    (This, this!)

    Without thinking, she pressed her palms against her ears as she tried to calm her impatient breathing. And still, the familiar and mysterious sound continued to echo in her head. Not only that, but it seemed to be getting louder. It was so strong that she knew she could not be imagining it.

    At the same time, other employees and office workers who wereing inte saw her. They nced with suspicious eyes as Chizuru stood there, but they left her alone. None of them could hear.

    Yes, she remembered it.

    It was like this the first time. After this sharp ringing, a voice would follow

    Chizuru

    Hey, Ayase!?

    The sound stopped. Just like a bubble that has abruptly burst.

    At the same time, someones hand was firmly on her shoulder, and Chizuru raised her head frantically. And then she saw that Karasawa was standing next to her, his eyebrows narrowed in an expression of concern. His head was tilted to the side as he peered into her face.

    Oh

    Chizuru breathed without thinking.

    What is it? Why are you standing here this morning? Does your head hurt?

    There was an exaggerated concern in his voice. A white shirt and gray necktie peeked out from his dark blue suit. The faint remnants of morning aftershave floated in the air. Chizuru felt herself being pulled back to reality.

    S-sorry. I uh, a friend slept over at my cest night. I didnt get much sleep Its just a slight headache.

    She hadnt lied.

    But she hadnt told the whole truth either.

    She straightened her posture and forced a smile. Karasawa stared at her as if considering whether or not he was satisfied by this exnation. But he finally shrugged in defeat.

    Do you want to go to the medical office?

    Uh, no. It is really just a mild headache. I have low blood pressure. It happens sometimes. Im fine now.

    If you think so

    Karasawas hand lightly touched her back as if pushing her. Well go up together. Dont faint on me, alright?

    Chizuru cringed when she felt therge hand on her back. But before she could move away from him, he had adeptly maneuvered her towards the elevator.

    There were many around them, and it was possible that he was genuinely concerned about her state. But still, Chizuru felt something warm when he touched her back. Something like affection or passion.

    The voice was long gone.

    The familiar chime of the elevator indicated that it had arrived, and the door opened. Chizuru and Karasawa entered the box as if being sucked into the crowd of people inside.

    At the moment before the doors closed, Chizuru looked over the other shoulders towards the entrance of the building, her stare was full of longing.

    What had that been, just now?

    It was just like the feeling she had had on the summer ofst year. But it was so brief.

    Was this just her imagination ying tricks on her after the excitement of telling Mai her story? Or was it?

 Chapter 5

    Calling - 2

    Trantor: Hello. This is Jawbrie from Tiger Trantions. I have decided to split my site into two. So Josei rted series will be hosted here from now on. Hopefully, this will mean faster releases. I hope you do not mind the initial inconvenience. Thank you and enjoy!

    It was a twelve story building, and thepany that Chizuru worked for took up the entire eighth floor. When the electronic disy showed an 8, Chizuru got off of the elevator as if she was being led by Karasawa.

    There was a frosted ss door at the entrance, and Karasawa opened it for her.

    Thank you. But I am fine now.

    Even if he was just being nice, she did not want any more of his attention. And so she thanked him after walking through the door and tried to move away. She could see that the other employees had arrived, and were going about their work. Several people whose desks were located near the entrance greeted them.

    Karasawa was quite popr, and as a female employee, she didnt want people to misunderstand their rtionship by seeing them together. Chizuru quickly returned their greetings before rushing to her own desk.

    There was a stack of documents that needed to be sorted or copied on her desk. And it seemed that she would need to forget everything that happened and focus on her work, at least until lunchtime.

    Still, she could not forget the voice that she had heard. Chizuru sat in her chair as she pulled out her phone from her bag. She typed in a short message to Mai.

    --Thank you for visitingst night. I was d that you listened.

    I dont know if I was hearing things, but I heard something that sounded like that voice just now.

    Am I just over excited What do you think?--

    She looked at the clock and saw that Mais ss would probably have already started, and yet she received a reply within minutes.

    --Really!? That might be some kind of omen!

    You heard it more than once the first time, didnt you?

    Maybe you will hear it again

    You better tell me if it happens again!--

    Chizuru quickly typed in an affirmation and closed her phone.

    She could not help but sigh as she returned the phone to her bag. She would now concentrate on the work in front of her. If she didn''t, that excitement that was rising from deep within her would drive her crazy.

    Thankfully, Chizuru was a contract worker, which meant that most of her duties involved misceneous tasks that she could get through with machine-like movements. Normally this would have felt tedious to her, but she was grateful for it now. Carrying out orders without much thought allowed her head to cool down a little.

    (What it...what if I really could return?)

    She kept thinking about this as she typed into theputer.

    It had been a little over a year since Chizuru had returned to this world.

    During that time, she had to deal with matters rted to the missing person search on top of taking care of her sick grandmother, that she didnt have time to worry about getting back. She still had to finish school, and it was no time to fall into a depression.

    Her grandmother had passed away shortly after graduation, and she had started working immediately after. The unfamiliar job had kept her busy for the first month or two It was only recently that she had begun to slowly think back on her memories with Lukrov and that world.

    But no matter how much she had hoped to return, she hadnt had much time to clearly imagine what would happen if that wish came true.

    Lukrov

    She had be close with many people during her year in that world. She would have called some of them her friends. But it was Lukrov alone, who she would abandon her own world to meet again.

    But, was he waiting for her?

    She had not even promised to return to him. They had only been together for one year. How long would he wait for her?

    He had loved her.

    And he was not the kind of man who would forget a woman who he had fallen in love with.

    But there was a good chance that he would be angry with her for disappearing without saying anything. She had not meant anything by it, but it would not be surprising if he felt that it was a betrayal.

    Hello, I have returned and am d to see you. Lets continue to be together. It would likely not be so easy.

    In fact, there wasnt even a guarantee that she would be able to return straight to him. The first time, Lukrov and the others had found the shocked Chizuru when she had been suddenly thrust into their world.

    But this time?

    Unlike this world, there werent even any established home addresses. You could definitely not use phones to locate people. Even ordinary maps were difficult to find.

    Thinking about all of this now, she started to see that things would not immediately turn into a happy ending even if she could return. Of course, she had the resolve to pay whatever the price was. She did not balk at the idea of having to find him and do what was necessary to earn his forgiveness.

    But all of that could only happen if she returned.

    Suddenly, something that she had never considered before appeared in the back of her mind. Her hands paused above the keyboard.

    (A year and a few months...)

    That was how much time had passed since her return.

    (But, I had been in that world for one year, yet only a month had passed when I returned...that means...)

    Wait. Wait. Chizuru tried to stop herself as her mind began to calcte. But the answer came too quickly.

    If one month here equaled one year over there, and precisely one year and two months had passed, that meant that at least fourteen years had passed in that world. She had not kept a journal or counted the days, she was not even sure that one year in that world was also 365 days, but the seasons were simr, and the people had defined that time as a year.

    (Fourteen years?)

    And that was only if she could return right now.

    If she could return, but it took an additional month, that would mean that fifteen years had passed. Fifteen years. So many years for a person you had only spent one year with...a lover whose departure could only have seemed like a betrayal in his eyes. What man could stay devoted?

    Fifteen years was so long.

    During that time, he had been four years older than Chizuru. Twenty-two. That would make him thirty-six now. Considering that the world was simr to the middle ages, it would not be surprising for him to be married. She remembered thatmoners were especially known to marry early and have children.

    She could leave everything in this world behind in order to return, only to find that Lukrov had married, had children. Chizuru could be nothing but a distant memory, whose sudden appearance would be a nuisance. That would not be strange. No, it was the most natural thing.

    However it was a world that was so different than hers, it was possible that this warping of time was just a coincidence. Perhaps it changed every time.

    But.

    Chizuru felt her eyes sting as she stared at the screen.

    Her fingers couldn''t move.

    (But...still...)

    If Chizuru did hear the voice again, she would answer.

    Even if it all ended with her seeing that Lukrov was happy with someone else, she wanted to apologize for leaving him without a word. Chizuru would throw herself back into that world, just for a chance to tell him.

    (Im such an idiot...)

    But, perhaps that was what love was.

    That was what it meant to love someone with your whole heart

    Her hands had not helped her much that day, and so when she was finally finished and thinking about going home, it was already dark outside. She hadnt been conscious of it at all, but it was also raining now.

    She looked around the office floor and saw that more than half of the people had gone home.

    "I finished up, so I am going home. Was there anything else you needed?"

    She asked one of her female superiors who sat a few desks away from her. The woman said that there wasnt anything in particr and kindly released Chizuru. Not only that, but she even thanked Chizuru for continuing to workter than the others. A lot of the employees here were quite young, and so it was an overall rxed environment. She felt blessed.

    She waster than usual, but not sote that she worried about missing thest train, and so Chizuru slowly got her things together and left the office.

    The elevator was empty as she got in this time. When she reached the first floor, Chizuru pulled out the portable umbre she kept in her bag and looked at the entrance.

    There she saw the back of a man who was pacing in front of the door, just barely out of range of the sensors of the automatic door. He looked out at the rain and shrugged.

    Karasawa?

    Chizuru called to him, and he swiftly turned around as if propelled by a spring.

    When his eyes caught her, his expression looked stunned and a little entranced as he took her in.

    She could have just said goodbye and walked passed him...but regardless of his motives, he had shown concern over her that morning, and it didnt feel right to abandon him.

    You dont have an umbre?

    Ah...I was a littlete this morning, and so I was in a rush. I forgot to bring one.

    Chizuru herself had beente ining to work this morning. He had been down here with her, so he must have beenter than usual.

    It was a five-minute walk from their building to the nearest station. They would pass through busy streets with lots of people, and there was a convenience store at the station where he could buy an umbre.

    Chizuru weighed her good intentions with her own safety and decided that this was not too much to ask.

    This is quite small as it is a portable umbre...but will you share it with me to the station?

    Karasawa looked surprised at this idea.

    There was a short pause before he answered. Ultimately, he gave a slight nod and said, That would be great. And he took a step closer to her.

 Chapter 6

    Calling - 3

    Taking a step outside proved that the rain was much harsher than it had appeared from behind the ss windows.

    However, the wind itself was not too bad, which meant that the rain would not hit you from the sides. When Chizuru opened the umbre and gestured for Karasawa to move under it, he took the handle from her and carried it himself.

    Um, I can hold it

    "Oh, but I am much taller. I won''t be able to turn my neck if you hold it. So allow me."

    Indeed, Karasawa was on the tall side, and Chizuru was more on the average side. She would have to hold the umbre quite high to avoid him having to lower his head. She felt that there was little point in being stubborn when this would be over in five minutes. And so she gave her consent, and they began to walk.

    The rainwater flowed over the asphalt roads, creating fantastical reflections of the neon city lights, which numerous cars busily drove over.

    The sidewalk was protected by a guard rail, as people flowed down to the station on their way back from work, holding their colorful umbres.

    This really was a world of convenience...Chizuru thought dully.

    Lukrov''s world, of course, did not have streets paved in asphalt. During the worst rainfalls, you could not walk without getting covered in mud up to your knees. They did not even have umbres, so you had the choice of either going out and getting wet or staying under a roof until it stopped.

    One time he

    Why are youughing, Ayase?

    Uh.

    He suddenly asked, and Chizuru looked up in surprise. And then she realized that she had been chuckling over a memory. Her cheeks flushed.

    S-sorry. I just thought of something amusing.

    Is that right?

    Karasawa did not seem irritated by this, but Chizuru suddenly felt awkward. And she felt that she should change the subject. She knew that frantically running your mouth under these circumstances tended to have unfortunate results, but sometimes you couldnt stop it.

    Chizuru quickly scanned her surroundings for a topic to bring up.

    There was a small Italian restaurant with a sign a dozen meters away.

    Uh, that ce over there has really great food. Its quite small, but the ce is always packed during lunch hours.

    Oh?

    "It just happened to be empty recently, so I went inside. It''s very nice and"

    Hmm, I didnt know that.

    He said with interest as he looked through the menu that was written on the sign. Ayase, are you hungry? I really would like to eat right now.

    Uh, I, I dont really

    If she was honest, she was, in fact, hungry. She would have dly sumbed to the lure of some delicious pasta and a sd, but she wanted to avoid the direction that she knew this was going, and so she lied. Ahh, so stupid. How could she talk about restaurants when they were on their way back from work?

    And so it was no surprise when Karasawa pointed this out.

    It is your fault for talking about food at this hour! Ill pay for you, so please indulge me. I cant enter an Italian restaurant alone. Lets just see if they have any empty tables.

    Bu-but, uh

    She wanted to object, but it was Karasawa who held the umbre. And so when he changed direction, she had no choice but to follow him. Before she knew it, they were both standing in front of a building covered in white tiles. The first floor was the restaurant, the second was a beauty parlor and the third floor was awyer''s office with a stern-sounding name. A small andpletely normal looking building.

    She squinted through the ss passed the droplets of rain, and saw that while more than half of the tables were upied, that there were still some that were empty.

    Karasawa

    She began her final protest, but he had already started to open the door.

    The wet bell let out a dry ring at it opened. They immediately heard a cheery greeting echo from inside. Chizuru was the type of person who would feel bad about leaving after hearing that.

    Dont look so worried. Im not going to eat you. Im just hungry, and you liked this ce. There just happened to be empty tables. So stick with me for a while.

    Karasawa smiled with thisst push. Chizuru started to feel like it would be stupid to resist any further. Perhaps the inviting smell that came from inside had something to do with it.

    And so she followed him inside.

    Dark wooden tables and chairs lined the interior of the restaurant. The overall appearance of the ce was unified in a rxed, European taste.

    A single waitress in a ck apron was busily moving from table to table. There were two rmendations that day, and Karasawa and Chizuru each picked one and returned the menu. The waitress also suggested some wine, but Chizuru politely declined. Karasawa did not object to this.

    When the waitress left them, they stayed silent for a while as they faced each other.

    I...am sorry that I forced you in here. And you only just rejected me recently.

    It was Karasawa who opened his mouth first as he folded his hands on the table. Chizuru stayed silent but shook her head as if to say that it was nothing. He smiled weakly but nodded as if relieved.

    They were silent again, but the ce was so lively that it didnt bother them too much.

    Karasawa was looking at their surroundings.

    ces like this can be nice and rxing. I only eat ramen or beef bowls when Im out alone, so this is quite refreshing for me.

    This time, he sounded much more casual and happy. Chizuru couldnt help but chuckle along.

    You eat ramen all alone?

    Of course. Being single can be lonely. And I dont have a girlfriend to make me lunch.

    There are many women in thepany who would be interested. I know it.

    Is that right

    Karasawa had the kind of conflicted expression, as if he didnt know if he shouldugh or feel depressed. He looked away from her. ...I suppose you arent one of them.

    It was a low mumble, like he was talking to himself. But Chizuru heard it clearly.

    If...if she had no memories of Lukrov, perhaps she would have been one of those women who wished for Karasawas attention. That was how appealing he was. But.

    I am sorry

    She said as she looked down. It was just as the waitress returned to bring them their cutlery.

    Its fine. I knew that already Im just acting a little stubborn. Im the one who should apologize. I wont bring this up again, so lets talk as normal colleagues.

    Chizuru slowly raised her head to see that he was smiling gently.

    The head manager and a contract worker are hardly colleagues.

    Ah, we are not that kind ofpany. We work in the same office and receive our sry from the same boss. Were colleagues. I used to be a contract worker myself.

    Is that true?

    And with that, the air of formality crumbled, and the two of themughed. Perhaps it was because they had ordered the special, but their food also arrived early. And Chizuru was able to enjoy her dinner with a feeling of safety as she listened to Karasawas memories of joining thepany.

    At some point, the conversation shifted to talk of Karasawas former girlfriend. It was when they had finished eating, and were drinking their coffee or tea.

    Surprisingly, he had only dated one woman up until now. And that rtionship had naturally ended when they started working.

    "One day I couldn''t get in contact with her anymore. We were hardly meeting once work started. I suppose it couldn''t be helped"

    Karasawa said with a shrug.

    Chizuru was not sure what she should say.

    She wasn''t perplexed by what he was saying. He was only rying an old story as if it were amusing. However, his reaction now had made her feel something. Like she had been stabbed in the heart.

    ...Can I...ask you something?

    Before she had time to really think, the question poured out of her mouth.

    Huh?

    If a woman that you loved, suddenly disappeared...what would you think? Were you angry, or sad or

    Karasawas eyes widened in surprise. He stared at her. He thought about it for a while, then answered slowly, as if carefully choosing his words.

    At first, yes I was dumbstruck. It didnt feel real to me. It was all a joke, and tomorrow, everything would return to normal as if nothing had ever happened.

    ...

    When the reality sank in and I understood the situation, I was angry for a long time I think. But that feeling didntst. I was so lonely. It was more loneliness than sadness.

    Every word that Karasawa spoke seemed to stab through her chest.

    Karasawa and Lukrov werepletely different in personality, the world they lived in and the way that they thought. But with a simr experience, the answer that one man gave her felt painfully real to Chizuru. Just thinking about how Lukrov might have felt the same made it difficult for her to breath.

    How long?

    Hm?

    How long, how long were you able to stay in love with her after you separated?

    It might have been because her face was so serious. Karawas shoulders became stiff and his mouth tightened.

    It could not be a fun memory to have to recall, but he looked at her and appeared to be trying to remember. And then.

    "...I promised not to talk about this anymore. But to be honest, I think that I was dragging this with me until I saw you. In other words, until I fell in love again."

    Chizuru barely remembered what they talked about after that.

    She had a vague memory of Karasawa acting as if his confession had not happened, and talking pleasantly about other things. But all of what was said had cleanly passed through one ear and gone out the other.

    As he had promised, he acted like a gentleman until the end. And when they finished, the two of them walked to the station together. The rain had died down a little now. He bought one of the few remaining umbres at the convenience store near the station, and they said goodbye and went their separate ways.

    She swayed alone on the train, arrived at her stop, left the ticket gate and opened her umbre...and then it happened. Tears filled Chizurus eyes.

    (Until I fell in love again...)

    In the other world, where fifteen years might have already passed. Had Lukrov fallen in love again?

    In Chizurus mind, she saw his hand touch the cheek of a woman she did now know. His deep voice whispered softly into the womans ear.

    Her heart shouted in denial, and she tightly gripped the handle of her umbre. The rain made it difficult to see, clouding her vision even further.

    --Just then.

    She was assaulted by a powerful ringing in her ears. Chizurus umbre dropped to the ground.

    At the same time, she felt a wave of dizziness that made it hard to stand. The ringing wouldnt stop, no, it was getting louder. Her head throbbed with pain.

    It was just like this morning.

    It was the same sensation, the same mysterious sound that had led her to Lukrovs world, and had taken her from it.

    Take...me

    She pleaded with a trembling voice. Take me! Take me back to Lukrov!

    The passersby looked at her oddly as she seemed to talk to herself. But she didnt care.

    Chizu...ru

    From somewhere far away, she heard the voice.

    Her eyes filled with tears once again, but this time with a different emotion.

    Will you...return Will...you...save...him...this time

    I will! Let me! I will save the kingdom, the world, anything, but please take me back to Lukrov!

    She had a feeling that she would never get a chance again if she missed this one It was the same resolve she had when she had returned to her sick grandmother.

    However, unlike that time, there was no uncertainty. Her only regret was that she could not say anything to Mai before leaving her forever. But everything else meant nothing to her.

    Take me back!

    Yes. It was right after she shouted into the sky of a ce unknown.

    Her vision suddenly filled with golden light, her body began to float...and just like that, she was swallowed up by light and became unconscious.

 Chapter 7

    Encounter - 1

    Chizuru felt the cold drops of water hit against her cheek. She scowled without thinking and shivered.

    When she inhaled, it was cold air that poured into her lungs as if to cleanse her. Her eyes remained tightly shut as her hand stretched out, searching for the nket that should be warming her body. But the only things that her fingertips felt was the texture of her own damp clothing.

    ...Damp clothing?

    Cold air?

    Chizurus consciousness slowly drifted back to reality.

    That was right. She had been eating with Karasawa, and then returned alone to her station when the voice'' had rung in her ears. That was the dream. And

    And?

    (Dream?)

    Her heart began to beat loudly. Chizuru frantically opened her eyes.

    The sight that sprung into her vision was a forest-like ce with trees that may have been cedar. The ground was covered in fallen, wet leaves of amber. Everything that was beyond a dozen meters ahead was shrouded in a thin, white mist. If this was not reality, it was the most beautiful and mystical scene.

    The sunlight that leaked from the forest roof swayed in the mist and shined like an aurora.

    Chizuru picked herself out of the bed of leaves and gulped. She stayed still for quite some time. The lively cries of wild birds were echoing like some far away siren.

    No matter how you saw it, this was not amon sight for modern Japan.

    This tranquility was not normal. Sometimes, she could hear the twittering of birds, but there was no man-made noise from cars and trains in this world.

    Coul it, could it, could it be

    Chizuru looked at her surroundings and tried to confirm the situation she was in.

    Her clothes...were the same as when she was in Japan. Though, they were quite damp after having soaked the dew from the leaves. Her bag and umbre were now gone, and she had nothing on her but her clothes.

    Yes, it was just like how it was thest time in Lukrovs world

    e back!)

    She had not met anyone yet and seen no real evidence of it, but Chizuru was sure of it. The chilly air that entered her lungs somehow felt nostalgic, and her heart began to race. Such delicious air could not be tasted in her old world. Chizuru remained sitting on the forest floor as she filled her chest with all the fresh air that she could.

    Ivee back.

    She did not know where she currently was, or where Lukrov was living, but she was in the same world, breathing the same air. Just thinking about it made her heart fill with emotion.

    However, she was not able to bask in that sensation for long.

    She was alone in a thick forest. Nothing would begin if she just sat there and thought. While the sun was still high, she did not know if it was morning or the afternoon. But she knew from experience that she would be surrounded byplete darkness when day turned into night, and so Chizuru decided that she must walk and try to find something.

    At least, it was clearly not winter.

    She did feel cold under her damp clothes, but not enough to freeze. Considering that the ground was covered in leaves, it would probably be autumn here. It had been October in Japan, and maybe it was the same season here as well.

    Chizuru felt a little calmer when she thought about this.

    What if only a year and several months had passed here as well?

    For now, Chizurus main goal was to look for someone that she could talk to. She wanted to confirm the exact date and also find an inn that she could spend the night at. The books that Mai had lent her often depicted inns and guest houses, but such useful establishments were hard to find in this world. It was likely that those books had envisioned a more advanced age. Here, spending the night outside of your home would often mean sleeping outside or sleeping in someone elses house.

    After walking for some time, she became anxious at the fact that her surroundings seemed to go on unchanged. She was thirsty, but there was no water to drink. And no food to ease her hunger. Along with being reminded of the conveniences of modern Japan, she was also thankful to Karasawa, for taking her to the restaurant to eat.

    Lukrov had taught her how to find edible nuts and mushrooms in the forest once. And so Chizuru tried to recall that knowledge as she pushed away the dead leaves and looked through the soil for food.

    Her memory was not the best, but she did manage to find some nuts that resembled walnuts. And she opened them with a rock and ate them gratefully.

    She was able to act like this so naturally because this was her second time here.

    Her throat was still dry, but she decided to keep walking once her stomach was satisfied. The ground was mostly t but nted a little downward, and Chizuru followed that direction. She felt that she was more likely toe upon a house that way That too was something that Lukrov had once told her.

    She walked, walked and walked.

    Then she walked even more until she finally heard something like the rushing of water from far away. Without thinking, Chizuru''s feet immediately started to move towards the sounds.

    It was faint, but she was sure that it was the sound of water.

    She entered an area where there was not only leaves, but grass that went up to her knees, and after a little more walking, discovered a brook. It was not even thirty centimeters deep and only about fifty centimeters wide, but it was beautifully clear and even smelled pleasant.

    Chizuru knelt down by the side of the river and checked that the water was not too cold before she scooped it up and drank it.

    It was cool, fragrant and gentle.

    The sensation of it moistening her parched throat was to die for, and Chizuru lost herself in the act of bringing the water to her lips. Her face and neck became wet as she did this, but it felt almost reviving after such a long walk and having her skin covered in sweat.

    Water.

    Oh, water!

    There was nothing else that supported and empowered life like this. Chizuru now felt this deeply. Her tired mind and every fiber of her being seemed to rx, and the tension and unease faded away. The worries and doubts that had filled her mind as she walked now left her, and she felt hopeful again.

    Everything would turn out alright.

    Chizuru sat down by the river for a while and rested.

    The rush of the clean water and the chirping of the birds who came to drink yed softly in her ears. Before she knew it, she had closed her eyes again.

    And she allowed herself to fall asleep, meaning for it to be for only a short while.

    Chizuru felt her body swaying unnaturally, and she awoke.

    The swaying continued even after she was awake, and sometimes she would feel the impact of something shaking her entire body. Her hip and back hurt, and she felt a little sick.

    (My hip hurts...what is?)

    Feeling that something was wrong, she opened her eyes and saw the night sky.

    Chizuru realized then that she had slept until the sun went down. She cursed herself, but it was toote. The stars danced and filled the sky.

    And

    Ahh, youngdy. You have awakened just in time. We are almost at my castle.

    Chizuru let out a short scream.

    Arge, bear-like man was grinning at her from under the light of the moon. His expression seemed amused. His bushy hair was thick and grew down to his beard, and it smelled thickly of sweat. She did not know how old he was, but her overall impression was that he looked like Santa use had not taken a bath in over a year.

    Ah, I wouldnt do that if I were you, beautiful. I am not known for being patient. You dont want me to hurt you, do you?

    Wha

    Chizuru was breathing heavily now. She quickly scanned her surroundings and saw that she was on a horse with this bear of a man. Her body was wrapped in a filthy nket, and she was gripped tightly so that she would not fall off, but the man''s appearance and manner were far from a gentleman or knight.

    It was dark aside from the light of the moon, and she could not see clearly. But she thought that she heard the sounds of several other horses running close by. Was he leading a group of men?

    Wh-what are you...going to do with me?

    While she felt pathetic, she could not help but feel fear, and her voice trembled. The man seemed to be enjoying her reaction.

    It was no surprise to her. He seemed like the kind of man who would find pleasure in tormenting women.

    He showed his yellowed teeth and roared withughter.

    Youre a pretty one, and we have only men here. As starved as we are, what else would we do!

    Enraged, Chizuru immediately tried to escape from his grip, but his thick arms were sturdy, and would not let go. A gutturalugh came from his hairy mouth, and Chizuru felt extreme hatred for him.

    Le-let me go!

    That is what I would wish

    The bear of a man continued cheerfully. "...But you have dark hair and eyes, and a face that is notmon around here. And your build is just right. Though, perhaps you are a little too young."

    "F-face?"

    "If that bastard scum is in a good mood, we may be able to make a little money off of you. And so there it is. You are our prisoner for now. We won''t touch you. But don''t expect to be treated like a princess either."

    Just then, the hoot of an owl came from somewhere. It was strangely loud.

    Chizuru pursed her lips as she shook with rage. She had never expected that she would fall straight back into Lukrovs arms, but she had not expected this either. That she would be captured by some unknown men and be handled like property.

    She tried to hold them back, but tears began to fill her eyes.

    "Bah, there is no reason to cry. That cold duke was once praised as a hero who saved the country. But now, he is only a shut-in who rules this countryside."

    What.

    Chizuru stopped breathing at those words.

    A hero...who saved the country?

    Who, who...is he? When...did this happen?

    The man raised his eyebrows in surprise at her string of questions. He had not expected her to be so interested.

    He scratched his rough beard and seemed to be thinking.

    It must be fourteen years ago now The people could not shut up about him then, but now he is practically disgraced. They call him the ck Assassin.

    Chizuru was lost for words.

    Fourteen years. So her calctions had been correct. And, the hero of the country.

    But why an Assassin?

    Turns out the hero who saved the kingdom was nothing more than a murderer and a monster, who was blinded by gold and women. They say that he killed hundreds as the kings hand. But he lives quietly in his mansion now

    The bear man said and roared withughter. Chizuru could not understand what was so amusing to him.

    The hoot of an owl echoed once again, and Chizuru felt even more uneasy.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8

    The bear-like man��s name was Rodolgo, and he appeared to be the leader of a small, decrepit settlement that was just outside of the forest.

    ��Before that damned bastard came here by order of the king����

    Rodolgo��s eyes shined with the luster of someone boasting, as Chizuru looked down at the dark and damp-looking settlement.

    ����It was I who ruled this entire region. And yet that stone-faced, former Hero robbed me of it all. Now, we just live humbly in this corner.��

    Even under the dim moonlight, she could tell how poor it was. There were only a few deste houses in this ce that Chizuru had been brought to. There were no paved roads, and the buildings looked more like slightly painted sheds than houses. However, among them all, there was one building that was muchrger than the rest and that was made of stone. This building was what Rodolgo called his ��castle.��

    Chizuru had now stopped resisting beyond what was necessary.

    This was partly out of a faint hope that this Rodolgo would be the one who would bring her to Lukrov.

    Rodolgo opened the bolt on his door himself. It screeched and ground violently as he did so. It meant that he had no servants to do such things for him. The others around him, who appeared to be his subordinates, said nothing as they entered into his house and disappeared.

    As soon as the doors were open, the air was filled with the smell of old, dried grass.

    Rodolgo grabbed Chizuru��s arms and pulled her inside.

    ��Now, enter! Hey, Dorothy. Get up! I have returned!��

    It was clear that he would have been heard without raising his voice so much, but Rodolgo announced his return in an exaggerated fashion. It was pitch ck inside the mansion, and just as cold as it was outside.

    After a moment, footsteps could be heard from above, and a short, middle-aged woman began to descend the stairs from above with antern. The sight was so eerie that Chizuru could not help but let out a small cry and jerk back.

    ��What is it? Have you brought a guest then����

    The middle-aged woman��s voice was so deep that it was difficult to hear. And so very slow.

    ��You really are a curious one�� But there is nothing to eat here. Only potatoes.��

    ��I didn��t bring her here just to y. She��ll have value. I might be able to ransom her to that cold-hearted duke.��

    ��Ransom?��

    The woman called Dorothy raised thentern higher now as she came closer. It was as if she was dragging herself across the floor. Chizuru could see Dorothy better now. She did not appear to be that old, but her skin was covered with wrinkles and half of her hair was white. She looked like a witch.

    ��I thought that that man stopped looking for his heavenly maiden long ago?��

    Dorothy said with undisguised exasperation. Then she began to touch Chizuru��s arms and waist without restraint.

    Seeing her mouth moving up close, Chizuru now realized that Dorothy had lost most of her teeth. That was likely why she was hard to understand when talking.

    For now, Chizuru decided to stay silent.

    While both Dorothy and Rodolgo were rough and ill-mannered, she did not sense any immediate malice towards her.

    Once Dorothy was finished with her inspection, she let out a deep sigh and put down herntern. Then she began to mutter to herself as she disappeared into a back room.

    ��Bring me some wine as well!��

    Rodolgo shouted in the direction that Dorothy had disappeared in. But there was no reply.

    Several minutester, Dorothy returned with what looked like a bundled nket under her arm, and she pushed it into Chizuru. Dust flew in the air and the smell of mold drifted around them.

    ��Food and drinks willeter. Youngdy, you will sleep on the floor in my room tonight.��

    Rodolgo muttered someint, but it seemed that he would not go against what she had decided. Dorothy picked up thentern again and pulled Chizuru away with a strong grip. And so Chizuru followed her up the stairs.

    The stairs were narrow and made of uneven stone. Chizuru nearly tripped several times and bumped into Dorothy, but the woman was much stronger than she looked. She kept pulling Chizuru up, and before she knew it, they had arrived in what seemed like a small bedroom.

    ��Here it is. You must be hungry, but you will have to wait for the morning.��

    Chizuru nodded and looked around at the room.

    However, there was not much to look at. There was a single window that was norger than the size of a person��s face, a threadbare carpet on the floor, and a bed that was full of dried grass. Dorothy bolted the door and locked it with a key.

    Made with ''Motion Trail / After Image | Concept LoRA v1.0'' Model

    ��Do not even think of escaping. Well, it is not really my concern����

    Dorothy said with a sigh, then she blew out the light of thentern and sunk into her bed. After a few minutes, an unhealthy sounding snore echoed loudly in the room.

    Chizuru exhaled as she hugged the molded nket that Dorothy had given her. Then she sat down on the carpet.

    (I really��came back��)

    This medieval-like world.

    It was harsh, but the people felt very human, and the world had a natural beauty that was vast.

    They should not be speaking in Japanese, but strangely, Chizuru could understand them, and they, in turn, could understand her. Perhaps it was some kind of super-natural automatic trantion�� Perhaps Chizuru herself had undergone a change, acquired the ability fornguage when she traveled through time and space. That was how she saw it. It had been the same thest time.

    (But�� ��The ck Assassin.�� ��The Cold Duke����)

    Chizuru had not yet been able to ask Rodolgo or Dorothy the name of this man who might be Lukrov.

    If it wasn��t him�� That was a possibility that scared her. But she also wanted to avoid any suspicions that might arise by asking too many questions. Right now, the only thing Chizuru had was the hope that this man might be Lukrov.

    She understood the title of duke.

    At the time, Lukrov had no title other than that of being the heir of a baron. However, there was a strong likelihood that he had advanced in thest fourteen years. Her memory was hazy, but she believed that there was quite a gap between a baron and a duke�� But considering what he had aplished, it was not impossible.

    But, ��cold.��

    And, ��assassin.��

    Indeed, Lukrov was not the most cheerful person. A shrewd person might see his coolness as cold and ruthless. But, assassin��

    (Surely, it was a misunderstanding?)

    Yes, this was a world where not only newspapers were nonexistent, but books were hard toe by�� It was rumors and lies that passed from person to person. Any word could be misunderstood, twisted and exaggerated. Ultimately, an entirely different story could end up spreading.

    Made with ''Dark Incursio Style | Style LoRA v1.0'' Model

    Likely, once Chizuru had left, Lukrov had judged the rebels of the kingdom, and this had been blown out of proportion.

    (Surely�� Yes��)

    Chizuru spread out the nket within the dark and theny down on the ground while wrapping herself in it.

    While it was not currently winter, the midnight floor of stone was cold. Still, she did not feel likeining. Chizuru��s heart was full and burned hot with memories of Lukrov, along with hopes and worries for the future.

 Chapter 9

    The cries of the birds announced the presence of morning tickled her ears, the sun leaked out from the windows shines brightly into the room.

    Chizuru tried to lift her eyelids gently, the sun ring straight to her face, it was so bright that she had to blink for a few times.

    The morning...... hase.

    The first morning since I came back to this world.

    She stretched out her body on the carpet, rolled over the nkets and stood up slowly, and Chizuru immediately looked around the small room. But on the bed, it was empty and Dorothy was nowhere to be seen. Instead, she heard a moving sound somewhere in the house, she carefully sniff around(?)and smelled the sweet aromas of food wafting from below.

    (T/N: It was written as '''' so, it''s kinda weird when it was tranted as "sharpen your nerves", so I changed it to something that makes sense with the situation. Please help and correct me if you have a better trantions)

    Her body was honest as her stomach was growling from sniffing the sweet smells.

    Chizuru came near the closed doors and with a doubt she pushes the doors forward. Since the wooden doors were decayed and rotting, it creaked and opens up without any particr resistance.

    Oh, um...... Can I go out?

    Chizuru finally broke into silence and speak out. There is no answer.

    In other words, there were no any objection, so Chizuru went out of the room in fear because she was hungry. The dark mansion that she sawst night was now lit by the light that leaks into the window.

    To tell you the truth, Rodolgo''s mansion was horrendous.

    It looks terrible. It''s a little bit surprising to her since she''ve been saying that twice now. The building itself was made from stone, but the surface was rough and not polished properly, so many things were missing, even the floor and the walls are uneven. There''s really no purpose for the wooden doors to be attached to the room since the doors are rotting and falling apart.

    (Speaking of which...... Lukrov...... I was only told to do it, or I''ll be driven away by someone)(?)

    (T/N: I tried my best really TT_TT, but I''m not sure what this sentences mean author-san ?? - "")

    Of course, she knows that there a lot of people living in this world is much more poor, but the fact somehow made Chizuru feel a little responsible.

    The mansion was not thatrge enough to wander around here and there, Chizuru could easily find the stairs to go down.

    When Chizuru showed up, Dorothy was drinking something that looked like a light gray soup on the wooden table. Dorothy looks up at Chizuru.

    You''re finally up

    Ah, Yes

    As I saidst night, there''s hardly anything to eat here except for potatoes. There''s this in the kitchen, if you want it you''ll bring it yourself

    Dorothy said while holding the soup dish.

    From what Dorothy said and the sweet smells, it must be some sweet potato soup. It was a bit of a shock to Chizuru, who had been used to Japanese food.

    I will. Is there Rodolgo-san?

    He''s already eaten and went out the first thing in the morning. It takes three days from here to the Duke''s house on a horse

    Three days

    So to say, if you''re going back and forth, you''ll be able to meet the Duke, who may be Lukrov, at least six dayster. Perhaps until then, she and Dorothy might have to live alone with this sweet potato soup.

    Chizuru sighed and went into the hallway which she thought would continue to the kitchen.

    And there was a small room that looks like a kitchen, of course there was no fridge, and there was a pile of potatoes with dirt on the stone worktops, and the iron pot was just hanging over the fire like a Kamado(!). Chizuru took the soup from the pot and put in into her wooden bowl and returned back to Dorothy.

    (T/N: For those who knows Kamado, yay good for you (/o_o)/ But for those who don''t know, Kamado is a traditional Japanese wood-or-charcoal-fueled cook stove.)

    Dorothy is silently sipping on her soup without raising her face when Chizuru returns.

    For the time being, Chizuru decided to follow her. Fortunately, there seems to be plenty of time. After taking a long time to finish her unexpectedly delicious food, Chizuru faced Dorothy.

    Um..... May I ask you a little?

    Chizuru asked, after she finishing her meal. Dorothy put the bowl on the desk in silence and turned towards Dorothy with her gloomy eyes. Even if Chizuru tries to run away now, she won''t follow her. It was such a dry gaze.

    About the Duke. ording to Rodolgo-san, he was a national hero, but the king''s order has brought him to this area Such a thing

    Huh, are you worried?

    Dorothy''s face was distorted, there was a glimpse of her teeth between the gaps of her lips.

    Well~ That might be true Because you might be sold to that guy

    Will she be sold?

    It''s a very disturbed statement, but if she think about the price, will it be that kind of thing? As she breathed a sigh, Chizuru nodded at Dorothy''s words.

    Dorothy suddenly looked away from Chizuru and turned her gaze to see somewhere in the air. And began to speak in a slow tone.

    There used to be bad dragons in this country not very long ago. Do you know that

    Yes. It''s a dragon with ck scales, with horrible sharp fangs and ws, and five heads. It''s a dragon that flew around in the middle of the night killing people

    Chizuru trembled, remembering the time when she had seen the huge beast before her.

    This world is slightly different from the world Sword and Magic, as in the book I borrowed from Mai. There was no so-called magic at all. It''s a medieval world, of course there are swords as weapons, but it''s not a magic sword. From the perspective of a person from modern era like Chizuru - the dubious traditions, customs and people were nothing but ordinary people. Neither animals nor nts are much different from the original world. The only exception was the beast......and there was a shrine maiden summoned from a different worlds to get rid of it.

    Chizuru.

    The evil dragon doesn''t belong to this world, it is said that the dragon could only be killed by the hands of humans from different worlds - Chizuru, who was protected by the knights such as Lukrov, struck the heart of the dragon with a sword and ended it all.

    However, Chizuku''s existence was a secret among the Knights and the king, and the evil dragon was supposed to be killed by Lukrov and the Knights.

    In fact, Chizuru was only reaching, and until then she was just being protected......

    If you know that much, you know the rumors about the man who defeated the evil dragon

    Chizuru nodded.

    In other words, the duke was the result of this man. Although he was admired as a hero, he was dazzled by gold and women...... he kept his hands dirty resembling an assasin. Four or five years ago, I''ve had enough, I was tired and decided to retire to the countryside. I''m going to get the King''s rights to take control of this area.

    Dorothy raises her tone a little, It''s like a mouth-watering fee. He''s been doing pretty dirty stuff.

    Chizuru was lost for words, she stared into the wrinkles carved under Dorothy''s eyes.

    It is still unclear where and what the truth is.

    However, it seemed quite impossible for her to liepletely.

    Dorothy smiled brightly as she nced back to Chizuru, who remained speechless.

    That''s not all. Only a few people know it, but he had a odd characteristics, and a woman with ck hair, dark eyes and a slightly exotic face.... If you have this type of woman, you can go all over the country and will get you a lot of money.....

    She stared at Chizuru who look exactly like what she described. Dorothy let out a creepyugh, hihihi ().

    Well, that type of woman is rare It''s like an angel. After settling down to the countryside, I seemed to have stopped looking for that woman..... But that Rodolgo fool found you and there was a bit of a tinge.... Maybe, the Duke might still pay the money.

    Chizuru''s life these past few days has been very monotonous.

    Despite how dark the rumors were, the duke was still likely to be Lukrov, so she couldn''t bring herself to run away..... she was just living quietly with Dorothy.

    Everday, it started a sweet potato soup, followed by a sweet potato soup for lunch, and then ended up with a sweet potato soup for dinner. In between, they''re digging potatoes in the fields behind the mansion. About three dayster, Chizuru felt like as if she had an allergy to potatoes, but after four days, she don''t feel like that''s the case.

    She met the rest of the people in the vige, but they were all equally impoverished old woman like Dorothy, or a man who seemed to be drinking from days to days, and they were not much to talk about. Perhaps the decent young mens from escaped from here.

    On the morning of the sixth day, the news arrived.

    I was surprised! The duke himself wasing with Rodolgo to see you!

    In response to the announcement carried by the herald(!), Dorothy let out a rare voice in excitement.

    (T/N: Herald - an official crier or messenger.)

    And she began to talk about Chizuru''s appearance which she never seemed to have a problem before. She''s bringing a a in white and green dress that was washed from somewhere and put it on Chizuru, she also brushes her hair using ab.

    Of course Chizuru was having difficulty with her high spirits.

    Maybe she can meet Lukrov from now on......!

    And that evening, the sun was setting and the sky was tainted with purple and orange, Rodolgo finally returned to the vige with a fine-looking knight.

    Dorothy and Chizuru stood in front of the mansion, waiting for the arrivals of the two men who were swayed by the horses from across the horizon.

    Women! I''m back now!

    As he approached the mansion, Rodolgo raised his voice loudly, but the knight remained silent.

    The knight is wearing a chain and a silver armor from his head. His face can''t be seen in the shadows since it''s too dark to see.

    But......

    Straight back. Broad and wide shoulder.

    Its tall figure that can be tell by riding on a horseback.

    Rodolgo continue to shout something, but it didn''t reach to Chizuru''s ears.

    It was the same for the knight, the two were locked up in a bond as they''re looking at each other''s eyes silently on thend where the sun was setting.

 Chapter 10

    From the moment she stared at him, Chizuru had forgotten how to breathe.

    Well, Master. How is it? Shes the woman I told you about. She just needs to be polished with some nice clothes, then shell be beyond recognition.

    When Rodolgo get off from the horse and approached her, Chizurus throat was suffocating. She was breathing in haste, trying to keep her mind sane.

    Not yet.. Still cant see it.

    His silver helmet covered the knights head and half of his face, and as he got closer only the lines of his mouth and his jaw were visible. There was a stubble but it must have been the result from a few days worth of journey, all she can see was the shape of his lips but it was also blocked by the shadow of the sunset.

    But.

    But, she dont think it was somebody else.

    Even before she heard his voice, she felt that his baritone would tickle Chizurus ears nostalgically.

    Lukrov?

    Chizurus mouth was calling for his name without any warning(?).

    (T/N: It tranted as without any permission, I though the sentence was kinda weird. Like, do we ever call someones name with permission though? XD So yeah I changed it to without any warning)

    Youre Lukrov, arent you? Do you remember? Me, Chizuru..?

    And then, she felt that the knights shoulder which had not been wavered until now was shaken.

    Before she knew it, Rodolgo came to her side and grabbed Chizurus arms violently and pushes her forward as if to brag about the prey he just freshly hunted.

    Now, are you going to pay? or youre not going to pay? If Master doesnt pay, Ill sell him to some other man.

    Rodolgo who said that he had no choice, still grabbed her arms and smiles defiantly. Even though its like being treated as an object rather than as a person, Chizuru was still fascinated by the knight in front of her.

    Take off your helmet and show me your face.

    Let me hear you.

    (T/N: I put it in a red colored font because most of the novels chapters are in third person point of view. It seems like thats her inner thoughts, so yeah.. thats why)

    Rodolgo and Dorothy were looking at them suspiciously, noticing the the knight who had been silent the whole time and the difference of the air between them.

    Chizuru also began to get nervous from the lengthy amount of silence.

    What if hes not Lukrov? Chizuru might be sold by a strange man who had an odd characteristics..

    But after a few good minutes of immobility and silence, the man dressed as a knight finally moved his hand.

    Alright.

    He said in a low voice, and slipped his hand to her waist.

    Rodolgo tried to put himself on guard for a moment, right before he can take a decent stance, the knight had tossed down a leather bag before Rodolgo. The sound of precious metals falling to the ground was heard over the skin bag.

    Rodolgo and Dorothy who instantly changed their colors flocked over the skin bag. When the poor living clumsily opened their bag with their dirty hands, there were a lot of brilliant(dazzling)gold coins. Dorothy released an animal-like scream of joy.

    However, the tall knight didnt even cast a nce on them.

    He just stared at Chizuru.

    Chizuru also keeps looking at him like that.

    Are youing or not

    Next to Rodolgo and Dorothy who were swarmed with gold coins on the ground, the knight were calling out to Chizuru who had been motionless ever since. Its as if Chizuru was given the right to choose. Chizuru nodded once without talking.

    This is Lukrovs voice, no doubt.

    A voice that is much sharper than it used to be, although it may have lost its youthfulness, but his low and calm voice remains the same.

    Seeing Chizurus affirmation, the knight slowly approached her while riding a horse, as he got closer, he vigorously lifted Chizurus body.

    Kya!

    Chizurus screams soon disappeared against the knights chest. The hardness of the armor is firmly pushed against Chizurus cheek It was a nostalgic feeling.

    Lukrov

    To ovep Chizurus muttering, the knight raised his voice firing up the horse as she held the reins tightly.

    The ck horse turns around at an rming speed and runs out to the point of sight following its masters life. Even though at first the horse shook violently, Chizuru didnt feel worried that she might fall.

    Because Chizuru is now in Lukrovs chest.

    Whether its two months, a year or even 14 years, theres just something that will not change no matter how much time passes.

    It was early when the veils of night(!)descended, and within less than an hour the sky had turned into a perfect starry sky.

    (T/N: Japanese is quite deep with their wordings.  means veils of night)

    Perhaps he is familiar with this region, Lukrov continues to drive his horse straight without hesitation at all. After passing through the trees standing high in the sky like a gale, going down the hill and running for a short while, the forest are gradually clearing out. But at the same time, the night fog begins to cover the area and the horse began to slow down..

    Lukrov doesnt want to overwork his horse, so they slowly stopped moving forward.

    Chizuru raises her face when the horse stops.

    Are you getting off. here?

    I heard it, but it was only the slightest nod to the extent that I might not know whether he had already answered. Even before then, he had been silent the whole time, and he didnt even take off his helmet. However, the arms that held Chizuru while on a horse was powerful and gentle that there was a little uneasiness.

    With his hand, Lukrov helped Chizuru got off from the horse with a vivid movement that she didnt believe he was wearing a heavy armor. Even though it was over the gloves, he was holding her hands with a nostalgic sensation and held her waist in a warm grip. As if to ignore gravity, she was lightly lowered onto the ground and Chizuru staggered slightly from the difference while on a horse.

    Lukrovs hand supports Chizuru firmly.

    Oh, thank you

    Even if she say thank you, Lukrov only replied with a slight nod.

    Lukrov, who left Chizuru standing up, tied the reins of the horse to the trunk of the tree and begin to level the ground with his feet. It was not the first time Chizuru saw what hes doing.

    Less than 15 minutester, Lukrov collected dead trees and leaves on the leveled ground, and ignited a fire with his portable flint.

    She have so many things things to tell him, but it may note out well.

    Both Lukrov and Chizuru were sitting near the fire for awhile without saying anything.

    Lukrov sat down using a nearby stone as a chair, while Chizuru sits on the ground in a seiza position(!). Even though there was a little wind, thanks to the gradually growing fire there was no cold, but the silence continues to send chills up to the spine.

    (T/N: Seiza  kneeling with the tops of the feet t on the floor, and sitting on the soles. Can referhereif you want to see the picture.)

    The red burning bonfire illuminates the outline of a man who was once called The Knight of Inferno

    She thought that he might have lost some weight. However, the sturdy body, broad shoulder and his wide back that stretched firmly against his tall figure remains unchanged.

    And his strong gaze that were only looking at Chizuru.

    LukrovYou know, let me exin.

    As it became unbearable, Chizuru opened her mouth first.

    At that time I was told that my grandmother was very sick, I I went back to my original world. But its only been a little over a year over there

    For some reason, her voice trembled.

    As expected, Lukrov is a man who has been once described as the countrys best knight, and he has an overwhelming presence even if he is silent. In that sense, he was a very brave man who confesses to his mistake and apologize.

    Ive never forgotten you. A little while ago, when I heard a voice calling out to this world I want to go right away. And, because of that now, Ive returned..

    Lukrov was still silent.

    He just stared at Chizuru under his helmet, and this time she couldnt get a small nod. Chizuru had to bite her lips to stop the tears from overflowing.

    Why Why dont you take off your helmet?

    Chizuru seems to heard Lukrov exhaling short sigh.

    Then, he slowly extended his hands to hold the back of his head, and then gently took off his helmet. First, she can see his dark ck hair and Lukrovs handsome face appears in front of Chizurus eyes in the light of fire.

    Chizuru was smiling while spontaneously moved to tears.

    It is Lukrov.

    He was a lot more grim than the Lukrov she remembers, but there is no doubt about it.

    ck eyes that are likely to be swallowed, masculine jaw line with deep carved features, and strong willed lips. All of them. However the little wrinkles that wasnt there before are beginning to carve thinly near his eyes and mouth. And, there was a trace of a cut across his forehead and temples upon his right eyebrow.

    However,his expression was as cold as ice.

    Or, he seemed to be very angry. The cold, the heat and the temperature that was supposed to conflict with each other turned into an arrow and pierced Chizuru painfully.

    Lukrov I

    Why now?

    A low, sharp voice interrupted Chizuru. If she hadnt heard it wrong, Lukrovs voice was slightly trembling as Chizuru did.

    Huh?

    Why are youing back now? Why now, to abandon someone for more than 14 years Are youing back?

    Chizuru couldnt answer.

    Abandoned,More than 14 years,andNow.

    Chizurus heart was frozen, and her body didnt move as if she had lost the reason to breathe.

 Chapter 11

    Of course, its not like she was expecting it to be easy to love each other again as if nothing had happened.

    She was worried.She could taste depression. Even when she was in Japan, she was already worried that Lukrov might already have a wife and a child.

    Well  she should have been prepared, but after seeing Lukrovs cold eyes in front of her and given her a word that seemed to be a rejection, Chizuru was plunged into darkness.

    Imsorry

    Its not about apologizing once or twice.Of course, she knows that.

    But now Chizuru couldnt find any other words to say.

    Even before Chizurus apology, Lukrov still looks at his former lover from a different world without moving his eyebrows. The only sound that resonated between the two of them was the crackling sound and the sparks ignited by the bonfire.

    She finally came back.

    Theyre alone at the distance that seems to be within reach, but even though they faced each other around the same fire, cant it be restored back? That sort of uneasiness was swirling inside Chizuru.

    The silence seemed tost forever, but after a while, Lukrov breaks the branch near him and tossed it into the firewood while slowly opened up his mouth.

    You..havent changed

    He muttered. Chizuru blinked several times because she couldnt tell whether he was talking to her for a moment or if she had just heard Lukrovs monologue. She felt that Lukrovs expression has softened just a little.

    Your skin, your face, your body, its no different when we got separated 14 years ago

    Chizuru quickly nodded at Lukrov, who added something like an exposition.

    Over there..In my world, Its been only a year and two months since then. Thats why I think it looks like that. I think my hair grows a little

    A year and two months

    Yeah..but, Lukrov hasnt changed either

    Lukrov once again tossed the dead branches into the fire, he turned his head from side to side and denied it.

    No, Ive changed. Ive changed more than you can imagine. There are no more heroes 14 years ago

    It was a firm way of saying there was no chance for her to object. But Chizuru, on the other hand, was relieved by his nostalgic way of speaking. because he always speaks so stubbornly.

    I am..not here looking for a hero

    When Chizuru murmured, Lukrov raised his eyebrows slightly.

    Then, who?

    You

    Me?

    Thats right. But, perhaps. Are you married?

    As if symbolizing Chizurus anxiety, from beyond the darkness came a sharp roar resembling the howling of wolves. The night sky is so clear and far away, but there is a depth where if you are off your guard, youll bepletely sucked in. Yes, Chizuru has alreadye to a world that ispletely different from the modern Japan.

    It is time, as Lukrov himself said, I dont know how to go home now.

    If Lukrov is already married, or if theres other woman he likes, it may happen without purpose. Because he dont have a solid mission like thest time. If she remember correctly, she feels like she have heard a voice saying Save him

    Married?

    With an overwhelming disgust in his eyes, Lukrov bluntly repeated Chizurus words Me? With whom?

    Well, with someone. If its been 14 years, surely you have met with someone I dont know

    What more can he say after this? The thought seemed to crush her heart, but it was even harder to voice it out. To stop Chizuru from bing muddy, Lukrov shakes his head once more.

    Im not married, I dont intend to

    When surprised Chizuru raised her face  Lukrov, with a more serious face was staring at her.

    Chizuru was suddenly nervous, feeling deceived she remained silent and turned her eyes into the mes burning between the two of them.You may think that hes not married is a good news. However, the phrase I dont intend to is not about loving other woman, but it felt like he was insinuating that he doesnt love Chizuru anymore..

    The sparks of the fire dancing in the air hurt her eyes.

    You? How many men have you seeded in seducing during that year and two months?

    Eh..

    How many men have you embraced? How many men have touched your lips?

    Lukrovs tone was suddenly indifferent when he started asking the questions, but under the cold expression was overflowing with hot passion. Chizuru shook her head in a haste and stepped back a litte to escape from the overwhelming tension.

    NNobody

    As soon as Lukrov stood up with a violent pace, he stood in front of Chizuru, stepping across the zing fire.

    LuLukrov..

    Answer me!

    Really, nobody. Ahn~

    Chizurus cry was suddenly swallowed by Lukrovs body. When she was pushed down to the ground, her head were held tightly by Lukrov. Right before she could even blink her eyes, her lips were devoured greedily. The primitive kiss was followed for a few more seconds, and when Lukrov finally lifted his lips, both of them were out of breath.

    Answer me..Who touched you

    Lukrovs voice seemed to tremble with anger. He grabbed her face with hisrge hands, and Chizurus throat felt so dry she cant speak well.

    No oneNo one touched me. Really Kyaaa!

    In a speed of lightning, her white and green medieval dress she had worn was ripped off on her chest area, he quickly drew his mouth and fiercely nibbled on her white skin, leaving a mark. His lips that emits a rough breath was crawling on her chest greedily. Chizurus body trembled from top to toe.

    WWait, Lukrov.Ahhh~

    Chizurus vision turned pure white as he sucked hard on her breast. Without even listening, Lukrovs tongue caressed her skilfully and her back arched as Chizurus voice became more louder. But, of course, he wasnt satisfied with just that.

    Was there a man who touched this breasts?

    Ahh!

    Chizuru shrieked as his fingers are teasingly rubbing her other nipple.If she dont answer him quickly, Lukrov will surely do something much further.However, Chizuru wasnt able to talk properly due to his intense loving, and Lukrov, who cant get an answer will continue cornering Chizuru.

    Was there a man who touched this breasts!

    Lukrov yelled between his rough breaths. Chizuru shouted back in tears.

    No! No one, except you..Nobody!

    Suddenly, Lukrovs usations about her chest stopped.

    With a rough breath, he covers up Chizuru and stares into her eyes.Chizuru was breathing as heavily as Lukrov.

    Thenhere?

    This time his tone was slightly softer, but, thats just because its unrted to kindness.

    !

    Lukrov inserted his fingers into Chizurus crotch. For Chizuru, this is her first time since a year and two months ago. But for Lukrov, despite his first time in 14 years, his hand seemed to remember exactly everything. He quickly found Chizurus sensitive part in the blink of an eye and strokes it gently.

    Have you been touched here?

    For a moment, it crossed Chizurus mind of what would happen if she were to answer Yes.The countrys best knight can also asionally be the countrys best demon.Surely someone will see the blood.

    NnNhnn

    Here Did you let someone touch you

    His caresses were relentless, and it seemed as if he was deliberately trying to dy it in fear of hearing the answer from Chizuru. Her cum begins to wet her genitals, and the sound of her moans were overflowing.

    No one Nobody Theres no one, Lukrov

    In response to Chizurus appeal, Lukrov gazed into his lovers captivating appearance, and finally slow down only to urge her again with the answer.

    Nobody, No one. Only youYoure the only one, so believe me.

    Hah~ Hah~ between her interval breathing, Chizuru touched Lukrovs cheek with her trembling hands and said,I came back because I like you. I love you

    Chizurus confession didnt get a return from Lukrov.

    Or perhaps, that was the answer. Still, they embraced each others body under the starry sky that night  twice.

    Chizuru realized again what kind of man Lukrov was.He can be an incredibly gentle lover or a formidable knight who makes you shudder just by getting near him.

    He doesnt allow betrayal and doesnt share a woman he loves with someone.

    He wouldnt forgive others so easily, and,

    Let alone, a former lover who betrayed him once especially.

 Chapter 12

    Since she has chosen this path on her own, she cantin even if she realizes how difficult the journey is. If she got lost or injured, it was her to me. Thats the first thing she thought about the moment she woke up the next morning in Lukrovs embrace.

    It was her first time seeing the bonfires ashes vanished in the air leaving a smoky odor.

    The morning dew was absorbed by the ground and reflected a rainbow under the sunlight. Chizuru slowly raised her body with a squeak, looked around her surroundings and began to scream briefly.

    Lukrov was staring at her with his piercing sharp eyes from a few meters away. Leaning against a tree in an appearance as if hes already prepared to go on a journey, while carrying a helmet on his other arm; he was dressed in an armor that she should have thrown offst night. His expression was somber enough to be called gloomy, and he gave off a dreadful appearance that made her frightened unintentionally.

    G-Good Morning Lukrov

    Chizuru managed to greet him, but he didnt reply as expected.

    The forest exposed by the morning sun felt so much better than in the darkness of the night, and the cedar tree were tall enough that she couldnt even see the tip ending in any moment even if she were to look up. Instead, there were some orange-colored fruits standing close to the trees, giving a colorful atmosphere.

    The morning scenery was refreshing, except for Lukrov who gave off a solemn mood.

    She can even hear the birds chirping somewhere.

    For the time being, Chizuru corrected her posture and tried to main as much dignity as possible by stroking the front of her torn off dress on the chest area. However, there were only to a certain extent of her parts that was eptable to conceal right after being torn off shily, Chizuru turned crimson and gnawed on her lips tightly as she had no choice but to sit down.

    Lukrov continued to stare at Chizuru and observes her, but after a short while he threw a cluster of white cloth in front of Chizuru.

    Put this on

    Chizuru unfold the cloth in front of her timidly, it was very simr to a shirt. It was a two piece cloth sewed together so that the neck and both arms woulde out, but this ismon in this world.

    Chizuru meekly muttered Thank You and put on the simple shirt over her torn off dress.

    For the time being, Chizuru stood up and reaffirmed her surroundings after returning to a state where she could maintain her dignity as a person.

    Like Lukrov, the horse tied to the nearby tree seems to be already ready for the journey..

    Are you going?

    In response to Chizurus question, Lukrov nodded silently.

    ErrrI-I thought youd take meIs that okay?

    Regarding this question, Lukrov answered with frightful wrinkles between his eyebrows.

    Are you sure you want to go with me

    An angry voice that springs from the bottom of hell was emitted from the strong knight with a handsome face. The silver helmet he was holding on his arm, and a long sword that sways on the hip. If you are an ordinary woman born and raised in the modern Japan, youll definitely tremble. Even Chizuru is no exception.

    I-I want to go. Id like to go But, thatI already had sexMaybe Ill be abandoned

    The wrinkles between Lukrovs eyebrows have intensified listening to Chizurus flustered exnation. Supposing if such thing was possible.

    Sex?

    Its about sex

    Why would I abandon you for that reason?  Lukrovs lips nted sarcastically. That should be your specialty

    As Chizuru couldnt find the words to retort, she could only suppress her emotions.

    For the time being, she might not longer have any fear of being abandoned, but at the same time, he doesnt trust Chizuru at all as it seemed like he was transmitting an intense sensation that is simr to hatred.

    While he was preparing for the journey, he stared at her with a stern look, is it because he doubted that Chizuru wouldnt stay?

    If so, then why?

    He no longer loves Chizuru

    As he can sense the numerous doubts floating in her eyes, Lukrov stopped leaning against the tree, moved away his body and took one step forward.

    Before I take you back to my mansion; let me rify a few things

    In a business-like tone with a mix of warning, Chizuru had no choice but to nod as she waited nervously for his next phrase.

    I paid arge amount of gold to take you in Theres one thing I want to ask, do you really want to stay in that filthy vige for a long time?

    N-Never

    So, at least I saved you from a poor vige. Ill let you live a good life in the mansion. Also, assign you a courtdy But

    But?

    It was absolutelypassion. Its only righteous for a knight to not forsake an old acquaintance buried in a potato field

    An old acquaintance.

    She thought there was a poisonous arrow pierced into her chest. Chizuru firmly pursed her lips and breathe quietly. Lukrov continued to remark while quietly await for her reaction.

    You will stay in my mansion for a while. If you want to leave after that, you can do as you like. It would be helpful to give a few words this time

    Lukrovs eyes were dark from Chizurus point of view. It feels entirely like she was being challenged.

    No, its not like that. Perhaps, its probably because Lukrov was trying to make sure of Chizuru.

    Chizuru takes a breath, straightened her back and confronted the knight.

    I will not leave, at least not until you try to force me out

    Is that so

    Lukrov snorts mockingly.

    For you Ill remain here unless Ive be a hindrance to you. Ill never leave you

    When Chizuru retorted, the two of them are staring at each other.

    Hes looking at Chizurus tiny body and hair, as if making sure every single detail about her is still the same. Chizuru gazed at Lukrov the same way as he did.

    Seeing Lukrov reflected under the sun certainly feels like 14 years has passed. The glossy ck hair that just started to mix with a little bit of white, the youthful skin tinged with a slight redness has lost its springiness, and grew into a face of a dignified adult man.

    If some of the rumors she heard from Dorothy were true, then thest 14 years he had encountered would have been full with hardships and difficulties.

    Even if his past is like that, it seemed to be loved by Chizuru.

    If she can recall, when they first met; Lukurov didnt knelt down in front of Chizuru so easily. The reason is that, during her stay for a year; nearly half of it was Chizuru harboring unrequited love for Lukrov. At least Chizuru thought so.

    So, dont give up.

    And lets rify one more thing, Chizuru

    Chizurus heart was pounding as he suddenly calls out her name. However, Lukrov turned his back towards Chizuru and started to move forward towards the horse. Over his back, Lukrov told her

    I dont love you anymore Stop expecting any emotions from me

    And, the silver helmet he held earlier was now slowly covering his head.

    Even though she tried to put up with it, a quick stream of tears shed on Chizurus cheek. However, Chizuru wiped it off with the back of her hand before she was aggravated by Lukrov.  My heart is already decided. Im prepared. Never give up.

    I know

    Chizuru answered. I know, dont worry

    The two began their journey, straddled on the horse together, just likest night. Lukrov held the reins and Chizuru was holding a cloth in front of her due to the previous love making. Even though they are so close, their hearts are far apart.

    However, after moving forward towards the forest for a short while, Lukrov was heard sighing and muttering briefly after being silence for a long time.

    No, you dont know anything. Nothing

 Chapter 13

    The journey to get to the castle took another two days, meanwhile Chizuru was learning a lot about the present-day Lukrov.

    One of the things were that Lukrov certainly did receive the status of Duke from the King four years ago, and is living as a ruler of this area at the eastern end of the country. He has no wives and is single, and has no intention of changing the current situation.He hasn''t been in contact with hispanions, the ones that defetead the dragon with him and chizuru, with the exception of one person, he is no longer interacting with anyone else.

    "Leon is the only one that stilles to my house every year. If he knows that you''re in the mansion, he will would get on his way to meet you right now."He exined about the red-haired,rge, and bright knight.

    And about the few others, nostalgic friends who she would like to meet again if possible, Lukrov refused to exin about them.Perhaps there wasn''t much good news based on his outstretched tone and cold look ... so Chizuru stopped asking any more questions.

    Fourteen years.

    What happened to him and to them?

    Did Chizuru''s disappearance cast a dark shadow on them? Is that why Lukrov still looks to be in so much pain when he looks at Chizuru ...

    When the castle town approached, Chizuru was able to feel the liveliness from a distance without having to be told what it was.

    As soon as they passed through a peaceful country town with small houses with farms, passing the roads that were paved with stone pavements, you would coulde across cheerful streets lined with shops-like eaves and craftsmen''s workshops. .

    "Duke, Lukrov! Good luck to you!"

    Quite a few townspeople happily greeted them as they watched Lukrov on the horse pass through the street.Some even give Lukrov some sort of fruit or piece of meat that might be for sale, or some local confectionery.

    And some courageous individuals asked about Chizuru, who isfortably sitting in front of Lukrov.

    "Who is that beautiful woman?"

    Lukrov''s reply was always the same.

    "She''s an old acquaintance. who will stay in the castle as a guest for a while. When you see her in the city, treat her with the respect she deserves."

    Before he knew, Lukrov had stopped using the word "castle" to refer to his residence.Of course, since he is a duke, it may not be a small building like the potato house of Rodolgo, but a building with dignity corresponding to its master, but Chizuru''s imagination inevitably expanded.

    When the horse, carrying the two people, passed through the castle town, the peaceful road surrounded by greenery continued for a while, gently curving, and ... it appeared, that which towered over the horizon ... after all, it was the castle.

    "that?"

    Lukruv nods to Chizuru, who was distracted by the view.

    "It''s big, just because it''s in the frontier. But its not that grand."

    Chizuru carefully looked into the huge stone building that might be called a fortress.The surrounding area is covered with defensive walls. In some ces of the castlethere are towers for shooting arrows against foreign enemies. And one could see thesecurity guards patrolling on the walls of the huge structure.

    Is the castle the outer wall close to the original Gothic architecture in chizuru''s original world.It is made of earthy stone and is wide, with a number of pointed roofs.Lookout towers were installed in two ces, the front and the back.

    As the horse carrying Chizuru and Luklov approached the castle wall, the guards standing on either side of the gate opened the door.The castle gate makes a heavy sound as it slowly opens.

    The gate is so heavy that once you enter it, you might never be able to leave it again.

    Theg of the Duke is shining above the gate.On the velvety ck background, a dreadful dragon embroidery was made with red thread.

    When you entered the castle wall, the actual building was 100 meters away from the wall, and the training grounds for knights spread out so that both sides could be solidified.The knights in armor were training by fighting with their swords, but when they noticed Lukrov, they all took off their helmets and knelt down.

    "Continue training. I wille down after a while. Prepare a sword for me to train."

    At themand of Lukrov, the knights raised their reddish faces and were rousing with excitement.

    ''I remember..How strong and beautiful Lukrov''s sword movement was.Lukelov''s sword, which was so strong that it overwhelms everything in the world, was a sacred technique that would be fascinating even if it was just as training exercise.

    "Even now ... you fight?"

    When Chizuru asked, Lukruv showed a face of a person that didn''t understand.

    "I don''t want my body and arms to rust so I train, there aren''t that many big fights around here ... but sometimes it''s needed."

    After asking, Chizuru realized that she had a weak feeling.They are knights.And the times were the same as in the Middle Ages ... No matter how much evil dragons perished and peace came, the battle for territory and power was done using a sword.Unless killed by fishermen or farmers, they will not let go of their swords until they die.

    It''s such a difficult world to live in, so his fourteen years may have been much longer than what Chizuru thinks.When she thought so, her chest hurt again.

    When one enters the ce, whates to view seems to be arge, elegant hall spread out.

    Anyway, the ceiling is high, and in Japan, the wall continues to the position where the second floor is..How do you get warm in winter?Arge tapestry decorated part of the wall, with a long wooden desk in the center.It''s clean and wide, but is it a bit different from the luxury normal nobles had?T/N I don''t understand the first part of the sentence Sowy =(.

    Some boys with a subordinate attitude are running around energetically, and maids holding cloths and dishes to clean between them are busy.And again, as when they where in the training ground, every person looked towards the floor when they were near Lukrov and bowed their head.

    "Call Arde here"T/N see epilogue/ chapter arde is the maid/ attendant that was with chizuru in her first trip. Remember the one that was looking at them having xxx in the tent? That was Arde.

    Said Lukruv, stopping and ordering one of the maids.

    "Arde? Is that ... Arde?"

    Chizuru, who was walking beside him after being taken by Luklov, was so surprised that she stopped moving.Arde is a girl who helped Chizuru during herst stay, and at the end of the day she was a close friend of her, they were like sisters. shee was one of several other people chizuru wanted to meet again, besides Lukrov.

    With a slight nod, Lukrov affirmed.

    When Chizuru tried to speak again a blonde woman hade out of the doorway and shouted in in a joyous tone.

    "Chizuru-sama! Well! Isn''t it Chizuru-sama!"

    The blonde woman rushed up and ran towards them she was so happy that it looked like she was dancing in front of Chizuru and Lukrov.

    "A, Arde ... is it you?"

    To her surprise, Chizuru''s voice seemed to show that she stunned.

    Arde at that time was just 14 or 15 years old, and was just a pretty girl with freckles on her skin.But now in front of her there is atall, sophisticated, adult woman.Wearing the clothes of a maid and wearing a white scarf on her head, her vives makes her look very beautiful.

    Arde filled her blue eyes with tears and nodded with aughing expression.

    "No way ... I alway wondered if this day would really wille ... Ah, Lord Lukrov, Lady Chizuru, it was worth waiting. It''s been so long ... Oh!"

    Chizuru lost her words due to the joy and the embarrassment.

    One year and two months for Chizuru.

    Fourteen years for them.

    Arde took out something like a handkerchief from her waist and continued, wiping her tears."You have not changed mistress Chizuru, I thought it was a dream.

    This time Chizuru seemed to cry andugh.

    "In my world, only a year and a half passed. Arde you became very beautiful. I didn''t recognize you immediately."

    As Arde slowly stood up, the two women held hands and smiled.

    "One year? Well, that''s ..."

    "I didn''t think there was Arde here. Maybe you''ve been with Lukrov ever since?"

    When Chizuru asked, Arde turned her surprised face towards Lukrov instead of answering.

    "You didn''t exin to Chizuru?"

    "eh"

    Chizuru settled as the whole body felt cold from the tip of his foot.

    No way ...

    Arde, who has grown beautifully, now seems to be in bnce with Lukrov even in age. Shewasn''t particrly under Lukrov''s control that she had been with him for 14 years ... what a ... no wonder ...

    Chizuru turn to look at Lukrov, but he had only the deep wrinkles between his eyes that she was already familiar with, and the rest was his cold and expressionless expression.

    Only Arde is confused and looking at them alternately.

    "There''s nothing more to exin now ... Arde, don''t say anything, show Chizuru to the room."

    "... Yes. Is that all right in the room?"

    Luklov, staring at Chizuru with a painful face, as if he had several needles on his skin, looked at them and then turned his back.

    "There is no other room that can be prepared immediately.

    Chizuru never regretted that she had returned to her original world so much until this moment arrived.

 Chapter 14

    The Castle of stone --2

    "Chizuru-sama?"

    Arde spoke quietly to Chizuru, who was staring at Luklov''s back as if stunned, she was unable to respond properly.

    Her head bes nk and her feet be unstable.

    If Lukrov had a mistress, it was a matter of course, and Chizuru wouldn''t even have the right to be hurt this way.However, Chizuru was actually hurt, and it was difficult to return an amiable smile to Arde, who may be in love with Lukrov, no matter how old she was.

    "Chizuru, I''ll take you to your room. Oh, there are so many things to talk about, and where should I start?"

    Guided by Arde,following her, Chizuru began to walk in a castle in a state of apathy.

    Sure enough, the inside of Lukrov''s castle was quiterge, and it seemed easy to get lost without guidance.But Arde was such a great guide that made itclear that she seemed to be familiar with the ce, She led Chizuru while adding exnations about the ce.

    As she walked through the corridor, climbed a long staircase, and came to the door on the second floor with a very beautiful iron decoration, Arde smiled and said, "It''s here."

    "here?"

    "This is Chizuru-sama''s room. Most of it is ready. Please open it."

    For a moment, she hesitated, but Chizuru slowly stepped forward and pushed the door.

    And took a big breath.

    A small room was viewed, it had a wooden four-poster bed covered with borately embroidered cloth, a strikingly vivid and beautiful carpet, andpreparedsophisticated furnishings, and it was clean. There was a fragrance of afresh like herb.

    ''The size of the room is not so big, but I don''t think it''s just a guest room ... I felt that there was special meaning to this space.'' thought Chizuru

    Chizuru walked into the room for a few steps and looked back at Arde, standing outside the door, smiling.

    "Did you like it?"

    Chizuru could only nod.

    She was wondering if she would be thrown into a lonely room somewhere far away. Next to the bed there are small cabs with drawers.Even the flowers are adorned, and the soft sun is shining through a small window that seems to be used for daylight.

    Arde, who does not break her smile, slowly entered the room.

    "I''ve been taking care of this room for a long time. Lukurov, said to be sure to keep it clean every day.After all ... "

    Saying that, Arde squinted with deep emotion.

    "Is this your room Arde?"

    "No way," Ardeughed out loud."No one has stayed here yet. Four years ago, after receiving this castle from the King, Mr. Lukrov prepared this room and I have been in charge of it ever since."

    ''I don''t understand more and more things.''

    Preparing such a clean room and keeping it unattended for a long time was a less efficient way of thinking, one unlikely of Lukrov.Moreover, this ce is on the second floor of the main tower, which is thought to have a series of important rooms.

    ''Perhaps Ruklov''s own room is not too far away.''

    Arde stood in front of Chizuru and looked down at her former mistress with a perplexed look.

    In the old days, Arde was smaller and slender than Chizuru, but now Arde is a few centimeters taller and has a richer body.

    "Lukrov said that I shouldn''t say anything extra ..."

    Arde continued, after seeing if anyone was around.

    "Lucklov never professed what this room was for. Even to me, who is in charge of it. I believe that the new servants, who are unaware of its purpose think that it is for his wife who will someday greet him. I don''t doubt, but I understand. "

    The confident voice of Arde gently whispered to Chizuru''s ears.

    "Lukrov was waiting for Chizuru ... I''m sure."

    Chizuru was stuck and didn''t know what to say so she pressed her lips.

    ''Arde doesn''t know yet.Lukrov has already dered that he does not love me, and that he dered that it is only his duty as a knight to help Chizuru.''

    "Arde is Lukrov''s ... as his mistress?"

    Although the suspisions she had have almost gone away thanks to what Arde told her about the room eing for Lukruv''s future wife. Chizuru had to ask. In responseArde opened her ayes wide and startedughing out loud.

    "No way! Chizuru-sama, I''m already married. I even have one daughter."

    ording to what she said, Arde has long served Lukrov, but he hardly returned to his mansion until he settled in the castle.Meanwhile, Arde fell in love with one of his followers, got married, and had a daughter who will be six years old this year. In this castle, she was given a room in the section where the servants were staying, and there are three families living there. That was her rtioship with Lukrov.

    "For a long time, there were bad rumors about Lord Lukrov. Did you know?"

    "Yeah ... I heard about assassins and about being the king''s minion."

    "We are just servants, we just serve silently. I don''t really know anything. As I said, until Lukelov settled down in this castle, Mr. Lukrov hardly returned home. But Mr. Luklov, the ruler of this area, and he is very calm and is loved by the people. Did you see the castle town? "

    Chizuru nodded, remembering the faces of the townspeople who greeted Luklov in a bright but respectful manner.

    The same applies to the servants in the castle.

    ''He is so respected that I can''t think of him as being a ck assassin, or the minion of a king, being crazy about money and woman.''

    "I can''t say anymore... I shouldn''t say anything else. Please ask Mr. Lukrov directly to know more."

    "But if I had asked for the opportunity to talk, he would have gone somewhere and wouldn''t want to see me anymore."

    "Oh dear"

    Arde shouted."I haven''t told you yet. "

    Then the blond servant smiled with a smile as she pointed to the elongated wooden inner door in the corner of the room.

    "The door over there is connected to Lukrov''s room. It doesn''t even have a key."

    When Chuzuru was about to cry out, the two women turned around as they heard a manly voiceing from the entrance to the room.

    "Lukrov "

    Lukruv, wearing his training clothes, leans against the stone frame at the entrance and folds his arms while giving Chizuru a cold line of sight.The expression was gloomy, and it felt somehow sad, so Chizuru stood back and nced into his shadowy face.

    "You can go down, Arde. When the dinner is ready,e call for Chizuru."

    Arde bowed her head and obediently obeyed the master''s words.

    Then, on the way back, she murmured something to Chizuru and left.The room in which Lukrov and Chizuru were alone was immediately swallowed in silenced.

 Chapter 15

    The castle of stone --3

    ''No matter how much lukruv frowns there is no doubt, he is still handsome.After seeing him again, I''ve only seen this kind of difficult expression, but when I saw him in the past, he was incredibly kind, calm, and a little cute. ''

    While pulling away such sweet memories ... Chizuru thought about the hidden 14 years of Lukrov.

    It might be rude to see him smiling in the past, but this is what gaves her the courage to see him in the present. Thinking about the past Chizuru managed to stand straight even when she received a cold nce from Lukrov.

    "Really ... Is it okay if I stay in this room? If you don''t like it, it''s okay I to go further away from you and to another room."

    Lukrov shook his head silently.

    Perhaps it means don''t worry.Chizuru managed to smile just a little.

    "It''s a clean room. That''s ... I''ll use it with care. I watch out so that I don''t stain a nice carpet."

    "I don''t care about that."

    To put it inly, Lukrov entered the room, and is leaning on the stone frame.

    He the passes through Chizuru carefully so that he won''t make eye contact, stops in front of the bed, and sits down on the gorgeous embroidered sheets.

    "You are staying here?"

    With a dry voice, a short, monotonous question was posed, and Chizuru nodds as a form answer.

    "Are you okay here? Did you understand that the inner door was connected to my room?"

    Lukrov muffled his chin and showed the example inner door.Unlike ordinary doors that separate the room from the corridor, this inner door is narrow and minimally decorated.There is no key.In other words ... it''s just a decoration.

    "Lukrov will always be there, behind that door."

    "I ... I came back to this world because I wanted to see you Luklov. If I can stay here, there is no better ce."

    Lukrov turned his challenging eyes on Chizuru, who responded modestly but clearly.A glorious line of sight, as if he didn''t believe in Chizuru''s words, making her narrow her shoulders.

    "Of course, I know that you no longer like me. Don''t worry, I won''t do any weird coercion and I won''t ruin the ce by acting like that just because I''m an old lover.

    Chizuru cut off the words and wondered how best to convey them.The answer is not simple: a few seconds of silence separates them.

    "... I wanted to apologize to you. I''m sorry I broke up without saying anything at that time. I know that such a line is not enough, but but"

    But what is it?

    Chizuru couldn''t find what else to say. ''But does he want repentance?But if you can, please forgive me?I feel that you are all different.''

    "But I''m sorry ..."

    Chizuru whispered in a trembling voice while bowing his head.That was what she was doing right now.

    For a while there was no answer from Lukrov. Like if hedoesn''t know how to answer the gleaming apology.

    Then, as if Chizuru''s thought had been heard, Ruklov stood up and stood in front of her as he stood up and moved forward.The body is so big and strong that you itwrappes her with strength, and gives off a heavy pressure like a giant.Many would tremble and run away in front of such Lukrov.

    Lukrov scooped Chizuru''s chin with one hand and turned it upwards.

    "I don''t want an apology"

    Apletely warm smile crossed Lukrov''s neat face."Neither a confession nor a justification. There is only one reason I put you here."

    Suddenly  Chizuru gasps as her mouth is blocked by a brutal strong kiss.

    Regardless of that, Lukrov continued to kiss Chizuru, and with his free arm, he pulled her body towars him.

    "!"

    Chizuru sighed as the bulging knight''s hot rod, which she could even feel over his clothes, was pressed against her abdomen.

    "Ah"

    The core of the body, which has been thrilled in the past many expiriences made her remember the pleasure. Soon she bes so hot that it seems like she will melt.Chizuru bes embarrased, her cheeks turns red and tries to separate from him but Lukruv holds her tighter.

    "I can hold you ... repeatedly, again, again. It doesn''t matter if it is day or night, you have no veto power to decline, and that you will not recieve any form of affection from me ... You just have to fulfill my desires. And open your legs here, in front of me. "

    At the same time, coldness that makes one tremble and the heat like feeling that burns were what was felt from the tone of lukro''s voice.

    "If that''s all right, let''s put you here. If you don''t like it, you''ll have a room in another ce. But you can only choose now. Once you choose this ce, you''ll have no escape."

    "Lukro ... v"

    Chizuru''s mind reminded her of a memory of when she had just returned to Japan.

    Her single blood-connected family ... Her grandmothery on a bed in a hospital. Her grandaughter, who she had raised up like a daughter, suddenly disappeared, worsening her weak heart.

    She had red and swollen eyes because of the drugs, nutritional supplements, and tubes. She didn''t even know her own name, and when she saw Chizuru returning, she woke up and screamed in delight.

    Chizuru, went near her grandmother, hugged each other on the bed and cried.

    Then, she was taken care of and nursed by Chizuru for a year or so. Her weak heart never healed but she got be with her grandaughter.

    Gentle, generous, strong, that was her grandmother.

    Including Luklov, she was the person she loved the most loved in the world. Returning to her, gave her no regrets.

    But it only came at the expense of being a way from Lukruv for fourteen years in his perspective.

    Chizuru closed her eyes tightly and stopped the tears that were about to overflow from them.

    When she opened her eyes again, Luklov was there.

    A big, strong, solitary warrior who hides a gentle and gentle heart behind a fearsome character that everyone fears. Lukrov is the nly one she loves, a man that is fearsome but gentle, a man that gave her the joy of experiencing the pleasures of being a woman for the first time.

    He''s no longer a twenty-two year old youth.

    The 14 years may have robbed him of his love for Chizuru, hurt him, and frozen his hot heart. His eyes, which are now aged, there are scratches of old wounds she doesn''t recognize, but he still has a deep deep voice. All of him, everything, was still lovely

    "OK"

    A single tear slowly travels down Chizuru''s cheek.Chizuru murmured while firmly looking at the man she loved in the swaying field of view."It''s okay, Luklov. If that''s what you want."

    The answer from Lukrov was another intense kiss.

    The lips of the knight traced Chizuru''s ears, biting her earlobe with a hot breath.The back muscles warped back and Chizuru''s body was pressed against Ruklov.

    "Huh ... Ah ..."

    Chizuru''s body was scooped up, and when she noticed it, she was instantly thrown to her bed.On top of that, Luklov''s big body oveid hers, and there is only a slight distance from Chizuru''s body and his.

    Lukrov''s sharp eyes, looking down at Chizuru, were so lustful that he could eat her just by looking at her, and that made Chizuru''s body quiver.

    But Luklov did not wait.

    He entered her forcibly as if it wasurgent, without any caress or forey,he embeded himself in Chizuru with a hard warp, he thrust his hips up violently.again and again.

    When Chizuru is about to scream, he shuts her with his lips.

    As the climax approached, Luklov hugged Chizuru with all his strength.Then, while snarling between the clenched teeth and roaring like a beast, and a monologue that could not be heard, he reached the end inside Chizuru.

    The moment she became one with Luklov ... Chizuru thought, with a breath of breath.

    ''No matter what route shw would have to take, her life will end up here.Here near him.Even if there isn''t any love for her anymore''

 Chapter 16

    New Life-1

    Chizuru''s consciousness slowly emerged after slowly rxing in a mysteriouslyfortable dream.

    As the light illuminated her eyes and the noise a little bird made from singing reached her ears chizuru opened her eyes, the first thing that came into view was the sheets, which were an unfamiliar and delicately embroidered.

    "Hmm"

    She felt a sense of incongruity around her body and tried to twist herself. But it wasn''t her body, it was anothers ... she felt the warmth of a human lying there.

    "eh"

    Chizuru suddenly lost her sleepiness, and looked up while lying down. Because her view was blocked by something and could not move her upper body.

    The origin of the warmth was immediately known to her.

    Lukrov who was beside her and didn''t wear anything.

    He was hugging her naked with his arm under the sheets.

    Chizuru blinked several times and tried to remember why he was here.

    ''That''s it! Yesterday I finally arrived at the castle of Luklov, and was given a room. I met Arde again.''

    ''After that, I was embraced many times ...''

    ["You have no veto power. And there is no love from me ... ''](lukrov speaking to chizuru) TN this is her remembering what he told her.

    "........."

    Chizuru was quietly fascinated by Lukrov''s sleeping face that was illuminated by the morning sun.

    Clear and beautiful eyebrows and long ck eyshes. Deeply carved features and masculine chin to the neck lines.

    ''I always want to touch that throat that moves up and down with his shallow breathing.''TN LOL does she want to kill him?

    And a trained steel-like body.

    (A beautiful person ...)

    Chizuru''s chest overflows with memories and love.

    ''I''m d I came back here. It was really nice to see him again. It was nice to be able to be held in his arms again, even if there was no love from him.''

    She should have been able to stay in Japan and immerse herself in the kindness of his that she remembers. But Chizuru didn''t choose that. Being able to be next Luklov, even if the only rtion thay have is a sexual one was better than being far away.

    (This is good, isn''t it?)

    Her chest seemed to be crushed by the pain, and tears slowly overflowed in the corners of her eyes, but Chizuru gently reached out and put her finger on Luklov''s cheek.

    ''His beard is growing a little. The shaving here is done only with a sharpened knife, so when I first saw it, I was afraid of him.'' Recalling that, Chizuru smiled a little.

    ''It may be possible to get his love back someday, or maybe that day will nevere. But still, I wanted to thank him for remembering me for 14 years.''

    Chizuru, who was tracing the shadow of his beard with her finger, noticed a slight anomaly and turned his eyes upward.

    Luklov woke and stares at Chizuru. Chizuru hurriedly tried to retract her hand.

    "Why stop?"

    However, Luklov''s arm extended to Chizuru''s hand, and he firmly blocked her movement.

    "I ... I''m sorry."

    "Don''t apologize"

    Lukruv moved closer to her, and the two naked bodies, hidden under the sheets, got vividly intertwined .

    ''Even after doing so many actions, I can feel the firm erection of Lukrov''s male part.'' Chizuru lost her voice and blushed.

    Chizuru''s inside was sore as if she had a slight burn.

    Luklov was so fierce yesterday that Chizuru was wondering if she could ept him inside her again this morning.

    Luklov looks at Chizuru as if he were exploring her.

    "... Are you hurt?"

    "Uh-huh! It''s okay ... and I can ..."

    Chizuru appealed, but Lukrov''s expression soon became stony. Even shallow wrinkles are engraved between his eyebrows.

    "Sure, I said you didn''t have the option ..." "But I have no intention of hurting you. I don''t have that hobby in the first ce."

    Chizuru nodded as she turned red.

    Now she remember and realized it just a few hours ago.

    Although Lukrov''s act of love was always fierce, deep inside he was always full of kindness and he cares for every corner of her body.

    ''Sometimes I was overwhelmed, but in such cases, it was something that I always valued after the fact. That''s the case even now ... ''

    Before leaving Chizuru, Lukrov regretted it for a while, then he slowly raised his upper body on the bed. His wide shoulders and thick chest are exposed to the morning sun, giving off a dignified look.

    On the day of their reunion, Lokrov loved Chizuru all night on the forest. ''Its been a long time since I''ve seen him naked but I have seen him twice in a row. Certenly, he feels a little thin,pared to how he was 14 years ago but hi has not lost streghth. On the contrary, Lukruv is far more stronger now than what he was in the past, he is like an engraved sculpture.

    Looking down at Chizuru, lying naked with her naked body hidden in the sheets, Luklov pulled the bed sheets.

    "Khh, Lu, Lu .. krov"

    Chizuru hurriedly tried to hide her chest with her arms, but his hand grabbed her and interrupted that action much faster than she thought.

    "Ah, this is what it means to be a battle-hardening knight''s lover .''

    Luklov''s upper body covered Chizuru''s upper body, and his lips sucked on Chizuru''s chest that got dyed red.

    "Huh ..."

    Upon hearing Chizuru''s moaning, Luklov repeated the same action on the other tip.

    "Ah ..."

    A meaningless pant leaked from Chizuru''s lips, and Luklov continued to gently caress them for a while with his tongue. to taste the hardened buds. Chizuru''s hands are pressed against the bed, and her body begins to tremble while looking, at the knight of fire.

    Then Luklov suddenly stopped.

    "I''ll forgive you with this for what you did to me this morning"

    A dry voice whispered to her ears, and Chizuru''s spine quivered even more.

    Lecrov quickly stood up leaving Chizuru in the bed, and, while still naked, headed for the inner door that was connected to his room. And before opening the door, he advised while looking back at Chizuru.

    "Rest today"

    Finally, the door closed.

    [ I''ll forgive you ...?]

    Chizuru was struck by the sudden pressure and disappointment that was thrown in the middle, and looked at the door where Lukrov disappeared into.

    She gathered up the sheets, moved her body, and tried to leave the bed but didn''t get much sess.

    Still, after being left alone for a while, Chizuru gradually became clear about the surroundings. From outside one can hear the noise of people working. It wasn''t that noisy, but it felt that many people were active here and there.

    ''What should I do? I''m hungry ...''

    When she tried to get out of bed, she felt a slight pain in her hips, It was i bit dificult for her to walk. Chizuru managed to get out of bed and clumsyly walk a few steps like a penguin, standing in front of what she thought was a closet.

    ''I remembered Arde saying that most of the things were in the room, and opened the door.''

    Then, "Wow" Said Chizuru in a loud voice and was surprised.

    The scent of dried flowers spread out fluffily, and colorful medieval dresses appeared from the inside.

    ''Even if it is called multicolored, the dyeing technology here is not so advanced, so it is a calm color overall, but there are still many colors. Dark green, ivory, light pink, red ... ''

    Although not shy, most of them had decorations and embroidery that were too gorgeous to call them one-piece dresses.

    Chizuru slowly picked up one of them.

    And ... she tried to fit it gently to her body, the feeling was as if one were joining thest piece of the big puzzle.

    ''It was perfect a perfect fit''.

    Chizuru didn''t even know what to think about it, and settled on the spot, holding in her chest a clean dress that no one had ever put on.

    ''Luclov left me in this room ... what should I do? Just as he said, was I just an outlet for his desires? Was it his duty as a knight? Or ...''

    At that moment, Chizuru looked up at surprised as the door suddenly sounded.

    Apparently she was so absorbed in her emotions that she missed the approaching person. After answering "Yes", Chizuru was dismayed when she realized that she had just has sheets wrapping her naked body..

    However, it was Arde who showed her face through the door.

    "Good morning, Chizuru-sama ... Lukruv said that I should take care of you, even if it''s early in the morning."

    "Well?"

    Chizuru blushed again, with Arde showing a refreshing smile that more than necessary.

    Arde''s smile just seemed to look through what happenedst night--and this morning--.

    ''Oh god, will my heart hold like this from the first day?'' Chizuru was appealing to heaven.

 Chapter 17

    New Life-2

    Arde offered to help change her clothes, but Chizuru gently refused and chose a dress with the most mature design and put it on herself.

    Meanwhile, Arde was fixing the disordered bed, but just by ncing, the maid''s eyes were narrowed meaningfully, and she knew that what she imagined was right. That it ended as she thought it did. As expected, Arde, who had finished preparing the bed, looked back at Chizuru with a smile that could only be described as Ninmari.

    TN ninmari is a satisfied expression. Like those with closed lips, but wide smile and with the eyes closed that give of an evil feeling. :-]

    "Was Mr. Luklov gentle with you?"

    "Khh"

    Chizuru screamed for a moment, fluttering like a goldfish."... Well, is it so easy to understand?"

    With Chizuru''s original and innovative responce, Arde gently broke her smile and took a few steps to stand in front of Chizuru. Using her familiar hand, adjusting the strings that squeeze the waist of Chizuru''s dress, she exins in a tone that resembles that of a mother.

    "Actually, I came to this room oncest night after Chizutsuru went to bed. To let you know when dinner was ready. Then ... Lukrov-san was there. Chizuru-san who fell asleep was being held by him like someone very important would. "

    Arde pointed to the bed, rememering when he cut off herwords.

    "... Well, it wasn''t very disturbing. And it was a really long while since I saw Mr. Lukrov smiling a bit."

    "ehhh"

    ''Lukrov''s smile? I haven''t seen him like that yet, but before I knew it, he just showed it to Arde... I seemed to fall asleep in the middle the violent actst night, and I had no memory of it. He ... was it that he was happy?''

    "It''s beautiful. I always admired Chizuru''s straight ck hair."

    Arde carefully touches Chizuru''s hair when she pulls out ab from somewhere.

    The sunrise over the window was so dazzling, the sun rose even higher, Chizuru decided to let herself be taken care of by the maid. From now on, new days like this will begin at this castle. Eather way, she was given a room, and a maid is taking care of her.

    The current significance of Chizuru''s existence for Luklov may be just an outlet for his desires, but it may also be an important person for him..

    ''Is there anything I can do? What will my new life be like from now on?''

    Chizuru and Arde, who were ready to go down, went down to the first floor and headed for the dining room.

    There was already a bit of noise before passing through the entrance, and many people were busying and going, carrying meals and cleaning drinks like the wine that spilled on the floor.

    The dining room was asrge as the hall, with long wooden tables lined up in a row in the center. It seems that all the people who live in the castle are gathered here, from low-ranking people such as servants and maids, to those with fine physiques who may be knights. Like if the ce was a buffet, they eat all the dishes that are put on the table.

    It seems like there is no set time for breakfast and dinner. Around those times people juste when they can and leave when they want to.

    "That seat is where Mr. Lukrov seats. He is always sitting over there."

    As arde pointed out the ce, Chizuru turned to look at it.

    If you look closely, it is true that the order of the seats is not at all chaotic, there was a higher seat on one end of the table, and a luxurious chair with dark red velvet was ced on that ce. On the table, many knights and other people are gathering on that side, and the servants seem to be concentrated on the opposite end.

    I''m sure that the dark red chair was for Ruklov, and the higher the position in the castle, the more closer one can sit to him.

    "Where do you usually eat Arde?"

    "Me? I''m just a servant, so I''m on that side. Mr. Lukrov said that one should take a sit without worrying about the location, but naturally it has be like it is now. "

    Arde, of course, pointed her finger at the end of the table, opposite the seat. The servants are brightly sitting around the ce and, although few, the children are walking around. The overall atmosphere is cheerful.

    On the other hand, when she turned my eyes toward the throne, the strong, fleshly knights with a tough face were silently moving their hands on their te. Some people have been wearing armor since the morning, and there is a very airy atmosphere. At least, it wasn''t a casual atmosphere.

    "Can I also eat where you eat, in the same table?"

    "Well, Chizuru, that is ridiculous. Are you not our lord''s, Mr. Lukruv, future wife? Please wait I''ll put a seat next to his. Alright?"

    Without waiting for Chizuru''s reply, Arde was walking towards the throne, Lukruv''s seat.

    Then Chizuru, who is still unfamiliar with the people, has no choice but to follow her. She managed to catch up with Arde, and pulled her hand to exin the situation.

    "It''s a misunderstanding, Arde. I''m no longer Lukrov''s lover. He told that I was just a mistress ... I couldn''t sit next to him."

    "eh?"

    Arde turned around and looked down at Chizuru with a mysterious look."Mistress ...? That should be ..."

    Suddenly, Chizuru''s shoulder was suddenly caught in his big hand.

    As she was surprised and looked up to the side, Lukruv was there--He is not in an armor. He wears what looks like formal clothes with a sleeveless tunic on top, and his feet are fixed with long boots that reach the knees.

    "Arde, thank you. You should go eat. I will guide Chizuru."

    Following the firm instructions of Luklov, Arde stepped back and bowed, saying, "Yes, Luklov-sama." However, before leaving, Arde still looked at Chirari without saying anything.

    "Lukrov, I ... I was thinking of eating with Arde ..."

    Chizuru said as softly as she could and looked up at Lukrov with a nce.

    ''Luklov seems to have finished preparing for the morning, and the shadow of his growing beard is shaved cleanly, and his hair is also neatly trimmed. His quiet yet dignified look certainly reminds me of the owner of an old castle. It is the appearance of an adult duke, not one of a 22-year-old young knight.''

    "You shouldn''t have botheredming here, the food would have been brought to your room ..."

    Lukrov groans while gazing at Chizuru.

    ''He is looking at me from the top of my head to my toes. It''s the same look an artist has when he looks dissappinted by how poor/ ugly his painting looks.''TN: #1 at the bottom.

    How Rude.

    ''It is understandable that a mere mistress shouln''t go to a public ce to eat where all the people will see her. I know. But I could have just sat all the way on the back, opposite from where he is seating. He shouldn''t be like that..''

    "I''m going over there. Don''t worry, I''ll try to keep it as inconspicuous as possible."

    Chizuru tried to leave Lukrov, aiming for a seat that was for his employees.

    However, Lukrov put his hand on Chizuru''s shoulders and turned her towards him.

    "It can''t be helped. It''s a good time to let people know who you are."

    Then, her hand was held tightly by his big, bulging hand.

    ''Just like new lovers would hold each other. Just like the old days.''

    "But Luklov ..."

    Despite Chizuru''s embarrassment, Lukrov pulled her hand and headed to the throne. When they start approuching the dark red chair, the knights look at each other and start staring at them. Some even had their mouth open while they were eating.

    It didn''t seem like she was weed... and Chizuru felt like escaping.

 Chapter 18

    New Life-3

    The scenery looked different, Chizuru realized it only when she was seated next to Luklov.

    Everybody else has his own eyes on their dish but as expected, Lukrov has a decent servant boy who serves his master as hard as he can.

    "Mr. Lukrov, do want a meal for thisdy too? Nice to meet you, I''m Nadal. Please tell me anything."

    a boy of age of thirteen or fourteen, with brown curly-haired who called himself Nadal greeted Chizuru who was sitting next to Luklov.

    His big eyes have a honey-like color, his face has freckles scattered around the youthful skin. He is a slender and an intelligent boy with a very friendly face. A lovely little boy.

    "Nice to meet you, Nadal. I''m Chizuru ... but you don''t have to use honorifics."

    With a smile, Chizuru replied, and Nadal''s cheeks became visibly red.

    "Lukrov-sama!"

    Nadal whispers at Lukrov. But Chizuru could hear the whole conversation.

    "Where did you find such a wonderful woman? I just thought you were just going to visit that lonely vige."

    Visiting a vige?

    Is he referring to the vige of Rodolgo? In other words, Lukrov was only visiting the vige, he was not going to go find me?

    "Nadal, keep your mouth down"

    Lukrov''s voice was rigorous, but somehow it sounded like he was enjoying the boy''s liveliness.

    "She''s my guest. Treat her like that. Bring her food ... but don''t give her anything to drink."

    "Don''t you drink?"

    Nadal was busy looking around Lukrov and Chizuru alternately.

    "No sake"

    Luklov affirmed.

    Chizuru''s face turn red.

    Here, there is a custom of drinking low alcoholic sweet wine simr to wine instead of water. Most people have been drinking since they were very young, so they are immune. But Chizuru was different.

    ''I can''t drink alcohol at all, but I tried to forcibly drink it several times because there was nothing else I could eat ... I would get drunk and faint. Each time, it was Lukrov who took care of me.''

    "... do you remember?"

    Chizuru murmured as Nadal left his seat to prepare for the meal.

    Sitting on the chair of the master of the castle, where dignified wooden decorations and dark velvet give off dignity, Luklov responded to Chizuru, keeping his calm look and slightly raising one eyebrow.

    "I can''t forget even if I want to forget. Sometimes you were vomiting on my horse and sometimes you tried to undress in front of everyone. And I had to carry you who couldn''t walk because you had hangover all day long. I had to walk ... It was such a cliff that I couldn''t ride a horse. Well, I wouldn''t say anymore. "

    "Lukrov"

    Chizuru shouted in shyness, but Luklov was calm.

    ''I''m d that he remembered it for 14 years, but I feelplicated because he could forget about it. However, I was happy when I saw Lukrov shinning of happiness under the mask of calmness when he spoke about his memories.''

    Lukruv always answerd the same thing when someone asked about Chizuru, that she was a guest and that she had to be treated as such.

    ''What should I do with this?''

    Chizuru, who was released from the breakfast table, decided to return to her room with Arde who came to escort her.

    Lukrov seems to spend the day at the training ground and is not here.

    He said that I would not have the opportunity to see his face until lunch.

    The inhabitants of this castle, including the knights, were generally well-trained and polite. It seems that they ept Lukrov''s "guest" deration without hesitating and without investigating Chizuru''s existence more than necessary.

    It was a mystery what kind of rumor was standing behind it.

    "Lukrov said that you should take a good rest today."

    "Yeah ... but I wasn''t told that I couldn''t go outside ... Can I show you around the castle today?"

    "Well. I don''t care, but is Chizuru-sama''s body okay?"

    "No"

    ''Granted, the woman''s part between my legs stillined of a light, sore sensation, but that doesn''t mean I have to lie in bed all day.''

    "Yes, there are many ces I want to show you."

    Arde looked at the water in the vase next to the bed and looked up at the sun through the window.

    "The weather seems to be fine, so let''s do that. Lukruv did told me that if you want to leave that castle it can''t be without his permission. But you can explore the castle without his permission.

    "Is that so?"

    If you want to go out, you can go out, just like Lukrov said.

    I feel that there are some contradictions in his behavior towards me, and I still can''t grasp the standing position of my ce is this castle. However, if he says I shouldn''t leave the castle without permission, I will follow that instruction.

    Maybe ... Chizuru must first regain his trust.

    Love, or something like that has to be built on that trust.

    "Of course I will only be in the permitted ces. And if possible, I would like to see your husband and daughter."

    "Just that? My Husband aside, my daughter is a mess."

    Fufu, Arde smirked and looked happy.

    They left the room and slowly began to walk through arge castle, where there seemed to be many ces to see.

    Arde''s daughter is Noah, a cute girl with blue eyes that looks like her mother and ck curly hair from her father.

    All the children of the servants from baby to 12 years old all stay on one corner of the castle, its like a modern daycare. After turning 12, they start working at a daycare.

    "Chizuru-sama! y with Noah!"

    There are roughly 15 children.On the other hand, there were only two adults, one elderly woman, who was about 60 years old, and another teenage young girl. When Chizuru faced Arde, it became a great deal of fuss.

    "No, y with me again! The guy called Dharmasan Cnder!"

    "Wait, wait, it''s more fun to y with everyone. Come here."

    "Hooray!"

    When she calls out to the children, a circle around Chizuru will be created in no time.

    Their eyes were shining brightly and their clothes wer simple, but they had a lovely plump, well-nourished look . Even if there are some individual differences, everyone is fine and carefree.

    Chizuru couldn''t stop feeling proud of herself.

    Because this is proof of how good Luklov is as the castle''s owner. ''I''ve seen some dukes and counts of this era that force these children to work and not even eat.''

    "Let''s y new game now. Do you know tag?"

    "Yup!"

    "of course!"

    "Chizuru-sama is a demon.

    Chizuru waspletely transformed into a kindergarten teacher. However, being surrounded by and admired by the bright children was a heart-warming experience. Originally, Chizuru loved children, and she is happy to be able to do something useful.

    It''s a new life ... Chizuru wanted to have a role or a job, rather than just waiting for Lukruv in bed just like a mistress.

    "I''m sorry, Chizuru. You can stop if you don''t like it."

    Arde and an elderly woman said together, but Chizuru shook her head, while being surrounded by children.

    "No, don''t worry because it''s fun. I want toe here every day."

    It was true.

    Chizuru enjoyed the innocence of the children, and the children were absorbed in the existence of their new big sister. Chizuru taught them some Japanese y, and on the contrary, they taught her about this nursery rhyme.

    Time passed quickly, and before she knew it, Chizuru spent most of the morning in these children''s gardens.

    When it was time for lunch, Chizuru and Arde left the children and were walking around the main tower.

    "Next there will be a training ground for the knights. Did you see it when you entered the castle?"

    Pointing at the dusty square, Arde told Chizuru. At a distance, they could see men fighting with various weapons.

    Chizuru nodded.

    "Yeah. It''s big and wide even from here."

    "Sometimes I invite customers and have jousts here. Luklov doesn''t seem to like it very much, but it''s rare."

    "I see"

    It was true that young knights, especially, were often willing to take part in demonstrating their strength and getting ahead and winning prizes. Lukrov himself showed his strength in this way when he was young, and stood up to the sight of the king. But now there is no need to prove anything.

    ''Lukrov was a warrior who would only fight because he had to fight.

    That''s why his sword was always cool and even beautiful.''

    Chizuru suddenly whispered:

    "Look at it"

    "What? Did you say anything?"

    "Ah, yeah, I wonder ... maybe I''ll be able to see Lukrov a little. It''s fine to look from a distance, I do not want to get in the way."

    "Oh, of course, I think it''s okay. It''s not forbidden to look at it. The young girls in the castle evene to see."

    "Is that so?"

    Chizuru listened to Arde''s exnation, feeling reassured and a little jealous.

    Since he is training with real weapons, she is forbidden to enter the hall, but she is happy even if she only sees him in the distance.

    "Shall we go?"

    Arde herself said that it was dangerous, but guided Chizuru to a ce where it was easy to watch.

    There wern''t that many people beacuse of the time, there was a corner where even chairs like a bench were prepared, and the two sat down there.

    ''You can fully see the muscrly trained men fighting with horrifyingly shaped spears and axes whose names you don''t even know, and knights on horse fighting with a long sword. Even Hollywood movies will not have this power. After all, if you are not careful, the sand and pebbles rolled up by the knights will fly away.''

    It was interesting ... Chizuru couldn''t find the person she wantedto look at, no matter how much she searched.

    Yes, there is no Lukrov.

    "Chizuru-sama! Why did youe to a ce like this?"

    Suddenly a voice was heard from behind, and Chizuru and Arde looked back at the same time.

    Nadal, the youth who served in the morning, was approaching them with his eyes openly exaggerated. The appearance was so dramatic that Chizuru bowed his head.

    "What''s wrong, Nadal?"

    "No, actually, Mr. Lukrov, but ..."

    Nadal stopped wearing his leather sandals and scratched his head, making a rumble.

    "I didn''t know that Chizuru-sama was here ..."

    "? What do you mean?"

    Chizuru''s question made Nadal squeeze his words for a moment, but immediately began to exin, as if he was patient.

    "Actually ... A little while ago, I was leaving the training ground saying that I would pick up Chizuru-sama. You see, lunch ising soon. I told you to call me instead, Mr. Luklov. Was told that he would go by himself ... "

    Chizuru and Arde look at each other quickly.

    That means ... Does Luklov arrives at Chizuru''s empty room by now?

    Chizuru found herself bleeding from her face.....

 Chapter 19

    Dont Leave Me  1

    The impatience of having to return early and the fear of what would be waiting for her when she arrivesbined with her sometimes clumsy legs, but Chizuru desperately ran through the castle while Arde hurriedly chases after her.

    Chizuru stopped only after passing through the hall and running up the stairs and arriving in front of a beautiful door that didnt feel like it was still her room.

    she took a deep breath and ce her hand on her violently pulsing heart.

    Maybe Lukrov is no longer in the room. Seeing that Chizuru wasnt there, he might have given up and went to the cafeteria alone.

    While calming myself down, my instinctined that it was impossible.

    Either way, its not a problem that can be solved by standing in front of my room  After taking a deep breath and taking another deep breath, Chizuru slowly opened the door of the room.

    The feel of the cool copper handle hurts on her fingers.

    Lukrov

    And after all, he was there.

    The tall knight standing in the center of the small room was looking down at Chizuru, who appeared at the entrance of the room, with his empty eyes as if he was possessed. It was an elusive look that wasnt angry or full of joy, unlike the cold gaze Ive had so far.

    Chizuru stepped into the room with a feeling like amb appearing in front of a hungry lion.

    Lukrov does not make slight movements.

    Oh, Im sorry, I didnt know that you woulde to pick me up  I had Arde show me around the castle. If I knew you would be here, I wouldnt go out

    It may not be a wise choice to make excuses poorly.

    However, Lukrov remained silent, and Chizuru had no other way to soften the situation.

    I met Ardes daughter. At the outskirts of the castle, where the kids were gathering. Everyone was cute. Then I went to see the training ground, I thought I might meet. , Nadal came and told me you were here

    At that time, Arde, who was out of breath, finally caught up with the entrance of the room.

    Seeing Lukrov and Chizuru facing each other indoors, I couldnt decide whether to enter or leave, and I was worried.

    Donte in, Arde  Ill call you if you need it.

    It was Lukrovs gloomy voice that answered Ardes silent question. Although the words are directed at Arde, Lukrovs line of sight does not leave Chizuru not even for a moment. He didnt even blink.

    Although he showed some hesitation, the maid quietly closed the door and left the ce after bowing.

    When the door was closed, the room became even more stuffy.

    Lukrov didnt say anything, he just stared at Chizuru with his hollow eyes, like a fatally injured animal.

    Chizuru wished to say something.

    Anything is fine. It doesnt matter if its a swearing word or a cold line, something. Any cruel word shouldnt hurt as much as this silence.

    Im sorry, Lukrov  you told me to take a rest. But I wasnt told not to go out and my body was okay, so

    The voice trembled, and Chizurus legs stepped back on his own.

    Lukrovs eyes shimmered in danger, and when he suddenly stood in front of Chizuru with a quick stride, he caught her face firmly with both hands and approached.

    Dont say anything

    A gritty, low voice was exhaled from Lukrovs lips.

    Me

    A stiff finger wraps around Chizurus neck, painfully exerted force, and bites into the skin. Chizurus breath almost stopped.

    Dont leave !

    Ah

    Chizuru couldnt answer even though she wanted to answer.

    The cold light that made me feel chills down to the bones dwelled in Lukrovs eyes, and her dress was torn off in an instant with a well-trained power that Chizuru could not resist.

    A hand with ws raised like a beast was turned around the back, and the other hand grabbed her chest roughly.

    !

    Suddenly, her chest, which was not ready for anything, was strongly stimted, and Chizuru squeezed and lost her voice. Lukrov added a cruel, relentless and strong caress to Chizurus chest, and when hes limbs trembled and became unable to stand, he threw her roughly onto the bed.

    Chizuru gasped in pain and tried to raise her upper body, but before she could move a centimeter, Lukrovsrge body covered her and wasid down.

    I couldnt even say wait.

    Lukrov closed Chizurus mouth with his lips, and with one hand, quickly pulled out the string that fastened the waist of the dress. Chizurus eyes are opened in amazement. Lukrov tied up Chizurus wrists and wrapped a string around the back of the bed above him. Then, the remaining clothes were shredded further, and Chizuru waspletely naked.

    stop..

    Chizuru begged and trembled with overflowing tears .

    However, Lukrov didnt seem to hear anything. Perhaps he was really crazy  Lukrov, who had taken off the chainmail and swords, was so rough that he embedded himself in Chizuru.

    Its as if you cant breathe unless you do so as soon as a second.

    In addition to the remnants ofst nights actions, Chizurus body was not yet ready, she screamed.

    Many tears ran down her cheeks and her shoulders trembled endlessly.

    Because both of her hands were tied up, everything was left to be done by Lukrov. He clenches his teeth and inserts it violently, distorting his face while oozing water droplets that do not sweat or tear on his skin.

    (Tears ?)

    Despite being in the midst of even cruel treatment, Lukrovs appearance suddenly began to look painful, and Chizurus tears stopped.

    It seemed that he, who was supposed to be the strongest knight, was terribly lonely, full of wounds, and trembling with anxiety alone.

    The longsting act should have been no different from a painful me, physically speaking. However, Lukrovs expression seemed so painful that he even felt as if he was in pain  I felt pain in my chest.

    Because, in a sense, its true.

    Dont leave me without saying anything

    sorry

    As Lukrov approached the climax and mmed himself into Chizuru, Chizuru managed to mutter.

    I dont know if it has reached Lukrovs ears.

    However, his expression became even more sad.

    Im sorry  oh !

    Thest time came, Lukrov held all of Chizuru with his arms, and then it was over.

    Lukrov continued to wrap Chizuru in a painfully strong hug, but there was no way for Chizuru to hug him back , whose hands were tied. Only the violent breathing of each other can be heard, and no sound of the outside world can reach their ears.

    How long has it passed?

    It was certainly a long time.

    Lukrov slowly loosened his hand holding Chizuru, and when he lifted his body slightly, he stared at Chizurus whole body.

    Lukrovs eyes overlooking Chizurus delicate body, lying with his hands tied up, had an overt regret, and I felt sorry for him.

    Im sorry  Lukrov. Im gone without permission

    Chizuru herself wasnt sure if she was talking about today or apologizing for the farewell 14 years ago. Maybe both.

    Lukrov growls about something

    Chizuru

    He called my name.

    Chizuru, oh dammit  kill me, cut my head off and dance on my corpse. You have the right to do so.

    Stop, Lukrov

    I wanted to stroke his hair, but I cant. Chizuru smiled gently. Its a very attractive invitation, but Ive just been able to meet again, but its a waste

    At that time I found out that Lukrov smiled back, though only a little, really only a little.

    ***

 Chapter 20

    Dont Leave Me 2

    Lukrov released Chizurus restraint wrist slowly and carefully so that he felt a little irritated.

    he firmly hugged my body that was about to fall on the bed,id Chizuru with a gentle movement that was too gentle, and put a pillow on my head.

    Does it hurt?

    Immediately after hearing that, Lukrov shook his head with a slight self-deprecation. It must have been painful. Lets call Arde immediately to cleanse your body. If necessary, call a pharmacist

    Wait. Dont call anyone yet. Stay here.

    Chizuru took the plunge and tried to spoil it.

    It may be cowardly, but now I knew that Lukrov would listen to my wishes, so I didnt want to miss the opportunity to be with him.

    Here  next to me. Just a little.

    Lukrov did not answer and looked down at Chizuru with his sincere eyes. After a while, he nodded several times as he had thought, and put sheets on Chizurus body with a polite gesture that would not suit a strong warrior like him. Then heid next to me with one side down, supporting his head with his hands and looking down at his old lover.

    Chizuru also stares back at him.

    The two couldnt easily look away from each other and couldnt speak any nifty words.

    No Maybe I didnt need words.

    Neither an apology nor a confession of love makes any sense in front of the eyes of the two. All of them were transmitted to each others hearts through their souls, without having to bother to voice them.

    After a long and gentle silence, Chizuru gently reached out from the sheets and touched the scars running from Lukrovs forehead to his temples. Its a dry mark that seems to be years old, but it was probably quite deep when it was injured.

    Chizuru carefully stroked the outline.

    Can I ask you about this wound

    Lukrov showed his eyebrows slightly, as if he remembered the existence of the wound only when he was asked. I dont feel ufortable with Chizurus question.

    What do you want to know?

    His voice heard back was calm.

    When did you get injured?

    Four and a half years ago. Shortly before I washed my feet from the hitman family business and became known as the Duke of ice

    It must have hurt.

    Is that what you care about? Havent you heard some of my old rumors?

    Uh, yeah  but

    Chizuru couldnt find a good expression, but he whispered after taking a breath without being impatient. Maybe something happened?

    The ck assassin, the kings minion  Even if only some humans, the sad eyes that were so sad that I couldnt think of a man who was called that way quietly stared at Chizuru.

    The feeling of wanting to know his secret for 14 years, which Chizuru did not know, and the feeling that it might be better not to know it, alternated. And Lukrov also seemed undecided whether to tell her or not.

    However, after a while, Lukrov gradually began to exin.

    I had what I wanted. The King promised to give it to me. I believed it  I had to believe it.

    Chizuru remembered a person called the king of this country.

    That said, Chizuru was allowed to have an audience with him only a few times, and none of them was so long, so I remember it. As far as I can remember, he was a delicate person with thin lines for a man of this era. It didnt seem like a bad guy, but he seemed a little unreliable to take the throne, and was he a few years older than Lukrov?

    But he didnt want to fulfill that promise  or he couldnt do it. I should have known it, but I couldnt admit it, and for ten years his Beingpliant, he did something wrong  threatening his political opponents and sometimes killing them

    Lukrov once cut his words here.

    It seems that Chizurus reaction is being confirmed  Do you think Chizuru would hates Lukrov? If so, he is wrong. Chizuru squinted and shook his head.

    It would have been painful

    I dont know  I didnt feel anything before I knew it.

    No

    Dont tell a lie.

    It seems that the inner voice of Chizuru was properly transmitted to Lukrov. When he finally took his eyes off Chizuru, he quietly continued to confess, gazing at the waves of the sheets.

    Sometimes I traveled outside of the country and was entrusted with a war, I was ordered to get my hands dirty, and I just obeyed it like a clown who was foolish. It wasnt as good as it was for him-the king- because I got many supporters, and was treated as a hero at the time, which threatened the kings presence.

    Lukrovs voice was always in, but Chizuru knew that it wasnt because he didnt feel anything, but because it was too painful to express his suffering.

    By nature, Lukrov is not a person who likes fighting.

    When I had to fight, I just had the courage to stand up without running away, and I didnt enjoy the fight, let alone the murder itself. If possible, Ive always said that I want to live in peace as a lord somewhere in a remote area, just as I do now.

    There was a time when Chizuru was hoping that one day he would be able to live happily beside him.

    14 years ago.

    It wasnt her ce to cry here now. However, it was too difficult to stop the overflowing tears.

    I suffered this wound on myst mission. At that time, I decided that I will not pursue my dreams anymore. I will Forget everything, give up, and live quietly alone.

    Lukrov returned to Chizuru again.

    He also seemed to be trying to stop something overflowing in his eyes. Unbearably, Chizuru raised his squeaking body and gently approached Lukrov. Lukrov hugs Chizurus thin back with his arms and narrows the distance.

    Naked, chest and chest.

    The heart touches the heart.

    Chizuru closed her eyes and lightly kissed Lukrovs cheek. Lukrov did not resist at all.

    What did you want me to do  what was it?

    Chizuru asked thest question while staring at each other with a slight distance away. Lukrov turned his eyes down and opened again, staring at Chizuru with his sad eyes, and answered slowly with a hazy voice.

    Come on  what was it

 Chapter 21

    Dont Leave Me 3

    After that, after spending time quietly staring at each other without saying anything to each other, Lukrov went to call Arde.

    The maid seemed to be waiting in front of a nearby servant, so she immediately appeared and knelt down to take care of Chizuru.

    Collect the remnants of the torn dress and bring the rest of the lunch on the te, a clean cloth simr to a towel and a barrel of steaming hot water.

    Well, I can do it myself

    Chizuru managed to refuse Arde, who was trying to help with the bath.

    Of course, bathing in hot water does not mean that you can soak your neck in hot water like a Japanese bath. The only reason was to moisten the towel with hot water in a barrel and wipe the whole body clean, but that was enough for a tired body for the time being.

    If you wipe your body with a loose towel, your skin wille back to life

    Lu, Lukrov, dont look

    Lukrov, who wore only trousers with his upper body naked, leaned on the chest of drawers and folded his arms in front, and kept on watching Chizurus movements more than necessary.

    It was Lukrov who took off his clothes in the first ce, and although they have already exposed each others bare skin many times, the act of purifying herself seemed strangely personal, and it was embarrassing to see it.

    I like him and hope to get back to a rtionship where I can call him a lover soon. But I have to respect this kind of private life. Chizuru turned hrt back on Lukrov, covered her front with a towel, and stared at him over his shoulder.

    Lukrov shrugged only his shoulders without changing his expression.

    why?

    Anyway! Go over there!

    Im not leaving

    Lukrovs tone was clear. Want some help?

    ~~, no! If Lukrov doesnt go, Ill go somewhere.

    When Chizuru rebelled against the selling word and buying word, Lukrov sighed loudly and disappeared from the door to his room, probably because he got her meaning. His back was like a big bear who missed his prey and was depressed, and Chizuru was blushing and hugging her towel.

    Its cute, isnt it, Lukrov when hes with Chizuru sama

    Arde, the maid who was watching everything, pointed out with a clear face that she was enduring wanting tough.

    Oh, yeah? Its domineering  can I say thats cute?

    Yeah. I even remembered the illusion that I was back 14 years ago. In recent years, Mr. Lukrov was perfect as a ruler, but in his private life  he always looked dead.

    While opening the chest of drawers and looking for clothes and underwear to change for Chizuru, Arde replied that he was sick.

    A dead face .

    Chizuru hurriedly slipped the towel on her skin and thought of Lukrov after reuniting one by one. And letspare his image 14 years ago with that of today.

    Fourteen years ago, when I first met Lukrov, he was always calm and serious, and it was hard to say that he was expressive. It came to be able tomunicate with Chizuru, and he began to show various faces.

    Laughing aloud, shining, making fun of Chizuru with a mischievous smile .

    When a warm and damp towel reached the base of the foot, a tingling pain struck her skin  It was like a branding iron that Lukrov burned on Chizuru while she remembered what he was saying

    Dont leave me without saying anything

    Chizurus hand stopped perfectly.

    Lukrov does he still like me?

    When he spilled like a soliloquy, Arde turned to Chizuru with a surprised face. It looks like she shouted unbelievable.

    Well, what is Chizuru-sama? Im sure my mistress managed to do this morning  Didnt Lukrov-sama say something?

    Lukrov has made it clear that he doesnt like me anymore. Its his duty as a knight to put me here, and hes holding me just to release his desires.

    Actually put into words, that fact hurt Chizurus heart even deeper.

    Arde had her eyebrowspletely turned into a figure eight and kneeled in front of Chizuru, who was stuck in the middle of the bath.

    Did Chizuru believe it?

    Ardes voice pierces Chizurus chest.

    I dont know  I dont know, what can I believe in?

    The cold words from him, the fiery anger he often gets, the room he gave me, the dress that fits perfectly. Everything was so inconsistent that it confused Chizuru to the point of disgusting.

    For whatever reason, I left Lukrov and returned to Japan.

    Even if it wasnt Chizuru who chose 14 years, if he actually made him lonely for such a long time, he is responsible.

    Lets say that what Lukrov asked for after 10 years of losing himself might be Chizuru.

    What is it  I wonder if this is his revenge. Are you happy with me?

    Chizuru sat t on the floor, facing Arde and muttering.

    Arde shook his head with a puzzled face and gently stroked Chizurus shoulder.

    Thats not true. Chizuru-sama, Im sure youre tired. Shall I call back Lukrov-sama?

    Nooo!

    Chizuru screamed like a crappy child. Im angry again. I was tied up and it hurt  no more

    I should have been prepared.

    It hasnt been two days since I arrived at the castle.

    But if the roots are so deep, what can Chizuru do? Do you keep opening your legs to Lukrov forever until you die? Satisfied with his kindness given from time to time, staying as a mistress forever?

    I dont know what to do. No more

    When I noticed, Chizuru was sobbing with his face on Ardes shoulder.

    The body was sluggish and heavy, and I felt chills. My spine trembled.

    Ill catch a cold, Ms. Chizuru. Come on, please wear this, right?

    Hmm

    Arde put the prepared clothes on Chizuru.

    Certainly, you may just be tired. After returning to this world, the tension overflowed at once, and I kneaded like a child.

    This makes me think about the future

    Sorry, Arde. I got Suddenly upset.

    Its okay, Ms. Chizuru. Just keep this in mind..

    The dress this time had a number of buttons on the front, which were rare in this era. Arde keeps it dexterous and continues in a clear tone.

    Lukrov sama never weed a woman home for fourteen years after Chizuru disappeared. It was only one night for fourteen years. Until he weed Chizuru yesterday. it has been forever. Do you know what this means?

    Chizuru sipped her nose and wiped her tears with the back of her hand while listening to Ardes words.

    She probably doesnt know everything. But Im sure she understands Lukrov for thest fourteen years much better than Chizuru, who just reunited with him a few days ago.

    Please give him some time

    Arde, who had finished holding the button, said while tapping gently behind Chizurus shoulder.

    When I raised my face, the clear light blue eyes of Arde were slightly moistened. Chizuru was struck by a painful chest tightening and lost her words.

    Arde

    Lukrov sama must have some time. If youve been in hell for a long time, you wont be able to enjoy it right away if you suddenly go to heaven. For example, if you eat too much right after youre hungry, youll vomit. your body wouldnt ept it. I wonder if the mind is the same.

    Chizuru felt the weight of the years dwelling in Ardes words, and realized that they were getting older, umting wisdom, and bing adults. Chizuru, who was only neen years old and spent a year and two months in peaceful Japan, and those who have survived fourteen years in this rough world.

    Chizuru wasnt old. At least by modern Japanese standards.

    However, Im aplete child here.

    I wasnt thinking enough and soon lost sight of my feet. It shouldnt be like this.

    More  I have to be stronger.

    Now, Im done changing you clothes, and Im calling Lukrov sama. Please talk with him properly  Im sure you can ovee it. I believe in you.

    Chizuru nodded and stood up with the gentle but powerful encouragement of Arde.

    I havent seen the goal yet.

    There may not be such a thing in the first ce. However, I felt that that I can see the light shining in the destination.

 Chapter 22

    The Visitor 1

    However, things doesnt change dramatically in an instant.

    After a few more days, Lukrov gradually began to get used to Chizurus existence, and the number of times he held her roughly decreased little by little. Allowing Chizuru to be able to work in a nursery school for children with Ardes daughter during the day, under the condition that be at the dining room for lunch and to return to the room before the sun sets.

    After a week and two weeks, Lukrov did not change the name of Chizuru as a guest and did not answer Chizurus confession with love.  At least in words.

    It was night that these two people were the only ones who were able to let their souls pass through in the past and without being disturbed by trauma.

    Every night, Lukrov embraced Chizuru in every way. Sometimes its so intense that Chizuru faints, sometimes its frustratingly gentle and very slow.

    There were no words of love there.

    asionally, when Chizuru uttered such words, Lukrov routinely stiffened his face and forcibly blocked it with a kiss or caress so that she could not continue to confess. Lukrov was stubborn, as wild animals injured by humans. it never believes in humans anymore and keep on hiding in the depths of the forest.

    Ha  u

    Lukrov whispered something in her ear with a faint voice while running his finger on the bud of Chizurus shameful part on the bed and pushing Chizuru to the climax for the second time that night.

    What ? What  oh!

    her body that had already been cornered immediately surrendered to the suddenly intense caress of Lukrov.

    Being kidnapped by the waves of pleasure, Chizuru gasped and shook her whole body. Lukrov covered it and stroked Chizurus hair over and over again.

    nothing

    Lukrov lied. I didnt say anything

    Sometimes the two of us were quietly looking at the big moon swaying outside the window.

    The moon has the same color as her original world. (T/N: snowy)

    When Chizuru told him that, Lukrov held Chizuru painfully and did not let her go until morning.

    Because I didnt have a calendar equivalent, Chizuru gradually forgot to calcte the date and time, but roughly speaking, it was one morning about 20 days after I started living in the castle.

    As usual, while having breakfast next to Lukrov, Nadal, who was out of breath with his cheeks dyed red with excitement, rushed over.

    Lukrov, the messenger of the Duke of Loan is now at the gate!

    In the hands of a brown-haired boy, paper like material made by drying animal skins is wrapped around with A red ribbon on it, indicating that it was a letter from someone high in status.

    Look, look!

    Nadal opened a letter in front of Lukrov, raising his voice to the extent that even others during the meal raised his face.

    Lukrov stopped eating and took a quick look at the letters.

    Chizuru involuntarily looked into it.

    Thanks to the automatic trantion of the example, Chizuru can read most of the characters. The literature was difficult, but the letter was fairly concise and short. The contents are as follows.

    Lukrov

    I heard rumors. Ill arrive there within three days, so prepare a room for four knights, including myself.

    Loan

    Loan ? That loan, right?

    While saying so, Lukrov mmed Chizurus back, which coughed with a piece of bread she was eating in her throat.

    Id say its different, but oh, that loan. How did you hear that?

    Lukrov replied sullenly, but his eyes didnt always seem to dislike it. Oh, thats Lukrov and the loan.

    Lukrov was given water  wine is still banned   Chizuru, who was breathtaking, raised his face and smiled.

    It was true that he stille every year. Can I meet him too?

    Hesing see you.

    Lukrov struck the letter back to Nadal with a disgusting gesture. Nadal hurriedly receives it and asks, What should I do with your reply?

    The style of the letter did not seem to be waiting for a reply one by one, but unlike modern times, a living human being is driving a horse with news from a distance so I have to say something in return.

    Lukrov waved to drive Nadal away.

    Give the messenger a return meal and water. Anyway, he wille even if I didnt write back

    Is it okay to say that Mr. Lukrov wees the Duke of Loan?

    do what you want

    When I heard that, Nadal was as excited as when he ran up and left quickly.

    Lukrov sighed briefly and returned his gaze to Chizuru  and sighed again, shaking his head from side to side.

    I will tell you that hes already married and He has some kids.

    Is that so?

    Lukrov throws a sharp gaze as if to add amandment to Chizuru, whose eyes shine with the expectation of seeing a nostalgic face. Chizuru became funny and giggled.

    I dont think he really liked me. he Always made fun of you back then.

    Chizuru pointed out, however, Lukrov snorted.

    At that time  Chizuru smiled again, remembering this 14 years ago.

    Loan and Lukrov were men who were in the same order, but hadpletely opposite personalities, fighting styles, and ways of thinking. With fiery redheads, a talkative and friendly loan, contrary to Lukrov, who had risen from a position close to an orphan, he is the son of a wealthy duke, and the only point of contact between the two men is their height.

    On the surface, Lukrov always hated Loan, and Loan was making fun of saying that Lukrov was an inflexible and straightforward thing. However, both of them respected each other from the bottom of their hearts  This kind of rtionship may be a mysterious thing that only men can have.

    Because of that, Loan was always ying around with the rtionship between Lukrov and Chizuru.

    Chizuru pretended to be anxious and irritated Lukrov, or conversely tried to force the two who were unrequited love together. Now its a cute memory.

    she heard that she can meet that loan again.

    I see. Its going to be lively.

    When Chizuru smiled, Lukrov squinted coldly and said heavily.

    Im sure its going to be noisy when that manes

 Chapter 23

    The Visitor 2

    Although I wasining, the preparation for weing the Roan started by Lukrov was quite borate.

    Of course, we are weing a duke-ss person to the castle, so we cant help but do nothing at all. A mortgage room and a room for the knights who would be attending were prepared, the castle was cleaned up more than usual, and a wee party was nned.

    It wasnt just a dinner party, but people were invited from the castle town, and a stall-like thing was spread out in the za, which is usually used as a training ground, to hold a kind of festival-like night.

    There are many aristocrats and knights in the capital who do more shy things. Mr. Lukrov is modest. There are more events like this because he can deepen exchanges with the townspeople and have an economic effect. Its okay.

    Was the exnation of Arde.

    She also seems to be excited about the liveliness before the festival, and she is busy moving around with her cheeks burning more than usual. Thats why the reaction of the children Chizuru was taking care of was beyond imagination. Every child is overjoyed when they enjoy baked sweets, sweet candy-like sweets, smoked meat and fish, and the songs and music of the bard.

    Chizuru herself was no exception, and was excited by the reunion with the nostalgic knight Roan and the expectations for the uing banquet night.

    There was only one person, Lukrov, who sometimes had aplicated face and looked at some distance  I was worried about that.

    Two dayster .

    A blue g fringed with gold can be seen proudly fluttering beyond the horizon, and the newest lord of the Dukes family, who is said to have continued for five generations, the glittering knights led by Roan gradually appear.

    Its the Duke of Roan!

    One of the sentries guarding the castle gate screamed loudly.

    Lukrov on a horse wearing armor nodded while looking at the four knights approaching To wee the guests,. While Chizuru was setting In front of his chest, and looks into the distance in the same way.

    It was a bit of a surprise that Lukrov apanied Chizuru to wee this Roan.

    No matter how much the other person is an old friend, she will wee a guest with this status, so she thought that she would wait in the castle or maybe until the night of the feast, considering the other knights were there as well.

    It was unbelievable that she would ride the same horse as Lukrov and wee the guests in front of the gate like this.

    Moreover, it was Lukrov himself who instructed it, and Chizuru didnt even have a chance to refuse. If I tried to hide you it will just be more annoying, he said, saying that if you show Chizuru to him first, Roan will be satisfied and leave quickly.

    (But )

    Chizuru, who was dressed up a little more carefully than usual by Ardes hands, she couldnt calm her beating heart while setting in Lukrovs arms.

    (Coming here together to wee me, you look like a married couple ?)

    Although it was after a long trip, the march of the Roans was quick.

    It would have taken less than five minutes from the time the g began to appear to the time it reached the castle gate. Lukrov took the horse a few steps forward, and Roan also stepped forward, a short distance ahead from the apanying knights.

    Because he didnt wear a scarf, the reddish-brown hair, which was as bright as a new brick, was swaying in the wind vividly.

    Contrary to Lukrov, who seems to be a little thinner than he was fourteen years ago, Roan seemed to have some plump dignity-but his slightly exaggerated presence is always curious. The brown eyes that seem to shine in my heart are almost the same.

    Roan was staring at Chizuru with wide open eyes.

    Why  this is again  what a hell, really chizuru ?

    Chizuruughed at Roan that made a crazy voice and felt like hugging him. However, thinking that it would be in front of the other knights, I waited for the castle owner, Lukrov, to say something first.

    Lukrov holds Chizurus waist tightly with one hand and advances the horse a few steps further.

    Roan, wee you to our castle again this year. Stay as long as you like.

    Lukrov said the polite and ceremonial greeting with a great deal of self-control  This is my guest, Chizuru. Well, I dont need to introduce you.

    Originally, I would have to give a reply that the Roan would be paired here, but the red-haired knight seemed to have no intention of doing so.

    Guest ? Whats going on, isnt my cute Chizuru look the same as she used to be

    Chizuru couldnt prevent her face from copsing as seriously as possible, and after ncing up at Lukrov behind her, she smiled meaningfully to Roan.

    Roan shook his head over and over again, looking at Lukrov on the top of the Buddha and Chizuru smiling alternately.

    What a hell  what a hell!

    For Roan, who repeatedly shouted the same line like a parrot with no head, Lukrov threw a cold gaze and put it inside, and so on, leaning toward the castle gate.

    Oh shit, yeah, shit  Ill get you to exin. Ill get you to exin

    After the Roan that was mumbling and being alone, the knights of the same group advanced the horse and passed through the castle gate. The group led by Lukrov went straight to the main tower of the castle, where they got off their horses.

    Chizuru!

    At the entrance of the castle mansion, Chizuru, who was helped by Lukrov to get off the horse, was approached by Roan that had been dismounted from the horse. It wasnt fully equipped, but it was noisy step by step because he was wearing armor on the shoulders and chest. Lukrov can walk quietly in this style, but he doesnt really care about Roans.

    Show me your face  I cant believe it! Isnt it really Chizuru

    Roan did not say hello to Lukrov and headed straight for Chizuru. Rather than ignoring the castle owner on purpose, it feels like I havent really seen it.

    Roans hand wearing leather gloves extends to Chizurus face.

    Chizuru didnt run away, but she didnt move from the side of Lukrov.

    I was wondering who she was because he said he started to be surround by a woman  What a hell, this guy really waited until Chizuru appeared.

    Roan was always quick and he spoke so quickly that he didnt give him time to reply.

    Wee back Chizuru. Im d to see you again. I wouldnt get married in this case.

    Im home  Roan, its been a while

    Why did youe back to such a stiff man? After 14 years, he became even stiffer?

    Thats not the case. Roan arent the same at all.

    Thats a big deal. Come on, go inside and talk to me. Oh.

    Roan pretended to be surprised when he finally noticed Lukrov standing next to Chizuru without hiding his face.

    Oh, were you here too! Ill be taking care of you for a few days from today. Im not going to stay long. I will just talk a little  and I wanted to see your woman.

    Youve already seen her

    Lukrov replied with a disgusted voice.

    The Roan grinned back.

    Oh, I was able to see her well.

    With that said, Roan turned his eyes back to Chizuru and smiled gently.

    Well, Lukrov, I dont like to praise a man, much less if youre the other person  but this time Ill praise you. Well done.

    Lukrov did not answer.

    Simply silently returned and walk towards the castle door. The remaining time of the trip Chizuru and Roan looked at each other.

    Is there something?

    Roan looked into Chizurus face as if it were a confirmation rather than a question.

    Chizuru tried not to look sad as much as possible, but I dont know how sessful he was. Roan nodded several times as if he had seen through everything, and struck Chizurus shoulder.

    Lets hear the storyter. Put it in now  Im tired from the long journey.

 Chapter 24

    The Visitor 3

    When everyone entered the castle and to the hall, wine and nice warm meals were served to the guests who were tired of their long trips, and then each of them was assigned a guest room and disappeared upstairs.

    The knights and servants of the main castle came and greeted the guests repeatedly, so the hall was lively and Chizuru had almost no chance to talk with Roan anymore.

    Today, Roan went to have a rest in his room until the evening, and in the evening, an intimate dinner with Lukrov was held  and a weing party was nned for tomorrow afternoon.

    sigh

    While the rush to wee guests continued in the castle, Chizuru, who had been left unattended, had returned to her room alone.

    if she were to wander too much, she would only increase Ardes work, and Lukrov and Roan had disappeared before she knew it, so she couldnt do this.

    Chizuru sat alone on the edge of the bed, sighed deeply several times, and after a while rolled on the sheets.

    When she brought her face close to the sheets that were heavily woven and beautifully embroidered, a faintly sweet scent rises. This is the scent of Lukrov  No, to be more precise, the scent of the proof that Lukrov and Chizuru are ovepping their bodies overflows here and there and tickles the nasal cavity.

    In the end, Lukrov did not change the introduction of Chizuru as a guest even for Roan.

    I wasnt expecting anything.

    The appearance of an old friend did not mean that Lukrov would suddenly change his attitude. However, when I witnessed Lukrovs stubborn decision again, my heart heart hurt.

    Every night, continuously hees and asks for my body, and I only answers him with love.

    Sometimes it wasnt just gentle at night, Chizuru had to pant and cry and beg him to stop. Even that wasnt always heard, and there were nights when I was embraced violently until I fainted.

    A night when you were stared at by your eyes in agony and sadness, and strongly embraced by his angry arms.

    I wanted to think that one day he would open up not only his body but also his heart.

    As Arde said, this would take time

    By thinking so, Chizuru managed to support her heart that was about to break from time to time. It wasnt until I was told that I was spoiled, but despite my repeated determinations, the anxiety of being in a maze with no visible exit cannot be erased forever.

    But maybe, if I can spend a few days with a nostalgic Roan, my heart might feel a little clearer.

    While holding such a faint expectation, Chizuru was invited to a deep sleep before she knew it.

    And when the door of the room opened and someone came in, Chizuru didnt notice immediately.

    Arge shadow slowly approached the bed silently, and an elongated shadow oveid Chizuru. Chizuru woke up feeling the presence of a person only when the wooden frame of the bed made a dry noise.

    Hmm  al  de

    Chizuru, who had just opened her eyes and noticed the surroundings had begun to dim before she knew it, and raised her upper body loosely.

    Its vague, but I feel like I was dreaming.

    A dream 14 years ago. Lukrov, who smiled happily, gently whispered words of love to Chizurus ear, and the two yed on the meadow  Such a distant and ephemeral dream.

    Already  dinner time ?

    Chizuru asked the maid while rubbing her eyes, but there was no reply that would normallye back immediately.

    Instead, low and irregr breathing arrived through the air, and Chizuru sensed the incident and woke up. Arge, tall shadow is just around the corner. As I took a deep breath and squinted, I saw the outline of Lukrov reflected in the purple sunset leaking through the window.

    Lukrov ? Whats wrong? Isnt time fir your meal with Roan?

    Lukrov did not answer.

    However, only the rough and low breathing like a wild dog who is wary of the enemy can be heard leaking from his throat.

    Chizuru was ready, and didt run away.

    Lukrov

    When Chizuru whispered his name again, as a signal, Lukrov slowly stepped forward and approached with one knee on the edge of the bed.

    What are you doing?

    The continuation of the words was sealed in a soft kiss

    A polite kiss, just like the first time, where the tips of their lips touched each other. Lukrov repeated a simr light kiss on Chizurus lips several times for a while.

    Arge, stiff hand was attached to Chizurus cheek, and although it was not necessary, the other hand gently supported her arm.

    Ha , oh

    The body ustomed to the pleasure given to him reacts to the kiss, the feel of the touching skin, and the boiling masculine scent, and gradually bes hot.

    Chizuru also slowly touched Lukrovs cheek. And Chizuru returned a slight kiss from her as evidence that she was ready to ept him.

    Then,

    Stop

    I heard his low growl.

    Chizuru solidified and stared at Lukrovs face unintentionally. Only the remnants of the setting sun shining weakly through the window have a light source, and half of his face is hidden in the darkness and cannot be seen. But I quickly realized that his expression was full of bitterness, even if only half of it.

    Luk

    Stop it

    When he muttered again with a voice that seemed to be squeezed out by force, Lukrov left Chizuru on the bed.

    Then, I went back a few steps, and after repeating uneasy breathing several times, I turned my back to Chizuru and turned my heels back.

    Lukrov, wait, that

    Despite Chizurus call, Lukrov went out to escape when he opened the door, and closed the door behind him. The sound of walking away with a quick stride echoed  Immediately, I couldnt hear anything.

    Chizuru, who was left alone in the darkness and silence, had no choice but to sit in a daze.

    What was this now?

    From the current rtionship between the two of them , a sudden refusal to an incredibly gentle kiss. What does this mean ?

 Chapter 25

    The Longest Night 1

    After having dinner as usual in the dining room without Lukrov and having a brief greeting with the three knights that Roan brought with him, Chizuru returned to her room again.

    Arde brought hot water and towels to cleanse me in the room again, but I decided to have Arde go down early tonight with the intention of just taking a quick bath alone.

    Then, when I was alone and calmed down early, I tried to wash my face by putting my hand in the water bucket ced on the desk

    Suddenly, from the lower floor, a loud sound of something copsing vigorously echoed.

    Chizuru was surprised and stopped and looked around to see what had happened. Moreover, the noise didnt stop, but it continues violently with Gassshan, Dottttan, and so on. It was a terrible fuss, as if someone had messed up the furniture and furnishings and turned them over, causing chaos.

    After a while, even a few screams could be heard.

    (What ?)

    When I hurriedly wiped my hands with the towel I had, I left the room and looked around to the left and right. I met a female servant who was going back and forth in the corridor, so I called her out and stopped.

    What happened now? I suddenly heard a great sound from below

    Wow, I dont know. However, it seems that it was heard from the room where Lukrov sama was having dinner with the guest

    From Lukrov and Roans room?

    Chizuru immediately stiffened.

    Lukrov and Roan

    I remember that they had a fight with each other and messed up all over the ce several times. Certainly, Roan broke his nose once. Its a fresh memory for Chizuru, less than two years ago, but here its almost fifteen years ago. Both of them are already good old adults, not the bloody young people of those days.

    However, it is Lukrov and the Roan.

    Please tell me where the room is

    When Chizuru asked, the confused servant quickly exined, Turn right under the stairs on the first floor and its the third room.

    Chizuru just thanked her and rushed down the stairs.

    I found the room immediately.

    There were many servants with anxious faces in a row, and they were going back and forth in front of the door. As Chizuru approaches, Nadal is there and immediately calls out to her.

    Chizuru-sama! Actually, Lukrov-sama and the Duke of Roan are in a fight inside.

    Again?

    Chizuru was surprised.

    Nadal didnt seem to notice the nuance, so he exined with an exaggerated gesture while making a crying face.

    The dining table was turned over, and the food is scattered all over the ce, it was already a mess when I came out, Mr. Lukrov shouted like a beast and kicked us out. Fortunately, the two of them didnt have any weapons, but

    But if they were eating, they would you have a knife?

    Thats right! What should I do?

    The boys eyes have tears of anxiety.

    The two of them should know how to kill humans with their bare hands, even if they dont have weapons or knives, but now its nofort to say that. Should I go to call the powerful young knights? However, most of them finished their meal already and returned to their respective rooms.

    Chizuru had no choice but to decide on the spot.

    I will go in  If anything happens, call Arde right away.

    Eh, Chi, Chizuru-sama?

    Fortunately, or scarily, it seemed that the room was already quiet. Chizuru took a deep breath, tied her lips, gathered courage and touched the door. While Nadal is watching over with a sigh.

    When the door opened with a squeaking noise, it was true that everywhere inside was messed up, apletely dirty room. Well, it makes me want to admire it so thoroughly.

    Roan that held his nose near the wall.

    On the opposite wall, there stood Lukrov, who was out of breath and slightly curled up.

    Roan  Lukrov

    The two men looked up at the same time and saw the entrance to the room where Chizuru was standing.

    Roan immediately shined his eyes, while Lukrov immediately stiffened his body to the point where he felt the urge to be surprised.

    Maybe Chizuru could have been hurt by Lukrovs reaction .

    However, in reality, I felt that Lukrovs deep heartache was hurtful, and I just overflowed with sympathy and affection for him.

    Look, Chizuru, this guy hit my nose again. Damn  can you believe it? This guy bes a madman as soon as ites to Chizuru.

    Roanined while shaking his head.

    In other words, did they have a fight over Chizuru? Actually, it was far beyond the wording fight, but well, Chizuru learned long ago that the fist X fist seems to be counted as one of the words between these two people.

    Are you okay, Roan?

    Although I heard it, Chizurus line of sight remained straight toward Lukrov and did not move.

    No, its no good. Im about to die. Chizuru, can you take care of me?

    The tragic tone of the Roan has a humorous sound at the same time.

    Chizuru smiled and answered the Roan But his gaze remained on Lukrov.

    No, Im sure your wife will get angry, and there must be a much better pharmacist in the castle than I am.

    Oh, how ruthless to a lonely man who was torn in love. Lets say Im withdrawing like this.

    While holding his nose, Roan jumped over the wreckage of chairs, desks, and dishes scattered on the floor with his long legs, and came to the doorway where Chizuru was and looked down at me, and when I looked back at Lukrov, I sternly browed.

    Its not just you and Chizuru. Neither Zain nor Edina will be rewarded if you keep up like this. If you dont decide quickly, Ill do what I want.

    Yes, after saying something like advice to Lukrov, Roan disappeared into the corridor with a stride. After that, several servants rush to chase after.

    ?

    Suddenly, the names of the two nostalgic people suddenly appeared, and Chizuru worriedly shook his head.

    It s not rewarding  it s like they re no longer in the world . The ominous premonition makes my heart beat.

    But

    Lukrov, are you okay? Are you injured?

    Still, Chizuru wanted to calm the important man in front of her.

    Chizuru, who managed to cross over the cobbled floor, which was extremely confused, and managed to reach the front of Lukrov, stopped there. Lukrov stares at Chizuru with a face that is a mixture of various emotions.

    Anger, regret, sadness, and what  should I call it thirst? Just as a thirsty creature seeks water, he stares down at Chizuru with his eyes eagerly seeking his opponent.

    As far as I could see, Lukrov didnt seem to be seriously injured.

    his beautiful ck hair was covered with some food, and there were only a few small scratches running in his big hands peeking through the long-sleeved tunic.

    Going back to the room? Or should I call someone?

    Lukrov shook his head.

    Should I be there? Or do you want to be alone ?

    Lukrov shook his head again.

    When Chizuru was relieved and smiled slightly, Lukrov frowned painfully. But it didnt seem to reject her.

    hey

    If Lukrov once suffered because of his feelings for Chizuru, Chizuru is willing to be hurt because of this love.

    Lets take a rest. Come with me

    Chizuru whispered while she gently touched Lukrovs big hand, and firmly held on both sides.

    This time Lukrov did not shake his head.

 Chapter 26

    The Longest Night 2

    Lukrov and Chizuru were holding hands and watching as the servants came out of the room, which looked like a battlefield. I felt curiosity, admiration, and longing eyes pouring down from here and there, but Chizuru wasnt embarrassed.

    Lukrov follows Chizuru quietly with heavy steps like a warrior who admitted defeat.

    Because of that, it may be more surprising.

    Actually, Chizuru did almost nothing  Lukrov, who obediently walked one step behind Chizurus lead, probably looked strange to the residents of this castle. Even for Chizuru, this was the first time.

    When the two of us went up the stairs and arrived in front of the room, Chizuru was wondering for a moment whether she should invite Lukrov to her room or enter his room directly.

    I remembered that I was suddenly rejected after receiving a kiss earlier, and I thought that if I sent Lukrov to his room, Chizuru might have to return to her room.

    However, Lukrov watched over Chizuru who is confused in front of the two adjacent doors.

    I like your room

    he muttered softly.

    Too masculine, low-vibrating voice.

    The core of the body was aching, and Chizurus nape hair stood up.

    Although not very much, I couldnt feel like refusing, I nodded and pushed the door of my room to enter. Looking back over my shoulder, Lukrov quietly enters. And I closed the door behind.

    Since only one candle was lit, Chizuru hurriedly transferred the fire to several other candles prepared in other candlesticks. The room will be a little brighter and you will be able to see the dirt on Lukrovs hair and clothes.

    Fortunately, the barrel of hot water and towels that Arde had prepared are still sitting on the desk which was still steaming.

    Looking back at Lukrov again, he seemed to be watching Chizurus every move and thinking about the same thing.

    First, I have to clean the dirt. should I do it myself!?

    Lukrov silently shook his head to Chizuru, who heard that while pointing at the barrel filled with hot water.

    Do you hate hot water?

    No  cant you do it yourself.

    Chizuru immediately returned a calm face without noticing Lukrovs true intentions.

    Lukrov didnt break his serious face, and after striking his eyes meaningfully several times, he whispers softly with the usual low voice.

    If you dont help me, I cant do it. I dont want to do anything.

    !

    This time I understood immediately.

    Chizuru instantly imagined the scene and immediately turned bright red and made her mouth flutter.

    Although it was after countlessyers of body, the act seemed strangely glossy again, and the heart screamed unnaturally. In most cases, the act of love between the two was in the form of Lukrov taking the initiative, which is extra.

    Moreover, helping with bathing  especially for warriors like Lukrov  should be something that can only be asked by someone who haspletely forgiven their hearts.

    I  is it okay ?

    Lukrov silently nodded to Chizuru, who asked with a quivering voice. Such a reaction was also strangely fresh. Lukrov was always a person who expressed his intentions clearly with yes and no, and he was not swept away by Chizurus proposal.

    But now.

    Lukrov was standing silently looking down at Chizuru, so Chizuru had to take action before the hot water cooled down.

    Then  I have to take off my clothes first

    Fortunately, tonights Lukrov doesnt wearplicated chainmail, swords, or armor. A long-sleeved tunic with solemn embroidery and a red obi-style cloth around the waist.

    Chizuru looked up at Lukrov as if to say something, but he just sucked his chin slightly as if to say please. In other words  I would leave it Chizuru to undress me.

    Chizuru slowly reached for Lukrovs obi tie while her cheeks get more flushed.

    The cloth tied beside the waist was untied, and when the knot broke, I had to put my hands around his waist to take it. Slowly unravel the double and triple obi. It was an action that could only be done while sticking tightly in front of his chest.

    I got it

    When the obi was removed, Chizuru was uttering something that seemed unnecessary to say one by one.

    Lukrov nods again slightly.

    There was no sign of him making the next move.

    Then  next time  take off the tunic

    This is the same as a shirt without buttons, and it cannot be taken off without his help. Considering the height difference between the two, it was necessary to have Lukrov to move a little.

    Chizuru stretched out her arms and grabbed the hem of the tunic, which extends to her thighs, from both ends. her hand trembled slightly.

    Ill take it off, so look down a little over here.

    Surprisingly, Lukrov hung his head ording to Chizurus instructions. Their faces get closer to each other so that they can feel each others breath, and the strong chest te gets closer to Chizurus body.

    The scent of Lukrov wrapped around Chizuru.

    It was no wonder if the two bodies melted into one as it was.

    Chizuru took a breath and slowly pulled up the tunic. Lukrov bent his back toward Chizuru as he moved, and the tunic slipped through his back and slipped off smoothly. his trained back muscles are exposed, with some scratches.

    Lukrovs body was perfect as a warrior so that she might fall in love with it.

    For example, it was as beautiful as a Greek sculpture. I dont see many sculptures in this world, but if Michel Angelo saw Lukrov, he would definitely want to model it.

    However, his body is not just a lump of stone or bronze.

    The hot blood pulsates, vigorously moves, and sometimes  gently embraces to Chizuru.

    Whats on your hair  is it a fish?

    The white fish and its skin-like fragments were buried in the short cut ck hair, so Chizuru removed it by hand. It alsoes with an oily sauce, which youll have to wash with hot water.

    Lukrov, whose upper body was naked and only his pants underneath, did not move at all as if he had left everything to Chizuru.

    Chizuru nces at the lower body of arge knight.

    For the time being, it seemed that I dont have to take it off yet.

    (Well, what is yet? Already )

    While embarrassed that a devious idea crossed her mind, Chizuru pulled Lukrovs hand and led him to the front of the hot water tub. He followed her obediently. Chizuru hurriedly dragged the chair in the corner of the room and put it behind Lukrov.

    Sit down. I have to wash your hair and face.

    Lukrov sat in a chair.

    It was a delicate chair for women, so when Lukrov sits down, the shoulder width protrudes greatly from the backrest, and it seems that it is not veryfortable to sit on. Chizuru thought it was funny and gave a faintugh.

    Then, Lukrov raises one eyebrow.

    Why do youugh?

    Because  this chair makes it difficult for you to sit down. Did you make a mistake in choosing the furniture? I wish I had arger chair.

    For what?

    For your big body

    I ask you one, did you sit in this chair?

    ? Yes, of course. There is only one monopod in this room.

    Howfortable is it?

    Im d, because its just like my petite womens chair, right?

    Thats it

    Lukrov answered monotonously. Then I didnt make a mistake in choosing furniture.

    It took a few seconds to notice the meaning of the statement.

    In other words, this chair was originally chosen for Chizuru  or at least for a woman who looks as tall as Chizuru.

    Lukrov

    Wash my hair

    Lukrov, who left his back on the back of a small chair, closed his eyes gently. The long, dark, jet-ckshes that wereid down looked good on the deeply carved features, and were so beautiful that I wanted to stare at them forever.

    However, the hot water will get cold if I waited. There is no water heater here, as in Japan, where you only have to press one switch. Chizuru scolded herself, soaked the towel in hot water and squeezed it.

    Chizuru first cleaned the area that was dirty with fish, then returned the towel to hot water, squeezed it, and slowly wiped the other part of his head.

    And soak the towel in hot water again, this time wipe the face.

    Cheeks, nose, chin  And when it was the turn of the forehead, Chizuru stopped moving, reaching a deep scar that reached the end of the eyebrows.

    It was a wound that was inflicted by thestmand from the king.

    Was this amount of wound really the only thing left by the tragedy that Lukrov gave up everything?

    I dont think so.

    Chizuru knows Lukrov. might even knew too much.

    When you got this wound

    While gently touching the scar with her fingertips, Chizuru chose a word and continued asking with caution. What did Roan said about Zain and Edina  are they connected?

    Lukrov slowly opened his eyes.

    I wasnt surprised at all, and I was calm and staring straight ahead, as if I was waiting for Chizuru to ask this question. Lukrovs eyes wandered in the air for a while as if he was watching a video of his past memories, but then he gently focused on Chizuru and stopped.

    Oh

    Lukrov replied. He even smiled sadly.

    Do you want to hear?

    Chizuru knew well that it would be a painful conversation that would surely scratch her soul. If you dont ask, your heart may remain peaceful.

    But this is surely a wall that two people have to ovee together.

    Chizuru touched Lukrovs cheeks with her hand, brought her forehead to his forehead, and quietly nodded.

 Chapter 27

    The Longest Night 3

    A thin crescent moon was floating low outside the window, and it was a quiet and a clear night with no clouds or wind.

    Chizuru once again wetted the towel and squeezed it before the hot water cooled, and wiped the neck of Lukrov. Lukrov closes his eyes again and silently leaves himself to Chizurus movements. Chizuru looked deeply at his Adams apple moving up and down as he breathed.

    And when Chizuru turned behind Lukrov and tried to slide the towel over his wide back, he opened his eyes slightly  quietly and began to speak.

    Zain and Edina have been with me many times since you disappeared  We didnt have and like this, unlike Roan, who immediately inherited the territory.

    Chizuru thought of two knights.

    Zain and Edina.

    Zain was a tall blonde knight, with clear light blue eyes and dark blonde hair like a clear spring sky, and was as strong as a pictured prince. He has a gentle personality with a strong sense of justice, and is just like the knight of over the white horse that girls dreamed of.

    And Edina .

    She was a female knight with beautiful blonde hair that was as light as a m and sway in the wind.

    A gentle and open-minded woman who had both strength and grace, it was nothing but a longing for Chizuru. Edina also loved Chizuru, who suddenly fell from a different world and didnt know the right or left, and the two were sisters. I think she was about the same age as Lukrov.

    And the most notable thing was that Edina and Zain loved each other deeply.

    Both of them were orphans who grew up in the same orphanage, and they supported and encouraged each other from an early age, and naturally they loved each other as if they were breathing.

    When I saw the two of them snuggling up to each other, no matter how cold they were, I couldnt help admiring their love.

    It was the two of them who calmed me down after you disappeared  First of all, they suggested that I ask the King and his prophet to search for you. Thats why he may have felt responsible forever. For ten years

    Lukrovs back was stiff, Chizuru stopped her hand and listened to his words.

    After all, what Lukrov had been looking for Chizurus whereabouts for ten years, even after doing something wrong, he never stopped.

    With heavy feeling of responsibility, sadness, and unscrupulousness, a slight joy was mixed up and approached my heart.

    Lukrov continued with a low voice.

    Its been ten years  Can you believe it? I wish they had just abandoned the madness like me  And yet, the two of them followed along with thatst mission

    Ten years.

    He kept looking for Chizuru.

    Abandoning dreams, honor, youth, and even other opportunities for love, he continued to seek Chizuru, who he spent only one year together.

    At that time, Chizuru vowed that she would not stop loving him even if Lukrov would not return love to Chizuru for the rest of his life until his death. Even if all he wants from Chizuru is her body, thats fine. As long as Lukrov needs me, I will respond to it in any form

    They are supposed to have been killed in action. I reported that and the church epted it.

    After all, the two are

    Chizuru became irresistible, and when she dropped the towel on the floor, she turned her hands and hugged Lukrovs shoulders tightly from behind. Instead of refusing to hug him, Lukrov gently approached Chizurus cheeks and squeezed her hand tied in front of her neck with one hand.

    The truth is different. Only Edina was killed in action. It was because of me who tried to stay in spite of the disadvantage of the war situation

    Lukrovs voice was quivering slightly.

    she was stabbed by the enemys sword in the heart and died on the spot. In front of me and Zain.

    Perhaps he remembered the memory of those days, Lukrov held his mouth for a while and stared at the empty wall.

    Edina was kind.

    she was like an older sister who encouraged Chizuru over and over again.

    For Lukrov and  let alone Zain, her disappearance would have been a pain equivalent to stripping her soul. Chizuru couldnt stop the tears from spilling, and crouched at Lukrovs neck.

    Zain and I survived, but for Zain, life, etc., would have been meaningless the moment he lost Edina. He knelt in front of Edinas corpse and kept silent. He then took the sword, and stabbed myself in the same ce where Edina received the sword and ended up.

    Lukrov closed his eyes and told him to spit out while holding Chizurus hand even harder.

    I hugged them and buried them. There was nothing like a tombstone, so I stood only a sword and a helmet. It was night. At that time, I lost everything  my heart, my dreams, my dreams of my love too. I gave up everything.

    The heart that thinks of Chizuru.

    A dream of reuniting with Chizuru.

    Also love for Chizuru.

    everything.

    everything.

    Naturally. Lukrov epted Chizuru, who suddenly returned four yearster, in any form. It was no wonder that such a woman was cut off or abandoned because he didnt want to see her face anymore.

    Nevertheless, he still epts Chizurus hug in this way.

    Im sorry  Lukrov. Im sorry

    Lukrov opened his eyes slightly to Chizurus voice trembling in tears.

    Chizuru

    Lukrov whispered to Chizurus ear. Do you know what was the worst in this hell?

    Chizuru shook his head.

    The worst thing was that I didnt die  I didnt know where you were. If I was told that you were dead, I would be as clean as Zain and would die but I didnt know where you are . Maybe youre living somewhere in this world and looking for me.  I couldnt die.

    the tears overflew endlessly, Chizuru had closed her eyes while clinging to tightly Lukrov.

    This is it.

    This is it.

    Dont cry

    Lukrovs voice echoed in my ears. However, although I couldnt see it because I closed my eyes, Im sure Lukrov was crying too.

    The two were hugging each other tightly and standing without saying anything further.

    After a while, Lukrov silently carried Chizuru to the bed, where the two slowly piled up. From the hair to the tips of the nails, there would have been no ce in Chizurus body that did not receive Lukrovs lips.

    It was Lukrov who fell asleep first before the morning came.

    Thank you

    Chizuru gently muttered in a small voice, gently approaching Lukrovs sleeping face with a tired shadow.

    Thank you for Finding me. Thank you for being alive. Thank you

 Chapter 28

    Loves Fools Festive 1

    The next morning, Chizuru woke up with a faint sound of someone moving around in the room.

    It is immediately clear from the window that the sun is already shining brightly and it seems that a considerable amount of time has passed since sunrise. I shook my vague head because of my low blood pressure, slowly raised my upper body and looked around, and there was Arde, who was wiping the floor.

    good morning Chizuru. Did I wake up?

    Arde raised her face from the floor and greeted lively.

    no, its okay. Good morning Arde  how long have you been here?

    not so long ago. Im sorry. You must have been tired, Lukrov sama told me to let me sleep as much as you want.

    Lukrov did?

    Yes

    Arde stood up from the floor and smiled at Chizuru while squeezing a cloth like a rag into the apron belt. Ive already heard rumors aboutst night from all over the ce! It seems that Chizuru-sama was able to calm down Lukrov-sama and the Duke of Roan in a blink of an eye

    Chizuru sank her face into the sheets and groaned briefly.

    Why are rumors so exaggerated and widespread in this world? Moreover, judging from Ardes story, it seems that breakfast time has already passed. Even though it was a long night, I overslept in the morning.

    Of course, Lukrov was no longer there.

    Lukrov is already outside. Im busy today because the Duke of Roans wee party will start in the evening. Ive given you some remarks because its unclear when well meet.

    Chizuru raised her face from the sheets and shook her head toward the maid who did not break her meaningful smile.

    What?

    First of all  its a feast, many stores are gathered in the training ground square. Lukrov sama said tha Chizuru-sama could buy as many things as she want. Its wonderful!

    No matter how much ? Hmm

    Having trouble answering, Chizuru mumbled her words.

    I dont know what kind of store will be opened, but even now, Im pretty reluctant to spend Lukrovs gold as I like. Chizuru isnt a spender in the first ce, and now that shes heard Lukrovs confession, I dont think its okay to obey his favor anymore.

    Well, if you buy something at a small food stall, youre already taken care of both sleeping and eating, so isnt there a big difference?

    Okay. Did he say anything else?

    Yes. First of all, dont drink alcohol even if offered.

    After the sun goes down, the music and dance will start. I was told you to dress you up properly to go out with Lukrov.

    Ardes eyes are shining happily. As the night gets deeper, people be more and more rude. There are many people who talk to young girls who are interested in it. Im sure Lukrov is worried about it.

    Lukrov is worried ?

    I wonder if he is.

    After their night, Chizuru was still not sure how the rtionship between the two of them had changed. Lukrovs trauma is so deep that the more she tries to look into the bottom, the less she knows how to fill the gap between them. Maybe time really heals everything, or maybe it doesnt.

    The current Chizuru could only wait.

 Chapter 29

    Chizuru stretched out her arm

    hmm  does it mean to be modest to look eptable? Or does it mean to be stylish?

    I think its thetter. Of course, you may not be very pleased with the dress that tempts other lords, but  leave it to me! There should be few unworn dresses here, We will also tie your hair.

    Certainly, I wanted to wear a simple dress that was not very noticeable, the chest of drawers has many luxuriously designed dresses that had not been worn yet and been sleep within the drawers. Some of them are noble dresses, as they are only allowed to be worn by the castle owners wife.

    Although I was reluctant to wear it every day, there were some clothes I wanted to wear if it was a festival.

    Have your hair tied and dress up

    I dont think we can break through the current situation with this, but even so, there was a faint expectation that something might change a little.

    Well then, I will be in your care?

    Of course!

    Arde was delighted by pping her hands. Maybe its because of the lively atmosphere before the festival, and Arde has always wanted to dress up Chizuru. Until now, Chizuru had refused it, but tonight.

    It might be okay to try hard tonight.

    After spending time caring for the children until noon as usual, Chizuru returned to the room after lunch and took a rest to prepare for the long feast night.

    I searched for Roan and Lukrov in the cafeteria, but neither of them appeared. I heard from Nadal that they were taking the main knights together to hunt for prey for the feast.

    (Medieval  amazing )

    Preparations for the party are steadily progressing in the castle.

    The normally closed gate was opened, and merchants and tradesmen who loaded horses were entering the garden inside the walls one after another. A number of tents have begun to be set up, and tree branches for burning fire are piled up here and there, and everyone is busy walking around with excitement.

    Chizuru remembered the original world a little while looking at the situation vaguely.

    The day before the school festival in high school. At work, just before a big event. All of them have different shapes, but the atmosphere of peoples excitement was very simr. Obviously, the men did not go hunting for animals for the grill, but the process of going shopping and setting up a booth was just like that, and it was kind of strange.

    (Something should change )

    Suddenly, I was sentimental when I remembered Mai who supported Lukrov, and Chizuru looked up at the sky through the window and swallowed tears that were about to overflow.

    At that time, the door of the room suddenly opened, and Arde, who praised the smile of the sky, came in.

    A beautiful pink ribbon held in her hand.

    I was really worried about which color to use, but Im sure this will suit you best.

    In the pocket of Ardes apron, there were other small bottles of rose water that was used instead of perfume,bs and makeup tools. There are even tools that Chizuru doesnt know how to use. When I was summoned herest time, I didnt have much time to pay attention to makeup in the adventure after the adventure.

    Chizuru smiled.

    Even if you get so tense, you may be disappointed because the material is me.

    What are you talking about, Chizuru-sama. There is no material that shines as much as you, you just need to polish it. Leave it to me, Ill take you to Lukrov-sama. Come on, sit down.

    Last night, Chizuru was presented with the chair on which Lukrov was sitting, and Chizuru sat quietly there with a slight hesitation.

    It made me feel tickled when I realized that it was perfect for me.

 Chapter 30

    After losing Zain and Edina, Lukrov said he had given up on all of Chizuru.

    However, the room that was prepared in this way, clothes, Chair, And Arde

    Maybe he still had Chizuru live in the corner of his heart, Sank by the waves of giving up and despair, quietly in a ce like the bottom of the sea, somewhere deep and dark.

    Arde began to speak in a fascinating tone while carefullybing Chizurus hair.

    I was shocked when I heard that Mr. Lukrov and the Duke of Roan were in a fightst night, but I was happy. Its like Im back 14 years ago.

    happy?

    Yes, Ive said it a few times, but since I set up a castle in this territory about four years ago, Mr. Lukrov wasnt really energetic. Of course, the lords job was done perfectly. However, it was as if he was a ghost without a soul just silently performing his mission. Because of that, some people called him the Duke of ice, have you heard that ?

    Yeah  I heard it once.

    Certainly, Rodolgo, the man I first met when I returned to this world, said that.

    Arde sighs briefly and continues while dexterously changing the direction ofbing.

    The new servants and knights who have begun to serve from this castle seem to think that is Lukrov-sama usual, but I know. Lukrov-sama who was having fun ying with Chizuru-sama. . Lukrov-sama when he had a big quarrel with the Duke of Roan in a fight with Chizuru-sama. Maybe thats why Im happy

    The bright voice of Arde began to tremble slightly.

    When Chizuru looked back over her shoulder, the light blue eyes of the maid had tears floating in her eyes with a smile. Oh, Im sure it wasnt just Zain and Edina who supported Lukrov.

    Thank you, Arde

    Naturally, such words overflowed in Chizurus mouth. Arde shook her head.

    I couldnt do anything, Chizuru-sama, but Chizuru-sama

    Yup

    Its too sad that one person has been lost for such a long time, I hope he can return to his original happy appearance.

    Yup

    Chizuru turned to the front and closed her eyes quietly.

    And remembered the smiling Lukrov in my memory.

    When Iughed, the hard chin line copsed a little, and a dent simr to a dimple was formed in the mouth . If he smiles now, hell probably have some wrinkles on the corners of his eyes and look even more gentle.

    I want to see him like that again someday.

    Someday .. soon..

 Chapter 31

    An hourter

    Chizuru touched the folds of the skirt, the skirt was light pink and withyered whitece fabric.

    The color and shape were neat, and their was a small opening neck that shows a bit of her chest, and it was made of the finest cloth that a noble would get. Mirrors are still valuable in this world, and although there was no mirror in Chizurus roomrge enough to capture her whole figure, Arde held a small hand mirror for her.

    When she looked into it, you can see a very beautiful woman.

    It looked like I wasnt myself.

    Im sure you will be the hot topic of the castle tonight. No, it wont be just the castle but the whole territory. Id like to show you off to Mr. Lukrov soon.

    Arde nodded satisfactorily many times, checking Chizurus hair with intricately woven ribbons from all angles.

    Chizurus ck hair, which she usually kept down, was gracefully tied up behind her ears tonight, exposing her nape boldly. It emphasizes Chizurus femininity in harmony with the wide-open neck of the dress.

    Do you think he will like it?

    I didnt say who. I didnt have to say it.

    To be honest, I think no matter how you look and what you wear, Chizuru sama is the only one that Lukrov sama will love and grant his favor to. Its also a good idea to let him understand that on his own

    It may be a bit overkill to think of it as a n, but Chizuru hoped that this will be a catalyst for improving the rtionship between them.

    looking through the window the darkness had already begun to spread in the sky.

    From a distance, she could hear lively voices and noises of a drums Is it time?

    Shall we go?

    Arde herself who said that is also dressed up a little tonight. Chizuru nodded and the two left the room.

    Chizuru went out and thought that it was a good night for each of these festivals.

    There was no wind and the night sky were clear and not cold, but there was a cool breeze.

    The open space, which is usually a training ground, was filled with campfires and bonfires, illuminating the darkness. Some people seemed to be drunk early on, some were mming together and making a fuss, while others were moring to sell things in the tents they had set up.

    The scent of roasted meat, the scent of yummy sweets, and the scent of wine are spreading around.

    Children were running loudly around, the performer ying variety of instrument between the ukulele and the guitar, which Chizuru saw for the first time her. Ardes daughter Noah is also there, and when she found her mother, she jumped with the lightness of a baby goat.

    Mom! Wow, Chizuru-sama, you look very pretty!

    If you look closely, Noah also decorated a part of her hair with a ribbon which she does not usually do.

    Thank you, Noah. You are beautiful too. The ribbon looks great.

    Ehehe

    Noah blushed happily as she turned around in front of Arde and Chizuru. But Chizuru sama looks like a real princess and is more beautiful. If you line up with Lukrov, youre a king and a princess.

    The child innocently said so, and this time she clung to her mothers hand and begged.

    There are candy sold over there. There are red and yellow ones. Can you buy it for me mom?

    In the direction Noah pointed her finger, there was a tent selling sweets with something like a candy stick on the tip of a stick. I dont know the value of small items because I havent shopped outside yet, but it may be expensive because its hard to find in a regr meal. Sure enough, Arde was hesitant.

    Chizuru came up with a good idea and smiled gently.

    Ill buy you, Noah. Lets go.

    oh, Chizuru-sama!

    Really, Chizuru-sama? Im happy!

    Mother Arde and daughter Noah screamed at the same time. Chizuru winked lightly to Arde, who is shrugging with a sense of confusion.

    Its not me who pays, but Lukrov? Its okay, Im sure he wont object.

    And Chizuru bought and gave each candy to Noah and the children of the other servants who were ying around. All the young faces glowed with joy, and while making the area around their mouths sticky, they thank Chizuru and return to the run.

    Lukrov-sama told you to buy what Chizuru-sama likes, right?

    Arde said in a ming tone, but her expression looked happy and she seemed to praise Chizurus actions.

    its okay, Thats what I wanted.

    Chizuru replied, remembering the smiles of the children, It was my true intention.

    Looking around, it seemed that there were other free meals besides the stall tent, so Chizuru wasnt willing to spend any more Lukrovs money for herself.

 Chapter 32

    Chizuru couldnt find Lukrov because there were so many people gathering, but when she walked around for a while, there was a red-haired knight who she could see his head in the crowd. she found him Surrounded by men and women of all ages, holding a bottle of wine in one hand and talks about something with exaggerated gestures.

    Im sure he exaggerated what happenedst night and told people about it. he was a talkative chaos, without exaggeration, but it was a Roan.

    Arde, its okay to go back to Noah. Ill will stay with the Roan.

    Well, is that so ? But

    Chizuru properly understood that Arde was still thinking about her young daughter and husband and was inwardly fidgeting. With the Roan, no other dangers wille near her, aside from Roan himself.

    Its okay because there are so many people. Dont worry, enjoy it with your family.

    I wanted to talk to Roan for the first time in a long time, and since Chizuru said so Arde could return to her family. Arde, hesitated for a while but bowed with gratitude, and disappeared into the crowd.

    After seeing it, Chizuru joined the crowd surrounding Roan and waited for him to notice.

    Of course, he noticed Chizuru in just a few seconds.

    Chizuru! Oh, isnt it Chizuru! She had the heros appearancest night!

    The Roan immediately approached with a stride while squeezing through the crowd. Every move that is unnecessarily loud looks strangely graceful when you get to Roan, even though it should look crude. Chizuru was unintentionallyid back.

    Youre the one who made that weird rumor, Roan.

    Oh, what are you talking about?

    I killed the quarrel between you two in an instant, thats what it is. Is your nose okay?

    Oh, it didnt seem to break after all. It was true that once it broke, it wouldnt break again. But lets say the rumor is a misunderstanding. I was in the dining room for breakfast, By the time he went out, everyone was already talking about that.

    Was it so?

    Then, was it Nadal?

    It seems that the child has the talent to talk about things in a funny and exaggerated way. Chizuru had no choice but to shrug. Then, Roan bends down slightly and looked into Chizuru.

    Chizuru, I knew you were cute, but its the first time Ive seen such a beautiful figure. Well, are you in love with me?

    Chizuruughed with a loud voice.

    Thank you. Tell your wife that.

    Lets do that, I might be decapitated. Have you met Lukrov yet?

    no, still  Do you know where he is? Arde told me to go out with him by the time the dance starts

    That man has a head of a stone, he can only see things in ck and white, although the world is full of so many colors.

    Chizuru looked up at the red-haired knight who suddenly turned into a poet, tilting his head.

    Its a symbolic phrase, but I feel like I can understand what he means. It may be undeniable that Lukrovs steadfastness and sincerity sometimes have such a stubbornness that cuts everything with or without it. And  for Lukrov, the current Chizuru is probably still in the none category.

    Dont me him, Roan. Originally, Im the one who did something bad

    Chizuru

    Roan suddenly changed to a new tone and turned to Chizuru. Both of you should stop being trapped in the mistakes of the past, who was responsible for this, and that was your responsibility. Neither Zain nor Edina want that. . You guys have a future. Thats fine.

    But

    Well, Im not a long-suffering man, and believe it or not, I really love the both of you Chizuru. Lukrov is a close friend who Im willing to offer him my life.

    Chizuru smiled with tears at the words of the Roan, which was sincere and clear.

    We too, Roan

    Its the duty of the surviving man to be happy. If that guy doesnt change his attitude forever, I have an idea.

 Chapter 33

    Roan suddenly pulled Chizurus hand and began to move forward in the crowd.

    I was surprised at first, but from the flow of the story, I thought that Rone was trying to guide me to Lukrov, so I quietly followed his step.

    However, it wasnt Lukrov who was at the destination.

    Hey, Baru, I brought a woman here!

    A knight who stood with his back while staring at the bonfire raised his face to the loud shout of the Roan and looked back.

    He was a young knight with brown hair and a not-so-tall but rock-like body. Chizuru was familiar to him. he was one of the knights that Rone brought with him, who greeted her at the cafeteria yesterday,he is a few years older than Chizuru.

    Roan? Ah, that

    Just as Chizuru began to be confused, the young knight called Baru also had a fool look on his face as if a pigeon had eaten a peashooter.*TL:wait..what?*

    Duke Roan, youre kidding again

    No, Baru, youve beenpletely fascinated by Chizuru since yesterday. My eyes cannot be deceived. And its clear that Chizuru isnt the woman of Lukrov. There is an opportunity. Please bring your bride with you back to the territory. Good luck!

    When he shouted so, Roan left Chizuru on the spot and disappeared into the crowd again to escape.

    Everything was sudden like a spring storm, and Chizuru and Baru were just stunned and could only see the back of roan, which disappeared quickly.

    It was a quiet corner with few tents to sell.

    The bonfire burned as tall as Chizuru and crackled, illuminating the darkness in orange. Other than that, it is less popr area and had a calm atmosphere.

    The knight called Baru was staring at Chizuru with a face that as if he couldnt believe yet.

    Chizuru opened her mouth with a smile, hoping to soften the situation.

    That  dont worry about what Roan said, because it seems to be some kind of a misunderstanding

    The young knight, Baru, was not so beautiful, but he had brown eyes that one can drown in, with depth and calm for his age. His eyes were so serious that he seemed to be confused, and Chizuru was a little confused about where to look.

    I thought you were the fiance of Duke Lukrov.

    What, no way

    Chizuru shook his head in a hurry when suddenly pointed out. Im not that kind of a person. Of course I like Lukrov, but there are many things to it.

    Baru frowned as if he couldnt understand it.

    There was no need to exin everything one by one, and Chizuru herself didnt know how to get along with him in the first ce, but she didnt want to make a strange misunderstanding, so Chizuru added.

    I like Lukrov. Dont worry about what Roan said.

    Fortunately, it seems that Baru wasnt the kind of person who snooped innocently. When he nods obediently, he looks around and sighs a little.

    Then, it seems better to stay away from here. If you can see yourself alone in such a less popr ce, you could be misunderstood.

    Eh? Yeah

    Chizuru also ran her eyes around him in the same way and understood Barus argument.

    During the festival, there were only a men and women of the same age in an unpopr corner . No matter how unreal it may be, it can only be seen a secret meeting ce, away from the eyes of curios people .

    Come here. Lets find the Duke Lukrov together.

    Baru was respectful and took a step ahead of Chizuru in a hurry. He seems to be a mirror-like person of a knight, and after touching Chizurus waist, which was chasing after him in a hurry, for a moment, he immediately let go. The two started walking together, just a short distance away.

    However.

    Cha!

    Baru who was in front suddenly stopped, and Chizuru collided with his back from his face.

    Whats wrong

    When I looked up at the young knights face while holding down his nose, he was unnaturally looking straight ahead and stiffening his body.

    Curiously, Chizuru also follows Barus looking direction.

    There was Lukrov, wearing a beautiful navy blue tunicyered on top of an armor, giving off a dignity that makes it look like a king or a lion, while staring at Baru in a terrifying manner.

    Chizuru took a breath

    she was caught on spot

 Chapter 34

    Loves Fools Festive 3

    Lukrov stood alone in a ce away the crowd making a face of a warrior in front of a damn enemy.

    Although he didnt wear his war armor, Lukrov, who has a solemn appearance suitable for a lord, looking powerful just by standing, With the addition of angry ck eyes, no fierce man will try to approach him.

    Lukrov

    Chizuru whispered his name and tried to leave Baru and move forward. At that time, she felt that Lukrovs harsh expression had eased just a little  but that was only for a moment.

    You still have to wait here

    Suddenly, Baru sticks out one hand to the side and blocks Chizurus way.

    He may be misunderstanding something, Let me exin first.

    And slowly stepped forward.

    Chizuru was blocked on the way to go and stopped, and Lukrov immediately returned to his original harsh expression. However, Baru didnt flinch and kept walking toward Lukrov.

    Chizuru got anxious

    It is wonderful that Baru has courage of the youth

    It seems to be the right thing to do as a knight to exin in advance to Lukrov, who may be in a bad mood due to some misunderstanding seeing her with another man

    However, the other party is Lucrov. Im sure Baru doesnt know that but there is a reason why he was called a knight of fiery mes.

    When angry, Lukrov can be so ruthless and violent that even the devil doesnt want to approach him. Like a me that burns everything that approaches. Once swallowed, there is no choice but to return as ashes.

    No, uh, wait, Mr. Baru

    Chizuru hurriedly ran after Baru

    Lukrov is not just standing up, he is approaching us at the same slow pace as Baru. The two knights immediately faced each other head-on.

    It was Baru who bowed his head respectfully first.

    Duke Lukrov, dont get me wrong.

    When Chizuru, who was out of breath due to a sudden run, arrived just behind Baru, the two men were already facing each other at a distance that they could grab each other.

    Roan seems to have had some misunderstanding, but I have no intention of dealing with a woman who is devoting herself to another man. What brought her here with me is just because

    Baru looked back at Chizuru for a moment. I couldnt leave such a beautiful woman alone when she might face some danger. Can you understand?

    Lukrov did not answer.

    Despite being red at by the ferocious eyes that seemed to attack at any moment, Baru stiffened his shoulders and stayed. Chizuru couldnt figure out how to cut it out, she had no choice but to look at the two knights alternately.

    Eventually, Lukrov muttered slowly, emphasizing each word, with a disturbing voice crawling on the ground.

    A good man is the one who keep danger away from reaching their daughter

    I know

    Then you may go right now. Ill talk to that about the Roan.

    As you say, Duke Lukrov. But please understand that she made no fault. Its all Roans..

    When Baru raised his face and added that, it seemed that the tail of Lukrovs patience bag broke with noise.

    Im telling you to go, this crazy demon!

    A thunder-like angry sound was heard, and as expected, Baru got a chill on his spine and then dissipated in the original direction. However, when he left, he nced at Chizuru and turned his face to look sorry. Chizuru reflexively shook her head and told him that he didnt have to worry about it.

    Yes, Baru hold no responsibility more than Chizuru.

    Even so, its too pity to be reprimanded and shameful. Youll have toin about the Roanter.

    However, it was unknown what Lukrov was thinking.

    Chizuru is well aware that his emotions can sometimes be as dark as a deep, deep valley with an invisible bottom. When he loves someone, anger, jealousy, and sometimes anxiety, just as there is no limit to their depth, he can be deeply blinded sometimes.

 Chapter 35

    Chizuru stared at Lukrov standing

    Lukrov, on the other hand, looked down at Chizuru with his cold eyes.

    His masculine jaw was as hard as the beast who wanted to eat Chizuru from his head and bones as soon as possible. And maybe, if he gets serious, theres nothing he cant do.

    Maybe Chizuru wouldnt resist either.

    youve already found another man, or its not a big deal.

    Chizuru opened her eyes for a moment because she couldnt understand what he was saying.

    If you dress up like that, you know that many men will gather like bees seeking nectar. its good the you got yourself one, are you nning on going out here with that man? he looks just right.

    Luk..rov

    I knew without looking in the mirror that my body temperature dropped all at once and felt the blood leaving my face.

    The cold voice and dialogue of a loved one will hurt Chizurus heart very easily and felt a sharp pain that cuts deep into her skin. the beautiful tied hair that Arde had prepared for me now made me feel sad, as if it was a dirty thing that suddenly appeared.

    When Chizuru clouded her face, Lukrov approached her in a stride and pulled her waist tightly with her big hand.

    For that face

    Lukrovs voice was low and rough. I waged war. Because of that body, I give up my honor and life, and to gain your heart

    While taking a breath, Chizuru waited for Lukrovs next words. A neat face is distorted, and a sad shadow casts on the jet-ck eyes.

    I wandered through hell. Cant I have you for myself alone?

    Further force is applied to the hand holding the waist, and the waist of the dress is strongly pressed against the hem of the chainmail. It was painful.

    Even if you exin that it is a misunderstanding or that the Roan has just forcibly set up a mischief, it will not ease the current Lukrov. I just wanted Lukrov to look at me, but I didnt like him getting angry like this.

    Im sorry  like this

    It was painful to think that Ardes efforts would be nullified, but Chizuru tried to remove the makeup by rubbing it with the back of her hand. I dont know if it was sessful. However, Lukrovs expression bes even darker, and Chizurus eyes are filled with tears.

    Lukrov grabbed Chizurus arm, which was still trying to rub her face with her hands.

    Stop

    Let go!

    Stop, Chizuru

    I hate it! Its okay, its dirty! I dont need it at all!

    Chizuru struggled to untie her hair by raising her arm. Brilliant dresses, make-up faces, and beautifully trimmed hair.

    Everything that I wanted was to improve the rtionship between the two of us.

    It wasnt for Lukrov to get angry and shout like this .

    Chizuru struggled hard in Lukrovs arms, but only reaffirmed that she couldntpete with his strength. Sad and sorry for Arde, Roan and others, and even more tears filled her eyes.

    I dont like it ! I just thought that Lukrov might like it  I just did it , lets go of me!

    Although I raised my voice, the ending trembled mercilessly.

    However, as soon as that happened, Lukrov held Chizuru tightly against his chest, preventing her from moving any further.

    Under the moonlight she was so close that she could feel the hot body of Lukrov, and she was hugged strongly and hard. In pain, Chizuru buried her face in Lukrovs chest and cried.

    After a while, Lukrov patted Chizurus head and whispered to her ear, making a calming voice.

    Dont cry, Chizuru. I was bad  I was just frustrated Seeing you with another man.

    It was a gentle, slightly weak voice of Lukrov.

    Chizuru stopped crying, stopped moving in Lukrovs chest and listened to his heartbeat. To-kun, To-kun, To-kun. A heartbeat that deviates like a child who bes anxious in the face of a storm.

    Dont cry  Youre beautiful. youre too beautiful and I got worried. Its like a dream  I thought youre likely to be stolen by another man.

    Chizuru gently raised her face.

    There was Lukrovs face in the immediate vicinity, and it was a distance where the lips seemed to ovep with each other just by stretching a few centimetres.

    Lukrov

    I was bad, Chizuru, please forgive me

    Maybe this guy is really a devil after all

    While thinking so, Chizuru made a small hup and nodded.

    There was no choice but to nod.

    For him, I would give forgiveness even thousands of times I knew somewhere in my heart that Im madly in love with him

 Chapter 36

    Loves Fools Festive  4

    Lukrov hugged Chizuru tightly again, kissing her earlobe and then slowly crawl down her lips, and finally sticking to her neckline thats peeking through the cor of the dress.

    Hmm

    Chizuru shoulder trembled with the pain as if she being stabbed by a needle.

    Lukrov gave a simr stimulus to Chizurus corbone, and he turned away with some satisfaction. Then, he runs his callused fingers on Chizurus skin, which he left a mark on, and raises the edge of his mouth slightly. Its hard to call it a smile, but it certainly looks a little closer to it.

    Chizurus body waspletely on fire, and her breath rose and her feet started shaking. If it hadnt been supported by Lukrovs arms, she might not have been able to stand.

    I cant confirm it because its not a ce I can see by myself, but Im sure that what Lukrov left on my skin is a kiss mark

    Chizuru is his. Its like branding a piece of iron.

    The cor of her dress was boldly open, so it must be a much clearer appearance as the women of the lord than a mere oral deration.

    With a mix of embarrassment and joy, Chizuru looked up at Lukrov with a reddish face.

    Lukrov also looked down on Chizuru with a calm expression that is different from the previous one.

    Its been a while since Ive seen your hair up.

    Lukrov whispered with deep emotion. It looks good  but I dont like you showing it to other guys.

    So thats why you make two kiss marks?

    Lukrov snortedughingly when he touched my neck with his hand, which still had sweet pain sensation.

    made two? No, I only left two. Im going to sprinkle more whenever I see guys looking at you tonight, Ill increase it each time believe me.

    Half was threatening, and half was Lukrovs tone as if he was just kidding. Of course, Chizuru would be happy to ept such a threat. More than that, this kind of exchange warmed Chizurus heart, even giving her the illusion of returning to her lover.

    Dont worry, Im yours. Earlier it was just Roan.

    No matter what you think, there are many men who lose themselves in front of the woman they are interested in. Its best to be careful.

    Lukrov loosened his arm holding Chizuru and took her one hand instead.

    Did you walk around the training ground? The merchants would have set up several tents.

    Yeah, with Arde. It was lively and interesting.

    The two started walking next to each other.

    There was a desire to leave this festival and stay in a room where no one was there, but Lukrov is the organizer of this party and he cant just leave here, at least until the end of the feast.

 Chapter 37

    Loves Fools Festive 4.5

    Lukrov pulled Chizurus hand and entered the lively festivalmotion; many merchants, tradesmen, and knights greeted him respectfully. Lukrov gave a short but polite greeting to each person, demonstrating splendid lordship.

    Lukrovs hand was always touching somewhere on Chizurus body throughout the greetings, and it was ticklish. His hands were casually circled around her waist  When he had to listen to the merchants stories, he sometimes got bored with it, and his fingertips would start ying with Chizurus hair.

    Chizuru noticed that the skinship sometimes became bolder, mostly when the other person was a young man, and wanted to reassure him, so she secretly whispered when they were alone in a ce with few people,even if you dont do that, its okay because no one here is better than Lukrov.

    Lukrov [slightly] raised his masculine eyebrows, showing he couldnt totally agree with Chizurus words

    Many young people.

    So?

    Im a little too old for you.

    Lukrov, who answered with a sigh, was vaguely looking at the middle of the night sky and the bonfire.

    Chizuru suddenly realized one part of Lukrovs misery and was surprised.

    The sight of the former hero, illuminated by the shimmering bonfire mes, is not that of a fearless young man only 22 years of age, but that of an adult man who knows everything about his life. The age-appropriate, shallow wrinkles were engraved on the outer corners of his eyes, and his hair was beginning to be mixed with a slight amount of white.

    However, Chizuru is indeed almost the same as that time.

    Because I spent a year in a different world the summer of my third year of high school, I could say that Im 20 years old physically, but I was only 19 years old in the Japanese family register. It means that there is a difference of 16 to 17 years from Lukrov. Perhaps such an age difference is considered a rtionship between parent and child in this world

    Of course, she had already noticed such a thing, but Chizuru didnt care.

    But  for Lukrov, that may not have been the case.

    Especially on such a night.

    That young knight, Baru, was probably about 22 years old, about the same age as Lukrov, when he fell in love with Chizuru.

    Lukrov is healthy, strong, has a strong temper, and is always full of power that surpasses others. So, many aspects arent easy to notice.

    There are many delicate parts in his heart. And every time Chizuru finds such a soft and beautiful scale, she falls in love with thisplicated man even more deeply. It was still the same.

    Lukrov

    Chizuru stretched up and ced a gentle kiss on Lukrovs cheek, who was still looking at the mes. Lukrov took a little peek, he didnt even move his neck, but his gaze gently lowered and looked at Chizuru.

    A slight curiosity was dancing in his jet-ck eyes.

    Even if Lukrov is a fifty-year-old uncle, I will be chasing you in the same way I always have.

    Lukrov raised the edge of his mouth with slight self-deprecation.

    I wonder.

    I wish I hade back to you sooner  but thats because I would be able to love you longer, regardless of age.

    And maybe Zain and Edina would also be alive.

    Such words were on the verge of being carelessly spoken, but were swallowed instead

    She doesnt need to say it, both of them are so aware it hurts.

    Lukrov turned his gaze back to the bonfire and stared at the mes that illuminated in the darkness for a while.

    If she was able to take a look into his heart, what kind of emotions would be swirling within?

    Is it fierce like a raging stormy sea, or is it still like a cold water surface in the darkness of despair?

    Either way, Chizuru wanted tofort the him who was standing there alone by standing there next to him.

    I want to think that I still have the right to do so.

 Chapter 38

    Your Position (1)

    Did you buy anything?

    Suddenly, Lukrov asked.

    her thought were interrupted, Chizuru blinked her eyes.

    Yeah  I heard from Arde that you said I could buy as much as I wanted Im sorry, was that okay?

    When Chizuru narrowed her shoulders and looked up at Lukrovs reaction, he looked straight to Chizuru.

    You can buy as much as you want. There are vendors in the area around here who donte every day. Get as many dresses, shoes and jewelry as you like.

    Hmm

    have you bought anything?

    Well, I did shop, I bought food though.

    Food

    Lukrov frowned mysteriously and unpleasantly as if Chizuru had confessed that she had bitten his child three times.

    For some reason, I suddenly feel like Ive done something wrong

    Because there are so many foods that are provided free of charge, do you mean that you should not buy them one by one?

    Im sorry  I just bought little candies  I wonder if it was expensive.

    The wrinkles between Lukrovs eyebrows became deeper, and it seemed that things were a big problem.

    I felt by instinct and experience that I would soon be scolded by him-because of the candy

    Chizuru felt like crying.

    Sure enough, Lukrovs low-pitched voice approached Chizurus ear and whispered softly.

    Chizuru, you dont know your position.

    Im sorry

    Chizuru apologized while making it as small as possible.

    Of course, Lukrov wouldnt forgive her for that. He took Chizurus hand and quickly carried it to his mouth, kissing it with a squeak.

    Kiss?

    Um  Lukrov?

    Lukrov repeated slowly, separating words one by one.

    You dont know your position. There are many merchants and craftsmen who would be disappointed and cry if you didnt buy anything. Im the lord of this castle and you are my

    He stopped talking for some reason

    She is ..?

    Lukrovs.

    Lukrov ?

    Chizuru was blinking her eyes again due to the unexpected development.

    Chizuru waited for the continuation, but Lukrov did not open his mouth easily. He himself had a confused look that felt like he didnt know what he was saying.

    Anyways

    Lukrov cleared his throat.

    You wont in a good position if you only bought ten candies and ended with that. Come and choose something quickly, Prove that Im not that kind of a man.

    What? Yes

    Chizuru was pulled out and nodded, not because she understood the meaning of his words, but because it was not a very arguable atmosphere.

    Lukrov took Chizuru back to the center of the training ground where tents are gathered. Many people looked back at them, their faces are shining red due to the effect of the wine, and greeted them warmly.

    Then, in front of the group of tents put out by the merchant, Lukrov suddenly stopped and looked back at Chizuru.

    By the way, why did you need to buy ten?

    that was

    When she exined that it was given to the children, Lukrov made a face as if he giving up and hit Chizurus forehead with his index finger.

    He may have been going easy with the hit, but it hurts as much as it would if received from a warrior who has been trained in battle. When Chizuru sharpened her lips as if she was upset, Lukrov eyes blinked happily and smiled although it was only a moment  she was able to see the glimmer in hes eyes for a moment.

    I felt like he smiled.

 Chapter 39

    Your position (2)

    The first person to call out was a merchant with a tent lined with colorful fabrics.

    As Lukrov and Chizuru approach, the merchant showed a gentle and warm smile while he thought that one of the Seven Gods of Luck has smiled upon him, and proudly begin to introduce his products. Beautiful cloths of various colors and weaves were wrapped like cloth and disyed neatly.

    How about a color like this for the beautifuldy? With your hair color it will look great.

    This fabric shop owner doesnt seem to be a local, and didnt know anything about Chizuru.

    However, since she is the woman apanied by the castle owner who invited him, he must treat her with respect, but he didnt put any personal feeling within his greeting and didnt eye her for too long, keeping constant eye contact with the lord

    There were some beautiful cloths that caught her eye, but she refrained from saying so, but chose one of the cheapest ones and asked Lukrov for his opinion.

    Lukrov stared at Chizuru and the cloth.

    If you want, buy it too

    It was a calm tone, but not a happy one.

    But you look good in a brighter color. Hey, shop keeper, spread the piece behind you

    Lukrov chose two types of cloth that she originally wanted, but couldnt say because it looked expensive.

    One is a calm crimson color, and the other is a cream-colored fabric that is close to beige, with a flower pattern drawn with gold embroidery. Both are bright colors, but they look like elegant items that are reminiscent of Japanese dyeing.

    Its a wonderful aesthetic eye. I thought it would look good, especially on thedy.

    The merchant smiles satisfactorily, spreading the crimson cloth wide.

    Chizuru, who is still ignorant of the prices here, felt that this was a very expensive purchase. It doesnte with a price tag, and it was disyed on a top shelf higher than other fabrics.

    Seeing Chizuru in confusion, the merchant pulled out the cloth and matched it to Chizurus cor to check the color.

    Knowing the one that will pay, the merchant gives a meaningful look to Lukrov instead of Chizuru, and asked him with a confident and cheerful tone, How about it my lord?

    Lukrov is also oddly satisfied.

    Lets get it. And this and this too.

    Point your finger at it and select a total of about five pieces of fabric

    The merchant was graciously following Lukrovs instructions, like a hungry dog, with a drooling smile.

    Then, should I deliver this to the castle tomorrow?

    yeah, tell the ount manager of the castle. You should get the fee from him.

    alright

    The merchant salutes Lukrov, respectfully while taking off his feathered hat.

    Then turn to Chizuru and smiled brightly at her again.

    Lady, youre really lucky. No, your husband is the lucky one, isnt he? Because he got such a beautiful woman. Hahahaha.

    Chizuru turned bright red

    I was praised that I was beautiful. Is it the fact the he was buying a number of expensive items? And the husband thing

    Lukrov didnt even bother to deny it.

    Next, they went around several tents of local craftsmen who handle pottery, silverware, and ss crafts, and bought some products in their way.

    ording to Lukrovs exnation, these purchases lead to local prosperity, and the decorations that decorate the castle are a kind of investment property of Lukrov, so it is even Chizurus duty to feel free to choose what she thinks fit.

    When I was told that it wasnt for me, but for decorating Lukrovs castle, my view changed, and I was willing to go with some silver tableware, wooden trays with borate work, and gorgeously colored, also, I chose a pottery vase.

    Sure, Chizuru wasnt a spender, but she wasnt too strict with buying new things.

    No matter how much the times and positions changed, shopping was fun as it was. And above all, Lukrov is next to her now. she waspletely enjoying this situation where it would not be strange to think that it was like a date.

 Chapter 40

    Dont letgo (1)

    Lukrov kept staring at Chizuru with a gentle eye, if she screams at savage leather products that make her excited, or making a fuss about rare essories or a coat of pig skin with a head on it.

    It can be said that she felt his stares

    Such a rxing and ecstatic light that dwelled in his eyes.

    However, such a calm and peaceful time ended when he found arge crowd in the corner of the training ground.

    It was almost midnight, but it seems like there is a lot of noise.

    Most of the people gathered in the crowd were men, but some of them were girls and children, all of whom were simrly excited and screaming in a disturbing manner.

    Still, do it!

    Arms, take his arms!

    Damn, I was betting on the blonde!

    I cant forgive you, do more!

    Chizuru was surprised and took a step back. Lukrov frowns as if angry while holding her shoulders.

    What ?

    Chizuru looked up at Lukrov and saw a wrinkle is clearly engraved between Lukrovs eyebrows.

    Its a betting fight  Roan likes them. I told him not to do so much of it.

    Chizuru was a little convinced when she heard that there was a fight, Whether the majority of the crowd are males, or the excited and rough heckler, its just like a boxing match in her world.

    I can imagine that the Roan may be the initiator. If Lukrov says, Dont do it, the red-haired knight would want to do it more.

    Damn, that stupid thing. I just have to check if they were using swords or not.

    Lukrov grunted and turned to a pondering face looking down at Chizuru.  Never leave me. See they are all a bunch of excited cats?

    yes

    Make sure you Dont let go of my hand

    Lukrov reminded here once more.

    There is no reason for Chizuru to refuse. she grabbed Lukrovs hand and began to snuggle up into his arm.

    Maybe some people got excited and spill out the content of their cups. Not only wine, but the smell of alcohol, which seems to be stronger, is spilling over from all around, and Chizuru, who is weak against alcohol, is likely to get drunk just by the smell.

    When they reached the inside of therge circr fence, as Lukrov said, a knight and a young man who seemed to be a knight as well were wrestling with each other.

    Both are barefoot, dressed only in trousers and covered with dust.

    The audiences surrounded them, screaming one after another, ring as if they were the one fighting.

    For the time being, the knights were all naked except for their pants, and they didnt wear any armor, let alone weapons. Hitting each other, grabbing the other hips like sumo wrestling, it feels even more painful than a sword fight.

    When Chizuru looked away from the game, there was Roan sitting in a chair and looking at them in the most prominent part of the crowds circle. His brown eyes happily capture Lukrov and Chizuru.

    That bastard

    Lukrovs finger holding Chizurus hand trembles as if he would strangle Roan at any moment.

    Chizuru looked up at the night sky with a feeling simr to giving up, thinking that the situation is going on a bad route

    The starry sky was shining innocently, as if ridiculing Chizurus worries.

 Chapter 41

    Dont letgo (2)

    Looking at the circle of excited cats, one of the two young knights wrestling in the middle of the crowd was thrown to the ground and let out a muffled growl, then stretched out over the ground with both hands wide open and surrendered.

    When a slender man with a beard, who seems to be a judge, took one hand of the remaining knight and raised it high and dered a victory in a loud voice, the crowd burst into the air. Some were strumming something like a drum.

    Chizuru was surprised and let out a long breathe when the bonfire lit up the winner behind the people started to show up better

    Isnt it the young knight, Baru?

    he was naked with nothing other than his pants and waspletely covered with sand and dust, and some other unidentified dirt, so she didnt notice immediately, but that is definitely him.

    Although he seems to have won the game, he made a difficult face far from joy and has his hand raised by the judge.

    Baru didnt seem to be aware of Lukrov and Chizuru yet, but of course, Lukrov seemed to be aware of Baru even before Chizuru noticed. His grip to Chizurus hand suddenly became stronger.

    Lukrov pulled Chizurus hand as it was, and started walking toward Roan.

    Oh, its the Duke Lukrov and his (guest) Im in a good mood. Its a happy night for the festival.

    Lukrov gazed heavily into Roan, who was cing his arm in front of him while resting on a chair while cing the other on his chin, and gave a deliberate and polite greeting.

    What are you doing here?

    If the other party wasnt Roan, they will be trembling by now

    However, the other party was Roan.

    If youre talking about this fight, I want you to know that I wasnt the one who started it.

    Roan shrugs it off

    I found one of my knights and yours on the verge of pulling out their swords and starting a fight. Well, its difficult for an old man like me to calm hot blooded young man. Rather than fighting for a sword, I proposed a game with bare hands. Then, the audience gathered and starter cing bets without permission

    Certainly, the night is getting deeper, and wine is beginning to turn thick in peoples blood.

    The scenario that Roan said seems realistic. But whatever the motive, Roan would undoubtedly take advantage of the situation and use his strong speech and presence to drive the flow as he wished.

    Stop it now. I dont like this kind of chaos.

    Yes, yes  but theyre all excited, and even if they disband now, the chaos may just spread.

    Roan stood up on purpose with a heavy waist was shown with both hands wide open.

    Finally, if there is a match that will bring out a big game for the finale that the audience will be satisfied with, everyone will be satisfied and will be able to stop it smoothly. Isnt it?

    Roan had a meaningful grin, and when he muttered for example, he shook his chin toward the back of Chizuru and his friends.

    Baru, who had finished the game, was slowly walking toward us while scraping off the dirt that had stuck to his body with his hands.

    Although it is notrge, he has a well-bnced body with wide shoulders, a solid steel-like upper body, and muscles that are probably the result of daily training. Baru suddenly raised his face, and when he noticed Chizurus existence, he stopped.

    Barus eyes were opened in amazement and stared at Chizuru.

    It was a hot gaze that made Chizuru a bit ufortable.

    What will happen next! Isnt there a next match!

    Its a rematch! Its a rematch! The night has just begun!

    One of the people of the crowed who was excited, shouted an encore and swelled hotly. Nevertheless, if Lukrov shouted, the audience, who were just drunk and lively with alcohol and festivals, would have dissipated as if to scatter like spider web.

    However, Baru stared at Chizuru.

    His gaze was long and deep

    Lukrov naturally notices it.

    People want a rematch.

    And they were both knights and men.

    So

    The events that were toe seemed predictable

 Chapter 42

    A fight between men (1)

    Duke Lukrov

    Baru came to the front of Lukrov and bowed his head.

    However, Chizuru somehow understands what kind of flow things are going on. Lukrov looks at the young knight with his chilly, jet-ck eyes, not because he is calm, but only to control his magma-like sizzling passion.

    Roan began his speech with the smoothness of a poet singing and talking, with the two men facing each other silently.

    Before the holy match, status doesnt matter. Men throw away their status and courtesy and shed blood for the holy maiden

    Roan!

    Chizuru was angry and screamed, but it didnt seem to be heard by the audience, and above all, by the ears of Lukrov and Baru.

    A big cheer came out from the audience

    Lukrovs released Chizurus hand.

    Now, this is thest match! The legendary knight who was once known as the hero of the country and the youngest young knight in my territory will fight for a beautiful ck-haired maiden!

    When Roan gave an exaggerated speech, peoples excitement would have reached its climax.

    The sound of drums started to get louder, and some people threw silver coin in the center of the circle, perhaps because they intended to support the match.

    Even so, Baru was not the one who would get swept away with the hype, but also took proper steps like a knight.

    Chizuru had no choice but to stand stunned after losing his words.

    What do you mean?

    What do you mean?

    She wanted to stop them right now if possible, but this is not just a fight, but a match. For the two knights, this does not mean just winning or losing or right or wrong. Its honor. No matter how much the match is yed in the name of Chizuru, once Lukrov receives Barus wish, she has no right to step in

    Its a simple, primitive, world of men.

    Lukrov

    Still, Chizuru was muttering his name with thest sliver of hope.

    Lukrov was trying to move with Baru to the center of the circle, which has already be a stadium, but when he heard Chizurus voice, he turned around. Then, with a leopard-like pace approaching the prey, he slowly returns in front of Chizuru.

    Lukrov

    Chizuru once again muttered with a sad voice.

 Chapter 43

    A fight between men (2)

    The appearance of Lukrov and Baru ring at each other in the middle of the circle and gradually shortening the distance between them was full of tension as if the tiger and leopard were groaning with their fangs exposed.

    The crowd, who was making a loud noise, began to be pushed by the force, and gradually became quieter as time passed.

    Chizuru stood next to Roan and was watching the game with a sigh.

    I think the betting rate for winning and losing is about 50/50. Some people are betting that they will continue until both of them copse.

    While smiling, Roan poked Chizurus shoulder with his folded arm elbow.

    Roan, I have few things to get angry on you.

    Keeping an eye on the Lukrovs, Chizuru said that

    The Roan pretended to be shivering and was said mockingly Oh, scary

    Chizuru sighed to give up and nced up at the red-haired knight.

    Oh, its a mark? Its such a wonderful disy of his intention, meanwhile He still says difficult things, hes really stupid.

    Roan noticed the kiss mark that Lukrov put on, and frowned as if he was really angry.

    Chizuru touched the nape of her neck as if holding onto Lukrovs feelings that is blooming red around her neck, and remembered his expression when he put this mark on her, and his Obvious craving

    And if that wasnt love, Chizuru didnt care about the definition of that word anymore.

    I think Lukrov is fighting  the Memories, the present, and the future

    Thats right. At least he got something worth fighting for now. Thats a big step forward.

    Please dont bully Lukrov anymore. He can give a proper answer by himself. It may be tomorrow or a yearter, but he will for sure.

    Roan shrugged his shoulders and looked at Lukrov, who was sharply ring in the center of the circle.

    With eyes mixed with love and irritation, like an older brother watching over his younger brother.

    His answer has been around for 14 years, Chizuru.

    Chizuru also returned her eyes to Lukrov and others, just like Roan.

    The two knights are slowly but surely starting to get closer and closer. A bit different from thepetition using the sword, the vivid force overflowed from the two bodies.

    For some reason, Chizuru was confident that Lukrov would win.

    It was because he dered that, and because she knew his strength. Shes not underestimating the strength and youthfulness of Baru, but it wasnt an unbeatable battle if Lukrov became serious.

    When they approached in a distance, they can reach each other, it was Baru who attacked first. It was a snake-quick move, but Lukrov easily dodged it. The quiet crowd screamed and began to make noise again.

    Ill be killed if I say it, but Ill tell you one good thing in revenge forst night. Chizuru.

    good thing?

    Yes, its the secret of Lukrov that only I know.

    Baru tried to grab him again, but Lukrov evaded it just before he even can, holding one of Barus arms in the gap and knocking him down to the ground.

    There was a noise and raising dust.

    If you were an untrained opponent, this alone would have already set the game. However, Baru got up immediately and took his posture back.

    The Cheers started raising, and cheering and swearing echo in the darkness of the night at the same time.

    Barus eyes became steep and burning, and he stared at his opponent, Lukrov.

    At first nce, Lukrovs eyes seem to be cold and calm, but he must be more heated than Baru

    Suddenly, it seemed that Baru had told Lukrov something.

    The contents cannot be heard from the ce where Chizuru stands. However, Lukrovs expression became terrible in an instant, and he stared at Baru with an intense look.

    The next blow seemed to be both steps taken at the same time.

    Lukrov and I have always been rivals, both now and in the past. Although we are friends, but weve never showed the other party our weaknesses, however, 14 years ago Lukrov came and bowed his head to me asking for something ..

    Her sight was still fixed at the match of Lukrov and Baru, but Chizuru listened carefully to what Roan was saying.

    There is also the possibility that Roan is just teasing.

    However, Chizuru didnt ignore him because his tone was strange.

 Chapter 44

    A fight between men (3)

    In the center of the circle that was surrounded by the crowd, Lukrov and Baru tightened each others shoulders and clenched their teeth. The blood and flesh of the two trained knights,peting head-on for their insteps, were illuminated by the bonfires of the dark night, giving the illusion of looking into the world of ancient mythology.

    In our world, there is a tradition of sending a ring when a man finds a woman who identify her as a person to swear loving for a lifetime, however, rings are extremely expensive, Especially If you trying to make something good. At that time, Lukrov didnt have the money, unlike me, who had his fathers title and territory, so he asked me if I could help him with that

    Wha

    Chizuru opened her eyes wide and looked up at the Roan beside her.

    Roans had a calmness in him that made her feel as if he was looking into the memories of the past rather than watching the game. He raised the edge of his mouth and listens to Chizuru as if he were revealing a special secret.

    I want to show you Lukrovs face at that time. Is there a simr custom in your world? He was desperate back then

    Thats  yes, but

    Is it a wedding ring or an engagement ring?

    Certainly, at that time, she might have taught Lukrov about that. She thought it was one of the casual conversations between lovers, when he asked how to court in her world, she answered that

    !

    Perhaps it had a deeper meaning than just a casual conversation?

    Even without a ring, Lukrov at that time swore genuine love to Chizuru.

    The two never talked about marriage and engagement, but they still talked about their future dreams together.

    Chizuru was thinking about the future with Lukrov.

    The only thing that shook her heart was her only family, her grandmother Kazuyo, who had already a weak heart at that time weakened her confidence that time, she was serious until she nodded to the voice she heard on that fateful day.

    The voice of the audience rose enthusiastically again, and Chizuru was released from her thoughts and concentrated on the game again.

    Baru is doing his best. It would not be an exaggeration to say that he is the number one knight in the territory, as Roan said. However, in war situation, Lukrov was clearly superior. Suffice it to say, Baru may be more powerful, but Lukrov is overwhelmingly faster.

    I can bet on all my fortune and the rest of my life that He still has that ring. keeping it quietly for the rest of his life. Thats why I said he was stupid.

    Chizuru sped both hands in front of her chest as the game became even more intense.

    Lukrovs strong arms hunt down the young knight while rolling up in dust. When she thinks of that majestic body sometimes gently embracing her, a sweet tingling feeling runs through the core of her body.

    A slight night breeze blew and scattered dust around.

    I dont know if thats the reason. But suddenly my eyes were tingling and I was weeping on spot

    Lukrov.

    Lukrov.

    Chizuru took a breath when she shouted in her heart the name of her beloved one as if saying a prayer. Lukrov, who fought off Barus rush attack, showed an elegant movement then grabbed Barus arm and slipped, as if using that momentum. Chizuru didnt know what had happened. Even Roan is astonishingly raised his eyebrows.

    The next moment, Barus body floated in the air like a half turn.

    Then, it made a loud noise and fell to the ground.

    Baru who was lying down with his face on the ground

    Gu

    After leaking a painful voice, he seemed to try to stand up a little bit, but his arm was quivering and he fell down as if he was immediately pulled to the ground.

    A few seconds of silence wraps around.

    Lukrov took a swaying posture, took a rough breath on his shoulders, and then looked around the crowd, which looked like a circr cage from his point of view. At first nce, the move may have seemed to that of a warrior dering his victory.

    However, Chizuru knew.

    He is just looking for something  someone . he thought it might be okay to fall in love with that someone

    Chizuru couldnt stand still there and started running toward him

    Lukrov greeted Chizuru, who ran out as if she had been tossed, with a smile and opened his arms. Chizuru jumps into his arms without any hesitation, stretches her back and hugged his neck.

    When the two hugged tightly, a warmer cheer, which was different from the heckler to the game, sprang up from here and there, making the evening party even more exciting.

    The stars were twinkling brightly in the night sky, and the light seemed to fall like rain.

    The moon is rising high and the bonfire is burning hot.

    Its a good night for a party like this.

    Chizuru, who threw herself into Lukrovs chest, was wrapped in a gentle feeling as if she had returned to her hometown, which she hadnt seen for a long time, and gently closed her wet eyes.

 Chapter 45

    LoversNight(1)

    While the two were hugging tightly, the audiences who were convinced that the match was over disappeared one by one into the hustle of the festival

    The night was getting darker, the wind was increasing, and it was getting a little chilly.

    When the number of people decreased, the heat around them started to fade, and Chizure felt that the sensible temperature of his body suddenly dropped.

    Chizuru was held in Lukrovs arms and was still warm because she wore a fine dress, but Lukrov waspletely naked except for his pants. Chizuru pushed Lukrovs chest, stepped back, and worriedly looked up at him.

    Its getting colder ? you might catch a cold, lets look for clothes.

    However, Lukrov only made muffled with a dissatisfied voice, and then he hugged Chizuru tightly again, and stopped moving

    mmm, clothes

    Chizuru muttered again, but Lukrov shook his head.

    I want to stay like this for a little longer

    But isnt it cold?

    Its been a while since Ive felt so hot. Dont worry  lets just stay like this for a little while

    It was a mystery how long that a little while meant, but Lukrovs body was certainly warm and his tone was painfully gentle, so she didnt feel like protesting.

    Chizuru turned her eyelids down again, turned her face to his chest, and listened to his heartbeat.

    After a while, Lukrovs hand slowly moved as if stroking Chizurus back, and when she noticed, one stiff hand was gently inserted through her hair.

    She tried to fix it herself as much as possible, but it was far from the perfection than the way Arde had tied it up for her, Chizuru looked up and stared at Lukrovs expression.

    He was smiling.

    It was a quiet smile that was different from the full smile, but still had a shadow of mncholy, but still.

    Chizuru smiled back and wanted to enjoy this happy feeling for as long as possible.

    Is your body okay? Are you injured?

    no

    Lukrovs reply was short, and it was just a matter of course. Chizuruughed out loud and made fun of him.

    Yeah. It was a fight that I couldnt think of as someone who said he was too old could do it.

    And you should remember what I said, as promised, tonight Ill hold you all night until you scream.

    that is

    It may be said that she is a shameless woman.

    However, Chizuru didnt think that Lukrovs threat was so bad.

    At midnight, the torches and bonfires began to lose momentum, and the merchants and craftsmen who had set up tents began to close their store little by little.

    People were satisfied with their gorgeous meals, enjoyed the music, and enjoyed a little boxing match, and everyone seemed to bepletely satisfied.

    Before she knew it, the guest Roan had returned to his room as well.

    After that, there was only a poet who was sitting on a log and talking in front of a few people who still wanted to enjoy the after party.

    Lukrov hugged Chizuru sideways and entered the main tower of the castle.

    After the festival, there were few lovers between their servants who were hugging each other, and when they passed through the empty hall, they went up to the room on the second floor.

    When you open the door of Chizurus room, the scent of flowers suddenly spreads.

    A candle of a size that could not be extinguished all night was lit on the windowsill, and rose-like petals were scattered around it for a handful.

    this is?

    Chizuru looked up at Lukrov while being held in his big arm with a questioning eyes

 Chapter 46

    LoversNight(2)

    Chizuru looked up at Lukrov while being held in his big arm with a questioning eyes

    Lukrov shook his head, implying that this was not what he had prepared.

    Then, I wonder if its Arde.

    Or is it a Roan?

    Maybe Roan asked Arde to arrange it.

    On a small table near the bed, fresh flowers and some fruits are sitting on silver tableware. It was like a service to hotel honeymooners, and Chizuru smiled. Of course, I havent actually stayed at a hotel on my honeymoon, but in the end, somethings stays simr in any world.

    For some reason, Luklov, looked at Chizuru and smirked

    At this time, no matter who did it. With this, I can hold you until morning without worrying.

    Chizuru suddenly received a sucking kiss around her neck and trembled with pleasure.

    Ah, if it feels like this with just one kiss, but as Lukrov says, if it continues until the morning  what will happen?

    When she looked into Lukrovs eyes, there was an answer.

    -Swayed by the endless jet-ck night sea, it would surely be washed away to the far end, irreversibly far away. Far beyond the reach of anyone-

    -However, if Lukrov woulde to the end of the world with me, that would be fine-

    Lukrovid Chizuru on the bed, and slowly slid his index finger of one hand from Chizurus chin to neck and chest looking through the dress.

    Chizurus chest screamed painfully with sweet expectations and a little fear.

    When his finger reached the cor of the dress, he stopped moving for a moment and then suddenly pulled down the dress with both hands.

    kya!

    Because the dress had a wide-open cor, Chizurus chest was immediately revealed. Lukrov had thrilled eyes as if to thank God for this, and after looking at the deep pink, hard nibbles and bulging chest, he took one of them in his mouth.

    Ah , huh !

    At the same time, the other side was patted with his finger, and Chizuru received a shook down her spine and leaked a cry.

    Lukrov knows too well how to feel Chizurus ces. Chizurus body was already numb by the persistent caress on her chest, and began to tremble

    Lukrov kept licking the top of her chest as if to tease Chizuru, who breathes roughly, and seemed to enjoy watching her reaction. At the same time, he was slowly taking off the dress of her. However, at this rate, it was more likely that she woulde before the dress could be taken off.

    Wait ,if you keep up like this  oh

    Lukrov looked down at Chizuru who was begging with teary eyes, with hot, excited, but gentle eyes.

    Ah  mmm!

    She didnt know that someone could give so much pleasure than caressing with voice only.

    Chizuru was washed by the first wave of pleasure, and when she screamed, she shook her whole body.

    Chizurus upper body was tangled with the dress in the middle of being taken off, and she couldnt move much. Still, she managed to touch Lukrovs arm with one hand, and Chizuru muttered between her rough breaths.

    Luk  rovv

    The knight wrapped his big hands around the girl who looked up at him with her cheeks bright red as an apple, and he dropped a hot, hot kiss.

    The night has just begun

    Yes, the knight whispered that into the girls ear.

 Chapter 47

    Chizuru naturally smiled as she squinted at the glittering morning sun that came in through the window.

    The bed sheets werepletely disturbed by the remnants ofst night passion, but she was covered with a soft and warm cotton-filled nket. The act of lovest night really continued until the dawn began to show on the horizon, and Chizuru fell asleep before she even knew it.

    And now she woke up.

    Maybe she had only slept for a few hours at most, but her head and mind are refreshed and it feels good. Only the female part who epted Lukrov many times ached a little bit, but she didnt feel much of the morning low blood pressure that she usually suffers from.

    Because if you can see such a scene immediately after waking up, your heart will work in maximum speed from the morning.

    Good morning  Lukrov

    When Chizuru called out, Lukrov, who was changing clothes by the side of the bed, looked back over his shoulder. When Chizuru woke up and saw her smiling, he also smiled gently.

    I felt like I saw the most dazzling sight in the world.

    Lukrov tied the string that tightens his waist tightly, turned around and put one knee on the edge of the bed, right next to Chizuru, The bed sinks to his weight, and his face, which had begun to grow a little stubble, approached her.

    Good morning. Dont you need to sleep some more?

    no, I feel awake  maybe Im hungry.

    Because of the banquet, there wont be much in the dining room this morning, because many chefs didnt wake up yet

    Lukrov picked up a small apple from the table beside the bed and handed it to Chizuru.

    After staring at the smooth surfaced red fruit, Chizuru slowly raised her upper body and looked around while pulling the nket.

    Certainly, the castle is unusually quiet for this time.

    The scent of breakfast, which usually reaches upstairs, is almost nonexistent, and everything may go on leisurely this morning. She was d that Lukrov was so generous about it that he didntin about it. To the point shes even proud of him, the one who notices his tired servants and gives them a brief break.

    However, she was hungry, and she was still naked except that she was wrapped in a nket on the bed, but she bite into the apple she received. It has a more sour and awakening taste than Japanese apples.

    Suddenly, she noticed that Lukrov was staring at her, who had finished eating everything, leaving the core behind. For some reason, Chizuru was embarrassed by his sexy gaze and her cheeks were dyed in red.

    What?

    In Japan, the apple skin has to be peeled and cut into eight pieces and eaten, but here it is normal to bite the skin as it is, and Chizuru got used to it before she knew it. So, she didnt feel any difort with this, but  When she was stared at like that, she felt like she was doing something embarrassing.

    The edge of Lukrovs lips draws a joyful curve.

    I wonder who was the one who bothered people when they first handed an apple a long time ago, saying that they couldnt eat it without it being peeled .

    . Long ago, when I gave you an Apple for the first time, I wondered who was the one who annoyed people by saying that you can not eat without peeling the skin

    Chizurus cheeks would have turned red just like the Apple she had just eaten.

    When she first came to this other world  when she had just met luklov  of course, Chizuru knew only themon sense of modern Japan, and when she thinks about it now, she has done something quite embarrassing. she thinks she used to call them barbaric

    Its the second time this time,and she cant be bothered to make a fuss unless its a big deal. she think its all because she decided to stay in this world-on luklovs side for the rest of her life, It is not easy, so she wish he would evaluate her a little, not to make fun of her

    Chizuru stretches her back to resist luklov and sharpened her lips

    She fell in love with a savage Knight, so she abandoned the oldmon sense

    Chizuru dered.

    Hmm

    Lukrovs gaze was so happy that it looked as if it was dancing <tl: trust="" me="" that="" was="" the="" line="" thats="" right.she="" doesnt="" say="" she="" wants="" to="" take="" a="" bath="" every="" day,="" does="" she?="" shes="" happy="" just="" cleanse="" herself="" with="" hot="" water="" in="" barrel,="" its="" because="" all="" determined="" live="" her="" lives="" barbaric,="" grumpy="" world="" of="" knights="" him="" chizuru="" stared="" into="" him,="" wanting="" know="" lukrovs="" reaction.="" -i="" wonder="" what="" he="" is="" thinking="" -="" seemed="" be="" satisfied="" something.="" are="" you="" this="" as="" an="" answer?="" yes="" lukrov="" touched="" chizurus="" cheek="" one="" hand="" and="" smiled="" gently.="" long="" barbaric="" knight="" relieved,="" too.="" also="" gets="" difficult,="" that?="" well,="" im="" aware="" it.="" then,="" dont="" make="" fun="" me.="" okay="" agreeing="" so,="" gave="" light,="" touching="" kiss="" on="" cheek.="" for="" some="" reason="" got="" shy,="" it="" felt="" much="" more="" familiar="" than="" rich="" rough="" lips="" tongue.="" <="" p="">

    </tl:>

 Chapter 48

    The morning after (2)

    Later that morning, Arde didnt seem toe yet to help Chizuru with her cloth, so she chose her own clothes and changed to them, finished a light meal that consisted of fruits, and then went down to the hall on the first floor with Lukrov.

    Although they also appeared in the cafeteria, it seems that the breakfast was mainly leftovers fromst nights feast, and the servants and knights were dazed, just as they should be after the festival. Still, they do not miss a respectful greeting when they saw Lukrov.

    Roan and his knights werent there yet.

    They are guests and do not need to work here, so they are probably still sleeping. Chizuru was a little worried about what happened to Baru after the matchst night, but she didnt feel like asking too much in front of Lukrov. Besides, he is also a knight and a warrior. Such matches and duels should never be the first or thest, and may not be exaggerated for his honor.

    I dont think there will be work or training this morning.

    While looking around the empty hall, Lukrov seemed to judge that, and while muttering, brushed his hair with one hand. Chizuru was in a situation where he could not help but to agree

    I think everyone will get up around noon

    Maybe. Well, it is fine for this morning.

    Speaking of which, Lukrov looked down at Chizuru.

    It was a meaningful gaze that made Chizuru surprised.

    What wrong?

    Would you like to go outside?

    What?

    Chizuru blinked at his sudden question. Lukrov continues.

    Youve never been outside the walls, have you? he asked. There are some ces I want to show you before winteres. If youre not tired, lets get the horse out its not that far.

    Really? Yeah, I want to go!

    Chizuru jumped at the invitation without a second.No matter how much he lives in a room next to her in the same castle, there are few opportunities to stay with lukrov, the Lord of the castle, and the Lord of the whole region, all morning except for breakfast. In addition, as he said, Chizuru had hardly been outside the castle yet, so the excitement was also a lot.

    Lukrov took Chizuru out to a beautifulke about 30 minutes away from the castle by riding a horse.

    Leaves and flowers like water lilies are floating, and swans are swimming in a pairs in the waterfowl. On thekeside, grass and other small nts were shining with a golden hue that rms that autumn is near, every time the wind blew it would produce a gentle sound

    The two were sitting by theke and quietly gazing at the scenery.

    When swans made strange movements or small fish flew over the water, they would talk about it andugh together, but other than that they were close to each other and just left their bodies to the warmth of the other. .. It was a natural andfortable feeling.

    I wanted to think that Lukrov enjoyed this moment just like I am

    The scenery of theke is beautiful, peaceful, and refreshing.

    He wanted to show Chizuru such a scenery  Just thinking about that made her heart tremble, she felt sadness, happiness, and madly in love

    Lukrov has not yet said that he loves Chizuru.

    he has not withdrawn the statement that Chizuru is his guest, let alone mention the future, and the ring that Roan talked about was still a mystery.

    However, Chizuru thought.

    Its been about a month since Chizuru returned to this world. Maybe they just didnt spend enough time to fill the deep gap of fourteen years.

    Yes, they have time

    Even if the past cannot be recovered, they have a future.

    Now all he has to do is to allow her to snuggle up next to him. she wants to wait quietly for his wounds to be healed.

    Chizuru thought so while setting next to her loved one on a balmy morning after the festival.

 Chapter 49

    Moon Time (1)~

    Over the next days, everything in the castle went as usual, except for Roan who was still staying as a guest in the castle

    The knights who came with Roan were escorting and guarding their master sometimes, while other times they trained together with Lukrov knights in joint training.

    Chizuru was, as usual, spending time taking care of the children during the day and when he had free time. And at night  I was loved by Lukrov over and over again., who was passionate as if trying to fill the gap in the time they couldnt meet.,

    Chizuru was also the same as usual, she spent the day looking after the children when she had spare time. And at night  she was loved by Lukrov who was so passionate as if trying to fill the gap of time when they couldnt meet each other.

    Sometimes even when the sun was still there, Lukrov began to show his face to Chizuru. While taking care of the children, or while chatting with Arde in the courtyard, he suddenly appears and checks Chizurus condition. After a while, whether he was relieved or satisfied, he leaves a light kiss on her cheek and returns to work and training the knights.

    I wonder if he wants to make sure that Chizuru sama is right here

    Arde was analyzing.

    The rtionship between the two may not be perfect yet.

    Still, I think its a big step forward for Lukrov, who has gone through a lot of suffering and tragedy over thest fourteen years. Even if he is not, he is a cautious person and does not open his heart to others so easily.

    Therefore, Chizuru decided that it was time to slowly build trust with each other all over again

    Then, in the afternoon two days after the party, Chizuru was chatting with Roan while taking a walk in the garden of the castle. Arde was following them while keeping a few steps distance, maybe she was refraining from it because she hardly joined their conversation and just apanied them quietly.

    Roan talked about his wife and two children in a funny way and entertained Chizuru with some memories.

    Roan told her with a rare shyness, That he and his wife met in a so-called political marriage decided by their parents. At first, they hated each other so much that they didnt even want to see each others faces, but before he knew it, she became an important existence to him

    And above all, the existence of the children strengthened the bond between the two.

    Aside from Chizuru, Lukrov is already a good age. Why dont you start making children right away? There are territories and titles. That stubborn head will not say difficult if you want to have a baby.

    Roan!

    Chizuru looked around and hurriedly watched the red-haired knight. But Arde seemed to be listening whileughing silently, and Roan just shrugging. Fortunately, there were no other human figures around them.

    Im serious. Ive never been more serious.

    When they arrived at the courtyard, she saw white flowers growing along the moss-covered walls. Roan stopped there and looked down at Chizuru with a serious look.

    That idiot didnt say anything yet, did he?

    Yeah  but its okay, Roan. For now, I only want to be on his side now, thats it.

    Damn, Chizuru, when I look at two of you, I get frustrated and itchy ahhh so itchy its itching all over my body. Oh, itching!

    Roanined while pretending to scratch his arm.

    Chizuru had no choice but tough.

    Well, words arent that important. Even if Lukrov says he loves me every day, that doesnt mean that things will change much more than they are now. I believe Its a really good rtionship for now I dont think I need to change it in a hurry.

    Hearing Chizurus word, Roan made a difficult face as if he saying he could understand all that I said but he couldnt agree with it.

    I still think he should dere it aloud.

    In the end, Roan said that and didnt touch on this topic anymore.

    Chizuru felt a little restless, but she didnt know what to do.

    Should I shake Lukrovs shoulders with all my might and threaten him to confess his true feelings now? I dont think so.

    Anyway, now she has no choice but to wait

    On that evening, Chizuru suffered from severe abdominal pain and stayed in the room without going out to the dining room.

 Chapter 50

    ~Moon Time (2)~

    I didnt have much appetite, so I refused to need it, but Arde brought light bread and soup to the room before going down. Im didnt want to disappoint her, so I forced myself to eat a bit of the soup, then changed into nightwear andid down in bed.

    It was then that I felt something wrong with my lower abdomen.

    Although it was an incident, it was not a pain that I didnt know at all. An unpleasant sensation of being squeezed and a slight headache  Feel the dampness at the base of your feet and get up. When I looked it up, it was just the beginning of the moon. (TL: its that time of month k)

    (What should I do  Sanitary products )

    Moreover, it seems that the amount of bleeding isrge, probably because it has stopped for a while since I returned to this world and it was the first time in a while. The bed waspletely dirty.

    I managed to get away from the wet bedsheets and searched inside the chest of drawers.

    Of course, there is no convenient item like disposable sanitary pads in this world, but there is a white cotton cloth shaped like a washcloth, which you can fold and substitute. What I learned thest time I came, I should have seen that it was also prepared in the chest of drawers in this room.

    (It was there)

    The target was found immediately, and I took off his dirty underwear and hurriedly reced it with a new one.

    Arde is a neat experienced maid, so she wont make a fuss about the blood of the moon of the mistress she serve. I was reluctant to call her back from her family, for this reason, so I folded the dirty underwear along with the cloth, Ill exin the situation tomorrow morning and ask her to do theundry.

    The problem is bedsheets .

    Chizuru didnt notice the footsteps of Lukrov approaching the room at all, probably because she was changing clothes and folding her clothes.

    Only when there was a dry sound of the door moving, she felt a sign of people and looked back at the entrance of the room.

    Then, there stood Lukrov with a strange face.

    Worried? Is it impatient? Anger?

    She stared at him with a pale face that and she didnt know what to say

    Oh, Lukrov  Im taking in a little now  Can you wait for a little outside?

    Because the sheets and clothes with blood were still in full view, I hurriedly headed to him to lead him out Lukrov. I Reached out to push him out, while he was standing at the entrance of the room.

    Then, Lukrov grabbed my wrists at a terrifying speed.

    Luk

    What do you mean. What happened?

    Well, wait, that

    As if there was no such thing as Chizurus restraint, Lukrov walked the bloody sheets with an amazing speed and turned his attention to the blood on her clothes, which was folded on the floor just near the bed then His gaze immediately returned to Chizuru, who was left behind at the entrance of the room

    The knights jet-ck eyes were swaying in fear as if he was looking at a ghost.

    Although I knew that I had to exin it to him as soon as possible, but I dont think there is a human who can speak fluently when such eyes are gazing on them. I was felt suffocated and couldnt speak immediately

 Chapter 51

    ~Moon Time (3)~

    Then, in a moment while blinking, Lukrov returned to me.

    And he lifted me up while looking at every part of my body, and then he spoke with a sad voice while stroking my hair

    Did you get hurt somewhere ?

    I was barely able to shake my head.

    Lukrov tries to bring me to bed immediately with caution and strength that cannot be resisted. Then he sat me on the edge of the bed, and Lukrov knelt on one knee in front of me

    His irresistible eyes that were staring at me made my chest tightened

    No, Lukrov. Well  that  just because the moon came  I couldnt go to the cafeteria because I felt sick, probably because due to that as well

    While shrinking in shame, I managed to say so.

    In any case, I wanted to avoid the act of love during menstruation, so I had to let him know at the right time. However, it was embarrassing to be noticed in this way.

    Also, Im sorry that it seems that Ive made him worry

    Moon?

    Lukrov replied in a tone that said (I dont know what it is, please exin.)

    Chizuru turned bright red.

    Thats its Womens Day. Do you know? So tonight, we cant sleep together

    Basically, men in this world-especially the knights who live by exchanging lives seemed to avoid the act of love during that period, making the womans moon thing ominous or unclean. Ive heard that some couples have separate rooms without even touching their partner during menstruation.

    Lukrov didnt have that kind of innocence, but even 14 years ago, he was like its postponed  only during her period, and he just snuggled up and slept.

    Moon thing

    Lukrov said again.

    If you are persistent like this, I will feel like Im being bullied.

    I made a firm expression as much as possible and made a tongue twister.

    Well, its menstrual. Im sorry I got my sheets and clothes dirty. But dont worry because Ill clean them tomorrow. And  I cant do that during the period? The sheets are also dirty. But I cant sleep with you tonight

    To that extent, Lukrov whispered and pressed his index finger against Chizurus lips.

    Is it really just the moon?

    Oh, stop it already.

    My face was bright red and I just nodded silently.

    Are you not injured? where else do you feel sick?

    Im fine

    okay if you say so

    The tension disappeared visibly from Lukrovs facial expression.

    Arde said you were terribly ill. you didnt evene to eat, and when I wondered what happened so I came here and there was blood all over the room. Just imagine what thoughts were in my mind

    what he described in the room was a bit of an exaggeration to me, but from his perspective, is that the case?

    I whispered in a small voice, Im sorry.

    Lukrov shook his head and smiled gently.

    Why apologizing?

    That  Ive messed up the ce a lot and made a strange misunderstanding  and, we cant do it for a few days from tonight.

    I dont believe it anymore.

    However, Lukrov was the one to dere it the first time he ced me on this bed while back (You open your legs here just to satisfy my desires)

    There is no love or rejection and I just epted his words, and Lukrov hasnt turned it over yet. In other words, by the definition he gave me, Me, who cannot do it at night, has no meaning to Lukrov.

    Of course, I believe that this is no longer the case

    No, I just want to believe it.

    Ill ept an apology for the misunderstanding, But I dont care about anything else. Dont worry

    The expression that Lukrov showed was more painful than my own

    But

    Its okay  You dont have to do anything. Now, I will change the sheets and just let me sleephere with you

    In a sweet, gentle voice like a sweet candy, Lukrov whispered to my ear.

    When Lukrov moved me to the chair he took off the dirty sheets with surprising dexterity and took the new sheets out of the chest of drawers. I tried to help with putting on the new sheets, but it seemed that it had rather disturbed the sheet and the twoughed aloud while pulling each others side of sheets.

    All the dirty cloth was tucked into the basket at the end of the room.

    That night, the two of us just hugged each otherand went to sleep.

    And it was midnight of that day

    Thatsheappeared.

 Chapter 52

    Chizuru was dreaming that night

    When she was still in elementary school, her grandmother took her on a short trip to Kyoto for the first time.

    Memories of the beach where she went to with her friends when she was in junior high school.

    When she was a high school student, she was alwaysughing with Mai

    It was a movie-like dream where she was quietly watching the images of her memories.

    The scene suddenly changed to this different world

    .

    .

    .

    .

    Chizuru was thrown on her own into a deep forest where she couldnt tell right from left and was shocked, and then when she started walking around, She was surrounded by beasts like animals.

    each beast is roaring towards Chizuru with its sharp teeth exposed.

    Her legs were stiff and did not move, as if she was in a nightmare.

    Even with her whole body trembled with fear, and her heart pulsated so strongly as if it were toe out at any moment, along with the tears filling her eyes and it were to spill at any moment

    She still couldnt move even a step.

    But when one of thergest beasts in the group finally tried to attack Chizuru, a miracle happened.

    A sharp bow and arrow came flying from nowhere and hit the Beasts neck.

    The beast screamed in pain and tried to slip away, however, It began to suffer and struggle on the spot while other beasts in the group began to bark in a distraught manner.

    a tall knight with dark hair and dark eyes appeared dashing and defeated all the beasts with a sword. It was breathtaking scene as if it was taken from a divine work of art.

    yes, it was him

    Chizuru was confident that she will never forget the moment when she first saw him.

    That shock wave.

    Covered in the fresh blood of the beast, He seemed to by hungry for her, even more that the beasts

    That deep darkness of his eyes felt as if she was sucked into them.

    Chizurus heart, fate, life may have already been decided at that moment

 Chapter 53

    When she woke up, the first thing she heard was the sound of rain.

    The sound of owls, which is usually heard well, has calmed down, and instead, the sound ofrge drops of water hitting the ground continued forever. Chizuru opened her eyes and weakly gazed at the fading candlelight by the window.

    Chizurus body was warm, all though it must be terribly cold outside.

    She could guess the reason behind the warmth she felt, she slept sideways and behind her, she could feel Lukrovrge body wrapped around her. she was using his right arm as a pillow while his left arm was holding her waist

    She knows if she made even the slightest move he would wake up immediately, so she held her breath for a while and enjoyed this moment.

    She had a dream when she first met Lukrov.

    Many years have passed since then, and now, in whatever form, they are sleeping on a rainy night, hugging each other. Fate is a strange thing that can not be imagined, sometimes harsh, but when she looked back, it made sense somewhere.

    Chizuru looked down at Lukrovs hand that was around her waist.

    The big, boned, Manly fingers are as powerful as representing the eventful half-life. When she is being held in his arm, Chizuru is wrapped in a deep sense of security.

    It didnt seem like it waste at night, so Chizuru closed her eyes trying to go back to sleep and began to sleep .. and at that time

    Khan, Khan, and a loud noise like a warning bell echoed twice in the dull rainy sky. Its not somewhere far away, perhaps itsing from outside walls.

    Lukrov was raising his upper body faster than Chizuru opened her eyes. Chizuru also hurriedly raised his head and looked back at Lukrov.

    What is the sound now?

    Its news from the castle gate  We seem to have an unexpected visitor.

    unexpected visitor?

    Lukrov, who seems to have noticed Chizurus expression clouding anxiously, smiled softly to reassure her.

    Dont worry. The two rms are a signal that an unexpected guest has arrived, but there is no danger. If the opponent is a dangerous enemy, it will ring four times.

    After he told her that, Lukrov quickly got up from the bed.

    Chizuru was stillying down with only her upper body raised on the bed, watching over Lukrovs actions. He started wearing his cloth and put on his boots

    Are you going to see it?

    Oh, just in case.

    And looking back at Chizuru, Lukrov whispered softly to her ear. I hope will keep on resting her. Im Just checking the matter and Ill be back soon.

    Chizuru smiled softly and answered while hiding her anxiety as much as possible.

    Yeah  be careful. It looks cold outside

    Ill be back soon

    Lukrov repeated so to make her less anxious, he gently kissed Chizurus cheek and left the room.

    When the door was closed and she was left behind, Chizuru felt as if the room was suddenly darker and colder, and felt a slight shudder.

    Who on Earth would visit the castle unexpectedly at midnight?

    There are not many people who travel the frontier at this time when there are no street lights or the lights of private houses.

    Either you were lost and in trouble, or you had a lot of urgent needs. In any case, if it was just a traveler or a messenger, it would not sound an rm bell to wake Lukrov, which means that a person with a certain high status has appeared.

    Because of the dullness during menstruation, Chizuru just wrapped herself in sheets and nket and waited for Lukrovs return.

    However, even after 30 minutes have passed and an hour has passed, there is no sign of himing back.

    As she became increasingly anxious, Chizuru woke up.

    The drowsiness didnte at all, and the longer she stays in bed, she could just imagine unpleasant thoughts. She wondered if it was an attack by an enemy disguised as a guest all that ominous ideas.

 Chapter 54

    When Chizuru decided, she got out of bed and searched for a hooded cloak in the chest of drawers.

    She thought it wasnt a big thing enough to change into a dress, so she put on the dark blue cloak she found on her night gown, put on her shoes, and left the room.

    The corridor was cool and the air felt moist and heavy probably because of the rain.

    She couldnt feel any sign of people right away, but when she approached the stairs, someones voice echoed faintly. She cant hear the content, but she understands that its a female voice. That is also the excited voice of a young woman

    This was surprising because she imagined only men of some age would appear at such a time. Chizuru quickly steps down the stairs. By the time she approached the first floor, the content of the story also began to sound choppy.

    So my proposal is the best option to make this matter end peacefully

    The voice of a young woman, a strange voice that she doesnt recognize

    But I wonder if lords, especially him, will give up so easily?. I can only assume that it will be a stepping stone to swallow this territory..

    That answer came from Roan as She could hear his voice

    Although it was calm, he was speaking in a way that was not like him, which made her feel like he was frustrated.

    Well! are you saying that I am my fathers minion!!

    The woman hysterically screamed.

    I didnt say that, Lady Exia, but it wont work as you say.

    You should keep silent! Im not even talking to you ! Im asking Lukrov sama

    The heated discussion can be heard all the way from the hall.

    Chizurus heart was beating like crazy, and her legs were almost felt tingling from the heat.

    When she reached the entrance of the hall, She can see Lukrov, Roan, his servant Nadal and another a strange young blonde woman talking in her cloak at the end of therge room.

    Chizuru stopped and took a deep breath.

    because that woman was so beautiful, She has blond curly hair, white skin, bright blue or green eyes that she wasnt able to catch the right color, and deeply carved featuresA brilliant dress that can be seen only through the crevice of the cloak.

    They didnt seem to be aware of Chizurus existence yet.

    Lukrov gave his back to the entrance where Chizuru stands, so she didnt know his expression. However, the young blonde, with her big eyes shining with confidence, turned to Lukrov and dered clearly.

    Lukrov sama, marry me, and my dad wont want to ruin your territory. I think thats the best conclusion for everyone

    ..

    ..

    What !

 Chapter 55

    Tranted by Le

    ~Lady X (2)~

    Please, Marry, Me.

    Chizurus world suddenly became pitch ck in an instant, she felt as if the blood was drawn from her body.

    What is that person saying ?

    Marriage? with who?

    With Lukrov?!

    Her heart started beating strongly and the her shivering made it hard to breathe.

    she took a step back, however, her legs got tangled, and she stumbled on her heels, hitting the floor which caused a loud noise.

    Lukrov, Nadal, Roan, and the women called Lady Exia turned around in the direction of Chizuru with a surprise, but it was Lady Exia that was extremely surprised and opened her eyes stunned.

    Who are you? Its not polite to overhear peoples conversations.

    She had a high-pitched voice and a quick way of speaking that matched her shy appearance.

    Moreover, her tone is arrogant, for a person who suddenly visited at midnight and questioning human beings in the castle who appears. Originally, Chizuru should have the right to ask who you are first.

    However, if she is already close to Lukrov and has visited this castle many times, it may be a different story. Chizuru, who noticed it, turned deep blue and turned her back on the Lukrovs and tried to leave the hall.

    Chizuru!

    It was Roan who shouted her name.

    However, a few secondster, a strong hand grabbed her and she looked back to see who was the one holding her back

    it was Lukrov standing there.

    let go of me

    Chizuru managed to say resistance words, but she knew that she couldntpete with his power.

    Lukrov looked down at her with a stern look and took a breathes before saying

    Dont get the situation wrong. Shes just a guest. Theres no meaning for whatever she says she jus

    Lukrov was trying to continue the exnation, but Chizuru was upset and didnt feel like listening anymore. He said a word that made her chest feel like she was hit with a bow.

    Guest

    Guest

    Just the same as her.

    Then isnt she the same as me! Did Arde tell a lie? Did she used to use the room I was in before I came?

    The sound of rain echoing from the outside was heavy, and perhaps Chizurus suppressed cry did not reach other peoples hearing.

    She thought it was okay to ask at least.

    Lukrovs jet-ck eyes became darker as if there is a way for darkness to be darker, and he was irritated and just kept staring at Chizuru.

    He bit his jaw like a beast trying to growl a warning. The grip that held Chizurus hand became stronger and it started to hurt.

    It wasnt a very good situation

    But even Chizuru has a heart.

    No matter how much she thought it is okay to be with Lukrov even if all he wants is her body, even she knows that she is responsible for leaving lukrov alone for fourteen years, But what is painful is painful, what hurts does hurt, and she hates what she hates.

    Release me it hurts

    When Chizuru pleaded, Lukrov made a regrettable look and loosened his hand. However, his gaze remained stuck to Chizuru and did not make a slight movement.

    No other woman has ever used that room. No other person.

    In a low voice full of pain, Lukrov swore so.

    It must have been a line to calm Chizuru. He is a knight who values honor, She doesnt think that he will lie in such a thing. However, Chizuru became rather sad.

    Lukrov never denied the word that Chizuru is a guest.

    Even if he shows affection with his whole body, he does not express it clearly in words.

    She became frustrated when she was forced to realize that again.

    there are so many other ces they couldve stayed in

    Chizuru argued unintentionally in distress.

    Lukrovs expression became even darker, and Chizuru was immediately enveloped in regret, but there was no way out. Chizuru couldnt be relieved until she hears some definitive words. Conversely, if Lukrov said it, Chizuru would have forgiven him all and believed all his words.

    Maybe Lukrov can also feels it from Chizurus eyes.

    However, the following line of Lukrov was also symbolic.

    If you could see how Ive lived in thest fourteen years, you wouldnt be able to say that

    I Knew it..She knew.. and She believed it

    However, Chizuru was just a normal woman, and a beautiful woman was begging him for marriage standing right there, and she was sad and hurt. she really needed clear words from him.

    (I Love you) just this one word is enough. *

    Thats all you need  thats all you need!

    *(TL: I love you in Japanese is a one-word symbol )

    ***

    Finally is thest season of 2020 aka December this yeas has been a RIDE wonder what amazing things awaits us in the future

 Chapter 56

    Tranted by Le

    I love you(1)

    Chizuru was brought back to her sense, shook off Lukrovs hand and ran away.

    She ran through the corridor with such a force that she didnt even know she could run so fast.

    When she entered the kitchen, she headed straight to the small door leading to the outside.

    She was suffocated and wanted to breathe the outside air.

    It didnt matter if it rained She felt that it was even better.

    She wanted to wash away the tears that were about to overflow when she gets wet under the rain.

    The thick wooden door was only opened from the inside, and when Chizuru pushed it up by force, it opened easily, and she was able to go outside.

    The rain at night was stronger than she expected, and the cold wind that pierced her skin blew strongly.

    The cloak she wore was almost useless at this moment , she only had light sleeping wear underneath it and it was so cold.

    Still, Chizuru went through the wet dark path. The ground was muddy, it had already absorbed the rain and became soft, so she almost immediately slipped and fell forward.

    She fall with her knees and hand in the mud which lightened the fall but soon she felt frustrated and her tears started overflowing.

    Why did she go back to Japan at that time?

    Even though she knew it was for her grandmother, Chizuru was swallowed up by a whirlpool of deep regret and became so bitter that she could not even breathe.

    Lukrov was kind.

    Lukrov was passionate

    Lukrov protected and loved Chizuru at all times.

    No matter how open they are, they may not be able to return to those days. There was a fourteen-year period in which Lukrov did not know anything about Chizuru, and he suffered a deep wound in his heart and began to distance Chizuru from him.

    At that time, the words of love that came out from Lukrovs mouth so naturally while now it only feels so distance and heavy.

    ..

    Maybe its just the fact that she was in her period that made her so sensitive and full of emotions. However, Chizuru started crying and sobbing like a child.

    She wanted to get wet in the rain and to be the rain itself, melt, turn the sand into mud, and disappear.

    She can think of Lukrov going up to the altar with Lady Exia and kissing her after they make their vows.

    While she has to watch it from the shadow on a corner seat

 Chapter 57

    Only With Your Heart Chapter 57

    I love you(2)

    Chizuru, stand up! If youre in a ce like this, your body temperature will drop, and youll catch a cold!

    Suddenly, she heard Lukrovs cry in her ear, and she felt him hug her back tightly. Lukrov immediately lifted Chizuru off the ground and made her stand, turned her around, and wrapped her face with both his hands.

    Lukrov

    Chizuru muttered in a frightened voice, but Lukrov shook his head.

    Youre the only one for me, he said.

    Chizuru, you are always the only one. You cant imagine what Ive done to look for you for fourteen years. And then

    Lukrov trailed off and brought his face closer to Chizuru.

    His face was wet and seemed quite pale with suffering and anxiety even in the dark.

    And you dont know how scared I was when I lost sight of you again  you dont know.

    Chizuru gasped and shook her head slightly.

    She gently took his cold, wet hand and brought it to her cheeks so he could feel her warmth.

    Do you want my words? Do you want to hear my true intentions? If so, promise me only once, and all of me will be yours. Swear that you will fulfil your promise. Lukrov pleaded.

    Both Lukrov and Chizuru quivered. And it wasnt just because of the cold.

    Now, the thick wall that stood between the two was about to copse with a noise.

    Beyond that, the hope was certainly not the only thing. It was not just a dream, it was a long, long road that was not just about love, but also included suffering and anxiety.

    But

    Chizuru couldnt stop her tears and nodded once at Lukrovs plea.

    Lukrov bent over, brought their foreheads together, and whispered in a faint voice, Never disappear from my sight again. Never leave me again. Swear to be by my side for the rest of my life until I take myst breath.

    Chizuru nodded again and whispered a little, Yes.

    Absolutely. Never again. He repeated.

    Yeah. Ill never leave you again

    Promise me. Swear, and keep that oath. Otherwise, I cant move on

    I will, she answered.

    Promise me he pleaded yet again.

    Chizuru nodded over and over again. Lukrovs persistent plea was surely a testament to his anxiety and intensity of his wounds. So Chizuru gently nodded each time Lukrov repeated the same words.

    Then Lukrov kissed Chizurus lips violently.

    Despite the kisss violent and devouring nature that took her breath away, Lukrov gave Chizuru courage at the same time.

    After an endless kiss under the cold rain, the two broke apart and stared at each other, panting.

    I love you. From the moment we first met, until now, this feeling has never changed. I love you.

    The night rain wet Lukrovs lips and their cloaks fluttered with the wind.

    Chizuru nodded and kept staring at Lukrov. She blinked her eyes, which were difficult to keep open due to the heavy rain.

    Me too

    You said I wasnt going to get married, didnt you? That feeling remains the same now. Im not going to marry that woman. You know why? Lukrov asked.

    This time Chizuru shook her head.

    Then Lukrov moved Chizurus hair behind her ears. The movement was so gentle that it made her spine tremble with joy. It became difficult for her to stand.

    Lukrov firmly grasped both of Chizurus arms and gazed at her fervently.

    In my heart, youre already my wife. For the ten years I was looking for you, for the four years I thought Id given up, and for thest month, Ive been lying to myself that I dont love you anymore For me, you were already mypanion, and no matter what you think, this fact will not change until I die.

    Chizuru was rendered speechless and was so stunned that she didnt know how to answer.

    This is  Ive never heard of such a fierce, raw, and straightforward confession. So I dont even know how to answer it.

    Lukrov  was all she could manage.

    Lukrov hugged Chizuru tightly and in a gritty voice, but gently, continued. Come on, lets go back to the room. I dont want you to catch a cold where I promised Ill never leave you.

    But that person  she trailed off.

    Leave it alone for now. Roan will deal with her. Lets go back to my room to warm you up and exin the situation.

    Although his cloak was so wet that it should have been heavy, Lukrov lightly carried Chizuru in his arms. Both exhaling breaths raised white steam while the two huddled together.

    The rain continued to fall, but Chizuru was no longer concerned about the sound and the cold

 Chapter 58

    I still often dream of the day when Chizuru disappeared.

    Not only at night but also when I was wide awake. For example, when I was eating, I suddenly entered a daydream and couldnt hear any of the surrounding voices, and drops of sweat began to form on my forehead.

    Even after I reunited with Chizuru, the dreams stopped for a while and then suddenly recurred like an illness and continued to afflict me for a long time.

    ***

    While I held Chizurus body, which had beenpletely chilled by the cold air and rain, I kicked the door of her room with my feet but soon realized that there was no firece here and stopped for a second. I then continued by saying, Lets go to my room. Ill light the firece there.

    When I said that, Chizuru looked at me, astonished, and opened her lips as if to say something, but decided against it and just nodded silently.

    The truth was, I never invited Chizuru to my room until today. I didnt even know why. Perhaps it was because I had unconsciously drawn a line in my heart.

    If I let her into my room, I couldnt turn back anymore.

    Its funny, because I hade to a ce where I couldnt turn back long ago, but there was still a dark fear swirling in me.

    What if she disappears again? Thats a fear that I didnt think would disappear easily.

    I wanted an unwavering conviction that Chizuru would never leave me, and it was difficult for me to be honest until I got it.

    It left an unforgivable regret for me that she was deeply hurt in the process, but there was no hesitation anymore.

    We still had a future. I will love,fort and atone for Chizuru as much as she needs  no, even more than she needs.

    After we passed through the inner door, the castle owners bedroom, which was muchrger than Chizurus room, weed us.

    There was no light, but I remembered almost all of the roomsyout, so even if I closed my eyes, it was not difficult to reach the nearby candlestick.

    Once I set her down on the floor, I lit a match, switched on the lights, and transferred the fire to the firece.

    Thanks to the dry leaves I prepared, the fire spread easily, and the firece immediately burned red. Behind me, I heard Chizuru sigh in relief.

    As I looked back, I saw Chizuru, fascinated by the mes that slowly warmed the room, tightening the cor of the cloak with both her hands.

    Come here, Chizuru, I called out.

    Chizuru obediently took my extended hand and proceeded to draw closer to me.

    The burning me warmed both our cold bodies and illuminated the outline of our faces with orange. For a while, we stared at the mes without saying anything, as if we were biting the silence.

    When the area around the firece had warmed up, to a certain extent, I turned to Chizuru and put my hand on the cor of her wet cloak.

    You should take it off.

    Yeah  but that

    Chizurus eyes swayed as if she was confused, so I put on a gentle smile on my face to reassure her and took off her cloak with as gentle a gesture as possible.

    I remember. Im not doing anything tonight.

    Actually, as long as it was Chizuru, things such as the moon(TL:menstruation) , I didnt care at all. To be honest, I wanted to take off all her clothes and warm her up in a single heartbeat right now.

    Chizuru wore only a thin dress, so it took a lot of self-control and patience to prevent me from tearing it off as I wanted.

    After we took off each others cloak, we sat on the floor in front of the firece and hugged each other.

    I wrapped Chizurus back and put my nose on her thin neckline to enjoy her scent. Chizuru also slowly slid one hand over my cheeks and gently closed her eyelids as if to taste the feeling.

    Time proceeded calmly, and I felt a peace of mind for the first time in 14 years.

    After a while, Chizuru muttered.

    This is  nostalgic.

    I immediately understood what she was referring to. In fact, I was thinking about the same thing.

    A long time ago, in the first winter since we met, we often warmed up while hugging each other in front of the mes. When I thought about it, the first time we made love was in front of the mes of such a firece.

    Of course, it wasnt a magnificent ce like the master bedroom of a castle, but a corner of a small house, but Chizuru learned how to be a woman for the first time, and I got satisfaction from the bottom of my soul for the first time.

    I lightly kissed the top of Chizurus head.

    I dont know if Im nostalgic. Ive been dreaming of hugging you in front of the mes every night. Sometimes I cant tell the difference between reality and dreams  and when I realize its a dream, sometimes my tears cant be stopped.

    Chizuru looked back at me.

    Tears ?

    Ah.

    Did you cry ?

    Are you making fun of me?

    I couldnt believe I was fluently confessing this. Even if Chizuru herself was the other person, I didnt intend to let anyone know. But tonight, the words naturally came out of my mouth.

    Chizuru shook her head with a sad expression as if she remembered something.

    No  I also cried because I wanted to see you.

    Dont tell Roan.

    I intended to say it yfully, but Chizuru answered, Yeah, with a serious face and nodded.

    I missed her voice, I wanted to smell her scent, I wanted to see her smile again, and when I realized that I might never get any of it again, something slowly died inside me.

    Then the idea of needing to wander around to look for her exceeded my need to take my next breath.

    It was now, thus again, I was able to hold her in my arms.

    I felt that the wound that had been torn apart and kept bleeding was slowly and gently being healed and closed.

 Chapter 59

    Promise (2)

    After they settled in front of the firece, Lukrov began to exin monotonously, making sure that the firece wasnt too strong.

    That woman is  shes the daughter of a man named Count Kaftor. He owns thend on the outskirts of my territory. She came to this castle several times with her father.

    Lukrov chose his words carefully.

    Before he started the important story, he wanted to get rid of Chizurus anxiety.

    The King did not give me thisnd with only good intentions. This area was on the verge of war, with smallndowners such as Count Kaftor repeatedly fighting for morend. The man who picked you up first was one of them. The King thought I was the best way to calm such roughnd. The reason that he gave me a higher position than the original Duke was because the re was effective against otherndowners, not because he wanted to praise my achievements separately.

    I wouldnt mind if I lost my life in such a war, but I didnt want to tell her that.

    Rodolgo-san?

    Is that his name? I dont think its necessary to add san.

    Chizuru smiled a little and narrowed her shoulders.

    Lukrov reminded her of the days she traveled with Rodolgo .

    Normally, at best, one or two of Lukrovs trusted knights would have to be sent out to confirm Rodolgos ims. He couldnt possibly have believed Rodolgos story from the start.

    Still, something pushed Lukrov to go personally.

    And then, the two met again.

    Count Kaftor was particrly skilled at it, he said. The other territories were nearly pacified during the four years. But only he, while putting up a pretense to follow me ostensibly, was relentlessly aiming to expand his power. Sometimes he woulde to visit. It was just a visit to the enemy that deres friendship.

    As the mes grew higher and the dead branches began to scatter some ming powder, Lukrov held Chizuru tightly in his chest as if to protect her.

    She is the only daughter of that man and was born in histe years. She would sometimese here with her father. Sure, she did keep her gaze sometimes, but I never involved myself with her.

    Chizuru continued staring at the firece and blinked her eyes unwillingly.

    After all the things shed been through, he couldnt bear to let her feel any more pain. Lukrov slowly grasped her left hand and reached to ce a light kiss around Chizurus neck.

    Count Kaftor seems to be whipping his old body and has started to go crazy in an attempt to confront me over this territory. That woman couldnt bear to see her fathers frenzied look, and came to propose that everything would be solved if she marries me.

    Lukrov shook his head as if he was amazed, Its a stupid solution.

    Chizuru looked down and muttered in a small voice.

    But  she is beautiful  and she seems confident.

    Thats why I said stupid. I dont want to argue about the definition of beautiful and ugly, but to me, she looks like a horse.

    Horse

    Chizuru, who blew out, seemed to be relieved for a moment, but soon she returned to her original uneasy expression.

    Oh, shit,Lukrov thought.

    Lukrov always lost hisposure when Chizurushappinesswas at stake. He would act foolishly about what he shouldnt do and say things he shouldnt say and get impatient.

    Lukrovs hands started searching for a hidden bag sewn to the chest area of his undershirt.

    He found the feel of cold metal almost immediately and it didnt take long to pull it out of his shirt. Then he reached to touch Chizurus left hand to carefully look for her ring finger.

    Lukrov ?

    Chizuru was confused, alternating her looks between her hand and Lukrovs face.

    Lukrov made as polite a gesture as possible and passed a golden ring on Chizurus ring finger. Chizuru turned stiff and stared at Lukrov. Lukrov smiled and exined slowly, being careful not to make the tone as sad as possible.

    I made this one fourteen years ago. While I had a goldsmith make it, the bride went missing.

    Bride

    Thats okay. No matter how many years it took, Ive now finally put it in the right ce.

    Lukrov squinted, thinking of the days of mourning that he would never forget.

    There was a brand new ring made for Chizuru in his hand.

    His memories of Chizurus were vivid in his heart.

    Just by closing his eyes, he could hear her voice so vividly.

    However, once he opened his eyes, he could not find her anywhere.

    No matter where he looked or how many times he screamed her name, the only thing that came back was the sound of emptiness.

    Hope started to fade day by day, but loneliness grew at every moment. It was like a living hell.

    This is a sign that I swear loyalty and eternal love to you. But your world has a different meaning for it as a gift for a marriage proposal?

    Chizuru nodded while looking down at the ring.

    You remembered what I said.

    Ive never forgotten Chizuru, not even for a moment.

    Lukrov held Chizuru and made her face him, the two started staring at each others faces. Behind Chizuru, the mes of the firece spread, further raising the temperature of the two who already felt quite hot.

    Marry me, not only in heart but also in name and reality. Be my wife. I swear to do the best I can to ensure your happiness. I only need you to promise me that you will stay by my side forever until the day that I take myst breath.

 Chapter 60

    Scent of rain

    That night, Chizuru only slept for a few hours. Once the sun started to show on the horizon, she woke up immediately.

    The droplets of water that gathered on the window, the morning sun which shone brightly, the scent of air after the rain, and the sound of raining from outside the castle  everything felt different that morning.

    The castle was also quieter than usual.

    Chizuru softly blinked her eyes as she enjoyed the warmth of the man who was spooning her.

    Spooning her was almost like a habit of Lukrov. She couldnt even remember a time when they didnt sleep in this position. She enjoyed this position the most. Although she couldnt see his face as soon as she woke up and it was hard to move around, it was nothingpared to the pleasure she got from waking up in his embrace while enjoying the morning scenery.

    She started to look at the area around her. Lukrovs master bedroom, which she entered for the first timest night, looked different. Of course, she entered it when it was dark and now it was bright because of the morning sun.

    The room had the same stone built as the rest of the castle, but it was big. It was almost five timesrger than Chizurus room. Surprisingly it had only a few ornaments, minimal furniture, arge firece, a four-poster bed, and a disy of armor and weapons that dominated one corner of the room.

    Although the room didnt make you feel much life and warmth, it was the only room where two ceramic candlesticks sat on the mantelpiece of the firece.

    It was a beautiful ce that was not shy but had a high sense of elegance. A fine geometric pattern in dark blue on a white background decorated the room.

    It was one of the things Chizuru chose on the night of the festival during the weing party for Roan.

    Chizuru bit her lips while she held her breath. She could feel the inner corners of her eyes start to feel hot.

    How could she doubt Lukrovs love for her? Even for a moment?

    Even if he did not phrase it using words, even with his cold attitude on the surface, and even with the rough embraces he gave her. The proof of his affection for her was evident in every corner of the castle. She felt it and wanted to believe it all along. Finally, she could truly believe it from the bottom of her heart.

    Although they settled the matterst night, she still thought that her act was embarrassing.

    Chizuru moved gently in order not to disturb his sleep and brought her left hand in front of her face. She stared at her ring finger crowned with the gold ring he put on herst night.

    The gold ring did not have any jewels embedded with it, however, it had a detailedce pattern engraved in it. It was simr to the Celtic style.

    The delicate engraving on the ring made it clear that the ring was the handiwork of a very skilled goldsmith. It most likely took a long time and a lot of effort to make it and was quite expensive for the young Lukrov.

    Recalling the story she had heard from Roan, that Lukrov had bowed his head asking him for help, Chizuru felt tears start to gather in the corner of her eyes.

    Then

    What happened? Dont you like it?

    The faint voice of Lukrov, who just woke up, tickled Chizurus ears.

    Chizuru tried to look at him and answered with a smile on her face.

    No  its just so beautiful  It fascinated mest night and I didnt realize it had such a fine and lovely pattern.

    Do you like it?

    Lukrovs voice was somewhat satisfied, and Chizuru smiled.

    Of course. Even if you ask me to hand it back now, I wont return it anymore.

    That will be a problem.

    Lukrov held Chizurus body and made her face him and said, It seems that my bride is quite greedy. I have to remember that.

    The low and masculine voice made pleasure run around Chizurus whole body. She trembled slightly from hearing his words.

    My bride.

    Yes,st night, Chizuru said yes to Lukrovs proposal in a heartbeat. So that really happened

    Although she knew it, it didnt feel real. She just realized it when he addressed her with that title.

    This handsome, strong man who smiles in front of her will be her husband. She will live her life with him, perhaps even start a family. It would be strange if she didnt feel that way.

    Its really beautiful  Thank you. But Im sorry that I cant give you anything back.

    Chizuru said while trying to release herself from his arms. Lukrov reacted quickly by embracing her even tighter. He then ced his lips around her neck and whispered in her ears.

    If you want to give me something back, we have plenty of time in the future to spend in bed.

    Lukrovughed while Chizuru turned bright red.

    ***

    I just keep remembering the fact that he had the ring sewn into his cloth for all these years.. just ..how?

    well anyways, I think all of us smiled when he called her my bride XDDDD *the otome inside me went wild*

 Chapter 61

    New perspective (1)

    After enjoying a sweet morning together, Chizuru changed her dress to a new one and went down to the dining room with Lukrov.

    Although she was prepared for the time being to go down, Chizuru, who had just spent a very happy time, needed to face her current reality, the not so appreciated reality with the name of Lady Exia.

    Good morning, Lukrov-sama. I was worried when you suddenly disappearedst night.

    Said Lady Exia, with her shimmering blonde curly hair neatly tied above her head. She was dressed in a gorgeous dark green dress that emphasized her slender, long neck, and allowed herself to take the seat right next to Lukrovs upper seat right in front of Chizurus eyes.

    Chizuru thought inside her heart,Is her heart so narrow that she feels provocation?

    No, that wasnt the case. That blondedy was holding a clear goal, and she would not give Lukrov up so easily.

    Lady Exia looked a little older than Chizuru, with big blue eyes, a thin, pointed nose, and thin lips. She disyed the perfect image of a pampered daughter of a noble family and held a high level of pride that was clear from every bit of her behaviour.

    Even excluding the fact that she asked to marry Lukrov, Chizuru thought to herself that she wouldnt have liked her anyway.

    Lady Exia, who sat next to Lukrov, held a silver ss of wine next to her mouth as if trying to seduce Lukrov in a bewitching gesture, while fully ignoring the existence of Chizuru as if on purpose.

    Unfortunately, Roan wasnt here yet.

    Lukrov reached out to Chizuru, who had a stiff shoulder, and spoke in a clear tone to Lady Exia.

    Lady Exia. This is Chizuru, my fiance.

    Lady Exias hand that was holding the silver ss suddenly froze.

    The beautiful smiling blue eyes turned terribly cold and cruel and nced at Chizuru with hostility. As a courtesy, Chizuru bent her knees lightly and bowed her head slightly.

    Of course, Lady Exia ignored the greeting.

    Did you just say, fiance?

    Chizuru became more and more ufortable with the cold voice of Lady Exia.

    Lady Exia was the only daughter of his political opponent. No matter how much Lukrov chose Chizuru, she didnt think it was okay to make her angry. She didnt want to put Lukrovs position at a disadvantage.

    Therefore, Chizuru kept silent.

    Thats right, Lady Exia. Im going to have a wedding before winter, which means I cant respond to your proposalst night  I think Roan has already told you that.

    Sure, Duke Roan said that, but I couldnt believe it until I heard iting from your mouth.

    Now you know.

    Yes.

    On the surface, Lady Exia was calmly interacting with Lukrov.

    Chizuru wasnt familiar with psychology, but Lady Exia was angry, although her pride was just too high to show it in public.

    She was sure that if Lady Exia had the chance, she would jump on her and scratch her wholeheartedly with her trimmed nails that were as sharp as cat ws.

    As evidence, thedys hand was quivering.

    Lady Exia turned her piercing gaze toward Chizuru and slowly muttered with a low voice

    Yes  I understand. Im very sorry. I believed that my n would definitely bring peace to thisnd.

    Lukrov replied while bringing Chizurus hand to his chest.

    There seems to be some disagreement about that topic, but thank you for your suggestions, Lady Exia.

    Then he brought Chizurus hand near his lips and kissed the back of it and continued. When the weather gets better, I will prepare a carriage to take you back to your fathers castle. Until then, I hope youll have a rxing stay in this castle.

    Lady Exias hostile and harsh gaze still stuck to Chizuru.

    Yes, it would be great if you could do that.

    The tone of her voice was unnaturally soft, which made Chizuru feel her malicious intent.

    Regardless, Lukrov and Chizuru sat down to eat their meal.

 Chapter 62

    New perspective (2)

    Lukrov and Chizuru sat down to eat their meal. Shortly after, Lady Exia stood up to excuse herself, saying she was tired before she quickly left the dining room.

    Lukrov didnt even try to hold her back, and of course, Chizuru didnt feel like doing that either.

    Nadal appeared from somewhere and started to serve the meal to Lukrov and Chizuru. The servant boy grinned as he poured wine into Lukrovs cup.

    I was worriedst night, but it seems that you made up properly.

    Lukrov raised one eyebrow at the boy to warn him.

    I didnt make any mistake. Lady Exia caused the marriage fuss alone.

    But its not a pleasant thing for Chizuru-sama. Besides, Ive never heard Lukrov-sama call Chizuru-sama your fiance in public. Well, even if you didnt say that, I think everyone saw iting.

    With that said, Nadal winked at Chizuru.

    Chizurus face became dyed in sardine red.

    Even Nadal, a young boy, understood the true feelings of Lukrov.

    Lukrov deliberately ignored Nadals point and ordered him to, Bring water to Chizuru.

    Nadal smiled and answered, Yes, yes, and disappeared toward the kitchen.

    I have to re-discipline him, Lukrov said in a sarcastic tone, but he didnt seem to be angry.

    Chizuru smiled and felt his hand reach towards her under the table and stroke her thighs.

    Can you do this whileining about that childs discipline ?

    I put up with itst night. If I dont do this much at least, I wont be able to hold myself backter.

    Chizuru thought back tost night. She even imagined Lukrov after he had be unstoppable and her face turned redder.

    Lukrovs hand gradually invaded the insides of Chizurus thigh and slowly approached her sensitive part.

    Lu  krov

    A suppressed and saddened voice leaked from Chizurus lips.

    Lukrov, on the other hand, slid his fingers even deeper while a devilish smile was drawn on his face as if he was enjoying her reactions.

    How is it?

    We are in public!

    The seat where Lady Exia sat and the seat next to Chizuru were both vacant. Nadal was in the kitchen, and there was no other person in the dining room. But still, if anyone were to pass by they would immediately notice what was happening.

    Chizuru stared at Lukrov with begging eyes.

    She almost understood what he was about to say, What are you looking at me for? Do you want me to stop or give you more pleasure? I wont really understand if you dont say it properly.

    Lukrov

    A middle-aged man who is crazy in love and acts so shamelessly in the early mornings is unsightly, Lukrov.

    The voice of Roan came from behind, and Chizuru came back to reality. Looking back in a hurry, Roan was dressed lightly and had his hand on the back of Chizurus chair. He had a bright smile on his face.

    Lukrov snapped his tongue andined.

    Who is middle-aged?

    Oh, just a few days ago you were saying things about being too old and now you are saying what?

    The big red-haired man ignored Lukrovs dissatisfiedint and continued to smile at Chizuru.  But I have to say, congrattions, Chizuru? Its just like when it rains it pours.

    What?

    With her head still feeling drowsy she followed the line of sight of Roan to her hand. He noticed her ring finger. A beautiful gold ring that didnt exist untilst night was shining and Roan was congratting her on it.

    Even after seeing that embarrassing scene, Chizuru nodded with a smile. Roan took the seat next to Chizuru with a satisfying smile.

    When Nadal returned from the kitchen and handed a jug of water to Chizuru, he began to talk with Lukrov.

    In the meantime, Roan secretly whispered to Chizuru.

    Didnt I say that he definitely still had it?

    You did.

    Chizuru remembered when Lukrov took out the ring.

    He had hidden the ring inside his shirt and next to his chest.

    He kept the ring right next to his heart.

    Chizuru couldnt stop her chest from getting hot just by thinking about what that act meant.

    She was still worried about Lady Exia.

    Rather than feel relieved, the fact that she left her seat so quickly only made her more anxious. But in order to protect this feeling, even Chizuru could fight fearlessly.

    She had no intention of losing him.

    Not to Exia.

    Not to anyone.

 Chapter 63

    Busy days

    After having breakfast together, Lukrov had to leave to do his duty as the lord of the castle.

    The knights training never stops, and they dont even rest if its raining. He once told her, Battles are not limited to sunny days, and when ites to war, it doesnt matter if the weathers windy, rainy, or snowy.

    Chizuru was nning to return to her room with Arde so she could wash up again before heading to take care of the children within the castle. Noah and the other children were fond of Chizuru, and her daily presence around them had already be a part of their lives. Their smiles were worth all the effort she was putting in and made her feel fulfilled.

    While Chizuru was washing her face in a water bucket, Arde fixed her bed and took care of all the dirtyundry quickly.

    Chizuru-sama, you have to make your wedding dress early. There was a nice piece of cloth that you bought with Lukrov the other day on the night of the festival

    Ah, yes

    Chizuru was a bit surprised, but then she thought:

    Of course, Arde already knows that Lukrov called Chizuru his fiance and that Lukrov said he wanted to get married before the winter reached its peak.

    The rumours among the servants were spreading faster than she expected.

    Chizuru herself didnt mind marrying at any time. Taking it slowly wouldve also been fine with her, but if Lukrov wanted to do it as soon as possible, it didnt matter even if it took ce tomorrow. However, it was certainly a once-in-a-lifetime thing, and she really wanted to prepare a wedding dress properly.

    When she finished washing her face and lifted her head from the bucket to wipe her face with a cloth

    Chizuru asked Arde, Do you know how long it will take to finish the wedding dress?

    Arde stopped her hand from working and started counting the number of days while looking up in the air somewhere.

    Thats right Hmmm I suppose if we mobilized all the free seamstresses  I wonder if it will take ten days to make something suitable for the Dukes bride, of course, it will also depend on the type of decoration you wish to have on the dress.

    It doesnt have to be very luxurious. A simple dress will be fine with me, as long as it doesnt harm Lukrovs reputation and wont bring shame if I stood next to him. Other than that, I will be happy with anything.

    First of all, we have to call a tailor ande up with some designs. Once thats done, all thats left is to sew the dress. I think itll be a good idea to talk with Lukrov-sama about the arrangements.

    I see.

    After all, it seemed that it was not possible to go into a store and choose a ready-made one like in modern times.

    Chizuru thought of the fact that there was also Lukrovs position to consider, and they would get busy once they began the preparation.

    For the time being, she will wait for the rain to stop, and when Lady Exia returns and the castle calms down, she could start the preparation with a clear head.

    ***

    KICK THAT WOMEN *scream* we have a wedding to prepare !!!

 Chapter 64

    Confronting (1)

    Heavy grey clouds covered the sky, andrge raindrops were constantly wetting the ground and turning it into a muddy mess.

    There was almost no sign that the weather would recover any time soon. It was almost noon, and Chizuru was looking out the window with disappointment in her eyes.

    Chizuru-sama, whats wrong? Lets y with the ball!

    Noah pulled the hem of her dress. Chizuru snapped out of her daze when someone called out to her.

    Glittering light blue eyes mysteriously stared at Chizuru. She looked around her and saw children who could not go out because of the heavy rain running around noisily. Chizuru smiled while scolding herself that she should not forget about her surroundings and go deep into her thoughts.

    Im sorry. I was a little drowsy. Do you want to y ball with me?

    Yup!

    Then,e on. Lets y. Is there anyone else who wants to join us in ying ball?

    When Chizuru raised her voice toward the other children in the room, and a few came. A child who was around the same age as Noah and a slightly younger child rushed happily towards them.

    The essential ball was not one with a perfect shape. It was a little distorted, and it did not bounce back too much, yet the children were still ying with Chizuru happily.

    Chizuru had so much fun ying with the children that she almost forgot about the misery called Lady Exia.

    Chizuru suddenly remembered that she used to dream of bing a kindergarten teacher. It was a dream that she gave up on it when she decided not to go on to college but was now doing something simr in a different world, in the castle of the man she loves.

    Moreover, she was going to marry him soon.

    It was not easy to survive fate, and sometimes she almost lost hope, but in the end, humans can fulfil their dreams in unexpected ways. It was a strange thing.

    The rest was nothing to worry about. It would be nice if only Lady Exia returned to her home.

    However, before lunch, Chizuru was walking along the corridor in the castle with Arde, who came to pick her up and was met with harsh reality again.

    Lady Exia was standing by a dim wall, alone, without a single servant around her.

    Before Chizuru could even notice her, Lady Exia was already staring at Chizuru with hatred-filled eyes. Even Chizuru, who was not particrly sharp, could immediately tell that it was an ambush rather than a coincidental meeting Such an outright challenging gaze was directed at her.

    But when Lady Exia stepped out in the middle of the aisle, Chizuru was ready for her.

    Even so, when Lady Exia quickly advanced to the middle of the aisle, she said, Oh, hello. Its such a coincidence that we meet in a ce like this.  *tl: yeah right :^)

    Chizuru was not the type of person who immediately hated or held malicious feelings for anyone. However, Lady Exia gave her strange feelings from the beginning.

    Still, Chizuru did not feel like starting a fight from the beginning, so Chizuru answered as politely as possible.

    Yes, its a coincidence. Im heading to the cafeteria now, would you like to join me for lunch?

    Lady Exia snorted.

    I have to talk to you before that. Id be happy if you could send your maid away.

    Lady Exia was referring to Arde while keeping her proud tone. Arde frowned unpleasantly but from her standpoint, she couldnt refuse and had to wait for Chizuru to react to Lady Exias request.

    Have more confidence in yourself! Be firm! After I marry Lukrov, I will be the hostess of this castle whether she likes it or not. Dont be distraught!

    Chizuru kept saying words of encouragement to herself which helped her straighten her spine and maintain a high level of dignity.

    Okay. Arde, please head to the cafeteria first. Ill talk to Lady Exia as we walk.

    But Chizuru-sama

    Its okay. Can you inform Lukrov that I might be a littlete?

    Chizuru intended to show a smile to reassure Arde as much as possible. But she did not seem to be very sessful in her act to reassure Arde as the anxious expression remained. Still, the maid could not argue in front of a guest. After a moment of hesitation, Arde bowed her head and left while saying, Alright, excuse me.

    and there stood Chizuru and Exia, waiting for who will attack first

    ***

    Thie time hase !!! Our Chizuru wont lose to this X

    I hope your Christmas is filled with joy this year!

    Happy Reading !!!

 Chapter 65

    Confronting (2)

    After that, Chizuru and Lady Exia were left alone in the corridor, which was dim due to the heavy rain.

    Chizuru regretted agreeing to her request already, but she couldnt back down now.

    Chizuru looked at Lady Exia and started the conversation while keeping her tone as firm as possible.

    What is the thing you wanted to talk about? We could have talked in the dining room without the need to wait in such a ce.

    Before answering, Lady Exia scanned Chizuru from head to toe with an unpleasant gaze while folding her arm in front of her chest.

    I heard a rumor from a servant.

    A triumphant smile was floating in Lady Exias cold light blue eyes.

    The Duke Lukrov used to call you a guest during your stay. He suddenly started proiming you as his fiance this morning. Its like an excuse to avoid my marriage proposal. Isnt it like that?

    If words could stab people, that was exactly the thing that this single line of Lady Exia made Chizuru feel. The pain piercing her chest almost made her want to raise her voice.

    But  Lady Exia didnt know anything.

    She knows nothing about the history between Lukrov and Chizuru and the depth of their feelings.

    Dont be fooled by such provoking wordsChizuru thought and held both hands tightly to help her endure.

    It may look like that, but its all a coincidence.

    Chizuru replied resolutely.

    But Lady Exia didnt even flinch. She only continued to provoke Chizuru.

    I know you want to think so because more than a few women dream of being the wife of a man like Lukrov and being called the Duchess.

    What do you mean?

    You dont seem to have a status fit to be a Dukes wife. He might take an interest in you now because of your unusual look, but I dont think of you as a good marriage partner for the Duke.

    If this wasing from a normal-looking woman it might have been a little easier for Chizuru to stay calm. However, the woman in front of her was a stunning beauty with shiny blonde hair and beautiful blue eyes. She was the only daughtering from a Count family, and unlike Chizuru who only spends her time taking care of children, this woman had wless hair and was wearing a luxurious dress.

    Anger and shame made Chizuru feel as if all the blood in her body was about to boil over.

    Still, she managed to stay calm somehow and made a clear statement.

    Its not up to you to decide. Its Lukrovs decision.

    Im just advising you since were both women. Im sure that Lukrov is just using you as a temporary escape Well, even if you really intend to get married, youll regret itter.

    That was when Lady Exia approached Chizuru and spoke softly to her ear, Hey, Im a woman with a big heart  I dont mind if my husband has one or two mistresses. You can give up the wifes seat to me, and you can continue to livefortably as a mistress. I dont know how detailed Lukrov exined to you, but we had a rtionship in the past. It would benefit you to keep that in mind.

    Chizuru opened her mouth, but unexpectedly, words of denial did note out. Lady Exia continued to whisper that it was best for the peace of the territory and to mind the difference in the status between them.

    Lady Exias words slowly ran around Chizurus whole body like some kind of poison, numbing her nerves. She had an unpleasant ringing in her ears, and her head shook as if she had anemia.

    Lady Exia smiled with satisfaction and turned around, leaving Chizuru stunned on the spot.

    Chizuru stood there while listening to the sharp sound of Lady Exias shoes echoing in the dim stone corridor as she gradually moved away.

    ***

    Double release today!

    Merry Christmas ~ Wishing you a safe and rxing holiday season ~

 Chapter 66

    Reassurance (1)

    Chizuru could not move from her spot for a while. She snapped out of her daze when she heard a harsh thunderstorm.

    Before she knew it, the rain was heavier, and the creepy sound of thunder echoed throughout the castle. Chizuru started to get scared from standing alone in the middle of the corridor.

    She thought to herself,

    Are the heavens siding with Lady Exia as well?

    Chizuru closed her eyes and firmly shook her head. She then lifted the hem of her dress and hurried in the direction of the dining room.

    Believing the lies told by Lady Exia was not a wise move as she clearly held malicious intent towards her. Additionally, if she was serious about marrying Lukrov, it would be no wonder she was doing everything to get between them.

    Even if it was as she said and they used to have some kind of rtionship in thepast, that was all it could be, a past rtionship Lukrov was separated from Chizuru for fourteen years. She could not me him if he had a rtionship with someone once or twice.

    Right?

    Chizuru hurried through the corridor. She soon made her way to the main tower of the castle where the dining room was.

    She did not cry. But no matter how much she tried to shake it off, she just could not erase the thought of Lukrov holding a beautiful blonde woman in his arms.

    She felt pain in her heart, and her chest tightened.

    She wanted to see Lukrov as soon as possible.

    She wanted to be reassured by him.

    When she arrived at the dining room, she noticed that many people had already gathered and were having a lively lunch.

    Due to the rainstorm outside, many candles were lit on the candlesticks even though it was daytime.

    The scent of wax, wine, and food filled the spacious dining room, and peoples chatter mixed with the sound of rain.

    Lukrov was there in his usual seat.

    He was talking with Roan who was sitting across Chizurus vacant seat and had a serious face. Thankfully, at first nce, Lady Exia did not seem to be there yet.

    Lukrov hair was slightly damp, probably because he was outside with the knights when it was raining. The dampness made his shiny dark hair look even darker.

    His manly eyebrows, deeply carved eyes, and lips reflected the strong will of the owner.

    Chizurus nervous body rxed when sheid her eyes on the figure of the man she loved.

    Lukrov noticed the existence of Chizuru standing at the entrance of the dining room. He stood up and quickly strode to her. When he was in front of her, he spoke.

    I was thinking ofing to pick you up if you were a littleter. What happened?

    A big hand touched Chizurus face while his deep set of ck eyes looked at her. Chizuru felt her heartbeat quicken.

    Uh, yeah Did Arde tell you that I will bete and had asked her to go first?

    Yeah, that woman suddenly stopped you.

    That woman.

    His way of addressing Lady Exia showed some disrespect toward her, but at the same time, it sounded somewhat casual and friendly. It also might have just been Chizurus way of thinking.

    However, anxiety was a monster that she could not control.

 Chapter 67

    Reassurance (2)

    In therge dining room, the two of them were conversing near the entrance.

    We just talked a little bit  everything is fine.

    Chizuru smiled, but Lukrov wrinkled his eyebrows and tilted his head down.

    You look pale. Do you feel sick anywhere?

    Oh, Im okay. Maybe Im a little anemic since its a rainy day.

    Lukrov nodded, slightly convinced, then helped Chizuru by putting his hand on her back and led her to her usual seat. The seat that was right next to his.

    She felt a momentary relief in even the small gesture.

    Chizuru sat in the chair.

    Roan, who was sitting across her, looked into her face and frowned exaggeratedly.

    Have you been scratched by that fox, Chizuru? You have to fight back, or it will only get to her head.

    Although she did not know who was listening, Chizuru burst intoughter at what Roan said when he did even bother to lower his voice.

    Calling her a fox was not strange at all. Certainly, she could feel that Lady Exia held the same vibes as a sly fox.

    Chizuru shrugged and whispered.

    She doesnt seem to like the rtionship between Lukrov and me.

    Thats right. No matter how lightly she had been treated, there was no shadow of another woman in Lukrovs life so far. Even though she came here with confidence, imagine hering and finding a cute fianc sitting next to him.

    Chizuru felt shy about how Roan worded the matter.

    But shes more beautiful than me.

    At first nce, you might feel that way because shes shy. But if you look closely, youll see how rough her features look, which will only make you feel ufortable. First of all, her neck is too long, and her nose is too thin. Her skin is rough. She almost looks like a horse to me.

    Before Chizuru couldugh over what Roan said, she heard a smallugh next to her. It seemed that Nadal, who brought her meal, was eavesdropping from the side. He only let out a burst of smallughter, but he kept on grinning every time he looked at Roan.

    Right then, Roan straightened his sitting posture and held his back straight to the back of the chair, and then he continued.

    But Chizuru, youre the total opposite. Even if you are not as shy as her, when one looks at you they cant take their eyes off you. Your delicate, fine skin, small and pretty nose, round big ck eyes, delicate figure Your being as a whole is like an aphrodisiac that slowly poisons any man.

    After an unpleasant conversation with Lady Exia, Chizuru felt ticklish and was happy to receive suchpliments, even if it was apliment from a friend.

    She smiled while saying, Thank you.

    She was interrupted by Lukrovs arm suddenly pulling her from the side.

    Would you stop hitting on my woman?

    Roanughed happily at Lukrov. On the other hand, Lukrov was being deadly serious and made a scary face while adding overprotective power to the hand that held Chizurus shoulder.

    Im proud to say that its my mission to calm any depressed woman.

    Roan showed a yful smile to Chizuru and began to pretend to concentrate on the roasted meat on the te in front of him.

    When she felt that the tension had eased, she turned her eyes back to Lukrov. He was looking down at Chizuru.

    His gaze was so serious that she could only ask him about it, so she smiled, Whats wrong?

    Dont go findfort in other guyspliments. I will inspect you carefully to let you know how attractive you are.

    Lukrov took a section of Chizurus hair and held it closer to his face. He then ced a light kiss on her hair while looking straight into her eyes, and whispered in a low voice.

    In bed

    Before she could reply, he straightened his face and started giving some instructions to Nadal.

    Chizuru tried to concentrate on her meal with a face as red as a sardine. She squeezed the hem of her skirt while having arge smile drawn on her face.

    Lukrov was not a man who made jokes about something like this. She was sure he was serious about what he said about inspecting her. It was easy to imagine what would happen in bed that night. Embraced in his strong arms, loved in every inch of her body, having a dreamy night full of hot and sweet words

    Although she had a simple mental structure, the anxiety she had felt in her conversation with Lady Exia was fading and disappearing.

    It will be alright. Its okay. I wont be fooled by that persons lies!

 Chapter 68

    TL: Le

    Editor: QianMin

    Proofread: Karen

    her mncholy (1)

    As the day went by, the rain continued throughout the afternoon and the evening, and the heavy sky stayed the same all day.

    Along with the rain that was falling relentlessly, the wind was so strong that they could even hear it from inside the castle, even Chizuru knew that it is not possible to send the daughter of a count like Exia to her home under these circumstances.

    By then Chizuru noticed that it was almost time for Lukrov to show up.

    She was in a state of unease while shebed her hair while sitting on the edge of the bed in her own room.

    It is not that she wasntfortable going to Lukrovs room, but she is still embarrassed to be going in and out freely like that, and due to the inconvenience of being on her menstruation she thought it would be better if she took it easy tonight.

    Surely, if she asks Lukrov about the matter he will exin it properly.

    Thinking that everything Exia said was a lie because she held malicious intent for her was reassuring.

    But it would seem as though she doesnt believe Lukrov, nevertheless, she was on her menstruation and the slightest words could make her unstable.

    She decided to not ask him tonight and use him of things that are most likely lies by Exia and hurt him on the way

    Maybe that was the aim ofdy Exia to make her argue with Lukrov

    Whenever she returns to her home I can just tell him casually that she said things like that, just random chat, that would be alright wouldnt it?She thought to herself.

    Due to the unusual rainy day that was filled with emotion, Chizuru told herself that it will be alright for the time being.

    Then while still sitting on the bed, she looked outside her window and stared at the rain droplets that are racing to reach the bottom, and started thinking about the events that happened to start with the first day she set her foot on this world after 14 years.

    The first thing that happened is that she got lost in the forest.

    Then the days in the worn-down house when she was taken away by Rodolgo and his wife,

    Her reunion with Lukrov while he was wearing armour

    His harsh refusal.

    The physical rtionship that she had with him who was forceful and passionate.

    Her reunion with Roan and the night of the festival,

    Lukrovs confession under the rain,

    It was a short time but so many events took ce.

    Discouraged, hurt, regained hope, exposed to emotional waves

    All of it was like an intense ride of a roller coaster.

    It was probably the same for Lukrov as well.

    It will be a good idea to stay quiet in this room tonight, even the smallest wind of doubt will only cause his passion to explode.

    After she reached this conclusion, she lifted her feet from the ground and adjusted her body and covered herself with the sheets.

    The door of the room was opened forcefully without a knock, a tall shadow came in.

    Lukrov! What happened? Why the rush?

    Lukrov who was patrolling around the inside of the castle and was supposed to bete returned to the bedroom earlier than expected, just because the guards were slow on rainy nights. Chizuru lifted the sheets from her body and fixed her sitting and waited for him to approach

    But.. Why?

    The closer he was, the darker and stiffer his eyes looked.

    Lu.. Lukrov ?

 Chapter 69

    TL:Le

    Editor: QianMin

    Proofread: Karen

    Her mncholy (2)

    The door of the room forcefully opened without a knock and a tall shadow came in.

    Lukrov! What happened? Why the rush?

    Lukrov, who had been patrolling around the inside of the castle  he always said that the guard became slow andzy during the rainy season  was supposed to retirete, but he came to the bedroom earlier than expected.

    Chizuru lifted the sheets from her body and sat up, waiting for him to approach her.

    But Why? The closer he was, the darker and stiffer his eyes looked.

    Although he was wearing chain mail armor, his movements were quiet, and in a blink of an eye, he was looming above her.

    Lu-Lukrov ? She tested.

    I wont believe it! He muttered.

    After muttering this line, Lukrov stretched out his arm and captured Chizurus neck.

    I dont believe it. You promised me!! You made an oath to never leave my side ever again! Was it a lie?!

    She felt as though her heart was tightening in her chest and was unable to make a sound. The only thing she managed to do was to shake her head from left to righttrying to say No.

    Lukrov leaned forward, and she was able to feel his hot, rough breaths on her face.

    Ill tie you up and keep you locked in here forever if I have to.

    Clearly, Lukrov was angry. It was clear from the deep wrinkles between his brows. He pulled his hands away from her, but his face was still stiff. Not knowing what to do next, she just shook her head again and waited for Lukrovs next action.

    Chizuru stood there, stiff and trembling. When he saw what he had done, it was almost like hitting an invisible wall and being upset about it, or as if a boy realized that the pranks he made were hurtful and vowed to never do it again.

    He stood there, not knowing what to do

    Lukrov, whats wrong with you? Please talk properly and tell me so I can understand Chizuru pleaded.

    Just then, Lukrov shrugged his shoulders as if he had been crushed and buried his face in Chizurus neck.

    Fuck!

    The sound he made with his manly voice tickled Chizurus nape.

    Damn, it happened again  I lose myself when ites to you. I cant see or think properly

    Lukrovs weight was heavy on her shoulders, but she managed to stretch her arms and hold him.

    When he felt her hug, he rubbed himself on her neck as if wanting to be spoiled.

    Seeing that, Chizuru thought to herself that he looked like arge dog hungry for love. For the time being, it seems that his anger had settled. She hesitated a bit, then stretched her arm to stroke Lukrovs short ck hair lovingly.

    Why do you suddenly say that? Did you hear anything from anyone?

    Lukrov did not answer immediately. As if ashamed of himself, he silently buried his face even further into her neck. Before she knew it, his hands were wrapped around her back and hugging her tightly.

 Chapter 70

    TL: Le

    Editor: QianMin

    Proofread: Karen

    You Are So Cute (1)

    As if ashamed of himself, he silently buried his face even further into her neck. Before she knew it, he wrapped his hands around her back and hugged her tightly.

    Something was wrong with him.

    But he was acting so cute

    Lukrov, a knight in armour, who literally shone in a hundred battles, now wanted to be spoiled by Chizuru. He was like a little boy who was barely a year old.

    Any woman would be obliged to indulge him. No matter the situation.

    whats wrong?

    Only after asking that, Chizuru realized that she wasughing.

    Im sorry. Im notughing.

    He looked confused upon hearing herugh.

    I dont want to hear an apology. Exin. God, this woman! You wont be satisfied until you drive me crazy, right?

    Lukrovs tone changed to the usual calm tone, which had a mixture of masculinity, sharp humour, and deep kindness.

    It was as if they were back to the old days. Clearly, the wall of 14 years between them had copsed quietly without a sound.

    Chizuru did not hesitate to smile this time. She exined herself with honesty.

    But, Lukrov you are so cute!

    Lukrov frowned and raised his face with a serious expression as though he was facing aplicated military problem.

    No, ording to her experience, it might be the other way around. Lukrov tended to show a cold and expressionless face when facing such challenges. Anyway, it was a really strange expression.

    She could not do anything other thanugh out loud.

    It was not the smartest move on her side as they were still on the bed, and she was caught between his arms. But she just could not hold in herughter any longer.

    This little girl

    He went and pushed her down to the bed in a heartbeat and continued to whisper all sorts of foul-mouthed words.

    A naughty female fox, besides, shes not well behaved at all. I think she needs to be punished.

    Ah!

    Naughty naughty girl

    He grabbed her chest from the top of her clothes and started fondling it with his fingers. Pleasure coursed through her spine as if she was hit by an electric current. The sweet pleasure spread throughout her body from the top of her head to the tips of her toes.

    Lukrovs caresses were so quick that she almost felt her climaxing even though he was being so gentle.

    His words as well

    Even though it could sound like he was whispering foul words, they were filled with kindness andfort, as if he was saying the most romantic words she ever heard. Whispering such words helped her to relieve her tension.

    He lifted Chizuru to great heights in no time, but he was also very gentle.

    Whats wrong, my enchantress? He asked in a husky tone.

    Chizuru was already suffocated from the wave of intense pleasure that he was giving her. He was biting her earlobe sweetly while whispering softly all kinds of teasing words with his manly low voice.

    After her chest was loved and received his full attention it becamepletely sensitive. Even the slightest movement of his fingertips would drive her crazy, and she trembled with pleasure.

    Ah  mmm!

    Finally, making a voice of surrender, Chizuru reached her climax and let out all the ecstasy she had built up.

    Lukrov smiled with satisfaction and pulled her, who was breathing hard, into a domineering, passionate kiss.

    Will you be a good girl and behave?

    She knew that if she did not answer he would continue with his attacks on her. He probably would not let her go with the excuse of having her period. So instead of answering, she managed to nod her head as an affirmation.

    Good girl.

 Chapter 71

    TL: Le

    Editor: QianMin

    Proofread: Karen

    Cunning man (2)

    He probably wouldnt let her go with the excuse of having her period. So instead of answering, she managed to nod her head as an affirmation.

    Good girl.

    With a brief praise, Lukrov embraced Chizuru gently.

    This time, it was not the usual passionate embrace, but a warm,fortable, protective embrace, just like a parent would do to a child. Chizuru breathed a sigh of relief and slowly let herself dissolve into her lovers body temperature.

    After a while, the sound of rain outside rang in her ears again.

    The rain was heavy and gloomy but at the same time full of some kind of life force. It kept shaking, turning the earth into a swamp and puddles, and was sometimes life-threatening, but it gave life to all things in the forest. It felt like it was giving the universe a breath.

    Perhaps love is the same?

    Chizuru vaguely thought so.

    Why did you suddenly think I was leaving ?

    Chizuru spoke in a whisper while fiddling with the fine mesh of the chain mail with her fingers.

    Lukrov did not answer. Chizuru continued.

    Did someone say something to you?

    While saying that, Chizuru remembered that she had a simr suspicion.

    Oh, what if Is she so determined to marry Lukrov that she would go this far?

    That Exia.

    Both were absorbed in their own thoughts and didnt speak further.

    Lukrov took a deep breath.

    She said

    Lukrov bitterly spat out in a faint low voice.

    She said that you were using me while nning to elope with another guy.

    Chizuru turned to look at him.

    Did you believe it?

    I told you, I lose myself when ites to you.

    But even so!

    It was a ridiculous story. Firstly, after returning to this world, Chizuru experienced an unrequited love for Lukrov, not the other way around.

    At least superficially. Why would she want to elope with another man suddenly when her love was finally fruitful?

    When Chizuru pointed that out, Lukrov snorted with self-deprecation and slightly tightening grip on her.

    Hmm, was it an unrequited love? Maybe you were the only one who really believed that. It was as clear as day to everyone else.

    What do you mean?

    I was crazy about you from the top of my head to the tip of my toes, and I was chasing after you without any luck for years, yet I never gave up.

    Surprised by the unexpected confession, Chizuru raised her head and stared at Lukrovs face.

    It was not a joke. His fearless and beautiful jet-ck eyes looking down at Chizuru were filled with undeniable love.

    Chizuru felt her chest getting hot. Her body, which had just reached sexual ecstasy a few minutes ago, was gradually burning again.

    Youre a truly cunning man.

    Smiling, Chizuru lightly teased Lukrov. Lukrovs lips drew a joyful curve.

    Its my nature.

    It looks like its going to be hard to be your wife. I wonder if that Exia knows what shes wishing for.

    Thats exactly right. Youre the only one who can tame me.

    It was Chizurus turn to smile happily this time.

    The anxiety that had been building up in her heart for a long time disappeared quietly; like the night fog that fades before the rising sun.

 Chapter 72

    TL: Le

    Editor: QianMin

    Proofread: Karen

    Forever Beside You (1)

    Now she felt like she could ask him honestly.

    She was sure that there was no need for any secrets to exist between the two of them.

    Actually  she came to me and threatened me in a simr way.

    Who?

    Lukrovs tone was as if he forgot the existence of the Counts daughter in the castle, so Chizuru reminded him.

    Lady Exia.

    Oh, that witch. Damn, I shouldnt have allowed her to stay in the castle. What did she say to you?

    She.. She said thatshe once had a rtionship with you

    Although she intended to say it in a casual tone and tried not to be stiff at all, she noticed her voice was quivering slightly.

    It scared her to even imagine what Lukrovs reaction would be.

    The man who was once called the Knight of Fire, that name did note from nothing.

    He groaned in a low voice and looked back at her with eyes filled with murderous intentions.

    What. Did. You. Say?

    He spoke slowly.

    She could feel the anger in his voice with every word that came from his mouth.

    Chizuru followed up quickly saying,

    Its alright. I know she was only telling lies to try and get in between us. I didnt believe anything she said, and even if it was true, its not like I me you or anything. Its been 14 years. Having a rtionship once or twice is normal, even if there was a rtionship between you two, I understand that all, and Im not angry.

    Chi.zu.ru

    Lukrovs voice grew even more terrifying.

    Men, mmhm, they need it sometimes right?sowell, I dont really care ?

    Shut up!

    Lukrov pushed Chizuru onto the sheets with such force that it seemed like the bed would crack, and got on top of her. Chizuru gasped without thinking.

    Their faces were so close that they could kiss.

    Lukrov looked more serious than ever, and slowly dered in a deep voice:

    I swear on the souls of Edina and Zain. Ive never had a rtionship with another woman. Not even once. Ever since I met you, and during the fourteen years that I lost sight of you. Ive never even thought of it.

    Lukrov

    Hearing that, the only thing she could do was to call his name.

    It was a confession that was so sincere. So heavy, so hot.

    And he wasnt even done yet.

    Look, Chizuru, there are times when a man certainly needs to release. But I have a right hand that works properly, and that was enough.

    Right

    Hand.

    Release.

    For a moment, the inside of her head turned nk.

    Chizuru was not a baby either. She immediately realized what the words he spat out meant, which turned her face bright red.

    I tried to forget you, I cant deny this. But that doesnt mean that I was able to forget you and tried to move on to another woman RELATIONSHIP???! Dont make meugh. If she is going to spit nonsense, tell her toe back with a better lie.

    Perhaps because he said what he wanted, Lukrovs voice regained a littleposure, but the irritation was still visible on his face, not that he was trying to hide it in the first ce.

    While Chizuru was at a loss for words, Lukrov made his way to her lips and kissed her till she was breathless. Then he moved to ce hot kisses on her throat and ears.

    Ah.

    And once again, I swear. Going forward, this will never change. I will never touch any other woman for the rest of my life.

    Chizuru was so overwhelmed that when she tried to call out his name,no sound came out. She couldnt even manage a whisper.

    And  again, countless times, swear that you will not leave me.

    That vow, that oath, that promise.

    She had no intention of breaking it, but now she would protect it even if it cost her life.

    Yes.

    Chizuru managed to answer, even though her voice seemed choked with tears.

    Yeah  Ill never leave you. Ill be by your side at all times  Rest assured.

 Chapter 73

    TL: Le

    Editor: QianMin

    Proofread: Karen

    Forever Beside You (2)

    As the morning dawned, the rain that had been falling heavilyst night disappeared as though it never even existed. The bright morning sun spread warmth and shone gently on the wet earth.

    The remnants of the rain were absorbedpletely into the ground.

    The sun cast a delicate light from the sky as if announcing the beginning of winter. While it cannot be said that the weather was clear, it was good enough to send Lady Exia on her way back home.

    Forming a small travelling group, Lady Exia was apanied by the escorts she came with and several knights from Lukrovs castle.

    Hmm, I was willing to send her back immediately even if the storm didnt break.

    Lukrov whispered in her ear.

    Although it was early in the morning preparations were made quickly. By the time breakfast started, all preparations to send Lady Exia back home were ready.

    Lady Exia wants to see Chizuru-sama before she leaves

    Nadal came to deliver the message to Chizuru and Lukrov who were still in the bedroom.

    He had entered just as Chizuru was helping Lukrov get dressed. The young Nadal immediately blushed when he saw the intimate atmosphere between the lovers.

    Lukrov nced back at Chizuru, who was adjusting the belt behind him, and silently asked what she wanted to do about this request.

    Chizuru hesitated for a moment.

    If possible, I dont want to meet Exia anymore.

    Nevertheless, it should be quite important for Chizuru to stand proudly next to him and see Lady Exia, who seems to be still seeking a marriage with Lukrov. That was why Lukrov was giving Chizuru a choice where he normally would not in such matters.

    I understand. Ill go.

    As Chizuru responded bravely, Nadal sighed with relief, and Lukrov looked at her with admiration.

    If you dont like it, you can decline her request, Chizuru. Ill warn that woman.

    No Its okay. Its much more persuasive if Im by your side, isnt it? I think its better to be clear here because she looks like a person who would likely get carried away.

    Nadalughed aloud at Chizurus words.

    Lukrov-sama, please marry Chizuru as soon as possible! If such a person bes the mistress of this castle, I will work ten times harder than I do now.

    I know.

    Lukrov replied. Then, with a passionate look toward Chizuru, he added, Immediately.

    Chizurus cheeks flushed red from the determination in his eyes.

    How long would it take for Chizuru to get used to Lukrovs straightforward passion? Even though she was originally a modest Japanese person with a modest conception of affection, Lukrov was beautiful enough to appear in foreign magazines! Just staring at him made her lose strength in her knees.

    It had not changed even after 14 years On the contrary, the savior knight of the kingdom seemed to have be even more attractive.

    He gently put his hand against Chizurus blushing cheeks.

    Thats why you should dress like the mistress of the castle and show that horsewoman, that you are my wife. Nadal, call Arde right away.

    Nadal replied, Yes, and quickly left the room.

    Chizuru, who was left behind, stared at her future husband. His face made her remember the anxiety she feltst night and the promise they made again.

    Because Ill be by your side forever.

    The question right now was when would he get used to it, when would his mind be at ease from the anxiety that weighed heavily on his mind? Would Chizuru disappear like a bubble one day? That was the main reason he kept asking for her promise.

    That was why Chizuru must never break this promise.

    Its an exaggeration to describe it as showing off  but Im happy to be by your side Lukrov.

    When she confessed that, he turned around and hugged her tightly as if he were trying to squeeze something out of Chizuru.

    Chizuru waited for Lukrov to say something, but in the end, he did not say anything, he just hugged her tightly.

 Chapter 74

    TL: Le

    Editor: QianMin

    Proofread: Karen

    Mistress of the castle (1)

    In preparation to leave Arde swiftly arrived, quickly picked a dress, dressed Chizuru, and styled her hair. Everything happened so quickly as if nned.

    Although Lukrov did not wear armor, he wore a chain mail around his upper body, carried a long sword on his back, and a dagger around his waist. As a courtesy, Lukrov, as the lord of the castle, had to apany the group until they left the castle town.

    Will youe with me?

    Lukrov asked, but she refused.

    It would take less than 20 minutes to get to the towns gate, a little longer if the horses stopped. It was ridiculous to prepare a horse and a harness ready for Chizuru for such a short distance and dy the travelling group. Besides, she was not a good horse rider in the first ce, and riding a horse while on her period was quite ufortable.

    I will be waiting for your return to the castle as a proper wife would do. It seems that there are various preparations for the ceremony as well.

    They were only going to meet Lady Exia briefly. Lukrov would ride with them to the gates and escort her out of the castle town, so everything should go well.

    As it was supposed to.

    Chizuru wore a dress to match the g of Lukrov castle. The g was ck, and it had a red pattern embroidered using a red thread. She tied her hair up neatly and headed out.

    The travelling group was gathered in the square in front of the castle.

    Lady Exia was wearing a thick coat made from expensive animal fur. While sitting on top of the horse, she looked down at Chizuru and spoke in a proud tone.

    Well then, I shall be leaving for the time being. I hope we can meet again.

    It was as if she wanted to say that she was the winner. Her pale blue eyes even had a cunning smile floating inside them.

    Chizuru took a breath and straightened her back. Yes, thats right. Pleasee to our wedding if you like. I will wee you.

    Oh, your wedding

    Lady Exiaughed bitterly, I dont know about that.

    Thats alright, Chizuru reassured.

    Ill remember. Good day to you, youngdy.

    Lady Exia did not call Chizuru by her name until the end. She did not say it clearly, but it was crystal clear that she was trying to make a fool out of her. Chizuru kept her difort hidden and maintained a poised expression. She looked back at Lukrov, who was standing behind her, with a smile.

    Have a nice day Lukrov. Pleasee back soon.

    Of course love.

    Lukrov wrapped Chizurus face with both hands, gently held it up and kissed her deeply. The sweet and slow kiss made her legs tremble and caused her to be unable to stand without grabbing his arms. This appearance made the attendants and knights around them blush.

    Only Lady Exia had a sharp, cold gaze.

    Lukrovs lips separated from Chizurus with a regretful gaze, and the two silently stared at each other.

    With the cold morning air, their breath was white, and before she knew it, the expression on Lukrovs face became softer, as if he was a different person than the one she met when she came to this world the second time.

    The stubbornness and the despair he had on his face disappeared, and the only thing left was the expression of a youthful man full of hope.

    Chizuru suddenly felt something strong inside her. It was a desire to protect.

    I have to protect this man.

    The promise I made with him.

    The love we have.

    That was why she should not lose to this overly self-conscious blonde-haired, blue-eyed Countess.

    Straightening her back, she stood with a face full of confidence.

    Chizuru stood on her tiptoes, grabbed Lukrovs tunic with one hand and gave him a brief kiss on his cheek.

    To be honest, it took a lot of courage for the Japanese Chizuru to do this in public.

    But

    As expected, when her hands slipped off his face, Lukrov looked down at Chizuru with a happy smile. That alone made her feel rewarded.

    I will be waiting for you.

    When she said this, Lukrov straddled his horse dashingly, as if he was given a signal.

    First group, proceed!

    Lukrovsmand echoed through the clear sky, and the group formed to send Lady Exia back quickly left the gate briskly.

    Lukrov was in front, Lady Exia was in the center surrounded by young knights, and at the end of the group, the castle g was raised high.

    Arde stood next to Chizuru, who was seeing them off.

    Lets go inside. Now that its quiet, we have to prepare for the marriage ceremony as soon as possible, right?

    The maids eyes narrowed as if satisfied, and she looked at Chizuru with admiration.

    Chizuru nodded.

    Finally, after seeing Lukrov disappearing into the forest surrounding the castle, she returned to the castle with Arde.

 Chapter 75

    Mistress of the castle (2)

    On her way back to the room, Chizuru stopped by the castle hall.

    Since it was nearly breakfast time, she could smell the rich and appetizing scent just by standing near the entrance.

    Perhaps due to sending Lady Exia off this morning, the servants looked busier than usual.

    Good morning, Chizuru-sama. The weather is much better today!

    One of the female chefs noticed Chizuru and bowed her head respectfully while wiping her hands on her stained apron.

    Following that incident, the rest of the knights and servants approached Chizuru one after another and offered their greeting while exchanging light conversations.

    Chizuru tried to answer each andevery one of them properly.

    Until now, the residents of this castle had never interacted with Chizuru.

    It was probably because Lukrov kept his gaze on her at all times, but even so, she felt that the atmosphere was a little different this morning

    She wondered if she was now because she was epted as one of them rather than the treatment of theLords important guest.

    Everyone is convinced that Chizuru would be the mistress of this castle now. That dress looks great on you too.

    Arde smiled proudly, pointing at the dress that was tailored to match the Lukrovs g.

    Oh, I guess so

    Although she was just praised for the dress, Chizuru was happier about being praised as the new mistress of the castle and started to blush.

    From now on

    From now on, Chizuru was really going to marry Lukrov.

    Finally, after a year and a few months  14 years ago for Lukrov .

    Although her heart was prepared for what wasing, she was overwhelmed by indescribable excitement.

    If she entered the dining room now, she would be served hot breakfast right away, but she decided to wait for Lukrovs return in his room and have breakfast together with him.

    It should not take long before he came back, and it would be lonely if she had to sit alone on the top seat. Additionally, Roan would not wake up for at least an hour.

    In times of peace, such as now, Roan usually slept in. It wasmon for aristocrats such as himself.

    Arde, you can go eat first. Im going back straight to my room.

    Really? I would like to help

    Its okay. You must be hungry as we woke up early in the morning, right? You cane after you finish eating.

    As Chizuru smiled brightly, Arde sighed, bowed her head and went into the dining room. After seeing Ardes back, Chizuru took a deep breath.

    Atst, Lady Exia was on her way home.

    From now on, it was time to begin the preparations for the wedding. She had to start preparing the dress, decorations for ceremonies and sort out the invitations.

    Since her husband-to-be Lukrov had the status of a duke, as well as the lord of a castle, although they didnt intend to have a big ceremony, it also shouldnt be a small wedding with just the two of them.

    I want to invite Roan, his wife, his children, and of course, the residents of the castle as well. I hope everyone will have fun.

    Chizuru thought to herself while walking in the corridor, heading to her room.

    Is there a flower shop in the castle town? I want to decorate the ce where the ceremonys held with lots of flowers, preferably white flowers.

    The dress will be simple and nice, but it should also look elegant. Should the people of the castle town participate as well? I wonder if the people at Roans wee party would join as well ?

    Chizuru was lost in her thoughts and was walking with her eyes cast on the floor.

    When she finally reached the stairs to head up, she bumped into a big ck shadow that suddenly appeared in front of her.

    She was shocked and took a step back, then she raised her face, and her gaze went straight to the person in front of her.

 Chapter 76

    An Unexpected Development (1)

    When she raised her head, her gaze met with a young mans face that seemed as surprised as she was.

    It was Baru.

    She hadnt seen him since the evening of that feast.

    Even at meals, he never saw Chizuru. Either he intentionally shifted the time or had his meals sent him to his room. It was not certain whether Lukrov ordered it behind the scenes or if Baru himself chose to do so, but there was no doubt that he avoided Chizuru anyway.

    Chizuru could understand the reason somehow.

    Sorry, Chizuru sama.

    Baru quickly grabbed her upper arm and prevented Chizuru from falling, but he hurriedly let go. As if he made the mistake of touching a forbidden fruit.

    Chizuru sighed and looked up at Baru.

    Im sorry about this  I was drowsy.

    It was also possible that her future husband, Lukrov, was making the young mans stay inconvenient. Although it sounded ridiculous, Chizuru implicitly hinted at such an apology.

    Baru seemed to understand the hidden meaning of her apology immediately. He took a step back from Chizuru and showed a sincere smile.

    Its not your fault. Dont worry. I just thought you have gone out with the Duke Lukrov this morning, and I thought of going to the dining-room.

    Chizuru blushed and smiled shyly.

    After all, Lukrov must have told him not to meet Chizuru. Even so, it was cruel to ask a young man like Baru to stay in his own room.

    Im sorry. Thats not your fault.

    Baru smiled and shook his head.

    Im so lucky I wasnt kicked out of the castle. I was even prepared to be hanged at that time.

    Ha-hanged?

    Anyway, if the Duke knew I was with you, he wouldnt let me live. Are you alone? An escort or a maid?

    Baru, with his excellent physique, turned his head while looking around.

    There was a possibility that a ninja-like person was watching over Chizuru while she didnt notice. It was not as if she was doing anything suspicious, but she just didnt want to create a meaningless misunderstanding.

    Baru must have felt the same thing.

    I sent my maid to eat breakfast. Im just going back to my room, so I think its okay for you to head to the dining room

    Chizuru turned to the stairs and indicated that she was about to leave.

    It is best for both of us to pretend that this coincidence did not happen.

    Baru nodded and smiled sadly.

    Then, excuse me

    It was Barus way of signalling that he was leaving as well.

    At first, she felt a faint presence around her, but she wasnt sure if it was real, or if it was her imagination. Then there was a strange light that blinded her for a second, and she was suddenly unable to move.

    Mmm..!

    Her mouth was blocked, causing Chizuru to let out a muffled voice.

    It was at that moment that she realized she was being restrained from behind by an unknown person. She felt a dagger held in his hand. Then, he reached out to hold it next to her throat.

    The de of the dagger, cold as ice, was pressed against her throat.

    She had no chance of fighting back. Even if there was, it wasnt a power that Chizuru couldpete with.

    Dont make a sound. If you raise your voice, Ill kill you  I was told that it doesnt matter if I brought you dead or alive.

    A horrifying, low voice whispered in Chizurus ear.

    Her body stiffened with fear. She felt cold sweat all over her body.

    What on earth is this? Who why!

 Chapter 77

    An Unexpected Development (2)

    What on earth is this? Who why!

    She stared at Baru, who was standing there with his eyes wide open.

    It was needless to say that Baru was clearly unarmed.

    Im sure he was banned from carrying weapons after the feast night match. Such punishment was often given to a knight who had caused confusion.

    Ah.

    Moreover, this attacker was cautious.

    Same goes for you, young man! Im not alone  If you try to move even once, this womans neck will be severed from her torso.

    The assassin said.

    She could see mes of rage burning in Barus eyes.

    His fearless face was distorted, and droplets of sweat appeared on his forehead.

    For a warrior like Baru, it was disgraceful to be attacked while being unarmed, and so was having the woman beside him taken as a hostage while not being able to make a single move.

    Even so, Chizuru must have been a headache for Baru. He was misunderstood by showing her some kindness on the night of the festival resulting in the castle owner bing angry with him. And now this

    Sadly, Chizuru knew that it wouldnt be unreasonable for Baru to escape here.

    It had nothing to do with him if she was kidnapped or taken away. On the contrary, it might be refreshing to get revenge on Lukrov, who had hit him with irrational anger.

    Chizuru held back her tears and swallowed the sob in her throat.

    Lets go.

    The eerie voice of the attacker reached Chizurus ears.

    Kidnapping. Dead or alive.

    Lukrov will be back soon. She just promised him that she would never leave his side.

    As if I would let you!

    Baru yelled before trying to attack the kidnapper.

    It was as expected from a warrior who could stand on an equal foot as Lukrov. Despite being unarmed, he approached bravely and grabbed the kidnappers hand that held the dagger.

    Baru, the kidnapper, and Chizuru copsed on the floor.

    Gua

    She heard a growl, and she saw that Baru had twisted the kidnappers arm and barely held it against the stone floor. She was stuck between the two men and couldnt move no matter how hard she tried.

    Please run away! Hurry up!

    Baru shouted loudly.

    He was trying to make her escape even when his life was at stake. She couldnt refuse after seeing his state. She struggled to escape the hold between the two men and desperately twisted her body to release herself. However, the more she struggled, the more lost she felt. She wasnt able to figure which way to go.

    She could feel the knees and elbows of the men hitting her here and there. Fighting not to lose consciousness was her main concern.

    She had to run away!

    She promised him!

    She promised that she would never leave his side!

    Chizuru managed to get her lower half out of the mess. Her skirt rode up to her thighs, and her hair that had been done neatly this morning was scattered all over her face. Regardless, she continued fighting her way out to release her upper body.

    Hurry, hurry, hurry!

    She wanted to scream for help, but she could barely breathe and couldnt speak.

    Lukrov, Lukrov, Lukrov!

    If only he could hear her cries, he would rush to save her even if it meant turning everyone in the world against him. No matter how hopeless the battle seemed, he would never run away. He wouldnt give up, no matter how painful it gets.

    Knowing what type of man he was, she couldnt possibly betray such a man.

    As a final resort, Baru kicked Chizurus back with his foot. It might seem like a rough action, but it couldnt be helped from the current situation, and thanks to that, Chizuru was released from the conflict between the two men.

    Run away! Dont wait for me!

    Having abandoned his usual honorifics, Baru shouted at Chizuru.

    In the old days, she might have refused to run away and leave her friends behind at such moments. But Chizuru learned that even if she, who couldnt fight at all, remained, she would just hold them back, creating a far worse disaster.

    The only thing she could do now was to run away and call for help with all her might.

    Chizuru stood up and started running, but another shadow appeared.

    This time it didnt look like a person.

    A ck cloth suddenly fell on Chizuru from above, covered her and blocked her vision. She copsed at the sudden harsh impact. It felt as if someone just jumped on her from the outside.

    She tried to scream.

    But her screams wouldnte out. She was struck by the sharp pain in her abdomen  She could hear Barus cries from a distance until she finally lost consciousness.

 Chapter 78

    Colours Of His World (1)

    Chizuru recalled this vague dream-like memory asionally.

    The figure of the young man, Lukrov, who protected her when she first fell into this world.

    She used to be so stubborn.

    As Chizuru was having trouble riding a horse, Lukrov remarked sarcastically, How did you survive for this long without riding a horse?

    Chizuru used to cause trouble here and there due to her unfamiliarity with this new world and all the new experiences she was facing.

    Seeing her deal with all of that gave Lukrov constant headaches, and he developed a habit of scolding her whenever she messed up. However, he always helped her in the end.

    Fix your position. You cant ride a horse that way. Bring your hip closer to the saddle .

    Lukrov popped up from behind and ced his hands around her hips in an attempt to fix her position on the horse, but once she felt his touch, a small voice escaped instantly before her brain registered what he was doing.

    Kyaaa!

    Ah, Then

    He interrupted her roughly saying

    Just answer this question,were there no horses in your world?

    Chizuru felt like crying because he looked so devilishly handsome, yet terrifying at the same time, which made her tremble.

    Until a few weeks ago, she was a normal woman who lived in Japan.

    Even though they spoke the samenguage, everything was different. It was the first time Chizuru had let a foreigner so close to her, let alone the fact that he was a very beautiful man, wearing silver chain mail and carrying two long swords on his back that looked twice as wide as Japanese swords.

    Ah, and the fact that he had a dagger around his waist instead of a smartphone.

    Truly

    Its not that we didnt have it, but no one used it for transportation, maybe some people did, but in my country, no one rode it unless it was a hobby. Instead, we had other methods for transportation: trains, cars, bu

    Trains?

    He interrupted with a serious face, questioning her.

    His eyes narrowed as if he was asking for an exnation, but how was she supposed to do that?

    She was now in a world where they didnt even have proper bicycles, let alone horse-drawn carriages! And now she was supposed to exin what a train was

    Just where should she start? With electricity?

    But she had to answer him anyway so for the time being

    Its like an iron box, if you pay a fare, you can ride it to reach your destination.

    That was the simplest exnation she could think of.

    Lukrov nodded as if he was convinced and spoke, Is it magic then?

    Well

    Im sorry, but we dont have no such advanced magic in this world, so youll have to learn how to ride a horse.

    That  I see

    This was the moment when I feared that I might not be able to get along with this person forever.

    No, maybe it was the moment when she began to think that she wanted to spend eternity with this person.

    Lukrov squeezed the reins of the horse with a practised hand and rode behind Chizuru.

    She trembled when she sensed his sturdy body behind her.

    She still remembered how he whispered gently to her ears.

    Well Ill give you a ride until then.

    Itwas at this moment that she woke up feeling a sharp pain between her eyes.

 Chapter 79

    Colours Of His World (2)

    The morning mist cast a white haze over the area.

    As Chizuru slowly opened her eyelids, a sharp pain in her temple caused her to squeeze her eyes shut again. After a while, she carefully opened her eyes again.

    A stone wall filled with ancient colors came first into sight, and Chizuru blinked a few more times to get rid of her drowsiness.

    Ah, these are the colors of Lukrovs world.

    With that thought in mind, she sighed with relief and turned around, expecting to find Lukrovs warmth behind her.

    But it wasnt Lukrovs warmth that she found.

    No, it wasnt even Lukrovs room.

    It was an unfamiliar, circr, narrow room  with a rough mattress that looked like a poor quality grain sack, and had a fishy, mossy smell. And there in the back, against the stone wall, was Baru who seemed to have been beaten up.

    Ugh

    Chizuru suddenly scrambled to get up.

    Well, she tried to get up, but she had a terrible headache. She curled back while holding her hands against her head.

    A shock like a bell ringing dong, dong echoed in her head.

    She was thirsty, and her stomach was growling.

    What on earth..

    Slowly, she raised her head, still notprehending her current situation, but she was on the verge of tears.

    Oh, Lukrov.

    Im sorry, Baru muttered with a weak voice. His face was pale. He had dark circles around his eyes, a cut near his lips, and bruises all over his body as if someone had used him as a punching bag.

    I couldnt protect you. I shouldnt have given up even if it meant dying!

    After blurting that out, Barus head dropped and he looked down in disappointment.

    He was dressed in the same clothes he had worn when they bumped into each other by chance in the castle, but what had looked clean and neat was now terribly dirty. It was dotted with stains of a dark brown color that looked like dirt or blood.

    Where are we?

    Chizuru managed to squeeze out a shaky voice while looking at her surroundings.

    The room was in the shape of a cylinder, with a high ceiling that was slightly narrower than the floor. There was only one small window out of reach, and three rusty iron bars lined up vertically to keep out intruders. ******check tl notes

    Or perhaps it was to prevent them from escaping.

    Looking at the structure, it looked like it was the top floor of a tower, but that was it. She could not identify the location nor their situation due to the morning mist that filled the air and blocked their vision.

    While keeping his gaze down, Baru began to exin slowly

    I dont know where we are  but we are trapped.

    But  by whom

    While you were unconscious, two guards appeared in the castle. I managed to force one of them to confess that he was there on Count Kaftors orders.

    Chizuru was speechless.

    Count Kaftor was certainly Exias old father. A sly man who aimed for Lukrovs position. Exia had suggested marriage, at least allegedly, to stop the old count from running wild.

    But now she wondered if that was true or not.

    Maybe Exia had teamed up with her father and came to Lukrovs castle as a spy, in addition to sneaking around and nting false rumors between them and weakening their rtionship, while disturbing the normally well-guarded castle in order to kidnap her.

    What else was Exia hiding?

    Feeling desperate, Chizuru shook her head helplessly.

    Is he using me as a hostage to drive Lukrov out of the territory? To threaten that if Lukrov didnt leave the territory he would kill me, and if Lukrov gave up on the territory, he will return me safely?

    Baru raised his head slightly, and the corner of his mouth hooked up into a mocking smile.

    Yes, maybe. He answered sarcastically.

    When she woke up from her happy dream, the world was gray and grim, and a nightmarish realityid before her.

    Then Baru exined in a dull, emotionless voice, breaking down the details he knew.

    Baru exined that it had already been a whole day since they had been kidnapped. He had woken up on the way here, but his hands and feet had been tied and mouth gagged, and he was unable to fight back. He knew that they were in a deep forest and that it would not be easy for outsiders to find them

    Chizuru listened to his exnation in silence.

    Even though she had just woken up, her whole body felt worn out. Her vision was blurry, and she had to clench her teeth and gasp for air to prevent tears from falling.

    Butwhy did they take you too? She asked.

    Baru shook his head from side to side weakly whilestaring fixedly at the wall instead of Chizuru.

    For one thing, I was persistently trying to fight back. I had no intention of letting them take you away, so I guess from their perspective, they had no other choice, and secondly .

    He hesitated for a moment before continuing his exnation.

    And secondly, they wanted it to seem like we disappeared at the same time in order to confuse Duke Lukrov.

    Chizurus mind shed back to the night before, remembering Lukrovs bitter confession.

    She said that you were using me while nning to elope with another guy.

    Chizuru felt like crying on the spot.

    Oh god, did that mean, if there were no witnesses there

    When Lukrov gets back to the castle, he would have to face the reality that Chizuru and Baru had both disappeared at the same time.

    That wicked Exia had already filled his head with suspicions that she was nning to elope with another guy

    Im sorry

    Barus voice sounded strangely far away.

 Chapter 80

    Distant past (1)

    From then on, nothing else happened in the stone tower where Chizuru and Baru were trapped until evening, and the sun began to set.

    The small, heavy wooden door was covered with iron ting which could not be broken by two people without tools. There seemed to be a few guards surrounding the area, as they roughly threw some tasteless food, simr to porridge, through a hole in the door that looked like a hidden window.

    When she protested that she needed to go to the bathroom, they just threw a rusty tin-like bowl at her through the same hole. And when she shamelessly told them that she was menstruating, they threw in a dirty, worn-out piece of cloth.

    Chizuru was fed up with it all and exhausted, but no matter how hard she tried, she could not fall asleep.

    Perhaps it was his quiet nature, but Baru, who seemed to be disappointed, did not make much of an attempt to converse. If Chizuru asked him a question, he would mumble a short but polite answer, and he would maintain a distance between him and Chizuru as much as possible in the small room.

    She wondered if he feared Lukrov that much.

    Or was he so fed up with all the trouble Chizuru has caused him that he didnt want to be around her anymore?

    Honestly, Chizuru didnt really care which reason he had.

    Every time she took a breath, the thought of Lukrov made her heart ache. Every time she blinked, an after-image of Lukrov would appear in her mind, and she would burst into tears.

    How could she get out of here?  If she did get out, how could she get back to Lukrov?

    Thats all she could think about.

    And when night fell, the same porridge was offered again, and Chizuru ate it. It was the only way to keep herself alive.

    She could hear the distant hooting of an owl, and the asional rustling of dead leaves struck her ears as if the guards were setting up a campfire outside.

    In the darkness, with the only source of light being the pale moonlight leaking in through the small window, Chizuru finally began to drift off and leaned her back against the wall, wrapping the dirty cloth she had been given around her shoulders.

    The dress was still the same one she had worn when she was kidnapped. It was a beautiful ck dress, tailored to match the Lukrovs g.

    It was already dirty, though.

    As she touched the embroidered sleeves with her fingers, Chizuru lowered her eyes and remembered the books she had borrowed from Mai before she returned here. Those books were a tale of fantasy, after all. In reality, if you wander into a medieval world, what awaits you was a cold reality. With no bath, no lights, and no decent food.

    Chizuru tried to stay as positive as she could, but it was hard to say she seeded.

    Surely by now, Lukrovs furious, faced with the fact that Chizuru and Baru had disappeared in his absence together. Chizuru was well aware of how Lukrov acted when he was really angry.

    I wonder if Arde will be okay? Would Nadal be in trouble?

    She was not sure how much help Roan could be, but she was hoping that he would be able to help calm Lukrov down a bit. The fact that Baru was Roans subordinate and had disappeared was hard to dismiss, and how long this fact could be hidden was a mystery.

    Once revealed, it might be like pouring oil on the fire.

    Chizuru was staring at the floor with her teeth clenched as crying here would be like admitting defeat.

    Its okay. Im sure Lukrov will believe in me.

    He will believe in me, and he will be searching for me.

    She told herself that over and over again and waited for the passage of time.

 Chapter 81

    Distant past (2)

    After I lost the match against Duke Lukrov

    Chizuru, who had begun to doze off, flinched at the sound of Barus voice.

    Baru stared at the rough floor, leaning his body against the opposite wall while keeping his distance from Chizuru. It was dark so she couldnt read his facial expressions.

    Duke Roan told me some of the past between you and Duke Lukrov. He was probably trying tofort me.

    Not knowing how to respond, Chizuru just stretched her back awkwardly.

    But Baru did not seem to be seeking Chizurus opinion in particr, and after a few moments of silence, he proceeded to speak.

    He said Duke Lukrov had been looking for you for quite a long time..

    Chizuru blinked in the darkness.

    .He was so desperate for you that he lost his reasonable judgment.

    Chizurus heart broke every time someone told her about the past fourteen years of Lukrovs life. Still, it had never been as painful as it was now. For Chizuru was now breaking the promise she had made to him in this lonely tower.

    However, Baru continued.

    The morning after the match, Duke Lukrov came to me and handed down a punishment. He told me that I was never to approach you again, and that I was not to carry any weapons during my stay.  I agreed to all of it, of course. I have no intention of breaking it even now.

    Barus voice, which had been calm, now rasped strangely.

    This might be a sign of his sincerity. Chizuru nodded her head in agreement.

    I was just curious, so I asked him. She only longs for you  and you clearly love her that much, why dont you confess?

    Chizuru could no longer keep silent and opened her mouth.

    So what did  Lukrov say?

    Do you want to know?

    Yyes.

    Perhaps . she hesitated because she was afraid to find out what he said.

    Even in the darkness, she could feel Baru exhaling briefly and smiling sadly.

    Duke Lukrov he said, I dont know what you heard from her, but if I still have a reason to live it would only be her.

    He never used any words like, I love her or I like her, but I felt like there was no other heartfelt deration of love like it.

    The tears she had put up with went straight down her cheeks.

    Lukrov, Lukrov, Lukrov.

    Fate had not been kind to them, but he worked tirelessly to make a future for them so that they could be together someday. Uncertain of whether they would be able to meet each other again, Lukrov never gave up for ten years  fourteen years, and now they could finally be together.

    His vision had finally be their reality.

    So

    Baru whispered softly and looked down again.

    He will never give up on you. I have no doubt that he is desperate to find you. He will not even consider thinking of me. He will definitelye to find you. So, please have patience, for a little while longer.

    Chizuru bit her lower lip tightly and nodded silently.

    Now, Chizuru could only trust him in this prison cell, so she decided to do her best.

    The next time she met him, she wanted to be able to hold herself proudly.

 Chapter 82

    That night, Chizuru had another dream from the past.

    The contrast between his jet-ck short hair and his neat, chiseled profile was sobeautifulthat she couldnt help but observe Lukurovs every move.

    Whether the feminine word beautiful could be applied to him or not remained a mystery.

    In modern Japan, she would call him cool, but this term was too light-hearted to describe the moment.

    It was interesting to get to know him. His behaviour changed with the situation, and he had that charm that she just couldnt describe with words. If she thought he was fierce, he suddenly became calm and collected. Although he was harsh and strict, he was also gentle.

    And Chizuru sat there unable to take her eyes off him.

    Didnt I tell you to keep an eye on the fire?

    Suddenly, Lukrovs low voice brought Chizuru back to reality.

    Before she knew it, Lukrov was looking at her with furrowed brows. Chizuru blushed. The branch shed been using to stoke the fire had fallen to her feet, so she bent down to pick it up.

    Im sorry

    I told you to stop apologizing so quickly, Chizuru.

    At that time, Chizuru and the others were camping by the stream of a small river deep in the mountains. It was night. They didnt have any watches, so she couldnt remember anything except that it waste at night. The surrounding area was filled with tents with pointed circr tops, and she just recently learned to ept this kind of outdoor camping and to not be picky about it.

    Everyone except for Chizuru and Lukrov should have been asleep by now.

    It was a quiet night, slightly cold but not to the point of freezing, and Chizuru was wearing a nket over thefortable shirt that she had borrowed from Edina.

    While Lukrov was

    He was wearing what was called an undergarment here. Loose, ankle-length linen pants and a white long-sleeved shirt of the same fabric.

    He waded into the river  the water level was just above his knees  and held a bow and arrow in one hand as he gazed into the water.

    What are you doing?

    Lukrov didnt answer Chizurus question.

    However, a momentter she heard a short but spirited Ha, and looking at him, he was thrusting the arrow that was in his hand into the water. With asshhhhhsound, the water sttered in all directions, and Lukrov lifted his arm up in a powerful motion.

    !?

    It was dark and so sudden that Chizuru had yet to process what had just happened.

    However, Lukrov made his way back while making a rustling sound with the arrow still held in his hands. His figure in the dark looked even more beautiful.

    He soon came right up to Chizurus side.

    Chizuru held the tree branch close to her bosom as if trying to suppress the sound of her crazy heartbeats. She looked at the tall knight who came and stood close to her.

    Since he was in his underwear, his strong, muscr body, which was usually hidden under his chainmail armor, was now bared to her, but

    Ah!

    She lowered her face in embarrassment, and at that moment something was tossed down in front of her

    It was a wet, slimy, ckthing. When Chizuru looked at it more closely, it turned out to be a fish, pping its tail and fins in a struggle.

    Chizuru forgot about the awkward moment and looked to him for an exnation.

    Eat, Lukrov instructed.

    What? Chizuru blinked a few times and looked back at the fish in front of her that made a small ssh sound, trying to resist the oxygen.

    Raw.

    Nani the fuck ? <tl: dont="" mind="" me="" she="" says="" uh?="" <="" p="">

    </tl:>

 Chapter 83

    Looking at her puzzled face, Lukrov began exining.

    I thought you said they eat fish raw in your country. Recently, all youve been eating is the meat of wild beasts, and youve been suffering from heartburn due to that.

    Then Lukrov sat downfortably next to Chizuru.

    This person was unbelievably big from Chizurus point of view, but every word and action he made was quiet and stealthy. There was a certain trained elegance and refinement about him that other knights did not have.

    Chizuru stared at the fish in amazement for a while, and then looked back at Lukrov fearfully.

    Lukrovs ck eyes were still glued on Chizuru.

    What did he expect from me? Did he expect me to thank him and then bite into the fish he caught?

    Lukrov!

    Chizuru raised her voice, unable to hold back herughter.

    Raw doesnt mean that we eat it alive! Its true that we eat it uncooked, but we dont just eat it like this!

    Chizuruughed and turned away to look up at the sky. Lukrovs serious face gradually began to loosen up.

    There was even a hint of a smile that could barely be seen at the corner of his mouth.

    The shadow of Lukrovs masculine figure in the orange light of the bonfire.

    The rivers rustling sound at night.

    The crescent moon hovering high in the sky.

    It was the first night she felt close to him.

    But thank you  for remembering.

    Chizuru muttered to herself, but Lukrov didnt move an inch. He didnt even blink. He just continued to stare at Chizuru.

    The fish was fresh, but Chizuru had no idea how to handle raw fish.

    In this other world where medical and hygiene knowledge was as limited as it was in the Middle Ages, Chizuru didnt dare to eat raw fish that she didnt even know the name of.

    In the end, the two of them roasted the fish over the fire, sprinkled a little salt that Lukrov had brought with him, and ate it together.

    Alone in the middle of the night with a tall, handsome knight in his wet underwear, eating around a campfire, sharing a single meal.

    It was impossible.

    It should have been impossible, but it was definitely real.

    If one observed them carefully, they would notice that Lukrov ate only the parts with many small bones that are difficult to eat first, and left the rest of the easy-to-eat meat for Chizuru.

    He was a gentleman by all means. She didnt know if such a notion existed in this world, but Lukrov was kind. He hid that kindness under his heavy iron armor, his frightening sword, and his stern expression.

    Chizuru couldnt help butugh.

    Why had fate brought her here in the first ce? When morning came, they would start another forced march in pursuit of the evil dragon. Somehow, Chizuru had to defeat that dragon. They say this is why Chizuru had been summoned from a different world.

    Why are you smiling?

    Lukrov suddenly asked. Chizuru shook her head and smiled.

    I dont know how I ended up in this situation. Im just a normal high school student who was taking an exam in Japan.

    The words Juken and Kokosei were not familiar to Lukrov and his friends. Lukrov furrowed his eyebrows a bit as if he was puzzled. But he soon schooled his expression into a serious one.

    What kind of life have you been living there?

    Yet another question.

    But the evening was quiet, the fire was warm, and Lukrov was blunt but kind, this sort of environment made her want to talk. Chizuru spoke up slowly, gathering her thoughts a bit.

    Kokosei is a high school student Ive been studying. I wanted to be a nursery school teacher or a kindergarten teacher in the future. As a result, I had to go to a difficult school called a university, and for that, I had to take a Juken which is an exam.

    Lukrov shifted his eyes to the fire and listened to her talking as he remained silent.

 Chapter 84

    Lukrov kept gazing at the campfire while Chizuru continued talking.

    My parents died in an ident when I was still young.

    The mes flickered.

    Lukrov did not move a muscle.

    But I had a grandmother on my fathers side. She raised me and was very, very kind to me. She may not have been financially well off, but I think she felt happy when she worked hard and was satisfied with her life.

    Chizuru felt a pain in her throat when she spoke about her grandmother as if something was stuck there.

    Grandmother.

    I wonder whats going on in the original world now that Ive been summoned here. Did they count me as a missing person? Maybe they treated me as dead?

    Until now, Chizuru had never left the house without her grandmothers permission or without letting her know where she went, not even for a single night.

    Just thinking about what her grandmother, Kazuyo must be going through or what she thought about her sudden disappearance for so long, was enough to make her heart tighten.

    Feeling the silence, she wanted to change the topic. She stared at Lukrov and asked.

    What about you, Lukrov? Do you have parents waiting for you in your hometown?

    A wife or lover?

    She was about to add that but stopped. For some reason, she didnt want to know his answer. When she imagined his kindness directed towards another woman, somewhere deep inside her, felt painful.

    My parents are dead.

    Lukrov answered shortly.

    His tone was so t that it had quite an impact. Chizuru gulped and waited for the continuation of the sentence.

    It was just before I turned nine years old. There was a local invasion, and they were both killed easily. My father hid me under the straw at the back of the barn, and I survived. The house where I grew up was burned to the ground and fell into ruins, nothing but rocks.

    Lukrovs father was a baron of a small estate in the countryside, with, in his words,a bit ofnd and a few dozen peasants,and was something of a local lord. Lukrov himself was the only child, and his parents had him in their rtivelyte years. He was naturally the legitimate son.

    I lived like a beggar for a couple of years after that. It was just a matter of staying alive, and then when I turned twelve years old, my physique had improved greatly, and I was able to be a knight.

    Luklov spoke casually, but even Chizuru, who had little knowledge of this world, could imagine how much effort it took for a boy who had lived like a beggar to be a knight.

    No, it was beyond her imagination.

    Lukrovs eyes were staring at the mes, but his mind seemed to be wandering somewhere into the distant past.

    He, who was now twenty-two years old, and the twelve-year-old boy from his past seemed to ovep.

    Hard-working, huh.

    Chizuru murmured unconsciously. Lukrov lifted the edge of his mouth sarcastically.

    Im just greedy.

    You say that now, but Im sure you had a tough time. You could have just given up.

    She wanted to say something moreforting, but her heart was too overwhelmed with feelings to do so. And she knew for sure words would not be enough.

    There was no way she could express the harshness of life.

    There was no way she could express her feelings too.

    Lukrov.

    When my father hid me in the straw

    Before she knew it, Lukrov was staring at her.

    It was hard to tell if he was staring at her, or if he was ring at her because his gaze was so serious. Chizuru couldnt look away and they kept staring at each other.

    When my father hid me in the straw, he said,Live. Just live.

    ..

    And just before he took his sword and went back to the house where the invaders were about to attack, he said,Well be gone soon. But dont give up. One day you will find someone you love, and you will be happy. Live!

    Chizuru didnt know why, but at that moment, Lukrov had a strangely calm and peaceful expression on his face.

 Chapter 85

    ns destruction (1)

    That night, she slept better than the night before, but when she woke up in the morning, she frowned because every part of her body was sore.

    She managed to get up and lean back against the stone wall and was about to take a breath when  she noticed something strange. A pressuring tension filled the small room.

    Baru, who stuck himself tightly to the door, whispered shhhhhhh as he pointed his finger at her lips.

    It seems that someone is approaching  no less than five or six people.

    In a low, controlled voice, Baru exined quickly.

    The vague feeling of having just woken up quickly disappeared. Chizuru straightened her posture and nodded.

    Someone is approaching.

    The first thing Chizuru expected was that Lukrov had found her and came to her rescue.

    The distant voices of people and the sound of horses steps, which the untrained Chizuru could not hear, were getting closer and closer. At a certain point, even Chizuru could hear them clearly. Chizurus heart was racing, but as the visitors approached, her hopes quickly vanished.

    Lukrovs voice was not among them.

    And thats not all. She could now hear the high-pitched, disgusting tone  of Exias voice ranting unhappily as if someone had scratched the strings of a violin poorly.

    Youre useless! You cant even attack one little girl!

    Chizuru froze on the spot. She looked over at Baru and saw that he was shrugging his shoulders in silence.

    In response to Exiasint, the guards were making excuses such as, But that man is here  and He knocked my teeth out, look.

    Chizuru stared at Baru.

    Baru shrugged again and whispered in a helpless whisper.

    It was while you were unconscious.

    Chizuru was ovee with surprise and gratitude, and she took a deep breath.

    When she had first woken up in this tower, Baru had looked very tired, and there were stains of blood on his clothes. He had been protecting Chizuru from the guards who had been ordered to attack her.

    They must have been beaten very badly, too, because since then  the guards have rarely approached Chizuru, except to throw food at her.

    Please dont worry.

    Baru said, making his voice slightly louder.

    I was supposed to rescue you from here and take you to Duke Lukrov.but a few people showed up, and it didnt go as nned.

    It was probably only seven oclock in the morning.

    The sun had already risen, leaving some gentle morning mist in the air that seems out of ce.

    Chizuru wanted to thank Baru for his kindness, but she knew that now was not the right time to do so, as the sound of Exias loud voice was approaching the front of the door.

    Open the door now! Oh, you imbeciles! What a filthy ce!

    Chizuru frowned at the sound of Exias voice as she cursed at her subordinates.

    Chizuru was the one who had been kidnapped and held in a disgusting and filthy prison after falling for a devious scheme. Exia was one of the main culprits, and while she should be proud of her victory, she was irritablyshing out at the people around her.

    She felt like something was wrong.

    The door opened with a cracking sound, and Chizuru squinted at the harsh sunlight that she hadnt seen for several days. Exias dark shadow contrasted with the morning sun, blocking the entrance.

    Behind her were several men who looked like her subordinates.

    This little girl .

    Exia cursed irritably, then lifted the hem of her dress and shamelessly walked into the prison.

 Chapter 86

    ns destruction (2)

    When Exia approached, Chizuru instantly knew she was Exias target, so she quickly got up to fight back. However, Exias p caught her by surprise.

    There was a harsh, loud thud before Chizuru was mmed back against the stone wall.

    Her cheek ached from the blow.

    You damn woman! Youve ruined all my ns! Its this witchs fault!

    Exia was usually always dressed up, but today she was wearing a rtively simple x colored dress.

    Her hair was dishevelled, and the elegance of her appearance at Lukrovs castle was gone. In its ce, there was a hysterical woman who was repulsive to ones eyes. Of course, Chizuru was not in the best shape either after spending a few days in this prison.

    In order to keep herposure, Chizuru held her bruised cheek with one hand and stood back up.

    Youre the one who kidnapped us and brought us here, arent you?

    Exia snorted.

    What are you going to do about it?

    She then stretched out her neck and approached Chizuru.

    I should have killed you as fast as I could. But my father insisted that we could use you as a hostage. What a joke!

    Chizuru should have said something back, but she was at a loss for words, and she felt suffocated.

    ording to what Exia said, did that mean that Chizuru could no longer be used as a hostage . Did that mean Lukrov had given up on Chizuru? Was that even possible?

    Dont cry,Chizuru told herself.

    Believe in him.

    If your purpose was to get Lukrovs territory, he has nothing to do with it. Just let him go. Chizuru gestured at Baru.

    Baru, who was standing right next to the door, suddenly stiffened.

    It was clear that Baru was ready to strike, mercilessly, if anyone tried to do anything to Chizuru. His chivalrous spirit was admirable, but it was also dangerous for him.

    Exias thin lips formed an uncanny smile.

    He didnt seem to want you even when we threw you in this small tiny cell. You really are an ugly, unattractive woman. Thats exactly what you are.

    Even without Exias statement, Chizuru already knew she wasnt as beautiful or attractive as Exia.

    But Chizuru was sure that this was an attempt to provoke her. If Chizuru let herself be swayed by anger, she would be walking right into Exias trap.

    Chizurus reaction wasnt as interesting as Exia expected.

    Oh! What is that?! I dont like it. Why arent you crying and begging for your life? Do you think Ill give you back to Duke Lukrovter?

    A cold chill ran down Chizurus spine.

    In this world without proper, establishedws, it should be amon urrence for a woman to be discarded in a power struggle. It was no surprise that Chizuru had be one of them. It may be that the fact that she was still alive until now was more unusual.

    But Baru has nothing to do with this. Hes Roans knight. You would be turning Roan into an enemy as well. Do you want that?

    Chizuru looked at Exia as she spoke while controlling her fear as much as possible.

    It was clear that Chizuru was trying to get back at her, just like a cat biting anyone who reached out to touch it. However, Exias reaction was unexpected. She was as upset as if her dress was set on fire and began to stomp the ground in anger.

    Its toote! Its toote now!

    When Exia yelled, not only Chizuru and Baru, even the subordinates she had brought with her, could not help but be dumbfounded by her actions. Exia gripped the hem of her dress even more forcefully and gritted her teeth as she came at Chizuru.

    Your fianc.

    Exia began to speak with a slow, cold voice that was filled with a grudge.

    Duke Lukrov As soon as he found out that you were missing, he marched into my fathers castle. He was so powerful that he would have frightened a horde of demons. As soon as my father mentioned your name in an attempt to negotiate, he had his head chopped off in a matter of seconds.

    Exias lips turned into a bloody purple color.

    Chizuru was speechless and stared nkly at Exia, whose eyes were bloodshot as if she had lost her mind.

    He chopped off his head! Ah, that madman!

    Exia began to wail and buried her face in her hands. Chizuru, who had been staring at Exias sobs in disbelief, nced at Baru a little whileter. Baru nodded toward Chizuru with a serious look on his face.

    Can they run away?

    But more than a few guards were escorting Exia outside. Baru was unarmed, hadnt eaten much in a couple of days, and had the burden of Chizuru with him. Even if they wanted to escape, Baru was a knight of Roans territory and probably hardly knew the area. The chances of winning were sadly slim.

    But if youre a . theres no reason for you to keep us captive any longer.

    Wanting to stall for time, Chizuru said to Exia.

    But Exia didnt seem to hear anything. She continued to sob in the same position for a while, then suddenly straightened her back and raised her face, which was wet with tears.

    Chizuru gulped.

    Because Exias eyes were so brutally cloudy that it was hard to believe they were of this world.

    My father is dead.

    She had a bad feeling about this.

    Exias voice, which seemed already disconnected from the surrounding reality, sounded eerily like an oracle from some faraway world.

    At the same time, Baru also felt his body stiffen.

    It is a miracle that I have been able to escape to this ce. Oh, well, I guess the heavens are a little bit on my side. Right?

    There was no answer, so Chizuru kept quiet and held her breath. Sweat beads slowly formed on her face from the tension. Maybe it would have been less scary if she had just yelled at her.

    Exia smiled, looking like a child.

    Duke Lukrov will kill me without a moments mercy, But you know, there are things I can do. She said.

    Chizuru prayed to God that Exia would suddenly change her mind. Even though she knew it was a meaningless prayer, she couldnt help it.

    To take you with me, or your crazy fianc. You can choose. Which would you prefer?

 Chapter 87

    When she looked away from Exias face in astonishment, Chizuru saw several knights standing behind Exia guarding her.

    Could she call them knights? Judging from their disheveled clothing and the weapons in their hands, these men looked more like a group of ruffians. No matter how she looked at them, she couldnt see a trace of sincerity in them for men of chivalry.

    So what are you going to do with us?

    Chizuru asked a question she didnt even want to know the answer to with a trembling voice.

    Well, what should I do?

    Exia replied, her expression suddenly glowing with a winning smile.

    However, Exia didnt look as if she was in any doubt.

    Hmmm, I could just kill you here and give him your corpse. But that wouldnt be very entertaining, would it? I still want him to see you die in front of his eyes. And preferably while suffering.

    Her expression was a mixture of innocence and ecstasy, like a child savoring an afternoon candy.

    Exia must have lost her mind after all. There were plenty of reasons for that to be the case.

    Then a man, who was clothed all in ck and had a very sharp look in his eyes, stepped forward from behind Exia.

    It might have been the man who attacked Chizuru and Baru back at the castle. He looked vaguely familiar.

    If thats the case, hes a very skilled fighter,Chizuru thought to herself.

    The man in ck faintly whispered something to Exia.

    Exias eyes sparkled, and she nodded her head twice.

    Thats a good idea.

    The nobledys blue eyes, clouded with cruelty and ruthlessness, were fixed on Chizuru.

    A smile adorned her thin lips as she imagined something, and it seemed as though she was deeply satisfied with her imagination.

    Thats a good idea.

    Exia repeated. A sudden chill ran down Chizurus spine as if there was a block of ice sliding down her spine.

    You choose! Will you save Duke Lukrovs life or your own?

    Exia approached slowly and quietly and hissed her cruel n in Chizurus ear so that Baru could not hear it.

    Drowned in her own thoughts, her answer was clear as day, yet her mind went off remembering him

    When I close my eyes and listen carefully, I feel that I can hear your voice even though I am in this distant and lonely prison.

    The happiness we shared together.

    The hardships we endured together.

    The future we promised each other from the bottom of our hearts.

    I can clearly feel your strong arms around me.

    I vividly remember every moment I spend with you, no matter how trivial it might have been

    The answer was clear.

    There was no hesitation in Chizurus mind.

    However, when she thought of the suffering it would bring him, her heart ached as though it were being torn apart.

 Chapter 88

    The forest was dark and humid.

    After walking for about two hours with their hands tied to a greasy rope and being pulled by horses, Chizuru and Exias small group were finally facing Lukrovs army of knights.

    She wasnt sure if this was the ce designated beforehand or if they just crossed paths on their way to each other.

    Forced to march, Chizuru was unable to think of anything other than moving her feet forward.

    Baru, her only hope, was tied to the rope even tighter than she was, and was even gagged, so he wouldnt even have a chance to resist.

    The winner of the battle was obvious.

    The sight of an army with a dignified appearance, who seemed confident that they were going to win the war, confronting a remnant group of ruffians led by Exia was beyond insane.

    Chizurus throat was dry and sore, and she wished that this moment would nevere.

    Surrounded by the dirty sweat of the men and the wild smell of the horses, Chizuru prayed that time would stop.

    She prayed that the decisive moment that Exia was nning would note forever. However, the more impatient she became, the more time passed like a running stream.

    The next thing she knew, Lukrov was right in front of her.

    I had wished so desperately to return to him,but now its agonizingly painful.

    Ah, Lukrov.

    I have to protect him somehow, no matter the cost.

    Chizuru looked around, looking for that sharp-eyed man in ck clothing, but she couldnt find him. That was a bad sign. The man must be hiding somewhere in the bushes of the forest.

    He was holding an arrow aimed at Lukrovs heart.

    The only way to save him was for her to use her body as a shield.

    It had only been a few days, but the chain mail had made Lukrovs tall body look a little thinner. His short ck hair appeared to have not beenbed in days and looked wild and disheveled, but in fact, it gave him the appearance of a wild lion.

    He carried a sword but was not wearing armor.

    In other words, Lukrov prioritized mobility over his own safety. He wanted to get Chizuru back as fast as possible.

    But that would not be enough to prevent the arrow from aiming for his life.

    Good day, Duke Lukrov! Is this what youre looking for?

    Exias dramatic voice broke through the silence of the two armies as she leaped to the front.

    Both sides horses were stamping their feet on the spot, snorting wildly. Harnesses and weapons jingled and rattled, making a shing sound, but no one spoke except Exia.

    Please take a look at this woman. She had an affair with this knight and was trying to elope with him! We happened to find them by ident and captured them. You cut off my fathers head over aplete misunderstanding.

    Chizuru, who was standing next to Exia, was pushed forward as if telling her to exin herself if she could.

    Baru, who was being held at a distance, was gagged and unable to utter a word, but Chizuru was free except for her hands which were tied. She could scream at the top of her voice and say that it was a lie.

    But.

    But, surely, if she did that, Lukrovs life would be in danger.

    That man dressed in ck had trained an arrow on Lukrov from somewhere. Usually, Lukrov would never show such carelessness around his enemies. But now, he looked way too vulnerable.

    His eyes stared at Chizuru as if they were drowning.

    His hands gripped the reins so tightly that his knuckles turned white, and there were some visible scratches on his cheeks.

    Please, please, just believe Exias lie.

    Just dismiss me as a traitorous woman, and get out of this ce. Then forget about me and be happy.

    Although she knew it was impossible, Chizuru couldnt help but wish for such a miracle to happen.

    Why dont you try to say something, you slutty whore?

 Chapter 89

    TL: Le

    Editor: QianMin

    Proofread: Karen

    When Chizuru came to her senses, Exia had grabbed her by her cor before she knew it. As her neck was forced back, a cough escaped her throat.

    As Exia brought her lips to Chizurus ear and whispered, her warm breath hit Chizurus ears.

    That man is up in that big oak tree to your right. You know what will happen if you try anything stupid, dont you?

    Indeed, there was arge, dense tree on the right.

    Lukrov didnt move an inch and kept his eyes trained on Chizuru quietly.

    There was an army behind him, it might not be arge army, but it wasrge enough. Compared to Exias ruffian army, they probably were in a far more advantageous position but whether they were skilled enough to defeat the other army in a blink of an eye was a mystery.

    In other words, if it turned into a battle, they would win. But it would take some time.

    Tears began to gather in Chizurus eyes.

    Its true, Lukrov.

    Somehow, she managed a slight smile and was able to speak in a low voice.

    I Im tired of youIve had enough.Hes far younger and more refreshing. I beg you, just leave us alone and go marry Lady Exia .

    Chizuru would never forget the expression on Lukrovs face at that moment.

    He looked pained and heartbroken.

    But at the same time, there was a gentle smile adorning his beautiful face as if to show some form of understanding. Not anger or sadness. It was just an overwhelming affection andpassion towards Chizuru.

    Chizuru felt like their two souls had merged into one.

    Of all the possible situations, it was at such a time. Chizuru had to hurt him with such a lie, where fate would tear them apart, and they would never be happy again.

    Its true this time.

    Chizuru added.

    Lukrov nodded and quickly reached for the sword behind him.

    The sound of horse hooves pulsed through the forest and seemingly shook the earth,and men with swords rushed forward, shouting battle cries. The sky seemed as if it was going farther, and the earth was vibrating as if it was ripping apart.

    To Chizurus eyes, everything seemed to be happening in slow motion.

    With her hands tied, it was difficult for her to run as she was attempting to navigate her way through the battle chaos.

    On her right, a horse had fallen on its side, and the impact almost blew her away. Despite this, Chizuru desperately regained her footing and continued to run.

    Lukrov.

    Even amid all the chaos, it was easy to find him.

    She could feel him.

    And she thought she could sense that he was in danger.

    Lukrov wielded a reddish-ck, long sword, now soaked in blood, and was ughtering his enemies on horseback.

    The mens eyes were glowing oddly, and they were screaming eerily like ghosts crawling up from the depths of hell.

    Lukrov!

    Chizuru shouted, and Lukrov turned his head toward her.

    And then he did what no knight should ever do in his life.

    He let go of his sword. In the midst of the fierce battle, the sound of his sword falling to the ground was absorbed and lost among the chaos.

    He stretched out his arms, and as if gathering up the scattered sand, he lifted Chizuru up on his horse and pulled her tightly into his arms.

    Chizuru

    Lukrovs muffled voice tickled Chizurus ears.

    If her hands were free, she would have hugged him back. But all she could do was look up at him and snuggle up to him.

    She wished that time would stop here, just like this.

    When Chizuru looked up, she could see a hint of tears forming in the corners of his tightly closed eyes.

    Ah, Lukrov, its Lukrov.

    Chizuru also wanted to close her eyes and engrave this moment deep in her heart.

    But then, from the corner of her eye, she saw a blinding sh of light and saw an arrow shoot in a straight line toward theming from therge oak tree on her right.

    The very same direction that Exia had warned her about.

    At this moment, there was only one thing that Chizuru could do.

 Chapter 90

    TL: Le

    Editor: QianMin

    Proofread: Karen

    Lukrov  Fourteen Years Ago

    Lukrov had always thought that if the world  let alone a country  was destined to perish, it would be fine with him as he didnt have any attachments to this life.

    A few years ago, an evil dragon suddenly appeared in the sky and began to wreak havoc, burning hundreds of viges and brutally devouring thousands of people.

    The people were horrified and forced to live in fear.

    So what?

    Why do they care so much?

    Ever since he lost his parents more than fifteen years ago, Lukrovs life was already built on shivers, fear, and loneliness.

    Every day was a battle for survival, and there was never a moment when he could feel at ease. Even now that he was the head of an army assigned to defeat the evil dragon, it remained the same.

    The only reason Lukrov persevered to live on was because he wanted to repay his parents for risking their lives to save him.

    There was no other reason to live, not even one.

    Not even one.

    There was none.

    One dawn at the beginning of winter, the cold morning dew was moistening the area.

    Oh, Chizuru, you will ride my horse this morning, wont you? Ill hold you gently from behind and whisper love songs to you all day long. Youll melt and fall in love with me!

    As I came out of the camping tent, I frowned as I saw the big red-haired man wandering around Chizuru, delivering an exaggerated speech.

    Even though it was early in the morning, the sun had already risen in the sky.

    While I was already perfectly dressed and ready to go, the big red-haired man  was still lightly dressed in just a tunic and pants.

    As the head of a force that defeated evil dragons, Roan was a constant headache for me. He was frivolous, noisy, self-conscious, and  skilled, but all he did all day was seduce the shrine maiden, Chizuru.

    He was an utterly disgusting man.

    But if I ride with you, Ill get in your way. Im not used to it yet Lukrov always gets angry with me.

    Chizuru shrugged her shoulders as she looked up at Roan.

    Lukrov-dono, huh

    It seemed that neither of them had noticed my presence yet. At least Chizuru probably had not noticed. As for Roan, well, it was a mystery.

    Hes a little crazy, you know. How can he ride with a pretty girl like you and just lecture you all the time? Dont worry about it, Chizuru. You can start riding my horse today. Ill be happy, and you definitely wont be a burden.

    But, but .

    Chizuru was hesitant, but I could see that Roans suggestion somewhat flustered her.

    Chizuru was a burden to me?

    Me? Always angry?

    Since Chizurus arrival in the world  and it hadnt been that long  I began to feel more at ease with her by my side.

    Chizuru rode on my horse and walked next to me. Additionally, even if I didnt reply much, she continued to talk about this and thather words would tickle my ears.

    Her jewel-like eyes were always looking up at me, and she would amuse me with her gentle smiles, her giggles, her sulks, and her anger.

    It was like an addictive aphrodisiac that slowly but surely prated my whole body.

    And like many addictions, I found myself unable to live without it.

    That was exactly what Chizuru was.

    My addiction.

    She was a very important person that I needed to have in my  life.

 Chapter 91

    Lukrov  Fourteen Years Ago

    I made a noise on purpose, and when I got out of the tent, I cleared my throat.

    Chizuru turned around as if she was shocked to see me standing in front of the tent. I could tell that I had a strange expression on my face, as did she, a look of both relief and confusion drawn on her face.

    Roan looked back over her shoulder at me and smirked.

    Damn, this is why I hate this guy.

    So, as of today, Chizuru will be riding my horse. Youll be d to know that you no longer have to be bothered any longer, wont you? Roan questioned.

    I didnt answer.

    At least, not in words.

    Right, Chizuru? He asked for her confirmation.

    Roan, dexterously bending over his upper body, looked at Chizuru and was about to take her hand.

    My body moved faster than my mind could think and reacted out of instinct.

    With the speed of light, I threw a dagger that had been around my waist. The dagger brushed over the tip of Roans nose and continued its way until it stabbed into the trunk of arge tree behind him.

    A small bird hurriedly flew away from the tree branch at the sudden impact.

    There was a moment of silence.

    Youre insane, Lukrov! What if it hit Chizuru? Roan yelled.

    For the moment, I should probably appreciate the fact that he was more concerned about Chizurus safety than his own. However, I was not ready to forgive him just yet.

    I made my way with a wide stride and stood in front of Chizuru.

    Lu-Lukrovthat.

    I took Chizurus confused hand, pulled her away from Roan, and walked away at a rapid pace.

    I can hear Roanining from behind me.

    However, I cant bring myself to listen to it.

    Wait! Youre going too fast Lukrov!

    As soon as we passed through the campsite and reached the empty forest, Chizuru began pleading with me while gasping for air.

    The girl, who I made run so suddenly, had rosy red cheeks that puffed out, making her look out of breath. Her chest was rising and falling in anguish. I finally came to my senses and stopped when I saw her state.

    Sorry

    Uh, yeah  its fine, but

    Chizuru stared up at me as if seeking an exnation with one hand on her chest as she struggled to catch her breath.

    What is the exnation for my actions?

    I couldnt stand the sight of Chizuru riding another mans horse, and I didnt like the idea of her leaving my side, not even for a moment.

    The reason behind these feelings?

    I dont care to know.

    The reason behind my actions was right in front of me

    But Chizuru wanted an answer The fact was, I was willing to grant this girl whatever she wished. I just didnt know how to phrase it for her.

    I didnt mean to be angry with you, and Ive never thought of you as a burden.

    Chizurus eyes blinked several times at what I said suddenly.

    Then I added, I wasnt lecturing you, I just want you to stay safe. Ive given you some advice because of that. But I dont remember getting angry.

    Chizuru finally seemed to realize what I was talking about.

    Ah, um

    She mumbled some random words and started fiddling with her cor with her free hand.

    That isnt what I meant that  I still want to ride Lukrovs horse.

    I wasnt the type to pick on every word I hear, but the phraseLukrovs horsecaught my attention. Did she want to rideon my horseor did she want to ridewith me?

    What is this? Am I getting jealous of the horse now?

    The horse!?

    Chizuru looked a little frightened, wondering how she managed to put a strained and sullen expression on my face.

    Because I like to be near Lukrov if you arent bothered by it. Earlier it was just Roan messing around, and Im

    I stared down at her as she was trying to give me some form of exnation.

    I was still holding her hand.

    I dont want to let go.

    Im not going to let go.

    Ride with me, okay? You dont have to switch horses all the time. Ill take care of you.

    When I said that, I could see her face hold a mixture of joy and pain.

    Now I think I understood the reason

    It was just that at the time, I was not yet ready to open my heart to someone, to love someone, to dere my love to the world. These were foreign to me.

    But spring came at the end of a long winter.

    Chizuru.

    She was the wind of hope that woke me up from my nightmare and soothed me, little by little, patiently and gently.

 Chapter 92

    Lukrov  A few monthster

    It was raining that night.

    If he recalled correctly, it began to rain early in the afternoon, and it was a heavy downpour that didnt stop until the end of the day.

    After taking lodging in a quiet inn, Lukrov slowly lowered Chizuru to the floor in front of the firece and carefully started to remove the damp cloak that had been wrapping her.

    The gray cloak was soaked with rain, and her slender, trembling frame was revealed once he took it off. Her clothes and hair were wet as though they had been soaked in rainwater, and she glistened delicately in front of the firece.

    Dont tremble. Lukrov softly whispered into Chizurus ear.

    Chizurus body quivered as if she had been caressed.

    I-its cold

    She sounded nervous, like a child whod been caught doing something wrong and was looking for an excuse.

    Normally, he would have said something moreforting and reassuring. But Lukrov found Chizurus shyness so cute that he felt like teasing her a little more.

    Thats not right, its quite hot here

    Lukrov traced Chizurus chest with his lips.

    When his lips, driven by lust, reached her perky nipple, he stuck out his tongue to stimte it through the fabric.

    Ah! Ahn L-Lukrov..!

    Chizuru melted under his caress immediately.

    But she hadnt let go of herst sense of shame, and she resisted the pleasure, clinging tightly to Lukrovs arms. He bit the top of her breast and fondled the other breast with his fingers.

    Aah! ahah

    Her head tilted back, and she began to tremble. Lukrov continued to attack his beloved girl even more.

    Here, too. Lukrov added huskily.

    Ahh!

    As he released the grip of her breasts, he slid his hand between Chizurus legs. Lukrov carefully explored her private region.

    Chizurus eyes widened in surprise. The anticipation and anxiety of an unknown act seemed to overflow within her.

    A secret, sweet scent filled the air.

    As blood rushed from Lukrovs brain to his manhood, he began to lose his rationality and could only think of burying himself deep inside her and bing one with her. He felt as though he could explode at any moment.

    Ahhhhhhhhhhhh!

    When he attacked her petals with his fingers, the sensitive, virgin area slowly overflowed with nectar. Chizuru trembled slightly and finally let out her embarrassment and moaned in a louder voice.

    Lukrov had to clench his teeth to endure his growing bulge.

    The sweat of a man and woman were mixed and became one.

    Even if one of them was from another world, their feelings for each other were stronger than any of those who were in a normal situation.

    Now, Lukrov took Chizuru away, and Chizuru epted Lukrovpletely.

    A faint tear showed up in Chizurus eyes. Chizuru began tearing up.

    Areare you fine  with me?

    Chizuru whispered in a sad, fading voice.

    Lukrov looked up slightly, sweat forming on his forehead as he repeatedly took hot, ragged breaths.

    What was this girl talking about? It took some time for him to even wonder about that.

    All of his blood was already concentrated in his lower half, and Chizurus question seemed ridiculous.

    It was not that Chizuru wasfine.

    Ithadto be Chizuru.

    If she asked, Lukrovwould be willing to plead with his head against the ground.

    I choose you.

    Lukrov said with a hot breath.

    He had always believed that words were vague, incapable of urately expressing real emotions.

    But now, no words could be closer to the truth.

    Lukrov chose Chizuru.

    His whole being belonged to Chizuru, loved her, and needed her presence.

    Lukrovs patience finally reached its limit as Chizuru let out a small, tearful nod.

    In an instant, he tore off her clothes and took off the chain mail and clothes he was wearing, leaving both of them naked.

    The mes of the firece danced, illuminating both of their bodies in glowing red.

    The floor made a creaking, dry sound as Lukrov loomed over Chizuru.He lifted her upper body as much as possible andid a cloth underneath to avoid hurting her back.

    The two of themid together and stared at each other for a while.

    Am I  scaring you?

 Chapter 93

    Am I  scaring you?

    At that time, Lukrov and his team had just finished a bloody fight to the death to capture an evil dragon that suddenly appeared in the sky.

    In the end, however, they were unable to defeat the evil dragon and lost one junior knight.

    They were separated from Roan and the others, who had gone their separate way for a different attack, and only the two of them made it to this deserted house.

    As usual, after a battle, Lukrov was wildly agitated and upset.

    He knew clearly how frightening he looked in those moments. It was just that Chizurus presence around him gave him a sense of rxation.

    Chizuru reached out with her hand and ced it on Lukrovs cheek. The cool, me-melting touch gently stroked Lukrovs face.

    No.

    Chizuru quietly denied.

    Ive never been afraid of Lukrov. Never! she said.

    Its just that Im  nervous  its my first time  and Im not sure what to do.

    Chizuru tried to soothe the anger and sadness smoldering in Lukrovs chest by offering herself to him.

    Even if this was not the only reason, they had already confirmed their feelings for each other, and the fact that tonight would be their first night together was nothing more than a token of Chizurus unconditional love.

    It wouldnt be a gentle act.

    Lukrov would devour Chizuru. Nevertheless, he was arge manpared to the small, delicate woman Chizuru whose body was epting a man for the first time.

    Even with herck of experience, she knew that what Lukrov was about to do would be quite painful.

    He didnt want to sugarcoat his words.

    Its going to hurt  just keep biting my shoulder.

    The only thing Lukrov could do for Chizuru was to wet the entrance with caresses in order to make it a little less painful.

    He gently stroked up her entrance to make sure it was wet and moist.

    Chizuru smiled and nodded her head.

    Within seconds, she felt as if the world was copsing, and her head turned nk.

    Lukrov clenched his teeth and buried himself inside Chizuru, prating her. A hot, intense feeling of pleasure ran through his entire body, taking his breath away.

    The ce where she hadnt known a man yet was tight.

    As he continued to prate deeper and deeper, Lukrov finally reached Chizurus hymen.

    Chizurus face was clearly in pain. Instead of focusing on his own pleasure, he needed to relieve Chizuru as soon as possible.

    Ah  ah!

    As he broke thest barrier, Chizuru arched her back and shuddered.

    At the same time, the tightness around his manhood tightened even more, and Lukrov couldnt take it any longer. Driven by instinct, he prated Chizuru harder and faster.

    Pleasure and pain; love and frustration; past and future. All of it ovepped and melted between the two.

 Chapter 94

    Even after their lovemaking waplete,Lukrov continued to run his fingers over Chizurus body in front of the fire.He wouldasionallyadda mischievous caressand enjoyher reaction.

    Honestly, Lukrovs manhoodwas notsatisfied yet. However, he could not force himself onto Chizurus body, which wasaching as it was herfirst experience. Additionally, theidon the floor, which must have been difficult for Chizuru, who was trapped underneath him.

    Im going to hold you in a more decent ce next time.

    Lukrovmuttered as he kissed her bare shoulder and continued.

    I cant bear to hurt your body.

    Chizuru giggled and reached out with one hand tostrokeLukrovs hair.

    If Im with you, I dont care where we go.

    Damn! As long as this evil dragon fiasco is going on, it will be difficult for us to find a decent ce. Well have to kill that thing quickly, cut it into pieces, and roast it for dinner.

    Perhaps Chizuru thought that he was joking. Sheughed and yed withLukrovshair, but then she fell silent for a while.

    If we defeat this evil dragon and  bring peace, willLukrovsrolee to an end?

    Comes to an end?

    Lukrov asked back loosely.

    You see, once the evil dragon is defeated, Lukrovs job as Knight Commander will be over, right? There will be no point in me staying here either, so Im wondering whats going to happen

    Therewereseveral ranks of knights, and therewereseveral types of knights.

    There were a few aristocratic knights who would or had inherited territories like Roan. Most of them served for one task at a time, a lord of a domain orthey servedthe king directly, so to speak,they werein a position no different from mercenaries.

    Of course, Lukrov belonged to this category as well.However,he was chosen as thmanderonly because he was a bit more skilled. His life would change once and for all whenever this role was over.

    Lukrov exined that to Chizuru.

    The king said hed give me a territory if I seeded in this job, probably a small territory somewhere in the countryside that would be neither harmful nor useful to him.

    But even so, the offer was generous enough,and Lukrov was grateful for it.

    Lukrov had no greed or appetite for advancement in social ranks. If he could devote his life to ruling a small territory, as his father had once done, that would be enough for him.

    And as long as Chizuruwasnext to him, that would be more than enough.

    I will build a castle for you.

    As he spoke, Lukrov traced his lips down Chizurus neck.

    Ill prepare a bed where I can hold you properly and a room as well. Not here in front of the firece in someone elses house

    Someday, such a day woulde, and they would be together forever as one.

    Lukrov will take Chizuru as his wife, and Chizuru willbear himsome children. And when the timees, they will fall into an eternal sleep together, side by side, on a hill somewhere.

    They dreamed that such a day woulde.

 Chapter 95

    Arde  Present

    There had never been a time when Lukrovs castlewas filled with such anxiety.

    Many of the servants were restlessly gathering in the hall, whispering to each other with worried expressions.

    Some of it was mindless gossip,andsome of it was concern about the whereabouts of Lukrov and the other knights who had gone to war.

    Work was hardly done, as everyone looked absent-minded and restless.

    Arde was one of them.

    And thats not all.

    Unlike the other servants, Arde knew too much. She also carried a heavy responsibility in her heart for leaving Chizuru alone that afternoon.

    The castle, without its master, was like a sad, empty box. It was quiet and gloomy.

    Mother, I wonder if Chizuru-sama will be back soon. We promised to y outside together when the weather clears up.

    Noah, her only daughter, asked Arde with pleading eyes. Even though shewasvery young, sheseemedto have sensed impatience in the castle andwasmore considerate than usual.

    Yes  they will be here soon. Im sure that Lukrov-sama has gone to pick her up, and shell be back safely soon.

    As she hugged her daughter,Ardemurmured softly, keeping her eyes down.

    But Arde knew.

    She knew some of it, if not all of it.

    Fourteen years ago, Lukrovs grief after Chizuru disappeared.

    Four years ago, he had given up the search for Chizuru and had be an empty shell,pletely drained of emotion.

    A little over a month ago,after Chizuru returned to him, he slowly came back to life, gradually breaking through his stubborn shell and showing a happy smile.

    Four days ago, when Lukrov found out that Chizuru had gone missing, his reaction was devastating.

    He was furious like a demon and immediately marched to Count Kaftors mansion with his army, without listening to anyones advice.

    Roan was forced to go along with him in a hurry while spitting curses.

    They still havent returned since.

    All Arde could do was to imagine And pray.

    Both of the acts were suffocatingly frustrating.

    The food hardly went down her throat. Still, Arde did not neglect to keep Chizurus room as clean and tidy as usual, hoping that Lukrov would retrieve her safely and return soon.

    With the disappearance of Chizuru,along withthe disappearance of Baru, the young knight that Roan had brought with him, some people had made insensitive spections, but Lukrov ignored all of them. Even Arde knew that this was impossible.

    ***

    As Arde swept the floor of Chizurus room, she looked up asshe swallowed hard to keep the tears from forming in her eyes.

    In the early days of the castle, there were times whenLukrovwould stand in the middle of this room, staring quietly into space with unfocused eyes.

    That didnt happen once or twice

    She was reluctant to ask the question out loud, but Arde knew.

    This room belongs to Chizuru-sama, doesnt it?

    You are still dreaming of hering back to you, arent you?

    Chizuru must have been the reason why Lukrov had continued to hireArdein the first ce and had given her such special treatment thatwasunusual for a mere maid.

    Arde fell into silence and prayed to the heavens that they would not cause Lukrov any more suffering.

    Later that night, the entrance to the castle suddenly became crowded and noisy.

    As Arde wasassisting with theclean up after dinner in the dining room, Nadal, breathless and flushed, came running up to herwhiledragging his feet.

 Chapter 96

    Arde  Present

    Later that night, the entrance to the castle suddenly became crowded and noisy.

    As Arde wasassisting with theclean up after dinner in the dining room, Nadal, breathless and flushed, came running up to herwhiledragging his feet.

    Lukrov-sama ising back  Lukrov-sama! Chizuru-sama is with him! The messenger has just arrived. Quickly, quickly  prepare a room!

    Is that true!

    Arde screamed with joy, but her excitement quickly faded and was recedwithanxiety.

    Chizuru-samas room is ready as usual . What is there to prepare for?

    Nadal looked panicked and quite confused. Heshookhis head andstruggledto figure out what to say first.

    After a few moments of catching his breath, he began to exin in short sentences.

    Im still not sure about  it either. But the messenger said that Chizuru-sama was injured. We need a doctor, a cloth, and hot water..

    Arde could feel her face going pale.

    Without waiting forArdesreply, Nadal continued.

    It seems that the messenger came in quite a hurry. The moment he arrived, his horse copsed. But even so, he said, Lukrov-sama is right behind him

    Nadals face twisted like a babys before he dropped to his knees and started to cry.

    Originally, Nadal was an orphan that Lukrov had picked up from a nearby vige when he came to the castle. Since then, Lukrov has taken care of Nadal as if he was his own nephew, and Nadalhadlooked upto Lukrovand lovedhimas if he was his father.

    Heaimedto be a great knight like Lukrov, and he had never cried in public, at least not since he became a servant.

    However,nowhis shoulders were shaking as he tried to holdback his tears.

    Stand up, Nadal.

    Arde was barely able to keep her voice from trembling.

    If Lukrov-sama is with her, Im sure shesfine. Go and get the doctor quickly! Ill take care of the rest.

    Nadal raised his head and straightened his spine.

    The boys eyes were still shaking with confusion, but he remembered his mission and slowly regained his senses.

    He replied with a faint voice,Yes, rose to his feet and unsteadily walked out of the dining room.

    Arde looked up and straightened her trembling back.

    The fellow maid next to her was staring at Arde in a daze, her mouth hanging open as if she wanted to say something.

    You heard him,e and help me.

    The maid shook her head in silence and ran off to the kitchen.

    Everything will be fine,Ardetold herself.

    It will be fine.

    Because it has to be

    Soon after, before the water began to boil, the area around the gatesstartedto buzz withmotion, and Arde ran out the back door, holding the clean clothes she had gathered to her chest.

    The gate, which was usually closed and heavily guarded by knights, was filled with a confused crowd.

    Even from a distance, she could see that every face was filled with panic.

    Ardes heart was pounding painfully, and she no longer knew what to do.

    Usually, shewould bepreparing for what she was told to do, not standing there in a daze. However, Ardes feet did not move.

    No.

    Shecould notmove.

    Shehada bad feeling about this. Why?

    Ardes vision was blurred by the palpitations in her heart and the dust from the chaos of the gates. But Arde saw a tall, jet-ck haired manstaggeringfrom the crowd and pushing his waytowardsher.

    It was Lukrov.

    He was holding something tightly in his arms that was unresponsive.

    No way. Please tell me its not.

    The night sky was brighter than usual since it would soon be a full moon.

    The castles bonfires and the lights in the doorwaysthatwere lit in response to the news ofLukrovsreturn clearly illuminated the approaching shadows.

    That  Chizuru-sama!

    Ardesvoice rose to make a small scream. The one held inLukrovsarms wasanunconscious Chizuru, drenched with blood.

 Chapter 97

    Arde  Present

    Arde screamed even louder when she saw that Chizurus shoulder was stained with blood. Her ck dresswastorn from the cor,and a white clothwaswrapped around her top.Regardless,most of her left shoulder was stained red.

    The man holding her, Lukrov, had an inhuman look in his eyes.

    His eyes looked as if they were the eyes of a beast in the face of an enemy.They wereeyes of a wild animal that would bite to death anyone who approached it mercilessly.

    Lukrov entered the castle without a second nce and ran straight upstairs to Chizurus room on the second floor.

    Arde desperately followed him up the stairs.

    Lukrov lowered Chizuru slowly and carefully onto the bed and whispered something softly into his lovers ear in a voice Arde could not hear.

    When Arde reached Chizurus room, panting heavily, Lukrov didnt bat an eye but ordered in a low, hoarse voice.

    Get the doctor. Here. Immediately.

    Arde shook her head as she tried to respond, but just then,Nadal came rushing into the room, apanied by the doctor.

    Lukrov-sama! Ive got the doctor with me now!

    Nadals voice was hoarse and muffled as he pushed a thin, old woman in a grayish coat forward.

    Theold womans name was Estabelle, and she was an eerie presence in a dusty, suspicious room in the corner of the castle, silently preparing different kinds of herbs every day. However, the medicines she made worked well, and whenever knights got injured in training and went to Estabelle for help, they were always cured in no time.

    Nevertheless, aside from the rumors of her excellent healing skills, Estabelle was like a shadow of a castle. Arde had never even seen her eating in the grand dining room before.

    The petite old womans hair was white and messy, but her sunken eyes shone unexpectedly bright.

    Kid, why dont you go get some hot water?

    Estabelle urged Nadal in a hushed emotionless voice. Nadal rushed out of the room, as agitated as when he hadentered.

    As Arde looked on in confusion, Estabelle walked quickly to the bed withnimble stepsthat didnt suit her age, and when she was next to Lukrov, she turned around to Arde.

    Give me the cloth in your hand. Yes, all of them.

    It took Arde a few seconds to realize that the instruction was directed at her, and in panic, she approached Estabelle and handed her the cloth.

    As she approached the bed, Ardeended upright behind Lukrov, whokneeledbeside Chizuru, hisbroadback bent over.

    Lukrovs hair was a mess, and he wore no armor, no chainmail, just a dirty jacket.

    He smelled like dried blood.

    The broad-shouldered, well-trained warriors back was now trembling.

    Chizuru-sama. Why?

    And Chizuru,lying down with no energy like a puppet whose strings were cut off. Her face was pale as if the blood was sucked out of her, and her long ck hair was scattered around her.

    Arde gasped involuntarily.

    Her knees were trembling as Estabelle carefully exposed Chizurus left shoulder.

    The smell of rusty iron stung her nostrils as the dried ck blood now mixed with the freshredblood from Chizurus open wound.

    Unable to look away, Arde burst into tears.

    On Chizurus left shoulder, there was a distinct circr wound. It wasas if she had been shot with a sharp arrow. Estabelle removed the blood-soaked cloth cautiously and started cleaning the bloodstain off Chizurus skin.

    Looks like that was a pretty thick arrow.

    Estabelle asked, turning to Lukrov for confirmation, but her gaze never left Chizurus wound.

    Arde was standing behind Lukrov, so she could not see his expression.

    However, it was probably for the best.

    If she were to see Lukrovs face now, Arde would probably be unable to stand.

    Lukrov gave a short reply in a low, muffled voice. It was probably an attempt to answer Estabelles question in the affirmative.

    I dont think its poisoned This is a blessing among misfortunes

    As Estabelle continued to clean Chizurus wound, she mumbled to herself about the symptoms.

    When the cloth touched the wound, Chizurus whole body trembled, and her face became distorted.

    Arde breathed a sigh of relief as she saw the signs that Chizuru was still alive, even in this pitiful gesture of enduring pain. That was how pale Chizuru was.

    Lukrovsrge, strong hand touched Chizurus forehead, tracing the soft lines of her hair.

    Im sorry  Chizuru. Its okay. Its going to be okay.

    His voice was incredibly gentle, mixed with anxiety that made him feel like he was about to fall apart, and a great affection that overcame even that.

    Ardes heart tightened, and she struggled to think of something she could do for the two of them.

    Just then, Nadal appeared at the entrance of the room carrying a bucket of hot water, and Arde rushed over to help the boy.

 Chapter 98

    As the hot water was brought in, Estabelle wiped the area around the wound in a proficient manner.

    Arde took over the role of soaking the cloth in hot water, squeezing it out, and keeping it beside the bucket as perEstabellesinstructions.

    Throughout this time, Chizuru justid there helplessly, asionally trembling in pain and letting out a sob when her wounds were touched. Each time she made a move or a sound, Lukrov wouldfort her with his overly gentle voice.

    I dont think any of the vital organsgotdamaged, and therge blood vessels seem to be intact, but it took you a long time to get the arrow out,right? Were there any enemies around?

    While still treating the wound, Estabelle asked Lukrov again.

    This time he was kneeling next to the bucket on the floor so Ardecouldnce at Lukrovs profile.

    His eyes seemed to be burning with anger and sadness, his lips were dry and chapped, and his chin and cheeks had dark shadows from not having shaved for days.

    Yes, but thats not all.

    His hand was squeezing Chizurus thin fingers.

    A delicate gold ringsaton Chizurus ring finger.

    Roan walked into the room with loud footsteps and the sound of ttering armor breaking the heavy atmosphere. He hadthrown off his upper body armor, but from the knees down, he was still wearing his iron armor and chainmail. His bright red hair looked gray with dust and stood upside down like a lions.

    Damn Lukrov! Chizuru! How is Chizuru!

    Roansbreath was ragged, perhaps because he had been running very fast to get here.

    Nadal and Arde looked back in surprise, but Lukrov did not flinch. Only Estabelle turned around slowly and calmly in an out-of-ce manner, raising one eyebrow andredat the red-haired knight.

    Shut up, young boy! If you want to help her, youd better get out and get some more hot water, salt, garlic, and a bottle of herbs. The herbs are in my treatment room.

    With that, Estabelle took another wet cloth from Arde.

    You too, youngdy. Take that annoying boy over there and show him where my room is.

    For a moment, Roan seemed amused at being called a young boy, but when he saw Lukrovs frozen back and Chizurus wounds,his face stiffened. Hequietly followed Estabelles instructions and left the room.

    Nadal, Arde, and Roan gathered in the hallway.They all staredat the closed door of Chizurus room with dark expressions.

    After a few moments of silence, Roan put his hand on Nadals shoulder, shaking his head.

    Youre Nadal, right? Good, go bring more hot water. What else did she say green onions?

    I think it was garlic, sir. Salt, and garlic.

    Nadal replied stoutly.

    Then all three of them distorted their faces at the same time as if they,themselves,had been rubbed with salt.

    Estabelles decision wasmost likelythe right one, but applying this mixture to an open wound would be quite painful.

    Arde felt suffocated at the thought of Chizuru, and Lukrov, whohadto watch her suffer.

    However, there was no time for sympathy.

    Do exactly as youre told. Get as much as you can, as quickly as possible. Make sure its clean.

    Yes, yes.

    Nadal straightened his back, bowed respectfully, and left the hallway at the speed of lightning. As he watched the boy walk away, Roan looked back at Arde.

    And it looks like youll have to lead me to that doctors room. Was it a bottle of herbs?

    Arde nodded.

    I went into that room about a year ago to get some fever reducers for my daughter who had a high fever. There were bottles of herbs that had been prepared in various ways and disyed with silverbels.

    We should go now. We must hurry.

    The red-haired knight and Arde walked down the stairs as fast aspossibleand made their way down the long corridor.

    They were both silents for a while, partly because they were in a hurry, but as they passed through the main tower and approached the remote tower where Estabelles room was, Arde couldnt help but ask.

    Duke Roan, what happened to Chizuru-sama and Lukrov-sama? What were those injuries ?

    Roan did not look back at Arde.

    He kept his lips tightly pursed as he stared straight ahead.

    She thought he might be annoyed that a mere servant had asked him such an intrusive question, but he just seemed to be at a loss as to how to exin it.

 Chapter 99

    When they reached the front of the room they were looking for and pushed thefirmwooden door open, the unique smell of various medicinal herbs mixed with different aromas and odorsgreeted them.

    They lit a candle and entered the room, finding a row of clear ss bottles of various sizes lined up on an old wooden table.

    Some were filled with liquid, others with dried leaves, and each one had a small silver te attached to it.

    (Fever reducer) thats what she gave me for my daughter  it worked well. (Diarrhea), (stomachache), (bruises) not exactly what were looking for.

    However, thereweretoo many kinds.

    Arde and Roan split up and searched for what Estabelle requested from top to bottom. They managed to find (stabbing wound medicine), (bleeding prevention), and (disinfection). Roan carried three bottles in his strong, sturdy arm.

    Just as he was about to leave Estabelles room, Roan, who was one step ahead of Arde, stopped.

    Come to think of it, youre the girl who served Chizuru fourteen years ago, Arde, right?

    Yes thats right.

    When Arde answered, Roan stared up at the ceiling in astonishment.

    Oh my God! Lukrovhiredyou for Chizurus sake,didnthe?

    Although Lukrov never explicitly dered it, Arde herself believed so, and by all ounts, there was no other way to exin it.

    Yes, maybe  I suppose youre right, Arde said as she smiled faintly.

    Damn!

    Roan patted his chest with one hand so hard that the bottle he was holding in the other handalmostfell out.

    Although inappropriate, Roans reaction was very straightforward and honest.Lukrovs love for Chizuru was so deep that he couldnt help with noticing it everywhere,and it made him sad. Especially now, when Chizurus lifewason the line.

    I guess I should tell you then  Chizuru was shot by an arrow while covering for Lukrov. The arrow was aimed at his heart. The fool wasnt wearing any armor, and if Chizuru hadnt shielded him, he wouldnt be alive today.

    Aldes legs stopped moving. Its not that she didnt expect it, but

    Thats not all.

    Histypicallybright and shy face tensed up visibly, and he slowly turned to face Arde.

    After Chizuru was shot, another arrow followed in rapid speed. This time it was aimed at Chizurus heart But the arrow opponent was Lukrov. He quickly saw through it and tried to protect Chizuru, but he had no sword or shield as he let go of his sword when he saw Chizuru and rushed towards her. It is something that no one should do in battle. But Lukrov, at that moment.

    Roan was at a loss for words, unable to finda suitableexpression.

    Arde nodded in understanding.

    Anyway, they both fell off the horse to avoid the arrow, I dont know if it was a spur of the moment thing, or if that was the way it was supposed to be, but the tip of the arrow that was stuck in Chizuru got tangled with Lukrovs chainmail. It got tangled,and he couldnt get it off.

    For a moment,Ardeblinked impatiently, unable toprehend what was said.

    What do you mean, it got stuck?

    This is it.

    In order to make it easier to understand, Roan picked up the chainmail he was wearing with his free hand and showed it to Arde. The heavy metal sound echoed.

    Even Arde knew how thick and heavy it was without any exnation.

    Its heavy and quite difficult to put on and take off. There is no way you can take it off in the middle of battle. Its like asking the enemy to kill you.

    So  what happened to Lukrov-sama?

    She was afraid to hear the answer, but she felt that she had an obligation to know.

    Shehadto help the two of them

    They were facing a harsh fate, and someone had to protect them.

    For some reason, Roan looked around cautiously, then returned his gaze to Arde and continued in a low, restrained voice.

    He fought with one hand while holding Chizuru to his chest, He picked up the fallen swords and defeated many enemies, and it continued until the battle was over. What else was he supposed to do?

    He kept apologizing to Chizuru continuously.

    Ah.

    Arde had to keep her eyelids down and took a deep breath to prevent tears from spilling.

    The walk back to Chizurus room was unbearably painful and long.

 Chapter 100

    Arde  present

    When Arde and Roan returned to Chizurus room, Nadal had already gathered the items he had been instructed to collect and was standing just behind Estabelle.

    The normally lively boy now lookedpletely drained by exhaustion and anxiety. His brown curly hair stuck to his skin, hisplexion was pale, and his hands were trembling slightly.

    He was too preupied with Chizuru and Lukrov to pay attention to anything else, but Nadal was still a child, and it was nighttime.

    Arde approached him quietly and ced a hand on the boys shoulder.

    Ill help you from here. Nadal, you should go back to your room.

    But

    Nadal looked over Estabelles shoulder as she knelt on the floor, staring at the sleeping Chizuru.

    Arde gulped as she looked at the same scene.

    Estabelle was about to clean Chizurus wound with saltwater.Itwas a necessary measure to prevent infection. However, she has seen tough knights undergo simr treatment and writhe around in extreme pain.

    The delicate, fragile Chizuruwouldnow have to endure such pain.

    Make sure you keep her still. Or should I tie her up?

    Estabelle said this in such a casual tone that Arde couldnt believe her ears for a moment. Arde, Roan, and Nadal were all nervous, but they couldnt answerasEstabelles question was definitely directed at Lukrov.

    After all this time, Lukrov would have to choose which way Chizuru would suffer.

    The thought of this made Arde unable to remain silent,and she stepped forward.

    Ill hold her down. Please let me do this.

    Estabellelooked up at her skeptically.

    The old womans gaze alternated between Arde and Lukrov, waiting silently for an answer.

    You wont make it.

    Lukrov stopped Arde with a muffled voice. Ill hold her still. Nadal, you go back to your room. Arde, stand next to the doctor and assist her with the cloth change.

    Arde was about to open her mouth to argue, but suddenly Roanced his handon her shoulder,and she turned around to look at him. The red-haired knight kept his lips pursed and shook his head quietly. Then he whispered in a calm voice.

    If I were Lukrov, Id do it. I cant let anyone else do it, no, I wont leave it to someone else.

    Arde stared at Roan for a moment, then slowly realized what he meant and nodded slowly and bitterly.

    While Estabelle prepared the saltwater container, Lukrov climbed carefully on top of the bed and held Chizurus arms and legs as he covered her.

    Nnhaah!

    A faint sound escaped from Chizurus lips.

    She opened her eyes slightly,and her gaze wandered aimlessly for a moment. Then she noticed Lukrovs presence and fixed her gaze on him.

    Chizurus lips trembled as she tried to call out Lukrovs name. Her lips moved,but no sound came out.

    Lukrov smiled sadly and gently pressed his lips against his lovers cheek, who was in a daze of pain and bleeding.

    Chizuru

    His voice was hoarse.

    My dreams. My heart. You are the only  thing I want in my whole life.

    Arde sat down on her knees right next to Estabelle.

    She prepared a pile of fresh pieces of cloth beside her, ready to hand them over to Estabelle whenever she requested one.

    Nadal retreated to the centre of the room but hesitated to step outside and ended up standing next to Roan, his shoulders trembling.

    Lukrov made no furtherment.

    I will start now. Its going to hurt. But hopefully, we can prevent it from getting infected. That way, hopefully, she will survive.

    Surprisingly, there was a hint of kindness in Estabelles tone.

    Chizurus eyes flickered with anxiety. She tried to shake her head slightly as if she was trying to fight back, but she didnt seem to have enough strength left to do so. Arde felt Lukrov clench his teeth tightly.

    Ah Ah!!

    Estabelle continued to clean Chizurus shoulder, pushing the wound open and spraying saltwater over it. A pale pinkish liquidwhich was a mixture of water and blood flowed down Chizurus shoulder, and Arde had to hand fresh cloth to Estabelle repeatedly in a quick motion so that she wiped the liquid off.

    A muffled scream escaped Chizurus throat.

    Chizuru arched her back, desperately trying to withstand the intense pain. She struggled to resist, but with Lukrov holding her down tightly, it was impossible to make a single move.

    For what seemed like an eternity, Estabelle continued to thoroughly wash the wound.

    Chizuru gradually lost her strength, and apart from the asional trembling sob, she gradually sank back onto the pillow.

    Okay, the only thing left to do is to use herbs. Hand it over.

    After receiving the jar of herbs, the old doctors wrinkled hands steadily applied ayer of herbs to Chizurus shoulder with skilled movements. Then, to finish, she wrapped a bandage around it.

    When everything was over, Arde was drenched in sweat andutterlyexhausted.

    As she managed to catch her breath and wipe the sweat from her forehead, Lukrov pulled himself away from Chizuru with a slow, lifeless movement as if he was a ghost.

    The man who was once known as the Knight of the ze stood up from the bed unsteadily, his face distorted with sorrow at the sight of the numerous blood-stained cloth scattered on the floor.

    Arde stiffened on the spot as if time had stopped at that moment.

    She has never seen a man look so sad in her life. Tears ran slowly down Lukrovs cheeks.

    Nadal, whohad just beenwatching, wastotallyexhausted as well, and even Roan seemed to have lost the energy to interrupt.

    Only Estabellewascalmlyexiningthe situation while she was rinsing her hands, stained from all the work.

    With this, it wont get badly infected. But you know

    However, the old womans voice was not a cheerful hat would announce good news.

    Shes lost a lot of blood. Its too much blood for one girl to lose. And Im sure you know  but shes going to be suffering from a high fever all night. If she can withstand it, shell probably survive.

    Arde could feel Lukrov and Roan clenching their fists tightly.

    Although Arde didnt witness a lot of it, she was sure that Lukrov and Roan, being experienced warriors, had seen plenty ofsimr situations.

    Even if a person didnt die immediately after receiving a stab wound, there were plenty of people who lost their lives due to the high fever that followed.

    Eventhoughthey avoided theworst-casescenario of an infected wound, the danger was not over yet.

    The next few daysweregoing to be long and painful.

    Arde didnt know how much hope she could hold on to,and Lukrov must have felt the same way. His eyes were fixed on Chizurus pale face and looked as if he was uttering a desperate prayer.

 Chapter 101

    ArdePresent

    Just as Estabelle had predicted, Chizuru began to run a high fever as the night deepened, and by the time the sun started to dim the sky, her fever was dangerously high.

    Nadal had gone back to his room soon after that.

    Roan stayed by Lukrovs side for a while. But when morning came, he left Chizurus room.

    Throughout the whole time, Lukrov sat on the chair next to Chizurus bed with his strong back bent as he quietly watched her every move and every breath. If she began to sweat, he would wipe it off with a cool cloth. If she started to have nightmares from her high fever, he would gently stroke her cheek to calm her down.

    During the whole time, Lukrov was quiet and did not say much, but when he saw Arde trying to take care of him, he told her to return to her family at dawn.

    No, Lukrov-sama. Chizuru-sama needs help now. Please let me stay here.

    When Arde pleaded, Lukrov looked at her nkly for a moment, then returned his gaze to Chizuru without saying a word. He probably didnt have the energy to argue with her anymore.

    So he made no further remarks.

    On the top of the wooden shelf, there was a fever reducer that Estabelle had left behind. However, it hadnt taken effect yet.

    Time passed frustratingly slowly, and even as the castle began to buzz with life in the morning, Chizurus room was as quiet as if it was isted from its surroundings.

    After going around the castle to get some more fresh cloths, Arde returned to Chizurus room and informed Lukrov, I asked the cook to prepare a beef broth since the doctor said this is the best way to restore the lost blood.

    Lukrov raised his eyes for a moment but quickly turned his attention back to Chizuru and mumbled something briefly in an inaudible voice. Perhaps he was thanking her. Arde stopped overthinking Lukrovs current behavior.

    For fourteen years, his beloved, whom he had been seeking to meet even at the cost of his own soul, was on the brink of death in front of him.

    It would be foolish to expect any form of courtesy or attention from Lukrov in such a situation.

    In fact, it seemed that Lukrov waspletely unaware of his surroundings.

    Only when Arde called out to him or reached out to change Chizurus sheets did he seem to notice the maids presence, and that interest usually faded in an instant. As soon as he lost interest, they soon returned to a world revolving around Chizuru and Lukrov.

    asionally, the fever got the better of her, and she would ramble on in a faint voice.

    Many of the words made absolutely no sense, but Lukrov treated each one as if it were a message from heaven.

    At one point, Chizuru murmured sadly in a tearful voice, No, please.

    Lukrov took Chizurus hand, kissed her fingertips softly again and again, and answered his lover in a low, spine-chilling, masculine voice.

    Whats the matter, Chizuru? Whats wrong?

    Naturally, Chizuru didnt have the strength to reply, and it seemed that she barely heard Lukrovs voice, so she let out a short moan and fell asleep again.

    Lukrov let out an exhausted sigh.

    You really are a difficult woman Chizuru. On top of that, you are incredibly difficult to deal with. You are whimsical, ignorant, and have no idea what youre doing.

    Then, he ced his hand on Chizurus cheek and smiled faintly.

    I love you, Chizuru. I love you.

 Chapter 102

    Arde  Present

    There was one small detail that Arde noticed at that moment.

    Right next to Lukrov, there was a sword leaning against the wall. At first, she thought it had been left and forgotten there, but it seemed too well prepared to be natural.

    It was a long sword without a scabbard, polished and ready to be used.

    It was both beautiful and sharp.

    At the same time, Ardes instincts were filled with suspicion and doubt.

    Indeed, in Lukrovs private quarters, there was a considerable assortment of weapons. However, he had never brought them into Chizurus room. Even when he spent the night here, Lukrov sometimes kept a dagger somewhere for self-defense, but he never ced it in in sight.

    For him, Chizurus room was sacred, not to be defiled with weapons.

    That was it.

    Sometimes, when Chizurus breathing became strained and faint, Lukrovs gaze would shift to the sword immediately.

    Arde closed her eyes tightly and took a deep breath, struggling to calm her grief-ridden mind.

    This wasnt the time to be crying.

    If Chizuru did not make it, Lukrov was already prepared.

    Arde couldnt say anything about it  no She didnt even know what to say.

    The moment the beef soup arrived in the room, Arde approached Chizuru with a silver spoon.

    She has to eat this.  Shall I do it?

    Since Lukrov basically wanted to care for Chizuru himself, there was no need to ask anything. However, Arde asked only to be sure.

    As expected, Lukrov shook his head.

    Hand it to me.

    He carefully lifted Chizurus upper body and cushioned her back with a couple of soft pillows to give her morefort.

    He held Chizuru firmly by the shoulders with one arm and slowly brought the spoon to his lips with the other hand.

    After blowing on the soup to cool it down to a suitable temperature, Lukrov whispered to Chizuru gently  as if to encourage her.

    Just eat some of this, Chizuru, even if its just a little bit.

    Chizurus consciousness seemed to be foggy, and she could barely move aside from opening her eyes a crack. Lukrov ced the tip of the spoon against Chizurus lower lip.

    At least, do it for me.

    Chizuru opened her mouth slightly.

    He carefully poured some soup into it, and Chizuru managed to swallow a little bit of the amber liquid. She immediately coughed and gasped in pain.

    Lukrov tossed the spoon aside and wrapped his hands around Chizurus face in an affectionate gesture.

    Good girl, Theres no need to rush. Lets drink slowly. I have all the time in the world for you.

    Instantly after Lukrov soothed her, Chizuru let out a heart-rendering sigh and leaned on his shoulder as if she were being pampered.

    Chizuru took her time and managed to drink about half of the bowl. Soon after, she sank into a heavy sleep, exhausted, and did not wake up for quite some time.

    One day passed in that manner.

    As the second and third days progressed, there was a slight glimmer of hope.

    Her fever was still as high as ever and showed no signs of subsiding, but her conscious time gradually increased with each passing day.

    Estabelle woulde to Chizurus room twice a day to check on her wounds, sterilize them, apply fresh herbs, and change the bandages. It was difficult to read the expression on the old womans face, which was covered with deep wrinkles, but even so, Arde felt that her expression was bing somewhat calmer, or was it just wishful thinking on Ardes part?

    She hoped that this was not the case.

    At least the wound did not be infected as they feared. Also, the bleeding had stopped, and the wound seemed to be slowly recovering.

 Chapter 103

    TL: Le

    Editor:QianMin

    Pr: Kay

    Arde  Present

    On the evening of the third day, Chizuru woke up for a brief moment.

    Lukrov?

    She looked around nkly with unfocused eyes as if she were still dreaming. For three days now, Lukrov had barely left Chizurus side, except for once when he went back to his room to shave, and of course, he was right next door when he did.

    Chizuru.

    Lukrov took Chizurus hand and bent over to look into his lovers face.

    The two looked at each other quietly and smiled softly at one another. The intimate atmosphere spread throughout the room, causing even the experienced maid Arde, who was trained to stay in the shadows, to feel nervous.

    Lukrovs hand tightened even more.

    Im sorry  Lukrov..

    Chizuru looked up at Lukrov as she whispered, her voice so weak it was barely audible.

    Even though.. even though I. made a promise,

    The stiff Lukrov questioned her in a low, raspy voice, Why are you apologizing?

    Tears gradually umted at the corners of her eyes.

    I made a promise . didnt I .? That Ill never leave you . That Ill always be by your side .

    Chizuru stopped speaking for a while as if she was having trouble breathing. Lukrov patiently waited for her to continue. Momentster, Chizuru began to speak again, slowly.

    And then  I disappeared.

    Its not your fault, Chizuru. Its not your fault.

    But

    No buts. You dont have to apologize. Youre here now. Right here, right beside me. Isnt that right?

    Chizuru bit her lip tightly and gave a small nod.

    Youre a good girl. And  youre not going to leave me. Isnt that right?

    Chizurus face crumpled, a tear spilled from her eye, and she gave a small nod again.

    Yeah.

    Thats it then. Thats all I need to know. Dont cry.

    But Lukrovs voice was also trembling. He then repeated his reassurance.

    Dont cry. It will affect your wounds.

    They hugged each other on the bed. It seemed like they were quietly confirming each others existence.

    After a while, Chizuru began to doze off again from the fever and whispered to Lukrov in a faint voice before closing her eyes, I  lied to you.

    Lied?

    Lukrov fiddled with Chizurus hair between his fingertips.

    What did you lie about?

    I said I was tired of you  and that I would marry someone else .

    Startled, Arde lifted her head from the sewing she was doing at that moment. She couldnt see Lukrovs face, but Chizuru was tilting her head anxiously.

    Lie. It was a lie  Im sorry. I told you I was tired of you.

    Chizuru.

    I dont want to marry anyone else.

    Chizuru.

    As Chizurus consciousness gradually clouded over, Lukrov patted her lightly on the cheek, calling her name over and over.

    I knew that all along, Chizuru. Youre a terrible liar. And theres no way Im going to marry another woman. Even at this very moment, all I can think about is how I want to hold you in my arms in your bridal gown as soon as possible.

    Still, Chizuru continued to converse with him in low, hushed tones that Arde couldnt catch. However, she could see Lukrov shaking his head in denial.

    The only one I love is you, no matter what. Youre the only one Ill ever love in life and death.

    Arde wondered to herself how many people live their entire lives dreaming and searching for this kind of love  a true love that only a handful of people could find.

    No matter what the future held for them, they have found the one to whom they could offer such rare love. Beyond time and space.

    And now, they were fighting for that love.

    Even if death were to separate their bodies, their hearts and souls would always remain one, and they would never be apart forever.

    Chizuru sank back into a long, deep sleep.

    Lukrov didnt let go of Chizuru, not even once until the morning came.

    Then, time passed, and the morning of the fifth day arrived.

    *****

 Chapter 104

    TL: Le

    Editor:QianMin

    Proof-reader: Kay

    With You (1)

    Chizuru slowly opened her eyes, lured by the distant chirping of birds and the sunlight tickling her eyelids.

    The light was so bright that she blinked several times as soon as she opened her eyes.

    Although her mind was notpletely clear yet, she was still awake enough to have a vague grasp of her situation.

    Im on the  bed.

    Right now, its probably morning.

    She remembered the little window over there. In the early hours of the morning, the light would alwayse in at an angle like now. It was as if it was teasing Chizurus low blood pressure and encouraging her to get up.

    Yes, just like now.

    Chizuru tried to sit up unconsciously, but her body was so heavy that she could hardly move. A slight chill ran through her body, which made her shudder.

    This ce.

    Me.

    Lukrov

    It felt like she had been dreaming for a long, long time.

    It was a dream where one wouldnt know where the dream began and where reality began. She had been going back and forth through the dream world, which was sometimes empty and suffocating, and sometimes so sweet that it was captivating.

    However, Lukrov was always there, calling Chizurus name over and over, and gently stroking her hair.

    Lukrov.?

    Chizuru, once again, called out the name of the man she loved.

    As soon as she returned to reality, she felt as if she had suddenly been separated from him, and her heart beat faster with anxiety, even though in her dreams they were always together.

    The morning sun was so bright in her eyes, and since she had not opened them for a long time, she had to blink again to get them used to the light.

    Chizuru turned her head, seeking out the figure of the tall, dark-haired knight. Each movement she made caused her joints to creak, and her dry throat would ache. But it didnt matter.

    Lukrov.

    I can endure any amount of pain as long as you are safe.

    Ill give anything to honor the promise I made to you. So stay here.

    But Lukrov was nowhere to be found.

    Instead, the familiar room stood in the background, except for a new peach-colored flower ced on a wooden shelf sharing the quiet space with Chizuru.

    Chizurus face crumpled unconsciously, and she attempted to hold back the tears that were threatening to overflow. But it was difficult.

    Where  is Lukrov ?

    She remembered her shoulder getting pierced by an arrow for him.

    She also remembered how they both fell off the horse and how the tip of the arrow got entangled in Lukrovs chainmail and got stuck. Despite the enemiesing at him from all sides, Lukrov fought on while he held her tightly with one hand and swung his sword with the other.

    The shock and pain that struck her each time were indescribable.

    Lukrov continued to cut down his enemies while apologizing to her over and over again.

    Im sorry, Chizuru, Im sorry I beg you, please hang in there, he said.

    If it wasnt for his continuous pleads, she wouldnt be able to stay conscious. In the face of the amount of suffering she was going through, she would have given up her consciousness or even her life.

    And when the battle was over, and the surroundings became quiet, Lukrov, with the help of Roan, managed to take off his chainmail and tried to pull out the arrow.

    Perhaps it was due to the intense pain she felt at that moment that she lost her conscience.

    The rest of her memory was fuzzy and vague. She was unable to tell her dream and reality apart.

    But she did remember some things.

    Lukrovs gentle, faint voice.

    The sensation of his rough, unshaved skin touching her cheek.

    The hot tingling she felt every time he stroked her hand orbed her hair.

    Was it all a dream?

    She had no means to know.

    But if it was real, then why wasnt he here ?

    Her whole body felt as heavy as water-soaked mud, and her shoulders ached, but she wasnt even able to wipe the tears from her eyes.

    Please  Lukrov .

 Chapter 105

    With You  2

    Just then, as if in answer to Chizurus plea, the door to Lukrovs master bedroom opened with a dry clicking sound, and he appeared.

    He was dressed in a white linen shirt and dark blue pants, with a strip of beige cloth wrapped around his waist. His beard was shaved clean, but his hair had grown longer than usual, and shadows formed below his eyes  as if he hadnt slept well for days.

    At first, he didnt seem to notice that Chizuru was awake, and he walked around looking down, fiddling with the cufflinks on his sleeves. Then, as he quietly walked into Chizurus room, he slowly lifted his head.

    Their eyes locked.

    Lukrov opened his mouth slightly and let out a short breath.

    Chizuru.

    Chizurus chest was so full, she couldnt reply.

    Good morning, Lukrov. Ive missed you. Why do you look so surprised? Please,e closer.

    There were so many things she wanted to say, but she couldnt say any of them out loud, and she just gazed at his face.

    Lukrov seemed to have the same trouble finding the right words, and he gazed at Chizurus entire body with his lips slightly parted. His eyes were so earnestly passionate that his gaze alone set her whole body on fire.

    Lukrov

    The only thing Chizuru could mutter was his name.

    But there was no need for further conversation between them now. With blinding speed, Lukrov made his way to Chizurus bedside, knelt on the floor, and took his lovers hand.

    His lips slowly caressed Chizurus body; her fingertips, wrists, the crook of her elbow, shoulder, corbone, neck, cheeks, and finally, her lips which he sealed with a devouring kiss. Chizuru gasped a little while tilting her head awkwardly, but she responded to the continuous hot kisses with equal passion.

    Ha.

    A sad sigh escaped in between their kisses. Chizuru raised her head slightly, letting the aftermath of her heated feelings wash over her.

    Lukrovs eyes looked down at her, and although his eyes were shadowed with fatigue, they were filled with breathtaking joy and love. Even though she was the one unable to move from the bed, she felt as if she had to protect him, so she wrapped her hands around his cheeks and smiled.

    Are you alright?

    When Chizuru asked, Lukrov looked as if he had been caught by a fox and raised his eyebrow.

    You must be tired thats why. You havent slept much, have you?

    For a moment, Lukrov seemed to consider the meaning of her words. But then she realized that she had ignited his passion. His jet-ck eyes instantly burned with desire and excitement, and a wild passion that had lost itsmon sense and reason was about to erupt.

    For some reason.

    Luk

    Yeah, Im tired.

    He managed to keep hisposure, but it was clear on his face that he wanted to unleash a beastly roar right now if he could. No proof needed  his shaking voice was evidence of this.

    Chizuru braced herself and put into practice the very Japanese idea that perhaps she could calm the heat of this knight with a cute, affectionate smile.

    She smiled.*1

    At that moment, Lukrov cupped her face in his hands and quickly raised his upper body.

    ROAAAN!!!!

    Lukrovs angry voice echoed throughout the castle, and it felt as if the sturdy stone walls were shaking. Perhaps the people in the city, if not everyone in the country, felt it too.

    Wha, whaa, what !!?

    Roan rushed out from the door that was connected to the master bedroom  the same door Lukrov came out earlier  and was in a full-scale panic.

    Roan showed up wearing light clothes and his hair was disheveled, but he had a big smile on his face when he saw Chizuru and Lukrov entangled on the bed.

    Chizuru, youre awake! Oh, thank goodness, I was wondering what was going to happen for a moment!

    Lukrov watched as Roan walked into the room, his footsteps loud.

    Get the hell out of here! he eximed.

    What?

    No what. Pack up your men and your belongings now and return to your territory as quickly as possible. Dont waste time ande back with your wife and children.

    Eh??

    Roan scratched his head, ncing between the confused Chizuru and the wolfishly ring Lukrov, seemingly pondering over what to do. Chizurus eyes flickered as a signal for help, but Roan didnt seem to get it.

    Im a guest.

    A guest has to leave at some point.

    F*ck that!

    Roan cursed resentfully, but there was some logic to what Lukrov said, so he couldnt me him, even if he was talking nonsense.

    Why dont you at least exin why? Think about all the things Ive done for you so far. Ive been overseeing this castle for the past five days while youve been useless.

    Lukrov bluntly ignored Roans remarks.

    Go home quickly ande back as soon as possible. Im getting married.

    Huh?!

    To be honest, I dont care if youre here or not, but my bride wants to invite you.

    Thank you, Chizuru. Im so grateful that I might cry.

    And then Lukrov took Chizurus hand, kissed her fingertips gently, and smiled mischievously.

    Lukrovs smile.

    The most powerful man, who was once known as the Knight of the Raging me. A warrior who saved the country  with such power, strength, and fierceness that made one tremble just by approaching him. The smile drawn on the face of that man, who had never smiled at anyone in so many years, was now filled with joy.

    She could not stop her body from tingling with joy.

    Lukrov.

    His big hand cupped Chizurus cheek firmly.

    Lets get married as soon as possible. I dont want to have to look around for you anymore. Ill never let you out of my sight, not even for a moment. I should have done that from the beginning. Nothing good happens when Im away from you for even a second.

    On the other side of the room, Roan was looking around dumbfounded, but both Chizuru and Lukrov just kept staring at each other. The red-haired knight shrugged his shoulders and walked out of the room through the door he had entered while grumbling to himself.

    Smiling, Lukrov ced his forehead against Chizurus.

    The fever  seems to be gone now.

    She gave a small nod.

    Although her body still felt heavy, and a numbing pain attacked her joints whenever she tried to move, the high fever that tormented her for so long waspletely gone.

    Maybe it was the anemia that was making her head spin, or perhaps it was just Lukrovs carefree smile.

    Umm  How long have I been asleep?

    Five whole days and a few hours.

    That much?

    Yeah.

    Lukrov sat up, one hand stroking Chizurus hair and neck with regret.

    Arde is making your meal now. She should be back with a bowl of soup soon, so lets talk until then.

    Lukrovs smile was so warm and happy that she could only smile back at him with the same warmth and affection.

    Okay~

    **

    Notes:

    1 So the smile here is different from normal smiling, how? Ask Japanese people :))). Anyways, the termmonly used for smile, or a smiling face(a noun) is (-Egao), but here, the term that was used is (-Nikori), which is used for smiling, the difference is that its a smile that shows emotions? I think thats how I can describe it so it trantes to smiling sweetly, smile with a warm heart(verb). Also as you can probably assume that the pronunciation for the word is also funny thats why its more used with SFX rather than day to day conversations.

 Chapter 106

    Lukrov lifted Chizurus upper body carefully and ced some pillows behind her back so that she could sit up, and after a while, the weight she had felt all over her body eased.

    Chizuru let out a sigh of relief, but as expected, it was still strenuous to move.

    I dont think youve recovered all the blood you lost yet, Lukrov exined while looking into Chizurus eyes.

    Youll have to stay in your bed for at least several more days. Let me know if you get tired. Ill put you to sleep.

    Okay

    Since she could sit upright, Chizuru was able to look at Lukrov straight in the eye.

    The face of therge knight approaching closer to her was breathtaking. The shadows under his eyes fromck of sleep did nothing to decrease his attractiveness, along with his masculine jawline, chiseled features, jet-ck eyes, and overflowing vitality.

    Chizuru couldnt help but feel her heart flutter when she faced him.

    I dont think Ill ever get used to it

    Perhaps Chizuru would be bewildered by Lukrovs charm for the rest of her life. His every move made her heart skip a beat, every touch made her tremble with joy, and every smile made her the happiest woman in the world.

    A lifetime spent with him sounded like a very attractive idea.

    I feel like Ive been dreaming for a long time. I still dont understand whats real and whats not, and I feel a bit weird.

    Chizuru expressed her current feelings honestly.

    Youve done well. You had a terrible fever for five whole days. You mustve dreamt a lot and had many nightmares. You asionally let out whimpers in your sleep.

    Nightmares?

    Yeah.

    His voice was low and hoarse, and his eyes remained fixed on Chizuru with a caring, teasing look. However, his leisurely, sincere smile made Chizuru rx.

    I wanted to do something for you, but all I could do was wipe your sweat off.

    Chizuru opened her mouth slightly, trying to tell him that there was no need for him to worry about her, but Lukrov saw right through that and gently ced his index finger on her lips.

    Every time you cried out in pain

    His gaze was filled with fiery heat.

    I prayed to the heavens. To God, if it meant that you would not be in pain. I would dly go to hell for that.

    Lukrov.

    .And then I regretted my actions. When we reunited, I wondered why I couldnt have been nicer to you! Why didnt I hug you honestly from the beginning and say thank you foring back? Why didnt I continue loving you just as I did in the past?

    Chizuru held out her uninjured right hand to touch Lukrovs face.

    At first, her hand went to his cheek, then to his forehead where the scar ran across it.

    Why couldnt they just love each other like they used to? There was a reason for that. It wasnt Lukrovs fault. He did the best he could.

    Im sorry, Lukrov.

    Its not your fault, Chizuru. I was just being stubborn.

    No Lukrov, you are kind. You had every right to be angrier, but you took good care of me and cherished me.

    The miracle of reuniting after fourteen years of separation.

    Beyond time and space, oveing sorrow and anger, the two of them faced each other here and now.

    The past was harsh. She was hurt and cried many times and suffered between giving up and being hopeful. There was bloodshed and even the loss of precious lives.

    But still.

    Still.

    They didnt give up.

    She couldnt give up on this person. Even if she was told to wait another hundred years, she would continue to love him.

 Chapter 107

    TL: Le

    Editor:QianMin

    Pr: Kay

    Read Advance chapters for the month of July by bing a patronHERE

    I apologized to you in my dream for not keeping my  promise, and you immediately forgave me. I guess it was just a convenient fantasy.

    Lukrov took Chizurus hand that was touching his forehead and kissed her fingertips delicately, then smiled wryly.

    Do you think it was a dream?

    It wasnt?

    Unless we both dreamt the same dream, it was probably real. You said that you couldnt keep your promise, that you lied to me, and that you wouldnt want me to marry another woman.

    Chizuru was at a loss for words and started to recall the moment vividly. She had thought that it had been a wishful dream caused by fever because Lukrov had been so kind and forgave her so easily, which waspletely unexpected for her.

    But if it was real .

    Im sorry.

    Ive forgiven you. You remember that, dont you? That was real, and no matter how many times you repeat it, the answer will never change. If youre here now, then everythings fine.

    Alright.

    You did your best. Im the one who should be thanking you and apologizing. Thank you, Chizuru.

    I love you, Lukrov.

    They leaned in close to each other, and it didnt take long before they began to kiss passionately in silence. Their kisses had always felt fresh and new, yet they connected as naturally as if they had been doing it for decades or centuries

    When Chizuru smiled, Lukrov also parted his lips slightly and smiled back.

    And when Chizuru closed her eyelids, ready to go in for another kiss

    Ive brought you some soup, Lukrov-sama. Theres also some bread from this morning.

    Arde came into the room carrying a silver tray holding a bowl of soup, a small piece of bread, and something else that looked like medicinal herbs. She entered the room without knocking on the door, probably because her hands were full.

    Then, witnessing the lovers about to kiss on the bed, she stiffened on the spot.

    ChiChizuru-sama!

    Arde let out a scream of joy and dropped the silver tray from her hand. The sound caused by the impact echoed loudly, but it did not seem to reach Ardes ears. The maids hands trembled, herrge blue eyes widened, and her mouth dropped open in an O shape.

    Chizuru tried to raise her head in a panic, but it seemed that Lukrov wasnt going to let go of her lips just because of the maids intrusion, and he held her cheeks firmly in ce with both hands.

    Lu-Lukrov

    In front of Ardes eyes, he took his time to kiss her more deeply than before. It was a long, rich, wet, and deep kiss, almost as if he was marking her.

    If it werent for the pain in her injured shoulder, she might have pushed Lukrov back out of shame. Their kisssted a long time in front of the puzzled Ardes startled eyes.

    When the kiss finally ended, Chizuru let out a gasp, and Arde rushed over to Chizurus side.

    Ah  ah, Chizuru-sama! Thank goodness, thank goodness!

    Arde knelt down beside the bed, right next to Lukrov, and took Chizurus hand.

    How worried  no, how, how sorry I am ! Its all because I left Chizuru-sama to be alone at that time. Please forgive me.

    With teary eyes, Arde kissed the back of Chizurus hand repeatedly.

    It was different from the passionate touch she had received from Lukrov, but it was warm andforting, filled with affection. Chizuru squeezed Ardes hand back.

    There is not a single thing that was Ardes fault. Lift your face and look at me.

    Arde looked up.

    She gazed at Chizuru, fascinated. It was as if she was witnessing a miracle. She, just like Lukrov, had a shade of fatigue on her face. She was slightly thinner, and her eyes were hollowed out.

    Chizuru felt like she was going to cry.

    If Lukrovs forgiveness was not a fever dream, then Ardes desperate efforts to take care of Chizuru must not be an illusion either.

    It was not just Arde. Roan, too, had the same look.

    If she hadnte back to this world, she wouldnt have been able to see them again.

    If she hadnt returned to Lukrov, she would never have met Nadal, Noah, or the children. Not only that, she would never have known of their existence from the beginning.

    Im d I came back.

    As she squeezed Ardes hand again, Chizuru whispered, holding back the tears that were about to flow at any moment.

    Even if there were things that she had to let go of in the process. And no matter how sad the journey may be.

    Chizuru woulde back again and again.

    Here.

    To Lukrov.

    Wee back, Chizuru-sama. Weve been waiting for you..

    When Arde spoke, Lukrov, who was next to her, also nodded with a gentle smile.

    ***

 Chapter 108

    Read Advance chapters for the month of July by bing a patronHERE

    With You

    Perhaps Chizurus injuries would have been absolutely non-fatal with the help of modern medicine. There were antibiotics to stop the infection, blood transfusions to restore the lost blood, and intravenous fluids to provide nutrition and fluids.

    At the very least, she wouldnt have been on the verge of life and death for five days.

    The same went for wound healing. In an environment where there was nothing but a suspicious ointment prepared by Estabelle, everything else was left to nature to heal, which of course, took time.

    It took another five days before she could get out of bed.

    By the time she was allowed to leave her room and walk outside, the season was already approaching winter. It was the first time in a long while where she was able to breathe in the fresh air under the sun, and it was so cold that it sent a chill through her lungs.

    The trees, which had been bright and green when Chizuru first arrived at the castle, had lost their leaves and now stood silently with only their trunks and dry branches.

    Chizuru looked up at the sky.

    She squinted at the glow of the morning sun.

    Dont move around too much for now. What if you get anemia?

    Lukrovs voice came from behind her, and Chizuru looked back over her shoulder. He was standing just behind her, wearing a ck cloak made of heavy, velvet-like fabric.

    It might not be appropriate to say keeping an eye on her, since Lukrov was the lord of this castle, but the way he was waiting at close range to make sure that Chizuru didnt fall over, and to hold her in his arms in case she did, was the very definition of keeping an eye on her.

    Chizuru slightly tilted her head and smiled at him.

    You dont have to worry so much. I feel like I can run around all day.

    For Gods sake Chizuru, can you please take a little more care of my heart?

    But Lukrov seemed to be happy as he said that.

    It was true that she had lost a lot of strength during the period she was bedridden, even going down the stairs made her out of breath, and if she moved around too much, she might get anemia.

    However, the joy of being outside for the first time in almost a month was so great, she felt like having a little fun. Chizuru spun around and stood in front of Lukrov, grabbing the front of his cloak.

    Can I go to the kidster?

    These days, Lukrov would rarely refuse Chizurus wishes. As long as it didnt negatively affect her condition, he would grant any wish with a gentle smile.

    Of course, Chizuru had no intention of using it for bad purposes, and her wishes were mostly limited to what she wanted to eat or who she wanted to meet. But if Chizuru begged him to build another castle, it was a matter of fact that Lukrov would somehow make it happen.

    Thats how doting Lukrov was to Chizuru.

    In addition, he regained his old cheerfulness and the mature charm developed over the years made him more attractive. Chizurus knees trembled with joy whenever he touched her. It was difficult to maintain a steady posture when she was so attracted to him.

    Her entire body became hot with desire with every touch of his hand.

    Only if you promise not to push yourself too hard.

    Lukrov took both of Chizurus hands and smiled as he lightly kissed her fingertips. Chizuru couldnt help but smile back.

    I promise. I will only look at them.

    They are children. I have no idea what you will do if you get excited with them and start pushing yourself. Ah, Ill just go with you.

    You will?! Theyll be happy to see you!

    After releasing his grip, he opened the front of his cloak and wrapped Chizurupletely in it. He wrapped Chizuru in a tight embrace that seemed to protect her from the cold air, the asional breeze, and everything else in the world.

    Chizuru leaned against Lukrovs chest and rxed her body.

    As she quietly lowered her eyelids, basking in the warmth of his body, she could hear the sound of his heart beating. A sign that he was alive. A sign that they were together.

    They were going to be married in a few days.

    Roan, who had temporarily returned to his territory, returned to the castle the other day with his wife and two children. He whispered to her ears that Baru was alright, though his arm was injured, and he was resting at his parents house, recovering from his injury and heartbreak.

    Whether Baru was really in love with her or not was a mystery to Chizuru.

    She guessed that it was okay to remain uncertain. He was a wonderful man and would certainly in the near future, meet a wonderful woman who would love him with all her heart.

    She wished Baru a happy future, and she vaguely felt that Baru must be wishing for her happiness as well.

    Although she was still unable to do any intense exercise, Chizuru was almost fully healed.

    She still had severe pain whenever she tried to move her left arm and would probably have some tingling for the rest of her life. Lukrov knew this, and he was very sweet and overprotective of Chizuru.

    It would be a lie to say it wasnt painful at all, but if this were the price she had to pay to live with him, she would dly pay it again and again.

    While being wrapped in Lukrovs cloak and feeling his body heat and cloak, Chizuru looked up slightly.

    She couldnt help but gaze at the outline of Lukrovs face as it glistened brightly in the morning sun, and the gentle smile on his face made her feel happy from the bottom of her heart.

    Im d to be back

    When Chizuru murmured, Lukrov raised one eyebrow and gave her a puzzled look.

    Im so far away from home, but when Im with Lukrov, I feel nostalgic. I feel like Ive finallye home. I feel like Ive finally found my true ce.

    Is that so?

    As if cherishing every word Chizuru said, Lukrov smiled proudly.

    You were born to live with me, and I live only to stay by your side. Its a pretty good match.

    Yeah.

    Chizuru nodded with a giggle and received another passionate kiss from Lukrov.

    The sounds and smells of the beginning of the day were drifting in the castle. On top of normal life activities, many people were busy working for the uing wedding ceremony. Even Chizuru had to take the final measurements for her dress, and she wanted to be able to take care of the children again as soon as possible.

    Lukrov had his own territory, his own people, and each season required growing and harvesting crops.

    There was a lot of work to be done.

    In order to live with him.

    Lukrovs lips slowly began to make their way down Chizurus skin, brushing through her corbone, then stopping when they touched her chest  where her heart was.

    Here.

    Lukrov said.

    Your heart  is the reason I live. The one and only reason I have.

    There were so many emotions overflowing from him to the point she could barely stand. She wrapped her hands around Lukrovs head and kissed his short, newly trimmed ck hair, just before the nape of his neck, with all her heart.

    I love you, Lukrov. I love you, Lukrov. Now and forever.

    The morning sun was glowing so brightly that it seemed to illuminate their future together. The wind whistled, the horses whined in the distance, and the two of them held each other for eternity.

    [Only With Your Heart  End of Main Story]

    ***

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