It has been a month since the Kirishima's have left Allemania and it seemed like the dark clouds above the duchy weren't passing.
The former Archduke Richard's condition hadn't gotten any better. If anything, it had rather gotten worse ever since the farewell of their in-laws.
He remained bedridden and both his sons were working diligently to keep their duchy up to its high living standard.
That naturally put a strain on the rather fresh young couple of Kleingoldlinden.
Although they had moved back to their small island, the workload didn't allow much free time. Yumiko wasn't obligated to help Linda with her tasks as the reigning Archduchess anymore, however it inspired her to improve much harder on her own duties. Which kept her highly occupied.
As for Benedikt, he was more involved in the state affairs than ever. For both the duchy and his island. A few weeks ago a new order from the Imperial Ministry came in, it only confirmed the looming anticipation of a large-scale conflict. His Imperial Majesty and the Ministry of Defense had ordered for a stronger armament. That put Leopold and Benedikt in a precarious situation as they had to prepare for the upcoming winter that already lingered in the cool air coming from the ocean.
It was difficult to balance the priorities, as they couldn't defy the Imperial orders to put their own interests first, however it was in that exact arrangement of tasks and planning that made it possible to fulfil both demands. That on the other hand meant for them to work more than usual. In order to manage the necessary supplies and inventory for the cold season while also keeping up the manufacture of military ships and the training, they both basically worked double shifts.
It was the delicate and timely administration of manpower and scheduling that would secure the execution of the Imperial order and the preparations for the winter.
The trees have already changed their colours and offered a stunningly beautiful scenery not far from the coast. However, it was nearly impossible for Benedikt to share the change of season with Yumiko as they both drowned in work.
For Benedikt it felt agonising to have no real opportunity to spend any time with his wife. Not even after her family had departed was he allowed to comfort her.
The days and weeks have passed without the possibility to sit down with her to see how she felt. Benedikt knew that she kept herself just as occupied as him, as she didn't want to lack any efforts to maintain and to manage their island. It was important to her to be an exemplary leader of one's obligation rooted in one's title.
That was one of the reasons why Benedikt held back and also focused diligently on his duties, as he knew that she would dislike it if he were to neglect his obligations for her. In a way she was free-spirited and capable of openly criticising the world that they are living in, but she was also the proud daughter of an influential lord and now a Princess.
While she could see the flaws in their society and defy their customs, she would never dare cause any blemish to her name. Benedikt respected her for that and although he sometimes wouldn't necessarily prioritise his work over her, he understood that it was simply important to her.
So in order to accommodate her values, he had to hold back his own desire to be with her.
It was vexing.
Truly agonising.
"Your mind is wandering, Your Royal Highness," Hagen cleared his throat discreetly.
Benedikt didn't react but focused back on what was happening in front of him. They were supervising the manufacturing process in one of the large halls. The workers were busy putting the parts of the new ship together.
The atmosphere was good and although the employees were also working more than usual, the overall spirits were high. More work also meant more payment and therefore a chance to save up the surplus for harder times.
Benedikt remembered the current reports about the inner economical situation of Hohengoldlinden and the numbers proved that the hard work paid off in the general scheme of things too. The duchy was doing well financially and the people were pleased and understanding about Leopold taking over his role as the reigning Archduke.
"What time is it?" Benedikt didn't look at Hagen when he asked the question as he was still observing the process in front of him.
"Three in the afternoon, Your Royal Highness."
Benedikt nodded.
"What are you plotting?" Hagen spoke with an obvious undertone of scepticism.
The blonde Prince turned around and grinned at his brunette aide.
"I think it is time to dedicate myself to an obligation that I have dismissed for far too long."
Hagen looked at him questioningly. He knew exactly what Benedikt's schedule was, there weren't any tasks open that they might have delayed.
Benedikt chuckled and patted him on the shoulder as he walked past.
"Hagen, it is time to see my wife!"
His aide would know what to do to wrap their visit here in the hall up. Benedikt knew that Hagen would be understanding enough to let him have his way this time and if not, then he would force his personal feelings through. He didn't wait for his response. Being a proper husband was also an obligation that he couldn't and didn't want to neglect any longer. As much as he wanted to respect Yumiko's desire to be proper in their role, he also wanted to tend to her personal well-being regardless of their position.
They were just regular people after all.
Benedikt felt exhilarated, his steps were light and moved swiftly to the horse carriage waiting outside the hall.
He ordered the coachman to give him one horse so he could quickly ride over to the pier where he would then take his small boat to sail over to Kleingoldlinden.
The coachman understood and hurriedly got one of the horses ready.
Benedikt thanked him happily and was already on his way to the coast close by.
With the help of the sailors he got his boat to take off soon after and more than ever Benedikt felt elated.
The fresh wind on his face and the feeling of steering his boat through the salty waves gave him the impression of freedom. It was only him and the ocean. As he felt the current breaking on his small boat he felt thrilled. It has been too long since he last actually enjoyed sailing. So far it was solely to get to the main island as quickly as possible. At the same time he felt his heart jumping in excitement, he wanted to spend the remainder of the day with Yumiko, fully dedicated to her. She had to be understanding of his desires and wishes too.
Luckily the wind was in his favour and he reached Kleingoldlinden faster than anticipated.
The employees by the pier didn't expect his arrival so soon which threw them a bit off guard. But they still managed to swiftly prepare a horse so that he could continue on to the estate.
Without losing any bit of his eagerness he pushed up the hill passing the neatly planted trees that fenced the cobbled path towards their home.
The employees of the estate must have seen him coming from the pier as they welcomed him hurriedly as he reached the front door.
"Welcome back, Your Royal Highness." They bowed down and Benedikt swung off the horse.
"Where is my wife?" He took off his jacket and handed it to the nearest maid. She folded it neatly in her arms. "In her office, Your Royal Highness."
"I freed my schedule for the rest of the day, please inform the other employees," Benedikt ruffled his hair and walked through the front door that was held open for him. "I shall enjoy the entirety of the time with my wife."
He grinned brightly as he passed the hallway with large steps, knowing exactly where to go. It has been a long time since he had been home during the day time.
He stopped right before Yumiko's office and straightened his shirt, clearing his throat and finally knocking at the door with enthusiasm.
Takane opened the door from within and for a brief moment he could see her surprise. "Your Royal Highness Prince Benedikt." She bowed down and made way for him to enter the office.
He smiled at her and his eyes wandered through the room, spotting Yumiko at her desk, looking up at him.
"Benedikt." Yumiko raised her eyebrows and she stood up from her wooden desk. She was just as baffled as everyone else that he had passed. "Did something happen?" She walked around the table, keeping her right hand on the edge of the wood, gently holding onto it. Her expression was worried.
He took off his shoes and walked inside, approaching her determinedly. Benedikt took her hands softly and couldn't hold back his smile as he stood in front of her.
"Yes."
Yumiko frowned upon hearing his obvious grin.
"I have missed you," with a gentle motion he lifted her up by her waist, she gasped in bewilderment and panicky held onto his shoulders. "I have to request for your forgiveness once again."
To his own surprise she didn't protest his sudden movement. Instead a loving smile adored her lips.
"I'm not too sure if I can do that." She smirked at him.
He kissed her chin. "What do I have to do to deserve your generosity?"
She tilted her head sideways, pondering.
"I will do anything." Benedikt turned around and began walking towards the door, still holding her up.
"First, you have to let me down," she smiled at him and he did as she said. Yumiko straightened her kimono. "Oh my, what should I do? I was in the midst of my work." She turned to him and sighed at him. "Takane-san." She called out to her maid.
"Yes, Your Royal Highness," Takane stepped forward and bowed down.
"Is there a possibility for me to neglect my work today?"
Takane looked at Benedikt with a curious expression. Benedikt put his hands together in a begging motion and gave her a pleading look. She smiled and nodded understandingly.
Their silent exchange worked out.
"Certainly, Your Royal Highness. You have worked plenty already." Takane answered her with a serious tone and bowed down again.
"Is that so?" Yumiko glanced at Benedikt, her expression showed that she wasn't oblivious about whatever happened silently between him and her maid.
"Yes, Your Royal Highness," Takane confirmed again. "I shall take care of whatever is still open. Please feel free to enjoy your free time."
"If that is the case," Yumiko nodded and took Benedikt's hand. "Then I shall dedicate myself to this case here at hand."
She smiled at him.
He returned her smile and squeezed her hand.
Benedikt looked at Takane and mouthed a "Thank you". She shook her head, bowing before him.
He was even more thankful to Yumiko for playing along.
She led them towards the door where he helped her into her shoes first.
Benedikt stayed kneeled before her and looked up at her.
"What do I have to do?"
She returned his gaze. "I guess I have to think about that."
Yumiko walked past him briskly. He grinned, put on his own shoes and followed her.
She strided playfully through the hall of their home, seemingly without a certain destination.
Benedikt observed her silently, smiling and adoring her. The estate's employees seemed to have been informed accordingly as they passed not a single soul.
She must have missed him too if she was willing to go with his spontaneous antics. Or at least this was what he wished for.
He cursed at himself for not doing that earlier, fearing that he would upset her. He should have known that she wouldn't dare break away from her obligations and work if it wasn't for him.
She twirled around and stopped. Benedikt also came to a stop and looked at her in curiosity.
"We haven't been in the garden for a long time."
"Indeed," Benedikt took her hand. "Shall we go there first?"
"That would be lovely," she smiled at him brightly and Benedikt felt his heart thumping in his chest. There was just so much that he felt for her, he had never adored someone as much as her.
As they walked along the wooden bright hallway passing the large windows it seemed like they were accompanying them with the bright light flooding into their home.
To Benedikt it felt like they were the only ones present right now.
Even all the worries and the tight work schedule seamlessly faded away from his consciousness. Right here and right now, Yumiko was all that he wanted to see and think about.
Benedikt held the door open for Yumiko to enter the garden.
Just now he realised that it must have been forever since he last visited their garden. The plants have changed drastically and he realised that he missed the summer season here.
He watched as Yumiko confidently walked on the smooth stone path in between all the rows of flowers, small trees, round bushes and the ponds.
She knew exactly how to navigate through the garden, turning her head in curiosity as she seemed to have noticed something unexpected. Benedikt followed her quietly, never letting her go out of his sight, while she was admiring the abundance of floral arrangements. He didn't know what little detail or change would catch her attention at the moment and in a sense this uncertainty was fascinating to him.
Yumiko moved along the path with ease as if she was able to see exactly how it looked.
"Say," she twirled around and faced him. "What does the garden look like to you?"
Benedikt raised his eyebrows in surprise, he didn't expect that question, although it wasn't far fetched either. He stopped in his way and looked around.
The garden was well kept in yashimian style. According to the gardener, who learned from a yashimian professional, the way the pond, stones and trees were placed within the space all had a specific meaning.
Everything was in their rightful position to ensure a peacefully pleasant arrangement. The gardener managed to include western plants as well without disturbing the overall order.
Benedikt didn't know much about these sentimental things, but he enjoyed the garden, it was kept neatly and didn't overwhelm with its selection of plants.
The garden radiated a feeling of calmness and peace.
He looked back at Yumiko who stood a few steps away from him. She wore a kimono in light variations of beige, gold and red. Her black hair was put up together with a matching hair accessory and it shimmered velvety in the sunlight. The rays of light came down just perfectly through the clouds.
"The garden looks quite straightforward, it feels clear and outright with its intentional arrangement. The grass has a lush green colour and is perfectly trimmed. The ponds are clean and even through the water you can see to the bottom with an unhindered view. Some fish are inside, swimming about their way," Benedikt approached Yumiko while speaking and without breaking his glance at her. "The trees are just about the right height and shape and the flowers are vibrant specs of colour." He stopped right in front of her, his head tilted downwards, they were close but he made sure not to touch her.
He felt his heart fluttering and he wondered if she was able to hear that.
"However, what makes the garden so beautiful is your presence."
Yumiko's lips curled to a grin as she looked up at him.
Benedikt returned her smile, gave in and gently took her hand. He loosely held onto the tips of her fingers.
"Oh my," Yumiko whispered and he could see her cheeks blushing. "I'm not too sure if I can imagine what that looks like."
Benedikt's smile deepened. With his other hand he brushed away a loose strand of her hand that had fallen into her face and tucked it away behind her ear.
"Worry not, for as the most beautiful flower shall not be troubled with the trifling matter of her surroundings. I only shall savour the sight before me." Benedikt leaned forwards and kissed Yumiko on her forehead.
"Tell me," Yumiko was still whispering with a smile on her lips.
"Anything," Benedikt observed her expression that slowly turned more serious.
"How do I look like to you?"
This question took Benedikt aback. They hadn't really talked about that ever before. Surely, he wasn't frugal with his earnest compliments about her, however he wrongfully assumed that she wasn't interested in any superficial opinions.
Certainly, it was only natural for a young woman to be interested in her husband's opinion, despite the fact that she can't really relate to it. In her world there was no such thing as beauty and ugliness. Those words could possibly only refer to whatever was in the heart and mind of those around her.
At the same time Benedikt didn't feel any hesitation on answering that question for he had always seen her just the way she is; beautiful.
Benedikt cupped her cheek with his hand, gently lifting her head upwards so he could take a proper look at her, although the image of her was etched deeply into his head a long time ago.
"Who I can see now and who I have always seen from the first time we ever met is a young lady, whose beauty is unique to whatever was considered beautiful on this continent before and who ultimately changed that perception since she stepped foot from the ship that brought her here. You have the darkest hair that I have ever seen before, it appears black at first glance, however in the light it shimmers in different shades of brown," he caressed her cheek with his thumb. "Your skin is so light that it sometimes seems almost translucent. Your eyes are crowned with a row of dark eyelashes." Benedikt slowly leaned forward and blew a kiss on her closed eyelids.
He then slowly followed downwards along the line of her nose with his fingertips. "Your nose trails straight onto your lips that form a heart shape." Benedikt ran his thumb on her lower lip.
"That just seem to," he began to whisper and leaned in closer. "Invite me ceaselessly."
Benedikt brushed her lips with his, an all so sweet yet painfully brief moment where they almost kissed.
"In my perspective I couldn't have ever been bothered about the true beauties of the world until I met you. I was a blind man walking through my foolish life, unknowing and unaware. But when you arrived at the shore of Hohengoldlinden it felt like you had opened my eyes and I could finally see." Benedikt remained close to her, hovering just a breath away from her lips. "You have made me see whatever the world has to offer in a way that makes me indebted to you until the day I die."
Benedikt carefully inched away just a little bit from her. His eyes flickering between her closed eyes and her lips, trying to read her expression.
Her lips were slightly parted and he could feel her breathing quicken in deep, agitated gasps.
He could feel his heart thumping even louder and his fingertips prickling. He felt goosebumps going down the back of his neck.
Yumiko raised her hand, caressed his cheek and brushed along his eyes. "Oh how beautiful I must be in your eyes."
Benedikt chuckled faintly. "The most beautiful without a doubt." He turned his head and kissed the palm of her hand.
She smiled at him, a warm gentle smile that radiated her adoration and love for him.
An expression so immaculately priceless that it sent shivers down his spine. Once again, he ascertained that nothing in this world full of all the ugly and disgraceful facades would ever prevent him from letting her only experience whatever was worthy of her attention.
Neither in this cruel world nor in his life would he ever shy away from taking every necessary measurement to keep her away from all the harm.
He was willing to let everything burn down to ashes if it meant for her happiness.