Morning - Flamerose Inn

  I hummed while packing the lunch basket, my hands moving with practiced efficiency. Sandwiches, fruit, some of Mom's honey cakes—everything Brother Yuki might enjoy during our walk to Grandpa Bernard's farm.

  Our walk.

  Heat rushed to my cheeks. Even though it was just a simple stroll, my heart wouldn't stop racing. Maybe... if things went well... I could feed him directly?

  "Kyaa!" I covered my burning face with both hands. "Stop it, Manna! You're being ridiculous!"

  But I couldn't help smiling. During Brother Yuki's stay at the inn, he'd always kept his promises—even the small ones. When he said he'd help me carry water, he did. When he promised to tell me about his forest life, he spent an entire evening answering my questions.

  So this promise too...

  I was certain he'd come exactly on time.

  I just had to do my best!

  One hour later, the entrance bell chimed.

  "I'm home!" Mom's voice.

  She'd left early with Brother Yuki and Mister Dawgian's party for the guild.

  I hadn't expected her back so soon.

  Relief washed over me. At least she'd returned before the other guests woke up.

  Meeting strangers always made me nervous—their stares, their questions, the way they looked at me.

  As if their gaze told me that I was just a child playing innkeeper.

  "Welcome home, Mom!"

  "Are you busy, darling?"

  She removed her traveling cloak, eyeing the lunch basket on the counter.

  "Not at all! I just finished serving breakfast to our residents."

  "Nothing went wrong? You heated the food properly?"

  I puffed my chest out.

  "I've used the tools several times, you know~"

  "Haha, that's good to hear. Soon you'll manage this inn by yourself, my little girl~"

  "I'm not little anymore!"

  "Haha, don't tease her too much, Madam~" Old man Basher's voice drifted from the common room.

  "She's already at that age—walking around with boys and such."

  "Eeehh?!"

  My heart stopped. How did he know?!

  "Hm?" Mom's eyes sharpened. "What do you mean, old man?"

  "That new boy you accompanied this morning. I heard Manna plans to spend time with him at noon."

  "Is that true, Manna?!"

  "It's just... I mean..."

  "I heard them talking too!" another resident called out.

  "I saw Manna mumbling to herself this morning!" someone else added.

  Kyaaah!

  I thought they were all still asleep! Usually they lazed around until midday!

  Sister Linea, one of our quieter residents, hesitantly raised her hand.

  "I... I actually saw them talking this morning. By accident. Since it seemed awkward to interrupt, I went back to my room. Sorry..."

  The world was ending. My face burned hotter than the kitchen stove.

  I'd planned to use my break time as an excuse. Why was I born so clumsy?!

  "So..." Mom crossed her arms, her expression shifting to that terrifying protective mode. "Care to explain, my lovely daughter?"

  "Haha, looks like the cat's out of the bag!" Oldman Basher laughed.

  "Gahaha, slow down, Madam! This just means Manna's growing into a fine lady, right?" Mister Ranngarf—when had he appeared?—grinned at his companion.

  "That's what I meant, old brat! Gahaha!"

  The entire common room erupted in laughter. Even the neighbors poked their heads in to see what the commotion was about.

  I wanted to disappear into the floorboards.

  Thirty minutes later, after everyone finally left for their work, I faced Mom alone.

  "Please, Mother!" I bowed deeply—a perfect ninety-degree angle.

  "Your Majesty! My respectfully honorable mother!"

  It was my ultimate weapon, the one that always worked.

  But using it was so embarrassing! This wasn't like me at all!

  "Haah... this again." Mom sighed, but her expression softened.

  "Alright, give me some assurance at least, my daughter."

  "What do you expect, Mom? Like I said, I'm just taking a walk with Brother, and perhaps..."

  "Perhaps what?"

  "If the time is right... we'll have lunch together..."

  Saying it out loud made it real. My cheeks burned again.

  "That's exactly what worries me, Manna."

  "But it's just a normal lunch with Brother! Nothing more—"

  "You don't know what men are thinking! You're still too young, too trusting!" Mom's voice rose with familiar worry.

  And there it was. The same reaction as always.

  "Do you still not trust Brother, Mom?" Frustration leaked into my voice.

  "You've seen how he acts during his stay here. How he treats me when we talk."

  Mom bit her lip but said nothing.

  "He's friendly but never inappropriate like some guests. He teaches me things without expecting anything in return. He even gives suggestions to improve our inn." My voice wavered. "He's... he's like the brother I always wanted. The more I talk with him, the more I wish he really was my family. What else could I ask for?"

  Mom's expression crumbled. "Manna..."

  "I know what you're thinking." The words tumbled out now, everything I'd held back.

  "You think I'm fooling myself again. That I'm picking another 'boyfriend' when all I want is a brother."

  "That's not—"

  "But it keeps happening! Every time I try to befriend someone older, someone kind who might treat me like a little sister, everyone assumes it's romance! The merchants, the residents, even you sometimes!" Tears pricked my eyes. "I just wanted siblings, Mom. Is that so wrong? Am I cursed to always be alone?"

  "Oh, sweetheart..." Mom moved toward me.

  Cling cling cling.

  The entrance bell chimed.

  "Excuse me." Brother Yuki's voice.

  "Kyaaah!!" Mom and I screamed in perfect unison.

  He stood in the doorway. Even with his usual impassive demeanor, he's clearly confused by our reaction.

  How much had he heard?!

  "I'll wait in my room." He started backing toward the stairs indifferently.

  "No!" I grabbed his sleeve without thinking. "I'm ready! Let's go now!"

  Mom opened her mouth, closed it, then sighed deeply. "Manna..."

  "Please, Mom. Trust me. Trust him."

  She looked between us for a long moment. Then, slowly, she nodded.

  "Be back before evening. And Yuki?"

  "Yes, ma'am?"

  "If anything happens to her, I'll hunt you to the ends of the earth."

  "Understood, ma'am." He said it so seriously that I almost believed he knew what Mom was capable of.

  "Now go, before I change my mind."

  I grabbed the lunch basket and practically dragged Brother Yuki out the door.

  Afternoon - The Road to Bernard's Farm

  The midday sun warmed my face as we walked down the stone-paved road leading south from the city gates. The guards waved us through with barely a glance—they'd grown used to seeing Brother Yuki coming and going.

  "So," Brother Yuki said after a few minutes of comfortable silence, "what did I interrupt back there?"

  "Nothing important!" The words blurted out instantly.

  "Manna?" His tone was gentle, but I knew he wouldn't let it drop.

  Brother Yuki was perceptive in ways that sometimes scared me.

  "It's just..." I clutched the basket handle tighter. "Mom worries. About me spending time with you. She thinks... people will talk."

  "They will."

  Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

  I glanced at him sharply, but his expression was thoughtful rather than dismissive.

  "People always talk, Manna. Especially in small cities like Spawnhall." He looked at the sky, watching a bird circle overhead. "But their talk doesn't change the fact. You wanted company and I agreed. That's all."

  "That's all..." I murmured quietly, sneaking a peek at him.

  "Unless you're planning something 'else'?" He glanced at me with a slight playful smirk. "Should I be worried then?"

  "Brother!" I swatted his arm. Smiling despite being embarrassed. "Don't tease me!"

  "Sure, sure. I believe you."

  We walked in companionable silence for a while, the city walls shrinking behind us. The road curved through gentle hills dotted with farms. In the distance, I could see Grandpa Bernard's property—the largest plot in the area.

  "You know," I said carefully, "I heard what you said to Mom. About recognizing our hard work."

  "Yeah."

  "But... you barely know us. How do you see all that?"

  Brother Yuki was quiet for a moment. "I notice things. A habit from... before." He gestured vaguely.

  "In the forest, noticing small details meant survival. It's the same here."

  "What do you notice about me?" The question slipped out before I could close my mouth.

  He glanced at me, and for a moment I saw something ancient in his eyes—like he was much older than his eighteen years.

  "You work harder than what people see. And there's a hint of 'lonely', i think." His voice was matter-of-fact, not cruel.

  "Though I doubt it myself when I see how cheerful you are."

  I stopped walking. Tears blurred my vision.

  "Manna?" Concern colored his voice.

  "How?" The word came out choked. "How do you see all that?"

  He stopped beside me and silent for a moment. "I was the same."

  I looked up at him, surprised.

  "My adoptive father was my sole focus. Since his passing, I’ve had to expand my world beyond his shadow. What I’ve done is trivial. Your efforts naturally deserve more; the weight of responsibility at sixteen—I understand it."

  "Brother Yuki..."

  Suddenly he patted my head and ruffled my hair gently before walking ahead of me.

  "Hurry up, 'little sister'. or we might miss the lunch time." His smile was playful despite his impassive face.

  I hurried to catch up, wiping my eyes quickly. "Hmph! Wait for me!"

  We walked the rest of the way with lighter hearts.

  Bernard's Farm

  "Well, well! Young Yuki!" Grandpa Bernard waved from beside a row of flower beds. "Didn't expect to see you back so soon!"

  The farm stretched before us, transformed from my memories. What had been simple vegetable plots now bloomed with color—flowers of every shade arranged in neat beds. Sprouts pushed through dark soil, creating patterns like a living quilt.

  "This is..." I spun slowly, taking it all in. "This is beautiful!"

  "Your brother's handiwork. Of course, only part of it, I tell you!" Grandpa Bernard jabbed his finger at us with his stubborn and prideful face. "He helped clear and prepare these beds three days ago. Said he thought it was just vegetable work, the poor lad!" He laughed heartily. "Didn't realize he was helping with my wife's dream project. She's wanted a flower garden for years."

  Brother Yuki looked genuinely confused. "I thought I was just turning soil."

  "You were! But that's the foundation, boy. Now look at it!" Bernard gestured proudly. "My Elise is beside herself with joy. Won't stop talking about it."

  "I'm glad it turned out well. I assumed my work was incomplete," Yuki replied. His voice was polite, yet detached.

  "Nonsense! You did most of the work efficiently—exactly what we needed." Bernard's expression turned sly. "And who's this lovely young lady?"

  "I'm Manna, from the Flamerose Inn!" I bowed politely. "It's nice to meet you, Grandpa Bernard!"

  "Flamerose Inn! Rinne's girl?" His eyes lit up. "I should've seen the resemblance! You have her spirit in those eyes."

  "Thank you, sir."

  "Well, any friend of Yuki's is welcome here! And since this lad worked so hard without knowing what he was actually building..." Grandpa Bernard winked. "How about I let you two enjoy the gardens? There's a nice spot under the oak tree—perfect for a picnic. Consider it an apology for the deception!"

  "No, thank—" Brother Yuki started.

  "Nonsense! Go on, enjoy yourselves. Just don't trample the flower beds!" Grandpa Bernard was already walking back toward his house, chuckling.

  I looked at Brother Yuki, who shrugged with a slight smile.

  "Shall we?"

  The oak tree stood at the edge of the property, its massive branches spreading shade over a circle of soft grass. From here, we could see the entire farm—the colorful flower beds, the neat rows of vegetables beyond, even the distant city walls.

  I spread out a cloth from the basket. Brother Yuki settled against the tree trunk, looking more relaxed than I'd ever seen him.

  "Here!" I handed him a sandwich. "I made them this morning."

  He took a bite, and his eyebrows rose. "Exquisite as always, Manna."

  Pride warmed my chest. "Mom taught me her recipes. Though I added some herbs I thought you'd like—you seem to prefer savory foods."

  "You're quite observant." He smiled slightly, almost unnoticed.

  We ate in comfortable silence for a while, watching clouds drift across the blue sky. A warm breeze carried the scent of flowers and fresh earth.

  "Manna," Yuki said eventually. "You have my gratitude."

  "For what?"

  "For the invitation." He offered a small, vague gesture toward the garden. "Indeed, a change of pace was necessary."

  "It's just a farm," I said, though I understood what he meant.

  "It's more than you think." He closed his eyes, leaning back against the tree.

  "I'll always want your company, Brother." The words came easily now. "You're family to me."

  "Am I?"

  He smiled without opening his eyes.

  We sat in companionable silence. The breeze whispered through the oak leaves. Somewhere nearby, birds sang.

  I watched Brother Yuki's breathing slow and deepen. His face relaxed, losing the constant alertness he usually carried.

  He'd fallen asleep.

  I should wake him up. We had things to do, and he'd probably be embarrassed sleeping during our outing.

  But...

  He looked peaceful. For the first time since I'd met him, he looked his actual age—not a scary adventurer who would kill monsters anytime, but an eighteen-year-old brother who was tired and finally felt safe enough to rest.

  I pulled my knees to my chest and simply watched. The sun painted gold patterns through the leaves. The flower beds swayed in the breeze. And my brother—since he was my brother to me, no matter what anyone said—slept peacefully beside me.

  "Thank you, Brother," I whispered. "For looking at me. For understanding."

  He didn't respond, lost in his peaceful rest.

  I smiled and closed my own eyes, content just to share this moment.

  Evening - Return to the Inn

  The sun was lower when Brother Yuki finally woke up.

  "I fell asleep, huh?" he said nonchalantly.

  "Obviously!" I laughed, packing the empty basket. "You looked like you needed it though."

  "I suppose I owe you one then."

  I paused, holding the basket handle tight. "Then you're buying that fancy cheesecake on the way home," I said. I tried to sound firm, but a grin tugged at my mouth. "No taking back your offer, Brother."

  He didn't argue with my demand. He simply gave a silent smile, surrendering to my childish request.

  We walked back toward the city as the sky turned orange and gold.

  The silence between us wasn't stiff anymore; it felt like the garden followed us all the way home.

  Flamerose Inn - Evening

  "We're home!"

  Mom looked up from the counter, her expression carefully neutral.

  "How was it, my now-big girl?"

  The forced smile on her face made me wince. She still didn't fully approve.

  Is this the curse again? Even after everything, she still thinks...?

  My face must have shown my distress because Mom's expression softened slightly.

  "So you two had quite an enjoyable trip, huuhh?" Her tone trailed off, clearly inviting a confession from me.

  "Mm-hm..." I couldn't quite meet her eyes.

  "Hm? What's wrong with you two?" Brother Yuki looked between us, genuinely confused.

  "It's nothing! So, did you find what you were looking for?" I tried to change the subject.

  "Not entirely satisfying, but I hope this works."

  Before I could ask what he meant, he pressed something into my hand—a soft green headband, woven with delicate patterns.

  "It's a thank-you gift for your hard work. I don't know what's appropriate for women, but I thought it suits both of you."

  "Thank you so much! Wait—both?"

  "Both?" Mom echoed.

  "Yes, both."

  My heart sank. Mom got one too?

  "I-i don't really need it," Mom said gruffly. "It was Manna who worked hard all day—"

  "That's not true, right?" Brother Yuki's voice was firm. "I know you manage all the inn's supplies, handle the kingdom's regulatory paperwork, distribute quest postings to adventurers in need. And you still found time to accompany me to the guild, fill in for Manna's duties, and ensure everything runs smoothly."

  He turned to me. "And Manna already works in her early years—cleaning the entire inn, serving food, handling resident requests including mine, preparing meals for you both, learning inn management, and still finding time to accompany me for relaxation."

  Mom and I stood speechless.

  "I think both of you are equal in hard work. So I bought matching gifts."

  "Mom..." I looked at her properly for the first time. "You're that busy?"

  "Someone has to be." She didn't meet my eyes.

  Guilt twisted in my stomach. I'd been jealous over a headband when Mom was carrying so much alone.

  "I think I'll head to my room now." Brother Yuki started toward the stairs.

  "Wait, Brother!" Something inside me snapped. "It's still not fair!"

  He turned, looking genuinely startled.

  "I prepared lunch for us! But you didn't finish it all!"

  "I thought that one sandwich was all you brought," He replied.

  "Why are you so dense, Yuki?" Mom sighed.

  Brother Yuki looked between us, completely lost.

  "Alright, let's eat now." Mom's voice softened completely. "I'll heat everything up—"

  "No." Brother Yuki raised a hand. "It's my turn to thank you both properly."

  He gently took the basket from my hands.

  "What are you going to do?" Mom asked.

  "Trying a new magic."

  VOOM.

  Despite his unreadable expression, I could roughly guess that Brother Yuki was concentrating.

  A kind of wind was swirling visibly around the basket. Was that what they called 'arcana'?

  Warmth spread through the room—not just near the basket, but all over the room.

  The chill from the evening air was gone. It felt like standing near a perfectly banked fire.

  I even felt the warmth seeping in from all over my skin. Not only the air around me, but also inside my body. It's so nostalgic, like something i longed for. My chest tightened by this strange yet gentle warmth. Pressing hands to my heart, i could feel it beating steady and relaxed. I wondered if magic can really do this.

  "What is this magic? It's so warm suddenly," despite my wondering, i smiled.

  "The chills are completely gone," Mom added, surprised.

  VOOM.

  The magic stopped.

  "Ugh...the control is still difficult." Brother Yuki looked frustrated. "But the food should be warm now. Please taste it, Ma'am."

  Mom lifted the cloth. Steam rose from the sandwiches. "It's perfectly warm."

  "Amazing! Can you teach me, Brother?" I bounced excitedly.

  "Of course."

  "But how did you know about our situations?" Mom's sharp eyes fixed on him. "About my work. I handle those affairs discreetly."

  "Ah, yes! How did you know, Brother?"

  Brother Yuki's expression said clearly that he was surprised Mom would question him.

  Cling cling cling.

  "I'm beat!" Mister Ranngarf stumbled through the door.

  "You're just old, Ranngarf! Hahaha!" Sister Myrian followed, looking equally exhausted.

  "Does anyone else smell something amazing?" Sister Seilyn asked.

  "I do!" Mister Ranngarf sniffed the air dramatically.

  Oh no. Mister Dawgian's party was supposed to be camping outside tonight. Why were they here?

  "Haha, there's a feast! Can you share some, boy?" Mister Ranngarf grinned hopefully.

  "I know it's shameful, but... may I have some too?" Even Mister Dawgian looked worn out.

  Brother Yuki's voice cut through their requests.

  "Before this continues, I must apologize. I can't share this with any of you."

  "What?! Why you—" Mister Dawgian snapped.

  "Because this meal was prepared with great effort by my sister, only for me."

  My heart stopped.

  He said it so effortlessly, with that mysterious, charming smile.

  It's... it's so unfair...

  "Sorry..." Mister Dawgian deflated immediately.

  "Ah, alright. We just need some food, gahaha!" Mister Ranngarf recovered quickly.

  "Is there any leftover, Madam?" Sister Seilyn asked sweetly.

  "Looks like I'm cooking for everyone." Mom sounded resigned but amused. "Wait a moment."

  "Ma'am, please serve them as much as they want. I'll pay for it." Brother Yuki pulled out his coin pouch.

  "Mom, let me help too!"

  "Thanks, Yuki~" The party chorused.

  "Gahaha, we owe you one, kid!"

  That evening, I had a feast with my new family.

  As I watched Brother Yuki smirk at Mister Ranngarf's terrible jokes, saw Mom's genuine smile, felt the warmth of friends gathered around our table, something inside me finally settled.

  Don't worry, Dad. I looked at the ceiling, as if he could hear me from wherever he watched. I won't be lonely anymore.

  I have a brother now.

  I have family.

  [Special Chapter - Lunch with Sibling: End]

  Give it all to me. Let's build this 'world' together.

  New Content Unlocked: Special Chapter of Briant the city guard.