Space station 30: Excessive Obsession with Emotions

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The sky was clear, and the sea remained calm.

Gentle waves lapped at the wooden flooring, leaving slight damp traces behind.

Privacy and safety measures here were well-implemented.

Outside the balcony, tall barriers not only obstructed views from both sides, but further out in the water, nets were set up to prevent tourists from inadvertently straying too far.

Outside the balcony, this fan-shaped area provided ample private space, indeed perfect for swimming.

Thus, it was entirely reasonable when Himeko returned to her room and expressed her desire to swim.

However, when she claimed she couldn't unzip her jacket...

[Fu Xuan: She wouldn't even pretend to try.]

[Kafka: If trying once opens the zipper, how could she maintain the act?]

[Kafka: ? This is even more fake than pretending not to open a bottle cap.]

[Himeko: Who cares if it's fake, as long as it works?]

[Himeko: Besides, it's just some romantic ambiance between me and my boyfriend. What, are you jealous?]

[Sparkle: Ambiance? More like flirtatiousness!]

[Kafka: ...]

[Kafka: (deeply stunned)]

[Firefly: (caught off guard)?]

[Silver Wolf: ? Enjoying this, aren't we? How does someone use their ultimate move like a basic attack?]

It was evident that Himeko mustered courage to utter such bold words. After making her request, she slightly lowered her gaze, resembling a bashful rose awaiting a response.

In this suggestive atmosphere, spoken words would only intensify the blush and palpitations. So, Su Qing didn't speak but simply stepped forward.

Himeko obediently let her hands drop from her front, watching his movements closely.

With great caution, Su Qing grasped the zipper with two fingers, barely touching Himeko's body.

This time, he noticed a mole on her fair skin, which seemed to add an extra allure.

Su Qing fully unzipped her jacket, revealing that Himeko wore red bikini bottoms underneath.

Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted her neatly folded denim shorts placed on the bed.

"Thank you."

It was merely a simple gesture; they hadn't even touched each other, yet Himeko's cheeks were already noticeably flushed.

Su Qing stepped back. "You're welcome, or rather... it's my pleasure."

Upon hearing this, Himeko's face visibly turned redder, making her seem all the more enticing as she removed her sunscreen jacket and set it aside.

[March 7th: Wow, wow, wow?! Since when did Su Qing become so smooth with romantic lines!?]

[Himeko, even through the screen, feels her heart fluttering. Those past romances were truly too beautiful.]

[Kafka: ... (slightly taken aback) (momentarily speechless)]

[Firefly: ?]

[Firefly: (feeling grateful for sunglasses)]

Behind Himeko, the white balcony door stood open, allowing sunlight to stream in. The doorway now appeared like a rectangular picture frame.

At the bottom of this frame, there lay an endless expanse of shimmering azure waves—the vast ocean.

Above, within the frame, was the deep blue sky adorned with white clouds, and several seagulls gracefully soaring.

Naturally, at the center of the frame, stood the focal point of this "photograph"—Himeko, clad in a red bikini.

Himeko's figure was undeniably perfect. The top of her swimsuit accentuated her flawless curves, highlighting her toned abs and slender waist.

The bikini bottoms, tied with delicate bow knots, complemented her long, graceful legs and fair, porcelain feet.

Overall, the golden flower adorning Himeko's head, matching the color of her eyes, added an aura of elegance and nobility.

Meanwhile, the red bikini perfectly matched her vibrant crimson hair, enhancing her striking allure.

These two adornments elevated Himeko's already stunning beauty to an unparalleled level.

With the backdrop of the sea and sky framing this scene, it truly captured a dreamlike vision.

[March 7th: Aaaaaahhhh!!! Goddess has descended!!]

[March 7th: Sister Himeko, you're toooo! Too beautiful!! ??]

[Silver Wolf: While I agree with your sentiment...]

[Silver Wolf: Your typing is so loud. Can you lower the volume a bit?]

[Himeko: (slightly blushing)]

[Stelle: LOL, even the mature version of Sister Himeko can't escape feeling bashful around March 7th.]

[March 7th: (excited) Sorry! I'll try to be more restrained, but Sister Himeko really looks stunning! So jealous!]

[Himeko: Thank you, little March...]

Himeko extended her right arm behind her back, grasping her left wrist, and stood tall, proudly displaying herself. "So, how do I look?"

Su Qing spoke honestly, "Absolutely gorgeous."

She paused briefly before continuing, "Do you remember when I complimented your beauty during our written conversation back then? Now, looking back, I probably only saw a fraction—perhaps less than one-tenth—of your true allure."

Himeko's heart swelled with joy, her cheeks flushed red and a sweet smile graced her face. "Back then, it wouldn't have been possible for me to show this side of myself to you."

"And now, all I want is for you to see..."

[Seele: Wow, Himeko knows how to play it.]

[Seele: Who could resist such words?]

[Black Swan: Rather than saying Himeko is exceptionally skilled...it's more accurate to say she deeply loves him.]

[Black Swan: Her profound affection for Su Qing means that whenever she naturally expresses her thoughts, it carries immense impact.]

[Seele: That makes sense.]

[Qingque: Indeed.]

[Bronya: Absolutely! As everyone said, genuine emotions are truly the ultimate trump card!]

[Himeko, reading these comments, felt even more embarrassed as others earnestly analyzed just how much she loved Su Qing.]

[Himeko: @Kafka, by the way, weren't you quite fond of Su Qing too at that time? Why didn't you express it?]

[Kafka (coming back to reality): ...Although hesitant, aren't you using me as a distraction from your own embarrassment?]

[Himeko's movements instantly froze; they figured it out so quickly!]

[Himeko: What are you talking about? I don't understand.?]

[Kafka (smiling): It's already been simulated, no need to pretend.]

[Firefly: I agree! Himeko must be feeling really embarrassed now.]

[Firefly: After all, everyone can clearly see how deeply she adores Su Qing.]

[Firefly: There's nothing wrong with being shy, though~]

Having watched the simulation before, both Kafka and Firefly deeply empathized with Himeko's current emotions.

[Himeko: Sorry, but I truly don't know what you're referring to.]

On the Astral Express, the mature and elegant Himeko covered her flushed cheeks, pursing her lips tightly.

Her toes, clad in high heels, involuntarily curled against the ground as the exposure intensified her embarrassment.

[...If only I had stayed silent from the start.]

In the simulation, Himeko perfectly embodied the Black Swan's judgment.

She gently twirled a strand of her long red hair, gazing lovingly at Su Qing.

This subconscious hair-twirling gesture was indicative of seeing someone she cherished.

Su Qing: "Shall we go swimming now?"

Himeko: "Just a moment."

As she said this, she took two steps forward, placed her hands on Su Qing's shoulders, and leaned in for a kiss.

Himeko gently leaned her body against Su Qing.

After a moment, she tilted her head back, her expression filled with sweet intoxication, captivatingly beautiful.

Su Qing hesitated before asking, "...Swimming now?"

"Hold on just a bit longer," Himeko replied.

As she leaned closer again, clad in her red bikini, her allure was simply irresistible. Su Qing involuntarily took a step backward.

His retreat only prompted Himeko to advance further.

Who could have imagined that Su Qing, who effortlessly decimated demons in the previous simulation, would now find himself steadily pushed back by his tall and stunning girlfriend?

Taking two more steps back, Su Qing felt the wall behind him, realizing he had been... unexpectedly cornered?

[Stelle: Ha ha ha.]

[Sparkle: Enjoying it!]

Su Qing looked down, noticing a hint of smug satisfaction beneath Himeko's golden eyes, which were filled with delight and contentment. He smiled warmly.

It seemed Himeko was pleased with his reaction, feeling validated in her charm. These small flirtatious moments between lovers always stirred a thrilling excitement.

However, they couldn't continue like this; Himeko's bold and suggestive advances risked going too far. So, Su Qing reached out gently, grasping her slender waist and softly pressing his fingers into the dimples at its base.

"Ah..." Himeko, who was about to make another move, let out a soft gasp and paused immediately.

Su Qing leaned against the wall.

With her hands resting on his shoulders, Himeko tilted her face upward to look at him, her gaze slightly reproachful and teasing.

Smiling at her adorable expression, Su Qing asked, "Can we go swimming now?"

"Even less so..." Himeko pursed her soft lips.

"Why not?"

She buried her face into his shoulder. "My waist feels weak, no energy..."

[Silver Wolf: Explosive Finishing Move!]

Caught off guard by this unexpected climax, Su Qing fell silent for a moment before saying, "Then let's rest for a bit first."

[March 7th: To be honest, I'm enjoying this quite a lot.]

[March 7th: But... (the initial excitement waning) (cheeks rapidly heating up)]

[March 7th: Isn't this getting extremely intimate between Sister Himeko and Su Qing?! Should we really be watching this??]

[Firefly: This is definitely not what I wanted to see!!!]

[Silver Wolf: @Firefly, you forgot your sunglasses.]

[Firefly: Oh, thanks.]

[Firefly: This is still not what I wanted to see!!!]

[Seele: Enjoying it.]

[Bronya: Indeed, enjoyable.]

[Seele: I feel like I can almost see Firefly's expression through those sunglasses.]

[Qingque: Ha ha, me too.]

[Fu Xuan: Indeed, that scene was somewhat... overly heart-pounding and blush-inducing.]

[Fu Xuan (face slightly flushed): Of course, this venerable one is well-versed and remains unaffected by such matters.]

[Sparkle: Who asked you?]

[Sparkle: But don't worry, everyone. I checked with Himeko, and she said it's fine.]

[Himeko: ...When did you ask me?]

[Stelle: @Sparkle, cheeky!]

[Clara: (covering her face but peeking through fingers) Clara can handle it; even—even if there's a bit more, it's okay!]

[Natasha: Clara seems to be at an age where these topics pique her interest now.]

[Bronya (blushing): Actually, for me, it might be just a tad too intense...]

[Seele (flushed even redder): Oh my gosh, Bronya, are you saying you're more prudish than Clara?!]

[Bronya (blushing): So what if I am!]

[Stelle: @Seele, @Bronya, let's not mock each other when we're both guilty of similar shortcomings.]

[Sushang: Stelle, didn't you mix up your analogy?]

[Guinaifen: No, think about it, Shuangshuang.]

[Black Swan: Everyone, no need to worry. If those scenes had gone any further, I would have simply skipped ahead.]

[Silver Wolf: Got it, so when the screen goes dark and words like "moments later" or "after that night" appear, right?]

[Black Swan: Not a bad suggestion.]

[Himeko slightly sighed with relief, unsure if she and Su Qing had experienced such "moments later" incidents herself. Nonetheless, this compromise was acceptable to her.]

[March 7th: @Black Swan, no way! Absolutely don't skip anything!!]

[Stelle: @March 7th, what exactly do you want then?]

[Bronya: I think I understand little March's feelings...]

[Bronya: It's that mix of shyness yet an irresistible urge to keep watching, isn't it?]

[March 7th: Yes! Exactly!]

After taking a brief break, Himeko removed her floral headpiece and carefully placed it aside. She then tied up her hair using a simple hairband.

The two stepped out onto the balcony, with Himeko entering the water first while Su Qing fetched some fruit juices from inside and set them on the table beside their lounge chairs.

He picked up a chilled glass, taking a sip to quench the thirst left by their passionate kisses moments ago.

As Su Qing gazed at the scene before him—by the seaside, with his girlfriend, enjoying a vacation—it all felt incredibly delightful.

Just as everyone had experienced upon arriving at the island, indulging in leisurely vacations proved far more enjoyable than focusing solely on academic pursuits.

Especially for Su Qing and Himeko, their bond was further enhanced by love.

Su Qing couldn't help but wonder why Professor Xu had brought them here. By booking such a luxurious hotel, wasn't he concerned that this extravagance and indulgence might erode their academic focus...?

As Su Qing pondered, Himeko called out to him, inviting him for a swim.

Her voice interrupted his thoughts, drawing his gaze back to the captivating Himeko.

Such a vacation was indeed too perfect, irresistible not to enjoy fully.

[Stelle: Alas, tempted by wine and beauty, from today onwards, I shall abstain from alcohol!]

[Qingque: Nice.]

***

The first official day on the island passed with leisure and relaxation.

On the second morning, the group gathered again.

Kahn exclaimed, "Great! We're all set! Where should we go play today?"

Anna studied the travel guide in her hand. "There seems to be a romantic spot towards the west, perfect for couples."

Hearing this, Himeko hesitated briefly before saying, "Anna, let me see that location..."

[Bronya: Didn't you say just one day of fun yesterday?]

[Sparkle: From Su Qing's Diary - Day 1: Ah, Su Qing, my dear Su Qing, you mustn't succumb so easily. Upon arriving at the island, strictly limit yourself to only one day of leisure.]

[Sparkle: Day 2: Swimming, kissed Himeko.]

[Stelle: Joyful.]

[Qingque: Joyful.]

[Silver Wolf: Laughed, "Swimming, kissed Himeko," truly straightforward.]

Fortunately, Su Qing didn't succumb to Sparkle's suggestion and maintained his rationality: "No, we agreed yesterday, right? Today, we must focus on our main purpose."

The group, who had been immersed in the island atmosphere, snapped back to reality: "Ah, okay." "Yes, indeed." "That's true."

***

[Following the address provided by Professor Xu, you arrive at your destination.]

[It is a brightly colored house with nearby entertainment venues resembling bars.]

[Although stereotypes should be avoided, it is hard for you to imagine this as the residence of a scholar who has published significant articles.]

[Upon knocking, an elderly man, roughly around Professor Xu's age but dressed quite fashionably, opens the door.]

[He wears flamboyant clothing, complete with necklaces, beach-style short sleeves and pants, and flip-flops.]

[After explaining your purpose, he seems reluctant to engage, indicating that friends are waiting for him and urging you not to hinder his leisure time.]

[Nearly facing rejection, luckily, mentioning Professor Xu's name changes his attitude.]

The vacationing scholar sighs, "He's still teaching, commendable perseverance."

"... However, your teacher coming here must be to dissuade you from pursuing this path," the scholar abruptly shifted his tone. "Why not give it up early like I did? Wouldn't it be better to take vacations and enjoy life as I have?"

Anna, puzzled, said, "I remember, weren't you originally conducting research at a university...?"

The scholar waved dismissively. "Got fired long ago."

In a casual manner reminiscent of someone on vacation, he continued, "Anyway, if you want the previous data, considering Professor Xu's involvement, I can provide it for you."

"But think about this—why has no one succeeded in interstellar aviation on Water Blue Star for several decades prior? What obstacles might lie behind this, and whose interests does it truly hinder? You're no longer children; you should ponder these questions yourselves."

His words were veiled, yet they inadvertently revealed some information.

However, everyone remained perplexed. Isn't the development of interstellar aviation supposed to be a good thing? Could exploring the universe and starlit skies negatively impact someone?

Su Qing and the others intended to ask further but noticed his growing impatience.

"Alright, if you want the data, send me your email addresses," the scholar stated. "No more talk needed; I'm pressed for time."

***

[In any case, that's how it went. Although you successfully obtained the scholar's information, his negative attitude left you feeling somewhat uneasy.]

[The reservation at the island resort was for ten days.]

[Over the next week, some of you visited the rocket base, while others organized the scholar's data and delved into academic literature.]

[Naturally, being in this idyllic vacation spot, there were many moments when everyone couldn't resist but wanted to enjoy the beach or explore local attractions. Indeed, most of the time during this period was spent on leisure activities.]

[March 7th: Hmm, speaking of, Sister Himeko seems quite deeply immersed in love.]

[March 7th: Based on her previous character, she should have been able to focus calmly on her studies.]

[Kafka: She's truly succumbing to lovesickness now.]

[Himeko, observing herself within the simulation, couldn't deny it.]

[At that time, having just tasted the beauty of love, she indeed became completely captivated and let her academics slip to the background.]

[Who, at such a young age, can remain entirely unaffected by love?]

[Even Su Qing, as depicted in the simulation, showed signs of wavering under the influence of the seaside ambiance and those around her.]

[Himeko sends a chat message: Alright, I admit it - during that time, I was indeed quite love-struck.]

[Himeko: But what I'm more curious about is, how did I change afterward?]

[Firefly: ? Is Himeko trying to shift the topic again?]

[Himeko: Uh...]

[Kafka: Trying to divert everyone's focus from your current infatuation to your subsequent transformation, right?]

[Himeko: Really? You're overthinking it again, aren't you?]

[Finally conceding, Himeko admits: Well, as they say, your enemies know you best.]

[Frequently, Firefly and Kafka accurately pinpoint her intentions.]

[Luckily, the topic diversion seems successful, thanks to March 7th's cooperation.]

[March 7th: Yes, yes! Something must have happened later for Sister Himeko to grow and become her complete self now!]

[Stelle: The concept of reaching a 'complete self' sounds intriguing.]

[Black Swan: It's likely something Su Qing did. He maintains his rationality, so he would understand the importance of balancing love with academics.]

[Stelle: Indeed.]

[Qingque: Quite possible.]

[March 7th: Highly likely!]

[There have already been two simulations prior, and Su Qing consistently proved reliable at crucial moments, earning everyone's trust.]

[But viewers couldn't help but wonder, what exactly will Su Qing do this time? After all, even he seems somewhat immersed in this beautiful romance.]

***

Tonight, Himeko and Su Qing planned to go out for a stroll alone.

Himeko retrieved a small transparent box from her luggage, containing a well-preserved keepsake. She took it out—a moon-shaped pendant with a spaceship resting on its surface. It was the gift Su Qing had given her years ago during the technology exhibition.

Su Qing had always kept the pendant attached to his bag, while Himeko cherished it by storing it carefully away.

Upon hearing a knock at the door, Himeko placed the pendant securely in the pocket of her denim shorts and stood up.

She had originally intended to use this trip as an opportunity to tell Su Qing about their past.

Today seemed like the perfect chance.

Feeling both eager and nervous, Himeko wondered how Su Qing would react when she revealed their shared destiny. Would he be happy? Delighted?

Would he like her even more after knowing this?

Himeko opened the door, and upon seeing Su Qing, her golden eyes filled with the sweetness and joy of love.

If during the spring she was merely intoxicated...

Then in this passionate summer, as their feelings deepened, Himeko found herself truly obsessed, almost unable to resist anymore.