The light shimmered and sparkled, dyeing the mountains, rivers, and forests with a golden hue. Such brilliance even overpowered the sun reigning above the vast blue sky, glimmering with warmth and comfort.
In the presence of such brilliant light, people, no matter what their status were, could only kneel in respect and silence, not daring to raise their heads any higher. Peace and quiet reigned over the Great Hall, swallowing it whole.
Two figures glimmered with the holy light, their faces only showing indifference as their eyes sparkled like jewels and their gazes peered through one's soul. There was dignity and nobility in their presenceー or so how it would seem. But deep in their thoughts...
『Grey... How do I say this... Is this okay? I feel bad doing this...』 ［Yuna］
『I'm also not sure... I didn't think they would react like this...』 ［Grey］
... There was only guilt brewing in their hearts, their consciences hammered time and time again as they watched the people genuflect before them. They couldn't even look them in the eye, not wanting them to see their guilty expressions.
Though they have already accepted the roles of being "Emissaries of God", so that the talks could proceed smoothly, they didn't think things would go so far. They could only feel the burden of their actions weighing down on their shoulders.
Well, with Grey being sent to Merusia by God, such a role wasn't exactly wrong. And adding to that his purpose, it only made perfect sense. Still, he couldn't say he was comfortable using such legends to their convenience. It felt like he was a scammer.
『Well, we've already started this... Let's just see this through until the end. I'm sure we'll find a way to resolve the misunderstanding one way or another.』 ［Grey］
『Hmm... Grey, I didn't think you'd be so carefree about this... This is a serious matter, you know?』 ［Yuna］
『Hey, now. It's not like I'm alone in this. You're also an accomplice, my Dear Yuna. We're both in this together.』 ［Grey］
『Uuu... That's right, isn't it?』 ［Yuna］
In the end, the two simply decided to not think too much about it, leaving whatever happens to the future to future them. They decided to cross the bridge once they got into it. A casual and simple decision.
"Everyone, raise your heads." ［Grey］
"As you wish, Lord Grey." ［Manelo］
Everyone's attitudes have completely changed. The Great Chief who was once calm, calculating, and wary had now completely let down his guard, putting all his trust to the youths before him.
It wasn't only the Great Chief either. Everyone else in the room also had their doubts cleared after witnessing such a mystical scene. Even the most cynical of them didn't dare to argue any longer. The power balance has completely shifted.
"Ah! What are you waiting for?! Hurry up and get the most comfortable seats for Lord Grey and Lady Yuna!"
"Get them the best food and drinks as well!"
"Let's make a feast! We need to celebrate this grand celebration!"
In fact, the moment they realized that Grey and Yuna were still standing in the center of the Great Hall, barely accommodated properly, they quickly rushed and ordered the servants to prepare the beast they could, panicking and hurrying.
"Lord Grey, Lady Yuna, forgive our lack of reception. We'll makeー" ［Manelo］
"No, it's alright. We won't be staying long for long anyway." ［Grey］
"P-Pardon?" ［Manelo］
At Grey's words, everyone immediately stopped on their tracks, petrified like statues. The cheerful atmosphere quickly vanished, everyone's hearts quickly downcast as they were thrown into a roller coaster of emotions.
"Well, we still have a few other businesses to attend to after this. We have quite a busy schedule. I hope you understand." ［Grey］
"I... I see... That's a shame..." ［Manelo］
Or so how Grey explained it. And though he was not strictly lying, the real reason was that they were just feeling too guilty to stay. Seeing such expectant eyes from the people, they felt like their hearts and conscience were being stabbed time and time again. It was simply too much.
"Then, back to our proposal. We'll be defeating the Evil Beast for you. That's alright with you, isn't it?" ［Grey］
"A-Ah, yes... We're more than grateful for that. But... How could we possibly ever repay you? I-Is there anything you need from us?" ［Manelo］
"Payment, huh..." ［Grey］
To the Great Chief's words, Grey was quickly made to ponder, his eyes shifting to Yuna's direction as he asked the same question. But no answer ever came, only silence loomed over the great wall.
It was to be expected. After all, Grey and Yuna's initial purpose for paying a visit to the Chiefdom was far from what they're currently talking about right now. Though they proposed a deal to take care of the Evil Beast, they still haven't thought about the compensation on their side.
In the first place, they weren't even 100% sure if they could defeat it. Though it won't be a problem if it is below Disaster-Class, if it was stronger, things could get more complicated. Things were still far from certain.
"Well, let's not think too much about the payment for now. How about we decide about it once the Evil Dealt has been dealt with. Is that alright?" ［Grey］
"Yes. That's more than we could ask for." ［Manelo］
In the end, Grey could only postpone their decision for their side of the deal. With it, both him and Yuna could think of what to ask, but them being the way they are, it probably would be a simple request. They aren't ones to ask for overbearing things.
And at their words, everyone could finally heave a sigh of relief, a ray of hope finally shining down upon the Chiefdom. Though the problem hasn't been solved yet, they could only look forward to the future.
As opposed to how they previously were when Grey and Yuna first entered the Great Hall, the elders could now be seen smiling as they exchanged words with one another, finding better promise in their futures.
"Then... That should be all, isn't it? We'll be going on our way now. We'll be back first thing tomorrow morning." ［Grey］
"A-Ah, wait! Lord Grey, Lady Yuna, wouldn't you stay even for a little while? We'll be preparing a feast shortly to welcome you." ［Manelo］
"A feasー" ［Yuna］
"Ah! A feast, huh?! Sorry, but we'll really have to go now. Like I said, we're really busy. I hope you understand." ［Grey］
It was a close call. The moment Yuna's ears picked up the word "feast", her ears quickly perked up and her eyes quickly sparkled. She was about to say something, but thankfully Grey managed to cover her mouth with his hand.
There was no need for telepathy. All Grey needed to do was watch Yuna's eyes and he could see the words "Grey, let's stay, I want to eat." and a lot more appeared in her eyes. A number of sentences could be read, each one containing her excitement.
『Grey...』 ［Yuna］
『No, we're leaving. And that's final.』 ［Grey］
『But Grey, it's a feast! A feast, you know?!』 ［Yuna］
『I know. But we're still leaving. I'll cook you a feast later, alright?』 ［Grey］
Like a father appeasing his child, Grey did his best to compromise with Yuna's wants. It wasn't the first time such a thing happened, but Grey still couldn't say he was used to it. Yuna had become more and more childish with the passing of time.
'Haah... I really should stop spoiling her...' ［Grey］
Grey thought, reaching only such a single conclusion. He was put into deep thought as he looked at his girlfriend's sparkling eyes once again, wondering where the meek and reserved Yuna had gone to. It truly was a mystery.
Well, it wasn't only Yuna. The others also looked forward to serving them with a great feast, and the moment Grey replied with such words, their expressions were quickly crestfallen. Grey could only shake his head as he watched the scene unfold.
"Umm... Is something wrong, Lord Grey?" ［Manelo］
"No... Nothing's wrong. About the feast... I'm sure everyone's tired today, so how about tomorrow? That should be for the best, no?" ［Grey］
"O-Of course! We'll make sure to prepare the best feast for you!" ［Manelo］
And a couple statements from Grey, their moods were quickly raised to cloud nine. It wasn't only to welcome Grey and Yuna, but for everyone to have a break from their worries as well. Each and everyone of them really was a handful.
A festive atmosphere bloomed and everyone quickly discussed what they should prepare for tomorrow's feast. It reminded Grey of the lively atmosphere back in his high school days when his class decided the theme of an event. It was nostalgic.
"Then, since everyone's busy right now, we'll be taking our leave. We'll come back tomorrow once we have settled everything." ［Grey］
"Un! We're looking forward to the feast!" ［Yuna］
"Yes! Leave everything to us, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna! We'll make sure not to disappoint. It will be the best feast Torogi has ever seen!" ［Manelo］
A proud declaration. The Great Chief puffed his chest, placing his right hand over it as he reassured Grey and Yuna. With such a confident expression on his face, the two couldn't help but smile warmly.
With everything done and settled, it was finally time to leave. The Great Chief tried to attach escorts to them, but they simply refused. They don't want people finding out their abilities, after all. It would only be troublesome if they did.
Minutes passed and after diving deep in the forest, the village was finally out of sight. There were only trees and various flora to be seen no matter how one turns their head. Soon, blue light illuminated the verdant forest as a gate was opened.
"Grey, about dinner tonight... I want to eat seafood dishes. Ah! And if possible, I want lots and lots of lobsters!" ［Yuna］
"Alright, alright, lobsters it is. Anything else?" ［Grey］
"Hmm... Squid? I think squid would also be nice!" ［Yuna］
There was only a silly conversation to be heard in the quiet forest. With Grey's previous promise, Yuna didn't hold back any longer and asked for any dishes which came to her mind, passing through the gate as they continued talking.
White light flashed before their eyes, and the next things they knew, the viridescent forest was nowhere to be seen. There was only a dark alley, the sound of the waves echoing quite some distance away as they seagulls perched atop the roofs.
It was fortunate that Grey and Yuna explored a lot of hidden and quiet places the day before. They never thought they'd use it to sneak in and out of Lista, but nevertheless, it was still very useful. Now, they could sneak in and out without being spotted.
"Oh! And Grey! I think we could also use the weird turtle from before! I want to see what it tastes like." ［Yuna］
"A Pterygia, huh... It's going to be a challenge, but I'll do my best." ［Grey］
"Yaay～! You're the best!" ［Yuna］
Of course, even when they were on the other side gate already, they still continued talking about what they'll be having for dinner. After all, Grey promised her a feast, and so a grand feast it would be.
Talking ever so enthusiastically, Grey and Yuna slowly exited the alleyways and out into the open streets. As soon as they did, Yuna quickly stopped clinging onto Grey and limited herself to handholding. The spoiled Yuna was a sight only for Grey to see.
The town was still as lively as ever, oblivious to the troubles in the sea and simply going about their daily lives like they usually do. And Grey and Yuna wanted it to stay like such. They swore to protect such happiness.
"Ah! Your Highnesses, you've returned!"
As soon as they arrived at the mansion's gates, the guards quickly greeted the two of them with welcoming and friendly smiles on their faces. There was no need to search for their identity cards. They were simply let inside.
"Ah, right, has Missus Vilma returned yet?" ［Grey］
"Oh, yes! Her Excellency has returned for some time now. She should be talking with His Excellency right now."
"I see. Thanks, we'll be going now." ［Grey］
"Continue the good work～!" ［Yuna］
Grey and Yuna soon waved their hands goodbye and the knights, receiving such gestures, smiled widely as they bowed their heads. They then returned back to their posts, more motivated than ever.
As for the two, they simply headed inside the mansion and traversed the large and spacious corridors. A lot of servants greeted them as usual and they greeted them back with a smile. Though it wasn't home, it was a very comfortable place.
Knock Knock Knock
It wasn't too long before Grey and Yuna arrived at Abraham's office, and like they thought, both him and Vilma were inside, their incomprehensible voices echoing ever so quietly. Voices which only stopped the moment a couple knocks filled the air.
"Mister Abraham, it's us. Can we get inside?" ［Grey］
"Ah, Mister Grey, Miss Yuna, come in. We were just waiting for you." ［Abraham］
Click Clack Creak
A number of sounds echoed and soon the doors were opened. And just like before, the number of paperwork was no joke. They were on vacation, but the scene couldn't be any further from the truth. Abraham was even busier than he was before.
Seeing such a large mountain of paperwork, Grey and Yuna were very relieved they didn't accept the King's rewards back then. They would rather deal with monsters, beasts, and bandits than do such troublesome tasks. It was a relief indeed.
"I heard from Vilma about what happened this morning. It's a relief to see that you're both doing fine." ［Abraham］
"Well, it was a really interesting event for sure. But thankfully, it was nothing too difficult to handle. Just a little bit troublesome" ［Grey］
"Fufufu! That's right. Though it did serve as a good warm up." ［Yuna］
"A good warm up, huh... As expected of our Heroes, you really are something." ［Abraham］
Hearing Grey and Yuna's words, Abraham could only smile wryly. After all, not only was it a large stampede, there were also a pair of B-rank beasts involved. To dismiss it simply as an "interesting event".... It was surreal.
Well, it was only to be expected. They were Grey and Yuna, after all. They weren't new in such matters and have already fought much stronger enemies. Rather, they were happy to get a lot of new ingredients to try out. A strange pair is what they are,
"Speaking of which, are the fishermen alright, Missus Vilma?" ［Yuna］
"Fortunately, yes, they're all fine. Though some were scared, they aren't ones to falter by such things. I'm sure they'll be back on the sea in a week or two." ［Vilma］
"I see... That's good to hear." ［Yuna］
Though Grey and Yuna have already healed everyone's wounds and injuries, mental and emotional wounds were something out of their capabilities. It was a relief that not a single one was wounded too much even after such a hellish experience.
Well, it's not like they haven't gone through such hardships before. Be it violent storms, beast attacks, or problems in the ship itself, they have gone through many rough times, and fear isn't enough to shake them. They were strong.
"But, Mister Grey, Miss Yuna, where were you after the incident? Your familiar had talked to us, but I still don't understand where you went. Did something happen?" ［Vilma］
And there it was. The question they have been waiting for. Though Grey and Yuna wanted to be the ones to open the topic to them, Vilma beat them to the punch. There was no need to waste any more time dilly-dallying.
"Actually, about that... It's a long story..." ［Grey］
They didn't waste a single second. From when they fought against the beast up until the part where they made a deal with the Great Chief, Grey and Yuna didn't spare a single detail and briefed Abraham and Vilma of the situation.
If there was anything they skipped out on, it was the part where they simply idled their time away and explored the islands, eating a couple fruits along the way and touring the island like some sort of tourists. Other than that, the key parts were mentioned.
Both the Marquess and Marchioness paid their utmost attention to Grey and Yuna's words, nodding their heads and pondering all the while. They also made sure to ask some questions while they were at it. It was quite a lengthy discussion.
"Torogi, huh... I can't believe there exists another civilization right under our noses... This is a lot to take in..." ［Abraham］
"Abraham, I know you're surprised, but that's not the problem right now." ［Vilma］
"I know, I know, it's the Evil Beast, right?" ［Abraham］
There was no immediate answer to Abraham's words. Vilma and the others simply nodded in silence, the office's atmosphere turning serious in an instant, only the sound of the clock ticking to be heard.
"Mister Grey, you said the beast might be a Leviathan, right?" ［Abraham］
"That's only an assumption, but yes. Not only does it match the people's description, it's also powerful enough to drive away ever Tartler Sharks and Pterygias." ［Grey］
"That's true... If there is one which can do it, it would surely be a Leviathan. The only problem is its age..." ［Abraham］
An even heavier topic was brought into the table with Abraham's words, and silence once again swallowed the whole office. After all, there is quite a large difference between a "Lesser" and a "True" Leviathan, and even much worse if it turned out to be an "Elder" Leviathan.
Though Grey could still defeat it, the Marquess and Marchioness still do not know of him reaching Calamity-Class. There was no need to reveal all their cards and be simply kept quiet.
"Haah... If this goes on, this would surely affect the fishing industry, not only in Lista, but in other port towns and cities as well." ［Abraham］
"I agree. And if worse comes to worst, the Leviathan might wander around and arrive here at Lista. Abraham, we need to do something about this." ［Vilma］
"I know. But it's hard to move when we don't even know where our enemy is. On top of that, we're near the sea. It's a disadvantage for us." ［Abraham］
It was just like they feared. The longer the Leviathan is left, the more problems it will cause. Not just the Chiefdom of Torogi, but everyone would be a victim of its rampage. It was like a tickinb time bomb.
At first, it would only affect the economy and livelihood of the people, but if things worsen even more, lives could be lost from the stampedes. In the worst outcome, the Leviathan could arrive near the coast and wreak havoc. It was something they all wanted to avoid at all costs.
It was a relief that Grey and Yuna happened to arrive at the island, otherwise, they would still be in the dark about what's happening. It would have already been far too late once they found out what is going on.
"Haah... This is quite problematic. It seems like we'll need to inquire the help of the Adventurers' Guild. We'll most likely discuss this sooner or later." ［Abraham］
Abraham said, pinching the middle of his brows, but his eyes were glued at towards Grey and Yuna's direction. There was no need to say more, it was obvious what he wanted to ask even if he didn't open its mouth.
"Don't worry, we'll also help. We already made a deal with the Chiefdom anyway, we'll see this through until the end." ［Grey］
"Un! We'll make sure everyone's safe and sound. It's just a big, blue fish, anyway. No biggie." ［Yuna］
It was quite a description for a Leviathan, but it was something Grey had expected from Yuna. And hearing such words, both Abraham and Vilma couldn't be any more relieved, finally able to heave a sigh of relief.
Though they felt apologetic to ask Grey and Yuna to help when they were simply sightseeing in their domain, there was only so much they could do about it. Hence why they're very thankful that the two took the initiative and offered their hands. They came to respect them even more.
"I'm really sorry about this, Mister Grey, Miss Yuna. Don't worry, I'll make sure to reward you handsomely." ［Abraham］
"Yeah, we know, but first things first, Mister Abraham... Could we borrow the kitchen for a little bit?" ［Grey］
"P... Pardon? The kitchen...?" ［Abraham］
"Well, actually, we haven't had lunch yet, so we were thinking we'll cook up a little or something. Is that alright?" ［Grey］
"Un! We promise we'll clean up after our mess!" ［Yuna］
Two completely unexpected answers, and one which was a far shot from what they were just talking about. Hearing Grey and Yuna's words, the tension in the air was quickly dampened, removing the dark and depressing atmosphere from before.
To their words, Abraham and Vilma couldn't help but break a smile, a smile which soon turned into gentle laughter, dancing merrily in the air. In just a single moment, they were suddenly relieved of their burdens.
"Hahaha. Of course, of course, you can use it however much you want. If there's anything you need, just please ask the chefs and servants. They would be more than willing to help." ［Abraham］
"Alright, thank youー Ah, we'll also be serving these for dinner if possible. Would that be alright?" ［Grey］
"Of course! You're more than welcome to do so! I would also like to taste the famous cooking of our dear Heroes." ［Vilma］
"Famous, huh... Fufufu! Then please look forward to it!" ［Yuna］
The tension was now gone, and all there was left was a warm and light-hearted mood looming over the office. It wasn't long before the two exited the office, yet even then, they left such light-heartedness and comfort behind.
For the first time in a while, the office felt rather cozy than burdening, the tension and pressure lighter than ever. Even with the problems at hand, they could face the future with a smile. It was very refreshing.
'Dinner, huh... I'm looking forward to it.' ［Abraham］
CHAPTER 228 END