Hearing the words "Tree of Knowledge" and "library," Robin's eyes instantly lit up, as though new life had been breathed into her, and she seemed to glow.
She straightened her small frame, her voice brimming with confidence and pride:
"Of course, Kakarot! I'm studying under Dr. Clover at the Tree of Knowledge right now. Before long, I'll be able to qualify as an archaeologist!
"I know the place really well. I can take you to find the books you want to read. Dr. Clover is very fond of me, so he definitely won't stop us!"
Seeing the confidence on Robin's face, Kakarot and Lina both smiled with relief.
This was how a child should be, with light in her eyes and confidence in her heart.
"Great! Then it's settled."
Kakarot smiled and said, "You should eat too, before the food gets cold."
Perhaps she had found something she could do, or perhaps she had felt everyone's sincerity and kindness,
but this time, little Robin did not hesitate. She picked up her spoon and began eating in big mouthfuls.
The sweet mashed pumpkin slid down her throat, soft and warming; the crisp shrimp cakes carried a faint milky fragrance, growing more flavorful with every bite; the tender fish melted in her mouth, full of the fresh taste of the sea...
The delicious food filled her stomach and seemed to fill the empty corners of her heart little by little, giving her a sense of satisfaction and security unlike anything she had ever felt.
The hall was filled with laughter as the companions chatted over their food. Rouge occasionally exchanged a few words with the female companions beside her, a gentle smile on her face;
after eating her fill, Robin listened curiously as everyone talked about strange and fascinating things from different