Inside the shop, the girl wore an incredulous expression as she watched Grey cooking.
At first, she thought Grey was just bluffing about knowing how to cook. But as she watched him, she realized his movements were filled with grace and elegance. He clearly knew what he was doing.
After an hour, everything was ready. Grey and the girl sat down on chairs, surrounded by an array of dishes. The aroma of the food filled the room, making the girl involuntarily gulp as she looked at the delicious spread before her.
Grey had prepared a dish called "Ebonfeather Stew," a hearty meal made from locally sourced ingredients.
The girl hesitantly took the first bite. As soon as the flavors hit her palate, her eyes widened in delight. The rich, savory taste of the stew spread through her mouth, and she couldn't help but smile. She loved the dish.
"This is amazing," she said, looking at Grey with newfound admiration. "I can't believe you made this."
Grey smiled and nodded, locking eyes with the girl. "I think we haven't introduced ourselves yet," he said.
The girl blinked in surprise. "That's true! We completely forgot about that."
"My name is Grey, and I'm currently 7 years old," Grey said, laughing slightly.
"And I'm Aria, and I'm 15," said the girl. Her eyes widened as she stammered, "Wait, you're just 7? That's less than half my age! I thought you were only a few years younger than me."
Grey didn't said anything, he was just enjoying the expressions on Aria's face.
"Despite being just 7, you seem very mature, and you're also an amazing cook."
" You're quite talented." said Aria.
Grey smiled at Aria's surprise, then decided to steer the conversation towards what he needed to know. "So, Aria," he began, "I'm actually new to this city and mostly stayed inside my house. I'm not really up to speed on what's happening around here. Could you fill me in?"
Aria looked thoughtful for a moment. "Sure, Grey. There's been a lot going on recently. The fallen angels have been more active, and there's talk of some big event or plan in the works. People are on edge, and the atmosphere has been tense."
Grey nodded, taking in the information. "I noticed that everyone here seems to walk instead of flying. Is that part of the tension?"
Aria shook her head. "Not exactly. It's more of an unspoken rule to keep things orderly. Too many people flying around can cause chaos, especially now with everyone so stressed."
"Interesting," Grey mused. "And this big event or plan you mentioned—do you have any idea what it might be?"
Aria hesitated, then leaned in closer. "I've heard rumors, but nothing concrete. Some say it's a massive mobilization for a new conquest, others think it's some sort of grand ritual. Whatever it is, it's big, and it has everyone talking."
Grey furrowed his brow. "A new conquest or a grand ritual... that sounds serious. Why would they need to do something like that?"
Aria sighed. "Power, control, who knows? The fallen angels are always looking to expand their influence. It's what they do. But lately, it feels like there's more urgency, like they're racing against some kind of deadline."
Grey nodded, absorbing the information. "Thanks, Aria. This helps a lot. It sounds like things are about to get very interesting around here."
Aria smiled, though there was a hint of worry in her eyes. "Just be careful, Grey. Things can get dangerous quickly, and you don't want to be caught in the middle of whatever's coming."
Grey gave her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, I can take care of myself. But I appreciate the warning."
They continued eating, the conversation flowing easily between them. Grey felt a sense of relief knowing he had made a friend who could help him navigate this strange new world.
After they finished eating, both Grey and Aira looked satisfied, especially Aira, who leaned back with a contented sigh.
"That was amazing, Grey," she said, smiling warmly. "Thank you for cooking."
"Glad you enjoyed it," Grey replied, his curiosity piqued. "By the way, Aira, I've been meaning to ask... You talk like you're not a fallen angel. What's that about?"
Aira's expression shifted to one of mild disgust. "You know, Grey, although there are many fallen angels tainted by evil, some of us still strive to be good. We can control ourselves and our emotions. But many here... they've let themselves be consumed by their desires. I don't consider myself one of them."
Grey nodded slowly, absorbing her words. "So, you choose to resist the darker aspects of your nature?"
Aira sighed, her gaze distant. "It's not easy, but yes. Just because we're surrounded by darkness doesn't mean we have to become it. Some of us still hold on to a sense of right and wrong and this is same for you right?"
Grey nodded is head and remarked, "That must be tough", admiration evident in his voice. "Especially in a place like this."
"It is," Aira admitted. "But I believe in fighting for what's right, even if it means standing apart from the rest. There are a few others like me, but we keep to ourselves, avoiding drawing too much attention."
Grey looked thoughtful. "I guess that's why you were so willing to help me earlier. You don't see me as just another outsider."
"Exactly," Aira said, her eyes softening. "I saw someone in need, and I wanted to help. It's what keeps me grounded, I suppose."
Grey smiled. "It's good to know there are people like you here, Aira. It makes this place feel a little less... hostile."
Aira returned the smile. "Thanks, Grey. It's nice to talk to someone who understands. Most people here are too wrapped up in their own ambitions to care about anything else."
As they sat there, the remnants of their meal between them, Grey felt a growing sense of camaraderie with Aira. He realized that in this strange and dangerous realm, he had found an unexpected ally.
"So," Grey said, leaning back in his chair, "what's next for you? Any plans?"
Aira shrugged. "Just trying to stay under the radar, keep out of trouble. Maybe help out where I can. And you?"
"I'm still figuring that out," Grey admitted. "But I have a feeling I'll be needing your help again."
Aira laughed softly. "You know where to find me. Just promise me you'll be careful, okay?"
"Promise," Grey said, smiling.
As they stood up, Grey added, "By the way, if you ever need help with cooking or anything else, feel free to ask me."
Aira's eyes lit up with gratitude. "Really? That would be great, Grey. I might just take you up on that."
With that, they walked out of the shop together, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing they had found a bit of light in the midst of the darkness.
As they stood up, Grey added, "By the way, if you ever need help with cooking or anything else, feel free to ask me."
Aira's eyes lit up with gratitude. "Really? That would be great, Grey. I might just take you up on that."
With that, they walked out of the shop together, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing they had found a bit of light in the midst of the darkness.
As they stepped out into the bustling street, Aira turned to Grey with a sincere expression. "You know, Grey, it's not just about cooking. You seem like a genuinely good person to me, despite the darkness of this realm. It's refreshing to meet someone like you."
Grey's cheeks flushed slightly at the unexpected compliment. "Thanks, Aira. That means a lot coming from you. I'll do my best to live up to it."
Aira smiled warmly. "I have no doubt you will, Grey. You've already shown that you're different from the rest. Just remember, if you ever need anything, I'm here for you too."
With a sense of newfound camaraderie, Grey and Aira walked side by side through the bustling city streets, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing they had each other's backs.
As they walked through the bustling streets, Grey couldn't contain his excitement, pointing out various sights and asking Aira about different shops and buildings they passed.
"Wow, look at that!" Grey exclaimed, pointing at a colorful display in one of the shop windows. "What do you think they sell there?"
Aira chuckled at his enthusiasm. "That's a jewelry store, Grey. They sell all sorts of accessories like rings, necklaces, and bracelets."
"Ah, I see!" Grey replied, nodding thoughtfully. "Everything looks so shiny and beautiful."
As they continued their journey, Aira couldn't help but notice Grey's curious gaze darting from one thing to another. "You seem really excited, Grey. Is this your first time exploring a city like this?"
Grey nodded, a wide smile spreading across his face. "Yeah, it is! Back where I'm from, there wasn't much to see. This is all so new and exciting to me."
Aira smiled warmly at him. "I'm glad I could show you around, Grey. There's so much to see and do here."
They soon arrived at a bustling market, filled with vendors selling all sorts of goods. Grey's eyes widened with wonder as he took in the sights and sounds of the market.
"This place is amazing!" Grey exclaimed, his eyes shining with excitement. "There's so much to see and buy!"
Aira laughed, enjoying Grey's enthusiasm. "Just wait until you try some of the food here. It's delicious!"
As they wandered through the market, Aira treated Grey to various snacks and treats, pointing out her favorite stalls along the way. Grey couldn't stop smiling as he sampled the different delicacies, grateful for Aira's kindness and generosity.
As the day began to fade into evening, Aira suggested they head back to her home for the night. "It's getting late, and my place isn't too far from here. Plus, I have another reason for inviting you."
Curious, Grey raised an eyebrow. "Oh? What's that?"
Aira grinned mischievously. "I want to taste more of your cooking! Plus, it's not safe to wander around the city at night, especially for someone new like you."
Grey chuckled at her reasoning. "Well, if you insist, Aira. Lead the way."
With that, they made their way through the winding streets to Aira's home, laughter and chatter filling the air as they walked.