Her Majesty, Queen Nene
"Her Royal Majesty, Queen Nene, and His Royal Majesty, King Tsukasa!"
As they traverse hand in hand, the populace bows in respect, offering heartfelt congratulations on their union and ascension to the throne.
What a resplendent ceremony it was, indeed, with Her Majesty adorned in an opulent bridal gown, boasting an illustrious train, her beauty surpassing mortal standards, whilst His Majesty appears most distinguished in his frock coat regalia, now crowned with the most splendid and exquisite diadems upon their heads.
Their joy is boundless, their faces radiant with affection. Despite the anxiety that envelops Nene as the new queen before the gathered throng, she finds solace in the steadfast grip of Tsukasa's hand.
"Our most heartfelt felicitations, Your Majesties, it brings us unbounded joy to witness your splendid union." Proclaims Lady Shinonome with a radiant smile, while 'Lord' Shinonome gracefully nods her head.
"The ceremony was replete with sincerity and love; truly, you two are an exquisite match, and we ardently wish for the enduring strength of your marriage." Kanade expresses, bowing in deference alongside Ena.
"We are most grateful, Lady and Lord Shinonome, for your unwavering support." Nene replies with a gentle smile, embracing both of them warmly.
"Your Majesty...such public displays of affection are most improper..." Ena chuckles softly, yet reciprocates the embrace.
"I cannot contain my joy; my affection for you both is profound. Your support is of utmost significance to me."
"Indeed, Lady and Lord Shinonome, we hold you both in high esteem and are grateful for your kind word." Tsukasa adds, as smiles abound among them.
"I can scarcely believe you have wed...it seems but yestereve that you were running around the palace with Akito and An...while Miss Asahina was scolding you." Ena reminiscences, gently stroking Nene's hands.
"I am astonished as well..."
"Your Majesties, heartfelt congratulations! It brings me immense joy to witness your union in matrimony and your radiant happiness; may your love delightfully entwine your souls for eternity." The Duchess Airi performs a gracious bow whilst beaming, gently nudging Lady Shinonome with her arm.
"Your Grace...could you not await your own turn?" Ena offers a smile, though silently admonishing the duchess, prompting Kanade to emit a chuckle.
"Your Grace, I am profoundly grateful. My heart rejoices in seeing you once more." Nene exclaims, enveloping her in an affectionate embrace.
"Oh, my dearest...you are an exquisite bride. I beam with pride for you...for both of you."
"Thank you, Your Grace...had it not been for your sage counsel, I doubt I would have summoned the courage to ask my lovely wife for her hand in marriage." Tsukasa speaks softly, clasping Airi's hand.
"I am overjoyed that all has concluded splendidly."
"Your Majesty." The esteemed former monarch Toya addresses Tsukasa, inclining his head slightly. "Your Majesty...my most exquisite, intelligent, and extraordinary daughter...Oh, you are truly sublime. My heart rejoices for you, and I love you; my heartfelt congratulations." He gazes affectionately at Nene.
"Father...your kindness overwhelms me, I love you too." Nene beams and embraces him, Toya bestowing a gentle kiss upon her forehead.
"May your marital union be graced solely with happiness." Toya's smile radiates warmth.
"We are profoundly grateful for your benevolent words and for entrusting us with your esteemed responsibility." Tsukasa responds, prompting a chuckle from the former king.
"It is Miss Asahina to whom you ought to extend your gratitude, for she is the true mastermind behind of all of these royal affairs."
"Your Majesties, our profoundest congratulations." Proclaims General Shinonome, executing two courteous bows whilst supporting the arm of Lady An, inciting gentle laughter from Nene. "My...enchanting wife is...far along with child, rendering it quite arduous for her to bow."
"Hush now..." Lady An retorts, attempting a modest bow. "Your Majesties, we are overwhelmingly joyful for your esteemed selves! May misfortunes forever remain strangers to your days."
"Do not exert yourself, Lady Shinonome, we express our gratitude for your kind sentiments." Nene joyfully responds, embracing Akito whilst attempting to include An in the embrace. "I am elated by your presence...Should you feel unwell, dear Lady An, you are under no obligation to partake in the festivities. I shall see your leave as no ill will." She chuckles, yet An resolutely shakes her head.
"I am in splendid spirits! I shall revel this evening, my princ—my queen!"
"As your heart desires."
"General Shinonome...behold us, beautiful wives and a cherished camaraderie!" Tsukasa exclaims, hugging Akito closely. "I am most grateful for all that you did for me."
"No trouble at all, my king; I shall ever stand beside you and our esteemed queen." Akito replies with a warm smile, gently patting him upon the back.
"And my gratitude extends to you, Lady Shinonome; you radiate beauty, the glow of your pregnancy is most becoming!" Tsukasa declares, eliciting a resigned sigh from An.
"It rendered me quite...big."
"Indeed, you are rather big." Akito remarks, only to be lightly hit upon the head by Ena.
"Boy, refrain from casting aspersions upon your expectant spouse..."
"Ah, mother, what a splendid surprise to behold you today..."
"Step aside." Ena gently pushes him away to grasp An's hands with a warm smile. "Pray tell, how do you fare in this fine day, my cherished?"
"I am well, my lady, I express my deepest gratitude." An's smile brings forth a frown from Akito, prompting Kanade to chuckle and tenderly soothe his back.
"Do not take it to heart, my dearest; you shall become accustomed to this..."
"Such a sentiment seems...most dreadful..."
"Oh my, Your Majesties, it was a profound honor to officiate your sacred union! May you never find yourself in peril. And to my oldest and dearest friend...congratulations on your escape from imbecilic ignorance." The Archbishop chuckles, bowing to the noble couple.
"What splendid words you do convey, the Most Reverend..." Tsukasa sighs, whilst Nene shares laughter, both of them embracing the Archbishop gently.
"We are most thankful, Your Excellency, for your esteemed services." Nene remarks, as Rui surveys the gathering, his gaze resting upon Akito, who swiftly hides behind his mother, despite his towering stature.
"Mother, protect me!"
"Have you gone mad, child? Leave me be..."
"Forever a mother's darling..." Airi chuckles whilst Toya gazes on, amused by the unfolding spectacle.
"Why do you conceal thyself from me, my General? I gaze upon you solely out of...love. The joy of our camaraderie fills my heart with delight."
"I am certain, Your Excellency...yet your smile troubles me..."
"A wondrous husband, who hides behind his mother, forsaking his wife..."
"I have counselled you, dearest, to forgo wedlock with the General should you harbor doubts." The governess's frigid tone casts a momentary silence over all. "Your Majesties, my illustrious Queen and King, I extend my sincerest felicitations." Miss Asahina proclaims, executing a deep bow.
"Miss Asahina...perchance you are correct..." An states, prompting Akito to pout in displeasure.
"We are most delighted for you, Your Majesties! That ceremony was resplendent; may your happiness together be everlasting!" Miss Akiyama beams with joy.
"I believe you are the sole one in ecstasy, Miss Akiyama..." Murmurs Ena, provoking a glance that said 'Be quiet' from Mafuyu. To that, Ena grumbles in discontent.
"Miss Asahina, Miss Akiyama, we express our profound gratitude. It fills my heart with joy to behold the two of you in such elegance today, verily splendid."
"It was most arduous to persuade Miss Asahina to wear an exquisite gown, my queen...you know her penchant for simplicity; clad only in dark dresses or trousers and shirts akin to a gentleman..." Miss Akiyama chuckles, eliciting a weary sigh from Miss Asahina.
"Pray, do not trouble Her Majesty, Miss Akiyama..."
"I extend my deepest gratitude to you, Miss Asahina, for your gracious blessing...I swear to cherish my queen with the utmost care!"
"I shall place my unwavering trust in you, my king. Today, you shall indulge in merriment beyond measure, whilst the morrow shall bring forth matters of state, my queen."
"Verily, Miss Asahina..." Nene chuckles, enveloping both the governess and the seamstress in an embrace. "It is a most joyous occasion to have you all present...My heart is full of delight."
"Your joy is paramount to me, Your Majesty," Mafuyu replies, returning the embrace with warmth.
"You are a most exquisite couple, Your Majesty; I am assured that all shall unfold perfectly, and you shall reign with great magnificence."
"I thank you kindly, Miss Akiyama."
"Dearest brother!"
"Saki! You are present?!" Tsukasa, taken aback, embraces Saki with fervor.
"I would not forsake my brother's nuptials for all the treasures of the realm!" She beams with joy and envelops him in her arms. "How dare you conceal your wedding from me, pray? And lo, you have ascended to kingship!"
"I beg your pardon, beloved sister...I merely wished to spare you the burden of travel, for your health is most important. How did you come by this knowledge?"
"Her Majesty did request my presence personally, ensuring that a physician and two guards remain at my side, lest any mishap occur. Your bride is most gracious, dear brother; she expressed that seeing me here would bring delight to both your hearts, caring not if the ceremony be momentarily interrupted should I falter...she is a woman of noble character, and my joy for you is boundless." She speaks, and Tsukasa, in utter astonishment, gazes upon Nene with a tender smile.
"My queen...you are...! My love for you knows no bounds."
"I reciprocate your affections. I entreat you not to harbor animosity for my actions conducted in secrecy...yet I sensed the profound significance of Lady Saki in your heart, thus she must be present."
"No, I could never, my queen. My joy knows no bounds, and I am eternally grateful for the tenderness and love you have bestowed upon my cherished sister."
"Verily...she is now one of our own."
It is evident that all present are filled with great joy for their new Queen and King, engaging in delightful discourse until Their Majesties take to the floor for their inaugural dance as newlyweds.
They do dance with such exquisite grace, that fair Nene feels naught but serenity in his presence, for she is well acquainted with his manner of movement, of dance, of breath. No misstep escapes her, even as their gazes find only each other, heedless of all else. Their smiles, soft and laden with affection and yearning, entwine as their noses gently meet, while onlookers stand enraptured by their splendid choreography and radiant love.
It is abundantly clear that Her Majesty holds a cherished regard for the former Lord Tenma; all her previous suitors are keenly aware that her gaze sought solely his, as she rejected all others. Though some may deem this union a folly, lacking concern for their joy, those who truly understand and cherish this couple rejoice in the bliss of their long-awaited matrimony.
As the couple twirl in joyous revelry, gradually more join in the dance, with Lord and Lady Shinonome enveloped in a tender waltz, their laughter a sweet serenade of affection exchanged between them. Meanwhile, the General and Lady An venture forth, cautiously engaging in a tentative dance, constrained as her...circumstances permit.
From all corners of the kingdom, and beyond, a diverse tapestry of souls gathers, each bearing their unique narratives of struggle and love.
Miss Asahina surveys the hall, her gaze falling upon Miss Akiyama, whose eyes radiate with delight at the enchanting tableau before them, prompting her to softly whisper:
"Accompany me."
Miss Akiyama adheres to the command and soon finds herself upon the vacant balcony with Miss Asahina. The sun above retreats languidly, whilst the melodies from within still reverberate even in this secluded haven. Miss Asahina extends her hand to Miss Akiyama, evoking her utmost joy. As she graciously accepts, they engage in a dance, slow and fervent. Though barred from the grand spectacle indoors, they are entirely satisfied to partake in their solitary waltz, with naught but the heavens as spectators to their affection.
"Your Grace, might I have the honor of this dance?" Inquires Toya gently, extending his hand towards the Duchess.
"Your Majesty, do you still possess the skill of dance?" She responds, a playful smirk gracing her lips as she flutters her fan.
"I do indeed and...I am no longer the king, thus that title bears no weight, Your Grace."
"Ah, how true...what identity do you claim now?"
"In theory, a prince; in practice, I remain whatever appellation my lovely daughter deems fit, even Duke if it pleases her."
"So you aspire to usurp my title?" Their laughter mingles in the air.
"Perhaps~"
"I regret to inform you, but I shall not yield easily; the mantle of Duke carries formidable responsibilities. Can you fulfill the duties I uphold?" She queries, her smile imbued with mirth.
"I only jest, of course, Your Grace. You shall eternally hold the title of Duchess in this dominion, until time marks our departure."
"And you shall ever remain my king. Forsooth, it is you I have faithfully served for numerous years; it feels most peculiar not to address you as such."
"I am immensely honoured, yet I have relinquished the mantle of king. Such a title has never piqued my interest; I find greater joy in having abdicated, bestowing the privilege upon my daughter and her noble consort. They embody the loving union this realm so dearly requires. She is prepared, and I am most eager to behold how events shall unfold under her esteemed rule. Naturally, she has the esteemed Miss Asahina to guide her, but I am confident she shall carve her own path, ushering in an era of prosperity. I am poised to embrace a tranquil existence, allowing my heart to navigate the remainder of my days.
I have never perceived myself as a king; rather, I have perpetually been the free-spirited young prince Toya, running in the mud with my two ladies...or at the very least, you and I, with Ena crying that we have soiled her garments whilst pursuing her with farm creatures..." He chuckles, provoking mirth in Airi as she accepts his hand.
"Indeed, let us await what bounteous fortune life shall grant us all."
They do engage in dance, albeit somewhat clumsily, for their hearts are set upon playful quarrels whilst twirling...yet joyously they laugh in unison.
"Alas! Oh dear! I beg your pardon! I have collided directly with you...Oh! The Most Reverend..."
"My lady, fret not for my wellbeing. Are you not injured?" Rui offers a gentle smile, affectionately patting Saki's head as a brother would. "What was your intent?"
"I sought to behold my brother more clearly...for it is difficult to perceive from the sidelines..." She giggles, and he graciously extends his hand towards her.
"Shall we partake in the dance? Slowly, indeed. You may catch a better view upon the dance floor." He queries, to which Saki beams with childlike glee as she nods in acquiescence.
The Archbishop and Lady Tenma partake in a gentle dance, engaged in joyous discourse. Rui, ever the diligent guardian, ensures the young lady's comfort, striving to lead the dance with grace, mindful to avoid inducing any disorientation, whilst Tsukasa casts him a warning glance that clearly conveys: 'Proceed with caution where my cherished sister is concerned,' eliciting an amused smirk from His Excellency.
"Pay him no heed, dear Tsukasa..." Nene laughs as they twirl.
"I endeavor to...Do you find joy, my radiant queen?"
"I am exceedingly joyful; are you so?"
"Indeed, the utmost happiness I have ever known; I eagerly await a lifetime united with you." He bestows upon her a tender kiss.
"Cliché..." She chuckles, yet returns his kiss with warmth.
"You love me~"
"If you affirm such thing..."
"Do you not???"
"So very loud...I do love you."
"I love you as well."
All is resplendent, tranquil, and fulfilling, as our noble characters, having endured manifold trials, now bask in serene bliss. The future, a realm of uncertainty, holds enigmas yet untold; one cannot rewrite the script of existence, but must embrace the hand one is dealt, ideally beside a cherished companion. Concerning the newly anointed queen and king; may joyous fortune grace their days, may their love never dissapear, may the tribulations of their reign be rendered light, and may they govern jointly to effectuate as much change as destiny allows. May their lives never be devoid of each other! We also eagerly anticipate the arrival of delightful progeny from their union!
As your most esteemed narrator, I proclaim: may your existence too be illuminated with joy, may love grace your path, and may life's adversities never beset you fiercely.
For, indeed, every tale demands a conclusion, yet it is the knowledge and emotions one carries forth that holds true significance.
Fin