Flip Flip Flip Scritch Scritch Scritch
Books, books, and more books. Words, numbers, and symbols were all over the place, new characters appearing as ink cruised smoothly across the paper. A little lady, face full of seriousness, yet ever so adorable, writing them one after another.
Letters became words, and words became sentences, then sentences soon became paragraphs. Not just one, but several dozen paragraphs were written across many pages, composing a long, long, long essay.
"Teacher, I'm done." ［Eliza］
"Hmm... Let's see..." ［Teacher］
The little lady handed over her work to her teacher, the latter scrutinizing it carefully, not missing a single line as her eyes streaked from left to right. Awkward and nervous silence was enveloping the room as the teacher read the papers.
"Hmm... This isn't perfect..." ［Teacher］
"Oh..." ［Eliza］
"But this is already excellent for your age. Good work, Lady Eliza." ［Teacher］
The teacher beamed a smile, and Eliza's lips soon arched to follow suit. Relief flowed uncontrollably in her heart, her expressions loosening and heart calming down. It was a long essay, after all. She didn't want to do a repeat.
"Then that will be all for now. See you tomorrow, Lady Eliza." ［Teacher］
"Un! See you tomorrow too, Teacher!" ［Eliza］
The study session was finally over, and with her teacher walking dismissing her, she could finally head out the room, grasping a breath of fresh air as soon as she was out and about. A happy expression was on her face, skipping her steps energetically.
Eliza hummed herself a melodic song as she looked outside the window, greeting the birds and flowers with a bright smile. The maids and servants greeted her as she passed by her in the corridors, returning a smile to her.
Why was the young lady happy, one might ask? Was it because she was now done with her studies? Well, partly, but the real reason was that Yuna had promised her to visit this week. She didn't know what day specifically, but she was looking forward to it, really excitedly.
"Lady Eliza, there's some people looking for you at theー" ［Sebastian］
"Un! Thank you!" ［Eliza］
"Oh?" ［Sebastian］
Sebastian couldn't even finish his words. As soon as Eliza heard people were looking for her, she quickly dashed down the corridors, passing through Sebastian who was still puzzled, standing frozen and speechless, alone in the hallway.
Rapid footsteps echoed in the air as Eliza continued darting through the mansion, even jumping down the stairs, continuing to dash towards the doors as soon as she regained her footing. It was not only her, Polaris also followed after her, running just as quickly as she was.
A couple more seconds of running later, the gate was in view. Not just the gate, but two familiar figures also came to sight. Their hair colors may be different, but she could clearly tell it was them. It was Grey and Yuna.
"Elder Sister Yuna! Elder Brother Grey! You're here!" ［Eliza］
There was no warning. As soon as she was in range, she quickly pounced towards Yuna, grabbing her waist and giving her a big embrace. Her actions were so sudden, the guards couldn't help but be surprised as they saw her.
"My, Liz, you should be more careful." ［Yuna］
"Teehee! I just missed you both!" ［Eliza］
"Fufufu! We missed you too." ［Yuna］
Everyone was smiling and giggling, but if Yuna was any normal person, her bones would have broken from Eliza's sudden pounce. Well, what mattered was that everyone was happy. That's all that matters.
『Greetings, Master, Mistress.』 ［Polaris］
『Yeah. Good to see you too, Polaris. Would you like to meet with the others again? I'm sure they missed you too.』 ［Grey］
『I would love that, Master.』 ［Polaris］
Well, it wasn't only Eliza who missed them. There was also Polaris. Though they just met less than a month ago, they barely spent time with one another besides training. It has been a while since they spent time in a relaxed atmosphere.
Of course, the same went for the other familiars. After all, they treat Polaris, the first familiar, as their eldest sibling. Even Vega and Capella, who barely knows Polaris, respects him heavily and relies on him whenever he is around. They are all part of Grey and Yuna's previous family.
『It's good to see you again, Eldest Brother.』 ［Sirius］
『E... Eldest Brother... G-Good afternoon...』 ［Capella］
『Eldest Brother! 'Been a while! How are you doing?!』 ［Vega］
As soon as Grey summoned the familiars, they quickly gathered around Polaris and gave them their greetings. Of course, as usual, Vega was the most energetic. She quickly pounced on him as soon as she was released. Truly a menace.
"Elder Brother Grey! Elder Sister Yuna! Everyone! Let's head inside!" ［Eliza］
An energetic smile on her face, Eliza invited Grey and Yuna over, holding both of their hands with great enthusiasm. She was like an excited child dragging her parents along to show them a drawing she just made, very proudly at that.
"And then yesterday, Rosa baked me a strawberry cake! It was very delicious! The strawberries were very sweet and tasty! It was cold too! The cream just melts in your mouth! They're like clouds!" ［Eliza］
As if running hundreds of meters was not enough to run out of breath, she was now talking rapidly, words fired like a machine gun. She couldn't control her excitement anymore, chatting with Grey and Yuna as if someone was chasing after her. She really was a little chatterbox.
"Oh? Then should we make it sometimes then? A strawberry cake that is." ［Grey］
"Really?! Strawberry cake?!" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, we'll make one, but... Yuna, why are you the one answering? You do know I'm asking Liz right, right? And you've already had too many sweets lately." ［Grey］
"It's okay! Strawberry cake is delicious, after all! Right, Liz?" ［Yuna］
"Un! It's very delicious! I also want to eat some!" ［Eliza］
It was like there were two Yunas in front of him, both as energetic as the other. Grey could only laugh wryly. Though they were both adorable, he couldn't help but wonder when exactly did Eliza start copying Yuna. It really was a mystery.
"Ah! Should we go to the training grounds?! I want to show Elder Sister Yuna and Elder Brother Grey my progress." ［Eliza］
"Alright, we'd also love toー No, actually, can it wait a little bit?" ［Grey］
"Eh? Why?" ［Eliza］
Like the free wind, Eliza's expressions quickly changed as soon as she heard Grey's words. From an excited smile, her emotions quickly drooped down to one full of gloom, obviously crestfallen. A disheartening sight.
"Well, you see... I have something to ask Fritz. I want to consult him about something. Is he available right now?" ［Grey］
"Father shouldn't be very busy, but..." ［Eliza］
"But...?" ［Grey］
"I thought I could finally play with you again... But instead, you're going to consult with Father... It's just unfair..." ［Eliza］
Gloomy. Very gloomy. No matter which angle Grey would look at it, it would seem like he was a bad guy who is disheartening an adorable little child. He could feel guilt brew inside his heart as he continued to loom at Eliza's downhearted expression.
Well, what was more worrying was the fact that the little lady was becoming more and more like Yuna every time they met. They weren't even meeting and only talking over the phone most of the time, but not only Yuna's appetite and habits, her neediness had started to rub on her too.
『Yuna, a little help please.』 ［Grey］
『Fufufu! Then I'll be collecting my reward hugs later.』 ［Yuna］
Worrying about Eliza's future, Grey's eyes swam towards Yuna's direction, asking for help, the latter accepting with a little silly condition. Grey could only hope deep in his heart Eliza wouldn't also get influenced by Yuna's clinginess and antics. He could only imagine the outcome otherwise.
"Now, now, don't be too sad, Liz. After we talk with Fritz, we'll play with you all you want. We'll be staying here for a couple days, after all!" ［Yuna］
"R-Really?! You'll stay over?!" ［Eliza］
"Un! But only if your Father allows it." ［Yuna］
Said Yuna as she gently touched the tip of Eliza's nose. Just like that, Eliza's mood improved by leaps and bounds, her blinding smile illuminating the place. Grey once realized how good Yuna really was at handling children.
'She'll really become a good mother one day... I wonder if our children will also get attached to her like Liz is...' ［Grey］
Thought Grey as he watched the interaction between the two, the last parts of his statements echoing inside his head over and over again, his face turning red each and every time. A silent self-destruction.
Though he's gone quite far with Yuna already, having children was still out of the question. It wasn't that he didn't want to, it was just still too early for them. They aren't even married nor engaged, children would still be a few years after. Grey could only anticipate what future awaits him.
"Grey, your face is red. Are you not feeling well?" ［Yuna］
"Ah, no... This is nothing. It's just a little hot." ［Grey］
Dodging the topic ever so smoothly, Grey and Yuna then chatted with Eliza for a little while, leaving the familiars to play with her before they left for Fritz's office.
It was not too far away so it only took them a couple minutes of walking, arriving before a familiar door. They haven't even entered yet they could already hear Fritz's mumbling and scribbling from the other side.
Knock Knock Knock
The classic triple knocks echoed in the hallway as Grey lightly tapped the door, immediately alerting Fritz who was on the other side of the door, his eyes drifting towards the source as he wondered who was on the other side.
"Fritz, it's us." ［Grey］
"Oh, Grey, Yuna, come in. I already heard from Sebastian, but to think you really did visit, I can't say I'm not surprised." ［Fritz］
"Well, we promised Liz, after all." ［Grey］
Along with Grey's words, a quiet clack and creak resounded in the air as soon as the doors opened. What greeted the two as soon as they entered was a high mountain of documents. It was a familiar sight they have encountered a couple times already.
"Oh? Did you dye your hair? It looks good on you." ［Fritz］
"Ah, right..." ［Grey］
It was only when Fritz mentioned it that Grey and Yuna realized they were still in their disguises. As soon as they did, they quickly undid the illusion magic and returned to their normal appearances, hair turning black and silver respectively.
They were then offered seats to relax, just parallel from where Fritz was sitting from. And continuing the courtesy, Fritz also offered a couple shacks and tea for the two. It was just too convenient, the two couldn't help but think he knew they were coming.
"Ahem! Anyway, are you free right now? We have something to consult with you about. But... if you're busy, we could come backー" ［Grey］
"No. Now is fine. I'm just about to finish with my paperwork anyway. Although... It is rare that you ask me for consultation. Did something happen?" ［Fritz］
"Rather than something happened... It would be more appropriate to say that something might happen." ［Grey］
At Grey's words, Fritz could only tilt his head in confusion. Well, not just him. Even Yuna who was with Grey. Though Grey already told Yuna that he had something to consult with Fritz, he never said what. She was only there to accompany him.
Thunk Clack Clack
A series of clacks and thunks echoed in succession as a couple items were placed atop the desk. With each and every item added, Fritz's eyes followed quietly, curiosity and confusion brewing inside.
"Hm? These are...?" ［Fritz］
Now, Fritz was even more confused. All the things in front of him were foreign to his eyes. Though he could guess what they might be, he was still in the dark about what they are used for. He only knew one item among them.
What are the things Grey took out? They are the "inventions" he brought to Merusia. There was the phone, the camera, the board and card games, and a couple more things he made to make life easier like the blender from before. It was only then that Yuna understood what Grey was on about.
"Well.., to put it simply, these are the magic tools and games I made over the years. There are still more, but these should be enough for now." ［Grey］
"I see... There sure are a lot, huh... But what does this have to do with me?" ［Fritz］
"That's... Actually..." ［Grey］
Before heading straight to the problem, Grey first introduced the things he brought to the desk and explained what they do briefly. After which, he then tackled the problem, Fritz listening attentively, nodding his head from time to time.
Though he wasn't worried about the board games and appliances spreading all over the world, it was not the same for the camera and the phone. After all, they aren't merely any magic tool. They were revolutionary inventions which brought forth a lot of change in Earth's history.
Of course, Grey's intentions in spreading them are only purely so that the people could enjoy the happiness he and Yuna are privileged with. Unfortunately, like everything else, such innocent things could also be used in malicious ways.
Both the phone and camera could be used to improve communication, espionage, and intelligence of a military force. If used wrongly, it could bring more harm than good, something Grey would love to avoid at all cost.
Not to mention that the materials used for those two are quite expensive. This means that only wealthy merchants, nobles, and royalty would be able to buy them. It was far from Grey's desire for the common people to use them. There were just too many demerits for them.
"I see... I see... I understand your point. It really would be a problem." ［Fritz］
"Right? That's why I'm asking you for advice. I'm sure with your years of experience, you should know the answer." ［Grey］
"Hahaha. You're overestimating me too much. But, how do I say this... Grey, aren't you just overthinking things too much?" ［Fritz］
It was an unexpected answer. Now, the tables are turned and it was Grey who was confused with Fritz's words. The latter simply had a sip from his cup of tea, just like Yuna who was very much enjoying herself with the treats.
"Look, Grey, I know you invented these things, but you should know that even if you didn't, it would only be a matter of time before people manage to make one. Things would always progress with time. You're simply speeding up the process." ［Fritz］
"You're right... But wouldn't it be bad if some big figues try to misuse them? I'm sure there aren't just one or two of them." ［Grey］
"I suppose that's true, but I think you're missing a little detail here, Grey... You're one of the 'Heroes of Alfrione'." ［Fritz］
A simple declaration, but it made such a huge impact on Grey's thoughts. After all, it wasn't just a mere title, it was one they earned through their strength and efforts. It was one which carried authority backed by the Royal Family of Alfrione.
Well, now, not only the Royal Family of Alfrione, but the Royal Family of Ingrasia and Imperial Family of Valliarta. They even have relations with the Azure Sword Emperor. No matter how one looks at it, they already have powerful connections.
Even without connections, Grey and Yuna's strengths alone are enough. Just them and their familiars are enough to make anyone think twice before doing anything against them. Even countries need to tread carefully.
"I know you don't like being treated as / noble and the like, but you should realize the authority you carry. Your name alone is enough to make people submit." ［Fritz］
"Hey, don't talk as if I'm the devil or something." ［Grey］
"Hm? But am I wrong?" ［Fritz］
Grey could only remain silent as he faced Fritz's question. He couldn't find any retorts nor rebuttal against him. All he could was heave a lengthy sigh, finally resigning from his views and accepting reality.
"Haah... I give up. I'll just do what I want then." ［Grey］
"Now that's more like it... Just make sure not to go overboard. These inventions are already enough for now. Any more and it would be troublesome." ［Fritz］
"Yeah, I'll keep that in mind." ［Grey］
All of Grey's worries were now gone. Though it was only a short while, he could now breathe more comfortably, his heart feeling much lighter. He couldn't believe he worried so much about something so simple.
"By the way, what's the deal with this new paperwork? There's even more than the last time." ［Grey］
"Haah... You could say that again..." ［Fritz］
Fritz sighed, recounting the hell he went through in the past couple months. It wasn't just managing the territory, he also helped out the neighboring provinces, did work for the newly discovered mines, worked with diplomacy, fixed a number of problems, and many, many more.
Long story short, Fritz was rewarded for his indispensable efforts and he received the rank of "Count" and granted more provinces to expand their territory. And from now henceforth, they shall be known as the Landevar Comital Household.
"Ohh! Congratulations, Fritz!" ［Yuna］
"Then it seems you'll be addressed as 'Your Excellency' from now on, huh. Congratulations." ［Grey］
"Yeah, yeah, thanks a lot," ［Fritz］
Fritz couldn't even smile about it. Though it is a good thing for the house, it was only hell for him. He needed to work with more documents in order to incorporate the new provinces into the Landevar territory. He has been working for days upon days to achieve that end.
Well, it hasn't been made official yet, not without the formal bestowal which will take place next month in the Royal Capital. The only good thing was that he and Eliza could see Eleanora and Elise again. The reward for his hard work.
"Right, Fritz, about the things we just talked about. Would you like to handle the marketing of the items again? I'm not really good at it, you see." ［Grey］
Silence. All there was was silence as Fritz stared deep into Grey's eyes. It was as if he just heard something absurd, shaking his head afterwards, a look of disbelief and gloom plastered on his face.
"Haah... And here I thought I could finally rest..." ［Fritz］
"Haha, sorry..." ［Grey］
"No, it's alright. This is for the good of the household anyway. I can't just let the opportunity pass by." ［Fritz］
There was tiredness in his voice, but Fritz did not let it drag him down. He simply drank on his cup of tea again and accepted Grey's proposition. After all, there was still the reward he was looking forward to.
Creaaakkkk
Just as they finished their discussion, a silent creak resounded in the door, the door opening ever so slightly. Soon, a pair of blue orbs peeked inside the office. It was Eliza who had just finished playing with the familiars.
"Is something wrong, Liz?" ［Yuna］
"No, umm... Are you finished with your discussion...?" ［Eliza］
Meekly, the little lady asked. Though it was fun playing with the familiars, she still wanted to play with Grey and Yuna. But she didn't want to be selfish, hence the reason why she was only peeking shyly from the doors.
"Fufufu! Un! We just finished. Do you want to play right now?" ［Yuna］
There was no direct answer from Eliza's side, her eyes simply sparkled brightly, her head nodding aggressively, showing how happy she was. Everyone could only look at her warmly, gentle smiles spread on their faces.
"Well then, it seems we'll have to get going now. Thank you, Fritz." ［Grey］
"Sure, anytime." ［Fritz］
Everything done and settled, Grey and Yuna then left the office. As soon as they were outside, it wasn't only Eliza's excited stares which greeted them. The familiars were also waiting enthusiastically, wagging their tails cutely.
"Fufufu! Shall we get started then?" ［Yuna］
"Un!" ［Eliza］
CHAPTER 207 END