Silver Cats & Black Roses
Chapter 32 – The Consequences
A/N Tables are turned and most criminals got an immediate arrest, while our couples can have more time for themselves... 💜💙 (and Nozel asks Asta to dance with Noelle) The music in this chapter is Pachelbels canon. Not a waltz, but I love this music a lot 💘
Ao3 link
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Charlotte was stunned to see even more people entering the room. But at the same time, she was actually relieved, especially when the Wizard King announced the arrest. She glanced at Charmy, who was now hold by Rill. It was really an adorable image, even though she might needed some time before she could get used to them being a couple.
Not as much as Yami though, once he will realize it. Charlotte couldn’t help but giggle a bit while imagining his reaction.
She couldn’t help but look at the communication device in Charmys hand. It was only then she realized that Rill was holding one as well.
“Was this a gift?” Charlotte asked quietly to the couple, while she heard Rosamund and lord Reginald either protest or whining in the background.
“Yes,” Rill replied with a big smile. “Since Charmy and I are in different squads, it’s not always easy to keep in contact. Except with communication devices, so I gave her one. Along with a cookbook filled with recipes typical of the Spade Kingdom, otherwise she wouldn’t have loved the gift.”
Yes, this sounded a lot like Charmy. Charlotte couldn’t help but smile.
“So, while she was hiding as a little wool ball in Yamis pocket, she called you with her device and you were able to hear everything?”
“Yes, and I was rather lucky that the Wizard King just passed by the moment I got the call. I was telling Fuegoleon and lady Lital what kind of suspicions you have concerning your aunt and the thievery in the Common Realm. Your instinct was right, by the way. Nozels vice-captain, lady Agatha, was right next to us when I got the call and I think she also told lady Océane about it. But Asta, Magna, Sol and lady Noelle just happened to follow us. Oh, Yuno and lady Mimosa where there as well, but he remained in the ballroom, to make sure that there won’t be a panic.”
“Good. Nobles panicking would have only made things worse, I fear.”
“Can we go now, Rill? I still missed some precious time of eating food because of those eating-time-thieves, la.”
Eating-time-thieves! Charlotte had to hold back a laugh, especially that Charmy looked so serious and angry while saying this. She really had a huge imagination concerning insults, especially bonded with food and eating.
Rill just smiled lovingly at his little girlfriend, before the both of them moved towards the door. But before they could leave the room, Julius took a hold of them.
“Thank you both so much as well. That strategy with the communication device is so clever! Maybe we should ask the labs to work on such of tools who can record sounds and noises, or images! Marx, please take note of this! How did you get such a device, Charmy?”
“Oh, Rill gave it to me, to keep in touch. It’s a pain when I can’t talk with my boyfriend because he’s in another squad, la.”
“Wait, what?”
“Excuse me?”
Charlotte had to hold back a laugh when she witnessed the surprise of the other people present in the room. Especially Rosamund, who even dared to be offended despite being just arrested and Yami even more, who looked so clueless that it was adorable.
The only one who wasn’t surprised was Julius, but well, at this point Charlotte was used for the Wizard King to just know things.
“La, if you all would excuse me… The buffet is awaiting me! Let’s go, Rill!”
The captain of the Aqua Deer just waved at everyone, before leaving through the door, still holding his tiny girlfriend in his arms.
“This is outrageous!” Rosamund now squeaked, clearly trying to fight against the situation by every means possible. “As if my niece with a foreigner or a royal with a witch wasn’t enough, now we even have a noble with a… what is she even, commoner, peasant or something else entirely?”
Charlotte could see how each Black Bull present was about to attack Rosamund and to be fair, she was close to do the same thing as well. But before anyone could attack a prisoner, Rosette Vitrail talked again, saving them from consequences. “Lady Rosamund, haven’t you said once in a noble circle that house Boismortier shouldn’t count as nobles, because it’s from low nobility? So, you don’t need to care and to be offended about captain Rill being with a knight of the Black Bulls.”
“Not to mention that you aren’t in a situation to protest, dear Rosamund,” Océane Vermillion added with a smile, sounding as if she was talking about the weather. “You have no bonds to the noble house of Boismortier and you are right now under arrest, accused even.”
“I am a NOBLE of high nobility and member of house Roselei!”
“But you’re not popular,” Océane replied, gently poking Rosamunds nose. “And I hope you won’t insult my beloved nephew again. In my case, I’m delighted he choose such a dear girl as his future wife. And I know that my late sister would have loved young Vanessa.”
Nozel was now blushing, just like Vanessa, but she was smiling brightly. Seemed like lady Océane Vermillion already knew about those two. Charlotte smiled softly. Having support was always a blessing for couples.
“Well, let’s not have those people longer here than necessary,” Julius said, clapping his hands. “Bring lady Roselei, lord Reginald and the three lackeys to the prison. Yes, you as well, lord Reginald. Keeping silent on a crime is a delict as well, ask Damnatio Kira. To each their own cells, in case they start to go at each other’s throats. And where is the boy called Alban?”
“Here,” Charlotte said, taking Albans hand and bringing him towards the Wizard King. The boy was still munching on the cupcake Charmy gave him and he looked shyly at the Wizard King, who smiled softly at him.
“Don’t be afraid, Alban. No one here is going to hurt you,” Fuegoleon said to him with a smile, even kneeling in front of the child to look eye to eye. “Do you know who I am?”
“Yes, you’re Fuegoleon Vermillion, captain of the Crimson Lions.”
“Exactly. And this person who looks like a child is the Wizard King. The man next to him is Marx François, practically his right hand. You can trust them, don’t worry. They will take care of you and not only them.”
“I… I won’t go back to the orphanage I was before? I hated being there, it was horrible.”
“Oh, don’t worry, you won’t,” Julius immediately replied, patting Albans head. “We can’t tell you yet definitely what will happen to you, Alban. But you’re under my protection now. Marx and I will bring you to the Magic Knight Headquarters, where you will have your very own room as long as you stay with us and you will also have late, but copious dinner. Does this sound good? Excellent! Oh, before I forget, what kind of magic do you have?”
“Me? Um… I have wood magic.”
“Really, how fascinating! You ABSOLUTELY need to tell me more about it during dinner! It’s been so terribly long since I’ve met someone with wood magic!”
“Sir, please hold yourself back or you’re going to scare your little protégé,” Marx said with an exasperated sigh. Taking Albans hand softly and Julius’ hand more firmly, he left with them after biding goodbye to everyone.
But they didn’t left right away, as Julius immediately wanted to stop in front of Lac. Never had Charlotte seen the Wizard King looking at someone with such a serious stare, even with a bit of anger.
“Lord Julius,” Lac just said, nodding at the Wizard King in cold policy.
But Julius Novachrono had more to say. “Lord Lac. I wouldn’t be surprised if you have something to do with what happened, one way or another. But there’s sadly not enough evidence against you. Don’t be so happy about it. Acier was a dear friend and a loyal colleague, I would hate to see the most precious legacy she left behind falling into dust because of you. And by that, I mean her four children. They all became amazing Magic Knights, as the Wizard King I am really proud of them. All their lives are still in front of them, not only concerning power. I know your reputation and if you’re really that smart, you’ll better leave now and let your children live. Nozel will certainly watch out for that and he will not only have my blessing and support, but also from all the Magic Knights squads and many more. You have no idea how many people truly care for him and for the Silvas. Not to mention that a new diplomatic trip is awaiting for you after the ball, if I understood king Augustus correctly. Just not in Hino, we Magic Knights will take care of that.”
Lord Lac looked like he was about to protest, to say something that would put everyone still present under a Damocles sword, like he always did. But to Charlottes biggest surprise, he said nothing. He just nodded at the Wizard King, glared for a second at Nozel, Noelle and even Vanessa before he actually left the room, his black cape waving behind him. As he disappeared, Charlotte could have sworn to hear Nozel sigh in relief.
Julius nodded with satisfaction, before whispering something in Marx’ ear. Marx nodded in agreement, before both left the salon with little Alban.
It was only after the three of them disappeared that a huge wave of relief washed over Charlotte. It was actually over. She won’t have to worry to be bothered by Reginald Évantail anymore. The mystery behind those thefts in the Common Realm was lifted, in a way that was indeed surprising, but not impossible to handle. And most importantly… She wouldn’t have to keep her relationship with Yami a secret any longer. Their future together was more certain today and they would have people to support them.
It was almost too good to be true, but Charlotte was tired of holding back her love anymore. Holding back seemed now so very impossible when it came to Yami.
Just as she turned towards him, he started to yell, “How the fuck did Charmy ended up with Glowing Hair of all people? First Vanessa with Bird Braid, now this? Can’t you brats stop falling in love for a moment?”
“What about Finral and Finesse, sir?” Asta asked in return.
“They don’t count, Finesse is not another captain and my wheels was head over heels for her for a long time already, plus they’re married now, end of story.”
Charlotte didn’t know if she wanted to roll her eyes or laugh, but she absolutely needed to fight an urge right now.
“We didn’t know about Charmy and the captain of the Aqua Deer!” Magna protested in panic. “No one has told us!”
“They just forgot to tell everyone, because the two of them thought they already did,” Charlotte said before Yami could start to argue back. “At least, this is what Rill told me earlier.”
Rosette hid her laugh behind her hand.
“Typical of Charmy, you have to admit,” Vanessa giggled, still holding Nozels hand.
“You have nothing to say, wino,” Magna pouted. “You are dating Noelles bro’ and you haven’t told us once!”
“Yeah, why haven’t you told us, Vanessa?” Asta asked, more confused than upset. “You never hold any secrets, so why now?”
“Because of circumstances, Asta. A lot of circumstances. I will tell the Black Bulls everything after the ball, once we’re all together and calmer. Well, as calm as we Black Bulls can be. But first, a little warning. Don’t you dare to threaten Nozel! He is treating me perfectly already and he went through a lot already for very long. So no threats allowed!”
“What? Why?” Magna, Asta and even Yami protested, much to Rosettes amusement, as she was giggling even more behind her hand. Lital Lys was laughing as well, while Fuegoleon just rolled his eyes.
Sol just looked like she felt lost, the poor girl and Agatha Austen, seemed very unfazed by the whole situation. But honestly, Charlotte only knew the vice-captain of the Silver Eagles as someone really, really calm.
“I would also really appreciate if you won’t threaten my brother,” Noelle hissed, immediately standing in front of Nozel and Vanessa. Ah yes, Charlotte almost forgot that the young princess already knew.
Vanessa had been right, Noelle was indeed their biggest supporter.
“Wait, Noelle, you knew?” Asta yelled in disbelief. “But… why haven’t you told us anything?”
“Because it wasn’t my secret to tell, stupid Dorksta! And if you all still want to threaten my brother, you will have to go through me!”
“Noelle, dear, don’t get too upset and please put your wand down,” Océane Vermillion interjected with a smile. “I’m sure that once your squadmates will come over their shock, they will be really happy for Nozel and Vanessa, am I right?”
The first smile of the evening appeared on Agatha Austen’s face. “The Silver Eagles would be happy for sure. Congratulations captain Nozel, you deserve this. And thank you a lot, lady Vanessa. Thanks to you, our captain isn’t overworking himself anymore and he is finally more relaxed at work. It does him good.”
“Oh, thanks for the compliment, vice-captain Agatha,” Vanessa cheered, while Nozel looked away in a blush. “You see, captain Yami? If the Silver Eagles can accept my relationship with Nozel that easily, surely it would be a piece of cake for the Black Bulls.”
“Yeah, not so sure about that… Ouch, Prickly Queen, what was that for?”
“Be nice, Yami.”
“Urgh, fine. Well, I guess that since Rouge works on him, there is really nothing to against it. But don’t count on me to be all lovey dovey happy for you all of a sudden, ya hear me, you two?”
“Wait, Rouge works on captain Nozel/my brother?” the other three Black Bulls exclaimed, Magna and Asta in shock, while Noelle looked very delighted about this news.
“Big sis, are you okay?” Sol finally asked, immediately rushing at her side and taking her hands.
“Sol, I’ve already told you so many a times that you need to call me captain.”
“Of course, big sis!”
Charlotte rolled her eyes. This might never change and honestly, Sol always meant well. She was loyal and protective, no one could take this away from her. Okay, Sol might overdo it a lot, but she was a nice girl.
“I’m alright, Sol, really. Besides, I wasn’t alone. Captain Yami was with me and I couldn’t ask for better support.”
“I guess he’s pretty decent, for a man…” Sol mumbled, to which the present Black Bulls immediately protested with a loud “Hey!”.
“I’m right here, ya know, Giant Boulder- ouch! I mean, Sol. Ya can think of you what you want, but I really care for yer captain here. It wouldn’t be a bad thing for me to care for Charlotte, since she’s my girlfriend.”
Silence.
“WHAT?”
Well, now the cat was out of the bag even more. But to her surprise, Charlotte didn’t cared at all. To be fair, it was bound to happen. Yami and her couldn’t keep their relationship a secret until their dying breath. And it was so liberating, despite the hurdles they will probably face once the whole nobility and everyone else would know.
“I knew it,” Fuegoleon just said with a smile, while Lital giggled. Nozel and Vanessa said nothing, probably secretly happy that the focus wasn’t on them anymore. Lady Océane had a surprise glance, but still smiled. Rosette, on the other hand, observed the reaction of the remaining Black Bulls and Sol, which made her hold her laugh back a second time.
It was indeed somehow hilarious how Sol, Magna, Asta and Noelle looked like their jaws would soon crash on the floor. But Charlotte also felt a bit bad for them. This night might have been full of shocking surprises for some people and Charlotte knew that sometimes it could take some time to properly come around.
“Wait!” Asta exclaimed, pointing at Charlotte and Yami respectively. “Back in Spade, when she told captain Yami that she loves him, it was obviously a friendship confession, not a love confession!”
“Exactly like Asta said!” Magna yelled as well. “They’re friends, it doesn’t make any sense for them to be lovers!”
“Don’t you dare friendzone me like that, you stupid brats!”
“Sorry, sir!”
Vanessa just groaned. “Boys, usually I find your density really fun and endearing. But sometimes, like in this moment, it happens to be really frustrating.”
“What? We’re not dense, you wino!”
“Magna Swing, would you please be so kind and not insult my girlfriend in my presence?”
“Girlfriend?”
“Oh my, this might escalate a bit,” lady Océane said with a small, amused smirk.
Suddenly, Rosette huffed, making everyone in the room turning towards her. “If I may add something to this. Your names are Asta and Magna, right?”
“Yes, miss!” Asta replied with enthusiasm. “My name is Asta, it’s very nice to meet you!”
“You don’t need to scream like that, Bakasta.”
Rosette just giggled. “Nice to make your acquaintance, Asta. My name is Rosette Vitrail. If I may ask you and your squadmate, how do you think lovers usually confess?”
“Well, they say each other I love you, right? That’s certainly how captain Fuegoleon and his girlfriend have done it. And captain Charlotte… huh? Wait…”
It was almost funny to witness how Asta and Magna were slowly but surely putting the knots together, but Charlotte also felt kinda bad for them both. Hopefully they wouldn’t get too much of a headache from it.
“That confession in Spade was a love confession all along?” Asta finally yelled, while Magna had somehow ha hard time to still stand straight. Fuegoleon and Agatha were nice enough to keep him from fall and to bring him a chair immediately.
“What else do you think it was, you morons?” Noelle groaned, letting a hand slide down her face in frustration. Nozel put a comforting hand on his sisters shoulder.
“Okay, yeah, Prickly Queen and I are together, do you have a problem with that?”
“Yami, I think that no one in this room has a problem with that,” Fuegoleon replied, always the diplomat. “It just might be a real shock to your subordinates.”
“Yeah, whatever you say, Hard Nose. And those two better not feel superior because they found out. Especially since Luck already knows.”
“What? Luck knows something this important concerning our captain BEFORE me and he hadn’t said anything? Where is that stupid punk?”
Before anyone could say anything, Magna just walked fast passed lady Océane and the vice-captain of the Silver Eagles towards the door. But just as he was about to leave the room, he bumped into someone.
Or rather, into a couple.
Charlotte frowned, looking closely at the newcomers. Why was Zora Ideale in the company of Nebra Silva? And why were they practically close and arm in arm? And was that a hickey on Zoras neck and another one Nebras cleavage?
Oh, dear Heavens! Please don’t tell that there were another couple from two totally different circles!
“Zora, what are you doing with Nebras sister?” Asta asked naively, while everyone else in the room realized quickly what this would mean.
Charlotte looked quickly towards the other two present Silvas. Nozel just had a blank expression, while Noelle just pointed at Zora and Nebra, opening her mouth but without saying anything.
Those poor siblings. This was like just one shock after another for them.
“Hey, Magna, couldn’t you watch where you’re running… Oh… Oh. Oh shit!”
“It’s not what you think it is!” Nebra yelled in a panic as she saw her siblings and her aunt. But her whole attitude just confirmed any suspicions.
“Dear? It looks like we really need to do it tonight,” Fuegoleon just said to Lital. If those two were surprised by the sudden appearance of Zora and Nebra, they didn’t seem that much shocked still.
“Wait, doing what exactly?” Asta asked, even more confused. But Fuegoleon just smiled kindly at him.
“You’ll understand later, Asta. Don’t worry.”
With that, Fuegoleon and Lital left the room after a goodbye nod. Lady Océane was even giving them a thumb up as they passed her. Did she already knew what those two had in mind?
“Okay, this is just getting weirder,” Noelle finally groaned, apparently done with being surprised. “Solid, if you have a secret lover as well, please come out and tell everyone properly about it.”
But of course, Solid Silva didn’t appear. Because had he neither a secret lover nor was he even present. Goodness, Charlotte was patient, but she also had limits. Another secret couple popping out of nowhere would definitely be too much.
“Um, Nozel? Are you okay?” Nebra asked, suddenly sounding very shy. Nozel was still staring blankly at her and Zora.
Suddenly, he moved towards them. Charlotte felt Yami flinch at her side and she grabbed his arm before he could move as well. It was better to see first what Nozel had the intention to do. Besides, Vanessa looked rather calm about it. And she was apparently very trustworthy with anything concerning Nozel.
The captain of the Silver Eagles just looked blankly at the couple for one second. Then, to everyone’s surprise except Vanessas, Nozel put a hand on Zoras shoulder and nodding in acceptance somehow.
“Okay, what is that supposed to mean?” Zora groaned in utter confusion. “Little Miss Royal, I think your brother is sick by being so kind and accepting.”
“Now, he’s not, that’s just how Nozel really is!” Vanessa protested. “Stop being so harsh on him, Zora, he is not one of those higher-ups you have beef against. And I would REALLY appreciate if you can be nicer to my boyfriend!”
“Boyfriend?”
Both Zora and Nebra looked like as if Nozel cut his braid or something, but Vanessa just grabbed her boyfriend’s arm and dragged him out of the room. “Since everything is more or less settled, goodbye to everyone in case we won’t see you again this night!”
“Oh, Asta?” Nozel suddenly spoke.
“Uh? What is it, captain Nozel, sir?”
“Would you please have a dance with Noelle before the ball is over?”
“Uh, yeah, sure?”
“Thank you.” Nozel actually smiled briefly at Asta before he and Vanessa disappeared out of the door, Agatha Austen right behind them. Charlotte didn’t know what to think about it, but to her Nozels words somehow sounded like a blessing.
Asta was still looking confused, while Noelle hid her blushing face behind her hands. A kinda awkward silent started to spread within the room, until Océane Vermillion clapped her hands with a satisfied smile.
“It seems to me that none of us has nothing else to do in this room. So, Nebra dear and… Zora, was it? There are one or two empty chambers down that hallway, if you want some alone time. Much more comfortable than this room and I hope not filled with stolen goods. Asta, I presume? Be a kind knight and have a dance with my dear niece Noelle, alright? The last dances of a ball are always the best, you should take advantage of it. Sir Yami, lady Charlotte, maybe you should have a dance as well or you can search some calm place if you had enough drama for the night. As for you… your names are Sol and Magna, am I correct? How about I invite you both for something to drink and a bite to eat? Tonight’s rose syrup is a dream for your palette and the vanilla éclairs are just exquisite. Lady Rosette, I invite you too, if you wish.”
“I gladly accept, lady Océane,” Rosette replied with a smile grabbing Magnas arm. “Can we have some chocolate éclairs as well, please? Chocolate is always my favourite.”
“Of course.”
This was the moment Yami somehow snapped out of it. He grabbed Charlottes hand firmly and still softly, while a grumpy “g’bye” left his lips. The left the room, the hallway and even the palace before Charlotte had the chance to say anything.
“Okay, Prickly Queen, that old lady I don’t even know is right. I had certainly enough drama for tonight and I don’t want to go without ya, so we’re leaving if it’s okay for you.”
“Okay, first of all, deep breath, Yami.”
“Huh? ‘kay.”
One or two deep breath and Charlotte was relieved to see him already less tense.”
“I agree, it was definitely enough nerve-wracking excitement for a night. We probably have to deal and discuss with the consequences of our discovery within the next days, but let’s call it a night. Still, I have to ask… Your homeland had been mentioned. How do you feel about it?”
“Honestly? I don’t have a clear idea. It’s been a while since I properly thought about that old Land of the Sun and I was so sure that there was no way back. And now I learn that there is actually a way back? And that it was used for some fucking crime and smuggling or whatever? That’s too complex for me, after everything happening tonight.”
He really seemed unsure about the whole ordeal and Charlotte really couldn’t blame him. How must he feel? She still ignored so much of his past before he came to Clover and she wondered sometimes if it was a burden for him. After all, he always had that sad hint in his eyes when his homeland was mentioned.
“Do you… Do you want to return one day, just to see how it is again?”
“Yes, maybe? Honestly I’m not sure. I haven’t been there for so long and I started a new life here, even more so with you. But at the same time… Since we’re talking about consequences, there is probably one I will need to face back there.”
“Do you want to talk about it?”
“Certainly not tonight, Prickly Queen. It’s a heavy subject. But I will tell you one day and maybe Blue Rose Mama as well.”
Charlotte nodded. He won’t tell her anything yet, as he clearly wasn’t ready and she refused to push him. Tonight… they both needed some true quality time together. Just the two of time, away from anyone.
“Your place or mine?”
“Huh?”
“Where do you want to go, your place or mine? We have a night to finish and we both deserve some quality time together, don’t you think?”
“Damn, woman, yer a dream come true! Gosh, I love ya.”
“I know.”
“Seriously, that’s all you have to answer me, Prickly Queen? Yer breaking my delicate little heart of glass here.”
“Don’t complain, Yami! You gave me the exact same reply when I told you those three precious words for the first time.”
“Damn, yer so cruel, using my own romantic words against me. But it kinda turns me own… Speaking of and to answer you, how about we met at my place for a change? There would be no one before some time, so you can be as loud as you want. And if anyone finds out, yeah, the cat is out of the bag, so who cares. So, ya can still be loud even there is someone.”
“Yami, please! Can’t you- hmpf.”
He shut her up with a kiss and Charlotte had no other choice than to give in. After all, a kiss was such a perfect way to be shut up. Maybe she could use it on him as well when he was talking too much about his toilet breaks.
The music of the ball, the soft breeze in the air, all the sounds of the night seemed so far away, as if they came from another country altogether. Maybe even from the Land of the Sun?
Charlotte didn’t care. She was in Yamis arms, kissing him and feeling so happy because she knew now that they would definitely have this for the rest of their life.
♣♣♣
“I really think you should take more than just one day off, captain Nozel.”
“Please, honey, you clearly deserve some vacation.”
Nozel just sighed, not even out of resignation. It has a mix of exhaustion and happiness in it. Vanessa loved the sound of it. Might become a new favourite sound of hers. Just the party of the Black Bulls, wine flowing into glass and Nozels soft laugh.
She side-glanced to the vice-captain of the Silver Eagles, looking calm as ever and honestly gorgeous in her dark pink dress made of velvet, with the golden ornaments at the bottom of the skirt. It fitted somehow well with her ink blue hair and her light brown eyes.
Vanessa had met Agatha Austen a few times, when she volunteered to bring a rapport to the Silver Eagles. Especially right after Spade, when she used this task as an excuse to try to see Nozel. It seemed so far away already…
But it wasn’t. This period was just a few months ago already. And still, Vanessa had quite the feeling that it happened so much longer ago.
But no war or a big terrorist attack happened since the whole raid in Spade. Okay, there was the thievery in the Common Realm, but thankfully there hasn’t been nothing big behind it, unlike the Eye Of The Midnight Sun or the Dark Triad. And there was also the ball that was supposed to be a trap.
A few things happened still. And a lot of those things were actually happy ones, considering everything. Asta was finally deemed innocent, with vice-captain Nacht the Black Bulls family was finally complete for real, there were even new members from outside the squad, like Finesse and Orchidea, even captain Charlotte. Maybe soon Nozel as well…
Finral finally married Finesse and was on so much better terms with his brother, plus all three of them were even standing up against Ledior and Lillian Vaude. Noelle was on so much better terms with two of her siblings. Luck won a new sister in captain Charlotte and a second mother in Orchidea Roselei. The Black Bulls became even more a family than before.
And for Vanessa herself… She fell in love.
With a man who was complex and had issues, who made mistakes and had been lonely for so long. But who was also caring and kind, who respected her and who loved her back, even with all her flaws.
Falling in love was so much already, such a big thing to happen to her, with many moments, many details. It made a beautiful picture. Some would use a painting as a metaphor. But Vanessa believed that a tapestry suited them better, somehow. A picture she and Nozel waved, embroidered together. And it was just the beginning. Many other details would be added to their tapestry from now on.
“Alright,” Nozel finally said, not sounding as defeated as anyone would have thought. “I will take two or three days of after this ball and I might take a vacation for later. But that still needs to be decided.”
“Perfect, thank you, honey!” Vanessa cheered, while kissing his cheek. Nozel blushed a bit, probably because of the PDA right in front of his vice-captain.
But Agatha Austen didn’t seem to mind, there was just a small and very fond smile on her lips. “Alright, captain Nozel. You don’t need to take charge of it, I’ll do it. You deserve to lay back a bit from time to time, after everything you did for the Silver Eagles and this country in general. Especially as a captain. Good night to you and you as well, lady Vanessa.”
“Good night, Agatha.”
“Right back at you, vice-captain of the Silver Eagles. I hope we can see each other more often now, since I’m dating your handsome captain.”
“Vanessa!”
“What? It’s true, you ARE handsome.”
Agatha just chuckled, before she bowed slightly and left them, her hair and her dress elegantly flowing behind her.
“I love your vice-captain, honey,” Vanessa smiled, while taking Nozels arm, walking back to the ballroom. “And somehow, she is more present than vice-captain Nacht.”
“I thought that he was more present after Spade.”
“He is, but he still loves to take a few days away from us. Apparently, we’re too noisy for him from time to time. Okay, he isn’t wrong, but he could still spent a bit more time with us. Oh, speaking of my squad, maybe you should get properly introduced to them. Don’t worry, you can count on Noelle and me to get your back if they want to threaten you or something.”
“Thank you. But since I’m about to meet your family properly soon, it would only be fair if you would also meet mine one day.”
“Well, Noelle is my squadmate and I already met your lovely auntie. And Mimosa is a very nice girl as well. I already know Nebra a bit, but she only just learned about us like five minutes ago.”
“She might be under shock for a while. But I think that it will be fine. After all, she is also with someone out of noble and royal circles and she became somehow more open towards lower classes lately.”
Vanessa giggled as Nozel mentioned how Nebra and Zora were a couple. Well, that was indeed quite a surprise for many, including herself, and it was so adorably obvious how he still tried to come to terms with it. But he already gave them his blessings.
“Solid might be not happy about this, but I think I can handle him. He might get used to you after a while. As for my cousin Kirsch… You are beautiful, so he would certainly accept you immediately. Also…”
Nozel looked away, clearly blushing. Vanessa couldn’t help but frown. What did she do this time to make him blush?
“Also?”
“If… if you don’t mind… I would like if you could meet my squad. Properly, as my… girlfriend. I don’t know if each of my knight would accept you, most of them are from noble houses. But I’m pretty certain that most of them might accept you.”
“Oh, come on, there’s no need to be embarrassed about it! Of course I want to meet your squad properly, since it means a lot to you! Besides, I already know some Silver Eagles, why shouldn’t I get to know more.”
“You… really want to?”
Vanessa just kissed his cheek and grabbed his arm in response, pulling him further.
“About that vacation… Was your vice-captain right? You really have this much free days you still need to use? Nozel, at this point it is really vital that you get some vacation. All those years of being a Magic Knight and only a few days of here and there?”
That had been quite shocking for Vanessa to learn. Okay, she had knew that Nozel worked a lot, even overworked since he became a Magic Knight, especially as a captain. But never a vacation, this was quite a lot. It was a miracle he hadn’t passed out of exhaustion already. At least, as far as she knows.
“Well… I… Let’s not talk about it right now,” Nozel replied and from the tone of his voice, Vanessa could tell that he was blushing.
“I didn’t scold you honey, don’t get all blushy. But you’re right, we’ll talk about later, after this ball. Speaking of, the ballroom is just a few feet away now. So, which way shall we take?”
“What do you mean?”
“Shall we leave immediately in all discretion and postponing to deal with the gossip tsunami or shall we enter the ballroom full of nobles who saw us dancing during that so special waltz and deal with said gossip tsunami right away?”
Vanessa personally preferred if she and Nozel could leave immediately. Everything that happened tonight, especially a few minutes ago, has been a lot already, so now even dealing with all the nobles going on a goose chase with rumours of them popping everywhere… and she longed to some privacy again, quality time with Nozel.
But at the same time, Vanessa also knew that they couldn’t postpone facing the gossip forever. Eventually, they would have to deal with nobles knowing about them and having their own biased, hypocrite opinions about their relationship already.
Maybe they should entering the ballroom again one last time. Just to confirm everything and then take their leave.
Nozel must have come to the same conclusion, as he replied with cautious, “Would… would it be okay for you to go to the ball one last time? Just for a moment, to confirm that our relationship is official. But if you don’t want to-“
“Honey, we will need to face it eventually and it might be better that we don’t postpone it. Besides, the hardest part is already behind us. You faced your father without yielding once and it seems that even the Wizard King himself will make sure that he won’t get away this easily next time.”
“Lac has certainly lost something big tonight. He made a mistake because for once, something didn’t go according to his plan. My aunt promised me that I won’t be alone anymore dealing with him. He will probably go lick his wounds for a long time. Which doesn’t mean that he won’t come back, that we might face him again in the future.”
“Well, if he did one mistake, he can make others as well. And you won’t be alone anymore facing him. Not that you can’t do it alone. You were amazing back in that room. I’m really proud of you, Nozel.”
Nozel looked at her, a small, surprised smile on his lips. Vanessa just smiled back. It was the truth, she was proud of him. For many reasons. And she’ll make sure that he would get this feeling again in the future. So that one day, he will be able to be proud of himself.
Now, they stood in front of the ballroom’s entrance. Vanessa took in a deep sigh. Whatever gossip they might face in this room, it was something she would deal more often with in the future. As Nozels wife, as a royal, as a new Silva.
It was not what she would have expected her life to become, when she was free from the cage, when she became a Black Bull. To be fair, she had never been one to really care about the future before, living as much as she could in the present.
Being a royal was certainly a lot of pain. She saw it with Noelle, she witnessed it even more with Nozel since he was in charge of a royal house. Heck, she even saw it with Finesse, who had an arranged marriage.
But Finesse loved Finral truly. Noelle bloomed within the Black Bulls. And despite his lonely situation, Nozel still managed to have a kind heart and be caring under his cold mask. Today, Vanessa knew that by marrying Nozel and becoming a royal, it didn’t mean that she would be back in a cage.
She can live with that, she can make it work with Nozel. It wasn’t impossible. Not only to make a change, but also to make sure that this won’t stay an exception.
Nozel took her hand, holding it firmly.
He looked at her.
She looked at him.
They passed the entrance.
Just as they entered, a sound was heard, as if someone was taping against a glass. Vanessa looked around and thankfully, no one was paying attention to them. Yet.
Instead, most guests were focused on captain Fuegoleon, who had been the one tapping on a glass, and Lital, who stood beside him. Both of them looked determined and happy.
Oh, don’t tell me…
“I have an announcement to make,” captain Fuegoleon declared, his deep voice filling the ballroom. “I don’t know how many of you are aware already, but lady Lital Lys and me have been in a relationship for quite a long time. To a point that I can’t imagine the rest of my life without her at my side. So, I finally asked her to marry me. And Lital said yes. Our wedding will be celebrated during spring of the next year.”
There was a silence. Then, the whole ballroom seemed to be filled with applause and cheers, congratulating the new betrothed. Vanessa herself couldn’t help but clap her hands in excitement.
A wedding, when made out of love, was always exciting. Especially when it was people she knew. She became good friends with Lital during their missions for Soie Velours and as for captain Fuegoleon, he was not only Nozels rival, but somehow also his best friend. Even though Nozel might not admit right away.
Still, Vanessa couldn’t help but hug her boyfriend. “Oh gosh, isn’t this exciting, honey? A new royal wedding to look forward to and I can certainly learn a lot of things when it will be our turn!”
“It was also clever of them.”
“What do you mean?”
“By announcing their engagement, most of the future gossip will be focused on them, on the future royal wedding. Of course there will be words about us, as well as Yami and Charlotte. But the perspective of a royal wedding always gets the most attention. Which means, that we might had facing less gossip than we feared at first.”
Oh. Vanessa hadn’t thought about that. But this was actually great news for her and Nozel. For captain Yami and captain Charlotte as well. The perspective of facing less rumours and nobles judging them was actually more than welcome.
Vanessa was just about to kiss Nozel – yes, in front of everyone – when someone called them. “And here I thought that the two of you would have left already.”
Both Vanessa and Nozel turned around, to see the newly engaged coming towards her. Lital was waving at them, while pulling a happy captain Fuegoleon behind her.
Vanessa just smiled back as they reached her and Nozel. Fuegoleon immediately took his rival to the side, so she gave Lital a happy hug.
“We considered it, but we also thought that we shouldn’t be postponing to face all the gossip and the judgements anymore. Although, there is less to face now, with yours and captain Fuegoleons wedding to look forward to.”
“This was our idea,” Lital replied with a satisfied smile. “Both Fue and I know how nobles can be judgemental, how rumours can hurt more than they should. You and Nozel, as well as captain Yami and captain Charlotte, you just came out of secrecy, which can made the gossip kitchen overflow and that’s a lot to deal with. So, we decided to announce our betrothal tonight, so that would have less to deal with for a while.”
“So, you did it on purpose? Thank you, that’s so nice of you both! But then, you also knew about Nozel and me before?”
“As well as captain Charlotte and captain Yami. Yes, we did. If you want, I’ll tell you one day, once we have the time for some girl talk.”
“That would be lovely! Oh, and congratulations for your engagement!”
“Thanks a lot, Vanessa. I also wanted to ask you… Remember how you asked me to be my bridesmaid? Well, I would love if you would be.”
“Really! Thank you so much! I accept gladly, you’ll see, I’m going to be best bridesmaid you can ask for.”
“I’m honestly certain of it. Thank you for accepting my offer.”
Vanessa just smiled. A wave of happiness washed upon her, as she realized all the joy she just got. All at once. It was an amazing feeling.
Their boyfriends had finished their talk and came up to them. Captain Fuegoleon even bowed respectfully in front of her. Almost as if she was already a royal, but maybe also just because she was the girlfriend of his best friend and rival.
“Vanessa, it might be considered too early for it, but it feels like the right time for me. Welcome to our rather wide family.”
“Thank you, captain Fuegoleon! This actually means a lot to me and to Nozel certainly even more.”
Nozel blushed, of course, but didn’t deny her statement. Of course not. They might haven’t talked about it often, but Vanessa knew that how much this would mean to him.
That she was accepted by his family and relatives, at least those who mattered to him.
Fuegoleon and Lital couldn’t stay for long, because apparently they had been asked to open the next dance. In honour of their betrothal. And indeed, the preparation notes of the next dance already started.
Nozel coughed a bit, but his voice was firm as bowed slightly in front of her, reaching his hand, “May I have this dance? One last dance before we leave this ball.”
“That would be lovely.”
Like at Finrals and Finesses wedding, her voice acted on its own. But unlike back then, she wasn’t confused. Today, she was certain and she smiled brightly as she took his hand while they walked towards the dancefloor.
Like the other dance couples, they waited until Fuegoleon and Lital has taken their position when the preparation melody stopped.
The music started.
Fuegoleon and Lital started to waltz around slowly.
A few seconds passed before the other dancers joined them. Nozel hold Vanessas hand firmly as they swayed to the music.
“It seems that you can’t resist when it comes to dance with me, right, handsome eagle?”
“No, no I can’t.”
Of course he couldn’t. And to be honest, Vanessa loved to dance with him as well. Be it to the sound of rain or to music. Speaking of, the music of this waltz was beautiful. Vanessa even preferred it to the other waltz they had danced tonight.
For a moment, she just focused on Nozel, on the music, on their dance. It felt so much like paradise. In fact, enjoying to be with the man she loved always felt like paradise.
Two silhouettes were dancing nearby and Vanessa couldn’t help but giggle as she recognized the dancing couple.
“What is it?”
“Look, honey. It looks like Asta followed your suggestion and invited Noelle to dance. Although, it looks more like that she is leading and not Asta.”
It was indeed Noelle who was leading, even though she still blushed and looked a bit stiff, probably because she and Asta were so close. As for Asta, he still looked confused, but at the same time, he was still having a great time.
Side-glancing at Nozel, Vanessa felt some happy pride as she saw his soft smile while he observed his little sister dancing with Asta.
“I’m so happy that you’re so supporting of Noelle with her own love life, honey. It also means a lot to her.”
“Who am I too judge, Vanessa? Besides, I think it’s also thanks to you that I’m not against it. If it weren’t for you… I don’t think I would have been so open-minded at first.”
“And you’ll probably would have seen one more reason to sacrifice yourself into a loveless marriage, just so that Noelle could be with Asta.”
“Yes, most certainly.”
Vanessa just nodded. She knew that he would have. But thankfully he wouldn’t, which was so much more relieving for her than anyone would have imagined. Despite how much she would love to see Asta and Noelle FINALLY together, being it on Nozels sacrifice would never had suited well with her. And Noelle would have hated it as well. She had told them that one of the reasons she never tried anything yet with Asta was because she refused that her oldest brother would sacrifice himself.
But as good as this excuse was, Noelle didn’t have it anymore.
“You won’t need to sacrifice yourself ever again,” Vanessa whispered, getting closer to him than any normal waltz would allow it. “And I’m making sure that it won’t happen. As much as I can.”
“You wouldn’t leave me any choice in the first place. After all, no one can say no to a witch.”
She heard the amusement in his voice and couldn’t help but chuckle. Oh yes, no one could say no to a witch and he was practically the only person she knew who took this at heart. In fact, it started to become like a little running gag between them when they happened to have different opinions and so, they were able to laugh about it.
Vanessa couldn’t resist but to put a soft kiss on his lips. It was bold, yes, they were in the middle of a dancing crowd and it was probably not proper to kiss during a waltz.
But Vanessa didn’t care. She loved Nozel and she had no reason anymore to keep it a secret. It was such an amazing feeling.
She felt Nozel smiling against her lips. He was happy as well that their relationship wasn’t a secret anymore. He also wouldn’t need his cold mask as much as before. Nozel was finally allowing himself more freedom, more happiness and Vanessa wanted to witness each one of his steps out of his cold cage.
Their talk in Spade had just been the start of something absolutely beautiful. Vanessa didn’t know if it was Fate itself or just a mere coincidence, but who cares. She would hold onto her new found happiness, no matter what.
