The sun was high up in the sKy and the winds whistled as they passed by. The city continued to hustle and bustle, people running left and right as they went about the latter half of their day, humming along as they looked forward to going home.
In such a busy city, a few figures could be found loitering around with no particular destination in mind, walking towards wherever their feet take them, eyes wandering left, right, up, and down along the tunes of a soothing voice.
"To the right, we could see the first ever brewery in town. It was a simple tavern at first, but as you can see, it has grown to be quite a reputable shop after two hundred years of history." ［Garret］
"Two hundred years... And to think they still stand to this day. Their alcohol must be quite delectable for them to last so long." ［Iris］
"Of course. It's one of the best in the city. Especially their Silverstone Mead. It is often called the best mead in the continent!" ［Garret］
The afternoon had already arrived and everyone was still continuing their tour around the city. Erdea is quite big, after all. Even after several hours of touring, they barely covered half of the area, still a lot more to go.
As for Garret's gang, they were no longer with. After they visited Marcus' family's honey farm, they then headed to Olsen's family's relaxation shop where they fully experienced the greatness of calming scents and massages, fatigue simply melting away from their bodies.
And just in time, as lunch arrived, they then headed to John's family's restaurant which served one of the most delectable dishes they had ever eaten. They had a total blast tasting all sorts of flavors and the taste of Erdea.
But such fun didn't last for too long. As it stands, everyone still had to help out in their family business, and so, after lunch, they headed out their own ways, leaving Grey and company to their own devices, continuing their tour with smiles on their faces.
"This here is one of the biggest horse stables in the city. They have the best horses around here. Should we have a ride?" ［Garret］
"Uh... Garret, I'll pass on that one..." ［Grey］
"Me too. I don't want to see the world spinning again..." ［Yuna］
Of course, like any other city, there were also horse stables around. Garret offered for them to ride around the place for some time, but Grey and Yuna quickly refused it without a second. They still clearly remember last year's tragedy.
They may be heroes who can solo high-rank monsters, but even they have their own weaknesses. They could ride dragons and soar through the clouds, but the rough and rowdy horses aren't meant for them. They'd rather go on foot if they have a choice.
"How about you, Your Highness? Wouldn't you like to try horse riding?" ［Garret］
"I would also like to decline. I'm not really good with horses, per se." ［Iris］
"I see... It's a shame, but we don't need to force ourselves." ［Garret］
And luckily enough, it seems like Iris wasn't also one fond of horses. She may be royalty, but horse riding was one of her greatest weaknesses. She shared the same sentiment to the two, albeit for different reasons.
"Boss, Lady Boss, are you sure you really don't wantー" ［Garret］
"Ah! Garret, what's that? I've never seen them before." ［Grey］
"Hm? Where?" ［Garret］
"Over there, just a little bit on the left. That red little thing." ［Grey］
"Oh! I see it too! It's so tiny!" ［Yuna］
Garret was quite persistent, but Grey and Yuna were simply too crafty for him. He couldn't even finish his words when Grey suddenly pointed at a certain something which happened to catch his eyes.
Soon, Yuna also joined the fray and aided Grey in distracting him. Soon, the young man was made to explain the red little thing, a radiant smile on his face, happy to answer their questions. They felt a little guilty, but it was necessary. Crisis averted.
The tour soon continued and all sorts of wonderful sights greeted their eyes. There were a ton of establishments big and small, coming in all shapes and colors. The children ran around all over the place, chasing each other as they played tag. It really was a lively city.
Of course, as they toured around, Grey didn't forget to snap some pictures to serve as memories. It was a little tiring explaining it to Garret at first, but he quickly got it after a quick demonstration. Tons and tons of pictures were taken.
"And here we are. Our final destination. The Marble Gardens!" ［Garret］
Before long, they finally arrived at their last destination for the day located up north the city. Garret saved the best for last, a proud smile blooming on his face as he led everyone inside, a sweet and calming fragrance greeting them.
"Waah～... So many flowers... They're all so beautiful..." ［Iris］
"You can say that again. It's like we're in paradise." ［Grey］
The flower fields outside were already beautiful enough to rival the starry night, but what was inside the garden was even more so. So beautiful that it would leave one speechless, simply admiring the view as their subtle footsteps echoed in the air.
It wasn't like any normal garden. There weren't just flowers dominating the garden, but trees, vines, bushes and all sorts of beautiful things popping up here and there, resembling a small forest which was brimming with beauty and tranquility.
"Waah～! So many! There are even ones I haven't seen yet! Wait, are these magic plants?! There's magic plants as well?!" ［Yuna］
Tranquilly which was soon broken by a very, very excited Yuna. The moment she saw such a sight filled with flowers, herbs, and magic plants, her alchemist side quickly dominated herself, eyes sparkling brighter than the sun above.
She was so excited, she didn't even care about anything else and zoomed here and there as she observed the plants with great interest. She was especially interested in the ones she hasn't seen before, wanting to pluck them so that she could study them.
"Just a little bit won't hurtー Uuu!" ［Yuna］
"Yuna, stop that. These aren't ours, you know?" ［Grey］
Thankfully, Grey was there to keep an eye on her, sending a very light chop to the head to stop her frenzy. After all, her "a little bit" is not what it seems at all. Once she starts, she will go all out and start going on a material collection frenzy.
"Uuu... I was just going to get a little bit... Just a petal..." ［Yuna］
"A petal from each flower, right?" ［Grey］
"N... No... Only a tiny bit..." ［Yuna］
"And how 'tiny' exactly are we talking about? You're not going to uproot all of them just to use them in alchemy, won't you?" ［Grey］
Yuna tried to reason her way out, but Grey knew her far too well. She also tried to act cute and all, but Grey won't budge on the matter, simply ignoring her pleas with a heart as cold as ice. Strict mode on.
It was only natural. After all, the Marble Gardens is one of the most known attractions in Erdea. They can't have damaged plants and flowers all over the garden simply because of a certain silver-haired elf's whim. It would be a disaster.
"Don't worry, Lady Boss! We have a lot of these plants in the manor. We could just ask Dad to give us some!" ［Garret］
"Really?! I won't be holding back, you know?" ［Yuna］
"Of course! You can ask as much as you can! I'm sure Dad would be happy to help you out as well! He's your fan, after all!" ［Garret］
"Garret, don't encourage her. She will only get more bold if you spoil her." ［Grey］
Or so he says, but in reality, he was the one who spoiled Yuna the most. The very reason why Yuna has been spoiled rotten, Not only is he overprotective, he was very doting as well, more like a father rather than a lover.
In fact, even now, he was thinking of a way to make different flowers for Yuna with the use of plant magic. They may take some time, but he had already marked it in his mental notes. Oh, the sweet, sweet irony.
"Iris, listen, we'll be asking Lord Gerald later for flowers, would you like some as well? I heard they have some golden dahlias here." ［Yuna］
"Golden dahlias? I want to see them too." ［Iris］
"It's decided then! Let's ask Lord Gerald during dinner!" ［Yuna］
Their choice was quickly decided and their hearts were filled with excitement. Yuna was especially enthusiastic, thinking of all sorts of things she'll see in the manor's gardens and greenhouses. She especially looked forward to the magic plants.
Shenanigans aside, their tour continued around the garden and they saw all sorts of flowers blooming and vines swinging. There were also sweet berries and juicy apples free to be picked which they enjoyed very much.
Other than that, they also viewed the rare specimens grown inside the greenhouses. There were multicolored roses, tulips which looked like they were burning, and even flowers which looked like delicate, blue snowflakes, transparent and beautiful.
"Grey! Grey! Look at this plant! It looks so funny!" ［Yuna］
"Hm? What is... A dogー No, a horse...?" ［Grey］
"Un! It's a gorilla and a horse! A doghorse!" ［Yuna］
Well, there weren't just beautiful flowers. There were also silly-looking ones which were just there to make them laugh. Especially the flowers which looked like a dog and a horse at the same time. It made Yuna's stomach laugh from laughing.
"Yuna, which flower do you think is the most beautiful around here?" ［Grey］
"Mmn... It's hard to choose... Do I really have to? They all look so pretty,.." ［Yuna］
"Of course. There can't be two 'most beautiful' flowers now, can there? Well, you can just choose which one you like the most." ［Grey］
Of course, Grey didn't miss a beat and took the chance to ask Yuna which flowers she likes and which were her favorites. He could use them as a reference for later when the time comes he'll have to propose to her.
And surprisingly, rather than saying she liked all the flowers, Yuna actually thought long and hard, having a hard time picking between all the beautiful flowers before her. Her serious, thinking face was cute too.
"Then I choose this one!" ［Yuna］
"Oh? A carinella? I didn't know you liked them that much." ［Grey］
"Of course! It may look simple, but it can be used in making a lot of potions, you know? Just imagine the possibilities!" ［Yuna］
Of course, it wasn't just as easy as it seems. Grey had almost forgotten, but Yuna was one heck of an alchemy maniac. She doesn't just see the flowers by how pretty they were, but also their usefulness in her alchemy work.
"Grey, why are you asking? Do you want to improve your alchemy too?" ［Yuna］
"No, I was just curious. Maybe next time." ［Grey］
"Don't be like that. Let's do alchemy together!" ［Yuna］
And now, Yuna's mind was gearing into alchemy. She had a blindingly bright smile on her face as she tried to persuade Grey into pursuing alchemy with her. She was very happy buzzing like a merry bee all over her boyfriend.
Alchemy talks aside, they continued their tour and looked all around the place. As the fourth bell rang throughout the whole city, they also had a small picnic, relishing in the gentle winds and eating the tastiest treats to waste their time away.
Soon, the sky turned amber and the city's bustle slowly died down. As the sun started to sink down the faraway horizon, shops and stalls slowly closed one after another as people went back to their own homes, streetlights illuminating slowly and surely.
"Time passed by so quickly... I didn't think it's already evening,.." ［Grey］
"Right～? But we really did have a lot of fun today. It's been such a blast going around the city. What do you think, Iris?" ［Yuna］
"I-I think so as well! I had so much fun spending time with Elder Sister Yuna and Elder Brother Grey!" ［Iris］
"Fufufu! You're so cute, Iris～! Here, let me give you a hug!" ［Yuna］
However, despite the darkness slowly creeping in the vast sky, there were only bright smile to be seen blooming in everyone's faces. They enjoyed the day very much, learning all sorts of new things and meeting many people.
Especially Iris. She had gone around different cities before, but it was the first time she explored on foot and visited so many establishments, not caring about the eyes of the public. She finally understood why her older brothers liked sneaking out of the castle. The city was so much fun.
"Well, we wouldn't have so much fun if it weren't for our reliable tour guide. Thanks a lot, Garret. We really owe you this one." ［Grey］
"Thank you, Garret! It was a lot of fun!" ［Yuna］
"Thank you very much, Lord Garret. This is the most fun I've had for a long time. I can't express how thankful I am." ［Iris］
"Hahaha. I'm just doing my job, but I'm really happy that you think so." ［Garret］
Everyone expressed their gratitude one after another, and Garret received them warmly with a large smile on his face, extending ear to ear. He also had a lot of fun hanging out with everyone, proud that they think so highly of Erdea.
Of course, as his tour guiding duties were now finished, he finally returned to his usual self, acting more casually all the while forgoing the formal speech he has been using most of the day. Casual was still best.
"Oh! I almost forgot. There's still something I want to show you." ［Garret］
Said Garret, out of the blue. The tour was already over, but as he looked up to the amber sky, he suddenly remembered a spot he often frequents. It's a spot not many know, but he still wanted to show it to them before ending the day.
They walked and they walked some more, soon arriving at one of the clock towers present in the city. It was high and mighty, standing a couple dozen meters proudly, overseeing the town with a large clock attached in the center, arms running slowly ast time ticked and tocked.
Clang Clang Clang
The sound of metal drifted in the air as footsteps struck the metal stairs. Each step, they climbed higher and higher, excitement brewing in their hearts as they wondered just what kind of surprise awaited them at the top.
"Just a little bit more. We're almost there." ［Garret］
Four, three, two, one. The flight of stairs was climbed higher and higher, golden light seeping through the windows as they climbed. The moment they arrived at the top, a sight of wonders greeted them. A land illuminated by gold.
"Welcome to my paradise!" ［Garret］
As Garret's voice echoed in the air, a wondrous sight was reflected in their eyes and engraved in their eyes. Everyone was speechless and in awe as they watched the scene unfold, the sun setting in the far horizon, slowly but surely.
The Obelisk of Covenant, the Marble Gardens, the high walls, the manor, and even the flower fields outside the city. They could see everything from the top, like the free birds flying in the sky, the silent wind blowing past their ears.
A sight of red, blue, green, and many more expanded as far as the eyes could see. What was once an iridescent treasure trove was now dyed the color of soft gold and sweet amber, precious moments fading away by the sands of time.
"So beautiful..." ［Iris］
Two simple words drifted afloat in the air, carried by the gentle evening breeze as the princess stood atop the clock tower. Her eyes sparkled a beautiful sheen, a soft smile forming on her lips as her golden hair fluttered in the wind.
Silence soon took over and as the sky turned black, it was finally time to head back home. The stars now reigned over the sky and the moon reigning over them. Gentle light showered the lands as the city slowly drifted into sleep.
Yet despite the darkness looming over them, the city continued to shine like a bright gem under the moonlight. The streets were filled with colors as street lamps shined the color of the rainbow. It really is the city of colors, through and through.
"Oh, Your Highnesses, you're back. How was your day?" ［Gerald］
"It was a lot of fun! We ate all sorts of treats and also visited many wonderful sights. Erdea is really beautiful." ［Yuna］
"I couldn't agree more. Not only that, the people were also very friendly. No wonder it's called the city of peace. Erdea really lives up to its name." ［Grey］
"Hahaha! I'm extremely delighted to hear that." ［Gerald］
As they went back to the mansion, a warm greeting welcomed them with everyone asking how their day went about. The parents were especially very happy when they heard Garret did a job well done. Their troublemaker of a son has finally grown up.
"Well, let's not waste any more time now. I have already asked our chefs to prepare the best dishes they could. It's time for dinner." ［Gerald］
"Oh? The best dishes, huh... We're looking forward to it." ［Grey］
"Oh, please do. I'm sure their food won't disappoint." ［Gerald］
"That's right. Especially their braised pork stew. I hope you have a taste of it. It's the pride and joy of our kitchen." ［Cynthia］
There was no time to waste. With everyone looking forward to dinner, they all headed towards the dining hall, and soon enough, dinner was served in a beautiful manner, all sorts of dishes displayed atop the table.
There was fish, steaks, soups, and a lot more. And as they previously said, all were very delectable, flavors exploding in their mouths like firecrackers. Some were rich while some were mild, but all were delicious nonetheless.
They chatted their time away, laughter and giggles flying over the dining table. The night went deeper and plates were emptied time and time again. Soon, it was time for everyone to retire, everyone heading to their own rooms to waste the night away,
Of course, Grey and Yuna also went to their own room, a room of darkness engulfed by the light as they flipped the switch on. They have just arrived but the bed already started inviting them over. A soft and comfortable paradise.
"Yuna... We still need to change..." ［Grey］
"No... Just a little longer." ［Yuna］
And just like Grey had expected, Yuna quickly became clingy the moment they were alone together. They have been with others throughout the whole day so she really didn't have a choice, but now was different. She didn't need to hold back anymore.
The very moment Grey closed the door, she quickly embraced him from the front and held her head near his chest, feeling his heartbeats. She didn't care if Grey was a bit sweaty, all she wanted was to hold him tight, recharging her power.
"Yuna, let's change first, yeah? I might smell, you know?" ［Grey］
"I don't care. Grey's smell is calming. I love it." ［Yuna］
"Well... How about you let go for a minute. Then after we change, we could cuddle all you want. Sounds good?" ［Grey］
"No. We could still cuddle even if we don't change." ［Yuna］
Grey tried to compromise, but Yuna wouldn't budge. She was now pouting, tightening her embrace on him like a little child who doesn't want to let go of her parents leaving for work. Her clinginess has reached its limit.
Of course, it wasn't good for Grey at all. He had already been holding himself back throughout the whole day, and now, he was barely able to control his desires. One more push and the final string of reason would be at risk of snapping.
"Grey, I love you." ［Yuna］
And so, the final string did snap. As Yuna's sweet voice rang throughout his ears, he finally lost all sense of reason and the beast inside of him had awakened. His eyes which were once full of hesitation and worry are now burning fiercely with passion.
"Yuna, just remember, you brought this upon yourself." ［Grey］
"Hm? What do youー kyaa!" ［Yuna］
Yuna couldn't even finish her words when Grey suddenly lifted her up into his arms, all the while creating a sound-isolating barrier to envelop the whole room. Before long, Yuna was already lying on the bed, pinned down by her beloved.
She couldn't even enjoy the softness and comfort of the bed. All she could feel was the intense passion radiating from Grey's fierce eyes which now looked like that of a starved beast, ready to pounce in his prey.
"Yuna, really you... You should learn how to read the atmosphere... Do you know how much I've been holding myself back? If you suddenly come to me acting all cute and adorable like that... Just what do you think would happen?" ［Grey］
"E-Eh?! Grey, wait! Wait! I'm still sweaty from our walk! Let's change first! No, let's at least take a bath, okay?!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. It's too late for that now, my dear. I don't think I can wait any longer." ［Grey］
Oh, how the tables have turned. With the beast now awakened and starved, Yuna could no longer run away from the consequences of her actions. Grey's sharp gaze reflected on her eyes, the sound of heartbeats getting faster and faster.
The young man leaned in and sealed her lips with a kiss, full of fierce and passionate love as their body burned hot. As their lips separated, a thin, silver line was formed, glimmering in the air, soon broken by subtle breeze.
"Grey... You're acting mean again..." ［Yuna］
"That's because you're just so cute. I just want to eat you up." ［Grey］
"Uuu... Grey, you bully..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha." ［Grey］
Oaths of love sworn towards one another as the room's atmosphere was tinted pink. The night was cold and the city was already asleep, yet there was only warmth and love dancing in the air, two figures sealing their lips once more.
"I love you, Yuna." ［Grey］
"Me too... I love you too, Grey," ［Yuna］
CHAPTER 267 END