"Mmn～! Mmn～! Hmmn～!" ［Grey］
The sky was blue as ever, the sound of a young man humming drifting along with the chirping of the birds and the sweet fragrance of flowers. There was a bright yet gentle smile blooming on his face as he moved around his hands.
The sound of metals clacking, the heat of the kitchen, and the appetite-arousing smell of fresh dishes being cooked. Such a scene was a delight to be at, Grey slowly lifting the frying pan, soon transferring the cheesy egg omelettes towards a white plate.
"Hmm... I should cook some veggies, too..." ［Grey］
But the quest was yet to be over. After cooking the eggs, Grey then heated up the pan once more, drizzling a bit of oil as he added the chopped vegetables already prepared beforehand, adding a bit of meat and spices to the mix.
Grey continued to hum and the scent of the stir fried vegetables wafted all throughout the kitchen. The flames danced and the vegetables continued to sizzle. After a short taste test, yet another smile blossomed on Grey's face.
"Alright. This should do." ［Grey］
With that, lunch was served and the plates were served over the dining table. From omelettes, vegetables, fried fish, pork chops, beef stew, meatballs, vegetable salad, and fresh fruits, there was a variety of food on the table, all delicious as always.
Soon, the sound of running water rippled in the kitchen, Grey quickly cleaning up after himself with the use of magic, preparing some juice and selecting the desserts next. It was such a peaceful day, not a single disturbance to be seenー
BAANNNGGGGG
... Or at least, it was a peaceful day...
When suddenly, a silver-haired elf slammed the door hard, making such an abrupt boom ring throughout the whole house. Her eyes were sparkling ever so brightly as she headed towards Grey with a certain something on her hands.
"Grey, please check!" ［Yuna］
Of course, what was on her hands was one of the cosmetic products Helen asked of her just the other day. She has been cooped up inside her laboratory most of the time and only heading out when she needs to rest or eat.
Grey also helped out the young lady develop the products yet never did he think she would finish the products so quickly. Just as what one should expect from a Tier-8 Alchemist, one of the best in the whole world.
"Grey, hurry! Hurry!" ［Yuna］
"Alright, alright, just stop pushing me. The desserts' gonna spill at this rate." ［Grey］
"A-Ah, sorry..." ［Yuna］
The young lady quickly stopped shaking Grey, but her eyes remained sparkly all the same. Grey then put down the desserts he just made, wiping his hands soon after before peering through the cosmetic product with "Judgement".
⟨⟨Appraisal⟩⟩ ［Grey］
----------------------------------
[Item]
[Name] Vanilla-scented Liriola Healing Lotion
[Grade] High
[Description]
A lotion made from Kalkia grass, Liriola extracts, fresh milk, and herbal oils. It has a rejuvenation effect when applied to the skin which allows it to become soft, bouncy, and young again whilst healing any damages and wounds in just a few hours after application. It also allows the skin to retain moisture and a fresh glow, and also protect it from damages for a long duration. The perfect lotion for the skin.
-----------------------------------
Surely enough, it was one of the most effective lotions Grey had seen, in fact, it was too effective, it was scary. If celebrities and rich people back on Earth saw such a description, they would surely fight over it like wild and rabid dogs.
Once again, Grey realized how amazing alchemy was, and of course, his fiancée too. His fiancée who was now looking at her with expectant and excited eyes, jumping up and down as she awaits Grey's words. She was just too adorable.
"What could I say... It's perfect." ［Grey］
"Really?! Yaay～! I did it! I finally did it!" ［Yuna］
Yuna hopped like a little rabbit as she extended her delicate arms out, cheering ever so happily. If one were to see her and hear her, they would surely think she had been working on such a project for such a long time when it has only been a couple of days.
After she hopped up and down, she then skipped her steps and hummed ever so happily as she held the lotion she just made. And soon, she then looked at Grey, such bright eyes staring towards her fiancé, wanting to be praised.
"You did good, Yuna. I'm really proud of you." ［Grey］
There was no need to hesitate. As soon as he saw such eyes looking at him, he then extended one of his hands out and patted Yuna' s head ever so softly, his sweet and gentle words ringing in her pointy ears.
"Then, time to get my reward～!" ［Yuna］
"Hey, Yuna, wash your hands and change your clothes first. They're already dirty from your work. I'm not going to give you desserts otherwise," ［Grey］
"Okay～!" ［Yuna］
But perhaps what Yuna was the most excited of was the plentiful and scrumptious lunch Grey made for the two of them. Her stomach was just starting to rumble so it was the perfect time. It was time to reap the rewards of her hard work.
Like lightning cruising across the stormy sky, Yuna swiftly took a hot bath, changed clothes, and fixed herself. It didn't even take her 10 minutes yet she was as elegant and beautiful as ever, a mild yet fragrant scent filling the air with her steps.
Well, it wasn't just the scent. Her hair, her skin, her lips, and every little thing about her somehow looked more stunning. She was already beautiful as he was, but now, she was on a completely different level. She was a goddess!
"Hm? Did you use the products you just made?" ［Grey］
"Un! I also made some myself, and I thought I'd give them a try as a trial of sorts. I still have to see it for myself, after all." ［Yuna］
"I see... That does make sense..." ［Grey］
"A-And... I also want to look more beautiful for you... How is it...?" ［Yuna］
Shock struck Grey's mind like a lightning bolt dropped from the skies. With her silky and glossy hair, rosy and flustered cheeks, plump, red lips, pearly and bouncy skin, and, of course, her upturned eyes, she was beautiful as one can be! A critical hit!
In fact, it was so destructive, Grey's heart almost stopped for a moment. And that was still when she hadn't done her makeup yet. The moment that she does, he could only imagine how powerful her attacks would be. Grey's heart would run into an error.
"You're beautiful... Too beautiful, actually... It might be hard to hold myself back if you continue acting this cutely. Let's stop for now, yeah?" ［Grey］
"A-Ah! Un! I-It's still the middle of the day, after all!" ［Yuna］
"Yuna... You didn't have to expound on that..." ［Grey］
Sweet, awkward, and rosy. Such was the atmosphere looming over the room as the idiot couple got embarrassed from their own doing. They soon headed towards the dining table and had a lovely and hearty lunch together.
With the sun climbing down from its zenith, it was finally time to head to the Rabbit's Den and present the finished products to Helen. Yuna was especially excited, smiling ever so cheerfully as she held Grey's hand tightly, twirling like a little child.
Cling Cling Cling
Soon after, they finally arrived at the inn, the soft chimes ringing over their heads once again. Since lunch had just passed, there were barely any people around, only a couple familiar faces to be seen, one especially brighter than the other.
"Yuna, you're here!" ［Helen］
"Un! We're here～! And look what I brought～!" ［Yuna］
"Waah～! Are these the products?! So fast! Hasn't it only been two days?!" ［Helen］
"Fufufu! It's for Helen, after all! Of course, I'll do my best!" ［Yuna］
"Yuna...!" ［Helen］
There was only excitement in the air, two cheerful figures embracing one another with glee on their faces. Though, the same couldn't be said for Grey who now felt as if he was invisible as he watched his fiancée and friend greet each other so happily.
"Ah! Hello too, Grey! How have you been?!" ［Helen］
"Sure are excited, aren't you?" ［Grey］
"Hehehe! I've been waiting, after all!" ［Helen］
It was a bit late, but a greeting was still a greeting no less. Grey and Yuna soon took their usual seats by the counter, Owen, Gerd, and Selia greeting them soon after. The only difference now was that they weren't there for a meal.
And things just couldn't get any better. With Selia around, they could get a second opinion from their product, who was conveniently from a different age group. It was small, but two was still better than one.
Inside the bag Grey and Yuna brought, there were shampoo and conditioner, lotions, a few lipstick, facial cream, moisturizers, powders, and many more. All of which were of High-Grade as proven by Grey's appraisal.
"Ohh... I did hear that Yuna was a high-ranking alchemist, but I never thought I'd see such products with my own eyes... How fascinating..." ［Owen］
"Mmn～! They smell good as well! Like premium perfumes!" ［Helen］
"Oh my, these are quite nice. I can't wait to try them." ［Selia］
"I don't really get it, but they don't smell overwhelmingly like the others. I think these will sell quite well." ［Gerd］
Everyone gave different kinds of reactions and made different sorts of expressions, but they were all positive. For a first impression, it was already more than good enough, Yuna smiling brightly from ear to ear.
She soon started explaining what effects the products would have on them, Helen and Selia's jaws dropping to the ground as soon as they heard. They first thought they were just hearing things, but clearly, they were not.
There was a little bit of doubt at first, but after Yuna showcased how effective the products were using herself as a reference, they were quickly blown away. They weren't just miracles, the products were God-sent! They were just that amazing!
"Amazing... To think they'd have so many properties... I'm beyond words..." ［Selia］
"It's hard to believe it even when I've seen it with my own eyes,.." ［Helen］
Commented Helen as she looked back and forth between the products and Yuna. She already knew something was different the moment they came in, but to think it was all because of the new products... She was surprised.
"These really are amazing, but... Can we really have these...?" ［Selia］
"Un! Of course! Consider it our thanks for everything! You're always there to help us, after all! This much is nothing!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! Then we'll gracefully accept these presents. Thank you, Yuna." ［Selia］
Not only Selia, Helen soon thanked Yuna afterwards, hugging her once more. There was only excitement in their faces as they looked forward to using the products after a long day of work, smiles floating everywhere.
And just as the mother and daughter combo was celebrating their newfound allies, Gerd and Owen's eyes soon swam towards Grey and Yuna's direction. They didn't even have to say anything, the two could already tell what such looks would entail.
"Is there anything you want to say, Mister Gerd, Owen?" ［Yuna］
"Ah, well... This might be bothersome, but... You don't happen to have something against hair loss, do you?" ［Gerd］
"Umm... For me, I was just wondering if I could have some of the lotion as well... My skin has kind of been dry as of late..." ［Owen］
It wasn't just the women, the men as well would also like to look their best. Be it for themselves or for those they love, there was nothing wrong with wanting to improve oneself. Such a thought only served to make the two smile warmly.
"Of course! Though, it might take some time. I'll have to see first the results from Missus Selia and Helen, after all." ［Yuna］
"Oh! That's alright! I'm more than happy to wait!" ［Gerd］
"The same here, I'm looking forward to it." ［Owen］
Embarrassing as it was, there was no need to be shy when asking Yuna for help. In exchange, Gerd offered the two a discount at dinner which they happily accepted. Yet another reward for the young lady's hard work.
Just like that, time passed by quickly and tomorrow finally arrived. It was finally time to head back to the Rabbit's Den again and see the results of their hard work. Grey and Yuna's footsteps echoed in the air.
It was still early in the morning, breakfast just over. As Grey and Yuna entered the inn, the soft chimes rang once more. There was Gerd and Owen by the counter, taking their breaks and waiting for the ladies to finish their business.
"Morning, Mister Gerd, Owen. How's the day going?" ［Grey］
"Yeah, good morning..." ［Gerd］
Though... As it seems, one of the men was already tired even though the day had barely started. He sighed and he sighed, eyes looking far into the distance as if his mind wasn't there with them.
Unlike Owen, Gerd had seen the effects of the cosmetic products the day before when his wife and daughter used it. Yuna had already explained it yet he still wasn't able to prepare for himself. It was shocking nevertheless.
"Did something go wrong with the products, Mister Gerd?" ［Yuna］
"No, rather... It was too effective. I was so shocked last night, I could barely sleep. Selia looked like she got younger by a few years..." ［Gerd］
"Eh...? Stop exaggerating, Mister Gerd." ［Yuna］
"Haah... I wish I was... Why don't you see for yourself?" ［Gerd］
It was like Grey had expected. He already told Yuna the full effects of the products, it seems like she has yet to fully grasp its effectiveness. It wasn't really evident with her since she was young, but the effects would surely show for someone older.
Meanwhile, Owen was also anticipating how Helen would look once she finished. His hands were trembling a little and his heart was beating hard, cold sweat dripping down his forehead.
"Hahaha. I never thought I'd see you this nervous, Owen." ［Grey］
"Well, I'm just preparing my heart, you see..." ［Owen］
"Then, good luck on that front. I hope you survive." ［Grey］
"Yeah... I hope so as well..." ［Owen］
Grey had experienced such a destructive attack first hand so he knew full well how much damage it could cause to the heart, mind, and soul. The moment they see the figures of their beloved would be the moment their sanity would be tested.
"Sorry for the wait～! Did we take too long?" ［Helen］
"Helen, you're too excited." ［Selia］
Before long, the ladies finally walked down the hallways, bells ringing inside Gerd and Owen's minds the moment they laid their eyes on them, time seeming to stop as they gazed upon their beloved.
Such smooth and silky hairs, such beautiful and youthful skins, such refreshed faces, and the absence of lines and wrinkles which had grown over the years. One could easily tell the difference between now and yesterday.
To them, the ladies were already the most beautiful women in their lives, but seeing such a drastic change, they couldn't help but stare at them, falling deeper and deeper into the inescapable abyss called love.
"Owen... You're staring too much..." ［Helen］
"A-Ah, sorry... You just look so gorgeous, I couldn't help it... Sorry..." ［Owen］
"No, it's okay... I'm glad you think that..." ［Helen］
Oh, how sweet young love was. They have been dating for quite some time already, yet before the power of alchemy, it felt like they just started going out, feeling shy and flustered around one another, hearts beating aloud.
"What do you think, Dear?" ［Selia］
"Do I even need to say it out loud? Of course, you also look beautiful! You're my wife, after all." ［Gerd］
"Fufufu! This sure takes me back." ［Selia］
Even the parents, Gerd and Selia, couldn't help but get sweet and sappy on their own. It felt like they were back to the times when they were just newlyweds. Not as sweet as Grey and Yuna though. Those two were just on another level.
They have already seen and felt the effects for themselves, but Selia and Helen could still hardly believe it was so effective. They pinched their now soft and bouncy cheeks just to make sure, and sure enough, it was not a dream.
"Thank you very much, Grey, Yuna. I never thought I would feel this young again. It really is a miracle." ［Selia］
"Yeah, thanks so much, Yuna～! I love you～!" ［Helen］
"Helen, stop it... That's embarrassing..." ［Yuna］
They were expressing their gratitude, that's for sure. The only problem was that Helen got too excited and expressed it in such a loving way, embracing Yuna as tightly as she could without a single care in the world, smiling ever so happily.
"Hm? Should I give you a kiss on the cheeks too?" ［Helen］
"Helen, stop it... Don't make things any more complicated." ［Grey］
"Eh? It's only a light peck though, and we're both girls so it's okay! Plus! I already have a boyfriend so there's no deeper meaning to it!" ［Helen］
"That makes it even worse. Don't recreate the things you read in your novels here, especially not on my fiancée. I won't make you any more sweets if you do." ［Grey］
Though Helen wasn't entirely wrong, as a kiss were but a simple greeting in other cultures, Grey doesn't want to deal with such antics. They already have their hands filled with Vanessa's obnoxious antics, one more would be a total headache for them.
Thankfully, Grey always has a reliable trump card to rely on. Just like Yuna, Helen also fell too deep in the abyss of sweets Grey had laid out for them. All efforts were futile, Grey has the upper hand.
"Mmn～! I can't wait to brag this to Tilda. I'm sure she'll be surprised!" ［Helen］
"Fufufu! I'm sure our neighbors will be asking about it too." ［Selia］
"Right! Are you going to start selling these, Yuna, Grey?" ［Helen］
"Eh...?!" ［Yuna］
To Helen's words, Grey and Yuna flinched, a cold shiver running down their spines. Suddenly, a large problem showed itself before them, one they wouldn't be able to surpass so easily with the current situation at hand.
Though it's true that consumables cost way less than equipment, and daily products such as cosmetics and the like are at the lower end, they are still High-Grade items, ones which cost a couple thousand kiels at very least.
To the common folk who usually earns more or less a hundred kiels a day, such an expense would be scary, terrifying even. Even with how effective it was and how good the results are, only merchants and nobles would be able to afford them.
It totally wasn't because Grey and Yuna didn't want to deal with the paperworks that they are trying to make excuses for putting the product on the market, no not at all. They were just being considerate of the consumers... Yes, considerate...
"Umm,.. Is there anything wrong, you two?" ［Helen］
"No, it's justー" ［Grey］
Cling Cling Cling
"Selia, we're here～!"
The timing couldn't be any better. Just when Grey and Yuna were about to be driven into a corner, Selia's neighborhood auntie friends suddenly dropped by the inn to hang out. They just finished their work, and so, their hands were free as one can be.
"Oh my! Selia, what cosmetics did you use?! You look so young!"
"And the wrinkles... They've all disappeared too!"
"Selia, did you find the fountain of youth?! Please tell us!"
It was just like Selia had predicted. The very moment her friends saw how different she looked, they immediately crowded over her, eyes looking like that of wild and starving predators who were just about to pounce on their prey.
Well, it wasn't just Selia they were crowding around. Helen tried to escape quietly, but she couldn't even take a couple steps when suddenly, a hand reached out to her shoulders, dragging her back to the conversation. With it, the previous topic had been forgotten. They couldn't be any thankfulー
"I-If you want to ask any question, then please ask Grey and Yuna. They're the ones who made all of these!" ［Helen］
... Well, they were thankful at first. Gratitude which soon vanished as soon as Helen pointed her fingers towards them. That very moment, the eyes of the ladies shone a sharp and dangerous glint, terrifying smiles on their faces.
"Lord Grey, Lady Yuna, can we have a little bit of your time, please～?"
"Yes. We promise it won't take too long～."
"We're only curious. That's all."
Their words were not to be trusted. Though they were smiling from ear to ear, their eyes begged to differ. Grey and Yuna felt very cold chills run down their spines, a sense of fear looming in their hearts.
『Yuna... I think it's about time for you to learn about running a business. This is for your own good, Good luck.』 ［Grey］
『Eh...?』 ［Yuna］
What followed after desperation was betrayal. Yuna couldn't even defend herself when Grey suddenly pushed her towards the pack of hungry wolves before them, only pointing up his thumb as a sign of good luck.
Without any preparations, Yuna was thrown towards the wolves, surrounding her as fast as lightning, not letting her escape in any way. They soon launched a volley of questions towards her, bombarding her without any mercy.
『Grey...! I hate you...!』 ［Yuna］
The young lady's thoughts rang out in the air, tears trickling down her beautiful face. The betrayal she felt was unlike any other, cursing Grey even though she loves him. She was left all alone in a den of predators.
In a few days, she will face the greatest challenge of her life yet, a mountain of files and folders waiting for her in the Merchants' Guild. A true nightmare, but... That's a story for another day.
CHAPTER 297 END