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buouoyancy · 1 year ago

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[CN] MLQC Lucien’s Wonderful Date English Translation

⚠️ SPOILER ALERT!! ⚠️

This post contains a detailed spoiler for a date that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~

"Lucien, Happy Valentine's Day."

The edge of the "ring" sways, casting beautiful iridescent glows, making it looks like a tiny rainbow.

"Let me take advantage of the coincidence brought by the sun and give this to you."

The tip of his thumb that I held between my fingers feels slightly warm. I can sense Lucien's fingers trembling almost imperceptibly.

Translation under the cut!

VERY IMPORTANT: If you haven’t heard it, please listen to this silly New Year phone call when Xu Mo/Lucien was drunk and saw ‘a bunny cloud’ LOL. This call is going to be referenced a couple of times during this date.

youtube

I'm planning to add a subtitle for this date soon! Posting it today because... well, today is the Valentine 😂. But here's the unsubtitled video if you just want to follow along with his voice.

✂-----------------------

[Part 1]

MC: ...Is it snowing?

The lingering alcohol that hasn't fully dissipated leaves me in a wonderful daze. In my daze, a faint coldness falls on my face.

I blink and the tiny snowflakes sway along in the sky. I dial Lucien’s phone number instinctively.

Tomorrow is Valentine's Day, and Lucien and I tacitly arranged our respective plans tonight.

I went out to dinner with some long-lost college friends, while Lucien had a small gathering with friends from his research field.

MC: I wonder if his gathering is over yet...

The phone is almost instantly answered, and a gentle voice falls into my ears.

I can't help but smile, and my heart suddenly softens. I feel warm all over as if I'm walking on clouds.

Lucien: (chuckles) I was just about to call you.

MC: What a coincidence~ So, does Professor Lucien have the same reason for calling me as I do for calling him?

Lucien: Of course.

Lucien: Instead of saying I want to share something, it's more like I simply thought of you.

Lucien: Because I miss you so much, I instinctively followed my heart.

MC: I really like Professor Lucien's heart. So, think about me even more~

The person on the other end of the line seems to have gone silent. For a while, all I can hear is his uneven breaths and the sudden rush of air.

My brain seems to be operating unusually slowly at this moment. I stiffly shake my head and tap the phone's microphone with confusion.

Lucien's voice is mixed with slightly heavy breaths. Before I could ask, he changed the topic.

MC: Why are you suddenly silent?

Lucien: Sorry, I just rushed to a place where there's no one around.

Just as he finishes speaking, a flash of white light suddenly surrounds me, and everything before my eyes spins for a moment.

Lucien: MC, where are you?

MC: I... let me check.

MC: I've reached the intersection across from the apartment. Where are you? Do you want me to wait here for you?

Lucien: No need.

Lucien: I'll come to you myself.

The sound behind me merges wonderfully with the one in my ears, leaving me stunned as I turn my head and meet those deep eyes.

As if compelled by a mysterious force, I lean in and reach out, pinching the slightly flushed cheek of the person before me.

MC: Am I really drunk?! Or... you, you're cheating with Evol!

Lucien: (chuckles) Both.

He smiles and lightly brushes away the snowflakes that have fallen on my hat.

Lucien: I was a little impatient, wanting to quickly reach my drunk girlfriend's side, so please allow me to sneakily play a little trick.

MC: I'm not drunk at all. I... I haven't even seen any bunny cloud like you did before!

As I speak, I point to the snowy sky. Lucien seizes the opportunity to catch my wrist, naturally tucking it into the pocket of his coat.

Lucien laughs heartily and then wears a thoughtful expression.

MC: I still remember that we had to go home and put out the gold ingots we bought and the Spring Festival couplets we wrote to welcome the God of Wealth!

MC: And then we also need to sleep early tonight, so we can wake up early for Valentine's Day tomorrow! How about that, did I get it all right?

Lucien: (chuckles) In that case, we better hurry up then.

He says as he pulls me into his arm. Then, there’s another blinding flash of white light, and we suddenly find ourselves back home.

MC: ...Why did you do it again! We're not in that much of a hurry, are we?

Lucien bends down and pecks my narrowed eyes.

Lucien: We are.

MC: (unamused) You're acting very strangely, Lucien. Are you the one who's drunk?

The next moment, he picks me up bridal style, and I instinctively cling to his neck.

Lucien: I didn't see the little bunny cloud today either.

Lucien: It's just... besides the things you listed, there are other things I want to do.

Lucien: (whispers hoarsely) So, satisfy me for a bit, that way we can go to bed early.

[Part 2]

His hot breath falls down from my nose to my lips, and in a trance, I seem to see blurry spots of light falling into my eyes. The way they flicker and sway looks just like a rainbow.

✂-----------------------

As I watch the yellow smog warning pop up on my phone, I can't help but sigh.

I fidget with the beads in my hand, feeling guilty. I steal a glance at the person beside me, only to unexpectedly collide with those smiling eyes.

MC: ....Hmph, caught you "slacking off" with the bead stringing, didn't I?

He doesn't argue back, just calmly points to the two neatly strung bead curtains scattered on my side, then gestures to the five strands beside him.

Lucien: When Teacher MC taught me how to string beads, she said that each bead encases a tiny blessing and a beautiful wish.

Lucien: We must string them together reverently, each one at a time, and then hang them up.

Lucien: This way, countless good things will happen in the new year.

I awkwardly chuckle and quickly string a few more beads.

MC: Haha, as a student... your memory is indeed too good!

Lucien: I follow my teacher's teachings very earnestly. It's just that now, it seems like my efficiency as a student far exceeds yours.

Lucien: Hmm… how can this be?

MC: Your teacher is giving you a chance to shine, and I can see that classmate Lucien is very talented. Do you feel like you're surrounded by blessings?

Lucien picks up a bead and skillfully threads it through the fishing line.

Seeming to notice my confusion, he picks up another bead, holding it up to his eyes. The translucent light refracts and playfully dances on his glasses.

Lucien: I think, perhaps it's not just blessings.

Lucien: I also entrusted some small doubts, or you could say wishes, to them.

He says as he places the bead string into my palm, his fingertips inadvertently tickling my skin, causing me to subsonciously rub my hand.

Lucien: I wonder if the girl in front of me who claims not to care about the cancelled event truly doesn't mind.

Lucien: She was drunkenly talking about what time to go out, what to eat, and getting the best spot for the light show in advance last night.

Lucien: But now, here we are, just sitting and stringing beads, which was originally our plan for the seventh day of the lunar new year.

He speaks with such seriousness that I can't help but laugh, and I simply mutter as I throw myself into his arms and nuzzle against him.

Lucien: Moreover, when she strings beads, she neither looks at me nor speaks.

Lucien: Then I thought, what can I do to coax her?

I raise my hand to help Lucien take off his glasses, wanting to look into his eyes more clearly.

MC: Don't expose me anymore, wahhhh.

MC: Whether it's the light show or planned outings, none of these are really important to me.

MC: Actually, I know that what I care about isn't just the disappointment of plans falling through.

MC: I just want us to have a sense of ritual on this day because it's Valentine's Day. But it's not just on Valentine's Day.

MC: I want every day we spend together to be meaningful.

MC: So… It's a shame that the event had to be cancelled because of the weather; because it felt like something was missing.

Lucien: (chuckles) So that's how it is.

Lucien raises his eyebrows in understanding, and then he gently ruffles my hair.

He says as he pulls me back into his arms, and affectionately rubs his fingertips against my cheek.

MC: Your expression of sudden realization right now looks a bit staged, it seems cunning.

Lucien: Does it?

Lucien: But I do find you so cute like this, I can't help but want to tease you.

Lucien: MC, actually I'm looking forward to it even more now.

MC: Hmm? Why do you say that?

Lucien: Every time I've encountered something unplanned with you before, it seems to bring about special surprises. I think today might be no exception.

Lucien: Miracles happen when you're around.

A gentle voice brushes through my heart, spreading a hint of sweetness.

As I say this, I reach for my cell phone, but the force behind me pulls me back into his embrace. Lucien buries his head on my shoulder and lets out a relaxed breath.

MC: Then... let's go do something else! No matter how we spend today, it will have its meaning.

MC: How about we just go for the simplest, most cliché thing; watching a movie? Let me check the showtimes, and we can go after we hang up the bead curtains...

He squints his eyes in triumph.

Lucien: (whispers) There are still a few hours before the movie starts, we have plenty of time to hang up the bead curtains before we go out.

Lucien: And besides, my beautiful girlfriend would probably want to dress up a bit, wouldn't she?

MC: ...When did you book the tickets?

Lucien: (chuckles) It's a secret.

Lucien: I specifically booked the Valentine's Day special screening at 13:14, with a couple's massage sofa bed.

Lucien: So let's consider it as today's surprise gift.

MC: Getting a massage while watching a movie is so comfortable. I hope all the cinemas in Loveland City adopt this standard!

✂-----------------------

[Part 3]

As Lucien and I walk out of the bustling theatre along with the crowd, we can't stop praising the movie-watching experience we just had.

A similar warmth seeps through our tightly clasped palms, travelling to the bottom of our hearts. We quickly walk to the exit, only to discover that it's raining outside at some point.

Lucien: This vision doesn't sound too difficult to achieve.

Lucien: For example, a major producer could make a program about this, promoting cinema marketing strategies while conducting random interviews to convey the audience's real experiences.

Lucien: I think that with the broadcasting power of your company, no cinema would want to be left out.

MC: As expected of my program consultant, you've come up with a plan in just a few words

Lucien: (chuckles) You flatter me, it's all thanks to the influence I've gained from being around the Great Producer.

The already foggy sky now seems even darker and gloomier, making it resemble night.

Groups of people huddle together in twos and threes, seemingly thrown off rhythm by this sudden and unexpected downpour.

The wind and its moisture sneak through the opening and closing of the door, causing the person beside me to calmly tighten his arm around me.

I don't know why, but I suddenly found myself smiling.

He says as he looks at me, and there seems to be a bit more smile in his eyes.

Lucien: What are you thinking about?

MC: Don't you think we have a bit of fate with the ever-changing weather today?

MC: This morning, we had to cancel our plans to see the light show due to the smog, and now we're "trapped" in the cinema because of the sudden rain.

Lucien: It can also be understood that the unexpected surprises beyond our plans are still arriving as scheduled.

Lucien gently sways our intertwined hands, as if waiting for my answer.

Lucien: I have to say, the twists and turns of today's events are no less than the movie we just watched.

MC: Pfft, then Professor Lucien, what do you think would happen next if we were in a movie right now?

Lucien: That would depend on what the protagonist wants to happen next.

I fix my gaze on him, then turn to look at the continuous rain. Almost spontaneously, numerous memories of rainy days with him come flooding back to me.

Even though I speak vaguely, he doesn't hesitate, as if from beginning to end, he knows exactly what I'm thinking.

MC: How about we see if there's any meaning behind today's rain?

Lucien: Mm, I'd be happy to.

For a moment, we tacitly remain silent and look in the same direction, watching the raindrops fall continuously to the ground, creating splashes.

Occasionally, the idle chatter of people passing by fills the air, but soon these voices fade away, leaving only the steady pitter-patter of rain.

Time seems to have slowed down, leaving only one sound in the world.

The headlights of approaching cars illuminate the road ahead, making the raindrops that fall and splash more distinct, as they intrude into our vision in a different way.

MC: Lucien, look over there...!

Grasping our intertwined hands, I point to the ground not far away, excitement evident in my voice as I speak.

MC: Doesn't the falling rain resemble fluttering butterflies?

Lucien follows my gaze and looks over, remaining silent for a moment. He watches quietly until that streak of light illuminating the world falls completely into his deep eyes.

Lucien: Beautiful.

When he speaks again, his gaze shifts to me.

Lucien: (chuckles) Truly beautiful.

The traffic light at the intersection turns green, and the flow of traffic resumes. The rain seems to have lessened a bit, and faint light begins to emerge from the gloomy sky.

The magical scene just now feels like a serendipitous coincidence sent by the world.

MC: I've found the meaning of this rain.

Lucien remains silent, seemingly signalling for me to continue speaking.

Before I could grasp his meaning, the warmth of his shadow envelops me tightly. Lucien pulls me in and strides into the rain.

MC: It happened to make us stay here, and we just happened to choose to pause, only then did we witness the fleeting and wonderful coincidence.

MC: Would you see it as a small miracle

Lucien: Merely seeing it isn't enough.

Lucien: Since it's such a romantic coincidence, why don't we seize it?

[Part 4]

Lucien: Let's join this fluttering dance.

✂-----------------------

Fortunately, we didn't get too wet.

But just to be on the safe side, we immediately turn on the air conditioner once we get home and take a warm shower.

The flowing sound of water and the roar of the hairdryer form a harmonious resonance. As I blow my semi-dry hair, I vaguely feel that the sound of water in the shower has stopped.

I instinctively tilt my head to look over, and Lucien happens to walk out.

The already loose pyjamas are worn by him with even more casualness, with a large expanse of his chest exposed, and the sash lazily hanging around his waist.

His wet hair is laden with water droplets, which silently roll down his sliding Adam’s apple.

As he approaches, the scent of the shower gel we both use begins to waft from him, gradually filling the bathroom with a mix of moisture and ambiguity.

Lucien: (chuckles) Let me help you.

He says, taking the hair dryer from me and running his fingertips through my hair affectionately.

MC: My hair is almost dry. You should dry yours now.

Perhaps due to the loud noise of the hairdryer, Lucien doesn't immediately answer me. Instead, he bends down, his hands continuing their movements.

His warm breath mingles with the noisy hot air, repeatedly sweeping over my earlobes.

Lucien: Hm? What did you say?

I can't tell if he did it on purpose or not, but his action makes me feel a wave of tingling sensation. I instinctively try to dodge, but the person behind me has me completely trapped in front of the sink.

This man is really…!

I directly turn away from his arms with all my might, snatch the hairdryer, and start blowing at his damp hair. Then, in a retaliatory manner, I lightly scratch his earlobe with my nails.

MC: I said~ Hurry up and dry your hair, or you'll catch a cold.

Lucien: (chuckles) Alright, then I'll trouble you with that.

Lucien squints his eyes and obediently bends down, allowing me to fiddle with his hair as I please. His hands naturally rested on my waist, gently caressing from time to time.

I can't help but pinch his ear and turn off the hairdryer.

MC: Alright sir, take a moment to appreciate the talent of MC the stylist~

He cooperates by looking in the mirror with me, nodding appreciatively with feigned approval, and leaning his head next to mine.

In the mirror, two faces with similarly raised corners on their mouth are reflected, along with the complementing couple's pyjamas.

Lucien: It's just perfect, we're a perfect match.

MC: Hehe, indeed~ It seems like we should be sitting face to face in the next moment, enjoying our Valentine's Day candlelit dinner~

I seem to catch on to Lucien's meaning, turning to meet his eyes that are filled with smiles.

Lucien: (chuckles) Why shouldn't we.

MC: You mean….

After dividing the task, I head to the fridge to check the available ingredients. I quickly list a few home-cooked dishes, and simultaneously purchase the necessary items while asking for Lucien's opinion.

Lucien: Since the rain brought us back home, let's make the candlelit dinner ourselves.

Lucien: Perhaps those newly bought kitchen utensils are also looking forward to being used again.

MC: Hehe, then let them shine today! I remember there are still some ingredients in the fridge, and ordering some more should be enough~

Lucien: Okay, then I'll take care of these wet clothes we changed out of.

MC: …Order placed! The takeaway should arrive in about half an hour~

The only response I receive is the sound of the dryer operating. I'm about to get up to see if Lucien needs any help when something catches my eye, causing me to blink.

I quickly raise my head, and outside the window, the sky is clear and bright. I hadn't noticed when it cleared up.

A beam of light pours through the window, cascading down over the newly hung beaded curtains and casting soft hues on the floor as if delivering the sunshine of the entire winter.

The light spots on the floor dance with the swaying of the beads, and I can't help but reach out for this sliver of warmth.

The moment I "catch" the light, I subconsciously hold my breath.

MC: ….!

Thump, thump. Amidst the silence, a name unknowingly knocked into my heart.

MC: ... Lucien! Quick, come here!

Without hesitation, I immediately call out to him, my heart beating inexplicably faster.

Perhaps my voice sounded too urgent, as Lucien almost ran over to me.

The moment he lifts the beaded curtain, I quickly step forward and grab his hand.

The beam of light falls precisely on his outstretched left hand, landing on his ring finger.

It’s like a ring.

The translucent beads collide with each other and make a crisp sound, as if playing a colourful melody that exclusively belongs to this moment.

MC: Lucien, Happy Valentine's Day.

Perhaps because this moment feels so sacred and precious, I always feel like I should say something more. But the words that come out end up being so simple.

The edge of the "ring" sways, casting a beautiful iridescent glow, making it look like a tiny rainbow.

MC: (smile softly) Let me take advantage of the coincidence brought by the sun and give this to you.

The tip of his thumb that I held between my fingers feels slightly warm. I sense Lucien's fingers trembling almost imperceptibly.

His ink-like gaze remains fixed on our fingertips, and only after a long while does it slowly shift to my face.

Lucien: (softly) Then I'll accept it. MC: Speaking of which, I also saw such a special “rainbow” like the one you gave me last night. Lucien: When did you see it?

I stand on my tiptoes and kiss the corner of his lips.

MC: I see it right now.

The response I get is an even hotter breath, it mingles with mine and lingers between our lips and tongues. I don't know how long it takes before he slowly lets me go.

Then he tightly interlocks our hands, letting the light trace along our closely pressed skin and spread from his ring finger to my ring finger.

Allowing that spot to bear the same mark, which feels scorching hot even though it's just being illuminated by the sun.

On a winter evening, in a sudden moment of clearing skies, a beam of light shines through.

Lucien: This invitation regarding time, I'm very willing to accept it.

Lucien: Or perhaps I should say, from beginning to end, I never have any reason to refuse.

It was just a beam of light, and it could have remained just that.

But right now, it's a gift, a marvellous coincidence sent by the world.

#mlqc #!!!!!!!

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buouoyancy · 2 years ago

Text

[CN] MLQC Lucien’s Sacred Mountain date + calls + moments translation

⚠️ SPOILER ALERT!! ⚠️

This post contains a detailed spoiler for a date that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~

'I know that there must be things in the world that are unknowable.'

'I never set my heart on those illusory protections and blessings, only hoping for those silent bystanders to witness our smooth and winding journey through life.'

'But if there truly is something that can hear the sound of prayers, I hope they can give her a miracle.'

[Pre-Evolve phone call- All path is fortunate]

youtube

(T/N: IT’S VERY IMPORTANT TO HEAR THIS CALL FIRST so the date will make more sense)

[Date – Video ver]

youtube

(T/N: As always, I always recommend watching the video for a more comprehensive experience. Personally, I really like how tender and affectionate he sounds in this one and the bgm choice is good to set the mood~ Don’t forget to turn on CC!

If the direct video doesn't work - [Use this link]

(Besides, tumblr doesn't allow us to use an old text editor anymore so I can't add up more than 30 pics in this post. Tumblr post alone won't capture the change in background and sprite as usual(for reference I always have like 60+ pic in one post LOL))

[Date – Transcript ver]

[Part 1]

Lucien: MC, how are you?

The whole world is incredibly dizzy; waves of nausea and headaches erode my will, making breathing a little uncomfortable.

I lie in bed in a daze, trying to lift the corners of my mouth under his worried gaze, and I accept the medicine he hands me.

MC: It's just a little bit uncomfortable, but resting for a while should make it better.

MC: As expected, I shouldn't take flights directly next time. A train would be a better option even if it's slower…

After swallowing the medicine, I comfortingly tilt my head against him, feeling his warm fingertips brush against my cheeks and spine, guiding me as I slowly lay back down.

Lucien: (with a trace of guilt in his tone)…I'm very sorry.

MC: What are you sorry for?

MC: This was a decision and journey we both made together. I won't accept you shouldering all the responsibility on your own.

=Flashback Start=

MC: Hehe, this little pig looks even cuter than in the picture!

A month ago, I enthusiastically helped Lucien replace the phone case with a new one I bought for him.

After putting it on, I happily picked up my own phone, leaning against the side of the cabinet, and showed it off to Lucien who was washing dishes.

The two pink and chubby PUPU piglets are symmetrically posed, looking adorable and charming.

Lucien: (chuckle) Your taste has always been quite good.

MC: But if your colleagues see Professor Lucien using such a cute phone case, won't they think you're childish?

MC: Will I ruin your image?

Lucien: Whether it's childish or not, I don't think it can be reflected in a small phone case.

Lucien: Besides, their judgment doesn't hold much significance to me either.

Lucien: Forming the same scenery with another 'little piglet' appears to bring more happiness.

MC: Then let our brilliant Professor Lucien accompany me to be a 'happy little piglet' for a few months~

I couldn't help but laugh and noticed that Lucien's phone suddenly vibrated. A work approval notification popped up on the screen.

MC: It says that your colleague has arrived... take a look.

Lucien: Just go ahead and take a look for me.

He spoke casually, skillfully squeezing some dishwashing detergent onto a dishcloth, and then picking up a plate next to it to continue washing.

Receiving the "instructions," I naturally tapped open the message on the screen.

MC: It seems like a researcher named... Luo Ke wants to apply for a two-day vacation, saying he wants to travel to Tibet…

Lucien: Please approve it for me.

Seeing his familiar attitude, I didn't ask further questions. I simply pressed the "approve request" button silently.

Meanwhile, Lucien blinked slightly, his hand movements slowing down as he seemed to be contemplating something as well.

MC: You're not going to ask a few more questions about such a distant trip?

Lucien: This isn't his first time going there; he must have been there at least... more than ten times.

Lucien: Every time he's waiting for particularly important experimental results or article review feedback, he runs over there.

The last plate was placed in the dish rack, and Lucien wiped his hands. He took the phone and opened someone's social media feed for me.

Over the past few years, there were only a few posts, but almost all of them were various types of snowy mountain landscapes.

Lucien: It's evident that the place must have quite an appealing charm.

Lucien: It's probably indeed a miraculous place…

He paused, his tone tinged with a curiosity born from long-term observation.

MC: So, after he goes there, does he always have positive outcomes?

Lucien: Not necessarily.

Lucien: Moreover, I believe those favorable outcomes within the expected range reflect his dedicated and meticulous work ethic, which significantly reduces errors.

Lucien: However... (chuckle) Many times, science does indeed encounter unforeseeable things.

Hearing him say that, I also became curious.

Our gazes met, and we captured remarkably similar emotions in each other's eyes.

MC: How about we go there too—!

=Flashback End=

MC: But I've been exercising so diligently, taking the oral solution as prescribed, and yet I still got altitude sickness. It's frustrating.

MC: I saved time by taking a plane, only to spend it all on the bed…

Lucien: (chuckle) It's alright, we're not in a hurry to leave. Let's rest a bit more.

He adjusts the pillow, making me lie more comfortably, then leans down to gently kiss the corner of my mouth.

Lucien: Don't worry, I can always be your "oxygen" whenever you need it.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Part 2]

MC: I'm revived—!

After a night of rest, I feel much more refreshed the next day.

Lucien: Don't push yourself too hard. If you're feeling uncomfortable anywhere, make sure to let me know promptly.

MC: Got it. Once I get in the car, I'll cling to the oxygen tank.

I smile and sit in the passenger seat of the off-road vehicle that Lucien had rented in advance. Holding a small oxygen concentrator, I playfully shake my head at him.

Lucien also smiles, and we officially embark on our impromptu journey of curiosity.

Because of our unique random drawing system, we aren't heading to various popular attractions.

One of the destinations is Namtso Lake, where Luo Ke often goes, and the other is a snowy mountain selected by me through a random number selection.

The straight highway stretches forward, piercing through the distant expanse of blue sky.

The vast wilderness extends, and large masses of cumulus clouds join the surging herd of cattle, painting an exceptionally magnificent "Running Bulls".

The distant snow-covered mountains gradually impress upon the retina, resembling a distant and graceful maiden. The staggered peaks have been carved with fine craftsmanship, creating soft and graceful diagonal lines.

The deep and light sapphire blue blends from beneath the mountain peaks to above the sky, mingling in the middle and accentuating the pure white with a sense of sanctity.

I can't help but take a breath, letting this indescribable beauty fill my entire field of vision.

MC: When I was watching the video, I could probably guess why someone would choose to come here so many times.

MC: But now I completely feel it.

MC: The scenery on the way to Namtso Lake is also incredibly beautiful!

Lucien: Perhaps I should remind this classmate that our journey has only just begun.

He lightly presses the accelerator, and the vast land in the uninhabited area gradually sheds all its splendor, revealing its simple exterior.

And a vast expanse of blue quickly appears before my eyes.

MC: Are we almost there?

The vast world brings everything close as if it was always this near.

Lucien: Don't rush, there's still some distance to go.

Lucien: The place Luo Ke visited before is now closed, so we need to find another convenient place to stay.

The winding road leads us along the snow-capped mountains, revealing their magnificence even more. We drive alongside them, receiving a sense of being overlooked quietly.

After going through a somewhat bumpy road, Lucien temporarily parks the car on the side of the road and opens the carried drone.

And I carefully step out of the car, the cool and thin air making me slightly breathless, but it doesn't diminish my enthusiasm in the slightest.

While adjusting the frequency of my breaths, I take a few steps toward the vast bay of the lake.

Layer upon layer of mountains stands above the sea of blue, towering into the clouds.

The world seems to have turned into a sacred palette, where the Creator has reserved the purest colors for this place, bringing serenity to all things.

It's an exceptionally wonderful feeling, everything in front of me seems so distant and immense.

And my small self becomes like a grain of sand on a tidal flat, a drop of water in the lake, gazing up and silently embraced within it.

I unconsciously slowed down my breath. I turn my head and notice that Lucien had appeared by my side at some point.

His gaze is distant, reaching toward the far horizon. The subtle snowy backdrop frames him as if it's also blending him into this pure scenery.

Perhaps sensing my gaze, Lucien turns his face and looks into my eyes.

For a moment, neither of us speaks, as if words are the least significant part of our gaze.

His fingertips gently stroke up, like delicately traced kisses.

I don't know if it's because of this ethereal world, but I feel a certain piousness in his touch.

MC: Being able to come here with you and see these landscapes, there's nothing better than this.

Lucien: I should say, it's you who brought this unparalleled beauty to me.

MC: So your sleeping bag is for sleeping directly in the car?

MC: I thought you were only going to use it for a quick nap in the car.

As the sky darkens, after Lucien finds a place to park the car, I watch in surprise as he takes out a spare coat and sleeping bag, then folds down the back seats of the off-road vehicle.

Lucien: (chuckle) That was the original plan. I just changed my mind suddenly.

Lucien: Don't worry, its thickness is enough to keep both of us warm.

MC: I'm not worried about that at all. I was just wondering why Professor Lucien suddenly wanted to change the plan.

He simply smiles and hugs me, both of us slipping into the sleeping bag together.

Lucien: Although we came here out of curiosity, this journey belongs to us.

Lucien: I also want to be with you, to see more of the extraordinary beauty together.

MC: But it's not easy to see the scenery.

The air is chilly, and in the pitch-black darkness, I can't help but snuggle closer into Lucien's embrace.

Lucien: (chuckles) I suppose all beautiful things require sufficient time and effort to gradually form.

Lucien: Regardless, it's a pity that you didn't get to see the sunset at Namtso Lake, and even the stars have hidden themselves.

There's a rare touch of regret in his tone. Thick clouds obscure most of the sky, hastening the arrival of the night.

Outside the car window, there's an absolute silence. The heavy darkness fills the entire scene, not even a single starlight is visible.

It's as if everything has been gathered within this car, with the only exception being the gentle, faint interplay of light and shadows emanating from the car's display screen. The world outside has shut itself off, closing its windows to our view.

MC: But I did get to see such a unique night.

I lift my head from his shoulder with a smile, gazing into the hidden depths of his eyes.

MC: Spending the night like this in the wilderness is quite special too.

Lucien: I'm also glad to share such a miraculous experience with you.

Lucien: Although I've seen many landscapes, this kind of darkness appears especially beautiful.

MC: You're exaggerating. Professor Lucien can come here on his own too, right?

Lucien: (chuckles then speaks in a coquettish tone) It won't be the same.

He hugs me even tighter as if we too have melded together like the night.

Lucien: You have given them real significance, making them a sort of destiny.

Lucien: (softly) I think, there's nothing better than experiencing all of this together with you.

Even though everything is incredibly dark, I seem to see him more clearly, and he seems to see right through me as well.

MC: So many good things have happened around us. Maybe we've been blessed all along.

MC: Do you believe that?

Lucien: There's a possibility for the existence of everything that can't be proven, just as there's a possibility for their nonexistence.

MC: As expected of the rigorous Professor Lucien.

I smile and bury myself deeper into his embrace, feeling his familiar body temperature warming me amid this boundless cold.

MC: Then I hope I can see the miraculous "Golden Mountain" with you tomorrow morning.

MC: I hope that while we whisper our wishes, the snowy mountains can hear them and allow us to witness even more beauty together.

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But the snowy mountains seem to only want to listen to our whispers.

The thick clouds densely conceal the endless expanse of snowy white behind them, and the morning air is bone-chillingly cold.

The thin air forces me to hold onto the small portable oxygen device, shivering while stubbornly keeping my eyes wide open.

The scene in my field of vision is gradually brightening, but it's still a vast expanse of emptiness.

Amidst that magnificent landscape, we haven't witnessed a more wondrous scene.

Many times, the world is simply unreasonable.

MC: What a pity. If we had witnessed the "Golden Mountain" by the shores of Lake Namtso, it would have surely made us feel incredibly lucky.

MC: However, even though Professor Luo Ke has come so many times, he only caught a glimpse of it. And his experimental results still seem to be quite good.

MC: (smiles) So it's no problem, it's not that we have bad luck, we just don't have luck that's good enough.

On the road back, symptoms of altitude sickness paid me another visit.

After taking pain relievers, I lie a little bit dizzily in the passenger seat, my mouth couldn't help but mutter.

Lucien: This kind of randomness is quite interesting too, isn't it?

Lucien: We don't know when or in what circumstances we will encounter the most beautiful scenery.

Lucien smiled and there was no regret in his tone.

In the receding scenery, he looks so serene.

Lucien: The world would seem to be a much less interesting place if human beings could achieve their goals every time they beat their brains out.

MC: But even if not everything goes as planned, wouldn't you feel regret if most of your expectations couldn't be met?

Lucien: For me what's intriguing is the unknown.

Lucien: The outcome is merely a stepping stone toward the next unknown.

Lucien: Moreover... if most expectations aren't met, I believe there are more important things to consider than just feeling regret.

MC: Um?

He turns his head seemingly seriously, there’s a faint teasing glint in his eyes.

Lucien: Perhaps I should consider whether I need to change my job.

Lucien: Because unexpectedly, most of the outcomes have been failures.

I can't help but laugh, and all the unseen regrets are diluted at this moment.

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We chat and laugh all the way, the endless road carrying boundless conversations, accompanied by the clouds floating in the sky.

And I gradually relaxed, enjoying this journey with Lucien more peacefully.

Back at the hotel, we had a good night's sleep. The next day, we woke up early, full of energy, and drove to the next destination.

The number of cars on the road decreases as we go, and the journey becomes bumpier. We are like solitary yet content explorers, walking on a path that belongs only to us.

MC: …Strange, according to the map, the sacred mountain should be nearby, right? Did we take a wrong turn?

After navigating numerous twists and turns, I still haven't spotted our destination outside the window.

Lucien: MC, look up.

MC: Um?

I instinctively lift my head, and a blanket of pure white emerges in grandeur after a turn, suddenly filling the entire horizon.

Snow and clouds shroud the mysterious pyramid-like structure, while the clear sky-blue reflects on the mountain's contours, rendering it incredibly serene and sacred.

But that was just a blink of an eye in our journey.

When the car finally comes to a stop at the base of the outer lake, the world suddenly changes its complexion. Fine snowflakes are whisked into the air between the mountains, swiftly guiding us into a nearby guesthouse.

The room is relatively simple, but it's enough to shelter us from the wind and snow.

There aren't many other guests besides us, and the owner warmly welcomes us, bringing us warm milk.

I lean against the window, and the snow-capped mountains outside are already submerged in clouds and the feather-like flurry, making it impossible to see any features.

Lucien: (chuckle) This classmate might turn into a little snowman.

A gentle touch of fingertips brushes against my brow, smoothing out the creases there.

Afterward, a piece of clothing wraps around me, creating a barrier against the lingering cold air in the room.

MC: If I turn into a little snowman, can I reason with the snowy mountains then?

Lucien: The snowy mountains might not have control over the weather either.

He smiles, wearing a similar ethnic attire that he just gave to me, and nestles beside me.

MC: What is this?

Lucien: The weather grew colder. Although our clothes were warm enough, I borrowed two more pieces of clothing from the owner.

Lucien: Because I hope to be more than just a "guest" here with you.

He brushes aside my hair and helps me fasten the robe and belt.

Lucien: (chuckle) Let me accompany you in becoming a little snowman here.

Lucien: Blizzard or sunshine, it doesn't matter.

Lucien: They are all just a part of our life.

His voice is gentle, falling softly like the snow.

I understand what Lucien means, so I gaze at him for a moment and then immediately raise the corners of my mouth, affectionately tidying his clothes.

Suddenly, I remembered something and took out a ribbon from my backpack.

MC: Then we should try to blend in more with the local customs!

Lucien: When did you secretly buy this?

Lucien: (chuckle) I thought you were resting well the whole time, except when you were with me.

MC: Hehe, since you can take care of renting the car and various matters, it's okay for me to buy a little gift, right?

I smile and ask him to turn around. I gently stroke the soft hair at the nape of his neck.

Strands of silky hair twine around my fingertips, gleaming with a beautiful luster against the snowy backdrop.

MC: Your hair has grown quite long.

Lucien: I hope this little travel preparation will also make you happy.

MC: (laughs) So Professor Lucien even planned for this.

MC: But my preparation is on point too. I specifically learned braiding techniques for this region online.

The ribbon is woven through the small braids at the ends of his hair, and the end of each braid is adorned with a neat little knot tied with beads.

I place the headband on his forehead and hold his cheeks, looking at him repeatedly with a little smile tugging at the corners of my mouth.

Lucien: (chuckles and smiles with curved eyes) Are you satisfied?

MC: Couldn't be more satisfied!

It's as if my smile has infected him too. He then takes out a particularly unique headpiece and ribbons from his own backpack.

MC: How did you…?

Lucien: I can only say that our tacit understanding has always been like this.

He turns my body around, lifting my hair and slipping his fingers through it.

In the distance, the sacred mountain stands serenely, while snowflakes continue to drift down.

Lucien quietly holds and touches my hair.

At this moment, I can't see his face, but there's an incomparably sincere feeling of being touched tenderly and devoutly.

MC: I hope tomorrow will be good weather.

MC: And I can see the special "Golden Mountain" with you.

Lucien: This classmate seems to be more persistent than I imagined.

MC: Because... I want to see all the miraculous things in this world with you.

I lower my head, playing with the crimson bead strings, and surprisingly, I don't feel any urgency. Instead, a sense of tranquility fills me.

MC: Because this is something that only requires luck, just like the Northern Lights we witnessed together back then.

MC: A koi fish, a wonder... it's as if encountering these brings a bit of good luck.

MC: I hope the koi fish always jumps into your arms, and all the good luck can favor you.

MC: Even things that cannot be proven, may they stand by your side.

A pair of arms encircle my waist, gently pulling me back and drawing me into his embrace.

Lucien: (chuckles tenderly) Silly girl.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The snow and wind continue unabated.

The next day the sky is still filled with snow, and the possibility of seeing a sunrise is unlikely.

My heart is filled with regret, but I still muster my energy and get up. As I consider today's plans, I search for Lucien's figure.

MC: Lucien?

As I push open the door, in this world of pure white, everything comes rushing towards me—

Falling snowflakes, fluttering prayer flags, and the tinkling bells hanging from the yak's neck fill all of my senses all at once.

I stand there in a daze, gazing at those eyes that are as silent as this world, coming towards me from within the snow.

The incessant heavy snow falls onto his Tibetan robe, and he, like a figure from a painting, pulls the reins as the wind blows.

The swaying bells ring melodiously and echo in the mountains as if they are the melody of wind and snow.

Thin golden light bathes the mountain peaks, outlining the continuous undulating contours of the landscape in varying shades.

Like a divine oracle, pointing toward the end of the world.

Lucien: I seem to have heard you calling me.

At that moment, I felt a sense of relief, as if it didn't matter whether I saw the "Golden Mountain" or not.

Because I have already seen the God that came upon my call.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Part 4]

So it turns out Lucien went to explore the path ahead while the snow was lighter.

Lucien: I went to the side of the outer lake to take a look, but I still couldn't see much.

MC: It's okay, I think this is fine too.

Watching the swirling snow, I know that there probably won't be much of a chance today, but my mood is particularly relaxed.

MC: Isn't it nice to walk under the snow-capped mountains like this, accompanied by the light snowfall?

MC: And today is also the Qixi Festival. It feels like we're doing something particularly dreamy.

Lucien: I think what's really dreamy is something else.

He smiles and takes my hand, stepping on the light snow, and slowly walking in the mountains.

The world is covered by a layer of white dust, flying, quietly settling, gathering, and extending far into the pure white depths.

Between heaven and earth, there is no constraint in looking up or down.

Round and round, we finally return to the foot of the sacred mountain by the outer lake.

The lake is profound and unfathomable, holding sediments for countless years.

The wind stirs layers of ripples as we gaze across the lake, looking at the mountain hidden in clouds and mist as if looking at the gods hidden behind.

Countless ineffable emotions surge within my heart, leaving me only able to silently experience this brilliance and grandeur.

MC: Indeed, a lot of scenery is best experienced firsthand.

Lucien: I suppose this is probably the essence of traveling.

MC: We'll definitely come back here again in the future, right?

Lucien: Definitely.

Upon hearing his resolute response, I laughed softly.

I reverently place my hands together, raising them to my chest.

At this moment, my heart is tranquil. As I subconsciously pray, Lucien's name naturally appears in my heart.

I hope everything goes smoothly for him, his health remains strong, and he is safe and worry-free.

I hope he will never lose his curiosity about this world.

I hope he will knock on the doors to truth and reach even farther places.

I silently express in my heart; if there are truly unspeakable things in the world, I hope they can hear my wishes in this closest place to them.

Until suddenly, I feel a pair of warm palms covering the back of my hand.

I don't open my eyes, but for some reason, I know he is doing the same thing with me.

Even though I know he doesn't believe in anything, he has also made wishes with me countless times.

But now, will you still pray with me?

What will you pray to them for?

At this moment, everything seems to be quiet, as if wishing to carry the sounds of the world to even more distant realms.

But Lucien doesn't consider himself a believer in prayer.

The world is full of countless mysteries waiting to be explored and answered, and until accurate answers are found, he cares not the names humans bestow upon them.

Gods, heavens, destiny…

Even so, he's not sure of the reason, but there's always an incredibly real feeling of being touched gently and reverently by the girl.

As if cradled within the softness of her heart, embraced in her current prayer.

He feels that he is being blessed and protected.

An immensely heavy emotion burgeons within him at this moment, spreading to every part of his body, making him feel warm all over.

He can't help but close his eyes and press his forehead against the top of her head.

'I know that there must be things in the world that are unknowable.'

'I never set my heart on those illusory protections and blessings, only hoping for those silent bystanders to witness our smooth and winding journey through life.'

'But if there truly is something that can hear the sound of prayers, I hope they can give her a miracle.'

At that moment, he couldn't help but pray.

I slowly open my eyes, meeting Lucien's gaze, and we both break into laughter together.

MC: Lucien, just now the gods have already promised me that they will bless and protect you well.

Lucien: But I feel like I'm already being well blessed and protected by you.

MC: Then you just keep moving forward, you will definitely reach the place you hope for.

A tender kiss lands on my lips, devout and affectionate.

A fleeting moment can be engraved as if it were a thousand years, frozen in the gaze of the snow mountains.

At some point, the wind and snow stopped, and a subtle red tinted the area behind Lucien.

MC: How come the snow has turned red because of you…

As soon as my words fall, both Lucien and I suddenly freeze in place.

As Lucien turns around to reveal a vast expanse of vision, we witness a miracle.

Threads of golden light spill down, burning into the clouds and landing on the finally unveiled mountaintop.

As rows of clouds surge, that magnificent glow spreads across the mountain peak, turning red and then bright, casting a solemn aura over the sacred summit.

That touch of favor from the sun and the divine now fully rests before us.

The golden mountain is so vast, so bright, and even the floating clouds seem to bow their heads in reverence, offering all their respect, leaving only its radiance in the expanse of the sky.

I lost all words, only able to stare blankly at everything before me.

My gaze unintentionally becomes blurred, watching that intense deep red gradually transform into soft red, then quietly fade away.

Until that red light disappears, and the world falls silent once again.

The moment just now felt like a miracle.

MC: Lucien…

I excitedly throw myself onto him. Even though that scene was fleeting, it was enough to make me feel happy.

MC: We've seen it! We've seen the golden mountain!

MC: Something good is definitely going to happen!

He looks towards the mountain peak that has once again disappeared from sight, then looks at me.

He uses his fingertip to gently wipe away the tears in my eyes, then bends down to kiss my cheek, again and again.

In those deep eyes, I see the same emotions.

Sudden travel, random choices, silent scenery... Countless coincidences link together to become some kind of destiny.

Lucien: Probably since a long time ago…

Lucien: You've become my miracle itself.

[Post-Evolve phone call- Lab Koi]

youtube

[Karma Bonus Moments- Boundless]

Lucien's post: The magic of the world lies in the fact that amidst doubt and disappointment, anything is possible.

MC's reply: So, is it really possible that there's a "god" who can hear all our prayers?

Lucien: Perhaps there is some kind of "rule" that if two people love each other enough, all their wishes can come true.

Lucien's post: The magic of the world lies in the fact that amidst doubt and disappointment, anything is possible.

MC's reply: But what if nothing happens at all?

Lucien: Then it's just one of the many faces it's showing us.

Lucien's post: The magic of the world lies in the fact that amidst doubt and disappointment, anything is possible.

MC's reply: I hope that the direction it happens to be in is just the way you expect.

Lucien: I think that even if the world doesn't always align with our wishes, I'll remember your words and calmly navigate through every failure.

[Lux’s Rambling Corner]

What a very touching date🥺 I literally cried the first time I read them lmao. Both the art and writing of this date are truly exceptional, exceeding all my expectations. Perhaps it’s true that love has the power to create miracles and shape destinies.

I think the date tackle some heavy themes and questions. Are things like Gods or Heavens exist? and whether it's meaningful to pray for them without concrete proof. It also delves into the concept of human insignificance in the vast universe and the limits of our understanding. I believe this date provides satisfying and respectful approach to these questions. Although we can't know the absolute truth about such mysteries, it's perfectly fine to explore various possibilities. Praying or believing in such thing is okay because there's nothing wrong with taking more possibilities with your hand. While our time in this world is short and we might feel insignificant in the universe, it's comforting to follow your heart and make the most of every fleeting moment. Even a fleeting moment can be engraved as if it were a thousand years.

Regarding their interactions and dynamic in this date, the aspect that really struck me was how they view each other as something beyond humans, yet also manage to protect and care for one another in a very human way by praying. MC’s prayer is really touching, because you just can feel how much she just wishes to protect him and make him happy, his prayer even includes her wish for him to continue his curiosity; to find what he’s searching for; and, it’s just- very special you know? Because it shows how much she understands him and loves everything that makes him ‘Lucien’. And against rationality and logic, Lucien prays for her simply because he believes that she deserves all the good things in the world. What she wishes for, if there truly is god in the world, he hopes that god will realize her wish.

Still, the object of his devotion isn't the divine but his beloved. Because in his eyes, it’s her love that’s been blessing and protecting him all this time. This devotion is mutual, and it can be said that they’re each other's 'God' and believer. For her, Lucien is a 'God' that came upon her call, came from the snow and led her to see the golden mountain through wind and snow. While for Lucien, she is his cherished 'God', blessing him and letting him see color, allowing him to appreciate the beauty of the world in its fullest, and his ‘connection’ to the world.

This mutual devotion also shows through the repeated use of the term虔诚 (which translates to 'devout' or 'reverent' or ‘pious’) to describe their touches and I just- *died* everytime PG uses it. In other instances they also humanize the other, grounding them in the reality that they’re also humans that might experience failures and setbacks from time to time, but it’s totally okay of course, after all those are perhaps what makes life interesting. Anyway, this dynamic of humanizing and divinizing each other is a truly special aspect of their relationship and I can’t help but love them more for it.

Besides the aspect that I mentioned above, Lucien taking care of sick MC and their constant setbacks also add more bittersweet touch to this date. Lucien taking care of MC in particular, kind of gives me flashbacks of Distant Similarity UR. Lucien initially takes all of the responsibilities himself and MC reminds him again that he shouldn’t shoulder everything himself never fails to hurt me :”. And their constant setbacks… albeit a bit cliche, it’s also their brand to have angst with a happy ending right- That part when they accept that perhaps it’s simply not their luck to see the golden mountain is really melancholic yet also hopeful. Things might not go as planned, but it’s okay. Because as long as they have each other everything is good and there will always be the chance to try it again next time.

Other than those scenes, their interactions in this date are definitely brimming with sweetness and tenderness, from Lucien being certified love brain™ by letting her to change his phone case into something cute and childish while not caring what his colleagues think, ‘oxygen tank’ lucien (heh-), being two little snowmen together and my little fav scene when they have tacit understanding, it's as if they have this soul-deep connection and are able to communicate heart to heart, when Lucien somehow knows that she will do that and deliberately grow mullet for her to braid. Their mutual gift of headpieces and ribbon... when they braid each other hair, there's this magical feeling when they do that. It's as if they have this soul-deep connection and be able to communicate through heart 🥹.

Truly 10/10 date. I would put it on S tier with no second thought. If you read until this far- thank you so much for reading ahah. Hopefully y'all enjoy this date as much as I do~

#mlqc

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