Lucan loved the stew Maris made and discovered it was filled with magical energy—surely Maris's saintly powers.
From that moment on, Lucan decided to let Maris handle all the housework and cooking.
Lucan found something amusing: in her parents' house, Maris also did the housework and cooking, but she saw it as torture and detested it. Yet, here she was, doing the same tasks but feeling grateful and happy.
It really shows that kind words and actions are enough to make others feel appreciated, and those who feel appreciated will do their best to repay kindness.
Lucan understood that the main reason for this change was that Maris came from abusive parents. To her, not getting beaten and receiving decent food and clothing were the greatest acts of kindness Lucan could offer.
Regardless, the stew was delicious, and Lucan enjoyed it. Maris also agreed to cook for him from now on.
"Let's go and buy some things we need," Lucan said.
"Huh?" Maris looked at him, surprised.
"Since you're going to live here, you need to have some basic things. For example, clothes?" Lucan said.
"Um, you don't have to. I'm okay as I am now," Maris said timidly, shaking her head. "I don't need clothes or anything, as long as I can stay here," she said very quietly.
Lucan smiled inwardly. Here's a chance to earn some favorable points.
"Maris," he stood up and sat in front of her as she was on a chair. He held her hands. "You have the talent to learn holy arts. I'm going to teach you, so in a sense, you're my disciple. As your master, it's my responsibility to ensure you live a good life, with beautiful clothes, tasty food, and a lovely home. Accept whatever I give you because it's worth it."
Lucan looked at her and saw her eyes welling up with tears. Success, he thought. Now Maris will never forget these words. It took me just a second to come up with them, but these words will stay with her forever and benefit me endlessly.
Lucan smiled at Maris. "So, let's go and get you some beautiful clothes."
Maris held his hand and nodded quickly, tears in her eyes.
Lucan, holding her hand, walked to the door but stopped.
"You can't leave the house wearing just my shirt," Lucan said, looking back at her.
Maris was only wearing his shirt, with no clothes underneath.
Lucan was glad that when he was coming back, he had also bought a plain dress for her.