The Passive Income System

Our bath was nothing more than cuddling and relaxing together, which was one of the best baths I'd ever had, but that's obvious. Being with someone you love is always a great feeling.

Afterward, Mahiru made a simple dinner, and I helped with the small prep work. Even after the relaxing bath, my body still felt sore, so I couldn't do much. Still, I was sure I'd be fine by morning.

We had dinner and went to bed; nothing more, nothing less. A nice, quiet change of pace. I was physically drained, so I was relieved she didn't want to do anything.

Waking up was a different story. I woke up earlier than usual, still managing to maintain a proper sleep schedule somehow, but my little angel was passed out. Not wanting to disturb her, I slipped out of bed and made myself a light breakfast while using the system to order something for her.

Afterward, I left, keeping my word to Saeko. Now, I was only a few minutes away from her house.

I was meeting her for our duo-training since I needed to make up for the days I'd missed. The only downside was the weather. Storm clouds gathered, shrouding the sun's usual golden glow.

'System, what time is it supposed to rain?'

[Utilizing weather module... 30 minutes, 27 seconds.]

'How heavy is it supposed to be?'

[Pretty heavy. Some areas may experience power outages and minor flooding.]

'Locations?'

[Nowhere near you for now.]

'Okay!'

That made me feel a bit better, at least.

I continued my walk, and in a few short minutes, I stood in front of her house. Though, to call this a house would be an insult, it was something far more grand. What stood before me wasn't just a home; it was a full-fledged estate, seamlessly blending the grace of traditional Japanese architecture with the refinement of modern advancements.

At its core, the building retained the soul of a classical Edo-period manor, broad, sweeping rooftops adorned with ornate tiles, wooden corridors that wrapped around the structure like the pathways of a samurai residence, and walls crafted with a balance of strength and elegance. Yet, beneath that old-world beauty, modern materials reinforced its every inch.

The polished wood that framed the structure had been expertly treated, resistant to time and the elements while still holding the rich warmth of natural grain. The shoji doors, typically fragile, had been reimagined with reinforced glass, allowing sunlight to filter through while maintaining both aesthetics and security.

A perimeter wall of traditional stone enclosed the estate, its surface lined with subtle yet advanced security features. A soft hum emanated from concealed sensors, blending into the tranquil atmosphere of the grounds.

The path leading up to the entrance was a perfect harmony of nature and structure carefully arranged stepping stones led through a garden of precisely manicured trees and shrubs, while a koi pond stretched alongside the walkway, its crystal-clear water reflecting the gentle sway of cherry blossoms.

The estate's main gate was a masterpiece in itself, towering wooden doors bound in iron, their surface bearing the artistry of centuries-old craftsmanship. It exuded authority, standing firm as the first threshold into this domain. Yet, hidden within the aged wood was a discreet keycard scanner, seamlessly incorporated into the design.

This estate was clearly a stronghold of discipline, refinement, and strength which is a fitting match for Saeko's image.

"Oh... my... god..." I stood baffled but managed to at least text her that I'd arrived.

In no time, the gates opened, and she appeared on a golf cart. A golf cart!

She was already dressed in a purple kendo uniform, her long purple hair tied into a high ponytail; a practical choice.

She waved at me with a light smile. "What do you think?"

I chuckled awkwardly, replying helplessly, "You're beautiful, and this place definitely matches my image of you."

"Thanks for the compliment. Also, my image? If you ever meet my dad or mom, you'd definitely change that opinion."

"Duly noted. I don't want to meet your parents now!"

"Why?!"

She suddenly let out a shout, the only time she's ever done that was when she was trying to win. During Kendo, obviously.

"Why the 'Oops'? You should feel more comfortable with friends, you know!" I patted my chest reassuringly, but she just looked at me with a raised eyebrow, her blue eyes practically amused.

"Yeah, we'll see. I only feel comfortable when I practice with the sword!"

Her eyes flared with passion, a heated intensity that made me wonder if she might start making out with her sword. A stupid but hilarious thought, not one I would ever say out loud.

I got on the golf cart, and she started driving further into the estate.

"So, if I beat you in a duel, would you at least feel more comfortable with me?"

Skrtttt~!

"WOAH, WOAH! SAEKO, WATCH IT!"

She suddenly lost control of the wheel. Thankfully, it was just a golf cart and the speed wasn't too dangerous, making it easier to deal with.

"S-Sorry! I just wasn't expecting to hear that. If you actually manage to beat me in this lifetime, I guess I'd feel more comfortable."

"This 'lifetime,' huh?"

"It's the truth!"

"Tch. We'll see, then!" I clicked my tongue and turned my focus to the passing scenery.

Yes, I was throwing a bit of a fit! Even I could do that sometimes.

"Hahaha~"

She laughed freely which was a good first step, at least. I saw her as a friend, someone who shared a similar passion, though hers far surpassed mine. She lived and breathed it, while I pursued it for self-improvement. She was like the steady rhythm of nature itself, while I was merely a traveler experiencing its flow.