Chapter 08

Ah! His Goddesses

The dawn sky painted hues of lavender and gold, casting a dreamlike glow over Midchilda South as Einhard and Ave set out on their summer adventure. The morning air was crisp, tinged with the faint scent of dew and freshly blooming flora. The streets hummed softly with early risers going about their day, creating a tranquil backdrop for their journey.

The steady purr of Ave's motorbike harmonized with the peaceful ambiance. Einhard clung lightly to his waist, her silver-green hair streaming behind her like a shimmering banner that caught the soft morning light. The cool wind brushed against her face, heightening her sense of exhilaration. Her mismatched purple and blue eyes sparkled with anticipation, reflecting the thrill of venturing to this universe's Earth.

Ave felt the subtle squeeze of her hands—a wordless expression of her excitement that echoed his own feelings. He glanced briefly at her through the rearview mirror, catching the glimmer of wonder in her gaze. A small smile curved his lips. "This trip is going to be unforgettable," he thought, silently vowing to make every moment special for her.

Upon arrival at Uminari, the warm summer breeze greeted them like an old friend, carrying with it the salty scent of the nearby ocean and the subtle aroma of blooming hydrangeas lining the streets. The coastal city brimmed with nostalgia, its mix of traditional Japanese architecture and modern storefronts creating a harmonious blend that spoke of history and progress. Laughter from children playing in the distance mingled with the gentle rustle of leaves swaying in the breeze.

Ave took a moment to take in the picturesque surroundings before contacting Suzuka, a kind acquaintance who was also a close friend of Vivio's mothers. Suzuka greeted them warmly and graciously lent them a vintage BMW R60/2 motorbike that gleamed under the afternoon sun.

"Thank you so much for your kindness, Suzuka-san," Einhard said with a respectful bow, her silver-green hair catching the light. Her mismatched eyes gleamed with sincerity, reflecting the afternoon sun.

Suzuka's smile was gentle and understanding. "Enjoy your trip and take good care of each other. Life is more precious when shared with someone special."

Ave nodded earnestly, a warm smile spreading across his face. "We will, thanks to you. Your kindness means a lot to us."

As they mounted the motorbike, Suzuka waved them off, her expression serene yet wistful. The hum of the engine filled the air as they merged onto the coastal road.

Einhard tightened her hold around Ave's waist, her thoughts swirling with gratitude and excitement. This journey is already starting beautifully, she mused, feeling the gentle breeze kiss her skin. I'm glad we have this chance together.

Ave glanced at her briefly through the rearview mirror, catching the soft smile on her lips. His heart swelled with a mix of affection and determination. This summer is going to be something we'll both remember forever, he vowed silently.

The rhythmic hum of the motorbike blended seamlessly with the distant crash of waves against the shore, creating a serene melody that filled the air. The salty breeze carried the faint scent of blooming summer flowers, weaving through the gentle rustling of leaves. Einhard's eyes gleamed with wonder, her lips curving into a radiant smile every time they passed through picturesque villages and small towns adorned with vibrant bursts of seasonal blossoms.

Children often flocked around them at every pit stop, enchanted not only by the vintage motorbike but also by Einhard's ethereal appearance. Her long silver-green hair shimmered under the afternoon sun, and Asteion, perched proudly on her shoulder, captivated young onlookers with its lifelike movements. The snow leopard plushie meowed softly, prompting delighted giggles from the children.

Einhard knelt gracefully, her mismatched purple and blue eyes sparkling as she interacted with the little ones. She laughed wholeheartedly, a sound that was light and joyful, carrying warmth through the air. She even joined a group of children in a spontaneous game of kagome kagome, her voice blending harmoniously with theirs as they sang the playful tune.

From a short distance, Ave watched her, his heart swelling with affection. The sight of her so carefree and happy made his resolve even stronger. She's never more beautiful than when she smiles like that, he thought, silently promising himself to make this trip unforgettable for her.

After journeying for three nights and four days, they finally arrived at a secluded beach far from the bustling metropolis. The golden sands stretched endlessly, glimmering under the radiant sun as gentle waves caressed the shoreline with rhythmic whispers. The salty tang of the ocean mingled with the faint scent of wild coastal blooms carried on the breeze. Seagulls soared overhead, their cries blending harmoniously with the sound of the surf.

Einhard's eyes gleamed with excitement as she surveyed the idyllic paradise. Her silver-green hair caught the sunlight, shimmering like a cascade of precious threads. She inhaled deeply, savouring the crisp sea air that invigorated her senses. "It's perfect," she whispered, awe lacing her voice, as a delighted smile spread across her face.

Ave dismounted from the motorbike, his gaze softening as he watched Einhard's wonder-filled expression. "Wait until you see the sunset here," he promised, his voice carrying a warm undertone of anticipation.

Einhard's mismatched purple and blue eyes met his, sparkling with sincerity. "I can't wait," she said earnestly, her heart brimming with gratitude for this special journey they were sharing.

As they prepared to enjoy the beach, Einhard shyly asked Ave not to peek as she went behind a large rock to change into her azure bikini with white frills along the waistband. Her heart raced as she fumbled with the ties, a blush warming her cheeks at the thought of Ave waiting nearby. The gentle sound of waves and the soft rustling of the ocean breeze surrounded her, doing little to calm her nervousness.

Ave found a similar rock nearby to change into the bright neon swimming trunks adorned with tropical motifs that Einhard had chosen for him. He chuckled softly to himself, shaking his head at her unexpectedly bold choice. "Guess she does have a playful side," he mused.

Ave finished changing first, stretching under the warm sun. The salty breeze ruffled his hair as he basked in the tranquil atmosphere. The warmth seeped into his skin, and he sighed contentedly, soaking in the moment. "Ready when you are, Haru," he called teasingly, his voice carrying a lighthearted tone.

"Turn around," Einhard's shy voice floated toward him, tinged with both embarrassment and anticipation.

Ave's heart skipped a beat as he obediently turned. His breath caught in his throat at the sight before him. Einhard stood there, her long silver-green hair shimmering under the sun like strands of spun moonlight. The bikini accentuated her athletic yet graceful figure; the white frills adding a delicate touch that contrasted beautifully with her toned form.

"You're beautiful," he said earnestly, his voice filled with awe and sincerity.

Einhard's cheeks flushed a deep crimson. "Yumina-san is prettier and more feminine," she murmured self-consciously. "She has a curvy and attractive body. I'm just... muscular from all my training."

Ave shook his head firmly, stepping closer to gently pat her head. His touch was warm and reassuring. "To me, you're the most attractive girl in the entire universe," he declared with conviction, his gaze unwavering.

Her blush deepened, and her voice wavered as she whispered, "Thank you, Ave-kun."

They stood there for a moment, the ocean breeze wrapping around them like a gentle embrace. The serene sound of waves crashing against the shore seemed to echo the emotions swirling between them.

"Come on," Ave said with a smile, extending his hand. "Let's make some memories today."

Einhard nodded, her heart feeling lighter. "Yes, let's."

They spent the day indulging in simple joys—splashing water at each other, building sandcastles that crumbled under the playful waves, and basking in the warm embrace of the sun. They wandered along the shoreline, collecting seashells of various shapes and hues, marvelling at their intricate patterns. Their laughter echoed through the salty breeze as they explored tide pools, discovering tiny crabs scuttling beneath shimmering water.

Time seemed to stand still, each moment etched with happiness and serenity. The gentle sound of waves created a soothing melody that complemented their carefree spirits.

As the sun dipped toward the horizon, painting the sky with hues of gold, pink, and lavender, Einhard and Ave sat side-by-side on a smooth rock warmed by the day's heat. The scent of sea salt lingered in the air, mingling with the faint aroma of wild coastal blooms. Einhard leaned her head on Ave's shoulder, her expression serene, her silver-green hair catching the soft glow of twilight.

"The sky is beautiful," she murmured softly, her gaze fixed on the vibrant hues blending seamlessly across the horizon.

Ave's lips curved into a gentle smile, his voice playful yet sincere. "It's beautiful because I'm seeing it with you."

Einhard's cheeks flushed a delicate shade of pink, though her lips curved into a heartfelt smile. "You always say things like that," she said softly, a hint of bashfulness colouring her tone.

"And I always mean them," Ave replied, his expression warm. "Thank you for bringing me here," Einhard said sincerely, her voice filled with emotion.

Ave's eyes softened. "I've always wanted to go on a trip with you, just the two of us."

Her heart fluttered at his words. "You really mean it, don't you?" she whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

"Every word, Haru," he affirmed.

Their faces inched closer, the world around them fading into an intimate blur of twilight hues and the gentle symphony of waves. The atmosphere thickened with unspoken emotions as they leaned into each other, their breaths mingling.

Einhard's pulse quickened, her mismatched eyes reflecting the shimmering colors of the sky. She could feel the warmth of Ave's presence enveloping her, grounding her in the preciousness of this moment. Her lips parted slightly, anticipation threading through every fibre of her being as their lips drew nearer.

Ave's heart raced, each beat echoing with the weight of unspoken promises and burgeoning love. He wondered fleetingly how he had managed to find someone as extraordinary as Einhard, someone who made every simple moment profound.

Just as their lips were about to meet, the serene atmosphere shattered with the abrupt roar of an unexpected explosion.

Startled, Einhard's body tensed instinctively. Her training kicked in as she leaped to her feet, scanning the area with sharp precision. "What was that?" she demanded, her voice steely with focus.

Ave sprang up beside her; eyes narrowing as smoke billowed in the distance. "Trouble, maybe?" he muttered.

A group of people emerged from the dissipating smoke, their colorful presence contrasting sharply against the serene beachscape. Leading the pack was a short man in gaudy, bright-orange swimming trunks decorated with palm tree motifs, his energetic demeanor evident despite the chaos. Beside him walked three stunning young women, each exuding their unique charm in elegantly fashionable swimsuits that reflected the hues of the setting sun. The most striking of them, a spirited girl with long, sleek ebony hair, was gesticulating wildly as she scolded the man, her voice carrying a fiery intensity.

"Banpei-kun DX's fireworks malfunctioned again! It's your fault, Kei!" she fumed, her flushed expression underscoring her frustration as she waved her arms dramatically. Her hair swayed with every movement, shimmering under the fading light.

The other two women attempted to pacify her. One had long, straight chestnut-brown hair elegantly tied in a ponytail, her composed demeanor radiating a calming presence. The second, a silver-haired beauty with flowing locks that glimmered like liquid moonlight, wore a slightly amused expression as though accustomed to such mishaps.

Einhard's brows furrowed in confusion as her sharp gaze took in the unusual group approaching from the dissipating smoke. The vibrant hues of their swimsuits glinted under the setting sun. "Who are they?" she asked Ave, her voice low and tinged with curiosity.

Ave shrugged, his eyes narrowing slightly as he assessed the newcomers. "Looks like we're not the only ones who thought this was a good spot for a holiday," he remarked with a wry smile, though his tone carried a hint of intrigue.

Einhard nodded thoughtfully, her gaze lingering on the strange, intricate markings etched across the women's foreheads and cheeks. The symbols shimmered faintly under the golden twilight. "Those markings... they're unusual," she mused aloud, her voice tinged with curiosity and wariness.

A soft breeze carried the salty tang of the ocean, ruffling Einhard's silver-green hair as she considered the group's unusual presence. Her instincts, honed by countless battles, urged her to remain cautious but open.

"Should we go say hi?" Ave suggested, his voice light but attentive.

Einhard's lips curved into a soft smile, her initial apprehension giving way to warmth. "Sure, why not? It might be interesting," she agreed, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear as they began walking toward the group.

They approached the group, their footsteps muffled by the soft sand, mingling with the distant sound of waves lapping against the shore. "Hi there," Ave greeted amicably, his voice carrying warmth despite the unexpected encounter. "We heard an explosion. Is everything okay?"

The ebony-haired girl crossed her arms, huffing in mild annoyance. "Just Banpei-kun DX's fireworks going haywire," she explained, her tone somewhere between frustration and resignation.

Einhard tilted her head in confusion, her mismatched purple and blue eyes narrowing slightly. "Banpei-kun DX?" she echoed, her curiosity piqued.

Before the girl could respond, Asteion peeked over Einhard's shoulder, meowing softly in cautious inquiry. The girl's eyes immediately lit up with an almost childlike wonder, sparkling with curiosity as she leaned closer.

"What is that? How does it move? Is it some kind of advanced AI or autonomous device?" she bombarded Einhard with rapid-fire questions, her voice brimming with fascination. Her sudden enthusiasm caused Asteion to meow nervously and retreat behind Einhard's shoulder, its tail twitching slightly in alarm.

The chestnut-haired woman gently placed a calming hand on the girl's shoulder, her expression kind yet firm. "Skuld, don't scare the poor plushie," she admonished with a patient smile. Her voice carried a soothing cadence that seemed to ease the tension.

Einhard offered a polite nod. "It's alright," she assured gently, her gaze softening as she gave Asteion a reassuring pat. "Tio gets nervous around sudden attention."

The short man with bright energy grinned sheepishly, scratching the back of his head. "I'm Keiichi Morisato," he introduced himself. "This is Urd," he gestured to the silver-haired woman who gave a playful wave, "Belldandy," indicating the chestnut-haired one, "and Skuld," pointing to the enthusiastic ebony-haired girl, who was still eyeing Asteion with unbridled curiosity.

Einhard and Ave exchanged glances, silently acknowledging the unusual yet friendly atmosphere surrounding the group. "I'm Heidi Einhard Stratos Ingvalt, and this is Ave J.C. Takamachi," Einhard introduced them with composed politeness.

"Nice to meet you," Ave added, flashing a friendly smile as the ocean breeze tousled his hair.

"Likewise!" Keiichi said enthusiastically, his energy infectious.

As the sun continued its descent, casting a golden glow across the tranquil shore, the two groups stood by the shimmering water, their serendipitous meeting hinting at the possibility of shared stories and unexpected bonds waiting to unfold.

To Be Continued.