Quack Quack Splash Splash
The little pond was as blue as the vast blue sky above it. Water rippled as the ducks paddled their feet, swimming ever so peacefully in their little pond as lotus bloomed beautifully over the tranquil waters and reeds swayed by the gentle winds.
A figure peeked towards the peaceful waters, black hair fluttering in the wind as her red eyes reflected on the water's surface. A pair of red orbs, bright as ruby, stared off into the distance, gazing at the white swans resting over the waters.
"How beautiful..." ［Violet］
Of course, such a figure was none other than Violet. Her love for beautiful things was still running strong, now observing the animals, the plants, the rocks, and the pond itself. Everything was sparkling beautifully in her eyes.
She even admired the large willow giving her shade, swaying her feet up and down as she rested atop the clean and large boulder. She enjoyed the peaceful symphony of the Marble Gardens, listening even to the softest ripples across the water.
"Elder Sister Violet, Elder Sister Yuna made some parfaits, would you like to have some? They're really, absolutely delicious!" ［Iris］
"Oh! That sounds amazing, and yes, I would love that." ［Violet］
Though such peace didn't last, a loud yet gentle voice echoing in the air. Iris is now calling over Violet, waving at her excitedly. Beside the princess was another beauty, giggling to herself silently as she sat over the picnic blanket.
"Fufufu! Looks like someone's enjoyed their time over the pond. The Marble Gardens sure is beautiful, isn't it?" ［Yuna］
"S-Sorry, I was a little bit lost in thought. The pond was just too beautiful." ［Violet］
"Fufufu! Why are you apologizing, you silly girl? Here, have a parfait instead. If you want any more toppings, you can get some right here." ［Yuna］
Said Yuna as she pointed at the chilled containers filled with all sorts of fruits, berries, and nuts. There were also some syrups by the side from strawberry to chocolate, and even some cookie crumbs and chocolate chips. A sweet extravaganza.
And as expected from such a lovely display, Violet immediately fell in love at first sight with the parfait. The berries, the ice cream, the water sticks, and the little spoon. Everything looked perfect, picturesque as one can be.
Well, it wasn't just the presentation. As soon as Violet delivered a spoonful towards her mouth, sweetness burst forth in her mouth. The sugary sweetness of the syrup, the creamy sweetness of the ice cream, and the fruity sweetness of the berries. All three were in perfect harmony.
"Waah～! So this is a parfait... it's so beautiful! And delicious too!" ［Violet］
"Fufufu! Just tell me if you want to have more, but Ah! Don't overeat, okay? Your stomachs might hurt if you do." ［Yuna］
Or so she says, but her actions were the complete opposite of her words. She had already finished a glass of parfait, and is now going for her second one. It hasn't even been a couple minutes yet she has emptied it fully. She was simply on another level.
The sun continued to sink and the three ladies enjoyed their meal together, soft and gentle laughs drifting in the air as the waters continued to ripple. The leaves rustled, and then rustled some more.
"Elder Sister Yuna, we still have some pieces of bread left over. Aren't you going to store these in your storage ring?" ［Iris］
"Ah, that. I purposely left that there. Just let them be." ［Yuna］
"Eh?" ［Iris］
The young princess was easily confused, tilting her head ever so slightly. Yuna didn't explain any further and simply pulled in the bread with wind magic. It was as if she had invisible hands in her command. A little magic trick of sorts.
As soon as the bread was in her grasp, she then used a combination of wind and fire magic to dry them, finishing off the chain with a small flurry of gust, cutting the bread into hundreds of small pieces. They were soon placed inside a bowl.
"Let's feed the ducks, shall we?" ［Yuna］
Her intentions were pure and innocent. As soon as Yuna said her piece, the other two quickly agreed, nodding their heads in excitement. They all headed towards the pond, bright smiles painted on their faces.
Quack Quack Quack Quack
Yuna threw some crumbs to the pond and the ducks and even the swans quickly gathered. They swam gracefully towards the crumbs, picking them off with their beaks and swallowing them whole, all the while paddling their little feet.
"Waah～! They're really eating it..." ［Iris］
"Amazing... This is so beautiful... They look so adorable...!" ［Violet］
Both the young ladies were delighted by the sight, eyes swimming left and right as they watched the ducks and swans feed on the bread crumbs. Their formation was chaotic as one can be, but still beautiful all the same.
"Okay, here you go. Why don't you feed the ducks as well?" ［Yuna］
"Yes! I would very much love to! Thank you so much, Older Sister Yuna!" ［Violet］
"Y-Yes! I'll do my best as well!" ［Iris］
"Fufufu! Then, do your best～!" ［Yuna］
Following Yuna's lead, both Iris and Violet also got themselves a handful of bread crumbs and also threw them towards the pond. Bright smiles bloomed on their faces as soon as they saw the little creatures gather slowly.
The more bread crumbs they threw, the more animals gathered before them. Before they knew it, even little birds and pigeons also perched in the nearby branches and landed on the ground, looking at them with expectant eyes.
"Fufufu! It seems like these little guys are also hungry," ［Yuna］
Yuna did not discriminate. As soon as she saw the little birdies land on the ground, she then scooped out a handful of bread crumbs and also threw them towards the ground. The sounds of wings flapping echoed as they descended from the branches.
"Elder Sister Yuna, I also want to feed them." ［Iris］
"Sure, just make sure to keep the excitement to yourself, okay? You might scare them away otherwise." ［Yuna］
"Yes! I'll keep that in mind." ［Iris］
Ducks and swans on the pond, and pigeons, doves, and many more on the ground. The Marble Gardens were filled with new colors as the birds flapped their little wings. It was a bird paradise, chirps and tweets as music in the air.
Time passed some more, and as the fourth bell rang, everyone was finally out of the garden. They then continued their day-long stroll, wandering to where their feet took them with anticipation in their hearts.
There were stalls, carts, exhibitions, simple attractions, and even more stalls across the streets. It was a feast for the eyes, with all sorts of new things popping out here and there. Heck, there were even new ones in the streets they passed through just a couple hours ago.
"What are these things...? They look so weird... And jiggly like pudding..." ［Violet］
"I also don't know... Do you know what this is, Elder Sister Yuna?" ［Iris］
"I'm afraid not... It's also the first time I've seen this..." ［Yuna］
Of course, just as there are many beautiful and interesting things, there were also weird ones in the mix as well. Now, they are looking at a jello-looking sculpture that wiggles as it moves. They all had their minds on it, when suddenly...
"Ah! Your Hiー I mean, Miss Yuna, you're here!" ［Beklaim］
... A familiar voice echoed from behind. It belonged to a stubby and chubby man without a single lick of hair on his head. It was none other than Beklaim, who is currently wandering around the city as he breathes in the excitement.
Yuna didn't even need to think. As soon as she saw Beklaim, she instantly erected a sound-proofing barrier around them. She knew full well how much of a chatterbox the latter can be, after all. It was better safe than never.
"Ah, Mister Beklaim, good afternoon. How have you been doing?" ［Yuna］
"Hohoho. Good afternoon too, Miss Yuna. And thankfully, I've been doing well. In fact, I just had one of the most wonderful lunches a few minutes ago." ［Beklaim］
"Oh, it seems like we're on the same boat, Mister Beklaim. We just had a lovely picnic lunch over the Marble Gardens." ［Yuna］
"Ohh～! The Marble Gardens! I heard it's a wonderful place!" ［Beklaim］
"It is. You should go visit sometimes too, Mister Beklaim." ［Yuna］
"Hohoho, if Miss Yuna recommends it then it must be so. I will make sure to drop by if I ever have the time. I'm very much looking forward to it." ［Beklaim］
The conversation was as friendly as one can be, Yuna and Beklaim simply chatting as they gave updates over what happened over the past few days. And as it seems, the merchants are only growing busier by the day.
"Oh, right, how rude of me. It's good to see you again, Miss Iris." ［Beklaim］
"Good to see you again as well, Mister Beklaim. It seems like the metalware business is doing well for you." ［Iris］
"That it is. I've been quite lucky lately." ［Beklaim］
Of course, they didn't just exclude the others. As soon as he noticed Iris in the corner of his eyes, Beklaim quickly greeted the princess with a slight nod before exchanging greetings with her, laughing as merrily as usual.
After Iris, his eyes then shifted towards yet another young lady. It was his first time seeing her, but knowing she's with Yuna, he quickly concluded that she was a good person. A bright and friendly smile bloomed on his face as he extended his hand.
"I believe this is our first time meeting, Young Miss. The name is Beklaim, an acquaintance of Miss Yuna. It's a pleasure to meet you." ［Beklaim］
"Ah, yes, I'm Violet Tobias. The pleasure is mine." ［Violet］
The young lady soon extended her hands as well and shook Beklaim's hands. He was smiling so brightly to have met yet another person, but such a smile was short-lived. A realization soon dawned upon him.
"Eh...? Tobias...?" ［Beklaim］
Such a name echoed inside his mind time and time again, and his mind was sent to the void, his head empty as one can be. His mind has finally stopped functioning, freezing from a sudden shock as his soul left his body.
"Mister Beklaim, are you okay...?" ［Yuna］
"If a potato eats a potato, does that mean it's a cannibal?" ［Beklaim］
In fact, he was not okay. His mind was so fried, he started spouting some mumbo jumbo, gibberish as they came. The shock was simply too much for his brain and heart to handle. Beklaim,exe has stopped working.
With quick thinking, they quickly escorted Beklaim towards a nearby shed and gave him some fresh air. A few minutes later, and fortunately, he finally snapped back to reality. A glass of water later and he has been rejuvenated.
He was a little stiff at first, but after a little bit of explanation from Yuna, he quickly calmed himself down. He still found it hard to believe that Yuna was walking with such a big shot, then again, Yuna herself was also one. He just accepted it as it is.
"Are you okay now, Mister Beklaim?" ［Yuna］
"Ah, yes. Though I really apologize for showing you such an unsightly sight. I just didn't think to meet the Lord's daughter this way." ［Beklaim］
"Fufufu! It must have been a surprise." ［Yuna］
"It really is, it really is, Your Highness." ［Beklaim］
The man was now back to his normal self, even going back to addressing Yuna formally. But as such a conversation occurred, a certain figure couldn't help but tilt her head ever so slightly, puzzled about something.
"But, Mister Beklaim, wasn't your reaction a little off? I mean, you have already met Older Sister Yuna, and there's Iris too." ［Violet］
"Eh? Miss Iris...? I get Her Highness, but Miss Iris...?" ［Beklaim］
"Well, yes... She's the Princess Royal of Alfrione, after all..." ［Violet］
It was one shock after another. Beklaim had just recovered, but after an even heavier revelation was dropped on him, his soul escaped his body once again. Now, even his eyes have turned white, slowly swaying until his mind stopped working once again.
"Eh...? Was I not supposed to say that?" ［Violet］
It was now far too late for regrets. Now that she's said it, there was nothing more they could do about it. Thankfully, Yuna already set up a barrier around them, and so, no one else heard them. It was a relief, indeed.
A whole glass of chilled fruit juice later, and Beklaim was finally back to his senses. He looked back and forth at Iris, still unable to believe that the young girl before him was actually a bonafide princess. Shock still loomed in his heart.
"Haah... To think Miss Iris really is Her Highness, Princess Iris. I... I don't know what to say, actually..." ［Beklaim］
"Sorry for hiding it from you, Mister Beklaim." ［Iris］
"Ah, no, no. Please don't lower your head, Your Highness. I'm sure you had your reasons. I'm just in a bit of shock, is all." ［Beklaim］
No, it wasn't just a "bit" of shock. Beklaim was so shocked, he doesn't even know what is real anymore. But thinking about it in a more logical perspective, it made sense that Iris was a princess. He was just being blind.
"However... Umm... Mister Beklaim, if possible, I would love it if you still treat me all the same... Just like before..." ［Iris］
"... Hohoho! If that's what Your Highness wishes, then how else could this old man deny it? Once again, I'll be in your care, Yourー No, Miss Iris." ［Beklaim］
"Yes, I'll also be in your care. And thank you." ［Iris］
There was no need to deny the young princess' request. Although his speech is more on the formal side, Beklaim had already treated Grey and Yuna casually, one more wouldn't make much of a difference.
And so, with everything finally resolved, they then started chatting about a couple of things. Beklaim, in particular, was as chatty as ever. From events currently unfolding in the city to some small gossip, he's got it all.
"Oh, right! That reminds me, Your Highness. Would you also be participating in the Geldhart Auction this upcoming Veneris?" ［Beklaim］
"Geldhart... Auction...?" ［Yuna］
"Yes, it's one of the biggest auction houses in Erdea, and also one of the most popular. Many merchants and nobles will be gathering during the night." ［Beklaim］
What Beklaim said was no exaggeration. From rare and specialty trinkets all the way to some lost treasures, the Geldhart Auction House offers a large range of items and sells it in their auctions happening once a month, with one big, annual auction at the end of every year.
However, this year is quite special. With the Festival of Hearts approaching, they would also be holding a grand auction during which very important figures from all over the continent will attend. The grandest one of them all.
Rumor has it that there will even be Legendary-Grade and Mythical-Grade items which would be auctioned during the day of the festival, along with many rare and precious items. Each one would cost millions at the very least.
But perhaps the reason why the auction house is so famous was because it allows anyone, no matter what social standing, to participate. It is a battlefield where money is spent like water, coins and crystals on the line.
"Ohh! Would there be herbs and alchemy materials as well?!" ［Yuna］
"Of course! And not just any herbs, they'll have all sorts of magic plants on display! Many high-tier alchemists would surely attend it!" ［Beklaim］
"Waah～! Magic plants...!" ［Yuna］
But of course, what Yuna is most excited about were the materials and ingredients she could use in her alchemy. She already has a mountain of them, but having more wouldn't hurt. The more the merrier, as they say.
Just thinking about what things she could find in there was enough to make her blood boil in excitement. And in a very Yuna-like fashion, she's already thinking of buying some as gifts for everyone, not even considering the prices.
"Umm... Older Sister Yuna, we're actually participating in the auction this month. Would you like to joinー" ［Violet］
"Un! Yes, please!" ［Yuna］
There was no hesitation in her answer. Violet has yet to finish her words yet Yuna already gave her answer. One doesn't even need to guess. Just by looking at how brightly her eyes were sparkling, one could easily tell she was excited.
"Then, I'll tell Mom and Dad about it later, I'm sure they'll agree. We just need to pick our dresses for the day." ［Violet］
"Fufufu! Thank you very much, Violet～!" ［Yuna］
"Uh... Umm... Elder Sister Violet, about the auction... I would also like to join you. Would that be okay?" ［Iris］
"Of course! No problem!" ［Violet］
There was no need to banter. With it, their plans for the next few days have already been decided. Bright smiles bloomed on everyone's faces as they looked forward to the upcoming day, thinking about what things they would see there.
The sun continued to sink over the horizon, and after parting with Beklaim, they then continued their day out, heading inside establishment after establishment. They had a lot of fun and bought a lot of things. It was a day full of memories and excitement.
Soon, the sun finally set over the horizon, and everyone finally headed home. They had a wonderful dinner with everyone, discussing the upcoming auction and sharing stories about their day. A hearty dinner full of warmth and laughter.
"Fuwaaah～! So fluffy～!" ［Yuna］
Of course, what came after dinner was heading back to their rooms. As soon as she arrived, Yuna quickly jumped towards the bed, bouncing a little bit before she settled. She was smiling so happily, enjoying the fluff and warmth.
"Haah... Yuna, how many times should I tell you this? Remove your shoes first before getting on the bed." ［Grey］
"Mou... It's too bothersome... Remove it for me, please～?" ［Yuna］
"No, not today. Remove it on your own, Young Lady. And once you're done with that, place it by the shoe rack, alright?" ［Grey］
"Boo! Boo! This is abuse of authority!" ［Yuna］
And as usual, now that they were alone together, Yuna started acting like a spoiled kitten once again. Though, even when she was complaining, she quickly removed her shoes and did as Grey told her. She was just being playful, if anything.
As soon as she was finished, she then crawled back towards the bed, hid under the blanket, and watched Grey as he checked the contents of his "Inventory" as she rolled around. It has become a daily routine.
"Yuna, you're going to bore a hole in my head with all that staring." ［Grey］
"Well, hurry up and get to bed then..." ［Yuna］
"In a minute. I just need to arrange these things a little bit and I'm done. They're getting a tad bit too cluttered." ［Grey］
"Mou... We barely talked all day yet you're only thinking about your Inventory... Pay attention to me too... Hey, look at me..." ［Yuna］
She really was like a spoiled kitten, now pouting as she puffed her cheeks, hugging her pillow rightly all the while. She continued to bore a hole towards Grey, pouting even more the more Grey ignored her.
"Haah... I'm done. I'm going to bed now." ［Grey］
"Yaay～!" ［Yuna］
Though... It didn't take much to appease her. As soon as Grey said he'll join her in the bed, she squealed happily, over the moon as she smiled ever so brightly. She looked so excited, patting the bed as if asking Grey to join her.
And the very moment Grey laid down on the bed, she quickly latched onto him and embraced him tightly. She had become clingy once again, giggling to herself as she crawled into Grey's arms, enjoying his warmth.
She was so adorable, Grey's barely holding himself back. In fact, he wasn't actually arranging his items just a while ago, he was simply preparing himself for the battle against his desires which was about to come. Especially with such a cute girlfriend.
"Grey, goodnight kiss..." ［Yuna］
Yep, it was a battle, alright. He had already resolved himself, but with Yuna doing such sudden attacks, it was difficult to hold back. It was especially hard with such expectant eyes looking at him straight to the soul.
"No... Not now... Maybe tomorrow..." ［Grey］
"Ehh?! Why?! I want a goodnight kiss!" ［Yuna］
"Umm... How about a hug instead?" ［Grey］
"No! Give me now! Now!" ［Yuna］
And now, the young elf is throwing a tantrum. It was going to be a long night for the both of them.,. In ways more than one...
CHAPTER 275 END