After some time, Tiriana's mom returns to the sitting room carrying a tray filled with several small ceramic cups and a kettle. She sets the tray on the table and pours the contents of the kettle into each cup.
The liquid is a deep green color, releasing a refined herbal aroma into the air.
"Thank you for your kindness, Mom," I say, respectfully taking one of the cups.
Pico follows suit and takes a cup as well. Then Aleena picks up hers.
"Oh, look, Mom. He's already calling you Mom!" Aleena says sheepishly before taking a deep breath of her tea.
"Oh dear, don't flatter me. You little brat, coming home after several years!" Aleena's mom says with a small pout as she reaches for the kettle to pour herself some tea.
"I'm sorry, Mom. I had my reasons. By the way, where are Dad and Maya?" Aleena asks.
"Your dad went out this morning... you know, to the top of the mountain. As for Maya, she went to school. She's currently writing her final high school exams," Aleena's mom reveals.
