Before reading this chapter, please check Chapter 9-08 first~ (read here)
What surprised me was, there weren't much articles regarding this fire on the internet. When I returned to work on the next day, besides Mao Ge paying close attention to the local news, there aren't much colleagues asking about this matter.
After lunch, I received Sariel's summoning message asking me to head to his office once I'm free.
The tasks on my hand have already reached an conclusion, so I headed straight over.
Thud thud thud--
Sariel: Come in.
I saw Sariel sitting upright before his desk as soon as I pushed the door open, slender fingers typing on the keyboard quickly. He raised his head, and stopped the movements of his hands.
Sariel: Take a seat first. I'm calling you today to arrange your upcoming tasks. Have you learnt about Pristine before?
You: Of course!
I think even to those who have no idea about the fashion industry will not be unfamiliar with Pristine at all.
If I were to say that haute couture is too distant from lives of an ordinary person, then Pristine will be part of our daily lives.
As the sub brand of Warson, it used to be unknown, disappearing within the various sub brands, it's only developed quickly after Sariel's arrival.
He spent a significant amount of time and energy on this brand, making the clothing to take care of both sense of fashion and daily usage, yet it doesn't affect its price positioning.
It dominated the market rapidly as soon as it's launched, from material to design and pricing, there are not a single bad comment on it, and Warson's stocks pricing have also soared.
It is considered a work that Sariel has spent all his heart into it.
Sariel: Originally, all of the designers have to participate and prepare the grand show for next spring/summer season, but now you have two options. One, continue to prepare for the grand show; Two, complete Pristine's design for the next year with me.
You: I can choose?
Sariel: In the fashion industry, whether you'll be succeeding in glory or to be knocked off the pedestal, it's enough to see it through a single show. Hence choices are always more important.
After he finished speaking, he moved his gaze out of the windows, as if he's waiting for my answer.
This period of time has became dreadfully long, there are so many things that I'm uncertain of that I wanted to ask. Regarding the reason behind this suggestion, regarding the direction of the brand's development, and regarding the kind of tasks I have to be in charge of.
Yet as soon as I chose to close my eyes to listen to my inner voice, this period of time became very short.
You: I wanted to be with you.
I noticed Sariel is also smiling at me as soon as I opened my eyes.
He handed a memo to me, there's an address written on it.
Sariel: You don't have to come to the office tomorrow morning, head straight to this place.
You: What do I do there?
Sariel: User research, you have to participate every segment this time. Also, to visit someone.
The second morning arrived very quickly. The address we agreed to meet up at is an old alley, Sariel led me through the long and narrow alleys, and stopped before a wooden door.
He knocked the door. The red paint on the door is already patchy, yet the bronze lock is polished bright.
???: Come on in, the door is open.
A gentle sound could be heard from the inside. Sariel used some strength over his hands, and the wooden door is indeed pushed open.
With a creaking sound, the scene behind the door is completely shown before my eyes.
Although the deep alleys by the entrance is seemingly small, but it's a completely different world inside, it's a well-kept courtyard. There's a miniature version of rockery and streams, with nothing missing in the scene.
There's a lady looking like she's in her 40s dressed in red sitting by the stone table, a thick blanket is covered over her leg, it seems like she's really afraid of cold.
By the time she saw us, a smile bloomed from her face, yet she didn't stand up to welcome us.
Red-clothed woman: Have a seat, Director Qi. It has been a while since we last met, this is?
Sariel: She's my student.
You: Hello, I am Y/N.
She nodded at me in acknowledgment, her aura is very elegant. This move reminded me of a familiar feeling, after taking a closer look at her, a thought flashed past my mind.
She is the model that has always been on shows for Sariel!
She was over 30 years old when she debuted, and there were quite some discussions over it back then. Sariel joined Warson afterwards, and she has also taken a series of modeling photos for Warson.
After that, I heard she had a traffic accident, her injury was a little serious, hence she quit modeling.
I have seen her on the magazine so many times, but she looked haggard compared to the past, hence I wasn't able to recognize her at the moment I entered the door.
Sariel: We are here today in hopes for you to be the still model for Pristine's new products in the upcoming year.
With polite superficial greetings, Sariel told his intentions of visit straightforwardly.
But the woman shook her head with almost zero time spared on hesitation.
Red-clothed woman: Thank you for your kind invitation. Although my body has recovered, but I'm no longer suitable to work as a model. Moreover, it's for such an important brand.
Sariel: You expressiveness is competent, and you are very familiar with the work flow, I can't find any reason that you are unsuitable for it.
The woman's smile exudes her desolateness, then opened the blanket covering her legs.
You: ......!
She's wearing a beige-colored boot cut pants, embroidered with flowers in red and green silk threads.
Yet the flowers are drooping lifelessly, anything under the left trouser leg is empty.
Red-clothed woman: This is the pants I showed at my first job, I purposely bought one as a keepsake. Now it's also reminding me, that I am no longer qualified to show its beauty anymore.
She lifted that bunch of fabric gently, fingertips gliding over softly, such a moment that shows how she valued the trousers have made her decline to exude an unspeakable bitterness.
She probably still really wanted to be a model, but the accident that can't turn back in time forced her into this situation. I can't help but to feel a little sad.
Sariel: I don't think so.
He extends an arm to the woman.
Sariel: Would you?
The woman looked a little surprised, and nodded in hesitation, placing that patch of trouser leg into his palm.
Sariel stood up from the stone stool, half-squatting on the floor, with focused expressions on his straightened back.
He did not use any needles, nor did he used any threads, only fingers gently rolling it.
A knot has gradually taken its shape, the red and green silk threads began to bloom on the beige fabric, spreading along the folds of the fabric bit by bit.
Just like a river, that finally gathers at the end of the stump.
And right above it, it blooms in another gorgeous flower.
The woman was stunned for a moment. She stared at the trouser leg that is rolled up. It's no longer empty, and the petal made sways in the breezes, looking with so much of vitality.
Red-clothed woman: It's so beautiful...
Sariel: I am not designing to show the beauty of clothing.
Sariel's side profile looked so calm yet solemn under the golden sunlight.
Sariel: You do not have to show it, yet it should be the one showing you.
Red-clothed woman: But my body shaped has changed significantly.
Sariel: You can choose a suitable size.
Red-clothed woman: I need to wear prosthesis for shootings.
Sariel: Why not?
Red-clothed woman: What if I have an unreasonable request? I wish to be able to open a slit at the sideline of the pants, and show the metal prosthesis. Telling everyone although I'm not complete, but I'm back.
The woman stated her doubts and concerns one by one, that until the end even her lips are already slightly trembling, and sounding hurried.
Yet Sariel has never uttered a single word of denial from the start till the end.
Her eyes have gotten teary.
Red-clothed woman: Thank you... Ever since the accident, there was not a single day I hoped for my return someday.
The scene before my eyes exudes an unspeakable beauty, perhaps it's the dazzling colors of the boot cut pant, perhaps it's the flower-like knot, or perhaps it's the woman's wavering expressions.
In this instant, brands, achievements, and the markets are suddenly becoming unimportant.
I suddenly understood a little better, each fashion designer looked like they are leading fashion and trends, but in actual fact, they are letting people to put on courage and freedom.
When I walked in the alley again, everything around me became surprisingly attractive.
Cleaned clothes that are being dried hangs above us, and a fresh scent of laundry could be smelled when walking past them. In the half-opened window, the clanging sounds of pots and pans have played into an symphony of the mortal life.
I spaced out as I looked around. Sariel pulled my elbow, and dodged a bicycle that is cycling towards me.
Sariel: You're usually chirpy and noisy, why are you not uttering a single word all of a sudden?
You: I'm thinking.
Sariel: What are you thinking about?
You: I originally wondered, we have so much data from our market research department, so why do we still have to do surveys in person here? But I understand a little now... The place that is the closest to people is where the roots of design is at. Correct?
I raised my head to coincidentally see Sariel's gaze moving away from my face, but I could still capture the acknowledgment and admiration from within.
Sariel: That makes some sense.
You: Don't worry, director, I'll definitely do this survey well!
Throughout the remaining half of the day, we have interviewed many residents. I gradually wrote more and more types of content on the notebook I've prepared for the survey.
From time to time we'll encounter enthusiastic elderlies inviting us for a meal, or to ask for our help to take care of children for a moment.
Sariel has always been starting out looking cold, showing his silent rejections through his posture. But I forcefully dragged him along with the excuse of "a survey isn't pure enough without experiencing life".
It's proven that even when naughty children are walking their puppies as they circled Sariel round and round, Sariel wouldn't show much of an expression of impatience either.
It's just that occasionally when they play on the main road, Sariel's expression will darken, and the child and puppy would turn completely stiff, then obediently walked back*.
*T/N: In case if you wondered why Sariel's expressions would darken, it's because it's dangerous to play in the main road.
You: Pfft... Sariel, I didn't expect you to be a naughty child vanquisher and a jinx for pets!
Sariel: Are you talking about yourself? Not only you're a troublemaker, you're also a clumsy bird.
You: Hmph, so you're my jinx then?
Sariel: Wrong, you are my jinx.
Although he's said so, but there was no aura of him that seemed stern, and it seems like there's a smile within his eyes. I immediately turned over, uncertain of why my heart is beating a little faster.
Suddenly, my hands felt light, the note book that I was holding has disappeared.
You: Huh?
A puppy is happily wagging its tail not far away, the book in its mouth looks so oddly familiar, and the cover is already stained with a dark patch of wetness.
You: Good puppy, come here quick.
I squatted down and extended an arm, wanting to coax the puppy over. But unexpectedly, the puppy seemed to have seen through my "scheme", and ran towards the opposite direction without looking back.
You: Hey, hurry and return that book to me!
A childish race of chase immediately begun in this intercrossing alley.
You: Wait up, don't run so fast!
I panted so much from running, and the puppy looks a little worn out too, and slowed down its steps. At the opening of the alley not far away, Sariel's silhouette appeared suddenly.
That puppy immediately braked, its body trembled, then placed the questionnaires down in fear and fled.
You: ......
I chased for so long, yet Sariel only needed to show himself to scare the puppy?
Right then, Sariel has already picked the note book up, and walked towards me.
Sariel: Your head is full of sweat from the chase now. Here.
You: Sariel, I seemed to have read from the books, that foxes are afraid of dogs...
Feel free to click on the above links to read the respective chapters!
Recording (no subs)
[Prologue]
The biting cold winds gushes towards my face with the sounds of the noisy rotor breaking into the air. What's more unbelievable is, right now, I'm in the cabin of a helicopter.
Looking down under my feet through the layers of white clouds, I can faintly see the tattered villages and wilderness.
The trees and houses that are still yet to be completely burnt, the sounds of cannon and gunshots from near and far seems like they are all telling the pains of this land. I've only seen these situations through dramas in the past, and for a moment it feels so unreal.
You: How wonderful, have we already entered Ni Dalong's* mental world? These are his memories... I've heard from the news, ever since it has became the main battlefield for two armed organizations, this area has never been in peace for more than two months.
*T/N: Osborn's friend from LONGDAY. Read Episode 03for more details.
Osborn tidied the weapon equipment on him, unsure if it's because he thought of his friend that is still at the brim of life and death, and a hard to be seen sternness can be seen on his face.
Ni Dalong is Osborn's friend from his bounty hunter guild. The guild received one of the armed organization's commission, so they sent Ni Dalong to the Dan City of Nation G to help that organization to complete a secret mission.
Yet during the trade of intel that happened today, he was heavily injured by the ambushing enemies and got into a coma. But this intel requires to be delivered urgently due to its importance.
In order to help him to complete the mission and extract that important information from the depths of his memories, we requested the help from one of the bounty hunter guild member's unique Talent, and got transported here.
Osborn originally didn't allow me to tag along, but after tests, Osborn's adaptability towards mental syncing and transport is slightly weaker than me, so there is a possibility for the transport to fail.
In order to ensure zero failures on the transport, I ended up convincing him.
You: Osborn, we'll leave as soon as we finish the mission, don't act rashly okay? Over here, it's meaningless to take revenge for Ni Dalong, you know that well, right?
Osborn: *chuckles* Why are you lacking so much of confident in me? I'm lazy to seek revenge for that fella, it's already good of me to not hit him by the time he wakes up.
Osborn said it so casually, as if it wasn't him who came all the way here with no hesitations on the night of his birthday after hearing his teammate being heavily injured to help him complete his mission.
You: Osborn, what should we do next?
Osborn: Ni Dalong was having a trade of intel in a warehouse at the outskirts of Dan City with the intel dealer at 4pm today. We have to rush our way there before 4pm to replay the scene back then, and retrieve this intel.
You: We have to arrive before 4pm? But I remembered you saying the location we were transported to is 300km away from the destination...
Osborn simply picked up a rifle, holding onto the opened side hatch of the helicopter, casually glancing the surroundings.
Osborn: No rush, it's 2pm now. According to the military helicopter's speed, we'll arrive after flying for another hour. By then, you should look for a safe spot to hide. As long as it's the time when Ni Dalong fainted from injury, where his memories reaches an end, we will automatically disengage from this world.
You: Are you going alone? Then carry an interphone with you, just in case if there's anything that you require my coordination...
Osborn kept his gaze back from the barren lands, turning around to look at me, then raising an arm to gently caress between my brows.
Osborn: Look at you, you're worrying again. If you keep frowning like this, you'll make me regret bringing you in here. So don't be too nervous, just treat this as a holographic shooting game.
Although we will not change the reality no matter what we do here, but if Osborn is heavily injured, it'd still affect his body.
Just when I was about to exhort him, before I could say anything, the sharp howling sounds suddenly sounded around us.
You: Eh? This is...
Osborn: Watch out!
Accompanied with a deafening sound, the plane shook vigorously! I immediately lost my balance, and fell heavily to the floor.
This is too scary! My mind became blank for an instant, then I understood right away-- Our plane might have been ambushed!
Osborn quickly closed the hatch and rushed towards me, half hugging me as we sat on the seats.
Osborn: Don't be scared. I'll have a look at the condition.
Osborn turned around and walked into the cockpit, I anxiously pricked up my ears as I looked into the, but I didn't hear any movements from the pilot.
You: What happened?
Osborn: Don't look anymore.
You: Is he already...
Osborn: Yeah. Over here, no matter if we rescue or kill people, the memory will not be altered, and it will not affect the reality. So don't be sad. The helicopter is a little damaged, and the enemy flight is still chasing after us. I'll think of a way, the most important thing right now is to get close to Dan City as close as possible.
I nodded, took a deep breath, allowing myself to focus and think of the current problem.
If we chose to jump off the helicopter, but can't manage to find a suitable transport that caused us to not arriving the warehouse in time, the mission will be a failure.
But if we stayed on the plane, and got heavily injured from the attack, we'll also leave the mental world automatically.
At this moment of jeopardy, what kind of choice should we make?
[Choice: At this moment of jeopardy, what kind of choice should we make?]
Calling: Glide for a while more, then jump off from the helicopter Listening: Retaliate with the enemy flight Heartthrob (1): Jump off from the helicopter immediately Heartthrob (2): Shake off of the enemy flight
[Choice: Do Nothing]
This mission can be considered as important as Ni Dalong's life, it's better to let Osborn to make the decision at times like this.
You: I'll follow your arrangements.
Osborn: Mm. You take a seat in the cabin, and put on the seatbelts well. We will definitely land properly, don't worry.
Right after, Osborn went into the cockpit, and started piloting the helicopter himself.
Not long after, the helicopter landed in a hidden location. I stayed in the helicopter, and he carried a gun as he headed to the mission location alone.
It's slightly past 4PM, a flare raised from the direction of the warehouse, that is the symbol of a successful mission that Osborn and I have agreed on.
I let out a sigh in relief. Right now, the reading of Ni Dalong's memory has also reached an end, my consciousness is slowly dispersing, leaving this world filled with artillery fire.
[Calling: Glide for a while more, then jump off from the helicopter]
Due to our concerns of having our landing spot being too far away from the destination, we put on our parachute backpack, glided with the plane for a while until we jump off the plane.
During the process of jumping, Osborn and my parachutes were separated by the strong winds.
Not long after, I landed in a forest on my own.
The forest is deep and quiet, with not even a single human in sight. The afternoon sun barbequed the grounds violently, making one to become a little irritated too.
I'm worried that I'll be lost, so I can only wait on the ground. However, after waiting for quite some time, I have not seen Osborn at all.
The map and compass are both with him, so it's hard for me to move an inch. Most importantly, what happens to the mission?
I'm feeling increasingly panicked, so I can only shout his name loudly--
[Call him]
[Outcome 1: Mutter gibberish]
I was about to call Osborn's name, but my tongue accidentally slipped.
I then yelled a few times unwilling to give up, but there are still nobody appearing.
You: Forget it, Osborn has probably went to complete the mission. Since we'll both automatically return to the real world when the time comes anyway...
Hence, I found a safe place and hid myself, quietly waiting until the memory reading reaches its end.
At this point of time, Osborn has probably completed the mission successfully, right?
Not long after, my body feels gradually lighter, the scene before my eyes are becoming blurry, and I know I'm about to leave this place...
[Outcome 2: Call him by his name in Chinese]
You: Osborn! Osborn are you there? Os--- Born---
What answers me are only the rustling sounds of the leaves.
I didn't give up, and continued to yell for a long time. Finally, I heard some unusual movements.
The car's driving sound is approaching, seems like there's a car driving towards here!
Not long after, that car appeared within my vision. The driver honked at me, seemingly greeting me.
I focused my sight and took a look, the one driving is no other than Osborn!
I waved at him in surprise. He slowly parked the car in front of me, lowered the car windows, and showed me a triumphant smile.
You: Osborn, you're finally here! This car is...?
Osborn: Let's talk about it after you hopped in.
Just when I sat on the passenger's seat, Osborn immediately started the car, and sped his way out of the forest.
Osborn: I landed somewhere south from your location, and landed into a village just nicely. I didn't manage to find you, so I thought of borrowing a car from the villagers first, so not only it's easier to find you, we can arrive the warehouse in time too.
You: So that's what happened! That's great.
The mission can be continued, so I let out a breath in relief. Yet after calming myself down, a sliver of doubt surfaced from my heart.
You: That's not right... How did you convince them to lend you the car? You don't seem to have anything valuable with you for mortgage, right?
Osborn: *chuckles* About that, you don't have to mind it.
His gazed out to the windows, and I suddenly caught onto something suspicious from his smile.
You: Osborn, you can't possibly have dome something bad, right?
Osborn: That doesn't count. This isn't even the real world.
He smirked without giving further comments, and quietly accelerated. This response enticed my suspicions even further.
You: Could you have possibly robbed the car? You- You can't possibly- the driver--
Osborn: The entire village was watching, how could that be possible?
You: Then does that mean, you've-- the whole village--?!
Osborn: Your imaginations are so rich, you must've watched too much movies, right?
You: Don't change the topic, how exactly did you get this car?
Osborn: ... Okay okay okay. I surrender. Well... this car actually belongs to the head of the village. Perhaps she had a good first impression of me? She added my contact method, then agreed to lend it to me.
He simply showed me his phone screen, in an instant, I sharply saw the profile picture of that person, turns out she's a young woman.
I suddenly came to realization, doesn't that mean Osborn has sold his sexual appeal?!
You: You surely do have quite a lot of ideas don't you. Are you sure that you've only left your contact details? Nothing else?
Osborn: What else can I leave? How about I buy you a drink, and you tell me everything in your mind?
You: ... I'm just worried that you are taken advantage of.
Osborn: Oh, is that so. Then once we get off the car later, from head to toe, I'll let you examine them all in detail.
The sudden embarrassment made me forgot to answer him. I lowered the window, letting the breeze to bring the warmth on my face away.
At last, Osborn and I arrived the warehouse on time, hiding in a dark corner as we witnessed the entire trade. As Ni Dalong's memory reading reaches an end, our consciousness dispersed, and left this world...
[Outcome 3: Call him 'husband' in Chinese]
Out of anxiousness, I ended up yelling the form of address that I am too embarrassed to use at usual times.
Just when I yelled once, a villager dressed in local attire walked from the other end of the forest.
Villager: Ah, are you looking for your man? Wearing a black top, camouflage pants, tall and handsome black-haired man?
I listened to him, and isn't that a description of Osborn?! The sudden surprise didn't allow me to correct him.
You: Eh? Have you seen him?
Villager: He's in our village, I'll bring you there.
You: That's great, thank you!
CG Village
As soon as I walked into the village, I saw Osborn from afar.
He's standing by a bright car, having a intense conversation with a young woman.
The woman's voice is very loud, before I have even gotten close to them, their conversation have already naturally flowed into my ears.
Woman: Are you a mercenary? This job is too dangerous, you're so handsome, shouldn't it be easy for you to seek a living? Our village is really in need of some young men. After you've completed this mission, how about coming back and look for us, what do you say?
Osborn: Sure.
Osborn gave that woman a hearty smile, and agreed straightforwardly.
Just when I was hoping to see how the story would develop, the villager that led me here have shouted loudly.
Villager: Hey! Young man! Your wife is here!
Everyone are looking towards me at the same time, I think my face must've been as red as a cooked crab right now.
You: No, you've misunderstood...
As soon as the woman by the car heard her villager's words, she glared at Osborn in disdain, and her face immediately drooped.
Woman: What? That's your wife? You already have a woman? Then I'm sorry, this village doesn't welcome you. Of course this car can't be lent to you either, find a way yourself!
The woman threw her arms up and left, leaving Osborn standing on the spot. He shrugged helplessly, turning around and walked towards me.
Osborn: Just a little more and I could borrow the car.
I could already see through the woman's plans since long ago. Although I knew Osborn is doing this in order to complete the mission, but I still don't feel quite comfortable about it.
You: Well is it my fault then? If I were to be a little later, who knew you might have been eaten clean?!
Osborn: How would it be that bad? I was just simply answering her.
Right then, the villager that showed me the way smiles bashfully as he walks towards us.
Villager: I'm sorry, it's all because of my chatty mouth. Our head of village has a bad temper, but she isn't a bad person. I heard from this young man, you two are borrowing a car to rush to somewhere? Actually I have a car at home too, I can lend it to you.
You: Really? Then thank you very much!
Villager: Haha, you're welcome. My house is right over there, follow me.
Under the villager's lead, we made a turn, and walked into a tattered farmhouse.
There's a colorful tractor parked in the middle of the courtyard, the villager smiled bashfully as he pointed towards it.
Villager: Don't see it looking stupid, but it's still pretty fast when it runs! I even filled the petrol yesterday!
Osborn and I stunned. After a moment, Osborn frowned with a troubled look, but I have almost burst out in laughter.
Without giving a chance for Osborn to refute, I replied to the villager right away.
You: This car is pretty good, thank you! A certain someone has to move faster, otherwise we won't make it in time!
Osborn: Alright then. You'll learn about how it feels to have a ride in a 100km/h tractor.
Osborn extends his long leg, and boarded the driver's seat high up. I followed suit, then waved at the villager as I bid farewell. After a bunch of choking smokes, the tractor trembled and started.
We slowly drove on the soil path in the village, the heavy car lets out a loud noise, leaving two thick traces as the birds along the way flies away.
Osborn was originally sitting properly when he wasn't familiar with the operations, but he seems to be getting into a better condition, that he is now driving the tractor with an aura as if he's looking at all beings like a higher being.
Even so, the tractor's speed has not increased for a single bit. I purposely raised an arm and shielded above my eyes, dragging my tone of speech.
You: How odd, where's the 100km/h tractor? Is there even 10km/h now?
Osborn: Ahem ahem... Well I'm trying to get used to it now ain't I?
I watched him crossing his knees as he turns the giant steering wheel, and I finally can't help myself but to burst out in laughter.
Osborn: Yo, finally not angry anymore?
You: I wasn't even angry to begin with, I was even thinking of praising that you have so many ideas.
Osborn: What are you talking about?
A large hand scratched under my chin when I was defenseless.
Osborn: If I were to had more ideas, then why would I bear to let our Xiao the Fifth* feeling this wronged?
*T/N: Osborn's new nickname to MC as his 'fifth pet' along with his other puppies and kitten. Refer Chapter 9-05 of main story.
I pulled his hand away, pretending to show disdain, but the jealousy in my heart have also fermented into a long-lasting sweetness from his gentle touch.
At last, Osborn and I arrived the warehouse on time, hiding in a dark corner as we witnessed the entire trade. As Ni Dalong's memory reading reaches an end, our consciousness dispersed, and left this world...
[Listening: Retaliate with the enemy flight]
You: From the judgment of the sounds, it doesn't sound like there are many enemy planes... is there a possibility for us to fight against them?
Osborn: Mm, there's just one. Put on your seatbelts, it'll be getting a little exciting next.
Osborn looked eager, and entered the cockpit after waving at me.
Just when I took my seat and fastened my seatbelts, the helicopter suddenly inclined towards an angle, and began circling in the air!
The helicopter bumped violently, going high and low, wobbling left and right, and the bombing sounds are continuously heard.
The strong sense of weightlessness ravages in my body, that I felt so uncomfortable that I almost couldn't raise my head, only to bite on my lips, praying for Osborn to quickly bring down the enemy plane and stop everything.
Unsure how long has passed, the surrounding noise is getting quieter, the bumping of the helicopter has also weakened... We seem to have finally landed.
Yet the dizziness has yet to leave my body, just like a piece of paper being brutally crumpled, I can only maintain my posture of rolling myself up.
Osborn noticed me looking pale and walked towards me in concern, squatting before me.
[A voice clip will be played here]
Why are you holding your head without talking?
Raise your head up and let me have a look.
Oh goodness, even your eyes are red.
Hmm... Usually when kids are scared by cannons, they have to rub their ears a little bit.
*chuckles* Here. Come over, let me rub your ears, don't be afraid.
It's alright now, it's alright now. Hm?
Your ears are quite soft. I didn't even use any strength, and it's already this red.
Ah? What's wrong? Discomfort in the ears? You can't hear me well?
Hm... Perhaps I've landed too fast.
This is easy. Hold your nose, close your mouth, and pop your ears.
*chuckles* What image are you trying to take care when you're with me? Which look of yours have I never seen before?
Feeling better now?
*Osborn blows air into your ear*
*whispering* Can you hear me clearly now, airsick little dummy?
(MC hits Osborn)
Ouch, ouch. Alright alright, well aren't you all energetic now.
I just said you're energetic earlier, why are you leaning on my shoulder again? Feeling dizzy?
Hm... I'll let you lean on me. It was indeed a little bumpy, you've got to be considerate to this newbie too.
It's really my first time flying one, why would I lie to you?
It's all transportation like cars and ships, it's just integrated knowledge.
If there's a chance in the future, I'll let you pilot. The pilot will not be airsick.
Oh right, taking deep breaths can ease the nausea too.
Here, listen to my instructions, breathe out... breathe in... maintain the same duration between breathing in and out.
... Breathe in a little deeper.
Better now? Then relax your body, don't be so tensed up.
Alright, slowly straighten your body, much better now?
Alright, let's go out and take a breath of fresh air then. The smell of the helicopter diesel is indeed quite uncomfortable.
3, 2, 1, up.
Hey--
Your legs are weak? Then how about I carry you out?
*chuckles* I knew you're being coquettish.
(Osborn carries MC up)
But, there's no room for regrets now.
[Voice Clip Ends]
You: I'm still alright. There aren't much time left, you should hurry and get to the warehouse!
Osborn: No rush, we are already very close to the warehouse. This mission is a certain success, do you believe in me?
You: If I don't trust Big Brother Osborn, then who else can I trust?
After searching for a safe hiding spot for me, Osborn walked towards the warehouse, and faced the unknown danger on his own.
Not long after, a flare raised into the skies not far away, that is the symbol that Osborn and I have agreed on, representing that he has already received the intel.
[Heartthrob (1): Jump off from the helicopter immediately]
You: Osborn, there's something that I need you to answer me seriously. Although there are a lot of things that you know, but you probably have never piloted a helicopter, right?
Osborn: Indeed.
You: Then I think, we might as well as jump off from the plane...
Osborn: Parachuting? How courageous.
He took out the parachute bag from under the seats, then waved it at me as if he's making sure of my response. I stared at it and hesitated for a few seconds, then nodded vigorously.
After Osborn wearing the back straps for himself, he suddenly pulled me closer to him, and skillfully tied me together with him, reconfirming the buckles are tightly buckled.
Osborn: Is this fine?
You: Yeah.
Looking at boundless layers of clouds outside the hatch, I can't help but to start feeling nervous, with the buckle that connects me to Osborn being the only thing I can entrust.
But this connection have also let us stick to each other close, as his breathe passes through the top of my head. I can't help but to secretly raising my gaze to look at him, then noticed the distance is overly close, and quickly closed my eyes.
He took the chance to hold me tight, and brought me as we moved to the hatch, pressing my curious head that kept gazing outwards into his chest.
Osborn: Don't look down anymore, I'm here, so nothing bad will happen. I'll yell 3 2 1, and we'll jump together.
You: ... Okay.
Osborn: 3. 2. 1. Jump!
My body is so stiff that I almost can't move, but I still closed my eyes and leaped outwards with all my might.
The sounds of the winds are so loud that I can't hear a single thing.
The immense feelings of weightlessness seemed like it wanted to pull my soul out from my body, and in an instant I could feel myself almost incapable of breathing.
Only Osborn's warm body is the only connection I have left in this world. Right now, throbbing passed through our chests that are tightly sticking together, his voice seemed to have passed here from somewhere afar, separated by the sounds of the winds.
Osborn: Scream if you're afraid!
Even at times like this, he hasn't kept his carefree tone at all... I suddenly felt much more relieved, and hugged him tightly, yelling loudly.
You: Aaaaaaaahh--!!!
After a series of spinning in the air, my legs have finally stepped onto the firm grounds.
Osborn: You're so pale already. Regret jumping down with me now?
I returned to my senses, and the excitement in the aftermath of surviving a disaster has far exceeded my fears.
You: With Boss Osborn with me, I wouldn't regret it at all. I even gotten such a treasurable experience! But, where are we now?
Osborn opened the GPS map in his phone and swiped around a few times.
Osborn: We're in the capital from Nation G, there's still a bit more than 100km away from the destination. There's a train station over there. If we board the train to Dan City... Mm, very convenient. There's a railroad that passes by the warehouse we're heading to, if we can board the next departing train, we should probably manage to arrive on time.
You: That's great! Let's go.
I held Osborn's hand in excitement, ran towards the train station, and barged all the way to the platform.
In the the crowded platform, the bejeweled nobles and the shabby-looking poor people are mixed together, forming a strong contrast.
Surrounded by their servants, the nobles walked in and out of the expensive cabin for nobles.
We hid in a dark corner and observed, then we realized a problem -- Passengers have to show their identity card and ticket in order to board the train, and we have nothing on us.
You: What should we do...
Osborn: That's easy, just borrow them from someone else.
You: Huh?
I looked towards where Osborn's gazing intently at, a couple is standing in the noble cabin not far away.
The woman's top hat has a long peacock feather, wearing a lemonade color long dress, and the man is wearing a well-ironed black suit. Both of them are dressed in a very eye-catching noble outfit.
Looks like it's because the servant following her didn't lift the woman's hem well and allowed dust caught on the dress, the man kicked the servant to the grounds.
The two walked towards somewhere afar. Osborn turned his head around and signaled me to stay where I am, and followed behind the couple right after.
What is Osborn going to do? I curiously see him off, and my heart suddenly beat faster.
After a while, the noble man in black reappeared in my view, and walked straight towards me.
Yet by the time he's close, I've recognized the face that I can't be more familiar with... Why is Osborn wearing that noble man's clothes?!
Osborn: There's a good news and a bad news. The bad news is, they aren't carrying their identity card and tickets with them.
You: Huh?
Osborn: The good news is, our masquerade is about to begin. Here, look for somewhere and change it.
He stuffed a handbag to me. I took it over, and there's a set of yellow dress lying inside.
You: You took their clothes? How did you do that?
Osborn: While they weren't aware, with a hand dealing with a person, they got knocked out.
You: You...
Osborn: So, are you wearing it or not?
You: I'll wear it, I'll wear it!
Ten minutes later, Osborn held me, who's now donned in a lemonade yellow dress, as we slowly walked to the entrance of the train. The conductor didn't even bat an eye, and spoke mechanically.
Conductor: Please show your ticket and identity card.
I cleared my throat, lifted my chin up arrogantly, and shook the peacock feather on my top hat.
You: Oh? What do you mean? Have you not seen this lady disembarking from the train just now? Could you possibly think that I, someone with such nobility, to actually do things like fare evasion?
The conductor immediately looked at Osborn and my attires, suddenly recalled something, and immediately laughed.
Conductor: I'm sorry, lady, I must've been blind! I've indeed saw both of you disembarking. Please board the train.
The conductor invited us to board the train respectfully. After entering the train, I let out a long sigh, and I can't help but to feel happy.
Osborn: Pretty good acting skills right there.
You: Hahaha, it's just as you've thought. Thankfully our clothes are very eye-catching.
Osborn: Let's head to the dining car, there aren't much people there, it won't be easy to be recognized by acquaintances.
You: Okay.
We walked through the cabin, and walked towards the dining car.
Passing through the connecting of the car cabins, there are two servants walking towards us from the aisle.
Servant 1: Are Mr. Jones and the lady not back yet? There are two more minutes until the train departs!
Servant 2: There are people disembarked the train to search for them, let's look for them in the train!
Osborn's expressions became cold, and immediately pulled me into the washroom beside us.
You: ?!
Osborn: Shh, the Mr. Jones and lady they mentioned are probably the two unlucky ones that I knocked out earlier.
You: I see... Then what should we do now?
Osborn: I think it's pretty safe here, we won't be disturbed. Let's stay here for now.
I nodded, and looked around the surroundings. As expected of the noble cabin, this washroom is so richly ornamented, there's even a soothing incense being lit up.
The train slowly starts. I walked to the train windows, watching the sun hanging high above, burning the vast yet barren yellow wilderness.
You: We're now back to the afternoon of your birthday, correct?
Osborn: Yeah.
You: Then this means you've celebrated birthday twice isn't it! But it's a pity that we've been hitting people, stealing clothes, and even evaded train fares all the way here... We've not done a single good deed at all.
Osborn: I'm not even a good guy, why should I do good deeds, hm?
You: ... You're having quite the self awareness don't you.
I threw a glance at Osborn, but my line of vision have immediately been taken away by the slender figure.
Mr. Jone's black suit seems to have kept his ruthlessness into a velvet treasure box, with a sliver of alluring sexiness hiding under the graceful and leisure outlook.
As if he has noticed my gaze, Osborn's gaze have also lingered on me, with the smile gradually surfacing from his eyes.
Osborn: Hm, so this type of clothes are very suitable for you too.
Only then I realized the dress I'm wearing is an off-shoulder dress, that intriguing glance of his have made my cheeks to immediately boil.
You: Stop staring at me already. This dress is too eye-catching, and it's inconvenient to move around in this too. Since we've already boarded the train, might as well to take the opportunity to change it back.
Osborn: Sure. But where do you plan to change it? The servants are probably still outside.
I looked out the door in hesitation, then looked at Osborn, and finally made a decision.
You: ... Then you turn around!
Osborn: Roger.
After he has obediently turned around, I gently pulled the side zipper of the dress.
Just then, a weird click sounded somewhere.
I raised my head in shock, and noticed the handle of the bathroom is being turned... Is there someone trying to open the door from the outside?
You: ?!
As soon as the bathroom door is opened, Osborn quickly took off his blazer, and pounced towards me.
He opened his arms, and covered me with the broad suit! I can't be bothered with being embarrassed under shock, and I could only bur my face in Osborn's embrace without moving an inch.
The door is completely open, the conductor that was checking our tickets appeared outside the door, his expressions turned from apologetic, to surprise, then into great shock.
There's another servant standing right behind the conductor, he only threw a single glance towards us, then began yelling in a trembling voice after he covered his eyes.
Servant: Oh God!! This is... Mr. Jones, Mrs. Smith?! The two of you- The two of you are... Oh no, the two of you are siblings! Oh no, poor Mr. Smith!!
The servant's legs turned weak as he falls onto the floor. My brain went short circuit for a moment... What? Mrs. Smith?
So I'm not Mrs. Jones, but Mrs. Smith??
So in the eyes of the servant, his master's wide is hiding in the washroom with her brother, and with such an embarrassing look... no wonder he's devastated!
You: That's not it, actually...
Osborn didn't give me any time to explain at all, and quickly kicked the door close, and took something to keep the lock stuck.
Osborn: Alright, they can't come in anytime soon, wear your clothes properly first.
You: Okay...
I got so embarrassed that I dare not to lift my head up, carefully took the suit that wrapped me earlier from Osborn's hand, and covered myself well.
Osborn: What are you covering for? I've already seen whatever I should and shouldn't see.
You: Shut up! Turn around!
Osborn: Alright.
Osborn turned around again. After I've done changing, he have changed into his attire that is more convenient for battles.
The fiasco earlier made me fearful, that I kept checking the situation outside the door, and Osborn has already opened the map, carefully planning his next move.
Osborn: There's no way for us to stay here any longer, but we're already very close to our destination.
He raised his chin towards the window. I gazed over there to see the highway being parallel to the rail, with many cars speeding on it.
You: What do you mean?
Osborn: There's a long segment of this road being parallel to the railway, so that means, we can also get to somewhere nearby the warehouse by car. Let's be bad people until the end, might as well as borrowing another car.
Osborn took out his telescope, squinting his eyes as he observes the directions of the car movements, seemingly have begun searching for his prey.
You: Then are we going to... jump off the train?!
Osborn: Mhm, I'll lead you. You've just jumped off from few thousand meters above earlier, could you still be afraid of this?
It seems to make a lot of sense too? Looking at his clear eyes, I subconsciously nodded.
You: Oh right, guess it's also considered for me to have experienced hundreds of battles!
Osborn: But remember, you can only do things like this when you're with me... hey, wait.
He raised an arm and adjusted his telescope, the corners of his eyes turned into an intriguing curve.
Osborn: Mhm, I found an interesting target. Guess what is it?
I tiptoed to look outside, but I can't see a thing without telescope, so I can only guess.
You: Interesting target... It can't be our enemies, right?
Osborn: That's correct. It's the enemy's big truck, there are... two, four, six, eight... a total of eleven people.
You: This many?!
Osborn: That's why I'm needed.
He kept the telescope and threw me a leisure smile, as if the upcoming danger is just a new game level to him.
The hot suns lost its colors before his bright smile, I nervously looked at him, and he suddenly poked my forehead.
Osborn: Don't join in the fun, stay away from the windows, and squat by the door, the lower the better.
You: Ah, okay!
I quickly squatted at the corner of the walls, watching Osborn as he lowers the curtains, pulling out the pistol from his waist and reaches out of the window, I got so nervous that my heart felt like it's now stuck at my throat.
He lowers his body by the window, eye aligned with the sight, the finger pulling the trigger gradually tightening...
Bang!
The sudden loud bang made me subconsciously tremble, and immediately hugged my head.
Osborn: Ten.
Bang! Another sound sounded.
Osborn: Nine.
Before I have even returned to my senses from the scary sounds of gunshots, a series of even denser gunshots could be heard from outside the window! As expected, the enemies have quickly responded, and began to fight back!
The glass window immediately shattered, with the shiny shards scattering everywhere, Osborn turned sideways to dodge them. The loud sounds scared the passengers, and someone began to bang onto the washroom door loudly.
In an instant, sounds of gunshot, glass shatters, screams, the banging sounds from the doors have overlapped each other, playing into a high-pitched symphony.
After some time, the firepower seems to have weakened. Osborn caught onto the opportunity, and fired a few more shots outside the window.
Osborn: Eight. Seven.
The countdown of life claims sounded like the whispers of a demon. Osborn looked energetic under the skies with flying bullet cases, reminding me of the invulnerable Achilles that even the Gods had hard time fighting.
Everything played in slow-mo under my eyes, blurring the boundaries between reality and fiction, and messed up the time.
I'm unsure how long has passed.
Osborn: One. It's over.
You: But... didn't we have one more enemy left?
Osborn: Dummy, that's the driver. We still have to get someone to drive for us.
He came towards me, and extended an arm to me. The tall figure blocked the hot suns away, and gently covered me.
I held his hand, and just when I am trying to straighten my numb legs, he have instead bent down and carried me easily.
The moment where my legs are suddenly midair gave me a shock that I subconsciously cling onto his neck. Within the bodies that are closely together, there are two powerful hearts beating so much that they are almost breaking the boundaries and crash into each other.
The train window has already shattered by the bullets. He stepped onto the windowsill as he welcomed the fierce winds, carrying me and nimbly leaped out from the window!
After a short period of flying, Osborn placed me somewhere high up, using his body as a cushion, we have landed on the truck's trailer accurately.
After stabilizing his body, he arrived the front of the trailer, shattering the glass behind the cab, and aimed the muzzle to the trembling driver.
Osborn: Hey, bring us to the warehouse of the Dan City, and I'll let you off.
The driver raised an arm gesturing his surrender, and begged for mercy loudly out of fear.
Driver: Don't shoot! I'll go, I'll go! I was originally going there anyway!
Osborn: You guys are going to the warehouse too? Why?
Driver: We received an order, it says that there's an intel trade by the enemies over there, and we're going to massacre them!
After a deep thought, Osborn kept his gun, returned and sat by my side.
Osborn: This is coincidentally the group of people that have injured Ni Dalong. Looks like there won't be anyone interfering us anymore.
You: That's good to know...
I let out a long sigh in relief, and lied onto the trailer in exhaustion.
Looking at the clouds slowly moving backwards in the skies, the various experiences I had in this world resurfaced before me again.
The mismatched time and space, the extremely realistic experiences, and the various ridiculous things that we've done, are all lingering around my heart, not disappearing anytime soon.
You: Gosh, it feels like I've experienced so much.
Osborn: How are you getting even more tired than I do after being only a spectator throughout the day?
You: Mentally tired. Who told you to come up with such a nonsensical idea?! You scared me to death earlier alright!
Osborn: But you looked like you enjoyed it so much.
I can't deny at that time, only to glare at him who's smirking from above right now.
The road is curving before us, and the warehouse is faintly showing its outline at the end of the road.
Under this illusory world of warfare, our gazes met under this blue sky, and got our little moment of rest from each other's smiles.
At last, Osborn and I arrived the warehouse on time, hiding in a dark corner as we witnessed the entire trade. As Ni Dalong's memory reading reaches an end, our consciousness dispersed, and left this world...
[Heartthrob (2): Shake off the enemy flight]
The enemy is tailing us like an annoying mosquito, making irritating noises. I can't help but to let my tongue slip.
You: It'd be great if we can shake them off...
Osborn: Yeah, I think so too. Buckle up, it'll get a little exciting later.
Probably due to my trust in Osborn, I subconsciously nodded, returned to the cabin and took a seat.
Yet by the time his silhouette disappears into the cockpit, I suddenly returned to my senses, and started to feel a little anxious.
You: That's too reckless! I forgot to ask if Osborn has ever piloted a helicopter!
I could feel the helicopter accelerating as soon as this thought appeared in my head, dashing out disorderly!
You: --!!!!
I covered my mouth with all my might to keep myself from screaming.
After a while, the discomfort I felt is slowly disappearing, so I can't help but to lean towards the porthole to observe the situation.
A few missiles are howling as they flies towards us, and Osborn have cleverly dodged them all, there aren't much damages to the helicopter.
Then, the howling sounds are getting further and further, and the flight is gradually stabilizing. Looks like Osborn has really shook them off!
Who knows, this battle might not be as scary as I thought. In a trance, a new idea appeared in my mind...
A few minutes later, our helicopter landed on an empty lawn in the woods.
I walked straight to the guns and bulletproof vest at the corner of the cabin, and carried them in my hands.
Osborn: What's wrong?
You: I've changed my mind, I want to help you!
Osborn: Didn't you agree to look for a safe place to hide until I'm back earlier?
You: You taught me shooting in the shooting range for so long today, the knowledge can't go in vain, no?
Osborn blinked in confusion, then followed with him bursting in laughter.
Osborn: Oh you, are you treating this as a video game because there won't be casualties in this world?
You: This is what you call optimism! What a pity for me to have trusted you to pilot the helicopter just now... I'm so sad.
Osborn stroked his hair dumbfoundedly, putting up an expression of admitting defeat.
Osborn: Alright then, since I'll be covering for you anyway. Give me the bulletproof vest, I'll put it on for you.
A sliver of sweetness from being pampered surged from the bottom of my heart, I walked to him, and took off my jacket.
What lies under the jacket is a close-fitting green camisole. Osborn drooped his gaze, his gaze paused for a moment.
Osborn: This style suits you pretty well too.
You: Don't look anymore, if you aren't helping then go away!
I pretended to be angry and wanted to push him off, but he have instead held on my arm and pulled me closer to him. The suddenly enlarged deep gaze stunned me for a moment, then my vision darkens, and he has put on the bulletproof vest on me.
The surface of the bulletproof vest consists of many complicated hooks and loops, so he bent down and rustles them as he adjusts it for me. He's tying them seriously, yet my feelings have already turned into a ball of mess from his little joke earlier, so I can only act calm as I look towards the clouds in the skies.
You: ... Is it done yet?
Osborn: It's done. Try moving around, does it affect your moments?
You: It's still fine, but it's really heavy.
Osborn: You're still in time to regret it.
You: Whoever regrets it will be a puppy!
Osborn: Then let's go, Xiao the Fifth.
Osborn and I quickly armored ourselves and looked from the hillside. Looking out from this position, the empty streets around the warehouse at the foot of the mountain are completely in view.
Osborn: It's now 3.50PM sharp. The enemy has probably ambushed the warehouse. Before entering, there are a few things I have to tell you, so listen properly...
I've remembered every single word Osborn said afterwards.
Very quickly, we found the back entrance of the warehouse among the tall grasses that are almost half a person tall.
Osborn quietly pushed the door open, and entered the warehouse first. I nimbly followed behind him.
Different from my imaginations, the warehouse is extremely bright. Through the shattered glass windows, there's even a rooftop that is half bombed off, with bright sunlight deliberately pouring in.
We talked closely against the complicated storage racks, slowly walking into the depths. Very quickly, following Osborn's gaze, I noticed a few enemies hiding in the dark.
Osborn made a gesture to me. Combining with the words he told me outside the warehouse, I immediately understood, this meant "action".
I subconsciously held my breath, raising my pistol and aimed one of them.
On the next second, while they were still unaware of our presence, we attacked at the same time!
The bullets moved so quickly without a trace seen, I'm not even certain if I've hit the target, and could only pull the trigger continuously.
Osborn's firepower on the other hand is powerful, the series of densely-packed shootings caught the enemies off guard, and defeated quite a couple of people in an instant!
You: So impressive... There won't be any problem for us!
After a wave of attacks, there are no more moving enemies in sight. But I'm certain that the other ambushing enemies have noticed us, so what comes next will be the actual dangerous moment.
As expected, before we can even take a breather, the dense sounds of footsteps have began to gather towards us. In a hurry, we moved quickly and hid among a bunch of cluttered items.
After hiding well, Osborn lowers his head to examine the submachine gun in his hand. He frowned slightly, but there was no movements from him.
I looked around the surroundings, and gradually understood Osborn's troubles.
Osborn has a tall figure, so he can't be completely hidden among the clutter, and a matte glass is right behind the clutter, so it can faintly reflect silhouettes. There will definitely be movements when changing the cartridge, so it's easy for him to be found out by the enemy.
I followed his line of gaze, and I've indeed seen the bullet cartridge tied to his thigh.
In a split second, our thoughts synced. I hid under his broad silhouette, and pointed towards his leg.
His muscles are tense, the heat from his skin seeps through his clothes as they dye over my fingertips, but I can't think of anything else due to nervousness, quickly taking out the cartridge from his thigh, and gently slotted it into the barrel.
Osborn's frown soothed after barrel is refilled, and showed me a thumbs up.
Right after, he made another gesture, and I immediately recalled the meaning of this gesture.
Osborn: I'll be oppressing the enemy with firepower later, and you'll bend down and hide behind me, follow me closely.
I nodded. He raised his eyebrows and smiled, turned around and leaped out!
In that instant when he showed himself, he raised the gun and began shooting, the strong fires continuously flickered at the muzzle, brightening his calm yet sharp face.
The torrential sounds of guns made me so nervous that it's so difficult to breathe, yet I still followed behind him with no hesitations.
The golden flares extends everywhere from midair, weaving into a horrifying net, making each movement forward to become increasingly difficult.
But Osborn's silhouette is like a shelter of a rainstorm, it's haughtily magnificent that it's very reassuring.
The journey of a mere few steps felt like a lightyear, by the time we arrived the new rack, Osborn and I exchanged glances, noticing that our foreheads are already filled with sweat, as if we've experienced a rebirth.
The long rack is filled with boxes of cargos, completely blocking the line of vision from the outside. We are finally safe for the time being.
Osborn: They are probably still approaching. You watch the left side, I'll watch the right side.
You: Okay! Leave your back to me then!
I clenched onto the gun in my hand, sweat in my palm are all over the handle. I stared at the floor without relaxing for even a single moment-- If someone is approaching, there will definitely be shadows over there.
Subconsciously, my back is tightly sticking against Osborn's. His warmth carries the frequency of his breaths, seeping over like the waves, soothing my extremely nervous heart.
Osborn's like a quiet statue, facing his direction right now. My heart throbbed ever so slightly, he has really completely entrusted his back to me...
I quickly pulled myself together and focused again, staring forward without blinking with only a single thought in mind-- I can't disappoint Osborn's trust.
We're already at a point of no return, and each breath feels like it has been infinitely extended.
A black shadow suddenly flashed before the floor in front of me, are there enemies approaching? I quickly held my breath as I look closely to the sight, suppressing my trembling hands.
You: They are coming...!
At the same moment the enemy has appeared, I pulled the trigger with no hesitation. At the same time, Osborn have also fired a shot!
The enemies appeared in waves, I can't think of anything, only knowing to keep firing the shots continuously... I can't let them approach us.
After a dreaded period of shooting, the air has finally returned to its quietness. My ear buzzed, hands trembled, and I spent a lot of time to finally calm down.
Osborn and I have yet again knocked back the enemy's attack.
Just as what Osborn have expected, the enemies have used a tactic to surround us, and my coordination with Osborn have perfectly countered the attacks from different directions.
Thankfully I've came here with Osborn. This round, have I also protected him...?
Just then, a faint sound could be heard. Cling, clang, it sounded like it came from the outside of the rack.
While I was still stunned, Osborn have frowned, and looked extremely nervous!
Osborn: Go!!
He extended an arm and hooked my waist, with a never-before-seen strength, he carried me as he pounced to a side!
Bomb--
My ears can't hear anything anymore. At the next moment, as if I've been pushed off midair, the rampaging heatwave have blown us out.
The impact is so huge, but Osborn have never let go of his arm, only to hold me tightly within his embrace.
After a short flight, we landed on the floor and brought the dust up. He hugged me and rolled for quite a moment until we came to a stop, suppressing his pain as he pants.
Osborn: Are you okay?
You: I'm fine! How about you? Are you okay?!
Osborn: It's alright.
You: Wait, let me see if you're injured--
Before my voice died off, a series of even hurried gunshots sounded again, that I got so scared I rolled myself up!
Only then I've noticed Osborn and I have fell into the back of an abandoned metal rack. But this cover is too small compared to the rack, and it's too fragile...
The enemy is quickly pushing towards us, that they didn't even bother to hide the sounds of their footsteps anymore. The firepower is unprecedentedly strong, as if they wanted to directly destroy the cover.
The dense bullets have dented the metal rack so much that it crooked, the loud sounds within reach has made me so scared my heart felt like it's stuck on the throat. What should I do? What exactly should I do...?
I looked at Osborn helplessly, only to catch his particularly solemn side profile. He caught on the break in between the shots, extending a hand out and blindly fired a few shots, but only with little success.
Are our powers still too weak to go against so many people? Are we going to be stopped right here?
If the mission can't be completed, Osborn would be blaming himself so much, and how sad he will be...
I can't give up just like this, I've got to think quickly, there must be a way!
I opened my waist pouch and searched franticly, even though I have no idea what I'm looking for. Until I subconsciously touched something cold... a little mirror?
People in dire times can always have explosive creativity. I raised my head, and looked at the hot sun through the ceiling, and thought of a possibility!
You: Osborn! There's a chance!
I threw the mirror out highly.
The mirror flies towards the skies, reflecting the blinding sunlight in the skies, and flashed to the opposite side!
Osborn immediately caught onto the opportunity, stood up, facing the splashes of sands and bullets, and calmly fired a few headshots!
Hearing the weakening firepower over the other side, I've also immediately stood up and continue shooting to the opposition.
Unsure how long the fierce shootings have lasted, the warehouse has finally became completely quiet.
Osborn let out a long breath in relief, the shining beads of sweat flowed down along the outlines of his side profile, his chest raises and lowers along his continuous pants.
His silhouette is exposed to the hot suns so much that it's about to melt, as if he'll collapse at any moment, yet he also looks indestructible. After a while, he leaned against the metal rack in exhaustion, and slowly slide down and sat on the floor.
He then smiled and extends an arm to me. I watched that arm that is full of wounds, wanting to high-five with him as casually as him, but my nose hopelessly became sore.
You: You...
The deterrence from blood and gunfire, and the fear and hopelessness felt when death was so close... these feelings only exploded altogether at this moment.
I can't hold back from pouncing towards him, and hugged Osborn tightly.
You: Osborn! It was so scary just now... *sobbing sounds*
Osborn: It's alright now, no need to be afraid. You did well just now.
His palm falls on my head, then gently supporting my back, as if he's trying to wipe off the horrifying scenes from the deepest parts of my memories.
I hugged his scorching body, and I subconsciously tightened my arms. His heartbeat is just by my ear, throbbing powerfully in my eardrums. My heart have also returned to its original peace along with this rhythm.
Osborn: Sss-- Be gentle.
Only then I recalled he was probably injured just now. Without caring about how embarrassing I looked, I quickly let go of him and examined him from top to bottom.
You: Where did you injure yourself?
Upon lowering my head, I immediately saw the trace of blood on his arm. His arm probably have fell onto the floor full of glass shards when he was holding me to dodge the grenade earlier, it's full of blood.
But his expressions seemed like he was indifferent, showing a great contrast with the colors of blood. Recalling that he has probably got used to injuries like this, I felt so hurt, that I subconsciously bit my lips.
You: I have gauze, I'll bandage it for you!
Osborn: It's alright, it'll be fine after we leave this place.
You: That won't do! You'll lose too much blood if you aren't bandaging it!
Osborn looked towards the door, the target we're waiting for has yet to appear. He hesitated for a moment, and brushed my nose lovingly.
A smirk with an unclear meaning surfaced from his lips. I glanced at him in suspicion, but still quickly cleaned his wounds and bandaged him properly with the gauze.
Osborn: That's all?
You: Huh?
Osborn: There's another spot that's injured too. Aren't you gonna help me out?
He pointed towards his waist, and only then I noticed, his bulletproof vest is punctured.
I carefully took off his bulletproof vest, pulling his shirt up, and I've indeed saw an even hideous wound...
You: !!!
Judging from the shape, this is probably a graze from the bullet. The wound has coagulated into a dark color, but the pain seemed to have drilled into my heart, that I feel pained and scared.
Yet what exposes along with the wound, is his tight, narrow waist and the big patch of honey-colored skin.
The bulges of eight-pack are beautiful, the dents are extending downwards, and I suddenly didn't know where to look.
Osborn: Do you like it that much?
You: No way!
I quickly chased the inappropriate thoughts of mine out of my head, and refocused on Osborn's wound.
Even though I knew Osborn's wound will not be brought back to reality, but I still couldn't calm myself down upon seeing the startling injury. I opened the gauze, trying to think of how to bandage him.
Just when I was about to begin bandaging, I noticed Osborn's metal necklace is falling right over the part I'm about to bandage. I picked up that necklace, but he's holding the hem with no free hand, so we looked at each other.
Just when I was hesitating, he suddenly leaned closer, and bit the necklace in my hand.
In an instant, his breath lingered over my fingertips, his pupils reflected my stunned expressions.
But on the next second he straightened his body back, biting the necklace as he raised a brow at me. I quickly kept my gaze, lowered my head, then cleaned and bandaged his wound pretending nothing has happened.
I crossed the gauze from his back, wrapping it over his waist circle by circle, not making it too loose or too tight.
Osborn: This scene is rather familiar isn't it. Say, why do I always get into accidents in warehouses? This place is inauspicious.
I recalled our first encounter when we were young, it's also in a tattered warehouse just like this.
You: Well isn't today going pretty smoothly? It isn't inauspicious at all.
He chuckled, and I can immediately feel his abs retracting. His breath is combined with some smell of gunpowder, lingering in the narrow space between us, dangerous yet seductive.
My heart skipped a beat, and even my hand movements messed up too.
Osborn: Ss... Ouch. Have mercy, Dr. Y/N.
You: You'll only learn to be more careful next time if you remember pain. You didn't even let out a sound last time when you were injured in the warehouse, why do you now complain about pain now?
Osborn: Could it even be the same as last time? There's someone feeling bad for me now, so of course I'd be more squeamish.
The tease by my ear made my cheeks heat up, I tugged the gauze strongly, and tied a knot.
You: Hey, let's talk some sense here. Have I not felt bad for you back then?
Osborn: Yes, of course you did. I felt it.
A strand of my hair fell before my face, he extended an arm to place it behind my ear, fingertips subconsciously glides by the side of my neck, leaving a ticklish trace.
Osborn: From now on, all of my scars will only be shown to you, how's that?
I angrily glared at him.
You: Hmph, I don't wanna see them.
CG 2 ends
Just then, faint sounds of footsteps could be heard from outside the warehouse. We quickly stopped our conversation, and hid behind the rack.
A silhouette dressed in camouflage clothing entered the warehouse. Osborn looked at him from afar, a sliver of uneasiness flashed past his eyes.
I suppose that person is Ni Dalong.
Osborn looked like he really wanted to talk to him. But out of cautiousness, we didn't show ourselves.
The intel trade ended very quickly, Osborn and I both remembered that important military intel.
Right after, my body is gradually becoming lighter, the scene before my eyes have also became gradually blurry. The mission is complete, we are about to leave this space.
The sunset have finally climbed up the windows quietly, gently shrouding us who are now snuggling with each other, tinting the ending of this adventure with stunningly beautiful colors.
We held each other's hand tightly as we watched our silhouettes that are slowly disappearing, and lost our consciousness.
[Common Ending]
After leaving Ni Dalong's memory, because the mental world's time flows faster, and it has only been 15 minutes passed in the real world, so we have returned to the night of Osborn's birthday again.
After sending the intel to Ni Dalong's employer, it's already late. My body seemed to be a little unadjusted, and my head feels a little dizzy.
The unexpected thing was, I have slowly recovered on my way back, but Osborn have instead having his face flustered, looking completely unenergetic. I can't help but to feel worried, so I followed Osborn back to his house.
As soon as we arrived home, I immediately made him to lie down on the bed, then searched for a thermometer to measure his temperature. Turns out Osborn has caught a fever.
Osborn: Don't be nervous. Didn't the person with mental transport Talent said this before? This expends a lot of mental energy, and it has more side effects to those who have better physiques. I've not been having fever for so many years. It feels rather fresh.
I looked at Osborn who's now wrapped in a thick blanket with blurred eyes from above, coldly scoffed as I placed an iced bag onto his forehead.
You: Fresh? How could there be such a fool like you? Do you have fever medicine at home? I'll get it for you.
Osborn: I don't. For little sicknesses like this, us racers will not be taking medicine this easily.
You: It's not 'easily' now! Your forehead is boiling so much that I can fry an egg on it already.
Osborn: Is that so? Then do you want to eat one? I'll fry one for you.
You: I'm being serious! You...
Osborn probably forced himself to look energetic to not make me worry too. Just think of this made me sigh heavily, and toned myself down.
You: Can't you at least rely on me a little at times like this? I can buy medicine for you.
Osborn's hand poked out from the blanket, accurately hooking onto my finger. Because of the fever, his hand is more warm and dry than usual, circling around my palm in attempts to console me.
Osborn: I know. No need to buy medicine, medicines are not as effective as you do. But, I'm a little thirsty.
You: Okay! Wait for me.
I stood up and walked towards the kitchen, and his languid voice could be heard from afar, hiding his pleasure of being able to rely on someone.
Osborn: Plain water isn't delicious, I wanted to drink lemon water.
You: On it!
I opened the refrigerator, and found a row of neatly arranged fresh lemons on the door.
I cut a slice of lemon and soaked it in the water, then considering that it'd be inconvenient for him to drink while laying on the bed, I put a straw in the cup again.
Arriving the bed, I handed the cup to him. He slightly straightened his body, and very quickly finished drinking the entire cup of water.
Osborn: Ah, so comfortable.
You: Slow down in drinking, aren't you afraid of getting choked?
Osborn: Well isn't that because I'm feeling happy? I get to be under your care if I get sick, so I'm thinking, might as well get sick a few more times in the future...
You: Touch wood! Don't jinx yourself. I suppose you became dumb from falling sick.
I avoided his gaze in embarrassment.
You: Even if it isn't because of sickness, I can still take care of you too. You aren't a superman anyway... Whenever you have a need, just tell them all to me.
Osborn: Is that so? I thought, with the tacit we have in the battlefield, even if I don't say a thing, you'd know what I want too.
His eyes gleams under the moonlight, just like two puddles of clear lake waters, and what's reflected on those lake waters, are nothing else other than my very own silhouette.
I'm unable to avoid the obvious answer, and in a hurry, I placed my hands into my pockets.
You: Of- Of course I know.
I opened my hand, revealing the few shiny lemon candies in my palm.
You: Want some?
Osborn stared at the candies and stunned for a little, then extended his chin signaling me to feed him.
Osborn: Yeah.
I teared open the packaging, pinching that one tiny lemon candy and sent it to his mouth. The moment my hand left, my fingertip accidentally touched on his soft lips.
The candy left some sticky touch on my fingertips. I missed the sliver of sweet and sourness, so I sucked on my fingertips in a blur, then kept my hands back under his teasing gaze.
Right then, the ringtone sounded from the living room.
Osborn: Answer it for me.
You: I don't know the caller, is it alright?
Osborn: Do I still have any secrets kept from you? Hurry up.
I answered the phone on behalf of Osborn, and I got to know the hospitalized Ni Dalong has already woke up.
I can't wait to bring this good news to him.
Osborn: I knew this fella would be lucky enough to stay alive.
You: He even heard about you completing his mission for him, saying he wanted to thank you in person.
Osborn: Yeah, he should thank me, but he can't leave you out either.
You: Actually I'm really curious, are your missions all this dangerous...? Are you already so used to those situations that it feels like a norm to you?
Osborn: My taste with Ni Dalong are quite different, I would rarely accept commissions like this. He likes lucrative ones, and I... only pick those I'm interested in.
You: Only picking the ones you're interested in? Then what sort of missions that you are interested in?
Osborn: Whatever that piques my curiosity. I wanted to see the different types of people in the world, and the various types of life. It's something like that.
You: You are really different from everyone else.
Osborn: Is that so? Perhaps everyone are chasing after different things in this world. Oh right, do you still remember the time you said you were jealous over the buddies that are fighting alongside me?
You: Huh?
Osborn: You even said while feeling so wronged, that my comrades and I are like the people from the same world, and you are more like some sort of... intruder*. How's that, are you still feeling wronged now?
I was completely confused, and immediately recalled the incident that I screwed up because of jealousy, that I got so embarrassed I turned around.
My shoulder felt heavy, it's Osborn gently turning my shoulders back to him. In an instant, his expressions have already became solemn and focused, staring at me intently.
Osborn: Back then, I said "buddies that have fought alongside me", but afterwards I find it inaccurate. Most of the time, I've been fighting alone. It's not that there aren't anyone offered help, it's just that I'm not quite used to it. To move freely alone, and be responsible to only myself, is something that I've gotten used to since long ago.
Osborn rarely talks about himself, so I listened seriously, and I can't help myself but to recall each and every time I met him, feeling that he's just like the lone walker in the night, moving around without a trace.
You: But, I don't wish for you to be used to it...
I gently held his hand. His eyes are deep like the universe, passing through the quiet yet cold space, I seem to be able to reach his loneliness.
Osborn: Yeah. Today, you've entered my battlefield, and brought me a sense of reassurance that I have never experienced before.
Osborn's hand quietly slides down a little, circling my body, and with a slight tug, I'm now encircled within his embrace.
Osborn: It's you who allowed me to realize, that if I entrust my back to someone reliable, I can become even stronger for her. Y/N, from now on, I will share my all with you. There's no chance for you to regret it anymore.
As if it's a seal of his words, he tightened his arms a little more. I immediately recall the scenes of this embrace that has been protecting me in the battlefield, and subconsciously immerse myself within it as I closed my eyes.
His breath brushes past my neck, boiling just as much as his embrace. I seem to have also caught a low fever, as my consciousness lightly floated into the sea named Osborn, until all of my senses are filled with it.
You: Of course... being by your side, I will always be fearless.
I'm already prepared, to embark into each and every journey with him from now on.
Translations here are roughly done, there can be mistakes, so please take things with at least a grain of salt because there are many "byelingual" moments happening recently.
The motive of the 'translations' were only to provide a gist of what happens in the stories, they do not represent the actual or official translations, and I'm open to suggestions on better word choices too :)
Also in case if you've missed the memo, I don't have plans to work on fan translations as frequently as I do due to health and personal matters.
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