#love and producer translation

[perhaps-in-anotherdream]

[CN] Li Zeyan’s Candlelight Date (Eng Translation)

⌚Warning⌚ This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 烛火之约, that is yet to be released on the global server! ♡

[Translation Under the Cut]

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【Subbed Video】

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【Chapter 1】 

After being stuck in traffic for over forty minutes on the way to the airport, I slam on the brakes once again, staring in despair at the unmoving stream of cars ahead. 

The weather outside is gloomy, the sky overcast with heavy dark clouds, and the wind howls through the crevices of the car windows. 

Even though the evening has barely fallen, the sky is already darkened completely. 

MC: Feels like it’s gonna be pouring hard... 

MC: I don’t know if Li Zeyan’s flight has been affected. 

Just as I am about to look up the flight information, his call comes in. 

LZY: I’ve arrived. 

MC: That’s great! It looks like there’s gonna be a heavy downpour outside, so thank goodness you landed on time. 

MC: On the downside, though, I’m stuck in traffic... 

LZY: Given the weather, I could guess that already. 

LZY: Don’t rush, safety first. Turn on your headlights and take your time. 

MC: Don’t worry, I promise to follow the traffic rules~ So, I must apologize to CEO Li and ask him to wait for me a little longer~ 

LZY: No worries, I’ll just take this time to think about what to make for Pudding. 

The day Li Zeyan is returning from his business trip also happens to be Pudding’s birthday, and we’ve planned to have a small celebration at home. 

As I picture Li Zeyan making a birthday cake for the little kitten, the corners of my lips involuntarily curl upwards. 

MC: Pudding’s parents are so thoughtful! The little birthday boy is blessed with the luck of tasty treats today. 

MC: Rest assured, I’ll definitely get you to Pudding safely and in one piece. 

LZY: With a certain someone “braving the wind and waves” to come pick me up, I’m already luckier than those who can’t get a cab. 

MC: Hehe, this time it’s my turn to be the prince who cuts their way through thorns and thistles to rescue the sleeping princess! 

LZY: Well, it seems like I’ll have to wait a hundred years then.

MC: ...you just told me to take my time. 

A soft chuckle transmits from the other end of the phone, and carried by the car’s stereo, it spreads through the entire space, giving me the illusion as if he is right next to me. 

LZY: It’s not contradictory. 

LZY: Even if it takes you a hundred years, I’ll still wait.

–

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[Tidbits]:  This conversation here is a reference to one of Li Zeyan’s earliest ASMRs, “Sleeping Beauty,” where LZY said in response to MC’s question that if he were the prince, he wouldn’t let the girl he loves wait a hundred years. Whereas, in the reverse scenario here, he tells you that if he were the sleeping princess and you the prince, he would gladly wait a hundred years (இдஇ; ) though, for a man who literally did wait 17+10000(*n) years for you— a hundred years is, well, still unbearable to think about ahah (ﾉಥ益ಥ) 

–

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【Chapter 2】

I park the car near the exit, and as soon as I look up, I see Li Zeyan walking towards me, dragging his suitcase. 

I immediately push open the car door and run up to him, throwing myself into his arms as hard as I can. Both his hands are occupied by luggage, and I collide against him so hard that he staggers back a few steps. 

His familiar scent wraps around me securely, instantly dispelling all the tension and fatigue from the road. I nuzzle against his chest contentedly, earning a soft chuckle from above my head. 

LZY: Why the lack of courtesy right off the bat?

MC: I haven’t seen you for days, and I’ve made our big busy person wait so long. I can’t afford to be polite anymore. 

Li Zeyan smiles, lets go of the luggage, and draws me into his arms, lowering himself to rest his head on my shoulder. 

A soft sigh sounds next to my ear, and I sense how exhausted he is. I put aside my playful thoughts and stroke the back of his head. 

MC: I hoped you could get some rest after getting off the plane, but I didn’t expect this weather… 

MC: I’ll head out earlier next time! 

LZY: You already got here much faster than I expected. 

LZY: Let’s go, there’s a birthday boy waiting at home. It’s raining hard outside; I’ll drive on the way back. 

┈┈┈┈┈┈ ✄ ┈┈┈┈┈┈

As we head home, rain begins pouring down in torrents. Even with the wipers operating at their highest speed, the visibility only clears for a fleeting moment. 

Through the impenetrable curtain of rain, the emergency lights of nearby vehicles flicker faintly. The water pooling on the ground reflects the surroundings like mirrors, and the streets have transformed into an utterly bizarre kaleidoscopic labyrinth. 

I hold up my phone to record the scene outside the window when suddenly, a blinding flash of lightning splits the sky not far away, followed by a rolling thunder approaching from the distance, pressing closer and closer. 

I can’t help but shrink my neck and set my phone down. 

MC: This weather is just ridiculous… I’m sure today’s Moments posts are gonna be flooded with candid shots of the rainstorm. 

LZY: A certain someone has made significant strides. 

LZY: A few years back, you would get so nervous in this kind of weather that you’d grab onto other people’s clothes. Now, you'd just make a fuss about it on Moments. 

MC: Huh? When did I grab onto your clothes? 

I turn my head to look at him with a puzzled expression. Li Zeyan glances at me, and before he can even speak, a smile creeps onto the corners of his lips. 

LZY: That time when you asked me if I dared to like you. 

I freeze for a second, the familiar feeling of nervousness and anticipation surging to the forefront of my mind. 

Memories flood back along with the warmth of my cheeks, as I’m reminded of a similar night in the past mirroring this raging storm. 

The pitch-black darkness that descended after the power outage was so thick that one wouldn’t even be able to make out their own hand in front of them. I felt like danger, and the unknown would swallow me whole at any moment. But he was there with me, accompanying me for what felt like an eternity on that apocalyptic night. 

Back then, I felt like I couldn’t handle it on my own, so I wanted to cling to a straw, to hold onto this steady and exceptionally gentle person beside me. 

Snapping out of the reminiscence, I clear my throat to dispel my embarrassment. 

MC: Y-You don’t need to remember such things so clearly! 

MC: But come to think of it, ever since I met you, I don’t seem to have gotten rained on much. 

MC: Even if I forget my umbrella or can’t catch a ride, you always manage to “scoop” me up right on time. 

LZY: So, as a result, a certain someone has developed the bad habit of not checking the weather forecast before going out? 

MC: …It clearly taught me the good habit of how to “scoop” people up in crucial moments! 

The car stops at the intersection, waiting for the traffic light. Li Zeyan casts a glance my way, his lips curving into a smile as he strokes my head. 

LZY: Given that the person “scooping” me up is also the one I want to see, it does feel pretty good. 

His warm palm rests on my head for a moment before sliding down to my cheek with yearning. A small sense of satisfaction leaps in my heart, and I smile, poking his cheek. 

MC: I think I can understand why the prince braves countless perils to reach the princess.

MC: For this moment right now, I’m willing to endure any hardship~

–

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[Tidbits]:  The call-back of the apocalyptic night is from one of Li Zeyan’s earliest dates, “Doomsday Date,” where MC asks him if he’d dare to like her and if he’d dare to be by her side even if doomsday arrived – and the rest, as they say, is history, quite literally in this case ahah~ (இдஇ; ) 

–

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【Chapter 3】

“Bzzz!” 

As I step through the doorway and flip the switch for the pendant lamp, to my surprise, the light flickers and then abruptly goes out. 

The inside of the house is instantly taken over by the dimness from outside the windows. Pudding, who was originally crouching at the door to welcome us, lets out a yelp and scurries under the table. 

My mind automatically starts concocting a horror movie scenario, and I immediately step back a few paces. 

MC: What did the power suddenly go out? It was perfectly fine before I left... 

My words are barely out of my mouth when a series of extremely bright streaks of lightning flash outside the window. 

The howling gale rattles the window frames, while the water pipes exposed to the downpour on the side of the building, pelted by large raindrops, are making peculiar noises. 

The continuous flashes of lightning project the wildly swaying shadows of the trees onto the floor, making the storm outside seem even more terrifying. 

Li Zeyan sighs and steps forward, taking hold of my hand that is frozen in mid-air. 

LZY: Are there any spare lights or flashlights in the house? 

MC: Yes, there are, in my room... 

While saying this, I clutch Li Zeyan’s arm and carefully start walking towards my room. A hand reaches out and pulls me into a familiar embrace. 

LZY: Wasn’t a certain someone “scooping people up” pretty amazingly just now? Why are you so nervous now that we’re home? 

MC: ...I guess I’ve been overdoing it with the horror movies lately, and the after-effects are still a bit strong. 

I laugh awkwardly and, relying on the dim light of the flashlight, dig out a large, bulging bag from the storage box. 

MC: Rechargeable desk lamps, some decorative fairy lights, and lanterns. 

MC: They should work if we plug them into the power bank. 

LZY: ...That’s it? 

MC: They can provide light and serve as tools to set the ambiance. Isn’t that wonderful? 

Li Zeyan turns on a palm-sized rechargeable desk lamp and releases a small sigh. 

LZY: In that case, the gift I brought you can also be included to make up the difference. 

MC: Huh? What gift? 

Li Zeyan rummages through his suitcase, takes out an exquisitely wrapped box, and gestures for me to open it. 

I lean in closer and find a very charming candle holder with a glass cover nestled inside. 

MC: It’s so beautiful! As expected, CEO Li’s eye for things can never go wrong. 

LZY: Simultaneously doing the job of adding flowers to the brocade and delivering charcoal in snowy weather一 it definitely seems to be maximizing its value.  

LZY: Come on, let’s go and light up all the lamps that we can use first. 

┈┈┈┈┈┈ ✄ ┈┈┈┈┈┈

With me “lending a hand” by holding the flashlight through the entire process, dinner and Pudding’s salmon cake are soon prepared. 

Pudding, who had been hiding in the corner this entire time, also forgets his fear under the temptation of delectable food and begins prancing around again. 

After eating and drinking to our fill, I sit on the carpet with another small blanket, light a scented candle, and carefully set it in the candle holder Li Zeyan gifted me. 

Li Zeyan then casually plops down at the foot of the bed where I’m leaning, naturally stretching out his arm for me to use as a pillow. 

I look at Pudding grooming his fur not far away and can’t help but sigh with emotion. 

MC: Time sure flies! Pudding has grown another year older. I wonder what progress he’ll make this year. 

LZY: He wasn’t very brave when he was younger, but now he, too, looks after the house on his own and appears to be fairly calm and composed. 

MC: Why did you use “too“? I suspect you’re insinuating something about someone else. 

LZY: Just stating facts. 

LZY: The way a certain someone acted when she walked into the house earlier didn’t exactly resemble the “prince“ who came to pick me up. 

I glance again at the flashes of lightning and thunder rolling outside again, scratching my cheek awkwardly. 

MC: The house just went dark all of a sudden; I wasn’t mentally prepared. 

LZY: What about now? 

LZY: Are you still scared? 

I turned sideways to watch him. The dancing candlelight paints his side profile in a warm glow, and the subtle fragrance of the scented candle melds into his calm gaze, making me gradually relax. 

I hug his arm and pull him into my arms, beaming a wide smile at him. 

MC: I have my “fragrant princess“ in my arms now, and I fear neither getting swept by wind nor being battered by rain any longer. [3]

LZY: Are we sure about who’s in whose arms? 

MC: Does it really make a difference who’s in whose arms? 

Li Zeyan gives me a look that says “whatever you say,” and I smile victoriously at having my way before turning to glance at the pitch-black darkness outside the window.  

The small lights in the room are mirrored on the glass, reminiscent of stars, blurring into a cluster of halos by the unrelenting rain. 

Serenity and turmoil are separated by only a wall. I grasp his wrist and tilt my head, pillowing into his palm and nuzzling against it. 

MC: Luckily, you came back today. Otherwise, I would have definitely dragged you into “simmering a pot of telephone congee” with me all night long. [4]

LZY: That wouldn’t have been too bad either. 

MC: Well, that’s true, but it would have made me seem like I haven’t grown at all... 

I raise my head and look into his slightly puzzled gaze, feeling a little embarrassed as I lower my voice. 

MC: I’m clearly not a child anymore, and many of the things I used to fear shouldn’t be a big deal now. 

MC: Yet when running into situations where I’m not entirely confident, I can’t help feeling a little afraid. 

MC: For instance, a pitch-dark empty house, not being able to find the kitten, and a thunderstorm that I don’t know when will end. 

MC: I still can’t seem to be like you, to be able to keep myself from thinking the worst regardless of the kind of situation I’m confronted with... 

I soliloquize in a whispered tone, and the palm I’m resting my head on suddenly moves. I look up, and my fingers are immediately swept up in a reassuring warmth.

Li Zeyan is pillowing himself on my bolster, covered by a blanket that is clearly not big enough for him, creating for a rather comical scene. Yet, I find myself solely captivated by his extraordinarily serious gaze. 

He quietly watches me like this for some time before finally opening his mouth to respond. 

LZY: Then just be afraid. 

MC: ...Huh? 

LZY: Building courage doesn’t mean you should be absolutely fearless. 

LZY: If you have no reaction to the unknown and uncontrollable, that, on the contrary, is dangerous. 

LZY: For a dummy, knowing how to dodge in the right direction at a critical moment is also progress. 

He strokes the back of my hand meaningfully, and I clasp his fingers even more tightly in tacit understanding. 

In moments of fear and anxiety, I always want to hold onto something, to reassure myself that I’m not facing it alone. 

And this man in front of me, as fortune would have it, always happens to be within my reach, catching my insecurities and leading me along slowly. 

I think back to the first time I “grabbed onto” him, the gentleness in his tone that I had rarely seen, and I can’t help but laugh. 

MC: Well then, it seems I’ve been making progress since the first time I grabbed onto your clothes. 

LZY: Mm-hmm, it hasn’t been easy. 

MC: But I can only advance a little bit at a time. I’ve kept you waiting for so long. 

The corners of his lips curl up slightly, and his eyes, sparkling with a smile, gently embrace me. 

LZY: This isn’t work; nobody is asking anything from you. 

LZY: If you’re afraid, just light up a lamp.

–

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[Tidbits]

[3] LI ZEYAN WRITERS!!! CRIES AT THE SACRIFICE I HAD TO MAKE AND HOW THE BEAUTY OF THE WORDPLAY JUST GETS LOST IN TRANSLATION HERE 😭 anywho, as you might’ve already noticed, “rescuing the sleeping princess“ theme and the “seeming“ role reversal has been one of the running themes of this date. The term used here is 软香 (lit. meaning soft fragrance), which is usually used to refer to the delicate scent of a woman or a woman in general and, in the context of the times, a palace beauty. The full term MC uses here is 软香在怀 (lit. meaning having ‘soft fragrance’ in one’s arms), which also conveys a deep emotional closeness, a sense of security and comfort as scent is something very sensitive. What the writing does here is kill three birds with one stone— (i) conveying MC’s “prince and princess role reversal“ quip, while also delivering the emotions of the candlelight monologue two sentences prior, i.e., (ii) the fragrance melding into his calm gaze, the vivid imagery of her sensitivity to his presence itself, (iii) the reassuring effect of his being. 

[4] I’m gonna cry; this is such an adorable expression haha 😭 the term MC uses here is “煲电话粥,” which really does mean “simmering telephone congee.” The idea of it is to have a marathon phone call with sb, but it’s more intimate— similar to how simmering sth can take a long time and porridge essentially is a comfort food 😂 

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【Chapter 4】

The night is dark, and the rain seems to have weakened a bit. I hug the blanket and squeeze onto the small bed with Li Zeyan. No matter in which position we lay down, most of our bodies are pressed against each other. 

I watch the person beside me becoming a part of the scene I’ve been familiar with since my childhood days, and for a long time, I find myself unwilling to close my eyes. 

MC: It feels so surreal to have you and Pudding together at my place. 

MC: It’s like having guests at home, but at the same time, it feels like welcoming new members to the family. 

LZY: So, which one do you hope I am? 

MC: I’ve long regarded you as the latter in my heart, obviously. 

MC: However, this situation makes me seem like I’m not being a gracious host... 

MC: Having to deal with the bad weather is one thing, but who knew the electricity in the house would be unstable at a critical moment, and now my bed isn’t big enough either. 

I look up at the small pink pillow under Li Zeyan’s head and sigh softly. Li Zeyan, however, just smiles calmly and brushes aside the hair falling over my face. 

MC: Be careful when you roll over. If you’re afraid of falling off, just hug me a little tighter~ 

LZY: [i’m cRY at how he just plays along with you haha] It’s certainly something to be afraid of. 

Li Zeyan says this as he gets up to turn off the lights, and the room is plunged into darkness once again. 

I reach out my arms towards him and am immediately swept back into his arms. 

MC: Thank you, CEO Li~ How about I repay you with a goodnight kiss? 

LZY: That’s it? 

MC: Then what else do you want? 

I blink my eyes at him, and suddenly, he lifts his hand to cover my sight. 

A soft warmth captures my lips, swallowing my confusion. 

He holds me too tightly in the square of his arms, and his broad palm accidentally presses on my nose, causing my already erratic breathing to become even more difficult to maintain. 

I punch him indignantly, and Li Zeyan finally moves his hand away, his fingers cradling my face. 

LZY: Didn’t you say you wanted to repay me? 

MC: T-This isn’t what I had in mind! 

LZY: Is this not good? 

His warm finger pads caress the side of my face in a back-and-forth motion, leaving me with no refuge to escape but to gaze into his smiling eyes. 

LZY: Instead of letting your imagination run wild every time you’re scared, why not think about something that can put your mind at ease?  

LZY: For example, me. 

LZY: So, consider this as collecting a tip in advance to cover your memories.  

A soft chuckle drifts from above me, and he lifts my face again. With the last hint of light also overlaid, I close my eyes, welcoming this novel memory pertaining to the night’s darkness. 

┈┈┈┈┈┈ ✄ ┈┈┈┈┈┈

The next morning, the sky finally clears up. 

The entire city looks as if it has taken a bath. Under the early morning sunlight, there are glittering lights refracted by water droplets everywhere. 

I summon every bit of my self-control and more to extract myself from Li Zeyan’s warm embrace and rise early to make breakfast. 

Originally, I planned to have him take the day off and recover from jet lag, but as soon as he gets out of bed, he receives a call from LFG, saying there is an urgent matter that needs to be dealt with in person. 

I watch as a certain someone at the dining table finishes his breakfast with a sullen look on his face and can’t help but burst into laughter. 

MC: Who knew even CEO Li could show such a “rebellious” expression about having to work overtime. 

LZY: ...It’s just that I haven’t gotten over the jet lag yet.  

MC: Who told you not to sleep obediently last night? 

I stand up with a laugh before he can glare at me and push his suitcase to the door for him. Li Zeyan dons his coat, seems to hesitate for a moment, and then turns back to look at me. 

MC: What’s wrong? 

LZY: Nothing. 

MC: It doesn’t seem like you’ve left anything behind, have you? 

I look around to check while speaking, but I realize that Li Zeyan has kept his gaze trained on me, with no intention of searching for anything. 

I blink my eyes, and an adorable guess bubbles up in my heart. 

MC: Could it be that... CEO Li is unwilling to leave? 

Li Zeyan grips the handle of the suitcase, averts his eyes, and smiles. 

LZY: Let Pudding stay at your place for one more day. 

MC: No worries, we’ll get along perfectly. 

He doesn’t give a direct answer to my question, so I take it as his tacit assent and continue along with his words. 

LZY: He ate quite a lot last night, so feed him less cat food today. 

MC: Understood~ 

LZY: Be careful with the electricity today, and if you run into any issues, reach out to me right away. 

MC: Uh-huh, anything else you want to remind me of? 

I stare at him, smiling giddily. Li Zeyan opens his mouth, but in the end, he just displays a helpless expression and says nothing. 

The rare instance of not being able to find the words to say, the rare moments of being dumbstruck and not knowing how to reply, the rare scenario of dragging his feet about going to work... 

All of this shows that he is really unwilling to leave. 

I smile even happier and tiptoe up to lock my arms around his neck.  

Li Zeyan seems a bit puzzled, but he promptly supports my waist and arches an eyebrow, waiting for me to continue. 

MC: Hehe, consider this as a tip you’re paying in advance. 

MC: This way, whenever you feel overwhelmed in the future, you will think of only me. 

I mimic his words from last night, and even reach up to muss his hair. 

LZY: Little copycat. 

Li Zeyan seems to want to resist this “childish” act subconsciously, but his arms betray his honest feelings and draw me in even tighter. 

He looks at me with a silly smile on my face, about to say something when I suddenly feel a tickle on my ankle, as if something furry is rubbing against it. 

Just as I’m about to look down, my face is pinched by someone. 

I’m compelled to raise my head and see the sunlight falling on Li Zeyan. 

The locks of hair hanging over his forehead and eyelashes are all bathed in dazzling, golden-bright luster. He reminds one of a big cat who has just woken up, making people irresistibly want to get closer to him. 

And he does exactly as I wished, taking the initiative to bring this warmth to me. 

The distance between us is reduced to zero, and I naturally close my eyes, welcoming this kiss infused with the warmth of the sunlight. 

Even if a person grows accustomed to the humidity of this city, they will still rejoice when the sky clears and the sunshine beams down. 

Even for those who can see the person they love every day and kiss them whenever they want, they will still find that any small separation feels too long. 

The meow of the kitten rises from our feet, as if it also wants to participate in this wordless goodbye. I gently bite Li Zeyan’s lips, and he, rather reluctantly, pulls back just a bit. 

MC: Mr. Customer, you’re being too generous with your tip. 

With his eyes cast down, he continues to gaze at me, his breath still lingering at the edge of my lips. 

LZY: Because I’ve already fulfilled the conditions you set. 

LZY: Now that I’ve paid double the tip, I’m asking for an upgrade on the terms. 

He raises an eyebrow, as if he is genuinely negotiating with me. 

At such proximity, my mind is already a muddled mess, yet I still manage to capture the answer he desires from the look of yearning in his eyes. 

I strive to muster my willpower, rise on tiptoe, and kiss his lips again.

MC: Then you must work diligently and clock out early... 

MC: And who knows, perhaps I’ll suddenly appear when you’re missing me?

──────────────────────────────────────────

[sylvia-forest]

[CN] Shaw's Dual Cultivation Pact Date - Part 2

⚡Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a Date which hasn’t been released in EN yet!⚡

Proceed at your own risk, I guess? 😂 Although it's not that spicy but still, a warning is a warning 🤭

[Section 3]

A month had passed since I had "swept Shaw out the door," and he had not come back since.

He might also feel a bit embarrassed and angry.

MC: But you can't blame me for this; anyone who heard such words would… Villager: What did you say?

I realized that I had gotten distracted thinking about Shaw again, so I quickly cleared my throat and refocused my attention.

MC: It's nothing. You just said that there was evil energy surging under the mountain? Villager: That’s right! I don’t know what happened this time, but the formation barriers you set up don’t seem to have any effect!! Villager: Although Taoist Master Shaw doesn’t permit us to come to find you, we saw his condition and it was truly… MC: Shaw? What happened to him?

Startled, I interrupted him. The villagers were surprised to see me speaking so urgently and were taken aback, but they still answered honestly.

Villager: Wasn't it you who sent Master Shaw down the mountain to help us exorcize demons and spirits? There have been too many demons recently, and he has been busy running around everywhere. Villager: Perhaps it's because he's been working too hard. In the past month, Master Shaw's temper has become increasingly bad, and his methods for exorcizing demons have become more and more…

The villager hesitated, stammering as they began to speak.

Villager: It feels like... Master Shaw is showing signs of being possessed by demons. MC: ...possessed?!

Seeing me gasp, the villager began to sweat profusely, and their speech quickened.

Villager: We know that Master Shaw is a good person! But we're just afraid that if he starts treating people like this in the future… Villager: Ahem, what I mean is that we are worried about Taoist Master Shaw, so, that’s why we want to ask you to come out and help your disciple! Villager: If he really does something irreversible, it would tarnish the good name of Fairy MC! MC: ...I understand. MC: I'll handle the matter with Shaw. After you go down the mountain, instruct everyone not to go out today. Villager: Yes, I'll go right away!

The villager breathed a sigh of relief, thanked me profusely, and left.

I lowered my eyes and counted with my fingers.

MC: On the seventh day of the seventh month, when the yin energy is at its peak... It turns out it's already come to this.

I gathered my loose hair, secured it with a blue lotus Taoist crown, picked up my horsetail whisk, and headed out the door.

Demons' aura. A sky-high demonic presence.

The setting sun was like blood, with white bones hanging from withered branches, and ghostly flames mingling with cooking smoke.

The mortals had long since shut their doors tightly, afraid to speak carelessly. In the distant mountains, unknown creatures were making sharp, piercing cries.

After hiding away on the mountain for so long, I've almost forgotten that the outside world is actually like this purgatory.

MC: I really miss the old Qixi festivals... That was the true human scene.

I murmured in contemplation as I began to search for Shaw's presence.

The flower scent was wrapped in a heavy stench of blood, making it appear both gaudy and acrid.

MC: Shaw?

Soon, I caught the faint scent of familiar Tumi flowers near the abandoned cemetery in the southeast.

?.?: For every person you've harmed, I'll cut off one of your claws. It's actually a favor to you. ?.?: ...Regardless of whether you've done evil during this time, I find you displeasing now, so I want to eliminate you. Is that not allowed? ?.?: Want to beg for mercy now? It’s no use.

I couldn't make out what the demon was shouting, but Shaw's voice came through clearly from the graveyard, each sentence ending with a distinct note of pleasure.

In the next moment, a scream pierced the air, and the stench of blood grew even stronger.

My heart sank and I hurried over.

Boom— —

Thunder rumbled ominously, and flashes of lightning crisscrossed the sky. In the intermittent light, a tall, slender figure stood firmly in the center.

Around him are the remains of monsters and demons, and the young man stands amidst a sea of blood. At this moment, he does not seem like a righteous defender of justice, but more like…

Bloodthirsty demon.

...Shaw's cultivation has already reached its peak.

I watched the scene before me with my heart racing, almost stirring up some repressed impulse.

Shaw's God-striking Whip was swinging continuously in his hand, while a demon beast dodged left and right. In the end, it was struck by a bolt of lightning and was obliterated with a scream.

Shaw: I said it was useless, so why bother running?

Shaw's brows and eyes were full of exuberance, with a smile of extreme pleasure at the corner of his mouth, as he reveled in the brutal scene.

Shaw: I'm in a very bad mood this month. I can only say that you are unlucky and happened to meet me.

As he spoke, he took out the talisman and chanted the incantation.

[He recites an incantation here which is kinda hard to translate]

——He wants to summon the Five Gods of Thunder?! Just to annihilate these monsters?!

Without a moment's hesitation, I waved my whisk and immediately sealed the talisman he was about to ignite.

It was only then that he noticed my presence. In an instant, Shaw's gaze was more dazzling than lightning, nearly blinding me.

Shaw: .......You are finally willing to come. MC: ….Shaw!

I stretched out my hand towards him and spoke hastily.

MC: You can't kill anymore now, otherwise you will become a demon! MC: Come with me, I'll help you stabilize your Taoist mind!

Shaw stared at me intently, and after a while, he finally broke into a smile.

Shaw: Good.

Before he finished speaking, he fell forward.

I quickly teleported over to support him. Even through the layer of clothing, I could feel how intensely hot his body was.

MC: ….It can’t be delayed any longer.

I no longer hesitated and took Shaw to a broken house near the mass grave and began to set up formations for him.

Shaw [in pain]: Mm—

In the instant the light flared, a look of pain immediately appeared on Shaw's face.

MC: Is it difficult? Just bear with it a little longer…

Shaw [breathing heavily]: Not uncomfortable.

Shaw interrupted my words, breathing heavily.

Shaw [hesitantly]: I thought...I thought you didn't want to see me anymore

My breath caught, and I instinctively wanted to respond to the unspoken feelings before me.

However, Shaw's vibrant, living form and the red cinnabar symbols that had fallen around him reminded me of my true purpose for coming here.

MC: How could this be?

Another yellow talisman fell, and the dense array of runes bound Shaw, leaving him unable to move.

My fingers gently caressed his heaving chest and came to rest on his heart.

MC: You are my most precious furnace, why don’t I come to see you?

The light from the talisman illuminated the dim old house and also lit up my path.

A black crane perches on the hem of my skirt, its wings poised to fly.

—

[Section 4]

After Shaw heard what I said, a smile appeared on his lips.

Shaw [In a light voice + breathing heavily x1]: Fairy Xuanhe, you finally don’t want to pretend anymore? MC: The goal has already been achieved; why pretend?

I casually replied to him while drawing symbols, as if we were in my courtyard rather than this run-down house.

MC: I was surprised. When did you know about it? Shaw [x2]: Known it from the beginning.

My fingers paused. He raised his eyebrows at me triumphantly.

Shaw [x3]: Back then, Fairy Xuanhe, burdened with too much bloodshed, was hunted down by ten righteous paths and fell into these mountains. Shaw [x4]: After just three to five years, a Taoist priestess named MC suddenly appeared in the mountains. Shaw [x5]: With profound skills and a kind heart, they set up great formations to protect the safety and security of the people around them. Shaw [x6]: It's really... admirable.

Shaw’s breathing was rapid. Although he was clearly talking about me, his tone was so mocking, as if he were recounting someone else’s story. I felt a surge of irritation rise from the bottom of my heart and couldn't help but retort.

MC: So, you were sent by those idiots to test me?

Shaw [coldly]: Do they even deserve it?

Shaw sneered and raised his chin.

Shaw [whispers]: I just wanted to see you myself.

His gaze slowly moved from my brows, down to my nose, to my lips, to my throat... Finally, as if discovering something, it settled on my heart.

Shaw: .....No wonder you have been staying in that yard and refused to come out. MC: I didn’t refuse to come out. Shaw: In fact, you sealed yourself in that courtyard. MC: I didn't… Shaw: The demonic aura has long invaded your heart and mind; you are the one who has fallen into darkness. MC: I'm just about to become a demon!

I blurted out, my anger surging suddenly. I reached out forcefully, intending to strangle the man in front of me who was spouting nonsense.

However, as soon as my fingertips touched the blood vessels on his neck, they were immediately burned and recoiled.

The burning pain brought me back to clarity. I squeezed my eyes shut, trying to calm my emotions.

MC: Shaw, I’m just... about to fall into darkness. MC: And with you as the furnace here, I can definitely dispel all the demonic aura.

Shaw's throat moved slightly as if he had finally realized something.

Shaw [surprised]: You want to practice dual cultivation with me...? MC: What else?

I chuckled and slowly stretched out my arms to hug Shaw from behind.

The intense yang energy filled Shaw’s robust body, like a flame that would never extinguish.

The robe was exceptionally loose after the battle, but with a casual flick, it fell into place.

My fingers measured every inch of his hot skin, and the wonderful touch made me addicted.

MC: Life is so joyful in the mortal world; I have no intention of falling into darkness. MC: Over the years, I have devoted myself to research and finally invented a method of harmonizing yin and yang.

Shaw clearly remembered the books he had borrowed. He raised an eyebrow and made an effort to turn his head to look at me.

Shaw: Because demonic energy is extremely yin, you're planning to find an extremely yang 'container' to balance it out. MC: That's right.

I turned my fingers and lifted Shaw's chin with a whisk.

This is the first time I've seen my... cauldron up close.

From this angle, I noticed his eyelashes were so long, his nose bridge so straight, and there was a thin layer of sweat at the corners of his brows, fine and dense.

MC: Shaw, you came to me of your own accord. MC: It is you who want to practice my techniques.

I silently executed the spell and infused the final incantation into Shaw’s dantian.

The fragrance of tea flowers instantly filled every corner of the room.

I know it's ripe.

Shaw, with no strength to resist, was pressed to the ground by me.

On the Qixi festival, the day of extreme yin, with the body of extreme yang, everything was perfect.

My breathing was even faster than Shaw's. The demonic energy that had been suppressed for a long time was no longer in shackles of the seal. It was jolting left and right in my body and was in desperate need of an outlet.

MC: I…

I was like a moth endlessly circling, instinctively drawn to an untouchable blaze, yet fleeing in panic just a second before being consumed by the flames.

For a moment, I even felt that the decision to practice dual cultivation was extremely stupid.

Because it was too hot and painful.

I bit my lower lip and gripped Shaw's shoulders almost with hatred, my nails drawing faint blood marks on his skin.

——Why? Why should I go through this?

As the Xuanhe Fairy, I have always wanted to live according to my true nature and have never harmed a mortal.

Before the demonic energy entered my body, I was said to be weird, rebellious, and unreasonable; after the demonic energy entered my body, I was said to be cruel and suspected of evil intentions.

These fools have also pinned some baseless charges on me and summoned ten righteous factions to kill me...

Why should I endure this!

Unconsciously, blood began to seep into my vision, and the smell of blood rising in my throat gradually overpowered the floral scent, filling my nostrils.

Shaw: MC, MC….! MC: What?

Shaw called my name several times before I woke up from my daze and looked at him blankly.

He was sweating all over, gritting his teeth, and obviously felt uncomfortable, but his golden eyes were still bright, reflecting only my figure.

Even though I was in a mess and my blue lotus Taoist crown was crooked.

Shaw [HIS HOARSE VOICE SOUNDED SO ASKFSGH x1]: MC, give me your breath. MC: ....Transfer Qi?

My mind was so dizzy that I didn't even understand what these two words meant. Shaw suppressed his breath and sneered.

Shaw [x2]: If you want to practice dual cultivation, of course you have to transfer your Qi.

Oh, indeed, the breath could also settle into the lower abdomen. I thought groggily as I leaned closer to Shaw's lips.

In the instant our breaths intertwined, I was pulled into a vortex named Shaw. 

His tongue entwined with mine, then released, only to forcefully invade again, exploring every corner of my mouth, sending shivers down my spine. 

This wasn't me giving him air at all; it was clearly... him taking it from me.

The sound of the rubbing of clothes mixed with my heartbeat, infinitely amplified in my ears, and the burning sensation that was originally painful to me gradually became less unbearable.

At this moment, it seems that the vigorous yang energy and the deep yin energy have finally found a point of resonance, beginning to tentatively merge.

My vision kept wavering, and the scene before me became a kaleidoscope of colors. The painful memories of the past gradually receded like a retreating tide.

By accident, my mind suddenly recalled a small incident when the evil energy had not poured into China and everything was still too peaceful.

That day seemed to be the Qixi festival. I was wandering in the market and met a young man.

The young man said he had someone he loved and asked me if I had any spells that could help him.

What happened next? Did I help him…?

Shaw [annoyed]: You're distracted. MC: I didn't…

All my words were swallowed up by him, and Shaw didn't want to listen to me at all.

He inexplicably began to refuse to cooperate, causing the yin and yang energy that had already been harmonized to change suddenly. I couldn't help but want to hide, but my waist was firmly held by him.

MC: This… This is not right…

I clutched the nearly shapeless talisman papers tightly and spoke intermittently.

MC [blushing]: It should be me… MC [blushing]: It should be me taking your original yang energy; this is the only solution. Otherwise, I...!

I whimpered briefly, the stimulation was too strong and I had nowhere to escape, I could only scream like a rogue.

MC [blushing]: You are my furnace, you must be willing to help me achieve success!

Shaw [breathing heavily + that low seductive voice of his x1]: Who says I'm not willing?

Hot sweat and Shaw's voice both fell into my ears, as he chuckled softly.

Shaw [x2]: I realized... that although you are a talented demon practitioner, you’re also quite foolish. Shaw [x3]: Why do you think I've been practicing your techniques all along?

It's too hot. My mind can no longer understand his words; I just shake my head, trying to escape, but Shaw won't let me.

His lips repeatedly kissed my earlobe, whispering in the closest proximity.

Shaw [x4]: As I said, I will do my best and risk everything I have for the person I like.

Every time Shaw said a word, I felt the violent demonic energy in my body fade a little—

He didn’t have his original yang energy taken by me; instead, he used his yang energy to completely eliminate the demonic energy.

MC: You... you changed my technique? Were you deceiving me?!

Shaw [x6]: Is that not acceptable? Shaw [x7]: Who told you to lie to me back then?

Shaw lifted me up forcefully as if to punish me, and I fell into his tender kisses.

Shaw [x8]: On that Qixi Festival, I told you I liked you and asked if there was a spell to make you like me too. How did you respond? MC: What?

Was that boy Shaw?

My memory doesn’t quite match up with this. Could it be that the years of demonic energy have damaged my mind?

I was speechless and couldn't explain anything. Shaw’s chest rumbled with laughter as he smiled.

Shaw [x9]: Forget it if you don’t remember. Anyway, I already got what I wanted.

After all, I was pulled into the whirlpool by him again.

In the midst of the chaos, I almost had the illusion that Shaw had risked even more than I had imagined.

No, it's not an illusion.

MC: Shaw. 

I reached out my hand and brushed away Shaw's messy hair, wanting to look into his eyes again.

—

📿 Call 1

📿 Call 2

[laxmiree]

[CN] MLQC Lucien’s Blooming Amidst Turbulent Desires MQ translation

⚠️ SPOILER ALERT!! ⚠️

This post contains a detailed spoiler for a MQ that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~

[Warning]: The content of this MQ is pretty explicit and may not be suitable for individuals under the age of 17 (CN server). It is recommended that those who do not meet this age requirement refrain from proceeding beyond this point.

This MQ accompany 🔞 High Temperature ASMR.

As Lucien speaks, he raises his hand under my gaze and meticulously unbuttons the topmost button.

In the faint and elusive light and shadow, his slender neck and collarbone gradually reveal themselves, following the movements of his fingertips and the downward opening of his collar.

Lucien, as if completely unaware, raises his hand and casually winds the work badge around his wrist, tightening it leisurely.

“As you can see, I can't move freely right now.”

‘‘So, would you say I'm cooperative enough like this?”

[Note: This time I haven’t had time to subtitle due to acads and research stuff. I’ll do subtitle later when I have time, for now I’ll just post the transcript to quench ppl curiousity lol. If you want to follow along the voice acting you can follow here]

[Exclusive Radio- Longing for Returning Home]

Conference Participant: Professor Lucien... Professor Lucien, please stay!

Lucien: Hm? Is there something you need from me?

Conference Participant: Just heard from other professors, did you book the earliest flight back home on the day the conference ends?

Lucien: Yes, that's correct. Is there anything else related to the conference that I need to be involved in afterward?

Conference Participant: No, it's just that I feel it's a pity for you to leave in such a hurry.

Conference Participant: Granada can be considered a famous tourist destination. It's a rare opportunity to come here, so why not appreciate the scenery?

Conference Participant: Why don't you join other professors and explore the local area for a few more days? I'd be happy to extend my hospitality to you as a host.

Lucien: Thank you for your kind intentions. It's just that due to our respective business travel arrangements, my girlfriend and I haven't seen each other for a long time.

Lucien: When we were talking just now, we discussed our itineraries. She will be returning to our home country a few days before me. By the time the conference is over, she should be waiting for me at home.

Lucien: Being by her side is more relaxing for me than traveling around.

Conference Participant: Girlfriend? Oh, is it the person who messaged you during dinner today?

Conference Participant: Haha, no wonder you looked at your phone in a good mood and even took photos of the churros on the table from different angles.

Conference Participant: So, you were taking those pictures for her, huh?

Lucien: (chuckles) You caught me… Um, she's curious about the snack.

Lucien: It's a pity that I can't bring a portion back for her to taste.

Conference Participant: Indeed, freshly fried items like that don't hold up well during long-distance transportation. However, there are other local souvenirs you can bring back from the area.

Conference Participant: I remember some shops are selling hand-painted tea sets and unique patterned textiles... They are very popular among girls.

Lucien: (in an interested tone) Is that so…

Lucien: Can you send me the address of the shops you just mentioned?

Lucien: If I have some free time during the conference in the next few days, I'd like to go and take a look.

Conference Participant: No problem, I will send it to you shortly.

Conference Participant: Ah, originally I was planning to be the spokesperson for a few other professors, and we were all going to travel together for a few days.

Conference Participant: Seeing you like this, I won't continue to persuade you anymore.

Lucien: Indeed, when the heart longs to return*, it's hard to stay for long.

(T/N: "归心似箭" is an idiom that literally translates to "the heart returns like an arrow." It is used to describe the strong longing and eagerness to return home or to a familiar place. It expresses his sentiment of wanting to go back to her, his 'home' where he truly belongs and feels comfortable 🥺)

Lucien: When we have the opportunity in the future, I will come back to Granada with her and explore the scenery and cuisine here.

[Part 1]

The taxi speeds along the cobblestone streets of Granada, passing through the dappled light and shadow beneath the palm leaves.

Moving forward, the outline of a hotel in the distance gradually becomes clear. The colored mosaic wall reflects a bright luster in the sunlight.

I compare it with the photo on my phone and feel pleasantly surprised. I give a thumbs-up to the driver beside me.

MC: You're amazing! That's the hotel!

The driver raises his eyebrows in satisfaction, smoothly turning the steering wheel. I switch back to the chat interface, suppressing my excitement as I look at the message just sent by Lucien.

Lucien's message: "If I remember correctly, you are finishing work and returning from Finland today, right?"

MC's reply: "Yes, I'm currently checking in for the flight with my colleagues. How about you? How much longer until you return home?"

Lucien's message: "Very soon. The conference has entered its final stage, and it will end within the next two or three days."

MC's reply: "Sigh, it's been almost a month since we last saw each other. Even two or three days feel so long…"

I switch to a music app and deliberately share a sad love song with a mournful melody.

I imagine him in front of the screen, raising his eyebrows with a slightly helpless expression, and I hold back a laugh as I step out of the taxi.

As I walk, my fingertips slide across the screen, searching for the room number he had told me during our previous conversation. Suddenly, a notification for a new message pops up.

Lucien's message: "Mm, I also really want to see you."

My heart suddenly becomes soft. As soon as the elevator door slides open, I eagerly walk towards the corridor and stop in front of the door of room 1609.

I suppress my quickening heartbeat and knock on the door, then speak in a rough and hoarse voice.

MC: Good afternoon sir, room service.

When he opens the door and sees me, Lucien should briefly be taken aback, then call out my name and hug me, right?

As if in response to this speculation, the next second, the familiar voice slowly but steadily emerges from the room.

Lucien: The door is open. Come in please.

MC: (suprised)….

While this makes it more convenient, how can this person have no sense of caution? I must remind him properly later.

With these thoughts in mind, I gently lift the suitcase and hold my breath as I push open the heavy room door.

The bright and spacious suite exudes tranquility, and the gauze curtains gently sway by the floor-to-ceiling window. I quickly scan the room but don't see the familiar figure I've been yearning for day and night.

I place the suitcase against the wall and am about to walk towards the inner area when suddenly, I hear a familiar voice from behind me.

Lucien: I've been waiting for you for a long time.

With his words, warm arms envelop me. The familiar scent embraces me from behind, instantly wrapping me in a hug.

I let out a surprised gasp and felt the softness of his hair brushing against my neck, causing a slight itching sensation.

In his usually calm voice, now there's an unmistakable sense of joy that can't be ignored.

Lucien: (playfully) So, this hotel even has such thoughtful room service, huh?

[Part 2]

Upon hearing his voice, my heart seemed to be filled with light and joyful happiness all of a sudden.

I smile and release the handle of the suitcase, swiftly turning around and throwing myself into this long-lost embrace.

The hand around my waist tightens imperceptibly. Lucien's nose gently nestles itself in my hair, and he lets a barely audible sigh.

The shadows of the trees sway in the tranquil room. Neither of us speaks as if we want to make up for the time apart over the past month through this wholehearted embrace.

After a moment, I finally raise my head and look into his slightly brightened eyes.

MC: I had planned to give you a surprise! How did you guess that it was me who came?

Lucien tilts his head slightly, indicating for me to look at the Bluetooth earphones in his ear.

Lucien: I was just about to play the song you sent me and carefully "appreciate" it, but unexpectedly, it automatically connected to another device.

Lucien: So, I guessed you must be nearby.

MC: Damn it, I can't believe I was caught at the last moment because of such a small detail.

(T/N: "功亏一篑" is an idiom that means to fail at the last moment due to a minor mistake or oversight. It describes a situation where one's efforts fall short of success, often due to a small oversight or mistake, after putting in a lot of effort up until that point.)

I playfully raise my hand in a mock expression of displeasure, and Lucien cooperatively lowers his head, his slender eyebrows slightly curved.

Lucien: But I feel that no matter how it happens, your presence itself is already enough of a surprise.

MC: (laughs) Professor Lucien, you're getting better and better at coaxing me aren’t you?

As I say this, I reach out and ruffle his hair. Lucien doesn't get up; instead, he leans closer and gazes at my cheek.

Lucien: Weren't you supposed to return to our home country with the team today? How come you came to Granada on your own?

MC: You know the answer already... What do you think?

I let out a soft hum and coquettishly poke Lucien's arm.

MC: I had to take a connecting flight from Finland because there were no direct flights. After landing, I took a long taxi ride to find this hotel.

MC: I must say, it's really difficult to meet Professor Lucien in person.

Lucien holds my hand and nods earnestly.

Lucien: Mm, it is indeed very challenging. (playfully faking a sigh) What should I do, how to reward this hardworking Miss Producer who traveled from afar?

I look around and point to the soft-looking sofa by the window.

MC: Then, I want to ask the Great Professor to accompany me to lie down for a while. My waist is sore after traveling for such a long time-!

Before I can even exclaim in surprise, Lucien swiftly picks me up in his arms. The next second, we both sink into the sofa bathed in the scent of sunlight.

I laugh and sit up, using one hand to support myself against his chest.

MC: (laughs happily) You're pulling a sneak attack!

Lucien: (laughs softly) What sneak attack, I've only learned a thing or two from Teacher MC.

As Lucien speaks, he tucks a strand of my hair behind my ear, and I take the opportunity to intertwine my fingers with his. I gaze at the person beneath me, lost in my own thoughts.

Even though we video call every few days, being this close and gazing at each other, I can still sense some subtle changes.

His cheeks seem a little thinner; I wonder if it's due to not liking the food or being too busy to eat properly.

His hair has grown longer, now covering his eyebrows when lying down like this. Under his eyes... there seems to be a faint shadow of dark circles.

I can't help but put down my smile, and my hand gently brushes against the area under his eyes.

MC: (displeased) You even have dark circles... Didn't you say the conference was entering its final stage? Why aren't you resting properly?

Lucien: It was only the introduction of new topics that had come to an end, and the information left over from the previous meeting needed to be summarised.

Lucien: We still need to make good use of the time before the wrap-up.

MC: So do you still have work scheduled for today?

Lucien: Um, there is still much experimental data to compare. After summarizing the results, I must submit the analysis report to the organizers before ten o'clock.

MC: Is that so? I had hoped to hug you a little longer... Sigh, I guess I'll have to watch work take you away again.

I glance at the remaining time, reluctantly about to get up, but Lucien shows no intention of letting me go.

The hand around my waist tightens a little more, making me bend my elbow and get even closer to him.

As soon as I get closer, his warm lips follow, gently and affectionately kissing from the sensitive curve of my ear to my cheek.

Unable to resist the tickling sensation, I laugh and tilt my head slightly, trying to evade. The next second, Lucien firmly holds my jaw with a little dissatisfied expression.

Lucien: (gasps and whispers hoarsely) MC, don't hide…

With a hoarse voice near my ear, his cool and slender fingers caress my neck, slowly trailing upwards with an irresistible hint.

Wet and deep kisses accompany his movements, falling on my body like drizzle.

I clench the corner of his clothes tightly, unconsciously tilting my head back, feeling the sunlight reflected off the glass flash before my eyes.

I close my eyes, and it seems like my mind is also becoming hazy in this intense heat.

It isn't until the curtain hanging above us brushes against my face that I finally come to my senses. I take a breath and push Lucien's shoulder as if waking him up.

MC: W-Wait a moment.

Lucien: (breathless, in a hoarse and somewhat dazed voice) …Huh?

Lucien's dark eyes are filled with turbulent depth, and his hair is slightly damp. The actions of his hands don't stop; as if he is about to lean down again the next second.

I try to push his shoulder harder, my breath slightly unsteady as I speak.

MC: Didn't you just say that there is still a lot of data to organize and summarize?

MC: ...Then, now... shouldn't we…?

Lucien: (still trying to steady his breath) Mm.

Lucien responds vaguely, his lips still lingering on the side of my neck.

Lucien: (whispers very lowly in a clingy tone) But right now... I can't bear to let you go.

The intimate bewitchment leaves me feeling dizzy. I try to hold on to what little rationality I have left and tilt my head up to peck his nose.

MC: If Professor Lucien is going to be this unreasonable, I seriously need to consider whether I should continue creating these "surprises" in the future.

Lucien tightens his lips, a hint of leniency and resignation flashing across his face. I button up my disheveled collar, smiling as I stand up from the sofa and nuzzle against his neck.

MC: (smiles) We still have a few more days to spend together, there's no need to rush…

MC: But I'll be here working with you~ After you're done with your busy work, we can go out and have a delicious meal!

I say as I walk to the luggage. After a moment, the sound of the sofa rubbing against the floor finally emerges.

Only then do I sit next to him, gently holding my notebook. I casually place a pillow behind my back and begin browsing through my work notes from the past few days.

Perhaps it's because I'm by his side, I feel like I'm back at home, and without realizing it, I become more relaxed and at ease.

After flipping another page, I lazily adjusted to a more comfortable position, and one of my feet habitually rested on his leg.

The room falls silent for a moment, with only occasional faint sounds of paper rustling. After a while, Lucien suddenly speaks my name in a low voice.

Lucien: MC.

I respond absentmindedly, my eyes still fixed on the screen. The voice by my ear pauses briefly, seemingly carrying a hint of helplessness.

Lucien: Do you want to go inside and wait for me?

MC: Hey, did I disturb you? But I haven't even made much noise.

I don't understand, so I lift my head from the screen and notice Lucien's eyes flickering unusually. Suddenly, I grasp what's happening.

A mischievous idea springs up. I lift my heels and move along the long legs hugged by his trousers.

MC: You haven't said the reason why you suddenly 'asked me to leave' yet.

Through the firm fabric, the legs beneath my tiptoes seem to tense for a moment. I persistently speak up, refusing to relent.

MC: Did I really 'disturb you? Professor Lucien, could it be that you can't even resist this level of 'temptation'?

MC: Oh, this won't do~ When doing research, you must stay focused. How can you let yourself get distracted by a little bee that tests your self-control?

With those words, my tiptoes press on his leg, watching as Lucien bites his lip, and I can't help but curl up the corners of my mouth.

Having witnessed his usual ease, the sight of him struggling to restrain himself now makes me tempted to tease him further... Unfortunately, it's not the right moment.

However, being able to see him so openly longing is enough to satisfy me.

I close my notes, intending to leave as soon as I can, and am about to do so when he suddenly grabs my ankle.

Lucien's voice seems a little hoarse, and his fingertips are caressing gently.

Lucien: (whispers hoarsely) My teacher's "lesson" is indeed something.

Lucien: (x2) In terms of concentration, I indeed still have much to learn.

Lucien: (x3!!) So, (chuckle) can MC teach me how to do it?

His voice seems to carry a certain bewitchment. My breath catches for a moment, but I quickly snap out of it.

He's setting another trap, waiting for me to step into it willingly.

I let out a light snort in my heart. I pretend to take the bait and place my hand on his face.

MC: Of course, I can. However, I believe in tailoring my teaching to the individual, so I need to have a basic understanding of the student's situation first.

MC: Tell me, how far can you restrain yourself when facing my advances? And what would your reactions be at different levels of the advances?

Lucien holds my hand on his cheek, and lightly rubs against it, as if teasingly.

Lucien: This is a bit challenging for me.

Lucien: (chuckle) After all, when faced with your 'invitation', I seem to have never tried to resist.

I let out a long "oh," my voice softening a bit.

MC: They say learning requires understanding things thoroughly. Since there are things I don't understand, I have to figure them out.

Lucien: So, how does Teacher MC want to conduct this research?

I lock eyes with Lucien for a moment, then suddenly withdraw my fingertips from his hand, leaning forward to lightly peck his lips.

Before he can react, I quickly get up from the sofa and take two steps back, smiling mischievously as I speak.

MC: How about we conduct a little experiment~ Let me see how self-controlled Professor Lucien can be when he gets serious.

MC: I will adjust the variables to obtain accurate results. After all, as your special assistant, I've also accumulated a lot of experience and knowledge.

MC: Then, the experiment of an intern professor officially begins now. I kindly request this gentleman to cooperate accordingly.

MC: As for this special report, I will definitely record it diligently~

[Part 2-Intertwined Memory]

=Flashback, Narrator POV=

In the afternoon sunlight, there's a hazy and drowsy warmth floating around.

The cicadas are buzzing loudly, but Lucien seems completely unaware as he browses through the continuous stream of data. Other than the movements of his fingertips while flipping through the materials, he remains almost motionless at the desk.

Until the sound of a text message, like a small pebble, broke the frozen silence.

MC: "Yes, I'm currently checking in for the flight with my colleagues. How about you? How much longer until you return home?"

Looking at the message from the girl, Lucien's expression softened subconsciously. Thinking about the schedule that still had two or three more days to go, he lets out a light sigh.

When he realizes his actions just now, he pauses for a moment.

...It's strange. Whether for himself or the girl, business trips have become routine. He shouldn't feel this kind of helplessness.

Being separated from her just feels like something he can't get used to, no matter what.

After pondering for a moment, he replies in a composed tone, detailing the upcoming work arrangements.

However, he can't help but continue scrolling through the photos the girl had sent during their previous chat, not putting down the phone just yet.

She pointed at the reindeer statue behind her, her eyes shining as she looked at the camera; the photo of her holding up her unappetizing work lunch, making a distressed expression and sticking out her tongue.

The last picture is of the entrance to the Arctic Museum, with a caption that read, "If you were here, I'm sure I could understand more clearly."

Lucien's lips unconsciously raised upwards, and his fingertips gently stroke the phone screen.

During the days they hadn't seen each other, it seemed that the girl's life had experienced many exciting moments.

Even though they chatted every day and occasionally shared interesting experiences through video calls, he still felt it wasn't enough.

Having grown accustomed to the girl's company, this time their parting feels exceptionally long. The fleeting moments shared through digital communication can't fill the missing hole left behind.

Lucien purses his lips and gently places the phone on the table.

Just wait a little longer... When they meet again in a few days, he is determined to embrace her and listen to her happily recount all the moments she didn't have a chance to share.

Ding.

The notification sound rings again. The girl sends a sentimental love song—a melodramatic tune with a cliché title "Golden Song of the Year."

Imagining her acting sorrowful, Lucien can't help but curve his lips and replies with a "Mm, I miss you too."

Afterward, he takes out the Bluetooth earphones from the case, intending to listen to her spontaneous sharing. As his gaze unintentionally sweeps across his phone screen, he suddenly freezes.

...there is no indication of a connection on the screen.

These earphones seem to have automatically paired with another device.

Lucien instinctively holds his breath, carefully listening to the sounds outside the room. Soon, he hears familiar footsteps in the corridor, precisely stopping at the door.

In the next moment, the heavy door is knocked on. Someone deliberately lowers their voice and speaks in a rough manner, "Good Afternoon, sir, room service."

It's her.

His heartbeat seems to quicken involuntarily. Lucien stands up from the desk and walks lightly towards the door.

As he walks, that missing hole seems to be suddenly filled by some intangible presence, gurgling and flowing gently.

The warm breeze in Granada lifts a soft corner of the curtain, and the vibrant colors of summer flood into the room.

Lucien: The door is open. Come in please.

Lucien heard himself speak.

=Flashback and Narrator POV END=

[Part 3]

I walk quickly to the inner room, hook the door handle with my hand, and slowly close the door, blocking the view behind me.

I hold my breath and listen carefully through the gap in the door. After a moment of silence, the sound of paper flipping resumes. It seems that Lucien has started working again.

I comfortably lie down on the lounge chair and continue to look at my notes. Occasionally, I raise my head to glance in the direction of the balcony outside.

The soft curtains gently sway with the breeze, concealing the figure in the living room from my view.

Is Lucien currently working diligently? If I don't do anything, how long will it take for him to knock on this door?

I retract my gaze and ponder with interest. In the warm afternoon breeze, I lazily flip to the next page of the data.

As the sunlight slowly moves to the west, the steaming heat gradually dissipates. When I raise my head again, I realize that the sky has darkened.

*sexy bgm playing*

I walk to the balcony and notice that the lights are on in the living room, casting a shadow of Lucien on the gauze curtain. I yawn and glance at my phone.

The afternoon has passed since the announcement of the experiment, yet there hasn't been a knock on the door. I haven't even received a message from Lucien.

MC: Huh? When you get serious, you actually have quite a strong willpower.

I squinted my eyes as I looked at the shadow cast on the gauze curtain. It seems that it's time to introduce some "bait" as the experiment's variable.

After contemplating for a moment, I unhurriedly send him a message.

MC's message: "Is the work still going smoothly~"

I spin a pen around my fingers, and soon enough, my phone receives a reply.

Lucien's reply: "Mm, I've already read most of it."

MC's message: "So, Professor Lucien is quite efficient when I'm not around, huh."

MC's message: "Speaking of which, would sending text messages disturb you?"

On the other end of the screen, Lucien seems to have pondered seriously for a moment before replying.

Lucien's reply: "If only seeing the text, it seems to be manageable."

Oh~ that means there might be a little ripple in his heart, but not so much. Come to think of it, we do indeed communicate more frequently through voice calls.

If I were to use 'voice' to entice him, what would his reaction be?

MC's message: "I'll be relieved then~ However, it's almost 9 o'clock now. How much longer will it be until you can rest with me?"

The name in the chat box is replaced by "Typing..." A moment later, a new message alert sounds again.

Lucien's reply: "It will take some more time to process the remaining data. You can go ahead and rest."

MC's message: "But I'm having trouble falling asleep Q.Q How about letting me listen to the sound of you working? It can serve as a soothing white noise to help me sleep."

After a moment, Lucien's voice dialed in, his calm voice is accompanied by the sound of pages flipping.

Lucien: (in a calm yet a bit wronged tone) I thought a certain Miss Professor who's immersed in the experiment wouldn't come to see me today.

MC: Haha, actually, I was planning to just sleep like that. But…

MC: Thinking that you're so close to me, I feel a little unwilling to give in to sleep.

Lucien's breathing seems to have slowed down a bit, but he still speaks calmly and unhurriedly.

Lucien: Alright, rest assured and take your time. We don't have to rush things, after all, we still have several days to spend together, don't we?

...This person has quite a good memory.

(lol he 'jabs' her back with the same sentence that she said earlier 😂)

I silently curl the corners of my lips and casually respond as if nothing happened.

MC: Indeed, that makes sense. Oh well, don't mind me anymore, just focus on your work~

Lucien responds with a sound but doesn't say anything further. On the other end of the phone, the sound of flipping pages resumes.

The rustling sound mixed with faint breathing noise echoes in my ears, like the evening breeze brushing through the drooping branches. I lift my fingertips, tracing the shadow cast on the window.

MC: Lucien, actually I've been thinking about how to spend this evening with you since several days ago.

Lucien: Hmm? (chuckles, and then whispers seductively) What have you imagined?

I chuckle softly and shift to a more comfortable position, leaning against the railing.

MC: ...Many things. Um, so many things.

MC: I heard this place is famous for its night views, and many hotels have private outdoor baths.

MC: Embracing each other under the cover of night, watching the flickering lights on the water's surface... It should be a very cozy and romantic experience.

MC: Or maybe like our previous trip, getting close under the moonlight, sharing a glass of red wine, and then…

I let out a soft sigh, as if recalling the lingering and intoxicating kisses from that night.

The sound of flipping pages on the other end of the phone stopped at some point. I turn my head with interest and speak softly.

MC: Do you really have to work on your report until so late tonight?

MC: After being apart for so long... I really miss you.

The shadow cast on the gauze curtain seems to pause for a moment, and an unspoken understanding silently flows between us by our ears.

When he speaks again, Lucien's tone is subtly deeper than before.

Lucien: (his voice noticeably deeper and a bit hoarse) This lady has quite a gift for teasing people, even more so than I had imagined.

MC: (pretending to be dumb)...Why suddenly bring that up? I just wanted to chat with you, that's all.

Lucien: (slowly whispers) Is that so? It seems like I misunderstood then.

Lucien: (whispers with even lower and more hoarse voice) I originally thought this was an observational experiment with escalating variables.

I lazily raise my tone at the end of my sentence.

MC: Can't it be both? While I do want to conduct the experiment, I also want to tell you the truth.

MC: Don't you have anything to tell me right now?

The shadow on the gauze curtain gently sways with the breeze, and Lucien seems to chuckle softly.

Lucien: (chuckles softly) For example?

MC: For example... "Miss Professor, I want to terminate this experiment early because I miss you very much too."

MC: However, I only accept applications submitted in person.

I hang up the phone before Lucien can say anything else, feeling intrigued as I gaze in the direction outside.

Will this door be knocked on tonight?

[Part 4]

The warm morning light streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the balcony, drenching the room with harmonious light and shadow.

I sit in front of the dressing table, lost in thought as I tidy my clothes and glance at the door that remains unknocked. I purse my lips slightly.

I pick up the notebook and write the word "physical contact" next to "sound".

Dealing with this cunning person, it seems like it's time to further upgrade the variables.

If I "tempt" him a little today, he'll probably cross that boundary, won't he? After all, yesterday he seemed reluctant to let me go on the sofa.

As I'm reminiscing about the unfinished 'embrace', I suddenly hear a knock on the door behind me, and the door is gently pushed open.

Lucien leans against the door, smiling as he meets my gaze through the mirror. There seems to be nothing unusual in his expression.

Lucien: Breakfast has arrived, do you want to eat together?

MC: Coming right up!

I take three quick steps and grab the hem of his clothes, leading him toward the outer room while teasing him as I speak.

MC: Let me guess, it's not black coffee with bread again, is it?

Lucien: Of course not. I had the hotel prepare some local churros for us. I remember that you mentioned being curious about its taste in our previous conservation.

Lucien then speaks as his gaze falls on my ear.

Lucien: (chuckle) Your earring seems to be slightly askew.

I blink belatedly. I'm about to raise my hand to adjust it when suddenly I think of something and naturally glance at Lucien.

MC: But I can't see the angle at which the earring is askew... Could you please help me adjust it, Professor Lucien?

I step forward and see Lucien nods as he bends down toward me.

Lucien: Mm, I'd be happy to help.

The warmth of his fingertips reaches my earlobe as the slightly cool earring rotates in my ear piercing. I tilt my head slightly and hear a hint of helplessness in his voice.

Lucien: The clasp design is quite intricate, so don't move around too much for now.

MC: It's just a little disturbance, it should be fine, right?

I smile and lean closer to him, almost feeling the warmth of his breath brushing against my face. The hand near my ear seems to pause for a moment.

MC: Why don't you continue?

The temperature in the air quietly rises amidst the tranquility, his figure silhouetted against the morning light, enveloping me within.

My ear is gently caressed as if by an elusive touch. I gaze into Lucien's deepening eyes, anticipating the kiss that may descend at any moment.

But in the next second, Lucien loosens his fingertips.

Lucien: Hmm, it's all adjusted now.

Amidst my astonished gaze, Lucien straightens up and calmly walks to the dining table. It's as if that momentary flash of action was just my imagination.

I hide my inner astonishment and sit across from Lucien with a calm expression, but my mind is racing with thoughts.

Strange, why does he seem so nonchalant as if nothing happened…

The long-awaited delicacies seem to have lost their appetizing flavor. I stir the juice absentmindedly, not noticing the fleeting smile that appeared on Lucien's face.

After a while, the person in front of me calmly puts down the fork.

Lucien: Weren't you curious about the taste of churro for a long time? Why does it seem like your interest is lacking now?

Lucien: Did you try it and find that it doesn't suit your taste?

MC: ....Haha, maybe I ate too many snacks on the way yesterday.

Lucien: Have some juice first. There's still some work to do at the seminar, I'll head to the reference room first.

MC: So soon... Take it easy. I'll be waiting for you to come back.

I say it while casually adjusting his tie. It's only when I hear the sound of the door closing that I slowly withdraw my gaze.

The variable has already been upgraded from "voice", but Lucien hasn't shown a more noticeable reaction than last night.

Could it be that this light and fleeting "physical contact" wasn't enough? Or is this person deliberately acting like nothing happened?

As I ponder, I set the cup down and suddenly catch a glimpse of a badge lying in the corner of the dining table. Picking it up, I find it contains Lucien's job title and other information.

MC: ...Conference badge? Did he accidentally drop it?

I quickly stand up, ready to return the badge to the conference venue, but suddenly, I pause, as if realizing something.

Then I turn around and go back to the room, putting on the new long dress I bought.

The hotel's architectural structure is far more complex than I had imagined.

With the guidance of several staff members, I finally navigate through the maze of stairs and find the corner where the reference room is located.

The bright corridor is empty, with no one in sight, and occasionally, I can hear faint footsteps in the distance, but they never come close. I withdraw my gaze and gently push open the door in front of me.

The air seems to be infused with the subtle scent of books. The dark metal chandelier and the light wooden bookshelves work together to create a bright and clean atmosphere.

As expected, there is no one in the reference room at this moment. I tread lightly, passing through the light and shadows cast by the rows of bookshelves until I finally spot Lucien in the corner.

He is dressed in a cold white lab coat, sitting on a chair, his gaze lowered as he flips through something. His slender fingers occasionally brush over the yellowed pages.

The eyes and eyebrows that are usually slightly curved when facing me are now focused and carry a distant coldness that keeps others to remain at a respectful distance.

Perhaps it's because I haven't seen Lucien in work mode for a long time, I couldn't help but stop in my tracks and silently watch him for a moment before finally walking over.

Noticing the sound behind him, Lucien casually raises his eyes to look. He seems somewhat surprised and lets out a soft "Hm?". The expression in his eyes instantly softens.

Lucien: How did you find your way here?

MC: I came to deliver something to a certain careless professor~

I smiled and waved the work badge in my hand, walking briskly to his side while also glancing around the area.

An extensive collection of anatomical diagrams and texts, medical tools, and X-ray films emitting a cold glow... I withdrew my gaze and curiously asked.

MC: Is this conference related to medicine?

Lucien sets the work badge aside and naturally takes my hand in his.

Lucien: Mm, it mainly focuses on the application of neuroscience in rehabilitation medicine.

Lucien: Local scholars have proposed many ideas in the direction of neural circuits. After exchanging our research progress, we are considering jointly publishing new research findings.

MC: Indeed, sparks are more likely to fly when minds collide~ But why is it that only you are here?

Lucien: The locals are accustomed to having a chat at the dining table after finishing their meal. Since mealtime has just passed, it will take some time before they're coming over.

I nod thoughtfully, keenly picking up on a message — which means, no one will come to disturb us right now.

I respond with an "Oh" and curiously open my mouth to speak.

MC: By the way, we haven't really talked much about your research in this area.

MC: Neuroscience and rehabilitative medicine... Does that mean helping patients recover through certain brain activities?

Lucien: The brain and body are naturally coordinated through interactions to maintain dynamic stability in various basic physiological indicators.

Lucien: Many physiological phenomena are influenced by the central nervous system. Similarly, they can also reflect the state of the human brain and even cognition.

Lucien: If you're curious, I can use heart rate as an example to give a simple explanation.

As Lucien speaks, he casually picks up a stethoscope from the medical kit in the corner. I calmly stroke my chest, but suddenly feel nervous.

If Lucien hears my rapidly beating heart right now, he will probably notice that I'm plotting something…

MC: ...Let me do it! It will leave a deeper impression if I do it myself~

I say as I pick up another stethoscope. I notice Lucien raises an eyebrow and his eyes slightly curve.

Lucien: Not only do I have to be MC's teacher, but I also have to play the role of teaching aid?

MC: Talented people should take on more responsibilities, so I'll trouble you a bit~

As if accepting my words, Lucien obediently leans back on the chair, watching me with interest as I put on the stethoscope.

Just as I'm about to place the stethoscope against his chest, he suddenly extends his hand and I stop him.

MC: Please, Mr. Teaching Aid, stay still and don't move around.

Lucien: Don't misunderstand, I just want to minimize any factors that might affect your auscultation.

As Lucien speaks, he raises his hand under my gaze and meticulously unbuttons the topmost button.

The sound of the buttons coming undone is barely audible in the confined space.

Like a small electric current passing from my auditory nerves to my chest, my heartbeat accelerates uncontrollably.

In the faint and elusive light and shadow, his slender neck and collarbone gradually reveal themselves, following the movements of his fingertips and the downward opening of his collar.

The air in the cramped information room carries a sense of warmth and stuffiness, there seems to be a hint of humidity reflected in his eyes. His jet-black bangs stick moistly to his head.

In the silence, a bead of sweat drips down his jaw, landing silently in the shallow valley that rises and falls with his breath, only to be absorbed by the damp fabric.

I exhale.

The electric currents entwined around my heart suddenly transform into a hidden flame. I can almost hear my breath slowing down as I tighten my grip on the stethoscope head.

Lucien, as if completely unaware, raises his hand and casually winds the work badge around his wrist, tightening it leisurely.

His cold white lab coat is disheveled, and the tie that was neatly adjusted when he left is now loosely hanging around his neck.

Yet, he calmly gazes at me, his tone still carrying a meticulousness that makes one want to break through.

Lucien: As you can see, I can't move freely right now.

Lucien: So, would you say I'm cooperative enough like this?

MC: ...It’s enough!!

As if trying to conceal my increasingly rapid heartbeat, I press the stethoscope against his chest, moving it along the gently rising and falling chest.

Immediately, I hear the low and rhythmic sound filling my ears.

Lucien's voice sounds timely.

Lucien: Did you hear anything?

I purse my lips without showing any emotion, trying my best to maintain a calm tone.

MC: Y-your heartbeat seems to be very fast... 81 beats per minute, is that a normal rate?

Lucien: Don't worry. Under the influence of special factors, a resting heart rate can approach around 100 beats per minute.

Lucien: (with his voice noticeably a bit hoarse and low in the end) The load brought on by exercise, changes in temperature, and the control of the autonomic nervous system... all of these can have an impact on the heart rate.

I seem to sense something and meet Lucien's gaze. His eyes look deep, as if a bit darker than usual.

But I feel like I've been scorched by flames, and my gaze involuntarily flickers. My instinct whispers softly in my ear, telling me that the person in front of me is not as calm as he appears to be.

Even though I don't feel thirsty, my throat involuntarily moves. I grip the stethoscope head, which has warmed up with his body temperature, and continue to slowly lower it.

MC: But we haven't left the data room since a while ago, so we can probably rule out the first two factors.

Lucien: Hm, a very keen deduction. What else?

I can hear the vigorous and rhythmic beats in my ears, almost in sync with the rhythm of my heart beating in my chest.

Lucien's lips curve up with a hint of praise, and his voice still carries a trace of unruffled calmness.

I casually take off the stethoscope. My knees press against the surface of the chair between his legs and move closer to him.

(...she gets on the chair👀)

Our breaths intertwine, and I can almost see my own reflection in his eyes.

MC: Your pupils have dilated a bit, and the color of your eyes has deepened.

MC: From the physiological knowledge I know, there could be many possible reasons…

MC: But considering the earlier deduction and the current situation, it seems like there's only one conclusion.

Lucien seems to let out a very soft laugh, and his hands bound by the lanyard move slightly.

Lucien: Speak out.

My fingertips slide into the tightening gap of the lanyard, pressing against his increasingly warm wrist.

MC: Are you... trying to restrain yourself right now?

MC: Or should I say, you really want to do something right now?

The wrist that I'm touching moves, and the strong pulsations under my fingertips seem to be telling me the answer in advance.

A dangerous curve forms at the corner of Lucien's mouth, and his eyes look at me from bottom to top.

Lucien: (whispers hoarsely) If I say yes, what measures do you plan to take?

My fingertips skillfully hook and release the rope binding his wrist.

The sound of the work badge hitting the ground resonates. Amidst Lucien's sudden proximity and his intense gaze, I softly laugh and speak.

MC: This is my answer.

[Part 4-Intertwined Memory]

(T/N: I KNOW y’all want to jump into the fun part but please read this part first so the next part will make more sense-)

=Flashback From Last Night=

The darkness spreads across the skyline of a foreign land, and distant lights begin to twinkle one by one.

The gauze curtain flutters, and it seems like footsteps can be heard on the balcony outside, but it quickly falls back into silence.

I turn my head slightly, only to find that Lucien has quietly brushed aside the gauze curtain and is leaning against the door, looking at me in silence.

In the flowing tranquility, ambiguity grows quietly like creeping vines. I tuck the strands of hair lifted by the night breeze behind my ear and gaze back into his eyes.

MC: At this hour... Professor Lucien, are you planning to submit an application to terminate the experiment early?

Lucien smiles and shakes his head.

Lucien: (chuckles) I'm afraid I'll have to disappoint Miss Professor.

Lucien: I just thought that there are some special circumstances in the experiment, and perhaps we need to discuss them.

I raise an eyebrow and teasingly ask for more details.

MC: Is that so? How come I feel like you deliberately found an excuse to see me?

MC: If you change the experiment process without permission, be careful, I'll consider that as cheating.

Lucien's lips curl up with a hint of slyness, and he takes a step forward.

The warm airflow brushes against his bangs, revealing those deep eyes as dark as the night.

Lucien: It's just a step-by-step progression, from hearing your voice to seeing you in person. Next, MC can continue upgrading from the current level.

Lucien: Or... are the variables you prepared ending here?

Under his smiling gaze, I choke for a moment but casually speak as if nothing happened.

MC: ...Hmph, of course not.

MC: Then do tell me, what are the circumstances you want to discuss with me?

Lucien nods and speaks seriously.

Lucien: In actual scientific research, there are several possibilities that may lead to the experiment being terminated prematurely, aside from the participants voluntarily withdrawing their applications.

MC: Hmm, I haven't heard you mention this before... For example?

Lucien: Insufficient rigor in the process, lack of experimental funding, missing key personnel... Of course, our experiment won't involve such complex factors.

Lucien: Excluding all of the above, there is only one situation that needs to be avoided.

A hint of nervousness mixed with curiosity arises. I blink my eyes and instinctively ask for further clarification.

MC: What is it?

Lucien: The experiment leader voluntarily announces giving up.

There seems to be a hint of implication in his low voice. I pause for a moment and then nod with understanding, shaking my index finger slightly.

MC: Professor Lucien is worrying too much~ In this self-control experiment, there won't be such a possibility occurring.

Lucien chuckles softly.

Lucien: At the beginning of any experiment, the experiment leader is filled with enthusiasm and belief. However, as it progresses, their mindset can unconsciously change.

Lucien: So I believe there's no need to rush to a conclusion... After all, you just said it yourself, that you really wanted to see me, right?

As he speaks, Lucien's body quietly draws closer. The night breeze is gentle, making the end of my hair caressing his face, as if there are some hidden thoughts entwined between us.

Even though we are still leaning on the railings of our respective rooms, I can't help but feel like he can hear the drumming heartbeat in my chest.

Lucien: I do have something I haven't told you yet.

Lucien: Not just today, but every night since we parted... (whispers softly) I've been missing you.

My heartbeat suddenly quickens. Under his focused gaze, I try to distract myself by pinching my palm, attempting to appear nonchalant as I avert my gaze.

MC: Hearing this before going to bed, I think I can have sweet dreams tonight.

MC: But if you want me to give up, you'll have to try a little harder~ Good Night, Professor Lucien.

Lucien gazes at me intently for a moment, then sighs lightly and straightens his body.

Lucien: (chuckle) …Good night, MC.

I nod and return to the room under Lucien's gaze. Calmly, I close the gauze curtain, then place my hand on my chest. My heartbeat is so fast that it feels like it could take flight.

I let out a sigh, half delighted and half annoyed, and bury my heated ears in the blanket.

What sweet dreams... Tonight, I probably won't be able to sleep.

[NOTE THAT, in this flashback Lucien is giving MC two choices that’ll available for her through the experiment, for MC to keep increasing the variables; or to stop the experiment by announcing that she's giving up with the experiment. And as you can see from part 3, MC still hasn't announced her surrender, only making it harder for Lucien to control himself by taking off the work badge. Since she hasn't announced her surrender, as far as both of them know the experiment still goes on, Lucien still needs to control himself, and she will increase the variable in the next part.]

[Part 5]

The air in the afternoon seems to be frozen in the silent gaze, with only the heat slowly spreading between us.

The heartbeat beneath my fingertips, the breath brushing against my face... everything about the person in front of me is telling me that he shares the same desires as I do.

I let out a sigh and dazedly gaze into Lucien's dark eyes. Suddenly, I feel a little regretful.

If we don't start this experiment, we would have more time to enjoy.

However, he's so smart that even if I don't say anything, he should have sensed my silent surrender, right? ...Then why doesn’t he 'respond' to me quickly?

I whispered in my heart, my high heels fell to the ground somewhere along the line and tangled with the pile of work badge.

Lucien: MC….

Lucien didn't speak, he just softly murmured my name.

The hand gripping my waist is caressing and tightening, as if wanting to embed me in an embrace, yet also trying to stop my movements.

The voice by my ear is as low as a sigh, brushing against my crumbling rationality. I clutch onto his clothes and bite my lips in frustration.

[Note: to avoid CN censorship- the narrative doesn't describe her actions and focuses more on her thoughts as she increases the variables and makes advances, remember that from the previous part (Part 4) Lucien is sitting on a chair, and MC also get on it- Now his breath is brushing against her face, so they're now looking face-to-face, the high heels fell to the ground somewhere along the line, so she's been on his lap for quite… some time now. She's a bit frustrated that Lucien hasn't 'responded' to her 'movements' on his lap. To put it bluntly, she’s ‘riding’ him right now.]

At this moment, Lucien's phone suddenly rings with a notification sound.

A sudden clarity flashes through my hazy mind, and I instinctively turn my head to see "The Seminar Group invites you to join the voice conference" flashing on the screen.

MC: ….

As my drowsy rationality returns, I become aware of the burning sensation in my ears. Worried about what urgent work might be, I force myself* to lean forward and take the phone from the table, handing it to him.

(T/N: 强撑 means to force oneself to do something despite struggles or difficulties, and of course, she's struggling to lean forward and take the phone because she is 'stuck' on his d-)

Lucien takes the phone with one hand, but the hand holding my waist doesn't let go. He softly shushes and casually taps on the screen.

The noisy voices suddenly come through the receiver, breaking the cramped silence.

Scholar A: ...I insist we need more evidence for this experiment.

Scholar B: It would be a waste of time..... Why do you keep quiet, Dr. Lucien?

Lucien: Keep going. I'm listening.

Despite saying so, his eyes are still stained by the tide and remain fixed on my face, as if he has no intention of letting me go.

I shake his unmoving arm, feeling slightly stifled by the situation.

Just a moment ago, he was acting all calm and unmoved, and now he's pulling and teasing me like this….

I lower my head with a hint of resentment, following the force on my waist as I go down and vent my frustration by biting him on the shoulder.

I hear a restrained gasp near my ear as I take his phone a little further away and quickly lean in to whisper in Lucien's ear.

MC: Since you have important matters to attend to, I'll take my leave.

MC: ...Once again, I have to let work occupy you first.

Amid our conversation, footsteps echo in the hallway, getting closer and mingling with the intense discussion that sounds just like the one on the phone.

The scholars who haven't hung up the call seem to have arrived outside the reference room. I swiftly place the phone back into Lucien's hand and get down to pick up my high heels from the ground.

It seems like leaving now is not an option; at least, I have to tidy up our appearances before they come closer….

The next second, my waist is tightly embraced, and I fall back into the embrace behind me again.

Lucien: I've been cooperating with MC's experiment... (whispers hoarsely) but is this as far as the variable changes go? Won't they continue any further?

His tone carries a casual yet dangerous smile. And as if responding to my previous retaliation, his scorching breath slowly trails up my shoulder.

This man is really…!

I lightly hum and give his shoulder a push.

MC: Let's talk about that later. Let me clean up first.

Lucien: No matter the reason, giving up halfway is not a good habit.

The sound of the door opening suddenly echoes, and the noise and footsteps from the corridor rush in. Separated by a dozen rows of bookshelves, I can almost see those approaching figures.

The restraint on my lower back shows no sign of loosening. I open my eyes slightly wider, and my tone finally becomes faster.

MC: Don't bully me, we won't make it in time…!

Lucien: (whispers teasingly) Really? But MC was obviously very bold when she taught me just now.

Lucien: Bold enough... to make me want to watch a bit longer, to see how far your experiment will progress.

As the words are spoken, the dark colors in my vision suddenly turn into a golden-red illuminated by sunlight. The footsteps that were close just a moment ago also disappear all of a sudden.

I snap back to reality and realize that the surroundings have turned into the rooftop at some point. I'm momentarily stunned and then realize that he has used Evol to take me away from the reference room.

The lush foliage reflects on Lucien's figure, and his eyes also flicker with changing light and shadow. His voice carries an unabashed smile.

Lucien: I thought you knew I wouldn't let anyone else see what you just did.

MC: (blushing) ...You, you did it on purpose!

Saying this, my tense shoulders finally relax a bit. I take a deep breath and suddenly remember something.

MC: They must have something to discuss with you, right? Will leaving like this affect their work?

Lucien: Don't worry. The final stage is just a continuation of the discussion, and there won't be any new issues to address.

Lucien: Compared to that, what's happening right now is even more important.

I blink my eyes and hesitantly open my mouth to speak.

MC: What you mentioned, could it be the experiment between us that hasn't yielded any results yet?

Lucien gazes at me without confirming or denying anything, moving closer in my direction. Without getting an answer, a kiss descends upon me without any hesitation.

It's as if the long-restrained emotions have finally found an outlet, his scorching lips moving passionately and entwining, and almost stealing all my breath away.

I have no choice but to part my lips, and the next second, Lucien takes advantage and delves even deeper, as if wanting to entangle and capture my tongue.

I find myself clinging to his neck, lifting my head as if surrendering to a hunter, feebly responding to this kiss.

Until I finally find a moment to catch my breath, I tilt my head away, struggling to open my mouth as if trying to gain more breathing space.

MC: Wait... this isn't scientific-

The embrace around my body seems to tremble. Lucien lifts his head, as if seeing through my intentions, his eyes filled with surprises and tinged with a sense of provocation. He shows me a rogue smile.

Lucien: ...Do we still need to discuss that experiment at this moment? Then let's continue.

Despite his words, he entangles me with a tidal-like kiss, voraciously devouring my words.

It seems like a layer of mist has clouded my vision, but I can't ignore the stirring of his fingers, so I can only beg softly for mercy.

MC: (blushing) I-I didn't mean to discuss…

Lucien: (whispers hoarsely) I told you before, giving up halfway is not a good habit, Miss Professor.

Lucien: So, make sure you let me hear it all, your judgments and conclusions…

With his words, his fingers press in as if punishing. I moan and my fingers clutching onto his solid back begin to tremble.

MC: (still blushing)....I-I remember that in the experiment, the variables need to progress continuously... to see more significant results.

MC: I-I haven't done anything now... w-why... why is it more... than when I just gave you "physical contact" earlier, I seem to be-

Lucien: Getting a stronger reaction?

Lucien takes over my words, and there seems to be a hint of amusement in his unsatisfied tone.

His deep breath comes close to my ear, and his fingertips teasingly dance around, then suddenly press in again.

Lucien: (whispers hoarsely) Because this Miss Professor hasn't considered the most core variable yet.

It’s as if fireworks are blooming in my depth, my heartbeat echoes with a humming sound. I pant a little, feeling a bit dazed, and open my mouth.

MC: ...And what is that?

A kiss that seems both like a reward and comfort lands gently on my lips.

Lucien: (exhales lightly and then whispers huskily) Your influence.

The flickering lights reflect in his glistening eyes as if trying to peer into my soul.

Lucien: "Lovers are like mirrors, reflecting their desires for each other."

Lucien: Every bit of my desire is tied with you.

Lucien: When you wish to explore the limits of my self-control, I'll be equally eager to satisfy your curiosity…

Lucien: Just like how I long to explore everything about you.

Lucien: But when you personally unlock this restraint named "self-control", naturally, I'll have even more desires.

His face looms larger in my field of vision. I tremble involuntarily, feeling his touch once again, accompanied by ambiguous whispers.

Lucien: (whispers lowly and hoarsely) ...Compared to seeking the result that we both unanimously don't care about... Right now, I'd rather immerse myself in every moment spent with you.

The kiss between our lips gradually deepens, and I involuntarily close my eyes. I feel like floating into the high clouds and falling into a soft marsh.

Every little gap in my consciousness is deeply imprinted with Lucien's traces.

In the hazy sunlight, it's as if I can hear his unfinished whisper.

Lucien: For example, in the present kiss.

[Lux's Ramble Corner]

For once I can actually see why it gets past the censor HAHA. Compared to the UR that's more explicit, PG is very careful with the kiss SP, using vague wording that can be interpreted innocently if you don't know the context😂 although you can also interpret MC's 'increasing variable' in the reference room as simply touching, or grinding against him; I think she was really moving up and down to f- him because her appearance also a mess and his finger slid very easily inside her until she reached the climax (the 'fireworks') in the rooftop garden ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°).

ALSO it’s mentioned that MC wears a long dress before she went into the reference room, see the how in the CG it gets rolled up lol. The angle of the CG is smart asf bc it hides their front appearance. 

ANYWAY H-WORD ASIDE, this date is really good. I enjoy their dynamic as 'opponent' and their battle of wits. Although you can say that Lucien is 'winning', at the same time he said it himself that his desire is under MC's control and influence. If MC wants to continue the experiments he's more than happy to oblige (and surprisingly he has a *really* good self-control), but since she's kind of already given up then it's just natural that he also let go of his restraint. The choice ultimately will always be in her hand.

In the MQ there's a conflict between satisfying MC's (and his) curiosity and satisfying their longing for each other. It's evident from the way Lucien immediately books the earliest flight home and MC literally takes a flight to Granada just to meet him. The experiment started smoothly, but they clearly grew to miss each other again too, and they began caring less and less about the experiment.

Although Lucien can also stop the experiment, he still wants her to be the one to put it to a stop. Because, again, her desire is his, if she wants to explore him more deeply, he will oblige. But, still, since he also misses her, he also entices her to stop the experiment, either by purposefully leaving the ID card so she will meet him in the reference room, or by tying himself up while stripping 😂.

'However, he's so clever that even if I don't speak, he should be able to see my silent surrender, right? ...Then why doesn't he 'respond' to me quickly?'

-

Really? But MC was very bold when she 'taught' me just now.

Bold enough…. to make me want to watch a bit longer, to see how far your experiment will progress.

As she increases the variables, she eventually silently surrenders, thinking that they could enjoy more time together if it wasn't because of the experiment. I think Lucien noticed this too, but at that point, he was also curious to see how far she could go.

"Lovers are like mirrors, reflecting their desires for each other."

Still, this curiosity doesn't last long because, in the end, his desire is tied to hers. The experiment doesn't matter anymore because she unconsciously desires more to spend every moment with him and for him to respond to her rather than to really test his self-control. And because of this he also let go of his self-control, showing a greater reaction even if she hasn't done anything because that's what she desires.

Also lastly, about the scratch marks and hickeys on his lower back....  the date clearly implies that they don’t immediately f-ck because of MC’s experiments. MC f-ing him with her on top won’t leave such marks too,  because to move in such a state, putting your hand here is not comfortable and that didn’t explain the hickeys (that also look older btw).  There’s no other explanation than they’re from the last time they fucked  before get separated- It must be rough and intense if they left marks that last for a month LOL. And with Lucien's tendencies to be more emotional when he parts with MC, it makes sense.

I think that’s all from me? Just my take on the plot lololol. Hope y’all enjoy this date as much as I do~

[buck1eys]

LOTR PEOPLE just thinking about a Possession AU where Éowyn and Faramir are PhD students at different universities researching this early medieval Old English text called Þāra Hringa Hlāford and they develop an academic rivalry about whether a certain two figures in the narrative were getting it on or not. This debate is much encouraged by a certain reincarnated Prof. G. L. Findel who knows an enemies to lovers moment when he sees one and gets them together for some field study

[xostomachaches]

us when we're nyan-derful 🐾

referenced these cutie pies :3c

[aeide-thea]

beautiful & also terrible to have the sort of brain where you find yrself at 4:30 AM looking up intersections between jewishness & arthuriana. like. fucking amazing rabbit hole but. why am i not asleep. my head hurts and my eyes are sandy.

however. some cool things (that probably some of you knew abt already, but i did not!):

King Artus – "a 'Hebrew Arthurian Romance of 1279… Judaized and transformed.' […] Although the story in 'King Artus' is fairly straightforwardly Arthur’s as we know it today, there are little touches that tie it to Jewish literature. When, for example, Arthur’s mother, the Duchess, learns that her husband is dead and she has been deceived by the shape-shifting Uther Pendragon, she tries to figure out how that could be possible. 'No sooner had he gone more than a bow-shot’s distance away from the castle than the messenger came straight to my chamber.' That bow-shot’s distance comes not from Arthurian legend but from the story of Hagar, who sits a bow-shot’s distance away from her son Ishmael when Abraham casts them out and she does not want to see her son die."

Bovo-Bukh – "a chivalric romance adapted in 1507 by Elye Bokher (Elijah Baḥur *Levita) into 650 ottava rima stanzas in Yiddish from a Tuscan version (Buovo d'Antona) of the early 14th-century Anglo-Norman original, Boeuve de Haumton. This tale of the heroic adventures of the noble Bovo, exiled from his homeland by the machinations of his murderous mother, his wanderings through the world (as far as Babylon), and the love story of Bovo and Druzyana, their separation, his triumphant return home, and the final reunion with Druzyana and their two sons, proved to be one of the most beloved tales in the Yiddish literary tradition over the course of more than two centuries."

Vidvilt – "anonymous 15th–16th-century Yiddish epic. This Arthurian romance of the chivalric adventures of Sir Vidvilt (and his father Gawain), based on Wirnt von Gravenberg's 13th-century Middle High German Wigalois, proved to be one of the most enduringly popular secular narratives in Yiddish literary history, with numerous manuscript recensions, printings (the first in an extensively expanded version by Joseph b. Alexander Witzenhausen, Amsterdam 1671), and reprintings, in rhymed couplets, ottava rima (Prague 1671–79), and prose, over the course of three and a half centuries. The anonymous poet of the earliest Yiddish version composed more than 2,100 rhymed couplets (probably in northern Italy), following Wirnt's plot rather closely through the first three-quarters of the narrative (abbreviating much and generally eliminating specific Christian reference), before offering quite a different conclusion."

Sir Gabein – "from 1788-89, a tale in which the Arthurian knight Gabein does not return to Camelot but – via Russia and Sardinia – reaches China and ultimately ascends to the Chinese imperial throne as the new emperor." slow blink.

also this is getting beyond arthuriana into just epic poetry generally but. literally all of this sounds fascinating.

anyway. literary scholar manqué.e hrs as always here at k dot tumblr dot edu obviously! however. my ear is open like a greedy shark, &c.

[missproducergirl]

Summer’s Covenant Date [CN Translation]

word count: 3,103

requested by: @sj224

notes: This translation was done with Google Translate. 9 time out of 10 it spews none sense so I had to take my best guess on a lot. Take everything with a grain of salt!! Special thanks to the best person in the world, @hopelesstotstan for proofreading!

[Part 1]

MC: Uh… So sleepy…

I opened my eyes with difficulty and used the person next to me to straighten up with one hand.

Even when I was on vacation with Victor, the long flight still made me unconsciously fall into a deep sleep.

Victor: Finally got enough sleep?

MC: Hehe, it’s so comfortable to sleep next to you… now what time is it?

I rubbed my eyes and looked at the laptop on Victor’s lap, wanting to glance at the time.

There seemed to be a file full of pictures and text on the screen. But before I could see it clearly, Victor closed the computer and reached out to open the window shutters.

Victor: See for yourself.

MC: What… Wow!

A bright golden streak of sunlight at the end of the cloud breaks into sight, and the quiet sunrise is extremely beautiful.

I woke up completely, picked up my phone to take pictures, and glanced at Victor.

MC: Speaking of which, why did you suddenly take me out on vacation?

MC: Could it be my reward for doing well recently?

Victor: Wasn’t someone talking about the end of summer?

Victor: Just this time, I’ll give you a chance to do it all over again.

I blinked and recalled the “encounter” when I said this sentence before—

While going out on location to film under the hot sun, three colleagues suffered from heatstroke one after another. Two colleagues fell ill at the same time, and a machine fell out of order.

Almost all of the late summer was devoted to work, and it was not until the breath of autumn turned the leaves gold that this busy time finally came to an end.

The leisurely activities and travel plans originally written in the summer plan were all wasted.

One day when I came home disheartened, I saw Victor packing a suitcase that I hadn’t packed for a while and suddenly felt wronged.

I couldn’t help shouting “I don’t like summer anymore”, and just stood there crying…

Now thinking of Victor’s surprised gaze at that time, I scratched my cheek in embarrassment.

MC: All those angry words… how do you remember…

Victor: After all, some people kept whining until winter, and it’s hard not to remember.

Victor: What’s more, with such a clear and feasible demand, there is no reason not to make it come true.

As if sensing my embarrassment, Victor raised his hand and rubbed my hair. I couldn’t help raising my smiling face, pretending to hold his hand solemnly.

MC: CEO Victor!

MC: Don’t worry, I will try my best to cover all the unhappiness from before!

[Part 2]

Sunglasses, skirts, fresh fragrance—

I took one last look in the mirror and patted my cheek with satisfaction.

Enjoying summer, of course, starts with dressing up beautifully. It would be even better if you can also fascinate the calm Mr. Li!

I adjusted my expression, opened the door of my room, and prepared to make my debut.

MC: Victor, I—

Victor: Ready?

The voice that sounded at the same time made me stunned for a moment, and before I had the time to feel sorry for my failed appearance, my attention was attracted by the person next to the sofa.

Victor seemed to have been waiting for a while, the computer at hand was still on, and he closed the screen when he saw me come out.

He rarely wore a fancy resort-style shirt, perhaps because he was used to his usual minimalist style. The colorful patterns looked particularly bright on him.

Although it has been a long time, I still recognized at a glance that it was the shirt I bought him.

I still remember his slightly helpless expression when he first received it, but I didn’t expect that I would really see the day he puts it on!

I hopped to his side, pulled his arm, and looked at him left and right.

MC: This shirt suits you very well!

Victor: I can’t think of another person with this peculiar taste.

MC: Isn’t that because there are people who can pull off these kinds of “outlandish clothes”~

MC: I haven’t seen you wearing it, I thought you didn’t like it.

Victor: I just didn’t find a chance to wear it.

I met his calm gaze and couldn’t help raising my eyebrows at him.

MC: I understand! What Mr. Li means is that we should go to the beach a few more times in the future!

MC: You can rest assured that I am here to ensure that your floral shirts can maximize their value.

Victor: Idiot. Is that the point?

Victor: Let’s have enough sun this time before talking about the future, so as not to leave any regrets.

MC: Mr. Li is right. It shouldn’t be too late, let’s go out now!

I took his arm and was about to go out, but Victor hesitated for a moment, turned around, and took a big backpack.

I watched him put the computer in, and then he took the items from my hand.

Victor: Put your things in here first. Some people will definitely lose them after running around.

MC: Some people don’t forget to complain about others even if they are kind enough to help…

I muttered while helping him organize his backpack, and took a second look at the computer that was inseparable from him.

MC: Victor, do you still have unfinished work?

Victor: Still a little bit. It will be taken care of soon.

It has been a long time since we got off the plane. Judging from his usual efficiency, this must be a lot of work.

Could it be that he decided to accompany me on vacation temporarily before work can be scheduled?

A trace of guilt rose from the bottom of my heart. I hugged him lightly and glanced at the clock beside me.

MC: Don’t worry. Work is important.

MC: It’s still early. How about I go around by myself first, and you can finish your work at ease and then meet up? How does that sound?

Victor hesitated for a moment, then nodded.

Victor: Okay. Don’t go too far, and keep in touch.

MC: No problem!

[Part 3]

I thought Victor would stay in the room to deal with work, but I didn’t expect him to come to the beach with me.

I was collecting shells by the sea, and he continued to work in a hammock not far from the shore.

[Flashback]

MC: Are you going to work here?

Victor: What is the problem?

MC: It doesn’t suit your style to work in such a noisy place.

MC: Could it be…

I paused on purpose, leaned closer to him, and blinked.

MC: Am I so good-looking today that someone can’t take their eyes off me?

Faced with my teasing, Victor just smiled lightly without averting his gaze.

Victor: I’m just afraid that some dummy will get lost and I will have to find someone else.

[Flashback ends]

Recalling the conversation just now, I puffed up my mouth somewhat unconvinced.

There is just a coastline here, where can I get lost?

I turned my head, and I could see the slightly fancy shirt under the tree from a distance.

The person leaning on the hammock didn’t seem to notice me, so I took the opportunity to make a face, only to meet Victor’s gaze in the next second.

MC: !

Victor: ?

Even from a distance, being stared at by him like this made me a little guilty, and I hurriedly gestured to him and mouthed a sentence.

MC: “Concentrate!”

I don’t know if he understood it, but I saw him faintly smile and then turned his eyes back to the computer.

I breathed a sigh of relief and was about to continue my walk when suddenly a group of boys who looked like middle school students ran past me.

They wore uniform jerseys with the words “Youth Training” printed on the back. The leading boy proficiently took the soccer ball under his feet and called out to his friends behind him.

Boy: Come on! There’s no one here!

They ran towards a nearby net, appearing to be playing beach soccer.

Seeing that this place is going to become more lively, working in this environment will be difficult for even Victor, right?

MC: I’ll ask him if he wants to change places.

I put away the shells I picked up along the way, and quietly approached Victor, bypassing the children playing soccer.

However, when I saw the familiar figure clearly, I soon realized that my worry was unnecessary.

Victor was half leaning in the hammock, wearing earphones, as if he was talking to someone.

Not knowing if he encountered a difficult problem, he scratched his hair unconsciously, revealing a trace of entanglement in his serious expression.

Victor: Is there anything else I need to do that day?

Victor: …Okay, let’s adjust it like this.

A low voice faintly floated into my ears. The sea breeze was blowing gently, and the sun fell on him through the shade of the trees, but it didn’t disturb him at all.

Although it was inappropriate, my eyes were still firmly attracted by the person in front of me.

His fluffy hair brushed against his fingers, and the light shirt hugged his waist tightly with the sea breeze.

I unconsciously slowed down, wanting to peek a little longer.

I’ve seen him at work a lot, but it doesn’t seem to be common to see him on vacation.

With the noise around, he leaned on a soft and comfortable hammock, and still stared at the computer so intently…

I couldn’t help but speculate about what kind of work and what kind of clients would be able to disturb Mr. Li who was on vacation.

??: Hey—watch out!

Before I could think about it, there was a call from behind, and I suddenly felt something lightly hit my ankle.

I looked down and there was a soccer ball at my feet. I looked over to the school boys and they were waving at me to kick the ball back.

MC: It’s a little far away…

I was a little embarrassed looking at the shoes on my feet. I subconsciously looked at Victor, and my brain suddenly had an idea.

I don’t know if he still plays soccer now. If the ball is passed to him, how will he react?

I cleared my throat, trying to get his attention.

MC: Victor!

Seeing him looking up, I lightly kicked the ball to him and pointed to the children not far away.

MC: They accidentally kicked the ball away, can you help pass it back?

Victor: I can.

Victor didn’t seem to notice my thoughts. He put down the computer and turned over, naturally aiming in the direction of the goal.

Then he took a step back, raised his leg, and kicked hard—

The ball drew a perfect arc in the air and flew towards the goal.

Seeing this, the boys started running. One of them ran to the goal, jumped high, and kicked the ball. It went straight into the goal!

Boy: Nice shot!

MC: Wow! Goal!!

The schoolboys cheered and hugged each other, and I also cheered and rushed toward Victor.

Victor: Be careful!

MC: That’s amazing! As expected of Older Brother Vic who kicked down my sandcastle!

Victor: …Are you praising someone?

MC: Hey, have you been playing soccer since then? Why haven’t I seen it?

Victor: I don’t…

MC: Oops I should have filmed it! Can you kick it again later?

Victor: …

I wanted to say something more, but Victor swept me off my feet and put me in the hammock.

Victor: Why are you so excited?

MC: I didn’t expect to see you play soccer. I feel very pleasantly surprised.

Victor: Even if it is a surprise, it is too easy for you to be satisfied.

MC: Because it’s all about you. Wearing the clothes I chose and doing things I’ve never seen before is a surprise to me.

MC: How about it? Isn’t this very touching?

I cupped Victor’s cheek and pinched it, but he didn’t hide, just left a chuckle in my palm.

Victor: Is there anything more I can want?

MC: Hmm… not for now.

Victor: Okay, then I will answer you one by one.

Victor: I started playing less soccer after breaking your sandcastle, less after working.

Victor: So that kick just now was pure luck, there is no second time.

MC: But…

Before I could finish speaking, Victor leaned over and turned off the computer. He then flipped through the shells in my hands with his fingers.

Victor: Our reservation for the water sports that you wanted to play is soon. Let’s go there together.

MC: Are you done with your work?

Victor: Yes, it’s taken care of.

Victor: Let’s go. Show me what treasures you picked up along the way.

[Part 4]

The short vacation passed quickly, and it was already our last night in a blink of an eye.

After dinner, Victor and I walked along the beach. Today’s weather is exceptionally nice, the night sky is clear, and the broken stars reflect in the sparkling sea.

A perfect vacation in every sense, even the ending. Looking at the scenery in front of me, I couldn’t help but sigh.

Victor: What’s wrong?

MC: I was thinking, this summer is really coming to an end, and there is no chance for me to regret it.

Victor: It seems that it is nosy to make up for your regrets.

MC: Not at all!

MC: It’s rare that Mr. Li is so proactive in cooperating with my sense of ritual, but I’m not moved yet.

I shook his arm fawningly. Victor chuckled lightly and held my hand.

Victor: Tell me, what kind of ceremony did you originally envision?

MC: Actually, it is almost the same as now. Enjoying the warm sunshine and cold drinks, and stepping into the water with your favorite people.

MC: After a leisurely day, it would be even better if you can watch the fireworks at the beach.

Victor: Fireworks?

Victor showed a thoughtful expression, and I waved my hands hastily.

MC: I just said it casually, just to make a deep impression.

Victor: However, it is indeed a good arrangement.

The person next to me seemed to smile a little, and I was about to ask more when I caught a glimpse of an unfamiliar scene out of the corner of my eye.

It was an area enclosed by a small fence and the small gate was ajar, which looked a bit strange on the flat beach.

MC: What is this? I haven’t seen it before while walking around.

Victor: Go and have a look.

I followed Victor and approached. I looked at Victor from outside the fence, but I stretched out my hand and pushed the door open.

There is nothing special in the enclosed area, except for a few rows of black shadows with small red lights on the ground.

MC: This is…

I felt that these black shadows look familiar, but the sky is too dark, and I can’t see clearly.

Just as I was about to get closer to confirm, the “black shadow” suddenly took off.

A slight hum lingered in my ears, and I instantly recognized it as a drone.

MC: Why are there drones here?

I looked around subconsciously but saw no one nearby. I vaguely had some guesses in my heart. I turned my head and glanced at Victor.

MC: Could it be…

Victor: Look up first.

He didn’t return my gaze, just squeezed my hand. I tried my best to suppress my curiosity and looked up at the sky with him.

The drones slowly arranged a pattern in the air, and I took a closer look. It was a small Shiba Inu.

MC: Hahaha, this looks like the doll I gave you.

Victor: Not too stupid.

MC: The next pattern… is pudding!

MC: Wait, aren’t these patterns all my favorite things?

Victor: You can guess.

MC: Then I guess the next one is Mr. Li’s red wine!

I opened my eyes expectantly and looked at the sky, only to be greeted by a camel.

Victor: Unfortunately, alcohol was not approved.

MC: Watching the drone show without getting drunk…

I muttered softly, subconsciously wrapping my arms around Victor.

The patterns in the sky are all related to me without exception. Kittens, bowknot hairpins, lipstick…

The memories of spending the summer together are brought back again and again, and those bright days spread a happy background in my memory, making the corners of my mouth uncontrollably curl up.

Looking at those colorful patterns, I gently tickled his palm.

MC: When was this prepared? The pattern is quite cute, not like Mr. Li’s style.

Victor: If it is not cute enough, I am worried that dummies will not appreciate it, so I adjusted it many times.

MC: I won’t… huh?

I was about to refute when I realized something.

MC: You have been staring at the computer busy with work before, so you are not talking about this, are you?

Victor smiled and squeezed my hand.

Victor: Let’s watch it first.

After all the patterns were spelled out, the drone flickered like a star for a moment, then moved slowly again.

I carefully watched and read out word by word—

MC: [In English] “See you next year”...

MC: Is this a message from summer?

Victor: It can be understood in this way.

Victor: Unpleasant things will always pass, and the life you look forward to will come again.

Victor: So there is nothing to regret. Instead of struggling for so long, you should just tell me what you want.

MC: But even if I didn’t say anything, you have it all considered.

MC: There are even plenty of surprises!

I pointed to the sky and tugged on his shirt again.

MC: Maybe you have a better understanding of me than I do.

Victor: Fool. Willing to bid farewell to summer this time?

I nodded vigorously, then shook my head again.

MC: It is true that I can let it go willingly now, but I will still look forward to the next summer!

The hovering drones landed back on the ground and parked neatly beside us.

Victor looked down at me, his deep voice overwhelmed the waves and reached the bottom of my heart.

Victor: That’s good. After all next time when summer comes…

Victor: I don’t want to be the only one looking forward to it.

You can find the call that comes after the date here.

[nnnneeev]

'ALL THE FEELS' RAMBLES BELOW BECAUSE IM --💥💥💥💥💥

*breathes in* okay let's calm down for a bit

can't deny that im a barbatos and solomon kisser but their solo parts????? IT'S SO GOOD im going to cry seriously theyre such a good singer i love them even more after this 😭💙💙 also dia, luke, and simeon's parts!!! GOD . triworlds i love u..

THEYRE LITERALLY GIVING ME ALL THE FEELS AGH IM SO PROUD OF THEM 🥺🥺😭

ven's moodboard for tonight

[shinydelirium]

No More Kiro Content/Translations

As the title suggests, I will no longer be doing any more Kiro translations. My interest in the game has taken a huge nosedive and I'm sick and tired of what Papergames has done with his character/story arc and karma illustrations (specifically how MC is portrayed in them). I'm sorry to anyone who was looking forward to reading new Kiro content. As to the person who sent me an ask about my favorite Kiro dates, I truly am sorry for not responding since I rarely go on Tumblr nowadays. I will try to answer when I find the time. Thank you to everyone for reading my translations since I started. I really do appreciate it and gained some experience from doing them. Take care and stay safe.

[aoharushiyo]

the wall / leo/need [eng translation]

TITLE: the WALL ARTIST: Leo/need SERIES: Project Sekai: COLORFUL STAGE! COMPOSITION: buzzG LYRICS: buzzG OFFICIAL MV: (L/N game size ver) (L/N full ver)

ENG:

I wanted to know what lies at the heart of the lightning-like feeling I felt as I held the wavering twilight sky close, not wanting to let it go

In truth, I don't need to be understood, but I still want to know why I believed not being able to touch anyone's heart was a strength

This battered melody's rhythm is woven with blue-coloured scars, and because these scars will never disappear, to sing is to hurt, to be afraid, but yet I sing this ordinary song that connected us, this song, which can overcome every wall

"It's alright for your hands and feet to tremble," you told me, but could my timid, transparent self even leave anything behind?

Everything I wanted to convey should have already dried up, but why is it that I still want to paint the orange that bridges day and night?

"It's alright to smile," you told me, who had become afraid of being alone, as my heartbeat pounded at the beautiful sight before me Surely, the gods created us to be weak so that we wouldn't have to walk our paths alone

The happiness that brings tears to my eyes and these countless, towering walls— both of them, all of them, are all for the sake of this voice

As I recounted the days I loathed, days where I felt as if I was drowning in a deep sea of mist, you listened, all the while resiliently holding in your tears

This battered melody woven with blue-coloured scars overflows from me, and because these scars cannot be separated from its rhythm, to sing will still be painfully lonely, but yet with you by my side, I want to sing this song; I want to sing a song of the world, a disfigured, yet warm, song which brings down every wall

JP:

稲妻のような感情　その奥を知りたくて 離さないようにぎゅっと抱いた　黄昏に揺れる空

本当はわかってほしくて　わかられたくなんかなくて 誰の心にだって触れないことが強さだと思っていた

ぼろぼろのメロディ　律動　青い傷跡 それが混ざりあって消えないから 歌うのは痛いよ　怖いよ　それでも君と紡ぐありふれた唄 すべての壁を越える唄

震える手足は健在　君はそれでいいと言うね 透明で臆病な僕に何が残せるのかな

伝えたいことなんてもう　枯らしたはずなのにどうして 昼と夜のあいだ　その橙を描きたくなるの

美しい光景　脈動　笑ってもいいよ 独りが怖くなった僕を 神様はきっと　僕らが独りぼっちで寂しく歩まないように か弱く産み落としたんでしょ

噎せ返るような歓びも　聳え立つ無数の壁も 全部　全部　この声のためにある

溺れるほどに深い霧の海で自分を呪いたくなる日は 君の目がずっと　強くて　泣けちゃうくらいに

溢れたぼろぼろのメロディ　律動　青い傷跡 それが混ざりあって　これからも 歌うのは痛くて寂しい　でも 君とならそれを、世界を、歌ってみたい すべての壁を溶かす　歪であったかい唄

[perhaps-in-anotherdream]

[CN] Li Zeyan’s Reliance Date (Eng Translation)

⌚Warning⌚ This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 依靠之约, that is yet to be released on the global server! ♡

⚠️ Additional Warning ⚠️ while the entire date is not spice-themed, but the steamy parts are borderline dangerous and highly not recommended if you don’t qualify for the 17+ age rating (CN server). so, the call is yours~ :>

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

【Subbed Video】

─────────────

【Chapter 1】 

MC: [on the call] …We need to find some local media outlets that we can potentially partner with for our ad campaign ASAP.

MC: [on the call]  Also, email me a copy of the revised design proposal for the main exhibit booth.

As soon as I hang up the phone, a flurry of work notifications causes my phone to vibrate again. I roll over on the soft couch and can’t help but heave a sigh.

MC: Sigh…

[MC’s Company Name] has undertaken several major projects this year, and all of them have been executed very successfully. The company’s reputation is also gradually expanding beyond Loveland City.

Last month, our company bid for a large-scale project in collaboration with Copenhagen City Council and Loveland City, and I worked overtime for over a month for this.

However, just as we were about to secure the project smoothly, we were maliciously intercepted by the competing company Shuanjian Media. In the end, it was due to LFG stepping in that we were able to resolve the situation with a narrow escape.

Even though the project has been secured, a lingering sense of defeat from being backstabbed and making critical errors remains with me, refusing to dissipate from my mind.

Perhaps because of this, I’ve recently spent the majority of my time being on top of all kinds of tedious work, afraid that if I don’t handle them in time, it will lead to further consequences.

The sound of steady footsteps gradually draws near, and I turn my head to see Li Zeyan walking towards me. He places a cup of hot Longan tea on the coffee table next to me.

LZY: This is already the eighth time a certain someone has sighed tonight. What’s so thorny about the project that got you on edge?

I put my phone down and, somewhat coquettishly, open my arms toward the person in front of me.

MC: We’re planning an exhibition for the project in Copenhagen. Just finalized the venue today and now ironing out the details.

He readily responds to my cue and enfolds me in his arms. His fingers trace their way up my neck, massaging the skin there in a soothing manner.

LZY: If I remember correctly, the preparation period for this exhibition is quite long, and there’s no need for your recent overtime to catch up on the schedule.

MC: You’re right, but the coordination needed for various aspects of a multinational project is quite intricate. Starting earlier allows more elbow room…

MC: Plus, the reason I’ve been working overtime isn’t just for this project. The business interview you’re starring in will also be recorded tomorrow.

MC: It’s the final episode of the year, so I cannot afford any slip-ups!

LZY: You’ve already confirmed the program sequence with me three times today. What could possibly go wrong?

While speaking, Li Zeyan sits down next to me and draws me into his arms.

MC: After all, the external press would absolutely kill to have their names in the show where the CEO Li of LFG is making an appearance. So, I definitely need to be 200% cautious.

Nestled in his embrace, breathing in his familiar scent, I make a conscious effort to relax my somewhat tired brain.

LZY: If you encounter any difficulties, reach out to me at any time.

MC: I’m facing difficulties right now, and I’m in urgent need of CEO Li’s encouragement!

I pucker my lips and lift my head to approach him. The corners of Li Zeyan’s lips curl up slightly, and he lowers his head–– a soft, warm touch descends before leaving just as quickly.

Though fleeting, the tenderness of the moment washes over my heart. I nuzzle his chin with the tip of my nose, feeling perfectly content.

LZY: [chuckles indulgently] Dummy, you’re so easily satisfied.

MC: Why wouldn’t I be? What could be more soothing than a kiss from CEO Li?

MC: As for work matters… CEO Li has already helped me a lot, so I’ll work hard and handle the rest on my own!

LZY: We’ll talk about the “working hard” part later. But if you keep dawdling like this, the bathtub is gonna need a refill of hot water.

MC: Hehe, right now, you should say something like, “Honey, it’s bath time~”

LZY: …

Ignoring the speechless look in his eyes, I lazily shift my position and nuzzle his neck, then stand up with a smile.

MC: Would you like to join me for some relaxation time?

I notice that his fingertips seem to tense up for a moment. Before he can really come and “arrest” me, I make a face at him and dash into the bathroom.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【Chapter 2】

Soaking in the warm bath, I feel the fatigue in my body dissolving into the water.

Just as I’m about to use my phone to find a drama to watch and completely clear my mind, work messages begin popping up one after another on the screen, and I subconsciously click on them.

MC: [to herself] So, the collaboration partner we agreed on before has backed out…?

As part of our tourism project with Denmark, we are planning to establish recreational and promotional zones in both cities, and we have found an experienced collaborator in the relevant field to partner with.

MC: [to herself] Everything was already talked through and all set, so why are they bringing up issues with the company’s capital chain at this critical juncture?

I feel my insides somewhat burning with rage, so I give Anna a call. She also sounds just as angry and swiftly catches me up to speed on the situation.

Anna: [on the call] I did some digging, and it turns out one of the shareholders of this company has a very close personal relationship with the owner of Shuangjian Media.

MC: [on the call] Shuangjian Media?

Isn’t that the black-hearted company that tried to sabotage our tourism project?

Anna: [on the call] We initially partnered with them because of their experience in cross-border tourism projects, but now wrangling with them is more cumbersome than it’s worth. I think it might be better to take this opportunity to switch to another company.

MC: [on the call] …let me think about it.

I release a sigh and hang up the phone, then bury my face in the water, blowing bubbles as a mild head throbbing creeps over me.

The perfect company… As I ponder on this matter, a face flashes through my mind.

As a matter of fact, I have casually mentioned this project to Li Zeyan before, but he didn’t show much interest in it.

Should I… go ask him?

Even though I know in my heart–– LFG is the ideal choice that can’t go wrong, for some reason, I can’t seem to bring myself to voice my thoughts.

I can’t always turn to Li Zeyan to help resolve my problems every time I run into one.

No longer in the mood to soak in the warm bath, I reach for the shampoo and press the nozzle, intending to wash up as quickly as possible.

I press down hard twice, but the bottle only emits a sputtering sound, and the last remaining bit of shampoo drips pitifully into my palm.

MC: …

Akin to a sudden spark explosion, it instantly triggers a denotation of all the built-up frustration inside me.

I take a deep breath, jerk myself up from the water and throw on a robe, intending to head for the cabinet to find a new bottle of shampoo.

Little did I know, the moment I step onto the tiled floor, I feel my feet slip out from under me, and my body uncontrollably begins to topple forward––

With a loud thud, the immediate sensation of pain shoots up my knee.

MC: [in pain] Hiss…

The pain causes my eyes to burn hot, and I slide down onto the bathroom floor, rubbing my knee.

A flurry of somewhat anxious footsteps echoes outside the door. Moments later, the door is flung open, revealing Li Zeyan’s face, tension written across his entire countenance, an expression that is rarely seen on him.

LZY: [panicked af]  What happened?

The blast of cold air from the open door causes me to shiver. Noticing this, he closes the door before squatting down beside me.

MC: …I slipped and banged my knee.

As he looks at my slightly reddened knee, a hint of helplessness crosses his expression.

LZY: [sighs with infinite indulgent resignation] Restless.

His warm thumb massages the area around my reddened knee, causing the jumble of fretful emotions in my heart to instantly turn into a surge of grievances and pour out.

I blink, trying to dispel the mist clouding my vision. The finger caressing my skin pauses for a moment before suddenly landing at the corner of my eye, catching me unawares.

LZY: [even more indulgently] Crying because it hurts too much?

MC: …no, it’s not that!

MC: It’s nothing serious, just that I got a call from Anna earlier. There’s been… a minor hiccup with the tourism project.

Pouting my lips, I recount to Li Zeyan the “bad news” I’ve just received.

LZY: Do you need my help?

This seems to be the second time he has asked this question. I struggle with myself for a moment before shaking my head.

MC: There’s… no need for now, but if I can’t handle it myself, I’ll definitely reach out to CEO Li.

Hearing me respond this way, Li Zeyan doesn’t press further, and he simply places his palm on the side of my knee.

LZY: Does it still hurt?

Listening to his tender tone, I can’t help but gently hook my finger around his.

MC: It hurts… I can’t get up.

LZY: [laughs helplessly] When a certain stubborn someone fixates on something, there’s no stopping her, but she’s oddly honest when it comes to being afraid of pain.

MC: I’m just being a little persistent, is all. I can’t always have you be my safety net every time there’s an issue… ouch!

My knee twitches slightly, and a dull ache once again surges through my knee, reminiscent of spreading out along silken threads.

LZY: You can’t solve two things at once, so take them one at a time.

LZY: Do you want to take care of your knee first, or deal with the work matters?

MC: …knee.

The air in the small bathroom with thick with white steam, and even Li Zeyan’s faint sigh seems to blend into the steaming hot vapor.

LZY: [lets out a complex laugh; it’s of sb who is all-knowing of all happenings but is infinitely indulgent towards you]  Then listen to me.

MC: [confused]  What…

–

Before I can finish my sentence, Li Zeyan has already shown me through his actions how I should “listen.”

A soft touch imprints on my skin, and a burning sensation spreads from my knee along my skin to my entire body.

I jolt slightly and freeze for a moment. The patch of skin kissed by that softness tingles, and it seems like even the pain is slowly dissipating.

LZY: Don’t fidget; it might make the pain worse.

The deep, slightly hoarse tailing note of his voice, accompanied by the sound of running water, causes me to subconsciously draw my leg back a little, only to have it restrained in place by that hand again.

A gentle sensation, carrying with it a slight chill, seems to pepper its way over my knee, and the painful spot feels as if it’s being licked with cherishment and care.

All the senses in my body seem to be concentrated on that one spot, and I can’t help but take a light breath.

MC: Li Zeyan… 

LZY: [SO SOF– but you can also hear he’s THERE–]  Hm?

MC: …It’s nothing, I just wanted to say your name…

The fingers supporting my knee tighten slightly, and a surge of scorching breath sweeps over me, swallowing my trailing notes.

I follow his breath and, bit by bit, probe deeper, my heart in my chest pounding in synchronization with his increasingly rising body heat.

Warm water continues to gush from the showerhead, soaking both Li Zeyan’s clothes and mine without distinction.

A body temperature hotter than mine gradually closes in, and I feel as if I’m drowning in this steamy heat swirling in the air.

The lingering colorful bubbles from the shower gel float into the air, then burst open with a pop, leaving behind a soft chime drowned out by the sound of water.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【Chapter 3】

Even though I gave up on the bubble bath halfway, ended up having to take a second shower, and by the time I went to bed, it was already the middle of the night, I still woke up early today.

[MC’s Company Name] annual business interview program is scheduled to shoot its final episode today, and Li Zeyan will be appearing as the heavyweight guest in this installment.

I have postponed all my other work and arrived at the studio early to ensure every detail of the shoot is absolutely flawless.

The soft white light from the softbox projects onto the light gray background wall, dimly reflecting the shadows of people hurrying around.

Standing in front of the filming equipment, I direct the production crew to adjust the set.

MC: This table needs to be moved a bit more. It doesn’t look well-positioned at the moment.

MC: Turn the reflector on the front left a little more to the right… there, perfect!

MC: The set is almost ready. I’ll go and check on the guest first.

—

After saying hello to the supervisor, I head to the dressing room.

Li Zeyan, clad in a suit, sits in front of a vanity mirror, his bangs swept up, causing his somewhat piercing eyes to be enhanced with an even deeper intensity.

The moment I walk in, those eyes precisely capture me from the reflection in the mirror.

MC: How is the preparation coming along, CEO Li?

LZY: Not bad. Is everything taken care of on the set?

Detecting a hint of jest in his tone, I walk over with a smile.

MC: Yup, that’s why I’m here to check in on this side of things–– CEO Li is our important, esteemed guest after all, so we can’t afford to be negligent.

MC: Therefore, today, my entire day belongs to you, CEO Li.

I wink at him through the mirror and catch a subtle smile playing at the edge of Li Zeyan’s lips.

I sit down on a stool nearby and watch the makeup artist styling Li Zeyan.

From this angle, his ocular orbit and the bridge of his nose appear even more defined, accentuating the depth of his eyes all the more.

MC: CEO Li’s side profile could outshine many stars on the cover of fashion magazines without competition.

LZY: [laughs in spite of himself] …always laying it on thick.

Even though he says this, the slight arch at the tip of his brows betrays a hint of delight.

Spellbound, as I continue to watch him, my phone suddenly vibrates twice, and a message from Kiki pops up––

Kiki: Boss, great news!!

In the chat window, a push notification jumps into my sight, and a few familiar words grab my attention.

MC: [reading the news] “Shuangjian Media Faces Major Crisis! Multiple celebrities under its banner are implicated in tax evasion scandals, and the investigation is underway. The amount of tax evasion has reached up to…”

Upon seeing the number below, I take in a sharp breath of air.

With such a large amount of tax evasion being investigated, it’s sure to land them in serious trouble.

Although I have caught the wind of some rumors before, suddenly so many people being exposed at once seems more like a deliberate action…

A vague idea surfaces in my mind. I instinctively look towards the man not far away, only to lock eyes with him directly.

LZY: MC.

I haven’t even noticed when, but his styling is already complete, and the makeup artist has left the dressing room, leaving only the two of us.

The slightly slim-fitted suit highlights his already tall and straight stature, and his slender fingers unhurriedly adjust the cufflinks. He looks in my direction, lifting his head slightly.

LZY: Help me out.

I raise my eyes and see a rose gold collar pin loosely hanging from the collar of his light gray shirt. 

I walk up to him and carefully fasten the collar pin. My fingertips inadvertently graze against the skin of his neck, eliciting a slight quiver of the Adam’s apple beneath the collar.

A somewhat scorching breath caresses my bangs, leaving a tickling sensation.

LZY: [laughs in amusement] Why are you zoning out?

His warm fingertips are on my neck, gently grazing the skin there intermittently.

MC: Just saw some good news that came as a relief for body and mind, that’s why I was a little distracted.

MC: Shuangjian Media, the company that intercepted [MC’s Company Name] before, has hit a roadblock… I wonder who “played the hero to uphold justice.”

I smile and wink at him, trying to discern any inkling of a clue from his expression that would confirm my guess.

However, he simply lowers his eyes slightly and looks at me, a barely perceptible arc forming on his lips.

LZY: [chuckles softly, but that’s a mastermind chuckle i tell you lmao] That’s quite nice.

MC: Li Zeyan, you…

A knock on the door cuts me off, and the voice of my assistant comes from outside.

Assistant: Boss, CEO Li, it’s almost time for the shoot to begin.

MC: Got it, we’ll be right there.

I purse my lips, suppressing my urge to inquire further, and loosen my hands, intending to escort Li Zeyan to the filming studio.

To my surprise, the pair of arms holding me within show no intention of letting go. He lowers his eyes, his gaze intent upon me.

LZY: Given the importance of this shoot, there ought to be an additional step in the preparation process.

With his head lowered, Li Zeyan leans in towards me slightly. A gentle and familiar breath assaults my senses, and his soft finger pad presses between my lips and teeth, hinting at something ambiguous. 

I cradle his face and lift myself up on my toes.

Our breaths intertwine for a brief moment, but a gentle ripple is left in my heart, reminiscent of a dragonfly lightly touching the water’s surface.

MC: So, even CEO Li needs a little encouragement before stepping in front of the camera?

LZY: I learned it from a certain someone.

The light in those deep eyes remains locked onto me, shimmering slightly, radiating a glow that seeps into my heart.

LZY: And it’s very effective.

—

Such scenes are run-of-the-mill for Li Zeyan. His tone remains steady throughout and devoid of any trace of tension.

LZY: The economic situation this year isn’t conducive to expanding the business scope or making risky investments, but there are more opportunities in the lower-tier markets compared to previous years…

As I watch Li Zeyan through the camera lens, the soft light, which leans more on the cooler tone, accentuates the depths of the man’s countenance all the more.

He speaks at a measured pace, but each word is uttered with an inexplicable sense of certainty.

Host: Although CEO Li mentioned just now that this year isn’t favorable for expanding business extern, LFG seems to be steadily venturing into new fields this year.

LZY: As a matter of fact, LFG has not been as stable this year as it may seem from the outside. On the contrary, we’ve encountered more crises than in previous years.

LZY: The failure of some investments has even put us under the preying eyes of many industry peers.

LZY: But fortunately, I’m not alone in holding up LFG, and LFG is not an isolated island––

As he speaks, his gaze seems to subtly shift towards me behind the camera. In that brief second our eyes interlock, the corners of his lips curl upward into a small smile.

But when I focus and take a closer look again, it’s as if that fleeting smile was never there.

LZY: LFG was able to weather this year’s storms without any mishaps not only due to our decisions but also thanks to the countless colleagues who worked tirelessly day and night to recover the company’s losses, as well as to the support of our subsidiaries.

LZY: Especially the companies that LFG has invested in. Without them, LFG would’ve encountered even greater challenges this year.

Li Zeyan’s straight-from-the-shoulder remarks leave even the host a little taken aback, an expression of surprise settling on their face.

Host: It appears that even LFG, regarded as the lion king in the eyes of the others, has times when it rides the waves to advance.

LZY: That’s inevitable; no one walks a solitary path in this society.

LZY: Having your own plans and making decisive choices is important, but choosing the right people to move forward with is equally important.

I am slightly taken aback.

This was not in the script; it’s obviously an impromptu remark from Li Zeyan.

I’m not sure why, but these words suddenly make me think of those eyes gazing into mine in the bathroom last night.

The unnecessary persistences in my heart seem to quietly start to disintegrate. I tightly clench my fingers and pull my attention back to the show.

Host: We can tell that CEO Li is speaking from the heart. It seems that not only for the company but also for you, CEO Li, personally, do you have someone who can be considered as your exclusive “valued person”?

This time, I clearly see the smile in his eyes. I hold my breath slightly, waiting for the answer that I may have already known for a long time, yet can’t help eagerly anticipating––

LZY: [while looking at you] I do. It’s a well-spring that will never run dry, even in the desert. No matter what trouble may arise, I know without a doubt––

LZY: [while looking at you] She will be by my side forever.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【Chapter 4】

After the interview concludes, the filming crew and I head to the Central Grand Hotel.

To celebrate the completion of year-end work and the official wrap-up of the show, [MC’s Company Name] is holding a team-building celebration party here.

Perhaps because the end of the year is drawing closer, a festive atmosphere gradually begins to permeate, filling the banquet hall with laughter.

Being spurred on by this pure joy, I also end up having a few extra drinks.

I find myself feeling a little woozy, until, finally, Li Zeyan takes the wine glass from my hand and escorts me all the way to the lounge of the suite.

—

Inside the room’s bathroom, I turn on the faucet–– the cool water flows over my hand, washing away the slight tipsiness from the alcohol.

After the buzz from the alcohol has worn off a bit, I exhale and push open the bathroom door.

—

The lights in the room are not lit, and a familiar voice can be heard drifting from near the window. He seems to be on the phone with someone.

LZY: …got it. Email it to me.

The high heels under my feet tread on the soft carpet, barely producing any sound as I walk quietly to the floor-to-ceiling windows––

Outside the glass windows of the high-rise, thousands of lights spread out into the distance like a dazzling mosaic of stars.

Li Zeyan is lying on the carpet, the neon lights falling upon him in soft, colorful specks.

I sit down by the freestanding panoramic bathtub not far from him, watching as he hangs up the call.

MC: Was that about work?

LZY: Mm. I heard [MC’s Company Name] is looking for new partners for the Denmark project. I’ve asked the marketing department to draft a proposal. Once it’s finalized, I’ll send it over to you.

MC: But… weren’t you not very interested in this project before?

LZY: It’s true that the profit margins of this project are finite for LFG. However, if we approach it strategically, it could be a breakthrough in the Nordic market.

Seeing my somewhat baffled expression, he raises an eyebrow.

LZY: Since a certain someone has been dragging her feet, I have no choice but to take the initiative and propose it myself.

LZY: Or perhaps you already have other choices in mind?

MC: Of course not!

I don’t shy away from meeting those deep eyes of his squarely. My heart skips a beat, and I’m reminded of the question I’ve been holding back all afternoon.

MC: Before I give you my formal answer, I also have something I’d like to ask CEO Li––

MC: Shuangjian Media artists were found to have engaged in tax evasion. Helping [MC’s Company Name] vent some frustration this way… that was CEO Li’s doing, wasn’t it?

LZY: After all, a certain someone has been frowning and being glued to her phone even during meals for the past two weeks because of the troubles this company has stirred.

LZY: It’s best to take care of it early on, so it doesn’t take up more of your energy.

I’m momentarily stunned, and as I reflect on the recent events, a surge of emotions suddenly intertwines in my heart.

MC: So, CEO Li, what you are subtly reminding me is that I’ve been too occupied with work recently and have been neglecting you?

LZY: [you can’t hear me, but I’m screaming––]  I simply want to have the share that’s rightfully mine.

His understated words convey a hint of tenderness that’s impossible to miss, and it sears into my heart, making the swaying toes of my feet pause mid-motion.

MC: Li Zeyan, thank you. Even though it may sound very formal, I still want to say thank you.

LZY: I wonder who was the person that said before that, you and I, we are one identity?

I’m slightly taken aback for a moment–– I did seem to have said those words not too long ago.

At the time, FengZhen Group was making moves against LFG, and I couldn’t be more grateful to be the one who could stand by his side.

–

[Tidbits]: It’s a call-back to Li Zeyan’s 2024 CNY UR: Burning Imprints~

–

MC: [teasingly]  I believe I said “and LFG” at the time.

LZY: [confidently shrugs off LOL] Same thing.

LZY: Both LFG and I are enmeshed in many complicated relationships, and more and more branches and leaves are slowly growing outward.

LZY: So there’s no need to be so anxious. You’ve long been the sharpest blade capable of breaking the siege for LFG.

The lingering haze that has been weighing on my mind for the past half a month suddenly clears up. In its place, there arises a kind of sweet and surging fluttering sensation, and it’s overwhelming enough to fill my entire heart.

I did seem to be a little too anxious, so anxious that I overlooked the fact that I didn’t need to be in a hurry to rush forward. The unshakable position by his side will always belong to me and me alone.

I lower my eyes, my gaze tracing the contours of his outline obscured by the darkness.

MC: Li Zeyan… you will forever be my first choice.

–

As the words leave my lips, my ankle is suddenly clasped by a warm, dry palm.

Followed by a sigh that almost blends into the night, a twinge of pain shoots through my calf––

My eyes widen, watching as Li Zeyan’s lips meet my skin and nip me gently. He raises his eyes to interlock with mine, and I can see a hint of dissatisfaction swimming in their depths.

LZY: [GOSH THAT SULKY YET SEXY TONE] You’ve hesitated for too long.

Warm fingertips trace upward along my calf little by little, as if offering a kind of appeasement.

The worries haunting me every now and again, concealed in the darkest recesses of my heart, are set alight and burned to ashes.

MC: …I didn’t take that long.

LZY: Since I am your first choice, don’t hesitate.

His fiery breath snakes slowly up the inside of my knee, accompanied by comforting words tinged with a layer of inexplicable rosy hue, causing one to become addicted.

The soft touch rests gently agains the bend of my knee, causing me to shiver involuntarily. I chuckle softly and look at him with a semi-playful gaze.

MC: Um… Mr. “First Choice,” could you help me with something––

MC: Tell me, what can I do to make you happier?

Not waiting for me to finish my sentence, the pressure on my thigh increases slightly, and suddenly my body feels lighter.

The cry of exclamation hasn’t even left me before I find my entire person already wrapped in strong, solid arms.

LZY: You knowingly ask the question.

His deep eyes are so close to me, almost within reach. I can clearly see countless sparks surging beneath them, stirring up an ambiguous and inexplicable heat.

LZY: [chuckles softly] Also, while I said I would help you, it doesn’t mean you won’t have to pay the price.

LZY: After all, I don’t do business at a loss.

LZY: You still have time to think about… what you can give to pay me.

My heart is filled to the brim. I wrap my arms around his shoulders, bury my face in the crook of his neck, and release a sigh of contentment.

The throbbing and undulations of his chest pound against my body again and again, and even the depths of my very soul seem to be trembling along with the motion––

Filling up my entire being.

──────────────────────────────────────────

[sylvia-forest]

[CN] Shaw's Monkey King Date

⚡Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a Date which hasn’t been released in EN yet!⚡

[Released Date: 17 June 2024]

You can read the Prologue from here!

[Section 1]

The late nights in the small town are much denser than in the city.

Even though it's nearly midnight, Shaw and I are still sitting at opposite ends of the sofa playing with our phones, indicating that neither of us intends to sleep.

Shaw: Music cut. MC: You've already cut three pieces. Shaw: That may mean that this playlist is no longer good and it’s time to change the playlist. MC [angrily]: Don't question my musical taste!

I glared at him, warning Shaw not to secretly change my playlist. Seeing my firmness, he shrugged and backed down.

Shaw: Okay, this part is okay now, I feel like I can continue listening to it.

He adjusted his headphones and lazily slouched a bit further down, his gaze returning to his own phone screen.

Seizing the opportunity, I glanced at the progress bar of the player. Good, good, once this song finishes, it'll be perfectly timed.

I subtly adjusted my sitting position and quietly retrieved the confetti cannon that I had hidden under the pillow.

I no longer paid any attention to what the singer was singing about in the headphones; my heartbeat and the pounding bass drum were the only things I could feel, growing faster and more restless.

58, 59, 60......!

I pulled out the confetti cannon and pulled the string—Bang!

MC: Happy Birthday!!

The sharp sound of the confetti cannon and the song "Happy Birthday" from the playlist rang out simultaneously, interrupting the chirping of cicadas outside.

Amid the falling streamers, I beamed a wide smile at Shaw. He set down his phone and nodded back at me.

Shaw: Thanks. MC [confused]: ??

This guy, his reaction to my perfectly timed birthday surprise is so calm! I pouted in dissatisfaction.

MC: Shouldn't you be more surprised, more amazed? Shaw: It's a bit difficult.

Shaw brushed off the streamers from his face and smiled.

Shaw: After all, I am the one who brought you here to celebrate my birthday. You have been procrastinating and refusing to go to bed. I have already predicted what will happen at 12 o'clock. Shaw: Furthermore, if you have more "surprises" waiting for me until daylight, and you surprised me now, what's next?

Shaw [in a low playful tone]: Or are you saying that you want...

Shaw cleared his throat, and I suddenly felt uneasy.

Shaw [DAMN HIS SARCASTIC VOICE SOUNDS SO HILARIOUS]: Oh my, you actually sent me such a loud birthday wish right at midnight on June twenty-first. I'm so pleasantly surprised, moved, and touched that it brings tears to my eyes. MC: Stop! Stop! STOP!

I was grossed out by Shaw's cheesiness, covered in goosebumps, and quickly tried to cover his mouth, but he easily caught my wrist with one hand.

Shaw raised an eyebrow at me, his tone teasing.

Shaw [teasingly]: Do I need to continue praising you? MC: Hmph, never mind then.

I wrinkled my nose and tried to take my wrist out of his hand.

He tightened his grip unexpectedly, even pulling me forward a bit, causing me to lose my balance and fall onto him.

Shaw: Do you want to ignore me? Don’t you want to hear me finish what I have to say?

Feeling frustrated, I lightly bumped my chin against his chest twice to prompt him to continue.

Shaw: Even though it wasn't a surprise, you're the first one today to wish me a happy birthday, and I appreciate that. MC: Just satisfied? Shaw: I'm very happy too, that's why I wanted to tease you. MC: ... Such a perverse taste. Shaw: How can you call it perverse taste? It's the privilege of the birthday star, I'm the boss today.

Thinking back to the past few years when I teased him on his birthday saying "Birthday star is the boss," I feel like I'm lifting a rock only to drop it on my own foot

As I was speaking, Shaw's phone kept buzzing intermittently. Just as I was about to glance curiously at it, Shaw had already responded.

Shaw: Just some birthday wishes.

I took his phone and unlocked the screen. I scrolled up and down a couple of times, and sure enough, I saw familiar faces.

There were colleagues from Isolate, the owner of the Live House, Professor Shen who had already sent his greetings earlier in the day, and the old neighbors...

MC [excitedly]: Wow, without realizing it, you've become so popular.

Shaw [displeased]: Why do your words sound so strange? Could it be that I was not popular before? MC: It definitely wasn't as good as it is now.

Shaw's mouth curled into a subtle smile, and he responded with a prolonged "hmm."

Shaw: Now that you mention it, it’s true that ever since I met you, you've been organizing all sorts of surprise events with this group, making them more enthusiastic than ever.

I laughed and scrolled up again, and suddenly a text message sent during the day fell into my eyes.

Magician Zhang: Don't forget about tomorrow's show. You need to be there by 1 PM.

I read out the text in the text message and was a little confused.

MC: What program? Shaw: Hasn't Magician Zhang been learning ancient magic tricks here for several months? He has a performance tomorrow and asked me to do an opening act to warm up the crowd. MC: That's it...wait a minute! MC: Isn't the "tomorrow" he mentioned actually today? Why are you still taking on a warm-up performance on your birthday?

Shaw was a little confused, obviously not following my logic.

Shaw [confused]: What do you mean? MC: What I mean is...

My lips trembled a bit. Although I felt confident when I thought about it, I felt a bit unsure when I actually said it out loud.

MC [resigned look]: I feel like something always comes up on your birthday to disturb the celebration. MC: There's never a time when the whole 24 hours are completely mine. MC: It's just a little... upsetting.

Shaw [surprised]: ……

Shaw was obviously a little surprised, and then he seemed to have thought of something and raised the corners of his mouth again.

Shaw [teases her]: Completely yours? Oh, you want us to be like conjoined twins? MC: Is that not allowed? Shaw [in a good mood]: Of course it is. Then for tomorrow's little performance, you can join me on stage. MC [dumbfounded]: Huh??

—

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

—

[Section 2]

Even though it was just a small warm-up performance, we still arrived early at the town theater.

There was already a banner at the entrance of the courtyard promoting today's ancient magic performance. I looked up and tried to recognize it for a while.

MC: ... "Journey to the West"? How are they going to perform "Journey to the West" with ancient magic tricks?

Shaw: It's like regular magic tricks, but with some storyline elements added to make it more interesting for the audience. MC: Storyline elements... We're not going to have to perform too, are we? Shaw: Who knows.

Shaw spread his hands with a smile, clearly teasing me again.

Shaw: Anyway, you go over there and change, and I'll see you in the yard later.

After he finished speaking, he took a few steps forward, then, as if sensing my gaze, he turned back, the corners of his mouth curving into a slight, enigmatic smile.

Shaw: You even want my time when I'm changing clothes? MC [shouts]: ...I didn't mean to be conjoined to that extent!

My face heated up, and I quickly turned around and slipped into the dressing room.

There was already a stylist waiting in the dressing room. After I sat down, I couldn't help but ask her.

MC: How long will this show take?

The stylist picked up the makeup brush and smiled at me.

Stylist: It should only take three to five minutes. Stylist: Shaw specifically told us not to take up too much of his time because his girlfriend is waiting for him.

These words sounded a bit strange, and I couldn't help but pout a little.

MC: ... He didn't tell you guys that I'm demanding and bossy, did he? Stylist: No. What he actually said was, "My girlfriend came all the way to spend my birthday with me, so of course, I belong to her. Non-negotiable, five minutes."

I imagined Shaw negotiating the time with them for the performance and couldn't help but laugh.

During our chat, the stylist had swiftly finished my look. I looked at the "fairy" in the mirror and let out a sigh of relief.

MC: Thank goodness... I thought I might have to play some centipede or spider demon. Stylist: How could we make you play a demon? After all, the Monkey King hadn't even started his journey to the West at that point. MC: Monkey King? You mean he wants to act… Child: Wow, Your Majesty, you're so handsome!

The noise of children suddenly came from outside, interrupting my words.

The stylist understood and pointed towards the door. I smiled knowingly, lifted my skirt, and quietly went over to push the door open.

The warm rays of the morning sun filled the courtyard and also fell on the shining figure in the center of the courtyard.

Shaw was dressed in a bright red Sun Wukong costume, surrounded by a group of children.

Even though he is wearing heavy shoulder armor, it does not appear heavy or cumbersome. Instead, it accentuates his heroic and upright appearance.

Child: Your Majesty, I want to see you wield the golden cudgel! Child: I want to see it too! I want to see it too!

Shaw [irritated]: Tsk, why don’t you watch Old Man Zhang? Isn’t his performance better? Child: He is better, but the king is more handsome! MC [burst into laughter]: Hahahaha!

I burst into laughter hearing the group of "monkey children" praising Shaw excitedly. 

When Shaw heard my laughter, his gaze immediately locked onto me, with a hint of pleading in his eyes.

Shaw [sigh in relief]: Are you finally ready? Shall we go? MC [playfully]: Um... no, I also want to see Your Majesty perform a bit~

I intentionally pronounced "Your Majesty" in a playful and teasing tone. Shaw visibly tensed, then gritted his teeth and walked towards me with determination.

Shaw: What do you want to play? Let me play with you first—

Shaw's large hand gripped my waist and began to tickle me.

I couldn't resist, laughing and trying to evade him, but I couldn't escape his embrace.

Shaw: Still want to play? MC: No, hahaha nope!

I laughed so hard that I couldn't breathe and quickly raised my hands in surrender.

The group of children looked at the two of us curiously, and one of them suddenly understood.

Child: Your Majesty, you're so powerful, you've already subdued the demoness! MC [angrily]: I'm not the demoness!

How childish. The moment those words slipped out, I felt so childish. Unfortunately, the kids in front of us were even more enthusiastic, pointing at the two of us.

Child: But you're the one tempting the Monkey King! In the cartoons, it's said that the Monkey King must stay away from women! MC: Ah, what a mess... Shaw!

I was both amused and exasperated, so I decided to play along with their "Your Majesty."

Since the children started talking, Shaw's chest kept vibrating from trying not to burst into laughter.

Seeing a hint of embarrassment on my face now, he struggled to hold back his laughter and waved his hand at the kids.

Shaw: Did you hear? She's Ling Gege's girlfriend, MC.

[T/N]: "Gege" (哥哥) is a Chinese term that means "older brother". It is often used as a term of endearment or respect towards an older male, similar to how "big brother" might be used in English.

Shaw: Right now, I haven't transformed yet, so I'm not the Monkey King, and she's not a demoness. Shaw: Later, even if I do become the Monkey King, she won't be a demoness, she'll be a fairy sister, got it? Child: Oh…. Shaw: Alright, didn't you say you wanted to grab a good spot at the stage? Let's go before it's too late.

The children seemed to understand, but as soon as they heard that they had to occupy a seat, they stopped thinking about it and all went out in a swarm.

I watched their figures disappear at the doorway and lightly tapped Shaw's hand resting on my back.

MC: Shaw, do you know your explanation just now had a bit of a loophole that didn't quite satisfy me?

Shaw [confused]: ?What loophole.

I tilted my face up, tiptoed slightly closer to him.

The warmth from my lips intentionally brushed past his tense jawline as our breaths mingled.

MC: Are you really planning to "stay away from women" once you transform into the Monkey King?

—

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

—

[Section 3]

Of course he won't be close to women. On the contrary, I'll step up my game even more.

This guy really can't handle any provocation... or teasing at all.

I nervously pressed my lips together, not wanting the others backstage to notice that I had just been "tormented" by Shaw.

[You guys can already guess what might've happened 🤭, the consequences of provoking Shaw]

After chatting with Magician Zhang a few words, Shaw turned and walked towards me.

Shaw: Just wait for 20 more minutes. When the drumming starts up front, we'll go on stage. MC [anxious]: Wait, wait, go on stage directly? Don’t we need to practice? Shaw: Do you still need to practice something you have played a hundred times?

Shaw raised an eyebrow and suddenly snapped his fingers near my ear. Startled, I turned my head and saw that he had magically produced a paper flower in his hand.

MC [surprised]: …..?!

Although I knew Shaw could perform some tricks and magic, I always found myself gaping in awe whenever I saw it firsthand.

After a few stammering sounds, I remembered I should say something.

MC: What I mean is, you’ve got it all figured out, but I still don’t know what I’m supposed to do on stage. MC: I don’t have much acting experience, what should I do if I mess it up for you? Shaw: Hmm, now that you mention it, we should definitely rehearse a bit.

As Shaw spoke, he took hold of my wrist and led me to the prop room backstage.

Shaw took out a plate from the corner, played with it twice, and handed it to me.

Shaw: The rehearsal is pretty simple. After all, this role suits you perfectly. Just stand there holding the tray and make your favorite expression. MC [dumbfounded]: What expression? Shaw: Just like a pufferfish, all puffed up and glaring at me. MC: Shaw, I don’t—! Shaw [pleased with his provocation]: Yes, that's the expression.

I glared even harder, but my cheeks deflated as I let out a huff.

MC: Then I just hold an empty plate and stare at you? Shaw: Of course, the plate is not empty, serve it well.

Shaw smiled and, once again, pulled out a few glass beads from some hidden pocket. He placed them on the tray and covered them with a red cloth.

Shaw: You are now delivering elixirs for Lao Jun, but I stop you along the way. Shaw [acting mode on x1]: Fairy, can you let me see what you are holding in your hand?

I blinked and realized that he was guiding me, and I couldn't help but become playful.

MC: Nothing, just an empty plate. Shaw [x2]: Really? But how come I smell the scent of elixirs?

Shaw leaned in and sniffed the plate twice, then suddenly turned his gaze towards me.

Before I could react, his hand swiftly brushed past my temple, plucking one of my hairpins.

He clasped his hands around the hairpin, and when he opened them again, it had turned into one of the glass beads that had just been on the tray.

MC [shocked]: ….Oh?! Shaw [x3]: So, the elixir wasn't hidden in the tray but transformed into the fairy's hairpin flower, making it harder for me to find.

He spoke slowly and deliberately, leaning in closer with an intense gaze.

Shaw [in a sly voice x4]: Fairies are so cunning.

He should have said these words in the tone of a Monkey King.

But maybe because he wasn't rehearsing seriously, I clearly knew: the voice was Shaw's, the face was Shaw's, and the person teasing me right now... was Shaw.

The lips that had been kissed by him earlier began to warm up, the heat gradually spreading to my cheeks. I struggled under his gaze, unwilling to concede yet unable to resist.

MC [blushing hard]: You, you took away the elixir, how can I give it to Laojun? Shaw [x5]: Of course, I won't just take the fairy's elixir for nothing. I'll make it up to you with something even better. He flicked his cloak and lifted the red cloth on the tray, but didn't fully uncover it. Shaw [x6]: I have several peaches that ripen once every nine thousand years. Eating them will grant us longevity equal to that of heaven and earth, and our ages will match those of the sun and moon.

He suddenly unveiled the red cloth, revealing several bright pink peaches on the plate.

Shaw's eyebrows arched in unabashed delight, his eyes outlined with fiery red eyeshadow that seemed to burn through my very soul.

Shaw [in a light tone]: Fairy, would you like to... share eternal life with me?

I stared at him blankly, my lips parting and closing before I finally spoke dully.

MC: If we have longevity equal to that of heaven and earth, then I'll have to celebrate thousands of birthdays for you. It would be exhausting!

Shaw burst into laughter. He seemed to say something softly afterward, but the booming drum announcing the start of the performance outside drowned out his voice.

Before we got ready to go on stage, I asked him one last question.

MC: By the way, how do your tricks always manage to fool me? Shaw: Why do you say?

Shaw smirked, looking very pleased with himself.

Shaw: Magic is all about guiding attention, creating something out of nothing. Shaw [he sounded so happy here]: But with you, there's no need for guidance, because you only see me.

—

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

—

[Section 4]

The little program ended smoothly.

After the appetizer, it was time for the main event: Magic Zhang's portrayal of "Sun Wukong" took the stage.

Magic Zhang had already set up the stage with colorful balls, swords, beans, and rings from his tricks. I was about to watch the master's performance when suddenly, I heard a cold snort beside me.

Shaw: Caught the work bug? MC: No, I'm just an audience member... Shaw: Audience members can't do that.

Shaw didn't hesitate to cover my sight with his hand and gently turned my chin towards him with his other hand.

Shaw: He's the Six-Eared Macaque, I'm the true Monkey King. It's time for you to come with me.

As we wished, no one disturbed us for the rest of the time, not even the group of followers who seemed to have disappeared somewhere.

He and I walked around the town leisurely, and finally returned to the entrance of the theater.

Magic Zhang's performance had long ended, and the gradually setting sun fell on the empty stage. Shaw looked around.

Shaw: It's about time. Shall we change clothes and head back to the inn for cake? MC: Who said I left the cake at the inn?

Thinking about the biggest surprise I had prepared to show Shaw today, my voice couldn't help but carry a hint of excitement.

MC: While I've enjoyed watching you perform today, I actually have a magic trick of my own to show you.

I pulled out a chair and asked Shaw to sit down, and pointed to the high stage in front of me.

MC: Guests, please be seated, this fairy is about to take the stage!

Shaw's lips curled with interest as he nodded and took a seat.

I walked towards the stage and brought out a screen I had prepared earlier.

MC: ... Grandpa Zhang said it should be wedged here so people in the audience won't see the hidden passage......

I carefully adjusted the angle of the screen according to the method that Magic Zhang had taught me before. After making sure that nothing went wrong, I waved to Shaw.

MC: Watch closely now, my magic trick is called... Shrinking into Inches, Emerging from the Earth!

With solemnity, I gestured and chanted incantations in front of my sole audience member, slowly moving towards the hidden passage.

At the exact moment when the screen completely blocked my figure, I swiftly jumped into the hidden passage and dashed towards another exit.

The path was dimly lit underfoot, and my dress billowed wildly, so I simply held it all in my hands.

I may not have the ability to shrink into inches or emerge from the earth, but I have a heart that races towards him without hesitation.

MC: Phew... almost there!

On the table at the exit sat the cake that the stylist had set up for me earlier. After calming my breath for a moment, I picked it up and lifted the curtain to reveal it.

MC: Shaw, happy birthday————

The final note of joy lingered on my lips.

Because the moment the curtain was raised, Shaw stood in front of me, staring at me intently.

I had lost count of how many times today my mouth had dropped open in astonishment. My dumbfounded expression inevitably made him burst into laughter.

MC: You, you knew I would show up here?

Shaw: I know almost all of Magic Zhang's magic tricks and mechanisms. MC: But this... This isn't you trying to steal my thunder, is it? MC: Shaw, can't you give me a sense of accomplishment? MC: You will make me look very stupid…

Shaw [lowers his voice]: Why are you being silly?

Shaw interrupted my scattered thoughts and pulled me out of the dim passage.

Shaw: It's not that you're not capable of acting. Shaw: Pretending to be surprised intentionally, you find it cheesy and foolish. Shaw: Besides, someone told me they wanted to be conjoined twins with me for 24 hours, so I didn't want to wait, and I couldn't wait. Shaw [whispers lightly, barely hiding his hidden emotions]: MC, you've been running for too long, I can't wait any longer.

Shaw repeated twice that he couldn't wait, turning my slight disappointment into a bittersweet feeling.

But I still had a bit of unwillingness lingering, so I couldn't help but ask him.

MC: So, did I not manage to give you any surprises or unexpected moments today? Shaw [satisfied]: Of course you did, but I'm not telling you.

Shaw returned to his usual cunning self, taking my cake and placing it on the table.

Shaw: By the way, you didn't finish saying "happy birthday" to me just now. You need to say it again.

Do we still need to add some solemn reflections and vows during our blessings? It seems unnecessary now.

Because those things have long been mixed into various half-true and half-joking remarks between us, inadvertently becoming our promises.

I gazed into his bright eyes, where there was a dazzling sparkle.

MC: Happy birthday, Shaw.

I hope his fiery eyes can see through my heart.

I sat with him in the empty theater, sharing cake and chatting away, even the amber twilight tinted with sweetness.

MC: I'm curious though, even though you perform at Live House, it's always this cool style, no interaction with the audience at all. MC: But tricks are meant to amuse the audience. It’s not quite like your character. Why did you agree to this show?

Shaw: I didn't want to agree to it at first, but I liked the role very much. MC: Do you mean you really like it? Are you referring to the Monkey King? Shaw: uh-huh. MC: Do you like the Monkey King? Shaw: What do you mean, you don't like it?

Shaw's rhetorical question was a bit too natural, so I waved my hand with a smile.

MC: No, no, I mean I didn’t expect you to like the Monkey King enough to be willing to play him.

Shaw raised an eyebrow, his fork gliding through the cream twice.

Shaw: I didn't have the chance when I was young. Growing up, I had to experience it at least once.

I caught the key words instantly.

MC: Your childhood dream was not to become the Monkey King, right? Shaw: Don't you want to?

The tone of this rhetorical question is even more natural this time. I'm both surprised and amused, always feeling...

It was as if I was holding the hand of kid Shaw whom I had never seen before.

Now I seem to have only one last question left for this perfect birthday.

MC: So why have you been in such a good mood lately? Just because you get to play the Monkey King?

Shaw [ponders over a bit]: Yes and no. Mainly because here, I can satisfy what I wanted to do when I was young—unrestrained, free, and easy. MC: You seem pretty free and easy in Loveland City too. Shaw: It's different. MC: What's the difference?

I asked this question twice, but Shaw didn't answer. He just looked at me with a smile.

After a while, he suddenly spoke.

Shaw [hesitant]: MC, do you think I seem particularly childish and domineering today? MC: Hm?

Upon careful reflection, today's Shaw indeed rigorously exercised the authority of "the birthday star is the greatest," appearing much more assertive and straightforward than usual.

Upon this realization, the question he just avoided answering... I seem to have... a hint of an answer. I chuckled.

MC: Perhaps just a little bit, but it's nice to give yourself a reason to be childish for a day, isn't it? MC: And there is someone to be childish with you.

I pointed to myself. Shaw looked satisfied, leaned over, and took away the last trace of cream from my lips.

Shaw [pleased with her answer]: That's right, it's great to have you by my side. Shaw: "The Monkey King" has had enough freedom. It's time to return with you to Loveland City, back to the mortal world.

—

🙉 Epilogue 

🙉 Call

🙉 Texts

🙉 Video call 

🙉 ASMR 

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

"Note from the translator"

Heya! I hope all of you're in good health. It has been a while since I last posted something, life has been quite hectic for me 🫠. Annnyways first of all I apologize if you find my translations sloppy or find any mistakes, plz feel free to tell me. I'm currently so busy right now that I've hardly had time for other stuff, Summer courses + internships are quite overwhelming 😵‍💫for me. So plz don't think that I've given up on Shaw cuz I'll never ever give up on him😤!! I'll translate his content wholeheartedly but do expect late updates from me! I just wanted to clarify this so that you guys don't think that I've abandoned this blog.

That's all from me! Thank you sooooo much for all of your support and please continue supporting me in the future cuz it adds more fuel to my motivation🥰! Have a nice day!

—

[laxmiree]

[CN] MLQC Lucien’s Distant Similarity MQ translation + video with sub EN

⚠️ SPOILER ALERT!! ⚠️

This post contains a detailed spoiler for a MQ that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to   notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~

I can only watch as he leisurely pulls on the string, keeping my breath held as the front of my garment could easily come undone at any moment.

As if unintentionally, Lucien raises his leg a little bit, and I slide down to the bottom, tightly pressed against him through the thin fabric.

I can even feel his muscles momentarily tense up. Unable to hold back, I let out a soft moan, which is rewarded with a rush of heated breath against my chest.

After several failed attempts, the person in front of me finally seems to lose patience. His fingers hook onto the thin fabric, undoing it.

[Warning]: The content of this MQ is pretty explicit and may not be  suitable for individuals under the age of 17 (CN server). It is recommended that those who do not meet this age requirement refrain from proceeding beyond this point.

=[Video + English subtitle]=

(T/N: I highly recommend watch the MQ in video format or following the voice acting for complete experience.)

note: if it doesn’t work, check reblog~

=[Transcript ver]=

[Part 1]

??(Lucien): Excuse me, this classmate, do you also have a class in Building 48 next?

A familiar voice brings my gaze back, and the person in front of me curved his eyebrows and eyes. The tips of his hair gently sway in the wind, radiating beautiful colors.

MC: What if I do?

Lucien: If you do, perhaps I can share the journey of the past with you.

MC: ...Oh dear, what if I say I remembered it wrong, and I actually have no class?

I curl my lips with a mischievous smile as he takes a step closer to me, his voice filled with suppressed grievances.

Lucien: Then, may I have your contact information? So that after class, I can share dinner time with you.

MC: (laughs)….Pfft, I can't escape from you, can I?

Lucien: I can only blame you for being so charming.

He said it as if it was only natural, allowing those sweet and delightful feelings to naturally fill my heart.

MC: Oh, have you finished "reporting" already?

Lucien: Yes, I believe the teacher in charge of reception will take me to the classroom shortly.

He gently interlaces his fingers with mine, and together we lean against the outer wall of the open-air corridor, letting the refreshing sea breeze envelop us.

Colorful rays shimmer on the surface of the sea, and brilliant golden light blends into the abundant azure, winding all the way to the horizon.

MC: It's so comfortable to have classes here, isn't it?

Lucien: It's still a bit stuffy. Later, you can take a stroll in the shade, but take it easy and go at a slower pace.

Lucien: Otherwise, when all my classes are over, the repetitive scenery might dampen MC's enthusiasm.

MC: Professor Lucien underestimates his own charm. I just hope that by then, my eyes will still have some spare attention for other sceneries that aren’t you.

This summer, Lucien, as a guest lecturer, came to the H University summer camp located by the seaside to give a three-day lecture series.

Due to the beautiful sea views nearby, he also invited me to spend a week exploring the area after the lectures are over.

MC: However, your classes are shorter than I imagined. Let me check where your classes are taking place in a moment.

MC: I'll just wander around the school and pick you up after your class... Where should we go afterward?

Lucien: What to do, I'm already looking forward to the time speeding up until it's time for class to end.

MC: It's a pity that Professor Lucien can't skip class~

The gentle sea breeze carries the laughter that resonates at the same time from far away. But, an unfamiliar voice accompanied by anxious footsteps interjects into our conversation.

??: Professor Lucien, I apologize for keeping you waiting for so long.

A young man with a worried expression hurriedly approached, his forehead glistening with sweat, and the shoulders of his shirt damp.

He nervously and discreetly wipes his hands on the sides of his pants and extends his hand to Lucien very politely.

??: You can call me Xiao Tian. I'm in charge of welcoming you to this summer camp.

Lucien: Hello, Teacher Tian. It seems like it's about time. Could you please take me to the classroom first?

Xiao Tian: Of course, Professor.

He nervously purses his lips and looks apologetically at us.

Xiao Tian: The temperature has been extremely high these past few days, leading to a significant increase in electricity usage and causing circuit malfunctions. As a result, the air conditioning is not functioning properly.

Xiao Tian: We are currently working on emergency repairs, but considering the situation of the special guest lecturers…

Xiao Tian: If it is convenient for your schedule, we can reschedule the classes to a later time.

I remain silent and sneak a glance at Lucien.

There is no emotion on his face as if he has not been disturbed by the restlessness. After a moment, he calmly speaks.

Lucien: Are the other classes of the summer camp proceeding as usual?

Xiao Tian: Yes, they are, but we really don't want to cause any inconvenience to the special guest lecturers. We will try to fix the electrical issue as quickly as possible, and then…

Lucien: Thank you for understanding, but since the students are attending classes as usual, there is no need for me to make alternative arrangements.

Lucien calmly interrupts Xiao Tian's words and checks the time on his watch.

Lucien: Teacher Tian, you have worked hard. Please show us the way.

The other person is momentarily stunned, seemingly surprised by Lucien's response. He quickly expresses his gratitude with a deep bow.

Xiao Tian: Please follow me.

Lucien: No wonder the vice dean's office felt a bit stuffy earlier. It seems like I have “demonized” the temperature here a bit.

As we walk behind Teacher Tian, Lucien quietly leaned down and whispered into my ear.

I almost couldn't hold back my laughter and had to bite my lip, leaning closer to him and whispering back into his ear.

MC: The weather is still hot, and I can imagine that the classrooms without proper ventilation will be even hotter.

MC: You've been working in the laboratory overtime for the past few months. Is it okay for you to handle such hot weather?

Lucien: Of course, and I also don't want unnecessary things to occupy our time in the coming days.

Lucien: As for my body…

Lucien: (chuckles) To ensure the satisfaction of my Miss Supervisor, I have been diligently taking care of myself day and night, even more diligently than how I nurtured the tissues in the culture dishes.

His eyes hold an even deeper smile, and his index finger gently twines around my fingertip, as if to comfort me.

Lucien: Besides, in the face of the current situation, I have some small ways to resolve it.

The scorching sun mercilessly radiates its heat, and the humid sensation fills the hot air.

Seeing his unwavering confidence and knowing that he has always been able to make accurate judgments in such situations, I find peace in my heart as well.

MC: Can Professor Lucien also conjure up a functioning air conditioner?

Lucien: It's just some practical tricks, nothing more.

As his words fall, I feel a sense of clarity in the surrounding air. A cool and refreshing sensation envelops my body.

I blink in surprise, colliding with Lucien's delighted gaze.

MC: How is this possible…

Before I can finish my sentence, the sound of falling tiny water droplets reaches my ears.

I lower my head and see numerous water droplets slowly forming on the dry ground. Following their trajectory upward, I finally notice the "trick" he mentioned—

Thin, transparent ice shards stealthily create a barrier, silently and precisely separating the scorching heat from our surroundings. The barrier hovers just a few centimeters away from our bodies.

The cool summer breeze playfully brushes against his forehead, lifting his hair in a brisk arc.

Lucien even effortlessly flicks his fingertips, and a few tiny ice flowers appear in front of me, sparkling with radiant light in the sunshine.

MC: Professor Lucien can even secretly cool himself down!

MC: But…

I glance at the "meandering" trail of water behind us and can't help but playfully squeeze his palm, unable to contain my amusement.

MC: What should we do if everyone notices a puddle of water on the podium after class?

After a moment of contemplation, Lucien's serious gaze hides a hint of amusement.

Lucien: Then I'll have to honestly tell everyone that Professor Lucien has "melted”.

[Part 2]

As the bell rings, I embark on the journey of solo exploration.

The campus during the summer break is devoid of many people, and the occasional scattered figures do not disturb this tranquility.

Walking along the unfamiliar path, the sound of cicadas fills the air, and traces of distant memories seep through the lush foliage along with the sunlight.

Not far from the dormitory entrance, a young boy waits under a tree, eagerly gazing at the dormitory lobby.

A girl angrily shouts at her screen, "I don't believe I won't be able to get a seat in the library today!" as she hurriedly passes by me.

Everything seems to be adorned with a gentle summer filter. I smile and allow myself to sink into this serene atmosphere.

The stifling heat gradually envelops my mind and a thin layer of sweat forms on my back. I ultimately decide to wait for Lucien in the teaching building where he has his class.

The shaded corridor offers no respite from the heat, and from a slightly ajar back door of a classroom, I can faintly hear a familiar voice.

I snicker and purse my lips, finding an empty classroom on the same floor and casually sitting down there.

Perhaps due to the excessive heat, my brain feels heavy and sluggish, and the drowsiness creeps in.

MC: Why isn't your class over yet…

I yawn, propping up my head, and watch the chubby clouds lazily drifting across the sky outside.

I suddenly have a feeling as if I'm in college, waiting for my boyfriend from a different department to finish his class.

MC: But I guess he must have more classes than me, right?

MC: We probably won't be able to take elective courses together either…

As I mumbled to myself, I imagined what it would be like to have Lucien sitting next to me, taking notes.

He would probably listen attentively, but still notice my stolen glances towards him.

MC: No, geniuses don't need to take notes…

MC: Then he must be able to help me with my assignments... By that time, he would probably already be a graduate student…

The bothersome heat that was disturbing my mind just moments ago seems to have faded away unnoticed as if the image of Lucien in my mind is helping me cool down.

I can't help but smile as if because of him, even the waiting becomes joyful.

??(Lucien): Did I miss something interesting?

A voice with a playful tone interrupts my thoughts. I pause for a moment and realize that Lucien is leaning against the door, smiling at me.

MC: You are done with your class!

I instantly wake up and run happily towards him.

MC: Are you tired? Or do you feel hot?

Lucien: Compared to me, you appear to be in hotter condition.

He reaches out his hand, enveloping it with refreshing coldness, and gently caresses my cheek.

I instinctively let out a contented sigh and couldn't resist hugging him. The pleasant sensation of the cold instantly dispels all the summer heat, leaving nothing but boundless comfort.

MC: Wow, it feels so much better now~ I'm not worried about you anymore.

MC: I finally experienced the feeling of seeking refuge in an igloo to escape the intense heat.

A muffled laughter resonates from his chest and reaches my ears. Lucien hugs me even tighter, affectionately pressing his cheek against mine.

Lucien: I don't expect the ninety minutes to feel so long either.

Lucien: But from what I observed just now, this waiting time didn't seem to bore you too much.

MC: Because it's you I'm waiting for.

I couldn't help but recall the vivid imagination that was swirling in my mind just moments ago. I turn my face to the side and smile as I look at him.

MC: Lucien, did you graduate from college at around the age of 20?

Lucien: Although I'm not sure why you're asking this out of the blue, I attended my college graduation ceremony at the age of 15 and obtained my doctoral degree by the age of 20.

MC: ….

MC: So, does that mean while I haven't even finished college, you've already completed your doctoral degree?!

I look at the person in front of me, and in an instant, all the bubbles of fantasy I had just moments ago vanish into thin air.

Lucien: Hmm, what's wrong?

MC: ...I was just imagining scenarios where I could audit your classes and take elective courses together with you.

MC: I never expected reality to be even more magical…

Perhaps my expression of shock was too evident, as it caused his lips to curve into a more pleasant arc.

Lucien: Besides those, what else were you thinking about?

MC: Oh, it's nothing really.

Thinking about those fantasies that aren't suitable to be spoken aloud, I cross my arms and pretend to avert my gaze with a serious expression.

Lucien: If it were me, I would probably indulge in even more outrageous "imaginations".

I raise my head puzzlingly, sinking into his comfortable warmth, and my entire body relaxes.

Lucien: I would imagine... how you would dress and sit next to me, and the kind of gaze you would use to look at me;

Lucien: If I were to solve a difficult problem for you, would it make you show a more radiant smile than usual?

Lucien: If we were to go to the library together, I might not be able to concentrate on reading but instead think about how to make this classmate beside me pay more attention to me;

Lucien: And... bring you to the self-study room that I usually have all to myself, like this.

A gentle and tender peck lands on my cheek, accompanied by the soft whisper of his voice. His words, coupled with the touch of his lips near mine, send my thoughts soaring and dancing along with those words.

Lucien: Embracing you.

Unfulfilled yearning delicately envelops us, lingering between our lips and teeth, filled with tender nostalgia.

With each separation, the reluctance to part grows stronger, craving for more than what fleeting imagination can offer.

Lucien's hand wraps around my waist, his fingertips slowly slipping into the gaps between my left hand's fingers, while his other hand rests against the back of my head.

The summer that's isolated from the outside world transforms into a scorching breath of fiery passion, intensifying as our tongues entwine.

Lucien: But I think... This is not the most outrageous part yet.

The ice seems to melt even faster, and his voice becomes moist, drenching me along with it.

The faint sound of footsteps intermittently tugs at my nerves, yet he swiftly engulfs me in even deeper waves.

The classroom seems to continuously shrink, transforming into the small self-study room within his words, allowing us to explore the secret mysteries of the world clandestinely.

(to explore the secret mysteries of the world is their euphemism for exploring each other-)

??: Ha, look who I meet here.

Suddenly, a lively yet aged voice cuts through and intrudes into my hazy consciousness.

I immediately take a big step back, and after a brief moment of surprise, Lucien gathers himself, tidying up the confusion and disarray on his face and breath. He pulls me closer, positioning me behind him.

At the door stands a spirited and sharp-looking elderly man dressed impeccably in a tailored suit. Next to him is a rather capable-looking young man.

The old man meticulously combs his silver-white hair, and his right-hand rests on a dark brown suit jacket. He raises a gentle smile in our direction.

Beside me, Lucien recognizes that person and slightly raises his eyebrows.

Lucien: Dr. Lawson? Never thought I'd meet you here someday.

His slender eyes curve gently, with a touch of nostalgia in his tone.

Dr. Lawson: How's everything going? Well, I do hear you a lot though.

Dr. Lawson: I just recommended your work as references to my graduates about… a week ago I guess.

Lucien: My honor.

Lucien: And congratulations on your newly published article.

I secretly observe their familiar conversation from behind him, and at this moment, Lucien appears particularly obedient.

Seemingly aware of my gaze, he naturally tucks my slightly disheveled hair behind my ear and politely raises his hand in greeting the old man.

Lucien: This is Dr. Lawson, my professor who guided me during my graduate and doctoral studies.

Dr. Lawson also exchanged a few words with the young person beside him. From their gestures, it seemed like he was introducing himself.

The young person displayed a look of realization and took a step forward to shake hands with Lucien.

Young man: Hello, Professor Lucien. I've long admired your reputation. I am Dr. Yang, the accompanying translator for this trip.

Lucien: Hello, thank you for taking care of Dr. Lawson during this trip.

With the translator present, I can somewhat keep up with the conversations between Lucien and Dr. Lawson.

Lucien: When I saw your name on the promotional brochure, I thought it would be just a video lecture. I didn't expect you to be here in person as well.

Dr. Lawson: It always brings me greater joy to see my students in person.

Dr. Lawson: If you have the time, would you also like to come? Even though it's all content you already know.

Dr. Lawson: Of course, if you're willing, you can also bring your partner along.

Dr. Lawson raises his eyes with great interest, his gaze sweeping over Lucien and me.

However, this invitation makes Lucien hesitate slightly as he purses his lips.

I understand that he is considering our future itinerary. However, the joy he feels when meeting his former professor has already caught my attention before him.

MC: Lucien, can we go and listen? I also really want to know what kind of person our Great Professor Lucien was as a student.

[Part 3]

I naturally won't be able to understand Dr. Lawson's lecture.

We sit at the back of the classroom, several rows away from the summer camp students.

The professor on the podium delivers his lecture gracefully, displaying a serious yet elegant demeanor. Occasionally, he highlights key points on the slides using a red laser pointer.

His tone is calm but not dull. When discussing certain points, he even emphasizes them by adding a slight emphasis on a few occasions.

Although I am unfamiliar with the content, seeing the students deeply engrossed and occasionally laughing, it must be an incredibly captivating class.

I prop my hand against my head, but my peripheral vision sneakily glides to the side.

Lucien supports his chin, his gaze not fully focused on Dr. Lawson, wearing a contented expression that suggests he is in a good mood.

Rather than saying he is attending the lecture, it seems like he is immersed in the atmosphere.

At this moment, what do you see through your eyes?

I lean on the desk and gaze at him, feeling somewhat dreamy and lost in thought.

On the stage is his professor from his master's and doctoral years, while we sit together in the same classroom, listening to the lecture.

The coincidence is so beautiful, carving out a corner of unity in the otherwise unconnected realms of time and space, fulfilling my small dream.

I happily squint my eyes and can't help but curl up the corners of my mouth.

Lucien: Can I join you in your smile too?

His gaze still lingers on the blackboard, but his head tilts down, and his warm lips lightly brush against my earlobe as if it were an accidental touch.

MC: Professor Lucien, don't get distracted now.

MC: So, were you also not focused during your previous classes, secretly slipping away from the ocean of knowledge?

Lucien: Does it seem like I'm not fully immersed in it?

Lucien: Dr. Lawson is currently talking about the second experimental model on page ten of the handout.

He casually mentions it, and his fingertips naturally intertwine with mine at the same time.

Lucien: However, it's indeed my first time listening to a lecture like this.

Lucien: Perhaps this is what the feeling of "university" is like?

MC: Hmph, it sounds like the genius Professor Lucien didn't properly attend university before…

Before the unfinished banter can escape my lips, I suddenly freeze for a moment.

Completing university education at the age of 15 and obtaining a doctoral degree at 20... In such a short and youthful period of time, Lucien seems to have walked faster than anyone else.

Perhaps he always knew what he wanted, disregarding all the complicated things, and kept moving forward without losing sight of his goals.

He probably never wasted anything, efficiently managing not only his time but also himself.

My eyes are suddenly filled with the image of a calm young boy. He appears so content and absorbed in his pursuits, yet I can't help but want to reach out and hold his hand.

Lucien: What's wrong?

His face comes closer, overlapping with that distant face.

My fingertips gently caress his cheek, filled with indescribable affection and tenderness.

In his puzzled gaze, I lift my head and, in the split second when Dr. Lawson looks away, I quickly peck his cheek.

MC: Then let me give you a little more of this "feeling".

His deep pupils visibly contract for a moment, and the bright sunshine pours in, washing over us like a tidal wave.

Amidst a dazzling halo of light, seeing his rare moment of bewilderment, I seize the opportunity and give him another kiss while Dr. Lawson turns his head.

Lucien: It seems like I missed quite a lot.

His voice is filled with a sense of confusion, and he lowers his head as he sees the smile in my narrowed eyes.

Suddenly, I feel a faint gaze and instinctively turn my face, and Lucien also follows my gaze, shifting his attention along with me-

Dr. Lawson looks at us from afar, raising his eyebrows.

Noticing our gaze, he purses his lips and squints his eyes slightly, his gaze taking on a more scrutinizing look.

But that's all there is to it.

The next second, Dr. Lawson shrugs and continues to focus on his lecture slides.

And my rationality immediately kicks in, realizing what I have just done. My face flushes with embarrassment.

But Lucien seems to be in a better mood now. He leans on the desk and looks at me with a playful smile.

Lucien: This class turned out to be even better than I expected.

The sweltering heat silently engulfs the world, and halfway through the class, I notice tiny beads of sweat forming on Dr. Lawson's temples.

Lucien raises his gaze for just a moment before lowering his head again, gently caressing my fingers, lost in his own thoughts.

Is it okay for the lecture to continue like this?

I blink my eyes, considering that Lucien would probably be more aware of the situation than me, so I refrain from asking the question out loud.

Meanwhile, the person on the stage seems completely unaffected by the unfavorable circumstances and continues to guide the students in understanding one key point after another.

However, after some time, the sweat beads that were previously rolling down slowly disappear. The doctor's flushed cheeks, which were red due to the heat, return to their normal color.

In that instant, I knew who was behind this change.

Perhaps worried about being discovered, the layer of ice around the doctor must have gradually formed, subtly lowering the temperature less noticeably.

I purse my lips and lean in close to his ear, speaking softly.

MC: Uh oh, there will be a puddle of water at the doctor's feet soon.

Lucien: In this case, it should be considered a normal occurrence.

Lucien smiles calmly, even looking at his teacher with a hint of curiosity and interest.

Lucien: With the weather being so hot, Dr. Lawson has also honestly "melted" away.

For the next two days, our itinerary was quite simple.

While Lucien attended his classes, I would wander around and explore other places until he finished, and then we would attend the lectures together.

On the third day, the school's electricity was finally repaired, and Lucien no longer had to rely on Evol every day.

MC: Why do I feel like I'm becoming more and more like a girlfriend accompanying her boyfriend to class during summer break in college?

In the evening, Lucien and I walk together along the path, waiting for the time when Dr. Lawson's class begins.

With curved eyes and a hint of a smile at the corners of his mouth, he can't hide his happiness.

Lucien: If you want, I would be more than happy to help you join the classroom.

MC: Please spare me, as I'm afraid I won't be able to fully appreciate the mysteries of neuroscience.

Just imagining those complex model data gives me a headache. I quickly wave my hand to decline his offer.

MC: But if there were any group assignments, I would definitely team up with you, the "academic god."

MC: With you around, I'm sure we won't have to worry about anything.

MC: People who get to do group assignments with you in college must be very fortunate indeed…

Lucien: I'm not quite sure if they're fortunate or not.

He squints his eyes, seemingly pondering for a moment.

Lucien: I don't have a lot of group assignments to participate in, and most of the time I choose to complete all the work by myself.

Lucien: This way, I won't waste time, and often it actually allows me to have more free time to do other things.

His voice is gentle, blending into the summer breeze.

MC: Will you miss that time?

Lucien: It was just a period of time that had to be experienced, nothing more.

It felt as if countless days and nights of solitude were spent in such a matter-of-course manner, making the illustrious title of "genius" seem so weightless.

Lucien: But now I enjoy wasting time like this with you.

Lucien: Going for a walk, or just having a chat, or perhaps... without needing to say anything at all.

I freeze for a moment, gazing into his ink-like eyes.

Lucien: Sometimes you make the time go faster, and sometimes you make it go slower... It's like everything has a different meaning now.

MC: That’s not good, the truth and mysteries waiting to be explored by Professor Lucien will protest because of being neglected.

Lucien: I just want to explore the one that interests me the most.

I couldn't help but laugh and playfully pinch his nose.

MC: It's okay, no matter which one you want to explore, I'll be there with you.

The oil-painting-like sunset cast its hues behind him as if he himself was captivating brush strokes carefully painted by God.

The similar silhouettes stretch long, blending into the warm hues of the twilight.

The sound of the bell rings, and reluctantly, I peck his lips again and take his hand.

MC: Let's go, it's time for class...

Before I could finish my sentence, a force pulled me into his embrace.

He simply hugs me without saying a word, his chin resting on top of my head.

MC: We'll be late.

Lucien: (whispers clingily) But... I don't want to go.

The evening breeze gently enveloped us, capturing the warmth of the summer within an embrace akin to a passionate kiss.

Lucien: I don't think the professor would mind if I miss one foundational class.

Lucien: (whisper) It feels like such a waste not to spend this beautiful night together with you.

[Part 4]

Dr. Lawson: Farewell, Dr. Lucien.

Dr. Lawson: Looking forward to hearing you from journal soon.

Lucien: I'll try my best.

Then, Lucien softly says a few more words. The sentence is short, yet carries a profound significance.

Lucien: Take care.

As Dr. Lawson sits with a smile in the backseat of the car and gradually disappears from sight, Lucien takes my hand and eagerly walks in the opposite direction.

Lucien: It's time to officially embark on the summer that only belongs to us.

MC: I thought you've been enjoying these past few days.

Lucien: Enjoying it is one thing, but sharing it exclusively with you is another.

Following the plan we had made earlier, Lucien and I head to the seaside guesthouse to check in as arranged.

We swiftly pack our summer essentials and set off to chase the radiant beauty of the summer without wasting any time.

The rising temperature does not deter our steps. With the ocean tides surging, it feels as if the world has gathered all its brilliance here, creating an atmosphere of comfort and freedom.

The beach remains lively in the afternoon, with the restless beats and melodies dancing along with the shimmering waves not far away. People sing songs and dance freely, enjoying themselves to the fullest.

I maneuver through the crowd, holding two glasses of smoothies, and when I return to the shade, I notice that Lucien seems to be in a daze.

MC: Is it too noisy here? Shall we go somewhere else for a while?

He blinks slowly and offers me a reassuring smile.

Lucien: It's alright, maybe it's just too hot.

MC: Wow! Our Professor Lucien won't "melt" here, right?

He seems amused by my teasing and takes one of the smoothies. He gently places my palm against the side of his face.

Lucien: Well then, Miss, you'll be responsible for freezing me back properly.

It seems that Lucien always maintains that confident and composed demeanor, effortlessly handling any unexpected situations that arise.

Upon hearing his response, I trust in him without a doubt. However, soon…

I start to regret the judgment I made.

There is no emotion on Lucien's face as large beads of sweat occasionally roll down from his temples. His eyes gaze straight ahead, focused on the path ahead.

MC: Lucien? Lucien!

It's only when I wave my hand in front of his eyes that he blinks and turns his head, seemingly coming back to his senses.

Lucien: ...Hmm? Sorry, I didn't hear what you were saying just now.

MC: What's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?

After a moment, my words seem to reach his ears in fragments, and he slowly opens his mouth to respond.

Lucien: It's alright, I'm just feeling a bit hot.

Lucien: How about you? Do you need to take a break?

His fingertips brush against the side of my face, carrying a damp and slightly warm sensation.

I suddenly realize what's going on and quickly touch his forehead—different from steaming heat of the environment, a hot temperature emanates through my palm.

Upon closer inspection, I notice that his neck is also covered in beads of sweat, trickling down into the inner part of his shirt.

I quickly pull him to a shaded area, and to my surprise, he doesn't resist at all, obediently standing in front of me.

MC: Lucien, I feel like something's not right with you... Are you experiencing heatstroke?

Lucien: I won't get heatstroke.

Lucien denies it without batting an eye. Clean, precise, and straightforward, it's like an instinctive response after a mental shutdown.

MC: ....Why won't you get heatstroke?

Lucien: Because I don't meet the conditions for heatstroke. Heatstroke occurs under high temperatures, high humidity, lack of ventilation, or intense heat radiation, combined with prolonged engagement in strenuous activities that lead to an increase in body heat.

MC: …..

Feeling increasingly uneasy, I refrain from saying anything more and immediately hail a taxi, bringing him back to the guesthouse.

Lucien: I don't think the current situation is enough to disrupt our plans. I understand the state of my body very well….

MC: Dizziness, body heat, sweating... Your current symptoms are exactly like those of heatstroke.

I interrupt him without hesitation, firmly poking his flushed cheek.

MC: You've been working non-stop before, and attending classes in such a hot place. Plus, you've been using Evol for an extended period of time.

MC: Your body must be exhausted from all the work, and with today's temperature reaching nearly 40 degrees, it's highly likely that you accidentally suffered from heatstroke.

I quickly turn on the air conditioning in the room, help him change into a fresh set of clothes, and gently guide him to lie down on the bed. Then, I hurriedly fetch a glass of water and encourage him to drink it slowly.

MC: Even if it's not heatstroke, it's still good to take a rest. We can afford to take some time off and enjoy ourselves, right?

Finally, it seems like my words have "registered" in his mind, and Lucien slowly becomes aware of the abnormalities in his body.

He lies flat on the bed, furrowing his brow tightly, displaying a rare expression of displeasure.

Seeing him obediently lying down, I open the food delivery app on my way to boil water and place an order for some medications and alcohol.

Given the intense heat, it seems that many people have experienced heatstroke. The delivery platform even has shortage notifications, and it would take nearly half a day for the order to be delivered.

I sigh with concern and proceed to purchase some physical cooling sprays online.

After I set the hot water on the windowsill to cool, I return to the bedroom only to find Lucien sitting up again.

Lucien: I have already rested enough.

Lucien: I have a sufficient understanding of my own physiological condition.

His ink-like eyes still appear slightly unfocused, but he wears a resolute expression as if our brief departure has become irrefutable proof of something.

Lucien: Essentially, my condition hasn't reached a level that would affect our plan.

Lucien: While there may be another opportunity to visit the destinations we planned for, the efficiency would be too low. With the same amount of time, we can explore other places.

Lucien: In addition, it would also alleviate your worries and allow us to continue enjoying our trip happily.

MC: ….

Hearing his rigid response, I also feel a bit annoyed.

It's rare for me to see Lucien lose control like this.

MC: Heatstroke is not something to be embarrassed about. What are you resisting?

Lucien: I'm just stating the facts.

Lucien: But if you don't want to go out, we can do something else.

His usual calm tone is wrapped in a little bit of stubbornness, and with a determined momentum, he pulled me into a hot embrace.

MC: You need to lie down first…

My remaining words fail to form as they shatter in his overwhelming intrusion, wet and without restraint, relentlessly entangling.

He vigorously sweeps through my mouth, creating slick sounds.

His scorching breath, along with the rising body temperature, engulfs everything, burning every nerve ending and instantly dissolving all of my rationality.

I tremble involuntarily, feeling as though I'm standing on a floating iceberg, desperately clinging to him in the midst of the surging tide.

The sticky fabric of our clothes binds our closely pressed skin even more intimately, eliciting waves of indulgent shivers with each rubbing.

I lose myself in a daze, attempting to gather some consciousness by turning to the side, but I'm immediately turned over and pressed against the bed, with both of my hands firmly held in the grip of his strong and large hand.

Lucien: (whisper) Look... you're sweating a lot now too.

Lucien: Just like me…

His scorching fingertips caress my back, and I find myself unable to utter a single word of refutation as it gets consumed by his dense breath, leaving only a shallow moan to escape.

Lucien: You feel hot too, don't you?

Lucien: (whisper) Do you want some water?

The air conditioner seems to have stopped, allowing our rapid breaths to intertwine and steadily raise the temperature. Slowly but powerfully, it infiltrates every limb and bone of mine.

Lucien: Don't worry about things that don't need your concern... Just focus on feeling me.

His voice is hoarse, and the corners of his eyes are tinged with seductive crimson.

The scorching heat blankets my back, while delicate kisses trace a path from the nape of my neck downwards. I can't see Lucien's face, but I can vividly feel every blazing fireworks he ignites-

-setting the world ablaze, burning me to the very end.

(yes it’s ‘that’ kind of fireworks)

In the darkness, I can only hear his voice seeping through the kisses drenched with longing and desire.

Lucien: (with slight gasps at the end) I still have the energy to accompany you to do more things.

[Part 5- Intertwined Emotions]

The night grows late, and everything remains quiet. The girl's steady and peaceful breathing blends into the moonlit scene.

Lucien gazes fixedly at the girl in his arms, instinctively tightening his arms around her again.

The real and familiar sensation of touch and body warmth pressed against him, soothing and comforting, causing him to instinctively emit a contented sigh.

He feels as if he is still floating.

A swaying sensation ripples throughout his body, his brain not responding to commands, causing a sluggish and delayed state that leaves him feeling somewhat annoyed.

He doesn't like this feeling.

Lucien: ….

He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, and when he opens his eyes again, there is a hint of sobriety that’s maintained by self-control in his gaze.

The next moment, Lucien gets up and walks towards the bathroom. A gentle stream of water flows  slowly from the faucet, and he reaches out to catch it, pressing it against his still warm cheeks.

After repeating the motion several times, he finally places both hands on the sink, leaning towards the mirror.

Perhaps due to the lighting, his own complexion appears slightly pale and his eyes look bloodshot. It's as if he has been drenched by seawater…

-He appears in a complete mess.

The world spins with intense dizziness. He takes another deep breath, making sure his feet are firmly planted on the ground before slowly stepping out of the bathroom.

Faint knocking sounds at the door, causing him to furrow his brow. As he opens the door, he finds a delivery person standing outside.

He can't quite make out what the person says, but instinctively takes the item handed to him and closes the door—

—It seems to be something the girl bought for him.

He slowly closes his eyes and softly takes out a bottle of medicine from the bag, examining it with his blurred vision under the dim light.

Lucien: ….

When he sees that the applicable symptoms almost match his own, he stands there in a daze for a while.

Lucien: ...Why do I get heatstroke?

He tries to make sense of something, but the overwhelming emotions swallowed by the sea surge over him once again.

Some unfamiliar yet gentle sensations seem to envelop him, and in the blurry world, he can hear MC's steady breath clearly.

They seem to silence everything.

[the sensations are the feeling of being safe but he doesn’t know yet :”]

He doesn't think anymore, he simply instinctively puts the medicine back into the paper bag and lies back down beside her.

Just one sleep and everything will be all right.

Watching her tranquil sleeping expression, Lucien can't help but extend his fingertip, landing softly on her cheek, and gently stroking it.

Lucien: (softly) There won't be any unexpected situations like this tomorrow.

Lucien: I will continue to take leisurely walks with you by the seaside and accompany you to see the scenery you desire.

Lucien: Goodnight.

After he speaks in a barely audible voice, he hooks his hand around the girl's fingertips and closes his eyes heavily.

The next second, he feels as if he's caught in a vortex.

The girl pulls his hand and they dance together, splashing waves of silver and white.

Later, they run to the valley, up in the clouds, and in the depths of a secluded pool.

He can vividly feel the warmth of her embrace, the intimate words she whispered into his ear, and the scorching, moist sensation as their lips meet.

The world is terribly hot, yet she continues to accompany him, melting together with him in every corner.

After their countless collisions, a brilliant beam of light suddenly casts onto his retina.

(another poetic euphemism-)

Even though he doesn't open his eyes, he can still see it—a brilliant sunlit sky against a backdrop of blue.

Beneath the brilliant sun, the girl wears a sun hat and her favorite floral dress, happily waving at him with a smile.

Although he can't hear the sound clearly, he can still discern the girl's lip movements with clarity.

MC: Lucien, look over here! It's so beautiful—

Lucien: I think the most beautiful scenery is already right in front of me.

Without hesitation, he takes a step forward and walks towards the girl, then hugs her in his arms.

And just like countless ordinary moments in the past, he lowers his head and kisses her.

Indeed, those uncomfortable feelings were all illusions, or rather, it was a very brief and unpleasant bad dream.

At this very moment, he is still doing what he should do today, according to his heart's desire….

—Embracing her.

—And falling in love with her.

[can i say that this part is just so beautifully written sob sob]

[Part 5]

Lucien has suffered from complete heatstroke.

I sigh wordlessly, looking at the man who is deeply asleep on the bed, and I anxiously wipe his sweat-drenched forehead and cheeks with an alcohol pad.

MC: Lucien, you big fool.

I couldn't help but mutter angrily at him, and I drew a small pig nose on his forehead with an alcohol pad.

MC: Disobedient big fool…

I rarely see Lucien in such a weak state. He has always been poised and composed. Even when tired, he would hide it deeply, as if he never experiences those negative states.

Although he often shows vulnerability to me, I am well aware that it is just another facet of his gentle nature.

He seems to always stand firmly, calmly observing everything.

Come to think of it, this time his heatstroke situation is particularly unusual.

I can't resist sighing again, but in the next moment, my gaze crashes into eyes filled with a drowsy and profound gaze.

I don't know when he opens his eyes, but he doesn't say a word. He just looks at me quietly and serenely.

MC: Are you awake? Do you want to have some water?

Lucien: ....Want to drink.

(t/n: In CN Lucien talks in simple and short 2-3 words sentence, which is actually really cute if not for the fact that it’s caused by his heatstroke)

I immediately pick up the warmed-up glass of water and, seeing him dizzily sit up, I support his shoulder and bring it to his lips.

MC: While you were sleeping, I called a doctor from a nearby clinic to come and check on you.

MC: He said the problem isn't too serious, and you just need to rest well for the next few days.

The severe dizziness seems to still be afflicting him, despite my efforts to speak softly and slow down my speech, it takes a considerable amount of time for my words to reach his ears.

He doesn't say anything, just nods obediently, as if in some kind of "offline mode."

MC: Do you want to have some porridge?

Lucien: ...Not really.

MC: How about taking a nap again? By the time you wake up, you should have enough strength to eat something.

Lucien: …Um, okay.

Seeing him weakly lie back down, I open the app and consider whether to simply buy some millet and vegetables. Takeout food tends to be greasy, and I feel like he wouldn't want to eat it even more.

I was lost in my thoughts until I suddenly realized that there is a gaze fixed on me.

I instinctively turn my head and find Lucien lying on the bed, silently gazing at me. His gaze is serene as if there are emotions silently surging within him.

MC: What's wrong? Can't sleep? Are you feeling dizzy?

He remains silent, simply gazing at me intently.

Feeling a bit anxious, I take out an alcohol wipe and gently wipe his face and arms, trying to make him as comfortable as possible.

MC: Don't overthink it either, let your brain rest and relax.

MC: Trust me and let go of your worries. I'll take care of "freezing" you back properly. So, there's nothing to worry about.

[she’s mimicking his joke from earlier, when he asks her to be responsible for freezing him back :’]

I gently kiss his forehead and eyes, tenderly caressing his still slightly hot cheeks.

MC: Don't worry about anything.

Lucien exhales softly, his gaze distant yet incredibly earnest as he continues to stare attentively.

After a while, he raises his hand and gently hugs me.

Lucien: (chuckles and says quietly)...come to my side.

I yield to his strength and find myself enveloped in his embrace.

Lucien: I need you here.

—------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Perhaps the accumulated exhaustion of many days suddenly overwhelmed him. In the following days, Lucien remained in a drowsy and lethargic state, but the signs of heatstroke noticeably diminished.

At times, he still sleeps restlessly, as if subconsciously worrying about something. However, when he sees me, he slowly exhales as if finding solace-

-and he extends his arm towards me, inviting me to join him in deep slumber.

The evening by the seaside has cooled down considerably, with the sea breeze carrying a gentle salty scent along with the rolling waves.

Having been confined indoors for too long, Lucien takes advantage of the current coolness and lies down on the soft couch on the terrace.

The evening glow spills like ink across the horizon, blending with the azure hues to create a hazy halo of warmth.

The twinkling lights shimmer and complement the distant stars, as the flickering lights gently envelop him, exuding a warm and soothing glow, akin to polished jade.

Separated by the glass, I feel the comforting tranquility surrounding me as well.

He raises his gaze and looks over amid a gentle golden glow.

There is no particular emotion in his eyes, and the act of gazing becomes meaningful in itself, like another form of silent and intimate touch.

MC: What's the matter, my great professor?

I stick my head out from behind the door with a smile and shake a glass of water at him.

MC: Do you want some water? Or are you hungry?

This overly familiar conversation has been repeated many times in these past few days. He squints his eyes, lazily tilting his head at me.

Lucien: MC, I think I'm feeling a bit uncomfortable.

MC: Hm? Uncomfortable?

Startled, I quickly move closer to him and touch his forehead and cheeks.

MC: The temperature seems okay. Are you feeling dizzy again?

In response, he takes hold of my hands and gently places them on his face, exhaling with a sense of relief.

Lucien: (jokingly as he says the same thing as MC said earlier in this MQ) Finally experienced the feeling of seeking refuge in an igloo to escape the intense heat.

MC: …Pfft.

Upon hearing this familiar exclamation coming from his mouth, I can't hold back and burst into laughter.

Lucien: I've noticed that your smile seems to make me even more comfortable.

He smoothly pulled me into his embrace, shifting his body to allow us to lie down together on the soft couch. He wrapped my hand around his body.

The sound of the tide and his steady heartbeat resonate in my ears, creating a peaceful echo.

MC: If you weren't so stubborn, you could have been comfortable much earlier.

I can't help scratching his back with my fingertips, feeling a sense of helplessness and frustration when I think about his behavior at that time.

MC: How did I not know before that Professor Lucien had such a stubborn side?

Lucien: Because I believed that I shouldn't have gotten heatstroke.

MC: There's no such thing as "should" or "shouldn't" when it comes to sudden discomfort in the body. It's a normal thing to happen.

He remains silent for a moment, only speaking after a long while.

Lucien: I should have taken proper precautions and measures to prevent and avoid the accident from happening so that the original plan could proceed smoothly.

Lucien: This is something that could have been avoided.

Lucien: ...Why did it happen?

He murmured a question, but that question doesn't seem to be directed toward me.

During his isolated years, he probably avoided numerous troubles and trivial matters in this way multiple times.

But when self-preservation becomes etched in one's marrow and melds into an instinct, it feels a bit lonely.

I don't know what to say, so I just softly kiss his lips with tender affection.

MC: You're right, we should indeed try our best to avoid getting sick, but it’s okay even if we do get sick.

MC: Because I'll be by your side.

MC: When you're sick, just rest well, and when you're tired, you can lean on my shoulder.

MC: You can live like this, taking it for granted.

In his eyes, there seemed to be a surging tide, and the darkening night in the distance seemed to slowly seep into them.

After a long while, he let out a deep sigh and gently traces my face with his fingertips.

Lucien: So... it's because you're here.

[because he subconsciously feels safe enough that he can show her his vulnerable side :”]

MC: Huh? Of course, I'm right here.

I rub against his warm fingertips, unable to resist the desire to hold him even tighter.

MC: Even when you're feeling troubled, I'll still be by your side.

MC: I will tell you that being sick is not just a troublesome matter, but you will also receive a lot of care and concern.

MC: Even if our plan gets disrupted, we will still have plenty of time to come back and complete it.

I know you've been walking alone for too long, but as long as you lower your head, you will see my hand tightly holding onto yours.

Lucien: If... what I want is more than just care?

MC: I'll give you whatever you want.

Almost as if it slipped out involuntarily, I couldn't help but burst into a giggle.

But as he is about to speak, I notice that the lingering warmth of the summer night continues to make him sweat a little, beads of sweat forming on his forehead.

My body moves faster than my mind, I run to the living room and grab the chilled bottled water from the refrigerator and the cooling spray on the dining table.

MC: Even though you're already feeling much better, it's still important to be more cautious.

I hand him the bottled water, vigorously shake the cooling spray, and gently spray it onto his body.

Lucien: …

MC: Is it too cold?

Lucien: It's okay, but I still want... to feel even more comfortable.

Lucien leans the bottled water against his face, partially propping himself up, his gaze locked on me.

I'm not sure why I feel a bit nervous under his intense gaze, but I still make an effort to suppress my thoughts. I reach out my hand and gently spread the foam-like gel on his body.

I feel the tautness of his muscles beneath my fingertips, and his damp skin slightly rises and falls in my palm, emanating a moist sensation.

Lucien: (whisper) ...Here, I also want to be touched by you here.

His voice carries a seductive power, guiding my fingertips to caress his neck and chest, and gradually moving downwards.

The icy gel takes on a hint of warmth from his heated skin, making it difficult to distinguish whether it is his warmth or mine.

Lucien: And... Here, don't forget about here as well.

Lucien: It's also a bit uncomfortable here.

He covers my hand with his, placing it on the yet unexplored area. The scorching heat seeps through the thin fabric, causing me to instinctively inhale sharply.

(it’s implied that he guides her to his d-)

MC: You seem to be feeling hot…

Lucien: (hoarsely) I think it's probably unrelated to heatstroke.

MC: ....Can I believe that?

Lucien: Then how should I prove it this time?

Lucien's supressed noises seem to be suffused with warmth, causing me to feel somewhat parched and thirsty.

Droplets of sweat occasionally slide from his ear, slowly descending along his jawline and dripping onto his chest, merging with the remaining sweat, forming ambiguous curves.

Subtle gasps overflow from his throat and alluring blush spread across his face.

Lucien doesn't shift his gaze even for a moment, staring at me intently.

MC: You, um, just stay lying there.

Under such intense gaze, my voice trembles slightly, and my fingertips nervously fumble while stroking.

MC: You... don't keep looking at me like this.

Lucien: Why not?

MC: You make me distracted... and especially nervous.

I lick my dry lips, but I can't tear my gaze away even for a moment.

I see him smile gently.

Lucien: (whisper) You seem more like my summer.

He pulls me into his embrace, a mix of warmth and coolness enveloping me, causing me to instinctively shiver for a moment.

I nestle in the hollow of his shoulder, observing as his Adam's apple bobs up and down, and a droplet of sweat lands on my lips.

His breath surrounds me, overwhelming and all-encompassing. I may have escaped from his deep gaze, but I feel him even more intensely.

Lucien: Letting me make irrational judgments, leaving me dizzy and enthralled, making me forget everything…

Lucien: Allowing me to see this...real side of myself.

His voice, like sweat, glides into my ears. He firmly holds onto my wrist, mischievously sucking and kissing his way up from my earlobe.

As my consciousness gradually drifts away, the lingering sensation of gel feels slightly sticky. I can only instinctively follow his lead, stroking his increasingly heated skin.

Lucien: (hoarsely) Make me more comfortable in your own way.

[Part 6]

MC: The temperature seems to have risen again today. Are you sure you can handle it?

Lucien: Oh no, it seems like I'm turning into a glass doll in MC's eyes.

Lucien: If possible, I still hope you can trust my judgment a bit more.

He lazily sits on the sofa, yet his eyes remain full of interest.

Lucien: It's rare to come to the seaside, but until now, I haven't found an opportunity to go into the water with you.

Lucien: I always feel like something is missing.

With a hint of unspoken grievance in his words, I can't help but laugh and playfully pinch his nose.

MC: Do you really want to go into the water?

Lucien: Of course, I want to be with you. Is that not possible?

I know that he must still be considering my feelings, and my heart can't help but soften even more.

MC: But it's so hot at the beach.

Lucien: How about the pool next to our terrace? Does that meet your requirements?

Lucien: If it's too hot, we can quickly return to the house, and it will still fulfill my wish to go into the water.

MC: I see, so you had already planned this, didn't you?

He presents his case with sound reasoning and evidence, smiling as he stands up.

Lucien: I just thought, it would be perfect, isn't it?

MC: I can't argue with you, but if you feel uncomfortable at any point, be sure to let me know immediately, okay?

After receiving a nod of approval, he contentedly pecks my lips and walks over to the suitcase to retrieve the swimsuit.

MC: Do we really need to dress up so formally just to play at the pool?

(read: we can just skinny dip if it's just the two of us)

Lucien: We still have the whole afternoon.

(read: we still have a lot of time, we can skinny dip later-)

Lucien: And besides, I remember you spent a long time choosing a swimsuit for this trip as well.

Lucien: If we just leave without seeing it, it feels like there will be even more regrets for this summer.

(read: i just want to see you in the swimsuit)

His eyes and brows curve, as if he has returned to a state that I am most familiar with.

But I can also distinctly sense that something is different.

MC: Then I can't become the "culprit" of Professor Lucien's summer regrets.

MC: Wait for me here for a moment, okay?

The water in the pool is still a bit chilly. After thinking for a moment, I grab the hose and sprinkle some water in the shallow area to adjust the temperature.

Worried about Lucien experiencing a sudden change from the heat to a colder temperature, I cautiously decided to let him acclimate to the water temperature before getting in.

Meanwhile, "Mr. Former Patient" pays no attention and sits on the side, wearing a smile and appearing to be in a good mood.

I cup some water in my hands and sprinkle it over his body.

MC: Let your body adjust to the water temperature a bit more, okay?

Lucien: The temperature still feels a bit cold.

Upon hearing him say that, I hesitate for a moment, wondering if we should just turn back inside.

cue his beautiful 5th birthday bgm :”

But in the next second, a strong force pulls me downwards, and after a brief moment of surprise, I find myself falling into his arms.

The hose in my hand spins uncontrollably, splashing water that seems to wet both of us and everything around us.

I blink uncomfortably and shake my head to get rid of the water droplets on my forehead. When I raise my eyes again, I find the person in front of me still gazing at me with shining eyes.

Lucien: (chuckle) This is much better now.

MC: (unamused) Can you still play tricks like this?

Lucien: Didn't you say I could live more naturally and take things for granted?

He interlaces his fingers with mine, bringing us even closer together.

Lucien: If I were to say that I like it when you care about me when I'm sick, or when your eyes are filled by me, and when you think about me in everything... would you be unhappy?

Lucien: If I were to say that because of you, I allow myself to become slow-witted and greedy, would it be difficult for you?

Lucien: If I were to say that the most beautiful things appeared in my life because of something I never dared to do, or something that had long been forgotten by me…

Lucien: What kind of expression would you show me then?

Even though they are questions, they feel like declarations of love, with his deep voice mingling with the moist breath.

Lucien whispers softly, yet it's enough to make my heart tremble.

Lucien: Why do I crave your answer so much…

Lucien: And why do I believe that you can fulfill all my needs and wishes?

I don't know how to express my emotions, so I can only respond to him with love and tenderness.

This person, he's cunning and dangerous, yet distant and gentle, effortlessly captivates my entire heart and soul without even intending to.

But he is such a good person. Even if he is the only one in this world, whether he belongs to me or not, he is simply wonderful.

I can't help but sink in his ink-like eyes. He is so alive and real when he embraces me.

MC: ...Don't you know the answers to these questions?

Lucien: I know. And it seems like I've accepted this fact... faster than I had imagined.

Lucien: I allow myself to be by your side without any burdens.

Lucien: You make me feel safe.

It feels like a kind of sublime surrender, gently encroaching upon the depths of my soul.

It makes me surrender the same heart in return.

MC: Then, prove it to me one more time.

Lucien bends his left leg, instantly altering the support beneath me. I shift my weight, pressing my body against his thigh.

I instinctively lean back, but he doesn't offer much resistance. He simply lifts himself slightly and effortlessly bites onto the string at my chest.

Lucien: Are you trying to escape already?

With my hands firmly held by him, I can only watch as he leisurely pulls on the string, keeping my breath held as the front of my garment could easily come undone at any moment.

The warm breath continuously brushes against my skin, like a suggestive hint, arousing all my senses throughout my body.

In the close proximity of our gazes, there is still a hint of wilfulness and coquetry in his eyes, but the strength in his arms is irresistible.

The droplets of water from his hair fall onto my body, and the rising body temperature momentarily turn chill, causing me to shiver involuntarily.

As if unintentionally, Lucien raises his leg a little bit, and I slide down to the bottom, tightly pressed against him through the thin fabric.

I can even feel his muscles momentarily tense up. Unable to hold back, I let out a soft moan, which is rewarded with a rush of heated breath against my chest.

Everything becomes slippery and unbearable. I want to escape, but I'm completely powerless to do so.

After several failed attempts, the person in front of me finally seems to lose patience. His fingers hook onto the thin fabric, undoing it.

Before the coolness has a chance to gather, it is quickly dispersed by his heat.

The water rushing out of the hose forms trembling waves in the air, and we are like a drifting boat caught in them, on the verge of being capsized.

The hairpin at the back of my head almost falls as it is burdened by a heavy task, but Lucien catches it just in time.

(heavy task as in trying to stay in place as she ‘moves’ on his lap cough-)

The knot at my chest has already come undone, and the thin string sways and jumps between us, but my attention is snatched away by his kisses and breath.

Amidst the dense sound of water, my own voice gradually fades into the distance, only leaving the sound of his voice.

Lucien: I’m more than willing to gradually prove my every demand and desire for you.

[Lux’s rambling corner]

This MQ has NO RIGHT to be this good :""""""". From fulfilling a college romance dream to Lucien learning how to receive love and show weakness, it's just *sobs* so fucking good. Even without all the, yanno, I'd get this karma in a heartbeat even if it's expensive af to raise. Whether it's the art, new features, or the plot, I think it's worth the expensive price. This MQ in essence is about how Lucien, because of his 'abnormal' past has a hard time trusting others with his burdens and showing them his vulnerability, but through this MQ, he learns that since now he's no longer alone, he can share them with MC. I want to quickly talk about some highlight and plot of this MQ.

The first half starts with them kind of role-playing campus life. Little scenes like a feeling of having bf from a different department, or getting caught making out by his professor, or skipping class for yanno, they're really cute LOL. And yet, this seemingly cute part already laid the groundwork for what was about to come.

We get introduced to his professor Dr. Lawson, and I think the way Lucien interacts with him is an image of how he handles interpersonal relationships, he obviously cares (on this MQ, he did help the professor to cool down with his evol) but still put some distance and is indifferent. MC is the only exception, the only person that he allowed to get into his world. The way Lucien’s acts around MC puzzles Dr. Lawson who’s used to see him being serious in his study and indiferent around other people.

In this MQ, we also get glimpses of his college year. It’s... sad that he never really enjoy life before he meets her :”. He probably content with that kind of life but... can you really call that ‘living’? Which is why I’m glad that in this MQ he got a chance to know the ‘feels’ to be in college. To slow down and enjoy life instead of keep walking faster.

But when self-preservation becomes etched in one's marrow and melds into an instinct, it feels a bit lonely.

In the past, Lucien's survive and fight on his own. Unforeseen events are burdensome because he has had to endure them alone. Consequently, he instinctively tries to maintain control over everything, striving to prevent accidents and unexpected situations from occurring in the first place (the self-preservation that melds into instinct). This mindset, however, makes it harder for him to accept that there are things beyond his control. So when he experiences heatstroke, his first instinctive reaction is to deny it.

Besides that, there are also another reasons why he deny the heatstroke, he didn’t want to worry her and to spend time with her. I think for him, time is very precious because he knows very well how fleeting time can be, and maybe that is just me, but sometimes he gives off vibes as if he’s running out of time.

In his eyes, there seemed to be a surging tide, and the darkening night in the distance seemed to slowly seep into them.

After a long while, he let out a deep sigh and gently traces my face with his fingertips.

“So... it's because you're here.”

After the initial refusal, Lucien begins to carefully examine the situation. Gradually, he comes to a realization that one of the underlying reasons he "allowed" himself to fall sick this time is because he subconsciously feels safe in MC's presence. He instinctively trusts her with his vulnerabilities and needs, subconsciously recognizing that for once he doesn't have to shoulder the burden alone, because when two people care for each other, they can share the burden and support one another. This realization marks a significant shift in Lucien's perspective and his willingness to let someone else be there for him.

“If I were to say that I like it when you care about me when I'm sick, or when all you see is me, and when you think about me in every situation... would you be unhappy?”

“If I were to say that because of you, I allow myself to become slow-witted and greedy, would it be difficult for you?”

“If I were to say that the most beautiful things appeared in my life because of something I never dared to do, or something that had long been forgotten by me…”

“What kind of expression would you show me then?”

Even though they’re questions, they feel like declarations of love, with his deep voice mingling with the moist breath.

Lucien whispers softly, yet it's enough to make my heart tremble.

“Why do I crave your answer so much…”

“And why do I believe that you can fulfill all my needs and wishes?”

Something that he never dared to, or had long forgotten is to share his burden with other people and allow them to see his vulnerable side, or perhaps ‘becoming humans’. 'If I allowed myself to be weak in front of you, would you be okay with that? Is it okay for me to receive your love and care, taking it for granted?' He craves her answer, for the reassurance that it's okay for him to continue living like this.

“...Don't you know the answers to these questions?”

“I know. And it seems like I've accepted this fact... faster than I had imagined.”

“I allow myself to be by your side without any burdens.”

“You make me feel safe.”

It feels like a kind of sublime surrender, gently encroaching upon the depths of my soul.

It makes me surrender the same heart in return.

In fact, he already knows that the answer is a resounding yes. MC already assures him that she is willing to fulfill his every demand and desire. With this realization, he understands that he doesn't have to bear everything alone in front of her, his safe haven. So he allows himself to be by her side without burden. To trust her with his wishes, demands, and desires, to show her his most vulnerable side, it's him surrendering his whole heart to her and his declaration of love.

ALSO, a little bit out of topic but this date kind of reminds me of S2 ch 28 you know, the one where Lucien tried to hide the wound on his back from MC by stripping. There’s a quote that I like from the scene when MC found Lucien in bloody mess and being just as stubborn. “On that light gray road, I wanted to touch the heart that hadn’t been delivered.” And I think this MQ is how he finally delivers his heart to MC on its entirety, marking another growth and change from him.

[bastard-of-a-bog-being]

Wip but you know what

I was initially SO bothered by this guy not having a nose or eyebrows but the more I make art with him I’m just like “oh thank fuck the little guy doesn’t have many facial features this is way easier than making Poppy or whoever else”

[boypussydilf]

can i ask for your thoughts on keron society? i cannot stop thinking about this little nightmare planet

NIGHTMARE PLANET FOR REAL!!!!!! GOD!!!!!!!!

i work best with guiding/prompting questions so in the absence of those i will just ramble about shit until i cant recall any more of my thoughts so this might be strange and disjointed 👍

im obsessed w keron society so i keep an eye out for canon indications of What It’s Like so here’s my list of canon keron society trivia i remember off the top of my head: they have military training schools for elementary school age children. more specifically, they seem to have almost exclusively if not actually exclusively military training schools, i.e., i dont know if theres any mention of non-military schools of any kind and the way characters talk about it indicates that Military Training Schools are the schools everyone goes to by Default. In fact! overall! keron society seems to be built on the military, run by the military, and almost entirely comprised of the military. It’s not necessarily unusual for most of the keronians we meet to be part of the army since all of our Main Characters are part of the army and we’re therefore seeing the world From Their Perspective but uh. I think “join the army” is straight up the default, expected life path on keron and anything else is a noteworthy Deviation. My evidence: when putata first shows up giroro immediately assumes that he’s part of the army and asks for his rank even though like,. “being a keronian on earth” really does NOT automatically correlate to being there as part of the military, by that point we’ve at least met… Well, by that point i’m pretty sure we’ve at least met dororo’s mom, who as far as I can tell isn’t part of the keron army at least anymore, so you know………. Point IS: all signs I’ve noticed point to: Keron is founded on its military. The majority of its population is part of its military. It’s a military society. Fucked up right?

SPEAKING OF THE SHURARA CORPS. *GESTURES TO GIRURU AND DOKUKU* FUCKED UP RIGHT ??????????? I’ve already kind of forgotten the EXACT details as they go over them in the dokuku episode but context if any of my non-keroro followers are reading this heres how i remember it: (*resists the urge to go rewatch that part of the episode to double check*) giruru and dokuku are brothers, they were experimented on by, i believe, the fucking military again, and turned into A Liquid and A Gas respectively, and this is explicitly framed as “wow! fucked up! both of their lives were literally RUINED and they DO NOT WANT THIS”. HUH? Also what’s with dokuku being specifically called like the first gas keronian THEY MADE MORE? LIKE OF COURSE THEY MADE MORE BUT ??? UNETHICAL KERONIAN EXPERIMENTATION CANON.

SPEAKING OF THAT HEY WHATS UP WITH THE CLONING THING. No literally, what’s up with the cloning thing. The garuru platoon arc in the manga explains it pretty concisely, platoon commanders get their fucking DNA saved so that if they’re ever deemed unfit for command in any way by the Keron army they can be REPLACED WITH A CLONE OF THEMSELF and then DE-AGED TO A POINT IN THEIR LIFE LONG BEFORE THEY WERE CONSIDERED UNFIT TO COMMAND AND THE ORIGINAL IS PUT ASIDE AS PART OF THE RESERVE FORCES. The manga also says somewhere that keroro is the 315th. THE THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTEENTH K66 TYPE KERONIAN. HEY WHAT? GUYS ARE YOU GONNA ELABORATE ON THAT? NO? NO? I mean, maybe they do in some way. But probably not. I don’t know.

*falls to my knees and punches the floor* keron society is incredibly fucked up. I think literally everyone on that planet needs therapy. I also get the feeling that Planet “Every Single Person Born Here Is Going To Join Our Military While Still A Literal Child, Correct? Awesome!” does not have great resources for coping with any trauma or anything else induced by their military. I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s FASCINATING. Studying the nightmare planet as a means to study the main characters. Studying the nightmare planet and desperately wishing we had more information about it. I want to watch this shitshow up close and in action. It’s bad. It is bad. Fucked up planet from hell. Dear God.

anyway this post is already long and i have to go soon but here’s a lightning round list of theories vaguely related to “the keroro of “back then”” and the question of how the Fuck sergeant procrastination-and-french-fries has been genuinely trusted with an entire platoon and the invasion of an entire planet

keroro puts his energy towards things he finds Fun and at one point he found being part of the army Fun enough to give it his full and genuine attention and earn a reputation as someone competent and capable before he stopped finding it particularly Fun and stopped really giving a shit or trying very hard. (aka, Keroro is Space Neurodivergent, which is true anyway)

there’s an episode of the anime where keroro’s dad saves the whole platoon, completely unknowingly, by complete accident, while also drunk off his ass. What if he’s always like that. Competent on accident. What if Keroro is also like that. He did a bunch of cool shit, but like, just kind of stumbled into it without meaning to or really realizing what he was doing.

Nepotism

I’m out of time. I should probably put this post under a readmore but i. won’t <3

[wenjunting]

活着的时间 // the time we're alive (朱正廷 zhu zhengting) translation

**not a professional, everything from 1st prechorus onwards under cut, originally english lyrics are bolded, etc etc :-) enjoy

--

烟火点亮黑夜

fireworks light up the night

车流挤在这条街

cars stream and crowd on this street

打开车窗迎接这场雪

open the window to welcome the snow

你消失在那一天

the day you disappeared

拜托争气一点

please, try just a bit harder

别再去想那画面

to not think about that scene

你的手从此再也不能牵

from now on, i can’t ever hold your hand again

无心的玩笑 真实现

that careless joke really came true

yeah, 我经过我经过那甜品店

yeah, i passed by that dessert store

这一季新品位置很显眼

this season’s new offerings draw the eye from their place

我替你尝了尝味道很甜

i tried them for you, tried that sweet taste

担心眼泪凑热闹我闭上了眼

worrying that tears would join the commotion, i shut my eyes

我想起了你温柔的笑容

i thought of your warm smile

却为什么置身在黑暗中

but why is it immersed in the dark?

我推开世界想回到那天

i push away the world, think back to that day

无论如何不让你离开视线

no matter what, i wouldn’t let you out of my sight

两个世界还是无法靠近

these two worlds are still destined not to collide

钟声又一次响起粉碎我的梦境

the alarm rings again and smashes my dreams

我没有心碎不需要安慰

i’m not heartbroken, i don’t need to be comforted

快把我麻醉我不想要理会

put me under quickly, i don’t want to care

快让我沉睡我不想要回味

let me sink into sleep quickly, i don’t want to remember

红灯 tick, tack, tock 回归空白

red lights, tick, tack, tock, return to empty space

倒数 tick, tack, tock, I know you've been away for a long time

counting down, tick, tack, tock, I know you've been away for a long time

loving, loving, loving, we be going, going, going

才算我活着的时间

only this is truly the time i’m alive

we alive, alive (we alive, alive)

woah, woah, 什么在散落在我心中坠入了漩涡

woah, woah, something scattering, falling into a whirlpool in my heart

woah, woah, 有你的世界

woah, woah, a world with you

we alive, alive (we alive, alive)

人其实很难懂

people are hard to know

和朋友一起聚会或运动

meet up or work out with friends

我扬起嘴角为何更加心痛

why does it hurt more when i smile?

每分钟倔强的假装从容

in every moment, this stubborn, feigned calm

知道你的号码 早被注销

i know your phone number was cancelled long ago

我拨过去只想要 一个拥抱

i called, just wanting one embrace

知道了 什么都改变不了

i know that nothing can be changed anymore

但却不知道 怎么办才好

but i don’t know what else i can do

两个世界还是无法靠近

these two worlds are still destined not to collide

钟声又一次响起粉碎我的梦境

the alarm rings again and smashes my dreams

我没有心碎不需要安慰

i’m not heartbroken, i don’t need to be comforted

快把我麻醉我不想要理会

put me under quickly, i don’t want to care

快让我沉睡我不想要回味

let me sink into sleep quickly, i don’t want to remember

红灯 tick, tack, tock 回归空白

red lights, tick, tack, tock, return to empty space

倒数 tick, tack, tock, I know you've been away for a long time

counting down, tick, tack, tock, I know you've been away for a long time

loving, loving, loving, we be going, going, going

才算我活着的时间

only this is truly the time i’m alive

we alive, alive (we alive, alive)

woah, woah, 什么在散落在我心中坠入了漩涡

woah, woah, something scattering, falling into a whirlpool in my heart

woah, woah, 有你的世界

woah, woah, a world with you

we alive, alive (we alive, alive)

我睡在床底别把门和窗打开

i sleep under the bed; don’t open the door or the windows

让空气阳光花的香味在房间陪我

let the fresh air, the light, the flowers’ sweet scent keep me company in this room

在天空的阴霾直到现在怎么也散不开

up until now, despite everything, the haze in the sky hasn’t cleared

这茫茫的人海该去哪找到拥有你的未来

in the boundless crowds, where should i go to find the future where you are?

红灯 tick, tack, tock 回归空白

red lights, tick, tack, tock, return to empty space

倒数 tick, tack, tock, I know you've been away for a long time

counting down, tick, tack, tock, I know you've been away for a long time

loving, loving, loving, we be going, going, going

才算我活着的时间

only this is truly the time i’m alive

we alive, alive (we alive, alive)

woah, woah, 什么在散落在我心中坠入了漩涡

woah, woah, something scattering, falling into a whirlpool in my heart

woah, woah, 有你的世界

woah, woah, a world with you

we alive, alive (we alive, alive)