A vast view of blue, expanding as far as the eyes can see. Patches of white and gray littered from time to time as rock formations and foams appeared here and there. Only the seagulls' cawks and the waves' splashes could be heard echoing in the cold sea breeze.
Winds burst forth and a platinum figure darted throughout the sky. The piercing winds were nothing to her beautiful yet tough scales, just like diamonds shining under the moonlight. The only things which glimmered brighter were her eyes and the sun above.
Riding on such magnificent creatures, two people sat idly. One of them, turning her pretty little head left and right as she scanned through the water's surface, soon frowning as she couldn't find anything interesting.
"Grey... I can't find anything here... There's only water... In the first place, what am I even searching for?" ［Yuna］
"You sure? Maybe you're just not looking hard enough," ［Grey］
"Mou... You're teasing me again, aren't you?" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. I'm not, I'm not." ［Grey］
A soft chuckle echoed in the air and the young lady continued to pout. Yet even when he was chuckling, there was only curiosity to be seen inside Grey's eyes. Curiosity he just couldn't take his mind off as he once again looked at the sea.
After helping out all the fishermen, Grey and Yuna are now off to god know where, flying on Sirius' back. Grey suggested they go on an adventure, but Yuna was still in the dark about what he was talking about, confused as one can be.
Well, it was only natural. Grey himself was also unsure about the silhouette he saw, but after seeing Yuna's reactions, he finally confirmed something. And as such, they are now heading further west in search of an answer.
"Alright, Sirius, I think it should be fine to land here." ［Grey］
"Understood, Master." ［Sirius］
At Grey's behest, Sirius slowly but surely cut down her speed and at the same time, changed her angle, stooping like a peregrine falcon catching its prey. There was just one problem... It was that they were stooping down straight towards the water
"H-Hey, Grey! Stop it! This is not funny! We're going to crash!" ［Yuna］
Her scream booming in the air, Yuna closed her eyes and braced herself for what's about to come. Though it wouldn't hurt her, getting seawater on her eyes would really sting. It was something she wanted to avoid at all costs.
But a few seconds passed yet no sounds of splashes could be heard. In fact, there was no sound of waves nor water at all. Rather, there was only the rustling of leaves and rolling sounds of sand scattered in the air.
"Hmm? What just... Hap... pened..." ［Yuna］
The scenery of blue was now gone, only greens, grays, and browns filling the verdant landscape. The sea was no more, only mountains and forests laying in front of them as they slowly descended from the sky.
At such a sight, Yuna could only remain frozen and speechless, her mind still unable to get a grasp of what just happened. She only snapped back to reality the moment she heard a light chuckling from behind. It was from Grey.
"G-Gr-Grey! An island! There's an island!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. I know, I know. But... Aren't you a little too excited?" ［Grey］
"W-Well, I mean! An island just appeared out of nowhere! Everyone would be surprised! I mean, look! Just look! It's so beautiful!" ［Yuna］
Admiration, confusion, and excitement. Three emotions swirled inside Yuna's heart as she made some weird yet cute poses, trying to express herself. She just couldn't find the right words to describe what she was feeling.
It was just like Grey had expected. After all, it really was a strange islandー or rather, it was a strange archipelago. It may be small, but an archipelago is an archipelago nonetheless, one consisting of a couple sizable islands.
Strangely enough, the archipelago itself was coated in both barrier and illusion magic which prevents people seeing through the other side, all their eyes could perceive was a thick mist looming over the deep waters, currents preventing ships from getting in.
Not only that, it also wasn't located in any maps he saw nor had he heard people talk about it. It was like a hidden sanctuary isolated from the whole world. One veiled in such high level magic, even Sirius and Arcturus, who were specialized in illusion and barrier magic, respectively, could only barely sense it.
If it wasn't for Grey's eyes, they would have totally missed it. Whoever caused such magic on such a large area was surely an unparalleled genius. They may be a single individual or a group, but they are all very skilled nonetheless.
Tap Tap Tap
Sirius soon descended, landing gently on the solid ground. Grey and Yuna followed suit and also hopped down her back, standing on the ground once again after a few hours. It has only been a short time, but they missed it already.
"Thank you, Sirius. Can you head back to the others for us? Oh, and please tell Missus Vilma we'll be returning late." ［Grey］
"Understood, Master." ［Sirius］
Bursts of winds forth once more and a platinum figure soon streaked across the sky like a mystical shooting star. The clouds parted and the winds boomed. Only a couple moments later, Sirius could be seen no more.
The wind blew, only two figures remained by the island. They looked towards the island once again, only to be greeted by such a wonderful sight. Yuna's eyes were especially glued to the scenery, her heart pumping with excitement.
"Waah～! So beautiful!" ［Yuna］
Truth. Such was the only thing in Yuna's few words. Though she had seen a lot of forests before, the one before her was undoubtedly the most unique one. It was very open, light seeping through the canopies, illuminating the different shades of green.
The diversity was no joke either. Even just in their vicinity, they could already see hundreds, if not thousands of plants. Many of which Grey and Yuna haven't seen before. It was a treasure trove of herbs and fruits. A green paradise.
"Grey, is this where we'll be having our adventure?!" ［Yuna］
Of course, with herbs and plants involved, Yuna's alchemist blood pumped hot and quick, excitement beaming on her face. Her eyes were sparkling brightly, ready to collect everything she could get her hands on.
"That's right, but don't get overboard, okay? We don't want to clear out this whole forest just because of our excitement, now do we?" ［Grey］
"Geez! Just what do you think of me? I'm not like that, you know?" ［Yuna］
"You say that, but... I know those eyes of yours. The moment I take my eyes off you, I'm sure you'll disappear to collect some herbs before I know it." ［Grey］
"Uuu... That's..." ［Yuna］
Yuna couldn't refute Grey's words. After all, he was totally correct. Even now, Yuna is barely holding herself back from going wild and going on a collecting rampage. There were just too many herbs to see and pick.
Well, it's not like Grey couldn't understand her feelings. If they were on a mine with a ton of precious ores, he probably would have reacted the same. He was also quite passionate with his smithing, after all.
"Haah... Don't worry, we'll go collecting as much as we can once we finish exploring. We'll get as much as you want." ［Grey］
"Yaay～! You're the best, Grey!" ［Yuna］
Well, in the end, Grey couldn't really win against Yuan's pleas. Even if he were to act tough and all, he still wants to spoil her rotten. He was a doting father, older brother, and boyfriend all in one package. A troublesome combination.
"Still... I didn't think there would be such a beautiful uninhabited island here. We could use this as our base!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. That's a good idea, but... It's not uninhabited though." ［Grey］
"Eh?" ［Yuna］
A short and sweet reply came out of Yuna's mouth as she looked Grey in the eyes. She was confused, only able to tilt her head slightly as she gazed at Grey's gently smiling face, enjoying the former's adorably puzzled expression.
Yuna couldn't see it since she closed her eyes while they descended, but Grey could clearly count a number of settlements scattered across the islands. Their civilization level may not be like the ones in the continent mainland, but it was a functioning society no less.
It reminded Grey of the tribal settlements he saw a lot in textbooks and movies. Some were quite sizable too, even larger than the villages back on the mainland. It really was a picture perfect example of an isolated tribe.
"Uuu... So there's people here, huh... That means we won't be able to get the herbs without their permission." ［Yuna］
"Well, we could always just ask them. The problem is whether they would be friendly or hostile to us. It's a gamble." ［Grey］
"Uuu... That's true..." ［Yuna］
They were still in Alfrione's territory for sure, but with a civilization as isolated as the one they were in, there was no telling whether the inhabitants would have the same values and cultures. It was a very unlikely thing.
Well, Grey and Yuna could simply just subdue them if things get sour, but that would be only their last resort. They still preferred to do things peacefully, not wanting to stir the peace and tranquility amongst the inhabitants.
"Grey... If we don't get permission from them... Should we just steal the herbs and run away?" ［Yuna］
"Huh?" ［Grey］
"I mean, I have 'Nihility', don't I? We could just conceal ourselves and they'll never know! This is a forest, after all. I'm sure they won't notice if a few thousand herbs go missing! I'm sure of it!" ［Yuna］
And there it was. An absurd and dangerous idea had popped up inside Yuna's head, one so absurd, Grey could only stay speechless. Yuna may be a kind girl, but when alchemy was involved, she sure does think of some silly ideas. It was a little worrying.
Also, a few thousand herds was simply just too much. The natives would surely notice that so many herbs and plants went missing overnight. The alchemist inside Yuna really was one who doesn't know moderation. Yuna the hoarder is back.
"Really, you... Haah... Why don't we just explore the place for now? We'll think about it when the time comes, alright?" ［Grey］
"Mmn... Okay! That's fine with me as well!" ［Yuna］
Thankfully, with her so excited, she is quite easy to distract. Grey was able to avoid Yuna cooking up more dangerous and shady schemes. Now, the happy and innocent Yuna is back, a smile blooming on her face.
"Then... Grey, let's continue, shall we?... Our adventure date, that is..." ［Yuna］
Yup, Grey really couldn't understand her. One moment, she is acting excitedly like a child and the next moment, she gets all shy and embarrassed by her own words, her face turning rosy. She really was a girl unlike any other.
"Then, please follow my lead, Milady. I'll make sure you have the best and most memorable tour on this island." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! I'm looking forward to it!" ［Yuna］
Grey extended his hand, and Yuna accepted it quickly. As her giggles resounded in the air, Yuna held Grey's hand tight and hummed to herself as she enjoyed the warmth of Grey's large hands. The latter was also the same.
They hopped across the boulders, skipped the rivers, hiked the hills, and jumped from tree to tree. Though they were just traveling aimlessly, they were having the most fun they could, doing all sorts of things with their time.
The more they explored the island, the more beautiful sights they saw. There were waterfalls, creeks, springs, lakes, and all sorts of rock formations. It wasn't just all forests either, there were also grassy mountains, meadows, and plains.
Of course, the beaches and coves were no joke either. Not only were the waters of lighter blue than the sky, the sandy beaches were white as well. It was the perfect spot if one wants to have the most memorable vacation.
"Grey～! I'm tired～! Piggyback me～!" ［Yuna］
And as they were all alone, Yuna didn't miss the chance to act clingy and needy. She playfully squatted on the ground, acting as if her legs were aching and opening her arms towards Grey. She was acting mischievous again.
"Hmm... It's unfortunate, but it seems like we'll have to leave you here. There's still quite a lot to explore, after all." ［Grey］
"Eh? Huh?" ［Yuna］
"Don't worry, I'll be back before the sun sets. So, just rest for now, okay? I'll make sure to bring a lot of fruits once I'm back." ［Grey］
"Eh? Ah! Grey, wait!" ［Yuna］
Unfortunately for Yuna, as her clingy side surfaced, Grey's mean and teasing side also did. It was fortunate that he was facing away from Yuna, otherwise, she would clearly see his chuckling face, having as much fun as he could.
Not wanting to be left behind, Yuna quickly stood up and chased after Grey, skipping her steps with a hurried expression on her face. She was confused and pouting at the same time as she burned a hole through the latter with her stare.
"Hm? Is something wrong?" ［Grey］
"No... Nothing..." ［Yuna］
Oh, she was pouting alright, and so openly as well. Whilst puffing her cheeks, she poked Grey's side again and again. Every time Grey asked if there was nothing wrong, she would simply shake her head, continuing to poke his side once more.
It was a very Yuna-like way of protesting, and Grey couldn't help chuckle inwardly as he enjoyed such a treat to the eyes. Though he feels a little sorry for bullying Yuna, he just couldn't help it. Her expressions were just too adorable.
"Waah!" ［Yuna］
And as sudden as their whims, Grey suddenly bent his knees and scooped Yuna by the back of her knees and her back. Before Yuna could even react, she was already being carried in Grey's arms, princess carry style.
"G-Grey! Put me down!" ［Yuna］
"Hm? Didn't you say your legs were tired? With this, I'm sure you'll get some rest. Just relax, alright?" ［Grey］
"That's right... But this is too embarrassing..." ［Yuna］
Now, the pouting lady was no more. All that there was to see was an embarrassed young lady who could only cover her flustered face. Meanwhile, Grey was smiling ever so happily, his smiles extending from ear to ear.
"Grey, you meanie..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Then, should I put you down?" ［Grey］
"Umm... That's... I'm still a little tired..." ［Yuna］
But protest as much as she could, she couldn't hide the desire to be in Grey's warm embrace. With her still embarrassed face, she leaned her head close towards Grey's chest, listening to his calming heartbeats. Warmth and silence was in the air.
For a couple of minutes, the two continued walking with Yuna still in Grey's arms. It was only when they both snapped back into reality that they stopped doing such things, finally feeling the embarrassment. Both their faces were red because of their own silly doing.
The exploration continued and the two found more amazing places. They climbed the peaks and dove into the deepest depths of the forests, yet strangely enough, even with all the exploration they did, they haven't met a single one of the natives.
And if there was one thing Grey noticed, it was that there were many fruit trees and plants from his previous world's country which were present in the island. There were guavas, saba bananas, rambutan, tamarinds, and many more.
"Grey, are you sure these are bananas? They look weird..." ［Yuna］
Commented Yuna as she pointed to the saba bananas in front of her. Not only did they look short and stubby, they also had larger seeds as well. Not to mention that they were much harder. It was just too different.
"Yeah, that's a banana alright. Do you want to eat some?" ［Grey］
"Hm? But didn't you say we shouldn't get something without permission?" ［Yuna］
"That only applies to you. We both know you'll gather everything you see when you go foraging. I'm sure you'll wipe this forest clean." ［Grey］
"Uuu... That's unfair..." ［Yuna］
Yuna complained but she couldn't exactly retort as they both knew it was true. If she really were to go all out, not just the herbs, but all the fruits and interesting looking plants would be picked. Heck, she might even hunt some animals for the sake of curiosity. She was dangerous,
In fact, Grey couldn't begin to fathom how much of a hoarder his girlfriend is. It didn't just extend to edible things and potions stuff, but monster drops and treasures as well. If there is no one to supervise her, she would surely go ham.
"Now, now, don't be too sad. I'll make sure you enjoy what I'll cook later." ［Grey］
"Hm? We won't eat it right now?" ［Yuna］
"Well, it's a little strange eating saba banana on its own. We need to cook it, you know? Frying and all that stuff." ［Grey］
"Eh～? You cook these little guys?" ［Yuna］
Yuna tilted her head left and right as she observed the bunch of saba bananas in front of her. She never fried bananas before nor had she ever thought of doing so. As a cook, she found it very interesting.
Of course, there are a lot of differences between European and Asian cuisine, after all. And with all the ingredients in the island, Grey could finally cook many of his favorite Filipino dishes and let Yuna have a taste. He was very excited.
"Grey, how about these things?" ［Yuna］
"Those are tamarinds. It's quite sour so we could use it as seasoning or make candies with it." ［Grey］
"Ehh～? Then these, what are these?" ［Yuna］
"Those are cottonfruits. They're sweet and sour, but we usually eat them with salt. I think we could try some of them right now." ［Grey］
Yuna asked and Grey answered. It was like they were in a zoo, only that they were looking at plants and fruits rather than animals. Though Yuna asked quite a number of questions, Grey didn't fail and answered them all.
Of course, they also had a little tasting session with the various fruits found on the island. Some were sweets, some were sour, and some were very juicy. They were having a feast on their own, enjoying their time to the fullest.
There were also a number of beautiful animals to be found on the island. From the common boars, snakes, and squirrels, all the way to the beautiful foxes and birds of paradise. Heck, there were even pangolins and tarsiers Grey only saw on televisions back then. It truly was a paradise.
"Yuna, what do you want for dinner tonight? With the ingredients we have today, I could make something new, or do you want the usual?" ［Grey］
"Hehehe! What a silly question. Of course, we'll have to go with something new! We're cooks, after all." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Then, could I ask you to help me out later?" ［Grey］
"Of course! I'll do my best!" ［Yuna］
Yuna declared proudly and Grey chuckled to her words. Little did they know, they haven't eaten lunch yet. They were so excited about exploring the island, the sea, and all such things that it totally slipped their minds.
Though they ate a couple fruits here and there, with Grey and Yuna's appetites, they could barely be considered a snack. Fortunately, the two were still unaware, their minds still focused on exploring.
"Oh?" ［Grey］
"Hm? Is something wrong, Grey?" ［Yuna］
"No, it's just... It seems like we have company..." ［Grey］
Replied Grey as he observed little ants move from above. Well, rather than little ants, they were actually a small band of people heading towards their direction, rushing at speeds no normal person could follow.
"Oh? Are they the natives? I hope they're friendly!" ［Yuna］
"Friendly, huh... That might be a little..." ［Grey］
Rustle Rustle Rustle
It didn't take too long before the natives Yuna was looking so much forward to meeting finally reached them, but unlike the former, the natives weren't exactly looking forward to meeting. They were one you could call friendly...
"Stop, you evil spirits! Don't take another step!" ［???］
Rather than a handshake, what greeted Grey and Yuna were a number of sharp spears, pointed towards them as the people circled around them. All wore fierce and wary eyes on their faces, ready to attack at any moment.
Silence was in the air, tension running along the same lines. A dangerous glint glimmered in the warrior's eyes, shimmering ever so fiercely like their spears which reflected the radiant sunlight. It was an awkward situation to say the least.
CHAPTER 225 END