Chapter 89: Rivalry a New

The group was finally back at the mansion, enjoying a rare moment of peace after the harrowing events at the temple. Haven's Hollow had been left in better shape than when they arrived, and Ryuto hoped they could enjoy a few days without impending disaster.

Unfortunately for him, peace was not something that came easily to his party, especially not when Celeste and Nina were involved.

Ryuto was seated at the long dining table in the main hall, savoring the rare calm while nursing a cup of tea. Edwin had taken a ride into the village to gather supplies, and Ruda was out hunting, leaving Ryuto alone with Celeste and Nina. That was always a dangerous combination.

"Ryuto," Celeste said sweetly, entering the room with a tray of freshly baked scones. She was wearing a modest but elegant dress that accented her features, her usually practical demeanor softened by a rare domestic effort. "You've been working so hard lately. I thought you deserved a treat."