By 6 p.m., after the Honkai Impact-themed exhibition (referred to as the "Houkai Expo") concluded, the group—Theresa, Kiana, and the others—reluctantly left the venue, still buzzing with excitement. They carried limited-edition Houkai manga and plushies, souvenirs from their fun-filled day.
Around 6:30 p.m., they arrived at the largest shopping mall in the Far East for a shopping spree.
It wasn't until nearly 10 p.m. that they finally returned to St. Freya Academy, their arms laden with bags.
...
"Woo-hoo! We're finally back! Today was so much fun! But, Mei, I'm kinda hungry after all that walking," Kiana cheered as she spotted the academy gates, her energy undimmed—until a loud growl from her stomach betrayed her.
Clutching her empty belly, Kiana turned to Raiden Mei with puppy-dog eyes.
"Alright, I'll cook for you as soon as we get back," Mei reassured her before addressing the group. "We've been out all day, and no one's eaten yet. Why don't you all come to our dorm? I'll prepare a meal for everyone."
With the academy cafeteria long closed by 10 p.m., the others, equally aware of their growling stomachs, readily agreed.
Wu Tong was no exception. Though he had the "Gourmet Tablecloth"—a lazy person's miracle tool—he was still curious about the culinary skills of Raiden Mei, the "official cook" endorsed by the Mihoyo universe. This invitation was the perfect chance to taste her cooking.
After agreeing, everyone first returned to their own rooms to drop off their purchases before gathering at the trio's dorm.
...
"Welcome, everyone! Auntie Himeko, Big Sis Theresa, Class Monitor, Wu Tong..."
The moment they stepped inside, they were greeted by the ever-energetic "Husky" Kiana, who stood at the door, cheerfully calling out to each of them.
"Kiana! Do! Not! Call! Me! Auntie!" Himeko's voice was sharp, each word punctuated with irritation. "And your homework assignment is doubled today!"
Kiana's face fell. "Aww, nooo—!"
Witnessing Himeko's glare, she knew there was no escaping the extra work. Her dramatic wail echoed through the room.
"Come on, Himeko, don't take it so hard. You are at that age, after all," Theresa teased, clearly enjoying the chaos.
Himeko shot her a sidelong glance, unfazed by the obvious bait. "My dear Principal, need I remind you? You're older than I am."
"You—! Hmph! At least I look young!" Theresa huffed, her cheeks puffing up in indignation.
"Ah, yes, yes. So very young," Himeko replied, her eyes drifting pointedly to Theresa's petite frame, her expression dripping with mock pity.
"Hmph!"
Thoroughly defeated by Himeko's gaze, Theresa could only turn away with a pout.
Is she all bark and no bite? Wu Tong mused, watching Theresa's sulking demeanor.
Fu Hua and the others quickly stepped in to mediate, and soon, the group was laughing and chatting again.
...
"The chicken soup is here~!"
With Mei's announcement, the final dish was served, completing the lavish spread on the dining table.
Eight dishes and two soups:
From Shenzhou (China): Mapo Tofu and Braised Eggplant.
From the Far East: Salmon Sushi and Sashimi.
From Russia: Russian-style Grilled Meat and Tomato Pork Tenderloin.
From the United States: Beef Stewed in Red Wine and Roast Turkey.
The two soups were: a savory chicken broth and a sweet vegetable soup.
...
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