Chereads / Aeon Enigma / Chapter 35 - CHAPTER 35: Yokohama's Marine Tower Culinary Prelude

Chapter 35 - CHAPTER 35: Yokohama's Marine Tower Culinary Prelude

Aria and Kaito, having finally arrived, were greeted with Ryouichi's characteristic remark, "Took you long enough." Kaito, quick to respond, offered a playful apology, "Sorry." However, his attention swiftly shifted as he noticed Yuki standing beside Ryouichi. In a teasing tone, Kaito inquired, "Oh, is that your girlfriend?" Yuki, already accustomed to such banter, sighed, while Ryouichi reiterated, "I already told you, no."

Undeterred by Ryouichi's denial, Kaito continued to playfully insinuate, "Sure." Choosing not to dwell on the topic, Ryouichi redirected their focus, suggesting a visit to the Menehune Collection shop. Kaito, ever agreeable, responded with a casual "Sure," setting the stage for their exploration of the Hawaiian-themed store.

As the group made their way towards the Menehune Collection shop, anticipation lingered in the air. The shop, known for its array of Hawaiian goods, including Aloha shirts and jewelry, promised a visual feast of vibrant colors and cultural artifacts. Ryouichi, expressing a practical outlook, remarked, "I don't think we'll buy anything, but we may as well just look around." This pragmatic stance didn't dampen the group's spirits, as they approached the shop with a curiosity to explore its offerings.

Upon entering, the Menehune Collection shop unveiled its treasures. Shelves adorned with Aloha shirts in an array of patterns and colors beckoned, while jewelry displays sparkled with the allure of Hawaiian craftsmanship. Ryouichi, seizing the opportunity to plan their next move, suggested, "We can visit Eggs'N Things later too, or perhaps, not."

Yuki, displaying a more relaxed approach, chimed in, "We can eat later; let's just enjoy what this shop offers first." Ryouichi, conceding to the group's consensus, agreed with a simple "Fine." Thus, the quartet embarked on a leisurely exploration of the Menehune Collection shop, their footsteps echoing through the aisles as they took in the cultural richness on display.

As the quartet meandered through the Menehune Collection shop, their expectations clashed with reality as they failed to discover any items that piqued their interest. Unfazed by the lack of exciting finds, Ryouichi suggested an alternative plan, breaking the news with a casual, "Does anyone want to visit and stay at Eggs'N Things to eat food?"

Yuki, expressing her culinary disinterest, promptly responded with a straightforward "I don't." Kaito, aligning himself with her sentiments, added, "Me and Aria don't want to visit and stay there to eat either." Accepting the group consensus, Ryouichi conceded with a simple "Alright," steering their collective decision away from the prospect of a meal at Eggs'N Things.

Turning their attention elsewhere, the group ascended to the second floor of Yokohama's Marine Tower, embarking on a journey to explore its various attractions. The Travel Library beckoned first, a haven for book enthusiasts among them. Rows of books lined the shelves, promising a diverse collection of literary adventures.

Ryouichi, eager to share his knowledge of the tower's offerings, gestured towards the Travel Library, stating, "There's also a Community lounge." His attempt at playing the part of an impromptu guide was met with a lighthearted rebuke from Yuki, who remarked, "We already knew that. Stop acting like our guide, act normal."

Quick to acknowledge his lapse into a tour guide persona, Ryouichi offered a swift apology, "Sorry." Yuki, with a good-natured sigh, reassured him, "It's alright, it's just weird to see you acting like a tourism guide." Her laughter, accompanied by chuckles from the rest of the group, diffused any tension, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie as they continued their exploration.

Having explored the offerings on the second floor, the quartet found themselves drawn to the Marine Shop, a treasure trove of souvenirs and trinkets. Ryouichi, ever the informer, highlighted the array of items available, setting the stage for Yuki's own exploration.

As Yuki perused the shop, her attention was captivated by a particular souvenir. Despite residing in Yokohama herself, she saw an opportunity to share a piece of the city with her family, who had yet to experience its charms. With a thoughtful gesture, she made a purchase, explaining to the group, "I bought that to gift it to my family later. They haven't visited Yokohama, so I thought I could buy them at least one souvenir."

Curious about Yuki's family background, Ryouichi inquired, "Your parents live in Osaka, right?" To which Yuki confirmed with a simple "Yes." The exchange revealed a glimpse of Yuki's considerate nature, blending seamlessly with the camaraderie of the group.

With souvenirs secured, Ryouichi steered the collective journey toward the fourth floor. Passing through the third floor, the group arrived at "The Terrace Newtro Italiano" a restaurant boasting a bright, open space with a modern aesthetic. Their chosen spot near the window promised a view that would complement the culinary experience.

Seated at a table for four, the group immersed themselves in the inviting ambiance of the restaurant. The menu, a fusion of traditional Italian cuisine with a retro-modern twist, hinted at a delightful culinary adventure. Kaito and Aria exchanged smiles, a silent acknowledgment of the shared anticipation for the upcoming meal.

Ryouichi, eyes sparkling with enthusiasm, turned to Yuki and declared, "We'll have a great meal here, don't you think so?" Yuki responded with a nod, her agreement echoing the collective sentiment of the group. The prospect of savoring traditional Italian dishes with a contemporary flair heightened the sense of anticipation as they awaited the culinary journey unfolding before them.

As they settled into their seats, the vibrant atmosphere of "The Terrace Newtro Italiano" provided the backdrop for a gathering that transcended mere sustenance.

The ambiance of "The Terrace Newtro Italiano" embraced the quartet as they settled into their seats, contemplating the menu that promised an exquisite fusion of traditional Italian delights with a modern twist. The anticipation hung in the air as the waitress approached, ready to take their orders and guide them through a culinary journey.

As the waitress inquired, "Have you decided what you would like to order yet?" Ryouichi, ever eager, began to share their preferences. "I'd like 2 Bagna càuda..." he started, only to be interrupted by Kaito, who promptly declared, "2 Ossobuco."

Ryouichi shot a bemused look at his friend, retorting, "I can say it for us, anyways." Undeterred, he continued with their choices, adding, "We would also like a Warm Castelfranco with Vincotto and Blu di Bufala and 4 Lemonades." The combination of dishes promised a symphony of flavors, each element carefully chosen to contribute to the culinary experience.

The waitress, a paragon of patience and professionalism, jotted down their selections. Her practiced hand swiftly transcribed the gastronomic desires of the group onto her notepad, ensuring accuracy in each detail. With the order captured in writing, she inquired, "Would you like anything else?"

Ryouichi, confident in their choices, responded, "No, that's all." The waitress, expressing gratitude with a courteous "Okay, thank you," gracefully withdrew to convey their preferences to the culinary artisans behind the scenes.

As she departed, a sense of contentment settled over the group. The prospect of savoring carefully curated Italian delicacies in the charming setting of the restaurant fueled their excitement.