CHAPTER 389: DATE

Now alone with Fiora, Orion gently turned his gaze toward her, his voice soft and inviting as he carefully asked, "What do you think about going out for some fun, Fiora?"

Fiora’s eyes widened briefly in surprise, a faint blush spreading across her cheeks. Quickly composing herself, she shyly nodded her head, "Y-Yes, I would like that. Let me go and t-tell Rina about this."

As she moved to rise, Orion reached out gently, his fingers softly encircling her delicate wrist. Fiora paused immediately, her heartbeat quickening at the contact. Orion shook his head lightly, a warm, comforting expression upon his face.

"No, this time, only you and I will be going," he softly clarified, his voice filled with reassuring warmth.

Fiora’s eyes widened again, surprise and shyness mingling deeply within her gentle gaze. Her voice grew quieter, soft and hesitant, filled with worry for her friend, "B-But... Rina might feel hurt by this."

Orion chuckled softly, releasing her wrist with a gentle squeeze, his tone reassuring, "I already discussed this with her. Don’t worry. She understands."

Relief visibly relaxed Fiora’s posture. With a shy, hesitant nod, she softly responded, "Then... I’ll go and change clothes."

Orion smiled warmly, nodding his approval, "We’ll head out as soon as you’re ready."

Fiora quickly left the room, closing the door softly behind her. Orion shook his head gently, feeling both amused and touched by her innocent nature.

At that moment, Lumi’s glowing screen energetically popped up directly in front of his face.

[You need to dress appropriately, Master! (｡•̀ᴗ-)✧]

Orion chuckled lightly at her enthusiasm, gently nodding in agreement. "I know, I know."

Moving swiftly, he headed toward the bathroom. The warm, calming water quickly washed away the dust from his busy morning, soothing and refreshing him thoroughly. After a brief yet rejuvenating bath, he emerged feeling energized and ready.

Stepping in front of the large mirror, Orion paused momentarily, his gaze meeting the striking reflection before him.

His well-defined physique displayed clearly, toned muscles highlighted subtly in the gentle sunlight filtering through the curtains.

His unique heterochromatic eyes, one deep, enigmatic purple, the other vibrant, fiery red, looked at himself with amusement.

Carefully, he ran his fingers through his deep black hair, ensuring it was neatly combed before gathering it back elegantly and tying it securely.

Opening his wardrobe, Orion selected clothing befitting a casual yet refined outing: a comfortable dark tunic threaded with subtle silver patterns and matching trousers, paired with soft yet sturdy leather boots.

He straightened the cuffs carefully, ensuring everything appeared just right. He took a final glance at the mirror, nodding approvingly, satisfied with his appearance.

As Orion stepped out of his room, he was immediately greeted by the gentle fragrance of freshly bloomed flowers drifting through the halls.

Walking toward the mansion’s foyer, he caught sight of Fiora already waiting shyly near the entrance, clearly having taken special care with her appearance.

She wore an elegant yet simple pale-blue dress that flowed gracefully to her knees, accentuating her curvaceous figure, with her blond hair delicately styled to frame her gentle, slightly flushed face.

Her clear, bright red eyes rose shyly to meet Orion’s gaze as he approached, her gentle smile radiating warmth and anticipation.

Orion returned her smile warmly, extending his hand gently toward her. "You look lovely, Fiora. Shall we go?"

Fiora nodded softly, her cheeks glowing warmly as she carefully placed her small, delicate hand into his. "Yes, Master."

Walking together, the two of them exited the mansion and headed towards the prepared carriage with Lucan outside.

Orion and Fiora walked leisurely through the large gardens nestled within the quiet, exclusive park of the Second Ring.

Normally, only high-ranking nobles or their heirs come here, however today the gardens stood serene and almost entirely empty, as though reserved solely for the two of them.

Lucan had respectfully remained outside, ensuring their privacy while discreetly standing guard.

The delicate fragrance of blossoms filled the air, mingling gently with the freshness of trimmed grass, lending the surroundings an atmosphere of tranquil serenity.

Orion watched Fiora from the corner of his eyes, smiling softly at the genuine delight illuminating her gentle features.

She moved slowly, her eyes sparkling with joy and fascination, quietly gasping whenever she spotted a particularly beautiful or rare flower.

"This one is so lovely, Master!" Fiora softly exclaimed, pausing by a cluster of exquisite lavender roses. Her fingertips gently brushed over velvety petals, her expression filled with innocent awe.

Orion stepped beside her, appreciating the simple happiness radiating from her face. His tone carried quiet warmth as he replied, "Indeed, but they pale in comparison to your smile."

Fiora’s face flushed deeply at his gentle teasing, her eyes shyly lowering. "M-Master always says such embarrassing things..."

Orion chuckled softly, stepping forward to gently tuck a stray lock of golden hair behind her ear. "Only because it’s true."

Her heart fluttered at his touch, her blush intensifying, yet she didn’t move away, quietly savoring the comforting intimacy of their exchange.

Together, they continued strolling through the peaceful gardens, enjoying quiet conversations and pleasant silences alike, each step deepening their mutual ease and closeness.

After thoroughly enjoying the gardens’ beauty, Orion gently guided Fiora out of the elegant tranquility of the Second Ring, leading her toward the bustling Market District of the Fourth Ring.

The atmosphere gradually shifted, becoming livelier, filled with vibrant stalls, cheerful vendors, and the delicious aroma of freshly baked pastries and fragrant teas.

Orion noticed Fiora’s eyes instantly brighten at the lively atmosphere, excitement clearly radiating from her as they approached a charming tea stall decorated with delicate lace and intricate porcelain cups.

With a warm smile, Orion selected a cozy corner table, inviting Fiora to sit as he ordered some of the teas and pastries Rina had previously recommended.

Sitting comfortably together, they savored the sweet pastries, sipping tea while exchanging small talk filled with gentle laughter.

Fiora’s initial shyness slowly melted away, replaced by a relaxed openness as she spoke excitedly about her daily life, quietly sharing amusing anecdotes involving Rina and Selene.

"This pastry is incredible, Master," Fiora softly declared, savoring each bite. "I’ve never tasted something so delicious."

Orion laughed gently at her earnest delight. "I’m glad you like it. We can come here again anytime."

Fiora smiled brightly, nodding eagerly, "I’d love that very much."

When they had their fill, Orion gently took her hand again, guiding her away from the lively marketplace toward a quieter, more secluded part of the city in the Fifth Ring where a peaceful river flowed softly along the city’s edge.

The water sparkled gently under the late-afternoon sunlight, the calming sound of the flowing river providing a soothing backdrop.

Orion and Fiora walked slowly along the riverbank, their conversation quieter now, interspersed with comfortable silences.

Fiora’s eyes were thoughtful, gazing softly across the water, reflecting the tranquility around them. Orion quietly watched her, knowing the importance of these peaceful moments, especially considering what he had to reveal to her later.

Noticing his thoughtful expression, Fiora tilted her head slightly, softly asking, "Is something on your mind, Master?"

Orion shook his head slightly, smiling reassuringly, "No, just appreciating the moment."

She nodded gently, smiling softly as she quietly said, "Me too... Thank you, Master, for today. It means a lot."

Orion gently squeezed her hand, silently communicating his understanding. "You deserve days like these, Fiora."

As the sun began its gradual descent, casting golden-orange hues across the serene landscape, Orion finally guided Fiora back toward their waiting carriage.

They rode back to the mansion comfortably, the quiet ride filled with contentment, each silently cherishing the day’s memories.

Arriving at the mansion, Orion gently helped Fiora down from the carriage, escorting her to the entrance with a gentle smile.

Fiora softly returned his smile, her face aglow with genuine happiness as she murmured shyly, "Thank you again for today, Master."

Orion nodded gently, his face holding a gentle smile. "Let’s head inside. I have some things I want to discuss with you."