Second Lead Syndrome (1-187) | ✓

• 14 •

When an answer is accompanied by a silent response, Cecil knew it wasn't unnecessarily bad.

Most of the time.

It proved to be true, since after a long, uncomfortable minute of silence. Xue simply asked her to repeat her words again.

"What...what did you just say?"

Cecil proceeded to answer with the same words.

"I want you to be happy."

Another silence.

Alas, this time the silence didn't mean anything good.

Xue retreated slowly, taking his hand away from her neck, pointing his finger to the outside of the alleyway. "Scram."

"I...I can go?"

"Scram!"

Cecil jumped and almost sprinted out of the alleyway. She glanced back, still seeing Xue in the same spot as he put down his arm, his back facing Cecil.

[ Previous impression points : 30
Remaining impression points : 80
Your words have greatly affected protagonist "Xue". ]

Cecil ceased her movements and she glanced back again.

Xue was leaning against the wall, squeezing his nose bridge with his fingers.

Cecil looked down, a small smile lining her lips. Her steps were soft as she disappeared from the alley.

[ You have abused your reader powers and revealed too much to the protagonist. This is your first warning, you have two chances left. Upon abusing your reader knowledge for the third time, you will receive the original ending of Cecil Lan no matter the circumstances.
Ten points will be deducted as a penalty.
Remaining points : 60 points ]

"...AI500, why do you always inform me after I've done the deed?"

[ Once again, it was only implemented by the system after you told the protagonist "Xue" the spoilers. ]

"This is the second time, without any warning! Your system is incompetent! Rubbish system! A bullshit system!"

[ ... ]

[ This is an experimental program, you will encounter bugs along the way and it cannot be helped~ ]

"..."

Cecil closed the window in frustration.

***

A week passed by quietly, and before Cecil knew it, it was time for them to set off to the academy.

It was a tearful goodbye, most the tears were from the parents. Cecil's mother had left Cecil the dancing costume as a parting gift. Despite Cecil had ensuring her parents again and again that she would come to visit soon, they still reacted like she was leaving permanently.

There were two carriages, each of them capable of carrying four passengers. Kai was originally with Gom, however, he wouldn't miss the chance to see or talk to Cecil, thus, he sneaked his way to the other carriage.

The carriage rocked lightly, causing the four people in the carriage to sway along. The atmosphere between them was awkward, except for Hana, who doesn't even notice it.

The two young men fixed their eyes upon Cecil, one conflicted while the other was lovestruck.

Cecil could feel the stormy, grey eyes and the bright, yellow eyes on her, and only looked the other way.