The whole family gathered in the living room, each person glancing around with nervous curiosity. The pressure was thick in the air, as we all wondered why we had been summoned and what news Orin had to share. Just then, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed through the hallway, and Orin burst into the room with barely contained excitement. "We're going on a trip!" he announced.

Following his words was a moment of silence as we all let out a breath of relief, glad it wasn't anything serious. Creon then leaned forward and asked. "Where are we going."

"To the city of Iris," he answered. Hearing his words I felt excited a sense of adventure washed over me. The city of Iris rests along the ocean. It is also located right beside the Galesen ranges so there's an adventurer's building for anyone who wishes to cross over to Canavar. "I happen to have some spare time and what better way to spend it than by traveling."

"I'm afraid Lena and I won't be able to join you," Brian said, as his eyes cast down he showed a guilty smile attempting to hide his regret. "Atticus is still too young and needs constant attention."

Dion, Leon's elder brother, stood silently, his expression as serious and unreadable as always. "I too cannot join you, Father," he said, a hint of tension in his voice. "I have some unfinished business to attend to."

"Anyone else?" Orin asked, his eyes scanning the room, searching for any more objections, but none came. "Great, for those of you that are going, get your things ready we are leaving tomorrow afternoon. And for the ones that are not. . . It's your loss. And don't be late or we're leaving you behind!" With that, he strode out of the room.

"Guys, we're going on a trip!" Nina exclaimed, bouncing up and down as her eyes sparkled with glee. "It's going to be so much fun to spend time with you all," she admitted. As her gaze rested on me, her expression softened. "Don't you think so, Arata?"

"Yeah!" I turn toward Nina, a small smile appearing on my lips. "I can't wait," I say, my voice expressing genuine excitement for the upcoming event.

As I looked at her, I couldn't help but notice how much she's changed throughout this past year. She along with Theodore celebrated their eleventh birthday recently, and perhaps that's what has caused this transformation in her. Maybe going past year ten made her feel superior in a way.

"Hehe," As I delivered my response, a light chuckle escaped her lips. With her hands firmly pressed together she averted her eyes. I noticed her cheeks flush bright red as her head swivel slightly from side to side. At that moment, all my previous impressions of her fell away. Forget what I said, maybe she hasn't matured at all. She always seems tense every time I'm around. I wonder why?

"I also can't wait," said Theodore with an eager smile. "I want to see the ocean. I've read that there are all kinds of giant monsters in deep waters."

I've always wondered as to what kind of monsters live on land. But on water? I can only imagine. The sea is gigantic, at least in my old world.

"AHH!" Nina's eyes closed shut, and she let out a shrill scream, startling me. Shifting my attention back to her I saw her jumping up and down, arms flailing wildly, with an excitement that seemed to shake the room.

"It's going to be so much fun!" she shouted, her voice echoing off the walls. I couldn't help but feel a bit taken aback by Nina's childlike behavior.

Yeah, she's definitely not matured at all. Suddenly, though, Nina seemed to sense my disapproval. Her giggles died down, and she looked at me with a sheepish expression. "What's wrong, Arata? Are you not excited?" she asked, her voice a bit quieter now.

"Of course I'm excited," I told her. "But it's not something to freak out about," I can't even remember the last time I got that excited about going on a trip.

"Yeah, you're right," Nina said, straightening herself before turning to face us once more. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to get my things ready," following her words, she slowly turned around. As she did, I noticed her swinging her arms back and forth in an over-exaggerated manner while she walked away.

"What was that?" I mumbled to myself, my eyes narrowing at her strange behavior.

Theodore who approached me from behind said, "I think she's trying to impersonate you," he concluded, having observed the events that had just occurred.

"I don't act like that," I spoke skeptically, my mind racing as I tried to remember instances where I had shown a side that resembled that of which Nina displayed.

Sure I'm way older than I look, but even then I still don't view myself as mature. But I'm not childish either.

"Yeah, you do," said Creon who was nearby. Joining in on our conversation. He crossed his arms and tilted his head slightly as he spoke. "I sometimes even wonder how you were raised to turn out the way you are now," he then turned his head to look at Leon, expecting an answer.

"He's been like that for as long as I can remember," replied Leon as if shaking off his words. Then, turning to me he said, "Maybe you don't realize it but you have become a sort of role model for the other kids," he pointed out. "Maybe that's why Nina is trying to be more like you."

"Really?" I said deep in thought. It is true that I'm the odd one out of the rest of the kids but I didn't know that they thought so highly of me. Except for Alexander. . . And Ada. . . She's so distant, I don't even know what she thinks of me. So Nina is trying to be more like me.

It's fine if she wants to change as long as she grows into her own person. But I wouldn't want her to copy my every action. She's an outgoing and social person, the total opposite of me. I don't think she should look at me as a person to imitate. I'll have to talk to her about it.

"Yo, Arata," Leon spoke, snapping me out of my thoughts while waving his hand in front of my face. "You're quiet. Why are you spacing out for?" he asked looking closely at me, curious as to what I was thinking.

Ignoring his question I shifted my attention elsewhere and said, "I'm gonna go get my things ready."

——-

Later at night, I was in my room getting ready for bed. My attention landed on Flare who followed my every movement with her eyes. "So. . ." I spoke out loud in an attempt to strike up a conversation. "You excited for this trip?" I asked.

It's been close to three years since I found Flare and was asked to take care of her. Throughout that time, her wolf form has gotten way bigger than before. I'm not sure how long she lived before I found her but I'm guessing she's around five years old.

"Yup," she responded while swinging her tail from side to side. "It's been boring here lately so I can't wait to get out of the house," with a wide yawn she curled herself up and closed her eyes. "Good night."

Reaching my hand out I gave her a gentle stroke of her fur, then told her, "Good night," laying back on my bed my gaze landed on my door. Is Mia not coming tonight? I wondered shifting my attention back to my ceiling. She's probably with Hanna. Deciding it wasn't all that big a deal I closed my eyes.

I lie in bed gazing up at the ceiling, my mind racing with thoughts. Minutes turned into hours and yet my body refused to succumb to sleep. I hate when this happens. How long have I been awake anyway? An hour? Two? A low grumble from my stomach roused me from my thoughts as I breathe in deeply, ready to leave this situation behind.

I guess I should go find something to eat because if I stayed there any longer I'd bore myself to death. The sound of fading footsteps outside my room catches my attention, urging me to investigate.

I leave my room quietly, eager to catch sight of who had been walking by. I follow discreetly behind the dark figure, curious to see where they lead. As we make our way through the dimly lit hallways, my thoughts are racing, wondering who this person could be. To my surprise, when we reach the main hall, I realize it is Nina, the one walking around. I shadow her as she turns another corner and ascends the stairs with me silently listening to each step she takes.

My curiosity prompted me on and I follow her from the shadows. She moved aimlessly around the house, ultimately leading me to the living room where she finally takes a seat on the couch. Her head leans back, staring vacantly at the ceiling, a look of deep contemplation etched upon her face.

Is she having trouble sleeping as well? I thought as I approached her quietly, deciding to reveal myself since she just seemed to be bored. "Can't sleep?" I asked, trying to keep my voice low.

"HAAH!!!" At my sudden appearance, she jumped back and let out a startled yell. Having recognized me immediately, her cheeks grew red from embarrassment. "Oh? A-Arata!? It's you!" she stuttered, averting her gaze.

"Forgive me, I didn't mean to scare you," I said with a small chuckle, entertained by her actions. In turn, she looked away and I wondered. . . Maybe I shouldn't have called out to her in the first place. Perhaps she wanted to be alone. "Is this not a good time? Sorry, I'll leave now," I said, preparing to turn away.

"Wait! No! Don't leave!" before I could go, she called out to me. Locking eyes for a second she again looked away. "Here," was the only thing she said as she patted the couch cushion next to her, inviting me to sit. She's so weird. I thought as a small smile formed on my face.

"So. . ." I spoke first, breaking the silence that hung between us. "What are you doing up this late?" I asked Nina, my eyes scanning the empty room. Despite the late hour, there was no movement or sound from the maids or butlers who usually kept the mansion running smoothly. It appeared that we were the only ones still awake, lost in the depths of the night.

Hearing my words, her posture stiffened as she averted her gaze once again. "This might sound a bit silly but. . ." she hesitated before continuing. "I can't seem to fall asleep when I think about the trip we're going on tomorrow."

"Oh? So what you're saying is. . ." I teased, smiling as I listened to her excitement about the upcoming trip. "That you're too excited about the trip that you can't sleep."

Everyone's had that feeling at least once. Being so eager the night before travel that you lose sleep, especially when traveling with people you enjoy being with.

"Hmph!" She huffed, crossing her arms over her chest, giving me a pout in response to my teasing.

"But I like that side of you," I said, trying to make her feel better. However, my words were clumsy, and poorly chosen that I immediately regretted saying them. That didn't come out the way I wanted it to.

"Huh?!?!" she let out in disbelief, her face turning completely red. "I-I. . ." Her voice trailed off, and she looked down at her hands, fiddling with her shirt.

"W-Wait!" I quickly interrupted her to prevent a misunderstanding. "W-What I meant to say was, that. . . You are a very outgoing and lively person a-and I. . . I like that about you," I stammered, my voice shaky as my fingers trembled. This is something I wanted to tell her because lately she's been imitating my behavior, but. . . Why do I feel so embarrassed? "S-So, you shouldn't change who you are. Just. . . Continue to be yourself. . . That is all."

As I waited for her response, my eyes were drawn to the way she fidgeted perpetually with her hands. Her gaze darted around the room, avoiding direct eye contact with me. I could feel the tension building inside me as the silence stretched on.

Finally, she spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. "I. . . Um. . . I'm trying my best," as I looked at her I noticed her curling the tips of her hair with her finger, still feeling self-conscious. "Thank you. . ." she continued, showing a small smile as her gaze locked onto mine. Another awkward moment of silence passed, and Nina tried to change the subject. "So. . . What are you doing up at this hour?" she asked, a hint of nervousness still in her voice.

As I looked at her, a sudden realization dawned on me. Am I also excited to spend time with everyone on this trip? "Maybe we're not so different, you and me," I said, my voice gentle as my lips curved up slightly. As she became aware of what I meant her expression mirrored my own. Within the silence that followed my stomach grumbled so loud that it echoed off the walls. I quickly placed my hand over my belly, trying to cover up the noise. "Or maybe I'm just hungry," I tried to play it off coolly, but I could feel my cheeks reddening from embarrassment.

Witnessing my actions, her expression quickly soured into a pout as she crossed her arms, huffing out a frustrated breath. "If you're so hungry I might as well cook you a full-blown meal," she spoke. Her voice was laced with sarcasm as she turned her head away sharply, shoulders tense with a hint of irritation.

"Hm?" I let out, deep in thought. Even though her words were sarcastic I took them seriously, deciding to take advantage of them. "You know. . ." I said tapping on my chin. "I think I'd like that."

My sincere answer seemed to startle her as her body stiffened in surprise, her cheeks growing slightly red. "Wait seriously!?" She asked in disbelief.

"Yup, seriously," I reassured, giving a confident nod. "Do you even know how to cook?" I asked her, my arms crossed over my chest as I leaned back in my seat. It would be a bummer if she said she didn't after I pressured her to. My mind raced with possibilities. What if she says that she does know how to cook but in reality, she doesn't? I can already imagine myself choking down on some inedible food, my stomach churning with every bite.

"Of course I know how to cook!" she exclaimed as if it were a thing everyone knew how to do. I couldn't help but notice her confidence in the matter. I, on the other hand, had no idea how to cook. "My mother taught me back when we lived in the village of Ruevil," she continued, a smile on her face as she reminisced about her past.

"That's great," I said, trying to hide my lack of culinary skills. "So? Will you do it?"

She paused and looked off to the side, as if deep in thought. Suddenly, she started shifting awkwardly from side to side, her cheeks turning bright red. "Fine. . . I guess I can cook you something," she said, sounding shy as she avoided eye contact with me. "W-What do you want me to make?"

"Hm," I mused, trying to make it sound as if I had some preference. "Nothing too fancy. . . Something simple. . . I'm not a picky eater," I added, trying to sound casual. "So why don't you surprise me with something?"

"Alright," she nodded, her determination renewed. "I'll go to the kitchen and see what there is that I can make," following her words we then made our way to the kitchen, once there she stopped just short before a sealed door.

"Will you accompany me through here?" she asked, her voice trembling a bit with nervousness as she looked back at me.

"Alright," I replied quietly, not knowing exactly what was going on or why she was so scared to go through by herself. Staying calm and collected I made a mental note that whatever laid ahead must be something truly frightening for her to be this freaked out.

As we walked past the door, the creaking of the hinges echoed in the enclosed space. The musty smell of the underground cellar filled our nostrils as we descended the stone steps. With each step we took, the temperature dropped noticeably, sending shivers down our spines. Every now and then I noticed Nina glancing over her shoulder constantly just to check if I was still there.

Finally, we reached the very bottom of the stairs. The air was now frigid, and we could see our breath condense with each exhale. Through the opening ahead, we could see a small room filled with shelves stacked with neatly arranged fruits and vegetables. The walls were lined with hooks holding cured meats. The room was cool and damp, the perfect environment for preserving food.

"Sheesh, it's cold in here," Nina shivered as she entered the room, quickly embracing herself for warmth. She took a deep breath and exhaled a puff of white steam into the air. "Well, better make this quick," she muttered through chattering teeth and began walking deeper into the room to grab the ingredients.

"So this is where they keep all the food, huh?" I said out loud more to myself as I looked around the room in fascination at the sigils running along the walls.

They looked like snowflakes etched into the stone, each unique yet intricately connected with the others to form larger patterns. I couldn't help but reach out to trace the lines with my fingers, feeling their cold smoothness against my skin.

As I studied the sigils, it occurred to me that they must be what produced the cold winds that preserved the food in this giant fridge. I wondered if I could recreate the symbols on another surface and pass mana through them to achieve the same effect. But then realized that such a task would be quite difficult, as there were many tiny details in the sigils that I would need to copy precisely.

"Man, this is eerie," I said out loud as I looked around, taking in the dimly lit space with its cold atmosphere. I could feel my body shiver as my attire wasn't suitable for this type of environment. "I can see why you didn't want to come down here by yourself," I noted, glancing over at my companion who was carrying a whole bunch of vegetables.

Looking back at me with a nervous smile, she nodded in agreement. "Yup," she replied, her voice sounding a little shaky due to the cold. "I've only been down here a few times, and I still find it scary."

"You got everything?" I asked, trying to distract her from her nerves. As I scanned the pile of vegetables she was carrying, I tried to make sense of everything that she had picked.

"Yeah, everything else should be up there," she said, her breath coming in long, shallow breaths as she struggled to adapt to the chilliness emanating from this room.

"Here, let me help," I said, reaching out to take some of the items from her. As I did, I couldn't help but notice the tension in her muscles and the way her hands shook slightly. We should really get out of here before we freeze to death.

By looking at what she got, I assumed she would make some kind of stew or soup. The selection of vegetables was a bit unusual, with lots of root vegetables and leafy greens.

Once we had gone back upstairs out of the cold wind, we found ourselves in the warm embrace of the kitchen. Pots sat atop unlit fireplaces, lining one wall of the room. Nina picked up a pot and exchanged it for a smaller one, which she filled with water. Meanwhile, I fetched some logs from a nearby closet and set them on fire with my magic beneath the pot.

As the water began to heat up, Nina diligently prepared different seasonings and chopped vegetables on a wooden board. She then tossed the vegetables into the pot with her bare hands as soon as the water reached the right temperature.

Glancing down at the pot, I noticed that potatoes were the most abundant ingredient. Nina soon added the seasonings and began stirring the contents. It wasn't long before the delicious aroma of the culinary creation began to invade my nostrils. It smells quite good. So, she wasn't lying after all, she does know how to cook.

When it was ready, she poured the entire contents into a carefully crafted wooden bowl. It seemed I was right. It was a soup, a potato soup to be more exact. It wasn't much, as she had only made enough for me. "There!" she said proudly. With a beaming smile on her face, she excitedly presented the bowl in front of me. "Eat up!"

The soup somewhat resembled a creamy white broth with tiny bits of potatoes floating on the surface. The aroma of steaming warm herbs and spices emanated from it. I hesitantly picked up the spoonful of soup and took the first bite.

The warmth spread through my entire body as the explosion of flavors danced around my taste buds. It was as if the soup had cast a spell on me. I couldn't resist scooping up another spoonful, savoring every bit of it.

For a brief moment, I paused in pleasure before I realized that Nina was still observing me, awaiting my reaction. As I turned to look at her I noticed her big eyes were fixed onto me.

"It's really good," I said, trying to contain my excitement. My stomach grumbled for more as I began to chow down on the rest of the soup. I couldn't help but smile, indulging in the delicious flavors that were making my taste buds go wild.

Nina's face lit up with relief, and her cheeks blushed slightly as she watched me eat. I couldn't help but feel grateful to her for making such a tasty meal just for me.

"What did you put on it? It's so different from any other food I've tasted before," I asked, trying to understand where the rich flavor had come from.

"Well, it's a recipe that my mom learned back in her hometown. According to her, the food here is too bland," she answered. "She taught me her way of cooking back when we lived in Ruevil. So I really wasn't sure if you'd enjoy the food."

I do remember hearing that Nina and Theodore's mother, Tina I believe her name was, is a foreigner from another land. I'm not sure where exactly. But that's the reason why her physical appearance is vastly different from anyone else that lives here in the capital. Her pink hair along with her green eyes are the most distinctive features that Nina inherited from her.

"Are you kidding?!" I couldn't help but exclaim. "This meal tastes better than any other I've ever had," I declared with a nod, savoring every bite.

The surprise and excitement shone through my words, and Nina, who had been fidgeting with her hands, looked up at me, her eyes wide. Her face lit up with a smile. It was at that moment that I realized how much she cared about what I thought of her cooking.

"Y-You really mean that?" she asked in a gentle voice, hope mingled with doubt as the glare of the moonlight served to illuminate the volume of her pink hair.

"Mm-hmm!" I nodded as I gulped down what was remaining of the soup. I might be over-exaggerating here but it is one of the best dishes I've had in a while.

". . . If you liked it that much. . . I can always. . . cook for you again," she said awkwardly, averting her gaze as her cheeks grew a slight shade of red.

"Well, if you don't mind. I'd like that." I told her to which she only smiled in response. Maybe I can get her mom to cook me something. Or even better, I could one day go to her homeland and eat a meal from there.

We then rinsed the dishes we used and put them back in their place. Afterward, I told her that we should head back to our rooms and get proper sleep. She agreed since she had now grown tired after making me a 'full-blown meal.'

"Thanks again, for the food," I told her, flashing a grateful smile as I stood on the other side of her door. "Sorry that I had you waste your time making it for me," I spoke, feeling awkward and unsure of myself.

"Don't worry about it, I had lots of fun tonight," Her words were warm and sincere. Within the short moment of silence, she looked up at me, showing one final smile, and said, "Good night, Arata."

"Good night," I replied with a wave of my hand. Without saying another word she took a step back into her room and closed the door. With that, I began to walk back to my room.