Piercing cold winds and howling storms. The sun was high, but there was no sign of warmth to be seen. All there was are swirling snow and frozen gales, dominating the horizon with veils of white as the storm brandished its wrath.
It has been two days since the winter festival and everything has been going smoothly so farー or so one would expect. But in an unexpected turn of events, a powerful blizzard is currently raging against the city. Everything is covered in white.
The roofs buried in snow, the windows covered with frost, and the streets hidden by a thick veil of white. No matter where one looked at, there was only snow and frost. Everyone is staying in their homes, and by everyone, Grey and Yuna are included.
Bark Bark Bark
Yelp and whimpers filled the air as six adorable balls of fluff ran around the room. Their little legs swinging back and forth as they went around the place with such glee on their faces. They stumbled, rolled, and jumped about, living their best lives without much care in the world.
"Hngg... Why is it snowing so hard..." ［Yuna］
Yet despite the familiars' merry atmosphere, Yuna's expressions couldn't be any different. She was looking at the window, her hands feeling the frost, a gloomy expression painted on her face as she looked at the snow-veiled scenery.
Today was supposed to be the day they go out and explore the city some more. A date only for her and Grey to enjoy alone together. But as luck would have it, such was all but a dream. They couldn't even go outside, let alone enjoy a date.
Sadness still looming over her, Yuna limply walked towards the kitchen where Grey was and gave him a tight hug from behind. Although the latter was surprised, it was only for a mere moment. It wasn't the first time Yuna had done such things, after all.
"Grey, I love you." ［Yuna］
"Haha. Are you really that bored that you're such things now?" ［Grey］
"Mmn... But I really do love you, though..." ［Yuna］
"I know, I know, but you're still bored, aren't you?" ［Grey］
There was no response, only silence, but Grey was still smiling. He already knew what the answer was without seeing Yuna's expressions. He simply smiled to himself, continuing to prepare a number of ingredients for later use.
Time passed and Yuna continued clinging on Grey, peeking from time to time and eating bits and pieces sneakily when she could. Though Grey noticed it every time, he simply let her be. He only thought of how adorable his girlfriend was.
Knock Knock Knock
A call came from the doors, resounding ever so clearly in the silent room. There was no need to open the doors, both of them already knew who they were. They were, of course, their neighbors just a couple doors away.
"I'll go get it." ［Yuna］
"Alright, thanks." ［Grey］
A new sound echoed in the air. Yuna's footsteps accompanied the sound of chopping as she drew nearer the door. She skipped her steps, dancing around like a butterfly in the air, the sound of the tiled floor clacking mixing in the melody.
A resounding creak soon followed after the moment Yuna opened the door, revealing two familiar figures. One was a red-haired beauty with pink eyes while the other was a blonde prince whose eyes gleamed like deep brown zircon. It was Amelia and Julius who also had nothing else to do.
"A delightful morning, Your Highness, My Lady. To what pleasure do I owe you this lovely visit?" ［Yuna］
"What's with the sudden formality? Have you eaten anything weird again?" ［Julius］
"Fufufu! Good morning, Yuna." ［Amelia］
It was an unusual greeting, but none of the two really minded it. Yuna was just simply too bored that she decided doing things randomly, greeting Julius and Amelia with whatever silly idea popped up in her mind.
"Hey, that's rude, you know? And what do you mean weird? All my meals are thoroughly prepared and delicious!" ［Yuna］
"Alright, alright, I get it, Your Highness... Anyway, can we come in? Ah, and I also want to play some board games, if possible. Oh, and card games, too!" ［Julius］
"Mou... You sure are requesting a lot of things for a prince..." ［Yuna］
"What can I do? I'm just a destitute prince, after all." ［Julius］
Casual as ever. Such was the conversation between Yuna and Julius. Thankfully, it wasn't Grey who was in front of him, else, it would have already turned into another pointless argument long ago. Just boys being boys.
It wasn't long before Yuna allowed the two to go in, and even though their rooms were practically built with the same layout and design, Julius and Amelia still turned their heads left and right, curious about what things there were to see.
"Pardon the intrusionー" ［Amelia］
Her words were cut off the moment six pairs of sparkling eyes stared at her. Orbs of different colors and bodies full of fluff and cuteness. Amelia couldn't help but have her heart flutter as she looked at the familiars, barely holding herself back from cuddling with them.
Even though she knew what their true forms were, she wasn't a little bit afraid. On the contrary, she was only more fascinated by them. The desire to cuddle and fluff them only grew stronger the more she looked at them, conflicting with her responsibility as a lady to keep her dignity.
Sparkle Sparkle Sparkle
Beautiful eyes sparkled ever so brightly as they continued looking at Amelia, their cuteness only getting brighter with each passing second. At one moment, Amelia even started flowers and twinkles blooming behind them.
"Yuna, can I play with the familiars?" ［Amelia］
"Un! Of course!" ［Yuna］
In the end, what weighed heavier was the familiars' cuteness, her dignity as a lady no more. Well, no one could really blame her. After all, when one is looked at with such captivating eyes, all they could do is drown in a swamp of happiness, unable to resist the familiars' allure.
The timid Capella in her embrace, Amelia headed to a nearby couch and made herself comfortable. The other familiars followed soon after and also started cuddling with her. She was now in a heaven of fluff and warmth.
Julius was also sitting beside Amelia, patting and fluffing the little furballs gently. He wasn't as affected by Amelia, but his heart was still captivated by them. The familiars were simply too adorable and irresistible
Meanwhile, Yuna was away towards the kitchen, asking Grey to hand over the board and card games he has in his "Inventory". The moment she returned, it wasn't only her smile and the games with her. Grey also came back with her, drying his hands with a towel after finishing his work.
"Yo, Grey. How's your morning?" ［Julius］
"It was good, amazing even... Good morning, Amelia." ［Grey］
"Fufufu. Good morning as well, Grey." ［Amelia］
"Oi, what do you mean by 'was'? Are you saying I'm ruining it? And why are you only greeting Amelia?" ［Julius］
Three questions in a single go. Such was the greeting Grey received the moment he saw Julius. But rather than answering it directly, he only gave the latter a vague smile, leaving everything to his imagination.
The latter may be a prince, but Grey was technically an archduke. He is bound to no obligation in answering him. Rather, he was using his status and their friendship as an excuse to irritate the latter. He doesn't know why, but just seeing Julius' face makes him want to do so.
"Oi, you bastard! Answer me!" ［Julius］
"Hmm... Did I leave a window open? Why is it so noisy?" ［Grey］
"This bastard...! You're really asking for a beating, aren't you?!" ［Julius］
"Maybe a fly got in... No, is a fly even this noisy?" ［Grey］
Ah, so that's why... Julius was simply too easily provoked. It only takes a little bit of poking and he quickly flares up. Not to mention how easily he shows his expressions on his face as if wearing it on his sleeves, it was even more fun teasing him.
Julius yelling towards Grey, Grey ignoring the former, Amelia happily cuddling with the familiars, and Yuna simply watching over them with a smile, the day passed by like any other. It wasn't long before they started playing.
Chess, reversi, a simple recreation of monopoly, old maid, memory, and a lot more. Everyone played game after game to pass the time, snow piling up even higher and the winds getting colder as the blizzard continued to rage on.
It was also worth noting that Julius wasn't the one who had the most losses. He may act like an idiot most of the time, but he is still one of the best geniuses in the Royal Academy. Learning the rules and using them to his advantage was an easy task.
Ring Ring Ring
Everything continued as usual when suddenly, a ring came echoing from a nearby tabletop. It was the telephone Grey made a few months ago, still working even when the senders are more than a thousand kilometers away. Magic really is amazing!
"I'll answer it for a while. Just keep playing without me." ［Grey］
"Hey, Greyー" ［Julius］
"No. The phone's not for sale." ［Grey］
Julius hasn't even finished his statement but he was already rejected by Grey, a cold and empty expression on his face. He then picked up the phone from the tabletop and headed to the kitchen for a quieter environment,
It wasn't the first time the phone had rung with Julius and Amelia present. In fact, they have seen it work a couple times already. And just like the camera from before, Julius has also shown interest in the telephone, offering to buy it with large amounts of money, all to no avail.
Of course, questions about where they got such items were asked towards them every single time. But such questions were easily dismissed with Grey lying about finding them in the Labyrinth, a very convenient lie to go about.
After all, only Grey, Yuna, and similarly crazy people are mad enough to think of the 9th floor as a training ground. Not many people know about what treasures could be found there. Even if there are doubts, there is nothing they could do about it. After all, no one is crazy enough to go there and check.
"Hello, Grey speaking." ［Grey］
「Good morning, Elder Brother Grey! Are you doing well?!」 ［Eliza］
「Hey, Eliza, you're too lively! Behave yourself a little!」 ［Elise］
「Mou... But I just want to talk to Elder Brother Grey...」 ［Eliza］
They were just as energetic as ever. Grey had just picked up the phone yet he could already feel the liveliness from the other side. The two sisters are getting along well as usual, going about their days with enthusiasm.
Since it was still the school break, Elise was now back in Moterno, spending her days with her younger sister and father. Well, it wasn't only her. Eleanora also took the chance and took a break from the capital to spend time with her husband and two lovely daughters.
They've been calling Grey and Yuna every two or three days, asking about their situation and simply chatting happily with them. Fritz and Eleanora also join in from time to time, but it seems that that day is not today. There is still some work left with managing the territory.
"Hahaha. We're doing fine, Liz. Thanks for asking. How about you? You aren't slacking on your training aren't you?" ［Grey］
「Un! My training's going very well! In fact, I just reached E-rank the other day! Aren't I amazing?!」 ［Eliza］
"Oh, really? I'm so proud of you. Looks like our Liz is growing well." ［Grey］
「Hehehe!」 ［Eliza］
There was surprise in Grey's voice, but in actuality, he already knew that Eliza had reached E-rank two days ago from Polaris' regular reports. Still, he was very happy for the young lady, a gentle smile blooming on his face.
The chat continued and they talked about a lot of things from their daily lives, to funny events, and news in town. The others also stopped playing for a little while to greet them, their expressions elated as they talked about the simple things in life.
If there was anything noteworthy, it was that new trade routes have been opened in the kingdom from the coastline territories. Not only did it remind Grey of the seafood dishes he wanted to taste, but also of the beauty of the sea and beaches.
'I should take Yuna to the sea sometimes, huh...' ［Grey］
Such a thought circulating in his mind, Grey continued his chat with Elise and Eliza. He was smiling all the while thinking of how Yuna would react if she ever sees the sea. Another box was added to his mental checklist.
「Geez... If I'd have known you'll be going to the Labyrinth, I would have stayed behind in the capital...」 ［Elise］
"Hahaha. We also didn't plan it thoroughly, so there's that. Well, even if you did go with us, your time with Liz and your family would be cut, wouldn't it?" ［Grey］
「Uuu... That's true...」 ［Elise］
「Elise～! Liz～! It's time for your etiquette lessons～!」 ［Eleanora］
More than twenty minutes have passed since they've started talking and as the sound of a creaking door resounded on the phone, Eleanora's voice followed suit. Soon, silence filled the room as the two ladies listened to their mother.
「Sorry, Grey, we'll have to go now. Mother's calling.」 ［Elise］
「Call you next time, Elder Brother Grey!」 ［Eliza］
"Yeah, yeah, until next time. Take care of yourselves, alright?" ［Grey］
「Un!」 ［Eliza］
A couple of beeps resounded after Eliza's energetic response. The call has ended yet Grey still hasn't returned to the main room. A certain thought circulating inside his kind as he looked at the window, watching the snow fall harder and harder.
It was still a couple hours away from lunch, and neither of them asked for snacks, but seeing the blizzard outside, it made Grey yearn for a certain drink to warm his body. He wasn't particularly cold, but he still wanted to have some.
"Alright, let's do it!" ［Grey］
Everything decided, Grey quickly rummaged through the inventory and took out a couple ingredients from there. There was sugar, cocoa powder, fresh milk, chocolate chips, and marshmallows! A recipe which only spells sweetness.
Since there is still no gelatin in Merusia, Grey has to make do with using marsh mallow roots he happened to get on a quest with Yuna not too long ago. At first, Grey wasn't sure how to use them, but after a few experimentations, he was finally able to make them. It was a sweet success.
Unfortunately, there is only so much marsh mallows he can gather, he still needed to plant some in the "Sanctuary". Of course, it also meant the number of marshmallows he had was limited. The ones he'll be using are the last ones.
"Ah, right... There's still that..." ［Grey］
But of course, what kind of drink would be complete without a couple snacks on the side? Grey quickly thought of a couple things, coming up with a total of three. There was garlic bread, french toast, and chocolate chip cookies!
His mind on the game, Grey quickly turned on the heat, the stove lit ablaze. A clang soon resounded as he placed the saucepan over medium heat, followed by a splash as fresh milk was poured over, letting it sit until warm.
After which, Grey then poured over cocoa powder and sugar on the mix, stirring it gently and adjusting the heat before the mixture started boiling, adding little hints of vanilla extract, a fragrant smell wafting through the kitchen.
With the mixture done and finished, he then served them on a couple cups already filled with chocolate chips and marshmallow, the latter floating thereafter as the cups were filled. It was a simple yet beautiful sight.
"Nice! Next are the sides!" ［Grey］
A satisfied smile on his face, Grey stored the hot cocoa in his "Inventory" to prevent heat loss and then started taking out a number of ingredients to make the sides. It didn't take long before everything was done and finished.
Combining butter, garlic, and some special herbs, a yellow mixture was made. It was then brushed both on both sides of the bread slices, sprinkling over some chopped green onions and parsley, the butter garlic bread was almost finished, only baking needed to be done.
Whilst the garlic was baking, Grey made the french toast mixture with eggs, salt, vanilla, and cinnamon. He then dipped the bread slices in them, cooking them over a battered saucepan, cooking until golden brown. Butter and honey on top, and boom, the french toast is finished.
Next, Grey took out some premade cookie dough, sprinkling over some vanilla and chocolate chips, it was then put into the oven, just in time as the garlic bread was finished baking. A little bit of wait later and the three sides were done!
"Mmn! Perfect!" ［Grey］
A crunch and munch echoing in the kitchen, a satisfied expression bloomed on Grey's face as he had a taste of his creations. One was salty, one was sweet, and one was very sweet. But all in all, they were all delicious treats, something anyone would surely enjoy.
Humming to himself, all the while a gentle smile shined afloat his face, Grey put the hot cocoa and sides atop a large tray before heading back towards the main room. With each step he took, his expression only grew brighter.
"I'm back...?" ［Grey］
But such a bright smile only lasted a couple seconds. The moment his eyes landed towards the others. There was no more happiness, only confusion as his eyes locked with theirs. He was frozen and speechless.
The reason was simple. It was because on the other three's faces, doodles were already drawn all over. And it wasn't only the three of them. The familiars were also covered with red, blue, yellow, and all sorts of vibrant colors.
Yuna now looked like she had a mustache and goatee, Amelia had a monocle and a couple wrinkles, while Julius had the worst look. The man now looked like a certain rapper back on Earth whose faces were littered with colorful tattoos. Grey couldn't believe what he was seeing.
How did things come to this, one might ask? The reason for it is very simple. It was because of Julius. Yep, it is all because of Julius... Again...
They were just playing normally, when all of a sudden, Julius, being the genius that he is, suggested yet another terrific idea. He thought of painting over the face of the loser with a stroke of paint every time they lose. An idea he got after seeing the painting tools Grey has yet to clean up.
Of course, it being his idea, it once again backfired on him. If it was done with black ink, Julius would surely look like a panda on drugs. It reminded Grey of his childhood where he would do the same with his neighbors, only that they were using lipstick.
"Haah... Really, why did you follow that idiot's suggestion?" ［Grey］
"Shorry..." ［Yuna］
Thankfully, the paint was easy to wash off with a wet handkerchief. All it took was a little bit of wiping and it easily came off. Of course, the one to wash Yuna's face was none other than Grey, acting like a parent once again.
"Oh! Grey, this stuff's awesome!" ［Julius］
As for the perpetrator of the idiocy, he was now enjoying the garlic bread happily even when Grey had yet to invite them. The more Grey looked at him, the more he wanted to punch his annoying face.
Well, there was no use getting angry over such things. Because even if he did, Julius, being the idiot that he is, would surely just let it enter one ear and out to the other. It would just be a waste of time and energy.
"Waah～! Hot cocoa! Garlic bread and cookies too!" ［Yuna］
"Yuna, be careful not to burn your tongue, Ah, here, Amelia, have yours too." ［Grey］
"Fufu. Thank you very much, Grey." ［Amelia］
Smiles and giggles all over the place, Yuna and Amelia also partook in the little snack break with happy expressions. Yuna took some cookies, Amelia had some french toast, and Julius continued wolfing down the garlic bread.
"Mmn～! Hot cocoa's the best!" ［Yuna］
"So sweet! And it also melts in my mouth!" ［Amelia］
"Hey, Grey, do you have more of these things?!" ［Julius］
All the feedback was positive. Everyone enjoyed their snacks, sweetness flooding their mouths and their bodies warmed with a sip of hot cocoa. It was the perfect combination to taste on a cold, snowy day.
"Grey, 200 thousand! Let me buy this recipe!" ［Julius］
"No way. We found it in the Labyrinth, you know? I'm not selling." ［Grey］
"Labyrinth, my ass! Do you think that excuse will work every time?! 300 thousand!" ［Julius］
"No." ［Grey］
"Then how about..." ［Julius］
But of course, what day would be truly complete without another session of bickering between Grey and Julius. It has already become a daily routine that Yuna and Amelia have already gotten used to it. Simply enjoying their hot cocoas with a merry chat,
The boys bantering, the girls giggling, and the freezing winds howling. A cacophony of noises echoed throughout the city as the winds of white continued to push through. Such scenes unfolded as the snacks atop the table vanished one after another.
CHAPTER 182 END