Axolotl Translations

The sky outside had turned completely dark, a vast, heavy curtain of ink stretched across the city. The neon lights flashing across the skyline were too bright, too overwhelming, drowning out the stars. Only the lone morning star remained visible, its glow faint against the artificial brilliance.

Ruan Zhao stopped by a convenience store and bought a bottle of water. He had originally wanted ice cream, but his funds were running dangerously low. Between ice cream and bottled water, he could only choose one.

He agonized over the decision for a while, but in the end, he went for the more practical option—water. Sipping carefully, he savored every drop. The last traces of heat and discomfort in his body finally faded. He wiped the moisture off his lips and quickly screwed the cap back on.

[System, I’m broke…] Ruan Zhao mumbled. [Where did all my money go?]

The system scrolled through his character profile.

[You tipped it all to male streamers.]

[…?]

Ruan Zhao blinked. “…Male streamers?” The kind he was thinking of? Did they even have that profession in this futuristic world?

The system chirped back, unfazed. [On Starlight Platform. You had a thing for those Alpha streamers who… well, let’s just say they pushed the limits. You used to tip them over 10,000 star credits per session.]

[10,000 star credits?]

Ruan Zhao still wasn’t entirely sure how much that was worth, so he repeated the number in confusion.

The system offered a simple, gut-wrenching comparison.

[That could’ve bought you 10,000 ice creams.]

Ruan Zhao: [!!!]

That much?! His heart clenched so tight he could barely breathe.

Just then, a notification pinged in his ear. “Ding-ding! Your favorite streamer, Louis, is now live! Come support him! 🌹🌹🌹”

Technology in this world was light-years ahead; smartphones were relics. People used light-brains now—wearable AI devices that came in various customizable forms—earrings, watches, necklaces… or even nano-implants that seamlessly integrated into the body, activated by mere thought. Ruan Zhao’s light-brain was a dark-colored wristband, snugly fastened around his right wrist.

Curious, he pressed a button. A virtual screen appeared in front of him—only visible to his eyes.

And then—

A half-naked, muscular man practically leaped out of the screen. Startled, Ruan Zhao stumbled backward, nearly tripping over himself.

A deep, deliberately husky male voice purred: ÑWelcome, Soft Soft Baby, to my stream.]

The Alpha’s face was undeniably gorgeous—his sharp features enhanced even further by the crisp details of the holographic projection. His defined abs, lean waist… everything was impossibly vivid. His gaze, warm and playful, his voice, gentle yet dripping with charm.

[Soft Soft Baby, just got out of class? You’re a little late today.]

Ruan Zhao was a top-tier VIP on Starlight Platform. The moment he entered, a dazzling starlight effect filled the screen—a glowing galaxy swirling for a full ten seconds, showcasing his VIP status in all its glory.

The Alpha streamer’s chat exploded.

[Welcome, Soft Soft Baby!]

[Welcome, Soft Soft Baby!]

[Soft Soft Baby, hi!]

[Soft Soft Baby, good evening!]

[Soft Soft Baby, have you eaten yet?]

[Soft Soft Baby, I love you!]

At this point, the words “Soft Soft” and “Baby” had lost all meaning for Ruan Zhao.

Frantically, he searched for the exit button and slammed the ‘X’ in a panic. The half-naked Alpha vanished.

He took a moment to steady himself, but the scene replayed vividly, leaving him slightly shaken. Pressing his lips together, he muttered, [Why is he always shirtless? …Have I really been spending money on these guys?]

The system confirmed matter-of-factly. [Yep. You love this type of Alpha—handsome face, great body. You’ve followed fifteen similar streamers, and you’re a fan of every single one. If multiple go live at once, you even set up split-screens to watch them all… ensuring everyone gets equal attention.]

Ruan Zhao: […]

[That guy, Louis? You found him two months ago, when he was just a small-time streamer. In those two months, you’ve dropped over a million star credits on him alone.]

A million… Ruan Zhao’s vision went black for a moment.

He couldn’t even afford an ice cream, let alone a decent meal, and he’d been throwing money at shirtless male streamers just to hear them call him ‘Soft Soft’ in a deep, husky voice? Unbelievable.

Ruan Zhao: [Can I get a minor’s refund?]

The system hesitated. [Uh… but Zhaozhao, you’re an adult.]

Then, trying to lighten the mood, it added, [But don’t worry! You can always ask your family for money. Your older brother works in the Federal Treasury Department—he’s loaded. A million star credits is pocket change for him.]

Ruan Zhao: […You’re kidding, right?]

Following the system’s instructions, Ruan Zhao found his brother’s contact and hesitantly sent a message.

[You there?]

Classic little sibling trying to get money from their older sibling tactics.

He waited patiently. Minutes ticked by—still no response.

The night deepened, the streets emptying. Even though Imperial City was known for its excellent public safety, an Omega as delicate and defenseless as him lingering outside alone was not the safest idea. The system urged him to head home.

With no money for a cab, he had no choice but to take the bus. The driver was a tiny, round robot with large, gleaming mechanical eyes and a voice as soft and sweet as mochi. As Ruan Zhao boarded, the robot greeted him enthusiastically, repeating its welcome several times.

This was his first time encountering such a lively little robot, and he actually found it kind of cute. Unable to resist, he stared at it for a moment.

Sensing his gaze, the robot turned. “Passenger, do you need anything?”

Ruan Zhao shook his head, offering a polite smile.

Instantly, the robot’s eyes lit up, faint red hues appearing on its metal cheeks.

Oh my god.

A cute Omega had smiled at it!

This was officially the best thing that had happened to it all day.

It had to drive extra smoothly, extra quickly—no bumps, no swerves, nothing to disturb its precious passenger! The tiny robot pressed the accelerator, waiting for Ruan Zhao to settle before zooming off with practiced precision.

The bus was nearly empty. Ruan Zhao took a seat in the very last row.

The back of his neck itched, a persistent soreness. He wasn’t sure if it was an allergy or something else, but the skin around his suppressant patch was noticeably red.

The system zipped over for a quick check. “This is normal,” it reassured him. “But, Zhao Zhao, be careful not to scratch it. If you do, it might break open and get infected.”

The system helped him pull up his collar slightly, covering the red, swollen gland while also blocking a faint, lingering gaze from nearby.

A high school student, an Alpha, sat a few seats away. He’d noticed Ruan Zhao the moment he boarded.

The Omega’s face was small and delicate, his bright, round eyes naturally captivating. The subtle flush at the corners of his eyes only amplified his beauty.

Beautiful. Mesmerizing.

The Alpha had never seen an Omega so stunning.

His face flushed, and he hesitated. He wanted to introduce himself.

But how?

He mentally rehearsed his opening lines, trying to figure out the best way to start a conversation without coming across as awkward or rude.

And then—

A strong scent hit him.

Alpha senses were the keenest, and this overwhelming, pungent floral smell was like a weaponized assault on his nose.

His body tensed. Instinctively, he clamped a hand over his nose, his survival instincts kicking in as he desperately held his breath.

Why… why did this Omega smell like that?

Wait—was that his actual pheromone?

The Alpha felt his heart shatter into a million pieces. In all his years, he had never been so drawn to an Omega before. And yet… his pheromone scent was this? This utterly baffling, illogical scent?

The Omega seemed to sense his distress. He lifted his gaze, meeting the Alpha’s eyes.

For a fleeting moment, their eyes locked. And in that instant, the Alpha saw a galaxy reflected in those irises—shimmering stars scattered across a night sky, a universe in his luminous gaze.

Stunning.

Suddenly, the Alpha felt a surge of renewed confidence. He straightened, adopting a poised, dignified posture. He was ready to approach.

Ruan Zhao, of course, had noticed this odd guy long ago.

First, he stared at him without blinking. Then, like a dog sniffing for clues, he kept taking deep inhales—until his expression flashed through an entire spectrum of emotions, turning red, then white, then something in between. His face was practically a walking color palette.

And now?

For some unknown reason, he had clearly made up his mind about something—because he was suddenly rushing toward him with enthusiasm.

Ruan Zhao instinctively tightened his coat. He felt like he’d attracted a thief or a creep.

So, the moment the bus reached the next stop, he bolted out the doors, escaping the scene of impending weirdness as fast as possible.

Ruan Zhao’s apartment was still about a kilometer away. Penniless, he had no choice but to walk.

As he passed by strangers on the street, heads turned—people giving him long, unreadable stares.

Maybe it was because he was drowning in an oversized coat, making him look disheveled and out of place. Or maybe an Omega walking alone so late was simply unusual.

Ruan Zhao quickened his pace.

God, this day was a disaster. A complete and utter disaster.

It was his first day in this world, and he’d already been through hell. He’d almost been… well, best not to dwell on that.

And now?

Completely broke. If his brother didn’t reply soon, he wouldn’t even have money for food tomorrow.

Just as the thought crossed his mind, his AI wristband chimed, a flurry of notifications cutting through the air.

Someone had sent him a message. Was it his brother?!

His eyes lit up, and he quickly swiped open the screen.

But instead of a helpful reply, he was met with—

Two carefully posed ab shots. The sender had clearly put a lot of effort into flexing in the mirror, twisting his torso just enough to enhance the V-line effect.

The angle? Strategically taken from below, making his shoulders seem broader and waistline slimmer—the perfect inverted triangle shape.

Ruan Zhao: “…What the hell?”

Why was this guy sending him thirst traps?

Block. Block. BLOCK.

Louis: [Softie, why did you suddenly leave my stream? Did something urgent come up?]

Ruan Zhao ignored him.

Louis: [Softie, have you eaten yet?]

Ruan Zhao remained silent, but his stomach, the traitor, let out a loud growl.

Notification: [You’ve received a real-time transfer. Amount: 520 credits.]

Louis: [Don’t starve yourself, Softie. Eat well.]

Ruan Zhao’s finger was just about to hit the block button when he saw the transfer.

520 credits. That was 520 ice creams—the kind he could never bring himself to buy. That was enough food for days, no more starving.

His finger hovered over the block button, hesitation creeping in.

Sure, this shirtless streamer had a habit of showing too much skin, but… he was actually kind of nice? He’d even sent him money.

If his brother didn’t reply, this could literally keep him from going hungry.

In the end, Ruan Zhao didn’t block him.

Instead, he typed a quick, [Thanks.]

Louis: [Why so distant today, Softie? If you really want to thank me, just drop by my stream more often. Keep me company, chat a little.]

…Emmm. Go to his stream? To watch him shirtless, calling random people “baby”? Yeah, no.

But… since he did send money, whatever. Just agree for now. Whether he actually follows through was a problem for future Ruan Zhao.

Soft Soft: […I will.]

Ruan Zhao made it safely back to his apartment. He spent fifteen credits ordering takeout.

Less than ten minutes later, a mechanical bird tapped on his window. Ruan Zhao took the food bag from its sharp little beak.

The bird let out a cheerful squawk: “Don’t forget to leave a five-star review, dear customer!”

Ruan Zhao stared, intrigued.

The mechanical bird blinked its bright little eyes and locked gazes with him. Then, in perfect, clear pronunciation, it repeated: “Five-star review, customer. Thank you. Five stars.”

Ruan Zhao chuckled. “Alright, alright, I got it. I’ll give you a five-star review.”

Satisfied, the mechanical bird flapped its wings and flew off. It was fast—a blink, and it was gone, a faint shadow disappearing into the distance.

His takeout was simple—one meat dish, one vegetable, and a bowl of white rice. The taste wasn’t anything special, but Ruan Zhao wasn’t picky. When you’re starving, anything tasted good.

He was halfway through his meal when a video call came through.

It was his older brother, Ruan Ci, an Alpha seven years his senior. Maybe due to their different secondary genders, Ruan Ci looked nothing like him.

He had a cold, distant face—pale, almost bloodless skin and jet-black hair creating a stark contrast. His single-lidded eyes had shallow creases, and his sharp brows gave him an icy, intimidating look. When he stared at someone, it felt unsettlingly cold.

Ruan Ci’s gaze lingered on Ruan Zhao’s face, then shifted down, noticing the half-eaten meal on the table.

“That’s all you’re eating?” His brows furrowed, clearly displeased. “Did you already burn through the million I sent you at the beginning of the month?”

Ruan Zhao picked up a bite of plain rice, chewed twice, and swallowed.

Such a strict older brother… How was he supposed to ask for money now?

“Talk.” Ruan Ci narrowed his eyes, clearly displeased with Ruan Zhao’s silence. “Where did all the money go?”

Ruan Zhao braced himself. “I spent it. That’s it.”

Ruan Ci let out a cold laugh. “Let me guess—you wasted it on tipping those Alphas again?”

“Ruan Zhao, you’re unbelievable. Truly.” His voice turned icy, filled with restrained fury. “You can’t even afford food, and you’re still throwing money at those freeloading bastards? Have you completely lost your mind? What kind of idiot—”

Ruan Zhao: “…” Please, stop. I get it. I was wrong. So wrong.

Ruan Ci was furious.

Half of it was because Ruan Zhao never learned his lesson—he had warned him countless times that those streamers were just milking him for money, that their sweet talk was all a scam. But Ruan Zhao wouldn’t listen.

The other part? He was pissed Ruan Zhao wasn’t taking care of himself.

He was starving, yet all he had was this cheap, low-grade takeout—meat substitutes, artificially grown rice, completely devoid of nutrition.

The slender Omega shrank in his chair, head lowered, silently enduring the scolding.

His pale fingers gripped his chopsticks tightly, pushing rice around his bowl. The chopsticks themselves looked cheap and rough, with visible splinters—how was he not bothered by that?

And his jawline… it looked sharper than before. He’d lost weight. Again.

“I must’ve owed you big time in my past life.” Ruan Ci sighed. “Now I’m stuck spending this one working like a damn mule for you.”

Ruan Zhao pressed his lips together. He could feel Ruan Ci’s anger, but he knew he was in the wrong. And honestly, he had no idea how to make it better. So, he stayed quiet.

“Enough with the pitiful act.” Ruan Ci pinched the bridge of his nose, rubbing at a growing headache. “It’s not like I’m forbidding you from watching them.”

Ruan Zhao cautiously lifted his gaze, glancing at his brother.

“I swear I won’t watch them anymore. And I won’t waste money, either.”

Ruan Ci’s expression remained blank. “You said the same thing last month. And what happened? The second they called you ‘baby’ and whispered sweet nonsense, you went running back—throwing gifts at them like an idiot.”

Ruan Zhao: “…This time, I really mean it.”

Ruan Ci responded with a flat, unimpressed, “Sure.”

“No meeting them in private. No agreeing to in-person meetups. And definitely don’t entertain any shady requests—you know exactly what I mean by that.”

“No video calls. No sending pictures. And absolutely no sharing personal information.”

As an Alpha himself, Ruan Ci knew all too well the predatory nature lurking beneath their charming facades.

Ruan Zhao was a beautiful Omega—the kind that had Alphas chasing after him since childhood. By the time he hit high school, his locker was bursting with love letters.

So, Ruan Ci watched him like a hawk, always worried that some predator would take advantage of him.

And those Alphas on livestream platforms, sweet-talking Omegas into throwing money at them? Not a single one of them was decent. Every last one was trash.

Ruan Ci wanted Ruan Zhao nowhere near them. But no matter how hard he tried, Ruan Zhao was hooked—spending hours in livestreams, burning through money like water, to the point where he couldn’t even afford food.

The thought alone hardened Ruan Ci’s tone. “If you spend all your money on livestreams again, I won’t send another star credit.”

“And one more thing…”

His next words were slow, deliberate, dripping with threat. “If I find out you’ve been sneaking off to meet those Alphas in person…” He paused. “You’re dead.”

Before Ruan Zhao could react, the call ended.

A second later—

His bank account received a large transfer.

One zero. Two zeros. Three… Six in total.

And in front of them? A two.

Two million. Just like that.

Ruan Zhao’s hands started shaking, and for the first time, he felt the weight of his financial situation.

Big Brother, you’re my real brother.

He was overwhelmed, so he quickly sent Ruan Ci a string of messages:

[Thank you, Brother!]

[Brother, I love you!]

[Brother, you’re the best brother in the world!]

A full minute passed before Ruan Ci replied with a cold, indifferent period.

[.]

[Stop the flattery. I’m not buying it.]

Another minute later.

[Your food just arrived. Go get it.]

……

Ruan Ci had ordered from one of the most exclusive private restaurants in the area.

The kind that charged an obscene amount per dish—where just one bite probably cost more than his entire fast-food meal from earlier.

And of course, the taste was every bit as extravagant as its price.

Ruan Zhao stuffed himself, savoring every last bite. Then, feeling completely satisfied, he snapped a photo of the empty plates and happily sent it to Ruan Ci.

The message was marked as read, but no reply came. Ruan Zhao wasn’t surprised. He had long accepted that his brother was the definition of tough love—all bark, but secretly soft-hearted.

[Goodnight, Brother. Sleep early, okay? Don’t stay up too late.]

He cleared the table, dumped the trash, and took a long, hot shower before collapsing onto his bed, finally ready to sleep.

As soon as he closed his eyes and started to drift, the communicator by his pillow lit up and rang.

Annoyed, he blindly fumbled for the device, hit decline, and rolled over.

Silence for about three seconds. Then—

The ear-piercing ringtone blasted through the quiet night again.

Ruan Zhao shot up, frustration etched on his face. Who the hell was calling at this hour?!

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