Chapter 4: Love and Escape

The moment she regained consciousness, she was floating in the air—someone was carrying her.

“…?”

Despite being awake, her body felt extremely sluggish. Her entire body—especially her lower half—felt as heavy as lead. Perhaps because of that, her mind was hazy.

I…?

When she lifted her head in wonder, someone stroked her hair, and she shifted her gaze.

Upon seeing a pair of tender gray eyes, Louisa blinked.

“…Gaius?”

“It must’ve been difficult. You don’t have to force yourself to wake up.”

Gaius leaned against her hair, and whispered gently.

…Oh, I see, I am…

She had passed out in his embrace. The euphoria that came from having consummated their love was accompanied by remorse, as if she had done something wrong.

In retrospect, when she discovered that he had gotten married, she was more tormented by the fact that her love was misplaced, rather than becoming a widower.

But now, the love that she had once wholeheartedly believed in had become a sin.

She felt like she was being unreasonably childish.

It can’t go wrong—or so I thought…

At least, until Gaius had married another woman.

Back when she was still his wife, her feelings and the memories they shared shone beautifully.

However, that once youthful and pure love had become twisted.

Why, how…?

Despite her helplessness, she averted her gaze from the truth by persuading herself.

…Why do you only show up now?

—And for him to profess his love to her, as if he had never taken another woman’s hand in marriage.

How could he be so heartless?

…What a sly man.

He must’ve known that Louisa would be delighted to hear those words. However, her happiness was on par with her suffering. To attain love at the expense of others…. It didn’t bode well with her.

If I’m in her wife’s position… Surely, it’ll be a torment.

If her husband loved another and neglected her, she’d be drowning in jealousy. With suffering of that degree, she might even contemplate death at some point.

Louisa was aware of her impulsive and stubborn personality. And her pridefulness.

Hence why, her jealousy would outweigh anyone else, and she’d get so angry, she wouldn’t be able to forgive the other woman. In the end, she’d despise herself and suffer all alone.

…And that’s what I’m doing to his wife.

At the realization, she had no choice but to admit that her love was wrong.

Even if I don’t want to—

—She had to give up on this love.

This love had to end.

…She knew that, but when he touched her, she no longer cared.

She felt both pathetic and hopelessly small.

…What should I do?

She’d eventually pay the price for prioritizing her own desires.

Not only had she sinned against Gaius’ wife, she had also tarnished her title as the princess of the Holy Kingdom of Charule. Therefore, the weight of redemption which awaited her wouldn’t be light. Merely imagining it suffocated her.

…I’m the one who did it. I have to bear it.

Despite his aggressiveness, Gaius didn’t force her. Therefore, she definitely accepted him on her own.

Thus, even if she were to suffer from the repercussions, and was exiled by not only his father but also Adriace—she’d have no choice but to accept it.

Everything’s my fault.

She wasn’t just thinking about her country.

In the future, she’d eventually have to give up on him.

Since he already had a legitimate spouse, he didn’t belong to her.

No matter how happy his embrace made her feel, it was merely an illusion.

An illusory fog that’d fade with time.

At the end, she’d be left with nothing—without her country, family, or even fake love.

It’s a path of no return…

Louisa was in contempt towards her own foolishness—

—Still, she realized that she felt neither shock nor agitation.

“Your hair sure is soft.”

Louisa, who was lost in contemplation, regained her bearings at Gaius’ voice.

“…Hair?”

“Indeed. Back when we were children, I loved touching your hair. It was still as soft as back then.”

“…My hair is like a cat.”

She blurted without thinking. In the past, Gaius told her that.

Louisa cast her gaze down, feeling extremely nostalgic. A second later, the hollowness caught up with the nostalgia.

Once, she had anticipated the day where she’d reminisce with Gaius about the past.

She never dreamed that she’d get in this situation.

…I never knew it’d feel so bitter.

The more they reminisced, the emptier she felt.

“We’re here.”

When she looked up, she saw the bathroom. A white bathtub could be seen on top of the tiled floor.

The bathtub, made of porcelain, was brimming with hot water.

“…A bath?”

The luxury surprised Louisa, and joy seeped into her voice.

It wasn’t particularly common in Charule. In the ancient times, there used to be public baths, but it fell into obscurity after the Maruel religion prohibited the act of being nude in public. While hot springs did exist, they were mainly for medical treatment, and had a different concept than the one used for personal cleanliness.

Since clean water was a precious commodity, bathing with a copious amount of hot water was considered a pastime of the nobility. Even a princess like Louisa could only take a bath once a week, and by wiping her body with a damp cloth.

…But in Valentia, I can take a bath every day.

The reason was because there were many active volcanoes in Valentia, along with hot springs, making it a country that was abundant in water resources. Not just limited to facilities and sewerage, water was equally distributed to public baths, wells, fountains, and even to the residences of nobles and famous merchants.

In Charule, Valentia is often mocked as the countryside, but it has the best facilities on the continent…

Gaius chuckled at Louisa, who beamed at the hot tub.

“Good, it seems that you like taking a bath.”

As he spoke, he tried to remove the sheet that enveloped her entire body.

“Ah…”

She could’ve done it by herself, but not when she was wrapped up like this… In the end, she had no choice but to let Gaius do it.

Perhaps happy at her obedience, Gaius appeared to be in a good mood as he gently submerged her in the bathtub.

The temperature of the water was just right.

As the warmth permeated her entire body, Louisa exhaled deeply.

It feels good.

All her fatigue seemed to dissolve in the hot water.

While she had nothing to complain about her first night, the toll on her body was simply too great. Every part of her body screamed in pain. In fact, it was as if Gaius never left her.

Upon realizing that Gaius had engraved himself into her, a sweet yet numbing pain ran through her chest.

Louisa stared blankly at her own body, which was immersed in water. But then, Gaius caught her by surprise by kneeling on the side of the bathtub while rolling his sleeves. At his feet were a bucket of glittering, hot water, a pitcher, and a soap.

Gaius seemed to play the role of a helper to assist her.

As a princess, Louisa never bathed without the help of her maids. While she was grateful, she was extremely embarrassed to let Gaius do such a thing.

…But well, he has seen me naked before.

However, at the time, she was too drunk to feel embarrassed. As of the present, she was completely sober.

As she wondered what to do, a question came to mind.

“Are you not going in?” Louisa blurted.

If he hadn’t taken a bath, she was going to tell him to go in first.

Gaius, however, smiled wickedly.

“If that’s what you want, I’ll consider it.”

“No, that’s not it—!”

She truly didn’t mean it that way, and angrily denied it.

As if he had seen that coming, he rested her head on the edge of the bathtub.

“I do want to stay inside you forever, but it’s enough for today. I’ve exerted you.”

He held her head, and gently poured hot water over it. At the enveloping warmness, Louisa closed her eyes in bliss.

Why does it feel so good?

Since she loved the sensation, back in the days, Louisa always looked forward to her daily baths in Valentia.

Did she ever tell Gaius about it?

…He remembers something that not even I do.

I’m happy, and at the same time, I’m in pain…

Gaius, are you aware of that?

The crippling sensation was etched at the bottom of her stomach.

Why did you betray me?

You said that I’ll be your wife forever—

—was it a lie?

Nevertheless, Louisa muffled her accusation, and pretended to not mind.

She didn’t have much to say. After all, they both had to live in the present, not in the past.

…I have to be upfront with him.

She had to end this abusive relationship, and return to Charule.

However, she still didn’t know his aim. Regardless, if she didn’t persuade him somehow, even the Duchy of Valentia would be at risk.

…At that moment, the sensation of warm water running through her scalp shut her up.

…The pleasantness was chipping away at her resolve.

…I’ll tell him, after the bath—

—As she muttered under her breath, Louisa was astounded at her own weakness.

“Your hair has grown.”

Gaius spoke as he rinsed her hair with soap.

…Well, twelve years have passed.

She answered inwardly, but didn’t dare to say it out loud. If she were to talk about their past, she would lose control.

Not minding her lack of reply, Gaius cheerfully recounted the past.

“I once braided your hair while you were asleep.”

Did that happen?

Finding herself about to think of the past, Louisa scolded herself. She mustn’t, lest her current circumstance elude her.

It’s like I’m walking on thin ice…

A wrong step, and she’d be in the deep sea—

—and not just her, but Gaius as well.

In order to protect him, she’d have to break the status quo.

“I wasn’t that skilled in braiding, but the softness is simply too inviting.”

“Gaius.”

Louisa flatly interjected Gaius’ cheerful recollections.

“…I’m sleepy.”

Feeling that she was rather harsh-sounding, she reflected and added that, causing Gaius to laugh.

“You may sleep. Leave everything to me.”

He whispered gently, and dropped a faint kiss on her eyelids.

If only I could forget everything and be with him…

Once again, she was astonished by her own thoughts.

Nevertheless, Louisa put a lid on her growing impatience, and silently surrendered herself to Gaius.

***

Sunshine fell on her eyelids, and Louisa’s eyes fluttered open.

She sighed as her gaze was greeted by the same canopy yet again.

Looking to the side, Gaius—who had slept with her the night before, was nowhere to be seen. She was alone in his bed.

Rubbing her hazy eyes, she forced herself to rise.

Last night, she was pounced on by Gaius, and passed out in the middle of the act. She didn’t remember anything, but the stickiness had gone from her body, perhaps because he had wiped her clean.

…How long has it been since you were brought here?

Two, or probably three days had passed, after all, she had seen the morning sun twice.

…Even if it’s only two days, the fact that I’ve been kidnapped on my way to Adriace should’ve reached Charule. My father and Mr. Lorenzo should’ve sent a search party, but the real question is who’ll take the blame?

She was kidnapped at the border, right when her escorts were about to be swapped with the ones from Adriace.

As such, it was a matter of who’d take the blame for the abduction of the princess.

Most likely, both sides would try to shift the blame. After all, by imposing the responsibility to the other, the country would gain more advantages through political marriage.

Well, otherwise, it wouldn’t be called a political marriage.

Still, as the captive, she felt somewhat remorseful…

Anyway, I have to return…

Even if she was unable to return, she had to find a way to contact her father.

Until that point, she couldn’t, because Gaius stuck to her like glue.

…And not just that, we’d tussle in bed all the time.

Upon recalling that, she was so flustered, she could faint. Louisa covered her flushed face, and took a deep breath to calm her mind.

She wasn’t exaggerating when she said that from the day they first made love, Gaius had been embracing her. At night, she’d be railed by him until she passed out, and when she woke up, Gaius would take care of her needs.

Afterwards, he’d drag her to the bed and they’d go at it until the next morning.

Although it had only been two or three days, she was at his mercy, as he embraced her all day long, depleting both her mental and physical strength.

If not for the emotional baggage, she might not be so tired.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case.

Gaius had a wife, while Louisa was betrothed.

Despite fully aware that she was betraying them, she marveled at his touch, yearning for more.

…Since when did I become this foolish?

When it came to something she desired, she just couldn’t help herself—and she loathed that part of her.

She never knew she had such an uncontrollable desire.

During the twelve years we hadn’t seen each other, she was aware of how she obsessed over him—

—But now? It was even worse.

In the first place, she doubted it was an obsession.

Every time he touched her, everything became irrelevant. As a result, she was powerless at the thought of touching him.

It wasn’t just physical pleasure.

Instead, it was a sense of gratification—as if everything had been fulfilled—which made her vulnerable.

…Now that I think about it, I always feel like something is missing.

After she had separated with Gaius, there was a void inside of her. His memories would fill the emptiness, while his letters would serve as painkillers.

However, the moment he embraced her, the emptiness all but ceased.

No, it wasn’t just that.

In his embrace, she was filled with a sense of euphoria, and there was nothing else she’d want.

…It’s like a drug.

Louisa was mortified.

Originally used as an anesthetic, it was said to be a forbidden fruit that once tasted would make someone crave for it over and over again.

Despite knowing that only destruction awaited her, she still couldn’t bring herself to stop.

Gaius was that drug.

…I’m scared.

Louisa embraced herself tightly.

I can’t stay like this.

Louisa gritted her teeth.

—I have to escape from here.

Why did Gaius kidnap her? Was it so that he could bring her back to Valentia and make her his mistress?

Merely imagining that made her stomach churn. Nevertheless, her feelings were irrelevant.

Gaius was the Duke of Valentia, while Valentia itself was a small country at the Westernmost point of the continent. If Charule and Adriace became its enemies, it’d be destroyed in an instant.

…As a ruler, why would you kidnap someone like me?

Did he think that as long as no one finds out, it’d be okay…?

But right now, her father and Lorenzo should be frantically searching for Louisa’s whereabouts.

On top of that, Gaius boldly attacked while the escort knights from both Charule and Adriace were present. Unless they killed everyone present, there should be a lot of witnesses. It was probable that some testimony would lead to Gaius.

In the first place, if such a large-scale kidnapping incident were to occur, even a child could imagine that it’d develop into an international issue. There’s no way Gaius couldn’t see that…?

Back then, Gaius used to be smart. He’d read a lot of books to Louisa, who knew nothing. Furthermore, he’d explain what a country was like, what politics were supposed for, the meaning of God, and so on in easy-to-understand terms.

The man who understood the true nature behind their marriage at the age of 10—along with what it meant to serve as an intermediary between nations—couldn’t possibly unlearn that at his current age.

Louisa wanted to know what he was up to, and what he was going to do—but Gaius never gave he the chance to ask.

“…Regardless of his intentions, I have to escape.” Louisa muttered.

If she didn’t escape from that place and inform her father of her safety as soon as possible, it’d become a full-blown war.

I also have to make up a story to conceal Gaius’ identity…

If Gaius’ involvement in the kidnapping were revealed, the Duchy of Valentia would be destroyed, while Gaius’ execution was nigh. She had to avoid that.

After all, even if he’d become such a foolish rogue—one who’d stolen her virginity—Louisa still loved him.

Therefore, even if they weren’t destined to be with each other, she didn’t want him to die.

I must be a fool…

In a situation where her motherland might be thrown into a war because of her, she—as a princess—was drowning in love.

…Hence why I’ll just carry on with my life while hating him.

Everyone’d agreed that it’d be better to live somewhere faraway while contemplating, “Ah, how I hate him. Unforgivable.” Rather than letting love consume everything.

“…Now that I’ve made a decision, it’s time to act.”

Louisa got up and decided to look around.

The room she was in resembled that of a nobleman’s villa.

The furnishing was aged yet expensive, while the window overlooked the garden. Judging from the height, she seemed to be on the third floor. Jumping out of the window seemed out of the question. The door was securely locked, as well. Apparently, she was not supposed to leave that room.

“He’s so thorough…”

Sighing, Louisa frantically scanned the room.

Is there any resort for aristocrats near the border between Charule and Adriace?

Considering how difficult it’d be to carry someone unconscious on a horse, Louisa was probably taken there by carriage. Besides, if he insisted on riding a horse, it’d just slow them down. Although the feat itself wasn’t impossible, all he had to do was stuff her in a sack and carry her like luggage. But even Louisa would’ve noticed if he resorted to such senselessness.

…Therefore, this place is probably within a day’s drive by carriage. As for the kind of place that’d fit the bills—

—Louisa envisioned a map in her head. From the border checkpoint, wasn’t there a place that could be reached by carriage in less than a day that could serve as a resort for nobles?

Is it Ballad?

It was a mountain health resort famous for its hot spring. And it was within the range from the checkpoint.

However, it was closer to Elandia—which bordered on the West; rather than Adriace—which bordered the South of Charule. Since Valentia was further West of Elandia, it might be a sensible route to take. Still, it didn’t mean that the place was without any risks.

After all, Ballad was once part of Elandia territory, and even now, there were villas of Elandia’s nobility.

As of the present, Charule and Elandia were on very bad terms. In other words, it was a resort area where villas of enemy countries stood side by side.

The presence of Louisa—the princess of Charule—wouldn’t bode well.

She’d be safe as long as no one found out. Nevertheless, as royalty, Louisa was known for having platinum hair and violet eyes. It shouldn’t be difficult to recognize her. Even more so in a situation where search parties would be dispatched in various places to search for the missing princess.

Therefore, her presence would only serve as a threat.

…But considering that this is a resort for aristocrats, I might be able to ask the nobles of Charule for help?

Anyway, if she didn’t escape from that mansion, nothing would happen.

Louisa searched the room, but found nothing of use.

Not even a single hairpin remained, so she couldn’t attempt to lockpick. Before kidnapping, she had worn a lot of hairpins for her updo. After regaining consciousness, her hair was loose. Did he do that in anticipation of her escape?

“…He’s disgustingly well-prepared.” She mumbled.

Well, even if she had any hairpins, it wasn’t like she could lockpick, so it’d still be useless in the end.

What about the window?

She tried to tug on the clasp, and although it was very tight, she managed to lift it. The window creaked open.

“I did it…!”

Louisa’s eyes lit up as she looked down… Before gently closing the window once more.

Sure enough, it was high.

I’ll surely die if I jump from this height…

Either that, or she’d suffer grievous injury.

Since her dying wouldn’t solve anything, she pondered about what to do.

…Still, if the only exit is through the window, then I’ll have no choice but to somehow escape from there, even more so now that it has come to this.

Louisa returned to her bed, before tearing the sheets apart. After that, she tied the ends of the ripped sheets tightly.

With this, I have with me a long rope…

While the strength was somewhat concerning, the makeshift rope should be able to sustain her weight.

She had to do it before Gaius could make his way here. But then, as she was about to set her plan in motion, there was a knock at the door. Louisa jolted, and spun around to see if it was Gaius—

—There stood a tall, chestnut-haired woman.

W-who…!?

Louisa, who’d never seen anyone other than Gaius so far, stared astonishedly at the woman.

Is she a maid?

After all, the woman was wearing a rather plain dress. Seeing that she was holding a tray of piping hot dishes, the woman seemed to have brought her meal.

“What are you doing…?”

The woman eyed Louisa and tilted her head.

Thus, Louisa finally regained her senses and realized that she was making rope to aid her escape. She hastily hid it behind her back.

…Of course, it was too late.

“N-n-no way, did you rip off the sheets to make a rope…? Were you planning on escaping through the window?”

At her accurate guess, Louisa’s eyes swum.

The woman exhaled deeply, before placing the tray on the sideboard. Then, she approached Louisa and pointed straight at her face.

“There are many things I’d like to say—but first and foremost, the sheets are unlikely to hold your weight. As soon as you climbed on them, the knot will either unravel or tear, and you’re going to fall as it is. If you’re looking for a makeshift rope, I suggest a more durable material, such as that curtain.”

“Huh…?”

Louisa didn’t expect to receive feedback about her escape attempt. Moreover, she didn’t know how to react to the woman’s alternatives…

What on earth is she…?

As she stood there in silence, the woman smiled wryly and showed her the highest form of courtesy. Louisa stared in shock at her graceful gesture.

“Pardon the late introduction. My name is Vanozza. I’ll be serving the princess for a while.”

“Eh…?”

Apparently, she was a maid, but her mannerism and attire made it difficult to believe.

No matter how you look at it, isn’t she a noble…?

Could someone who lived their entire being served serve someone else? But in the royal castles and palaces, it wasn’t uncommon for noble ladies to serve as maids. With that in mind, Louisa asked her.

“But you don’t look like a maid…?”

Then, the woman—Vanozza—rolled her eyes and laughed in amusement.

“Oh, dear! Then, what do I look like?”

When her question was answered with a question, Louisa became speechless.

…Isn’t it strange for a high-ranking noble lady to serve as a maid in a mansion of a rural resort?

Although, come to think of it…

Didn’t she refer to me as the princess just now?

In other words, she knew that Gaius had kidnapped the princess, and colluded with him.

If there existed a woman who’d lend a helping hand to a mastermind who’d willing to turn the mighty Charule into his enemy, then it was either because she was enamored with him, or because Gaius had her weakness.

Upon realizing that, Louisa was taken aback.

“U-uhm, are you on good terms with the Duke of Valentia? Otherwise, you wouldn’t have offered to take care of me…”

As she spoke, nausea began to rise in her stomach.

What if she’s Gaius’ mistress…?

Louisa arrived at a chilling conclusion.

After all, despite being aware of the dreadful situation, the woman still agreed to take care of the princess. Was it perhaps because she couldn’t resist Gaius? Because of her deep infatuation for him?

If that’s the truth, then what do I do…?

With bated breath, Louisa waited for the woman’s reply.

Perhaps sensing Louisa’s anxiety, Vanozza made a shocked expression and shook her hand.

“Oh, please don’t misunderstand? It isn’t like that! While I’m indeed on good terms with the Duke of Valentia, it’s in no way romantic like the princess thinks! Please believe me!”

“Is that so?”

There was something in the woman’s appalled expression that convinced Louisa. Louisa rubbed her chest in relief. As a matter of course, she didn’t want to experience the hell of being served by Gaius’ mistress.

“Then, what is your relationship with him?”

If Vanozza wasn’t his mistress, then who was she to him?

Despite being aware of Gaius’ scheme, an aristocrat like Vanozza still cooperated with him. Sensing a hint of conspiracy, Louisa furrowed her brows.

…Is there some kind of political reason behind my kidnapping?

Was the Duchy of Valentia trying to stake their claim in the conflict between Charule-Adriace and Elandia? Even if so, kidnapping the princess was still too extreme of a method…

…Could it be that there was another reason?

If her captor were from Elandia instead, it wouldn’t be strange if the kidnapping was done in purpose of driving a wedge between the Charule-Adriace alliance.

In any case, the conflict between the three countries shouldn’t have much effect on Valentia.

…I’m not the only target?

Even if she spun the facts in her head, she couldn’t reach the answer, probably due to the lack of information.

To Louisa, who made a stern expression, Vanozza became downcast.

“I’m sorry, but I can’t tell you everything. Still, it’s a collaborative relationship—nothing more, nothing less.”

Vanozza looked straight into Louisa’s eyes as she said so. Her eyes didn’t seem to be lying. Louisa sighed and nodded.

“…I understand, I believe your words.”

Since Vanozza herself had declared that she couldn’t provide further information, she couldn’t pursue the matter anymore.

Then, Vanozza made an exaggerated gesture of relief and patted her chest.

“What a relief! For the sake of the future, it’d be better for me to not incite the princess’ misunderstanding!”

“…For the sake of the future?”

Louisa raised an eyebrow.

“What’ll happen in the future? What am I supposed to do after this!? What is the Duke of Valentia planning!?”

Right now, knowing that was of the utmost importance.

What’ll Gaius do from now on?

At Louisa’s pointed questions, Vanozza cringed and averted her gaze.

“I-I can’t answer that… You’ll have to ask Duke of Valentia himself—”

“—That’s…”

But I asked you because I can’t do that—!

However, when Louisa was about to say that, the husky voice that interrupted her gave her chills.

“That’s right, Louisa. Don’t just talk to Vanozza—talk to me, too.”

The voice tinged with amusement belonged to none other than Gaius.

When she slowly turned her gaze toward the door, an attractive figure was leaning against the door while staring at her.

“Gaius…”

Louisa muttered as she stared at him, and before she knew it, he was already on his way to her.

The moment he saw the remains of the sheets on the bed, Gaius raised an eyebrow.

“Oh? What’s this…”

Despite his calm tone, his eyes weren’t smiling. After eyeing the strips of cloth, with a flick of his hand, the piles of cloth landed behind him.

“Vanozza, clean this up.”

Vanozza didn’t budge.

She snorted, lifted her chin, and glared at Gaius.

“…Please stop ordering me around? I don’t remember becoming your subordinate.”

Upon hearing that, Louisa was taken aback.

She had always thought that Vanozza was Gaius’ subordinate.

But is that not the case…?

Considering that Gaius was the lord of a country—a small one, but a country, nonetheless—only his equal may speak to him that way.

…Seriously, what is the nature of their relationship?

Looking at how the two bickered, Louisa tilted her head.

“Then, can I beseech you to kindly prostrate yourself before me, Your Majesty?”

“Why should I oblige?”

“You don’t seem to be aware of your position, yet. I could dismiss you to Sardinia with just a single word.”

“Just try. You won’t get a single grain of Sardinian salt without my permission.”

…Somehow, she could see the crackling sparks between the two.

Are they really on good terms?

Also, Sardinia? I feel like I’ve heard that somewhere…

It was probably the name of a local city, but Louisa didn’t even know where it was. Even if she memorized all the names of the cities in her own country, it was impossible to do the same in terms of other countries.

However, judging from the conversation, they were probably discussing a salt mine…

I wonder if the Vanozza family has the right to sell salt from the salt mine of Sardinia?

To secure weapons and horses, many countries on the continent had restrictions on the sale of salt and iron. Needless to say, iron was required in smithing, while large amounts of salt were needed to breed horses.

Only those who’d brought the right to sell from the state may sell salt and iron. Nevertheless, in terms of pricing and quantity, they still needed to abide to the government’s regulations.

In the case of salt, the family who owned a salt mine and had long made a living from it usually had the right to sell it.

Perhaps, Vanozza’s birthplace was a salt industry house.

…Then, does it mean that Gaius is eyeing her family’s salt?

It had turned into a nasty story.

As she blanched, Louisa straight up asked Gaius.

It was a question that’d land her in deep water.

“Are you planning to start a war with Charule!?”

Gaius, who was arguing with Vanozza, smiled at her interruption.

“Louisa, what were you planning to do with the sheets?”

Again—! Her question was answered with a question—!

Louisa grew frustrated.

“Are you not going to answer?”

“—Were you trying to escape?”

It was a one-sided conversation.

Thus, Louisa got mad and admitted it in frustration.

“Am I going to escape? Well, of course I am! I’ve made up my mind!”

With a genuinely puzzled look on his face, Gaius tilted his head.

“Why?”

“Why?”

She wanted to laugh at the silly question. After all, it wasn’t the kind that she’d expect in that situation. However, Gaius went on in perplexation.

“You’re my wife. It’s only natural for you to stay by my side, for I’m your husband.”

Upon hearing his argument, Louisa was overcome with the urge to hit his handsome face.

How could the man who’d married another refer to Louisa as his wife!?

He’s too shameless!

Louisa was so angry, her head started to ache.

Louisa took a deep breath, before pulling Gaius by the collar.

“There’s no way I can sit idly and watch as war breaks out while being held captive by a madman! Set me free! For the sake of my alliance with Adriance, I must marry Lorenzo Agnadello!”

As soon as Lorenzo’s name came out of her mouth, Gaius’ eyes gleamed. His silvery gaze was so sharp, it took her breath away.

“Who’s marrying whom…?”

It was a low, earth-crawling voice.

“You’re my wife.”

Louisa was horrified and retreated a few steps.

“Princess…”

Vanozza said in concern, only to be silenced by a single look from Gaius. She was so speechless, to the point her sassiness until just before seemed like a lie.

“Leave.”

“B-but…”

“I won’t repeat myself.”

At the ultimatum, Vanozza shot Louisa an apologetic look, before silently withdrawing from the room.

Louisa felt like a frog—a frog stared at by a snake.

“Louisa, in the short time we haven’t seen each other, you seem to have forgotten who your husband is.”

While kneeling on the bed, Gaius began to unbutton his blouse.

He was smiling, but the same couldn’t be said about his eyes.

His expression… He’s truly angry…

Louisa gulped—he was terrifying, but she just couldn’t back down like this?

Mustering her courage, Louisa confronted Gaius.

“I’m the Princess of Charule. I have to fulfill my duty. If I don’t marry Adriace, the alliance will collapse. I’ve loved you for a long time. True to our promise in the past, I’ve longed to be your wife. However, as of the present, we carry the weight of our nations on our backs. Therefore, sometimes, arranged marriage is just inevitable.”

…I see.

Louisa was painfully reminded of it.

Just like herself, Gaius probably married his late brother’s wife out of convenience. After all, marriages of royalty and aristocrats were rarely non-political.

Gaius may have been the same as me.

As she continued to obsess over his childhood sweetheart, she insisted on believing that fate would eventually bring them together. Unfortunately, the circumstances didn’t allow it, and she had to settle for a marriage of convenience.

Even so, her love remained, refusing to disappear. On the contrary, the more she tried to let go, the more she grew attached to Gaius.

Therefore, if Gaius was the same as her, it’d make sense that he still believed Louisa to be his wife. He just refused to see marriage of convenience as a “marriage.”

However, he was unlikely to convince anyone with that logic—such was reality.

“…Gaius, you’re already married. I’m fully aware that I’m in no position to say that, but… Please take good care of the woman who has become your wife. Even if it’s political in nature, the two of you still share a connection as a husband and wife.”

At that point, Louisa didn’t even know if it was Gaius she was trying to convince—or herself.

Louisa wanted to laugh—

—I can no longer be by his side.

As a leading figure of a nation, her path was already laid before her. It was just unfortunate that their paths didn’t cross.

“Love your wife, Gaius.”

Of course, she only said that in passing, but she’d never admit that.

Instead, Louisa desperately mustered a smile.

Gaius remained silent as he looked down at Louisa.

She wistfully stared back at him, hoping that her words went through—

—But in the next moment, she despaired.

“…Is that all you want to say?”

“Gaius—!”

Why wouldn’t you understand me?

When she called his name in an accusatory manner, Gaius sneered and took off his shirt.

“As you wish, I’ll love my wife.”

As he pushed her down the bed, Louisa repeatedly struck his chest.

“Like I said, I’m not your wife—!”

Even when her fist softly hit his chest, he didn’t budge. Despite his lean appearance, his chest was unexpectedly solid and elastic, making her fists bounce.

In response, Gaius caught a hold of her wrists, before restraining them above her head. He laughed—akin to a cat tormenting his captive mouse.

“Didn’t I promise you? Even if we’re apart, you’ll always be my wife.”

Pain shot through her chest.

…He’s cunning!

Louisa had always believed in Gaius’ oath. Hence why, she went awash with emotions at the mention of the pledge. After all, it was the same promise that got her to cling to him in spite of her status. She’d even fantasize about him kidnapping her in broad daylight and fleeing somewhere.

Tearfully, Louisa glared at Gaius.

“…Weren’t you the one who broke the promise in the first place? I’ve been waiting forever…!”

She accidentally blurted that accusation.

Her mouth had betrayed her—

—Until her final moment, she didn’t want to admit that she’d been pinning for him. After all, she’d be admitting how foolish and miserable she was.

“…I know, I’m sorry.”

Gaius whispered in a surprisingly soothing voice, which shocked Louisa.

Even though he had such a terrifying face until just a while ago, Gaius’ current smile was meltingly sweet.

“…What are you laughing at?”

“It’s nothing.”

With a nod of assent, Gaius caressed Louisa’s cheek with the back of his hand.

His touch was so gentle, she wanted to cry all over again.

What a terrible man…!

Only at times like this would he fake being kind—!

What an unscrupulous bastard!

Despite knowing that, she marveled at the warmth of Gaius’ hand.

To prevent him from seeing her tears, Louisa turned away. However, Gaius held her chin.

“Show me.”

“No!”

“I want to see how adorable you are.”

He didn’t pay her refusals any heed!

Despite how annoying it was, the kiss that fell afterwards quickly dissolved her anger.

In an attempt to reject his tongue, she gritted her teeth. But even that only lasted for a moment.

…Argh.

Whenever Gaius began to touch her, Louisa couldn’t refuse him no matter what. She’d advised herself against it countless of times—nevertheless, he was the only one she loved; the only one she ever wanted.

After thoroughly savoring the inside of her mouth, he grazed her upper jaw with the tip of his tongue, causing her to tremble. The sensation reverberated to depth of her belly

Seemingly aware of this, he praised her for being cute in-between kisses. Why did she feel so elated when Gaius called her “adorable”?

As the kiss lasted, Gaius began to strip Louisa’s clothes. Even so, she was wearing nothing but a nightgown. In no time at all, she was wearing her birthday suit.

“—Nn, mm…. Mn….”

Gaius nimbly moved his lips. He’d lick, peck—and when she thought he was done, he’d adjust the angle and kiss her again. Even her breathing was at his behest, and the kiss had Louisa at his mercy.

As his tongue swirled, the saliva made a sloshing sound. Feeling that even the sound was teasing her, Louisa intertwined his tongue with hers.

“So cute, Louisa… What am I supposed to do with you?”

When he whispered so in her ear, her shoulders jumped. Louisa’s eyes fluttered open, capturing Gaius in them.

In a somewhat bullish manner, Gaius smiled.

“I want to satisfy my wife. So, tell me, what’d you like me to do?”

As he said that in a honeyed tone, his wide palm cupped Louisa’s breast. Louisa blushed as his bony fingers squeezed her milky skin. Somehow, it felt as if she’d seen something she shouldn’t…

Upon seeing that, Gaius chuckled.

“Take a closer look.”

With that, he helped Louisa sit up. Then, as if she was a child, he placed her on his lap and embraced her from behind. Surrounded by his entire body, Louisa felt safe.

“Hey, can you see it now?”

As he spoke in a coddling manner, Gaius fondled Louisa’s breasts with both hands. Then, he began to tease her nipple, causing it to stiffen. Due to the obscenity, Louisa turned away.

“That’s not good. If you don’t take a proper look, you won’t know what you want, right?”

Gaius nibbled on her earlobe as he reprimanded her softly.

…This is, embarrassing—!

Nevertheless, Louisa realized that she also wanted to see more. Still, she was embarrassed—so much that she kept averting her gaze. Perhaps impatient, Gaius bit her nape.

“Ah—it hurts, hyaa—…”

Almost at the same time, Gaius twisted her erect nipples.

“What do you think? Whenever I pinch your nipples, you always become wet.”

As he rolled her nipple between his thumb and index finger, her lower half began to throb. She recognized the feeling as the sweet ecstasy of a woman. At the vivid pleasure, nectar began to overflow from the depths of her belly.

“Ah—uuh… ah, ahn—”

His tongue wandered all over her ear, while his fingers tormented her nipples. Louisa squirmed and rubbed her inner thighs as she moaned.

Each and every single one of his touches made her tingle.

If he were to caress her already oversensitive body, it’d surely lead to even greater satisfaction.

When Louisa began to grind on his knees, Gaius swallowed.

“Hey, don’t provoke me like that. You have to tell me what you’d like me to do.”

However, despite saying that, Gaius held Louisa’s waist and pressed his scorching rod against her. She could feel something hot and rigid at her entrance, and her body burned with craving.

“Ah, no, don’t move it like that…”

Her helpless entreaty fell on deaf ears.

“Aren’t you the one who moved? C’mon, tell me exactly what you want me to do.”

Gaius said as his hand softly caressed her inner thigh—

—At last, she couldn’t take it anymore.

As his hand loomed at her thigh, Louisa caught his wrist and led it to the base of her leg and said;

“—Right here, I want it here…!”

Those were the only words she could afford to say—yet, Gaius wouldn’t show her any mercy.

“Here?”

In amusement, Gaius combed her thin pubic hair with his fingers. But that wasn’t what she wanted. Louisa softly shook her head, leading his fingers to the bud right above her honeypot.

Finally, Gaius smiled happily as if satisfied—

“—I see, you also like having this tiny bead played with.”

Hearing him chuckle, Louisa was about to die from shame.

But when Gaius began to tease her clit, said embarrassment soon ceased.

“Ah—ah! Haa, aah—mm, aaah—”

Using his thumb, he gently kneaded her clit, and a wave of pleasure ran through her body. It was as if she’d been stung by a small thunderbolt. Upon confirming that her flower bud was completely erect, he rolled it between his fingers.

“Hya—aah, aah… No, don’t… that’s—Gaius!”

As her mind turned blank, Louisa’s legs gave out.

Her hips shook as her nectar overflowed.

“Look at how soaked my hand is. It seems that I’ll need to plug it”

True to his words, Gaius thrusted his fingers into her drenched honeypot.

“Mmm—!”

At the sensation of foreign object penetrating her hole, Louisa shuddered. After all, her hole hadn’t completely unraveled, yet. However, it only lasted briefly, because she soon got used to it. As Gaius began to mess with her inside, Louisa was about to burst into tears.

…It would’ve been better if I could just accept him and live as it is.

However, she’d have to become Lorenzo’s wife. Soon, her body would cease to be one that only knew Gaius. Realizing that, she relished their moment together even more.

In the narrow honeypot, Gaius began to move his fingers. He’d wander inside her folds, and occasionally would probe around.

“You’re a mess.” Gaius commented.

How mean—but she didn’t even have the chance to say that.

“Louisa, lift your hips.”

Gaius whispered as he held Louisa’s knees from behind.

“Ah…”

As Gaius held her, she adjusted her posture and pressed her waist against his belly; her soaked entrance sitting right on top of his erection.

Looking at his thick and erect rod, her body trembled with anticipation.

“Here I come.”

In the next moment, Gaius dropped her waist, letting the full length of his member sink into her.

“Hyaaaa—!”

Due to how fast it was, Louisa started seeing stars.

Despite the pain of her folds being forcibly separated, her narrow entrance soon adjusted to his size, as if welcoming him.

“It feels good.”

Groaning, Gaius bounced Louisa’s body on top of him.

Along with the bobbling movement, she was penetrated deeply. Perhaps due to the unusual position, it felt as if her stomach being carved out—and the pleasure; similar to the urge to urinate—soon overcame her.

“Ah, ah—no, ah—aah! Aah…!”

As if she was nothing but an instrument, she endlessly cried in ecstasy. The wave of pleasure started to erupt in her stomach. When his hard and thick rod plunged into her innermost part, she was confused to no end. At the same time, she could feel her inside tightening around him, so much that she could make out the shape of his member. It was as if she was asking him for more.

“—Ah, Gaius… Gaius!”

Losing herself in the feverish throes, Louisa begged for his help. She knew that he was the one who drove her crazy in the first place. Despite this, the same man also held the key to her release.

“Aah, Louisa, how beautiful you are…”

With a sickening sweet smile, Gaius moved his hips and probed her inside with his rod.

“Aaah—!”

Despite reaching her deepest part, he dug even further and her vision turned white due to the stuffy and mind-numbing pleasure.

“Aah, amazing, you’re tearing me apart!”

Somehow, Gaius’ ecstatic voice sounded like an echo.

By that point, all of her senses were solely trained on pleasure.

The time was near—

—Louisa’s body, lost in ecstasy, gradually tensed up in preparation for what was about to come.

Her vagina sucked the assailing meat rod.

Thus, Gaius gasped—

“—Louisa…!”

As Gaius desperately uttered her name, Louisa could feel that he was growing bigger.

“—Ugh…!!”

Along with his groan, Gaius thrusted into her deepest part, and Louisa squirmed with bliss.

As a white, hazy world filled the entirety of her vision, something hot gushed inside her belly. Instead of terrified, Louisa was delighted to receive his seeds.

Before she went limp, Gaius embraced her tightly from behind.

Finding solace in his arms, Louisa relinquished her consciousness.

***

After cleaning the sleeping Louisa, Gaius tucked her under the blanket before taking his leave.

…By purposefully wearing her out, Gaius took away her means of escaping.

But then, Gaius recalled how she cried while saying that she’d been waiting for him for a long time—and a smile crept to his face.

“You’re the only one for me, Louisa—always.”

Despite being flustered when he referred to her as his wife, along with her subsequent attempt to run away, Gaius was aware that she’d penchant of contradicting herself.

For as long as he knew, Louisa had always been a bit dishonest.

From an early age, Louisa had always been educated as a princess. Therefore, she couldn’t openly express her feelings. If he hadn’t seen her crying under the lilac tree, he wouldn’t know how expressive she actually was.

…Furthermore, she’d basically admitted that she was pinning for him the entire time. Despite their decade-long separation, they still believed in each other …as if they were soulmates.

Upon hearing that, Gaius felt that all the hardships he had to endure was worth it.

On the table, laid a vegetable and meat stew, along with a glass of wine.

Since it was for Louisa, Gaius had a potful of stew prepared, but it didn’t seem like she’d be eating soon. Well, he wasn’t complaining, because Vanozza was there to eat them.

“You only have dinner now?”

Lifting his eyebrow, he directed the question at Vanozza, only to receive a scathing glare from her.

“Well, thanks to a certain someone, I have loads of things to do, and only now can I get some food.”

…Still as chatty as ever.

Gaius shrugged his shoulders, not paying any heed to her sarcasm.

Then, he took a glass for himself and poured wine from the decanter that was placed in front of Vanozza.

“Would you like to eat as well?”

Not expecting that, Gaius could only shake his head lightly.

“No, I’ll just drink some wine.”

“Okay. I have to say, though, this stew is really delicious—!”

“Should I say, it’s an honor to be complimented?”

Like breathing, it’d become a norm for the two to argue with each other. As such, her compliment came from nowhere, and Gaius couldn’t help but be skeptical.

Vanozza sliced the meat using her spoon and shrugged her shoulders.

“The food is innocent. Even so, who’d expect this level of cooking from the ruler of a country?”

“If you’re an experienced hunter, this much is nothing.”

In Valentia, hunting was considered a sport—so much that deer hunting would be held annually by the duke. Then, the game would be cooked and eaten by the hunter on the spot.

“Really? That’s how you’re going to respond to my compliment? How annoying.”

“I didn’t ask to be praised by you.”

“Ugh, what a jerk! You used to be cuter when you were little!”

Gaius raised a single eyebrow at that. She spoke as if she’d known Gaius since forever.

Despite her young appearance, Vanozza—who sported a bitter expression—was actually ten years older than him. In the past, they’d indeed come across each other several times, but they weren’t close.

“Who cares. Why’d I want to be seen as cute by you?”

When he remarked—as flat as ever—Vanozza rolled her eyes and became silent for a moment. After exhaling deeply, she placed her hand on her cheek.

“…Aah, you really don’t possess a shred of social skills, do you?”

“I don’t feel the need to.”

“—Ugh, enough! More importantly, how’s the situation? Any contact from Marantz Island?”

Marantz Island was a small island in the Atlantic Ocean owned by the Duchy of Valentia.

In spite of that, its existence was forgotten until his father’s generation. Due to being a small, remote island with an extremely small population, it was neglected—deemed as valueless.

However, it turned out that iron could be mined from that very island—and no small amount of it.

At the discovery, Gaius immediately issued a gag order to prevent the information from circulating to other countries. After all, iron was sought after by every country. If a small, and not to mention, rural country like Valentia owned a rich iron mine, it was obvious that they’d try to snatch it away.

Before that could happen, he established a shipyard and a military base on Marantz Island. It was also because the remote island was perfect to build a warship and organize an army in secret.

Gaius sipped the wine, gulped it, and then spoke.

“We keep in touch on a regular basis. According to yesterday’s report, they seem to be rejoicing at the latest warship.”

The ex-pirate and governor-general of Grandage—Philippe Rodriguez—had blossomed into a full-fledged soldier, just as Gaius expected. Not only was he charismatic, he also had leadership skills. Furthermore, he was popular due to his ability to take on the world. Above all, as a former pirate, he was incredibly formidable. On this continent, there was probably no other navy who could match Philippe.

In addition, Gaius had bestowed Philippe with a new warship.

Continental countries that mainly engaged in ground warfare tended to neglect their shipbuilding technology. In other words, the continent’s shipbuilding technology remained undeveloped.

However, pirates were different. To them, a ship was a country, a home, and a fortress. Their desire to improve a ship was stronger than anyone else. Therefore, Philippe and the others knew of a country with cutting-edge shipbuilding technology.

It was an island nation called Kotai, which was located at the end of the Atlantic Sea.

While the land itself was poor and without any novelties, but Kotai had a long history of intermediary trade with the Western islands and countries on the Western continent. Furthermore, the people of Kotai were generally dexterous. Whenever the need to repair a ship arose, they’d always take care of it. As a result, their shipbuilding technology developed dramatically.

Apparently, shipbuilding had become their main source of income alongside intermediary trade as of the present.

Gaius sent Valentia’s shipwrights to Kotai to learn the craft. Afterwards, he made them build warships on Marantz Island.

The warship, built with cutting-edge technology, could be said to be invincible.

In fact, it’s the strongest in the continent.

Gaius smirked. He looked down at his right palm, before clenching it tightly—

—at last, he’d attained ultimate power.

With such an overwhelming military power, he’d drive away everything that’d taken Louisa away from him.

“It’s about time.”

At Gaius’ words, Vanozza nodded; her face flushed.

“That’s right, the time draws near… You’ll soon become the conqueror of this continent.”

Gaius snorted.

If she thinks that’s my end goal, then she truly doesn’t understand anything.

If anything, becoming a ruler of this continent was merely a means to an end.

After all, there existed a single flower that could only be attained after he’d drive them away.

…Louisa, finally—you’ll be mine.

He did it to reclaim his dear wife—whom he’d yearned for.