The kitchen buzzed with life. Steam curled up from large pots, spices filled the air, and the steady rhythm of chopping, stirring, and quiet chatter blended into a warm, busy harmony. Sunlight streamed through the high windows, catching on polished surfaces and drifting through the rising heat.
Keme stood at one of the central stoves, focused on the pot in front of her. She had grown into a young woman now—soft chestnut hair tied neatly into a bun, sleeves rolled up, a clean apron tied snugly at her waist. Her warm brown eyes stayed fixed on the pot as she stirred it with care.
Another maid walked up beside her, wiping her hands on her apron.
"Ms. Keme, what are you making?"
Keme looked up, her face brightening instantly.
"I'm cooking curry for Lord Azrean and Lady Sumi."
The pot gave off a rich, inviting aroma. Thick golden-brown sauce bubbled gently, coating tender chunks of meat, potatoes, and carrots. The scent of spices lingered in the air, warm and comforting.
The other maid leaned closer, taking a deep breath.
"That smells amazing."
Keme's cheeks flushed slightly, a small smile forming as she kept stirring.
"I'll make enough for everyone. Lord Azrean said we can all eat it."
The maid smiled back.
"Then I'll prepare the rest of the dishes."
Meanwhile, Azrean and Sumi walked side by side down the long hallway, their footsteps echoing softly against the polished floor.
Sumi stretched her arms a little as she walked.
"What should we do to pass the time?"
Azrean thought for a moment.
"We could go over the magic artifact again."
Sumi waved her hand without even looking at him.
"No. We're not going to find anything new. It's already confirmed that the magician with two magic aptitudes from Earth made it. It releases mana into the surroundings using a caster."
Azrean nodded slowly.
"Still, we might learn something more. There could be other items from Earth too."
Sumi reached over and lightly tapped his back.
"Yes, yes, Mr. Nerd. I'm not in the mood for that right now. And we're not even allowed into the artifact storeroom anymore, remember?"
Azrean scratched the back of his head with a small, awkward smile.
"Yeah... last time we went in, we accidentally activated the magic concentrator."
Sumi smirked, glancing at him.
"Then how about a sword duel?"
Azrean shook his head immediately.
"No chance. I'm not beating you in that."
He looked at her and added,
"Let's do a magic duel instead."
Sumi turned her head away.
"No. I'm saving that for later when everyone's watching. You should do the same."
She looked back at him, her expression more serious now.
"I still can't believe how good you've gotten at magic."
Azrean shrugged lightly.
"I just kept trying different things. You did the same."
Sumi shook her head.
"That's because you were teaching me. I wouldn't have managed it on my own."
Azrean raised both hands, waving them dismissively.
"You made something even I can't create, even with the same aptitude."
Sumi's lips curled into a proud smile.
"Too bad for you. And I'm definitely using it in the MvM."
Azrean met her gaze, a confident grin forming.
"I'm not going to lose."
They kept walking together, their steps falling into an easy rhythm as the hallway stretched ahead.
They stepped into the dining room and took their seats at the long oak table.
Morning light poured in through the tall windows, spreading softly across the cream-colored walls and pale blue curtains. The crystal chandelier above caught the sunlight and scattered faint reflections across the room. Fresh flowers rested in silver vases along the table, their scent light but pleasant. Everything was neatly arranged—fine porcelain plates, polished silver cutlery, and carefully folded napkins placed with quiet precision.
Near the door, the butler opened it slowly. Keme entered first, followed by several maids pushing a wide serving cart filled with steaming dishes. Warm aromas drifted into the room as they approached.
They bowed politely.
"Good morning, Lord Azrean. Good morning, Lady Sumi."
Keme stepped forward, her tone cheerful as she began serving.
"Today we've prepared a special curry with tender meat, potatoes, and carrots in a rich, spiced sauce. There's also fresh juice and lightly steamed vegetables on the side."
Sumi leaned forward slightly, her eyes lighting up.
"I'm so hungry!"
Azrean rested a hand on his stomach, speaking a bit more quietly.
"Please give me a smaller portion. My stomach isn't feeling great today."
Keme froze for a second, her eyes widening with concern.
"My lord, do you need a potion or medicine?"
Azrean shook his head with a faint smile.
"No, it's fine. It's nothing serious."
Keme hesitated, then nodded slowly.
"Alright... if you say so."
The maids began serving. Thick, fragrant curry filled their plates, followed by glasses of cool juice and neatly arranged vegetables.
Sumi stared at her plate, clearly pleased.
"It looks amazing like always. Thank you, everyone!"
She picked up her spoon, ready to eat—but just as she moved, Azrean raised his hand.
"Wait."
Everyone paused, confused. Azrean glanced at the clock on the wall, its hands resting on VII then looked back at them.
"Have you all eaten yet?"
Keme shook her head.
"Not yet, my lord. We were still preparing meals for the others."
Azrean leaned back slightly and spoke calmly.
"Then call everyone. Let's eat together."
For a moment, no one moved. Keme and the other maids exchanged surprised looks. Sumi gave a small, awkward glance to the side. Keme lowered her head with a quiet sigh.
"Yes... as you wish, my lord."
She turned and led the others out of the room. As they walked down the hallway, one of the younger maids leaned closer, whispering.
"Ms. Keme... why does Lord Azrean let us eat with him and Lady Sumi?"
Keme looked at them, her expression gentle.
"He's always been like this. It's not the first time. Back when we were teaching them housework, we used to eat together often. Even now he invites us sometimes."
The maids' faces brightened immediately.
"We're really going to eat with them? I'm so excited!"
Keme let out a small laugh.
"Just don't forget your table manners. Or you might get scolded."
"Yes, yes!"
Still smiling, Keme continued leading them toward the kitchen.