🔊 TTS Settings
Chapter 07
Because they had to hide Ares’ true identity, the wedding venue’s layout had been hurriedly changed, but the servants of the ducal household followed the orders perfectly.
Most of the nobles of this era were initially bewildered by a place designed like a modern hotel wedding hall, but they soon found themselves pleased with the structure, which included tables and chairs for resting.
“The Duke really knows how to surprise us. It was strange enough to take such a woman, but to have such a bold wedding ceremony… And to not even greet anyone before it started? Truly unpredictable in every way.”
Countess Jeanne whispered to the lady sitting beside her, while Duchess Nerita, who had been quietly sipping her tea, spoke up.
“That ‘woman’? You’d better choose your words carefully. As of today, she will be the mistress of the House of Havinant. Surely you know what kind of family the Havinants are.”
Duchess Nerita, the de facto head of the Nerita family—one of the Empire’s five sacred noble houses alongside the Havinants—spoke with authority. Countess Jeanne flinched and bowed her head at the powerful lady’s words, realizing she had been too careless.
“My apologies, Madam. I’ll be more careful from now on.”
“Oh! Why be so solemn on such a joyful day? Honestly, for someone old like me, this chair is a godsend. Ever since my body suffered during the intercontinental war, standing for long periods has been unbearable. Honestly, I wish there were more events like this!”
Duchess Nerita’s husband, Duke Nerita, who was seated beside her, laughed heartily, easing the atmosphere. Since he had completely withdrawn from social events after his body had grown weak, no one could help but stay silent at his words.
“Young people really are considerate. And perhaps because they’re modern, they’re also quite clever.”
Among the nobles, Duchess Nerita was the only one who held favor toward Herina. She smiled, thinking of the cleverness hidden beneath Herina’s youthful appearance. Clearly, this behavior could never have come from a conservative duke. One couldn’t help but find such cuteness endearing.
“What matters is where you came from. You’re worth more than anyone else here.”
“The Duke and Duchess of Havinant are entering!”
The noise subsided as grand music played and magnificent fireworks exploded. The weather, as if congratulating the ducal couple, was clear and windless.
“The couple is entering together?”
Guests, stunned by yet another shocking move, finally stood to applaud. But the applause didn’t last long.
It was not only because of the bride’s beauty but even more because of the groom, who wore a veil.
“The… the Duke… the Duke of Havinant is wearing a veil…”
“The veil isn’t all! There’s a ducal crown on the bride’s head!”
At a wedding from one of the most legitimate houses, the lord showing such a sight was unheard of. Some traditionalists even pretended to collapse, clutching the back of their heads in shock.
“This isn’t a big deal.”
Herina snickered at the scene. Beside her, Ares struggled to remain calm, unable to shake the thought that he had personally shattered the Havinant family’s long-standing prestige.
“Ares, scared?”
“Scared…? Where did you learn such frivolous words?”
Ares clamped his teeth to control his shocked expression. Herina, still smiling, said lightly, “Don’t be scared. I told you, as long as there’s justification, it’s fine. And do you really think a great family like yours could crumble from a single eccentric act? You’re stronger than you think.”
Only after Herina and Ares stepped onto the long carpet running through the hall did the music stop. They bowed to each other and faced the guests. Since everyone had never seen such a display, the nobles could only stand and watch.
“May all honored guests please be seated,” said the master of ceremonies, and the nobles awkwardly returned to their seats.
As the hall quieted, Ares spoke with determination:
“Thank you all for attending despite your busy schedules. You may have been startled by the unusual proceedings. However, this wedding reflects the life we, as a couple, intend to lead: considering our guests, avoiding unnecessary formalities, and making choices entirely of our own. This ceremony is the first expression of that.”
All eyes were on the veiled Duke, wondering what he could possibly mean.
“We will not read a traditional declaration of marriage. Instead, we have exchanged something deeply meaningful to symbolize our mutual responsibility and shared burdens. My wife and I will rely on each other, share all decisions equally, and support one another in every aspect.”
As Ares paused, the ducal crown atop Herina’s head glinted in the sunlight.
“Please witness that we shall act in ways worthy of our positions.”
The nobles, still stunned, applauded. But the next statement from Ares was entirely unexpected:
“I also believe all present share our intentions. In that spirit, we will make a donation to the Empire on behalf of everyone here today. It won’t be a flashy display like other banquets, but it will honor your attendance.”
Normally, newlyweds would greet their guests after the ceremony. Ares had removed that custom entirely as a special measure.
“Are there really people so thoughtful? Indeed, this proves the might of one of the Empire’s five sacred houses!”
Before anyone could object, a voice at the end of the hall clapped loudly. Herina’s eyes widened.
“Your Highness the Crown Prince…”
The second prince, who was supposed to be abroad, had secretly attended the wedding. Neither Herina nor Ares expected his presence.
“I, of course, am honored to participate in this meaningful occasion with everyone here.”
The nobles who recognized him rose respectfully, and the prince nodded with a casual air. With his presence, the nobles left without objection, even leaving with a sense of pride.
“Honestly, the sense of pride may also come from the expensive gifts…”
The hastily prepared booklets allowed guests to select desired gifts to be sent to their homes, leaving no room for complaint. Staying any longer would have been tiring anyway.
After the ceremony, Herina returned to the mansion, kicked off her shoes, and relaxed. Ares lowered his veil and sat comfortably.
“I have no idea how the day passed. No matter how I think about it, it feels like we’ve already done all the crazy things we’ll ever do in a lifetime.”
