Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on Jul 23, 2023 12:37:24 GMT -5
Rayl stood quietly as Thisbe tended to the accessories for her dress and necklace, marveling at the additional pieces. Recognizing their need for privacy, Thisbe discreetly left them alone after arranging their bag of clothes. Rayl also took notice of her shoes, perfectly complementing her outfit.
Now alone, Rayl blushed with embarrassment as Leo continued to shower her with compliments. She couldn't help but shield her eyes and face with her palm, imploring, "Please, not too much," as she turned away. "You look handsome in your suit too," she added, managing to reciprocate the praise.
Trying to collect herself, she fanned her face with her hand, but Leo's last comment only heightened her embarrassment and bashfulness. She coughed, attempting to regain composure, "Let's keep certain thoughts between us, Leo," she gently reminded him, hinting at some private shared experiences. She then winked at him and patted his shoulder, saying with a soft smile, "Shall we?" as she nodded towards the boutique's exit.
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Jul 24, 2023 9:39:02 GMT -5
Leo feels ecstatic that his compliments were properly delivered. Last thing he wants is for Rayl to undermine her own beauty. Her reaction to turn away despie her reddening cheeks makes him excited. However, the artist looks almost appalled at her praise towards him.
"What?" He looked down to what he's wearing and looks back up at Rayl again. "The suit is handsome, truly. I'm just your average joe." He had a chuckle when Rayl asked him to stop speaking out his thoughts, to which he agrees to. "Fair enough. I'll say those in private then." He caught her winking and releases another love-struck sigh. So this is what the intellectuals back then meant when they say it's hard to control your affections.
Leo raises his elbow once Rayl is ready to leave, and they both exits the boutique with a flourish of grace and elegance. Immediately after they got out, a swarm of cameramen starts shooting pictures of them. Flashes of light blinded their view, and Leo felt the need to do something. He reaches his hands up to touch behind Rayl's shoulders and begins to push her away from the papparazi.
Some people begins following them as they walked off but Leo signaled over the mall security. The portly men made good work of shooing the cameramen away, and Leo lets out a sigh. "I'm so sorry about that. Let's not let them ruin our date tonight, alright?"
The artist led his girlfriend all the way to the top floor and reaches their destination for the night; Fuego Troika Sky Dining. It's a glamorous high-rise dining restaurant which offers great sights of the entire Gradia while the guests may wine and dine in style. It is an indulgence that Leo's willing to take, it's his first date after all. Money is of no concern to him, and he wants the experience to be perfect.
After entering the establishment, a waiter guides them to their seats; the best place house. Gradia is a floating metropolis, and during nighttime, all the beautiful lights of the countries below can be seen from the top of the world. The view is splendid, and Leo is surprised he has never been here before.
Taking care of being the perfect gentleman, Leo beats the waiter to pull a chair for Rayl to sit on. He looks at her with so much love, the waiter excuses himself to fetch the wine. After Rayl was seated, Leo goes to the seat across from her and settles down. The waiter returns and fills two wine glasses on the table. He announces that the whole dinner is ready for them and he will bring the starters and main courses shortly.
Finally being left alone, Leo looks up to Rayl's icy blue eyes and smiles weakly. "I... didn't expect this place to be this... extravagant, but I hope you will enjoy the experience." His eyes stayed on her long after he said that and he sighs again. "You really are so beautiful..."
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Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on Jul 25, 2023 2:24:33 GMT -5
Rayl felt taken aback by the sudden camera flashes and the paparazzi's attention, but she understood that Leo was trying to shield her from the overwhelming situation. As Leo guided her forward, she noticed mall security stepping in to assist them, which fueled her curiosity about why the photographers were so interested in him. Despite her nerves, she reassured Leo that they could handle it together, her voice steady and comforting.
Seated at the table, Rayl's cheeks still flushed from the compliments, she gazed lovingly at Leo, her eyes brimming with curiosity and admiration. "Leo, you have a way of making me feel incredibly special," she murmured softly, a hint of shyness in her voice. "And you're anything but an average joe to me. You're truly extraordinary."
While she appreciated the effort Leo had put into the surprise dinner, the opulence of the place left her feeling a bit overwhelmed. Nevertheless, she didn't want to spoil the moment for Leo, who seemed genuinely thrilled about the experience. "Thank you for everything, Leo. This is all so unexpected and beautiful," Rayl said sincerely, locking her gaze with his. "But you know, it's not the extravagance that matters to me. It's the thoughtfulness and care you put into making me happy. That means the world to me."
As they continued to share an intimate moment, Rayl felt an immense sense of gratitude for Leo's presence. It wasn't just about the fancy surroundings, but the person sitting across from her. With sincerity and vulnerability, she expressed her feelings to him. "You're an incredible artist, and I couldn't be prouder of you. And, well, I find myself in awe of you every single day," she sighed, her thoughts momentarily drifting to the paparazzi. "But who is Leonard de Piero here at Gradia? I want to know more about you."
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Jul 25, 2023 10:22:50 GMT -5
Leo lets out a subdued chuckle at Rayl's admittance that she feels special, immediately responding with a "Because you are," as if that's common knowledge. Her choice of words to describe him as extraordinary causes his thoughts to pause, recalling that's what his late mother used to say. A faraway smile on his face, the artist dips his head down in a humble nod.
His heart almost overflowed when Rayl assured him she appreciates his thoughtfulness more than the extravagance. "I honestly could gift you the world..." He pondered out loud jokingly, facing the view outside but his eyes cornered towards her curiously. "But you seem the sort to appreciate the simpler things in life. We are one and the same."
The waiter returned with the entrees, and carefully places down two bowls of cherry-colored soup, each in front of the guests. Once the waiter has left, Leo gestures for Rayl to eat and then uses a spoon to stir his soup. He hums in thought. "Huh. Lobster bisque. Haven't seen one of these in a while." Due to Gradia being a floating metropolis, dishes with anything that came from the sea is considered exclusive here. "It's lobster meat with tomato and fresh cream." He explains after tasting a spoonful, and eyes the complimentary bread at the center of the table.
Once Rayl expressed her feelings to him, Leo looked up to her in wonder. The former assassin seems curious of him, and Leo couldn't be happier at her genuine questioning. "Oh my, there's not much to say about me, Rayl... But I can tell you a quick rundown." He sits with his back straight, a refined quality in his posture.
With a gentle smile, he begins his story. "I came from humble beginnings. A single mother. A small house. I found my late father's art supplies, and that's how it all began." He recalls his mother being tired of him messing up paint in the house as a child, so she hid everything. He ended up painting with coals instead. Nothing stops him.
"After my mother died, I lost her wedding ring in a pit. In trying to find it, I tumbled into an abandoned underground mechanical labyrinth and got stuck there. Mind you, I was 12." Leo laughs lightly recalling the memory. In hindsight, he should've been scared, but at the sight of so much forgotten machinery and devices strewn about, he got excited instead. "There were a lot of things to discover there. I learned quite much."
The artist reaches out for the bread at the center of the table and began to methodically pull it apart in specific cube shapes. "I ate only mushrooms and plants there to survive." He dipped one piece of cubed bread in the soup and eats it politely. After swallowing it, Leo continues with his eyes on the entree. "When I got out of there a few years later, I've created several things to help the community. The devices and artworks that I've made were widely praised. I was lauded as a genius."
Finally, he looked up at Rayl with a smile. "And that's who Leonard de Piero is. To Gradia, I am some kind of folk hero I guess, to motivate the children. To you, I'm just Leo, and that's who I'm more comfortable to be." He lightly scratches the side of his neck, still not used to his styled hair being this smooth.
Now with his eyes on her, Leo's blue eyes peered into Rayl's with loving curiosity. "What about you? Who is Rayl Enzan, and who is the Rayl in front of me now?"
Just as he finished his question, the waiter returned with the main course. On Leo's plate is a veal porterhouse chop, and on Rayl's plate is a sablefish with saffron risotto, served with white asparagus. They both look absolutely delightful.
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Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on Jul 25, 2023 17:21:30 GMT -5
Rayl listened attentively as Leo recounted his story, sharing how he had been trapped in a labyrinth for many years and how he had aided the country, leading to encounters with paparazzi, curious glances, and friendly greetings they had experienced earlier.
As she took in Leo's tale, Rayl couldn't help but be amazed by his remarkable accomplishments and the impact of his creations, which the country had wholeheartedly embraced. She savored the dishes they were enjoying, savoring each bite.
However, a moment of solemnity crept over Rayl as she thought about how to describe her own past to Leo. She knew he was already aware of her history—an assassin with a past as a vessel for an ancient ice demon and the tragic incident involving her parents.
With a tender smile, Rayl met Leo's gaze and spoke softly, yet earnestly, "Leo, you've seen more of me than most ever will. I am Rayl Enzan, a former assassin, and once a host for an ancient ice demon. My life has been veiled in shadows, and I've chosen solitude to shield those I care about from the darkness that once consumed me."
"But meeting you changed everything," she continued, her eyes reflecting warmth and affection. "Being with you, I've experienced a sense of belonging, a desire to explore new experiences beyond my solitary existence. With you, I feel safe and loved, and I want to share my life with you."
"I am still the same Rayl you've come to know, quiet and aloof at times, but with you, I've found a new facet of myself—the one who craves connection, love, and adventure. You've awakened something in me that I never thought possible, and for that, I am eternally grateful."
"I may have a past that's shrouded in shadows, but you've given me a chance to step into the light and embrace the person I want to become. So, to answer your question, the Rayl in front of you now is the one who sees a future filled with possibilities, love, and growth, and I want to walk that path with you by my side."
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Jul 26, 2023 2:50:04 GMT -5
Leo understands the topic of Rayl's past does not have the same bored normalcy that he has. It is a stark opposite of the world he is used to, and he is so very curious to learn more about her.
When Rayl uncovers her past to him, Leo trained his eyes on her inquisitively. He had only guessed and assumed of who she was, so to hear her explain in detail of what actually happened made him wonder whether she even wanted that life. By her tone, he doubts that's the case. It almost sounds like she was an unfortunate victim of fate.
A sincere smile grows on his face once Rayl said she feels a sense of belonging with him. Leo's cheeks colored, touched to hear that because of him, the trajectory of her life changes for the better. "I'm so happy... that you've discovered yourself, and the things you've wanted."
It must be difficult to live life following the guidance of others. She must have never prioritized herself and her needs like this before, so for her to rediscover herself and the things she feels important to her is a giant step towards growth.
"I'm very honored... that you chose me to walk with you." He broke eye contact with Rayl for a moment, feeling a rush of emotion. To distract himself, Leo picks up his fork and knife and begins to cut the veal on his plate. Though, his movement slows down after a moment as his thoughts began to distract him from his food.
There's a complicated expression on his face for a moment, before he finally raises his eyes to look at Rayl once again. "I...! Uh..." As if the spell was broken, his courage left him the moment his eyes laid upon how beautiful and perfect she is. Leo swallowed the lump in his throat and finally spoke up his thoughts.
"Rayl. A-are you sure... that you're fine with me?" He's not particularly what you'd call a traditionally masculine man. "I'm... not as strong, and I have too slight a build. My hands do not look manly too." He releases his hold of the cutleries to spread his fingers apart to show her his long slender fingers. "I'm... quiet, and unassuming, and boring. Meanwhile, you're..."
His eyes got lost in hers again. "You're very attractive, and unbelievably beautiful. Your mind is sharp, and your will is so strong. I'm sure a lot of people would find you fetching. Sometimes I feel like you're out of my league..." He thought back on that flashy man who approached Rayl earlier, and how he felt back then being unable to voice out that she has a boyfriend. Leo heaves out a breath, and suddenly his eyes brighten, as if a fire was lit in his soul. "But I'm sorry for being selfish; I don't want others to have you."
Leo sees himself as lucky to land this drop-dead gorgeous babe. He's never the type to feel so strongly and gives up on things very easily. However, Rayl is different for him. "You may be out of my league, but I will pursue you anyway."
His fingers curls inwards into his palm as he presses his hands against his lap, hiding his insecurity from her. It is his own responsibility to navigate his emotions and anxieties, but she's a wonderful influence on him, and he'd like it more than anything to be a better person for her.
Leo picks up his cutleries again after that statement and begins tasting his dinner. The meal is delicious, the company is wonderful, it is a lovely night. "Do you have any hobbies you're interested in? I'd love to do some things you enjoy with you."
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Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on Jul 26, 2023 18:09:38 GMT -5
As Leo locked eyes with Rayl, revealing his insecurities and vulnerabilities, Rayl's heart filled with admiration for the genuine and sensitive man before her. She reached across the table, placing her hand gently on his.
"Leo," she spoke softly, "you are perfect just the way you are. Your strength lies not in physical might; but in your character and the kindness in your heart. Your hands are beautiful and capable of gentleness. And your quiet, unassuming nature is something I truly value; it brings a calming presence that puts me at ease."
With a warm smile, she reassured him, "Please don't compare yourself to others or place me on a pedestal. We are equals, and the connection we share is what matters most to me. Your admiration means the world, but I'm not an unattainable ideal. I'm just a person who cherishes you."
As Leo expressed his determination to pursue her despite his doubts, Rayl's eyes lit up with joy. "I'm grateful for your feelings, Leo, and I want you to know that I've chosen you too. You don't need to worry about others; my heart is yours, and I have no interest in anyone else. It's you I want."
His desire to become a better person for her touched her deeply. "Together, we'll grow and learn, building a beautiful future hand in hand."
Rayl looked down at her food, suddenly more interested, and confessed, "There's not much to mention, aside from reading books and hiking. But I'd love to try doing art with you. I'm open to new activities as long as we enjoy each other's company and create memories together."
Her cheeks blushed as she continued, looking back at Leo, "So let's keep learning and growing together, supporting each other as individuals and as a couple. Tonight is truly lovely, and I'm grateful to have you in my life. Thank you for being your authentic self and letting me be a part of your world."
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Jul 28, 2023 2:40:48 GMT -5
Leo gasped softly when Rayl went out of her way to reach out for his hand across the table. His eyes are locked on her hand holding his, and finally his expression and body language yields into her touch. All of his biggest worries and fears melts into a puddle of affection, with just her single touch.
Her assuring words made his spirit soar, and the change within is immediately apparent to see by the slow affectionate smile that blooms on his lips. He hears her plight to view them as equals instead and Leo nods softly at that. Rayl is right. They cherish each other the same way, and there is no need for him to feel incompetent or lesser.
"Hand in hand..." He repeated her words, placing his other hand on top of hers. Her skin still feels cool, yet it feels comforting and refreshing to him, like morning dew. He can see all the joy and sincere feelings from her eyes alone as she speaks with him, and Leo had to swallow his overwhelming emotions before he does something embarrassing like instinctually dropping on one knee in front of her and ask for her hand in marriage. No, he needs to hold back. The time will come soon.
Once Rayl looks down at her food and begins sharing about her hobbies, Leo's eyes light up like starlight. They have the same affinity with reading and her insistence to try his specific hobby in art made him unusually excited.
"I have a large library in my house that you can peruse later. I usually occupy the art studio, and the doors are always open for you." His eyes crinkled as he smiles, looking giddy with anticipation. "Oh. That's right." Seeming to have just remembered something, Leo snaps his fingers. "My house! Do you mind staying in my house while you're here in Gradia? It's a modest house, but it's a roof above our heads."
They have too many places in Gradia to visit, Leo is very excited to show Rayl around. "I'd like to take you to Grande Achieves to borrow some books. We can also have a lovely picnic in Gradia Park, it's lovely. And..." His energy visibly dissipates until there's only a small smile on his face. "I'd also like to bring you to visit my mother." She was buried near where they used to live, he wondered if everything still looks the same as his childhood memories.
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Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on Aug 1, 2023 13:56:23 GMT -5
With a warm and genuine smile, Rayl watched Leo's eyes light up, realizing that they both shared a similar fate through their hobbies. It was a moment of connection that filled Rayl's heart with joy. Then, it was Rayl's turn to brighten up as he enthusiastically offered his house to her, knowing that his home boasted a wonderful library.
However, she was taken aback by the idea of sharing a house, and essentially making it their home, alone with him. It was an unexpected proposition, but it held a certain allure and excitement for her... or probably both for them.
Overwhelmed with appreciation and happiness, she stammered her response, "I... I don't know what to say... but I really appreciate it, Leo. I mean... I'd love to stay with you."
Her gaze lowered to her hands, and a hint of shyness colored her cheeks as she continued, "If that's the case, would you mind helping me organize a renting business for my house in Tenka? I'd like to stay here longer with you if you're comfortable with the idea." The last part of her sentence came out in a soft voice, uncertain if Leo caught every word.
At that moment, the air between them was charged with anticipation, as they both navigated the uncharted territory of building a life together. The prospect of sharing not just their hobbies and interests but an entire house as a home was both thrilling and nerve-wracking. Yet, it was a journey they were eager to embark on, hand in hand, discovering new horizons and weaving their destinies together.
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Aug 13, 2023 17:01:00 GMT -5
Leo feels like his heart would burst when Rayl agreed to stay with him in his house. He hasn't been home for a long while due to his travels, so he had called a housekeeper to clean it today. It should be ready by the time he and Rayl heads home.
"Th-thank you... I'm sorry this came out of nowhere. I suppose I've been playing the thought in my head without discussing with you beforehand. The excitement made me forget..." While he says that politely, in his head he's already thinking of indecent things to do behind closed doors. The artist had to cough to get his mind out of the gutter. It tends to do that a lot recently and he's unsure how to stop it, or whether he wants it to stop.
At Rayl's request to help her settle her own house in Tenka, Leo nods gracefully. "Of course. Not a problem." He knows some adventurers would appreciate to take a rest in her cabin after visiting the nearby temple in Quazmrl. He remembers how he himself was in that same situation before. "Heh... I recall you sheltered me there once. When I was building a bomb and collapsed by the sheer cold." There is a wispy look in his eyes as he thought back of the memory. "My body is so weak, you had to keep saving me from certain doom. Hahah... thank you, my love."
Adoration alights in his eyes as his gentle smile grows into a pure grin of bliss. Rayl's wish to stay longer with him had a strong effect on the artist. 'I hope by 'longer' she means forever... Wouldn't that be nice?' The thought of spending their entire lives together seems like a blessing too good to be true, but Leo desperately prays in his heart that is the case in the future. He holds great love for her.
During their conversation, they have finished their plates of dinner and the waiter came by to replace their empty plates with dessert. Two tiny spoons were placed at the sides of the single dish; an intricately made creme brulee. Frozen sugar shaped like a beautiful nest was molded around the dish, giving it a rather premium look. Leo blinks down at the dish, surprised apparent on his face. "Wow. This looks almost too beautiful to eat."
He gestures for Rayl to take the first bite, since it's a shared meal.
Leo looks calm on the outside, but his heart is beating wildly inside. After dessert, he's going to take her home. His home. Together. With her. In private. Perhaps sharing a bed. Despite himself, his face reddens at the thought.
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Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on Aug 16, 2023 7:33:45 GMT -5
With each compliment Leo offered, Rayl's cheeks grew increasingly rosy. She had never tasted the wine they had given her, and she blushed even more at the thought. Rayl, usually shy, was quite the sight to behold. Compliments, particularly those related to her appearance, were unfamiliar territory for her. However, this time around, she couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. The outfit she was wearing felt perfectly comfortable, and she even patted herself on the back inwardly.
"Truthfully, I share the sentiment," she confessed, her gaze resting on the wine they had received as a gesture of goodwill. "When we depart from Veyyard and set foot in Gradia, I found myself pondering... what if I chose to stay here with you? This nation is your homeland... would you allow it? Could I remain by your side?" A gentle smile graced her lips, and she affirmed her own thoughts with a nod. "So, I'm just as excited," she added with a soft chuckle, playfully winking at him.
Their plates had been replaced with a delectable crème brûlée for dessert. Rayl's eyes lit up at the sight of the dessert, and she could feel her mouth watering at the scrumptious treat before her. "This looks amazing," she whispered, unable to contain her excitement as she tapped the caramelized sugar with her spoon before indulging in a spoonful of the crème brûlée. Her blissful moan escaped her lips as the delicate, jiggly custard delighted her taste buds. She paused, suddenly feeling embarrassed as she caught Leo's gaze. "I-I apologize," she stammered, her cheeks flushing even redder.
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Aug 17, 2023 21:29:46 GMT -5
Captivated by Rayl's sudden playful wink, Leo's body moved forward on instinct to hold her, but he instantaneously sat himself back down. It was a battle of will against carnal instinct at this point. He was so quick in keeping himself in check, one would not even notice his body jerked forward earlier. She really had him in the palm of her icy fingers. The wink was so uncharacteristic of Rayl, he mistook it as an invitation instead of a playful tease.
His eyes were on her, enraptured by her every move as she begins to enjoy the creme brulee. He focuses on her luscious lips as she dips her spoon inside to eat the dessert, and Leo had to swallow a lump in his throat. He did not miss to notice her sudden moan, and suddenly the artist looks very, very frustrated. "Rayl..." He calls out her name in torment at the same time she stammered her apology. "...Are you teasing me on purpose?" He had to ask. He needed to ask.
Her reddening cheeks was the last straw for him.
Immediately, he calls for the waiter to get their bill. "We're taking the rest of the dessert to-go," he all but demanded. His behavior is a far cry of who he usually is, where he would ask for her permission first, but Leo is far past his patience for now. His sudden change in behavior could be from the wine, or this is truly how Leo is when he's so desperately lovestruck.
In a flurry, Leo went over to Rayl's side of the seat and firmly takes hold of her hand. "We're going to my house." He instructed clearly, but then dipped his head closer to her, whispering only to her ears, "I need you now. Desperately."
After paying for their dinner and taking the packaged creme brulee, Leo leads Rayl out of the restaurant hand in hand in a brisk pace. Flashes of light attacks them briefly, the paparazzis have been waiting outside the restaurant for a shot of their famous artist and his mysterious beauty. Leo gave them no mind and hurriedly walks past them with Rayl, fully committing into the thought of spending the night with her privately.
The pair left the giant building that is Degenera Mall and took a pre-ordered ride straight to Leo's abode, at the heart of the floating metropolis; the Gradia Park.
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