"Please join the Snowflake of the Night!" ［Nida］
The wind was cold, blowing ever so gently, a cheerful declaration floating adrift in the air, ringing clearly inside everyone's ears. Accompanying such a declaration was a bright, blinding smile coming from the very same owner of the voice.
Shock and confusion. Such emotions were conveyed on everyone's face as they looked at the smiling lady before them. They couldn't understand what had just transpired, their mind in shambles as they tried to cope with the current situation.
""Eh?!"" ""Huh?!""
Two distinct yet similar sounds echoed soon after the declaration, their expressions not any better. The only one who remained the same was Nida who was still smiling all the while she looked at the four youths' bewildered expressions.
"Umm... Missus Nida, was it...? Can you please elaborate further? I'm still a little confused about your proposition..." ［Julius］
The shock was so much that Julius ended up using formal language. It was very out of character for him, but who could blame him? Even Grey didn't have the time to bicker with him. He was also just as concerned.
"Fufufu, what more is there to explain? You're all beautiful and have good figures. Not to mention your statures! I'd really believe it if you say that you're models!" ［Nida］
"N-No, we aren't... Anyway, I don't think we'll be joining anytime soon..." ［Julius］
"That's right. We also don't have any experience in modeling. It would only be embarrassing if we go up the stage." ［Grey］
"Fufufu, is that how you see it?" ［Nida］
A mysterious intent behind her smile, Nida's expressions only bloomed brighter. At the same time, Grey and Julius' expressions only grew more confused. Oh, what a grand contradiction.
After all, it wasn't only their good looks and stature that Nida based her proposition with. The way they carried themselves, their posture, and all little details in the short time they've exchanged words also became a factor.
Although it would be a lie to say that she noticed those things the very moment she saw them. It was only an impulse after she was mesmerized by their faces. Though she doesn't regret it. Now, she was sure she found quite a few beautiful gems.
"Well it's such a shame. The prizes are great, you know?" ［Nida］
"We really aren't in dire need of money right now... Sorry..." ［Grey］
"No, no, it's alright. Ah, but! The prizes aren't just cash, you know?! There's dresses, jewelry, and a couple incentives! You'll also be granted coupons afterwards! And even if you don't win, there'll be a party afterwards where lots of delicious food and drinks will be served!" ［Nida］
"Food?!" ［Yuna］
It was over. The very moment Nida mentioned the word "Food", everything was decided. As Yuna's ears perked up, her eyes also lit up, sparkling even brighter than the sun above, a certain flame burning up inside of her eyes.
"Shin, let's join!" ［Yuna］
"Elena..." ［Grey］
Yep, it was over. Now that Yuna made up her mind, there was no stopping her. Even if he were to refuse, Yuna would only switch up tactics and bug him until he agrees. There was only one thing Grey could do to overcome the current situation,
『Yuna, why don't we go back for now? I promise I'll cook you whatever you want and however much you want later, alright?』 ［Grey］
『Uuu... That's tempting... But the free food...』 ［Yuna］
『In addition, I'll also be lifting your limits on the sugar bags for a whole month. What do you think?』 ［Grey］
『Really?! No takesy-backsies, okay?』 ［Yuna］
『Of course. I promise.』 ［Grey］
It was unfortunate that their sugar reserves were going to go into a crisis once again, but it was the only choice left. Well, there was also luring her with alchemy ingredients, but it would be difficult in the north where only a few plants thrive.
"Uuu... On second thought, I think I'll have to decline..." ［Yuna］
"There you go, Missus Nida. It's a shame, but it has to be this way." ［Grey］
"I see... That's unfortunate..." ［Nida］
It was a hard decision, but between the free food and Grey's offer, the latter weighed much heavier. It was a pity for Yuna, but she wasn't too sad. All she did was imagine how many sweets she could make with the sugar ban lifted and she was back on her usual, cheerful self.
At the same time, Nida's hopes were crushed by the moment Yuna refused. While it was a shame that such gems wouldn't be joining the event, she also couldn't for them to join. It was time to give upー or so she initially thought.
"Hahaha! Looks like even the Great Shin has a weakness!" ［Julius］
An unexpected event unfolded the moment Julius opened his mouth. He was once again letting his useless and random thoughts run wild as he tried to aggravate Grey, an irritating smile plastered on his face.
"If you're so confident, why don't you go up there and present yourself? I'm sure you won't be backing out now, will you?" ［Grey］
"Hah! Don't turn this one on me. There's no need to be shy, just admit it!" ［Julius］
"Admit it, my ass! You're just a coward who can't stand up to his own words. A cowardly bastard is what you are!" ［Grey］
"Huh?! What did you say?! Stop projecting yourself to me, you wussy!" ［Julius］
Well, it didn't take too long before his plan to annoy Grey backfired. The moment started talking back, their bickering started echoing once again, each of their words getting harsher and fiercer with each exchange.
And as their fierce exchange continued, they arrived to a point where they started talking about the Snowflake of the Night, mocking each other with words which are borderline legal. It was truly an interesting sight to see.
"Hah! You think I'm a coward?! Then we'll be joining the competition! Let's see who amongst us wins this contest!" ［Julius］
"Oh, you really won't give up, huh? Then we'll be joining, too! I'll make you eat your words later when you taste defeat!" ［Grey］
"Oh, yeah?! Just see if you can!" ［Julius］
"I surely will, you bastard!" ［Grey］
"Great! Then, we'll prepare your clothing right now!" ［Nida］
It was too late, far too late. The moment Grey and Julius realized what they just said, Nida had already heard it all, her face beaming with a blinding smile which extended from ear to ear, a rosy tint showing on her cheeks as happiness filled her heart.
Meanwhile, Grey and Julius' expressions couldn't be any different. They were now pale, mouths shut closed, and eyes void of colors. They looked at each other with empty expressions, adorned with bitter smiles. They are regretting the consequences of their idiocy together.
『Grey, you'll still keep your promise, right?』 ［Yuna］
『Ah, yeah... Of course...』 ［Grey］
Drier than an earthworm buried in a mountain of salt, Grey and Yuna's conversation died down without much joy. Grey couldn't even look at her in the eyes as he gazed at the cloud-filled sky, thinking just where it went wrong.
Fast forward to the present, and now, the sun has set. The sky was dark, dotted by billions of stars, dim and bright. The moon smiled down the city as a cold, gentle, winter breeze howled ever so softly.
Like the stars in the sky and the Howler's Ring venue from the morning, the venue was also dotted with people, excitement gleaming in their eyes and warm, bright smiles floating all over the place. They happily await the exit of the contestants.
Meanwhile in the backstage, two figures sat down silently as they await their fates. The atmosphere was shrouded in silence, the backstage was dimly lit, and their eyes were lost, looking over at a distance. Top it with their solemn yet empty expressions and you'll have a scene full of gloom and depression.
"Uh... Umm... Y-Your Highness..." ［Amelia］
"Grey... How does it look..." ［Yuna］
Well, such sadness was no more the moment Yuna and Amelia entered the scene. It was as if two angels descended from the heavens, illuminating the abyss. The very moment they saw them, it was as if the world stopped.
A striking cobalt, blue as the deep ocean. Amelia's dress fluttered softly in the wind as she took her steps. Her hair red as ruby, although a complete opposite to her blue dress, it complemented her very well, like a red lotus blooming atop a deep lake.
Yuna didn't lose out either. She only wore a dress of white and silver, the colors of black adorning her. It was simple yet despite its simplicity, it greatly accentuated her natural beauty. With her eyes blue as sapphire and cold ice, she was truly fitting to be called a lady of winter.
And despite their usual attitudes, when it came to dressing up for their men, they have both turned shy. The prim and proper Amelia and the cheerful and energetic Yuna were no more. All there is is a pair of ladies in love, bashfully showing their dresses to their significant others.
"Your Highness... You're staring too much..." ［Amelia］
"Ah, sorry... You're just too stunning... I think I'm going crazy..." ［Julius］
"I see... I'm glad then..." ［Amelia］
A fierce red like her luscious hair, Amelia's cheeks burned brightly as she received Julius' compliments. Her heart is now all over the place as she tried to hide her flustered expression from the latter.
"How about me, Grey...? How do Iー" ［Yuna］
"Oh my! How beautiful! How divine! You're already gorgeous before, but now, you're all on another level! Are you sure you aren't princes and princesses?!" ［Nida］
An excited squeal echoed on the backstage, cutting off Yuna's words. It was none other than Nida who was now fawning over the four, her eyes showing evident traces of extreme admiration and respect. She was excited. Too excited, actually.
Not to mention her guess was dangerously close. Everyone could only wonder what her reaction will be if she finds out their real identities. Well, not that they have any good reasons to reveal it needlessly.
"Ohh～! I really want to chat with you more, but that's difficult right now! Anyway, please follow me now! The contestants are going to be called soon!" ［Nida］
Her face still unable to restrain her smile, everyone headed to the central backstage where the other contestants were already waiting. They haven't even entered the stage but all eyes were already on them. Their grandiose have captured everyone.
A lady who is often called the flower of high society, an elf whose beauty is amongst the best even among the elven race, a prince who inherited both good looks and charisma, and a young man whose body was made personally by God. No matter how you look at it, it was impossible to deny their existence.
"How beautiful..."
"Do you know who they are?"
"No, this is the first time I'm seeing them..."
Even the ladies and gentlemen who are also contestants, boasting beautiful looks and figures, couldn't help but gawk at them. The four were simply on another level. They couldn't help but be blinded by such outstanding presence.
"Good evening, Kosalvier!"
It wasn't long before the contest finally started. With the loud cheer of the announcer, a deafening cry followed soon after as the audience responded in kind. Excitement filled the air with every single word that echoed towards the deep, night sky.
"And so, what are we waiting for?! Let's welcome our contestants!"
One after another, as their names and numbers were called, the pairs entered the stage, their arms linking with one another. The very moment the first pair went up, the cheers only boomed louder as the people's excitement peaked.
The first pair, the second pair, the third pair. As time passed, more and more people made their entrance. The audience cheered their names and numbers, showing great support to their idols. It was so loud it wouldn't lose out to any large concert on Earth,
"Joining us for the first time! Contestants number 12! Mister Jules and Miss Lia!"
The very moment Julius and Amelia entered the stage, the excitement died down, or rather, the crowd was so taken by their beauty that they couldn't utter anything. They were all speechless, unable to take their eyes off them.
"Last but not the least! Contestants number 13! Mister Shin and Miss Elena!"
Grey and Yuna entered soon after, but the silence stayed. Well, rather than saying it stayed, it would be better to say that the silence only intensified. They were already stunned by the previous pair. Now that a similarly gorgeous pair entered.
"So... So beautiful! Go number 12! I support you!"
"Number 13! I support you, number 13!"
"Number 13, are you single?!"
The moment the crowd snapped out of it, an even louder cheer ruptured the skies. The people who once supported other contestants were now switching sides, some even falling in love with them at first glance.
『Right... I haven't given you my answer, haven't I?』 ［Grey］
『Hm?』 ［Yuna］
『Yuna, you're breathtaking... Even now, I think my heart's pounding madly.』 ［Grey］
It was a loud night, yet despite the deafening noise, only one voice echoed inside Yuna's mind. As they walked on the stage, her heart pounded so loudly, she couldn't hear the people's cheers anymore.
After the grand entrance, it was time for the talent portion of the show. One after another, the contestants showcased their capabilities to the judges and audiences. There was dancing, singing, acting, playing instruments, and a lot more. It was a gentle yet fierce competition.
And while it may be rushed, the four also managed to decide on their performances beforehand. Thankfully, they have all attended a number of social events, it truly was an unexpected lifesaver.
Time passed and many contestants performed. The audience were already plenty satisfied, but their eyes were still full of excitement. It wasn't long before Julius and Amelia were called towards the stage to perform their piece.
"Good luck, you two!" ［Yuna］
"Break a leg." ［Grey］
"Fufufu, thank you!" ［Amelia］
Just like before, the moment Julius and Amelia entered the stage, silence filled the venue. On the stage, there was a microphone and a piano to be seen, Julius taking the latter and Amelia walking towards the front, her eyes calm as the night sky above.
Like birds flying freely through the vast sky, Julius' hands swam through the piano keys, smooth like silk and flowing like the gentle creeks, filling the venue with sweet and soft melodies, heartfelt sceneries playing in their minds.
"La～ Lalala～ Lala... La～ Lalala～ La～ La～!" ［Amelia］
The moment Amelia opened her mouth, the venue became quiet like the morning forest, only the elements of nature to be heard. It was only a single syllable yet it brought forth such powerful emotions.
"♪Sunshine, seeping through the windows～ Sunshine, dancing by the willows～♪" ［Amelia］
Happiness, excitement and light blossomed in everyone's heart the moment words finally danced along the tune. They swayed left and right, humming with the notes, listening carefully, unable to utter a single word.
The next moment, there was sadness, then there was grief and despair. Negative emotions swirled like a whirlwind. Some frowned, some cried, and some felt their hearts aching. The more they listened, the more they felt the meaning of the song.
The piece was titled "Sunshine". A song about love in its highest heights and deepest depths. A tale of meeting, departure, and reunion. Everyone was moved, such deep and intricate emotions blooming in their hearts.
Clap Clap Clap Clap
Claps and cheers echoed in the night sky as soon as Julius and Amelia finished. As they bowed their heads towards the audience, unwavering support rained down upon them. It was a successful performance.
It wasn't the first time the two received such cheers, but receiving it from their hard work and efforts rather than status, they felt a happiness they couldn't describe. Smiles also bloomed on their faces.
"Well, looks like it's our turn now... Are you ready?" ［Grey］
"Fufufu! Ready when you are." ［Yuna］
As soon as Julius and Amelia were done, Grey and Yuna were then called upon the state. They are the last performers, and so, the audiences and judges looked forward to it. Especially after the previous two's performance. The bar has been raised.
The moment they stepped foot in the middle of the stage, a familiar melody played in the air. It was the usual song played at a noble's ball where the attendees danced around with their partners.
Beginning their dance with a bow, Grey and Yuna then held each other's hearts. But it wasn't just a single dance. The moment they started, darkness swallowed the venue, the only light to be seen was a spotlight highlighting the two of them.
With each step they took, colors filled the air. Fire danced around, plants bloomed with flowers, ice covered their steps, and mana swirled in the air. Magic was also dancing with them. It was a mystical sight.
As Grey and Yuna twisted and turned, fishes and sea creatures made of bubbles swam in the air, their bodies illuminated with light magic and moved about by the wind, it seemed as if they had life of their own.
As the fishes swam, the plants only grew more vibrant and beautiful, a little forest forming around them, accentuating their every movement. The flowers blossomed and petals filled the air, a sweet and lovely scent wafting through everywhere.
It was as if they were dancing in a magical forest. A tale of two people dancing on their own worlds not caring about anything else. There were only the two of them in their eyes. It was a land of hope and dreams, sweet and magical at the same time.
All eyes were on them as they continued to dance around. Even when the musicians stopped from shock, they still continued to dance, the symphony of nature echoing in the air with each and every step. It was breathtaking. An unforgettable sight.
Clap Clap Clap Clap
There were no words needed to describe it. The moment their performance ended, the people stood up and gave their loudest claps and cheers. It was the prettiest and most fascinating dance they have ever seen.
After the talent portion, the event continued and the night only went deeper. As the last bell of the day rang, the winner of the event was announced, cheerful cries echoing in the air and the awards were given one after another.
Of course, after which was the promised afterparty. It was one everyone enjoyed thoroughly as a variety of amazing dishes were served. From the appetizers, up until the last of the desserts, everything was wonderful.
The stars continued to sparkle and the clouds drifted through the sky ever so freely. The snow started falling once again and the night was now as silent as the dead. The city folks have gone to slumber.
"Mmn～! That was very fun! Everything was so delicious!" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, I couldn't agree more! Especially the desserts! They were amazing!" ［Julius］
"Fufufu. It's unfortunate that we didn't win the contest, though..." ［Amelia］
A soft giggle resounded in the air as Amelia reminded everyone of their loss. While they dominated both the entrance and the talent portion, the other contestants managed to come back with the interview, trivia, and remaining portions. It was another pair which one the crowns.
Though they didn't really mind it. Just experiencing such an event was enough for them. While it was true they were nervous at first, they managed to have fun and enjoy the rest. Not to mention how happy the crowd was. They were already satisfied.
"Well, we could always go back here next year and try again." ［Grey］
"No thank you. A single attempt is already enough for me." ［Amelia］
"Me too! Though I wouldn't mind enjoying such a feast again!" ［Yuna］
Well, even if they were happy, it doesn't mean they'll be entering such events anytime soon. The unique experience was already more than enough for them.
Friendly and merry chats continued to echo in the air as everyone headed towards the Emerald Lily. They recounted everything which happened throughout the day, laughing about their shenanigans and silly thoughts.
Of course, Amelia didn't forget about the favor Julius owed her. She still hasn't thought about what she will ask for, but she didn't forget to remind him. Once again, Julius remembered how foolish he was.
'Hmm?' ［Grey］
Such scenes continued, when all of a sudden, a feeling of softness caressed Grey's fingertips, a surge of warmth following soon after. It was none other than Yuna. The young lady was tugging on his hands, her intentions clear as day.
There wasn't too much to think about, Grey simply grasped her hands, their fingers interlocking with one another as they walked down a snowy path. It was a cold night, but strangely enough, all they could feel was a comforting warmth.
CHAPTER 181 END