Chapter 11

In the heart of Forget-Me-Not Valley, where early Fall paints the landscape with hues of amber and gold, Mark diligently tends to his farm. The days have settled into a comfortable routine, a quiet symphony of chores and responsibilities. With the sun's gentle warmth on his back, he cultivates the soil, sows seeds, and tends to the vibrant Fall crops that have become a daily routine. The farmstead, once a solitary expanse, now thrives with the addition of his wife.

Keira has seamlessly woven herself into the fabric of farm life. Gone are the days of isolation and uncertainty; her role as Mark's wife has found its rhythm. Mornings begin with the aroma of breakfast wafting through the cozy kitchen, the work of Mark's skilled hands. As Mark sets off to tend to the fields, Keira often sits in front of the television set learning about modern culture. She then heads over to the dig site where she lends a hand to Carter and Flora in their historical pursuits.

The afternoons see them reunited, sharing a simple yet heartfelt lunch at the table. Mark's return is a moment of celebration for Keira, a pause in their day to cherish each other's company. Evenings find them side by side, basking in the warm glow of their modest TV, as the world outside fades into the background. Though their life together may not mirror the grandeur of happily ever afters of fairy tales, it's a harmonious existence they've come to enjoy, each day etching new memories in their shared journey.

This particular afternoon, bathed in the soft hues of early Fall, emerges as a turning point in Mark and Keira's marriage. The tranquil equilibrium is shattered as an unexpected visitor bursts into their midst. It's young Hugh, his youthful energy fueling the urgency in his voice. Breathless, he delivers news that sends ripples through their peaceful existence. With wide eyes, he implores, "Come quick! Muffy, she's just had her baby, and she's asking for you both!"

The announcement hangs in the air, a jolt of excitement that disrupts the familiar cadence of their day. Mark and Keira exchange swift glances, a silent accord forming between them. It's a summons they cannot ignore, a reminder that life in the valley is woven with moments that defy predictability, moments that remind them of the bonds they share with their friends and neighbors. With a shared nod, they hasten to respond, the farm momentarily forgotten in the wake of this unexpected call to adventure.

Without hesitation, Mark and Keira rush from their farmhouse, the urgency of the situation propelling them towards Dr. Hardy's clinic. Their feet beat a hurried rhythm against the dirt path, their hearts echoing the urgency of young Hugh's summons. The clinic's facade soon comes into view, nestled among the other buildings like a sanctuary of care. As they push open the door, the familiar scent of antiseptic and medicinal herbs washes over them, soothing their racing nerves. Dr. Hardy, with his steady hands and comforting presence, welcomes them with a warm smile. Inside the clinic, the valley residents crowd around Muffy and her husband Griffin.

Mark and Keira step closer to the clinic bed, their arrival parting the gathered residents as they make way for the couple, eager to join in welcoming the newest member of their close-knit community. Lying serenely on the bed, they find Muffy cradling her precious bundle, a tiny, fragile creation of life wrapped in the gentle arms of her mother. Their hearts swell with warmth and wonder as their eyes lock onto the newborn's face. She possesses Muffy's striking emerald eyes, a captivating glimpse of the mother's spirit, and Griffin's chestnut hair, a testament to the father's enduring legacy.

With a genuine curiosity, Mark breaks the poignant silence, his voice a soft ripple amid the room's hushed awe. "What's her name?" he asks, eager to share in this momentous occasion.

A tender smile graces Muffy's lips, radiant with maternal pride. She replies with a voice filled with warmth and conviction, "Me and Griffin decided to name her, Myo."

The room comes alive with a symphony of reactions, joyous chatter, and exclamations of approval. Yet amid the cheerful cacophony, Keira remains in a state of gentle shock. Her royal upbringing, with its palace walls and structured isolation, had never exposed her to such intimate experiences of life. Surrounded by friends who had become her family, she found herself confronted with the miracle of birth, a reality that felt at once extraordinary and inexplicable, leaving her to ponder the intricacies of existence itself.

Days have slipped by since the birth of Muffy and Griffin's child, but for Keira, it's as if the momentous event continues to unfold within her mind. She sits at the rustic table in their cozy farmhouse, sunlight streaming in through the windows to cast a warm glow over their lunch. A plate of fresh curry lies before her, but her appetite is far from present. Instead, her thoughts wander to the miracle of life she had witnessed at Dr. Hardy's clinic. Every time she tries to eat, she's haunted by the image of the newborn's fragile, yet unyielding grasp on existence.

As she stares blank into space, Mark notices her distant demeanor, her untouched food slowly cooling on her plate. Before he takes a bite of his food, he asks, "Keira, is something bothering you?"

Keira looks at Mark and asks, “Do you think maybe we should have a child of our own?”

The air in the room freezes to a halt as Keira's words hang in the space between them. Mark's eyes widen with astonishment as he grapples with the implications of her question, the food in his mouth gets lodged in his throat as shock takes hold of him. A coughing fit seizes him, and Keira is quick to react, moving to his side in concern.

"Mark, are you okay?" she inquires, her voice laced with worry, her gentle hand on his back offering solace.

After a few coughs, Mark manages to regain his composure, though his eyes still hold a bewildered glint. "I'm fine," he finally says, his voice a bit hoarse. "But... Did you just say you wanted a baby?" he asks, as if needing confirmation that he heard her correctly.

Keira's face reddens noticeably, and she tucks a strand of her long black hair behind her ear, her fingers nervously dancing. "Well," she begins in a somewhat embarrassed tone, "I am your wife, after all. And as your wife, my sworn duty is to provide you with an heir, be it a prince or a princess." Her gaze flickers away from him for a moment, her cheeks painted with a rosy hue.

As Mark processes Keira's words, a whirlwind of thoughts and questions storm through his mind, leaving him bewildered and uncertain. Does Keira genuinely desire to have a child, or is this merely a fleeting notion stirred by the birth of Muffy's baby? Are their lives and relationship prepared for the responsibilities and challenges that come with parenthood? And, perhaps the most daunting question of all, does Keira's desire signify an openness to a more intimate aspect of their marriage?

Each inquiry casts a shade of crimson over Mark's cheeks, and his embarrassment deepens with each passing moment. The weight of the implications of Keira's request presses down on him like a heavy burden. In the span of just a few words, their marriage has veered onto a profoundly different path, one fraught with profound decisions and life-altering consequences. Mark, in the midst of this emotional tempest, grapples with the enormity of the choices that now lay before them.

Feeling overwhelmed by the weight of Keira's request, Mark finds himself needing a moment to clear his thoughts. "I, um, need some fresh air, I’ll be back later!" he stammers, face flushed with embarrassment. He pushes his chair back, hastily stands up, and practically flees from the house, leaving Keira behind, her question hanging in the air like an unspoken promise. Mark's destination is the Blue Bar, where he hopes to find Muffy, who might offer guidance in this uncharted territory of their marriage.

As Mark explains the situation to Muffy, she listens attentively, her expression shifting from curiosity to amusement. After he finishes, Muffy can't help but chuckle. "So, let me get this straight, Mark. You think Keira's sudden baby fever is all because of Myo making her appearance?"

Mark blushes, his embarrassment growing as he realizes how absurd his initial notion sounds. "Well, when you put it that way, it does sound a bit funny," he admits, feeling somewhat foolish. He quickly regains his seriousness. "But still, Muffy, this is serious! I left Keira back at home, and I don't want to go back until I figure this out."

Muffy then sighs, gazing at Mark with a hint of sadness and a touch of hurt in her eyes as she softly asks, "Mark, are you saying that you don’t want to have any kids?"

The weight of Muffy’s words bears down heavily on him, causing a deep sense of unease. It has been quite some time since he and Keira tied the knot, yet the complexities of their union never cease to challenge him. Mark struggles to articulate his feelings, "It’s not that I don’t want any children. But you need to understand, Muffy, this isn't a normal marriage. I do in fact care deeply for Keira, and I hope that our relationship can someday grow to a point where I feel more comfortable with the idea of being a parent. The truth is, we still hardly know each other. We never had the opportunity to date or get to know one another like most couples do. We simply tripped into this marriage, now we’re just drifting around like an ocean without a compass. I have no idea what I’m doing. I never thought in a million years that Keira would take this marriage so seriously. I'm just at a loss at what to do from here. If I say no to her, will that break her heart? But if I say yes, and something goes wrong, then what?"

As Mark comes face to face with the profound decision looming before him, his mind drifts back to his own father, a man he barely knew in his formative years. The absence of paternal guidance leaves a void within him, one he silently vows never to replicate. The reality that there's a chance his marriage to Keira may fail after the birth of his child is something he can't simply ignore. The thought of potentially bringing a child into this world and then failing to provide them with the presence and affection they deserve haunts him. Mark's deepest fear is that history might repeat itself, and his relationship with his own child could mirror the estranged one he had with his father. It's a chilling prospect, one that weighs heavily on his already burdened heart.

As Mark pours out his anxieties to Muffy, she begins to grasp the depth of his concerns regarding having a child. She realizes that his hesitation isn't rooted in a lack of affection for Keira, but in the fear of history repeating itself. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Muffy gently suggests to Mark that perhaps it's time for them to explore a different aspect of their relationship.

"Mark," she says, her voice filled with compassion, "maybe what you two just need to start over. You know, a bit of old-fashioned dating. Spend more time together, get to know each other on a deeper level, take back that time you had to skip. Building that connection can make the idea of starting a family seem less scary. I can tell that you've got a great woman back at home, but it's okay to take things slow and steady with her."

Mark's face lights up with realization, a hopeful smile gracing his lips as he understands the wisdom in Muffy's words. It dawns on him that building a deeper connection with Keira, one founded on genuine affection and understanding, might be the key to dissolving the uncertainties that have loomed over their marriage. He envisions a future where they're not just cohabiting strangers but a loving couple working together to shape their destiny.

His heart brimming with gratitude, Mark turns to Muffy and exclaims, "Muffy, you're absolutely right! Thank you, this is the perfect solution!" The weight of his concerns begins to lift as he starts to see a path forward, one where he and Keira can truly fall in love and become the devoted, married couple they both aspire to be.

As Mark strolls back to the farm, his mind is a whirlwind of thoughts, planning the steps he needs to take to bring himself and Keira closer together. He envisions dates, simple yet heartfelt, that will allow them to explore each other's worlds more intimately. Picnics by the shimmering pond, where they can share stories of their pasts under the shade of a sprawling tree. Quiet evenings watching the stars, hand in hand, as they ponder life's mysteries. Perhaps even a visit to a cozy library, where they can discover shared interests and new passions. With each idea, Mark's determination grows, knowing that he has a mission ahead to nurture the bonds of their marriage into something deeper and more meaningful.

Back at the house, Mark settles down with Keira for a heartfelt conversation. He gently suggests that, for the time being, they set aside the topic of children and, instead, focus on something else – dating. Keira, with her deep curiosity, can't help but inquire, “What is a date?”

Mark chuckles warmly as he embarks on his explanation, “A date is when a couple goes out and spends time together to get to know each other and build a connection. Typically, people go on dates before they get married. I realize it may seem strange given our situation, but I believe it could help us grow even closer. What do you think?”

Keira tilts her head in mild perplexity. The concept of dating, after all, seems somewhat foreign to her, even more since they are already married. Yet, she senses Mark's sincerity and the significance he attaches to this idea. Thus, she readily agrees, saying, “Very well, I shall accompany you on this date. How shall we proceed?”

“Well,” Mark begins thoughtfully, “I don't have any deliveries tomorrow, so I think we should go out after work.” Keira nods, signaling her assent to this new adventure in their relationship.

As Mark slips beneath the covers that evening, a sense of anticipation fills his heart, and he finds himself unable to suppress a smile. Thoughts of their upcoming date with Keira dance through his mind like fireflies in the night. He envisions her selecting the perfect outfit, perhaps a delicate dress that highlights her regal grace and charm. He wonders which color she might choose to wear, picturing her in an ensemble that complements her striking hair and eyes.

Mark's mind races with ideas for their date, pondering the activities that will help them bridge the gap between them to become a truly connected couple. Perhaps a leisurely stroll through the village, exploring hidden nooks and crannies, or sharing stories over a candlelit dinner at the inn. He imagines their laughter echoing through the tranquil valley, their hands brushing gently as they walk together, and the subtle yet undeniable connection that continues to blossom between them. With each thought, Mark's excitement deepens, and sleep eventually claims him, carrying him into a night filled with dreams of the delightful date that awaits them.

The next day, as the work on the farm is completed, Mark patiently waits for Keira to get ready for their special date. His heart flutters with nervous excitement, an odd sensation for a married man, yet the prospect of an official date with the princess he shares a home with fills him with anticipation. Mark had spent the entire day meticulously planning out several dates over the coming days, hoping to create moments of heartfelt memories. If fate is on his side, perhaps he might even find the courage to steal their first kiss, marking a new chapter in their relationship.

As Keira emerges from the house to join Mark, he can't help but feel a twinge of disappointment. In his anticipation, Mark had imagined that Keira might dress up a bit for their date, wear something unique to mark the occasion. Perhaps add a touch of makeup or style her hair differently. However, she appears no different from her usual self. Although Keira looks stunning in her yukata, Mark had expected something special for their date. Nevertheless, her natural beauty still shines, and he graciously escorts her to the inn to begin their outing.

In the cozy atmosphere of the inn, Ruby takes note of their orders. Mark opts for the day's special, a curiosity that promises to surprise his palate. On the other hand, Keira sticks to her tried-and-true choice, ordering the familiar comforts of curry and a steaming cup of tea. As they sit across from each other, Mark gently asks Keira to share a slice of her life. Her response, while informative, falls short of Mark's expectations, and a subtle pang of disappointment tugs at him. She speaks of her royal lineage, her destiny as heir to the Hanabishi kingdom's throne, and the life she was groomed for—an existence that is no longer is a reality considering the kingdom has fallen long ago. Keira just concludes that she now lives in the farm with him as his wife instead. Mark listens attentively, wishing to delve deeper into her world. Yet in the end, learns nothing new about her.

To keep the conversational fire burning, Mark shifts the focus to himself. He recounts his own life's journey—the city lights he once called home, his upbringing, stories of his parents, and his transition to farming in the tranquil valley. Keira lends her ear to his narrative, finding his story fascinating. However, despite her genuine interest in Mark’s story, she was not inspired to think of anything new to tell about her own life.

Once their dinner concludes, they make their way back home. Mark sighs, feeling that they didn’t get any closer. Yet he holds onto the hope that the upcoming dates will offer them the chance they need to deepen their bond, ultimately uncovering the intricacies of each other's lives.

The following day, Mark has a simple yet thoughtful plan—a picnic. It's an outing Keira has experienced with Muffy and her friends before, and Mark hopes that this casual setting might encourage her to open up more. As they settle down on the blanket amidst nature's embrace, Mark finds himself awestruck by the vision of his radiant wife sitting elegantly before him. Keira's elegance shines through as her hair gracefully fans out on the blanket, glistening in the warm embrace of the Fall sun.

With hope in his heart, Mark gently begins the conversation, inquiring about her dreams and aspirations. However, her response is somewhat disheartening. Keira expresses her desire to become a suitable queen to Mark's farm, a dutiful partner in their unique marriage. As Mark continues to ask questions, hoping to unearth more of her interests, the conversation stagnates. Keira's responses remain confined to watching TV and aiding Carter at the dig site. Despite the picturesque setting, their picnic gradually loses its luster, and an air of boredom settles in. In less than an hour, they decide to pack up and return home, where the familiarity of their television awaits.

Eager to break free from the monotony that has been permeating their dates, Mark decides to take Keira to a new location: Mineral Town's library. He hopes that this change of scenery will encourage Keira to open up and provide more insight into her world. Walking hand in hand through the quaint streets, Mark can't help but feel a sense of optimism. The library, with its shelves of knowledge and tales of far-off lands, seems like the perfect place to unravel the mysteries of his enigmatic wife. As they step inside, Mark's heart brims with anticipation, and he prays that this venture will lead them one step closer to the connection he so ardently desires.

As they browse the shelves, Mark initially reaches for a couple of comedy novels, thinking they might bring a bit of lightheartedness to their time together. However, in the spirit of their date, he decides to trade them for a selection of romance novels, imagining the two of them cozying up at home while he reads to her. Yet, when he presents the novels to Keira, she counters with books focused on war and politics. A faint sigh escapes Mark's lips as he realizes that he cannot simply erase the princess-like aspect of Keira's personality.

He eventually selects one of the books she's interested in, feeling somewhat defeated. Back home, as Keira immerses herself in her chosen literature, Mark finds himself unable to engage with the intricate world of royalty and the politics behind it. Once again, his attempts to bridge the gap between their interests have fallen short, leaving him with a lingering sense of frustration and longing for a deeper connection with his wife.

The following day, Mark returns to his normal duties around the valley. Throughout the long day of work on the farm, Mark's thoughts are dominated by the complex emotions stirred by Keira's desire to have children. On one hand, he longs to make her happy, to fulfill her dreams and desires. He envisions a future where they are a family, a sense of warmth and togetherness that he never experienced growing up. But on the other hand, he's acutely aware of the weight of responsibility that comes with parenthood.

As he tends to the needs of the valley residents, Mark grapples with a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. He questions whether they are truly ready for this monumental step, whether their relationship has had the time to grow and solidify into the kind of partnership that could raise a child. The uncertainty gnaws at him, making him realize that they need more time to build a foundation for their future before they can confidently embark on the journey of parenthood. But at the same time, how much time will they need? Mark and Keira are two completely different people, forced into a marriage suddenly. They get along well for now, but will that remain the same once a child is involved? How will Keira raise a child with the mentality of a princess in the modern day, and will Mark be able handle the cultural differences between them?

The sun has long dipped below the horizon when Mark finally returns home, exhaustion etched into every line of his face. The farm is dark, and you can hear the owls hoot in the distance. His day in the fields may have been physically demanding and the trek around the valley makes his legs hurt, but it's the mental struggle that weighs most heavily on him. He's arrived too late to catch Keira awake, and the house is cloaked in silence as he moves through it. Gently, he peeks into her bedroom, seeing her sleeping peacefully. His heart aches with uncertainty, knowing that he has yet to fully answer her question. He slowly walks in, careful not to wake her up just yet.

Mark lingers beside Keira's slumbering form, his thoughts torn between his longing to fulfill her desire for a child and his own uncertainty. In his mind's eye, he envisions the tender moment of waking her, her drowsy gaze meeting his, realizing his willingness to grant her wish. The temptation tugs at him, urging him to take the plunge and give her what she yearns for. He imagines her reaches out to him, inviting him to the bed to create the child she wants. But just as suddenly, an overwhelming sense of unease floods over him, and he retreats from her side. As much as he wants to meet Keira's wish, he realizes he's not ready, and the timing isn't right. With a heavy heart, he silently departs from her room, leaving her in peaceful slumber.

As another day unfolds in the tranquil valley, Mark still grapples with the weight of his indecision regarding Keira's heartfelt request. Today, he opts for temporary delay, deciding to hold off on giving her a definite answer until he can reconcile his emotions and thoughts. Instead, he throws himself into his work, fervently tending to his farm while his mind remains mired in contemplation.

By afternoon, the allure of the mine beckons him, and he ventures into its depths to gather more artifacts for Carter and Flora's ongoing research. Returning with his findings, he's met by the perceptive gaze of Flora, who senses his inner turmoil and inquires gently, "What's bothering you?"

Mark attempts to deflect with a feeble excuse, muttering, "Just tired, that's all."

Unfazed, Flora persists, recognizing that Mark's unease likely stems from matters of the heart, particularly involving Keira. Mark eventually yields to her curiosity, revealing the intricacies of Keira's desire for a family and his well-intentioned attempts to strengthen their connection. In response, Flora playfully flicks his forehead and offers sage advice, "You're going about it all wrong, you big goof!"

Perplexed, Mark raises an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

Flora leans closer, her voice tinged with wisdom as she imparts, "Keira isn't like other girls here. You can’t just force her into the modern age and expect things to go right. To get closer to her, you'll need to meet her on her own terms, at her level."

A glimmer of hope begins to dawn in Mark's eyes as he absorbs Flora's advice. "How do I do that?" he inquires eagerly.

Flora responds with a reassuring smile, ushering him into her tent where she unveils maps and guides him through her plan. "The key to unlocking Keira's heart is to reconnect her with her roots," she explains. With a slender finger, she points to the eastern villages on the map, the very places where Keira's people settled after the fall of Castle Hanabishi.

The realization suddenly dawns upon Mark. Taking Keira to a place that feels familiar and close to her heart could indeed strengthen their bond. Despite Carter's assertions that much of the culture may have been lost, some remnants surely remain. The only obstacle that looms is the considerable distance; a casual day trip is out of the question.

Mark expresses his concerns, "How do you expect us to make such a journey? It would take an entire day just to get there."

Flora, her hands confidently resting on her hips, presents her solution with unwavering conviction. "Well," she begins, "I know you've already tied the knot, but have you ever considered a honeymoon? This could be your chance to spend a few days alone with your wife, truly getting to know each other among her roots."

Mark's realization hits him like a sudden burst of sunlight through the clouds. In the midst of the valley's tranquil routine and the gradual blossoming of their marriage, he had somehow forgotten a vital chapter – their honeymoon. Their union had been awkward, both of them navigating through it like uncharted waters. Keira's inability to speak or communicate further complicated matters then. In those early days, Mark's focus had been divided and unsure. But now, with those hurdles behind them, a honeymoon emerges as the perfect opportunity to make up for lost chapters of their story together, to bridge the gaps that had existed between them. The prospect of bringing Keira to the descendants of her own people ignites a new hope within him, a promise of change, growth, and a deeper connection between them.

Grateful for Flora's invaluable advice, Mark thanks her profusely before leaving her tent. With renewed determination, he makes his way back home, his heart brimming with excitement and hope for the future.

Upon arriving home, Mark finds Keira, still engaged in her usual activities. With a warm smile, he approaches her, his voice filled with anticipation. "Keira," he begins, "I have a wonderful idea. How about we go on a honeymoon together?"

Keira, her curiosity piqued, blinks inquisitively at Mark. "A honeymoon?" she asks, her voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty. "What is that?"

Mark's enthusiasm shines through as he eagerly explains. "A honeymoon is a special trip that married couples take together. It's a chance for us to spend some quality time alone, away from our daily routines, and truly get to know each other. We can explore new places and create beautiful memories together."

Keira's eyes light up with interest, and a spark of excitement ignites within her. "That sounds wonderful, Mark! Where would we go?"

Mark's face lights up as well as he shares his plans. "I was thinking of taking you to Konohana, one of those eastern villages. It's a place where some of your people settled long ago, and it might help you reconnect with your roots. Plus, it's a beautiful and serene place, perfect for our honeymoon."

Keira gasps with excitement, her eyes lighting up at the thought of visiting a place where her people had settled. She rushes closer to Mark and jumps with pure happiness. "I'd absolutely love that, Mark! Let's go to Konohana for our honeymoon and explore the village together!"

Soon enough, Mark and Keira begins preparations for their honeymoon. They start by getting a pamphlet to learn about their trip and learning what they need to pack. As Mark and Keira plan for their honeymoon to Konohana, Mark takes the responsibility of finding someone trustworthy to look after the farm during their absence. He knows just the person for the job – Takakura. Mark approaches Takakura and explains the situation, to which Takakura readily agrees. He assures Mark that the farm will be in good hands and that they can enjoy their time away without any worries.

Word quickly spreads throughout Forget-Me-Not Valley about Mark and Keira's upcoming honeymoon. The villagers, always supportive of the couple, decide to organize a little send-off celebration. They gather at the farm, bringing gifts and well-wishes for them. The atmosphere is filled with excitement and joy as everyone looks forward to the couple's time away and the adventures they will have in Konohana. It's a heartwarming moment for Mark and Keira as they feel the warmth and camaraderie of their valley community, making them even more eager for their upcoming journey.

On the day Mark and Keira for their honeymoon in Konohana, they gather with the residents of Forget-Me-Not Valley on the outskirts for a heartfelt goodbye. Their friends and neighbors shower them with well-wishes and fond farewells, each person sharing their excitement for the couple's adventure. All of their friends offer their blessings and prayers for a safe trip and eagerly await their return. With hugs, laughter, and a touch of nostalgia, Mark and Keira bid farewell to the place they've called home, setting off on a journey that promises new experiences and a deepening of their bond. As they make their way to Mineral Town to catch the train, their hearts are filled with anticipation for the adventures and discoveries that await them in Konohana, a new chapter in their married life beginning with the love and support of their dear valley friends.