25.A Day at the Market and the Cooking Contest

After completing their mission in Sairent, Merslin and his party decided to take a well-earned break. They set off toward the bustling marketplace, eager to unwind and enjoy a leisurely day. Once their shopping was done, they planned to hold a friendly cooking contest to make the day even more memorable.

As they stepped into the market, the lively chatter of vendors, the rich aroma of spices, and the dazzling display of goods welcomed them. The streets were filled with performers, merchants, and the scent of sizzling street food.

Lisa stretched her arms with excitement. "This place is incredible! Let's split up and get what we need."

Serena smirked. "Sounds good. Let's see who the best cook is after we gather our ingredients."

Elena turned to Merslin, her gaze warm and inviting. "Merslin, want to check out the spice shop with me? We might find something interesting for our dish… or maybe even something magical."

Merslin chuckled, meeting her eyes. "That sounds like a great idea. Exploring new ingredients with you is always fun."

Lisa headed toward the weapon shop, carefully inspecting new swords while bargaining with a merchant. Serena wandered into a jewelry store, admiring the glistening accessories. Meanwhile, Aria visited an herbalist, selecting medicinal herbs for her healing magic.

At the spice shop, Elena picked up a small jar, rolling it between her fingers before holding it up to Merslin.

"This one has an incredibly unique scent. I think it'll make our dish stand out."

Merslin leaned in slightly, his gaze locked on the small bottle. Their hands brushed against each other as he took the jar, sending a faint warmth up Elena's fingertips.

"You're right," he murmured. "With the right balance, it'll enhance the dish perfectly."

Elena stole a glance at him, amused by how seriously he examined the spice. Merslin, so focused and thoughtful even in something as simple as cooking… A small smile touched her lips as she thought, Cooking together with him might be more enjoyable than I expected.

The Cooking Contest Begins

With their ingredients in hand, the party moved to a nearby park, setting up a campfire for their cooking battle.

Lisa confidently grabbed some high-quality meat, her competitive spirit shining through. "Get ready to be amazed. My cooking is going to blow you all away."

Serena began preparing a fresh vegetable salad, her expression playful. "A healthy meal can be just as good. Let's see if you can match my finesse."

Elena and Merslin worked side by side, using magic to enhance their dessert recipe.

Merslin glanced at Elena, the flickering firelight reflecting in her eyes. "I think what we're making together is going to be something special."

Elena felt a faint blush rise to her cheeks but smiled. "I agree. I never thought I'd enjoy cooking like this… but with you, it's actually fun."

Aria, meanwhile, prepared a nourishing herbal dish, her voice gentle. "I made something that will keep everyone healthy. I hope you all like it."

As the contest began, the group focused on perfecting their dishes. Lisa expertly grilled the meat to perfection, Serena carefully arranged fresh greens, and Merslin and Elena combined magic and skill to craft a delicate, beautifully plated dessert.

Lisa, ever the tease, smirked as she handled the meat. "Hmm… so this is the udder cut. Merslin, you've always had a taste for premium cuts, haven't you?"

Merslin instantly turned red. "W-what?! That's not what I—!"

Serena burst into laughter, nudging him playfully. "Merslin, were you getting a little too into cooking with Elena?"

Merslin waved his hands frantically. "No! I was just focusing on the food!"

Elena, trying not to laugh, brushed her hair back. "Lisa, Serena, you two should stop teasing him. More importantly, our dessert is almost ready."

Lisa grinned. "Alright, alright. But I have to admit, I'm looking forward to your dish."

Merslin reached out, gently placing his hand over Elena's as she put the finishing touch on their creation.

"This turned out amazing, Elena. I'm really glad we made this together."

Elena's fingers curled slightly under his touch, her heartbeat picking up. She hesitated, then looked up at him, her voice softer than before. "Me too, Merslin. I feel like… when I'm with you, even something as simple as cooking feels special."

The Feast & Unspoken Feelings

With the food finally ready, the group gathered around and tasted each other's dishes.

Lisa took a bite of her own grilled meat, stretching her arms behind her head with confidence. "Mine was obviously the best, right?"

Serena flicked a small piece of lettuce at her. "Don't be so sure. My dish was healthy and delicious!"

Aria giggled as she held up her bowl. "But my herbal dish is the best for your health, so that means I win!"

Merslin took a bite of the magical dessert he and Elena had made, nodding in satisfaction.

"Elena, this is incredible. But honestly, I think the best part of today wasn't just the food—it was cooking together."

Elena's smile softened, her gaze lingering on him. "I agree. I'd love to do this again sometime, just the two of us."

Lisa leaned back and stretched. "Today was perfect. Shopping, cooking, and the contest—what more could we ask for?"

Serena nodded, flashing a smirk. "Yeah, it was fun. But I think what's even more interesting is how close Merslin and Elena seem to be getting~."

Merslin coughed, nearly choking on his dessert, while Elena simply let out a soft chuckle. "Oh, Serena, you love stirring up trouble, don't you?"

Aria clasped her hands together, her voice warm. "As long as we support each other, we'll always have moments like these."

Merslin looked at his companions, his heart full. He knew the journey ahead would be difficult, but as long as they stood together, they could face anything.

"No matter what comes next, as long as we have each other, we'll be fine."

Elena lowered her gaze for a moment, then, as if making up her mind, gently intertwined her fingers with Merslin's for just a fleeting second before pulling away.

A subtle but undeniable warmth lingered between them.

The day had been one of rest, but for Merslin and Elena, it had also been a moment of unspoken emotions and possibilities yet to unfold.