Crushing flags and claiming the Villainess

Valerie was excited. Her Lord hadn't told her where they were going, which made her both thrilled and slightly annoyed.

Annoyed—because without knowing the destination, she had no idea how to dress.

Thrilled—because just the thought of going out with her lover was enough to make her heart flutter.

She settled on a black skirt that reached just past her knees and a crisp white blouse. Black earrings and a touch of makeup completed the look. She had curled her hair and left it slightly damp—an idea Selner had suggested.

As she looked in the mirror, Valerie felt different. She was used to formal gowns and noble wear, but today, she'd chosen something more lively—something that suited her age and spirit.

"I don't look silly, do I?" she asked, just to be sure.

Selner gave her a quick glance before returning to her sweater, nodding as she replied, "He'll kneel the moment he sees you."

Valerie laughed softly. That gentle giggle lit up her face like sunshine.

She could hardly wait to see his reaction.

There was still half an hour to go, but she was too excited to sit still. So, she left early.

Austin had told her to meet him at the back gate that opened into the forest.

They weren't allowed to leave the grounds without permission—so naturally, they were sneaking out.

This is what I imagined our school life would be like, she thought.

They had spent so much of their time fighting danger—first Rhea, then the demons—that moments like these had become rare treasures.

And maybe that's why she couldn't stop smiling.

Avoiding the guards and sensors with ease, she made her way toward the northern gate.

I'll probably have to wait, she thought, knowing how early she had left.

But to her surprise, he was already there.

Leaning against a tree, mumbling to himself, Austin stood with his platinum hair messily combed. He wore a red checkered shirt and black trousers—casual and simple.

For a few seconds, Valerie just stood there, soaking in the sight of him.

Relief flooded her—he was casually dressed too. She had been nervous about showing up like this to a formal place, but now that worry faded away.

Austin sensed her presence, but for a moment, he said nothing.

They had been together for two years. He'd seen her in all kinds of outfits. He should have been used to her beauty by now.

But when she walked toward him with a shy smile, he forgot how to breathe.

And as she came closer, the only words he could manage were,

"Please go out with me."

Valerie chuckled, "But I'm already married to you."

Austin blinked, then rubbed the back of his neck. "It just slipped out. Sometimes I still can't believe I'm the husband of someone this beautiful."

A soft flush warmed Valerie's cheeks as she asked, "Where are we going?"

Austin's lips curved into a playful smile. "That's a secret."

Valerie blinked. "Is it far?" She glanced down at her slightly fancy sandals—marching any great distance in them didn't seem likely.

Without a word, Austin swept her into his arms.

"A–are we really going like this?" she stammered, cheeks coloring deeper.

He gave a reassuring nod. "Absolutely. Just hold on tight and enjoy the ride."

Not far off, a nearby professor heard their voices and hurried to investigate. But when he reached the northern gate, silence greeted him. He scratched his head, puzzled. "What was that noise?"

Meanwhile, hidden by the forest's edge, Austin was already streaking away—a blur to any normal eye, and only the keenest warrior might have guessed they'd passed. He wasn't breaking any rules; nothing said he couldn't move quickly once beyond the school grounds.

As they ran, he wrapped Valerie in his Absolute Barrier, ensuring her curls stayed perfect and her skirt didn't flutter wildly.

Valerie spent the entire journey staring at him. She didn't care where they were headed—her heart was content just holding her lord close and watching the sparkle in his eyes.

Austin kept running for about ten minutes before a quaint town came into view—the place where this year's Harvest Festival was being held.

The festival itself was a widespread tradition, celebrated in many regions. But according to Rudolph, this particular town offered a quieter, more romantic atmosphere—ideal for couples.

Trusting his friend's recommendation, Austin slowed down as they reached the town's entrance.

Of course, he'd already been here once before. On that earlier visit, he'd secured two entry tokens—for himself and for Valerie. That's why, even though others were lining up, no one stopped them as they entered side by side at a more relaxed pace.

Naturally, their arrival didn't go unnoticed.

People turned to look—not just because of the way Austin carried Valerie so gently in his arms, but because of how breathtaking the two of them looked together.

"God is truly unfair…" someone muttered.

"Ah~ what a beautiful couple. Just looking at them is healing my soul," sighed another.

"The young lady hasn't looked away from him even once."

"Damn it, get a room already!" a third voice groaned, half-joking, half-jealous.

But neither Austin nor Valerie paid them any mind.

Their world, for now, contained only the two of them.

"Val....we are here." He gently whispered before she finally looked around to see where she was.

Austin gently put her down as they both witnessed the town in its full glory.

The town was wrapped in a gentle warmth that didn't come from the sun—but from the people, the lights, and the joy that hummed through the air.

Cobblestone paths wound between quaint little houses, their windows aglow with soft lantern light.

Delicate banners fluttered above the streets, painted with harvest colors—amber, wine red, forest green—each telling its own story of the season's blessings. The scent of fresh bread, roasted corn, and spiced cider danced in the air, pulling hearts closer to the plaza at the center of town.

There, in the heart of the celebration, a large campfire crackled steadily. Families, couples, and groups of friends sat around it on wooden benches and cozy blankets, sharing quiet laughter and roasted treats. The fire didn't roar—it pulsed gently, casting a golden halo across smiling faces and glowing eyes.

Local musicians sat under a vine-draped gazebo, playing soft tunes with flutes, violins, and the occasional strum of a lute. The music didn't demand attention—it simply blended with the night, like a lullaby woven into the wind.

Children danced with paper lanterns, their laughter ringing like little bells in the breeze. Shopkeepers had set up modest stalls, offering handmade trinkets, woven charms, and warm drinks for the soul.

There was no rush. No shouting. No overwhelming crowd.

Just the hum of peace, the rhythm of hearts beating in harmony with the quiet music, and a thousand tiny moments strung together under a starlit sky.

Valerie's lips curved into a soft smile as her eyes took in the scene. "This… looks so beautiful."

Austin felt a quiet wave of relief wash over him at her words. Yes—this place, this moment—it had all been worth it.

Without needing to speak, their fingers found each other, interlacing naturally as they began walking hand in hand toward the glowing heart of the town.

They strolled without aim, letting the gentle rhythm of the festival guide them. Children ran past with giggles trailing behind like ribbons in the wind. Older villagers danced slowly around the campfire, their movements unhurried, drinks in hand, and laughter shared in hushed tones.

Then, a warm voice called out to them.

"Oh! Why are your hands empty? Here, have some bread."

It was a middle-aged woman, her cheeks slightly rosy from the fire's glow. She carried a large basket and had been handing out food to those who passed.

Valerie stopped, a little surprised. She smiled politely and reached out to take a single warm piece. "Thank you."

The woman's eyes sparkled. "You two look wonderful together. Don't hesitate to come back for more, alright?"

Valerie nodded, touched by the simple kindness, and watched as the lady turned and walked off, offering bread to the next group of passersby.

Looking down at the still-warm loaf in her hand, Valerie whispered, almost to herself, "I had forgotten… that kindness still prevails in this world."

Austin glanced at her—not with surprise, but with understanding.

Because in a world so often scarred by war, betrayal, and loss, moments like this felt rare. Precious. Almost unreal.

He squeezed her hand and said, "Let's forget about all that and enjoy our time here."

Valerie softly nodded.

The night was beautiful, stressfree.

The mood was set. The music was beautiful.

Austin turned towards his wife. His smile warm.

His hand went to her waist and the other one clasped hers.

Valerie shyly smiled, her gaze drawing down for a moment before she brought her hand to his shoulder.

They moved in rhythm. Enjoying the moment without a care in the world.

In this moment, they were happy.

°°°°°°°

A/N:- Thanks for reading.