Orcs, goblins, ogres, kobolds, and many more. In a nearby forest, monsters of all shapes and sizes gathered a plenty, wielding maces, swords, and spears by their hands, ready to devastate and plunder all there is to see.
Yet just as strange as the large gathering of such monsters in the forest, all of the monsters present were riddled with various deep wounds and bleeding all over. Some even had their limbs missing and weapons battered and broken.
Khieeeekkkk Buhiiiikkkkk Gurruuukkkkk
Before long, a symphony of cries and shrieks echoed all over the vast forest. The monsters, one after another, were flung and struck, bodies disappearing as they turned back to mana. The numbers which were once plenty dwindled with time.
"Die, you damn vermin!" ［Procyon］
Of course, the reason for the monsters' timely defeat and disappearance were none other than Procyon and Achernar. The former was especially feisty dishing out harsh words as she eliminated tons upon tons of monsters with her deadly dragon's breath.
It has been a couple days since they have been summoned, and currently, Grey and Yuna are on a quest to subjugate a number of monsters. But unlike their usual routine, rather than them, it was their familiars which were doing all the work. They are simply sitting by the branches, watching the show unfold.
"Hm? How much does that make?" ［Yuna］
"They should have subjugated monsters in the thousands now." ［Grey］
"Eh～? They sure are working hard, huh..." ［Yuna］
Commented Yuna as she fed herself some fries, munching ever so merrily as her eyes shifted left and right. At the same time, she was also smiling happily as Grey patted her head, stroking her hair ever so gently.
Procyon and Achernar aren't simply defeating monsters. They are "feeding" on them to get much stronger and grow quickly. Aiding them were none other than the other familiars who are currently out hunting for other monsters.
Since both Procyon and Achernar are the weakest amongst the familiars, the others have been prioritizing their growth over theirs. They only eat the amount they need and give the rest to their baby sisters.
And thankfully, unlike their extreme personalities, they can both hold themselves well during battle. It was as if they were other people, but that only serves for the others to feel relieved if anything.
"Hm? Was that all of them?" ［Procyon］
"Mmn... I think so, too..." ［Achernar］
"Haah... It's finally overー" ［Procyon］
THUD THUD THUD
In fact, it was far from over. Just as the two relaxed their shoulders, dozens upon dozens of monsters dropped from the sky in front of them. Each one just as injured and battered as the ones before them.
The culprit for such a scene were none other than the older familiars who had just finished their hunt. And as monsters vanish the moment they are defeated, they only did enough damage to cripple them. They were a pitiful mess.
"Why, you...! Stop bringing monsters here! We're already full!" ［Procyon］
"Come on now, Procyon. You won't grow quickly with that attitude." ［Vega］
"It's okay to take it slow! And stop sticking close to me! Dammit!" ［Procyon］
In a way, the familiars were similar to Grey in terms of overprotectiveness. Neither of them knows when to stop, feeding their baby sisters like doting parents, much to the two's discomfort. The fierce Procyon was especially ticked off.
And it also didn't help the fact that Vega was acting all chummy with her. She was like her natural enemy, not wanting to get involved with her and irked veins popping all over every time they interacted.
"How about you, Achernar?" ［Vega］
"Umm... I think I'm full already..." ［Achernar］
"Oh, that's good! No need to force yourself now. You can rest if you want!" ［Vega］
"Hey! What with this difference in treatment?!" ［Procyon］
"Hmph! That's what you get for being rude to your older sister!" ［Vega］
They really were like siblings. They laugh together, they argue with one another, they care for each other, and most importantly, they argue with one another. It is so important that it needs to be said twice.
As for Grey and Yuna, they were having a lot of fun watching over all of them. They may quarrel a lot but they also care a lot for one another. They were already their family, each one precious and invaluable.
"Oi, Procyon, don't be too rough on Vega. She's still your older sister." ［Kentaurus］
"Stay out of this, Third Brother!" ［Procyon］
"Why, you...! I'll teach you a lesson, you brat!" ［Kentaurus］
The sound of conflict in the air, loud booms soon echoed as the monsters were erased from the surface of the world one after another. The forest soon regained its peace, the winds whispering ever so gently.
With all the shenanigans finally finished, Grey and Yuna easily collected the dropped items and let the familiars rest in their shadows, letting them resume their arguments on their own. Finally making sure everything was alright.
The quest and cleanup finally over, Grey and Yuna then departed from the forest and headed back into the city. The second bell had just rung yet they had already fulfilled their quota. They were as fast as ever.
"We're back, Tilda." ［Grey］
"Ah, wait a moment, please. I'll just finish this one." ［Tilda］
"Alright." ［Grey］
In fact, they had been scampering through all their quests that not even a single adventurer or receptionist in the guild are shocked anymore. Rather, they are more intrigued whenever they arrive later than noon. Strange is the new normal.
Before long, it was finally Grey and Yuna's turn. And as one would expect from the result of the familiar's overfeeding, they brought a lot of items in the reception desks, ranging from mana crystals all the way to rare equipment drops.
"Haha... You two really don't know how to hold back..." ［Tilda］
"Fufufu! We just got a little heated up is all." ［Yuna］
"A little, huh..." ［Tilda］
Tilda couldn't even get surprised even if she wanted to. Now, not only her, but the other receptionists also needed to help out. It is said that they were the reason why the guild needed to hire new employees. A famous rumor in the guild.
And as one would expect from the number of items they brought, the amount they earned was even more spectacular. The initial price was already in the hundred thousands, and if the rare drops finish their appraisal, it would easily reach more than a million. It was absurd no matter how much one thinks of it.
"We have deposited an amount of 1,337,200 kiels in your guild cards. Please check if the amount is correct." ［Tilda］
"Yeah, it's correct. Thanks." ［Grey］
"You're welcome, but please go easy on us next time." ［Tilda］
"Haha... We'll try..." ［Grey］
Or so he says, but everyone in the guild knows full well that such a promise could easily get broken. After all, it wasn't the first time such an exchange was made and without fail, it gets broken each and every time. A flawless cycle.
They were just about to leave the guild, waving their hands goodbye, when just as they turned around, two familiar figures entered their line of sight. They were none other than Kris and Aria who just finished their quests.
Both Grey and Yuna were happy to see the two, but the same couldn't be said for the receptionists and guild staff. They had just dealt with Grey and Yuna's items, and now Kris and Aria also entered the scene. One can't say they look excited.
"Oh, Mister Kris, Miss Aria, how did your quest go?" ［Yuna］
"Haha, who do you think you're talking to? Of course, we completed all of them, and perfectly at that!" ［Kris］
"Kris, you're too loud. Please quiet down a little." ［Aria］
"Heh... Aria, you're such a party popper." ［Kris］
It was just like usual. Kris bragged about their quests, Yuna listened attentively, and Aria scolded her husband every time he got too far. And just as such a scene unfolded, a sudden thought popped up into his mind.
For the past few days, there has been a problem he has been concerned about on his own. Now that Kris was finally back, he now has someone he can share it to. He may look unreliable, but he was one the best when it came to advising as he had already proven before.
"Psst. Mister Kris, I need you for something." ［Grey］
Silent as one can be, Grey got Kris' attention with the use of wind magic, whispering his words silently without reaching the others' ears. They may not be able to use telepathy, but there are still other ways.
"Right. I'll just head to the reception and process the quests' completion real quick. You girls go catch up with one another, alright?" ［Kris］
"Hm? What are you up to again? It's unlike you acting so responsible." ［Aria］
"Aria, that hurts, you know? And... Is there something wrong with a man wanting to impress his wife?" ［Kris］
A sudden attack out of the blue. Not anticipating such a response from Kris, Aria's eyes widened in shock a little before her cheeks were painted a rosy tint. They might be married already, but such attacks were still very much effective.
"No, nothing at all..." ［Aria］
"Haha. Then, I'll be going now." ［Kris］
Kris was so smooth with his words that neither Yuna nor Aria saw him head towards the reception desk with Grey, only chatting with one another as Yuna teased her fellow elf, Aria also teasing her back.
"Mister Kris... You sure are a smooth talker, huh..." ［Grey］
"Shut up. Like you're one to talk." ［Kris］
"At least we don't do that much in public." ［Grey］
"Are you sure about that? I swear I see you flirting in public everyday." ［Kris］
Arguing about a silly topic, Grey and Kris headed to the reception desk where Tilda was, and as expected, the number of items he dropped off were no joke. It may not be as much as Grey and Yuna's, but it still formed a large pile on the desk.
All the receptionists just wanted to skip work and cry on the corner after seeing such a sight before them. Fortunately enough, the guild's salary was high enough to keep them from doing so. Fortunate, indeed.
"So, what did you want to talk about?" ［Kris］
"Ah, that... Actually, I want your advice on something." ［Grey］
"An advice, huh... It's regarding Yuna, isn't it?" ［Kris］
"Haha... You're still sharp as ever..." ［Grey］
"'Course I am. I'm your senior, after all." ［Kris］
It was just a simple word, but it had so much impact on the conversation. After hearing the word "advice", Kris' attitude completely changed and he brimmed with confidence and enthusiasm. A glint of seriousness shone in his eyes.
"But let's talk about that later, yeah? I know a place." ［Kris］
"It's not a bar, is it?" ［Grey］
"Of course not. Just what do you think of me?" ［Kris］
Unfortunately, the guild was not the right place to hold such a conversation. So rather than discuss the problem itself, the two thought of a place where they could and also a way to convince their beloved so that they can go on their own, finishing just as the quests processes were completed.
Their excuse was simple. Kris simply whispered to Aria that Grey wanted to plan a surprise for Yuna and didn't want the latter to know. They somehow coaxed Aria to help them, leaving Yuna in her care.
And it didn't take too long at all. With Aria's expertise, she quickly convinced Yuna to go shopping with her. After all, Aria rarely invites her, and with an easy approval from Grey, Yuna easily said yes.
"Then, he'll be heading out now. Take care, you two... And oh, Grey! Make sure Kris doesn't do anything stupid." ［Aria］
"Yeah, sure thing." ［Grey］
"Hey, you're aware you're being rude, right?" ［Kris］
It felt terrible that Grey had to lie to Yuna, but there was nothing he could do about it. Thankfully, with Kris helping him out, things went a little smoother. He may be nosy and irritable at times, but he was reliable. Especially when it came to shenanigans. He's a master.
"Then, shall we get going too?" ［Kris］
"Yeah, I'll be in your care." ［Grey］
Before long, Kris and Grey also headed out of the guild and headed several hundred steps to a place the former was oh so familiar with. It was an inn Kris and Aria once brought to initially celebrate Aria's birthday.
However, unlike before, the place was already done with the renovations and is now bustling with customers heading in and out of the place. And as noon was drawing near, it was the perfect time to have their lunch.
Cling Cling Cling
Soft as whispers, low chimes rang throughout the whole inn. As they headed to the dining hall, more and more people entered their sight, each and everyone enjoying their lunch to the fullest. Of course, there were also some familiar faces.
"Oh, it's you, Kris. Did you get kicked out of the house?"
"Hey! Don't go destroying someone else's marriage! Just so you know, we have a healthy relationship!" ［Kris］
"Really? I'm surprised Aria could still put up with you."
"Are you picking a fight, Old Man?!" ［Kris］
As it seems, Kris was quite familiar with the owner of the inn, chatting with him in a crass and casual manner. They might have already moved to their own home, but Kris and Aria still visit from time to time.
Kris and Grey quickly took their seats, and with Kris on the lead, they soon ordered lunch. The waitress' eyes opened wide in shock as soon as she got to Grey. He may look slender, but he was quite the big eater, after all.
The waitress soon left the two on their own and headed to the kitchen to relay the orders, the cooks just as surprised as she was. And as they were busy preparing, it was finally time for Grey and Kris to start their conversation, a serious atmosphere looming over them.
"So, what's the problem?" ［Kris］
"That's... Mister Kris... Isn't Yuna too cute?" ［Grey］
"Huh?" ［Kris］
A serious atmosphere which was quickly broken not too long after. Grey's words were so unexpected that Kris was thrown off and was sent frozen. He can't comprehend what he just heard, heading aching a little.
"Grey, can I hit you a little bit?" ［Kris］
"A-Ah, sorry..." ［Grey］
Thankfully, the conversation went back on track as Kris raised his closed fist, irked veins popping on his face. There was a big smile on his face but he was clearly ticked off. Grey had no choice but to apologize.
Shenanigans aside, Grey quickly told Kris about his real problems. One was the fact that he wanted to marry Yuna, and the other about his overflowing desires which he finds harder and harder to control with the passing of each day.
As Grey spilled the beans, Kris listened attentively, nodding from time to time. Having already married, Kris was no beginner at love. He had also encountered the same problems before, and so, he could relate very well to Grey's concern.
"I see... So you want to propose, but are afraid it's still too early." ［Kris］
"Yeah, it hasn't been a year since we started dating, after all." ［Grey］
"Hmm... I see... I see... I think I already know what the problem is." ［Kris］
"Really?! And that is?" ［Grey］
"It's simple... It's because you're an idiot." ［Kris］
Placing both his hands on Grey's shoulder, Kris laid out to Grey his answer, blunt and simple. It was so sudden that Grey couldn't help but voice out a short "Eh?", face confused as one can be, head filled with question marks.
To make matters worse, Kris was dead serious as well, eyes unwavering like a proud and tall mountain during a storm. Seriousness with a hint of annoyance brewing in his heart, just wanting to give Grey a little smack.
"Wh-What do you mean?" ［Grey］
"Haah... Listen closely, Grey. You're just worrying too much again. It's not about how long you've been going out, it's about what you feel. And, just which country were you raised from? A year's already plenty." ［Kris］
"Eh?" ［Grey］
"Huh? Did I say something wrong?" ［Kris］
"A-Ah, that's not it... You're right." ［Grey］
It was only after hearing Kris' words that Grey once again realized he was not on Earth anymore, he was on Merusia. Though he knew it already, he was still clinging on to Earth's values, often confusing himself with what's normal and what's not.
Though people usually get engaged after a few years of dating back on Earth, it's quite different in Merusia. Dating for six months is already reasonable enough and a whole year is the norm, marriage followed after a few to several months.
There are even plenty of arranged marriages where people are engaged even before birth or when they are young, one mostly done by the upper class. Julius and Amelia are an example of such an arrangement.
Yet despite all the obvious examples before him, Grey failed to notice the difference between Earth and Merusiaー or rather, he doesn't quite accept it yet. It is only now that his mind has been cleared.
"And aren't you already living together in the same house with Yuna? If you ask me, you're already like a married coupleー No, actually, I'm sure you two are even more qualified than real married couples.
In fact, you've already done things other people would wait for marriage before doing. Not saying that it's wrong or something, but you should just skip the engagement and just get married already." ［Kris］
It was a critical strike. Seeing Grey ponder, Kris laid out the harsh truth before him, striking where it hurts and just getting straight to the point. To be honest, there was a little bit of hesitation in his heart, still wanting to smack Grey.
"Don't be afraid of rejection. You can just try again if you fail. What's important is that you can get across what you feel, get it?" ［Kris］
"Yeah, thank you very much. I think I got my answer now." ［Grey］
"Yeah, yeah, and make you really understand my words. If you come back for advice again after saying all that, I'm really gonna hit you." ［Kris］
"O-Of course..." ［Grey］
That was no longer a joke, it was a threat. Though Kris was more than happy to help, he felt a little bit of frustration as he dealt with Grey's lack of common sense. There was also the fact that Grey was gloating at first. Still, he kept true to his promise.
"Ah, but, about your desires... You might want to get it under control. Otherwise, you'll be slapped and ignored for a whole week. Trust me, you don't want that." ［Kris］
"Is... This speaking from experience...?" ［Grey］
"What do you think?" ［Kris］
There was no need to ask any further as the answer was already obvious. In fact, not just once, but Kris had experienced such a treatment a few times. The worst one was when Aria ignored her for a whole month. An experience he just wants to forget.
"Here's your order～!"
Just right on time, their orders were finally done, piping hot dishes served on their table one after another, a delightful aroma wafting through the air. It didn't take too long before they dug in on their lunch, excitement on their faces.
"Oh! This is really delicious!" ［Grey］
"Right? Didn't I tell you? This place's great!" ［Kris］
CHAPTER 257 END