Since the first mention of the induction exam, Rensley’s new quarters had been planned to be the end room on the second floor. Unless there was anything special, he would use this room during the day and stay in the duchess’s bedroom from the evening after the schedule ended until the next morning.
Although Aldrant’s belongings were generally simple, the furnishings and the large bed in the Duchess’s bedroom were quite luxurious. In comparison, the guest room was modest and practical. Surprisingly, Rensley found this room cozier and to his liking.
Today, Gezell had brought a few mages to set up a magical teleportation device in Rensley’s new room. Through this device, Rensley could freely access the duke’s bedroom, his research lab, and the duchess’s bedroom.
After the mages left, Gezell explained the device to Rensley. Since Rensley was an ordinary person who had not learned how to collect or manipulate magic, he needed a magic stone for activation every time he used it. Gezell showed him how to attach the magic stone to the device and operate it, along with some precautions.
“Sir Maelrosen, magic may be difficult for someone who is not a mage at first. Some people may feel dizzy, and in severe cases, they might even vomit. Let’s hope you get used to it quickly.”
“It’s so fascinating.”
Rensley stared endlessly at the device created on one side of the room. In Cornia, using magical devices or tools for daily life was considered a luxury allowed only to the royal family, especially the king or the crown prince. To be able to use such a device himself was a surreal experience.
Although he had always been curious, Rensley had never approached magic so closely. Hearing Rensley’s explanation that he had never seen it up close, Gezell lightly tapped his chin and smiled.
“It seems Cornia doesn’t actively utilize magic. Nowadays, not only Aldrant but also in any country, if there are enough resources, even noble families research and develop magic. Why is that?”
Gezell’s words were true. Most rulers used magic to enhance their military power or for economic gain, rather than researching it for the welfare or convenience of the common people. The size of usable magic power and the workforce that could handle it were limited, and it couldn’t be distributed to all fields.
“Originally, Cornia wasn’t an anti-magic country. However, the current king of Cornia fears magic. The first queen consort’s family, whom he married in his youth, had a well-known mage lineage. They once tried to rebel. I think he fears that allowing magic might threaten the monarchy again.”
“The direction of thinking is misguided. Just because the family that attempted rebellion was from a mage lineage doesn’t mean they planned it because they were mages.”
“You’re right. Because of that, Cornia’s magical development has been delayed. It’s regrettable for me too, given the irrationality of these stories.”
Gezell had an expression that seemed to have heard an irrational story. Hmm. Rensley cleared his throat softly and approached him. Resolving the misunderstanding happening nearby was more important than dealing with faraway affairs.
“Your Grace, please have a seat for a moment. I have something to tell you.”
Following Rensley’s recommendation without any questions, Gezell lowered his body onto the chair in front of the table. Rensley also sat down in front of him.
As Rensley’s expression became serious, Gezell’s curiosity was piqued, and he quietly fixed his gaze on Rensley. Hesitating on how to start, Rensley finally decided to explain step by step.
“Your Grace, it hasn’t been too long since we held the wedding ceremony.”
“That’s right.”
“In people’s eyes, it might seem that we’ve been a married couple for quite some time.”
“Yes.”
“Even though I had to spend a night in your bedroom pretending to celebrate the wedding night, it would be challenging to deceive people to that extent. If it becomes apparent that the duke and duchess sleep separately at night… people might start suspecting various things. They might think there’s discord between the couple… and that could lead to concerns about the successor issue.”
Rensley hesitated to voice the suspicion that there might be an issue with either of their sexual functions.
Unable to bring himself to say such words, Rensley trailed off. “So, what I wanted to say is…”
Rensley swallowed dryly. While it was indeed a far-fetched assumption for a foreign knight, recently elevated to the position of a low-ranking knight through the Duke’s favor, to make such bold comments, he couldn’t ignore the fact that such rumors were circulating.
“Wouldn’t it be advisable to have someone to attend to your sleeping arrangements until you truly receive the Duchess?”
Gezell blinked, responding calmly as if he had heard an obvious remark. “I already have someone attending to my sleeping arrangements.”
“Oh, is that so? I was unaware…”
Rensley’s voice slightly increased in embarrassment, his face turning faintly red.
“What? You spoke without knowing?”
He regretted his words, feeling a desire to turn back time. In that moment of avoiding Gezell’s gaze with regret, Gezell continued his explanation.
“Sir Maelrosen, too, receives such services. Well, hasn’t Sir Maelrosen always been attending to it directly? I am not involved. The attendants tidy up the bed every night.”
“Really?”
Rensley’s eyes widened. A brief silence settled between them, broken by Rensley’s laughter.
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.
“No, Your Grace, I didn’t mean that.”
“Is there another kind of service?”
“Uh, well, you know… at night, I… on the bed…”
Struggling to use explicit expressions in front of him, Rensley hesitated and fumbled for words. It took a while, but Gezell’s gaze finally shifted to him. Seemingly understanding the meaning behind the words, Gezell narrowed his eyes.
“You’re talking about consummating the marriage.”
“Yes, that’s right. Since our wedding is fake, even using the term ‘formalize’ comes with its complications.”
Finally successful in communication, Rensley nodded with a flushed face. Among the nobility and royalty, having a wedding and consummating the marriage was not a flaw; it was a means to showcase wealth and power. Those who only remained faithful in their marital relations without consummating their marriage were often treated as a special case, not only in Cornia but in other regions as well.
The current King of Cornia, under the affection of his queen, had gone through several consummations. Even the consummations under his favor were numerous. Due to occasional extramarital affairs that reached even common women, and so, Rensley and Ivet were born.
Gezell Jivendad, too, was the king of this country. While a scandalous lifestyle might not be necessary, consummating the marriage at least once would earn no one’s reproach. It could even serve as a means to dispel unreasonable rumors. However, with this positive idea in mind, Gezell’s demeanor became unexpectedly gruff. His response was as firm as his expression.
“Sir Maelrosen, I am already married.”
“Well, that’s true. But since our wedding is a sham, and I’m a man, I can’t help with matters of the night.”
“Regardless of our intentions, in the eyes of those watching, it was a genuine consummation. Using the term ‘consummation’ with others wouldn’t be appropriate.”
Facing an unexpected reaction, Rensley closed his mouth.
‘Are all the men in this country so naive?’
Thinking slightly differently, and with the image of the quirky Lord in mind, the question arose. However, considering Stan’s description of the rulers of Aldrant as generally hostile and hot-tempered, it seemed unlikely. Moreover, Gezell Jivendad was known for having peculiar rumors within and outside the country.
In any case, if things went this way, the inconvenience he caused to Gezell would only increase. Instead of being expelled or executed, he would be confined by the predetermined consummation, restricting his freedom at night.
Despite that, he had achieved his dream of entering the knighthood and starting a new life, thanks to the Duke. But now, preparing for the second consummation would take some time. Rensley felt a bit deflated.
“I apologize. Because of me, Duke can’t enjoy the night freely…”
“I don’t understand why Sir Maelrosen is apologizing. I have never been interested in such matters in the first place.”
“Yes. I heard that too, but… still, there must be times when you desire it.”
“I don’t. I have never felt any interest, so you don’t have to worry, Sir Maelrosen.”
“Yes… yes?”
Nodding mechanically, Rensley suddenly raised his head. Gezell wore a puzzled expression as he faced Rensley. Surprised, Rensley pulled the chair closer and sat down abruptly. Frowning, he asked again.
“Wait a moment, Your Garce. If you’ve never felt any interest until now, have you ever… did…?”
“If it’s not absolutely necessary for state affairs, there’s no reason to allocate time to things that don’t interest you. Even doing things that are necessary or interesting leaves not enough hours in a day.”
It would have been more natural if he had said he could easily handle five people in one night. Rensley, silently horrified, scanned Gezell’s handsome face, the large and sturdy body behind the already familiar cloak, and shuddered without making a sound.
‘What’s he saying? Is this… indicating lack of experience?’
A king of a country without experience? While it might not be considered an essential virtue for the conditions to ascend to the throne, Rensley thought he had received some basic information about Gezell before coming to Aldrant. However, at that time, he was in despair and didn’t pay much attention. He didn’t want to know.
Now, prompted by their recent conversation, vague information that had been lingering in a corner of his mind suddenly surfaced. Rensley, who was struggling to sharpen the blurry memory, finally decided to confirm it with the person involved.
“Your Grace, come to think of it… when were you born?”
“It’s the year 782 of Perilahr.”
“I was born in 783…”
“I am aware.”
Right. He had indeed heard Gezell’s basic information before coming to Aldrant, but at that time, he was in such distress that he didn’t pay much attention. He didn’t want to know.
Considering objectively, the age difference shouldn’t be that significant. He had believed that Gezell, who had taken on the role of a ruler at the age of sixteen, would seem much more mature than him, who was relatively young. Rensley scrutinized Gezell once again. His face, though rugged and quiet, didn’t seem to show a significantly older age.
“I see. Just one year…”
It wasn’t even two or three years; just a one-year difference wouldn’t be a problem for a friendship with relaxed formality. Rensley’s thoughts slowly advanced.
“Your Grace.”
As if a good idea had occurred to him, Rensley leaned on the table with his elbow, supporting his chin with his hand. His eyes, elegantly narrowed with a smile, sparkled with a hint of mischief.
“Shall I teach you?”
“What are you talking about?”
“I have some experience… I can teach you a bit about that matter. Once you learn, you might find it interesting.”
“I received education during my heir days. It’s just that I wasn’t interested.”
“I understand what the royal bedroom education is like. It’s solemn and boring. I can understand why you didn’t find it interesting.”
Then Gezell also tilted his body slightly, resting his chin on the back of his hand.
“Sir Maelrosen seems to be quite experienced.”
“Haha, no. It’s embarrassing, but I wouldn’t say that. Since there are hardly any serious suitors, but I was quite popular with the ladies… Ah, I’m talking unnecessarily. Anyway, what I want to say is, as we talk more comfortably, Your Grace might develop an interest too. After all, you are the ruler of this country, and sooner or later, you’ll have to choose a true Duchess.”
Rensley smiled even more. “I’m finally glad to be of use to Your Grace. Usually, discussions like these are difficult in the context of our knight-lord relationship.”
“That’s true. As I listen, I’m becoming curious too. Please teach me.”
“Today, I’ll be Your Grace’s teacher.”
Rensley’s smile widened. Although he had joined the knight order, his time in Aldrant had been mostly peaceful. He couldn’t feel any sense of usefulness, but now, he had found a chance to repay the favor.
Of course, Rensley’s experience was not impressive enough to teach someone else. It was a fact that, given his difficult position, he would likely have spent his entire life without learning if he had continued to live in Cornia. Knowing his position, Rensley didn’t make an effort to form romantic relationships. The status of an illegitimate child was a shackle that he didn’t need to share or inherit with someone.
However, women who expressed interest in Rensley appeared frequently. Whether they were nobles whom he met at banquets or commoners working in the square, there were instances when they crossed paths. Usually, it ended with sharing drinks, dancing, and engaging in pleasant conversations. However, some individuals were unwilling to part with Rensley even as the night grew late.
They both knew that it could only be a brief encounter. Smiles and courteous farewells were more common, but occasionally, there were days when Rensley wanted to linger in the warm and comforting embrace, pretending not to notice.
It’s alright. I get lonely sometimes too. He whispered to himself with closed eyes. Perhaps you feel the same way. Adding such speculation.
“Sie Maelrosen?”
Lost in a brief nostalgic thought, Rensley snapped back to reality at the sound of the man’s voice. What seemed like a pleasant and kind time back then now turned melancholic and bitter when he turned around. Quickly lowering his head, he apologized.
“I apologize. I got lost in thought for a moment.”
“Did you miss a lover you parted with in Cornia?”
“No. A lover? There was no such person.”
“You have experience, but no lover. That’s strange. Did you share a bed without marriage or affection?”
Rensley suddenly felt embarrassed. The man’s observation was accurate. He didn’t think that spending a night together and feeling affection had to go hand in hand. Tomorrow is another day. The people of Cornia, who maximize pleasure, would probably agree with Rensley.
But why did it suddenly feel like a fairy tale to the people around him? Or was it because of the Duke’s attitude that seemed almost hermit-like? Rensley felt a sense of accusation. Even if he was accused, it would be fine as long as he could face himself confidently, but he couldn’t understand why he felt embarrassed.
Unable to respond promptly, Rensley’s voice softened.
“If you’re upset, I apologize. It was a joke.”
“No, what you said is true.”
Even the words he said loudly before now felt embarrassing. What was he trying to teach for the true Duchess? What was the point of recounting past encounters, even if they didn’t form deep connections?
“So, what should I do?”
“Ah…”
Hesitating, Rensley eventually smiled helplessly. Upon scrutiny, there weren’t many stories he could share. There was no choice. He had to let go of the responsibility of pretending to be knowledgeable and wrap it up by letting luck run its course.
“Well… it’s probably best to start with a kiss.”
“A kiss.”
“Yes. Holding each other’s waists or shoulders and exchanging a kiss. Since Your Grace has strong muscles, putting a little force into your arms might cause discomfort to the person being embraced. So, it should be gentle.”
“I see.”
He seemed to be listening quite seriously. In Rensley’s mind, the image of the man kissing was involuntarily drawn.
The incoming Duchess would probably be shorter than him. There was a high probability that she would be smaller and slimmer than Rensley Maelrosen. With his strong and firm arms, Gezell Jivendad could gently wrap the new Duchess, and she might put a soft hand on his broad chest or brush away her flowing hair.
“Night activities in the royal family are usually rigid, like a ceremony. Instead of starting solemnly from the bed, it might be better to… yes, share a conversation, dance together, and smoothly transition to a kiss.”
Outside, the crescent moon rises, and the candlelight subtly illuminates the bedroom. Unlike the mock wedding night with Rensley Maelrosen, Gezell Jivendad wouldn’t abruptly leave, but holds his lovely real Duchess in his arms.
The faint sounds of the festival and celebratory music outside would flow into the bedroom. Facing each other, the two would slowly move their feet, and they would gently meet lips. Probably, it would be light and tender at first.
Removing the elaborate and intricate shoulder ornament of the usual more dazzling attire, they would also take off the long and thick cloak and ceremonial armor. The real Duchess, with elegance and beauty, would help Gezell undress, and Gezell, with his large hands, would begin to remove her flowing dress. The touch is precise and quick, but it never hurts the Duchess’s skin. No, the soft sensation of fingers brushing against her back or waist might make her melt.
Suddenly, his back felt ticklish, and Rensley closed his mouth. The feeling of Gezell Jivendad’s presence, the time spent intertwining the straps of the dress as he raised them, and the memory of the day overlapping with the imaginary night all flashed in his mind.
His hands. From the moment he arrived at the castle, the palms extended to him, the short time spent writing together, and the hands held while climbing the stairs in the dark…
“Sir Maelrosen?”
Distractedly gazing into the low space, Rensley snapped back to attention and looked directly at the Duke.
“Do you have any problems? You suddenly went silent.”
“…I’m sorry….”
No other words came to mind. Rensley apologized to him in a small voice, making sure his words didn’t tremble, and tightened his throat as if to suppress any sudden swelling. To dispel the awkwardness, he tried hard to lift the corners of his mouth.
“I guess I was being boastful. I can’t think of anything else to say.”
“Is that so? Then please let me know if you come up with good thoughts later.”
“Understood, Your Grace.”
Observing Rensley, who had drastically reduced both words and energy, the Northern Duke scrutinized him as if studying a child about to be scolded. Under the sharp gaze, Rensley held his breath like a scolded child.
With a creaking sound as the chair moved, Gezell rose. Rensley instinctively shrunk his shoulders, and at the same time, the large yet graceful hand effortlessly reached out and touched his forehead. The owner of the hand remained silent for a moment, then tilted his head lightly.
“There’s no fever… Somehow, it feels similar to the last time I had a fever. It could be that your lifestyle changed suddenly when you joined the Knights, and you quickly became fatigued. It’s better to rest today.”
“Yes. Yes, Your Grace…”
“If your body hurts, don’t endure it; you must speak up.”
“Yes….”
“Rest here today. It’s risky to attempt the transport device when you’re not in good condition.”
Now, Rensley nodded without saying anything. His expression still held some lingering uncertainty, but Gezell didn’t inquire further and left the room.
Alone, Rensley stared blankly at the closed door for a moment, then turned towards the bed and collapsed onto it. It felt like there had been a day similar to today in the past.
With his face buried in the blanket, the exposed ear gradually turned red. Ugh, he made a low groaning sound, grabbing his hair roughly.
“…No, it’s just a misunderstanding.”
‘Thank you for being so kind.’ Since coming to Aldrant, he had become closest to this person, and unknowingly, he found himself wanting to rely on him.
That’s all. As he gets used to life here and meets more people, this strange feeling he just experienced will soon disappear.
As he lay there with his face buried, his breathing started to become suffocating, so Rensley quickly turned over. Even though he took a deep breath, the heartbeat that had quickened once continued to gradually settle, without any signs of calming down.
His symmetrical forehead slowly distorted, completely covered by the hands that cupped his face.
That Consummation part took me 2 takes to understand Rensley was using it in place of Affairs so casually . It threw me for a loop gosh 😅
Annnnnd it starting ! It’s starting guys. Rensley getting conscious of his husband. 😍
Oh I didn’t know Rensley had his few hidden cards too . You naughty boy 🙈
Hui Hui Hui Hui 😆
Thank you so much for Uploading. Such consistency ! Thumbs up 👍Exiting Times Ahead 💖
My man Rensley will just keep on surprising you more and more~ just wait~~~~
Happy reading! 📖✨
Finally caught up with the updates!
This novel is so incredibly pretty, I don’t really know how to explain it… I can just imagine the gorgeous medieval aesthetic surrounding these beautiful characters… it just makes me so happy~
Thank you so much for doing such an amazing transition of this novel ☺️
Thank you for the heartwarming support! 💛😊
you just took words from my mouth. I was actually imagining those intricate medieval aesthetic infrastructures and among these two breathtakingly beautiful characters having their slow romance , just like the Bridgerton series . Thank you so much for the updates.
(ﾉ≧∀≦)ﾉ ♡