"Hey, Tabibito, come to the back after you finish your food, okay?"
Mualani leans in to whisper to you while serving food to your table, her breath tickling your ear and neck slightly. Paimon, Kinich, Kachina, and the others doesn't seem to notice. But Mavuika and Xilonen give you a knowing glance.
You give Paimon some of your portion and finish what's left quick. Paimon wonders what's up, but you tell Paimon you're going to help Mualani with the clean up as thanks for the party. Paimon says she wants to help to, but you tell Paimon to just enjoy the food. Mavuika sidles up to Paimon to give her more food and gives you a knowing wink, telling you not to make Mualani wait. You make your way into the kitchen, where Mualani is waiting. She's preparing some sort of drink.
"Wow, that was quick! You didn't need to rush. Oh wait, did you give your portion to Paimon? That explains it, hahaha!"
Mualani seems surprised at your arrival. She pours the drink she was preparing into two cups, and gives you one.
"Here, drink up. To Natlan's hero! Cheers!"
You clink your cup with hers, and drink. The cherry red liquid is sweet, almost sickeningly so. Your body starts to feel warmer and more pleasant. But this isn't the feeling of alcohol. You look at Mualani, who's been staring at you for a while now. When you make eye contact, she quickly downs the rest of her cup. You do the same with yours.
"How is it?" Mualani asks you, a hint of bashfulness in her motions.
It's sweet and warms you up, you reply.
"Oh, that's good. It's working as intended then, hehe."
She draws close to you and leans her head on your shoulder. She's always been very friendly, but somehow right now it feels different.
"Hey, Tabibito. You're a hero of Natlan who helped us even when you didn't need to, and everyone already recognizes you. Mavuika and the tribe chiefs already gave you rewards."