Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix-Chapter 225: Latest project
Upon entering the house, the sisters' surprise was palpable. The rooms were generously sized, with simple yet sufficient furnishings. There was a spacious kitchen, a roomy living area, and a sizable dining room, all of which seemed almost too grand for their current possessions. The house exuded an air of grandeur that contrasted starkly with their previous way of life.
"My room is on the first floor, and your rooms are right above on the second floor," Rain said. "The bedrooms are quite big, and you can sleep together in the same room if you want. I am going to prepare dinner."
Rain pondered how his younger sisters would adapt to the idea of sleeping alone in their spacious rooms. He had his concerns, but the multitude of tasks and new experiences awaiting them in their new home would likely keep them busy and distracted.
However, Rain found solace in the belief that once they discovered the secret tunnel connecting their new residence to their parents' place, their perspective might shift.
The prospect of working together to bridge the physical distance between their homes would serve as a powerful motivator and bring a comforting sense of closeness to their parents despite the unfamiliarity of their new surroundings.
"Big bro, how much was this house?" Dana asked when they came to have dinner.
"It was free… kind of," Rain replied. "I managed to help in the war quite a bit, and Branden decided to give me the house instead of filling my pocket with coins."
Rain prepared a delightful dinner of spaghetti coated in rich cheese and tomato sauce. His younger sisters devoured it hungrily, empty plates attesting to their hearty appetites. They even requested seconds. As their full bellies and youth took their toll, Rain gently suggested they head to their room for a good night's sleep.
Come morning, Dana was the first to wake, eager to explore the city. Though Kei seemed initially less interested, the allure of visiting bookstores won her over. Gila, however, looked a bit apprehensive once they stepped outside. The bustling city streets, crowded with people, overwhelmed her, prompting Rain to hold her hand for reassurance.
Dana, always the adventurous one, raced ahead, her eyes scanning the various shops they passed. Her curiosity occasionally led to a stumble, much to Kei's audible frustration. Rain couldn't help but wonder if he could gain their respect by being more cautious and less prone to mishaps.
Kei, usually aloof, revealed a more childlike side of herself when Rain took them to explore some bookstores. Here, her passion for books truly ignited. Rain paid close attention to the kinds of books that captured her interest. Still, it became apparent that Kei had an insatiable appetite for reading, devouring anything she could find.
Conversely, Dana seemed notably uninterested during their library visit. Her typical adventurous spirit appeared stifled within the quiet confines of the book-lined shelves, and she appeared somewhat bored, longing for more engaging and lively activities.
"Ugh… their prices," Kei said and then sighed.
Rain knew that his sisters had earned some money back home through their magical help with household chores. However, he also understood that prices in the capital could be quite high. This left him pondering whether he should pamper Kei a bit, but he couldn't shake the belief that true satisfaction would come from Kei buying what she wanted with her own earnings.
Nonetheless, Rain remained ready to offer assistance, whether in the form of work or guidance, should Kei require it. He believed that while he could provide support, allowing her the independence to earn and choose her own purchases would ultimately be more fulfilling for Kei.
"I bought some things that I thought that you all would need at home, but I am not a girl, so let's buy some other things that you will need," Rain said. "You guys will stay here for a while, so you shouldn't shy away."
Initially, Rain had sent his sisters on a mission to procure essential household items. Still, as they ventured through the city's shops, their priorities seemed to shift. Instead of focusing on practical necessities, their attention was captivated by the allure of clothing stores.
After browsing through the racks and aisles for a while, a subtle sense of unease began to creep into their minds. They couldn't help but wonder if their attire made them stand out as rural newcomers in the sophisticated urban atmosphere of the capital. This self-consciousness was a familiar concern that seemed to affect people of all ages when they found themselves in a new place.
Ultimately, it was a vivid reminder of how fashion held a significant place in the lives of girls, regardless of their age. As Rain observed their growing preoccupation with their appearance, he couldn't help but feel a mild sense of exasperation, almost tempted to let out a sigh at their unwavering focus on their fashion choices.
"Are you going to leave for work often?" Kei suddenly asked when they were returning home.
"Occasionally, but I will focus on the capital," Rain replied. "Even if I were to go to far away areas, I can reach them in half a day if I am serious."
Even though Kei didn't vocalize her concerns, Rain sensed her worry about his job and the inevitable times when he would have to leave them alone in the house. It left Rain contemplating how he could address her unease.
Among the array of potential solutions that crossed his mind, one option shone the brightest: creating a connection between their new home and his grandparents' residence. This could serve as a welcoming haven for his parents when they visited the city or when Rain had to embark on work-related journeys.
It appeared to be a practical and reassuring way to ensure that they wouldn't be left entirely on their own and to maintain strong family ties despite the physical distance that would decrease significantly.
"Let me show you all my latest projects," Rain said while smirking.
