Finally, on the morning of the scheduled wedding ceremony, Rensley woke up early. Instead of lingering in bed, he swiftly got out and headed towards the window, bypassing the luxurious curtains. When he pushed aside the curtains and opened the window, a refreshing and cool breeze swept inside. Spring had arrived, and the morning outside was already bright with sunlight. Perhaps due to a major event at the royal palace, there were already many people bustling about.
Rensley leaned on the windowsill, gazing down. With the window open, the voices of people below, busy and cheerful in preparation for the upcoming wedding ceremony, reached his ears. There were people carrying various items in small carts, others crossing the garden with bouquets and watering cans, and several individuals swiftly unfolding a narrow cloth together. There were also children playing in a corner, setting aside the busy adults. A child, who had been squatting with friends and drawing on the ground, suddenly lifted his head as if sensing someone’s gaze. The child stood up and waved towards Rensley, who extended his hand in return.
“Your Grace, have you risen?”
Though a familiar scene, it felt new today. As he gazed endlessly, a familiar voice followed the knocking sound. Rensley turned around with a smile.
“You’ve risen early. Did you sleep well last night?”
“Yes, my lady. And you?”
“I made sure not to make any mistakes and rested well. Since time is short, it’s better to hurry with the preparations. No matter how early you start preparing for the wedding ceremony, it always gets busier later.”
Today, several attendants entered the Duchess’s room, which had been quietly visited by the Duchess alone in the past. The fresh fragrance of flowers, just picked for arranging in the vase, delicately filled the air.
In order to properly welcome the new Duchess, the attendants had made thorough preparations. Rensley, receiving their assistance, bathed and emerged in a thin robe to begin dressing. Unlike usual, having several people fussing over his appearance felt somewhat awkward. Rensley murmured to Lady Samlet.
“It’s because it’s the wedding ceremony today. Usually, I can handle this much on my own.”
“We can think about how you’ll handle the usual receptions after the wedding ceremony is over.”
The carefully prepared engagement attire was waiting for Rensley. In contrast to Gezell’s black suit, Rensley’s engagement attire was made from white fabric. Gezell had suggested that the simple white color would complement Rensley’s blond hair and violet eyes. Rensley agreed. Black and white side by side didn’t seem bad at all. Moreover, with embroidered touches of blue and accessories, the otherwise plain white outfit looked somewhat splendid.
There was no veil covering his face this time. On the long cloak, the same inscription as on Gezell’s cloak, was embroidered the emblem of the Aldrant royal family. Rensley thought the formal attire might be simpler than a dress, but the numerous buttons, bows, and the need to pay attention to the arrangement of the fabric made it even more time-consuming than the first wedding ceremony where he wore a dress. Although he expected the second time to be more relaxed, standing as Rensley Maelrosen in the position of the Duchess brought a hint of tension, especially since it was his first time.
“Your Grace, a guest has arrived.”
“A guest?”
“They said if I say they came from the forest, you will probably know.”
The attendant looked at Rensley with a puzzled expression, not understanding the words. A guest from the forest on the day of the Duke’s wedding ceremony, not a viscount or marquis? However, Rensley reflected and responded.
“Quickly bring them inside.”
Before long, the guest entered the Duchess’s room. The elegant wolf, with her platinum hair spread gracefully, smiled.
“Master! You’ve come.”
[I wanted to check the results of our lessons.]
“Thank you. And besides you…”
The wolf was not alone. She had brought two more guests, one of whom looked unfamiliar to Rensley. A boy about ten years old with gray hair and black skin, and the other person was…
“How have you been, Amin? Doing well in your studies?”
“Of course. I was first in the first exam.”
“Wow, that’s impressive. Well, he’s a recognized genius even by His Grace.”
Meeting Amin after a long time, he seemed completely healthy. There was a faint scar on his neck, but it wasn’t too noticeable.
The wolf seemed interested in Amin, who freely wielded magic that was rarely seen in the human realm at such a young age, so she decided to bring him along. Rensley thought it would be difficult to meet in the future if she was taking him to the forest, but the wolf took Amin to a magical academy where an experienced sorcerer served as the headmaster.
Rensley had already received several letters from Amin sent from there. Although he complained that the magical academy was as stifling as a monastery, he seemed to enjoy it. Studying diligently under a strict teacher was better for Amin’s future than being exploited and not receiving any money under someone like Felix.
His feelings toward Felix still seemed complex. It was natural that he couldn’t easily shake off the betrayal of someone he had followed so sincerely. It might take a long time to find the answer, but eventually, Rensley thought he would come to terms with it in his own way. There were emotions that couldn’t be called love or hate, Rensley, who had been marginalized by his blood relatives for a short lifetime, knew that much.
Initially, he had expressed concern about sending a child so far away on his own, but after the wolf revealed her inner thoughts, Rensley became quiet. The wolf had decided to observe Amin, who seemed to excel in magical talent, instead of investigating Gezell, who had a summoning creature. There’s a way to give to everyone if you have something, and there’s a way to receive as well. If the best results came out for everyone, Rensley had to know how to be satisfied.
Rensley shifted his gaze to the boy he was meeting for the first time.
“And on this side…”
[Isn’t this your first time meeting me like this? My son, Oron.]
“Ah!”
Rensley opened his surprised eyes. That little pup, no, the wolf had already grown this much? Startled, Rensley blinked his eyes but quickly burst into laughter.
“You’re growing up really quickly. I appreciate your help back then, Prince Oron.”
[Congratulations on your marriage, Rensley.]
We’re sorry for MTLers or people who like using reading mode, but our translations keep getting stolen by aggregators so we’re going to bring back the copy protection. If you need to MTL please retype the gibberish parts.
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“Even a gift! Thank you very much.”
[When I grow up more, please consider making me your second companion.]
“Hmm?”
Surprised, Rensley widened his eyes, and the white wolf chuckled.
[Sometimes I say interesting things because I’m still young. When I grow up a bit more, I might want to cancel what I said on my own, so leave it be.]
“Haha! Indeed, when I was young, I asked several vibrant court ladies to marry me later. It brings back old memories. I also proposed with flowers.”
Rensley whispered to the white wolf and affectionately tousled the prince’s hair.
“Really beautiful. Here, there are only flowers that don’t wither.”
[Can you distinguish them just by looking now?]
“Yes. The flowers here and there are different.”
Before the wolf could suggest, he comfortably sat in the most convenient chair, looked around the room, and scanned Rensley, who was dressed in wedding attire, from top to bottom.
[Seems like you’ve gained quite a status. Until recently, people were opposing your wedding. Has that issue been resolved?]
“Not completely, but there are no problems proceeding with the wedding ceremony. As for the child issue, we can’t solve it ourselves, so we’ll have to continue carrying it with us in the future. We can’t have children because we’re both men. Usually, the king would want a direct heir, but that’s not something that can be done with manpower alone.”
[Why can’t you have children? I haven’t mated with a male either.]
“Well, because the Lord of the Forest is a superior being compared to humans. We humans are much more… physical animals.”
While Rensley was answering with a cool smile, the attendants who had been waiting urged him.
“Your Grace, you must start preparing now.”
“Oh, has the time already come?”
Without finishing the conversation with the wolf, Rensley looked at the guests.
“Shall we go? His Grace is also waiting.”
People streamed out of the Duke’s room. The guards standing in the corridor smiled and saluted Rensley. Smiling back, he replied and descended the stairs. The noise of people gathered in the hall could already be heard.
As he entered the central hall, where preparations for the wedding ceremony were complete, everyone’s gaze turned towards Rensley. The blond young man in formal attire received greetings from everyone, and Rensley smiled and shook hands in return. Gezell, who had been waiting and walking towards them, was observed by Rensley with a smile.
“Truly noble and beautiful.”
Because of his fiancé’s immediate commentary upon standing together, Rensley chuckled softly, almost inaudibly. Drawing closer, he whispered.
“We should hold hands first.”
At that remark, Gezell quickly extended his hand. Rensley placed his hand on top of Gezell’s. The hand of the Northern Lord was warm again today. It was only then that Rensley noticed the wooden brooch in the shape of a bear pinned to his neck. Surprised, Rensley widened his eyes.
“No, did you really attach this to the wedding attire?”
“It’s a gift from you, and there’s no day more suitable than today.”
Rensley shrugged and half-smiled as if giving up.
Even though it was their second wedding, there was no precedent for performing wedding ceremonies with the same person. Among the nobles who initially claimed they wouldn’t attend, many seemed unable to overcome their curiosity about the male Duchess. Of course, there were still those who opposed until the end without showing their faces.
The celebratory song sung by the choir resonated up to the high ceiling. In the crowded hall, the central stage awaited the couple. The two about to become an official couple walked towards it, holding hands tightly. The sound of metal hitting metal, creating empty goblets, echoed grandly through the hall once again.
As the two individuals bowed in front of the officiator, the wedding ceremony finally commenced.
“Gezell Jivendad, the Guardian of Aldrant. The one who governs the Black Forest and the Silver River, submitting to the sacred duty of rule. Do you agree to the union of souls to take place today?”
“I agree.”
As the Duke responded, the officiator turned his head towards Rensley.
“Rensley Maelrosen, companion of Roudken. The one who cares for the Ice Mountain and solid ground, accompanying the Guardian’s path. Do you agree to the union of souls to take place today?”
“I agree.”
Unlike before, Rensley answered in his own voice this time. Behind the veil that covered his entire face, Rensley involuntarily smiled, recalling the false vows made last winter with a magically disguised voice.
Various procedures followed, and this time, a “sacred fire” was placed in front of the couple. Rensley could now casually place his hand in the fire.
After all the procedures were completed, it was time for the final step, amending the marriage vow document. This marked Rensley Maelrosen’s eternal existence in the records of Aldrant. Gezell first wrote his name in black ink.
<Gezell Jivendad>
Receiving the pen, Rensley wrote his name in a completely different, unmatched handwriting.
<Rensley Maelrosen>
Looking down at the marriage vow document with his name, Rensley’s heart fluttered anew.
Rensley Maelrosen. The given name to a commoner who couldn’t bear the title of the royal family. Rensley had lived thinking this was his maternal family name, but in reality, it wasn’t certain. He hadn’t made an effort to confirm it, fearing it would only feel empty if he heard that it wasn’t.
Now, it didn’t matter. This name would be remembered as the name of Duke Gezell Jivendad’s Duchess, not a servant of the Cornia royal family.
“Open the doors!”
The grand main gate of the castle opened. The choir singing congratulations sounded softer and brighter than when they entered.
To witness the scene where the legendary story of the male Duchess was being reproduced, the citizens gathered more than ever before. However, the fervent cheers from the first wedding ceremony were absent. Instead, the atmosphere was filled with skeptical and curious gazes, along with the murmurs that disturbed the spacious hall.
Yet, Rensley remained composed. He calmly accepted a pendant shaped like a trumpet and pinned it to his clothes, just like back then. His violet eyes, with a hint of blue, scanned the audience first and then the clear sky and surroundings. His composed voice flowed after meeting their gazes one by one.
“When I first stood here, all that I had heard about Aldrant was that it only is an extremely cold country.”
“Wow, the voice is definitely that of a man!” Someone exclaimed in surprise, and it seemed like the astonishment echoed.
“However, with the warm welcome, I didn’t feel the cold, and as I mentioned, Aldrant seemed like the warmest country on the continent to me. During the winter spent in Aldrant, those words became a truthful reality for me.”
“…”
“I may not have skills as outstanding as the Duke’s, but I want to express my gratitude by returning the warmth I received from all of you. Right here, right now.”
Saying so, Rensley raised both hands. As he closed his eyes and spoke quietly, the audience, without realizing it, directed their gazes along his fingertips, and a burst of admiration erupted among them.
“Look at that! What’s going on? Is the Grand Duchess also a sorcerer?”
The murmurs grew, eventually turning into cheers. People laughed, marveled, and eventually, they applauded, showering the Grand Duchess with praise. It was only then that Rensley opened his eyes.
On the balcony, on the castle walls, and on the pillars of the colonnade, flowers suddenly bloomed on the vines that surrounded them. Numerous and beautiful flower clusters, too many to remember each name, blossomed all at once.
The Roudken Grand Castle, which had vines entwined just moments ago, transformed into a spring temple rather than the stern fortress of the North. When a gentle breeze blew, the rich fragrance mingled with the air, creating a delightful atmosphere. People in Aldrant, who had rarely seen such a scene even during the ripest spring, set aside their initial caution and marveled at the sight. Some even exclaimed it was a miracle of Adriel, the Goddess.
“It worked.”
The tension in Rensley’s tightly clenched heart gradually subsided. What had just occurred was a technique practiced with the forest wolves to prepare for the wedding ceremony. While he had practiced diligently, handling such a large number of spirits simultaneously was something he had never attempted before, and failure was not out of the question.
He considered it a success even if only half of them bloomed, but nearly all of them did. Even the spirits of the northern lands seemed to be celebrating their marriage, boosting Rensley’s confidence completely. After the cheers that had resonated as if echoing throughout the entire city began to subside, he spoke again.
“I’ve heard rumors that the tale of Duke and me has been circulating as a song. I haven’t heard it yet, but they say it has received favorable reviews. I think many of you might be curious about the details.”
And once again, he smiled broadly while looking around the audience.
“Now, everyone in Aldrant will get to see the sequel!”
“To the eternal blessings of the Guardian of the Continent and his companion!”
People responded loudly, their voices filled with newfound loyalty and affection. Even if these emotions were momentary, it was enough for today. With an unchanged smile on his face, Rensley, having gracefully completed his greetings, stepped back.
While the Duchess, who had just finished the wedding ceremony, greeted the citizens, some knights who were on guard duty couldn’t contain their laughter, and the sound of stifled chuckles could be heard from behind. Rensley, standing next to Gezell, whispered to him.
“Was it too audacious? Should I have displayed more dignity as the Duchess?”
“Your modest charm came across well.”
The music flowing inside and outside the castle became lively. The celebration had begun.
Inside the blossoming spring walls, people began to dance, each smiling like a flower. Nobles who had been waiting inside the banquet hall surrounded Rensley and Gezell, offering their congratulations.
“Rensley, congratulations! May you be truly happy from now on!”
“We entrust Aldrant to you, Duchess.”
Ivet and Freida, beautifully dressed for the occasion, consecutively offered their blessings. For these two who had been of great help, there would be another occasion to express gratitude after the busy festivities ended. The same applied to Anton, who was busy commanding the knights, and Stan, who was guarding the area.
“Aren’t you going to dance today, Ivet?”
“I will. But as you can see, Sorel, the commander, is still too busy. We have plenty of time, so I’ll wait a bit.”
After exchanging pleasantries with several people, Gezell and Rensley sat side by side, observing the festive scene in the banquet hall. Instead of joining the dance, Rensley, exhausted from greeting people and conjuring flowers, needed a brief respite.
It was enjoyable just watching people in high spirits. While tapping their toes to the music, Rensley and Gezell, without dancing, sat and looked at the lively scene. Gezell, feeling the excitement of the crowd, leaned towards Rensley.
“How about calling that poet to perform in front of us? We should hear it at least once, don’t you think?”
“Really? Wouldn’t it be a bit embarrassing for us, the parties involved?”
Gezell shrugged nonchalantly. “Why not? He played a significant role in the success of the wedding, so a reward is in order. The title was quite long, though.”
“It’s called <The Tale of the Southern Prince Rensley Maelrosen’s Arrival in the Winter Fields and the Disguised Marriage with the Northern Duke >. According to Ivet, he emphasized my name more because the purpose of spreading the song was to make me known.”
“I never had much interest in poetry until now, but these titles are quite long.”
“Romantic poets get paid more for longer performances. That’s why they like to extend everything.”
“I thought it was because they were romantic people, but was it for economic reasons…”
“Later on, people will give the songs shorter titles. It always happens. This is economic, too.”
Rensley extended his hand, holding Gezell’s hand that rested on the armrest.
“Shall we dance a little? Everyone must be curious. How about a dance by the male couple?”
As Gezell and Rensley stood up from their chairs and made their way to the center of the hall, the people dancing created a space for them, stepping aside.
Although the two had danced here before, it was as the Duke and the fake Duchess. When the music, which Rensley had scheduled with the musicians in advance, began, Rensley and Gezell didn’t hesitate to lift their feet.
It wasn’t a dance that showcased the fluttering of a rich dress or extravagant gestures, but their movements, in harmony with the music, had a modesty that captivated the onlookers. Initially, the audience, who were prepared to laugh at the sight of two men dancing, soon became so engrossed that they couldn’t look away.
After already receiving plenty of attention in the palace, was it because of it that he had become immune? Or was it due to this being a celebration in Aldrant, now almost like his hometown? Although Rensley had only experienced dancing with a man in front of people twice, he moved gracefully and confidently, subtly leading Gezell with ease.
While dancing, Rensley imagined the next steps. What if he took Marilyn and went outside the fortress with the Duke, just like when he passed the knight order entrance exam? He had become closer to the spirit of his horse, Marilyn, during the Elementalist classes, even though communication seemed challenging at first.
It would be nice to greet the various people of Roudken, whom he couldn’t see during today’s wedding ceremony. It seemed like a good idea.
Amidst these thoughts, Gezell’s voice interrupted his musings. “It seems like you’re thinking about something else while dancing.”
“I apologize. I seem to be overwhelmed by emotions.”
“What are you thinking about?”
“I was thinking about what we should do after the banquet ends.”
Perhaps it would be nice to go outside the Duke’s castle and greet the people. Alternatively, they could spend the night guarding the banquet hall, chatting with people, or sharing a drink. Going back to their room early, leaving everyone behind, and creating a new evening mood wouldn’t be a bad idea.
As newlyweds, they could indulge in the privilege of sleeping in tomorrow, enjoying a leisurely breakfast in bed. Rensley thought about holding Gezell back tomorrow, preventing him from visiting the lab early. After brushing Marilyn in the stable, they could go to the library and spend time reading different books. They also needed to plan a visit to the various nobles in Aldrant before winter arrived.
Countless days would pass for the two in the future. After spring came a short summer, followed by a long winter. Until the day Rensley’s dream could be tested, Gezell, Rensley, and the people of Aldrant would stand as the shield to the north.
Even in the midst of these thoughts, life continued in the greenhouse with fruits and vegetables bathed in sunlight, flames dancing in the oven, and people going about their daily tasks. Rensley and Gezell would explore the yet-unseen lands of Aldrant together.
Human life is but a pebble in the vast stream, yet each pebble, one by one, changes shape and rearranges positions, altering the appearance of the world.
The first wedding was in the dead of winter, but now it was spring. A gentle breeze entered through the open windows of the hall, and the colors of the flowers conjured by Rensley adorned the Grand Castle more brilliantly than any mural or decoration. This time, Rensley whispered to Gezell first.
“Someday, I want to cover not only the castle but also the outside of it with flowers like this.”
As if recalling the kiss learned long ago, Gezell’s lips gently touched upon Rensley’s fingertips. It was as delicate as placing a kiss on a flower petal.
“I only built a small greenhouse for you, yet you bring me spring.”
“Well, that’s also your merit, isn’t it?”
May your season never end, then.
The Lord of Winter and Ice, along with the Elementalist of Thunder, made a wish, and as they turned a long road, spring embraced them in their arms, smiling.
<The End>
is this the end?? like seriously? Thanks for the chapter ❤️✨
Thank you for the great journey it was a pleasure to read yours translation ☺️
This book left in my mind a great story, I truly liked the dynamic of main characters and emotions showed by the author. Thank you! Hope to more great novels like this one!!! 🤩
Thank you for the reading journey ! Truly beautiful writing ^^
I enjoyed each new chapter, and I am looking for new adventure 😉
This is one of the best novels I have read. A good story, never boring, and the details made it so alive. Thank you so much for translating it ❤
Thank you for giving us this beautiful story. I really enjoyed it.