"Hehe... Hehehe... Stop... Tickleshh... Hehe..." ［Natalia］
A sweet and harmonious melody. The soft giggles of a child as she cuddled with six furballs danced in the air, warmth and excitement floated adrift the place as bright smiles illuminated the ever so colorful gardens.
A couple figures looked at such a sight with satisfied smiles blooming on their faces, hearts filled with warmth and happiness as they watched the Little Princess stumble and fall as the familiars played with her.
"Fufufu! After all, a smiling face suits the Little Princess the most!" ［Yuna］
"My, I couldn't agree any more. Our Natalia is the cutest after all." ［Talia］
Yuna commented and the Queen responded. Both were happily enjoying the joyous and heartwarming sight before them. It was very peaceful, the rustling of the leaves and flowers clearly resounding in the air.
The King was dragged away by the Prime Minister for work, both the Crown Prince and Crown Princess were performing their duties, Iris was now studying, and Julius had gone out with Amelia. It was the most peaceful the garden has been.
'It sure is quiet... I wonder why...' ［Grey］
Pondered Grey as he watched over the Little Princess. Even with the aforementioned reasons, it was still uncharacteristically quiet. Grey couldn't help but be bothered as if something was wrong, tilting his head left and right as he tried to figure out what it was.
'Ah... So that's why...' ［Grey］
It was only when he finally remembered a certain figure that he finally understood why it was unusually quiet. Surely, without her, the palace was calm and tranquil, void of any disturbances. That very figure was none other than the hyperactive and mischievous Vanessa!
For some reason, Vanessa would always find them whenever they get inside the Royal Castle, and bother them like there was no tomorrow, stringing them along her whims. Now that she wasn't present, it really seemed like it was another world.
But rather than relief, what Grey felt was ominousness that she wasn't there. Even when he checked with his "Heaven's Eye", she wasn't in the castle grounds. Now, it was especially worrying.
"By the way, Your Majesty, where's Big Sis Vanessa? I don't see her around. Did something happen?" ［Grey］
"Vanessa...? I wonder too... I also haven't seen her in a while..." ［Talia］
"Hm? Big Sis Vanessa? Did something happen to her?" ［Yuna］
"No, that's not it. I was just curious why she isn't around. She'd usually be here already, after all." ［Grey］
"That's true..." ［Yuna］
There was no denial on Yuna's part. After all, Vanessa really was just something else. Other than being a powerful Lieutenant General, she was also infamous in the castle for being a troublemaker. They could only think what kind of shenanigans she is up to.
Well, there was also the fact that Grey and Yuna needed to invite them as well, along with Elise, Elaine, and Amelia's families in the Royal Capital. A little more and the list would finally be complete. It was a much needed question to be answered.
"Oh? Your Highnesses are here as well?" ［Edward］
And as if the heaven's were blessing them with an answer, the General showed up in front of them, bringing a number of documents in his hands. He bowed politely as usual, greeting everyone with great respect.
"Good day, Edward." ［Talia］
"A wonderful day as well, Your Majesty. Is His Majesty not around?" ［Edward］
"Oh, Ernes was just dragged away by Anderson. They will be in the office by now. Are you going to hand him the reports now?" ［Talia］
"It is as you say, Your Majesty. Quite a lot of things happened during the week so I want to discuss it as soon as possible." ［Edward］
At the General's words, everyone once again looked at the paperwork in his hands. First, it was the Torogi-related matters, and now, a report from the General. The King's work just keeps piling up. Now, he has to work even harder.
The vacation which he once looked forward to has become a dagger which stabbed him in the back. Though he could enjoy it, before he could, he needs to finish all the work which has piled up before then. It was going to be one hell of a week for him.
"Then I won't be disturbing your lovely break any further. I will be excusing myself, Your Majesty, Your Highー" ［Edward］
"Ah, wait a moment, Edward." ［Talia］
"Yes, Your Majesty?" ［Edward］
"I haven't seen Vanessa around the castle lately. Did something happen to her? I'm just a little worried, especially since she's pregnant right now." ［Talia］
"Vanessa... Hmm... Vanessa..." ［Edward］
To the Queen's question, the General was made to ponder. He cupped his chin and scratched his beard, trying to recall Vanessa's current situation. It didn't take long before he found the answer, a warm smiling appearing on his face.
"If it's Vanessa, you don't have to worry about that. Ranzel sent me a report this morning and said she was fine, just experiencing some difficulties." ［Edward］
"Difficulties... Is she ill?" ［Talia］
"Ohoho, no, not at all. She's just undergoing labor at the moment." ［Edward］
"""..."""
A huge bomb, yet the General just dropped it as if it was something trivial, a smile still floating on his face. Meanwhile, everyone else was shocked beyond belief, their minds unable to process what just happened.
It was only then that they remembered that it has actually been a little over nine months since Vanessa's pregnancy started. As the dots started to connect in their minds and they finally snapped back into reality, only a single sound rang in the air.
""Ehhhh??!!!"" ［Grey and Yuna］
Aside from the Queen who was silently shocked, Grey and Yuna couldn't help but let out a voice of disbelief as their minds finally processed what happened. Yuna was even trembling as she worried over what might happen.
Well, it wasn't like Grey couldn't understand her. After all, unlike Earth with modern technologies, maternal mortality rate is much higher in Merusia. And though Vanessa being a noble with access to facilities and a High-Ranker pretty much makes the rate nonexistent, he still couldn't help but worry.
"Your Majesty, What should we do? Would Big Sis Vanessa be alright?" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! Don't worry too much about it. Though childbirth is painful, I doubt Vanessa would lose to it. I'm sure it will be fine." ［Talia］
"Her Majesty is right. If anything I'm worried what she might do to the midwife. It would be troublesome if she starts kicking from pain." ［Edward］
The Queen and the General said with confident smiles on their faces. Even then, Grey and Yuna couldn't just calm down. Having no idea about how it really was like, they could only worry endlessly and irrationally over Vanessa's safety.
"Fufufu. Well, if you're that worried over Vanessa, why don't the two of you head there and see for yourself?" ［Talia］
"Would that be okay...?" ［Yuna］
"I'm sure it would. If anything, Vanessa would most likely be happy if you went there. I'm sure she will be delighted." ［Talia］
Both Grey and Yuna were hesitant, but with the Queen putting it in such a way, there was no way they could simply push things away. It may only help a little bit, but they were more than willing to help. With all sorts of items and potions in their hands, there was nothing to worry about.
Well, they were all set when they remembered something very important. They haven't even answered when the Little Princess looked at them with such innocent eyes, staring deep into their souls.
"Fufufu! Don't worry about Natalia. I'll take care of her." ［Talia］
"Big Bro, Big Sis, leafing?" ［Natalia］
"That's right, but don't worry, Grandma and the puppies will play lots with you. Or... Do you not want to play with Grandma anymore?" ［Talia］
"No! Nalia play wif Gwanma!" ［Natalia］
"Fufufu! My, my, our little angel sure is an eager one." ［Talia］
Thankfully, there was the Queen to remedy the problem. They haven't even asked for it, but the Queen already understood their intentions. With a little bit of talking, she quickly got the Little Princess' attention, managing to look after her.
"Thank you very much, Your Majesty. We'll surely return the favor." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! My, I have no idea what you're talking about? Is there something to thank a grandmother for playing with her granddaughter? If anything, I should be thankful that you always play with Natalia." ［Talia］
The Queen does not show it, but she was really kind and considerate towards Grey and Yuna. It was kindness which would make one wonder how such an elegant and dignified lady got married to a mischievous and tyrant of a King. It was a mystery.
"Then, Little Princess, let's play lots when we're back, okay? Make sure to behave and not make Her Majesty tired." ［Yuna］
"Um! Nalia, behayve!" ［Natalia］
"Fufufu! Good girl～!" ［Yuna］
Due to the Queen's assistance, it was quite easy parting with Natalia. A little bit of patting to the head and she was already satisfied, running off towards the familiars and playing with them once again. With that, all troubles have been averted.
"Well then, Your Majesty, we'll be taking our leave." ［Grey］
"I'll also be taking my leave, Your Majesty, Your Highnesses." ［Edward］
"Yes, yes, take care, everyone." ［Talia］
Exiting the Royal Gardens, Grey and Yuna then quickly headed towards the Filastra mansion in a hurry, draping themselves with cloaks as soon as they were out and using Yuna's "Nihility" to conceal themselves from the public eye.
Though things would be faster if they just use "Gate", they have already learnt their lesson from entering the Royal Castle without permission. It may be inconvenient but passing through the main gates was still for the best.
"Excuse me, we'd like to enter, please." ［Grey］
"I'm afraid that isn't allowed. Unless you have an appoinー"
"Sorry, but we're in a hurry." ［Grey］
"Y-Your Highnesses?!"
The gate guards were wary at first, but a single flash of their privilege cards and their attitudes turned a complete 180. They immediately bowed their heads before them, acting stiffly like some sort of broken robots.
"So, can we enter?" ［Grey］
"O-Of course! Your Highnesses are welcome anytime!"
"Alright, thank you very much." ［Grey］
"N-No need, it is our pleasure."
The gates didn't waste any time. As soon as they saw their cards, they immediately opened the gates and let them through. And as like bolts of lighting streaking across the sky, Grey and Yuna quickly vanished, leaving behind clouds of dust in their wake.
With a little bit of asking around, they quickly pinpointed the location of Vanessa's room, and surely enough the servants were right. As soon as they headed up the third floor, a couple of familiar figures could be seen waiting by the door,
"Mister Ranzel! Kurt! We heard Big Sis Vanessa is in labor!" ［Yuna］
"We're really sorry for the unannounced visit. We were just worried about Big Sis Vanessa. We'll take any scolding later." ［Grey］
"No... It's alright. If anything, I'm more relieved that you two are here." ［Ranzel］
Ranzel and Kurt were surprised, yes, but with the nervousness that they were feeling, such surprise soon vanished as if it was just a lie. Rather, they felt a little more relieved that Grey and Yuna were there.
After all, in the slightest off-chance something were to go wrong, potions and holy magic would always be handy. Though it was best if such a thing wouldn't happen, there was nothing wrong being to careful. They were all worried, after all.
"Anyway, Mister Ranzel, how is Big Sis Vanessa doing?" ［Grey］
"Frankly, I don't know. It's been quite some time since the midwife last exited and we haven't heard from the maids inside too. Butー" ［Ranzel］
"Owww!! That hurts! Baby, you're hurting Mommy too much! Oww!" ［Vanessa］
Ranzel couldn't even finish what he was saying when Vanessa's voice boomed all throughout the corridors. It was so loud that they thought their ear drums were going to be ruptured. Even when in labor, she still managed to make some trouble.
"Well... As you can see, she's still quite energetic..." ［Ranzel］
But hearing her words, albeit sounding strangely, they felt more relieved than before. After all, if she is still able to make such comments, it means she was still more than fine. If anything, it might be the helpers having the difficulties.
"Anyway, I didn't think you'd be here, Grey, Yuna. Did you have something important to discuss with His Majesty?" ［Kurt］
"Well, rather than that... We just invited everyone for a bit of fun." ［Grey］
"Un. We wanted to enjoy the sea with everyone so we went there. It was only because the General told us that we know that Big Sis Vanessa is in labor." ［Yuna］
"I see... I did write a letter this morning, but an outing...?" ［Ranzel］
It took quite a bit of time, but like how they always did, Grey and Yuna once again explained to Ranzel and Kurt about their outing. After all, they were also included in the list of invitees that Grey and Yuna made.
And throughout the whole explanation, they were interrupted from time to time by a screaming Vanessa. One moment, she was screaming in pain and the other, she was encouraging the baby to push through. It was as if the baby could understand her. She truly was a strange one.
"Well, that was the plan, but... I doubt you'd be able to make it, huh..." ［Grey］
"Sorry about that, but with Vanessa right now, I don't think we'll be able to attend it. Maybe next time, if we have the chance." ［Ranzel］
"Me too. I'll also be busy finishing Elder Sister's paperwork now that she's become a mother. I hope you understand." ［Kurt］
"No, no, we understand. Rather, it would be good if Big Sis Vanessa and the baby take their time and rest." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Thank you for understanding. And I'll make sure to take care of both of them so you don't have to worry." ［Ranzel］
It was a shame that they couldn't include Ranzel, Kurt, and Vanessa in the atendee's list, but there was nothing they could do about it. Vanessa and the baby's health was still the priority, everything else was second.
"Ah! And please don't tell Vanessa about this. I'm sure she would throw a tantrum if she ever finds out." ［Ranzel］
There was even no need to reply. Everyone silently nodded their heads to Ranzel's request without uttering a single complaint. It was Vanessa they're talking about, after all. Things would only get troublesome if she knew.
Time passed some more, and they spent their time chatting about all sorts of things. Thanks to Grey and Yuna being present, the atmosphere has become lighter and not as tense as before. Everyone was calmer than ever,
Click Clack Creak
And after several minutes of waiting and a series of Vanessa's screams and shrieks, the doors finally opened. The housewife, sweat trickling down her face, nodded her head simply as she signaled everyone to get inside.
Footsteps echoed in the air and the sound of racing hearts got louder and louder. A figure lay down on the bed, drenched in sweat and pain still stinging her body. Yet despite all that, she was smiling from ear to ear.
"Big Sis Vanessa, are you okay?" ［Yuna］
"Okay? Do I seem okay? It still hurts a lot, you know? I would take a fight against an Orc King over this any day... But... It's fine now. I'm very happy." ［Vanessa］
"Phew... That's a relief... And the baby?" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! It's a healthy baby girl." ［Vanessa］
Vanessa declared proudly as she showed the little angel resting by her side. Her eyes were still close and her skin was still reddish, but seeing her, wrapped in a swaddle, they could only feel adoration, their hearts pumping happily,
But perhaps the most affected person was the father. Unlike the others who looked at the baby closely, he simply stood away from them, unable to take a step as she watched her wife and daughter. Ranzel was frozen.
"Fufufu! Dear, would you like to hold the baby?" ［Vanessa］
"A... Ah, yes... I'd love to." ［Ranzel］
Slowly but surely, the midwife instructed Ranzel how to hold a baby gently, and as he learned it quickly, the baby was soon delivered to his hands. He was very tense and nervous, yet extreme joy and happiness surged deep inside his heart as he held their daughter in his hands.
"Fufufu... Dear, she's beautiful, isn't she?" ［Vanessa］
"She is... She really is..." ［Ranzel］
So much happiness in fact that before he even knew it, tears started to form in his eyes, trickling down his face. He was speechless, unable to express what he was feeling in words. All he knew was that he loved the little creature in his hands.
In their years of being together, there were only a few rare occasions Ranzel ever cried. Him showing a vulnerable side of him was only a testament of how much he was feeling at the moment. Vanessa couldn't help but break a smile.
"By the way, Big Sis Vanessa, what will you be naming the baby? Have you thought of one already?" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! Of course! I'm your beautiful and capable Big Sis, after all!" ［Vanessa］
Vanessa declared proudly, but not a chance in the universe does her name match with reliability and capability. If anything, she was the opposite of those. But it's not like they can go against her anyway. She was simply a league of her own.
"Antoinette! Her name shall be Antoinette! Beautiful, isn't it?!" ［Vanessa］
"Antionette... Antoinette... Antoinette von Filastra... It's beautiful... Welcome to the world, our lovely and dearest Anne..." ［Ranzel］
A single name rang in the air, announced to the whole world as a gentle smile formed on Vanessa and Ranzel's faces. And as their declaration echoed, the status which was once empty in Grey's eyes has finally been updated.
On the 4th of Marina, year 1768 of the Velterian Calendar, a new angel was brought to the world. The Filastra household has grown yet again and the wind danced in celebration. It was a joyous occasion.
"Kurt, would you also like to hold her?" ［Vanessa］
"Can I?" ［Kurt］
"Well, you're her uncle, aren't you? You'll have to hold her sooner or later. It's better to get used to it now." ［Vanessa］
"I suppose you're right..." ［Kurt］
Careful and cautious as one can be, Kurt accepted Antoinette in his hands. As soon as he did, a similar happiness sprouted in his heart, feeling like he was on cloud nine, as he watched the little angel squiggle in his arms.
"Uu... Uuuu... Uwaahh! Waaahhhh! Uwaaahhhh!" ［Antoinette］
Unfortunately, the same couldn't be said for Antionette. Just a couple moments after Ranzel handed her over, she quickly started frowning, soon crying as if there was no tomorrow. And as the one holding her, Kurt couldn't be any more surprised.
"E-Elder Sister! Wh-What should I do?! Sh-She's crying!" ［Kurt］
"Calm down, Kurt, she's probably just hungry. Here, give her to me." ［Vanessa］
"Y-Yes!" ［Kurt］
As if he was handling the most fragile thing in the world, Kurt slowly inched his way towards Vanessa and gave her the baby. And after learning a couple instructions from the midwife, the first breastfeeding quickly began.
"Oh... Ohh! Oh, my! She sucks quite aggressively! It's also a little ticklish! Look, lookー Huh? Why are you all looking away?" ［Vanessa］
"Elder Sister... You ought to learn a little more delicacy..." ［Kurt］
"Huh? It's just breastfeeding. There's nothing to be ashamed about, isn't there? It's not like we didn't go through this when we were young." ［Vanessa］
"Elder Sister..." ［Kurt］
"Dear..." ［Ranzel］
She really was quite the wild one. Even when Grey, Yuna, and Kurt had taken it upon themselves to turn around as she breastfeeds Antoinette, she still managed to break the mood, not a single ounce of shame on her face.
Though she wasn't entirely wrong in her point, as a noble lady, she still ought to show some degree of delicacy like Kurt had told her. Though they already knew Vanessa was a league of her own, they were still surprised. One could only wonder how her mind works.
"Umm... Mister Ranzel... Good luck." ［Grey］
"Un! Please do your best!" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, thank you..." ［Razel］
It has only been a couple minutes since he became a father and he is already faced with an incredible difficulty. One could only expect and imagine how things would be in the near and far future, and cheer on him with all their hearts.
The journey had just started and the road was still long ahead of him. As the thorns and walls along his path appeared before him, he could only wonder if he could push through it all. His head only ached the more he thought about it.
Congratulations and good luck, Ranzel! You can do it!
CHAPTER 241 END