Gifts And Dumplings - Part Two

“Shuri-kun, let me take you out.”

That morning, I asked Shuri-kun out of the blue.

As he was setting up breakfast in the dining hall, I spoke to him abruptly.

“You’ve been doing nothing but work, haven’t you, Shuri-kun? Wouldn’t you like to stretch your legs for a change?”

Now then, will I get an OK?

This is Ecres. I’m agonizing over something right now.

The beginning of this affair dates back to about a week before I invited Shuri-kun to go out.

That night, after finishing up some easy work that had almost turned into a hobby, I somehow found myself walking toward the kitchen.

I had hoped to be alone with Shuri-kun, and maybe get some deep-fried chicken if I was lucky.

However, what I saw in the kitchen was an astonishing sight.

“What are you doing, Garn-nii-san?”

Under the dim lighting of the kitchen, Garn-nii-san was putting up a hard fight with a knife and potatoes.

Since it was midnight, it was only natural to wonder what on earth he was doing.

“Hm? Ah, Ecres. As you can see, I’m peeling potatoes.”

Potatoes? Peeling?

Near Garn-nii-san were towering piles of potatoes, a bowl for the peels, and numerous peeled potatoes rolling about.

I see, peeling practice, I convinced myself.

“Practicing until this late at night, you really are a full-fledged cook now, Nii-san.”

I said, leaning my back against the kitchen wall.

Lately, Garn-nii-san has been working really hard.

Even from an outsider’s perspective, his hard work was plain to see.

Originally a long-time intelligence officer, Nii-san was now engaged in a completely different line of work.

There were likely many things he had to learn from scratch, and much to absorb.

In the midst of that, Garn-nii-san didn’t give up and worked hard, which I thought was amazing.

“Ah, is it already that time? You see, Shuri peels potatoes at an incredible speed. It’s almost as if they were born to be peeled that way, they turn out so smooth. That’s why I want to reach that level, so I’m trying my best.”

“Don’t let those piles of potatoes go to waste, okay?”

“It’s fine, I got Shuri’s permission. He said he’d turn them into mashed potatoes tomorrow afternoon.”

“I see.”

Indeed, that dish requires a vast amount of potatoes. The potatoes Garn-nii-san peeled for practice would probably be used up all at once.

…No, maybe Shuri-kun had that in mind when he let Garn-nii-san peel the potatoes.

“…Hey, Garn-nii-san.”

“What is it?”

I decided to take the plunge and ask what I wanted to know.

“Are you enjoying your current job?”

In the past, Garn-nii-san had spied on Gings on my orders. Conversely, he was made to spy on Gings as a double agent.

I had even given him other dark commands. As his younger sister, I had made Garn-nii-san, my older brother, do all sorts of things.

That’s why I wondered how things were for him now.

“Of course, it’s very rewarding.”

Garn-nii-san said with a smile.

“Doing something for someone else’s sake. And being able to do it for someone’s smile. It’s truly a wonderful thing. On top of that, there’s a softhearted person who’s willing to teach me from scratch as an apprentice. He takes care of me in various ways, so it feels comfortable. That’s probably thanks to Shuri’s personality too. Besides, being a cook suits my nature surprisingly well. So, I’m having a lot of fun right now.”

“I see.”

While feeling relieved, I felt a sharp pain deep in my chest.

Naturally. If those words were the truth, it meant I had kept Garn-nii-san doing work he didn’t want for a long time.

Born to a concubine, persecuted, drilled with unwanted skills, and forced into unwanted work continuously.

Though I was also born to a concubine, expectations were placed on me, forcing me to disguise my gender, awakening unwanted talents, and continually forcing unwanted work upon me.

We were two of a kind.

And now, freed from that, we are both able to do what we want.

Yet, I felt a snag in my heart.

It was probably because I saw how happy Garn-nii-san looked right now. And because Gings, who used to bare his hostility so openly, was now working at his specialty with a smile.

Both of them were working jobs they desired and walking paths they desired.

But I’m different.

Ever since Shuri-kun and the others saved me, I’ve just been living as I please. My work is simple and harmless, and once it’s over, I mess with Shuri-kun, and when I’m satisfied, I sleep.

Compared to Garn-nii-san and the others, I’m far too free. Or rather, far too lazy, perhaps.

“Tch, damn it.”

As I fell into self-disgust, a curse came from Garn-nii-san.

Looking at his hands, the potato peel had snapped halfway through. It seemed he had failed at peeling.

If it were Shuri-kun, he’d produce a peel cleanly connected in one long strip.

“The knife’s edge has dulled… and my hand movement isn’t right either. One more time.”

Reflecting on it, Garn-nii-san started peeling again. Starting from the middle, he concentrated on not failing this time.

Come to think of it, Garn-nii-san doesn’t have his own cooking tools… his own kitchen knife.

Shuri-kun has many tools of his own. I heard everything except the kitchen knife was made by Rir. As for the knife… I believe that was a gift from Princess Tebis.

Considering that… relying on kitchen knives kept as shared equipment might hinder Garn-nii-san’s training.

Right, come to think of it, we siblings have never given each other gifts.

Not for birthdays, not for celebrations, and not for any commemorations.

Given the distance between us, it was natural, but still.

…I’ll give him one, a kitchen knife.

I don’t know why I thought of it, but I decided to give him a kitchen knife.

The reason doesn’t matter. I want to be of help to Garn-nii-san.

“Well then, Garn-nii-san, don’t stay up too late working hard.”

“Yeah, of course. Good night.”

After speaking to Garn-nii-san, I returned to my room.

Then, the next day, I commissioned a kitchen knife from a blacksmith workshop I knew.

Just a single blade, with an easy-to-use shape and a sharp edge.

Sparing no expense, I decided to prepare it for Garn-nii-san.

And several days passed. The knife was scheduled to be finished today.

Thinking about going to pick it up… somehow, I suddenly felt shy.

After all, giving a gift to a family member to encourage them in their work was something I’d never done once.

It was somewhat embarrassing, and my face felt like it would turn bright red.

That said, not going to pick it up was out of the question, and going alone was too embarrassing.

Contemplating such things, as I agonized over it in the dining hall that morning…

I happened to catch sight of Shuri-kun.

That was why I impulsively asked him.

And now, here we are.

I was inviting Shuri-kun out.

“What do you say, Shuri-kun?”

“Sounds great. I’d love to accompany you.”

Shuri-kun answered after thinking for a short moment.

“Yay! Conveniently enough, there’s something I wanted to buy.”

“Oh? Something you want to buy, is it?”

At that point, Shuri-kun made an overtly troubled face.

Ah, I see.

“Ah, it’s nothing like being a luggage carrier or anything like that. I just felt lonely going by myself, so I thought I’d go with someone.”

I’m not like that, but shopping for women takes time. Since they enjoy the process of choosing, they end up selecting this and that while completely forgetting the person with them.

Nodding along and staying with them without complaining is a man’s worth… or so it’s said.

Shuri-kun, making such a troubled, reluctant face like that is out!

“In that case, didn’t you invite Garn-san? If Garn-san says he wants time off, I’ll give him permission.”

Shuri-kun said as if suddenly remembering.

Hmm, normally I would ask Garn-nii-san, but…

“No, no, this shopping trip actually involves Garn-nii-san.”

“…Ah, I see.”

Oh, Shuri-kun, usually so insensitive, actually picked up on it. That helps speed things up.

“Did you get it?”

“I got it.”

“Then I’ll go get ready, so let me meet you in an hour!”

“Ah, wait!”

Shuri-kun tried to stop me in a panic, but I ignored him and left the dining hall.

Dashing out without even eating, I burst into my room.

My face was bright red as I clutched my chest.

My face is burning, and my heart is pounding so fast.

I just invited him on a whim, but could this be…!?

“Waa, waa, waa… Did I just invite him on a date!?”

Yes, when I think about it, it’s a date. A man and a woman going shopping together—this is already a date!

“Ah! I have to pick out clothes to wear!”

In a panic, I turned my closet inside out to pull out items and select an outfit.

What would be good? Should I choose manly clothes like usual?

Or should I surprise him with girlish clothes?

No, my knowledge about girlish clothes is thin.

After all, I’ve always worn men’s clothes! It can’t be helped!

I have to look for clothes, select accessories, and apply makeup!

Ah! Why on earth did I specify such a short time frame like an hour!?

Cursing my own carelessness, my search for clothes continued.

Taking my time, I somehow picked out clothes, found accessories, and just as I started applying makeup, a knock echoed at the door.

Who is it? At a time like this.

“Ecres-saaann, are you thereee?”

Geh, Shuri-kun!? Why are you here?!

“It’s about time, so why don’t we head out togetherrr?”

Ha! Is it already that time!? I haven’t even finished my makeup yet! I haven’t even finished checking my accessories!

Flustered, I called out to Shuri-kun, who was probably outside the door.

“Sh-Shuri-kun! In cases like this, men and women should leave separately, yes!”

“Huh? No, no, leaving together seems more efficient…”

A perplexed voice came from Shuri-kun outside.

Wait, efficient? In this date where I’m wagering the gamble of a lifetime, efficiency?

What an unromantic person.

Frowning, I spoke toward the outside of the door.

“Shuri-kun! Don’t you know that girls value the proper atmosphere!?”

“Eh? That… I understand, yeah.”

Ah, that monotone voice means he doesn’t understand at all.

“Listen here! Girls value the atmosphere at times like this! You shouldn’t say things like ‘efficient’!”

“Ah, right.”

“You see, for things like this, leaving together isn’t the way; meeting up at a classic spot is the best!”

“Is that so… Understood. So, where should I wait?”

“Let’s see, let’s make it the fountain in the central plaza. The atmosphere is nice there, and it’s prominent, making it easy to meet up. Could you go ahead first?”

“Understood. Then I’ll be waiting.”

With those final words, the sound of footsteps receding outside the room could be heard.

When they could no longer be heard, I let out a sigh of relief despite myself.

“Thank goodness~…”

With this, I can buy some time! I have to finish my makeup while I can. And I have to try on the clothes too.

Ah, there’s not enough time! No matter how much I have, it’s not enough!

Within the limited time, I desperately racked my brain to dress up.

By the time I finished preparing and left the castle, a considerable amount of time had passed.

“Oh no, I wonder if Shuri-kun is angry?”

I want to hurry, but if I run too much, sweat will seep through and ruin my makeup.

Walking as fast as possible while keeping my exertion to a level where I wouldn’t sweat, I headed toward the fountain in the central plaza.

The time had reached the point where the sun was approaching its zenith. In other words, I had spent time dressing up from morning until right now.

Of course, an ordinary person would be kept waiting for quite a while, so they’d be angry.

I hope Shuri-kun isn’t tired of waiting and angry.

Feeling anxious like that, I reached the fountain in the central plaza.

Various people were here, and many were chatting together.

Some were waiting like me, some were taking a break to rest, and some were heading off somewhere—all sorts of people.

Now then, amidst all this, is my waiting partner here?

Even as I thought that, I found him immediately.

How should I put it, Shuri-kun was standing there with a slightly troubled expression, oblivious to his surroundings.

I don’t know what he was worrying about, but it seems my waiting partner was indeed there. What a relief. If it were me, I would have gotten angry and left after being kept waiting this long.

As expected, Shuri-kun is kind.

However, just this once, I shouldn’t take advantage of that kindness.

As a decent person, keeping someone waiting for a long time after making an appointment to meet up is bad form.

I need to reflect on this.

For now, shall I speak to him? I approached Shuri-kun.

“Shuri-kun?”

Then, Shuri-kun looked over here with a surprised face.

“Hm? What’s wrong?”

However, from that point on, Shuri-kun inexplicably froze.

“Ah, no, it’s nothing.”

Shuri-kun tried to patch things up with an innocent look.

Then, he stared at me intently from head to toe.

How rare for that dense Shuri-kun to inspect a girl like this.

And then, Shuri-kun made a face as if he had realized something.

“Ecres-san… by any chance, this gift…”

“Eh? E-Erm, well.”

A-Ah? Did I put too much effort into it and cause a misunderstanding?

This is bad in its own right~, I thought to myself.

Even Shuri-kun must realize this is a date—

“Judging from those high-quality clothes… are you going to give the gift you buy to someone you’re in a romantic relationship with after this?”

“…Pardon?”

He doesn’t think so at all, this guy!

“You said it was a gift for Garn-san, asked me for advice on gifts since I’m a guy, and after parting with me, you’ll meet up with your lover… I see, if that’s the case— Bupaf!?”

At the string of insensitive words Shuri-kun reeled off, I delivered a fist of fury.

I struck his collarbone, a human vital spot I heard about from Garn-nii-san that causes severe pain without causing critical symptoms.

Shuri-kun crouched down while writhing in agony. Naturally, since I punched him for real.

“Shuri-kun. I knew you were kind and dense, but I think those words were terribly lacking in delicacy.”

“S-Shorry…”

When a girl dresses up for the boy she fancies, having it attributed to someone else is like having all her efforts completely denied.

I worried and worked hard for Shuri-kun’s sake, so why do I have to hear that it’s for someone else?

I think my anger can be understood.

“S-So, the real intention behind that outfit is?”

And you can understand why that anger doubled, too!

“Shuri-kun, do you want to take another strike?”

“Eh?! Ah, I’m sorry! Right, of course! When going shopping with a man, a woman can’t let her guard down no matter who he is!”

When I raised my fist, Shuri-kun immediately apologized.

It seems he understood a little bit.

“Yes, passing mark.”

So I lowered my fist. The fist I had raised with the intention of shattering his collarbone, I lowered with a calm heart.

“That’s right, a girl goes all out when going out with a boy.”

I tossed out words to Shuri-kun that were half true and half lie.

If it were a guy I didn’t care about, I’d just dress up to about eighty percent so as not to be looked down upon.

However, if it’s the person I fancy or a situation I can’t afford to lose, I’d pour in over one hundred percent—twelve percent—to make the other person look my way.

I wonder if Shuri-kun can understand this? Even though I chose carefully and dressed up with all my heart.

A tunic made of fine fabric with a simple pattern, and a long skirt that felt neat despite appearing plain at first glance.

My hair, which I usually left untamed, was held together by a headband with silver flower work, and I even wore simple earrings I don’t normally wear.

Even my makeup was made natural to match.

If he didn’t notice this or said it was for someone else, I’d be depressed for a week.

“So? How’s my fashion?”

Since I’m at it, I’d like to hear Shuri-kun’s thoughts too.

How is it? What will he say?

After agonizing immensely, Shuri-kun said with a refreshing face:

“I think it suits you very well. Your feminine charm has increased more than usual.”

“Fails as a compliment, but oh well. I’ll give you a borderline passing score.”

Feminine charm… I was a fool to expect a witty line from Shuri-kun, damn it!

Concluding that explaining any further to Shuri-kun was pointless, I decided to head to our destination together with him.

Our destination was the blacksmith shop where I ordered the gift for Garn-nii-san. It was located on Artisan Street, west of the fountain plaza.

That place could be called the heart of Sunity… a somewhat grand structure built to house craftsmen.

Craftsmen are an indispensable breed for a nation or territory. People who develop new techniques, master their nation’s unique skills, and exercise their craft are each essential personnel to a country.

Therefore, we had to improve their treatment to keep them in the nation, spreading their techniques and exercising their skills.

For example, carpenters in the country of winter can build highly airtight structures to keep cold air out. In the country of autumn, they possess rich knowledge regarding edible and inedible ingredients.

Such human resources… intellectual resources are irreplaceable to a nation.

Thus, to protect such people, I promoted the construction of this street and built it as promised.

Thanks to this, the number of craftsmen leaving decreased, which really helped.

“Ecres-san, this town is beautiful.”

Shuri-kun looked around and offered such a thought. He looked excited, and hearing him say that made me happy too. After all, it was a major project I planned and executed myself.

Still, though…

“Is it? Maybe because I’m used to seeing it, but I only see the flaws. The building materials are getting old, the deterioration of public structures is noticeable, it’s about time to pave the roads with cobblestones, we need to manage the merchant gatherings or they’ll build shops however they please, public order is currently disrupted so I want to recruit guards, and if we raise their proficiency, the surrounding geography—”

“Stop! Stop right there, I won’t understand any more than that.”

Shuri-kun hurriedly came to stop me.

Oops, my bad. I was thinking about work. That won’t do, when it’s a date I went through all this trouble for.

“Come on, Ecres-san. Let me forget about work and enjoy today, okay?”

“Eh? Ah, yeah, thank you, Shuri-kun.”

Was I suddenly being worried about by Shuri-kun?

He was caring for me with a gentle expression.

“You’re somehow very kind, Shuri-kun.”

“I am always kind. Kind, indeed.”

“Shuri-kun, you’re not thinking of anything bad, are you? What are you plotting with that fake smile?”

For this dense guy—as if molded out of magi-engineering combining insensitivity and thick-headedness—to suddenly display concern as if reading a woman’s heart, there must be something going on.

It’s a gentle face, but it looks like he forced it quite a bit. What is he thinking?

When I pointed that out, Shuri-kun showed a slightly surprised face.

…Ah, since he went to the trouble of worrying about me, maybe I should have just accepted his kindness. Seeing his surprised face naturally generated a sense of guilt.

Still, Shuri-kun has a history of various offenses.

“Nothing at all.”

Hm? For Shuri-kun, that was a natural response without any awkwardness.

In times like this, Shuri-kun usually panics and lets something slip…

I’m really hopeless. I’m falling into paranoia. I shouldn’t doubt Shuri-kun’s kindness.

“So Ecres-san, where are we heading now? You say it’s a gift for Garn-san, but what is it?”

While I was reflecting on myself, Shuri-kun asked me that.

Ah, right, come to think of it, I hadn’t told him, had I?

“Ah, right. I thought it might be time for Garn-nii-san to have that, so I’m going to buy it. I hope there’s a good one.”

I deliberately kept it vague to leave him some room to think. Well, Shuri-kun would probably instantly figure out what a cook needs around now.

Let’s make it… something to look forward to upon arrival.

Walking while engaging in light small talk, I invited Shuri-kun to our destination.

“Here we are.”

The place I led him to was the shop where I ordered the kitchen knife. It was a well-known workshop around here. It was also a shop I frequented.

Several days ago, when I came to order it, the thought of giving a gift to Garn-nii-san took precedence, and I ordered it so mechanically that I didn’t know why I ordered it so routinely.

Was I influenced by seeing Garn-nii-san work hard?

Did I feel guilty about my own lack of seriousness compared to Garn-nii-san’s earnestness?

I don’t know right now. Even so, the feeling of wanting to give a gift was not a lie.

Shuri-kun was looking at the kitchen knives lined up. He looked very interested.

“Ecres-san, here is…”

“Well, there’s no mistaking it’s a shop dealing in blades, but strictly speaking, it’s a local blacksmith shop. They process iron to make products… is how you could put it. You know how large shops often have iron craftsmanship forming their symbol mark as decoration? Those are also the work of shops like this.”

When I answered, Shuri-kun nodded in agreement.

It’s easy to misunderstand, but blacksmiths don’t just make weapons. They also make iron crafts from items necessary for daily life.

This shop makes weapons too, but it primarily produces daily necessities. Kitchen knives, pots, and the like.

Therefore, it was the perfect place to order a kitchen knife, an item for daily use.

“Sure, in this day and age, if you ask a Magi-Technician, they might make it right away. But only a few people can do that. You either have the talent to do it yourself, or the money to commission it. However, the blacksmiths aren’t losing either. Without relying on magi-engineering, they make various things with their own skill, knowledge, and experience. It’s a wonderful thing.”

Even if the number of Magi-Technicians themselves is small, if magi-engineering advances, there is a possibility that cultures relying on experience and oral tradition will fade away.

However, they handle iron and master heat. Surely they will survive no matter what era comes.

Even for work that would end quickly if requested of a Magi-Technician, they finish it carefully over time.

Seeing that, I think my worries were just groundless fears.

“Do you like this kind of thing, Ecres-san?”

Shuri-kun asked with interest.

“Yeah. I often visited construction sites for territorial development or went to the workshops of blacksmiths I commissioned work from. The work of people with specialized skills concentrated in one area is beautiful and fun to watch.”

Really, seeing this kind of thing gets me excited. This area might be the un-girlish part of me.

“Ecres-san, it’s great to be excited, but could we get to the main point soon?”

“Ah, right. Sorry, when I come to places like this, I really never get tired of watching all day.”

I was called out by Shuri-kun. Yeah, watching this all day really isn’t suitable for a date at all. I need to reflect on this.

Looking at the shop, I searched for the receptionist.

“Excuse me. Do you have a moment?”

This female receptionist was the same person who handled my sudden visit several days ago.

“E-Ecres-sama!?”

And back then, she was just as surprised as she is now.

“Ah, is the item I requested ready?”

“A-Ah, yes. Of course. Forgive me for losing my composure.”

“Don’t worry about it. Maybe I should have sent word before coming.”

That’s right, I surprised them by coming here suddenly several days ago too.

Even back then, I thought I should send word before coming next time, but my head was filled with thoughts of Shuri-kun and I forgot. I must reflect on this.

“No, we are deeply indebted to you, Ecres-sama. There is no shop in this town that would refuse your visit.”

“Hearing you say that helps. I’m practically half-retired at this point anyway.”

“No, we still want you in the central administration as always, Ecres-sama. Even if the lord changes, our gratitude to you will not change. It is because you are here that we remain without abandoning this territory.”

Ah… the receptionist is glaring at Shuri-kun…

That’s right, many people around here don’t think well of Shuri-kun and the others. Even though I followed up on it. I’m at a loss.

In that state, no matter who stood at the top, it would have been a problem. Gings who caused the problem, and me who couldn’t stop it. Whichever of us inherited the lord’s seat, friction would arise somewhere.

Then, there was no choice but to entrust it to Gungrave, who posed the least problem.

‘A great man who, even when his subordinate was unjustly captured and he was dragged into territorial troubles, retrieved his subordinate and settled the matter.’ Under such propaganda, Gings and I entrusted everything to Gungrave.

In the first place, we couldn’t navigate the upcoming period of warring states. It was better to leave it to someone who had experienced the battlefield and possessed abundant talent.

To be sure, I think this method involved considerable recklessness. Entrusting the entire mess of a territory to a mere mercenary band leader. If luck had been even slightly worse, this territory would have ended up in dire straits.

However, seeing Shuri-kun’s cooking and personality, and considering Gungrave’s military exploits and past career, I think this was the only way. If Gungrave had possessed any misconduct in his behavior, we would have had to do something at the risk of our lives. And eight times out of ten, we would have failed and lost our lives.

A bad gamble… but we won that gamble. Casting aside all past shackles, we succeeded in entrusting everything to him.

Therefore, looking only at the results, I won the gamble.

However, among the feudal subjects, there are naturally those who are not convinced.

Even after establishing a suitable lord and preserving the bloodline of the feudal lord’s family, there are still people who cannot accept it.

We have no choice but to let those people understand, little by little.

That’s what I think.

“Well, let’s leave that talk for now. More importantly, as I asked earlier, is the requested item ready?”

“Yes. It is right here.”

The receptionist also understands there’s no point in saying any more, so she immediately returns to the back of the shop.

Right, it’s already been decided, and authority as lord has already shifted to Gungrave. No matter what is said now, nothing can be done.

The receptionist brought out an item wrapped in silk from the back of the shop.

Receiving the silk-wrapped item, I unwrapped it and pulled out the contents.

A single kitchen knife. With a plain wood handle and the luster of freshly forged iron, it will surely be a help to Garn-nii-san from now on.

Faintly visible wavy temper lines, a blade forged and ground without distortion.

Yep, this is a fine piece. It was worth paying high money for.

“Thank you. Send the bill to the castle as usual. I’ll transfer the money.”

“Yes, thank you very much. We look forward to your next visit.”

The receptionist bowed deeply.

“Thank you. Shuri-kun, let’s go.”

Replying to her, I started walking. Shuri-kun hurriedly chased after me too.

“Was that your objective? The kitchen knife?”

Shuri-kun asked while looking at the knife with deep interest. As expected of a cook, he has an eye for cooking utensils.

I rewrapped the kitchen knife in the silk cloth and answered.

“That’s right. It’s a gift for Garn-nii-san.”

“…”

“Garn-nii-san found a new way of living. The path of a cook. Gings also decided to reexamine himself and start over. As for me, I decided to live as I please.

For the brother who followed me until now… no, who supported me, this is the least bit of gratitude and encouragement for the future that I can offer.“

Yes, gratitude and encouragement. This is the very least payback I can manage.

For assigning him painful missions until now, this is the least payback I can offer.

With this, will Garn-nii-san be able to work hard?

Because cooking is a different field, I can’t offer advice or help. All I can do is hand over a good item like this.

How will he receive this consideration from me?

Contrary to my inner thoughts, Shuri-kun seemed to be agonizing over something.

And after agonizing and agonizing, he finally made a face as if everything clicked.

“Was my assumption that you were meeting a date actually just my misunderstanding…?”

“You’re still dragging that out?!”

I delivered a divine punishment collarbone strike to him. Reflect on yourself!

After that, I gave Shuri-kun a long, endless lecture.

Namely, he doesn’t understand a woman’s heart.

Namely, his speech and actions are far too hasty.

Namely, his insensitivity knows no bounds.

Namely, he needs to fix his dense nature once and for all.

The list could go on endlessly, but I endlessly lectured Shuri-kun on all the parts that had frustrated me until now.

And when a considerable amount of time had passed, I wrapped up the topic and spoke.

“I’m getting hungry, so shall we head back soon?”

I said with a nonchalant look.

After all, with a woman complaining to a man in the middle of town, people around us were probably giving us strange looks.

So, to convey to the surroundings that it was over, I put on a perfectly ordinary face.

The people around who were watching with amusement scattered with a feeling of “It’s over, huh.”

“Yes. Understood.”

As for Shuri-kun, he was completely drooping after hearing the lecture.

The double punch of collarbone pain and the hardship of the lecture. It would be nice if he reflected on this.

Even so, his perception is far too poor!

Shuri-kun probably doesn’t even realize we’re on a date!

…Realization, huh. I wonder if I can talk about others.

“What’s the matter, Ecres-san? You have a gloomy look on your face.”

“Ah… so you noticed after all.”

As expected of Shuri-kun. Even though my feelings only wavered slightly, he noticed immediately.

Shuri-kun excels at reading people’s feelings. Though his romantic awareness remains that of an insensitive fool!

However… it’s because he’s kind that he immediately worries and calls out to me.

“Well, I was just thinking about my own words from earlier. Garn-nii-san is working hard on a new path. Gings is working hard to start over. But I’m just living as I please. I wonder if it’s really okay for me to stay like this.”

“Ecres-san.”

“No, it’s fine. Shuri-kun, it’s fine. This is just something I’m worrying about on my own. Looking at it another way, all three of us are walking the paths we desired. It would be strange for only me to worry.”

“That’s…”

Weak words I blurted out despite myself.

Both my older brother and younger brother have found their paths and are walking them.

Yet I have nothing. I haven’t been able to find anything.

Looking at Shuri-kun is one thing, but that’s a different matter. In my own life, I haven’t been able to find a… role of sorts.

That was why I couldn’t help but envy them for finding that and pursuing it wholeheartedly, and they appeared so dazzling to me.

“Ecres-san. Are you going to hand that kitchen knife to Garn-san right away?”

“Eh? No… I was thinking of giving it to him after Nii-san finishes his work…”

“Then please wait in your room for a little bit.”

Pardon!?

Displaying a super-express development even faster than usual, Shuri-kun sprinted away from the spot.

We had returned to the front of the castle, but I was left standing alone at the gate.

Eh… surely this isn’t happening.

Leaving a girl behind, what on earth is he…

Just kidding. It’s Shuri-kun. What he’s going to do is clear.

What will he feed me this time?

Looking forward to it a little, I returned to the castle.

---

“So, these are those ‘dumplings’?”

Just as Shuri-kun said, while I waited quietly in my room, Shuri-kun brought me food.

It was around evening, when the light outside was dimming.

This dish was apparently made with the cooperation of Gings and Garn-nii-san.

Ah, so that’s why. That’s why Garn-nii-san and Gings are here.

Because it’s a dish they were involved in, they want to hear my thoughts on the taste at the end.

“Yes, please go ahead and try them.”

“Hmm, I don’t know what you’re thinking, but I’ll try them for now.”

Receiving the plate of dumplings and a fork from Shuri-kun, I immediately took one.

Popping one into my mouth at random, I chewed.

“Mmm… it’s delicious.”

It’s delicious. Yes, it’s something delicious.

The outer wrapper is crispy, and the filling inside is cooked through and juicy. I can tell it’s meat and vegetables.

The meat juice and vegetable flavor trapped inside the outer wrapper burst in my mouth with every bite.

The savoriness of the meat juice and the flavor of the vegetables… the sweetness that serves as proof of being well-cooked is in harmony.

To think there are several more of these. This is something to look forward to.

At that point, I put another one into my mouth. Thinking it would be the savoriness of meat and vegetables again… a different texture spread in my mouth.

“Hmm? This one is somewhat different… a strong aroma of Chinese chives… and this one has no meat texture at all…”

Finding it strange, I put another dumpling into my mouth, and there was yet another texture.

The former dumpling was one with a strong scent of Chinese chives.

Vegetables… these are scallions and Chinese chives… this unique aroma.

The meat also seemed to have some effort put into it, tasting different from the first dumpling.

They probably changed the meat to match the scent of Chinese chives and scallions. The scent of Chinese chives doesn’t become unpleasant; on the contrary, it becomes a praiseworthy characteristic.

It’s a scent that might concern a woman slightly, though.

As for the latter dumpling… it had no meat feeling at all. No taste of fat whatsoever.

The flavor of vegetables and the broth matched with them soaked in, making it delicious.

It’s light and brings out the flavor of the vegetables well… I prefer this one.

“Yes, the variation is rich, and it’s very delicious. Every single one is top quality.”

“This one was made by Garn-san.”

“This misshapen one?”

“And this one was made by Gings-san.”

“Mmm, the shape of this one is better, but the amount of filling inside is inconsistent.”

The two dumplings Shuri-kun pointed out.

Garn-nii-san’s had a good balance of filling inside, but the appearance was misshapen. Compared to Shuri-kun’s, it inevitably seemed that way.

Gings’s looked perfect on the outside, but when split open, the amount of filling inside was erratic. It felt like he prioritized appearance without caring about the filling inside.

“But they were all delicious, right?”

“Yeah, they were delicious. Regardless of the shape, it seems they were made for my sake.”

The two of them had been glancing over at me for a while now.

Whether it was because they were relieved by the taste of the food… it felt different this time.

It seems I made them worry.

“…Ecres-san. I was thinking. Dumplings are delicious no matter what shape or filling they have. There are far more varieties than this, after all. Garn-san found the path of a cook. Gings-san chose and advanced along the path of starting over. No matter the shape or content, that way of living has conviction and is beautiful. Ecres-san, I understand that you are lost on your path.”

Lost on my path.

That’s right, I was lost on my path. Garn-nii-san and Gings, who worked with pride and purpose, looked enviable to me.

At the same time, I felt lost in my own way of living, which didn’t feel like it was moving forward.

“Why don’t you confide your worries to these two important family members who are already walking down their paths?”

At Shuri-kun’s words, I felt as if my head had been struck.

At the words that I hadn’t confided my worries to my family.

We had lived in a complicated environment.

Though there was family affection, it was an environment where we couldn’t rely on each other honestly.

It was a time when people around us would take advantage if we didn’t remain vigilant toward each other.

But that’s no longer the case. The time of discord is over. It should be fine to rely, to lean on them, or to be relied upon.

Yet, I’m bottling it up alone again.

This is just reverting to the past.

“Up until now, the three of you might have had your hands full with your own matters. As a result, you developed the habit of managing things alone. You acquired the ability to somehow pull through on your own. I don’t think there’s any need to worry alone anymore. Now that the three of you can gather like this, why not speak frankly?”

Speak frankly from now on, huh?

“Besides, as I think you realized from eating the dumplings, every dumpling was delicious. In that same way, whatever path you choose, Ecres-san, it will surely be a wonderful path. Just like dumplings are delicious as dumplings. Ecres-san is Ecres-san. That’s why I can trust you.”

Whatever path I choose will be a wonderful path.

Does Shuri-kun think that way? Does he trust me that much?

Thinking about that makes my back itch. It somehow feels itchy. Shyness makes it itch.

Still, it makes me somewhat happy. That he thinks of me that way.

When I thought about saying something to Shuri-kun, he was about to leave the room.

“Please discuss the rest among the three of you. We made a massive batch, after all. Why don’t the three of you pick at them while talking about the many things you usually can’t talk about?”

Saying so, Shuri-kun left.

We who remained fell into an indescribable atmosphere.

All of us were about to say something, but couldn’t say anything.

In the frustrating atmosphere, I cast my eyes down at the plate I held in my hand.

Since we made a large batch, eat it among the three of you.

…I see… Shuri-kun understood.

If we tried to talk normally, given everything up until now, we wouldn’t be able to speak honestly.

So he told us to use the food as an excuse to start talking.

It’s consideration typical of Shuri-kun.

“Garn-nii-san, Gings. Since we’re at it, shall we eat?”

“…Ah, got it.”

“Let’s do that.”

Garn-nii-san and Gings brought over chairs, sat down, and began eating dumplings.

“This is delicious. Though Shuri prepared all the ingredients inside.”

“Yeah. But… Nii-ki… your piece, well, like Ane-ki said, the shape is bad.”

“Shut up. Yours has a chaotic amount of filling inside. This one barely has anything in it.”

Though the two argued as they spoke, they somehow seemed to be enjoying it.

Come to think of it, isn’t this the first time Gings has called us sister and brother?

Sister, huh. Being called that again feels somewhat embarrassing.

“Shuri said so. He said it would be perfect if there were sauce.”

“Huh? Is this not complete as it is?”

“According to Shuri, he wanted to make a sauce to go with this. But he said he lacks his ideal ingredients. I can’t imagine it at all.”

“Shuri’s ideal sauce, huh. Indeed, I can’t imagine it. I wonder what kind of rare delicacy it would be…”

Saying so, we began to talk bit by bit.

Talking like this made me realize that we knew far too little about one another.

“I prefer these Chinese chive ones. I originally like food with a nice aroma.”

“I like these ordinary dumplings. Simple and delicious. I like things like this.”

We didn’t even know each other’s food preferences.

“By the way, Gings, leaving me aside, you’re the head of military affairs, so isn’t it about time you found a partner? You mentioned before that you like women like Princess Tebis. Not her age, but her sharp intellect.”

“Shut up. Mind your own business. You’re the one who came out into the light, Nii-ki, so get married to a woman normally. By order of age, you’re first, Nii-ki.”

“I’m going to take it easy from now on, advance along the path of a cook, and fall in love normally, so I’m fine.”

We didn’t know each other’s taste in women either.

“Ah, but lately I haven’t done horseback riding or swordsmanship practice, so my body has gotten quite dull. I need to train again.”

“Did you like that kind of thing?”

“I like swordsmanship and horseback riding practice more than domestic affairs or paperwork. It’s a hobby, a hobby.”

“I don’t really get it. I’ve come to enjoy cooking. It combines hobby and practical benefit.”

We didn’t even know each other’s hobbies.

We were made to realize that we didn’t know about one another.

I see, so this is what it means to speak frankly. Shuri-kun, I understand now.

“I prefer Shuri-kun, and my hobby is board games, so as long as I have an opponent, I’m fine. Card games and War Shogi… I hope someone will play against me for the first time in a while.”

“Why don’t you have Shuri play against you? You can deepen your interaction that way too.”

“I wonder if Shuri-kun would play those with me?”

Thus, we spoke desperately, trying to talk about many things.

Though we were siblings who hadn’t interacted until now, I felt like we had finally managed to regain the form of a family.

What is this? It feels like a very warm sensation.

Though the former lord… Father isn’t here, is this the warmth of a family?

No, it must be.

“Ane-ki. Speaking of which, you mentioned you were wondering what to do, right?”

“Eh? Yeah.”

Being suddenly addressed by Gings, I was honestly bewildered.

“What are you actually doing right now, practically speaking?”

“Eh? …Well… Handing off and supervising the remaining domestic affairs… and summarizing our relations with surrounding countries into a book…”

“No, Ane-ki. You should just be a diplomat, Ane-ki.”

Eh? A diplomat?

“Honestly, it’s something I couldn’t do. Gungrave is a guy who can basically do anything, but even if he’s entrusted with this territory, there are people who won’t be convinced by it, right?”

That was something I understood even by going into town. The blacksmith treated me with that attitude out of concern for me, but deep down, they didn’t hold good feelings toward Gungrave and the others, who appeared to have usurped the country.

I see, that applies to surrounding countries as well.

The relationships I built with surrounding countries until now will also change. Among them, some might think of ill intentions.

So the idea is for me to become a diplomat and align our relationships with surrounding countries and nations we’ll deal with in the future.

“I see, I might be able to do that.”

After all, surrounding countries still think of me as a man in some respects. Or rather, since I interacted with them as a man until now, it’s only natural.

Diplomacy, huh? In that case…

“I’ll do it. Then, I’ll be a diplomat.”

“That’s good. Ecres has always been eloquent. Your appearance is good too, so people are unlikely to hold ill feelings toward you.”

“I have my own things to do, so I’ll leave it to you. Besides, we can’t keep having Gungrave do this and that, everything by himself forever.”

The two of them agreed with me too.

I was finally able to feel relieved. To think that having my task decided could bring this much peace of mind.

Then, there are things I must do.

Whether regarding relations with surrounding countries or Sunity’s future.

There are problems that must be settled.

“Leave it to me. And also… about that person.”

When I spoke, their faces stiffened.

Just from the words “that person,” both of them probably realized who I meant.

Just as expected. About that person imprisoned in the castle’s dungeon.

“…Ane-ki, please. At least spare her life.”

Gings lowered his head. With a pained expression.

“Even so, she’s my mother.”

I know. The cause of this commotion, someone who will surely become a seed of discord if left like this.

Gings’s mother… the lawful wife of the former lord.

Captured at the hands of Princess Tebis, we are currently at a loss as to how to deal with her.

“I’ll try my best… so that it doesn’t end badly. It’s a promise.”

“…Sorry.”

Gings looked truly apologetic.

I have to bring an end to it. For the future of this territory.

And for Gings’s sake too.

Afterward.

I handed the kitchen knife to Garn-nii-san and expressed my gratitude once more.

I hope he works hard from now on. He’s finally able to calmly do what he wants to do, after all.

I’ll do what I have to do.

For the sake of my precious younger brother too.