Ch. 50: A Date

I stood before the mirror that reflected my entire image.

My eyes were fixed on the reflection of the figure standing upright there, scanning every detail of my appearance carefully. I scrutinised the outfit I was wearing-a brand-new suit I had just bought at a famous store in Liyue Harbor.

The white shirt with fine stitching clung snugly to my body, forming a slim silhouette that showed off my well-preserved curves. The collar was slightly open, revealing my pointed chin illuminated by the lamplight. The sleeves of my shirt are rolled up to my elbows, giving it a touch of casual elegance.

My eyes moved downwards, where a pair of dark-coloured pants covered my legs. The fabric is of high quality, with neat creases framing every curve of my thighs. A leather belt cinches my slim waist, giving it an alluring masculine accent.

Not to forget, my shiny leather shoes reflected the light from the gleaming floor. I spun on my heel, marvelling at how my shoes displayed a perfect pointed silhouette. Even my t-shirt looks classy, with its colour matching my suit.

This was a date, how could I go out in everyday clothes.

I even spent money on clothes. I hope this date ends nicely. I nodded.

I flashed a satisfied smile, seeing how my entire appearance seemed to blend into a perfect whole.

I stepped out of the inn, entering the hustle and bustle of life that crowded the streets of Liyue Harbor. The sound of clattering footsteps mixed with the tinkling of wind chimes, creating a melody typical of a city that is never quiet. I breathed in the warm afternoon air, letting the scent of spices permeate my senses.

Seeing the city as it was, reminded me of Fontaine... that's right, I hadn't been exercising my body lately, like jogging and such. I let out a long breath. Too busy with world affairs.

Maybe I'll do it when this is all over. That's right, I need to finish my business first.

My eyes swept over the crowds around me. Vendors were shouting to promote their wares, their voices competing for the pedestrians' attention. Kids were running around happily, their laughter echoing like a crisp song in my ears. Even a cat seemed to gaze with interest at the crowd from the corner of a narrow alley.

I looked up, gazing at the twilight sky that stretched above my head. A golden orange tinge coloured the horizon, leaving red streaks dancing with the swirling clouds. The afternoon sun refracted its rays on the gleaming rooftops of the buildings, creating a scene as if painted by the skilful hands of a maestro.

In the distance, I could faintly hear the chirping of birds returning to their nests. The melodious sound was like a melody of nature welcoming them home, combined with the wind rustling the leaves on the trees.

Then, I shifted my gaze.

At this moment, I was stunned in the midst of the crowd crowding around me. My gaze fell on a single figure that stood out like a pearl among the pebbles.

Keqing, stunning in appearance, stepped over gracefully.

Her long purple hair was loose in two braids that fell to her waist. The braids were tied with a dark blue ribbon that turned dark at the ends. Two small pigtails on top formed a kind of adorable cat ears, adding a cute feel to her elegant appearance.

The strapless dress she wore showed off her smooth shoulders that reflected the afternoon sun. The top was lustrous black, transitioning seamlessly into a layered skirt with charming shades of blue and deep purple. A loose shawl in a purple degradation colour was draped over her shoulders, the knot forming a graceful black bow at the front.

Electro Vision was embedded at the intersection of her shawl straps, glittering like a jewel. Her crystal earrings swayed with her graceful movements. Her multi-coloured fingernails reflected the refracted light, making her look like a sparkling abstract painting.

Her long legs were clad in see-through stockings, framing her slender calves. Her sandals were embellished with flapping bird wings in a unique pattern. Even her wrists were encircled with intricately patterned straps, as if they exuded a special charm.

I can't think of anything other than beauty when I see this.

She's so pretty!

If I'm not wrong, in the game, this is the official outfit of Keqing-Opulent Splendor. She wears this outfit during certain events. It's safe to say that she almost never wore it other than the event where this outfit was released.

And she is wearing it now! How lucky I am.

Keqing flashed in front of me. "How do I look?".

Her graceful smile made my heart skip a beat.

I returned it with a smile. "More beautiful than any princess I've ever seen."

I took her soft hand, feeling the warmth of her skin against my palm.

Keqing turned to me, her sweet smile spread out, making me feel hypnotised by her stunning beauty.

"Thank you," she replied in a voice as soft as a spring breeze. "I'm glad you like it."

With graceful movements, she stepped closer, letting her long hair braid sway with the rhythm of her steps.

Honestly, this is my first time dating a girl, and I don't have strong experience in this area either.

If you ask me about my experience talking to girls or mature women, of course I have. However, if the context was dating, I had none at all.

So when he led me through the rows of shops lining the street, I could only sigh and follow right alongside her with a smile.

Her eyes twinkled, as if she was watching children gazing at the sweet pastries behind the window. After that, she pulled me from one shop to another, trying this and that with enthusiasm.

At an accessories shop, she tried on various types of glittering crowns and tiaras. I was transfixed, mesmerised by her beauty that shone even more with the accessories.

My laughter escaped when she tried on a flower crown that was too big for her head, making her look like a princess from a fairy tale.

She's already beautiful, adding more accessories should take away from her beauty. However, when I saw her wearing those accessories, I couldn't help but praise her.

"What do you think?" she asked, turning round while showing off the flower crown.

I smiled widely. "You look like a true princess."

A pink blush adorned her white cheeks, and she laughed crisply. The sound of her laughter was like a melody that pleased my ears.

We continued our shopping tour, stopping at other shops that offered beautiful clothing and jewellery. Keqing tried them on one by one, as if never satisfied with her own beauty. And I, like a loyal admirer, followed her wherever she took me without the slightest objection.

At the end of the day, as the sun began to truly set, we sat on a park bench with our shopping bags surrounding us. Keqing rested her head on my shoulder, panting but happy. I put my arm around her, inhaling the intoxicating scent of her hair.

"Thank you for accompanying me today," she murmured softly.

I smiled, kissing the top of her head affectionately. "There's no need to thank me. I'm just happy to be able to spend time with you, Keqing."

It was actually a bit embarrassing to do this. However, on the other hand, it was also fun because it made Keqing's fans jealous.

Look how upset they are with me. Their narrowed eyes showed a sense of resentment and hatred.

During the date I didn't pay attention to my surroundings at all, my eyes were only glued to Keqing.

One thing was for sure, during the time we were dating, many people were surprised to see me travelling by her side.

With such a beautiful view, who wouldn't think that I was Keqing's boyfriend?

Thinking of this made me curl my lip.

At this moment, suddenly, Keqing moved closer to me. I turned my head towards her, and found a sweet smile engraved on her plump lips. Her eyes that were as beautiful as purple gems radiated a tenderness that melted my heart.

"I have something for you," she whispered, in a tone that sounded a little shy.

Her delicate hand reached for something from the bag lying beside her.

When her hand reappeared, I was stunned to see a shimmering silver bracelet in her grasp. It was a simple, yet elegant bracelet with intricate engravings that made it look so special.

Before I could speak, Keqing took my hand gently. Her smooth skin touched my hand, sending warm vibrations travelling through my body. With slow movements, she wrapped the silver bracelet around my wrist.

I was transfixed, staring at the bracelet that was now wrapped around my wrist. It was so beautiful and perfect, as if it had been created especially for me. However, what stunned me even more was the pink blush that spread across Keqing's cheeks as she put the bracelet on.

"Keqing..." I called softly, unable to hide the tone of awe in my voice.

When did she buy this? Why didn't I know about it at all?

She smiled shyly, as if understanding my thoughts. Then turned her gaze away from me. "I saw it in the shop earlier, and immediately thought of you," she admitted in a soft voice. "I hope you like it."

I looked away. "Thank you."

"Oh yeah about the kids..." Keqing whispered sadly.

At this moment, my smile slowly faded from my face, replaced by a worried twitch at the corner of my lips.

My mind wandered, wandering here and there.

Images of the sins I had committed crept in, shackling my soul in tense darkness. Memories of my cruel actions that had taken innocent lives haunted me, making me feel like I was being crushed by the weight of tonnes of iron.

In my ears, the Hilichurls' screams of pain echoed like a deafening melody of hell.

I could smell the taint of flowing blood, as if the scent was still fresh against my sense of smell. In fact, I could still feel the sensation of a sword piercing through flesh, as my sharp blade sadistically took their lives.

How can I atone for this sin?

How do I resolve this?!

That question haunted me constantly.

"Hey..."

When I heard that, I gasped and returned to the world.

I turned to Keqing, staring at me silently, her gaze confused and mixed with worry.

It seemed to realise that I was thinking about something else. I wouldn't be surprised if she noticed the strange movements I made when she mentioned kids.

It was certain that he would be suspicious.

"Are you okay? Do you look tired?

"Did... you don't like this date?"

My throat constricted, as if strangled by the weight of sin shackling my neck. However, I managed to force a smile. "Of course I like it, that's why I'm so happy.

"I'm a bit hungry, by the way. Wouldn't you like to go to a restaurant for a while?"

That's right, this really made me happy. I was so happy, was it appropriate for a sinner to be happy?

Do I really deserve this?

***

Please throw a power stone to keep me motivated!

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At the end of the next chapter we will return to Fontaine 😁 The business there is not finished at all.

I wonder what happens to Keqing next 🤔