Clack Clack Clack
Footsteps echoed on the massive and spacious halls time after time as the morning sun started to rise. Rather than the clucking of roosters or the morning bell, such was what greeted people as they woke up in the morning.
There was also the scent of flowers from a nearby garden and the sweet smells of the bedroom from a variety of perfumes and fresheners placed all over the room. It was as luxurious as one would expect from one of the royal castle's guest rooms.
"Gwey... Wuv you..." ［Yuna］
Still half asleep, Yuna snuggled closer to Grey as she embraced him tightly, listening to the sound of his heartbeats with a satisfied smile on her face. His warmth, comfort, and scent made her feel safe and secured, hugging even tighter by the second.
After yesterday's events, Grey and Yuna passed time by playing a lot with the little princess. As soon as the sun set, they then had dinner and they were offered a room by the King, one they couldn't refuse with his extreme persistence.
And as one would expect from royalty, the room was very grand and massive, beating the previous rooms they have stayed at by leaps and bounds. The bed, the couches, the drawers, the closets, and everything there was in the room was very luxurious, costing thousands each.
The King also offered to have some servants cater to them, but the two immediately refused without a second thought. After all, their privacy would be on stake if they thoughtlessly accepted such a proposition. Of course, they wouldn't be doing such things in other people's homes, but still, they wanted to rest in private.
"Yuna, let go for a moment." ［Grey］
"No... Cuddle..." ［Yuna］
"Come on now, we still have to prepare for the day. It's almost 7 o'clock already. We'll be late for breakfast." ［Grey］
"No... Stay... Cuddle..." ［Yuna］
She was now in spoiled-child mode. Despite Grey using breakfast to his advantage, Yuna didn't budge and just continued to snuggle closer to him. Her clinginess was off the charts that even Grey doesn't know how to deal with her.
Clack Clack Clack
As Yuna continued to cling onto Grey, the sound of heavy footsteps echoed in the air. The closer the footsteps drew, the louder they became, until it suddenly stopped. The owner of the footsteps stopped right in front of Grey and Yuna's room.
BANGGGG
Suddenly, a kick struck the doors. Even when it was locked, it was quickly opened with the force behind the kick. As for the one who did such an act, it was none other than a blonde-haired woman with a stomach which is already bulging.
"Rise and shine, you two!" ［Vanessa］
A smug expression was plastered on Vanessa's face as she forcefully broke through Grey and Yuna's room, startling the two who were just flirting not too long ago. Even the half-asleep Yuna was quickly woken up, her face red as one can be and her face feeling feverish.
As for the one who suddenly intruded, she didn't really care much even when she intruded on their privacy. Despite being pregnant, Vanessa's energy wasn't any lower than before. If anything, she only became more energetic and mischievous.
"Ah... Please excuse me and continue what you were doing. Big Sis will be back in an hour. Hurry up with it, okay?" ［Vanessa］
"Big Sis Vanessa, it isn't like that! And you should have knocked first before entering! What would you feel if someone entered your room like this?!" ［Grey］
"Hmm... Nothing in particular, I guess... Do Grey and Yuna want to enter my room? We can head there now if you want." ［Vanessa］
It was a very Vanessa-like answer. An answer which left Grey utterly speechless as he reevaluated what he thinks of the former. If she was a troublesome older sister before, now she was a troublesome and airheaded older sister. One even more annoying.
Meanwhile, Grey and Yuna's embarrassment only grew as Vanessa continued to look at them with impartial eyes. Yuna was even covering her face with a pillow while Grey got out of bed and headed to the closet to get himself a nice change of clothes.
"Anyway, Big Sis Vanessa, how did you know we are in this room?" ［Grey］
"Ah, that... His Majesty told me. I also had a little help from the princes. They were really good with directions." ［Vanessa］
"I see. His Majesty, huh..." ［Grey］
With how many rooms there are in the massive royal castle, Grey found it strange how Vanessa was able to find theirs. But now, everything finally made sense, a certain hatred growing inside his heart.
The King and the two princes. Grey made sure to remember who was the cause of their embarrassment. A dark smile loomed over his face as he finally picked a set of clothing, a plan for revenge brewing inside his mind.
"Big Sis Vanessa, can you wait outside for a moment? We'll just chaー !!!" ［Grey］
"Hm? Is something wrong, Grey?" ［Vanessa］
Grey couldn't even finish his words. Out of nowhere, two more figures appeared behind Vanessa without any of them noticing. One had an apologetic expression on his face while the other was wearing a terrifying smile, one which could scare the living hell out of anyone.
Those two figures were none other than Ranzel and Kurt, obviously chasing after Vanessa. The former then placed his hand on Vanessa's shoulder, shocking her greatly as soon as she saw her husband's terrifying expression.
"Dear, let's talk for a minute, alright?" ［Ranzel］
"N-No... Dear, this is... Umm... This is..." ［Vanessa］
"Why are you stuttering, Dear? I just want to have a sweet chat with my lovely wife. Let's go, alright?" ［Ranzel］
Vanessa couldn't reply to Ranzel anymore. Her face started to get pale as her eyes swam to different directions, avoiding Ranzel's stares as much as she could. In the end, she was dragged back home by her caring husband.
The ones who were left were Grey and Yuna, who still hadn't understood what was happening, and Kurt, who could only heave a lengthy sigh at his older sister's antics. She has really become more troublesome after getting pregnant.
"Grey, Yuna, sorry about that. I hope you can forgive Elder Sister. Even if she's like that, she isn't a bad person." ［Kurt］
"No, it's alright... Actually, Kurt, are you sure you two are related?" ［Grey］
"Haah... That's also what I want to know." ［Kurt］
After that weird start in the morning, Grey and Yuna then prepared themselves for the day and headed towards the bath. It was just as luxurious and grand as they had expected and they really enjoyed their time there.
After which, they then had a quick change of clothes and headed to the dining room for breakfast. And as usual, it was with the whole royal family. Grey and Yuna also took the chance to play with the little princess once again.
"Do you like it, Little Princess?" ［Yuna］
"Um! I wuv it!" ［Natalia］
And just like Eliza before, for some reason, the little princess had started to imitate Yuna's "Un!" way of answering in the place of a "Yes". Though her pronunciation was still a little off so it ends up sounding like "Um!" every time. Well, she was still very cute nonetheless.
"Iris, here, you can have this parfait." ［Grey］
"Th-Thank you, Elder Brother Grey!" ［Iris］
Well, apart from the little princess, they were also spoiling the Princess Royal. She was the same age as Eliza so it wasn't that hard to interact with her. If anything, they have gained yet another younger sister. It would have been ideal if Eliza was also there with them.
"Oi, Grey, Yuna, why are Iris and Natalia the only ones getting sweets and treats? Give me a bite, too." ［Julius］
"Shut up. The treats are only for the kids. If you want some, make one for yourself. The kitchen's empty, you know?" ［Grey］
"Un. That's right. A prince shouldn't be whining over such things. Isn't that right, Princess Natalia?" ［Yuna］
"Um!" ［Natalia］
"Fufufu! Our Little Princess really is the cutest!" ［Yuna］
One hit, two hits, three hits. Julius was struck one after another by Grey, Yuna, and Natalia. Even though he knows Natalia doesn't even understand what the two were talking about, it still hurts when his lovely niece agrees with them.
Well, when the Queen requested for some, Grey and Yuna also gave them some sweets they have in store. Only the Queen, the Crown Princess, and Carlton who just happened to enter were given them. The troublesome ones weren't given even a single piece to savor.
"You two, are you sure it's alright to treat a King this way? I'm the King, you know? The King, I say." ［Ernes］
"Your Majesty, it's unbecoming of a King to whine over mere confectioneries. Please sit still and be quiet." ［Grey］
Even when it was the King who requested it, Grey remained stone cold and didn't give them much attention, continuing to treat them like mere pebbles by the roadside. It served as a little revenge for the troublesome thing they did not long ago.
On one side of the room, happy smiles were blooming everywhere as everyone had their sweet time enjoying some novel confectioneries. On the other side, there was only darkness, an atmosphere of depression and gloom over them.
Clack Clack Clack BANGGGG
A familiar pattern. After the heavy sound of footsteps, a loud bang echoed in the dining room as Vanessa intruded on the castle once again. She has a bright and happy expression, seeming like she still hasn't learnt her lesson.
"Everyone, I'm back～!" ［Vanessa］
"Oh, Vanessa, you're quite early this time. Did something happen?" ［Ernes］
"Fufufu, still as energetic as always, Vanessa." ［Talia］
Well, even with her antics, none of the royal family was surprised. It wasn't the first time such a commotion happened in the royal castle. Rather, it happened pretty often, about twice or thrice a week. They have gotten used to it.
Even the little princess was not startled. Children of her age would usually be scared of loud noises, but she was completely calm as she continued to adorably munch on the mochi Yuna had given her. Just like a cute chipmunk.
"Oh, Princess Natalia, what are you eating?" ［Vanessa］
"Moushi!" ［Natalia］
"Mou... Shi...?" ［Vanessa］
A puzzled expression was plastered on Vanessa's face as she tried to understand the little princess' baby talk. It was only when Yuna worded it out silently for her that she understood what it was. Her bright smile returned back to her.
"Fufufu, then could you give Aunt Vanessa some? I also want to have a taste of this moushi. Please～?" ［Vanessa］
The little princess didn't answer immediately. She first looked at her mochi which she had already bitten. She then ran towards Yuna, extending her hand with an open palm. There was no way Yuna could refuse to give her another one.
"Fufufu, here you go～!" ［Yuna］
"Shank you!" ［Natalia］
After getting a mochi from Yuna, she then ran back to Vanessa with her little legs and when she was in range, she then handed the mochi to the latter with expectant eyes, looking forward to Vanessa accepting her goodwill.
"Fufufu, thank you, Princess Natalia～!" ［Vanessa］
"Um!" ［Natalia］
Continuing to bite down on her mochi, Natalia nodded adorably to Vanessa's thanks. It was such a warm scene one couldn't help but feel their hearts being melted from the little princess' cuteness. Even the doting grandfather who was just whining a little while ago was now shining with happiness.
A happy expression also bloomed on Vanessa's face as soon as she had a bite of the mochi. And as one would expect from the one and only Vanessa, she looked at Grey and Yuna with the eyes of a predator, asking for more.
It was also then that Grey and Yuna had finally forgiven the King and the two princes from their thoughtless actions. They were so happy about receiving sweets from them that little tears formed in the corner of their eyes. It was a disturbing sight seeing three grown men cry over sweets. Truly disturbing.
"Oh, right... By the way, Big Sis Vanessa, why are you here? Did you have some business with the royal castle?" ［Grey］
"Ah! I almost forgot! Grey, Yuna, do you want to go to a theater?!" ［Vanessa］
It was completely out of expectations. Grey initially thought that she had some sort of important business with the royal family, but oh how wrong he was. What was he expecting? It was Vanessa, after all. There was no way she'd make sense.
On top of that, she suddenly invited them to a theater. While Grey and Yuna were also interested in the plays in the royal capital, they never thought they'd be going there in such a way. And since it was Vanessa, it would be hard to refuse her with her forceful nature.
"Wait, Big Sis Vanー" ［Grey］
"Ah! Princess Iris, Princess Natalia, would you like to go with us, too? We'll be having a lot of fun today." ［Vanessa］
"Big Sisー" ［Yuna］
"Then after the theater, we could also go horse riding! Ah, come to think of it, Grey and Yuna have their familiars, right? We could also fly in the sky!" ［Vanessa］
It was useless. No matter how much Grey and Yuna tried to intervene with Vanessa, she didn't budge a bit like an unstoppable comet streaking across the sky. Grey and Yuna were quickly strung along by her whims without much resistance.
In just a couple of minutes, a whole plan was made by Vanessa. There was the theater, flying with their familiars, exploring the marketplace, cooking by the royal kitchen, overseeing after the knights' training, and many more. She was amazing in ways more than one.
"Tasha, Your Majesty, is it alright if I borrow the princesses for the day. I'll make sure to take goo care of them～!" ［Vanessa］
"Fufufu, that's fine. Iris has been cooped up too long in the castle. I think it's a good time for her to stretch her body." ［Talia］
"I'm also fine with it. I can rest assured if it's you." ［Natasha］
Unexpectedly, neither the Queen nor the Crown Princess went against Vanessa's suggestion. Their quick decisions made Grey and Yuna worry for a bit. After all, what kind of parents would quickly entrust their children on a sudden whim.
Well, it's not like they don't understand their perspectives. With Vanessa, Grey, and Yuna with the children, there would be no better escorts. After all, with three high-rankers around, there are barely anyone who could touch them.
"Prince Julius, would you also like to go with us?" ［Vanessa］
"Hmm... I think I'll have to decline. I've already made plans with Amelia yesterday. We'll be doing some quests today." ［Julius］
"Aww... That's a shame... Well, at least we have both Grey and Yuna with us! Alright, let's go!" ［Vanessa］
Not even asking for Grey and Yuna's opinion, Vanessa quickly decided that it was a fact they'll be joining her. Well, it's not like there would be much the two could do against her. It was Vanessa, after all.
Everything (arbitrarily) decided, Grey, Yuna, and the princesses dressed up for the occasion and wore luxurious dresses. The Queen and the Crown Princess themselves personally picked out the dresses for the girls.
Even though Iris was still young, her beauty was already on another level. In five years' time, she would definitely be one of the most beautiful women in the kingdom. Though it would be unclear whether men could approach her. With the King and the two princes fawning over her, it would be very difficult.
As for the little princess, she was dressed in a soft and comfortable dress fit for little children. While she would be a true beauty like her mother after several years, for now, she was the cutest little princess there is. She looked even cuter with the dress.
For Yuna, there isn't much left to say. Even though was only touched up with light makeup, she already looked very beautiful. She may not be a lady of noble blood, she doesn't lose out to any of them. In terms of beauty, she was one of the most beautiful in the whole world.
"Oh my... Yuna really is beautiful..." ［Talia］
"Elder Sister Yuna looks amazing..." ［Iris］
"As expected of Yuna! My little sister really is so beautiful!" ［Vanessa］
Even beauties of the Queen and the princesses' levels couldn't help but admire Yuna. She was like a doll whose fairness rivals that of a goddess. Her fair white skin, her glossy, silver hair, and her deep blue eyes. Such a cold yet alluring beauty.
Knock Knock Knock
Just in time as the ladies finished their preparations, a symphony of knocks echoed from the other side of the door. The origin was none other than Grey who just also finished dressing up, borrowing a princely attire from Julius.
"Come in." ［Talia］
"Pardon the intru... sion..." ［Grey］
He was frozen. As soon as he laid his eyes on the silver-haired elf before him, Grey's movements slowed down until he completely stopped. His heart was racing madly as he continued to look at his beloved with eyes full of affection and amazement.
"Grey... You're staring too much..." ［Yuna］
"Ah, sorry..." ［Grey］
Flustered expressions on their faces, the others couldn't help but giggle warmly at their reactions. It reminded them of the days when they were still in their teenage years, enjoying their lives together with their loved ones. Loved ones who have now become their husbands.
"Big Bwo! Cool!" ［Natalia］
"Hahaha, thank you, Princess. You look adorable yourself, too." ［Grey］
"Um!" ［Natalia］
Well, the first to compliment Grey was none other than the cute little princess. Grey doubted whether she fully understood the meaning of her own words, but he was still happy nonetheless. A surge of warmth filled his heart.
Everyone dressed up and ready, everyone then headed towards the theater using the royal carriage. With such a grand crest engraved on the carriage, it was only natural that it garnered a lot of attention. Too much attention, in fact.
It didn't take too long before they arrived at the theater, and when they headed down, all eyes were on them. Not only was it the royal carriage, the people riding it were also quite famous. It was a grand entrance.
"Waah～! It's the heroes～!"
"The princesses are here too!"
"Agh! I would have bought a ticket if I knew they were coming!"
Different reactions came from the crowd as they saw them get down from the carriage one after another. Some were even despairing over the fact that they couldn't go inside the theater with them. Needless to say, it was an interesting sight.
"Greetings, Your Highnesses, Your Excellency. It is our greatest pleasure to serve such esteemed guests in this humble establishment. Please follow me, I'll be leading you to the royal chambers."
Surprisingly, even though it was such a sudden notice, the theater was able to organize a warm welcome for them. Even the owner of the theater, a noble, took it upon himself to welcome them.
A warm reception greeting them, everyone was then quickly led towards the royal chambers which is the most valuable chamber in the theater. It was very spacious, a lot of furniture and appliances present for the guests' entertainment.
"Then, I'll be taking my leave. Please don't hesitate to call me if you ever need something. I hope you enjoy the play."
As stiff and courteous as one can be, the owner excused himself, leaving everyone to enjoy the room for themselves. There were fruits, confections, and snacks of all kinds present. It was practically a VIP+++ room.
"Oh! The play's starting!" ［Vanessa］
"Come here, Princess, you can sit in Big Sis' lap." ［Yuna］
Everyone quickly took their seats as the actors entered the stage. Soon, the lights dimmed, the backdrops changed, the props entered, and silence swallowed the whole area. The play has finally started.
The play was all about the adventure of a young boy all over the world, facing many hardships and encountering many people throughout his journey. It was a famous story written by a well-known playwright over three centuries ago.
All eyes were on the stage as the actors flawlessly executed their lines and acts. The transitions, the interactions, and the special magic effects were all flawless. It was to be expected from one of the kingdom's most famous theaters.
『Yuna.』 ［Grey］
『Hm? Is something wrong?』 ［Yuna］
『No, not really... It might be too late to see this, but you look gorgeous, my dear. I think I'm falling in love all over again.』 ［Grey］
A sudden attack. Yuna's face quickly turned red, her heart racing wildly. Grey had already told her such things countless times yet she couldn't help but have her heart beat madly every single time.
『Un... Me too, I think Grey also looks cool...』 ［Yuna］
Her face getting redder by the moment, Yuna also replied to Grey's words in kind. Thankfully, everyone else was focused on the play, otherwise, they would have already seen how flustered she was.
Their hands linking with one another, Grey and Yuna continued watching over the play. Yuna leaned her head to her man's shoulder, her heart only beating faster and faster with the passing of time. Well, Grey was also the same. Just a couple of fools head over heels for one another.
CHAPTER 167 END