Cursed Sorcerer King Of The Arcana

Chapter 32

Night had fallen as the wind had picked up, bringing the cold of a new, different, chaotic world. The dining hall of the Takagi Estate exuded an air of uneasy tranquillity. A grand chandelier hung from the high ceiling, casting a warm, golden light over the long oak dining table. The table was laden with an array of food—evidence of the estate's still-functioning kitchens and resources. The aroma of roasted meat, freshly baked bread, and steaming bowls of soup filled the air, starkly contrasting the decay and chaos outside the estate's fortified walls. To the Takagi family, it was much of a downgrade compared to what they used to eat yet still it was a lot compared to what was outside.

Saya sat near the head of the table, her sharp eyes darting around, observing her companions. Her father, Souichiro, occupied the seat of authority, exuding an intimidating presence even while eating. Yuriko, her mother, maintained a calm composure, her elegance a sharp contrast to the bloodstained world outside. Rei and Takashi sat together, sharing a quiet conversation. Their movements were slow and deliberate as they reflected on their day, she could see Miyamoto giggling about something and Takashi looking like some kind of puppy in love sickened her but she did not voice her thoughts.

Saeko silently ate her meal, her katana resting against the wall behind her chair, ever within reach. Her calm demeanour masked the storm of thoughts running through her mind.

Kohta Hirano, despite the sombre mood, was eagerly wolfing down his food, his enthusiasm a reminder of the simple joys of survival. Occasionally, his eyes flicked toward Saya, his cheeks flushing slightly when he caught her glance. Shizuka Marikawa, the group's nurse, added a touch of levity to the scene, her cheerful tone and carefree attitude lightening the atmosphere as she poured wine into Yuriko's and Rika's glasses, the most recent addition to the group, a childhood friend who the blonde nurse saved. Saya was sure that her parents viewed the nurse in a higher light than before was the only reason they tolerated her behaviour.

Alice Maresato sat next to Saeko as she ate her food. The meat was cut into much smaller and bit-sized pieces and a special serving of non-spicy soup was made just for her. Saya noticed Saeko seemed to be acting more 'motherly' towards the young girl but again she did not voice her thoughts. Zeke sat on the floor beside the girl eating the dog food served to him with excitement. 

The only person missing was Gojo-senpai. They had been told by a staff member who sent a message from the white-haired man that he would be late and they should start with their dinner. So they did, deciding to take his word. To be honest, Saya wouldn't have minded eating her dinner late, after all, this was the first time they all had somewhere safe to stay and wanted everyone to be here, together. Even as annoying as Gojo-senpai was, he was her teacher and helped a lot with the smallest of things. Saya looked at the still-hot food in front of her, she picked up her cutlery, like she had been trained for her entire life and with the grace of a noble ate her dinner.

Suddenly the door was kicked open, making everyone jump, it caused Saya to let go of the fork and knife in her hands, and fall on the floor. Everyone looked towards the door and it was Gojo. He was wearing his usual clothing but everyone could see a bit of an oil mark on his pants and shirt. He held a small rag in his hands, using it to clean the grease off his fingers and palm. Once done with the rag, Gojo pulled it behind him from everyone's eyes and it disappeared.

He took the only unoccupied seat around the table, directly opposite to Souichiro who sat at the head of the table. The entire room had fallen in silence as they watched him calmly take a seat. 

Gojo: Is something the matter?

Gojo spoke up as he looked up to the group watching him in silence as he was an exotic animal. Saya's eyes looked around the room and it was turned everyone was staring at him.