Breakfast

The inn of Fusha Village had an old-world charm. Wood aged by time, tables and chairs that seemed to have many tales to tell. The simple yet cozy decor echoed the village's character.

The cool morning breeze entered through the open windows, gently rustling the cotton curtains. The aroma of breakfast filled the air, a scent that drew in hungry residents and travelers. There they were, Satoru and Mai, seated across from each other, breakfast spread out on the table.

Mai inspected her plate, picking up a small portion with her chopsticks. Her brown eyes sparkled in frustration. "This is unseasoned!", she exclaimed, causing some villagers to turn their heads. She looked around, her gaze searching for something to spice up her food.

Satoru, still eating with a satisfied expression, raised an eyebrow.

She muttered something unintelligible, taking a small vial from her bag. "If the food here has no taste, I'll give it some!", she declared, pouring a red liquid over her meal. The liquid released a smoke that made some villagers cough.

An older villager approached, his expression curious. "Young lady, what are you using?", he asked, his gaze fixed on the vial.

"Just some seasoning," Mai replied with a teasing smile. "Do you want to try it?"

Before the villager could answer, Satoru stepped in. "Perhaps it's best not to. It's an acquired taste."

The old man, now somewhat hesitant, nodded. "Maybe another time," he said, smiling politely before returning to his table.

Mai took a bite of the now seasoned food, her eyes lighting up with pleasure. "Ahhh, that's more like it!", she exclaimed, a satisfied smile on her face.

Satoru chuckled, shaking his head, and took a sip from his coffee cup.

The buzz in the inn grew as the villagers began to chat amongst themselves, some sneaking glances at the foreign couple. It was obvious that Mai and Satoru were a novelty in town.

One of the villagers, a sturdy-looking man, approached, his face was stern. "You're that bounty hunter, aren't you? What do you plan on doing here in Fusha Village?"

Satoru gave a confident smile. "We're just passing through. No intention of causing any trouble."

The man sized them up. Finally, he sighed, extending his hand. "I'm Hiroshi. If you truly have no ill intentions, you're welcome here."

Satoru took the handshake. "I appreciate your understanding, Hiroshi."

Some inquisitive gazes still lingered on them. The presence of the pirate ship was still a cause for concern for many.

"Do you think they still suspect us?" Mai asked, feeling the weight of the stares.

Satoru smiled, taking a sip of his coffee, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Possibly," he said, "But it's inevitable."

"Well, I've never been one to blend in," she said with a mischievous grin.

He raised his cup in a toast.

Mai smiled, clinking her cup against his. "To life, love, and all the surprises that come with it."

They both drank, their laughter filling the air, as the morning sun shone through the windows, promising a new day full of possibilities.