Slow and Steady (Part 1)

It was early morning in Osata, and the city was alive with the hum of people preparing for the challenges of a new day. Among them was Hiro, who had been diligently training under Rayna's watchful eye for the past few weeks. His mornings were dedicated to physical training, while his nights were spent honing his mind. His two tutors, the elven sisters Rayna and Ai, allowed no room for complacency.

“You leave yourself open far too often.” Rayna observed, striking his torso with a wooden sword.

Hiro gasped in pain, struggling to catch his breath. Seizing the moment of his weakness, Rayna swung at him again, but Hiro managed to scramble out of the way, raising his sword in a defensive stance. His quick reaction brought a smirk to Rayna's face.

“Not bad,” she remarked. “Despite being short of breath from my previous attack,” she continued, twirling her sword with a flick of her wrist, “you actually managed to push through and avoid my blade.” She charged at him once more.

Hiro sprang to his feet, narrowly dodging her strike. Determination etched across his face, sweat trickled down from his brow to his chin. Rayna's speed was incredible, almost supernatural.

Rayna smiled, taking her stance again, “You know you can initiate, too, right?”

“Yeah, right.” he grumbled, “I know better than to just rush at you like that.”

Rayna chuckled, exuding a palpable confidence. Hiro knew his only viable strategy was evasion and running. He could at best parry one of her strikes before being outmatched. Day after day, since their sparring began, Hiro ended up bruised and in need of healing after the relentless onslaught from Rayna’s wooden blade. Determined to change the pattern, he decided to embrace her advice about thinking outside the box.

‘If your opponent is stronger, you should trick them into losing,’ he reminded himself her words.

Though it seemed like a shameful tactic, Hiro understood, as Rayna taught, that any strategy capable of saving his life was valid.

But Rayna's quick reflexes ended his momentary success; she knocked the wooden sword from his hands with a deft strike from her weapon's handle. Just as she assumed victory, Hiro pulled a small wooden knife from his pocket, aiming for her wrist. She gasped in surprise as it made contact, causing her wooden sword to drop from her grip.

Reacting swiftly, Rayna used Hiro’s momentum against him, grabbing his arm and throwing him over her shoulder to the ground. She swiftly pinned him down, sitting on top of him and securing both of his hands to the floor.

“Ugh… my back feels like it’s been split in half…” Hiro groaned weakly as he lay on the floor.

“Don’t be such a baby. I didn’t throw you that hard.” Rayna teased him in return.

Hiro couldn’t help but muster a faint, awkward smile as he accepted the sting of failure. Rayna, beaming with satisfaction, extended a hand and helped him back to his feet.

“That was amazing! You caught me completely off guard with that knife. Good job!” she cheered, giving him a hearty smack on the back.

Hiro yelped and winced in pain, a subtle creak emanating from his back. Rayna’s eyes widened in concern, and she quickly covered her mouth, her expression shifting to one of guilt.

“Ah, umm.. sorry about that.” she apologized, her voice faltering slightly.

Hiro shot her a glare before letting out a resigned sigh, “It’s fine…”

They both made their way to the nearby table, collapsing into their seats and eagerly gulping down their water. Rayna had been invigorated by the responsibility of training Hiro, as if this new purpose had revitalized her spirit. Her enthusiasm was palpable, and her joy at the progress made was evident.

“That hits the spot!” Rayna exclaimed, setting her empty cup down on the table with a satisfied thud.

“You can say that again. Thank you for today; I’ve learned a lot.” Hiro responded, his voice still a bit raspy from the day’s exertions.

Rayna smiled at Hiro with genuine appreciation before springing to her feet and approaching him with purposeful strides.

“Turn around and lift up your shirt for me.” she requested casually, her tone betraying the routine nature of the task.

Hiro didn’t hesitate, having long since accepted this post-training ritual. It had become a familiar pattern: he faced the brunt of Rayna’s relentless training, and she, in turn, used her healing magic to mend his wounds.

“Ouch, maybe I didn’t hold back enough after all.” she mused as she gently placed her hand over his sore back.

The soothing warmth of her healing magic began to seep into Hiro’s muscles, and he let out a contented sigh.

“That’s the stuff…” he gasped, savoring the relief from the persistent pain.

Rayna’s ears turned a delicate shade of pink at his comment, a slight blush rising to her cheeks as she was touched by his reaction. Trying to mask her flustered state, she sat down on the floor beside his chair, her expression shifting to a playful pout.

“I’m done. Now it’s your turn,” she huffed, extending her hand towards him, “You hit my wrist pretty bad.”

Hiro took her hand and examined it with exaggerated seriousness, causing Rayna to gasp in surprise at his sudden action.

“Hmmm… are you sure? There are no bruises, it’s not even red or anything.” he teased, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.

“It hurts! Don’t just poke it like that!” Rayna protested, her embarrassment evident as she tried to pull her hand away.

Hiro chuckled softly, his attention returning to Rayna’s wrist. As he focused on the area, his power activated on its own, revealing the dark aura that emanated from the spot where he had struck her. Thanks to his recent studies with Ai, Hiro had gained a better understanding of his Attribute’s nature. The dim, dark glow that surrounded the injury was a clear sign of the damage he had caused. The intensity of this dark aura was directly proportional to the severity of the injury; the brighter the glow, the more serious the wound. While this dark aura was invisible to anyone but Hiro, he had explained the concept to Ai and the others without revealing the true nature of the light that traveled to him. Instead, he described it as simply being extinguished through his exceptional healing abilities.

Rayna, watching Hiro’s concentrated expression, tilted her head with curiosity, “You can see the dark light on my wrist, huh?” she asked, her eyes searching his face for answers.

Hiro nodded, focusing on drawing the injury into himself. It wasn’t just her wrist that showed signs of strain; he could sense the subtle aches and soreness in multiple areas of her body. With more practice, Hiro had learned to absorb even the most mundane of wounds through his Attribute. His potential was growing, but so too were the side effects of his power. In this instance, however, he was reassured that the effects would be minimal. The injuries were merely the result of their training, and Rayna’s feelings of excitement and contentment mitigated the more adverse aspects of his absorption.

“There! Good as new.” Hiro announced, releasing her hand with a satisfied grin.

Rayna flexed her wrist experimentally, a look of pleasant surprise crossing her face. Energized by Hiro’s healing, she sprang to her feet, her spirit visibly lifted.

“You overdid it again, didn’t you? Not that I’m complaining, mind you! I feel like a newborn!” she exclaimed, her voice brimming with enthusiasm as she twirled gracefully, a show of her revitalized state.

Hiro watched her with a modest smile, his eyes filled with quiet satisfaction, “It’s nothing. It’s the least I can do to thank you for your hard work.” he explained.

Rayna’s grin widened as she looked at him, her eyes sparkling with appreciation. She gathered her scattered belongings with a practiced efficiency, her movements quick and purposeful.

Rayna gave him a cheerful wave before heading towards the small bathroom in the training hall. It was a modest space, equipped with the essentials for freshening up after their intense training sessions.

As she disappeared into the bathroom, Hiro took the opportunity to tidy up the training area. He meticulously picked up the scattered equipment, wiped down the surfaces, and put everything back in its proper place.

After about thirty minutes, Rayna emerged from the bathroom, her hair still slightly damp from the shower. She was now dressed in her maid uniform, a stark contrast to the sweat-soaked training attire she had worn earlier. The sight of her in the elegant outfit caused a faint blush to rise on Hiro’s cheeks. He quickly averted his gaze, focusing intently on the task at hand to avoid staring.

Rayna noticed his reaction and smiled bashfully, “You know, you don’t have to look away just because I’m in my maid uniform. I promise I’m still the same person.”

Hiro’s blush deepened as he stammered, “Must be your imagination, I didn’t even notice you were out already.”

Rayna raised an eyebrow at his awkward response but chose to let it slide. With a practiced hand, she adjusted her maid uniform, smoothing out any wrinkles and ensuring it was perfect for her duties.

“Hey, Rayna. I was thinking… would you like to go into the city today?” Hiro inquired suddenly.

Rayna paused mid-adjustment, her eyes brightening with excitement. She placed a gentle tap on her chin, then flashed him a beaming smile, “Sure! I was hoping we could go for some time now, to be honest. I’m really glad you brought it up!” her enthusiasm was evident, her earlier fatigue forgotten in the face of the new opportunity.

Hiro smiled, relieved at her positive reaction, “Great! We can grab something to eat outside while we’re at it.”

Rayna nodded eagerly, her eyes sparkling. She swept her normally loose hair up into a long ponytail, twirling in front of the mirror to admire her reflection. Satisfied with her appearance, she turned to Hiro with a cheerful grin.

“Don’t forget to pack your cloak.” she winked playfully at him, “It’ll be easier to walk around like this.”

As she left the room, Hiro felt his heart skip a beat at the warm gesture. His cheeks flushed, and he quickly rationalized to himself, ‘I should probably take a break.’

He took another swig from his water cup, hoping the cool liquid might help calm the sudden heat on his face, “Guess I’ll get ready. The side effects from my power will kick soon too.” he muttered to himself as he stood and made his way to the bathroom for a quick shower.

Rayna was on her way to complete her assigned chores, a chipper smile tugging at the corners of her lips. The recent success of another grueling training session with Hiro and the prospect of their outing later in the day had put her in high spirits. Her steps were light, and there was a certain bounce to her gait as she made her way through the grand halls of the mansion.

As she rounded a corner, she nearly collided with the Lord of the mansion himself, Alastair. Rayna quickly stepped aside, bowing respectfully as he passed by. Alastair, engrossed in whatever task lay before him, did not even spare her a second glance and continued on his way, his brisk pace conveying an air of urgency.

Once Alastair had disappeared from view, Rayna turned her attention back to the marble column near which he had just passed. With a knowing smile, she addressed the column as if it were an old friend.

“You can come out.” she crossed her arms.

From behind the column, a girl emerged. Liliana, with her blonde braided hair and a pouty expression, revealed her discontent as she stepped into the open.

“How did you know?” Liliana asked with a somewhat annoyed huff, crossing her arms defensively.

Rayna’s smile widened slightly, “Your perfume gave you away. I could smell it from all the way over there,” she gestured towards the corner she had originally turned from.

“Ugh, that figures.” Liliana said, her shoulders slumping in defeat.

Rayna leaned casually against the column, her expression softening into one of genuine concern, “So, you were tailing him again, huh?”

Liliana shrugged, her gaze dropping to the floor, “Yeah, Father’s always rushing off somewhere. I was just trying to find out where he’s going.”

Rayna’s eyes filled with empathy as she considered the younger girl’s situation, “It’s fine, I get it. Our problems aside, Alastair is still your father. I can only imagine how tough it must be for you.” her genuine understanding and concern brought relief to Liliana.

Thank you, Rayna.” Liliana said quietly, hesitating for a moment before throwing her arms around Rayna in a heartfelt hug, “I just wish he’d spend a bit more time with me.” she mumbled into the Elf’s shoulder.

Rayna gently stroked her hair, her expression softening with fondness, “Lili…” she tried to say something reassuring, but no words would come out. Instead, she decided to stir away from the painful subject and occupy Liliana’s mind with something else.

“Your big brother is probably resting now, and I’m sure he’d be happy to see you.”

Liliana pulled back slightly, her eyes brightening at Rayna’s words. Her mood immediately improved as she squeezed Rayna one last time before hurrying off in search of her older brother.

Rayna watched her go, a tender smile on her face. “She’s so much happier since he came into our lives…” Rayna mused, watching the beaming young lady dash through the hallway, “…and I am too.” she added, the mere thought of Hiro stirring butterflies in her stomach.

Taking a deep breath, Rayna rolled up her sleeves, ready to tackle the day’s tasks with her usual blend of efficiency and determination. Today’s assignment had her in the grand dining hall, part of a group responsible for cleaning the massive, ornate windows that lined the room. The sight of the opulent glass panes was a testament to the mansion’s grandeur, and despite the mundane nature of the chore, Rayna approached it with a focused and earnest attitude, a lesson she had absorbed deeply from her sister, Ai.

Rayna positioned the ladder with practiced ease and began the task of spraying the thick, beautiful glass. The delicate sparkle of the sun’s rays refracting through the glass reminded her of the mansion’s elegance, even as she meticulously cleaned away every speck of grime and every stubborn smudge. With each stroke of the squeegee, she made sure the windows were left spotless, their surfaces gleaming like the day they were first installed.

As she stepped back from her work, wiping the sweat from her brow, she admired the gleaming results with a satisfied sigh.

“Rayna, could you give us a hand?” came a call from one of the other maids, pulling Rayna from her reverie.

Rayna perked up at the request, her eyes scanning the room for the source of the voice. She spotted Ayaka, one of her fellow maids, standing at the edge of the room with a strained expression. Without hesitation, Rayna trotted over to her, concern etched on her face.

“What’s wrong? Are you okay, Ayaka?” Rayna inquired gently, her voice laced with genuine worry.

Ayaka’s face tightened, a shadow of pain crossing her features. She extended her hand towards Rayna, revealing a large red mark on her wrist. The mark was unmistakable, it was from a whip.

“I-It’s mostly healed… your sister helped before you came.” Ayaka stammered, her voice trembling slightly as tears began to well up in her eyes. “I’m sorry, it still hurts when I bend it, and I can’t—” she choked on her words, the pain and frustration clear in her eyes.

Rayna’s heart ached at the sight of her fellow maid’s distress. Without a second thought, she wrapped her arms around Ayaka in a comforting embrace.

“It’s okay, Ayaka.” she whispered and used her Attribute to calm Ayaka down, “Why don’t you sweep up the floor while I handle the heavy lifting?”

Ayaka nodded gratefully, her voice barely above a whisper, “Thank you, Rayna. You’re incredible.”

With a final reassuring pat on Ayaka’s shoulder, Rayna watched as she went to fetch a broom, her movements a bit more tentative but determined nonetheless. Rayna then climbed back up her ladder, resuming her work on the windows Ayaka was unable to clean due to her injury.

As she wiped away the grime from the glass, Rayna’s outward calm belied the storm of emotions seething beneath the surface. Each time she saw one of her fellow maids hurt, she felt a pang of anger and a fierce urge for retribution. It was a battle she fought daily, one where she had to reconcile her desire for vengeance with her role in all of this. Her hand occasionally twitched towards the hilt of an imagined sword at her side, but she squashed the impulse, knowing that violence would not solve the deeper issues at play.

Rayna channeled her emotions into her work, her movements deliberate and steady as she finished the windows. With each pass of the cloth, she focused on the task at hand, using the physical labor to ground her thoughts and ease her frustration.

“Almost done.” she murmured to herself.

Rayna finished her chores with a final, satisfied nod, catching sight of the other maids preparing the table for dinner. An idea sparked in her mind, and she quickly caught up with Ayaka, who was still rubbing her wrist gingerly.

“Hey, would you come with me for a second? I think I know just the guy to help you.” Rayna said with a confident grin, much to Ayaka’s confusion.

“O-Okay.” Ayaka nodded, her voice tinged with hesitation.

The two of them made their way briskly towards Hiro's room. Ayaka, worry evident in her tone, asked, “Are you sure he’s a good Human?”

“Absolutely! You have my word.” Rayna replied enthusiastically, her confidence unwavering.

They reached Hiro’s room, and Rayna entered without knocking. Ayaka hesitated, concerned about the abruptness of their visit, but Rayna’s confidence reassured her.

“Oh, Rayna! Good timing, I was just about ready to…” he paused, noticing an Elf girl peeking out timidly from behind Rayna, “Hi. My name’s Hiro. Who might you be?”

Ayaka, surprised by the gentleness in his voice, felt a bit more at ease. She cleared her throat and poked her head from her hiding spot.

“My name’s Ayaka, sir.” she replied quietly.

“Nice to meet you, Ayaka. You can just call me Hiro.” he said casually, a friendly smile on his face.

She reciprocated his smile with one as well, appreciating his warm demeanor.

“Anyway,” Rayna chimed in, “Ayaka was hurt by one of Alastair’s guests.” she explained.

“I-It’s not that bad… just a bruise on my wrist. It’s because I was too clumsy.” Ayaka added shyly, wincing slightly as she extended her injured hand toward Hiro.

“No way.” Hiro stood up, determination in his eyes, “They shouldn’t have hurt you in the first place.”

He extended his hand invitingly and smiled reassuringly, “May I?” he asked softly.

Ayaka, skeptical due to her past experiences with Humans, glanced at Rayna. Seeing the confidence in her eyes, Ayaka decided to trust Hiro. She timidly rolled up her sleeve and placed her hand in his. Hiro gently covered her hand with his other hand, smiling reassuringly before closing his eyes. In a matter of seconds, the swelling disappeared, the pain vanished, and no trace of the bruise remained.

“There you go.” Hiro said softly when he noticed that Ayaka didn’t seem to realize that it was done.

“H-How? I’m… okay? No…” she patted her body, finding her strained back and sore muscles completely fine, “It’s too much. I-I don’t know what to say…” she choked on her words, a quiet sob escaping her lips.

“It’s okay. I’m just happy I could help.” Hiro replied with a soft expression, “If you need my help in the future, you can just come and ask. I’ll definitely do something to-” before he could finish, Ayaka threw her arms around him, hugging him tightly.

Rayna’s eyes widened in shock. The timid girl, usually scared for her life around Humans, was now embracing Hiro.

“A-Ayaka!” Rayna exclaimed, unable to process the scene unfolding before her.

Ayaka, unbothered, wept quietly against Hiro, “Thank you, thank you…” she repeated between her sobs.

Despite his initial shock, Hiro gently stroked her head to soothe her. After what felt like an eternity for the turquoise-haired Elf, Ayaka finally let go of the boy and gently wiped the flooding tears from her cheeks.

“I’m sorry about my shameful behavior…” Ayaka mumbled shyly, her cheeks a bright shade of red.

“No worries.” he replied curtly, finally somewhat aware of the awkward tension in the room.

Rayna, a vein popping on her forehead, forced a smile, “Ayaka, go clean your face in the bathroom over there.” she offered politely.

Eager to escape the awkward situation, Ayaka bowed to Hiro and disappeared into the bathroom.

“Well, well… aren’t you suddenly popular?” Rayna teased with a sarcastic tone.

“C-Come on. Don’t be ridiculous. I’m not…” Hiro’s voice trailed off as a cheeky smirk formed on his face, “…maybe I really am-” but before he could finish his thought, Rayna smacked him on the back.

Hiro laughed as Rayna chased him around the room, her initial annoyance giving way to shared laughter. Seizing the opportunity, Hiro decided to showcase his evasion skills in the more confined space of his quarters. His room was spacious enough for a playful game of tag, providing an unexpected challenge.

Hiro dashed to the opposite side of their dining table, a mischievous grin on his face. He feinted to the right, then to the left, and back again, trying to throw Rayna off balance. Growing tired of his antics, Rayna leaped onto the table with feline agility, forcing Hiro to dive underneath it. He crawled quickly, emerging on the other side and making a beeline toward the small stone statuettes artfully arranged on golden stands near the entrance.

Rayna, aware of the delicate obstacles, huffed with determination. She couldn’t afford to knock anything over, so she squeezed carefully between the statuettes, her swift maneuvering catching Hiro off guard. Realizing he was outmatched, Hiro fled towards the bed, attempting to slide across it. But Rayna was too quick; she pounced, tackling him onto the mattress.

“Gotcha!” she exclaimed, a triumphant giggle escaping her lips as she pinned him down.

“Now then, mister playboy. A suitable punishment is in order…” she declared with a mock-serious tone that only made Hiro’s amusement grow.

“Oh no! Mercy!” he pleaded, feigning terror as if he were at the mercy of an impending doom.

Rayna, a bit miffed by his lack of reaction to her intimidating act, began tickling him mercilessly, her fingers dancing along his sides with a playful vengeance.

Hiro burst into uncontrollable laughter, his mirthful cries filling the room. Rayna grinned, reveling in the sight of Hiro’s helplessness, as her fingers deftly moved up towards his underarms and chest.

“Take that! My special technique!” she declared triumphantly, her fingers now targeting the most sensitive spots.

Hiro was left entirely at her mercy, writhing and laughing, his guffaws turning into desperate howls as Rayna’s relentless tickling continued. Their playful moment was abruptly interrupted by the soft creak of the bathroom door. Ayaka emerged, her freshly washed face betraying a hint of nervousness. It wasn’t until she cleared her throat that Rayna and Hiro noticed her presence.

“I-I’m sorry… I wanted to thank you again, but I see you two are” she trailed off, her cheeks turning a deep red, “b-busy.” she stammered.

Rayna and Hiro exchanged a mortified glance, their faces flushing bright red as they realized the awkward situation they were in. There she was, straddling Hiro on the bed, laughing and tickling him in a way that could easily be misconstrued as something more intimate.

“I-I won’t tell Ai, so don’t worry!” Ayaka said hurriedly, her voice a mixture of embarrassment and awkward sympathy as she quickly backed out of the room.

Rayna scrambled off Hiro, her face a mask of mortification as she stumbled over her own feet in a rush to clear up the misunderstanding. By the time she had regained her composure, Ayaka was already long gone.

“I can’t believe that just happened.” Rayna muttered, her face still bright red.

Hiro, sitting up on the bed and running a hand through his disheveled hair, looked equally flustered, “Yeah, that was… well, that was something.”

Rayna cleared her throat and tossed the bag with their cloaks to Hiro.

“L-Let’s go.” she stuttered, still slightly flustered by what had just happened, “We don’t have all day.” she marched toward the door, leaving Hiro no choice but to follow.

“Actually, we kinda do…” he muttered under his breath, but trailed after her nonetheless.

Exiting the mansion through the main entrance to avoid suspicion, Rayna adopted the demeanor of a dutiful servant, silently following Hiro. As luck would have it, they encountered the Lord of the mansion.

“Ah, I see you’re on your way out. Where are you off to?” Alastair inquired in a friendly tone.

Hiro bowed his head and smiled, “A little sightseeing here and there. I’ve been trying to get adjusted these past few weeks, but I think it’s time to see what this wonderful city has to offer.”

Alastair grinned, visibly pleased with Hiro’s eagerness to explore the city he governed. His eyes shifted to the Elf servant behind Hiro, noting her presence.

“I see you’re not going alone?” Alastair remarked, his tone tinged with mild disapproval.

“Yes. I’m putting my servant to use, because you were so gracious to appoint her to me.” Hiro replied respectfully.

Alastair’s demeanor softened, both relieved and pleased by Hiro’s response. He patted Hiro on the shoulder, laughing heartily.

“But of course! I’m my daughter would be more than happy to join you, but her studies must come first, unfortunately.”

“I’ll be sure to bring her a souvenir.” Hiro replied, further satisfying Alastair.

“I was hoping to exchange a few words with you, actually. In private.” Alastair added suddenly, taking the boy aside “Could you come to my study after you return? I’d greatly appreciate it.”

Rayna’s ears perked up as soon as she caught wind of the conversation. Despite the distance separating her from the two men and the soft, conspiratorial tone in which Alastair spoke, her extraordinary hearing allowed her to pick up every word with crystal clarity.

“Of course. I’d be honored.” Hiro replied casually, masking any hint of suspicion.

Just then, one of Alastair’s subordinates stepped in politely, reminding the Lord of some pending documents that required his attention. Alastair’s eyes shifted to the young aide, his expression one of mild surprise as he realized the time had slipped away from him. With a swift, apologetic smile, he inclined his head slightly in deference to Hiro before turning to take his leave.

“Let’s go.” Hiro commanded, and Rayna promptly followed him.

Once out of sight and outside the mansion gates, the girl sighed with relief. She no longer needed to be on her tiptoes.

“He wants to meet you later, right? It could be it. You know…” Rayna said, her voice a mix of hope and cheer.

“Let’s hope so. If not, I have to gain his trust and favor somehow.” Hiro replied.

Rayna spun on her toes to face him, her hands clasped behind her back and a radiant smile lighting up her face, “I’ll hide somewhere nearby. Just give a shout, and I’ll be there to rescue you..” she beamed, her confidence and playful demeanor made Hiro’s heart skip a beat.

“M-My hero...” he chuckled awkwardly.

“That aside” Rayna continued with a bright sparkle in her eyes, “let’s find a spot to put these on!” she gestured enthusiastically toward the bag Hiro was holding.

Hiro couldn’t help but be charmed by her infectious excitement. Since the day they had met, he had come to realize that Rayna possessed an unusual fascination with acting and disguises. Her passion for creating intricate scenarios and playing different roles was both captivating and endearing.

They made their way into a dimly lit alley, carefully glancing over their shoulders to ensure that they weren’t being followed. The alley was narrow and lined with old brick walls.

“Alright, let’s get these on,” Rayna said, her voice brimming with excitement.

She reached into the bag and pulled out two dark, flowing cloaks. The fabric shimmered faintly in the muted light, hinting at its quality.

Hiro nodded and took one of the cloaks, draping it over his shoulders with a practiced motion. He adjusted the hood, pulling it up to obscure his face.

“Wait a second.” Hiro whispered, reaching up to adjust her hood, his fingers brushing against her cheek with a gentle touch, making sure that it covered her long and pointy ears, “There.”

A faint blush appeared on her cheeks as she met his eyes, “Thanks.” she said softly, her voice almost lost in the quiet of the alley.

For a moment, they simply stood there, locked in a gaze that seemed to stretch on forever. The world outside the alley ceased to exist as they became absorbed in each other’s presence. The intensity of the moment hung in the air.

Eventually, they both seemed to come back to their senses, breaking the silence with nervous laughter, “L-Let’s go.” they said in unison, the shared awkwardness easing the tension between them.

They stepped out of the alley and into the bustling streets, now hidden beneath their cloaks and hoods. With Rayna's identity as an Elf safely concealed, the atmosphere around them transformed. The lively crowd seemed less threatening, and the air buzzed with the energy of the shopping district, Osata's most popular spot. Stalls and shops lined the streets, brimming with a dazzling array of goods, from vibrant fabrics to exotic spices.

Both Hiro and Rayna were visibly captivated by the sights and sounds. Rayna's eyes sparkled with wonder as she took in the bustling marketplace.

“I usually sneak around the city at night, so being able to see this is actually amazing.” she said, her voice tinged with excitement and awe.

As they wandered past a flower stall, Hiro’s attention was caught by a familiar face. The man behind the counter broke into a wide smile upon recognizing him.

“Would you look at that? Hiro! How have you been?” Percival, the merchant who had once given Hiro and Liliana a lift when they were lost in the forest, greeted warmly.

“Percival!? It’s great to see you!” Hiro beamed, stepping closer to the stall, “I’m actually doing well. Things have been pretty hectic, but I’m fine now. I’ve met some good people, it’s mostly thanks to them.” he explained with a grin.

“Umm, do you know him?” Rayna inquired curiously, her eyes flicking between Hiro and the cheerful merchant.

“Oh, right. Rayna, this is Percival. He helped me and Lili and get back to Osata. We owe him a lot.” Hiro explained, nodding towards Percival, who responded with a polite bow.

“The pleasure is mine.” Percival said, his smile warm and inviting.

Rayna returned the smile, her eyes reflecting genuine interest.

“I had no idea you were selling flowers.” Hiro remarked, his surprise evident.

Before them, a stunning array of flowers was meticulously arranged. Some were familiar, but many were exotic, surpassing even the variety found in the mansion's gardens.

Percival's smile widened as he noticed their admiration. He carefully selected a single flower from a vase, its petals a delicate and vibrant turquoise.

“A flower is essential for a date, wouldn’t you agree?” Percival teased, winking at Hiro as he offered the flower to Rayna.

“Ah! It’s not a date!” Rayna squeaked sheepishly, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson.

“W-W-What she said!” Hiro stammered, equally flustered.

Percival chuckled heartily, clearly entertained by their reactions. Despite her embarrassment, Rayna seemed captivated by the beautiful blossom.

Just when she was about to put it back, Hiro reached into his pouch, “Here. For the flower.” he handed Percival two golden coins, “Keep the change. I’m sure Lili would do the same if she were here.”

Percival bowed deeply, showing his appreciation. Rayna's blush deepened further as Hiro paid for it. She tucked it behind her ear, her smile shy but pleased.

While Hiro admired Rayna's new look, Percival turned to attend to another customer. The two of them waved their thanks and continued on their way.

“He was nice.” Rayna mused, “And he has good taste. This flower is beautiful. I didn’t think you’d actually buy it for me.” she added, a warm smile on her lips.

“It suits you.” Hiro complimented her, “Besides, today is all about you—taking a break from everything.”

Rayna couldn't help but tug on her hood, trying to conceal her blushing cheeks. She was genuinely touched by his kind gesture.

Taking a deep breath, she grabbed his hand, “Come on, then! There’s still plenty to see!” she exclaimed, her excitement palpable.

As they wandered through the bustling streets, Hiro was suddenly reminded of their dinner plans. Although the meals at the mansion were always hearty and satisfying, they had eaten breakfast hours ago, and now even the most modest hunger pangs began to stir. They decided to grab a quick bite at one of the street food stalls that lined the busy thoroughfare.

Guided by a tantalizing aroma, Rayna eagerly led the way to a stall adorned with colorful signs and the mouthwatering scent of freshly baked goods. They approached the vendor, and after a brief exchange, received a plate each bearing a golden-brown triangular pastry, its surface crisp and inviting. It was generously topped with a layer of tomato sauce, melted cheese, and a medley of savory meats.

Hiro took a curious look at the food, turning it around on his plate as if hoping for it to reveal its secrets. “What even is this?” he asked, raising an eyebrow at the unfamiliar dish.

Rayna's eyes sparkled with excitement as she inhaled the rich aroma, “I’m not sure, but it smells absolutely divine!” she said, her voice brimming with anticipation as she took a hearty bite.

Her enjoyment was short-lived, however, as she let out a muffled squeal, her face flushing as she fanned her open mouth, “H-H-Hot!” she managed to mumble through the steam rising from the hot food, her tongue evidently stung by the heat.

Hiro chuckled, handing her a cup of cool juice with a knowing smile, “You glutton, that’s what happens when you’re too greedy.” he said gently, shaking his head in mock disapproval.

Rayna gratefully accepted the juice and gulped it down in one swift motion, letting out a relieved sigh.

“It’s… still delicious though!” she declared, her face lighting up as she took another, more cautious bite.

Hiro blew on his portion, taking a bite with slow, deliberate care. The crust was a delightful blend of textures: chewy yet slightly crispy, giving way to the rich, tangy tomato sauce beneath. The cheese was melted to perfection, creamy and just the right amount of salty, melding harmoniously with the flavorful meats and seasonings atop the pastry. Each mouthful was a symphony of tastes and textures, creating a satisfying experience with every bite.

“You’re right! This is absolutely amazing!” Hiro exclaimed, his eyes bright with genuine delight as he looked at Rayna.

They continued to savor their food in a companionable silence, both absorbed in the pleasure of their newfound treat. The simple joy of the moment—a brief respite from their usual routines—was mirrored in the vibrant energy of the street around them.

As they finished their meal, Hiro noticed a faint grimace on Rayna’s face. She was clearly still feeling the effects of the hot food from earlier, and this sparked a thought in Hiro’s mind. Recalling a little tip he had picked up from Ai about Rayna’s favorite snacks, he quickly scanned the bustling street for a familiar sight.

His eyes landed on a nearby stall, its display filled with an array of colorful treats. Without pausing to ask, he took Rayna’s hand and gently but decisively led her toward it.

“H-Hey! Where are you taking me now?” Rayna inquired, her voice laced with surprise as she tried to keep up with Hiro’s brisk pace.

Before she could protest further, a vibrant sign with the familiar name came into view. Rayna’s eyes widened, and she let out an excited squeal, her steps quickening to match Hiro’s.

“Ice cream! How did you know?” she asked, her excitement bubbling over as she looked up at him with sparkling eyes.

Hiro hesitated for a moment, caught off guard by her enthusiastic reaction. A faint blush crept across his cheeks as he searched for a plausible explanation.

“Uh, I… well, I figured that ice cream would be good for soothing burns, so I thought it might help with your tongue.” he said, trying to sound nonchalant despite the embarrassment of not admitting that he had been pestering Ai for tips.

Rayna’s face lit up with genuine delight at his thoughtfulness. Without hesitation, she threw her arms around him in a brief, grateful hug.

“Thank you so much!” she said, her voice warm with appreciation.

Hiro was taken aback by the unexpected hug but managed a shy smile, “No problem.” He said, nervously scratching the back of his head.

Rayna stepped back, her eyes gleaming with a childlike eagerness, “Let me choose the flavors! Please! I’m a total expert, and I promise you won’t be disappointed!” she pleaded, her excitement making her look like a spoiled child who had just been granted a wish.

Hiro’s heart fluttered at the sight of her enthusiastic, almost endearing plea. Her exuberant charm was irresistible, and he found himself unable to say no. He simply nodded, his cheeks tinged with a deeper shade of red as he tried to hide his flustered state.

Rayna’s face beamed with happiness as she turned to the vendor, her eyes eagerly scanning the array of flavors displayed behind the glass counter. Her mouth almost watered as she took in the colorful selection, her anticipation palpable.

It wasn’t long before Rayna made her selections. After paying the vendor, she returned to Hiro with two delicious-looking cones of ice cream in hand, her excitement almost tangible.

“For you,” she said with a grin, handing him one of the cones, “I got the coconut flavor with white chocolate and almonds. And for me, vanilla with cookies and cream!” eagerly took a lick of her own ice cream, her eyes closing momentarily in sheer delight as the cold, sweet treat touched her tongue.

Her face lit up with pure joy, “Oh, this is so good!” she squealed, her cheeks flushing slightly from both the cold and the pleasure of her favorite treat, “Thank you so much for this, Hiro!”

Hiro smiled, feeling a warm glow at her enthusiasm, “I’m glad you’re enjoying it. Lili mentioned that there are street performers not far from here. Would you like to go check them out?” he suggested.

Rayna’s eyes widened with excitement. “Street performers? That sounds fantastic!” she said, her voice bubbling with anticipation, “Let’s go!”

As they rounded a corner, the sound of lively music drifted through the streets, punctuated by laughter and applause. They approached a small open square where a group of street performers had gathered, their talents creating a vibrant tapestry of sights and sounds.

A juggler in a bright red vest tossed colorful balls into the air with impressive skill, while a talented musician strummed a guitar, his melodic tunes adding a layer of charm to the scene. Nearby, a mime in a classic black-and-white outfit silently enacted a whimsical story, drawing smiles from the onlookers.

Hiro noticed how Rayna’s eyes followed every movement of the performers, her face reflecting the joy and wonder of the moment.

Rayna’s eyes sparkled as she took in the array of performers, “This is amazing!” she said, her voice filled with wonder as she grabbed Hiro’s hand and pulled him toward the juggler, “Look at him go! I can do that too, but with knifes!” she boasted.

Hiro laughed, enjoying her excitement, “Yeah, you’re definitely more impressive.”

They watched for a few more minutes, clapping along with the rhythm of the music and marveling at the performers’ skills.

With their ice cream cones in hand, they set off down the street, their conversation and laughter blending with the lively sounds around them.

Hiro watched as Rayna’s face lit up with wonder at every new sight, from the colorful stalls to the street performers who filled the air with music, dance, and acrobatics. In the midst of it all, they were content to be lost in the present, cherishing the happiness of the day and the pleasure of each other’s company.

As the sun began its descent towards the horizon, casting a golden glow over the cityscape, Hiro decided it was time to take Rayna to the special place he had been planning for their outing.

“Alright! We’re here.” Hiro announced with a sense of excitement, gesturing towards the majestic stone tower that loomed in front of them. “It’s a bit of a climb, but the view from up there is absolutely breathtaking.”

Rayna’s initial excitement seemed to falter as she looked up at the steep, winding path leading to the tower’s entrance. Her previous enthusiasm appeared to wane; she fell silent, her fingers nervously clutching the edges of her cloak. Her smile faded, replaced by a hesitant frown as she gazed up at the tower’s imposing height.

Hiro noticed the shift in her demeanor and looked at her with concern, “What’s wrong?” he asked gently, reaching out to lift her hood slightly, hoping to see what was troubling her, “Are you tired?”

Rayna’s eyes met his, and for a fleeting moment, Hiro glimpsed a vulnerability in her he had not seen before. There was a look of quiet discomfort on her face, an emotional strain that contrasted sharply with her earlier joy. Before he could inquire further, she shook her head, her lips curving into a small, albeit strained, smile.

“I’m fine.” she said softly, though her voice lacked its usual brightness, “And… you’re right. This view will be the perfect way to end the day.”

Hiro could sense that there was more to her unease than she was letting on, but he decided to respect her silence for the moment. He took her hand in his, giving it a gentle, reassuring squeeze. The simple gesture of support seemed to ease the tension in her shoulders, and the forced smile on her face gradually softened into one of genuine appreciation.

“Let’s go then” he said, his tone warm and encouraging.

Upon reaching the top of the tower, Hiro and Rayna leaned against the cool stone railing, gazing out at the breathtaking view below. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden hue over the cityscape as it slowly sank below the distant horizon. The sky was painted with vibrant shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a canvas of breathtaking beauty.

Rayna sighed deeply, her fingers reaching out towards the horizon as if trying to grasp the fleeting moment. Her eyes, however, were distant and clouded with a subtle sadness that Hiro had noticed but chose not to press. His mind lingered on her earlier change in mood, the faint tremor in her voice and the shadow in her eyes when she saw the tower. He was still trying to understand what had caused such a sudden shift.

Rayna’s sigh drew Hiro’s attention back to her, and she caught his gaze, her eyes meeting his with a resigned look, “I guess it wouldn’t be fair to hide it from you.” she began softly, her voice carrying a weight that belied the beauty of the sunset before them, “And I’d rather you hear it from me than from someone else. To be honest, I kinda hate this tower.”

Hiro’s eyebrows furrowed in surprise, “Hate it? How so?”

Rayna took a deep breath, her eyes fixed on the horizon as she spoke, “Well, in short… it’s where I got my heart broken.” she murmured, her voice barely more than a whisper. The pain in her eyes was evident, a sharp contrast to the serene beauty of the sunset.

Hiro’s heart fluttered, but not in the same lighthearted way as earlier in the day. It was as if he felt a pang of pain, a quiet ache for her unspoken hurt. He himself didn’t quite understand why.

“You were… in love? With who?” he pressed further.

Rayna nodded slowly, her gaze never leaving the horizon, “Yes, with a Human.” she said, pausing for a moment as if to gather her thoughts, “…with Felix. It was almost a year ago now. I asked him to meet me here at this tower at night, and I confessed my feelings to him.” her voice faltered slightly, her shoulders sagging as she continued, “Let’s just say it didn’t work out as I hoped it would.”

Hiro’s mouth fell open slightly, taken aback by her revelation. The pieces of the puzzle started falling into place for him. Her previous reactions, her reluctance towards the tower, and the bitterness in her eyes whenever she spoke of or to Felix—all of it made sense now. He struggled to find the right words, unsure of what to say.

Rayna seemed to sense his hesitation and offered a small, bittersweet smile, “But you know…” she said, her tone growing softer, “thanks to you, I think I can finally start associating this place with something more than just painful memories.”

Hiro opened his mouth to respond, but the words were lost in the moment. Before he could speak, Rayna suddenly wrapped her arms around him, seeking comfort in the embrace, “Sorry.” she murmured into his shoulder, her voice trembling slightly, “Just for a little bit, okay?”

Hiro’s arms instinctively wrapped around her in return, his hands gently resting on her back, “Sure. Take your time.”

They stood there together, wrapped in each other’s arms as the sun finally dipped below the horizon, leaving behind a sky adorned with the first glimmers of evening stars. The gentle breeze carried the soothing sounds of the city below, a soft reminder of the world that continued to turn despite the pain and joy they shared in this moment.

As the stars began to twinkle in the darkening sky, Hiro and Rayna remained entwined in a tender embrace, the silence between them a gentle testament to the comfort they found in each other’s presence.