"Hmm... Shouldn't we buy more sugar?" ［Yuna］
"Yuna... This is already more sugar than we'll ever need, you know? Really... You and your sweet tooth..." ［Grey］
"Uuu... But I'm sure a little more sugar won't hurt..." ［Yuna］
The young lady said, upturned and innocent eyes gleaming brightly on her face. But her request was not little at all, rather, it was quite the opposite. Innocent as she may look, she was demanding to increase the amount of sugar they buy by more than twofold.
To which, Grey could only look at her with a troubled expression. After all, they have already doubled the amount of sugar they need. Doubling it another time was simply plain absurd. Not even a bakery consumes so much sugar. Yuna's sweets addiction was really on another level.
"Haah... Alright, fine, but under one condition. I'll cut your sugar allowance by half. That, or we'll go by our original plan." ［Grey］
"Grey! That's so mean! This is abuse of power! I thought you loved me?!" ［Yuna］
"I do... But besides that, I know you've also been stashing away bags of sugar when you go out shopping with Helen. Or... Do you also want to have a cut on your daily allowance as well?" ［Grey］
"Uuu... That's... You know, umm... That is... Well..." ［Yuna］
Yuna tried to come up with an excuse, but no matter how hard she tried, nothing popped up in her mind. Well, even if something did, Grey would instantly find out she's lying. In the end all she could do was agree on Grey's term and settle with their initial plans. Grey had the last chuckle.
It has been a couple days since Antoinette's birth and now, Grey and Yuna are back on Torogi to prepare for the upcoming outing. All the plans were now complete, along with the agreement from all parties. All that was left to do was set up the venue.
The sun was still young and the butterflies fluttered in the wind as they filled the fields with life and color. The wind danced and the blades of grass swayed along it. A soft and peaceful opera played in the fields with joy and calmness.
A single young lady sat atop a small, smooth boulder swinging her legs up and down as she enjoyed the view. A smile was afloat on her face enjoying her long-awaited rest, free from all the responsibilities she bore. It was a happy day.
"Marika～!" ［Yuna］
"Ah! Big Sister Yuna! Big Brother Grey!" ［Marika］
That young lady was none other than the Great Chief's clumsy yet reliable daughter, Marika. As soon as she saw Grey and Yuna's figure nearing her, her ears perked up and her smile bloomed even brighter as she skipped her steps towards them.
"Are you free right now?" ［Grey］
"Hm? I am... Do you need something from me?" ［Marika］
"Well, sort of... Do you still remember that promise we made with you?" ［Grey］
"Promise? We did...?" ［Marika］
She really was a clumsy and airheaded girl. It hasn't even been that long since they made the promise and she has already forgotten about it, tilting her head left and right as she tries to recall what it was all about.
The young lady pondered and pondered, and a number of incidents flashed before her mind. A few moments later and she finally recalled what it was, a surprised yet excited expression blossoming on her face.
"By promise, you mean...!" ［Marika］
"Yeah. It's already long overdue, but if you want, we'd like to take you to a city in the mainland. A promise is a promise, after all." ［Grey］
"Un! We'll be shopping and exploring all day. We'll have lots and lots of fun until we're tired. So... What do you say?" ［Yuna］
"I-I'll go! I'd love to go! I'll go with Big Sister Yuna and Big Brother Grey!" ［Marika］
There was no need to think any further. As soon as Grey and Yuna extended their invitation, she quickly agreed to it, her eyes sparkling brighter than the sun. There was only excitement in her eyes, unable to keep herself calm.
"Th-Then! I'll ask Papa for permission! I promise I'll be back quickly!" ［Marika］
"Okay, just make sure to be careful. Keep your eyes on the road!" ［Yuna］
"Yes! I will!" ［Marika］
Marika said as she ran off to the distance, and surprisingly, she didn't trip immediately and kept on dashing towards their house. There was an extremely excited expression plastered on her face, a face bright as one can be.
"Uwaaah!" ［Marika］
Well, it didn't take too long and she eventually tripped. Thankfully, she only tripped towards a sift and grassy area, her knees and elbows receiving mercy from fate. Grey and Yuna were both worried and relieved at the same time.
It didn't take too long before Marika returned, bringing only her bright and excited smile. The rest were inside her storage ring. She only brought a couple of essentials, some food, and money. A waving young lady could be seen drawing nearer.
"Waah～! That was quick!" ［Yuna］
"W-Well... I just got a little too excited..." ［Marika］
"Fufufu! I understand. I was also excited the first time I went to a city. I'm sure you'll enjoy it like I did." ［Yuna］
"Yes! I'm looking forward to it!" ［Marika］
An enthusiastic and expectant voice ringing in the air, Grey and Yuna couldn't wait any further. With a wave of his hand, a white gate opened before them, a place full of surprises waiting on the other side.
"Well then, shall we?" ［Grey］
A single foot went inside the gate, followed by the leg, and soon, Grey's whole body. Yuna and Marika followed suit after him, heading into the gate, blinding yet gentle light gracing their eyes.
The light soon faded away, and as she opened her eyes once more, a forest of stone greeted Marika. Towering buildings tall as one can be, paths made entirely of stone, and all sorts of decorations hanging outside. They were still in the alleys yet she was already mystified... Speechless...
"Big Sister Yuna, Bigー Eh?" ［Marika］
Yet such surprise and excitement soon turned into confusion the moment she turned around. Though they were undoubtedly Grey and Yuna, their eyes and hair color were different. It was a simple yet fantastic change.
"Fufufu! Don't get too surprised now, we'll be exploring with you like this throughout the whole day. After all, it would be troublesome if people see us." ［Yuna］
"That's right. And remember to keep our powers a secret. You absolutely must not tell anyone about it, understand?" ［Grey］
"Y-Yes! I understand!" ［Marika］
In fact, she did not understand. Why Grey and Yuna need to disguise themselves, and why she needs to keep their abilities a secret, she doesn't know why. Yet despite all that, she chose to believe the two, not a single ounce of doubt in their eyes.
"Fufufu! You're too serious, Marika. Come on, let's go!" ［Yuna］
Yuna in the lead, footsteps soon echoed in the air as everyone headed out of the alleys and into the open streets. The dim alleys got brighter and brighter with each and every step, a blinding light greeting them as soon as they faced the streets,
The light faded and Marika opened her eyes. A lively spectacle was what greeted her as she did, all sorts of things, people, and colors flashing before her eyes. To such a wonderful and mystical sight, she could only utter a single sound.
"Waah～...." ［Marika］
The buildings, the stalls, the carriages, and the very street itself. Everything was a big novel to her innocent eyes, a mix of emotions swirling in her heart as she watched the scene unfold, unable to move from her spot.
Previously, Grey and Yuna promised to bring her to Lista, but since relations are starting to get established between Torogi and the Beldon Marquisate, it would only be a matter of time before she visits the town in the future. It was then that they'll bring her to the Royal Capital, and as it seems, it was the right choice,
Marika's eyes were still full of awe as she watched the street. She turned her head left and right but not a single sound came out of her mouth, still unable to process what she's witnessing before her. She was full of curiosity.
"This is Farsa, the Royal Capital and also the largest city in the Kingdom, and as you can see, it's also the busiest. If I'm not wrong, there should be around a million people living here... Impressive, isn't it?" ［Grey］
"Yes, it is... I didn't think so many people would be living here... Even Tororgi only has thousands... It's amazing..." ［Marika］
"Hahaha. Well, it's too early to be amazed. This is just normal for the Royal Capital, you know? The neighboring Empire even has one about four, maybe five times bigger than this." ［Grey］
"Eh?! Th-Then that means... Umm... Five million?! Th-That's so many!" ［Marika］
Like a child who just learned about outer space and dinosaurs, Marika's curiosity and excitement cannot be contained as she tried to grasp what the Royal Capital really was, getting excited at every fun fact Grey threw at her.
After all, Marika was a naturally curious girl, and in her eyes, her world has just grown by leaps and bounds. With her nature, it was only natural that she asked for every little thing, eager to learn and happy to listen.
"Now, now, you two. We still have a lot to do, remember? We don't want to spend the whole day standing here, do we?" ［Yuna］
"Oh, Yuna's right. We should get moving now, shall we?" ［Grey］
"Y-Yes! I'll be in your care!" ［Marika］
A little kick start from Yuna and everyone was finally on the move. As they took their steps, Marika's head turned left and right, sparkling brightly. She didn't understand everything she saw, but she was excited nonetheless.
"Hahaha. It reminds me of the first time we got to Galderia. You were just as excited as Marika right now." ［Grey］
"Mou... I can't help it, you know? It was my first time in the city, after all." ［Yuna］
"I know, I know, and you were really cute back then. I kind of want to see the shy and excited Yuna again." ［Grey］
"Eh～? What do you mean by that?" ［Yuna］
"Hmm... I wonder too." ［Grey］
Of course, what day would be complete without a bit of flirting from the two. It was fortunate that Marika was so engaged in observing the Capital that she didn't hear them, otherwise, it would have been embarrassing.
Their walk continued and Marika encountered all sorts of things. From fancy carriages, tall skyscrapers, massive museums, and the ever expanding market. There were a lot of things to see and Marika was excited about each and every single one of them.
"Oh! Big Brother Grey, Big Sister Yuna, what's that?" ［Marika］
"That's a fountain. You can find it in almost every plaza, and it's one of the most notable landmarks in the city." ［Grey］
"Un! And best of all, many performances are done near them. If you want to see a good show, you just need to come here and you'll see all sorts of things." ［Yuna］
"Waah～! That's amazing!" ［Marika］
There were springs, waterfalls, and creeks all over Torogi, and beautiful sights which one could only dream of seeing, yet even the simplest thing was enough to make Marika amazed like a little child.
It wasn't just the fountains. The street lamps, the sheds, the benches, the stalls, the brick road, and many more. Marika was entranced by every little thing, asking Grey and Yuna questions to satisfy her curiosity. It was like bringing a child to a playground for the first time.
Well, it's not like Grey and Yuna couldn't relate to what she's feeling. After all, they both had their fair share of uncontrollable excitement brought about by curiosity. They could very well understand what Marika was feeling at the moment.
"Skewers! Skewers! Buy your skewers here!"
"Freshly baked cheese bread! Buy some while it's still hot!"
"Hey, Mister, would you like some meat buns? It's very affordable, I promise!"
And of course, what plaza kind of would be complete without a bustling line of food stalls lining up by the side of the streets. All sorts of delicious snacks and dishes were on display, aromatic smells wafting through the air.
"Ah! Big Brother Grey! Big Sister Yuna! I want to buy some skewers!" ［Marika］
"Fufufu! Go ahead. It's still the same as buying things in Torogi. There shouldn't be any problems." ［Yuna］
"O-Okay! I got it!" ［Marika］
A smile of confidence in her face, Marika skipped ahead and headed towards the stall with a heart brimming with excitement. It was going to be her first purchase outside of Torogi, after all. Who wouldn't be?
But before she could even buy some skewers, she suddenly froze in shock, and soon after, she returned to Grey and Yuna with a crestfallen expression on her face. She was pale and in disbelief, as if her world was just shattered.
"Did something happen, Marika?" ［Grey］
"E... Ex..." ［Marika］
"Ex...?" ［Grey］
"It's so expensive..." ［Marika］
It didn't take long before Grey and Yuna understood the problem. It was only then that they remembered how cheap things were Torogi, Though the reason was opposite, Marika was experiencing the same shock as they did.
Not too long ago, Grey had found a way for ships to travel in and out of Torogi using a certain path the ancient Empire of Aslan used. Not only that, he also turned off the veil which once shrouded the island, making it reappear to the outside world.
With it, Torogi would surely engage in trade with Alfrione and other territories, and just like Marika, the inhabitants would surely be shocked as well the moment they realize how different people value things in the mainland.
Such a subject would be resolved over time, but for now, what they needed to do was explain things properly to the still shocked Marika. Who knows, it might help out the people later if Marika were to guide them.
"Umm... Marika, don't be too shocked, but what we're going to say, alright? Promise me that you'll remain calm." ［Grey］
"Y-Yes... I'll try my best..." ［Marika］
Grey and Yuna explained things to Marika slowly and surely, and the latter listened to them attentively. There were times where she was baffled and times her mind just straight up crashed, Marika.exe stopping its functions.
"So... So, five times... Things are more expensive... Five times more expensive... Am I dreaming? Is this a dream?" ［Marika］
The shock was just too much to handle. After all, Marika grew up with such values regarded as "normal" to her. Being told that they were the ones who were different was more than shocking, her world crumbling down to dust,
Thankfully, it was not that critical of a topic. With just a little bit of time and thinking, Marika managed to regain her composure and calmed herself down. It was still a shock, but it was now manageable.
"Then, Big Brother Grey, Big Sister Yuna, what should I do? I didn't bring that much money. Would I be alright?" ［Marika］
"Fufufu! What are you talking about? We were the ones who invited you, it's only natural that we treat you." ［Yuna］
"Eh? But... Would that be alright...?" ［Marika］
"Of course! So let's enjoy ourselves as much as we can, okay?" ［Yuna］
She was downhearted, but with a little bit of encouragement from Yuna, she quickly got back up on her feet, her face now beaming even brighter than before. It was as if Yuna used magic, yet she didn't. She was simply one sweet angel.
"Grey, we'll be going to the stall right now. Would you like us to get anything for you? Grilled sausage, cream buns, or anything?" ［Yuna］
"Hmm... I'm fine with anything. I'll just get the same thing as you two." ［Grey］
"Okay! Roger that!" ［Yuna］
Grabbing Marika by the wrist, Yuna headed to the skewer stall and bought all sorts of things with Marika. She pointed left, right, up, and down, filling the paper bag with all sorts of meaty and juicy treats. She was even more excited than Marika.
Seeing her act like such, Grey could only ponder over how much he really loves her, a strong desire growing inside his heart. A certain selfishness to keep Yuna by his side and not letting go. He was more serious than ever.
It was not that Grey wasn't serious with her relationship with Yuna before. Rather, ever since they started dating, he's always taken into consideration their future together, especially regarding marriage. But it was only recently that he felt a strong sense of wanting, feelings getting stronger than ever before.
From "I would like to marry her someday", his thoughts changed to "I want to marry her". There was no one else in his heart but her, wanting to spend all of eternity by her side and holding her hand as they went along life. He was more certain than ever.
And like before, he couldn't act on his feelings, afraid to be rejected by her. After all, Yuna had previously mentioned she was still too young to get married, and it hasn't even been a year since they started dating. He didn't want to rush things too much and just act on impulse.
'Haah... How troublesome...' ［Grey］
His heart wants to just rush towards her and hold her tight but his mind wants him to be careful and consider things more properly. No matter how he spun it, there was no one answer which could satisfy him.
"Grey, is something wrong?" ［Yuna］
He thought too much that before he even noticed, Yuna and Marika were already back, holding bags upon bags of food in their arms. A playful smile was on her face, making his heart quickly skip a beat.
He was so surprised seeing Yuna's face up close that he quickly turned his face the other way to hide how beet red his face had become. It was a dangerously close call. It really was.
"Ah, no... I was just thinking that there sure are a lot of people in the central plaza right now. It's really bustling." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! What are you talking about? It's always been like this, silly!" ［Yuna］
"Hmm... I guess you're right..." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! You're probably just hungry. Here, have a bite!" ［Yuna］
Excited as one can be, Yuna took out a skewer from the bag and fed it to Grey. And as usual, it was juicy and tasty, a harmonious flavor of sweet and spices exploding in his mouth, but... Grey couldn't even taste it properly. Another thing was on his mind.
A single smile, and all his troubles were suddenly blown away. The storm in his heart which was once raging and chaotic was now calm like the surface of a still lake. There was no need to worry.
'Well, I guess there's no need to rush things... Let's just enjoy the moment right now.' ［Grey］
It was as if all his troubles were but passing lies. The moment he saw Yuna's smile was the moment he decided to let things flow like it usually does. He might not find an answer today, but he will surely arrive at one one day. It's just the way of life.
"How is it?" ［Yuna］
"It's good. I could eat these all day." ［Grey］
"I know, right? Marika's also enjoying herself." ［Yuna］
"I-It's very delicious, after all!" ［Marika］
There was only happiness in the air as they started moving their feet again. They had no destination in mind, simply moving along as they dug away the delicious treats Yuna and Marika bought.
The sight was wonderful, the atmosphere was lively and cheerful, the air was fresh, and the food was delicious. There was nothing more they could ask for. Their outing had just begun yet they were already satisfied to the max.
"Oohhh!!"
"The heroes! The heroes are here!"
"Waah～! They're no match at all!"
And as they walked down the streets, all sorts of noises rang in their ears. One very eye-catching scenery in particular was a gathering of many people, cheering loudly and applauding every now and then. One which caught Marika's attention.
"Hm? What's that?" ［Marika］
"What do youー" ［Grey］
Grey couldn't even finish his words. As he turned his head to the direction Marika was pointing at, a familiar and embarrassing sight greeted them. Not only him, but Yuna was frozen as well, eyes filled with shock.
To make both Grey and Yuna tense up, what might it be? A terrifying monster? No! A horrible and grotesque sight? No! A terrible exhibition! Wrong again! It was... another play which depicted and exaggerated scenes of their exploits. One of their greatest embarrassments!
"Umm... Marika, let's goー" ［Grey］
"Big Brother Grey, Big Sister Yuna, let's watch it!" ［Marika］
Unfortunately for them, they were just a tad bit too late. Marika had already pointed towards the play, an excited and expectant look in her face. She was like an excited child, pointing at her favorite toy in a toy store.
"Can't we...?" ［Marika］
"N... No... We can..." ［Grey］
"Yaay～!" ［Marika］
And like parents who are just fools for their children, they had no choice but to agree. After all, the purpose of the trip was to keep their promise with her and expand her horizons. They would break both goals if they were to refuse.
Needless to say, it was a memorable experience for Grey and Yuna, in ways more than one. Be it the cringe, the shock, the embarrassment, or the over-exaggerated scenes. They would surely remember it all. It was a nightmare.
CHAPTER 242 END