Eating Grilled Fish with Gu Yue
"Indeed, this must be fate."
Gu Yue's eyes held a faint, nostalgic glimmer as she recalled their past encounters with Yao Xuan. "Even before his Dragon God bloodline awakened, our meeting wasn't due to some bloodline pull, but the guidance of destiny. I feel incredibly lucky!"
"Na'er and I share the same feeling about him," she continued, a thoughtful expression on her face. "So, we both come out on top. I've fallen for Yao Xuan, and Na'er doesn't have to fear me causing him harm."
"But," Gu Yue paused, her gaze sharpening slightly with concern, "according to my memories, Yao Xuan also holds deep feelings for Na'er. So, if either of us were to disappear completely, wouldn't he surely be heartbroken?"
"Yes, absolutely," Gu Yue confirmed, her tone firm. "He cherishes Na'er just as deeply. Therefore, merging entirely with Na'er without preserving my own identity would be unfair and hurt him."
"The best solution," Gu Yue mused, her eyes sparkling with determination, "is for both Na'er and me to continue to exist, maintaining our distinct personalities and forms, while integrating our power sources to reach the ultimate 'Perfect Gu Yue Na'er' state."
However, a barrier remained. "My current strength is insufficient to achieve this complete integration. I must acquire the necessary resources and power. Rest assured, I will find a way."
Fifteen minutes later, after waiting patiently in line, Yao Xuan and Gu Yue were finally seated. A waiter approached them, holding a menu.
"Welcome to Yuan Hao Grilled Fish. Today's special is charcoal-grilled mackerel with cumin. What can I get for you?"
Yao Xuan flipped through the menu, his eyes lingering on the various grilled fish options. "I want charcoal-grilled, cumin-flavored, honey-glazed, soy sauce-flavored, and crispy."
"Same here," Gu Yue agreed, her voice laced with a hint of affection.
"Alright, then. Twenty of each type, please."
The waiter raised an eyebrow at the order but simply nodded. "Will do. Please have a seat."
In less than five minutes, a waiter carrying a stack of platters appeared, laden with grilled fish. "Your order is ready. Enjoy your meal."
"Wow, so much grilled fish!" Gu Yue exclaimed, her eyes wide with delight.
"What a great appetite!" Yao Xuan chuckled, picking up two crispy grilled fish. He handed one to Gu Yue and took the other in his own hands. "Mmm, thank you."
Taking the fish, Gu Yue took a bite and moaned softly. "Mmm... This is delicious!"
Yao Xuan smiled, watching her enjoy the food. "Happy, I'm glad."
As they ate, the surrounding diners couldn't help but cast curious glances their way. "Heh, looks like these two have a good appetite."
Ignoring the whispers, Yao Xuan continued to enjoy the meal with Gu Yue. The sizzling sound of the grilled fish, combined with their laughter, filled the small restaurant.
"Say, Gu Yue," Yao Xuan said, breaking the comfortable silence. "Do you think the 'Yuan Hao' in 'Yuan Hao Grilled Fish' refers to the founder of the Spirit Pagoda?"
"Yes, I think so. My Gu Yue is really smart," Yao Xuan praised, gently stroking her hair.
"Of course! I've heard the story. It's said that Yuan Hao invented this grilled fish recipe to win over his wife, Douluo Tang Wutong. Isn't that romantic?"
"Indeed," Yao Xuan smiled. "Every dish has its own story."
"Then I want to hear more stories," Gu Yue said, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Yao Xuan chuckled. "Alright, I'll tell you more later. For now, let's enjoy the food."
They continued to eat, the delicious aroma filling their nostrils. The two pieces of grilled fish vanished quickly from their plates.
"This is really good," Gu Yue said, wiping her mouth with a napkin. "I could eat a whole plate by myself."
"Then you should try the honey-glazed one," Yao Xuan suggested, pointing to the platter. "It's my favorite."
Gu Yue nodded and took a bite. "Mmm... It's even better than I imagined."
As they ate, the restaurant gradually filled up. The two continued to enjoy the moment, oblivious to the curious gazes around them.
"This grilled fish is really delicious," Gu Yue said, her eyes still sparkling with delight.
"Indeed," Yao Xuan agreed, watching her enjoy the food.
After finishing their meal, the two left the restaurant, satisfied and happy. Holding hands, they walked along the bustling streets of Shrek City, lost in their own little world.
"Na'er, this grilled fish is really good," Gu Yue said, squeezing his hand slightly.
"It is indeed," Yao Xuan smiled, feeling the warmth of her hand. "But more importantly, I'm happy to be able to eat with you."
"Me too," Gu Yue said, her eyes glistening with emotion.
As they walked, the night sky gradually darkened. The two continued to walk, lost in their own thoughts and feelings.
"Say, Gu Yue," Yao Xuan said, turning to look at her. "Do you think we could find a place to stay for tonight?"
"Of course," Gu Yue smiled, "I've already reserved a room at the inn."
"Great," Yao Xuan said, feeling a sense of relief. "Then let's go."
The two continued to walk, their hearts filled with joy and anticipation for the future.