Golden rays of sunlight filtered gently through the curtains of the Silver Maple Inn, painting warm streaks of light across the wooden floor.
Outside, Mayana Village had already begun another peaceful day.
Merchants opened their shops one after another as wagons rolled through the village streets. The smell of freshly baked bread drifted through the cool morning air while birds sang cheerfully from the rooftops.
Inside one of the guest rooms...
Four figures remained fast asleep.
Theodore hugged his blanket tightly, his small white wings twitching from time to time as he dreamed peacefully.
Mikaela had somehow rolled halfway across her bed during the night, clutching one of the pillows with a content smile.
Aizen lay quietly on his bed, breathing steadily.
And beside him...
Lyra Subaru's beautiful silver-white hair was spread gently across the pillow.
The previous night had been unexpectedly peaceful.
After everything the four of them had experienced over the past few days...
Bandits...
The corrupted wild boar...
The long journey through the Ancient Forest...
For the first time in a long while...
They had been able to sleep without fear.
Slowly...
Lyra's ocean-blue eyes fluttered open.
"...Mm..."
She blinked several times before her sleepy mind finally caught up.
Then...
She realized exactly where she was.
"...!"
Her face instantly turned bright pink.
"I..."
"I fell asleep beside Aizen again..."
Carefully...
Very carefully...
She glanced sideways.
Aizen was still sleeping peacefully, completely unaware that she had once again ended up beside him during the night.
Lyra covered her face with both hands.
"Oh no..."
"What if he noticed...?"
Her dragon tail curled nervously behind her.
Fortunately...
Aizen showed no signs of waking.
Lyra quietly released a relieved sigh.
"...Good..."
"I should wake up before everyone else notices."
Trying not to make the slightest sound, she slowly lifted the blanket and climbed out of bed.
She paused for a brief moment.
Looking back toward Aizen.
His expression looked unusually peaceful while sleeping.
The fierce warrior who had defeated countless enemies...
Now looked like nothing more than an ordinary young man finally enjoying a moment of rest.
A small smile appeared on Lyra's lips.
"...Sleep well."
She whispered so quietly that even she could barely hear her own voice.
Without another sound...
She quietly opened the bedroom door.
Click.
The door closed softly behind her.
The hallway of the Silver Maple Inn was calm and peaceful.
Warm sunlight poured through the large windows overlooking the village.
As Lyra descended the wooden staircase...
A familiar cheerful voice greeted her.
"Oh! Good morning, Miss Lyra!"
Lyra looked toward the reception desk.
Standing there with her usual warm smile was Elena, already wearing a clean white apron while organizing the morning reservations.
Lyra smiled politely.
"Good morning."
"You woke up early."
Elena laughed softly.
"Running an inn means waking up before everyone else."
She tilted her head slightly.
"And it seems you're quite the early riser yourself."
Lyra nodded.
"I wanted to freshen up before everyone wakes."
"I was wondering..."
"Where is your wash house?"
"Oh!"
Elena pointed toward a hallway near the back of the inn.
"Just head down that corridor."
"There are two separate bathhouses."
"The one with the red banner is for women."
"The blue banner is for men."
"So don't accidentally walk into the wrong one."
Lyra laughed quietly.
"I'll try not to."
"Thank you."
"My pleasure."
A few moments later...
Lyra stepped inside the women's wash house.
Unlike the grand bathing halls of the Dragon Kingdom...
This one was modest.
Simple wooden walls surrounded a large stone bath filled with steaming hot water.
The pleasant scent of herbs drifted gently through the room.
Sunlight filtered through small windows near the ceiling.
The atmosphere immediately eased the fatigue lingering inside her body.
"...It's nice."
She carefully folded her traveling clothes before wrapping a clean towel around herself.
Slowly....
She stepped into the warm water.
"...Ah..."
A quiet sigh escaped her lips.
The warmth spread throughout her tired muscles.
For the first time in days...
She allowed herself to completely relax.
The worries of traveling.
The dangers of the road.
The uncertainty of what awaited them in the Dragon Kingdom.
Everything seemed to drift away with the steam rising from the bath.
After several peaceful minutes...
Lyra finished washing and leaned back comfortably.
"...That feels much better."
She smiled softly.
"I should wake Aizen and the others soon."
Then another thought crossed her mind.
"...And I need to talk to Aizen."
She looked toward the ceiling thoughtfully.
"The Green Continent is far larger than either of us expected."
"It will still take us several months to reach the Dragon Kingdom."
"If we keep rushing without resting..."
"We'll only exhaust ourselves."
Perhaps...
Staying in Mayana Village for a little while wouldn't be such a bad idea.
After all...
The twins also deserved a chance to enjoy a peaceful life, even if only for a short time.
Lyra slowly climbed out of the bath.
She dried herself before reaching for the neatly folded clothes she had left nearby.
"...Hm?"
She blinked.
"My clothes..."
They weren't there anymore.
Instead...
A beautifully folded white dress rested in their place.
It was made from soft, elegant fabric that looked far more refined than her traveling outfit.
Lyra tilted her head in confusion.
"...Did someone..."
"...change my clothes?"
She looked around the empty bathhouse.
No one answered.
"...That's strange."
Still...
Since there was nothing else to wear...
She carefully picked up the dress.
"...Well..."
"I suppose it would be rude not to."
With slight hesitation...
She began putting it on.
Completely unaware...
That someone very mischievous was already waiting for her outside.
The elegant white dress fit surprisingly well.
Its soft fabric rested comfortably against Lyra's skin, far gentler than the traveling clothes she had worn for the past several years.
The dress featured long flowing sleeves that reached her wrists while leaving her shoulders gracefully exposed. The fitted waist naturally highlighted her slender figure before flowing into a long, elegant skirt that swayed gently with every step.
Although slightly more fashionable than anything she had ever worn...
It wasn't uncomfortable.
Lyra slowly turned toward the large mirror mounted on the wall.
"..."
For a brief moment...
She almost didn't recognize the young woman staring back at her.
Her silver-white hair cascaded down her back like flowing moonlight.
Her ocean-blue eyes sparkled beneath the morning sunlight pouring through the windows.
Even her white dragon horns somehow blended naturally with the elegant design.
"...It's..."
She gently touched the sleeve.
"...Beautiful."
A faint smile appeared across her face.
"It's been a long time since I've worn something this nice."
After adjusting the dress one final time...
Lyra quietly left the bathhouse.
The peaceful hallway remained silent.
Morning sunlight stretched across the polished wooden floor.
As Lyra rounded the corner toward the reception area...
A cheerful voice immediately called out.
"Oh my!"
"There she is!"
Elena placed both hands over her cheeks dramatically.
"My goodness..."
"Miss Lyra..."
"You're absolutely stunning!"
Lyra blinked.
"...Huh?"
She looked down at the dress.
Then back toward Elena.
"...Wait."
Her eyes slowly narrowed.
"...You."
Elena smiled innocently.
"...Me?"
"You changed my clothes."
Lyra crossed her arms.
"So it really was you."
Elena laughed sheepishly.
"...I may have borrowed them."
"You looked so beautiful..."
"I simply couldn't resist."
Lyra let out a small sigh.
"...You really surprised me."
"I'm sorry."
Elena clasped her hands together apologetically.
"But honestly..."
She looked Lyra up and down before nodding proudly.
"I regret absolutely nothing."
Lyra couldn't help letting out a defeated laugh.
"...You're impossible."
"I've been told that before."
Elena smiled brightly.
"But look at you."
She gently spun Lyra toward the nearby mirror.
"See?"
Lyra looked once more.
The elegant white dress complimented her silver hair perfectly.
Even after years of traveling...
She still carried the natural grace expected of a noble dragon.
"...It does look nice."
"I knew you'd admit it eventually."
Elena giggled.
Then...
Her expression suddenly became dramatically saddened.
She rested one hand against her cheek.
"...Although..."
"It's such a shame."
Lyra tilted her head.
"...A shame?"
Elena nodded dramatically.
"Such a beautiful young woman..."
"Dressing so plainly in front of her husband."
Silence.
"..."
"..."
Lyra's face instantly turned scarlet.
"W-W-What?!"
"H-He's not my husband!"
"We're..."
"We're just traveling companions!"
"Comrades!"
Elena blinked innocently.
"...Really?"
Lyra nodded repeatedly.
"Y-Yes!"
"We've simply been traveling together!"
"Hmmm..."
Elena leaned closer.
"Then..."
"What about the two adorable children?"
"They aren't yours?"
Lyra quickly shook her head.
"No!"
"We only met them recently."
She smiled gently as Mikaela and Theodore came to mind.
"They were being attacked by bandits."
"They had nowhere else to go..."
"So..."
"Aizen and I decided to let them travel with us."
Elena nodded thoughtfully.
"I see..."
"So that's what happened."
For a brief moment...
She remained quiet.
Then...
A mischievous smile slowly spread across her face.
"So..."
Lyra immediately became suspicious.
"...What?"
Elena folded her arms.
"If you don't have feelings for that handsome young man..."
She casually brushed a strand of chestnut hair behind her ear.
"...Perhaps..."
"...I should try getting to know him myself."
"..."
The words barely left Elena's mouth—
Before Lyra reacted without thinking.
"No!"
The shout echoed throughout the reception hall.
Elena blinked.
Lyra herself froze.
She had spoken far louder than intended.
Her face turned bright crimson.
"A-Aizen's..."
She swallowed nervously.
"...Mine."
Silence.
Complete silence.
The entire reception area became so quiet...
Even the ticking of the old wall clock could be heard.
Lyra's eyes slowly widened.
"..."
"...Eh?"
Only then...
Did she realize what had just come out of her mouth.
"W-Wait!"
"I-I didn't mean—"
Elena suddenly burst into laughter.
"Hahaha!"
"I knew it!"
"I knew it!"
Lyra covered her burning face with both hands.
"N-No..."
"You tricked me..."
Elena laughed so hard that tears formed in the corners of her eyes.
"Oh, Miss Lyra..."
"You've been holding that in for quite a while, haven't you?"
Lyra couldn't answer.
She simply stood there...
Completely flustered.
Then...
A familiar voice quietly spoke from behind them.
"...Really?"
Lyra froze.
Elena immediately stopped laughing.
Both slowly turned around.
Standing near the hallway entrance...
Holding an empty wooden bowl in one hand...
Was Aizen.
His golden eyes met Lyra's.
A slightly amused smile appeared on his face.
"...Does that mean..."
"You've had feelings for me this whole time, Lyra?"
The world seemed to stop.
Lyra's face became even redder than before.
"...A-Aizen..."
She wished the floor would simply open and swallow her whole.
And Elena...
Could only grin.
"...Well..."
"It seems my little plan worked even better than expected."
Only silence filled the reception hall.
Lyra stood completely frozen.
Her ocean-blue eyes remained locked on Aizen's golden ones.
Her face had become so red that even the tips of her long white ears were tinted pink.
"..."
"..."
Neither of them spoke.
For several long seconds...
The only sound came from the crackling fireplace near the corner of the inn.
Then—
Lyra hurriedly waved both hands.
"W-Wait!"
"I-I can explain!"
"It isn't what you think!"
Aizen tilted his head slightly.
"...Really?"
His calm expression only made Lyra panic even more.
"I..."
"I just..."
She lowered her head.
Unable to find the right words.
"..."
Elena quietly watched the two with a knowing smile.
"They're both hopeless..."
she thought with amusement.
Finally...
Aizen scratched the back of his head awkwardly.
"...Well..."
"I guess..."
"I'm happy."
Lyra blinked.
"...Huh?"
Aizen smiled gently.
"If what you said was true..."
"...then I'm glad."
"I've been carrying the same feelings for a long time."
Lyra's eyes slowly widened.
"...You..."
Aizen nodded.
"I just never knew how to say it."
"I thought..."
"Maybe you'd only ever see me as your traveling partner."
He laughed quietly at himself.
"So I kept putting it off."
Lyra stared at him in complete disbelief.
"...You idiot..."
she whispered.
Aizen blinked.
"...What?"
"You..."
She looked down at the wooden floor.
"...You're such an idiot."
A small smile slowly appeared on her lips.
"I thought exactly the same thing."
"..."
Aizen froze.
Then...
Both of them began laughing.
Not because anything was particularly funny...
But because they had spent years worrying over something that neither of them had needed to fear.
Elena quietly wiped away an imaginary tear.
"...Finally."
She folded her arms proudly.
"I was beginning to think the two of you would need another ten years."
Both immediately looked toward her.
"E-Elena!"
they exclaimed at the same time.
She simply laughed.
"What?"
"I only gave fate a tiny little push."
Lyra sighed in defeat.
"...A tiny push?"
"You practically pushed us off a cliff."
Elena smiled innocently.
"And yet..."
She pointed toward the two of them.
"...Neither of you looks unhappy."
Neither Aizen nor Lyra could deny it.
After a brief silence...
Aizen looked toward Lyra.
"...So..."
"I guess..."
"We should stop pretending."
Lyra smiled softly.
"...Yes."
"For once..."
"Let's be honest with ourselves."
Elena clapped her hands together happily.
"Wonderful!"
"Now that we've settled that..."
She leaned forward with sparkling eyes.
"I have an important question."
The two looked at her curiously.
"...What is it?"
Elena smiled mischievously.
"So..."
"You've been traveling together for years."
The two nodded.
"You've protected one another countless times."
Another nod.
"You've already admitted you love each other."
Both of them slowly turned red again.
Elena placed both hands on her hips.
"...Then tell me."
"When was your first date?"
"..."
"..."
Silence.
Aizen slowly looked toward Lyra.
Lyra slowly looked toward Aizen.
Then...
Both answered together.
"...We've never had one."
Elena blinked once.
Then twice.
"...You've never..."
"...been on a date?"
Both quietly shook their heads.
Elena covered her face dramatically.
"Oh, heavens..."
"What have you two been doing all these years?"
"We were..."
Aizen scratched his cheek awkwardly.
"...Usually trying not to die."
Lyra nodded in agreement.
"There wasn't exactly much time for romance."
Elena let out a long sigh.
"I suppose that's true..."
"But still."
She suddenly pointed toward the two of them with determination.
"That changes today."
"Huh?"
Aizen blinked.
"Today?"
Elena nodded enthusiastically.
"Yes!"
"You've finally confessed your feelings."
"So naturally..."
"You should have your very first date."
Lyra looked toward Aizen.
"...A date..."
A faint smile appeared on her face.
"...That actually sounds nice."
Aizen smiled back.
"...I'd like that too."
Elena beamed happily.
"Excellent!"
She clapped her hands once more.
"Then it's decided."
She pointed toward the hallway leading deeper into the inn.
"Aizen."
"The men's wash house is through that corridor."
"It has a blue banner above the entrance."
"Go freshen up."
"And don't keep a lady waiting."
Aizen chuckled softly.
"...Understood."
He looked toward Lyra one more time.
"I'll be back soon."
Lyra nodded gently.
"...I'll be waiting."
As Aizen walked toward the men's bath...
Elena turned back toward Lyra with an excited grin.
"...Now then."
"We're not finished yet."
Lyra blinked.
"...Finished?"
Elena smiled knowingly.
"If the two of you are going on your first date..."
"I refuse to let you wear a dress that's a size too small."
Lyra instinctively looked down at herself.
"...It is a little tight..."
"I thought so."
Elena gently took Lyra's hand.
"Come with me."
"I have something much prettier."
As the two women disappeared into the changing room...
Aizen continued walking toward the men's bath, completely unaware...
That Elena had already begun planning an even bigger surprise for both of them.
As the door to the women's dressing room quietly closed behind them...
Lyra looked around curiously.
Unlike the public reception hall, this room was warm and cozy. Wooden wardrobes lined the walls, while a large mirror stood near the center. Several elegant dresses hung neatly on polished racks, filling the room with soft colors and delicate fabrics.
"...You have all of these?" Lyra asked in surprise.
Elena smiled proudly.
"Many travelers forget clothing or ask me to repair theirs."
"So over the years..."
"I've collected quite a few outfits."
She folded her arms with a confident grin.
"And today..."
"I finally have someone worthy of wearing one."
Lyra couldn't help but laugh softly.
"...You're exaggerating."
"I most certainly am not."
Elena walked toward one of the wardrobes before carefully pulling out another white dress.
Unlike the first one...
This dress was slightly longer and more elegant. The fabric flowed naturally while remaining comfortable enough for walking long distances. It rested gently over the shoulders instead of fitting too tightly, and delicate silver embroidery decorated the edges of the sleeves and skirt.
"I think this one suits you much better."
Lyra gently accepted it.
"...It's beautiful."
"It'll also be far more comfortable."
Elena smiled.
"You'll be spending the day walking with Aizen after all."
The mention of his name immediately made Lyra blush.
"I-I suppose..."
Elena giggled.
"Go on."
"I'll help you."
Several minutes later...
Lyra stepped out from behind the changing screen.
Elena's eyes sparkled.
"There she is..."
The new dress fit perfectly.
Its elegant white fabric contrasted beautifully against Lyra's silver-white hair.
The off-shoulder design revealed her graceful shoulders while remaining modest and refined. The fitted waist naturally complimented her figure before flowing into a long skirt that swayed gently with every movement.
Even her white dragon horns and silver tail seemed to blend naturally with the outfit, making her appear almost ethereal.
"...What do you think?"
Lyra quietly turned toward the mirror.
For a long moment...
She simply stared.
"...Is..."
"...Is that really me?"
She hardly recognized herself.
Years of traveling had made practical clothing feel normal.
It had been a very long time since she had dressed as elegantly as she once had in the Dragon Kingdom.
Elena smiled warmly.
"You've always been beautiful."
"You simply forgot."
Lyra smiled shyly.
"...Thank you."
"But we're not finished."
"Hm?"
Elena walked behind her while holding a wooden comb decorated with small silver flowers.
"Sit down."
"I'll fix your hair."
Lyra obediently sat before the mirror.
With practiced hands...
Elena gently brushed her long silver hair until it flowed smoothly like silk.
Then she carefully tied the upper portion into a graceful half-up, half-down hairstyle while leaving several soft strands to frame her face.
The hairstyle naturally worked around Lyra's white dragon horns instead of hiding them.
If anything...
It emphasized her unique beauty.
"There."
Elena stepped back proudly.
"Perfect."
Lyra looked into the mirror once again.
"..."
She couldn't help smiling.
"...I never imagined..."
"...I could still look like this."
Elena gently rested a hand on her shoulder.
"You don't need expensive jewels to be beautiful."
"Sometimes..."
"All someone needs..."
"...is a reason to smile."
Lyra quietly lowered her eyes.
"...I think..."
"I finally found mine."
Meanwhile...
On the other side of the inn...
Aizen had just finished bathing.
"...That feels refreshing."
He dried his black hair with a towel before reaching for the clothes he had left nearby.
"...Hm?"
He blinked.
"My clothes?"
Instead of his familiar traveling outfit...
A neatly folded set of dark formal clothing rested upon the bench.
"...What happened?"
A polite knock came from outside.
"Excuse me, Mister Aizen."
A young male attendant stepped inside after receiving permission.
"My name is Daniel."
"Miss Elena asked me to assist you."
"...Assist me?"
Daniel smiled.
"She said today's a very important day."
"So..."
"We prepared something more suitable."
Aizen scratched the back of his head.
"...She really went this far?"
"I'm afraid she did."
Daniel laughed.
"But I promise..."
"You'll like the result."
After a moment's hesitation...
Aizen nodded.
"...Alright."
"I'll trust you."
The attendant helped him into a clean black outfit with silver accents that matched the color of Aizen's golden eyes. It was simple enough for travel yet elegant enough for a special occasion.
Then Daniel looked thoughtfully at Aizen's long black hair.
"...Would you mind if I adjusted your hairstyle a little?"
"My hairstyle?"
"It won't take long."
"And your lion ears will stand out much more."
Aizen shrugged.
"...Sure."
Several minutes later...
The attendant carefully trimmed and styled Aizen's hair into a medium-length textured cut with a curtain fringe, while keeping the long ponytail at the back. His black lion ears were now clearly visible, giving him a more refined yet naturally wild appearance.
When everything was finished...
Daniel stepped aside.
"There."
Aizen slowly turned toward the mirror.
"..."
For several seconds...
He simply stared
"...Is..."
"...that really me?"
He almost looked like a young noble instead of a wandering traveler.
Daniel smiled.
"You were handsome already."
"We merely helped everyone else notice."
Aizen laughed awkwardly.
"I think Elena enjoys surprising people a little too much."
"I'm certain she'd agree with that."
Aizen smiled before taking a deep breath.
"...Well..."
"I suppose I shouldn't keep Lyra waiting."
Completely unaware...
That Lyra was thinking the exact same thing on the other side of the inn.
And in the hallway between them...
Elena stood with the biggest smile on her face.
"...Now this..."
"...is going to be fun."
The hallway of the Silver Maple Inn was quiet.
Warm morning sunlight streamed through the windows, illuminating the polished wooden floor.
Aizen stepped out of the men's dressing room first.
His freshly styled black hair framed his face neatly, while the long ponytail behind him swayed gently as he walked. His black outfit, accented with silver embroidery, gave him the appearance of a young noble rather than a wandering traveler.
Several guests eating breakfast paused for a moment.
"...Who's that?"
"I thought another noble had arrived."
"No..."
"Isn't that the young man who saved the village yesterday?"
Aizen scratched his cheek awkwardly after noticing the stares.
"...This is a little embarrassing."
Just then...
The door to the women's dressing room slowly opened.
Tap...
Tap...
Soft footsteps echoed across the hallway.
Aizen instinctively looked toward the sound.
Then...
He froze.
Standing at the doorway was Lyra.
Her long silver-white hair flowed gracefully over her shoulders, the elegant half-up hairstyle making her ocean-blue eyes stand out even more. The white dress Elena had chosen fit her perfectly, while her dragon horns and silver tail gave her an almost heavenly beauty.
For several long seconds...
Aizen forgot how to speak.
"..."
Lyra noticed his gaze and became flustered.
"W-Why are you staring at me like that?"
Aizen blinked before finally finding his voice.
"...You're..."
He smiled sincerely.
"...Beautiful."
Lyra's face instantly turned crimson.
"B-Beautiful...?"
She looked away, trying to hide her embarrassment.
"T-Thank you..."
Then she looked back at him.
Her eyes widened slightly.
"...Aizen..."
"Hm?"
"You..."
She smiled softly.
"...You look really handsome."
Now it was Aizen's turn to become embarrassed.
"I-I do?"
Lyra nodded.
"Much more than before."
"You almost don't look like the same person."
Aizen laughed awkwardly.
"I think that's Elena's doing."
At that exact moment...
Elena proudly stepped between them.
"I knew it!"
"I knew you'd both look perfect!"
She placed her hands on her hips triumphantly.
"See?"
"I told you both!"
"You simply needed someone with good taste."
The two could only smile helplessly.
Elena looked between them before nodding in satisfaction.
"...Perfect."
She suddenly remembered something.
"Oh!"
"The twins are still asleep."
"I'll watch over Mikaela and Theodore."
She smiled warmly.
"So don't worry about them."
"Just enjoy yourselves."
Lyra looked slightly worried.
"Will they be alright?"
Elena nodded confidently.
"They've had a difficult journey."
"They deserve to sleep in."
"And besides..."
She leaned closer with a teasing smile.
"...You two deserve some time alone."
Lyra immediately looked away.
"W-We aren't..."
Elena raised an eyebrow.
"Really?"
Lyra sighed in defeat.
"...Never mind."
Aizen chuckled softly.
"Thank you, Elena."
She waved her hand dismissively.
"It's nothing."
"Just make sure you return before dinner."
"And don't waste your first date."
Aizen nodded.
"We won't."
He turned toward Lyra and extended his hand.
"...Shall we go?"
Lyra looked at his outstretched hand for a moment.
A warm smile slowly spread across her face.
"...Yes."
Without hesitation...
She gently placed her hand in his.
Their fingers naturally intertwined.
Neither of them realized it...
But this was the first time they had ever held hands like this.
Both could feel the warmth of the other's hand.
Aizen smiled.
"...Ready?"
Lyra nodded happily.
"...Ready."
Together...
The two stepped out of the Silver Maple Inn.
The bright morning sun greeted them.
The lively streets of Mayana Village were already filled with merchants, travelers, and children running through the marketplace.
Some villagers immediately recognized them.
"Look!"
"It's the young hero!"
"And the dragon girl!"
"They're holding hands!"
Several people smiled knowingly.
Others quietly whispered among themselves.
Aizen and Lyra noticed the attention, but neither of them minded.
For once...
They weren't simply traveling companions.
They were two people who had finally admitted what had long been hidden in their hearts.
As they walked side by side through the peaceful village...
Neither of them noticed...
High above the rooftops...
A lone figure wearing black robes briefly watched them from the shadows.
A pair of cold, reptilian eyes followed Aizen's every movement.
"...So..."
"The Black Lion is here."
The figure quietly disappeared before anyone could sense his presence.
Far below...
Unaware that danger had already begun watching from the shadows...
Aizen gently squeezed Lyra's hand.
"I know a place we should visit first."
Lyra smiled brightly.
"I'll follow wherever you lead."
And so...
Their very first date...
Finally began...
Moments later...
The peaceful streets of Mayana Village bustled with life.
Merchants proudly displayed colorful fruits and vegetables in front of their stalls.
The aroma of freshly baked bread drifted through the air while cheerful laughter echoed from children running through the marketplace.
For the first time in what felt like forever...
Aizen and Lyra weren't traveling because they had somewhere they needed to be.
They were simply...
Walking together.
Hand in hand.
Neither of them spoke for a while.
Somehow...
The silence didn't feel awkward.
It felt comforting.
A gentle breeze swept through the village.
Lyra glanced sideways.
"...So..."
Aizen looked at her.
"Hm?"
She smiled shyly.
"...Where are we going first?"
Aizen laughed quietly.
"Actually..."
"I don't know."
Lyra blinked.
"...You don't?"
He rubbed the back of his head.
"I've never been on a date before."
"So..."
"I'm just making this up as we go."
Lyra covered her mouth as a soft giggle escaped her lips.
"...Somehow..."
"That sounds exactly like you."
Aizen smiled.
"I'll take that as a compliment."
"It was."
The two laughed together.
The awkwardness that had existed earlier that morning gradually disappeared.
Instead...
They simply enjoyed each other's company.
As they continued through the village...
Aizen's stomach suddenly growled.
Grrrrr...
"..."
Lyra looked at him.
Aizen looked at Lyra.
Then both burst into laughter.
"I guess breakfast wasn't enough."
Aizen admitted with an embarrassed smile.
Lyra shook her head while laughing.
"You really do eat a lot."
"I have to."
"My body burns through energy too quickly."
"That's true."
She remembered the incredible speed and power he had displayed during every battle.
Maintaining that strength must have required an enormous amount of energy.
"So..."
Aizen asked curiously.
"What's your favorite food?"
Lyra thought for a moment.
"...Sweet things."
"Cakes."
"Fresh fruit."
"And anything juicy."
Aizen nodded thoughtfully.
"I should remember that."
She smiled.
"...Really?"
"Of course."
"If we're traveling together..."
"I should know what makes you happy."
Lyra's cheeks turned slightly pink.
"...You're saying things like that so naturally now."
Aizen blinked.
"...Did I?"
"You did."
He laughed awkwardly.
"I guess..."
"I'm still getting used to all of this."
"So am I."
They soon arrived at a lively section of the marketplace.
Various food stalls lined both sides of the road.
Grilled meat.
Fresh fruit.
Sweet pastries.
Warm soup.
Every direction carried a different delicious aroma.
Aizen's golden eyes wandered from stall to stall.
"...Everything smells amazing."
Lyra smiled knowingly.
"Your stomach agrees."
Just then...
A small stall decorated with colorful ribbons caught her attention.
The elderly woman behind the counter smiled warmly.
"Fresh cream puffs!"
"Filled with sweet vanilla cream!"
"Just made this morning!"
Lyra's eyes sparkled.
"...Cream puffs..."
Aizen noticed immediately.
"You want one?"
She hesitated.
"...Maybe..."
He smiled.
"Then let's buy some."
The old shopkeeper happily handed them two warm cream puffs wrapped in paper.
"Enjoy yourselves, you two."
"They're best while they're still warm."
"Thank you."
Aizen replied with a smile.
The two continued walking until they reached a quiet wooden bench overlooking a small fountain in the village square.
Aizen handed one cream puff to Lyra.
She accepted it carefully.
"...Thank you."
She took a small bite.
The soft pastry melted in her mouth.
Sweet cream spread across her tongue.
Her eyes immediately lit up.
"...Delicious."
Aizen smiled.
"I had a feeling you'd like it."
He bit into his own.
"...Not bad."
Lyra laughed.
"'Not bad?'"
"That's all you have to say?"
He shrugged playfully.
"I still like vegetables and roasted meat more and your cooking."
She giggled.
"I should have expected that."
For several peaceful minutes...
The two simply enjoyed their food together while watching the lively village around them.
Children laughed as they chased one another around the fountain.
Merchants greeted passing customers.
Musicians played cheerful melodies nearby.
It was...
Peace.
The kind of peaceful life neither of them had been able to experience for years.
Aizen quietly looked at Lyra.
Seeing her smiling so naturally...
Made him smile too.
"...I'm glad we came here."
Lyra looked back at him.
"...Me too."
Neither of them noticed...
Far across the rooftops...
A pair of cold blue eyes continued watching their every movement.
Hidden beneath a dark hood...
The mysterious dragon assassin silently followed them.
Waiting.
For the perfect opportunity to strike.
The peaceful afternoon continued.
After finishing their cream puffs, Aizen and Lyra resumed their walk through Mayana Village.
The bustling marketplace gradually gave way to quieter streets lined with flower gardens and small family-owned shops.
The two continued holding hands naturally.
The nervousness from earlier had almost completely disappeared.
Instead...
They simply enjoyed being together.
As they walked, Lyra looked up at Aizen with a curious smile.
"...Can I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"What kinds of food do you like the most?"
Aizen thought for a moment.
"...Probably roasted meat."
"But I also eat a lot of vegetables."
Lyra blinked.
"...Vegetables?"
He nodded.
"My body consumes a ridiculous amount of energy whenever I fight."
"If I only ate meat..."
"I'd probably collapse after training."
Lyra laughed softly.
"I didn't expect such a practical answer."
Aizen smiled.
"What about you?"
Lyra clasped her hands behind her back as she walked.
"I've always liked sweet things."
"Fresh fruit."
"Honey."
"Cakes."
"And anything that's sweet and juicy."
Aizen chuckled.
"So that's why you enjoyed the cream puff so much."
Lyra's cheeks turned slightly pink.
"...Maybe."
The two shared another quiet laugh.
As they continued strolling through the village...
Several children ran past them while playing tag.
One little girl accidentally bumped into Aizen before quickly apologizing.
"S-Sorry, Mister!"
Aizen smiled gently.
"It's alright."
"Be careful."
The little girl nodded enthusiastically before running back to her friends.
Lyra watched the scene with a warm smile.
"...You're surprisingly gentle."
Aizen tilted his head.
"Is that surprising?"
"A little."
She looked toward the laughing children.
"After seeing you fight..."
"I thought children might be scared of you."
Aizen looked down at his own hands.
"...I don't like frightening them."
"They deserve to smile."
Not suffer.
He quietly finished the sentence in his heart.
Images of the burning Black Lion Estate briefly resurfaced in his mind.
The terrified faces...
The screams...
The smoke rising into the sky...
His expression became slightly distant.
Lyra noticed.
"...Aizen?"
He blinked.
"...Hm?"
"You disappeared for a second."
Aizen smiled reassuringly.
"...Sorry."
"I was just thinking."
He didn't elaborate.
Just as before...
He kept the fragments of his past—and the dreams of Raizen and Miyako—to himself.
Lyra noticed his hesitation.
She wanted to ask.
But she remembered her promise to herself.
When Aizen was ready...
He would tell her.
Until then...
She would simply stay beside him.
The two continued walking.
After another few minutes...
Aizen suddenly stopped.
Lyra tilted her head.
"...What's wrong?"
A small smile appeared on his face.
"There's somewhere I'd like to take you."
Lyra's eyes brightened.
"A surprise?"
He nodded.
"I heard about it from one of the assistants at the inn."
"They said it's one of the most beautiful places near Mayana Village."
Lyra smiled excitedly.
"Then let's go."
Aizen looked at her with a playful grin.
"...Not yet."
"Hm?"
"I need you to trust me."
She blinked curiously.
"I do."
"Then..."
He reached into one of the small pouches attached to his belt.
Carefully...
He unfolded a clean white handkerchief.
Lyra looked at it in confusion.
"...What's that for?"
Aizen smiled.
"I want the surprise to be genuine."
"So..."
"Could you cover your eyes for a little while?"
Lyra stared at him for a moment.
Then...
Without the slightest hesitation...
She nodded.
"...Alright."
"I trust you."
Aizen gently tied the soft handkerchief around her eyes, making sure it wasn't too tight.
"...Can you see anything?"
Lyra shook her head.
"...Nothing."
"Perfect."
She smiled happily.
"I wonder what you're planning."
Aizen chuckled.
"You'll find out soon."
He gently took her hand once more.
"Just follow my lead."
"...Okay."
The two began walking again.
Lyra relied completely on Aizen's guidance.
Every step...
Every turn...
She followed without fear.
Because she trusted him completely.
As they turned onto a quieter street...
Aizen's ears suddenly twitched.
His golden eyes shifted almost imperceptibly toward the rooftops.
"..."
There.
A faint presence.
Someone was watching them.
He didn't stop walking.
Instead...
He calmly continued leading Lyra forward as though nothing had happened.
Out of the corner of his eye...
He caught a glimpse of a figure dressed in black.
Blue-scaled armor peeked through the folds of the cloak.
A dragonkin.
"...So they finally caught up."
Aizen thought silently.
Without alarming Lyra...
His right hand moved ever so slightly.
A long black spear materialized soundlessly in his grasp.
In one impossibly smooth motion—
He threw it.
WHOOSH!!
The spear cut through the air like a bolt of black lightning.
A muffled gasp echoed from the rooftop.
THUD!
The hidden dragon assassin was pierced cleanly through the chest before he could even draw his weapon.
His eyes widened in disbelief.
"...H-How..."
The black spear dissolved into countless particles of light.
The assassin's body slumped backward, disappearing behind the rooftop without another sound.
Aizen quietly exhaled.
"...They're gone."
Lyra tilted her head beneath the blindfold.
"Hm?"
"...Did you say something?"
Aizen smiled gently.
"...Nothing."
"Let's keep going."
Completely unaware that Aizen had just eliminated a deadly threat without allowing the peaceful atmosphere of their first date to be disturbed...
Lyra simply smiled.
"...Okay."
Hand in hand...
They continued walking toward the surprise that awaited them.
Aizen gently guided Lyra away from the lively streets of Mayana Village.
The sounds of merchants calling out their goods slowly faded behind them.
Instead...
The gentle rustling of leaves and the cheerful songs of birds filled the air.
Lyra smiled beneath the handkerchief covering her eyes.
She couldn't see anything.
Yet somehow...
She wasn't worried.
She trusted Aizen completely.
After walking for several minutes...
A cool breeze brushed against her face.
The scent carried by the wind changed.
Instead of baked bread and bustling streets...
She smelled fresh grass.
Wildflowers.
And the faint fragrance of blooming petals.
Lyra's nose twitched slightly.
"...Where are we, Aizen?"
Aizen smiled as he looked ahead.
"We're a little outside the village."
"This is a place one of the inn's assistants told me about."
"I honestly couldn't believe a place like this existed near Mayana Village."
Lyra tilted her head curiously.
"Can I take the handkerchief off now?"
Aizen looked toward the path ahead.
They were almost there.
"...Not yet."
"We're close."
Lyra nodded obediently.
"...Alright."
The two continued walking.
A narrow trail of flowers stretched before them.
Countless blossoms swayed gently beneath the afternoon breeze, creating waves of pink, white, and violet across the meadow.
Sunlight filtered softly through the branches overhead.
At the very center of the field...
A magnificent tree stood proudly.
Its wide branches were covered in thousands of brilliant purple blossoms.
Petals drifted gracefully through the air like violet snow.
It was a Jacaranda Tree.
Ancient.
Beautiful.
Standing silently as if it had watched over this meadow for centuries.
Aizen stopped walking.
A gentle smile appeared on his face.
"...We're here."
He carefully untied the handkerchief from Lyra's eyes.
"You can look now."
Lyra slowly opened her eyes.
"...I have a feeling..."
"...it's something beautiful..."
The moment her vision cleared...
She froze.
Before her stretched an endless sea of flowers.
The purple Jacaranda towered proudly at the center of the meadow, while countless petals danced upon the wind beneath the clear blue sky.
The entire landscape looked almost unreal.
"..."
Her ocean-blue eyes widened.
"Aizen..."
She took a slow step forward.
"...This..."
"...is so beautiful."
She looked around in complete amazement.
"It's been so many years..."
"...since I've seen a place this breathtaking."
She gently brushed her fingertips across the blooming flowers beside the path.
"They're so well cared for..."
"The villagers must treasure this place."
Aizen quietly watched her smile.
Seeing the joy in her eyes...
Made every bit of effort worthwhile.
"I had a feeling..."
"...you would like it."
Lyra turned toward him.
Her smile was brighter than the sunlight itself.
"I don't just like it..."
"I love it."
She laughed happily before spinning once beneath the falling purple petals.
The breeze carried her silver hair behind her like flowing silk.
For a brief moment...
Aizen forgot to breathe.
"...Beautiful..."
he whispered unconsciously.
Lyra looked back at him.
"Hm?"
Aizen quickly looked away.
"N-Nothing."
She giggled.
"You were staring again."
"I..."
"...I couldn't help it."
Her cheeks turned a soft shade of pink.
She smiled shyly before kneeling beside a cluster of flowers.
"Look at these..."
"They smell wonderful."
She leaned down, closing her eyes as she inhaled their sweet fragrance.
The peaceful sight before Aizen made his heart race.
He slowly walked toward her.
Without saying a word...
He gently wrapped both arms around her from behind.
Lyra stiffened slightly in surprise.
"...Aizen?"
She softly placed one hand over his.
"...What's wrong?"
Aizen rested his forehead lightly against her shoulder.
For a few moments...
Neither of them spoke.
Only the wind answered.
Finally...
He broke the silence.
"...Can you feel it?"
Lyra blinked.
"...Feel what?"
"My heartbeat."
"It's getting faster..."
"...and faster."
"The more time I spend with you..."
"The more I think about you..."
"I realized..."
"I've been falling in love without even noticing."
His voice was calm.
Gentle.
Completely honest.
Lyra's eyes slowly widened.
A warm smile spread across her face as tears of happiness gathered in the corners of her eyes.
"...Me too."
She turned around until they faced each other beneath the blooming Jacaranda.
"My heart races whenever you're near."
"I get jealous sometimes..."
"...when I see you paying attention to someone else."
She laughed softly through her embarrassment.
"I know it's childish..."
"But..."
"I couldn't stop those feelings."
She reached out and gently held both of Aizen's hands.
"...I'm just happy..."
"...that we finally understood each other's hearts."
Aizen smiled warmly.
"I love you, Lyra."
The words came naturally.
Without hesitation.
Without fear.
Lyra's smile became even brighter.
"...I love you too, Aizen."
For a brief moment...
The world itself seemed to grow quiet.
The wind slowed.
Purple petals drifted gently around them.
The brilliant afternoon sun shone through the branches of the Jacaranda.
Slowly...
They stepped closer.
Their foreheads almost touched.
Neither of them looked away.
Then...
With hearts beating as one...
Aizen gently leaned forward.
Lyra closed her eyes.
And beneath the beautiful purple tree...
Surrounded by countless flowers dancing in the breeze...
The two shared...
Their very first kiss.
It was gentle.
Warm.
And filled with every feeling they had kept hidden for years.
Far away...
The wind quietly carried violet petals across the endless field.
As if nature itself...
Was celebrating the beginning of their new journey together.
End of Chapter 10