I personally enjoyed the previous chapters as well, but I think this chapter is one of the best chapters so far. It fully brings out the heart in this series, which I think there is an abundance of. The element of ordinary people living their own lives is, in my opinion, what makes this series work so well.
Since the people from the shopping center might be bringing news of evil mages or other troubles, maybe Ooawara will be a recurring character! I'm all for it.