Aya swung her legs happily beneath the table, savoring the delicate sweetness of the cake.
"It's true…" she sighed, staring at the dessert as if it were a long-lost treasure.
Nine sipped his tea beside her, watching her fondly.
"These are the same ones we have at home," she murmured. "I just realized—this is where we get our deliveries from."
Nine smirked. "I know."
Aya rolled her eyes, feigning exasperation. "Let me at least pretend I don't."
He merely scoffed, his fingers absentmindedly tracing circles at her waist. "You haven't bought anything."
"I haven't found anything I like yet. Maybe I'll see something while we pick out gifts for the boys."
"I could prepare something for them anytime, but I figured you'd want to look together." Nine leaned back, eyeing her. "You've only explored half the market. I'll guide you this time."
Aya's face brightened. "I'd love that. It's more fun together."
Nine nodded. "I left you alone to enjoy some time by yourself."
She scoffed, lifting a spoonful of cake toward him. "But I want you by my side."
He accepted the bite without hesitation, his lips curling slightly as he swallowed.
The second floor of the shop offered privacy, each table separated by elegant partitions. The space opened to a balcony, where a soft breeze carried the distant hum of the marketplace. Above them, intricate plum blossom carvings adorned the overhanging roof, their craftsmanship so fine it felt almost alive. The air was fragrant, a blend of tea, sweets, and the crisp scent of the late afternoon.
Nine observed her quietly before speaking. "We still have time after this. Should we visit the bathhouse? The springwaters? Or…" He paused for effect. "Perhaps a stroll through the brothels?"
Aya nearly choked on her tea. "What could I possibly look for in a brothel? I've already seen enough 'pets' for a lifetime."
"Perhaps you'd gain a deeper understanding of desire," he mused, watching her reaction.
Aya scoffed. "Nine, if there's anyone who understands desire, it's you."
Nine chuckled, lowering his head to accept another bite of cake. "We'll see."
Aya wiped her lips and leaned forward. "Actually, I want to visit the Black Market Pagoda."
Nine's brow arched. "No."
"But you're with me!"
He crossed his arms, leaning back. "No."
"I just want to observe."
Nine stared at her, unamused.
"In exchange…" Aya tilted her head playfully. "I won't pull your hair."
Nine barked a laugh. "That's an empty promise." He sighed, shaking his head. "I spoil you too much."
Aya batted her lashes at him, eyes wide and pleading. "Thank chuuu~" She cupped his face and brushed their noses together.
Nine smirked, pinching her cheek. "You're already thanking me when I haven't said yes."
Aya grinned. "Because I know you will."
Nine exhaled in defeat. "Just a peek. That's it."
"Hm. I just want to see the inside," she promised.
They lingered a little longer, enjoying their tea and cakes before setting out again, veils and cloaks concealing their identities.
With their hands intertwined, they strolled through the bustling streets, exploring stalls Aya hadn't seen yet. Lanterns swayed overhead, casting warm glows along the cobbled paths. The air was thick with the aroma of sizzling meats, fragrant spices, and honeyed treats. Laughter and chatter wove into the melody of a distant string instrument, while street performers captivated crowds with their tricks and dances.
Aya absorbed it all—each scent, each sound, each flicker of life—her heart swelling with an emotion she couldn't quite name.
Nine, ever watchful, kept his gaze on her, following wherever her curiosity led.
Eventually, the vibrant marketplace transitioned into a quieter, more refined district. It felt like stepping into another world, yet all were woven into the same city.
"This area is where the inns are," Nine explained. "They're arranged in tiers—outer for commoners, middle for those with wealth, and the inner ring for nobles and the truly rich. Though they're separated by status, they all share the same view of the sun."
Aya blinked, taking in his words.
No matter where one stood in life, the sun shone upon them just the same.
She tilted her head, watching the afternoon sun hang lower in the sky. A quiet smile graced her lips.
"If…" she hesitated, then softly continued, "if you and I were to die someday, I want you to look for me."
Nine stopped walking. His gaze settled on her, unwavering.
"...I'll make sure of it."
Aya's breath hitched. She had expected sarcasm, a joke—something to break the weight of her words. But Nine's response was steady, certain, like an oath carved into stone.
A tear slipped down her cheek before she could stop it. She wiped it away quickly, hoping he hadn't noticed.
Nine frowned, tilting his head. "What's this sudden pain in my chest, huh? Are you sad?"
Aya immediately smacked his arm. "No! I just miss the boys already."
Nine narrowed his eyes, unconvinced. But instead of pressing, he reached beneath his robes and pulled out a strip of beef jerky.
Aya stared. "Do you… always carry meat on you?"
"It's for moments like this," Nine said simply, holding it out.
Aya huffed but took a bite. "Is this my treat every time I feel down?"
Nine chuckled, amused.
"As we're already in this district, we'll reach the bathhouses soon," he noted. "Shall we continue, or would you rather head straight to the Pagoda?"
Aya tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Bathhouses…? It's not much different from the palace ones. Let's go ahead to the Pagoda."
Nine gave her a knowing smirk. "Aren't you tired? Your legs were staggering this morning."
Aya huffed and stretched her leg. "I'm fine now."
Nine's smirk deepened.
Aya caught on instantly. "Oh, no, what's that look for—"
Too late. His hand snaked to her side, fingers pressing into her ribs teasingly. She yelped, pinching his arm in retaliation.
Nine flinched but laughed, shaking his head. "Let's go, then."
Hand in hand, they walked into the unknown, their shadows merging beneath the waning sun.