Here we are at Chapter 32. This time, we'll focus on another character that deserves some screen time. It's Emilia's turn to be in the spotlight. Fuyumi will still be there, of course. I do not own Code Vein or Skeleton Knight. They belong to their respective owners. I only own my OCs. Here's chapter 32. Enjoy.
Chapter 32: The Duke's Daughter
Fuyumi and the others returned to Crystalglove city after finishing up business, much to Emilia's joy. Even more so is the fact that Fuyumi doesn't have any missions right now and wants to relax at home for a little while. Emilia wouldn't admit it, but she is a little jealous that the other girls get to spend more time with Fuyumi because they are warriors like her. Of course, Emilia is ahead of them on points in a few other fields.
In the morning, Emilia is having tea with Fuyumi and Anelia as they enjoy a pleasant morning in the garden. Meanwhile, Elane is out in the city while Iris is training with Ser Conrad and the guards.
"Ah, it's so nice to have you all back home. Things have been pretty boring around here whenever you leave," Emilia moans while sipping tea.
"Well, we're not going anywhere for a while, so maybe try not to be so upset. We could always go on another date if that will make you feel better," Fuyumi suggests.
"A date?!" Anelia blushes.
Emilia giggles, "Why are you blushing Anelia? You and Fuyumi have already had a date before, correct,"
"W-We have, but... I just get embarrassed when it comes to stuff like that," Anelia replies, looking down.
"Oh, you really are too cute, Anelia! If you were a stuffed animal, I'd want to hug you all day and never let go. Oh, maybe I'll just do that right now," Emilia coos.
"I second that idea," Fuyumi adds, making Anelia's blush worse. "So, I hear you've got a few noble things going on today,"
"Yes, a few meetings, lessons, and the like. I can handle it. That reminds me, you've received a few letters from other noble families, Fuyumi," Emilia says.
Fuyumi cocks an eyebrow, "For me? Why?"
"Apparently, they are the lords of noble houses that are looking to marry their daughters to you in arranged marriages. It's becoming well-known that you prefer those of the fairer sex as your spouses, and with your abilities, connections, and beauty, some lords are looking to capitalize on that. They believe that if they could marry their daughters to you, it would give them connections to you, my house, and the royal family," Emilia explains.
Fuyumi facepalms, "You've got to be kidding me. Let me guess, they never consulted their daughters on this,"
"I've taken the liberty of speaking with a few lords and their daughters, both together and privately. Some of the daughters are opposed to the idea, for various reasons. Some are hoping to become your wives. You are more popular than you think. Meanwhile, others are merely going along with their father's ideas because that is what is expected of them, or to help their houses. I've taken the liberty of refusing their offers, though I did leave a few up in the air in order for you to look into them. There's nothing wrong with building connections, but only if you would want to tie the knot with them. Luckily, we can worry about that down the road," Emilia says.
Fuyumi sighs with relief, "You truly are a godsend, Emilia. I'm no match for you. Well, I suppose I'll handle some mercenary work while I'm here. It's certainly been a while,"
"I figured as much. But, if you're planning on taking Iris with you, could you wait a little while. I wish to speak to her privately about a few things," Emilia says.
"What do you mean?" Anelia asks.
Emilia simply gives a smile that says she's not telling.
…
In her private room, Emilia sits across from Iris, who looks nervous if the fidgeting of her hands is anything to go on.
"Y-You wished to speak to me in private, Lady Emilia," Iris is definitely nervous.
Emilia's servants called her over to her room without explaining why. She was worried that Emilia may have changed her mind about allowing Iris to become Fuyumi's third wife.
"There's nothing to be worried about, Iris. I merely wished to speak with you about a few things. I heard that during your dilemma with your family, you actually had reservations about being born a woman. That if you had been born a man, you would've easily gotten your family's approval to become a knight. Is this correct?" Emilia asks.
"It is, though I am ashamed to admit it," Iris glances away.
"I cannot say I understand your circumstances. I've never been in your position. However, I can give you some advice. Women have their own special weapons. Weapons that have proven to be quite effective against men," Emilia says before snacking on a treat.
"How so?" Iris asks.
"Well, you already used them on Fuyumi. How else did you get her wrapped around your finger. A woman's beauty, her charm, and personality can be just as sharp and deadly as any refined sword. My mother taught me this. She used those exact same weapons on my father when they first got engaged. You must learn exactly what your charms are, and you do have your own charms, and hone them to their full potential. An elegant dress, a refined dance, proper etiquette for a noble lady. All of these things and more can be your weapons. You are beautiful, one of the reasons that Fuyumi chose you. But, you see that beauty as a weakness when you must turn it into a strength. Luckily, my mother and I are more than willing to aid you in this. After all, if you truly desire to stand by Fuyumi's side as her wife, you will at times have to dress for the occasion. And play the role,"
"That... may prove difficult. I'm not too fond of dresses," Iris notes.
Emilia simply smiles, "Oh, don't worry. We'll fix that in no time,"
Something told Iris this wouldn't be painless. Emilia and Eleonora spent the day helping Iris learn how to become a proper lady of noble society and a proper wife for Fuyumi. She had done such training before back home, but it was always at a minimum, and usually with the mindset of a rebel. This time, she must fully embrace it, no matter how embarrassing or painful it may be. They trained her in dance, proper etiquette, music, and other avenues. She was rusty in some and needed plenty of work in others. Suffice it to say, Emilia had a splendid time, though Iris would beg to differ. However, if it meant getting Fuyumi's attention once again, then it was worth it. Of course, she did end up being exhausted for the rest of the day.
…
The next day, while Fuyumi, Anelia, and Elane are out doing mercenary work, and Iris is training with Ser Conrad, Emilia is having tea with her friends, Lady Margaret and Lady Delphina.
"So, now Fuyumi has taken another fiance. That's her third one," Margaret notes while eating a sweet cupcake.
"Are you sure you're okay with this, Emilia?" Delphina asks, concerned.
"It is quite alright. Lady Iris and I came to a quick understanding. Besides, there have been plenty of nobles throughout our country's history that have taken on more than one spouse. It is the same for the royal family as well. The Mirage family is of lower rank, but has a proud history of producing excellent knights that serve the kingdom. This can only be beneficial for both families. And Iris has agreed that I will be the head wife without hesitation. She was very understanding," Emilia smiles.
"I see. I must admit, your fiancé certainly keeps herself busy. She certainly has interesting tastes, as well. I heard that Lady Iris was more of a tomboy than a proper lady. It caused her family quite a few problems," Delphina notes.
"There were some family issues that the Mirage family were unable to settle, at least until Fuyumi lent a hand. Now, they're closer than ever. Anyways, Fuyumi will be in town for a little while. If you'd like, we can schedule another tea party and I'll invite her next time," Emilia says.
"Oh, I'd love that. I've been dying to speak with your fiance. I always find her so dashing," Margaret gushes.
"If I didn't know any better, I'd think you were trying to get engaged to her, Margaret," Emilia giggles.
"Oh, you know that's not the case. Your story with Fuyumi is like a romance novel come to life. I just can't help myself," Margaret replies.
"I'm already engaged myself, so you have nothing to fear, Emilia. I won't steal your precious Fuyumi," Delphina says.
"I appreciate it, Delphina. *Sigh* Honestly, I've been extra busy lately with marriage proposals from other families," Emilia says.
"Are you still getting proposals? I thought those nobles' sons would've backed off after seeing that you're engaged to Lady Fuyumi," Margaret says.
"Most of them backed off after a while, but there are still a few that refuse to listen. The real heart of the matter is nobles trying to marry their daughters off to Fuyumi, that's made me so busy. Fuyumi's prestige grows by the day. She accomplished more tasks for the king, helped bring corrupt nobles in our country to justice, and helped uncover conspiracies that threatened the kingdom. The royal family has taken a liking to her, and she's engaged to me, the daughter of a duke. These nobles are just after all that prestige and power for themselves. Honestly, I feel bad for their daughters. I've had the chance to speak to some of them, and majority of them are not fond of the idea of marrying another woman. There are a few that genuinely wish to marry Fuyumi, but they come with a lot of baggage from their families. Then there are at least a few that are willing to marry her, primarily to just fulfill their noble duties as the daughters of noble families. Fuyumi wouldn't want to get engaged to any of them. She and I got engaged for love and no other reason. It's the same with Anelia and Iris. Those men have no understanding of a woman's heart," Emilia sighs again.
"I feel for you, Emilia. I haven't been engaged to anyone yet, but there are prospective spouses that my father is looking at. I just hope I end up with someone who isn't some kind of greedy pervert," Margaret notes.
"Were some of them really that bad?" Delphina asks.
"Well... I think one of the worst ones was when a nobleman tried to marry his daughter to Fuyumi... when she was only six years-old," Emilia groans.
"Geez, I know arranged marriages can start out young, but that's taking it too far there. My word," Margaret notes, feeling creeped out.
"Okay, that's enough about this negative stuff. Let's talk about something else. Oh, I was planning on going on a little shopping trip with Anelia while she's here. I would love it if you two joined us," Emilia says.
"Anelia is Fuyumi's second fiance, correct. I heard she's a talented mage, and was even recognized by the king himself. I haven't had the chance to speak to her in person yet, though," Delphina says.
"Yes, Anelia and I have become good friends. What's more, she's positively adorable. Fuyumi said she had fun dressing her up one time, and I look forward to having my turn with her. I honestly see why Fuyumi was smitten with her. She's so cute, I can't stand it sometimes," Emilia says.
"Ooh, that does sound interesting. I'll be sure to make time in my schedule for that," Delphina says.
"Hey, me too. I want to dress her up!" Margaret adds.
The girls laugh at the idea of dressing Anelia up in cute, little outfits.
…
Out in the wilderness, Anelia suddenly bolts with a twitch while holding her staff.
"Huh? Anelia, you okay?" Fuyumi asks after slicing through an orc.
"Y-Y-Yeah, I'm okay. I just can't help but feel like I should be worried about something waiting for me back at the duke's manor," Anelia says.
"Hmm, maybe because these damn orcs keep leering at us. It's making my skin crawl," Elane notes before firing off an arrow that nails an orc between the eyes.
The group are handling a quest for the mercenary guild to deal with some orcs attacking travelers on the road. Suffice it to say, when the monsters saw the three beautiful women before them, they couldn't help but have lust on the brain, wanting o so such horrendous things to them.
"No, I think it might be something else. Spirits of fire, burn through my enemies. Fire ball!" Anelia sends out a few fire balls at the remaining orcs, throwing them into disarray.
"Well, I'm sure it's nothing to worry about. Let's finish up here, collect our reward, and then grab something to eat. All this exercise is making me hungry," Fuyumi notes, swinging her blade to slice off the right arm of another orc before going for its neck next.
"I hope so," Anelia mutters, but she still can't help but feel nervous.
…
A couple days later, Anelia's fears were realized. Emilia and her friends had their chance and took Anelia clothes shopping in the city. They couldn't hold back their glee when they had her try on all sorts of outfits. The embarrassed expressions the blushing Anelia showed were to die for. If they had a way to make those images physical and eternal, they'd spare no expense on them. Which is precisely why Fuyumi never told them about the camera she gave to Davis back in her world. Unfortunately, the fun couldn't last forever. Another individual had come to speak with Emilia regarding her engagement with Fuyumi. This one being one of the more persistent of the bunch. In a room for meeting guests, Emilia sits on one side of a table, sipping her tea. Standing behind her are Sebastian and Iris acting as her servant and bodyguard respectively. Sitting across from her are Metus von Nokama and his father, Count Metroan von Nokama. Count Nokama is a middle-aged man with the same hair color as Metus, but starting to gray, and a goatee to match. He has on a green suit over a drak gray vest and white shirt.
"I appreciate you taking the time out of your busy schedule to speak with me, Lady Emilia," Count Nokama says.
"It is no trouble at all. I apologize for not taking the time to speak with you sooner, but I am rather busy these days," Emilia replies.
"Yes, yes, succeeding the duke will indeed be an eventful endeavor, I'm sure. Though, as the jewel of noble society, I believe you are capable. Which is why I wish to show my support for your succession. I imagine there are a few nobles that are more hesitant on the matter," Count Nokama says.
"I'm sure there are, but that won't change things. My father has already approved my succession and so has the royal family. They can't very well go against them, as I'm sure you're aware," Emilia says.
Count Nokama strokes his goatee, "Yes, I'm aware. Which is why I wish to make sure this succession goes swimmingly,"
"Oh, and how do you intend to do that?" Emilia asks.
"I have no intention of interfering with your succession. If His Majesty has approved of it, then as a citizen of this kingdom, I must support it as well. However, there are people asking about what you will do in the future when it comes to your successor. My son already informed me that you have no intention of annulling your engagement to Lady Fuyumi-," Count Nokama begins.
"Ser Fuyumi, Lord Nokama. My fiancé is a knight of this kingdom, recognized by the king himself. Remember that," Emilia corrects him with a pleasant smile.
"-Right, Ser Fuyumi. Apologies. As I was saying, I won't waste anyone's time by trying to convince you to annul the engagement, but what about what comes afterwards? As a high-ranking lady of noble society, you are aware that you have a duty to continue the bloodline of your house. Two women cannot produce an heir together. I am suggesting an arrangement between you and my son, Metus. The two of you can produce an heir who will inherit your family name and status and in return you will have my family's full support in all endeavors your family takes on. Metus will, of course, have to have some interaction with the child, but he won't interfer with your fiancé if she wants to contribute. As far as decisions go for the child's future, the three of you can discuss that together. This way, the future of your house is secure," Count Nokama explains.
Throughout the explanation, Sebastian and Emilia remained as composed as ever, but Iris was doing her best to keep her disgust hidden. This is precisely the kind of situation that made her detest arranged marriages between noble families. The girl was always basically sold off like some brood mare to produce offspring and nothing else.
"I see. So, that's it," Emilia sips her tea again. "Count Nokama, I'd like to speak with your son alone in the garden, if you wouldn't mind," she stands up and proceeds to leave the room.
"I beg your pardon, Lady Emilia?" Count Nokama feels confused.
"I wish to speak with your son, alone. Lord Metus, come," Emilia leaves the room with Iris behind her.
Metus goes to follow her. Just as his father tries to join them, Sebastian and a few more servants who were standing off to the side bar his path. Outside in the garden, Emilia looks over the flower in bloom. She has an assortment in the garden but focuses on the white roses for the time being. Iris stands beside her while Metus stands further back.
"Now then, Lord Metus, I want to know your opinion on what your father proposed. Tell me your honest opinion," Emilia asks as she faces him.
Metus thinks on his words carefully, "From a noble standpoint, he does have a good argument. As nobles, we do have a duty to keep our family line going by producing heirs. We are not a strong house, but we are a house with a good history, and we can support your house in the future. As for me personally... the truth is I do care about you, Emilia. Truly. I would not be remiss in saying that I would make a good husband for you," Metus says.
Emilia sighs, "I know you do, Metus. But, I cannot return your feelings. A relationship that only has love on one side will only cause pain for both. It's common for that sort of thing in noble society. I am well aware. That is why it needs to change. The relationships may have looked fine on the outside, but what about from within. I'm sorry, but I refuse to be a part of that, nor do I wish to force anyone into that kind of relationship with me. Fuyumi walks her own path, despite the dangers, the suffering she's endured, the judgment she'll face. She chooses her own destiny... and now I'm choosing mine," she says as the sun peeks out behind her from the clouds.
"I see. There truly is no convincing you. I understand," Metus relents.
"I am sorry, Lord Metus, but this is the path I have chosen. I do hope you'll find someone who can return your feelings," Emilia notes sadly.
Metus shakes his head, "I admit, it hurt, and it'll remain that way for a while. But, if you are choosing to move forward, despite the challenges ahead, then I must do the same. I will convince my father to not go through with his idea. He won't be pleased, but hopefully he'll see this as a way for our two families to work together, without the extra baggage,"
"Thank you, Lord Metus," Emilia bows her head. "You may relax now, Iris. Metus is no enemy to us," she looks to her bodyguard, who kept one hand on her blade the whole time.
"I wasn't trying to be an enemy," Metus notes, glancing at the knight.
"Iris is just fulfilling her duty. Besides, we'll be family soon, so this is to be expected. She'll be marrying Fuyumi as well as her third fiancé," Emilia says.
Metus looks between the two women, "I... I see. Congratulations," he just goes with it.
With that, Emilia finally finished the last meeting for the day. She was exhausted and just wanted to crawl into bed and sleep the rest of the day away. When Fuyumi came back with the others, Emilia made sure that her fiancé spoiled her for the rest of the evening. The life of a duke's daughter never slows down, it seems.
And that's the chapter. Like I said, just something for Emilia this time around since she doesn't get as much screen time as the others, so to speak. But then again, she's going to be Fuyumi's head wife, so of course she's going to be busy with so much going on. What else awaits Fuyumi and her lovers in the near future? Until then, please Read and Review.