The Shores of Komiyama
“How unbearably hot it is today,” thought Marie, wiping the sweat from her forehead. The scorching rays of the sun mercilessly blazed down from the clear blue sky, causing everything around to shimmer in the haze of the summer heat. The port square was blanketed in warmth, filling the air with the salty scent of the sea mixed.
Market stalls lined the waterfront like a vibrant caravan, each one resembling its own little enchanted world. The stalls were draped in bright silk fabrics, like pieces of sky and sunlight, fluttering playfully in the breeze, revealing the wonders hidden within. The smells of spices and eastern incense mingled with the fragrant notes of street food, creating an atmosphere where it was easy to lose oneself and forget the passage of time.
Marie, a young woman from the Mizuma race, stood out with her long, golden hair that shimmered under the sun, drawing admiring glances from passersby. Her eyes, sparkling and deep, resembled the surface of the sea, shifting from blue to turquoise depending on her mood and the lighting. As a water mage, she was in perfect harmony with the sea, and her movements were as fluid and graceful as the waves. On this hot summer day, Marie was helping the family of her friend, Torizu, with their stall. Their booth, adorned with countless small lanterns, was a true center of attraction. The display was filled with glittering jewelry, silken fabrics, and rare herbs brought from distant lands.
“Oh, Marie, it’s so wonderful that you’re helping us. What would we do without you?” said Kazuna-sama, Torizu’s mother, her voice warm with gratitude. Though tired, she was happy.
Kazuna-sama was an elderly woman with a kind and welcoming smile that always lit up when she saw her loved ones. Her silver hair, neatly gathered into a bun, was sometimes decorated with a simple wooden pin. The lines on her face spoke of long years of life and the wisdom she had gained over time. Her eyes were deep and warm, carrying a soft gleam that reflected her kindness and care. Dressed in a simple yet neat and cozy kimono, Kazuna-sama always looked modest but tasteful.
She gave Marie a tight hug, feeling grateful for every moment of her help, and handed her a cup of cool tea. Her hands were slightly rough from years of hard work.
Marie smiled back, feeling like part of this bustling yet cozy world. She enjoyed helping with the trade, especially on days like this when, despite the heat, the port was full of people. Tourists and locals wandered among the rows of stalls, intrigued by the exotic goods, sampling sweets, and discussing the latest news. Marie’s hands, skilled from household chores, deftly managed the tasks at the market. Torizu, a young man with thoughtful gray eyes, broad shoulders, and quick hands, constantly reminded her to keep an eye on the merchandise and make sure the day was profitable. His sturdy figure, short, slightly tousled dark hair, and confident movements spoke of someone used to physically labor.
Marie noticed how, with a practiced motion, Torizu brushed a lock of hair from his forehead, his eyes carefully scanning the market square. He was always vigilant, noticing the smallest details: someone lingering too long by the stall, someone haggled or attempting to discreetly slip an item into their clothing. His focus reassured Marie, and she knew there was no need to fear any unexpected troubles with him around.
They worked together seamlessly, like long-time partners. Torizu swiftly attended to customers, his strong hands skillfully arranging the goods, while Marie smiled at everyone, drawing in new clients. Occasionally, their eyes would meet, and in those moments, she felt something warm and familiar in his gray gaze, for they had known each other for a long time.
Bending over the stall, Marie continued to expertly fold the fabrics that were particularly popular among the buyers. Meanwhile, Torizu regaled a new customer with a story about how his father had found a rare artifact in the mountains. His voice was filled with energy and enthusiasm, captivating everyone around.
“These fabrics are so beautiful! Where are they from?” asked a middle-aged woman who had approached.
“This is silk from the distant northern lands. It’s renowned for its softness and durability. Would you like to feel it?” Marie offered.
The woman ran her fingers over the fabric, nodding in admiration.
“Yes, incredibly soft. I’ll take two meters!”
As the market day came to a close and the last customer left, their basket overflowing with purchases, Torizu turned to Marie with a smile.
“Thank you, Marie. You’ve been such a help today. How about we take a walk along the waterfront? It wouldn’t hurt to cool off a bit.”
Leaving the noisy square behind, they headed towards the shore. The sea glistened peacefully under the rays of the setting sun, while the majestic Komiyama Mountain loomed on the horizon, a reminder of the timeless beauty of this land. Small boats and ships bobbed on the waves, as if swaying to the rhythm of their own thoughts and dreams.
The noise and bustle of the market gradually faded into the evening calm, and the friends, savoring every moment, strolled along the water’s edge, talking about their dreams and plans.
“How was the trade today? Did you manage with the customers?” Torizu asked warmly.
“Yes, they were all so kind and interesting. I love telling them about our goods. How about you?”
“The spices sold like hotcakes. I didn’t expect such demand. By the way, what do you think about trying to sell tea made from rare herbs tomorrow?”
“That’s a great idea! I can help you prepare samples for tasting. I’m sure people will love it.”
On their way to the waterfront, Marie couldn’t resist stopping at a few stalls where exotic fruits and sweets were sold.
“Let’s get a mangoman? I’ve been wanting to try this fruit for a while. They say it has a unique taste, almost intoxicating.”
“Are you sure? It might be a little too exotic. But let’s try it. It could be fun.”
The evening descended slowly, like a velvet curtain, so softly that it seemed to envelop every inhabitant with its tranquility. Marie glanced at Mount Komiyama, bathed in the glowing lights of the sunset, and felt warmth fill her heart. She cherished this time of day—when the sky bloomed with vibrant colors, and the gentle waves of the sea played a melody for the soul.
They had reached the beach, where the waves gently kissed the shore, and the sunset painted the sky in warm hues of orange and pink.
“You know, Marie, I’m really glad you’re with us. Your help makes the day easier and more fun,” said Torizu, gazing out at the sea.
“I like being here, too. It’s so different from what I’m used to at home. Here, life feels so full of energy!” Marie smiled.
They both laughed, listening to the sound of the surf and feeling the pleasant sea breeze that added to the unique atmosphere of the evening. Marie and Torizu settled on the sand, watching the waves play along the shore.
“It was a good day. We got a lot done and spent it together,” Marie said with a soft smile.
“Yeah, sometimes I think moments like these are the most important. Simple, but meaningful,” Torizu agreed.
“You’re right. Let’s start tomorrow with new energy and ideas.”
“Deal. But for now, let’s just enjoy this sunset.”
“Don’t forget your promise for tomorrow,” Marie reminded him.
“Yes, yes, I remember,” Torizu nodded. “You know, I’m not a big fan of all those traditions, but I really want to see you in a yukata and launch a lantern together.”
After saying goodbye to her friend, Marie hurried home. Her parents always returned late from work. They were both doctors and lived at the sacred temple at the foot of Mount Komiyama. Near the temple was a lake, which gave energy and special powers. Upon returning home, Marie decided to take a dip in the lake. She bathed there every day to maintain her energy as a healer.
In the mornings, Marie worked at the temple and then would rush to help Torizu’s family at the marketplace. Since she had known Torizu since childhood, he was more than a friend—someone she could talk to about anything.
As Marie immersed herself in the lake, she felt the coolness envelop her body, soothing the tension she had built up over the day. The waves caressed her skin, and the evening sun, setting beyond the horizon, bathed everything around in a soft glow.
After her swim, Marie returned home, where her parents were already waiting.
“Don’t bathe so late—you’ll catch a cold,” her father said sternly, sitting down at the table.
Marie’s father, Ryuji-sama, was a tall man with a strong, muscular build, giving him an air of authority and resolve. His gaze was sharp and penetrating, as if he always knew what was going on around him. The deep lines of his face, accentuated by his graying beard, gave him a commanding and dignified presence.
“The water was warm. I’ve prepared rice with seaweed and pickled radish. Would you like some?” Marie asked, rummaging through the fridge.
“Bring it out quickly,” her father grumbled.
“Did you go to the marketplace again?” her mother asked.
Marie’s mother, Mizué-sama, was a graceful woman with an elegant posture and refined features. Her slightly curled black hair framed her delicate face perfectly. Her eyes were a dark shade of turquoise, their expressiveness enhanced by her fine but determined brows. She always dressed tastefully, favoring outfits that highlighted her natural beauty and sophisticated style. Her smile, warm and caring, always comforted Marie after long, tiring days.
Marie remained silent.
“You shouldn’t be associating with those people! They don’t respect our traditions,” her mother sighed.
“Mom, don’t start.”
Marie quietly heated the food, reflecting on her mother’s words. She had always known that her friendship with Torizu was disapproved of by her family. Merchants from the north, like him, were considered outsiders, despite their kindness and sincerity. But Marie knew that their bond was something more than mere friendship. It was trust and mutual understanding that strengthened their souls.
She looked up at the window, where the still stars greeted her in the silence of the night.
“Tomorrow is a new day,” she whispered to herself, clutching a small tiger-shaped amulet in her hand—a gift from Torizu, a symbol of their friendship and faith in the future.
