FIORA: DARKNESS BEFORE DAWN

VOL 2 - Chapter 17 - The Dinner

Deep within the ancient forest, the small cabin stood as a bastion of warmth and comfort, surrounded by the embrace of lush greenery. Inside, the flickering flames of the hearth chased away the shadows, lending a golden hue to the room as twilight approached.

Agnes, adorned in her trusty apron, was engrossed in her culinary endeavors, stirring a delectable stew that filled the air with a tantalizing aroma. Meanwhile, her brother Max was hunched over a creaky wooden table, completely absorbed in his drawing.

Unbeknownst to Max, Agnes's curiosity was piqued by the sound of his pencil scratching furiously against the paper. She decided to sneak a peek, her interest heightened by his intense focus. Creeping closer with the stealth of a seasoned adventurer, she leaned in, attempting to catch a glimpse of the elusive artwork.

The sight that greeted her was both surprising and hilarious. Max had attempted to capture Agnes's likeness in an anime or manga style, with exaggerated eyes, a dramatic expression, and an array of intricate details that transformed her into a formidable warrior princess.

Unable to suppress her laughter, Agnes burst into giggles, startling Max, who looked up in alarm. His cheeks flushed with embarrassment, he tried to shield the drawing from her view.

"Agnes!" he stammered, his voice cracking slightly. "I didn't know you were watching!"

She wiped a tear of mirth from her eye and grinned at him. "Max, this is amazing! I didn't know you were such a fan of anime and manga!"

Max hesitated, and then, with a sheepish smile, he admitted, "I've been practicing for a while. I thought it would be fun to draw you as a powerful warrior."

Agnes laughed again, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Well, you certainly succeeded! I look like I could take on an army of goblins singlehandedly!" She struck a dramatic pose, mimicking the fierce expression on the drawing, causing Max to chuckle as well.

Their laughter echoed through the cabin, filling the space with warmth and joy. In that moment, the siblings felt an overwhelming sense of camaraderie, strengthened by their shared humor and love. The weight of their father's absence seemed to lighten, if only for a brief moment, as they reveled in each other's company and the absurdity of Max's artistic endeavor.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of gold and crimson, Agnes called Max to join her at the rustic wooden table. A simple yet enticing meal awaited them, the candlelight casting a warm glow on their faces.

Max settled into his chair and together, they bowed their heads in reverence. Their whispered voices entwined, seeking the protection and guidance of their mother, Laussinna, and their loyal maid, Matterinna, asking for their watchful eyes over their father's journey and their blessing upon the meal before them.

"Laussinna, Mother of love and light," Max murmured, "we thank you for your eternal presence and ask that you watch over Father as he travels."

Agnes joined in, her voice soft and sincere, "Matterinna, our loyal friend, please grant us the strength to carry on and protect our family until we are reunited once more."

As they lifted their heads, a sense of serenity enveloped them, the prayers they had offered up weaving a tapestry of love and hope around their hearts.

The siblings exchanged warm smiles and began to enjoy the meal Agnes had prepared. The rich aroma of the stew filled their noses, while the warm, crusty bread provided a satisfying contrast of texture. Each bite seemed to fill not only their stomachs but also their souls.

As they savored their dinner, the siblings' conversation flowed effortlessly. Max, his eyes bright with emotion, spoke of their mother's love and the lessons she had taught them.