Chatter Chatter Chatter
The place was full of noise and energy, lively folks walking and running from place to place, a cheerful exchange from left and right. The marketplace was very much merry and bustling, children playing around like little rabbits on the loose.
There weren't only stalls, there were also stores by the roadside. From boutiques, cafes, bakeries, merchandise stores, and many more, there are a lot of varieties, selling each and every product one could think of.
"Thank you for the patronage!"
Cling Cling Cling
The chimes rang sofly and the glass doors soon opened, a bright and professional smile painted on the employee's face as she saw off their customers. Soon after some left, more people entered. It was a bright and busy day for the cafe.
Amongst the customers, two hooded figures exited with smiles blooming on their faces, eyes swimming left and right as they scanned the stalls and stores neatly laid on the streets. On their hands were a couple of paper bags full of wonderful treats and snacks to enjoy.
"Grey, try this one too, it's delicious!" ［Yuna］
"Eh～? But everything's always delicious for you!" ［Grey］
"No! This time, it's really delicious! Like, super delicious!" ［Yuna］
"Hmm... I'll have a taste then..." ［Grey］
Not resisting Yuna's invitation, Grey simply lowered his head, taking a bite of the bread Yuna was holding onto. It was just all too sudden. Yuna couldn't help but be flustered by Grey's bold actions, her face looking a little feverish.
"Oh, you're right... it's goodー Hm? Are you okay, Yuna?" ［Grey］
"A-Ah... Un... I'm fine..." ［Yuna］
Or so she says, but she was red all the way to the tip of her ears. Thankfully, a hood was covering her face so she was able to escape from embarrassment. Otherwise, her face would have turned even redder.
Well, it wasn't only her. Though Grey was acting nonchalant, unfazed by his sudden actions, he was also a little embarrassed. Their relationship has gone on for several months already, he still couldn't help but get flustered. Some things never change. He couldn't help but smile.
"Right, this should be it." ［Grey］
"A-Ah, un!" ［Yuna］
Yuna still flustered, the two entered yet another store, the soft chimes dancing in the air once again. It was a large furniture store, beautiful mattresses, lamps, desks and drawers displayed ever so neatly, a warm reception welcoming them.
It has been more than a week since Grey and Yuna arrived at Moterno, and after staying there for a few days, they finally went home and enjoyed their days in a leisurely and comfortable manner, going at their own pace and taking adventures from time to time.
With Grey's massive increase in Combat Power, his abilities also increased. Now, his "Sanctuary" which once had a diameter of two kilometers now has a diameter of about six kilometers. A massive increase which was always welcome.
Of course, with the massive increase in the area, it was the perfect time to execute their plan. As they have discussed before, they will be building a travel house inside the Sanctuary, and for that, they traveled all the way to the Royal Capital to buy a lot of furniture. Yet another shopping spree!
"Good morning, Dear Customers. How may I help you?" ［Clerk］
"Good morning, we're here to buy a couple of things." ［Grey］
"Of course! What would you be buying?" ［Clerk］
"Let's see... We'll get some beds, couches, drawers, cabinets, tables, carpets, shoe racks, desk..." ［Grey］
There was no end to Grey's list. Even though he said "a couple of things", such was not the case at all. The once smiling clerk was now faced with trouble as he tried to remember everything Grey said, his eyes swirling in confusion.
"Ah, wait, we also need some closets and some desk lamps." ［Yuna］
"Oh, right. We'll have some of those too, please." ［Grey］
To make it worse, Yuna soon joined in on the listing of furniture and made things more troublesome for the clerk. Though he already took out a notepad and a pen, there was still trouble taking notes as the two were simply too fast.
"Ah, sorry, would you like us to repeat that?" ［Grey］
"Yes, please..." ［Clerk］
Thankfully, Grey and Yuna still had human sides to them and listed things down a second time, now much slower and much more thoughtful. Soon enough, a list was made and as one would expect, it was very long. Too long, in fact.
Not to mention that Grey and Yuna also had some requests to consider, making the list even longer and more complicated. It was such a long order that the clerk needed the help of his coworkers to make things happen. About half of the store's employees were moved to fulfill their request.
Thanks to everyone's help and the two's previous experience, the shopping took much quicker than their previous experience. In just less than an hour, everything was gathered and a long, long receipt was made, large amounts appearing one after another in a long list.
"Would this be all, Dear Customers?" ［Owner］
Of course, the happiest one was the owner of the store. His eyes were literally sparkling as he looked at the two, a large smile on his face as he rubbed his hands against one another. He was clearly delighted.
Well, it was only natural. After all, everything Grey and Yuna bought totaled to several dozen thousand kiels, a profit which would usually take several days to acquire. No money-loving merchant would not be happy after such a rare opportunity.
"No, these would be all. Thank you." ［Grey］
"Then, how should we deliver everything? Since you bought so much, I would be delighted to give you a discount. How about it, Dear Customer?" ［Owner］
"Ah, thanks for the offer. But we'll be fine by ourselves." ［Grey］
"Of courseー Huh?" ［Owner］
Frozen and speechless, the store owner was, unable to grasp what Grey just said. Soon, confusion was added to the mix as everything they bought vanished into thin air with a simple flick of his finger.
Be it the owner, the employees, or the other customers, everyone's eyes opened in shock as everything suddenly disappeared into nothingness. The only ones who had a different reaction were the children who looked excited if anything.
"Thank you for everything, we'll be going now." ［Grey］
"Bye～! We'll visit again next time!" ［Yuna］
"A... Ah... Yes... Thank you for the patronage..." ［Owner］
As quickly as they appeared, Grey and Yuna exited, gone with the wind. The sound of chimes soon rang in the air once again, the glass doors soon closing. Even then, everyone was still in great shock, still frozen in place.
"Umm... Just who are those two...?" ［Owner］
"We also don't know..." ［Clerk］
It was useless. No matter how much they thought about it, they didn't know the identity of the two hooded figures. Well, even if they were hooded, they were also wearing disguises. It was impossible to know who they were.
As for the two who were the cause of everyone's shock, they were oblivious to such reactions. They simply walked along the streets, smiles on their faces as they ate the treats they previously bought, heading to yet another shop.
Well, the shopping spree didn't just stop there. After the furniture store, Grey and Yuna entered other stores. Though be it the appliances stores, hardwares, or even art shops, everyone had the same reactions as the first store, shocked and surprised with Grey and Yuna's actions.
On the way, they also stopped by Zeff's store to buy some coffee, tea leaves, and of course, cocoa beans. Now, they have even more ingredients which they could use for making sweets and desserts. Everyone was happy.
The sun continued to climb the vast blue sky and after a few hours of shopping, Grey and Yuna had bought most of the things they needed. If anything, they were simply going around the market, heading stores and stalls which their eyes fancied.
"Oh, isn't that..." ［Yuna］
"Hm? Did you find something?" ［Grey］
"Ah, no... I just saw a gift store." ［Yuna］
It was not just any gift store, it was the biggest and most reputable one in the Royal Capital, one owned by a noble. It was the gift store which boasts the biggest variety and collection of merchandise from all over the continent. A true gem indeed.
Grey and Yuna have seen the gift store before, but now that they were in front of it, it looked even more fantastic. Even the furniture store from before was much smaller in comparison than the gift store in front of them, only showing how successful it was.
"Hmm... Should we head inside then? I was also thinking of getting everyone some presents. What do you think?" ［Grey］
"That's a great idea! I also wanted to buy some toys for the kids!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha, it's decided then." ［Grey］
There was no time to waste. As soon as Grey and Yuna decided on what to do, they soon entered the store, the doors were opened by the security guards, a warm greeting then following soon after as soon as they took a step inside.
""Welcome to the Leresta's Gift Store""
It truly was on another level. Not just the employees, the store layout and design, the coolness of the air, the brightness of the lights, and the neat arrangements of the shelves and items. It reminded Grey of the malls back on Earth.
Of course, each item was also exceptional. Though there were many luxurious items on display, there were also affordable ones even commoners could buy. It was one of the reasons why the store's reputation was through the roof. Everyone loves it.
Grey and Yuna didn't just dilly-dally. Their heads turning left and right, their feet also moved along. They walked through the isles and looked at the various items on display, finding all sorts of things from pens to vases and even paintings.
"Oh, Grey, wouldn't Guildmaster Gaston like this?" ［Yuna］
"A fountain pen?" ［Grey］
"Un! I've seen him use them a lot of times so I think he'll like it." ［Yuna］
A black barrel and golden nib. It was full of simple yet intricate patterns, a red gem to be found embedded at the top of the barrel. Not just the fountain pen, its ink bottle was also very beautiful as well, exuding an aura of
"And... Don't you think it just looks amazing?! It looks like something you would give to a scholar. It's very beautiful!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Alright, let's buy it then. Let's also buy a couple more with different designs. We could also use this, after all." ［Grey］
"Ah! Then I'll have a black one, too! The one with a violet gem!" ［Yuna］
"In that case... I'll be going with a silver one with a blue gem. That way, we'll be matching, won't we?" ［Grey］
Yuna tried to be discreet about it, but with her strangely specific requirements, it was easy to tell she just wanted one which reminds her of Grey. Of course, Grey wouldn't lose to her either. The idiot couple is once again flirting out in the open.
All in all, Grey and Yuna bought several fountain pens, each with a different design. One was for Gaston, one each for themselves, one for Cedric, one for Fritz, and the others for their other acquaintances who are often in their offices. As for the spares, they would be of use when the time comes.
After selecting a gift for Gaston, they then selected a couple gifts for the other adults they knew. They bought a coffee set for Chiron, a couple boxes of sweets for Rina, a desk clock for Cedric, romance books for Helen, and many more.
"Grey, what color would be good? Yellow or white?" ［Yuna］
"I don't know... But it would most likely be blue, I think..." ［Grey］
"Really? Would Liz like blue?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, I'm sure of it. Your blue eyes are the only thing you share in common, after all. Though knowing Liz... She'd probably like anything we give her..." ［Grey］
"Mmn... That's true..." ［Yuna］
Of course, it wasn't just the adults they were buying presents to. They were also buying stuff for the children. And it was only then that they realized that they are acquainted with so many children. Too many, in fact.
There was just one slight problem... It was that every single one of them are very attached to Grey and Yuna. It was to the point that they'll probably treasure even if they only give them a leaf they found by the roadside. Though it makes them happy, it also makes selecting a present difficult.
Right now, Grey and Yuna are selecting a hairpin they could give to Eliza. Each and every one of the designs were fantastic and beautiful. The only thing that's taking them so long was choosing which design to pick.
"Okay! That's it! Let's just buy them all then! We could just give the other hairpins to Bella, Iris, and Ruru!" ［Yuna］
"Yuna..." ［Grey］
Well, if they are having difficulty choosing a gift, they could just simply buy them all to make sure. It was a very simple and convenient solution. Though... Even then, Grey couldn't help but heave a lengthy sigh.
"Then... For the boys... What should we buy...?" ［Yuna］
"You can leave that to me. I'll make sure to choose the best gifts." ［Grey］
"Yaay～! Thank you, Grey!" ［Yuna］
With the girls' gifts finally chosen, it was now time for the boys, namely, Galvin, Elnart, and Zeke. And being a man himself, it was quite easy for Grey to select a couple of presents for them.
There were toy swords, tops, some figurines of beasts and heroes, and many more. Though it was another world, their preferences remained the same and not long after, Grey was finally done selecting the gifts for the boys.
All in all, due to the luxuriousness of their gifts, their total amounted to a few hundred thousand kiels. Though it was a large sum, they didn't regret anything even a little bit. After all, it was for everyone to be happy. They were both satisfied.
""Thank you for the patronage! Please come back again!""
As warmly as they were welcomed, Grey and Yuna were also seen off just as warmly by the employees. Now, with the gift selection finally finished, there was only one more thing left to do in the Royal Capital.
Due to their circumstances, Grey and Hina have left the capital quite abruptly before and because of it, they completely forgot to say their farewells to everyone. Of course, it included a special someone who surely would have pouted.
Though it would become troublesome if they were found out, with the use of "Gate", everything was much easier and simpler. They could simply drop by and head out, coming and going freely like the wind.
"Then, should we go greet our Little Princess?" ［Grey］
"Un! Let's!" ［Yuna］
...
Scritch Scritch Scritch
The room was quiet, only a couple sounds to be heard. There was the sound of scribbling as a little figure streaked a sheet of paper with shades and colors. Each stroke added beauty to the paper like an intricate piece of abstract artwork.
The little figure was none other than the Little Princess, Natalia. She held a couple crayons in her hands, drawing ever so cheerfully on the piece of paper with a cutely serious expression on her face. The gap was just too big, it was heartwarming.
"Shasha, Nalia, done!" ［Natalia］
"Wow～! Our Princess Natalia sure is amazing! It's very beautiful!" ［Shasha］
"Weally...?" ［Natalia］
"Of course! I'm sure Princess Natalia would become an excellent artist one day! Their Majesties and Their Highnesses would be proud!" ［Shasha］
A warm atmosphere was looming about the room as the Little Princess smiled very brightly, illuminating the room. It was very bright, it was blinding. The maid, Shasha, was very happy to see her smile. It was simply bliss to bask in her cuteness.
Knock Knock Knock
The comfort of the room was only disturbed when a couple knocks resounded from the other side of the door. Shasha was quickly alerted by the knocking as she stood up from her seat and smiled towards the Little Princess.
"Princess Natalia, I'll go get the door. Please stay put, okay?" ［Shasha］
"Um! Nalia behave!" ［Natalia］
"Fufufu! Our Princess really is a good girl!" ［Shahsa］
Smiling very happily, Shasha headed towards the door and opened it without any caution. But such a smile quickly faded as soon as she saw the two hooded figures behind the door. She only felt wariness as her body stiffened.
"Ah! Sorry for scaring youー" ［Grey］
"Waah! Big Bwo! Big Sish!" ［Natalia］
Neither Grey nor Yuna has yet to remove their hoods, when out of the blue, the Little Princess jumped off from the seat and rushed towards them, embracing Grey's legs rightly with her little arm.
The moment the hoods were removed, the maid wariness quickly vanished, heaving a sigh of relief. At the same time, as soon as she saw their faces, the Little Princess' embrace became tighter, burying her face on his clothes.
"Oh my, it seems like our Little Princess is still as energetic as everー Eh?" ［Yuna］
Well, there was a reason why she was burying her face. As soon as Yuna squatted to greet her, she immediately saw the little tears trickling down her adorable face. She was so shocked, she was frozen and speechless, Grey and Shasha too.
What made it worse was that the Little Princess uttered not a single word, only crying and hiccuping as she tightened her embrace in Grey. They didn't need to ask. They knew exactly why she was crying and they were the cause.
"Umm... Little Princess... About leaving without saying goodbye... Big Bro and Big Sis are very sorry, alright? Why don't you let go for a moment so that we can have some snacks and chat?" ［Grey］
Grey asked but only silence followed. The Little Princess only continued embracing his legs, not budging a single inch, acting as if she would lose them the moment she let go of them. The situation was even worse than they thought.
"Princess Natalia～! Why don't we let go of Big Bro for a moment? We promise we won't disappear again without saying goodbye. Here, Big Sis could even hold you if you want." ［Yuna］
Said Yuna as she opened her arms wide, welcoming the Little Princess at any time. There was a little bit of hesitation in her eyes at first, but after a couple seconds, she quickly let go of Grey and embraced Yuna instead, being carried like a little baby.
『Thanks, that really helped.』 ［Grey］
『Fufufu! Anytime!』 ［Yuna］
It was fortunate that Yuna was there. Otherwise, things would have become much more troublesome. With the Little Princess finally settling down, they could finally head inside, and make themselves comfortable, Yuna still carrying the Little Princess.
"Then, Your Highnesses, I'll be preparing some refreshments for everyone. Can you please take care of Princess Natalia." ［Shasha］
"Yeah, sure. Thank you," ［Grey］
"It's my pleasure." ［Shasha］
Bowing her head ever so slightly, Shasha left the room and headed towards the kitchen, leaving Grey and Yuna to take care of the Little Princess. There was a little bit of silence and awkwardness in the air.
"Oh? Did our Little Princess draw this?" ［Yuna］
"Un... Nalia did..." ［Natalia］
"Waah～! Really?! Our Lille Princess is so amazing! This is so beautiful!" ［Yuna］
Well, it didn't take long before the awkwardness was gone, vanishing completely as if it was all but a passing lie. With a simple compliment from Yuna, the face which was once sulking soon beamed into a smile, her cheerfulness returning to her.
"Then, should we draw some too? Big Bro and Big Sis will help you." ［Grey］
"Did you hear that, Little Princess? Would you be so caring to play with us? Big Sis and Big Bro would love to." ［Yuna］
"Um! Big Bwo, Big Sish, play wif Nalia!" ［Natalia］
Warm, happiness, and excitement. All were fully enveloping the room as the Little Princess grabbed a couple crayons and handed them to Grey and Yuna, a bright and innocent smile blooming on her face.
Blue, Green, Red, and so much more. Colors danced around the blank canvases, creating life and beauty with every stroke. Though they were simple doodles, they were all much more valuable than the greatest masterpieces. It was yet another peaceful afternoon.
CHAPTER 209 END