"Haaaahhh...." ［Grey］
A lengthyー no, an extremely lengthy sigh was adrift in the air, a young man trudging his feet along the streets and he heaved his chest heavily. His violet eyes were painted pale with exhaustion, expressions lacking any life and color.
Grey had just finished his talk with the Guildmaster, and finally, he could take a deep and refreshing breath. It was exhausting to go around the capital and interview a lot of people, but for some reason, talking to the Guildmaster was even more so.
The young man never realized how big of a breakthrough instant foods were for the travelers and adventurers of Merusia, the Guildmaster ranting about all the hardships he experienced due to the terrible food which they ate during the journey.
It took Grey quite some time to calm the other party down, but even then, quite a lot of questions were still asked. Velzier even offered to invest on the idea, ready to whip out all his riches just to make such a dreamy proposal come true.
"It's a good thing I didn't mention we'll only be selling at Galderia's soon-to-be mall for now... Otherwise... Haha... It would have been hell." ［Grey］
There was no point thinking too much about it. Had Grey mentioned such a fact, the Guildmaster would have been surely upset about it. They may be able to supply a couple stocks towards the Royal Capital, but it would still take some time.
Speaking of supplying products, Grey had also been thinking of preventing the act of reselling their products. The act of reselling itself isn't really that much of a problem, but if they were to charge absurd amounts for them, it would get troublesome.
Grey was thinking along the lines or runes, but there really was no telling how much one sells it for using that. If there was, it would need an extremely complicated web of runes which Grey's current level has no way of making. It was simply too difficult.
"Haah... Forget it... It's useless thinking about it... I'll just let His Majesty deal with it. He owes us a lot of favors, after all." ［Grey］
In the end, Grey simply left it in the hands of the King. After all, there are also laws against price gouging present in the Kingdom. While Grey doesn't exactly know how effective they truly are, it's still better than nothing.
Even if Grey and Yuna wouldn't be able to reach the King all the time, there was still Cedric and Guildmaster Marcel to assist them in most legal matters. With their years of experience, surely, they already have solutions to such common problems.
"Welp... What happens, happens, I guess... I'll just deal with it when the time comes..." ［Grey］
Said the young man, throwing away all useless thoughts and simply thinking of the current problem before him. He soon took out a piece of candy from his Inventory, indulging in its sweetness and soothing himself with delight.
"Milk candies, huh... I should have Yuna try these sometimes..." ［Grey］
Mumbling and humming, Grey then took out his notepad and his pen, continuing to write down his observations and soon asking people one after another once more. Break is already over, and now, it is time to work once again.
Grey went left, he zoomed right, and he dashed towards the front. Grey marched all over the streets once again and gathered even more data than before, also buying a mountain of things which interested him.
The only thing different this time is that Grey is interviewing more specific groups of people, making sure to take note of the more extreme ends of the spectrum. Soon enough, he finally finished his little adventure, the 3pm bell ringing across the city.
"Agh... So exhausting... I'm never doing this again..." ［Grey］
Or so he says, but knowing his and his beloved's personality, there was no way such a thing would happen. They'll probably continue to go on and help out people like they are doing right now. It may be exhausting, but it is also gratifying.
Besides, it may be because to Grey it was different from what they usually do, but somehow, it was quite fun going through with the project. It was a nice change of pace, Grey feeling amazed and satisfied as he noticed new angles of life.
"Oh, donuts... How neat." ［Grey］
But perhaps the most fun thing was trying out all sorts of food he found in the capital. It was a shame that Yuna wasn't with him, but the food was still really delicious. The meat dishes especially stood out the most. They were delectable.
Without much thought, Grey headed towards the donuts stall and bought a couple boxes of donuts from the stall owner. He made sure to snack on some, all the while leaving some boxes for Yuna and the others to enjoy later.
And just as he was doing so, a familiar figure came into view. Grey's eyes happened to linger by the adjacent shops, one of them a jewelry shop filled with all sorts of great and brilliant accessories, gems and crystals glimmering all over the place.
'Hm? Isn't that....' ［Grey］
But perhaps the one who stood out the most was a young lady. Her hair was red as the evening sky during sunset, her eyes were pink like pristine roses blooming ever so flagrantly in the forest, and she displayed herself with the grace of nobility.
No matter how Grey thinks about it or how different she was dressing, there was no way Grey wouldn't recognize such a beautiful figure. Rather, he was curious why she was inside the jewelry store, and alone at that.
"Here's your donuts, Boy. That would be 700 kiels in total."
"Ah, yeah... Here you go. You can keep the change." ［Grey］
"Ohh! How generous! Come back again, Young Man!"
"Yeah. Will sure do." ［Grey］
Driven by curiosity, Grey soon headed towards the store and entered on a whim, a series of soft chimes echoing in the air. Along with a box of donuts, he also took out quite a few snacks, even including a cup of cold juice as well.
Not much thought going on in his mind, Grey approached the young lady, his steps barely audible and his presence thin as can be. It was as if he was a living phantom walking under broad daylight yet not a single soul was able to notice him.
Meanwhile, the young lady in question continued to eye the items, her eyes filled with disappointment as she shook her head slightly, clearly unsatisfied at the large display of accessories in the store. Disappointment which turned to surprise when....
"Eeekk!!" ［Amelia］
... out of nowhere, a cold chill caressed her cheeks as a cold glass of juice touched her, making her jolt almost instantly. She soon turned towards the direction where the cold glass came from, greeted by an unfamiliar figure.
"Yo." ［Grey］
Grey said ever so casually, but the same couldn't be said for Amelia. More than just confused, she was extremely speechless about what just happened. Not only does she not know who the young man was, she was also confused by his casual actions.
She stared at him and stared some more, her eyes scrutinizing the young man before her. Before long, she was finally able to piece the pieces together, finally realizing the young man despite the drastic and sudden change brought by his disguise.
"... Umm... Grey...?" ［Amelia］
"Hahaha. Bingo. You got me." ［Grey］
Grey confirmed her suspicions, but the young lady was still confusedー or rather, she was more confused than ever. She knew Grey could change the colors of his eyes and hair using illusion magic, but she never knew he was so proficient that even his facial structure differed quite a bit, it was amazing.
As for Grey, well... He remained casual as ever. It was fun teasing Yuna, but teasing and annoying other people was just as fun. It was fortunate that Julius wasn't around, else the shop would have turned into a war zone, the two of them bickering as usual.
"Want some donuts?" ［Grey］
"Ah... Yea... Yes... That would be fantastic." ［Amelia］
Soon enough, Amelia finally gave up thinking. He may look different, but the way he acts so casually, his voice, and his speaking pattern was undoubtedly Grey's. She simply accepted the donut and the glass of chilled fruit juice as well.
After which, the two then headed out of the store and walked down the streets while enjoying the snacks Grey just bought. It was just the right time as well, Amelia able to eat some stress-relieving sweets and able to heave a relieved sigh.
As they walked, Amelia also spoke about the reason why she was in the jewelry store alone. It seems like she was picking out a present for Julius' birthday tomorrow, which is coming up tomorrow, and has been debating what to give him.
Her family already selected a present for Julius as a Ducal Household, but Amelia also wanted to pick one out for him as his fiancée. This time, she's also using her own money which she earns through adventuring with Julius.
Speaking of adventuring, it seems like after training for such a long time, she finally reached C-rank, just like Julius, and is now on par with a Royal Guard. It's also the reason why she doesn't need any escorts as she is already strong enough herself.
"I see... So you're picking out a gift for Julius, huh..." ［Grey］
"Yes... I was supposed to select a present for His Highness the previous week, but because of my academic responsibilities, I sadly was not able to do so." ［Amelia］
"Right... School just started, didn't it?" ［Grey］
"That is correct. We recently finished the 3rd week yesterday, however, since the academic year had just begun, there are a lot of matters to address. I happen to be part of the student council, so my schedule has been quite hectic." ［Amelia］
"I see... You're really reliable, after all. As expected of a Duke's daughter." ［Grey］
"That may be so, but oftentimes, I simply wish to be free... Well, not that I hate my life right now, mind you. I am already quite satisfied with my situation." ［Amelia］
So the young lady says, and by her words, she wasn't referring to her social status as a Duke's daughter or the privilege she enjoys as a noble. She's simply happy that she gets to enjoy life with Julius, though a bit hectic.
As for Grey, he was just happy that he didn't have to attend school anymore. It's a shame that he couldn't see Yuna in different academy uniforms, but he simply buried the desire in his heart. He soon started thinking of gifts for his "Best Friend".
"A gift for Julius, huh... I think I have one." ［Grey］
"Truly?! Could I know what it is?" ［Amelia］
"Yeah! You should buy him a book for common sense! I'm sure it'll help him a lot, and yourself as well! It's the perfect present!" ［Grey］
Proudly and confidently proclaimed the young man with a bright smile on his face, clearly and genuinely expressing his feelings. After all, it's Julius we're talking about. Such a book would definitely be useful for him. Meanwhile, Amelia....
"... G-Grey! I thought you were serious! I was anticipating it as well!" ［Amelia］
"Hahaha! Sorry, sorry, I just couldn't help it, but I'm half-serious, you know? Remember that time he brought a tiara to Liz' birthday party? That's not something people with common sense would do... Not even one bit." ［Grey］
"Uuu... I cannot deny that... I do admit that His Highness has moronic tendencies a lot of times, but is that still not too much? His Highness is still your friend." ［Amelia］
"It's exactly because he's my friend that I'm doing this. And... It's Julius, you know? I'm sure he'll like anything you give him." ［Grey］
Or so he says, but Grey was in no position to say such a thing. He knew full well that he is a fool for Yuna and was in the same situation as Julius for Amelia. He just kept quiet about it and let Amelia sort her thoughts for a while.
"That may be true, but... I still want to pick out a gift for His Highness. I want him to know and remember just how special he is to me." ［Amelia］
Though... It seems like her answer had already been long decided. After all, there is no greater joy than picking out a gift for your loved one and seeing them happily cherish it, smiling brightly in return. Grey shares the same sentiment.
"Well... That sounded cheeky, didn't itー" ［Amelia］
"No, not at all. I would have done the same if I was in your place. That's why... As an apology for teasing you just now, how about I help you around the capital? I was just exploring the place and found some pretty neat spots." ［Grey］
"T-Truly?! B-But, I am not troubling you, aren't I?" ［Amelia］
"Not really. I'm already done with my work, and there's still some time left. Even if I'm a little bit late, I'm sure Yuna will understand." ［Grey］
"...! Thank you! Thank you so much, Grey! I will never forget this favor!" ［Amelia］
"Hahaha, that seems a bit excessive. I'm just helping out as friends should, and I was also thinking of buying Yuna something nice... Let's get going, shall we?" ［Grey］
Grey asked, and Amelia nodded her head vigorously in response. Soon the two went around the whole capital, Grey leading Amelia through the shortcuts and showing her some nice places, some undiscovered gems, he found throughout the day.
Amelia's budget wasn't too shabby either, having a little over 200 thousand kiels in her person from taking quests for over a year already. It was enough to buy a decent and fully-furnished house. A simple yet memorable gift was just in grasp...
""Haaahhhh..."" ［Grey and Amelia］
... Or so they thought at first, however, despite all the freedom they had to choose a gift, they just couldn't find the perfect gift for Julius. Everything was either too flashy and inconvenient, dull and simple, or something the latter already has.
They went to jewelry shops, fancy boutiques, smithies, luxury goods shops, magic tool shops, and many more, yet somehow, they still weren't able to find something worthy to be considered a proper gift. The threshold was too high.
All they could do was heave lengthy sighs and rest themselves on a bench. They are now in the far outskirts of the Royal Capital, barely any people walking by the streets and silence looming over them, both clearly exhausted.
"Haah... It's already almost sunset and we still haven't found anything..." ［Grey］
"I apologize, Grey. I dragged you into this exhausting walk." ［Amelia］
"Don't be. I was the one who suggested it, after all... At this point, we might as well just buy any matching item. I'm sure Julius will still be over the moon." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! He truly will." ［Amelia］
Yet despite all the exhaustion they are subjected to, Grey is still able to joke around and Amelia was still able to giggle softly. It was a joke which suddenly sparked an idea inside Grey's mind, one final resort popping out of the blue.
"Oh, right... Speaking of matching items, I actually made quite a number of things while thinking of a present for Yuna's last birthday. They aren't my best works, but would you like to take a look, Amelia?" ［Grey］
It was a sudden question, and all the young lady could do was tilt her head. Soon, Grey brought out the matching accessories he was talking about, ranging from rings to necklaces, and even some enchanted equipment.
He previously said they weren't his best works, but as one would expect from a Tier-8 blacksmith, they're quality was top-notch! They all sparkled brilliantly before Amelia's eyes, immediately drawn in by the beauty of such crafts.
"Amazing... Did you make all of these, Grey?" ［Amelia］
"Yeah, I make them from time to time... Only when I'm free though." ［Grey］
Grey's words are barely registering in Amelia's ears anymore, the young lady fully absorbed in picking out which one was the best. They were all beautiful, but one of them stood out the most, Amelia finding it quite curious.
"Grey... What is this necklace?" ［Amelia］
"Necklace... Oh! You mean this locket?" ［Grey］
"Locket...?" ［Amelia］
"Yeah. It's some kind of pendant attached to a chain and has a small compartment. You normally put precious items inside like photos or the like and..." ［Grey］
Grey explained, all the while demonstrating what the locket was capable of, showing Amelia how to use it and what kinds of things she can store inside. It was also a type of special locket, one that could be joined together to form a beautiful rose.
It is one of the prototypes Grey made when making a locket for Yuna, and one made of gold, platinum, and many precious items. The final product was even much better, though they don't really use it much. They are always around each other, after all.
Though, it seems like such a sentiment doesn't really hold true for Amelia. She has been entranced by such a beautiful piece of accessory, her eyes sparkling brightly like the gleam of the locket, clearly interested in it.
"You can have it." ［Grey］
"E-Eh?! All of the sudden?!" ［Amelia］
"I mean, I took it out so that you could choose a present, didn't I? Or, would you rather have another item instead?" ［Grey］
There was no direct answer, the young lady simply too stunned to speak. She then shook her head slightly and held the pair of lockets close to her heart. There was nothing more to say about it. She was incredibly happy.
"R-Really! Thank you so much, Grey! I'll never forget this!" ［Amelia］
So much so, that she quickly suddenly gave the young man a tight hug. It was only for a short while, though. After all, a young lady still has to maintain her dignity. Plus, it was quite embarrassing now that she thinks about it. Grey could only chuckle.
"W-Waah! I-I apologize for showing you such unruly behavior, Grey! You are not offended, aren't you?" ［Amelia］
"Hahaha. You worry too much, Amelia. If it's like that, you can just pay me for the locket, and we'll call it a deal." ［Grey］
"A-Ah! Of course! How much is this, Grey?!" ［Amelia］
"Huh... Ah...? I was just joking, you know?" ［Grey］
"No! I insist! As a noble lady, it is only fair that I compensate fairly for the product I received! We may be friends, but this is a matter of honor and dignity!" ［Amelia］
Though, after a little moving scene, what followed after was a comedic bit between Grey and Amelia, the former wanting to give the locket for free, and the latter wanting to pay for it. The two opposing opinions clashed, a ruckus soon breaking the silence.
In the end, the two finally settled with a price. Grey simply had Amelia pay for the price of the raw materials, and nothing else. After which, Grey then escorted the young lady back to their mansion, heading back home himself soon after.
By the time Grey arrived back home, the sun had already set and the day was long over. He soon undid his disguise and sat himself on the couch, relieving his fatigue with a little bit of rest. Yuna came a little bit soon after.
"Oh? You're back already, Grey?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah. I was able to finish gathering data, and also got a jew idea for a shop. How about you? How did the negotiations go?" ［Grey］
"They all went well, and we were able to secure more partners. Though... I don't really remember much since so much happened all day." ［Yuna］
"You didn't cause Cedric and the Guildmaster trouble, did you?" ［Grey］
"How rude! Just for your information, I was really helpful, you know?!" ［Yuna］
It hasn't even been a minute since they came back home, and the whole house was already filled with life and colors, laughter and giggles in the air. Yuna soon took off her boots, her formal attire, and changed into more comfortable clothes.
Soon, the young lady joined Grey on the couch and snuggled close to him, resting her head on his shoulders. It was cozy and peacefulー or at least, it was at first, when suddenly, an unfamiliar sensation pricked Yuna's nose.
"Hm... Perfume...?" ［Yuna］
It seems like Amelia's perfume has somehow stuck to Grey's clothing after all the time they spent together, especially the final hug at the end. With the sharp senses of a Transcendent. Yuna was able to pick it up almost immediately.
"Grey... Why do you have a woman's scent on you...?" ［Yuna］
A scary question... Or at least, it's usually supposed to. But rather than jealous, Yuna was more confused if anything, a little bit curious about why Grey has the scent of women's perfume on her. After all, Yuna knows how head over heels Grey is to her.
Meanwhile, Grey was lost in thought after hearing Yuna's question. He titled his head a little bit, debating inside his head whether he should answer honestly or whether he should play around a little bit. He's a bit devious, after all.
"Actually, while I was exploring, I happened to meet Amelia and..." ［Grey］
In the end, Grey decided to just tell the truth and not spare a single detail. From the moment she met Amelia all the way to the time they parted ways, he told Yuna all about it, the young lady simply listening attentively.
"I see... So that's what happened... But... Why the long pause...?" ［Yuna］
"Ah, that... Well... I was actually contemplating whether I should tease you and make you a little jealous... But, well... That would be too cruel though." ［Grey］
"G-Grey! That's too much!" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, that's why I didn't. I don't want to make you cry again, after all." ［Grey］
"You dummy! You shouldn't have even considered it at all!" ［Yuna］
Soon, even Grey's plan to tease Yuna and make her a little jealous was revealed, much to the young lady's shock and surprise. She soon started pouting and puffing her cheeks, all the while pounding Grey's shoulder and chest.
As for Grey, well... He was simply laughing to himself, finding Yuna's reactions even cuter than he imagined. It was the right choice to simply tell her the truth. She likes teasing her, but making Yuna cry maybe a little bit too much.
"You meanie... You always tease me..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. That's because you're too cute. I just can't help it." ［Grey］
Now, the young lady is pouting and sulking, and Grey is patting her head to console herー Though not for long. All of the sudden, Yuna suddenly sat up and then pinned Grey towards the couch, much to the young man's confusion.
To make him even more confused, the young lady suddenly leaned her head close to his and seductively bit his nape. It may be all because of Grey's teasing, but Yuna suddenly started acting more proactive and aggressive than usual, face and ears flushed red.
"Y... Yuna... Dear, we're still in the living room, you know?" ［Grey］
"I know... That's why, carry me to our room already, dummy! Or... Should I make a barrier right here, right now?" ［Yuna］
A crazy question and a crazily red blush painted on Yuna's entire face. It was obvious that she was embarrassed, but she decided to hold her fort, firm and solid, her heart racing madly and her feelings for Grey only growing stronger.
It was rare that Yuna was so proactive, and it was a critical hit on Grey. He could barely think straight, his head filled with all sorts of thoughts about the young lady. He just loves her so much, it feels like his heart was about to burst.
"You... You really know how to drive me crazy..." ［Grey］
"Hmph... Now you know what it feels like." ［Yuna］
Nothing more left to be said... It was a long and steamy night ahead of them...
CHAPTER 457 END