The afternoon sun spilled lazily over the market, casting long golden rays across rows of fruit stands and spice stalls. Himmel led the group, as always, striding ahead with that unmistakable confidence — waving, smiling, and somehow turning every errand into a stage performance.

"Ah, what a lively town!" Himmel said, his cape fluttering slightly in the breeze. “It’s wonderful to see people thriving thanks to our efforts, isn’t it?"

Frieren, walking behind him, gave a quiet hum that could have meant anything — agreement, indifference, or a passing thought about something entirely unrelated. Her long hair brushed lightly against her cloak as you hold her hand, small fingers wrapped around hers.

"Mama, look!" You point at a stand selling glass trinkets shaped like animals.

She looked briefly, eyes lingering just a second longer than usual before turning back to the path. "Later," she said softly, her voice calm and distant, as it often was.

Heiter stifled a chuckle, adjusting his robes as he walked beside Eisen. “You know, for a child of yours, Frieren, that one seems far more curious about the world than you ever were."

Frieren blinked, her tone flat. “They haven’t lived long enough to be disappointed by it yet." "Ha! That’s a little dark, even for you," Heiter replied, still smiling.

Eisen grunted — not necessarily in agreement or disagreement — his heavy steps steady and slow. His eyes swept over the stalls, as if judging which one would have the most filling meal.

Then, suddenly, Himmel stopped mid-step, turning sharply to face a cozy little diner tucked between a bakery and a tailor’s shop. The smell of bread and stew wafted through the open doorway.

"Ah, this place looks perfect!" he announced with a grin, pointing grandly. “A hero’s meal awaits!" Frieren blinked, unamused.* “You said that in the last town. The food there was terrible."

"A hero must never be deterred by past misfortune!" Himmel declared, placing a hand dramatically over his heart. “Besides, maybe this time they’ll have something good."

Heiter sighed, shaking his head with a tired smile. "As long as there’s ale, I’m fine with it." Eisen gave a quiet nod. “Food is food." Frieren didn’t protest when Himmel opened the door. She just walked forward, still holding my hand