Brew 24

Rook sat quietly in Emery’s lap as she wiped away tears. Her heart felt heavy hearing the story of how Aria and Seraphina had spoken about her grandfather. For so long she’d only felt abandoned by him, but now? Now she was beginning to see the man he truly was.

Reading the grimoire—and hearing the stories Rook shared—made her realise Blaise had helped so many. He had built bridges, not walls. Still, Emery couldn’t deny how he had made her feel growing up. Misunderstood. Unwanted.

A little bit similar to how Aria felt.

When her magic had first awakened, she’d been so excited. She had imagined her grandfather mentoring her, guiding her. But instead, he had sent her to the Aetheris Vale Magical Academy. No discussion. No support. Just tuition paid and the occasional birthday gift or holiday card.

When the bullying began at the academy, she had no one. No parents. No mentor. No comforting letters.

“I wanted him to care,” Emery whispered, hugging Rook tighter. “Just like he cared for them.”

Rook pressed his soft fur into her neck, his whiskers tickling her skin until she giggled through the tears. “You are so much like my mistress,” he murmured. “It’s almost like she’s here with me again.”

“Rook,” Emery cried continuing to hold him. “Tell me more stories about her? I want to know all that I can.”

“Of course, my little mistress,” Rook chuckled, rubbing his nose against Emery’s.

Hanaki rushed over with a cup of tea, placing it carefully on the table beside Emery. Remember when she has said

“You have quite the caring apprentice,” Rook commented, watching the boy retreat.

Emery smiled, wiping her tears. “Yeah. He reminds me a bit of myself.” She looked toward Hanaki as he busied himself clearing dishes. “No parents. Magic with no guidance. How could I not take him in?”

By the counter, Toriyami watched the scene with a fond smile. As Hanaki passed him, Toriyami wrapped an arm around his shoulders. “She might be overbearing,” he said in a low voice, “spontaneous, and absolutely reckless…”

Hanaki chuckled as his eyes teared up, holding the plate tightly.

“But she’s the most caring person you’ll ever meet,” Toriyami hummed.

“She’s been through a lot, hasn’t she?” Hanaki whispered, trying to not disturb Emery and Rook’s conversation.

“More than you know.” Toriyami nodded. “But she has us now.”

As if on cue, Chu scurried over, puffing out his little chest to join the conversation.

Hanaki laughed, bending to lift him gently. “And she’s always had you too,” he said, stroking the hedgehog’s back.

Toriyami chuckled as he scratched Chu between the ears. “And now, we’re one crazy family,” he joked. “There’s no doubt about that.”

Emery approached with Rook perched on her shoulder, her eyes puffy from the crying. “Hey! No forming secret clubs without me,” she teased. Chu puffed up in mock indignation.

“You are certainly funny, little hedgehog,” Rook chuckled, hopping gracefully onto the counter. “Though sadly, I won’t be around much longer.”

Hanaki’s face fell. “You’re leaving?” he whined.

Emery sighed, knowing it was her fault. “The catalyst that summoned Rook cracked. The spell only worked partway. Once the full moon wanes, he’ll return to the spirit world.”

“It was only ever a temporary visit,” Rook added gently. “But even so, spending time with all of you has been a gift.”

Toriyami looked out the window, sunlight warming the blooming flowers in the garden. “Well then. How about we make today special?” He grinned turning back to everyone, giving Emery a knowing look.

“A picnic!” Emery clapped, brightening up through her red face.

Everyone sprang into action. Toriyami prepared sandwiches. Emery brewed tea. Hanaki gathered blankets and a basket.

They walked the old path toward the hilltop overlooking the forest. Chu perched atop the blanket in the basket, while Rook trotted proudly at Emery’s side. Hanaki and Toriyami followed behind at a relaxed pace.

As the hill came into view, Hanaki sprinted ahead. Rook joined him in a mock race, their laughter carrying on the breeze.

Emery smiled, gesturing for Toriyami to walk beside her. He did, taking the heavy basket from her hands.

“Thank you,” she said softly, looking up to him.

“For what?” Toriyami smirked, secretly knowing what she was going to say.

“For everything.” She placed a hand on his arm. “I think… there’s still a lot I need to learn.”

Toriyami chuckled. “A lot to learn.” He teased.

“I’m hoping—with you, Hanaki, and Chu—I’m finally ready to tackle it,” Emery let a single tear fall as she watched her family play on top of the hill.

“Well, you’ve still got a grimoire to finish translating.” He nodded toward the hilltop. “Let’s start there.”

“Together?” Emery held out her pinky finger.

Toriyami gave a low laugh at the childish gesture but linked his pinky with hers.

“Together.”