20+ || AKNK and (rarely) TWST | Will maybe post art in the future? || Non-sharing Yuhan yume || Feel free to mute or block at your comfort! || Banner by @lena-nowitree
synopsis :: in which aruji-sama wants to be carried
CHARACTER(S) :: Yuhan, teddy,
— Yuhan
• one that may take some convincing, but with different feelings
•like I feel like Yuhan would do whatever you said, but also feel like he couldn’t because you’re his master
•Yuhan has an obsessive side to him so I’d say if you offended he might not be able to resist.
•it’s a matter of him keeping his cool
•he might reject you too and offer an alternative if he feels he can’t control himself
Yuhan was at a loss.
At a cross road that lead in two different directions. Looking down at your shivering figure he wondered if this was okay, or if he could handle this himself.
None of the butlers knew you were scared of lightning, and now seeing you cower in the corner of your room Yuhan felt horrible.
Horrible because you, the person he cherished most in this world, was so scared. And also horrible because he felt like holding you.
He felt that familiar feeling he got around you, the one that told him to hold you and never let go.
But Yuhan knew better than that.
So there he was standing over you, worry etched in his face, “Aruji-sama… are you okay?” He felt stupid for even asking. The tears running down your face and the shaking in your shoulders was enough to tell him the answer was no.
But you still answered, you still shook your head. Flinching as another crack of thunder echoed in the air.
“Come on, it will feel safer in your bed,” Yuhan tried to suggest. Not confident he could let go if give this opportunity.
You shook your head, the sounds raging outside scaring you further into the corner.
Yuhan racked his head, thinking of anything he could do for you. But he wasn’t given too long to think.
A crack of lightning sounded, shaking the walls with its force. And before Yuhan knew it you had jumped forward. He stood there, battling his own feelings as you hide your face away in his chest. Tears coaching his thin sleep shirt.
Taking a few deep breaths Yuhan steadied himself. Calming himself down to think clearly.
He wasn’t sure if it was working.
Reaching down he hooked his arms under you, lifting you up.
You immediately wrapped your arms around his neck.
And Yuhan knew it was going to be a long night.
— Teddy
•say less
•YOINK
•You are in his arms, Butler manners be damned
•Teddy would likely do whatever you asked of him, AND he wants to get close with you and hold you
•don’t threaten him with a good time
"Aruji-sama," you heard a soft voice call out to you. Your eyes were heavy with sleep, but regardless you tried your best to peel them open. Coming face to face with of Teddy you simply yawned.
“Sorry, did I fall asleep again?” You asked lazily tilting your head to gaze at the sky, trying to estimate how long you were out.
“You must be tired Aruji-sama,” Teddy said, obviously worried for your well being. You could only nod.
“I’ve been having a hard time sleeping lately, that’s all,” you hummed, not bothering to sit up.
“Is something bothering you?” Teddy asked, seemingly determined to get to the bottom of this. But you couldn’t tell him you stayed up all night thinking about him. And the things he said.
You only smiled, feeling the dimming sunlight on your skin, “nope, nothing at all.”
Teddy didn’t believe you, obviously, but he didn’t push.
“Hey Teddy?” You hummed, feeling the sluggishness in your body, “would you carry me inside? I’m tired-“
You let out a yelp as you were suddenly pulled forward. Strong arms slid under you and before you knew it you held against Teddy’s chest.
“Of course Aruji-sama!” Teddy beamed, like this was the best day ever. He walked slowly, one foot after the other. And you only leaned into him, enjoying the warmth he brought you. You pressed your ear to his chest, and you heart the sound of his heart, thumping quick and fast against your ear
And suddenly you believed you were going to sleep well tonight.
Some time had passed since Yuhan and the others became Demon Butlers…
I was wondering whether Yuhan had been getting along with the other butlers…
And went looking for him to talk.
When I asked the other butlers if they had seen him…
It seemed he was working in the garden.
Heading toward the garden…
I saw Haures and Yuhan repairing the fence.
Yuhan:
Haures-san. The fence repair is complete. Could you please take a look?
Haures:
Hm? Let’s see… Yeah, no problems here. And it’s a clean finish too. Yuhan is very diligent, and his work is meticulous. I’d even like the other butlers to take after him.
Yuhan:
No, no… Compared to everyone else, I am still inexperienced… At the very least, I must work harder than anyone else.
Haures:
Hmm… I suppose it’s this attitude of his as well that makes me want the others to learn from him…
Choices:
Good morning, you two
You’re working hard, Yuhan
Yuhan:
Oh, Master… Good morning. Apologies for my delayed greeting.
Haures:
Good morning, Master. It’s a pleasant morning, isn’t it?
You:
Yeah, it really is
The two of them exchanged greetings with very calm, gentle expressions.
Yuhan didn’t seem tense at all either…
It was clear he was getting along well with Haures.
Yuhan:
By the way… What brings you to the garden, Master?
You:
I heard Yuhan was here
Yuhan:
Oh? Me, Master?
You:
I was wondering if you’ve been getting along with the other butlers
Yuhan:
…My apologies, Master. It seems I’ve been causing you to worry…
You:
But I think I’m not worried anymore
Haures:
That’s right. Yuhan is getting along well with the other butlers… As for that point, I’m not worried about it either. He’s also proactive about helping with the other butlers’ work… He helped me out with mine as well, and it was a big help.
You:
As expected of you, Yuhan
Yuhan:
No, not at all… It’s still not enough to deserve praise from you, Master…
Lamli:
Heeey! Yu-chan~!
Yuhan:
…Oh dear?
You:
That voice is…
When we turned toward the voice…
We saw Lamli running over this way.
Lamli:
There you are~! Yu-chan! Ah, Master too! Good morning!
You:
Good morning, Lamli
Lamli:
Yay~! I got to see Master first thing in the morning! Today’s gonna be a super lucky day!
Haures:
Hey, Lamli… You’re in front of Master, so calm down a little.
Yuhan:
Lamli-san, did you need something from me?
Lamli:
Ah, right! That’s why I came! Hey, Yu-chan! You’ve been helping out with all kinds of jobs lately, right? Then help me with my work too! It can be after you’re done working with Hau-san!
Yuhan:
Yes, of course, I don’t mind at all. I’d be happy to help you.
Haures:
…Hey, Lamli. I’ll ask just in case… You’re not planning to make Yuhan do all the work while you slack off yourself… are you?
Lamli:
Hau-san… Are you trying to say I’m dumping my work on the new guy, Yu-chan?
Haures:
…No, sorry. You’re right, you wouldn’t do something like that…
Lamli:
Exactly! Even I wouldn’t go take a break all by myself or anything! If I’m gonna take a break… I’ll make sure to invite Yu-chan too!
Haures:
………
You:
(Haures is speechless…)
Haures:
Yuhan… we’re done here, so go help Lamli. And keep an eye on him so he doesn’t slack off.
Yuhan:
Um… understood.
Lamli:
Ehh~, Hau-san, that’s so mean~!
Haures:
Lamli, I’m not telling you to completely change your short attention span… But at least try to learn a little from Yuhan’s diligence.
Yuhan:
Well then, Lamli-san, shall we go?
Lamli:
Moo~! I still wanted to talk with Master more~!
Choices:
You two do your best, okay?
Take care
Yuhan:
Please excuse us, Master.
Tap… tap… tap…
Led along by Yuhan, Lamli walked back toward the mansion.
Haures:
Honestly… At this rate, you can’t even tell which one of them is supposed to be the senior anymore… Well, Yuhan is quite serious… Personally, I would like for Yuhan to... look at Lamli's behavior and learn to relax a little.
…Though if he ends up becoming like Lamli, that would be a problem in its own way.
You:
You’re worried about Yuhan, aren’t you?
Haures:
Yes. Because I don’t want Yuhan to push himself the way I did.
It seemed that Haures…
saw a bit of himself in the earnest Yuhan.
You:
...It is worrying
Haures:
Ah… My apologies for making you feel uneasy, Master. Including Yuhan, the butlers who recently joined us… the butlers of the main house will properly look after them. So please, Master, rest assured.
You:
…Alright
Even after saying that…
My worries didn’t completely disappear.
Would Yuhan really be able to…
go on without pushing himself too hard from now on…?
[Devil’s Palace Hallway]
Yuhan:
Now then… Shall I polish the windows next?
Lamli:
Haaah~. Cleaning is seriously such a pain…
Yuhan:
Lamli-san…?
Lamli:
Aah~ man, after finally getting to see Master… I wanted to talk with them a lot more~… Now I kinda wanna slack off and go back to Master already~. You think so too, right, Yu-chan?
Yuhan:
No… I have no intention of slacking off…
Lamli:
Hmm... true, I guess... it's a bit hard to imagine you ever slacking off, Yu-chan. Actually, Yu-chan... have you ever even thought about wanting to slack off from work in the first place?
Yuhan:
Of course not. Not even once. I have felt that I didn't want to do this work several times, but... the option of not doing it simply does not exist.
Lamli:
Whoa… Yuu-chan, you’re as serious as Hau-san… I know I should probably be more like that too…
Yuhan:
(So he is aware that he’s not serious-minded…)
Lamli:
I'm on cleaning duty, so my job is to clean, but... I still end up wanting to slack off~. Because more than cleaning… making Master smile is way more important!
Yuhan:
…Making Master smile, you say?
Lamli:
That's right! Talking with Master, eating sweets together… Making Master smile like that… That’s what matters most to me! Because I want Master… to stay happy forever! But… I still do my cleaning duties properly, okay? Because it’s work that Lucas-sama entrusted to me!
Yuhan:
Making Master… making one’s lord happy as a servant… I had never even considered such a thing before…
…That’s a very wonderful way of thinking.
Lamli:
Right, right~! Then Yu-chan, let’s go see Master right away! Let’s take a nice long break together, okay?
Yuhan:
That is not acceptable.
Lamli:
Eeh~!? Even after all that, it’s still a no!? Fine, I get it~! I'll actually do my cleaning today! I’ll go grab some new cleaning cloths, so… Yu-chan, keep cleaning while I’m gone, okay~!
Yuhan:
Yes, understood.
Thud thud thud…
Yuhan:
……
(Making Master smile, you say...)
Chapter 2
[Devil’s Palace Villa Butlers’ Room]
Teddy:
I see… You want to make Master smile, huh…
Yuhan:
Yes, even if I wanted to give Master a gift… I don’t really know what kinds of things are preferred in the Central Land… Besides, when it comes to a gift from a butler to a master... I have even less of an idea about that...
Teddy:
Hmm… I don’t think you need to think about it quite so seriously… Besides… I don’t think giving gifts is the only way to make Master smile, you know?
Yuhan:
…What do you mean by that?
Teddy:
Back when I was a soldier... I once took my subordinates out when we were on leave. Most of the time, we’d go to a nearby river or lake. Being out in nature, both my subordinates and I were able to refresh ourselves... I remember everyone had a smile on their face.
Yuhan:
Hmm, so in other words… rather than giving a gift, you mean making them happy by going out together?
Teddy:
Exactly!
Yuhan:
It certainly sounds like a good idea, but… would that really be alright? For a butler to invite Master out somewhere… And besides… even if I were to invite Master out… where exactly should I take them…?
……!
Teddy:
Looks like you already have somewhere in mind. Why not invite them out? If it’s Master, I’m sure they’d be happy about it!
Yuhan:
Teddy-san… Thank you very much. Truthfully… There's been a place I’ve wanted to show Master for quite some time.
[Central Land Deep in the Forest]
- A few days later -
Yuhan:
Master… Thank you for accepting my invitation.
You:
Thank you for inviting me
Invited by Yuhan, I went to the forest near the mansion.
Yuhan:
Today, I will be guiding you… to one of my favorite places.
You:
Your favorite place?
Yuhan:
Yes. It’s a place just beyond the forest. Though I’ll keep what kind of place it is a secret for now… I’m sure you’ll like it as well, Master.
Choices:
Alright
I’m looking forward to it!
Yuhan:
Well then, shall we be on our way? You mustn’t trip over the tree roots…
Please, take my hand.
You:
Y-Yeah
Though flustered, I gently took Yuhan’s hand.
Yuhan:
Well then, let us go.
- After a little while -
With Yuhan helping along the way, we spent several dozen minutes making our way through the forest.
Yuhan:
Master, we have arrived.
You:
This place is…
It was a clearing deep within the forest…
and nearby, a small waterfall sent sparkling sprays of water into the air.
And all around it…
The trees were blooming with countless tiny white flowers.
The petals, resembling cherry blossoms, drifted gently on the breeze…
fluttering softly to the ground in an almost poetic scene.
You:
What a beautiful view…
Yuhan:
It’s a grove of wild plum trees. Do you like it, Master?
Choices:
Yeah
Very much!
Yuhan:
Hehe… Seeing you happy makes me happy as well.
…Oh?
You:
What’s wrong?
As if he had noticed something…
Yuhan smiled softly and placed his index finger against his lips.
Chirp… chirp…
You:
(Ah, a bird is singing…)
The adorable chirping of birds echoed throughout the area.
Yuhan must have heard it too.
Keeping his finger to his lips, he narrowed his eyes with a gentle smile.
Yuhan’s smile was so calm and gentle…
that I couldn’t help but smile as well.
Yuhan:
Hehe… Master… you finally smiled for me.
You:
Huh?
Yuhan:
I wanted to make you smile, Master… I wanted you to feel even more happiness… Lately, I’ve found myself thinking that more and more. The reason I brought you here today as well… was because I wanted to see you smile. And… as one who serves you, Master… perhaps these are feelings I should not have… But when I am with you, Master… I feel incredibly at peace. That is why I… want you to spend your days feeling peaceful as well… I want you… to live calmly, with a smile on your face.
You:
Yuhan…
The smile Yuhan wore as he spoke was warm…
and it made it clear that he truly felt at peace.
Yuhan:
…Oh dear?
You:
What’s wrong?
Yuhan:
No… just now, one of the plum blossoms fell… and landed in your hair, Master. Master… Would it be alright if I removed it for you?
Choices:
Y-Yeah
Please do
Yuhan:
Then, excuse me.
Yuhan’s hand reached gently toward my hair.
His hand slowly brushed through my hair.
Yuhan’s touch was so gentle…
that I couldn’t help becoming a little nervous.
Yuhan:
…There, all done. Master, I’ve removed it safely.
Saying that, Yuhan showed the flower resting in his hand.
The flower was small and white… simple, yet very lovely.
You:
It’s cute
Yuhan:
Yes, truly. Well then, since we have the chance… shall we take this flower back to the mansion and make it into a pressed flower?
You:
A pressed flower?
Yuhan:
Yes. If we press the flower and turn it into something like a bookmark…
then whenever you see it, Master, you’ll be able to remember today. And if that bookmark catches your eye during busy moments… perhaps it may soothe your heart, even if only a little…
Saying that, Yuhan smiled gently once more.
He truly seemed to care deeply about me.
You:
Thank you, but…
Yuhan:
…What is it?
You:
I want to give the bookmark to you, Yuhan
Yuhan:
Eh?
You:
Because I want you to feel comforted too, Yuhan
As Haures had mentioned before…
I worried that hardworking Yuhan might be pushing himself too much.
Choices:
Don’t overwork yourself
Don’t forget to take time to care for yourself
Yuhan:
Master… Thank you very much, Master. I will never forget what happened today. So next year, when the plum blossoms bloom again… Would you come back to this place with me once more?
You:
Of course!
Yuhan:
Hehe… I truly am fortunate. Because with such a wonderful Master, in such a wonderful place… I was able to create a memory shared by just the two of us…
🧸 Teddy : This season is a truly special time for a couple about to get married, isn't it? I will serve my young master for the rest of my life... This is my vow as a butler!
☔ Yuhan : It is not my duty to please aruji-sama it is my own desire. If I could spend eternity by aruji-sama’s side, there would be no greater happiness than this.
💮 Hanamaru : June bride, huh~
Normally, I’d tease with something like, “Aren’t you supposed to be sitting next to me?” But for now, at least, I don’t feel like joking around~
(Berrien and Nac aren’t good with worms, but for Aruji they’ll do their best,because they love you)
(Lono, Fennesz, Haures are thinking hard about how to help Aruji in this state, caring for the person they love)
(Flure and Shiro are wondering what kind of question is that? <- of course they do love you but they’re more like hah?)
“I’ll take good care of you!”
Teddy, Lamli, Lato, Ammon, Beren, Muu
(They’re all very enthusiastic and they love Aruji in every way, Ammon’s quite good at taking care of worms, I think he would let worm Aruji thrive in his garden and Lamli would put worm Aruji in his pocket and take them everywhere)
What do you think the butlers career, jobs would be in modern times/ world? (It seems self explanatory based on their interests but Im curious)
[Akuneko HC] Butlers in Modern World (Jobs)
Hiii Anon! 🥹💖
I think some has talked about it in the Home Screen dialogues, but if it were in the modern world, I can imagine they would be: (special thanks to @vierose444, @mailoveforu, @kwakwasstuff, and @popstarqueen for your help!)
Berrien: Cafe Shop Owner (Berrien would design and tailor the drinks, there is a special menu where the customer can order, which is “Impression Tea”, where Berrien would make a tea based on the impression of the person. The cafe specialty is Black Tea (Berrien’s cafe has one of the richest collections of Black Tea, and they are displayed on the shelf as if like a museum, even the tea cups and utensils are really unique, as if from the Victorian era)
Lono: Restaurant Owner/Main chef (his restaurant usually serves Breakfast/Brunch in the morning, with gentle pastries and savoury dishes that can warm your heart up in the morning), his plates are usually large and hearty, everyone really loves the portion size, thinking Lono is quite generous (but you must finish the plate or take it home with you, that’s the only rule Lono doesn’t want you to break, don’t waste food). He would often cook for the people in need and make a lot of portions to distribute them, so that everyone wouldn’t have to experience hunger.
Bastien: Animal Care/He also works in Lono’s restaurant too. Bastien loves to volunteer in the animal shelter, it’s like a healing moment for him to be able to take care of the animals and he also wish to work in a stable to take care of the horses. Whenever he sees the animals getting adopted by nice owners, when the people left, he couldn’t help but smile and wave at the animal and hoped that they are taken care well. On the lucky chance, he might see them again on the street and the animal also recognized Bastien too. <- it made Bastien’s day.
Haures: Personal Trainer (Haures is someone who’s really good at coaching, and he knows the limitations of his students, he doesn’t overly push them and he would tell them to train slowly then slowly add up more weights and reps. He would also train others to know how to defend and combat, teaching them self defence skills that it can be used when in an emergency. Haures would usually do a demonstration with a dummy instead of hands-on with a student because he’s respectful of the distances and he also gets nervous)
Fennesz: Librarian/Teacher/Author (As a book lover, he loves to work with books and organizing them, and if you were to ask him a question about the book sections, he’ll gladly take you there. He enjoys reading about the donated books, and sometimes he would also head to a bookstore to scavenge for books too. As well, at the library, they will also hosts lessons for all to learn about history, in which Fennesz is the teacher. His lessons are really easy to learn about and sometimes they would take field trips to the museum. Fennesz also writes books himself too in his spare time <- not published yet, he started off writing fics first based on the series he liked and wanted to try it out)
Boschi: Interior Designer (Boschi, who has an eye for beauty, is perfect for interior designs. Boschi has made his own brand, and his trademark of his designs are usually elegant and sophisticated. When you tell him the designs you wish to incorporate, he would based the designs off of what you wish, but be sure that you will need to allow room for his creativity as Boschi is someone who doesn’t like to be ordered around. <- His customers all know about this rule, which is why they all wish to leave it to Boschi, he enjoys going to the furniture stores (coughs ikea) to look for inspiration, and sometimes he would also make the items himself.)
Ammon: Flower Shop Owner (hehe, as expected of the amazing flower expert, Ammon would have a flower shop. He did his best to save money to get back his mother’s shop after she passed. He ended up taking multiple side jobs to pay back the medical bills. A really frugal and natural merchant. The flowers in the shop are from his own garden. If you asked him anything from anniversaries, to occasions, to friends to family to lovers, he would have the perfect bouquet he can tailor accordingly to your needs. His flower shop is one of the most popular shops around <- Ammon also promotes his shop through social media, really good at interacting with his fans and he also gives helpful gardening tips.)
Lamli: Entertainer/Actor/Stunt Actor (Lamli, who is super energetic, is perfect for the spotlight. He’s the life of the party wherever he goes and someone as expressive as Lamli is perfect as an actor. He was a child actor initially because his mother wanted him to earn money by taking commercials, but Lamli was really honest about his thoughts, so when there is a really strange drink he needs to drink and act like it was tasty for a commercial, he immediately spits it out, “This is disgusting…!!” <- He has sensitive taste buds. And he lost his work at the time. So he ended up learning how to dance so that he can get more cases. He quickly learned his talent for circus acts because he wanted to stand out from the other actors, and he realized that because he didn’t have a childhood, he really enjoyed doing things like climbing trees and being chased, living dangerously, which got him into doing stunts. And Lamli is excellent at his job <- he does have to be careful because there had been close instances. He’s the type of action movie actor who does his own stunts.)
Nac: Accountant (Every company would want Nac as their accountant <- that is if you got something to hide 👀 an eye for numerical details and for beauty, he will organize his files neatly for you to access, immeculate and he tends to work overtime during the night when he couldn’t sleep (Nac operates on too little sleep 😭). His usual relaxing hours would consist of embroidery, he finds it quite calming and his sewed pieces are displayed in his home. You can see his handkerchiefs with his name embroidered. Often business owners would thank Nac with presents, and they would do whatever it can to search what he enjoys to get on his good side, and Orangette is the most common, yet beloved option. But Nac doesn’t take bribery, a righteous man who speaks through his clearcut numbers and beautiful poetic words. He enjoys going to art museums, attending poem readings and the stage performances to enjoy beautiful arts.)
Lucas: Surgeon (Lucas, who specialized in the medical field since he was young, thrived in high-stress environments. Someone who is driven by curiosity, he is constantly learning to adapt and help people better. Someone whose hands are steady and fast, his surgery time is often shorter than expected, giving relief to the families who are waiting outside. The patients are always relieved when they hear their main surgeon is Lucas Thompscie, a high success rate. His way of speaking will always soothe the family’s nervous heart, reassuring that he will always bring their loved ones back to health. He enjoys eating pound cake as his reward and sugar boost to continue to the next operation, and at night, he would drink wine to help him sleep a little better <- but he also gets woken up for emergency. He enjoys patting animals as a stress reliever.)
Miyaji: Family Physician/pediatrician/music therapist/teacher (Miyaji gave me a feeling that if he were to pursue a doctor route, he would most likely be taking care of families and children. He is well-loved by children, he would be the type of doctor to cheer up children by using different games and songs to get them to relax and laugh and he would give them candies and stickers as reward after. “You’ve been quite brave.” Dr. Miyaji would say. Or perhaps, just like what he said, he believes that “Music can heal people’s hearts.” So he might incorporate his passion with his work, by becoming a music therapist who helps those who couldn’t open up their hearts to try to express themselves through music. Or maybe, Miyaji would go back to his roots of becoming a teacher, just like how he would teach the children of different topics, music, mathematics, manners and more. He’s a really kind and patient teacher who would help his students to understand the lessons better and he would also craft notes for them too.)
Lato: Musician/Freelancer/Dancer/Most likely a career in arts and expression (Content Creator) (Someone as free-spirited as Lato, doesn’t like to be tied down to one job. A natural musician with perfect pitch, he often create songs with his singing. If he were to play instruments, he learned them from Miyaji (if Miyaji is a music teacher). He doesn’t like to read off of music sheets, so he usually plays by ear or memory. Lato enjoys taking photographs of the things he finds beauty in, a beauty connoisseur who posts on social media, curating interests from his fans. He is known as the “Parsley Beauty”. He is also from the same dance studio as Lamli and Flure.)
Flure: Fashion Designer/Tailor (Flure enjoys making clothes for his sister’s dolls since he was young. At his house, you often see him trying to sketch out different outfits and coordinations, matching accessories and hairstyles. His mother and his older sisters are magnificent dancers, and Flure would create the best outfits for them to perform in, he works as the Troupe’s Tailor after his family showed what Flure could create, and Flure’s skills began to flourish the more he creates. It’s a perfect job for him, because he’s also a ballet dancer, he knows the perfect fabric and style that the dancers feels comfortable in, plus the stories of the play allowed him to demonstrate his creativity to match what they’re searching for. Wanting to be more skilled at tailoring, Flure was trained under Zepal, who then asked him if he wish to open a shop together with him. They’re both famously known in the fashion industry. Flure usually doesn’t like to attend large events due to his shyness, so you could find him hiding behind Zepal. Lamli would often frequent his shop because he loves Flure’s sense of fashion and Lato would also visit Flure because he has an eye for his beautiful work.)
Hanamaru: Daycare caretaker/Poet (Author) (Young Hanamaru used to be a runaway before the sister took him in the church. They nursed him back to health, and Hanamaru didn’t want to owe them anything, so he decided to stay and help them. Before joining the church, he used to take care of the children back in his town too, they would surround him and Hanamaru would ruffle their heads and play with them, so it was easy for him to also take care of the children at the church daycare. Hanamaru, while he seemed laidback, he’s a hardworking fast learner who could make cute and healthy bentou boxes for the children to enjoy, and he would play the piano accompaniment for them to play. He’s the big brother who could bring up the mood and if the children were to ask if they drew it well, Hanamaru would praise them with his whole heart, super dramatically, but the whole class would often roar with laughter and excitement. He would also be there to listen to the children if they were to encounter a trouble and he would be patting them and said, “Don’t you worry, Hanamaru-Niisan is here to help ya~” Hanamaru’s fav time of the day is “Nap Time.” He is also a poet in his free time. His words are surprisingly sentimental and beautiful, and he would write it under a pseudo-name to hide his identity because he’s embarrassed to let other people see his serious side.)
Yuuhan: International Affairs/Diplomat (Yuuhan, who is an excellent problem solver, would be perfect for a difficult job in International Affairs, who would interact with other countries, representing and reassuring the safety of the people in his country. Yuuhan is someone who is always on the move, travelling between countries. He’s honest and he’s always thinking about his people’s best interest in terms of peace, security, human rights, health, environment and more. He also has trouble with resting, and he tend to buried himself with a lot of work, so he would often visit Red Bean Bun Shops to purchase them and have them with his tea. When he meets new companions, he would offer them to visit and he would host tea ceremonies for them as his hospitality. He would send most of his salaries back to his parents, in which his parents would also try to send it back to Yuuhan too.)
Teddy: Actor (Teddy, who would mask himself since he was young, quickly learned his talent of acting. Whenever he reads stories about Knights, he would wipe his tears and try to read aloud in front of the mirror. He deeply admired those who are brave and shining, who has the skills to protect others and he would often train himself. During his actor training, he would frequent the gym Haures is and Haures is his personal trainer. No matter how difficult Haures’ training gets, Teddy is always seen with such a bright smile on his face. He first took an actor job in an amusement park, acting out the bright character who brings smiles to other people’s heart and quickly social media found Teddy and he rose in popularity. Teddy was able to prove his skills to perform in fighting roles, his strong knowledge with swords and weapons gave him an advantage to act in medieval setting movies and action sequences. He and Lamli are often in the same movies together because of their agility. Teddy enjoys going to coffee shops and he would wear a mask to hide his face before he buys coffee beans at a shop (he also frequents Berrien’s cafe too). Teddy’s merchandise is a cute teddy bear with clover.)
Beren: Daycare caretaker/Pizzeria & Bar Owner (Beren, who grew up as the big brother of the orphanage, would take care of his younger siblings well. He would take them out to play soccer and they would make sweets together whenever it’s afternoon tea time. Berrien is also from the same orphanage as Beren, they would often call each other and help one another. He works in the same daycare as Hanamaru, and Hanamaru is his senpai at first, but Beren quickly caught up to him. He’s really organized who would immediately pick up the items on the ground (because he’s afraid that someone would trip over the toys or it might look messy on the ground). At night, Beren works as the Pizzeria and Bar owner, who would make pizza and drinks whenever it’s not too busy (he has recipes he wrote down for his staff but he enjoys making them himself. The recipes are all taste tested by Beren before he added them on the menu). If you were to order the sweet pizza, you can drizzle the honey Beren makes from his bee-keeping hobby. Just like Berrien and Ammon, if you were to request a drink based on impression or occasion, he can make the perfect cocktail that’s suitable for you.)
Shiro: Artist/Painter (Shiro, who was the successor to his family’s business, decided to pursue his passion after his younger brother gave him a push in the back, because he saw how burnout Shiro looked <- Shiro works extremely hard and often lost time for breaks because he wanted to make sure everything is prepared, but his younger brother saw how relaxed he was whenever he’s painting. His parents agreed to let Shiro pursue his passion after seeing his beautiful artworks. They thought, “we shouldn’t bury your talents anymore.” Shiro’s art captured the emotions of the scenes he painted, each brushstroke, each colour and gradient have their purpose on the canvas. And they gave their full support after Shiro proved himself to them and Shiro agreed that they can also have his works for charity galas to raise money for causes that helps preserving nature and the environment. Shiro made a promise to them that if he doesn’t succeed in this field, he will come back to take care of the business, so they don’t need to worry about him, to his brother’s relief.)
Wish upon a black rabbit. Yuhan's card translation
Part 1.
We achieved our goal of catching a black rabbit... So for the next few days... We decided to stay in Lapan.
- Lapan Hotel -
One day... Yuhan came to my room.
Yuhan: Master. It's already evening, do you have any plans?
You: Not at all.
Yuhan: That's good. Then...
Yuhan: Do you want to go to a rabbit cafe with me?
You: A rabbit cafe?
Yuhan: We received information about black rabbits from the owner the other day... It's that shop.
Yuhan: A while ago... It seems like a black rabbit was born in that shop...
Yuhan: I'd like to go see it with Master.
You: Okay then.
Yuhan: Fufu, then... Let's get ready for the cafe.
You: Uh-huh.
- Lapan Rabbit Cafe -
- A little later -
When we entered the cafe... We decided to talk to the granny who ran the cafe.
Yuhan: Good evening, Granny.
Grandma: Oh, it's you. Good evening.
You: Good evening.
Yuhan: We heard that a baby rabbit was born in this cafe...
Yuhan: Can we see the cub?
Grandma: Mm? Oh, yeah, I don't mind.
Grandma: I owe you a lot. Consider this my gratitude and watch as much as you like.
You: Thank you very much.
Grandma led us to the rabbit yard behind the café.
Yuhan: They aren't kept in the café, are they?
Grandma: Yes, I keep all the babies in this yard.
Grandma: There are a lot of rabbits in the yard... Don't step on them.
You: Okay.
Grandma: Oh... This little one closer to you. Look, it's him.
Grandma picked up the rabbit that was sitting close to the entrance of the yard.
Yuhan: ...This is... So cute.
Grandma: This baby was born only 2 weeks ago.
Grandma: Rabbits grow up quickly.
Grandma: To see a rabbit of this size... You guys are very lucky.
After saying that...Grandma carefully gave the rabbit to Yuhan.
Grandma: Take care of this little one.
Yuhan: Yes. Thank you very much.
Grandma: Well... Then I'll get back to work.
Grandma: When you're done, call me.
Yuhan: Okay.
*Step step step*
Yuhan: Fufu... Such soft and fluffy fur.
Yuhan holds the rabbit in his hands and... Gently strokes it.
Yuhan: Master, would you like to hold this little one?
You: Yeah.
Yuhan: Then... Please sit here.
Yuhan allowed me to sit on the wooden stool in the yard.
You: Thank you.
Yuhan: I'll put the rabbit on your lap.
After saying that... Yuhan gently put the rabbit on my lap.
Yuhan: He doesn't run away and seems to be a very quiet little rabbit.
You: So cute.
Yuhan: I agree.
Yuhan: Fufu... We are very lucky to be able to be with such a cute rabbit like this.
Yuhan: When I arrived in Lapan City... I would like the master to have a special memory.
You: Thank you, Yuhan.
Yuhan: Fufu... You don't need to thank me.
Yuhan: On the contrary, I saw master with the rabbit... That's a special memory for me.
Yuhan: The little rabbit is certainly very cute...
Yuhan: But the master who holds one in their arms... They're even cuter.
You: Um...
Yuhan: Fufu... To be the only one who can witness such a scene...
Yuhan: I am a very lucky man.
You: Yuhan...
Then... Up until now, the little rabbit was looking at us... As if wanting to be pampered, it rolled over in my lap.
You: Cu... Cute...
Yuhan: Oya oya. To be able to capture the master's gaze in an instant...
Yuhan: Looks like I have a rival.
After saying that, Yuhan smiled softly at the rabbit. And, as if tempted by that smile... The other rabbits gathered around us.
You: Do you all want me to pet you?
Yuhan: Fufu... It seems so.
Yuhan: When their heads are pressed to your fingers like that... You can't help but pet them.
Yuhan: Really... They ask to be petted so nicely that I kind of want to be like them.
You: Eh?
I tried to ask Yuhan what he meant, but... He was like "I didn't say anything"... Yuhan was calmly petting the rabbit... I pretended I didn't hear anything.
- A little later -
While we were having fun surrounded by rabbits... A boy came into the store crying, holding a rabbit in his arms.
Boy: Uu... Uu... What should I do..!
Boy: Grandma! Grandma! Kuro... Save Kuro..!
Yuhan: Oya... What happened?
Boy: Kuro... Kuro...
Boy: Hey, where's Grandma? I need to show her Kuro right now.
Boy: Grandma..! Grandma..!
You: Grandma is in the store now...
*Step step step*
Grandma: I thought it was noisy in the yard, so I came... What happened?
You: Ah, Grandma!
Boy: Uu... Uu... Kuro... He hasn't moved much for a long time...
Boy: Please, Grandma... Check on Kuro.
Grandma: ...Did Kuro eat well this morning?
Boy: He hasn't eaten... He's lost his appetite lately...
Boy: I was able to feed him shredded carrots before... But not a single bite today...
Grandma: Is that so..?
Boy: B-But... Kuro will get better, right?
Yuhan: Can I take a look at Kuro-san?
Boy: Uh... Yeah...
Boy: This little rabbit... Come on, Kuro... Open your eyes...
The boy put the rabbit named Kuro down on the ground. But... Kuro didn't even move.
You: (This is...)
Yuhan: .....
Grandma: ...Kuro... is already dead.
Boy: ...Eh...?
Part 2.
Boy: T-That's... A lie... That's a lie..!
Boy: Before I left the house... He really did open his eyes...
Boy: That's... Kuro couldn't have died...
Grandma: His body is still warm... It hasn't been that long since he died.
Grandma: While you were coming here... Perhaps his life had come to an end.
Boy: Uu... Uwaaaah..! Kuro... Kuro...
Seeing the boy cry... I felt my heart clench.
Yuhan: Poor thing... But life can't be prolonged.
Grandma: Yes. ... Lately, that child has been bringing Kuro here often.
Grandma: "Kuro isn't feeling well"... I was worried for a long time.
Grandma: I suspected that his life was coming to an end... ...And it finally happened.
You: Is that so...
Grandma: They went together for a walk every day... He always spent time with Kuro.
Yuhan: ...Is that so...
You: It must be hard...
Yuhan: Yeah... It hurts even more when you hear Grandma's story.
Boy: Uu... Uu... Kuro, open your eyes...
Yuhan: ....
*Step step step*
Yuhan walks up to the crying boy who is hugging Kuro... Yuhan gently puts his hand on the boy's back.
Boy: Uuu...
Yuhan: ...Kuro-san was really appreciated.
Boy: Uh-huh... ...Kuro is my friend.... My family...
Boy: Uu... Uu... I wanted to be together more...
Boy: Kuro... I'm sorry I didn't save you...
Yuhan: ....
Yuhan: ...Kuro-san went back to the moon.
Boy: ...To the moon?
Yuhan: Yes, in the Eastern Land... They say that when a rabbit dies, it returns to the moon.
Yuhan: There are many rabbits there... They seem to be happy together.
Yuhan: ...Kuro-san went to the moon in the arms of his beloved owner...
Yuhan: I'm sure he'll be happy there.
Boy: Uu... If that's true, then good...
Yuhan listened to the boy's story... He stroked boy's back until he stopped crying. This situation... I watched in silence.
- Lapan Hill -
- A little later -
When the boy went home... We also thanked grandma and left the café. And I... Came with Yuhan to a hill with a beautiful view. The sun had already set, and the moon was shining in the sky.
Yuhan: The boy we saw today... I hope he can soon accept Kuro-san's death.
You: That's right.
Yuhan: He doesn't have sad memories of Kuro-san...
Yuhan: I wish he could only have pleasant memories of Kuro-san.
You: Yuhan is kind.
Yuhan: Oya... Me?
You: Because you were there for the boy.
Yuhan: That's...
Yuhan: It's just... I can understand the boy's pain...
You: Yuhan too?
Yuhan: Yes. It was quite a long time ago.
Yuhan: Actually, when I was a child... I had a rabbit.
Yuhan: At that time, my mother told me that there was a legend that "rabbits return to the moon"...
You: I see.
Yuhan: I caught rabbits for food, but... There were some too small to eat.
Yuhan: There was no reason to kill them if we weren't going to eat them.
Yuhan: One day, I found a rabbit that had fallen into a trap I had set. It was weakened.
Yuhan: I decided to take it home and protect it.
You: What happened next?
Yuhan: After that... While taking care of the rabbit, I began to get attached to it...
Yuhan: I decided to keep the little rabbit even when it grew up.
You: I see.
Yuhan: Fufu... It was cute to see him eating from my hands...
Yuhan: There wasn't a single day when I would be bored... I watched the rabbit carefully.
Yuhan: ...But soon...
Yuhan: Unfortunately, the rabbit got sick and died.
You: It must have been hard...
Yuhan: Yes... At that time, I cried like that boy.
Yuhan: I lived in a small village... No doctor would accept the rabbit.
Yuhan: ...Even if I went to the city to show it to a vet...
Yuhan: I lived a poor life... I didn't have enough money to pay for the treatment.
Yuhan: At that time... I became aware of my worthlessness.
You: Is that so...
Yuhan: And at the same time...
Yuhan: The rabbits return to the moon... Both me and my family...
Yuhan: I realized that everyone's lives will end someday.
You: Yuhan...
Yuhan: But...
Yuhan: Having become a devil's butler... My life has lost its natural end...
Yuhan: No matter how many centuries and millennia pass... I will not die a natural death.
Yuhan: However, no matter how bitter it is for me...
Yuhan: The life of a devil butler... Is always on the brink of death.
Yuhan: It's just that the duration can't be measured...
Yuhan: Where to end... Nothing has changed.
You: ...Is that so.
Yuhan: In the sense that death is just around the corner...
Yuhan: Whether I was a devil butler or a soldier... Nothing has changed.
Yuhan: When I was a soldier... My life could end at any moment...
Yuhan: I dedicated myself to my duty.
Yuhan: If my life was to end...
Yuhan: For my family and hometown... I wanted to give my life for them.
You: Yuhan...
(But if that's the case...)
Yuhan: That's... I'm sorry for suddenly bringing this up...
You: ......
In his days as a soldier... Yuhan was willing to sacrifice himself for his family and the town... As for the butlers and me now... Is he willing to do the same? When I imagine Yuhan disappearing... I feel sad.
You: How do you feel about your life now?
Yuhan: Hmm... Now?
You: Do you think there's no point in dying?
Yuhan: Master...
Yuhan: I'm sorry. It seems my story has upset you.
Yuhan: But... Don't worry, Master.
Yuhan: Now... My way of thinking has changed a bit.
You: Really..?
Yuhan: Yes.
Yuhan: Now, as long as I'm alive... I want to create memories with Master.
Yuhan: Since life is limited by death...
Yuhan: When the time of the end comes... I want it to be filled with happiness.
Yuhan: That's what I think now.
Yuhan: Besides... Now I have a reason not to die so easily.
You: A reason..?
Yuhan: Yes. If I die, master will be sad.
Yuhan: I... I don't want to be the cause of aster's sadness.
Yuhan: When master cries, I want to be by their side and wipe away their tears...
Yuhan: I want to be by your side and be close to your heart...
Yuhan: That's why, Master, from now on...
Yuhan: That sweet and beautiful smile... I want it to always shine on your face.
You: Yuhan...
Yuhan smiled and took my hand.
You: Eh... Yu-Yuhan..?
Yuhan: Master, what I'm about to do... Forgive me for this.
You: What are you...
Yuhan then brought my palm to his face. He touched the inside of it with his lips.
You: Eh!?
Yuhan: ...My sincere feelings and desires... They may be inappropriate in a master-butler relationship.
Yuhan: But up until now, I... I was imagining life with Name-sama.
Yuhan: When the hunt for angels ends and we are relieved of our duties as devil butlers... What will happen to our relationship...?
Yuhan: The moment when I meet master as a man, not as a butler. I can't help but think about it.
You: T-That's...
Yuhan: In my imagination... After so many memories with master...
Yuhan: ... I will return to the moon before master.
Yuhan: That's the end I want to meet.
You: ... Return before me?
Yuhan: I know this contradicts what I said earlier.
Yuhan: If I die first... Master will definitely be upset.
Yuhan: But...
Yuhan: Life without master... I can't think about it anymore.
Yuhan: Even imagining it... It's scary... I can't do anything with it.
Yuhan: ...So that none of us would be sad...
Yuhan: If we could return to the moon together... We would be happy.
You: Yuhan...
Yuhan: What is it... Sorry for such a dark story.
Yyhan: I never thought about something like that before...
Yuhan: When people meet someone important... They tend to become emotional.
Yuhan: But now... If we can touch each other like this and express our feelings...
Yuhan: Instead of talking about death that will occur someday... Let's enjoy the journey instead.
Yuhan: Memories of a walk together...
Yuhan: Until the very end... Let that be our light.
You: Yes.
Let's remember together until the end comes... Hearing Yuhan's words, I nodded. Even when the end comes, we will be together... I silently hoped for that.
Hehe I saw this post on Twitter talking about the musical instruments the butlers played:
Hehe and also according to Lato, he doesn’t know how to read music sheets, so he would most likely be playing the music by ear <- he has amazing hearing, possibly perfect pitch
Lato once noted Fennesz’s guitar playing is gentle yet strong and Lato is also the guitar teacher for Haures too, since Haures said he also wish to learn to play an instrument.
Hanamaru learned how to play the piano when he was at church, taking care of the children, he would often play for them <- he’s quite good at playing
Miyaji and Lucas used to play violin duets together in the olden days.
Fennesz learned the harp since he was little with his older sister (he thinks he’s not good at it when compared to his sister)
Boschi’s guitar playing is really soothing! Please watch it!!!
Voice: “Even if I devoted my entire being to Master, it still wouldn’t be enough.
Fufu. This is a real dilemma.”
※ A notice before reading the Butler Story
This story contains spoilers for the “Black Rose Wedding” event story. It is recommended to read up to Chapter 13 of the event story before proceeding.
…………
The wedding preparations that had been carried out together with the butlers came to a close without incident.
At the request of the bride, Melissa-sama, the cleanup would be put off for a while.
“Until then, the Devil Butlers may stay at this mansion.
...No, I want you to stay.”
Thanks to the earnest wish of our client… we ended up spending several days at the mansion as they were.
⁓ One day during our stay ⁓
Yuhan: “Master. How do you like today’s herbal tea?”
“It’s very good.”
Yuhan: “Is that so… I’m glad.”
We were exchanging such peaceful words when… a familiar voice broke the silence.
Seldor: “There you are, Yuhan!
Please, give me your advice!”
“...Do you need something from Yuhan?”
Seldor: “Oh, [Name]-kun is here too. My apologies.
I came again today to ask the butler for advice on how to propose.”
Yuhan: “...I see. Understood. I’ll take care of that matter later.
That said, I have no experience with a real proposal myself… so I cannot guarantee I’ll live up to your expectations as a consultant.”
Seldor: “What are you saying! Your opinion is quite valuable even among the butlers.
If the lack of proposal experience is a concern… well…
…Could you go and experience a proposal right now?”
(...Huh?)
Yuhan: “...Um. Did you just tell me to go and propose to someone?”
Seldor: “Ah, yes… that’s right!
And then come back and advise me, please!”
Yuhan: “...Please calm down. No matter how much you ask, I cannot agree to such a thing.”
Seldor: “Don’t say that…!
You’re the only one I can ask this sort of thing!”
Yuhan: “......”
(This is becoming a problem…)
“...Um, Seldor-sama.”
Yuhan: “...!
Master…?”
“I am very sorry, but…”
“As their Master, I cannot allow a consultation that might affect the private life of my butler.”
…That’s what I told Seldor-sama.
Seldor: “I-I see… That… makes sense, I suppose…
…I’m sorry, including interrupting your tea time, I admit I was in the wrong.
But that said… I still want Yuhan to advise me on my proposal. I won’t say anything unreasonable like ‘go propose to someone’ anymore, but…
Could he put himself in the shoes of ‘a man about to propose’... and show me an example?”
Yuhan: “An example, you say… In other words… you want to know ‘what kind of proposal I would give’?”
Seldor: “Yes! That’s exactly what I’m after.
Tell me your idea of a ‘proposal that cannot fail’!
And of course the whole dating plan beforehand!”
(...He’s very demanding..”
Yuhan: “...I see. Understood.
If hypothetical scenarios are acceptable… I might be able to meet Seldor-sama’s expectations. Just as there are mock battles for fighting… I simply need to conduct a mock proposal.”
“M-Mock proposal…?”
Yuhan: “Yes.
However, a mock proposal cannot be done alone.”
Yuhan sent a meaningful glance my way. Or rather… the meaning of that glance was obvious without asking.
(He wants me to play the other person…)
Yuhan: “Of course… I cannot share every detail of what happens then.
A proposal is a sacred covenant between two people… What I can convey are only the essential attitudes.
If you can forgive that… then I believe it would be possible to offer advice in the exact form Seldor-sama desires.
…That is my thinking, but…
…What do you think, Master? I would be delighted to hear your opinion.”
“Um…”
Honestly, I didn’t expect things to go this way, but… if it satisfies Seldor-sama and reduces the burden on Yuhan… I want to help as much as I can.
“I think that’s fine.”
Yuhan: “Heh… thank you very much.
Then, Seldor-sama… would it be alright if we set aside some time for this another day?”
Seldor: “O-Oh?
Does that mean things are going as I hoped?!
Alright, I’m counting on you, Yuhan! I expect the best proposal!”
Leaving those words behind, Seldor-sama hurriedly left the scene.
And so… I ended up going on a date with Yuhan and then having him convey his feelings to me in the form of a proposal.
⁓ Next Day ⁓
Today, without delay… I am scheduled to go out on a date with Yuhan.
Yuhan: “...Master. I have come to escort you.”
“Please, come in.”
Click (door open)
Yuhan: “Sorry to have kept you waiting. Thank you for today.
And… let me apologize again.”
“Huh? For what?”
Yuhan: “Even though it is only a ‘hypothetical’ setting… I have involved you, Master, in the kind of proposal I would give.
From your perspective… I worried this might have become an unwelcome turn of events.”
“I don’t mind at all.”
Of course, I was surprised, but… if this is the turn Yuhan wanted, that’s what matters most.
“So today, let’s enjoy it without worrying.”
Yuhan: “Master…
…No. Perhaps just for today… I should call you [Name]-san.
After all, we are about to go out as two people who are on the verge of a proposal.”
Yuhan said this with a very happy smile.
Today’s date… seems like it will be especially wonderful.
⁓ A few minutes later ⁓
Yuhan: “Hmm… a large mansion really does make moving around the grounds a bit of a chore.
That said, in the meantime… talking with you like this, [Name]-san, is enjoyable.”
“Have you decided what the proposal will be?”
Yuhan: “Yes, roughly.
But… for now, it’s a secret.
Even if this isn’t a real proposal… the person I’m facing is you, [Name]-san, whom I deeply respect… So I want to keep the content hidden until the moment comes… so that you can feel surprise and emotion.
That way… it will surely remain in your memory, [Name]-san.”
“I see…”
Yuhan: “Of course… that’s not the only reason.
It’s also because I want to see the other person’s surprised face, their happy face… That desire of mine is part of my decision.”
“That’s so like you, Yuhan.”
Yuhan: “Hmm… do you think so?
Personally, I think it’s not about the excitement of surprise and emotion… but also about sharing small happiness together with the other person… I want to cherish that as well.”
> “I think that’s important too.”
Yuhan: “Thank you. I’m glad you and I see eye to eye, [Name]-san.
Heh, and yet… considering that we are currently on the verge of a proposal… this conversation feels just like… a couple aligning their values before marriage. As we go on to live together from now on… learning about each other anew…
That's the kind of special conversation it seems like.”
“That’s true…”
Thinking that way, this conversation might be a chance to learn even more about Yuhan.
“If it were you, Yuhan, what would you value in your life?”
Yuhan: “Hmm… let’s see.. When two people live together… I suppose I would strive for a peaceful daily life… supporting each other as we go.
However… what I desire the most is not a life without change, merely quiet and still.
From time to time, I think I would also show the feelings I usually keep suppressed… to my partner.”
“Feelings you keep suppressed…?”
Yuhan: “...Yes.
Love differs from person to person… its kinds and forms are varied.
I am certain that toward my partner… I would feel not only a gentle affection… but also something like an obsessive attachment.
I don’t intend to let those heavy, dangerous feelings show often…. but if my partner were to permit it… then sometimes, forgetting self-restraint… following my own heart… I would want to interact with my partner that way.”
“I-Is that so…?”
Yuhan: “Yes.
And furthermore… not only myself, but I would also wish for my partner to show me such feelings as well.
Being able to touch the depths of each other’s hearts like that… that is my ideal married life… my ideal relationship with my partner.
Heh… of course… my body and my heart already belong to the other person, so… if you wish for it… I would lay bare the depths of my heart at any time.”
“...Um……”
Even though this is only a “hypothetical” conversation… Yuhan’s words stir my heart.
Trying to maintain my composure, I could only return a smile.
Yuhan: “Now then… while we’ve been talking, we’ve arrived at our first destination.
Well then… from here on, let’s properly enjoy our date.”
In the direction Yuhan indicated… there stood a single horse, fitted with a saddle that looked quite fine.
Yuhan gave the horse a gentle stroke.. and the horse nuzzled up against him just a little.
Yuhan: “Hehe… Please help us out on our date today.”
“So we’re going out riding on this one.”
Yuhan: “Yes. I thought we could go for a long ride… and spend some quiet time together, just the two of us.
We’ll be sharing a single horse, but… is that all right?”
“Of course.”
Yuhan: “Understood.
Then pardon me… I’ll mount first.”
No sooner had he said that, Yuhan, with a light and graceful movement, sat himself in the saddle.
Yuhan: “...[Name]-san. Your hand, please.”
When I took his outstretched hand… my body was lifted up with a surprising ease.
Yuhan: “Now then… let’s go.
I won’t go too fast, but… it will sway a bit, so please be careful.”
“O-Okay…”
Careful or not, the person sitting behind me, Yuhan himself, was supporting me as if enveloping me, so I felt no unease.
(Still, this situation is nerve-wracking…)
As I was thinking that… I had the feeling Yuhan, just behind me, let out a small laugh.
⁓ Some time later ⁓
On horseback, we arrived at a forest with a lake.
Looking up, we could clearly see small animals resting in the trees; looking down, the water’s surface sparkled beautifully.
Yuhan: “...How is it?
Do you like the view from horseback?”
“Yes, very much.”
Yuhan: “Is that so… I’m glad to hear you say that.
…Oya. [Name]-san, please look at your left.”
When I followed Yuhan’s prompting and turned my gaze… there was a small bird perched on a branch.
Yuhan: “Hehe… It’s very cute.”
“You’ve always liked small birds, haven’t you, Yuhan?”
Yuhan: “Yes
When I was a child, I looked after one for a while, you see.
Come to think of it… that bird over there is supposed to be a friendly species, even among wild birds.
If you’re interested, you might try reaching out your hand. With luck, it might come to you.”
“Got it.”
For Yuhan, who loves small birds… I thought it was worth the try.
I gently extended one hand towards the bird.
Yuhan, still holding the reins, wrapped his arm around to support me.
“Yuhan…?”
Yuhan: “Just to be safe, I’ll do this. It would be dangerous if you lost your balance on horseback”
“Th-Thank you…”
I knew he was doing it out of concern for me, but I couldn’t help feeling nervous.
Perhaps sensing that… the bird, which had been staring at my outstretched hand, flew off somewhere.
“Ah…”
Yuhan: “Oh dear…
That’s too bad, [Name]-san.”
“Sorry, Yuhan.”
Yuhan: “Hehe… Please don’t worry.
Because I was able to wrap my arms around something far lovelier than a small bird… so I’m quite satisfied.”
“I-Is that so…?”
Yuhan: “Yes. So please… let me stay like this just a little longer.
Right now, we are… on the verge of a proposal… I… do not want to let go of the one I hold dear.”
“Yuhan…”
When I gave a small nod in reply… Yuhan, behind me, smiled softly.
The gentleness of his voice… for some reason, felt embarrassingly sweet just then.
⁓ After sunset ⁓
Having returned from our outing, we came to the “Hall of Vows” for the proposal.
Yuhan: “...[Name]-san. Thank you for spending today with me.
Thanks to you, [Name]-san, I was able to have a wonderful time.
Now, as the closing of such a day… would you allow me to speak the words of a ‘proposal’ to my partner?”
“...Yes. Let me hear them.”
Hearing my reply, Yuhan’s expression became more serious. So serious, in fact… that it was as if he were about to attempt a real proposal.
Yuhan: “Now then, in telling you my feelings, [Name]-san…
First of all, I must express my gratitude.”
“Gratitude…?”
Yuhan: “...Yes.
When I spend time with you, [Name]-san… the most ordinary of days takes on a beautiful glow. Or rather… as long as you are here, [Name]-san… perhaps ‘ordinary days’ cannot exist at all.
Every moment spent with you is so precious… that I feel loneliness as time passes by.
That is why… I do not wish to miss a single second of such time.
And from now on as well… I want to spend wonderful moments together with you, [Name]-aan.”
“Yuhan…”
Yuhan: “Therefore… [Name]-san.
Will you permit me to stay by your side for many years to come?
Compared to what you give me… what I can offer you in return may be modest.
Nevertheless, I swear I will give you… days so dear that when you happen to look back on them, you will cherish them.
…I will always do my utmost for you.
Please… live together with me. if you will grant this wish… then I will once again offer you everything I have.”
Yuhan’s words were sincere… and his eyes looked straight at me.
Feeling my warmth deep in my chest… I nodded at him.
Yuhan: “[Name]-san…
…Thank you very much.”
“Thank you for such a wonderful proposal.”
Yuhan: “Hehe… I’m glad it seems to have moved your heart, [Name]-san.
I must thank Seldor-sama, who gave us this opportunity.
Well then, the proposal is now finished, but… shall we enjoy this time just a little longer?
We went on a long ride today, so your feet must be tired. Please, have a seat here.”
“Okay.”
Following his prompting, I sat on a nearby chair… but Yuhan showed no sign of sitting down.
“Aren’t you going to sit, Yuhan?”
Yuhan: “No. There is still one more thing I need to do.
…[Name]-san. Would you close your eyes and count to ten?”
“O-Okay.”
Following his instructions, I finished counting… and slowly opened my eyes.
Yuhan: “...What follows from here… is a secret between the two of us.
Please… let me tell you, [Name]-san, my honest feelings.”
As I stared wide-eyed at the bouquet he held out… Yuhan continued with a smile.
Yuhan: “Beside a black rose… all other flower colors stand out, you see.
At first glance, this rose may seem plain… but in truth… I feel it is a flower that can carry out a wonderful role.
Like this black rose, quietly… I will stay by your side in life. And I will bring many colors to your life. Never withering, never breaking… I promise to bloom forever by your side.”
“Yuhan…”
The feelings he spoke along with the black roses… seemed even more like him than the proposal earlier.
Wishing to accept those feelings… I gently took the bouquet.
“Stay by my side from now on, okay?”
“Let’s keep blooming together.”
Yuhan: “Hehe… Yes. I’ll gladly make that vow.
And let us keep this vow… a secret between us, not telling anyone else. Not even other butlers who are so kind to us… nor Seldor-sama, who gave us this chance.”
“Yes. Let’s keep it our secret.”
Yuhan: “...Hehe.
Thank you.
From now on, I will strive to live even closer to you, [Name]-san. Because supporting you and quietly continuing to bloom… is my way of life.”
Saying this, Yuhan gave a small smile… and his bangs swayed slightly. Their glossy black colour… like the roses in my hands, was beautiful.
END
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