Crimson Phoenix Guardian- Aspiration to the Heavens: Becoming the Supreme Mage 4

Episode 116: Hard to Read People

*Orion*

I played my reed while sitting under a tree. Me and the others on Team Wanikiya were currently taking a break from festival stuff.

"Sitting by yourself, huh?" Ayawamat said as he held a brown bag in his right hand. "You were always a loner."

I lowered my reed and smiled. "Wanna join me?"

He turned away. "No. I was just wondering why you aren't eating with the others. Don't you like people?"

I nodded. "I do. But I also like my alone time too. Gives me time to practice my hobbies."

He sat down next to me and took out a sandwich and a bag of chips. "I see."

I blinked. Didn't he say no to my invitation just now?

"Is that all you're eating?" I asked.

"It's what we were given, so of course."

I took out some granola bars and an apple from my bag. "Here. You can have these."

"Why?"

"Because you're a human and humans need nutrients to survive."

He looked at the food, then me, then the food, and me again. "You aren't going to charge me later, are you?

I shook my head. "Nope. It's on me. Enjoy."

He hesitated for a moment before taking the snacks. "Thanks."

As he ate, I went back to my reed.

He turned to me as I played. "Your reed playing has gotten better since kindergarten."

I stopped and looked at him. "You think so?"

"I'm not just saying that because you gave me food, but yes, your reed playing is actually bearable."

I rolled my eyes. "Thanks for the compliment."

He laughed before taking a bite from his apple. "You're welcome."

I sighed. Why was he like this? One minute he acted like he didn't care about anything, then he showed glimpses of compassion and kindness. He sure was an enigma. His cousin was the same way. It made interacting with him as roommates a bit awkward last year. As I never knew when I would step on a landmine.

After he finished his snack, he got up to leave.

I finished my lunch as well and put away my reed inside the bag. Strapping my bag over my shoulder, I rose. My eyes widened as soon as I had stood up all the way. Ayawamat was coming back.

"Almost forgot, Wanikiya asked me to give you this," he said as he dug something out of his backpack. 

I laughed. Didn't think he would play the role of errand boy. Usually he would leave that to me. Although, guess I was the errand boy in this instance as well.

He handed me several stapled pages.

"Thank you," I said.

I scanned the paper and saw that it had information on the purchases Wanikiya had made for our little stall as well as original budget. It was remarkably through. Seemed the prince had ensured we hadn't gone over the budget. In fact, we had spent less than originally anticipated.

"Hey, boys. Fancy seeing you together. I'm not interrupting your little moment, am I?" Sowk asked, smiling as she walked over.

'Interrupting our little moment? Oh, does she mean us getting along?'

I smiled and shook my head. "Not really."

Ayawamat glared at me. "I don't think you get what she means."