"Agh... Dammit... We were so close to completing the quest, too..."
"If we only had one more horned rabbit horn, it would have been a done deal."
"There's no use stressing about it now. How about we drink at the tavern instead?"
"Ohh! That's a good idea! Let's drink 'til we're drunk!"
Merry and boisterous laughter was adrift the air, a big and burly man dawdling around the place as they went on with their everyday lives. Some headed to the counters, a few were looking at the boards, and some resting themselves by the benches.
It was still early in the morning, and the Adventurers' Guild was already bustling with life and energy, adventurers heading in and out the Guild with requests forms, proof items, new equipment, and various expressions with them.
And in that very same Guild, a young lady was standing by the advertisement boards, the sound of subtle ruffles riding the air as she posted a piece of paper up top. There were all sorts of texts, numbers, and colors, easily catching everyone's eyes.
"And... There we go!" ［Yuna］
Of course, that was the very purpose of the papers. They were advertisement fliers Grey, Yuna, and a handful others have been posting all throughout the city for the upcoming grand opening for "Esperanza", a shopping mall they just finished.
Ever since Grey's birthday, they have been running test runs day in and day out to make sure the mall was running smoothly. They found quite a bit of issues, but they were fixed soon after with a little bit of thinking and tinkering.
It's been over a week since the 1st test run, and since then, the refugees were getting more and more adept in dealing with people. Some are still nervous, but they are now able to perform their roles without fail. They've grown a lot.
"Ohh～! So you're finally opening up the mall..." ［Tilda］
"Un! It's been a lot of work, but we finally managed to pull it off!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! Only you and Grey can manage to pull something like this in just a month. Are you sure you aren't overworking yourselves?" ［Tilda］
"It's fine～! High-Rankers aren't that fragile, you know? And... Now that Esperanza is finished, I can go on lots of dates with Grey! Fufufu!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! So that's what you're really after, huh?" ［Tilda］
All thanks to their outstanding reputation, Grey and Yuna could also go around major establishments and post their advertisements fliers there without much problems. It costs quite a bit, but for publicity, it was worth it.
Of course, Grey and Yuna aren't just going to stop in Galderia. They also plan to spread some gossip and fliers to nearby territories to attract a lot of people to visit Esperanza. The more successful the business is, the better it will be for everyone.
Well, it will sure become troublesome later on, but thanks to Guildmaster Marcel's recommendations, they finally have capable people with could be trusted with the mall's day to day operations, and important transactions as well
It was an extremely tiring month for them, but with everything not practically done and dusted, there's no need for them to intervene for every little thing. All they have to do is kick back, relax, and help out from time to time.
"Ohh～... Isn't this the thing Their Highnesses were making?"
"They're already opening? So quick!"
"Hahaha! What did you expect from Their Highnesses?! You should have seen it when they built the place! I only took a day!"
"True! Hahaha! I was so surprised when I suddenly saw a building pop up when I came back from a quest! It was like a miracle, I tell you! A miracle!"
Before long, people started gathering by the advertisement boards and eyed the flier Yuan just posted. It was a topic which has been talked about by many people, so it was no wonder people quickly got hooked and interested about it.
The power of rumors is amazing. Grey and Yuna only invited a couple people to test out the mall, and with them, spread lots of positive rumors about the shopping mall, people wanting to hear more and more every passing day.
Of course, there were some conspiracies at first, but after more people experienced it for themselves and shared them with more people, things quickly got better. If there was anything left in the people's hearts, it would be curiosity and excitement.
"Ohh! A 50% discount on the first 3 days?! Isn't that amazing?!"
"Hm? Wouldn't that be a huge loss for them?"
"Who cares about that?! I'm definitely going!"
"Same here! I was just thinking of buying new equipment so this is good news!"
But perhaps what speaks the most to the potential customers was their own greed and desire. Grey and Yuna made sure to print in detail just what exactly they have to offer, and made sure to stimulate their desires with a bit of a discount.
For the adventurers, the 2nd floor where equipment is sold is particularly enticing. Some were just thinking of getting advantage of the 50% discount, but the moment they experience how good the quality of the items are, they won't be able to let go.
Of course, 50% for all items was still a huge discount, and they would surely be losing an absurd amount of money.l. It was a problem though. After all, if there's anything Grey and Yuna have in abundance, it would be money.
Losing out on a few coins and crystals was nothing if it meant nothing it meant that they could hook a lot of customers. Money really does make the world run.
"Hmm... What's this... Instant foods...? Let's see...!! Wait! What the hell?!"
"Delicious food that can last several months?! Is that even possible?!"
"If Their Highnesses said so, then it must be true!"
"It says here that there will be a demonstration with free samples! We need to go!"
The secret weapon Grey thought of also caused a lot of noise in the Guild just as Velzier said. Everyone instantly went crazy the moment they read the description of the items and what dishes they have to offer. Everyone was ecstatic.
At first, Grey was just trying to target travelers, but after realizing that they would be a hit to busy people with lots of jobs as well, he immediately poured more resources into the project and made them with the intent to make them their bestsellers.
"Oh dear... Looks like you'll have a bunch of rowdy customers soon..." ［Tilda］
"Fufufu! The more, the merrier, as they say!" ［Yuna］
After posting the flier at the Guild and seeing the adventurers' reactions, Yuna then headed out of the Guild and went into all sorts of buildings and posted a lot more of the fliers, receiving the same amount of interest and reaction from the people.
Soon enough, the 9 o'clock bell finally rang resonantly all throughout the city, and Yuna was finally done with her fliers, and her hands were free as one can be. She met a familiar figure on the way home, a smile blooming on her face.
"Grey～! I'm done posting my fliers! How about you～?!" ［Yuna］
"I'm almost done as well. I just need to post one more." ［Grey］
"Ohh!! Then let's go together!" ［Yuna］
Of course, it was none other than her dearest beloved, Grey. The very moment she spotted him, she immediately ran up to him and walked by his side. She also wanted to hold his hand, but seeing that they're still in public... She decided to hold back a bit.
As for Grey, well... He already knows what kind of character his fiancée was. She may have gotten needier, clingier, and more spoiled with each passing day, but she's still the most adorable in his eyes. Seeing her trying to hold back was just so cute.
"How did your flier-posting go? Encountered any problem?" ［Grey］
"No, not at all! People were really happy and excited for the Grand Opening. I think we might need a lot more space, actually." ［Yuna］
"Oh? That successful? My fiancée must have done a really good job then." ［Grey］
"Of course! I made sure to post them in places where a lot of people can see. I'm sure many people have read it by now!" ［Yuna］
Much like an excited child going on about her day at school, Yuna soon told Grey about her little flier adventure and told him the reactions of the people with a bright smile blooming on her face, clearly excited and elated.
They continued to walk down the streets, and soon enough, Grey was finally able to post the last of the fliers. Just a couple moments after he did, many people quickly started to gather, everyone greatly curious about Grey and Yuna's not-so-little project.
The two of them still aren't sure how many people will show up to Esperanza's Grand Opening, but seeing such excited and interested expressions on their faces, they can only expect quite a lot. It was strangely heartwarming.
"Oh, right. Have you prepared the snacks for this afternoon?" ［Grey］
"Un! I made a lot, and also made sure to make a ton of the Little Princess' favorite pudding! I'm sure she'll like it!" ［Yuna］
"Haha. I'm sure she will... Should we also make sweets for the others?" ［Grey］
"Ah! I want to thank Guildmaster Velzier for his idea! We should also send him some handmade cookies! Ah! We can also add sample treats from the mall!" ［Yuna］
"That's a great idea. Let's do it then." ［Grey］
With advertising now over, it was finally time to extend their invitations. Grey and Yuna will be heading towards the Royal Capital, Moterno, Gilm, Lista, and a couple other places to invite a number of acquaintances for the Mall's Grand Opening.
It was only then that they once again realized how absurd the roster of their so-called "acquaintances" were. Over half of them were nobles, or had some sort of influence which could rival one. It was decided that they will be attending incognito.
After all, it would cause a lot of ruckus if the Royal Family suddenly appeared out of the blue. At the same time, they also want to show them the progress of their project. They want to show them the fruits of their hard work.
Grey and Yuna soon headed home, and made some quick snacks along with some refreshments. They don't know about the others, but they also want Iris and the Little Princess to have a taste of what they'll be selling. Time passed just like that.
"A Grand Opening? Already...?" ［Ernes］
With just quick travel using Gate, Grey and Yuna soon arrived at the Royal Castle, and as usual, the Royal Family soon found them. They didn't even announce their visit, yet somehow, the Royal Family always knew that they'll be visiting.
Now, everyone is having some tasty snacks and chilled refreshments in the Little Princess' room. There were parfaits, sorbets, pies, cakes, cookies, ice cream, and breads, all in variations they've never had before. Needless to say, they enjoyed it.
"A mall... How curious... I have never heard of anything like it..." ［Natasha］
"Is it not basically just a kind of market?" ［Galleus］
"Well, sort of, but not quite... You'll understand when you see it." ［Grey］
"Hmm... You sound quite confident. It must be really great, huh? Do you have any photographs we could take a look at?" ［Ernes］
"No can do, Your Majesty! That'll ruin the surprise!" ［Yuna］
Just a quick introduction of the mall later, every member of the Royal Family was easily hooked by the concept of a shopping mall. Well... All except one. The Little Princess was still too young to understand, and simply enjoyed her sweets. So cute.
The King already knew that Grey and Yuna were up to something when they said they had a solution to deal with the refugee problems, and has also been receiving timely reports from Cedric about the matter with the mall.
So far, from what he's gathered, the mall is a completely massive building complex with all sorts of shops, stalls, and services smartly laid out to make the customers engage with different activities. It was a curious and interesting concept.
Well, be that as it may, he still didn't think Grey and Yuna would finish everything in just a month. He heard of how big and complex of a structure it was, so he thought it'd take a few years at the very least. But, oh boy, he was wrong. He underestimated just how crazy Grey and Yuna are.
"Hahaha! Well, no matter! I am sure it will be a ton of fun! First, the sea outing, and now this, you sure are full of interesting ideas! Grey! Yuna!" ［Ernes］
"We are honored, Your Majesty." ［Grey］
"Hahaha! What is with that stiff tone? It is no use pretending to be so formal and proper. Do you think we just met today?" ［Ernes］
"Well, being a little respectful wouldn't hurt." ［Grey］
"So you were not respecting me before, huh... How typical..." ［Ernes］
The King said, but their was no direct response from Grey and Yuna. The two simply smiled and continued eating their snacks. They're the only ones who'd treat him so casually, even more than Vanessa. He even doubts if they even see him as a King.
Well, no matter. It's not like it's the first time anyway, and complaining won't change anything. Rather, it was quite refreshing that he can take a break from his stiff duties. Now, they even invited them to something interesting... There's just a little problem...
"But Dear, don't you still have work to do? I heard from Anderson that you still have not signed the papers the Minister of Finance sent you last week." ［Talia］
"That's... Well... I was busy with other things..." ［Ernes］
"What 'other things'? I know you have been slacking off again. I even saw you lazing around the kitchen the other day. Seriously, Dear..." ［Talia］
"Uh, well... There's a reason for that..." ［Ernes］
"... You really are hopeless..." ［Talia］
... It was that the King has yet to finish his work, a mountain of documents waiting for him in his office. He has been lazing around as usual, and causing all sorts of trouble and headache to the Prime Minister. How typical...
Well, he wasn't the only one. There was also the Crown Prince who was indirectly hit by his mother's words. While not as much, he has also been slacking off and leaving most his work to his assistants. Really... Like father, like son...
"Umm... Yuna... I heard you're already a Legendary Alchemist... Do you have any potions which could instantly finish work?" ［Ernes］
"Such a thing doesn't exist, Your Majesty. But I do have a solution." ［Yuna］
"Oh, really?! What is it?!" ［Ernes］
"Stop lazing around and just do you work. It's not that hard." ［Yuna］
Proudly declared Yuna with a bold and confident smile on her face. It was an answer not anyone present expected, but everyone unanimously agreed was right. The King never though there'd come a day where he'll be scolded by a teenager.
"Well, even if Your Majesty and Mister Galleus don't get work done, we can still take a look around the mall. We'll just have to leave them behind." ［Grey］
"Hey, Grey... Isn't that a little harsh...?" ［Galleus］
"Then, please work hard, and stop giving His Honor problems." ［Grey］
As for Grey, he didn't even filter what he said and scolded them straight to the point. After all, they're the type of stubborn and troublesome people whose lectures will just get in one ear and out to the other, as evidenced by all the trouble they've caused.
Moreover, the Little Princess was listening to the conversation. The last thing they wanted is for such an innocent angel to be corrupted by her father and grandfather's laziness and deviousness. Including Julius, the 3 of them were already enough.
"Oh, right! I forgot to mention! We'll be experiencing Esperanza incognito. I'll prepare some illusion magic, so if anyone has any requests on what they want to look like, you can think of it later. We'll try our best to fulfill it." ［Grey］
"Oh my! We can choose our looks? How exciting!" ［Natasha］
"Incognito... Fufufu! It's been a long time! I am looking forward to it!" ［Talia］
"Me as well! I will also be making a few requests, Elder Brother Grey, Elder Sister Yuna! I hope you indulge me." ［Iris］
And just right after scolding them, Grey quickly switched the topic to another matter, effectively ignoring anything and everything else that the King and Crown Prince had to say. There was no use dwelling in it any further.
It was just a random thought, but it seems the ladies were really looking forward to their incognito outing with the help of illusion magic. It has been quite some time since they could move around freely, so they were full of anticipation.
The Queen was especially excited. Ever since she became Queen, there were little to no chances that she could go out, so going to another city just to shop and have fun was a nice way to break her usual routine. She was excited, yet still elegant.
"Big Bro. Big Sis. Will play with Nalia?" ［Natalia］
"Un! We'll be having lots of fun! Make sure to look forward to it, okay?" ［Yuna］
"Um! Look forward! Nalia will forward!" ［Natalia］
"Fufufu! How cute～! Would you like more sweets, Little Princess?" ［Yuna］
"Um! More, please～! Ice cream!" ［Natalia］
She may not have an inkling what exactly was going on, but since it was Grey and Yuna suggesting it, the Little Princess already knew it would be a lot of fun. She already has a formula running inside her mind, that is... Grey and Yuna = fun...
Just like that, Grey and Yuna enjoyed some peaceful times with the Royal Family, and after their quick little break, the two then headed out to invite other people. It would be faster to invite them through calls, but visiting them was way more fun.
With nothing but excitement in their hearts, Grey and Yuna went around here and there to extend their invitations, hopping from mansion to mansion as if it wasn't anyone's business, just trying to enjoy their lovely day together.
The Aldridge mansion, the Landevar Mansion, the Helsberg Mansion, the Knights' barracks, the Royal Academy, the Adventurers' Guild, acquainted shops, and so on and so forth. There were a lot of places to visit with so little time to spare.
"A shopping mall?! I don't know what that is, but since Grey and Yuna invited me! Of course, we'll go! We'll take Anne out with us!" ［Vanessa］
"Ohh! Of course, I'll go! I won't miss out on those instant foods!" ［Velzier］
"Now that's a nice change of pace. I'll see if I can spare a day for that." ［Arnelius］
"My～! I can see my husband and children again. How wonderful!" ［Veronica］
"I'll go! I'll go! I'll make sure to go no matter what!" ［Eliza］
They reached out their invitations and got overwhelmingly positive responses from almost everybody. They didn't even have to explain what it was all about, quite a few immediately answering "yes" as soon as they were given the invitation.
It seems like everyone's been stuck in a monotonous routine, and wanted a nice change of pace. Not only will they be able to relax, they'll also see their loved ones again. Everyone was clearly ecstatic at the news.
Well, one was too ecstatic actually... It was the Guildmaster. The moment Grey and Yuna invited him, he immediately accepted with his eyes burning with spirit. Instant food is now a must for him, his heart roaring eagerly. However...
"We are afraid we have to decline the offer. The territory is currently undergoing a lot of changes, so we have to oversee it closely. We are really sorry." ［Abraham］
"I apologize, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna. I don't think we have the leeway for that right now. And there's a lot of people in cities. It may be overwhelming for us." ［Manelo］
"Sorry, Grey, Yuna... Someone has to stay behind and coordinate the knights. I hope you enjoy your outing, and... About Elder Sister, can you watch her for me?" ［Kurt］
"That may be a little difficult... But I'm sure Elaine can come." ［Gustav］
... Much like how many people accepted, there were also quite a few who couldn't join them because of urgent and important issues. It was a little disheartening, but there was nothing they could do about it. Not everyone is always free, after all.
Instead, what Grey and Yuna did was let them try some products they sell at the mall. There were just a couple samples, but it was more than enough to cheer everyone up as they should. They also had some good chats and laughs together.
Just like that, time passed by quickly and before anyone knew it, the sun had finally set over the horizon. Evening had fallen and night soon came. With the appearance of the stars, came a peaceful and relaxing night under the sky.
"Ahh～! So tiring～! I just wanna go to sleep..." ［Yuna］
And as usual, the first thing Yuna did as soon as she returned was to throw herself towards the couch and melt away like a marshmallow. The sofa was warm and cozy, Yuna soon rolling around like a cat, clearly exhausted after all they did.
"Why don't we sleep early tonight then? For dinner, let's just have some warm milk and cookies. We'll just even it out during breakfast." ［Grey］
"Un! Sounds like a great idea!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Then should we read a nice book together to fall asleep quicker?" ［Grey］
"No! I just want to cuddle tonight! Let's cuddle lots!" ［Yuna］
Normally, they would be cooking dinner by now, but since they already had a lot of snacks anyway, they decided to skip it and head to bed early instead. They still have a few long days ahead of them, so it was good to take a break every now and then.
The stars continued to twinkle in the night sky, the clouds drifting ever so slowly, and the chirping of birds and crickets all throughout the garden. Its bells rang for one more time, the city slowly drifting to sleep with each passing second.
The breeze was cold but all they could feel was warmth, relishing in the sweetness of warm milk and cookies, and the comfort of one another's hold. Their brilliant smiles and laughter was even warmer, drifting into dreamland soon after.
The moon is beautiful tonight as well,
CHAPTER 466 END