"Hehehe! Hehe! That ticklesh!" ［Natalia］
Soft and merry giggles chimed in the air, six balls of fluff running around the place. The little princess runs and they chase after, stumbling and tumbling on the soft, green grass and cuddling with one another.
The little princess giggled and the furballs woofed back, continuing to run around even though they had already fallen over many times already. It was a warm and fluffy scene watched over by a few figures, eyes full of happiness.
Snap Snap Snap
And of course, what better way to preserve such an adorable and precious scene is there than taking photos of it? And so, Grey has been snapping photos here and there, capturing the best of shots and angles like a professional photographer.
Though the Queen and Crown Princess were watching, Grey didn't shy away in using the camera in front of them. Julius already knew that he had some odd things on him. There was no harm if another person or two knew about it.
Well, it's not like they can do it anyway. Other than the fact that Grey was the only one who knew how to make them with his knowledge in science, magic, and rune making, there was also the fact only he could produce the photo papers. Even if they were to reverse-engineer things, there is only so much they can accomplish.
Even then, Grey still made sure to use the same convenient lieー I mean, excuse that he used with Julius. With him saying that they found it in the Labyrinth, even if they were Kings of Emperors, they could only give up.
Though many would surely suspect if their claims were real, there was only so much they could do against Grey and Yuna who have established connections with many important figures. Only they could decide if they want to give them one or not.
"Hmm... This looks good... This one too... Oh! This is perfect!" ［Grey］
Joy and excitement were plastered on Grey's face as he admired the photos he took. Photos which fully captured the adorableness of the little princess and the familiars playing happily in the Royal Gardens, smiling ever so brightly.
Though it was a shame that Polaris was already returned to Eliza's side, there was only so much he could do about it. Nevertheless, he was already satisfied with the photos that he took, grinning like a doting father.
If there was one thing Grey regretted the most, it was that he didn't take pictures of the little princess the days prior. He completely forgot after their exhausting adventure in the Labyrinth. The only thing which soothed his heart was seeing their lovely smiles.
"Aunthie! Aunthie! Here! Here! Catcsh Nalia!" ［Natalia］
"Slow down, Natalia! You're too quick!" ［Iris］
"No! Nalia not wuick! Aunthie, shlow!" ［Natalia］
"Ehhh?!" ［Iris］
Well, it wasn't just the little princess who was playing. Iris and Yuna were also playing with them, taking slow turns in getting chased and chasing after. Of course, the familiars were also part of the game, Vega, Kentaurus, and Canopus being just as energetic as the little princess.
On the contrary, just like Natalia had previously said, Iris really was very slow. Well, rather than slow, she was just bad at running. Really, really bad at running. It was to the point she couldn't even catch the little princess who was still 2 years old.
Yuna wasn't running too fast either, maintaining a pace which even toddlers like the little princess can catch up to, letting herself be caught from time to time. Both her childish and motherly side were on play.
"Haah... Haah... Haah... So fast..." ［Iris］
"Iris, are you okay? Do you need a break? How about water?" ［Yuna］
"N... No... I can still go on..." ［Iris］
Or so she says, but she has been sweating bullets for some time already, grasping her breath in rapid succession. Even then, even with how terrible she was at the game, she was enjoying it to the fullest, playing to her heart's content.
"Okay... Then just let me know if youー Oh?!" ［Yuna］
"There! I caught Elder Sister Yuna!" ［Iris］
Yuna couldn't even react, or rather, she just chose not to. She already knew Iris was going to lunge at her with open arms, so she just stood there carefreely, waiting for the latter to catch her. And it was just as she expected. Now, the Princess Royal was clinging unto her.
"My... It seems like I've been caught..." ［Yuna］
"Hehehe!" ［Iris］
"Okay then.... Since I've been caught, I'll give you 20 seconds to run. Run as far away as you can, okay?" ［Yuna］
"Y-Yes!" ［Iris］
Rapid footsteps echoed in the air as the numbers counted up. Though Yuna gave quite a bit of time to run, Iris didn't really get away really far. Still, she tried her best and that's all that matters.
Whilst the girls and familiars continued playing tag, Grey also continued snapping photos of them, drying the photos, and compiling them. The only times he stopped was when he needed to refill the photo papers and when showing the pictures to the Queen and Crown Princess.
"Your Majesty, Missus Natasha, what do you think of these?" ［Grey］
"How beautiful... These photos really are fantastic..." ［Natasha］
"Oh! Oh, goodness! How adorable! Natasha, look at this! Our Iris and Natalia looks so cute here! Look! Look!" ［Talia］
"You're right, Mother... Ah! Here's another one!" ［Natasha］
Well, there was no need to ask what their reactions were. The way they looked at them play with such warm and loving eyes, it was obvious that they were the type to dote on the children. It was fortunate that the King and Crown Prince weren't there. Else, they would have surely gone crazy over praising them.
Of course, they weren't the only ones who were enjoying themselves. Grey was also happy to have snapped a few photos of Yuna, which, as one would have guessed, would go into his "Yuna collection" sooner or later.
"Still... Is it really fine for us to keep such amazing photos?" ［Talia］
"That's right. I'm sure these pictures would fetch quite a hefty sum. Is it really okay for us to have these, Grey?" ［Natasha］
"Of course. Just think of it as a present. There isn't anything wrong with giving presents to the Royal Family, is there?" ［Grey］
"... No... No, there isn't..." ［Talia］
Shaking her head ever so gently, the Queen could not refute Grey's goodwill anymore. When he says it that way, it would only be rude if they decline. They were both very thankful for the wonderful gifts they received.
Well, speaking of presents... There was a better one Grey had been thinking of giving the Royal Family. It was the very camera he's been holding ontoー another replica of the camera, to be exact.
Other than the fact Julius has been bothering him every time he had the chance to, he had also given a camera to Kris and Aria already so it's only going to be a matter of time before people find out and start asking about them.
It wasn't only the camera. The same thing also goes for the cellphones. They were tools which would allow people to commemorate memories and connect with their loved ones. A privilege Grey thinks everyone should have,
Well, it's still a plan in his mind. One he is still considering after weighing down the pros and cons, anc considering the effects it may bring to the world. For now, he is fully satisfied watching the children and familiars play with Yuna, a little gentle smile forming on his lips.
Time passed and after several hours of playing with Grey, Yuna, and the familiars, the little princess finally fell asleep. And it wasn't only her. Iris, who was unused to playing so energetically, had also fallen asleep, resting their heads on the familiars' soft and fluffy bodies.
"My... Would you look at this... It seems like they're really tired..." ［Talia］
"Should I have them carried to their rooms, Your Majesty?" ［Grey］
"If it isn't too much trouble, then please, and thank you." ［Talia］
"Hahaha. It's my pleasure." ［Grey］
Grey's laughs slowly drifting in the air, he gave a signal to signal to the familiars. The latter then grew their bodies to the size of that of adult wolves, helping one another to carry the sleeping princesses like a soft and fluffy carriage.
Gentle as one can be, the familiars headed to the little princess' room alone. Though Iris has a room of her own, it was decided that it was best to have the two of them sleep together, cuddling each other, now in the embrace of their comfortable beds.
"Fufufu! My daughter and granddaughter sleeping peacefully... What a beautiful sight, wouldn't you agree?" ［Talia］
"I agree, Mother. They look so peaceful..." ［Natasha］
"Un! Iris and Natalia are so cute～!" ［Yuna］
Soft snores and fleeting giggles danced around the air as people slowly exited the little princess' room, leaving the two princesses to play in dreamland. The sun had almost reached its Zenith, a peaceful atmosphere looming over the room.
"Well then, I'll be heading out now, Grey, Yuna. Thank you for everything," ［Talia］
"Don't worry about it, Your Majesty. We also enjoyed playing with Iris and the Little Princess. It was a fun experience for us." ［Grey］
"Un! It was no trouble at all! If anything, we'd love to play with the princesses more! I'm sure it will be a lot of fun!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! I'm glad to hear that. I'm sure Iris and Natalia would also love to. I would appreciate it if you continued playing with them." ［Talia］
A happy atmosphere about them, it wasn't long before everyone went their own ways. The Queen headed to the throne room to attend to her duties, the Crown Princess headed to her office for her studies, and lastly, Grey and Yuna headed back to their rooms to rest a littleー
"Grey! Yuna!" ［Ernes］
Stomp Stomp Stomp
... Or so they were going to. But they were still in the corridors when a loud voice boomed towards them. The owner of such a voice was none other than the King who was now marching aggressively towards them, his footsteps echoing in the air.
The King was still quite a distance away but Grey and Yuna could already feel the tension in the air. They didn't know what he wanted from them, but they could only smell trouble. Big trouble, that is.
"A-Ah... What seems to be the problem, Your Majesty?" ［Grey］
"What's the problem?! You're asking me what's the problem?! Are you really asking me that?! How unbelievable!" ［Ernes］
Repeating himself over and over again, the King's voice only became higher and more furious-sounding with time. The closer he became, the louder and more chaotic his steps became. He was alone but it sounded as if a whole squad of knights was marching ever so fervently.
Well, it doesn't take a genius to know what the King would be upset about. There was only one thing Grey and Yuna could think of that would make the King react in such an excessive and dramatic way.
"What's this I'm hearing about Grey reaching Calamity-Class?! Not only that! I heard one of your familiars is one too! You better explain yourself!" ［Ernes］
And... They were right. Their predictions were very much on point, even. By the time the King finished his words he was already in front of them, eyes wide open, asking for an answer. One can't say it was comfortable.
"Hmm... You must have heard wrong, Your Majesty. I mean, me, at Calamity-Class? That's a good joke if I've ever heard one." ［Grey］
"That's right, Your Majesty. I'm sure it's another one of Julius' pranks." ［Yuna］
"I never said I heard it from Julius." ［Ernes］
Silence struck, fast as lightning, and soon, the thunder called awkwardness followed. All eyes were on Yuna as she realized how she fumbled, her face painted a rosy tint. It also didn't help that her eyes were swimming away at the moment. It was a good attempt but, unfortunately, it was not good enough.
"Haah... I heard it from Duke Redlocke just this morning. And judging from your reactions... It seems like it's true..." ［Ernes］
There was no use denying it anymore. After all, there are only so many times you can try to fool someone. They already expected that it would be revealed sooner or later, but they never thought it would be so soon.
Well, what was most surprising was that it wasn't Julius who spilled the beans, but rather, Amelia. It all happened while she was telling her family stories about how the trip went, accidentally talking about it due to her excitement. It was one of her rare, clumsy moments.
Having heard of it, Duke Redlocke, after one of their regular meetings, asked the King to extend his congratulations to Grey, not knowing the King also didn't know of such a thing. There was also an awkward atmosphere about them at the time and the rest is history.
As for Julius, well... He is busy with his studies in the Royal Academy. And every time he eats dinner with everyone, he would mostly spend his time bantering and bickering with Grey, totally forgetting about everything else.
"Haah... Really... You always find ways to surprise me..." ［Ernes］
Said the King as he massaged the center of his brows, head clearly aching. Though he already expected Grey to reach Calamity-Class, the latter was still too fast. He could only smile nervously at his potential.
It would be a lie to say that he doesn't have even the smallest bit of desire to have them as vassals, but he is already satisfied with everything. He is already far too indebted with them and would rather have them keep their freedom. It was the least he could do to repay them.
"Alright then, you two, follow me. We'll have your privilege cards updated." ［Ernes］
"Eh? Do we really need to do that? I'm perfectly satisfied with an S-rank privilege card. I'm perfectly fine." ［Grey］
"Of course. This is an exemplary achievement! We need to register you as soon as possible! That way, the whole world would know of your glory! Hahahaha!" ［Ernes］
Well, he might want them free, but he also wants to brag around that their heroes and the royal family's acquaintances are geniuses. They weren't even his children, vassals, nor citizens, yet he is already acting so proudly.
Surprisingly, his reason was in no way related to politics or anything or the sort. It was just another one of his idiotic shenanigans. One which he hasn't thought of the consequences yet. It was yet another troublesome situation.
"Come on now! We don't have the whole day! Hurry! Hurry!" ［Ernes］
"W-Wair, Your Majeー" ［Grey］
"Ah! There you are! I've been looking for you two!" ［Vanessa］
They haven't even dealt with the King yet another troublesome character appeared before them, running around ever so energetically and recklessly despite her bulging stomach. It was the pregnant and airheaded Big Sister, Vanessa!
"I've heard from Her Majesty! You made a lot of sweets yesterday! Why didn't you invite me?! That's so mean!" ［Vanessa］
She was even more troublesome than the King, like a little child whining over not getting a share of the treats their parents brought home. Not to mention she was a High-Ranker, making things even more difficult.
"Hey! Grey, Yuna! Come one! Let's head to the Royal Kitchen!" ［Vanessa］
"Oh! That doesn't sound so bad as well! I've also been wanting to eat some again. I guess the update could wait." ［Ernes］
"Your Majesty, you really are a wise King! All hail his Majesty!" ［Vanessa］
"Hahaha! You're praising me too much, but I guess I do have credit in that regard! You know me too well, Vanessa! Hahaha!" ［Ernes］
Gey and Yuna couldn't even follow the conversation anymore. The conversation about updating the cards is now too far gone, replaced with the talk of sweets and the laughter of two individuals echoing loud and clear in the kitchen.
Of course, Grey wouldn't just let themselves be strung along by their unpredictable flow. Not letting the opportunity that they are still distracted slip, Grey quickly thought of a way to escape the current situation, getting a solution not long after,
"Haah... Alright then, we'llー Ah! Mister Ranzel! Your Honor! Over here!" ［Grey］
Well, actually, there was no need to think too hard. There was an extremely easy way, after all, All Grey needed to do was yell out to names, the King and Vanessa's heads turning around soon after.
At the same time, while they were still distracted, Grey quickly grabbed Yuna by the hand and increased the distance between them by a couple dozen meters in just mere fractions of a second, effectively running away.
"Geez, Grey! You scared meー" ［Vanessa］
By the time they noticed, it was already far too late. Grey had already created a gate, his and Yuna's bodies already halfway inside. Their faces which were once troubled were now filled with brightness, waving their hands goodbye.
Though it was a shame that they needed to leave a couple things in their rooms behind, there is only so much they could do about it. They would rather have it that way than be strung along the two's shenanigans. It was a worth-it trade off.
"Your Majesty, I just remembered that we have something important to do. Please tell the princesses we're sorry we couldn't play with them for the time being." ［Grey］
"Goodbye, Your Majesty! Goodbye Big Sis Vanessa! See you next time!" ［Yuna］
"Wait! Grey, Yunー" ［Ernes］
The King couldn't even finish his words when the gate suddenly closed, Grey and Yuna nowhere to be seen. An empty and barren atmosphere surrounded him and Vanessa as the winds of silence blew past them.
Meanwhile, at the other end of the gate, Grey and Yuna safely arrived at their home, their bodies softly landing on the master bedroom's bed, a soft and fluffy sound soon resounding in the air as they fell towards it.
Frozen, the two were but their hearts were still racing. They looked at the familiar ceiling above them, reevaluating and adjusting about what just happened, before slowly turning their heads towards one another.
"Pfft... Puha... Hahahaha!" ［Grey］
"Fufufu! Fuhaha! Hahaha!" ［Yuna］
A burst of laughter rang out as soon as they met one another's eyes, still in disbelief about what just happened. Though it was a little silly, it being only escaping from the King and Vanessa, they found it strangely funny.
Especially after seeing their surprised faces as they turned around. They were just like kids who just successfully ran away after pranking someone. The merry laughter continued as the two sprawled leisurely and comfortably on the bed.
"Hehe... That was fun! Should we do it again?" ［Yuna］
"Nah... I think I've had enough troubles for one day. You could even say it's already too much. Maybe next time." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! Then next time it is!" ［Yuna］
Smiles were afloat the place as Grey and Yuna finally and fully realized they were truly home, resting in their bed. A pleasant and comfortable feeling surging in their hearts. Home truly was the best place, after all.
Well, of course, now that they're home and alone together, they could finally do more intimate things with one another. Like a small animal, Yuna slowly approached Grey, pouncing and clinging to the latter soon after. She yearned for cuddles and cuddles is what she gets.
"Hey, Yuna... Let's wash up first, alright? I'm still a little sweaty from playing. Let's cuddle later, okay?" ［Grey］
"No way... I'm also the same so there's no problem. I won't let go!" ［Yuna］
"Yuna, just a quick minute, alrightー" ［Grey］
"No! And that's final!" ［Yuna］
It was useless negotiating. With the way Yuna is now, she wouldn't be backing down. After all, they have been separated for a month, and though they do call each other, there was still a lack of warmth and physical contact. She's only making up for the time they lost.
Well, it's not like Grey couldn't understand her nor does he hate her being clingy. Still, he wanted to at least smell fresh when cuddling with Yuna. He only wants to be in his best for her, after all.
"Haah... Then how long should we cuddle?" ［Grey］
"Mmn... Four hoursー no, five hours!" ［Yuna］
"That's quite a long time..." ［Grey］
"Un! After all, I love you thi～s muchー" ［Yuna］
Groowwwllllll
So much for five hours, it hasn't even been a minute and Yuna's stomach already started growling. She was still stretching her hands out in a big motion, freezing as her stomach growled, her face quickly turning red.
"Haha,Ha Then how about we cuddle after we have lunch? That's fine, right?" ［Grey］
"Un... Let's do that..." ［Yuna］
An embarrassed Yuna and a smiling Grey. Such were the faces of the two as they went out their bedroom and down the stairs. They then headed down the kitchen, took out some ingredients, and cooked a delicious meal for themselves.
Home really is the best!
CHAPTER 200 END