The sky was the color of sweet honey, beautiful hues of amber and orange as the sun set over the far off horizon. The sea was painted with similar colors, waters of gold and rubies as the waves washed towards the sandy shores.
It was a peaceful scenery, the birds now perching as they retired for the day. The sound of shifting sands, popping bubbles, and whispering winds dancing in the air, free like the fish in the sea. A subtle and tranquil melody wafted through the beach.
A beautiful symphony which lulled the children to sleep as they basked under the fading sunlight. Each and every were knocked out and exhausted, snoring ever so peacefully as they enjoyed the warmth and security of their parents' arms.
"Fufufu! Look how adorable our granddaughter is～!" ［Talia］
"Haha. Of course she is, who do you think she takes after?" ［Ernes］
"Oh my, I wonder too～." ［Talia］
The King and Queen chuckled and giggled softly as they observed the Little Princess' sweet sleeping faces. She was already the sweetest angel there is, and now that she was sleeping, she was even more adorable, melting one's heart at a single glance.
And it wasn't only the Little Princess. Most of the children were sleeping soundly, tired from all the games they played yesterday and today. The ones energetic balls of energy were now sleeping little angels, some even mumbling one their sleep.
"Liz, are you sure you don't want to sleep?" ［Elise］
"Un... I'm not reallyー fuwahh～... Not sleepy at all..." ［Eliza］
Of course, there were also ones who are doing their best to fight against exhaustion, trying to keep their eyes open even when they were already drowsy, their heads bobbing up and down, time and time again.
"Liz, it's okay to sleep on my shoulder, you know?" ［Elise］
"No... I want to talk more with Elder Sister..." ［Eliza］
"... I see... Nothing we can do about that then..." ［Elise］
Though, if the young lady were to put it like that, there was nothing she could say about it anymore. After all, she too wants to spend as much time as possible with her and their father. It was a rare opportunity, after all.
"Mmn... Elise, no... Don't eat that... That's my lunch..." ［Elaine］
"Hehehe... Fritz smiled at me... Hehehe..." ［Eleanora］
Though it would have been better if her cousin and her mother weren't also sleeping on her other shoulder and lap immediately. She doesn't even know what kinds of things they were dreaming about. She could only imagine.
As for everyone else, Grey and Yuna are already starting to take them home one after another, opening gates again and again as they made sure everyone got home safely, making sure everything was accounted for.
The waves turned once more and another gate opened along the coast again. Two figures came out of the gate, turning their heads for a little bit, only stopping as soon as they found the Landevars, nodding subtly as soon as they did.
"Liz... It seems like it's time for us to go as well." ［Fritz］
"Mmn...? Already...?" ［Eliza］
"Unfortunately, yes... But don't worry too much. We'll see them again during the Founding Festival. Let's cheer up, alright?" ［Fritz］
"Uuu... Okay..." ［Eliza］
There was reluctance in her eyes, but there was only so much she could do about it. Fortunately, they now had phones with them and could call each other any time they wanted. It wasn't as lonely as before.
"Mother, Elder Sister, Elder Sister Elaine, see you next time～!" ［Eliza］
"Everyone, take care of yourselves, alright? And Elise, make sure to watch over your mother. You know how she can be sometimes." ［Fritz］
"Hey! What's that supposed to mean, Dear?!" ［Eleanora］
"Hmm... I'll tell you next time... Maybe..." ［Fritz］
A few goodbye hugs and kisses later, and it was finally time for them to say their farewells. As Fritz and Eliza waved their hands goodbye, they stepped foot into the light, soon disappearing into thin air.
Time passed some more and it was finally time for the Royal Capital folks to head home as well. First to go was Elaine, next were Eleanora and Elise, then Amelia, and finally, there was the Royal Family who wanted to savor the wonderful view as much as they could.
As soon as they arrived at the Royal Castle, everyone quickly scattered to their rooms after saying their goodbyes. Both the young princesses escorted to their rooms to finally have their rest, leaving only the King to chat with the two.
"That was quite the fun experience, you two. If you're planning on holding one again anytime soon, you are always welcome to invite us." ［Ernes］
"Fufufu! Maybe next time, Your Majesty." ［Yuna］
"Yeah, but... We're not sure His Honor will allow it..." ［Grey］
"And who said we'll tell him? This will be a secret between the three of us. Anderson will not hear a thing." ［Ernes］
"Hear what exactly. Your Majesty?" ［Anderson］
It was all too sudden. Before the King even noticed, the Prime Minister had already grabbed ahold of his shoulder, wearing a dark expression on his face. His lips were smiling, but his smiles weren't. A smile of ominous foreboding.
After all, contrary to the King who was fully enjoying himself with the wonderful sight, food, and games, the Prime Minister was burdened with the responsibility of running the whole Kingdom, alone. It was by no means easy... It was hell.
"O-Oh, Anderson! How have you been? You look more handsome than before, much younger too! Have you taken some sort of miracle potion?" ［Ernes］
"Please spare me the flattery, Your Majesty. No matter what you do, I won't let you go. We still have some paperwork to finish." ［Anderson］
"H-Hey, Anderson... I've just returned from our outing and I'm still exhausted. That's not a funny joke, you know?" ［Ernes］
"Hahaha. Do I seem like I'm joking, Your Majesty?" ［Anderson］
The King tried to play it off as a joke, but the Prime Minister's smile only bloomed even darker, his grip on the former's shoulder getting tighter and stronger, not giving the King a chance to escape or even think about it.
The King's fate is now sealed, a smiling demon rendering him weak and hopeless as it dragged him towards their office where a mountain-load of paperwork was waiting for him. Despair was painted on his face.
"Well then, if you would please excuse us, Your Highnesses. I hope you enjoy the rest of your lovely day together." ［Anderson］
"Y-Yeah... Keep up the good work..." ［Grey］
"Hahaha. Rest assured, Your Highness. We will... We will..." ［Anderson］
"Noooo! Grey, Yuna, help meeee!" ［Ernes］
A smile still plastered on his face, the Prime Minister headed to the throne room with the King in tow behind him. A subtle scritch resounded in the air as the latter was being dragged away, his face already in tears as he imagined what awaits him.
As for the two who were left, they were still completely dumbfounded about what just happened, watching the other two as they vanished from their sight. Now that there were just the two of them left, if felt rather a little lonely,
"Then, should we say our final farewells as well, Milady?" ［Grey］
"Fufufu! I was thinking of the same thing too, Sir Grey." ［Yuna］
"My, it seems that we have a lot in common, don't we?" ［Grey］
Playful and cheerful as one can be, Grey and Yuna entered a gate once more, to be greeted yet again by the setting sun over the horizon. The shore, the sea, and the amber sky crowning them, everything was still beautiful as ever.
As compared to before, the beach was now cleaned off the mess they made, back to its former, gem-like self. The only things left standing were the huts and sheds Grey and Yuna built, structures which the Chiefdom could use whenever and however they wanted. Some gifts of sorts.
They haven't gone home yet, yet they already felt like they would miss the place very much. Especially the salty breeze which greeted them every morning in their short but ever so eventful stay along the sea.
"Big Brother Grey, Big Sister Yuna..." ［Marika］
And as they admired the view, footsteps echoed along with the shifting sands, a soft and downhearted voice echoing soon after as three familiar figures appeared before them. There was the Great Chief, Marika, and Sakar.
"Are you going home already, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna?" ［Manelo］
"Well... Sadly, yeah... We're finished with our quest, after all. We just dropped by to say goodbye." ［Grey］
"I see... That does make sense..." ［Manelo］
It was a short-lived conversation, awkwardness looming in the air. Grey and Yuna have already said goodbyes countless times yet it didn't make it any easier. It was still hard to find a topic to talk about.
Especially Marika. Though she was much more composed than Eliza from before, her crestfallen expression says it all. As for the Great Chief and Sakar, they were the same as ever, serious and able to keep themselves level-headed.
A few moments passed, and the sun continued to set over the horizon. Yet despite all the changes, they still stood on the sandy beach, not a single word echoing in the air. They could only fidget as they tried to find the right words to say, Grey scratching his left cheek in silence.
However, no matter how much time passed, neither Grey nor Yuna could think of things to talk about. If there was one thing, Grey remembered something he almost forgot about, reaching out to his "Inventory" and getting a hold of a certain something.
"Right... Marika, here." ［Grey］
"Wa-Wa-Wa-Waah!" ［Marika］
Grey tossed that certain something to the air and had Marika catch it, it went just like how one would expect it. Though Marika did catch it, it was not after juggling it back and forth with a panicked expression on her face, finally catching it after embracing it with both hands, sighing with relief at the end.
And what might that certain something be? Simple, it was yet another cellphone Grey made in his free time as they prepared everything for the outing. A simple yet useful tool they wanted to gift everyone.
"Hm...? What's this...?" ［Marika］
"That's a cellphone, and well... Rather than explaining, I think it's much better if we just show you how it works." ［Grey］
The others tilting their head in confusion, Grey took out their personal phone and headed a little ways over the distance. And before long, a ring echoed in the silent beach, making Marika flinch and panic once again.
A quick demonstration later, and everyone's faces turned from contusion to that of surprise and amazement, everyone's eyes sparkling with curiosity and excitement as they tried to figure out just what the little magic tool in their hands were.
"B-Big Brother Grey! Big Sister Yuna! Th-This is amazing!" ［Marika］
"How does this thing work?! Are there little spirits inside?!" ［Manelo］
"As expected of the Great Emissaries! This must be the work of God!" ［Sakar］
It was not just curiosity and excitement, there was also a little bit of idolization and a hint of worshiping. It was a little bit tiring but it was not like it was the first time they were subjected to such. It was... a little bit concerning, to say the least.
Well, it may be a little overwhelming, but it was much better than the awkward mood from before. The conversation could finally flow smoothly again, smiles and laughter echoing in the air as everyone chatted ever so happily.
"Then, I guess this is goodbye for now, everyone. We'll be dropping by from time to time. We still have a lot to see here, after all." ［Grey］
"Un! See you next time everyone. Make sure to call us from time to time, okay? Got it? Make sure that you do, okay?!" ［Yuna］
"Yes! We'll call lots and lots!" ［Marika］
The sun setting behind them, the soft winds blowing the white sands away, and the stars appearing on the sky one after another. Two figures faded into the light, waving their hands as they vanished into nothingness.
Yet despite them going away, leaving only three figures on the beach. There was no sort of loneliness nor sadness, only bright smiles as they headed back home, leaving passing footprints in the sand.
"Papa, what would you like to have for dinner today?" ［Marika］
"Oh? You'll be cooking something? That's... quite rare... Is there an occasion I should know about?" ［Manelo］
"Fufufu! Nothing. Nothing at all." ［Marika］
Or so she says, yet the sun has already set and the smile on her face is still yet to face. There was only happiness in her face as she held dearly the phone Grey and Yuna gave her as if it was the most precious thing in the world.
The day was already over but the waves continued to toss and the clouds continued to drift in the night sky. The nightly breeze blew past the nearby forest as the small critters sang the night away with their lovely serenade for the moon above,
...
The room was silent, not a single chatter to be heard, only the whispering winds as they playfully passed along the tables and chairs. There was no movement, only darkness as the rooms slumbered in peace.
Suddenly, there was light, and what came after light were various sounds as a gate of light appeared out of thin air, two familiar figures heading out of it soon after. Figures which only had bright and satisfied smiles on their faces.
"Yaay～! We're finally home～!" ［Yuna］
A merry voice chimed all over the house as Yuna cheerfully raised her hands in the air, smiling ever so brightly as she rushed towards one of their sofas, diving straight towards it without even removing her boots.
"Yuna, don't just jump in suddenly. You'll get sand on the sofas." ［Grey］
"Ehh～? But that's too troublesome... Just this once, please～?" ［Yuna］
"Haah... Really..." ［Grey］
Lo and behold, Yuna has entered spoiled mode once again, puffing her cheeks as she pleaded cutely towards Grey. To which, the latter could only have a lengthy and exasperated sigh, unable to argue.
Thankfully, there was this wonderful thing called magic. With just a flick of his finger, Grey quickly got rid of the sand they brought along, taking them outside with help from the passing winds, observing cleanliness once again.
"Anyway, Yuna, what should we have for dinner?" ［Grey］
"Hmm... Dinner, huh... I really don't feel like eating right now..." ［Yuna］
Grey asked and Yuna answered. What followed soon after as silence swallowed the air, Grey frozen as he took off his boots. He looked at Yuna with eyes full of surprise, confusion, and suspicion, his mind thrusted towards deep thought.
"Y... You... Who are you?! What did you do to my girlfriend?!" ［Grey］
"Hey! That's just mean! Just what do you think of me, Grey?! I'm not that much of a glutton, you know?!" ［Yuna］
"And to think you can even imitate her manner of speaking and her subtle actions... What sort of sorcery is this?! Who sent you?!" ［Grey］
"Grey... You... That's enough! Come here, you meanie! I'll teach you a lesson! Let's see if you can still say that after I hit you with some ice magic!" ［Yuna］
Things escalated quickly, and soon, little snowballs flew one after another. However, no matter how plentiful they were, not a single one hit Grey as he easily dodged them with skill and grace, nimble as one can be.
Of course, Yuna was just playing along Grey's bit, her snowballs even weaker than what children would throw. After all, if she was even a little serious, not just the living room, the whole house would get thrashed without effort. It would be a spectacle to say the very least.
The playful snowballs were thrown and Grey continued to dodge without breaking a single sweat, inching closer and closer with the passing of time. Soon, he arrived in front of Yuna, a confident smile plastered on his face.
"You're cornered now, Miss Imposter. There's nowhere to run." ［Grey］
"Kugh... What are you going to do to me?" ［Yuna］
"Why, of course, it would be a punishment!" ［Grey］
And a punishment it wasー or at least how he phrased it. But rather than something flashy, Grey simply neared Yuna and before the latter could even notice, he pressed his lips against her cheeks, giving her a sweet and short kiss. A kiss which painted the young lady's face a rosy tint.
"Justice has been served." ［Grey］
"Uuu... Grey, you meanie... You're always teasing me..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. I'm afraid I don't know what you mean, Milady. If that's already teasing... Then what would this be called?" ［Grey］
Grey leaned in towards Yuna once again, and pressed her lips on her like before. But rather than the cheeks, this time, Grey sealed the young lady's lips, preventing her from speaking any further. Silence swallowed the room.
The once rosy cheeks had now turned a fierce and burning red color as her heart raced like lightning bolts streaking across the stormy skies. A beet red face revealed to Grey as their lips separated, a thin, transparent line forming between them.
"Hahaha. You really are the cutest, Yuna." ［Grey］
"Uuu... Grey... I really hate this side of you..." ［Yuna］
Or so she says, but her face only continued to burn redder and redder, reaching all the way to the tip of her pointy ears. Grey, on the other hand, could only be seen smiling, heart full of satisfaction as he watched his dearest beloved get embarrassed, heart racing just as fast as hers.
After all, though it was true that they were together most of the time, during the past several days, they have been busy preparing things that they couldn't even flirt like they usually do. It was just too busy.
However, such is no longer the case now. Now that there was nothing holding them back, Grey is now in all-out attack mode, grabbing every chance he gets, making himself fall even harder for her as the sands of time continue to fall.
'My girlfriend really is the cutest, isn't she?' ［Grey］
Such a question circling his mind and chuckling to himself, Grey took a seat beside Yuna and slowly but surely crawled his hands towards Yuna's until he held her tight. Though the latter was surprised, she didn't shy away and accepted him, holding his hands just as tightly.
There was silence in the air, only the subtle sounds of hearts beating resounding ever so harmoniously. Yuna then leaned her head on Grey's shoulder and wrapped her slender arms around his. A rosy atmosphere loomed over them.
"Grey, I love you..." ［Yuna］
"Hm? Why so suddenly?" ［Grey］
"I don't know... I just wanted to say it..." ［Yuna］
"I see..." ［Grey］
Grey's voice sounded calm, but the same couldn't be said for his heart. As Yuna's words rang inside his ears, his heart only pumped louder and faster, a faint trace of red finally appearing on his face.
"I love you too, Yuna... More than anything in the world..." ［Grey］
His voice was calm and quiet as it skipped along the cold, nightly breeze. Yuna's ears flapped a little at his words, but not a single word drifted in the air. There was only a little bit of surprise as Yuna's grip loosened a little.
It may be because of all the work she did over the past several days, or maybe due to playing with the kids most of the time, or even just because, before Grey even noticed, a soft snuffle echoed in the air. The young lady has fallen asleep.
"Oh, dear... She must have been very tired..." ［Grey］
Said Grey as he grabbed a blanket from his "Inventory", draping it over the sleeping Yuna. He wanted to poke her adorable sleeping face so badly, but decided to hold himself back for the time being. He is still more or less a gentleman, after all.
'I should probably carry her to the bedroom, shouldー' ［Grey］
Groowwwllllll
Grey couldn't even finish his thoughts when a certain, familiar sound reverberated in his ears. And the source was none other than the sleepingー or rather, previously sleeping Yuna, face now beet red from embarrassment.
"Grey... I think we should have dinner, after all..." ［Yuna］
The young lady couldn't even open her eyes in embarrassment, only wanting to dig a hole and hide inside it, holding Grey's hand subconsciously as she thought about how embarrassing it was. She is a fine lady, after all.
"Puha... Puhaha... Hahaha! What was that about?!" ［Grey］
"Grey! You're laughing too much! Everybody gets hungry, you know?!" ［Yuna］
"Well, yeah... Haha.. That's true, but... Haha... It's just too funny... Hahaha!" ［Grey］
"Uuu...! Fine! Laugh all you want! You're always like that anyway!" ［Yuna］
"Now, now, don't say that. No matter what happens, my Yuna will still be the cutest in the whole world. Right～?" ［Grey］
"Hmph! I'm not listening!" ［Yuna］
A little bit of arguing, a little bit of teasing, and a whole lot of flirting, in just a split second, the atmosphere in the house had become lively once again, all sorts of expressions painting the place with life and colors.
The night only got deeper and soon, a delicious smell wafted through the air as they enjoyed a merry meal together. Smiles and laughter were all over the place, a tranquil night was no more.
CHAPTER 249 END