In this world, there are adventurers, knights, mystical races, magic spells, and treasures. But this is not stories about them. This is just a story about a humble man working as a traveling merchant who dream to become rich to support his family. O...
"Did you enjoy the festival, Sofia?" Ruth asked, breaking the silence as they after Takahiko left the tavern.
"I did, Mother. It was truly an unforgettable night," Sofia replied with a hint of sadness in her voice.
"But why do you seem... sad?" inquired Madam, her gaze fixed on Sofia's face.
"I... I'm not sure. Maybe it's because the joyous time has come to an end," Sofia explained, struggling to find the right words.
While Ruth understood the reason behind her daughter's sadness, she chose to remain silent, allowing Sofia to navigate her own emotions.
"But last year, you didn't appear sad when the festival was over," Ruth pointed out, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "In fact, you returned home with such enthusiasm, you fell asleep without even changing out of your attire. I wonder what Takahiko would think if he saw you like that," she teased playfully.
"Oh, Mother, please don't embarrass me," Sofia protested, her cheeks turning rosy.
Sofia pondered in silence, reflecting on the events of the evening. It suddenly dawned on her that last year, Takahiko hadn't attended the festival, just like the years before. However, tonight had been exceptionally fun because of his presence. The only difference was him.
"Before we sleep, would you like to share what happened at the festival?" Ruth asked, her eyes twinkling with amusement. She couldn't resist teasing Sofia, finding her daughter adorable.
Sofia was actually tired, but the joy she felt seemed so overwhelming that she couldn't contain herself and wanted to tell everyone about it.
"Yes! You know, I introduced Guinevere and Isabelle to Takahiko, and they quickly became good friends!"
As if she had an extra reserve of energy in her small body, Sofia recounted the events of that night almost without stopping. Ruth reminded her not to forget to change into her sleeping attire as she sat at Sofia's bedside.
"I can't believe Guin had the audacity to ask Takahiko to be her boyfriend! It's so outrageous!" Sofia exclaimed.
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Ruth listened with interest to her daughter's enthusiastic chatter. Watching Sofia's various expressions and lively gestures made her realize that her daughter was starting to blossom into a young maiden.
"Even the usually calm Isabelle unashamedly asked Takahiko to pay for her food!"
It was indeed a delicate time, and Ruth felt grateful that Takahiko was a good man who cared for Sofia as if she were his own sister.
"It really bothered me how much Guin and Isabelle seemed to like Takahiko just because he bought them food and gifts!" Sofia expressed her frustration.
"But wouldn't you feel the same if Takahiko gave you presents?" Ruth chuckled, highlighting the inconsistency in Sofia's argument.
"Well, I mean... it's different. I mean, he shouldn't spoil them too much," Sofia stammered, trying to explain her point.
She vividly remembered her own experiences at Sofia's age – feeling confused and lost amidst the appearance of various emotions, just like any other teenage girl. It would be one way to foster her growth. Ruth resolved to only intervene when Sofia ventured onto a dangerous path.
Sofia continued to excitedly blabber about the festival events even after changing into her sleepwear and settling into her bed. Madam listened attentively, offering responses when necessary. However, the weariness began to show on Sofia's face. Her voice grew slower, and eventually, she succumbed to drowsiness.
Ruth gently rose from the bed, watching her daughter with satisfaction as she peacefully slept. She lovingly caressed Sofia's hair and offered a humble prayer to the gods, wishing for her daughter's everlasting happiness.
