Word from the palace was that the King’s pulmonary tuberculosis had persisted for ten years, typically dismissed as either a habitual chronic condition or simply poor health. The reasoning was that Healing magic—often used for minor infections and general malaise—would alleviate the symptoms, leading the royal physicians to believe the issue was resolved.
"The fact that it recurs means the underlying cause remains," Elsa explained to the assembled royal healers.
Gathering the staff of the Royal Palace, Elsa continued, "There may still be others who are infected. In those cases..."
She conducted a briefing for the senior healers that felt more like a masterclass.
"We understand. We are truly grateful for your guidance," they replied, looking at Elsa with eyes full of profound respect.
＊ ＊ ＊
On August 15th, the day after the King, his relatives, and the nation’s high-ranking officials had been cured of their tuberculosis, a procession departed the Royal Palace at 9:00 AM.
Jin and Elsa sat in an open-top carriage, surrounded by attendants and guards. Unseen by the public, the Secret Mobile Unit maintained security using Invisible magic, while five Falcon VTOL aircraft patrolled the skies. High above, a Watcher satellite monitored the terrain from orbit.
Reiko stayed glued to Jin’s side. Both Jin and Elsa were ready to deploy barriers at a moment’s notice—shields that Laojun could also trigger instantly in response to any detected threat. Every conceivable scenario had been accounted for.
Furthermore, Quinta units disguised as commoners blended into the crowd, maintaining vigilance while silently offering their blessings to the couple. Predictably, when one is this prepared, nothing happens. The carriage circled the capital of Borgia without incident.
"What’s the festival for?"
"It's a wedding celebration for the Lord of Kunlun."
"Who's that?"
While some were confused, others knew exactly who was passing by.
"So that’s the Magi Craft Meister, Jin Nidou!"
"Wasn't he the magi craftsman from Team MJR that won the Golem Boat Race last year?"
"I heard those water purifiers everyone's using are the work of him and one other person."
"I hear he's the one who first introduced topopo chips."
There were also less flattering comments.
"The bride is so lovely..."
"She's far too good for her husband."
Hearing those occasional barbs, Reiko—whose hearing was exceptionally sharp—felt a surge of irritation.
The parade completed its circuit of the capital and returned to the Royal Palace by 11:30 AM. Next on the agenda was a banquet in the Great Hall. Though chairs and sofas were available, it was primarily a standing reception. While this made for a less rigid atmosphere, it meant the couple would have to navigate a constant stream of dignitaries eager to pay their respects.
While the Great Hall was being prepared, the guests of honor shared a light meal in a reception room. At noon, Marchioness Firenziano arrived to escort them.
"Lord of Kunlun, Madam, I have come to fetch you."
Jin, Elsa, and Reiko followed her to the Great Hall.
"Presenting the Lord of Kunlun, Lord Jin Nidou; Madam Nido; and their guard, Lady Reiko!"
The announcement boomed as the doors swung open, met by a thunderous round of applause from the assembled guests.
"Just a small wave will do," Marchioness Firenziano whispered.
Jin and Elsa complied, waving modestly as they were led to the head table at the front of the room.
"Please remain standing," the Marchioness instructed quietly.
A maid handed them wine glasses. Jin had already prepared his remarks.
"We cannot thank you enough for hosting such a magnificent banquet. On behalf of my wife, Elsa, and myself, I offer our heartfelt gratitude."
"To celebrate the marriage of Lord Jin Nidou and Madam Elsa!" Prince Alphons’s voice rang out.
"Cheers!"
"Cheers!!"
Glasses were raised in unison.
"Now then, everyone," Prince Alphons continued, scanning the crowd. "While today is a celebration of Lord Jin Nidou’s marriage, I have another joyous announcement. My father, His Majesty Blitzen Skala Elias XII, has achieved a full Genesung. Or rather, he was granted a Genesung by Madam Nido!"
The King himself, seated in the place of honor, spoke up.
"Indeed. I shall never forget this debt. From this day forward, these two shall be treated as Special Honorary Citizens."
The Chancellor then provided a brief explanation of the title. It carried the prestige of a Marquis within the palace. Specifically, they were granted the right to request audiences with royalty without prior appointments and were exempted from formal acts of vassalage. They were also exempt from all feudal duties, including taxes.
"We gratefully accept," Jin said, slightly surprised by the sudden announcement. It reminded him of the Imperial Honorary Advisor title he held in the Shouro Empire.
Another wave of applause followed.
"Now then... as for his achievements..."
A succession of high-ranking nobles then began their speeches. Jin noted that those who spoke at length tended to seem the least capable, while those who were brief and concise left a far better impression.
Finally, the formal portion ended, and the guests were free to mingle. Some headed for the refreshments, while others crowded around the Prince or the Chancellor. However, the largest throng converged on Jin and Elsa.
"Lord of Kunlun, my sincerest congratulations."
"Madam Nido, you are as stunning as always."
As always? This is the first time we've met, Jin thought, biting back the retort. The line of nobles eager to leave an impression was seemingly endless. Just as Jin was reaching his limit, the crowd parted for Prince Alphons.
"Lord of Kunlun, Madam. My father was in your debt yesterday."
"Your Highness," Jin replied, finally getting a moment of peace as the other nobles backed away.
"You both look exhausted. I apologize for my countrymen's lack of restraint."
"I expected as much," Jin admitted, though he was far more drained than he had anticipated.
The brief, genuine conversation with the prince was a welcome reprieve, though the tide of dignitaries returned the moment he stepped away.
＊ ＊ ＊
Observing the situation from Hourai Island via Reiko’s reports, Laojun began formulating a plan.
At this rate, the fatigue will become too much for them. I should prepare to use the Doppels for these social obligations in the future.
＊ ＊ ＊
"..."
"..."
"Good work today, Father, Elsa-sama."
At 9:00 PM, the banquet finally concluded. Jin and Elsa were back in their suite at the First Guest House. They emerged from the bath, their hair still damp.
"That was... more than I expected," Jin sighed.
"...I agree."
"Let's just sleep."
"Mhm."
A soak in the tub hadn't been enough to wash away the mental exhaustion. The moment their heads hit the pillows, they both fell into a deep, dreamless sleep.