Chapter 13
The barracks were alive with movement, the steady rhythm of disciplined footsteps echoing through the stone pathways. Soldiers, clad in sturdy armor, moved in well-practiced formations, their swords clanking against their belts as they trained under the watchful eyes of their superiors. The scent of sweat, metal, and damp earth filled the air, mingling with the crisp scent of the morning breeze.
The large training ground stretched wide, a testament to the sheer size of the military force stationed here. Some men sparred in designated areas, their wooden practice swords clashing in swift, controlled strikes. Others were tending to their weapons, oiling blades and inspecting armor, their hands calloused from years of combat. In the farthest corner, fresh recruits were being drilled, their rigid stances betraying their inexperience as their commanding officer barked orders at them.
Despite the rigorous atmosphere, a sense of camaraderie hung in the air. These men were not just soldiers; they were brothers-in-arms, forged by war and bound by loyalty. And at the center of it all, commanding unwavering respect, was their general—Ryousuke.
The moment he stepped into view, every soldier within range immediately straightened, their salutes crisp and practiced. Their eyes followed him as he passed, admiration and awe evident in their gazes. Ryousuke carried himself with the ease of a seasoned warrior, his presence alone enough to command obedience. He was not just their leader—he was a legend, a man whose victories in battle had secured their kingdom's safety countless times.
He was dressed in his usual dark uniform, the heavy fabric tailored for both mobility and authority. His long coat, lined with silver embroidery, billowed slightly as he walked, a silent reminder of his status. Though he had yet to speak, the soldiers whispered among themselves, wondering what their general's mood was like today.
"He looks calmer than usual," one murmured.
"Maybe he's in a good mood," another speculated.
"I doubt it. General Ryousuke is always calm—right until he's not."
A chuckle rippled through a small group, though they quickly stifled it when Ryousuke's gaze swept over them. Even a simple glance from him was enough to send shivers down their spines.
He carried out his duties efficiently, inspecting reports, issuing orders, and ensuring everything within the barracks was running as it should. His soldiers were disciplined, well-trained, and battle-ready. That much was evident.
Once his work was done, he made his way toward the stables, where his horse was being prepared for his return home. As he neared, a familiar voice called out behind him.
"Oi, General."
Ryousuke didn't need to turn to know who it was.
His second-in-command, Daichi, was one of the few people in the military who spoke to him so casually. A seasoned warrior in his own right, Daichi had fought alongside Ryousuke for years, earning both his trust and the occasional tolerance of his boldness.
Ryousuke slowed his steps as Daichi caught up to him, a smirk tugging at the man's lips.
"So, how's the little spouse of yours?" Daichi asked, eyes gleaming with curiosity.
Ryousuke gave him a sidelong glance. "He's fine."
Daichi scoffed. "That's all? 'He's fine'?" He shook his head, clicking his tongue. "Come on, General, give me something. What does he look like? Is he soft and delicate like a porcelain doll? Or is he one of those stubborn types who acts like he's tougher than he is?"
Ryousuke simply continued walking, his expression unreadable.
Daichi grinned, undeterred. "Why don't you bring him here sometime? Let us meet him. I'm sure the men would love to see what kind of person managed to tame the great General Ryousuke."
At this, Ryousuke finally let out a chuckle, deep and low. It was rare to hear, but when it came, it was always unsettling—mostly because one could never tell if it was amusement or a warning.
He stopped just beside his horse, turning to face Daichi fully. "You think I'd let my wife anywhere near the likes of you?"
Daichi blinked, caught off guard. "Eh?"
Ryousuke smirked. "He's too precious for your eyes."
A beat of silence passed, then—
"You wound me, General." Daichi placed a hand over his chest in mock offense. "What, do you think we'd corrupt him? We're not that bad."
Ryousuke tilted his head slightly, his smirk widening. "Talk about him again, and I just might cut off your tongue."
Daichi stiffened.
The soldiers within earshot also froze, exchanging uneasy glances.
For a moment, the tension was palpable. Then—
Daichi let out an awkward laugh, scratching the back of his head. "Wow. You've gotten meaner than you were before."
Ryousuke swung himself onto his horse, gathering the reins with ease. "Have I?"
"Yes, and it's terrifying."
"Good."
With that, Ryousuke nudged his horse forward, leaving Daichi standing there, still processing the exchange.
As the general rode off toward his estate, the wind rustled through the barracks, carrying whispers of the conversation among the soldiers.
One thing was certain.
Their general had changed.
Here's the revised version with Nori correctly portrayed as a man:
Ryousuke rode steadily along the main road, his dark uniform catching the early light as he made his way back from the barracks. The streets were busy with people starting their day, and as he passed through the bustling market district, he noticed how quickly the crowd fell silent before erupting into respectful salutes. Citizens, vendors, and laborers alike bowed their heads or murmured greetings, their eyes gleaming with admiration. Even the usual clamor of the market seemed to pause momentarily—every passerby keenly aware that this was no ordinary man but the renowned general, a living legend.
As he neared the heart of the market, a sudden, enthusiastic shout broke through the ambient hum.
"Steamed buns! Roasted duck! Finest in the city!"
A vendor stood behind a modest stall draped in colorful cloths, his voice cutting through the murmur of the crowd. The savory scent of roasted duck and the soft warmth of freshly steamed buns filled the air.
Ryousuke slowed his horse, his sharp ears catching the vendor's call. A small, almost imperceptible smile touched his lips. Perhaps his husband, Nori, would enjoy something warm and familiar. It had been a week since their wedding, and though things had settled, Ryousuke knew Nori was still adjusting. A simple gift, something as small as a well-prepared meal, might make him feel more at home.
With an effortless dismount, Ryousuke strode toward the stall. The vendor's eyes widened in a mix of awe and panic, hands fumbling to adjust the arrangement of the food.
"Oh, my lord!" the vendor stammered, bowing deeply. "Would you like to—uh—purchase some steamed buns and duck?" His voice wavered, as though he could hardly believe that the formidable general had taken an interest in his humble wares.
Ryousuke's voice was calm, yet firm. "Yes. I'll take a few."
The vendor scrambled to prepare the best selection, carefully wrapping the food. When Ryousuke reached for his coin pouch, the vendor waved his hands frantically.
"No, no, my lord, please! It's an honor! I wouldn't dare take your money—"
Ryousuke fixed him with a cool, unreadable stare. "Take it." He placed the gold onto the stall's wooden counter, the finality in his tone leaving no room for argument.
The vendor swallowed hard, nodding in gratitude as he backed away, allowing the general to take his purchase.
With the basket secured, Ryousuke remounted his horse, his mind briefly wandering to how Nori might react. He had learned quickly that his husband was not as docile as some might have assumed. Nori was gentle, yes, but he was sharp. Intelligent. Someone who, despite his sheltered upbringing, had an undeniable presence when he chose to exert it.
A presence that had just made itself known.
Once back on his horse, he urged it into a steady trot toward his estate.
The journey back was uneventful, save for the occasional villager stopping mid-step to bow as he passed. By the time the gates of his estate came into view, Ryousuke had already settled into the familiar rhythm of home.
However, as soon as he rode through the entrance, his steward rushed toward him, face pale with urgency.
"My lord!" the steward called, breathless.
Ryousuke dismounted with practiced ease, his expression immediately hardening. "What happened?"
The steward hesitated for a split second before blurting, "It's the side concubine, my lord."
Ryousuke sneered. "What about her?"
The steward wiped his brow. "Young Master Nori ordered her punishment."
For a moment, silence stretched between them.
Ryousuke's grip tightened around the bundle of food in his hands. "Punishment?"
The steward swallowed nervously. "Yes, my lord. Forty strokes of the cane. She was caught stealing."
Ryousuke let out a sharp exhale, his irritation clear. "And you're only telling me now?" His tone was dangerously low.
The steward quickly bowed. "My deepest apologies, my lord. The moment it happened, I sent word, but you were already at the barracks."
Ryousuke's gaze flickered toward the grand entrance of the estate, his jaw tightening.
Nori had always been quiet and composed, but he was no fool. If he had taken action, there must have been a reason.
Still, Ryousuke hadn't expected things to escalate this way. He had no love for the side concubine, but the matter of how to handle her had never been discussed between them.
Would Nori think Ryousuke resented him for this? Would he be afraid of his reaction?
Taking a deep breath, Ryousuke composed himself.
"Where is Nori now?" he asked.
"In his chambers, my lord," the steward answered.
Ryousuke nodded. "Prepare hot tea." He glanced at the bundle in his hand. "And bring a plate."
Without another word, he strode toward the inner halls of the estate.