After savoring the last morsels of my meal and relishing delightful conversation with Sofia and Madam Ruth, the hour had come for me to make my way back to the guild lodge. Normally, I would reserve the following day to plan my upcoming journeys, yet this time, I had made a resolute decision to partake in the city's Founding Festival, upholding the promise I had made to Sofia. The notion of future celebrations also crossed my mind, envisioning a day when I could escort my dear mother and brothers to a nearby festival.

I continued with my usual routine, conducting my merchant duties and enjoying my lunch and dinner at Dragon's Paw everyday. On the fourth day, I was delighted to see that the master had finally made an appearance, serving the patrons once again. We offered our heartfelt congratulations and the tavern transformed into a joyful gathering, resembling a small banquet held in honor of his recovery.

The day of the festival had finally arrived, and as expected, the tavern remained closed so that the helpers could fully enjoy the festivities. True to my promise, I eagerly awaited Sofia's arrival at the tavern. Before leaving, I took a moment to speak with the Master, who still bore the signs of fatigue and frailty. Regrettably, Master and Madam shall not be able to join us in the festivities, for his weakened state restricts their participation.

"Please, take some more time to rest. It seems you haven't fully recovered yet. I will take care of Sofia during the event. You need not worry," I reassured him.

"I understand. I entrust her to your care, Takahiko. Sofia, my dear, please do not trouble Takahiko too much, alright?" the Master responded, his concern evident.

"Oh, Father, I'm not a child anymore! I will behave and be a good girl. Right, Takahiko?" Sofia chimed in, displaying a hint of determination.

Their exchange brought a smile to my face. "Of course, you'll be just fine," I replied, amused by their interaction. "Alright, then. Let's be on our way. I promise to bring Sofia back before midnight."

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"Have a wonderful time, both of you," Madam said warmly as we stepped out into the lively plaza.

Sofia was donning the dress I had gifted her on her thirteenth birthday. As we walked side by side, I couldn't help but notice how she had grown taller. Just a year ago, she barely reached my waist, but now her height has shot up to near my chest. She cheerfully walked beside me, unable to contain her excitement.

"How do I look?" She asked.

"Gorgeous!" I said "It was only a year since I saw you below my waist, now you're at my chest. I'm truly surprised to see how fast you grow. I'm glad the dress I picked matches perfectly with your current height," I remarked, smiling at Sofia. She grinned with joy, twirling around to display the dress's elegant design.

sofia-dress [https://img.wattpad.com/940f74e520ab38de9ed7e74474769792bd9abd48/68747470733a2f2f73332e616d617a6f6e6177732e636f6d2f776174747061642d6d656469612d736572766963652f53746f7279496d6167652f523073313768742d754a44464f513d3d2d313335383836313431322e31373737336563643063363264306361363734383138303431332e706e67?s=fit&w=1280&h=1280]

"Once again, thank you for your gift, Takahiko. I didn't expect you to remember my birthday amidst my father's illness, but I'm really happy," Sofia expressed her gratitude with a warm smile.

"Don't mention it. I'm also glad to see your father recovering. It's just a shame he couldn't join us," I replied, a tinge of sympathy in my voice.

"Oh, don't be silly. He needs more rest than ever. I'm still concerned because he often experiences pain in his leg, but he tries to hide it and pretend nothing is wrong," Sofia shared her worries.

"I suppose he doesn't want you and your mother to be overly worried," I empathize.

"Thanks to the herbal tea you gave him, he appears more relaxed now. I'm truly grateful. How can I ever repay your kindness, Takahiko?" Sofia asked earnestly.

"Please, there's no need for repayment. As I've mentioned before, your father's kindness once saved me when I was on the brink of starvation. What I've done is incomparable. Besides, I consider your family as my own, so it's only natural for me to lend a helping hand," I reassured her with a smile and gently stroked her hair. She seemed to be enjoying it immensely, like a contented cat.

"Oh, those are my friends that I told you about. Hey!" Sofia waved her hand and called out to a group of two girls who appeared to be around the same age as her.