"Then, I guess this is where we say goodbye." ［Grey］
"Hahaha. So it seems, Your Highnesses. Though... We would be more than glad if you would like to extend your stay." ［Gerald］
"We're thankful for the offer, Lord Gerald, but we still have a home to return to. We can't be gone for too long." ［Grey］
"Un! Everyone's waiting for us." ［Yuna］
"Then, it seems there's no way of convincing you anymore." ［Gerald］
The Mayor said, shaking his head slightly as a subtle smile bloomed on his face. It has been a fun and wonderful experience being with them for more than a month, and it was something he was thankful for.
Sadly, there is always an end of things and it was finally time to send their farewells. They have already exchanged their last words and also given one another presents, a mountain of stuff filling Grey's "Inventory" after receiving the Mayor's "little" surprise.
And as usual, Grey and Yuna had also given the household a pair of cellphones to use for themselves, and also a camera for Violet to snap the most beautiful things that caught her eyes. Gifts which everyone was happy about.
With that, every little business they have has finally been done and dusted. Aside from exploring more of Erdea, they have nothing left to do. It was finally time for them to depart and say goodbye to the place, happy memories still in their minds.
"Boss, Lady Boss, don't worry. I'll make sure to use everything you've taught me for good. Please rest assured." ［Garret］
"Yes. I'll also treasure the camera very well. I'll make sure to surprise you with the most beautiful album there is once you visit again." ［Violet］
"Fufufu! It seems we have nothing to worry about then." ［Yuna］
"Then, everyone, we're off... Take care of yourselves." ［Grey］
"You as well, Your Highnesses. I hope you have a wonderful trip." ［Gerald］
There was no need to day any more needless words. Grey and Yuna simply waved their hands goodbye, the others waving back at them. Soon, the two turned around and their footsteps echoed in the air, happy smiles blooming about.
It would have been more efficient to simply use "Gate" then and there, but it would also be less fun at the same time. They wanted to take a final look at the city's beauty before heading off into the distance.
The streets, the house, and the shops and stalls. Everything was as beautiful and colorful as the first time they arrived there. The people were as merry and jolly as one can be, little children still feeling the festival which had already gone by as they ran around the streets with smiling faces.
"Hahaha! Have you seen the show yesterday?! It was hilarious as hell!"
"Tell me about it! My belly was aching all the time!"
"We know. You were even rolling around, laughing, you crazy bastard!"
Of course, there were also quite a few folks who were... too merry for their own sake. They still had the festival spirit in them, laughing aloud in the streets as if they owned them, mocking one another as they recalled yesterday's events.
Well, not that people really minded them, rather, they were quite on board with their rowdiness, laughing along with their antics. The neighborhood uncles and aunties were especially jolly, humoring them as they exchanged greetings with one another.
"Hey, now, take it easy with your merriness. The festival is already over. Why don't you save it for the next one?" ［Conrad］
"Sir Conrad! Why don't you come and join us this evening! I'm sure you'll enjoy it!"
"Yeah! It's a good time, Sir Conrad! I'm sure it'll be great."
"Hey... Are you guys even listening to me?" ［Conrad］
And just as they walked down the streets, they saw a familiar figure patrolling the streets, now dragged along by the merriness of the crowd. Even when he was on duty, they were inviting him to all sorts of occasions they could, jolly as little children.
He was quite the popular one. Not only the merry men and women, even the children were clinging on to him like little monkeys swinging on the tree branches. He was surrounded in all sides and corners, no room for escape.
"A-Ah! Y-Yourー" ［Conrad］
"Sir Conrad, play with us!"
"Hey! Unfair! I want to play with Sir Conrad too!"
Even when he saw Grey and Yuna passing around, he could barely finish his words, the children and merry folks interrupting him each and every time. A sight which only served to make Grey and Yuna chuckle and giggle to themselves.
Grey and Yuna could only wave their hands towards him, bidding him farewell with the silent smile of theirs. After all, if they were to let Conrad say a word, people would be crowding at them soon enough. It was unfortunate, but they had no other choice but to leave it to Conrad.
"Y-Yes! Safe travels, Youー Hey!" ［Conrad］
"Come on, now, Sir Conrad. You're too stiff!"
All the rowdiness aside, Grey and Yuna continued to walk down the merry streets, and before long, the gate was upon them. Like before, a scenery of colors as far as the eyes could see greeted them as the meadows opened up.
Whilst some flowers wilted away, many took their place and bloomed even brighter. Their petals danced to the tune of the winds as the breeze carried their sweet scent, the heads of rabbits popping up and down as they peeked out the tall grass.
The two continued walking down the path, horses and carriages passing them by. There were a lot of friendly faces along the way, soft chattering resounding in the air, clear as one can be like the morning bells as the sun rises.
Soon enough, they arrived at the very spot they sent off the Royal Family. It was still as peaceful as one can be, not a single animal to be seen aside from the little bugs and critters crawling about the ground and the tree trunks.
"Then, shall we head home, Milady?" ［Grey］
"Un! Let'sー Ah! Wait a minute, Grey!" ［Yuna］
Grey couldn't even reach his hands out when Yuna suddenly stopped him midway. There was now a brilliant glint in her eyes as she looked at him. The look of someone who just had an idea popped inside the pretty little head of hers. Grey knew her too well.
"Hm? Is something wrong?" ［Grey］
"No... I was just thinking... Since it's been so long since we've ran long distances, how about we run all the way back to Galderia?!" ［Yuna］
The young lady was smiling brightly and widely from ear to ear, but the same couldn't be said for Grey. Rather than excited, he was greatly flabbergasted, not knowing whether he should laugh or cry at Yuna's sudden and otherworldly suggestion.
He wanted to think that he simply heard it wrong, but with the heightened senses of a Transcendent, there was no way that was true. Especially when such blinding gleam sparkled in Yuna's eyes looking excited as one can be. He heard it right.
"Yuna... You do know that it's at least a thousand and a half kilometers from here to Galderia, right? That's not a small distance." ［Grey］
"Un! I know! That's why, let's have some fun!" ［Yuna］
There was no shaking her resolve, Yuna answering confidently as if her suggestion was nothing out of the ordinary. It only left Grey wondering where he went wrong in explaining it. A bit of color faded from his eyes.
While it's true that they have gotten incomparably stronger, such a distance was still no joke. It would take them the whole day to travel that far, arriving just a little before sunset if things go right, a long way from the familiar which would only take an hour or two, and the Gate which was instant.
Though, with how sparkly and expectant Yuna's eyes were, there was no way Grey could actually dare to decline her wishes. He would also love to spend as much time with her, having fun as much as they could.
The biggest problem was with Yuna's hoarding tendencies. If Grey couldn't stop her, forget a whole day, it might even take them two or three days to complete the whole journey. It was something Grey wanted to avoid at all costs.
"Haah... Alright, but under one condition. You, absolutely, must not, go and try to collect anything and everything you see. Is that clear?" ［Grey］
"Ehh?! Grey, that's unfair!" ［Yuna］
"No, I'm not bending on this one. It's this or nothing," ［Grey］
He was being strict, but he needed to set things straight before things took a turn for the worse. After all, they're going to get married one day. He can't always be swayed along the whims of his bride. It would be chaotic, otherwise.
"Uuu... Fine, but in exchange, lift my sugar ban for a whole month, okay? I'm also not bending on this one." ［Yuna］
"Yuna... You... When did you learn to be so cunning?" ［Grey］
"Teehee!" ［Yuna］
It wasn't long before Yuna agreed to Grey's term, of course, also adding a condition of her own. A mischievous smile was afloat on her beautiful face as she outsmarted Grey, giggling to herself like a little child who just did something silly yet naughty.
"Haah... Alright. I'll lift it for a month. Anything for my fiancée." ［Grey］
"Yaay～! You're the best, Grey!" ［Yuna］
The negotiations were quickly over, Yuna jumping into Grey's arms soon after. With how adorable Yuna was, a fool such as himself, Grey couldn't possibly deny her little request. She has already been munching on sweets anyway. What difference does lifting the sugar ban make?
Of course, they wouldn't be traveling alone by themselves. With a snap of their finger, their shadows soon quaked, summoning the familiars soon after, nine little balls of fur and fluff appearing out of thin air, eyes sparkling with eagerness as usual.
Furballs which soon turned into even bigger furballs as they changed sizes. They'll be running more than a thousand kilometers, after all. It would be quite difficult to run with their stubby little legs. They have become beautiful adult wolves.
"Waah～! So warm and fluffy～!" ［Yuna］
However, despite changing their size, many things remained the same. Examples of these would be their warmth and fluffiness, something Yuna was very much enjoying to the fullest as she buried her face on their soft and silky fur.
"Yuna, we'll really be behind schedule if you keep this up." ［Grey］
"Ehh... Just five more minutes, please～!" ［Yuna］
Kike a student not wanting to get off the bed, Yuna refused to let go of the familiars and continued to fluff them with a smiling face. Though, before they even noticed it, she had already climbed up Sirius, laying down on her back.
The young lady was now fully enjoying the familiar's warmth, almost forgetting about her own suggestion. Grey could only shake his head as he watched his silly fiancée, the familiars looking at them with warm eyes. It was his defeat, through and through.
"Then, everyone, we'll be your care once again." ［Grey］
"Rest assured, Master, we will accompany you all the way!" ［Canopus］
"That's right! We'll make sure to defeat everyone that stands in our way!" ［Vega］
"Hahaha. Thanks, everyone." ［Grey］
Thankfully, there were still the familiars to support him by his side. They were all excited as one can be, wanting to be useful to Grey and Yuna in any way that they can. Grey couldn't help but smile, looking at how eager they all were.
"Then, everyone, let's go!" ［Grey］
"""Yes!""" """Yeah!""" """Yeah～!"""
At Grey's signal, loud responses echoed in the forest, strong bursts of winds following them soon after, leaving clouds of dust at their wale and making the leaves rustled with every step they took. Their figures soon vanished into the distant horizon.
Yuna also didn't let herself simply laze around. As soon as everyone started moving, she quickly switched gears, jumped down, landed gracefully, and joined them at breakneck speeds, smiling ever so cheerfully as she ran by Grey's side.
Time elapsed and so did the distance between them and Galderia. Throughout the whole journey, Yuna keeped her word and didn't try to go pick a single herb she fancied, keeping herself under control even with all the temptation.
The crystal-clear rivers, the proud mountains, the expansive forests, the viridescent meadows, and so much more. They saw a lot of beautiful and jaw-dropping sights they wouldn't normally see if they simply used Gate back then.
Gurrrukkkk Kurrruiukkk Griiieeekkkk
Of course, it was to be expected that they met hostile and vicious monsters along the way, ranging from the weak goblins all the way to the all powerful variants of ogres and trolls, baring their fangs on them as soon as they saw them.
⟨⟨Gale Waltz⟩⟩ ［Grey］
⟨⟨Icicle Shotgun!⟩⟩ ［Yuna］
Well, not that they really mattered towards Grey and Yuna anyway. They simply had to raise their hands and the enemies, no matter the shape and size, were either sliced with wind blades or pierced with massive icicles, vanishing into mana soon after.
The familiars didn't lose out to them either. There was a dangerous glint in their eyes as they ripped their enemies apart with their razor-sharp claws and dagger-like teeth, tearing some in half as if they were some sort of flimsy paper.
Procyon and Achernar could only be thankful that they were running, otherwise, the other familiars would surely force them to consume all the corruption without leaving a single trace, like older siblings too overprotective of their youngest sisters.
Before long, the sun had finally sunk down the horizon. After having a lovely lunch and taking a little break, everyone then continued to run and bridged kilometers upon kilometers of distance in just a couple moments.
Just as the sun started to set over the horizon, the sky colored garnet, a familiar city was in view, walls higher than the trees and a long line of carriages and people lining up by the gates as the guards checked them one after another.
"Looks like we made it back." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! That was quite the fun journey, wasn't it?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, it was. Especially with such a refreshing breeze and wonderful scenery. It was amazing... We should do it again sometime." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! You can count me in on that." ［Yuna］
They inched closer and closer to the city, and as to not startle the city folks, Grey and Yuna unsummoned the familiars, letting them rest their shadows. They also started to tone down their speed, letting the dust settle down before them.
"Mmn... This surely takes me back to when we first came here. I can't believe it's been more than a year already. A lot of things have happened" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. And I still remember you were so nervous back then. Your hands were even trembling, weren't they?" ［Grey］
"Geez! Grey, there's no need to mention that, you know?" ［Yuna］
With excited smiles, they once again line up after everybody else, recalling the first time they came to the city and just thinking back on how many things have happened. It has been a wild ride, having many encounters and experiencing all sorts of things.
Though... They didn't really expect they would become heroes, and not just by one, but three whole countries at that. It was something totally unexpected, but it was also something they were thankful for. There were some downsides, but they met a lot of wonderful people through it.
The line continued to move and before long, it was finally Grey and Yuna's turn to hand their ids. And as if fate was playing with them, just as they were thinking about the past, a familiar figure inspected them like the before.
"Your IDー Oh! Grey! Yuna! You're back! It's been quite some time!" ［Dale］
"It's good to see you again too, Mister Dale." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! Good evening, Mister Dale. How have you been?" ［Yuna］
"Oh! I've been more than fine, thank you for asking. How about you? I heard you attended the Festival of Hearts this time around. How was it?" ［Dale］
It has only been a month yet it felt like they haven't seen each other for such a long time, greeting each other with such big smiles on their faces. It wasn't long before they started sharing stories with one another, catching up as much as they could.
Of course, what Dale was most interested in was the Festival of Hearts. Like many others, he hasn't attended it himself and only heard rumors about it. He as like a little child, nodding attentively as he listened to Grey and Yuna's tale about it,
"I see, I see, it's just as wonderful as I've heard from the rumors. I hope I can attend it someday. It's been a dream of mine." ［Dale］
"Well, the next one is still another nine years away, but, if it's alright with you, would you like to join us next time, Mister Dale?" ［Grey］
"Un! I'm sure it will be a lot of fun! Bring your family as well, Mister Dale!" ［Yuna］
"Oh! Then, I'll gladly take you up on that offer." ［Dale］
They were as cheerful as one can be, making promises to one another for the distant future. Well, it wasn't just Dale, Grey and Yuna were also planning to invite the others next time around, going out as a large coup once again. The more, the merrier.
Their chat continued to unfold, and they talked about various more things. Thankfully, though Dale was preoccupied with chatting to Grey and Yuna, the line wasn't as busy, only needing a couple guards to stand post and inspect the pedestrians.
"Well, I'm going back to work now, otherwise, my superiors are gonna scold me. Let's chat more when we have time. See you later, Grey, Yuna." ［Dale］
"Un! See you next time, Mister Dale～!" ［Yuna］
"Later, Mister Dale." ［Grey］
They waved their hands goodbye for the third time in the same day. As Grey and Yuna passed through the city gates, a very familiar sight greeted them, the people slowly cleaning up their things and closing their shops.
As the sun set over the horizon, the street and house lights lit up one after another, a series of noises filling the air as the doors closed and opened along the windows. The pillars of smoke rose in the air one after another as everyone prepared for dinner.
The city wasn't as lively as Erdea, nor was it as beautiful or colorful, yet despite all its flaws, Grey and Yuna felt very cozy and comfortable in such a place, people greeting them left and right as they passed by. It was home.
DONGGG DONGGG DONGGG
And as the final rays of sunlight disappeared over the horizon, the 5th bell of the day rang throughout the whole city. The shops closed subsequently and even more lights lit up. The city was slowly drifting to sleep by the passing of the moment.
"It's already six o'clock. Looks like we'll be having dinner later than usual." ［Grey］
"Ehh～?! But my tummy's already rumbling. I'm starving～." ［Yuna］
"And who was it that suggested we run all the way to Galderia? We could have prepared a warm dinner by now." ［Grey］
"Uuu... Sorry..." ［Yuna］
Apologized Yuna as her ears drooped down along her expressions. Meanwhile, Grey was only chuckling to himself, watching the different expressions unfold over his cute fiancée's face, holding her hands all the while.
For someone so smart, Yuna sometimes acts silly and forgetful. Cooking dinner wasn't their only option. With the coming of the night, various inns and restaurants have opened up for dinner. One was a place he especially missed.
"Hahahaha. Then, since it's already so late, shall we head to the Rabbit's Den? I've been missing Mister Gerd and Missus Selia's cooking." ［Grey］
"U-Un! Let's go! Let's do that!" ［Yuna］
Her mood bounced up like a little bunny rabbit. As soon as Grey said his words, her pointy elven ears twitched and perked up, an bright and radiant expression blooming on her face with eyes glimmering with excitement.
Such great excitement welling up in their hearts, Grey and Yuna headed towards the Rabbit's Den, the latter skipping her steps as her hums drifted in the air. It didn't take long before they arrived, a merry hall greeting them as they entered.
Cling Cling Cling
"A table for two please." ［Grey］
"Oh, sorry, but we're already full. Would the counters be fine?" ［Helen］
"Yeah, that's alright. And we'll also be having the usual." ［Grey］
"The usualー Ah! Grey! Yuna! I knew that voice sounded familiar!" ［Helen］
Her reactions were lively as usual. As soon as Helen saw Grey and Yuna, she then quickly dropped the tray she was holding onto and gave the two of them a tight hug, bright and relieved expressions dyed on her face.
She has been a little worried after Yuna's consultation quite a while back, but seeing the two of them enter the same as usual, it seemed like everything went right. She is very happy, unable to control the smile on her beautiful face.
"Yuna, I'm glad everything turned out rightー Hm?" ［Helen］
Helen was so happy, she quickly grabbed Yuna by the hands, holding it tightly. Well, she was holding it tightly, when she suddenly felt something strange latched onto her friend's hand, opening it soon with curiosity in her eyes.
There was a ring, and not just any ring, it was one of the most beautiful rings she's ever seen, blue and violet to be seen. She had seen Yuna wear many rings before, but not one so beautiful. Moreover, it was on her ring finger. Her eyes were filled with confusion as she looked at the couple before her.
"This ring... What is this...?" ［Helen］
"Umm... Well, that... G-Grey and I are now engaged... I guess..." ［Yuna］
"Eh?" ［Helen］
The young elf was blushing profusely, scratching her flustered cheeks all the while. She had announced it before, but for some reason, she felt much more embarrassed right now. As for Helen, she was frozen, head filled with question marks, and...
"Eh?... Ehhh...?... Ehhhh?!! You're now engaged?!!" ［Helen］
Now, that's more like Helen. After her mind processed what Yuna just announced, a loud, deafening scream echoed all throughout the inn. It was one which easily caught the attention of many, all eyes swimming towards their direction.
"Mom! Dad! Grey and Yuna are now engaged!" ［Helen］
"A-Ah! Helen, not so loudー" ［Yuna］
"Let's cook more food! Let's celebrate!" ［Helen］
It was no use. Yuna tried to stop the excited and flustered Helen, but it was already far too late. Helen had gone and announced their engagement throughout the whole inn with such a loud and booming voice.
Soon enough, cheers and applause echoed from the crowd, happily congratulating Grey and Yuna whom they have been acquainted with. Their fans were especially rowdy, squealing like choking bunnies, unable to keep the excitement to themselves.
"Hahaha. Looks like we still have a long night ahead of us..." ［Grey］
"Uuu... So embarrassing..." ［Yuna］
The night continues...
CHAPTER 292 END