Warning: The following date contains SPOILERS not yet released for EN/global server. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!
I apologize in advance if some parts of the translation seemed rush or don’t make sense and any mistakes. There are some bad storms coming my way and I wanted to get this done if I end up losing power/Internet connection because of it. But also, I wanted to have this uploaded before Kiro’s bday arrives 4/09 since I’ll be busy with work for the rest of this week and next week.
There is a R&S section included with the bday event and the lovely @cheesy09 will be translating it so look forward to that 😊 The timeline takes place on Kiro’s 22nd birthday, before he reunites with MC at the convenience store after 17 years since the orphanage incident. It provides some more insight and backstory for Kiro which is always nice.
I have included my thoughts and feelings on this date at the end so you’re welcome to read it if you so choose.
Without further ado, enjoy and HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIRO!!! YOU DESERVE ALL THE LOVE, HAPPINESS, AND EVERYTHING THAT IS BEAUTIFUL IN THE WORLD!!! 😘💕
[Part 1]
In the backstage hallway of the gymnasium, I shuffled along awkwardly on my furry bear feet.
There’s less than twenty minutes before the concert. I have to hurry to the dressing room. With this thought in mind, I supported myself against the wall as I quickened my pace.
As I rounded the corner, a familiar face came into view.
Kiro: Huh, you’re…?
Seeing his curious face, I held back a smile and decided to make some changes to the plan. I turned the wooden sign hanging on my chest to the front.
Kiro: “Hug the bear to trigger a surprise”?
His eyes lit up and then suddenly he snapped his fingers.
Kiro: Oh~ I know. You’re the “surprise” MC sent.
Kiro: You’re here to cheer me on before I go on stage, right?
As soon as I nodded, he hugged me. His fluffy blond hair rubbed against me gently causing a warm and fuzzy feeling in my heart.
Giggling, I took a step back, blew him a big kiss, and grabbed the candies in my pocket to sprinkle over him like a colorful “rain”.
But the moment I jumped up, my cumbersome body tilted to the side and the candies fell out of my hand and onto the ground.
MC: !
At the same time, a force grabbed my waist.
Kiro: Why is this “little bear” so clumsy?
Did he recognize me?
Kiro seemed to guess what I was thinking so he reached out and took off my headgear. Seeing his look of surprise, I rubbed my “bear paws” in embarrassment.
MC: …I rehearsed it so well but it still turned out like this.
Kiro: I think this “little bear” is much cuter.
Kiro: Isn’t it hot?
I shook my head as he raised his hand to wipe the sweat from my forehead and then gently fanned my face with the other. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the bear’s head next to him and pursed my lips.
MC: It’s too bad the surprise didn’t work out perfectly.
Kiro: Even so, I still like it because you’re my biggest surprise.
As soon as he said that, the sound of the intercom rang out in the corridor.
MC: Is it time?
Kiro: Mn, but before I go, does Miss “Little Bear” have anything else? For example…
He slowly came closer to me, tightly enclosing me in this small space. In the next second, a soft and long kiss fell on my lips.
The sound of footsteps running towards the stage came from the end of the hallway.
It seems that no knows there are two intertwined breaths hidden in a corner no one knows about.
MC: It’s time for the superstar’s last stop of the tour. I wish you a successful finale!
Kiro: With this surprise, I will definitely do my best~
[Part 2]
The concert ended with a grand birthday song and the multi-month global tour came to an close.
After the show, I quietly slipped into Kiro’s dressing room. While I played with the balloons, I went over my plan for the next surprise.
MC: After going through the entryway, press the remote at the same time…the remote control!
I quickly took out the remote control to make sure the new battery was inside. I breathed a sigh of relief.
After replicating the whole process of the plan in my head, I looked at the clock on the wall. It’s 10 o’clock.
My phone vibrated.
Savin SMS: Everything is ready and everyone is gone, including me~
Familiar and hurried footsteps came from outside the door. I ran quickly to open it and threw myself into that person’s arms.
Kiro: Have you been waiting long?
Kiro: I was “arrested” for an interview just now. Savin and I couldn’t find a chance to tell you.
MC: Not long at all. Besides, any longer and I would have to go to the stage and “arrest” you myself. 😳👀 *Well, he has that long ass black ribbon so...*
Kiro smiled and gave my forehead a soft peck.
Kiro: Rest assured, all of my work is done so the rest of my time is entirely yours.
MC: Is it only for me?
Kiro: Wow, when did you become so greedy? *Hmm, maybe it’s because of a certain someone going public about their relationship...😏*
I lifted my chin with a smile and pull him out of the room mysteriously.
MC: Let’s go, Birthday Boy. It’s time to head to your birthday home!
Standing at the stage’s entrance, I spread my arms out towards Kiro who looked confused.
MC: Welcome to Kiro’s birthday party celebration~ Please close your eyes for the surprise unveiling.
Kiro smiled and closed his eyes at my command. I took a deep breath and pressed the button on the remote in my pocket.
The stage lights in the distance went out at once leaving only tiny “starlights” surrounding the walls.
I held Kiro’s hands and shook them.
MC: Follow me and hold onto my hand.
Kiro: Mn, I’ve got a firm grip.
I slowly maneuvered Kiro onto the stage, over the creaking wooden floor and onto the soft grass.
The breeze blew in from the open-air space above, rustling the leaves. A petal fluttered down and landed on the tip of Kiro’s nose.
Kiro: Ah, ah-choo--!
He sniffled and shook his head but that spot of pink refused to leave and remained on his nose.
The funny scene made me burst out in laughter.
Kiro: …Miss Chips, hurry and help me or else I’ll have to open my eyes!
MC: Don’t! Hold on a sec…
I hurriedly took a step forward, twirled the naughty petal with my finger, looked at the corner of his proudly raised lips, and gently pinched the tip of his nose.
Avoiding the gravel and stakes beneath our feet, we finally reached the center of the stage.
MC: My birthday superstar, you can open your eyes.
Kiro opened his eyes and looked around. His eyebrows lifted in surprise.
I followed his eyes as he looked at the soft grass blowing in the wind and the shadows of the trees swaying slightly against the hazy moonlight.
At this moment, we seem to be in a field under a sea of stars.
Kiro: It’s clearly no different from tonight’s stage. It’s the same…the only difference is…
Kiro: …There’s starlight everywhere! It looks like there are real stars now.
Kiro: MC, how did you do this?
I smiled mysteriously.
MC: I’ll tell you later~ Now, are you ready to start your treasure hunt?
[Part 3]
Kiro: You’re saying you’ve already hidden the birthday present on the stage?
He looked around in disbelief.
Kiro: Really? But I didn’t find anything on stage today.
MC: If you did, it wouldn’t be called hiding~
MC: Fortunately, I watched all your performances and I even asked the dance instructor for advice…
MC: Just to find the best “treasure spot”.
I dragged him across the grass on the stage. Stopping in front of a tall tree, I reach out to pat it and said solemnly.
MC: Introducing—my best assistant, Mr. Tree.
MC: Although it’s just a stage prop, thanks to it, it’s a solid foundation for this treasure hunt.
Kiro put his ear next to the tree trunk, knocked on it, and then shook his head after hearing a hollow sound.
Kiro: According to Kiro the Explorer’s preliminary assessment, the gift isn’t in the tree hole.
He looked up and down the tree. After a long time, he seemed to have noticed something and his azure blue eyes suddenly widened at me.
Kiro: I got it, you hid the gift on the tree?
I waved my finger at him.
MC: Not exactly but this is the first step of this treasure hunt. You’ll find out when you climb up and have a look.
He was surprised. Suddenly the corners of his lips curled up.
Kiro: I remembered how we climbed the wall at my high school last year…
Kiro: Has Miss Chips’ climbing skills have gotten any better?
Note: This is a reference to Kiro’s 4th birthday date, Satisfaction Date.
Saying that, he placed his foot into the hollow of the tree and jumped up lithely, reaching out to me.
Kiro: Do you want to test yourself or have me help you up?
I raised my head and poked at the trunk of the tree blankly.
MC: Actually…I prepared a ladder.
Kiro: …
His hand suddenly froze in the air.
MC: However, my skills should have improved! Kiro, give me your hand!
I jumped up as my hand was held by a strong warmth. I stepped onto the tree trunk, kicked hard and settled myself next to Kiro.
The temperature of the night brought a touch of coolness to my face. A warm jacket was draped over me.
As I bundled myself up, I turned to see him looking around.
Kiro: Strange, isn’t the gift on the tree?
I suppressed a smile and grabbed his arm.
MC: The point of the treasure hunt is to go through thousands of memories to find the most precious treasure. The treasure of the big birthday star needs to be uncovered little by little.
MC: So, Mr. Explorer, are you ready to go to our first stop, France?
Seeing his surprised expression, I secretly pressed the button on the remote control.
The tree on the lifting platform gradually rose and the big screen on the stage suddenly lit up, covering the thick clouds.
As the platform climbed higher, the mist on the screen swept behind us.
Then, all at once, the scene suddenly became clear and towering, mountainous peaks stretched before us.
I took a peek at Kiro and saw the incredible radiance in his eyes.
Our field of vision rose again and the picture changed. After the bright sun passed by, a cluster of buildings appeared below us.
Immediately, the viewing angle swooped down towards the buildings. The tangible view made me hold my breath and I grasped onto the tree trunk.
The picture rotated and we crossed over Lourve, shuttling through the busy streets. After a while, a classical-style building stood before us.
Kiro: It’s the Paris Opera House…!
As soon as he said that, we passed through the window and into a resplendent concert hall—
On the big stage, a small figure held a violin. The tips of his left fingers skipped gently as graceful notes from the violin flowed out.
In those focused blue eyes, there was a hidden ambition.
Standing behind him was Mrs. Seidel in a gorgeous dress, singing an elegant song.
I couldn’t help looking at the pair of pure eyes beside me but that ambition was no longer there.
MC: Kiro, were you nervous at the time? Look, your lips are tightly pressed together.
He looked at the figure for a long time as if he was listening to a performance and thinking about some distant story. Then, he suddenly smiled.
Kiro: I was more nervous than you think.
He lowered his head and looked down at his opened hands.
Kiro: At that time, my hands wouldn’t stop shaking and it was almost impossible for me to hold tightly onto the bow of the violin.
MC: But from an audience’s point of view, I felt like there weren’t any flaws.
Kiro laughed and there was a trace of something in his voice.
Kiro: Actually, looking at it now, some of the notes don’t flow well together and the finger placements look unnatural.
Kiro: When playing this piece, it is best to keep the bow of the right hand at the same height so the song will be livelier and smoother.
Kiro: More importantly, no matter how nervous you are, you can’t show it.
He pointed out the inadequacies one after another, as if he was talking to his past self.
I gave him a serious look.
MC: Mr. Kiro, you’re so strict.
MC: You should be telling your past self—you were awesome. You did what you could to the best of your abilities.
MC: The me right now is very proud of you.
Kiro didn’t say anything for a while. The light and shadows on his face kept changing as he looked at the young boy.
As the last note played out, the little figure bowed reverently. Kiro watched silently and his expression relaxed as though relieved.
Kiro: Great job, Kiro.
The hazy clouds appeared again, brushing away the resplendent hall.
MC: Next stop—California, here we come!
I pressed the control button and the platform moved again. Soon, a blue sea came into view.
We walked with the seagulls, overlooking the fish jumping out of the water until we came upon a green playground full of teenagers shouting.
The movie scanned across many football helmets before coming to a stop on a pair of blue eyes. Fine beads of sweat gathered between Kiro’s brows as he stared straight ahead.
In the next second, he jumped and took hold of the ball in his arms, deftly avoiding the defense line again and again as deafening cheers rang out.
Kiro: There’s a video of this football game…how did you find it?
The people surrounding him opened their eyes wide in surprise, the bright sunlight reflecting in his eyes.
MC: Hehe, it’s a secret~
Kiro: Since it’s the birthday star’s biggest day, every wish should be fulfilled~
Kiro: Come on, tell me. I promise, it will only be a little secret between the two of us.
He said cheekily as he made a whispering gesture with his hand to his ear.
MC: I contacted your high school and finally a teacher from the classical music department gave the video to me.
He blinked in surprise.
Kiro: I remember that gentleman. I didn’t expect…he would record this.
MC: And he also left this sentence in the email—
MC: “Kilo, Happy Birthday! You are still shining nowadays.”
The air was still. His eyelashes fluttered slightly as if he couldn’t resist the surging emotions.
I slowly rested my head on his shoulder and whispered softly.
MC: Now, we’re headed to the final stop, Loveland City, where we met.
[Part 4]
The picture cut to a wide section of yellow sand. A figure on a galloping horse came into view.
Under the sound of majestic battle drums, a dazzling silver spear fell behind Kiro who was wearing armor, red tassels fluttering freely in the wind.
Looking at the boy on the screen, I poked Kiro’s arm.
MC: You know what? When “Three Kingdoms” first released, I was going to go see it.
MC: But I was still stuck at school making short films and by the time I came out of the editing room, it was over.
MC: So, I sometimes wonder, if I had seen that movie when I did…
MC: Would it be like we were meeting in the same time and space? Like an intersection?
Kiro reached out and grabbed my fingers, stroking them gently.
Kiro: In fact, this intersection has always existed.
Kiro: When I was shooting this movie, I also thought about whether you would see it and whether you would like it.
Kiro: I have imagined countless possibilities but I still couldn’t find an answer.
Kiro: But then I figured it out. Because no matter what happens, it’s just a process. In the end, I will definitely find you.
Kiro: And then, we can slowly make up for the shortcomings we missed.
Hearing his soft voice, I snuggled up to him.
MC: Then I must do some calculations in order to make up for all the missed intersections!
The yellow sand in the movie gradually disappeared and a red carpet came into view. Kiro, wearing a formal suit, was writing his name on the signature board.
As he wrote the last line, the picture started to change constantly—
Kiro winning a trophy for the first time, Kiro holding a concert for 10,000 people, Kiro making his debut in the fashion industry…
At different periods of time, he is like a scroll full of treasures, unfolding page by page before us.
Until the movie slowly played out, the surroundings darkened and the stars filled the sky again. I tightened my palms and waited silently.
The person beside me suddenly seemed to have noticed something and pointed into the distance.
Kiro: It looks like our treasure hunt isn’t over yet!
At the end of the stage, a gleam of light lit up in the crack on the ground, as if it had been given life, stretching along the French, California and Loveland cities that we just “walked”—
Coming to us slowly in a long track.
Before it reached the tree, I reached out and held my hands in front of Kiro.
MC: Don’t blink! The sorcerer MC is going to perform some magic for you!
Those clear eyes looked at me seriously. My heart couldn’t help beating a little faster and I slowly spread out my hands—
A star shines in my palm, illuminating our faces.
His eyes widened slightly as he reached out and touched the bright star.
Kiro: This is…?
MC: “The Star of Achievement”.
I paused and lightly traced the outline of the star.
MC: People always forget their past selves and how hard they worked to become who they are now.
MC: So, I’ve gathered all of Kiro’s efforts from childhood to adulthood into this star.
MC: I want you to know that your efforts are visible.
MC: They’re shining.
Kiro stared deeply at the star, as if he wanted to remember it forever. After a long time, his eyes glowed with the starlight.
Kiro: If hard work can be seen, then so should my heart.
Kiro: Because during the course of my life, there was a light that always accompanied me.
He held the back of my hand and swept my palm stroke by stroke making it tingle.
As if thinking of something, he tilted his head and gently scraped the fluorescent powder in my palm with his fingertip. Unable to handle the tingling sensation, I tried to pull my hand back.
MC: Wha-what are you doing!
Kiro: It’s too dark. Lend me some of the fluorescent you have in your hand.
MC: Wait a minute, hahaha that tickles!
Kiro: Hold still, don’t move! Bear with me a little longer.
As the width of his fingertips increased, I finally managed to withdraw my hand but ended up pulling him into my arms.
Kiro stared at me blankly but continued to scrape with his finger.
MC: …
I put my hand on his cheek and rubbed it angrily.
MC: I have a pen with me. You want it?
Kiro: But I think the fluorescence will be more powerful.
Seeing his mean-spirited expression, I immediately took out my pen and handed it to him. He pretended to take it in disappointment but still showed a hint of a smile on his lips.
Kiro: It’s fine for now. I’ll let you see my heart clearly soon.
After he finished speaking, he removed the pen cap and drew a golden star, one after another, on my palm.
I looked at him quietly. The scattered stars around him seemed to fill his eyes, bright and serious.
After a while, my hand was covered with stars he had drawn.
MC: What’s this?
He smiled and started to connect the stars with the pen.
As each stroke landed, his warm breath and the tickling on my hand kept overloading my senses, making my heart skip a beat.
Until the last one was drawn, the string of characters made my eyes widen—
MC’s name.
Kiro put down the pen and rubbed my palm very lightly.
Kiro: This is the light of my life.
Kiro: Forever and ever, a light that never fades.
As if in answer to his words, the name on my palm and the shining star intertwine and sparkle.
Like they are accompanying one another, illuminating each other.
I looked at him. The ripples in my heart continued to expand until it filled my heart.
MC: Kiro, happy birthday.
MC: You always be happy.
Kiro smiled and traced my cheek with his fingertips.
Kiro: I will be happy with you by my side
He took my hand and pressed it reverently between his brows, closing his eyes.
Kiro: The birthday star who received the blessing now has to make a wish.
Kiro: The wishes made today will surely come true.
The moonlight in the distance is mixed with the colors of the stars, outlining his profile in a lovely glow.
It makes me want to keep looking at him forever.
Kiro: God of wishes, I have a small birthday wish—
Kiro: I want to walk with MC at every moment of my life and realize every wish in the future with her.
Looking at his pious and serious profile, I gave him a tender kiss.
MC: Don’t bother with the god of wishes. I will fulfill your wish.
MC: It will be 100% successful.
[End]
Final thoughts: First off, I still cannot believe that this is a birthday karma and and SR one at that. Definitely my favorite out of all of Kiro’s bday karmas. The artists at PG went all out on this one. Like...WOW!!! Give that artist a raise as well!
After reading the date, I now understand why it’s called “Mirroring” date because everything MC did, from her mannerisms to the way she speaks, is exactly like Kiro. Her actions are “mirroring” what Kiro does to MC like how she’s so mysterious and secretive when it comes to surprises. MC in a bear costume with candy, treasure hunting, calling him special names....classic Kiro behavior. There’s a reason why Kiro x MC are twin flames/mirror souls because this entire date shows it and the vibes were STRONG. MC was not shy one bit in this date. I hope MC continues to remain this way in future Kiro dates. I want to see more MC loving on Kiro. Also, MC, I know you’re a producer but DAMN GIRL!!! You went above and beyond with your creative skills this time. Can you hook a sister up? MC utilized that entire stage like a boss. Her putting together a documentary/movie of Kiro’s life from a young child to an adult is brilliant. It’s the best way to let Kiro see all the hard work he has done because he always felt that he was never good enough or perfect enough. Even if people told him he was great, he wouldn’t believe it.
Eva Seidel, once again, was only mentioned briefly. Seriously, when is there gonna be an actual one-on-one date where we learn more about her because Astral Date wasn’t enough. I want to know how she and Kiro interacted during their time together in France and how Kiro ended up in her care. I hope I don’t have to wait until Kiro’s next birthday date to find out. Like KEY, she remains a mysterious and interesting character to me.
Overall, this date was much needed after reading season 2 chapter 27. MC saying that she will be the one person to fulfill all of Kiro’s wishes in the future...MY HEART!!! 🥺😭🤧💕
Kiro’s My Heart Jumps for Joy Mind’s Quest Translation [CN]
Hello, thank you for patience! The translation of this masterpiece of a date has arrived!! 😍
💛 A few things to note before you begin reading 💛
If you haven’t seen it yet, you can find the Exclusive Radio for this date here!
This translation was done with the help of Google Translate and @keliosyfan!
I’m going to be including links to videos about certain moves and exercises that are described/mentioned in the date if you would like a little more detail. I’ve been classically trained in ballet ever since I was 5, so I’m going to leave little tidbits here and there throughout. My bun head self was so giddy while reading through 🤩
I am going to give a slight TRIGGER WARNING in regards to the theme of weight loss in this date. The content of the date doesn’t really revolve around this topic, but it was mentioned enough times for me to feel that I should say something about it. Having been in the dance scene, I know it can be a sensitive topic.
So without further ado, enjoy!
*Spoilers for future content below!*
[First Part]
??: Dear passengers, welcome to Loveland Airlines flight LY0521 from Loveland City to Bern…
Accompanied by the gentle broadcast sound, I quickly finished the work email. After closing the file, I click to open the top chat box–
“Hey, I’ll take off right away~”
The moment the message is sent, a typing indicator pops up with a round-headed bear bouncing around.
Kiro: “Great! See you in seventeen hours and seven minutes!”
After the message arrived, another bear popped up and blew a pink heart kiss to me.
After we “blew kisses” back and forth several times with joy, I turned on airplane mode and looked at the blue sky outside the porthole. *CUUUUUTE*
In order to star in a literary film with a professional ballet dancer as the main character, Kiro decided to go to France for further studies despite the training he had when he was young.
Because this stay is for a month, we agreed to celebrate New Year’s in France so that he could study without apprehension.
(Flashback to MC’s bedroom)
One week ago, Kiro unexpectedly sent a message adding additional plans–
Kiro: “MC, I’m going to Bern to find the teacher who taught me back then to take ballet lessons. See you in Bern!”
(Back to present)
MC: Phew… finally arrived.
After getting off the plane, I pulled the suitcase and walked quickly to the exit while rubbing my sore shoulders.
After walking through several passages, I finally saw the pick-up area. However–
The area was densely packed with golden heads occupying my field of vision. My ability to “spot the blond at a glance” is completely lost here. *I’m hoping this is what the text meant to say. GT made it sound really strange lol*
MC: Hmm…let’s use the power of technology.
Just as I was about to take out my phone, a brown colour appeared in the corner of my eye at a distance, shaking left and right midair in the crowd.
I looked closely and found that it was a little bear hand puppet!
It is wearing a beret and a plaid suit. It is obviously a gentleman’s outfit, but it is waving its bear paws excitedly, and its round head is also swinging back and forth in a rock-and-roll style.
After I waved to the Little Bear with a knowing smile, I quickened my pace.
At the same time, Little Bear also quickened his pace. *Changed some wording*
As I crossed the boundary line of the exit, I finally saw the person I had missed day and night for the past half month.
MC: Kiro!
I let go of my luggage and threw myself into his arms. He tightened his arms, and a laughing voice rang in my ears.
Kiro: It seems that Kiro is also very lucky today.
Kiro: It was supposed to take seventeen hours and seven minutes to see you, but only sixteen hours and fifty-three minutes have passed. *The fact that he counts down the minutes until he sees his beloved again 😭*
MC: Pfft, are you so easily satisfied? It’s just ten minutes early…
Kiro: But for those of us who haven’t seen Miss Chips for half a month, we should cherish every moment we can earlier.
MC: Us?
He raised the Little Bear with a smile, and it leaned down to me in a gentlemanly manner and kissed my cheek.
Kiro: Bear Ro-Ro misses you so much that he told me to kiss you when we meet~
Kiro: But I made an agreement with him a few weeks in advance. He can only kiss cheeks, and I–
In the next second, a softer touch lands on my upper lip and leaves a touch of sweetness.
Looking at the cunning he had in his eyes, I stand on my tiptoes and rubbed my nose with his.
MC: This big star Kiro really has a bunch of tricks up his sleeve. *Changed some wording. GT was giving something about 108 minds and I couldn’t tell you what it meant. I searched forever and couldn’t find anything 🥲*
MC: Even “stealing relatives” needs to find a high-sounding reason~ *This, too...*
Kiro: Don’t you like it? It’s not impossible to omit this step next time…
Just as I was about to smile and pinch his palm, my phone sounded with the company’s notification tone.
MC: …Give me one sec.
Kiro: Is it still busy during this time?
MC: It’s okay~ In order to have a happy New Year with Superstar Kiro, I have already dealt with most of the stuff at work.
MC: Now we are waiting for an overseas company’s cooperation intention to reply.
Kiro: So that’s it…and there’s a lot of time for me?
After pressing the send button, I took his arm with a smile.
MC: Well, almost 70% of the time is yours. The rest I can leave to work~
Kiro: Not bad, I’m accounted for more than half of your time.
He rolled his eyes, took my hand and walked towards the parking lot.
But after walking a few steps, I suddenly felt something was wrong and squeezed his palm.
Like realizing something, I took two quick steps forward, then turned around to face him, carefully observing him as I walked backwards.
Perhaps because of the sunlight, his jawline was more defined, and even his eye sockets became somewhat deep.
Although I knew that in order to meet the requirements of the role, he needed to be thinner. But now that I actually get to see him in person, he was much thinner than in the video call a few days ago.
MC: …
I feel a surge of tears beginning to rise, making my eyes feel a little hot.
Kiro has made such an effort for this role. I want to affirm him more than feel sorry for him.
I sniffled hard, pretending to be cold, and gave him a big smile.
MC: Kiro, you did it, congratulations! You have lost a lot of weight! Now it is very in line with what you showed me before the appearance of the protagonist was set. *Changed some wording*
Kiro: Really? Is it that obvious?
MC: Of course! My Kiro now has a thin and lean beauty.
He opened his eyes slightly and smiled triumphantly.
Kiro: With your words, I seem to have the courage to insist on eating salad for a month again.
MC: You want to lose more weight?
Kiro: Well, after showing the teacher the premise of the character I’m playing, he thinks that the upper body needs to be thinner.
I froze for a moment and reacted belatedly.
MC: Are you talking about the ballet teacher you came here to take lessons with?
Kiro nodded.
MC: It seems that this mentor is really serious, otherwise he wouldn’t have made you willing to “toss” back and forth like this.
He seemed to be lost in thought, and after a while, he grinned wryly.
Kiro: It’s better to say...that he’s a devil teacher rather than just a teacher.
[Second Part]
After returning to Kiro’s temporary residence in Bern, it was already dark.
First, he studied the script for two hours according to the plan, and after half an hour of exercise…
We finally lay down on the sofa and chatted while resting, listening to the stories about him practising when he was young.
MC: What?! Even if you practice until late at night the day before, you have to get up at 5:30 in the morning the next day to practise again? *Can confirm this is 100% true. Had some practices until midnight sometimes and then had to go to school bright and early the next day. Rip 🥲*
Hearing this, I couldn’t help raising my head from his arms in surprise.
Kiro: Well, there are benefits to waking up early, too. You can take your time and have a hot breakfast. Otherwise, you can only just bite a piece of bread and run to class.
Kiro: But what impressed me the most was that if we fell below his expectations even just a little bit, he would force us to stand on our heads.
Kiro: Ah— At that time, I was dizzy every day and often saw stars in front of my eyes in the room.
He paused and poked my nose triumphantly.
Kiro: But under such strict training, I was accidentally trained to be a pro “One, two, three wooden man”! *If you’ve heard of “Freeze Dance”, it’s pretty similar to what I believe he’s saying here (except that it’s not a punishment lol). The goal of the game is to only dance when the music is playing. When the music stops, everyone freezes. If you’re caught moving even just a little bit, you’re out. Whoever is the last one remaining wins. For an added challenge, there’ll be certain poses that the players have to freeze in such as a tree or flamingo.*
MC: Pfft… why is this such a game? Is it some kind of trick to avoid the devil teacher?
Kiro: Hmph, that’s right! As long as I am punished to stand on my head, I will try to “idle” while he is not looking at me~
Kiro: If I don’t, my head will be filled with blood and I will pass out, and I don’t want the ambulance to “wee woo, wee woo” me away. *He actually makes the siren sounds LOL*
MC: …
Listening to him joking about his previous experience, I felt a bit of a tug at my heart.
Even though I know this is typical for professional training, I still feel that this is a bit “wicked” for a ten-year-old child.
MC: Damn, I didn’t expect it to be so “devilish”!
Faced with my belated dissatisfaction, Kiro just smiled, his eyes reflecting the colours of flickering stars.
Then his fingertips wove between mine as if absorbing their warmth and began caressing them gently.
Kiro: I didn’t care about those things long ago, but now that I’m hearing Miss Chips’ cry of injustice…
Kiro: I am still very happy.
I couldn’t help hugging him and leaning my head gently against his chest.
MC: …Then the reason why you came to him for mentoring is that this teacher has an irreplaceable strength?
Kiro hugged me tightly, closing the distance between us silently.
Kiro: That’s right. But at the beginning, I didn’t have such an idea, but when I was training in France some time ago…
Kiro: I found that although the teacher in charge is very professional, he just encouraged me to get used to things slowly whenever I made a mistake. *Changed some wording*
Kiro: But…I don’t have much time to get used to it.
Kiro: I have to practice every movement to the extreme as soon as possible so that I can take on more difficult skills.
MC: Have you communicated with him? Ask him to be stricter?
He paused, his eyes flickering with a complex expression.
Kiro: Well, he said that it was because I have missed the best age to practice professional ballet…
Kiro: So even if one were to follow the requirements of professional dancers, it may not be enough.
He let go of me slightly, the deep sea in his eyes filled the night with more profound emotions secretly surging.
Kiro: But even though he said that, I still can’t accept it.
The classical music flowing continuously from the record player in the room became extremely clear in the “pause” at this moment.
Kiro got off the sofa silently and walked towards the centre of the terrace alone–
Looking at his sudden actions, I seemed to know what he was going to do next, but I also didn’t.
I can only watch him quietly.
After he slightly raised the corners of his lips to me, his body swayed gently to the melody.
*Bear with me as I give some terminology. GT isn’t the best at giving exact details for movements, so I had to get creative to make the steps make sense in word format 😅*
Soon, he seemed to enter the state. Kiro took a round step, jumped into the air and twirled lightly. *It looks like here he is doing a piqué turn en dehors and then going into a tour en l’air. You can watch it here (start at 1:30)*
The moonlight spread across the area, dyeing him bright and clean. His slender arms seem to touch the stars, stretching with supple grace.
Several times, he made difficult moves in the air that I couldn’t put a name to, just like an angel who strayed into the mortal world. *(Video) The text doesn’t say which moves but this link will give you an idea of what is being described here*
He danced like this in the moonlight with the specs of dust, flowing in my unmoving eyes.
I don’t know how long it took before Kiro put down his lightly raised arms and turned to look at me.
Kiro: MC, this is the only episode that was approved by that teacher when I was ten years old.
Kiro: Although I didn’t study with him for long, I still remember this part even now.
Kiro: …Every moment, height, and angle I never forgot.
Looking at the man who was still panting slightly, I couldn’t help sitting up from the sofa and staring at him sincerely.
MC: Kiro, although I don’t know much about ballet, I think the part you just performed was awesome.
MC: Just like the professional ballet dancers I see on TV.
Kiro: Really?
Kiro: But this is not enough.
Kiro: Because I want to play the protagonist who is dancing in the presence of thousands of people on stage.
Kiro: For this reason, he has put in a lot of hard work. He has been practising day and night since he was five years old. In the past twenty years, he never slacked off a single day.
Kiro: And there’s this kind of distance between me and that person that I can’t catch up with.
Kiro: I can only keep practising, keep running forward, and walk through every road he has experienced.
Kiro: Only in this way can I empathize with him and interpret this role more realistically.
Kiro said this softly, his eyes slowly falling back on me.
Kiro: Therefore, his skills must not be treated “according to” Kiro’s own conditions.
Kiro: It is to be worthy of the stage of ten thousand people.
Kiro: I have to be worthy of this pride.
Kiro spoke firmly against the night as if nothing could shake him.
At the same time, a gust of evening wind blows, and the raised hem of his clothes outlines his emaciated body.
The already distinct collarbone is getting deeper now, and even his shoulder blades are clearly protruding.
The emotion called “distress” turned into a thin rope at this time and it slowly twisted, making my breathing more rapid.
I silently walked behind Kiro and hugged him proudly but gently.
MC: Kiro, if you work hard, you will definitely make it through.
MC: And I will always be with you.
He turned around with a smile and rubbed my head.
Kiro: Then I will prepare you in advance. *Changed some wording*
Kiro: I may practice without sleep or food, and may even have some small abrasions on my body…
Kiro: You can’t stop me then.
Hearing his coquettish tone, I couldn’t help smiling and leaning into his arms.
MC: Of course, I know that. After all, you are Kiro who pursues perfection.
MC: Besides, I’m by your side now.
MC: If you feel tired and out of breath because you are too involved in doing something…
MC: I will hold you firmly like driftwood in the water so that you can find support as soon as you reach out. Reach out and I’ll be there.
MC: Let me help you find your breath.
MC: So you can rest assured do your best.
[Memory Silhouette]
It was late at night and light snow fell outside the window.
Kiro sat in a corner of the terrace, quietly watching the world being gradually dyed into a pure white.
He originally thought that the chat tonight was just a shallow recollection of childhood trivialities.
But the sleepless heart lying on the bed seemed to prove that his emotions were not as relaxed as he had thought.
Although he has long forgotten how painful it is to stretch his legs to the right degree. *Changed some wording*
He could still vaguely see a picture in his mind with transparent ink stains dripping on the smooth floor.
It’s just that no one can tell whether it’s tears or sweat. *From experience, probably both 🥲*
Kiro exhaled lightly, stood up on his tiptoes and jumped again following the fluttering white snow.
But even so, he still likes it all.
Whether it is music or dance, they can make one’s heart calm.
And even more so when he was a child.
Apart from KEY’s home, he likes to spend time alone in the practice room.
You can temporarily isolate yourself, and then devote your full being to the melody of each stanza. *Changed some wording*
It’s where no one can bother him, it belongs to him alone–
A secret base.
Thinking of this, Kiro couldn’t help raising the corners of his lips.
He hummed softly, and in the ever-changing dance steps, he caught flakes of white snow with his palm.
It wasn’t until a cloud slowly blows away that the obscured stars finally appear.
Kiro looked at the sky and couldn’t help but speak softly.
Kiro: Miss Chips, the stars are out.
After a brief silence, Kiro looked back at the girl who was already asleep and walked quietly to her side.
The girl fell asleep peacefully, the laptop was still on the quilt, and the screen was covered with program budgets.
Kiro: Trying to work with jet lag must be hard, right?
Kiro picked up the laptop while talking, and after pressing the save button, he closed the screen and put it aside.
Just when he was about to get into bed, he seemed to have thought of something, and suddenly stayed in place.
Kiro: …
In the next second, Kiro began to rub his somewhat cold hands to warm them up and then on the clothes and trousers that were penetrated with cold air.
It wasn’t until his body became warm that he lifted the quilt and lay down slowly.
But before he could find the most suitable sleeping position, the girl suddenly rolled over and hugged him.
Kiro: Are you a koala? You found the right place in one go.
Even though he said this, he still gently took the girl into his arms.
Just as he closed his eyes contentedly, he suddenly opened his eyes as if he had forgotten the most important thing.
Kiro smiled, leaned over and kissed the girl’s soft lips. *This is a reference to his first Exclusive Memory in his Mini House where they agreed to share a kiss in the morning when they wake up and before they go to bed 💛*
Kiro: Good night, my Miss Chips.
[Third Part]
The morning sun gleamed leisurely on my eyelids. I opened my eyes and found that the other half of the bed was empty, only covered with residual warmth.
Thinking that Kiro had already woken up, I also took out the laptop beside the bed and started working.
There is a seven-hour time difference between Loveland City and here, so I can only start work in the early hours of the morning and at midnight.
In order to finalize the cooperation intention with the overseas “TN” company earlier, I have been organizing online meetings with Anna and optimized the planning proposal and budget table many times.
It’s just that the other party hasn’t expressed its intention and my heart is beginning to sink.
After another reminder to keep the staff on track, I got off the computer and walked out of the bedroom in my nightgown.
(Cut to courtyard)
The morning sun shines in through the leaves in the courtyard, casting a peaceful moment.
I walked lazily until I noticed the empty yogurt bowl on the island in front of me and a banana peel in the trash can.
This scene reminded me of the thin frame dancing in the moonlight.
I pursed my lips, stepped forward and opened the refrigerator–
At a glance, there are only fruits and vegetables and unsweetened yogurt on the side door panel.
MC: He’s been eating these every day…there’s not even meat.
I continued to rummage and finally found a steak in the small and exquisite freezer with a sticky note on the sealed bag–
Kiro: “I’ll eat you on Thursday!”
Kiro: “What’s Kiro, who’s had meat for only two days, going to do? Can’t stand it T_T *Changed some wording*
Just seeing the words on the sticky note, his tone of grievance and bitterness filled in my mind.
Feeling sad, I picked up a pen and wrote a cute little sentence–
“I promise that when you accomplish the weight loss, we will find an authentic hot pot restaurant in Switzerland, so come on!”
After closing the refrigerator, I sighed and walked toward the living room. My gaze continued to search for Kiro’s figure.
As if responding to me, after turning a corner, I heard soft piano music playing slowly.
I followed the sound and saw a figure standing against the light.
Kiro stepped on the green grass with bare feet and stretched his slender arms toward the blue sky as if he was stroking something.
His fingertips touch the tree trunk, one arm stretched over the other as his leg extended up in the air.
The close-fitting clothes trace out lean lines and the light is like a paintbrush, leaving traces of lustre. *Once again, GT wasn’t very clear, but it sounds like he is doing an adage which is slower-paced to focus on lines and extensions of the body. The video here will give you an idea.*
Under the shadowy backlight, that unreal figure seemed to make me really see the dream-chasing boy in the script.
The sky and the earth are his audience, the grass, trees and sunshine are his feathers, and the sound of rustling leaves in the wind is the uninterrupted applause.
And like a noble prince standing under the sunlight, the immediate everything is calmly captured in his eyes.
I never made a sound, unwilling to destroy the eternal moment in this “picture frame”. It wasn’t until the sound of the piano subsided that he finally stopped and sat on the soft bed next to him. *It’s interesting that “picture frame” is mentioned because this is one of the techniques used in dance. You can use it for any sort of dance but adage is one where it’s super important to remember. Basically, imagine that as you are dancing, there is a photographer who is taking pictures of you throughout. As these pictures are being taken, you want the photographer to capture each and every position you go through to get to the next. While you want each position to be clear in the picture, you also have to remember to have your body flow rather than have it be rigid.*
I don’t know what he is thinking as he waits for his panting breaths to calm down. Only then did he reach out and lace his fingers into his hair gently, lifting it out of the way.
My gaze was following his movements, and when I found that the zipper was reaching his waist, I opened my mouth in a strange way.
MC: Do you need help?
Hearing my voice, Kiro paused slightly. He stood still for a moment and then looked sideways at me.
The moment our eyes met, the deep blue sea begins to secretly surge.
It’s as if it’s going to drag me into the tide.
Kiro: Well, help me undo it.
His voice was slightly hoarse. I walked over and slowly undid the zipper.
With the movement, the tulle of the shirt slid to the sides, revealing the thin neck and slightly protruding spine.
Perhaps the sunlight was a bit dazzling which made me involuntarily put my fingertips on his.
It is a different touch from the past because it is not so smooth. It is also a little cold.
I pursed my lips and continued to pull down the zipper. Looking at the gradually revealing spine, I finally couldn’t help blurting out my silent emotions.
MC: Kiro, I’ve made up my mind, I want to accompany you. Let’s start with a salad.
MC: I know it will be very hard for one person, so let’s work together to resist the temptation of delicious food. Just consider it a challenge!
MC: But you have to promise me that when the shooting is over, you will eat all the meat that is hidden away.
MC: If Savin disagrees, I will help you to intercede.
MC: Otherwise…you might as well take on some characters that need to gain muscle so that you can eat delicious foods freely–
Without waiting for these words to pour out, he suddenly turned around, put his hands on my lower back and kissed me.
The sudden kiss made me feel overwhelmed, but the instigator just kept silent as he breathed with me.
Slowly, his cold body embraced me and we sank onto the soft couch together, as if immersed in a clear spring in winter.
I opened my eyes slightly and found that the eyes of the person close at hand were still shut, his eyelashes trembled slightly with his breathing.
But soon, he seemed to notice my gaze and opened his eyes.
Kiro: …
Now that his eyes were no longer closed, he looked at me quietly, his fingertips wandering around my lower back.
His fingertips were “cascading”, slowly running over my back and continuously rolling upwards until finally sinking deep into my hair.
The fingertips that kept rubbing made me shiver slightly.
Kiro: MC…
MC: Hm?
I murmured indulgently, but not even a moment after my breath was released, he seized me again.
At the same time, the nightgown was easily untied.
His kiss slowly moved downstream, leaving a ticklish feeling everywhere he went.
Although my body trembled slightly, I couldn’t help but want to do something… I raised my chin and caught his eyes which were as muddled as mine.
MC: Kiro…
MC: Hold me closer.
Kiro: Mm.
Even though I said this, I was the first to wrap my arms around him, making sure to leave no extra gaps.
In this way, we roamed each other’s bodies in this clear spring surging with tides, letting the temperature slowly boil.
Until the sun rises and completely covers the spring–
Only fine layers of sweat were left in the silence between each other which seemed to confirm something.
He finally let me go, but his warm fingertips were still caressing my collarbone.
Kiro: You know what? Before you came, I thought this morning was going to be a repeat of the previous few days.
I lay in his arms, a little confused by the sudden conversation, but he just raised the corners of his lips and continued talking.
Kiro: After repeating the exercises over and over again, my brain began to empty, and I imagined myself coming to the seaside. My feet were no longer touching green grass, but rather soft sand.
Kiro: It seems that you can float in the clouds with just a light jump.
Kiro: At that time, I was thinking, what could be better than now?
He stopped slowly, looking down at me.
Kiro: Then you stopped me.
Kiro: At that moment, all the bubbles of my fantasy disappeared little by little until there was no sea or beach.
Kiro: I came back to reality and saw my favourite scene.
At this moment, looking at those blue eyes that only reflected me, my heart began to softly surge.
MC: Is that what’s best for you?
Kiro: Well, there is no other scenery like yours.
I buried myself in his chest with a smile. We tacitly enjoyed the tranquillity at this moment and felt each other’s breath.
Growl…
Until some sudden sound came from my stomach.
Before I could explain myself, Kiro poked my stomach with a smile.
Kiro: It seems like Miss Chips’ stomach has started to eat itself.
MC: I…
He smiled brighter and lowered his head to rub the tip of my nose.
Kiro: But it’s mainly my fault that I didn’t prepare breakfast for you in advance.
After he finished speaking, he got up and walked towards the kitchen. Halfway through, he suddenly thought of something and turned to look at me.
Kiro: By the way, come to class with me after eating. I already let the teacher know in advance~
[Fourth Part]
In the afternoon, I ended up in a sunny classroom and met the rumoured “Devil Teacher”.
He is warming up at the barre. Although his hair is white, his face is thin and his eyes are as sharp as an eagle’s.
From the slender limbs and elegant posture, it is not difficult to see that even in his sixties, he still has the ultimate pursuit of art.
Kiro: Bonjour, professeur.
Kiro looked at me, wrapped an arm around my waist and continued speaking in French so that I couldn’t understand–
It wasn’t until I caught my name that I realized he was introducing me to the teacher.
I hurriedly nodded to the teacher and wondered whether I should also greet him in French, but my tongue was tied when I opened my mouth.
MC: [In English] …Hi, nice to meet you.
Teacher: Bonjour.
The teacher nodded calmly, and with a wave of his forearm, gave way to the position of the barre as if signalling the start of class.
Kiro: I’m ready to start, so you have to keep looking at me.
He leaned over slyly and looked at me, tilted his head and pecked my cheek lightly.
MC: Kiro…the teacher is still there.
Kiro: Don’t worry, he’s a “devil”, but he’s also a romantic French man.
As he spoke, he took out the dance shoes in his bag and changed into them. After taking off his jacket, he revealed the clothes he wore for practising from not long ago.
Watching him walk quickly to the barre to start warming up, I also went to the corner and sat down quickly.
The piano accompaniment sounded quickly and the classroom is gradually filled with dancing and Bu Bu’s main theme.
Teacher: Non, non, non…!! (No, no, no…!!)
Although I don’t understand French, from the teacher’s passionate tone sounding again and again, I also noticed that the atmosphere is tense and strict.
In just ten minutes, Kiro’s clothes were soaked with sweat, his cheeks were flushed, and he gasped for breath.
But he never stopped. He took a step back onto his left leg with his arms held to the side and bent his knees–
After a burst of momentum, he began to rotate round and round.
Sweat drops were scattered onto the ground following the inertia, and the only sound left in the whole classroom was the sound of the rotation… *(Video) From the sounds of it, Kiro’s doing pirouettes or fouette’s, but I’m leaning towards pirouettes.*
The corrections sounded continuously along with “Non”. *Changed some wording*
Suddenly, the picture in front of me gradually overlapped with a thin golden figure following the story I heard last night.
I thought that when he was a child, in the face of such a “vicious spirit”, he would be trembling.
But looking at it now, that doesn’t seem to be the case.
Even if the nay-saying voice is louder, he held his jaw up high and proceeds to jump up in the air, one smooth movement after the other. *(Video) Possibly grand allegro?*
His face stays determined throughout as if nothing could defeat him.
Looking at him like this, the little golden portrait I built in my mind was stroked with “pride”.
Involuntarily, I took out my phone and silently recorded the picturesque scene.
After an unknown amount of time, the light was dyed red-gold by time and afterglow slipped in.
I straightened my body slightly, and the moment the devil teacher stepped out of the classroom, I quickly walked in front of Kiro.
At this time, he was sitting on the floor stretching his muscles. I squatted down, handed over the water bottle and kissed him lightly.
MC: Kiro, thank you for your hard work~
Kiro: It wasn’t hard, I’m just a little tired–
He pouted coquettishly, opened his arms, and lay back on the floor.
MC: The floor is so cold, you’ll catch a cold like this!
Kiro: Then you should come and warm me up.
Kiro smiled and tugged me lightly so that I fell into his lap and open arms.
As if he wanted to rest for a while, he closed his eyes, his fingertips caressed my shoulder restlessly.
Kiro: Miss Chips, how did I do in class?
MC: Do I really need to say? You did very, very well, of course.
Kiro: Hmm…could this be the encouragement of love?
MC: Wrong. To be precise, it is the encouragement and affirmation of love~
MC: If you don’t believe me, take a look at the dance you just did. It was just like a dynamic oil painting~
As I said that, I took out my cell phone and played the video I just recorded for him.
Kiro: Sigh…It seems that the jump is not high enough and the feeling of staying in the air isn’t either.
Kiro: And when controlling the legs, the insteps are not very straight, and it seems that the muscles are subconsciously relaxed.
According to his comments, I carefully observed every frame of the screen for a second and finally poked him with my elbow helplessly.
MC: …Are you sure you’re not nitpicking? *If there’s one thing that most dancers hate, it’s watching themselves dance in a video. It’s like “Omg, not the sickled foot! 😫” “ What is that leg doing?!” LOL*
MC: Or maybe it’s because I’m an outsider, so I can’t see things the same way you do.
Kiro: Maybe both?
Kiro: After all, in the eyes of the professional, you can see at a glance whether the movements are in place.
Kiro: So I still have a long, long way to go before reaching that level.
Kiro: It just so happens that there is no class tomorrow, so why not spend the whole day in the practice room, trying to improve the instep situation…
Even though he said that, his tone was not the slightest bit discouraged. On the contrary, there is still a bit of eagerness to try.
I couldn’t help but prop my head sideways, stretch out my thumb and poke his cheek like a stamp.
MC: Kiro, you are really amazing.
He also imitated me and turned his head sideways and touched the tip of my nose.
Kiro: Huh? Did you just find out that I’m amazing today?
MC: …Seriously?? I’m praising you!
Seeing me pretending to be serious, he smiled and narrowed his eyes like the corners of his mouth. The little bear dipped in honey obediently waits for “praise”.
MC: Because I saw you in class today, I realized that this process seems to be more difficult than I imagined.
MC: It is simply a double tempering of the mind and body…but you seem to be enjoying it, so that’s what makes it amazing.
Kiro: Hearing you say that, I don’t seem to be bad~
I smiled and winked as I handed the microphone to his mouth.
MC: In this case, I want to interview Superstar Kiro. What tips can you pass on to me in this regard?
MC: I also want to have fun on the journey of training~
He rolled his eyes and laid down again with his head on top of his arms.
Kiro: It seems that there is no trick, I just often see things that make me stick to it when I practice. *Such a dancer thing to say haha*
I looked around the classroom, tilting my head in confusion.
MC: But isn’t there just a barre and a mirror here?
Kiro: Not quite, maybe it’s because our perspectives are different?
Kiro: For example, in your eyes, what you see is that I keep dancing and practising.
Kiro: But in my eyes, besides the barre and the mirror, I also see many different things.
MC: What is that?
Kiro: …I’m trying to figure out how to describe it to you.
In the end, his eyes lit up. When he came close to me, his sweet breath stopped at the tip of my nose.
Kiro: Let’s see, how about you practice with me tomorrow?
Kiro: So that you can see what I see.
[Memory Silhouette]
In the evening after Kiro and I got back from class, we began eating a salad.
Kiro: Miss Chips, are you sure you don’t want to add any salad dressing?
Kiro: You know you don’t have to follow so closely.
I nodded with firm eyes, put a vegetable in my mouth and chewed.
MC: No need, I said I want to be with you.
MC: And eating a healthy salad is good for me, too. It’ll help to remove the buildup of the greasy food I ate before~
MC: If I’m really gluttonous, I’ll use the “self-deception method”--
As I said this, I picked up a piece of tofu, closed my eyes and put it in my mouth.
MC: This is meat, this is meat. Just chew this tender and fragrant meat.
Kiro: I’ll try it, too.
Kiro: What I’m eating now is tender beef and eggs.
I couldn’t help but secretly open my eyes halfway and smile after Kiro had followed my example and closed his eyes to eat.
MC: So? Does it work?
He opened his eyes and shrugged his shoulders with a helpless smile.
Kiro: No, it’s just plain white tofu.
Kiro: Ah– I can’t wait until tomorrow to eat that steak.
Hearing this, I suddenly thought of something and opened my mouth while picking up some beans.
MC: By the way, you said that there is no class tomorrow in the afternoon and you can only practice by yourself.
MC: So when is your next class?
He rolled his eyes and bit into a vegetable.
Kiro: Next Monday.
I froze for a moment and couldn’t help being a little surprised.
MC: Is there always such a long time between classes?
Kiro: Well, he has so many students to teach, so the queue is very full.
MC: Ah..that sounds so hard having to teach classes all day long.
Kiro: He doesn’t find it hard. Since he retired from the stage, he has been teaching students who also want to be on the stage. Kiro: In this way, day after day, twenty or thirty years have passed.
MC: Amazing… *I’ve had a couple of professors who were in their seventies. One of them even performed occasionally, too.*
Before I could finish speaking, Kiro took out a tissue, wiped the corner of my mouth lightly, and continued to eat with a fork.
Kiro: Mm, but being able to maintain his fierce character for thirty years is something that is special about him…
MC: You never really talked about his gentle side before. Is it the encouragement method? *Changed some wording*
Kiro thought for a while, smiled and shook his head.
Kiro: He himself said that he can gently praise and encourage just like other teachers.
Kiro: But to do so would smooth out the edges of genius.
Kiro: If ultimate perfection is desired, then indulgent compliments should be an afterthought.
MC: …Hold on.
I bit the fork lightly, pretending to look at Kiro seriously.
MC: Could it be that your perfectionism was nurtured by this teacher?
Kiro: That’s not true, it just happens to be the same idea.
MC: Really…you already had such an awareness when you were ten years old?
MC: At that time, I would only cry and complete all the holiday homework the day before school started…
Kiro put down the fork, smiled and rubbed my head.
Kiro: Of course, at the time I didn’t know what the term perfectionism meant.
Kiro: I just simply wanted to be the best, to be first.
Looking at his smiling eyes, I couldn’t help pinching his nose.
MC: A very ambitious ghost– *I don’t know what this was meant to be*
Kiro: As you said, being a workaholic is not bad~
He pinches my nose in return and then puts the two empty salad bowls in the sink and starts cleaning.
I blinked and ran to help him clean up the table.
MC: After washing, I’ll help you with the lines, alright?
His soapy hand paused slightly, and after a while, he quickly pecked the side of my face.
MC: Pfft…Are you that happy to practice lines with me?
Kiro: Of course, with your sweet self by my side, I’m jumping with joy. *Changed some wording*
Kiro: So how can I be unhappy when I am soaked in a honeypot~
[Fifth Part]
On the second day, wisps of morning light were hidden behind the classroom door. I pushed it lightly and the sun enveloped my whole body at once, making me feel marvellous and causing my eyes to narrow.
MC: Sure enough, a beautiful day starts by being greeted by the sun.
Kiro: That’s right, today’s practice will definitely be “distinction”. *Changed the word at the end because one of the highest levels of marks you can get in a ballet exam is called “distinction” (at least in RAD)*
Thinking about what Kiro said yesterday, I smiled and wrapped my arms around the nape of his neck.
MC: But before starting, let me say this in advance!
MC: If I look stiff and have two left feet, you must not laugh at me. *Changed some wording*
He looked at me who was close at hand, leaned in and pecked the side of my lips.
Kiro: Okay, but before that, go and change your clothes, alright?
MC: …Clothes?
I followed his gaze and looked back to find a brand new dance skirt on the stool in the classroom.
Kiro: You should know that in addition to office supplies and daily necessities in your suitcase, there are only Spring Festival-themed clothes to be worn here.
Kiro: I don’t have any close-fitting sportswear, so I had to ask someone to buy some overnight.
I walked over curiously and picked up the dance skirt. It was like a cicada’s wings, the thin lace looked gorgeous and comfortable.
MC: Why is this different from the practice clothes in my memory, it looks like a performance costume–
Kiro slightly shrugged his shoulders, cunning in his eyes.
Kiro: Maybe that’s because it was bought for the “princess” I talked to on the phone? ….She’s both cute and fascinating.
MC: ……You really didn’t say that, did you?
He smiled and took off his coat and the practice clothes he had changed into were inexplicably matched with the skirt in my hand.
Kiro: Miss Chips is so silly. Actually, I ordered this skirt online myself overnight.
Kiro: It’s just that my eyes are too picky, so I finally chose the one that I think is best.
Kiro: Of course, the prerequisite for choosing is that it has to match my clothes.
After changing clothes and walking into the classroom, Kiro’s gaze fell on me and he laughed.
Kiro: It’s so beautiful. Now it’s time to invite my Princess Chips to warm up with me~
As he spoke, he led me to the barre and I imitated his movements and put my leg on the barre.
In an instant, I felt my muscles being stretched.
Kiro: Does it hurt?
Kiro walked behind me and lightly stroked my lower thigh with his fingertips which made me tremble uncontrollably.
MC: …No, but it’s a bit ticklish.
Kiro: Then just try to bear it? Your body is left vulnerable to injury if it’s not properly warmed up.
Seeing me nodding my head, he also suppressed his smile a little and helped me warm up earnestly.
His cold fingertips moved from my thighs to my waist and then my butterfly bone. After a while, sweat beads began to appear.
His fingertips are no longer cold, almost as if they were absorbing my increasing body temperature.
It wasn’t until the sunlight shifted after a few minutes that I exhaustedly leaned on his shoulder.
MC: Why…is warming up so tiring. I feel that it’s even more energy-consuming than Pilates. *Between the two, Pilates rocked me omg. My body wouldn’t stop shaking after 😖. But ballet warm-ups can be hella intense, too. I had one teacher that used to say that if you’re not pouring sweat after the first exercise, you’re doing something wrong 😅*
Kiro: You can’t stop now, this is just the beginning.
Without waiting for me to make a bitter face, he rubbed my cheek.
Kiro: Or do you not want to feel it?
MC: Of course I do, what should I do next?
At this time, there was a vibrating sound which seemed to be coming from my cell phone on the bench.
I glanced at Kiro, walked over suspiciously and picked it up to find it was Anna calling.
Anna: MC, TN, which had been wanting to talk about cooperation before has finally agreed.
Anna: But the profit they proposed is far worse than our expectation. We don’t even have the authority to plan the programs we cooperate with…It feels like the company has exhausted all its options.
MC: Is there room for negotiation?
Anna: Probably not. After all, TN is an experienced overseas media company, and many domestic media companies want to cooperate with them even after paying money.
My heart sank. Facing this “favourite” in the eyes of the media, I was speechless, so I had to end the call first.
Kiro: What’s the matter? Your expression doesn’t look good.
I don’t know when but Kiro came to my side and rubbed between my brows.
I took a deep breath and briefly explained the incident.
MC: I thought it was good news, but I didn’t expect it to be a sum of money that would almost erase our profits besides increasing popularity.
As I said that, I buried myself in his chest with some distress.
MC: But in the long run, this is a very important step in the strategy of “occupying” overseas markets.
MC: So is it better to agree to cooperate?
Kiro: So you’re conflicted about which option to go with?
MC: After all, it is a matter of choice. No matter which option we go with, I won’t feel very reconciled…
Kiro gently stroked my hair, his eyes filled with light.
Kiro: I don’t think there’s anything to be worried about.
He said this and took me to the barre and put my hands on top of it.
Kiro: MC, in order to achieve our goals, we have to accept that no trade-offs can be made.
Kiro: But it’s not a once-and-for-all decision. Sometimes it’s only an illusion that confuses you.
Kiro: Let you mistakenly think that giving up important things will give you better returns in the future.
MC: Kiro…
Gazing into my perplexed eyes, he just moved closer to me, breathing lightly by my ears.
Kiro: I still remember the teacher telling me in my first ballet class–
Kiro raised my chin with his fingertips, making my breathing stop.
Kiro: Never bow your head so easily.
His eyes are clear and bright in the sun, but also a little fierier.
Kiro: Everyone has their own pride.
Kiro: So we need to continue to maintain it to keep it fulfilled.
No matter how slow I was, I realized that Kiro seemed to care about what he was referring to.
Kiro: And, if you want to let your every move be relaxed and controlled.
Kiro: Then you yourself must first have strength.
In the next second, his fingers moved between my legs. Within seconds, tremors spread all over my body.
Kiro: Squeeze your legs.
Kiro: The strength runs through from the feet to the head, so this way you can stand more firmly and not be easily shaken.
A low but undeniable voice sounded in my ears. I took a light breath and tried to squeeze my legs together according to his words.
I gradually felt his fingertips being squeezed and restrained by my legs, but I still let his fingertips climb up calmly.
Kiro: Your inner strength is not enough, I can still do whatever I want. *Just want to add that this is something that dance teachers stress to their students. Having inner thigh strength is one the most important things to maintaining good balance, along with core strength.*
As if to prove his words, he pulled out his hand and easily picked up my leg with one finger and slowly tightened his palm.
The sudden move made me want to look in the mirror ahead.
He seemed to sense what I was going to do and gently held my jaw. *The position that MC is in is called arabesque*
MC: Kiro…?
Seeing that I was a little surprised, those quiet eyes finally turned into a small smile.
Then he leaned closer and rubbed my shoulder.
Kiro: Miss Chips, remember what I said yesterday?
Kiro: About what exactly I saw in my vision.
MC: Mm…
He smiled lightly and looked into the distance.
Kiro: I’m not actually watching myself in the mirror doing one movement one after another.
Kiro: Nor am I looking at every person and thing in this classroom.
He paused and slowly retracted his palm that was tightly holding my waist.
Kiro: I will look to the end of the distance. *YASSSS!! This is another thing that is taught in dance. You don’t want to just aim your focus at the audience or at an object, you want to project it outside the venue and beyond.*
Kiro: Sometimes there is the sea, the green grass, and the place where I shuttle between cities.
Kiro: They are all my stages.
Kiro: And when I perform on my stage, how can I feel bitter?
Kiro: I just feel satisfied, and I just want to stay on this stage just a little longer.
Looking at the vast sea in his eyes, my heart also ripples like the waves.
It surges endlessly, pushing me to the bright place again and again.
Kiro: Now, do you still feel stuck on which decision to make?
I looked and him and shook my head slightly.
MC: It seems that I no longer am. I know what I should do now.
Seeing that I had an answer, Kiro laughed.
In the next second, he held my waist with both hands like in a classic ballet pas de deux and lifted me into the air.
Kiro: MC, I have one more thing to ask you.
He said this while supporting me to turn and face the window.
Kiro: Can you tell me what the scenery is in your eyes right now?
Following his voice, I looked at everything in my field of vision and my heart began to surge softly.
MC: I…
MC: I see the grass, the sky, and the distance…
MC: I see many beautiful sceneries.
Even though it is an all-too-common scene in front of me, I dare not blink at this moment.
I don’t want to spoil a single bit of it.
Kiro: You said before that if I feel tired, out of breath or frustrated…
Kiro: You’ll be the driftwood that’ll always hold me up.
Kiro: So that I can do whatever I want to the best of my ability.
Kiro: And I’ll be yours.
Kiro lowered me slowly while talking and we were attached to each other without any gaps.
His eyes were shining brightly as if this fine light is enough to light up my whole being.
I couldn’t help but hold his cheeks and smile brightly.
MC: Kiro, you have always been doing something like this for me.
MC: I know you will always be by my side, encouraging and supporting me. So no matter what happens, I won’t be timid.
MC: You have always been my strength. *CRYING RN*
Kiro shook his head lightly with a gorgeous smile on his face.
Kiro: Just this is not enough.
Kiro: I want even more of you.
After speaking, he gently held my head and kissed me tenderly.
His breath is so soft, but it seems to be able to invade my whole world, leaving only the surging sea.
I just lay in the blue ocean, letting it move my body with the tides.
In his arms, I also slowly closed my eyes, feeling his temperature, feeling being surrounded by light–
Because my heart has already crafted the brightest and most beautiful scenery.
Hello~ Thanks so much for your patience, everyone!! 💛
You can find the call that comes before this here!
This translation was done with the power of Duolingo and Google Translate.
The translation below contains spoilers for content that has not yet been released to the ENG server. If you wish to not be spoiled, then please don’t look below the cut.
Enjoy~
*Spoilers for future content below!*
[First Part]
In the colourful cafe, all kinds of shooting equipment are being put away one after another, and the staff are also finishing work.
Because of this alienation turmoil, the media like me and the big star Kiro became extremely busy.
I want to connect with various institutions and become their external mouthpiece, and the entertainment industry where Kiro lives will not miss this opportunity of “collective cuteness”.
He recently participated in a popular science entertainment show called “Furry Cafe”.
The show invited a series of Evol alienated entertainers to shoot with their own small animals in a cafe.
Kiro told me that today was the last day of his “Deacon Bear” filming. I ended my work early and wanted to pay him a surprise visit.
Staff A: Be careful, you don’t want your tail to touch the wire.
Staff B: Who ate durian in the cafe?! ….Oh, it’s your smell, sorry…
Staff C: Tsk, since the addition of a pair of ears, the device's position has to be adjusted accordingly…
The alien transformation of the population has been around for some time, and everyone has adapted to the work rhythm. Everything seems to be no different from normal.
But in sporadic words, there will be a small “friction” under normal circumstances.
I bypass a Mr. Tiger and a Miss Dark Horse as I make my way to the rest area.
After looking around, I didn’t see a “certain little bear”, only Savin.
MC: Savin, how about Kiro?
Savin pointed me in a direction, and my eyes crossed the dressing table and landed on Kiro in the shooting area in front of me.
He folded his arms and looked serious as if he was discussing something with the director.
After a day of filming, the deacon uniform on Kiro was no longer straight and ironed. The tight neckline was loosened, revealing part of his clavicle.
The blond hair maintains the fluffy look that has been set, but the two round bear ears that emerge from the hair are slightly drooping at the moment.
Even if you don’t look at his expression, you know that the owner of the ears is not in a good mood at the moment.
MC: What’s wrong with him? He doesn’t seem to be happy. Did something go wrong during the filming?
Savin: It wasn’t that there was a problem with the filming, but the director just informed him that he would have to come back tomorrow to take a few more shots.
MC: Huh? Do they have to reshoot tomorrow?
If they have to reshoot tomorrow, what about the vacation party I planned with Kiro?
Savin reluctantly spread his hands towards me, and the long kangaroo tail behind him also patted the ground anxiously. *Savin as a kangaroo is perfect lol. Great for beating the snacks out of Kiro’s hands XD*
Savin: Not to mention, the plan has not kept up with the changes recently.
Savin: The duration of this alienation is only one month, and everyone wants to do everything they can. I can get more exposure during the period. Alas, Kiro has only slept for four or five hours these past few days.
Savin: He was supposed to have a live broadcast the day after tomorrow, but it was urgently changed to tonight, and he had to rush to the live broadcast after he took his makeup off…
Savin was halfway through his thoughts and suddenly remembered something.
Savin: By the way, did you two make plans to go out tomorrow? Then now…
I smiled wryly and shook my head.
MC: Forget it, his job is more important. We can go out anytime, so I can wait till you’re done…
Kiro: MC, why are you here?
While talking, Kiro had already spotted me from not far away and came over.
I didn’t want Kiro to discover my disappointment, so I looked at him and gave him a big smile.
MC: Let me see the handsome Deacon Bear!
Kiro: Hehe, then you should’ve come a little earlier so that you could’ve seen how I was showing off my skills in the cafe!
Kiro: Anyway, it’s good that you came now.
After saying that, Kiro took my hand and took me towards the director.
Kiro: Director, you don’t have to find anyone else.
Kiro: The most suitable “Miss Maid” in my mind, is her. *Changed some wording*
Miss Maid?
I blinked in confusion, looked back at Kiro, and then at the director.
The director snorted and frowned.
Director: Don’t bring anyone else to deal with me.
Kiro still kept a smile and held my shoulder diligently.
Kiro: Director, she’s not someone I just picked randomly.
Kiro: MC and I have collaborated many times, we know each other very well, and the shooting will be much smoother that way.
Kiro: And look at her height, her looks, and the rabbit ears… Aren’t they a perfect match for me? *SWOONING RN 😍*
As he said that, Kiro winked at me. Although I was confused, I tacitly tilted my head towards him and showed him a “business smile”.
MC: Right.
Director: …………
I have not contacted and cooperated with the director of this show, but I have heard of him.
I heard that his shows are very lighthearted and humorous, yet he is very serious. I didn’t know such a person could shoot so many funny scenes.
Affected by the alienation of Evol, the director also turned into a fat leopard.
The golden leopard’s ear stood upright, just like the sharp eyes he was looking at me with at this moment.
I became more and more uncomfortable as the stare continued. Just when I was about to lose my “business smile”, the director finally nodded.
Director: Okay, it looks really good.
Director: Then you remember to give her the content you want to make up. Tomorrow morning, neither of you are allowed to be late.
Kiro: Yes sir!
[Second Part]
Host: Tonight, we have a very important guest in our live room!
Host: I saw that his name was already being whispered in the audience, he is- Kiro!
Kiro: Hello everyone, I’m Kiro~
The audience was instantly brushed with a bunch of small stars going “ah”. I was also affected by the warm atmosphere and secretly gave him an “Ah, his bear ears are so cute!”. *Changed some wording*
The bouncing star effects sprinkled on Kiro’s shoulders, making him look as if he was sparkling.
After coming out of the shooting scene in the cafe, Kiro and I rushed to the studio of the live broadcast room without stopping.
Putting on makeup, checking the process, getting familiar with the problems… Kiro didn’t have any rest time. And even during a meal break, he just ate half a protein bar between styling.
Despite the chaos behind him, he is still flawless in front of the camera at this moment without any trace of fatigue.
Kiro: This seems to be the first time I’ve met you in a live broadcast after my alienation. I wonder how the little sodas are doing recently?
The audience was again full of “Very good, how about you?”.
Kiro: Me? Umm…
Kiro: Actually, I was also shocked when the Evol alienation first happened. I was a little frustrated at first, although I later got used to it. I grew up with a bear for myself, so I was a little disappointed with the bear ears. *wording*
Host: Huh, why?
Kiro: Because I think I should be a more powerful animal… like a T-Rex! Rawr!
Kiro made a pompous expression, causing the audience to bust out laughing, including me.
Kiro: But now that I think about the bear, I think it suits me well as it’s pretty. Its scent is also very suitable.
Host: That’s right, speaking of another future alienation, I heard that the scent of Kiro is honey?
Kiro: Not quite exactly… it’s like a mix of a grapefruit, honey and sugar drink!
Savin: Damn, does Kiro have such an accurate perception of his own scent? *His face XD*
MC: Heh…
Under the stage, Savin touched his chin with a surprised expression, and I moved uncomfortably in my seat.
Why the hell did this guy have to say what I said about his scent on the stream?!
To be able to know the smell so precisely and so carefully, of course, from the hair, to the neck, to the fingers… *Gurl, whatcha been up to???*
Thinking of the first few nights after the alienation, the two of us were always sniffing each other’s scents. My face became a little hot.
The host didn’t seem to care and went on to the next topic.
Host: Sure enough, it’s a very sweet smell! I’m a little curious, during this time, has Kiro smelled anything that he likes very much?
Kiro: Of course I have.
Kiro smiled and looked at the camera, seeming to look past it and see me blushing instead.
Kiro: One of my favourite scents is very fragrant, like June’s peach.
(Cut to car)
Kiro: *sighs*
The two-hour live broadcast finally ended, and as soon as I got back into the car, Kiro immediately lay on top of me like a deflated ball.
Kiro: I’m exhausted….
The vague syllables mixed with heat fell on the side of my neck, making my heart melt.
MC: You have worked so hard this time.
Kiro: You also, haven’t had any rest for many days?
MC: I’m a little better than you, at least in regard to today’s work. After the work is done, I can rest for two days.
Kiro: I’m so envious… *whines* If it weren’t for the director’s perfectionist ways, tomorrow’s time would have belonged to the both of us!
Hearing him mutter this angrily, I couldn’t help reaching out and rubbing his head.
My fingers fell through the hair and fell on the bear’s ears, the soft and warm fur made me reluctant to pull away.
MC: By the way, you haven’t told me what I will be doing for tomorrow’s shoot. What am I doing?
Kiro: It’s actually very simple. You will be Deacon Bear's assistant tomorrow. Just interact with the little animals with me, and take a few shots of the dessert making.
Kiro: If it goes well, it can be done in about half a day.
MC: Just half a day? That’s great!
MC: Can we do this in half an extra day? And then go out to play?
Kiro raised his eyes and met my excited gaze, the corners of his mouth raised.
Kiro: *yawning* Well, of course…
The ending of the word “course” was completely covered by the uncontrollable yawning sound, and the usually clear blue eyes seemed to be covered with a layer of mist in the dim car.
He is really tired.
The moment I realized this, my heart tightened and I blurted out.
MC: Forget it, I won’t be going anywhere after filming tomorrow. Let’s go home and sleep.
MC: After all, it’s not easy to arrange any activities in such a short time, it’s better to use it to nourish the spirit…
Kiro: That’s no good.
Kiro interrupted me. He changed his posture, wrapped his arms around me, and pinned me in the corner of the car.
Kiro: I made a date with you, even if the sky falls, I can’t change the plan.
MC: But in your current state, how can you still have energy…
Kiro: Miss Chips, are you looking down on me?
His breath changed a bit, like the ice cubes in the original honey grapefruit drink gradually melted, and the sweetness invaded his breath irresistibly.
Kiro: You don’t have to worry about tomorrow, I will arrange it.
Kiro: As for how much energy I have left… do you want to make sure?
His low laughter fell on my ear, and his enthusiasm ran down my neck.
The narrow space is unavoidable, and I can only let his fingers hold the short rabbit tail behind me, and then mess around. *Idk if GT translated this right, but I’d like to think that he went in for the kill lol*
At this moment, a ray of light from the window fell on the rear-view mirror of the car, and I widened my eyes in the rich and sweet fragrance in confusion.
MC: …Kiro! Wait…
Buzz–
Before the words were finished, the silence of the co-pilot made the driver raise the screen of the car. *Guy knows what’s up lmfao*
Under the dim headlights, Kiro’s smile was full of slyness.
Kiro: There’s no waiting. *Gurl is about to be devoured by a bear 😆*
The space is completely closed.
[Third Part]
Early in the morning, Kiro and I came to the cafe on time.
Perhaps because it was a supplementary shot, there were very few staff members who came today. At first glance, they were basically insiders who knew my relationship with Kiro.
My eyes scanned the cafe, and I was immediately drawn to the bear behind the fence in the corner of the hall.
MC: Wow!! Such a cute little bear!
The chubby little brown bear is like a soft sesame dumpling, being held in the arms of the caretaker with a small red bowtie around its neck.
I couldn’t help but lean forward, and the little bear stood up behind the fence and stretched out his small paws towards me as if he was not afraid of anyone and wanted a hug. *Changed some wording*
MC: Is it okay if I pet him?
Caretaker: Of course, the bear likes humans. He should like you very much~
MC: Thanks!
I stretched out my hand cautiously, stroked the little bear’s head with my fingertips along the brown fur, and then touched the little bear’s ears.
MC: So soft… Kiro, I didn’t expect his ears to feel the same as yours…!
As I was talking, I turned my head and saw Kiro squatting behind me, looking at me resentfully with puffed cheeks.
Kiro: Miss Chips, there is also a “cute little bear” that you forgot about as soon as you walked through that door.
MC: Pff… sorry, sorry, then I’ll make sure to pet you, too.
I was about to rub Kiro’s head when suddenly a shadow fell between us.
The fat director was holding a cup of coffee, his tail swept around impatiently, and stared at us both coldly.
Director: You haven’t changed your outfit yet, are you planning to shoot again next year?
Kiro and I stuck out our tongues and slipped into the dressing room.
(Cut to dressing room)
Until I sat on the stool in the dressing room, I had some lingering fears.
MC: The director is really scary, staring at him makes me feel like I was caught by the dean when I was in school…
Makeup artist: Ha…
Kiro: Hahaha!
MC: What are you laughing at?
Makeup artist: Is Miss MC meeting Director Ju for the first time?
MC: Yes, I only heard about him in the rumours before, is he very fierce and strict with you?
Kiro: Well, it's really fierce and strict, but also…
Kiro quietly pointed to the director not far away and lowered his voice.
Kiro: Didn’t you notice what kind of animal Director Ju is?
MC: Isn’t he a leopard?
Kiro: Look again, what kind of leopard does he look like?
I turned my head to look at the director and saw that he patted his belly contentedly after drinking his coffee, then took something out of his bag and stuffed it into his mouth.
If I’m seeing this right, it seems to be the dorayaki that is very hard to buy on Huapu Street?
MC: I remember… he kinda looks like the one character before in one of the cartoons I watched, the leopard officer who loves doughnuts!
Kiro: Bingo! No one saw it before, but after the alienation, everyone discovered that Director Ju, like Police Officer Leopard, was actually a super foodie.
Kiro: As long as you feed him delicious food, he won’t be able to say anything serious~
Kiro: So since the discovery of his hidden attribute, no one in the show group is afraid of him anymore.
MC: …So alienation can also make people discover each other’s hidden attributes?
Kiro: Hmhm~ It depends on how you observe.
Having said that, I looked at Kiro curiously.
Kiro had already dressed and was arranging the tie of the deacon’s uniform. He seemed to have noticed my sight, turned his head and gave me a charming smile.
Does Kiro also have any “hidden attributes”?
(Cut to cafe scene)
Director: Well, now that this skylight is just right to connect with yesterday’s footage, let’s officially start shooting!
The camera was quickly in place, Kiro had already arrived in front of the camera with a perfect smile.
Kiro: Welcome to Furry Cafe!
Director: Stop.
The director stared at the screen and shook his head.
Director: Without the guests, Kiro looks too lonely in the camera, so he should take the bears, too.
Everyone hurriedly hugged the little bears, Kiro took a deep breath and smiled again.
Kiro: Welcome to Furry Cafe!
Director: Stop.
Director: There is no sense of interaction, it is too dry, and it is necessary to let the bears perform the feeling of guests.
Indeed, in the camera, Kiro said that he was welcome, but the little bears didn’t respond, they just played around on their own, and the picture looked a little incongruous.
But the caretaker frowned when he heard the director’s request.
Caretaker: Director, our little bears are not domesticated pets and cannot do animal performances.
Caretaker: This is what we communicated before shooting. If you must guide, then please let me be professional.
Director: No, you won’t be able to connect with the people behind you in the camera, and you will wear out.
Caretaker: Why are you so unreasonable?!
The two parties immediately quarrelled. I looked at Kiro, he also gave me a helpless look, and even the faint honey smell on his body didn’t smell as sweet.
Wait– honey…smell…
MC: Director Ju, may I suggest a way to try it?
MC: I’ve heard that bears have a very good sense of smell, and we can hide their favourite things behind signboards to lure them with the scents.
MC: This way the camera doesn’t film anything extra. Would you be willing to try?
The director, who had been sullen, turned to me, and the tail behind him swayed slowly from side to side and then flicked.
Director: MC, you are worthy of being a professional producer, this method is good.
I hid the honey and berries behind the sign and the cameras were running again.
Kiro: I’m Kiro, Deacon Bear, welcome to Furry Cafe!
The smell of berries and honey dissipated, and the playful little bears raised their heads.
They sniffed the air and then scrambled to the counter.
Kiro: What would you like to eat: honey cake, vanilla cream, or walnut parfait?
Bear: *little roar*!
Unable to bear the temptation of delicious food, the little bears stretched out their paws eagerly, as if they were pointing at the menu on the signboard.
There was an impatient bear that grabbed Kiro’s trouser legs and crawled up.
Kiro picked up the bear with a smile and put it on his shoulder.
The clear morning light shone through the glass window on the bright counter, blending his blond hair into a patch of sunlight.
The brown bear sat with the golden deacon, fluffy ears swaying in sync.
The sweet fragrance is overflowing, and it is unclear whether it comes from the stylish jar of honey hidden behind the sign, or from the invisible charm emanating from Kiro.
Kiro: It looks like the guests have already made up their minds about what to eat, right?
[Fourth Part]
After shooting the welcome, the next shot was much easier.
The caretaker guided the little bears to the activity area, and we played various games with them while doing other activities.
Kiro: The eyesight of the bears is not that bad, it is not much different from that of humans…
MC: Not all bears hibernate, for example, the deacon bear next to me does not!
Kiro: If possible, Deacon Bear also wants to hibernate…
MC: Pff, hahaha!
Kiro: And people used to misunderstand that the bears stood up to attack, but they were just watching.
Kiro: For example, the little bear that is standing is observing whether the rabbit maid is hostile to it.
Kiro nodded to me, I smiled and stretched out my hand to the bear.
MC: Hello~
The little bear staggered a few steps, and with a clatter, his thick little paws landed on the palm of my hand.
Director: OK, last shot, let’s go to the kitchen to make dessert!
MC: Did I just hear the director say it’s the last shot?
MC: This progress is much faster than I thought! Didn’t we finish filming in less than half a day?
Kiro shook his head and smiled bitterly.
Kiro: I don’t think he’ll let the two of us go through so easily…
(Cut to cafe)
Director: The degree of the whipping cream is not enough!
Director: What’s the matter with your method, it’s not professional enough at first glance!
Director: I won’t allow you to just pretend, the taste of the finished product must also be delicious!
— Is this the quality of the director as a super foodie?
I looked at the messy kitchen in frustration and let out a long sigh. Kiro reached out and poked my drooping rabbit ears lightly.
Kiro: Tired?
MC: I’m fine, I was just thinking…
MC: Our company is preparing to do a food show next season, should I invite Director Ju to come?
Kiro: Pff…I think you can try. He might appreciate yours.
Kiro: But until then, if the two of us can make the perfect dessert, it should improve his odds of accepting the invitation.
MC: Mm! So let’s keep fighting?
Kiro and I gave each other a high-five, and once again plunged into the “ocean” of eggs, powdered sugar, and flour.
Finally, under the strict guidance of Director Ju, raspberry cake, colourful macarons, and lemon sponge cake were successfully made.
Director Ju flicked his tail and carefully looked at our results when he suddenly looked up at me.
Director: Have you tried it? How does it taste?
MC: Me? Uh…I tasted a little bit and though it was delicious, it depends on whether you are satisfied…
The director laughed suddenly. His ears trembled, and for a moment, his big round face almost overlapped with the cute leopard police officer in that cartoon.
Director: I don’t think it’s delicious, he said you think it’s delicious. Just do it.
MC: Eh? “He said”?
I didn’t understand what the director meant by these words, and his face immediately became serious again.
Director: I see that your hands are covered in cream, hurry up and wash them. I won’t allow such unclean shots!
MC: Yes! Director, I’ll go right away!
After getting along for a while, how could I dare to not listen to him? I rushed to the bathroom.
(Cut to hall)
But when I returned to the hall after cleaning, I found that there was nothing in front of me. The director, the staff, the bears…are all gone.
MC: Where is everyone?
Kiro: The reshoots are over, now it is time for my date with you.
The voice came from behind me, I turned my head and saw Kiro walking from the kitchen with a smile.
MC: Date? Wait…now it’s time for a date?
Kiro: Of course, it's a date here.
Kiro: Miss Rabbit, you are the last guest at “Furry Cafe” today and Deacon Bear is happy to serve you.
He snapped his fingers, and the playful and lively music in the cafe changed into an elegant waltz.
The afternoon sun is not as simple and direct as the early morning but has a layer of laziness and ambiguity.
Kiro motioned for me to push the dessert cart, and he picked up the coffee from the table and walked forward with me.
Kiro: Because I didn’t want to waste all of your time today with the shoot, I negotiated with the director yesterday to make up for the shoot. After that, the venue would be taken care of by me.
His voice was low and apologetic.
MC: So all of this dessert making between the two of us for half a day…
Kiro: Was actually for us.
Kiro: By the way, let me state that the director was very satisfied with the dessert scene and said that he would go back and edit it carefully!
MC: Phew…
No wonder the director said he thought it was delicious, and no wonder Kiro wanted to make the perfect dessert…
Even in such a chaotic space and time, he still managed to surprise me. *wording*
Stepping to the melody, we came to the corner of the cafe.
I don’t know when the balloons were piled up here, but behind the gorgeous dining table, are a bunch of lazy sofas.
I looked at Kiro in surprise, he proudly put the coffee on the table and smiled.
Kiro: I think my guest would prefer this to a formal dining room chair.
MC: Of course! I really like it!
I smiled and took Kiro’s hand, and fell onto the lazy sofa with him.
Soft particles collapse under our bodies, each other’s breath within close distance.
The peach aroma mixed with his honey scent became thick and indistinguishable.
I burrowed into his arms addicted, enjoying the time that was just for the two of us right now.
MC: Speaking of which, I took a closer look at you today and wanted to see how you were different from before the alienation.
MC: It doesn’t seem like you have any hidden attributes…
Kiro: Huh? I thought you figured it out a while ago.
MC: Eh? I didn’t find it…what is it exactly?
Kiro’s kiss landed on my bunny ears, hugging me even tighter.
Kiro: My hidden attribute…is that like those little bears, my will is very unstable, and I can easily be seduced by what I like.
Kiro: For example, this peach-flavoured bunny right in front of me. *THIS PEACH IS ALL YOURS TO GOBBLE UP 😩*
[End]
You can read the call that comes after this date here!
This translation was done with the power of Duolingo and Google Translate.
The translation below contains spoilers for content that has not yet been released to the ENG server. If you wish to not be spoiled, then please don’t look below the cut.
Enjoy~
*Spoilers for future content below!*
[First Part]
It was late at night, and I was huddled in bed bored while swiping through videos. Suddenly, a crisp “ding dong” sounded, and a push notification popped up on the screen.
– [Special Announcement on Weibo] Kiro: This “Wish Collection” event has ended. The one who won the final wish prize is… [Click for details]
MC: ! It’s actually time for the prize draw of this event, let me see who is the lucky one…
Immediately, my spirit came to me, and I stretched out my finger to the link on the screen–
At the same time, an incoming call popped up on the screen, and the moment my fingertip touched the screen, a familiar voice came from the receiver.
Kiro: MC? You answered too quickly, did you stay up all night playing on your phone again and get caught by me?
MC: Pfft- I saw the push notification that the event you held before had a draw, and I want to take part in this grand prize. I hope I win!
MC: After all, what the winner gets is a chance for Kiro to grant their wish, how rare it is~
Kiro: It seems that Miss Chips is quite interested in this event? Then I can rest assured.
MC: Eh?
Kiro: I called you just to say this.
Kiro: Because this wish in the draw was a bit special, I wanted to celebrate the fourth birthday of a little fan named “Nini”.
Kiro: But the other party emphasized that she wanted a relatively cozy and private birthday party, so the address was set at her home.
Kiro: That being said… don’t schedule shoots as much as possible.
MC: Is there a reason for being so mysterious?
Kiro: You can rest assured that the other party provided information very cooperatively, and it should be Nini’s sister according to her age, only…
MC: Savin must still have concerns.
A muffled response came from the other end of the phone.
MC: But even so, Kiro must be very persistent in granting this wish. So he is now thinking…
MC: “It would be great if MC came with me. It would not only convince Savin to rest assured, but also not disappoint the fans.”
MC: Am I guessing right?
Kiro: …correct, correct, correct, correct! Oops, I guess I can’t hide anything from you.
He pretended to sigh helplessly, but his tone was undisguised and lightened.
I can seem to imagine what his expression was like at this time. How could I live up to such a Kiro?
[Second Part]
On Nini’s birthday, Kiro and I showed up at the address of the apartment on time.
After confirming the apartment number again and again, and consolidating the measures to deal with what Savin had told me so many times, I nodded toward Kiro.
Kiro picked up the cake he had prepared and rang the doorbell. Soon, a young girl with a ponytail appeared before us.
Kiro: Surprise–
The girl opened her eyes wide and looked at Kiro in a trance. After a while, she blushed and covered her mouth.
Girl: It’s really Kiro!
Kiro: Hello, I’m Kiro. Next to me is…
MC: I’m his manager, MC, hello.
As I said that, I blinked at Kiro, but he was not surprised.
Kiro: We were invited to celebrate Nini’s birthday. You are the one who contacted us before, Nini’s sister, right?
The girl seems to have come out of her trance, looked at us apologetically and smiled at us.
Girl: Sorry, I’m just so excited. Hello, I’m Nini’s mother.
Perhaps our expressions were too surprised as she seemed to have realized something and waved her hands.
Girl: I think you have misunderstood… come in first. Nini, hurry up, come out and see who’s here!
(In the apartment)
As soon as I walked into the entrance, I heard something jumping down the stairs. There was a sound, and then a small furry head appeared at the corner of the stairs.
Two ears stand high, and a pink tongue hangs out like a soggy noodle. The small lace scarf on the neck is extraordinarily delicate, and it looks like it has been carefully dressed.
As it approached, its round buttocks trembled.
MC: Such a cute little corgi!
Kiro: So chubby, it looks like Mango Shake! *Reference to his Intimate Date*
As if it had seemingly understood the compliment, the little corgi sped up its small steps and jumped down the stairs step by step, its naive look made it so that people couldn’t help but want to approach it.
Girl: Nini, look, your favourite Kiro is here to celebrate your birthday!
Kiro: It’s… Nini?
Seeing us looking at each other, the girl blushed and lowered her head, a hint of guilt and unease was mixed in her tone.
Girl: I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to hide it… and I didn’t mean to answer your questions so vaguely.
Girl: I didn’t expect you to come today. I… I am really surprised and thankful!
The girl’s somewhat bewildered expression cleared up any doubt that we had before. *Changed some wording*
Girl: Nini is not only a pet but an actual child to me. And… she’s a hardcore Kiro fan!
Girl: As long as Kiro appears on TV, she will sit right in front. I can’t even pull her away!
As if to prove that she is indeed a genuine “little soda”, Nini excitedly rubbed around Kiro’s legs.
Kiro squatted down and shook Nini’s paw in a friendly way.
Kiro: Hello, little Nini, nice to meet you. Happy Birthday to you today!
Kiro: I never thought I had a special and lovely “little fan” like you.
Kiro: It’s all thanks to this wonderful fate, right?
Kiro’s voice is gentle and sincere, I can hear him say something to Nini as he gently patted her shoulders.
MC: It seems that Nini has successfully captured Kiro.
Nini opened her grape-like eyes and gently rubbed Kiro’s hand with her soft nose.
Seeing this scene, the girl’s face finally showed a smile.
Kiro: Come on Nini, let’s start your birthday party!
Nini: Woof woof!
Looking at the small and delicate chocolate cake on the table, we fell into a brief silence.
Nini in Kiro’s arms stuck her tongue out, anxiously waiting for her own birthday ceremony. She probably didn't understand what the strange human was thinking.
The girl leaned beside me and whispered.
Girl: Actually, I ordered a special little cake at the pet store, but I don’t know why it hasn’t been delivered yet. If you could stay here, I’d go directly to the store to have a look.
MC: I’ll go with you!
Girl: No, it’s already very troublesome for you! And I didn’t make it clear before.
Kiro: What are you saying so mysteriously?
Kiro and Nini’s heads came into sight at the same time, and their eyes were inexplicably synchronized.
Kiro: Watch us, Nini, she is just going to go out for a bit. *Changed some wording*
Kiro: Although the cake is not perfect, what is important is the sense of ceremony to celebrate the birthday!
Nini sighed in cooperation, Kiro raised his hand quickly, covered the pair of small ears, and lowered his voice.
Kiro: I can’t help but comfort this little gal, I think she’s going to jump up any second.
Kiro: The puppy cake you’re talking about, we’ll pick it up later, okay?
Listening to his urgent tone, I tried my best to hold back a smile, picked up a golden birthday hat from the side, and adjusted it. After adjusting it, I put it on Nini’s head.
MC: Well, the little birthday star’s hat is ready!
Kiro stood up, put on a serious look, raised his palm, and stretched it out to Nini.
Kiro: You sit here, be good, and don’t move. Do you understand? High five!
Nini: Woof!
The fleshy little paw scratched Kiro’s palm twice and then sat on the spot obediently.
Kiro put the four candles on the cake with satisfaction and lit one of them.
The orange halo flickered, outlining his face very softly.
[Third Part]
In the gentle happy birthday song singing, Nini’s birthday ceremony is completed.
At the girl’s request, she went to the pet store to pick up the cake while Kiro and I stayed to accompany Nini.
Perhaps because she didn’t eat the cake, Nini was running back and forth excitedly. Kiro, who was following behind her, finally lost after several rounds of chasing.
Kiro: Phew- Miss Chips, you say she’s so small, so where does she keep all that energy in her little body? It’s almost like when I walk Apple Box and he wants to take me for a run! *Changed some wording*
Kiro: Oh wait, where is she going?
I followed Kiro’s line of sight and saw Nini jumping upstairs strenuously with her short legs, leaving us with a stocky little butt.
Kiro: Oh no, am I falling out of her affection so quickly?
MC: No, Kiro is too charming for that to happen. Have more confidence!
The next second, Nini’s figure reappeared on the stairs with a big bag in her mouth, and she diligently put the bag into Kiro’s hands.
After reaching in the bag for a short while, Kiro took out a can of fresh meat.
Kiro: Clever little ghost, do you want to eat this?
Nini sat obediently at Kiro’s feet, her big eyes flickering.
Kiro slowly opened the tab of the can, but suddenly raised the can when Nini approached.
Kiro: What should you do first if you want to eat meat?
As soon as he finished speaking, Nini raised her two short front paws with difficulty, using the other two short back legs to hold herself up. *Changed some wording*
Kiro patted Nini’s head with great satisfaction and handed over the opened can of meat.
Kiro: Very nice, this can is your reward!
Nini raised her ears proudly, leaned over to take a few bites of canned food, and then turned her attention to the chew sticks in the bag.
Kiro followed her gaze and opened the packaging of the chew sticks and shook it in front of Nini.
Kiro: If you want to eat it, you have to say “thank you” again.
Nini responded with a crisp sound, raised her short front legs, and then unexpectedly put them back down and spun around.
Kiro: Nini, how much skill do you have that I don’t know about?
Nini paused, jumped suddenly, and snatched the chew stick out of Kiro’s hand.
Kiro: Hey, you! This “skill” is not something a good child should learn!
The fluffy little butt seemed to be provocative, but soon after, Nini took out another bag of jerky.
Kiro: Only after you eat this can of food. Be a good girl who doesn’t waste!
Kiro earnestly tried to educate Nini about saving money, but Nini didn’t seem to be interested as her short legs kept digging at the bag of jerky under her feet.
I couldn’t help laughing when I saw Kiro being helpless with this dog.
Kiro: Miss Chips, don’t snicker, come and help me.
I restrained my smile and bent down to get the jerky when Nini suddenly rushed up and took it back, making a threatening cry.
MC: She actually stole it… It seems that Nini is a dog who will not give up so easily.
Kiro: This little gal is really possessive. *kinda like a certain boi with golden retriever energy, lol*
Kiro said, naturally reaching out to straighten my messy hair.
Who would have thought that Nini would suddenly let go of the jerky and run over to squeeze between me and Kiro, making sure to lick Kiro’s hand constantly?
MC: Nini, this is… *not your man, bitch!! 😤*
Kiro had a novel look on his face and reached out his hand to deliberately rub my hair again.
Nini: Woof woof!!
Nini jumped on the spot twice and even rolled over to reveal her fat belly. Kiro had to rub it before she would stop.
I couldn’t help laughing at the realization.
MC: Nini is also very possessive towards you.
Kiro: No way, too much charm is also a trouble.
Kiro pinched Nini’s fat little face and deliberately made a sour expression. The corners of my mouth twitched as a little mischievous idea came to mind.
I walked behind Kiro, put my hands on his shoulders, looked at him defiantly, and then looked at Nini.
MC: Kiro– is mine!
[Fourth Part]
Nini: Arf!
Nini didn’t flinch in the slightest and barked back, making sure to not be outdone.
MC: He’s mine, not yours!
Nini: Ruff!
MC: You two just met today, we have known each other for a long time, you know!
Nini: Ruff ruff!
Listening to me and Nini bickering back and forth, Kiro couldn’t stop laughing.
He picked up the can and the chew stick and handed them to Nini, exaggerated sounds were falling out of our mouths. *Changed some wording*
Kiro: Alright, enough already, stop fighting!
MC: This is a war between me and Nini, don’t interfere!
Kiro: Pfft– come on, Miss Chips.
Kiro leaned towards my ear and whispered something. My ears felt a little hot for a moment and I felt as if I was quietly being favoured. *Changed some wording*
MC: Nini, aren’t you going to admit defeat?
Nini: Woof!
The fleshy front paws rested on Kiro’s legs, and her eyes were still full of confidence.
MC: Nini, look, he’s mine!
In front of Nini, I held Kiro’s right hand.
MC: Look… look!
I walked around in front of Kiro and deliberately sat gently on Kiro’s right leg.
Nini jumped onto Kiro’s left leg without hesitation.
Kiro: Ah, am I hugging from left to right?
Although he said it jokingly, I felt that Kiro’s hand didn’t know where to go.
I didn’t expect Nini to be so obsessed with Kiro. It seems that I will lose to this dog if she doesn’t move.
I tilted my head, looked at the side of the face that was close at hand, and subconsciously pecked his cheek.
Kiro seemed to be stunned for a moment, and when he looked over, I looked away with a guilty conscience.
MC: Nini, do you still dare to fight?
Nini immediately propped her upper body and stuck out her pink tongue to Kiro’s face.
At this moment, Kiro suddenly stretched out his hand, took Nini’s chubby body into his arms, tilted his head and then leaned down.
Before I could react, a warm and soft touch fell on the corner of my lips.
Shallow breathing fluttered on the side of the ear, and a chuckle sounded in my ear–
Kiro: Congratulations to Miss Chips for winning the “Kiro Battle”.
Kiro: This is your trophy, please take it.
After playing with Nini for a while, Kiro and I sat on the floor panting.
Nini still happily walked around us with her short legs and pushed me with her soft nose reluctantly, and rubbed Kiro again.
Seeing that we really had no energy, she went off to play by herself in disappointment.
I turned my head and saw the beads of sweat on the tips of Kiro’s golden hair and the dog fur on his clothes. I subconsciously raised the corners of my lips.
Kiro: What is Miss Chips giggling about? Did I get caught again?
MC: Because I’m looking at you, I can’t help but laugh. After all, seeing Kiro like this is rare~
MC: But you played with Nini for a whole day today. Will Apple Box be jealous? After all, dogs have really keen noses!
Kiro: You reminded me that Apple Box’s always good-natured in appearance, but he gets jealous very easily.
Kiro: Usually whenever I touch another dog outside, he gets unhappy when he finds out.
MC: Then when you go back today with Nini’s scent, he will definitely ignore you, right?
I looked at Kiro, a bit of schadenfreude in my tone.
Kiro: Yes. Luckily… I think I have a solution.
MC: Eh?
Before I could react, Kiro’s whole body was already tilted towards me, getting closer and closer–
The next second, his head was resting on my lap.
Kiro: There we go.
Kiro: How about you let me bring more of your scent home so that Apple Box won’t smell Nini?
Saying that, Kiro rubbed against me like Apple Box, as if to rub in more smell.
From time to time, the soft ends of hair brushed against the skin on my arm, giving an itching sensation.
My heart beat faster involuntarily and I subconsciously reached out and pushed him away.
MC: How could this approach work…
Kiro: I think it should work.
Kiro: If you don’t believe me, try smelling me first?
Kiro said that as he took off his jacket and put me in his arms. My whole vision suddenly turned black and only a fresh, youthful scent was left.
In the dark with a cozy atmosphere, only the thumping of heartbeats was alive and present.
MC: Kiro, you…
“Woosh!”, the dark curtain suddenly pulled away from my world again and a face with a familiar smile gradually became clear in my sight.
Kiro: So, is it just your scent?
MC: I, I’m not Apple Box, how would I be able to smell it? Come on!
Nini: Arf arf!
With a crisp bark, the figure with short legs jumped onto my lap and pushed Kiro away.
MC: This is…
Kiro wanted to lean over again, but received a warning look from Nini.
Kiro: It seems that after you played with her just now, she now thinks of you as property and wants to monopolize you… What a special little gal!
As if to confirm Kiro’s speculation, Nini turned towards Kiro again and barked twice provocatively.
Kiro: Well, since today is your birthday…
Kiro stretched out his hand and a chew stick was stuffed into Nini’s mouth.
Kiro: The chew sticks and cans are yours.
Kiro: But Miss Chips–
Kiro: Is mine alone.
[End]
You can read/listen to the call that comes after this date here!
Hi! This translation contains spoilers for future content that has not yet been released to the ENG server. If you wish to not be spoiled, please don’t look below the cut.
This translation was done with help from my friends, Duolingo and Google Translate lol.
Enjoy~
*Spoilers for future content below!*
[First Part]
MC: So cold.... and painful…
I curled up and watched the man in black walking towards me.
A quarter of an hour ago, Kiro and I split ways to chase the traitor in the Shadow Pavillion. The other party panicked and fled into this dead-end alley.
He had nowhere to go and fought with me for a few rounds. Just when I was about to subdue him, his palm spurred a cloud of green light.
I was caught off guard and the light hit my chest, a sharp pain erupted. I rolled and fell to the ground. *Changed some wording*
The bluestone slab after the rain was bitter cold, and the water vapour blurred my vision.
I don’t know if it was just my imagination but I feel that my body has become strangely light and small, too small to bear the clothes on my body.
Even my line of sight was unusually short, so short that I could only see the mud spots on the toes of the man’s boots.
Man in black: Oh, West Moon Witch is nothing more than that.
Man in black: If you are caught in my hidden power, you will also become a poor little beast.
What does that mean?
I didn’t have time to think about the meaning of the other person’s words. I struggled to escape, but my limbs couldn’t help me.
Seeing this, the man in black slowly pulled out the sharp blade, and I wanted to try my best to give it a last try. Suddenly, a silver light flashed from the other side and stood in front of me.
Kiro: You’re courting death.
The boy’s wrist was folded, and the blade had hit the man’s neck.
Blood spewed out and the man in black fell.
I let out a long sigh of relief, thanking Kiro for coming in time. I wanted to thank him.
MC: Meow~
Huh? What did I… just say?
Kiro heard the sound, he retracted his sword into its sheath, turned around and looked at me.
The young man’s indifferent face showed a suspicious expression for the first time. He fixedly stared at me for a moment, leaned over, and then stretched out his hand towards me.
Before I could react, I felt my spine tighten and my clothes slipped off my body piece by piece.
MC: Meow--
I was picked up by Kiro!
Kiro: ...There’s a cat.
[Second Part]
Cat? What cat?
I lowered my head for unknown reasons, and what I saw were two fluffy snow-white cat’s paws... and a fluffy tail that was waving.
MC: Aoaoaoyi-- (What’s going on!!)
Why did I become a cat?!
Could this be the hidden power of the man just now?!
I looked at Kiro helplessly, but he was obviously more confused than me.
Kiro: Why are MC’s clothes occupied by a cat...?
MC: Meow meow meow! Meow! (It’s MC! I am here!)
I gestured to myself, but he misunderstood what I meant and instead let go of his hand.
MC: --!
The sudden fall shocked me, but the cat’s natural dexterity made me fall firmly on the ground.
Kiro ignored me. He frowned and picked up my clothes and checked them.
Kiro: Didn’t leave any footprints, there is no blood on the clothes…
He groaned and noticed me who was turning around from the corner of his eye. He couldn’t help tapping his tongue gently.
Kiro: What are you doing with me?
MC: Meow meow! (Of course, I have to follow you!)
I didn’t know how to explain my situation to him as I was in a hurry.
Suddenly, I found a puddle of rain from last night accumulating in the depression on the bluestone slab beside it and had an idea.
I leaped over, dipped my paws in the puddle... and tried to write the words “I am MC” in front of him.
However, my claw rubbed a few crooked strokes on the stone slab, and I couldn’t properly write the characters.
Kiro: … Silly cat.
Kiro: I have important things to do and I have no time to play with you.
Kiro only glanced at me and then looked away without interest. He picked up my clothes and got up to leave.
If Kiro goes, I am just a “cat”, how can I find him in the banquet?
MC: Meow- (Don’t go!)
My heart palpitated and I subconsciously flew over and grabbed his trouser legs. The sharp claws that swooped too fast penetrated the cloth and hooked onto his calf.
Kiro: [Pained gasp] …!
A chill came from the top of my head and I raised my head to face a pair of golden eyes that were sharper than the tip of a needle.
These are the eyes that killers have.
My mind feels like it’s falling into an ice cave, my hair standing on end.
The cat instinct in me drove me to turn around and run away immediately, but my steps came to a halt when something caught me. *Changed some wording*
I took a deep breath and forced myself to raise my head and look at Kiro.
The moment our eyes met, Kiro’s pupils flashed a strange dark glow.
Kiro: You…
MC: Meow, meow?... (Does he finally recognize me?)
Before the last sound escaped from my mouth, my limbs were off the ground-- Kiro picked me up again.
I only felt the flowers in front of me and fell into the soft cloth.
After struggling twice, I finally turned over. When I raised my head again, what caught my eyes was Kiro’s long tresses.
He turned his head slightly and looked at me lying on his hood.
Kiro: You can tuck your paws a little, but you have to hold on tight.
In the next instant, he jumped up and took me into the three thousand diners of the Banquet Capital.
[Third Part]
The sound of the wind whooshed, and the sound of people waved from under Kiro’s feet like tidal waves.
Kiro’s footsteps were extremely steady, I could hardly feel the bumps and could only feel his body temperature comfortably permeating through the cloth.
After the initial shock passed, I also poked my head out of his hood curiously.
MC: Meow…
It turns out that we have already passed through Jiuhuatian Street, and there is San Meng Fang in front of us!
It was too late, the last touch of sunset reluctantly sank from the distant mountains and the eternal lanterns were lit in the square city, opening up the prosperity that belongs to the night.
The position of the assassin was higher than the lights and his figure was hidden among the buildings. If it weren’t for the dazzling blond hair, the whole person almost blended into the night.
But the rush of storms in the capital city of Banquet did not affect the lives of the people too much, and they still lived their own lives.
Hawker A: The last batch of cooking cakes is here, let’s go home and accompany the kids when it’s sold out!
Hawker B: Do you want to buy flowers? The newly picked late magnolia, the hairpin looks so beautiful on the lay’s head!
Obviously, they have been common scenes since childhood, but now is the first time to appreciate all kinds of human life from the perspective of bystanders.
I became more and more curious. Unconsciously, my claws reached Kiro’s shoulder little by little, and couldn’t help but want to see more.
But Kiro’s blond hair is really getting in the way, strands of hair are always rubbing against my cheeks as we move forward, and I subconsciously swat it away with my paws.
On the contrary, the slightly curled hair ends swept across the tip of my nose, and an itch came.
MC: -- Achoo!
Can you even sneeze after turning into a cat?
I was embarrassed and my blood surged up in an instant. If it weren’t for my furry appearance, my face would have been red.
Kiro: ...Hehe.
There was a chuckle in my ear, as fast as a hallucination.
I couldn’t help but crane my neck and all I could see was the handsome, smooth-lined jaw of the boy.
Kiro: What are you looking at?
MC: Mew!
He suddenly frightened me and my ears trembled. I didn’t know how to answer with “cat language”. Kiro had already come returned to the ground and stopped.
I couldn’t figure out what Kiro meant, so I lay stiffly on his shoulders and didn’t dare to move.
He turned his head, held out a finger at me, and rubbed my chin.
Kiro: I forgot to ask, how did you get this hidden power?
MC: Meow...? (So you can see it...?)
Kiro: I saw it earlier.
Kiro seemed to understand my question and answered.
Kiro: There is no cat in the world who is not defensive around me, but there is such a person.
Kiro: Only this one.
Kiro: And…
He paused as if thinking of something interesting, the ice in his eye gradually melted.
Kiro: Many of your small actions when you are a cat are very similar to when you are a human being.
MC: Meow meow? (Are they?)
Kiro: They are.
His voice was determined, but I was frustrated-- I was still scared just now because he couldn’t recognize me!
I snorted, stepping on Kiro’s shoulder and was about to jump off. As a result, he stretched out his arms and pulled me back.
Kiro: Don’t you want to know how to break this spell?
MC: Meow! (Yes!)
As soon as I heard that I could break the spell, I couldn’t even bother to get angry, and immediately flicked my tail and slipped into Kiro’s arms along the palm of his hand.
Upon seeing this, the corner of Kiro’s mouth floated upwards, and then quickly went back.
Kiro: I have seen this kind of hidden power, it can only trap people for a while, at most a few hours before it will break by itself.
MC: Meow meow meow? (So don’t worry about it?)
Kiro: It should be so.
While talking, he turned his waist and sat down on the ridge of a tall building.
Kiro: Since I have to wait a few more hours, just sit with me for a while.
The world is noisy down below, but the atmosphere on the tall buildings is peaceful and quiet.
I was lying on Kiro’s lap, enjoying the rest time that belonged to the both of us.
Kiro’s slender fingers combed my head, and the thin calluses of the fingertips would rub the tips of my ears every time, and I squinted my eyes in pleasure.
MC: Meow meow, meow… (So it seems it’s good to be a cat every once in a while...)
Suddenly, he paused with his finger and put it back.
He stopped while I was enjoying it and I couldn’t help but look back at him.
Kiro looked away a little uncomfortably, the red light of the lantern reflected faintly on his face.
Kiro: I… forgot that you are not a real cat.
I was stunned and then I realized how much Kiro’s behaviour would change if he were to also be a cat. For a while, his paws would be curled up together in embarrassment. *Had to change some of the wording, hope this is right.*
But the cat’s pleasure-loving instinct finally overwhelmed his shyness. I nudged him twice, then turned over and hugged his fingers.
MC: Meow meow-- (Kiro--)
MC: Meow mew- (I want to be touched again-)
It was probably the first time Kiro encountered such a rascal “cat”. His fingertips stiffened and he finally scratched my cheek lightly.
Kiro: It’s strange, I seem to understand what every one of your meows means.
MC: Meow? (Really?)
MC: Meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow! (Then I’ll say Kiro is the most powerful, smartest and handsome person in the world!) *MA HEART*
MC: Meow? (Did you guess it?)
There was a short breath of air above my head and clear laughter sounded.
This is the first time I have heard Kiro laugh like this as a grown-up, like a piece of sweet honey. *Changed some wording*
I can’t help thinking that when I was a kid, I tasted delicious sweetmeat with him. When lying in the golden wheat field, he would talk to me in such a coquettish tone.
MC: Meow, meow… (It would be nice if we could always be the way we were when we were young…)
Kiro: What you said just now, I didn’t understand it.
He patted my head and put me back in the hood.
Kiro: Okay, enough rest, let’s go.
The road back is still very smooth. I am curled up in the hood half-asleep, thinking about--
In those years when a young man walked alone in the dark, did he often sit alone on a building like this, overlooking the world with cold eyes?
[Fourth Part]
After half an hour, we returned to the restaurant.
When the curfew was approaching, the waiter leaned on the door frame, taking a nap;
The storyteller woke up and left, leaving only a few drunk guests lying on the table, muttering to have another drink with his companion.
Kiro walked silently amidst the strong scent of alcohol without disturbing anyone.
My room is the same as when I left. But, from the perspective of a cat, the tables, chairs, beds, and window sills all look very tall.
I jumped off Kiro’s shoulder and looked left and looked again. I can sneak in the place where it’s usually too difficult to do so.
I looked around curiously and couldn’t help but want to share everything I found with Kiro.
MC: Meow meow! (Kiro, look at it!)
MC: Meow! (Those two copper coins! I found them!)
MC: Meow! Meow! (The hairpin I lost last month is actually under the cabinet!)
MC: Meow-- (Ah, there is a mouse hole here. I want to tell the boss--)
Kiro held his arm and watched me run around the room, showing him the same bits and pieces that I found.
When I finally got tired of playing, he gave me a helpless smile, held out his palm, and hugged me.
Kiro: Are you hungry?
I grunted twice and waved my tail to show that I was not hungry.
Kiro: Sleepy?
I gave a big yawn.
Kiro nodded, put me on the bed, and even pulled the quilt over me like a person sleeping.
Kiro: You should rest first. When you wake up, the spell will be broken. I will come back tomorrow…
He didn’t finish his parting words because my paws had hooked onto his gloves.
Careful, yet stubborn.
MC: Meow…
Maybe when I am a cat, I will be more willful and arrogant. I know that he is a streamer that I can’t hold, yet I still want to keep it.
Kiro lowered his eyes and his long eyelashes covered his gaze. After a while, he spoke softly.
Kiro: MC, you’re playing tricks again.
With that said, he sat back on the head of the bed, his blue eyes staring at me earnestly.
Kiro: I will accompany you. In exchange, after changing back tomorrow, tell me what I didn’t understand today.
MC: Meow. (Okay.)
I was satisfied. I put my paw on his hand and said to myself. *Wording was weird here, so I changed it up a little bit*
After I change back, I will tell you everything in my heart.
(Morning Time)
Bird song was the first thing to come into my ears and the sky was already bright.
I yawned, stretched comfortably and looked at the head of the bed.
I feel like… I had a wonderful dream last night.
I seemed to have become a cat, Kiro took me to sit on the tall buildings and admired the night view.
After returning home, he accompanied me to sleep and made an appointment with me…
But now the bedside is empty and there is no warmth beside me. *Changed some wording*
MC: It really was a dream.
An inexplicable loss was in my heart, I sighed lightly and stood to get up.
At this moment, my eyes suddenly stopped and I noticed something flashing in front of me.
Two copper coins and a hairpin that had been lost for more than a month were placed on the table. The morning sun reflected off the metal a bit.
MC: This is…
I picked up the hairpin in a daze. Just at this moment, a creak came from behind me.
I turned my head and saw a vigorous young man push open the window with one hand while his knees rested on the window frame. He gave me an early morning smile.
The aroma of candied fruit came from the paper bag in his hand.
Hi! Just a couple of things before you begin reading:
This date was translated with the help of Duolingo and Google Translate.
This translations contains spoilers for future content that has not yet been released to the ENG server. If you wish to not be spoiled, please don’t look below the cut.
Enjoy~
*Spoilers for future content below!*
[First Part]
The hot pot gurgled and bubbled and the steam hits the tip of the nose, isolating from the cold outdoor temperature.
In the misty vision, Kiro stared at the hourglass on the table, his tight lips revealed his anxiety.
Kiro: It’s ready soon in 3, 2, 1!
The last grain of sand fell and he lifted the lid of the pot gently, revealing the golden flower maw chicken soup.
MC: Wow, so fresh –
Kiro nodded in agreement and picked up the spoon on the table. The round lenses on the bridge of his nose were immediately covered with a layer of steam, just like the old naughty doctor in a cartoon.
I couldn’t help but crinkle my eyes into a smile, look around and lower my voice.
MC: There aren’t many people around, so you can take off your glasses.
Kiro: Okay, then you can help me.
He said, leaning his face over obediently. After I took his glasses off, he put the bowl of soup in front of me.
Kiro: For delicious things, the first bite should be reserved for your favourite person~
MC: You’re right! So we have to drink together.
As I said this, I took the soup spoon and poured it into a big bowl, and carefully handed it to Kiro.
Kiro: MC, let’s use soup instead of beer, and wish our creative hot pot check-in trip goes smoothly!
MC: Cheers!
The mouth of the bowl collided lightly, like a prelude to a winter day.
The decision to check-in for our creative hot pot began with the sudden cold air this morning.
(Flashback)
Before going out for dinner, Kiro and I opened the balcony door and felt the sudden drop in temperature.
When the cold wind passed by, we said three words in unison.
Kiro: Eat hot pot.
MC: Eat hot pot.
MC: But according to the weather forecast, the temperature in the next few weeks will be very low.
Kiro: Then… let’s eat hot pot every day! We can arrange a creative hot pot check-in and taste all the different flavours of hot pot every day. What do you think?
Kiro’s eyelashes fluttered and the look of anticipation on his face made me stretch out my hand and rub his bulging cheek.
MC: Let’s start today!
[Second Part]
After several days of continuous cooling, the first snow finally ushered in.
I took out the small blackboard and wrote down the hot pot restaurants we have checked in at the past few days, preparing for the scoring rundown.
As soon as I finished writing the last shop, I heard the sound of water in the bathroom stop and the sound of clothes rustling.
I turned my head and saw Kiro wiping his hair, water droplets dripping down his exposed upper body. I was slightly shaking. *The character for “god” (神) was in here but idk how it was used in this part*
Sensing my gaze, he tossed his hair and winked at me triumphantly.
Kiro: Look, Miss Chips, although we’ve eaten a lot of hot pot in the past few days, I am serious about exercising and I still have abs!
He walked up to me, showed me the hand that usually grabs me, and gently placed it on his lower abdomen.
The firm and moist touch instantly spread over my fingertips. The skin under my palm was hot and I quickly retracted my hand while blushing.
MC: You don’t want to catch a cold, put on your clothes quickly. I’m waiting for your rating.
He smiled and rubbed my head, took the T-shirt from the sofa and put it on himself.
Kiro: The judge Kiro is ready and the judge MC can start.
I cleared my throat in cooperation and pointed to a restaurant that we ate at yesterday.
MC: I reckon this to be the number one. After all, we drank the soup until we reached the bottom of the pot.
Kiro stretched out a finger and shook it with a serious face.
Kiro: Do you remember why we ate so neatly?
(Flashback)
Kiro: Octopus game?
Waiter: Yes, this plate of sausages can only be taken away if these octopus legs are accurately placed back to their original positions within a minute.
Kiro: So this is just a game for sausages. We want to order rice cakes, do we have to play other games?
Waiter: Yes, today is our team pot activity day. If you don’t want to play games, you can order beef pot.
Waiter: So do you need to change the soup base?
The waiter’s polite smile made my desire for victory and defeat pique little by little. I just wanted to say no when there was a firm response from around me.
Kiro: Don’t change!
Kiro pushed the black-framed glasses on his nose, his eyes were burning with flames.
Kiro: MC, are you confident?
MC: Yes!!
As a result, we both fought and failed repeatedly. Finally, we had this hard-won “lunch” with our hungry stomachs at night
(Flashback ends)
MC: Haha, I think it’s because I’m too hungry, it has nothing to do with the taste itself…
My eyes traversed the blackboard again and the dazzling array of soup bases made it difficult for me to decide for a while.
Kiro: Or, let’s change our mindset and start from the least favourite store. For example, this shouxi pot… seems ordinary?
I squinted and poked his arm.
MC: Do you remember why the experience was so ordinary?
(Flashback)
A lively Japanese food shop with traditional singing and dancing performances in the hall. Kiro and I are sitting in a remote corner, hoping that the pot will boil soon.
Kiro: Let’s stir up the raw eggs first.
This Japanese food shop is very popular. Kiro specially glued two clusters of fake beards in order to conceal himself. The beard moved when he talked, which looked very interesting.
The singing and dancing sounded from far to near. I don’t know when the performance came over and invited him to perform together in singing and dancing.
The offer was hard to pass up and Kiro was surrounded on stage. Before he left, he pouted and motioned for me to help him mix the raw eggs.
Unexpectedly, someone called out his name in exclamation, and a group of diners swarmed around Kiro to take pictures.
So the end of the meal ended with Kiro running away with me as soon as I stirred the eggs.
(Flashback ends)
MC: Wouldn’t it be wrong if you give this spot last place?
Kiro smiled embarrassedly, who was sitting on the floor, tugged me into his arms and rubbed my neck.
Kiro: Shall we score again tomorrow?
Kiro: Isn’t it the last spicy hot pot restaurant left to check in? After eating, we will score together.
I nodded and opened the guide in the memo on my phone.
MC: It is said that the service is great, not only do you need to make a reservation in advance, but there are only five tables every night.
Kiro: In that case, we must overcome all difficulties tomorrow, and we will head to this store!
[Third Part]
The bumpy gravel road reflected a light halo, and it only stayed for a moment before being trampled by footsteps.
Kiro: Are there really hot pot restaurants around here?
I glanced at the navigation, it was a few hundred metres, but it was a calculated route.
MC: Is this… right? The navigation display is telling us to go this way.
Kiro: Well, Miss Chips will continue to be responsible for following the navigation, and I will follow you.
MC: Then follow me, my Mr. Lost~ Ah, it’s time to turn right! *So “Lost” here is “路痴 (luchi)” which translates to “person with a poor sense of direction” lol*
He smiled and turned around, curly blond hair rippling in the air.
Kiro: Yes!
In the end, we went around 18 turns and went down a flight of stairs. *Changed some wording*
The lights lit up the windows and steaming white mist emerged from it like cooking smoke. I couldn’t wait to open the door, the bright scene came into my vision bit by bit.
The antique decoration is very different from the exterior. The screen divides the store into several areas, which guarantees privacy under elegance.
A handsome man greeted us with a polite smile.
Boss: Dear guests, welcome.
Kiro: Kiro’s homemade secret sauce is here~ *The way he said this was so cute*
Kiro exclaimed and walked towards me steadily holding four bowls of sauce.
After checking in a series of hot pot restaurants, I gave him a high degree of recognition for his seasoning skills, which made him extremely motivated.
So he checked the option “No need to actively serve us” on the menu, and ran to the condiment station happily.
I handed him the coke that I had opened in my hand, took the condiments, and sniffed it a few times in front of the tip of my nose.
MC: Kiro Brand Secret Sauce is simply delicious, and you will never get tired of it!
Kiro: I want to adjust the hot pot ingredients for you for a lifetime, and of course I will never tire of eating!
His warm breath touched the tip of my nose and inadvertently stirred my mind.
The steamy heat hazed his appearance and I can only see him constantly putting in new food, measuring and picking it out to put into my bowl.
I smiled secretly, picked up the croquettes he was thinking of, and put them into his mouth.
MC: Ah– open wide.
He glanced at me quickly, his head and mouth tilted towards me at a slight angle.
Kiro: Ah–
I carefully put the balls into his mouth, his eyes lit up the moment he bit them, and he chewed with satisfaction. The hand that served the food never stopped.
His other hand seemed to be looking for something on the table until he touched the bamboo stick of the croquettes. He immediately picked it up and shook it towards me.
Kiro: MC, ah–
I leaned closer to him cooperatively and opened my mouth wide.
Kiro: Oops, the wrong grid was placed!
Kiro suddenly straightened up as he said this, earnestly looking for the dish under the wrong grid, and instinctively raised his other hand. The other bunch of balls swayed back and forth with his movements.
MC: Hold on…
I swayed with him subconsciously, found the right timing, and opened my mouth immediately after hovering for half a second, biting the balls.
As if feeling a strong force, Kiro looked at me in a daze.
With eyes facing each other, the air became a bit solidified, and the hot steam kept rising towards us.
In his azure blue eyes, I seemed to be able to see my astonished expression.
I ignored my hot cheeks, turned my head, and chewed the balls.
MC: Hurry… hurry, my hairy belly is getting overcooked!
Kiro quickly fished out the hairy belly and put it firmly into my bowl, put down his chopsticks, and held the meatball skewer to my mouth again.
Kiro: Sure enough, it shouldn’t be used in two ways.
Kiro: I must now let you finish eating this meatball wholeheartedly and then continue with the rest of the things in the pot.
MC: Pff–
Seeing his serious face, I couldn’t help but laugh while obeying.
The light reflected in his eyes brightly, I lowered my eyes and saw that the food in my bowl seemed to be a bit too much for me to finish.
I curled the corners of my lips, it seemed that there was also a gurgling sound in my heart.
[Fourth Part]
Soon, the cooking came to an end. Kiro was about to get up and go get more condiments as the boss came in with the ingredients.
He looked at the remaining sauce in our bowl and took a sharp breath.
Boss: Oh, why don’t you try this authentic oil dish. If you don’t know how to adjust, please let me teach you~
He led us to the condiment area, then walked to Kiro’s side, seeming to want to demonstrate hand in hand.
Kiro: Thank you, I’ll do it myself~
The boss didn’t insist anymore and looked at me with a smile.
Boss: Do you need me to prepare an authentic oil dish for you?
MC: Ah… that’s troublesome!
The boss naturally walked between me and Kiro, picked up an empty disc, and introduced it to me with enthusiasm.
Boss: Beauty, please look. Our shop uses mill sesame oil, which is made by stone milling at low temperature and low pressure.
Boss: The first step, let’s take a spoonful of garlic mash…
Out of the corner of my eye, I found that Kiro picked up a disc and was silently adding the same seasoning.
He pressed the corners of his lips lightly, looking serious as if what he was holding was more than just a bowl of seasoning.
When we returned to our seats, Kiro put the plate in his hand in front of me and put the sauce prepared by the boss in front of him.
Kiro: MC, try mine. On the basis of the boss, I added something unique to Kiro, which is definitely different from him. *Someone’s jealous lol*
The halo under then lantern dangled across his face, adding a hint of inexplicable emotion to him.
I thoughtfully took a piece of meat, dipped it in the oil dish he prepared and put it into my mouth.
At the same time, he moved closer to me and his fingertips gripped the edge of the table, seeming to be waiting for my answer.
I seemed to understand something suddenly and I pressed the corners of my lips that I was about to raise. I wanted to tease him.
MC: There is also a little bit of spiciness in the scent, which is very good.
MC: But since there is a fair comparison, I want to try the boss’ one.
I picked up another piece of meat, dipped it, and put it in my mouth.
In my peripheral, I saw Kiro holding his breath as if he was waiting for the final “announcement”.
MC: Ahem, I declare that Kiro’s bowl is slightly better.
His brows frowned immediately.
Kiro: How could it only be one thing better, I am not convinced.
I was snickering in my heart. As I was reaching out my hand to pick up the fish tofu and preparing to put it into my mouth, it was suddenly clamped by another pair of chopsticks.
I raised my head to find that my body was completely surrounded by his arms.
The heat of the food slowly crawled along his fingertips, blurring his expression.
Thinking that he was deliberately teasing me because he was “unconvinced”, I pretended to glare at him.
MC: Kiro! There’s so much other food in the pot!
Kiro’s eyes widened as if he had been wronged and he rubbed his head vigorously.
Kiro: Glutton, this is the fish tofu I just put in, it’s not cooked yet—
I subconsciously clamped the fish tofu in the chopsticks, it seemed to be a bit tough…
After a couple of chuckles, I picked up another shrimp slip again and looked at him tentatively.
MC: What about this one?
Kiro: This is cooked, but it’s not the best one for you. The taste you like should probably be cooked for 10 more seconds.
MC: Your grasp of the ingredients is too accurate…
Kiro: Is it hard?
Kiro tilted his head and pointed thoughtfully at the pot.
Kiro: Potatoes are tasty, so you have to cook them for another minute or two.
Kiro: For pangasius, ah… it just happens to be your favourite taste right now.
He picked up the pangasius naturally and put it into my bowl.
Kiro: Based on all the previous hot pot places we’ve been to, I have done a lot of homework. I remember what flavour and texture you like.
I don’t know when, but the person in front of me has already remembered all of my preferences clearly.
I lowered my eyes and picked up a piece of potato again, letting the red oil on it slip into the bottom of the pot.
Kiro: Wait, I just said that the potatoes you like have to be boiled for a while!
I gently blew on the hot potato chunk and put it towards Kiro’s mouth.
MC: I know, but this is the taste you like.
Kiro’s eyes opened slightly and more fine light poured into them. He opened his mouth slightly and took a slow bite.
Kiro: [cute little chuckle] Really tasty.
When I came back from the bathroom, I found that Kiro wasn’t at the table, but at the condiment area not far away—
His expression was very serious as he quivered them spoon precisely to let the millet pepper fall in just the right amount.
It seems that he promised to make hot pot ingredients for me for a lifetime. It should be no joke at all.
That’s what he thinks, so he has to do his best, even if it’s just a small bit of hot pot seasoning.
Kiro: Miss Chips, I have re-studied the classic oil fish this time and it must be better than the one just now.
The voice of excitement fell in my ears. As I came back, I noticed that he had put the spices in front of me.
I picked up a piece of meat and tasted it. It was delicious. It’s just that my mind surging slightly involuntarily made me shake my head.
Kiro was startled when he saw my actions.
Kiro: Isn’t it tasty? This is the most authentic oil dish…
MC: Maybe the bottom of the pot is better with a saucer, but I still prefer Kiro’s homemade secret sauce.
I paused and threw out the words in my heart.
MC: Who says we may follow the best match, I think we have to choose the way we like best.
MC: If you have to ask me why I like it… I like it because I like it, it doesn’t make sense.
With that said, I took Kiro and walked towards the condiment area, picked up two empty plates and solemnly placed them in his hands.
MC: I want to eat Kiro brand homemade secret sauce!
The refreshing wind came in through the window lattice and gently raised his blond hair. It was as if dancing in response to his inner joy.
He smiled and fixed up his signature sauce. At this time, the boss passed by again and couldn’t help showing a surprised look.
Boss: Handsome fellow and beauty, I told you just now, oil dishes are more delicious!
Kiro and I looked at each other and smiled.
MC: Thank you for your special recommendation, but we still prefer the homemade one~
Kiro put the sauce prepared in his hand under my nose, a bit of pride hidden in his bright smile.
Kiro: Because I like it, I don’t have to be reasonable.
He listened to what I just said, the dense bubble in my heart burst. *Changed some wording*
The word “like” is perhaps the most unexplainable mood in the world.
Hi! Just a couple of things before you begin reading.
You can find the call that comes before this date here!
This date was translated through with the help of Google Translate and the amazing @cheesy09 & @keliosyfan. Thank you!! 💛
This translation contains spoilers for future content that has not yet been released to the ENG server yet. If you wish to not be spoiled, please don’t look below the cut.
Enjoy~
*Spoilers for future content below!*
[First Part]
Above the white clouds, the light shone brightly.
Within the temple, under the gaze of the angels, I walked onto the steps.
Black wings spread out behind me, the colour standing out amongst the pure white wings.
The angels cast their eyes on me with hatred and disgust, but I ignored all their gazes.
I raise my eyes to the blond angel of light upon the high platform.
Kiro embraced the sacred artifact with a solemn expression.
As the messenger of God, the angel of light is the best angel incarnate of the sun.
Kiro: Betraying God is the greatest sin of an angel.
Kiro: Your soul has been tainted black, I will obey God’s will to confine your soul within the sacred vessel, cut out the obsession, and cleanse it once more.
He grabbed me with his cool hands and led me into the cage where the fallen angels were imprisoned.
I watched his eyes through the iron cage, but the burden that had been pressing on my heart for a long time disappeared suddenly.
I smiled at him.
MC: Okay.
A bright light came in from outside the temple. In my sorrow, I recalled the time I spent with him yesterday in the “Forbidden Land”--
(Cut to library)
The sunshine at that time was as brilliant as it was now.
In the heavens, there is a forbidden place.
In order to punish fallen angels and teach the other angels a lesson, God forbids angels to step into the “Forbidden Land”. However…
I quietly hid in a shadowy corner in the library of the forbidden area, quickly flipping through the thick ancient textbooks in my hand.
MC: “Fallen angels are the most terrifying and unforgivable existence…”
MC: “They betrayed God, and as punishment, their pure white wings will be stained little by little like ink until they are all black…”
I mumbled the text from the book, turning my head to the faint black that grew on my wings, feeling very disturbed.
Tomorrow I will attend the regular meeting of Heaven.
During regular meetings, angels will be bathed in holy light, unfurl their wings, and pray to God.
Once the wings are revealed, the contaminated angels will be discovered immediately. They will be locked up in cages, have their souls cleansed, and banished here.
I scanned the books in the library with a complicated mood--
Before I came, I tried many methods, but I couldn’t make the wings white.
So, even though I know that this is a “forbidden place”, this is my last hope.
Before I could think further on the matter, there was a sound of footsteps.
??: Which little angel is so bold and daring to break into the forbidden place all alone.
??: Don’t you know that this place is where angels who have previously fallen come?
I was shocked and I almost dropped the book in my hands.
MC: I didn’t do it on purpose!
I hurriedly put away my wings, but there was a burst of laughter.
A figure walked out from the dark, revealing a smiling face, and my eyes widened in surprise.
MC: ...Kiro, what are you doing here?
Kiro: I was following you.
As he said this, he looked around curiously.
Kiro: So this is the library of the forbidden place…
Kiro: Usually there are angels staring at me but finally I have a chance to see what it is like here.
MC: Are you…
I looked behind him and lowered my voice.
MC: Do you have it now?
Kiro: Now I have a purpose, so they don’t need to follow me.
MC: Purpose?
In my puzzled gaze, Kiro shook his head triumphantly, leaning close to my ear.
Kiro: [sexy whispering] I told them-- I was here to catch you.
[Second Part]
MC: You want to catch me?
I opened my eyes.
Since Kiro was promoted to the angel of light, we have not been able to spend much time together like we used to before.
Although it’s been a bit lonely, I can understand--
As the youngest angel of light in history, he received much praise despite the pressure.
And in order to maintain decorum in front of the angels, he must treat every angel equally on the surface.
Kiro: Don’t worry, that is, close the “little black house” for a few days, and I will accompany you then!
As if not to worry me, he smiled and rubbed my head. In the next moment, the emotion in his eyes became complicated.
Kiro: But lately….it’s been a long time since I saw you.
He didn’t tell me that it was okay, but I was even more aggrieved when he said that.
MC: Obviously, you were very cold to me some time ago, and you always disappeared somewhere…
I raised my head and met Kiro’s apologetic gaze.
Kiro: Sorry. The reason I am doing this is to clarify something and I don’t want to get you involved.
Kiro: But in the end, I still figured it out clearly.
Kiro’s voice was very soft, but it had an unshakeable firmness. The bright sunlight fell into his eyes through the window.
Kiro: Okay, explain.
He raised the corners of his mouth and moved closer to me.
Kiro: Why did you break into the forbidden place?
MC: I…
My heart beats erratically, and I slightly increased the distance between us.
I pressed my lips, and after a few seconds of silence, I unfurled my wings--
In the sunlight, the white feathers were plated with a faint golden light.
But upon a closer look, it looked like paper saturated with ink, a faint touch of discordant black.
Kiro’s eyes widened, and besides surprise, there seemed to be other emotions in his eyes.
MC: Actually… my wings have been tainted black for unknown reasons.
I lowered my head, worried about seeing the disappointment on his face.
Kiro: So… you secretly came here to read the forbidden books, wondering why you fell?
MC: Uh...
Kiro: You can ask me.
MC: ...Huh?
I looked up and found that Kiro was looking at me with a smile.
Kiro: I am the angel of light who is responsible for fulfilling the will of God and purifying the souls of fallen angels. I still know a lot.
MC: But…
But as an angel of light, is it okay to help a fallen angel like this?
Kiro: No buts.
Seeing the worried look on my face, Kiro interrupted me.
Kiro: In addition to being an angel of light, I am also the closest angel to MC in the entire celestial realm, am I not?
The corners of his mouth cocked confidently as if a ray of light slowly dissipated the anxiety in my heart.
Seeing the corners of my lips, Kiro also smiled and cleared his throat first.
Kiro: In fact, there are many reasons for the fall of angels: jealousy, arrogance, greed, laziness…
In his words, I began to seriously think about the reasons for my fall.
Kiro: “Laziness”? Speaking of… we did escape the gathering of angels together.
MC: But we didn’t laze around in bed either! We only left to see the lights of the world.
MC: I still remember that the lights in the human world are very different from heaven. They are colourful!
Memories of the past surfaced in my mind-- Kiro and I were lying on the clouds, leaning over to gaze at the lights in the world.
In the night of the human realm, the lanterns were lit up and the lights were shining. It looked like stars falling all over the world.
And beside me, the breeze blew through Kiro’s bangs, revealing his eyes as brilliant as those lights.
Kiro: I remember you were smiling happily. You also said that if we can go to the human world next time, it would be nice if we could take a closer look.
He glanced sideways at me, paused slightly, and then continued.
Kiro: Then…there is “greed”? For example, taking things that do not belong to you and claim them as your own?
I suddenly felt guilty.
MC: Does that include… secretly plucking feathers from a lark?
*I did some looking up to see if “plucking feathers from a lark” had a special meaning and found this article on Wikipedia. This song should be nostalgic for my fellow Canadians lol. But, what I found interesting about the article was this:
Kiro: Huh? You plucked feathers from a lark?
I was a little embarrassed to explain.
MC: … At that time, I heard that you were promoted to be an angel of light and wanted to give you something.
MC: Because the feathers were very beautiful, I took a few and wanted to make you a quill pen.
MC: But after that, I also fed them a lot of food to apologize…
Kiro: [chuckles] So that’s the case.
The surprise in Kiro’s eyes faded, and a soft emotion replaced it.
Kiro: But I think God is not so harsh, and that shouldn’t be the reason.
MC: By the way, I remember that I saw a “hint of guilt” in the book just now…
Kiro: “Gluttony”!
Kiro and I spoke in unison, and in the next second, we looked at each other and laughed.
Kiro: Hahaha, do you remember the first time we met when we stole honey in the garden?
MC: I remember! Later, we ate all the honey on the tree!
MC: As a result, the angels on patrol found us and banned us from entering the garden for a hundred years.
Kiro: However, I do not regret it at all.
Kiro’s mouth curled up.
Kiro: Because of this, I got to know you.
After a while, he seemed to have thought of something and suddenly turned his head to look at me.
Kiro: MC, do you know? In fact, all these reasons have one thing in common.
Kiro: The root cause of the fall is actually obsession.
Kiro: It’s a feeling of being extremely obsessed with something and an unshakeable desire to own it.
Kiro: Of course…it can also be caused by someone.
Kiro looked at me with inquiring eyes.
Kiro: When did your wings start turning black?
MC: Uh… I don’t know. My wings had turned black before I had even realized it
MC: But my wings will feel ticklish sometimes, like…
MC: Every time I see you, when I think of you…
His eyes widened and his mouth shaped into one of surprise.
Kiro: R-really?
A touch of red rose to Kiro’s ears, and I answered affirmatively.
His lips moved, and a spot of light fell on his distinct eyelashes.
Kiro: In fact, I’ve also felt this way.
He approached me a little bit and his shadow was cast over me.
MC: However, when I think of honey fruits, lanterns, and dark feathers, the same thing happens too...
Kiro: …..
The air became still for a moment.
When I looked up at Kiro, his eyes flashed. His hand covered his lips and he gave a couple of coughs.
Kiro: Anyways, the top priority is to find a way to make your wings white.
Kiro: But it’s too big here. I don’t know how we will find it, and the answer we want may not be here.
I glanced around the large library and couldn’t help but feel a little anxious.
MC: Then...what should we do?
MC: Tomorrow is the meeting day. If I reveal my wings, everyone will find out that I have fallen.
MC: Even if my soul can be cleansed by the sacred vessel, it will be banished here.
I looked at Kiro who was thinking, but I didn’t want to be separated from him.
Kiro: It’s okay. Trust me, MC.
Kiro held my hand as if he had insight into my thoughts.
Kiro: No matter what, I will be with you.
[Third Part]
We walked out of the library, and the breeze brushed across our faces.
It’s not so much a forbidden place but more like a paradise.
There are lush grasslands, woods, and clear springs. Looking around, there is pleasant scenery everywhere.
Suddenly, my sight was drawn to a tall tree.
MC: Kiro, look! Isn’t that the tree with honey fruits that we ate together before?
The light and sweet fruity scent filled the air, making my originally anxious mood slowly relax.
Kiro followed with a smile on his face.
He spread his velvety white wings in the sunlight, looking sacred and unreachable.
An inexplicable loss flooded my heart little by little.
Even though my depravity has not been discovered yet, we seem to already exist in different worlds, looking at different landscapes.
But I immediately concealed this loss. After all, this taintedness has nothing to do with Kiro.
He should not be affected by this either.
Caught in my own thoughts, Kiro’s face came closer to me. His eyelashes were slightly drooping, and his wings had been retracted.
MC: … What’s wrong?
Kiro: It just occurred to me that we can pick the fruit with our own hands like we did when we were young, right?
Under the warm orange sky, we climbed onto the branch.
The refreshing warm wind rushed by, mixed with the aroma of grass and fruits.
I took a honey fruit, wiped it on my clothes, took a bite and handed it to Kiro.
MC: Now that we had a taste, we finally don’t have to worry like before~
Kiro looked at the bite marks on the fruit, as if he also remembered the memory of us stealing the honey fruit, and smiled softly.
Kiro: It is still dangerous now.
Kiro: Did you forget? This is a forbidden place.
Kiro didn’t take the fruit in my hand but instead, he held my wrist. His eyes dimmed which made me startled.
Kiro: When I was a child, I never understood why God would prohibit us from eating such delicious fruit.
Kiro: Now I finally understand.
He looked at the fruit, his eyes filled with emotions that I couldn’t understand.
Kiro: Because of this sweet taste, once you take the first bite, you will want to taste the second bite. Until the dead of night…
Kiro: You can also smell its alluring scent.
The wind blew across the narrow distance between us, carrying his words to my ears.
I looked at Kiro’s profile outlined by the sunlight, and I always felt that there was something hidden by him underneath.
But he only smiled at me.
Kiro: I guess this is probably because God wants the angels to learn not to cling to something.
Kiro grasped my hand and took a bite of the fruit.
Kiro: [munching on the fruit] …I heard that in the human world, only the closest people will eat the same fruit like this.
MC: Is it because you want to share with one another?
I thought about it and continued.
MC: Food, sky, sunshine… and all the beautiful things that we want to share together, like right now?
The warm wind swept across the tip of my nose softly, and I couldn’t help but take a deep breath to fill my lungs with the sweet and intoxicating air. But, I accidentally end up shaking the tree’s branches.
In the next second, my off-centred balance was steadied by a pair of hands. I raised my face to find myself in Kiro’s arms.
Kiro: Whew….that was a close one... *Changed some wording*
His warm breath was close at hand, and Kiro’s eyes were smiling.
Kiro: Not only that.
He continued along with the topic from before.
Kiro: Not only wanting to share all the good things with each other but also just wanting to share with the person in front of you.
His prolonged tone made me a little confused. At this moment, a familiar feeling came again--
MC: Kiro, my wings feel ticklish again…
Holding my hand for a moment, Kiro’s eyes rippled.
Then, he slowly approached me.
His breath, his body temperature, and the sweet and fruity scent mixed in the air all made my mind go blank.
Our hearts pounded like noisy cicadas. *Changed some wording*
Suddenly, I forgot that we were in the forbidden place and the reason why we were here. My eyes were filled and my heart was occupied by him in front of me--
??: What are you doing here?
Kiro and I instantly jumped, looked under the tree, and found that the voice was from an angel on patrol.
??: Why did you enter without permission?
MC: We only wanted to eat the fruit here! We absolutely did not do anything unsacred!
Kiro: We…
Kiro was just about to explain but suddenly realized something.
Kiro: Wait, are you… Poggy?
Hearing Kiro’s words, I decided to take a look, and only then did I recognize this angel is a friend of ours.
Poggy: Kiro, MC, why are you here?
After a brief conversation, we learned that Poggy was the caretaker of the forest.
MC: We just want to taste the honey fruits on the tree. By the way, do you want one? Just pretend you didn’t see us.
MC: I remember you used to like to eat them too.
Poggy: What is a honey fruit?
Poggy looked a little dazed.
Poggy: Angels should not come to the forbidden place. You should leave quickly.
He said this with an indifferent voice and without the slightest emotion.
Kiro and I were both stunned and then looked at each other with mixed feelings.
(Cut to room)
After pondering about Poggy’s strangeness, we went to visit several angels in the forbidden place.
Before we knew it, time had passed, so Kiro and I stayed overnight in the forbidden place.
MC: Do you think that there’s something very wrong with the angels here?
I lay on the hotel bed and looked at Kiro next to me. He nodded.
Kiro: Mm, according to the angels we came into contact with today, they all have the same characteristics.
Kiro: Calm, cool, as well as-- *Changed some wording*
Kiro: In their world, something seems to have been erased.
Kiro said this thoughtfully as if he had guessed something from it.
I didn’t speak for some time. There were too many questions flooding my mind.
After my soul is cleansed, will I become like these angels?
When I see Kiro, will I still be as close to him as I am now?
… Will everything in my life be erased?
I watched the candlelight swaying by the bed. After one day, we still couldn’t find a way to make my wings white again, but my mood seemed to relax.
MC: I definitely won’t be able to escape tomorrow.
I turned sideways, one hand wrapped around Kiro’s waist.
MC: But I already have some very good memories from today.
MC: In the future, we’ll be separated from each other. If you are free, you must come and see me secretly.
I looked up at Kiro. I didn’t know why, but he pressed his lips and suddenly sat up.
Kiro: … I’m gonna ask the owner if there are any extra rooms!
I subconsciously held him tighter and asked in confusion.
MC: Why? Didn’t we often sleep together before?
Although after he was promoted to be an angel of light and we rarely did this.
Kiro: Well…
Kiro’s cheeks were a bit red, like a glass of red wine reflecting onto his cheeks. *Changed some wording*
He wanted to say something, but he met my grieving eyes.
Kiro: … Alright.
MC: Great!
In my excitement, I couldn’t help but flap my wings twice. There was a flash of black in the surrounding light.
MC: What!!
MC: Kiro, how did my wings become blacker?!
I turned my head and was surprised to find that the blackness had spread even further. *Changed some wording*
Kiro was also surprised, but then, the corners of his mouth began to rise slowly…
Then he laughed uncontrollably.
I couldn’t help but puff out my cheeks and throw a pillow at him.
MC: Why are you still laughing at me?
Kiro: Hahaha, sorry sorry.
Kiro: Of course I am not laughing at you.
Kiro grabbed my hand and pulled me into his arms.
He seemed to be very happy. After a while, a very gentle voice came to my ears.
Kiro: MC, will you remember me forever?
MC: Of course I will always think of you.
Although wondering why he asked, I answered immediately.
Kiro: Then, you must always remember me.
Kiro: Even when you fall into the darkness, you must always think of me.
He spoke each word, firm and serious.
Where I couldn’t see, Kiro stared out at the dark night outside the window. The light in his eyes burning brightly
[Fourth Part]
Above the new temple, Kiro raised the sacred artifact in his hand, and the golden light lit up inside it.
I could feel my soul gradually being pulled from my body into the sacred vessel.
The library, the fruit tree, the hotel room...these fragments of time spent with Kiro flashed in my mind.
Then, they faded away, little by little, and the image of Kiro in my heart was slowly submerged in the darkness…
Until it all disappeared.
“Will you remember me forever?”
A voice suddenly sounded in my mind. That was Kiro’s voice.
Kiro…
Like a stone being thrown onto the surface of a calm lake, I started to chant his name over and over.
Kiro, Kiro, Ki…
??: MC.
A familiar voice came to my ears.
??: MC, wake up soon.
In the darkness, those images reappeared, and there was a force gently supporting me.
As if in the darkness, the wine fell into a golden light.
I subconsciously approached it and melted into the gentle light. But, I was surprised by the sight in front of me--
I didn’t know when Kiro entered the cage. He embraced the sacred artifact as if protecting the most cherished thing.
I stretched out my hand, but felt a layer of chains-- my soul was still imprisoned within the sacred vessel.
In my daze, a pure white sacred light fell from above and shone onto the hall of the temple. Before my eyes, Kiro’s figure became blurred once more.
I struggled to get rid of this power from God, trying to touch Kiro in front of me.
Fwish--
-- An arrow shot through Kiro’s wings, cold and determined.
Angel: As an angel of light, you actually disobeyed God’s will!
An angel flew into the air and looked at Kiro angrily.
Kiro ignored the angel and looked at the holy light in the temple.
Kiro: Finally, you have appeared.
He has a self-confident expression, so calm that he doesn’t seem to be confronting God.
Kiro: We have been to the forbidden place.
Kiro: In fact, there is no way to purify the soul and cleanse the evil, right?
Kiro: The sacred artifact can only wipe away the obsessions in the heart, numb the fallen angel, and finally nothing but an empty shell is left.
Angel: Nonsense!
The floating angel couldn’t help interrupting Kiro.
Angel: We are children of God, and He loves every angel. Everything God does is to maintain the normal operation of everything.
Angel: As a superior angel, you not only defended the fallen angel but also blasphemed the gods and committed a great sin!
Kiro: Great sin?
Kiro smiled disdainfully.
Kiro: Then I have committed more than this.
He folded his wings. After a while, he unfurled them again--
Dark wings stretched out behind him, and the golden wine was on it, gorgeous and dazzling.
I looked at everything in front of me in surprise.
Kiro’s wings have also turned black…? When did they turn black? And why?
Could it be… the reason why he suddenly distanced himself from me before?
But my soul is confined inside the sacred vessel, and I can’t say a word about it.
Kiro: My wings were actually darkened long ago.
Kiro: I have been hiding it, disguising it.
Kiro: But now, I don’t want to anymore.
Kiro raised his head with a firm expression.
Kiro: There is only one true evil--that is, betraying one’s heart.
Kiro: Eliminating the obsession will never save any angel.
Suddenly, he held up the sacred vessel, his chin lowered slightly, and the emotion in his eyes softened.
Kiro: In fact, it all started when I first saw the girl eating the fruit, fearing she would be discovered--
Kiro: There was an emotion I never had before until she came.
Kiro: She would accompany me to see the lights in the world, make a quill with lark feathers, and steal honey fruit from the garden with me….
Kiro: I care about her, more than anyone else…
Kiro: I want to have her.
His voice traversed all darkness and light and was conveyed to me.
Kiro: I don’t think this feeling is wrong. *Changed some wording*
There is something clamouring in my heart. Countless pasts appeared before my eyes, gleaming with warm light.
At that moment, I could finally see the obsession hidden in my heart, which was also the reason why I fell.
I also want to have Kiro.
Fwish--
Another arrow shot towards Kiro.
-- Unprecedented power surged from the bottom of my heart, wanting to break free.
The next moment, the sound of the sacred artifact shattering rang out through the temple--
Kiro: …!
MC: It turns out, you are my obsession.
The fragments reflected my pure black wings. I warmly embraced Kiro.
A moment of rapture flashed in his eyes like a stream of light.
Kiro: MC!
Angels: The sacred vessel is broken!
The angels were in an uproar, shooting star-like arrows.
With my wings raised, monstrous flames suddenly rose up, burning the cage that imprisoned us in a blaze.
I wrapped my arms around Kiro, flew over the hall, and looked towards the holy light.
MC: If this is what you think of as “purification”, then I will never follow it.
MC: I will always be with him, whether it’s heaven or hell.
I tightened my arms, and a red light radiated from my hand. I erected a barrier and blocked all the arrows.
I lowered my head, leaning against Kiro’s ear and whispered softly.
MC: Just now in the darkness, I remembered what you said to me--
MC: I have been reciting your name silently, always thinking of you.
Kiro’s eyes flashed as if he had a lot of things he wanted to say.
But in the end, he just held my hand surrounded by sparks and touched it gently against his lips.
Kiro: Welcome back, my fallen angel.
Seeing the fragments scattered all over the ground, the angels showed panicked expressions.
Angel: Impossible…!
Angel: The sacred vessel is a creation of God and no power is strong enough to destroy it!
Kiro: The sacred vessel cannot be destroyed by external forces.
Kiro: But it was created for the obsession of the Forbidden Steel Angels, and it will be disintegrated by the indestructible obsession.
After speaking, Kiro looked at the beam of holy light with a vague expression, but there was a sharp edge hidden in his eyes.
Kiro: You have your rules, and I have mine.
Kiro: Compared to senselessly erasing obsessions and becoming a pure and innocent angel--
Kiro: I would rather face the power of this obsession and be a fallen angel who has feelings and can control myself.
Kiro held my hand back firmly.
Kiro: Even if I am in hell, I will stick to the light.
When the angels heard these words, they were all surprised and their anger simmered down.
And the light of God was surrounded by flames, spreading for a moment and then slowly disappearing.
As the ground shook for a while, the space in front of us changed drastically, and we quickly fell through the thick black fog and into a dark place.
I looked at Kiro--
He has suppressed himself with strength for a long time, so he is becoming a fallen angel more slowly than me.
But even if his wings were dyed black, at this moment, his body was still shining with an extremely bright light.
In Kiro’s hands, numerous light spots suddenly appeared and scattered in the air.
MC: This is…
Kiro: Those are the obsessions of the angels that were “purified” before.
Kiro: Because of the destruction of the sacred vessel, they all floated out.
Kiro suddenly looked down at me.
Kiro: MC, accompany me to the forbidden place and return these obsessions to the angels.
Kiro: These should belong to them.
MC: Yes!
I answered without hesitation.
MC: But it seems that we won’t be able to return to Heaven…
MC: After returning them, do we have a chance to visit the human world? For example... go see the lanterns and eat delicious food?
MC: There are so many things I want to do with you.
Kiro’s breathing became still and his blue eyes were full of affection.
Kiro: Mm, I do too.
He raised his hand and gently stroked my hair.
Kiro: I want to comb this beautiful hair for you myself...
Kiro: I want to greet the first light of morning with you.
His slender fingers moved down slowly as if touching a long-awaited treasure.
Kiro: I want to tell you all my feelings. I want to occupy every one of your gazes;
Kiro: I want to sleep at the same body temperature as yours every night. *I think this might be a euphemism?? 😳*
His voice fell on my ears and fireworks exploded in my heart.
Obviously, Kiro is in front of me, but his body gave off an aura of temptation and bewitchment, making my throat feel a little funny.
MC: Mn…
Kiro held my flushed face with a low smile.
Kiro: It seems that these are too difficult for the current MC to handle.
Kiro: But it doesn’t matter, I will let you get used to them slowly.
He winked at me and carried me to the dark sky.
Dim light leaked in through the thick fog and Kiro looked at me with deep eyes.
Kiro: MC, I want to do all the beautiful things in the world with you.
Kiro: Only with you.
[End]
(You can find the call that comes after this here!)
Hey, everyone! Just a couple of things before you begin reading. I don’t actually know any Chinese so this translation was done through the power of Google Translate. A HUGE shout-out to @keliosyfan and @cheesy09 for helping me with edits and revising. Thank you!!! 💛
Here’s a link to the date video uploaded by @keliosyfan that you can follow along with.
Also, here’s a link to the call that comes before the date.
*TW: I feel like I should note that this date has mentions of human trafficking.*
This translation contains spoilers for a date that has not yet been released to the ENG server. If you wish to not be spoiled, please don’t look below the cut.
Hope you enjoy~ 💛
*Spoilers for future content below!*
[First Part]
??: What are you doing kidnapping her, idiot?!
??: She has been with Helios for so many years, she must be his most important woman.
??: With this woman, we can make him write off his debts and also crush his spirit as a gift to those foreigners.
In the dimness, two male voices drifted into my ears.
My hands were tied behind me, and the rope bore through the cloth on my body. The rough and wet touch made me very uncomfortable.
??: If he really cared about this woman, would he always keep her by his side? Tell everyone that she is his weakness?
??: This woman is a target he bought four years ago to get rid of trash and see who in the city found him unpleasant!
Although I was very certain that these people were telling the truth, after hearing those words, my heart still couldn’t help but ache.
??: This is the end of the matter. This woman can’t stay.
??: Sooner or later, that beast Helios will know what you have done. He would never let us get away with it. *Changed some wording*
??: This person has just been taken away, and Helios won’t be so fast.
The icy sound of a knife unsheathing made me clench my teeth. My whole body shook.
The hemp rope had been cut with the blade hidden in my sleeve, and I waited for the opportunity as it gradually approached.
Even though I closed my eyes, I could always see that person’s face and a pair of indifferent blue eyes.
If I died, would he be sad?
??: Hope... is the most precious thing in this world.
??: Do you want to go with me?
I can’t die yet.
But just before I acted, someone ended up being faster than me.
With a “shink”, it seemed that a sharp weapon pierced the glass and embedded itself into the wooden board. The sudden noise made my heart constrict.
??: Don’t open your eyes.
After an extremely cold and commanding voice sounded, there were shrill screams. In the continuous plethora of sounds, there was the harsh sound of bones being twisted.
I closed my eyes and curled up tightly, worried that this was just a dream.
Until I was hugged in a strong and warm embrace, with the fragrance of smokey tobacco wrapping around me.
I opened my eyes blankly and caught sight of the silver hair that was eye-catching and dazzling in the gloomy thatched house.
Those blue eyes, which were normally calm, were now mixed with a little anger.
MC: ...Am I dreaming?
Helios: Do you often dream of me?
The man gave me a look, held me, and walked out the door. It seemed to be the warehouse of a wine shop.
(Cut to outside)
Suddenly his figure stopped, and I lowered my eyes to find that a man was holding onto his trousers tightly.
??: Mr. Helios, boss, please forgive us this time. We will soon have a big deal, and then we will be accommodated….
Helios: Is the restaurant I run like an orphanage?
Helios: Repaying debts is justified.
He turned a deaf ear to the man’s pleading and the whispers from the bystanders. He moved his long legs, and the man fell to the ground.
At the same time, a group of people began to move in and out of the store.
MC: Should I first….
Helios: Don’t move.
His voice sounded impatient. I blinked and didn’t speak anymore.
After the fight was over, Helios raised the corner of his mouth and gave a slight retort to the kneeling man.
Helios: Mr. Cao, you’re welcome to visit Spring Moon Pavillion next time.
??: You foreign devil, don’t lie! Go to hell!
The curse echoed behind us, and the sound of a solid, steady heartbeat fell upon my ears.
Here, people called him many things-- Mr. Helios, the boss, foreign devil.
No one knew his origins. There was a rumour that seemed to say he was of mixed race.
Most of the restaurants, diners and pawn shops in the city were under his name, and there were many other shady places.
Countless people ate his meals, and countless people enjoyed his turf. They were his business partners, his subordinates, and his debtors.
He was the unspoken ruler of this city.
Everyone here respected him and feared him.
MC: Are you hurt?
I felt the person stepping forward seem to pause, but it was only momentarily.
Helios: No.
I leaned into that somewhat cold embrace, and in my sorrow, it seemed to overlap with the heavy snow from four years ago.
[Second Part]
(Flashback)
I stretched my arms strenuously, trying to grab the flying photograph.
The man behind me tightened the chain on the back of my neck, leaving only the muddy photo in my blurred vision, which ended up crushed with shoe prints on the ground.
Like unforeseen freedom, it broke free, but also decayed. Like my freedom, slowly slipping away with each step.
The world was covered with a film and the insults behind me were drowned out, and only cold white noise remained.
Suddenly, a pair of delicate leather shoes stopped next to the photo, and someone picked it up in the next second.
I blinked slowly, and found an eye-catching and sharp silver light under the extremely gloomy sky.
It was like the first speck of snow that one would find stunning in the late winter, burning straight into people’s eyes, beautiful and cold.
The boy looked around the same age as me, and a pair of azure blue eyes met my own.
The biting cold caused my reaction to delay and another pair of distant and similar pupils appeared before my eyes.
But they were warmer and brighter.
??: Snap out of it!
When my consciousness was pulled back to reality by the pain, I heard screams that did not belong to me. The force that restrained me suddenly disappeared, and I fell directly to the ground.
I reluctantly raised my eyes and found that the silver-haired boy had come over at some point, twisting the man’s wrist with one hand. His gaze shifted from the photo in his hand to me.
??: Did you stay in the orphanage in the east of the city as a child?
I looked at him dumbfoundedly and lost my voice for a moment.
??: Answer me.
MC: [flustered] ….Ye-yes! I stayed there for a year.
The boy’s eyes seemed to light up for a moment because of my answer, and then became alienated in the blink of an eye.
He threw the man aside, lowered his eyes and wiped off the mud from the photo with his white sleeves, then squatted down and handed it to me.
??: I’ll only ask once.
??: Come with me?
I stared at him in a daze, and the roaring from the outside world came to an abrupt end. Only the voice of the boy in front of me and my own heartbeat could be heard.
MC: Ok.
As soon as I spoke, the boy threw a few silver bills at the man.
The heavy snow fell silently, and I was taken into his arms, like a fragmented snowflake.
The blood, water and frost all mixed together, and I heard his voice in the dizziness.
??: Starting today, you are mine.
??: My name is Helios.
??: But I don’t like this name, so don’t call me that.
MC: My name is MC….Then um….what should I call you?
His attitude left me a little perplexed.
Helios: If you have something to say, I will acknowledge it.
Helios: Is that photo important?
In the heavy snow on the quiet road, I lifted my head laboriously, trying to muster a smile.
MC: [smiling affectionately] Very important. He was my best friend in the orphanage and a big star in the city.
MC: Everyone loved to hear him sing. He never cared about who his audience was; he shined nonetheless.
MC: It’s just… He went abroad six months ago, so he must be an even better person now.
The boy’s footsteps froze for a moment as if his feet were bound in ice and snow.
Helios: He’s just an actor.
Helios: A useless profession.
MC: But….it was his smile that gave me strength.
Without him, I would not have been able to hold on till the day I met you.
(End of flashback)
I opened my eyes and turned my head to see Helios sitting on the sofa, casually reading the newspaper. As usual, he should be in the restaurant at this time.
Looking at his profile, the dream I had just now made me a little confused.
It turned out that I had stayed by his side for so long.
He took me back to the small restaurant, healed my injuries and taught me all kinds of things.
Literacy, singing, dancing, medical skills, business….
He was the most ruthless and sharp blade. I had witnessed how he, with his own power, had expanded this small restaurant to its current size in just a few years.
Helios: Get up and eat if you’re awake.
The sudden words interrupted my thoughts. Helios didn’t look up as he slowly took a sip of tea from his teacup. Seeing him frown, I immediately got up from the bed.
The food had been arranged on the wooden table, the temperature just right; neither too hot nor too cold--
Obviously, the people who prepared this had carefully taken time into consideration.
I looked at the man sitting aside from the sidelines and saw the teacup he put aside. I was a little puzzled.
MC: Is that pot of tea not brewed?
Helios: It’s poisoned.
Helios: Tastes terrible.
I almost choked on the spring rolls in my mouth and sighed inwardly at his calm demeanour.
I went up to the cabinet, skillfully took out the bottle of medicine and poured out a pill. I walked up to him and handed it over.
Helios: I won’t die.
After hearing the expected answer, I picked up the pill and brought it to his mouth.
He didn’t open his mouth but stared at me coldly.
MC: You don’t need to stare at me. I’m not afraid of you.
With that said, I continued to pry open his mouth with the pill.
Probably moved by my fearlessness, his mouth finally opened slowly and swallowed the pill.
I smiled with satisfaction and when I turned around to continue enjoying my spring rolls, a pair of cool palms swept over my waist.
The incense stick burned quietly, and a small sigh and familiar body temperature covered me closely from behind.
Helios: Don’t you blame me for using you as bait?
He closed his eyes. His long eyelashes were covered with sunlight and his brows were furrowed.
MC: You taught me that there is no meaningless business in this world.
MC: You bought me. My life is yours.
Helios: That’s the spirit.
The person behind slowly opened his eyes, his pupils full of jest and scrutiny.
MC: Today I just wanted to go to the temple to ask for a peace charm like in previous years.
MC: I was going to go there by myself, but I didn’t want to cause you trouble.
He probably didn’t believe me. Even so, I explained it word by word.
A cool finger stroked my neck and entangled a few strands of my hair.
Helios: How many years have you been with me?
His sudden question had me stunned for a moment.
MC: ….Three years and two hundred and seventy-five days.
Helios: It’s three years and two hundred and seventy-six days.*
*This is a little Easter egg that @keliosyfan spotted.
“When Helios asked MC how long she has been with him, she says "3 years, 275 days" but he corrects her saying "3 years, 276 days". If you put the numbers together you get 3276 which in CN numeric slang means "love Qiluo(Kiro) for life" or "生爱棋洛"So in a way, he wants MC to say "I love Kiro for life"(3276/生爱棋洛). 🥺😭🤧”
Although his voice was faint, it was conclusive.
I thought about it and didn’t argue with him. For me, there was no difference between one more day and one less day.
Helios: Want to leave?
MC: ….?
He laughed suddenly, but only slightly mocking this time.
Helios: I can teach you enough to live a better life.
After that, he stood up. The sudden drop in temperature made me feel a little cold in this midsummer weather.
Helios: Since you want to leave, I won’t stop you.
Helios: But leave before the seventh day of July.
[Third Part]
Helios left after saying this, leaving me alone in the room in a daze.
Compared to his sudden expulsion, I was more concerned about another thing.
The seventh day of July.
What was going to happen on that day?
The annexed restaurants, and suppressed merchants….I know what Helios has been doing for several years.
Would my existence cause him any trouble?
I looked at my bare wrists and couldn’t help laughing at myself.
Maybe I was locked in place by a pair of invisible shackles.
I pursed my lips and walked to the closet to take out the bag hidden in its depths. Perhaps it was just my illusion, but it seemed to have been turned over by someone.
(Outside of room)
Outside the dark room, late at night, I tiptoed over with my bag. There were faint sounds of firm punching and kicking coming from inside the room.
Helios stayed alone here every night, not letting anyone come close.
But this was my hidden secret, and I could secretly monopolize Helios at this moment.
As usual, I opened the window a crack.
In the room, Helios was half-naked, and the small old silver locket hung with silver bells, reflecting sharp lines of bright silver light in the cold moonlight.
His movements were swift and fierce, harder than usual as if he was venting out something.
His wet hair was weighed down, and sweat dripped slowly from his lower jaw and down his strong and undulating chest.
He stood at the junction of light and shadow, with most of his face hidden in the darkness.
The sound of cicadas in midsummer made people feel a little restless, and the silver locket on his chest heaved slightly as he panted hard.
Helios stood there and didn’t move. I don’t know what he was waiting for. *The music from the first Valentine’s Day event starts playing so it’s getting steamy 😏*
In the next second, those blue eyes passed through the window and were firmly locked on me.
MC: ….!
I instantly withdrew my head and squatted down.
Helios: ….Come in.
Helios: I’ll only say it once. *Don’t need to tell me twice!! 😩😩 *
Hearing the slightly stiff tone, I stood up, lowered my head, and pushed the door open. I only took a single step in and then stopped.
Helios: I don’t see you this compliant on weekdays.
MC: ….You knew?! Then why did you never let me go before….
Helios: For my own pleasure.
I suddenly raised my head and found that he had positioned himself right in front of me. His scorching body temperature seemed to be able to cross the distance between us and set me on fire.
MC: I-I didn’t come here today to take a peek, I just….
He lowered his eyes and his gaze flicked across the bag I was holding behind me. His smile melted into a bit of a smirk.
Helios: If you’re saying goodbye, you don’t...
MC: I want you to teach me some martial arts.
I held my breath and did not miss the momentary surprise that flashed through his eyes.
MC: What you taught me isn’t enough.
Helios looked at me condescendingly, his eyes dim. A breeze flitted past my ear as his hand smacked against the door frame behind me.
Helios: Not enough?
In this tense atmosphere, I tried my best not to avoid his gaze.
MC: You taught me a lot, but….it felt like things had become even serious today.
MC: So I…. I still need you.
Before I finished speaking, Helios suddenly grabbed my left wrist from the outside and at the same time stretched out his leg to hook behind me.
When I lost my balance, his left hand instantly reached out to support my waist, and his right hand came out from under my arm and clasped my wrist from the front again.
When I came back to my senses, I found that I had been directly pinned to the floor, and the bag in my hands had been tossed aside.
The entire movement was executed clean and smooth, and there was only the faint sound of the silver bell on the old silver locket swaying in the silent air.
Helios: There are many people who need me in this city.
Helios: I can teach you. Want to learn?
He lowered his head slightly, and the old silver locket grazed my chest, which made me take in a sharp inhale. My entire heart and lungs seemed to be occupied by his breath.
I tried to lift up my wrists and lower limbs, but it wasn’t enough to shake off the person above me.
MC: In this bag is the money that I have saved over the past few years. The money you bought me for back then, plus four years’ worth of interest, will be given to you.
Helios: I’m not short on cash.
MC: If you accept the money, I won’t owe you anything, but I will still help you.
I tremblingly stroked the old silver locket on his chest. It carried his body temperature and made my fingertips hot.
It coincided with the seventh day of the seventh month of the first year we met. For the first time, I heard someone cursing him and wanting him to die.
I had cried and went to the temple to ask for a peace charm and an old silver locket. When I got home, I gave them to him together.
I knew that many people in this city hated him, but I wanted him to be safe.
He had just smiled sarcastically at the time, and I threw it away when he turned around. Who knew that I’d see it dangling on his chest here that night.
The silver bells chimed, just like my unstoppable heartbeat.
MC: You still wear this old silver locket.
Helios: I forgot to remove it.
His hot breath fanned my face, entangling with my own breath in the scorching air.
My fingers followed the silver chain of the old silver locket and stroked his chest. I could clearly feel his taut muscles under my fingertips.
MC: There are many orphans like me in the restaurant.
MC: Those merchants who were suppressed by you could always open new shops.
MC: Underground, the losers will always be the bureaucrats who usually bully others and gain funds out of ill will.
MC: I don’t know why you want to be a bad person in the eyes of the city, but what I see is different from others.
Helios: Ridiculous.
MC: This is what you taught me.
Looking at my smile, he snorted coldly, but the moonlight sneaking in illuminated the faint smile in his eyes.
Helios: You just said it wrong.
He glanced at my bag and lowered his body even further.
Helios: Don’t owe me anything?
Helios: The three years and two hundred and seventy-six days with me were enough for you to repay me?
MC: [confused] You didn’t even see how much there is inside….
Helios: I’ve seen it.
He pulled slightly hard, making me stand up instantly.
Helios: You owe me too much.
Helios: I’ll ask you to settle the tab later.
Helios: However, you do need to learn some self-defence skills.
Unlike his usual touch, his fingertips caressed my eyes, ears, nose and neck.
Helios: People have many weaknesses.
Helios: Eyes, ears, throat, heart…. *The way he said this sent shivers down my spine 😳🥵*
As he whispered, his fingertips kept moving downwards, making me nervously hold onto that hand.
Helios: [more sexy whispering] What’s the matter? Don’t you want to learn?
Helios: I gave you the chance to leave.
Helios: But you refused.
[Fourth Part]
Helios implemented his teaching method, “diligently” teaching from the most basic style, which made me extremely embarrassed.
MC: [flustered] ….Can you put on some clothes next time? *MC, no!! What are you even asking?! You enjoy it and you know it! 🥵
Helios: I can wear what I like.
Seeing the obvious teasing in his eyes, I ran away completely.
Finally, I asked him about what would happen on the seventh day of July, and his expression became a little solemn under the clear moonlight.
Gradually, I became even more sure that this was related to what he had done for so many years.
(Cut to store)
In the early morning of the seventh day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar, a few foreigners in suits and arrogant expressions came to the store.
These people seemed to be a little unkind, and my heart felt uneasy.
Waiter: Miss MC, a guest of the boss, made a reservation at Spring Moon Pavillion.
MC: Let me take care of it.
With a smile, I went to the foreigners and led them to the booth. I didn’t expect that Helios would already be waiting there.
The moment he saw me, his brows lightly furrowed and he tilted his head slightly.
“Leave.”
I blinked and instantly understood what he meant. After the foreigners walked into the booth, they positioned themselves again at the door.
MC: Boss, your guests are here.
After that, I took a step back and then ridicule suddenly rang out.
??: Leaving already?
Unexpectedly, a foreigner walked over, grabbed my wrist and dragged me directly into the booth.
??: Helios, you must have misunderstood.
??: What is the meaning of a group of men when talking about business?
The foreigner smiled sarcastically. I restrained the urge to shoot and looked at Helios cautiously.
In the next second, an invisible cold front flew past my face, grazing the wrist of the foreigner and leaving behind a small, bloody wound.
No one knew when he fired the shot, and Helios was still leaning on the sofa, lazily looking at the wailing foreigner. He made no effort to hide his coldness and murderous intent.
Helios: Next time, it’ll be your head.
Helios: Come here.
I stood cautiously behind Helios, and saw a man in a white suit standing up with a feigned smile.
Foreigner: Just kidding. Don’t get upset, Helios.
Helios: Is that what you learned by spying on me every day?
My heart sank and I tried my best to calm my nerves.
Have these people been spying on him?
Foreigner: Don’t say that, we just need to confirm whether you are worthy of our cooperation.
Foreigner: After all, with this kind of business, ordinary people are not eligible to participate.
Foreigner: But….we also have to look at the sincerity of the boss.
His eyes moved from Helios to me with an arrogant smile.
Foreigner: I heard that you have a well-trained girl who is clever and easy to use. I wonder if you are willing to share?
I was shocked and couldn’t move. I waited quietly for Helios’ answer.
Helios: I can.
The cicadas kept humming noisily, and for an instant, I seemed to be back to that moment from four years ago, when there was only haziness left in this world.
But I just blinked and walked respectfully from the back of the sofa to the foreigners.
It sounded like a serious matter. Maybe he wanted me to be an undercover agent for these foreigners?
Or maybe he just changed his mind again and didn’t need me anymore.
My vision became a little blurred.
Helios: Did you really think I would say that?
Helios’ arms encircled me from behind. His familiar breath came over me, and his voice was filled with pure mockery.
Foreigner: Helios, what do you mean?
Helios: Your nonsense... will anyone still want it?
The foreigner was stunned as if he didn’t expect him to say that. But in the next second, his expression became fierce again.
Foreigner: So it was you who brought those people…!
In the horrified eyes of those foreigners, Helios’ smile became even more ruthless.
Helios: I’ve been tired of looking at the faces of you idiots for a long time now.
Helios: I asked you to come today to settle the account.
At Helios’ signal, I slowly withdrew from the booth.
(Cut to lobby)
I didn’t know what would happen to them next, but maybe something would briefly end today.
I returned to the lobby and asked for the guestbook from the front desk. I wanted to distract myself but there was one face that was stuck in my mind.
Helios won’t get hurt, right?
Helios: ….MC.
Did I trouble him again just now?
Helios: MC.
An impatient sigh sounded in my ears and I felt my figure tilt, and in the next moment, I was trapped in someone’s arms.
Helios: Didn’t you hear me calling you?
MC: Helios….!
Helios: I should’ve said that only you can’t call me by that name.
In this lighted corner, the ambiguous gazes of the other guests in the lobby wandered over to us.
MC: Did you just call me? Wait… Has your matter been resolved?
MC: And let me go first. Th-there are other guests here.
Helios: This is my restaurant.
His fingertips rested on the guestbook, and a faint chilly scent emanated from him.
Helios: Did you really think I would give you to those people just now?
MC: ….
He narrowed his eyes, his voice carrying with it some faint, dangerous warning.
MC: …. I didn’t.
Helios: You’re a terrible liar.
Helios: Why did you walk over?
MC: Because I believe in you. I know you have your reasons.
I couldn’t help holding onto his drooping lapels. At this moment, Helios seemed to reveal all those sharp edges and corners of his heart.
There were only some unfamiliar ones left, which belonged to the insecurities of youth.
Helios: Ridiculous.
As he said this, he pulled me up and walked into the depths of the lobby.
MC: ….Sorry.
Helios: I’m talking about myself.
I looked up in surprise and saw his slightly ironic expression.
Helios: They have a large munitions factory behind them.
His voice was indifferent, but what he said was like a time bomb, going off in my brain.
MC: Munitions factory?!
Helios: Those foreigners have been smuggling arms into the city.
Helios: I couldn’t find the buyers and sellers, but there was always a steady stream of arms that kept coming into the city.
Hearing this, I felt cold sweat ooze from my back.
I knew what the meaning was behind all of this.
I remembered the unfinished words under the hideous faces of those foreigners just now.
Helios had found those people now.
MC: Why…. are you telling me this?
Helios: Because I want to.
In the midst of my wildly racing heartbeat, his words were sure and firm, as if something seemed to be coming to light.
MC: The merchants and bureaucrats that you suppressed were all related to this, right?
Helios’ silence secretly confirmed my suspicions, and my heart couldn’t help but race.
He always carried all the dangers by himself; walking alone in silence.
Why not ask other people for help?
Just as I was about to ask, I immediately thought of the answer.
With the continuous delivery of arms, both buyers and sellers were in the dark, and easy actions against them would only be a surprise.
Did he destroy those arms?
Helios: Strength and weapons are necessary.
Helios: Those who really need it will use them to protect important things.
He said this matter of factly with determined eyes as if understanding what I was thinking in my heart.
We walked through the corridor of the hotel and came to the street from the side door.
The dusk was heavy, the red lanterns softly brightening the sights of the entire street, and it was full of liveliness.
The girls blushed as they cuddled up with their partners under the lights and the crescent silver moon.
Such a quiet night made my nose itch.
MC: If those goods were sold to the original sellers.
MC: What would tonight have been like?
I turned my face to look at Helios by my side. The warm yellow lights shone on the side of his stern face. He didn’t say a word, probably accepting something reluctantly.
MC: What you said about this world… What do you think it will look like in the future?
Helios: There is only brief peace at the moment.
Helios: But suffering will bloom into a flower. (Sidenote: what he means to say is "no pain, no gain." It's one of Kiro's character themes :>)
He raised his head slightly, and the cold moonlight reflected in his blue eyes, like the sea under the moon.
Silent and immense, as if it could contain everything.
Seeing him like this reminded me of those distant eyes.
In a ghostly manner, I took out the crumpled old photo from my purse and held it beside his face.
Helios: Why do you carry this person’s picture with you everywhere?
MC: [smiling affectionately] Because he is special to me.
Helios: And yet you still follow me?
MC: This is different.
Looking at his teasing smile, I snorted at him and looked at the boy in the photo with a warm smile.
MC: You said that when technology advances in the future, this photo will definitely become the colour in my memory.
Under the blue sky, the blond boy was like a passionate golden sun under the eyes of the crowd.
He smiled and seemed to be able to become a source of invincible courage.
He could gather endless amounts of enthusiasm as long as he stood there.
His voice turned into notes and tunes, dancing along with the wind, driving some of the darkness away.
In this devastated generation, he was like a burning flame.
Kiro: I’m Kiro.
Kiro: Thank you for listening to my song.
Helios looked at the yellowed black and white photo, looking a bit dazed for a while, and a little lonely.
Helios: No one in this city remembers him anymore.
MC: I still remember.
MC: Even if the whole world doesn’t, I will remember him.
In those turbulent years, I had always remembered the embers left behind by that meteor.
Once, there was a young man named Kiro who helped me through countless dark and dull times with a smile.
Until the day I met Helios. I gained the strength to live again from this person.
MC: I think you are very similar.
MC: Although your methods are different, you are both using your own strength to illuminate and empower others.
Helios’ pupils contracted unconsciously, and became deeper with my words.
The slowly rising paper lanterns glowed with a gentle light, quietly surrounding us, like a tender embrace.
Helios: You haven’t asked for this year’s peace charm.
Hearing what he said, I suddenly remembered that because of the previous kidnapping, I couldn’t find a peace charm.
MC: Seeing your attitude before, I thought that there was something that was making you anxious, so I kept following you.
Helios: What attitude?
MC: You said I should leave before the seventh day of July. I asked you about it later, but you didn’t say anything. Wasn’t it about that serious matter?
Hearing my question, Helios froze for a moment and then turned his face to the side, his earlobes slowly turning red.
MC: Was that not what it meant?
Helios: ….
He pursed his mouth and the lights shone behind him like a splendid landscape painting.
Helios: Because “weakness” really does become a weakness.
MC: Huh?
Helios: You are the only person here who wants me to be safe and live a long life.
Helios: I was reluctant to wait until the Qixi Festival this year.
Helios: Although, I don’t understand why you would want to wish for peace during the Qixi Festival.
My heart was beating fast, and seeing Helios’ face turned to the side, I found his eyes to be brighter than the stars.
MC: [blushing] Because, because I just happened to run into you at that time. *Changed some wording*
MC: And if it’s the New Year, the wishes would all pile up on top of each other, and God won’t be able to hear them.
MC: During the Qixi Festival, maybe God is used to hearing the wishes for marriage, so he can hear my request for peace without needing it to unheard.
Helios: Then today, in addition to asking for peace, you can also wish for marriage.
Helios smiled slightly with some clarity and sincerity.
MC: ….In that case, a name is needed.
MC: But you never let me call you by this name.
I held my breath nervously and saw his face slowly leaning towards me. I didn’t mind the attention around me, and his breath slowly entangled with mine.
Helios: Let me see.
His protracted tone was a bit tempting and bewitching as if it had lost a thick shell; more naked and intimate than usual, and finally landed on my lips.
Helios: Ki-Ro.
Helios: Please use that name.
End
You can find the call that comes after this date here!