"Lisa, we already talked about this..." ［Archen］
"But, Father! I'm already grown up! I can protect myself now!" ［Lisandra］
"No still means no. Not until you can prove yourself." ［Archen］
It was a sudden situation, awkwardness looming in the air as the King and the young lady argued with one another. The once merry group of knights were now silent as one can be, trying to ignore the argument between the two.
Of course, such awkwardness also applied to Grey and Yuna who now doesn't know what to do. They just had a long day, and they really don't want to be involved in such an argument. Let the family's matter be the family's matter.
"Father! I'm already a Mid-Ranker! And I am at the top of my peers! I assure you that I will not disgrace the name of the Royal Family!" ［Lisandra］
"This is not about the family's honor, it's about your safety. You know how fierce the competition is. You're still far too inexperienced." ［Archen］
"Then let me participate so I can gain experience!" ［Lisandra］
"And let you be in harm's way? That's the last thing I would do." ［Archen］
The King was stubborn and so was the young lady. It wasn't the first time such an argument occurred between them and it won't be the last either. Neither of them wanted to back down, fierce words bouncing here and there.
The young lady arguing with the King was none other than the Second Princess of the Kingdom, Lisandra myr Lantre Graystone, a tomboyish princess whose love for swords was just as strong as the knights of Avalon.
When Grey and Yuna met her back at Erdea, she was dressed in beautiful and silky garments, carrying herself primly and properly like a proper princess. But now, she was the complete opposite, even wielding a sword which could easily cut trees in half.
It wasn't just that. The Second Princess, much like Julius and Amelia, was a genius when it came to magic. She is now the top student of her class, being an E-ranker at such an age. She was already outstanding.
"I've said it before and I'll say it again... You still haven't proven yourself." ［Archen］
Yet no matter how outstanding she was, she was still not enough to her father's eyes, or rather, he was simply too overprotective of her. His words snared her heart, grit her teeth as she clenched her fists tightly.
Well, it was only natural. After all, the Carnival of Swords is a competition where many swordsmen from all over the continent. It was not a competition where children who barely knew how to fly could participate. An injury or two could be due if something wrong were to happen.
Of course, as it was a competition to test one's skills, there would be a myriad of high level barriers all over the place to limit one's strength. Even then, it is still dangerous to participate since experts would surely reign supreme in the competition.
"Then, what can I do to prove myself..." ［Lisandra］
"... It's simple... You just need to land a hit on me. If you could, no matter how weak, I will let you participate." ［Archen］
It was no different from telling the Princess to give up. The gap in strength between a B-Ranker and E-Ranker was like heaven and earth. No matter how much they try, the gap is simply too wide to be compensated by skills of items. It was impossible.
She may be a genius, but the King was even more. By the time she was the same age as she was, he was already a D-ranker, beating even his seniors in the academy and his adventurers companions. He was simply too domineering.
The King knew well how hard he was being to his daughter, but if it's for her safety, he could be hated by her. He just doesn't want anything happening to her. It was his duty as a Father to keep her safe.
"And, Lisandra... Aren't you forgetting to greet our guests?" ［Archen］
"Guests...?" ［Lisandra］
The King's eyes wandered towards Grey and Yuna's direction and the Princess' eyes followed soon after. There, she saw two familiar figures, now looking at them with awkward eyes, waving their hands slowly in silence.
"A-Ah! L-Lord Grey and L-Lady Y-Yuna... G-Good to see you again." ［Lisandra］
"Fufufu! Good to see you again, Princess Lisandra. It's been quite some time.mHow have you been?" ［Yuna］
"I-I have been well, thank you... A-And... S-Sorry for showing you such a sight... Please forget what just happened..." ［Lisandra］
The once feisty princess was now meek and flustered like a little lamb. No matter how rowdy and tomboyish she was, she was still a princess, and a princess needed to maintain her dignity. Now, she was as red as one can be.
Princess Lisandra already knew that Grey and Yuna would be coming, but she didn't think she would meet them at the training grounds. Moreover, she also admired them like the others, it was especially embarrassing to let them see such a side of her.
First, it was Iris, and now, Lisandra. It sure was interesting to see the different sides of the princesses when they are not in the public's eyes. It was like they were totally different people, personalities contrasting like day and night.
"Don't worry, Princess Lisandra. We didn't see anything at all." ［Grey］
"Yes... Thank you for your understanding..." ［Lisandra］
They probably won't forget her actions anytime soon, but the least they could do was appease her. It's not like they're the type to gossip about others anyway. Her secret was safe with the two of them, locked deep in their hearts.
"Then, since our business is finished here, shall we take our leave, Lord Grey? Lady Yuna? I would like to take you around the castle." ［Archen］
"Wait! Father! We're stillー" ［Lisandra］
"Lisandra myr Lantre Graystone! The decision is already final! You will not be participating in the Carnival of Swords!" ［Archen］
The King's loud voice boomed all throughout the training field and the princess was stopped on her tracks. She could only lower her head in silence and resignation, her clenched fists now trembling ever slightly, not meeting her father in the eyes.
It was yet another fail. Lisandra had already tried countless times to convince her father, but all her efforts haven gone into fruition yet. She could only give up for now, a feeling of guilt brewing deep inside the King's heart.
"Lisa, please understand. This is for your own good." ［Archen］
"Yes, Father..." ［Lisandra］
"Then, we will be taking our leave. Take your rest and have something to eat in the kitchen. Don't tire yourself too much." ［Archen］
"Yes..." ［Lisandra］
She was being responsive but there was barely any life in her voice and eyes. The King couldn't help but worry, however, he must let her be for her own growth. After all, he won't always be by her side. She needs to learn how to be independent.
"Then, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna, shall we go around the castle? I will make sure you have the best memories of Graystone." ［Archen］
"We're looking forward to it, Your Majesty." ［Grey］
The King leading them, Grey and Yuna soon headed out of the training grounds and into the main castle grounds, leaving Lisandra and the Royal Guards behind, the latter continuing their training regime whilst the former heading out soon after.
Grey and Yuna already received a tour from Galahad when they headed out of the training grounds, but it was not as in-depth as the King did. Not only the way to the training grounds, but all the important places as well. He did not miss a single one.
The gardens, the greenhouses, the library, the kitchen, the main hall, the parlors, the offices, the special training grounds, the many halls and corridors, the throne room, their soon-to-be quarters, and many more. An extensive tour was what it was.
They already expected it, but the amount of decoration swords in the castle was really something. Every room practically had one, and even the kitchen had a rapier for some reason. It was one which only made them more confused if anything.
They even had a "Garden of Glory", which as one would have guessed, was full of all sorts of swords, coming in different shapes and sizes. It was practically a museum of swords, with replicas of the swords used by the heroes of the past. The real ones were stored in the Royal Treasury.
"What do you think of this sword, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna?" ［Archen］
"I think it's beautiful... Though... I don't think the spikes are that practical..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. That's right. This sword is actually just here for intimidation. It does look quite frightening, doesn't it?" ［Archen］
"That it is, Your Majesty..." ［Grey］
Of course, there were also swords which were just for jokes. They looked quite scary but are really useless in real combat, just like the comically massive sword which only High-Rankers could swing with ease, not that anyone would pick it out seriously.
But perhaps the most beautiful one was the sword wielded by the First King. Grey only saw a replica, but he could tell the real one was a Mythical-Grade sword. Quite the invaluable object. A national treasure, indeed.
"Your Majesty..."
"Hm? Is it time already?" ［Archen］
"Yes. The Ministers have already arrived. It is time for the meeting to commence."
Just as they were about to finish the tour, an attendant suddenly relayed the news to the King. Apparently, the latter still had a meeting to attend to and he was the only one the others were waiting for, all the important figures of the country had gathered.
The attendant whispered and the King listened ardently. Before long, he was briefed of the meeting agendas and the requests of the ministers. It didn't take him too long to get a firm grasp of the situation. Compared to Ernes, Archen was actually reliable.
"I apologize, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna, but it seems this is as far as I can guide you. Should I ask someone to continue touring taking you around or would you rather explore by yourselves?" ［Archen］
"Hmm... I think we'd prefer the latter, Your Majesty." ［Grey］
"Un! It's more fun that way!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. I see... Then, I will be seeing you again at dinner. I hope you two enjoy the rest of your day." ［Archen］
"Un. Well wishes to your meeting, Your Majesty." ［Archen］
The King turned around and waved one of his hands, his footsteps soon echoed in the hall, disappearing from view after a few moments. Grey and Yuna were left behind, silence looming over them as they turned their heads left and right.
"Hmm... Where should we go now, Grey?" ［Yuna］
"Beats me. It's not like we're familiar with the place. I was thinking of using my eyes, but.l. should we just go around aimlessly? What do you think?" ［Grey］
"Un! Let's do that! That would be fun!" ［Yuna］
There was no plan nor were there any decisions. Grey and Yuna simply let fate do its work, heading where their foot took them. They have already explored most of the castle, all that's left are the little nooks and crannies that they missed.
They headed inside the smaller greenhouses, the empty halls, the detached palaces, the ponds, the subsidiary buildings and many more. There were a lot of interesting sights to see, people greeting them politely as they passed.
And just as they explored, they once again arrived on the training grounds. Not the one the knights and soldiers use, but the smaller and more private ones which not many people can use unless they receive special permission from the Royal Family.
"Haap! Haap! Haap! Hyaap!" ［Lisandra］
And in that training ground, a certain princess was thrusting and slashing her sword against a dummy. She was already drenched in sweat, obviously practicing for more than a couple hours already, an ardent glow gleaming in her eyes.
⟨⟨Double Cross!⟩⟩ ［Lisandra］
Lisandra brandished her sword at breakneck speeds and two blades of mana formed soon after, converging into one and hitting the dummy with enough force to feel trees in an instant, clouds of dust scattering in its wake.
The cloud of dust soon cleared and the dummy, albeit still intact, was now lying on the ground. Seeing the devastation she caused, Lisandra lifted up her sword and looked at it. Yet, there was no satisfaction on her face, only disappointment as she clenched her sword tightly.
"No... This is still not enough..." ［Lisandra］
"Mmn? But I think you're already doing well though, Princess Lisandra?" ［Yuna］
"Fweeh?! L-Lady Yuna?! And Lord Grey too!" ［Lisandra］
Just like a kitten who was splashed with water. Hearing Yuna's words suddenly ring inside her ears, Lisandra quickly jolted as if her soul had left her body. She then looked at the two with a flustered expression, face beet red as one can be.
"W-When did you two arrive...?" ［Lisandra］
"We arrived just now. And I also think that attack was amazing. No need to devalue yourself too much, Princess Lisandra." ［Grey］
"Ah... So you heard that, huh..." ［Lisandra］
She was trying to look calm and collected, but she couldn't hide the crestfallen tone in her voice. She then swung her sword one more time before tucking it inside her scabbard, soon heading under the shade to rest with Grey and Yuna.
It was already afternoon and the sun was beating down on the ground. As Graystone was a more tropical country than Alfrione, a rest under the shade felt very refreshing, even more so with a cup of cold water,
"Fuahh～! That feels much better." ［Lisandra］
"Do you feel much better now, Princess Lisandra?" ［Yuna］
"Yes, thank you, and please call me Lisa, just Lisa." ［Lisandra］
"Fufufu! In that case, please refer to us casually as well, Lisa." ［Yuna］
They had already met in Erdea before so talking to and getting comfortable with each other was not as much of an arduous task than usual. They quickly got along as they enjoyed the fresh and cool breeze together, passing through the training grounds.
"About before... I'm sorry that you had to witness that. I've been asking Father about it ever since I was young yet he had never given me permission to attend the Carnival of Swords." ［Lisandra］
The Carnival of Swords, a competition held every year in the Grand Colosseum. An event where sword experts from all over the continent and beyond showcase their swordsmanship against one another, a round of fierce clashes one after another.
Everyone could participate in the tournament, but with so many experts participating, getting through the preliminaries was practically impossible unless one is at least at C-rank, with High-Rankers always reigning supreme.
It was practically impossible for the princess who is still at E-rank. She would surely be eliminated without mercy. And that's what the King is afraid of. He's afraid she'll be crushed and shaken by such overwhelming defeat. It's a world where the strong prey on the weak, after all.
"Father always said I'm still inexperienced... I couldn't even destroy the training dummy. Maybe I should just give it up..." ［Lisandra］
"Lisa, you're just overthinking it. You're already strong as you are." ［Yuna］
"Fufufu. Thanks, Yuna..." ［Lisandra］
Or so she said, gentle laughter dancing in the air. However, there was not a shred of joy inside her eyes, only dejection and insecurity as she doubted herself. She was close by, but her thoughts were far, far away, gloomy as one can be,
They only knew a little about each other, but Grey and Yuna knew they couldn't just leave her like that. It may be because Kris' personality has brushed on them, but they have started to get nosy about other people's situations. Oh, how troublesome it was.
"Hey, Lisa, can I borrow a little bit of space here?" ［Grey］
"Hm? Sure... Are you going to train, Grey?" ［Lisandra］
"No, I'll be making something sweet. Please look forward to it." ［Grey］
Or course, what better way to cheer up someone than a sweet and tasty delight? Grey quickly got into action and took out a kitchen set to Lisandra's surprise, then laid a handful of ingredients atop the kitchen table.
There was butter, sugar, salt, eggs, flour, vanilla extracts, peanuts, and of course, chocolate, coming in both solid and powdered cocoa forms. As for the tools, Grey only needed some cake pan, foil, a ladle, a whisk, a saucepan, and a couple bowls,
"Yuna, what is Grey doing?" ［Lisandra］
"Fufufu! Let's just sit and watch. We'll see soon enough," ［Yuna］
After preheating the oven, Grey limed the cake pan with foil, letting it drape over the edges. He then lightly buttered the foil, making sure it wasn't too dry nor greasy for the brownie mix to be put in later.
With the preparations done, Grey heated a saucepan and melted some butter and chocolate over low heat, stirring from time to time before removing it from the heat. He then wished them until a smooth consistency was reached.
Cocoa powder, sugar, eggs, a few drops of vanilla extract, and flour were then added to the mix, whisked thoroughly until the batter was finally finished, then poured it into the buttered cake pan, a sprinkle of salt and crushed peanuts soon after.
With that, all that's left was to bake the brownies. What would usually take more than half an hour only took a couple of minutes with Grey controlling the heat in the oven with fire magic, soon taking it out to let it cool down.
"Yuna, why don't you make some juice for us?" ［Grey］
"Un～." ［Yuna］
Yuna making some fruit juice, Grey then cooled down the brownies with the use of ice magic, turning the once soft cake into firm sweets. The foil was soon disposed of and Grey cut the brownies into hand-sized rectangular pieces.
The brownies were done and so was the juice. It was a much less extravagant snack than usual but it was still magnificent nonetheless. Yuna was humming to herself as she prepared some glasses from them, excited to take a munch.
As for the Princess, she couldn't help but stare and wonder just what the dark brown creation was in front of her. Though, from the appetite-arousing fragrance alone, she could already tell it was a delectable treat.
"Go ahead and take some, Lisa." ［Grey］
"O-Oh... Then, I will be intruding on your kindness..." ［Lisandra］
Driven by curiosity, and temptation as well, Lisandra didn't hesitate any longer and got a brownie for herself. She was still unsure what the treat was, but the more she held onto it, the more she wanted to have a taste. It was simply too tempting.
"Thank you for the food." ［Lisandra］
The Princess soon took a bite, an unfamiliar burst of flavor rushing inside her mouth. It was sweet, but there were also hints of saltiness and bitterness as well, perfectly blending in harmony to create a delicious delight.
The crunchiness of the peanuts also added a good contrast to the soft texture of the brownies, a fudge running deep inside the center of the treat. It was still the first time she had them yet she was already in love. They were just too good!
"Mmn～! So tasty! I could eat these all day!" ［Lisandra］
"Right～? Grey always makes the best sweets!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. That's too much praise, Yuna." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! It's true though. It really is delectable!" ［Lisandra］
The princess was now smiling, cheerfully taking a bite of the brownies time and time again. Compared to before, such a face suited her more. She looked much better smiling that sulking, beautiful as the sky above,
"Do you feel much better now, Lisa?" ［Grey］
"... Yes, thank you for cheering me up... I feel more refreshed now." ［Lisandra］
"That's good to hear... While it's good to work hard, you shouldn't push yourself too hard. Doing so will just drive you into a corner like before. Taking little breaks like this is important too. Just take a deep deep breath and relax." ［Grey］
Said Grey as he advised Lisandra, Yuna nodding beside him. Even when they were back in the forest, he and Yuna also took some time off from training and enjoyed their hobbies for a bit more variety.
While it slows down their progress and just wastes their time, it is also important to release all the stress and fatigue they've accumulated, and allow them to sit back and see things in different perspectives. A time for rest and reevaluation.
"I see... I'll keep that in mind... However, I think that's enough rest for now. I feel much better already so I think I'll keep on going. That much is fine, right?" ［Lisandra］
"Yeah, go ahead. We'll be right here if you need more brownies." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! Thank you!" ［Lisandra］
It was only a short break, but for some reason, Lisandra felt as if all the weight on her shoulders were suddenly taken off, heart and body feeling much lighter than before, a sense of peace and calm blanketing her mind.
She soon unsheathed her sword, brandishing it once more. She performed the same movements yet it somehow felt different before, a sense of enjoyment and excitement rushing inside her heart, a smile blooming on her face.
"Phew～! Looks like everything went well." ［Grey］
"Un! These brownies are very well made!" ［Yuna］
"Haah... Yuna, you... Haah..." ［Grey］
CHAPTER 303 END