Chapter 24
It was the day to take the Fire Child back to Tulebol. The second older brother had already departed for his assigned country. For the sake of the Academy City, they needed to hand over duties and then return.
The Fire Child had expressed to the older brothers that, from the age of ten, they wanted to attend school in Ordekia. They understood the possibility of being isolated at school, yet still insisted.
In fact, at tea gatherings, there had been times when children of the same age had harassed them. At first, the attendees were very limited, and those who might cause trouble were excluded, but once the Fire Child got used to it, that practice stopped. Wio’s accompaniment was also limited to the carriage. Of course, since Wio and I were waiting in the servants’ lounge on the premises, there was no risk of any uncontrolled behavior.
There had been snide remarks due to being originally commoners, for having caused burns to the older sister, and for lacking noble education—such as in speech and manners. Yet, they had also made friends who would stand up for them.
In Tulebol, they could not make friends outside of the Water Child. Even if they played with children of the same age in the orphanage, a line would be drawn because they were a divine child.
Above all, they wanted to be with their family. That was likely the biggest reason. Even if isolated at school, having family around would be enough.
When the Water Child began attending school, the Fire Child was scheduled to return to Ordekia. Wio would carry a letter from the older brother and decide after discussing it with the Tulebol church, but first, the Fire Child and Water Child needed to talk.
The Fire Child had not been told about the plan to build a school. If it wasn’t completed by the time they reached school age, it would cause disappointment. Moreover, if friends were attending a noble school, they might want to go there instead.
“Take care of yourself. I always pray for your happiness from this country.”
“Yes, Elder Sister.”
“I’ll write you a letter, so please reply.”
“Yes, Elder Sister. You should work hard at your studies too.”
They greeted the family one by one. Even though they had talked a lot yesterday, everyone sending them off seemed to have things they still wanted to say.
“We’ll be waiting for your return.”
“Older brother, please play with us again when you get back.”
“Don’t forget to be grateful to those who take care of you. Travel safely.”
“Yes, Father. I’m off.”
Four years ago, the Fire Child had departed silently, without even shedding a tear. This time, they were holding back tears while trying their best to smile.
Sitting on the driver’s seat as before, they waved enthusiastically to everyone, though it was different this time.
“I’m off!”
‘Quoan!’
I wagged my tail energetically too.
Now, it was time to depart with a smile.
After a while, once the tears had stopped, the Fire Child asked Wio to make a detour. It was the village where they always stopped to buy fruit. The fish charm received in that village was still treasured.
“Let’s stop by. Ruje likes the fruit there.”
“Really, the tail’s wagging!”
‘Yip!’
The tail swayed with excitement. The usual fruit wasn’t in season, but maybe they’d find something.
Being a regular at the village, they were even allowed to taste things not for sale. Since strawberry-like fruit was in season, they bought a little. They had wanted to buy more, but were told it would spoil quickly, so only what they could eat immediately was allowed.
Citrus fruits were also in season, so they tried some, but it was too strong for me.
“Ruje, you’re making a funny face.”
“Oh? Too sour for the fox, huh?”
“Ruje, here, water.”
It was sour enough to make my nose wrinkle. Wio and the others said it was sour but sweet, so maybe I was just sensitive to acidity. The fresh citrus aroma smelled so delicious, yet I couldn’t eat it—it was frustrating.
I had a strawberry-like fruit to reset my palate, but the sourness still dominated.
Still, the strawberry-like fruit was delicious. Maybe I could make strawberry milk with it. I’ll ask the butler next time.
“I remember what Uncle told me to learn here.”
“I see.”
“I thought I was abandoned, but maybe that wasn’t true. Uncle said he felt the same.”
“I see.”
Recalling the past, the Fire Child spoke to Wio with a calm expression. They probably wanted to say this, which is why they requested a stop at this village.
At such times, one might think of saying something a bit more clever, but Wio didn’t have that option.
Embarrassed, the Fire Child suggested it was time to depart. Wio patted their head and started moving the carriage.
I was relieved to realize that the memories of that time weren’t purely painful for the Fire Child.
