Chirp Chirp Chirp
Sweet melodies filled the air as the morning sun climbed the sky. The wind was cool, dancing ever so freely like ballerinas in a ballroom as the leaves applauded with their rustling. It was a wonderful way to wake up in the morningー except, it's not.
To begin with, there wasn't even a soft bed nor a familiar ceiling to be seen. All there was was a platinum figure darting through the blue sky like a free arrow, two figures sitting atop its back as it flapped its magnificent wings, shining like clear water.
"Mmn～! The wind's really nice, isn't it, Grey?" ［Yuna］
"It is, but you sure are enjoying your time, aren't you?" ［Grey］
"My～ I don't know what you mean～." ［Yuna］
Said Yuna as she clung even tighter to Grey. While it was true that the wind was cold, for someone at the peak of S-rank like her, it is only a cool breeze. She was simply taking advantage of the situation to act clingy towards Grey, snuggling close to him.
"Haah... Really, what am I going to do with you..." ［Grey］
"Hehehe. It's Grey's fault for spoiling me so much everyday, you know? You ought to take responsibility." ［Yuna］
"Yeah, yeah, I know." ［Grey］
Grey couldn't even refute Yuna's words as he knew full well it was the truth. Well, not that he regrets any of the times he did. If he had other choices, he would choose to spoil Yuna again. Or rather, he would spoil her even more.
'Haah... I've really become a doting fool, haven't I?' ［Grey］
Asking himself such a question, Grey subconsciously patted Yuna's head, making the latter smile like a little kitten being purred. Just like that, they continued soaring in the sky, parting the clouds wherever they went.
It has been a few days since Grey's birthday, and to uphold their promise with the King, Grey and Yuna are now heading towards the city of Gilm, the main city of the Beldon Marquisate, one of the largest territories in the kingdom.
In most of Merusia, countries are divided into many regions, spanning dozens of thousands of square kilometers each. Regions are then further divided into smaller provinces, which themselves extend a few thousand square kilometers. Each of these provinces are then finally occupied by a number of settlements.
When a noble is granted a title, they are also granted provinces which will be their territory. The Landevar territory for example once only consisted of two provinces, but after Fritz was ordained the title of "Count", he was granted two more provinces, thus expanding his territory.
Of course, like nobles, the Gentry can also be granted "Fiefs" by their lords. Knights, for example, are granted a village to govern over along with its surrounding lands. In a way, they could also be called "Minor Lords".
The Beldon territory Grey and Yuna are headed to is comprised of seven provinces. Of which, two are coastline provinces, perfect for the sea viewing Grey wanted to surprise Yuna with for quite some time already.
Of course, Yuna still doesn't know about Grey's plan. The surprise would be pointless otherwise. Grey couldn't help but look forward to how Yuna would react. Just thinking of her excited and smiling face was making butterflies flutter in his heart. A little chuckle soon escaped his mouth.
"Hm? Is something wrong Grey? You were chuckling..." ［Yuna］
"Well, I just remembered something funny." ［Grey］
"Ehh～? What is it? What is it?" ［Yuna］
Eyes full of innocence and curiosity and an inquiring look on her face, Yuna excitedly asked Grey about what he was thinking. Her eyes were sparkling so brightly, that if she was wearing an animal-ear headband, she would surely look like a small animal.
Grey couldn't help but ask himself again if she really was the same Yuna who acts like a gentle mother towards the children. The gap between her childish and mature side was simply just that big. It truly was a mystery.
"Haha. Don't worry. It's nothing much." ［Grey］
"Ehh～? But I'm curious... Can't you tell me? Pretty please～?" ［Yuna］
"Well... Maybe later, but for now, I'll be keeping it to myself." ［Grey］
"Boo! Boo! Grey's so mean! Right, Sirius?" ［Yuna］
Yep, there was no denying it. She really is a little child now, puffing her cheeks ever so cutely to show her dissatisfaction and even asking for Sirius' opinion. Unluckily for her, such cute revolts didn't shake Grey's will. Rather, it only made her look cuter.
Yuna asking Grey relentlessly, the flight continued and more clouds were parted. The ground below continued to change and the whistling of the winds became music to their ears, accompanied by the chirping of the birds from time to time.
After several more minutes of flying, the city of Gilm was finally in view, standing out in the horizon over the viridescent meadow. It was even larger than Galderia, proudly showcasing its presence, walls standing majestically.
"Sirius, if you would please." ［Grey］
"As you wish, Master." ［Sirius］
Of course, they couldn't just show up to town whilst riding a dragon. Even if they already informed the estate of their visit, it would still cause quite a lot of panic if Sirius were to suddenly descend from the skies.
With her shapeshifting ability, Sirius quickly shrunk her platinum body, the two pairs of her wings turning into one and her horns disappearing. In just a couple seconds, the majestic High Dragon turned into an equally majestic white pegasus, her beauty still as radiant as the sun above.
Conveniently enough, even when Sirius had such a large shift in her form, Grey and Yuna's comfort wasn't compromised a single bit. It still felt like they were riding on clouds, Sirius' silky mane fluttering in the air.
The closer they closed in on the city, the clearer the views became. And just when they were close enough to the city, they could see a number of knights waving their hands towards the two from the gates, clearly wanting to welcome them.
Clop Clop Clop Clop
Sirius soon descended, her footsteps echoing as her hooves hit the solid ground. All eyes were on her as she folded her wings, letting Grey and Yuna come down one after another. It isn't everyday you see a pegasus, after all.
『Thank you for your hard work, Sirius.』 ［Grey］
『Thank you very much, Sirius! It was a fun ride!』 ［Yuna］
『Fufufu! It was my pleasure, Master, Mistress.』 ［Sirius］
Gentle lights gathered around Sirius' white figure and as if she was all but an illusion, she disappeared the very next moment, leaving only orbs of golden light behind. It was a magnificent and mystical spectacle.
Soon after Sirius came back to Grey and Yuna's shadows, the knights, who were ones waving to them, approached them slowly, their heavy steps echoing as their heavy boots clacked. Of course, what happened next was already expected...
"Greetings, Your Highnesses. We have been waiting for your arrival. It is our greatest pleasure to welcome you to the Beldon Marquisate." ［Leader］
It was a stiflingly formal greeting. After the leader of the knights bowed his head, the other knights followed suit and also bowed with respect. Though Grey and Yuna had gotten used to it, they can't say it was comfortable.
"Please raise your heads, everyone. We're also more than grateful for your warm hospitality, but..." ［Grey］
"I... Is there something not to your liking, Your Highness?" ［Leader］
"Ah, no... It's just... Is everyone here going to escort us?" ［Grey］
Asked Grey as his and Yuna's eyes swam towards the knights behind the leader. There weren't just two or three, but more than a dozen. Not only that, each one was equipped with armor, their trusty weapons by their sides.
Anyone seeing such a large number of knights escorting them would surely think they are important people. Of course, the attention they'll receive would be ungodly. They wanted to avoid such a troublesome situation as much as possible.
"Yes... That's what His Excellency, the Marquess, instructed us to. Is... something the matter with it, Your Highness?" ［Leader］
"Well, we aren't really fond of too much attention, you see. If possible, we'd only like a few knights to escort us." ［Grey］
"Un... It's a little burdensome, after all. The fewer, the better. Ah, and no carriages, please. We'd love to take our time around the city" ［Yuna］
"I see... I understand. I'll make sure to accommodate your request." ［Leader］
Fortunately, the knights were quite understanding. As soon as he heard their worries, the leader headed towards the knights and huddled them up. It was good that he was acting quick, it's just that... What happened next was something neither Grey nor Yuna expected.
As soon as they huddled up, the knights quickly started playing rock-paper-scissors against one another, and like children, some despaired as soon as they lost. It wasn't long before one knight one, a large smile beaming on his face,
What were they competing against, one might ask? It was simple. They just wanted to get the chance to escort the fabled Heroes of Alfrione. Everyone was very envious of the young knight who won the competition.
"Your Highnesses, this is Clyde. He may be young, but his abilities are excellent, I'm sure he'll be of great assistance to you." ［Leader］
"It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Your Highnesses. Please don't hesitate to ask if you need something." ［Clyde］
"A-Ah... Yes... We'll be in your care, too." ［Grey］
Sparkly. Too sparkly. Such was the eyes of the young knight as he looked at Grey and Yuna. Though the two were happy that some people are looking up to them, it could be a little burdensome sometimes. The expectations were too much.
"Then, would it be fine if I dismiss the knights now, Your Highness?" ［Leader］
"Yes. Everything's more than enough. Thank you." ［Grey］
"Everyone, continue the good work!" ［Yuna］
Just a couple statements from Grey and Yuna, and the knights which once looked dejected quickly sprang back up to life. It was as if their energies were boosted, eyes sparkling as they looked at the two with eyes full of admiration.
It wasn't lomb before the knights were finally dismissed after bowing their heads once again before scattering throughout the city walls and heading back to their stations. Only three figures remained, one of them with eyes still sparkling brightly.
"Then, shall we head to the mansion now, Sir Clyde?" ［Grey］
"Yes! Please leave everything to me, Your Highnesses!" ［Clyde］
Excited as one can be, Clyde straightened his back and proudly reassured Grey and Yuna with his words. Soon enough, he then led the two through the gates and inside the city, a wonderful and lively scenery greeting them.
It was just like the first time they headed inside Galderia. The streets, the people, the establishments, and every sidewalk were all busy and bustling as the people went about their daily lives.
Though not as much as the capital, the buildings by the entrance were quite large and imposing. The streets were much wider than the ones in Galderia and stalls were much more common, popping out here and there as they walked.
Another thing to note was the abundance of people in coats and school uniforms. No matter where Grey and Yuna looked, they could see them everywhere. Even in the Royal Capital, such was not the case.
"What do you of Gilm, Your Highnesses? Is it to your liking?" ［Clyde］
"It's a little different from Galderia and it's much busier, but I don't think it's a bad thing. Rather, I like how lively it is." ［Grey］
"Un. Me too... Especially the stalls around here. There sure are a lot of them, aren't there?" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. It's all because of His Excellency's policies and hard work. He prioritized the employment and education of the people. It's also the reason why Gilm became this wealthy as a city." ［Clyde］
The young knight said with a sense of pride burning in his eyes, looking at the streets with a smile on his face. Grey and Yuna didn't even need to ask. It was obvious that the Marquess was quite loved by the people as a lord.
It was the total opposite of Grey's previous viewpoint of nobles. Though he often read a lot of vile and scheming nobles from fictional works back on Earth, it wasn't quite the same in reality as proven by the people he knows. The Kingdom of Alfrione really was a wonderful place.
"Oh, what are those? Those stick-like thingies..." ［Yuna］
Asked Yuna as she pointed to one of the stalls. In there, a number of items displayed, ranging from crafts, toys, sweets, and treats. It was a little souvenir shop one would usually see by the city entrances.
What Yuna pointed at was a little confection coming in many different colors. They were candies made from a variety of fruits, mixed with honey and milk. Just a single glance and one could tell it was something children enjoyed.
"Oh, those are Rostillas. They're one of the specialty candies in Gilm. Would you like to try some, Your Highnesses." ［Clyde］
"Un... I'm a little curious..." ［Yuna］
"Alright. Your wish is my command." ［Clyde］
Not wasting any more time, Clyde quickly went ahead and headed towards the stall. To Grey and Yuna's surprise, the young knight was acting friendly to the stall owner. It was obvious that the two were close acquaintances.
It wasn't long before Clyde returned to the two, a bag of candies in his hands. And it wasn't just Rostillas, he also bought a variety of sweets and treats with him. All of which looked very tempting to the eyes.
"Your Highnesses, if you would please." ［Clyde］
"Thank you." ［Grey］
"Thank you very much." ［Yuna］
There was no time to hesitate. As soon as they were given some candies, Grey and Yuna quickly accepted and bit onto them, sweet and fruity flavors exploding in their mouths along with a gentle touch of milkiness.
Though there are a lot of differences in cuisines between Earth and Merusia, the candies were all top-tier. Grey and Yuna couldn't help but enjoy themselves as they continued to nibble on the Rostillas, delightful expressions on their faces.
"Mmn～! These are super good!" ［Yuna］
"You're right. I especially like the creamy aftertaste." ［Grey］
"Un! It's creamy and tasty!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha! I'm glad you liked it, Your Highnesses." ［Clyde］
There it was again. Clyde's eyes once again sparkled with pride as he saw Grey and Yuna enjoy the Rostillas. He may not know how to make them, but having grown up in Gilm, he couldn't help but smile when someone praises their specialties.
It wasn't just the Rostillas. The other candies Clyde bought were also quite a delight, bringing a lot of flavors inside their mouths, exploding like fireworks. If it weren't for the fact that their bodies were inhumane, God knows how many cavities they might already have.
"Ah, sorry, Sir Clyde, we got a little too carried away there. How much were all of these again?" ［Grey］
"A-Ah, please don't worry about the cost, Your Highness. Just seeing you enjoy Gilm's prided treats is more than enough." ［Clyde］
"I appreciate the thought, I really do, but... it feels bad not giving you anything in return. I feel a little guilty..." ［Grey］
"Un... Is there at least anything we can do to repay the favor?" ［Yuna］
Says the two who mostly don't ask very much in return either. Though they were comfortable in the giving end, being on the receiving end only made their conscience feel guilty. They really were an odd pair.
"Umm... Then, if it isn't too much to ask... I have one request..." ［Clyde］
"Sure, what is it?" ［Grey］
"About your battle in the Royal Capital, can you tell me more about it?! I've already heard it a lot of times from stories, but I want to hear it directly from Their Highnesses' mouths! That's my only wish!" ［Clyde］
A complete 180. The reserved Clyde was no more, only an excited fan with eyes sparkling brightly just like before. Grey and Yuna had always wondered where his excitement went, but it seems like he was just holding himself back. It took them both by surprise, honestly.
"Haah... If that's all you want, then sure. But don't get disappointed when you really hear what happened, alright?" ［Grey］
"Un... A lot of the stories were exaggerated, after all... It might be a little different from what you've heard." ［Yuna］
"Of course! I've already prepared myself. Rest assured, Your Highnesses!" ［Clyde］
Grey and Yuna tried to dissuade the young knight, but it was useless. Rather than giving up, he only became more determined and excited. It was fortunate that the crowd was busy and noisy, otherwise, they would have already been overheard with how loud Clyde was.
Their steps continuing to head towards the mansion, Grey and Yuna told Clyde about their adventures in the Royal Capital including the battle during the Founding Festival and the Raid long before it, the latter listening attentively.
Several minutes passed and they were finally in front of the Beldon Mansion. It was as luxurious as one would expect from a Marquessal household, even bigger than the Aldridge and Landevar mansions. The true definition of grandiosity.
"We have arrived at the mansion, Your Highnesses. I hope you enjoyed our walk throughout the city," ［Clyde］
"Yes, we enjoyed it very much, Sir Clyde. Thank you." ［Grey］
"Until next time. Continue the good work～!" ［Yuna］
"It was my greatest pleasure, Your Highnesses." ［Clyde］
One more bow and Clyde expressed his gratitude, soon going away to resume his duties. Grey and Yuna were once again left alone together, standing in front of two massive gates, a large mansion behind it.
"It really is big, isn't it..." ［Yuna］
"Haha... You can say that again..." ［Grey］
The more they looked at the mansion, the more grandiose and beautiful it became. It wasn't simply luxurious, it was also elegant and sophisticated, not a single wasteful element, only showing off the pride and dignity of the estate with confidence.
Well, even if they were not being wasteful, a mansion was still a mansion. There was no denying how grand it was. Seeing it, Grey was reminded of the many mansions he saw on the internet back in the days. It was even more spectacular than them. They really were something.
"Then, Yuna... Should we also buy a mansion for ourselves?" ［Grey］
"A mansion, hmm... That's a little... It's somewhat burdensome, after all, isn't it? I'll have to pass on that one, please. I already like our home as it is." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha." ［Grey］
A soft chuckle and a light atmosphere, such was what enveloped the two as they continued to admire the mansion from afar. It wasn't long before the guards started approaching them, looking stern yet welcoming.
"We've been expecting you, Your Highnesses. His Excellency has been waiting for you. Welcome to the Beldon Manor."
Clang Clang Creakkkk
Following the guard's words, heavy metallic sounds echoed in the air as the gates were opened, unveiling the gem hidden within. The sound of footsteps soon followed as Grey and Yuna headed inside, the guards following behind them.
The inside was even more marvelous the moment they laid their eyes upon it. There was a garden on both sides, hedges high as two meters with roses blooming all over the place. And in front was a white mansion made of limestone and marble, rooves colored blue and black.
And as one would expect, the reception was quite overwhelming. Standing on both sides were a line of knights and servants, bowing their heads in silence, showing their respects. It was as if they were welcoming members of the Royal Family.
『Ah... Should we have dressed a little better? I feels so out out of place.』 ［Grey］
『Fufufu! Then shall we get our formal attires?』 ［Yuna］
『Hahaha. Maybe next time.』 ［Grey］
Chuckling and giggling to themselves, Grey and Yuna continued to head towards the mansion. The path was even longer than it seems, taking them a solid minute to traverse the whole distance.
As soon as they arrived, two figures greeted them by the entrance of the mansion, dressed more extravagantly and appropriately than the others. It was not just their attires, their look and figure were gorgeous as well, like sculptures carved out from the highest-quality marble.
One of them was a familiar face they have once met back on the afterparty. His hair was white like newly woven silk and eyes red as the roses in the garden, the aura of dignity and nobility exuding from him as he stood proudly.
"A wonderful morning, Your Highnesses. It's our greatest pleasure to serve the most distinguished guests of Alfrione. I welcome you to the Belton Estate." ［Abraham］
CHAPTER 215 END