#stf spoilers

[captain-amadeus]

The Protectors didn't want Sofia to face off Vor alone. They would've never put her up to such a danger mission voluntarily. Sofia was the only one who was able to do anything about Vor because she wasn't trapped with the other Protectors. The Protectors were absolutely worried about Sofia being on her own, but she was their only hope in stopping Vor. They didn't WANT her to be their only hope. They never WANTED her to fight alone. If it was up to them, they would've defeated Vor by themselves without Sofia, but they were forced to bring Sofia into this mess. And it wasn't even them who called her the second time. It was Vor mind controlling them. The first time they brought her to stop Prisma in the finale was where everyone was pitching in to stop her. Sofia does not do things alone, and when she does, it's when everything happens by surprise. like when Sofia finds Prisma with Grimhilde's crown. The Protectors didn't make Sofia find Prisma on her own. She just kept finding her trying to steal items from the Wicked Nine. She knows to get help from the Protectors because she threatened to call them on Prisma when she had the crown. And that's the thing: Sofia is not willingly left to do things alone. It's out of anyone's control to help her in the finale because they're either unable to or aren't aware of what's going on.

Say what you will about Sofia being too young to be a Protector-in-Training, but the Protectors didn't want Sofia to have to go through this. They didn't want their trainee to have the fate of the EverRealm dependent on her.

[hang-on-lil-tomato]

oh good! This one is all about season 1.

so not so spoiler-y as the other stuff MAX is turning out.

of course, normal people look at all the previews and go “ok, I might watch that.” And we look a the trailers, previews, teasers, and behind the scenes, capture EVERY nanosecond, and analyze it.

[ambriel-angstwitch]

Spoilers for the ROTTMNT movie but Sofia the First: Forever Royal’s ending felt so similar to the ROTTMNT movie ending. Let me explain:

Someone gets trapped in some sort of prison dimension type thing - Leo in the Prison Dimension and Sofia in the Amulet

Villian taunts them with something along the line of how the protagonist is all alone and now all the villains power will be focused on them alone and they will break them in one way or another - The Kraang to Leo and Vor to Sofia

Somebody feels to blame for the fact that person is stuck in the Prison- Amber because she suggested that they trap Vor that way and she wasn’t able to stop Sofia from being sucked in with her. Casey because he removed the key.

The entire group together pulls a risky magical thing to get them back- Cedric and everyone holding hands and doing the spell that they weren’t sure whether it would bring Sofia back or not, and if it did it might bring Vor back also. Mikey using his mystic powers while his brothers hold onto him, also partially with the risk of the Kraang returning

Like you can see why they felt similar. Also they both had mind control plots. Though Raphs mind control was a lot more violent than that in Sofia the First.

[elmentalwish]

nobody:

collei’s low hp line: I’ve been through worse!

collei’s fallen line: I knew... this day would come...

me: STOPPPPPP

[nouveau-pris]

also, firmly believe the STF are the real bad guys. i know indra (idk her name in this show) is out here physically threatening people but the old guard has only killed STF members… so

[ourpaladin]

imma need you to change Immediately

[train-whistles-at-night]

Saw you’ve been liking and blogging my stuff lately. I don’t blame you as I too adore Cedric and Sofia’s friendship. I could see him helping her with amulet related nightmares for the first couple of weeks post Forever Royal just to see his apprentice be her normal self again.

sobbing and crying,,,,, he just wants to help her feel ok again

[the-ellia-west]

HEY LOSERSSSS

Poll 1/2

This one is for Which WIP I should spend my time on (posting about) for the rest of this week

For TCOT you'd get a few scenes, a lot of progress updates, and I'd actually start getting back into EoW, you'd also get a ton of extra stuff. And if this gets enough votes, I may do a Character Q'nA because I'm bored

StF will get a bunch of Actual Scenes and for once, some actual character profiles, worldbuilding, ect.

J&R will all be hosted on @jakkon-and-rose-topic and have a few more scenes, some possible spoiler alerts, my plans for it as a series, and a ton of character dynamics and specific development to character Relationships we haven't explored yet

Then C4 will have me develop the stuff I do have written and show it to you. Actually make character profiles, maybe a map, and definitely some face claims I have for the characters because those are the most accurate face claims I have.

[Poll 2]

See mentions

@fanntasy131 @alnaperera @clever-naming-convention @pastellbg @smudged-red-ink

@ajgrey9647 @sl-vega @supersoakerfullofblood @jesusfreakspeaks @lunaeuphternal

@agirlandherquill @thepeculiarbird @illarian-rambling @caffeinated-and-annoying-bard @somethingclevermahogony

@phoenixradiant @ryahisbored @latay7 @sunnyjustice @nkikio

@bigwipscholar @kia-is-poisoned @justalittlebuddy @sunflowerrosy @danielleitloudernow

@aalinaaaaaa @corinneglass @mysticstarlightduck @cupandquillcafe @rivenantiqnerd

@katwritesshit @darkandstormydolls @cybercelestian @thelazywitchphotographer @njnetails

@aesthetic-writer18 @kitteafountain @mjparkerwriting @bloodmoonloveletter @artsandstoriesandstuff

@wyked-ao3 @words-on-pa-per @blue-kyber @vyuntspakhkite-l-darling @themortalityofundyingstars

@envycollective @urnumber1star @stars-forever @starmanbutitsregulusblack

I... did not know I had this many moots.... welp

[laxmiree]

[CN] MLQC Season 2 Chapter 51 Translation (Part 1)

⚠️  SPOILER ALERT  ⚠️ This post contains a VERY HEAVY SPOILER for the chapter that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~

Pushing open the door in front of him, he immediately saw the girl he had been searching for. 

She's all alone, confined within a glass container secured by layers of locks and cables.

The blinking red lights from the instruments cast an eerie crimson color on her. In that instant, he even felt like she might not be breathing anymore.

It's as if the last thread holding onto something in his mind had snapped.

Previous Lucien’s chapter -> [Here]

[Background Info]

VERY recommended to read [R&S Threshold] first for more pain

Anyway so- recently this phenomenon called space rift suddenly appeared in every corner of Loveland City. Many organizations including NW and STF have been keeping an eye on it. Lucien's chapter in this batch will be focusing on the 'the rifts'

Note that I won't delve deep into the "Odyssey" plot because it'll be the focus of Kiro's chapter. So, I will only write important plot points when the story touches that plot.

[Chapter 51-1]

There's a gaming company called Infinite that recently launched a new game called "Odyssey" and this game has managed to maintain its high level of popularity for several consecutive days. Things that's been happening like space "rifts", or discussions about the conference can't even dampen the enthusiasm about the game.

MC receives an unexpected collaboration invitation from Infinite. As she reviews the proposal, they discover that Infinite plans to use their latest virtual reality device, the Golden Apple3, for the game's promotion.

She remembers that she had experienced the previous version of that virtual reality device, Golden Apple 2 (1st Lucien's company story). In the end, her company quickly agrees to the collaboration because it's such a significant contract.

When MC returns home, it's already close to 10 p.m. And something strange happens after she steps out of the elevator.

It is almost ten o'clock when I return home from work. Just as I step out of the elevator, a sudden sense of deja vu runs through my body.

I hesitate and stop my steps for a moment, but that feeling has already disappeared without a trace.

I notice several packages piled up at my doorstep. As far as I remember, I haven't ordered anything recently.

I puzzledly try to pick up one of them, but my fingertip goes straight through the box!

MC: …!

I blink in disbelief, and the cardboard box lies perfectly intact at my doorstep as if what happened just now was just my imagination.

Am I so tired that my vision is playing tricks on me...?

I cautiously reach out and wave my hand, but the cardboard box in front of me remains untouchable as if it were a mere projection.

MC: (confused) ...What is going on?

The delivery boxes clearly have my name and address on them, but the shipping dates for all of these packages are... ten days later?

Feeling puzzled, a shadow falls beside me. I turn around, and a familiar person is standing behind me, seemingly out of nowhere.

MC: Lucien?

The strands of his bangs obscure the light, casting his already emotionless eyes into deeper shadows. The bandages wrapped around his wrist are soaked with oozing blood, the vivid dark red strikingly catches my eye.

MC: What happened to you!!

My heart tightens, and I hurriedly rush toward him, but my body "passes through" him just like it did with the delivery boxes.

In the next moment, Lucien disappears, leaving only a tightly closed door standing in front of me.

I touch the door in bewilderment; it feels cold and solid.

When I lower my head, the pile of packages at the doorstep has completely vanished without a trace just like Lucien.

MC: What on earth is happening…

??: MC?

I turn around in surprise and see Lucien walking out of the elevator with a smile on his face.

MC: Lucien-?!

I quickly walk over and, to his surprised expression, I push back his bangs.

His smooth forehead shows no signs of injury, and his deep eyes carry a slight hint of confusion, but he cooperates with my actions.

After confirming that there are no wounds on Lucien's body, I finally breathe a sigh of relief and meet his inquisitive gaze.

Lucien: Did this classmate here find something on my face?

I retract my hand from his waist, feeling somewhat embarrassed as I avert my gaze.

MC: It's nothing, I was just... I...

Seeing me a bit tongue-tied, Lucien smiles and soothingly takes my hand.

Lucien: Although I don't know what you were looking for, the hallway lighting isn't great. Come inside, and we can talk slowly.

(Lucien's 5th birthday bgm playing)

I sit on the sofa, cradling the perfectly warm hot chocolate, and take a sip. The sweet, aromatic flavor relaxes my entire body.

MC: I didn't expect Professor Lucien to start drinking this sweet beverage as well.

Lucien: While shopping at the supermarket, I remembered how you couldn't stop praising the taste of this chocolate, so I bought it.

Lucien: After all, if I invite you for tea at this hour, the Great Producer who works hard all day might have trouble falling asleep tonight.

Lucien sets his cup down and gently takes my hand.

Lucien: (getting closer) Now, can you tell me why you wanted to give me a "body checkup" as soon as we met?

I purse my lips and explain the "strange event" I just witnessed to Lucien in detail, my brow furrowing in puzzlement.

MC: Could what I saw just now be one of those "space rifts" that have been appearing sporadically in Loveland City lately?

MC: I got a little panicked earlier and didn't think about it at the moment.

Lucien: I understand. After all, concern can lead to panic.

I hear a low, deep chuckle beside me. I tilt my head slightly and am met with a deep smile, causing my ears to flush.

Lucien: But you're right; it should be one of those "space rifts," so there's no need to worry too much.

Lucien: It's not reality, at least not something happening right now.

Seeing my continued confusion, Lucien continues to speak.

Lucien: Recently, various organizations have been observing it, and I've also gathered some relevant information.

Lucien: It's caused by an unknown energy fluctuation, which tears open a "rift" in the present space and projects a "phantom" from the future.

Lucien: They can't be touched, and they don't affect reality.

Lucien: A more straightforward explanation would be some form of "foresight”.

I nod thoughtfully, grasping a certain point.

MC: So, these images from the future, are they bound to happen later?

Recalling him with bandages earlier, my heart tightens once again. As if he noticed my anxiety, Lucien clasps my fingertips and gently strokes them.

Lucien: (softly) I think the so-called doomed fate has long been shattered by you.

Lucien: Otherwise, the "doomed" comet destined for Earth should also follow its predetermined course.

His voice carries a reassuring certainty that can calm anyone as if nothing that happens can deviate from the path he holds in his hands.

Lucien: So there's no need to worry too much. Since I already know about this "future," I'll be even more careful.

MC: (worriedly) I'm just concerned if there might be any accidents... Professor Lucien, you won't be doing anything dangerous recently, will you?

Lucien: Hmm... (chuckle) Some of the experiments I'm currently working on do involve chemicals that aren't entirely safe.

MC: ... Are they toxic substances? Or the kind that could cause explosions?

Lucien: (chuckle then teasingly says)  Both, actually. But in my case, the likelihood of them occurring is almost zero.

His playful tone eases my concerns to some extent, but I still have a lingering unease. After some thought, I take out a few colorful ropes from my bag.

MC: Just in case, I want to add a "safety net."

MC: Yesterday, I had an interview right next to Grandma Wen's* shop, so I stopped by for a while afterward.

MC: She taught me a new knot, which she said could bring good luck.

Lucien leans quietly against my side, his fingertip lazily twirling the other end of the thread.

Lucien: Today, Pete was showing off the protective amulet he got from the temple at the research institute, claiming it's very effective and recommending it to everyone.

Lucien: But now it seems that I can get a more effective "amulet" without going to the temple.

MC: How could something I make be as good as something blessed at the temple?

Lucien: In Buddhism, the blessings of the Buddha are for all living beings. But what you make, all the intentions and feelings behind it belong to me alone.**

The subtle rise in his deep tone has an intoxicating effect and makes me feel entranced. In that momentary lapse of attention, the threads in my hand have become tangled.

The soft laughter in my ears carries a husky undertone as if he sees through all the restlessness in my heart.

MC: Please don't "cause trouble" Professor.

Lucien: Hmm? (chuckle) I'm just here to observe and learn.

He leans in beside me, watching attentively. After a while, a somewhat decent knot appears in my hands.

MC: (smiles softly) Although a bit superstitious, I hope it can help you ward off disasters.

Lucien: I heard that carrying these lucky charms close to your body enhances their effectiveness.

His fingertip gently traces the lucky charm, and he winks at me.

Lucien: (whispers charmingly) Would you be willing to help me put on this token of luck yourself?

*: Grandma Wen is the same grandma that taught MC to make a peace knot back in S1 chapter 9, she also appeared in Bound by Love SP (Chinese Wedding SP)~

**: This small bit is a nod to his 2023 Qixi Karma Date! 🥺. For him, her blessing and protection far outweigh any blessing that ‘god/gods’ can give him, and he is her most devout ‘believer’.

[Chapter 51-3]

After confirming cooperation with Infinite, MC is invited to experience the game device Golden Apple3 by them at the weekend.

On Saturday, I wake up early, and as soon as I push open the door, I notice that someone is already waiting for the elevator in the hallway.

MC: Good morning.

Lucien is wearing a casual but modest windbreaker. Upon hearing my voice, he turns around and there's a hint of surprise in his smiling eyes.

Lucien: You're up so early on a Saturday. Is there something going on?

MC: (smiles) I signed a collaboration with Infinite for their new game, and today, I'm going to try out their gaming equipment.

Lucien: Is it the game called "Odyssey"?

MC: Oh, you know about it too?

Lucien: Since the first-generation products of GA, they've been using a lot of technology related to brainwaves and data conversion.

Lucien: Today, they invited me to attend an internal neuroscience conference.

I recall the testing of their first-generation product with a little smile.*

MC: It's a shame I won't have another chance to be your “examiner”.

Lucien: So, you really like that role?

MC: Well, it's not every day I can get Professor Lucien to call me "Examiner".

The elevator doors also open as he speaks.

Lucien: Since our destination is the same, how about catching a ride with me, Miss Examiner?

They arrive quickly at the futuristic place. Once they're here, they part ways, and MC shakes her phone to Lucien to indicate that she'll contact him later.

MC is welcomed by the game producer, Bi Fang, who was rescued at the GR auction.

Because the game closed its first beta last week, she can't experience the game yet, however, she still can experience other things with the Golden Apple 3 device. With the accompaniment of a swan AI assistant called "Swan Lake" she experiences "Loveland City" in Golden Apple 3 VR. The technology is pretty great, "Loveland City" in the VR is identical to real-life Loveland City and her experience feels very real.

Guided by the swan, I stroll through the virtual Central Park. The refreshing air fills my senses as I gently run my fingers over the roadside flowers, their soft petals still carrying a cool morning dew, sticking to my fingertips.

I walk all the way from Central Park to my own home. Gazing at the apartment building in front of me, I'm unable to hold back my emotions.

MC: It's truly identical. It's just a bit quiet, a little more liveliness would be great.

Swan Lake: Received the request, I have polished the scene for you.

I haven't reacted yet when suddenly my vision blurs for a moment. When it clears again, there are many pedestrians in front of me.

Someone walks by talking on the phone, and people are playing with children downstairs. I ask the little black bird next to me in a daze.

MC: Are these also data?

Swan Lake: Yes, these scenes are simulated based on the environmental data we have collected.

As I speak, I even see the familiar security guard at the entrance nodding at me.**

The familiarity of the scene made me think that in the next moment, someone should come out of the apartment building, smiling and calling my name.

In the blink of an eye, it seems like there's a blurry figure gradually becoming clear behind the glass door.

I was about to speak when I suddenly heard a somewhat urgent "beep-beep" sound in my ears.

Swan Lake: Administrator permissions detected, experience will be terminated shortly.

The scene in front of me gradually dims, and the surrounding white noise disappears. The helmet is removed by someone, and the glaring light makes me squint.

Bi Fang mentions that the company is facing some issues and they need to evacuate. He doesn't explain more and looks a little anxious. Though MC is a bit puzzled, she quickly sends a message to Lucien and follows the crowds towards the escape corridor.

??: MC.

My wrist is enveloped by a warm palm, and when I turn around, I see that familiar figure.

MC: I just messaged you, did you also receive the notification?

Lucien: It's not clear what's happening yet. Let's follow the staff's instructions and leave this place for now.

??: AH– what's that?

An unknown commotion up ahead makes the orderly crowd move faster. Just as we turn the corner, I freeze in place at the scene in front of me—

An irregular, semi-transparent shadow hovers in the middle of the corridor. A faint mist emanates from it and slowly spreads to the side.

Lucien's brows furrow slightly as he tightens his grip on my hand.

Lucien: It's a rift.

I haven't had a chance to digest his words when the spreading mist gradually creates some kind of shadowy figures of nearby people, the shadowy figures slowly lining up in a long row.

MC: Isn't this rift a bit strange…

Lucien: If I'm not mistaken, it seems to be affecting reality.

*: She’s recalling Lucien’s first company cooperation story - [Simulation Project]

**: That security guard is actually Lucien's spy that often appears in some R&S, especially in [An Elusive Man] and [The Eyes That Witnesses] 😂

[Chapter 51-5]

The sudden appearance of the eerie phenomenon plunged the crowd into chaos. The black edges of the rift in the corridor also slowly expanded outward.

Lucien raises his hand a little towards the rift, and I suddenly feel a slight heaviness in my body. The air around me seems to distort for a moment.

I immediately realize he's exerting gravity, but the rift remains unresponsive.

At that moment, another powerful energy fluctuation sweeps through, elongating those eerie rows of shadows even further.

??: Ahh-!

Amidst the chaotic noise, a scream erupts as someone is pushed to the edge of the rift. In an instant, his body begins to turn transparent.

Lucien reaches out towards him but passes directly through the semi-transparent figure. Seeing this, I instinctively pulled him too.

At the moment of contact, a familiar power within me seems to resonate strangely with the surrounding energy.

Crackle—

A burst noise echoes through my eardrums as if a signal is being disrupted, and a blurry scene flickers before my eyes.

Crackle—Crackle—

A muffled and heavy roar reverberates in my ears as if many cold metal pieces are grinding and rotating.

In the blurry picture, I faintly see some huge, heavy gears surrounding me, slowly turning.

MC: ...Gears?

Lucien: MC!

I hear Lucien’s voice and snap back to reality.

The gears and sounds have all vanished, and in that instant, I feel a tangible sensation in my palm— I’ve caught that person.

Lucien grips my wrist and we pull that person out together. Then, we retreat to a more distant place with the crowd.

Lucien: Are you okay?

I shake my head in disbelief, subconsciously recalling the scene from just now. What were those rotating gears?

I lift my head and meet Lucien's concerned gaze, noticing that his expression hasn't changed. The people around us are still in the same state of panic.

I instinctively ask.

MC: Lucien, did you see anything just now?

He shakes his head, his gaze conveying a mixture of confusion and inquiry, indirectly confirming my conjecture.

I'm the only one who sees those mysterious gears.

At this moment, a resounding and powerful sound echoes down the corridor as a team dressed in Special Task Force uniforms marches through, taking control of the chaotic scene.

STF Member: An Evolver with an uncontrollable ability has appeared inside the building. The Special Task Force has already taken control. Please do not panic and evacuate orderly through the stairs.

After receiving clear instructions, the crowd that was previously in disarray slowly regains order.

As they move further away from the rift, the distortion gradually fades.

STF Member A: The situation here is dangerous. Please cooperate with the evacuation.

The special forces officer stands between us and the rift, not allowing anyone to get closer. Lucien calmly glances at the rift that almost swallows the corridor.

Lucien: This rift is different from what we've encountered before. It just exhibited characteristics of reality interference a moment ago, and it's still expanding its scope.

Lucien: Apart from simply evacuating the civilians and controlling the scene, you might need to prepare additional measures.

The STF officer hesitates for a moment, and it seems that he hears something through his earpiece. After listening, he nods in agreement with Lucien.

STF Member A: Thank you for the information. Please leave this area for now.

I look back at that dark silhouette again before I am led away from the building by Lucien.

—-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back in the car, I fasten my seatbelt and still feel a bit anxious.

MC: Lucien, what will happen after that rift?

Lucien: I'm not entirely sure, but the Special Task Force should have a plan in place to prevent any major repercussions.

Listening to this, I feel relieved and lean back in the car seat, recalling the sensations I felt when I caught that person.

Like an unspoken connection, Lucien also thinks of the same thing, and he slightly glances at me.

Lucien: How did you manage to catch that person just now?

MC: I'm not entirely sure, but I felt a surge of power resonating with the CORE, and then I can hold that person.

Lucien remains silent for a moment, as if contemplating something.

Lucien: My Evol can't interfere with it, but yours can. Perhaps it's because of the unique nature of your power.

MC: Are you talking about... CORE?

Lucien: This is just my speculation, after all, CORE possesses many powers that we have yet to fully understand.

I look at my palm in silence, carefully recalling the resonance of power I felt when I caught that person.

Lucien's guess is probably correct. But why can the power of the CORE interfere with the rift?

And also, the spinning gears I saw for that brief moment…

In the rearview mirror, Infinite's building gradually fades into the distance, but there's always an indescribable unease lingering in my heart.

The car comes to a slow stop at a red light, and a hand gently covers my cold hand.

Lucien: Everything happens for a reason.

Lucien: Don't worry too much, every problem has its corresponding solution. It may just take more or less time to find it.

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

The sunlight casts long diagonal shadows through the window, spreading across the papers strewn on the floor.

The young man with green hair sits on the floor, scribbling furiously. Messy equations occasionally fly off the edge of the paper, getting written halfway on the floor.

"The results will vary based on the change in C, but each time, it only gets infinitely closer to the threshold..."

Suddenly, a shadow appears on the windowsill. Joker doesn't pay it any mind, he just moves his papers to where there's more light and continues writing rapidly.

Along the windowsill, a young boy swings his legs and pouts.

Uno: Joker, how long do you plan to stay cooped up in here? Something interesting happened outside today.

[Chapter 51-7]

After close monitoring by the Special Task Force, the rift that had taken hold in the Infinite building completely disappeared after one day.

MC: "According to the investigation, the rift inside the Infinite building was caused by intense Evol fluctuations."

MC: "If any citizens witness similar phenomena, please don't hesitate to contact the Special Task Force at any time..."

After dinner, I lean back on Lucien's sofa, scrolling through today's news.

MC: ... I didn't expect this rift to last so long.

MC: The official explanation in the reports also matches what the Special Task Force explained on the scene yesterday.

Lucien: Until we have gathered enough information, this explanation is the least likely to cause a commotion.

The sofa next to me sinks slightly, and his familiar clean scent lingers around me. I relax and lean back, letting out a yawn.

From yesterday until now, that indescribable sense of worry in my heart has grown stronger.

I keep finding myself thinking about the rotating gears I saw when I got close to the rift and the constantly stretching shadows in front of it.

These scenes are remarkably similar to what I witnessed before at the ruins.*

Could there be a connection between the two? Is it related to the CORE?

Unconsciously, I let out another sigh, and Lucien gently ruffled my hair.

Lucien: (gently) Is it the rift from yesterday that's making you feel so uneasy?

MC: Sigh, it seems like I can never hide any little secrets from you.

Lucien: (smiles) This classmate has practically written her little secrets all over her face. Besides, you seemed a bit distracted during dinner just now.

MC: It seems like I've been a bit overly worried...

Lucien: In most cases, people don't feel uneasy about things they are certain of.

Lucien: So, turning the unknown into the known, and the out-of-control into in-control will alleviate those worries.

Listening to his words, I hesitate for a moment but still decide to tell him about the gears I saw yesterday and the "prophecy" I once witnessed in the ruin.

Lucien listens quietly, his expression shifting from a brief surprise to deep contemplation.

Lucien: Are you saying that yesterday, when you came into contact with the rift, you briefly saw a scene with many gears?

Lucien: And not long ago, you also saw a similar scene through the power of the CORE in a ruin.

MC: It seems a bit different... What I saw in that ruin, in addition to gears, there were also many human….

MC: Uh, something like "worms"?

Lucien: …'Human worms'?

MC: Yes, and then those gears eventually devoured them all…

Lucien ponders for a moment, and his eyes light up.

Lucien: Are these "worms" you mentioned similar to the shadowy figures we saw in front of the crack yesterday?

MC: If I must say, there is indeed a resemblance, but the worms I saw in the ruins were much longer than those shadowy figures.

Seeing me gesturing enthusiastically, Lucien takes out paper and a pen from a nearby cabinet and begins to write and draw on it.

Lucien: MC, have you ever heard of "four-dimensional worms"?

MC: Four-dimensional worms?

Faced with unfamiliar terminology, I shake my head.

Lucien: In the current dimension, we can only see ourselves in the present moment.

I glance sideways— Lucien is focused on the diagrams drawn on the paper, with a faint upward curve at the corner of his lips.

Lucien: But suppose we step into a higher dimension, the abstract concept of time, which is originally intangible, becomes a visible "axis."

As he sketches, a person's form from birth to old age is stretched out along a long line.

Lucien: And this shape might look like a "worm"... perhaps you've seen similar concepts in many movies.

Lucien: So I speculate that within the area where the rift appeared, there may have been a momentary phenomenon of "transitioning into the fourth dimension."

A simple sketch falls onto the paper, the slender, worm-like shape making the scenes from the ruin become even clearer in my mind.

MC: Yes... it looks just like this! Like a person stretched infinitely!

MC: So, what I saw in the ruin was actually people transforming into a four-dimensional form?

Lucien: That's right, those shadows near the rift could also be part of the "four-dimensional worm".

MC: But what could this signify?

The air falls silent once more, and Lucien speaks after a moment of contemplation.

Lucien: Some phenomena may only be visible to you as CORE, and they each have their own significance.

Lucien: Can you try to recall where else you've seen similar situations? Perhaps that could be part of the answer.

His question makes me feel anxious.

Of course, I've seen them—behind the gate known as the truth of the world.

But why did the scenes that should have appeared behind the gate show up when I touched the rift?

Complex thoughts are continuously welling up as if some subtle and unnoticed change has already begun.

Lucien: (tenderly) Are you thinking of some difficult questions?

MC: I'm just thinking... why did it appear?

Lucien: That's a very straightforward question indeed.

MC: Lucien, perhaps you know something?

He pauses for a moment, his fingers gently twirling around my hair as he plays with it.

Lucien: Because of the lack of evidence, I currently only have speculations... My guess is that these various phenomena might be related to that comet.

MC: ….!

Lucien: The earliest energy fluctuations that appeared within Loveland City coincided with the conclusion of the strange celestial phenomena brought by the comet.

Lucien: So my speculation is that perhaps it's a little "surprise" left for us by the comet. Of course, it could also be an entirely new phenomenon.

MC: I can’t believe it was so long ago…!

The timing seems too coincidental. Could the rift truly be connected to the gears or that door?

My mind is in chaos, and I sigh tiredly. In the next moment, I feel tightness around my waist as Lucien pulls my whole body into his embrace.

Lucien: In most cases, solving problems is the best way to dispel uneasiness.

Lucien: But if the problem can't be solved immediately, there are other little tricks to temporarily ease your mind.

Feeling his arm holding me tighten slightly, I bury my head into his chest and speak in a muffled voice.

MC: Then… Please help me, Professor Lucien.

Lucien: (in an almost whisper) Now, slow down your breathing rhythmically.

I begin to breathe slowly as he instructed. Soon, the faint scent of tea submerges my entire body.

Lucien: (whispers softly) Now, close your eyes and imagine yourself entering a place that makes you feel relaxed...

*BG changes to camphor tree*

As he speaks, a lush camphor tree appears in my mind. A gentle breeze rustles the leaves, and there seems to be a faint, earthy freshness brushing against my face.

Lucien: Everything that made you uncomfortable seems to have turned into specks of dust in your hands, and you are scattering them into the world.

A deep and slow voice by my ear is carrying a persuasive and gentle inducement.

I subconsciously raise my hand as he instructed, and that inexplicable feeling of unease that had been lingering in my heart seems to have truly diminished.

*BG changes back to Lucien's home*

MC: Lucien, did you perform some kind of magic trick?

Lucien: (chuckles and then whispers softly) It is a 'magic' that already exists in your body, I'm just giving it a little push."

Lucien: When people hug, their bodies produce serotonin and endorphins, which temporarily override negative emotions.

I nuzzle against his neck and shoulder lingeringly, hoping that this hug can last a little longer.

MC: I feel that it was Professor Lucien's presence that made all the negative emotions in my body disappear.

Accompanied by the low murmur by my ear, the arms holding me are squeezing tighter, deepening this hug even more.

Lucien: (whispers) So, are you feeling better now?

MC: Mm..

I take a deep breath.

Many things don't simply disappear by avoiding them, and I'm not alone right now.

Because the person who can help me uncover the secrets of the rift is right in front of me.

MC: Lucien-

Lucien: MC-

The simultaneous sound makes both of us stunned, but then we exchange smiles.

[Option 1: You speak first]

MC: You speak first.

Lucien: MC, have you ever considered... personally investigating what the rift really is?

Lucien: For you right now, this might be the quickest way to alleviate your uneasiness.

Words that felt like a meeting of our hearts and minds* left me momentarily astonished. I tilt my head to look at him.

[T/N: always love it when they use the word 灵犀 🥹. There’s no exact english word for it, I usually translate it as ‘tacit understanding’; but even that doesn't do it justice. It conveys the idea that two people understand each other's thoughts and feelings as if they share a special, almost psychic and soul-deep connection]

MC: (smiles softly) Is that also written on my face?

Lucien: (chuckles) No, this is a direction I've speculated about based on my understanding of you, perhaps one that you might find interesting.

Lucien: And for me, it's also what I need right now.

Lucien: Actually, I've been wanting to speak up today to formally invite you to help me with this favor, but I haven't found the right moment.

Lucien: MC, I need your power to continue exploring the secrets of this rift.

MC: Is it because CORE's power can interfere with it?

Lucien: Yes. I've tried before but never succeeded.

Lucien: But you might be the turning point.

Lucien: Of course, exploring the unknown comes with certain risks. So it's not an obligation, you have the right to refuse.

I tilt my head slightly and wink at him.

MC: Professor Lucien took the initiative to ask for my help, how could I refuse?

Once, when I was lost and hesitant, it was the person in front of me who gave me the answer - that only by always moving forward can you stay ahead of the world.

And now, it seems I have finally reached a point where I can move forward side by side with him.

I smile and extend my hand to him.

MC: Happy cooperation, Lucien!

Lucien: I look forward to working with you.

-

[Option 2: So... should I go first?]

MC: So… should I go first?

Lucien: (chuckles softly) Of course.

His lips curl up slightly, waiting for my next words.

MC: If I'm very interested in this rift, would you help me?

His gentle fingertips lightly pinched my ear, the sensation felt like a delicate and soft kiss.

Lucien: How could a teacher refuse to provide extra guidance to a diligent student? Moreover, this happens to align with my wishes as well.

MC: Your wishes?

Lucien:  Actually, I've been wanting to speak up today to formally invite you to help me with this favor, but I haven't found the right moment.

[T/N: the convo stays the same as the other choice after this]

[Chapter 51-8]

"Authentication successful, identity: visitor."

I swipe the visitor card to open the gate and follow Lucien into the grayish-white-toned corridor of the Bioultima Research Institute.

He leads me to an unfamiliar room and makes a welcoming "please come in" gesture.

Lucien: Please come in, little researcher. This is our "classroom" for today.

I look around this clean and simple small research room, noticing some equipment that's different from what's usually found in normal research institutes. There's also a door on one side of the room.

MC: Is there another room inside?

Lucien: Yes, inside is today's "practice" area.

Lucien then walks over to me, and using fingerprint verification, he opens the hidden door. The moment the door opens, I can feel a faint but very familiar power.

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The small room is empty, but in the corner, there appears a cabinet with only one corner.

The cabinet is "torn" by highly irregular lines, as if someone tore a piece of paper in half, and I can faintly see a border that's softly shimmering.

MC: Is this... a rift?!

Lucien: That's right, it's a rift that appeared five days ago, and I've managed to keep it here using some special methods.

MC: Can I take a closer look?

Lucien: (chuckles) Just in case, put this on first.

Lucien fastens an electronic bracelet onto my wrist.

Lucien: This bracelet will suppress your Evol. Once it detects an overload of CORE's power, it will activate a protective mechanism.

Lucien: This is to prevent your power from resonating excessively with the rift's power, avoiding any accidents.

I reach out to the rift and pass through it as I did last time, bumping into the cold wall.

Lucien: I've tried various ways to "communicate" with it, but all have failed.

Lucien: However, based on past experiences, I suspect that under the influence of CORE, the rift will establish some connection with reality.

Lucien: So that's why I hope you can help me verify this idea today.

MC: What do you need me to do?

Seeing my eager anticipation, Lucien smiles.

Lucien: I need you to use the power of CORE on the rift.

Lucien: If we successfully link the rift to reality, we can observe the other side of it.

MC: Make observations?

As soon as I finish speaking, a small robot drives in from the next room and stops in front of us.

Lucien: Mm. If it works, it will record what's on the other side of the rift for us.

Lucien: We can begin when you’re ready.

I nod, thinking that using my ability shouldn't be too difficult. So, I take a deep breath and concentrate on gathering that familiar power within me.

Soon, I feel a faint vibration coming from the other side of the rift.

At the same time, the instrument's screen starts displaying a large amount of data.

Lucien observes the ever changing data with a clear smile in his eyes.

Lucien: We've successfully influenced the rift.

After Lucien adjusts the parameters of the small robot, I nervously watch it slowly move forward. When it reaches the rift, its figure shimmers and merges with the scene on the other side.

Lucien: It has arrived on the other side of the rift.

MC: That's great!

I excitedly take Lucien's hand and shake it, and a small smile spreads across his lips.

Through the camera on the robot, we obtain some data.

MC: On the other side of the rift is the Bioultima Research Center 37 days from now. The passage of time there is the same as it is now...

The constant use of power has left me a little sleepy and I rub my temples.

MC: Lucien, what should we do next?

Lucien:  I want to try to see if I can get my Evol to affect the rift through the power of CORE, but….

He winks and gently taps the edge of my eyebrow.

Lucien: This diligent little researcher, why don't you take a rest for a while?

MC: I'm fine, I can continue.

I take a moment to collect myself, and see Lucien pause for a moment before turning around and leaving. When he comes back, he puts something white and fluffy in my hand.

The plush and soft texture wraps around my palm, and I lower my head to see a cute white round mochi-shaped keychain lying in my hand, with a pair of bright, lively eyes embroidered on it.

MC: This is... from KIWI's new little mochi series!

Lucien: I remember you mentioned passing by this shop before and how it always gets sold out.

Lucien: I happened to see a shop assistant restocking them on my way to work earlier, so I got one. Originally, I intended it as a gift for the lucky charm, but it has been sitting here all this time.

Lucien: Let it be your cheerleader, and boost the spirits of this hardworking little researcher.

Lucien picks up the little keychain and gives it a couple of shakes while saying this. The fluffy and bouncy little ball truly seems to be cheering me on.

I giggle and hold the soft toy in my hand.

MC: With this "cheerleader" cheering me on, and the great Professor Lucien keeping watch, I feel a lot more energized, so let's continue.

Lucien smiles and holds my hands in return.

Lucien: Don't be nervous. What you're about to do is similar to what you just did, and you can do it very well.

I close my eyes and awaken the power within me once again.

At the same time, Lucien also extends his hand – a sense of oppression emanates from all around, and the shimmering edge of the rift seems to be suddenly suppressed by an invisible force.

Unlike the situation during the interference at Infinite earlier, the rift clearly starts to contract under the influence of CORE.

As the power is released, I feel myself increasingly in conflict with a massive force.

This sensation presses down on me so hard that I can't catch my breath, and my breathing becomes increasingly rapid.

Lucien seems to sense it too. He squeezes my hand and asks if I want to stop. But when I look at the rift that has already compressed to a small size, I grit my teeth and shake my head.

The sudden contrast was so great that for a moment I was in daze. I gasp for breath, and the soothing pats on my back bring my restless heart back to its place.

The wall in front of us is clean, and the rift that had shown a corner of the cabinet has disappeared.

MC: Do we... succeed?

I look at Lucien uncertainly, and he nods slightly.

Lucien: (smiles and says in a proud tone, hint of astonishment in his voice) Yes, the first experiment to artificially close a rift is a success. Congratulations to this little researcher.

The sunlight gradually slants westward, casting a warm glow on his hair and softening the profile of his face.

I look at his eyes that still shining brightly in the gradually darkening twilight and find it hard to take my eyes off him.

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Perhaps due to the exhaustion of my power, my brain feels a bit dull. I obediently let Lucien lead me to the sofa in the outer room and sit down.

— The next moment, a hand covers my eyes.

Lucien: Take a good rest.

His body heat, carried by his dry fingertips, adds a layer of warmth to the part of our skin that's pressed against each other.

MC: Professor Lucien, what do you usually think about when you're tired?

Lucien: Most of the time, I have many research projects at hand. If I get tired of one, I switch to thinking about another.

MC: ….

Lucien: Of course, there's one subject that never tires my brain no matter how long I think about them.

Not hearing another response, I curiously open my eyes, and through the gaps between his fingers, I catch a glimpse of his slightly upturned lips.

The last rays of the setting sun hide within his gaze as he looks at me.

[Chapter 51-9]

Subtitled Video

Transcript

MC: Do you want to replace the robot and personally go into the rift?

After successfully closing the rift in the small room, we discovered a new rift in the alley near the research institute.

Lucien used a device that utilizes space-fold to "transport" this rift into the small room for further study.

On the second day, right after the successful completion of the research, he suddenly said he wanted to go inside the rift himself.

Lucien: The robot's range of movement and recorded data are both very limited. To obtain more information, seeing it with one's own eyes is the most effective way.

Lucien: We can now stabilize the rift's intervention time at 4 hours and 25 minutes using CORE's energy.

Lucien: Although it's not a long time, it should be enough to gather some information.

The rift experiments of these past two days haven't caused any danger, but I still have some inexplicable worries.

The image of Lucien with injuries and bandages in the rift that I saw back then resurfaces at an untimely time, intensifying my worries.

Based on the delivery at my doorstep around that time, it's roughly about a week from now.

MC: So when do you plan to enter the rift?

Lucien: One week from now, next Sunday.

Perhaps noticing my somewhat stiff expression, he sets down the report he was holding and walks over to me.

Lucien: What's wrong?

MC: …Lucien, do you still remember when I saw bandaged "you" at my doorstep before?

Lucien nods with an understanding look.

Lucien: According to that timing, next Sunday happens to be the day I got injured in the rift that you saw.

MC: (worriedly) Although I don't know if your injury is related to entering the rift...

MC: But just to be safe, it's probably best not to attempt anything risky on that day.

Lucien: (chuckles) Alright, I promise you. If we make it through that day safely, that "future" will also take care of itself.

Lucien: I'll postpone the planned time by one week and make some more thorough preparations.

I sigh in relief and nod. Lucien won't stop exploring because of such a thing, but for now, it's enough to give me some peace of mind.

MC: Then I'm going with you in two weeks!

His eyes flicker with a hint of surprise, then his eyebrows arch, and a soft smile spreads across his lips.

Lucien: Okay.

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The night before “Lucien” got injured in the rift, I was still so nervous that I couldn't sleep much even though we postponed entering the rift.

The next morning, I arrived at the company tiredly with dark circles under my eyes.

Every half an hour, I send him a text message. I have lost count of how many times I have checked my phone screen by now.

MC: ...It's been a minute, why hasn't he replied yet?

Not even a single word of the lengthy document in front of me enters my eyes, and I anxiously tap with my fingertips.

Buzz, buzz – my phone finally vibrates, and I quickly unlock it. Lucien seems to have sensed my anxiety, and he replies promptly to each of my messages.

Under my constant "supervision", the day passes without incident.

Finally, I can heave a sigh of relief and fully immerse myself in the promotion work for "Odyssey".

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I didn't send out the first batch of promotional advertisements until the end of this week. I walk into the residential area under a sky full of stars and let out a yawn.

Lucien has also become very busy these days, and I can only hear his voice in a few hurried phone calls.

The chat page has been stuck at noon more than a day ago.

MC: I wonder how the preparations are going…

The elevator door opens, and just as I'm about to press the floor button, a figure rushes in before the doors close.

I instinctively turn my head, falling defenselessly into a pair of smiling and dark eyes.

Lucien: Good evening, it seems that I got lucky today and ran into someone I wanted to see before going to bed.

MC: Are you done with your work?

Lucien: Mm, there was a project at the institute that needed to be rushed recently, so I was quite busy, but it's over now.

The elevator's light makes the dark circles under his eyes more pronounced, and I hold his hand with a hint of concern and distress.

MC: Are you feeling tired? Is tomorrow's plan still the same?

Lucien: Of course, it remains the same.

Lucien: Don't worry, I've set aside some time for rest, which is why I could rush back now.

Although he can't conceal his fatigue, there is a bright glint in his eyes, as if he eagerly anticipates tomorrow.

As the elevator arrives, he holds my hand and walks me to the doorstep of my home.

At my slightly confused gaze, he leans down and gently approaches me. A hint of white tea's scent fleetingly tickles my nose, and I feel a warm sensation pressing on my forehead.

In the quiet hallway, only his gentle voice resonates in my ears, accompanied by the pounding of my heart in my chest.

Lucien: (gently) Good night. I hope we both have a good dream tonight.

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

Even though I have already made up my mind, I’m still feeling nervous the next day when I put on the bracelet at the Bioultima Research center.

Lucien straightens out my sleeves and takes hold of my hand.

Lucien: The device to maintain CORE energy is ready. We can depart at any time.

Lucien: Let me confirm one last time, are you really going with me to visit 37 days in the future?

The warmth in the palm of my hand is gentle, carrying a soothing touch. I take a deep breath and nod.

The warm sunlight filters through the window glass, casting a glow on the corners of his upturned lips. It feels as if we're not heading to the unknown land, but towards paradise.

The tightly clasped hands convey his longing into me, and I know that I only need to move forward without hesitation now.

The moment I step into the rift, a tremendous surge of energy comes crashing in—

I barely have time to react before I'm thrown into the chaos. I attempt to reach for Lucien's hand but find that my body seems to be out of control.

I want to scream, but I realize I can't even open my mouth. Amid the chaotic dizziness, I faintly hear some voices.

??: Energy transfer... 132%, detecting... consciousness retained.

??: Increase... output.

The words sound like fragmented whispers, as if there's a thick barrier between me and them. But soon, the voices around me begin to fade away.

In its place, there's a heavy and distant roar that’s not unfamiliar to me.

My body seems to be floating, and I struggle to open my heavy eyelids—

In the void, massive and worn gears surround me. My body is so tiny that I feel like nothing more than a speck of dust that has drifted in, instantly swallowed by the rotating air currents.

With a discordant shattering sound, a massive gear comes crashing down, and its colossal debris hurtles past me.

Crackle—

The familiar noise flashes through my mind again, and I'm dragged down into the abyss of consciousness by that great force.

In the midst of excruciating pain that feels like it's about to tear me apart, I regain some control over my body, and I struggle to open my eyes—

The scene before me is like being submerged in water, and I can only vaguely see many white figures moving about.

Cold seeps into my body through every crevice of my skin, and at the edge of my slightly distorted field of vision, I catch a glimpse of a black cable floating by.

Am I in... water?

The moment I realize it, a wave of suffocation rapidly spreads throughout my body. I instinctively open my mouth to breathe, and the icy water rushes into my nostrils and throat—

Who will come to... save me?

There's a white figure that seems to have noticed me, approaching and then stops nearby.

Shortly after, a stronger surge of energy rushes into my body accompanied by pain—

Just when I thought I might be torn apart, the door in front of me is pulled open forcefully. In a daze, I seem to I catch a glimpse of a familiar silhouette—

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At the moment he passed through the rift, Lucien felt a surge of electricity tearing through his brain. Before he could even think about what it was, his palm suddenly no longer held her.

When he turned around, he found that the person next to him had disappeared.

The place in front of him was not unfamiliar, it was the narrow alley near the Bioultima Research Institute where the rift had appeared.

He undoubtedly had successfully reached the time and space beyond the rift, but there was no sign of her anywhere.

Lucien's face darkened, and an inexplicable anxiety that he couldn't suppress spread throughout his body along his veins.

His heart was pounding rapidly in his chest, but he suppressed this restlessness and quickly walked towards Bioultima Research center.

The researchers occasionally passing by in the corridor displayed expressions of surprise, but he paid them no mind. He simply quickly located the room where they had been researching the rift.

Here, he was most likely to find the information that could explain the current situation. However, when he opened the computer and saw the time, his eyes widened in surprise.

The time displayed on the computer screen was 74 days later.

Confusion and anxiety twisting into a knot in Lucien's heart. He furrowed his brows and opened the folder on the device.

Dozens of files were spread out densely in front of him, and he quickly moved the cursor, scanning over each title.

With sharp eyes, he caught sight of the letters "NW," and his hand paused before clicking on that file.

《Four-Dimensional Rift Stabilization Using CORE Utilization Plan》

Text laden with a wealth of information flowed rapidly before his eyes, and an abundance of data surged into his mind. He could feel the rushing blood in his brain intensifying with each passing moment.

"As a higher-dimensional entity, CORE exists in one and only one timeline across all temporal axes..."

As he continued to advance through the information before him, his gaze gradually turned colder and sharper.

-As it turns out, the world was already changing as a result of the shift in trajectory.

He knew where she would be.

The information in front of him undoubtedly can answer many of his curiosities. However, at this moment, these important pieces of information hold no appeal in his eyes.

He closed the document, preparing to leave, but then he noticed that the notebook on his desk was open. There’s only two scribbled numbers that seem like coordinates on it.

The handwriting belonged to him.

Lucien: ….

The fragile paper was covered with thin ice, shattering on the floor, and the shattered ice shards reflected the darkness in his eyes.

In the blink of an eye, the scene before him shifted, and the next moment, he found himself in a cold and desolate corridor of NW.

Perhaps he should have made a more thorough plan before taking action, but he didn't want to wait any longer.

Pushing open the door in front of him, he immediately saw the girl he had been searching for. She's all alone, confined within a glass container secured by layers of locks and cables.

The blinking red lights from the instruments cast an eerie crimson color on her. In that instant, he even felt like she might not be breathing anymore.

It's as if the last thread holding onto something in his mind had snapped.

Everything in front of Lucien's eyes was dyed with a layer of crimson red.

Before even more frightening thoughts came to his mind, he saw that the girl in the glass container seemed to blink, and a little light slowly gathered in her slowly focused pupils.

And then, her lips moved imperceptibly.

"Lucien."

For a moment, Lucien only felt as if all the sounds around him had turned into sharp buzzing, and the blood in his body went straight to his head.

Some researchers noticed his arrival and showed surprised expressions.

Researcher A: Professor Lucien? What brings you here?

Lucien: (in a cold and commanding tone) Open this.

Lucien pointed at the glass chamber calmly.

Researcher A: CORE is a crucial energy source for preventing dimensional destruction. She can’t leave this place.

Researcher B: Professor Lucien, you also agreed to this plan at the beginning...

Lucien: Move over.

Lucien interrupted the explanation and walked straight towards the nearby control panel. The researchers immediately stepped forward to stop him—

Researcher B: Professor-

Sharp ice spikes shot up from the ground. Crimson blood splattered in the air and then slowly trickled down the frosty ice spikes.

After half a second of dead silence, screams suddenly erupted.

Next Part-> [Here]

[shychick-52]

Just a heads up to all those following my StF story The Master Wand- there's only three-four chapters left (8, 9, and 10, plus an epilogue); I'm working on chapter 8 right now.

And I'm apologizing in advance... but *MAJOR SPOILER ALERT* somebody will die in chapter 9. 👀

Thank you so, so much to everyone who's supported my story!! When I first began writing it, I never imagined it would be so well received! It means so much!!

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Field Training Date

🍒 Warning: Detailed spoilers for a date, 拉练之约, which has not been released in EN 🍒

[ Released in CN: 28 September 2022 ]

[ 1 ]

From across the bus window, the afternoon sun leaves a gentle warmth on my cheek. The swaying carriage leaves me feeling drowsy.

A vibration in my pocket rouses me awake from the tiredness. With my eyes closed, I feel around for the “answer” button on my phone.

??: We didn’t divulge anything, did we? Does Captain Gavin know that you’re coming over to visit him? What exactly did you tell him...

The moment I pick up the call, Tang Chao’s blustering voice can be heard from the other end of the line.

MC: I didn’t divulge anything, but it’d be difficult for Gavin not to know if you continued to announce my plans this loudly.

Tang Chao: Sigh. Why didn’t you tell him that you’re coming over?

MC: Your field training is in such a faraway place this time. I didn’t want him to pick me up from such a long distance.

Tang Chao: What a grand display of romance. When you reach the entrance later, just tell them who you are.

The person at the other end of the line suddenly lowers his volume before  hanging up quickly in a guilty manner.

I watch as the scene before me gradually unfolds. The thought of being able to see Gavin soon puts me in a wonderful mood.

As the STF has been conducting field training in a remote city, it’s been almost two months since I last saw Gavin.

With great difficulty, I’ve made it to the only resting day of this two-month long field training. However, the STF regulations prohibit members of the squad from leaving, and only allows family members to visit.

Gavin couldn’t bear for me to take a plane to the city, followed by a five-hour intercity bus ride and a walk up the mountain on foot. As such, he rejected my request to visit him.

But to me, the length of the journey didn’t matter at all. Being able to see him was most important. Which is why I secretly asked Tang Chao for the location of the base.

MC: I hope my “unsolicited visit” wouldn’t bring Gavin any trouble...

After dragging my huge suitcase with much difficulty, I finally reach the final flight of steps of the mountaintop.

In front of the awe-inspiring entrance field training base, I notify the sentry about who I am and am guided to the dormitory building.

The simple dormitory building is submerged quietly in a patch of gold. Looking up, I squint against the sunlight and am stunned in place.

On the balcony of a certain dormitory on the third floor, a familiar figure is currently stretching his arms.

I smile, taking out my phone and planning to send him a text to toy with him. However, the screen shows me that Gavin had sent me a text three minutes ago.

Gavin (text): What are you doing now?

I tilt my head to the side, giving it some thought. Then, I key in some words.

MC (text): I’m admiring a handsome guy as he stretches~

The figure upstairs stiffens in his movements. In the next second, his gaze lands on me accurately.

Gavin: MC, what are you doing here?

[ 2 ]

MC: Why did you lose so much weight?

Gavin and I are sitting next to each other on a simple bed in the dormitory. My gaze sweeps over him, and I find myself pinching him on the arm.

MC: You’ve become tan and your hair has grown longer too. Wait. Why do you have so many bruises?

A resigned and soft chuckle drifts to my ears, and a powerful pair of arms grip my restless hands tightly before bringing me into his arms.

Gavin: That’s what field training is like. I’d lose weight, get a tan, and there aren’t places to get a haircut. 

Gavin: But that’s enough about me. Why’d you come over without saying anything?

MC: I missed you…

I bury my face in his chest and give him a nuzzle. The familiar scent makes me feel at ease.

MC: After all, it’s almost two months since we last saw each other. Since it’s a rare opportunity to visit you, of course I had to seize it. Which is why I used some clever tactics to obtain the address of this location.

Gavin: It was Tang Chao, wasn’t it?

MC: ...how’d you guess that quickly?

A hint of a smile surfaces on his lips. He lifts his hand, brushing strands of hair behind my ear.

Gavin: He loves to meddle in other people’s business. Also, he volunteered to do some tasks today, which was suspicious. He probably wanted to redeem himself.

MC: Will he be able to escape punishment?

Gavin: Nope.

Gavin shakes his head, his gaze resolute.

Gavin: Once he returns, he’ll get his punishment.

MC: Pfft.

I quickly stand up straight, acting as though I’m ready to accept punishment from a superior.

MC: Captain Gavin should punish me too. Otherwise, I won’t be upholding justice. It was because of my longing for Captain Gavin that I asked Squadmate Tang Chao for urgent assistance. He was simply helping a citizen of Loveland City, so the “main perpetrator” was me.

Seeing that I’m pretending to be solemn, Gavin blinks while contemplating for a moment.

Gavin: In that case, your punishment is to drink less coffee when working overtime next time.

MC: How’s that possible... I rely on it to boost my energy levels and continue living!

My shoulders droop as I whine. The lifts the corners of his lips slightly.

Gavin: If you feel tired, you could give me a call. No matter how late it is, I’ll pick up.

His sincere tone warms my heart. Just as I’m about to say something, I hear an ear-piercing alarm.

“Ding ding ding.”

Not knowing what’s happening, I watch as Gavin picks up his phone and turns off the alarm.

MC: You set an alarm for 3pm?

Gavin: This is my alarm for additional training.

My brows furrow in confusion.

Gavin: The new recruits are very strong. If I don’t do additional training, I won’t be able to face them if I can’t match up to them during training.

MC: Wait. Does this mean that you’re giving yourself additional training?

Gavin nods.

MC: But isn’t today the only day of rest you have in this two-month long field training?

He freezes for a moment. As though realising something, he averts his gaze.

MC: You aren’t resting on such a precious resting day?

Gavin: Cough. Well...

MC: That won’t do. Resting is the top priority of a resting day.

Gavin’s Adam’s apple bobs up and down a few times. In the end, the corners of his lips lift in resignation and he takes my hand.

Gavin: MC, I'll get proper rest. But I have one final set of this additional training. This set is the only core training for today. Core strength is very important - it trains my strength and endurance in combat. That way, I won’t get hurt easily. Just let me complete this set, okay?

He pinches my hand, blinking his clear eyes slowly. His sharp features actually seem a little pitiful.

His choice of words and logical reasoning leave me in a daze, and I release a sigh.

MC: Okay then. But once you’re done, I’ll help you to take a little break.

Gavin: A little break?

I arch my brows in a secretive manner.

MC: You’ll find out later.

[ 3 ]

MC: 385, 386...

A pair of strong and muscular legs are hooked onto the end of the bed, taut outlines appearing due to the strength of his abdominal muscles.

My gaze shifts up and down along with Gavin’s repeated crunches, and I’m unable to tear my eyes away for even a moment.

The person who is being watched keeps his scorching gaze focused on a certain spot in front of him, and his entire body seems to be filled with vitality.

His movements cause the bed frame to release regular creaking sounds. Even though he has done over three hundred consecutive crunches, he’s able to maintain a regular rhythm.

Although he doesn’t say a word, his breathing, which gradually grow heavier as he curls and relaxes, showcases the great difficulty of this exercise.

Gavin: [delicious noises]...

Sweat slowly drenches his t-shirt, causing it to stick to his skin. The muscles underneath the translucent fabric are faintly visible.

His muscles rise slightly with each exertion, and his veins quiver along with them.

But Gavin doesn’t have much of an expression. His thin lips part when he breathes out, droplets of sweat gliding down his flushed cheeks.

Every single droplet seems to pelt into the depths of my heart, tickling it and also making me feel an inexplicable dryness in my mouth.

MC: 398, 399, 400!!! Done!

I cheer while walking forward, grabbing a dry towel and wiping off his sweat.

MC: I thought the 400 crunches would be split into different sets. I didn’t expect you to finish all of them at one go. Are you very tired?

Gavin: I’m okay. The last set of training is usually the lightest.

MC: ...this is considered light?

He takes the water in my hand with a “mm”, and I detect a hint of pride in the slight arch of his eyebrows.

MC: Wait... the last set? What sets did you do before I came?

Gavin twists the water bottle while recollecting, a serious expression on his face while he responds without putting much thought into it. 

Gavin: Carried a 20kg load while running 6km, 2 hours of target shooting, 2 hours of kickboxing...

MC: ? You did so many sets of training? But it’s only 3pm... What time did you wake up?

Gavin: 6am.

MC: That’s before dawn.

I can’t help but purse my lips, feeling an ache surging in my heart.

MC: Didn’t you tell me that you only run and do boxing every day?

He freezes for a moment, then scratches his head with slight awkwardness.

Gavin: Fundamentally speaking... it’s true that I run and do boxing.

I release a sigh, deciding not to say anything more to this “terrible” person. I turn around and open my suitcase.

Gavin: These are...

MC: A neck and shoulder massager, pillows, patches for pain relief, snacks, hair-cutting scissors...

Gavin is stunned in place as he watches me retrieve various objects from my suitcase.

Gavin: Did you prepare all of these?

Grabbing two pillows, I place them on the simple bed, trying my best to find the most suitable angle.

MC: Yup. Before coming here, I already knew that you were having a very tough time. Eli told me that the living and eating conditions are harsher during field training, and that there aren’t places for you guys to get a haircut during this period of time.

Gavin: ...

Gavin: That rascal Eli betrayed me as well?

His frown of annoyance is pretty comical to me.

MC: Captain Gavin, you can deal with them next time. For now, please hand me the water basin and water bottle.

Gavin: Why do you need the water basin and water bottle?

I pat the “recliner” that I had constructed on the simple bed, holding his shoulder while inviting him to sit down.

MC: Because I’m going to be your hairstylist today~

[ 4 ]

Gavin: You’re going to cut my hair?

Gavin’s eyes widen slightly, revealing a rare hint of surprise.

MC: There’s nothing to worry about.

I drape the cape that I had prepared beforehand over him.

MC: I did lots of homework before coming here! Aside from learning how to cut hair, I also researched on massage techniques and how to accelerate the metabolism of lactic acid to alleviate soreness in your body.

I say this while rubbing his shoulders. He shirks his neck stiffly before gradually relaxing.

Gavin: MC, there’s no need to trouble yourself. We should take a break together...

MC: Don’t move! If you keep struggling, I’ll have a reasonable suspicion that you doubt my skills.

Gavin: Of course not.

MC: In that case, listen to my commands and sit down obediently!

Gavin: ...as you command.

He cooperates, tilting his head upwards as he lies on the edge of the bed. Sunlight enters the room, softening the sharp lines of his chin.

MC: I’ll begin now~

I cup some water in my hands, damping his hair gently.

His soft hair floats in the water basin, matching the pair of sparkling eyes which are staring at me, causing my heart to become incomparably soft.

I pour shampoo onto my palm. After lathering it into foam, I rub and massage circles into his hair gently.

Gavin seems to be feeling comfortable as he closes his eyes. Seeing him like this makes me feel playful, and I clear my throat.

MC: Mister, if you’re satisfied with my service, you could choose to sign up for a membership card.

Gavin is stunned momentarily. Then, the corners of his lips curl upwards.

Gavin: There's no need for that.

MC: Huh? Does this feel uncomfortable?

Gavin: Nope, it’s really comfortable. It’s just that I can’t bear to let you serve me all the time, so forget about it.

There’s an obvious sincerity in his pretence of being polite. At this moment, I feel encouraged and satisfied, and wash his hair even more meticulously.

That pair of bright eyes continue to watch me, causing my cheeks to heat up. I wipe my hands before covering his eyes with my palm.

MC: Just enjoy it!

He chuckles mischievously before complying, hugging his arms and enjoying the experience.

The air gradually becomes quiet. Gavin’s breathing turns regular, and he seems to be asleep.

This person always seems to have no concept of tiredness when he's with me. But he’s definitely very tired...

With this thought in mind, my actions turn gentler. I find myself holding my breath, afraid that I’d disturb his rare time of relaxation.

After a moment, I carefully wipe his hair with a dry towel, then prop his neck up with a pillow before trimming his hair.

Even though I took a few classes earnestly, it still takes up quite a lot of energy and focus to cut Gavin’s hair.

By the time I’m done cutting his hair, an hour has gone by. I release a huge breath. Just as I’m about to examine the results, I notice that lots of stray hairs have fallen into his collar.

I pick up a small brush, prepared to clear them out. But when I happen to look down his collar, I noice a huge patch of red near his heart.

I’m taken aback for a moment. My brows furrow instinctively as I take a closer look, realising that those red patches are sunburnt skin, and there are several bruises beside them.

MC: ...

There’s a slight stinging sensation in my nose. I reach out, wanting to touch that startling patch of skin. However, the person in front of me suddenly stirs.

Lifting my head, I see that Gavin is staring at me, bleary-eyed.

Gavin: What’s wrong?

MC: Tell me the truth. Are you hiding anything from me?

His bleary eyes blink twice, and he seems to have absolutely no idea what I’m talking about.

MC: Do you remember what you always said when we talked over the phone?

Gavin: That I missed you a lot?

MC: [blushing] ...not that!

I clear my throat before bringing the conversation back.

MC: Whenever we talked over the phone, you would only share trivial details. For instance, how a tiny dragonfly landed on your hat during training, how Tang Chao complained about not feeling full after eating five bowls of rice... Since you always shared these light-hearted things with me, I started to genuinely think that field training might not be that tough.

Gavin: It really isn’t tough.

He takes over the conversation. I cut to the chase, tugging on his collar and signalling with my eyes for him to look at the “proof” of him being riddled with injuries.

Gavin: ...these are actually okay. For the previous field training, we had to walk through a forest and handle our own food and shelter. If we weren’t able to find a cave to stay in during torrential rain, it was normal to spend the night in the mud.

The more I listen to his words, the more upset my expression becomes. Gavin quickly realises this, and he immediately stops.

Gavin: ...in short, I’m doing very well.

He brings me into his arms, pressing his head against my chest while acting slightly coy.

Gavin: I feel especially happy when training ends and I get to read your texts where you ask about my well-being and share details of your daily life.

My eyes land on his fluffy head, and my heart softens into mush.

MC: In that case, you shouldn’t be doing additional training on your only day of rest. You’re working hard enough on normal days...

Gavin lifts his head with a soft chuckle. Then, he shifts backwards and lies down on the bed before pulling me down to lie beside him.

Gavin: Do I look like I’m having a very tough time?

MC: Not really. I understand the nature of your work and know better than anyone else that Gavin is such a person. But I can’t bear to see you suffering any hardships. Haven’t you heard of the saying - that if you like someone, you’d find him very “pitiful” and can’t bear to see him suffer even the slightest hardship?

Gavin: I see.

His smile climbs into his eyes, and his serious gaze lands on my face.

Gavin: Reporting to the Commanding Officer - I won’t be as “pitiful” in the future.

MC: Hmph, that better be the case...

I purse my lips, pinching his cheeks unhappily.

MC: But despite what you said, you’ve always had strict standards for yourself. I’m afraid I can’t make you loosen up. I understand you very well, and I know that you have your own aspirations and requirements for yourself. So... there’s only one thing I can do.

Gavin: What is it? 

I clear my throat, meeting his eyes with a serious expression.

MC: Next time, I’ll always keep in mind the hardships you go through and your tiredness. Since Gavin doesn’t know how to care for himself, MC has no choice but to care for him!!

Gavin doesn’t respond. Volumes of affection surge in the depths of his eyes as he looks at me. In the next second, he reaches out and brings me into his arms.

The setting sun casts a lingering yellowish warmth over us, as though wanting this warmth to pause here forever.

Gavin: The things you said have made me forget all of the hardships. All that’s left is happiness. 

MC: I never knew that my words were that miraculous?

I joke with a chuckle, and a resolute voice drifts into my ears.

Gavin: In order for the squad to remain cautious and not fall into deep sleep, the bed frames are very hard. But now that I’m hugging you, I actually find that this small bed is really comfortable. Thank you for coming here and giving me a day of rest. And thank you for caring about me on my behalf.

An uncontrollable smile dyes the corners of my lips. Feeling contented, I take a deep breath and fill the depths of my heart with Gavin’s scent.

It seems that the tiredness of my journey this morning is finally taking effect, and my eyelids grow heavy. But something occurs to me, and I poke him on the chest.

MC: Gavin, aren’t you going to look at yourself in the mirror to see how the haircut turned out?

Gavin: No need - I have a lot of faith in your skills.

Hearing this frank response, I feel even more contented as I nuzzle into his arms.

In my daze, I secretly agree with what Gavin said.

Even though this small bed is very hard and very tiny, it also seems very comfortable and very huge.

For a moment, I feel as if -

This is the entire world.

✧ Call l Moments

[captain-amadeus]

Sofia could ask the Protectors to beat someone up that's how safe she is with them.

[agentbeeswrites]

Just finished watching all 8 episodes of Paper Girls.

Is it worth watching? Yes. It's pretty enjoyable. The show is easier to follow than the comic book was. The acting is good, the writing is decent, music is great, special effects are mostly good. It deals with most of the same themes, except for the commercialism of Apple products that were ubiquitous in the books.

It is only 8 episodes and ends on a cliffhanger, so if that's a deal killer then maybe skip it. Or you could read the comic books and then watch the show. It makes the cliffhanger easier to handle. Maybe.

They did change enough that the events of next season are more of mystery than you might expect.

So much was changed that I can only begin to touch on it. Mostly, it was the sequence of events, but there was a whole thing with Larry that was made for the show, and the only characters that weren't significantly different were KJ and Mac. Their first trip to the future was changed to a slightly different year. They haven't gone way back in time yet, though the last episode ended in a time jump.

Erin was changed in a fundamental way and gets to angst about the ripples of that in her older self for a while.

Things that I liked:

Tiffany's future self has a very different story, but OG Tiff is still OG Tiff.

KJ found out some fundamental truths in a very different way that, IMO, was more fitting for a tv show and more satisfying, tbh. They're actually building up her relationship with Mac in a way the books didn't dedicate much time to.

I really liked the time that Mac and Erin spent together and grew their friendship. It showed another side to Mac and added depth to her character.

A different character got her period and had to figure out how to handle that. There's a hilarious scene where Mac nabs some tampons for her and they all wonder how they're used.

The music. It's clear that a huge chunk of their budget went to time-appropriate music, and I loved their selections. Great soundtrack.

The color palette. We still get to see the pinks, purples and blues that made the art of the books so memorable, though they're usually only present when some kind of timey-whimey thing is happening.

Things I didn't like:

Grand Father only shows up twice, I think. We don't get to see the multiple versions of him and how he explains/justifies what he's doing and why he's trying to preserve the timeline until the very end.

(Cutting here to hide spoilers. Don't read on if you want to remain relatively spoiler free.)

KJ taking a guy out early on and having to deal with the possibility that she killed someone for most of the show.

KJ punching Mac. Like girl, I know you're having a gay panic, but come on. Too far.

KJ not having her hockey stick with her for the whole thing. I guess the tradeoff is that we got to see her riding a motorcycle to save Mac.

Erin not having her bag with her the whole time. I know it wasn't really important, but it was one of those character details that shows how much they changed Erin.

Prioress practically being the Terminator. The way she tracked them and blended into each time as she tried to find the girls. I'm actually on the fence about this, but I'm leaning more to the "didn't like it" than neutral. She was the only one trying to track them. We only ever seen a team arrive once, and it was after a battle that they needed to clean up.

Everything with Larry. He's clearly a replacement for the old lady they encounter in the books, but the stuff with him took up significant time, while the old lady shows up in what? Two scenes? Maybe three? Narratively, I guess it makes sense as a way to introduce the idea of the STF Underground, but they never explain the war very well and that the "Underground" is just a few people in different times that were recruited to send messages through the paper (which does not seem to be a character unto itself like in the books) to the actual STF time travelers. Actually, that's a mechanic that doesn't exist in the show at all. For a show called "Paper Girls," this show has very few references to the paper.

It's a "Battle of the Ages," but that's never really touched on in the show. Eight episodes and it's only hinted at near the end. Come on!

Have you watched Paper Girls? What did you think of it?

[danwhobrowses]

My Highlights from ROH Supercard of Honor 2023

Well it's Wrestlemania weekend which means TK is back on his insane booking for ROH. 2 for 2 now he's brought about some absolutely banging cards.

I know there's also Rampage, SD and HOF tonight, but since none are PPVs I'm just gonna do this one today. Mania will be late though since I'll have to watch Night 1 and 2 back to back given how I have family plans on Sunday.

But without further ado, let's see the good stuff from ROH Supercard of Honor

Spoilers for the PPV of course

All the Zero Hour matches slapped

Big pluses for Cobb as well; Omega, Moose and Williams matches on the trot takes monster stamina

NIGEL MCGUINNESS! Back on Commentary is nice but I'm sure everyone hopes he can return to the ring, I know some want him in BCC

Mack vs Takeshita didn't disappoint either, love both of these guys and they were just back and forth

Caprice and Ian vibing with Willow's theme

Sterling giving Slim J a spare shirt after ripping his in the entrance

Stu and Slim J are still very underrated, they're both an explosive feral style of wrestler

Ah so the Righteous aren't going to WWE after all, Righteous vs Dark Order might be an interesting feud

The absolute MADMAN TK is to not only book Vikingo vs Komander but to have it open the main show

An apt comment given how I'm gonna watch HOF after but seeing Vikingo is like watching Rey Mysterio's early days

And I absolutely love that Second Rope In-and-out Phoenix Splash

Komander literally ran the entire ring rope length to swanton onto Vikingo out the ring

Yeah give me Vikingo vs AR Fox, (give me Vikingo/AR Fox against anyone really), Blake and Metalik are great too

Surprised the Embassy retained too, given all we've heard about Cage's contract running out it seemed like he'd drop

Athena may be a nasty violent heel but the amount of fun she's having is great to see, she is thriving in this role

The finish was smart too, Athena using the ref to obstruct the Magical Splash/450 and then hit the mid-rope O-Face

Samoa Joe's STF looks painful as hell

Another surprise retaining as well, shame Briscoe couldn't win though

Garcia's been having a pretty good month ngl, matches vs Brody King, Adam Cole and now Tanahashi, definitely been on the up

'You're a wrestler' chants to put Garcia off too, that story ain't over

Evoking Nakamura as well!

Garcia did a stunner to Tana's injured leg, things you don't see too often

New ROH tag belts look neat, same style as the new world title

Doomsday Device from outside the ring was meaty, the proximity to the steps has been making me nervous all show though

Ladder Sandwich as well

Top Flight's...I have no idea what to call it but they propelled each other up the ladder, then they caught a chair thrown at them!

Jose vs Alex finally getting to throw down

I saw that Destroyer coming and it was still INSANE

Glad to see Lucha Bros win, I still backed Aussie Open but not upset with this outcome

FTR are here too!

Moxley here with Yuta is interesting

I also have to give huge props for TK being able to work Shibata into matches which are both hyped and suited for his style. The OC match allowed him to take his time when he needed, and Pure Rules is perfect for his technical style

Shibata using the BCC's Hammer and Anvil

Heel Yoots is great too

Shibata is a wrestling champion again

AEW's Dynamite card is insane, plus Athena vs Miyu on ROH can slap

Claudio went back to the classical version of his theme music, I'll miss the old one but this does match the pompous and cocky energy the BCC are exuding

Eddie going at Claudio immediately, the story we've built wouldn't offer anything less

These two have really been clattering each other too

Having watched the video of their backstory, the Ricola counter/Uraken was still a great nearfall

Meaty gutwrench to the outside of the ring

Kicked out of the Gotch Neutralizer at One!

The finish was greatly heartbreaking, Kingston countering the Ricola with a rana, only to be scooped up and fall a single second short

Shibata making sure Claudio and Yuta didn't jump Eddie

Shibata feuding with the BCC is something I can get behind, Danielson, Claudio, Moxley, there are all dream matches

Eddie saying fuck and shit for a closing promo is very on brand XD

Conclusion

Another great show, it did struggle to match the opener but it got there eventually. No matches were bad and with ROH tapings now TK has been having a lot of fun bringing out the goods without having to worry about ratings. McGuinness back is a big get for ROH as is Shibata as Pure Champion.

Match of the Night: Reach for the Sky Ladder Match Best Attire: Tanahashi, there wasn't any super unique attire but Tana's look is always super stylish Best Performance: This is a tight one, but I'm giving it to Vikingo given how absolutely blockbuster and effortless he is Best Spot: Penta's Mexican Destroyer from Ladder Bridge to outside of the ring's Table Tower

[blogadrianaleite-blog]

HALLOWEEN

Entre a Vida Real e o CGI /

HALLOWEEN

Between Real Life and CGI

HALLOWEEN

Entre a Vida Real e o CGI

Vem aí a maior data para os aficionados por fantasia, ficção científica e o terror principalmente.

Atualmente estou me dedicando a uma saga chamada Anthony, Sem spoiler, apesar de ela ter somente 70 leitores e eu não postar nenhum capítulo desde abril.

Essas coisas acontecem e ninguém está me pagando pra ficar em casa ou viajar e me dedicar somente ao meu livro.

Sabendo dos meus valores e ciente que era a hora, aliás eu deveria ter feito isso há muito tempo, publiquei meus maiores contos, os mais lidos e elogiados pelos leitores do blog na Amazon.

Tenho consciência plena que, sem um alto investimento em publicidade, o alcance das minhas publicações é baixo. Ainda mais que, o tipo de livro que escrevo, pouco tem saída por aqui, nesse país de analfabetos funcionais, militontos com diploma superior e com leitura muito baixa.

Escrevo contos e histórias de terror e fantasia.

Estou bem longe dos queridinhos dos brasileiros.

Autoajuda

Fanfics de 50 tons de cinza…

Entretanto, acredito no meu talento e modo único de escrever. E essa postagem seria originalmente uma propagando dos meus e-books na amazon.

Foi quando veio a mente a seguinte questão, com os acontecimentos nas últimas semanas:

COMO VOU PROMOVER LIVROS DE TERROR, SUSPENSE E FANTASIA, EM MEIO A UMA GUERRA COM ATROCIDADES AO VIVO, NUM MUNDO ENLOUQUECIDO E PRESTES A RUIR PARA TODOS SEREM ESCRAVIZADOS PELA PELA NOVA ORDEM MUNDIAL?

Quem leria e gastaria o seu suado e cada vez mais escasso dinheiro, graças a mais um governo imposto pela globalização, em fantasmas, assassinatos, criaturas fantásticas, se no abrir da tela, ela encontra o que há de pior na humanidade.

Guerra

Bebês degolados

Senhoras octogenárias reféns assassinadas

Famílias queimadas vivas

Latrocínios  aos montes

Libertações dos mais perigosos traficantes pelo STF

Prisão de velhinhas que liam a bíblia na Capital e vendedor de algodão doce, associado ao terrorismo.

A vida do brasileiro é um eterno filme de terror.

O que meus livros teriam a acrescentar na vida do leitor?

Ora, o que todos bons livros têm:

Entretenimento

Sentimentos

Alivio após um dia cansativo e estressado

Qualquer boa história proporciona tudo isso, independente da vida que levamos.

Ler amplia vocabulários

Treina seu cérebro

Gera dopamina

Os meus mergulham o leitor num mundo onde ele é o ser onisciente que torce pelo personagem principal, a favor ou contra.

Pode comprar os meus livros sem medo.

Medo vai sentir durante e depois da leitura.

E você vai se sentir muito bem.

Pois você é o leitor.

Ficará na paz de ter livro um bom conto e saber que monstros e fantasmas ainda existem somente na imaginação de cada um.

Quanto aos humanos monstros, são apenas humanos ruins, esses existirão sempre, e com a tecnologia atual, cada vez mais vistos e testemunhados, mas deles, apenas podemos evitar, nos proteger.

Dos meus você poderá rir, julgar e odiar.

Bom Halloween

Boa Leitura!

Contos de terror, fantasia e suspense a venda na Amazon, quem assina o Kindle ler de graça!

HALLOWEEN

Between Real Life and CGI

The biggest date for fans of fantasy, science fiction and horror, especially, is coming.

I'm currently dedicating myself to a saga called Anthony, No spoilers, even though it only has 70 readers and I haven't posted any chapters since April.

These things happen and no one is paying me to stay at home or travel and dedicate myself solely to my book.

Knowing my values and aware that it was time, in fact I should have done this a long time ago, I published my greatest short stories, the most read and praised by blog readers on Amazon.

I am fully aware that, without a high investment in advertising, the reach of my publications is low. Even more so, the type of book I write is rarely published here, in this country of functionally illiterate people, militants with higher education degrees and very poor reading skills.

I write short stories and horror and fantasy stories.

I'm very far from the Brazilians' favorites.

Self help

50 shades of gray fanfics…

However, I believe in my talent and unique way of writing. And this post was originally going to be a spread of my e-books on Amazon.

That's when the following question came to mind, with the events of the last few weeks:

HOW AM I GOING TO PROMOTE HORROR, SUSPENSE AND FANTASY BOOKS, IN THE MIDDLE OF A WAR WITH LIVE ATROCITIES, IN A WORLD GONE MAD AND ABOUT TO COLLEGE SO THAT EVERYONE CAN BE ENSLAVED BY THE NEW WORLD ORDER?

Who would read and spend their hard-earned and increasingly scarce money, thanks to yet another government imposed by globalization, on ghosts, murders, fantastic creatures, if when they open the screen, they find the worst in humanity.

War

Babies cut off

Octogenarian hostages murdered

Families burned alive

Robberies in droves

Releases of the most dangerous drug traffickers by the STF

Arrest of old ladies who read the Bible in the Capital and selling cotton candy, associated with terrorism.

Brazilian life is an eternal horror film.

What would my books have to add to the reader’s life?

Now, what all good books have:

Entertainment

Feelings

Relief after a tiring and stressed day

Any good story provides all of this, regardless of the life we lead.

Reading expands vocabulary

Trains your brain

Generates dopamine

Mine immerse the reader in a world where he is the omniscient being who roots for the main character, for or against.

You can buy my books without fear.

Fear you will feel during and after reading.

And you will feel great.

Because you are the reader.

You will be at peace with having a good story book and knowing that monsters and ghosts still only exist in each person's imagination.

As for human monsters, they are just bad humans, they will always exist, and with current technology, they are increasingly seen and witnessed, but we can only avoid them, protect ourselves.

At mine you can laugh, judge and hate.

Happy Halloween

Good reading!

For native English speakers, there's this story here, perfect to read on Halloween

[crimsonxe]

After watching the latest GMOD episode, while I hate the whole flooding of AH’s office. I do love having them in a space (STF) where you can see others in the background of their cams cause of how it’s set up. The immediate full-body reactions to things is great xD Love stuff like this (BK’s cam w/ Trevor across the way and both reacting xD) Spoiler cut just to save people not interested from having to load a picture.