"I welcome everyone to the Arcade! I hope you enjoy your day!" ［Hasmian］
A loud greeting and a bright smile blooming on his face. An middle-aged man was full of glee as he opened the doors and let the customers in. Excitement soon filled the air, squeals and cheers echoing along the sound of excited footsteps.
Everyone looked gorgeous and beautiful, wearing simple yet fashionable clothes, all comfortable to move in and soft to the touch. Much like the host that welcomed them, they were all smiling happily with excitement and enthusiasm painted on their faces.
"Ooh～! So many new games! Let's have a blast, Owen!" ［Helen］
"Mom! Dad! Let's go over there!" ［Bella］
"Whew～! What a neat place. Everything looks fun as hell!" ［Kris］
"Kris, language. There are kids listening." ［Aria］
It has been a couple days since Grey and Yuna subjugated the Hunter Wolves and the Wyverns, and so far, things have been going smoothly. Everything has returned to normal and the progress in day to day operations has been going well.
Now, along with many invited guests, Grey and Yuna are running the first test run on the mall and making sure that the workers get used to dealing with people. There's still quite some time before the grand opening of the mall, but the earlier the better,
Of course, there are still some businesses that aren't fully operable yet, however, it is worth noting that checking for problems is just as important as the number of shops in the mall. The sooner they address the problems, the better.
"Can we really enjoy this luxury, Grey, Yuna?!" ［Larren］
"Fufufu! What are you talking about? You're the ones helping us put here. Just enjoy as much as you can and give us some feedback later." ［Yuna］
"Sure! Just leave it all to us! Right, Nonna?" ［Larren］
"Yes! W-We'll enjoy as much as we can and give you a lot of feedback!" ［Nonna］
"Fufufu! We're counting on you then!" ［Yuna］
While some of the guests were quite confused at first, as soon as Grey and Yuna gave them a brief explanation, they came to understand the situation better, all of them were eager to help and have some fun all the while.
The current ones in the mall were not just the ones Grey and Yuna invited, but just the first batch. Some people are still busy, but they could easily come along later when they have free time or whenever they want to relax
After all, Grey and Yuna were planning to hold test runs every single day for various days as they close in on the Grand Opening. It might take just a couple days to over a week depending on overall performance. It was all up to everyone's cooperation.
"Then, we're already at the Arcade... What does our birthday boy think?" ［Yuna］
"Hmm... I think it's a nice place..." ［Grey］
And as it just so happens, today is also Grey's 20th birthday, and also the 5th year he has been on Merusia. It was a day to be celebrated, Yuna urging him to have a mall date with her, and go around the place together for the whole day.
Grey really didn't need anything grand and wasteful for a birthday celebration, but with the young lady fired up as she is, there was only so much he could do. After all, when it is Yuna's birthday, he also does the same. He can't scold her.
"Ehh... Is that all...? I thought you would be more excited." ［Yuna］
"Well... I've been to a mall a lot of times, remember? If anything, I feel more satisfied seeing the place running. It was a lot of work." ［Grey］
"Un... You've been to malls a lot... Malls... Malls, huh... Mall dates... Grey's first mall date... That first date... Mmn..." ［Yuna］
Grey already moved on to another topic, but it seems like Yuna was still fixated on one topic, mumbling to herself again and again as she remembered Grey's words, there was a stern and serious expression on her face, clearly thinking deeply.
It seems that ever since the time Grey mentioned his first mall date, Yuna has been unusually fired up. She has spent several days thinking of how she could top his first experience and make it so that she's the only one Grey thinks about, no matter what.
As terrible as it was, Grey already said it was pointless, but Yuna still didn't give up on the topic. There was a little bit of jealousy, but it was more of a matter of pride and passion. As Grey's fiancée, she doesn't really want to lose to her, whoever she was.
『Grey! Prepare yourself! I'm gonna make this date the best birthday date and mall date ever! I'm going to make your heart race! Mark my words!』 ［Yuna］
『Yuna... You don't have go that far, you know?』 ［Grey］
『No! No! No way! That woman had your first date, and you didn't even have a good time! As your fiancée, I can't have that happen! Just you wait! I'll show you what a real date really is! After all, this is Grey's first mall date in this life!』 ［Yuna］
『Ah... Ah, yeah... Sure...』 ［Grey］
No, she isn't just enthusiastic, Yuna was completely determined, looking like a warrior heading to the battlefield. She may sound petty and unreasonable, but in the face of love, nothing really needs to make sense. Her eyes were aflame.
Be that as it may, she still has the grace and dignity of a lady. She didn't just yell out such a bold declaration out loud, but simply said it to Grey telepathically. It was just a tad bit unusual, but such strangeness and little shyness only makes her cuter.
Whilst Grey was chuckling to himself, another figure couldn't help but look at the two with interest. He may be an idiot most of the time, but he could clearly tell what the light burning inside their eyes meant. It reminds him of his own passion.
『Kris, whatever you're thinking, don't do it. Leave them alone.』 ［Aria］
『Hahaha. I was just a little curious. And even if I wanted to poke my nose at they're business, it's not like I can anyways.』 ［Kris］
『Hmm...? And why is that?』 ［Aria］
『Well, that's because we're also on a date of our own. I can't possibly leave my lovely and adorable wife by herself now, can I?』 ［Kris］
Grey and Yuna weren't just the only ones using telepathy either. As idiotic as he is, Kris is also completely honest with his feelings for his beloved wife. He was bold and confident, striking a critical hit towards Aria's heart.
『Hmph... So corny...』 ［Aria］
Or so she says, but her cheeks were blushing red and her ears were flapping with joy. She may not be as expressive as Yuna, but just a single look, and one could clearly tell just how happy she was, her heart racing mad.
All flirting aside, everyone then went on with their merry day, and played all sorts of games and made high scores amongst many of them. Or course, there are also some that just suck at the game, but they still enjoyed it nonetheless.
While many remained in the arcade, quite a number of people also spread throughout the mall. It was worth noting that the familiars are also in their Salferine forms, going around the place to see what the mall has to offer.
It was a shame that the spirits couldn't take Salferine forms as of yet, but they're also having their own share of fun as Sirius veiled them with illusion magic. Everyone was full of life and energy, happy as can be. As for Grey and Yuna...
CLINK CLINK CLACK CLINK CLANK CLANK CLACK
... Well, they are both completely focused in their heated match against one another. They are now playing air hockey, limiting their strengths to that of normal people, yet still able to make incredible plays that are out of the world.
"Here, Yuna! Try and see if you can catch this!" ［Grey］
"That's easyー Weeh?!" ［Yuna］
Yuna tried to catch the disc Grey shot, however, it easily slipped past her defense and went straight towards the goal. With that, Grey's score went up to 7, and the timer rang soon after. It was Grey's victory.
"Geez! This is unfair, Grey! This is my first time playing, so couldn't you go easy on me first? My body can't keep up with my reaction speed!" ［Yuna］
"No can do, My Dear. This is a battle, after all. I can't go easy." ［Grey］
"Uuu... You big meanie...! Fine! Again! Let's play another round! Just you wait, I'll make you swallow your words!" ［Yuna］
"Well... Let's see about that..." ［Grey］
Just a little bit of provocation, and Yuna was raring to go another round once more. Her spirit was burning like the feisty flames in the deepest parts of hell, roaring like a wild beast and ready to attain victory no matter how long it takes.
Grey and Yuna's air hockey game continued, and soon enough, Yuna tasted a bitter losing streak. Still, she did not give up, and continued on playing against Grey. Soon enough, she was finally able to score several points, barely winning against Grey.
After playing air hockey, Grey and Yuna then went around the arcade to play some more. They were mostly manual and mechanical games with simple scoring boards, but it was just as fun as the ones people had back on Earth.
Amongst the games they played, there was billiards, punching machines, foosball, basketball hoops, mini-soccer, token pushers, bowling, and so many more. It was a lot of fun, everyone having the best times of their lives.
"Ohh! Nice! Here, Aria, you can have this one too." ［Kris］
"Kris... Haven't we gotten enough already? I don't think this is fair..." ［Aria］
"What are you talking about, Aria? We haven't even gotten halfway there! Let's take all the prizes in this arcade!" ［Kris］
"Kris..." ［Aria］
Actually, a certain someone was having so much fun, he was going around the place, using his abilities as an S-Ranker to win all the prizes and take everything he could from the arcade, an idiotic and thoughtless smile on his face.
Aria could only smile wryly in concern and worry, not sure what to do. After all, Kris wasn't technically cheating, it's just that he was too much for the games to handle. In fact, there are already limiters installed, but he still couldn't be stopped.
"Y-Your Highnesses! Wh-What should we do?! At this rate, the gamesー No, the whole arcade would be in deep trouble!" ［Hasmian］
"Hmm... That's true... Well, it's the first round of testing anyway, so problems like this are bound to happen. Just let Mister Kris be for now." ［Grey］
"B-But what about the prizes? At this rateー" ［Hasmian］
"Don't worry. We'll pay for them all later." ［Grey］
"Un! What's important is that everyone's having a lot of fun!" ［Yuna］
Grey and Yuna were searching for an issue, and it seems like they found the first one already. And of course, the one causing trouble was none other than Kris, the kids admiring him from the sidelines as if he was some sort of superhero.
The games were already laced with arrays to prevent even Mid-Rankers from being able to cheat their way through, but it seems like such arrays are useless against the likes of High-Rankers who have neither restraint nor a conscience... namely, Kris...
Well, Grey's already a Tier-8 Enchanter. All that needs is a little tweaking and a lot of restraining runes, and things should be how it is. There's a matter of security too, so it was of the highest importance. It was more work for the two of them.
"Hmm... Should we join Mister Kris as well, Yuna?" ［Grey］
"You're joining him? Shouldn't we scold him?" ［Yuna］
"Well, normally, yes... But I'm on a date with my lovely fiancée right now. Wouldn't it be more fun to cause a little bit of trouble?" ［Grey］
"... Un! Let's do it! Let's cause some trouble!" ［Yuna］
One way or another, Grey and Yuna somehow decided to join in on the fun and cause a little bit of chaos. After all, it's supposed to be their special day. It would be terrible to just spend all day thinking about problems.
Of course, Grey isn't just proposing to have fun with Yuna. He also wants to make Kris suffer a little for causing them trouble. He will be challenging him to a couple battles, and take some prizes back. It was petty and devious.
"Sorry about this, Mister Hasmian. We will be causing a little bit of mischief for today. Hope that's alright with you." ［Grey］
"... Haah... Please suit yourselves, Your Highnesses. We're here to deliver fun, after all. A little bit of mischief and chaos is also welcome." ［Hasmian］
"Fufufu! Then we'll make sure to deliver!" ［Yuna］
There was nothing left to be said. With Grey and Yuna now set on causing quite a bit of trouble, they then went around the whole arcade and won some great prizes for themselves and the kids playing with them, cheers all over the place.
As soon as they got enough prizes, they then challenged Kris into a game where the winner can select a prize from the losers. With Kris' personality, there was no way he would refuse such a challenge. It was game on!
As for Aria, well... She wasn't really against the two challenging her husband. Rather, she even encouraged it and even challenged Kris herself with a whole week of house chores on the line. After all, she's the one who bickers the most with him.
As one would expect, with 3 people against him, Kris stood no chance at all. The former were chuckling and giggling to themselves, feeling quite triumphant after putting Kris through the wringer and making him rethink his actions a little bit.
"Fufufu! That was a lot of fun, Kris! Let's do it again!" ［Aria］
"... I see... I guess it's worth it then." ［Kris］
Not that it really mattered much in the end. The moment Aria beamed him a sweet and sincere smile, all traces of dismay and disappointment vanished from his heart. His beloved wife's happiness was the most important, after all.
After all the games, many people headed off to other directions and went to different spots in the mall. Some headed up to eat some great meals, some headed down to check on what they could purchase, and some simply wandered around aimlessly.
Grey and Yuna weren't too different either. Holding one another's hands and simply walking side by side, they went to all the different places they knew, and even went inside some secretive spots yet to be opened, causing some mischief yet again.
Well, it wasn't too long before they decided to head up the 4th floor, prompted by their hungry stomachs. They bought a little bit of snacks and some chilled refreshments as well, making sure they could carry their food around as they explored the mall.
"Mmn～! This avocado ice cream is great! We should pick more flavors later! Should we see what fruits would taste good as ice cream flavors?" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Then there would be too many flavors on the menu. Unless we're planning to switch around the menus, that's not good, you know?" ［Grey］
"Mmn... I guess you're right... Oh, there's some crumbs on your lips, Grey." ［Yuna］
"Hm? Which way?" ［Grey］
"Here, I'll get it for you." ［Yuna］
And like any other normal couple on a date, Grey and Yuna also had some sweet and flirty moments together. Grey tilted his head a little, and Yuna got the cream off his lips, standing on tiptoe and kissing Grey playfully.
It was a critical hit, Grey's heart racing quite a bit. Unfortunately for the young lady, Grey knew she was just trying to make him flustered. He was able to control himself, only letting out a light chuckle, finding her attempt quite adorable.
Well, it wasn't long before the two of them became embarrassed. It was only when they snapped back from their lovey-dovey world that they realized Bella has been watching them for quite some time now, eyes sparkling with curiosity.
"Waah～! Big Sis Yuna just kissed Big Bro Grey～!" ［Bella］
They don't usually do too intimate flirting when people are around, but from time to time, they get so lost in their own worlds, they totally forget about the others. Now is such a case, the two unable to face the embarrassment of being seen by a child.
It was so embarrassing, Yuna's brain practically short-circuited. Even when they're alone, it isn't common that Yuna acts so aggressively, but now, even a child has seen them. It was so embarrassing, she just wants to hide in a hole and bawl her eyes out.
"B... Bella... Where are your parents?" ［Grey］
"They're buying ice cream for me! They said I can go around the mall and see lots of fun things! Ah! But they said I have to come back before lunch!" ［Bella］
"I see... But isn't it dangerous that you're all alone?" ［Grey］
"It's okay! I'm already 8 years old so I'm a big girl now! Plus! This is a place Big Bro Grey and Big Sis Yuna made! It's safe～!" ［Bella］
Proudly declared the little miss as she stretched her hands out to the sky, all the while running around with her arms wide open, looking like a free bird. It seems like his distraction is working, Bella's mind slowly forgetting about what happenedー
"But! Big Bro Grey! What was that just now?! You just kissed Big Sis Yuna, didn't you? Do you always do that? Is it because you love Big Sis Yuna?" ［Bella］
... Or so Grey thought, however, he has completely forgotten how firmly children her age remembers things they are curious and interested about. Rather than forgetting, he was instead bombarded with a mountain of questions like an endless flood.
Grey could still remember how cute and innocent Bella was a year ago, but it seems like she has grown up quite a bit. She is now more cheerful, more energetic, and also more curious... Too curious, in fact...
"Umm... Bella, that's not something a kid should ask, you know? Where did you even learn these kinds of things? Is it from Mom and Dad?" ［Grey］
"No! It's not Mom and Dad! It's Big Sis Helen! She always tells me lots of stories and lets me borrow her books! They're so pretty!" ［Bella］
"H... Helen...?" ［Grey］
Bella proclaimed with a bright and cheerful smile, but Grey's face only turned pale. Of course, it would be Helen. She's the only demoness cruel enough to influence such innocent souls of her vile interests. First, Yuna, and now, it's Bella.
"She always tells me about a knight in shining armor! And the books also had pretty princesses, and dragons! Are you a knight too, Big Bro Grey?" ［Bella］
Thankfully, it seems like Helen has only shown her fairy tale stories involving a prince charming and a damsel in distress. It's a classic fairy tale parents often read to their children as bedtime stories, and something many people know.
Grey could finally heave a sigh of relief, thankful that Bella hasn't been corrupted yet. Still, there was a need to caution Helen of her devious and mischievous deeds, to make sure that she doesn't cross the line. It was time for another "heart-to-heart" talk.
"Mmn... I guess you could say that... I'm your Big Sis Yuna's knight. Of course, Yuna is already strong as she is... Still, she'll always be my princess." ［Grey］
"Waah～! Then can you be Bella's knight too?" ［Bella］
"Hahaha. That's still too early for you... Well, when the time comes, I'm sure you'll find the knight you're looking for. Only time will tell." ［Grey］
"Hm? What does that mean?" ［Bella］
"Hahaha. That means you still haven't grown big enough," ［Grey］
"Ehh～?! But Mom said I'm already a big girl..." ［Bella］
He was a little startled at first, but as soon as he got ahold of himself, Grey got the situation on the bag. He was able to diffuse the situation, all the while leading Bella by the nose. Such an innocent child still has so much to learn.
As for Yuna, well... It seems like she still has quite some time to go before she turns back to normal. She's still covering her face with her delicate hands, looking like she'll cry at any moment. For someone so bold before, she sure gets flustered easily.
Well, all she needed was a little bit of comfort from Grey and Bella and she finally calmed down. It was still a little embarrassing, but she can't just back down due to some unexpected situation. She did promise the best date for Grey, after all.
"Then, since we've all calmed down... Should we head up?" ［Grey］
"Up...? There's still another floor?" ［Bella］
"Well... Not really a floor, per se... I guess it's better to see it for yourself." ［Grey］
There was no time to waste. With excitement still adrift in the air, Grey, Yuna, and Bella all headed to the stairs and walked up towards the rooftop. It was Bella's first time so she didn't know what to expect, but one thing's for sure...
"Waah～! So beautiful! It's so pretty～!" ［Bella］
... She was up for a surprise. The moment she saw the end of the stairs, the gentle light of the blue sky caressed her adorable cheeks, and the fragrant scent of flowers tickled her nose, the sound of water droplets rippling ringing in her ears.
It wasn't exactly a big garden like the one in the Aldridge Mansion, but it was still pretty expansive, covering almost almost 12 thousand square meters of land and filled with all sorts of flowers and beautiful things,
The skypark wasn't all just flowers, bushes, and trees either. There were benches, firefly lanterns, decorative vines, small fountains, and all sorts of things. Of course, there was also playground equipment, catching Bella's eyes almost immediately.
"Do you want to play there?" ［Yuna］
"C-Can I?" ［Bella］
"Fufufu! Of course you can! Everyone can play!" ［Yuna］
She may try to act like she's already grown up, but in front of such interesting and adorable things, she couldn't help but let her childish side show. Her eyes were sparkling even brighter than jewels, excited as can be.
Well, she wasn't the only one showing her childish child, the silver-haired elf beside her was also the same, simply trying to control her excitement and act like an adult in front of a child. Both of them were so adorable, Grey could only chuckle.
"Then, should we play for a little while?" ［Grey］
"Un!" ［Yuna］ "Yeah!" ［Bella］
CHAPTER 464 END