Invitation to Dinner Together

"Why? Why is it like this?" Lecia seethed with hatred as she observed the familiar and affectionate interactions between Allen and Irina from the corner of the room.

"Why is it that you treat me with such coldness when you wake up, yet you shower that girl with such love?"

Lecia's palms clenched tightly as her green eyes bore into Irina with a mix of envy and animosity, a stark contrast to her previous innocent demeanor in front of Allen.

"I won't allow you to take my big brother away from me! Never!" She clenched her teeth, casting one final glance at the two happily laughing together in the garden.

Reluctantly and filled with anger, she left the place behind.

Meanwhile, Allen, sensing a presence at the far end of the room, cast a fleeting glance in that direction, catching sight of Lecia as she hurriedly retreated.

However, he paid it no mind, donning an expression of indifference.

"What's wrong, brother?" Irina, sensing the shift in Allen's expression, immediately asked with concern, gently clasping his hand.

Allen's attention snapped back as he heard Irina's soft voice, and he regarded her affectionately.

"It's okay, my little girl," he murmured softly, his gentle hand caressing her blonde hair while his gaze overflowed with tenderness.

Irina simply nodded, relishing the soothing sensation of Allen's touch, her heart filled with contentment.

As the sky grew darker, signaling the approaching nightfall, Allen glanced at the horizon before turning his attention to Irina.

"Come, Irina, let's head back," he said with a warm smile.

Irina responded with a sweet nod, immediately clasping Allen's hand as if afraid he might slip away.

Allen chuckled affectionately, his grip on her tiny hand growing tender, and together, they made their way back into the grandeur of the mansion.

...

Allen and Irina strolled back to Allen's room, only to find his mother, Greta, absent when he opened the door.

"Hm? Has Mom already left?" Allen inquired with a hint of surprise in his voice, but he quickly dismissed the thought and ushered Irina inside.

Irina's eyes brightened with joy as she stepped into Allen's room once more.

"Big brother! Can I continue reading books about heroes?" Irina pointed excitedly towards the book-filled shelves at the far end of the room, encompassing stories and his magical research alike.

Upon hearing this, Allen nodded lightly and replied, "Of course!"

"Go ahead and do what you want, Irina," Allen said with a smile.

"Yay!" Irina jumped happily and hurriedly made her way to the bookcase, selecting a thick white book.

She then walked over to Allen's study, sat down, and eagerly opened the book.

As he observed her actions, a faint smile tugged at Allen's lips, his curiosity piqued by the book Irina had selected.

He couldn't resist walking closer.

"Do you truly enjoy stories about heroes, Irina?" Allen asked, and his expression relaxed.

Irina nodded eagerly and replied, "Of course, big brother!"

"It is said that the seven heroes are the gods' most beloved beings, bestowed with countless blessings!" Irina spoke with deep admiration evident in her voice.

"In addition, their noble purpose is to vanquish the wicked Demon Emperor!" She explained everything to Allen, her expression pure and innocent.

Upon hearing this, Allen lowered his head slightly and murmured, "A truly honorable purpose, huh?"

The thought of the hero who had become his enemy evoked a deep sense of resentment within him.

Yet he didn't find it strange or hold any anger towards Irina for idolizing the hero.

After all, heroes were often depicted as sacred and virtuous beings.

This perception was deeply ingrained in the minds of the people, thanks to the centuries-long efforts of the holy churches.

Through their proclamations and propaganda, they had successfully indoctrinated the masses with the notion of heroism's greatness.

Undeniably, he had to acknowledge that the heroes were truly formidable and lived up to their renowned status.

However, being beings from a different world, their concerns didn't solely revolve around the welfare of this unfamiliar world.

Thus, even though he would have to relive the struggles from his previous life to confront the heroes, he held no fear in his heart.

For the salvation of this world, he realized that the heroes might pose a greater threat than even the Demon Emperor himself.

Swiftly, he pushed aside those ruminations and directed his gaze towards the innocent Irina.

"I understand. The heroes are truly remarkable," Allen said, his expression shifting as he softened his smile and affectionately ruffled Irina's hair.

But Irina, upon hearing his words, turned her head towards Allen, her eyes filled with warmth.

"No, big brother!"

"To me, you are greater than any hero because you are my hero!" She beamed foolishly, her head swaying in embarrassment.

Allen was taken aback by her response; a wave of emotions washed over him—a blend of melancholy and bliss.

"You never cease to amaze me, my little girl," Allen thought to himself, sighing inwardly as he gently pinched her cheek.

The two of them enjoyed the beautiful moment until, suddenly, there was a knock on Allen's bedroom door.

"Knock!"

Upon hearing the sound, Allen swiftly redirected his attention towards the door, inquiring, "Who is it?"

In no time, the voice of the maid emanated from behind the door, responding with the utmost respect.

"Young Master Allen, I apologize for the interruption, but I have been asked by the master to invite you to join him in the dining room for a communal dinner."

Allen arched an eyebrow in response, instantly realizing that dinner gatherings were usually reserved for significant occasions.

And now that he had awakened, Julius would undoubtedly seize this opportunity to convene the family.

Naturally, he had already deduced Julius' intentions, which likely revolved around inquiring about the Wizard who had appeared in his dream or discussing his arranged engagement with Alice.

Taking a shallow breath, Allen swiftly responded, "Very well, thank you. You may leave," he added.

"In that case, I shall take my leave, young master," the maid's voice echoed respectfully before eventually fading away.

After a brief moment of contemplation, Allen glanced at Irina.

"My dear little girl, would you like to accompany me for dinner?" He asked tenderly.

Without a moment's hesitation, Irina nodded enthusiastically and rose from her seat.

"Of course! As long as I have my big brother, hehehe~" She beamed with joy, intertwining her fingers with his.

Arthur returned her warm smile and nodded.

"Then, let's go!"