The sky was blue once again, not a single star to be seen apart from the sun, the white and gray clouds drifting along the winds as the blades of grass rustled with the leaves. It was yet another peaceful day.
Under the vast blue sky was a forest. In that forest, strangely enough, was a lone, yet luxurious carriage, a certain crest embedded on it. There were a number of figures to be seen, standing and loitering around as they chattered their time away.
"Gwanpa! Fwower!" ［Natalia］
"Oh? You like these little ones? Should we make you a garden then?" ［Ernes］
"Dear, please stop spoiling Natalia. It's not good for her upbringing." ［Talia］
"Eh? It's just a garden, what's the beal deal? And... Haven't I also made you a garden back then? Why couldn't I do the same for our granddaughter?" ［Ernes］
"Dear, now is not the time for that." ［Talia］
Of course, those figures were none other than the Royal entourage of Alfrione, the King and Queen now once again arguingー or rather, the Queen is trying to scold her husband from doing something troublesome again. A daily occurrence.
As for why they were in the forest, it was because it was finally time to head home. It has been a couple days since the Festival of Hearts ended, and so came the day to bid their farewells, quickly heading back home to get back on their duties.
The other Royal Families used the teleportation gate, but with Grey helping them, there was no need to do so. The only downside was that they needed to head in the forest so that no one sees them, just like the way they came.
With his power already as high as it is and people knowing about "Gate", Grey really doesn't mind as much if people learn about it. The only problem was the fact that people, especially the aristocracy, might crowd around him because of it. He wanted to avoid such a troublesome situation.
"Are you ready to leave, everyone?" ［Grey］
Asked Grey, and everyone's attention fell on him. They knew full well that they should leave, but there was a reluctance in their hearts to do so. They still wanted to enjoy their freedom even if it's only for another day.
"Haah... Can't we just extend our stay here?" ［Ernes］
"We can't be having that now, Your Majesty. You do know what it's like if His Honor gets angry." ［Grey］
"Ah, right... Anderson..." ［Ernes］
However, it didn't take long before everyone was convinced. Just the image of the Prime Minister boiling in rage with a dark and silent smile on his face was more than enough to send chills down their spines. It was really terrifying.
Grey and Yuna have yet to witness the sight of the Prime Minister who's reached the limits of his patience, but the King had. And as it seems, he felt traumatized by such a terrifying sight. He vowed to not make Anderson "too" angry. He was like a demon.
"Fufufu! Looks like this is where our little journey ends. We hope you had a lot of fun in our adventure, Iris." ［Yuna］
"Yes, it was a wonderful experience, Elder Sister Yuna. I had a delightful time staying with you over the course of this month. I am eternally grateful" ［Iris］
"Fufufu! Acting all prim and proper now, are we? You're so cute, Iris～!" ［Yuna］
"Mou... At least play along, Elder Sister Yuna..." ［Iris］
As for Iris, she is now polishing up her formal act again. It has been about a month since she's loosened herself up, but now that they're going back, it was time to get back on track. She was the ever so reliable Princess Royal, after all.
Though, no matter how formal she tried to act, she only looked adorable to Yuna's eyes, Yuna who was now hugging her tightly and patting her head. One of the only few who can treat a princess so casually.
"Nalia, hug too?" ［Natalia］
"Of course! I'll also give Natalia lots of hugs and kisses!" ［Yuna］
"Yaay～!" ［Natalia］
Though, no one still beat the Little Princess in terms of cuteness. Just as she saw Yuna hugging Iris, she also requested to be treated the same, extending her little arms out with an innocent sparkle playing in her eyes. Yuna couldn't help but fulfill her adorable little request.
"Jealous, aren't you? The Little Princess won't let you hug her anymore." ［Grey］
"Shut up. Whose fault do you think that is?" ［Julius］
"Oh? Are you blaming us now?" ［Grey］
And like usual, Grey and Julius were talking rough with one another once again, exchanging harsh words as often as they breathe. They have been getting on one another's nerves the past few days and it has been quite rowdy.
Well, even with how rough and barbaric they were with one another, they were still great friends. Without saying a single word, they simply bumped their fists against each other's, saying goodbyes in their own way.
Not just them, Grey and Yuna also gave their goodbyes to everyone else. They may be visiting the Little Princess weekly, but it's not always a guarantee that they'll see them. There was no harm in saying farewell even if it's just for a little while.
"Then, everyone, until next time." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! Take care, everyone～!" ［Yuna］
With their goodbyes finished, Grey then opened the gates once more and gentle light illuminated the forest. As they waved their hands goodbye, they vanished into the light, their figures slowly vanishing one after another as they passed through the gate.
Before long, everyone was finally gone and silence returned to the forest. There were only two figures left, glancing at the directions where the royal carriage previously was before turning around, looking at one another's faces.
"Shall we head back as well, Milady?" ［Grey］
"Un!" ［Yuna］
It didn't take too long before the silence was broken, the sound of footsteps echoing in the air. But rather than dash their way back towards the city, Grey and Yuna simply took their time and strolled around in the forest, holding one another's hands.
They've always been sprinting or running, but walking like such was a nice change of pace, the refreshing winds caressing their skin with every step they took. It was only then that they could appreciate the full beauty of the forest around them.
After exiting the forest, what greeted them was no dull sight. A field of colors once again welcomed them warmly, more and more flowers blooming by the second, the bees, bugs, and butterflies buzzing about without a care in the world.
The meadows were as peaceful and colorful as usual, not a single trace of chaos to be seen, only harmony as the rabbits hopped around and the birds perched on the bushes, chirping about before taking flight once more.
"Mmn～! This view really is wonderful no matter how many times I've seen it... I wish there's a meadow like this back in Galderia too..." ［Yuna］
"Well, how about we make one too? Using plant magic, that is." ［Grey］
"Ehh? That's a nice idea, but... where would we plant them then? Our garden is not that big, you know?" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Yuna, you silly girl... Have you forgotten already? We have the 'Sanctuary' to play around with, remember?" ［Grey］
At Grey's reassuring words, Yuna's expressions quickly brightened up with delight and excitement. Her pointy elven ears flapped up and down as she looked at Grey with expectant eyes, making the latter chuckle gently to himself.
After all, after the Sanctuary expanded, they were left with more space than they will ever need. With the use of plant, earth, water, and all sorts of magics, terraforming the land would be much easier. A green meadow was not impossible.
"Then, what kinds of flowers should we plant? Can we have violets? Ah! But roses are wonderful too... There's also lilies and tulips... Hmm... What to pick..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. We could just plant as much as we can, you know?" ［Grey］
"Really?! Then can we grow magic plants, as well?!" ［Yuna］
"Sure. Though, we might need to do some trial and error for that." ［Grey］
"Yaay～!" ［Yuna］
They were still planning, yet Yuna was already on cloud nine. She then listed flower after flower and created a wish list of all the flora she wants to grow in their soon to be meadow, when suddenly, a realization came to her
"Wait, Grey, can we also have animals as well? Like bees and butterflies?" ［Yuna］
"Hmm... It shouldn't be impossible... But we'll have to catch them first. I think we could also have rabbits and birds if we try hard enough." ［Grey］
"Oh! I'll try my best then!" ［Yuna］
Now, Yuna's face bloomed even brighter than before. So bright, it was practically blinding to look at. After listing the flowers, she then created a list of the little critters she wanted to see. Be it little ladybugs or cute rabbits, she considered them all. A bright smile bloomed on her face.
And as such a radiant smile bloomed on her face, Erdea's gates appeared before them. It was just as colorful as they remembered it, people pouring out as they head back to their own homes, leaving with satisfied faces.
With the Festival of Hearts now open, people are finally starting to leave one another and the streets are being cleaned up, only a couple more decorations remaining here and there as they flutter in the passing winds.
Yet despite the City of Colors being still just as lively, people chattering and bustling as they cleaned up after themselves. There were even some still playing around even when the festivities were already over, dancing their hearts out as they hopped about.
And speaking of festivities, Grey and Yuna had also used up the grand prize they won at the Wheel of Fortune, having a group date with Iris, Violet, and Julius. It was quite the fun time, enjoying many merry and wonderful activities.
"Oh! Boss! Lady Boss! Are you two heading back to the manor now?" ［Lester］
And just as they headed back to the Tobias Manor, a familiar voice called out to them. It was Lester who was now helping out in the cleaning efforts, holding a broom by his hand, sweeping away all the mess he could.
"Yeah, we are. Do you need anything from us?" ［Grey］
"Ah, nothing much... But, ah! Could you wait a moment please?" ［Lester］
Said Lester before turning back and running away towards the street side. By the time he returned, there was already a bag with him, the sound of clanging metals echoing with each and every step he took.
"Boss, Lady Boss, could you please hand this over to the Young Lord for me? It would really be a great help." ［Lester］
"Umm... Kitchenware...?" ［Grey］
"Yes. He said he wanted them the other day. It just so happened to be finished today, so I thought he'll want to have them as soon as possible." ［Lester］
Spatulas, tongs, ladles, knives, graters, and many more. There was a plethora of cooking utensils inside the bag Lester handed, and to top it all off, they were all custom-made as well and of the highest qualities.
They don't even need to guess, with such evidence in front of them, it was obvious that Garret had once again influenced, and now, to become a chef. They don't know if it was because of them, or because of something else. All they could tell was that it was going to be troublesome.
Not just for the Mayor, Cynthia, and Violet, but especially for the cooks as well. They could only imagine how many times he'll barge into the kitchen unannounced from now on. It would surely be a cause for headaches.
"Then, I'll be leaving it to you, Boss, Lady Boss!" ［Lester］
"Yeah... You can count on us..." ［Grey］
Or so Grey says, but there was not a speck of delight on his face, he was even arguing inside whether he should really hand them over to Garret or to the Mayor instead. Really, such a troublesome situation it was.
"Thank you very much, I'll make sure I'll make it up to youー" ［Lester］
"Hey, Lester, we're gonna leave you behind. Hurry up!"
"Sorry, Boss, Lady Boss. That's my cue. See you around later!" ［Lester］
"Un... See you around..." ［Yuna］
He left as suddenly as he came, leaving Grey and Yuna alone to themselves. They once again looked at the package Lester handed them, wondering what they should do with it to no avail. The more the thought, the more headaches it gives them.
They simply gave up on thinking and threw it inside the "Inventory". Since it was Garret who ordered it, they'll also be leaving it to his care. Whatever happens next would be up to him. Things would naturally sort themselves out... Probably...
'We already have our hands full with our work, no need to think too much about it. We still have a whole meadow to work on, after all.... Hm?' ［Grey］
And just as Grey was thinking of their next bug project, a sudden thought came to mind. If they were going to make something so big, there was no harm in making it grand as well, adding little bits of features here and there.
Of course, in order to make something grand, they would need prior knowledge about it or take inspiration from somewhere else. And as it happens, there is a place perfect close by for doing so. A masterpiece in the world of art.
"Yuna, should we take a little detour?" ［Grey］
"Mmn?" ［Yuna］
Yuna tilting her head to the right, Grey then took Yuna's hand and headed north where the Marble Gardens were located. They had been there before, but it never ceased to amaze them each and every single time, their hearts fluttering in awe.
And since people were still busy cleaning up, the Marble Gardens was surprisingly quiet, the sound of leaves rustling ringing clearly in their ears as the sweet fragrance of flowers wafted all throughout the place.
Not only was it peaceful, it was very refreshing and relaxing as well. Just being there was enough to heal one's fatigue as they enjoy the wonderful sights the garden has to offer, the sound of giggles echoing from time to time.
"Grey! You're a genius! With this, we can make our new meadow even more beautiful! You're so amazing!" ［Yuna］
"Now, now, quit the praising, you're gonna make me blush." ［Grey］
"But it's true though! Grey is the best in the world!" ［Yuna］
The young lady couldn't stop praising her beloved as she went all over the place, eyes sparkling brightly with excitement and enthusiasm as inspiration bloomed fervently in her heart. Excited like a little child who just saw a garden for the first time.
And just as Yuna went around exploring the place, Grey used plant magic to enrich the plants, letting a flower bloom into his hands. It was a chrysanthemum of blue and white, vibrant as one can be as it spread its petals in the wind.
"Yuna, over here." ［Grey］
"Hm? You were callinー" ［Yuna］
It was all too sudden, Yuna unable to finish her statement. Grey suddenly leaned in towards his beloved and placed the flower in between one of her ears and her hair. It was a simple addition, but it made Yuna look even more beautiful than before.
"I knew it. Blue and white really does suit you." ［Grey］
"Uuu... Grey... That's cheating, you know..." ［Yuna］
Soon, a fierce red color bloomed on her face, as she tried to keep her heart quiet. Grey didn't even mean to tease her, yet she was already flustered as one can be, beet red all the way to the ears. Truly adorable.
'Uuu... I thought he was going to kiss me...' ［Yuna］
Well, it wasn't just one reason, rather, there was a couple. Yuna was happy that Grey pays so much attention to her, but also a little overwhelmed by his sudden actions. They may already be engaged, but it was still a little embarrassing for her.
"Grey, you dummy..." ［Yuna］
"Eh? Did I do something wrong?" ［Grey］
"Hmph! Figure it out yourself!" ［Yuna］
Acting all sulky and pouty, Yuna puffed her cheeks and soon turned around. She then continued what she was doing before, trying not to look at Grey while her face was still red as one can be.
They walked around and looked around, and with the passing of time, they soon arrived at the pond. There were ducks, swans, birds, and fishes of all sorts, but there were barely any people around, having the pond to themselves.
There was no time to waste. As soon as they arrived, Grey then took out the picnic blanket from his "Inventory" and laid it down on the soft green grass. And soon enough, he sat down whilst Yuna still admired the beauty of the pond.
"Yuna." ［Grey］
There was no need to say more. Grey simply patted the spot beside him, asking the latter to sit down by his side. But rather than simply following suit, a little mischievous yet silly and heartwarming idea popped inside Yuna's mind.
A smile on her face, Yuna then took her seat and sat beside Grey. Soon, her lips broke into a mischievous smile as she pulled Grey towards her, making his head fall towards her lap. Grey couldn't even utter a single sound.
"E-Eh...? Yuna...? What's the meaning of this...?" ［Grey］
"Fufufu! You're always the one spoiling me. Now, it's your turn! I'm going to make your heart flutter for sure!" ［Yuna］
A sudden declaration rang out in the air, a confident smile painted on Yuna's face. It was a statement which left Grey puzzled for a short while, but the moment his mind worked around what Yuna was talking about, he couldn't help but chuckle.
"E-Eh?! S-Stop it! Why are you laughing?! I'm serious, you know?! We're not going back until I make your heart race like crazy!" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, yeah, sure you are." ［Grey］
"Hey! What does that mean?! You don't believe me, do you?!" ［Yuna］
"No, that's not it. It's just... Just being with you, my heart's already beating and thumping madly as it is." ［Grey］
Replied Grey, putting Yuna's hands over his chest. And sure enough, his heart was beating loudly and swiftly, like a group of wild horses galloping by the vast plains. It was a sensation which, combined with Grey's smile, only made Yuna's already flustered face burn even redder.
"Grey, stop it! I'm supposed to be the one making your heart race! Not the other way around! You dummy! Dummy! Dummy!" ［Yuna］
And now, the young landing is weakly throwing punches towards Grey, the latter simply crossing his arms to shield himself as he chuckled to himself. He had no intentions of teasing Yuna, yet here they were, both blushing joyously.
Soon, Grey caught Yuna's hands and held them close. Yuna tried to let herself free, but no matter how much she tried, she couldn't escape Grey's grasp. She could only look at him in the eyes, her face painted with happiness and embarrassment.
"Yuna, I love you." ［Grey］
"Dummy... I love you too..." ［Yuna］
Not even sugar, honey, or the sweetest nectars could stand a chance against their sweetness. Even the bees, butterflies, birds, and all the little critters couldn't take it, feeling overwhelmed and withered away from all their flirting. It was simply too much.
The wind continued to blow and so did their flirting. They chatted their time away, talking about the memories of the past and dreams for the future, the sound of giggles and chuckles dancing all over the place as smiles floated in the air.
Of course, the snacks wouldn't be absent, eating yummy treats as they laughed about and feeding the little critters while they're at it. There were only two of them, however there was no sense of loneliness as they held one another's hands.
DONGGG DONGGG DONGGG
Time passed some more and the third bell rang all over the whole city, announcing the advent of noon and lunch with it. Booming bells which echoed even in the peaceful gardens, garnering the attention of a certain figure, her ears twitching then.
"Grey! It's lunch time already! Let's hurry back to the mansion!" ［Yuna］
"Hm? I thought we won't be leaving until you make my heart race like crazy? Are you giving up already?" ［Grey］
"Uuu... That's... Umm... That's that and this is this... You know..." ［Yuna］
Well, her ears soon drooped down as soon as Grey said his piece. The young elf's face was now laced with guilt, concern, and panic as she tried to figure out what to do, Grey chuckling to himself all the while.
As mentioned previously, his heart is already pumping as hard as it could just by spending time with Yuna. There was no need for any extra effort of anything of the sort. He simply wanted to tease her one last time before they head back.
"Hahaha. My fiancée really is the cutest." ［Grey］
"Eh?!" ［Yuna］
"No, nothing... So what would you like to have for lunch? I'll cook you the best meal there is." ［Grey］
"Really?! Like, really, really?!" ［Yuna］
"Yeah. Just name it, and I'll cook it for you." ［Grey］
"Yaay～!" ［Yuna］
From guilt and confusion to delight and excitement, Yuna's mood quickly leaped up the very moment Grey's words rang inside her ears. She was happy as one can be, listing a long list of dishes as usual, Grey listening to her attentively.
Soon, Grey picked up the picnic blanket and they headed back, still holding each other's hands. The pond continued to ripple, the leaves continued to rustle, and the winds continued to whistle. Peace has returned to the gardens once more.
CHAPTER 291 END