Chapter 31: Light Workout
Chapter 31: Light Workout
As they reached the training area, Noemi began her warm-up with practiced efficiency, and Sevi joined her, warming up side by side.
Despite his preoccupation with the new lead on Carla, he tried to stay focused on their routine.
'It really is weird how Carla knows Noemi's dorm or room since I didn't notice them interacting during class. Hell, Noemi only interacted with me.' Sevi thought.
Noemi glanced at Sevi, noticing his distracted demeanor. "Everything alright? You seem a bit preoccupied."
Sevi shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts.
"Yeah, just thinking about some things. I'm good. Let's get started."
Noemi nodded and continued with the warm-up exercises, her movements precise and disciplined. Sevi mirrored her routine, pushing himself to shake off the lingering concerns about Carla and the potential connections to Noemi's situation.
"I noticed you're still a bit sore from yesterday. Let's stick to some light workouts and stretching today. We can hit the more intense drills another time." Noemi said as she observed Sevi's soreness and gave a thoughtful nod.
"Thanks, Noemi. That sounds good." Sevi said, touched by her consideration.
Noemi guided him through a series of gentle stretches and light exercises, ensuring that he didn't overexert himself. They worked together in a steady, relaxed pace, with Noemi's focus on helping Sevi recover while also maintaining a productive session.
After finishing the light stretches, Noemi gave Sevi a nod of approval.
"You can sit down on the bench now."
"Okay, sure." Sevi replied as he settled onto the nearby bench.
Noemi started with a series of dynamic exercises designed to push her limits. She began with high-intensity sprints, her movements swift and fluid as she executed each sprint with precision.
Next, Noemi moved to a set of strength training exercises. She performed a series of powerful squats and lunges, her muscles tensing with each movement. The weights she lifted were also substantial.
'Hell, she lifts more than the knights back at home.' Sevi thought as he watched Noemi do her workout.
As Noemi continued her intense workout, Sevi marveled at her dedication and skill. He realized how much effort and discipline went into her training and how much he still had to learn.
After Noemi finished her intense session, she wiped the sweat from her brow and approached Sevi, her breathing slightly elevated but composed.
"That was impressive. You make it look so easy." Sevi said, his admiration evident.
Noemi chuckled softly. "It takes a lot of practice and hard work."
Sevi nodded, feeling inspired. "I can see that. Thanks for letting me watch."
"No problem. You can join in on the more intense workouts when you're ready," Noemi said and continued,
"For now, take it easy and make sure to recover well."
Just then, a notification flashed before Sevi's eyes, and he coughed slightly in surprise.
[Mission Alert!]
_____________________________
Mission: Do a series of paired exercise with Noemi
Rewards: increase Noemi's favorability (amount depends)
Penalty: Noemi's affection level might decrease slightly.
____________________________
Sevi's eyes widened at the notification, and he let out a soft cough as he processed the details.
'Ah, damn it. I'm sore right now system.' Sevi thought, crying inwardly.
Noemi glanced over, noticing Sevi's reaction.
"Everything alright?"
"Yeah, just... Can we do a workout together?" Sevi said with a wry smile, trying to hide his discomfort.
Noemi raised an eyebrow but nodded in understanding.
"Alright, we can start with something light and see how you're feeling."
Sevi appreciated Noemi's willingness to accommodate his sore state. Together, they began with less strenuous exercises. Noemi guided Sevi through some gentle paired stretches and basic partner drills.
Despite the mission's requirement, Noemi adjusted the intensity, ensuring Sevi's comfort while still making progress.
As Sevi and Noemi continued their paired exercises, Sevi's soreness made him less coordinated than usual.
"Ah..!"
While executing a synchronized move, his footing gave way, causing him to stumble.
Noemi, trying to maintain balance, was caught off guard as well.
They both went down in a tumble, with Sevi landing on the floor and Noemi landing on top of him, her chest pressed against his.
For a brief moment, they lay there, slightly disoriented. Sevi's heart raced as he found himself in an unexpectedly close position with Noemi.
Noemi, on the other hand, shifted her gaze downward.
"Wow, Sevi," Noemi said, her voice softer than usual,
"Your muscles are actually well-defined."
Sevi, still catching his breath, felt a flush of heat rise to his cheeks. He hadn't expected Noemi to notice—or comment—on his physique.
"Thanks," he replied, trying to sound nonchalant despite his embarrassment.
Noemi then quickly stood up. She extended a hand to Sevi, helping him to his feet with a practical, yet gentle grip.
"Sorry about that," Noemi said.
Sevi took her hand, pulling himself up while trying to hide his own flustered reaction.
"Yeah, I'm good. I'm the one who's sorry."
Noemi gave him a reassuring nod. "It's alright. Let's just get back to our stretches before we wrap up."
As Sevi stood, brushing himself off, he felt embarrassed.
'Why did she comment about my body right there? It's weird since on Earth, only guys I work out with in the gym compliments me,'
The compliment from Noemi, combined with their close proximity, left him feeling odd.
They continued with a series of gentle stretches and cool-down exercises. Despite the earlier stumble, Sevi found himself more focused on Noemi's guidance, appreciating her attentiveness to his needs.
[Mission Completed!]
[Noemi's favorability has increased!]
[Noemi's favorability: 24/100 --> 29/100]
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