FLAP FLAP FLAP WHOOSH
Clouds and dust drifted along the blue sky, flocks upon flocks of birds flapping their wings as they soared high from the ground. Their sweet chirps and lovely tweets rang out like a soft melody, waking up the morning world with the rising sun.
A new day has arrived and sunshine has graced the world once more. The horizon spanned several kilometers from left to right, shades of green, white, and blue dyeing the whole scene, vivid beauty and majesty gleaming from afar.
There were plains of green mountains of gray, and rivers of blue, filled with life as the nightly critters headed to slumber. The forest was no different, deers running around and birds hopping from branch to branch. Two figures appeared from the thickets.
"Waah～! So that's the Labyrinth of Thunder～! It sure is massive..." ［Yuna］
"Well, it's one of the Ten Great Labyrinths, after all. It isn't called 'Great' for nothing. And... Shouldn't you be used to such a sight now, Yuna?" ［Grey］
"Fufufu! But it looks a little different each and every time. I'm sure the inside will also look different! I'm correct, aren't I?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah... From what I know, it's the Labyrinth with the most traps and also one where sudden electrical discharges occur from the lightning veins coursing through it. It's one of the more dangerous Labyrinths, in my opinion." ［Grey］
It has been a couple of days since Grey and Yuna had their deer hunt in Alces, and ever since then, time has passed ever so slowly. It has been full of relaxing days, the two of them enjoying all sorts of venison dishes to their hearts' content.
Before long, it was finally time to depart, and rather than flying the lengthy distance
like they usually do, they decided to do some stretching and run instead. It was only about 200 kilometers, after all. They could use a bit of exercise.
It wasn't long before Grey and Yuna arrived in their next destination, greeted by a grand and majestic cavern from afar. It looked like a rocky mountain from afar, but if one were to take a closer look, it had a gaping entrance down to the eerie unknown with several dozen soldiers patrolling around it. It was the Labyrinth of Thunder.
"Ohh～! Lightning veins, that's new! I can't wait to see it!" ［Yuna］
"Normally, people would be scared, you know?" ［Grey］
But of course, such a dangerous labyrinth wouldn't be able to faze Yuna. Rather, she has become even more excited, wanting to see just how she would fare in a new and dangerous environment, curiosity making her blood boil with exhilaration.
And just a little distance from the Labyrinth were high walls, a dike surrounding it. It was the Town of Veltofar which supervises the Labyrinth of Thunder, and right now, it's in its busy periods, merchants and adventurers pouring in.
It hasn't been too long since the town was established, but Grey and Yuna heard that it was just as impressive as the City of Alces from before, a lot of places to explore and a lot of dishes to taste. They was an exciting prospects waiting to be experienced
"Mmn～! I can't wait to dive in! I wonder what kind of Boss lies inside! I'm sure they'll be strong, right?! Let's get stronger too, Grey! Let's reach theー" ［Yuna］
"Hold your horses now, Milady. There's still a month before it becomes active. It's a long wait ahead of us. You shouldn't get too excited." ［Grey］
"I know, I know... And during that whole month, I'll be going on lots and lots of dates with Grey! Let's have lots and lots of fun!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Looks like I'll have to work hard, then." ［Grey］
Well, before the Labyrinth comes playing around. Though the Royal Family hadn't been in Veltofar before, Grey and Yuna have heard a lot of things about it from the inn they stayed at Alces, all sorts of spots and attractions now in their list.
"Ah, Grey, since it's still a long time before the Labyrinth opens, should we head to other cities as well? I want to see the capital in this Kingdom." ［Yuna］
"That doesn't sound too bad. I'm also curious." ［Grey］
"Un! It's decided then!" ［Yuna］
With smiles abloom on their faces and their hands interlocked with one another, Grey and Yuna quickly headed towards Veltofar and did some sightseeing here and there, noticing happy folks of all races and professions.
They soon lined up for identification, and before long, it was their turn. After showing their identification cards to the city guards, they were then granted access to entry, a grand and marvelous sight greeting them as per usual.
There were bustling stalls and plenty of carriages. Merchants and adventurers alike headed inside with vigor, greeted by guides and other merchants offering all sorts of goods and services. There was the usual hustle and bustle, people lively as can be.
The scenery wouldn't lose out to any other as well, all sorts of vibrant colors painting the cold stony and wooden walls, banners hanging from above. Flowers were abloom inside the plant boxes, bringing the streets life and color.
"Ohh～! How neat～! It looks just like Alces, doesn't it?! Amazing!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. We're still in the same kingdom, after all." ［Grey］
Much like Arihal before, the city was greatly resemblant of Middle-Eastern culture with plenty of arches, spires, and columns, but even more so than the former, the mixing between Middle-Eastern and Western European culture was more evident.
The architecture was undoubtedly Middle-Eastern, but the carvings, the decorations, and the layout of the city was similar to that of Medical Europe, bits and pieces of fantasy elements popping up here and there all over the place.
"Grey! Let's head to an inn immediately!" ［Yuna］
"Oh, that's new. I thought you'd want to explore first." ［Grey］
"Un! That's right! That's why let's head to an inn immediately, so that we can explore the whole day! Hurry! Hurry!" ［Yuna］
There was no time to dilly-dally. Grabbing Grey by the hand, Yuna then went around the town and looked for an inn to stay, stopping by stalls from time to time and buying some sweet and light snacks for themselves to enjoy.
It was a little bit difficult with many merchants and adventurers taking over the inns, but thankfully, Grey and Yuna were still able to find themselves a wonderful inn just along the eastern district of town, still quite a few more rooms to rent.
There were a couple signboards hanging by the entrance and by the storefront, a sweet and sugary pie engraved into them, and a couple characters written below it. It seems like the inn's name was "Sugar Pie", a peculiar one amongst others.
CLING CLING CLING
Cute as the name may be, Grey and Yuna didn't waste time admiring the signboards too much, and soon headed inside the inn. Soft and familiar chimes echoed in the air, the reception desk greeting them up front.
Grey and Yuna could have just stayed in the fully-functional Sanctuary, but it would be too troublesome if something occurred in the outside world and they're not there to respond. It would be a disaster if a disaster were to happen and they couldn't stop it.
And most of all, they wouldn't be able to experience the full authentic experience and meet new people as well. It was the reason that it wasn't as comfortable as the home they built in the Sanctuary that they prefer staying in inns for travels.
"Oh my, welcome. Are you here to check in?" ［???］
"Yes. We'll have your best room, please, and we'd also like to stay for a week for now, though we might extend it laterー Oh! And right! And please include breakfast and dinner for two as well. " ［Grey］
"Our best room, huh... Fufufu! Understood!" ［???］
And speaking of new encounters, Grey and Yuna have just met another person they'll be getting along with for the next few weeks. And unlike more of the receptionists they've met before, it wasn't a young and beautiful woman who was greeting them.
Rather, it was a woman in her mid-fifties, wrinkles on her chubby face and light gray streaks of locks running along her hair. At a single glance, they could tell that she was the owner of the inn, and fairly experienced at that.
"Then, that would be 1,820 kiels in total." ［???］
"Alright. Here you go." ［Grey］
It was a bit more expensive than usual, but nothing too unreasonable. Grey quickly paid up and handed a pair of silver coins to the inn owner, receiving a bronze coin and 8 nickel coins as change, bright glimmers sparkling in the air.
They were soon given the register and the two of them then wrote down their names, their alternate identity ones, of course. It wasn't long before they received the key for their room, deciding to do the unpacking later so they could save some time.
"Shin and Elena, huh... I wonder, is it your two's first time in Veltofar?" ［???］
"Yeah. We actually came from a very far place, and we just arrived today. So far, the town's been wonderful and the snacks are also delicious." ［Grey］
"Un! I feel like I could eat them all day!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! In that case. Shall I treat you to some delicious pies? Consider this a welcoming gift from me. I promise you'll like it!" ［???］
The old lady smiled and Grey and Yuna could only tilt their heads at her. She soon headed towards the kitchen, a couple of voices ringing in the air. When she came back, there were now a couple of slices of pies in her hand.
She placed the little plates atop the reception counter and headed back to the kitchen once more. This time, rather than slices of pie, she came back with two cups of milk in her hands, strangely frothing and green powder drizzled on top.
And as if she just remembered something, she then headed back to the kitchen once more and grabbed herself another slice of sugar pie and another glass of milk. She then placed them atop the reception desk and called Grey and Yuna over.
"Now, why don't you have a try?" ［???］
Offered the inn owner with a warm smile on her face, and with such a smile, Grey and Yuan, though still a little confused, could only accept her goodwill and receive the pie and chilled milk from her, a smile still plastered on her face.
They dug in in the pie and fed themselves a little piece. As soon as they did, a sweet and creamy rush of flavors burst forth in their mouth like fireworks. There was a hint of acidity from what seems to be lemon, a sweet aroma tickling their noses.
After the sugar pie, the two then had a taste of the chilled milk and like usual, it was sweet and creamy. Well, not just that, it was very rich in flavor with a light punch of mint mixed into it, the froth giving it a little bit more texture.
Sugar Pie and Peppermint Milk was not a combination they ever hoped to have, but strangely enough, they got well with one another, one enhancing the flavor of the other. Maybe the inn should have been named "Sugar Pie and Peppermint Milk".
"Waah～! This is really delicious! This is amazing, Missusー Umm..." ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! How silly of me. It looks like I forgot to introduce myself... My name is Norma, though you can call me 'Aunty Norma' if you want." ［Norma］
"A-Ah, un... This is amazing, Aunty Norma." ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! I'm glad you like it!" ［Norma］
Yuna had been excited to go out and play, but after having a bite of the pie and a sip of the milk, it seems like she had forgotten what she was excited about, enjoying the pair of treats with a bright and sparkly smile on her face.
Heck, she was so happy, she even brought out chocolate chip cookies she usually has as a snack in the afternoon. She served them along the pie, and had them with the peppermint milk, humming whilst munching on such sweet treats.
"Aunty Norma, please have some. I baked these myself." ［Yuna］
"Oh my, then I'll be helping myself." ［Norma］
A smile floating on her, the inn owner then took a cookie for herself and ate it with much delight. Like the sugar pie she brought, it was delicious and tasty, with hints of a strange yet pleasant flavor she's never had before.
It was crunchy and tasty, the sweetness of sugar and chocolate melting in her mouth as she enjoyed Yuna's little present. Yuna once again took a piece, heading towards Grey and feeding him her cookies, elated as soon as she saw Grey enjoy himself.
And just when the atmosphere was warm and fluffy, a set of little footsteps echoed in the air, and bunny ears appeared out of nowhere. It was a little child barely the age of 5, eyes beautiful as honey and long lashes which were pretty as can be.
"Oh my, Liam, are you already done with your chores?'" ［Norma］
"Yes! Mom and Dad said I can play around now!" ［Liam］
"I see... But before you go, eat some snacks first. I prepared your favorite sugar pie and peppermint milk. Why don't you take a seat and have a bite?" ［Norma］
"Really?! Thank you, Grandma!" ［Liam］
As it seems, the little boy was the inn owner's lovely and adorable grandson. As soon as his grandmother asked him to have a snack, he then excitedly climbed the chair with his little legs and sat with great excitement.
Now, Grey and Yuna finally understood why Norma brought an extra serving of sugar pie and peppermint milk. It was because she knew that her grandson was about to be finished with his chores and wanted to spoil him before he played around.
His eyes sparkled with excitement as soon as he saw his favorite pie and milk combo before him, then diving in like the little rabbit that he was. His eyes sparkled with joy and excitement, happily feeding himself though albeit a little messy.
And once he spotted the plate of chocolate chip cookies beside, his eyes were filled with curiosity and confusion. He's never seen such cookies before, and they smelled quite sweet and fragrant too, tilting his head adorably, left and right.
"Fufufu! You can have some if you want. They're super delicious!" ［Yuna］
"R-Really? I can have some?" ［Liam］
"Of course! Little children should eat delicious foods, after all!" ［Yuna］
He was a little reluctant at first, but he slowly reached his hands out to the cookies. As soon as he bit down on it, a burst of chocolatey goodness caressed his tongue and the crunchiness of the cookie tickled his mouth.
There was no need to ask. The little rabbit greatly enjoyed Yuna's treat, his rabbit ears perking up as he showed his happiness, happily nibbling on the cookies. No matter which angle one looks at him, he was an angel through and through.
"Liam, aren't you forgetting something important? Don't you have something to say to Big Sister over here? Hm?" ［Norma］
"A-Ah, th-thank you so much, Big Sister! The cookies are tasty!" ［Liam］
"Fufufu! I'm glad you liked it!" ［Yuna］
Struck by the cuteness of an angel, Yuna couldn't help but smile as well. She then offered Liam a few more snacks and had him taste more of the sweets she and Grey baked. He continued to much like a little rabbit, adorable as can be.
And whilst he was doing so, Yuna couldn't help but look at him, wondering where such adorable bunny ears came from. She once thought they were just decorated headbands at first, but seeing them jolt and twitch, she confirmed that they were real.
"Are you curious about my grandson?" ［Norma］
"A-Ah, sorry for staring... I was just a little curious about him." ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! It's fine. You see, Liam is the son of my youngest son and my daughter in law. She happens to be part of the rabbit tribe, and as fate sees it, Liam inherited her long and fluffy ears. And now, I have a very adorable grandson!" ［Norma］
"Amazing... It's my first time seeing a rabbitfolk and human hybrid... But he's really adorable. The ears suit him quite a lot." ［Yuna］
"Right～? He's also got my eyes so he's really pretty. He especially looks cute when he's eating so happily like this. I'm so lucky to have a grandson like him." ［Norma］
It also seems like the inn owner was quite the fool for her grandson, and rightfully so. With how adorable the little rabbit was, one wouldn't be able to help themselves but fawn over him. They may look a little different, but they're a little undoubtedly related.
And watching the little rabbit, Yuna could only think and ponder what Grey and her future child would look like. She knows she doesn't want to be a mother as of yet, but she couldn't help but think about the future from time to time.
Yuna still doesn't know how many children they'll have, but she would like it if at least one of them would inherit her blue eyes, silver hair, and pointy ears. It would be like having a mini version of herself, and she'll surely fawn over them.
The only problem here is that Grey fawns over them too much as well. She already knows he'll become a doting father when the time comes, but she doesn't want him to be too doting. They may be their children, but she'll still get a little jealous, after all.
"You look so serious. What's got you pondering so much?" ［Grey］
"Nothing... I was just thinking of the future..." ［Yuna］
"The future... You sure say some strange things from time to time." ［Grey］
Or so he says, but he's not one to judge her, also having a couple expectations and fantasies about his future with Yuna as well. The two of them are too devoted and sweet with one another, even the sugary snacks started tasting bland.
Just like that, time continued to pass and they chatted with bright smiles blooming on their faces. And while they're at it, they also asked the inn owner of various spots and locations where it they could get themselves some nice views and new experienced,
Soon, other people were done with their jobs, and Liam's parents soon joined them. The father was called "Nord" and the mother was "Shelma". They were offered some sweets and treats as soon as they headed out, happy as can be.
"Ohh～! These are incredible! I've never had something like this before!" ［Nord］
"Oh my, how wonderful. I could eat these all day～!" ［Shelma］
Their reactions were just as expected, squeaking in joy as they enjoyed the little treats prepared for them. It was through that they got acquainted with one another, the two given all sorts of things about Veltofar and what they could find there.
DONGGGG DONGGGG DONGGGG
Time passed by some more, and before long, the second bell of the day had finally rung. Other than tourist spots and wonderful places, they were also told a little bit of the culture and traditions of Veltofar.
It was only then that Yuna remembered just how much she was raring to go around town and have an exploration date with Grey as promised, a panicked and confused expression painted on her lovely face as Grey chuckled ever so subtly.
"Oh, and please be careful while you're exploring. While the people in Veltofar are generally and wonderful, not everyone is the same." ［Shelma］
"Yes. Please be especially careful around knights and adventurers. Some of them often want to cause trouble and pick fights with people." ［Nord］
"Ah! And please avoid any fancy carriage, please. While we're thankful that we get to live in this town, the Lord isn't exactly one you would call friendly. It's much better to steer clear and avoid trouble. He won't be able to help you, otherwise." ［Norma］
"Yeah! Bad people!" ［Liam］
Of course, though they just met a little while ago and all they did was share some treats together, the inn owner and everyone else also warned them of what kind of dangers they might encounter whilst exploring town.
Even Liam tried to warn them about it, and it doesn't just seem like he's imitating the adults. It was something they had already taught him, something he already knows by heart. It seems to be something a little serious, actually.
Though, not that there was need for Grey and Yuna to worry too much, but it was still reassuring hearing people they barely know worry for them. They might have already fallen for Yuna's delicious treats. Sweets really are amazing once you think about it.
"Un! We'll keep that in mind!" ［Yuna］
"Fancy carriages, right... Got it." ［Grey］
Or so they say, but even if they were to get in trouble, they could always solve it with their power, be it peacefully or by force. Of course, they would prefer not to get in any trouble, but it was something they had to consider.
"Will Big Brother and Big Sister be careful...?" ［Liam］
Especially when such a sweet little rabbit angel was worrying for them. He is still young yet he already has the heart of a saint. Not only does he help with chores, but he was also very caring. The more they knew him, the more adorable he became.
"Fufufu! Don't worry, Liam. Big Brother and Big Sister will be okay. So, you should also be careful when playing outside, okay?" ［Yuna］
"Y-Yeah! I'll be careful!" ［Liam］
"Fufufu! That's a relief to hear." ［Yuna］
"Then, everyone, thank you for everything. The sugar pie and peppermint milk was really delicious. We'll see you next time." ［Grey］
They waved their hands and said their goodbyes. The little rabbit did the same in response and soft chimes once again rang out as they took their leave. Busy and bustling streets greeted them as soon as they opened the door.
No matter how one looked at it, it was a lively and joyful town like any other they have been to before. It was hard to imagine that such a place had dangers hidden within. It was just all too hard to believe, the two a little disappointed.
"Aunty Norma... They're good people, aren't they?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, too nice actually. It's the first time we were treated with snacks in an inn we just got to. They're really delicious as well." ［Grey］
"Right～? We should have them for dessert later again!" ［Yuna］
However, there was no need to worry too much about it. After all, all towns and cities have their own little secret, and Veltofar wasn't any different. Rather, they are only more excited, thinking about what the town has to offer.
"Then, shall we, Milady?" ［Grey］
"Un!" ［Yuna］
CHAPTER 413 END