"Waah～! So beautiful! I especially like the lace. They're intricate and sophisticated but not too overwhelming." ［Iris］
"Right～? And look here, Iris, there are also different styles here." ［Violet］
"Mmn... I think I prefer this one the most. The color match's Mother's eyes." ［Iris］
Pages were flipped and words were read, soft giggles resounding in the air as two young ladies admired the pictures plastered neatly throughout the magazine. There were accessories, clothes, desserts, and many more. A full-color issue.
Yet despite the joy they felt, they couldn't help but glance at another figure who was uncharacteristically silent, barely touching her sweets. Her eyes were wandering off to a distance, the dull yet peaceful scenery reflected on them.
Of course, that figure was none other than Yuna. She is usually full of energy and enthusiasm, but after yesterday's events, she could barely form a smile, only sipping her tea in silence, her mind wandering to a far-off place, eyes void with color.
Well, who could blame the young lady? Even just yesterday, when Grey promised her he'll get into bed soon after, he was nowhere to be found, or rather, he didn't even get back home. Yuna was alone throughout the long and chilly night... yet again...
Their relationship has been harmonious for the past year with barely any fighting and arguments involved. Now that she's encountering them, she doesn't know what to do anymore, a little afraid to know the truth.
"Elder Sister Yuna, are you okay...? You've not been yourself lately..." ［Iris］
"Older Sister Yuna, if you have any problems, you can just talk to us. We may not be of help, but we can still listen." ［Violet］
The change in her was so obvious, even Violet and Iris couldn't help but notice. They were both worried, but with Yuna not talking to them, there was only little to nothing they could do, acting like little puppies looking at their owner with worried eyes.
"Fufufu. Thank you for worrying, you two, but It's nothing much, really. There's just a lot of things on my mind right now." ［Yuna］
"Really...? We can lend a listening ear if you want." ［Iris］
"Fufufu. You two really are the sweetest things." ［Yuna］
The young ladies tried to reach their hands out to Yuna, but rather than expressing her concerns, what they received were pinches to the cheeks, Yuna fawning over them with a bright smile on her face. A smile which wasn't the one they were used to.
Tap Tap Tap Tap
And just as the atmosphere turned heavy and awkward, a series of footsteps echoed from the hallways on the other side of the door. To the others, it was nothing special, but to Yuna, it was something she was too familiar with.
A trace of urgency on her face, Yuna quickly headed towards the door, a click, clack, and creak echoing the door as she opened it. As soon as she did, a familiar figure appeared before her, now covered in a little bit of dust and hair quite disheveled.
Yet despite seeing him, Yuna couldn't utter a single word. She could only stare at him in silence, figuring out what to say to him. Now, rather than excitement, her heart beat in nervousness, a chilly darkness swallowing her from the inside.
"Umm, Yuna... Is something wrong...? You look a little pale..." ［Grey］
"A-Ah, no... Rather than that, why do you look so messy and dirty? Did you head inside a jungle or something?" ［Yuna］
"A jungle... Well, yeah, I guess you could say that..." ［Grey］
It wasn't just a jungle, it was deep, dark, and dangerous jungle which had thousands of Middle-Rank beasts and a number of High-Rank beasts ready to pounce at anyone who trespasses their territory. There were even a couple Calamity-Class ones.
Well, not that there was any need to mention it to Yuna and make her needlessly worried, or rile her up. He was simply thankful that he finally collected seven of the nine colors, cheerfully greeting Violet and Iris as soon as she saw them.
"Are you heading somewhere, Grey?" ［Yuna］
"Well, I'm heading to the bath and I'll be having lunch soon after, then I'll probably finish my work later on. Why? Do you need me for something?" ［Grey］
"Hmm... Work, huh..." ［Yuna］
At the mention of the word, Yuna's heart clenched tightly and painfully as if someone was twisting it desperately. She trusts Grey, but even with all that trust, she couldn't help but feel anxious. She doesn't know whether Grey was speaking the truth or not.
"Mmn... Then, can I request something from you? I'd like to go back to Galderia for a moment. Just a couple hours is good enough." ［Yuna］
"Galderia? Why so suddenly?" ［Grey］
"Well... I just remembered I forgot some herbs I was preparing. I'm planning to make some concoctions and some experiments so I really need them right now." ［Yuna］
Said Yuna, ending her words with a subtle smile, acting as if there was nothing wrong with her. And Grey, being the fool in love that he is, didn't even doubt her words even a single bit, simply thinking about what else she could do for her.
"Alright... When should I pick you up then? At 3:00? 5:00?" ［Grey］
"Hmmn... 5:00 would be good. I'll probably be back by then. If not, I'm probably at the Rabbit's Den still talking with Helen." ［Yuna］
"Alright, it's decided then. 5:00 o'clock either at home or the Rabbit's Den. I'll come pick you up once I've finished my word and tidied up everything." ［Grey］
"Un. Thank you." ［Yuna］
Things were quickly decided, nothing much to be said. Yuna quickly said her farewell to both Iris and Violet, apologizing that she couldn't keep them company any longer. Thankfully, the young ladies were quite understanding, happily smiling back at her.
With a wave of his hand, Grey once again opened the gate inside their room, away from everyone else's sight. Blue light soon illuminated the room, Yuna entering the gate without much hesitation as light swallowed her view.
The moment the blue light faded away, a familiar and cozy scene greeted her. It was the sight of their home, fresh air wafting throughout the living room and a fragrant wind from their lovely garden. A scenery she missed for almost a month.
"Then, I'll come pick you up later. Have fun." ［Grey］
"Un. Call you back later～." ［Yuna］
A smile on her face and her hand waving slowly, Yuna sent off Grey and silence soon engulfed the house whole. Her eyes wandered all over the place, her subtle and slow footsteps the only thing echoing in the air, tips and taps time and time again.
She then heaved a lengthy sigh, eyes looking far off into the distance, walking ever so slowly as she headed out of the house. A heavy metallic creak danced in the air as the young lady opened and closed the gates, heading off into the horizon.
The unpaved road was rough, dirt sticking to her boots, yet despite how rural it was, the whistling winds and the scent of the green grass calmed her down. Before long, she arrived at the busy districts of the city, lively as one can be.
The carriages running along the streets and the children playing by the street sides. Although it looked similar, it was only then that she realized once again how different Erdea was compared with the other cities. Even then, nothing could beat home.
Before long, as she wandered and pondered around the streets, she arrived at an even more familiar place. It was a place of comfort full of wonderful memories, the smell of lovely lunch being cooked wafting through her nose. It was the Rabbit's Den!
"Ehh～? That's so fun! I also want to go there someday." ［Helen］
"Well, I heard they're having a lot of discounts tomorrow to celebrate their anniversary. Would you like to go together?" ［Tilda］
"Oh! I would love to! That's a promise, okay?" ［Helen］
"Of course! It's been so long since I've been there with a friend as well. I'm looking forward to it." ［Tilda］
She hasn't even headed inside yet she could already hear a pair of familiar voices ringing in the air. Yuna had already expected Helen to be there, but to hear Tilda's voice, she can't say she's not surprised. Though, it was a welcome one.
Cling Cling Cling
Soft chimes echoed in the air like usual, and as soon as she heard it, Helen's head turned towards the entrance. Two bright smiles bloomed simultaneously as soon as they who entered, eyes sparkling like jewels under the night sky,
"Oh! Yuna, you're back! How was your month-long trip to Erdea? I heard it was a very beautiful city, is that true?" ［Helen］
"That's right! They also say they have the best and most artistic craftsmanship throughout the whole continent! I've always wanted to see what it's like." ［Tilda］
"Calm down, you two. One question at a time." ［Yuna］
There were no brakes for their excitement. As soon as they saw Yuna, they quickly launched a barrage of questions like curious and excited children during their field trip, only that they are full-grown adults in this case.
It took her quite some time, but Yuna somehow managed to calm the two down, answering their every question and satisfying their curiosity. She even had to give them their souvenirs much earlier than scheduled due to their persistence.
"I see... So you'll only be here for a while." ［Helen］
"Well, there's still a lot to do, after all. The Festival of Hearts and all that." ［Yuna］
"The Festival of Hearts... The one which only happens once every nine years, right? I wonder what it feels like. It must be nice..." ［Helen］
"Right? I also heard it's the most beautiful festival there is. They say that if you attend it, you'll be blessed with good luck. It must be really beautiful." ［Tilda］
"Hm? Why don't we experience it for yourselves then?" ［Yuna］
To Yuna's words, both Helen and Tilda were quite speechless. They looked at the young lady with flabbergasted eyes, and the former, on the receiving end of such stares, only tilted her head in confusion, acting as adorable as one can be,
"I mean... We could always just ask Grey. Instant travel like before." ［Yuna］
"Ah, that's rightー" ［Tilda］
Both Helen and Tilda were about to celebrate, but before they could even raise their voices, it quickly died down to a halt as they realized something. Yuna's eyes may be the brightest and sincerest there is right now, but there is no telling what she'll do.
It was Yuna we're talking about, after all. Knowing full well who she is, they knew her invitation wouldn't be as simple as it is. They might once again be joining royalty or might even be accompanying them in parades. It was far too risky.
"Umm... I think I'll pass this time..." ［Helen］
"Me too... I think I still have work that day." ［Tilda］
"Are you sure? It only happens once every nine years, you know?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah..." ［Helen］ "Yes..." ［Tilda］
Both voices rang out in unison, firm with their decision. Though it was a shame that they wouldn't be able to see it this time, it was much better than recklessly diving into the unknown that Grey and Yuna made. Much, much better.
Just in case, the two young ladies asked who really were with them. Their hunch was right, and it isn't just going to be the Royal Family of Alfrione but royalties throughout the whole continent. They have never been so happier to reject an invitation.
"Still, having such an ability sure is convenient, huh... You only need a second and you'll be there. I'm so envious, Yuna..." ［Tilda］
"I totally understand you, Tilda... I wish my Owen also had such an ability... We'd be able to go on dates in lots of different places. How enviable..." ［Helen］
It was purely coincidental, but after hearing Helen's comment, Yuna once again remembered why she was there in the first place, her heart wrenching painfully as she remembered Grey and the growing distance between them.
The change was so sudden, both Helen and Tilda were quick to notice it. Not only was her face and ears drooping with a crestfallen expression, her usual energy was also nowhere to be found. They quickly understood something wasn't right,
"Yuna... You don't look so well... Are you okay...?" ［Tilda］
"A-Ah, sorry... Actually......" ［Yuna］
And so, Yuna finally poured her heart out. She told both Helen and Tilda about her problem, confiding in them with a crestfallen voice. And on the receiving side, Helen and Tilda listened to her attentively, nodding from time to time.
From Grey's strange and distant behavior, the decreasing amount of time they spend with each other, and the decreasing moments when Grey touches her. She poured out all her anxiety, hands trembling a little as tears formed at the corner of her eyes.
The more she talked, the more she realized how distant they have been. Fear crept in her heart, fear of loneliness and rejection from the one she loves. Fear that their connection would suddenly be cut off like a thin string barely hanging on a ledge.
"There, there, Yuna... Here, let's wipe your tears first, okay?" ［Tilda］
"Yuna, would you like to eat some sweets? We have some cookies here." ［Helen］
It felt strange. The Yuna they knew to be so cheerful and strong, now showing such a fragile and vulnerable side of her. Even Helen who has seen her cry before couldn't get used to it, doing her best to cheer her up.
Looking at her now, she looked just like any other normal girl, bawling her eyes out and trembling ever so slightly as she expressed her worries to her friends. Her soft and subtle cries echoing in the air, fluttering in grief and melancholy.
"Yuna, I'm just asking, but... How long has this been going on?" ［Helen］
"Umm... Twoー No, three weeks maybe...? I really don't know..." ［Yuna］
Helen asked curiously and Yuna answered her truthfully. Even then, the former didn't think it had been so long, looking up at the ceiling as she pondered over what to do, putting herself in the shoes of her friend.
'Three weeks... It's actually serious this time, huh...' ［Helen］
She thought to herself, remembering the time Grey and Yuna had their first fight. But compared then, the moment now was much more grave and serious. Something she didn't think would actually happen to such a lovey-dovey couple who are head over heels for one another.
Just thinking how she would feel if she and Owen were to go through the same cold and distant situation. She felt her heart crack and crumble, tears trickling down her face. A critical hit from her own imagination.
"Helen, let's focus on Yuna for now, okay? Don't start crying now." ［Tilda］
"A-Ah, yeah... Sorry about that..." ［Helen］
Thankfully, Tilda was there to help her snap back to reality, once again lending her ears to Yuna. Soon, Yuna finished everything she had to say and the other ladies finally got a firm understanding of the situation.
Silence soon swallowed the whole inn, only the subtle whistling of the wind to be heard. The two ladies pondered over the situation again and again, all the while calming Yuna down, not wanting to give any reckless advice to their dear friend.
"Yuna, I want to ask something. Have you ever had a fight with Grey these past few days? Even small arguments will do." ［Helen］
"Fights... No, I don't think so... But, ah! There was one time a few days ago when I made him an apple pie stuffed with chili powder and all sorts of things." ［Yuna］
"Wait, eh? Chili powder...?" ［Tilda］
"That's because he was leaving me out on his quests. But I don't think that's it. Grey said he wasn't mad about it." ［Yuna］
"Yeah, I can imagine..." ［Helen］
Helen and Tilda tried to probe Yuna about their situation, but it wasn't as easy as they thought it would be. Knowing how head over heels Grey is for Yuna, they barely found anything which would lead to him suddenly acting cold.
If there was anything, they just think Grey is too doting and overprotective of Yuna. Even then, they find it hard to be the cause. After all, Yuna also quite enjoys Grey's pampering and spoiling. Their relationship was far too harmonious.
"Sorry, Yuna, this is just too hard of a problem... Knowing Grey, I find it difficult that he'll suddenly start acting cold for no reason." ［Helen］
"Me too... And I don't think Grey's cheating either. You're already so lovely and beautiful, he'll be a fool if he still tries to find another woman. Our Yuna is the most beautiful, after all!" ［Tilda］
"Tilda's right. Though, I also don't think he's fallen out of love. It's Grey we're talking about, after all. That guy's crazy for you." ［Helen］
"Sorry, Yuna... I also can't think of anything." ［Tilda］
They weren't helping at all, or rather, they didn't know how to help. The more they thought about it, the harder it was to find any reasons why Grey would suddenly act cold towards Yuna. They were having headaches just thinking about it.
"Well, we may not be able to find a cause, but we can still give you advice, Yuna. This might be obvious, but why don't you just talk it out with Grey." ［Helen］
"I think so too. It might result in some arguments, but it's better than nothing. There's no use always running away. It will only make things worse." ［Tilda］
The only thing they could offer was advice as a friend. They have also experienced love and had their own experiences. Though not exactly the same as Yuna, there were a couple common points of interest they could point out.
Especially Helen. Before, she only used romance novels in order to give advice to Yuna, but having experienced having a boyfriend herself, she knew full well how it is to be in a relationship. The most important thing was communication.
"Talk it out... But Grey always slips away." ［Yuna］
"Hmph! If that's the case, then grab onto him tightly! Make sure he doesn't get away! Use your strength to pin him down!" ［Helen］
"Helen, have you forgotten...? Grey's stronger than Yuna." ［Tilda］
"In that case, then use your charm as a woman! Seduce him! And crawl into the bed if needed! Use your beautiful figure, Yuna! What's the use of thoseー Mmph!" ［Helen］
"Helen, calm down! You're too excited!" ［Tilda］
And now, Helen is going into a rampage, saying all sorts of aggressive advice to Yuna in order to pin Grey down. There were even some obscene enough that Tilda had to cover her mouth quickly before she goes too far.
"Hahaha. You're absolutely right, Helen! Hehehe!" ［Yuna］
It was chaotic, but it was exactly because of that chaos that Yuna managed to let out a sincere laugh after a while. Seeing her giggle to herself, Helen and Tilda could finally feel a sense of relief flooding their hearts, smiles blooming on their faces.
Of course, as her mood was now lifted up, Yuna had also started eating again. They were quite worried seeing how little she ate, but now that she was munching down one cupcake after another, they could finally rest easy.
"Yuna, slow down. You're going to choke at this rate." ［Tilda］
"Sorry... I haven't had breakfast actually, so I'm quite hungry..." ［Yuna］
"Ehh?! You should have said so sooner! Mom! Dad! Is lunch ready yet?!" ［Helen］
Well, almost rest easy... Knowing Yuna hasn't had breakfast yet, Helen quickly went into action and brought over an extra large meal from the kitchen, balancing quite a few dishes towards the counter. Thankfully, Tilda was there to help her out.
Her appetite now restored, Yuna quickly wolfed down the meal before her. What was something even adult males would struggle with was a piece of cake for her. Soon enough, the counter was cleaned up, not a single speck of food remaining.
"Fufufu! You sure have quite the healthy appetite, don't you, Yuna?" ［Helen］
"Mou... Quit teasing me, Helen. I'm paying for all of these, you know?" ［Yuna］
"I know, I know. It's just good to see you back on your usual self. And now that you're done eating... Let's think about how to seduce Grey, okay?" ［Helen］
"Eh...? You... were actually serious...?" ［Yuna］
"Of course! Don't take the art of seduction so lightly!" ［Helen］
And in some strange turn of events, Helen suddenly pursued the topic of seduction where they left off. She even pulled out some romance books from God-knows-where for reference. She was raring to go at it.
Thankfully, her parents were there to stop her shenanigans. Gerd and Selia quickly confiscated the books, then gave their daughter quite the lengthy scolding. Yuna and Tilda could only watch, chatting as they enjoyed the desserts Helen brought out.
Time quickly passed, and before they knew it, the sky had finally started to change colors. Tilda was the first one to go back as soon as the break ended, and now that it was already late in the afternoon, it was also time for Yuna to depart once again.
"See you later, everyone～!" ［Yuna］
"See you next time, Yuna! Bring a lot of souvenirs, okay?" ［Helen］
"Un! You can count on me!" ［Yuna］
Hands were waved, and the sound of footsteps soon echoed. With her heart feeling much lighter than before, Yuna headed back to their house with a subtle smile on her face. She was still a little anxious, but she felt much better now.
The scenery which looked so bland and gloomy when she headed out was now very lively and beautiful as she headed back. The same fresh breeze greeted her on the way home, the birds chirping as the sky turned amber.
Before long, she finally reached their home, beautiful as it has always been. Another metallic creak echoed in the air as soon as she opened it. It was then followed by a series of clicks and clacks as the door was opened.
"Ah..." ［Grey］ "Oh..." ［Yuna］
But rather than Yuna, it was another familiar figure who opened the doors. He was just about to head out, halting his steps as soon as he saw his beloved. She was an angel, bright and sweet who suddenly appeared before her.
"Yuna... I was just about to pick you up." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! Sorry, but I'm just a little bit faster." ［Yuna］
"Yeah, yeah, sure you are... So, how was your day?" ［Grey］
"It was fun! I also met Tilda at the Rabbit's Den." ［Yuna］
"Oh, Tilda? Was she on a break?" ［Grey］
"Un! And......." ［Yuna］
It was as if nothing happened. The distance which felt so wide was nowhere to be seen, two figures simply chatting as they usually do, smiling ever so sincerely as they exchanged smiles with one another.
Especially Yuna. She may not be able to talk with Grey right now, but seeing his face once again, she felt all the burden in her heart suddenly disappear as if they were just fleeting lies. All she could do was giggle softly at her silliness.
"Oh, right, and Grey..." ［Yuna］
"Hm?" ［Grey］
"I'm home～!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Welcome home, Yuna." ［Grey］
CHAPTER 279 END