"Uuu... So difficult... Why is it so difficult..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. It's rare that you look so troubled, Yuna. Do you know you've been frowning and mumbling all afternoon?" ［Grey］
"Eh? Have I?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, you've been groaning so much, you'll probably have wrinkles tomorrow with all that frowning. It's already been hours, you know?" ［Grey］
Said the young man with a subtle smile blooming on his face, light-hearted as can be. He prompted the young lady to check on her forehead and see if there really were any wrinkles forming, slightly worried that Grey's words were actually true.
Well, there weren't really any wrinkles or the sort, however, the troubled expressions she made all afternoon until the evening was something to behold. Had there been no people around them, Grey would have taken a photo of such a rare sight.
Yuna's expressions weren't the only one changing, as so was the sky. After a long and eventful day, the setting of the sun has finally played out and darkness slowly veiled the sky. Stars popped out one after another, twinking ever so brilliantly.
DONNGGGG DONNGGGG DONNGGGG
With the evening bells ringing all throughout the city, Grey and Yuna now head back to retire themselves for the day, enjoying the cozy scent and warm embrace of home, Yuna soon laying down on their comfortable sofaー Or at least, she was going to.
However, before she even had the chance to, Yuna spotted the subtle stains of dirt and some blades of grass struck on her boots, still looking fresh as before. She has been so caught up by the problems, she totally missed them.
"Hm? Did I not use cleaning magic?" ［Yuna］
"You did. It's just that during that time, you weren't focused on casting, so it wasn't entirely effective. Your mind was somewhere else, you see." ［Grey］
"Eh?! Why didn't you tell me?!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. That's because you'll always be cute no matter how you look. Plus, it's rare to see you so empty-minded, I thought I'd just enjoy the treat." ［Grey］
"G-Grey, you dummy! You should have told me! Geez!" ［Yuna］
The young lady protested, but it was completely useless. Grey simply laughed it all off with a teasing smile painted on his face, clearly enjoying Yuna flail her delicate arms around as she pounded Grey's shoulders lightly, pouting all the while.
It was embarrassing... Just thinking about the whole afternoon where she was a tad but messy was enough to make her red. It felt like she was a child who rolls around the grass, making her pout even more.
However, what's done is done and Yuna can't turn the clock back. No matter how much she pounds Grey, nothing will change and she will only become even more embarrassed. All she could do was pout, taking her leave soon after.
"Hm? Where are you going?" ［Grey］
"I'm going to take a bath! And I want a delicious dinner as an apology! I want chicken curry, scrambled eggs, smoked ham, buttered lobsters, clam soup, and grilled steak! Don't forget the rice!" ［Yuna］
"Oh, dear... So demanding..." ［Grey］
"Hmph! That's not my problem! And for dessert, it's fruit pudding!" ［Yuna］
And there she goes. As soon as she made an unreasonable demand, Yuna stormed off towards the bath, summing a white towel from her storage ring. She tried to run away as fast as she could, but Grey could still see how red her ears were.
Well, I say unreasonable, but actually, that is just a normal meal for the two. She was trying to act mad, but it was clear that she was just trying to hide her embarrassment. Her attempt alone was enough to make Grey's heart skip a beat.
"Hahaha. My fiancée really is cute." ［Grey］
Grey chuckled, taking one final glance at the direction Yuna headed away. He then cracked his fingers a little and stretched his back while he was at it. Now, he heads to a battlefield of heat and accuracy. The kitchen awaits him.
Meanwhile, Yuna was now inside the bath, soaking her body in the temperate waters and hiding her flushed face behind the rising pillars of smoke. It is only now that she realized the way she stormed off only made her look even more childish.
"Grey... You dummy..." ［Yuna］
All the young lady could do was mumble her words softly, drifting in the steamy air. Yuna then decided not to think about it too much and simply wash and relax herself. She drew the tray of bath items towards her wind wind magic, using them soon after.
Soap, shampoo, conditioners, bath bombs, and many more. They are all new and yet to be released products Yuna had been experimenting and testing with the familiars. They are cosmetic products which are at the pinnacle of all.
It wasn't just the efficiency and usefulness of the products that Yuna improved. Be it the number of scents, the duration of the fragrance, the balance between mild and strong, and so on and so forth. Yuna made sure to tweak them all.
As many people know, Yuna was already a beauty to behold, but with her products in her hands, she only becomes more and more gorgeous and breathtaking with every passing day. Not even Queens and Princesses could compare.
"Hmm... This smells good... Should I add a more citrus aspect?" ［Yuna］
Even at their own home, Yuna actively seeks out ways to improve her products and make sure they become the best they could be. After all, she isn't just a Legendary Alchemist for nothing. Skills speak for themselves.
Soon enough, as several minutes passed, Yuna was finally done soaking in the bath and rinsing her body a final time. She draped a towel all over her body, drying her hair as carefully as she could, then pulling out a familiar magic tool.
FWOOOSH FWOOOSH WHOOOSH
It was a hair dryer, warm yet gentle. It was a tool made with just a bit of tinkering using magic and enchantments, making sure to dry the hair while not doing this rashly and damage the hair. It was one of Grey's first magic tools.
Before long, Yuna was finally done with drying, combing, and everything else, soon switching out to her pajamas with a bright smile on her face. It seems like it wasn't just her fatigue, but also her pouting was washed away by the bath.
After the bath, a short series of clicks and clacks echoed, the young lady finally out of the bath. Just a few steps later, and steps greeted with an orchestra of aromas from the kitchen, a young man tossing the ingredients, mixing them up soon after.
"Oh? You're back already? Looks like you're in a good mood." ［Grey］
"Un! The bath helped me clear my mind!" ［Yuna］
"That's good then. Why don't you take a seat? I'll join you afterwards." ［Grey］
"Fufufu! I won't be declining the offer then." ［Yuna］
There was no need to hesitate. As soon as Grey offered the young lady to take her seat, the latter then happily skipped her steps and headed towards the dining table. Her eyes sparkled with joy as she gazed upon the tasty dishes before her.
Though, she didn't sit down as soon as she could. She first headed towards Grey and observed him cook the final dish. A playful thought soon popped up in her mind and a sweet smile bloomed as she gave the young man an embrace from behind.
"Yuna, I'm still cooking, you know? We might get burnt." ［Grey］
"As if this heat will hurt us. And, don't I always do this everyday?" ［Yuna］
"... Fair enough. Hahaha." ［Grey］
Just a couple moments ago, Yuna stormed off whilst pouting, and now, she is sweet as can be, acting all spoiled and clingy towards Grey. She peeked like a little child at the dish sizzling in front of her, watching the man she loves cook ever so joyously.
Soon enough, the final dish was cooked and the flames were extinguished. Another plate was taken out and the contents of the pan was then slowly poured out. White steam rose from the dish, a delightful aroma drifting in the air.
The food was inviting them, arousing their appetites. There was no heed to waste any more time, the two soon taking their seats and taking a plate for themselves. They scooped up some rice and filled their plates, dishes then placed one after another.
""Thank you for the meal～!"" ［Grey and Yuna］
The pair gave their prayers, smiling from ear to ear. They soon took their first bites, and as one would expect, a strong and wonderful burst of flavor exploded in their mouths, caressing their tongues and filling their hearts with happiness.
The meat dishes were savory and tender, the lobsters were soft and juicy, the clam soup was bursting with umami, and the rice had a subtle sweetness in it. All of such flavors were dancing in harmony, strong but not overbearing.
"Mmn～! So tasty～! Grey really knows how to cook my favorites!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. If anyone were to see you, they might think this is your first time eating these dishes. We've been having this regularly, you know?" ［Grey］
"That's because they're too good! Grey's cooking is just the best!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. You have our spices and seasonings to thank for that." ［Grey］
Merusia was rich with herbs and spices, but most of them haven't been developed as far as the ones back on Earth. They might not be perfect copies, but Grey was able to bring them back one after another, stocking their kitchen with all sorts of things.
It isn't just the kitchen. Each and every part of their house was filled with all sorts of things Grey brought back from earth. From a collection or card and board games, to useful kitchenware, and even things like magical appliances. They have it all.
One could argue that Grey and Yuna's house is a paradise teeming with objects of technological advancements. Even Cedric is surprised every time he visits, looking like a countryside man as he asks for the uses of the things he finds curious.
"Yuna, stay still, you have some rice on your cheeks." ［Grey］
"Mou... I could have taken it off myself, you know..." ［Yuna］
"That won't do, My Dear. I want to spoil you again tonight." ［Grey］
Said the young man as he took the grain of rice from Yuna's cheeks, then feeding it to himself with a devious smile on his face. As soon as he was close enough to the young lady, he then leaned in closer and landed a kiss on her cheeks.
"Of course, I'll be taking my payment first." ［Grey］
Said Grey, once again smiling like a seductive devil, making Yuna redder than she was before. She's been constantly under such attacks, yet for some reason, she has yet to get used to it. She was so flustered, all she could do was eat in haste, trying to bury the surprise and embarrassment painted on her face.
"Yuna... You're really red, My Dear." ［Grey］
"S-Shut up! Grey, you dummy! You're such a bully!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. That's because my fiancée is just so cute～." ［Grey］
Flirting and shenanigans aside, Grey and Yuna continued on with their dinner and wolfed down all the dishes served before them. It was an amount more than enough for a dozen people, but it was nothing for them.
And just as Yuna was eating, a sudden thought popped inside her mind. Her hands slowing down as she thought of the refugees, especially the children they met just a few hours ago, wondering whether they were doing fine or not.
Not only did they play with them, Grey and Yuna also had a hearty meal with the children just before they went away. Despite facing such circumstances, they were still smiling so brilliantly, cheerful and merry as can be.
"Mmn... I wish everyone could also enjoy these... Hm?" ［Yuna］
It was sudden, but there it was. What Yuna has been searching for for the last few hours suddenly manifested inside her mind. It was as if her thoughts were going turbo, her gears clicking faster than before.
"That's it! Let's make everyone try these!" ［Yuna］
The young lady shouted with glee as she slammed the dining table with an excited smile on her face. She finally found the answer she was looking for, one which is able to fulfill all the wishes of the refugees and also her selfishness.
It was such a complex problem that Yuna started to search for complex answers. Yet despite all that, the answer she was looking for was actually the simplest of them all. It was so simple, Yuna felt silly after looking back through the whole afternoon.
"Yuna, My Dear, we're still having dinner. Let's mind our manners, alright?" ［Grey］
"A-Ah, unー No! Not that! Who cares about that now?! Grey! I finally got it! I found the answer and solution to our problems." ［Yuna］
"Hm? The answer...?" ［Grey］
Yuna didn't waste any more time and quickly started explaining to Grey about the solution she thought. It was also one Grey had already thought of before and was considering, seeming like their thoughts were really connected.
The idea was simple. Since they have all sorts of interesting items inside the house, why don't they also sell them en masse? Not only are they new and novel, they are also convenient for use and extremely efficient, products to improve the quality of life.
Of course, setting up a single shop would just be boring, so what Yuna had in mind was to sell them in a single building complex where people can relax, eat, purchase items, and play all they want. An ambitious project.
"What do you think, Grey? Cool, right?!" ［Yuna］
"Hmm... A special place where you can get anything and everything you want, huh... Hahaha. That sounds really familiar. Hahaha." ［Grey］
"Hey, it's rude to laugh against someone's idea...!" ［Yuna］
"Sorry, sorry, I was just so taken aback, I couldn't help it." ［Grey］
It was an absurd idea, for sure, one which might cause them to bear more problems than they already do right now. It was troublesome and ambitious, with a lot of difficult variables and circumstances to take note of.
However, it wasn't impossible. In a world where dragons exist and people could blow mountains off the map in a single strike, creating such a surreal solution only made more sense. All they need is to take the first step, then everything else will follow.
"Then, I take it that you agree, right? Let's head to the Merchants Guild right now! Let's secure ourselves a plot of land!" ［Yuna］
"H-Huh...? Right now?" ［Grey］
"Un! Time waits for no one, after all! We can finish dinner later, just place it inside your Inventory! Time is more important!" ［Yuna］
Though, it seems like the young lady was just a little too excited. She immediately grabbed Grey's hand and rushed towards the Merchants' Guild with a burning flame of passion dancing in her eyes, merry as can be when night had already fallen.
It didn't take long before they arrived at the Merchants' Guild. Unsurprisingly enough, their entrance caused quite the confusion, even leaving Guildmaster Marcel puzzled and bewildered by their sudden appearance in such a late hour.
What's even more surprising was their request which left both the Guildmaster and Mila speechless. The notion was so absurd, their jaws just dropped to the ground and the same also goes for Cedric the next day. However, that's a story for another day,
Just like that, time passed and after having a good night's sleep and a delicious breakfast to start the day, hectic hours were upon them. It took them quite a bit of time, but they finally made the initial plans, soon heading towards the refugee inn.
"A shopping mall...?" ［Melchor］
Much like the Guildmaster and Cedric, everyone was also confused by Grey and Yuna's sudden proposal, tilting their heads ever so slightly as question marks filled their heads, staring at Grey and Yuna with bewilderment on their faces.
After all, though large markets exist in Merusia, the concept of shopping malls has yet to be formed. To store dozens of different shops with different owners in a single is something new, something one hasn't heard of before. It was natural to be confused.
"Such a large project... Wouldn't it cost a lot, Your Highness?" ［Barrion］
"Not really. We'll be using magic, so the cost will lower a lot. Maybe just a few hundred thousand kiels at best?" ［Grey］
That was a lie.
While it's true that Grey and Yuna will be using magic and magic tools to not only speed up the process, but also make the cost more reasonable, it would still cost a few million kiels, maybe even reach the 7-digit stage.
Just the plot of land needed alone already costs the same as a large mansion, and though it is nothing much for them, such an amount is unattainable by normal people. It was best not to mention it, lest things will become more troublesome.
"This... Umm... Shopping mall, was it... Can we learn about it, Your Highness? It's not that we doubt you, it's just..." ［Melchor］
"The scale of the project is too big, right?" ［Grey］
"... Yes... I apologize..." ［Melchor］
"No need to. Actually, the premise is pretty simple..." ［Grey］
Grey and Yuna then explained the concept of the shopping to the three before them, making sure that they understood the main idea before moving on to some detailed information. It was still bare bones, but it was more than enough.
The two, along with Cedric and Marcel, had decided that it was best to make it in front of the central market where most traffic was concentrated, collaborating with many establishments and businesses to create a large central building for shopping.
Of course, as its main purpose is to give the refugees a sustainable lifestyle, most of the shops to be opened will be run and managed by them. Some spots could also be taken by other collaboration partners and people also in need of help.
To prevent competition with other shops and stalls, Grey and Yuna decided to sell original items they have produced themselves, teaching the refugees and workers how to make them and also have them learn the know-how to run a business.
The ground floor would be for consumable items like potions, spices and seasonings, cosmetics, groceries, and all sorts of things. The 2nd floor will be for crafts, furniture, art pieces, and equipment. The 3rd floor will be for games and entertainment. The 4th floor would be a food court. Lastly, the top would be a skypark.
Of course, even if it's a mall, Grey and Yuna wouldn't design it like a modern mall. Its architecture style would be a mix of european styles with a hint or fantasy elements. They can't have it stick like an ugly sore thumb, after all.
"But, Your Highness... Wouldn't this upset many of the market stall owners? We will be obstructing their business, after all." ［Teresa］
"Not necessarily... This project will draw more traffic into the area, meaning there will be a larger customer base, and even if some issues were to arise... I'd assume Their Highnesses have already made an arrangement with His Excellency." ［Melchor］
"Fufufu! You really are sharp, Mister Melchor." ［Yuna］
"That's right. We're already planning on making partnerships with several businesses and we've also made some compromise just in case." ［Grey］
"I see... So I was right..." ［Melchor］
It wasn't just a project which involved the refugees, but the whole of Galderia. It was a project which would shake up the economy of the city and could make it usher in gold and silver so long as the right steps are taken.
If the establishment of the shopping mall is successful and it expands even more in the future, it could very well attract more people to the city, creating a domino effect that will make the city bigger and more prosperous than before.
"A hospital, workshops, a school, residences... There's so many... Are you really making all of these, Your Highnesses?" ［Barrion］
"There are so many programs as well..." ［Teresa］
"Well, that's the plan, at least. Though, it might take them some time, but I'm sure we'll be able to make it. It's also exciting making things like these." ［Grey］
It wasn't just the whopping mall. Grey and Yuna are also planning to make all sorts of buildings to accommodate the refugees and solve their problems one after another. They already have the support of the King and the Guilds, so things are a lot easier.
Even the many problems with the children have been given solutions in great detail from schooling to apprenticeship programs, and even helping out in the shopping mall. It might take some time, but they want them to be able to stand on their own feet.
Of course, Grey and Yuna are willing to support them for as long as they need. Be it finances, social and emotional needs, or anything of the sort. As long as it is in their power, they are more than willing to lend a hand.
"Now, you said you wanted to help us, right? Actually, this isn't just for you, for others, and ourselves as well. We'll be able to give opportunities to others and we'll also be able to live more comfortable lives." ［Grey］
"Un! And if we get this mall built, we'll also be able to enjoy as much as we can! Be it food or games, we can enjoy it anytime!" ［Yuna］
"Not to mention how much we'll earn with this. We should be able to rake in hundreds of thousands every month. It's a win-win, no matter how you think about it." ［Grey］
It was a flawed logic and the two of them aren't even in need of money. However, if they need to convince the other side, they need to go at least that far. They are good but stubborn people, so they need a harder push.
It's not like everything was a lie anyway. With them working for the two of them, they will also be able to enjoy a more comfortable life, and they will be able to create new fun items with the use of some extra hands.
"Then, we'll be playing with the kids outside. Take all the time you needー" ［Grey］
"No, your words are more than enough, Your Highnesses. If you already went so fat to help us, it would be impertinent of us to ask for any more," ［Melchor］
"Don't mind that. What's important is how you feel. Is this really alright?" ［Grey］
"Of course. Like Your Highnesses said, not only will we be able to help you, but this project will also help others. Much like how you gave us a second chance in life, it is only proper that others experience the same opportunity as well." ［Melchor］
"I don't really know how the market works, but if this is the best for everyone, then shouldn't we just accept it?" ［Barrion］
"Fufufu! Barrion's right. This is the best we could wish for." ［Teresa］
There was no use thinking too much about it. With the way things are, there was no offer out there as wonderful as the one presented before them. Moreover, it was their saviors, so there was no need for doubts and distrust.
A smile bloomed on everyone's faces as they came into an agreement, hearts now at ease. Grey and Yuna extended their hands, and the other party did the same. With this, all that was left was signing the papersー
"Then, we'll be in your care, Your Highー" ［Melchor］
"""Uwaahhh!!""" """Agh!!""" """Woah!!"""
... Or at least, they were going to do so. But before they could even start, the door suddenly opened and a number of familiar faces came pouring in, tumbling one after another. The kids wore really eager and excited faces.
"Hahaha! Looks like we have some really naughty kids here." ［Grey］
"Mister Melchor, everyone, let's leave the signing of the papers and documents later. We'll be playing with the kids first." ［Yuna］
"Are you sure, Your Highness?" ［Melchor］
"Un! We have all day, after all! You can read them all again while we play with the kids, and can you make sure to double check it? Please, and thank you!" ［Yuna］
Once again, they were off like a storm. As soon as Yuna gave her words, she then headed outside to play with the little children, the little ones squealing and cheering ever so happily as they rushed down the halls. Grey followed soon after.
As heroes who saved many countries and could defeat disastrous monsters, many often forget Grey and Yuna are just people like them. They may not be so normal, but they also wish for the same thing as everyone else, just as human as they are.
"Hahaha. It seems like I've really gone senile..." ［Melchor］
"Hm? Is there something wrong, Sir Melchor?" ［Barrion］
"Hahaha. Nothing... Nothing at all..." ［Melchor］
But seeing them act so freely and playfully like their age, it was easy to see that they were just like anyone else. It was so silly that such a thought often slips their minds, everyone chuckling albeit subtly as they realize such a thing.
"Well, these papers aren't going to finish themselves. Let's finish them as quickly as we can and eat snacks with Their Highnesses. Let's do our best." ［Melchor］
"Understood." ［Barrion］ "Yes!" ［Teresa］
CHAPTER 455 END