#mlqc Helios | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

thatfanfictionchick · 1 year

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MLQC - About that night

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Helios x Reader x Shaw

Rating: Explicit NSFW

Warnings: Talk of infidelity; Alcohol consumption; Threesome; Vaginal fingering; Vaginal intercourse; Oral sex; Multiple orgasms;

Word count: 5146

Notes: For the user that pointed out the link was dead because the co-writer is deactivated! This was originally posted in 2020? 2021? Anyway, enjoy!

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New Year's Eve.

I had just broken up with my longtime boyfriend, and my two best friends promised me a night that would make me forget he ever existed. Reluctantly, I agreed to let them whisk me away to a party at a local hotel bar, complete with a suite rental so we didn't have to worry about driving home after consuming an obscene number of drinks. I had no idea what to expect, but I can tell you this: it sure as hell wasn’t what ended up happening to me that night. Allow me to elaborate, if you will...

“Ya know, he was a loser, anyway,” Willow slurred, leaning drunkenly against my shoulder after gulping down the rest of her drink. “You were too good for him. And you. Deserve. Better.” She punctuated each of those last three words with an index finger poked against my cheek, falling into giggles at her own ridiculous antics.

“I know, I know.” I studied what was left of my own drink, tracing my fingers absently around the rim. She’s right, I thought. But it doesn’t make it hurt any less.

Chad. Stupid, lying, cheating bastard that he was. He denied everything when I confronted him, thrusting his phone in his face to show him I had proof of his infidelity in text form.

“Who is Lauren, Chad? And why the hell is she calling you ‘babe’?”

“I can explain! Please, I-”

I threw his phone at him, shaking my head. “Don’t bother. Kiki already saw you together two days ago. This just confirms it.” My vision blurred with hot, angry tears, but I refused to let him see me cry. “Merry Christmas to me, yeah?”

It was the beginning of our end. Christmas Eve, and there I was, kicking my boyfriend out of our shared apartment while he begged me to let him stay.

“It’s Christmas, for God's sake! What kind of sadist are you, anyway? Where am I supposed to go?”

I was furious. I didn’t give a damn where he went, as long as it was away from me. My cheeks were blazing, the tears spilling freely now as I threw his belongings into a black trash bag. “Why don’t you go stay with Lauren? I’m sure she’ll be happy to take you in.” I paused, then added, more to myself than to Chad, “I’m sure she already has more than a few times, anyway.”

“Yeah? Well fuck him,” Willow spat, slouching over her empty glass.

Kiki nodded in agreement, looking like she was about to pass out, eyes blinking slowly, a tired, blissful smile plastered on her face. “Yeah….fuck ‘em.”

“Excuse me, ladies. Who are we fucking?” An attractive male voice cut through the din of music and conversation around us. He sounded young. He sounded hot. The three of us shared a look, then fell into giddy giggles. I turned around to answer and was met with a pair of eyes so intense, their golden hue cut so purely through the relative darkness of the venue. I couldn’t be sure, but his hair looked to be dyed a pale lavender color- whether on purpose or a remnant of a botched dye job, I didn’t know. And quite frankly, I didn’t care at that moment.

He took a drag from his cigarette and exhaled, his chuckle coming out in visible puffs of smoke as he studied the three of us, probably looking positively ridiculous after a few hours of drinking and dancing.

“Whoever he is, he’s a lucky man.” His eyes lingered on me, and for a moment I thought I recognized him. He reminded me of someone I had known in high school. I think it was those eyes…

Willow kicked me in the shin and looked up at him, her tone teasing, mischievous. “We were just talking about an ex boyfriend. Total douchebag. Old news.” She lifted her glass, the remaining slivers of ice and watered-down rum nearly sloshing out over the side. “To New Year’s Eve. To new beginnings!” She went to take a swig and realized there was nothing left worth drinking. “Hey, you should buy us another round, misterrrr…?”

“Shaw. The name’s Shaw.” He smirked, taking a step closer to us, his eyes never leaving my face. I felt myself growing even hotter, his intense stare causing me to feel a tad uncomfortable, but...incredibly turned on at the same time. “What’s in it for me if I do?”

Willow opened her mouth to answer but was cut off by Kiki, springing upright in her seat and slapping the bar with her hands. “Guysss that hot weekend band is here!”

“Weekend band?” I asked, briefly looking from Shaw to her and back. His smirk widened into an amused grin.

“They’ve played the bar near my place a few times. On the weekends. The singer is suuuuper hot.”

Can’t be any hotter than what’s right in front of us.

“Does the band have a name, Kiki?” I asked.

She looked at me, incredulous, her eyes swinging to where the band was almost set up, ready to play. “Um, does it really matter when that is center stage?’

I looked toward the commotion on the stage where the emcee was handing the mic off. He was a vision. Perfection. Distressed jeans, a black shirt that hung open halfway down his chest, sleeveless to showcase the tattoos that ran down one arm. The light reflecting off his white hair was blinding. A guitar hung across his back, the body shaped like a gun. The singer turned, eyes sweeping the crowd.

Course I’d been wrong before…

I turned back to Shaw, giving him a head to toe sweep of my gaze, trying to look as seductive as possible. I reached out and traced my finger down his abdomen, my breath catching at how firm and warm his muscles felt under my touch. “So, about the next round. What is it you want?”

He leaned over the back of my chair, so close I could feel his breath on my neck. “Wouldn’t you like to know?” I felt his teeth on the cusp of my ear; teasing, exhilarating. My inhibitions lowered dramatically by the alcohol, I turned my chair around to look him square in the eye; my hand locked around his wrist as his fingers grazed the inside of my thigh.

“You didn’t ask for permission to touch me.” He dipped his head, locks of his hair falling into his eyes as he chuckled. Kiki and Willow watched us without saying a word, holding back their squeals of delight.

“You touched me first. Besides, you were practically begging me to touch you.” I scoffed, my pulse pounding in my ears, heat pooling in my gut. He called my bluff, but I wanted to keep the banter alive. This was flirty.

Hot.

Fun.

Dangerous.

“You’re sexy. Your boyfriend is an idiot,” he said, leaning in close.

“He’s not my boyfriend anymore, Shaw. And you know what else is sexy?” I licked my lips and watched his mouth fall open. “Consent.”

He hummed, his lips so close to mine that I could feel the vibration, the pungent smell of tobacco and hard liquor on his breath. “Can I kiss you, then?” His question was met with my mouth crashing against his, hands rising to fist into the collar of his shirt, pulling him as close to me as I possibly could. It was reckless. It was wild. But I threw all caution to the wind, hearing my best friends screech beside me as I made out with this perfect stranger like it was my job.

He was first to break the kiss, pulling away, to suck in a breath. Just as he did, the lead guitarist of the band struck his first chord, letting it ring out over the crowd. People cheered and whistled, and stage lights cast a hazy glow all around. The singer stepped forward and grabbed the mic stand, leaning forward slightly to speak as he centered himself under the spotlight.

“How’s everybody doing tonight?” The crowd cheered again, and a woman somewhere behind us screamed, “WE LOVE YOU, HELIOS!” He must have heard her, because he smirked playfully and pointed in her direction. “Love you, too.” The drummer kicked them into gear; soon the whole place was pulsing with driving bass, drums, electric guitar, and the edgy, gritty, soulful rasp of Helios's voice. Kiki had dragged Willow into the crowd, and I spotted them easily, their bodies writhing to the music. I felt Shaw’s hand on my shoulder, hot and insistent with some unspoken desire, and I looked up at him, brow arched.

“Need something?” I asked.

“Yeah…” he began, leaning in to pin my bottom lip between his teeth, releasing it with a pop. “You. On me. Let’s dance.” Before I could protest, he was pulling me into the crowd, grinding his hips on mine to the beat. He had rhythm- I gave him that. He also oozed confidence and sex appeal, snaking an arm around my waist, letting his fingers trace circles on my backside as he bent to taste my neck, my jaw, and finally kiss me full on my lips again, hungry and wanting. I felt like he was searching for some deep, lost part of me that had been buried long ago. He kissed me like he had nothing to lose, and I kissed him back with the same fervor, my intense need growing with each flick of his tongue across mine. Maybe it was my messy breakup a week ago. Maybe it was some primal need to be devoured that he had awakened in me, but there with him, his body pressed urgently against mine amidst the other bodies around us, coherent thoughts clouded by lust and alcohol, I made up my mind that I was going to fuck him. It was beyond want at this point. It was an unequivocal need. I needed to forget...what’s his face? My ex-boyfriend’s name was just a fleeting thought when I felt the unmistakable push of Shaw’s bulge against my core, ready and eager to be driven inside me in some dark, secluded corner.

Or, right there on the dance floor. I was so turned on at that point, I didn’t care who saw it.

I rode his thigh, grinding myself against his jeans, the friction almost enough to make me come right then and there. I dug my nails into his triceps, pulling him against me. His forehead rested against mine for a moment before he turned to speak, lips fluttering against my ear, “You got a room here tonight?” I nodded, tucking my bottom lip under my teeth while I tried to read the expression on his face. “Well?”

“Well, what?” I asked, narrowing my eyes.

“You gonna invite me up, or what?” The nerve of this guy! I mean, I was every bit the drunk, loose woman that night. It was stupid, really. I was playing with fire and just asking to get burned, but I didn't care. I was hurt, horny, and looking for a fling, and the heavens had heard my cry and sent me Shaw.

I was a tigress, hunting her prey.

And I had him cornered, ready to pounce.

But I wasn't done teasing him just yet.

"That remains to be seen," I whispered against his ear, licking the cusp for good measure and secretly thrilling in the buck of his hips. I looked up and saw how close to the stage we had migrated, then locked eyes with Helios as he sang the chorus of the last song of the night. I hadn't realized how long Shaw and I had been dancing, but it must've been for the better part of an hour, off and on. Even in the poor lighting and haze of smoke, I could see his eyes: ocean blue, haughty, cold. He didn't smile when our eyes met, but he stared. Long and hard, like the cock I imagined he was packing in those ripped jeans. Jesus, get a grip, I told myself. Shaw seemed to sense my hesitation, because he suddenly grabbed me behind the knees and lifted me, hooking my legs around his waist. I squealed and locked my arms around his neck as he spun me away from Helios, who watched as Shaw nuzzled my breasts with his nose, playfully nipping at the exposed skin at the deep v-neck of my shirt.

"Focus, baby. I'm all yours." The way Helios watched us stirred my longing for him even more, and I was struck with an idea so filthy, so completely sinful that I was surprised I wasn't knocked dead right then and there and set into the pits of Hell.

I wanted both of them. Together. The three of us, engaged in carnal, lascivious, sleazy, lecherous, immoral activities that I had only ever read or fantasized about.

"I want him, too."

Shaw stared at me, incredulous. "What did you just say?"

"You heard me. I. Want. Him. Too." To further entice him, I flattened my tongue against his Adam's apple and licked the rough path to his chin, nipping at his bottom lip with a snarl and a low growl.

"Easy there, tiger. Let me see what I can do." He surprised me by taking strides toward Helios, who was talking with a couple of fans. Setting me down, he patted me on top of my head, told me to 'stay there like a good girl', and promptly hoisted himself onto the stage where he began unplugging equipment and winding up cords. He's one of their tech guys, I realized then. It hadn't dawned on me until then that he was alone when he approached Kiki, Willow, and I. No friends, no girlfriend or even a date with him. Just Shaw and his brazen self, swaggering up to us like he knew what he wanted, and he was going to get it.

As he was expertly looping one of the amplifier cords over his shoulder, he sidled up behind Helios and said something, looking at me the entire time. Helios turned and looked at me, something akin to a smile playing at the corners of his mouth, though his eyes remained cold. They shared a laugh then, with Helios watching my face for a reaction. I refused to give him much, but my heart was racing along at such a frantic pace I could barely breathe. And when he stepped off the stage and met me face to face, my soul left my body and I was promptly sent into overdrive. My pussy was throbbing so hard that it hurt.

"Shaw tells me you're looking for a little fun." He reached out, brushing damp hair away from my face before trailing rough fingertips down my jaw. The girls he’d been talking to stared daggers as he slowly circled, humming appraisal as he went. He stopped behind me, hands around my waist sliding down to squeeze my ass through my jeans before stepping up and asking quietly, “you sure you can handle both of us?”

I swallowed, the heat rolling off his body like standing under the summer sun. “Yeah, pretty sure I can take it.” Need. Want. Will. He circled back to facing me, a sinful grin on his face. He leaned down and I popped up on my toes, meeting his lips halfway. He was softer than Shaw, lips moving slowly against mine with agonizing tenderness. I was aching for more, and I was determined to get it. I bit his lip before sucking his tongue in my mouth, tilting my head in a silent request. He obliged, teeth and tongue leaving me a whimpering mess before you pulled away.

“Well then, if that’s how you want to play it.” Soft lighting reflected in his gaze like a burst of gold. And when his eyes fell to my heaving breasts-and lower, to where my core pulsed-I knew that I was in trouble.

Nope. There was no walking away from this one now.

〖✰〗

Clothes littered the floor from the door to the king size bed. Helios was the first to crawl onto the mattress, apparently not feeling any shame in sprawling himself out naked. He reached out and grabbed my hips, pulling me flush against his chest. His erection felt like a brand against my back. He reached around, kneading my breasts before running his hands down, ghosting over my thighs and grabbing under my knees, opening my legs to Shaw who watched intensely.

“I suppooose,” Helios’s voice was a sing-song tease in my ear as his fingers trailed up my inner thighs. “Since I’m the guest, I could let you go first.” He was looking at Shaw as he licked a line down my neck, calloused fingertips teasing my wet slit.

Shaw stood at the foot of the bed, stroking himself languidly, amber eyes watching every flick of those fingers across my skin. My head was spinning from the alcohol I had consumed, and I allowed myself to fall backward onto Helios’s broad, tattooed shoulder, opening my mouth as I moaned, taking in the vision before me. It was as much a show for him as it was for Helios, whose fingers worked themselves inside further at the sound of my cry.

“But I wouldn’t mind helping, if that’s okay.” Helios’s teeth skimmed my shoulder and he waited for an affirmative nod from Shaw.

“As long as we’re all in agreement, I’m down for whatever.” He took a step toward us and climbed onto the bed, that perpetual sneer now inches away from my own, hungry mouth. I pitched forward, eager for another taste of his lips, but he drew back with a click of his tongue.

What a goddamn tease.

“Easy now. We’ve got all night.”

Helios’s lips tickled my jaw and with a smirk I turned my head, kissing him instead. He wasted no time, tongue curling in my mouth the way his fingers curled to find my g-spot. I moaned and bucked my hips, brushing against Shaw’s jutting cock.

“Well, that’s just rude.”

“Play bitch games…” I whispered breathlessly. Helios chuckled.

“Win bitch prizes?” His wintry eyes met Shaw’s as he finished the sentiment.

“Now, now, there’s only enough room in here for one smart ass and that would be me.” Shaw reached out and pinched my stiff nipples, making me squirm. His touch softened, tickling and fondling my breasts before moving down to trace circular patterns on my belly. Helios seized my lips again, a slow expedition, barely affording me the chance to breathe.

Between the two of them I felt like a paper boat tossed in the ocean, pitching on the waves before starting to sink beneath the surface. I wondered idly if the noises Helios made was due to how my slick walls are starting to clamp down on his fingers. Shaw dipped his head, tongue lapping torturously at my nipples. “Gentlemen!” I finally gasped, breathless. “We may have all night, but if someone doesn’t fuck me now I’m going to lose it!”

Helios could barely contain his amusement. “You heard the lady.” He pushed his fingers deep, grinding his palm against my clit. Shaw crawled away, fumbled through the haphazard string of clothes for his jeans, produced a condom from his back pocket, and rolled it expertly down his intimidating length. In my drunken arousal, I hadn’t really looked closely at his cock until now; his girth was impressive, and sucked in a breath as Helios continued his ministrations, preparing me for the experience at hand.

“You ready for this, baby?” Shaw knelt in front of me, grabbing roughly at my hips and slotting his eager mouth against mine. Much to my chagrin, Helios withdrew his fingers, teeth and tongue tracing a path down the sensitive flesh of my back. His hands then traveled up my spine, vertebra by vertebra, as if he were memorizing the bumps and dips on the path to my neck. Then, gathering my hair at the nape of my neck, his other hand sliding around to rest at my throat, he squeezed- just enough to thrill and terrify me at the same time. He lifted my chin and sucked hard on my shoulder, meeting Shaw’s eyes with a subtle nod, as if to urge him on. Shaw lined himself up against my throbbing, aching sex. In a suddenly tender moment, he pushed my hair away from my face, cupping my cheek in his palm. "Be gentle with me. It's my first time," he cooed, the corner of his mouth lifting into that signature smirk.

“I refuse to believe any of this is a first for you~” my reply trailed off to a loud moan as he pushed his cock inside me, Helios’s fingers tightening ever so slightly around my neck. They’ve definitely done this before. I briefly considered asking them if they were keeping track of all the roadies they had fucked together, but Shaw’s thickness stretching me in all the right ways left me without a second to even think straight. God, he felt good.

Helios kept a tight grip on my hips as Shaw found his rhythm, coaxing me on in his breathy rasp. “That’s it, baby. You like it when I hold you up for him to fuck you?” I could only moan an affirmation, the room beginning to grow hazy as I felt my release coming quicker than I wanted. His arms slid upward, hands locking onto my breasts to pull me tighter against his chest. I leaned against his shoulder again and hooked an arm around the back of his neck, where I grabbed a fistful of his hair and yanked, drawing a low growl from him. “Easy, killer. You gotta be careful doing things like that, or I might not let Shaw finish." He threw a look at Shaw, who-of course-laughed, the sound leaving his throat in staggered pants. A delicious, ruddy glow spread over his cheeks, a sheen of sweat glistening on his tanned skin. I pressed my palm to his cheek and hooked my other arm around his neck, pushing him flush against my own sweat-slick chest. His tongue caught one of my overstimulated nipples and teased pebbled flesh; then he sucked it into his mouth, effectively sending me over the edge. My pussy clamped down around him and he slowed his pace, obviously enjoying the sensation. I was vaguely aware of his breath on my ear, of a bead of sweat rolling down between my breasts and mingling with that of Shaw's skin.

"Yeah, baby girl. Ride it out. God, you feel good, squeezing my cock. Unh…" Our ragged breathing mingled with the throaty grunts of Helios behind me.

"Fuck. You don't mess around, do you?" Helios marveled, sweeping my damp hair away to lick the column of my neck once more, sending shockwaves throughout my already spent body. I searched for the words to retort, but I had none. I hadn’t meant to come so fast. I wanted to ride the wave, to feel Shaw working inside me for longer than those first few minutes, but I had been so painfully aroused before we started that I just couldn’t take anymore. His release came soon after mine began, his cock pulsing against my walls while his hips bucked uncontrollably against mine. I went limp against Helios’s firm chest and whimpered, quaking with pleasure, having lost any and all control over the movements of my body.

Helios’s patience was strung thin. Watching, feeling me writhe against him as I came on Shaw’s cock was torture in its purest form. Shaw rolled to the side, taking me with him, and Helios slid to the floor. He picked his jeans up at the foot of the bed and pulled a string of three condoms out of the back pocket, tearing one off and tossing the others.

“Show off.” Shaw mumbled, grinning as he cradled my face in his hands and kissed me.

“Jealous.” Helios replied, tongue flashing between his lips in a childish display. “Now if the opener is finished he should make way for the main act.”

“Is it too late for me to apologize for him?” Shaw said with a laugh. I felt empty as he pulled away. Helios sauntered back, grabbing my ankles and chuckling when I squealed as he dragged me to the edge of the bed. He leaned over and kissed me, lapping a hungry line down my throat and between my breasts. I didn’t realize I was holding my breath the lower he went until his tongue passed over my clit and plunged into my overly sensitive pussy, making me exhale in a head-spinning groan. He braced my feet against his shoulders before grabbing my thighs, holding me in place as he pressed his mouth against me, pushing his tongue as deep as it could go. I reached down, twisting my fingers in soft white hair. My throat felt dry no matter how many times I swallowed, unaware of how loudly I was moaning. Letting my hands do the work of guiding him, Helios ripped the foil and rolled the condom down his throbbing shaft before reaching up and sliding two fingers inside me. My pussy clenched, his tongue swirling around my clit as he rubbed my g-spot. I didn’t think it was possible for me to come again so quickly, but I could feel my muscles tensing as the wave built low in my belly. Charles...Carl...what’s-his-name had never pulled this off.

“I...I’m gonna...gonna come-!” I wailed, bright spots flashing in my eyes, a small gush of fluid wetting the bed beneath me. I didn’t even notice Helios pop to his feet, dragging the back of his hand over his mouth as he lined himself up and filled me with one smooth thrust. My thighs snapped against his hips and my mouth fell open noiselessly.

“Ssshhit!” He hissed, grabbing my ankles and spreading my legs. I was still coming, my pussy fluttering around his cock. “You feel so good.” He fucked me deep and hard, using his grip on my legs to add leverage to every thrust. My vision swam, I couldn’t focus on anything but the feel of his cock driving into me over and over.

“You didn’t forget about me, did you?” Shaw’s voice was soft and I jerked as his hands slid under my shoulders, hoisting me up so he could hold me against his chest. His hands skated over my body, one hand pressing against my mound, the fingers of the other coming up to trace my lips. I numbly parted them, sucking on his fingers as they slipped over my tongue. Shaw’s hand danced up my leg, replacing Helios’s grip on my ankle so that Helios could reach down to grab my hip. Shaw’s lips pressed against my ear, tongue tracing the contours.

“And what if..ah...I did?” Each word I managed was a conscious effort; my throat was so dry and raw, and I licked my lips, desperate for moisture. Shaw sensed my need and rewarded me with another kiss, pushing his own tongue through my parched lips.

“Look. Watch him come. ‘Cause once he’s finished, I’ll need your help again.” He shifted himself so that I was propped against his chest again, my head trained downward to where Helios was pumping furiously in and out of me, Shaw’s fingers expertly strumming my clit, his cock pressed hard and hot against my back. I whimpered at his command, not sure just how much more pleasure my body could endure.

I was seeing stars at that point, tears pooling at the corners of my eyes. Every muscle in my body was limp and feeble, and I was thankful for Shaw’s support, as I don’t think I would have been able to hold myself up to meet Helios’s eager thrusts. And when I felt him twitching within, saw his cerulean eyes flash with a silent outcry of ultimate gratification, I came for a third time, my hips lifting high off the mattress and taking him in fully, completely. I think we all cried out together, sweat-slick bodies sliding together effortlessly, as if the three of us were one being. I had never felt more sexy, more desirable, more alive as I did in that moment. It was overwhelming in many ways, and when Helios pulled himself out, leaving me feeling barren and empty, I whined softly, curling myself against Shaw, the tears of euphoria I’d kept in check before now streaming freely.

Helios saw what was happening and sat beside Shaw and I, his fingertips tracing over my shoulders in a sensual, yet comforting way. They exchanged a look of concern, and Shaw covered my ear with his palm, whispering to Helios, “I think we broke her, man. Why’s she crying?”

“She’s spent, Shaw. Look at her. She is tapped the fuck out.” He hooked his fingers around a few damp locks of hair that were plastered against my cheek and pushed them away, then placed an achingly tender kiss on the newly exposed skin. I opened my eyes and found his gaze, my vision blurred but still able to discern his smile, edged with a hint of concern thanks to a furrowed brow. I tapped his chin with my fingertip playfully, my lips twitching into a grin.

“You two lied to me,” I said, fingernails raking the stubble on his cheek.

They exchanged a look of confusion, with Shaw bending close, turning his ear toward my mouth to better hear me. “What did you say?”

“You said it was your first time. But you’ve done this before. There’s no way in hell you haven’t practiced that on another...helpless...victim…” I felt myself succumbing to exhaustion quickly, now slumping into the supportive arms of Helios, my hands clasped together under my chin, head resting against his chest.

I felt the vibration of Helios’s chuckle against my ear. The bed dipped slightly as Shaw stood and stretched his arms above his head with a loud groan, then staggered off to the bathroom. I soon heard the sound of rushing water, presumably from the shower. That soothing sound, coupled with the comforting heat of Helios’s embrace was enough to send me into a deep, restful sleep. When my breathing steadied, Helios slowly, silently slid away and covered me with the rumpled sheet before stepping out onto the balcony, naked, taking in the view of the city below.

After his shower, Shaw joined him, a towel tied around his waist, damp hair tousled and wild. He lit a cigarette and leaned on the railing, blowing smoke rings into the black, starless night.

“Guess there’s a first time for everything, yeah?”

#mr love queens choice #mlqc #mlqc smut #mlqc helios #mlqc shaw #oldie but goodie #although #@_@ reformatting this was a BEAST #UGH my most least favorite of parts

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mrlovememes · 1 year

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Unforseen Timeline. The "Unhappy ending" MLQC/ToT ***SPOILERS FOR BOTH GAMES. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.***

I've been really into Tears of Themis recently... but I can't help but want a fan fiction crossover with TOT and MLQC 👀 MC will be the same, maybe in one of the timeliness, after MC loses her evol that's when she finally starts to give up slowly. Yes she still miss having it, but then she starts wondering what it would be like to live a normal life. No longer having the queen power nor wanting to be the queen due to the responsibility and pain it comes with. She finally reaches a breaking point with all of the boys, never being satisfied with what she currently has with them. Each and everyone of them has brought her pain in some way. Finally she resorts to trying to have a normal life, she cancels miracle finder since it would be easy for the boys to find her if she were to still have a TV show she would have to constantly promotes. Perhaps she decided to become a lawyer, that way she's still helping people while also fighting for justice in her own way. I thought it would be fun to think that she eventually gets to her dream and moves to Stellis. After all, TOT does take place in 2030, (even tho there would be many,several plot holes lol.) She could get help from Shaw, we know that he'd helped MC create a fake identity before hand. So why not again? He'd be the only one tk ever contact MC while she's in Stellis only because we know Shaw would be hella petty if she up and left him after he helped her out. And so Youran then becomes Rosa. Leaving Lucien, Victor, Kiro and Gavin without a trace and with no warning. Just like they did to her all those years ago and multiple times. Never knowing if they'll be back or if they're alive and well. Figures it would be better this way, no more Black Sawn members keeping tabs on her, no more lies and hidden truths, broken promises. She joins Themis lawfirm and works under Mr. Wing, she's taken a liking to him. A boss would really be this nice? She would have never thought after spending all that time near the "tyrant" Victor. Even if as a lover he was sweet, as a boss he had always put so much pressure on her. She is delighted to be near Dr, Ritcher, always learning interesting and unique things. How he's always there to lend a helping hand and is always so kind. She doesn't have to worry about Vyn being after her genes or wanting to gain her evol back. (I like to think that in this AU scenario Loveland would be the only place where Evol's exist, like as if some force is stopping people from other places to gain access to the serum. After all I think they only did expirements on people from Loveland, as in that's where it started. But I could be wrong) Her curiosity peaks when she's with Marius because of his flirtatious nature and the way he's always teasing her. Knowing for a fact that even if he annoys her to no end, she can be assured that he is only Marius and no one else. With Luke... haha plot hole, I guess we could change it if it's an AU of sorts. Perhaps they come across each other in Stellis once MC moves and decides she wants to study law there? They become rather close, two peas in a pot. They have a lot in common! With Rosa now knowing Luke is in the NXX as well, he can let her know ahead of time if he's leaving and for what. No more waiting for Gavin to come back after months of being gone just so he can sneak in her room for a few minutes before having to leave again. So maybe solving murder cases and illegal drug cases isn't the most normal life to live. But there are at least no more people from black swan keeping tabs. She doenst have an evol and "the world" no longer needs to rely on the Queen's power. She at least live in peace for it.

Then for additional angst if you'd like just have the boys make an NXX mission telling her they're headed to Loveland. She freezes upon hearing these words but she tries her best to remain calm. She can only pretend to not know the place or boys for so long. Eventually she crosses paths with them once more... only for the boys to find out they've been replaced. The biggest shock to them was that their MC is still alive, she was missing/gone not dead like they had originally thought. After all, she got a new number. She never responded to their text or calls or even emails. They received nothing all these years. A mixture of so many emotions would consume the boys. Victor being replaced by Artem. Gavin being replaced by Luke. Kiro being replaced by Marius. Lucien being replaced by Vyn. And there's Shaw who's just chilling. Like "Hey Youran, long time no see? Or should I call you Rosa?" Anyway, this stupid thought came to me after playing tot and I wanted some angst since I do love both games. Major plot holes and problems for this AU/headcanon but I thought it would be fun lol

#mlqc #mrlovequeenschoice #mlqc kiro #mlqc victor #mlqc gavin #mlqc helios #mlqc lucien #tot #tot artem #tot vyn #tot luke #tot marius #otome

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link4eva · 2 years

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Helios:

Me:

#mlqc #mlqc kiro #mr love queen's choice #mr love kiro #周棋洛 #mr love helios #mlqc helios #I will gladly eat off of those tiddies good sir ✋😩#even if you punish me afterwards ( ͡O ͜ʖ ͡o)

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twin-books · 2 years

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Adrien!

This is an ask directly related to this and I'm finally here to answer it. Or at least part of it. Tagging @non-canon-central because they also asked for Adrien but I was unable to get to him at the time. For some reason Tumblr doesn't want me actually tagging them I guess, so hopefully this freaking works??? So let's make one thing pretty clear; I don't hate Adrien but I do hate his character. That sounds like an oxymoron, I am aware. The best way I can describe this is, it's like the opposite of liking a villain's character but fundamentally hating them as a person. Like I love the idea of Adrien. I think he has plenty of fun potential and it wouldn't take much to make him more intriguing but I just hate how he's written. I'm sure that comes as a shock to absolutely no one. I say this about almost every Miraculous character. I wanted to clear this up because a lot of people seem to believe that if you talk bad about a character, and it isn't some kind of joke, that you just hate that character entirely. This isn't the case with me. Now I mentioned a while back that the only way I believe I could ever hope to explain my frustration with Adrien's character is by comparing him to other similar characters or similar character arcs. My goal is to compare him to a few characters. I tried to keep it to characters within his age range but there are one or two on here that are adults (though I would be referencing a lot of their childhood for at least one). Since I will be comparing Adrien to these characters this means spoilers will be very hard to avoid so I'm just going to warn you now. If you don't want spoilers for the following I suggest looking into these things yourself; Sonic and the Black Knight, Sonic the Hedgehog Archie comics, Sonic Universe Archie comics, Sonic the Hedgehog IDW comics, Mr Love: Queen's Choice the Gavin and Kiro story arc, Koi to Producer: Evol X Love the Mr Love: Queen's Choice anime, Ben 10: Alien Force, Ben 10: Omniverse, and Miraculous Ladybug. I was initially going to include Raven Saga from Webtoon but decided against it since it's not nearly a big enough franchise as compared to the others and the author would most definitely not benefit from it. I highly recommend reading it and then you can guess what character in there I found similarities to Adrien in but was just actively done better. I will most likely be splitting this into parts just to make it an easier read. Part 1: Mr Love: Queen's Choice and/or Koi to Producer: Evol X Love - Kiro (Helios)

One of the reasons I believe Mr Love: Queen's Choice's characters are comparable examples to Adrien (despite all the characters presented are adults through most of the story) is because it is an otome game, which means its primary focus is romance much like Miraculous. But also, much like Miraculous, it involves high actions scenes and beings with superpowers. It balances these things quite well whereas Miraculous (in my opinion) does not. And unlike Miraculous, it presents itself as a romance first and foremost, making it clear where their primary focus is whereas Miraculous doesn't really do that. In fact, most of its marketing is pointing at girl power. At least MLQC knows what it's about. Since MLQC knows exactly what it's about it may not come as a shock at all to you that they know exactly what their characters are. And there are two characters in this game that share quite a few similarities to Adrien. However a main difference is that both characters have a clear direction their headed towards but Adrien doesn't.

So let's talk about Kiro (Helios). This is the character I know the least as compared to the others. Most of what I have learned about him I got from the anime which I have learned is not entirely accurate but I will be referencing most of that (sorry die-hard MLQC fans, I am a very slow reader) as well as some scenes from the game.

Who is Kiro, exactly? And who the heck is Helios? Let's define him. Kiro is a mega popular popstar (so popular that girls practically fall at his feet) with a love for junk food and sweets (despite his agent forbids him from eating them). He's musically gifted, being able to pick up and play any instrument after a very short period of trial and error. He is also known to moonlight as a movie actor and a model. He's got a child-like wonder to him and a huge appreciation for superheroes, specifically ones without powers (Batmen, for instance). He shows affection and comfort through cute gestures and physical touch. He's, in essence, a big teddy bear. He's such a teddy bear that the narrative often compares him to one. This perfect teddy bear like nature is easily comparable to Adrien's perfect sunshine character. They both are hugely popular and beloved by their fans. They both show incredible talent, able to take on many tasks given to them such as modeling, acting, and instrument playing with ease. They both show comfort and affection through cute gestures (though Adrien's can be more grandiose) and physical touch. Pretty similar, right? Here's the massive difference; Kiro has flaws. Kiro has secrets. There are things he actively keeps from the MC and behavior one wouldn't associate with his supposedly perfect teddy bear likeness. There's actually a narrative reason why Kiro is presented to be so perfect. There's a reason why it's shoved in your face. We're gonna get into huge spoiler territory here for Kiro. This is your only warning.

Kiro is secretly a vigilante code-named Key (a name passed down to him by his father figure that taught him everything he knows). Key is an expert hacker. Able to hack through almost anything. There's very few things he cannot bypass. He likes to think of himself as a hero and loves to play the hero role (much like how Adrien took to Chat Noir so comfortably). Kiro prefers to use his own wits and hacking skills rather than his evol. That's right, he has evol, which in MLQC is the equivalent to superpowers. His evol is absolute charm. This was actually not fully a secret to us, the reader, but it's a shock to MC. It's heavily implied that Kiro used this power almost unintentionally purely because he's selfish. He longs for people to love him and his power responds to his wants. It's implied he's not aware how much he may use it but it could only be at his concerts. In fact, Kiro may have only been made aware of it when evolvers control over their evol was lost due to tampering with, I believe, electro-magnetic waves. Where, at one of his concerts, his fans began to tear each other apart to prove they loved him more. This is such a shock to him he quits being a popstar immediately because he can't bare the idea he caused that, even if it wasn't his fault he lost control. Now here's the really annoying thing about Adrien; I could totally believe he secretly has absolute charm with the way people just fall in love with him and he's just totally unaware of it but the problem is it's also pretty clear Adrien doesn't even want the attention he gets. And despite how obvious he makes that people blatantly choose to ignore it. This includes Kagami, Chloe, Wayhem, and nearly the entire class! He's not trying to hide it guys! It's pretty obvious he's unhappy with it! What is the purpose of this? To show he's so unfairly treated? How none of this is his fault? He couldn't possibly be unintentionally feeding into some of this because he's perfect and that would be too interesting of an idea. /s Ah, yeah, but I guess it ain't totally obvious because he's totally cool with Ladybug and his best friends giving him that same attention (except in season 4 I guess). Double standards much? What the freak do you want, Adrien?

But let's get back to Kiro because we aren't near done yet. Now here's a fun thing, Kiro actually possesses another evol. This evol he tends to refuse to use unless he has to. It is revealed to us and to MC at the same time. It's important to note that neither of us were aware of it until he had absolutely no choice. I'm gonna try to explain this without giving away too many spoilers because this game is awesome; Kiro refuses to use this power probably because it goes against what being a hero means to him. I should also mention that over using evol can be harmful and even deadly to the evolver. This is also why Kiro probably only ever used absolute charm. Keeping this all in mind, Kiro only decides to use it when he and MC are being chased by the bad guys and there's no way to escape. He has to painfully make the choice to use it on her when they reach the door to the heart of the issue which buys her some time while he fends them off. He risks her hating him just to buy her time so she can destroy the machine and save everyone. He also risks dying due to the sudden amplification of evol power. This self-sacrificing may slightly remind you of Chat Noir but the main difference being... Kiro actually had a reason. There is only about 2 or 3 times Chat Noir's sacrifices had ever made sense in the narrative and were presented as possibly the only action to take in that moment. I cannot stress enough to you how horrifying it is that almost every time Chat Noir self-sacrifices there are clear other avenues they could take and yet he immediately just jumps to the extreme. It makes you think Adrien just wants to die but something as serious as that is never at all focused on beyond one small comment from Ladybug in Lies! For Kiro there was no other option. If they entered the room together they would almost certainly be caught and since in this world they use guns, MC or himself could be dead before he ever got the chance to use his powers. And because MC effectively believes him to be dead after this Kiro takes on a new identity. An identity that isn't the perfect cuddly teddy bear Kiro or the heroic Key but rather someone akin to an anti-hero. Kiro becomes Helios; a cold, methodical man not afraid to use guns and his own power against the enemy. Helios even tricks MC into believing that he has no idea who Kiro is. He actively tricks her just to preserve her good memories of Kiro because there's no way MC could like this cold man, there's no way she could like who he really is. And he does state this a few times, that Helios is the real him even though he seems to almost fear this side of himself. It is MC who had to help him learn to connect Kiro and Helios and to not separate himself. He is Kiro and Helios.

This could almost be compared to Adrien's relationship to Chat Noir. Expect, rather than fearing this other side, he actively chooses Chat Noir over Adrien in most instances. He actively believes Chat Noir to be his true self and does not respond well to being turned away as Chat. This could be interesting and a great way to cause, not only outside conflict, but inner conflict. But this is not even explored. One could argue Kuro Neko did it explore it. But it really didn't. Instead of focusing on who Chat Noir is it, instead, chose to focus on how much Chat Noir loves Ladybug and how she needs him there for... no reason? No, seriously. They give absolutely no good arguments as to why she shouldn't just keep Catwalker around. The one good argument they possibly had they didn't even use. And that was that he freaking distracts her. No, instead their argument here is that he's "too perfect", whatever that freaking means. Excuse me? I believe, since your whole city is at freaking risk, that's exactly the kind of individual you'd want for the job. Never mind you want Chat Noir back for your own personal reasons (whatever those are because they do a very poor job communicating it). Why the freak would anyone turn away someone that's "too perfect"? The only reason I can think of is if she's suspicious of him but she so obviously isn't. They don't even try to explain why Adrien should even keep Chat Noir around if he's apparently only argumentive, not taking anything seriously, and effectively just another member of the team based on the visuals alone. The only thing keeping Chat around is cataclysm. That is it. And that's such a weak argument to stand on when literally anyone else could wear that ring. But no, that can't happen because we have to keep the status quo, I guess. That Ladybug is awesome and Chat is there to just make us laugh and give her an inspiring speech every season finale.

You know what's great about Kiro and Helios? That the narrative doesn't demonize Helios like Kiro does. It goes out of its way to show you how Helios is just as important as Kiro!

I don't get why it's so hard to just show that Chat Noir is just as important to Ladybug as Adrien without having to reference cataclysm or that it's because he's Adrien. How about it's because he's Adrien and Chat Noir? Why are the writers so afraid to merge these two together as if they aren't the same person. Heck, you even have one episode where you do just that but it's a what if episode so it's therefore non-consequential! And I hated Ephemeral but at least it bothered to do that despite pretty much every other episode tackling a similar issue absolutely refusing to do so! But this also required Marinette finding out he was Adrien and then only coming to love Chat that way. Which isn't entirely horrible but it just feels kind of shallow. I would have much preferred she realized she liked Chat but didn't want to "betray" Adrien in her mind so she refused to acknowledge it and then this reveal allowed her to combine the two and except that she has the best of both worlds. In many ways the romance of MLQC lends itself well to the character of Kiro/Helios but the romance of Miraculous seems to fight against the character of Adrien Agreste/Chat Noir. Probably because Kiro and MC's relationship feels like she (and the writers) have fully accepted and loved who he is where Adrien and Marinette's relationship feels like her (and the writers) love only one side of him and the other part is kind of just a small bonus. Oh, but don't worry this works the exact opposite way. Where Kiro actively loves MC, all of her (even though she can be kind of stupid), Adrien over here seems to only freaking like Ladybug. Like, yeah, he's nice to Marinette and he blushes around her occasionally but oftentimes that just feels like he's only blushing because their in oddly intimate positions often for some unknown reason. And also because he likes her as a friend. In Chat Blanc it feels like as soon as he realizes Marinette is Ladybug he suddenly recognizes this out of no where crush (that was barely hinted at). With Kiro he fell in love with MC first, before he found out she was a badass and then he fell even harder. Which makes it all the more ironic that he's willing to except all of her, even her flaws, but he can't seem to do the same for himself. In fact, Kiro even fell in love with MC in a similar way Chat did for Ladybug. MC was his hero. Someone who saved him and others by constantly being around to cheer people up despite the very dark situations of their childhood (which I won't get into because again, I'm trying not to spoil too much here). But that went from just outright admiration to genuine love. Chat's crush feels like he's just been holding Ladybug up on a pedestal the whole time except for kind of near the end of season 4 which I'm not sure why it had to take him that long.

I am not asking for Adrien to be exactly like Kiro. I am asking for him to feel like a sturdy character like Kiro. I am just trying to show that despite the similarities Kiro's character was able to find success where Adrien's character seems to only find failure. Kiro is most definitely not a perfect character. No character is ever perfect. But that's why we love them, isn't it? Because they're imperfect? So why can't the ml writer's seem to pull Adrien out of that bubble? Just let him be selfish without somehow justifying it! Also, keep in mind that this is just my interpretation of Kiro based on my experience with the game and anime. Some of this could totally be wrong or misinterpreted but it speaks volumes I am able to come up with all of this about his character based on what little I know yet for Adrien I have to compare him to characters to even try to explain why he annoys me! But that's just one of the successful characters I could compare Adrien to. The next part I'm going to talk about Gavin, also from Mr Love: Queen's Choice, and see how he also compares to Adrien.

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shadows-lucidity90-blog · 2 years

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Helios: Someone will die.

Kiro: Of fun! =~•~=

#incorrect mlqc #mlqc kiro #mlqc helios #mlqc

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shinydelirium · 2 years

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This Helios line!!! The way he says and drags out the word "so". Also, why does he sound amused towards the end or is that just me?😏

#mlqc #kiro #mlqc kiro #helios #mlqc helios #mlqc go see him #gsh #go see him kiro #gsh kiro #go see him helios #gsh helios

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evie-solaris · 2 years

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Kiro & Helios plush dolls ☆

I like the little bears in their eyes ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ!

I'm looking to get another outfit for Helios. In the meantime he is stuck with this cutesy one (ᗒᗨᗕ).

#mr love queen's choice #mlqc #kiro #mlqc kiro #mlqc helios #plush doll #mlqc merch #love and producer #恋与制作人

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certain-blogs · 2 years

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#mlqc shaw #mlqc #love and producer #mlqc helios

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xcoconutbeanx · 2 years

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Finally got around to finishing Chapter 7 ❤️ hope you enjoy my story

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cheesy09 · 3 months

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[CN] Kiro's Unbiased Mirroring Mind's Quest (Part 2)

🌸 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]

Note: In order to better engage with this date, please read the main story (Season 1 at least), Clinic Date, and Unconditional Surrender Mind's Quest :>

Read Part 1: HERE

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

[PART 4]

MC: I'm home!

MC: Apple Box, you forgot to wipe your feet again! Kiro, help me get the towel, please!

Before Apple Box could run into the house, I grab him and call out into the house.

Kiro: Wait a minute!

After a while, the sound of footsteps begin to grow louder. I lower my head and pick up the scattered fur off of Apple Box and stretch out my hand towards the owner of the footsteps.

MC: Please help me, I can't ever trust Apple Box to wipe his feet... Huh?

I finally find something to be off in my peripheral vision. When I look up, I see Helios' face.

He is dressed in all black and fully armed, as if he is about to go out.

MC: Where are you going...?

Helios: I need to wrap up the BS stuff from the day before yesterday. This'll make it easier to move around.

MC: Oh~ so you're going to be a "bad guy" again.

After that night, I couldn't stop myself from teasing him like this. Sure enough, Helios raises his eyes towards me.

Helios: What sort of "bad guy" would hold a dog and wipe its feet?

Apple Box: Woof!

Apple Box responds as well. Helios holds up its paws and makes an attacking gesture at me.

Helios: If you use that term to tease me again, I will get angry.

MC: Hmph, you can't do anything to me when you're angry. The most outrageous thing that happened was the night before yesterday.

Helios arches his eyebrows a bit after hearing my provocation, as if my retaliation surprised him, and then raises the corners of his mouth.

Helios: Why do I feel... like Miss Chips has gotten a lot more arrogant towards me since that night?

I feel the same way.

After the night, there was indeed a small invisible stone that we both kicked away in tacit agreement.

While there's obviously no change in our dynamic, he seems to be a lot more relaxed than before.

I wipe off Apple Box's last paw and hand him the towel.

MC: Yep, I think a certain someone is satisfied with me as I am now.

MC: Go on~~ Wash the towel before you head out.

Helios: ......

Helios' throat freezes and he narrows his eyes - I have to admit that his current threatening look is indeed a bit more intimidating than Kiro's.

But only a little bit, I internally chastise myself.

We look at each other for about three seconds. Helios obediently takes the towel and goes into the bathroom to clean it.

He rinses out the water and turns around to glare at me.

Helios: I will find a way to "pacify" you.

MC: Yeah, okay~ But before you pacify me, don't forget to kiss me when you go out.

I naturally pucker my lips at him and Helios leans down. Just as our breaths are about to merge, he suddenly steps away.

Helios: ....It's time for the bad guy to go.

A chuckle passes by my ears, and the person in front of me quickly slips out the door. I am left momentarily stunned.

MC: KI! RO!!!

Is it possible that that night turned on some strange switch between us?

After Helios leaves, I lay on the sofa and watch TV absentmindedly, replaying the experiences from the past few days in my mind.

It constantly feels like we've gone from accommodating each other to competing with each other.

But this change of dynamic isn't annoying, but more...

MC: ...Tantalizing?

I can't help but cover my face after muttering that word and toss around a couple of times on the sofa.

The cell phone besides me suddenly vibrates twice, and Kiro's text message pops up.

I open the page and find a review link for a private club and a newly opened arcade.

Kiro: Which one do you want to go to?

MC: Are you done?

Kiro: Not yet, I'm currently beating someone up and texting you with one hand.

MC: ?? Kiro, why are you using force to solve things again?

Kiro: Under special circumstances, would you like me to give you a voice call for you to listen to?

Before I can reply, I get his incoming voice call.

MC: ....!

I subconsciously press the connect button and carefully hold the phone away.

??: Boss, what you're doing is completely contrary to our philosophy. Now...

What comes from the receiver isn't a horrifying scream, but an impassioned male voice speaking. I can't help but let out a sigh.

Helios: Did you hear that?

MC: Are you... in a meeting?

Helios' muffled laughter overwhelms the man's voice and reaches my ears.

Helios: Uh-uh. It's been going on for almost two hours.

MC: Then you lied to me about beating someone up!

Helios: I am beating them up.

Helios: Every time I hold a meeting, nothing comes from it except for intrigue, rhetoric and slogans. I beat them all up a hundred times in my mind.

MC: Pfft--

Helios doesn't even lower his voice when he says this. I can clearly hear the choking of a male voice, along with a low laugh coming from the side (A/n: Obviously Hephaestus, HAHA).

??: No one ever takes calls from outsiders at BS meetings. Helios, don't go too far!

Helios: Really? Then I'll be the first.

Helios: Also, the person on the phone is no outsider. Isn't that right, Queen?

Hearing his nervous and cold tone, all I can do is think about how funny and cute he was being, and I'm unable to keep myself from singing along with him.

MC: That's right, how can I be considered an outsider!

Helios: So, how does the "wife" think I should retort to that gentleman just now?

MC: There's nothing to refute. You're the Boss, let him listen to you!

Helios: Okay. [To the others] Queen says she wants you all to listen to me, so shut up.

Helios: [back to MC] Is there something else you wish to convey?

MC: Get off work quickly. A two-hour meeting is already long enough!

Helios: No problem, it'll be over now.

Helios: Don't forget to choose a date location for me.

After hanging up the phone, I carefully look at the two links he sent and send him a reply.

MC: Let's go to the arcade.

Even after I arrive at the arcade, my mind is still preoccupied with that phone call from earlier.

The fact is that Kiro rarely ever engages in such provocative high-profile things. He's always had the habit of shouldering responsibility alone first, and then asking me for my opinion.

As long as I show the slightest bit of hesitation or trepidation, he would retreat back to the safest boundary.

And now, when he gives orders to those people without warning, he keeps reminding me of the confession he made while holding my hand on the airship. (Reference to Unconditional Surrender Mind's Quest :>)

The same bravery, the same fearlessness.

I suddenly understand all the love scenes in those third-rate novels and tv shows that I often scorned.

--Turns out that this is really exciting!

I cough and try hard to control my expression so as to not let passers-by notice my mood being on a high.

I feel inexplicably good, and the wait is no longer as boring.

I put in coins and play for a while, but unfortunately I get nothing. So I send a message to Kiro.

MC: I clawed a bunch of air. Waiting for Master Kiro to come and help~

Three minutes later, I send a second message.

MC: This video arcade just opened. There are very few people...

After another five minutes, I sent a third message.

MC: I just took a look at the traffic conditions. Seems like there's a traffic jam. You don't need to worry~

Another ten minutes pass by... Kiro doesn't reply to single message.

Those high-strung emotions begin to ebb, and I become increasingly anxious about waiting. My thoughts involuntarily wander--

Besides the meeting today, did he have anything else to do?

But he was injured before, so he shouldn't be going overboard, he...

I lean against the claw machine. After ten minutes pass after the agreed upon time, unable to hold myself back any longer, I press the call button.

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

[Memory Silhouette]

In the massive conference hall, the stagnant atmosphere slowly fills the air.

Hephaestus: It's "just" a laboratory for marginal projects, so shut it down and sell it as soon as possible? How generous of you guys.

BS Member: It's not you who invested money and manpower into it. There are many people eyeing this piece of meat, all competing with us.

BS Member: Why not let them have this small profit and use the money to do more profitable business? Wouldn't it be better to support the long-term development of BS?

Hephaestus: What kind of business is so profitable? It wouldn't "happen" to be covered by your industry again, would it?

As soon he finishes speaking, the man throws the document down and turns to Helios like a cat whose tail has been stepped on.

Everyone's eyes are instantly focused on the person in charge.

Helios casually leans back in his chair, twirling his dagger in one hand. His cold eyes do not even focus on the man.

He has long grown tired of these boring conflicts of interest.

Helios: I have nothing to say.

BS Member: That... why?

Helios: Too much nonsense and no focus.

Helios: I don't care what sort of blueprint you have. If you don't have anything practical to say, it's better to keep your mouth shut.

As he speaks, he hooks his dagger with his fingertips and slowly places it on the table. Then he raises his gaze and glances at the man coldly.

Helios: Otherwise, no matter how passionate your tone is, it'll just be an incompetent excuse.

The air becomes quiet, and he vaguely hears the members of BS taking a breath.

BS Member: Understood, I will report a more elaborate plan right now.

An impassioned report sounds again in the conference hall. Unfortunately, the part that implied interests is mixed with too much uncertainty. Helios almost hears through one ear and out the other.

He misses her voice a little.

He taps on his cell phone to send a message to MC, and after receiving a satisfactory response, he directly gives her a call.

BS Member: So you see, Boss--

Helios: Rejected.

BS Member: Boss, what you are doing is completely contrary to our philosophy. Now...

The call connects, and the girl's voice drowns out the man's noisy retort.

Helios: Did you hear that?

Helios can't stop himself from curling his lips when he hears MC respond. Compared to the obscure noises of the meeting, her voice is as clean as a clear spring.

Helios: Every time I hold a meeting, nothing comes from it except for intrigue, rhetoric and slogans. I beat them all up a hundred times in my mind.

The report immediately stops. From the corner of his eyes, he can tell that everyone in the conference hall is obviously shaken. Even Hestia has stopped recording, and Hephaestus can't help but laugh.

The boring meeting reaches its climax, leaving him very staisfied.

So the two of them continue to tacitly sing along, cutting off the meeting in time before it turned into a farce of mutual criticism.

Helios: Okay. Queen says she wants you all to listen to me, so shut up.

Of course, the consequences of making such shocking remarks are subject to a lot of discussion, bringing rise to new topics in the conference hall. Phrases such as "out of line" and "arrogant" are often heard from time to time.

Out of line? All he wants is to be out of line.

Helios nonchalantly holds his phone to his ear, seeming to appear particularly attentive.

Helios: Don't forget to choose a date location for me.

Everyone: ......

This sentence successfully puts an end to the final discussion. Only Hephaestus is unaffected by the uncomfortable atmosphere and shows a mischievous smile.

After hanging up the phone, Helios stands up under everyone's astonished gazes, passes the person giving the report, walks through the extra large conference table and heads straight for the door.

When he passes by Hephaestus, he casually mentions.

Helios: Give me the minutes of the meeting later. If you don't see a breakthrough, break it yourself.

That one sentence makes his position clear. Hephaestus nods, but some members speak up anxiously from behind him.

BS Member: But it's best to have the Boss in charge of the meetings... Are you in a hurry?

Helios doesn't stop, he opens the door and walks out. Only a cold and arrogant voice sounds from afar.

Helios: I'm going on a date.

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

[PART 5]

Beep-- beep--

The long busy tone strikes my eardrums again and again. As soon as the call finally connects, I speak hurriedly.

MC: Kiro, where are you right now? Why haven't you replied to any of my texts?

As soon as blurt out those words, I realize how off they sounded. After all, it's not like I waited long, so I quickly add on.

MC: I don't mean to rush you, but I'm afraid something might have happened to you on the way...

Helios: Why did Kiro's and Miss Chips' calls become about us worrying about each other again?

Helios interrupts my confession, his voice rising with obvious laughter.

Helios: Well, Obviously the way you spoke to Helios before made you seem very domineering. If I didn't know better, I would've thought there were two Miss Chips switching back and forth.

MC: I...

I am left speechless for a moment. After being treated like this by him, I seem to find that I have some "deferential treatment".

While I feel a little guilty, I can't help but be harsh.

MC: I'm not that sophisticated... I was obviously talking to Kiro, okay?

MC: Do you prefer me when I speak rudely?

Helios: I like your frankness.

He gives me a very straightforward answer.

Helios: Remember what I told you before? That I was worried I didn't give you enough security? (Reference to Unconditional Surrender)

MC: Mm, of course I remember.

He and I have been groping for a solution to this problem, and now, I have a vague feeling that we are close to finding it.

Helios: When you make requests and frankly express your emotions to me, I feel like you're giving all of yourself to me.

Helios: The good, the bad...

Helios: And me taking over all of this is what Kiro really wants to do.

Helios: So tell me, what are your true first thoughts that you want to convey to me?

MC: I....

You can be willful, you can be less scrupulous, and give yourself entirely to him.

I take a deep breath and purse my lips.

MC: I think it's annoying that Kiro hasn't replied to my messages for a long time. I'm growing impatient waiting!

MC: You should explain yourself to me immediately and coax me!

Helios: Hahahahahaha!

Unbridled laughter resounds from the other side. A long time passes before he stops, but his voice is still lilting.

Helios: You're really bad-tempered. That's nice.

Helios: Well... I originally skipped the meeting and wanted to rush over to meet you, but as soon as I got in the car, I was stopped by someone careless.

Helios: However I did follow your instruction and avoided using force myself. Instead I used the power of being the Boss to send them away.

Helios: The atmosphere was so tense at the time that I didn't pay attention to my phone for a moment. So I missed the messages you sent.

Abrupt music mixes into the receiver, accompanying his explanation, as if he was quickly walking through a noisy hallway.

Helios: Fortunately, I didn't miss your call.

Helios: And that concludes my report. Are you satisfied or dissatisfied with it, Miss MC?

MC: So-so.

I hum twice, already sweet and sour bubbles floating around in my heart.

MC: Now it's your turn. After all, you caught on to my feelings, and I need to take care of you.

MC: Kiro, what are your first thoughts?

Helios: Mine?

The sound of the music is clear, and it gradually overlaps with the tune coming from the game console next to me.

I'm not left with much time to put down my phone by the time that familiar breath approaches me.

Helios: When I went out, I still owed you a kiss.

Helios: It's time I made up for it.

A hand covers my eyes.

The shallow pecks have Kiro's taste, but as his entanglement deepens, it gradually turns into a more sensational request.

He ensnares me, trapping me between the machine and his arms, leaving me unable to retreat. All I can do is make do within this square inch of space.

--This isn't the way to kiss when out in public.

My fingers are a little weak and I can hardly hold the phone, so I give up struggling and grab his collar.

Leather, unfamiliar, not a style he often wears.

My covered sight makes it impossible for me to distinguish whether the one kissing me was the golden one or the silver one.

But no matter which one it is, it is Kiro who I love.

At some point, the music above my head has changed, and it seems like a century passes before he lets go of my lips.

With my sight clear, I see Helios' face.

I lick my moist lips, and when I speak, my voice sounds so hoarse that it surprises me.

MC: That... was not your first thought.

Helios: What was?

MC: That you owed me.

No hesitation. I have nothing to worry about around him. I repeat this silently in my mind and grab his collar a little harder.

MC: ...You didn't change back to Kiro's appearance. Is it to make dating easier?

Helios: No.

Helios stares at me, his eyes full of calm.

Helios: I feel that both Kiro and Helios belong to me, so I can show you whichever side I want.

I chuckle and raise my eyebrows at him.

MC: How are you going to show it? Or are you going to show me some Kiro style cuteness first?

Helios: .....

Helios: You really seem to be getting more and more devious.

MC: But you already admitted that you like me like this.

I answer confidently. My fingers loosen his collar and at the same time, slowly slide up his throat, along with his breathing.

MC: Are you really not going to show me my sun god?

MC: I'd love to see it.

His Adam's apple, against which my fingertips are pressed, violently slides up and down. Helios' blue eyes turn into a deeper indigo under the refraction of the light.

Helios: It's a bit weird to act cute with this face, can I ask for a compromise?

MC: What do you want to change?

He restrains my rebellious hand, and before I have time to react, I find myself falling into his arms.

Some overbearing friction renders me unable to move, and his playful laughter kisses the shell of my ear.

Helios: It's inconvenient to show it in an arcade, so I'll tell you another date location.

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

Masterlist: Here

#THE DYNAMIC? CHEF'S KISS #THE BANTER? A+++#THE PUSH AND PULL BETWEEN THEM? RAWR #HELIOS & QUEEN? POWER COUPLE? YES. YES YES YES!!!#THE WAY THESE TWO HAD ME ROLLING ON THE FLOOR DYING OF LAUGHTER IS UNREAL #mlqc #mlqc cn #mlqc spoilers #mlqc kiro

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lydskisses · 2 years

Text

🌟 Preorder // Helios POP UP PARADE Figurine 🌟

All items are in Singapore Dollar (SGD), mailed via tracked airmail. All stated prices are already inclusive of shipping from China to me. Please note that mailing to you is additional. PayPal is accepted for international buyers.

For USA/Europe/Canada parcels, tracked mailing will start from SGD$11.90 (250g) and non-tracked mailing will start from SGD$8.30 (250g). For other countries, please dm for info!

Payment Deadline: 29 July SGT

ETA: Jan 2023

SGD$68/ea

#mr love: queen's choice #mr love dream date #mlqc #love and producer #mr love mobile #mlqc kiro #mlqc Helios #周棋洛 #恋与制作人 #otome #papergames

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thatfanfictionchick · 1 year

Text

Helios, Artemis, and Hades come back to HQ after a job together.

Artemis: You can go home now Helios.

Helios: Cool.

Helios gets in a car and drives away.

Hades: Was that his car?

Artemis: No.

Artemis: It was Ares.

#the rivalry continues #he leaves it in a ditch on purpose #mr love queens choice #mlqc incorrect quotes #mlqc helios #mlqc artemis #mlqc hades

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shuubah · 1 year

Text

Happy birthday, Kiro!! 🎂🎉💛

Using the template officially provided, I've written my letter to the past Kiro. I could write more, if only there was more space left. 🥳

#kiro #キラ #周棋洛 #kiro mlqc #helios #helios mlqc #mr love: queen's choice #mr love: dream date #恋与制作人 #恋とプロデューサー #恋プロ #러브앤프로듀서

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mlqc-diary · 2 years

Text

Shaw

If you're gonna kiss me, use your tongue. Don't do things halfway.

#helios #mr love queen's choice #mlqc #evol x love #mlqc shaw

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laxmiree · 11 months

Text

[CN] MLQC Season 2 Chapter 45 Translation

⚠️ 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~

IMPORTANT!!! to fully understand the story, prior knowledge of previous S2 chapters are needed. Before, I made a short summary that explain those chapters. I hope this can help :D

The person walking behind the curtain sees everything before his eyes.

“His ribs are already broken.”

“If it causes mediastinal compression of the diaphragm, asphyxiation will occur within a few minutes.”

“You now have a choice. You can either take him to seek urgent medical attention, or you can surrender more lives into my hands.”

Translation under the cut!

If you want to follow along the dubbing-> [Here]

Previous chapter-> [Here]

[Chapter 45-1]

The chapter begins with a flashback in which Victor bestows Kiro/Helios the authority to rule as the boss of BS.

Cut back to MC in the office- she has the feeling that she forgets something (or rather someone-) very important.

Anna informs that several projects that were put on hold during the investigation can now be resumed. Anna assures that she will take care of those projects. However, she reminds MC about the upcoming physical examination, which they seem to have forgotten. The company had recently organized a collective inspection for everyone. MC promise her to go for the examination after finishing her work.

-As the end of the workday approaches, MC planned to go home and rest. However, just as she was about to leave, she received a phone call from Lucien.

Lucien: Are you off work? I'm almost at the company entrance downstairs.

MC: Huh? I was just about to go downstairs. Why did you suddenly come over?

On the other end of the phone, there is a brief pause, and a familiar gentle laughter quietly resonates in my ear.

Lucien: Perhaps it’s because the weather is nice today, and the sunset is beautiful.

Lucien: So, I thought of coming to pick you up and leave work together.

Since that special banquet, for the past two months, both Lucien and I have been busy with our own matters.

(refer to what happen in S2 chapter 43)

It has been more than ten days since we last met, but at this moment, upon hearing his voice, my heart couldn’t help but leap with joy, and even my footsteps unconsciously quickened.

Lucien: [shout a bit] MC, I’m here.

The electrifying voice in my ears merged seamlessly with the voice not far away. I turned my head and saw Lucien looking at me with a smile on his face.

I quickly took two steps towards his direction.

MC: Did you come straight from the research institute?

Lucien nodded and opened his palm towards me, his lips curving into a subtle smile.

Lucien: Hm, there’s a place I want to go with you. Let’s go, the car is up ahead.

MC: Oh~ Professor Lucien specifically came to pick me up. Instead of going home directly, you even arranged other activities?

I subconsciously hold his slender fingers, allowing him to lead me forward.

But in the next second, I come to a halt.

A black sedan, as if it has been waiting for a while, with a familiar emblem that quickens my heartbeat.

It is a NW’s car.

[Chapter 45-3]

The previous times I saw a car with this emblem, they weren’t pleasant occasions.

Seeing Lucien remain silent, I turn my head and give his hand a squeeze.

MC: Is this the car we’re getting into?

Lucien: Yes.

His eyes are calm, as if he truly just wants to take me out for an outing, deepening the mystery in my heart.

The pitch-black car door opens slowly, revealing the leather seats inside.

I glance at Lucien again and then get into the car without hesitation.

The moment I sit in the car, I can feel a penetrating gaze coming from the rearview mirror.

The driver's seat and the passenger seat are occupied by two individuals wearing matching NW uniforms, sitting upright without diverting their gaze.

Driver: Please fasten your seat belts, both of you.

After the commanding tone of the instruction, the car starts slowly. The icy coldness of the cabin seems to have isolated all the warmth of the lingering sunlight, making me instinctively tense up.

Lucien: Officer Silas* has some questions and wants to talk to you.

(T/N: Officer Silas is the same person as Xiao Yue. If you’ve read my previous translation – I will use Silas instead of Xiao Yue from now on. It’s because EN server just recently update the new chapter that contain his localized name and they translated Xiao Yue’s name into Silas.)

Lucien’s straightforward opening statement actually clarifies some of the doubts in my mind.

However, since the overlapping worlds, there has indeed been no activity from Silas's side. Why would he approach me at this moment?

I let out a pensive “Oh” and my thoughts continue to race.

MC: So, I suppose I can only find out the specific questions by meeting Officer Silas, right?

In response to my probing gaze, Lucien’s eyes casually sweep over the two NW team members in front, and he winks at me.

Lucien: [chuckle] That’s natural. After all, the matters that Officer Silas wants to know are considered highly classified.

Lucien: It’s not convenient to disclose too much in public settings.

Lucien: However, since Officer Silas extended such a formal invitation, I believe that only you have the answers to these questions. I think, MC, as long as you can be as forthcoming as possible, there’s no need to hold back any information.

Lucien’s words were spoken particularly slowly, with emphasized words and pauses, which made me vaguely guess what he meant.

If it were just something related to CORE, he wouldn’t extend such an “invitation.”

Aside from CORE, the only things that could make Silas so eager to know are likely the overlapping worlds and the door that appeared in Loveland City.*

(iirc in S2 chapter 39-Gavin’s part NW tried to bring a door from another dimension and they successfully did with Gavin’s effort. However since it happens on the loop, Gavin and NW people including Silas will forget why the door appear in the first place or what it actually did.)

The fragmented light and shadows between the cities fall on Lucien’s forehead through the car window. He lowers his gaze and glances at his watch, his eyes hiding boundless tenderness.

Lucien: It’ll probably take a while longer to get there. In the meantime, we can both relax a bit.

MC: How about we listen to the radio broadcast? After all, we’re stuck in traffic anyway.

Driver: I’m sorry, but it’s not allowed.

Lucien: In that case, I’d like to have a brief discussion with Miss Producer about the upcoming investigation for our next episode.

Lucien: As her program advisor, I don’t think it would violate any regulations, right?

The confident curve of Lucien’s lips is slightly upturned in the rearview mirror, and the two drivers exchange a silent nod of approval.

Confused, I meet Lucien’s gaze. I haven’t asked him for help recently, so could it be that he wants to take this opportunity to tell me something?

Lucien: [in an almost whisper] I think you should be familiar with the bird called “Falcon”.

MC: ...Um, I learned about it from some educational programs before. It’s a very fierce bird.

Lucien: That’s right, falcons possess sharp talons and have the instinct to chase after other animals.

Lucien: Compared to peace-loving pigeons, most other species tend to steer clear of falcons.

Lucien: However, both falcons and pigeons care deeply for their habitats, as it is the place they call home and coexist.

Lucien’s voice is calm and gentle, his narration flowing like moonlight on a tranquil lake.

Lucien: But one day, the falcon discovered a deadly disease and decided to return to the valley to inform everyone.

Lucien: However, halfway through his flight, he realized something important.

Lucien: He had sharp talons, but because of that, he couldn’t get close to everyone. It was a predicament unique to the falcon.

Lucien: What do you think the falcon should do next?

A subtle curve appeared at the corner of Lucien’s eyes, and then he looked ahead at the seats in front of us.

Suddenly, I realized that the falcon he mentioned might be Silas, and I was the pigeon.

I lowered my head for a moment, pondering, and an answer emerged.

MC: If the falcon were to approach other birds hastily, not only would they not listen to him, but it might also cause chaos.

MC: But he cares about his homeland and wouldn’t allow the disease to spread.

MC: So... his best course of action would be to inform the pigeons.

Lucien nodded approvingly and continued speaking.

Lucien: Although falcons may attack pigeons, the pigeons are not afraid of falcons. So, the falcon turned back on its way and arrived at the pigeon’s nest to tell them about the disease.

Lucien: The pigeons were well aware that leaving the nest would make them an easy prey for the falcon, but they still decided to leave the safety of their home and successfully delivered the message.

Lucien: In the end, other animals in the world were also spared from the disaster.

Lucien paused for a moment.

Lucien: Falcons and pigeons, despite being birds, have to go through the same predicament as humans.

Lucien: Miss producer, don’t you think that this story would make for an interesting material for the next episode?

The predicament... Lucien’s words made me realize something. Silas and I are currently in a similar situation.

Silas has repeatedly “invited” me to obtain CORE, and I have also used the power of NW to save the world.

Even though we have been on opposing sides from the beginning, when faced with a common threat, it is highly possible to seek cooperation.

Just like how, in a confrontation, a pigeon cannot be a match for a falcon, yet the falcon cannot replace the pigeon and may even need the pigeon’s help.

Upon careful consideration, unlike before, this time Silas had sent Lucien to invite me without resorting to forceful methods.

Perhaps, this is some sort of signal.

I turn my head, and Lucien’s gaze is like a serene lake, with his crescent-shaped brows and eyes filled with enigmatic mystery.

Lucien: But in reality, this story has another alternative.

He pondered for half a second.

Lucien: What if the pigeon chose to remain silent? What would the world be like then?

[Chapter 45-4]

A car slowly drives into a flat wasteland, and the NW base comes into view.

After passing through heavy iron gates and navigating through twisting gray corridors, I and Lucien eventually arrive at Silas' office door with the guidance.

As Lucien lightly knocks on the door a few times, a cold and distant voice can be heard from inside the room.

Silas: Come in.

Inside the spacious office, Silas sits behind the desk, and the familiar NW uniform stands out under the lights.

Silas: Professor Lucien, thank you for your hard work.

Silas: I heard that you shared an interesting story on the way. I would also like to take some time to listen. Is that possible?

Lucien: I didn't expect Commander Silas to be interested in fables.

Silas: Reality itself is a fable, isn't it?

Lucien: If we have the opportunity, I would love to have a deep discussion with Commander Silas.

There is no hint of any agreement in Lucien's tone. Ignoring Silas' scrutiny, Lucien turns to me, his eyes slightly curved.

Lucien: [almost a soft whisper] I'm waiting for you outside. See you later.

As we brush past each other, Lucien casually hooks his finger with mine, like an invisible strength.

Although I am mentally prepared to face it alone, when it actually comes to this moment, my nerves can't help but tense up.

After all, in front of this person, it is necessary to remain vigilant at all times.

Silas: Miss MC, please have a seat.

Silas gestured towards the sofa in the distance, taking a seat across from it and even pushing a cup of hot tea towards me in a friendly manner.

Silas: I've been wanting to have a chat with you for a while, but I never found the right opportunity.

Silas: That's why I arranged this invitation specifically, hoping you wouldn't find it abrupt.

MC: Not at all. Commander Silas, this invitation is much more polite than before.

MC: I remember you are not someone who beats around the bush. Professor Lucien mentioned that you have some questions to ask me, so why don't we start directly?

Not in the mood for pleasantries and maneuvering, I decided to be straightforward about my intentions. Silas didn't seem to mind and patiently took a sip of tea.

Silas: I brought you here mainly to gather some information.

Silas: Some... answers that only you know.

Silas's lips parted slightly as the cold, slender corners of his eyes curved.

Silas: The reason why the sudden stone door was able to remain in Loveland City was due to the power of NW. In other words, it was I who allowed you to enter that door.

Silas: As a participant, NW has the right to know everything related to it.

Indeed, Silas's intention was directed towards that door. He calmly set down his teacup, but his tone was filled with an indescribable pressure.

I collected my thoughts and contemplated how to cleverly answer this question. After all, in reality, all I knew was that it was the birthplace of the world's rules. However, Silas was a person with deep scheming, and if I claimed not to know, he wouldn't believe me.

MC: But NW is just a participant.

The warm mist from the tea conveniently obscured Silas's expression, and the room fell into silence.

Silas: You alone cannot bear the weight of this burden.

Silas: Miss MC should be aware of what that door signifies. It may very well be related to the future of Loveland City and the futures of the people you care about.

Silas: If NW cannot predict it in advance, this city will lose its most crucial barrier to the future.

Silas: CORE is indeed a valuable chip, but it is not enough to solve all problems. You agree, don't you?

Silas raised his gaze slightly, his tone casual yet not hiding the underlying threat.

I pursed my lips, weighing various scenarios in my mind.

Silas made a valid point. Whether it was the past Queen or the current CORE, I still knew very little about the power I possessed, leaving me struggling to handle various situations. Recent events only served to confirm this truth.

However, considering Silas's position and goals, once he knows the secret of the door, he will undoubtedly seek even greater power. This will undoubtedly create new crises.

I lifted my head, looking directly at Silas, my decision already made.

Moreover, Silas was mistaken about one thing—I was never alone.

Even in the face of Silas and the falcons that could kill me at any moment, I still had the right to remain silent.

MC: Silas, your reasoning is indeed appropriate, but I also have my concerns.

Silas: Oh? Do tell.

MC: Based on our previous "collaborations" with NW, I believe there is room for improvement in the way you treat your cooperative partners.

Silas raised his chin slightly, his face expressionless. After a moment of contemplation, he chuckled lightly and casually picked up a file from the side.

Silas: No problem, I will seriously consider it.

Silas: It's getting late, Miss MC. Please take your leave.

Silas's words caught me off guard. Did it end so quickly?

Silas: However, at this time tomorrow, I will send someone to "invite" you once again. I appreciate your continued cooperation.

...This person wasn't so easy to give up. It sounded nice, but wasn't it still a form of coercion? I couldn't help but feel annoyed.

MC: I also have my own matters to attend to. Just because Officer Silas asks for my cooperation doesn't mean I can make time for it.

Silas: Of course, I understand how busy Miss MC is.

As if unsurprised by my response, Silas smiled.

Silas: But there's something I'd like to tell you.

Silas: NW has an important experiment recently, and Professor Lucien is fully responsible for it. So, he will be here every day. On time to work, on time to leave.

The deliberate wording carried a naked threat. Looking at the person in front of me, feigning concern, I felt a mixture of disgust and worry.

Lucien will surely not allow himself to be trapped. Perhaps his cooperation today and his intentional act of bringing me here were part of his plan?

I narrowed my eyes, staring directly at Silas.

MC: Well then, see you tomorrow, Silas.

Walking through the cold and repetitive corridors, I am guided into a spacious area, where cold machines are separated by huge transparent glass panels.

At first glance, I spot Lucien's figure, enveloped by cold and gleaming instruments that emit a daunting roar.

Operator: Inspection complete. Access to the Core Laboratory granted.

The operator skillfully removes the devices restraining Lucien's body. He turns sideways, changing into a research outfit, and as our eyes meet, a slight flicker appears in his gaze.

After exchanging a few words with the person next to him, he turns and walks towards me. I quickly step forward to meet him.

Lucien: Don't worry, it's just routine pre-experiment preparations.

As if anticipating my question, Lucien places his palm on the back of my hand and gently caresses it.

I stare directly into his eyes, and after confirming that there's nothing unusual about his body, I finally release the tension that was hanging over me.

The surrounding gazes, seemingly impartial, fall upon us like surveillance, making me feel uncomfortable all over.

So, I take a step forward and wrap my arm around Lucien's.

MC: I just finished discussing the cooperation with Silas.

As if sensing the underlying meaning of my words, Lucien looks at me with a half-smile, and we both walk toward the exit in unison.

Lucien: Since it's a collaboration, what are the conditions you're proposing, Miss Producer?

MC: My conditions are simple.

MC: Starting from now until the completion of your experiment with NW, every day during this period, I will take you home after work.

(T/N: sob she just want to make sure that he’s safe :”)

[Chapter 45-6]

First day, second day…

Silas is indeed very patient, every day I see NW's car being parked downstairs in my company.

And I can only muster up twelve points of patience* to deal with Silas.

(T/N: 打起十二分的耐心" is an idiomatic expression in Chinese. It means to gather or summon up one's utmost patience or to be extremely patient. So yes MC is putting in a significant amount of effort to maintain her composure and handle the situation calmly LOL)

The only thing worth celebrating is that every day, the pressure accumulated in NW is dissolved during the "after-work time" spent with Lucien.

Walking along the street tinged with golden dusk, we pass by a flower shop and buy a bunch of vibrant and delicate flowers.

Or following the slow and tantalizing aroma of food, we discover a small shop hidden in a deep alley.

These leisurely after-work moments almost make me forget the fact that "I was forced to come to NW" in the first place.

On this day after work, I had almost gotten used to heading straight to the NW car. However, just as the car was descending from the overpass, the communication inside the car rang, and the driver pressed a button.

NW team member: Sir Silas… Yes, I understand.

After hanging up the phone, he turns back to me and says.

NW team member: The meeting with the commander is canceled today due to some urgent matters. Do you want to go back now?

MC: Go back?

Why should I be at the beck and call of NW, coming and going as they please? A hint of anger wells up in my heart, but I maintain a calm expression on my face.

MC: Is that so? Since Commander Silas is busy, please be kind enough to drop me off at the entrance of NW. I'll wait for Professor Lucien there.

NW team member: Alright.

Just waiting at the entrance doesn't violate any rules. After the NW car dropped me off at the entrance, it slowly drove into the gates.

I boredly scrutinized the NW team members standing guard at the entrance, my thoughts racing in my mind.

The fact that Silas sent a car to pick me up as usual indicated that he had intended to continue "questioning" me and asking the same questions as the past few days. However, halfway through, he suddenly decided to send me back.

-Could it be that there is an emergency situation within NW?

-But if they are willing to let me wait here now, it shouldn't have anything to do with Lucien, right?

Hesitant footsteps circle the entrance again, and suddenly the sound of the door opening comes from behind.

MC: Lucien!

Lucien walks out of the NW's entrance, and when he sees me, a gentle light glimmers in his dark eyes.

Lucien: [tenderly] Have you waiting long?

I shake my head at him and quickly walk up to him. I discreetly gesture towards the nearby NW team members coming and going, and cautiously begin speaking.

MC: Is something happening at NW?

Lucien gently caught hold of my fingers and discreetly placed my hand inside his coat pocket.

Lucien: This is not the place to talk. Let's discuss it when we get home.

Until we sit in Lucien's car, the imposing building gradually recedes from our view, and Lucien finally speaks up to explain.

Lucien then explain that today, an attempted data theft incident occurred within NW. The suspect is believed to be a core researcher who was somehow controlled by an Evol ability. The incident was triggered when the suspect accessed the files, activating the alarm system. The motive behind the theft is still unclear, as the information has been kept confidential by Silas.

While the situation is set aside for now, MC expresses her concern about how long Lucien's experiments will continue. Lucien admits he cannot provide a definite answer at the moment, but he expects to rely on MC to "pick him up" and continue their arrangement for the foreseeable future.

This news brings a headache to MC, as she wonders how to deal with Silas's persistence. So, she asks Lucien how he would deal with Silas if he were in her position.

Lucien suggests using the information she possesses as leverage and capitalizing on the resources available to both NW and herself. He highlights the asymmetry of information, where NW remains unaware of the true value of the information MC has provided.

MC: Lucien, if it were you, how would you shake him off?

He looks straight ahead and contemplates for a moment.

Lucien: If it were me, perhaps I wouldn't try to "shake him off." Instead, I would use the publicly available "trump cards" in my hand to gain more leverage.

Lucien: Currently, you possess absolute information about the "gate," while NW holds vast resources. The difference is that they have no knowledge of the core information you have provided, and they cannot verify it in the short term.

Lucien: But you can clearly know the value of the chips they exchange with you.

MC contemplates what information she can leverage and what she stands to gain.

I rest my chin on my hand and nod thoughtfully.

Indeed, NW possesses immeasurable resources and power. Their ability to develop a cure for blood diseases in a short time alone reflects their strength.

But what information can I throw out and what do I stand to gain?

I shake my head, attempting to cast away all the frustrations in my mind.

MC: If only every day could be like today, where he's too busy to bother with me.

Lucien: If that's your wish, it will likely come true soon.

Lucien looks at me with a half-smile, and during a red light, he firmly holds my hand.

Lucien: Based on my understanding of Silas, he won't invest his time in something without returns.

Lucien: If he can't obtain information from you, he may temporarily seek alternatives.

Lucien: And during this time, it's the best period for you to turn the tables.

In the following days, going to NW remains an unchanging routine.

Although the NW members I encounter are tight-lipped, I sense from the increasingly tense atmosphere that the data theft incident is not as calm as it appears.

What kind of files could make NW, who usually pays no attention to any threats, so nervous?

Whether affected or not, even Lucien's work hours are getting later. Sometimes, after waiting for a long time, all I receive is an apologetic phone call.

Lucien: I still have some data to process. I won't be going back today.

MC: ...Hey, then I'll go back on my own. Take care and get some rest!

Lucien acknowledged with a response, and a busy tone came from the other end of the phone. Feeling a bit disappointed, I stood up and walked alone towards the direction of the gate.

Just after the sudden rain in the afternoon, the dampness on the street prompted people to complain. I walked towards home when suddenly I received a text message.

MC: "The goods you previously ordered have arrived at the store. You are welcome to come and pick them up when you have time..."

I widen my eyes and then remember that I did order a pair of cufflinks for Lucien as a return gift for the dress*.

(T/N: Lucien gift her a dress last chapter~)

I look at the sky and realize it's not too late. After a moment of contemplation, I turn around and head towards the direction of the store. Soon, I arrive at the entrance.

Just as I was about to push open the store door, I hear a timid voice from behind.

??: ...Are you here to p-pick a gift, s-sister?*

This voice seems somewhat familiar. I turned around in confusion, and an unexpected figure appeared before me.

(T/N: From the way he talk, he’s Stutter(yes he literally called that in game even in EN) from the second part of S2 chapter 26, a Gray Rhino member)

[Chapter 45-8]

My heart tightened, and I instinctively took a step back.

MC: ...What are you doing here?

Since that GR "membership test," and even in the subsequent tasks where I openly assisted GR, I haven't crossed paths with the Stutter again.

He suddenly appears now. Could it be that GR is plotting something again?

I nervously scanned the surroundings, but Stutter didn't respond to my words and took a step forward.

Stutter: You've been getting off work late lately, I've been looking for you for a long time.

His expression revealed a sense of helplessness, and a chill ran down my spine. My voice also became more alert.

MC: ....Are you following me?

Facing my questioning, he casts me a timid glance.

Stutter: Don't worry, w-we don't have any intentions to harm you.

Stutter: Dealing w-with the harassment from NW by yourself must be difficult, right? The organization can h-help you.

…How did GR know about the things between me and NW and specifically send Stutter to find me?

It’s as if those lingering claws in the dark seemed to reach out toward me, and a strong sense of alarm surged within me. My instinct told me that I had to leave as soon as possible.

MC: I can handle it on my own. Please thank the organization for me. If there's nothing else, I'll take my leave.

He frowned slightly, a fleeting expression of gloom crossing his face.

Stutter: B-but this isn't a request for your opinion, it's an order, you know? If you refuse, they will m-make things difficult for me.

Stutter: H-how about it, sis-sister? C-come back with me and let's talk.

I caught a glimpse of several tall figures slowly emerging from the shadows of the alley. The man in front stood behind Stutter, glaring at me with a hostile expression.

Man: You can take your time to consider, but if you refuse, we'll have to resort to some coercive measures.

With his words, the figures from the shadows dispersed and surrounded me, blocking all possible escape routes.

In the tense atmosphere, suddenly, a small shard of ice glided across my field of vision, reflecting crystalline light under the street lamp.

Stutter: ..I-Is it snowing?

The man waves his hand impatiently, dispersing the falling ice crystals, and his sinister gaze fixates on me. He lifts his foot, ready to step forward.

I involuntarily take a step back. The next moment, however, I see a hint of confusion and astonishment flicker across his face as he lowers his head to look at his own wrist.

A vivid red color is slowly emerging from it, revealing a disturbing sight.

??: I think, she just made it very clear.

A gentle voice accompanied by steady footsteps emerged from the shadows at the alley entrance. The nearby individuals immediately showed signs of vigilance or timidity as they took a few steps back.

MC: …Lucien!

I widen my eyes in surprise and look at the slender figure walking towards me against the backlight with a mixture of delight and disbelief.

Fine particles of ice linger in the June air, and the gradually dropping temperature causes an involuntary shiver. The man adjusts his wrist and looks up at Lucien.

Man: Professor Lucien, we met again.

Lucien hears the words but doesn't turn around. He walks up to me and carefully examines me for a moment, as if confirming something. His shoulders seem to relax imperceptibly.

The man, seeing that Lucien ignores him, becomes slightly more impatient and takes another step forward.

Man: Haven't we already discussed this last time? Professor Lucien should also be aware of our intentions.

Man: There is no ill intention towards Miss MC. It's just that we have a plan that requires her involvement-

Lucien: [sharply] When did I ever talk to you?

Lucien turns around and gives the men a faint warning glance.

Lucien: My impression of you exists solely from a few days ago when some short-sighted individuals blocked my way.

Lucien: And now you appear before her again. I can only conclude that GR's people not only lack foresight but also fail to comprehend human language.

Man: …

Without giving me a chance to fully grasp the meaning behind his words, Lucien’s cold tone carries a hint of anger. He swiftly grabs my wrist, indicating his intention to take me away.

Man: Isn't Professor Lucien's words a bit too rude?

With the sound of his words, the scattered figures around us regrouped and closed off the last gap in front of us.

Lucien shields my figure, his stern gaze sweeping across the faces in front of us, then he speaks in a low voice.

Lucien: [scoff] Then let's talk in a way that you can understand.

The slowly drifting ice crystals in the air suddenly become denser, and it feels like the temperature has dropped significantly.

The people nearby exchanged glances and with a fierce expression, they charged towards us. Instinctively, I froze for a moment, seeing the icy gleam of their daggers and short swords in their hands.

However, Lucien remains standing in place and simply moves his wrist slightly.

In the next second, frost with a chilling aura quickly climbs up their legs, freezing them to the waist in an instant.

??: What’s going on?!

Amidst the chaotic cries, as the first person gets frozen, the scene plunges into disarray. In the midst of the commotion, Lucien turns back and grabs my hand, whispering in a low voice.

Lucien: [in a tender tone, a complete 180 from his previous tone] Let’s go.

I quickly follow behind him, but I see a few people who have not yet been affected stubbornly blocking our path.

Lucien's brow furrows almost imperceptibly, and his demeanor appears somewhat icy. The swirling ice shards become denser, but these people persistently engage in the struggle, like dogs unwilling to let go.

I struggle to evade the attack from one of them, and in my peripheral vision, I suddenly see the leader of the group charging toward Lucien. The staff in his hand is raised high.

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MC: [SCREAMING] LUCIEN!!

Lucien swiftly turns his head and firmly grasps the man's tightly clenched hand.

The surrounding people let out a few low cheers upon seeing this, seemingly eager to take advantage of the situation and find an opportunity to launch a sneak attack.

I nervously scanned my surroundings and saw Lucien coldly clench his hands, delivering a powerful and hard punch to the man's abdomen.

MC: …!

This punch seemed extremely powerful as the man let out a scream of pain and staggered a couple of steps back before falling to the ground, veins bulging on his forehead.

Lucien's gaze coldly lifts from the writhing body on the ground, and he looks toward the other people who are hesitant.

Lucien: His ribs are already broken.

Lucien: If it causes mediastinal compression of the diaphragm, asphyxiation will occur within a few minutes.

Lucien: You now have a choice. You can either take him to seek urgent medical attention, or you can surrender more lives into my hands.

Lucien casually moved his wrist, and a faint icy aura wrapped around him, emitting a threatening chill.

I hold my breath, and the streets momentarily fall into silence. Only restrained wails of pain reverberate among everyone, sending a shiver down their spines.

In the tense atmosphere on the verge of eruption, the figure hidden behind everyone finally speaks in a low voice.

Stutter: …L-let's go!

The crowded damp streets are filled with a faint smell of blood. My mind goes blank for a moment.

In my impression, Lucien rarely loses his composure like this. Rather than a counterattack, his actions just now seemed more like a hidden venting of his emotions.

MC: You…

Is it because there have been too many troubling matters recently, or is it due to the instinctive reaction triggered by my sudden scream?

But in the end, all the words I wanted to ask retreated in the face of the fresh blood on his fingers.

Noticing my gaze, he parted his lips, as if wanting to say something.

Lucien: .....MC.

All my doubts were replaced by concern. I carefully avoided the still bleeding area and gently grasped Lucien's hands.

MC: L-let’s go home first.

[Chapter 45-9]

Upon returning home, I immediately located the first aid kit.

MC: Bandages, antiseptic solution, and anti-inflammatory medication... Fortunately, I had them all.

As I hurry out with the first aid kit, I see Lucien sitting on the sofa with his sleeves slightly rolled up, his eyes half-closed, seemingly lost in thought.

For some reason, I sense a hint of bewilderment from him. When he sees me coming out, he reveals a gentle smile.

I sit down silently beside him, and carefully disinfect each wound with iodine, and I gently wrap them with bandages.

On his slender fingers, there was a long and horrifying scar. My heart aches, and I become more gentle with my actions.

Lucien looks at me, his gaze lowered, and he remains silent. I break the silence first.

MC: Lucien, are you okay?

He blinked his eyes, and his uninjured fingers gently hooked around my hand.

Lucien: If you're referring to the wounds, I can no longer feel the pain.

MC: I'm not just asking about the wounds.

Lucien: …

MC: [worriedly] Did… your experiment go smoothly today? Did anything happen with NW?

Lucien remains silent, his eyes filled with a flicker of darkness. After a moment, he speaks softly.

Lucien: [softly] The experiment went smoothly, and there haven't been any significant incidents in NW.

He paused for a moment.

Lucien: MC, I know what you want to ask.

Lucien: [quietly]...But now, it seems difficult for me to give a definite answer.

He looked at his palm, with a hint of subtle confusion in his eyes.

Lucien: [with a hint of confusion in his tone, but his voice is still warm] Earlier, I did have another way to take you away from here.

Lucien: But I chose the most reckless, yet simplest way.

Lucien: I didn't expect that I, too, couldn't help but succumb to instinct in this kind of emotional situation.

His lowered eyelashes cast a shallow shadow under his eyes, rising and falling rhythmically with his breath. I blinked in surprise.

I rarely hear Lucien admit so candidly that he can be impulsive and reckless.

He can meticulously deduce any difficult formula and find the truth in problems that no one else can solve.

But at this moment, there simply isn't a more suitable reason to explain everything that happened before.

Seeing that I didn't say anything, Lucien gently hooked his finger with mine.

Lucien: Do you find it unbelievable? [chuckle softly] I also find it somewhat incredible.

Lucien said it naturally, but I always feel there's something strangely odd about it, yet I can't quite figure it out at the moment.

He looks at me, changing the topic.

Lucien: Besides today, have they been bothering you recently?

I shake my head.

MC: I don't know what they want from me. Based on their character, they probably won't give up easily.

MC: It seems like the after-work activities we planned a few days ago will have to be postponed.

Lucien: It does sound a bit disappointing. However, I have some good news here that might make this frowning lady a little happier.

I raise my head and meet Lucien's slightly curved lips.

Lucien: Starting from tomorrow, we don't have to go to NW anymore.

MC: Really? Has Silas finally decided to stop tormenting me?

Seeing my incredulous expression, Lucien smiled and gently patted my head, giving me an affirming look.

Lucien: [chuckle] Mm, he's too busy to care about us now. Because for the current NW, there are more pressing matters to handle.

Lucien: Although this timing is a bit sooner than I anticipated, but... for us, tomorrow is a day worth celebrating, isn't it?

MC: Tomorrow... Oh, right, tomorrow morning I have a medical examination. After it's done, I'll come to the Bioscience Research Center to have lunch with you, okay?

Lucien: [teasingly] Well, it looks like I'll have to finish my work early tomorrow and have a "celebratory freedom meal" with MC.

In the underground interrogation room of NW, Silas sits in front of a restrained researcher behind a transparent observation window. The researcher's white lab coat is stained with grime and drags weakly on the floor.

The NW researcher denies voluntarily disclosing any information about NW to anyone. Inside the observation window, an NW team member submits another report, a repetitive action they have done countless times recently. The team member reports that the results remain consistent with the previous twenty-three times and show no signs of deception.

Based on the traumatic marks left in the researcher's brain, it is likely they were injected with the discontinued ETL-147. Silas coldly orders a continued investigation into everyone who has had contact with the researcher.

[Chapter 45-11]

MC is unable to sleep due to her worries about GR and Lucien. The next morning, she almost missed the last bus to the medical center for her check-up. Weirdly, during the check up the nurse handles the procedure roughly, causing more pain than usual, but MC brushes it off as maybe it's because she's almost late.

After the blood draw, MC waits for the blood to clot and feels drowsy, possibly due to insomnia, fatigue, and an empty stomach.

MC briefly dozes off in the chair. When she wakes up, the blood at the needle mark has coagulated. Just as she's about to leave the medical center, she receives a phone call.

Store owner: Miss MC, when will you come to pick up your cufflinks?

MC: ...I'm sorry! I was supposed to come that day, but things got delayed.

I glance at the time, Lucien should be almost done with his work, right?

MC: How about... you arrange for a courier service with cash on delivery? The address should be Lucien's Bioscience Research Center, and the phone number is mine. Thank you.

Store owner: Alright, I'll arrange for a courier right away.

I arrive at the Bioscience Research Center and wait for over half an hour. The delivery person finally arrives, albeit late.

MC: The gift shop shouldn't be far from here. Why did it take so long for the delivery?

Courier: I'm not just delivering your order. Hurry up and sign for it.

Impatiently, the delivery person hands me the gift box and quickly rides away before I can even confirm the delivery.

What an attitude! I pout slightly, feeling a bit annoyed, but my dissatisfaction fades away when I see the message on the gift box.

The mysterious gift box is adorned with a light purple ribbon, and on it is the personalized message I requested from the store.

"Amethyst, Your purple hue, Is not just you."

MC: I wonder if he will like it.

I pick up the package and stride towards the laboratory building, ready to give Lucien a surprise.

I hold the gift and arrive at the entrance of the laboratory. I peer inside through the window.

The sharp scent of reagents greets me as I approach, and through the transparent floor-to-ceiling glass, I see Lucien holding a stack of papers, deeply engrossed in his research.

I take a deep breath and quietly push the door open just a crack, tiptoeing my way into the inner room.

At the same time, I carefully untie the black velvet ribbon of the gift box, preparing for the perfect moment to shout "Surprise" after opening the door.

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Suddenly, a sharp and slender object forcefully broke into my field of vision-

The cufflinks vanished without a trace, replaced by a syringe lying quietly inside the gift box.

In an instant, a slight sensation of pain, like a needle's tip, enters my mind, as if injecting something that shouldn't exist.

Syringe, Lucien...syringe.

The tingling and numbing pain spread throughout my body as if following my bloodstream, pulling my entire consciousness, and forcing me to move forward.

"Hold the syringe, walk up to Lucien, and then…"

...Why would this inexplicable thought pop into my mind?

My head is buzzing, and mechanically I grip the syringe in my hand. The icy liquid inside sways, emitting a deadly aura.

What the hell is this syringe? What's happening to me? Why can't I control my body?!

I struggle to break free from this state, and suddenly a familiar warmth surges in my chest.

However, this surge of chaotic energy only brings half clarity to my mind. Soon enough, my actions once again become uncontrollable.

With slightly stiffened steps, a dull sound resonates on the ground as I slowly push open the door.

Lucien has his back turned to me, still immersed in the midst of experimental equipment, but he smiles slightly upon hearing my footsteps.

Lucien: [chuckle] You're here?

Lucien: Maybe MC will have to wait a little longer. I have a bit of work to finish up, but I'll be done soon.

Lucien, turn around!

Please turn around quickly!

If you just turn around, you will definitely notice something unusual about me. Turn around, so you can avoid my syringe!

I'm screaming in my mind, but my throat feels like it's being constricted, unable to produce even half a syllable.

I walk up behind him, my fingers touching his clothes, climbing upward inch by inch.

Lucien: [chuckle] Why are you suddenly acting so coquettish?

The overly intimate proximity deepens the smile at the corner of Lucien's lips. He straightens up, turns around, and looks at me.

Lucien: Well, then I'll call it a day-

His words trailed off.

The faint sound of the needle piercing his skin amplifies infinitely in my ears.

The liquid in the transparent syringe enters Lucien's body bit by bit as I push it with my fingertips, all while watching helplessly.

Lucien's eyes widen slightly, a trace of astonishment appearing on his face.

MC: Lu…cien….

A single sentence is fragmented into countless pauses and finally squeezes out from between my lips.

The forces of self-awareness and control continuously tug at each other, overwhelming waves of immense fear and despair flooding my consciousness, creating a torrential tsunami within me.

In an instant, the power of the CORE completely breaks through the cage and surges forth from my chest.

MC: ...Don't!!

Finally, I forcefully throw away the syringe, and a few burning droplets of blood splatter from Lucien's neck, landing on my cheek.

Lucien: MC…

The sharp ringing in my ears drowns out Lucien's moving lips, and in this moment, I can only hear my own frantic breath and the cries laced with sobs.

MC: I'm sorry... I'm sorry…

Lucien's gaze lingers on my face, his pupils brewing with complex emotions. He opens his mouth once again, and the fingers that were caressing my hand lift upward.

I only feel something lightly pinching my neck, neither too light nor too heavy, and darkness suddenly embraces me out of nowhere.

I don't know how long it had been, but I groggily opened my eyes to find the laboratory ceiling in front of me.

The lingering pain in my chest made it difficult to breathe. In a daze, the events that had just occurred flooded my mind all at once.

The icy needle, Lucien's bewildered expression, my trembling hands…

I abruptly sat up, wanting to check on Lucien's condition. But as soon as I do, everything starts spinning around me.

Lucien: [gently] The effect of the medicine must have just worn off. It's better for you to lie down for a while longer.

The familiar voice fell upon my ears. In my blurred vision, I can see Lucien sitting at the bedside, holding a cup of steaming tea in his hands.

He places the pillow behind me and gives me a slight smile. Everything seems normal as usual, but I can't help but notice the clearly visible blue veins on his neck.

A wave of sourness brushes past the tip of my heart, I grab his hand, my voice trembling as I speak.

MC: Lucien, I…

MC: Just now, I didn't mean to... How are you feeling now? Is there anything uncomfortable? What was in that syringe…

Lucien: [chuckles softly, then speaks in a comforting tone] I'm fine.

Lucien interrupts my incoherent questions, his thumb soothingly caressing the back of my hand, offering silent comfort.

I take the teacup he hands me, feeling warmth instantly spreading from my palm, but the unease and confusion in my heart still intertwine.

MC: I don't know why, but earlier I suddenly felt like my body and consciousness weren't my own.

MC: I wanted to warn you to be careful, I didn't want to come to you, but I couldn't do anything...

I stare straight at the teacup in my hands, the steam making my eyes feel hot, and the tea seems to sway as my hands tremble.

Suddenly, my chin is gently lifted, and my gaze is forced to meet the person's face in front of me.

Lucien: [tenderly] MC, look at me.

Lucien: During your rest, I have conducted a comprehensive body examination for both of us. The results show that most of the ETL-147 in the injection have been metabolized and eliminated from our bodies.

Lucien: The remaining dosage is insufficient to have any further impact on our bodies. Therefore, I can assure you that both you and I are safe now.

Unfamiliar words entered my ears, and I grasped onto his sleeve in confusion.

MC: ...What is ETL-147?

Lucien: It's a mind-control drug, but its effects are not stable enough. After one use, its components become inactive.

Lucien: Therefore, it was eliminated after the research was successful.

MC: You mean I was manipulated by it just now? .......But why would there be such a drug in my body?

Lucien ponders for a moment.

Lucien: Have you had any injections these past few days?

I blink, suddenly remembering something—

MC: ......I went for a medical examination this morning. When they drew blood, I felt unusually tired and even dozed off.

Lucien's gaze flickers slightly, and the darkness in his eyes reflects my pale face. I hesitate before speaking.

MC: ...But if the drug was injected back then, why is it only taking effect now?

Lucien: This drug does not have an immediate effect. It only activates once it is triggered, affecting a specific part of the human nervous system.

Lucien: The suggestions in your mind were probably triggered by accessing the associative medium, which then initiated the effects.

I stare at Lucien, trying to digest his words, and slowly, the jumble of thoughts starts to become clearer.

MC: ...It's the syringe.

MC: It's all my fault. If only I had noticed the abnormalities earlier…

With a barely audible sigh, a familiar scent surrounds me from behind.

Lucien: [whispers gently] It's not your fault for getting hurt. So, don't wear that expression on your face.

Lucien: And... this drug can't affect me.

Lucien smiles softly, his voice as gentle as the raindrops in spring.

Lucien: ETL-147 is a drug that I supervised the development of.

Lucien: For my own creations, especially something as dangerous as this, I always take precautions.

Lucien: For instance, making sure I have antibodies against it.

(T/N: fun medical fact did you know that generally you can only develop antibodies to substance after exposure to that very same substance- yep, so he uh, might use that drug before, experimenting on himself, perhaps 🤡)

Lucien: The testing in a laboratory environment doesn't pose significant risks. However, what I'm more interested in is how you managed to break free from its control while it was still effective.

Lucien: According to my experimental findings, a similar situation has never occurred so far.

MC: I can't say for sure, but at that time, it felt like there were two forces pulling at my body. Could it be…

Lucien narrows his eyes thoughtfully.

Lucien: Hmm, it seems that CORE has a certain level of inhibition against this drug.

MC: But I still don't understand, who exactly is the other party?

Lucien: Do you remember the incident a few days ago when GR approached you?

Lucien's words make me suddenly realize the key to the situation.

MC: Why would GR go through all this trouble? What is their ultimate goal?

Lucien: I believe the answer should be here.

Lucien opens a message in front of me, and it displays a series of unknown character combinations.

"NzBiDTEe&Tgp."

[Chapter 45-12]

MC: ...Is this gibberish?

I blink in confusion, before hearing Lucien speaks.

Lucien: In terms of character length, it matches the password set for the NW archive database.

MC: But if they already obtained the password, why don't they take action themselves instead of going through all this trouble?

Lucien: After the last intrusion into the archive room, Silas strengthened the control over it.

I was taken aback, feeling like many things were connecting.

Since they couldn't control the internal personnel of NW, they thought of the only person who could still access the NW archive room.

Lucien goes in and out of the NW laboratory all day, making it almost impossible to find an opportunity to get to him. In comparison, it would be much easier to manipulate me and then get close to Lucien.

MC: Could it be that their ultimate goal is to control you to enter the database?

Lucien: They probably used the same method to manipulate that NW researcher before to steal information, but they failed.

Lucien: Under the effect of this kind of suggestion, the controlled person can only act according to the literal meaning of the suggestion, without the ability to think or adapt to the situation.

Lucien looked at the text message, a hint of darkness crossing his eyes.

Lucien: I suspect that the hint they intend to give me through you is some action compelling enough to make me willingly take risks for them.

Lucien: For example, threatening my own safety or attacking someone important to me.

(Basically, the person who use the mind control drug won't make him instantly do their bidding because it's shitty at giving complicated tasks that require people to think or adapt. Lucien deduces that the drug's potential action triggers could involve threatening his own safety or that of MC. By threatening their safety, it could compel him to comply with the manipulator's demands.)

MC: That is outrageous!

I clench my fingers tightly and look closely at the text message on the screen. Besides the password, there's also an address written on it.

MC: So, is this address meant for you to deliver something after you obtain it?

Lucien: The address corresponds to a factory in the outskirts. As a rendezvous point, it is indeed quite suitable.

Every step is interconnected as if an invisible hand is pulling people deeper into the trap. I take a deep breath and suddenly realize something.

MC: On that note, if you can't be controlled, can't we just not go and let GR end up empty-handed?

Lucien: No, quite the opposite. We can't let them "leave empty-handed."

Lucien's broad palm holds onto my fingertips, gently caressing them.

Lucien: I have a plan, but... it requires you to "sacrifice" a little and cooperate with me.

Lucien then goes to NW. The NW team member questions him about reporting his entry into the A-level database to Silas.

Lucien assures them that he will inform Silas after retrieving the data and suggests the team member can report on his behalf.

After a moment of hesitation, the team member agrees to report to Silas, allowing Lucien to proceed into the database.

Lucien navigates through the vast space filled with metal cabinets, accessing a hidden document using the password from the text message, and carefully examining the document, confirming something before putting it back in the cabinet.

But then he also accesses another document using a password that's different from the one on the text message and quickly takes out a file from it before he gets interrupted by the arrival of someone familiar.

Lucien: Officer Silas arrived even faster than I anticipated.

Silas glances at the documents in Lucien's hands with a smile that seems both genuine and ambiguous.

Silas: ETL-147? I don't recall Professor Lucien having any recent work that would require this document.

Lucien: Indeed, there is no relevance to the experiment. But what if I intend to use it to lure out the mastermind behind the failed theft?

The air fell into silence in an instant. After a brief moment of eye contact with Lucien, Silas spoke up.

Silas: You should know that these documents should not be seen by outsiders.

Lucien: Of course. So, no one else will see them.

Under the pale fluorescent light, the obscure gazes of the two individuals intersected. After a moment, Silas reveals a profound smile.

Silas: I certainly trust Professor Lucien, but you should also know that I am always cautious.

Silas: Until Professor Lucien has made his "findings," CORE will be temporarily protected by NW.

Lucien's smile at the corner of his lips remains unchanged, and there is a slight coldness in his eyes.

Lucien: Please, go ahead. However, I believe this "temporary" arrangement won't last for long.

Silas: That's even better. I look forward to your "good news."

I glanced at my phone once again—20 minutes had passed since Lucien entered NW.

MC: I wonder if everything is going smoothly…

Just as I'm feeling anxious, the driver's side door suddenly opens.

Lucien: Everything went smoothly. I managed to bring out the documents without any trouble.

Lucien spoke with a smile, raising the documents in his hand, and I couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief. It seems like he always manages to guess what I'm thinking ahead of time.

Behind him stood two NW team members in uniforms.

NW Team Member: Miss MC, Professor Lucien has urgent matters to attend to. For the time being, NW will ensure your safety. Please come with us.

I glance at Lucien and see him nod in agreement, so I step out of the car.

As we pass each other, I can hear his voice, it's soft but resolute.

Lucien: [in a soft but firm tone] I'll return to you soon.

The moonlight quietly penetrates through the glass, casting a solemn white reflection on the ground. The sound of footsteps shatters the silence as Lucien calmly enters the deserted factory.

As soon as his figure comes to a stop, the iron door behind him closes abruptly, revealing the outlines of several figures in the darkness.

??: Professor Lucien truly lives up to his reputation. Efficiency at its finest.

With the words spoken, the face of the other party finally becomes exposed in the moonlight.

Lucien: The things you requested have been brought.

Seeing the sealed document bag in Lucien's hand, a hint of joy flickers in the man's eyes.

Lucien looks at the other man with a cold expression as he eagerly approaches. Just as his fingers are about to touch the documents, Lucien suddenly pulls back his hand.

Lucien: Since it's an exchange of information, there should be equal conditions. I want to know what associative medium that triggers me.

Upon hearing Lucien's words, the man's expression freezes coldly for a moment, and then he stares straight at Lucien, his tone filled with threats.

Man: It seems like you haven't realized your situation yet, Professor Lucien. This is not a classroom, and there is no time for you to ask questions freely.

Man: I'll say it once, give me the information.

Lucien silently locks eyes with those eyes filled with hatred for a moment, then he slightly raises his hand. The document falls into the hands of the other person.

Man: Very well, then I'll trouble you, Professor Lucien, to wait for a while until we verify the goods. You, take it and deliver it to that person.

One of the subordinates takes the documents from the man's hand and hurriedly leaves. Lucien indifferently shifts his gaze and looks towards a silent shadow in the corner.

Soon, the person who left hastily returns and whispers something in the man's ear. His face darkens.

Man: How dare you deceived us with fake information!?

Lucien: I don't understand what you mean. Isn't this the confidential information of ETL-147?

Man: Stop playing dumb and hand over the document that contains the information on the Vortex files!

Lucien: Vortex…?

Lucien's eyes flicker with surprise, but he remains motionless in his position. The man raises his hand threateningly, touching the cufflinks.

Man: Since you're not cooperating, there's no need to keep you around.

Lucien seems to lower his gaze absentmindedly, and a sharp ice spike forms in his hand, slowly pressing against his own neck.

In the next second, he suddenly changes direction and thrusts the ice spike fiercely towards the man. The man's pupils contract, narrowly avoiding the ice spike grazing his temple.

(From the man’s word. Lucien deduced that the mind control drug's task for him was to make him kill himself upon seeing the associative medium. What the other party didn't anticipate is that Lucien is already "immune" to the drug and was pretending to be affected by it. He used this "information asymmetry" to learn what's action can be triggered, the associative medium and caught the man off-guard. It turns out that the associative medium is actually the cufflinks that MC gave to Lucien, which were stolen by the man. But there's more to it-)

Lucien: The action trigger... So this is my associative medium.

Lucien speaks thoughtfully, his lips slightly curling, but there is no trace of a smile in his eyes.

Lucien: It seems that no matter the situation, I always know what I want.*

(-actually, Lucien has already deduced that the cufflinks(or whatever MC actual gift can be) are his associative medium. In fact, besides doing his plan, he also has a selfish motive for coming to the factory, which is to retrieve MC's actual gift. He won't let something so precious to him just get stolen and being used to manipulate him like that-)

In the next moment, dozens of shadowy figures emerge from the darkness, their gun muzzles pointing at Lucien. The man takes two steps back and shouts repeatedly.

Man: Fire!

Countless bullets fly toward the slender figure in the center, but they all hit the ground and walls, sparking tiny sparks.

Lucien seems to disappear into thin air, leaving no trace behind.

??: ...Damn it, he was right here--

Man: Don't panic! Search!

The man gasps for breath, snatches a gun, and scans the area in frustration for any sign of Lucien. However, in the next moment, he freezes in place.

Lucien stands behind him, a thin silver syringe accurately piercing the man’s neck.

[Chapter 45-13]

The syringe pushed deeper, silencing the words the man wanted to say, forcefully sealing his mouth shut.

Lucien: [in a mocking tone] Why so surprised? I think you should know what this is.

The corners of Lucien's lips curl up with a sinister smile, illuminated by the pale moonlight.

Lucien: It's the stock solution of ETL-147.

Lucien: The concentration of ETL-147 in this solution is 14 times higher than what you intended to inject me with. And, of course... It also has stronger side effects.

Lucien: Within five seconds of being injected, it will make a person's limbs feel weak, their heart rate sluggish, and shortly after, it becomes difficult to focus their attention.*

(he knows the side effect so well, it's as if he tested the stock solution on himself before- and if he really did, this could potentially explain his immunity to the drug given by GR, as he might have developed a tolerance or immunity after previous exposures to its highest dosage. Besides for research purposes, Lucien takes the notion of "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" quite literally lmao)

The man's pupils dart around, and what frightens him even more is that the subordinates who surround them moments ago are all collapsing, at some point, without his knowledge.

It feels as if an invisible force of gravity is pressing them firmly to the ground, rendering them immobile.

Lucien slowly pushes the syringe, and the transparent liquid flows through the needle's tip.

Lucien: Next, the drug will travel through your veins to reach your heart, then enter your brain.

Lucien: It will then interfere with your nervous system, gradually stripping your brain of control over your body.

It is as if the words are an irresistible persuasion, as the man's body begins to tremble uncontrollably, experiencing the very symptoms described by Lucien.

Lucien: The dosage of this drug is crucial. If the dosage is too low, it won't affect the brain.

Lucien: However, if used in excessive amounts, it can cause muscle spasms, degeneration of brain neurons, and even brain death-

Gradually, the man feels as if he is sinking into deep water, weighed down and unable to move…

Man: You, what do you want to know…

Lucien: You just confirmed the authenticity of that document with someone, didn't you? Who was that person?

Man: I don't know. He's a high-ranking person whom I haven't met before, but I... I can help you contact him!

The man dials a number on the phone, trembling. After a while, a hoarse voice comes through the receiver.

??: How did things go?

Lucien: For you, I'm afraid it's a mess.

There is silence on the other end of the phone for a few seconds.

??: Professor Lucien, I underestimated you.

Lucien: The information from NW's A-level password database, it was you who sent it to me, right? I'm curious to know how GR's people got hold of that information.

??: If you're curious about the secret behind this encrypted message, I will contact you again. Because just like Silas, I appreciate your abilities.

Lucien's lips twitch slightly, but he remains silent.

??: Consider it. I hope we can have a pleasant conversation in the future.

In the instant the call ended, the outer gate of the factory was forcefully pushed open.

The fully armed NW operatives surge in. Lucien half-squints his eyes, gazing at Silas who stands at the entrance.

Silas: Well done, Professor Lucien. I'm relieved to see you unharmed.

Lucien: Thank you. Commander Silas arrived just in time.

Silas walks up to Lucien, and a glint of determination flickers in his slightly raised eyes.

Silas: By the way, is there anything Professor Lucien needs to explain to me? I remember you assuring me that the ETL-147 data wouldn't be seen by anyone else.

Lucien: Instead of questioning me, Commander Silas, perhaps you should consider whether there might be any "traitors" within NW.

The air fall silent for a moment, and a glint of coldness seems to flash in Silas' eyes, but in an instant, he regains his composure.

NW Team member: Report, sir. The warehouse has been fully searched, and a total of 24 individuals have been found. The target person is not among them, and we are expanding the search area.

Silas: Conduct a comprehensive investigation of everyone's communication records.

NW Team member: Yes sir!

After a brief acknowledgment, the NW team members begin executing Silas' orders swiftly and efficiently.

Lucien: [chuckle] It seems that Commander Silas's intended target has managed to elude capture this time.

Facing Lucien's calm and casual demeanor, Silas looks at him with a meaningful gaze.

Silas: Professor Lucien, do you have any information about the person I'm looking for?

Lucien: If you couldn't find them despite all your efforts, how could I possibly have any information?

Silas's scrutinizing gaze landed on Lucien, as the corners of his mouth curved into a smirk that seemed both like a smile and not quite a smile.

Silas: You should know that NW's data is accessed based on hierarchy. That day in the archive room, you looked at materials other than ETL-147, didn't you?

He said, patting Lucien's shoulder lightly.

Silas: I appreciate talent, but rules are rules.

Silas: I want to see how you intend to bear the consequences of this.

Lucien casually lifts Silas's hand, his deep eyes flickering with a cold and stern light.

Lucien: Of course, I am sincere. I just want to see if Commander Silas is willing to gamble with NW's future.

The footsteps outside the door echoed for I don't know how many times, but they gradually faded away after I stood up.

The anticipation in my heart once again falls flat, and I reluctantly sit back in my seat, sighing.

The only thing I can do now is wait.

Even though I am fully aware that Lucien will surely turn the situation around, the longer I wait, the harder it is for my heart to contain its anxiety.

Thud... Thud... There's another round of footsteps outside the door.

Calm and steady, yet I can sense a smallest wisp of anxiety mixed within.

MC: ….!

The footsteps come to a steady halt at the door.

My chest can't contain its excitement and I suddenly stand up, taking large strides towards the door.

As I reach out to grasp the doorknob, it is already being pushed open by someone.

MC: Lucien!!

I hadn't had a chance to take a close look at him before I was embraced in a warm hug.

His presence fills the air, overwhelming and comforting. In his embrace, all the unsettled and anxious emotions in my heart seem to be soothed in an instant.

The arm around my back tightens slightly, and I lower my head in his embrace. For a while, neither of us says a word.

Out of the corner of my eye, I notice the slightly wrinkled cuffs of his sleeves, and I realize that two buttons are missing for some unknown reason.

After a long while, I hear a relieved exhale from above me.

Lucien: [in a very soft and tender voice] Sorry, I kept you waiting for so long.

Lucien: I'm here to take you home now.

[Chapter 45-15]

On the way back home, Lucien briefly described his solo trip to the factory.

However, upon learning that the mastermind behind it all hasn't been truly apprehended, I couldn't help but feel a shiver in my heart.

Noticing my concerned expression, Lucien speaks to reassure me.

Lucien: [chuckle] Don't worry, with Officer Silas' capabilities, it shouldn't take long to find the person on the other end of the phone.

I shake my head and open my mouth to speak hesitantly.

MC: But I still can't figure out why GR's people went to such great lengths to obtain NW's information.

MC: I always feel like this is very different from their usual style of operation…

Lucien: Regardless of the reasons behind it, GR has now gotten involved with the wrong people.

Lucien: In the coming days, the shadow side of Loveland City may not be very peaceful.

The gleaming lights shimmer in his eyes, creating small ripples.

I watch Lucien silently, understanding what he means. With Silas's style, he would never leave behind any potential threat to NW.

Once NW and GR collide, it will undoubtedly trigger unprecedented turmoil, and the future remains uncertain.

I purse my lips, observing the outline of his figure traced by the neon lights outside the window. These days feel like a continuously rolling film, moving forward without pause.

Lucien: [whisper softly] Are you tired?

Noticing the weariness in my eyes, Lucien lowered his voice.

MC: Indeed, I am a bit tired.

Lucien: Should I continue with the unfinished story from last time?

MC: The story about the falcon and the pigeon?

Lucien: Yes, if I recall correctly, I left a small suspense at the end.

Lucien's voice quietly falls into my ears, bringing a warm breath. I squinted my eyes and nodded.

Lucien: Back then, I mentioned that there was another possibility to the story. But I didn't reveal the ending of that possibility.

MC: I think... the pigeon has the right to remain silent, as it is a way for self-protection.

I meet Lucien's soft gaze and move my lips.

MC: But if the pigeon wants to shoulder the responsibility of resolving crises and saving the world, it must accept the conditions set by the falcon.

Lucien: This question indeed tends to perplex people, but you've overlooked a crucial factor.

Lucien: [tenderly] The falcon has never been the determining factor in shaping the course of the world.

His words caused my heart to skip a beat, the distant speeding lights cast a long shadow of Lucien, tightly overlapping with my own shadow.

Lucien: From the moment the falcon revealed the truth about the disease to the pigeon, the initiative has been in the pigeon's hands.

Lucien: The only thing the falcon can do is to continue posing a threat to the pigeon, but it cannot prevent the pigeon from saving the world.

Lucien: Therefore, in the alternative ending of the story, the pigeon not only saves the world but also avoids the falcon's attacks.

Lucien: Everyone continues to live their lives in peace and prosperity.

MC: So, both endings of the story are the same, aren't they?

Lucien: [firmly] There has always been only one ending for this world.

(Because no matter what choices she makes, the only ending that he believes in is for the pigeon/MC to save the world 🥺)

Lucien seems to chuckle lightly and naturally opens his palm towards me, revealing two purple cufflinks.

I widen my eyes, feeling a flutter of excitement in my chest.

MC: These cufflinks were previously switched by GR's people, and I thought I would never find them again! Where did you find them?

Lucien: At the factory where GR arranged to meet me.

Lucien: The packaging of the box was the same as the one you brought to the laboratory that day, so I guessed it might be the gift you actually wanted to give me.

Lucien: However, I apologize because I opened the box in advance to confirm what was inside.

I shake my head repeatedly, cherishing the two cufflinks in my hand that were lost and now found.

The streetlights on the street reflect scattered light and shadows on the amethyst cufflinks, faintly resembling fireflies flickering in my palm.

They are just like Lucien's eyes when he deeply looks at me.

Lucien: [whisper] Can you help me put them on?

MC: Sure.

I carefully fasten the two cufflinks to Lucien's cuffs, my heart feeling full in the process.

MC: They suit you perfectly, don't they?

Lucien: Of course, I have great faith in your judgment. Moreover, since they were chosen by you, they naturally carry the thoughts you placed upon them.

Lucien: And for me, they will become important companions in the time to come.

Hearing him say that, I couldn't help but understand and perceive the underlying meaning in his words.

MC: Will you be busy in the coming days?

Lucien: Um. The experiment has entered a new phase, and NW will expand the scope of the trial in the coming days.

Lucien: So for the next period of time, I probably won't be able to leave work with you.

MC: ...Are you saying that we won't be able to see each other for a while?

Lucien: I'm afraid so. Right now, there are more pressing matters and "guests" to handle, so Silas probably won't insist on inviting you over anymore.

My thoughts suddenly become chaotic without any warning, and only the sound of my heartbeat in my chest became clearer.

MC: But this issue will inevitably resurface someday, right?

Lucien nods without confirming or denying.

Lucien: You can consider this time as a period of preparation for yourself. The next time you see him, it might be the moment when the pigeon has to make a decision with the falcon.

Lucien: But I believe the pigeon will find her own way.

A few days later, as I’m heading home after finishing a day's work, my phone vibrates twice.

Lucien’s message: "I captured a cloud that looks like a little white bunny during my break and I want to share it with you."

I open the attached photo of the cloud and smile faintly.

Since the day we part at NW, the number of times that Lucien returns home has decreased significantly.

Although it is his usual research routine, I still find it difficult to completely ease my mind when I think about the cold NW base.

Fortunately, every now and then, I receive messages from him, sometimes just a short text.

But in those fleeting moments of connection, it feels as if we are bridging the distance between us.

I smile and also take a photo of a butterfly-like cloud in the sky.

MC’s message: "The one I see looks a bit like a butterfly~"

I just sent the message when my phone buzzes with a new notification, but this time it isn't from him.

(Yes it’s done LOL, i usually put rambles but i think i already said enough in live comments (?) This chapter in a nutshell is a setting up for something big in future. Personally I like it because it’s not everyday we see how he works behind the curtain, and despite it can’t be called fluff bc obviously there’s some bits of angst, i think this chapter is rather sweet.)

#YES PUNCH HIM LUCIEN #THIS MAIN STORY FEELS MORE LIKE DATE SOBS #mlqc lucien #mr love queen's choice #mlqc #mlqc spoiler #mlqc translations #love and producer #mr. love queen's choice #mr love lucien #xu mo #mlqc xu mo

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