Alexei looked uncharacteristically flustered, but soon enough, as if he had made up his mind, he took the sword from his sisters hand. He put the sword to Ekaterinas shoulder, who was bowing down.

I, the Duke of Yurinova, Alexei, in deference to my Lady, accept the sword of my beloved sister Ekaterina, and in gratitude for Ekaterinas devotion, pledge to love and protect her forever and more.

With the flat side of the sword, he lightly struck her shoulderexcept he actually didnt.

That was not what happened. When Ekaterina looked up curiously to see what happened, her brothers hand had touched her cheek, and Alexei, who had bent down, kissed her forehead.

Kyaaaaaaaaaaa

Live! Come on! Dont blank out! Get yourself together! Stay focused!

While she was thinking of that, Ekaterina was gently pulled up with Alexei taking her hand.

Ekaterinas POV

Brother.isnt the way you just did that different from your usual manners?

Im sorryIm sorry, but I cant hit you. If I were to strike such a slender shoulder with such a rugged object, it would surely break. My heart would be broken if that happened.

He said in a troubled tone, and I felt as if my soul would fly out.

I wanted to scream, Youre so cute! at the top of the mountains of the Alps! I want to shout it out to the Alps! I dont know why the Alps, but I just wanted to!

I dont know what Im talking about!

3rd POV

When she gestured for him to bow his head, Alexei seemed to think she wanted to ruffle his hair again, so he chuckled and bowed his head.

Placing a hand on his shoulder, Ekaterina instead planted a kiss on Alexeis forehead.

Ive done it!

Without revealing her inner thoughts, Ekaterina smiled leisurely.

Ive heard that a tap on the shoulder is a good way to remember your vows. If thats the case, I think this will help me remember even better. This is the manner forward for the Duke of Yurinovas family, created by my brother. Ekaterina

Well, if you like it, it looks like Ive created something good. Alexei

Alexei bursts out laughing in response.

It is unheard of for a noblewoman to offer her sword to the head of the knight Order. However, your kind disposition, always wanting to give rather than to take nor be given, that is truly impressive and noble of you. Ekaterina, you are the noblest lady I have ever known. Alexei

The May sky was beautifully clear and blue.

The rose garden of Duke Yurinovas residence was perfectly arranged, without a single leaf or weed, and the colorful roses were in full bloom. As a light breeze blew across the garden, the fragrance of the roses wafted in the air.

A banner with the dukes coat of arms waved beside the knights on guard wearing their beautiful ceremonial clothes. The water gushing from the polished fountains glistened, creating a small rainbow.

Ekaterina stood beside Alexei, waiting for the carriage of the royal family to arrive.

In front of the main entrance of the Dukes residence in the Imperial Capital, in the large driveway wide enough to park several horse-drawn carriages side by side, a group of knights lined up in a neat row behind the two, holding up the national flags of the Imperial Kingdom and the coat of arms of the Duchies.