The wind was silent and so was the fields, only subtle whistles to be heard. A lone figure stood in the middle of a charred wasteland, a light shower of gold and crystals raining down upon him, silent thuds resounding as they hit the ground.
Like a fleeting shadow, there was no sound to be heard, another figure arriving at the scene. Her hair was silver and her eyes were blue, not making a single noise with the steps she took, now smiling ever so happily like a little child.
"Well, someone's in a good mood." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! That's because I was able to let some steam out!" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, and you also froze the field while you were at it, didn't you?" ［Grey］
"A-Ah... That's because I got a little carried away..." ［Yuna］
There was no denying it. Though she tried to hold herself back, she was simply too excited to mind the little details. She already figured out Grey would cover the city with a barrier so there was no need for holding back. She simply wreaked havoc.
Well, it's not like she made much of a difference anyway. The plains were are already charred and cratered from the familiars' merciless barrage. Freezing a small portion of it wouldn't matter in the grand scale of things.
What's most important was that the threat has now been eliminated. Though it may be difficult on Earth, restoring the terrain in Merusia is a little different. With Grey, Yuna, and the familiars there, it would be a piece of cake.
"It's alright. I'm not scolding you. We can just restore it anyway." ［Grey］
"U-Un! That's right! We could just use magic!" ［Yuna］
"Master, Mistress, should we help you out?!" ［Vega］
And just as their conversation was about to reach its conclusion, the familiars finally came back, triumphant looks on their faces. It's been some time since they had to battle against so many opponents. It was good to warm their bodies up.
Though... The same couldn't be said for Procyon and Archernar. Being the youngest and weakest in the family, the others, albeit oppressively, fed them all the corruption which leaked out after defeating their enemies. Especially Vega, she was simply on another level.
Even Rigel, who was just a few minutes older than them, was on board with feeding them. He graciously thanked the heavens above that he was summoned an S-rank. Otherwise, he would also be subject to the other's "pampering".
"Hmm... Not yet. But it would be really helpful if you could collect the drops for us. Could we ask you of that, everyone?" ［Grey］
"Un! And can you separate any materials I could use for alchemy, please?" ［Yuna］
"Your will is our command, Master, Mistress." ［Sirius］
"Yeah! We'll make sure to tidy this place up!" ［Canopus］
"Please rest assured, Master, Mistress. We will make sure to not leave even a single item behind." ［Arcturus］
There was no time to waste. As soon as Grey and Yuna issued their requests, the familiars then moved quickly and started gathering. Of course, as their massive true forms would be a bother, they all opted for a smaller one like those of wolves.
It wasn't just normal gathering too. Rigel used a large bubble of water to gather them whilst Vega used vines and Achernar used the shadows. They all used magic to do every little thing, trying to be as efficient as possible.
"Fufufu! Everyone sure is energetic." ［Yuna］
"Yeah. Though... Some are just a little too energetic, aren't they?" ［Grey］
They were just like dogs whose leashes have been taken off, running around the place and picking up all sorts of things. Especially now that they're in their adult wolf forms, they looked even more like dogs. Grey and Yuna couldn't help but laugh to themselves, watching them warmly.
"An S-rank party... Aster... Galderia... You must be Your Highnesses, Archduke Grey and Archduchess Yuna, I presume?" ［Lt. Commander］
Just as they watched them, the sound of footsteps echoed nearby. They had already noticed them drawing near, but they never thought they would be so direct, marching towards them with confidence and dignity.
One of them was an old man in his fifties, a large scar in one of his eyes and a sword by his side. The other was a woman who, even with her relatively small height, held a massive greatsword by her side, lifting it no problem.
"Yeah, that's correct." ［Grey］
"Hahaha! To think we'll meet the revered heroes when we've resolved ourselves to die. The name's Ayla, Ayla Narson. This branch's Guildmaster." ［Ayla］
"And my name is Roderick Harpen, a Lt. Commander and the Head of the Knights of the Elsnare Marquisate. It's a great pleasure to be in your presence." ［Roderick］
The two soon bowed their heads and greeted Grey and Yuna. Even now, when they were still standing there, they couldn't help but feel their hearts tremble at the presence of such beings, still in awe of the prowess they just showed.
"Please raise your heads. And it's also a pleasure to meet you two." ［Grey］
"Un. It's nice to meet you too, Sir Roderick, Miss Ayla." ［Yuna］
Meanwhile, Grey and Yuna only looked at them curiously, Grey appraising them and sharing the information to Yuna soon after. They have already gotten used to such a sight, not feeling as uncomfortable as before.
They soon shook one another's hands, Roderick and Ayla feeling a sense of relief that the two were just as good of a person as they've heard. Rumors can sometimes be twisted, after all.
"This may be late, However, I would like to express my gratitude. If it weren't for Your Highnesses, the city could have crumbled down in an hour or two." ［Roderick］
"No need to be so formal. We only performed as we were requested. This is our job as adventurers. This is what we're meant to do." ［Grey］
"Grey's right. If anything, you're much more honorable for putting your lives on the line. You're the real heroesー" ［Yuna］
Yuna stopped talking, both her and Grey flinching. They were so engrossed by the quest, they have completely forgotten about one thing. And not just anything, it was something which could very well mean trouble for the two of them... Being heroes...
The first time, when they destroyed Iblis, the second, when they stopped the monster flood near Torvis, and the third when they participated against the flood in Kosalvier against the army of undead. They already received three Medals of Honor in total.
Now, they're at risk of receiving yet another medal. They have completely forgotten about how generous the monarchs were. They might be able to avoid an awarding ceremony, but not the spreading of their names any further. So troublesome.
『Grey... We messed up, didn't we?』 ［Yuna］
『Yeah... That we did...』 ［Grey］
There was no use regretting it. Even if their names spread even further, it would only really affect them if they decided to show themselves in the open. Only one thing's for sure. King Ernes would surely ask them of the details again. Trouble is up ahead.
"Your Highnesses... Is something the matter...?" ［Roderick］
"No... We were just thinking of something... And, right. How do we go about the signing of the completion of the quest?" ［Grey］
"There is no need to worry about that, Your Highnesses. As you have completed it, His Majesty will only need to send a message to the Guild. Lt. Commander Roderick and I will stand as your witnesses." ［Ayla］
Normally, they would need a mana signature from the requester to make sure the quest was complete, but since it was an emergency quest posted by the King, his words would suffice as proof as soon as news reached him.
The City of Farlyle may not have a Warp Gate (changed from teleportation gate), but they still have communication orbs which can send messages to long distances. As soon as the message is relayed to the capital, the completion of the requests would also be approved as well.
In fact, even as they speak, Roderick had already tasked one of the soldiers to inform the Lord that the crisis had been averted. It wouldn't even be surprising if the Lord is already contacting at the moment.
"I see... That's a relief thenー" ［Grey］
"Master, we have already gathered everything." ［Sirius］
"Oh, good jobー Ah, it's alright if we take the loot, right?" ［Grey］
"Hahaha. That much is obvious. You were the ones who did all the work, after all, Your Highnesses." ［Roderick］
They have simply swooped down and taken all the honor, but neither Roderick nor Ayla minded it. They were only thankful that they were able to live to see yet another day. Who knew they would experience such a roller coaster of emotions.
Meanwhile, Grey reached out his hands to store the items in his "Inventory". And as requested, the familiars also separated the alchemy ingredients Yuna could use later on. She then happily stored it up in her storage ring, the familiars melting back to their shadows.
"Then, since we still have some things to do, we'll be taking our leave now." ［Grey］
"Take care of yourselves, everyone. Until next time." ［Yuna］
"Much appreciated and safe travels, Your Highnesses." ［Roderick］
Grey and Yuna then turned around and rode on Sirius' backー or so they were about to, when they once again remembered something important, their eyes lingering on the ruined wastelands which were black and brown all over.
"Right... We almost forgot..." ［Grey］
⟨⟨ ⟨⟨Nature's Grace⟩⟩ ⟩⟩ ［Grey and Yuna］
Their words riding along the winds, Grey and Yuna extended their arms and a fresh wind blew all over the fields. With Vega and Cappella's help from the shadows, the broken and cratered ground started to tremble, the winds dancing along it.
The once shattered grounds quaked once more, fixing itself as shelves of rock rose and sunk, recreating a mostly flat and leveled terrain much like the one etched on Grey's memories, boulders, little pebbles popping out here and there.
Soon after, the grasses started to grow, devouring the plains whole like a surging wave which couldn't be stopped, a tsunami of green grasses spreading like wildfire. The scent of grass soon danced in the air, its blades dancing by the fresh breeze.
The sheets of ice were thawed and the scars and burns from the battle were healed. It was just like the advent of spring, only more beautiful and more magical, weeds and bushes sprouting from the ground as their lives bloomed.
"This is an apology for destroying the plains. We did some renovations here and there. We Hope you like it." ［Grey］
Grey and Yuna didn't simply recreate the place, they also added a bit of a touch from Erdea, flowers of all colors growing here and there. The once grassy plains were now turned into somewhat of a flowering meadow, life blooming everywhere.
Roderick and Ayla weren't experts on plant magic, nor do they know one. All they knew was that what was unfolding them was something not just everyone could do. They stood there in awe, mesmerized by such beautiful and magical scenery.
"It's beautiful, Your Highnesses..." ［Roderick］
"Yes. I didn't think I would see such a wonderful sight near Farlyle. It seems like I'll have to visit every so often." ［Ayla］
"Hahaha. That's good to hear." ［Grey］
The couple simply wanted to fix what they've broken, but they never thought they'd get such reactions out of it. Though, it wasn't a bad thing. If anything, it was great. They are now even more excited to create their own meadow.
"Then... Until next time!" ［Grey］
As suddenly as they appeared, they vanished soon after. As Sirius flapped her wings, strong gusts enveloped the fields, the flowers swaying as leaves and pollen danced in the air. A platinum shine glimmered once again as Sirius soared in the sky
It would have been much faster if they simply used "Gate", but since they were in a hurry before, they didn't get a chance to observe the wonderful scenery. As per Yuna's request, they then flew in the air, watching the world unfold.
Just like that time passed, and after another couple hours, the city of Galderia loomed over the horizon. They soon landed and dashed straight ahead. They simply passed through the line, heading towards the guild soon after.
Surprisingly, even when they were already nearby, there was no cacophony of noises from the adventurers and staff panicking. If anything, there was only merry laughter, not a single word of worry to be heard.
"We're back." ［Grey］
Laughter which soon quelled as soon as Grey and Yuna made their entrance. All eyes were suddenly on them, the Guildmaster waiting up front. Though, unlike the time of the Orc Horde subjugation quest, he wasn't even nervous.
"I've already heard from the headquarters. It seems like an S-rank quest is no big deal to you two, huh?" ［Gaston］
"Hahaha! Of course! They're the heroes, after all!"
"The strongest in Galderia! That's the Grim Reaper and the Phantom for ya!"
Apparently, the message has already arrived in the guild and their quest has mostly been processed. All that's left is for Grey and Yuna to hand in their guild cards. With it, the completion of their first official, S-rank quest would be complete.
Grey and Yuna soon headed towards the counter and handed over their guild cards to Tilda, and with her quick fingers, she quickly got to work. Though, all the time... They couldn't help but notice the Guildmaster's stare.
"Umm... Is there something you need from us, Guildmaster?" ［Grey］
"Haah... It's really nothing much, but if it isn't too much trouble, could I ask you how much time it took you to eliminate the entire horde?" ［Gaston］
"Eh...? How long...?" ［Yuna］
"That's right... I'm just curious..." ［Gaston］
It was a strange request, but there was nothing wrong about telling him. It would have been hard to take note for other people, but with Grey's memory, it was no trouble at all. He just closed his eyes and counted, opening his mouth soon after.
"About six minutes, I guess?" ［Grey］
"Ooh!! I won, you bastards! Now, give me all your money!"
"F*ck! Dammit! I was so close! I knew I should have chosen the latter!"
"Argh! Why are the two of you so fast?! At least finish it after ten minutes are over!"
Grey said his piece and a loud clamor shook the guild, different expressions unfolding soon after. Some were smiling from war to ear, some were confused, and some were bawling their eyes out whilst greeting their teeth. It was chaos.
"Haah... I'm sorry you have to see this..." ［Gaston］
Apparently, after Grey and Yuna left, a couple adventurers tried betting whether they could eliminate the horde within ten minutes or not... Well, there were only a couple at first, but it soon got out of hand, now almost everyone in the guild is betting over it.
In reality, Grey and Yuna would have gotten a much faster time if they were a little bit more serious. If Grey so wanted it, he could have ended it in an instant with a single full power strike. Not that he could say that now... Everyone was far too excited...
They don't know whether they should be laughing, crying, or be angry over being bet on without their knowledge, but seeing how merry and rowdy everyone was, there was only so much they could do. They could only sigh in exasperation.
"Right, Grey, Yuna, did the boss drop something?" ［Larren］
At Larren's words, all eyes shifted back to them, sparkles of excitement glimmering deep inside. They were really such a rowdy and troublesome bunch. Even the Guildmaster has given up on them, shaking his head ever so subtly.
"Yeah... You can look at it if you want." ［Grey］
"Ohh!! This must be the 'Beast King's Fangs' I heard so much about!"
"Right! I heard it costs over 200 million kiels!"
"That's crazy! Isn't this super good then?!"
Everybody crowded towards the fang-like gauntlets Grey brought out. It was a High-Tier Superior-Grade weapon which every S-rank brawlers would pine for. Even those who aren't brawlers would look at it with such delight in their eyes.
Of course, that wasn't the only drop from the Apex Werebeast. It along the mana crystal, there was also the "Beast King's Heart" which costs well over a billion kiels. One which they already have a couple of after diving inside two Labyrinths already. Something troublesome to take out.
Though, thankfully, because they took it out, the attention of the adventurers were now shifted away from Grey and Yuna, allowing them to move freely. It's not like people could steal it from S-rank adventurers anyway.
"Right, I almost forgot. A message just arrived after you left. It's quite important so I suggest you open it right now." ［Gaston］
They just couldn't catch a break. After dealing with the Werebeast horde and the adventurers, Grey and Yuna now had to deal with another matter. The Guildmaster handed over a letter whilst returning their guild cards.
To make things worse, there was a very particular crest on the letter's seal. It was one they couldn't simply ignore like the others as it would be more troublesome otherwise. It was from the Graystone Royal Family.
...
To Archduke Grey and Archduchess Yuna,
It has been a while since we parted ways in Erdea, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna, and I could proudly say I enjoyed my time there with my family. Even though weeks have passed, I still couldn't forget the prowess you have shown against the Azure Sword Emperor. My heart quakes in trill every time I remember such a sight.
Well, I know you two hate formalities, so I would simply get straight to the point. I would like to invite you two over for a masquerade ball at our castle during the night of the 5th of Rubinus in celebration of the Carnival of Swords following it a week after. It would be the grandest celebration in the Kingdom.
It would be a great pleasure to have such honorable guests in our hall. I look forward to hearing from the both of you.
Sincerely,
Archen myr Lantre Graystone
...
It was an invitation from the King himself. Though he was being polite, it would spark some tension if they were to refuse the letter without any reasonable cause. With it, it was practically decided that they will be joining the ball.
Graystone... A kingdom located in the southernmost tip of the continent, bordered by Lindnart in the northwest, Ingrasia in the North, Caldella in the northeast, and the ocean all over it, often called the "Tail of Oiros".
Graystone is a kingdom which is not only known for its fishing industries but also its rich ore deposits. It has a very expansive influence on metals and jewelry nor just inside but outside the continent as well. A Kingdom which is even older than Alfrione.
"An invitation, huh... Great... We're going to a ball again..." ［Yuna］
"Well, not that we have much of a choice anyway." ［Grey］
"That's just how the political world is. You better get used to it." ［Gaston］
The Guildmaster was right. With their names spreading all over the continent, there would only be a few people who wouldn't know of them. And with the recent event, it would continue to spread some more. They need to be prepared.
Well, it wasn't just all bad news. With King Archen's invitation, Grey's gears started to grind once again. They also have an important business to attend to at the kingdom. Having a ball before it was no big deal.
『Yuna, would you like to go on another adventure?』 ［Grey］
『An adventure?』 ［Yuna］
『Yeah... It just so happens that the Labyrinth of Star at Graystone Kingdom is going to open soon. Do you wanna go?』 ［Grey］
There was no need to say more. Just looking at the sparkles gleaming out of her eyes, one could easily tell how thrilled Yuna was, barely able to hold it in, blood pumping and rushing with excitement and enthusiasm.
Yuna has been stuck in a bottleneck of S-rank for months already and it's just about time she moves forward. A few strong monsters would be plenty helpful, and where could they find such other than a Labyrinth?
Well, it wasn't just Yuna. Other than training themselves, Grey also had a few things to ask God of. Though it may be difficult to face the Boss, he will now have Yuna by his side to work with. It was the perfect opportunity!
『Un! Let's do that! Let's go! Let's go』 ［Yuna］
She was only talking telepathically yet her mouth curved into a smile in the most obvious of ways, ears flapping up and down with excitement. If they weren't in the public's eyes, she would have hopped up and down already
『Hahaha. How cute.』 ［Grey］
『Fuehh?! Why so suddenly?!』 ［Yuna］
Grey just couldn't help it. With how adorable his fiancée was, he just wanted to keep her to himself, wanting to spoil and pamper her if there was no tomorrow, a bright smile blooming on his face to which the Guildmaster could only tilt his head to.
"Then, Guildmaster, we'll be taking our leave now. We still have a ball to prepare for." ［Grey］
CHAPTER 299 END