Clang Clang Clang Clang
Sharp blades gleamed with a deadly glow, flowing like the gentle streams yet rushing with both speed and power, feisty sparks bursting like fireworks as the fierce clash continued to unfold, two figures exchanging blows whilst the winds rocked the earth.
Her silver hair fluttered and a dozen blades scattered in the air, riding along the winds and darting faster than all bullets. Her blade was like the free and agile swifts, making sharp and dangerous twists and turns like no other.
The princess tried to launch counter attacks at every opportunity she got, but with how relentless and overpowering her opponent was, all she could do was defend, her eyes swimming left and right, trying to leave as little of a gap as possible.
"Is this all you can do, Lisa?! Don't just hide and defend like a turtle!" ［Yuna］
"Easy for you to say! You're just too strong!" ［Lisandra］
"Excuses! Try wielding your sword if you have the leeway to talk back!" ［Yuna］
With the announcement of the King the day before, a bright and passionate flame of determination was lit ablaze inside her heart. She was even more wager to train, not wasting any time to dawdle around, and simply doing her best.
Of course, the best way of training she could get was through Grey and Yuna. Rather than waiting for the two to reach out to her, she was the first to ask for help. Their methods may be harsh, but they were just as effective.
Now, Lisandra was getting pummeled by Yuna, but she doesn't have any regrets. If she wants to win the Intermediate Division of the Carnival of swords, she needs to work harder than before. She would have her body sore all over than regret not doing her best for the upcoming event.
《Double Cross!》 ［Lisandra］
The cross opened up like a dragon's claw ready to crush Yuna, it rushed towards the young elf with the intent to destroy her, and in kind, so did the latter. There was no hint of hesitation in her eyes as she wielded her sword.
Yuna tightened her grip and raised her sword with a cold glint in her eyes. She waved her sword ones, a silver sword path gleaming in the air. A single slash was all it took for her to destroy the attack, shattering it like brittle glass.
The princess hit the brakes, leaving a large scar on the ground. She pulled her sword back, drawing mana from deep inside her, her sword shining brilliantly like a river of stars, soon glimmering brighter as she poured all her strength into her arms.
《Pierce!》 ［Lisandra］
She thrusted her sword, a beam of white emanating from it. A sharp blade of white rushed towards Yuna, darting like a lightning bolt. It was fast and deadly, packing enough force to decimate walls in an instant.
Yet however fast and powerful it was, Yuna's face remained unfazed and indifferent, striding towards Lisandra without a single stop. She thrusted her blade like Lisadra before her, eyes locked at the sword art, not blinking even once.
BOOOOMMMMMM
She hit the dead center of Lisandra's sword art, effectively canceling the rushing force without much effort. It shattered into fragments of brilliant light, soon fading to oblivion as the young lady continued to rush.
"That's not enough!" ［Yuna］
"Ugh...!" ［Lisandra］
Yuna finally reached Lisandra's range, brandishing her sword as soon as she did. A deafening clang rang out in the air as their swords clashed once more. The latter is now being pushed back, gritting her teeth tightly.
Her flanks, her rear, and the surroundings. The princess made sure to take note of the surroundings so that she could escape when needed be, trying to use everything to her advantage whilst she continued parrying Yuna's blows.
"Lisa... You think too much!" ［Yuna］
Even then, no matter how familiar she was with the environment, it still didn't prepare her for Yuna's attacks, a light wound opening up on her upper right arm as Yuna's sword grazed her. A little more and she would have been in danger.
And it wasn't just her arm, her legs, her flanks, her armor, and even her pretty face. All received damage from Yuna, blood trickling down all over her body. The more the fight continued, the more dire the situation became for Lisandra.
'Tch! I have no other choice!' ［Lisandra］
She was getting desperate. With her now pushed back into a corner, she used her own body as bait to Yuna's attack, leaving her chest wide open for Yuna's deadly swing. A single strike and it could pierce her heart.
Yuna was in shock. It was just a spar, after all. No matter how much of a demonic teacher she was, she wouldn't dare endanger a friend. She tried her best to stop her attack, pausing her movement and halting her sword.
It was only for a short time, but it was more than enough. In that little time, Lisandra pulled herself back and prepared for the biggest attack she could, pouring all the mana she had left whilst a bold smile bloomed on her face.
《Black Star!》 ［Lisandra］
She brandished her blade time and time again, blades of darkness floating in front of her. The more she slashed, the more blades appeared, concentrating into a single spot and turning into a sixteen-pointed star soon after.
She landed the final thrusts, and the black star bolted across the training grounds at breakneck speed, rotating faster and faster as it gained more momentum. A star more akin to a devastating meteor crashing towards the world.
"So that's how you want to play, huh..." ［Yuna］
However, there was not a shred of fear in Yuna's eyes. Rather, there was only anger and excitement. She drew her blade with mana coating it for the first time, a lengthy exhale leaving her mouth after she took a deep breath.
《Heavy Slash!》 ［Yuna］
She opened her eyes and an aura of domination filled the field. She raised her blade towards the sky and slashed from above. Her sword clashed with the black star, a resounding boom rupturing the air with such a destructive force.
Her blade seemed smaller, but it wasn't any less powerful. A single strike was all it took and the black star completely stoppedー or rather, it shattered into fragments yet again like the ones before it, drifting along the wind as they faded away.
"No wayー Eh?!" ［Lisandra］
Lisandra couldn't even be left in awe. A shadow suddenly loomed over her, a silver-haired figure appearing at the same time. Her face turned pale as snow, a sharp pain soon shocking her head as the hilt of Yuna's sword hit her.
"Oww! What did you do that for, Yuna?!" ［Lisandra］
Lisandra asked, but her face turned even paler as she witnessed the expressions unfolding on Yuna's face. She was still smiling like usual, it was a dark and terrifying smile, an irked vein popping on her forehead. She was pissed.
"You...! You still dare to complain?! Do you know how worried I was! You shouldn't put yourself in danger like that!" ［Yuna］
"It's fine. You can use healing magic, can't you?" ［Lisandra］
"Why you...! You still talk back to me after all that! Looks like you're really asking for a beating, young lady! Draw your sword! I'm going to teach you a lesson!" ［Yuna］
"No way! I'm going to die if I continue!" ［Lisandra］
Just like a mother scolding her daughter and the daughter talking back to her, Yuna and Lisandra bantered with such vigor. Even though she was in so much pain and wounds covered her body, the princess still managed to hold on and argue. She was quite something for sure.
Well, it wasn't like Yuna doesn't have a point. If something went wrong, she could have slashed Lisandra's heart. Even with holy magic and her potions, it was still too much of a risk to take. She has the right to be angry.
"Hahaha. Why don't we leave it at that, Yuna? Let's heal Lisa first, airtight? You did quite the number on her, after all." ［Grey］
"Ah, right... Sorry, I got too worked up." ［Yuna］
"Me too... I apologize for risking my life as well." ［Lisandra］
Thankfully, Grey was there to stop them. Otherwise, Lisandra would have lost blood and fainted before they could proceed with their they. It was good that they were getting along but their health was still top priority.
A little bit of healing magic later, and all of Lisandra's wounds were healed up, a warm feeling resonating inside her heart. Her face was beautiful once again, not a single scar left on it. A strong yet fair princess.
As for Yuna, there was really no need as she didn't even receive a single injury, but rather, she still has too much energy to spare. Still, Grey casted it on her just in case. She was quite the overprotective one, after all.
"Are you feeling better now, Lisa? Does it hurt anywhere?" ［Yuna］
"No, not at all. Thank you for healing me. I feel so much better." ［Lisandra］
"Great! Then let's continue our training, shall we?" ［Yuna］
"Okay...... Eh...? Training...?" ［Lisandra］
Lisandra's face was puzzled as can be, her eyes without soul or color. She wanted to act as if she just heard things wrong, but when she looked at Yuna's face, the smile was all she needed to see. The smile already told it all.
She already knew Yuna was a harsh instructor and sparring partner after training with her for the past several afternoons. But she didn't think she would suggest such a terrifying thing when she was just covered in wounds literally a minute ago.
"Umm... Now...? Can we take a break? I think my arms are still hurting." ［Lisandra］
"Oh my, I don't think that what I heard a couple moments ago. Didn't you say you were feeling much better just now? Lying is bad, you know?" ［Yuna］
There was no escape. With Yuna still a little angry over what trick Lisandra pulled just recently, there was no way she could squiggle her way out of such a situation. Yuna wanted to teach her a lesson she won't ever forget.
The Princess looked at Grey for help, tears forming in the corner of her eyes, but it was all in vain. Even Grey couldn't stop Yuna when she's already set her mind into it. All he could do was pray for Lisandra's safety and hope Yuna doesn't go overboard.
The training continued and Lisandra's tears fell towards the earth along her blood and sweat, dyeing the ground dark and dirty. However, such tears were useless as the training still kept on going. Her cries of agony resounded all over the place.
"Your Majesty, you ought to hide yourself a little better." ［Grey］
"Hahaha. I got caught, huh..." ［Archen］
At some point in time, the King dropped by to check on how his youngest was doing, hiding behind the walls and only peeking from time to time. Lisandra has yet to notice but he could never escape Grey's eyes. It was impossible.
It's true that he was still worried about his daughter, but seeing her work so hard, he would only be crushing the dreams she worked so hard to achieve. A smile bloomed on his face, satisfied to see his daughter having the time of her life.
"I'm only dropping by so don't go telling Lisa about this, and... Can you ask Yuna to go easy on her? She might quit if this continues." ［Archen］
"Don't worry. She's a strong one, Your Majesty. She won't break with just this much. She's your daughter, after all." ［Grey］
"I see... Then I leave everything to the both of you." ［Archen］
"Rest assured, Your Majesty. We'll do our best." ［Grey］
It was a short conversation, a set of footsteps echoing silently as the King took his leave. His daughter may be falling a lot and out of breath, but the determination in her eyes glowed brighter each and every time. He was satisfied.
As for Grey, he continued to move his hand, making lunch for the young ladies you are working their hardest. He tasted the dishes, a subtle smile blooming on his face as an explosion of flavors filled his mouth. It was delicious.
Lunch soon arrived and the sun sat on the highest peak. With the advent of noon, Lisandra once again fell towards the ground, Yuna's sword pointing at her as she panted heavily, trying to gasp for air.
"Okay. Let's stop here for now. You did well, Lisa." ［Yuna］
"Th,.. Thank you... Huff... Huff..." ［Lisandra］
"Oh, right. Sorry... 《High Heal》... 《Rejuvenate》." ［Yuna］
The princess has already lost count how many times Yuna had healed her, but she knew she had yet to land a strike towards Yuna. It was quite frustrating, but she was still happy. She could feel herself, albeit slowly, getting stronger.
The scent of lunch soon wafted throughout their noses, inviting them over. A bright smile appeared on Yuna's face at the same instant, her eyes sparkling and brimming with energy and delight, totally different from the cold eyes she was wearing just now.
"Lisa, hurry～! Grey is done cooking already! Let's prepare the table!" ［Yuna］
"Eh... Eh...? When did you get there?" ［Lisandra］
The young elf was too fast. Before Lisandra even noticed, Yuna was already by the dining table, preparing the plates and utensils. She was happily humming to herself, peeking at Grey and watching what her fiancé was making.
"Yuna, wash your hands first, alright?" ［Grey］
"Grey, I'm not a child anymore. You don't need to keep reminding me every single time, you know?" ［Yuna］
"I'm just making sure, My Dear." ［Grey］
Yuna complained but she followed Grey's instructions with a smile on her face. The princess followed suit soon after, searing themselves along the dining table, golden radiance greeting their eyes as they looked at the dining table.
The meal was grand as ever, a plethora of dishes from left to right, complete from meat, to dairy, to seafood, and greens. It wasn't the first time Lisandra ate Grey and Yuna's cooking, but she was still surprised every time. It was even more extravagant than the other noble's meals.
"""Thank you for the meal!!"""
The prayers were sent, and their spoons, forks, and knives dug deep towards the dishes Grey cooked. The meat was tender and juicy, the vegetables were flavorful, and the seafood were savory. It was like they're eating in a high-class restaurant,
"Mmn～! I really can't get enough of your cooking, Grey! They're all so delicious! Why don't you marry me instead, rather than Yuna? I'll be sure to make you the happiest man in the world!" ［Lisandra］
"Hey, Lisa! What are you saying?! Grey's mine, you know?! Find yourself your own fiancé! Or rather, don't you already have one?" ［Yuna］
"Ehh... But other than swordsmanship, he's so bad at everything. Can't you just share Grey with me, Yuna? Aren't we friends? Even once a week is enough." ［Lisandra］
"No means no! Right, Grey?!" ［Yuna］
"Yeah. I'm nor some object to be shared, you know?" ［Grey］
Grey and Yuna couldn't even laugh. Even when they knew Lisandra was only joking, they were still quite possessive of one another. The atmosphere in the place was much lighter and livelier, smiles and laughter floating all over the place.
"Ehh... If Grey isn't available then why don't you marry me, Yuna? I'll make you the happiest woman in the world!" ［Lisandra］
"Hey, what difference does that make? Why don't you marry a royal chef instead? Don't you think that's easier?" ［Grey］
"Mmn... You may be right... Should I ask Father to introduce me to one?" ［Lisandra］
"I'm sure His Majesty would oppose with all his might." ［Grey］
From a simple lunch to marriage talk, their conversation headed into weird yet fun to listen topics as they continued eating their hearty lunch. It was so fun, it made all of Lisandra's previous suffering seem like they were just passing lies.
Soon, the table was wiped clean and so were the plates. All of them were full and satisfiedー or at least, almost all of them were. Yuna was still looking at her finished cup of ice cream, still looking a bit hungry. She still needed a bit more sugar, looking like an abandoned puppy.
"Grey..." ［Yuna］
"Haah... Alright, alright, I'll make you another dessert. We still have a mountain-load of chocolates left anyway." ［Grey］
"Waah～! Chocolate～! Thank you! Do you need help, Grey?" ［Yuna］
"No need, it's easy to make anyway. This will be over in a jiffy." ［Grey］
A few ingredients were atop the table. There was only milk, chocolate, sugar, cocoa powder, cream, marshmallows, and some wafer sticks. It was a quick refreshment to make, the Princess peeking soon after, eyes filled with curiosity.
First, Grey chopped and melted the chocolate, stirring until it reached a smooth consistency. He then added some cocoa powder, sugar, and milk into the mix, continuing to stir until a liquid consistency, cooling it down soon after,
More milk was added along with some ice and sugar to match one's taste. With a little bit of whipped cream on top, along with some chopped chocolates, marshmallows, and cocoa powder to finish it, the sweet drink was finally done.
Of course, there were still other toppings like bits of dried fruits or some sprinkles, but Grey just left them as it is and just placed their cups atop so everyone could enjoy them however they liked. Three cups of frozen hot chocolate, ready to be served.
"Waah～! Frozen hot chocolate! My favorite!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Don't you say that with every dish, Yuna?" ［Grey］
"That's because everything Grey makes is delicious!" ［Yuna］
The two were flirting so casually, but the princess was tilting her head. It was her first time seeing such a drink, so she couldn't help but be curious. All she knew was that it was going to be sweet and delicious.
Lisandra didn't hesitate no more, holding the cup of chocolate with both her hands as she delivered it to the mouth. A rush of sweetness and delight exploded in her mouth, a touch of cream and fluff from the whipped cream and marshmallows on top.
"D-Delicious! I've never had a drink like this before! It's so smooth and creamy, and very sweet too! I love it!" ［Lisandra］
Excited like a little child, the princess was, as she continued to sip on the cup of frozen white chocolate, a bit of whipped cream latching on her lips. Her eyes were sparkling brightly like the stars, waving her head and body left and right in delight.
Grey and Yuna could only chuckle at the sight. She may be tomboyish, but like many of the women Grey knew, she had a sweet tooth. They soon followed Lisandra's lead, sipping in their own cups and enjoying it over a merry chatter.
Just like that, time passed and the sun started sinking down from the sky. The warm and gentle sunlight graced the ground and the cool breeze shielded the city from the heat. It was a time of peace and relaxation.
"Okay, that's enough rest. Let's continue our training, Lisa." ［Yuna］
"Eh? Five more minutes～! Five more minutes, please!" ［Lisandra］
"No, and that's final, Young Lady. It's either you get up and walk by yourself or I'll drag you to the training grounds. What will it be, hm?" ［Yuna］
"Uuu... Fine... I'll get up..." ［Lisandra］
"Fufufu! Great decision!" ［Yuna］
But like any other time, such peace and leisure didn't last for long. With their bodies now well rested, it was time to resume the training and strengthen their bonds with the swords. Reluctancy and despair loomed in Lisandra's heart.
And like any other time, Lisandra felt a great sense of danger pricking her heart as she held her sword. Yuna remained and acted the same, but there was something quite off about her. It didn't take long before the princess figured out what it was.
"Yuna, I was just joking before, you know? I wasn't really going to steal Grey from you... You know that, right?" ［Lisandra］
"My～ I don't know what you mean, Lisa～ You don't need to be so worried, you know? Everything will be just fine." ［Yuna］
Yuna said with a smile, and it was then that Lisandra knew there was, in fact, a need to be worried about. Yuna may be gentle and caring most of the time, but she is also a little possessive like any woman towards their man.
Especially when Lisandra declared she'll make Grey the happiest man in the world. Even if it was a joke, it was something she promised to do as Grey's fiancée. She was still a little upset, sulking a little over it whilst puffing her cheeks.
"Please go easy on me..." ［Lisandra］
It was all over. Her training was already hard as it is, and now, she just had to run her mouth to make things more troublesome for herself. She should have just kept her mouth shut and ate her delicious lunch in silence. All she had was regrets.
"Do your best, Lisa. If you survive, I'll make you another cupー No, I'll make you two cups of frozen hot chocolate every after your training." ［Grey］
"Really?! You mean it?! You need to keep your words, okay?!" ［Lisandra］
"Ehh?! Grey, what about me?!" ［Yuna］
"Same deal! Do your best, you two!" ［Grey］
"Un!" ［Yuna］ "Yes!" ［Lisandra］
Well, at least she's got something to look forward to...
CHAPTER 314 END