After the ceremony, everything continues as usual. The ministers will begin their work tomorrow, and I have everything prepared to hand over to them. They know well what their responsibilities are. Now, I also have a lot of work ahead of me.
Beatrice and Emilia have been acting strangely today.
It seems like both are up to something.
They advised me not to go to the office and, instead, head to the kiosk where we usually train. I haven't seen Crusch or Otto after the ceremony. They've vanished like the wind itself.
I'm about to open the door leading to the courtyard when someone covers my eyes.
"What's going on?" I try to remove their hands, but I know they're Emilia's hands. "Are you going to give me a hug, Emilia?" I think I know where this is going.
"How did you know it was me?" Emilia approaches me without releasing her hands. Her fingers have that strange combination of cold and warmth due to the mana emanating from them.
At first, it feels cold, but then it's warm and comforting.
"I would recognize you even without seeing or feeling you," I reply with a smile. Her hands warm up a bit, as if they had reacted to my words.
"You're a fool," exclaims Emilia, probably blushing like a tomato. She guides me to the courtyard, opening the doors. There, several scents invade my nose, and I can smell the aroma of grilled meat, among others.
Emilia halted in her tracks, her voice barely above a whisper as she leaned in close to my ear.
"A while back, you told Betty how birthdays were celebrated in your world," she murmurs softly, her hands retreating slowly. "While our ingredients may differ, we've tried to recreate something similar." With a tender smile, she adds, "Happy Birthday, Marco."
I stood there, a mixture of surprise and emotion washing over me as I surveyed the scene before me. Emilia, along with Crusch, Luan, Ram, Roswaal, and the little girl whose warm smile grace the gathering, has poured my hearts into this celebration.
A smile tug at my lips. It has been more than seven years since I last marked my birthday and witnessing such an effort felt undeniably comforting. The exact date may have been uncertain, but in that moment, it mattered little.
I haven't always been one for birthday festivities; there was a time when the mere thought of this occasion filled me with disdain. Yet, seeing Emilia and my princess carefully organize this event fill me with a profound sense of joy and tranquility.
Roswaal's presence is apart, their earnest efforts surpassed any expectations I harbored.
A rustic barbecue, reminiscent of my homeland's rural traditions, infused the air with an authentic charm, albeit lacking the accompaniment of music.
"Happy birthday, Marco," Crusch offered, drawing near, and clasping my hand. "Seize this moment, revel in it, and make the most of your day."
Ram, with a hint of annoyance in her gaze, even so graced the gathering with her presence.
"Thank you for being here," I express my gratitude to her, prompting a theatrical gesture as she pointed towards a platter of potatoes with a smile gracing her lips.
"Better make sure you eat all those potatoes, or you'll have to pay for it during training," she jokes, flashing me a playful, arrogant smile. "So, you can't accuse this lovely lady of treating you with disdain."
I know Ram won't change, no matter what happens, but that's something that doesn't make me unhappy. She and I share a special relationship, playing and bantering with each other.
"Steamed potatoes, huh? Looks like you put a lot of effort into this," I say with a sincere smile.
Meanwhile, Roswaal observes me with an enigmatic smile, hiding his emotions as usual. Although, who knows, maybe he's genuinely happy.
Truth be told, I don't care.
"It's a blessing to have you here, so I hope you appreciate my little gift," says Roswaal as he produces a small wooden box, emitting an elegant and mysterious aura.
I take the box and carefully open it to reveal a necklace. It's a small necklace with a drop-shaped purple crystal that seems delicate but emits a strange energy.
"This is a protection necklace, an artifact created by my family," explains Roswaal. "It will protect you in a dangerous situation."
As the night progresses, and the celebration continues, I can't help but feel grateful for this unexpected and touching gesture from my friends, and Roswaal. The suspense in the air mixes with the gratitude in my heart as I enjoy this unforgettable birthday.
As I put on the necklace, I feel a reaction at my door, as if it had somehow linked to it. It's a strange effect, but the mana flow seems to remain normal.
"Thank you; it seems quite practical," I express my gratitude towards Roswaal.
Luan gazes at me with a gentle smile. Our relationship is intricate; I serve as her mentor while also maintaining a degree of distance to nurture her independence.
Have I taken on a parental role? It's hard to articulate.
"Happy birthday," she says, meeting my eyes directly, her aura exuding warmth. The weight of her mana is tangible, and unlike six months ago, she now exhibits greater mastery over it.
Unfortunately, I couldn't shield Luan from Roswaal's awareness. Yet, it appears he remains unaware of her unique heritage.
I've refrained from broaching the topic of miasma, but Luan has been honing her skills under Roswaal's tutelage, refining her fire magic and mana control. While I've attempted to impart my knowledge, her grasp of electronics and physics complicates matters, yielding less-than-ideal results.
Currently, only I possess the ability to manipulate mana in this manner, though Emilia also anticipates surprises. Nonetheless, I'm confident the academy's students will eventually master it.
As expected, Luan has made significant progress. Her magic intertwines closely with her emotions, a trait typical of formidable fire mages, according to Roswaal. Her potential surges when her emotions surpass a certain threshold. Yet, Roswaal admits he's never encountered a case quite like Luan's.
Fate has intertwined our paths, compelling us to forge ahead together along this uncertain journey.
"Thank you. It's wonderful to see you here," I express, my hand gently caressing her head with tenderness.
Though she appears slightly uneasy, she doesn't resist the gesture. Luan possesses a strong personality, yet she also carries an underlying kindness and consideration.
Having lost her family, and uncertain about her mother's fate, providing her with a better life is the least I can do.
She's the only one left, my daughter. While she seems content now, a moment ago, she was pouting because I hadn't attended to her first.
"I kept the best for last," I lean in towards her, narrowing my eyes and offering a warm smile. "Come, let me give you a hug."
I open my arms, and she rushes into them, embracing me tightly. This moment evokes memories of the first time I managed to touch her heart. I feel as though my mind and soul have fully embraced her.
She's my daughter, regardless of her spiritual nature.
I couldn't perceive her any other way, and her happiness means everything to me. Witnessing her joy makes me feel like the most powerful and contented man alive. She soothes my worries and struggles, propelling me forward with renewed determination.
She's the heartbeat of my soul.
To think that I can hold her like this, to feel this warmth of love, is an unparalleled sensation. It's akin to the love my parents bestowed upon me, and the unyielding resolve the elders held until their final breaths.
Both imparted distinct aspects of parental love upon me. My parents taught me love, the drive to grow, and the resilience of spirit.
The elderly couple, Kenichi, and Naoko exemplified the profound sacrifices of parenthood. Kenichi scaled mountains, delved into politics, and fought tirelessly to locate his son. Naoko stood as a steadfast support for Kenichi, yet in the end, they both couldn't fulfill their dream.
It makes me wonder if that person is out there somewhere, whether in this world or another.
"Betty loves you very, very much, in fact. Betty will always cherish you as her dearest knight, I suppose" Beatrice murmurs, nuzzling her face against my chest, holding me tightly. "Happy birthday, you'll forever be the knight Betty treasures the most, in fact."
Her warmth extinguishes any trace of uncertainty within me, forging an unbreakable connection. She's irreplaceable, absolutely indispensable to me.
"Your affection fills my heart with joy," I whisper, tenderly caressing her head with my fingers as I gaze up at the sky, as if seeking solace in the beautiful sunset.
I still keenly feel the absence of my parents. I wish I could proudly introduce my dear daughter to them. I'm certain my father would be the first to sweep her into his arms, while my mother would go wild taking pictures and taking her on outings.
I always wanted to see them both happy.
That's why I hate my birthday.
But today, in this moment, I suppose I can find a glimmer of affection for this date.
I head towards the grill, a simple iron utensil. The meat sizzles over the glowing charcoal, filling the air with an intoxicating aroma. This scent transports me to the past when I used to be here with my friends and family. A past that will never return, but one I cherish in my memories.
I pile more meat onto the grill, savoring the symphony of crackling flames harmonizing with the natural soundscape around us.
"In your world, beer reigns supreme. We brought a variety from the capital," Emilia announces, unveiling a box brimming with magically chilled beer bottles.
I pop open a bottle, finding solace in the hiss of escaping gas. Even if it lacks the same effervescence as in my world, right now, it's all I need. I relish the prickling sensation in my throat, fully embracing the moment.
"Delicious, thank you," I express, nodding to Emilia, who takes a sip of her own beer.
She squints momentarily, as if the bitterness catches her off guard.
"It's a bit strong," Emilia remarks, soldiering through her sip.
Seems the bitterness isn't quite to her liking.
"Seems it's too bitter for your palate," I observe, clinking my bottle against hers. "Cheers."
Emilia and I take hearty swigs before passing the beers around to the others.
Returning to the grill, I embrace my role as the grill master. Beatrice hands me the beers while I tend to the meat and fixings.
"As the birthday boy, shouldn't you take a breather?" Crusch quips, approaching with an enigmatic smile.
I decline with determination as I watch Emilia and Luan engage in lively conversation.
"In my homeland, it's a tradition passed down through generations, whether it's your birthday or not," I explain while chopping some vegetables to accompany the meat sizzling on the grill. "And I must admit, I quite enjoy it."
Crusch and I clink our beer bottles and take a silent sip, sharing a companionship that needs no words as we observe the others enjoying the gathering.
"There's something I prepared, I believe I have it in my room," I hand the barbecue fork to Crusch and make my way to my bedroom.
At this moment, I have something that can add a special touch to the gathering, though unfortunately, it's only suitable for four people. Upon returning, I notice everyone's surprise as they see the unfamiliar pieces, I bring with me.
Only Beatrice and Emilia are familiar with this.
"I want to play!" Emilia exclaims excitedly, running towards me.
After bringing it out, I serve the food, and everyone feels eager. Roswaal mentioned he only wanted to observe, so Luan, Crusch, Emilia, and Ram will be the participants.
Personally, I have no interest in playing; watching is enough for me.
Beatrice sits on my lap, and together we watch as the game begins. It's a rather popular game from my time, ludo, where with two dice, you must move four pieces across the board, navigating obstacles and opponents to reach the safety zone.
The game begins as Emilia rolls the dice, and Roswaal watches with a contented expression, as if relishing the calm before a storm. I can't help but ponder his plans, for Roswaal's mind is an enigma I cannot fully decipher.
Despite possessing the ability to glimpse the future thanks to the Book of Wisdom, that capacity has its limits.
In the novel, even though he abandoned his dreams after his vision of the future was shattered, I sense there's more to his decision. I can't fathom someone giving up an effort of over 400 years overnight for something seemingly simple.
Beatrice settles beside me, her eyes fixed on the game's progress as we savor the minced meat.
"You always manage to make everything taste exceptional," Beatrice comments, offering me a piece of meat which I gladly accept.
I watch as Crusch takes the lead in the game, her pieces steadily advancing, while Ram, on the other hand, seems trapped in a string of rolls without getting any pairs.
"Damn dice..." Ram grits her teeth, clearly frustrated by her bad luck.
I can't resist the temptation to tease her a bit.
"Seems like little sister's having some bad luck," I comment, earning a disgruntled glare from Ram.
The game continues, and Luan stands out by taking the lead, while Emilia works on a strategy to group all her pieces in one area of the board. While Emilia's strategy is not without merit, Luan's seems to be more effective.
With determination, Luan moves one of her pieces forward, strategically using the lower numbers on her dice to maneuver the others. This clever tactic enables her to send several of the other players' pieces back to the starting point.
"The winner gets an extra-large slice of dessert," I declare, sparking a surge of competitive energy among us all.
The dessert, procured from the capital, is akin to a coveted treasure—a cake adorned with a luscious glaze. Emilia mentions they had to pre-order it to ensure its timely arrival for this special occasion.
The competition intensifies; what began as a casual game now escalates into a fierce battle for victory. Each player is wholly focused on beating the others, and even Crusch appears to relish the newfound intensity, evident in her typically serious and composed demeanor.
As anticipated, Luan emerges triumphant. Emilia and Crusch come in a close second, their positions nearly tied, while Ram, despite her valiant efforts, once again finds herself stopped by one of Luan's strategic moves, ultimately landing in last place.
"Tsh!" Ram shoots Luan a disdainful look, but Luan merely responds with a defiant smile.
Emilia bows her head slightly, a hint of disappointment evident as the number she needed appears after a prolonged series of attempts.
Though the competition draws to a close, the atmosphere remains charged with intense emotions and palpable rivalry. It serves as a reminder that even amidst the tensest moments, the spirit of friendly competition can unite people in a spirited and lively contest.
As we savor the dessert, I notice Emilia beginning to succumb to the effects of alcohol. I'm about to intervene and stop her when someone places a bottle in front of me, challenging me with an arrogant gaze.
"We have a bet to fulfill," says Ram, a playful smirk on her face as she deftly opens the wine bottle. "Or are you afraid?"
Without hesitation, I take the wine bottle and hold it, meeting Ram's determined gaze.
"Then, let's pick up where we left off last time."
We start drinking, and as we progress, the others gather around to witness the showdown. My body, more accustomed to mana than before, grants me a resilience that makes me feel confident I can prevail this time.
After five bottles, I notice Ram's cheeks turning slightly red, while I struggle to maintain my balance. These bottles are much stronger than the ones we consumed on that occasion.
"I thought you wouldn't last this long," I comment, looking at Ram as I uncork the next bottle.
When we reach the tenth bottle, both of us begin to sway slightly. I approach Ram, who surprisingly seems unaffected by the alcohol.
I can't afford to lose. I start channeling mana within me, using its energy to maintain my focus and resist the effects of the alcohol.
The fifteenth bottle marks a turning point. We look at each other, but our gazes blur into a haze. I can only make out figures a few meters away. Ram and I raise our bottles again, leaning on each other for support to stay balanced.
Ram's gaze glimmers with a spark of amusement.
"You won't beat me this time," she says, smiling, aware that I'm more affected than she is.
Damn demon. I, a mere human, feel like my stomach is about to betray me under the onslaught of alcohol.
"Damn demon," I mutter as I grab my last bottle and finally slump to the ground, acknowledging her victory.
Ram exhales proudly, while Beatrice approaches me and employs her magic to alleviate the effects of the alcohol.
"You're a fool, it's obvious her body is more resilient than yours, in fact," she remarks disdainfully.
The notion of intoxication crosses my mind, but with healing magic available, it shouldn't be a problem.
The night has progressed considerably, and Roswaal and Ram bid farewell, indicating it's time to retire. Emilia, seated, gazes blankly at the sky. It seems the alcohol has left its mark on her.
Luan says her goodbyes and departs, leaving only Crusch and me. About an hour ago, I saw Beatrice looking somewhat fatigued and suggested she go rest; she agreed, so now it's just Crusch and me.
"I never imagined I'd be here, in the courtyard of the Mathers mansion, celebrating a birthday," Crusch says, gazing at the sky. Her voice betrays a certain affectation from the alcohol. "Throughout my life, I considered these kinds of events unnecessary, mere formalities that shouldn't touch my heart as long as I pursued my goal."
Crusch smiles and extends her hand towards me.
"But seeing how you approach things, I begin to question if my approach was wrong," she continues, locking eyes with me. "You seek to achieve your goals by finding happiness in every moment, allowing experiences to enrich your heart."
"Reaching a goal shouldn't mean being unhappy all the time. If that happens, it only indicates that you're following the wrong path," I reply, placing my hand on her cheek and gazing intensely at her.
Though I can't see her clearly in this moment, we're both here, sharing this moment.
Crusch is a strong person with whom I've trained and worked hard. Our minds are often in sync, leading to similar decisions.
Crusch looks at the hand resting on her cheek and smiles.
"I thought you were the shy type, but looking into your eyes, you seem dangerous."
"Shy?" I murmur, letting the emotion of the moment envelop us, as the suspense in the air intensifies.
I use Murak to make her lose balance, carefully catching her and laying her down on the grass, staying above her.
Her eyes widen with surprise as I gaze down at her with a confident smile. I lean in close to her ear, and she places her hands on my chest.
"If you wish, let me show you how far I can go," I whisper into her ear, caressing her cheek.
I know I'm influenced by alcohol, but honestly, I don't see any issue. If she accepts it, I wouldn't have a reason to refuse. Although there's no romantic attraction between us, that doesn't mean anything. The problem lies elsewhere.
"I...," Crusch looks surprised by the situation. It seems she rejects any display of affection towards her, perhaps the way relationships are perceived in this world is different.
What troubles me is that in this world, there are no contraceptive methods. I've tried to develop them, but so far, I've had no success. This complicates the perception of sexual relationships here since they tend to be something shared with your partner, precisely due to the lack of contraceptive methods.
The day I find latex, I'll be a millionaire.
Perhaps I shouldn't proceed, but I don't want to stop now; it's been a long time since an opportunity like this presented itself, especially with someone as beautiful as Crusch.
She seems undecided. After a few seconds, I see she's about to speak, but at that moment, a violent push sends me crashing to the ground. I roll at full speed, using my wind and Murak magic to stop myself.
"Don't do it!" Emilia exclaims, her hands clenched tightly.
I rise, surprised by the intensity of the blow. I feel like the effects of alcohol have completely faded. I look towards Emilia and see a tear streaming down her face.
At my reaction, she runs and enters the mansion. The suspense in the air cuts like a sharp knife.
I glance towards Crusch, who also seems taken aback by the unfolding situation, only to let out a heavy sigh mingled with a faint smile.
"You understand what's happening, don't you?" Crusch's voice cuts through the tension, her gaze locked on mine as she rises to her feet.
With the gravity of the moment, there's no room for misinterpretation.
It's the scenario I always dreaded would come to pass.
"Yes, I'm aware," I reply, my tone unwavering as I make a beeline for Emilia's room. I know she sought refuge there. Upon entering, I find the door slightly ajar, so I gently push it open and step inside, letting it close behind me.
Emilia sits perched on her bed, her gaze fixed downward, lost in contemplation. I approach her cautiously, knowing the delicacy of the situation.
I understand that the moment calls for careful navigation; the decision I make here can't be hastily crafted in pursuit of some abstract notion of the greater good.
I... I'm conflicted. My affection for Emilia runs deep, especially for the Emilia standing before me now.
But it's a different kind of affection—one that doesn't necessarily translate into romantic interest. At least not in this moment, not with the weight of my responsibilities pressing down on me like a suffocating blanket.
"I'm being selfish..." Emilia's voice is barely above a whisper, her hands tightly clasped on the bedspread.
"On the contrary, you've done me a favor," I murmur softly, sinking to one knee to gently grasp one of Emilia's hands. "Why did you intervene?"
Now more than ever, I need her to open up, to articulate the tumult of emotions swirling within her, to confront the complex truth of her feelings.
"I...," Emilia lifts her gaze to meet mine, her eyes betraying a hint of sorrow beneath the veil of alcohol-induced haze, her ears flushed crimson. "I... when I saw you both, I felt something indescribable."
Tears begin to well in her eyes, and I gently wipe them away with my thumbs before easing her back onto the bed, positioning myself above her. It's clear she's struggling to make sense of it all.
"I love you, Marco, I love you so much..." Emilia envelops me in a tight embrace, pulling me closer to her. "That's why I don't want anyone to take you away from me."
Taken aback by her sudden confession, I blink, searching for the right words to respond.
"But... I don't know in what way I love you," Emilia closes her eyes, her grip tightening. "That's why I feel selfish, I feel guilty for pushing you away."
I sigh, finally understanding the depth of her feelings.
"Plus, we're in such a complicated situation, we have so many responsibilities that focusing on this makes me feel guilty," Emilia eases her hold slightly. "Is it wrong for me to feel this way?"
I shake my head, maintaining a smile on my face, though I know I'm being a complete hypocrite.
"I don't think it's wrong, but for now, it's true that we have many things to do," I lean in close to her ear and whisper, "When you figure it out, let me know. I promise I'll give you an answer."
She nods, accepting my words. If she's in love with me, then I'll have to address those feelings at some point. I can't afford to be blinded by romance.
I've made that mistake in the past.
"I..." Emilia cups my cheeks in her hands. "Do you know?"
Emilia looks at me with a smile, still flushed, as if she's been freed from all the chains that bound her.
"When I told you I would do anything for you, even give up being queen..." Emilia closes her eyes.
"Yes, I remember."
"I said it because I'm certain that if I'm with you, I can achieve all my goals," Emilia opens her eyes and leans closer to me. "I feel like I have a strength that will never stop me if I'm by your side."
Emilia moves her face closer, and our lips draw nearer. I can feel her breath, and the only light illuminating us is the moonlight.
She keeps her eyes closed, while I struggle internally about what I should do. Emilia is beautiful, both in personality and appearance; she could captivate anyone.
But for me, this is not the right moment for this.
It's already surprising that she's taking the initiative; it shows how much she's grown.
People learn from each other; she's interacted much more, gained more confidence, and that has led her to want to do more, to think better, to live better.
I use all my strength to hold back, causing her to open her eyes. When she does, I move quickly, causing our noses to bump.
We both stay in that position for several seconds, feeling the mutual warmth. Emilia hugs me tightly, trapping me in her arms.
"Sleep with me tonight," she whispers in my ear.
"You know someone's waiting." Yes, a little girl.
"We can all sleep together!" she exclaims cheerfully, leaning her arms for me to pick her up.
I lift Emilia as if she were a princess in my arms. Her arms wrap around my neck as she hugs me tenderly.
"I feel, very, very happy to have you, Marco," Emilia whispers those words sweetly, pressing herself closer to my chest. "Thank you for being born."
My heart feels like it wants to escape my chest upon hearing her words. The emotion feels like a drum reverberating inside me. As I hold her in my arms, I notice Emilia sighing and drifting into a peaceful sleep.
Perhaps, just perhaps...
No, I must stay focused. These words make me incredibly happy, but they also awaken a sea of thoughts and emotions within me.
Then, I enter the library and see her, Beatrice, looking at me with clear pouts on her face.
"You took your time, I suppose," Beatrice grumbles with some anger, though her anger makes her look as adorable as a doll.
I smile at seeing her. Despite her annoyance, Beatrice possesses an undeniable charm.
"Angry or not, you still look beautiful." I head towards the bed and arrange Emilia to sleep comfortably.
Later, I lie down, and Beatrice immediately hugs me, smiling as she gradually dims the room's light.
"Hehehe." Beatrice hugs me tightly. "I wish Betty could always be like this with you in fact."
We always sleep together, but I understand her feelings. Returning her embrace, I let her warm affection engulf me, which reassures me and helps me drift off to sleep amidst this situation filled with mystery and emotion.
Tomorrow I will talk to Miklotov. From tomorrow onwards, I will have to focus on the war. I don't know how much time we'll have before it begins.
But if what they want is war.
War they shall have.