Astrea

LUCIEN

“I…” 

---auto voicemail message----

 //crying///

VICTOR

/crying/ 

----auto voicemail message-----

 “I must have been infected by you. If not, how could I have done such a thing that only dummies would do?... Give me some clues. I’ve sent you away, and I will definitely bring you back. If you can hear these words--- don’t be afraid. Regardless of what you face in other dimensions, you must wait for me.”

Surprisingly, the surroundings were quiet, and my hazy expression was reflected on the still water. I seemed to have passed through a long, dark tunnel and ended up in a peaceful lake. However, I almost couldn’t remember everything else that had happened. 

Someone seemed to be calling my name. I opened my mouth, but there was no sound.

There were layers of mist wrapped around me. My body seemed like it was being pushed around uncontrollably. As my world was spun around, I fell deeper into the water.

The sound of rain and shouting echoed in my ears; the shouts unwilling to cease.

I opened my eyes slowly, and subconsciously reached out my hand to block the ray of light from my sight. In the next second, a few familiar faces appeared in my sight. A pair of eyes gleamed, seemingly surprised.

Young boy: “You’re finally awake!” 

Young girl: “We’ve called for you so many times! Quick, call the dean!”

Upon hearing the girl, the young boy turned and left the classroom. I looked at the familiar faces of the noisy children around me, and I lost focus for a moment.  

MC: This is…

Young girl: “I knew it! You’ve forgotten about us! You clearly promised to come back and visit us…”

Young girl: “ Lucien even told us that you just didn’t have time…”

I hurriedly looked around me, like I was being struck. I looked at the organized tables and chairs, the snow-white ceiling, and the resentful girl in front of me. All of my memories were then put together. 

MC: “This place, could it be…”

MC: “Dean...”

Dean: “Are you alright?”

I turned to look at the dean who was rushing over to me, and I didn't dare to confirm my own assumptions. Looking at the dean and the children who were calling my name filled my heart a little.

Dean: “We haven’t met in a long time. What brings you here? Do you have new ideas for your show?”

The children gathered around me, calling my name. One of the children stood closely to the dean, seemingly full of expectations. 

Young girl: “Lucien’s girlfriend is here. Does this mean that Lucien will be here,too? He hasn’t visited to tell us stories in a long time…”

Young boy: “Didn’t you claim that you were Lucien’s girlfriend instead?”

The children started laughing, and the  girl blushed. She chased him around and tried to hit him. I felt a tingling feeling in my nose as I watched them. That’s right, this was the orphanage I remembered. They seemed to be a little older now, but it’s true; they were the children I visited because Lucien brought me to see them.

They remembered my name, and the things I did here. I remembered coming here with Lucien…

This was the world I experienced everything in;  my joy, doubts, and my countless emotions.

MC: “How have you been, recently?”

Even though I did my best to control myself, my voice was still shaking.

The dean was puzzled, but still nodded at me.

Dean: “What’s wrong? Why are you asking such a question so suddenly?”

I tried my best to take a deep breath.

MC: “Everything’s fine, I’m just… happy”

MC: “Happy that I returned.”

Even though the dean was confused, he looked at me, gave me a kind smile, and understood me in his own way.

Dean: “This place will always welcome you.”

Dean: “Come, let’s get up.”

I nodded, and the children rushed to reach out their hands, pulling me to a seat.

Dean: “When did you arrive at the orphanage? Why didn’t anyone tell us so? The children told me that you fell asleep here.” 

Dean: “Did anything happen?”

Looking at the dean’s kind expression, I tried my best to think of my last memory. A beam of light passed me by.

I stood still, and shook my head in the end. 

Young boy: “I know! You must have been too sleepy, that’s why you fell asleep.”

Young girl: “Even so, she wouldn’t have slept on the floor!”

Young boy: “Who says you can’t? You were even able to sleep on the grass while standing the other day, and  I saw that!”

Young boy: “Didn’t the dean always talk about how it’s so easy to fall asleep during this season?”

Young girl: “You! How could you say that out? It’s too embarrassing!”

Dean: “Alright, stop fighting.”

I couldn’t help but laugh at their bickering. I felt a long lost warmth in my heart.

The sun shined on the windows as I looked out, and all I saw was rich greens. The weather was amazing.

However, something didn’t feel right.

Too many things had happened in the past. Even though what I saw were familiar people, I’ve always felt that there were subtle changes.

Why was I at the orphanage? Has the incident that took place in the other world been resolved?

Is he… doing ok?

Then, I received a phone call from an unknown number.

MC: “Hello?”

??: “MC… Your company...”

MC: “Hello? I can’t hear you clearly. Can you speak louder?”

I heard static noises alongside a familiar female voice. I could only struggle to comprehend what she was saying. 

Before I could ask clearly, the call went into voicemail.

My company? Was the call from Anna?

ding--

At the same time, my phone started ringing continuously for a few minutes.

The children around me watched as my phone continued to ring.

Young boy: “Your phone is dancing…”

Text messages, e-mails, news, advertisements…  

Countless notifications flooded in, as though wanting to fill up my phone all at once.

MC: “What’s going on?”  

The flood of notifications stopped, and my screen went dark

I picked up my phone to check for any issues, when my screen lit up once again.

The sender’s name broke into my sight suddenly, and my breathing seemed to be out of pace in an instant.

It’s Kiro.

Kiro: “Welcome back ^^”

------chapter 25- 2------- 

My thoughts drifted to a distant past. Looking at my phone’s screen, I could picture his smiling face, grinning from ear to ear.  Kiro… How did he know of my return?

More importantly, the one who sent me thay text message-- was it really him?

An image of a silver-haired boy came into my mind and I thought of his cold gaze. I couldn’t help but hold on to my phone tightly.

Young boy: “Why didn’t you bring chips for us?”

I stopped for a moment, and thought about a decision I made, and my visit to the orphanage to  distribute the  chips to the children.

MC: “Dean, I’m sorry, things have been too busy these days. How long has it been since my last visit?.”

Dean: “About half a year.”

Dean: “When you last visited, this place was a temporary shelter. The flu affected the whole city, and it was disastrous.”

Hearing about the flu, it rang a bell. All of my memories came rushing back like a surge of waves.

The messy gray-white hall, the girl in a black dress who fell into a pool of blood, the man whom I cried and begged at, and his embrace. 

Victor… How is he? 

I subconsciously put my hand on my chest, trying to find an answer that did not exist.

Dean: “Are you alright? Are you feeling unwell?”

I shook my head quickly, let out a breath, and thought of something more important.

MC: “Has the flu incident been resolved?”

The dean let out a surprised expression, and nodded.

Dean: “Of course it had been resolved. Even if you were busy, you should know about things like this. Furthermore, didn’t Lucien--”

Suddenly, strong footsteps came from the outside, and interrupted his words.

--bang---, the door was forcefully knocked open.

The children screamed in fear, and I rushed to  protect them behind me.

Even though my heart was beating so quickly, my first reaction was to react immediately. Perhaps that was because I had experienced too many things recently.

A group of people in uniforms appeared in the classroom. They formed into a straight line quickly, their faces full of dignity.

There was a sudden conflict. In a few seconds, they blocked the path to the exit.

Upon looking at their uniforms, I reacted immediately. They were agents from the task force!

Dean: “Sirs, may I ask what’s the matter?”

I looked at the dean who was walking forward,  my heart full of surprise and suspicion. He’s an ordinary person, so how could he have known about the agents?

Not having time to think, the man who was standing in the middle walked towards us with utmost urgency.

He was holding a device that was slightly larger than his palm. His gaze scanned us, as though he was comparing us with one another.

After a while, he turned to whisper to his teammate next to him. They quickly walked toward us and grabbed the two children behind me. 

Officer: “Take them away.”

I looked at the scene before me in shock, unable to react to the situation.

Young girl: “Dean… MC… I’m scared...”

The crying and shouting in front of me amplified and I felt something tugging at my heart. I rushed forward and held  their hands.

MC: “Your tasks have always been to arrest criminals with Evol powers, so why are you capturing these children?”

The man frowned, seemingly intrigued by my question.

Officer: “You seem to have a good understanding about us?”

MC: “I know...one of your past colleagues.”

The man looked at me for a moment, and let out a cold laughter.

Officer: “You want to talk about favors?  Miss, you’re overthinking. We must take away these two underaged evolvers today. This is an order, please cooperate.”

I looked at the two crying children before me. All this while, I never knew they were evolvers.

However, that man’s tone infuriated me.

MC: “Why must they be taken, just because they are evolvers? Did they commit a crime?”

MC: “Also, how could you discuss the evolvers’ identities so openly?”

There was a dead silence, and then laughter from the agents. Even the dean furrowed his brows as he looked at me.

The officer who captured the children began to speak coldly.

Officer: “3 months ago, the list containing the names of all evolvers was released publicly. ”

MC: “What?!”

Officer: “This is to protect the safety of all citizens.”

Officer: “The massacre at the quarantine zone proved that the potential danger of evol criminals has far exceeded our expectations”. 

Officer: “If the force had not taken control of the scene on time and arrested the ones responsible, every single one of you would probably have been dead.”

Young boy: “Nonsense! The one who saved us was Lucien!”

Upon hearing Lucien’s name, the agent was surprised and showed a hint of anxiety on his face, but soon looked serious again.

Officer: “Anyway, we must monitor all underaged evolvers.”

Officer: “Even though they are still young, it would be too dangerous when they lose control of their powers.”

Looking at the two helpless figures before me, I gritted my teeth.

Be it the massacre, or evolvers losing control of their powers-- it is not fundamentally the evolvers’ fault. Even more so, these children were not to be blamed.

How could they publicly release the names of the evolvers? How are they going to live their lives then?

In a moment, countless ideas flashed in my mind.

The man passed down an order as they moved towards me. I could only hold the children tightly with my body to protect them.

MC: “Wait!”

I took a deep breath and paced myself.

MC: “I am an Evolver too.”

Everyone stopped on their tracks instantly as the man looked at me cautiously. Their reaction convinced me that my tactic was effective.

MC: “I am an evolver too, If you are going to take these children, take me along as well.”

The man ordered the dean to stand at the side, as he reached for his gun.

Officer: “Take the rest of the children and leave. Do not return to the classroom without our orders.”

Young girl: “She won’t hurt us!”

The dean suppressed his feelings of suspicion and we exchanged looks. He nodded and took the children away quickly.

The man waited for them to leave, and took a metal device from his teammate as he placed them on my temple.

I gulped nervously and was prepared to be captured, but I stared at him without showing any weakness.

The device beeped twice and showed: No Evol response.

MC: “?!”

The man shook his head and laughed coldly.

Officer: “Miss, do not interfere with official business.”

I stood in place, staring at the device and its response echoed in my ears: No Evol response.

The man turned to take the children away, but I couldn’t help but run forward. I snatched the device from his hands.

Officer: “What are you doing?”

Countless guns aimed at me, and I was running out of time. I placed the device over my temple like they did before. The device rang sharply, and the man looked at me in disgust.

Officer: “What a lunatic… actually hoping to be an Evolver...”

Officer: “Do what an ordinary person would do, or else I will take you away next time.”

I watched the children being taken with my own eyes.

However, the sharp ringing from the device still echoed in my ears.

No Evol response… How is that possible?

Wasn’t my Evol the reason why everything began in the first place?

Because I have the Queen’s Evol, and because I saw those premonitions-- That’s why the world before my eyes slowly unfolded just like what I saw.

The Queen’s abilities would be awakened once the dimensions are unified. I clearly did it in the Black Cabin! So, why…

Was there a problem with that device?!

I closed my eyes as I tried to focus. I tried to recall how I felt when I used my abilities in the past, but I only saw  darkness. 

No, the Queen’s abilities should be more than just being able to see the future. At that moment, I felt it too.

But then, it seemed I didn’t even have my pre-recognition abilities anymore!

Had I really…turned into an ordinary person?

Hypnos: “Can you feel the helplessness of an ordinary person now?”

A gentle yet distant voice rang in my ears. Its warmth felt like falling snowflakes in the cold winter.

I quickly opened my eyes, and in front of me stood an elegant, slender man. I felt a chill down my spine.

Hypnos: “We met again.”

------chapter 25-4------- 

He was still as lofty as ever.

Even though he emerged from the sunlight, his eyes still brought about an air of coldness. I felt a chill involuntarily.

His appearance gave me a terrible feeling, as if this person was concealing some sort of agenda. 

MC: “Why are you here?”

He smiled, but didn’t answer.

MC: “Is this another vision in my dreams?”

MC: “Was it you who allowed the disclosure of the evolvers’ identities?”

MC: “Were you the one who let the public treat evolvers like monsters? Like what you’ve done before?”

Hypnos smiled and walked to my side. His voice was warm and calm, like he was trying to appease me from being so agitated.

Hypnos: “I think you have misunderstood. This is indeed the world where you made all your decisions.”

Hypnos: “I think I have already reminded you a long time ago, that regardless of which world it is, they won’t have too much of a difference from one another.”

MC: “I don’t believe that this has nothing to do with you.”

His face seemed to show ruthlessness, or was it sympathy?

I was unable to read his emotions from his eyes.

Hypnos: “You’re overthinking it. In this world, I have become an ordinary person, just like you.”

Hypnos: “This is considered as... the price I‘ve paid.”

He let out a gentle smile, but I sensed a hint of danger. Something then flashed across my mind.

MC: “What do you mean by “Price”? Did you exchange your evol for something?”

He looked at me silently, reached out, and brushed my forehead.

I couldn’t help but to take a step back, and my forehead felt cold.

Hypnos: “You will slowly learn about it, eventually."

Hypnos: “My decision was made for you.”

I was lost in my thoughts for a moment, but I quickly realized something.

MC: “Why would I lose my evol?”

He looked at me like he was prompting me to keep talking.

MC: “Was this your plan? Did you make my evol disappear? Why did you do that?”

Hypnos: “Isn't it great to be an ordinary person?”

He interrupted me, his tone peaceful and gentle, like he was treating a child who had just lost her candy. 

Hypnos: “Regarding the Queen’s abilities, It was only a burden to you, right?”

I was stunned by his question. I felt like a rock was stuck between my throat, making me unable to react to what he said.

Hypnos: “Your growth was too slow.”

His cold words hit my heart, word by word. I almost wanted to lower my head to avoid his gaze.

Hypnos: “Or, that the dream world I have created is the place that suits you the most. It’s such a pity that you were not awake.” 

He sighed. My neck felt heavy, but I still held my head up firmly.

Hypnos: “This world might change very quickly, and this change will have nothing to do with you.”

His words concealed a hint of danger, making me too afraid to imagine too much. More and more emotions surged in me.

MC: “I will find my powers back.”

He simply acknowledged after a few moments of silence.

MC: “Even if the world is spiraling towards a worse direction, I am still capable of changing it."

Hypnos: “What can the present-you do?”

He looked at my gaze, now seemingly different. I didn’t want to interpret what his words meant.

MC: “Someone once told me that I am the only Queen in this world.”

MC: “No matter how much things change, I will always be able to alter the ending.”

My words made him stop in his tracks for a moment. He smiled lightly after a long while.

Hypnos: “Then, go and do whatever you want to do.”

Hypnos: “Now’s only the beginning.”

I sat on the floor and watched him leave as I gritted my teeth, refusing to show an ounce of weakness.

I only felt my shaking fingertips when I was the only one left in the classroom.

I looked at my palm, the crystal-clear sweat droplets exposing my fear from before.

However, my uneasiness slowly subsided as a voice entered my thoughts.

Lucien: “Only I can bring you to the Queen’s real abilities, and bring you to the real future.”

It doesn’t matter which world it is, nobody understood about Evol and the Queen as much as him.

MC: “Lucien…”

I couldn’t help but say his name. I felt the chilly spring air wheezing by the window.

The camphor tree in the yard just grew new green sprouts. They softly wavered in the wind, as though someone was gently speaking to them.

I looked at the familiar shade of green, and I felt moved by it somehow.

I was already back.

Will he still be there?

------chapter 25-5------- 

I was in a taxi as I passed by Lucien’s research center. I looked on with mixed feelings.

The scenery out of the windows got further and further away from me. As I thought of everything that had happened,  my mind was like an entangled ball of yarn, unable to get through the huge mess.

MC: “To be an ordinary person…”

I looked down at my hands, and closed my eyes. No matter how much I tried to focus, nothing happened. I could only hear the broadcast the driver turned on, and the reality around me which seemed both familiar and foreign at the same time. Yet, the word “Evolver” kept appearing in my mind.

 Looks like the city has completely accepted the existence of Evolvers during the last 6 months. In fact, many people already have their own opinions about it.

News: “The mastermind behind the massacre, nicknamed  “Hades”, is currently under investigation. We interviewed the highest ranked commander Mr. Leto…”

I heard two familiar names pass me by. Before I could react, the middle-aged man’s voice rang through the broadcast.

Leto: “What Hades did had brought us great harm, and the agency will not tolerate such a crime.”

Leto: “The current investigation proves that Hades’ organization did plan the virus.”

Leto: “The agency called them Organization B, and there was also evidence that their core members fled the scene collectively after the incident, including Hades himself.”

Hades? Didn’t he already…

I was taken aback. I thought of the gun in Victor’s hand, and the man who collapsed in front of me. Soon, I recalled what happened in the other world.

Looks like “organization B” refered to BLACK SWAN, I didn’t expect them to be revealed to the public so openly.

Perhaps the agenda behind this was the same when they revealed the names of the evolvers.

Leto: “We have already gotten a hold of their identities, and are currently trying to track where they are.” 

My heart raced again.

If their identities have been revealed, then Lucien…

I was worried. The taxi had already stopped. As I looked up to see the scenery before me, I froze.

The lone building in front of me was not unfamiliar at all, but this was definitely not the place I had wanted to go.

MC: “Excuse me, did you misunderstand what I’ve said? I said I wanted to get to Lucien’s research center.”

Driver: “Research center? It was long gone. This is Professor Lucien’s research institute.”

I was stunned, and I looked at the vast open space before I noticed the newly installed fences and signs. 

The highest life science research center. 

That place had given me many memories. At the beginning, it was Lucien who led me here. At the same time, he had also become someone I was unable to get close to...Ares.

MC: “What’s going on here?”

Driver: “What? Aren’t you a fan of Professor Lucien?”

MC: “You know Lucien?”

Driver: “He saved everyone in Loveland. Of course I know about him.”

Saved the whole of Loveland city?

I suddenly remembered the kid back in the orphanage, who mentioned Lucien saving them.

MC: “What… Did he do?”

Driver: “Are you not a local here? The whole world should have known about this news, though. If we didn’t have the vaccine Lucien had created, we would all be doomed 6 months ago.”

I was thrown off guard for a moment, but understood quickly.

It turned out that Lucien was the one who resolved the flu incident.

Upon understanding the situation, I wasn’t surprised. Perhaps all this while, I believed that he would be the one to develop the vaccine.

Driver: “Sigh. Fortunately for us, we have a genius around, like Professor Lucien. If not for this, all of us would have been killed by the volers--whatever they are called.”

As I heard his words, I felt a taste I could not quite explain.

If he knew that Lucien himself is also an Evolver, and if he heard the news broadcast regarding the organization previously…

I snapped out of my thoughts, and got out of the car.

This building brought me many bad memories, and I didn’t want to get close to it. There were many girls around me who were taking videos, and nobody seemed to mind the strange barrenness here. 

A few of the girls gathered to watch a video on their phones. From their phones, I heard Lucien’s voice. My heart raced, and I took out my phone as well. I searched for his name on my screen.

News reports and photos of him quickly showed up, all of them related to him saving everyone from the crisis.  

I clicked on one of the articles: .

The man in the video had a content smile on his face. It brought me back to the scene where I met him for the first time.

I know that was the Lucien who had nothing to do with BLACK SWAN.

Lucien: “It is a pleasure to accept this commission from the World Gene Organization.”

Lucien: “I chose to rebuild the building out of respect for its predecessors. It also serves as a wake up call for the future generations to come.” 

I looked at the calm, harmless man on the screen. At that moment, I felt that it was a lie.

I couldn’t bring myself to remember that this man had said many dangerous things to me with that same voice.

However, before I left this world, he clearly already…

Lucien: “The world’s savior?  I’m sorry, but I’m not. I also hope that everyone would not use this term to define me.”

Lucien: “I’m just a sacrifice used in the process of humanity’s evolution.”  

The video paused. The word “Sacrifice” coming from him reminded me of something. I thought of another side to him. 

I quickly thought of how the existence of BLACK SWAN was known to the public. Will the fact that Lucien is Ares be announced too?

Countless questions and worries took over me. 

As I was lost in those thoughts, I arrived at the exit unknowingly.

I put my phone away. As I contemplated on how I should enter the building to approach Lucien, the large electronic gates before me opened suddenly.

A young man in a white uniform rushed out of the doors, and quickly began to speak to me warmly.

Young man: “Are you MC? I’m Amin. Quick, come in!  Lucien’s public presentation had already begun.”

I felt so awkward that I didn’t know what to say. As he gestured for me to enter, I had no choice but to follow him.

He took me through a white hallway, and we entered a lab.

MC: “Actually, I…” 

The young man reached to a closet, took out a white uniform similar to the one he was wearing, and threw it towards me.”

Young man: “Put this on. By the way, since you arrived late, the experiment was over. But professor Lucien still has a lecture going on--”

MC: “I’m actually just here to look for Lucien.”

Young man: “Yes,yes,yes, I know, but we are already late. When we enter, please do not make any noise that would interrupt Professor Lucien. My credits would be affected.”

The young man gave me no opportunities to interrupt him, so I just nodded obediently in response.

Perhaps it was my subconscious desire to see him that made me unable to refuse him.

He took me up the stairs, and a tall laboratory appeared before my eyes.

A group of researchers in white uniforms gathered around, and occasionally took down notes.

The ring shaped screen atop displayed all sorts of formulas and numbers which I did not understand.

I walked closer to the group of people, and heard a familiar voice.

Lucien: “On the road to humanity’s evolution, we will encounter many challenges. However, it is simply a process we have to go through.”

Hearing that voice, I hardly dared to step forward any closer. I knew that I was no longer looking at a screen, but Lucien himself.  

Lucien: “Maybe some people would like to return to simpler experiences, or perhaps… some people would like to look for a shortcut.” 

I kept my gaze down, but I couldn’t help but keep walking toward where he stood.

 Lucien: “...But to find such a shortcut is not easy.”

As I heard the familiar words, I looked up, and my heart raced.

Lucien stood there, wearing his glasses, and was still wearing the same white coat and dark  dress shirt.

Just like that, he came into my sight.

Lucien: “I’m sorry, I’ve been doing the talking all this while. In regards to this experiment, would any students like to express their views? ”

He turned around as he spoke. There was a hint of softness in his eyes.

My heart skipped a beat at that instant as our eyes met. I looked back at him nonetheless, and never tried to avoid him.

It felt like at that moment, there were only the two of us there.

Lucien showed no sign of surprise. Perhaps there wasn't  a thing in this world that he doesn't know of.

My disappearance, as well as my presence, didn’t seem significant enough to surprise him. 

He was calm and composed when he looked at me, as though I had been around all the time, looking out for him, and as if I was going to respond to him.

My heart was full of emotions I couldn’t quite describe. I wanted to say something, but it was impossible to call out to him in his lecture.

He smiled and began to speak.

Lucien: “Could I trouble that student over there to complete the following part with me?”

His words stopped me on my tracks.

------chapter 25-7-------

 Lucien: “Could you assist me?”

Lucien smiled and called the name of the student seated next to me. 

I took a deep breath before bringing myself to look up.

He watched patiently at the student, and occasionally gave him pointers. His smile was distant, as though our encounter was just an illusion.

MC: “He...didn’t see me?”

I've imagined various scenes of our reunion, but certainly not this one. 

At that moment, my expectations felt so pathetic.

I looked down at my feet. I could only let out a helpless smile.

Perhaps most of the people present were not professional researchers. The lecture seemed more like a public discussion.

The dull topics were made interesting by Lucien.

The atmosphere was intense and feedback was being exchanged around the room.

Lucien would occasionally turn towards me, but would not look at me for long.

I was certain that he did, for sure, notice me.

He always kept a smile on his face, as he confidently answered the questions the students had.

Looking at him, I felt a sense of unfamiliarity.

He couldn’t have forgotten me in this world as well, right?

I felt a surge of incomprehensible emotions tugging at me.

Lucien’s gaze fell on me once again, as if I was a plant he adored.

I was a little disturbed, and decided to retreat to the crowd and look at my phone instead.

MC: “When will this lecture end?”

Alongside many advertisements, my phone was full of messages and calls from different people from the last 6 months.  

As I searched through my messages and missed calls, I did not see his name at all.

There was nothing from Lucien.

During the last 6 months, he had never attempted to contact me.

I felt my emotions grow stronger and stronger. I wanted to turn and leave, but I was unable to move.

However, at that time, I didn’t realize that my actions were being noticed by him.

 Lucien: “Thank you for giving me your precious time. I hope that this has not been a boring afternoon for everyone here.”

I finally heard him wrap things up. As I looked up, our eyes met again.

MC: “What is he looking at, exactly?!”

Lucien: “And…”

He paused, and smiled, seemingly deep in thoughts.

Lucien: “Our society is currently changing. Even though it is difficult to notice the approaching new era, we cannot ignore any small changes.”

Lucien: “I need everyone to know that this research center has a purpose different from other organizations or institutions.” 

Student A: “What do you mean by "other organizations"? Are you referring to the special task force?”

The question seemed to cause a commotion, and the crowd began to whisper to one another.

Student A: “Is this because the names of the Evolvers were revealed?”

Student A: “From your standpoint and in the stance of scientific research, you disagree with their actions, right?”

The commotion escalated, and more discussions were brought up.

 I heard someone guess that the student who raised the question previously, was an Evolver.

Student B: “I think I’ve heard rumors about Professor Lucien conducting research on Evolvers. He probably is siding with the Evolvers.”

Student C: “Huh? That can’t be!”

Student B: “Also, according to information provided by insiders, the commander of the task force came and requested for our research materials and data. Professor Lucien did not let them in.”

Student C: “There are indeed many people on the list who are professors themselves. I guess it’s to protect the researchers in their respective institutes ?” 

Student B: “I think that in this situation, the only institute in Loveland city that can maintain a neutral point of view is HuaRui Institute.”

 As a thought flashed by my mind, someone wearing a white coat and a badge entered.

Student D: “Professor Lucien, can you express your opinion in regards to what you’ve said previously?”

I looked at the student beside me, who looked a little mature. He seemed a little familiar to me.

An assistant stepped out in an attempt to dismiss the commotion, but Lucien waved at him to stop. He was still smiling like before, unwavered by what was going on. 

Lucien: “May I ask if you have scheduled an interview with me officially ? Mr reporter?” 

The student beside me shook a little. He appeared to be panicking about his identity being revealed. I just remembered that I’ve seen this person at several press conferences before.

Lucien: “I’ve emphasized it many times. My colleagues and I do not accept interviews unless officially scheduled. We have more important things to do.”

Lucien: “ I hope that the media can do their job well, and clearly think of the content they want to report.”

 Lucien: “Or...think about the values you want to uphold.”

His stable voice put everyone to silence. 

I suddenly realized that what he said were the exact words I’ve told him before.

I couldn’t help but glance at him once more, and sure enough,  his gaze fell on me.

My heart skipped another beat.

When I said those words to him before, his expression back then was the same one he wore when he spoke to the student beside me-- there was no trace of warmth in it.

When he was done talking, Lucien walked down the podium, switched off the projector, and took off his glasses.

 Lucien: “Life is more interesting with small incidents like this, it seems.”

Lucien: “What I’ve said just now can serve as an assignment to everyone.”

Lucien: “I believe that all of you will soon understand the meaning behind this.”

He seemed to be concealing something I didn’t understand, and I am no stranger to that expression.

Lucien… What are you planning?

All I felt was needless worry.

The staff guided Lucien as he left from the other side. I was pushed along by the crowd as they went outside the room.

While nobody was paying attention, I retreated to a corner and waited for everyone else to leave, before sneaking back to the lab.

The lab was cold. The scene I’ve witnessed felt like an illusion to me.

I took a deep breath, and walked towards the direction Lucien took. I soon found an office with a familiar name on the door.

I never saw any other rooms around, and it seemed that there was only his office on that level.

I wanted to knock on the door, but I didn’t have the courage to do so.

Even though I had  gathered enough information, I still couldn’t think of what to say to him when we met.

Should I call him Lucien, or Ares?

At that moment, the elevator doors opened.

I subconsciously hid at the corner as I listened. I heard the sound of footsteps approaching closer and closer.

It was… a woman?

I couldn’t help but peek, and realized that she had already knocked on his door.

It was that girl in a black silk dress from my memories, whose face  was exactly the same as mine. She smiled sincerely.

My heart was pounding rapidly, as I witnessed the office door being opened. 

MC’s other self :  “We finally met again, professor Lucien.”

  ------chapter 25-8------- 

Her voice echoed in my ears. I could not see the expression Lucien had behind the door. I could only see the hemline of her dress as she entered his office.

I could almost hear my own heartbeat. I had so many questions and assumptions. I found myself walking towards the door eventually.

Why would she appear in this world again? Did she have anything to do with the Evol powers I had lost?

Why did she look for Lucien?

What is Lucien doing, exactly?

I felt like a mess. Then, I heard an abrupt, loud noise.

Shocked, I took a few steps back before noticing that the doors were not completely closed. I could hear Lucien’s voice through the gaps. He had a cold disposition, like an invisible blade.

Lucien: “You shouldn’t appear in front of me.”

MC’s other self:  “Oh? I thought you were hoping you could see this face.”

I looked through the gaps, and took a deep breath.

The lights were not on, and Lucien stood in the shadows. The light seeping through the closed blinds was cast on his face.

Reflected on his eyes was… a murderous intent.

It was something I have never seen before in him.

It was an expression I’ve never witnessed.

According to my impression of him, he would never show his emotions so openly like this. Even as Ares, they were always carefully concealed. 

He was holding a scalper, his icy stance revealed under the light.

MC’s other self:  “Looks like Professor Lucien doesn’t welcome me here.”

MC’s other self:  “But to kill me with your own hands… Can you really do it?”

Perhaps it was the cloud passing by outside, covering the sunlight that was present before, as a shadow was cast on Lucien’s face. I saw him tighten his grip on the blade he was holding.

Lucien: “You’re not her.”

His voice was deeper than usual, and I sensed danger.

I was unsure if I should enter and intervene what was about to unfold.

At that moment, the phone on Lucien’s desk rang.

MC’s other self:  “I think… you should reconsider it again.”

MC’s other self:  “I will visit you again next time.”

As I heard her voice, I retreated immediately and waited for her footsteps to disappear.

I paced my breathing for a long time before I was calm again, and I walked back towards the office.

The door was not fully closed, and I even forgot to knock. As I gently pushed the door open, I saw the state of him, and the state of his office.

The small office had a range of lab equipment, all kinds of books, and rich green plants lining the windows. 

It was his usual habit. 

Lucien sat by the window, with his back leaning against the cabinet.

I was unsure about the conflict that happened before I entered. I saw papers, pens, and pills scattered all over the floor.

His clothes were a little wrinkled, and his tie was loose. He looked so different compared to his disposition back at the lecture hall.

I didn’t know why, but I felt sadness. 

There were emotions on his face that I couldn’t get close to. I felt that my heart would get tighter the more I looked.

Perhaps it was because I entered without a word, as he looked at me.

MC: “Lucien...”

He looked at me in a nostalgic way, but looked away the next moment.

He didn’t seem surprised by my presence, just like how he reacted when he saw me at the lecture before. I almost felt like I didn’t exist.

My visit to his research institute and his office were things he should not have expected.  

Even if he expected so, he shouldn’t have acted like that.

I raised my voice, feeling a little infuriated.

MC: “Lucien!”

Lucien still didn’t respond.

I watched as he got up, picked up the things on the floor naturally,  and completely treated me like air.  The emotions I felt got more intense.

MC: “I’m calling out to you…”

Lucien: “Yes. I’ve heard you.” 

Lucien: “I just wanted to… hear it a few more times.”

Lucien: “I didn’t think that you’d be angry… Right, you’ve always been like this all along.”

I saw him smile a little through the corners of his mouth. Apart from the little comfort I felt from his smile, I sensed a hint of… 

Self depreciation?

Why would I feel this way?

His words felt a little strange to me, too.

However, his reaction comforted me. I composed myself and decided to ask him about the scene I saw before I entered.

His response threw me off guard.

Lucien: “Can we drop by the restaurant we went to yesterday?”

 MC: “Huh?”

Lucien: “You don’t like that place?”

He looked up. He seemed to be completely calm, and had a gentle demeanor I never saw in a long time.

Lucien: “Visiting a different restaurant is fine too. After all, if we visit the same one everyday…”

He seemed to be talking to himself, and I quickly realized that something was off.

Yesterday? Going out everyday? Has he… met me during the time I was away?

Or, when I was away, in this world-- there was another me?!

  ------chapter 25-9-------

The sunlight through the blinds carried with it a light warmth, surrounding the small office.

I had too many things to ask him, but didn’t know where to begin.

If there was really another me in this world, then, my current self…

I suddenly felt that the distance between Lucien and me had been a century, despite us being a few steps apart physically.

MC: “Lucien, all this while... have you met me?”

He paused for a moment, and let out a smile.

 Lucien: “Haven’t I always been able to see you?”

His response was still so strange, and I didn’t know how to react to that. I could only deal with my complex thoughts while being stopped in my tracks.

 Lucien: “Was the lecture boring?”

MC: “What?”

 Lucien: “I saw you daydreaming.”

MC: “No, I just haven't gotten used to it.”

After all, the information presented was too complex for me to understand.

 If there was another me in this world with Lucien--

Lucien: “Actually, I felt bored too.”

Lucien: “But we still need to fill ourselves with the boring information, as though they can reduce the fear of what’s unknown.”

Lucien: “To be frank, it is merely ignorance.”

He pulled a chair as he spoke. He closed his eyes, leaned back, and raised his hand to pinch his nose bridge.

I felt his exhaustion, and I thought about the incident that took place during his lecture. 

It’s fine if he saw me as someone else…

But in regards to the questions I have, I still want to talk it out clearly.

MC: “Did something happen involving the special task force?  I heard that they revealed the incident about BLACK SWAN…”

 I thought I saw a gleam in his eyes, like he wasn't expecting me to say that.

Lucien: “Should I be worried about insignificant things like that?”

MC: “What do you mean by insignificant? Isn’t this an important issue?”

MC: “BLACK SWAN had already been exposed, if your identity as Ares gets revealed--”

Lucien: “Such a thing will never happen.”

He looked into my eyes and patiently continued to explain. 

 Lucien: “Everything that they’ve done was all part of my plan.”

Lucien: “Except for that incident...the incident about you.”

As he said those words, his eyes seemed to darken, and I could sense the murderous intent in him that was present before.

Lucien: “I will stop this from happening.”

His voice was terrifying, and anxiety welled up in me as he spoke. I couldn’t help but reach out my hand towards him.

He was surprised by my action and dodged.

When he looked at me again, his gaze was a little frightening.

Lucien: “Has it… gotten this bad?”

I followed his gaze to the table top, and upon seeing pills on the table and the ones scattered on the floor, I realized something.

MC: “Lucien...are you unwell?”

He picked up a brown bottle of pills and looked at it before putting it back on the cabinet.

Lucien: “No, it was just an accident.”

Lucien: “What, are you worrying about me?”

MC: “Yes.”

I nodded to him as I spoke. I didn’t know why, but since I saw Lucien, I kept feeling strangely worried, and I finally let it out.

MC: “What’s going on with you, exactly?”

Lucien hesitated before turning around. His face was covered by the shadows, and his eyes seemed dull.

Lucien: “Why are you asking such a question?”

MC: “Because I think you’re acting very strangely.”

Lucien: “hm?’

MC: “First of all, I want you to take a look clearly, I am MC.”

He was silent for a long while, and spoke again with a hoarse voice.

Lucien: “Yes, I know.”

MC: “ I don’t know what exactly happened all this while.”

MC: “ Even if there is another MC around, she shouldn’t have let you be in this state.”

MC: “Now, I’m already back…”

Lucien laughed lightly.

I stopped, as my words were stuck in my throat. He was closely in front of me, and yet I felt so far away from him.

Lucien: “You seem different today.”

Lucien: “But you are similar to  how you were in the beginning.”

MC: “In the beginning?”

Lucien: “Only that silly girl would ask such questions. It’s just that I haven’t heard it in a long time.”

Lucien: “And I will never hear it again.”

His voice was soft, yet it hit me.  I suddenly realized something, but dared not continue to think about it.

He looked at me when he said those words, but it also felt like he wasn’t looking at me.

He seemed to be overwhelmed with emotions and I couldn’t distinguish them for a while.

I have never seen this side of him before.

It was unfamiliar, but it made my heart ache.

He sighed, and turned to look at the calendar on the desk behind.

Lucien: “So it has been such a long time.”

I’ve noticed that since two months ago on a Saturday, every day after that was marked.

Some of the days were marked with tiny dots, whereas some were messy circles that were scribbled over and over.

He took out a pen and scribbled on it a few times on today’s date.

 Lucien: “I shouldn’t see you.”

I heard his voice getting weaker, and my rapid heartbeat seemed to hurt the back of my head.

Lucien: “But i was unable to control my desire to see you. As long as I think about you, you would appear.”

Lucien: “This is probably humanity’s biggest flaw. If we can really fully evolve, emotions should be eliminated first. ”

Lucien: “Yet, each time you appeared,  you reminded me of my incapability.”

At a loss, I walked towards him.

Perhaps it was because I have never heard Lucien’s voice like this. Or maybe because I saw through his wounds.

There had never been another me.

To Lucien, there was only one MC in this world.

He looked at me bitterly.

Lucien: “So you’ve started looking at me like this too?”

Lucien: “Perhaps in my heart, these were my real thoughts.”

He paused, and his previously soft voice slowly turned into resolve.

Lucien: “So, these hallucinations are fine with me,”

Lucien: “MC,”

Lucien: “No matter what form you take, please continue to stay by my side.”

I understood everything completely. I understood why he was talking to himself,  why he was so devastated, how much he missed me, and why he was acting abnormally.

I was also taken aback by my bold assumption.

I forced myself to suppress the tears that were going to overflow, and I smiled at him gently.

MC: “Okay.”

I leaned forward, and hugged Lucien tightly.

His broad shoulders were shaking visibly.

MC: “Lucien, it’s me.”

MC: “I am not your hallucination.”

MC: “I am back.”

 ------chapter 25- 10----

He was trembling in my arms, and we stayed in silence for a long while.

As the silence was going on for too long, I waited for him to speak.

He took a deep breath, and I felt an air of calmness from him.

I was a little worried, and was about to withdraw my hand from him, but he suddenly pulled me to his side.

His hands wandered around my skin delicately, like he was trying to confirm something. He squeezed my wrist so tightly, and I subconsciously stepped back.

Lucien: “Did I hurt you?”

MC: “No.”

He turned around to look at me, his eyes overwhelmed with too many complicated emotions, and eventually felt like a faint, gentle light.

Lucien: “When did you…”

MC: “When I woke up today, I found myself in the orphanage.”

I knew what he wanted to ask, and I tried my best to explain what happened to him as cheerily and energetically as I can. I felt like all the pain I went through were not important anymore.

MC: “I was looking to seek your help initially.”

Before I could finish talking, he held me tightly.

His embrace made me breathless.

I thought of the Lucien who was at that TV tower, the Lucien who got into a confrontation with me at the press conference, and the Lucien who had forgotten about me in the other world.

All this while, I thought that to him, I was merely a pawn named “Queen”.

I never thought that,,,

MC: “Lucien, thank you.”

His arms around me relaxed after the silence.

Lucien: “What are you thanking me for?”

MC: “Thank you...for wanting me to return.”

MC: “Also, you have told me the same words in the other places, and I guess now’s my turn.”

Lucien: “Other places? Do you mean the other worlds?”

Lucien: “I feel like I remember.”

I thought about what he said to be at Black Cabin, and thought that he might have memories from the other worlds.

MC: “What do you remember?”

Lucien: “Just a few scenes.”

MC: “When you were using your abilities,  I was able to see what I’ve done in the other worlds,”

The word “Abilities” caught my attention, I looked at him solemnly as I pulled away from his embrace.

MC: “Lucien, there’s something I need your help with.”

Lucien: “About how you lost your Evol?”

His reply caught me off guard, and I could only nod.

MC: “You...how did you know?”

I looked at his darkened eyes, and recalled seeing this look in his eyes before.

Lucien: “I know all about it. You don’t have to worry.”

Lucien: “This has to be resolved slowly. You don’t have to think too much about it right now.”

He reached out and rubbed my hair,  stood up to open the blinds by the window, and

sunlight filled the room in an instant.

I couldn’t help but reach out to cover my eyes from the sunlight. As I looked at Lucien, there was already a gentle smile on his face.

Lucien: “Let’s go.”

MC: “To where?”

Lucien: “Since you just returned, don’t you want to go home and take a look?”

I thought of the other world where I could not return to my house. The Lucien in front of me was familiar. He reminded me of the time when he first moved next to my house, and all the silly things I did.

Returning to my home sounded amazing.

Suppressing the warm feelings in my heart, I nodded to him.

Lucien held my hand as we walked out, greeting every researcher who passed us by.

Everyone’s expressions were full of surprise and curiosity. I tried to let go of his band in embarrassment, but he only held it tighter. 

Lucien: “Do the opinions of others matter to you?”

MC: “Not really.”

He never let go of my hand on the way home.

When I saw the area I was so familiar with. I couldn’t help but yell in surprise.

Lucien just looked at me and followed on silently as he watched me run to the gate.

As the elevator continued to rise endlessly,  I took out my key in excitement.

Suddenly, the elevator shook and I lost my balance. I fell into the warm embrace that smelled of flowers and plants.

Lucien: “Slow down.”

As the doors opened, I rushed out. 

However, I realized that the key in my hands a while ago was gone.

MC: “Where did it go… it was clearly in my hands just now.”

I saw Lucien wave the key at me.

MC: “Why is it with you! Oh, just now, at the elevator…”

I reached out for my key, but he raised his hand, refusing to return it to me.

As I looked at him suspiciously, he gave me a helpless look.

Lucien: “Have you been gone for too long, and hence forgetting where your house is?”

MC: “huh?”

I looked at the door in front of me, and looked at it again and  hesitated.

MC: “This should be right.”

Lucien: “So, are you coming to my house?”

Lucien: “if you have doubts, of course I’d welcome you.”

He spoke as he took out his key, reaching for the keyhole in front of me.

MC: “W-wait!”

MC: “I think I got it wrong! My house should be over here!”

MC: “Give me the key!”

I took him to the house next door and pulled my hand away.

At that time, I didn’t know what it meant as the door opened. 

Lucien opened his hands, revealing a silver key. I could feel a subtle change in his eyes.

He looked at the excited girl, with a faint smile on his face.

Lucien: “Then, as your neighbor, can I come in and take a look?”

------chapter 25-13------- 

MC: “It feels so great to be home!”

MC: “but when did you move back here again?”

Not bothering about changing into my slippers, I jumped into my soft couch and shoved my favorite pillow into my arms, feeling extremely satisfied.

Lucien: “After you left.”

Lucien sat beside me, and put on my slippers for me.

MC: “I’ll do it myself.”

I blushed and sat up straight as I looked about subconsciously.

My house was well maintained, just like how it looked like before I left. This feeling gave me the illusion that I haven’t left at all.

My room was still filled with fragrance.

Lucien: “What are you thinking about?”

  Lucien handed me a glass of water.

MC: “Thinking about how I actually came back for real.”

MC: “Until now, I still can’t believe it.”

Lucien: “Yes, it’s a miracle.”

MC: “Did you think that I would never return?”

I deliberately asked him in an angry voice,  but did not expect Lucien’s voice to turn heavy as his hands shook while holding on to the glass of water.

Lucien: “What matters is that you’ve returned, right?”

Lucien: “You won’t leave me again, right?”

I felt that something was wrong when I heard his words, and I straightened up.

MC: “I was only joking just now…”

He tensed up, like a bowstring fully stretched. As I felt that something was off, I felt worried.

I looked around the house, and searched for a topic I can talk about happily.

MC: “Oh,right! The plants along the windows..”

Upon seeing a row of healthy plants, I jumped in surprise, and I widened my eyes..

MC: “Even when I’ve neglected these plants for 6 months, they still grew up well and healthy…”

A black umbrella that was placed against the wall suddenly came into my sight.

I could even smell the fresh rain droplets on the folds of the umbrella.

MC: “Where did this umbrella come from?”

I shook my head, not noticing Lucien appearing behind me.

Lucien: “Come in.”

He pulled up the balcony doors.

I thought I was overthinking it, but I eventually realized that someone lived in this house.

To put it accurately, Lucien had lived here.

I closed the closer doors, and forced myself to calm down.

I then quietly left the bedroom and walked to the living room. I pretended nothing was wrong.

Even though the layout and the furniture were exactly like mine, I already felt suspicious at first glance.

But every corner of the house was full of his traces.

At that moment, he was sitting on the couch, reading a book. The warm yellow sunlight outside glowed around him, setting a peaceful atmosphere.

My chest felt tight, and my heart ached a little.

Perhaps...this was the only way for him to relax after all he had been through.

I sat on the couch while eating fruits, occasionally glancing at Lucien, who was reading,

Should I ask him about it? Or should I wait for him to tell me?

I contemplated, and couldn’t come up with a decision.

My glances towards him which I thought were well concealed, were noticed by Lucien. He walked towards me, and sat beside me on the floor.

Lucien: “Did you want me to sit here so you can stop peeking at me?”

I looked down, too afraid to look him in the eyes.

Lucien: “If you’re tired, do you want to sleep for a while?”

MC: “now? It’s still daytime.”

Lucien: “You should sleep.”

I looked at him, concerned, and nodded.

  MC: “Then I’ll sleep here, okay?”

I patted the small sofa, good enough for a nap.

MC: “I want to sleep at a place where I can see you at the moment I open my eyes.”

His expression changed a little, but agreed nonetheless.

He took a blanket and attentively put it on me. 

MC: “Remember to wake me up later.”

Lucien: “Okay.”

The room got dimmer and cooler as Lucien pulled down the curtains. 

I turned to look at the tips of his hair, and noticed the familiar scent that was comforting as ever.

The tension in me eased. I slowly let my guard down, and closed my eyes.

After a long while, Lucien gently caressed the girl’s hair and her trembling eyelashes as she went through a nightmare.

Lucien: “Are you still able to see them?”   

He gently smiled.

Lucien: “Just sleep soundly.”

Lucien: “As long as you want.”

------chapter 25- 15----

I opened my eyes peacefully,  and could only see a weak, glowing light in the dim room.

It had been a long time since I slept so soundly. I stretched, and took a deep breath.

MC: “Lucien…”

My voice echoed in the room, and it was the only sound I heard. There was no response.

I got up anxiously, and realized that the sky had gotten dark. The time on my phone read 22:15.

MC: “I can’t believe I’ve slept for so long…”

I put my hand on my growling stomach, and went to the kitchen for food as I called out to Lucien.

Even though it was clear that Lucien lived here, I didn’t expect to see only drinks in the fridge. It was cleaner than how a home should be like after being vacant for 6 months.

Lucien: “He… Doesn’t he eat at all?”

I looked around the house once again, and sure enough, Lucien was not around.

Where did he go when it’s this late at night?

I thought I  might as well go outside to look for him, and get some food on my way back.

I walked to the door and as I tried to open it, it was locked tightly.

I was shocked at that moment, but persistently tried to unlock it a few more times. The door  wouldn't budge.

The door was locked from the outside.

My heart was beating rapidly, and my bare feet felt cold. I quickly took out my phone and tried to call Lucien.

Just then, the door opened.

Lucien was wearing his usual outerwear, and froze when he saw me.

Lucien: “Where are you going?”

MC: “I was going to look for you...Where did you go?”

Lucien: “To buy dinner.”

I watched as he put down the bags. There was no other expression on his face, and I felt a little troubled.

MC: “Even so, you didn’t have to lock the door…”

I complained softly, and Lucien didn’t respond. He didn’t explain much, either, as he simply took the food to the kitchen.

As I looked at him from behind, I felt strange.

A voice in my head urged me to ask him, yet another voice was convincing me to give him a little more time, as he had gone through a lot of pain and hardship. 

But I couldn’t let us continue on like this.

I dismissed my thoughts, and called out to him.

MC: “Lucien…”

Lucien stopped and gently looked back. His jawline was clearer under the moonlight, and I realized that he had lost a lot of weight.

MC: “This is… your house, right?”

He paused, and turned to look at me.

Lucien: “Did you realize this from the start?”

Lucien: “Looks like using this method to bring you home was too abrupt, indeed.”

Lucien: “Can you forgive me?”

His unexpected honestly made me hesitate.

 MC: “I...It’s not that I’m angry.”

MC: “You could have just told me.”

MC: “If you say it to me directly, I wouldn’t reject it.”

Both light and shadow were cast on his eyes, as he looked at me quietly.

Lucien: “Okay, I got it.”

MC: “Huh?”

Lucien:Just now you’ve said that you won't reject me.”

Lucien: “So, can we have dinner now?”

...This person is too shameless!

The clock’s hand fell on “12”.

Hearing the sound of water coming from the bathroom, I anxiously rested on the sofa.

Losing my Evol, the released list of evolvers, the odd things Hypnos said, and Lucien acting strangely... 

 I found myself unable to focus on finding back my Evol, and all I could think of was this person.

I had so many mixed thoughts. I walked to the desk, and wanted to write my feelings in my journal, like how I had always done before. However, the cabinet was empty.

Oh, right… that was Lucien’s house.

I still should go back to my own house. At least, I should retrieve what was important to me.

I went to the closet and saw Lucien’s coat. 

In the pockets of his coat, there was a silver key gleaming under the lamp.

I thought I should just go home for a little while… It should be fine, right?

As I reached out to grab the key, I heard the door open softly.

My heart skipped a beat as I turned about. I couldn't breathe at that moment.

There were still droplets on his face, and I didn’t dare to look at his cold, narrow eyes.

MC: “Lucien? I…”

Before I could finish, I felt a pain in my wrist. He grabbed my wrists tightly before I could scream.

Unable to resist his strength, I fell towards him, and I felt the world spin around me. My back hurt a little due to the impact, but what hurt me more was the expression the man in front of me had.

One of his hands was on the door as he shoved me against the wall. I could almost see the panic in his eyes.

I was dumbfounded and my body felt cold. I accidentally bumped into the light switch behind me, and the room went dark. 

Lucien: “Didn’t you say that you won't leave me?”

His cold tone reminded me of the vision I saw in my dream.

My vision felt hazy, and even though I managed to escape countless times in my mind, I still couldn't avoid it then.

I was tensed, like I was being suffocated.

It felt like I was being overwhelmed by an immense shadow. My body trembled as I tried to break free, but I couldn’t move my hands.

Lucien’s eyes gleamed as he seemed to have thought of something. He looked down and leaned on my shoulder gently.

His soft hair brushed against my cheeks, and the pressure on my wrists were loosened gradually. At that moment, I swiftly pulled away subconsciously.

Lucien: “I’m sorry.”

Lucien: “It seems that I’ve hurt you time and time again.”

His hand gently touched my neck, as his fingertips slightly trembled.

I felt bitter. I bit my lip and turned away firmly.

Lucien: “I’m sorry.”

Lucien: “These words... are for you back then.”

Lucien: “Mc… can you still forgive me?”

The haze in front of me subsided gradually, as I heard his breathing on my ears, close and warm. I calmed down a little.

I looked at Lucien, and lowered my eyes after a long while.

MC: “ I can’t.” 

*glass shattering sound* Something seemed to be shattered in the soundless room.