Gaia Chronicles: The Integral Saga

The courtyard had shifted into a lighter, warmer mood after the intense fire-and-ice clash earlier. Now, music floated through the air, and floral garlands trailed from the canopies above. Where the morning was flame and rivalry, the afternoon was sweetness and soul.

In the eastern pavilion—decorated in flowing pastel banners—stood Elaine Synthesis 7, her blond hair tied into a ponytail, her apron embroidered with swirling wind patterns. She stood beside a small prep station humming softly to herself.

"Alright, let's make something that makes people smile."

Today, she would serve Whirlwind Fruit Tarts, a wind-chilled pastry filled with hand-whipped cream and layered fruit slices spun into petal shapes.

🍓 Guests from the Quiet Side

She wasn't alone.

Across from her, curious and calm, stood Aria Synthesis 6 and Alice Synthesis 9—both rarely seen at public events, and yet, here they were. Aria sipped from a mug of floral tea. Alice stood with arms folded, quietly watching Elaine's movements.

"You're really doing this… publicly," Aria said.

Elaine smiled. "Cyg might pass through here, and he loves cold pastries."

Alice raised an eyebrow. "You're cooking for Cyg?"

Elaine turned away, flustered. "N-no! I'm cooking for… everyone."

Alice's soft smirk was barely visible.

🧁 The Art of Airy Delight

Elaine carefully layered the tart crusts, hands glowing faintly with wind-ether. Her control was masterful—keeping the ingredients crisp, light, and chilled even under the sun.

She piped the cream in smooth spirals and called upon Aetheris, her Rapier Divine Artifact, to channel a breeze that spun the sliced fruits into perfect rosettes. The crowd watched in amazement.

A small group of Integral Knights arrived to watch:

Aulus Synthesis 23, the silent earthbound sentinel

Lucas Synthesis 22, arms crossed, smiling slightly

Sophia Synthesis 25, analyzing every movement as if it were a science experiment

Ali Synthesis 13, chuckling with a fatherly air

"Elaine's cooking?" Lucas murmured. "Didn't know she had that in her."

"She's always had that warmth," Ali replied. "She just doesn't show it unless someone's watching."

His glance slid to where Cyg had entered quietly behind the booth, unseen.

🍃 A Moment in the Wind

As Elaine presented her finished tarts, a hush fell over the area.

She looked up—and saw him.

Cyg. Arms behind his back. No expression. But watching.

She blinked, heart fluttering. "W-Would you… like one?"

He approached. "What's the probability this was made for me?"

Elaine almost choked. "Wh-What?!"

He picked up a tart. Took a bite.

His eyes didn't change—but he said, "This is… efficient. The cooling method. It's optimal. I will remember this technique."

Elaine blinked. "T-That's it?"

He hesitated. Then added, "And… it was good."

Her smile bloomed like spring.

As he walked away, Sophia leaned over and whispered, "I've never seen your ether spike that high."

Elaine just giggled, holding her tray to her chest.

It wasn't about winning… it was about the joy he felt, even if just for a moment.