Clack Clack Clang Clang
A series of metallic sounds echoed in the air. A young man stood in silence as he moved his hands flipping pans and turning the spatulas, the sound of flame burning ever so gently resounding along the tune.
Of course, that young man was none other than Grey who is cooking dish after dish for the day, adding bits of seasoning as he tasted the dishes he prepared. There was only silence as an appetizing and fragrant aroma wafted throughout the kitchen.
"Just a little bit of salt, and... Alright, that's perfect." ［Grey］
He stirred, he mixed, and he tasted. After he was satisfied with the taste of the soup, Grey continued stirring gently and soon lowered the heat of the flames. A few more clacks echoed as he prepared yet another set of kitchen utensils to cook another dish for the morning.
It has already been a few days since their first rice harvest at the Gallen village, and as usual, Grey started the day by cooking breakfast for him and Yuna. Everything was perfectー or at least, it would have been...
Poke Poke Poke
... It's just that there was a certain silver-haired elf who was poking his sides time and time again at regular intervals. She was pouting very cutely, puffing her cheeks and wearing sulky eyes, not uttering a single word.
"Umm... Yuna... Do you need something...?" ［Grey］
"Nothing..." ［Yuna］
Or so she says, but she has been bothering Grey ever since the morning started. At first, she was just staring from afar, but as time passed, she drew closer and closer until she was already behind him, poking and poking as she pouted.
Well, it wasn't just poking. Every time she finds that Grey's hands are free, she holds them tightly, only letting go when he needs to use them. Of course, she did such actions while still remaining silent.
"Umm... Yuna... Are you sure you don't need anything?" ［Grey］
"No..." ［Yuna］
Grey asked again, but the response was much shorter. Instead, Yuna stopped poking Grey's sides and full-on hugged him. He couldn't see her face anymore, but he knew full well that she was still pouting,
As for the reason, well... It's fairly simple. It was just another one of Yuna's moods where she asks for Grey's attention in any way she can. And strangely enough, even when she's doing such things, she still tries not to get in the way of Grey's work as much as she could. Truly contradictory.
"Yuna, umm... Would you like to help me prepare breakfast?" ［Grey］
"Eh?! Can I?!" ［Yuna］
"Of course. Let's cook together." ［Grey］
"Okay～!" ［Yuna］
And like any simple problem, there was a very simple solution. All Grey needed to do was invite her to cook with him and she beamed brighter than the sun itself. So bright in fact that Grey thought he was going blind.
After all, Yuna only wanted to spend time with Grey. As soon as Grey invited her, she quickly went ahead and grabbed her apron and a couple of kitchen stuff. She quickly returned, a bright smile blooming even brighter on her face.
'So cute... I just want to gobble her up... Hm?' ［Grey］
A sudden thought and a sudden pause. Grey's hands abruptly stopped as silence filled his mind. His eyes were shocked wide open as he examined what he just thought, unable to believe such a thought ran through his mind.
It wasn't the first such a thought occurred. In fact, such a thing has been occurring every so often lately. The more he fell for Yuna, the stronger his desire to monopolize her and just eat her up. Impure and wicked thoughts.
"Grey... Is something wrong?" ［Yuna］
"N-No... Nothing..." ［Grey］
To make things worse, Yuna's is shining brightly each and every time he thinks of such wicked thoughts. His heart is stabbed with arrows of guilt, like an undead purified by the holiness of Yuna's innocent smiles. It was too much to bear.
Grey really loves Yuna, but with such thoughts in his mind, he feels like an insatiable beast just waiting to pounce towards a (seemingly) harmless rabbit. It was a hard to control impulse, but thankfully, there was a solution to every problem.
"Yuna..." ［Grey］
"Hm? What is it?" ［Yuna］
"I love you." ［Grey］
"Wh-What are you saying in broad daylight! Y-You dummy!" ［Yuna］
Grey simply needs to reduce the intensity of the attacks and be purified by Yuna's cuteness. Seeing her adorable reactions cleanses his impure heart and brings him enlightenment he's newer felt before. Love truly is a strange thing.
Well, it was not a solution without any backlashes... For Yuna, that is. The young lady who was once brimming with radiance was now beet red and panicky, pounding on Grey's shoulders as she tried to hide her embarrassment, only stopping as she buried her face on his back.
"Mmn... I love you too, dummy..." ［Yuna］
Grey's heart was finally cleaned of all impurities and his mind is now clear as day. Without any wicked thoughts in his mind, his hands moved fast as lightning, chopping the vegetables and dicing the meat. Yet another appetizing scent wafted throughout the whole kitchen.
Shenanigans aside, Grey and Yuna finished cooking the dishes and they enjoyed a warm and delicious breakfast together. And as it was also the day they visited the Little Princess, they also made some sweets while they were at it.
Well, I say the Little Princess, but it is actually for the whole Royal Family. After all, one way or another, they always manage to find out when exactly they arrive in the castle and join in without any invitation. They were a very carefree bunch.
"Then, shall we head out now, Milady?" ［Grey］
"Un! Let's go!" ［Yuna］
Without further ado, Grey then reached one of his hands out and like any other time, a white gate of mana appeared before them. Extending his arm once more, they then got a hold of Yuna's hand and together, they went inside together.
The gentle light soon dissipated and contrary to their humble and quiet living room, the moment they opened their eyes, what greeted them was the grand and open Royal Castle, stone bricks laid out in the floors and walls all over the place.
Of course, the knights, maids, and servants also patrolled the place from time to time. Thankfully, Grey and Yuna knew exactly where to pop in and out. They didn't want anyone else to find out about their abilities, after all.
"One... Too... Free... Fou..," ［Natalia］
And that place was none other than the corridors near the Little Princess' quarters. It only took a few steps and the Little Princess' soft and adorable voice already echoed in the air, accompanied by the sweet symphony of the garden winds.
Just in time, they arrived as the Little Princess was undergoing early education. She is now counting the most basic of numbers, reciting them one after another. She was fumbling her words, but that only made her even cuter.
Knock Knock Knock
A classic triple knock resounded in the air and the Little Princess counting was cut off as soon the knocks reached their ears. Soon, footsteps resounded in the air, a lone figure approached the door, and finally, there was a pair of clack and creak.
"You've arrived, Your Highnesses. Good morning." ［Shasha］
"Good morning as well, Shasha... And good morning too, Little Princess." ［Grey］
"Waah～! Big Bro! Big Sis!" ［Natalia］
It was just like they had expected. As soon as the Little Princess saw them, she quickly hopped out of her seat and rushed towards Grey and Yuna, greeting them with a warm, little hug. A bright smile was blooming on her face.
Of course, there weren't just hugs. As Yuna lifted the Little Princess and carried her in her arms, the latter pecked her cheeks with a greeting kiss and after her was Grey's turn. A series of greetings ended by yet another tight embrace.
"Pardon the intrusion, Miss Shasha." ［Grey］
"Not at all, Your Highness. Her Highness is almost finished with her studies. There is no need to feel apologetic." ［Shasha］
"I see... Then, could we join you then?" ［Grey］
"Of course! Your Highnesses are more than welcome!" ［Shasha］
It wasn't the first time Grey and Yuna offered to help teach the Little Princess. In fact, they have been doing so every time they get, spending more time with her and they went about their day. They have become tutors once again.
Of course, as the Little Princess was still young and the topic was quite simple, they didn't resort to their spartan-style way of training. They may be strict, but they aren't monsters. They don't want to scare the Little Princess, after all.
Time passed by, and before long, the Little Princess finally finished her studies. Her handwriting may not be the best, but they were recognizable enough. For a two-year-old child, she was already outstanding.
"Hooh～! My granddaughter really is a genius, isn't she?" ［Ernes］
And from God-knows-where, the King had suddenly popped inside the Little Princess' room, joining them in as he invited himself. He was so silent one would think he was an assassin. He was actually quite frightening.
"Your Majesty... When did you arrive?" ［Grey］
"Oh, me? I arrived just now. No need to pay me any attention. Just continue on with whatever you're doing." ［Ernes］
Or so the King says, but it's not as easy as he puts it. After all, what kind of person could just ignore the King in the room who is now crouching as observed and doted on his granddaughter? It was simply absurd.
Fortunately, everyone was already used to the King's random shenanigans. They simply cleaned up after their study session, not batting an eye on him. He may be the King, but to be honest, he was just a royal pain in the ass. It was the Prime Minister who did all the work.
Clack Clack Clack
Speaking of the Prime Minister, a loud series of footsteps echoed from outside the Little Princess' quarters. They didn't even need to guess whom it belonged to as it was easily revealed as the doors were opened.
"Excuse me, is His Majesty here?" ［Anderson］
"Oh, hey, Anderson. How are you doing?" ［Ernes］
"Ah... I'm doing fine, Your Majeー No, that's not it! Your Majesty, please stop skipping work and get back to the office!" ［Anderson］
And there they go again. The moment the Prime Minister entered the Little Princess' room, yet another argument resounded in the air and the two highest-ranking figures of the Kingdom started bickering ever so loudly.
Normally, the Prime Minister is able to keep a calm head, but with a mountain-load of deadlines to be met, there is no time to compromise, he is going all out. It was a sight everyone has not gotten used to.
"Miss Shasha, can you help us set the table?" ［Yuna］
"Of course. It would be my pleasure." ［Shasha］
"Little Princess, let's just wait a little longer, alright?" ［Grey］
"Um! Nalia, wait!" ［Natalia］
In fact, they were so used to the scene that while the Prime Minister and the King argued, everyone else prepared the table for their snack time together. Plates were placed and drinks were poured. Perfect for a little tea party.
"Oh? You made some mango floats again?" ［Ernes］
"Your Majesty, please take this more seriously!" ［Anderson］
As for the King, he was simply adding more oil to the fire. The Prime Minister was already bursting with anger yet he was as calm as one can be, not faltering nor budging a single inch. He was confident as he had a special weapon on his side.
And what may that be a special weapon one might ask? It was simple, and no, it wasn't any type of sword or spear. Well, it isn't even sharp nor made of metal. Rather, it was the opposite. A very soft and adorable secret weapon.
"Gwampa, weaving...?" ［Natalia］
It was his very own granddaughter, the one and only Little Princess! Just a couple words from her paired with upturned eyes, and the Prime Minister took a critical hit to the heart. He may be tough, but he was weak to such cuteness.
"Umm... No... Princess Natalia... His Majesty needs to work, you see. I'm simply here to take him back to the office." ［Anderson］
"But... But Nalia wantsh play... Play wif Gwampa..." ［Natalia］
"Uhh... No... Umm... Princess Nataliaー" ［Anderson］
"Nalia, can't....?" ［Natalia］
There was no need to say any more words. The moment the Prime Minister was graced with the Little Princess' innocent and sparkling eyes, the fate of the battle was decided. It was finally over.
And behind the innocent Little Princess was a smiling devil who was happy as one can be. It didn't even cross his mind how despicable his actions were, using his own granddaughter for his benefit. The most wicked of all wicked men.
"Haah... I understand... And Your Majesty, please head back as soon as possible. You know how tight our schedule is." ［Anderson］
"Hahaha. I'll try, I'll try." ［Ernes］
"Haah... Your Majesty..." ［Anderson］
The King laughed boisterously and the Prime Minister frowned. He wanted to retort, but was simply out of energy. He didn't try thinking any more and simply left the Little Princess' room, the King smiling ever so merrily as he celebrated his petty victory.
"Now then, shall we get started then?" ［Ernes］
"Haah... You really are something, Your Majesty..." ［Grey］
"Hahaha! I'll be taking that as a compliment!" ［Ernes］
Not just the Prime Minister. Even Grey, Yuna, and Shasha couldn't help but frown at the King's wicked schemes and antics. They don't even have the energy to argue, simply ignoring him as they continue their preparations.
Time passed some more and like any other time, member after member of the Royal Family arrived one after another. Only Julius was missing as he still has school in the Royal Academy, otherwise, he would be there as well.
Shortcakes, poundcakes, macarons, mango floats, cookies, tarts, milkshakes, and many more. There was a large selection of sweets and refreshments atop the white table, everyone enjoying them with bright, smiling faces, the familiars sitting on their laps as they played around.
"Red! Wellow! Blue! Bwack!" ［Natalia］
And as she ate her sweets, the Little Princess pointed from dessert to dessert and named what colors there are to be found in them. Everyone was watching her with warm eyes as she demonstrated her intellectual prowess.
"Waah～! Amazing～! To think you already know all the colors!" ［Yuna］
"Nalia, mayshing?" ［Natalia］
"Un! Our Little Princess is a genius!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha! Of course! Who do you think our sweet Natalia takes after?!" ［Galleus］
Yuna praised the Little Princess, and the latter giggled cheerfully, proud of her little self. But even more proud than herself was her doting father, the Crown Prince, puffing his chest as he declared proudly how amazing his daughter was.
But as the colors were mentioned, one figure who would usually be in tune with the Crown Prince's antics, was now put in deep thought as he scratched his cheeks, trying to remember something that was already a distant topic from his mind.
"Ah, right! Speaking of colors... I almost forgot, but Grey, Yuna, do you have any interest in heading to Erdea?" ［Ernes］
"Erdea... Isn't that the city-state just north of Alfrione?" ［Yuna］
"That's right. I'm just curious is you have any plans on heading there," ［Ernes］
The King asked and Grey and Yuna wondered. With Sirius' help, what would take almost two weeks of travel from the capital would only take them a single day. If it's just traveling there, there is no problem with the idea.
The problem was what reason they had to travel there. They could simply head there any time convenient for them. In the beginning, it was strange for the King to suddenly bring up the topic.
"We don't... At least, not at the moment. Why do you ask, Your Majesty?" ［Grey］
"Well, I don't know if you remember him, but... Gerald, Erdea's mayor, is invited to head there. They'll soon be holding the 'Festival of Hearts', and he wanted you to attend as guests." ［Ernes］
"A festival?! We'll go! We'll go!" ［Yuna］
There wasn't even any need to think. As soon as Yuna heard the word "Festival", her eyes immediately beamed with excitement and her long ears flapped up and down, quick as one can be. She was brimming with enthusiasm.
Well, who wouldn't be? After all, the "Festival of Hearts" is also known as the most festive and colorful festival in the whole continent. A festival which people from all corners of the continent attend to celebrate love, peace, and happiness. A festival everyone wants to attend even once in their lives.
And it isn't just a normal festival. It was one which celebrates harmony between the countries in the continent, held every nine years to commemorate the end of the warring era. A testament to the unity between countries.
"Then, I guess the Royal Family is invited as well?" ［Grey］
"Of course. Every Royal Family in the continent is. It's a grand celebration, after all. One of the very best." ［Ernes］
"Grey, let's go! Let's go!" ［Yuna］
"My, Yuna sure is more fired up than usual." ［Talia］
With the words of the King, Yuna's eyes sparkled even brighter. She was so excited that her usually mature outer persona completely broke down and the child inside her jumped for joy. She was now as excited as the Little Princess was.
Well, Grey wasn't particularly against the idea. It just seemed strange to him that the King decided to bring up the topic now. It was only then that lightning struck his mind and the answer popped out of nowhere.
"Your Majesty... You just want to make use of my 'Gate', don't you?" ［Grey］
"Hahaha... I don't know what you mean..." ［Ernes］
"Haah... I knew it..." ［Grey］
Grey didn't even need to use his eyes. Judging by how the King reacted, he knew full well that he was right on the mark. The King simply wanted to ease their travels with the use of Grey's abilities. He was a crafty one, alright. Just not crafty enough.
Unfortunately for Grey, his curiosity isn't allowing him to miss such a rare opportunity. It only happens once every nine years, after all, and there was also the fact that Yuna was raring to go. There was no way he could just reject the invitation.
"Haah... Alright, we'll be going..." ［Grey］
"Yaay～! Grey, you're the bestest of the best!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha! I knew I could count on you!" ［Ernes］
"Yaay～! Besht of besht!" ［Natalia］
The moment Grey gave his word, the room was quickly filled with excitement, cheers and claps resounding in the air. Even the Little Princess, who didn't even understand what was happening, is happy. The Royal Family really is something.
"Oh, right. And while you're at it, please take Iris with you. This is a good chance to expand her horizons." ［Ernes］
"Eh?" ［Grey］
"Hm? Did I say something weird?" ［Ernes］
Grey was in shock, and wanted to retort, but remembering what happened just recently between the latter and the Prime Minister, his resolve quickly vanished. He'd rather just accept things silently than deal with the troublesome creature before him.
"Haah... Alright, fine..." ［Grey］
"I-I'll be in your care, Elder Brother Grey!" ［Iris］
"Yeah, just make sure to prepare all your things, alright?" ［Grey］
"Y-Yes!" ［Iris］
If there was anything to be glad about, it was that they were taking Iris with them, and not either of the princes. Grey was glad that the Princess Royal took after the Queen, otherwise, he could only imagine how terrifying it would be.
"Grey, do you have something a little sour?" ［Ernes］
"Your Majesty..." ［Grey］
Yep, he is really glad...
CHAPTER 252 END