♔亞緣腐宅窩♔

A Royal Story Event－Queen's Reign（Leo）

Prologue：

It was a bright, clear day, and a gentle breeze was blowing.
I was paying a visit to Robert's studio.
I sat quietly across from Robert, holding as still as I could.
Robert looked up from the canvas in front of him, and said gently,
Robert：Why don't we take a break?
Jily：No, I'm fine.
Robert：Then I'll keep going, Your Majesty.

（Ahh, damn. I was right. I can't stand you being so formal.）

Robert adjusted his grip on his brush as he turned back towards his canvas.
But before he could start painting again, I said,
Jily：Can we just go back to acting like we usually do?
Robert's eyes widened slightly, and then he laughed suddenly.
Robert：Are you sure? I just thought, if I treat you like the queen you are—
Robert：Well, I might be able to better capture that grace and dignity on my canvas.
Robert smiled cheerfully at me as he spoke.
But something about the way he phrased it just made me feel more embarrassed.

（I'm just still not used to being called 'Your Majesty' like that.）

It had been almost a year since I'd officially become the queen of Wysteria.
I had more responsibilities to bear, and a great many more things to worry about.
But I'd spent the last year with my king at my side, and I felt as if we'd had a fulfilling, enjoyable year together.
Robert：I never thought the day would come when I'd be painting a picture of you as the queen.
Robert：It makes me really happy.
Jily：I'm very happy that you're painting my picture too!
Robert：Are you looking forward to the ceremony? I am.
Jily：Yes, I am!
There was a particular reason Robert was painting my picture.
It was a picture that would be put up to celebrate the first anniversary of our coronation.
Robert smiled as he gazed down at the canvas in front of him.
Robert：That reminds me, there's some sort of custom associated with the ceremony, isn't there?
Jily：Oh, yes. I was told that it's about wishing for happiness and prosperity for the whole nation, but—
Jily：I still haven't really heard what exactly the custom itself is.

（I wonder what we'll be expected to do?）

As I sat there thinking, there was a sudden knock at the door.
Robert：Come in.
Robert and I turned to look as the door to the studio opened...

◆ Select a Suitor ◆
Who will you choose?
Choose and your story will start.

＞＞＞Choose Leo

Leo, Chapter 1：

The door opened and Leo stepped into Robert's studio.
Leo：It's almost time for us to talk with Giles, so I came to get you.

（Oh wow, is it that time already?）

We were scheduled to discuss the upcoming ceremony with Giles that afternoon.
He would be giving us more details about the ceremony program, and about the custom.

（I don't think Robert's finished the painting yet, but—）

I turned to look at Robert, and he smiled as he put down his brush.
Robert：All that's left is the finishing touches, so you're fine to go.
Jily：Thank you! And sorry for rushing off.
Leo：It's a great painting.
Leo：It really captures Jily's kindness.
Leo had wandered closer to Robert while we were talking.
He peered down at the canvas, a bright smile on his face.
Leo：Naturally that's a testament to your talents, Robert.
Leo：But it's also because you have such a great model to paint.
Jily：Geez, Leo.
His tone was teasing, and I couldn't decide quite how to react, but then Robert nodded.
Robert：You may be right.
Jily：Not you too, Robert!

（Ahh, but somehow this is really fun.）

There was a relaxed, gentle vibe to the moment, and I found myself smiling.
Leo：Sorry, sorry. C'mon, let's go.
Jily：Okay.
Leo offered me his hand, and I stood up from my chair, placing my hand in his.
We said goodbye to Robert and left the studio behind us.
I was filled with hope and excitement for the ceremony as we headed towards the study.
Jily：This is a chance to show our gratitude to all the people who support us, isn't it?
Jily：I hope the ceremony goes well.
Leo：So do I.
Leo smiled at me, nodding in agreement.
The light in his eyes was as gentle as it had been when we'd first fallen in love.

（I can't believe it's been a year since we got married.）

I looked up at Leo, studying him, and he chuckled as he met my gaze.
Leo：Are you thinking about something?
Jily：Yes. I just can't really believe it's been a year since our coronation.
Leo：And a year since we got married, right? It's certainly been quick.

（That's right—it's the first anniversary of both our coronation and our marriage.）

I glanced down at the ring I wore on my left ring finger.

（I can remember the happiness I felt when Leo gave me this as if it was just yesterday.）

The ring glistened as brightly as the day I'd received it.
I smiled to myself as I thought back on all the happy times we'd spent together.
Jily：I always have so much fun when I'm with you, and that seems to make the time go by so much faster.
I glanced up at Leo again as I spoke.
His eyes widened slightly in surprise at my words.
Then suddenly he leaned towards me.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

I glanced up at Leo, and suddenly he leaned towards me.
A moment later his lips touched mine in a feather-light kiss.
I caught my breath, stunned by the simple sweetness.
Jily：Leo—we're in public—
I glanced around quickly, my cheeks flushing.

（If someone were to see us—）

Leo laughed happily, completely at odds with my flustered reaction.
Leo：I couldn't help it—what you said was so sweet.
Leo：Besides, I don't think anyone is gonna mind.
Jily：Oh really?
Leo：There's nothing weird about the king and queen being so close, is there?
There was mischief in his gaze, and my heart skipped a beat.
I could still feel the lingering warmth of his kiss on my lips.
Happiness spread through me at the meaning of his words.

（Ahh, I always feel so happy when I'm with you, Leo.）

We smiled at each other as we turned to head towards the study again.
Leo and I sat together in the study, listening to Giles explain about the ceremony in detail.
Giles：Now, about this custom.
Giles：Basically, the king is to gift the queen with a tiara.
Jily：A tiara?
Giles：Yes. The tiara is a piece of jewelry that symbolizes an eternal promise.
Giles smiled cheerfully as he continued to explain.
Giles：This is seen as a special ritual.
Giles：The gift shows that the love you swore at your wedding will never change.
Jily：I see.

（The love we swore at our wedding, huh?）

Leo：I swear that I will make you happy your whole life long.
Leo：I love you.
Jily：I love you too.

（So this custom is to show that our feelings from then really are eternal.）

My love for Leo as my husband had been a part of me for the entire past year.
It was more important to me than anything, and I knew I'd never let go of it.

（It's wonderful to be able to swear that all over again like this.）

I'd already thought the ceremony was something special, but I now I felt that even more.
But right at that moment—
Giles：However—
Giles's tone of voice changed completely, his expression clouding as he went on.
Giles：In regards to the actual tiara itself...

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Giles：In regards to the actual tiara itself...
Leo seemed to notice Giles's hesitation, and he asked anxiously,
Leo：Is there a problem?
Giles：Yes. There is a jeweler who has been making tiaras for the royal family for generations.
Giles：However, he says that he won't make the tiara unless the king and queen visit his store personally.

（Wow, really?）

Giles：He's an amicable old man, and he's never done anything like this before.
Giles：I'm not sure what the problem is.
Leo listened silently as Giles explained, his expression thoughtful.
At last he spoke in a calm voice.
Leo：Have you figured out why he's making such a demand?
Giles：He won't tell us a thing. And we've been so busy preparing, and there's only two weeks until the ceremony—
Giles：Some of the bureaucrats are suggesting we use a different jeweler.
Giles frowned again, looking back and forth between Leo and I.
Giles：I am inclined to agree with them, but—what would you like to do?

（When thinking about all that needs to be done for the ceremony, I think you might be right.）

Yet in spite of that, something just didn't feel right to me.

（If possible, I'd like a little more time to think it over.）

I hesitated, and as I did, my eyes met Leo's.
Leo：Can we think about it for a bit?

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo：Can we think about it for a bit?

（Leo—）

It was as if he were speaking my mind, and I caught my breath.
Giles：Yes. However, we can only wait a few more days.
Giles：It will still take time for the tiara to be crafted.
Leo：Understood.
Giles：Very well, let's put this discussion on hold for the moment, and return to the details of the ceremony.
Jily：Yes, thank you.
Giles took Leo and I to the place where the ceremony would be held.
Once there, we went through the ceremony program again.
Giles：Has my explanation thus far been clear to you?
Leo：Yes, it's fine.
Jily：Yes, me too.
But even as I listened to Giles's explanation, I couldn't stop thinking about the tiara.

（That jeweler has been making the tiaras for generations.）
（—well, there must be a reason.）　　*原文: 't—well, there must be a reason.)

I understood why the bureaucrats wanted to use another jeweler.
But it didn't seem right to me to do that without first knowing why.

（We can't leave it like this. We need to go and ask him.）

Giles：And here you will bow and curtsey to the audience. Do you have any questions?

（Eek!）

Giles's question brought me back to myself with a start.
Jily：No, I'm fine!

（Right now I need to focus on what Giles is saying.）

I quickly tried to pull together my scattered thoughts, but as I did so—
Leo：I'm a bit tired. Could we take a short break?
Leo smiled brightly as he made the suggestion.
Giles：You're right, it's about time for a break.
Giles：I will come back in a little while, so please rest while I'm gone.
Giles inclined his head and walked out of the room.
As soon as he left, Leo turned to look at me.
Leo：You can't stop thinking about it, right?

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo turned suddenly to look at me.
Leo：You can't stop thinking about it, right?
I caught my breath at his question.
I didn't know what to say, so I simply nodded.
Leo's expression relaxed into a gentle smile.
Leo：I thought so.

（You always seem to see right through me, Leo.）

Leo always gave me his kindness so freely, without hesitation, and it warmed my heart.
Jily：I just keep thinking, there must be a reason why he says he won't make it.
Jily：I think we should go and see the jeweler and ask him why.
I looked up as I spoke, meeting Leo's gaze directly.
Jily：I don't want to use another jeweler when we don't even know what the problem is.
Jily：What do you think, Leo?
Leo had been listening quietly as I spoke, but at my question he smiled.
He leaned a little closer and said,
Leo：I thought you'd say that.

Leo, Chapter 2：

Leo：I thought you'd say that.
Jily：You did?
I blinked up at Leo in surprise.
Leo：I know you—I didn't think you'd want to just go ask some other jeweler.
There was a gentleness to his smile that eased the tension that had been building up inside me.
Jily：Are you sure you can't read my thoughts, Leo?
Leo：No, I just know everything there is to know about you.
I could clearly hear the teasing tone in his voice, and I giggled.
We laughed together for a moment, and then Leo's gaze turned serious.
Leo：I'll persuade Giles and the bureaucrats, so let's go hear what that jeweler has to say, okay?
Leo seemed so strong and reliable, and I gazed up at him in wonder.
Just looking at his sure expression seemed to wash away all my gloom and uncertainty.
Jily：Thanks, Leo.
My words were heartfelt, and Leo grinned again.
Leo：Not at all. I'm just supporting you the way you supported me, with Lord Aubin.

（Oh!）

〝Jily：I don't want you to have to kill anyone.〞
〝Leo：If I stop now, I don't know what to live for anymore.〞
〝Jily：What if it was for me? What if I want you to live for me?〞

（I'll never forget that moment.）

Leo had been so angry and so confused as he faced the man who'd ruined his whole life.
But someone I'd been able to get through to him.
Leo：It'll be okay. I'm here with you, so don't worry.
Jily：Thanks.

（You're always here, supporting me and giving me that extra push I need to get things done.）

His gentle smile seemed to fill me up with warmth inside.
Relief flooded through me as I nodded to him.

＊＊＊

The next day—

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

The next day, Leo and I got ready to go and visit the jeweler.

（I wonder what he's like. What if he's a really grumpy old guy?）

The more I thought about it, the more nervous I got.
I paused in the act of adjusting my skirts, my gaze lowered, but then Leo said,
Leo：Are you ready?
Jily：Oh! Yes.

（There's no point worrying about it now.）
（I just have to keep it together and try not to do anything to annoy him.）

I pulled myself together, fussing over the skirts of my pale yellow dress one last time before turning to Leo.
Leo looked me over, and then smiled suddenly.
Leo：The bow of your ribbon is wrong.

（Oh!）

I turned to look at myself in the mirror again.
Leo was right—I'd tied the bow of my ribbon wrong in my haste and it had turned sideways.
Jily：Thanks, Leo.
I reached up and began to loosen it again when suddenly—
Leo：Here, let me.
I hadn't even noticed Leo approaching, but suddenly he was right there, his fingers unlacing the ribbon.
His hands brushed against my breasts, and my heart skipped a beat.

（Ahh, I'll never get used to your touch—it still excites me every time.）

I blushed a little as I watched Leo retie my ribbon for me.
Leo：Huh? This is harder than I thought.
Leo frowned over the ribbon for a moment.
Then his expression brightened a little, as if he'd thought of something.
Leo：It might be easier if I do it this way.

（What?）

Leo placed a gentle hand on my shoulder, turning me to face away from him.
He wrapped his arms around me from behind, his body pressed right up against mine.
He held me like that as he began to retie the ribbon for me.

（Gah—when you're this close I lose all sense and reason.）

The warmth of his body pressed right up against mine set my heart racing.
Leo had no further troubles with the ribbon, and soon it was tied in a neat bow.
Leo：There, all done.
I could hear the amusement in his voice as he spoke.
But instead of letting go, hugged me tighter.
Jily：Leo—

（Hang on a minute—）

Jily：You could've tied that just fine from the front, couldn't you?
I glanced over my shoulder doubtfully, only to find him grinning at me.
Leo：Yep.
Jily：Geez, Leo.
I couldn't help but laugh at his sweet silliness.
He smiled back at me, placing both hands on my shoulders and turning me towards him.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo smiled back at me, placing both hands on my shoulders and turning me towards him.
Leo：But look.
Leo：You're smiling again.

（Oh!）

I caught my breath with sudden realization at his words.

（Did you do that on purpose because you realized how nervous I was?）

Happiness spread through me as I realized why he'd done it.
At the same time, I remembered how just the day before he'd said he knew everything about me.
Jily：You're right.

（You just keep reminding me how glad I am to have you by my side.）

Leo smiled gently at me as he gazed into my eyes.
I gazed back at him, my heart fluttering with pleasure.

＊＊＊

Once we'd finished getting ready, we headed into town to visit the jeweler.
Jily：Hello?
I called out hesitantly as we stepped into the shop, and a small bell on the door jangled.
A kind-looking old man stepped out of the back room, adjusting his glasses absently.
Jeweler：Well, well.
Jeweler：Your Majesties. It's an honor to have you come all this way to see me.

（Goodness me.）

He was so much kinder and sweeter than I'd imagined, and I didn't know how to react.
Leo：He's not what I was expecting at all.
Jily：Me either.
Leo muttered the words to me, and I nodded briefly.
The old man kindly gestured for us to sit down in some nearby chairs.
He stepped closer and sat down across from us.
Jily：Um—we're here about the tiara.
Jeweler：Actually, the tiara is already ready.
Leo & Jily：What?!
Both Leo and I froze with complete shock at the jeweler's unexpected statement.
Jeweler：But the more I heard about your personalities, and the work you both do—
Jeweler：The more I wanted to imbue the tiara with the strength of your bond.
Leo：But how can you put our bond in the tiara like that?
The old man simply nodded, and left the room, returning soon with a tiara in his hands.
Jily：It's beautiful!
Its beauty was radiant, and I found myself captivated by the gorgeous, intricate details worked carefully into the design.

（But—）

There was a large hole in the middle of the tiara where a gemstone should have been fitted.
Jeweler：I will finish this tiara up with a single gemstone.
Jeweler：But I would like the two of you to choose it yourself and bring it to me.
Up until then, the old man's expression had been gentle and kind.
But now it turned serious as he went on.
Jeweler：The gemstone you choose will be the finishing touch on this tiara,
Jeweler：and I believe it will show the bond you share.
He finished speaking at last, and bowed deeply to the both of us.
Jeweler：Would you be willing to consider fulfilling this old man's request?
I gazed at him, clearly feeling the depth of his pride and the strength of his emotions.

（So that's why he wanted us to come and visit him personally.）

I turned to look at Leo, sitting quietly next to me.
There was a smile on his face as he met my gaze.
He nodded just once, and I could see the resolve in his eyes.

（Leo—you're thinking the same thing I am, aren't you?）

Knowing that gave me the courage I needed to speak.
I turned back to face the old man again.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

I turned back to face the old man again and said,
Jily：Very well.
Leo：We would be delighted to find the perfect gemstone for the tiara.
Jeweler：Your Majesties—
The old man smiled at us, his expression clearly relieved, and then he bowed again.
Jeweler：Thank you very much.
Leo：No, I think we should be thanking you.
Leo turned his gaze on me, and I nodded firmly.

（I never imagined that you would care so much about the ceremony and the tiara.）
（I want us to live up to all the effort you've put into this!）

The old man seemed so happy and friendly the entire time we were in the store.
His smiles had us both smiling as well, our hearts filled with warmth.

＊＊＊

We returned to the palace and explained the situation to Giles.
Giles：So that's what it was all about.
Giles：However, he has set you a difficult task.
Leo：I know. So we have a request.
Giles：Yes?
Leo glanced at me expectantly, and I went on.
Jily：Can we see the tiaras that have been worn by previous queens?
Leo and I had spent the whole trip back to the palace discussing how to choose the right gemstone.

（The jewelers have all clearly put so much effort and care into crafting those tiaras.）

Leo and I had decided that we needed to see what sort of tiaras they'd made in the past.
We felt certain it would give us something to go on.
Giles：Very well.

＊＊＊

Leo and I borrowed a key from Giles.
We made our way to the storeroom where all the past tiaras were kept.
In addition to the tiaras, there were many other works of art stored in the room.
In the midst of them all were the tiaras, lined up in chronological order.
They seemed to outshine everything else in the room.
Jily：They're taking such good care of them.
Leo：I guess that's because the tiaras for the first anniversary ceremony are special.

（They're all tiaras, and yet each has its own unique features.）

I gazed down at the tiaras in quiet awe.
I felt as if they conveyed to me who each of the past queens had been.
Leo was staring at the tiaras as well, when suddenly he spoke.
Leo：That reminds me. Did you know that each gemstone has a particular meaning?
Jily：What? Really?
My eyes widened in disbelief, and Leo smiled as he turned to face me.
Leo：Each gemstone symbolizes a specific concept or idea.
Jily：I had no idea.

（But if gemstones each have their own meaning—）

Jily：In that case, we should put a gemstone in the tiara that symbolizes happiness.
Leo nodded gently as soon as I spoke.
Leo：I agree. Something that says the future will be brighter.

（The future will be brighter—）

I turned my gaze back to the tiaras as I contemplated Leo's words.

（Oh!）

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

There were so many beautiful tiaras, but one in particular caught my gaze.
Jily：It's beautiful...
I murmured the words under my breath, and Leo came to stand next to me.
Leo：Which one?
Jily：This one, with the yellow gemstone.
I pointed to a tiara decorated with countless tiny diamonds set around a larger yellow gem in a teardrop shape.
Leo：Ahh, yes. That's topaz.
Leo：If I remember rightly, it's said that it will lead its owner to a favorable future.
（A favorable future, hmm?）
I thought about the gemstone's meaning, and what Leo had said about making the future brighter.
It seemed to fit together perfectly, ringing clear and true in my heart.
Jily：Leo, about the gemstone for our tiara—
Leo：Yes, I think topaz is a good choice too.
Jily：What?
I lifted my gaze with a start at his unexpected words.
He was smiling gently as he met my gaze.
Leo：I told you, didn't I? I know everything about you.
Leo：Besides, I think the idea of being led to a favorable future is perfect for us.
Leo：You said it yourself, just now—we should choose something that symbolizes happiness.
His reassuring words filled my heart with joy, and I smiled happily at him.
Jily：You're right. Thanks.
Leo and I stood there, smiling joyfully at each other.
In my mind I could see the tiara as it would be, beautiful, shining, and guiding us towards our future.

＊＊＊

The next day—
Leo and I visited the jeweler again, and gave him the topaz we'd chosen.
Leo：We would like you to put this gemstone in the tiara.
The jeweler carefully took the gem we handed to him.
He adjusted his glasses, studying first the gem and then us.
Jeweler：Do you mind if I ask you why you chose this particular gemstone?
The old man's gaze was softened by his glasses, yet I could see how serious it was.
I spoke earnestly, remembering my discussion with Leo the day before.
Jily：Because we believe it will guide us.
Leo：Topaz is a gemstone that is said to guide you to a favorable future.
Leo nodded at my words, and continued to explain.
Leo：We want to go in the favorable direction it leads us.
Leo：We want to make the future for this country brighter. That's why we chose it.
I could see the certainty in Leo's expression, and the strength of his resolve as king.
Jily：Will you make the tiara for us?
I felt an edge of nervousness as I asked the question.
The jeweler had been listening quietly, and at last he raised his gaze to meet mine.

You can proceed to the Premium Ending!

Continue your romance with your prince♪

Decision Time>>>

Select the Sweet Ending>>>

Leo, Chapter 3-Sweet Ending：

The jeweler raised his gaze to meet mine, and smiled brightly at me.
Jeweler：I will make the best tiara you've ever seen.
Jeweler：I will deliver it to you as soon as it's finished. Can you wait until then?

（Oh, thank goodness!）

Happiness flooded through me at his answer.
Leo：We certainly can. Thank you.
Jeweler：You're welcome.
Leo bowed deeply and I curtseyed before we said farewell to the jeweler.
Leo and I stepped out of the jeweler's store, walking hand in hand back to where our carriage was waiting.
Leo：Thank goodness for that. I'm sure the ceremony will go well now.
Jily：Me too.
I breathed another sigh of relief, all the tension leaving me.

（I'm so glad we lived up to his expectations.）
（This is all thanks to Leo.）

Jily：Leo, thank you.
Leo：Hmm?
Jily：You spoke so honestly and openly about how we feel.
Jily：I'm sure that's what got through to the jeweler.
I was filled with gratitude as I looked up at Leo.
Leo grinned cheerfully down at me, squeezing my hand.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo grinned cheerfully down at me, squeezing my hand.
Leo：It's only natural—we're a couple.
Leo：No matter what happens, I'm always on your side.

（Oh, Leo—）

His words seemed to echo in my heart.
Jily：I know.
I smiled up at him, squeezing his hand in return.

＊＊＊

The days seemed to pass by in a flash, and at last it was the morning of the ceremony.
I was wearing a lemon yellow dress, with a beautiful skirt that billowed out from the waist.
I stood in front of the mirror, fussing fretfully with how it sat on me.

（The tiara arrived safely yesterday.）
（Everything will be fine so long as I don't make any mistakes during the ceremony.）

I started to go through the ceremony plans in my head again, but I was interrupted by a knock at the door.
Leo：You look ready for anything.
Leo stepped into the room, dressed in his finest.

（Oh wow.）

His dignified look and his gentle smile set my heart racing, and I smiled back at him.
Jily：So do you.
Leo：Well, I gotta be. You're so beautiful, and I'll be standing right next to you.
Leo：I've got to do my best to live up to that.

（Ahhh, when you say it like that—）

His smooth words filled me with a mix of embarrassment and joy.
Leo crossed the room towards me, his expression changing as if he'd noticed something.
Jily：What is it?
Leo：Are you wearing new shoes?
Jily：Yes. I had them made specially for today.
I lifted my skirts a little so that I could show him my new shoes.
They had even higher heels than usual, and it made me feel a little closer to Leo somehow.
Jily：How did you know?
I smiled up at him, trying to hide the pounding of my heart.
He met my gaze, mischief lurking in his eyes.
Leo：That's easy.
Leo reached out, cupping my cheeks with his hands.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo：That's easy.
Leo reached out, cupping my cheeks with his hands, his breath warming my cheek as he murmured,
Leo：I feel closer to you than usual.

（Oh wow, Leo—）

He gazed deep into my eyes, and my heart set off at a mad gallop.
He leaned towards me, his lips about to brush against mine, when—

（Ahh!）

There was a knock at the door, and we both froze.
Maid：Your Majesties, it's almost time.
Leo：Okay, got it. We'll be there in a moment.
Leo raised his voice to speak to the maid, and we soon heard her footsteps walking away again.
Leo sighed softly into the silence that followed.
Leo：What a shame. Guess we'll finish this up later.
Leo：But are you less nervous now?

（Now that you mention it—）

I'd been fretting and nervous before Leo had walked into the room.
But all that had vanished and I felt calm and prepared.
Jily：I am.

（You're always helping me out like this, Leo.）

I smiled gratefully up at Leo, and he gave me a bright smile in return.
Leo：Let's go, Your Majesty.
Leo chuckled softly as he offered me his hand.
I laughed as well, placing my hand in his.
Jily：Of course, Your Majesty.

＊＊＊

Thanks to Leo's help, I headed towards the ceremony with a light heart.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo and I walked forwards together, surrounded by the applause of the many guests.
I could see a pedestal up ahead, on the dais.
Sitting on top of it was the tiara that the jeweler had crafted for us.

（I've experienced so much in this last year as queen.）
（But my feelings haven't changed at all from what they were a year ago.）

Determination filled me up inside as we reached the dais at last.
Leo bowed to the crowd, and I curtseyed, and then Leo picked up the tiara.
Leo：The gemstone gracing this tiara is a topaz.
Leo：It is said to guide its owners to a favorable future.
Leo's dignified voice echoed loudly through the room.
Leo：The two of us want to lead this country to a favorable future.
Leo：And, as I swore one year ago—
Leo：I swear again that Jily and I will govern this country for the rest of our lives.
Leo looked out over the gathered crowd one last time, and then turned towards me.
Leo：Jily.
Leo smiled softly at me as he placed the tiara reverently on my head.

（I want to do the same—I want to support you forever and always.）

I remembered the vows we'd sworn at our wedding, and I was filled with the same resolve I'd felt then.
I could feel the sure weight of the tiara on my head, and I smiled gently at Leo.

＊＊＊

At last the ceremony was finally over.
Leo and I hurried to get changed, and then headed straight for the jeweler's store in town.

（I feel bad that we weren't able to come and say thank you before today.）

All this time I'd wanted to thank him for the beautiful tiara.
But we'd been so busy getting ready for the ceremony that I hadn't even had time to send him a letter.
Leo：Ahh, there he is.
I looked up with a start, turning quickly.
The jeweler stepped out of the back room, walking slowly towards us.
Jeweler：Your Majesties, thank you for coming all this way.
Jily：Not at all. I'm so sorry it took us so long to come and thank you.
Leo：It's all thanks to you that we were able to fulfill the custom.
Both of us spoke from the heart, and the old man nodded slowly.
Then to my surprise, he looked up at us with a smile.
Jeweler：It was a wonderful ceremony.
Leo & Jily：What?

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Jeweler：It was a wonderful ceremony.
Leo & Jily：What?
My eyes were wide with surprise, and I was sure Leo's were the same.
Jeweler：Actually, I was able to watch the ceremony from afar.

（Wow, I had no idea.）

But in spite of my surprise, I was filled with joy at his unexpected words.
Leo：Thank you very much for coming to see us.
Leo smiled brightly, bowing to the jeweler, and I curtseyed as well.
The old man looked delighted as he bowed to us in return.
We spoke a little longer before we left the store behind us.
The carriage swayed underneath us as we traveled back to the palace.
Leo sat quietly beside me, until suddenly he gave a small laugh.
Leo：I never expected he'd come to watch the ceremony. I didn't even see him.
Jily：Me either.
I smiled ruefully, nodding in response.
My hands were resting in my lap, and Leo reached out and placed his hand over them.
Leo：I'm glad he got to see the ceremony, though.
There was a gentle edge to his voice, and I smiled up at him.
Jily：So am I.
I looked up into his deep red eyes, thinking back to all the days leading up to the ceremony.

（You really helped me out so much in the last few weeks.）

I felt almost overwhelmed with gratitude, my heart warm and full.
Jily：This whole thing made me realize something all over again. So long as I'm with you—
Jily：It doesn't matter what happens, I know we can overcome it.
The honest words tumbled naturally from my lips, and Leo gazed down at me, his eyes serious.
Leo：I'll always be with you, no matter what happens. We can overcome anything together.
I nodded firmly, gladdened by his response.

（I'll never forget these feelings. I'll never lose them.）
（I want us to be together forever, protecting Wysteria.）

My heart was filled again with the resolve I'd felt when I'd received the tiara.
Leo and I leaned closer, our lips coming together for a sweet, joyful kiss...

fin.

Select the Premium Ending>>>

Leo, Chapter 3-Premium Ending：

The jeweler looked at me, his gaze serious as he nodded firmly.
Jeweler：I would be honored to finish crafting it for you.

（Oh, thank goodness!）

Relief rushed through me at his response.
Jily：Thank you very much.
Leo bowed to the old man, and I curtseyed.
We said goodbye, and I turned towards the door to leave.

（Hang on—）

I'd thought Leo was beside me, but when I glanced back he was talking with the old man.

（What are they talking about?）

I turned to go back and join the conversation, but by then it seemed to already be over.
Leo smiled brightly at the old man.
Leo：I appreciate it.
Jily：Hmm?
They both seemed pleased, and I couldn't help but be curious at the look they exchanged.
But then Leo turned away and led me out of the store.
As we walked back to where the carriage was waiting, I asked Leo,
Jily：What did you just ask him for?
Leo：That's a good question.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Jily：What did you just ask him for?
Leo：That's a good question.
Leo frowned, looking faintly concerned, but then he gave me a mischievous grin.
Leo：That's something to look forward to on the day.
Leo：All I'll say now is that I promise it's something that'll make you happy.
Leo winked at me, and I couldn't help but smile at the look in his eyes.

（I wonder what it is?）
（But when you put it like that, I can't help but look forward to it!）

Jily：Okay.
There was no way I could guess what Leo had asked the old man.
But it made me glad to know that he was trying to make me happy.
I reached out and caught his hand, squeezing it tightly, excitement thrumming through me.

＊＊＊

After that time seemed to pass by in a flash, until suddenly it was the morning of the ceremony.
Leo：So should I change this part?
Jily：Yes, I think so.
We were doing a final check of the speech we planned to give at the ceremony.
But I couldn't help glancing at the door now and again, almost without realizing it.

（I don't know what to do. The ceremony starts at midday, but—）

It was the morning of the ceremony, but the tiara still hadn't been delivered.
I couldn't calm my nerves, and as I tried to focus on the speech again, I heard Leo laugh softly.
Leo：It'll be okay. I'm sure it'll be here in time.
Jily：It will, won't it? I just can't help worrying.

（You're right. It'll be okay.）

I'd just decided to believe him and wait calmly when there was a knock at the door.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

There was a knock at the door, and I called out for them to enter.
A maid stepped into the room, together with a young boy carrying a large box.
Maid：This is a delivery boy from the jeweler.
Boy：I'm sorry it's so late!
The boy bowed deeply, his whole manner apologetic, but Leo gave him a warm smile.
Leo：Not at all. Thank you for bringing it all this way.
Leo stood up and took the box from the boy, bringing it back to where I sat.
I slowly opened the box and peered inside.
Jily：It's so beautiful!
The topaz we'd given the old man had been fitted perfectly into the hole in the middle, and it shone brightly.
Other smaller topazes had been added to the design, making it even more spectacular than before.
Boy：I have a message from the jeweler.
Boy：He said that he hopes Your Majesties' future becomes even brighter still.

（Oh wow. What a lovely man.）

I could tell just from looking at the tiara that the old man had truly been thinking that when he crafted it.
Not only was the tiara beautiful, but I could clearly feel his kindness and compassion emanating from it.
Just gazing at it filled my heart with warmth, and I couldn't stop smiling.
Leo：Can you tell the jeweler that we'll visit him again soon?
Leo must have been feeling the same thing I was, and his smile was sweet and kind as he spoke.
Boy：Sure!
The boy nodded cheerfully, and then reached into his pocket and brought something out.
Boy：This is the other item that you requested.
He was holding a small bag, and he offered it to Leo.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo smiled brightly as he took the small bag from the boy.
Leo：Thanks so much.
Boy：You're welcome. Thank you again.
The boy bowed deeply to both of us, and then turned away.
The maid escorted him from the room, leaving Leo and I alone again.
Jily：Is that...?
Leo：Yes, it's the other thing I requested from the jeweler.
Leo opened the bag, taking something small out of it, and offered it to me.

（Oh my goodness!）

An elegant ring was sitting in the palm of his hand.
It was decorated with a scattering of tiny topazes, creating a beautiful pattern.

（I know you said it was something that would make me happy, but I never expected this!）

I was completely lost for words, and I stared at Leo as he took my hand.
Leo：After we talked about what topaz means, I found myself wanting to give you something.
Leo smiled at me, caressing my ring finger where I wore my wedding ring.
He gently slid the new ring onto my finger, nestling it up against my wedding ring.
Leo：Maybe this sounds a bit too grand, but—even when you're unsure, I'll always be here with you, guiding you.
Leo：That's what I was thinking when I asked him to make it for you.
Jily：Oh, Leo—
The bright topazes seemed to sparkle and shine, just as bright as my wedding ring.
I felt as if that brilliant light was filled with Leo's kindness and love.

（I never expected to receive something like this!）

My heart was so filled with happiness I felt sure it would burst.
Leo：And there's something I wanted to tell you, when I gave you that ring.
Jily：There is?
Leo stepped closer to me, his gaze turning serious.
Leo：Today is the day when we swear again the vows we swore a year ago.
Leo：So I want you to let me swear this again, to you.
My eyes widened in surprise as Leo leaned closer still.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo：So I want you to let me swear this again, to you.
My eyes widened in surprise as Leo leaned closer still, kissing me softly.
Leo：I want to make you happy your whole life long, and those feelings will never change.
Leo：I love you, Jily.
It was the same thing he'd said on the day of our wedding, and my heart soared with joy.
Leo：I know there will be all sorts of challenges in our future.
Leo：But I will always be on your side.

（You always know what to say to make me happy.）

Jily：Thank you.
I was so filled with joy that my voice shook a little as I spoke.

（I want to swear to you, too.）
（Just like you did back then.）

Leo：It'll be okay. I'm here with you, so don't worry.
Jily：It feels like you're always the one who's helping me out when I need it, but—
Jily：I'm always on your side, too. I'm here for you.
I smiled as brightly as I could, swearing the same thing to Leo that he'd sworn to me.
Leo's expression relaxed into a bright smile that seemed to light up his whole face.
Leo：Ahh, I have such a reliable wife.
His gentle smile warmed my heart, and filled me with fresh resolve.

（I want to live up to your feelings, and the feelings of the jeweler.）
（I'll do everything I can to make sure the ceremony is wonderful.）

＊＊＊

At last it was time for the ceremony.
We stood in the midst of the crowd as Leo picked up the tiara from the pedestal.
We turned to face each other, and Leo stepped towards me.
I felt the weight of the tiara on my head, and a moment later the crowd burst into applause.

（I never imagined I could become a queen that could receive blessings from so many people.）
（But I know that it's all because I have Leo by my side.）

People in the crowd began to cheer as Leo and I took each other's hands.
We turned to face the crowd watching us, and they quietened down.
Leo：We swear once again that we will do everything we can for the sake of our country—
Jily：And that we will join hands and support each other as we support all of you.
The words we spoke seemed to settle deep in my heart.

（As queen of this country, and as Leo's wife—）
（I want us to work together to help guide Wysteria to a better, brighter future.）

Warm applause filled the room, and I could see a bright smile on every face.
Leo and I glanced at each other, sharing a smile.

（The topaz we chose for the tiara, and the topazes on the ring Leo gave me—）
（I'm sure they'll guide us.）

Leo：Jily.
Leo spoke my name softly, his eyes wavering with emotion as he leaned closer.
I'd never felt happier in my life than in that moment, as he pressed a gentle kiss against my lips...

fin.

After Episode

Find out what happens afterwards in a sexy After Episode...

After you've held your one-year celebration with Leo, a special treat awaits.
An unforgettable anniversary night with him!
………
Leo：I want to get closer to you—I want to feel you.
My skin seemed to burn with desire where he touched me, as if he were filling me with everything he was feeling.
Leo：I don't think we're gonna get any sleep tonight.
Leo：I want to hold you in my arms all night long.
………
His fingers slide over your bare skin, and your whole body heats up...
Are you ready for your hottest night with him yet?