The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the bustling market square. Stalls lined the streets, filled with vibrant goods from all corners of the land. The air was thick with the scent of spices, fresh fruits, and baked bread, mingling with the sounds of merchants hawking their wares and children laughing as they played.
Lucan walked beside Maris, taking in the lively scene around them. Maris, on the other hand, was a vision of delight. Her light pink hair, tied up in loose waves that cascaded down her back, caught the sunlight, giving her an almost ethereal glow.
Her light blue eyes sparkled with excitement as she eagerly pulled Lucan from one stall to the next, her slender figure moving gracefully through the crowd. Dressed in a simple yet elegant white gown that accentuated her delicate frame, Maris exuded an air of purity and warmth.
Her laughter, soft and melodious, blended with the surrounding noises, creating a harmonious melody that seemed to brighten the atmosphere around them. Even in the busy market, she stood out, her presence radiating a gentle charm that drew the attention of passersby.
"Look at these, Lucan-sama!" Maris exclaimed, stopping at a stall that displayed a variety of delicate, hand-carved wooden animals. She picked up a small fox, its intricate details capturing her attention. Her slender, pale fingers traced the curves of the wooden figure with care. "Isn't it adorable? Just like the stuffed toy you gave me."
Lucan glanced at the fox, then back at Maris. "It is... You should buy it."
Maris smiled. She held the fox up to the light, examining it further before placing it back on the table. "So," she turned to Lucan and grabbed his arm, looking into his eyes, "Why don't you buy it and give it to me as a gift?"
Lucan chuckled and paid the merchant, tucking the small wooden fox into the satchel that hung at her side. As they moved on, her attention was caught by a nearby fruit stall. The merchant, a plump woman with rosy cheeks, waved them over with a broad smile.
"Fresh berries, my dear! Sweet as honey and just as tempting!" the merchant called out, her voice full of warmth.
Maris approached the stall, her eyes widening in delight at the sight of the vibrant berries. She reached out, gently picking up a handful of the dark red fruits, their skins glistening in the sunlight.
"Would you like some, Lucan-sama?" she asked. "They look delicious."
"If you'd like them, we can get some."
Maris grinned, her smile lighting up her face as she handed a few coins to the merchant. The woman chuckled as she handed Maris a small basket filled with the berries.
"Here you go, dearie," the merchant said with a wink. "And a little extra, for such a lovely young couple."
Maris blushed at the compliment, though she said nothing to correct the woman. Instead, she turned back to Lucan, holding up a berry. "Try one," she urged, her eyes bright with anticipation.
Lucan hesitated for a moment before leaning in, allowing Maris to place the berry in his mouth. The sweetness of the fruit burst on his tongue, and he nodded in approval. "It's good," he admitted.
Maris beamed, pleased that he liked it. She took a berry for herself, savoring the flavor before offering the basket to Lucan. He took it from her, carrying it as they continued to wander through the market.
As they walked, Maris's attention was constantly drawn to the various stalls and vendors. She would pause to admire a piece of jewelry, marvel at a bolt of brightly colored fabric, or simply take in the lively atmosphere with a contented sigh.
At one point, they passed a stall selling beautifully crafted glass ornaments. Maris stopped, her gaze immediately drawn to a delicate pendant shaped like a teardrop. It was made of pale blue glass, with a single silver thread running through the center.
"Oh, Lucan-sama, look at this one!" she exclaimed, reaching out to gently touch the pendant. Her fingers brushed the cool glass.
Lucan looked at the pendant, then at Maris. "It suits you."
Maris blushed, her cheeks turning a soft shade of pink. She bit her lip, glancing back at the pendant. "I'm not sure I should get it," she said hesitantly. "It's so beautiful, but…"
Lucan reached out, placing his hand over hers as it rested on the pendant. "If you like it, you should have it."
Maris looked up at him, her heart skipping a beat at the seriousness in his tone. A small smile tugged at her lips. "Alright."
Lucan handed the merchant the coins, and the pendant was carefully wrapped and placed in Maris's hands. She held it close to her chest, as if it were a precious treasure, and gave Lucan a grateful smile.
"Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the noise of the market.
They continued their stroll, the pendant safely tucked away in Maris's satchel. As they passed a group of children playing with wooden swords, Maris paused, watching them for a moment before moving on.
As they neared the end of the market, Maris's steps began to slow. She turned to Lucan. "Lucan-sama, can we stay here a little longer?" she asked, her voice hesitant. "I don't want this day to end just yet."
Lucan looked down at her, his expression softening. He knew Maris had brought him here to take his mind off Rina and Julia's incident. He was happy to spend time here, so why not spend a little more?
"Of course," he said, his voice gentle. "We can stay as long as you like."
Maris smiled, relief flooding her features. She reached out, taking his hand in hers. "Thank you, Lucan-sama."
They wandered through the market for a while longer, the sun beginning to dip low in the sky. Maris led them to a small fountain at the center of the square, where they sat down on the stone ledge. The sound of the water trickling into the pool was soothing, and Maris leaned against Lucan's shoulder, content.
For a long time, they sat in silence before ending their trip and heading back.