123. A Date And A Game

Ryūhei leaned back, looking contemplative. "No idea, but I have a feeling that something significant is happening beyond our understanding. We should be cautious and keep an eye on the situation. At the very least, I'll have to make you stronger to deal with the unexpected. In the meantime, let's focus on the matters at hand, such as promoting my manga and games." Then, he glanced at Ayaka, "And our relationship."

Ryūhei didn't want to think about the complicated matter. Therefore, he just eased himself by talking about his own matters, especially with Ayaka.

Ayaka seemed bashful after Ryūhei said that. With that, he proposed, "How about we go on a date? Visiting some places in Mondstadt might be nice."

Ayaka nodded, confirming her agreement.

But, Rimuru suddenly said, "Can I get out of here first? Damn you little kids make me jealous!"

Somehow, Rimuru felt like he was going back in time to his days as Mikami Satoru when he was still human. Although it was a nostalgic feeling, he didn't particularly want to reminisce about his friends acting all lovey-dovey with their girlfriends or wives in front of him. It could be quite annoying.

Ryūhei and Ayaka shared a chuckle and decided to head out since they had around three hours before dusk, leaving Rimuru alone.

——————

While on a date with Ayaka, his clone in Inazuma telepathically informed him about the possibility of consciousness being born from a puppet. In fact, Miko revealed to his clone that Ei had created a prototype puppet in the past as a test and proof of concept for the creation of an indestructible puppet bearing a Gnosis. Initially, Ei had intended to dispose of the puppet once the experiment was successful.

However, perhaps considering it too cruel, Ei ultimately decided to seal the power within the puppet and left it in a dormant state, setting it free.

This implies that Rimuru, Veldora, and Pikachu's consciousness might have been born after Ryūhei created them. Initially, Ryūhei had some doubts and wondered if their souls came from another world. However, after learning the story from Miko, he became more certain that he had indeed created new forms of life using his Annihilation Maker, even if they were not human.

"You look so happy. Is there a reason?" Ayaka suddenly asked, standing beside him.

Ryūhei shook his head. "No, I'm just happy to have a date with you again."

Ayaka narrowed her eyes slightly, not entirely convinced. "Really? You seem like you're thinking about something else."

Ryūhei was silent for a while before admitting, "Well, that's true. I'm sure you've liked me since I started living at the Kamisato residence. But you only showed more feelings than that when I was away from you, and it was the time when I'm starting my business in Liyue. Is not it?" Then, he turned to Ayaka. "Because of that, I also planted that feeling, so that I could have the same feelings as you feel towards me."

Ayaka was taken aback by Ryūhei's confession. She blushed slightly and looked away for a moment. "I...I suppose you're not entirely wrong," she admitted softly. "It did take me some time to realize my feelings for you, and your absence made me realize how much I missed you."

Ryūhei chuckled. "Your blush really wants to make me pinch your cheek."

Ayaka blushed even deeper at his words and lightly swatted his arm. "Behave, Ryūhei. We're in public," she scolded playfully.

Their interaction appears to be affectionate and playful, reflecting a romantic relationship filled with lighthearted moments and teasing.

"Right, where should we go?" Ryūhei asked. He had a few places in mind, but he wanted to prioritize Ayaka's preferences.

"Erm, how about Diona's village?"

"You mean Springvale?"

"Yes. She mentioned a legend about the Spring Fairy or something."

Ryūhei's eyes lit up. He couldn't help but wonder if this Spring Fairy was similar or related to the water spirit, Undine, from his previous life.

"That sounds fascinating. Let's definitely visit that place first."

—————

"No wonder I didn't see cat ears in this village before. It turns out that people with the same bloodline as her are so rare." Ryūhei said after seeing the people in Springvale.

After a brief moment, Ryūhei made his way to a small lake in Springvale. Unfortunately, he couldn't sense the presence of a water spirit. Perhaps it was merely a legend.

"Speaking of water spirits, did you know they make excellent bartenders?"

Ayaka thought, 'He's at it again,' but she couldn't resist asking, "Do you know why?'"

"Because they always have the perfect 'poursonality'!"

"Pfftt. That's a good one." Somehow, the more she heard his jokes, the funnier they seemed to her.

Pun jokes are fascinating because they play with language in a clever and humorous way. They often involve multiple meanings or the similarity in sound between words, creating a humorous twist. This wordplay engages people's brains by making unexpected connections, and the element of surprise adds to the fun. Puns can also be a form of intellectual humor, appealing to those who enjoy language and wordplay.

That's why Ryūhei enjoys pun jokes. Ayaka, having heard these jokes from him frequently, has developed a liking for that type of humor.

The two of them eventually found themselves by the lake, engaging in lively discussions about their interests and favorite topics. After a while, Ryūhei brought up a new topic.

"Speaking of which, Ayaka, while we were at the peak of Starsnatch Cliff, I spotted an ancient tower to the west, shrouded in a strong Anemo element. Do you think there might be some hidden treasures waiting inside?"

"Interested in treasures, are you?" Ayaka inquired.

Ryūhei nodded. "Indeed, I am. While ancient treasures can be profitable, I'm more intrigued by the glimpse they offer into the tools and technologies people from the past used, whether it's weapons or other artifacts."

"You always have a unique perspective, Ryūhei." Ayaka blushed slightly before adding with a low tone, "I think that's one of the things I like about you."

"Erm… That's rather sudden, but I appreciate your sentiment," Ryūhei replied with a smile. "Well, shall we continue our date?"

Ayaka nodded, her face tinged with shyness.

——————

After the day had already turned dark, Ryūhei returned to Mondstadt, intending to promote his games. This time, Ryūhei and Ayaka visited Angel's Share near their inn.

While Ryūhei was at Angel's Share, The Cat's Tail was bustling with people playing games. Moreover, they displayed joyful expressions upon learning that Mondstadt was safe and sound. This was thanks to the Acting Grandmaster Jean, Master Diluc, the investigator Fischl, the Traveler, and the recently renowned Mangaka, who was now accompanied by his fiancée. Together, they had helped the dragon regain its senses.

Inside the VIP room, a trio sat at their seats, engrossed in a game of 'Let's Get Rich.' Among them were Klee, a diminutive figure in red, Diona, a cat-like little girl, and Kaeya, a tanned man with an eye patch. It was as if Kaeya was taking care of the two little girls.

Klee, Diona, and Kaeya were fervently strategizing and laughing as they took turns rolling the dice and moving their respective game pieces across the vibrant and intricate game board. The board depicted various iconic locations of Teyvat, each representing different regions and nations.

"Yay!" Klee cheered, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Klee just marked the clam island, Watatsumi! Big brother Kaeya, can we visit this island later? I bet there are tons of fish there."

"Why don't you ask the big brother you met before? Maybe he can take you. After all, it's his homeland." Kaeya knew who Klee met and was well aware of Ryūhei's connection to Inazuma back to when his company was featured in the newspaper.

"Eh, big brother Ruhei is from this clam island?" Klee asked, her curiosity piqued. And Kaeya clarified.

"Not exactly, but this island is still part of Inazuma." He said while pointing at Watatsumi island on the board.

"Then, I'll definitely ask big brother Ruhei later." Klee's eyes sparkled with excitement at the thought of the upcoming adventure.

Diona remarked, "Sure thing, Klee. Just don't forget to bring back some furresh fish for me if you do go."

In Mondstadt, everyone knew Diona's secret passion – her unwavering love for fish. There was no reason to hide that Diona likes fish. Whether she was crafting her signature concoctions at The Cat's Tail or simply enjoying a leisurely evening at the lakeside, her eyes would light up at the sight of a freshly caught fish. But, that was another matter.

Klee, with her boundless energy and enthusiasm, often opted for a daring approach, gleefully leaping her game piece around the board to explore new territories. Diona was more methodical and cautious, meticulously planning her moves to ensure she gathered valuable resources and properties. Kaeya maintained a balanced approach, utilizing his quick wit and adaptability to make tactical decisions in response to their playing.

As they played, their interactions mirrored their personalities, with Klee's infectious laughter, Diona's thoughtful contemplation, and Kaeya's suave comments, creating an entertaining and lively gaming experience within the cozy VIP room.