The workout room was filled with the sounds of heavy breathing and the thud of fists hitting leather. Sweat dripped down upon the floor and the air was thick with the smell of exertion. The hazel eyes of Okabe Yuji were fixed intently on the punching bag in front of him. He was always in here hitting the bag whenever he could get to it. When he couldn't do it at school he was at home hammering away at the one in his room. For hours each day, he practiced his forms, his stances, and his strikes. He pushed himself to his limits and beyond. It wasn't for any real personal reason, beyond self improvement of course, but rather out of a form of...would you call it paranoia? He'd been reading about all of the crazy things going down in the world and it honestly worried him. The idea that some lunatic could come after you or some twist of fate could cause you to be placed in a horrific situation worried him so he pushed his body to extremes so he would be able to defend himself from almost anyone or escape from bad situations if he had to. Most importantly though...he wanted to be able to protect his friends in the event of a worst case scenario. So he continued hammering away at the punching bag until he heard a voice calling out to him. "Yuji! Yuji! Yuuuuu-jiiiiii! Earth to Yuji!"
Yuji finally took a break and stepped gasping for breath and drenched with sweat. His normally spikey hair was matted down from his workout. "H-huh? Wha? Hmmm? Yeah?" He turned his head and looked across the room to see the beautiful blonde hot pink superstar Valerie watching him.
"Hey! Hey how you been? What's up?"
"Geeeeze. You really do space out when you get into zone don't you?"
"Yeah, it's...ahhh...it's a bad habit." He chuckled and he walked over to his towel and he used to wipe himself down.
"I can smell." She quipped. "You my friend need a shower."
He paused to sniff himself and recoiled. "Yeeeesh! You aren't kidding! Ohhh man, feeling the dehydration..." He grabbed his water bottle and chugged it down. "Ohhhhh that's better! I'm saved!" He sighed with relief. "Huh? Ah, hey, wait a sec! Are you recording me?"
"For posterity! Those were some sick combos, Yuuuj."
"I was raised on Tekken." He joked and finished wiping himself down and the floor and high-fived Valerie on his way out of the school gym.
-
The locker room shower wasn't exactly high class but it was honestly better than nothing and it did its job in refreshing him and he didn't smell as bad now. Some body spray took care of the rest. Now dressed again in some fresh clothes he grabbed his bag again and walked out the door where Valerie was waiting for him. She looked up from her texting and smiled. "All set?"
"All set. Lets go home." He smiled and walked out the door with her.
Rosecast really was an absolute marvel of a city. The skyline is crowded with stylish skyscrapers and even from afar they manage to display their beauty. Science and development is flourishing in Rosecast and it has attracted a lot of attention. Various cultures have left their mark not just on the city's history, but also upon the city's identity. What historically was a city of few differences has grown into a new culture of variety and it's this that unites the 11 million people to this day. It's this multicultural identity that has truly left its mark. Hundreds of diners, sandwich bars and concession stands offer a plethora of culinary choices and those who feel hungry for something else can enjoy aerobics, art galleries, nature or one of the many other recreational venues. The district of Lavender Heights was a place unlike any other in the city. It exuded an air of sophistication and elegance that drew people from near and far. The streets were lined with ornate lampposts that cast a warm glow over the cobblestone walkways, creating a magical ambiance that enchanted all who passed through. The shops and businesses in Lavender Heights were a sight to behold. Each storefront was meticulously designed, with intricate details and lavish decorations that showcased the owner's impeccable taste. From high-end boutiques selling designer clothing to quaint cafes serving artisanal pastries, there was something for everyone in this stylish district.
One particular shop that stood out was "Aurora's Antiques." The store was housed in a charming Victorian building with a hand-painted sign that sparkled in the sunlight. Inside, shelves were adorned with rare trinkets and exquisite artifacts from around the world. Customers would spend hours browsing the treasures on display, marveling at the stories behind each piece.
Next door to "Aurora's Antiques" was "The Midnight Rose," a cozy little bookstore that seemed to beckon book lovers inside with its inviting window displays. The shelves were filled with leather-bound classics and contemporary bestsellers, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, adding to the allure of the place.
One of the crown jewels of the district was a gourmet restaurant called "Aurelia," known for its exquisite cuisine and opulent décor. The moment you stepped inside, the tantalizing aromas of truffles, caviar, and aged wines enveloped you like a warm embrace. The soft glow of crystal chandeliers cast a soft light over guests dining at tables adorned with fresh flowers and fine china.
Next to "Aurelia" was a boutique jewelry store named "Luminous Gems," where the most breathtaking diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires sparkled in the display cases like tiny stars. The knowledgeable staff welcomed patrons with a warm smile and guided them through the selection of exquisite pieces that would add a touch of glamour to any ensemble.
On their way down the street they spotted Cesar and Shawn exiting The Midnight Rose with bags of new books in hand!
"Hey guys!" Yuji called out to them. "Just in time, eh? What'd you get?"
"Yo man. Check it out." Cesar told him while adjusting his glasses and handing him the bag. He opened it up to look inside.
Throne Of Space: Rebel Legacy and
Nightmare Labyrinth.
"Oh man! They really came out with a new
Throne Of Space book?"
"Hell yeah they did! I can't wait to go home and crack it open!"
"No spoilers. I'll buy it myself this weekend." He replied and handed the bag back. "What about you?"
"
Horrors And Mutants. It's supposed to be utterly insane."
"Cool. Let me know how it turns out. What do you think, Val? Any books you want me to get you while we're here?"
"Hmmmm, nah. Not quite in the mood for books....but after how you were smelling after that workout I would definitely love to smell some flowers."
"Say no more for your wish is my command my dear Valerie. We'll visit the florist and you can pick out anything you want."
"Awww! You are just ever so sweet!" She replied while cupping his chin. "What can I do but accept such a generous offer? By all means, lead the way my gallant darling."
"
Smoooth." The guys noted.
"Pay attention, gentlemen, because class is in session." Yuji informed them with a winning smile.
