imported>Sakuwu |
imported>Elaeagnifolia |
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| {{tab/start}} | | {{tab/start}} |
| {{tab/header|Story 1}}
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| '''Scene 1: Camp Site'''
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| After a five-hour ride, the tour buses park side-by-side next to a beautiful and open green field.
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| Our location for the company retreat has country vibes with green hills and misty mountains in the distance.
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| However, no one is in the mood to enjoy the scenery after getting off the bus...
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| Colleague A: Pukes...
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| Colleague B: Wheezes!
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| A bus full of people got car sick. People scramble to move their luggage away and retrieve stools so that the ill can sit and rest.
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| Kiki quickly sets down a folding chair for you.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Ugh...!
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| You hold your chest as you tried to hold off the urge to vomit. You can hear someone growling from the back.
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' I can't believe you! This is what happens when I put you in charge of the bus! Everyone got car sick!
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' Why were you even working on the bus? Do you think your partner will do nothing? Did you really think the others wouldn't follow suit?
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' The mountain roads are enough to make anyone sick! Staring at their laptops only made it worse!
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| Hearing that, you hold onto the tree, attempting to stand up in a hurry.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ... Celestine... That's not what happened...
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| Soon after leaving the firm, Artem received a call and immediately pulled out his laptop and began to work.
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| Everyone became tense upon seeing him enter work mode. Everyone ceased everything, afraid of making a noise that might disturb him.
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| It was too awkward to just watch him work, so you pulled out your laptop too, which started the chain reaction.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ... So... that's why everyone... Pukes!
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' Okay okay, stop talking!
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| Celestine quickly run over and sits you down. Then, she glares fiercely at Artem.
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' It's still your fault! If you didn't start, no one would've followed!
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' ... You're right.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I should have been more aware of my actions since they could affect the employees. I'm very sorry.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Then I am responsible too! I was the one that started the chain reaction...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' As an adult, I should make my own judgments and be able to take care of myself.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' So, Celestine, regarding today's incident, I also share 50%... Pukes!
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' ...
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| Perhaps it was the dramatic ending to your act that finally puts a smile on Celestine's face.
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' Forget it. Leaving a workaholic like you in charge of the entire bus was a bad decision. I am responsible too.
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| Celestine looks across the grass field at her car sick colleagues. Some had recovered and were walking about slowly.
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' How about this? I'll bring the others to a farm nearby to pick some fruits and vegetables.
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' MC is in pretty bad shape, so you stay here and take care of her.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' But...
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' You should rest. When you're ready, head over to the stream nearby. Maybe you can catch a fish for dinner!
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| Celestine laughs as she pats your back. Then, she leads a large group of your colleagues towards the farm.
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| Suddenly, you and Artem are alone.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Wait for me here.
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| Artem looks for something in the car for a while and returns with a cup of water.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Sniff this first.
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| Artem holds the freshly-cut ginger up to your nose. The spicy smell goes straight to your head.
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| The smell instantly clears your head and you feel much better.
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| As Artem hands you the cup, you can see the steam wafting from it. It smells faintly of vinegar.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I added some vinegar. It'll help with the car sickness.
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| You reach out to take the cup, but Artem holds onto it.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I'll hold it. Just drink.
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| With no energy to fight back, you slowly sip from the cup as Artem holds it.
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| The feeling of car sickness fades as the warm water with a little vinegar soothes your stomach.
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| {{tab/header|Story 2}} | |
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| '''Scene 1: Woods'''
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Are you sure you're okay? I can go fishing by myself.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I'm okay, I'm okay! I'm feeling much better! It'll be good for my body if I walk and get some fresh air!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Look, Artem! A chestnut!
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| You use two branches to form a chopstick to pick up the urchin-like burr.
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| You show Artem the crack in the shell, revealing two chestnuts within.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I always thought that chestnuts grew on trees like apples and peaches.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' It wasn't until I watched a video recently that I learned chestnuts have a furry shell.
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| While you are looking for other chestnuts, you spot various fruits on trees and vines in the distance.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Melons and dates!
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| You run excitedly over to the trees, jumping a couple of times in an attempt to reach the fruits. Frustrated, you finally gave up.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ... Why did it grow so tall...
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| A pair of hands reach over your head. Artem picks them with ease and places them in your fish basket, carrying it in your stead.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I didn't know you know so much about wild fruits. These are pretty rare ones.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I couldn't tell the difference until recently. I follow a video blogger that shares about rural food and life.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' The video blogger often posts about going into the mountains to pick wild vegetables, which he then turns into delicious food.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' You're interested in rural lifestyle?
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Yes. Especially when I'm exhausted from work.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Seeing the beautiful Arcadia-like places in the videos and the poetic way of living relaxes me.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I would even sometimes daydream about renting a place there if I can afford it. One with a garden and an ocean view.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' What about you? Have you ever considered changing your lifestyle?
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| You regret it almost immediately. Artem, who works even on vacation, probably doesn't get tired, much less than want to change his lifestyle.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I haven't thought about changing careers, if that's what you mean.
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| It's just as you thought...
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' But, I like to watch movies and take leisurely drives to relax.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Eh? You also feel the need to relax?
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| Oh crap... you accidentally said that out loud!
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' ... Looks like you have quite the misunderstanding about me.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I like my job, but that doesn't mean I don't get tired.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I do relax after having solved a big case, or if a case is particularly difficult and I can't find a headway.
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| Artem and you arrive at the stream and Artem finds a shaded spot under a tree.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Let's fish here.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Okay, then I'll wash the wild fruits!
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| You crouch beside Artem and place the fruit-filled fishing basket into the stream, planning to grab a small melon.
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| As you pick up a melon, you feel a tickling sensation on your fingertips. You flip your hand over...
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| And you see a black furry caterpillar, about as thick as your finger, crawling up your hand.
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| Seconds feel like minutes, or even an eternity, as your mind goes blank.
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| Huh? A scream? Yours? Probably... There's a distant sound that comes through the haze.
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| You cannot breathe or move. Petrified, you can only watch as the caterpillar inches its way up your arm.
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| Closer... Closer...
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| Finally, a hand appears and brushes the caterpillar off.
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| Then, he holds onto you tightly.
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| His embrace is strong yet gentle. The numbness slowly fades as you regain mobility big by big, starting from where he holds you.
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| The blood flow returns to your body. Your vision is clear once again.
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| It is only then that you realize that you are leaning heavily against Artem's chest.
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| While holding onto you, Artem squats by the stream, washing your arm.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' There. All clean.
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| He stares at you, his face mere inches away. A familiar woody scent burns into your nose.
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| You can hear a pounding heartbeat through the thin jacket. Yours? His?
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ...
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' ...
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| Clatter! The fishing rod Artem had left on the ground jerks upwards.
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| You also "jump" up from Artem's arms, jolting along with it.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' A... a bite!
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| You quickly try to pick up the fishing rod that he'd left on the ground earlier, but it slips within your grip.
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| The wet fishing rod is hard to grasp, and the fish on the line is fighting for its life. You can't hold one.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Calm down.
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| Artem grabs it, stabilizing the fishing rod that was shaking violently.
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| Artem allows the fish to splash around freely. As it slows down, Artem begins reeling it in.
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| As the huge fish is pulled from the water, the water splashes to form a small rainbow under the sun.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' You're amazing, Artem! Such a huge fish, with such ease!
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' You need to be calm when fishing. The action of lifting the rod and the timing of reeling it in is important.
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| While talking, Artem begins to reel in the fishing line.
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| Suddenly, the fish, as if realizing its imminent death, thrashes around wildly, slipping into the water.
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| The fishing rod bends deep towards the water and the line taut, as the fish fights for its life.
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| Calmly, Artem holds the rod firmly upright. You can clearly see the strong and well-defined muscles of his arms.
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| The fish finally tires itself out.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' There.
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| Artem removes the hook from the fish and places it in the basket.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' There are many factors to consider when fishing, including the breed of fish, water depth, lure type, and seasons.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I didn't know that there were so many things you have to pay attention to when it comes to fishing.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Sorry, this is probably a boring topic.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Not at all! I feel as if I've opened the door to a whole new world. It's interesting!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I'm just a little envious, watching from the sidelines...
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I can teach you in the future if you want.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Not today?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' You've had a rough morning on top of the initial car sickness. Rest for now.
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| Yeah, fate seems intent on keeping you on your feet at all times this fine morning...
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| You sigh as you feel the exhaustion spread throughout your body.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I guess I'll find a place to rest for a while...
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| You scan your surroundings and spot a clean and large rock, deep in the woods, that you could lean on.
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| You are suddenly pulled back just as you are about to head over.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Don't!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' What's wrong, Artem?
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| Artem loosens his grip on your wrist. He coughs lightly, ears bright red.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' ... I was just going to tell you not to stray too far away. if something were to happen, I'd be too far to help.
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| Recalling the incident just now, a chill runs down your spine. You nod as you sit down next to him.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' You're right!
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| {{tab/header|Story 3}}
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| '''Scene 1: Camp Site'''
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| Time passes as Artem fills the fish basket. You walk back to the camp with Artem, but there's no one in sight.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Celestine called and said they'll be back in about two hours. We're free to do as we please until then.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Then, why don't we start preparing the food? The fish has to be marinated for a while before grilling for it to taste good.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Since you were responsible for catching fish, I'll take care of the killing.
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| With how busy he is, Artem definitely doesn't know how to cook.
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| Even though the fish vendor kills and cleans the fish when you buy it, it shouldn't be all that hard, right?
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| So, you and Artem set the tables and begin preparing the food.
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| While Artem organizes the ingredients and cooking utensils, you search online on how to deal with the fish.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' It says to first knock the fish unconscious.
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| Smack!
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| You feel a sharp pain on your forehead the moment your pick up the fish.
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| With a strong whip of its tail, the huge 30-centimeter fish slaps you before flopping to the ground in an attempt to escape.
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| Artem looks at you in astonishment, probably because of the sheer loudness of the smack.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' How mean! You stop right there!
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| You push through the pain as you chase the fish. Thrashing everywhere, the slippery fish escapes your capture.
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| Seeing your struggle with the fish, Artem quickly walks over. The fish thrashes towards him.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Artem, watch out! That fish likes smacking people...
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| Before you can even finish, Artem knocks the fish out with a clean hit from the hilt of the knife.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Artem... you know how to kill a fish?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Don't you...?
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| Smiling awkwardly, you try to change the topic, but you notice something off about the ingredients table...
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| On the right is a rack with five knives of various sizes. There is even a knife-sharpener and a pair of scissors.
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| On the left is a rack full of spatulas and spoons.
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| From the models and logo on the handles, it looks like all the cooking utensils are from the same maker.
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| In the middle of the ingredients table, there is a row of spice bottles and a set of colored cutting boards.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Artem, what is all this?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Celestine told me that we were going to be doing our own cooking, so I brought some tools along.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' You mean to say... that all of this... is yours?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Yes. But it's inconvenient for me to bring everything, so I only bought the ones I commonly use.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ... You mean, there's more?
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Artem... are you a master chef?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I just do some basic home cooking.
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| You scan the table again. The many cooking utensils, spice bottles, and cutting boards tell a different story.
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| Artem senses your doubt
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' When I first learned how to cook, I could only follow the step-by-step instructions in the cooking book.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I followed the cooking book down to a tee, everything from the knives, cutting board, spices, and ingredients.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Though I don't need to measure the spices anymore, I've retained the habit of using different cookware.
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| After saying that, Artem looks at the unconscious fish, then at you.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Hmm... I think it'll be better if I take care of this fish.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Oh... okay.
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| You nod your head in shame.
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| Artem's swift movements with the knife puts you in awe of his skills. Soon, the fish is completely cleaned.
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| He slices the fish's body a couple more times before putting in a bunch of stuff you don't know.
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| You thought he was done, but Artem starts gently massaging the fish.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Artem, are you massaging the fish?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Yes. This is to remove the fishy odor and to also make the fish more tasty.
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| Really? No wonder your fish doesn't taste all that good when you do grill it...
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| Seeing Artem's fluid movements, you have mixed feelings.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ...
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Are you bored?
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ... Ah?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I must be boring you since I don't know any trending topics to talk about. Sorry.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' No, no! I'm not bored at all!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I'm just... amazed by your culinary skills...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Artem, you're always so busy with work, yet you can still find the time to cook... and you do it so well...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I'm clearly not as busy when compared to you... yet...
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' ...
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Do you think girls need to be good at cooking?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' There's no need for that.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Huh?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' People cannot, and should not, be defined by their genders as to what they should be and what they can do.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' People are multi-faceted. There is more than one way to be excellent.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Your are excellent in your own way.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' No matter if it's being an attorney or being a girl.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ...
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| Artem's serious response to your casual complaint takes you by surprise.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Besides... if you can't cook, all's fine so long as you have someone else who can do it for you.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Artem, you will definitely make a great husband someday!
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| Artem suddenly drops the spice bottle in his hand. You reach out to catch it.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' !!!
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| That is when you realize what you just said. It was over the line, especially towards someone of the opposite gender!
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| Why did you blurt that out of all things? Quick! Change the topic!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Um... Artem! Can you teach me how to massage the fish!?
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| {{tab/header|Story 4}}
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| '''Scene 1: Camp Site'''
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| After you and Artem massage the fish for a good ten minutes. Artem uses tinfoil paper to wrap it up.
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| By the time you two are done, everyone has already returned to camp.
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| With everyone working together, all the preparations were quickly completed.
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| Artem's technique is as flawless as his prep work. Under his guidance, your fish looks edible as well.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' It looks great? I've never cooked anything as good as this before!
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| After taste-testing the beef skewer you made, you rush over to Artem with your other beef skewer.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Master, have a taste. That way, you can better teach your apprentice!
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| You catch Artem glancing at the skewers waiting to be flipped. So you hold your beef skewer up to his mouth.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Hey...!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I'll hold it for you. Have a bite.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Don't worry. I'll be careful. I won't drip oil on your shirt.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Come on, it won't be as nice once it gets cold!
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| At your urging, Artem finally lowers his head and takes a bite of the beef skewer.
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| His face is a little red from the heat of the burning charcoal. His lips, stained with oil from the beef, glistens in the light.
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| Feeling your cheeks heat up from being exposed to the charcoal fire, your hurriedly move your face further away from it.
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| Is this what they mean by, "Men who can cook are especially handsome"...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Ah, Artem, the tomatoes! The tomatoes are burning!
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| Artem quickly takes the tomatoes off the grill and seasons them to perfection.
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| Afterward, with your combined efforts, the first batch of sizzlingly delicious skewers was ready.
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| You look around the camp. Everyone was either huddled around the corner grill or taking a leisurely walk.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Are their noses not working? It smells so delicious here.
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| You prepare to call them over, but Artem stops you.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Don't call them over. Bring it to them.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Why? They're just talking amongst themselves now, so they didn't notice that the barbecue is ready.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' They'll come over when they hear it's done!
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' What I mean is that there isn't any real need for them to come here.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Huh?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Everyone is nervous around me.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Whether as their senious or superior, my presence means they won't be able to relax.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' The purpose of today's team building is for everyone to relax. This is the way for everyone to relax.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Bring the skewers over to them and talk with them for a while.
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| Artem begins to cook the next batch of skewers after helping you place the cooked skewers onto the place.
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| You walk over to the other grill.
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| Colleague A: Hey look, Mr. Wing is grilling.
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| Colleague B: Mr. Wing is a workaholic. He wouldn't know how to cook. It won't be any good, I'm sure!
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| Colleague A: He seems to know what he's doing. It smells fantastic, better than the grill shops. Maybe we should go over?
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| Colleague B: How about you go there yourself?
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| Colleague A: I can't! I made a mistake with an article of law in the report I turned in the day before. He'll scold me!
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| Colleague B: I can't either. There was a spelling error in the report I turned in yesterday.
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| Colleague C: Don't look at me... My report is already overdue... I haven't dared look at Mr. Wing all day...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Are you guys serious? It's just to grab some skewers. Why are you guys being so overly cautious?
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Mr. Wing is normally strict, but he is more concerned with the matter more than the person. He's not a bad guy.
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| Colleague A: Of course I know what Mr. Wing is like! He's the reason I chose to work at Themis Law Firm. He's my idol!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Then why don't you take this opportunity to get to know your idol a little more?
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| Colleague A: Easy for you to say! Sigh... I'll be honest. I'm not afraid of him, I'm more afraid of how I'll act around him...
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| Colleague A: I want to show him the best side of me, but I always end up making a mistake. In the end, I can't face him.
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| Colleague B: Yeah! I used to think that I might have enough courage to talk to him if I improve enough one day...
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| Colleague B: But, he takes two steps for every step I do. So I still can't seem to approach Mr. Wing no matter how much I improve...
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| Colleague B: I used to think that I was a pretty good attorney, but everytime I see hin... Yeah, let's not talk about it.
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| Colleague C: Sigh. For us normal people, perhaps, the best way to get along with a genius is to appreciate them from a distance.
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| Listening to everyone makes your recall what Artem told you earlier. You didn't quite know how to respond.
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| Colleague C: How about you continue helping Mr. Wing do the skewer deliveries? You can help us convey our awe too.
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| Colleague A: Yeah, yeah! His skewers are fantastics! Can you get us some more?
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ...
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| Foodies! Wait... Right!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Nope! I'm not some messenger! You can go get it yourself!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' See that? The next batch of delicious skewers is almost ready! If you don't go now, I'll eat them all myself! Humph!
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| Colleague A: Nooo! How cruel of you!
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| Colleague B: Wow! That's so cruel! You're going to get a stomachache from all the food!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Don't you guys know that women will develop a second stomach when eating delicious food?
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| Colleague C: Argh, you're forcing us to go over...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Nonsense! Mr. Wing's skewers are out of this world. It's more like... baiting!
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| Empty plate in hand, you hop briskly back to Artem's side while humming.
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| Soon, the second batch of skewers is ready.
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| Not waiting for Artem, you grab all the skewers and look back at everyone staring at you from a distance.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' What are you...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' The purpose of this team building is for everyone to relax! Everyone. So that includes you too, Artem!
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' ...
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| With the other colleagues staring, you purposely eat the skewers slowly, relishing in each and every bite
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I refuse to believe you foodies will be able to refuse the temptation!
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| Soon, one of your colleagues succumbs to the temptation and heads over to you. Your plan worked!
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| Colleague A: Um... Mr. Wing... can I eat this skewer...
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' You...
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| Colleague A: Sorry! I'm so sorry! About that report last Friday, I know that...
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' ... I was going to say that that skewer isn't ready yet.
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| Colleague A: Huh?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Have a lamb skewer first instead.
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| {{tab/header|Story 5}}
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| '''Scene 1: Camp Site'''
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| Seeing their colleague successfully get a skewer, the other colleagues gradually begin to swarm around Artem.
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| They'd all started out asking politely for the skewers, but it soon became an all-out battle for skewers!
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| Colleague A: Mr. Wing, please grill more chicken wings! Just five more!
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| Colleague B: Go away! You've already had more than enough! Mr. Wing, please grill more beef skewers!
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| Seeing everyone gather noisily around Artem, you couldn't help but feel a myriad of feelings...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Why won't anyone eat my beef pineapple skewers!?
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| With everyone scrambling to eat the delicious food, the meat soon ran out.
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| Seeing the fruits, you recall watching a video and made skewers from the leftover beef and pineapple.
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| With Artem busy grilling the last batch, you decide to grill the skewers yourself.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Kiki, try this beef pineapple skewer I made!
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| Kiki looks around and finds everyone long gone.
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' Ugh... I'd rather not. Grilling meat and fruit together... feels like a rather bizarre combination.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' What about sweet and sour pork? It's also meat cooked with fruit and that's delicious!
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' ...
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' Sigh... I didn't want to say it because we're friends...
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' I know sweet and sour pork is good... I just...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Don't believe me?
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' You said it! I didn't say it!
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| Kiki ran away.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Hmph, I'll eat it myself.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Ew...
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| ... But that video blogger made it look so good...
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' ...
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| Artem grabs a beef pineapple skewer from you.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Ah wait, Artem!, That's...
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| Kiki, an ever-curious foodie who is willing to try anything, wouldn't even try your skewer. Artem definitely...
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| Sure enough, it just as you expect. He frowns with a single bite of the beef.
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| But he ends up swallowing it before taking a bite of the pineapple.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' It's okay if you spit it out... even I wanted to spit it out...
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| The difference between Artem's skewers and your own is like day and light, especially after having eaten his.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' There's no issue with the combination. I think it's the seasoning.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Huh?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Switch to a neutral oil should make it work.
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| Artem collects the remaining beef pineapple skewers and brushes them evenly with unsalted butter before grilling them.
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| After a few minutes on the grill, the skewers are coated in a beautiful bronze glaze.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Try it.
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| You take the skewer and gently blow on it. With a careful bite...
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| The sourness in the pineapple was replaced with a soft sweetness. The tender meat bursts with flavor!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' So yummy!
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| You impatiently take a second bite.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Hot, hot, hot!
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| Artem softly laughs as he uncaps a water bottle and hands it to you. He then puts the remaining beef pineapple skewers on the grill.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' What else do you want to grill?
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Fruits!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I saw online pictures of grilled pears, apples, and bananas! There were also peach pork, peach chicken, and apple sausages!
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| With Artem at the helm of the grill, you excitedly rattle off a long list of things that you've been wanting to try.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' I'll try.
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| Your colleagues swarm around Artem once they realize he's grilling again. To their dismay, it's all fruits.
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| But after hearing that it was Artem's idea to grill fruits and not yours, they muster the courage to give it a shot.
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' Wow! The peaches, pineapples, and bananas are all delicious!
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| Colleague A: Give me another apple please!
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| Colleague B: Leave a banana for me...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Hey! Your attitudes changed away too fast!
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| You puff and your cheeks angrily at the nerve of them all. You hear a chuckle sound beside you.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Heh.
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| The warm light of the bonfire softens Artem's cold features. A night of barbecue had dissipated his usual woody scent.
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| Behind him was the night sky, never-ending and full of stars.
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| He wasn't the top attorney that everyone kept away from right now, but a completely different person you've never seen before.
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| Surrounded by fire and smoke, with a smile that shines brighter than any of the surrounding flames.
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| You wonder if there will be more opportunities like this for you to learn more about Artem.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Thanks.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' For what? Team building is a rare opportunity for everyone to bond!
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Are you free next Saturday? Want to come with me for a leisurely drive?
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Huh?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' ... Think of it as my thanks for today?
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| It's another opportunity to get to know him better.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' I'd like that!
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| {{tab/header|Story 6}}
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| '''Scene 1: Public Workspace'''
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| The first day back after the team building, everyone was still stuck in the barbecue mood.
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| Colleague A: Who would have thought that Artem Wing would be so good at cooking?
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| Colleague B: Yeah, yeah! He even grilled me my favorite skewer and warned me that it was hot when handing it to me!
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' The most amazing thing, in my opinion, is how he made fruit skewers, as bizarre as it is, delicious! And he even ate it!
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' I always thought he was cold and distant, but he looked kind of cute when eating that bizarre dish!
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| Colleague A: Hahaha! I also noticed that he had the same expression as me when eating the grilled bananas!
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| Colleague B: Yeah! To think that he'll actually have the same reactions to us, ordinary folk, when eating skewers!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Were you expecting something different?
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Honestly, how badly have all of you been misunderstanding Artem?
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| Speak of the devil, Artem walks by with a stack of documents.
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| Colleague A: Good morning, Mr. Wing. That's a lot of stuff you're holding there. Do you need help with those documents?
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Good timing, you guys come over here.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' There are some errors, in the documents you submitted last week.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Firstly, attorneys of your experience should not be making mistakes with the document format.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Secondly, citation of this law would be...
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| Artem points out all their mistakes in a calm but no-nonsense tone.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Please make a revised schedule according to your own workloads and hand it to me before noon.
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| Artem turns around and heads into his own office. A silence falls over the once cheery and lively office.
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' ...Sobs...
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' It was a dream... I experienced a whole new world so beautiful last weekend... and now I'm back to reality
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Of... Of course not...
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| You tried so hard to change everyone's view on Artem, but it only lasted a week. There must be a better way!
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| You try your best to maintain your smile as you explain to everyone.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' The team building was to help everyone relax. Artem has high demands only because he expects great things from us. of us all.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' His strict standards are all for our own good.
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| '''Scene 2: Artem's office'''
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| At the same time in Artem's office...
| |
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' I thought the employees' impression of you would change completely after the team building.
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' At least you made progress with the most important person.
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' No wonder my Jeremy is always practicing his culinary skills. Men who can cook are indeed the most attractive.
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| Celestine leans gently against the office door to eavesdrop on the conversations outside.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' If you have so much free time, then maybe you can try thinking of how to persuade our witness to appear in court.
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' There you go again! All you talk about is work! Do you even know how to have a conversation!?
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| A faint conversation comes through the door. Celestine ignores Artem and listens in. Even Artem stops typing...
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| '''Scene 3: Public Workspace'''
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' Yon don't seem afraid of Artem.
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Artem is always strict, but that's only because he cares about everyone.
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' Is that so...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' In those documents, he demands perfection, not only in word choice but punctuation as well...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' But because of Artem's meticulous nature, we are always ready to face the judge and opposing counsel!
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' I guess so...
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' Right? Artem is also very dependable when we go on those company retreats.
| |
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' He's prepared for everything and anything. And he's great at cooking!
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| | |
| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' ... Did you forget how everyone got collectively car sick along the way?
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' But on the way back, Artem prepared ginger and warm vinegar water to help everyone with their car sickness!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' So, if Artem comes along, all we have to worry about is how to have fun and enjoy ourselves!
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' So in the workplace, he's the best colleague. in conclusion, he's the best...
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| You bite your tongue. You came so close to saying "partner".
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| '''[[Kiki Bennet|Kiki Bennet]]:''' Best, what? Huh? Why's your face all red?
| |
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| '''[[Main Character|You]]:''' ...T-The heater is so hot!
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| | |
| '''Scene 4: Artem's office'''
| |
| | |
| Celestine gently closes the door.
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' Not bad! You've made good progress!
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| Artem sits at his computer and can't help but to facepalm, seemingly at a loss.
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| '''[[Artem Wing|Artem]]:''' Go back to work.
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| '''[[Celestine Taylor|Celestine Taylor]]:''' Honestly! Why do I even bother with you!
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| Celestine leaves. But what she didn't realize was that his hands had been positioned to cover his ears that had gone bright red.
| |