Central Orario, Central Plaza.
Just outside the northern gate of Babel Tower.
Standing like a porcelain doll, Ais stood still, her cheeks tinged a soft red from embarrassment.
Her head was slightly lowered.
Tonight's outfit—
A white cropped top paired with a purple mini skirt.
Her long, slender legs were wrapped in adorable, enticing white over-the-knee socks,
accented with embroidered flower patterns that enhanced her natural beauty.
Though it was just a simple outfit—
On her, paired with her beautiful golden hair, the effect was striking.
It was flawless.
The outfit had been picked out by Lefiya earlier that day while they were shopping at a human clothing store.
"I'm here, Miss Ais!"
"Sorry to keep you waiting!"
Lefiya ran over, holding a small decorative gift bag and a clear glass bottle.
Her outfit was just as eye-catching—
A black pleated JK-style skirt, paired with white thigh-high stockings and black leather shoes.
A thin white long-sleeve top completed the look, making her seem especially youthful and fresh—
Like a tiny fairy.
"...Lefiya."
"Do I... look strange like this?"
Ais, who would never usually wear anything so cute, fidgeted uncomfortably.
"Not at all!"
"It suits you perfectly, Miss Ais!"
Lefiya quickly reassured her.
As the clock neared 8, she glanced around in slight confusion.
"Huh?"
"Is Mr. Raven not here yet?"
"...Mm."
Ais nodded lightly.
"I'm here, I'm here."
"Right on time, aren't I?"
Raven suddenly appeared from the crowd and walked toward them.
And then—
When his gaze fell on Ais, his eyes widened ever so slightly.
Her fair skin looked especially smooth and soft.
Her graceful curves were highlighted by the outfit, showcasing her figure in full.
She wasn't wearing any armor, nor carrying a sword at her waist.
Her cherry-colored lips parted as if to speak, but she said nothing in the end.
"Ais, that outfit looks great on you."
"Lefiya, you look adorable too—like a vibrant, youthful schoolgirl."
Raven couldn't help but compliment them.
The blush on Ais's cheeks deepened.
And Lefiya was no exception.
"Mr. Raven, here—this is for you."
Lefiya offered him the gift bag she was carrying.
"Hm? What's this?"
Curious, Raven opened it and pulled out—
A stylish blue cloak.
"This... is for me?"
"Mm-hm. Just a little something."
"I picked it out while we were shopping for clothes earlier..."
Lefiya spoke shyly.
"Then thank you, Lefiya."
Raven didn't refuse—he tried it on right in front of them.
He adjusted the collar.
Just then, a cool evening breeze swept past, making the cloak billow dramatically behind him.
"Wow, Mr. Raven looks so cool!"
"You've got that 'hero returning from battle' vibe, right Miss Ais?"
Lefiya looked like a fangirl, eyes sparkling with admiration.
"...Yes. Very cool."
Ais nodded slightly.
"Oh right, Miss Ais, Mr. Raven—"
"Try this."
Lefiya took out the glass bottle.
Inside, three small crystal-like candies glistened on a thin branch.
"Crystal... candy?"
Ais recognized them at a glance.
"Yes. They're my personal stash."
Lefiya popped open the lid and gently plucked off two of the crystal candies.
"These must be expensive, right?"
Raven asked.
"It's fine—here, please try them."
Ais took one and placed it in her mouth.
"Here, Mr. Raven."
Lefiya pinched one between her fingers and offered it.
"Then... feed me."
Raven didn't take it with his hand—instead, he opened his mouth slightly.
Lefiya's cheeks turned red, but she gently placed the candy in his mouth.
Raven chewed a few times.
Hmm...
A cool minty flavor.
A strong sweetness mixed with a refreshing chill quickly spread across his palate.
"How is it?"
Lefiya hadn't tasted one herself—she just watched their expressions, eyes curious and expectant.
"...Yup. Delicious," Ais answered first.
"Tastes great. Thanks," Raven said with a smile.
"Yay."
Lefiya beamed, her eyes forming little crescent moons.
"In that case... why don't we skip training tonight?"
"Let's go for a walk together."
The night was beautiful.
The lights of Orario's magic stone lamps painted the labyrinth city in a breathtaking glow.
Since arriving in this world, Raven hadn't really explored the city.
There were still so many places left unseen.
Like—
The Hero's Bridge.
Located in District 5's entertainment zone, directly behind the trading hub.
"Is there somewhere you want to go, Mr. Raven?"
Lefiya asked, puzzled.
Raven looked southwest and replied:
"Let's head to the Hero's Bridge in the southwest."
"I've never been."
"...Then, let's go."
Dressed in this outfit, even Ais no longer felt like sparring or training.
---
Access more chapters at patreon.com/dzeref887