Pointy ears, long, straight hair, slender figures, beautiful faces, and eyes which shone like the trickling streams under the gentle sunlight. A number of figures stood proudly in the garden, looking perfect and picturesque with the flowering garden behind them.
One figure in particular stood out amongst the rest, his ash-colored hair waving in the air as her lime eyes gleamed beautifully. Even when he was simply standing there, he exuded an aura of grace and dignity one couldn't find elsewhere.
"Elrich, Lisania, it's been quite some time." ［Ernes］
"Quite some time indeed, Ernes. And as it seems, your children really have grown quite a lot, haven't they?" ［Elrich］
"Well, it has been years, after all. I even have a granddaughter now." ［Ernes］
Chatting like long time friends, both the King and the elven gentleman greeted each other with warm smiles. And along them, the Queen also greeted the lady besides the gentleman, waving their hands the moment they noticed each other.
"You aren't here to cause any troubles again, are you?" ［Elrich］
"Come on now, Elrich, people grow from their mistakes. Don't expect me to be as naive and mischievous as before." ［Ernes］
"Dear, you really shouldn't be lying like that. There are children listening." ［Tilia］
And along their friendly chat, the two men also recalled the past, making fun of each other as they recalled all the mischief and misfortunes they have been through. The King felt especially attacked as everyone ganged up on him, recalling all the troubles he created the last time.
Even the Queen was on the other party's side, not even trying to act merciful to her own husband. The King tried to defend himself, but against three opponents, it was simply futile. He was simply digging his own grave.
"Guh... You really haven't changed, Elrich." ［Ernes］
"Hahaha. I could say the same thing about you, Ernes... It's good to see you again, my dear friend." ［Elrich］
"The feeling is mutual." ［Ernes］
Yet despite all the teasing and mockery against each other, their conversation ended with a friendly handshake, soft and gentle smiles floating about their faces. Well, not only them but everyone else was the same.
After his short exchange with the King, the elven gentleman then turned his attention towards Grey and Yuna. The smile on his face grew even brighter as he drew closer towards their direction, his beautiful eyes gleaming magnificently with every stride.
He has yet to introduce himself, but Grey could already know who he was. To be able to converse with a King in such a casual tone, it could either mean that they were close enough or that they were of the same status. In this case, it was the latter.
"You must be Lord Grey and Lady Yuna, I presume?" ［Elrich］
"That is correct. And... It is a great honor to finally meet you, Your Majesty, King Elrich of Ingrasia." ［Grey］
He was a King as well, and compared to King Ernes, he was a much more dignified figure, not just outwardly but inwardly as well. The way he carries himself was more prim and proper for a King, not a trace of mischief to be seen.
Hearing Grey's words, Yuna also followed suit and greeted the King of Ingrasia with a light nod. They were still an "Archduke" and "Archduchess", after all. There was no need to kneel like they did before, establishing an impression in their first meeting.
"Oh? I did not think I would be this popular. To think even the esteemed heroes know of myself. I feel honored." ［Elrich］
"Please, you humor us too much, Your Majesty. There is no one who does not know of the wise and kind King of Ingrasia." ［Grey］
"Hahaha. That's good to hear, but Lord Grey, Lady Yuna... There's no need to force yourself to act so stiffly and formally. Please speak comfortably as you wish. Ernes had already told quite a bit about yourselves." ［Elrich］
It was quite a bit of a surprise, not only because King Elrich knew of their preference for casual conversations, but because of the disturbing fact that King Ernes was going about and telling other Kings information pertaining to them.
They looked in his direction, and the moment they did, King Ernes quickly turned his eyes away from them. Surely enough, he was guilty about it. With all the mischief he had caused, one could only imagine how much he's spilled. Oh, privacy be damned.
And like a coward, King Ernes quickly lifted up the Little Princess, using her cuteness as a shield to save himself. They have yet to hear his side, but one thing was sure. Someone won't be getting dessert this dinnerー no, for a whole month.
"Don't be too upset about Ernes. We only talked about trivial things, nothing which could harm yourselves. I swear on Ingrasia's honor." ［Elrich］
"I see... We'll take up on your word then, Your Majesty." ［Grey］
Thankfully, as it seems, they only talked about things which aren't really of that great of an importance. Grey had already checked it with his eyes so he knew that King Elrich wasn't lying in the slightest.
Rather, he was quite an admirable and honorable person, amongst the kindest from the ones Grey met. So kind, in fact, that it makes one wonder why he was so different from King Ernes despite the fact that they're both Kings. So mysterious, indeed. Grey once again looked at King Ernes.
Well, if it's just an invasion of privacy one is talking about, Grey wouldn't be safe either. As someone who appraises everyone he has met, he would only be a hypocrite if he denied the fact. The most guilty of them all.
"Well, this is already long overdue but we should at least introduce ourselves. I am Elrich fol Neril Ingrasia, the reigning King of the Kingdom of Ingrasia." ［Elrich］
"And I am Lisania fol Ingraisa, Queen of Ingrasia. It's my greatest honor to finally meet the esteemed heroes." ［Lisania］
After the King and Queen, the princes, the princesses, and everyone else introduced themselves one after another, smiles blooming on their faces as they bowed their heads. Some even had their eyes sparkling in excitement as they greeted the two.
But perhaps the one who stood out the most was their escort, a young man who had remained silent ever since. He was both a Lt. General of the Kingdom and at the same time, a High-Ranker at the peak of B-rank. A formidable bodyguard.
"The pleasure is ours. I am Grey of 'Aster', and this is my partner, Yuna." ［Grey］
"It's a delight to finally meet the Royal Family of Ingrasia." ［Yuna］
Of course, Grey and Yuna also introduced themselves soon after, reciprocating their greetings with smiles and courteously bowing all the while. With how gorgeous they were, it immediately left a deep impression on everyone.
This was especially true to one of the princes of the Kingdom. The moment he laid his eyes on Yuna, his heart started to pound like a racing stallion in the green and open meadows, his cheeks flushed red as he looked at her.
He was the third prince of the kingdom, Alistair, who was known for his purity and gracefulness. Despite being the same age as Grey and Yuna, and a member of royalty at that, he is yet to be engaged. A handsome prince who just experienced love for the first time.
"Hm? Is something wrong, Prince Alistair?" ［Yuna］
"Ah, n-no there isn't..." ［Alistair］
Or so he says, but it was obviously a lie. His suddenly flustered expressions and his flushed face were more than enough to tell he had fallen in the pits of love, his heart even pounding more fervently than before.
"N-No, actually! La-Lady Yuna, w-would you please be my bride?!" ［Alistair］
"Yes...?" ［Yuna］
What a bold prince he was! It has only been a couple moments since they met and he was already down on his knees, wishing for Yuna's hand in marriage. A sudden development which led to confuse not just Yuna, but everyone else as well.
His eyes were sparkling so innocently as well like a pure maiden in love, wishing for Yuna's hand earnestly and sincerely as one can be. His hands were even trembling in nervousness, hopelessly waiting for Yuna's response.
"Sorry, Prince Alistair, but I'm afraid we can't have that." ［Grey］
Unfortunately for the prince, it was Yuna that he fell in love at first sight with. Grey just couldn't leave things be, stepping in without wasting any time, standing between the lovestruck prince and his beloved Yuna.
"Huh...?" ［Alistair］
"As you can see... Yuna's already off the market." ［Grey］
Said Grey, ending his statement with a sweet smile as he raised both his and Yuna's hands, revealing the matching rings in their fingers, He was as merciless as one can be, crushing every bit of hope the prince had.
"Oh dear..." ［Lisania］
The prince was a good person, but if Grey didn't do what he just did, it would only turn to trouble later on. He had no other choice but to defuse the situation as quickly as he could. If wasn't that he was being possessive, no, not at all,
Though, because of his actions, the once sparkling prince was now withering away, the sound of his shattered heart echoing in the air. He just had his first love yet it was crushed on the very same day. Oh, what bitter and terrible fate.
"Hahaha. I knew I recognized those voices from somewhere." ［Richter］
And just as the situation was resolved, another figure entered the scene, his calm and familiar voice ringing in the air. It was the Azure Sword Emperor, and behind him was the Imperial Family of Valliarta, the current Emperor by his side.
"So it seems you finally tied the knot, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna. May your future be filled with love, fortune, and happiness." ［Richter］
"Thank you, Your Majesty." ［Yuna］
Grey and Yuna both lowered their heads as they expressed their gratitude to Ricter's regards. Though they barely knew the former Emperor, it was still a wonderful thing, hearing someone congratulate them on their engagement.
"Greetings, Emperors of Valliarta." ［Elrich］
"It's good to see you again, Emperor Richter, Emperor Reinhardt." ［Ernes］
"I could say the same to you, King Elrich, King Ernes." ［Reinhardt］
"Hahaha. It seems like yesterday when you two were just little children. Now, you're both amazing Kings. Time really flies, doesn't it?" ［Richter］
After greeting Grey and Yuna, the monarchs then greeted one another, expressing their delight after a long time of not seeing them. Richter was especially happy, a smile on his face as he recalled the times when the great sovereigns before him were but little children.
As one would expect, it wasn't just the Kings and Emperors, each member of the Imperial and Royal Families gave a greeting on their own. Even the brokenhearted Prince Alistair still did his best, acting courteously to be expected of a prince.
However, out of all the greetings given, only one stood out the most amongst the rest, showing off how cute and adorable she was with the little smile on her face...
"Hewwo～! Nalia, 2 years!" ［Natalia］
Of course, it was none other than the Little Princess, who, other than her name which she still can't pronounce quite properly yet, also added her age along her short and adorable introduction, striking the hearts of many.
It had just been a couple moments since they met yet everyone already fell in love with the adorable little girl, warmly fawning over her. And for some strange reason, King Ernes looked so smug as if he had just won a competition. Truly a doting idiot.
But the whole scene only proved one point, it was how peaceful the continent was. Though it had been ravaged by a terrible war centuries ago, now, it is only calm and flourishing, countries having friendly relations with one another.
In fact, amongst the five continents, Oiros is the most peaceful of all. Though there have been civil wars from time to time, there hasn't been any territorial wars since the warring era over two centuries ago.
Even the aforementioned civil wars were resolved with help from their neighboring countries, creating an alliance which had been withheld for centuries. It truly was a great place to be in, full of exciting adventures.
"Pardon the rowdiness of my descendants, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna. I hope you aren't too bothered by it." ［Richter］
"No, not at all. Rather, it's quite nice seeing everyone get along so well." ［Grey］
"Un! Even though they're royalty, it simply looks like a large gathering of friends and families. It's very heartwarming!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. They truly are." ［Richter］
Since he was no longer the Emperor, Richter simply slipped away as soon as he was done with the greetings and left everything else in the hands of his descendants. He was already retired, and so, he wanted some peace in mind.
And by peace of mind, he meant watching Grey and Yuna continue their cooking. It reminds him of his late wife who had always tried her best in cooking even though the result always came out terrible. Oh, such happy memories.
"Come to think of it, it seems like you two have gotten much stronger than the last time I've seen you. Especially you, Lord Grey, it seems you've broken through that wall. This is quite the achievement." ［Richter］
The Azure Sword Emperor was sharp as expected. Just like Kris, the very moment he laid his eyes upon Grey, he immediately noticed the different atmosphere about him. It was quite the surprise.
"You're praising me too much, Your Majesty. And... I would like to ask you a favor... Can you keep it a secret from everyone else?" ［Grey］
"Is it because it would be troublesome if others find out?" ［Richter］
"Well, yeah..." ［Grey］
"Hahaha. There's no need to worry about that. This old man will keep his mouth shut. I swear that upon my name." ［Richter］
Not only was he strong, he was considerate as well. After all, he was an adventurer before he was an Emperor. He knew full well the struggles of getting dragged around by the power struggle between nobles and royals. It was a pain in the ass.
Instead, he quickly turned his towards the hot pans and pots where oil was sizzling merrily. There, a couple of interesting foods caught his eye, especially the fried wings Grey just coated with some interesting looking sauce.
"This is a dish called 'Buffalo Wings', Your Majesty. Would you like to try?" ［Grey］
"Then, I shall kindly partake in your kindness." ［Richter］
"Here's also some sweet and spicy hot sauce if you want some." ［Yuna］
There was no trace of hesitation in his eyes. As soon as Grey offered some, Richter then picked one for himself and had a bite of the interesting dish before him. As soon as he did, a novel burst of flavor rushed inside his mouth.
It was tangy and spicy but not overwhelming to the taste. Crispy on the outside nut juicy on the inside, packing quite a bit of zest as he tasted it. Dipping it into the sauce, the flavors burst forth even more, filling his mouth with happiness.
He hasn't tasted such a thing like it before, and though he was previously reminded of his wife when he saw them cooking, the gap in skill was heaven and earth. If he had eaten it back on his adventurer days, he would surely be over the moon.
"How is it, Your Majesty?" ［Yuna］
"It's scrumptious, as one would say. Could I have some more?" ［Richter］
"Fufufu! Please help yourself, Your Majesty." ［Yuna］
"And Your Majesty, we also have some rice here if you want." ［Grey］
"Oh. Yet another interesting food." ［Richter］
Dwelling in his own world, Richter got himself a bowl of rice, some buffalo wings, and a serving of saul. He then proceeded to sear himself by the roses, happily having his meal. A simple yet delicious meal he's been missing for a long time.
"Then, I would also like to... add...... Great, Great Grandfather...?" ［Reinhardt］
Well, such peace didn't last too long. As he turned his head, the current Emperor quickly spotted him dining on his own. And like falling dominoes, after him, the others also turned their heads his way, wondering what he was eating.
It also didn't help that Alfrione's Royal Family was very much enjoying themselves with the food, the Little Princess happily even holding a drumstick from God-knows-where. Before long, everyone was filled with curiosity.
"We were just having lunch. Would you like to join us, everyone?" ［Yuna］
"Yes!" "It would be our pleasure." "Yes, please." "Thank you for the invitation."
There were a variety of responses, but in general, everyone agreed to join them for lunch, Grey taking out several more seats and tables for everyone to be comfortable in. As for their reactions...
"""Delicious～!!""" "I've never tasted anything like this!" "This is amazing!"
... There was no need to say any more. Though it varied from person to person, they thoroughly loved the food, bright smiles blooming on their faces as they enjoyed their meals with everyone, chatting and laughing merrily. Even the heartbroken prince now smiled from ear to ear.
Time soon passed and the merriness continued, and for some reasons, the number of people in the garden only increased as more Royal Families arrived time and time again, filling the whole garden as if there was a party going about.
So much so, that with how many people there are, the manor's chefs and cooks now helped Grey and Yuna out in preparing the food. It has become a lively orchestra, the flowers blooming beautifully in the background.
"Your Highness, how should we proceed with these pork chops?"
"Ah, that... You'll just have to......" ［Grey］
They didn't even understand what just happened. What was supposed to be a little event to celebrate the familiars' birthday had now become a full-blown party, each one of the participants a part of a royal family.
And for some reason, not just once nor twice, Grey and Yuna received all kinds of offers from status to proposals. Fortunately, Richter was there to help them out. Still, it was quite tiring to deal with them.
Though, it wasn't all bad things. They have been meeting many people, establishing connections with them, and created amicable relations. Even the most tiring work, the cooking, was left to the chefs, only instructing them from time to time.
"Fufufu! It sure became lively, didn't it?" ［Yuna］
"Haah... You can say that again..." ［Grey］
Grey's sigh drifted in the air and the merriness continued. Before long, the sky had finally turned amber and the sun had sunk down the horizon, the day ending before their very eyes as everyone started heading their own mansions.
Well, there was also a grand dinner, but it simply went the same as the party before it, a continuation so to say. After which, it was finally time to retire for the day, each one heading to their own rooms to enjoy the rest of the night.
Of course, Grey and Yuna also returned to their room, wanting to rest after quite the long day. Dealing with a single royal family was already quite taxing, but dealing with several more was even more so. It was fun and exhausting at the same time.
"Oh, bed... How I missed you..." ［Yuna］
And as one would expect, Yuna quickly headed to bed as soon as she arrived. Only this time, she took off her casual clothes and boots, changing to her cute and fluffy pajamas. She has become one with the bed.
"Grey～ Lay down here～" ［Yuna］
"My, you're quite aggressive tonight, Yuna." ［Grey］
"Mou... Stop teasing me. I just want to cuddle." ［Yuna］
"Alright, alright, in a second." ［Grey］
Having cleaned his clothes with magic and hung it on the closet, Grey then quickly changed to a more comfortable set of clothes. He then headed towards bed and lied down comfortablyー or so he wanted to.
However, Grey couldn't even head to bed properly. The moment he was in range, his ever so playful fiancée then grabbed him by the wrist and dragged him towards the bed, embracing him as soon as she could.
"Fufufu! I captured a wild Grey～!" ［Yuna］
Declared Yuna with a bright and mischievous smile on her face. She then proceeded to snuggle close to him, then cuddling and clinging to Grey with a naught of care in the world. The spoiled and clingy Yuna had come out once again.
"Yuna... Acting all cute like that... You're really asking to be attacked." ［Grey］
"Mou... You always say stuff like that, but no matter what I do, you always attack me all the same." ［Yuna］
"That's because my fiancée is always cute no matter what." ［Grey］
"Sure, sure, but that also means Grey is always the coolest!" ［Yuna］
Grey patted Yuna's head, and the latter reciprocated with a smile. They were already sickly sweet out in the open, but now that no one is around, calling them sweet would be an understatement. An idiot couple, indeed.
"Fufufu! I'm looking forward to the festival tomorrow! I can't wait to see what kinds of new things are there! There's also the food and all that!" ［Yuna］
"Hey, now, calm your horses, we won't be able to sleep at this rate." ［Grey］
"But...! I'm just so curious! I mean, what about......" ［Yuna］
Like a little child excited for their field trip, Yuna rambled on and on about what she's expecting of the Festival of Hearts and Grey, like a doting parent, listened to her ever so attentively, letting her rest in his arms.
The winds blew cold and darkness had engulfed the world. Yet despite all that, there was only warmth and happiness to be seen, two figures chatting the night away. They laughed and they giggled, notes of joy echoing in the nightly breeze.
Oh, the night was still long.
CHAPTER 285 END