Chapter 84.3 - The First Year at the Academy - The Wall To The Top (3)
"However, since we're all poor and struggling, it's difficult for everyone to afford food. That's why we receive rationed meals in the morning and evening. I often help with the distribution."
"I see. But it seems like the Council has not completely abandoned its responsibilities. They even handle the food distribution."
"Yes, it's a great help. Although it's mostly rice porridge."
As soon as she said that, Dana covered her mouth.
"I spoke without thinking."
Upon seeing her reaction, Lily and I smiled.
And as we were about to return to work, I casually glanced at the table.
It felt like there was a tendency or something—similar dishes.
I stopped my hands and pondered for a moment, then muttered softly.
"If it's alright with you, could you make some rice porridge?"
Dana was surprised, and I pointed to the dishes I had bought.
"Without asking for your preferences, I bought them according to my taste, so all the dishes were similar. I could order something else, but it will likely be crowded at the end of the year."
Even though she seemed puzzled, Dana was persuaded by Lily, who joined in again.
She agreed with a resigned expression.
I find it interesting that even though I made the suggestion, I'm quite persuasive.
It's a bit refreshing. So far, I've only met strong-willed women.
To avoid any change of heart, I said, "Please feel free to use whatever you need," and lined up ingredients and seasonings.
And once it started, it seemed like they got serious about it.
The two engaged in a serious discussion, reached a conclusion, and immediately got to work.
"We're done with the cleaning!"
Before long, Ted arrived at the battlefield-turned-kitchen.
However, he carelessly stepped in and was driven out by Lily, saying, "Big brother, you're in the way!".
Attracted by her voice, Nails also peered into the kitchen.
"Mom, what are you doing?"
"Alter-sama asked if we could make rice porridge."
"I'm helping."
Dana and Lily replied without even looking at him.
Nails tilted his head, and Ted, with only his eyes showing from above, chimed in.
"Hey… wouldn't it be better if I went to pick up the order?"
"Oh, is it already that time?"
Looking out the window, the sky was already turning red.
Oh no. I hadn't prepared the ordered dishes or even the tableware.
Seeing me in that state, Ted said, "Then, we'll go get it!".
And he pulled his face back.
In a hurry, I rushed out of the kitchen. Ted and the others were already outside.
I chased after them and called out.
"Wait! Don't forget the order slip!"
"I have it!"
"Explain that I asked you! Say my name, got it!?"
"It's Alter!"
Does he not know my full name?
As I tried to stop them, Nails shouted, "It's alright!".
Hesitating for a moment, the three disappeared, running.
Is everything going to be alright?
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Updat𝒆d fr𝒐m freew𝒆bnov𝒆l.c(o)m