Chapter 12: EX 12. Arts
The morning after their intimate reunion, Leon and Elizabeth awoke tangled in warmth and the temptation to stay in bed all day. But after some playful teasing and mutual groaning about responsibilities, they finally dragged themselves up.
Leon, in particular, was determined—not to save the world—but for something just as noble: a real meal.
The two left the house together, strolling through the cobbled pathways of the stronghold to reach the central market. Despite being in the Trial World, where no natural food grew, humans had found a workaround—transporting supplies from the real world using spatial containers.
Trial takers often stayed up to 30 days before returning, so proper food was a necessity.
Leon was already sick of ration bars and he wanted to eat a proper meal especially since Elizabeth was an amazing cook.
The market was vibrant, packed with trial takers in light armor or casual robes, bartering for spices, dried meat, vegetables, and other goods. Elizabeth moved with elegance and familiarity, while Leon casually tossed items into his inventory.
They bought enough to fill a pantry—Elizabeth, of course, didn't bother buying for herself. She already planned to crash at Leon's place whenever she was in the Trial World.
"It's efficient and helps us save money," she said with a straight face.
Leon smirked. "Right... it's totally about saving money," he replied, playing along.
They were nobles, sure—but that didn't mean they couldn't be practical. Not that anyone would believe this wasn't just an excuse for the both of them to stay together.
When they returned, they organized the pantry with practiced ease. Elizabeth took charge in the kitchen, cooking a proper breakfast while Leon assisted—by giving her "emotional support" from the nearest chair. She cooked and he commented, occasionally passing her spices when ever she needed them.