Cosmic Ruler - Chapter 242

Chapter 242: Date with Nexus

Aiden thought for a moment and then said, “How about I use it on Ivan?”

Nexus was speechless for a moment before responding, [And you were feeling bad for him after every attempt of yours to steal from him resulted in him agonizing in pain.]

Aiden coughed awkwardly. “Well, you know, he’s already my enemy, so it won’t matter much now,” he replied, trying to justify his decision.

[Whatever,] Nexus shook her head before adding, [Let’s first go on a date with me.]

Aiden, who was just about to use the Chronicles of Providence, stopped and gazed at Nexus. “Huh?” he blurted out, caught off guard.

[Don’t ‘huh’ me,] Nexus replied, standing up as her clothes began to morph, melting into motes of light before transforming into a sleek, elegant western dress. The dress was a stark contrast to her usual appearance, emphasizing her beauty and the unexpectedness of the moment.

Nexus’s dress transformed into an elegant masterpiece, crafted from a shimmering deep sapphire fabric that hugged her figure gracefully. The gown had a strapless sweetheart neckline, highlighting her collarbones and shoulders. The bodice was adorned with intricate silver embroidery, weaving delicate patterns that caught the light with every movement.

The dress flared out gently from the waist, cascading down to the floor in soft, flowing layers that seemed to ripple like water. The fabric was light and ethereal, giving her an almost otherworldly appearance. A subtle train trailed behind her, adding a touch of regal sophistication.

Her long, slender legs peeked out with each step through a thigh-high slit on one side, which added a hint of allure without detracting from the dress’s overall elegance. The hem of the gown was trimmed with tiny, twinkling crystals, which sparkled like stars with every step she took.

Her hair, usually free and wild, was now styled in soft waves that framed her face, and she wore a delicate silver necklace with a single teardrop-shaped sapphire that matched her dress perfectly.

Aiden blinked, still processing the sudden shift. “A date?” he repeated, more to himself than to Nexus, unsure how to react.

‘Not to mention she is looking absolutely stunning now,’ Aiden thought as he went back to his room to get ready for the date.

After some time, Aiden emerged from his room, wearing a perfectly tailored tuxedo that matched Nexus’s outfit in both elegance and color. The tuxedo was midnight blue, with subtle silver accents that complemented the sapphire tones of Nexus’s dress. His look was completed with a crisp white shirt and a silver bowtie, adding a touch of sophistication to his ensemble.

[Sheesh, you took so much time,] Nexus teased, her tone playful as she eyed him up and down.

Aiden rolled his eyes at her comment and replied, “Not everyone has a body of light like you.”

With a smirk, he offered his hand, which Nexus took gracefully, intertwining her fingers with his. Hand in hand, they exited the room, their steps in perfect sync.

[By the way, where are we going?] Nexus asked, her curiosity piqued.

“Well, you didn’t give me much time, but I will make sure this date is worth it,” Aiden replied confidently. He knew this was part of a deal between Nexus and Myne about the date, but he was determined to give Nexus an experience she would never forget, especially since she had rushed into it so suddenly.

As they walked down the hallway, Aiden couldn’t help but notice the subtle excitement in Nexus’s usually calm demeanor. Though this date was unexpected, he knew he had to make it memorable, especially given the suddenness of her request.

The palace they resided in was an architectural marvel of eastern fantasy—a sprawling complex with intricately carved wooden structures, adorned with golden accents and red lanterns that swayed gently in the evening breeze. Aiden led Nexus through a garden filled with blossoming cherry trees, their petals fluttering down like snow, creating a pathway of soft pink beneath their feet.

[Oops , I guess, I chose the wrong Dress,] She mumbled as she changed her dress to an hanfu.

Nexus’s dress, a stunning hanfu with flowing sleeves and delicate embroidery, shimmered in the dimming light. The deep purple silk was adorned with intricate patterns of gold and silver threads, depicting scenes of mythical dragons and phoenixes in flight. Her long hair was partially pinned up with ornate hairpins, leaving some to cascade down her back in soft waves. Her entire appearance exuded an ethereal beauty that made Aiden pause for a moment to admire her.

[Were you gobsmacked by my beauty?] Nexus teased, noticing his gaze.

Aiden smiled, offering his arm to her. “yes, you can bet on that”

Nexus chuckled as she took his arm.

They walked through the garden until they reached a secluded pavilion by a tranquil lake. The pavilion was perched on stilts above the water, surrounded by floating lotus flowers that glowed faintly in the twilight. Red and gold lanterns hung from the pavilion’s roof, casting a warm, inviting light over the scene.

Aiden led Nexus inside, where a low table was set with an exquisite array of dishes, all carefully prepared with the finest ingredients. The scent of jasmine tea wafted through the air, mingling with the sweet fragrance of the surrounding flowers.

Nexus looked around, genuine surprise in her eyes. [You really did all this?]

Aiden grinned, gesturing for her to sit. “I wanted to make this Date special.”

They took their seats on the silk cushions, and as they dined, the conversation flowed naturally. Aiden noticed how the usual tension between them seemed to melt away in the serene setting. The quiet sound of the water lapping against the pavilion and the occasional soft breeze made the moment even more intimate.

After the meal, Aiden stood and extended his hand to Nexus. “Would you honor me with a dance?”

Nexus raised an eyebrow, but there was a hint of a smile on her lips as she took his hand. He led her to the open space at the center of the pavilion. As they started to move, the soft melody of a guqin drifted through the air, played by an invisible hand, adding a mystical quality to the night.

Nexus’s hanfu swirled gracefully with each step, and Aiden matched her movements with a grace of his own. They danced under the light of the lanterns, their reflections shimmering on the water below, surrounded by the peaceful silence of the night.

In that moment, the world outside ceased to exist. There were no battles, no conflicts, no burdens to bear—just Aiden and Nexus, two souls intertwined in a dance that seemed to transcend time itself. The harmony between them was perfect, a rare moment of peace in a world filled with challenges.

For that night, in the midst of an eastern fantasy landscape, Aiden promised himself to cherish this memory, knowing that such moments were fleeting and precious.

As the dance came to an elegant close, Aiden gently guided Nexus back to the table, where the array of dishes awaited them. The table was adorned with intricate porcelain plates, each carrying a selection of delicacies that reflected the richness of the eastern fantasy world they inhabited.

Aiden poured jasmine tea into delicate cups, the steam rising with a floral fragrance that complemented the serene ambiance. He then began to uncover the dishes one by one, revealing an assortment of artfully arranged foods. There was tenderly steamed fish, its flesh flaking with the lightest touch of chopsticks, surrounded by a broth infused with fragrant herbs and spices. Nearby was a platter of dumplings, their translucent skins revealing colorful fillings within—some stuffed with minced vegetables, others with spiced meats.

Aiden also served a dish of stir-fried vegetables, the vibrant colors of the crisp greens, carrots, and lotus roots contrasting beautifully on the plate. Next to it was a bowl of golden rice, each grain perfectly cooked, and lightly scented with saffron. A small dish of pickled plums sat at the side, adding a tangy counterpoint to the rich flavors of the main courses.

[You really went all out, didn’t you?] Nexus asked, her tone carrying a mix of amusement and genuine appreciation.

Aiden smiled, pouring some more tea into her cup. “I thought we could both use a break from everything. Besides, it’s not every day I get to share a meal with you.”

Nexus looked at him, her usual aloof expression softened by the glow of the lanterns. [You’re full of surprises, Aiden.]

They began to eat, savoring the meal in comfortable silence for a while. Aiden watched as Nexus sampled each dish, noting the small smile that appeared on her lips as she tasted the food. It was a rare sight to see her so relaxed, and Aiden found himself enjoying the moment more than he had anticipated.

As they continued their meal, Aiden finally broke the silence. “You know, I didn’t expect this night to turn out like this.”

Nexus looked up, her golden eyes reflecting the lantern light. [You’re not the only one. But I have to admit, it’s been… nice.]

Aiden chuckled. “Nice? Coming from you, that’s high praise.”

[Don’t push your luck,] Nexus retorted, though there was no edge to her words. She picked up a dumpling, taking a delicate bite before setting her chopsticks down. [But in all seriousness, Aiden, I appreciate what you’ve done. I know things have been difficult lately, and you’ve had to shoulder a lot on your own.]

Aiden paused, considering her words. “We’ve all had our struggles. But tonight, let’s just enjoy the peace.”

Nexus nodded, her expression thoughtful. [Agreed.]