Aiden’s stomach growled, the rumbling noise echoing slightly in the vastness of the tower. He chuckled, a bit embarrassed, but Regis merely smiled, seemingly unfazed.

“Forgive me, Master Aiden. I should have anticipated that you would be hungry after such a day of revelations.” Regis gave a slight bow. “Allow me to take you to the dining room.”

Before Aiden could protest, Regis led him through another series of corridors, each as grand as the last. The architecture was a seamless blend of magic and elegance, with arched ceilings that glittered faintly, walls lined with ancient tapestries, and chandeliers that flickered with soft, blue light. The Castle seemed to shift around them, yet the path always felt natural, like it was guiding them to their next destination.

Finally, they arrived at the dining room, and Aiden’s breath caught in his throat. The room was enormous—longer and grander than any he’d ever seen. The table was made of dark, polished wood, easily capable of seating dozens, though only two chairs sat at the head. The high ceiling was adorned with a beautiful mosaic of stars, shifting and twinkling as if they were alive. Massive windows overlooked the vast world of Astralis, the landscape bathed in the light of its setting sun.

Aiden ran his hand over the smooth surface of the table, his fingers tracing the delicate engravings on its edge. “This is incredible.”

Regis gave a knowing smile. “The dining room has not seen much use in recent years. It is good to see it filled with life again.”

Without another word, Regis excused himself to the adjacent kitchen. Aiden wasn’t sure what to expect. How could Regis make something in a place this grand if he was the only one in the Castle? Was the kitchen even stocked?

Minutes passed, and Aiden’s curiosity only grew. He gazed around the room, marveling at the quiet splendor, when Regis returned with a large, silver platter. As Regis set the platter down in front of him, Aiden’s eyes widened.

On the plate was something that could only be described as otherworldly. The dish was a delicate arrangement of shimmering, translucent spheres that glowed faintly, surrounded by thin, spiral-like roots in shades of violet and gold. Tiny flakes of something glittering—like powdered gems—were sprinkled over the top, and the aroma that rose from the plate was rich and fragrant, unlike anything Aiden had ever smelled before. It was earthy and sweet, with an undertone of spice that made his mouth water.

“What... is this?” Aiden asked, staring at the dish, fascinated by the colors and shapes.

Regis smiled, pleased by the reaction. “This is a dish made from the fruits and roots of the Galtora tree, which grows only in the hidden valleys of Astralis. The translucent spheres are its fruit, called Solara Orbs, known for their unique flavor and texture. The spiral roots are Eledor Roots, known to enhance the natural sweetness of any dish. And the flakes? That’s powdered Crystelfire Blossom—a rare plant that only blooms under moonlight and adds a touch of spice.”

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Aiden blinked, trying to wrap his head around the ingredients. “And… you made this in just a few minutes?”

Regis chuckled softly, pleased with Aiden’s awe. “Indeed, Master Aiden. Though I am but one, I possess certain... advantages. One of my most useful abilities is my control over space and time. Time, as you perceive it, is somewhat flexible within the Castle’s boundaries. What feels like moments to you may stretch longer for me, allowing me to prepare meals or complete tasks more efficiently.”

Aiden was speechless for a moment. Space-time manipulation? He was beginning to understand just how vast the abilities of this place were. His gaze returned to the glowing dish in front of him, and he leaned forward, curiosity getting the better of him.

“Well, here goes nothing.” He took a bite, the flavors exploding on his tongue.

It was unlike anything he had ever tasted. The Solara Orbs were soft but firm, releasing a burst of sweetness with a hint of citrus and honey, while the Eledor Roots added a light, earthy crunch that balanced the dish perfectly. The flakes of Crystelfire Blossom brought a subtle, warming spice, making the entire experience complex and incredibly satisfying.

“This is... amazing,” Aiden said between bites. He hadn’t realized how hungry he was until now.

“I am glad you find it to your liking,” Regis said with a slight bow.

As Aiden continued to eat, a thought crossed his mind. He looked up at Regis, who stood nearby, watching attentively.

“You’re not going to eat?” Aiden asked, surprised.

Regis straightened, a formal tone creeping back into his voice. “It is not customary for a butler to dine with his master, Master Aiden. My duty is to serve.”

Aiden raised an eyebrow. “You’re not just a butler. You’re family. You’ve been with my grandfather for years—you’re as much a part of this Castle as anyone. And besides, families eat together, right?”

For a moment, Regis seemed taken aback, the ever-present calm in his expression shifting to one of quiet reflection. Then, with a small, grateful smile, he nodded. “Very well, Master Aiden. If you insist.”

Regis sat down beside him, and together, they shared the meal. Despite the grandeur of the setting and the magic surrounding them, there was something comforting in the simplicity of sitting down and eating with another person. Aiden found himself relaxing more than he had since arriving.

But as they neared the end of the meal, Regis suddenly froze, his eyes narrowing slightly as he turned his head toward the windows. His expression shifted—calm, but alert.

“Regis?” Aiden asked, noticing the change. “What is it?”

Regis remained still for a moment, his gaze distant. “There is... something outside the Castle,” he said quietly, his voice laced with caution. “A presence. One that is unfamiliar.”

Aiden’s stomach twisted, the warmth of the meal replaced by a sudden surge of unease. “Is it dangerous?”

Regis turned to him, the glint in his black eyes returning, but now with an edge of resolve. “Not to worry, Master Aiden. We will soon find out.”