The Subterranean Symphony

The tram roared beneath the ground, its surroundings pitch black, only accentuating the brightness of the lights, but they just illuminate only themselves.

The conductor walked upon a red carpet, surrounded by a decor dominated by the same color. The darkness outside could not violate the sanctity of this crimson hue.

Approaching a red door marked with "69", the conductor knocked. Only after receiving a response from inside did he open the door, bowing respectfully, "Sir, your meal is ready."

"Thank you," replied the man seated within. Sporting a mustache, a collar around his neck, and dressed in a white shirt and brown jacket, he resembled a detective story's chief, exuding an aura of authority.

After pushing the food cart inside, the door was shut.

"Uncle, what did you order?" Janice, reclining on her bed, inquired.

"Two sandwiches, a cup of black coffee with butter, and a cup of hot chocolate," responded the mustached man, none other than the renowned NO.1, Michael Jackman.

"Thanks." Janice took the sandwiches and hot chocolate, immediately remarking about the hot plastic cup.

"Why did you insist on experiencing the New Year celebration in person?" Michael finally voiced his confusion, having been coerced into this journey by Janice.

"The New Year is a significant event. One must be present to truly appreciate its grandeur," Janice explained.

"I understand its symbolism, marking the end of a year. But watching it on TV captures the essence just as well. Going there seems like a waste of time," retorted Michael, biting into his sandwich.

"It won't be a waste. Plus, we can also tour TALK," Janice suggested.

Just as England has its T-City, TELEP, China boasts its own, T-City – TALK. There are others in Russia, the Nanyang Alliance, Japan, and India. Janice had previously visited TELEP, making this her second visit to a T-City.

Eager to witness the majestic Forbidden City, Janice lamented the Great Wall's destruction in the Third World War but was comforted by China's numerous ancient relics.

"Fine, you have a point," Michael conceded, focusing on his coffee.

"Why did you suddenly decide on this New Year's trip? Doesn't TOWER also have celebrations?" he asked.

"I have a deep appreciation for different cultures," Janice fibbed, when in reality, it was Lily's invitation. Judging from Lily's fondness for Chinese historical dramas, Janice deduced her admiration for Chinese culture.

"Coming from the student who scored the lowest in history, that's believable," Michael teased.

Janice pouted, looking more endearing than the cold demeanor she usually wore.

Taking another sip of her hot chocolate, she delved back into "Romance of the Three Kingdoms". The book, recommended by Lily, had Janice praising Guan Yu, suspecting Lily admired his valor and loyalty. 

"What prompted you to read this?" Michael, noticing her tablet, leaned in to inquire.

"Someone recommended it," Janice replied truthfully.

"Lily?"

"Yes."

"Do you find it engaging?"

"It's alright."

"Agreed," Michael chimed in, grateful for Janice's perspective. He had always wondered why this book was one of China's Four Great Classics, finding it merely a historical account.

"Which character do you like?" Given Michael's admiration for Guan Yu, he was curious about Janice's preference.

"Liu Bei," she answered. She felt a strange connection between Liu Bei and the 'HERO' Brian often spoke of, perhaps due to her own admiration for her.

The ringing of Michael's phone interrupted them, a distinct electronic tone.

"Hello?" Michael answered.

"We have a job," a mature voice, unmistakably Valentine's, said.

"What's the job?"

"Our things got stolen."

"Handle it yourselves. I have more pressing matters," Michael dismissed.

"You mean going to TALK for opera?"

"Regardless, I'm busy. Consider this my leave."

"You act like you're her father or something?"

"Father," Michael coldly replied before ending the call.

***

"Why're you on that Chinese book?" Jackson asked, munching on a pastry.

"Lily's idea," Brian replied with a resigned look.

"The title?"

"Romance of the Three Kingdoms."

"The plot?"

"Just from the title, you can guess – three kingdoms fighting until only one remains."

"Which one won?"

"I haven't finished yet."

"Alright," Jackson shrugged.

"What did you get for Alicia?" Brian changed the topic, knowing Jackson visited Alicia's grave earlier.

"Roses," Jackson answered, his face darkening.

"She'll like it," Brian consoled, equally somber.

***

Gordon sat on a wooden chair, head resting on the table. The fan playfully tousled his hair, making him look like a protagonist from a drama. Elena, observing him, found him adorable. Kneeling beside him, she was engrossed in admiring his face.

"Miss, you're staring quite intently," Gordon remarked, opening his eyes.

"Your posture was just too cute," Elena explained.

"I'll change it then," Gordon lifted his head, adjusting his posture.

"Come on, don't you like compliments?" Elena inquired.

"Not particularly," Gordon replied.

"Then let me know, I dressed up especially today. I didn't want you thinking I look boyish," Elena said.

"That's what girls do," Gordon replied.

"Do they? Just because I wear men's clothes doesn't mean I'm a man," Elena retorted.

"Yes," Gordon relented.

Lily's voice broke their conversation. Recognizing it, they realized their proximity and quickly distanced themselves.

"I didn't see anything," Lily assured, eyes closed.

"We were just..."

"Continue, you two," Lily interrupted.

"We weren't doing anything!" Elena's face flushed further.