Episode 71: I Tried Going on a First Date with Claris in the Frontier Town
The footsteps of winter are certainly drawing near.
In the morning, when I open the window, the crisp, cold air stings my nose, making me feel that winter’s arrival is definitely upon the frontier land of Aegrid.
The territory is bustling. Preparations for the year-end and New Year, as well as for our departure to the Royal Capital, are proceeding simultaneously.
The number of carriages coming and going on the main road has increased, and the lively voices of merchants echo all around.
From the farming districts, I can see people transporting this year’s bountiful harvest to the town. Despite being a frontier land, this town is certainly growing.
The lord’s manor at its center was also more bustling than usual.
“Lord Serios, please confirm these documents here.”
Arnaud brings the documents.
In my study, as I was handling my official duties, Claris was by my side. She was helping me with my work, carefully sorting through the Territory Management documents.
“Even though you’re holding off on a formal marriage until graduation… it’s as if you’re already a married couple, isn’t it?”
At Arnaud’s words, Claris and I look at each other.
I chuckle lightly at his words. Claris’s eyebrow twitches, and she lets out a soft sigh.
“Haaah, it’s just a formality until we graduate from the academy. We’re already living in the same mansion and have become a family living together, so it’s only natural that we help each other.”
“As the Head Butler of the Aegrid House! And as the one who has taken care of Lord Serios, this Arnaud is deeply moved!”
Arnaud might be getting on in years. Ever since Claris came, he’s been getting moved by one thing or another and has become quite tearful.
While dealing with Arnaud, Claris’s pen glides across the paper. Her expression is utterly serious, so much so that I, who had relaxed a little, feel somewhat apologetic.
“But, you’re quite knowledgeable about Territory Management, aren’t you?”
“Yes, I studied it as part of my education to be Queen. It’s ironic, but there’s no doubt that my father’s teachings have shaped who I am.”
A hint of loneliness drifted across her profile as she spoke dispassionately. Considering her position, I feel I shouldn’t reply carelessly.
Just then, she stopped her hand and looked at me.
“Shall we go get some fresh air? Focusing only on official duties can be depressing, can’t it?”
“That sounds good. I wanted to take a walk outside too.”
We got ready and left the lord’s manor.
As we walk through the town, the cold winter wind caresses our cheeks. But the fact that I can feel a certain calmness even in that wind is probably proof that this town is growing.
“It’s more lively than I expected. It’s quite different from the image of a frontier, isn’t it?”
Claris’s long hair flutters in the wind as she looks around.
“Even though it’s the frontier, trade has increased recently, and merchants have started visiting frequently. Improving the roads within the territory paid off.”
“The fact that you lowered the tariffs must also be a big factor. For negotiating merchants, being able to set up shop with lower taxes is an advantage.”
Stalls line the main road, and lively voices fly back and forth. Among the agricultural products and handicrafts, winter clothes and ornaments that evoke the season also catch the eye.
This year, a strong cold wave is predicted, so firewood sales are also up.
“Looking at it this way, the Aegrid Territory is a town with a future, isn’t it?”
“You think so?”
“Yes. But I also understand how much effort you’ve put in. Gathering the funds and manpower to improve the roads couldn’t have been easy, right?”
A wry smile escapes me at Claris’s words. Indeed, it wasn’t easy. But thinking that it’s paying off, I feel a deep sense of emotion.
Year by year, the growth might be small, but Aegrid is definitely evolving.
“Look, Lord Serios. Over there.”
Where she pointed, there was a small flower shop. The shop, selling out-of-season flowers, had a somewhat comforting Warmth to it.
“Magic Flowers, huh?”
“Magic Flowers?”
“They’re flowers grown by infusing them with magical power. Claris, which one do you like? Pick one.”
“How strange. You’re buying one for me?”
“Yeah, since we’re here.”
The clerk at the small flower shop was a young girl, probably an apprentice magician. I bought a few flowers and paid a little extra.
Claris looked a little surprised, but she soon gave a small smile. Then, she picked out a single white flower.
“This flower, it’s pure white and beautiful, isn’t it?”
“Yeah, it’s beautiful.”
The flower held in her hand looked somehow warm, even in the cold air.
“Thank you, Serios. But… don’t gifts like these need a reason?”
To her mischievous smile, I replied, laughing as well.
“A reason? Is a memento of my first date with Claris not good enough?”
“…It’s more than enough.”
As she said that and smiled, her face looked somewhat bashful.
As dusk approached, we walked slowly through the town. It was almost strange how peacefully time passed with her in this frontier land.
The wind grew colder, and she clutched the collar of her coat tightly. That gesture seemed strangely endearing to me.
“If you’re cold, shall I lend you my hand?”
“…No, I’m fine.”
Claris, standing with her back slightly straightened and dignified, has a shy side to her.
So, a little forcefully, I take her hand.
She didn’t complain about her hand being held; instead, she squeezed mine back. The moment that Warmth spread, my heart pounded a little.
“Will you continue to protect this town with me from now on?”
“Of course. If I can be of help to you, I’ll do anything I can.”
At her words, I smiled quietly, believing that our future would grow along with this town.
We walked back to the manor, hand in hand.
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Afterword
Hello, this is the author, Iko.
Let’s begin Chapter Three.
The season will span from winter to the New Year, and I’ll be writing about the journey from the Margrave’s territory to the Royal Capital.
They’ll be second years at the academy; what will happen then?