BOOM BOOM BOOM
Deafening shockwaves ruptured the air and sent disastrous tremors throughout the ground, large cracks forming one after another as the earth trembled. Clouds of dust were adrift in the air, lights flickering as the walls collapsed time and time again.
Deep underground, a fierce battle unfolded between a number of figures. On one side were large rocky entities who could easily crush boulders if they wanted to, and on the opposing party were a black haired young man and a platinum figure.
Of course, these were none other than Grey and Polaris, the latter now shapeshifting to a small and more agile panther form. Even then, he easily laid waste to the enemies before them, tearing them to shreds without much difficulties.
⟨⟨Gale Waltz⟩⟩ ［Grey］
Grey waved his hands and a storm of blades flew out from his palms. There was no resistance whatsoever, the blades of wind simply cutting through anything that stood on their path. Be it boulders or golems, they were all cut mercilessly.
Some of the swifter ones tried to launch attacks from behind, but they were far too slow. Before they could even react, a blur suddenly appeared before them. The very next moment, their bodies were already diced up, some turned to fine dust.
"You insolent fools! How dare you attack from behind!" ［Polaris］
Polaris ran throughout the place as if it was its playground, leaping from wall to wall and maneuvering like a free bird soaring through the vast sky. A bird of death which only brought destruction upon wherever he passed.
Before long, the enemies were quickly cleared out. They may be big, but compared to Grey and Polaris, their powers were severely lacking. They soon turned back into mana leaving behind their drops. It was a mountain of precious ores and minerals, some gemstones added in the mix.
"Whew... That really was something, wasn't it?" ［Grey］
"How are you feeling, Master? Do you feel any discomfort?" ［Polaris］
"Not really, but thanks for worrying, Polaris... Anyway, let's continue on ahead. We have no time to waste." ［Grey］
"Understood, Master." ［Polaris］
And so, the two figures continued down the abandoned mines. And as they traversed the dark and musty caverns, they paved down a path of death and destruction for the monsters who happened to cross them.
There weren't just golems. From slimes, to goblins, skeletons, and even liches, there were a plethora of monsters to be seen. Even then, they all suffered the same fate in the hands of Grey and Polaris, reduced to dust as if they didn't exist in the first place.
Before long, they finally arrived at their designation, a beautiful, green gleam shining throughout the mines as Grey's little orbs of light illuminated the place. The glow was so beautiful, it was easy to fall in love with it. There was just one problem...
Guraakkkk Khiieeeekkkk Kururuuukkk
... It was that the place was flooded with monsters, a pandemonium of noise ringing throughout the depths of the mines as they approached it. Just a quick glance alone and one could easily tell there were thousands of them.
RUMMBBBLLLLLEEEEEEE
To top it all off, there was a Golem King present in the cavern. It was so big, it barely fit in the mines, looking like a doll stuck inside its tight container. It was an S-rank monster as well, a single mistake could cause the mines to collapse.
"This place is swarming with trash... Please leave this to me, Master. I'll make sure to thoroughly clean the place up." ［Polaris］
"Hmm... Alright, I'll leave it to you, Polaris. Good luck." ［Grey］
"By your will. I will make sure not to disappoint you, Master." ［Polaris］
The platinum panther bowed his head, and the very next moment, he vanished out of plain sight. The moment he was spotted again, he was already at the enemy's rear side, blending into the shadows despite how conspicuous his color was.
Khieeekkkkk Arrgghhhhh Urrrkkkkkkk
Screams of pain and agony soon echoed throughout the massive halls as Polaris made quick work of them. The moment his dagger-like claws drew near them, their fate was quickly decided, vanishing into thin air soon after.
He was very mindful of the surroundings as well, cleaning up the ones near the corners and edges first, making sure they don't accidentally strike something they are not supposed to. And so, the numbers of the enemies quickly dwindled.
BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM
As for those who were too far away, they didn't say either. Before they could even do anything funny, Polaris immediately launched a barrage of breath attacks towards them. Beams of golden light exploded upon impact.
Crash Thud Thud Thud Thunk
The Golem King tried to advance and land a strike towards Polaris, but not only did it miss, its whole arm was chopped up to pieces as well, falling down the cold ground, making loud and heavy thuds as they crashed.
Of course, Polaris didn't just stop there. As soon as he climbed up its arms, he then landed a barrage of strikes towards its head and upper torso, his sharp claws digging its hard armor as if it was a hot knife swimming though butter.
BANNNGGGGGG
With its other arm, the Golem King tried to strike Polaris down. Unfortunately for it, the latter was simply too swift, evading it without much issue. However, it was exactly because he evaded that the walls of the cavern received the heavy strike in his stead.
Yet, the cavern didn't collapseー or rather, it couldn't. As soon as Grey foresaw the situation, he quickly created a barrier to coat the whole cavern. Not even the full-power punch of a Golem King can destroy it.
"Don't worry, Polaris. I've already made some safety precautions here and there. You can fight to your heart's content." ［Grey］
"... Thank you, Master. I will just do so." ［Polaris］
There was no need to hold back any longer. As soon as Polaris heard Grey's words, he quickly landed back on his feet. But rather than attacking again, he simply stood still and gathered tremendous amounts of mana near his maw.
The room which was once illuminated by a deep, green luster was now swallowed by golden light, mana swirling all over the room. The Golem King, wanting to destroy Polaris, quickly charged towards him, raising its fist mightily. Unfortunately for it...
"Begone!" ［Polaris］
... It was already far too late. Before the Golem King's heavy fist could even reach Polaris, intended golden light engulfed the room whole, loud tremors reverberating throughout the earth as the mines shook ever so violently.
The moment the light faded, only a single figure remained standing. It was Polaris, and around him were hundreds upon hundreds of drops. Some were destroyed, but the best ones remained. There were still quite a handful of them.
"Good job, Polaris! You did it!" ［Grey］
"I don't deserve such praise, Master. I couldn't have done it without you." ［Polaris］
"Hahaha. Humble as ever, I see." ［Grey］
Of course, Grey just didn't let the drops sit on the ground. With a swipe of his hands, he quickly stored them inside his "Inventory", not leaving a single one behind. Ores were especially abundant, making Grey smiles a little.
Now that everything has finally been cleaned up, Grey eyes soon traveled towards the walls, watching the gemstones sparkle like stars in the night sky. The only two differences were that they weren't stars, and they were in a cave. A contradiction.
All of the gems imbedded in the cavern walls were green jewels called "Cereil". They are precious gems which often thrive in mana-rich environments, thousands of them present in the cavern. Though...
"There you are. We've been looking everywhere for you." ［Grey］
... The ones Grey needed are the highest quality ones which absorbed the most mana after dozens, if not hundreds, of years. They were the "Deepbound Cereil" which was meant to represent "Greedy Love" in the nine colors.
Careful as one can be, Grey used both tools and magic to extract the Cereils firmly embedded in the walls. And though there were thousands of Cereils, only three were Deepbound Cereils, only showing how rare they were.
"With that, that's eight of them." ［Grey］
Said Grey, a gentle smile appearing on his face. He's been searching for them for so long, he hasn't even come back to the Manor for a few days already. Now that there was only one missing, he could only feel happiness.
Well, it wasn't like he was simply collecting the nine colors. He had already planned the other aspects of the proposal such as the venue, time, and such, and now, the only thing that's needed was to find the last color and propose. He was excited.
"Master, may I ask something?" ［Polaris］
"Sure, go ahead." ［Grey］
"This is just my conjecture, but... Are you perhaps avoiding the Mistress?" ［Polaris］
It hit right where it hurts. As soon as Grey heard Polaris' question, he suddenly halted on his tracks, his previously bright smile now stiff and frozen. It was all too sudden, he didn't know how to answer it.
"Haah... I guess you could say that... Was I really that obvious?" ［Grey］
"Yes, Master. Even the other familiars have started to notice. I believe everyone knows about it." ［Polaris］
"I see... That's quite troublesome..." ［Grey］
Grey couldn't even laugh even if he wanted to, only a wry smile plastered on his face. Knowing how obvious he was in his actions, he could only stay quiet and ponder what was wrong with him, and where his guts went.
Even now, he's afraid that the moment he sees Yuna after days of not seeing her, he won't be able to hold back himself. He wants to embrace her, but is getting more and more afraid that he won't be able to hold back his desires and eat her whole.
He could handle it if Yuna only gets mad at him, but if she were to ever hate him... He doesn't know what to do anymore. The longer he pondered over it, the more doubts he had. Doubts which only appeared now that they've been together for so long.
He's been pondering over his doubts. The more he thought about it, the more obvious it became. He wasn't just afraid Yuna would get disillusioned with her, but also that she rejects him. An unreasonable surge of anxiety growing in his heart. Truly laughable.
"Does Yuna know about this?" ［Grey］
"The Mistress... I'm not sure..." ［Polaris］
That was a lie.
Being a familiar, Polaris knows full well the emotions of his masters. He may not be able to read them like a book, he could still tell. He knew that both of them harbored the same anxiety and the same fears.
Even then, Polaris didn't dare to say it towards them. It was a problem they needed to solve as a couple, one the familiars could not interfere directly. All they could do is offer them advice, lend an ear, and pray for the best.
"Master, I may be meddling too much, but I believe you should talk this out with the Mistress. I am sure she will understand." ［Polaris］
"Knowing Yuna, yeah, that would probably be the case." ［Grey］
"Then, why don't you try?" ［Polaris］
"That... I don't know... I'm actually confused as well." ［Grey］
No, Grey isn't as confused as he claims he is. There simply was an irrational fear in his heart despite knowing it would most probably work out just fine. Troubles of love he had never encountered before.
Thankfully, due to Polaris' words, albeit slightly, he could feel the weight of his burden being lifted. He's still not ready to confront Yuna, but he's starting to gain a little bit of confidence. He just wants to see and embrace her again.
"Well, I'm sure I'll figure something out." ［Grey］
"If that's the case, then it seems my concerns were unneeded. I wish you luck, Master. I hope you can reconcile with the Mistress soon." ［Polaris］
"Thanks, Polaris." ［Grey］
"Soon"... Such a word rang throughout Grey's head. It isn't just the festival which is approaching close, but also their anniversary. The very same day when he's planning to lay down his heart and kneel before his beloved. Only two days away.
Still, things aren't quite ready. Though the plan is nearing its completion, there was still one item from the Nine Colors which was missing. The which symbolizes the love he thinks was most important of them all,
"Well, enough about that. Time is passing by quickly. Let's go!" ［Grey］
"As you wish, Master." ［Polaris］
There was no time to waste. With the sands of down trickling down, Grey and Polaris quickly teleported back to the surface, the gentle sunlight greeting them, the fresh and cool breeze caressing their skin.
Breeze which soon turned turbulent the very moment Polaris spread his wings, strong bursts of winds running rampant all over the place as a platinum figure soared high and mighty. Clouds were parted and bored, platinum streaking like a lightning bolt.
...
The breeze was fresh and pleasant, the sweet fragrance of flowers drifting in the air along with the scent of freshly cut grass. Even the sun was not as harsh as usual, only showering the world with gentle and warm sunlight. It was a perfect day.
"Hic... Hic... Grey... Hic... Grey..." ［Yuna］
Well, almost a perfect day...
As it seems, a lovely young lady is once again bawling her eyes out as if there was no tomorrow. She hiccuped and she cried, a single name coming out of her mouth time and time again, a sense of longing in her heart.
It has been a few days since Yuna consulted with Helen and Tilda, and ever since, she has been trying to cheer herself up. There was still anxiety in her heart, but she felt much better than before, looking forward to talking things heart to heart with Grey.
But despite the passing days, there was no progress. So much as to try and talk with him, Grey isn't even showing up at the mansion anymore. He's been away for a few days already, causing even greater loneliness inside the young lady's heart,
She could simply have a telepathic talk, but she preferred to do it face to face. Well, not that she could do the former anyway. For some reason, Grey has been cutting off the calls short, saying reasons along the lines of business. It was hopeless.
"Hic... Should I try and seduce him then...?" ［Yuna］
So much so that Yuna is even considering Helen's words. She isn't usually the active one in the nightly activities, but she knew a thing or two after several months of doing it. She is quite experienced, one could say.
"Uuu... But it's still too embarrassing..." ［Yuna］
Even then, she was far too weak hearted to attempt such bold and aggressive things. She had seduced Grey many times before, but it was only when she was feeling bold or was doing it unconsciously. It was far too high of a hurdle.
The young lady who could easily wipe out cities and exterminate monsters, struggling desperately in the matters of love. She couldn't even hold back her tears any longer, crying like a little child from too much longing. Oh, what a sight to behold.
"Mistress, are you sure you're okay? We can ask the Master if you want." ［Sirius］
"Uuu... Thank you, but I want to talk to Grey myself." ［Yuna］
"As you wish, Mistress. But please do remember we're always by your side when you ever need our help. We'll be waiting." ［Sirius］
"Un... Thank you, everyone." ［Yuna］
Even the familiars could do nothing about their situation but spectate and offer help from time to time. They could only comfort their mistress, cuddling up to her and making her feel better with their fluffiness and cuteness.
As for Iris and Violet, they are currently out and about visiting a store. They invited previously, but the latter declined. She wanted to wait if ever Grey returned. She doesn't regret her decision, but she's undoubtedly much lonelier without them.
Tap Tap Tap Clop Clop Clop
And just as her loneliness reached its peak, a familiar rhythm echoed in the air. It was the footsteps of someone she was oh so familiar with, her ears perking up as soon as it rang in her ears, standing up abruptly as she could.
She quickly rushed towards the doors, opening it with a clack, and she was right. As soon as she peeked in the corridors, she finally saw the figure she had been longing to see for days, unable to help herself but smile like a fool.
"Greー" ［Yuna］
"Your Highness, it's been some time! How are things going on your side?" ［Gerald］
"Good to see you again, Lord Gerald. And fortunately, things have been going well. Only one more to go." ［Grey］
"Oh! That is wonderful news! Do tell if you ever need my assistance." ［Gerald］
Still, she couldn't talk to him just yet. The Mayor had beaten her to the punch and is now currently talking with Grey. She wanted to talk with her, but eavesdropping was not her hobby. And so, she waited patiently.
It was fortunate, not for her, but for Grey. He was so tired, he forgot to check with his "Heaven's Eye" if Yuna was around. Otherwise, Yuna would have heard their talk and the surprise would have been spoiled. It was fortunate, indeed.
"Ah, about that, Lord Gerald. I actually have a favor to ask." ［Grey］
"Oh! Please do tell! I will be doing my best to fulfill your request." ［Gerald］
"Thanks. Then..." ［Grey］
And so, Grey and the Mayor's conversation proceeded. They talked for quite some time and all Yuna could do was wait by the corner. She was giggling softly to herself, looking forward to talking again with Grey after quite some time.
Before long, the conversation ended and the two finally parted ways. The Mayor headed back to his office whilst Grey walked towards the direction of their room, fixing his attire once more, making himself even a little more presentable.
"Welcome back, Grey." ［Yuna］
"Ah, Yuna... How long have you been there?" ［Grey］
"For a couple minutes, I guess... I've been here since you've arrived." ［Yuna］
"Yuna... That's nor just a couple minutes, you know..." ［Grey］
Strangely enough, though they've been so nervous about seeing each other again, they were actually much calmer in reality. There was no strange sense of distance about them nor was there any tension in the air. It was just like how it's always been.
They chatted and they laughed, smiling about as they walked down the corridors, hearts fluttering like butterflies dancing in the air. Walking side by side, it was as if their worries suddenly disappeared as if they were just fleeting lies. Hearts at rest.
"By the way, Grey, how's your quests doing? Making any progress?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah. I only need one more thing, actually. I should be finished just in time... Or at least I'm hoping so." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! I'm sure you'll do it. You're Grey, after all." ［Yuna］
Said Yuna, finishing her words with a sweet smile. A smile which quickly melted away all the fatigue Grey felt just by seeing it. He had already prepared himself for it, but he never thought seeing her smile would make him so happy.
"Right, Grey... After your work is over, can I have a little bit of your time?" ［Yuna］
"Hm? Sure. Though... it might still be a couple days away. I'm still quite busy right now. Are you alright with that?" ［Grey］
"Un! It's fine. There's just something I needed to talk to you with." ［Yuna］
"Alright, great. I'm looking forward to it." ［Grey］
With that, everything has finally been decided. They have yet to settle their issues, but albeit slowly, they were making progress. Yuna couldn't be any happier talking with Grey once again, feeling like her heart would jump out of her chest.
But such happiness was not one which lasted long. Going with the flow of their conversation and the mood looming in the air, Yuna tried to hold Grey's hands, but rather than reciprocate it, Grey suddenly flinched, flicking her hand away.
"Ah, sorry... I was just caught off guard, and... I'm a little sweaty right now, so..." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! Why are you making excuses? It's fine, you know?" ［Yuna］
"Really, sorry about that..." ［Grey］
Grey didn't hate it, not at all. Rather, he was actually longing for her touch once more. But with him being himself right now, there was no guarantee he could himself back once he gets riles up. His cheeks were now burning from embarrassment.
Though, the same couldn't be said for Yuna. She simply laughed it off, but in the depths of her heart, a deep and dark swirl of negative emotions started to brew. A cold, ominous chill started to gnaw away at her heart once again.
"Yuna, is... everything alright...?" ［Grey］
"Un... Everything's perfectly fine..." ［Yuna］
Yuna said with a smile on her face. But it wasn't bright nor was it sweet, rather, it was painful, forcing herself to make a smile even though there was no trace of happiness in her heart. There was only doubt and sadness.
Anxiety crept inside her heart once again.
CHAPTER 280 END