""Eh?!"" ［Amelia and Julius］
Loud and resonant screams echoed clearly across the whole castle as expressions of surprise were painted all over Julius and Amelia's face. One was simply shocked, covering her shyly, while the other had his hanging wide open.
It wasn't only the two. Although not as much, traces of surprise could be seen on the men's faces. But the lips of a certain someone amongst them quickly curled into a smile as soon as he regained his composure. That someone was none other than the mischievous King himself.
He has not yet said a single word but the Prime Minister could already feel an ominous premonition brooding over his mind. After all, whenever the King showed such a smile, it was always because he was up to no good.
"Wait, wait, wait, wait! What do you mean joining you? That's a Labyrinth, you know? A Labyrinth!" ［Julius］
"Hm? But weren't you the one who said you wanted a more eventful school break? Is there anything more eventful than going to a Labyrinth?" ［Yuna］
"I know, but that's... It's a Labyrinth, you know?" ［Julius］
Julius, who was just complaining not long ago, was not in complete disbelief. While he did say those words, he didn't mean it to be that eventful. Even for knights and trained personnels, Labyrinths are dangerous, after all.
But on the other hand, he might not get the chance to do it ever again. Not to mention he'll be with Grey and Yuna, meaning he'll be able to feast upon a lot of delicious dishes. He could also spend a lot of time with Amelia which was always a plus. There were just too many benefits.
Whilst the prince was conflicted over Yuna's suggestion, the other people in the room remained silent. Neither Grey nor the others were particularly against it. Actually, there was a certain man who was strictly in agreement with the suggestion. It was the same man who was wearing a worrying smile.
"Why don't you go, Julius? I think it will serve as a good experience for you and Amelia. You aren't against this, are you, Alfred?" ［Ernes］
"Well, if it were other people, I would be worried about sending my daughter in such a dangerous place, but since it's Their Highnesses they are with, I can rest easy. I also agree with His Majesty." ［Aflred］
"See?! What are you shying away for? Hahahaha!" ［Ernes］
"Father..." ［Julius］
A boisterous laughter, a shaky voice, and a depressed sigh. Such things echoed in the room at the same time. The most latter being from the Prime Minister as he resigned himself from correcting the King.
Meanwhile, Julius was in deep thought about Yuna's suggestion. He also asked for Amelia's opinion, thinking things thoroughly before they start regretting things. It wasn't too long before they reached an agreement.
"Haah... Alright, we'll be joining you." ［Julius］
"We'll be in your care again, Grey, Yuna." ［Amelia］
"Yaay～!" ［Yuna］
A bright smile was plaster over Yuna's face, extending from ear to ear. And while Grey was a little disappointed that he won't be able to be alone with Yuna as much, he was also delighted that they'll have more companions over the trip.
If there was a problem, it would be that school would be starting just about the same time the Labyrinth ends. He doesn't know if they'll arrive back on time even if they were to go full speed. But oh well, it's a problem they decided to cross once they get to it.
"Then... Since the Labyrinth of Flames would be opening up soon, why don't you take the teleportation gates?" ［Ernes］
"Your Majesty, I think that's a little too improper..." ［Anderson］
"You worry too much, Anderson. I'm sure everything will be alright! I'm the King, after all! Hahahaha!" ［Ernes］
"Your Majesty..." ［Anderson］
Teleportation gates, like what its name suggests are large devices which could allow people to transfer from one place to another in an instant. They are devices which only high-ranking nobles, royalty, and international organizations such as the guilds.
In the whole of Alfrione, there are only three teleportation gates present. One in the royal castle, one in the Elbourne Dukedom, the Prime Minister's territory, and one in the Redlocke Dukedom, further proving their rarity.
"I'm glad for your offer, Your Majesty, but I think we'll have to decline." ［Grey］
"Are you sure?" ［Ernes］
"Yes. I think our ways of travel are far more effective." ［Grey］
But it didn't matter how generous the King was, Grey still decided to decline the offer. After all, teleportation does not come without a cost. They were unbelievable things which would only be wasted if they used it willy-nilly.
There was the orthodox way which is using copious amounts of mana crystals as fuel, costing millions upon of kiels in a single activation. While it could transport a couple dozen people at once, it's still a waste of resources. It was the main reason why teleportation gates are only used in times of emergency.
And then there was the unorthodox method which Inlis used during the founding festival assault. They used sacrifices to do the act, disregarding the value of life. They really were trash which deserved to be eliminated from the surface of the world.
But well, no matter which method one uses, there are bound to be large costs. Not to mention that if they were to teleport to the Valliarta Empire, they'll need the consent of their Emperor. It was just a needless hassle.
"An effective method of transportation, you say... Is it alright to hear about it? Just out of curiosity, that's all." ［Ernes］
"I would also like to indulge in the topic. The safety of my daughter rests in this method of transportation, after all." ［Alfred］
"Well, actually... It's not much of a secret. We're just going to ride one of our familiars and fly over there." ［Grey］
"Wait! By familiars, you meant those dragons from before?! I'll go! I'll definitely go! I won't be missing this!" ［Julius］
The previous traces of hesitation were now gone from Julius' heart. As soon as he heard they'll be riding one of Grey and Yuna's familiars, it was quickly replaced with excitement. Not to mention they'll be flying. It was an opportunity not many people could encounter.
Amelia was also excited over the thought of flying in the sky. While she was also a little scared, her curiosity won out in the end. She was also looking forward to their sudden and unplanned trip towards the Labyrinth.
"Grey, you say fast, but how fast are we talking about? Eighty kilometers an hour? Or maybe a hundred?" ［Ernes］
"I haven't really measured it, but... If we don't take any stops, we should arrive there in two days' time. Ah! But don't worry, I'll set up a barrier so that Julius and Amelia would be safe from the wind." ［Grey］
"Hahahaha, I see... That's good to hear... So it's two days, huh... Huh?" ［Ernes］
A sudden realization came to the King as he looked around the room, his eyes full of disbelief, still not yet fully understanding the weight of Grey's word. He thought there was something wrong with hearing at first, but such was not the case.
"Grey, by these two days you mentioned... You meant arriving at the Empire's borders, right?" ［Ernes］
"No, I meant the whole journey. It'd be two days from here towards the Labyrinth of Flames. Actually, it might be even less than that." ［Grey］
"Un! Sirius is very fast! We just arrived from Galderia after traveling since this morning! She's really fast!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha, I see... I see... Is that really how you thought I would react?! Two days?! What do you mean by two days?! And what do you mean that you've arrived here from Galderia just in a single morning?! This is just plain absurd!" ［Ernes］
The King finally lost it after hearing that what he thought was a misunderstanding, was actually, in fact, the truth. Not only him, everyone else in the room was also in disbelief at Grey and Yuna's words.
Well, who wouldn't be? For a journey which usually takes a month or two with a carriage to only be completed in two days, it was just plain crazy. If it wasn't Grey and Yuna who were telling them it, they probably wouldn't have believed them.
"Haah... Seriously, you two... Fine, you can travel with that method. Just make sure to prioritize your safety first. And you should stay a couple of days in the royal capital while you're at it." ［Ernes］
"Eh? Why?" ［Yuna］
"Why? That's because we need to send the Empire a message first before you can go. Since you're with a prince and a lady of high-noble blood, it's a must. It could cause a problem with diplomacy, otherwise." ［Ernes］
It was the one of the few times that Ernes acted like a true King. He was actually thinking ahead of things responsibly rather than throwing it all to the Prime Minister. There sure are times where you get the unexpected.
"Then, since we're done here weー" ［Ernes］
Growwwlllll
The King was interrupted, and by a growl, no less. It was the growl of a certain stomach which was searching for something to eat. The source was none other than the lady whose face was now as red as her hair. It was Amelia.
While they have just eaten a couple of snacks, she still hasn't had a satisfying and proper lunch. Especially when they just wasted a lot of energy running away from the crowd, it was inevitable that she would go hungry. She was so embarrassed that she just wanted to hide herself away.
"Uh... Umm... That was me..." ［Julius］
In an attempt to lessen Amelia's embarrassment, Julius easily admitted to an act he did not commit. It was embarrassing, but if it's for his lovely fiancée, there wasn't anything he wouldn't do. He just earned himself some love points from Amelia.
"Well, since it's come to this, let's have lunch first, shall we?" ［Ernes］
"Yaay～! Lunch～!" ［Yuna］
"Yuna..." ［Grey］
Thankfully, the King knew how to read the mood. He also didn't want to embarrass his future daughter-in-law, after all. Though he was impressed with his son's courage. He was proud of him as a father.
Excitement looming over Yuna's face and Grey's expression full of concern for the former, the group headed towards the dining hall where they'll be having a grand feast as the King had ordered from the servants and royal chefs beforehand.
Unfortunately, not everyone could come. The Prime Minister still had some duties, the General needed to oversee the knights' training, and Alfred, being the Minister of Finance and Commerce, also needed to review some documents. In the end, all that were left were the King and the four youths.
As soon as they arrived at the dining hall, only silence greeted them. Since the Ling had a meeting and Julius was also just back from the guild, the other members of the royal family already went ahead and had their fill, hence the deafening silence.
"Alright, just take a seat anywhere. The food will arrive soon." ［Ernes］
And arrive it did. Shortly after they entered the room, a large number of servants and chefs entered with large plates at hand, bringing over dozens of high-class dishes until the whole table was filled to the brim.
The servants were also excited at the sight of Grey and Yuna. While they have seen them from afar, it was the first time they've seen the youngest heroes so up close. All of them were satisfied, their eyes filled with admiration.
"Waah～! There's so many! Can we really have this?!" ［Yuna］
"Hahahaha, sure, sure, go ahead! Eat until your stomachs are full!" ［Ernes］
"Un! I will!" ［Yuna］
A strange determination burning in her heart and her eyes burning with passion, Yuna quickly added a dish onto her plate, one after another. And since they were in the royal castle, she didn't forget to observe the table etiquette. She may be a little bit of a glutton, but she still has manners.
Seeing Yuna with just happiness, the others also followed suit and had their fill of the meal before them. It didn't take long before the dishes started to disappear one by one with the passing of time.
While Greg may be eating slowly, he didn't lose out to Yuna in terms of the quantity eaten. In fact, he may even have a bigger appetite than the latter. Seeing them eat so happily was truly a sight to behold.
"A... Amazing..." ［Ernes］
The King in surprise, lunch continued to ensue and it wasn't too long before all the dishes were gone from the dining table. Food which could serve about twenty people was finished with just five, or rather, because Grey and Yuna were there. It was an eventful and interesting lunch.
"Hahahaha, you really are good eaters! Julius should be like you! It's the reason why he doesn't have much muscles in him." ［Ernes］
"What do you mean, Father? It's called being lean. And please don't compare me to those two. I'm sure that even with all that, they're still not full." ［Julius］
"Oi, Julius, you're crossing the line." ［Grey］
"Huh? And am I wrong about it?" ［Julius］
"Are you picking a fight?" ［Grey］
The atmosphere about dining room quickly heated up with Grey and Julius starting yet another argument. Even when they're in front of the King, it doesn't stop them from bickering. Yuna and Amelia could only heave a heavy sigh as they watched the two.
Well, the King himself didn't really mind it that much. He also experienced such kinds of ruckus over the dining table when he was younger. He was Julius' father, after all. It was also as he reminisced that a certain idea entered his mischievous mind.
"Agh～ It sure would be nice if there are some sweets for dessert～" ［Ernes］
Such words came out of the King's mouth out of nowhere, his eyes looking at Grey and Yuna's direction. The two could only feel nothing but a bad premonition from it, especially after his lips curled up into a smile.
"Grey, Yuna, you don't happen to have some new desserts, do you?" ［Ernes］
And as one would expect, there really was nothing good behind the King's smile. As soon as Grey and Yuna saw it, they already expected such a statement sooner or later. Though they had hoped it would have been later rather than sooner.
Grey in particular wanted to refuse the King's words, but knowing his personality, there was no way of such a thing happening. He gave up even before he even had the chance to speak up. It was an unfortunate situation.
An annoying smirk plastered over the King's face, everyone headed towards the kitchen where Grey and Yuna will be making desserts for everyone. They might have just eaten, but there is always room for dessert.
"Carlton, we're using the kitchen." ［］
"As you wish, Yourー Ah! Lord Grey! Lady Yuna! You're here!" ［Carlton］
"Nice to meet you again, Mister Carlton." ［Yuna］
"It's been a long time, Mister Carlton." ［Grey］
"A long time, indeed! I did hear that Lord Grey and Lady Yuna have returned to the castle, but to think you're really here, it's still unbelievable." ［Carlton］
Brushing past the King himself, Carton quickly rushed over Grey and Yuna and gave them the warmest welcome. Thankfully, the man himself didn't really care much and just simply sat by a nearby table, anticipating what kind of dessert Grey and Yuna were going to make.
"Are you here to make a new dish again, Your Highnesses?" ［Carlton］
"Well, rather than a dish, we're going to make a dessert." ［Grey］
"Un! We're making cream puffs!" ［Yuna］
"Ohh～! Cream puffs! Yet another unfamiliar yet sophisticated name! I'm looking forward to it, Your Highnesses!" ［Carlton］
Carlton full of excitement, Grey quickly headed to the kitchen table along with Yuna, taking out a large number of things from his "Inventory". There was sugar, flour, eggs, butter, salt, cream, vanilla extract, and all things one would need to make pastry.
First, Yuna had the oven preheat, placing baking sheets over it. While she was doing so, Grey took the opportunity to mix the water, butter, and salt in a saucepan, heating it until the butter had melted, and bringing to a rolling boil.
Grey then removed the saucepan from the heat, and added flour to the mix, still continuing to mix the mixture until a perfect and smooth consistency was achieved, all the while making sure the mixture doesn't get burnt.
After which, he let the mixture cool down for several minutes until it was cold enough for him to not get burnt, transferring it over a mixing bowl and beating eggs with it until it became smooth again.
While Grey was doing the pastry, Yuna made the filling. She carefully poured the cream into a mixing bowl, whipping it at inhumane speeds until it looked smooth, adding vanilla extract for an appetizing scent. After which, she also made two more creams, one was chocolate, and the other lemon.
With the three creams done, Yuna quickly transferred them over a pastry bag for later use. Now, all that was left for her was to wait for Grey to finish, which didn't take too long. He was also near completion.
Grey quickly shaped the dough into round pieces, and when he finished, he then placed them into the oven, placed just enough distance apart for the dough to expand and bake into a golden brown pastry.
"Alright, all that's left is to waitー Huh?!" ［Grey］
"Fufufu, there's no need to be too surprised, Grey." ［Talia］
Surprise. That was all there is, not only on Grey's, but Yuna's face as well. As soon as they turned around to tell the good news, they were greeted by a couple of familiar and unfamiliar figures before them.
There was the Queen, Talia, the Crown Prince, Galleus, the Princess Royale, Iris. With them, there was also another woman who was about the same age as Julius and a child who was about two or three years old.
"I believe this is the first time we've met, Your Highnesses, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna. I am Natasha von Alfrione, the kingdom's Crown Princess and also Galleus' wife. It's a pleasure to meet you." ［Natasha］
"A-Ah, yes... The pleasure is ours." ［Grey］
"It's good to see you." ［Yuna］
Elegant and graceful, those were the things one would think of if they were to look at the Crown Princess. Unlike her husband, Galleus, she was a very prim and proper lady just like Amelia and Iris. It would seem only women in the royal family still have their dignities intact.
"And this is mine and Galleus' daughter, Natalia." ［Natasha］
"She got her name from Mother's and Natasha's names. She's still two years old, but she's already this cute, isn't she? Natalia, say hello." ［Galleus］
"He-Hewwo～!" ［Natalia］
Cute. No, very cute. The little princess was the cutest thing in the world. And as one would expect from a two-year old child, her pronunciation is still underdeveloped, though it only added to her cuteness.
But the one who fawned over the little princess the most was none other than Galleus and Julius. Both the father and the uncle were doting on her, smiling like idiots, and very proud of her even though she stumbled on her words.
During the founding festival, Natalia was sick and so she and her mother weren't able to attend. Galleus also wanted to stay with them, but as the Crown Prince, it was his duty to appear before the citizens. Though he did leave the party early and came rushing to his sick daughter's side.
But now that Natalia was free of any illness, she was as lively and as cute as ever. Grey and Yuna were fortunate enough to witness her cuteness. It really was the best decision to go on a trip.
"Hello, princess. Do you want to play with Big Sis over here?" ［Yuna］
"Yesh!" ［Natalia］
A critical hit. As Natalia smiled brightly at Yuna's invitation, she shone brighter than the sun, cuter than anything else, and more precious than any gem. They have been blinded, but there were smiles plastered over their faces.
Yuna on the lead, everyone played with the little princess. Of course, they made sure to only stay where there weren't any such and dangerous objects. Such a scene lasted until a certain, sweet and appetizing aroma wafted through the kitchen.
All eyes on him, Grey quickly stood up from his seat and headed towards the oven, slitting the pastries and filling them with all sorts of cream and sprinkled them with powdered sugar. With his hands moving at breakneck speed, it didn't even take a minute to finish.
"Here you go, little princess. Please have a bite." ［Grey］
And the very first one to have the pleasure of tasting the cream puffs were none other than the small and cute princess. Grey made sure to cool down the treat before handing it to the little lady.
With her small mouth and still incomplete set of teeth, the little princess quickly bit down on the cream puff, her eyes sparkling in silence as soon as she had a taste of it. She was so cute that Grey was having a hard time stopping himself from pinching her cheeks.
Not saying a word, the little princess, like a chipmunk eating her fruits, bit down on the cream puff time after time. And when she finished hers, she then looked at her empty hands with a little sadness, then looking towards the tray of cream puffs Grey was holding onto.
"Hahaha, was it tasty?" ［Grey］
"Yesh! Tashty!" ［Natalia］
Well, with how soft Grey's heart is towards kids, he didn't let the little princess wait for too long and gave her another. The others then also took one for themselves, enjoying it as much as the little princess does, watching over her warmly.
Warmth and joy over the kitchen, everyone had a happy time together as they chatted and laughed merrily. There was a little bit of mischief with the King, but with the Queen present, it was easily resolved. It was a joyous occasion.
CHAPTER 166 END