Taking a delicate sip of water to cleanse her palate, Ayaka prepared herself to delve into one of the diverse onigiri assortments spread before her. As the taste of the succulent salmon filled her mouth, her attention remained steadfast, not wavering from Yijun. She was ready to respond once he concluded his words. After swallowing her food and taking another sip of water, she leaned back in her chair, her thoughts drifting to the intriguing circumstances she now found herself in.
It was an unusual situation, wasn't it? A woman surrounded by so many children, caring for them as if they were her own flesh and blood, fiercely protective of their well-being. Ayaka understood why Yijun might be curious. However, she had no secrets to conceal regarding this matter, and she was more than willing to share how she had become a mother to these children.
"They are not my biological children," Ayaka began, her voice tinged with warmth and sincerity. "Some of them came to me from the unforgiving streets, seeking refuge. Others had fled from abusive situations, abandoned by those who should have cared for them, and a few were rescued from the clutches of enslavement. Their beginnings were marked by hardship, but now they have better lives. I am their mother, providing them with protection, nourishment, clothing, education in various life skills, and most importantly, love. They come from different races, from various corners of the world, not just the northern region, and it seems I gain a new child almost every day."
A gentle smile played on Ayaka's lips as she took another bite of her onigiri, her heart swelling with pride as she spoke of her beloved charges. They were the epitome of innocence in a harsh world, and they depended on her for trust, protection, and shelter from those who were meant to safeguard them.
"For the most part, they are well-behaved, but there are a few who can be a bit...rough around the edges," she continued a glint of amusement in her eyes. "Up here in the north, the locals know who they belong to, hence the masks. It's a story for another time unless you're curious and would like to hear it now."
A light, melodious chuckle escaped her lips as she deftly redirected the conversation back to Yijun.
"So, Yijun, do you belong to a guild? What rank do you hold? It appears that guilds hold great significance in Fiore, and its people value their hierarchy."