Volume 6 Chapter 16 Good Relationships Nourish The Heart
Let's leave Rouza aside for now.
"So, how was the relationship between Getsuya and you? Even though he was hiding his identities, it seemed like you were seriously going at each other while recognizing each other."
"...I was serious, but my brother was probably holding back. Looking back, his sword didn't have any killing intent."
This wasn't a topic to bring up casually. Mikage looked visibly down, and I receivedd reproachful glances from Kyunei and Aina.
"It's okay, both of you. It's probably better to talk about my brother as well."
As she reassured the girls, Mikage shook her head and regained her composure.
"Receiving the Kaiden license means Getsuya is quite skilled with a sword, right?"
"Definitely. Among our peers, only my brother has received the Kaiden approval."
Mikage's father, who is the master of the Shiraha Dojo, said that she had not yet reached had not reached that level at the age of Getsuya. It is certain that the Shiraha family has some of the most talented individuals in its history.
The Shiraha family originally had a strong trust among the subordinates of the Egawa family, and they always bravely led the way in battles during times of war. The reason they opened a swordsmanship dojo was because they disliked the political struggles that followed the end of the long war and the pacification of the Egawa family, so they withdrew from politics.
However, their connection with the Egawa family is still strong, and they are occasionally valued as a trusted advisor as a third party. Although they cannot directly involve themselves in politics, their opinions cannot be ignored. It is said that when a child of the shogun family learns swordsmanship, they are always sent to the Shiraha Swordsmanship Dojo. This is how Rouza started attending the Shiraha Dojo.
"As I mentioned before, I left my hometown due to an unwanted engagement and my admiration for the Brave. However, the first time I held a sword was just imitating my big brother."
"Usually, when starting something, it's not that different, right?"
Pretend play gradually takes on a clear form. Mikage also nodded.
"I think my big brother and I were close at least when we were young. However, I don't really know what happened in the few years before I left home. It seems that my decision to become a swordsman didn't sit well with my father."
"Was your big brother in favor of Mikage and Rouza-san's marriage?"
"Probably... but we didn't really have the opportunity to talk about that. Besides, my big brother wasn't one to talk much."
Is that so? He seemed to have interrupted quite a bit when talking to Rouza. While it may have been unbearable for him when I unintentionally showed disrespect to his lord, that's just how it goes.
"I became the head guard just before leaving home, but my siblings and I had been in a position similar to serving under Rouza-sama even before that. Well, Rouza-sama had been quite mischievous back then, and both my brother and I were constantly being led by him."
Mikage, who was speaking, had a smile on her face, indicating that at least the memories from that time were not bad.
"Looking back now, was Father planning to marry me off to Rouza-sama from that time?"
"What was Mikage actually thinking about him?"
"I had a very strong perception of him being a 'difficult brother.' It was impossible to think of him as an engagement partner..."
It was straightforward and decisive. Before I could feel joy from the question, I felt sorry for Rouza. Mikage's expression showed no hesitation. Kyunei and Aina seemed to share similar feelings, both with half-smiles.
"It's been three years since we last met, but it seems like his skills have improved significantly compared to back then. I thought I had gained experience during my travels and in the royal capital, but I couldn't keep up in our recent encounter.
It looked like you were putting up a good fight, but I managed to swallow the words that were about to come out. Among us, Mikage is the most experienced in real combat. If she acknowledges it, no amount of clumsy consolation from outsiders will suffice.
Suddenly, Mikage let out a chuckle.
"However, despite feeling frustrated, I also feel relieved."
"Perhaps it's because you were able to meet your brother, whom you share blood with, after a long time?"
"Of course, that's part of it... but his sword has always been my admiration."
While scratching her head in a troubled manner, Mikage smiled shyly.
"Although it's become a situation where our differences are starkly highlighted, I can't help but feel happy that he has become stronger than before."
Actually, are you a big fan of your big brother? You want your admired big brother to always be strong, right?
"----(Hug)"
Kyunei slowly stood up and embraced Mikage, burying her in her ample chest.
"Um... Kyunei? Why are you suddenly hugging me?"
"Mikage, you're really cute and a good girl. This big sister got a little carried away."
As Kyunei affectionately stroked her head, Mikage, with her face halfway buried, was left to her own devices. Then, without a word, Aina stood up and embraced Mikage from the opposite side, starting to stroke her. By the way, her face looks very relaxed.
"A-Aina-sama!?"
"I'm sorry. Please give up."
"What do you mean!?"
Being tousled by her two friends, Mikage, though bewildered, just went along with it. Watching their close bond, my heart feels warm.
'The scene of three beautiful women playing together is so refreshing.'
Indeed, it is so.
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