Too many romantic entanglements?
The Book of Fuxi rolled its eyes.
"My life was predominantly spent during feudal times when capable individuals often had numerous wives or concubines. Do you think I've seen little of such arrangements? Don't misunderstand; to me, many modern beliefs seem rather unusual. On the contrary, Zeke's situation aligns more with historical norms."
The Book of Fuxi spoke calmly, folding its sleeves.
Fu Hua nodded thoughtfully. Indeed, although the Book of Fuxi is the child created by Fuxi and Nuwa, it did not inherit their views from the previous civilization. The world it knew best was largely characterized by feudalism. In those times, finding someone who remained devotedly monogamous until old age was actually quite rare.
"Since it's not about that, Little Fuxi... what is troubling you?"
"What do you mean? Do you think I'm hastily pushing you forward to gain favor with Zeke?"
"Uh, isn't that why?"
"...Little Shi, hit her!"
The corner of the Book of Fuxi's eye twitched at Fu Hua's naive questioning expression, promptly summoning its familiar beneath them.
Senti's eyes lit up eagerly.
"Rrrah! Old Antique, don't blame me for this one! Take this!"
With unwavering determination, Senti unleashed a punch fueled by fifty thousand years of training.
Fu Hua watched calmly as, in a split second, she first blocked Senti's wrist, deflecting the punch, then swiftly struck Senti's forehead with the edge of her hand.
"Crack!"
"Thud!"
"Ow, that hurts!"
Clutching her head, Senti stumbled backward, lost her balance, and fell along with her chair onto the ground.
As soon as Senti toppled over, the Book of Fuxi floated upwards, disregarding her misfortune. Instead, it approached Fu Hua, raised its tiny palm, and gently tapped her forehead.
"Slap!"
"You thick-headed one, remember who's in charge here."
"Yes, yes, Master Fuxi is mighty indeed. Please sit down; don't tire yourself out."
Fu Hua shrugged, extending her fair-skinned hand to serve as a seat for the Book of Fuxi.
After resettling, the Book of Fuxi sighed like a wise adult, saying, "All I wanted was to provide you with more companionship. Thick skull, your life spans incredibly long; even now, its end remains unseen. Back when I was still functioning normally, although you were reserved, at least you seemed human. But after my thousand-year slumber, you had forgotten how to cry or laugh. Upon waking, Little Fuxi thought you might have turned into some wooden or stone figure. I know that period of solitude must have been unbearably painful."
"Little Fuxi..." Fu Hua's eyes dimmed, caught off guard by the sudden shift to such a heavy topic. However, she quickly smiled reassuringly, tapping the head of the Book of Fuxi, her expression free from any lingering gloom:
"Don't dwell on it too much; I'm doing just fine now, aren't I? With you, A'Lin, Senti, and so many students and friends around me, I feel incredibly blessed. Being alive is truly a wonderful thing."
"That's only for now. I've come to realize that an imperishable body means little compared to the numbing effects of time on one's soul, which is the true relentless blade. The only way to withstand the passage of time is through emotions and companionship. Having ample emotional connections and support allows one to endure the long years without succumbing to loneliness and suffering, avoiding numbness once again... In essence, eternal life beings require companionship even more than ordinary people, especially you, oh stubborn head."
The Book of Fuxi gazed steadily into Fu Hua's eyes, as if peering through those emerald-like gems to comprehend her very soul.
Holding the Book of Fuxi with one hand, Fu Hua gently stroked its cover with her index finger, smiling silently. His words resonated deeply, leaving her speechless due to their accuracy.
With a sigh, the Book of Fuxi shook his head, saying:
"My attempt to bring you closer to Zeke was merely to provide some assurance for your future. Love is something we cannot offer you; only Zeke has that potential. However, it all hinges on your own desires. Unless you feel inclined and wish to take things further, with Zeke reciprocating equally, I won't interfere recklessly. Stubborn head, having cared for you throughout millennia, I approach every aspect of your life with utmost caution."
"...Thank you."
"No need to thank me; this is simply my purpose. In any case, until the day both of you genuinely fall for each other arrives, I must prevent any hasty actions. When you choose to give yourself wholly, it should be filled with happiness and free from regrets, not a result of some absurd misunderstanding. Zeke did admirably yesterday. Remember, not everyone could resist temptation as he did, given your exceptional beauty. Considering how he preserved your chastity, you owe him gratitude."
"Exceptional beauty? That's quite an exaggeration," Fu Hua felt touched yet couldn't help blushing. The Book of Fuxi's praise was straightforward and incredibly sincere, making her somewhat overwhelmed.
However, the Book of Fuxi shook its cover once more.
"Tsk, such a hopeless case. At this rate, you'll never find anyone willing to take you seriously."
"Then I'll just stick with Little Fuxi; having you is enough for me," Fu Hua responded playfully.
"Hmph! At least you're self-aware! Without my watchful eye, you'd surely ruin yourself sooner or later."
"Yes, yes, thank you oh great Master Fuxi for your boundless benevolence!" Fu Hua flattered, holding the exasperatedly rolling-eyed Book of Fuxi close. Despite its disapproving yet resigned gaze, she gently nuzzled against the book's face, revealing her radiant and flawless smile.
Meanwhile, in Zeke's bedroom:
The two girls lay closely entwined, exhausted yet contentedly asleep.
Standing by the bed, Zeke tied the belt of his black nightgown before adjusting the blankets to completely cover the breathtaking sight of these exquisite beauties sprawled out like blooming flowers or rare gems. He smiled tenderly at the slumbering girls.
Kiana, with her activated Parvati genes, had a slightly lower body temperature, but her sweetness was utterly captivating. Bronya, on the other hand, boasted petite charm and a delightfully soothing voice. One thing they shared was their irresistible cuteness—ah, this indulgence tonight seemed rather wild indeed.
Zeke silently reflected on himself, sighed, and left the bedroom.
In the adjacent office, teaware danced gracefully as it prepared a refreshing brew, while a stack of small pastries automatically arranged themselves on the desk. Zeke took a seat on the sofa.
One after another, data windows popped up on the table.
Holding a tea cup in one hand, he entered commands with the other, sending subroutines from the Central System to the Hive System's construction plan. Simultaneously, he distributed them to trusted lieutenants like Einstein and Otto, setting the groundwork for establishing an AI-based bureaucratic system.
Next, he reviewed Bronya's portion of the military operation plan. As expected, she had already taken care of most necessary arrangements yesterday. The next few days should be relatively smooth, and any new tasks could wait without causing issues—nothing urgent required immediate attention.
Bronya lived up to her reputation, anticipating Zeke's lack of energy today and completing everything ahead of time.
Zeke's lips curved upward slightly, amused yet proud of Bronya's exceptional capabilities.
Suddenly, his gaze shifted toward the office door, where a small head with distinct purple and pink hair peeked out, watching him adoringly through beautiful heterochromatic eyes—one golden, one blue.
"Come here."
Zeke smiled helplessly.
Sin's eyes sparkled, her purple antenna-like hair bouncing excitedly. She swiftly leaped onto Zeke, sitting on his lap, wrapped her arms around his neck, and gazed at him adoringly with her bright, wide eyes.
"Zeke~?"
"Mm-hmm. It's early; have you eaten breakfast?"
Zeke casually asked while picking up a pastry and offering it to Sin's lips.
"Eat this, Sin. After having three fried eggs, you'll surely grow taller soon! And these will develop more too!"
Sin placed her hand on her chest, already showing noticeable curves, her voice filled with excitement, akin to a child reporting good grades to their parents.
As she took a bite of the pastry, she didn't forget to hold Zeke's hand gently, extending her small tongue like a kitten to clean any food residue from his fingertips.
Feeling the soft and smooth sensation against his fingers, Zeke sighed.
"That's enough for now. You're still so young; no need for such elaborate gestures."
"Oh..."
Sin lowered her head dejectedly—indeed, age seemed to be crucial. Why couldn't she have been born just a few years earlier? That way, she could be as close to Zeke as Bronya and paramecium.
Zeke rubbed her head affectionately, letting out a gentle laugh.
"There's no rush. Just take your time growing up, and I'll always wait for you."
"Okay! Sin understands!"
"I have some work left to do, but once finished, I'll take you for a walk outside. Will you wait for me?"
"Yes! Sin can wait for any amount of time! I love Zeke the most!"
Sin hugged Zeke tightly, nuzzling her face against his chest, her smile incredibly sweet and charming.
Zeke smiled faintly, gently tickling under Sin's chin, causing her eyes to blissfully narrow. With her nestled in his arms, he continued his work, savoring the tender warmth of the young girl's presence.