Light shone on the world, repelling the darkness back to the depths of the abyss and waking the sleeping forests. The rivers sparkled, the meadows were filled with colors, and the mountain breathed in a breath of fresh air.
The flowers bloomed proudly, red, white, and yellow, their petals opening freely like the surging waves in the ocean, and morning dew dropped from leaf to leaf, sparkling brightly as it reflected the fresh and golden sunlight.
Sunlight seeped through the windows, a lone figure graced by its warmth. His eyes were slightly closed, sleeping peacefully, embraced by the comfort and softness of the bed. It was as if there was not a single problem in the world.
"Grey～! Wake... Up～!" ［Yuna］
But such peace was quickly broken as another familiar face entered the room, an apron wrapping around her body and a ladle by her right hand. Such a wonderful sight was what greeted Grey as soon as he opened his eyes.
"Hmg... Yuna, what's with the ruckus so early in the morning...?" ［Grey］
"Sorry, was I too rough?" ［Yuna］
"No... Nor really... Just... Why the rush?" ［Grey］
"Save the questions for later! For now, let's get out of bed, okay?" ［Yuna］
Just like a mother waking up her child for school, Yuna was unusually strict. Though Grey doesn't understand what's going on, he simply followed and got out of bed, then changing clothes as he let out a belated yawn.
"Breakfast's ready. Come down quickly, okay?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah... Thanks..." ［Grey］
Seeing Grey finally up and about, a smile then formed on Yuna's face before she turned around and headed downstairs. She was much more excited than usual, making Grey wonder if something good recently happened.
It wasn't long before Grey followed her downstairs. As soon as he switched to a more comfortable attire, he then got out of the bedroom and headed downstairs too. What greeted him as soon as he did was an appetizing aroma drifting from the kitchen.
There wasn't just one or two, but a plethora of tasty dishes were displayed atop the dinner table. Though it was normal for them to have a lot on the table, today, there was even more than usual. It was as if they were serving food at a banquet.
"Hm? What's with the dishes? Is there something going on?" ［Grey］
"Eh? What do you mean by that, silly? It's a special occasion! Of course, we have to celebrate extravagantly!" ［Yuna］
"Oh? And that special occasion is...?" ［Grey］
"Eh?" ［Yuna］
"Huh?" ［Grey］
Grey looked at Yuna's eyes and the latter looked back at him. Silence swallowed the kitchen whole as the winds of awkwardness blew through the two of them. Traces of disbelief were painted all over Yuna's eyes and face.
Of course Yuna would be shocked. After all, with Grey's ability, "Divine Mind", he could easily remember everything and anything he put his mind to. It's just that it's too burdensome remembering everything all the time that he chooses not to.
"Ah... It's my birthday..." ［Grey］
Well, it didn't take long before Grey finally realized what day it was. As soon as his thoughts leaked out, Yuna simply nodded in an adorable manner, pouting a little as she looked at Grey, disappointment brewing in her heart.
"Mou... How could you forget your own birthday... It only comes once a year. You should at least try to remember. It's a special day, you know?" ［Yuna］
Yuna continued pouting as she glared at Grey with puffed cheeks. She put so much effort into all the preparations, after all. To think that the person himself would actually forget his own birthday. It was only understandable.
"Well, it's because every single day with Yuna is a special one. And compared to once a year, it's something I can only experience once in a lifetime. How could I remember my birthday when my mind is always preoccupied with you?" ［Grey］
It was cheesy as hell, but it was also super effective. As he leaned in and whispered such words to her ears, her pouting face quickly vanished, replaced only by a rosy tint as her face turned beet red, feeling very feverish and heart thumping wildly.
She was too embarrassed she couldn't utter a single word, only able to pound Grey's shoulder and back lightly. Now, she is puffing her cheeks even more, not wanting to show her face to her beloved. She just wants to hide and curl into a ball.
"Mou! I'm supposed to be the one to make your heart race, not the other way around! Grey, you dummy!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. But my heart is already racing plenty, you know?" ［Grey］
"Uuu...! Stop teasing me!" ［Yuna］
And with another statement, Yuna's face turned even much redder and pounded much harder. Meanwhile, Grey was only chuckling to himself, letting his adorable girlfriend do whatever she wanted.
"Then, I suppose we'll be having breakfast now, am I right?" ［Grey］
"Un. But don't think this is over yet! I'll make sure to make your heart race lots and lots of time today!" ［Yuna］
"Oh, then I suppose that's something to look forward to." ［Grey］
"Un! Please look forward to it!" ［Yuna］
A confident declaration rang throughout the house as Yuna puffed her chest proudly, and a little while after, they then headed to the dining table and had a lovely breakfast together, the appetizing aroma inviting them over.
It was so inviting in fact that the table seemed like it was sparkling, arousing their appetites all the while. Even Yuna, who was the one who made breakfast, was super excited to have a taste of the dishes she cooked.
"Oh! Did you add something to this curry? Something feels different." ［Grey］
"Un! I added some lemon and honey. I also mixed a few stocks with atsuete to change the meaty flavors. Do you like it?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah. I love it. Though... I think it's too sweet...?" ［Grey］
"Hehehe! I might have gotten carried away and put too much honey." ［Yuna］
Yuna giggled playfully whilst covering her mouth with her spoon. Meanwhile, Grey continued eating the curry Yuna made. Though it may be too sweet, it was still very delicious, one kids and sweet tooths would surely love.
And as one would expect with someone of Yuna's caliber, all the other dishes served had an exquisite taste to them, bringing heavenly delight to those who chanced to taste it. It was one which made both Grey's heart and stomach full.
With breakfast finished, what followed after was bathing and preparing for the day. It has been quite some time since Yuna planned what would be happening and it was finally time to execute it. It was a birthday date!
Of course, as it was a birthday date, they needed to be dressed properly. The clothes Yuna bought yesterday could be finally put to use. She was super excited to see how Grey would look in such clothing. She was really looking forward to it, seeing her man in a different outfit.
"Yuna, what do you think? Does it suit me?" ［Grey］
It wasn't long before Grey finished changing clothes, and the result was even more intense than expected. Even though she was the one who bought them, she could only remain frozen as she basked in the radiance of the man before her.
White, long-sleeved polo underneath, a neck tie tucked in a suit vest, an unbuttoned coat showing off the contour of his lean body, stylish slacks paired with a similarly stylish belt, and black leather shoes. Topping it off with his neatly-styled hair, he has become the embodiment of male beauty.
"Is something wrong, Yuna?" ［Grey］
"N... No... It's just that Grey looks very cool and handsome..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. That goes the same for you too, my dear Yuna. The more I look at you, the more beautiful you become... You look stunning, my love." ［Grey］
Grey said as he bowed and kissed the back of Yuna's hand like a gentleman. An act which only served to make the young lady's heart race as if there was no tomorrow. Grey just couldn't help himself but adore his beloved.
After all, Yuna was also just as gorgeous with her sleeveless dress accentuating her perfect curves and showing off her pearly white shoulders. Even though it was on the simpler side and she didn't put much makeup, she was still extremely dazzling, even more so than the sun above.
Of course, it wasn't just all that. Hanging around both if their necks were palladium necklaces with a deep green gem embedded in it. It was the matching necklaces Grey once made with "Seeds of Vitality" they got from the Labyrinth of Death.
With such a presentation, it was needless to say that Grey's heart was also pumping madly at the moment. He was so happy he couldn't tell if he was dreaming or not. All he could do was smile brightly as he looked at Yuna lovingly.
It was a moment of bliss only disturbed as a couple tugs came to Grey's coat. It was, of course, none other than Yuna who was, for some reason, acting meekly at the moment, her face beet red as one can be, looking down to the ground rather than meeting Grey's eyes.
"Grey... Don't look at other girls, okay? And don't smile at them. You'll surely make them fall for you if you do." ［Yuna］
"I don't think that it would thoughー" ［Grey］
"No! It will! You need to promise me!" ［Yuna］
It was one of the rare times Yuna was acting unusually possessive, pouting ever so cutely as she finally looked Grey in the eyes. And surely enough, Yuna delivered to her promise. The date hasn't even started yet she already made Grey's heart race.
"Hahaha. Of course, of course... My eyes and lips are only for you. Though... I think you already know that." ［Grey］
A teasing smile. Such was how Grey ended his statement as he drew Yuna close to him. Such an act only served to make Yuna's face feel feverish, overheating from too much stimulation. Grey's different look was just too much.
"T-Then! Shall we get going now, Grey? I have lots of things to show you!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha, sure... I'll be in your care, Milady." ［Grey］
"U-Un! Leave it to me!" ［Yuna］
A creak resounded in the air and the door was opened. Two art-like figures came out of the house, greeting the lovely morning as they smiled at one another. Each step they took, giggles and laughter resounded in the air as they chatted merrily.
Few minutes later and they were finally in the denser areas of the city. The people's reactions was just one would expect. Their eyes were captured by Grey and Yuna as they passed by, blinded by their dazzling beauty whilst their mouths hung open.
"Then, where are we heading to?" ［Grey］
"Fufufu! That's a surprise!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. I'm looking forward to it then." ［Grey］
Thankfully, neither Grey nor Yuna minded the stares. Other than the fact that they were currently in their own world, they have grown accustomed to such treatments. They wouldn't let such small things ruin their lovely date.
A couple hundred more steps and they have finally arrived at their first destination. It was a large establishment Grey and Yuna had been to many times. It was, of course, the theater. A staple in dates.
As usual, there was a pretty long line towards the ticket booth. Thankfully, Yuna didn't come without any preparations. She confidently headed towards the booth, leaning towards the ticket seller with an indifferent yet soft expression.
"Excuse me, I've reserved a private chamber under the name of 'Yuna'. Would you be so kind as to guide us?" ［Yuna］
"Of course. We've been waiting for you, Your Highnesses. This way please."
Soft and courteous. Such was the way the employee greeted Grey and Yuna, soon guiding them to their private chamber as all eyes looked at them. Silence swallowed the place whole, only sparkling eyes to be seen.
A few minutes of walking and they finally arrived at the topmost and most valuable chamber in the theater. It was a very spacious room, complete with furniture and a table filled with a handful of snacks. A chamber which just screamed luxury.
"I hope you enjoy your time. I will be taking my leave. If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ring the bell."
"Ah, yes. Thank you." ［Yuna］
"It was my pleasure, Your Highnesses."
Courteous as ever, the employee headed out of the chamber and left Grey and Yuna to their own devices. Footsteps echoed in the chamber as Grey and Yuna explored the room, satisfying their own curiosity as their heads turned left and right.
Of course, it wasn't just the chamber. The view, the seats, the lighting, and the sound insulation. Everything in the chamber was of high quality. A happy expression was painted on Yuna as she sat on the soft couch, soon patting it with her hands.
"Grey, here, let's sit together." ［Yuna］
"Yeah, sure..." ［Grey］
Still unable to satisfy curiosity, Grey looked around the room a little more before he finally sat down beside Yuna. After all, what kind of man would be able to reject such an invitation from their lovely girlfriend. Not to mention how sparkly her eyes were.
"Here, Grey, lie down." ［Yuna］
Though... Grey didn't expect what came after he sat down. It wasn't just a normal invitation. It was an invitation to a lap pillow. Yuna's eyes were sparkling even brighter, full of excitement and expectations.
"Umm... Yuna, I'd really love to, but... How am I supposed to watch the play if I lie down on your lap?" ［Grey］
"Don't worry! We'll figure out something, somehow!" ［Yuna］
"Really, you... You really are silly sometimes." ［Grey］
"Hehehe!" ［Yuna］
Grey and Yuna flirting, the play soon started several minutes after. The lights dimmed and the curtains were lifted, sound playing from the background as the props moved around swiftly and beautifully.
There was only silence as the play commenced, only words of surprise, excitement, and surprise echoed throughout the theater, drifting slowly so as to not disturb the peace. Everyone's eyes were glued on the play, watching the actors relive the various acts in the story.
"Eh? Grey...?" ［Yuna］
"Hm? Do you not like it?" ［Grey］
"No... Not at all..." ［Yuna］
Well, almost everyone... A certain figure from the private chambers crawled his hands towards Yuna, interlocking them tightly and catching the fair lady by surprise. Rather than the play, Yuna's mind was now drifting towards Grey.
The play continued and the acts came one after another. The actors switched, the props moved around, and the curtains were opened and closed. Soon, it was time for the final act to finish. The story has finally reached its conclusion.
Clap Clap Clap
Cheers and applause echoed as the final curtains came down. The audience were all on standing ovation as soon as the actors bowed their heads. Everyone was happy, some crying tears of joy.
"That was a good show, wasn't it?" ［Grey］
"Un! It was super interesting! I would like to see it again someday!" ［Yuna］
"Alright. Let's have another date when the time's right." ［Grey］
"Un! Let's!" ［Yuna］
Of course, Grey and Yuna very much enjoyed the play. They were both smiling from ear to ear as they talked about which parts they liked the most. They were like little children talking about their favorite idols, laughing and chatting merrily.
A few minutes after and the two were finally out in the open again, the gentle sunlight greeting them gracefully. Though there were many eyes on them, they didn't mind them too much and just continued walking side by side.
"Then, let's head to our next destination!" ［Yuna］
Like a ball of pure energy, Yuna was still full of excitement and enthusiasm. She grabbed Grey by the hand and with a smile on her face, led him a couple hundred meters away, chattering sweetly like a small animal.
"Wait, isn't this..." ［Grey］
The next destination was something Grey didn't expect. Though it looked a little different and much more primitive, the aesthetics were quite similar to the ones he had seen back on Earth. Grey was frozen and dumbfounded as he continued staring at the establishment before him.
"Un! It's a game center! You had something like this back in your world, right? What do you think?!" ［Yuna］
"I... I'm a little surprised to be honest, but... How did you find this place? I didn't know this place existed in Galderia." ［Grey］
"That's only natural! It was just recently finished, after all! If it wasn't for Tilda recommending it to me, I wouldn't have known either." ［Yuna］
Yuna was correct. The place was established by a merchant who happened to enjoy a lot of games and sports in their travels. They really wanted to play such games again and decided to build the game center. The very first in Galderia.
It has been in the planning for a couple of years already, and it was all due to the merchant's efforts that such a wonderful establishment was made. Though it has only been a few days since the opening, quite a lot of people are already gathering.
"Then, what are we waiting for?! Let's play already!" ［Yuna］
After paying the entrance fee, Grey and Yuna soon stepped foot inside the place. As soon as they did, the cool wind greeted them, breezing through their faces and bodies. There was also a lot of chattering, just showing how lively the place really was.
Bowling, darts, shooting ranges, dummies, ball games, and a lot more. There was a large collection of games to be seen and a lot of choices to be played. It looked like a place a lot of teenagers would hang out on their weekends and free days.
"So, which game should we play first?" ［Yuna］
"Oh, I'm the one picking?" ［Grey］
"Of course! It's your birthday, after all!" ［Yuna］
She was just too precious. Grey could only wallow in happiness as he enjoyed the angelic smiling place of his girlfriend. He was so happy, he wouldn't have regrets even if he were to die at that moment.
"Then... I'd love to try some bowling." ［Grey］
"Okay! Bowling it is!" ［Yuna］
An excited Yuna, a happy Grey, and fifteen pins standing in front of them. Though the bowling ball and pins looked a little different, the rules were pretty much the same, it was to knock out as many pins as possible.
"Okay! I'll be going fiー" ［Yuna］
Or so she says, but she hasn't even started yet she already stopped midway. She then started pondering all the while closing her eyes, a beaming smile soon showing as an idea popped into her mind, looking at Grey with glimmering eyes.
"Grey, isn't it a little boring just playing normally? I mean... It would just become repetitive, wouldn't it?" ［Yuna］
"Oh, is my lovely girlfriend suggesting a bet?" ［Grey］
"Un!" ［Yuna］
A bright smile, one which easily captured the hearts of many. Be it men or women, they could only look at her with mesmerized gazes. She was just so adorable that people couldn't help but admire her. The men were especially jealous of Grey.
Of course, the one who was the most affected was Grey. Though they were talking about betting, Grey didn't really care about it. Other than the fact that it would make things more interesting, it would also make Yuna happy. He was all for it.
"So... What do you want the bet to be?" ［Grey］
"Umm... How about this? If you win, you'll get a kiss from me!" ［Yuna］
"And if you win?" ［Grey］
"I'll get to kiss Grey!" ［Yuna］
Dumbfounded, that was how Grey was as he picked up a bowling ball. He then looked at Yuna once again, but all he could see was her enthusiastic expression. It wasn't long before he let out a light chuckle along with a hearty smile.
"Hahaha. Aren't those just the same?" ［Grey］
"Mou... Stop laughing! Just tell me if you don't like it!" ［Yuna］
"No, not at all. Rather, I think it's too much of a luxury for me. I feel like I'm being spoiled rotten." ［Grey］
Grey laughed and Yuna smiled, a warm atmosphere looming over them. Not long after, the two then grabbed their bowling balls and readied themselves for the game which was about to commence, both determined for such a silly reason.
"Yuna, you better not be a sore loser later, alright? I won't be showing mercy just because you're my girlfriend." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! Look who's talking. Say that once you beat me." ［Yuna］
"Oh, I will, I will." ［Grey］
There was no tension in the air, only giggles and laughter as the balls rolled around the smooth floors and knocking the pins over. Numbers rose as points were scored and the winner and loser were quickly decided.
It didn't just end with bowling. After a couple matches, they then tried out darts, punching machines, and a lot more. The place may be new, but a lot of memories were already made. But it was just the start. The date had just begun.
CHAPTER 213 END