"You're really brave!"
Mystique let out a slow breath, finally letting some tension slip. After locking eyes with Ryuuto for a few seconds, she exhaled, a hint of admiration in her voice.
"You've got guts… more than I expected."
Ryuuto, of course, didn't flinch. Instead, a teasing grin crept across his face as he took a small step toward her.
"You know, Mystique… if I really wanted to, you don't think you could slip out of my grasp, do you?"
His other hand gently stroked Gwen's hair, holding her close. The dim light of the screening room made it easy—Gwen, completely engrossed in the movie, had no idea Mystique was there at all.
"I've never denied your power, Ryuuto. Your strength has skyrocketed beyond our expectations," Mystique said, glancing briefly at Gwen. Her voice carried an unusual seriousness.
"But do you realize who's going to deal with you this time?"
Ryuuto smirked. "Heh, don't tell me Magneto himself finally stepped out to take a swing at me?"
Mystique shook her head. "Not just that. I'm here to advise you—Magneto's strength is far from simple. Even if you escape today, can you guarantee the safety of those around you?"
Ryuuto's eyes narrowed. Cold, sharp. "Mystique, are you threatening me?"
She gave a long, deliberate look, then—without another word—stood and walked away. Not a glance back.
Ryuuto's eyes casually swept the seat she'd left behind. A small note rested there. Picking it up, he read:
Release Quicksilver immediately, or endless troubles will haunt you.
He chuckled, letting the paper crumple in his hand before igniting it with a small fireball.
"Heh… always interesting," Ryuuto murmured, a flash of excitement sparking in his eyes. The road to power was never smooth. Danger and opportunity walked hand in hand. True strength only came after surviving life-or-death struggles—and he was ready.
"Still got popcorn and soda left. Want some?" Gwen's sweet voice chimed, warming Ryuuto's heart. He pulled her closer, smiling.
"Hmm… how about you feed me? I don't care how much—I'll eat it all if you feed me!"
"Fine!"
Gwen blushed but gently fed him popcorn, her delicate hands moving without hesitation. Ryuuto ate happily, nodding like a kid getting spoiled. He glanced at her with a warm intensity, taking her small hand in his.
"Gwen… can I ask you something?"
"Yeah! Ask!" she replied, bright-eyed.
"Do you like being with me?"
Gwen froze for half a second, then her face lit up. Her heartbeat quickened, and she grasped the edge of her clothes nervously.
"Yes! Ryuuto… I've always wanted to be with you! Since the first time we met, you've been in my heart!"
Ryuuto laughed, satisfaction flooding him. "Perfect! Then we stay together. Forever. I'll protect you, never let anything happen to you."
They hugged, their happiness silent but undeniable. No need for extravagant words—they'd already said it with their hearts.
[Ding! New A-rank mission unlocked! Successfully defeated provocative enemies. Reward: 5 bottles of life potion + a bowl of Konoha Village Ninja Ramen!]
Ryuuto's eyes widened.
"What now?" Gwen asked, noticing his sudden change in expression.
"Uh… nothing! The movie's amazing, that's all!" Ryuuto patted her shoulder, though his mind was spinning.
He buried his face in his hands. "Shion… did I hear that right? Ramen… as a reward?"
[Correct, Master. Konoha Village Ninja Ramen! Delicious beyond words!]
Ryuuto groaned. "What the hell… you're seriously giving me ramen? The actual ramen I used to eat?"
[Uh-huh! And it's not just any ramen. This is authentic, energy-replenishing ninja ramen! Perfect for battle recovery!]
Ryuuto blinked, then leaned back, simultaneously horrified and impressed. "…Okay, fine. You better be telling the truth, Shion. This better not be some weird system joke."
[Master, do I ever joke about food? This ramen restores stamina, boosts energy, and is battle-ready! Think of it as a life potion you can slurp.]
Ryuuto exhaled, a wry grin forming. "Fine… fine. If the system thinks it can bribe me with ramen, so be it. I'll take the reward."
Gwen giggled, snuggling closer. "Well… as long as you share it, I'm happy."
Ryuuto laughed, holding her tightly. "Yeah, yeah… guess I'll be the generous hero for today."
The movie played on, popcorn devoured, soda drunk, and ramen awaited as a reward for yet another victory. For Ryuuto, the path to legendary status had just gotten a little more… delicious.