The sun beat down the world with warm and gentle sunlight, gracing the world a nice, golden afternoon under the blue sky. The refreshing breeze cruising freely through the city, cooling down the ground in the face of heat. It was a lovely day.
On such a lovely day, there was no better way to spend it in the similarly lovely and grand royal castle. The silence of the wind and the sweet fragrance of flowers drifting with it, accompanied by the echoes of footsteps. Oh, what an atmosphere.
"Uuu..." ［Natalia］
A new sound mixed with the current melody, the grumbling noise of the little princess. She suddenly stopped walking and was now squatting on the ground, looking at the others before her with adorable puppy eyes.
"Is something wrong, Princess?" ［Yuna］
"Uuu... Pwinceth tiwed..." ［Natalia］
Such was an adorable reason. It was only to be expected that she gets tired with the meager stamina of a two-year-old. Actually, it was even more surprising that she lasted so long without complaining. She really was a hard-working little princess.
With how tired she was, she didn't want to move anymore. But on another hand, she wants to continue exploring with the others. The little princess' heart was torn apart by two difficult choices. She mulled over as much as a little princess can.
"Hmm... If the Little Princess is tired, should we rest or... Would the Little Princess like to ride Big Bro's shoulder here?" ［Grey］
"Showder?" ［Natalia］
"Yes. A shoulder carry. Would you like to try?" ［Grey］
"... Um!" ［Natalia］
There was a little pause as the little princess stared at Grey's face, thinking about his offer with her innocent little mind. Not long after, she then agreed happily with such a bright smile on her face, opening her arms up for Grey to take her.
Giggling to himself, Grey then knelt down to the ground, held the little princess by the upper torso, and gently had her sit on his broad shoulders. The little princess, getting such a treatment was very happy and excited, her head turning around from time to time as she watched the change in altitude.
"Waah～ Nalia! Tawl!" ［Natalia］
"Hahaha. Now, now, don't move too much, Little Princess. We don't want to get hurt now, do we?" ［Grey］
"Um! Behayv!" ［Natalia］
The others could only look at the little princess warmly as she enjoyed herself riding on Grey's shoulders. It was the first time she had experienced shoulder carry, hence her excitement as if she just got a new toy.
Of course, her father, the Crown Prince, had tried to carry her on his shoulders from before, but with how reckless he was, the Crown Princess never allowed him to. It was a shame but it was better than having the little princess get hurt.
Well, other than the little princess, there was another princess whose eyes were on Grey and the little princess, clenching her hand in front of her chest. She was wearing expectant eyes which was really out of character for her.
"Hm? Does Iris also want a shoulder carry?" ［Grey］
"Aunshie, cawwy?" ［Natalia］
"A-Ah, n-no! I... I was just looking at how Natalia is enjoying herself. Th-That's all! N-Nothing else!" ［Iris］
A certain degree of redness bloomed on Iris' face as she denied Grey's question. It was obvious that she also wanted to experience such, but was just too embarrassed to admit. She is still the Princess Royal, after all. She has her dignity to protect.
She was in the same situation as Natalia. She also hasn't had a shoulder carry. After all, her father was none other than the mischievous King, just on par, maybe even more reckless than the Crown Prince. For some reason, all men in the royal family are numbnuts who only know how to cause trouble.
Well, Iris is already 11 years old. It was normal for her to be embarrassed in doing certain actions. Grey decided to not pursue it any further and just patted her head before starting to walk once again.
"Alright, then how about we headー" ［Vanessa］
"Lt. General Vanessa!" ［???］
A husky voice suddenly boomed from behind, calling out to Vanessa of all people. As they turned around, they were greeted by a well-built middle-aged man with a cross-shaped scar on his face, his uniform a bit different from the other knights. It was one with more clothing than armor.
Each stride full of confidence and grace, the man approached them like a predator unfazed by the raging winds. His eyes were fixated on Vanessa as he drew closer, seeming to bear a certain responsibility on his shoulders.
⟨⟨Appraisal⟩⟩ ［Grey］
-----------------------------------
[Salferine]
[Name] Faust von Farklae
[Race] Human
[Sex] Male
[Age] 37
[Status] Healthy
[Mana Capacity] 1,794 [Mana Quality] C
[Combat Power] 2,464 [Threat Level] B
[Attribute] Darkness [Magic Proficiency] High (54%)
[Class] Berserker [Weapon Proficiency] High (61%)
[Physical Enhancement] 63%
[Ability] 『Heavy Impact (3☆)』
-----------------------------------
He was strong. He may not be able to compare to Grey and Yuna, but in the eyes of the general populace, he was already very strong. Only second to the General in the whole of Alfrione's armed forces.
There was only shock in Grey's mind as she thought of where such a strong person was when Iblis attacked months ago. They were lucky that Grey and the others were there, but if they weren't, his help would have been greatly appreciated at the time.
"Hm? Faust? Do you need something from me?" ［Vanessa］
"No, it's not me. The General has called for you. You did something 'amazing' again, didn't you?" ［Faust］
"I... I don't know what you're talking about... I've only been escorting Their Highnesses this entire time, you know?" ［Vanessa］
Or so she says but her eyes were swimming away in another direction as she said her answer. Grey and Yuna had known her for long enough to know that she definitely did something as soon as her eyes went swimming.
Meanwhile, Faust only looked at who Vanessa accompanied. There was the Princess Royal and the Little Princess whom he gave his respects to by bowing his head politely, but as soon as he saw Grey and Yuna, his eyes shook in quake as soon as he realized their identities.
"Forgive me for my late greetings, Your Highnesses, Archduke Grey, Archduchess Yuna. I am Faust von Farklae, Captain of the Royal Guards. It is my greatest pleasure to finally meet the great heroes of Alfrione!" ［Faust］
A loud thud resounded in the air as Faust planted his knees to the ground. What followed after was a very polite greeting and introduction showing his utmost respect to the two youths before him. It was so sudden, Grey and Yuna didn't know how to respond properly.
Worst of all, he also introduced himself as the Captain of the Royal Guards. His position is that which does not lose to the General himself. He is amongst one of the biggest bigshots in the whole kingdom. And that very bigshot was kneeling very respectfully to Grey and Yuna.
"Uh... Umm,.. Sir Faust, was it? Please raise your head now. It would only cause a misunderstanding if people were to see us like this." ［Grey］
"Un. The princesses are also watching. It might affect them if this continues for too long. Especially Princess Natalia, she might start following you." ［Yuna］
"Nalia! Fowwow!" ［Natalia］
It was just like Yuna had said. She didn't even mean for such a thing to happen but the little princess started imitating her words, only further proving her point. It was very adorable, but it was not time to dwell on her cuteness.
Worst case scenario, the little princess might go around kneeling down when she greets people, imitating knights. And she might hurt her soft and delicate knees in the process. It was something Grey and Yuna wanted to avoid at all cost.
"Oh, I apologize for my thoughtless actions. I was just so glad I finally met you that my legs moved on their own. I've heard quite a lot of interesting stories about you two, you see." ［Faust］
Contrary to his scarred and scary appearance, Faust was quite the nice guy. He was acting gentle enough so that the children won't be scared of him. But there was just one thing which bothered the two. It was the last part of his statement.
Grey and Yuna have heard about a similar statement before from Gustav, and they couldn't say they were very pleased about it. There were a lot of exaggerated stories and claims, and the cause was none other than the lovely Vanessa beside them.
"Umm... About these stories, just what kind have Sir Faust heard about?" ［Grey］
"Oh, I've heard many kinds. There is one where you defeated a pair of true garudas, stories about how you saved the kingdom, and the fact that you have a handful of powerful familiars." ［Faust］
So far, so good. Everything Faust talked about was all true, but even then, neither Grey nor Yuna let their guards down. After all, the same thing happened with Gustav. While it was normal at first, it became weirder on the second part.
"Oh, there were also stories about you massacring a horde of dragons, blowing off mountains in a single strike, and defeating all the knights in a single second. I was honestly doubtful at first, but after hearing it firsthand from His Majesty, my doubts were all cleared.
Even now, I am still in awe of your great achievements. Even though you are still so young, you have accomplished something not many people could. I'm sure your names will be forever engraved in the kingdomー no, the world's history." ［Faust］
It was like listening to a hardcore fan praising their celebrity idols. Faust gave them non stop praises even though they have just met for the first time. Needless to say, it was quite the first impression.
Also, it was just like what Grey and Yuna had expected. There really were weird and exaggerated stories mixed in the bunch. They have already expected it, but it didn't make it any less embarrassing. It really was troublesome being so famous.
"Sir Faust, umm... These stories, would you please, pray tell, enlighten us where did you hear them?" ［Grey］
"Un. I'm also curious, Sir Faust. Who did you hear them from?" ［Yuna］
"Well.... I've heard them from many people, mostly from the knights themselves. Ah, but the latter part, I've heard it from Vanessa. She was very proud and enthusiastic while telling those stories." ［Faust］
"I see... Big Sis Vanessa, huh..." ［Grey］
The culprit was, once again, Vanessa whose eyes were drifting away to the gardens, avoiding Grey and Yuna's judging stares with all her might. Well, rather than mad, the two were just simply baffled. They really don't know how to deal with her.
They wanted to reprimand her, but with Vanessa's personality, she would probably be evading the topics as swiftly as she can. It would only be a waste of time and energy scolding a person who never really learns. It would have been different if her husband or the Queen were there.
"Anyway, where are Your Highnesses going? Are you heading to the throne room? Or maybe the royal quarters?" ［Faust］
"Ah, that... We were going to head to the training grounds and watch the knights train. Big Sis Vanessa suggested it to us." ［Grey］
"Oh! The training grounds! Perfect timing! The Royal Guards would also be training today. I would love it if Your Highnesses could join us." ［Faust］
There was a hard to decline smile plastered on Faust's face as she requested Grey and Yuna of such. While it was Vanessa who was practically dragging them along the whole day, since she was still acting like a scolded child, it was up to them to decide.
"Hmm... I'm fine with it." ［Grey］
"Un. Me too. What about the princesses?" ［Yuna］
"I would love to see the Royal Guard's training routine. I think it would be a good learning experience." ［Iris］
"Wuv! See! Wearn! Esh... Esh... Esheynce!" ［Natalia］
Everyone quickly agreed to Faust's suggestion without much deep thoughts. The little princess in particular was very excited, imitating bits and pieces of Iris' words. Though the last one was just a tad bit off.
"Experience" was turned to "Esheynce" which sounded more like "Essence" if anything. Well, it was quite a hard word for a two-year-old to pronounce. Still, it was cute and heartwarming seeing her try her best. She was really adorable.
"Hahahaha! I'm honored you accepted my invitation. Well then, allow me the pleasure of leading you to the training grounds." ［Faust］
Faust on the lead, everyone then headed to the training grounds which was not too far off the gardens. Grey and Yuna have seen it many times already, but even then, it doesn't fail to amaze them every single time.
The training grounds were very wide and spacious, even larger than the ones in the Royal Academy. Near it were a number of racks containing training weapons and recovery items. There were also a large number of dummies on the fields for them to train their attacks against. It was the best one could ask.
"Hm? Aren't those..."
"I-It's Lord Grey and Lady Yuna!"
"Really?! The heroes are here?!"
It was a warm reception. As soon as the knights saw the group enter and realize who was with Vanessa and Faust, words quickly spread like wildfire. It wasn't long until everyone knew that Grey and Yuna had arrived at the training ground.
Everyone halted their swings and spars as they looked at the two youths before them. All eyes were on them, just like when two celebrities enter a mall. The only difference was that it was not a mall and they had no bodyguards. They are their bodyguards themselves.
"Royal Guards, Fall in!" ［Faust］
Faust's voice boomed throughout the training ground, and soon after a group of about 30 or 40 knights, uniforms different from the rest, fell in formation and lined up neatly before Faust. Such actions only took a couple seconds to initiate.
"Atten～tion!" ［Faust］
At the next command, the Royal Guards stood upright in the correct posture. Their chins up, chests out, shoulders back, and stomachs in. Such actions were done swiftly and gracefully. As expected of the kingdom's most elite units.
The Royal Guards, as the name suggests, are the select knights who serve as bodyguards to the royal family. They may be few in numbers, but their strengths don't lose out to anyone. Everyone there was C-rank at the very least.
While the Captain, Faust, was out on a mission during the founding festival, the other members of the Royal Guards are doing their duties, protecting the other members of the royal family as per the King's request.
Why were there no Royal Guards with the King at the time, one might ask? The answer is very simple. It was because the General, along with the other High-rankers were with him at the time. There were no better escorts.
"Listen up! Today, Their Highnesses are going to personally oversee our training! Let's show them how things are done with the Royal Guards! Let's show them what we're made of!" ［Faust］
"""Ohhh!!"""
There was no more formal language left in Faust. As soon as he opened his mouth, all that was left were crude but sincere words of motivation as he raised up the Royal Guards' morale. It was very effective as loud shouts echoed in the air.
Well, Faust wasn't the only one who held a high rank in the training grounds. There was also a certain pregnant woman who was now giggling to herself before walking forwards, an imposing aura befalling upon the other knights.
"Alright, everyone～. You've heard Faust, haven't you? Now, let's show Grey and Yuna your spirits! We won't be losing to the Royal Guards!" ［Vanessa］
"""Ohhh!!"""
An even louder, more resonant cacophony of shouts echoed throughout the whole castle as Vanessa also raised the spirits of knights though the sky. Their eyes were now filled with determination as they picked up their weapons and started swinging.
Since Grey and Yuna, not to mention the princesses, were watching them, there was no way the knights would embarrass themselves in front of them. They tried their hardest, pushing themselves over their limits.
It was quite the spectacle. Grey and Yuna knew that they had some influence in the kingdom because of their status, but they didn't know it would be that much. Rather, they felt bad that the knights respected them more than the princesses.
"No, no, your swings are too wide. You'd leave gaps for the enemy to strike if you continue this... Do it like... this!" ［Grey］
"I know muscles are important, but they'll only restrict your movements if they get too big. You should also focus on flexibility and dexterity..." ［Yuna］
Time passed and the training of the knights progressed. Since they were already there, Grey and Yuna decided to teach the knights some tips and tricks which are useful in battle. A session the knights thoroughly enjoyed.
In fact, there are even times the knights would purposely fail just so that they could get a lesson from Grey and Yuna. Well, even with that, they still learnt a lot of things from them. It was a very fruitful experience.
"Soord! Shwing! Shwing!" ［Natalia］
And while the knights trained, the little princess also had her own fun. She took a stick she picked up from the ground and swung it happily in the air. Well, rather than brandishing it like the knights, she was simply waving it left and right.
Time passed some more and the sun started to set. When the sky turned amber, the training ended and everyone was dismissed. And by everyone, it really meant everyone. There wasn't a single person left in the training grounds anymore.
The knights have returned to their dorms and homes, Faust returned to the Farklae mansion, and Vanessa was picked up by Ranzel so that they could have dinner. Well, she was picked up only after getting a scolding from the General. It was a really interesting sight.
As for Grey, Yuna, and the princesses, they headed to their respective baths to clean themselves first. After which, they then headed to the dining hall where all the other members of the royal family were already present.
"Iris, Natalia, how was your day? Did you enjoy it?" ［Ernes］
"Yes. I've had a lot of fun, Father. I've also learnt a number of things thanks to Elder Brother Grey and Elder Sister Yuna. I think Natalia also feels the same." ［Iris］
"Um! Sheym!" ［Natalia］
"Hahaha, that's good to hear! Really good!" ［Ernes］
A hearty laugh echoed in the kitchen as the King indulged in the stories of her one and only daughter and granddaughter. He really was like a doting fool on them. Well, not only him. The Crown Prince and Second Prince were also the same.
Such a light and warm atmosphere continued to unfold over the dining hall as dinner continued. Many stories were told and many laughter echoed across the dining table as everyone shared their experiences for the day. It continued until dinner was over.
"Ah, right... Your Majesty, everyone, I have something to give you." ［Grey］
"Hm? Is it sweets?" ［Ernes］
"Well... Yeah, it's sweets." ［Grey］
Following his words, Grey quickly took out a couple of things from his "Inventory". There were cream puffs, cupcakes, and a bunch of varied flowers. They were the things both Iris and the little princess worked hard for.
"Oh! Cream puffs! I've been wanting to eat these again." ［Ernes］
Grey hasn't even given an ok signal yet, but the King already invited himself to the treats and fed himself some. Following him the others also had a taste of it. Some took cream puffs while others took cupcakes. It was balanced.
Thanks to Grey's ability, they were still warm and so, they were much more delicious. Everyone greatly enjoyed the desserts, with bright smiles on their faces. There was only one who had a different expression, feeling a little nervous.
"Hmm,... Grey, Yuna, I don't know how to tell you this, but... Somehow, it tastes different..." ［Ernes］
"Hahaha. Well, that's because Princess Iris made it herself." ［Grey］
"Un! Iris worked quite hard for it, you know." ［Yuna］
"Hm? Iris did?" ［Ernes］
The one who was nervous was none other than Iris. While she knew how good Grey and Vanessa's skills were, she was still nervous if she messed something up. It was just the simple anxiety of cooking for the first time.
"Is... Is it terrible...?" ［Iris］
"Terrible...? There's no way it's terrible! It's the best dessertー no, the best food I've ever had! This is a national treasure!" ［Ernes］
"Fufufu, it's very delicious, Iris, my Dear. I'm proud of you." ［Talia］
The anxiety was now gone. A surge of happiness filled Iris' heart as a little smile finally bloomed on her face. She then enjoyed the sweets she made herself and experienced the same deliciousness everyone tasted.
But the surprises didn't stop there. Standing without making any noises, Grey headed towards the little princess and removed her from her seat. He then put her down on the floor, giving her the flowers she picked in the morning.
A smile blooming on the little princess' face, Natalia walked towards where her mother and father were. Once she was in range, she tugged on the Crown Princess' dress with a tiny, little hand and meager strength.
"Mama! Papal! Fowers!" ［Natalia］
She was too, too cute! Both the Crown Prince and Crown Princess' hearts fluttered from the cuteness of their daughter. They didn't even accept the flowers and just hugged her directly. After them, the other family members were also given flowers by the little princess.
"Galleus... Today, I've received personally baked sweets from our sweet Iris. Not only that, I also received flowers from cute Natalia. Don't you think we should make this a national holiday?!" ［Ernes］
"I totally agree with you, Father! There is no greatest occasion!" ［Galleus］
A sudden spark of motivation entered two idiotic minds, and disregarding any possible consequence, they just decided to create a sudden holiday, only becoming more and more troublesome as they added more things to it.
"Dear, should we talk for a little bit?" ［Talia］
"Galleus, my love, let's head outside, shall we?" ［Natasha］
Thankfully, there were two other influential figures in the dining room who could equal them. They were the lovely wives who are the only ones who could actually think properly within the royal family.
The four walked out the room, the ladies wearing frightening smiles on their faces. Soon enough, a number or words fired like machine guns as they scolded their husbands. Meanwhile, the princess only ate more sweets with Grey and Yuna.
"Here, Princess, have some ice cream." ［Yuna］
"Um!" ［Natalia］
CHAPTER 169 END