For what is love?

It appears they have meticulously selected their horses in accordance with their distinct characters, for the horses of Akito and An desire a spirited contest, Tsukasa's horse is exuberant, exceedingly animated and vociferous, whilst Nene's horse ambles at a leisurely pace, seeming somewhat hesitant to proceed.

"Do you take pleasure in the art of riding, Your Highness?" Tsukasa endeavors to remain as near to her as prudently permissible.

"Indeed, it is quite soothing, riding at a gentle pace whilst reveling in the resplendent images of the nature surrounding us."

"What inspired you to propose such an activity?"

"I simply wished to discern whether your equestrian prowess matches your acting talents~" Nene smirks wryly, a soft laugh escaping her lips.

"I am a true gentleman; riding is an endeavor I embrace with ease, for I harbor no fear of becoming soiled!"

"Is your lordship impling that I possess a fear of but a trifling mud? I must caution you, for the Duchess has imparted to me the virtues of enduring dirt without mourning my gown."

"A lady of thy stature...I can scarce envision you soiled. Yet, I would not dare question my princess’s resolve."

"The truth be told, I yearned to elude the gazes of those at the ball...it does fill me with profound unease to be amidst strangers whom I care not to know. At every gathering, I often entreat Lady Shiraishi to accompany me in activities away from the crowd, or I clandestinely retreat to my library. This is the reason our paths have firstly crossed only at the behest of our first dance, Lord Tenma."

"It is indeed a marvel to witness a princess who dreads the spotlight, harboring trepidation towards her illustrious peers. In truth, I do share thy sentiment, my princess." He bestows a gentle smile, his gaze imbued with wistful recollections.

"What do you mean by that, my lord? You appear decidedly unperturbed by the scrutiny of those surrounding you."

"The way I am often leads others to form erroneous conclusions about my character; they perceive me as brash and arrogant in my pursuits of excellence, yet none seek to delve deeper, choosing instead to offer polite smiles whilst whispering behind my back of my supposed madness. However, I accept this, for I cannot deny my own shortcomings."

"My Lord... it pains me greatly to learn that you let yourself affected by the whispers of the populace regarding your character. Verily, I too find thy presence rather thundering..." Nene playfully giggles. "Yet, you are so much more than such triviality; your artistic prowess in both acting and writing theatrical plays is nothing short of magnificent, and you have indeed left me most impressed. You are a noble soul with a heart of grand stature; you never sway from your desires, nor do you falter in thy readiness to act when called upon. My father has mentioned to me some tales of your noble endeavors on behalf of the villagers, not merely in recent times. You are humorous and charming; you drive me to madness, indeed! Yet, I find myself yearning for more of your whimsical exploits. You instantly adopt a most gentle demeanor when you deem your actions excessive; you are courteous and respectful, yet never dull, as you are well aware of when to indulge in jest. I hold a firm belief that you are a most virtuous man." She continues whilst Tsukasa finds himself, perchance for the very first time in his existence, utterly bereft of words. He blinks repeatedly as if to ascertain the reality of the moment, for the princess stands before him, and her utterance was indeed true.

"I am rendered speechless, truly, Your Royal Highness...it appears you comprehend my plight after all." A tender smile graces his face, and his eyes gleam with youthful exuberance, causing Nene’s heart to flutter wildly as if she was delecting her eyes with the most resplendent masterpiece in existence. "I thank you...''

''That face suits you splendidly, Lord Tenma.'' She remarks shyly, a smile illuminating her features. ''You are most exquisite.''

''A compliment? From my cherished princess? I scarcely can believe it! I shall now depart this mortal coil with joy!'' He exclaims with sardonic mirth, prompting her to chuckle softly whilst rolling her eyes in amusement.

''You possess a remarkable talent for ruining the moment...'' Nene replies with laughter, as Tsukasa beams with delight.

"Yet not as radiant as you are. For your smile could melt the iciest of hearts, and your harmonious laughter could give to the deaf the gift of hearing. For your divine, penetrating gaze could pierce my heart a million times with a dagger, and I would implore for yet more.'' He continues, now Nene, caught unaware, blushes at his declarations.

"I...must thank you, my lord. You appear in good spirits today." She bestows a wry smile, causing Tsukasa to emit a soft chuckle.

They traverse at a leisurely pace, side by side, engaging in delightful conversation regarding the most whimsical of subjects...yet, should your gaze shift towards the General and Lady Shiraishi, a different atmosphere prevails. Once positioned behind the princess and the count, their intrinsic rivalry propels them past the esteemed duo, embarking upon a contest of speed, their conversation...far less amiable.

"Lady Shiraishi, it appears you have fallen behind; I was led to believe riding was thy forte, yet it seems I may have been mistaken~"

"Were I in your shoes, my General, I would do well to remain silent, you shall soon be forced to consume your own words!" An declares, irked by the General, urging her horse to hasten with increasing speed. "Who has fallen behind now? Taste the soil, you insufferable wit!"

"Ugh...Alas! You are the most irksome lady I have ever encountered! Such disgraceful conduct!"

"Verily, losing does not grant you the need to disparage your adversary! I once deemed you a worthy rival, yet you reveal thyself as an arrogant and selfish knave!"

"I shall not lose before you! The tally of our triumphs remain equal!"

"Only for the reason that, despite my endeavours, I cannot extricate myself from thy presence! Perpetually you continue to align thyself with me! I detest you!"

"The feeling is most mutual, Lady Shiraishi! You are indeed a vexation...driving me to madness! How can one provoke such ire in me, whilst evoking such admiration?!"

"A-Admiration?" For but a fleeting moment, An succumbs to a momentary lapse of self-awareness, thus neglecting that which lies before her. "Such utterance...is most unbecoming! How revolting! Pray, refrain from uttering such words again!"

"An! Exercise caution, before you strike thy head upon a tree!" Akito exclaims, An instinctively paying attention to the path before her.

"Alas! Steady, boy, cease thy tumult!" She admonishes her horse, yet it appears vexed by an uninvited bee, thereby tossing her about in disarray. With utmost swiftness, the noble general dismounts his horse and hastens to her aid, catching her just as she was about to be swung off of her horse.

"Good heavens...Annie! Are you unharmed?" Akito enwraps her in his embrace, scrutinizing her with a look of concern. Perplexed, she gazes at him, bewildered by her lack of injury and the general’s evident trepidation.

"I am...well." She commences, gazing deeply into his eyes, endeavoring to convey her wholeness. "Aki, behold, I am unharmed." A gentle smile graces her lips, whilst he exhales softly in relief.

"I would never forgive myself should any misfortune befall you. Pray, forgive me, for I have erred."

"I am not as delicate as you suppose. I would have survived..."

"You are insufferably...obstinate. Your fortitude matters not; I would ver much rather not witness you suffer. Do you truly wish to burden our governess with your injuries? She would have my head upon a spear were anything to happen to you whilst I am in your company...Lady Shiraishi."

"Oh..." She exclaims, somewhat discontented with his answer. Is it solely the governess that prompts his intervention, and not the care he claims to have for her? Yet, why does Lady Shiraishi desire such concern from the general? "You are indeed correct. Thankfully, I am well."

"Lady Shiraishi! Are you well? What transpired?" Nene hurries towards them.

"I am well, Your Highness, fret not; my horse was...disturbed by a mere insect, and I, alas, let go of my hold. All is well, for General Shinonome did catch me."

"Oh, good heavens...thank the stars you are unharmed, Lady Shiraishi." Tsukasa interjects. "Do you require assistance?"

"Nay, I require no aid; I merely seek to recover my horse, for it appears it has not ventured far." She replies, as Akito gently sets her down.

"Remain here, I shall retrieve the horses forthwith." The general does urge her to regain her composure after the slight fright.

"I possess the capability to manage that myself."

"I feel utterly remorseful...I have summoned you here, and you were nearly harmed." Quoth Nene, inducing An to relinquish her obstinacy with a gentle sigh.

"My esteemed princess, I am in good health. Do not entertain thoughts of blame upon thyself; it was my own folly, and you have committed no wrong." She bestows a soft smile, prompting Nene to dismount her horse and sit beside An, clasping her hands delicately, whilst Akito hastens to retrieve their horses. Tsukasa follows the princess, diligently inspecting Lady Shiraishi for any signs of injury.

"You did give me quite a fright; do not engage in such acts again."

"I humbly beg your pardon, Your Royal Highness; I shall henceforth exhibit greater attentiveness." An clasps Nene's hands with a smile, Tsukasa left to ponder the well-being of Akito as well.

"It is prudent that we return to the palace, for this day’s riding has been ample..."

"As my beloved princess wishes."

For what is love without a touch of enmity? What, indeed, is love for if not to drive one to madness for cherishing the most vexatious soul known? What is love if it is not filled with surprises, unanticipation and delightful perplexities? What manner of affection does General Shinonome harbor for Lady Shiraishi, and does she reciprocate such sentiments? What emotions have flourished betwixt Princess Nene and Lord Tenma? What, pray, is this enigma we call love? Yet, one truth remains immutable, from the very dawn of Earth to this present hour, and into the realms of yonder: love always binds us all.
Despite all, humanity's heart knows love in an abundance of forms and manifestations, whether it may be familial affection, a reverence for the cosmos and the nature around, camaraderie amongst good friends, or a shared yearning for a life entwined as one with a partner.
Furthermore, the adoration for artistry and inanimate treasures we hold dear is encompassed within love's vast embrace. Love it is the pursuit we ardently seek, yet often the source of our greatest anguish. If so, why do we choose to love? The answer may always elude us.