Flap Flap Rustle
The white curtains flapped up and down as they danced to the tunes of the soft wind, the birds' chirping serving as the sweet melody in their little show as the morning sun gave them the most glamorous of spotlights.
Sunlight gently seeped through the glass windows, a silver-haired elf basking upon it, draped with a disheveled blanket as she lay down the bed, soft as the clouds above. The more one looks at her, the more radiant she becomes.
"Rise and shine, Sunshine." ［Grey］
"Mmngh..." ［Yuna］
Of course, who else would the silver-haired beauty be other than Yuna? A young lady who despite her disheveled hair and sleepy eyes still managed to outshine the sun above, stretching her arms to greet the new day.
"Mmn... I wanted to sleep longer..." ［Yuna］
"Haha. You know we can't do that. Today's an important day, remember?" ［Grey］
"An important day...?" ［Yuna］
"Of course. We've been planning for it, after all." ［Grey］
To Grey's words, Yuna could only tilt her head slightly to the right, confused as one can be as she tried to scour her brain for whatever Grey was talking about. And albeit late, only one thing came to her mind.
"Ah! Right! Today's the day we invite everyone!" ［Yuna］
As soon as she remembered, a sudden surge of energy and enthusiasm entered her body, quickly jumping on the bed with her eyes sparkling bright as usual as she fixed herself and prepared for the day. A sight which Grey couldn't help but chuckle at.
It has been several days since the defeat of the Leviathan, and a lot of things have happened since then. For one, the refugee camp was nearing completion, the reports have also been given to the Guild and the Beldons, and Torogi's recovery has also been going well.
Just recently, using the materials they got from the archipelago and the laboratory, Yuna had advanced to Tier-8 in Alchemy, and at the same time Grey had advanced to Tier-7 in Enchanting. They have improved yet again.
But perhaps the most exciting part was that they have finally completed their plans for their outing with everyone. Now, all that was left to do was extend their invitations and see who can attend and who cannot. Excitement was in the air.
"Mmn～! Hmm～! Hmmn～! Mmn～!" ［Yuna］
"You sure are excited, aren't you?" ［Grey］
"Of course! I can't wait to enjoy the sea with everyone!" ［Yuna］
A bright smile blooming on their faces, Grey and Yuna soon exited their room. With the Leviathan subjugation completed, they have gone back to the Beldon mansion for the time being. And it may be because it has been a few days since they slept in such a wonderful bed, but they were both in a good mood.
But unlike their usual routine before, they didn't immediately head to the dining hall. They already had a place to have breakfast in mind, and all they needed to do was hand out their first invitation.
Tap Tap Tap Tap
And just in time, two figures appeared in front of them, talking ever so formally as they discussed a couple topics between themselves. They were none other than the Lord and Lady of the Beldon Marquisate, Abraham and Vilma.
"Good morning Missus Vilma! Good morning, Mister Abraham!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! Good morning too, Miss Yuna, Mister Grey." ［Vilma］
A wave and smile at them and the married couple replied just in kind. They may already be in their late thirties, but they were gorgeous. A simple reply from them was enough to make them shine.
"Are you heading out to the dining hall as well?" ［Abraham］
"Ah, about that... We actually won't be having breakfast with you for now, but now that we're all here, I guess it's the perfect time to talk about it." ［Grey］
There was not a single second to waste. As soon as Grey brought up the topic about their planned outing, the married couple listened attentively and nodded along from time to time. With Yuna's help with the explanations, it didn't take too long before they both understood.
"I see... A beach outing, so to say..." ［Abraham］
"Yeah, that's the gist of it. And we know you're both busy right now, but we'd love it if you could take your time and think about our invitation." ［Grey］
"Hmm.., I'm a little busy, but I should be able to make some time..." ［Vilma］
"Me too. I'll see what I can do." ［Abraham］
"Fufufu! That's more than enough for us." ［Yuna］
They were not yet definite answers, but Grey and Yuna were happy nonetheless. As long as Abraham and Vilma considered their invitation, they were already satisfied. A break from work was still important, after all.
"Well then, we'll be heading out now. See you later." ［Grey］
"See you later, Mister Abraham～! Missus Vilma～!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! You too, and take care～!" ［Vilma］
Their business at the mansion done and dusted, Grey and Yuna then headed out to town and extended an invitation to Jiro's family. To which, the latter accepted with delight. The kids were especially excited.
The sun still new in the sky and the waves splashing ever so loudly, Grey and Yuna then utilized "Gate" and headed back to Galderia. A familiar scenery greeted them, but there was no time to dawdle. They still have an important task to accomplish.
Cling Cling Cling
The doors creaked and open, and soft chimes filled the air. The familiar fragrance of stew and soup wafted through the air, arousing one's appetite and inviting people over. It has been quite some time so Grey and Yuna were excited.
"Oh! Welcome, what wouldー Ah! Grey, Yuna, you're back!" ［Helen］
"Good morning Helen～!" ［Yuna］
"Morning, Helen. We'll be having the usual, please." ［Grey］
It was the Rabbit's Den they hold so dearly. As soon as they entered, they quickly took a seat just in front of the counter. It was lucky that they entered a little late, and so, there weren't many people around. They could enjoy a little bit of freedom.
And like a bolt of lightning cruising through the sky, Helen moved quickly from the counter towards the kitchen, taking their orders and bringing back with her a number of steamy and delicious dishes. Not only that, Gerd and Selia were also with her.
"Oh, you're back earlier than I imagined..." ［Gerd］
"Well, not really... We still have a couple things to do back there. We just came back to do a couple things is all." ［Grey］
"Un! That, and... we also just missed your cooking! After all, Mister Gerd and Missus Selia's stew is the best." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha! You're making this old man embarrassed. But we'll take that as a great compliment, thank you!" ［Gerd］
The atmosphere was light as ever. As Grey and Yuna dug in on their meals, smiles soon formed on their faces as they savored the taste of the dishes. They have eaten them a lot of times already, but they never get bored with it, delicious as always.
And as they ate, Gerd, Selia, and Helen also grabbed a meal set for themselves and joined the two in breakfast. It was just like their first few days in Galderia, smiles and laughter dancing in the air.
"Right, everyone, are you all free next week?" ［Grey］
"Next week... We'll be business as usual. Why?" ［Selia］
"Ah, you see... Me and Yuna actually made a plan for outing with everyone. And if possible, we'd also like to invite you." ［Grey］
"Un! We'll be having lots of fun in the sea and the beachー" ［Yuna］
"The sea?! Beaches?! Let's go! Mom, Dad, let's go! Let's go!" ［Helen］
Yuna couldn't even finish her words when Helen suddenly cut her off. The moment she heard the words "sea" and "beach", a switch quickly flicked inside her mind, excitement flooding her heart full and her eyes sparkling like an excited little child's.
With such a bright, expectant, and excited look on her face, there was no way Gerd and Selia could deny their daughter's request. All they could do was sigh as they gave up on resisting. It was decided.
"Haah... Alright... I suppose a break is good every now and then too." ［Gerd］
"Fufufu! I look forward to seeing the sea too." ［Selia］
"Yaay～!" ［Helen］
As if she just won the lottery, Helen excitedly raised her hands towards the air as soon as Gerd and Selia's words. She jumped up and down like a little child, a large smile painted on her face. All that was lacking were confetti.
Well, it was only natural. After all, neither of them had ever seen the sea before. With how far Galderia is from the coast, it would take several days of travel just to get there. Not to mention the cost... It was simply difficult. Hence, Helen's excitement,
"Ah! But wouldn't it be hard getting there?" ［Gerd］
"Don't worry about it, Mister Gerd. We have our ways. Just leave to us," ［Grey］
"Well, if you say so..." ［Gerd］
Gerd didn't ask any more questions, and he would later regret that he didn't. After all, when Grey and Yuna meant everyone, they really meant everyone. The moment he meets the Royal Family would be the greatest shock of his life. But that's a story for another day,
Grey and Yuna continued their wonderful breakfast in the Rabbit's Den, chatting and laughing merrily. They talked about quite a lot of topics and it never got boring. Soon, they left the inn to invite the others.
"Ah, right... Helen, how's your progress with Mister Owen?" ［Grey］
Well, that is after they teased her for a little bit. As soon as Grey asked the question, Helen dropped her spoon to the ground and her face was painted red, turning shy all of the sudden. It was an interesting sight to see.
After which, Grey and Yuna then headed from house to house and invited a number of people. From the guilds, the mansions, and the houses of people they knew well, they explored quite a lot. It was a fun time.
"Next week, huh... I think I'll be able to make some time." ［Cedric］
"Hmm... I'm afraid I'll have to decline. I'll be busy that day." ［Dale］
"The sea?! Of course! Count us in!" ［Kris］
"If you're fine with me, then I'd love to go with you!" ［Tilda］
There were a variety of responses. While many accepted immediately, there were also some who simply couldn't join due to how busy they were and some were still pending and undecided. But all in all, there was a great result.
Grey and Yuna were also about to invite Aria's family over, but Aria herself strongly advised against it. Just thinking what kinds of shenanigans her father would pull was enough to make her headache. It was Falroe, after all.
Time passed some more and as they went around, the people on their list dwindled and dwindled. Soon, it was time to head over to another town and invite the Landevars. They could always use the phone, but seeing them personally was still the best,
"I'll go! I'll go! Right, Father?!" ［Eliza］
"Haah... What else could I say?" ［Fritz］
And it didn't take long at all. As soon as Grey and Yuna mentioned an invitation, Eliza quickly agreed even when she didn't know what it was for. Even Fritz was powerless against his daughter's wishes. Her pleading eyes were just too much.
"Then, see you next week～!" ［Yuna］
"Un! See you next week, Elder Sister Yuna, Elder Brother Grey! Bye～!" ［Eliza］
With the Landevars finished, there was only one more place left to go. A quick use of "Gate" and Grey and Yuna swiftly arrived at the largest and busiest city of the kingdom. It was the Royal Capital!
Of course, they didn't simply pop out near the streets. They have already learned their lesson from last time. Like they usually do, they just popped up in the Royal Castle's innermost gardens which the King had permitted them to do so.
"Haah... Anderson's been scolding me a lot lately..." ［Ernes］
"That's because you don't do your work, Dear. Anyone would be mad," ［Talia］
"Talia... Are you really taking Aderson's side over me?" ［Ernes］
"Dear, I'm just simply stating the facts." ［Talia］
And what greeted them was another one of the King and Queen's banter. The King was once again complaining and the Queen scolded him. After seeing it several times already, Grey and Yuna have already gotten used to it.
"Good day, Your Majesties, everyone." ［Grey］
"Oh! Grey, Yuna, you're finally back, where have you been? We haven't seen you two in two weeks." ［Ernes］
"Well, a lot of things popped up here and there. And we couldn't really do anything about it. Thankfully, we've already dealt with it." ［Grey］
"Hoh... That's good to hear. Good indeed." ［Ernes］
It was as if his their previous conversation was but a passing single lie. The King was nonchalant as usual, the Queen remained beautiful and gentle, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess cheerful as one can be, and Iris was still adorable and polite.
And unlike usual, as it was the weekends for the Royal Academy, Julius was also present. As soon as he saw Grey, he quickly greeted him with a little bit of bickering. Just boys being boys.
Lastly, there was the Little Princess who was just the most adorable little creature in the world. With her big and round eyes, she stared at Grey and Yuna, not uttering a single word. Soon a greeting came her way...
"Hello, Little Princess～! How have youー" ［Yuna］
"Hic... Hic... Hic..." ［Natalia］
Well, it was a greeting quickly cut short by none other than the Little Princess' teary and sniffling face. It hasn't even been a minute since Grey and Yuna arrived and the Little Princess was already shedding tears. Everyone was frozen.
She sniffled and sniffled, tears continuing to trickle down her small face. And as if stabbing Grey and Yuna's heart with guilt, the Little Princess looked at them with such a heartrending expression on her face. They couldn't even crack a smile.
"Umm... Little Princess, are you upset that we didn't you? We're really sorry, some things just came up and we had to fix it. But don't worry, we're here now." ［Grey］
"Un. It's not like Big Sis and Big Bro here didn't want to see you. We were just busy. Won't you forgive Big Bro and Big Sis? Please～?" ［Yuna］
Thankfully, it wasn't the first time they had to deal with a crying child. They simply squatted down to meet her eyes and gently explained things to her, all the while patting her head to calm her down.
"But... But... Hic... You bweak... Pwomish wif Nalia... Hic..." ［Natalia］
"We know, we know, and we're really sorry for it. Big Sis and Big Bro have been bad, haven't we? Do you not want to play with us anymore?" ［Yuna］
"No! Hic... Nalia play... Hic... No..." ［Natalia］
"There, there... No need to cry anymore. Big Sis and Big Bro aren't going anywhere. We'll play lots with the Little Princess so won't you give us a big hug?" ［Yuna］
It was as easy as that. As the Little Princess, albeit a crybaby, was an obedient little girl, she slowly got down her chair and embraced Yuna, all the while trying to hold her tears, the latter patting her back gently like a mother lulling her child to sleep.
After Yuna, she then went to Grey to give him a hug as well. And as they had already expected, the Little Princess didn't let go anymore. Previously, it was Yuna, and now it was Grey. They could only carry her as they repent on their mistakes.
"You sure have a knack for calming children down, don't you?" ［Ernes］
"Hahaha, you're praising us too much, Your Majesty. We're still inexperienced. We were just lucky." ［Grey］
"Un. The Little Princess is an obedient child, after all." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha! Whose granddaughter do you think she is?" ［Ernes］
The King wearing a smug expression on his face, Grey and Yuna also joined the royal family in their little break and took their seats. They sat beside the Queen and Iris, with the Little Princess now sitting on Grey's lap, clinging like a scared kitten.
"Speaking of which, Grey, Yuna, how was your trip Marquess Beldon's territory. I heard there were a lot of beautiful sights to see there." ［Talia］
"I also heard about their specialty dishes there. Were they good?" ［Natasha］
"Un! They were! Especially the squids and lobsters, they're really delicious! Oh! And the clams too, they go well with butter and soy sauce!" ［Yuna］
"Oh my, I really want to try that." ［Natasha］
Snacks and refreshments on the table, they then talked about Grey and Yuna's stay in Lista with great detail. From the wonderful beaches to the delicious cuisines, they chatted about a number of topics, various expressions playing on their faces.
"Well, it's not all good things though..." ［Grey］
"Un... We also encountered quite a bit of trouble..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. I can't say I'm surprised. Did you fight another criminal organization or something? You always get into all sorts of things, after all." ［Julius］
"Speak for yourself, and it's not like we wanted to get caught up with them... It's just, you see..." ［Grey］
And as they were already on the topic, they also discussed the matters relating to Torogi to them. The reports should arrive from the Marquisate soon, but it was still better to tell them as soon as they could.
After all, Torogi sits inside the territorial waters of Alfrione. While there's no chance Alfrione would threaten them without reason, they would still have to involve with one another sooner or later now that they knew of each other's existence.
Torogi could become a vassal of Alfrione, or simply become an independent state on its own and be an important trading partner. Either way, it is something which would impact the future of the two.
"Hmm... That's quite a troublesome topic..." ［Ernes］
"Your Majesty, please take this more seriously. This is an important matter for the Kingdom. You ought to act more dignified." ［Anderson］
"Yeah, yeah, I know. Stop nagging." ［Enes］
And as it was almost time for the King's break to end, the Prime Minister who was about to get him happened to join them on the topic. Thanks to him, the explanations went quickly as he broke down the batters into smaller tasks.
"Hmm... I thought you just dropped by to play with Natalia, but I guess you also bring a number of surprises from time to time. Though I can't say I'm happy... After all, you just increased my workload." ［Ernes］
"Haha... Sorry about that..." ［Grey］
Or so the King says, but behind him, the Prime Minister was already furrowing his brows. After all, he was the one who took care of most things as the King slacked off. His head was already aching just thinking about it. A pitiable man.
"Oh, right! Before we forget, we'd also like to invite you to an outing." ［Grey］
"An outing...?" ［Julius］
"Un! Torogi has wonderful beaches and sights, after all! We want to invite everyone to enjoy and relax! There'll be lots of fun!" ［Yuna］
At Yuna's words, everyone was in awe and mystified, thinking about what things they could enjoy. It has been quite some time since they took a vacation, after all. They could only imagine how fun it would be from seeing Yuna's bright expressions.
"The beach, huh... It's been quite some time since I've gone to one..." ［Galleus］
"Fufufu! Just thinking about it makes me excited!" ［Natasha］
"Enjoying with everyone... Will Liz be there too?" ［Iris］
Everyone was excited, but perhaps and unexpectedly, the most excited one was Iris. Though they only met because of Grey and Yuna, she had become good friends with Eliza. She was looking forward to seeing her again after several months.
"Outing...?" ［Natalia］
"Un! Big Sis and Big Bro will play lots with the Little Princess for two whole days! Do you want to go with us?" ［Yuna］
"Um! Go! Nalia, go!" ［Natalia］
"Fufufu! Then it seems like it would be a lot of fun!" ［Yuna］
Even the Little Princess who didn't actually understand everything fully was very excited. All that was on her mind was playing a lot with everyone. She was still just two-years-old, after all. It was only natural.
"Well, looks like it's already decided... You won't be stopping us, now would you, Anderson? I mean, that would just be cruel to Natalia if you do. Just look at that excited face she's wearing. You wouldn't, would you?" ［Ernes］
"Your Majesty... I understand... But just this once..." ［Anderson］
"Hahaha! I know you would understand me, Anderson! Hahahaha!" ［Ernes］
Of course, if there was innocent excitement, there was also a mischievous one who was using the vacation as a way to escape his responsibilities and slack off. He even went as far as to use the Little Princess' adorable smile to his advantage. He truly was the lowest of the low.
With that, the Royal Family was finally invited and the list of invitees was almost complete. There were a lot of them, and surely, it would become a lot of fun as well. Grey and Yuna couldn't help but look forward to it. They were very excited.
"Ah, right... Grey, Yuna, you have some sweets with you, right? Would it be alright if we have a taste. I'm sure Natalia would also love it." ［Ernes］
"Your Majesty...." ［Grey］
CHAPTER 240 END