Made this list for my own reference and any one else who’s interested. Will try to keep this up to date. If I’ve made any mistakes or am missing any links, please let me know.
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⌚Warning⌚ This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 都会之约, that is yet to be released on the global server! ♡
[Translation under the cut]
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【Subbed Video】
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【Important Notes】
some of you might already know this, especially those of you who follow my translations, but still gonna explain since it’s the pivotal point of this date 🤭
The term “哥哥” (gēge) literally translates to “elder brother”, you might be more familiar with the Korean or Japanese alternatives of this term (oppa/ onii-chan). if not used to address your own elder brother, you wouldn’t dare to use it with just anyone – so, when a Chinese girl addresses a boy as her “gege”, she’d use it to address sb she has a very close/ intimate relationship with, address her boyfriend, or take the leap and address a guy she has a crush on to be cutesy LOL. which is why the use of “gege” in this date is so multifaceted — the term which was initially used as a courtesy becomes a “barrier” in fear of being “friend-zoned”, but makes come back in the parts when used by MC’s friends to tease her or when MC hesitates to address him as “gege” in private b/c of the crush connotation haha.
✦ the use of “gege” with the connotation of boyfriend/ crush prevails in the canon verse too, MC used to address Li Zeyan by this term when they were little and after the first comeback, we’ve had MC use this term many times in the past years: ♡
setting and timeline:
the present day story takes place in New York, around 1925/27, and before the great depression (1929).
Hubbubs of laughter intermittently resonate from the stretch convertible as it glides through the night, weaving through the distant and nearby lights before coming to a halt in the front courtyard of the mansion.
Myself and a few female friends of mine, slightly tipsy and carrying a faint scent of alcohol, support the ornate headpieces wobbling on our heads as we step down from the car, laughing and playfully nudging one another.
Female Friend: Can you believe Jennifer actually invited that actor! Seriously, when our eyes met, I was practically drowning in those eyes; I didn’t even hear a word he said…
Thinking back to that man whose words were dripped with flattery, I lazily let out a yawn.
MC: Enough, Louise. Perhaps your brain is just filtering out those unpleasant bits of news, you know?
MC: He should thank his lucky stars for starring in a silent movie; otherwise, no one would buy into his performance.
MC: If it weren’t for Jennifer, the editor-in-chief, insisting, I wouldn’t even want to mention his name in the article chronicling tonight’s nightlife… it’s just a waste of space for another line.
Amidst the laughter of the girls, I suddenly seem to feel a certain gaze on me. I stop talking and turn my eyes in the direction of home. Sure enough, I spot a familiar figure.
With one hand resting on the marble railing of the terrace, Li Zeyan looks in my direction, his eyes lowered. The light outlines his physique, carving out a slender silhouette.
Through the thick darkness of the night, those somber eyes lock with mine for a moment. Then, he turns and walks into the villa.
Female Friend: Would you look at that, your old-fashioned gege is still awake at this hour… Could he be waiting for you?
I receive a teasing elbow nudge from my friend, but I offer no retort.
“Old-fashioned.” That term does seem to match him quite well.
In this era where there is never any shortage of merrymaking, he rarely makes appearances at gatherings like banquets and social clubs.
Tonight, before heading out, I asked him if he would like to accompany me, and unsurprisingly, I was met with a rejection.
—
───── [FLASHBACK STARTS] ─────
LZY: No, I have no intention of attending.
LZY: It’s not that I have any other rendezvous to make an appearance at, but I do have more pressing matters to take care of.
LZY: You go ahead, but don’t stay out too late.
───── [FLASHBACK ENDS] ─────
—
Perhaps he does have something else he’s really eager to pursue, or perhaps he simply wants to steer clear of certain people… who knows?
Reflecting on the unexplained decrease in our interactions since becoming adults, a hint of melancholy suddenly settles into my heart. I press my lips together, incline my head, and speak nonchalantly as if unaffected.
MC: [blushing] It isn’t something worth caring about, is it? Anyway, he’s not my “real gege”...
──────────
Creak—
The sound of the gate slowly being pushed open rings out in my ears. I turn my head and see Li Zeyan behind the door, quietly arching an eyebrow. Undoubtedly, he has heard what I just said.
A flicker of guilt passes through me. Aware of my companions’ fixed gazes behind me, I walk into the house with my chest held high, close the door behind me, and walk past Li Zeyan.
LZY: Had a good time?
MC: Oh, it was pretty good… the atmosphere at the whole banquet was quite lively.
MC: Jennifer also showed us the new gemstone she recently bought. It was so… sparkling!
I nonchalantly remove my gloves and fling them onto the sofa, envy in my eyes as I raise my hands to gesture an approximate size in front of Li Zeyan. A light chuckle reaches my ears.
LZY: If you fancy it, you can expect to receive an even finer one in the future.
MC: [blushing] I wish, but the qualities of the gemstones in New York in recent times have been really unappealing.
Li Zeyan’s eyes travel over my absent-mindedly pursed lips, but he doesn’t comment on anything. Instead, he simply taps his fingertips on the staircase railing rhythmically.
The air lapses into silence again, with only the swaying shadows of the trees playing on the floor of the hall. I stifle a yawn and walk past him as if nothing has happened.
MC: Alright, I’m going to go and hit the hay in my room. Tomorrow, there’s still…
LZY: MC.
Suddenly, a low whisper reaches my ears from behind. My hand gripping the railing pauses, and I stand on the stairs, turning to look back at Li Zeyan.
His intense gaze bores deep into me, and the emotions in his deep-set eyes appear more complex and difficult to discern than at any time in the past. After a moment, he finally speaks.
LZY: There’s something I believe I need to tell you.
LZY: Next week, I’ll be moving away from home.
MC: …
My lips part, and my heart suddenly pauses for one beat. My eyes wander over his face, trying to find any hint of jest in his words.
Did he say this in a fit of pique because of what I said earlier? But he’s clearly not the kind of person to behave like this…
While I stare at him with bewilderment and helplessness, Li Zeyan offers me no additional explanation. His brooding eyes trace over the intentionally rolled-up hem of my skirt before resting on my face.
LZY: Your father is waiting for us in the living room.
LZY: Come over after you’ve changed your clothes.
—
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
—
【Chapter 2】
I rush back to my room at lightning speed and take off the intricate and ornate feather headpiece from my head.
After changing into a dress that won’t elicit resigned criticism from my father, I head down the stairs in the direction of the living room, my mind in turmoil.
The sparkling crystal chandelier bathes the spacious room ahead in bright light. From a distance, I can hear the sound of gratified laughter, intermingled with my father’s heartfelt sighs.
MC’s Father: …Zeyan, don’t ever speak such words. If the disaster of that year had befallen me, your parents would have made the same choice.
MC’s Father: I remember when you first came to this home, MC was only five years old–– clinging to you all the time like a piece of sticky candy, oblivious to day and night. [1]
MC: Why is it that the moment I step in, I hear you speaking ill of me~
I walk over to my father and give him a kiss on the cheek, then take my seat next to Li Zeyan naturally.
He holds my gaze briefly before averting his eyes, but his tone carries a subtle softness that is almost imperceptible.
LZY: She was no bother. If anything, I find myself missing those times, too.
LZY: A plate of cookies was all she needed, and she’d joyfully sit by my desk, reading storybooks with me all night long.
MC: …I also really liked gege back then. No matter the time, you were always there to accompany me.
My father laughs, a wistful expression on his face. I also lift the corners of my lips to match the atmosphere, but my gaze lingers inquisitively on Li Zeyan’s elegant side profile.
Leaving… why did he have this idea all of a sudden?
I used to believe that no matter how much time elapsed… he would naturally remain by my side as a matter of course.
But this decision that came like a bolt from the blue seems to be telling me that I’m the only one who thought that way.
LZY: Yes, I’ve been keeping an eye on a promising aviation company. Their airplanes…
LZY: A number of stocks I acquired in the past few years have yielded good profits. After liquidating, my plans for the next steps include…
A baritone voice resounds from the seat next to me. Li Zeyan is recounting eloquently, seemingly answering some questions from my father, but I can’t pay attention in the slightest.
MC’s Father: …MC, won’t you raise a glass to your gege’s future?
My lower leg under the long table is gently touched, snapping me back to reality. I glance over to see Li Zeyan leisurely leaning back in his chair, his leather shoe brushing past me.
The brief touch just now was probably just an inadvertent act since he was shifting his sitting posture. However, it brings my attention to the fact that I’ve been staring at him for quite some time.
I let out a cough as an afterthought and quickly glance at my father.
MC: My apologies, I was a little lost in my thoughts just now, so…
MC’s Father: Of course, I am just as reluctant to part with him as you are… but I’m confident that when the time is right, Zeyan will come back to visit us.
This matter-of-fact comforting solace sweeps over my heart, gently veiling a certain “expectation” that I have never voiced.
An indescribable sourness swells within me. I raise my wine glass towards Li Zeyan beside me, wearing the same naive and coquettish smile as usual.
MC: …gege, here’s to every expectation of yours turning into reality.
Li Zeyan lowers his eyes, his slender fingertips promptly picking up a goblet glass from the table. Then, he leans in slightly towards me.
Accompanied by the soft clink of glasses, his deep and low voice resonates in my ears.
LZY: Thank you. I really like this toast.
LZY: I’ll turn these words into reality.
──────────
The moonlight behind the floor-to-ceiling windows filters through the sheer curtains, casting long and slender beams. I toss and turn on the soft bed for a long time before finally sitting up.
…Even if everything seems to be set in stone, I still want to fight for that last shred of possibility to make this man stay.
–
It’s very late at night, and the corridor is empty and quiet. I tread lightly past the door of my father’s room, then head briskly towards Li Zeyan’s room at the end of the corridor.
From a distance, I can see a sliver of light escaping from the room–– to my surprise, his door is only partially closed.
A soft meow reaches my ears. Holding my breath, I watch Li Zeyan seated on the sofa, comforting Betty, whose hind paws are entangled in a ball of yarn.
He cradles it in his arms with one hand, and his well-defined hand trails down the cat’s back, with a touch just right that is neither too firm nor too gentle, preventing its struggling attempts.
His fingertips swiftly probe into the entangled mess of threads. With a few simple movements, the trapped paws are liberated.
Betty: Meow~
Betty purrs contentedly, nuzzling its head against Li Zeyan’s shoulder. His eyes also seem to be dyed with a subtle smile.
The familiar scene overlaps with memories of the past, and suddenly, I feel a little dazed.
—
───── [FLASHBACK STARTS] ─────
Under the ardent daylight, the greenery in the courtyard stretched ponderously.
The doors and windows lining both sides of the mansion had been opened early in the morning, allowing the summer breeze to weave through unhindered, bringing with it a touch of rare, refreshing coolness.
I was huffing in anger as I strode down the corridor, heading towards Li Zeyan’s room in the most familiar manner, intending to “interrogate” him.
MC: GEGE! Did you stop…
I walked into his room, only to find a profound silence all around. Li Zeyan was lying on the sofa with his eyes closed and seemed to have drifted off to sleep.
Perhaps to block the dancing spots of dazzling sunlight, he casually rested the back of his left hand on his forehead, casting a gentle shadow over his eyelids.
His slender legs were rarely in such a relaxed posture, crossing casually. The business book in his hand had slipped to the floor at some point; its pages were blown by the breeze, producing a rustling sound.
Without realizing it, I lightened my steps and walked to the side of the sofa. I gazed at his dark strands of hair cascading down, gently resting on the prominent bridge of his nose.
Perhaps it was the light, but I suddenly noticed that there seemed to be some subtle changes on this face that I saw day and night.
Had his jawline become sharper? Or perhaps the knuckles of his hands seemed a little more pronounced? I couldn’t quite put my finger on it.
I could only feel my heartbeat accelerating for no apparent reason, as though something that had been overlooked for a long time was now breaking through the surface.
As if drawn by an inexplicable attraction, I involuntarily leaned down towards him, wanting to touch his cheek.
The next moment, I saw Li Zeyan suddenly open his eyes and lift his hand to clasp my wrist.
LZY: You…
He spoke in a low voice, his tone still carrying a hint of drowsiness. It seemed he regarded everything to be a dream.
His eyes took on a softer expression, and the hold of his palm on my hand did not loosen. Instead, he drew me even closer to him.
His breath caressed my face, and I could almost see my own reflection in his eyes. It was like almost in the next second, we would–––
MC’s Father: Where did you run off to… Betty?
My father’s inquiring voice suddenly echoed from a distance, akin to a pebble thrown into a lake, shattering the interplay of light and shadows before me.
Li Zeyan was frozen for a moment, and then a clarity flashed in his eyes as if finally waking up. He let go of my wrist. Suppressing the ineffable emotions in my heart, I swiftly distanced myself slightly.
LZY: …Why did you come in out of the blue?
MC: …the door was already ajar, and I didn’t know you were sleeping…
I muttered softly, but then I suddenly recalled something, my voice gaining a touch of confidence.
MC: I also have a question to ask. When James checked with you about whether I was available for a trip to the island next week, why did you reject him on my behalf?
Li Zeyan didn’t respond right away; he lowered his hand and picked up the rumpled book from the carpet.
LZY: Your father mentioned we have to go to the horse ranch next week; looks like you forgot.
LZY: Besides, there is no need to get involved with a guy whose family business is going downhill, yet he still dates a different girl every week.
MC: [girlie is stumped and flushed haha] But before this, you said about Oren that he was secretly lingering in underground bars!
Li Zeyan calmly flipped open a page, not making eye contact with me.
LZY: [HEAVENS THE WAY HIS TONE DROPS HERE] I’m simply stating the facts. Besides, you’ll have better choices.
MC: Like who?
In my frustration, I kept pushing for an answer, but then, the air suddenly lapsed into silence, and Li Zeyan’s fingertips also came to a pause.
My heart suddenly began racing by a few beats, and I stood up from the sofa in an attempt to conceal myself.
MC: …anyway, I won’t allow you to interfere in this matter anymore!
In a rush, I walked towards the door as I spoke. But suddenly, I heard Li Zeyan calling out my name.
I turned around. The daylight outside the window had already transformed into the fading colors of twilight, and with that light falling on his back, I heard him speak.
LZY: I will give you that answer in the future.
LZY: Until then, don’t barge into my room unannounced like this again.
───── [FLASHBACK ENDS] ─────
────
[Tidbits]:
[1] MC’s dad mentions a specific type of candy here (牛皮糖 - nǚpítáng), which is made from sugar and sesame seeds; and has a chewy and sticky texture.
—
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—
【Chapter 3】
LZY: Come on inside, I haven’t locked the door.
Li Zeyan’s voice suddenly transmits from the room. I snap back to reality, only to realize that my hand, which I raised to knock, has been hanging in mid-air for quite some time.
Tightening my lips, I calmly walk into the room and seat myself next to him on the sofa, my eyes scanning the room.
In the long time that followed afterward, I have refrained from setting foot in this room again. In stark contrast to my memories, the surroundings appear conspicuously emptier.
In one corner of the room, a leather suitcase lay open… the realization of the fact that this person is leaving suddenly becomes palpable.
LZY: You’re here at this hour; is something wrong?
MC: [blushing] …you can’t leave!
Two voices collide in unison. Before I can even register the situation, I have already grabbed hold of his hand.
LZY: …
The hazy lighting interweaves with the moonlight, and something seems to flash across Li Zeyan’s expression for a brief moment.
A searing warmth transmits from his palm, and in belated realization, I draw back my fingertips. However, I feel my hand being discreetly clasped, as if he is unwilling to let me escape.
LZY: What’s your reason for saying that?
MC: It’s not for any reason. I just want… gege to always remain by my side.
Even though it has been a long time since I have addressed him by that term when we are alone with each other, I still purposely soften my tone. I can’t help but expect that Li Zeyan would, just like in our childhood, give me that helpless glance and yield to my coquettish demands.
A silence hangs in the air as Li Zeyan lowers his gaze to mine. In the next moment, his palm enveloping my wrist loosens ever so slightly.
LZY: MC, I am not the same as the toys you wanted when we were little.
LZY: Just the word that you “want” this is not a reason enough to sway me.
I’m slightly stumped and speak without thinking.
MC: But we’ve been living a good life for all this time, haven’t we?
MC: We have the ancestral estates and assets, a steady stream of income… I don’t understand why you’d want to make any changes.
Li Zeyan lets out a very soft chuckle and tilts his head towards the window.
The lights of the distant structures shimmer brightly, reminiscent of a flowing banquet in the boundless night. They reflect in his eyes, exuding a mix of pride and ambition.
LZY: There is nothing in this world that remains unchanged forever, MC.
LZY: Even the prosperity that you indulge in today began after the soldiers returned from the European battlefield.
LZY: Everything we see now was beyond imagination just a few years ago.
LZY: This era can sweep away all outdated existence, and at the same time, it can also give people everything they desire… as long as they can grab hold of it.
Li Zeyan shifts his gaze back to me as he says this. Even though his tone seems to be gentler than usual, it also carries a hint of unswerving determination.
LZY: So, I had already made this decision a long time ago.
MC: …when?
Did it stem from the day he made his first profit in the stock market, relying on his own business acumen? Or was it when he caught the wind of the other “old money” people gossiping about him? Or perhaps it was even earlier?
In a state of bewilderment and urgency, I await a response, but Li Zeyan doesn’t answer my question. Instead, he just gazes at me fixedly, leaning slightly in my direction.
The tranquil glow of the lights paints his eyelashes, and my heart pounds wildly as I watch Li Zeyan approach. He lifts his hand, tucking a strand of hair that was lingering by my cheek behind my ear––
–– like an explanation, or perhaps a reassuring promise.
LZY: [in the most tender tone possible x1] I am so happy that you’re here to persuade me to stay.
LZY: [x2] But, there are certain things I want that I can only obtain by leaving.
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Jennifer: Alright, honey, I’m not here to rush you about the manuscript or anything, even though that special column you promised me has been overdue for a solid three weeks~
My friend’s teasing reaches me through the light fabric. I pull down the covers sullenly, glancing at the blonde girl sitting at the edge of the bed.
MC: Once I’m back in the writing zone, I’ll submit it to the magazine first thing… but, setting that aside, did you manage to find out any news about him?
Even though I don’t explicitly utter Li Zeyan’s name, Jennifer shrugs her shoulders.
Jennifer: You know, your gege rarely attends any banquets within the circle.
Jennifer: I’ve been making discreet inquiries on the airline side, but all I’ve found is that there’s this new guy named Victor, whose company has become a rising star in the industry… but it doesn’t seem to have any connections with him.
—
[T/N]: Yes, his writers are using his EN name “Victor” as his pseudonym 😂😂
—
I press my lips together, thinking back to the day Li Zeyan left and how I was so angry that I refused to see him for one last time.
If only I had known earlier, I would have abandoned those inexplicable emotions, opened the door, and had a few words with him.
Jennifer: I have an idea. What if we were to spread the word that you’re planning to hold a banquet at the estate next month to reveal the person you’ve chosen to be your fiancé?
Jennifer: If he does have the intention toward you, there is no way he will able to keep it hidden.
I blink. This suggestion sends a few ripples through my heart–– daring as it is, it might be the most effective method.
With my tacit approval, this piece of news spreads from the mansion along with Jennifer’s departure, gradually circulating from one banquet to another.
Half a month slips away rapidly, yet I still don’t hear any updates. The day of the banquet approaches amidst apprehension and anticipation.
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Large swaths of Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium orchids embellish various corners of the entire property, delicate and beautiful. Under the crystal chandeliers, the elegant fragrance of the flowers intermingle with the intense scent of perfumes, pervading the air.
With a smile, I express thanks or greetings to those who approach to congratulate me in pairs or groups, but my eyes continue to search for that figure I’ve been waiting for amidst the passing crowd.
Suddenly, a figure in a suit and leather shoes blocks my sight. A tall man walks over, raising his glass in a toast toward me.
Man: I’m Adam Arnott, a classmate of Jennifer’s from the academy.
The surname makes me realize that he hails from another wealthy family. I nod politely. However, the man shows no intention of leaving.
Man: I heard from Jennifer that you have a column in her magazine? Honestly, I find that quite impressive.
Man: In terms of killing time, it’s much more meaningful than being obsessed about choosing jewelry. Perhaps we can chat more…
Despite his courteous choice of words, the subtle condescension in his language leaves me agitated. I turn sideways with indifference, picking up a cupcake.
MC: Allow me to correct you. I don’t consider it as “something to kill time.” Had you read my articles, you wouldn’t have had that kind of judgment.
Man: Miss MC, you surely do not treat it as some serious work, do you? Forgive my bluntness, but it seems rather meaningless for people like us.
The way his attitude drips of being pampered as though he were a prince causes me to furrow my brows. Subconsciously, Li Zeyan’s image surfaces in my mind.
MC: Well, in that case, here’s to the everlasting prosperity of your family’s business… however, I’ve heard that nothing in this world remains unchanged forever.
The other party probably wasn’t expecting me to counter like this, causing the expression on his face to turn somewhat unpleasant.
Man: Why don’t we ask the talk of the town, the “new money” person, and whose viewpoint he stands by… Mr. Victor?
I nonchalantly turn my head and observe this rumored aviation tycoon from behind, involuntarily raising an eyebrow.
His slender physique is wrapped in a royal blue suit, complemented by a black and white polka dot tie around his neck. He stands out among the crowd of men, looking effortless yet debonair.
–– It’s the men’s fashion style I recommended in my articles. This person has actually read my column very carefully.
The corners of my lips can’t help but curl up slightly, watching that tall, straight figure turn around. But the instant I clearly see his visage, my lips part involuntarily.
With my heart beating like a drum, he walks to my side at a pace that is neither too fast nor too slow, bringing with him a subtle scent of sandalwood.
LZY: Of course, I stand by her viewpoint.
—
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
—
【Chapter 4】
My eyes widen, and my gaze sweeps across the face of the person in front of me without even a single blink.
Perhaps due to the Southern sunshine, his complexion seems a shade deeper compared to the last time we saw each other, but his facial contours appear to be even more pronounced.
The fringes that he used to groom in a “proper” manner have now been slicked back into the trendiest hairstyle of the moment, showcasing his deep-set eyes and prominently arched eyebrows.
A pair of thin-rimmed glasses rest halfway on the bridge of his nose, not quite settled, and he casually pushes them up with his finger pad.
Through the lenses, a glimmer of smile seems to be shining in those deep eyes… or perhaps revealing certain emotions that were veiled in the past, but now, at this moment, seem evident with greater clarity.
LZY: The cream is about to melt.
As Li Zeyan speaks, he effortlessly takes the wobbling cupcake from my hand.
His broad and slender hand, wrapped in a moon-white glove, extends to pass me a piece of handkerchief.
Casual and comfortable, as if it weren’t a reunion after so long of separation, but rather our everyday interaction from back when we were still together at home.
I suppress the indescribable mix of sourness and joy in my heart, watching as the man converses with the people around him before raising an eyebrow.
Man: Ah, so you’re so Miss MC’s gege? Well, I suppose that explains your biased comment.
LZY: I believe the words I said just now are sufficiently objective.
LZY: If I’m not mistaken, with the inauguration of transatlantic flight routes, the stocks of shipping companies dropped at least ten percent. Your family’s business should be no exception.
LZY: To be able to maintain such unwavering optimism even in the midst of all these… I must say, Mr. Arnott’s attitude is truly admirable.
The man’s countenance grows slightly more ashen, while Li Zeyan stands next to me, calmly raising his glass to the crowd.
LZY: I rarely attend any social gatherings, so I haven’t formally announced it in a public setting. But six months ago, I had already disaffiliated myself from MC’s family.
LZY: And I’m not attending this banquet today in the identity of her “gege.”
I don’t know if it’s my illusion, but the tone of his latter statement seemed to have a slightly slower pace, triggering my heartbeat to accelerate uncontrollably.
Not as my “gege”… then, in what identity did he come? Perhaps, he knows about the news I’ve put out?
I clink my goblet glass with him, trying my hardest to maintain my usual casual expression, and lift my head slightly.
MC: I suppose I ought to be thanking you. After all, you’ve just returned, and here you are, immediately coming to my rescue.
Li Zeyan and I hold each other’s gazes for a brief moment. A subtle curve graces the corners of his lips as he also softens his voice.
LZY: I was being sincere, though.
LZY: I haven’t missed a single column you’ve written in 《The New Yorker》.
A wave of warmth accompanies his words, traveling from my ears to the throbbing center in my chest.
I gaze into those familiar and serene eyes, gently tapping the tie hanging down from his neck.
MC: Well, in that case, allow this writer to make one more suggestion.
MC: If it were replaced with a corrugated pattern in the same color, it would complement your suit today even better.
Li Zeyan sets down the goblet glass in his hand on the long table.
LZY: I didn’t bring an extra tie. Can I leave it to your care?
MC: Of course, come with me.
As I speak, my hand that was initially reaching to grasp his palm pauses mid-motion, and in the end, I settle for only holding onto his cuff.
He and I walk through the clustered bouquets of flowers and the crowd of people in their fragrant clothes, making our way toward the upper floor of the hall in a manner that couldn’t be more familiar.
Eyes from all around fall upon our departing figures. I don’t know if these people noticed anything, but I don’t care either.
All I know is that from the moment of parting, the thought that I painstakingly disregarded for the longest time became gradually clear: I desire to be with him in an identity that goes beyond our familial ties.
Will he be angry? Or will he helplessly discourage my intentions? Or perhaps, in reality, he does harbor certain unspoken feelings towards me…
──────────
Suppressing my tumultuous heartbeat, I close the door, and the chatter and music outside finally fade away.
The air falls silent for a moment. I let go of Li Zeyan’s cuff, turn around to rummage through the intricate accessories, and speak as if casually inquiring.
MC: Finally, I can breathe a sigh of relief… have you had a chance to meet Daddy yet?
LZY: [the muted joy in his tone HHHHH] Yeah, I went to his room to say hello after coming back, and we talked for a long time.
MC: Ah, he must’ve been so delighted; after all, he reminisces about you every now and then. “If Zeyan were here…,” is a sentence he says more often than not.
I exaggeratedly mimic my father’s manner of speaking, and my eyes secretly fall on Li Zeyan, hoping to catch his expression.
MC: You said earlier, “not as my gege”... then, in what identity are you here?
Maintaining a brisk tone, I continue sifting through without pausing my movements, as if this will be able to cloak my erratic heartbeat.
Li Zeyan doesn’t answer my question, and his footsteps come to a stop behind me. Even though there is a somewhat elusive distance between us, I can almost feel his body heat.
LZY: I’m not the one who can give that answer.
I turn around, somewhat puzzled, only to see a black, gold-plated box being extended towards me.
The huge ruby inside, set against the velvet backdrop, sparkles with a flash of dazzling brilliance.
MC: This…
LZY: A gift for you. A certain someone mentioned before that the quality of gemstones in New York isn’t good enough these days.
LZY: So, it was transported here on my company’s first transatlantic flight, all the way from Europe.
Li Zeyan removes the ruby from the box as he speaks, placing it in the palm of my hand.
The slight coolness of the gemstone accompanies the warmth of his fingertips, and I hear Li Zeyan speak in a soft tone.
LZY: Even the most impossible fantasies can become reality.
LZY: MC, as long as you say the word.
I’m utterly dazed, suddenly recalling the brief conversation we had under the stairs the night before Li Zeyan left.
From the past to the present, he has always borne the weight of all my wishes, even if I’ve only mentioned them in passing.
The sound of my heartbeat drums against my ears. Without uttering a word, I simply tug on his tie and rise on tiptoes towards this man who used to be my “gege.”
The distance between us bridges bit by bit, my somewhat quivering breath fanning across Li Zeyan’s face.
He watches me in complete silence, his eyes burning. He seems to be waiting for some form of confirmation, yet he doesn’t evade my actions.
That is, until, a fleeting kiss lands on the edge of his lips, and we briefly exchange our warmth with each other. I pull back slightly, avert my eyes, and speak.
MC: …what if this is what I desire?
LZY: …
I don’t hear his response. In the next second, my waist is suddenly shackled in place.
A deep kiss, which has been held in check for a long time, finally descends, erasing the last vestige of distance.
Two sets of lips that have never touched each other before roll back and forth, their inexperienced and slightly shaky intertwining exchange breaths that have long been familiar but never explored so deeply.
In those eyes of his, I see emotions mirroring my own. Patiently restrained feelings, a fluttering heart… but now added with a touch of certainty.
LZY: I’ve probably held onto this expectation for longer than you.
LZY: What I longed for has always been right there within sight… and you made it a reality for me.
The brilliant chandelier overhead leaves shimmering spots in the field of vision, leaving one slightly dizzy. It feels like a firework that has been brewing for a long time has finally burst forth.
Turns out, we both harbored the same feelings all along.
The eyes that turned to look back when we passed by each other, the hands that reached out to touch only to retract… all the entanglements and poignant emotions of the past gently dissipate in this moment.
I close my eyes and hear his voice resonate, but now carrying with it a deeper undertone of mirth than ever before.
LZY: Allow this gem to be a commemoration of this special occasion.
LZY: For that first dance in a while, how about sharing it with me?
────────────────────────────────
[Tidbits]:
[2] so in love with this imagery here. “白月光” (white moonlight) in chinese means first love but it comes with the connotation of something “unattainable.” here, it’s the color of his gloves, the “barrier” between their hands truly touching~ 🤧
[3] “ruby” is a symbol of passion, protection, everlasting love-- indeed the perfect move for Li Zeyan to choose this stone as his ~betrothal gift~ 🥺
[4] welp, if it wasn’t clear already LOL, sharing the “first dance” at this banquet is their official announcement of their engagement~ 🤭🤧
[CN] MLQC Lucien's "Wicked" Date English Translation (Part 2/2)
⚠️ SPOILER ALERT!! ⚠️
This post contains a detailed spoiler for a date that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~
"MC, I want to be your husband, may I?"
"If you want to be my husband... you'll have to tell me what kind of husband you are, right?"
"Well…"
"I can understand her feelings, accompany her on her journey, and of course, I have a bit of a romantic streak."
Translation under the cut!
Previous Part-> [Here]
-
[Part 3]
Host: Ladies and gentlemen, please cheer for everything amazing before your eyes-
Audience: Wow-
Applause rises like a tidal wave. Ribbons and petals float in this space, and the colorful lights reflect everything under the tent in a dazzling display.
Dressed in costumes, actors enter the stage surrounded by the audience.
Muscular acrobats, exaggeratedly painted clowns, and mysterious black-clad magicians…
I didn't expect that the place Lucien brought me for our date was a circus!
MC: It's so lively!
Lucien: Haven't you seen a circus performance before?
MC: No. When I was in my… hometown, my fiancé wanted to take me to one, but I didn't go.
My enthusiasm is entirely focused on the performance in front of me. I casually answer Lucien's question, and he raises an eyebrow after he hears my answer.
Lucien: Fiancé…?
MC: That foolish man doesn't matter; the wedding is off anyway.
Lucien: Hahaha!
Lucien has always spoken gently since we met, yet now he laughs so joyfully for the first time. I can't help but turn to look at him.
MC: In our small rural area, discussions about weddings tend to happen early. Is there any problem?
Lucien: Mm, of course there's nothing wrong with what you did.
Lucien: Nowadays, girls shouldn't be confined by marriage too early.
Lucien: I'm honored that your first time watching a circus performance is with me.
My ears slightly warm up, but there's a small voice in my head murmuring—
Is he genuinely happy to watch the performance with me, or is this just a typical pick-up line?
...Sweet words that are said just to jolly a girl can't be trusted.
After the lively and adorable animal parade, we quickly move on to the acrobatics segment.
Actress: For today's show, we would like to invite two lucky guests to join us and participate in the performance together.
Actress: Let this bouquet of violets find the two lucky individuals!
The actress and her partner lift the bouquet of violets, mysteriously twirling them in the field.
Applause and cheers erupt from all directions as everyone hopes the lucky bouquet will land in their hands. I subconsciously widen my eyes and sit up a bit straighter.
Lucien: Do you want it too?
MC: I... don't particularly want it.
Lucien: But Miss MC is gripping my sleeve tighter and tighter.
MC: ….!
I just realized I was grabbing onto Lucien's clothes. Just as I am about to let go, Lucien turns his wrist and catches one of my fingers.
The actress has reached our seating area. Finally, she extends her hand and throws the bouquet. The crowd immediately surges, eager to snatch it.
At the same moment, Lucien stands up slightly, reaches out his hand, and with a swift motion, grabs the bouquet just before everyone's fingertips can touch the petals, firmly holding it in his hand.
MC: You got it so easily?!
Lucien: It's just a simple calculation of the parabola's trajectory, it's not difficult.
Lucien: So, does the "not particularly interested" Miss want to be a lucky audience member with the "particularly interested" me?
He utters these words while his other hand gently caresses my index finger.
It feels like some ambiguous suggestion, yet at the same time, it's as innocent as gently stroking a cat's fur.
After just a few short hours, I find myself standing on the stage in front of everyone again.
The performance is quite simple, requiring me to coordinate with the actions of the two actors and hand over the corresponding props as needed.
Despite being just a performance embellishment; I'm still nervous and my limbs feel a bit stiff.
Lucien: (whispers comfortingly) Don't be nervous, we're not the focus of the show.
MC: But…
Lucien: The first key of being a wicked person is to keep your face straight no matter the situation.
Lucien's voice suddenly echoes from my side. I bite my lip and hand the green pom pom to him.
MC: Like an actor?
Lucien: Yes, just like them.
I follow his gaze and look at the platform above my head.
The pair of actors stand on the narrow, isolated platform, yet their expressions remain confident and joyful.
With the rhythm of the music, they perform various breathtaking performances on the stage.
Lucien: For example, the two actors on the platform right now, I think they're probably more nervous than the both of us.
Lucien: But they have already adapted to this world.
Lucien says as he rings the bell and, in the next moment, the two leap down from the high platform—
Amid a chorus of gasps, the two spin and land on the cushion. However, the next moment, as the actress stands up, I notice a slight wobble in her posture.
Did she twist something?
—Even if injured, do you still have to adapt to this world?
I can't tell what emotions drive me, but I take big strides and grab the actress's hand, whispering something to her.
MC: You can lean on me.
Actress: ….! Thank you.
She obediently shifts her weight onto me, and in coordination, we perform the final bow together.
Thunderous applause fills the air.
And the corner of my eye catches Lucien who is standing a few steps away, he's also applauding in my direction.
After the show, the actress calls out to me as she's supported by her partner.
Actress: I want to personally thank you, Miss.
Actress: If you hadn't supported me, I might not have been able to complete the final move. In that case, the performance might have…
MC: There's no need to go out of your way to thank me. I believe anyone would have lent you a hand in that situation.
Actress: No, if it wasn't for you… I'd probably be a laughing stock in tomorrow's paper.
MC: What do you mean?
I'm a bit stunned. The actress then turns to Lucien, giving him a slight bow.
Actress: Likewise, thank you very much for not stopping your female companion from helping me.
Lucien: I just don't want the performance team I invested in to make such a trivial mistake and cause unnecessary gossip.
Lucien's tone remains indifferent; the actress smiles knowingly and doesn't say much more, then slowly turns to leave.
I look at Lucien, and he doesn't avoid my gaze.
Lucien: Are you surprised? The changing times inevitably lead to the reversal of morality. Others' pain is just a sideshow in today's entertainment.
MC: I'm not surprised by that... Aren't you a scriptwriter?
MC: But then you just said you invested in this circus?!
Lucien: Is there any problem?
Lucien mimicked my tone and words from earlier and spread his hands.
Lucien: Here, whether man or woman, one can have many roles and do whatever they desire.
Lucien: Being a scriptwriter and an investor is just one of my many identities.
Lucien: Aren't you also seeking a new identity for yourself?
MC: Well, that's true…
Although I just caught a glimpse of the darker side of this city, I don't feel overly scared or disheartened.
MC: Lucien, if I become "wicked", can I still help others as I did just now?
Lucien: Of course, you can.
Lucien: In fact, people who dare to do such things are the ones who can become winners in this era.
MC: Well, then I have plenty of courage in that regard!
His affirmative words ignite the almost extinguished flame as if something is about to sear through my heart.
MC: I want to spread my greater influence in this world. Which direction do you think I should strive towards?
MC: Becoming an actress seems a bit challenging... How about a business tycoon? Or maybe a poet? Or should I try my hand at directing?
Lucien: (chuckles gently) They all sound suitable for you.
Lucien: I didn't expect you to have such grand ambitions.
MC: After all, as Victor Hugo put it, "The ideal applied to real facts is civilization".
The moment I blurt it out, my throat tightens. When I look up again, I inevitably meet Lucien's scrutinizing gaze that's tinged with a hint of a smile.
Lucien: Does the waitress in the restaurant now also read "William Shakespeare"?
MC: Eh… I….
MC: It's getting late, I should go home now.
I don't know how to explain, so I abruptly changed the topic. Surprisingly, Lucien doesn't inquire further and just nods.
Lucien: Alright, I'll escort you home.
MC: No need, I'll take a taxi!
Lucien: (chuckles) Does the waitress have money for a taxi?
MC: I…
With things having come to this, I can only continue to stutter and tell lies.
MC: Actually, besides working in the restaurant, I also work as a maid in a villa on Long Island!
MC: Uh... they treat the servants really well in that house, so... so, I read my books there too!
After hearing my lame explanation, Lucien merely raises an eyebrow and then proceeds to open the car door for me once again.
Lucien: That's perfect, I live on Long Island too.
Lucien: May I take you home now, Miss MC?
-
[Part 4]
MC: Ah…
I pull the blanket down and roll over, allowing the morning sunlight to fall onto the business card in my hand.
There are only two short lines on it. "Lucien" and his phone number.
Fortunately, last night Lucien only dropped me off near the mansion. If he had taken me all the way to the doorstep, I would have probably been exposed instantly.
—With that cunning fox-like expression on his face, who knows, he might have already figured it out.
But why would he keep cooperating with me? Does he find it amusing?
He doesn't seem… that playful, does he?
All these random thoughts that I pondered before falling asleep still puzzle me when I wake up, and I can't come up with a definite conclusion.
The only evidence of my turmoil throughout the night is the business card with two creases in my hand.
MC: ...Until I figure things out, maybe it's best not to contact this person.
I tuck the business card into the pillow and am about to get up when the butler knocks on the door.
Butler: Miss, I have a letter of visit.
MC: A visit for me?
I take the letter with confusion, open it, and see a few lines of handwriting identical to the business card.
"Dear Miss MC, I hope to visit your residence at eleven o'clock this morning to sincerely discuss the unfinished topic from yesterday."
Signed, Your trustworthy "wicked" partner.
Besides that, there is another small line below.
—May I ask if you are currently cleaning the floor or reading?
Surely, Lucien has already found out!
Butler: …Miss?
MC: Ask him to wait for me in the living room!
I quickly toss the visiting letter back onto the tray, stand up, and head towards the living room. The butler is hurriedly calling out to me.
Butler: Miss, you should go dress up in the dressing room first.
MC: There's no need for that with him.
He already saw my most embarrassing side yesterday anyway, and I don't want to pretend to be reserved anymore.
The butler hesitates for a moment upon hearing my words but surprisingly doesn't offer any further persuasion.
I reach the living room, and shortly after, a leisurely set of footsteps comes from the doorway.
Lucien: (chuckles) It seems the rules in this mansion are indeed lax, even the maids can receive guests in their pajamas.
MC: Lucien!
I angrily pick up a cushion and throw it towards the man at the doorway. He extends his arm and catches it effortlessly, much like how he caught a bouquet yesterday.
Lucien has a different look today. Framed by his gold-rimmed monocle, he no longer resembles yesterday's trendy gentleman but rather a noble who has just inherited an age-old estate.
MC: When did you figure it out?
Lucien: No need to figure out when you've never hidden it well.
I'm choked by his response and can only express my displeasure with a tone.
Lucien places the cushion back beside me and extends his hand towards me.
Lucien: Are you willing to let me get to know you again?
I adjust my pajamas and grasp his hand.
MC: How do you want to get to know me?
Lucien: (chuckles) For example, how about starting with an introduction to your home?
Lucien: After all, I am here for a visit. Shouldn't you entertain me a bit?
MC: I abide by the rules, and here we only have juice and black tea, no alcohol.
Lucien: Juice is fine, I'm not fond of alcohol.
MC: There's no head of the household, so there are no cigars or playing cards either.
Lucien: No need for cigars and playing cards.
MC: There's no jazz on the records either.
Lucien: (chuckles) No problem. I also know a thing or two about European classical orchestras.
I lead Lucien through this villa devoid of modern touch, and we eventually stop in the study.
MC: This is my home. For a nouveau riche like you, it must seem quite dull and boring, right?
Lucien: (chuckles) Quite the opposite.
Lucien gave me a negative response. His fingers brush over the thick volumes on the bookshelf, finally resting on the popular magazines on the sofa.
Lucien: Here, I can sense a bird that's trying to break free from her shackles.
Lucien: She clumsily stretches her wings, wanting to soar higher than all of her kind…
Lucien: The cage can't imprison her.
Lucien speaks each word calmly but with a firm conviction.
Even though we just met yesterday, he seems to completely understand the troubles and struggles I've faced in these past few years.
My nose feels a bit sour, and I can't help but shake my head.
MC: But after flying out, I still haven't found a direction.
Lucien: It's okay, I'll give you direction.
Lucien pulls me and we sit on the sofa. His hand sweeps over the strands of hair hanging on my shoulders.
Lucien: Do you have any activities you'd like to do today?
MC: I haven't thought of any big activities for now... I plan to change the color of my toenails first. What color do you think is good?
Lucien: How about purple?
I nod. Lucien takes the nail polish from me, and without waiting for me to speak, he already lifts my calf.
The brush, dipped in color, carefully sweeps over my toenails. His movements are natural as if he has done this for me many times before.
Watching the purple gradually spread on my toenails, it feels as if my life is also being painted with new colors by the person in front of me.
I lower my eyes, making an effort to keep my voice steady.
MC: Oh, and I want to get my hair cut, my current hairstyle is no longer in fashion now…
Lucien: Shh…
Lucien: You can change your hairstyle, but don't change it with the purpose of conforming to the idea of the era.
Lucien: Let the trends conform to you, MC. When you master the rules of the era, you'll naturally navigate life with ease.
MC: Like you?
Lucien: (chuckles) Why use me as an example?
MC: Because you are the most effortlessly adept person I've ever met.
MC: Sometimes you seem like those mysterious nouveau riche, but your demeanor is much more elegant than theirs…
MC: It's as if no matter how the world changes, you always manage to adapt seamlessly.
MC: I'm curious about how you manage to do that…
Lucien: (chuckles) Are you curious about me?
MC: Um, yes.
Lucien lifts his gaze, the gold chain beside his ear gently swaying. In the depths of his profound pupils, there's a hint of hidden emotions.
Lucien: I must remind you, Miss, in this era, expressing curiosity about the opposite sex often implies a desire for them to become one's lover.
Lucien: Do you want me to be your lover?
I was stunned. Can mere curiosity lead to an intimate relationship?
Can I... develop that kind of relationship with Lucien?
My breath quickens under his gaze, and each blink of his eyes seems to urge my response. My lips falter, hesitating between opening and closing.
MC: If it's you... it's not entirely out of the question… um.
Before I finish my sentence, Lucien grabs my ankle.
His long fingers intimately caress and stroke my skin, and the freshly applied nail polish gradually solidifies in the proximity of his approach.
I hold my breath, watching Lucien approach closer and closer until his voice is just a hair's breadth away.
Lucien: (whispers seductively) Miss MC.
Lucien: (X2) The concept of "lover" is also a product of conforming to the era. Don't cater to it.
His voice is calm, almost causing my just-burning heart to cool down instantly. I stare at him in disbelief.
MC: Th-then what do you mean? Do you actually not feel anything for me at all…
Lucien: (chuckles, then whispers) …Fool.
Lucien's expression becomes somewhat helpless, and he lets out a sigh.
Lucien: (continuing his whisper) I prefer traditional and older forms of address to trendy ones like 'lover'.
Lucien: (X2) MC, I want to be your husband, may I?
In an instant, the chaotic flight finally finds its direction. My heart pounds erratically, but my lips still resist surrendering at this point.
MC: If you want to be my husband... you'll have to tell me what kind of husband you are, right?
Lucien: (chuckles) Well…
Lucien curves his eyes, carefully considers, and then speaks slowly.
Lucien: I can understand her feelings, accompany her on her journey, and of course, I have a bit of a romantic streak.
Lucien: (whispers seductively) Miss MC, are you satisfied with this kind of husband? Would you like to continue dating me?
MC: So, should our dates be more romantic and special?
MC: Like taking me to the latest tech presentation? Or visiting an art exhibition?
MC: I am your "wicked" partner, and we promised to observe this era together.
Lucien smiles and agrees to each suggestion. After a pause, he adds one more sentence.
Lucien: Before our date, I thought of something important.
Lucien: Since Miss MC has now agreed to our spousal relationship, your foolish fiancé wants to talk to you again about our engagement.
Lucien: Can I talk to you now?
----------------FIN--------------------
[Lux's rambles and sort-of-analysis(?)]
The twist can be seen from miles away, but yes! He's THE foolish fiancé that MC never saw before yet talked shit about 😂 EVERYTHING (like his eagerness to be with her, his sus behavior, and his relentless teasing) suddenly makes sense just with that twist. Just like MC, Lucien is also a European noble (with a ridiculously long noble name that MC couldn’t remember LOL), and possibly of German/Austrian origin because his before evolve art has a German sentence on it:
Dachte er,da alle diese vergänglichsten dinge mir wiederentglitten sind (He thought, all these fleeting things had slipped away from me again.)
That sentence possibly reflects Lucien's thoughts upon hearing the news of MC wanting to break off their engagement—before chasing after his fiancée who 'slipped away' from him thousands of miles away. Somehow, this impulsivity reminds me of the latest main story… I feel that Lucien is so forward on this date because he also fears that she will ‘slip away’ again if he doesn't act fast ಥ‿ಥ.
Regardless of whether their first meeting as strangers was a coincidence or not- Lucien is already determined to seduce her slyly letting her know about him better. Then there's also his relentless teasing that comes from him knowing MC's real identity all along 😂
I really appreciate the subtle world-building too, besides the ones that I already mentioned in trivia and Lucien's perspective on the world, there's also the Director's prejudice toward waitresses (and possibly women in general), and one blink-and-you-miss-it line that I feel can be dug a bit deeper, the one line where the Actress thanked Lucien:
Actress: Likewise, thank you very much for not stopping your female companion from helping me.
I KNOW IT MIGHT NOT SEEM MUCH. But it paints a picture of that era, where women need permission from a man to do anything. This date explores women’s self-worth in that era. MC’s ‘worth’ was that a ‘tool’ for a political marriage, however, she refused this fate and tried to find her own value by going to NYC. Lucien showed up and besides seducing her tried to help her find herself bit by bit in his own way. I think he’s genuine in that regard, and by helping her find herself, he also knows about her better~
Then, this date also provides us with a unique definition for "The Wicked"/"Bad people"- that's basically people who can discern, adapt to, and control the era and can navigate the ever-changing feast of both righteousness and wickedness, reaping prosperity through opportunities. He grasps that her yearning is for freedom and the discovery of her intrinsic value. She doesn't need to cater to him or the expectations of that era. Rather, let the era itself cater to her, and he can help her to make it happen. The cage can't imprison her and he can make her soar even higher. This, again, is similar to his "kingmaker" (read: queenmaker) trope in the main story 👀. I'd love to see how things go from there but sadly the date gets cut short. Guess the rest is left to our imagination now 🤣
MC: Becoming an actress seems a bit challenging... How about a business tycoon? Or maybe a poet? Or should I try my hand at being a director?
Lucien: They all sound suitable for you. I didn't expect you to have such grand ambitions.
MC: After all, as Victor Hugo said, "The ideal applied to real facts is civilization".
A bit out of topic, but I really appreciate Lucien always respecting her ideas and giving her the freedom to follow her heart 🤧. People might think that those are too silly or too ambitious, but not him 🥺 what a supportive husband jsjsjdhdjd.
Anyway, back to the topic before I continue gushing about it- "The ideal applied to real facts is civilization." is a line from Victor's Hugo essay "William Shakespeare". The quote suggests that the ideal, or the highest standards of human thought and creativity, should be applied to real facts and experiences to achieve civilization. Although MC already sees the dark side™️ of the world, she is still firm in her ideal and wants to influence the world in her own way. By becoming something like a poet, director, and other identities that she had not yet discovered, she can apply her ideal to real things and bring change to the world.
About the ending... I like to think that what happened is they broke off the arranged and unfree marriage to renew it with the one that they agreed on🥺 . May our “wicked” couple live happily ever after in this one AU~
[CN] MLQC Lucien's "Wicked" Date English Translation (Part 1/2)
⚠️ SPOILER ALERT!! ⚠️
This post contains a detailed spoiler for a date that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~
"The wicked are always clear-headed; they see the emptiness after the revelry, the dynamics after the financial feast, the dealings after the battlefield smoke clear."
"...The wicked toy with the era, revel in the era, and above the era."
"Are you interested in such a role, Miss?"
Translation under the cut!
[T/N: I don't want to ruin the immersion too much so I'll put some T/N and Trivias here lol]
huài rén (坏人) in English is typically translated as "bad person" or "villain" It typically refers to someone who illegally uses violence or deception to seize others' property or even their lives. However, on this date, I’ll translate the word as “wicked” considering the context of this date and all lol. Special thanks to @/perhaps-in-anotherdream for suggesting this word <3
"ài rén" (爱人) and "qíng rén" (情人) both refer to a romantic partner or a lover in Chinese, but there is a subtle difference in their usage.
ài rén (爱人): This term generally means "spouse" or "life partner" and is typically translated as "husband"/"wife". It emphasizes a deep emotional connection and often implies a committed, long-term relationship a.k.a marriage.
qíng rén(情人): This term translates to "lover" in English and is more associated with the romantic and passionate aspects of a relationship. This term is broader and can refer to a lover or someone with whom you have a romantic or intimate relationship. It's a more general term for a romantic partner and doesn't necessarily imply marriage.
This date is set somewhere in New York City in the 1920s. Which why Lucien impliedly mentioned war/a "battlefield" (refer to WW I), there's alcohol prohibition going on (Prohibition era that lasted from 1920 to 1933), and MC mentioned the Golden Age (The Roaring Twenties)
-
[Part 1]
Director: Miss MC, have you had any prior experience in acting?
MC: Yes, I have... a bit.
Director: Are you sure?
The director leans back in the chair, impatiently tapping the script on the table.
Director: Not only did you misread the lines just now, but the few steps you took to the staircase were also awkward…
Director: Miss, the acting experience you mentioned wasn't just playing house with your female classmates in school, was it?
A burst of laughter erupts on the set, and I find myself feeling embarrassed amidst the laughter, my nose tingling with a hint of sourness.
Director: Alright, alright. I've seen plenty of girls like you who work as restaurant waitresses.
Director: Dreaming of becoming a female star just because you've seen a few movie posters in Times Square.
MC: Hold on, Mr. Director, I wasn't dreaming, I just…!
Director: Next!
I'm about to argue, but the staff unceremoniously stops me, signaling me to leave.
More auditioners with heavy makeup are surging forward, pushing me to the outside of the door.
MC: ….Hmph! Why does he look down on female waitresses!
I angrily kick the door frame. Despite the annoyance and frustration, there's an inexplicable hint of happiness in my heart.
——Even though the audition went haywire; if the director didn't see through my "restaurant waitress" facade, does it mean my acting skills aren't that bad after all?
MC: So, it's the director's lack of judgment. Why should he say I lack acting skills!
[T/N: Basically, MC just realized that due to the director's preconceived stereotype about waitresses, he might unfairly judge her during the acting audition.]
???: Indeed, in my opinion, Miss has great acting talent.
A sudden male voice startles me, I turn around and find a gentleman wearing a long trench coat.
He gives me a friendly smile. I recognize his face and realize who he is.
MC: You are... the scriptwriter sitting next to the director!
Lucien: Yes, you can call me Lucien.
Lucien: I just watched your audition, and I feel that Miss might simply not have found her true role.
MC: True role?
My puzzled expression earns a light chuckle from Lucien. Surprisingly, I don't sense any mockery in his laughter.
Lucien: Mm... the character in this play is quite theatrical in her actions, yet there are many delicate monologues. Therefore, it requires an experienced actress to handle it within a short time.
Lucien: For newcomers like you, I do have a role in my next project that you can give a try, would you like to try it out?
MC: What role is it?
Neon lights spread across the gradually thickening night, and the latest jazz music faintly sounds in my ears.
Lucien's gaze hides behind the lenses, making it difficult for me to discern his emotions. I can only see his lips that's full of interest.
Lucien: An aristocratic young lady from an old manor house who has stumbled into the world's most prosperous metropolis.
I pause for a breath half-step step back. It takes a good while before I manage to force a smile.
MC: ....Why do you think I'm suitable for such a role?
Lucien: If I say it's intuition, would you believe me, Miss?
Lucien pushes up his glasses, his tone becoming serious.
Lucien: The awkwardness during your audition, the somewhat old-fashioned and reserved demeanor when wanting to argue with the director, and the expectant light in your eyes when faced with something new…
Lucien: Exactly like the noblewoman I envisioned.
MC: ….
The way he describes this noblewoman, why does it sound like she's a bit silly? I pout.
MC: Such a role doesn't seem very interesting, does it?
MC: Nowadays, what everyone wants to see is a more adventurous and trendy movie story. The "noblewoman" is already outdated.
Lucien: Miss, do you feel that my character isn't popular enough?
MC: Ah, that's not what I meant…
MC: I wasn't doubting your professional writing skills, I was just analyzing the trends of this era.
Lucien: Now, that sounds more like it.
I take a deep breath and glare at Lucien. Only then does he retract his smile and give me a slight bow.
Lucien: Are you upset? Allow me to apologize for my presumption. I'm sorry.
Lucien: I can tell you're a woman with a lot of ideas. I should have sought your input first rather than imposing my own framework on you.
Lucien: So, what kind of role would you like to play?
...He's indeed a strange man.
I'm not a fool; I can certainly sense that this man named Lucien has a lot to say, but it seems like he finds me amusing and was teasing me.
But that last sentence, I can tell that it's sincere.
Faced with an honest person, a truthful response is in order. My curled up fingers run over the fringe of my skirt.
MC: I... don't want to play a role.
MC: I just want to find myself.
-
[Part 2]
=Flashback Start=
MC: Just tell that young master whose name I can't even remember, that I've got smallpox, malaria, and tuberculosis, and I'm about to drop dead!
MC: Let's see if he still wants to marry me!
As soon as the words left my mouth, a commotion erupted in the hall. Even the usually gentle butler, who had watched me grow up, furrowed his brow.
Butler: Miss, the words you're uttering right now are far from ladylike. Besides, it's not respectable for a woman to break off an engagement; you'd bring shame to the family's honor…
MC: It's not the Middle Ages, who still believes in that nonsense?
MC: If I don't pursue my own worth in this golden age, what's the point of engaging in some political marriage? That's when my life would truly be ruined!
I understand that my words were harsh, but I also knew that I couldn't make any concessions at this moment.
The first twenty years of my life were already trapped in this estate. I don't want the latter half of my life to be spent in some secluded castle with some old-fashioned young master.
With this in mind, a plan gradually took shape in my heart.
I took a deep breath, straightened my back, and tried hard to appear more composed.
MC: Not breaking off the engagement is also fine. I remember our family has a property on Long Island. I'd like to move there for a while.
Seeing my tone easing, the butler had no choice but to go along with my suggestion.
Butler: Moving is possible, but how long does Miss plan to stay?
MC: Since you mentioned that it's not respectable for the woman to break off the engagement, then I'll stay until the gentleman is willing to call it off.
-
[Trivia: It's important to remember that the United States does not have a system of hereditary nobility. So MC and her fiance are likely from Europe and went to America for reasons that'll be revealed on this date; whether explicitly or impliedly~]
=Flashback End=
I've been living on Long Island for some time now.
I originally thought that leaving the secluded manor and coming to the world's most bustling city would allow me to smoothly launch my career.
Once I have my own reputation and capital just like those successful women in the newspapers, marriage won't be able to confine me.
-But my plan keeps hitting obstacles.
It's a place where one can strike gold everywhere, but the skills and courage required for "striking gold" seem to be something I completely lack.
Coming for this audition today was simply an attempt to find something I could do for myself.
MC: Perhaps being an actress isn't suitable for me either…
Lucien: Ah, what are you saying?
MC: Nothing.
I lift my head and point to the girls still auditioning in the hall, indicating them to Lucien.
MC: Mr. Lucien, our conversation reminded me of the original intention I had when coming here.
MC: The role I want to play may not be in your script.
MC: If you need actresses, go talk to them, you might find someone more suitable.
Lucien: ….
Lucien shows a surprised expression for the first time, then he squints his eyes slightly.
Lucien: (chuckles) There won't be anyone more suitable than you.
Lucien takes two steps toward me, his figure almost engulfing mine.
The scent emanating from his collar isn't the strong perfume popular in this era; rather, it resembles the ink's subtle fragrance in my grandfather's study.
Perhaps because this fragrance is so gentle and familiar, I don't shy away even though this isn't an appropriate social distance at this moment.
Lucien: I can sense the lady's ambition, what you truly want to play isn't a role on the screen but rather…
Lucien's voice is low and enticing, I can't help but look up and gaze into his eyes.
Lucien: The wicked who can dominate this era.
The wicked?
To be honest, my concept of wicked people only exists in the classical novels I've read.
They are morally corrupt, constantly opposing the protagonist, yet intellectually lacking, repeatedly exposing their flaws and ultimately becoming stepping stones on the protagonist's path to happiness.
MC: ...The wicked you're talking about probably aren't just petty thieves or robbers, right?
Lucien: (chuckles) Of course not.
Lucien chuckles at my remark. He shakes his head, and the pupils beneath his lens are deep and serene.
Lucien: The wicked are always clear-headed; they see the emptiness after the revelry, the dynamics after the financial feast, the dealings after the battlefield smoke clears…
Lucien: The wicked toy with the era, revel in the era, and above the era.
Lucien: Are you interested in such a role, Miss?
Lucien's tone is not impassioned, but my heart starts to beat faster because of his calm words.
I nod gently, then because I'm afraid he might not have seen it clearly, I nod more heavily.
MC: Of course, I do. But I lack experience, and I haven't seen that kind of wicked person in the newspapers….
Lucien: I can take you to experience some examples.
MC: How can I experience it?
Lucien let out a long "Hmm". He calmly takes off the white glove from his right hand and extends his well-jointed hand towards me.
Lucien: Go on a date with me.
MC: Wh... What did you say?!
In this city, it turns out that just chatting for a few sentences can lead to a date?
Seeing my surprised eyes, Lucien innocently tilts his head towards me.
Lucien: (chuckles) Could it be that Miss has never been on a date?
Lucien: That shouldn't be the case. A beautiful waitress like you must receive countless admiration from men.
Oops, I almost forgot I'm still playing the role of a "waitress"!
MC: Sir, actually, I…
Actually, I can now tell him my true identity; after all, I am the daughter of an "old money" family, and he seems to be just ordinary "new money".
But his calm and composed demeanor only makes me more reluctant to reveal myself as the kind of "naive aristocratic girl" in his writing.
I coughed, swallowing back my explanation.
MC: Actually, I have experience, haha!
MC: It's just my first time receiving an invitation from a gentleman like you, and I'm a bit overwhelmed with happiness.
MC: But can you go on a date now? Aren't they still auditioning over there…
Lucien: It's okay, the director will send me the photos for approval.
Lucien: Let's go, my car is over there.
Although I'm a bit confused about how a silent scriptwriter during auditions has such decision-making power, I don't dwell on it and follow him to the car.
MC: Where are we going?
I asked him the last question, and Lucien smiled as he opened the car door for me.
Lucien: Of course, we are going to observe this era.
🌸 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a date that hasn't been released on the EN server yet! 🌸
[Note: This date was translated with the help of Google Translate :>]
——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——
[PART 1]
Hearing the sound of pebbles hitting the window, I quickly look down.
Carla waves her hand and points in the direction of the back door of my house. I feel a sense of elation. After confirming that my parents are asleep, I carefully pick up my skirt, go downstairs and slip out the door.
Carla: We have to hurry up, or we'll miss the magic show. It's the hottest new thing right now!
Before I can say anything, she takes my hand and starts running with me.
As one of the few cheerful girls in the girls' church school, Carla is always taking me to experience all kinds of novel things at the moment.
If not for her well-informed sources and the dogmatic atmosphere at home, I probably would never have even had the chance to see the club.
With the town being as small as it is, we arrive at the newly opened club very quickly.
The waiter leads us inside, and the moment the doors open, the music is loudly amplified, mixing with a series of encores.
The man in a white suit takes off his hat to the audience and gracefully walks off the stage.
His blonde hair is particularly dazzling, like a figure walking out of a palace oil painting. People don't stop cheering until the figure disappears around the corner of the stage.
Host: Today's magic has come to an end, please enjoy the rest of the evening.
The music sounds again. The lights of the mirror-ball reflect on the dance floor and all kinds of men and women begin to dance.
MC: ...Is it over?
Carla: What a pity! I wonder If I'll be able to sneak out again during the next performance...
Carla lets out a regretful sigh and pulls me to sit in the booth next to her.
But after just one look behind her, she suddenly seems to have discovered something and her face livens up again.
Carla: You sit here for a bit while I go put my makeup on. Since I'm not interested in magic, I've got to find a handsome guy to dance with, otherwise these tickets will have been in vain.
MC: Wait...
When I look up, I see a pair of blue eyes behind Carla's fiery figure.
The man not far away is clad in a white suit. Before I can react, he walks up to me, and with a slight twist of his fingers, a flower suddenly appears, held between his fingertips.
Magician: The most beautiful flower, given to most adorable and charming lady in the room.
He immediately hands over the flower to me, his blue eyes particularly clear in the light, akin to shining stars in the night sky.
I am left a little stunned for a moment, hesitant on whether I should take the flower from him.
Magician: You don't like magic?
MC: No, I like it very much.
MC: It's just my first time seeing this kind of magic... I'm sorry, my friend and I just missed your show.
Magician: Do you still want to see it?
His slightly drawn-out voice carries with it a certain temptation, pulling me into its tide, and I nod almost subconsciously.
He smiles and sits down on the plush seat next to me, asking the waiter to serve us two glasses of wine. He then takes out a deck of playing cards.
Magician: Actually, magic can not only change things out of thin air, but can also provide many interesting forms of entertainment.
Magician: For example, in the this deck of cards, I can guess your heart.
MC: Guess... my heart?
Magician: If I guess correctly, you have to answer my question, if not... I will give you whatever you want.
Magician: Want to give it a try?
He holds the cards with a determined look on his face, and his blue eyes look straight into my heart with a hint of aggression and bewitchment.
My heart cannot help but beat faster, yet I deliberately raise my voice, unconvinced.
MC: Okay, please start.
Magician: Please choose a card from this deck. Remember the type and number, don't show it to me, and then put it back in again.
I draw out a 9 of hearts, then turn the card over and put it back, following his instructions. He shuffles the cards a few more times.
He puts his hand on the cards, as if sensing something, then takes one out and hands it to me.
After taking a good look at the card, I cannot help but widen my eyes. It is the 9 of hearts that I drew.
MC: ...How did you do it?!
Magician: I said I could do magic.
Magician: First question, tell me your name.
MC: Jenny.
MC: Please sir, what is your name..?
Magician: Kylo.
He raises his eyebrows slightly. At this moment, the stars seem to be condensed within his irises, rendering me unable to look away.
Kylo: Miss Jenny, shall we continue?
Kylo: Right now, everything has only just begun.
His slender fingers fingers fold the cards then, and the pile of cards dance regularly in his hands, drawing a beautiful arc in the air, and are then handed to me.
The inadvertent contact of our skins leaves my fingertips with a slight burn.
Just when I am about to take over, the cards fly obediently into his palm in the next second.
A slight smile appears on the corner of his mouth and he waves the cards in front of me again, his mischievous movements making me even more eager to try.
We play like this one game after another, chatting more and more speculatively with each magic trick, until the waiter comes to remind us that the club is about to close.
What occurred just now was akin to a beautiful dream, but now that I have woken up from this dream, I am a little ashamed to find that Carla has disappeared without me knowing when.
I quickly search the surroundings with Kylo, but even until everyone has gone, she is nowhere to be found.
Waiter: If you're looking for the lady who came with you, she and another gentleman have already left.
After listening to the waiter, we are left with no choice but to walk out first.
The street lights are turned off in the early morning, and a few crows can be heard in the distance every now and then, making the already dark night even more eerie.
Kylo chuckles into my ear. He seems to have read my thoughts.
Kylo: I'll take you home. I want to hear more interesting things about your school.
——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——
[PART 2]
Kiro: This is my first playing the male lead since I started acting. It's truly great being able to work with my senior.
In the dressing room, Kiro takes off his top hat, straightens his jacket and then sits down not far away, slightly reserved.
He is the best among the newly signed actors of the company. Although his qualifications are still relatively young, he will definitely go on to become a good star in the future.
MC: Don't say that. We both belong to the same company, so there will be many opportunities for us to work together in the future.
Assistant: Miss MC, your coffee.
MC: Betty, also...
Just when I am about to ask my assistant to make another cup for Kiro, the door of the dressing room creaks open.
Assistant Director: This is the script for the next scene. The screenwriter has just revised it. It would be best for the two of you to walk through the scene in advance after reading it.
Assistant Director: We plan on deleting Carla's part to make the rhythm more compact. After finishing the shots, we will shoot the entire scene from the doorway to the end.
Taking the script, I glance at it briefly and then frown slightly.
MC: It's a bit different from the previous content...
The previous scene where Kylo sent Jenny home is changed to that of an intimate one, with the inclusion of hugging and kissing scenes that are somewhat bold nowadays.
Kiro, who is standing on the side, is also left stunned. He looks at me with a bit of hesitation and then quickly averts his eyes.
Although he has deliberately turned his head, I could still make out the slight blush on his face.
Assistant Director: This is the version that has been approved by the higher-ups. Though it's somewhat challenging, I believe that the two of you will definitely give us the best of your acting skills.
Assistant Director: If you want to finish the shoot before dawn, focus on this... and...
After a few more explanations, the assistant director leaves, taking my assistant out, leaving us alone with the scene.
Apart from the roar of the fireplace, no other sound exists in the dressing room.
After I read the script again, I adjust my mental state, get up and walk to Kiro.
MC: Relax a little. After all, this is a required course for actors. Let's try the dialogue first, shall we?
Although I am a little nervous, as an actor with more experience in the industry, I try to keep my tone as relaxed as possible.
After hearing what I said, he nods slightly and stands up, taking a deep breath, as if he has made up his mind.
Kiro: [slowly exhaling] Okay.
I pick up the script, flip to the revised scene and clear my throat.
MC: I'm home, Mr. Kylo.
Kiro: Then I wish you... sweet dreams.
Kiro's voice during the dialogue is clearly a little softer, and his hands grip the edge of the script rather unnaturally.
He doesn't dare to look at me with his twinkling eyes. After repeating the lines again, he hesitates and does not continue.
Though it is also my first time shooting such a scene, and I can't keep my face from feeling a little hot, for the sake of moving forward, all I can do is calm myself down and let myself take the lead.
MC: Here, put your hands on my waist, pull me into your arms and kiss me.
As I speak, I take his hand and put it on my waist, taking the initiative to move closer to his arms.
Kiro: MC...
Surprise flashes across his face for a moment, obviously not expecting me to do this. He is about to pull his hand away, but I pull him tighter towards me.
MC: Let's focus on the script. Here it says that the magician wants to kiss... Jenny.
MC: If you're not used to it yet, we can turn off the lights first.
I try my best to control my stiff fingertips, raise my hand to turn off the light in the dressing room and breathe a sigh of relief.
This way, the growing heat on my face will not be exposed to him.
I am unable to see his face clearly in the darkness, only an overlapping and ambiguous silhouette outlined by the firelight emitting from the fireplace.
Everything is magnified. I can clearly feel the heat of his palms transmitting through the thin lacey fabric at my waist.
The close distance makes his breath fan across my face.
His eyes are like a deep sea. The moment our eyes meet, there is a touch of aggression and anticipation within them that makes my heart tighten.
After a brief silence, I pout and am about to say something, but my lips are suddenly enveloped with a light warmth.
He kisses me.
His warm breath occupies my lips and my breathing grows chaotic. It takes me a while to murmur that sentence.
MC: That was my first kiss, Mr. Magician.
We embrace each other in an extremely intimate posture. Beneath the beautiful light and shadow, he is a little closer than before, completely encircling me within his arms.
I put my hands on his shoulders and breathe against his warm lips, as if the two of us are melting together into the sea.
His breaths are a little fast, and his heartbeats beat rapidly against his chest. For a moment, I cannot even tell whether they are his or mine.
Although I am left momentarily stunned, I keep telling myself in my heart that this is an act.
However, I am not the only one left stunned at this moment.
Kiro: [dazed murmur] ...That was also my first kiss.
His words fall between our intertwined breaths, seeming to cause the temperature around us to suddenly rise.
MC: ...You got the wrong line.
A trace of what is left of my sense of reason makes me realize that this isn't a line, and I quickly change the subject to cover up my restless heartbeat.
My words clearly make him panic. Kiro quickly lets go of me and quickly turns the light back on.
Perhaps because he got caught in the embarrassing situation of "getting the wrong line", his face turns a little red, and he turns around, looking down at the lines in the script that he is supposed to say.
And because of this, I am glad that he isn't able to notice my reaction--
I am also breathing rapidly, my face heating up.
Likewise, he won't know...
This was also my first kiss, Mr. Kiro.
——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——
[PART 3]
Kylo: Good evening, everyone.
Kylo: It was fate that allowed us to meet on this night.
On the club stage, the red velvet curtains are drawn to both sides with the music, the spotlight drawing the audience's attention to the young magician.
Kylo appears on the stage in a well-tailored white suit. He takes off his hat in greeting and then a rain of flowers showers down on the venue.
The next instant, he waves the magic wand in his hand. A cluster of firelight rises and the flowers disappear.
Kylo: Are you ready to join this miraculous feast?
I see him throwing his hat into the sky, and then the dazzling ribbons explode, the hat changing from one to three.
Kylo raises his chin in the face of the bright spotlight and takes one of the hats with great confidence.
He takes his time making his next move. His blue eyes look around calmly before he opens his palms--
Under the intense drum beat, a snow-white rabbit emerges from the hat. It shakes its ears and jumps into his palm.
The audience then exclaims and cheers, stands and applauds, and several people in fancy attire throw gold coins at the stage.
At this moment, I play the role of Jenny and sit in the booth somberly.
Sommelier: It's quite a pity that you just missed Mr. Kylo's performance, miss.
The sommelier on the side vividly describes to me the performance I had just missed while clearing out the glasses.
I turn to look at Kylo and smile shyly.
MC: But I don't think this is the only time Mr. Kylo will perform. I'll arrive early next time.
Kylo: Then I will reserve the best seat for you.
He says, putting on his hat and bowing to me like a gentleman.
Kylo: It's getting late, and I honestly can't find any reason to keep the lady.
Kylo: So, let me escort you home safely, alright?
-
Kylo and I walk side by side on the way home, and I sneakily look at his profile in the moonlught.
Perhaps it's because it's my first time being so close to someone of the opposite sex, but every time our eyes meet, my heartbeat keeps speeding up uncontrollably.
After hesitating for some time, despite my embarrassment, I finally ask the question that made me most curious.
MC: Mr. Kylo, someone like you... must already be in a relationship with a girl, right?
Kylo: You guessed wrong. I don't have a girlfriend.
Kylo: However, at his moment, I'm encountering a beautiful love, so maybe I'll have one soon.
Like some kind of invitation, he takes advantage of the situation and takes my hand.
All of a sudden, my face feels hot and my heart pounds heavily.
His palms are warm and dry, and somehow, I let him hold me until I reach the door of my house.
MC: ...I'm home now.
Kylo: Then, I wish you sweet dreams.
MC: The same to you.
I nod and prepare to open the door, slightly reluctant, but his voice comes from behind me again.
Kylo: I have never felt time fly so quickly...
Kylo: Perhaps the romantic night calls for a romantic farewell.
His whispers are carried to my ears by the wind. I try to steady my mind and look at this person who is still able to be eye-catching even in the dead of night.
MC: [blushing] Mr. Kylo...
Before I finish speaking, he takes a step closer to me, a smile on his face, and immediately puts his hands on my waist, drawing our breaths closer.
Kylo: We need some romance, right?
This is clearly a line in the script, but looking into his eyes, I feel as if I have fallen into a deep sea.
He puts me in a trance, and I am unable to tell whether this is a part of the act or not.
MC: [blushing] I...
In an instant, all those unspoken hesitations are swallowed up by his kiss.
Different from the shyness in the dressing room some time ago, his breathing closely intertwines with mine, as if wanting to loose himself in the sensation with me.
Kylo: [murmuring breathlessly] Tell me...
He asks me softly, as if he were bewitching me.
My breathing is a little chaotic, and I begin to respond to him involuntarily, slowly snaking my hands around his neck.
MC: Yes...
A trace of tenderness suddenly flashes in his eyes, but he does not let me go because of this, only continues to deepen the kiss.
It isn't until the camera lights not far away flash that I am suddenly brought back to reality and stroke his cheek.
MC: ...That was my first kiss, Mr. Kylo.
Director: Cut! Come in earlier and come again!
I quickly take a deep breath and nod to the director.
MC: Sorry, director. I'll adjust my state.
After responding to the director, when I turn around and look at Kiro before me, my originally calm heartbeat starts to race again.
MC: ...Well, you've made a lot of progress from what you did in the dressing room.
Kiro: Yeah?
Kiro: But I don't think it's enough.
Kiro: When facing the person you like, you have to make her feel it more clearly.
Kiro says it so candidly that I have to blink in surprise for a moment.
There is clearly no change in his facial features - it's the same as ever.
And his behavior at this moment is completely different to that of the shy young man who was in the dressing room half an hour ago.
But he doesn't give me a chance to ask for an explanation. He nods to the director and indicates that the filming can start.
With the sound of the film machine turning, I pick up the hem of my skirt again, as if I have already transformed into that young girl who doesn't know much about the world, immersed in that alluring golden light.
A newcomer whose acting skills have improved so quickly--
I think I want to get to know you again, Kiro.
Director: Action.
MC: That was my first kiss, Mr. Kylo.
Kylo: Then I must be the luckiest person in the world.
MC: Do you say that to other girls?
Kylo: No, you're the only one in front of me.
As he speaks, he takes off his coat and puts it on me, tightening it around the collar.
I startle, looking at the coat he put on me so naturally.
This isn't something that's in the script.
I am unable to keep myself from looking up at him, but he just looks at me with a smile and tucks my wind-blown hair behind my ears.
The coat is stained with his warmth and gradually merges with my own, prompting me to take a step closer to him under the heat.
At this moment, I am no longer confused about whether I am Jenny or MC.
I just obey my instincts at this moment and place a gentle kiss on his lips.
He immediately hugs me tighter, his hands wandering around my waist, and then gently strokes my back.
I gently close my eyes and what follows is a longer and more lingering kiss from him.
God knows how bold such a performance is. We are expressing love in front of everyone as if no one else was around.
Looking at him in front of me, feeling his breathing and touch, I gradually am unable to tell whether these emotions are real or a performance.
Since we have to shoot different scenes and angles for editing, we kiss like this countless times.
And I have drowned in that deep sea countless times.
By the time the director shouts "Cut", the sky was getting brighter.
Watching Kiro pack up his luggage alone in the distance, I suddenly feel a little uncomfortable.
Maybe I need to process what happened today.
I don't say anything more to Kiro. When I am about to leave in the car, he comes and knocks at my car window.
Kiro: Miss MC, can I have your contact information?
Different from the wandering look he has during filming, his eyes are pure, and shine in the morning light.
He makes my heart skip a beat again.
MC: Certainly.
I don't want him to see anything, so I lower my head take out the lipstick from my bag. With feigned nonchalance, I write my phone number on a piece of paper and hand it to him, and then ask my driver to drive away.
Looking at that figure gradually disappearing in the rearview mirror, a faint anticipation starts to spread in my heart.
——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——
[PART 4]
But ever since that day, he has never contacted me.
Another day of shooting ends. As soon as I open the apartment door, the apartment manager on the first floor pokes his head out.
Manager: There's no call for you today, Miss MC.
MC: ...Thanks.
Manager: God, this is the first time I've seen you care so much.
Manager: You've been waiting for this call for three weeks, right? Tell me, what kind of person is this "Mr. Kiro"?
Seeing his look of interest, I smile politely in response and hurry back home.
The anticipation I felt when I handed over my phone number and name a few weeks ago has now turned into a slightly gnawing irritation.
The memory of that sweet and raw kiss has appeared so many times in my dreams in the middle of the night, that it honestly felt more like a dream.
Could it be that he is an expert? Not only is he an eloquent magician on-screen, but he's capable of leaving people anxious and sleepless at night off-screen as well.
Thoughts come to my mind, so I simply kick off my high heels and throw myself onto the sofa with a sigh.
To be honest, I could just contact him through the company while he is filming in other states.
But what is the point of contacting him like this? If he really thought of this as only a temporary emotion, then I might as well extinguish the flames that have ignited in my heart as soon as possible.
MC: Go ahead and film your movie. If you don't want to contact me, then don't contact me!
-
Kiro: Miss MC! Long time no see!
The next time I meet him is a month later on the set of a commercial we are co-producing.
As soon as I arrive at the beach we are filming at, the man who cast me aside and ignored me for more than a month immediately runs towards me.
He still smiles at me as brightly and warmly as the sun, and his eyes as blue as the sea can still easily take away my soul in an instant.
I turn my head away as if nothing has happened, deliberately not looking at him.
While I had some begrudging thoughts at the prospect of filming with him, the company has spent a lot of money to get this soda commercial.
Neither the reward in front of me nor my professional ethics has given me the chance to refuse.
Kiro: The response to the movie was very good. Everyone recognized our characters during the filming.
Kiro: People keep saying that we're a perfect match, a real couple!
My heart, which has been anxious for quite some time, becomes incredibly light. The corners of my mouth helplessly long to rise along with his, but I pull them down again.
I calmly straighten my back, raise my neck pretentiously and gracefully respond to him with a sideways glance.
MC: Yeah?
Kiro: I met a few movie fans a few days ago who asked me about your latest whereabouts...
As he waits with me for the camera to be set up, he talks about the daily happenings of this period, as if nothing has happened.
The irritability that has been with me for a long time lingers around me, mixing with the happiness of seeing him, and becoming more and more and complex than I am used to.
Kiro: How are you lately?
The "culprit" in front of me blinked his sincere eyes, an innocent look on his face.
Photographer: The props are ready! Come over here, you two!
Before I can answer, the photographer interrupts us.
But that was alright, otherwise I didn't know if I could maintain my composure on the surface.
After all, other than him, filming a summer soda commercial on a winter beach is sad enough.
Photographer: This set of promotional pictures needs to highlight the concept of drinks being incorporated into life. The two of you can chat about anything and find that casual everyday state for yourselves!
I sit under the parasol and make a cute gesture of enjoying the sunshine. Kiro is half-lying next to me clearly, reaching out to pick up a bottle of soda as if to drink it.
"Click--"
Photographer: Great! That's it! Keep going!
I straighten up and gesture to get something from the picnic basket. He changes his posture in response and looks back at me.
Kiro: You and I haven't seen each other for about a month.
Kiro: Like the photographer said, what should we talk about?
Photographer: Next one!
I am so angry that I hear the photographer's voice in my ears, so I immediately open my eyes wide and put on a sweet smile.
Kiro also raises his hand to put on his sunglasses, his face glowing.
"Click--"
The moment the camera moves away, my expression immediately collapses and I can't help but stare at him.
MC: Want to chat with me now? Did you take my phone number and forget about it a month ago?
Hearing my words, a trace of panic flashes across his eyes. He closes the magazine and is about to take my hand, but I cleverly sidestep him.
Photographer: Look at each other again! Smile... a little more sensationally!
I raise my eyebrows and look up at him, our eyes meeting in mid-air.
Kiro closes one eye and raises the corners of his lips in a teasing arc, though he is unable to remove the panic from his eyes in time.
"Click--"
This time, his outstretched hand grasps a hold of my wrist.
The warmth from another person irons my skin and is enough to warm my heart in this cold.
Kiro: I haven't forgotten. I've always kept your phone number!
Kiro: It's just... I haven't found the time yet...
MC: It's just a phone call. Do you need to find the time?
I can't help but complain quietly.
All I want is to know what he thinks of me, and meet with him and chat with him outside of the camera.
Kiro: Because it's a very important matter... so I've been thinking about how to tell you.
Kiro: Later I finally realized that I should tell you in person rather than on the phone.
He pulls my hand hard and prompts me to fall directly into his arms. Then the sound of the photographer pressing the shutter comes, one after another.
Kiro: What do you say?
Kiro touches my cheek with one hand and lowers his head.
The distance between us suddenly shortens and I fall into a clear ocean.
His breath gently brushes the side of my face and I breathe it in, along with the air.
Kiro: Will you go on a date with me?
"Click--"
I don't know if I had time to adjust my expression in the final photo and give a smile that met the requirements.
-
I don't even remember how I said goodbye to the photographer, thanked everyone at the scene one by one, and retired to the break room.
Involuntarily, my heart is roaring, and my cheeks have turned crimson.
Even after I wrap myself in my coat, my breathing still doesn't calm down.
A mischievous sound comes from beside me and a golden color that is more dazzling than the sun breaks into my line of sight.
The tip of his nose is still stained red due to the sea breeze. When he stretches out his hand, a piece of crystal clear fruit candy appears.
With another wave of his hand, the candy in his palm turns into a flower.
The corners of my lips rebel against my reason and raise due to this familiar scene.
MC: Is this also a trick by Mr. Magician?
Kiro places the flowers in my hand with immense care. He slows down his voice and speaks softly.
Kiro: You are the magician who has cast a spell on me.
Kiro: During the time I haven's seen you, I've thought about you every day.
Although I am slightly aware of his intentions, I still childishly choke him.
MC: ...It's been more than a month and you still haven't broken the act?
Kiro: Whether on or off screen, I have missed this lovely and charming lady.
Kiro: Rather, it was because I wanted to distinguish whether it was the you on screen or the you off screen that I couldn't forget...
Kiro: That's why I took on that scene that was shot out of town. I already knew your number by heart, and I had passed by the phone booth hundreds of times, but I still never called you.
Kiro: Because I realized that I couldn't just seek you out - I wanted to stand higher in order to be close to you.
Kiro: So when I came to know you were going to be shooting for this commercial, I worked hard to get the opportunity for this as well.
Kiro: Whether she's an innocent and lovely young lady on-screen, or a professional celebrity who hides her nervousness off-screen.
Kiro: Or the vibrant and lively MC in front of me, who secretly glared at me several times.
Kiro: As long as you are in front of me, you leave me fascinated.
He looks straight at me, slowly but not allowing me to refuse, and leans forward, pressing a little warmth to my lips.
Sweet, and just as raw and clumsy as that night.
Different from the master magician, standing before me is the sincere and passionate Kiro who belongs only to me.
I close my eyes and give him the same unskilled kiss.
The fire in the break room crackles, propping up a corner of spring flowers in winter.
Kiro: Will you go on a date with me?
He lowers his voice and whispers into my ear, sending a steady stream of heat that leaves me dizzy.
I put my arms around his neck and peck him on the cheek.
MC: Isn't it happening right now?
[END]
——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——
✨ Trivia: The 9 of Hearts card that MC drew in the start of the date symbolizes satisfaction and joy. All misfortune is reversed or mitigated by this card. It gives the message: enjoy today and stop worrying about tomorrow.
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🌸 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for content that hasn't been released on the EN server yet! 🌸
I will be the protagonist in your heart.
When I look at you, I can't hide the love in my eyes.
Translator: @cheesy09
✨ Kiro's Screen Date Preview
An unexpected scene of rivalry engraves his warmth into your heart. As the script comes to an end, should your passion for him be diluted?
The lights fall on the middle of the stage, and the two of you on the stage are destined to meet again.
And the heartbeat that belongs to the both of you is never a performance.
✨ Trivia: The quotes on the karma are taken directly from Walt Whitman's poem "A Glimpse" that speaks about two lovers in a bar who are much too lost in each other to notice the constant commotion around them.
The poem highlights the ability of love to remain constant and special even during the everyday disruptions and chaos in our lives :>
[CN] 6th Anniversary Event: “Love is on the way” – (Li Zeyan’s Prologue)
⌚ since global server won’t be getting this event anyway, I’m not going to add spoiler warning~ ⌚ ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و
[notes from Anika before we begin]: after the last day of the anni event, i was crying so hard that it felt like a sin to not bring it over haha. however, i don’t exactly have much time to spare despite the off days from uni, so this might take a while but i’ll try to update regularly and phase by phase~ (*´▽`*)♡
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
【Event Common Prologue】
The Loveland city hall and tourism bureau have arranged a “Love is on the way” event to celebrate the city being acknowledged as the best city for romantic experiences.
MC wins an “RV Travel Gift Package” in the lottery event held by the city hall as a part of the program ~
──────────
【Event Extended Prologue – Li Zeyan】
LZY: Why the frown when you’ve just hit the jackpot?
MC: You’re here just in time! Come and help me decide on a new travel plan.
As I agonize over the itinerary for the RV trip, I see Li Zeyan walking in and hurriedly wave at him to come over.
He takes the route map, gives it a brief glance, and then points to a path that starts from Tongyun Ancient town.
LZY: This one looks like it has the most potential for fun.
MC: My thoughts exactly, but the distance is quite far. It’d be quite a long drive…
LZY: This isn’t our first time going on a road trip like this.
LZY: Plus, the fuel coupons I won are enough to cover us for this entire long-distance trip.
At this unexpected answer, I can’t help but burst into laughter.
MC: Hahaha, what!? You know that’s clearly not what I’m worried about!
LZY: [laughs softly] Dummy, I know.
Contemplating the potential challenges that’d arise in managing his time around, I gently shake his hand.
MC: Taking this route will also add a few extra days to the travel duration we initially planned. I have some vacation days, but will you be able to adjust your schedule?
LZY: Absolutely.
Hearing him respond without the slightest hesitation, I look up at him in elation.
LZY: Every year around this time, when have I ever not freed up my time?
─────
Lounging on the sofa, I cushion my head comfortably on Li Zeyan’s leg, my eyes glued to the short video playing on the phone––
The scene shows couples, family members, or friends lifting their right fists and solemnly pledging adorable vows like “to never be a wet blanket” before setting off on their travels.
Just picturing the scene of Li Zeyan raising his hand to take a vow for tomorrow’s trip involuntarily causes the corners of my lips to hook upwards.
LZY & MC: [simultaneously] During this trip––
Our simultaneously resounding voices catch me off guard for a moment, and then I lock eyes with him.
LZY: Found something fun again?
MC: A super awesome travel hack we’ve never tried before!
LZY: Seeing how you used such a long preamble, it doesn’t sound like something good.
MC: You’re being biased! Who knows, what you wanted to say might not even be as cool as my hack.
LZY: Very true. After all, I only did some pre-travel preparation, and that’s all.
With a subtle smile playing in his eyes, Li Zeyan hands me the tablet he is holding.
My eyes can’t help but widen in astonishment as I look at the minimalistic yet inclusive travel guide that covers everything from destinations to transportation routes and activity arrangements.
The itinerary includes almost every place I wish to check off, along with numerous delightful surprises.
MC: Where did you find this rice wine ice cream? It looks really yummy~
LZY: …you’re the one who found this.
In my bewildered gaze, he digs up our chat history from two days ago and opens a check-in post titled, “I’ll be heartbroken for anyone who hasn’t tried the rice wine ice cream, okay?”
MC: I have no recollection of it at all…
LZY: It’s normal to not have any recollection. Since you started planning, you’ve sent me 63 check-in posts in just two days.
MC: It’s because there are just too many fun things.
Feeling a bit embarrassed, I stick my tongue out at him, but soon, my eyes are drawn to the many empty time slots in the itinerary.
MC: CEO Li, are these time slots designated for spontaneous activities?
LZY: Yup, just in case a certain someone has spontaneous whimsy to add more activities halfway through the trip.
Looking at his perfectly strategized itinerary, I suddenly feel a little guilty about the “travel hack” I’ve just boasted about.
LZY: Tell me, what’s your travel hack?
Looking away from his eyes filled with interest, I try hard to compose myself. Then, I raise my chin with a false bravado.
MC: Your strategy is amazing, and it just so happens that my hack can make it even more perfect!
He noncommittally arches an eyebrow, waiting for me to continue.
MC: Recently, there’s a trending travel vow making waves on the internet…
LZY: …sure enough, it’s a childish game.
MC: No, it’s not! Only the people who are closest to each other can take this vow together!
Seeing my eager expression, he sighs in compromise.
LZY: How do we take the vow?
Not giving him a chance to regret it, I promptly raise my right hand to the side of my forehead and gesture for him to follow suit.
Li Zeyan remains silent for a moment, but eventually, he still closes his right hand into a fist and raises it awkwardly.
LZY: It’s silly.
MC: We’re being silly together~
My eyes crinkle into a smile, and I hand him the vow from my phone.
MC: I solemnly vow, during our anniversary trip, to never cry out because of being tired, to never stay cooped up all day lying in bed, to never get upset over taking ugly photos.
LZY: With mutual tolerance and accommodation, we will complete all the planned activities.
MC: Should anyone violate––
Realizing that his voice has suddenly ceased to be heard, I look to my side with confusion, only to find him staring at the vow with a crease between his brows.
LZY: “An irreconcilable conflict will be declared between the two parties”?
MC: The vow can be effective only when the punishment is severe enough~ Looks like a certain someone is scared now.
Brushing off my immensely complacent expression, he regards me with a contemplative look.
LZY: [he’s amused af LOL] Before proceeding, let’s clarify what “irreconcilable conflict” actually means for our situation.
LZY: Do you intend to return all of Huarui’s (LFG) investment?
MC: [confused] …Eh?
LZY: Also, which one of us will Pudding reside with?
MC: [even more confused] …Pudding?
LZY: And, moving forward, the entrance to Souvenir…
MC: W-W-W-WAIT!
I finally catch on and promptly extend my hand to cover his mouth in an attempt to prevent more dangerous and dreadful words from escaping.
MC: How can such icy words come out of your 37-degree Celsius mouth!
–
[T/N]: In case the joke escapes anyone, 37°C = 98.6°F, which is the normal body temperature – quite close to the boiling temperature and a far cry from the freezing point, so “technically,” he shouldn’t be able to say such “icy/ chilling” words 😂
–
LZY: [laughs softly] Just wanted to confirm whether a certain someone who is beside herself with joy actually has any practical plans.
LZY: But I think someone else is feeling scared at the moment.
The slightly curved corners of his lips leave a tingling sensation in my palm, giving away a hint of teasing.
Realizing that he is deliberately messing with me, I can’t help but feel indignant.
MC: I’m not scared at all; increasing the challenge a bit more is perfectly fine with me.
LZY: As long as you don’t regret it.
Faced with his amused gaze, I clench my teeth and lay out the rules.
MC: How about counting by the number of times someone fails to keep their vows? Each violation results in a deduction of one point, and the person with the lower score shoulders all the consequences.
LZY: To avoid any attempts to dodge responsibility, let the other person have the authority for judgment.
MC: What if we end up with a tie?
LZY: What would you want to do?
MC: I most certainly don’t want to split up with you!
Upon hearing my immediate, unfiltered answer, he lets out a muffled chuckle.
LZY: In that case, after the game begins, make sure to uphold this attitude of yours.
[CN] MLQC Season 2 Chapter 54 Translation (Lucien's Route - Part 1)
⚠️ SPOILER ALERT ⚠️
This post contains a VERY HEAVY SPOILER for the chapter that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~
"Speaking of which, if there's a beautiful dream, would you like to stay in it with me?"
"A beautiful dream? Is it the kind where I don't have to go to work every day?"
"More beautiful than that—it's a dream where we can always be by each other's side."
Translation under the cut!
Previous Lucien’s chapter -> [Here]
[Background Info]
Please read Lucien's previous chapter first before this chapter jnsnjsdjd. Lucien might feel OOC if you don't.
Long story short, although the world already diverted from its original path of heading toward destruction caused by a comet, now the world is ascending to the fourth dimension and the rifts are the manifestation of it. The boys' each route is basically how they deal with it.
About me dividing it into parts- the S2 Chapter 54 is FULLY translated and released at once. Just for fun, I divided it like this so you can also choose and get bad endings just like in-game~
[Chapter 54-1]
In the office, I occasionally hear birds chirping outside as if they are singing in celebration of the arrival of a new day.
I type the last Enter key in the document, click the save button in the top left corner, and take a deep breath.
A client I've been pursuing for a long time finally showed interest in collaboration yesterday. However, they also presented additional requirements, requesting a draft proposal by noon today.
I'm working overtime with my colleagues, and we've finally put together a decent draft.
I asked Anna to send the document to the client's contact person and I massaged my sore shoulder.
Beside me, Kiki suddenly leans over and shakes her phone.
Kiki: Boss, I just discovered a hidden gem of a beverage shop! I heard their best-selling hot chocolate is especially delicious. Do you want to order takeout together?
MC: Sure, send me the link to check it out~
I open the store page, and the cover features promotional image of their best-selling drink. However, the packaging looks a bit familiar.
=Flashback Start=
Lucien: On the way to your company just now, I happened to come across a newly opened beverage shop.
Lucien: The staff recommended this "Orange Hot Chocolate", and I thought it might be to your liking. Do you want to give it a try?
He hands a steaming paper cup into my hand and passes on his warm scent with it.
MC: Wow- it's delicious! It has the refreshing fragrance of oranges and is quite sweet. But I can't keep something this good all to myself~
I raise the paper cup and bring it to him, Lucien bends his eyes to a smile and lowers his head. His hair gently falls amidst the dense steam and----
=Flashback Ends=
The sweet warmth from the memory gradually surfaces at the corner of my lips, and I shake my phone at Kiki.
MC: I'll pass for now; I suddenly remembered I have something to do and need to step out for a bit. Go ahead and order; it's on me!
As I speak, I walk towards the exit and pick up my phone to send a message to that person in my heart.
MC: "Professor Lucien, are you still in? I'll come over now to see you~"
Lucien quickly replied with two voice messages, accompanied by a sticker of a little fox looking dizzy while doing experiments.
Lucien: I just finished a task, now I'm pondering on how to capture a photo of the scenery outside the window that hints I miss you a bit.
Lucien: But I'm happy because you'll get to see it in person soon.
I reply to him with a smile while briskly walking in the direction of the beverage shop. I can't help but feel that this year's winter isn't as cold as it seems.
MC: Hello, give me two cups of "Orange Hot Chocolate," please.
Clerk: I'm sorry, but we just ran out of the ingredients for that beverage this morning. Can I offer you a different flavor instead?
MC: ...Oh, okay.
Feeling a bit disappointed, I point to the "Rich Winter Hot Chocolate" on the side of the menu.
MC: I'll go with this one.
The clerk starts preparing the drinks and hands me the two cups after a moment.
Clerk: Please be mindful of the cup's rim, it's hot.
MC: Okay, thank you.
I instinctively reach out, my gaze still fixed on the phone screen. With a muffled sound and liquid splashing in my peripheral vision, I abruptly snap back to reality.
MC: ...Oops!
I frantically try to catch the fallen cups, but it's too late.
The newly changed shirt takes the brunt of it, and the little mochi* beside me isn't spared either, now adorned with unsightly brown stains.
[T/N: The little mochi is a keychain that Lucien gave to MC in the last chapter]
MC: …..
Frustration and speechlessness well up within me. I impatiently grab tissues to wipe it, but the effect is minimal.
So, I quickly ran to the restroom, wetting the stained areas with water. Despite my persistent efforts, hot water successfully turned a few drops of chocolate stains into a large light brown patch.
Looking at my disheveled reflection in the mirror, I take a deep breath.
Forget it, who cares! Lucien won't mind anyway. Thinking so, I hastily walk out, only to be tripped suddenly—
I manage to grab onto the wall, preventing the third mishap of the day.
MC: ….
Why does it feel like I've been a bit unlucky since leaving the office...
Suppressing my dismay, I push open the shop door, and the cold wind hits me as the wet clothes turn stiff.
Without thinking, I quicken my pace. Let's just walk faster, get there a bit sooner, and see the person who can soothe all my irritations.
Fortunately, the way to the Bioscience Research Institute is smooth.
The elevator carries me up, and when the door opens, a somewhat familiar voice reaches my ears.
??: ...So, you want to activate it again.
It's Cyril's voice... How could he be here? I freeze when I see Lucien standing in the corridor not far away from Cyril.
Lucien: This is a necessary step to obtain the results.
Cyril: May we both achieve the worlds we each desire.
Cyril says this as he walks past Lucien towards the direction of the elevator. When our eyes meet, his cold gaze blinks, seemingly surprised.
Cyril: Didn't expect to see you here.
MC: ...Shouldn't I be saying that?
I can't help but make a sarcastic remark, but Cyril doesn't answer my question. Instead, he takes another step in my direction and speaks calmly.
Cyril: Have you made a decision about the matter I asked you last time?
Our conversation in the jewelry store flashes through my mind. I look into his clear eyes and shake my head.
MC: I still need time to consider.
MC: After all, the world in the dream is false. If there's another solution, I don't want to choose this method.
Cyril nods, his expression as calm as ever.
Cyril: I understand.
Cyril: But if you delay further, you might fall behind.
Fall behind... what does he mean?
I'm slightly taken aback. Before I can ask, Cyril has naturally walked past me.
His slender figure, accompanied by unhurried footsteps, quickly disappears into the elevator.
MC: Why does he never make things clear...
I glance back from Cyril's departing figure, and when I look up, I see Lucien walking towards me.
His gaze inevitably falls on the large stain on my clothes, then slowly moves to my face.
I thought he might ask what happened or say something comforting, but he just smiles lightly and speaks.
Lucien: I smell the scent of hot chocolate, but it's different from the previous one.
I blink in surprise. It’s as if the earlier worries have suddenly dissipated and I take a step closer to him.
MC: It's the Rich Winter Hot Chocolate~ from the same shop as the "Orange Hot Chocolate" you brought last time.
I open the bag, watching as Lucien takes out one cup and uses his other hand to push open the office door.
Meanwhile, a researcher comes out from behind the door. As they pass each other, Lucien's hand holding the cup inadvertently shakes a little.
The cup tilts ever so slightly, and a few drops of hot chocolate splash onto his cuff.
Lucien: Hmm... This is troublesome.
He walks into the office and fixes the glasses on the bridge of his nose in a slightly distressed manner.
Lucien: I'm not very good at dealing with these stains. Can you help me think of a solution?
He says it quite seriously as if facing a challenging problem. I can't help but laugh, feeling a softness in my heart.
The little thoughts I keep to myself never need to be explicitly stated; this person always understands them.
MC: Of course. But I just learned from personal experience that you shouldn't use hot water.
MC: Unexpectedly, both Professor Lucien and I are getting a bit of chocolate "favor" today.
Lucien: Hearing MC say that makes this small trouble seem kind of cute.
We exchange smiles, and he raises the cup, gently tapping it against the one in my hand.
Lucien: So, before dealing with it, let's toast to these cute little troubles today.
-
[Chapter 54-3]
Following Lucien's footsteps, we enter the laboratory deep in the corridor. Unlike the usual laboratories filled with the smell of disinfectant, the air here is surprisingly fresh.
Lucien skillfully takes several bottles of reagents from the shelf and places them on the table.
Lucien: If you want to deal with stubborn hot chocolate stains, there are actually many methods.
Lucien: The reagents in front of us can all address our current predicament at a molecular level.
MC: But using them to clean up little chocolate spills, wouldn't that be a bit wasteful?
Lucien: How about considering it as conducting a fun little chemistry experiment?
His words create a cascade of ripples in my heart, and I can't help but laugh, pretending to roll up my sleeves and stand up straight.
MC: Well then, Professor, please give me instructions~
The transparent bottles and jars in the laboratory reflect the cold light from the overhead lamp.
Under Lucien's guidance, I pour the reagents into the beaker, submerging the little mochi treated as the "experimental subject".
Its originally dull fluff becomes damp, and soon, a faint color begins to emerge.
MC: It works quickly!
Lucien: After all, it hasn't been stained for a long time. As long as we target the lipid-soluble pigments appropriately, solving it is not difficult.
After confirming the results, we also took care of the clothes stained with the hot chocolate spills.
I inadvertently turn my head and see a few scattered experiment documents on the nearby table.
MC: "The possibility of transferring perception through neural links"... Is this your recent research direction?
Lucien's gaze sweeps over the proposal, placing the stirring rod on the dark rubber tabletop.
Lucien: It's... a kind of unexpected gain.
Lucien: In a recent neuroscience experiment, we discovered a similar phenomenon, but it has been temporarily set aside for now.
My gaze lingers on the obscure experiment documents for a moment, then turns to Lucien's composed face.
Thinking about my recent overwhelming matters, I can't help but let out a "sob".
MC: Darn it, how come I don't have a brain that can multitask problems like yours...
I mutter wearily, and Lucien immediately strokes my head.
Lucien: (chuckle) It seems there is indeed a challenging problem troubling our Great Producer.
MC: Absolutely, a super-sized problem!
MC: I need to absorb some of Professor Lucien's intelligence energy to make my thoughts clearer too.
I rest my head on his shoulder, rubbing against it, and hear a soft laugh by my ear.
Lucien turns towards me, pulling me into his embrace.
Lucien: If that's the case, then you can absorb a bit more.
I "hmm" in agreement, and after a moment, I lift my head, looking at Lucien with a feigned look of grievance.
MC: Professor Lucien is so cooperative; he doesn't think I'm silly, does he?
Lucien is slightly surprised. He places a hand on his lips, his voice carrying a clear sense of amusement.
Lucien: Miss Producer, if you think like that, you're unfairly judging me.
Lucien: What I meant is, there's still a troublesome future waiting for us.
I lock eyes with Lucien for a moment, only then realizing he's referring to the troubles we faced in the rift before.
Being captured in the glass chamber in NW, the chaotic escape during the pursuit... scenes after scenes flash before my eyes.
After a moment of silence, I let out a deep sigh.
MC: Oh no, let's just not talk about this for now. Let me be an ostrich a little longer...
MC: Dealing with the troubles at hand is already more than enough for me to handle.
I suddenly pause in my words, realizing something.
MC: Lucien, what if there are other troubles in the world at that time point? Would NW not have the time to deal with me?
Lucien: For example?
MC: For example... I recently saw a terrifying vision.
MC: Our world will face countless disasters in the future, and everyone's lives will be in ruins.
Thinking about those devastating scenes, my voice unintentionally carries a hint of gravity.
Lucien: Is this what has been troubling you these days?
I nod with a hint of distress.
MC: I really want to find a solution, but I have no clue where to start.
MC: How could these disasters suddenly happen out of nowhere? I always feel like there's a missing key link in the middle.
The steady breath falls by my ears, Lucien seems to be thinking seriously, and after a moment, he speaks.
Lucien: Perhaps I can help you find that link.
I instinctively look up, inquiring with a hint of surprise.
MC: Do you already have an idea so quickly?
Lucien: Because the question you mentioned aligns perfectly with my previous hypothesis.
Lucien: Let's go, I'll take you to the laboratory.
The quiet corridor echoes with our footsteps. After turning several corners, we arrive at the entrance of a hidden laboratory.
Lucien raises his hand and enters something on the keyboard on the wall. Accompanied by a series of beeps, the massive door slowly opens before us.
After passing through several rows of intricate instruments, a wall of glass comes into view, enclosing a white, sealed space.
A rift silently stretches across a corner, its edges faintly shimmering. I observe for a moment, then hesitantly speak.
MC: Why do I feel like the shape of this rift is somewhat familiar?
Lucien: Because a few months ago*, we used it to enter NW.
[T/N: refer to what happened in the previous chapter]
MC: It's been so long, and it hasn't closed yet?
I murmur in surprise, but thinking about the recent influx of submissions regarding the prolonged duration of the rift, I decide not to inquire further.
Just out of curiosity, I turn my head and look at Lucien beside me.
MC: Is there a specific reason it was deliberately moved here?
Lucien: No, it just has an unusually long duration, no different from other regular rifts.
MC: So, do I need to do anything? Should I use CORE to close it like before?
With my previous experience, this doesn't seem like a challenging issue for me. However, Lucien shakes his head.
He then picks up a small glass orb-shaped device from the lab bench.
Lucien: This time, our goal is not elimination but addition.
MC: Addition? It can't be as simple as figuring out 1 + 1 equals 2 to find the crucial link, can it?
I blink with a bit of confusion, but Lucien doesn't seem inclined to provide further explanation, a mysterious smile playing on his lips.
Seeing him deliberately keeping me in suspense, I clear my throat and pout, then take the device from his palm.
MC: Alright, I'll listen to your explanation later~
I exhale deeply, invoking that familiar power within me once again.
The device in my hand trembles slightly. I lift my head seemingly in response. I look expectantly at the rift behind the glass.
The next moment, it suddenly enlarges before my eyes.
-
[Chapter 54-5]
The rift expands without any warning, like a wound suddenly torn open, stretching out before me and Lucien.
I pause for a moment, unable to help but softly exclaim, "Wow," swiftly turning my head to look at Lucien.
MC: Lucien, its area expanded so much in just an instant!
Lucien: Well, it seems our "addition" has worked.
Lucien: With this, perhaps the link you're looking for will soon appear.
As Lucien speaks, his inky eyes slightly narrow, there's a hint of cunning in his voice.
I lock eyes with him for a moment, unrelentingly leaning closer to him.
MC: No more teasing! What's the connection between this experiment and the "critical link"?
Lucien takes the instrument from my hand and places it back on the lab table, looking at me with an unhurried look.
Lucien: This experiment shows that the impact of CORE on the rift is actually bidirectional.
Lucien: Apart from closing, it can also trigger the expansion of the rift.
I contemplate his words for a moment, then ask with a hint of confusion.
MC: But what happens after the rift expands?
Lucien: The change in area is just the most apparent manifestation. In reality, the energy within the rift is also expanding.
Lucien: Once it surpasses a certain critical point, it spontaneously seeks a more suitable "outlet", no longer manifesting catastrophically.
Lucien: This way, the situation you're concerned about won't occur.
[T/N: Not gonna lie, I'm not sure how to explain this one except that it's similar to how the stars turn into a supergiant and then white dwarf once it runs out of fuel lol. Or once the rift is big enough it'll let go of the energy less chaotically. Anyway, it's just sci-fi don't think about it too deeply]
The question that had troubled me for a long time was resolved so casually. I blink my eyes, feeling a bit surreal.
MC: ...Is it really that simple?
Lucien: The essence of this issue is not as complicated as it may seem.
Lucien: But if the lady wishes for a more convoluted approach, I can certainly give it a try.
MC: No need! I trust Professor Lucien's discovery, of course~
The heavy gloom that shrouded my heart finally reveals a glimmer of hope. My tone lightens involuntarily, and with a touch of anticipation, I speak.
MC: What do we need to do next? I'll do everything I can to help~
Lucien's gaze shifts to the window, seemingly lost in thought for a moment. He changes out of his research attire and opens his mouth with a light smile.
Lucien: I do have an invitation.
Lucien: Next, let's go and see the snow.
After a simple drying process, I hold the small mochi keychain that has regained its fluffiness and whiteness. I follow Lucien down the stairs with light steps. As we step out of the Bioscience Research Institute, I blink in surprise.
Countless delicate snowflakes silently dance in the air—this year's first snow has arrived so quietly.
The snowflakes gently blanket everything around in pristine white.
I can't help but raise my hand, catching a few falling snowflakes. Lucien looks at me, and his eyes seem to soften a bit.
Lucien: You look particularly happy.
MC: Of course~ I've been looking forward to a scene like this for a very long time.
MC: This time last year, I was running around in a time loop, searching for dark matter...
MC: There was never enough time, and I never had the mood to stop and appreciate this scenery.
MC: Until spring arrived, we never had the chance to quietly watch the snow together.
He tightens his grip on my hand. Lucien seems to follow my lead, tilting his head upward, quietly gazing in the direction of the falling snow.
A few delicate snowflakes land on his eyelashes, softly melting away without a sound.
Through the warm night, I hear his gentle voice.
Lucien: (softly) Perhaps… this belated snowfall is a gift for us now.
The fine snowflakes soften the features of the person before my eyes.
As the snow gradually intensifies, pure white flakes float down from the distant sky, quietly tinting the boundless night in serenity.
Reluctant to part with such fervent snowfall, we return to the car.
Lucien casually turns on the radio, and light music immediately fills the car. Accompanied by the swirling snow outside, it feels like a scene from a crystal ball.
I rest my head on Lucien's shoulder, gently rubbing against it, unable to help but murmur with emotion.
MC: So beautiful... it's like a dream.
The sounds of the evening breeze wafting in through the window crack resembled a delicate and subtle white noise. The fatigue from staying up all night last night gradually surfaces.
The phone screen lights up for a moment, and the digital clock shows eight in the evening. I let out a gentle yawn.
MC: I can't believe I'm tired at this hour... blame it on the recent excessive overtime.
Lucien shifted, allowing me to lean more securely on him, and he spoke in a gentle tone.
Lucien: (in a very, very gentle tone) Have you been tired lately?
I nod and lazily begin counting with the fingers resting on my knee.
MC: I'm exhausted... there's a ton of tasks at work to push through, and I also need to figure out how to save the world.
MC: It either keeps me tossing and turning in insomnia or gives me a night full of nightmares.
Lucien: (gently) What kind of nightmares are you having?
I vaguely recall for a moment and make an exaggerated gesture.
MC: I've been snatched away by a dinosaur this big—
MC: And I've been flattened by this many project proposals—
MC: But you know~ After waking up, as long as I see the messages you send me, all those dinosaurs, all those project proposals, seems like nothing!
Lucien: (chuckle) Mm... I've had that kind of dream too. I wonder if the dinosaur that snatched us is the same one.
Lucien gently squeezes my hand, a hint of uncontrollable laughter in his voice.
I imagine the scene and can't help but burst into laughter as well.
Lucien: (laughs softly) Silly, next time, come knock on my door before you get snatched away by a dinosaur.
The snow outside falls gently, and Lucien speaks amidst the delicate melody.
Lucien: (murmur softly) Speaking of which, if there's a beautiful dream, would you like to stay in it with me?
MC: A beautiful dream? Is it the kind where I don't have to go to work every day?
Lucien: More beautiful than that—it's a dream where we can always be by each other's side.
MC: If there's such a thing I'm willing to dream it for eight lifetimes!
A low chuckle comes from above my head. His voice quietly melts into the night breeze, sounding like a casual sigh.
Lucien: What if I say, I hope never to wake up from this dream with you?
MC: That sounds good too. As long as I'm with you, anywhere is fine…
I blink my heavy eyelids and hear a soft laugh beside my ear. A warmth covers my eyes that I find a bit hard to open.
Winter seems to have truly arrived after that night's first snowfall.
With the dropping temperatures, a layer of frost forms on the branches along the river and roadsides. The news on the streets gradually shifts to reports about snow and cold prevention.
I pull my gaze away from the lengthy red light outside the car window and engage the handbrake.
The rift continues to quietly spread, casting shadows of various sizes throughout the city.
However, for some reason, the popularity of news related to the rift is steadily decreasing, and the submissions on this topic are dwindling.
Perhaps people have become completely accustomed to these rifts. Despite some lingering confusion, I do feel a sense of relief.
The green light in the middle of the road lights up, and I put away my phone. After turning a few corners, a spacious bridge suddenly appears before me.
...Strange, there were so many cars just a moment ago. How did it suddenly become so empty?
A hint of confusion creeps in as I carefully survey the surroundings, finding nothing unusual.
As I drive onto the bridge, I suddenly feel the wheels slipping. I instinctively hit the brakes, but the road in the rearview mirror shows no signs of anomalies.
Just as I fall into bewilderment, the throttle gauge on the dashboard spins violently.
The tires emit a harsh, squeaking sound as they uncontrollably move forward.
MC: What's happening...?
Before I can grasp the situation, there's a distinctly audible sound of shattering beneath the car. The next second, the car suddenly plummets.
MC: ....!
I struggle to push open the car door, but the resistance of the water turns my efforts into futility.
No matter how hard I pound and shove, the door remains steadfast. Only the icy water keeps pouring in through the window crack.
The air inside the car diminishes, and I strain to tilt my head upward, closing my eyes in a somewhat desperate attempt.
The world before me gradually fades into darkness.
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[CN] Kiro's 6th Anniversary Event Story - Final Part
🌸 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for content that hasn't been released on the EN server yet! 🌸
Originally, I hadn't planned on translating this event, but I'm making an exception for this part because it was just TOO CUTE!!! 😭💕
For context, this year's anniversary event is all about travelling to various spots in Loveland with your love and taking part in various couple activities. You can read the prologue here.
The following is the event's final plot for Kiro and MC.
Even though it is winter, due to the unique conditions of Clear-Spring Mountain, flowers still continue to bloom all over the mountains and plains.
Opening the convertible of the retro sports car, we drive towards the mountains, all the while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
I have made a reservation in advance at the Honey Farm located in a sea of flowers in the mountains. Many blogger couples have commented that the activities at this place are very sweet.
Kiro: The first step is to beat the eggs... separate the egg whites... then add the sugar... granulated sugar? lumps of sugar?
Seeing Kiro casually talk while driving, I smile and gently squeeze his shoulder.
MC: Pfft, if the baking teacher comes to know that there are students who have prepped in advance, they'll be very touched.
Kiro: Don't make fun of me. If the summer island kitchen bombing incident happens again, I really will go into a tree hole on the farm.
MC: Don't worry, with me here, our cake will only succeed, not fail.
MC: After all, we both want to draw a perfect end to our journey here~
Seems like my comfort is somewhat effective. Kiro smiles and squeezes my palm, then slightly speeds up the accelerator.
Kiro: Then I'll also study hard. So that when you want to eat cake in the future, I can make it for you with my own hands.
-
Teacher: Welcome both of you, to our sweet couple activities...
Teacher: ...We first need to beat the egg mixture with sugar into a thick, fluffy foam. Next...
After the teacher explains the steps to make the cake, it is our turn to practice them.
Kiro: Come, let me try it.
Kiro takes the egg beater from my hand and beats it carefully. Seeing the egg liquid beginning to turn white, I quickly speak in affirmation.
MC: That's right - stop!
Before I can finish speaking, I see him dig out a big spoonful of sugar and pouring it into the container. I quickly hold down his arm.
MC: Sugar was added before, no need to add more!
Kiro: Is it enough? But the amount that was added before seemed so small. Will it be sweet enough?
That extremely serious gaze makes me clearly realize at this moment why this person is known as a "kitchen killer".
Recipe books and instructional videos tell us the most accurate steps, sometimes even down to the grams.
But for a "feeler" like Kiro, instead of telling him what is right, it is better to let him adjust step by step based on his own feelings.
So, I gently let go of my hand.
MC: Hmm... Actually, I'm not sure if the previous proportion is the sweetness we prefer.
MC: So just follow your own ideas. If it's too sweet, we can just add less sugar next time~
Kiro: Mm, I think so too. We still gotta make a cake that suits us best.
He grows slightly excited and digs out two more spoons of sugar and adds them in. Seeing the sugar bag almost bottoming out, I can't help but "comfort" myself in my heart.
As long as Kiro is happy.
Then, he continues completing the honey cake embryos one after another under my "guidance" and then puts them in the oven.
Kiro: 160°, 40 minutes, done!
-
Once we are done, the staff takes us to a glass greenhouse to wait.
I look at the "sweet space" before me that is temporarily exclusive to us--
Lush branches, leaves and flowers sway in the wind, surrounding the entire area with spring, accompanied with bursts of fragrance.
There is a coffee table and sofa in the center of the greenhouse, and the bookshelf on the side lists various board games, providing a variety of entertainment options.
Kiro: "What do you and your significant other have in common?"
I follow the sound and turn around, finding Kiro standing in front of a wall, seemingly looking at something.
MC: What is that?
Kiro: Hmm... Two questions were asked above. It seems to be a small game to enhance feelings.
I walk over quickly and whisper another question.
MC: "What are the differences between you and your significant other?"
I pause and subconsciously look at Kiro, only to find him already gazing at me with a smile.
Kiro: Though the question seems to be simple... I'm still curious about Miss Chips' answer.
MC: That's quite the coincidence. I'm also curious about your answer.
We tacitly smile at each other, pick up the pen and paper on the table and sit down.
MC: So let's each write our own and then exchange them?
He responds with a smile and starts to write. I also unfold the white paper and think about the similarities between us.
The afternoon sun fills the table with warmth, and for a while, it becomes so quiet that I am only able to hear the scratching of the tips of our pens across the paper.
After a while, I stop writing, and the chair next to me makes a slight scraping sound.
MC: Seems like we've written everything. Let's start from the first question.
Kiro: Okay, I'll go first!
Kiro: You and I have a lot in common, the most similar thing being that we are each other's favorite people.
MC: --Pfft! Your answer is also the first common thing I wrote down~
Seeing me poking at my letter paper, Kiro's eyes show a satisfied smile.
Kiro: As expected of us.
Kiro: My next answer is that we are also the people who make each other the happiest.
MC: No matter how late the other person is working over time, we will always leave a light on in the living room.
Kiro: We both love small animals, but Cello and Apple Box are always first in our hearts.
MC: We always have a strong sense of curiosity, and any of our adventurous ideas can be achieved invariably.
The sun moves slowly, and those words spoken out finally turn into brighter smiles on our faces.
After answering the first question, I lower my eyes and look at my letter paper.
MC: Actually, we have a lot of differences, but they all seem to complement each other.
MC: Since you're a master gamer, no complex level is difficult enough to beat you.
MC: Without you there to teach me, I would have been forever stuck in one place, unable to enjoy the total fun.
I look at the person in front of me as if the past has arrived with its answer, embracing me like the bright sun.
Kiro: Then you are a master producer. No matter how complicated the set is, you can make it orderly.
MC: You always know what you want most and you never compromise.
Kiro: My Miss Chips is also very strong. Nothing can "defeat" you.
We look into each other's eyes and say those extremely sincere words.
Then, my eyes stop at the last line of the letter and I fold it with a smile.
MC: Although we have many similarities and differences, there is one thing that I'm very sure of.
MC: You have always been braver than me, and kinder than me.
MC: You always allow me to see the brightest and gentlest side of the world.
MC: Therefore, I can feel very clearly that every day, every minute and every second of these six years--
MC: Being with you has been such a fortunate and happy thing. I think the best thing that has ever happened to me in my life--
MC: Has been meeting you.
I quietly look at the person in front of me, the one who loves me the most, hoping that my sincerity can be conveyed to him a thousand times more through words.
Kiro: [inhaling a shaky breath and exhaling softly] .....
The sunlight outside the window seems to freeze in this moment, quietly falling into Kiro's blue eyes.
He stands up, walks over to me, squats down, encloses his palms on the back of my hands and smiles brightly.
Kiro: When you say that, I can't help but wonder how good I must seem in your eyes... to be worthy of your description.
MC: Then you can use all kinds of exaggerated imagination, because nothing can be as good as you are.
MC: The ordinary sunshine, and those flowers and sceneries all shine after you appear.
MC: You make me feel that this world is wonderful because you are in it.
I lower my head and gently hold his palm.
MC: So, even if this journey ends, can you continue to hold my hand like this every day from now on...?
MC: Walk with me through everything in the world, and never let go.
MC: Okay?
Before he can say anything, a "ding" sound comes from the door, which seems to indicate that the cake has been baked.
Footsteps come from outside, but right at that moment, Kiro picks me up by the waist and hides us among the lush green branches and leaves that were behind us.
The next second, he gently kisses me.
The green leaves covering the top of our heads sway gently in the wind, dancing with shadowy golden light spots.
Teacher: Guests, the cake you baked - hey, where have they gone?
The sound coming from the door has long since turned blurry. What is clear to me is his soft breathing.
For some reason, I keep feeling like I have tasted the sweetest bite even before eating the cake.
He seems to think so too as the honey-eating bear in front of me has already raised the corners of his lips.
Kiro: Before I answer your question, I don't want anyone interrupting us.
He presses close to my lips, his azure eyes more dazzling than anything else.
Kiro: But I have just told you with practical actions.
Kiro: No matter how many years pass, no matter how many sceneries and how much of happiness you will pass by with me in the future.
Kiro: The sweetest one will always be the one I give to you.
This post contains a detailed spoiler for a date that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~
"Alright~ just another tiny ten minutes of bed lazing."
"Only ten minutes?"
"Um... how about an extra ten minutes then?"
"Just twenty minutes?"
"...Just twenty minutes! Lucien, you're not allowed to tempt me again."
His triumphant laugh is muffled in my ears. I have always been powerless against him and I bite his collarbone in frustration.
[Part 1]
Dim light penetrates the darkness and falls onto my retina. The world feels warm, shedding the drowsiness bit by bit like the ebbing tide.
Sunlight generously pours in from the three surrounding French windows, illuminating this wooden cabin atop the mountain.
I rub my eyes. After adjusting to the light, I look out the window.
Shadows of trees covered in snow are particularly clear. The sea of white seems to lead to the end of the world. It makes me momentarily feel as if I'm lying in the snowy expanse of the mountain woods.
Lucien: (in a sleepy but gentle voice) Good morning.
His warmth envelops my back, carrying the familiar scent that wraps around me. I smile as I turn around, and fall into an even more beautiful dream.
MC: (smiles softly) Morning. So you're awake too.
Lucien: It seems my wake-up duty was taken care of by the "early bird" today.
MC: Pfft, blame it on the overly enthusiastic first ray of morning sunshine. Great Professor Lucien, just let it be~
Lucien squints his eyes, exuding a rare sense of laziness and sleepiness. I can't help but poke his face, and he seizes my finger, pulling me into a tighter embrace.
Lucien: (whispers sleepily) Then, don't take advantage of its goodwill. Let's just indulge a little longer.
His warm breath falls on top of my head, and I affectionately nuzzle into his embrace, closing my eyes contentedly.
MC: Alright~ just another tiny ten minutes of bed lazing.
Lucien: (chuckles softly) Only ten minutes?
MC: Um... how about an extra ten minutes then?
Lucien: (whispers with temptation) Just twenty minutes?
MC: ...Just twenty minutes! Lucien, you're not allowed to tempt me again.
His triumphant laugh is muffled in my ears. I have always been powerless against him and I bite his collarbone in frustration.
MC: Although lazing around doing nothing with you for two days is not bad.
MC: But it’s better to welcome the sunrise and embrace the sunlight at the earliest moment, I always feel that casually neglecting these moments would be too unfair to the weekend.
Lucien: It sounds like you already have a rough plan for this short vacation.
The window sill beads with faint droplets due to the temperature difference and the warm sunlight bathes people warmly but also uplifts our moods.
MC: Haha, can we consider wandering freely and stopping as we please as a plan?
Lucien: Mm, of course.
The arms around my back tighten imperceptibly and the skin pressed together takes on the same warmth.
MC: It's really comfortable... How about we start over our twenty-minute bed-lazing time from now?
Lucien: (chuckles) As long as you want, we can start over as many times as you like.
[Part 2]
Actually, this weekend trip was a "spur-of-the-moment" idea that came up during a barbecue yesterday.
=Flashback start=
Lucien: Seasonal affective disorder?
I nod, picking up a large piece of diaphragm from the sizzling tray. After rolling it around in the dry dish, I satisfyingly stuff it into my mouth.
MC: Today, I heard Kiki and the others chatting about this topic.
I say this while taking a big bite of blueberry cake. The perfectly balanced creamy sweetness makes me squint my eyes in satisfaction.
MC: People tend to feel sleepy and lack energy in winter, which is caused by insufficient sunlight exposure.
MC: The best solution is to eat barbecue and sweets in the sunlight. The principle seems to be... regulating serotonin levels?
MC: Although I'm not an expert, it does seem quite effective!
MC: Right now, I feel there's nothing happier than being with someone I like, having a barbecue and cake on the best sunny afternoon in winter!
Lucien looks thoughtful as he gazes at the sunlight outside, his eyes sweeping over the barbecue and sweets on the table. He smiles and picks up a piece of beef, offering it to me.
Lucien: (chuckles) So that's how it is.
Detecting the teasing tone in his voice, I obediently pick up a piece of beef tongue and place it on his plate.
Lucien: (teasingly) I thought the Great Producer came all the way to have lunch with me, but it turns out to be a small scientific experiment?
MC: I wouldn't dare to show off in front of the great scientist.
MC: Moreover, Professor Lucien. If that's the case, then you are the biggest variable in this experiment.
Lucien raises an eyebrow slightly, showing a look of attentiveness.
MC: Whether it's sunshine, barbecue, or cake, perhaps they indeed have scientific bases for regulating physiological functions.
His gaze consistently rests on me, and I vaguely feel my cheeks warming. It's hard to discern if it's from the charcoal fire or the sunlight.
MC: But there are also many things that defy reason, beyond the reach of scientific proof.
MC: For example, in my case, your presence is the best way to regulate my physiological well-being.
MC: ...Why are you silent?
Lucien: I'm just thinking, this is not good.
MC: Um?
Lucien: If I don't run faster now, I might not keep up with the Great Producer's ability to say romantic lines.
He says it so matter-of-factly, yet it feels like a small handful of charcoal sparks crackling has landed in my heart.
I smile and push the cake on my side toward him, propping up my chin with a thoughtful expression.
MC: You say... if there are variables, does that mean the combination of sunlight, protein, and sugar is not the sole solution?
Lucien: For example?
Lucien naturally picks up where I left off, and like me, he takes a chopstick, dips it in sauce, and starts drawing on the plate.
MC: For example... if we maximize sunlight while keeping the other two constants, would the sense of satisfaction still be the same?
Lucien: If you sequentially control the variables, perhaps different chemical reactions might indeed occur.
I feel as if we're not in a barbecue restaurant but in his office, facing a whiteboard, discussing some important and profound problem.
His deep, profound eyes narrow slightly, and the fingertips of his other hand rhythmically tap on the tabletop.
Lucien: For example, embracing the sunlight at the moment of sunrise?
MC: That seems to be the idea!
Seemingly thinking of something, Lucien picks up his phone and makes a few taps. When he hands it over to me, the screen displays a confirmation for booking a homestay.
The planned duration is three days and two nights, with the check-in starting today. Judging by the uploaded photos and address, the homestay seems to be located in a mountainous area around Loveland City.
MC: This is…
He pauses, takes my fingertip, and lands it on the phone screen.
Lucien: Since we want to embrace the sunlight as soon as possible, let's go to a place where we can see the sunrise earliest.
Lucien: It's less than three hundred kilometers from here, enough for us to arrive before sunrise.
Lucien: Alright, MC. Now, we can set off whenever you're ready.
=Flashback Ends=
I naturally won't refuse Lucien, even if this weekend trip is indeed a bit unexpected.
In the end, we only indulged in bed for an extra hour before getting up to have breakfast.
The wooden cabin is not large but intricately decorated.
The floor is almost entirely covered with a plush, floral-patterned rug, making the room exceptionally warm.
Two vintage brown sofas are adorned with lace cushions, and in the center is a charming round wooden table with a vase of fresh flowers.
On the side, there's a petite desktop chalkboard with elegant chalk handwriting that reads, "Enjoy your weekend :)."
MC: Lucien, look. The freezer even has instant-heating pizza and pasta, and there's even family-sized ice cream...?
MC: This host must have been too prepared.
Lucien lifts his hand and turns the small vase counterclockwise. With a faint click, a "wall" springs back half an inch, revealing a dark gap.
Lucien: Not only that, I found a hand-drawn map and very professional outdoor equipment in the cabinet at the entrance.
Lucien: It seems that besides being hospitable, the owner of this house also has an adventurous spirit.
Behind the wall is a wooden ladder leading to the attic. It creaks when I step on it but surprisingly is spotless despite its age.
At the top, vintage-colored lights hang in the attic that I can reach with my hand. Facing each other are two leather recliners, there's a nostalgic wall-mounted telephone on the wall.
I blink in astonishment until colors start dancing before my eyes.
Lucien, who pressed the switch behind me, withdraws his hand, and his gaze falls heavily on me.
[Part 3]
Lucien: I think, this place seems to be more than just a display room.
-
Time remains silent but magically presents the traces of the past in front of us. These seemingly decorative antiques feel like silent witnesses.
A strange and wonderful feeling inexplicably arises in my heart, and I squeeze the hand that is holding mine.
MC: Even though we are just temporary "owners" here, it feels like our lives have intersected with another life for a moment.
Lucien: Perhaps the connection between people is inherently objective.
Lucien: Subjective choices or external influences can lead to the occurrence of a relationship, whether it's meeting, running in parallel, or missing each other.
Lucien's gaze falls on the only source of light in the attic, and I feel as if I can see a colorful and shining reflection of myself in those eyes.
MC: Can we call it fate?
Lucien: Hmm. I'm afraid fate may not be sufficient to encompass it all.
—-----------------------------------------------
Lucien: The ripples created by a stone thrown into the lake often not only touch oneself but also reach the person on the other shore.
Lucien: Therefore, before these ripples die down, let's go and explore further.
Before heading out, we take the hand-drawn map and basic outdoor gear left by the landlord, along with a mysterious key that also remains in the cabinet.
Following the map's directions, we arrive at the hill behind the small cabin. In the distance, a lonely lighthouse comes into view.
MC: Is anyone there—
The spacious tower echoes with a muffled sound. As I glance at the not-so-long spiral staircase, I'm about to say something when I hear Lucien's voice.
Lucien: Excuse me—
The deep voice engulfs the trailing notes of my echo. Seeing Lucien mimicking my posture by tilting his head back, I can't help but laugh.
He looks down at me, giving a little shake to our holding hands.
Lucien: Let's go, we've already greeted it.
Ascending the tiered stairs, we quickly reach the top of the tower. There's a rusty iron door, entwined with dark green vines, that leads to a partially open observation deck, revealing the panoramic view of the entire mountain forest.
I walk to the edge of the railing, overlooking the lush landscape adorned with patches of pristine white. I can't resist taking out my phone to capture this scene.
Lucien suddenly calls my name, making me turn my head in confusion.
MC: Ah—this place is so beautiful~ Even the air feels fresher!
Lucien: MC
He holds a telescope, his dark eyes firmly focused there, as if looking into a more distant place through the lens.
Subconsciously, I aim the camera at him.
And as if sensing my gaze, he turns his head to look at me.
The air is tinged with a faint chill, and the white world is illuminated by sunlight. A cold wind passes through, causing the thick snow on the pine trees to fall into fine, fragmented pieces.
The eyes that were gazing at the world just a second ago are now filled only with me.
Time seems to have stopped, frozen in this moment when he looks at me.
The echoes in the valley resonate with the rhythm of my heartbeat, and even the sunlight seems to favor him, gently falling on his swaying hair.
"Click". I hold up the frozen frame to him, speaking confidently.
Lucien: (teasingly) Weren't we here to capture the scenery?
MC: I am capturing the scenery, you know.
MC: The best scenery is right in front of me. Of course, I have to capture him first~
Lucien's eyes soften. He pulls me into his embrace, and gently rests his chin on the top of my head. Using my hands, he raises the telescope to my eyes.
Lucien: I just spotted an interesting scene, I wouldn't want you to miss it.
I blink my eyes. In the magnified view, the snowy cedar trees appear soft, and a faint shadow can be seen leaping on the snowy ground.
Suddenly, a fluffy brown bundle comes out of nowhere, shaking its head while glancing around. The next moment, it plunges into the snow.
MC: It's a groundhog!!
I exclaim softly, my gaze following that splash of brown, watching as it quickly pops out from another part of the snowy landscape, shaking off a pile of snow, thoroughly enjoying itself.
MC: Hahaha, is it having fun all by itself?
Lucien: Yes and no.
A soft laughter echoes above my head as Lucien tightens his arms, hugging me even closer.
Lucien: After all, in a certain sense, this snowy landscape and sunshine are its companions.
MC: So, the entire mountain forest is its playground.
Perhaps the serene scenery before us prompts a tacit understanding, and we both refrain from speaking. Instead, we nestle close, gazing in the same direction and listening to the echoes of nature.
Stepping on the thin snow beneath our feet brings a crisp sensation, mingled with the rustling sound of the wind sweeping through the mountain forest, creaking and crunching.
MC: Lucien, listen.
Suddenly, I think of something and can't help but smile, then I step on the snow on the ground again.
Crunch, crunch.
At this moment, the entire valley is left with only this one sound.
MC: Isn't it very special? It sounds just like laughter.
Lucien: Mm. It seems like we've discovered the world’s happiness by accident.
As the golden edges of distant mountains slowly come into view at the end of our sight, we leave the lighthouse and begin a leisurely descent along the stone steps in the opposite direction of the small cabin.
-
[Part 4]
Warm yellow ground lights illuminate the winding path, and following the map's guidance, we pass by a lake and a mountain cave.
A chubby snowman, wrapped in a scarf, stands by the roadside with a delightful smile.
Following the distinctive icons on the map, we explore this snowy forest, novelly experiencing the joy brought by this "snowy mystery box".
MC: Lucien, what do you think that little cabin is?
Not far from our line of sight, there sits an exceptionally small wooden cabin. The reddish-brown bricks appear remarkably warm against the snowy landscape.
Curiously, I approach and discover that the name on the doorplate is the same as the cabin owner. However, the entrance is tightly shut, and it seems like there's no one inside.
Recalling the key in my pocket whose purpose I don't know, I widen my eyes and take it out, looking towards Lucien.
MC: Could it be…
Lucien: It appears that we've discovered the true purpose of this key.
He reassuringly lifts the corners of his mouth, raising the hand-drawn map adorned with various symbols.
MC: But wouldn't it be a bit abrupt if we just open the door and go in like this…?
Lucien: I don't think there should be such concerns.
Lucien: Perhaps, this is the "special easter egg" left for us by the interesting landlord.
As we step into the wooden cabin, the entire interior instantly brightens up as if welcoming us.
The entire house doesn't seem very large, but due to the sparse furnishings, it appears somewhat spacious at a glance.
Tiny string lights decorate the surroundings of the room, and the wallpaper is covered with hand-drawn castles and trees, whimsically crooked yet exceptionally charming.
The curtain of the small theater nearby is slightly ajar, and a tent nestles in the corner next to a low bookshelf. The picture book spread out on the floor, bears the traces of some mischievous little child's fondness and reluctance to part with it.
A very familiar small blackboard is leaning diagonally near the entrance, seemingly imbued with a soft and cozy fragrance.
"Welcome, hope you can enjoy here.:)"
It seems like we've stumbled into a dreamy fairy-tale world here, where there are no worries or boundaries, and imagination can turn into reality.
[Lux’s remarks: sobbing at this particular line because of what happened in main story :”D]
MC: (smiles happily) It feels like we've all turned into little kids here~
Lucien: Being little kids is good too.
I walk around the small theater in a circle and notice there are even a few hand puppets on the stage. Perhaps they are props used for performances during gatherings.
Just as I was about to show it off to Lucien, I turned around to find him earnestly flipping through some picture books.
His demeanor becomes softer, I gaze quietly for a moment, and suddenly an idea forms in my mind.
MC: Hello there, little friend!
I crouch behind the wooden board, lifting a small girl puppet high and wiggling my fingers.
[Note: remember that since MC hides behind the board, she can’t see or expect what Lucien will do-]
The little girl with braided hair cutely shakes her head, joyfully calling out to her best friend.
The world pauses for a moment, and soon a familiar voice rings out.
Lucien: (in amused voice) Hello.
The smiling voice draws nearer. Although I can’t see Lucien’s face right now, I can almost picture those eyes brimming with laughter.
MC: I didn't expect anyone else to come and play here. I'm MC. What's your name?
Lucien: I’m Lucien.
Something has grasped my hand, and a faint warmth seeps through the fabric.
MC: Well, little Lucien, would you like to play with me?
Lucien: I’d be delighted to join your game. But I’m not sure if you’d mind. After all…
I look up to see a little fox hugging the little girl.
Lucien: I’m just a little fox.
Lucien crouches on the other side of the wooden board, with that hug remaining in mid-air, softening my heart a bit.
MC: It doesn't matter if you're a little fox.
MC: I like the little fox the most.
The little girl also hugs back tightly, using her hand to gently stroke the little fox's head.
Lucien: Can I get even closer to you?
As the little girl nods vigorously, Lucien's face appears under the brightness.
Lucien: There are still many things I want to accomplish together with you.
MC: Come here, dear little fox!
He doesn't make the little fox let go of the girl's embrace. Instead, while maintaining that hug, he walks behind the wooden board and crouches down next to me.
Lucien: Now, we’re together.
His voice is gentle but sounds as certain as a conclusion of a story.
MC: Well then, let's set off! Today is going to be a good day.
I pick up the rainbow sun puppet prop and wave it over the heads of the two puppets.
He curves his lips, and in those deep, serene eyes, I feel like I see every moment of wonder and dreamy fantasy we've had these past few days.
MC: Where should we go?
Lucien: With such good weather and being with you, we can experience many, many wonderful things.
It seems like a conversation between a little girl and a small fox, but at the same time, it feels like ours.
Lucien: After all, the person who makes wonders happen…. is right by my side.
MC: So, you must have had things you wanted to do before, right? Are you not worried about the "plan" going off-course?
Lucien: Although you're not wrong, I don't think it's a bad thing.
Lucien: Unexpected branches born outside the plan also hold meaningful significance.
The small fox raises its hand and touches the little girl's head, while Lucien also hugs me.
MC: So what you're saying is it's okay to do whatever you want? Even if it doesn't have meaning.
Lucien: I believe "meaning" itself has no fixed definition.
His scent envelops me, gently surrounding me like snow.
Lucien: For instance, right now, I want to hug you, and that is the entire meaning of this moment.
AHHHHHH what a really cute date ~~if we ignore hidden knives that can only be found after you read main story~~. Their interactions are just so heartwarming and sweet huhu. The way it started with them waking up together in the morning and then negotiating with bed lazing is both cute and hilarious. Lucien’s sleepy but gentle voice and triumphant laugh when he gets what he wants just make me SWOON; Their morning banter is reminiscent of Lucien’s Mini House Story when MC is lazing around and Lucien punished her by leaving a mark on her collarbone (funny how the table turned huh-). Lucien’s rare display of childishness and laziness is like uncovering a different side of him.
The barbeque scenes- I can see that MC is a good ‘student’, she learns how to say romantic lines from its master so well. I love how the whole weekend getaway is more of a “spur-of-moment” thing compared to Lucien’s usual style of planning things thoroughly and, in a way is a reference to Lucien’s previous date like [Slow Motion Fireworks MQ] and [Wild Luxury Date].
The whole date feels magical and childlike. The way Lucien and MC explore the snowy landscape, discovering a lighthouse, a groundhog playing in the snow, and then stumbling upon the hidden wooden cabin – it all feels so fantastical and I love every bit of description that the writer wrote. I won’t get tired of saying that, being childlike, for Lucien is a kind of “growth” too.
“The eyes that were gazing at the world just a second ago are now filled only with me.” Is one of my fav lines!! Lucien is someone who always ‘looks’ at the world as a whole, observing it as a scientist. So the transition from observing the external world to focusing on the person he loves is just so!! Ugh. Like a silent declaration that she’s the sole focus of his universe.
And then the discovery of the ‘fairy tale’ cabin! I can’t help but imagine tiny Lucien reading books and then tiny MC calls him over to play puppet with her. The way Lucien chooses the little fox puppet, being clingy even as a puppet (it is as if he’s admitting that yes he is a fox LOL) is cute and funny; the way they end up together is a conclusion that he is sure of (ignoring the main story cough); the way he regards her as marvel (ie. one that causes wonder/magic) my heart can’t take them :”D. ! Not to mention dialogue about doing things outside the plan and finding meaning in the unexpected (even if the meaning is as simple as 'want to be with you)– they’re just so profound and beautiful.
⚡ Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for an Event which hasn't been released in EN yet!⚡
[This was translated with the help of Google translate!]
Everyone: It’s over——!
At [MC company’s name] Company, we eagerly watched as the promotional video for the "Love is on the way" event, which we had been working on for several days, came to an end, marking the beginning of a long-awaited holiday for the entire team.
The "Love is on the way" event, jointly launched by the City Hall and the Tourism Bureau, celebrated Loveland City once again being recognized as the best city for romance.
To encourage citizens to embark on a journey of exploring, conveying, and receiving love with their loved ones, the event specially designed multiple sweet tour routes.
In addition, the City Hall would randomly select numerous lucky citizens to provide them with varying amounts of travel funds.
Minor: I'm so nervous; the draw is about to begin.
Watching everyone in front of me stare at their phone screens with a look of anticipation, I couldn't help but feel excited as I took out my phone.
Soon, the notification sound of text messages echoed continuously.
Anna: I'm coming! I won free tickets for the entire scenic area!
Kiki: Oh my God...I also won, and I can travel on the high-speed train for free in business class seats~
Minor: Are you guys too lucky? Why do I only have a 50% discount coupon for shared bicycles?
MC: Pfft, that does sound a little pitiful.
After everyone received the messages, they all turned to look at me. I could only shake my phone, which still showed no signs of any messages.
MC: Haha, it doesn't matter. Anyway, I originally planned to travel during the holidays. Whether or not I win the lottery will not affect me.
Before I finished speaking, my phone suddenly vibrated.
In the expectant eyes of everyone, I curiously opened the short letter.
"Dear Miss MC, we are delighted to inform you that you have won the Grand Prize, a 'RV Travel Gift Package,' in the 'Love is on the way' lottery event held by the City Hall.
The relevant winning information will be sent to the email address you provided during the registration for the 'Hundred Days impressions' event shortly. Please check your email carefully."
Anya is live and ready to show you everything. Watch her strip, dance, and perform exclusive shows just for you. Interact in real-time and make your fantasies come true.
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⌚Warning⌚ This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 凛冬之约, that is yet to be released on the global server! ♡
[Translation under the cut]
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
【Subbed Video】
[anika’s notes]: I do very very very highly recommend to watch the video for full immersion + absolute god-level voice acting + the gorgeous music pieces!!! ༼;´༎ຶ ༎ຶ༽
—
【Prologue】
I behold
My homeland disappear in the daylight, and emerge in the night.
I behold
The everlasting power engrain within the vast blood of my people.
I behold
A snow-white rose bloom in the winter,
And I behold as it withers in the winter
– each petal sailing across the ocean,
To a kingdom no one can reach.
—
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
—
【Chapter 1】
As the night gradually deepens, the heavy curtains in front of the window are drawn by the attendants, veiling the silvery, meandering moonlight.
I take a deep breath and push open the doors to the royal bedchamber engraved with a luxurious imperial coat of arms.
Inside the bedchamber, my newly wedded husband, King Victor, is fast asleep.
Not long ago, at the behest of my father, Duke William, I was betrothed to Victor.
Regrettably, before the ceremony could be held, my parents died of ailing health.
However, the wedding was not delayed due to the unexpected tragedy, and the ceremony proceeded as scheduled, with the Church as witness.
After all, to those people, what mattered the most was not the protagonists of the wedding, but the wedding ceremony itself.
–– That’s right, it’s not just me; even the king, Victor, is not held with significance in their eyes.
After all, it’s known to everyone in the capital that the royal family’s influence is eroding with each passing year. And since Victor succeeded to the throne, he remains in a coma all year round and is merely a puppet in the hands of the Church and nothing more.
The elusive fragrance of beeswax pervades the air in the room. I step on the soft woolen carpet and draw closer to the bedside. [1]
Lately, the capital has been shrouded in a haze of doubts and suspicion regarding the disappearance cases, and it was not the appropriate time for grandeur. Therefore, after the hasty wedding, I was ushered into the imperial palace.
And tonight marks the third night I’m spending alongside His Majesty, the King, who’s been in a state of perennial coma.
Victor is still in a deep slumber.
The light from a few candles illuminates one side of his profound features, while the lingering shadows dance across his face as if with fondness.
Throughout the generations, the kings have always been in robust health. But during Victor’s reign, his health has been continuously plagued with illness.
It seems even the gods cannot bear to be too cruel to him. His illness has only brought a touch of frailty but has not marred his looks.
I inhale softly and sit on the edge of the bed, propping my chin up as I gaze at Victor in his slumber.
MC: ...why are you still sleeping?
I’ve already started to grow accustomed to this— the bedchamber echoing only my own whispered monologues.
MC: I thought the Church was so wary of you because you had some secrets that were unknown to the outsiders.
MC: Now it seems your biggest secret is that you were born this good-looking.
I crack a joke to myself, which also lightens my mood considerably.
MC: When I think about it this way, being married to you is far better than being forced by the Church to marry one of those evil, rotten old men.
In addition, within the palace, at least, there are no hypocritical relatives and those ever-watchful eyes—
I have enough space to contemplate my plan for revenge.
MC: Revenge... revenge...
MC: But how can I go about taking revenge on the Church...
Clutching a corner of Victor’s blanket, I cover my face with it in anguish.
The Church conspired to murder my parents.
Because my father was a leader of the reformist faction, they extended their malicious hands targeting my family.
And this marriage, which was arranged by my parents, is now being wielded as a means to threaten my life.
As I ponder on this, the resentment in my heart swells. I heave a sigh, deciding to change my mood and say something interesting.
I sporadically recount some happy and entertaining anecdotes from the past, treating Victor as a well-behaved “sleeping beauty doll.”
MC: ...in autumn, you know, there wasn’t much to do. Winter, in comparison, was way more fun.
MC: When I was young, what I loved doing the most was building little snowmen in the courtyard of the duke’s mansion after it snowed. Look, I could make them this big—
Of course, Victor can’t see any of this, and there’s no hope for a response either. After mustering the spirit to prattle on for a while, all I am left with is endless emptiness.
I tug at the corners of my lips, forcing a smile, and as if driven by some strange impulse, I reach out and poke Victor’s face, wishing to get him to have the same expression as me.
MC: Sigh, it’s no fun. I won’t say anything more.
??(Victor): Why won’t you say anything more?
An icy voice suddenly sounds in my ears, carrying with it the raspiness of just being awakened.
I turn my head and nearly let out a scream.
MC: Y-Your Majesty... when did you...! [2]
I’m not sure when, but Victor has regained consciousness at some point. Leaning on a soft pillow, he rubs his temple with one hand.
Victor: I’m conscious, not revived back to life.
MC: ... I’ll sincerely obey Your Majesty’s command!
In a low voice, I respectfully offer him a curtsy. Victor seems to find my behavior amusing, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
Victor: The term of address was “you” even just a moment ago. A certain someone changed her tune rather quickly. [3]
MC: I’m not “a certain someone,” I am...
Victor: I know, Duke William’s only daughter.
MC: [surprised] Eh...?
Victor: At the age of seven, you received a scolding for building a snowman with the servants. When you were nine, you had a quarrel with a parrot and suffered a crushing defeat––
MC: Wait a minute, you... you heard all of that?
Victor: You’re too noisy. It’d be hard not to hear, [breaks into a coughing fit] cough, cough...
His words are cut off by a cough. I hastily pour a cup of water and offer it to him under his scrutinizing gaze, keeping silent.
I can’t help but break into a cold sweat.
Could it be that... all the past events I casually mentioned, all those self-deprecating remarks, and even... did he really listen to everything?
But, two days ago, when I plucked up the courage to poke his face, he didn’t react at all... So, when did he actually become conscious?
A vague, looming sense of oppression involuntarily makes me shrink my neck, and I tentatively open my mouth.
MC: ...you know about everything regarding me?
He tilts his jaw slightly upwards, studying my features. His eyes are submerged in the shadows cast by the candlelight, reminiscent of a predator in the dark night.
A good while passes before he eventually accepts the cup, speaking in a tone that is neither amiable nor impassive.
Victor: I do.
I nod and, after a rapid mental calculation, make up my mind. I take a step forward, wearing a small smile on my face as I speak.
MC: Including the fact that I was sent as a spy by the Church?
Victor: [seemingly chokes on water] …
Victor: Are you aware of what you’re saying?
MC: Yes, I’m aware.
I wish to work together with the king to bring down the Church.
And when working with a person like Victor, being transparent and honest is the first principle.
I crouch down at the edge of the bed, looking up at Victor from below.
MC: Your Majesty, I don’t want to hide anything from you.
MC: Prior to our nuptials, my parents were brutally attacked by the Church due to their advocacy for the reformation of the Church.
MC: The Church, to exploit my worth, spared my life and assigned me to spy on you.
Victor arches an eyebrow, clearly still assessing the credibility of my words.
Victor: Continue.
I press my lips together and lower my head, trying to convey my utmost sincerity.
MC: ... I’m unsure of to what extent you know about me, but I’ve never once considered surrendering to the enemies who murdered my parents.
MC: Now, in terms of both sentiment and reason, we are a family, and I cannot betray my husband.
MC: So... Your Majesty, will you take me under your wings?
I blink my eyes at him with a pitiful look, not knowing whether Victor would buy into it.
Victor: …
As if in need of a moment to compose himself, Victor seems to momentarily avert his eyes before he turns them back to me again.
Victor: Family... you seem to have accepted your new identity quite readily.
MC: Besides you, what else do I have to rely on?
MC: On the contrary, even after hearing my confession, if you’re unwilling to help me, I don’t have anything to lose.
I flutter my eyes at Victor.
MC: Your Majesty, I’ve already got nothing left to lose.
Victor holds a straight gaze on me. In his eyes, while there is finally a hint of recognition, it’s more as if he is peering into the past through me.
Victor: ...I will help you.
His well-defined hand sweeps my loose hair strands back for me. But before I can breathe a sigh of relief, the next second, my chin is cupped and pivoted to face him.
Victor: The prerequisite is that you can offer sufficient value to me.
His grip is surprisingly strong for someone who has just regained consciousness. As our eyes interlock, his penetrating gaze intently scrutinizes my innermost thoughts.
Victor: In your eyes, your husband, whom you’d never met before, is nothing more than a puppet who remains in coma year-round, isn’t that right?
Victor unfolds his hand to me, revealing a gem as vividly red as the human heart in his pallid palm, and then he encloses his hand—
In the blink of an eye, the signs of illness are shed off his face, and a rosy hue colors his cheeks, and he seems to be bathed in a divine light.
MC: This is... do you know witchcraft?!
Victor places the gem back in its case, then casts a brief look in my direction, apparently turning a deaf ear to what I’ve said.
Victor: This doesn’t concern you.
He slowly curls his lips, and his pupils, akin to the deep sea in the darkness, are as profound and enigmatic.
Victor: There’s a set of clothing on the bedside table. If you want to prove that you’re not just a noble canary—
Victor: Tomorrow morning, change into it and accompany me out of the palace.
──────────
[Notes]:
[1] Beeswax is often considered a symbol of “eternal love” in Eastern cultures.
[2+3] During her monologues in the 1st quarter of the date, MC was addressing Victor by “你” (informal ver. of ‘you’) pronoun. But the moment he butts in, i.e., gains consciousness, MC immediately switches to “您” (courteous/ respectful ver. of ‘you’) and the respectful address “Your Majesty,” which he teases her about here, haha.
Point to be noted: MC doesn’t switch back to the informal terms of addresses until the 3rd chapter of the date, when they’re already in love and inseparable for the time being. ༎ຶ‿༎ຶ
—
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
—
【Chapter 2】
While I’m still struggling with myself, Victor has already closed his eyes again.
Victor: You can sleep anywhere you want; just don’t make any noise.
MC: ...Yes, Your Majesty!
The idea of having this mysterious and aloof king sleeping next to my pillow feels more chilling to me than freezing in the cold itself.
I don’t hesitate at all. I swiftly grab a pillow from the bed and get prepared to spend the night on the sofa.
But it turns out I actually overestimated my ability to withstand the cold. Before the clock hands have even moved a few notches, I quietly tiptoe back to the bed, hugging the pillow.
MC: [to herself] It’s just that the weather is too cold. I just want to feel a bit nice and warm—
With a huff, I murmur in a soft voice and gently lift the coverlet to slip inside.
Once I’ve got my body settled comfortably, I cautiously look towards the person on the pillow next to me.
Victor isn’t awakened by my movements. Even in the darkness of the night, his skin is luminously white, his features handsome— he is reminiscent of a sculpture crafted from snow.
Considering this person’s track record of feigning sleep, I simply watch him quietly without making any more rash moves.
As I continue watching like this, my mind inexplicably begins to wander.
Although just moments ago, I kept addressing him as “my husband” repeatedly, when I look at Victor’s cold and handsome demeanor, I always find it difficult to connect him with that identity.
In my impression, the image of a husband and wife is like that of my parents. So, in the future, will Victor and I also be joined at the hip and inseparable like that?
Thinking about that reserved and unsmiling face, I can’t help but get chills.
In his eyes, I seem to be nothing more than a “useful person.” But what value can I provide for him?
The more I ponder, the more my head throbs, and it’s not until the horizon starts to turn slightly pale that I eventually drift into sleep.
──────────
With the break of dawn, I promptly get out of bed and change my attire. Victor has woken up as well.
Seemingly noticing the dark circles under my eyes, he arches an eyebrow, lifts his hand, and tosses a cloak over to me.
Victor: It seems like while your courage is not at all small, your confidence sure is lacking.
MC: I just don’t wish to unnecessarily show off in front of you.
I fasten the cloak tightly and purposely straighten my neck.
MC: Your Majesty, please lead the way.
We exit the palace through a small gate, cross through the commoner’s district, and Victor leads me straight into a small house.
──────────
Going from the small house into the cellar, and after navigating through a labyrinth of winding pathways, the cramped field of view suddenly opens up to a wide panorama.
Everyone: Your Majesties.
I never anticipated that the entire hall would actually be filled with guards, all standing in a perfectly ordered formation.
— To pull together an assembly of so many armed personnel, Victor must have spent a substantial amount of time, hasn’t he?
I’m hardly able to restrain my inner shock as I think back to the frequent news in recent years of nobles associated with the close-knit sects being removed from power or inexplicably meeting tragic ends. Now, it seems...
Every single person, myself included, severely underestimated this “dying” king standing before me.
At this moment, Victor picks something up from the long table, and it’s only now do I notice that there are all kinds of torture equipment laid out on the table.
The appearance of these torture instruments is menacing, and at their tips, dried blood remnants are still visible.
Practically, the moment I get a good look at them, the reeking of blood and rust assaults my nostrils. I subconsciously cover my nose and mouth, tightly gripping the cuff of my sleeve.
Subordinate: Reporting to Your Majesty, these are the “refining” equipment we found at the scene.
Subordinate: But those people are as cautious as rats at dusk; we’ve only found these pieces of material evidence so far. The remains of the blood sacrifice are still being sought.
Victor nods calmly, and once the arrangements are made, the guards depart in an orderly manner through various secret passageways.
Victor and I are the only ones remaining in the large hall. I make a conscious effort to restrain myself from looking at those torture instruments, regulating the rhythm of my breathing.
MC: Your Majesty, did you bring me here to witness something so horrifying to disclose some kind of truth to me?
Victor: Face has turned pale, but still got some courage.
A smile tinged with what appears to be praise appears on his face, as he takes out from his bosom the gem that resembles a human heart from last night.
The crimson light radiating from the gem spreads across his cheeks, eerie yet bewitching.
Victor: The purpose of all these blood sacrifices is to provide energy for this “Blood King Crystal.”
My eyes widen in incredulity as I stare at the pulsating vivid red in his hand, sensing a faint inkling of what it might signify.
MC: When you hold this Blood King Crystal, your complexion appear rosier, and you don’t cough as much...
MC: Could it be that the Church officials want to extract energy from commoners to enhance their physical strength?
Victor: Not the Church; it’s the Royal Family.
Victor doesn’t shy away from nodding his head. He stares fixedly at the red gem that provides him with strength, but in his eyes, there is only icy coldness.
Victor: The vitality and longevity of successive kings across the dynasties were all due to their possession of the “Blood King Crystals” that were assembled from the lives of countless ordinary people.
Victor: The Church refines it, and the Royal Family uses it, thus resulting in the Royal Family being controlled by the Church from then on.
Victor: And anyone who uncovers this secret will die.
My thoughts go back to my parents, as well as the reformist cabinet ministers— could it be that they all had...?
My heart immediately falls into a valley.
I close my eyes for a moment, then fix my gaze firmly on the unwavering king before me, a king who has endured extreme hardships and made sacrifices to stand where he is now. [4]
MC: Your Majesty, currently, there is a significant following of the Church among the populace. We must find the evidence of the blood sacrifices and bring it to light for everyone to see.
MC: I will carry on my parents’ legacy and work alongside you to find evidence of the Church’s blood sacrifices.
In those forever serene eyes of Victor’s, I see the glint of a smile.
Victor: [assuredly with obvious happiness] It appears you’ve perfectly inherited the chivalry and wisdom of Duke William.
MC: Well... it’s not entirely that. Whether in public or private matters, it’s only right that I stand by your side.
I wink at him, half-jokingly breaking the somewhat somber atmosphere.
MC: After all, I’m not only the daughter of Duke William. I am your wife and, more importantly, the queen of this country.
Victor: Is that right? It doesn’t seem to me that a certain someone possesses the temperament of a queen.
MC: Regarding that... I will work hard, so you can’t keep teasing me all the time.
Victor laughs in spite of himself and reaches out his hand, gesturing for me to take his arm.
Victor: [laughs helplessly] Very well. My Queen, we should return now.
──────────
After coming out of the subterranean passageway, we follow the same path back. We were in a hurry when we came here. It’s only now do I take notice of the surroundings.
In the nearby roadside, peddlers are selling fresh produce, while in the distant square, a group of less fortunate are circled around a fire, warming themselves and singing songs.
The streets in the commoner’s district are intersected, narrow, poverty-stricken yet bustling with life, in stark contrast to the overwhelming dead silence of the royal palace.
I hardly ever left the mansion, so I find myself unable to resist taking in the surroundings repeatedly.
Victor: Does the Duke’s daughter find these things interesting?
MC: ...no, no, I’m just looking around in passing, that’s all!
Victor’s hand offhandedly adjusts a corner of my cloak. He takes a long stride, veering from the route back to the palace and heading in a different direction.
Victor: That path is too narrow. Let’s stroll this way and get some fresh air.
We slowly stroll along, taking in the surroundings as we walk. Not far ahead, there is a dilapidated small tavern. Victor gestures for me to take a look.
Victor: I just suddenly recalled that you mentioned being curious when you were little and licking the snow with a fork.
Victor: During winter, the iron cups in the tavern also have an element of sweetness. You should try it some other time.
My scattered thoughts, fluttering around like wild and untamed grass, suddenly drop to the ground, and I can’t help but choke.
MC: ...Your Majesty, are you teasing me?
There is a slight curve at the tip of Victor’s brow as he gently curls the corners of his lips into a smile.
Victor: [laughs softly] Perhaps I am, or perhaps, it is a sincere recommendation.
MC: Could it be that you’ve drawn that conclusion after experiencing it firsthand?
Victor: You could say that.
Seeing him take the bait, a massive smile spreads across my face.
MC: So, speaking of, does that mean that you’ve also stuck your tongue to an iron cup in the past?
Victor seems to choke on his words for a moment. He shoots me a wordless look and walks forward, paying no mind to me.
MC: [teasingly continues] So, did that really happen? Did it happen or not...
We’ve almost circled the area surrounding the palace. Victor is tall and has long legs, but from the beginning, he has maintained a matching pace with me, making it so that I can always touch his shoulder by simply turning sideways.
The weather is very cold today; my hands and feet are freezing, yet I deeply breathe in the bitingly chilly but liberating air.
Even though I cannot purchase any dubious items to bring back to the palace, and even though I know the end of this path leads to the imperial palace that holds me captive—
But perhaps because I have someone walking alongside me, I feel surprisingly at ease.
In my sight, obscured by the chilling breeze, I see Victor squatting down and petting a skinny kitten at the corner of the alley.
The cat stretches its body and lays down lazily under Victor’s hand, meowing. Victor smiles, and both of them then look at me together.
Victor: [extremely softly] The winters in the future won’t be as chilling anymore.
──────────
[Notes]:
[4] The idiom used here is “越王勾践,” which came to life from the true story of King Goujian. I’d encourage you guys to just even google and see the small wiki on him if you can. This idiom in and of itself is the essence of the date in terms of Victor’s perseverance, and how he imposes suffering on himself for the constant reminder of what it is he’s fighting for by refusing to use the “Blood King Crystal.”
—
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
—
【Chapter 3】
Victor soon announces the news of him regaining consciousness to the masses, sending waves of shock to everyone across the country.
Amidst the reigning turmoil among the Church and the nobles, he proposes visiting the prominent noble households.
In my capacity as the queen, I rightfully visit every noble residence with him, where we find numerous correspondences implicating the collusion between the nobles and the Church.
The nobles kept the letters for the purpose of blackmailing the Church, both sides engaging in mutual exploitation, but they never once considered that there could be one day when they’d have to face the consequences.
Using the letters as a starting point, a series of pivotal evidence regarding the Church’s blood sacrifice is unearthed through Victor’s thunderous methods.
I, on the other hand, use my identity as an orphan of the reformers to help him win over the newly elevated nobles. More and more people begin to rally to our side...
When a former subordinate of my father hands me a letter, as if in tacit agreement, both Victor and I simultaneously realize that the final piece of the puzzle has fallen into place.
It’s about time for the verdict to be pronounced.
──────────
Tomorrow, Victor will convene a National Convention to expose the crimes of the Church to the masses.
I can’t fall asleep, so I rise from the bed and pace around the bed chamber in my nightgown.
Victor: [laughs helplessly] If memory serves me right, the person set to address tomorrow is not the queen; it’s the king.
He is lying in bed with drowsy eyes. Turning towards me, he speaks in a low, raspy voice, infused with a teasing tone.
MC: ...I didn’t realize I’d wake you up despite the carpet being so thick. I guess I’ll just go outside and sleep elsewhere.
As I drape on my outer garment and am about to head outside the chamber, my wrist is suddenly gripped from behind, pulling me back onto the bed.
Victor: [in an overwhelmingly sensual tone] You’re the queen. Where do you plan on sleeping when you look like this?
Tangled up in my thoughts, I have tousled my hair, causing it to become disheveled. Victor sighs, who then picks up a comb and sits behind me.
Victor: [switches to an overwhelmingly tender tone] Dummy. What is there to be nervous about?
The moderate pressure on my hair pacifies my restless heart. I rub my ears, which have heated up, trying to shift the topic of conversation to conceal my shyness.
MC: In the past, when my father would go to visit the king, my mother would become anxious like this and often wouldn’t even be able to eat anything.
Victor: So, what would happen next? I’m afraid the duke probably wouldn’t let his duchess remain in a constant state of worry.
MC: Mm-hmm. Whenever this kind of situation arose, my father would always hold my mother’s hand...
As I speak, I immediately begin to regret it a little. It feels like I’m sending a rather awkward hint.
Without waiting for me to dwell on more embarrassing thoughts, Victor’s hand has already enveloped mine, and the warmth from his palm flows to my icy fingertips.
His temperature is reminiscent of dandelions in a garden, floating gently, landing on my face and neck.
We are the puppet king and queen, husband and wife in name only. Even though we reside together in the same bedchamber, we’ve never been this intimate.
I feel a sensation as if a feather quill is caressing my throat, making it impossible for me to conceal the true feelings harbored in my heart.
Reflexively, I tighten my grip on Victor’s hand and turn to face him.
MC: Victor, to be honest, even though I never mentioned it before, I used to think you were quite unfeeling.
Victor: There was no need to say it; it was written all over your face.
Victor: Also, not addressing me as “Your Majesty” anymore?
MC: In any case, you are not going to hold it against me now, will you?
MC: During this period of time that I’ve spent with you, running here and there together, I’ve come to realize in every passing moment that I hardly knew anything about you before.
MC: For instance, in the case of those Church henchmen, according to the old laws, their families should have been exterminated, but you chose to exercise your discretion and grant amnesty to those who were unaware.
MC: And regarding the commoners who have fallen victim to the blood sacrifice, you’ve been supporting their families with long-term financial aid.
MC: You always project an image of keeping people at a thousand-mile distance, but in reality, there is also a tender side to you.
A flicker of astonishment crosses Victor’s eyes, but he simply tightens his grip on my hand.
Victor: [with a very evident hesitation in his tone] It sounds like... getting to know me is something that brings you joy?
MC: Yes, it does. I wish to know you even better— the past you, the present you, and the future you.
I gaze deeply into his eyes.
MC: But you’re so encumbered by everything. I can only utilize the little time you set aside for me each day to learn about you amidst the calls of the people.
Victor: ...MC.
Victor’s eyes tighten, and a heartfelt and regretful emotion swirls within them.
MC: I don’t wish to rob you of your time because of my selfish desires.
MC: So, after the National Convention concludes, and when you’re no longer so busy...
I draw in a breath, low and slow. And like that, just like the first time I met him, I lay bare all my yearnings and affections before him.
MC: Reserve some time for me, will you? Not in your role as the king, but as my husband. Share your stories with me.
MC: Will you, Victor?
All my thoughts translate into clumsy words, pouring out like the way winter grass eagerly awaits spring rain, confessing everything I have in me.
Victor continues gazing at me like this, until that gaze of his becomes infused with almost sorrow and a reluctance to part.
Before I can decipher those cryptic code words, he has already cast his eyes downward, veiling the emotions within.
Is this a silent rejection? I exert myself to force a smile, intending to crack a joke to ease the situation, but then he speaks first.
Victor: [if a person’s voice alone could shatter one’s heart, I swear this would be it] There’s no need to wait till later. Let’s do it now.
In astonishment and jubilation, I look up, locking eyes with his sincere gaze.
On the night before the pivotal moment in destiny, I finally witness Victor’s wordless confession.
──────────
The following day, the National Convention proceeds as scheduled.
Attired in royal robes, Victor stands at the forefront. Below the platform, countless eyes, some treacherous and others devout, are all converged on him.
Victor: In my capacity as the king, I stand here only to declare one thing.
Victor: The mysterious disappearances in the capital over the years have all been caused by the Church.
The earth-shattering statement stirs up a commotion among the people, and the followers of the Church appear visibly unsettled.
Victor: The Church extracts energy for the “Blood King Crystal” through the massacre of civilians in blood sacrifice rituals.
Victor: As for the particulars, I will leave it to the Knight Commander to elucidate.
The attendants toss numerous sheets of paper into the crowd off the platform, each containing records of clear and unmistakable evidence.
In a matter of moments, the crowd transitions from initial silence to restlessness, ultimately erupting into an agitated uproar.
It turns out that the matter of the true culprit behind the disappearance cases has been an enduring emotional anchor for the people, completely overturning everyone’s cognition.
Some hurling curses, some wailing, and some even charging to express their scorn at the Church...
Amidst the chaos, only Victor’s voice, his calm and powerful words, continues forward with a steady resolve.
Crowd: Overthrow the Pope, give us back our people! Overthrow the Pope, give us back our people!
As the chants and shouts cease and amid the furious uproar of the crowd, the Pope, who is ringed, calmly casts a glance in Victor’s direction.
The Pope: Silence. Dear Compatriots.
The elderly Pope walks slowly to the center of the platform, an inscrutable and chilling smile playing on the layers of wrinkles on his face.
The Pope: His Majesty speaks the truth. The Church does indeed extract energy for the “Blood King Crystal,” and the blood sacrifice of civilians has truly occurred.
The Pope: However, all these casualties and deaths stemmed from the demands of the royal family!
The Pope: Throughout history, every king has relied on the “Blood King Crystal” to survive, and even our righteous and dignified king, His Majesty, is using it at this very moment!
The Pope: The very purpose of the “Blood King Crystal’s” existence is to secure the longevity of the king. Without a king, who will lead the country? How can the kingdom have a future?
The Pope raises the scepter high, directing it towards Victor.
The Pope: Your Majesty, the Church has been faithful and devoted to the Crown for all these years. As you pronounce judgment on the Church’s sins today, do you not feel a sense of guilt?
The wrath of the masses below the platform has no outlet after his manipulative and distorted speech, and their eyes shift to Victor.
Silent inquiries and judgments flood the eyes of the crowd, prepared to tear everything to shreds at any second.
The noble king, however, has maintained his impassive demeanor from the beginning. He lapses into a moment of silence, gazing into my eyes.
Amid the scrutiny of the spectators below, I lock my eyes with him, and in that gaze, I see the very same expression of unwillingness to part that I wasn’t able to discern last night.
But at this moment, I seem to understand its meaning.
Holding back the bitterness in my eyes, I take a step forward and speak in a loud voice.
MC: What the Pope said is true. The kings of the previous dynasties colluded with the Church for their personal gains, resulting in the slaughtering of civilians.
MC: However, the Blood King Crystal has never been a precious treasure, but rather a curse.
MC: As each king became more reliant on it, the health of the royal descendants suffered increasing repercussions, which led to an even deeper dependence on the Church.
MC: His Majesty has been working tirelessly to put an end to these nefarious activities, solely for the sake of the future of this country.
MC: As for the Blood King Crystal...
I close my eyes, my eloquent speech coming to an abrupt halt. This elicits puzzled murmurs from the crowd off the platform.
At this time, Victor walks to the forefront of the stage.
He retrieves the vivid red gem from his bosom, and the blinding luster falls on his chest, projecting an image as if blood were coursing through.
Victor: Behold, the Blood King Crystal.
Before anyone can comprehend, Victor swiftly exerts a slight force with his fingertips, and the Blood King Crystal instantly disintegrates into fine fragments in his hand.
Pope: You...!!
Countless crimson red powder, reminiscent of blood, streams out from between his fingers, and his complexion has already turned a shade of pallor.
The elixir of immortality, amassed from the sacrifice of countless human lives across generations of kings, the venomous sac upon which the Church depends for survival, has been completely eradicated before the eyes of everyone.
Victor: Those deserving of being brought to reckoning, not a single person will be spared.
Victor: That includes the Church, as well as the Royal family.
He unfurls the hand that holds the Blood King Crystal. His palm now only holds a thin layer of gemstone powder, and he allows it to be carried away by the northern breeze.
Victor: Henceforth, dust will return to the earth, and blood will be bestowed upon the people.
Victor: I shall personally redeem the filth that has accumulated for far too long.
—
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
—
【Chapter 4】
In the wake of the National Convention, Victor instigates a series of reform policies to root out corruption, setting off a massive surge across the country.
He works tirelessly day and night, paying no heed to my attempts to dissuade him. There is an urgency in him that I don’t want to understand, a rush that drives him to get everything in order.
Throughout this time, I’ve been seeking out renowned physicians from everywhere, but all I’ve received are negative answers filled with a mix of dread and despair.
Until one day, he slips back into a coma again, and even the duration of his coma seems to be stretching longer and longer as the days elapse.
And all I can do, or more accurately, want to do, is simply to remain by his side.
With his eyelashes hanging low, a gentle shadow falls upon that beautiful yet pallid face, and it seems even his breathing has become very light.
As I gaze at Victor’s side profile in deep slumber, I can no longer find the same relaxed and carefree state of mind I had when I first stepped into the royal bedchamber.
He is no longer someone who could have confined me, the husband I had never met before, but rather my beloved with whom I have been through thick and thin together.
My only wish is for him to open his eyes and look at me, share some dry jokes, and then walk with me through the streets and alleys again and observe how people are living nowadays...
Victor’s life began wither away the instant the Blood King Crystal was shattered. All he can do now is expend every ounce of the remaining warmth.
He knew the consequences better than anyone else, yet he still orchestrated his own ending with his own two hands.
I remain by the bedside, tightly holding onto his hand. I can’t tell whether I’m trying to comfort him or myself.
MC: [sobbing] Victor...
Tears well up and stream down my eyes. A hand reaches up to caress my cheek, gently wiping away those tears.
Victor: Why are you crying?
Victor has woken up at some point without my notice and is now frowning as he looks at me.
Quickly, I wipe away the tears in a haphazard manner, the corners of my eyes stinging from the abrasion of my forceful fingertips.
MC: I’m alright. Are you hungry? What would you like to eat?
Victor doesn’t answer. Instead, his gaze passes over my shoulder and settles on the view outside the window.
Victor: It’s snowing.
It’s only now do I take notice that the imperial palace courtyard has already been blanketed in snow, transforming into an expanse of pristine white.
Victor: Weren’t you most fond of building snowmen when you were a child? Why not give it a try now?
MC: But your health...
Victor: [in an even tender and heart-wrenchingly weaker tone] It’s just building a snowman.
I press my lips together. The truth is, I have long grown to despise winter, and I don’t like building snowmen anymore.
After the death of my parents, the attendants who had been my companions from childhood to adulthood were all substituted with the informants from the Church, and the duke’s mansion became eerily cold and desolate.
The winter season I once loved became increasingly colder as time went on, and I no longer had the desire to go out. Warmer seasons began to become more likable to me.
But none of these are worth mentioning to Victor. Because this winter— it is marked by the moment I met him.
I nod.
MC: Of course.
MC: In that case, I must show you the snowmen-building skills I’ve honed since childhood!
I force a smile and step outside with Victor after donning our outer garments. He tucks my hand into his cloak.
Victor: A certain someone was shivering in the cold during the last outing, and she still forgot to bring her gloves this time.
MC: I did it intentionally. Otherwise, how could I get Your Majesty to help warm my hands?
With this said, I slip my chin into my cloak, and the smile at the corner of my mouth instantly fades away.
Victor’s hand is much colder than mine. Taking a deep breath, I grip his hand even tighter, and together, we step into this pure white world.
──────────
The chilly breeze howls as Victor and I tread through the snow, neither of us uttering a word. [5]
Reminiscent of a wanderer losing its way, the mist hangs over the frigid ground and eventually dissipates into the pale grayish expanse above.
Victor suddenly loosens his hold on my hand.
Victor: Didn’t you want to showcase your skills to me? Why aren’t you going yet?
I cast a brief glance at the mounds of snow under the trees, nod in silence, and reluctantly let go of his hand despite my heart breaking. [6]
MC: Well, Your Majesty, please wait for just a short while.
I tighten Victor’s cloak for him, then dash to the snowdrifts and begin building a snowman.
My hands move at a blazing pace. There is only a single thought circling in my mind right now, and that is to swiftly end this time-wasting game and return to his side as fast as possible.
To add to my woes, the newly fallen snow proves challenging to shape, much like bleached wool. Despite my vigorous efforts to press the snow together time and again, the snowballs continue to fall apart, each and every time.
A mix of vexation and restlessness churns in my heart. I have nearly exhausted all the strength left in my body to mold the snowballs, and both my hands are now aching from the cold.
Victor: [with endless helplessness] Dummy, no one is competing with you for first place. There’s no need to be in such a rush.
Subconsciously, I pause in my movements, turn my head, and find him gazing at me with a serene expression.
The urgency and anxiety in my heart seem to find equilibrium, and my hands unconsciously settle into a steadier motion.
Regrettably, the snowman I end up crafting doesn’t even qualify to be described as “adorable.” Even so, Victor earnestly lowers his head, observing it with the bearing of a connoisseur appreciating a gem.
Victor: To create this shape without it falling apart is indeed a testament to skill.
His teasing remark elicits a chuckle from me. I pick up a twig and walk over to him.
MC: There’s still one last step, but it requires Your Majesty and me to complete it together.
Placing the twig in his hand, I then hold onto his hand, and together, we draw eyes and a mouth on the snowman’s face.
Victor chuckles softly, and conversely, he grasps my hand, guiding it to make strokes.
Victor: You’re holding so tightly; its eyes are all crooked now.
Looking at the snowman with its enlarged eyes due to our modifications, I’m just about to crack a few jokes when I notice a touch of weariness on Victor’s face.
MC: We’ve almost completed the snowman. Would you like to rest for a while?
Victor: I know a tavern. Come with me.
We’ve arrived at the alley where we met that kitten before. It has undergone a complete transformation, and the newly opened tavern is bustling with patrons.
It’s a snowy day, and the tavern is filled to capacity. I initially thought that there would be no seats available. However, the owner leads us straight into a room.
MC: Huh? Did you reserve the room with the owner in advance? But you weren’t...
Victor brushes away the snowflakes off my head, seeing through my puzzlement.
Victor: I arranged it in advance, yes.
Victor: Since I didn’t know when I would be awake, I told the owner beforehand that I would have this room reserved for as long as it snows.
The fire in the hearth produces a crackling sound. Victor’s facial features are enveloped in the cloud of heat, his eyes gentle.
Victor: I just thought that one day, I would take you out to see the snow.
We sit on the terrace, sipping the warm wine. Amidst the aroma of wine wafting in the air, he speaks in a soft tone.
Victor: I did stick my tongue to a cup in the past. It happened when I was five years old and had a taste of my father, the king’s red wine in secret. My mother, the queen, had gotten quite the shock.
MC: Eh? What are you talking about...
Victor: Dummy, aren’t you always clamoring about wanting to hear my stories?
He says it as if it were the most natural thing, as if this were merely an ordinary winter day, as if we were an ordinary married couple offhandedly conversing about our everyday life while enjoying a drink and keeping ourselves warm by the fire.
The north breeze makes my eyes sting, but I still force myself to smile as I look at him.
MC: So, it turns out that His Majesty was a dummy, too, when he was five years old. How about when you were six? What was it like?
Victor: When I was six...
In the back-and-forth questions and answers, more than twenty years of Victor’s life have become etched in my mind.
I dare not listen. I can’t help but feel as if once I’ve heard everything, he will leave me. And yet, I listen carefully to every single word.
I listen to the way he speaks each word— the way his teeth collide, the way his two lips meet, the way the nuances of his trailing notes alter between closing and releasing.
Victor: Next, it’s the day when I got married to a certain someone.
MC: ...there’s no need to tell the next part of the story. After all, the stories related to me have only begun.
Victor pauses, but doesn’t follow up my words with a playful remark.
MC: ...Victor?
Victor: What’s wrong?
I shake my head, and when I open my mouth again, the name that has been lingering on the edge of my lips and weighing on my heart spills out involuntarily.
MC: Victor.
Victor: Mm, I’m here.
He tacitly acquiesces to my almost naïvely foolish behavior, responding to my call of his name over and over again. It feels as though, if only I can keep confirming like this, the hole in my heart would be filled.
MC: ...Victor.
This time, he doesn’t speak. The silence forces me to stop.
MC: [sobbing] I just want to know... what can I do to make you stay... [7]
Victor sighs softly and beckons to me.
I lean over and nestle in his frigid arms.
As if he can no longer support the weight of his long, ink-black eyelashes, he casts his gaze downward. His nearly translucent skin appears as if it’s about to blend with the sunlight.
Victor reaches out and touches my cheek, his finger pads caressing the contours of my face with utmost gentleness, as if sketching my features.
His fingertips carry with them the chill of death, making me shiver involuntarily.
Slowly and stiffly, I weave my words together, but the sentences that come out of my mouth are still shakily out of tune.
MC: [teary-eyed x1] Victor, do you find it a little chilly? Maybe your cloak is too thin?
MC: [x2] The fire is obviously burning so strongly, and the mead is also very warm... [8]
MC: [x3] Look, there’s a kitten on the eaves over there. Isn’t it the one we met that day?
MC: [x4] It looks so lively today. Seems like its frame of mind is as cheerful as ours.
When I utter the last sentence, I hear his gentle sigh.
At the same time, the laughter of playful children chasing each other, the chatter of young people, and the sighs of emotions of the elderly can be heard amidst the wind and snow.
Victor: Hear that, the sounds outside.
The sunlight seeps through the terrace, haloing and enveloping the surroundings with a layer of warm and bright haze.
Bathed in that glow, my body’s consciousness returns little by little. I tightly clutch his hand, no longer shaking.
MC: [x5] I can hear it. It’s almost New Year, and the streets are bustling and serene.
Victor: The snowfall this year is promising. So, the harvest will be abundant next year.
MC: [x6] Yes, people will become more affluent and happier.
Victor: You will be a part of it all, too, and that’s really good.
I bury myself in his chest, silently listening to the rhythm of his heartbeat, one beat after another.
The heartbeat in my ears, following its rapid pace, begins to grow increasingly feeble. A realization dawns on me, and I force myself to lift my head and look at him.
He is akin to a wan rose, wilting before my desperate eyes that seek to make him stay, withering within my outstretched arms as I reach out to hold on.
From limbs to blood, to the light in his eyes— bit by bit, the luster fades.
My king entrusts the future of this country to me, and then he steps out of time, heading toward eternal peace.
I gently incline my body, kissing his peacefully closed eyes.
MC: ...good night.
This time, I don’t receive any response from him, but the snowstorm suddenly ceases.
The curtain of the evening has already descended, and the vermillion sun sinks below the horizon. The final ray of the splendid afterglow thaws the ice and snow of the land.
MC: Victor, I will take you to witness the tomorrow of this kingdom.
──────────
[Notes]:
[5] The exact phrase here actually was “冷风呜呜作响,” which literally means “the chilly breeze is producing a mournful sound”-- the “呜呜” used here is the onomatopoetic word for “sobbing/ wailing.” wanted to include this note as an example to gush about the brilliant atmospheric descriptions LZY writers use, e.g., the picture painted here echoes that even the nature is mourning at this slow, rather unfair, transition, mirroring the heroine’s and LZY’s pain of parting. ༎ຶ‿༎ຶ
[6] The expression used here is “依依不舍,” one of my favorite phrases and hated ones to translate LOL. You’d usually see this phrase being translated as “reluctant/unwilling,” but it doesn’t even come close to expressing the depth of its meaning. The phrase means “reluctance to part with sb you love/ being broken-hearted at having to leave,” with an underlying tone of “wanting to be with that person regardless,” -- and I tried to retain the OG meaning without being too wordy haha~
[7] Not sure how much of the sentiment I could make it come across in the translation—the term (留住) MC uses here literally means “ask sb to stay/ keep sb for the night/ ask them to wait.” the beauty of it lies in the fact that it expresses such a multitude of emotions— desperately wanting to keep sb in your life despite knowing it’s not up to either of you so you want to know if they can wait for you even though you know it’s not possible~ ༎ຶ‿༎ຶ
[8] Mead (蜂蜜酒), also known as honey wine, is a type of alcoholic beverage made by fermenting honey mixed with water and other fruits. You can google it to know about it in detail if you want LOL.
