Clap Clap Clap

A cacophony of applause echoed loudly throughout the whole theater as the actors bowed their heads. Everyone was happy, some having tears on the corner of their eyes. The play really deserved the title of being one of the kingdom's best.

With the end of the play, the people poured out of the theater one after another until the theater was like a deserted establishment. The only ones who remained were the staff who cleaned up after the customers and a group of five special guests sitting in the royal chambers.

"Did you enjoy the play, Princess Natalia?" ［Vanessa］

"Um! Enshoy!" ［Natalia］

But rather than the play, what everyone enjoyed the most was the little princess' reactions. They knew full well she understood close to nothing about what the play was about, but still enjoyed her reactions nonetheless. She was just too adorable.

Still, there was a certain problem that they had to think about. It was how they would be exiting the theater. With the warm reception from before, they were almost certain that a lot of people would be waiting for them outside. It was a headache.

"Haah... Yuna, I'll be leaving everything to you." ［Grey］

"Un! Leave it to me!" ［Yuna］

Thankfully, they have the girl with the best concealment ability in the whole world. With a quick explanation to the other three, everyone quickly understood the plan. Well, the little princess was just imitating the others and also nodded her head.

It also helped that Vanessa knew of Yuna's ability when they escaped from the raid. With it, they were able to quickly explain it to the Princess Royal. Iris, who was usually calm, was greatly amazed by Yuna's ability, her eyes sparkling.

"Then, Baron Landers, we'll be leaving now. We had a great time!" ［Vanessa］

"A-Ah, wait! Your High... ness... es...? Huh...?" ［Baron Landers］

Dumbfounded. The Baron was at a loss for words as he opened the room. Even though he just heard Vanessa's voice not long ago, there was no one to be seen around. He was scratching his head out of confusion.

Well, in reality, they really haven't gone too far away. Everyone was just near the entrance, only veiled in Yuna's "Nihility". Vanessa was having the most fun, giggling to herself as she enjoyed the Baron's confused reaction.

"Amazing... He really can't see us..." ［Iris］

"Amayshing!" ［Natalia］

The one most amazed was none other than Iris, the little princess imitating her like a little parrot. Such an amazed reaction remained on her face even after they exited the theater. Not a single person was able to notice them exiting even when there were hundreds of them.

Everyone was so focused on the exit that they didn't even notice the royal carriage's door opening. It was flawless. Everyone managed to get inside the carriage without any problem. Not even the coachman realized they had returned.

"To the Filastra mansion, please." ［Vanessa］

"Y-Yes!" ［Coachman］

The coachman was very startled after hearing Vanessa's voice out of the blue. A confused expression on his face, he whipped the horses and had the horses start moving. Every single person near the theater was puzzled as to how Vanessa and company got inside the carriage.

The little princess looking outside the window excitedly, the royal carriage moved steadily towards the Filastra mansion. Well, Iris was also the same. She was just better at hiding her expressions.

"We have arrived, Your Highnesses, Your Excellency." ［Coachman］

After a few minutes of traveling, they finally arrived at the Filastra mansion. While not as grand as the royal castle. it was still a respectable place as one would expect of a mansion from a Marquessal household.

The garden, the statues, the gates. Everything was more beautiful compared to any mansion Grey and Yuna have been before. Not only that, the household's servants were also very well-mannered, fulfilling their duties without needing to be reminded.

Vanessa on the lead, everyone was led towards the largest garden. There, two large winged tigers were resting peacefully, their ears twitching from time to time as soon as they heard the sounds of footsteps drawing closer to them.

Soon, the winged tigers raised their heads, their eyes looking towards the direction of the footsteps. They then stood up and ran towards them, their massive bodies making the ground tremble with each and every single step they took.

"Greetings, Mistress, what brings you here?" ［Ventus］

"Good morning, Mistress." ［Faeria］

The winged tigers were none other than the Vangirs Grey summoned for Vanessa and Ranzel to be their familiars. Vanessa's familiar was named Ventus, male, whilst Ranzel's was named Faeria, a female. A perfect pair.

Even though Farklae was Ranzel's familiar alone, Vanessa being Ranzel's wife, she still pays respect to her and calls her "Mistress". The same also went for Ventus when it came to Ranzel. Unfortunately, since they weren't summoned using multiple summoners, the two are unable to use telepathy.

Well, what was most surprising was the little princess. Despite seeing such massive and ferocious looking creatures, she wasn't even a little bit scared. Well, she has seen them before but still, it was also due to her innate fearlessness. She looked at them with curious eyes.

"Fufufu, it's good to see you too, Ven, Fae. I have a favor to ask the two of you. Will you care about listening?" ［Vanessa］

"If it's within my capabilities, I'll do so as the Mistress wishes." ［Ventus］

"I'll assist the Mistress if needed be." ［Faeria］

"Fufufu, thank you, Ven, Fae." ［Vanessa］

Everything settled, Vanessa quickly explained to the two what her plans were. It wasn't any secret so everyone listened in on her without much thought. The little princess was especially excited even though she only understood bits and pieces of what they were talking about.

The plan was simple. It was just to have everyone ride the familiars and fly in the air with the princesses. Of course, since people would panic at the sight of beasts flying in the air, they would be utilizing Yuna's "Nihility" to conceal everyone. A perfect plan.

"Ah, right, Grey, Yuna, can you call your familiars now? I think the princesses would also like to meet them." ［Vanessa］

"Un! Everyone, please come out!" ［Yuna］

At Yuna's request, her and Grey's shadows started to tremble, dark fragments easily splitting away from them. But rather than the large dragons from before, what appeared were six cute furballs. The familiars were still in their wolf pup forms.

"Oh, I didn't know Grey and Yuna had wolf familiars, too..." ［Vanessa］

"Ah, no, wait a second, I'll justー" ［Grey］

"Waah～! Puppiesh～!" ［Natalia］

Grey couldn't even finish his words, when the little princess suddenly rushed towards the familiars, hugging them tightly. Her eyes were sparkling brightly as she embraced the familiars all for herself. Only her face was showing as her whole body was covered with fluff.

Her aunt, Princess Iris, was also allured by the familiars' cuteness. She also wanted to indulge in their warmth and fluffiness, but she kept her dignity as the Princess Royal and managed to restrain herself. She was very cute trying to hold herself back.

Thankfully, despite being the most mischievous, Vega was also the most sensitive to other's emotions. She took it upon herself to head towards Iris and snuggle with her. The princess was able to play all the while saving her dignity.

"Grey, you were saying?" ［Vanessa］

"No, it was nothing... Can we just use your familiars for today, Big Sis Vanessa. Our familiars are quite busy, you see." ［Grey］

"Fufufu, sure, sure! You can rely on this Big Sis of yours!" ［Vanessa］

Vanessa was very easy. All Grey had to do was ask politely of her and she quickly agreed. She really loves it when someone relies on her and calls her "Big Sis". Well, even then, her real younger brother always has his head aching because of her.

It was a shame that they couldn't ride their familiars for the day, but with the two princesses cuddling with them happily, there wasn't much they could do with it. Well, there's always another time for such things.

Flap Flap Whoosh

Spreading their black wings freely, Ventus and Faeria started to fly with just a couple of flaps. Vanessa rode with Iris on Ventus' back whilst the little princess rode in front of Yuna who was also in front of Grey. She was still hugging the familiars tightly.

Only after a few seconds and the whole royal capital was in view. It looked much smaller from the sky, truly showcasing its beauty, basked by the golden sunlight. It was a work of art, a true masterpiece.

"Waah～! Biwds! Fowers! Twees!" ［Natalia］

The little princess turned her head left and right as she pointed towards things one after another, naming them excitedly. Grey and Yuna watched over her warmly as she enjoyed herself, her eyes still sparkling brightly like how a child would.

"Yaay～! Flying really is the best!" ［Vanessa］

Second to the little princess, the most excited was Vanessa. Despite being pregnant, she didn't hesitate doing such dangerous things just to feel a little bit of adrenaline rush, living her life to the fullest. She really was fearless.

The flight continued and everyone soared through the sky freely like a bird, flying above forest, meadows, rivers, mountains, and all sorts of things, feeling the gentle wind caressing their skin as they admired the breathtaking beauty of nature.

Only after an hour did they land for Ventus and Faeria to take a rest. They stopped by a large flower meadow, exploring the wide fields of greens, yellows, reds, and all sorts of colors. It was a paradise one could only describe as "heavenly".

"Aunshie! Fowers!" ［Natalia］

Running towards Iris with her little legs, the little princess happily offered a bunch of random flowers she picked by herself with a big smile on her face. It may not be the prettiest bouquet she had received but it was the most precious one.

"Thank you, Natalia." ［Iris］

"Um!" ［Natalia］

After giving a bunch of flowers to Iris, the little princess then headed back to the flower patch and grabbed a bunch more flowers, giving it to Yuna next. After Yuna, Vanessa, Grey, Ventus, and Faeria also received a bouquet from the little princess.

Not only that, she also started to pick a bunch of flowers to give to her parents and everyone else. She may be young but she was already thoughtful. She really really was the cutest and most lovable little princess there is.

Zzzzzz Zzzzzz Zzzzzz

Time passed and the sun has reached its zenith. It was now time for lunch, and just coincidentally, the little princess had also fallen asleep from moving too much. She was sleeping so soundly on Grey's large arms, patring her back like a little baby.

"Hmm... It seems like the little princess is really exhausted. Look at her sleeping so soundly..." ［Yuna］

"Fufufu, she's still two years old, after all. I wonder if my child would also be as cute as Princess Natalia..." ［Vanessa］

"Un! I'm sure they will!" ［Yuna］

"Fufufu, thank you, Yuna... Well, I'm still unsure whether they'll be a boy or a girl. All I know is that I'll love them no matter what." ［Vanessa］

Caressing her stomach gently, Vanessa felt the warmth of her stomach, thinking about her and Ranzel's future child. There are still many uncertainties in the future, but no matter what, she'll be sure to protect them as their mother.

It was that part of her that Grey and Yuna respected. Although she was very pushy and troublesome, she was also a very caring person to those precious to her. Yes, although she really was troublesome, a very huge pain at many times.

"Iris, would you like to sleep, too?" ［Grey］

"No, I'm fine, Elder Brother Grey. I can manage by myself." ［Iris］

"Are you sure? Kids your age should enjoy your afternoon naps, you know. You won't be growing much otherwise." ［Grey］

"Geez... Elder Brother Grey, I'm not a child anymore..." ［Iris］

"Alright, alright, let's leave it at that. Now, why don't we head back to the mansion. It's better for the Little Princess to sleep in a bed, after all." ［Grey］

Grey didn't pursue the topic any further and only gave the Princess Royal some light head pats. They then headed back to where Ventus and Faeria were and flew back to the mansion at Vanessa's command.

Shielding the little princess from the cold wind, Grey and Yuna covered her with a blanket throughout the whole flight, making sure she sleeps as comfortably as she could. It made them feel like parents for a little while. It was a little embarrassing.

The moment they arrived at the mansion, everyone headed to one of the guest bedrooms first to lay down the little princess on a soft bed. She was still sleeping soundly, undisturbed by the long travel and continuing her journey in dreamland.

"Fufufu, Princess Natalia really is sleeping soundly... Yuna, is it alright with you to look after the Princess for the time being?" ［Vanessa］

"It's fine with me, but... Are you going somewhere?" ［Yuna］

"Fufufu, we'll just be cooking lunch for all of us. Come one now, Grey, Princess Iris, let's head to the kitchen." ［Vanessa］

"Eh?" ［Grey］

It was another one of Vanessa's whims. Grey didn't even know about such a plan, but he was suddenly dragged towards the kitchen along with Iris. Neither of them could do anything against her sudden decisions.

The kitchen was just as impressive as the one in the royal castle, but despite how amazing it was, there wasn't a single chef to be seen. The reason was simple. It was because it wasn't the mansion's main kitchen, but rather, Vanessa's personal one.

Having married Ranzel, Vanessa not only mastered the art of making sweets but also started to practice making many meals as well. She wanted to be the perfect wife to Ranzel, and what better way was there to a man's heart than through their stomach? She was determined.

"Amazing... Is this really your personal kitchen, Big Sis Vanessa?" ［Grey］

"Fufufu, of course! Your Big Sis is amazing, aren't I?" ［Vanessa］

"Yeah..." ［Grey］

Grey's eyes lingered around the kitchen as he admired how amazing the place was. Tools, utensils, and all sorts of things were present here and there. The pantry was also full to the brim with a large variety of ingredients. The chef's blood in him was getting excited.

"Alright! Let's get cooking!" ［Vanessa］

Vanessa's enthusiasm was through the roof with her proud declaration, her eyes burning brightly with passion. But a complete opposite to her, Iris was very anxious, her hands fidgeting as she looked at Grey and Vanessa.

"Uh... Umm... I... I don't know how to cook..." ［Iris］

It was only to be expected. After all, Iris was a princess. Unlike commoners who needed to learn the skill to survive, all the food she had eaten since young were made by the royal chefs or bought from stores. She was inexperienced with cooking.

"Fufufu, it's alright. This Big Sis will be teaching you thoroughly. You just have to follow along, okay?" ［Vanessa］

"Don't worry, Iris. We'll just have to take it slowly." ［Grey］

"Th-Thank you! I'll be in your care!" ［Iris］

Thankfully, the ones with her were none other than Vanessa and Grey. One was recognized as one of the best bakers in the kingdom and the other was a figure whom many chefs of high-levels admired heavily. They were the best of the best.

Vanessa on the lead, the ingredients were quickly taken out. Flour, meat, vegetables, fruits, spices, and all sorts of things quickly filled one of the two kitchen tables. There wasn't anything lacking. Everything Grey ever needed was present.

"Right, Grey... I heard from His Majesty yesterday that you made something called, umm... Cream Puffs, was it...? I'm looking forward to it!" ［Vanessa］

It was an order. Vanessa may be smiling, but it was definitely an order for Grey to make some cream puffs. It wasn't the first time Grey had been asked off by Vanessa and it was still terrifying even after all this time. It was Vanessa, after all.

This time, Grey swore to himself that he'll get back at the King for his thoughtless actions this time. Whether it was denying them of sweets like this morning, straight up ignoring him, or something else. A lot of ideas were brewing up in Grey's mind.

Steam started to rise, the oil started boiling, and heat filled the kitchen. The sound of chops and splashes also filled the kitchen, creating a harmonious orchestra. Such a scene continued to unfold as Grey, Vanessa, and Iris cooked dish after dish.

"No, you're putting too much strength. Just stir gently, otherwise, you'll burn yourself when the stew splashes." ［Grey］

"Y-Yes!" ［Iris］

"Alright, that's perfect... Just keep on going." ［Grey］

Grey and Vanessa also took the chance to teach Iris a lot of things as they cooked a lot of dishes. For now, she was in charge of the pork stew. And later, she'll be making cream puffs and cupcakes with Grey for dessert.

Time passed once more and it was now early in the afternoon. A large variety of dishes were cooked and with the help of the servants, they were able to take it to the dining room without much difficulty.

Iris also learned a lot of things over the course of the cooking lesson. She enjoyed herself very much, satisfied that she was able to make things by herself. It was the first time she felt so accomplished. A love for cooking started to bloom in her heart.

"Oh?" ［Vanessa］

A surprised expression was plastered on Vanessa's face. After her, Grey and Iris also wore similar expressions. As soon as they arrived in the dining room, two familiar faces greeted them. They were none other than Yuna and the little princess.

The little princess had just woken up from her afternoon nap, and since Yuna knew the others were cooking up lunch for them, she took it upon herself to go there first. Now, the little princess was sitting on her lap, looking at the food with sparkly eyes.

"My, did Princess Natalia enjoy her nap?" ［Vanessa］

"Um! Enshoy ish!" ［Natalia］

Very full of energy, the little princess answered Vanessa's question with a bright smile, extending ear to ear, a smile very fitting with her rosy cheeks. She then quickly switched her attention back to the dining table before her, looking at it so excitedly.

"Fufufu, it seems like our little princess is already hungry. Then, let's not prolong this any further, shall we?" ［Vanessa］

Without any further ado, everyone then took their seats around the dining table. Grey sat beside Yuna and the little princess, Vanessa sat on the front of the table, whilst the Princess Royal sat opposite to Yuna's seat.

""""Thank you for the meal!!""""

"Sha-Shank you! Mil!" ［Natalia］

Incomplete and fumbling, such were the words of the little princess as she followed after everyone else. She was serious when saying it as well, making him look even more adorable as she tried her very best.

Warm smiles on their faces, everyone then started their lunch together. They all ate with such happy expressions, all the while minding their table manners. And since the little princess only has very little strength, Yuna was spoon feeding her, feeling like a mother bird feeding her little chick.

"Here, Princess, say ahh～!" ［Yuna］

"Ahh～!" ［Natalia］

The little princess was a very obedient girl. Yuna only needed to ask her once and she would do it. It wasn't that hard taking care of such an adorable and obedient child. Rather, it was very satisfying watching her grow day by day. The Crown Prince and Crown Princess were very lucky to have her as their daughter.

"Here, Iris, eat a little bit more." ［Grey］

"Elder Brother Grey, that's too much food..." ［Iris］

"No, you should at least eat this much. This is why you're so thin. It wouldn't hurt to gain a little bit of weight, you know?" ［Grey］

Well, if the little princess was treated like a baby, the Princess Royal was treated like a skinny younger sister, being prompted by his older brother, namely, Grey, to eat some more. The couple was taking good care of both princesses.

Meanwhile, Vanessa only watched over them with warm eyes, only pitching in from time to time, all the while eating her fill. It was to be expected of a pregnant woman, but she really ate a lot. Not as much as Grey and Yuna though.

It didn't take too long before all the dishes disappeared from everyone's sight. Even the desserts were wiped clean, only leaving the cream puffs and cupcakes Iris baked. They were for her family to taste, wanting to share her joy with them.

"Fuu～! That was a good meal, wasn't it?" ［Vanessa］

"Un! I also enjoyed it a lot!" ［Yuna］

"Um! Gud mil!" ［Natalia］

Such responses followed after everyone finished their meals. Everyone was now full and very satisfied as they rested themselves a little bit, not moving too much. It might cause indigestion and discomfort, after all.

Clang

Well, everyone stayed still, all except for Vanessa. She suddenly stood up, hitting the dining table with her open palms with a familiar smile on her face. She was wearing a smile which Grey and Yuna only knew would bring trouble. Another random idea was brewing in her mind.

"Okay, it's decided! Let's head to the royal castle's training ground! Let's educate the knights!" ［Vanessa］

And it really was a random idea, another one of Vanessa's random whims. Grey and Yuna thought they've already gotten used to her antics, but every single time, for some reason, she always surpasses their expectations.

What's worse was that the little princess started to imitate her strange antics. She was being a strange influence to her, surely making her mischievous if she is not to be stopped. Grey and Yuna could only heave a lengthy sigh in resignation as their heads started to ache.

CHAPTER 168 END