The night's rain only lasted a short while, and the clouds sensibly moved away. By the next day, the weather was clear and bright.
The blue sky and bright sun made for a picturesque scene. The sun was a bit too strong, causing pedestrians to sweat, but occasionally, clouds provided a welcome shade from the heat.
On the road, a handsome young man displayed his tail feathers. He was dressed in new clothes and had neatly combed hair. He looked energetic and held a bouquet of bright red roses—clearly a man in love.
The young man arrived at a house in town. His nervousness made him appear a bit uneasy. After pacing outside momentarily, he gathered his courage and knocked lightly on the door.
A rush of footsteps quickly came from inside. The sound wasn't loud, but it felt like a loud clock striking the young man with a racing heart.
The door soon opened, revealing a lively girl with short, light white hair, making her look very sprightly.
The girl sized up the young man with an unusual gaze, then couldn't help but smile.
"Ah ha! Calvin, you came early. Want to come in for breakfast?" Lisanna said with a teasing look, instantly making Calvin blush.
Calvin felt genuinely embarrassed and shy. This was the first time he had ever dated a girl in his two lifetimes combined.
"Uh... is Mira ready?" Calvin asked cautiously, his timid demeanour making Lisanna laugh even more.
"Come in and wait, don't stand out there like a fool," Lisanna said warmly, pulling Calvin inside and seating him at the dining table. Elfman was setting breakfast and glaring at Calvin with a fierce look.
"Hi... Elfman."
"Hmph!"
Calvin understood Elfman's feelings. The latter had always been wary of anyone interested in his sister. Despite being one of the top wizards in the country, Elfman still showed the same protective attitude.
Calvin fell silent.
Lisanna was still covering her mouth, trying not to laugh.
Fortunately, Mira didn't keep Calvin waiting too long. She soon emerged from her room.
When she stepped out, Calvin felt like he was seeing an angel.
Her slightly curled long hair was tied up, exposing her fair neck, which was dazzling.
She wore a pure white dress that perfectly complemented her alluring figure. With light makeup that highlighted her beautiful face, her gentle smile made Calvin feel like his soul had flown away.
"Sorry for the wait, Calvin," Mira said with a smile, exuding an aura of purity. Calvin was even more mesmerised.
The next moment, Calvin suddenly felt inspired, channelling his inner romantic.
He knelt on one knee, gently took Mira's right hand, and presented the roses.
"Waiting a lifetime for you is worth it, my princess!"
His affectionate demeanour and cheesy words made Elfman and Lisanna break out in goosebumps, unable to stand it.
Calvin's behaviour was just too cringe-worthy.
Even Mira's gentle expression slightly frowned.
But soon, she helped Calvin up, gently linking her arm with his, smiling brightly.
"Let's leave the flowers at home. Lisanna, please take care of them."
"Well then, we're off," Mira said, gently tugging Calvin, who followed like a loyal dog.
Elfman and Lisanna exchanged glances. After a while, Lisanna spoke up.
"It looks like they really are going to date."
"It's just that Calvin's too timid. Everyone knows my sister has been waiting for him to make a move, but he dragged it out until she had to take the initiative..." Elfman commented with a straight face.
"By the way, brother, how are things progressing with Evergreen? When are you going to make a move?" Lisanna suddenly asked.
…
Mira and Calvin felt a unique sense of novelty walking on Magnolia's streets.
Both had grown up in this town and knew it well, but seven years had brought many changes to Magnolia. More importantly, the person beside them was different from their usual companions.
Not to mention Calvin's awkwardness, even the usually composed Mira was blushing, looking endearing.
Since leaving the house, Mira had been holding Calvin's arm, feeling the warmth from his arm. Calvin felt a stir within him.
But it wasn't unpleasant; on the contrary, Calvin found it quite enjoyable.
He understood this was what they called a man's primal instinct.
"Calvin, where are you planning to take me?" Mira asked softly, unable to bear the silence any longer. Her tone was still gentle.
Calvin thought momentarily and said, "How about we visit the Kardia Cathedral?"
"Alright..."
They headed to the Kardia Cathedral, a grand building large enough to endure Laxus's battles. The final battleground of the Fairy Tail Civil War was here.
This cathedral also held special significance for Calvin.
The two sat quietly inside the cathedral, looking up at the ceiling.
"Calvin, do you think the legend of Kardia is true?" Mira suddenly asked.
"It is true," Calvin responded simply.
"The beings that imprisoned your soul and took over your magic power are related to that legend, aren't they?"
"Yes... He claimed to be the first demon in the world, originally defeated at the Angel Sanctuary of Kardia Cathedral."
"Calvin, honestly, are there still hidden dangers?" Mira asked, her tone calm but with a hint of unease.
Calvin didn't answer because he didn't know if those beings would reappear. But there were hidden dangers, though he didn't want to admit it or tell Mira.
"Let's not talk about this. It's rare to go on a date with you. Let me enjoy it," Calvin said, trying to smile lightly.
Mira's expression turned serious, and she spoke earnestly.
"Calvin, you know I have a special constitution and am very sensitive to demons. If anything unusual happens, you must find me!"
Calvin couldn't help but smile bitterly, showing a pained expression: "Oh, Mira, you agreed to date me just to talk about this?"
His playful demeanour made Mira laugh. She shyly patted Calvin lightly.
Then, Mira wrapped her arms around his neck, gently pulling Calvin's head down.
"Of course not."
"But, let me make you happy."
With that, Mira's lips met Calvin's.