"Yuna, did you prepare the lunchbox already?" ［Grey］
"Un! I've also included some snacks for the journey." ［Yuna］
"Ah! How about soaps and shampoos? Your toothbrush? No, actually, are you sure there isn't anything you forgot?" ［Grey］
"No, there isn't. Grey, you worry too much..." ［Yuna］
"I'm just making sure everything's alright. It would be bothersome if we forgot something, after all." ［Grey］
Hustle, rustle, and bustle. It was still early in the morning yet Grey and Yuna were already busy. Meals, necessities, and things of all sorts were prepared for their upcoming journey towards the Labyrinth of Flames.
Even though it has only been two days since they've decided to go, everything was all ready. They have said their goodbyes, bought all which needed to be bought, and of course, finished all their quests from their respective guilds. All that was needed was to head there.
"Alright, let's go!" ［Grey］
"Un!" ［Yuna］
Their passions through the roof, Grey and Yuna headed outside, locked their gates and set off to the great beyond. They passed through the gates and headed towards the dense woods to summon Sirius once more.
The wind howled and the forest growled. Soon enough, a platinum streak soared towards the vast sky of blue and white, her eyes as clear as the morning dew sticking on the verdant blades of grass, dropping on the wet ground.
Now, Sirius was even faster than before. Bursts of winds greeted her as he darted through the clouds, but she didn't slow down a single bit. She continued to fly, freely and swiftly like a raging storm. Not a single thing could stand in her way. Now, she was the undisputed ruler of the sky.
But their destination wasn't straight up north, rather, it was northwest. They weren't heading straight towards the Labyrinth of Flames, but the royal capital which wasn't as far off. There was something which needed to be done first.
Yesterday, as they said their temporary goodbyes to the guild, in an unexpected turn of events, the Guildmaster asked them to deliver a package to the royal capital's branch. They don't know what was inside the package, but it was easy to guess that it was full of documents or something of the sort.
Of course, it wasn't just because of the task that they are heading to the capital. They are also looking forward to seeing everyone again after a couple of months. There's also the fact that there's a lot of snacks and sweets to buy there, something Yuna especially looked forward to.
"Waah～! I wonder how everyone's doing!" ［Yuna］
"Yuna, really you... You should be more careful, you might fall off with how energetic you are..." ［Grey］
"Teehee, sorry!" ［Yuna］
Yuna apologized but she didn't look sorry at all with such a large smile on her face. She was swaying her body side to side like an excited child hiding a merry-go-round for the first time. She was just too energetic.
An unfading smile on Yuna's face, the journey continued and after a few hours, they finally arrived in the capital. A long journey which usually takes about two weeks was shortened dozens of times. It was all thanks to Sirius' incredible speed and stamina.
As usual, there was a long line in front of the gates. It wasn't even the busy hours yet it was already comparable to Galderia's long lines. The royal capital really deserves its title as the busiest city in the whole kingdom. It was only to be expected with its overwhelming size and population.
"Looks like this is where'll part. Thanks for everything, Sirius." ［Grey］
"Goodbye, Sirius! Let's play later, okay?" ［Yuna］
"It was my pleasure, Master. And Mistress... I'll be waiting for your call." ［Sirius］
Gentle fragments of light burst in the air as the large platinum figure returned to the shadows, leaving only Grey and Yuna behind. They departed soon after, heading towards the southern gates where they entered before, too.
Of course, it was a given that they'll be using their alternate identities. After all, the people's reception of them in the capital was much more intense than in Galderia. Who knows what kind of chaos will happen if the people know they have returned.
Grey and Yuna passed through the gates without much problems and their very first destination was none other than the capital's Adventurers' Guild. Although not as packed as before, it was still a busy place, not losing out to the gates in terms of the number of people present.
"Good day, how may I help you?" ［Receptionist］
Thankfully, along with the large number of adventurers and clients, there was also a large number of skilled receptionists to handle them. It didn't take too long before it was their turn in the reception desks.
"Good morning, too. Is the Guildmaster around? We have a package to deliver to him from the Galderia branch." ［Grey］
"Ah, did you make an appointment? If not, I'm afraid it would be hard to schedule a meeting right now. I apologize, but it's a part of our procedures." ［Receptionist］
"An appointment... Sorry, we haven't made one, but we do have a letter with us from Galderia's Guildmaster. Would that be alright?" ［Grey］
"Hmm... As long as it's a legitimate letter, then a meeting is plausible. May I see the letter, please?" ［Receptionist］
The receptionist thought for a little while before answering, making Grey and Yuna a little bit nervous. Thankfully, there were other ways other than an appointment. They were glad they didn't have to wait for long.
Grey quickly handed the letter, making it seem like he grabbed it from inside his coat. The receptionist then quickly read the letter's contents, and in an unexpected turn of events, the receptionist's face was quickly painted with shock and disbelief, her eyes widened and sweat starting to trickle down her forehead.
Seconds passed and the receptionist read the letter at an erratic pace, her heart beating faster with anxiety. The contents were hard to believe, but with the authentic seal on the bottom, it was hard to deny it. Her reactions only made Grey and Yuna curious about the letter's contents
"I-I apologize for my rudeness, Your Highnesses. This way, please." ［Receptionist］
Well, it didn't take long for Grey and Yuna to realize what was contained there. They may not know the full content, they knew that the Guildmaster mentioned something about their true identities. It was clear with a single glance at the receptionist.
The receptionist, still nervous and trembling a little, Grey and Yuna were led towards the Guildmaster's office. The journey was awkward but there was nothing they could do with it. The receptionist was just top scared like a timid rabbit.
"G-Guildmaster, T-Their Highnesses, Lord Grey and Lady Yuna are here. They are requesting an audience with you." ［Receptionist］
It was formal. In fact, too formal that now, it was Grey and Yuna who were feeling uncomfortable with the receptionist's treatment of them. They didn't know if it was out of fear, respect, or maybe both. It was really confusing.
"Oh? Lord Grey and Lady Yuna...? Alright, please let them in." ［Velzier］
"Y-Yes!" ［Receptionist］
The door creaked and soon opened, revealing a familiar scenery inside. As soon as she finished escorting the two in the office, the receptionist quickly bowed her head politely before running off like a scared kitten, her face a little pale.
Though Grey and Yuna felt a little bad for the receptionist, there was only so much they could do. In the first place, such reactions were the reason why they were using disguises in the first place. They were either too respectful or enthusiastic, nothing in between. It was really troublesome.
"Sorry for the sudden visit, Guildmaster." ［Grey］
"Haha, it's alright... Anyway, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna, what brings you here? I don't believe it's only for a friendly chat, is it?" ［Velzier］
"No, you're right. We're here on Guildmaster Gaston's request. There's a package he wanted to send over the capital branch." ［Grey］
"Oh, Guildmaster Gaston... I see, I understand now." ［Velzier］
The very moment he heard the mention of Gaston's name, the Guildmatser quickly understood why Grey and Yuna were there. While it was true that it was a sudden visit, in his perspective, it was a welcome and pleasant surprise.
Not wasting another moment, Grey quickly took out the package Gaston asked them to deliver. It was a large and heavy box which was wrapped in magic paper. Well, to Grey and Yuna, it was not heavy at all. They could lift it with one hand, no problem.
Just as Grey and Yuna had suspected, what was inside of the package was a bunch of documents. To be precise, it was a large number of papers and contracts which are related to the guild's dealings. The Galderia branch's monthly report.
"Hmm... Everything's right here. Thank you very much, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna. With this, I should be able to finish my job earlier." ［Velzier］
The documents which were supposed to arrive after a couple more weeks were now in his hands with a lot of time to spare. The Guildmaster couldn't be any happier and pleased. It took a large load off his mind.
"Oh, right... Was this taken as a quest from the guild?" ［Velzier］
"Well, rather than a quest, it's more like an errand per say... We just happened to head here so the Guildmaster asked us to deliver this along the way." ［Grey］
"Un! We're heading to the Labyrinth of Flames in the Valliarta Empire! And this time, we're going to conquer it!" ［Yuna］
"Oh, the Labyrinth of Flames, huh... So it's that time again. This brings back memories when I was still an active adventurer..." ［Velzier］
A reminiscent expression was plastered over the Guildmaster's face as he recalled the times he experienced long ago. Although they were all now just distant memories from the past, they were precious fragments of the past he truly treasures.
"Waah～! So the Guildmaster had been there before, right?! I heard there's a lot of snow there!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha, true, it couldn't be any more contradictory. Actually, it was the first Labyrinth I've ever challenged. I've made quite a lot of memories there." ［Velzier］
"Really?! Then, can you tell us some, please～!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha, it's my pleasure." ［Velzier］
Prompted by Yuna, Velzier started telling stories about his past when he challenged his party members with his old party members. Although they could only advance up until the 3rd floor, they were still satisfied with the results. They earned quite a lot too.
After which, he and his party challenged the other labyrinths, and gradually became stronger, delving deeper and deeper each try. Their record was up until the 6th floor where a lot of C-rank monsters are present. A record not many people can achieve.
The story telling continued and time slowly passed by. Thankfully, the Guildmaster's work was almost finished and there was still some time to spare. It would have been troublesome otherwise. The stories only stopped when it was time for lunch.
"See you next time, Guildmaster!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Yes, until next time, and good luck on your journey." ［Velzier］
"Un!" ［Yuna］
Their business finished and their stomachs about to growl, Grey and Yuna exited the Guildmaster's office and out into the opme lobby where a lot of adventurers were still present. The guild was really bustling.
They were about to leave when, suddenly, Grey stopped on his tracks. In the corner of his eyes, he saw two familiar figures by the quest boards. He didn't know who they truly were, but there was an unsettling feeling of familiarity, he just couldn't point his fingers into it.
⟨⟨Appraisal⟩⟩ ［Grey］
-----------------------------------
[Salferine]
[Name] Julius von Helvor Alfrione
[Race] Human
[Sex] Male
[Age] 18
[Status] Healthy
[Mana Capacity] 365 [Mana Quality] E
[Combat Power] 148 [Threat Level] E
[Attribute] Lightning [Magic Proficiency] Intermediate (26%)
[Class] Lancer [Weapon Proficiency] Intermediate (25%)
[Physical Enhancement] 28%
[Ability]『Sharp Sense (2☆)』
-----------------------------------
[Salferine]
[Name] Amelia von Redlocke
[Race] Human
[Sex] Female
[Age] 18
[Status] Healthy
[Mana Capacity] 359 [Mana Quality] E
[Combat Power] 143 [Threat Level] E
[Attribute] Flame [Magic Proficiency] Intermediate (25%)
[Class] Python [Weapon Proficiency] Intermediate (26%)
[Physical Enhancement] 27%
[Ability]『Detection (2☆)』
-----------------------------------
And to his surprise, they really were people he knew. He just couldn't tell easily since the two were under the guise of illusion magic, just like they were. The two were out in the guild in incognito, hiding their identities.
Still, he was pleasantly surprised that they had finally reached E-rank in just a matter of four months. They are now about three times stronger than when they last met. He felt proud that he could call them his students, albeit only temporarily.
"Grey, is something wroー Waah～! Amelia!" ［Yuna］
An energetic squeal came out of nowhere as soon as Yuna saw Amelia. She didn't even need Grey's help, she immediately figured out who she was at first glance. It left Grey a little shocked. Sometimes, women are just plain terrifying.
Excitedly, Yuna rushed towards Amelia and when the latter was in range, she captured her in a tight embrace. Thankfully, she was controlling her strength, otherwise, Amelia would have been hurt in ways more than one.
"Eh? Ah? Huh?" ［Amelia］
Of course, being latched on all of a sudden is bound to make one surprised. A mix of bewilderment, surprise, and shock could be seen in Amelia's face as she tried to figure out the identity of the girl tightly clinging on to her.
"Erm... You areー" ［Amelia］
"Eh?! Don't tell me... Yuna?!" ［Julius］
"Teehee!" ［Yuna］
But oh well, the first to figure out was none other than the kingdom's second price, Julius. His face was even more shocked than Amelia as his large, booming voice occupied the stagnant air. A voice which could make one subconsciously cover their ears with their hands.
Hurriedly, Julius then covered his mouth after realizing what he just did. But to his surprise, none of the surrounding adventurers minded his voice, or rather, it would be better to say that it seemed like they didn't hear anything at all.
"It seems like you're still as loud as ever, Julius." ［Grey］
"Ah, Grey..." ［Julius］
Everything was all thanks to Grey. As soon as he saw Yuna rushing over to Amelia, he immediately set up a sound-proof barrier around them, knowing the unpredictability of Yuna's actions. He was glad he made the right choice.
"Don't worry, I've already put up a barrier around us. No one should hear our voices no matter how loud we are." ［Grey］
"Haah... Thank God..." ［Julius］
A sense of relief entered Julius' heart as soon as he heard Grey's words. After all, it would have been problematic if such a trivial thing led to their identities being discovered. All their efforts in going incognito would have gone to waste.
"No, actually, why are you two here? I haven't heard anything about this." ［Julius］
"Have you forgotten, it's because we're adventurers. In the first place, I should be the one asking you that question. Why are you, a prince, and Amelia, a duke's daughter, in the Adventurers' Guild?" ［Grey］
"Hey, can you stop emphasizing our status? It's got nothing to do with it. And if you're asking the reason why we're here. You should ask yourselves first." ［Julius］
"Hm? What do you mean?" ［Grey］
Both Grey and Yuna were in a state of confusion at Julius's words. It was only then that Julius and Amelia started explaining about the happenings in the royal academy after they left. A change neither of the two anticipated.
Apparently, after Grey and Yuna's temporary job in the royal academy, the students felt like the training was too simple. They couldn't feel the rush of a true fight. Not only that, they also felt that their strengths were stagnating. Even the instructors were surprised at their sudden growth.
In search of a better training regime, one of the students headed towards the guild and so it began. First, there was only one. Then one became two, two became three, until suddenly, all students of alpha class, years 2 and 3 are registered in the guild.
Normally, the students would only go on the guild during weekends or whenever they have holidays. But now that it's the school break, many students take quests four or five times a week, some even taking them daily, hence the reason for Julius and Amelia's sudden surge in strength.
Now, Julius and Amelia could proudly say that they could take on their seniors without much trouble. The battle experience they've built up during quests was the most important thing they acquired throughout the three years of their school lives.
"I see, so that's how it is... Does the Royal Academy know of this?" ［Grey］
"Ye. From what I've heard, they're already considering being an adventurer to be added to the curriculum." ［Amelia］
"Right, and it's all because of two certain people who just arbitrarily decided to train the students, spartan style. It's quite an achievement, isn't it?" ［Julius］
"Oi, can you stop it. It's not like we wanted to do that in the first place." ［Grey］
"Yeah, sure, sure. Whatever you say..." ［Julius］
It's just like they said. The Royal Academy is now devising a way to let the students train in a more practical environment. The only thing that's holding them back is the dangers of adventuring, something they could nor simply decide on willy-nilly.
Whilst talking about the changes in the academy, the four of them were already out in the streets, walking with no particular destination in mind, just going wherever their feet took them, all the while taking their sweet time to catch up on one another.
It would have been better if Elise and Elaine were with them, but sadly, they weren't. With the school break, many students are heading back to their respective territories and Elise and Elaine just happened to be amongst those students. Grey and Yuna were informed over a phone call.
"Right, Grey, do you have something sweet to eat?" ［Julius］
"Huh? Don't you have chefs back at the castle? Ask them if you want a snack, just ask them to cook you something." ［Grey］
"Well, yeah, that's right... It's just that they always cook the same thing. It's getting boring. I'm sure you have something on your storage ring. Come one, spit it out, and it'd be better if it's something I've never had before." ［Julius］
"Oi, you bastard, just what do you think I am? A food dispenser?" ［Grey］
What was supposed to be a touching reunion between friends now turned into a childish quarrel between the boys. As for the girls in front of them, they could only smile wryly as they watched the two continue their bickering.
"Amelia, should we stop them?" ［Yuna］
"Hmm... I'd love to, but I have a feeling they'll still continue arguing after a short while. I think it's better to let them tire out first. The scolding can go later." ［Amelia］
"Mmn... True, I don't think Grey will also back out... By the way, Amelia, Grey created something called 'Mochi' a little while ago. Would you like to have a bite?" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu, yes, please." ［Amelia］
It was so much more peaceful on the Grey's side. One could vaguely see flowers and sparkles flutter in the air around them as they enjoyed the sweets together. Bright smiles were blooming on their faces as they savored them.
On the front, two goddess-like ladies were happily enjoying the mochis, and on the back, two demons continued to argue. There wasn't any greater contrast. Such a scene continued to take place until...
"Stop, you fiend! I won't let you take any more lives any further!"
"Hahaha! I'd like to see you try!"
An eye-catching play along the streets caught their attention. There were a lot of people around the said open theater. It was only a small-time business but it was gathering a lot of attention. The children were especially excited.
The only thing that was bothering Grey was the familiarity of the scene and people being played in the scene. There was a black-haired man, a silver-haired elf, a couple blonde heads, and a muscular ash-haired man.
Grey shuddered at the thought which entered his mind as he observed the play play out. He didn't want to believe it, but there were just too many resemblances. A cold chill ran down his spine with each passing second.
"Wait, Julius, that... Don't tell me..." ［Grey］
"Ah, right. It's a play about the events during the founding festival, featuring the heroes and their feats. It's getting popular nowadays." ［Julius］
It was just like he feared, it really was a portrayal of their achievements a couple months ago. Extreme embarrassment filled his heart, cringing involuntarily every time the actors spouted nonsensical lines. He just wanted to dig a hole and hide there.
In the first place, the actors bore no resemblance to them save their hair colors. The one playing him was a man with a scar on his eye, and the body of a skinny thug. As for Yuna, it was a pale woman with fake eyelashes and too much make-up for her own good. It was hilarious, for Julius, that is.
"So cool...!" ［Yuna］
"No, Yuna, it's not cool! It's embarrassing!" ［Grey］
"Hahaha, looks like you've met your match, Grey." ［Julius］
As Julius' laughter echoed in the air, Grey's embarrassment only worsened. He really wanted to stop the play, but he couldn't. He didn't want to be crowded by the people, after all. He was stuck in a dilemma.
Such scenes unfolding, a certain figure walked a couple meters behind them. He was clad in heavy armor and had a large and muscular build which easily surpassed that of knights. He was a domineering figure.
He was about to head towards wherever his destination was, but when he saw those four figures before them, he suddenly stopped. He could only see them from behind and their hair colors were different, but there was no way he could mistake their silhouettes for others.
"Your Highnesses!" ［???］
A booming voice echoed in the air as the man opened his mouth. It was loud to the point that everyone's attention was quickly directed towards him. It was at that moment that an impending doom brewed in the four's hearts.
CHAPTER 164 END