Rebirth: Controlled Nuclear Fusion

Part 90：The Bluestone Alley

The University of Kyoto City, a prestigious hub, is formed by an alliance of top-tier universities from the Dragon Nation, including Longke University, Huqing University, Beida University of the North, and Kyoto University. It is a place where the brightest minds converge.

On the northern side of the city lies a narrow alley, a hidden gem. This alley, measuring 500 meters in length, is paved with cobblestones, giving it its name: the Cobblestone Alley. On either side, ancient buildings with grey-tiled roofs and two-story red brick structures stand proudly. By day, the alley is tranquil, almost like a living canvas of ancient architecture. However, as night falls, it transforms into a vibrant, bustling street, full of life and excitement.

Each storefront along the alley is adorned with red lanterns, bearing the names of the shops. The names evoke a sense of antiquity, such as "The Book Haven," "Rouge Pavilion," and "Wanshi Zhai." The entire street offers an enchanting variety of experiences—food, entertainment, calligraphy, traditional instruments, and the like. Additionally, the vendors are all dressed in ancient attire, immersing everyone in the past.

Patrolling the street are three teams of security personnel, also clad in traditional garb. Looking around, one feels as if they've stepped into the lively streets of ancient Chang'an.

At either end of the alley, stone bollards prevent vehicles from passing, permitting only pedestrians to wander freely.

"Jiang Fan, hurry up! One of my roommates said this place is so much fun!"

Chu Ruoxi exclaimed, hopping energetically. Today, in preparation for her date with Jiang Fan, she had dressed up—her dark hair elegantly styled, revealing her fair neck. A soft blue gown made her appear like a princess, while a delicate makeup application, done with the help of her roommates, enhanced her charm. Every smile and glance was captivating.

Jiang Fan, upon seeing Chu Ruoxi for the first time this evening, couldn't take his eyes off her.

They had come to the Cobblestone Alley, and at 7 pm, the street was at its liveliest, packed with people—students, couples, and groups of friends. Often, they came not to shop, but to relax and soak in the atmosphere, to relieve the stress of their busy academic lives.

"Jiang Fan, look over there!"

Chu Ruoxi tugged at his arm, pointing toward a stall where a sugar sculptor was making intricate sugar figurines.

The sugar artist, with a grin on his face, addressed Chu Ruoxi, "Little miss, would you like one? I can make it right here!"

Chu Ruoxi blinked her big, expressive eyes and playfully asked, "Can you really make anything?"

The sugar sculptor patted his chest proudly, "Of course! My skills are unmatched in the entire Dragon Nation!"

"Wow, that's amazing!" Chu Ruoxi clapped her hands in delight, her face beaming with joy.

Flattered, the sugar artist's vanity was greatly pleased. He beamed and said, "Since I like you, I'll give you one for free. Just tell me what you want, and I'll make it for you!"

After receiving such compliments, the sugar artist's eyes squinted with satisfaction. "Could you make a figure of him?" Chu Ruoxi mischievously pointed to Jiang Fan.

The sugar sculptor paused, clearly caught off guard. He usually crafted animals or simple objects, but a human portrait? His materials were too limited for such a request. However, unable to retract his boast, he hesitated before saying, "I haven't done it before, but I'm willing to try."

With a determined expression, he turned his attention to Jiang Fan, while Jiang Fan, for reasons he couldn't fully understand, couldn't tear his gaze away from Chu Ruoxi.

The sugar artist teasingly said, "Hey, young man, stop eyeing your girlfriend and look here!"

Jiang Fan's face flushed slightly at the remark, and Chu Ruoxi, suppressing her laughter, grinned mischievously. It was clear her outfit was having its desired effect, and she felt a little giddy.

As Jiang Fan turned to face the sculptor, a strange feeling of emptiness washed over him. He felt an inexplicable longing to glance back at Chu Ruoxi, who stood so close. The moment their eyes met again, his heart calmed.

At that instant, Chu Ruoxi noticed his collar was a bit wrinkled, and with a smile, she gently adjusted it. Standing mere inches apart, Jiang Fan's heart raced. A surge of conflicting thoughts flooded him—should he kiss her now?

The system had assigned him a task: kiss Chu Ruoxi for two minutes, and he would receive the coveted Bio-Chemical Super Theory, a perfect synthesis of biology and chemistry. These were the final components required for his remaining SCI papers in these fields. Once completed, he could wait for the results and, if all went well, obtain the ITER magnet materials design for controlled nuclear fusion.

Looking around, Jiang Fan realized they were surrounded by people, and the sugar sculptor was still watching. His hesitation grew. Even without the system's prompt, he found himself irresistibly drawn to Chu Ruoxi's beauty, making it almost impossible to resist.

As Chu Ruoxi helped him adjust his collar, their eyes locked. Her heart fluttered as Jiang Fan's intense gaze made her feel a sudden rush of excitement. She nervously glanced up at him, unsure of what he intended.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" she asked shyly, her heart racing.

"Ruoxi... I..." Jiang Fan stammered, unsure of how to express his emotions. Without further words, he gently grasped her hands, pulling them closer.

Their hearts beat in synchrony, the world around them fading. The thought crossed Chu Ruoxi's mind—could he be about to kiss her? But with so many people around, would it be too embarrassing?

Despite her worries, a part of her couldn't help but look forward to it. After all, they'd been dating for over a month, and though they'd held hands countless times, a kiss had never happened.

As she closed her eyes, readying herself for the moment, Jiang Fan swallowed nervously. He could feel his heart pounding as if time had slowed.