The serene boat ride back from the enchanting Fairy Cave had quickly turned into a frenzy of activity, with passengers bustling around Maris. The revelation of her identity as a saint had spread like wildfire, transforming the atmosphere into one of reverence and awe.
"It is an honor to meet you, Saint!" an elderly woman exclaimed, her eyes shimmering with admiration.
"Please, hold this child. We ask for your blessing!" another woman implored, holding out her infant, whose tiny hands grasped at the air, unaware of the significance of the moment.
Maris, overwhelmed by the sudden attention, smiled warmly as she took the baby into her arms. The child gurgled happily, and Maris's touch seemed to bring an almost immediate calm over the little one.