Dough Lift

The day starts like any other. You wake at 5 a.m. and head to the village to gather the essentials: fresh spring water, imported sugar, and ripe mountain fruit.

On the way back, you pass the scorched ruins of the place you once called home. The sight stirs painful memories of loss but also reminds you how lucky you are to have survived.

Back at Hanabi Manor, as you set up for the day, a sharp slap on your backside sends you sprawling to the floor.

"Good morning, little one. Ready to bake?"

You glance up to see Tsumire smirking down at you, her usual bratty grin in place. Even now, it’s hard to believe this muscular giant is the mastermind behind the island’s most delicate pastries.

"Come on, get moving! Fire up the oven. You know this old lady can’t do the heavy lifting," she says with a dramatic cough—half real, half pure guilt trip.