Zin's group of three decided to remain behind to look after Sherryl. Angelica is with them too, seeing her was a big surprise. What was even more surprising was how well the two of us hit it off. I am not sure if this will lead into something more. I really do want Angelica to change the behavior she has toward women as a whole. She is part of the Great Houses like I am, so who knows what will happen. The only thing I didn't consider at the time was Angelica becoming a potential harem member...
As four our group, Aurelia's position was temporary. She bid us farewell, which made our group return to seven people. Kloe, Estelle, Joshua, Emma, Princess Alfin, Scherazard, and I. Kevin and Ries were nowhere to be found. Along the way in East Block, we spotted them at a random stall, waiting in line with other people. Seeing me crack a smile, I suddenly felt the warmth of an arm wrap around mine, only to see Princess Alfin look right at me.
"Teehee, I see someone is in a good mood. Was that girl in the finals someone you knew, Naoto?", Princess Alfin asked me.
"She is. You'll have a proper meeting with her sometime in the future, Alfin. She's in the middle of training under Zin, so it isn't time yet. I'm glad to see Sherryl's progressing well.", I said, explaining it to Princess Alfin.
"So her name is Sherryl. I'd love to meet, given the time.", Princess Alfin happily replied. "And her opponent was quite nimble too. She controlled several areas of the Arena, but couldn't break past Sherryl's defenses. That match was splendid."
"It sure was. Those talismans are quite popular in eastern Zemuria. Over here in the west, it's more about guns and swords. You don't get to see many martial artists roaming around here anymore. Such a difference in culture.", I said, nodding my head.
"And Mister Zin accepted Sherryl as a disciple?", Princess Alfin asked, wanting to confirm.
"That's the simple way of putting it. Stuff happened which led to that. Sherryl was with Naoto and I while we were exploring Calvard.", Emma happily answered.
"That did happen, didn't it? I'd love to hear the stories you all shared in your adventure in Calvard.", Princess Alfin responded.
"Haha, we'll see, given the time. We still have other places to explore.", I replied.
"Uh-huh, and I want to go on a shopping spree! It isn't often someone like me gets to visit another country. I want to buy some different assortment of clothes. This market is big. I'm sure there's a lot of stores to select from!", Princess Alfin said.
"Now that you brought that up, I don't mind purchasing an outfit or two myself.", Kloe said.
"Maybe I should get some new sneakers?", Estelle asked, and tilted her head. Hearing that question, Joshua did a swift chop on Estelle's head.
"You always think about buying new sneakers, Estelle. You have such a weird hobby. Why not continue using the ones you currently have?", Joshua asked.
"Now that's where you're wrong, Joshua. You can never have too many shoes!", Estelle said, acting full of pride again. That is right, Estelle has such weird hobbies compared to a normal girl.
Hearing that, we laughed again. I then looked at Estelle, Joshua, Emma, and Scherazard.
"It's not like I want you all to be left out either. This day is already planned by us. It's all on me. If you feel like wanting to buy something or a souvenir, don't hesitate to reach out.", I said to everyone.
"Is that really alright? We shouldn't really intrude on a member of royalty like this...", Joshua said, still hesitant on using my personal funds to buy some nice gifts for them.
"I mean, the prince is offering, Joshua. It would look equally as bad if we reject such a kind gesture, would it not? If we're heading that route, why don't we pick up a souvenir for dad?", Estelle suggested. Joshua just stared at her, acting like he wasn't expecting Estelle to say something right for once.
I still had well over twenty-million Mira at this point. I spent quite a bit of money on Nemeth Island, but there's still plenty left over. I still need to look into investment channels. Many countries have their own markets and such to do that. Maybe once Mayor Maybelle takes her spot in the Bose Market I'll look into that.
"You actually said something right for once...", Joshua said, feeling amazed.
"What's that supposed to mean!?", Estelle retorted, and puffed her cheeks out at Joshua.
"I wouldn't mind getting another pair of glasses...", Emma also uttered. It looks like everyone was starting to project their individual interests at me.
"Hehe, either way, Grancel Market is one of our destinations. Didn't you have an appointment to take care of, Naoto? Will it be fine if I take the girls to do some shopping and we can regroup later?", Kloe suggested.
"I do have that appointment set up, yeah. It's at the Orbal Factory though in the South Block. It's just a pickup, so I only need a few moments. We can go enjoy some dinner at a restaurant later for the real experience.", I replied.
"Oh? Did you place an order for some Quartz, or perhaps an Orbment device of sorts---?", Princess Alfin tried to ask with a curious look in her eyes. However, she couldn't finish her sentence before our group heard several sounds of feet shuffling. A few patrolling guards donned in their green uniform quickly scurried off to the South Block. We all saw worried looks in their eyes.
"Hurry it up! A suspicious individual has been spotted at the gate in the South Block. I hear he's holding up quite the line!", The Sergeant said. "You lot know the drill. We are to detain anyone looking to cause a ruckus during Her Majesty's birthday celebration!"
"Aren't the patrol guards in the South Block already keeping it under wraps? Why do we need to head over there?", Another guard asked, confused.
"Those couple of guys appear to not be enough to handle this fellow. Seems to be a persistent one too, saying they need to enter the capital at all cost. He's been cooperative so far, but the pressure the guy is releasing...", The Sergeant uttered, and paused for a moment. He shook that thought away. "Anyway, we'll have more patrol guards continue watching our posts, we are to provide backup pronto"
Our group was close by to hear this exchange between the patrol guards. We just blinked at each other.
"A suspicious-looking individual is trying to enter the South Block?", I uttered. Princess Alfin just watched on, confused.
"Is something wrong?", Princess Alfin asked, worried.
I ignored Princess Alfin, and looked at Kloe instead. We nodded our heads. Kloe knew what to do.
"I'll leave it to you, Kloe.", I said to Kloe.
"With pleasure.", Kloe said, and smiled back at us.
"Eh? Is Kloe going to do something?", Estelle asked, wondering what was going to happen.
"Let's just watch for now, Estelle.", Joshua said. We saw Kloe step forward, and separated from our group. She walked away, and approached the patrol guards who were trying to leave the East Block.
"Excuse me, but may I have a bit of your time? What is this about a suspicious individual?", Kloe asked the patrol guards. They didn't expect someone to approach them, so they couldn't help but turn around.
"Huh? I'm sorry but we really don't have time to deal with someone like you. More patrol guards are on their wait shortly. Move along now, and go enjoy the festivities, yeah?", The Sergeant asked.
"Sergeant, we really should go. We'll be late at this point.", The second guard said, reminding the Sergeant. It was then the third guard paused, who stayed quiet during this. He took this time to observe Kloe. It was then the guard's eyes turned wide. Guess he had a good pair on. It isn't frequent Kloe's identity can be spotted while she's like this. It's a disguise for a reason.
"Y-Y-Your Highness!? What in Aidios's name are you doing here in East Block!?", The guard exclaimed.
"Eh?", The Sergeant asked, only to look at Kloe. Kloe simply smiled at the guards. He felt a creeping feeling, causing his blood to run cold.
"Hehe, you all can be at ease. I'm not on official business right now. The Colonel has already been aware of our situation. I'm out enjoying the festivities with His Highness.", Kloe said. I took that as the signal to approach her.
"Yo. You all are hard at work. Thank you for keeping the peace while the citizens can enjoy their fun.", I said, and walked up to Kloe.
"Y-Your Highness the Crown Prince! We apologize if we are disturbing your enjoyment.", The Sergeant asked, causing the patrol guards to salute. Hearing that, I laughed.
"Haha, it is no problem. We are people, just like you, who are out to enjoy some fun. If anything I apologize for disturbing your guys' rounds. It sounds like there is a person of interest in the South Block? Would you mind taking us to him?", I decided to ask.
"Y-You don't need to apologize to us, Your Highness. We're just doing our jobs here to keep the peace.", The Sergeant quickly responded. Kloe looked at me with interest in her eyes.
"You want to meet this individual, Naoto?", Kloe asked.
"I do. You all have been keeping Grandmother's celebration in check, making it go off without a hitch. Thank you for the good work.", I said, smiling at the guards.
"Thank you for those kind words, Your Highness. It may be unsafe, but we are here who can escort you to this individual. Are you sure?", The Sergeant asked.
"I am.", I said, and nodded my head. I then turned around to look at everyone. "Sorry, but it looks like we'll have to delay our shopping for the time being. Maybe one or two hours at most. We still should have plenty of time later in the day. It's the afternoon right now."
"Oh you don't need to apologize for that, Naoto. We don't exactly have to stop our plans. Why don't you go on along? I'll take the girls and do some shopping. That might put you into a bit of a pickle though, Scherazard.", Kloe said, and scratched her cheek.
"True. The Colonel did state I am to escort His Highness around. I am not sure whether that includes Your Highness or not. Sorry, Princess.", Scherazard replied, also feeling guilty.
"Teehee, that just means we can go on a shopping spree unwarranted! What do you girls say?", Princess Alfin asked Kloe, Emma and Estelle. Sadly, the girls couldn't respond before we heard the sound of a lute being played. Trringg!
"Now that does sound like quite a pickle now, doesn't it. What ever shall you do to resolve this, my dear prince~?", A familiar sounding voice said, who calmly approached us from the north side of East Block. Lo and behold we saw a golden blonde-haired man arrive in our view. He was dressed in his musician's attire. Not the formal outfit. "Fret not my loves, for I have arrived at the opportune time to play the mediator!"
"...", I tried to say, but couldn't find the words.
"Can I smack this guy with my staff, Joshua?", Estelle retorted, feeling annoyed by this man.
"Honestly I was thinking the same thing. Is this what you meant by "Help may arrive later"?", Joshua also retorted, squinting his eyes at the man.
"Oh woe is me. I'm hurt to hear those words come out of your mouth.", The man said, and sighed. Hearing this, Princess Alfin giggled.
"Teehee. I do wonder who might you be, good sir?", Princess Alfin asked, deciding to play along. Hearing that, I clicked my tongue.
"Tch. Enough with that crap, Olivert. That is who you are.", I stated, causing Estelle to blink her eyes at the man.
"Wait, this guy is that weird prince?", Estelle questioned, still doubtful.
"Now I'm hurt. I think I need a good brother to come running into my embrace to soothe this wound~", The man said, and opened his arms, only to look in my direction again.
"Over my dead body.", I immediately retorted. It was then the Sergeant coughed at us.
"Cough, cough. Your Highness, we really should be heading to the South Block.", The Sergeant said, reminding us of the task at hand. I nodded my head at the patrol guards, and assured them.
"It's as the guards say, everyone. You did arrive at a good time though, Olivert. I'll leave the girls in your care. Kloe, feel free to take this.", I said, and rummaged through my pockets to activate Inventory. I brought out a slick dark gold card. My personal bank card.
"This...", Kloe asked, surprised to see me toss it her way. "Are you sure, Naoto?"
"I did say it's all on me today. I do not go back on my words.", I said, and nodded. To my surprise, I saw Joshua turn quiet for a moment.
"This feeling...", Joshua said, feeling weird all of a sudden. He then turned toward Estelle. "I'm sorry Estelle, but it looks like I'll need to go with Naoto on this one. I have a feeling I can't shrug off."
"Joshua?", Estelle responded, unsure what he was going on about, but she saw the seriousness in his eyes. It isn't often he's like this. "Well, alright.", Estelle continued, and nodded her head.
"Then let us be off, my kittens~ For the mall awaits us!", Prince Olivert exclaimed, and played a few notes on his lute again. The man was of course Prince Olivert, who was in his "Olivier" disguise. Estelle will likely forget about it but Scherazard and Joshua probably won't. This may ruin his "first appearance" later, but that's kind of thrown out the window. I'm not sure if it really matters in the long run. They'll likely be surprised to see Olivier jailed while Estelle's party attempts to seek out General Morgan during Sky's events, haha!
Either way, I saw our group split into half. Princess Alfin and the rest waved her hands to us, and wandered off into the market. Scherazard, Joshua and I were now left behind.
"Shall we be off then?", I asked the two.
"After you, Naoto.", Scherazard said, and smiled.
"Very well. Then lead the way.", I said to the patrol guards.
"At once, Your Highness!", The guards said.