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theerurishipper · 1 year ago

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One thing that just isn't letting me go is that even all of season 5 goes out of its way to proof over and over again that Maribug in s4 having prioritized her partnership with Alya and making herself a team of 17 miraculous holders over Ladynoir was the wrong way to go.

Season 5 shows that, actually NO, Ladybug does NOT constantly need all kinds of other miraculous holders, Ladynoir as a PARTNERSHIP is more than enough to even go up against akumas with extra miraculous powers.

Ladybug doesn't need Rena secretly hidden somewhere as her actual main partner, she needed Chat.

The Resistance is almost utterly useless in s5 if it wasn't for Ladynoir getting seperated again in "Kwamis choice" and "Representation" (they even set LB and CN on the wrong path in "Illusion")

It's crazy how s4 was out here DEMANDING that Maribug is doing not a single little thing wrong by constantly ditching Chat Noir on the battle field to execute her actual plans with almost always unnecessary temp heros, while barely communicating her plans with him or just not spearing him any thoughts even when he's left behind on the battle field to take whatever he's being put through emotionally and physically while trying to survive all alone, so Ladybug herself can leave safe and sound and return and win looking cool with others.

And now the Resistance barely had any use in s5 either (for all it is, Chloé's akuma in Kwamis choice wasn't even important). What did Maribug waste all that time on the oh so necessary team for when "Recreation" couldn't make it any more obvious that all Ladybug ever needed was CHAT NOIR?

She was given the Resistance and every other hero they met around the world in exchange for Adrichat and they all were beyond fucking pointless. Nothing but visual spectacle with no actual purpose. And then of course Marinette becoming Bug Noire, loosing bc she was all alone and tried to connect with Gabriel to solve all this, bc - you guessed it - she didn't had her partner Chat Noir by her side.

It's stuff like this that makes season 4 even worse bc that season refuses to portray Maribug as anything but 100% justified and correct for doing EVERYTHING on Chat Noir's expense and yet the end result of season 5 still keeps it consistent that she did it all wrong. The just just refuses to own in bc Maribug being wrong is something that OPTIONAL for the viewers to ackowledge.

Especially "Penalteam" after "Kuro Neko" is the worst offender in this. Yes, that episode WAS about teamwork, but looking at it now it's so fucking obvious that it should have been about LADYNOIR healing and not being yet another Chat Noir torture porn episode so Ladybug can build an unnecessary team of 17 miraculous holders while letting Akuma Chloé have her way bc Marinette agreed to play entirely by her rules to use this opportunity to cement how "amazingly justified" she is for prioritizing the unnecessary team over Chat and actual effectiveness. Making it so much harder for herself than necessary and then using that as an excuse too.

Cause Adrien in Penalteam suddenly not knowing how to play soccer wasn't a retcon from "Furious Fu", it's was deliberately done to showcase how unbelievably insecure Chat was by the by Ladybug's side. In Furious Fu Adrien was still confident in their dynamic, so even if he didn't know all the rules in theory he still did very well by sheer instinct.

But all that was gone by Penalteam bc everything was always blamed on Chat and Ladybug settled the conflict in Kuro Neko by making sure Chat understands that HE is the problem in all of this, SHE has never done ANYTHING wrong, and he should in fact be grateful that she likes him so much that she even wants him back.

Meaning Adrien in Penalteam knew he wasn't perfect in soccer and immediately told Ladybug to "get the REAL team" bc he learned as CatWalker that even at his most perfect he wasn't good enough for her so nothing could ever justify risking inconveniencing Ladybug by having only him as partner when he might make a mistake.

The only true job Ladybug had in Penalteam regarding team-building was turning around to Chat, when he said that he doesn't know a thing about soccer and she should get the REAL team, and for ONCE give him support in return. Telling him to believe in himself and his abilites cause, NO, she KNOWS for a fact that he can play soccer, they already played it together and he did very well back then too.

THAT was the team-building that should have happened in that episode, but looking at Marinette shocked face in that moment she already forgot that she ever played soccer with Chat in the first place and 100% agreed with him taht they aren't the real team anymore the moment he needs any kind of help.

This episode also cemented it for the rest of most of the show's narrative from here that most Ladybug does is speaking big fancy words about how much Chat seemingly means to her but the moment he needs more than pretty words from her he has to go back to sucking it up and getting over it and better by himself (meaning becoming PERFECT for her in s5) bc Ladybug doesn't back her words up with actions bc that goes too far for her.

See her hyping them up in this episode and the moment Chat tells her of his insecurities it's immediately over with "partnership". Her CLAIMING that she's the epitome of a supportive and loving partner doesn't mean she actually is. She leaves him to pain and humiliation the moment he needs more than nothing.

So her then proceeding to once again abandone Chat on the battle field so akuma Chloé can emotionally and physically torment him - remember how badly Chloé bullied Marinette, one would think she wouldn't want Chat to accept that he deserves this kind of treatment for owing up to a weakness. But hey, Marinette seemingly concidered this unparalleled kindness he should THANK her for -

Getting the whole unnecessary team and helping THEM which meant leaving Chat all by himself who just told her he doesn't know how to play soccer, leaving him to humiliate himself further on a grand scale while also not being able to properly participate in the team building bc LB immediately forgot about what Chat said the very moment he told her and isn't paying attention to him either because proofing herself superior in her pissing contest with Chloé was more important.

So apparently she genuinely had only waited for Chat to be taken out to do her job. Cause she didn't wanted to be "in the wrong" for not having him use his powers in her plan or ask anything of him he might not be good at bc thats not useful to her so she rather waited for Chat to do something himself that gets him taken out so he blames himself and not her.

And the only thing to "make up for that" was Ladybug still drawing him on the whiteboard among herself and the other 9 holders to actually do their job, so she can pad herself on the back for "having done her best to include him"

Man, that episode is beyond aggravating bc all she had to do was turn to him when he told her he doesn't know how to play soccer and for her to get the REAL TEAM and for once do her job as his friend, "partner", leader and guardian by giving him emotional support and help him believe in himself and his abilites she should KNOW he has.

But no, we couldn't have that.

Because Maribug couldn't be asked to take an ounce of proper accountability for her bad treatment of Chat Noir so he had to build his entire confidence up DESPITE of her and not thanks to her, while almost all Marinette does even by the end of season 5 is throwing around big words of how much she loves him and how she's treating him with such unparalleled kindness, generosity and unconditional care and support

While even in season 5 her actions barely back that up. It's just Chat Noir having stopped asking the most basic things of her, meaning she is barely ever challenged to proof taht she actually meant that she feels sorry. And in most moments where she COULD have shown an improvement from s4 she mostly didn't do it bc she needs an invitation and 7 essays to convince her to HELP HIM.

Tbf I'm pretty sure that Adrien not knowing how to play soccer was a retcon (within the same season lmao) to justify Ladybug having to get the team together so that we could get the whole gang introduced. But if we were looking for an in-universe explanation, I think your interpretation of the scene is very interesting.

And I agree with your other points too. The show loves to pretend that Ladybug doesn't need to support her partner and that if anything happens between them it's actually his fault and she shouldn't be expected to apologize for anything or fix anything. And I haven't actually watched Penalteam in a while, so I won't speak about that. But what you've said seems to be what I'd expect from this show, so I'll just assume you're right about this like you are about the rest of it.

But I will say though:

It's especially interesting how right immediately once Chat - the easy bullying target - gets punished by Chloé for calling her out for expanding the length of time the match goes on just because SHE lost (by taking him out by unfairly tricking him and attacking him with several of her clones) only THEN does Marinette immediately summon her lucky charm to actually make a team plan against Chloé, using the powers and teammates in a way that actually makes sense. So apparently she genuinely had only waited for Chat to be taken out to do her job. Cause she didn't wanted to be "in the wrong" for not having him use his powers in her plan or ask anything of him he might not be good at bc thats not useful to her so she rather waited for Chat to do something himself that gets him taken out so he blames himself and not her.

I don't think this part is fair. From the little I remember, I think she just used her Lucky Charm after Chat Noir got caught because she realized they needed to win now. I don't think reading an ulterior motive into that is really supported. She does fail to provide him any kind of support, but this particular criticism is too harsh, I feel.

But yeah, you're right. I did feel that Penalteam tried to, idk, nerf Chat Noir so that the existence of the other holders could be justified. And they frame this as 100% a good thing in the season and show us that Ladybug doesn't need Chat Noir, she can call on her team and even use both Miraculous herself. And then they have her lose, but we're supposed to pretend it's a win, so like, what are we supposed to believe? This show went off the rails lmao.

Thank you for your ask!

#Meta #Asks #ML Salt #ML Writing Salt #ML Writers Salt #Marinette Salt #Ladybug Salt #Ladynoir conflict

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philomenie · 8 months ago

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MOON HILL

4 Beings from a different time, a different world than today. Rivals, friends, allies from the beginning of time. 4 magical beings, long separated, now reunited to save what means the most to them.

Moon Hill

Nicholas: Peuchen, vampire-like winged serpent, demon

Joakim: Fenris, Fenrir, wolf-like demigod

Nick: Kerberus, hellhound

Noah: Yokai, demon, Chi o nomu hito, blood-drinker, also Kyuketsuki, vampire

CN Fantasy, Mystery, Mention of Blood, Torture, Killing, Betrayal

Collage from @aubrey-melinoe 🫶🏻

ONE

NOAH

It is rainy, nothing else he expected from this cold part of the world, people scurrying crouched through the gathering darkness.

Bored, the strikingly tall man watches them for a while with his dark, almond-shaped eyes,

Humans... necessary for the sole purpose of feeding him! To make them subservient to him, to manipulate them into thinking that they have come of their own free will, that they are masters of their own senses, goals and thoughts.

A sneer forms around his mouth.

The rain has soaked his chin-length hair and drops are falling onto his black trench coat with the collar turned up.

He is also dressed in black in other respects, his black suit trousers, black leather belt, elegant black ankle-high boots, his tight-fitting turtleneck sweater that hugs his muscular upper body and whose collar he can pull over his lower face if necessary.

His hands are hidden in black leather gloves.

His most sacred possession, the katana of his ancestors, is hidden from view on his back under his coat.

In public, he hardly shows himself in any other way, not wanting to draw unnecessary attention to himself, to his body, his skin covered with tattoos, sigils and incantations, signs of his power and strength.

He is a yokai, a demon, older than mankind.

Chi o nomu hito, they called him in his old homeland, Japan, blood-drinker. Or kyuketsuki, vampire!

And that's what he is, a vampire, a blood-drinker who has wiped out entire families and clans, sometimes in a single night.

He was feared even among the other yokai, the only one who never feared him was Yuki Onna.

As always, his heart sinks at the thought of her. Now is not the time for feelings, he gruffly frees himself from them, concentrates, watches and waits.

"You're late! What kept you?" his voice dark and quiet.

"The weather, I don't like wet!"

Noah looks mockingly at the smaller man next to him, "You're getting old Nicholas, in the past even a hailstorm wouldn't have stopped you!"

"Times are changing! And don't tell me you're still as impetuous and reckless as you were in the beginning!"

Noah growls in reply.

Nicholas strokes his arms several times.

"What are you doing?" Noah wants to know.

"Trying to dry my feathers, I want to be able to use them and not have to crawl!"

"You think it's necessary to change?"

Nicholas laughs coldly, "What did you think? That we'd just march in there in human form and the guards would just leave him to us? After all this time?"

"I thought we could deal with them like that, yes. After all, we're older than them and stronger!" Noah's gaze remains fixed on the road.

Nicholas looks at him skeptically out of his blue-gray piercing eyes, then shakes his head with his shoulder-length, raven-black hair. The weather is really getting to him.

Like Noah, he is also dressed completely in black, but in tight black jeans, a black sweater, a wool short coat and a scarf. He also wears black leather gloves.

He is a Peuchen, a demon like Noah, fire his element. In its original form, it is a powerful winged serpent that drinks the blood of its victims and tears their bodies apart.

His human form is also covered in tattoos, sigils and incantations. Like Noah, he is feared by his kind.

"Where is Folio?" he wants to know from his old friend, "late too?"

"No, Folio is watching the entrance for us!"

"I hope not in his original form!"

"I strongly assume he is, if not human, then at least a simple representative of his species!"

"I wouldn't put anything past our hellhound!" growls Nicholas. "That's why Joakim is in this position in the first place!"

Noah sighs, "I know, but today is finally the day we're going to change that. And then they will pay, for every single day!" His eyes blaze with anger and vengeance.

"It's going to be a celebration, just like before!" Nicholas' face lights up with anticipation.

"Just like before, my friend! And then we'll be united again, no one will be able to stop us. We will regain our sanctuary and protect it for eternity!"

"So it shall be, so it shall be!"

"Once we have freed him, we have to find the Völva, the Kami Izanagi has made it clear. We won't succeed without the Völva!"

Nicholas snorts, "And has your kami made it any clearer where we should find these Völva?"

"We will cross her path, those were his words!"

"Well then, nothing can go wrong!" Nicholas barks sarcastically.

Noah's eyes narrow, "You dare to doubt the words of a kami, a god?"

"Since when do you listen to gods?" Nicholas laughs with amusement.

"Since everything went wrong, I at least give their words a hearing and a chance!"

"Yuki...." is as far as Nicholas gets.

"Leave it!" hisses Noah, "she's unreachable, and that's a good thing!"

Nicholas looks at his friend skeptically.

"When Folio comes back, which should be soon, it's on!" Noah's eyes glow black; through his open mouth, Nicholas can see his friend's fangs grow longer. Noah's thirst for blood has awakened.

Now he can't resist it, at the thought of the blood of their enemies, his fangs also flare out and his skin begins to shimmer like iridescent snakeskin.

FOLIO

To avoid attracting attention, he has turned himself into a dog. It's beneath him, but he owes Joakim, and he knows that his old friend will make him pay when they free him.

It's his fault that they found Joakim, that they kept him bound for so long.

It's not as if they hadn't tried to firee him before, but the Norns threw a spanner in the works. Let it be his fate....

Folio shakes his head in disgust, having to submit to those three old, blind women back then was the hardest thing ever. He would have loved to crush them all with his powerful jaws. But before he could even reach them, they would have cut Joakim's fateful thread and his friend would have been lost beyond repair.

Noah then called him and Nicholas back, complied, he had never seen Noah angrier.

Joakim's desperate roar back then, when he realized that even his friends couldn't do anything, still rings in his ears today.

Scowling, he turns his attention back to the tall, elegant building in front of him.

It is well protected, invisible to the human eye, but he is not human, he is Kerberus, the hound of hell.

The magical sigils and runes are cleverly embedded in the façade. The billowing energy fields generated by them can be broken by normal mortals. Impenetrable for magical beings, demons, gods and demigods.

But Noah is certain that it is possible today, as his kami Izanagi has assured him. Let's hope he's right. Folio remembers all too well the painful, unsuccessful attempts to penetrate the field.

There, the roller shutters on the doors and windows of the building close. The time has come.

Folio sets off, quickly running along the streets on all fours.

But before he arrives at the agreed meeting point, he wants to change. He will certainly not appear before his friends as a simple street dog - that would be beneath him.

Nicholas would let him feel that for a long time. He can clearly imagine Noah's appraising looks. He stops behind the wall of a house where he has changed beforehand, looks around and makes sure that no one can see him. Then he begins his transformation.

His limbs become longer and stronger, the mangy fur gradually disappears and human skin becomes visible. His jaws recede, his ears become human. He straightens up, he is strong, the smallest of the friends, covered in tattoos, sigils and incantations just like them.

He quickly grabs his bag, which he has left there, and gets dressed, also in black. Jeans, sweatshirt, boots, leather jacket, he puts a baseball cap on his short brown hair and pulls the shield low over his face.

He starts to move, he has to hurry now, he doesn't want to be responsible for them missing the time slot.

When he arrives at the meeting point, he sees that Nicholas has now joined Noah.

It's good to see everyone together again and hopefully they'll all be back together tonight.

"Folio, good to see you, man!" Nicholas slaps him amicably on the shoulder!

"Likewise, good to be reunited!"

"We're not reunited yet!" Folio winces slightly at Noah's sharp objection.

Damn this cold blood-drinker always manages to make him look like a failure. Folio angrily meets his gaze.

"Not yet, but we're going to change that today!" Folio sticks his chin out at Noah, belligerently.

Noah ignores the objection, asking instead, "What's the situation there, everything quiet?"

"Yes, the mortals have left the building, all the rolling gates are closed. The sigils and runes still activated when I left. Are you really sure about the date, Noah?"

"I'm sure today is the day, the night, when the Bound One will be freed!"

"Your word is in the ears of the gods!" sighs Nicholas.

"The gods now?" Noah suddenly grins at Nicholas.

"This lot must be good for something!" he snaps.

"What do we do now?" Folio wants to know.

"We'll go to the building and wait until the power of the seals breaks!" Noah replies calmly.

"THAT'S the plan?" Folio is stunned, Nicholas also looks worried.

"That's the plan!" confirms Noah.

"And then what? Do we just march in, greet the guards, and traipse underground to free Joakim from his damn shackles?! And we'll stop by the Norns in between? Or what?!" Folio gets louder and louder.

"Something like that!" Noah's voice still calm.

"Nicholas, you say something! This is madness!"

"Well, that's probably how his kami Izanagi saw it!" Nicholas' voice also full of doubt.

"His kami? Noah you and a god?" Folio couldn't be more stunned.

"Desperate times, force one to desperate acts and unusual alliances. And you know exactly what's at stake! You know very well why it came to this in the first place!" Noah's voice is as cold as ice.

Folio winces "I know it's my fault, I didn't think they'd find him....."

"Yes Folio, that's the problem, you THOUGHT!" Noah's voice and look disparaging.

Folio would like to hit him, to transform and tear the arrogant blood-drinker's neck apart with one of his powerful jaws while the others tear his body apart. But he knows that before he could even change into his demon form, Noah would have cut him in two with his katana.

Nicholas couldn't have stopped him. Noah is faster than the wind, even in human form he is superior to most demons, magical beings and demigods. Even gods would have a problem with him, as he has proven several times.

Transformed, he is the bringer of death to all. That is why he is the leader of the small group.

Even Joakim, as a demigod, has subordinated himself to him. Not from the beginning, there were fierce battles between the two. But he was no match for Noah.

NICHOLAS

Nicholas is skeptical, if THIS is supposed to be the plan, then he doesn't know either. He had expected something more when Noah contacted him.

He had sensed all along that something was changing.

The sanctuary had always been guarded by one of them, but the complete absence of the fourth guardian, Joakim, had slowly but steadily changed the balance of power.

He felt the dark, all-consuming nothingness growing ever more powerful, stretching its claws out at them, at everyone else.

Not that he or any of his friends were among the light figures of the known world, no, certainly not, but this nothingness that suddenly appeared changed everything.

Light and dark were now forced to make a pact against a common enemy.

Hence Noah's collaboration with the kami Izanagi. He could never have imagined this in his wildest dreams.

He is also not sure how Joakim will react to this news. He's probably fed up with gods for the time being.

Joakim's father Loki tried to intervene at the time, but to no avail, Odin was too angry with the Fenris wolf, had him bound, broke his power.

Nicholas sighs, none of this would have happened if Folio hadn't been in love with Skadi and accidentally revealed Joakim's whereabouts to her. Moon Hill, the sanctuary of them all.

The gods invaded it, captured him and bound him in Asgard with the thread Gleipnir.

Even Joakim could not break it, as it was made by the dwarves.

Gods are a sneaky lot, Nicholas is sure.

If anything goes wrong today, he fears that the divine wrath will descend on them all. These arrogant, ignorant Asen still don't understand what's at stake and Odin would probably rather kill the Fenris wolf than set him free. Out of sheer fear that Joakim is ultimately more powerful than the Aesir.

Nicholas is glad at this moment that he is a demon, not that other demons wouldn't have wanted to kill him too, not that, but being betrayed by his own blood has a different quality of infamy!

His own blood would never have dared to lay a hand on him.

He notices Noah next to him.

"Ready?" he asks him.

"Always, I'm just waiting for your signal!"

"The seals should break at any moment!"

"What if Odin has ordered the guards to kill Joakim if anyone tries to break free again?"

"Then they'll be in for a shock! You can't kill the Fenris wolf that easily! Joakim wouldn't let anyone get that close to him!" Noah is certain.

Nicholas nods silently, not fully convinced.

"What will he do with Folio when he's free?"

"Knowing Joakim, he'll be tempted to kill him. I really can't blame him. However, it will remain an attempt. Joakim isn't stupid, he knows what's at stake. He's always known!"

"Ragnarök?"

"Call it what you will, but yes, world conflagration, end of the world, all that. If we can't protect Moon Hill, it will happen soon!"

"And what is this Völva supposed to do? Who is it supposed to be anyway?"

"She is the link between everything. Her work is supposed to make the void disappear again!"

"Then let's hope we find her!"

"We definitely should!" growls Noah darkly.

#bad omens #noah sebastian #joakim jolly karlsson #nicholas ruffilo #nick folio #bad omens fanfiction #fanfiction #fanfic

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yunarise · 4 months ago

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Headcanon post - Dan Feng, Dan Heng &. the Shackling Prison

1. Questline Commentary - DH returning to the SP

I've already spoken on this a bit, but here a summary of my impressions: I wished there was a greater focus on DH during this entire sequence since his very existence is so closely tied to the SP. I liked that we at least got acknowledgement of DH having been there before (since I don't expect casual players to even know/remember this about him). What I disliked was the nonchalance. I'm not arguing that he should have refused going. I like that he went, but that decision should have had a greater focus. The SP is associated with many traumatic memories for DH and also DF, whose memories DH has at least partial access to. DH was quite literally born inside that prison and didn't see sunlight until Jing Yuan managed to push for his release.

2. Some minor add-ons relevant to my portrayal of DH

DH doesn't openly display his feelings about returning to the SP, but he still very much feels them. He will push through and do what he needs to do for Jing Yuan and the Express. He will take his role as protector very seriously, as he always has. However, once he is alone back in the archives, he'll fall apart. He'll heave and weep and shake while muffling his sounds because he doesn't want to worry anyone with his reactions. He may be more quiet than usual for a while after all this is dealt with, but he won't discuss any of it unless confronted by those he cares about.

3. DF's treatment in the SP

(tw for various torture methods)

I'll keep this brief since what we are explicitly told in game (whether during this quest or lore found in texts, etc.) is quite distressing.

Following the sedition, DF was moved to the SP. There, he remained until his (tempered with) molting rebirth. Prior to his death, he was made to endure horrible cold (referenced by Hanya in the new quest) as well as nails which were embedded into his back to quite literally hold him aloft:

"This place is filled with the cold air from the Northern Peak of the Polar Delve. Even the toughest long-life species would have a hard time enduring this."

"He dreamed of the Dracocatena Nails being staked into his body, and chains of corallium winding around him to hang him in midair in the Shackling Prison. He dreamed the elders coming and going to interrogate him about the truth of the Arcanum and the whereabouts of the dragon heart. He did not speak."

I wouldn't be surprised if the interrogations included the use of torture to get DF to finally speak - without success, obviously.

Since DF wasn't allowed to die as such, he was to undergo molting rebirth. I've seen screenshots of texts in the CN version of the game where said molting is alluded to involve a literal descaling (of DF's tail). I'd take this with a grain of salt since I can't find those mentions now, but I consider it canon for my take on DF at least.

4. DH's treatment in the SP

As I already mentioned, DH was born in the SP. As far as I know, we have no time frame of how long he was in there prior to being let go, but I personally set it at around 50 years. In this time, he had no explanation for why he was there, didn't know anything about DF and their relation, and was completely isolated outside of interactions with guards, elders, and Jing Yuan. He had books for enrichment, but he never once saw the world outside until the day he was released.

"The most notorious felons are locked away in solitary delves deep down in the prison. Those delves can't be opened without proper authorization."

While DH technically should have been seen as a separate entity from DF, it's clear that this wasn't the case. Jing Yuan had to push hard for his release, and even then it was still a touchy issue. I wouldn't be surprised if DH was mistreated while in the SP, but I also think that Jing Yuan would have done his hardest to put a stop to it as soon as he was made aware.

Edit: Something else I remembered is that the cell DH (and likely DF) was kept in was without light. This is stated in the description of his LC:

From birth, all that ever lay before him was but a lightless dungeon. To this darkness, irrelevant sins bound him... irrelevant memories engulfed him. He writhed, gasping for breath with every fiber of his being, attempting to clasp a sliver of light in this fathomless ocean.

5. Summary

In short: DH has a lot of trauma associated with the SP. He also is willing to return there for his friends and for Jing Yuan. Will he come out of that experience mentally/emotionally unscathed? Hell no!

-slaps DH on the back- This bad boy can fit so much trauma in it!!!

Anyway, thanks for bearing with my rambling. I might ramble even more, but for now it's time to crash. Hugs and kisses.

#––– ❛ headcanon 【 dan feng. 】#tbh this is shorter than i thought it'd be #hsr spoilers

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perhaps-in-anotherdream · 2 years ago

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[CN] Victor x MC – S2 CH 41 - CH 44 (Eng Translation - Part 1)

“The surrounding clusters of flames emit a bright glow, and the slowly rising lanterns encircle the man. It seems as if he is a god descending from the heavens.”

⌚ This post contains detailed spoilers for a chapter that is yet to be released on the global server. ⌚

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

[Disclaimer]: I’m actually going to subtitle the Victor parts for this update, so I won’t give myself double torture by adding sprites here LOL. this is more for keeping a transcript version, and adding the screaming at the end lmao 💕

—

【CH 41-1, Victor part】

The gears of the world rotate silently, propelling mottled time forward, ultimately toward a completely detached direction.

The black vortex contorts as if, with just an attempt to peep, one would be sucked into an abyss from which there is ever no return.

??: It’s indeed difficult to impose restrictions on the abilities of a powerful Space-Time Evolver.

??: You are indeed extraordinary to have persisted up to this point. It’s only appropriate to commend you for your abilities.

Victor turns his head and looks at the little boy who has appeared alongside the black hole. The boy is attired in a gentleman’s hat and a mismatched style of shirt and casual shorts.

Little Boy: Although someone helped you before, you must know that you won’t be able to cheat this time.

Victor has a vague feeling that he has seen this strange little boy somewhere before, but he doesn’t dwell on it as it doesn’t seem to matter.

He roughly has an idea of what the other party’s presence here right now means.

Every demand comes with its own price – this is a truth he understands better than anyone else.

Little Boy: Don’t try to secretly do anything. I can see everything~

It’s as if the young boy could see through his innermost thoughts with a single glance. He places a finger on his lips and speaks in a naïve tone that carries an unusual sense of composure for his age.

The black vortex expands, encompassing the entire space in silent and lifeless darkness. At this moment, the sound of a mechanical violin begins to play slowly.

A distorted space abruptly opens, revealing a crack from which a pair of black leather shoes emerges.

The little boy tilts his head and raises the tail note of his voice with a sense of intrigue.

Little Boy: Are you the Time Observer?

Zero: I would like to discuss a particular condition with you.

—

MC is back at the office, and after exchanging pleasantries with everyone, she heads back to her respective work:

After filtering through a variety of content, I draft a few program topics and want to discuss them with Victor.

As soon as I turn on my phone, I find that he has already sent me a text message.

Victor’s Text: “I’m currently in France. If you have any new proposal ideas, send them to me via email.”

How come he suddenly went to France?

A little puzzled, I type a line in the chat box - “Are you on a business trip?” But I delete the previous text after thinking for a moment and press the keys again.

MC’s Text: “I’m waiting for your return!”

MC’s Text: “Sent the new proposal ideas to your mailbox. CEO Victor, please have a look at them~”

MC [to herself]: Let’s add another cute emoji… perfect!

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【CH 43-13, Victor part】

The sky has just begun to clear up, but there is still a dampness lingering in the air of Paris.

As the wind brushes through the leaves and branches of the surrounding Sycamore trees, it makes a rustling sound that accompanies a faraway sigh, creating the reminiscence of a silent requiem.

The person in his memory used to really like this kind of weather.

Victor quietly withdraws his gaze, lowers his head, and lays down a bouquet of pure white flowers as he looks at the tombstone before him.

Looking at the cold yet familiar name on the marble, he seems to once again see the figure of that person who once took him by the hand and guided him to the window, showing him the birds seeking shelter from the rain under the eaves.

The past scenes are akin to feathers, gradually scattering in the shifting rainy season of a foreign land.

Victor closes his eyes and gently rests his forehead against the tombstone.

The Adam’s apple under his collar quivers for a moment. After a prolonged silence, he finally speaks in a soft voice.

Victor: [shredded my heart into a million pieces] I’m leaving.

Victor: [x2] But I will take care of everything beforehand… don’t worry.

As he speaks, his fingertips linger on the cold marble for a long, long time. It seems as if he wants to leave something behind, yet also wants to remember something for himself.

The evening breeze of the late spring brushes over the hair on his forehead, reminiscent of that hand that once gently fell on his head, accompanied by lullabies.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【CH 44-1】

At MC’s office–

MC is sorting out the materials for her proposal related to the “memory overlap,” and the entire situation, including the public opinion and commotion, is much more under control than before.

—

MC: I knew I should have come and sorted this out last night…

Sighing, I shake the document in my hand. When I subconsciously glance at my phone to check the time, a text message pops up on the screen just at that time.

“Don’t forget that you have to report in a moment.” The sender is Victor.

The conciseness of the content is infused with the familiar flavor, and I can’t help but curl up the corners of my lips.

Victor’s overseas business trip this time has not been a short one. And although we have contacted each other via texts, there are many words that simply cannot be conveyed through words.

After knowing that he would return last night, I immediately scheduled an appointment with CEO Victor, intending to do the so-called “work report.”

I quickly press the keys on the keyboard, typing out a reply:

MC’s Text: “I certainly haven’t forgotten. I have already sorted everything out!”

Victor’s Text: “I’m afraid if a certain someone hasn’t set off yet, she will be late again.”

I feel as if I can see the teasing expression Victor is wearing right now through the screen, causing my hands to accelerate involuntarily.

Just as I’m nearly finished organizing the documents and am about to get up, Anna comes over with a bundled proposal and hands it to me.

Anna: MC, there’s a proposal that you urgently need to go through. It’s about the redevelopment of Loveland City.

MC: Okay… Meng Chang? Why do I feel like I’ve heard that name somewhere before…

I thumb through the papers in my hands, my gaze falling on the compressed letters.

“Since assuming office, Mr. Meng Chang has made outstanding contributions and has significantly elevated the Evolvers’ social status.”

“This time, he is in charge of the Loveland City redevelopment project, and we are confident that he will be able to acquire even more remarkable achievements.”

The document also contains detailed notes on Meng Chang’s relationships with important figures and the key points for asking him questions. Rather than a proposal, it’s better to say that this is a publicity release.

Anna: This is the material provided by the City Hall, and in two days, there will be a press conference to mark his inauguration.

Anna: The company’s staff is still working on the past memories overlap project. So, I have no choice but to trouble you, the Boss, to make the trip personally.

I nod, thinking about how the main focus of my recent efforts has been on dealing with memory overlap, and the company has also been awfully occupied.

MC: No problem. The press conference will cover our association with the City Hall, and I’ll follow up. You guys have been working hard recently.

MC: Once we are done with the matters at hand, you all should take some time off.

Anna: Speaking of, aren’t you the one who should be taking a break the most?

Anna: Watching you running in and out with dark circles under your eyes every day, we are worried about you.

MC: It’s alright. I’ll find an opportunity to rest later.

Anna: Well, that’s just as well, I have something for you.

Anna suddenly comes up to me and places two tickets in my hand.

The huge Kongming lantern on the ticket enters my line of sight, and the words “Lantern Festival” are written in Chinese calligraphy.

–

[Tidbits]: The person encouraging MC to “go out with someone” to the Lantern Festival in “Victor’s Lantern Date” was also Anna~ 🥺💕

–

MC: Are there any festivals recently? How come there’s a lantern festival?

Anna: It’s a promotional event for the redevelopment project, and the City Hall sent out the invitations a few days ago. I put aside two for you.

Anna: When the time comes, remember to go out and relax~

MC: Thank you, Anna~

MC: I’m going to LFG to submit a report now. Is there anything else going on at the office?

Anna: Anything else…

Anna: Speaking of, something curious did happen. There is a guy in the finance department who hasn’t come to work for over a week.

Anna: We were concerned, so we informed to police to go to his house, but no one ever answered the door.

MC: What about his family?

Anna: We tried to call, but no one answered.

Anna: The police have taken over the matter, so all we can do now is wait. I’ll let you know as soon as we receive any updates.

I nod, and a slight vibration also comes from my phone at this moment.

I pick up my phone, and as expected, I see a line of text messages floating across the screen.

Victor’s Text: “I don’t even see the shadow of a certain someone so far. Didn’t you say you were already on the way?”

Quickly, I put the tickets in my pocket and walk briskly towards the door.

Even though I’m about to be labeled a “habitual latecomer” again, a tinge of joy still surfaces in my heart.

After all, what I can be certain of is that – I will soon be able to see Victor.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【CH 44-2】

As I approach the door of Victor’s office, I see that Goldman seems to be confirming something over the phone. When he sees me coming, he frowns slightly and draws a few steps back in silence.

I nod at him, then push the door open.

Victor (on the phone): Regarding this section of the proposal, it will be scheduled to discuss at tomorrow’s meeting.

The sunlight is folded into small speckles of light by the blinds, leaving marks on the carpet that reflect the passage of time. However, it is the figure at the window that captivates my attention completely.

With his back facing the door, his entire body is half-leaning against the wide windowsill. His voice is steady, but there is a hidden color beneath it that’s hard to discern.

In the distance, there is a long, dark suit draped over a hanger, while the sleeves of his white shirt are slightly rolled up.

I can’t bear to disturb Victor, so I quietly creep up behind him on my tiptoes.

Victor (on the phone): For the specifics of the rest of the itinerary, send them to me via email.

As he hangs up the phone, I avail myself of the opportunity and abruptly poke his broad back.

He turns around, his tone tinged with a hint of helplessness.

Victor: [sigh mixed with a soft laugh] Did you think I would be caught off guard by this kind of child’s trick?

As I look into his familiar and helpless eyes, my heart is overcome with indescribable emotions.

I can’t decide whether to say it’s been so long since we last saw each other or should I ask about what has happened during this time. Too many words rush to my throat, and in the end, they all turn into an uncontrollable urge to draw closer.

MC: Who asked you to leave the country just after you got your memory back? And it was always so difficult to be in touch with you.

As soon as I open my mouth in a falsely reproachful tone, Victor pulls me into his arms. His chest pressed tightly against mine instantly drowns out all my emotions.

Victor: [extremely soft, indulgent laugh] Now, does this count as being in touch?

I nod heavily in his arms, feeling this warmth that I’ve missed. The setting sun in the distance draws our figures into the fading twilight as if condensing this moment in time.

The next second, I feel a gentle pat descending on my head.

Victor: [soft laugh] Are you going to spend the whole day here hugging me like this?

I lift my head to meet Victor’s teasing gaze. Pouting, I straighten myself up, then take out the report I’ve prepared from my bag.

MC: CEO Victor, please review the report for this period.

Victor: This heavy? Looks like a certain someone has been very busy during this time.

MC: Not only have I completed a significant amount of work, but I have also made much progress. It won’t be that easy for you to nitpick this time!

The corners of Victor’s lip curl into a soft arc, his gaze deep as he looks at me.

Victor: [soft chuckle] In terms of self-confidence, I can tell that you have indeed matured a lot.

Victor: I just wonder when you will grow in terms of your sense of time?

MC: That was because you didn’t come back even after so long, so I made you “revisit the past”~

Victor: Sophistry.

Victor curls his finger and taps me on the forehead. Then he turns to return to the table and carefully flips through my report.

It’s not until he turns to the last page does he give the nod, a hint of applause tinging his voice.

Victor: The report is good. It appears that a certain someone has indeed grown up a lot during this period.

—

[Anika’s Tidbits]: BLESS CHINESE ITIREATIONS haha~ there’s a trend with Chinese speakers of using the same phrase twice, so it sounds really cutesy. The first time MC tried to make Victor say it was in “Advice Date (on EN)” 3 years ago LOL, and I just can’t with how he does it so naturally while imitating her now~ 😂💕

—

MC: As it should be. I burned the midnight oil for several nights to write these plans.

MC: Fortunately, the impact is under control now. Otherwise, there will certainly be an increasing number of people experiencing a mix-up between their past and present memories.

MC: And if it continues to develop, it may even lead to QUEEN’s identity being exposed.

Victor’s eyebrows knit into a frown, evidently, also remembering all the hazards this “QUEEN” identity had once brought with it.

Victor: You’ve done well. But resolving this memory overlap issue won’t be that easy.

Victor places the report that he is holding to the side, smoothening a creased corner of the document with his fingertips.

Victor: Memory is the most sensitive part of a person’s life, and it involves numerous connections.

Victor: As long as people believe that a particular memory is real, they are prone to act in ways that are beyond the ordinary.

His tone is solemn, and it seems he isn’t simply talking about the memory overlap issue.

And what’s more, given that everything with LFG is running steadily at the moment, there is no need for an explanation for the other things that could worry Victor.

Tentatively, I voice the conjecture in my mind.

MC: Beyond the ordinary… did something happen with BS?

Victor: There have indeed been some internal changes in BS.

Victor: To be precise, some people have chosen to leave of their own accord.

I can’t help but recall Victor’s rearranging of BS before. His thunderous and decisive approach really helped BS to eliminate its internal obstacles and achieve its ultimate goal.

But such a measure will eventually trigger a chain reaction. Additionally, Poseidon’s whereabouts are still unknown, making him a constant hidden threat.

Victor meets my gaze and seems to see through my concerns.

Victor: Those who left recently had no conflict of interest with BS.

Victor: As for Poseidon, the identity he used to disguise himself has already been found. Rest assured, he won’t be able to be in hiding for long.

Hearing Victor’s words, I finally feel a little at ease. However, his slightly creased brows make the air in the room somewhat stagnant for a while.

Having been with the people in BS, I know that they will get restless as long as there’s even a little hint of turmoil. So, I reckon the current situation is certainly not as simple as Victor is making it out to be.

Pursing my lips into a thin line, I lower my head and shift closer to Victor, crashing straight into his gaze without a care in the world.

MC: Victor, if anything really has happened, you must tell me about it.

MC: Don’t forget, I just saved the world!

Victor: Dummy, don’t worry about other matters.

Victor’s eyes sparkle with laughter, and he reaches out, stroking my hair.

Victor: The most important thing now is your proposal. Is there anything else?

MC: There is indeed something else. It’s about the interview with Meng Chang, the new person in charge of the redevelopment project.

MC: He seems to have come to Loveland City today. I’m going to attend the press conference tomorrow to find out more.

MC: Do you know this guy?

Victor: I’ve heard of him. He is an Evolver and has previously been in charge of the administration of Evolvers on the field.

Victor: But because of his eclectic ways of doing things, he was controversial in political circles.

Victor pauses for a bit before continuing again.

Victor: This, combined with his previously established position, gave him a strong follower base.

MC: What kind of followers?

Victor: Evolvers.

I let out an “ahh,” instantly understanding where this man stands.

Victor: So, even though the outside world was quite critical of him, he was able to soar to the top.

Victor: Reportedly, he applied for his transfer to Loveland City himself.

At some point, it has started drizzling outside, and fine drops of rain swiftly trickle down the glass.

Victor: You must be more careful when you go to meet him.

—

───── [Narrator’s POV Begins] ─────

In front of the City Hall. Leto has been waiting here for a long time.

Even though he tries to assume a calm and indifferent attitude, he still can’t help glancing at his wristwatch out of the corner of his eyes.

The curtain of rain outside has gotten heavier than before. On the misty street, the indistinct roaring at the far end is particularly ear-piercing.

The thunderclaps rumble faintly through the churning dark clouds, reminiscent of the muffled beating of snare drums.

Not long after, a black limousine comes to a halt in front of the entrance, and a pitch-black umbrella is unfolded in front of the car, blocking out all the raindrops falling from the sky.

The car door opens, and an amiable, middle-aged face appears under the umbrella.

??: Really sorry to have kept you waiting like this in this heavy rain.

Leto: Please! Your arrival in our city to lead the redevelopment project is a major event. How dare I will be negligent.

Leto: I have been looking forward to meeting you for a long time, Mr. Meng. I’m Mr. Leto, the person currently in charge of the Loveland City Redevelopment Project.

Leto says, smiling as he extends his hand. The man called Mr. Meng is dressed in a loose leather jacket, wearing a pair of glasses on his placid face.

With an apologetic expression, he quickly takes two steps and reaches out with a handshake, the corners of his lips raised into an invulnerable smile.

Meng Chang: Mr. Leto, you’ve already done a great job. I’m simply in charge of adding some icing on the cake. There’s still a lot for me to learn.

Leto also withdraws his hand. Naturally, he won’t easily buy such official civilities.

Leto: That being the case, I wonder where Mr. Meng is going to begin his work?

Meng Chang: Mr. Leto, you just asked the question that was on my mind.

Meng Chang lifts his head. His sharp gaze cuts through the heavy curtain of rain and lands on the towering and radiant LFG building in the distance.

Meng Chang: Let’s just start from there.

—

───── [Narrator’s POV Ends] ─────

—

【CH 44-4】

The next morning, the press conference at the City Hall is completely packed with journalists.

I’m about to turn on my computer and do some more prep work when I hear the sound of discussion coming from behind me.

Reporter A: Do you have any information regarding Meng Cheng taking office?

Cameraman B: What else could it be? He’s definitely seen how well the redevelopment project is going, so he especially rushed over to grab the credit.

Cameraman B: How could a politician who stands by the Evolvers still have the well-being of ordinary people in mind?

Reporter A: There’s nothing wrong with leaning towards the Evolvers. Aren’t we all advocating for helping each other nowadays…

Reporter A: I heard that he was also attacked for promoting Evolver policies. I wonder if that’s true.

Cameraman B: Where do you guys get this much gossip from! Zip it now. They’ll be coming out soon.

The next second, the entrance of the meeting hall is suddenly pulled open. Leto strides to the front of the group, while behind him is an amiable-looking middle-aged man.

A well-ironed suit is fitted to his body. As his calm gaze sweeps across the venue, the sound of chatter filling the space just a moment ago instantly quiets down.

Leto walks up to the podium and steadily places his speech draft on the table, holding the microphone.

Leto: Good morning, everyone. I’m Leto, the person in charge of the Loveland City Redevelopment Project.

Leto: As everyone knows, the Loveland City Redevelopment Project has been underway for a long time. And although progress has been made, it has also encountered many difficulties.

Leto: Therefore, at this special juncture, Mr. Meng Chang will be engaged in the redevelopment of Loveland City, overseeing and directing the said redevelopment project.

Leto partially turns his body and gives a quick look at the middle-aged man behind him. The man smiles and steps up to the podium, tapping his hand on the microphone.

Meng Chang: I express my thanks to our journalist friends for their diligent efforts. I’m Meng Chang.

The moment he begins to speak, the stage is awash with spotlights.

Meng Chang: I’d like to start by expressing gratitude, on behalf of the City Hall, to all those who have shown interest in and supported the Loveland City Redevelopment Project.

Meng Chang: My purpose in coming to Loveland City is not only to oversee the various aspects of the redevelopment but also to boost cooperation among all parties.

Meng Chang: The redevelopment efforts in Loveland City concern the interest of every resident, including both the ordinary people and Evolvers.

Meng Chang: I’m happy to serve as the communication bridge for this process, and I will welcome your opinions and suggestions at any time.

As soon as these words fall, Leto, standing by Meng Chang’s side, immediately breaks into a massive smile and applauds.

Meng Chang’s speech is simple and unadorned, which inevitably leaves a favorable impression on the audience.

Thinking back to Victor’s assessment of this man yesterday, I have a vague understanding of why someone with such thunderous methods could still thrive.

At this moment, the assistant standing next to Meng Chang picks up another microphone, and the reporters raise their hands in unison. My fingertips, which I try hard to lift, are instantly drowned out by the crowd.

Reporter A: Excuse me, Mr. Meng, will your work this time overlap with Mr. Leto’s?

Meng Chang: Regarding my relationship with Mr. Leto, I’d much rather call it mutual assistance.

Reporter B: You mentioned the term “obstruction” earlier. Does it mean you already have an objective for investigation?

Meng Chang: As the saying goes, “Rome was not built in a day.”

Meng Chang: If there is any headway in the relevant investigation, I believe our media friends will be the first to know.

Regardless of how pungent and tricky the questions are, he maintains his composure and speaks in measured tones.

After the previous reporter sits down, I raise my hand again.

Meng Chang: The last question. Miss in the back row, please go ahead.

As I’m called upon, I immediately stand up with the microphone in hand.

MC: Hello, Mr. Meng. I’m MC, from the program team of [MC’s Company Name].

MC: If I may ask, as an Evolver and as a leader, how do you regard the future of Loveland City?

The previously clamorous crowd in the surroundings quiets down, leaving only a few fragmented whispers.

Matters of identity and position have always been sensitive, and no one expected me to be so blunt in bringing this up.

Meng Chang: Miss MC, your question is quite interesting.

Meng Chang: Only, you are not the first person to ask this question.

He lifts his head, and his unperturbed face slightly curves upward beneath the spotlights.

Meng Chang: As an Evolver myself, I do pay more attention to the Evolver community.

Meng Chang: But my dream is to build a society where everyone can coexist in harmony, and I believe everyone present here must share the same vision as well.

MC: And what measures do you plan to implement in the future?

Meng Chang: It’s still too early to talk about measures now, but I do have a premature idea.

Meng Chang: As the proverb goes, “If one cannot clean one’s own room, how can one clean the world?” I want to help this society by cleaning up the garbage first.

—

The sunshine streaming in through the car window brings a touch of early spring warmth, but my heart seems to be covered by a layer of invisible mist, making it impossible for me to see through.

The flawless responses given at the press conference just now have earned Meng Chang a considerably favorable impression.

However, the words “clean up the garbage” that was spoken by his amiable face continues to send shivers down my spine.

MC: I hope I’m just overthinking it.

I shake my head and reach for my phone, intending to call Victor to confirm the press conference details. But at this moment, my phone coincidentally starts vibrating first.

Victor: Is the interview over?

MC: It’s already over. I was just about to call you.

MC: I’m on my way back to the office. I’ll head over as soon as I’ve got the documents sorted.

Victor: Alright, the time remains the same. Be careful on the road.

Victor: By the sound of your voice, it seems like things are not that simple?

MC: You’re right…

I heave a sigh and recount to Victor what happened at the press conference just now, and also share my own vague sense of unease.

Victor: Don’t worry too much about it for now. Since he will be involved in redevelopment-related matters, there will be opportunities to interact with him in the future.

Goldman: CEO, outside…

Suddenly, Goldman’s hurried voice comes through the phone, followed by some loud noise. It’s only after a while that I hear Victor’s voice clearly again.

Victor: Something has come up. Come over after you’ve finished organizing the documents.

MC: Mm, see you later.

As soon as I hang up the phone, Anna’s name begins to flash on the screen. The next second after connecting the call, I hear an urgent voice on the other end of the line.

Anna: MC, something’s happened.

—

By the time I rush back to the company, there are already many people gathered at the entrance. At the far end, I can see Anna standing in front of two men dressed in suits, frantically explaining something.

MC: Anna, what’s going on?

Anna: These two people claiming to be employees from the City Hall came with documents, demanding to take away all our entries and reports regarding the Loveland City Redevelopment Project.

As soon as the two men hear my name, they immediately turn their gaze toward me. The two tall figures stand rooted in place, exuding an intangible sense of intimidation.

I suppress the bewilderment in my heart and meet the opponent’s chilly gaze with a straight face.

MC: I’m the person in charge of [MC’s Company Name].

City Hall Staff: Miss MC, is it?

City Hall Staff: This is an investigation regarding the Loveland City Redevelopment Project. Please cooperate with us.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【CH 44-6】

The midday sun is shining fiercely, bright, and even a bit blinding. The oppressive air feels as if it’s pressing down on everyone’s chest, making it difficult to breathe.

I take a step forward and fearlessly meet the opponent’s gaze.

MC: Before proceeding, please let me verify your identities.

The investigator, clad in a suit, appears to have been ready for this and promptly retrieves a document from his briefcase.

City Hall Staff: This is our investigation order.

City Hall Staff: Signed by Mr. Meng himself, so we’re kindly asking for Miss MC’s cooperation.

As I take the document, the black text on the white paper makes my heart stutter.

“The City Hall’s Coordinated Investigation Order on [MC’s Company Name].”

Looking at the City Hall’s stamp and Meng Chang’s excessively neat signature in the lower right corner, my heart can’t help but sink.

This investigation order is indeed real.

But seeing how suddenly this investigation has been issued, I can’t help feeling that the other party was planning and preparing for it for a long time… I purse my lips and return the investigation order.

MC: May I ask how we should cooperate?

City Hall Staff: We need your company to provide, including but not limited to: the planning proposal, project plan, financial transaction proof, and complete files of relevant responsible personnel.

City Hall Staff: Once all the documents have been verified, you can collect them autonomously from the City Hall within ten working days following the completion of the investigation.

City Hall Staff: During the investigation period, relevant personnel must maintain immediate real-time communication to promptly confirm any pertinent information.

The other party answers my question like repeating a math formula.

The situation before me has made me realize that continuing to ask more questions would be simply pointless. It would be better to first see what the other party actually wants to do.

After contemplating for a while, I give a nod in Anna’s direction.

MC: Anna, please take them to retrieve the necessary documents.

MC: The two officers are simply following the protocols for an issued investigation, and I’m sure the materials will be returned to us soon.

Anna: …okay. Please follow me.

—

Anna leads the two of them into the office, and shortly after, a few more formally dressed people also flood in through the doorway.

By the time they walk out of the office, their arms are already heavy with documents.

A consistent and heavy sound can be heard ringing on the floor, reverberating in the ears of everyone present.

As the last footsteps fade away at the end of the hallway, the long-suppressed chatters in the office also erupt.

The minute whispers are accompanied by overflowing doubts, creating a pervasive atmosphere of unease.

I purse my lips tightly and force myself to calm down. Although it’s understandable for everyone to feel anxious due to the unexpected turn of events, I must not panic no matter what.

Allowing everyone to speculate randomly will only exacerbate the situation. Plus… if the investigation was actually designed, the current situation is precisely what the other party wanted to see.

After inhaling deeply, I walk briskly to the center of the office and clap my hands.

MC: Everyone, there’s no need to worry. The investigation is simply a routine inspection to cooperate with the redevelopment work, and it’s not intentionally targeting anyone.

Hearing what I said, the crowd around me lapses into silence.

MC: During my interview with Mr. Meng Chang in the morning, he stated that he intends to conduct a thorough investigation for the reconstruction work.

MC: All companies engaged in Loveland City will cooperate with the investigation to facilitate the next work steps.

MC: I apologize for not syncing this information with you all promptly. Keep up the good work, everyone!

It seems like they have accepted the reason I came up with on the spur of the moment. The clamors dissipate, and everyone gradually returns to work, as if the previous commotion was just an interlude.

—

Anna helps me to smooth things over. Once the situation has temporarily returned to normal, she discreetly pulls me back to the office, with a look of undisguised concern on her face.

Anna: Although we knew that a new official would be eager to make his mark, this Meng Chang’s actions are too extreme… I have never seen someone coming in and immediately issuing an order to investigate another person’s company.

MC: Don’t be angry, Anna. Anyway, we’ve done nothing wrong, so we shouldn’t be afraid of being falsely accused. Let them investigate thoroughly.

MC: However, the upcoming work related to Loveland City Redevelopment Project is likely to be quite troublesome.

MC: Send me the relevant plans later, and we’ll figure out our next steps after looking into it.

Anna: Okay, I’ll sort it out now.

As I watch Anna’s gradually receding figure, my brows finally can’t help from creasing into a frown.

Although the investigation itself does indeed hold water, the underlying reason does not withstand scrutiny.

Moreover, conducting such an extensive investigation with great fanfare, if nothing is found, could result in resentment from other companies involved in the redevelopment.

Unless… the other party is trying to obtain their desired outcome through the investigation?

If so, what exactly is it they want?

Numerous possibilities are entangled in my mind, but I can’t seem to grasp a single clue.

I knead my aching temples and glance down at the clock. It’s almost time to go to LFG for the report.

After the report is over, I’ll tell Victor about this. Perhaps he can help me disentangle the connections involved.

At this moment, out of nowhere, a news article pops up on my phone screen unannounced.

News: “Meng Chang enters a lengthy discussion with LFG! Suspected to conduct an in-depth investigation into the reconstruction plan!”

The huge headline is particularly eye-grabbing, and although the comment section below the news has been banned, countless reposts can still be seen.

I feel a tightening in my chest and immediately turn around, walking swiftly toward the door.

When I arrive at the entrance of LFG, journalists who have rushed over hearing the news are already crowded around the nearby street corners, waiting for first-hand information.

Even though the employees are in a rush, it’s evident that LFG is operating in an orderly fashion, indicating that the sudden investigation has not caused any disruption.

I walk upstairs, and turning the corner, I hear Goldman’s voice.

Goldman: In order to access the documents, we must wait for CEO Victor’s arrangements. Until his arrangements are made, please follow me to the lounge.

The four people across from Goldman are also dressed in suits and leather shoes, identical to the ones who arrived earlier to conduct a search at my company.

My heart can’t help but hang in the air again, prompting me to quicken my pace.

This hallway adorned with exquisite carpets, which I have walked down countless times before, seems especially long at this moment.

As I approach the end of the road, an elusive tension seems to permeate the atmosphere.

—

The moment I push the door open, the intense smell of a close battle assaults my senses. And there is Meng Chang’s amiable side profile that catches my attention.

Meng Chang: I wonder what CEO Victor thinks of what I said just now?

Meng Chang doesn’t seem to have noticed my arrival, as he speaks with an elevated tone while a sinister grin hangs on his lips that makes one’s hair stand on end.

Victor, standing at a distance, sees me and gestures with his eyes for me to remain silent.

Victor: Given that Mr. Meng is also in charge of the investigations, there is no valid reason for LFG to refuse.

Meng Chang continuously nods his head, seemingly satisfied with the outcome before him.

Meng Chang: I had heard before coming here that CEO Victor is an excellent cooperative partner, and today’s meeting with you has indeed proved it to be true.

Meng Chang: I also believe that the investigation results on LFG will not disappoint me.

Victor: I don’t really care about whether you will be disappointed or not.

Victor: And nor has LFG ever been obliged to please everyone.

Victor softly taps on the desk with one hand, his indifferent voice steady yet sharp.

Another tense silence ensues, causing one to be on edge. Meng Chang’s expression also becomes a little awkward.

He darts his eyes left and right, seemingly wanting to change the topic, and just then, his attention is drawn to me standing at the doorway.

Meng Chang: Aren’t you… Miss MC who interviewed me in the morning? I didn’t expect that we’d meet so soon.

Meng Chang’s eyes glide past Victor and rest on me. The inscrutable tone hidden behind his smile involuntarily causes a sense of apprehension to rise within me.

I purse my lips and subconsciously walk over to Victor while maintaining a calm demeanor.

MC: I also didn’t expect to meet you again so soon, Mr. Meng.

Meng Chang: Is Miss MC here to see CEO Victor too?

MC: You seem to be quite forgetful for a person of great wits. LFG is an investor in [MC’s Company Name], and we have many business transactions to deal with.

Upon hearing my words, Meng Chang's face lights up with a look of sudden realization.

Meng Chang: That’s right, that’s right. Miss MC’s company is also invested in by LFG.

Meng Chang: Oh no, the routine investigation this morning shouldn’t have affected your work, right?

MC: Their documents were valid and legitimate, and they also had Mr. Meng’s signature, so we naturally cooperated.

Meng Chang: That’s good to hear. However, I didn’t inform CEO Victor beforehand about this investigation. I wonder if he will be…

Victor lifts his eyebrows gently, not saying a word.

Meng Chang makes a small bow, as if he is genuinely conveying an apology.

Meng Chang: It’s my fault for not considering all the factors. According to regulations, I indeed should have informed CEO Victor first.

Meng Chang: But CEO Victor, please understand that I had no choice.

Meng Chang chuckles softly and adjusts his clothes as if nothing is wrong.

Meng Chang: I’ve already got concrete evidence of wrongdoings for the company under investigation, [MC’s Company Name].

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【CH 44-7】

The calm words are akin to a sudden clap of thunder, shattering the fragile balance maintained in the room.

MC: I’m unsure as to the source of Mr. Meng’s information. I wonder if there may have been some misunderstanding?

MC: Although our company has been involved in the redevelopment project, we have never had any conduct that violated the regulations!

Meng Chang nods, changing his expression to adopt a sincere one.

Meng Chang: Right. Actually, I also think there is a misunderstanding here. After all, [MC’s Company Name] has a great reputation in the city.

Meng Chang: However, when it comes to our job, the most important thing is the “evidence.” If there is concrete evidence, we have no choice but to investigate.

Meng Chang retrieves an old-fashioned cell phone from his pocket, repeatedly rubbing the surface of his thick leather glove against its buttons.

He holds up his phone, and the small LCD screen displays a vast array of open account details. Alongside it is an extensive list of overseas transfer transaction statements.

Meng Chang: As you can see, every transaction of funds from Loveland City Hall is made public in the community.

Meng Chang: Just three days ago, Miss MC’s company received a sum of money that was deposited to the company’s account, and it was then allocated to various projects as usual.

Meng Chang: However, the money that was originally intended to be allocated to different projects disappeared overseas after undergoing a series of account transfers.

Meng Chang: CEO Victor, you should know what this represents.

Meng Chang’s gaze casually sweeps over Victor, waiting for his response.

Victor: This represents that this company may be involved in major violations.

Victor walks up to my side with absolute composure, giving the other party a chilly stare.

Victor: Mr. Meng, since you’re aware of the relationship between [MC’s Company Name] and LFG––

Victor: Then you should also know what the accusation you just made implies.

Victor’s tone is almost flat, and there isn’t even the slightest trace of wavering in his voice.

An immense sense of oppression rapidly spreads through the room, causing the atmosphere to become so tense that the air begins to feel thin.

Meng Chang puts away his phone and resumes his previous composed posture.

Meng Chang: CEO Victor, there’s no need to feel anxious. As I said before, I also have some personal reservations about this matter. After all, this sum of money is not even worth mentioning in front of LFG.

Meng Chang: Besides, since Miss MC is the boss, it’s inevitable to have some oversight in managing the subordinates from her standing.

Meng Chang: So, there must be some malicious individuals behind this incident, isn’t that right?

Meng Chang’s tone is sincere, as if he truly doesn’t believe that the two of us would engage in anything illegal.

Meng Chang: There will definitely be numerous collaborations between the City Hall and LFG in the future, so considering it as doing a personal favor might be worth it.

MC: Mr. Meng, do you mind being a little more explicit with your words?

Meng Chang’s roundabout probing words make me unable to resist addressing the topic directly.

Meng Chang: I only need a result.

Meng Chang narrows his eyes, calmly looking at Victor before him.

The corners of Victor’s lip twitch slightly, and then he lifts his chin with an air of arrogance.

Victor: But it’s the responsibility of the City Hall to seek the results.

Victor: The request Mr. Meng proposed doesn’t seem to be in accordance with the rules.

Meng Chang: …the rules?

Upon hearing Victor’s words, a smile appears on Meng Chang’s face.

Meng Chang: If Mr. Victor were such a compliant person, perhaps he wouldn’t be sitting in the position he is in today.

Meng Chang: Efficiency is always the top priority to me, especially considering…

MC: [cuts him off immediately] Especially considering that my company has just collaborated with the City Hall to produce a promotional program.

MC: If you were to start investigating at this moment, the citizens would likely begin to question the competence of City Hall, right?

Seeing that the other party is about to start speaking in convoluted official language again, I immediately interrupt Meng Chang.

Victor frowns slightly, and I turn my head to give him a reassuring look.

Although the current situation is very critical, as Victor said, the responsibility for any errors or negligence in this matter does not lie with us.

Since it was deliberately set up by someone else, being in haste to clear ourselves may actually lead us to fall into their trap. At this time, it would be better to take a step back and turn the situation to our advantage.

This could not only help to dismantle the current situation, but also potentially ferret out the person who is pulling the strings behind the scenes.

And Meng Chang seems to be surprised by my getting right to the point like this, revealing a hint of astonishment.

Meng Chang: Miss MC, your words always catch me by surprise.

Meng Chang: Alright. In brief, as long as you guys can find the person responsible for this and recover the money involved, you will be able to absolve yourself of suspicion.

I look into the other party’s eyes, trying to calm my heart as much as possible.

MC: What about the timeframe?

Meng Chang: I can give you a week.

Meng Chang: If you can’t find this person within a week, I’m afraid I’ll have to meet the two of you every day.

Victor: We don’t need that long; three days is enough.

Victor blinks in a leisurely manner, his eyebrows arched sharply like a blade.

Victor: I believe Mr. Meng doesn’t want this issue to drag on for too long, either.

Meng Chang: From the looks of it, CEO Victor seems very confident, so I won’t inquire further.

Meng Chang: Although this isn’t a formal investigation, I hope that the two of you won’t leave the city. I’ll arrange for my subordinates to ensure your safety, in case any “bad guys” show up.

Meng Chang: I’ll be waiting to hear good news from CEO Victor.

Victor: You can see yourself out.

Victor turns sideways, and his silent figure is outlined by the light, which is his response at this moment.

With a steady gait, Meng Chang slowly walks toward the door, but just as he is about to step out, he turns around and says:

Meng Chang: By the way, there’s actually a personal reason why I don’t want the people from City Hall to get involved.

Meng Chang: Aside from my fondness for Evolvers, I also really like smart people.

The sound of Meng Chang’s laughter resonates through the room, akin to the invisible sword of Damocles.

The suffocating sense of oppression that follows the laughter lingers in the room for a long, long time.

—

Victor and I get into the speeding car, and the street scene outside the window continues to retreat in the rearview mirror.

The person driving the car is not the usual familiar driver, but instead is the “bodyguard” Meng Chang has assigned for us.

Although I understand that this is a deliberate form of monitoring us, the most important thing now is finding a solution to the problem.

I unlock my phone, and unsurprisingly, there are already several missed calls.

I immediately call back and hear Kiki and the girls’ voices on the other end of the phone.

Kiki: Boss, rumors are circulating outside that we've made illegal profits in the Loveland City Redevelopment Project.

MC: Don’t be anxious. I already know about the situation. No need to pay attention to the rumors outside. Right now, we have more pressing matters at hand to deal with.

MC: Kiki, contact the media outlets we are acquainted with and have them focus on who has been promoting these topics recently.

MC: Anna, keep an eye on what’s going on in the company and send me the list of employees who have left recently or seem suspicious.

MC: Afterwards, you guys just go about your normal work and leave the rest to me.

After meticulously arranging everything that needs to be done, I lay back on the seat, feeling a wave of exhaustion washing over me.

Victor: Your response just now was good.

Victor: I thought a certain someone would be flustered, but you were much calmer than I had imagined.

I turn sideways to look at Victor. His lips have a gentle curve to them, and his resolute gaze is filled with an expression of trust.

There has always been something about this man that makes one feel invincible, and this feeling sustains me at every moment.

Without realizing it, I reach out and take hold of his hand, subconsciously stroking his palm.

MC: I told you, I’ve grown up quite a bit.

MC: Moreover, compared to all the things encountered before, these are nothing.

My phone suddenly buzzes. Picking it up, I find that Anna has already sent me the list of names she has compiled.

There haven’t been many employee changes in the recent period, so it doesn’t take me long to go through all the lists of changes.

My gaze sweeps over the form, and I quickly lock onto a person.

I bring the screen closer to Victor, pointing at the ordinary-looking photo on the form with the name “Chen Hui” written next to it.

Victor: What’s your reasoning?

MC: This person has been working for the company for more than half a year and has been responsible for matters related to the Loveland City Redevelopment Project. He appears to rarely interact with others.

MC: But according to what Anna and others said, he suddenly disappeared a few days ago, and the police went to his registered address but couldn’t find him.

After hearing my words, Victor nods and then taps on his own phone.

Victor: The person you mentioned just now, we can focus on him.

Victor: However, we can’t rule out the possibility of other suspects, so I will assign people to investigate them too.

Victor: Regardless of who the other party is, one thing we can be certain of - this matter is far from over.

MC: You mean, their real intention is not what it appears to be?

Victor nods, his gaze steady and powerful.

Victor: The sudden appearance of this oversight indicates that someone must have done it intentionally.

Victor: However, the trick played isn’t sufficient to cause actual harm to you or the interests of LFG.

I nod. Thinking along Victor’s train of thought, I feel that my outlook on this matter has suddenly expanded.

MC: You’re right…

MC: If this matter was planned in advance, it indicates that the “rat” had already been planted in my company a while ago.

MC: This incident must have gone through a long period of planning and design, and they chose today as the opportunity to detonate it!

And there aren’t that many people who are capable of accomplishing a task like this.

Could it be GR? Or is it Poseidon, who managed to escape under Victor’s subordinates and whose identity still remains a mystery?

If this indeed were to be the case, what would be their purpose? Could it be because of the CORE in my body?

Or perhaps they are using this event to lay the groundwork for an even deeper conspiracy?

For instance, their target perhaps is Victor himself?

MC: Victor, if other motives are involved, could it be that what the other party truly wants is…

Before the words can exit from my parted lips, they are curbed by the expression in Victor’s eyes.

His gaze shifts slightly, meeting the eyes of the man driving at the front. An icy warmth flits across the corners of his lips, as if warning me to hold off on speaking for a while.

City Hall Bodyguard: Excuse me, CEO Victor, where will you go next?

The person seated in the front passenger seat seems slightly embarrassed upon noticing our eyes upon them.

Victor: Turn right at the next intersection.

Victor straightens his cuffs and speaks in a calm tone.

I subconsciously turn my head to look out the window. The sight of the familiar buildings and streets outside makes me blink in confusion.

This is the road to Souvenir.

Seemingly sensing my puzzlement, Victor leans in and approaches me. His breath stirs the locks of hair on my temple.

Victor: I’ve been looking at a certain dummy’s anxious face for too long. It’s time to get her to put on a different expression.

—

[Part 2]: Here!

────

#my badass duo at it again🔥 🔥 before ofc - the writers decide to clown and-- 🔪 🔪#HAHAHA with all these build-up throughout – when they shove it in your face at the end – it still comes like a fcking lightning bolt #Vic mum 🥺🤲 he literally said goodbye to everyone – except MC – cause he said he’d never ༼⁠;⁠´⁠༎ຶ⁠ ⁠۝ ⁠༎ຶ⁠༽#you’ll know what i mean soon ಥ⁠_⁠ಥ #mlqc victor #mlqc li zeyan #mlqc #mr love victor #mr love queen's choice #恋与制作人 #李泽言 #love and producer #mlqc cn #mlqc spoilers #mlqc translations

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