Chapter 30: Gift for you
Captain Elara and Synoh moved through the bustling capital marketplace like a pair on a serious mission. Their steps were in sync, their expressions focused—discussing prices, quality, and usefulness of each item. The way they coordinated and talked gave off a strong aura… almost like a married couple preparing their home.
A few vendors and passersby whispered with knowing smirks.
"Isn't that Captain Elara of Division 10?"
"And that's the dark-haired prodigy… Synoh, right?"
"They look… close, don't they?"
"A knight couple? That's rare…"
Elara, unaware of the gossip swirling around them, turned to Synoh with her usual composed tone.
"What else do you need to buy?"
Synoh shook his head. "Nothing."
Suddenly, Fel's voice echoed in his mind.
"You forgot about magic accessories. Especially something to stop your magic from going berserk again."
Synoh paused, then corrected himself. "Actually… I should check out some magic accessories."
Inside the magic shop, Synoh searched for something that could help regulate his unstable magic. He found a sleek black ring engraved with faint silver runes—it limited the flow of magic from the wearer, perfect to prevent dark magic overload.
While he negotiated the price, his eyes briefly wandered—catching Captain Elara staring at a shimmering silver-blue necklace displayed inside a glass case. The jewel was modest but elegant, clearly something she liked. But when she checked the price tag, she quietly turned away and said nothing.
After paying for the ring, Synoh walked back to the counter and, while Elara browsed elsewhere, secretly bought another necklace—not the expensive one, but a beautiful piece with delicate floral carvings and a warm golden finish.
As they returned to the Division 10 base, the sun dipped behind the rooftops, casting the capital in orange light.
"Looks like it's time to rest," Elara said with a soft yawn, her fatigue finally showing.
Before she could walk away, Synoh stopped her and pulled something from his pocket.
"This… is for you."
Elara blinked in surprise as Synoh handed her the necklace wrapped in simple cloth.
"I know it's not the one you were looking at… but I thought this one's design really suited you," Synoh added, his tone quieter than usual.
Elara gently unwrapped it, revealing the beautiful necklace. Her eyes widened slightly, then softened.
She touched it delicately, her fingers brushing over the carved detail.
"…Thank you, Synoh," she said, her voice warm, cheeks tinged pink.
She turned away quickly, clutching the necklace close.
But for a brief moment, a rare and genuine smile curved her lips.