The Merchant and Tavern Master

Future Course

After that elegant evening feast, Sofia's demeanor underwent a noticeable change. Her disposition towards me became increasingly affectionate, and a genuine happiness radiated from her whenever we found ourselves in each other's company, often during the twilight hours at the tavern. It was as if she had found a comfortable spot by my side, much like a contented cat. However, during the daylight hours when my immediate tasks were less demanding, I dedicated my time to guiding Amanda in her pursuit of knowledge, focusing on reading and arithmetic. Amanda had taken up residence with Isabelle's family, and the Magnus couple had warmly embraced her as if she were their own daughter. Astonishingly, Amanda's progress was fast; she could now inscribe her own name, craft simple sentences, and perform rudimentary calculations. Her commitment to becoming my apprentice was unwavering, and it inspired me to wholeheartedly invest in her education.

Isabelle also discussed her plan for educating the children we had left in the safe lodgings of Harbour City, following Amanda's example. Evidently, she had already broached this matter with her parents, who granted their approval for her endeavor. Isabelle had managed to secure some funding through the sale of her personal belongings and was currently in the process of outlining the next steps. I readily agreed to assist her, joined by Sofia and Guin, offering our support in any way possible. Consequently, it was decided that on my upcoming journey, Isabelle and Amanda would accompany me once more, this time to Harbour City, where we would reunite with the children left behind.

"That's a good start, getting a place to sleep and fixed meals during their stay, I would say, it's halfway done, Isabelle. And what activities do you have in mind? You wished for them not just having fun; we want to impart valuable skills to them, right?" I asked her after hearing that she finished the initial basic preparation.

"I was thinking of organizing workshops and games. Simple things like teaching them how to introduce themselves, how to count coins, and maybe even a bit of reading. Thankfully Amanda's here, so she can be the example for them to aspire to," Isabelle confidently petted Amanda who sat beside her still polishing her writing skill. Her letter seemed a bit messy, but you can see the hard work and progress from her messy scripts.

"Those are excellent ideas. By letting them practice their introduction, we can bring them to visit some workshops in Goldkorb. Hopefully it can sparks some interest with them."

While our conversation was getting lively with future prospects, I felt cold from the back. I didn't have to guess who was the source of that eerie air.

"Hey, Isabelle, why do you merrily talk about your future plan with my future husband?" her dissatisfaction when finding me sitting on the table, not on the usual barstool in her tavern was evident. She was supposed still on her kitchen duty, and only came to deliver my ordered stew and drinks. But after she saw me coming to the tavern with Isabelle and Amanda, she seemed reluctant to leave us.

"Oh, please don't misunderstand, Sofia. I merely consulted Takahiko about my plan, since he promised to help me. Of course I will ask your help and Guin's help when the time comes, alright?" She answered her in a smile and seemingly without any hidden motif.

"...," Sofia remained unsatisfied with my explanation. I couldn't blame her; as her fiancé, it was understandable that she would feel uneasy about me spending so much time with another girl. Despite the fact that Isabelle was Sofia's friend, I had to admit that my closeness with Isabelle had grown in recent times. It seemed that Isabelle had taken a cue from Sofia and began to take a certain physical distance between us whenever we conversed. This was partly due to Amanda, who always insisted on my presence whenever we stayed at Isabelle's inn. I want to emphasize that our interactions remained entirely appropriate.

"It's alright, Sofia. I will tell you what we've discussed when you're done with your duty, alright? And if this can help you calm down, I swear, there's nothing indecent between me and Isabelle. We truly only discussed her plan to bring the saved children to Goldkorb for a bit of fun time."

"Alright, if you say so," she sighed, and turned around and left us. I guess she's trying her best not to act like a teenager. We've been together for so long, so I can somewhat guess what she was thinking. Granted, it seems that she also sometimes can guess what I'm thinking as well.

The tension in the air dissipated as Sofia walked away. Isabelle let out a small chuckle.

"I feel bad for her taking your time. I'm sure she really wanted to spend more time with you."

"Well, I'll do my best to pamper her tonight," I replied.

"Takahiko," Amanda, who had been silent until then, called my name.

"Yes, Amanda?" I responded.

She handed me the parchment she had used to practice her writing.

"Can you read this?"

I took the parchment and quickly recognized the letters she had painstakingly crafted.

"Dear Takahhiko, I wamt to be with you. Anamda."

It was a letter, bearing somewhat messy handwriting, evidence of her determined effort to convey her feelings. It touched my heart, and I could sense the sincerity behind it. I felt truly proud of her.

"Is... is it good?" Amanda asked with a hint of reluctance but full of expectation.

"You made a few mistakes here and there, but it's a wonderful letter, Amanda."

Honestly, my eyes welled up with tears, though I managed to keep them in check.

"Really?" She seemed hesitant yet filled with anticipation.

"Yes, absolutely. You're quite talented. It won't be long before you can be my assistant."

"Alright! Thank you, Takahiko!" Amanda's innocent joy brought a warm smile to my face.

"But don't get too comfortable. There are still some errors. To become my assistant, I can't afford any mistakes in writing. So, don't give up and try again, alright?"

"Yes, Takahiko! I will do my best!"

"That's wonderful Amanda, I can ask your help to guide the other children when they're coming here. Will you help me when that time comes?" Isabelle gently praised her and gave her little purpose. Rather than a sister, she seemed more like her mother. I know best that I should never voice that out.

"Of course, Isabelle. I will be glad to help."

Witnessing Amanda's innocent smile warmed my heart, evoking memories of my initial meeting with Sofia when she was brimming with curiosity and authenticity. It's not that I'm implying the present Sofia is any less wonderful; she's grown into a mature woman, or at least she aspires to be treated as one. But, I think perhaps I missed Sofia's as a little sister. Now that she wanted to be treated like an adult, my brotherly affection for her, seemingly directed to Amanda.

While Sofia's affectionate transformation was a source of joy, it also brought about a subtle sadness. I couldn't help but reminisce about the times when Sofia and I shared a bond akin to that of siblings. She used to be my little sister, full of innocence and curiosity. Now, she sought a more mature connection, and I respected her wishes.

However, with Amanda's presence and her unwavering dedication to learning, my brotherly love found a new target. The way she diligently worked on her writing and calculations, the way she looked up to me with admiration—all of it reminded me of Sofia, whom I once knew. I couldn't deny that Amanda was gradually taking Sofia's place in my heart as the recipient of my protective care. It was a bittersweet realization, knowing that while one chapter of my sibling bond with Sofia had come to an end, a new one with Amanda was just beginning.