"Missus Norma, I'll get another order of soulー No, two of them, actually!"

"I'd also love some skewers, please! Oh! And white bread too!"

"Excuse me, we're done eating. The bill, please."

The inn was abuzz with many characters, people dining in and heading out one after another, taking up the tables and chatting amongst one another as they waited for their order, happily indulging themselves in some peaceful leisure.

Before long, some dishes were served and some tables were filled. People ate their fill with smiles on their faces, ecstatically enjoying the tasty dishes, soon cooling themselves with sweet drinks chilled with ice.

It was yet another peaceful morning, the sky just barely rising over the horizon and the roosters crowing time and time again. It was a time of serenity and happiness, the peaceful times continuing to drift along as they enjoyed the lovely hours.

"Hey, don't you think the town's been too quiet recently? The knights and soldiers have been acting weird. Or rather, they've been very well-behaved."

"I heard so too. I thought Veltofar has been turbulent since the new Lord took over, but it seems very peaceful. Was it all just a rumor, after all?"

"Hm? Haven't you heard? That new Lord died a couple weeks ago, and it seems like there's still something going on with the succession. It might take some time before a new Lord is appointed... I even heard the Lord's son isn't going to take over."

"Hah, thank God he isn't. It'll be really a pain in the ass if he does. That bastard thinks too highly of himself despite looking like a rat."

"Hey, that's too harsh. Keep your voice down."

Of course, what is a meal without a little bit of gossip? It wasn't just the hungry folks and adventurers, but everyone else in town was talking about the sudden change, still unsure about what was happening in Veltofar.

It started just a couple weeks ago, when suddenly, everything started to quiet down. It was understandable at first when there were dragons looking over the town, but even when the dragons were gone, peace still remained.

There was also the sudden death of the Viscount which the doctors have said was because of a heart attack. It took some time before the news got out, but when it did, it got the whole town talking about it.

Many theories and controversies spread, but such was soon buried when the knights and soldiers suddenly changed their behaviors, acting more behaved. Crime rates also dwindled and harassment also vanished. It was the beginning of peaceful times.

"They say the one responsible for it were just two people. I don't exactly know the details, but one thing's for sure... They're S-rank adventurers."

"S-rank... That's crazy... That means they're crazy strong, right?"

"Ohh～! They must be here for the Labyrinth. I wonder where I can meet them."

"Well, too bad for you, they suddenly vanished one day and nothing's been heard of them. It was as if they were never here in the first place."

At the center of such controversies were all but two figures. They suddenly appeared out of nowhere, got into a fight with the Lord, taught the latter a lesson, and just a day after, they suddenly vanished into thin air, bubbles popping out of existence.

Only a few people saw their faces from afar, and after over three long weeks, many have already forgotten how exactly they looked. All they knew was that things started to change the moment they arrived.

"Here are your orders. Four sets of menu set A, correct?" ［Norma］

"That's right. Thanks for the meal, Owner."

As they engaged in their little talk, their extra orders finally came. They were still piping hot, steam still rising out of them and looking sparkly in their eyes. Just from the smell alone, their appetites were already aroused.

The one who brought it to them was none other than Norma, the owner of the "Sugar Pie". She was a sweet and caring, old lady, carrying the dishes to the tables, a little rabbit child assisting her in her endeavors. It was Liam.

"Ohh! This soup really gets me going! This is the best, Owner!"

"Right! I could eat it all day, Aunty! Maybe I'll have some more later."

"Fufufu! Hearing that makes me glad." ［Norma］

Though, as soon as they had a taste of the soup and white bread the inn had served, they suddenly forgot about what they were talking about for a quick minute, simply enjoying the tasty dishes and indulging in the harmony of the combinations.

It wasn't the first time they had it, but it was so delicious, they didn't get tired of it even if they wanted to. It was also the reason why the inn has been popular, every single one of their customers eating their meals with cheerful smiles on their faces.

"Oh, right! I just remembered! Owner, I heard those S-rankers stayed in this inn for some time. What are they like?"

"By S-rankers... You meanー" ［Norma］

"Ah! Big Brother and Big Sister! They're really nice! They give me candy and pat my head! They make pain go away! Big Sister and Big Brother are amazing!" ［Liam］

Norma couldn't even answer the question, when suddenly, the little rabbit intervened with bright sparkles gleaming from her eyes. He then approached the table with much excitement, quickly preaching about the two ever so eagerly.

He was only 5 years old, but his enthusiasm when praising the two matched that of a merchant who just discovered a new profitable business. He went on and on, saying all sorts of things, logical and nonsensical, as he continued his preaching.

"Oh, dear... There he goes again..." ［Shelma］

"He really adores Grey and Yuna, huh..." ［Nord］

It wasn't the first time he praised the two, always telling the people how awesome and amazing the two were whenever he heard them being talked about. He has become the two's little fanboy, the very first and most enthusiastic in Vartes.

The little rabbit was so adorable, the adventurers didn't have the heart to stop him. They simply let him preach what he wanted to say and they listened to him earnestly whilst eating their meals. His happiness and cheerfulness warms their hearts.

"Excuse me, Aunty Norma. Are these our orders?" ［Grey］

"Oh, Grey! You're here!" ［Norma］

Speaking of the heroes he adores so much, one of them was now in front of the counters, checking on the food tray before and eyeing them carefully. Norma soon gave him the confirmation and he took them away soon after.

He and Yuna had returned to the inn just yesterday at midnight and surprised Norma and everyone else a great deal. They suddenly disappeared after saying they have work, only to appear yet again without making any prior announcements.

Their tale have spread in town, however, thankfully, not many people know of who they really were. Thanks to that, even when they go out in the open, they don't get swarmed by a crowd of people. It has been warm and peaceful.

"Are you really not eating here? Liam would have loved to join you." ［Norma］

"That'll be great, but... Yuna doesn't exactly want to come down the room. It seems like she's still tired from work." ［Grey］

"Oh, dear... Are you sure she's okay? We can call a doctor if you want." ［Norma］

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

"Thank you for the concern, Aunty Norma. But she's really just tired. As soon as she tastes something sweet, she'll be back to her usual self." ［Grey］

"I see... That's a relief to hear..." ［Norma］

It has been about a week since the chaos ensued over the Royal Capital, and after executing the masterminds and punishing all the criminals, the next week has been spent cleaning up the trash all over the Kingdom.

And by trash, it meant the nobles, merchants, gentry, and influential people involved in all sorts of crimes, the Kingdom dealing with them one by one with the help of Grey and Yuna, easily sweeping them away and punishing them appropriately.

Of course, there were some which tried to rebel and retaliate, however, with such monstrous forces on their sides, the enemies couldn't really do anything but get themselves annihilated, vanishing in but a single strike.

The operations are still going, however, they are so minimal that there was no need for Grey and Yuna to help out anymore. Most of the problems have already been solved and most of the evildoers have already been punished.

"Oh, right! Speaking of sweets, I made a new sugar pie recipe while you two were away! Why don't you have one?" ［Norma］

"Hmm... Is it a combination of berries this time?" ［Grey］

"Fufufu! You really have a sharp eye, Grey. Make sure to have Yuna try it and also, don't forget to give me some feedback. We're planning to launch them sometime soon so it would be really helpful if you did." ［Norma］

"Alright. I'll make sure to do so, I'm sure Yuna will love this." ［Grey］

"Fufufu! That makes me happy then." ［Norma］

Well, it wasn't just cleaning up the trash, they also had to do a literal clean up in the capital and do some repairs on the houses. Grey already erected a barrier in some places, however, there were some which took quite a beating.

And so, like any good person would do, the two offered their help in rebuilding the streets and residential districts, using a bit of magic to whoosh everything back into peace. It wasn't perfect, but it was more than enough.

They didn't do it for free, of course. For their efforts in leading the construction, the Kingdom paid them a couple million kiels and a few million more for their previous efforts, amounting to over a billion kiels in total.

It was a huge amount equaling to almost half the annual revenue of the Royal Family and a couple present coming along with it. The two wanted to refuse and spend them to repair the Royal Capital, but the King didn't let them have the chance to refuse.

And so, just like that, they spent their days working their butts off for the betterment of the people, drinking mana potions one after another. They didn't want to admit it, but they have really become the embodiment of self-sacrifice and heroism.

"Speaking of which, are you really done with your work now?" ［Norma］

"Yeah, it took quite some time, but it's already done." ［Grey］

"I see... You suddenly disappeared, so we were really worried. I thought something happened to the two of you." ［Norma］

"Hahaha. We just did some odd jobs we had to do, and it was quite far away so it took quite some time." ［Grey］

Or so he says, but there was no way what they did could simply be called "odd jobs". Their efforts were something which very much changed the fate of the whole country, and saved the lives of thousands, if not millions, of people.

So much so that the two of them are receiving yet another "Medal of Honor" in an upcoming Awarding Ceremony. They didn't really want to, but as it was necessary to assure the citizens, they had no choice but to do so.

Thankfully, such a ceremony was still quite some time away, when the Kingdom had rebuilt itself and balance had been restored. It was scheduled over a month away, just right in time for Grey and Yuna to finish conquering the Labyrinth.

"Then, Auntie Norma, I'll be heading upstairs now. Please tell Missus Shelma and Mister Nord my thanks for the dishes." ［Grey］

"Fufufu! I'll be sure to do so. Those two will be delighted." ［Norma］

"Oh, and right. About Liam, we'd love to enjoy our afternoon snacks with him later on. It would be nice if he could join us for some time." ［Grey］

"Fufufu! You are spoiling him too much, I'm sure he'll be jumping up and down from joy. Thank you very much, Grey." ［Norma］

"Anytime." ［Grey］

Grey didn't spend much time downstairs and soon headed to their room as soon as he got their orders. There was silence in the air, a couple of creaks echoing as the doors opened and closed from time to time.

It wasn't long before Grey arrived at their room, greeted by a serene scenery. The simple furniture, a huge lump of fabric on the bed. the peaceful scenery outside the window, and the cheerful chattering of the children as they played outside.

A smile blooming on his face, Grey soon took out a dining table and after it, he took out the dishes they ordered, placing them atop of the dining table until it was full of colors and flavor, wonderful dishes making his stomach grumble.

"Ohh～. It's been quite some time since we had these." ［Grey］

As for Yuna, she was nowhere to be seenー or at least, so it would seem at first. But in reality, she was present, the same lump of fabric on the bed from before. She has become a marshmallow, not wanting to get out after an exhausting series of events.

"Yuna, breakfast's ready. You can come out now," ［Grey］

Grey called out, and suddenly, the marshmallow grew a head. Yuna's adorable face suddenly popped out of the pile of fabric, her eyes staring at the wonderful dishes served before her, looking at them so intently but not moving.

"Come on, now. I know you're tired, but you need to eat breakfast." ［Grey］

"I don't wanna... I just want to become a marshmallow and roll around in bed all day... Join me, Grey... Let's become marshmallows together..." ［Yuna］

"It's rare that you're avoiding a meal... Are you gaining weight again?" ［Grey］

"W-What?! H-Hey! I'm not fat! Look! I'm not gaining weight, okay?!" ［Yuna］

Well, all it took was a little provocation and the young lady immediately got out of her soft and fluffy shell, then boasting her slim and curvaceous figure for Grey to see. No matter what world you are in, such a topic was taboo for all women.

However, because of that very reason. Grey managed to lure Yuna out of her little sanctuary and got a grip of her. Yuna realized it soon enough, however, it was already far too late. Grey already got ahold of her hand.

"You... You tricked me..." ［Yuna］

"And whose fault is it for getting tricked? You're too easy, My Dear." ［Grey］

"Uuu... You meanie... I hate you..." ［Yuna］

"Yes, yes, I'm a mean bully. Now, let's eat breakfast together, shall we? We'll become marshmallows later. I'll make sure to spoil you a lot." ［Grey］

The young lady couldn't escape anymore. With Grey holding her hand, she soon took her seat and got ahold of her spoon and fork. It felt like he was a father guiding her child to the dining table once again, Yuna now in her spoiled and childish self.

However, all it took was a single bite and Yuna's appetite quickly soared by leaps and bounds, the young lady happily enjoying the meal and wolfing down every dish with much eagerness, chomping them down one after another.

Yuna was especially fond of the sugar pie Norma made. She hasn't been able to eat as much sweets as of late, but thanks to it, her sugar meter was quickly filled up. Her energy had come back to her, stars sparkling in her eyes.

"Yuna, slow down. The food's not running away, you know?" ［Grey］

"Ah, Grey! This is great! Have a taste too! Ahh～!" ［Yuna］

"Hey, are you even listening to me?" ［Grey］

Of course, what meal would be complete with a little bit of flirtingー no, not just a little bit of flirting, but a whole lot of flirting. They fed each other, wiped away the grains or rice in their lips, teased one another, and exchanged some sweet and sappy lines.

The two of them had been so busy over the past couple weeks, they practically had no time to let their romance flourish and grow. Now that they finally have time, they made sure to savor every moment, the atmosphere pink as can be.

Before long, the two finally finished their breakfast and Grey returned the dirty dishes to the counter. He soon headed back up and to no surprise, her fiancée had turned herself into a marshmallow once again.

"Yuna... We just ate, you know... You shouldn't lie down so quickly." ［Grey］

"It's fine～! We're transcendents anyway. I don't think we'll get indigestion from something like this. Let's just be lazy～!" ［Yuna］

"If you continue such a train of thought, you'll really become a marshmallow. Look, your cheeks are already looking more plump than usual." ［Grey］

"Hmph! You meanie! I won't fall for such tricks again!" ［Yuna］

Grey applied the same tactic, but it seems like the young lady had already learned her lesson. Rather than standing up suddenly and responding to Grey's provocation, she simply clenched the blanket tighter and rolled around the bed.

She was puffing her cheeks ever so adorably as she pouted, striking Grey's heart where it hurts. Grey may be able to beat her when it comes to teasing, but Yuna's subconscious strikes were something he couldn't top.

"And even if I really become a marshmallow, it's fine! After all, I'm sure Grey will still take good care of me!" ［Yuna］

"How are you so sure? I might just leave you, you know?" ［Grey］

"Hmph! As if you can! Grey loves me too much, and the same goes for me too! I love you very, very much! I love you the most in the whole world!" ［Yuna］

The young lady dodged Grey's teasing, and what followed after was an unexpected counterattack. It was so sudden, Grey couldn't even brace himself, his heart quickly racing from her words and her face painted a slightly red blush.

It has been over a year and a half since they started dating, and yet Yuna always manages to catch Grey by surprise. She always deals a critical blow, making the latter flustered, albeit slightly, his lips quickly breaking into a subtle smile.

"So? How was it? Did I make your heart race? Did I?! Did I?!" ［Yuna］

"You... You've been getting better and better everyday. If this continues, I might just die of a heart attack, you know? That was too effective." ［Grey］

"Fufufu! I learned from the very best, after all!" ［Yuna］

There was laughter and there were smiles. Grey soon sat down on the bed and gave his lovely fiancée a little peck on the forehead. It has been a while since he's done so, so it was much more thrilling than it usually is.

Just like that, Grey and Yuna spent their sweet time together as joyously as they could, rolling and lazing around the bed as they chatted about all sorts of things and read a couple books from a variety of genres,

There was action, adventurer, romance, horror, mystery, and many more. They were some of the books they got as a present from the King. They were full of all sorts of stories one would greatly enjoy, especially with someone special by their side.

It was all fun and games, when they came across a mystery novel where a certain knight investigated crimes and saved victims one after another. It wasn't really that special, however, a certain question was raised in Yuna's mind because of it.

"Hey, Grey... This may be a bit sudden, but what do you think will happen to them?... The victims, I mean..." ［Yuna］

She wasn't talking about the book, rather, she was talking about the events which just transpired recently. They may be able to solve most of the problems with time and money, however, the victims are a completely different case.

They weren't just injured and wounded physically, they also suffered mentally and psychologically. Some of them also lost their loved ones, their homes, their dignity, and their pride. There were all sorts of cases, each as difficult as the other.

"That... I'm not sure, but I heard His Majesty is starting a program for rehabilitation and the Kingdom will also give them compensation." ［Grey］

"That's all?" ［Yuna］

"Not really,.. There were talks about providing relief, new jobs and opportunities, counseling, therapy, relocation, and a couple more things. I don't really know the details, but I'm sure they're working hard on it." ［Grey］

"I see... But that still doesn't solve the problem, right?" ［Yuna］

All of Grey's words were true and the Kingdom really is making an effort. With time and passion, their wounds would surely heal and they would be able to live a better life in the Kingdom, maybe wearing bright smiles on their faces.

However, for those who cannot afford to live in the Kingdom anymore, those who have suffered too much and those who can only remember nightmares every time they think of the Kingdom, it was an entirely different problem.

Grey had proposed to have some sort of face-to-face discussion with Alfrione to give shelter to the unfortunate victims, and also to share efforts and information with one another to prevent such things from happening again.

He was willing to provide the service of his "Gate" in order for such a thing to happen, however, everything still depends on the two Kingdoms' decision and the victims' willingness. All they could do was wait for the good news.

"Why are you making such a sad face? It's not your fault, you know?" ［Grey］

"I know... It's just... It feels depressing when you think about it." ［Yuna］

"We already did everything we can. All that's left for us is to support them to get back up on their feet. It might take some time, but I'm sure it'll be alright." ［Grey］

"You're right... Maybe I'm just reading too much into it..." ［Yuna］

Or so she says, but there was still a tinge of sadness in her eyes. After all, she was also a victim of a criminal organization's evil schemes, so she could feel some sort of affinity with them, feeling both pity and sympathy.

Grey didn't say a single word anymore. Seeing such a crestfallen expression of his beloved's face, he quickly heaved a silent sigh and took out a couple things from his Inventory, soon throwing them softly towards Yuna, utterly confusing the young lady.

"E-Ehh?! A-A dress...?! Why all of a sudden...?" ［Yuna］

"Well, I did promise you that I'll take you out on a date and spoil you rotten when we're finished with everything, didn't I? I'm just keeping my promise." ［Grey］

"E-Eh?! A date?! So suddenly?!" ［Yuna］

"Hm? You don't want to?" ［Grey］

"N-No, that's not it! It's not that I don't want to! I-It's just it's all too sudden! Y-You should have told me beforehand! Geez! Grey! You dummy!" ［Yuna］

She was stuttering and fumbling as she gave her answer, eyes swirling in confusion as she tried to keep her thoughts straight. It was just all too sudden, the young lady now forgetting all her worries as she struggled to keep her thoughts in check.

After all, Grey wasn't thinking of doing it so soon either. But seeing such a dejected expression on the eyes of his beloved, how could he hold himself back? She may be the most beautiful in his eyes, but smiling still suits her the best.

There was no reason to hold back. As he saw how flustered his beloved was, Grey quickly took the chance and leaned in close to her. He pressed his lips softly to her cheeks, kissing her gently. A sweet and teasing smile bloomed on his face.

"Let's enjoy our date, alright?" ［Grey］

Said Grey, but no answer rang in the air. The young lady was taken by surprise yet again, her face now red as can be as she caressed the cheek Grey kissed. She was burning all the way to the tip of her pointy ears, flustered as can be.

"Hahaha. You really are cute, Yuna." ［Grey］

"Uuu... Shut up... Dummy..." ［Yuna］

CHAPTER 432 END