GameDev Reincarnated into His Own Creation

Vol 2 - Chapter 26.2: Multithreading

"Nothing important, Young Master. Just routine messages from Elnor that Lady Halen requested." "Monthly reports and such."

"Were you looking for something, Master Vel?" Hileya asked, already moving toward the pantry. "I was about to bring up fresh towels for your bath."

"That's considerate of you," Vel remarked, stepping further into the kitchen. The aroma of fresh herbs and butter mixed with fruit baskets made his stomach growl. "Actually, I came with an unusual request. I was wondering if you could help me gather some ingredients."

The kitchen was larger than he thought, with copper pots hanging from ceiling hooks and various ingredients organized on wooden shelves. A few other servants worked at the far end, paying them little attention.

"Of course, Young Master," Hileya responded eagerly, her shoulders relaxing slightly as the conversation shifted away from her mysterious visitor. "What did you have in mind?"

Vel leaned against the counter, excitement replacing his earlier fatigue.

"I used to enjoy this frozen treat back home," he said with growing enthusiasm. "It's simple, really. We blend fruits with milk and honey, then freeze the mixture until it's thick but still soft enough to eat."

Hileya tilted her head, curiosity brightening her eyes. "How fascinating!" Hileya's genuine enthusiasm made Vel smile. "What fruits would you like, Master Vel?"

Soon they had gathered berries, milk, and honey. Vel mixed the ingredients in a wooden bowl.

"Now for the magic—literally," Vel said with a grin.

He placed his palm against the bottom and concentrated, channeling a gentle stream of ice magic. As Hileya stirred, the mixture gradually transformed into a creamy, semi-frozen dessert.

When they tasted their creation, Hileya's eyes widened with delight. "This is wonderful!" Her shoulders finally lost their rigid posture.

Vel watched Hileya savor another spoonful, her genuine enjoyment stirring a thought in him.

"You know, I think one day you could make this on your own," he said.

Hileya looked up, a mixture of hope and uncertainty in her expression. "You really think so? After what we discussed before about my... potential?"

Vel's expression shifted, guilt crossing his features. "About that... I'm sorry, Hileya. I promised I'd ask Instructor Lyvenna about ways to help you, but with everything at the Academy, I completely forgot to follow up."

"Master Vel, please don't apologize," Hileya said gently, her voice understanding. "I know my position here. You have much more important matters to attend to."

Vel watched Hileya arrange the ingredients with careful movements, her words echoing in his mind. Something he couldn't quite name finally demanded attention. All the promises he'd made. Hileya's magical training, finding Clara, dealing with Lysithea's harassment of Celia.

So many confident assurances. But what had he actually accomplished beyond the talking?

His expression grew distant, lost in the uncomfortable realization.

Hileya tilted her head, curiosity replacing her earlier understanding. "Master Vel?"

Vel blinked, snapping back to the present. "Sorry, I... let's make more of this for Celia," he said, reaching for additional ingredients. "She'll appreciate something cool after training."