Chapter 488

Common Holiday Brief Story Yues Case First

Even writing more than ten thousand words didnt enough so only [Yues holiday] got divided into first and second part.

Sorry that all the chapters are long recently.

Augusts morning. It was finally the summer vacation period, even so most working adult would still start working industriously at this time. At such time,

Nn, finished.

A very satisfied voice could be heard in the kitchen of Nagumo residence.

It was Yue wearing a T-shirt with short sleeves and a pure white frilly ap.r.o.n on top of it. Also, she wasnt wearing anything other than underwear at her bottom.

Right now her physical appearance was in her university student mode, so the length of the T-shirt that she also often used with her original appearance was just barely sufficient in various senses.

Fuhn fu fu~hn

It seemed that her mood was great.

Her glossy lips formed a gentle curve and the toes of her bare feet tapped the floor rhythmically. She also shook her bottom which emphasized the artistic curve of her waist.

With her doing that, her barely fitting T-shirt was also fluttering. Glimpses of her low-rise type adorable white panty appeared and disappeared in accordance to that movement. Of course, the line of her tight bottom also peeked out sometimes as though to say You called?.

It was a very stimulating appearance right from the morning. But, the person herself showed no sign of looking bothered at all. Her hands were absorbed with stuffing a variety of things into a wood basket before her.

ah

Something like a wet towel fell off. It flopped down on the floor. Yues hand reached out toward it with her upper body bending forward, but for some reason she kept her legs lightly crossed without bending her knees as she did that.

Because of that her smooth and slender and long bare legs that were like white porcelain became even more p.r.o.nounced. Naturally, the T-shirt that was just barely protecting the frontline got forced to retreat until the waist.

What showed themselves were naturally the bewitching bottom jutting out tantalizingly.

Hajime? Whatre you doing over there?

Yue-san finally noticed the existence of the observer due to her reaching out her hand to the floor like that.

Her posture froze in that bending down state as her eyes widened toward the entrance of the kitchen diagonally behind her.

Over there leaning on the wall with his arms crossed was the figure of the husband staring at his wife with eyes that looked like an appraiser carefully scrutinizing a treasure. His eyes looked really serious.

Looking at Yue.

He proclaimed very boldly. Perhaps it was just her imagination, but even his expression looked sharp.

While using even Presence Isolation with artifacts a.s.sistance?

Exactly.

It was truly a bold proclamation! His expression looked very sharp. He looked like he didnt feel even a shred of guilt from sneaking a peek at his wife.

Geez, why didnt you call out?

Yue asked that question even though she looked like she already knew the answer. Her lips were forming a thin smile that looked mischievous but happy.

She straightened her posture and ran with small footsteps toward Hajime whose expression became somewhat dejected from losing the view.

She snuggled up to him very closely, causing her abundant chest that made her ap.r.o.n and T-shirt stretched out to the limit became flattened.

It would be outrageous to destroy such lovely morning sight.

That was apparently the reason. It seemed that he was enjoying the back figure of his cheery wife in the kitchen that he even went through the trouble of applying full powered Presence Isolation on himself.

Fufu, then it couldnt be helped.

Yeah, it was an act of G.o.d.

Hajime replied like that with an extremely serious expression. Yue finally burst out into a laughter seeing that.

And then, she squinted her eyes lovingly and slightly stood on her toes. She tidied up Hajimes bed hair with her hand while giving him a light kiss *chu*.

Morning, Hajime. Did you sleep well?

Yeah, morning, Yue. Perfectly.

Hajime also squinted his eyes and kissed her back.

They stared at each other from a distance where their nose tips touched each other, however, Yue caressed Hajimes head once more with a gaze somewhat like she was looking at a troublesome person.

That so, then thats good. Do you want breakfast?

I guess. Ill fill my stomach a little before going.

Nn, got it. Im preparing it. Wait.

Yue looked at Hajime with a gaze that was full of affection. She also caressed Hajime until his cheek with her fingertip while separating from him. She turned around and turned on the stove that still had a pot placed on it.

While the miso soup was being reheated, she also started the preparation for making tamagoyaki.

Tou-san and Kaa-santheyre working huh. What about Shia and others?

Hajime stared at Yues back with a gaze that was a little different from just nowa gaze like he was looking at something precious, as though he was slowly digesting his happinesswhile checking that there wasnt anyone elses presence inside the house and asked.

Shia goes out shopping with Tio. For the trip.

Everything has been prepared from a long time ago right?

Apparently she has something more that she want to buy. Especially things for souvenir.

Aa, both of them have people they want to reunite with arent they? What about Myuu and Remia?

Shizukus place. Myuu said that she want to polish up a bit more before the trip.

Polish up?

Hand-to-hand? Golden right straight? Apparently she want the people at the dojo take a look at her technique.

Yue put in the seasoning and scrambled the eggs while looking back over her shoulder with a meaningful gaze.

In order to make someone know their place in the pecking order of daughter, using fist to talk isnt out of the question by Myuu.

That girl in the machine world huhI already told Myuu that Im not treating that girl as daughter though.

This isnt about logic. In other words, Hajimes at fault for radiating paternity indiscriminately.

Cough. Well, getting stronger is a good thing. Besides this is Myuu were talking about, so sh.e.l.l get along with her anyway. And, what about Lily?

At Okaa-samas place. a.s.sistant experience.

The princess wanted to bring manga culture too into Tortus, so she planned to completely devote herself to absorb the culture as much as time allowed.

*Sizzle-* A pleasant sound played out. Yues hand movement in making tamagoyaki was steady, and based from what Hajime observed, it seemed that her bad habit also didnt show up. It was a bit relieving.

Hajime. You dont need to be so vigilant, Im not putting any more seasoning than what I was taught. Be at ease and wash your face.

Ah, no, Im not

If you want to watch my b.u.t.t that much you can do it as much as you want later, so get ready for the morning first.

Yue put on a radiant and mature smile. Even though she often acted spoiled when she was alone with Hajime, sometimes she would acted femininely as an older woman like this. Hajime thought it was cheating.

And so, at this kind of time he usually,

Roger ssu.

He always nodded obediently without arguing back. Hajime couldnt win against Yue in a different sense compared to with Myuu. Although, sometimes it was also something that applied to Yue.

In any case, Hajime headed toward the washbasin in low spirits.

After a while.

The sound of time pa.s.sing from the ticking of the clock on the wall and the summerly cicadas cry from outside were the only sounds that could be heard inside the quite living room.

Yep, its delicious, Yue.

Thats great

Hajimes satisfied voice and Yues even more satisfied voice played out.

There wasnt anybody else than Hajime and Yue in the living room. The TV also wasnt turned on, so the always lively living room felt even more still and silent than normal.

But, it didnt feel lonely. It was a morning time that they spent alone with each other after so long. They thought that this wasnt bad sometimes. They had to enjoy it while it last.

Youve gotten a lot betteno, youve stopped doing anything unnecessary huh.

I think whats unnecessary is you saying that.

Hajime had washed his face, but he was still wearing pajama. Yue who was sitting at the opposite seat had also taken off her ap.r.o.n, but she was still just wearing a single T-shirt.

The atmosphere was leisurely and peaceful. The two certainly looked exactly like husband and wife rather than simply lovers when they quietly enjoyed their breakfast like this.

Just how many times do you think Shia had dropped her knuckle on my head or Remia lecturing me with a straight face? As expected even me wont add anymore arrangement when in the homes kitchen after that.

As expected from Yue. Even after all that youre still prepared to keep with that outrage in places other than Shia and Remias sanctuary.

What do you mean outrage?

I dont really get what youre sayingYue was pretending ignorance like that. Hajime smiled wryly.

But he really thought that her cooking skill had improved greatly.

The tamagoyaki was exquisite with shoyu base that suited Hajimes preference. The grilled salmon with salt was also simple but perfectly seasoned. She had also prepared salad with properly balanced arrangement.

Hajime knew that this was the result of her effort from her wish to make Hajime eat her homemade cooking sometimes, and also to be praised by her family. For some reason it felt very moving.

The fly in the ointment was how she was still secretly trying to sneak unknown foreign seasoning during some occasions like when doing camp cooking or the like.

Can I look forward to more like this for lunch?

Nn. Look forward to it. Ive prepared nostalgic lunch that is the most suitable for picnic as far as I know.

I wonder why. It feels like anxiety suddenly well up when looking at that smug face.

Its your imagination.

My imagination

Nn-

Its just my imagination huh, Hajime accepted it and sipped his miso soup.

Today the two of them planned to go to a picnic with just the two of them after this.

The detail of the date and their destination itself were suggested by Yue, but it was Shia and others who suggested that he had a date with Yue alone in this idle time today, a day before the trip.

The kind first wife often prioritized Shia and others to be able to spend time with Hajime rather than doing it herself. That tendency was especially striking when Hajime was drowned in works. She yielded the precious time for Shia and others.

That was why, this time today was most likely also a form of consideration and grat.i.tude from Shia and others.

After all there wouldnt be any time to be alone with Hajime for a while after they departed for the trip.

You look happy for some reason, yue.

Naturally. This is time that is given to us by the consideration of everyone after all.

They were drinking tea after finishing breakfast. Hajime could feel how Yues legs were swinging back and forth like pendulums under the table.

Even though they dont need to do this

Everyone loves you Yue.

I know. But, its not that.

Oh?

After all, Im the one with the highest ration of monopolizing Hajime at night anyway.

Thats why they dont need to feel bothered just from me yielding time for datesthat seemed to be what she meant. Hajime-san spontaneously choked on the after-meal tea he sipped.

Yue grinned mischievously seeing Hajime like that. She then landed additional hit.

Look forward to the night too.

I really dont know how to feel being told that straight from you yourself though!?

I had fun last night. Blush-

Can I ask you to not blush purposefully like that?

And yet, Hajime stared hard at my b.u.t.t first thing in the morning as though to say that its still not enough. Pervert

I-Im telling you its an act of G.o.d

Yue stood up and leaned forward. Everything inside was visible from the T-shirts neck with that posture. Furthermore *lick* her tongue darted out. She narrowed her eyes provocatively and whispered temptingly.

Want to have fun before going?

The seductive mood swelled out powerfully. The morning living room that was peaceful before this instantly felt like it had gotten invaded by pink colored atmosphere.

But, Hajime whose gaze was directed toward Yue as though a string was pulling him felt that his reasoning that was almost blown away got doused instantly.

His gaze was fixed toward the borderline T-shirt. It was Yues favorite lately.

Say, Yue.

Hm? Whaat, Hajime

Her tone was sickeningly sweet.

But however, far from becoming a beast, Hajimes gaze became sad instead, or perhaps conflicted.

Because, it couldnt be helped.

That T-shirt, cant you stop wearing it?

?

Yues expression became confused. She straightened her posture and looked down on herself. She pulled the hem of her T-shirt with both hands without even caring that her underwear became fully visible from that.

With that, the printed letters that were distorted because of the bulging of her chest became clearly visible.

I am vampire!!

Those were the printed alphabet letters. Furthermore they were written with skillful brush writing.

I think its uniquely good.

Really, isnt it too self-a.s.sertive?

Fufu, n.o.body will ever think that Im an actual vampire right?

That part seemed to really tickle Yues sense of humor.

Wearing a T-shirt with some kind of words printed on it as her loungewear. That was Yues current obsession for these several months.

It made Shia and others looked conflicted, but it was really popular with Myuu and Sumire. Yue then got carried away and started thinking quite seriously about going to the university also wearing such T-shirts. It was Shia and Kaori who seriously admonished her We kinda dont like it! against such plan.

It seemed the two of them wanted Yue to stay the pretty and cute Yue who made everyone turned their head and charmed them when outside.

Also, she had a collection with abundant variation like POWER!!!!, I can do it!!, (Tenjou Tenge Yuiga Dokuson), (Shimen Soka), etc, etc. (TN: =Throughout heaven and earth, I alone am the honored one. =Being betrayed (forsaken) by everybody)

She was wearing a T-shirt with the kanji (Muteki-) when she received delivery just the other day, so the delivery uncle burst into a snort at the entrance. (TN: =Unrivaled)

Hajime, lets go to Romania at our next date. I want to try looking the Bran Castle.

I understand that touring antique shop or old castle is Yues hobby butdont tell me, you arent planning to go there wearing that T-shirt right?

Fuh

Of course the two had also done the standard date like shopping or watching movie. But, what Yue especially liked since moving here was actually such date that Hajime mentioned.

Also, Romanias Bran Castle was a famous tourist spot that was used as the model for Draculas castle.

A genuine vampire wearing a T-shirt with the words I am a vampire! printed on it touring Draculas legendary landindeed, it was surreal. In the end, what would the local people and the tourists would think when they saw the inhumanly beautiful Yue?

It was vexing but, Hajime became a little curious when imagining it.

Well, its fine if Yue is having fun

Nn, its fun. I declare that Im having fun with all my being right now-

That so. Thats great ssu.

Her expression was smug to the utmost. She took out a fan from somewhere and snapped it open. As expected the fan also had kanji written on it. (Kouf.u.ku Mankai) (Happiness in full bloom). It was wonderful that she looked happy.

And? Do you want to have fun?

Yue-san mischievously smiled while keeping her T-shirt half rolled up. The letters I am vampire!! entered his eyes whether he wanted it or not.

As expected Hajimes expression became really conflicted.

Lets postpone the fun for the night. Right now, lets enjoy our date after so long.

Thanks for the meal, Hajime said while putting down his cleanly polished rice bowl and chopsticks before putting his palms together.

Nn Thats nice in its own way.

Your welcome, Yue replied back while smiling happily seeing that her cooking was eaten cleanly without any leftover. The lewd atmosphere was completely gone already.

Yue tidied up the tableware and brought them to the kitchen. Hajime stared at her back once more and scratched his head. His hair that had just gotten tidied up got tussled up again.

And then, he smiled happily.

If only this can continue forever

A lovely morning like this.

Those words that were filled with his feeling seemed to come out unconsciously.

Hajime blinked with a bit of surprise at his own words, then he let out a wry smile. He shook his head, then, he drained the remaining tea in his cup with one gulp.

Yue, Ill do the laundry. You should go get ready too.

Nn~. Then well do it together. Come to my side?

They entered into the kitchen with light footsteps.

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Hajime and Yue had finished the picnic preparation. However they didnt leave the house but went down to the underground workshop.

In front of Hajimes workshop, there was a place like an underground entrance that wasnt there before. It was created in consideration for the thereafter.

It was a circular s.p.a.ce with diameter around ten meters. The walls and ceiling and floor were all white. However, they looked like they were made from bricks (actually they were alloy). The s.p.a.ce looked like a mixture of science fiction and Middle Age Europe.

It was truly a design that was just like Hajime, a creator that combined magic and science to make.

How heinous despite the appearance. Im reminded of the movie C*be.

That was the first thing Yue said after she entered the entrance. It was a famous movie that depicted the dramatic escape of a man and a woman who got locked inside a trap labyrinth.

Hajime had shown it to her when it was just completed, but apparently she thought like that when seeing it again. A bit of exasperation could be glimpsed from her expression.

A place that you cant get out anymore once you come in huh? Well, I made it to antic.i.p.ate the small chance of someone hostile infiltrating here after all. So you arent necessarily mistaken there.

Magic circle was engraved on the floor at the middle of the entrance. There was a light source that looked like a chandelier at the ceiling. Pillars that were decorated with gargoyles and grand ma.s.sive doors were lining up the walls alternately at regular intervals.

Other than ten doors, everything else were detection & defense mechanism stocked with traps to restrain or kill intruder.

Of course, Shia and others had also made tsukkomi when they came here, What are you building at the bas.e.m.e.nt of our home?

But, for Hajime this kind of measure was only natural.

One day this place might become the gathering spot for world doors that connect directly to each world. There should be no problem with putting as much security as possible here.

Yes, the nine doors except the door that led to the workshop at the front were all world doors.

Currently only Tortuss door was operating, but the plan was to operate the other doors in order when the safety of each world was a.s.sured and various necessary countermeasures like defense system and the like were completed.

In other words, the picnic destination today went without saying. It was Tortus.

Well, certainly our home is right above.

Actually I thought of putting this somewhere else though. A place where the whole area including the surface can be destroyed if push comes to shove.

Nn, I heard. Hajime said the ideal would be a distant location where coming and going from that place to our home would be using a gate with strict security and many lethal traps.

Yeah.

Do you remember what we said?

Its more dangerous if you have to keep pa.s.sing through that kind of gate many times. Do you think youre like a certain treasure hunter somewhere? You guys said.

Nn

That was that. Yue and others were in unanimous agreement as they made that tsukkomi. Hajime could only bow before them.

Even though there was a directly connected door, it would quickly transform into a guillotine if by some chance they failed the authentication process. Having to go through such door over and over was exactly the C*be system situation. It was plainly troublesome.

As the result of getting hit by the unanimous tsukkomi, Hajime reluctantly compromised (?) by cramming the excessive defensive system into this entrance.

Also, in case the defense system was penetrated or destroyed, there was another system where the people inside the residence above would get forcefully teleported to escape. This system was installed in the whole Nagumo house itself.

It went without saying that Yue and others were watching with warm gazes seeing Hajime diligently turning the house itself into an artifact like a dad being a weekend carpenter.

At the middle even Okaa-sama and Otou-sama energetically presented The strongest my home fortressification that I thought up proposal, and Hajime yourself gleefully adopted the ideas

Cough. More importantly, your outfit today is really cute too!

Yues gaze was starting to turn warm again as she recalled that time, so Hajime hurriedly attempted to change the topic.

But, that didnt mean he was just speaking randomly.

Fufu, that so?

Yue-san twirled on the spot. Her face was prim but she couldnt completely hide the happiness she felt.

She wasnt wearing the lame T-shirt before this anymore.

Now she was wearing a largish white hoodie that was quite loose on her, along with black mini skirt and tights, and then short boots. Her hair was tied in ponytail.

Her body was still in the university student mode, but her appearance somewhat reminded Hajime of her travelling clothes in their Tortus era. However, that casualness was also displaying the current Yue, so it actually suited her really well.

By the way, I made it so the hoodies length is almost at the same length with the skirt.

Ou? Is that a hangup of yours?

The answer to that became clear when Yue-san turned her back toward him and lifted up her waist with a jerk.

Although her legs were covered with tights, it looked like she was wearing nothing but hoodie.

She was aiming at the borderline again. Hajimes heart was thrown into disorder!

Fufu-

Yue, be careful when therere other people present.

Of course, my guard is una.s.sailable for that so dont worry. After all Hajime is the only one I want to tempt.

We should go already!

No good, this lewd wife was trying to murder her husbands reason before the picnic! Hajime forcefully averted his gaze and headed toward Tortuss world door.

Yue followed behind him with light footsteps as though she was going to break out dancing. Her expression also looked very delighted.

By the way, Hajimes outfit today was also fundamentally coordinated around a white hoodie. It was Yue who recommended it. In other words, it was a light pair look.

That too was one of the factors that made Yues heart merry.

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They pa.s.sed through the world door that went to Tortus. The destination was as always the observation platform at the top of a tower that was beside the palace. The clear sky looked pleasant.

One day I gotta move the door over here underground too and build proper defensive system around it.

Yue-sama directed a reproachful stare filled with emotion toward Hajime. That was because she knew Hajime had also improved and added to the defensive system to the door over here just in case when making a direct line to Tortus.

Youre still going to do more? Her stare seemed t say that.

It was unclear whether Hajime was aware to that stare from his wife or not. Hajime approached the edge of the platform and looked over the ground.

We havent visited here for a while, but the city has expanded a lot.

The result of the city building that Liliana had been immersed in could be seen. It felt like the capital was already one and a half bigger than the previous one.

Hajime, ready?

Ou

Right after Yue confirmed with Hajime, his field of vision changed. Originally people who came here would use a lift magic tool to go inside the palace from this towers top, but this time they used Yues teleport.

As I thought thats really convenient.

Doyaa(TN: Smug sound effect)

Yue placed her hands on her waist and showed a gorgeous smug face.

What Hajime referred to by that was Divine Existence that allowed s.p.a.ce teleportation without using gate. At the same time that magic was also superior teleportation that could teleport other people too without touching them.

Yes, at present Yue had finally become able to teleport a target to a coordinate she decided without touching them.

Of course, it would fail if someone who could use s.p.a.ce magic resisted even for a little. The effective range also wasnt that big. In addition, there were also limitations like how she had to clearly imagine the target and the coordinate, but either way such feat was still categorized as an unparalleled technique among the teleportation type technique that had the highest level of difficulty.

Recently she often used it to teleport remote controls for TV or AC directly to her hand. Because of that she occasionally received exasperated gaze from Shia and others, but according to the person herself, it was apparently just practice, not laziness.

Though it didnt change the opinion of Shia and others how it was a really pointless usage of a pointlessly unparalleled technique.

It was then, the door of the room that separated the terrace where the lift was located and the inside of the palace was opened hard *BAAM*.

Usually they would think that it was Lilianas entrance. After all that was always the case when Hajime came visiting here.

But, the princess was already at earth. And then, if asked who was the person other than her who might come here the fastest

h.e.l.lina

Onee-sama! Your beloved step sister istsk

It was a female knight. The monster who self-proclaimed to be Shizukus soul sister and needed the teamwork of the hero and the chief of dragon race to subjugateto calm down.

You, did you tsk-ed just now?

? What could you possibly mean? More importantly Hajime-sama, and also madam. Please allow me to offer the warmest welcome. And also, congratulations for your marriage. I pray for a thousand blessings for the happiness of the both of you!

Ou, thanks.

Nn, nnu. Thank you?

Yes! Please follow me and I shall show the two of you the way to her majesty the queen!

The self-proclaimed step-sister knight saluted sharply by holding her hand over her chest. Hajime and Yues expressions became very conflicted. Their feeling of happiness from the congratulations and the feeling of suspicion toward the self-proclaimed step-sister knight were mixing together.

Youre the guide?

Yes. I received the order to transfer to the queens royal guards around three months ago. I have heard beforehand about honored guests arrival today, so I volunteered myself to her majesty to be granted the honor of giving the welcoming.

Wheres h.e.l.lina?

She is taking holiday! Because she can only do so while the princess is also taking holiday.

Aa, thats certainly true.

She was a person requiring special attention because of how deeply she had been submerged into the abyss of Soul Sisters, but she wouldnt transform into monster if Shizuku wasnt nearby (maybe). Hajime and Yue looked at each other and said Well, guess its fine.

Seeing that, the self-proclaimed step-sister knight said Well then- and turned around with a sharp turn as befitting a military officer before taking the lead.

For her to be a.s.signed a post in the queens royal guard definitely meant that the people in charge had judged that she surely, perhaps, maybe had gotten a bit better.

By the way, Hajime and Yue had taken into account how they would have to greet the queen. The picnic destination was decided to be Tortus because there was a place that Yue wanted to go to, but there was another reason which was them wanting to meet with the queen directly to apologize. Of course, there was also that the two wanted to follow the decorum and give greeting normally.

By the way Hajime-sama

Hm?

An opportunity, please bequeath me with just one opportunity to go to earth

Aint no way.

I heard how you are currently being extremely busy with the negotiations against the countries of earth. With my dark element magic, I am confident that I will be able to catch them unaware all at once and offer them to you as pet-

What kind of appeal method is that huh? Thats completely a villainous idea.

Nn. As expected this girl is no good. Her brain is busted.

In that case-, honored madam! Do you perchance have any plan to own a pet!?

Hajime, what to do? This girl is discarding even her dignity as human. Shes putting her life on the line in a sense.

Problem child(Soul Sister) would always be a Problem child(Soul Sister). Nothing had changed. Her brain had gotten completely infested by Sisters Soul.

She looked extremely dodgy with how bloodshot her eyes and how in closer inspection her hands were shaking like an addict going through a withdrawal symptom. Perhaps it was because she hadnt been able to meet with her beloved Onee-sama for very long.

Just as they were thinking that, right after,

Uu, sniffle-, hics-

Just whats going on with your emotion

She started crying for some reason. Hajime and Yue stepped away from her for about three steps. The self-proclaimed step-sister knight ignored the creeped out couple and started revealing what was inside her heart with haltering speech.

Even though theres the path that lead to Onee-sama right over there, I cannot pa.s.s it at all. Do you understand how I feel when I charged the instant her highness pa.s.sed through thinking that it was my only chance? My feeling as I keep stabbing my sword over and over, just like when Hajime-sama rushed into the holy precinct in order to save your dear wife!

Eh, wait. You did something like that? Howre you alive?

I wont die completely even if I die until I can serve at Onee-samas side. Even if Im crushed by super gravity field, shot at my limbs by laser, and blown away until outside the palace by spatial burst, the fighting spirit of Soul Sister is unyielding-

The people of the capital fell into terrorwhen a female knight suddenly fell from the sky with all her limbs bending the wrong way.

Chieff-, a woman fell from the sky in tatters with her face looking like demon-!!This girl-, shes still f.u.c.king slithering even though her limbs are in that state-it wasnt hard to imagine how terror and confusion spread out like that.

Hajimee

O-ou. As I thought, this fellow is totally bad news. No, That kouhai also got incomprehensible endurancemaybe its the Soul Sisters existence that is bad news.

In a sense, it was too late thinking about it at this point. The sisters of the soul who wished to get close to Shizuku-oneeasamas side sometimes would surpa.s.s the human limit.

The self-proclaimed step-sister knight shed tears of blood while looking over her shoulder to painfully and wordlessly begging for the pa.s.sage permission. Scary. It made the two thought that she might turn into some kind of grudgeful ghost if she died.

Even Yue was trembling a little while hugging Hajimes arm tightly.

But, apparently Yues gesture was enough to make the female knight return to her senses. It was something impossible in the past. The mad step-sister (self-proclaimed) in the past couldnt be stopped when her pathos toward Shizuku-oneesama overflowed until Commander Kuzeri landed a Heart Break Shot on her and physically caused an arrhythmia, but unbelievably!

M-my deepest apologies! For me to mix personal matter while still in the middle of duty like this! Please accept my heartfelt apologies!

Eh, what, scary-

Was there ever a time before this when they felt this scared by a mere act of common sense? The female knight before their eyes only looked like a psychopath now.

Hajime and Yue unconsciously hugged each other strongly.

To make the demon G.o.d and his first wife scared s.h.i.tless like this, it was a spectacular achievement world-wide in a sense, but the person herself kept acting laudably till the end.

She wiped her b.l.o.o.d.y tears with handkerchief, bowed her head properly to apologize, and then she stared leading the way once more.

I heard from her majesty that Onee-sama got married. At that time I thought

Shes starting speaking for some reason

Shh, Hajime. Dont provoke her. We dont know if theres anylandmine.

Hajime and Yue nestled close to each other while whispering to each others ear. From the outside they must looked like very intimate.

The matter of the marriage and that Yue could manipulate the age of her physical appearance had been spread within the palace through Liliana, so although the servants that they sometimes pa.s.sed by would look at surprise or charmed by Yues university student mode, they would still say congratulations with soft eyes and gave a bow.

Especially the female servants. Gazes filled with a kind of admiration or envy that seemed to say What a lovely couple could be felt from them.

That flattered the two, especially Yue, so for now she didnt choose to ignore the psychopath knight in front of them and teleport right to the queen to escape.

After all being congratulated for their marriage was a happy thing after all, as expected.

Though it felt like they would catch a cold from the difference in warmth of the surrounding people and the psychopath knight before them.

I cant stay as I am. I have to change no matter what! I cant live just for the sake of fulfilling my own desire! I have to once more remember the frame of mind as a knight, and the elegance and decorum of Lady Delaney of Wesper House of Viscounty. I will become a human worthy to serve at Onee-samas side-

O-oo, do your best~

A-amazii~~ng

Perhaps because they were overwhelmed by a pressure that they couldnt really understand, Hajime and Yues extent of vocabulary was dying. They hesitantly gave a weak applause.

Inside they were thinking something like This fellow, she has that kind of name huh. Or rather, shes actually a n.o.ble lady huh but they kept their mouth shut as to not break the mood.

The psychopath (suspected) knight Delaney turned around abruptly.

Both Hajime and Yue reflexively took a fighting pose as though to say What!? You wanna have a go with us as expected-!?. This married couple were really in harmony.

That is why, Hajime-sama, and also madam. I ask the two of you to please evaluate me for the suitability of coming and going through the door in the future. And then, if by some chance I manage to measure up to your standard, please I ask you to tell Onee-sama about that.

Hajime and Yue looked to each other. It couldnt be helped that they thought the female knight still had a very long distance to go to reach that point based of her att.i.tude at the beginning. They even thought that what she was trying to do would be as ridiculous as expecting a mountain bandit to be sublimated into a wise sage.

But, she was a Soul Sister who would make the possible impossible (maybe) if it was for the sake of their Onee-sama. After all their driving force was their straightforward feeling that idolized their Onee-sama.

W-well, if its just evaluating you then, I guess?

Nn, nnu. If we can be sure that you wont scare out Shizuku then, well?

This was Shizuku who tolerated even Kouhai-chan who was the commander of Soul Sisters special attack unit regardless of all her complaints.

It was only this monster (casually an expert of dark element magic, and combined with her Sisters Soul made her looked like the most ominous) who scared out Shizuku among all the Soul Sisters, so she was kept at a distance, but if she just got cleared of that, she was the same like Kouhai-chan and others in essence.

Then certainly there might still be a chance for herHajime and Yue nodded while looking troubled.

Those words from the demon G.o.d-sama and the first wife-sama who were the greatest obstacle in a sense made the expression of the self-proclaimed step-sister knight to light up radiantly.

My deepest grat.i.tude to both of you-!!

Only G.o.d knew whether she would really be able to learn self-restraint.

There would be nothing better if a monster could return back to being a human by her own effort. That was what Hajime and Yue thought while staring at the back of the female knight whose footsteps seemed to bounce energetically. The two let out a relieved sigh.

And then they arrived at a room inside the palace in no time at all.

Two different female knights standing at both sides of the door gave the most respectful bow toward Hajime and Yue when they saw them. They showed a somewhat relieved look.

These two must also be the royal guards for the queen. It seemed they were relieved seeing the problem child managed to carry out her task without problem. They didnt say anything because of their professionalism but, similar to the servants they pa.s.sed by on the way here, after a second the two female knights put on soft smiles that conveyed their blessing for Hajime and Yues marriage.

Your majesty, I have arrived with Hajime-sama and Yue-sama!

The door was opened from inside. It must be the doing of the royal guard who was standing guard inside the room.

It vaguely felt that the security had gotten a bit more stricter compared to before butmost likely, this was done in consideration of the risk that could possibly happen from the transition period of the new era that Liliana had also mentioned before.

Although, suicidal person who wanted to harm the queen who was a family of the demon G.o.d might not existed at all.

It has been a long time, Hajime-dono, Yue-sama.

Long time no see, Luluaria-san.

Nn. Long time no see.

The office had gotten twice bigger compared to before. At the back of the room there was a large desk that was also twice bigger than before. Queen Luluarias smile could be seen from between the interval of the mountain range of paperwork and she stood up.

The same like how they treated other families, Hajime and Yue spoke with polite language not because she was a queen but because she was Lilianas mother. They werent standing on formality anymore toward her, but acting familiarly just like when they were interacting with the families of Kaori and others.

The two werent using polite language when interacting with a parent of their family only when dealing with someone like Karm who was a problem father.

By the way, about what Hajime witnessed at the underground railway during his date with Liliana the other day, after doing interrogation by tying them on an electric chair, sure enough, they confessed that they were slipping into the underground railway here and there.

Though at least they werent trying run rampant while ignoring bosss order, but they were doing investigation just in case because they sensed some kind of disquieting presence.

You guys really arent trying to make a hidden base right? Hajime interrogated. Karm answered no with a very clear eyes without averting away his gaze at the slightest. It was suspicious instead.

But, there was no proof so Hajime let them go after giving only a warning. For some reason Hajime couldnt help but feel that the way they were running rampant was getting more ingenious as more time pa.s.sed. It felt dissatisfying.

Getting back on topic.

Luluaria went out of her way to walk around her desk and gave them a welcoming handshake. Then she tilted her head.

My, Hajime-dono. Shouldnt you call me Okaa-san(mother-in-law)there?

Aa~, no, thats

I also dont mind if you call me Haha-ue.

Should I say that Im not used using that wordno, if Im going to call you, then I guess using that word will suit you the best

Hajime scratched his cheek with a troubled look. Actually he had reached an understanding with the parents of other families that he would call them by their name. To Hajime, he had too many in-laws that it made the matter of how he called them very complicated.

Those like Kaoruko or Kirino looked slightly disappointed because they wanted Hajime to call them Okaa-san, but it seemed that Luluaria was also the same.

Luluaria teased Hajime while exuding a faint hint of disappointment.

Hajime, how about you call her like that when theres no other family?

Yue who considered Luluarias feeling took Hajimes hand and ma.s.saged it while making a suggestion. She too was a bit teasing and exuding the atmosphere like she was looking at someone cute.

The height of Yue in her university student mode was around Hajimes shoulder. Her face was far closer to his compared to when she was in her original size. The suggestion that was said while her eyes that were like ruby were staring at him from so close was already like a matter that had to be made true no matter the difficulty for Hajime.

Seen from the outside it was like Hajime and Yue suddenly started staring at each other from point-blank, and then they also suddenly started exuding sweet atmosphere (the two in question themselves werent self-aware). Luluaria went Oh myy and smiled warmly seeing the two of them like that.

The problem child(Delaney) was standing guard beside the door with a serious face. Meanwhile the female royal guard who opened the doormost likely a senior royal guardwas in the middle of closely observing her junior with a side glance, but she was taken aback by the suddenly flowing sweet mood and turned her gaze toward the couple. Her face reddened slightly.

Only the Soul Sister in question was paying no regard to that happening, because she was a Soul Sister. What an unwavering fellow.

Cough. Then, allow me to call you Haha-ue. Its difficult to quickly familiarize myself like that, so Ill be practicing.

Fufufu, Im looking forward to the day I get called like that.

Luluaria-sama looked very happy. In contrast Hajime just looked awkward.

It was no wonder. With how Hajime was treating the treasured daughter of Luluaria who was looking this happy from getting called mother,

Umm, once again Im very sorry. For forgetting to tell Lily about the marriage registration talk.

He forgot to tell Liliana about the important talk. It was a blunder that normally it would only be natural for him to get scolded How extremely rude of you!.

It was extremely discourteous of me that time to only explain the situation through phone.

I deeply apologize too.

Yue spoke Hajime, take that out with a small voice. Hajime nodded and made his treasure warehouse shined. Two wrapped boxes were materialized and Hajime and Yue held one each.

Here, its a souvenir that is also for apology.

There is Okaa-samas new work, and also an a.s.sortment of our recommendation.

Eh, Sumires new work? That means

Yes, its an a.s.sortment of shoujo manga.

Everything is forgiven!

An instant forgiveness came out from the queen. Her expression was sparkling.

After Liliana had visited earth several times, she brought back Sumire-senseis works as souvenir. Luluaria got completely charmed by them and became a fan.

Similar with her daughter, it seemed that she had gotten completely addicted to the genre of shoujo manga, so she was extremely pleased by the present that couldnt be obtained in Tortus.

The two manga boxes that were an armful each were displaying more than sufficient might as an apology.

When she looked toward the two royal guards with sparkling eyes over her shoulder, they understood her command and happily took the boxes from Hajime and Yue.

Y-your majesty, perhaps after your enjoyment

You dont need to finish that sentence. Of course, they will be stored in the library. Everyone can peruse them as they please.

A thousand thanks-

It seemed the royal guards were also getting sucked into the swamp of Sumire-senseis works, and also shoujo manga in general. Even Delaneys eyes were sparkling.

Luluaria watched her two knights happily carrying the boxes to the adjacent room while lightly waving her hand to point at a corner of the room.

It must be the s.p.a.ce to receive guest. There was a soft looking leather sofa there along with a table that had magnificent legs and edges design.

Hajime and Yue sat side by side while Luluaria sat down at the opposite side.

Luluaria then clapped her hands lightly and the door of the adjacent room opened. A maid came in while pushing a cart. It seemed that tea had been prepared for them.

A mellow aroma drifted from the black tea. Two cups filled with the tea were placed in front of Hajime and Yue.

Luluaria urged them with her gaze and the two took a sip. Delicious The two said and looked at each other with a smile.

Please allow me to give the two of you some words of blessing first. Hajime-dono, Yue-sama. Representing my country, I offer the two of you my heartfelt wish of good luck for your official marriage.

Thank you very much.

There was familiarity between them as family, even so as expected she was still a queen of a country. It felt really itchy to be congratulated once more like that. Hajime and Yue both showed slightly embarra.s.sed faces. Of course, it was while they were looking at each other.

It seemed that Luluaria couldnt hold back seeing the intimacy that filled the twos every single gesture and let a chuckle slipped out.

Before this I reflexively spoke out words like forgive but, I hadnt particularly taken any offense from the two of you. Its already a common knowledge over here that my daughter and Hajime-dono are effectively married, and Ive also heard how the marriage system in Hajime-donos birthplace is monogamy.

Is that sothats good then. No, its still not good.

Nn. Not good. As the one who is being recognized as the first wife, it was truly a blunder that Im extremely regretting.

But theres the fact that everyone was extremely busy over there, and theres also how my daughter didnt choose to move and live there, so please dont feel that guilty. We have received enough proof of your grat.i.tude and sincerity to this day.

Luluaria laughed melodiously. But then, her expression completely changed.

Although, as a royalty, I wish to ask Hajime-dono to allow this country to hold a formal marriage ceremony one day. Okay?

Like that she determinedly conveyed her demand as a ruler, so Hajime and Yue sighed in relieve inside their heart while also nodding with a wry smile. They had no choice. Certainly the people of Heiligh Kingdom, no, the whole Tortus must also wished to see Princess Lilianas marriage ceremony. It would also serve as an effective political event.

But putting that aside, its me who is feeling apologetic instead as that girls mother

Eh? Why?

Even though the two of you had been effectively married with each other even before, there is no denying that this matter this time a critical juncture correct? With that, havent the two of you feel it even more keenly in your mind that were husband and wife after going through it?

Nn. I thought that it was just a mere formality of reporting marriage but, it impressed our relationship into my mind even more than I expected. As though the stage of my level of happiness has gone up?

Yue-san placed her hand on Hajimes thigh and caressed it lovingly. Perhaps, she was doing it unconsciously.

Fufu, indeed it is. After all this thing we call milestone is important in everything.

Cough. And, what do you mean by apologetic?

Hajime placed his hand on Yues hand and stopped it from caressingbecause Luluaria-san was watching!and urged the conversation to continue.

Luluaria spoke about her sentiment toward her daughter with an expression that looked like she was enduring a headache.

During that time of good milestone, I was holding expectation that perhaps that girl would start broaching the matter of wanting to move.

Aa~, but she didnt say anything in the end.

Nn. I can picture it. After all shes energetically making reports everyday even over there.

Right? The ease of travelling between worlds has also been improved, and so I myself took the initiative to confirm with that daughter of mine whether she has any intention to move butreally that girl

It seemed Luluaria reflexively looked up to the sky when she was met by her daughters puzzled face as though she didnt get it all why her mother asked her about such thing.

Liliana had shouldered more than enough hardship and heavy responsibility that didnt suit a girl of her age until now. Even if the transition period of the new era was coming, now that the restoration of the capital was over, it was a good timing for Liliana to withdraw from the national government.

Certainly, there will be a lot of trouble if that girl is gone. However, there isnt any more thing that wont be able to keep going if that girl isnt here.

Luluaria had also told her daughter that. She also persuaded that it would be better for her to have a proper married life with Hajime before her fell out of love with her.

The respond was a lighthearted smile that was full of confidence. If its Hajime-san, h.e.l.l support what I ought to do with his all so its fine! We are mutually in love you know!She said.

Luluaria placed her hand on her cheek worriedly.

Hajime-dono. What do you think? Do you want to try to kidnap a countrys princess as befitting someone who is called the demon king here?

I dont want to get hated by that princess. Or rather, thats not a line that a queen should say.

The plan of conceiving children has also reached my ear. How about doing the same to her forcefully at the same timing with Yue-san and others

Thats also not a line that a mother should say though!?

Because, after watching that girls working ethicit gives me a vague feeling of anxiety. That perhaps, this concern I have been harboring ever since before is coming into reality? I fear that at this rate she will turn her works for the purpose of her life for real and become a child who make light of married life.

Youre soft with your daughter, so I think its possible that kind of future will also be waiting for you, Luluaria said with a gaze that was just slightly reproachful. That gaze stabbed into Hajimes heart.

Even if you say something like thatHajime said while looking like he didnt know what else to say.

In exchange, this was the turn of the first wife to shine! Yue leaned her body forward, while putting strength into both her hands in high spirits.

Please dont worry about Lily. This me will properly look after her.

Yue-sama

Lilys feeling of patriotism is strong, so shes unable to avert her attention from now when the transition period is coming, thats all. But, its also an undeniable fact that she loves Hajime and us. Several years from now, I dont think that she will stay a workaholic to a degree where she abandon her personal life, there is no way.

That, is true. There is also the matter of conceiving childrenyes, for her to be a.s.saulted by withdrawal symptoms because of quitting her official duties as a royalty, finding a replacement and getting addicted to it, and because of that she found herself with a world-wide level of influence before she realized it and missed her chance to get away from all of it, surely that kind of thing is impossible to happen!

Yes! Theres no way that kind of thing can possibly happen! As expected! I will protect the bright family plan of Nagumo family.

Aa, Yue-sama. Im glad that its you who are the first wife. Please, I ask you to take a good care of my daughter from here on too.

Nn! Leave it to me!

Yue and Luluaria shook hands firmly in understanding.

Hajime thoughtEeh? I wonder why. It feels like therere flags that got raised just now.

n.o.body here thought that unbelievably, Luluarias concerns would be turned into reality at earth several years later. Perhaps it was just as to be expected from a mother in a sense. She understood her daughter really well.

Now then, it has really been a long time so, I wish to be able to talk with the two of you leisurely if possible but, itll be inexcusable of me to get in the way of the long-awaited date of the two of you here.

It must be because she had achieved her minimum objectives of congratulating the two and speaking of her concern about her daughter.

Luluaria squinted her eyes at how Hajime and the grown-up looking Yue snuggling with each other while wearing what looked like a pair look. She quickly finished the conversation.

Hajime and Yue gratefully accepted her consideration. They stood together with Luluaria.

By the way, where will you two go today? If youre going to explore the new capital, I can also make various arrangements for the two of you.

Thank you very much for the thoughtfulness. But its fine. Our destination is

Yue embraced hajimes arm while looking up.

Hajime responded to that with a gentle gaze. He caressed Yues head with a gentle movement like he was treating a fragile gla.s.swork so that he wouldnt mess up her hair style while replying.

Were thinking to make our way to Yues birthplace.

Luluarias eyes widened. She had naturally studied history as a royalty so she immediately understood.

Yues birthplace, which meant, the location where the vampire country once existed. In this current era, it was the great marshland that stretched through the whole western region of the continents southernmost area, a secluded region where no race had expanded their sphere of life into.

What a very distant locationaa, no, I just recalled that distance doesnt matter at all for the two of you. I pray that the two of you can spend a nice holiday.

Thank you very much.

I hope to have another tea party together after we return from the trip. How about we hold it at earth next time?

My, Yue-sama! That is a lovely proposition! I too have been constantly wanting to go over there.

Aa, my mother has also been grumbling I wanna to have a date with Lulu. Gotta have her even more hooked into the swamp of the subculture, so that will be a great opportunity.

Sumire did? Fufu, to wish for a date like that, geezbut, that too is a wonderful suggestion. Then, I too shall have to work hard in my task so that Ill be able to secure the time for holiday.

In a sense, this queen was even stricter to herself than Liliana. For her who hadnt been able to obtain a genuinely equal friend until now, Sumires existence seemed to be like a treasure for her.

Looking at the way she clasped both her hands in front of her chest, her blushing cheeks, and her sparkling smile that looked like a young girl, the word date certainly might be suitable.

It was then. Hajime and Yue noticed something and turned their gaze toward outside the room, and then further ahead as though they were looking at the corridor.

Their expressions were both showing a slight amount of surprise.

There wasnt really any sign of alarm, rather everyone seemed to be relaxed. Even so the distance that they sensed the multiple familiar presences was surprisingly close.

? Is something the matter?

Luluaria tilted her head with a puzzled look. Right after that, the royal guard standing by outside the room notified them that there was guest coming.

The visitors matched the presences they sensed, so Hajime and Yue decided that they must be coming to give greeting and waited for a bit.

They must be coming in a hurry. The approaching people arrived in less than thirty seconds.

After the door was knocked, a voice of the visitor spoke out.

Luluaria-sama. This is h.e.l.lina. I sensed the visit of my lorHajime-sama and madam, so I hurriedly rush here to give my greeting.

I-I see. Very well, come in.

Excuse me.

Luluaria looked slightly bewildered. A part of it was because the head maid who should be taking a day off was visiting, but most of it was because she heard concerning words, like sensed or my lor.

Although, this was the head maid which was the most trusted person among all the servants. Luluaria exchanged gaze with Hajime and Yue to see if they had any objection before immediately giving the permission to enter.

h.e.l.lina-san entered inside gracefully. She was a beauty with crisp appearance as usual.

And, she was wearing her usual maid uniforma cla.s.sic maid outfit.

Werent you in the middle of holiday? The thought crossed Luluarias mind but she didnt speak it out. Or rather, she couldnt.

Because, even greater question and surprise had blown violently inside Luluarias heart.

Hajime-sama, madam. Long time no see. My deepest apologies for not being there to welcome your arrival.

O-ou. Thats fine

Nn, umm, errh.e.l.lina. The people behind you

Yes, madam. I was in the middle of my holiday, so I held a girls-only gathering with my friends. They are not strangers with the two of you, so they accompany me here to give their greeting too. After all this is your first visit here since your official marriage.

h.e.l.lina-san smiled sweetly to convey her congratulations along with performing an enchanting curtsy.

Behind her, her friendsthe empires imperial princess Tracy, Heiligh Kingdoms knight commander Kuzeri, the granddaughter of Motto who was the head of the company that was on the best term with South Cloud Company, Samaire, the little sister of temple knight David who was a G.o.ddess(Aiko) fanatic, Sister Flim, and then the dragon race woman who was like Tios second mother Venri-sanwho she said were doing girls-only gathering with her also performed curtsy altogether.

Their movements were perfectly ordered and polished as though they had been training in it. Perhaps that was also why their presences were all weak.

Congratulations for your marriage

Yeah, thanks for coming all the way here just to say that.

Judging only from appearance, Hajime looked brazen when he said his thanks.

But, however, his focus was completely somewhere else.

The queen who hadnt been notified of anything at all was looking his way with a queen smile on her lips!

The first wife-sama who had mostly guessed everything but hadnt received any direct explanation was also looking his way with a lovely reproachful stare!

It was like he was put between a rock and a hard place.

It couldnt be helped. Because, all of them were wearing maid uniform. Not only all the members were females of high standing, they all were wearing maid uniform.

The royal guards who returned from the adjacent roomespecially Delaney said things like Eh? Commander, whatre you doing during holiday? Mental derangement? Has you finally gone crazy? when they saw the appearance of their knight commander. *Snap* Blood vein pulsed on Kuzeris forehead even while she kept her head bowed reverently.

Putting aside such exchange.

It wasnt like this was anything for Hajime to feel guilty about. And from the start he had originally made a prior arrangement with h.e.l.lina to talk with only the queen and Yue when a nice opportunity presented itself, so this day when Liliana was currently away was certainly the best timing that fulfilled the conditions that he had set up beforehand.

Although, still.

Hajime-dono. If you dont mind, how about having one more cup of this delicious tea?

Hajime, I think its a lovely proposition. Lets have one more cup? Accompanied with the delightful talk about maid lover Hajime.

The smiling Yue linked her arms with his. Strongly as though to say that he wouldnt get away.

Hajime thought.

Yosh, lets get a bit fired up and choose my words carefully!

It seemed there was a battle waiting before they could go to a fun picnic.

.

.

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AN: Thank you very much for reading this every time.

Thank you very much too for the thoughts, opinions, and reports about misspelling and omitted words.

The story hasnt even reached the picnic despite going over ten thousand words. I have excuse. I think there are also some who have guessed but, Tortus wont get included in the other worlds trip arc. Because it has been done in Tortus Travel Journal. Although, entering other worlds trip arc without touching the current situation of Tortus characters at all is also, you knowand so I put it into Yues chapter. I also wanted to write Yue getting congratulated for her marriage. And so next chapter will beYues case too. Best regards!

Material introduction

Yues bending forward posture

From the famous pose of actress Nanao-san.

Boss! A girl from the sky!

From the movie [Laputa: Castle in the Sky]. Surely even Pazu wont want to catch this kind of girl.

Last night was fun wasnt it

From [Dragon Quest I].