Let's Train Heroine

Despite the harrowing attack by the Krakenor during the previous day's boat tour, the exploration of the Fairy Cave had concluded on a hopeful note. By the time Lucan and Maris returned to the port, the sky was painted with the hues of the setting sun, signaling the end of another eventful day. The couple made their way back to the hotel, their spirits high despite the recent ordeal.

The hotel was a welcoming refuge, offering a warm bath and a sumptuous dinner. Lucan and Maris enjoyed their meal in the hotel restaurant, a quaint and cozy space that provided a perfect end to their day. As they dined, Lucan couldn't help but notice how Maris seemed to unwind, her usual composure softening into a relaxed demeanor.

When the night fell, they retired to their rooms. The events of the day had exhausted them, and the comfort of their bed was a welcome respite. They both fell asleep with thoughts of the adventures yet to come.

---

The third day of their trip dawned clear and bright. Lucan awoke early, the sunlight filtering through the curtains of his room. He stretched his limbs, shaking off the remnants of sleep as he considered the day's plans. Today was to be a free day with no specific itinerary, a perfect opportunity for spontaneous fun.

As he dressed, he heard the soft rustle of Maris stirring in her room next door. Her usual morning routine was a sight to behold. When she emerged in her nightgown, her disheveled attire barely concealed her underwear. Despite the casual appearance, there was a certain grace to her movements, and her smile was a welcome sight.

"Good morning, Lucan-sama," Maris greeted him cheerfully.

"Oh, good morning," Lucan replied, returning her smile.

The two of them stood by the window, gazing out at the bright morning. Lucan turned to Maris with a thoughtful expression. "Maris, is there anywhere you'd like to go today?"

Maris considered the question for a moment before responding. "I don't mind anywhere, as long as it's with you, Lucan-sama."

"That's very kind of you... However, we don't have any particular plans for today. We could go swimming again, but..."

Maris's face brightened at the mention of swimming, but then she furrowed her brow, deep in thought. "Hmm... a barbecue..."

"A barbecue?" Lucan asked, intrigued.

"Yes. A friend at the academy mentioned it. They said barbecues at campsites are really delicious."

Maris's enthusiasm was infectious. Lucan nodded thoughtfully. "A barbecue, huh? Sounds good."

Lucan had never experienced a barbecue in his previous life; he had always been more of an indoor person. However, given the opportunities and changes in his new life, he was eager to try new experiences.

"I've had meals during camping in school, but I've never done a barbecue just for fun. Since it's a special occasion, let's give it a try," Lucan said, his voice filled with anticipation.

Maris's face lit up with a bright smile. "Yes. I'm looking forward to eating outside."

With their plan set, the couple made their way to the concierge desk to inquire about barbecue arrangements. The hotel staff directed them to a nearby shop that specialized in renting barbecue equipment and selling ingredients. The shop also offered guidance on setting up the barbecue, making it convenient for first-timers like Lucan and Maris.

---

The shop was a short walk from the hotel, nestled on a quieter street away from the bustling beach area. As they approached, Lucan noticed the store's somewhat cluttered but welcoming appearance.

"I'll just be a moment. Please wait outside," Lucan said to Maris as he entered the shop.

"Okay, understood," Maris replied, her eyes scanning the various items displayed in the shop window.

Inside, Lucan was greeted by a burly store clerk with a friendly demeanor. "Welcome! Barbecue, huh?"

"Yes. We need supplies for two people," Lucan said, explaining their needs.

"Got it. Will you be renting the barbecue equipment?" the clerk asked.

"Yes, please provide a full set and the ingredients."

The clerk handed Lucan a menu with different barbecue courses. There were two main options: the "Gold" course and the "Silver" course. The Gold course included magical items that made starting the fire and cooking easier, while the Silver course was more basic.

"I'll go with the Gold course," Lucan decided, recognizing that the magical assistance would be beneficial for novices like them.

"Got it. The ingredients can be bought at the supermarket next door. You can choose whatever you like. The barbecue spots are either the beach or the forest behind it, but the beach will be crowded during the day, so the forest is recommended."

"Thank you," Lucan said, accepting the barbecue equipment from the clerk.

Maris was waiting outside as Lucan emerged from the shop, carrying the equipment. "Oh, welcome back," she greeted him.

"The clerk said to buy the ingredients at the supermarket next door. I'll set this up in the forest behind us. Could you pick out the ingredients first?" Lucan asked.

"Yes, I'll pick some out," Maris replied, heading towards the supermarket.

Lucan made his way to the forest, a short distance from the beach. The forest was a picturesque location, resembling a well-maintained campsite with tents, barbecue setups, and people enjoying various activities. He found a suitable spot, spreading a leisure sheet on the ground and placing the barbecue equipment on it.

After ensuring the setup was secure, Lucan returned to the supermarket where Maris was already selecting ingredients. The supermarket was a small but well-stocked store, with fresh produce, meats, and various barbecue essentials neatly arranged.

Inside the small, quaint store, Maris was waiting with a shopping basket brimming with a colorful assortment of food and drink. The basket contained an impressive array of items: juicy cuts of meat, fresh vegetables, glistening fish, and shellfish, including scallops and sea snails. The vibrant colors and varied textures of the ingredients hinted at the feast that was about to unfold.

"Oh, Lucan-sama. I've been waiting for you," Maris greeted him with a bright smile as he entered the store.