Afterwards, they boarded a carriage alongside the Marquis and arrived at the central square, and ascended a spire.
As they were guided to a tower that tourists never fail to visit, Marquis Phold began his introduction with evident pride.
“This is the Clock Tower, a pride of Yantilia.”
They were at the top of a tower constructed of red bricks, designed to provide an unobstructed view of the city. True to its reputation as the largest port city of the south, Yantilia was remarkable in scale.
Behind the bustling town, comparable to the capital, the shimmering blue sea sparkled like scattered jewels. Looking at it made the heart clear that truly made them feel on vacation. The scene, with sunlight pouring down between the white seagulls fluttering like sky lanterns across the blue sky, was reminiscent of a famous painting.
“The cityscape from here is truly superb.”
The Marquis said with a hearty laugh. Anne, resting her hand on Daymond’s arm, followed the Marquis as he pointed out various buildings.
“The city seems bustling, probably due to frequent trade. It must be thanks to your attention to detail, Marquis.”
“My doing, you say? It’s all thanks to the efforts of the people of the territory.”
Contrary to other nobles who often attribute the prosperity of their territory to themselves, the Marquis attributed all credit to his people. Anne responded agreeably, appreciating his decent character. Meanwhile, Daymond stood quietly beside her, seemingly unimpressed.
“Next, I will show you—”
“Marquis Phold.”
Interrupting the Marquis as he was about to introduce the next destination, Daymond cut him off sharply.
“The truth is, we are currently on our honeymoon, so we wished for some undisturbed time together.”
“Yes? A honeymoon?”
Weren’t you here for vacation? The Marquis blinked in confusion. His surprise was understandable, as according to his information, Grand Ducal couple Cromund had been married for quite some time.
“We recently held our belated marriage ceremony and are now on our honeymoon.”
At Daymond’s succinct reply, the Marquis’s mouth fell open in realization, then his eyes sparkled with understanding.
“Then you’ve come to the right place. Yantilia is the city of romance, perfect for a honeymoon.”
There was a crack between Daymond’s eyebrows, who still saw the marquis who continued his words saying that he was full of affection.
He thought the Marquis would understand and stop at this point, but the Marquis was pretty tactless. People say that they resemble the environment, he was a relaxed and easy-going person like the city.
“Then, I’ll take you to the city center often frequented by couples. I used to visit them quite often when I was younger…”
It was time when Daymond, who had been keeping his dissatisfaction to himself because it was in front of Anne, finally opened his mouth to dissuade the excited Marquis. Instead of Daymond, Anne quickly stepped up first and asked for understanding.
“We appreciate the offer, Marquis, but we wouldn’t want to impose on your valuable time. How about we join you for dinner in a few days instead?”
Finally catching on, the Marquis nodded. Though his longing gaze lingered as if he was reluctant to leave the Grand Duke and Duchess.
Not long after, the Marquis invited them to an upcoming banquet, begging them to attend before departing with his entourage.
“Is that settled, then? Shall we explore the city center, as the Marquis suggested?”
“Sounds good.”
With the Marquis finally gone, Daymond’s mood lightened and he nodded with a light face as if it didn’t matter.
They headed towards the bustling Lombard Boulevard, their next destination, with the servants quietly following behind.
As the most prosperous region, to say it was the continent’s second capital, they truly lived up to its reputation. Anne was now experiencing first hand Yantilia’s prosperity, largely due to its strategic port location next to the sea. The city was lively with trade and was buzzing everywhere she went.
“These are statues imported from the western lands. Just having one in your home is said to bring divine protection.”
“Rare medicinal herbs available only from the far east.”
Merchants selling all sorts of rare items shouted from large stores to small stalls. While there were shops selling everyday items, those offering exotic goods from foreign lands were considerably more prominent.
Anne observed the lively scene with keen interest.
“Daymond, what’s that?”
“That’s pottery from the Principality of Ferint. The patterns mimicking plant forms and the handle around the neck are characteristic of that region.”
“You seem to know everything. It’s all new to me…”
“Well, I’ve lived quite a while. I always need to have what I want.”
Saying so, Daymond held Anne’s hand tightly as if he’d never let go. Anne immediately understood the implication of his words, aware of all he had done to make her his.
“Right, of course. How could I forget we have plenty of such pottery at home?”
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