Several months passed before anyone noticed.
Since Kana and Natsumi's visit, the relationship between Byakuya and Kiyoko had rapidly deepened.
Mainly because they had both spoken openly about their feelings and decided to marry by year's end.
However, before the wedding, they would naturally need to meet Kiyoko's parents.
Otherwise, when it came time to register the marriage, they wouldn't even have witnesses.
Since Byakuya had no parents in this world, it would be best for Kiyoko's family to serve as witnesses.
"Kiyoko, what kind of gifts would your parents like?"
Before setting out, Byakuya wanted to select presents, so he asked Kiyoko.
With their wedding so close, he no longer used "Kiyoko-nee"—he simply called her Kiyoko now.
"Anything is fine, really. They're not particular about these things."
Kiyoko said.
"I see..."
Byakuya thought for a moment. "Then I'll just get some fruit and nice food."
...
After buying a large bag of various fruits and delicacies at the shopping center, Byakuya and Kiyoko traveled to the countryside—to Kiyoko's hometown.
They met with Kiyoko's parents.
They appeared to be in their fifties or sixties, not looking particularly aged.
"Kiyoko finally brought a boyfriend home. We've been waiting so long."
"What are you saying, old man? He's not just a boyfriend—he's her fiancé. Our Kiyoko and Byakuya are getting married soon."
"Oh right, right. My mistake. Her fiancé, hahaha."
Kiyoko's parents seemed very welcoming of Byakuya as their son-in-law.
After all, Byakuya's personal qualities were virtually unmatched, and their daughter had finally agreed to marry someone.
"Father, Mother—I've come to take Kiyoko as my wife."
Byakuya was completely direct, without any beating around the bush.
"Wonderful, wonderful! Get married whenever you like. We're entrusting Kiyoko to you."
"Indeed. We can finally rest easy."
Kiyoko's parents grew more fond of their son-in-law the more they looked at him.
"Mm. I will never let Kiyoko be treated unfairly."
Byakuya nodded.
"Actually, why don't we just register the marriage in the next few days? It's more convenient here in the countryside."
Kiyoko suggested directly.
"That works."
Byakuya readily agreed.
The two of them then prepared the necessary documents for marriage registration.
They printed out and completed the marriage application forms.
With Kiyoko's parents as witnesses, they went to the civil affairs office to register their marriage.
The process went smoothly, though there was one small moment—the staff member was startled by the age difference between Byakuya and Kiyoko.
According to their documents, the gap was nearly twelve years.
But for Byakuya and Kiyoko, this was a trivial matter.
After all, with Byakuya's power and the System's assistance, both he and those close to him could achieve virtual immortality.
Soon, Byakuya and Kiyoko's marriage certificate was in hand.
What's more, Kiyoko Aura changed her name to Kiyoko Amaha.
In Japan, there was a tradition of wives taking their husband's family name.
After registering their marriage, a wedding banquet was naturally indispensable.
Byakuya and... Kiyoko Amaha, the newlyweds, were about to enter the bridal chamber...