Laying down beside him, you carefully move, not to wake him up. Tucking him in a blanket, you sigh as the cold wind enters the room, reminding you to close the half-open windows. You’re about to get out of bed when he suddenly grabs your wrist. “Don’t go…” He mutters, his other hand reaching out to you and takes you in his arms.
“Don’t…”
Looking at his sleeping profile, you brush his bangs away from his eyes before kissing his cheek. His furrowed brows starting to relax.
“I won’t. I’m not going anywhere.”
You smile as you assure him while wrapping your arms around him. ‘I’ll close the windows later.’ You say to yourself as your burrows your self in his arms, inhaling his familiar scent.
!Spoiler warning! : The followings contain contents for events of Mr. Love: Queen’s Choice/Love and Producer that are yet to be released in Global server. If you do not wish to be spoiled then please refrain from going undercut.
[This is an event for 4th anniversary of MLQC/Love and Producer CN server!]
The translation is undercut. You have been warned about spoilers.
~~~
Prologue :
The winter sun pouring warmly on the balcony of the dessert shop dazzled the array of the desserts on our table.
Kiro pulled up his wig and continued to discuss the topic with me with a great interest.
Kiro : “For cheesecake, you have to eat it with the bottom of the base to experience its beauty!”
MC : “I feel so too! If you eat the cake top part alone, the taste will be monotonous.”
MC : “Speaking of it, why is the decoration of the cheesecake so dull?”
MC : “Obviously, if the chocolate sauce was topped, the appearance would be much better.”
Kiro moved his fingers and pushed down the exaggerated glasses on the bridge of his nose.
Kiro : “Miss Chips, you don’t know anything.”
Kiro : “The point of the cheesecake is its mellow and soft texture. If it is topped with chocolate sauce, the taste will be overwhelming.”
Kiro : “If it is to pair with a drink, the most suitable is black coffee or simply a glass of sparkling wine…”
Seeing the look of Kiro on the opposite side, my heart moved and suddenly I thought of something.
Maybe, this is a good opportunity to collect the materials.
I coughed slightly and raised the camera in my hand.
MC : “This "Love Around The City” event is quite rare, do you want to record our moments with photos?“
Kiro blinked and brought another piece of cake to my lips.
Kiro : "Does MC mean to check in and take pictures in front of landmarks of every location?”
MC : “Don’t be so serious!”
I bit the cake and showed him the photo I just took.
MC : “I mean as long as it is a beautiful moment~”
MC : “Just like this one, I think you looked cute when you introduced the cheesecake so seriously!”
With a bright smile in Kiro’s eyes, he took the camera from me.
Kiro : “Then I should capture one right now.”
Kiro : “Because the moment when Miss Chips smiles at me is the most beautiful moment~”
Kiro : “Hmm let me see, right now the scenery outside the balcony is a perfect angle for the background, okay?….Huh? There’re so many people in that store!”
Kiro and I straightened up, our eyes simultaneously attracted by a long line of shops on the corner of the street.
MC : “Earrings of flowers…It’s a flower earring shop.”
MC : “After we finish eating, let’s go shopping over there too.”
Kiro nodded and after a while, he suddenly thought of something and spoke with slight embarrassment.
Kiro : “But if we don’t start now, our progress of the event will be much slower than others.”
I looked towards the direction of Kiro’s fingers and saw that many people were holding hands and running together with the event flyers of “Love around the City.”
Kiro and I looked at each other and spoke in unison.
MC : “Then let’s put aside the earring shop or something.”
Kiro : “Desserts can be put away for later.”
MC : “I have been looking forward to this event for so long, we must not lose to others at the last minute.”
Kiro took up his scarf and mask in one hand and raised the cup at me with another.
Kiro : “After finishing this cup of coffee, we can set off!”
No cause this boy literally gives me so much courage and comfort. Whenever I felt like I’m of no good, remembering his words always made me feel okay. He feels so real despite not even existing in real life.
He has helped me more than those who do exist around me in real life. :(
For those who are wondering, this is from his Question Box! The words below is his answer to the fan’s message ! <3
I was not gonna pull for this event cuz my luck is always shit but I got Kiro in 40 pulls All those other times he didn’t come home but was saving himself for this particular event and I couldn’t be happier. This is the one and only time I will ever be this lucky. I must thank @link4eva for performing her special summoning ritual Double the thirst is the way to go✊
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!!!
PG/Elex got a LOT of nerve writing this line. Someone on the team was thinking “How can we make Kiro stans happy while also crushing their hearts at the same time?” *rubs hands together*
What are you trying to preach in this game exactly?
IT’S SUPPOSE TO BE A JOYOUS OCCASION, GOD DAMN IT!!!!
Seeing Kiro’s elegant movements, I was frozen in place.
Ever since the proposal of the gala event, I started making preparations according to what was written and I didn’t put too much effort into it.
Maybe it was more than just the dance itself. From the moment the propaganda department said to broaden the scope of the program, I’ve been running it spontaneously.
Thinking of this, my heart skipped a beat for no reason as if something important had been accidentally tossed aside.
Kiro:MC.
I raised my head and saw Kiro standing in the middle of ballroom.
Kiro: If you can’t imagine it, what’s the point of going through with it?
His clear voice reverberated in the hall but there was a certain firmness in his words.
Echoes of the past from cooperation to preparations swirled in my head. I managed to calm my thoughts and said what had been on my mind for so long.
MC: Because the “Loveland City Reconstruction Project’ requires various groups to come together.
MC:The documentary of Cliff Mountain Villa, “Miracle Finder”, renovating the previously destroyed buildings and erecting a memorial to the victims…
MC:This is what Loveland City needs.
MC:Except the reconstruction plan is being pushed in different directions by an infinite number of projects happening at the same time.
MC: Maybe each one is just a small part, but it also has its own meaning and value.
MC:Therefore, people need a show like this. They need this issue of “Miracle Finder”.
Kiro:Since you stated it so plainly, why can’t you imagine it?
I was stunned.
Seeing my reaction, his tone became soft again.
Kiro:Is this truly the “Miracle Finder” you want to have?
Kiro: Or rather, do you really hope Loveland City can balance the relationship between Evolvers and ordinary people so they can coexist?
MC: …I just think the fighting should stop.
Kiro: That’s not an answer.
At this moment, footsteps rang out in the ballroom. In this silence, little by little, it clearly settled in my heart—
Until it came to me.
Kiro:If you don’t make a choice, you will be chosen.
I opened my mouth to say something but nothing came out. Kiro approached me with an intense look in his eyes.
Kiro:For me, I want a world without Evol.
His voice was unyielding and no one could shake him.
For some reason, listening to him speak his mind in such a straightforward manner, I seem to have a vague idea of why but I dare not think about it.
MC: If that’s the case, then why do you still want to be in the show…
At this time, the setting sun had long been replaced by the moonlight outside the window and the faint smile mirrored the cold night.
Kiro: Because I have my own agenda.
Kiro:I don’t believe “destruction” is the best approach.
In the next second, he playfully tapped the tip of my nose.
Kiro:This is my choice. My answer. So, Miss Chips should also have an answer of her own.
He looked at me and took a step back. Then, he reached for the camera, removed the lens cap, and aimed the camera directly at me.
In the brief silence, Kiro stuck his head out from behind the camera.
Kiro:You’ve been frowning a lot lately.
I was startled. Forcing myself, I tried to smooth out the wrinkles between my eyebrows little by little.
MC:That might be because…
MC: ….I suddenly realized that I don’t have an answer.
MC: I’m wondering if PR hadn’t contacted me, would there even be this issue of “Miracle Finder”…
MC: Would those programs I just mentioned and the reconstruction of Loveland City have any meaning?
MC: It’s all just my high-sounding rhetoric.
Like discovering the deep hidden truth I never wanted to admit. My fingers began to shake uncontrollably.
MC: Maybe I’m not as firm as I thought.
MC: I couldn’t even stop you from being involved in the filming of the show.
The string in my heart finally broke. I lowered my head as a cold chill ran through my whole body along the palm of my hand. Bit by bit, it ate away at the fulcrum that always supported me—
The fulcrum that did everything possible to bring strength to everyone slowly disintegrated.
Suddenly, a warmth enveloped me and gently held my face.
Kiro: MC, don’t embarrass yourself like this.
Kiro: Don’t take out all the frustrations on yourself.
Kiro: It’s hard to avoid being affected by those surprises. I’m also in the same boat as you.
Kiro: As long as it’s in the process, don’t lose your inner “self”.
Kiro: It’s a part of us. It may be small, weak, and even easily forgotten.
Kiro: So wherever we go, we have to hold onto it firmly in our hearts.
Kiro: Hold it a little tighter and a little tighter still.
I held onto Kiro’s arm firmly and muttered.
MC:But…what if it’s been lost?
Kiro:Then get it back.
Kiro:For example, I like music. As long as there’s music, the little “me” in my heart will always remind me—
Kiro:Hey, you’re Kiro, not a test subject.
Kiro: I can hold my life firmly in my hands and not let it go astray.
I thought after hearing what he said it would make my heart tighten painfully, but it didn’t.
Because no matter how dark the night was, it couldn’t cover up the calm and bright light in his eyes.
From far away, it looked like the brightest star in the night sky.
Kiro:Do you remember the first time we met four years ago. We made a promise that I would stand in a higher place—
Kiro:And you also agreed to make this company one that’s worthy of working with the international superstar Kiro.
Kiro: I still vividly remember us from back then.
Kiro:But MC, do you still remember yourself back then?
Suddenly, all the lights in the area went out and there was only a faint light coming from the display screen beside him.
It was a little hazy but it still illuminated the dark nonetheless. As if this ray of light was quietly alluding to something.
That’s when I realized what I thought I was firmly on the road to find CORE, to get back to the original world.
But I was so weak that I was forced to go with the flow.
And that sometimes, in my own world, I forget myself.
[Contest of Light and Dark]
Silence pervaded under the moonlit sky and neither of us spoke. Only the sound of our breathing could be heard.
After a long time, when I finally figured it out, I slowly showed a wry smile.
MC:Kiro, I now realized that I seem to have forgotten myself for a long, long time.
MC:There are so many things that must be done and it’s forcing me to run forward.
MC: Even if this is wrong, I will subconsciously tell myself to run faster and faster.
MC: But as I was running, I couldn’t see myself clearly.
Kiro raised his hand and flicked me on my back.
Kiro:Stop denying yourself! It’s normal to lose sight of yourself when something happens.
Kiro:Although it’s difficult to fight it, as long as you keep reminding yourself, you will know what to do next.
MC: Is that what you keep telling yourself?
Kiro:Only in this way can you take the initiative into your own hands.
Seeing his smile, I gently pursed my lips and said nothing.
Maybe he’s right. Running as fast as you can isn’t necessarily the only answer to taking the initiative.
Sometimes you have to slow down and listen to your inner voice.
Little by little, the light of the moon submerged us. I slowly withdrew from his arms and lifted my lips into a long-lost smile.
MC: I think I’ll take a little break to get myself back together.
MC:Calm myself and listen to my inner voice.
Kiro chuckled as he leaned over and pinched my nose.
Kiro:Then let’s go home.
The spring night breeze wrapped us in its warmth as we walked down the ivory staircase side by side.
Not far away, the sound of footsteps came from the bushes and almost at the same time, Kiro stood in front of me with a solemn expression.
My heart skipped a beat as a vague uneasiness filled my heart.
I held my breath and watched as several black shadows emerged, slowly revealing the NW logo on their uniforms under the moonlight.
A man wearing strange clothes lazily stepped out and smiled at me.
Xiao Yue: MC, it must be fate to meet you here. Why is that?
I could be wrong but Kiro seemed to frown.
MC: …Why are you here?
Xiao Yue: Of course, I came because of the video I saw on the internet and I was worried that someone was maliciously sabotaging the plan to rebuild Loveland City.
MC: Is this sort of operation under NW’s control now?
Xiao Yue: It’s because we suspect this matter might be related to someone in B.S.
He paused as he regarded Kiro in front of me.
Xiao Yue: Wouldn’t you agree, Mr. Kiro?
My eyes widened at his words as I looked at Kiro who remained silent.
It seemed like he had already expected this. His blue eyes grew dark as the warmth faded away and all that was left was ice.
However, the tone underneath made the subtle tension even more precarious.
Xiao Yue: Kiro has been listed as a high-risk dangerous member by NW and needs to be investigated.
Xiao Yue: Miss MC, as the boss of Kiro’s company, I hope you will cooperate with us.
MC:That’s not possible. I won’t…
I subconsciously took a step forward. A sudden yet gentle push from the person beside me made me stop before I could say any more.
Kiro:MC.
I turned my head but was caught off guard by a silver stream of light. In the next moment, Kiro was holding a silver pistol tightly in his hand.
With no fear, his clothes fluttered in the wind and the branches and leaves trembled in shock.
Everything was dead silent and Kiro seemed to be the only one in control. His expression was calm.
Kiro: It’s about time you guys showed up.
Kiro: Is NW starting to lose their touch?
Xiao Yue smiled wryly but the look in his eyes was merciless.
Xiao Yue: The course of action is irrelevant. What’s most important is the result.
Kiro furrowed his brow while inadvertently turning his wrist that was holding the gun and fired a silver bullet into the night.
Kiro:I’m afraid you don’t have what it takes to bear this result.
Kiro: Since you were slow from the start, it means you are no longer able to keep up.
Xiao Yue narrows his eyes. He turned sideways and gestured to the people behind him.
Watching them getting closer, I held my breath as I reached for my waist, ready to pull out the anesthesia gun at any moment.
Kiro:MC, don’t forget what I just said.
Kiro stopped me when he saw what I intended to do.
Soon, something passed over me and Kiro raised the muzzle of his gun, reflecting the moonlight, as a flash of sparks exploded—
A barrage of bullets pierced through the air and defiantly brushed the hair near Xiao Yue’s ear.
Kiro cocked his eyebrow as he jumped and landed gracefully on the edge of the ivory gate.
The moonlight was hazy as it washed over him, giving off a silver halo. It was as if he was separate from everyone else.
Kiro:It seems like there is still some use for you.
In the next second, he lips lifted into a smirk and fell backwards, disappearing from sight.
I don’t know how long it took but the operating light on the other side suddenly turned off.
Dr. Dre came towards the glass and nodded to us, signaling that the surgery was a success.
I looked at the bar owner in disbelief and saw him smiling with relief. I finally let out the breath that I’d been holding.
MC:He made it…
I muttered softly, tears streaming uncontrollably down my face.
Boss:MC, do you want to go see him?
Before I could answer, my phone vibrated in my pocket. I glanced hesitantly down at the number and I saw that it was Savin calling.
Savin: MC, it’d be best to come to the company right now. I have something to tell you.
MC:…Is it important?
Savin: Well, it’s better to tell you in person.
The boss seemed to have guessed something and gestured to me.
Boss: Go take care of business. We’ll be here.
I couldn’t help but look at Kiro who had fallen asleep behind the glass.
MC:…I’ll be back soon.
As soon as I arrived at the office, Savin stood up from the sofa.
Savin: A representative from the Publicity Office just contacted me hoping that I can persuade you to let Kiro participate in the filming of “Miracle Finder’s” new show.
Savin: I declined but they insisted so I’ve been looking for someone to fill in instead.
My heart sank. I didn’t expect them to be so persistent.
As if answering my thoughts, my phone rang again and Savin couldn’t help but frown when he saw who was calling.
Savin: They might be calling to pressure you some more so let’s take this opportunity to see what they want.
I nodded and answered the call, putting the phone on speaker mode.
Principal:Miss MC, the script you sent in is quite good and it gave us some ideas.
Principal:I propose arranging a gala in the show where Evolvers and ordinary people can mingle together which is much more in line with our theme of constructing an “ideal city”.
I hesitated to speak after hearing his words.
MC:You want to use this method to make people realize that ordinary people and Evolvers can coexist?
Principal: I expected no less from a professional producer. We have a mutual understanding on the matter.
He emphasized the word “we” as though he was secretly pressing some issue.
It’s not impossible to arrange a ball but somehow it feels a bit calculated.
MC:Perhaps we can provide a few alternatives similar to a ball that you can choose from.
Principal: No. We only want the gala.
I was speechless for a while but in any case, we are the other half of this partnership in the project so we should do our best to meet the other party’s requirements without crossing any boundaries.
MC:…I understand. We will make the preparations as soon as possible.
Principal:That is good to hear. If Kiro can also participate in this gala, it will be the icing on the cake.
MC:Regarding this matter, I definitely will not…
??:I’ll do it.
A sudden voice interrupted me and I turned around to see Kiro walking towards me in long strides.
MC:Kiro?
I held my breath and looked at him in disbelief. He had the same radiant complexion on his face.
What’s he doing here? He just had surgery so he should be resting…
The person in front of me smiled and tapped my fingers, taking the phone from me and continued talking.
Kiro:Hello, this is Kiro speaking. I am willing to participate in the filming of the show.
Kiro:Please contact my agent for any further arrangements.
He hung up and handed the phone back to me.
MC:Why’d you–!
Savin:Kiro, we should sit down and discuss this first, don’t be too hasty…
Kiro smiled lightly, immersed in the warm afterglow.
Kiro: MC, Savin, I’ve already thought about it long and hard.
Kiro:If the appearance of “Kiro” can attract more people’s attention to this program, then I’ll do it.
Kiro: As long as one more person who can watch this episode and one more person who can understand that Evolvers are just like everyone else, then we’ll have achieved our goal.
Kiro:Besides, I was fully prepared to return to the public eye.
Kiro: I was afraid to before but I’m not anymore.
He paused, then gave a bright and confident smile.
Kiro: Because my ears have fully recovered.
Savin’s shoulders tensed up slightly and he raised his eyebrows in disbelief.
Savin: Are you for real?
Kiro gave a lighthearted smile and pointed to empty ears on either side.
Kiro:Yep.
Kiro: I didn’t tell you earlier but I’ve been getting treatment from a highly-skilled medical team so now I don’t need to use hearing aids.
Kiro: I can now clearly hear the voice of my handsome and awesome agent, Savin.
Savin: You little brat…
Seeing Kiro teasing him, Savin stared at Kiro for a long time and then, his shoulders slowly relaxed.
Savin:That’s great…
His voice was a little restrained like he was hiding something. Quickly, Savin pulled out his phone and proceeded to leave.
Savin: In that case, I have to make arrangements for the recording of the show.
Savin:Let them see for themselves that they were wrong.
After Savin left, the office was quiet.
The subtle white noise slowly grew louder in my ears as I lowered my head and stared blankly at my clenched hands.
Everything happened so suddenly that I couldn’t accept it…why is still going in the opposite direction that I want it to?
Why, as the boss of my company, wasn’t I able to get the propaganda department to reject the idea of Kiro appearing in the show?
I kept asking myself these questions, allowing the powerlessness deep inside overwhelm me like an ocean wave.
Until a warm palm pulled me out of the sea.
Kiro:MC, it’s okay.
I couldn’t say anything and could only stare at my balled-up fists in remorse.
Kiro:It’s really okay.
He repeated softly. I frowned and lifted my hand to touch his ear.
MC:What about your ears…?
Kiro: They’re great. They couldn’t have been better.
He said all this so casually but I know there’s a stone in our hearts that prevented us from being honest.
He didn’t want me to worry and so should I.
Even though my fingers were still shaking, I finally touched the tip of his nose as a sort of pretense to appease him.
MC: Kiro, surely you know that City Hall must have other reasons for you to come forward, right?
Kiro: That maybe so but so what?
Kiro:Whatever their purpose, don’t be afraid.
The afterglow seemed close to extinguishing, leaving the last fiery ember glowing warmly in his eyes.
After confirming that Kiro will be participating in the show, the newly added gala session quickly unfolded.
Group Director: Boss, construction for the venue is underway and it’s estimated that the stage art should be finished within a week. Here’s the list of applicants that have been screened for Evol so please look over it.
I nodded as he handed over the list and I started reading each page.
MC:At present, it can be shown that there are plenty of candidates from all ages and each of their Evol also has its own characteristics….
Satisfied, I turned to the next page. While looking at some photos in the file, my eyes stopped on a familiar face.
Isn’t this the middle-aged woman who knocked me unconscious and took the black box?
Before I could ask any questions, Anna rushed into the room. Seeing the worried look on her face, I asked the director and team to leave the office first.
MC:What’s the matter, Anna?
She took out her phone, clicked on a video, and quickly handed it to me.
Fire trucks and ambulances were blaring their sirens as I saw a building in the center of the screen on fire. Several firefighters rushed inside the burning building with water cannons.
MC: Isn’t this the building where the gala is being held?!
[Road Full of Thorns]
Under the thick black smoke, the roaring flames engulfed the building little by little which made me recall the threatening message sent to me not long ago.
My heart racing and I immediately took out my phone to call the event coordinator. When no one answered, I rushed out of the office.
As I watch the numbers go down, I paced around anxiously in the elevator and started to search for trending news articles.
Sure enough, the Internet has already exploded with everyone saying that the cause for the arson is for interfering in the rebuilding of Loveland City.
I tried to control my erratic breathing and quickly called the PR department.
MC: Immediately issue a statement under the name of “Miracle Finder”.
MC:State that this is an accident and is in no relation to anything else.
MC:Make it quick!
When I arrived at the scene, I was completely floored by the sight in front of me.
The glass windows of the building reflected the clear sky. There was no blaring sirens, smoke, or fire.
Only a few staff members were busy carrying light fixtures as they came in and out of the main entrance.
Looking at the video still playing on my phone, I was at a lost.
MC:What’s going on…?
I walked forward in a daze and happened to bump into the coordinator who I tried to call earlier.
Coordinator:Miss MC, what are you doing here?
He was sweating profusely holding a walkie-talkie and looking preoccupied.
MC: …Wasn’t there a fire here?
Coordinator: Fire? Why would there be a fire? We’re very careful.
Coordinator: And everyone is wearing work permits so no one can enter without permission…you don’t look so good. Did something happen?
Taken aback, I shook my head.
MC: No, it’s nothing. You can go back to work.
Kiro:MC!
I looked behind me and saw Kiro running towards me. His forehead was glistening with sweat. He must have saw the video.
Kiro: …That’s strange.
MC:I didn’t expect this video to be a fake. Is this some kind of prank?
Kiro narrowed his eyes and snorted softly.
Kiro:The special effects are too realistic to be a prank.
MC:Are the ones responsible for this trying to stop the filming of the show by swaying the public?
I remembered the comments I saw earlier in the elevator and I couldn’t help but gasp. Kiro’s expression turned dark.
Kiro: If so, they should have accomplished their goal.
Kiro: Right now, many people on the internet are in a uproar and demanding the show be cancelled.
Although the pressure from the public is difficult to resist, it shouldn’t be completely impossible.
Suddenly, I remembered something and quickly called the public relations department to explain the situation and update the current state of affairs as soon as possible,
Since it’s a public opinion war, my company won’t necessarily survive this.
After hanging up the phone, the overhead lights flickered for a moment followed by a chaotic stream of fuses exploding.
Kiro reacted quickly and pulled me behind him.
??: Evolvers and ordinary people can never coexist peacefully.
??: Anyone who wants to bridge the two parties will be punished.
The cold electronic voice echoed through the hall causing the crew members to stop working as they looked around in confusion.
Finally, the sudden “warning” ended with a screech, leaving only dead silence.
At the same time, my phone rang again.
Fire Command Center: This is the Loveland City Fire Command Center. Are you Miss MC?
MC: …I am.
Fire Command Center: We saw a video of the fire online and contacted you based on the public rental venue on file.
Fire Command Center: According to the video, firefighters have arrived on the scene but the records do not show any alarm installation program. We would like to come and confirm this information with you.
MC: There is no fire. That video was forged out of malicious intent….I apologize for the inconvenience!
Fire Command Center: In any case, there are still some things that need to be verified by you so please bear with us.
I nodded and answered their questions one by one. Finally, after giving me a serious 101 lesson on fire safety and awareness, they hung up.
I relaxed my stiff shoulders but before I could catch my breath, I overheard people whispering in the hall.
Worker A: Did you see the video? They’re all saying it’s hindering the Loveland City reconstruction project.
Worker B: So the broadcast just now was a threat directed at us…?
Hearing their voices of uneasiness, I calmed myself and walked to the center of the crowd, bowing deeply.
MC:I’m sorry. It’s my fault for not providing a safe work environment to everyone.
MC:Next time, I will make sure to arrange more suitable security measures in order to ensure everyone’s safety.
MC: Of course, I won’t ask you to leave or force you to stay. Everyone has the right to choose.
MC: But please know that my company will only use the show to bring strength to everyone.
MC:This will never change.
I stared at the ground for what seemed like forever. When I finally raised my head, I felt a warm touch on my back.
Like being given more courage, I straightened myself up even more and looked at everyone directly.
MC:You’ve all worked so hard during this time so you all deserve a well-earned rest.
After a long silence, some employees started to leave one after another. Soon, the slanted shadows cast by the setting sun, slowly moved away from the main entrance.
The hall was completely deserted. I leaned against the wall feebly.
Today’s unexpected turn of events caught people off guard. The video clearly wanted to create pressure from the public.
But who would do this? Is it GR? Or BS?
I looked around feeling at a loss of what to do. How did it come to this?
The reconstruction project that kept being disrupted in every possible way and that mechanical black box which can grant Evol. I haven’t been able to find a direct link between them.
I tried to take a deep breath but I couldn’t stop the questions swirling around in my head.
Something rustled in the wind. I turned to follow the sound and found a stack of papers on the ground.
I picked them up and saw that it was the script for this issue of “Miracle Finder”. There traces of the many revisions still remaining on the pages.
The few sheets of paper felt heavy in my hands. It holds all the hard work and efforts of every team member.
I can’t help but think of “Miracle Finder” that my father filmed back then. On the screen, I saw the awe and joy of the crowd erupting into applause.
But now there are people who want to destroy all of this. Destroy the strength the show brings to people.
Is it because…what I’m doing is wrong?
I kept doing what I thought would make everyone shine, but is that really what everyone wants?
At this moment, I didn’t dare answer this question?
Without warning, I felt that bitterness building up inside me. I gripped the script in my hand, trying to swallow this emotion.
At the same time, clear and rhythmic footsteps came from not far away.
I lifted my head. Kiro stood in the center of the ballroom with his arms raised gracefully as he danced around in circles.
Kiro: MC, is this how you imagined the gala to be like?
The window reflected the afterglow casting faint shadows onto the floor. Kiro stepped on them one after another as he twirled beautifully.
With the last dim ray of light from the sky, he radiates a dazzling light at this moment.
***SPOILERS*** THIS POST CONTAINS HEAVY SPOILERS FOR CONTENT NOT YET RELEASED ON EN SERVER!!! READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!***
Previous translations of Chapter 27: Part 1/Part 2
[Invisible Truth]
I turned on my computer. Since GR has already subscribed to this show, it can’t be taken lightly.
Some time passed and I started to see the process framework take shape. Relieved, I leaned back in my chair.
I wanted to let it go but the image of Kiro flashed through my mind.
MC:…
Recalling that scene in the afternoon when he deliberately pushed me away, I got up and strode out of the office.
When I entered Mondlicht bar, there was still not a single customer. The boss put down the whiskey in his hand and greeted me with a smile.
Boss: Good evening, wasn’t expecting you to be back so soon.
I fixed my eyes on him. Since Kiro chose to have his treatment done here, it must mean that he trusts them.
Likewise, I also have to choose to believe who he trusts. With this in mind, I spoke up.
MC: Boss, is Kiro really getting treatment here?
Boss: I’ve answered this question many times.
I lowered my eyes and pursed my lips.
MC: I’m worried about him. I’m worried that he’s doing something dangerous without telling me.
MC: And if that’s the case, I have to face it with him.
The boss’ smile didn’t fade. After looking at me for a long time, he turned around and motioned for me to follow.
Standing in front of a heavy metal door, he entered a series of passwords and it opened. Through a long corridor, he took me into an elevator and pressed the button for B4.
When the elevator door opened again, I was brought into another corridor. On my right was an entire wall made of opaque glass and he pointed his chin towards it.
Boss: Kiro’s in there now. He didn’t want you to know because….
Before he could finish, an agonizing scream came from the other side of the glass.
Immediately, all the air in my chest was sucked out of me and I froze.
MC:….?
That familiar but heavy cry slowly turned itself into a buzzing sound within my head. I subconsciously wanted to follow the voice but my legs wouldn’t move.
MC:Kiro…?
As if answering me, another scream ripped through the air, piercing my eardrums and I couldn’t help turning my head in question.
MC: This…this is what you call “treatment”?!
Boss: Not too loud or he’ll hear you.
I couldn’t believe it as I took a few steps back but my fingers wouldn’t stop shaking.
MC:What the hell’s going on in there…Kiro, he’s…
Boss: He’s indeed treating his ears but not just that.
I stared at him blankly but he only twitched his mouth into a helpless smile.
Boss: He doesn’t what you to know about this.
MC:Why?
Boss: Everyone has something they don’t want to tell.
Boss: I can only respect his wishes and not say too much
I looked up dumbly, forcing myself to move my legs.
Nothing but darkness greeted me. I couldn’t see anything but those screams were exceptionally clear.
Boss:Today’s treatment is over. He’ll be coming out.
Turning my head in a daze, I saw him walking towards the elevator and stopped. He turned back to me with a meaningful look in his eyes.
I knew. He wants me to pretend that what I just heard never happened.
I lowered my eyes and dug my fingernails into my palm but I didn’t feel any pain.
I sat alone in a corner of the bar.
Reason told me I had to stay calm and act like I didn’t know anything but my thoughts wouldn’t stop spinning in my head.
I wanted to ask him why it was so painful. I want him to tell me why he won’t let me stay with him.
But while all these feelings clamored in my heart, those screams and sounds of retching kept pulling me down.
There are so many things I don’t know and the only thing I do know—he doesn’t want me to know he’s in pain.
Kiro: Miss Chips, what are you doing here!
The sudden, familiar voice made me look up and I saw a golden figure making his way towards me briskly as he had done countless times.
He smiled calmly and naturally as he raised the tone of his voice at the end slightly as if he wasn’t just screaming a while ago.
Under the warm light, he’s like a person most loved by the world.
Instinctively, I wrapped my arms around him then withdrew them as I stared at him.
He leaned down until we were eye-to-eye. His eyes were moist and filled with shimmering light.
Kiro: I haven’t seen you in so long. Why are you looking at me like that?
A burst of sourness rushed to the tip of my nose. I glanced at him, letting the ends of my hair hide my expression.
MC: It’s not that I’m worried you won’t get the proper care and treatment so I decided to stop by and do a surprise “inspection”.
Kiro immediately straightened his back and gave a playful salute.
Kiro: Got it. Inspector, I’m in your most capable hands!
I felt my heart tighten. Tamping down on that bitter feeling rising up, I lifted my head with a smile and touched his forehead.
MC: Has the treatment been difficult?
Kiro stretched his body and covered his mouth as he let out a yawn.
Kiro [yawning]: I almost fell asleep on the bed. Does that count?
My eyelashes trembled slightly and a lump caught in my throat.
All of a sudden, he grabbed my face between his hands and rubbed my cheeks.
Kiro:Is work tiring you out? Why are you so sluggish?
I tried to squeeze out a smile and I could only stare blankly at him. Seeing me like this, he laughed.
Kiro:MC, don’t worry about me!
…How can I not be worried? I’m so worried that I don’t know what to do.
I bowed my head helplessly and I saw a piece of orange in front of me.
Kiro: I cut this piece just for you. It’s very sweet. Try it.
I was taken aback but then bit down on the fruit. The sweetness spread all over my tongue and my vision became blurry.
Not able to hold back any longer, my tears fell causing Kiro to panic.
Kiro:Ahhh, don’t cry! What’s wrong?!
MC:…It’s so sour.
Kiro: Sour? Hold on.
He carefully wiped my tears with his fingers, picked up a piece of orange with a toothpick, bit down, and raised his eyebrows in contentment.
Kiro: Miss Chips must be unlucky because mine is very sweet. I’ll make sure to pick the sweetest one for you!
Kiro leaned over the fruit plate searching meticulously as his eyes wandered over the orange slices.
He really looked like he had a good sleep as though nothing happened behind the glass just now.
The emotions that have been piling up in my heart were threatening to burst and I almost blurted out.
MC:Kiro, I need to go back to the company. I have a lot of things to deal with so I’ll come visit you again tomorrow.
Kiro looked surprised by this. He raised his head and blinked.
Kiro:Tomorrow?
I took a step forward and smoothed down his slightly ruffled collar.
MC: Yeah, since I’m coming to see you every day, you better make sure to give me the sweetest oranges.
I returned to the company in a restless mood and saw that Anna was already waiting for me at the door to the office.
Anna: MC, there’s something I have to tell you. The company received a threatening message.
Startled, I quickly took the letter and opened it.
MC: …Cancel the filming of “Miracle Finder” or do so at your own risk?
Anna: It’s not only this letter but also emails and private messages from the company’s official social media account.
I couldn’t help but think of Cliff Mountain Villa and how that was blocked in every possible way.
Although it wasn’t revealed who did it, I’m certain the other person’s purpose may be more than that.
MC:Settle this matter first so it doesn’t arouse suspicion and cause a panic.
MC:Then contact the security department and ask them to transfer a group of skilled personnel.
I paused.
MC:Call everyone to the conference room right now. I have something to say.
MC: Ladies and gentlemen, lately the company has been receiving several threatening messages about the recording of the show.
MC:Although the other party did not give a reason why, it is safe to say that the purpose was to disrupt our scheduled plan.
MC:But this also means that the other party is afraid of the tremendous influence the show will bring to the viewers so the company must not back down.
Having said that, I opened the program schedule I made earlier on the projector.
MC: Previously, we were putting more focus on Evolvers but the Publicity Office offered a new direction based on the plan provided last time.
MC:Like a reality show, the daily life of Evolvers and ordinary people will be recorded for comparison.
MC:Using the most genuine method possible, we will let ordinary people and Evolvers fully understand that every person is the same.
With this new starting point, everyone began expressing their opinions.
As time passed, the voices in the conference room gradually became unified and the new program was quickly confirmed.
Mondlicht Bar, B4 Floor.
As soon as Kiro walked into the operating room, Ah Liu let out a sigh.
Ah Liu: Oh man, you look terrible. Take a nap after this is over. MC comes every day yet you can’t spend even a whole day with her.
Ah Liu: I’ll find a way to convince her to come back again tomorrow.
Kiro took off his coat and placed it on the stool.
He knew it was always difficult for him to hide from her so he wanted to make sure he left as little evidence as possible.
Kiro: No need, I’m fine.
Ah Liu: Fine? You keep putting on a brave face and pretend like it’s nothing but look how pale your face is.
Kiro rubbed his face vigorously. Soon, two crimson spots appeared on his cheeks.
Kiro: Many things need persistence to sustain but there’s no need for that if I just see her.
Kiro smiled with confidence. It was an extraordinarily happy and beautiful smile.
Kiro:I’m going to pick the sweetest oranges for her.
[His Miracle]
Feeling the lukewarm water, I added more hot water into the cup.
When he comes out, he’ll be able to warm his stomach right away.
As I was thinking this, my phone rang and I picked it up.
??:Hello, Miss MC.
??:This is Leto, the general manager of the Loveland City reconstruction project.
The moment I heard his voice, I felt my fingers grow cold as my heart raced.
…Why’s he calling me? Is it to publicize the cooperation or is it another reason?
MC:Hello, Mr. Leto. What can I do for you?
Leto: Pardon my intrusion. I got your contact information from the Publicity Office and wanted to express my gratitude to the City Hall.
Leto: With the positive response from your company, I believe more people will see our determination to rebuild the city.
Leto’s voice on the phone sounded like he was all about business and nothing seemed unusual.
MC:You are welcome. After all, this is what we must do.
Leto: I had no idea about Kiro’s involvement in the show. What’s your stance on it, Miss MC?
Leto:His influence will definitely play a pivotal role in promoting this project.
Hearing this, my grip tightened on the phone.
Why should Kiro be involved in the show? Is it really just about the influence of international superstars?
But my intuition tells me that he must have other intentions.
MC: I am really sorry but Kiro is an artist of my company so I have the right to protect him.
MC:As for the influence you mentioned, the company can also achieve the same result with the help of our own propaganda.
He let out a polite laugh at my response as if he was considering something.
Leto:The City Hall naturally hopes that the greater the influence, the better so it would be best if we can do both.
…Of all the nerve.
Leto: I think Miss MC should seriously consider this. I’ll be in touch. Goodbye.
Kiro:Was it a call from the Publicity Office?
Not knowing when he appeared behind me, I turned around to face him and handed him the glass of warm water.
MC: Yeah, they asked about the progress of the show.
His eyes darkened for a moment. He took a sip of the water and then handed me some freshly cut oranges with a grin.
There was no weariness in his bright eyes. He disguised himself so well that he didn’t leave any traces.
So I could only reach out and stroke his hair.
MC:How did your treatment go today?
I saw him hesitate but he nodded anyway.
Kiro: Don’t worry. it’s nothing.
It wasn’t a direct answer to my question almost as if he was speaking to himself.
I clenched my hands in silence and gave a half-hearted smile.
MC:Alright. Don’t push yourself too hard.
Don’t shoulder this all by yourself.
After the girl left the bar, the owner sat lazily on the sofa.
Boss: I’m guessing those who were looking for you have gone to City Hall. They’re forcing you to come out.
Boss: It seems there’s not much time left for you to slowly get adjusted.
Lazy blues flowed from the record player as Kiro narrowed his eyes and squeezed the cup in his hand.
Kiro: Then so be it.
When I walked into Mondlicht that afternoon, the owner put up a “Closed” sign and lowered the shutters.
As usual, I followed him until we stopped next to the opaque glass except today there was silence on the other side.
MC:Is there no treatment today..?
Boss: In order to repair Kiro’s hearing, we found an Evolver whose ability is healing but the process has been very slow.
Boss: Because of the need to regrow those damaged nerves and tissues, the pain he was feeling during that time was from repeating this procedure.
Boss:The use of anesthesia will affect the overall treatment process so he had to rely on his own will in order to stay conscious.
He didn’t answer my question but just kept talking.
I can’t even imagine how unbearable the pain is. My fingers couldn’t help but tremble.
Boss:For him, something might be more unbearable than the pain.
As he spoke, sounds of sharp objects colliding came from the other side of the glass.
The owner pressed a button on the wall beside him and the originally pitch-black glass became transparent—
And I finally saw Kiro lying on an operating table, his face all pale.
Boss: The surgery is about to begin.
Everything about this place made him feel sick to his stomach.
Whether it was the ice-cold operating table, his bound limbs, or the pungent stench of disinfectant, it always made him uneasy.
A piercing pain washed over him like a wave crashing, cutting his nerves sharply.
Beads of sweat fell into his eyes, causing them to burn, but he had to fight to keep his eyes open.
He saw Dre pick up a piece of gauze and move it closer to his eyes.
Although he was no longer “3684”, he can’t help the urge to vomit upon seeing this man.
Kiro:Just do your job. Don’t touch me.
The gauze was put back into place tremblingly and a gleaming white light re-entered his ears.
At the same time, it was like many tiny needles were stabbing him over and over again as the nerves reattached themselves. The pain was excruciating.
Kiro: [labored breathing followed by a scream] ….!
***Sidenote:A short video clip of this scene can be found here, courtesy of@link4eva
He had tried numerous times to restore his hearing but he never imagined that Dre would bring him this “hope”.
Instinctual disgust made him want to find some other way but there was no time and those people were more than warning him.
Until that happens, he must ensure that he had no weaknesses, even if the current method being used now isn’t permanent.
His hearing can only be maintained by Dre’s Evol. If Dre dies or becomes incapacitated…
He will be deaf once more.
He had to rely on someone else to save himself and it had to be this person from 17 years ago…the corners of his mouth twitched up into a sarcastic smile.
??:…Kiro.
Kiro’s eyelashes fluttered. The turbulent storm in his heart quietly subsided when he heard someone call his name.
Another drop of sweat fell into his eyes, only this time, he didn’t feel any pain.
He followed the voice and saw a figure standing behind the glass in front of him.
Kiro opened his mouth in disbelief. He never thought that this illusion could be so real.
In this operating room, all he saw was darkness.
He could only imagine her through instinct.
The way she smiled, the way she worried, the way she carried herself.
But now, he saw her bowing her head slightly, her hands clasped together reverently, like she was praying.
She looked so serious as if those small hands could guard the most urgent wishes. Her slightly furrowed brow made Kiro feel a little sad.
Obviously, it was just an illusion, he thought slowly. He didn’t know why but there seemed to be a feeling of being blessed.
Loosening his grip, he wanted to smooth out her wrinkled brow.
But he no longer had the strength to move and could only look at her for a long time.
He suddenly remembered a dream he had.
He dreamed he was in a warm little garden, lying on the soft, green grass with her next to him.
In the dream, he could clearly hear the sound of grass rustling beneath him, the sound of his fingers rubbing against her cheek, and her soft and gentle breaths.
All these delicate sounds flowed softly into his ears and into his heart.
Kiro:Miss Chips, my ears are healed. They’re completely healed.
He didn’t dare blink as he watched the girl’s face change from surprise to joy. This image was imprinted on his retina forever.
Soon, he felt the girl’s breath come closer as she leaned over and whispered something in his ear.
He couldn’t remember what she said, only that he felt bubbles bursting from his chest.
He even remembered that he secretly kissed her forehead.
Such a beautiful dream which he had more than once.
Amongst the colorful sea of flowers, under the clouds of the bright starry sky, and on the sofa which still held her body temperature.
In all the places he thought were beautiful in this world, she was right by his side.
He took the trouble to tell her over and over again that his ears were better and he could hear her voice.
Because he had never missed a voice so much.
He kept his eyes open for fear that if he blinked, the beauty that appeared in front of him would disappear.
Sweat clouded his vision. Gradually, the girl’s face in his dream overlapped with the face praying behind the glass.
Kiro: MC…I seem to really see you.
Kiro murmured and his lips curved into a small arc.
As long as he sees her, it won’t hurt anymore. Only a sweet taste, like eating a lot of candy, is left in his heart.
He didn’t know how much time passed, but in his stupor, he heard a voice.
Kiro: It’s secluded and safe. No one will bother me here.
Kiro: It doesn’t sound convincing but I’m not lying to you.
Kiro’s expression was a little pained as he looked at me earnestly but it didn’t calm the turbulence in my heart.
I remembered after the first hunter game, Kiro sent me here via email to get information from Ah Liu.
Intuition tells me that Mondlicht is complicated. It’s a place belonging to B.S. and there may be a lot of things hidden within that I don’t know about.
But now Kiro said he’s doing treatment here.
Taking a deep breath, I spoke seriously.
MC: Kiro, are you really undergoing treatment?
MC: I hope you’re not lying to me. Otherwise, I won’t believe anything that you say in the future.
Kiro was about to answer when a sharp knock on the door interrupted us.
??: Mind if I come in?
I looked at Kiro suspiciously. He seemed to be thinking about something and it took a long time before he spoke.
Kiro:Come on in, boss.
Boss? My eyes moved to the man leaning languidly by the door.
Boss: Greetings, Miss MC. I’m the owner of Mondlicht. Are you feeling better?
He raised the corners of his lips, revealing an extraordinarily harmless smile.
Boss: Thankfully, Kiro found you in time and brought you back here to let someone take a look at you. Otherwise, your physical trauma may cause delayed intracranial hemorrhage.
As I listened, I became more and more confused. Is there really a doctor here?
He seemed to know what I was thinking and then I noticed there were two people standing behind him.
Ah Liu: Yo, Miss MC, it’s been a while!
While talking, Ah Liu walked in with a man dressed in a white coat. He seemed a bit quiet as he awkwardly stood to the side.
…But the person in the white coat can’t possibly be a doctor, right?
I frowned slightly. Even if he is a doctor, these few individuals don’t look like a professional medical team.
Seeing the doubtful look on my face, Kiro got up and walked towards them.
Kiro:Although they might not seem like much, each one of them is important.
Kiro: Boss is responsible for providing the space and the B4 floor here has a professional operating room with advanced medical facilities. Ah Liu can save us a lot of time and cost.
When he looked at the doctor, the man trembled as if he was afraid of something.
Kiro:And this here is the excellent Dr. Dre. He’s in charge of treating my ears.
He paused and added another sentence.
Kiro:Having just him is more than enough.
MC:….
After a long time, I raised my head apologetically and spoke to the three of them at the door.
MC: Can you please excuse us for a little bit? I have something to say to Kiro alone.
They seemed to fully understand what I meant and left after explaining they were just here to say hello. The air in the room grew quiet. I turned my head to face Kiro.
MC: …Can they really heal your ears?
Kiro:Yes.
Kiro’s voice was soft but insistent.
Kiro:Dre has developed a comprehensive treatment plan.
Kiro: If all goes well, I’ll be able to hear your voice again soon.
Nevertheless, I’m still worried. It’s just…I don’t think Kiro is someone who makes rash decisions so he may have his own reasons for doing this.
Time seems to have passed for a long time. Kiro leaned over and wrapped me in that familiar warmth of his arms.
Kiro:Don’t worry. Everything will be smooth sailing afterwards.
I buried my face into his neck and sighed inwardly. Intuition tells me this isn’t as simple as it seems.
When I opened my eyes again, it was already bright. I sat up slowly and found that Kiro wasn’t in the room. The pain at the back of my neck had subsided considerably.
At this time, my phone vibrated twice. An unknown number was displayed on the screen. I carefully answered the call.
??:Is this Miss MC? I’m the person in charge of the Publicity Office at Loveland City Hall.
Any lingering traces of sleepiness instantly vanished after hearing the simple and direct greeting.
MC: Hello, This is MC.
Principal: Your company’s production of the documentary about Cliff House has been well received and has had a positive impact on the reconstruction project.
Principal: Therefore, we would like to cooperate with your company on a publicity project again. I hope you can come to the publicity office tomorrow to talk about related matters.
I was shocked. I didn’t expect that there would be follow-up cooperation with the Publicity Office after the cliffhanger documentary ended.
Currently, the reconstruction plan is a key project of Loveland City. If I continue to participate, it will be a good choice from the perspective of the public opinion and the future development of the company.
It’s just that…Leto is the general manager of the project. I always thought this project isn’t that simple and easy.
At this moment, the door gently opened and Kiro walked in carrying a bowl of steaming hot rice porridge. I hurriedly made a gesture. He quickly took the hint and sat to the side.
Principal: Miss MC?
I responded as I thought about it. After considering the pros and cons again and again, I made a decision.
MC:Yes, I understand.
In the next second, I hung up the phone. A warm jacket was draped over me.
Kiro: What’s up?
MC: Someone from City Hall Publicity Office called and wanted to cooperate with my company on a publicity project.
As I expected, he frowned at this.
Kiro: Although the person who knocked you out before should only be interested in the box, it’s safer to stay here until we find out more.
MC: ….Yes, but this is probably an invitation that is hard to refuse.
As I said that, I suddenly thought of something and quickly looked at Kiro.
MC:Besides, isn’t there Ah Liu? If he is willing to help, it can save a lot of unnecessary trouble.
MC: On the other hand, won’t this delay your treatment?
Kiro seemed to be thinking about something and his shoulders relaxed a little.
Kiro: It’s okay. He’s not involved in the treatment process.
Kiro: Just have him accompany you as an employee of your company. With him, I can feel more at ease.
The next day, Ah Liu and I arrived at the conference room of the Publicity Office at the agreed time.
Principal: Miss MC, the reconstruction plan requires the joint efforts of all parties. For example, by letting more people know about Evolvers, it will reduce suspicion of the unknown.
Principal:So we did a lot of research and learned that the show “Miracle Finder” has a good reputation.
Principal: It just so happens that it has been temporarily off the air since the last hunter game. I believe now would be a good chance to reboot.
I lightly tapped my fingers on the table and thought inwardly.
The content of the topic mentioned by the other party, considering the theme of the program, is indeed in line with “Miracle Finder”.
And the publicity office seems to have a very clear understanding of my company as well as every sentence is on point.
Except…it’s more about them needing the media’s influence than giving my company a chance.
MC: I am quite interested.
MC: Although “Miracle Finder” has been temporarily suspended, the official account is still active and many viewers are looking forward to the rebroadcast of the show.
MC:Such a theme really suits the timing of this rebroadcast.
Publicity Manager: However, we still have a proposal. We hope Kiro can participate in the recording of this issue.
Principal:The recent news about him has been closely linked to Evol, causing a heated discussion. With his involvement, I believe that the show’s influence will have a tremendous leap—
MC: I am sorry. I cannot agree with you on this.
I interrupted politely.
MC: If it is to use Kiro’s popularity to attract attention, I do not think it is a beneficial alternative.
MC:The result of that incident was not positive. If it continues to cause problems, it will have adverse effects.
Not to mention Kiro needs to be treated without any interference. I don’t want to let that video to become a talking point for everyone again.
This is something I can’t compromise on anyway.
The other person didn’t seem to expect that I would outright refuse. He lightly pursed his lips.
Principal:You can think on it some more.
MC:I agree with your proposal very much but please believe my company has substantial and professional experience and judgment in this regard.
MC: The selection of guests and the content of the script will be developed by our competent department and will then be submitted for review.
MC: If there is nothing else, I will be heading back to start preparations.
When Ah Liu and I returned to Mondlicht, I noticed the sign outside the bar was lit up but there were no one inside.
MC: …Is this bar actually making money?
Ah Liu: The salary isn’t in arrears.
As Ah Liu and I were walking into the bar, there was an abrupt sound of someone vomiting coming from the bottom of the stairs.
The familiar voice left me stunned.
MC:…Kiro?
[Beautiful Illusion]
The air in the room fell silent in an instant. My mind went blank. I automatically followed the sound but someone suddenly blocked my way.
The owner smiled at me naturally, holding a cup of coffee.
Boss: Back so soon? How’d it go?
MC: Where’s Kiro?
Boss: He’s in therapy. It should be over soon.
Hearing this, my already anxious mood became even more uneasy.
MC:Can I see him? I just heard him throwing up…
Boss: You must have heard wrong. He’s in the fourth-floor basement and the walls are soundproof.
Boss:Besides, I can’t take you to him. It will interfere with the treatment.
The boss smiled indifferently, took out a stack of photos from his pocket, and waved them in front of me.
Boss:There’s some good news though.
Boss: We’re pretty sure the attack was an accident and her purpose was only that box.
Boss: We also have info about the box. It’s very similar to the “small syringes” but it can allow ordinary people to obtain Evol.
My head is buzzing. I will definitely get to the bottom of this. But now the uneasiness in my heart is spreading. I just want to see Kiro as soon as possible.
MC: Can we discuss this later? I want to see Kiro first…
I moved to go behind him and he immediately blocked me.
Boss:There’s nothing to worry about getting his hearing repaired. What matters is where the box…
MC: Step aside.
Seeing him dodge, I’m even more sure he was hiding something from me. Throwing caution to the wind, I quickly sidestepped him and tried to run down the stairs—
Kiro:Huh? Back already?
His golden head popped out from the stairway followed by his clear voice.
I stared blankly at him as he walked towards me briskly. His bright eyes full of smiles.
He doesn’t look any different.
MC: Kiro…are, are you okay?
He tilted his head in confusion as if he didn’t understand why I asked him this.
Kiro: I just had a pre-treatment test downstairs. I’m fine.
MC:…Really?
Kiro: Don’t believe me?
With a sigh, he straightened up and stretched his arms toward me.
Kiro:Then see for yourself.
MC:….So you say.
Two can play at that game. I reached out my hand and put it directly over his cheek, looking into his ears. They were smooth with no signs of wounds or bleeding.
My fingers continued to wander. I stroked his chest and felt his heart beating firmly against my hand.
I leaned forward attentively, not missing a single inch. I didn’t notice the body under my fingertips getting more and more tense.
Kiro: …That should be enough, don’t you think?
MC: Don’t talk. I’m not done yet.
I didn’t pay any attention to the obvious suppressed laughter behind me. Thinking of checking further, I pulled at the hem of his shirt and was about to tell him to lift it—
In an instant, a pair of extremely hot hands caught mine. It startled me as I raised my head and Kiro’s deep eyes met mine.
Only then did I realize how close we were and our breaths intermingled with each other’s.
Finally, I realized what I had just done and my face heated up.
Kiro:If I take it off, do I have to change?
MC:….!
MC: Tha-that won’t be necessary! You’re good.
I immediately jumped back a step and saw that the owner and Ah Liu were still standing nearby with eager looks on their faces.
Boss:Alright, the two of you have something to do later. Shouldn’t it be our turn to report?
Kiro naturally took the hint.
Kiro: Ah Liu, how did it go at the Publicity Office?
Ah Liu briefly recounted the content of the afternoon meeting. The dim light casted a dark look over Kiro’s face.
Ah Liu: MC’s attitude was so polite and worthy of being the boss you said she is. She also declined the offer of letting you participate in the show.
Kiro:Did they mention anything else?
MC:Nothing else but to wait for the script and process sheet to come out and then get a review.
Kiro nodded. Without any further questions, the owner beside him held up the photos with a grin.
Boss: It’s my turn, right?
Boss: Regarding the mechanical box, there’s not much we can go on. Judging from the information we have so far, it just randomly appeared in the city.
MC:Randomly?
Boss: That’s right. It appeared out of thin air and the surveillance didn’t show any signs of people.
Boss: As for what I just said, there is no absolute certainty that it can grant Evol to others so it will time some time to look into.
I nodded thoughtfully. The box was a little too weird. It seems like I’ll have to get my hands on it in order to find out more information.
A pair of blue eyes suddenly came into view. Kiro looked at me and poked the tip of my nose.
Kiro: I have a pretty good idea about what you’re thinking so it’s best to dismiss those dangerous thoughts.
Before I could glare at him, my phone vibrated. It was Willow sending a document that needed approval.
Kiro: Is it work? Go back to the company and take care of it.
I was surprised and couldn’t help but ask Kiro suspiciously.
MC:Why does it sound like you want me to leave? Don’t you want me to stay here?
Kiro blinked at me, looking all innocent.
Kiro: Of course I want you to stay.
Kiro: But my boss just took over the City Hall partnership project. Shouldn’t she head back and organize the meeting right away?
Although the surprise inspection just now yielded no results, it couldn’t dispel the doubts circling in my mind.
If he’s really hiding something and I continue to ask questions, it’ll definitely be harder for me to get an answer.
Can’t “beat the grass and startle the snake”.
MC: I do have to go back to the company.
Listening to his words, I stood up and from the corner of my eye, I saw him secretly relax.
MC:You continue your treatment with no worries. I’ll come back when I’m done.
After firmly making a decision, I went back to the company and convened for a meeting.
MC: I hope to analyze and compare from multiple perspectives rather than just pursuing the power of Evol.
MC:This program wants more people to understand that there is no fundamental difference between Evolvers and ordinary people.
After finishing up, I had just returned to the office when I received a strange phone call.
??: Miss MC, I am your representative for GR. Would it be convenient for me to speak with you?
My heart sank. I didn’t expect someone from GR to contact me so quickly.
??:We’ve heard that the City Hall Publicity Office is partnering up with you on a program.
??: I hope you make good use of your identity and express the position that ordinary people should have in the show.
??: As a new member, this is a great opportunity to stand out.
The other person’s remarks were obviously not up for debate.
MC: Too much of a hurry to get things done will get the town hall’s attention and I need to gain their trust before I have more opportunities.
Hazy moonlight spilled into a corner of the NW promenade, reflecting a cold light.
Xiao Yue casually walked up to Lucien and lifted his chin.
Xiao Yue: Thanks to the original CORE gene sequence left over 17 years ago, this project has entered its final stage.
Xiao Yue: But considering that the results of this experiment are very important to us, just to be safe, I have a plan that requires the cooperation of Professor Lucien.
Under the cover of night, Lucien’s expression darkened.
***SPOILERS*** THIS POST CONTAINS HEAVY SPOILERS FOR CONTENT NOT YET RELEASED ON EN SERVER!!! READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!***
[Early Clues]
As the afternoon sun bathed the corridor of the hospital with sunlight, it was soon disrupted by several hurried figures. They stopped in front of the nurse’s desk.
The man standing at the front kept his eyes calm and nodded to the nurse.
??: Hello, we are employees from MC’s company name. We are here to see the patient, Kiro, in ward 1409.
The nurse tapped the keyboard a few times, then shook her head.
Nurse:I am sorry. There is no patient named Kiro in ward 1409.
The man was stunned for a moment. The sharpness in his eyes was fleeting.
When night fell, the door of ward 1409 suddenly cracked open.
Moonlight illuminated the man’s figure. After looking around, he left in anger. He didn’t notice the cold light in the corner.
The brightness of the screen outlined Kiro’s face while he stared blankly at the back of the man’s head as he went offscreen—
??:They’re a lot slower than we expected. But seeing them here now, it must mean that they’ve finally making their move.
Kiro glanced at the man behind him leaning against the door then closed the surveillance window.
However, his fingers didn’t stop. Soon, the screen was filled with lines of code.
The crisp sound of the Enter key rang out and countless files spread out on the screen. He stopped on a recent experimental record.
The first page of the document clearly listed the participants involved in the experiment—
Name: Gavin.
Kiro: They found the experiment.
Kiro closed the computer and looked at the man behind him.
Kiro:Have they arrived?
??:They’re waiting outside.
With a cold expression, he strode out of the room and pushed open the heavy metal door at the end of the corridor.
The overhead lights reflected the gloominess of the room. His unfriendly eyes pinned the man in front of him like a sharp blade.
Under the backlight, the man’s temple revealed a few white strands of hair. His back was slightly hunched as he kept rubbing his hands nervously in fear.
Kiro: Long time no see, Dr. Dre.
When I came out of the teahouse, the faint light of dawn was beginning to break through the dark night and yet I couldn’t quite wake up.
Only those childish but indifferent eyes kept swirling in my mind, reminding me of that teenager who murdered people through the Evolver assassination.
MC: …You killed him?
Little Stammer twitched the corner of his mouth and shrugged.
Little Stammer: He’s ju-just one of those Evolver monsters. That’s more than enough reason to die.
I clenched my palms, unable to believe such cruel words came from the mouth of a young man.
How many absurd and extreme ideas has GR instilled in them? I suppressed my emotions and said calmly.
MC: You’re wrong.
MC: Ordinary people are humans and so are Evolvers. No one has the right to harm others no matter the reason.
Little Stammer looked back at me indifferently as if he had heard something interesting.
Little Stammer: If someone must to do something, then th-this is the right thing to do.
Little Stammer: It’s justice.
In the distance, the banner for the rebuilding of Loveland City fluttered in the wind.
At the moment, the project seems to be progressing smoothly but there’s no guarantee how far it will go.
The contradiction between ordinary people and Evolvers is like a chasm that’s neither shallow or light. It’s still there even today.
This reminded me of an interview we did with Evol when the “small syringes’ incident happened.
I could still clearly hear what Lucien said in that interview.
Lucien:But when real social evolution arrives, people will eventually make choices.
Lucien: Advance or be eliminated.
Lucien was right. But this final choice may have long since surfaced.
Like the reconstruction projects trying to foster the relationship between Evolvers and ordinary people or those who want to get in the way of those projects.
Maybe the path they are taking is leading to that final result.
I was walking along on the street in a daze. The morning mist hadn’t dissipated. Not far away, floors were being swept and shutter doors were opening for business.
They seem to be telling me that even though there’s still a long way to go, everyone’s day continues on.
I took out my phone and thought about recording this moment.
As the camera moved, I captured flying banners, lit-up billboards, and vacant buses driving on the road.
It made me feel nostalgic and made me miss those long-lost peaceful times.
Letting out a sigh of relief, I was about to stop recording when I noticed a gleaming white light flashing at the corner of the screen.
On impulse, I zoomed in, holding my breath—
It’s that unusual black box!
[Behind the Scenes]
The box on the screen floats in the air, flashing irregular white lights, mysterious and eerie.
I immediately remembered the scene from earlier and my eyes widened.
It looks slightly different from what Victor gave me in the office but it’s basically the same thing.
What’s this black box doing here…could it be connected to GR?
Without thinking, I ran over to it.
There weren’t any hidden mechanisms on the box. After much contemplation, I decided to take it back with me first.
I walked cautiously up to the glowing box and carefully reached out my hand—
At the same time, a heavy object struck my neck from behind. Intense pain instantly overwhelmed me.
MC:!
Numbness swept through my nerves causing me to stumble, dropping my phone as I fell to the ground.
As my vision became increasingly blurry, l vaguely saw a pair of shoes.
In my daze, the gleaming white light was hidden away while I heard footsteps scurrying away from the scene.
The constant buzzing made it difficult to concentrate. Instinctively, I moved my fingers towards my phone.
Everything in front of me kept spinning and I knew I was about to lose consciousness as the edge of my vision started to became black.
I can’t faint yet.
MC: …I’ve got to hold on.
Clenching my teeth, I moved forward until my fingertips finally felt a cold metal surface.
With the last ounce of strength, I flipped over the cell phone lying on the ground, not knowing who I dialed.
Faintly, I heard a beep—
??:Miss Chips?
…It was Kiro.
I struggled to answer but didn’t have any more strength left.
Kiro: MC? MC! …You…
His voice faded in and out. Eventually, I heard nothing.
??: Why is ….not awake…the hell are you…
??: She’s….stunned…don’t worry…
There was a continuous tingling pain in my head as anxious words came floating into my ears which made my head ache even more.
In my groggy state, I slowly opened my eyes. I wanted to silence those loud voices and was met with an ocean of blue.
Kiro’s bleary face came into view. In my trance, I thought I was seeing things.
Kiro: MC, you’re finally awake!
Just as I was about to say something, I was struck by a dull pain. I closed my eyes reluctantly. The face in front of me gradually became clearer.
Kiro’s hair was a little messy and his anxious eyes looked bloodshot and tired.
MC: …I’m not dreaming, am I?
I muttered as I raised my hand. He grabbed it and held it to his cheek.
Kiro: It is said that there are thoughts during the day and dreams at night.
Kiro: But even if I’m not in a dream, I can still appear in front of you.
The warm touch gradually seeped into my stiff fingers, real and close.
As his furrowed brows slightly relaxed, Kiro finally smiled and lightly pinched my cheek.
Kiro: Wakey, wakey. I’ve been waiting for Sleeping Beauty for a long time.
My sluggish brain finally decided to kick in and I blinked to find myself in an unfamiliar room.
MC: Where am I..? How come you’re here?
Kiro: We’ll talk about that later. Does it still hurt?
MC: It doesn’t hurt as much anymore…
Kiro: That’s normal.
Kiro sat down beside me and gently stroked my forehead.
Kiro:Fortunately, your injury wasn’t serious. Have a good rest. You’ll be better in no time.
Kiro: We’re in Mondlicht so there’s no need to worry.
Mondlicht? I was surprised. Isn’t this a B.S. bar?
Seeing my doubtful gaze, Kiro poured a glass of warm water and slowly helped me to sit up.
Kiro:Afew hours ago, you called my phone but you didn’t say anything.
Kiro: It scared me to death! I quickly took Ah Liu (No. 6 on EN server) to find you. When we arrived, we found you unconscious on the ground.
Kiro paused and a glint fleeted across his eyes.
My head was aching but what he said was exactly how I remembered it.
MC: I felt something hit me on the back of my neck…
Kiro: Yes, you were indeed hit by a blunt object and have a slight concussion.
MC: But why was I knocked out…ah!
A teahouse, narrow alleyways….suddenly, a glowing mechanical black box flashed through my mind making me exclaim.
MC:That mechanical box! Oh right, during that time, I dropped my phone…did you grab it by any chance?
Kiro nodded and handed me the phone sitting on the table. I took it and opened the latest video on file.
MC:I was taking some footage but happened to see a floating mechanical box in the corner of the screen.
MC: I walked over to pick it up but just as I was about to touch it, I felt a sharp pain behind my neck and saw a pair of shoes before I passed out.
MC: …Here, this is it!
I hurriedly pointed to the white shimmer in the corner of the screen.
Kiro: Mechanical box.
Judging from his tone, he didn’t sound surprised until he saw the scrutiny in my eyes.
Kiro:What were you going to do with it?
MC:I…
I paused, hesitating to speak.
MC: Because I met two people while I was filming the cliffhanger documentary They claimed they were able to obtain Evol from it.
MC: I was going to investigate….
The image on the screen zoomed in and the light from the box became a blurry halo.
I was about to put away my phone when I heard a muffled sound. The phone shook as it dropped and the video continued to play.
I couldn’t help being taken aback and then I realized the phone kept recording even after I was knocked out!
The bright white light flickered until an arm appeared on the screen. Later, the owner of the arm also came into view.
It was a middle-aged woman. She quickly took the glowing box into her arms and then disappeared offscreen. The video ended with a trembling flip.
I didn’t say anything for a while, feeling that the whole thing was strange.
From the looks of it, the other person was after the mechanical box but how did she learn about it?
Kiro:MC, do you know this person?
Kiro enhanced the grainy image of the woman’s face and showed it to me.
I took a closer inspection and felt that she looked familiar but I couldn’t put my finger on where I’ve seen her.
MC: …I feel like I should.
After Kiro forwarded the video to himself, he gently rubbed my forehead.
Kiro: Let’s not dwell on it anymore. Do you feel any other pain other than a headache?
MC: I’m fine. My main concern is if this mechanical box can grant someone Evol, who knows where it will…
Before I could finish speaking, Kiro lightly touched my lips with his finger.
Kiro:The patient shouldn’t overthink.
Kiro: I’ll be responsible for giving you answers and you’re responsible for getting a good rest.
I wanted to argue but I could only nod my head under his gaze.
Seeing him smile in relief, my eyes flitted across the hearing aids in his ears and I suddenly realized something that had been nagging me.
My gaze swept across the room, past the beer crate in the corner until it landed back on Kiro. I pouted.
He stared at me suspiciously then leaned towards me with great concern.
Kiro:What’s wrong? Do you feel uncomfortable?
I didn’t answer him. Ignoring the drowsiness in my head, I straightened up slowly.
Kiro: …Miss Chips?
I took a deep breath and closed my eyes.
MC:“I recently started doing hearing-related closed therapy. It’s done by a very professional medical team.”
MC: “Mondlicht”…is this what you mean by “professional medical team”?
Kiro was a little embarrassed and even gave me a few deliberate dry smiles.
