Incompatible Interspecies Wives

Chapter 165: Hidden Truths (1)

Even amidst the cheers of countless people, I couldn't bring myself to relax my expression.

Some might sacrifice everything just to be in this position.

A chance to rise in status.

Who would refuse that?

But why?

I felt nothing but sadness.

Not even a hint of joy touched me.

Maybe it was because I knew I was receiving the title in place of Adam Hyung.

Perhaps that's why his absence felt even more pronounced.

Or maybe it was because I could foresee what was to come.

I slowly turned my head to look at my wives.

They, too, seemed to sense how our relationship would change... shedding empty tears.

****

Once all the announcements were made, the capital erupted into a festival.

All the citizens sang songs and shouted the names of the heroes.

The food that had been saved was brought out, and everyone started to fill their stomachs heartily.

Glasses clinked everywhere, and laughter blended into the air.

Except for us.

I walked into my quarters.

Though I said nothing... Ner and Arwin followed me in.

-Thud.

The door closed naturally behind us.

I stood there in silence for a moment.

After a long stretch of silence, Arwin finally spoke.

"...Congratulations, Berg."

Her voice held no trace of joy.

I turned to face them.

As expected, Arwin wore a forced smile.

"I never thought you would become the head of the house... Truly, congratulations."

"..."

"...So, my name will change too, right? Arwin Reiker...? I'll be giving up my long-held surname... but I'm so happy-"

"-Ha."

I cut her off with a short sigh.

Arwin fell silent at that sigh. Her eyes started to waver even more.

As if she could predict what I would say next.

Ner began to move her lips, trying to persuade me.

"...I, I'll help you a lot."

"..."

"...It's a new family. There will be many dangers moving forward without help. I'll make sure to watch out for you."

"..."

"Oh, right. And, congratulations. I really... didn't expect this at all. And... and..."

I wanted to stop this whole charade of a conversation.

We were already anticipating the future that would befall us.

Even though the complex emotions inside me made me hesitate... there was also a certain sense of relief that I could finally let go of all this pain.

"...We."

As soon as I opened my mouth, Ner and Arwin fell silent.

"The first reason I got involved with you was... to survive."