《Genshin Impact: Villain Life Simulator》


 Character Details (Contains Spoiler)

    <h4>Chapter -1: Character Details (Contains Spoiler)</h4>


    Name: Lucas


    Age: 20


    Gender: Male


    <strong>Summon: Greymon -</strong><strong></strong> Summons a Greymon to assist inbat.


    <strong>Servent: Raiden Mai</strong> - A puppet made by Raiden Ei.


    <strong>Equipments:


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Serenitea Pot -</strong> Provides an independent space outside of Teyvat, allowing for storage or a ce to reside without being discovered.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Giant''s Gauntlets -</strong> The size and weight of your fists increase with the force of your punches.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>M1911 Handgun -</strong> Comes with a silencer, 7-round capacity.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Mask of Disguise - </strong>When worn, this mask allows you to take on the appearance of any individual you''ve seen (you can only transform into someone you''ve encountered).


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Nano Battle Suit (Youth Edition) -</strong> A nanosuit that can be equipped and repaired at the molecr level, enhancing the user''s physical abilities. Its appearance can change based on the user''s preferences.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Lion''s Roar (Sword) -</strong> Increases damage dealt by Pyro and Electro elements by 20%.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Skills:</strong>


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Charging Fist</strong> - This skill allows Lucas to umte "Heroic Intent" when attacked. The more damage he takes, the more Heroic Intent is umted. When using Charging Fist, all the umted Heroic Intent is unleashed, dealing damage to enemies in the area, with the damage and area increasing based on the Heroic Intent umted.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Heavy Punch</strong> - Increases damage to the opposite sex by 20%.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Try Again</strong> - Inherent talent. Allows Lucas to avoid death once per simtion if chosen, with a one-month cooldown in real life.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Mischievous Shiba Inu</strong> - Increases abilities when performing actions a mischievous Shiba Inu enjoys.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Diamond Body -</strong> Permanently increases defense by 10%. Once per day, can generate a defensive shield that blocks 90% of one attack''s damage.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Liar''s Bane - </strong>10% chance for others to believe your lies unconditionally, 10% chance to see through others'' lies.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Favonius Swordsmanship: Wolf''s Fang - </strong>Increases critical hit rate by 20% when used. A sword technique developed based on Wolf Pup Rostam''s fighting style.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Regenerative Factor - </strong>Greatly enhances healing ability but still causes pain during recovery.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Night Vision -</strong> Can see in the dark.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>A Knight Never Fights Barehanded - </strong>You can treat any object in your hand as a weapon, imbuing it with special properties.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Medical Sage -</strong> You have an extraordinary medical gift, destined to change the course of history through medicine.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Lord of the Undead - </strong>All undead creatures will have a favorable impression of you, and you canmand undead creatures weaker than yourself.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Dendro Archon''s Gene - </strong>The gene of the Dendro God takes root in your body, granting you the ability to wield the purest Dendro Elemental power. As your strength grows, your elemental power will increase.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Puppet Master - </strong>You are naturally gifted with a fully realistic puppet and can transfer your soul into it, temporarily acting through the puppet.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Pocket Waypoint - </strong>You can set an anchor at a specified location and instantly teleport there. Activation requires one minute of preparation, and the cooldown time is 24 hours.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Gun Kata Beta - </strong>Abat technique thatbines close-quartersbat with firearms. Requires at least one firearm to use.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Duelist''s Spear -</strong> Increases attack by 50% when fighting a single enemy.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Mystic Eye of Death</strong> <strong>Perception</strong> - You gain a chance to see the "Lines of Death" on your target. If you strike the Line of Death, you can kill the target instantly. The more they fear death, the higher the probability of a Line appearing. Conversely, the more fearless they are, the lower the probability.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>First Cup of Red Wine -</strong> After taking the first time of a pure maiden, this skill absorbs the target''s elemental affinity and converts it into a permanent attribute enhancement.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Titles:</strong>


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Blessing of the Anemo God - </strong>Agility increased by 20%.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Executioner -</strong> After killing a target, you can receive a reward proportional to the target''s strength.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>yer of Archons(Godyer)</strong> -<strong></strong> Damage against all Archon-ss targets is increased by 100%.


    </strong>


    <strong> ----


    </strong>


    <strong> I''ll update this frequently


    </strong>


    <strong> Let me know if you want me to add anything else here or if I missed something.</strong><strong>                </strong>

 Chapter 1: Villain Simulator, Ch 1

    <h4>Chapter 1: Viin Simtor, Ch 1</h4>


    Outside Liyue Harbor, in an unknown forest.


    Lucas Walker was poking the campfire in front of him with a stick, pondering over the fact that he had just transmigrated and awakened a system.


    [Congrattions to the host for activating the "Evil Life Simtor" system]


    [This system allows the host to simte a life. If you perform well in the simted life, you will receive generous rewards]


    [Additionally, the host must y an evil role in the simtor as much as possible, or face the consequences]


    "So, your function is a ''life simtor,'' and as long as I live a life through the simtor, I can get rewards?"


    [Exactly, yourprehension ismendable]


    "I can understand this system, given that I''ve read many power fantasy novels, but..." Lucas put down the stick and frowned slightly, "What does it mean that I must y an evil role in the simted life as much as possible?"


    [This system''s mechanism requires the host to constantly create chaos in the simted life to increase the ''Chaos Index.'' The higher the Chaos Index, the richer the rewards. In principle, the more evil the role the host ys, the greater the chaos created]


    "But... I don''t want to be a bad person," Lucas shook his head.


    [Host, are you perhaps a goody two-shoes?]


    "Hey, hey, just because I don''t want to be a bad person doesn''t mean I''m a saint!" Lucas couldn''t help but retort, "Also, is it so strange not to want to be a bad person? First, being a bad person means doing bad things, and I don''t want to hurt anyone. Second, being a bad person means being hated by others, and I don''t want to be hunted down."


    [Rest assured, everything that happens in the simted life is entirely fictional. You can think of it as a game. The evil deeds youmit won''t harm anyone, and simrly, even if the characters in the simted life hate you, it won''t cause you any real harm]


    "But why choose me?" Lucas asked helplessly, "Wouldn''t it be easier to directly choose an evil person?"


    Lucas might not be an absolutely kind person, but he certainly wasn''t a viin either.


    [This is also the main god''s intention. She wants to know if an ordinary person with a kind heart can maintain their true nature after constantlymitting evil acts]


    "What a nasty main god..." Lucas said with aplicated expression, "However, generally speaking, systems are meant to benefit the host. If I''m not interested in these benefits, the system can''t do anything to me, right?"


    [The main god will periodically test the host. If the host is not strong enough, they will die from being unable to withstand the test]


    It seemed he was just a toy for the main god.


    However, thinking about it, systems are inherently higher-dimensional entities. No one gets a system for no reason; there must be a purpose behind it.


    Maybe he was like Truman from "The Truman Show," just an object of observation for a higher-dimensional "main god."


    "Hmph, if that''s the case, then let''s start," Lucas seemed unwilling to give up his principles so easily, "I don''t believe that I can''t survive without being a bad person."


    [Command received, life simtor is about to start]


    [Please choose three talents from the following. One will be randomly retained as a permanent talent after the simtion ends]


    (Rarity ranges from low to high: white, green, blue, purple, gold)


    [Alcoholic (White): You love to drink]


    [Born Poor (White): It''s hard for you to get rich]


    [Humble Origin (White): You will be born into a poor family]


    [Infamous (Purple): Your effectiveness increases whenmitting evil acts]


    [All Evil (Purple): You may receive additional rewards whenmitting evil acts]


    [Retry (Purple): You can avoid death once and get another chance (usable once per simtion)]


    ...


    Aside from themon white talents, most of the rare talents were rted to "evil."


    Moreover, even the white talents were mostly negative effects, worse than not choosing at all.


    It felt like he was being forced tomit evil deeds.


    Why did other people''s "life simtors" start with various excellent talents, while his started with such a viinous setup?


    Lucas chose "Infamous," "All Evil," and "Retry."


    At worst, he just wouldn''t use them.


    [Life simtion officially begins]


    [Age 0: You were born into a merchant family in Liyue Harbor, with a well-off background]


    This start wasn''t bad.


    [Age 1: During the ''grabbing ceremony,'' you grabbed a Mora. Your father was very pleased, thinking you had the potential to be a merchant in the future]


    [Age 2: Your father hired two young women to be your wet nurses]


    So extravagant?


    But this shouldn''t count as doing something bad.


    [Age 3: You haven''t been weaned yet]


    Not weaned yet... but understandable.


    [Age 4: You haven''t been weaned yet]


    [Age 5: You haven''t been weaned yet]


    [Age 6: Your father thought this wasn''t good, so he dismissed the wet nurses]


    That''s right. How could I keep drinking like this?


    [Age 7: While ying on the street, you saw a group of boys bullying a purple-haired girl. Your choices are...]


    [1. Help the girl]


    [2. Bully the girl]


    The former is a good deed, thetter is an evil act.


    This doesn''t even need thinking!


    Bullying a little girl is too despicable.


    "Help the girl," Lucas decided.


    [You stood in front of the girl to protect her but were beaten up by the boys. You were punched in the chest by a boy twice your age and unfortunately died]


    What? This is too absurd!


    But it makes sense. Children can be reckless, and idental killing isn''t impossible.


    [Do you want to use the talent ''Retry'' to make another choice?]


    "Use it."


    [Life simtor rebooting...]


    [Age 7: While ying on the street, you saw a group of boys bullying a purple-haired girl. Your choices are...]


    [1. Help the girl]


    [2. Bully the girl]


    "B-bully the girl."


    No choice but to pick this.


    After all, it''s just a line of text in the "life simtor."


    [You joined them in bullying the purple-haired girl. Unexpectedly, the girl wasn''t weak, wielding a wooden sword and fighting back. In the end, both sides were injured. The purple-haired girl red at you and said fiercely, "I remember your face. I, Keqing, will avenge this!"]


    [Reward Obtained: D-rank Blind Box ¡Á1 (Reward can be imed after life simtion)]


    Damn... I actually offended Keqing! Keqing, the future "Liyue Qixing" Jade Star, one of the seven highest-ranked individuals in Liyue Harbor. With this grudge, my future days are bound to be tough... Fortunately, this is just a life simtor. If I offended Keqing in reality, I probably wouldn''t be able to survive in Liyue Harbor.


    [Age 8: You entered the prestigious school Tianquan Academy in Liyue Harbor, established by Tianquan Star Ningguang. Only exceptionally talented students and the children of nobles and wealthy merchants can enroll.]


    [With your wealthy background, you naturally got the chance to enroll easily. However, on the first day of school, you were shocked to discover that your deskmate was the girl named Keqing, whom you had bullied a year ago. Seeing theplicated look in her eyes, you said:]


    [1. What I did a year ago was wrong. I hope you don''t hold it against me. From today on, can... can we be friends?]


    [2. Tsk, what bad luck, to be deskmates with a violent girl like you.]


    [3. What are you looking at? Want to take a punch at me? Well, just don''t miss! (This option unlocks special character voice and grants specific rewards)]


    If I use the "Alignment Nine-Grid" to judge these three options, it would be the difference between "Lawful Good," "Neutral Evil," and "Chaotic Evil." Honestly, with my naturally kind personality, I would want to choose the first option. After all, kids don''t hold grudges for long, and Keqing isn''t a narrow-minded girl.


    Admitting my mistake now and extending a friendly gesture might not only earn her forgiveness but also make us good friends.


    However, based on the system''s past behavior, if I chose the first option, it wouldn''t end well. Not only that, but it seems the more viinous the choice, the better the rewards.


    Moreover, thest option even offers a "special character voice"... Wait a minute, if I remember correctly, isn''t this a line from the character Sett in "League of Legends"? Could choosing this option grant rewards rted to Sett? Since it''s just a life simtor, might as well maximize the benefits of being a viin.


    "What are you looking at? Want to take a punch at me? Well, just don''t miss!"


    [Special Reward Obtained: Skill - Charging Fist]


    [Effect: When attacked, you can umte "Heroic Intent" The more damage taken, the more Heroic Intent umted. When using "Charging Fist]," all umted Heroic Intent is unleashed, dealing damage to enemies in the area. The more Heroic Intent umted, the higher the damage andrger the area.]


    So it really is Sett''s voice line, and I got Sett''s skill? In that case, if I keep spouting viin lines, wouldn''t I be invincible?


    [Upon hearing your words, young Keqing''s face changed dramatically. Unable to bear her anger, she punched you in the face, causing a nosebleed. The teacher, frightened, hurriedly took you to the infirmary. Under the care of the beautiful nurse, you quickly recovered with no serious injuries.]


    [Keqing was given a major demerit for hitting a ssmate. Although she wasn''t expelled, she started being isted because of this violent incident. No one wanted to be her friend anymore.]


    Reading this, Lucas couldn''t help but feel a bit guilty and remorseful, although it was just a storyline simted by the [Life Simtor].


    [Age 9: You formed the "Crown Prince Gang" with a group of wealthy kids, acting arrogantly around the school.]


    [Age 10: Although Keqing was isted, she still studied and practiced martial arts diligently. However, she was no longer the cheerful and outgoing girl she once was, bing timid and reserved instead.]


    [Age 11: One day, you saw Keqing with a very exquisite lunch box, and you said:]


    [1. This lunch looks good. Did you make it yourself?]


    [2. What? The dignified Miss Keqing eating such a humble meal?]


    [3. I''m hungry. Feed me your lunch, or else...]


    This is too much... Lucas, though feeling reluctant, said, "I''m hungry. Feed me your lunch, or else..."


    [Upon hearing your words, a sh of anger appeared in Keqing''s eyes. But as someone who had been isted, she didn''t want to cause trouble. Keqing agreed to feed you lunch but insisted on going somewhere private. Your response was:]


    [1. Why go somewhere private? I want you to feed me in the ssroom, in front of everyone!]


    [2. Fine, we''ll go to the rooftop then. It''s usually empty there.]


    No way, even if it''s just a game, Lucas still has principles. Killing someone with psychological torture is too cruel.


    "Fine, we''ll go to the rooftop then. It''s usually empty there."


    [You and Keqing went to the rooftop. Although she disliked you, Keqing endured and fed you lunch. While enjoying the meal service, you chatted with Keqing. You felt that Keqing spoke more during this one lunchtime than in the past three yearsbined.]


    [Age 12: This year, it seemed you and Keqing had formed some sort of tacit understanding. Every noon, Keqing brought two lunch boxes to the rooftop, one specifically prepared for you. You never expected Keqing to not resist you, and sometimes you even saw a rare smile on her face. Your rtionship was very subtle; though you were known as "enemies" in the whole school, you were the only one she could talk to.]


    What a strange development... Lucas couldn''t help but be speechless for a moment. Could it be that Keqing poisoned the lunch to kill me slowly? No, no, no... that''s too dark and twisted.


    [Age 13: Keqing seemed much more cheerful. Being beautiful and academically excellent, she became the crush of many boys. However, the girls who once isted her, instead of reconciling with her, resented her even more for her poprity.]


    [One day after school, you saw Keqing being bullied by a group of girls. Your choices are:]


    [1. Join in bullying Keqing]


    [2. Pretend not to see it]


    [3. Walk over and say, "Get lost. Don''t you know that only I can bully this girl in this school?"]


    ----


    Author''s Note: Yes this is repost but long Chapters this time and consistent updates so make sure to give powerstones!

 Chapter 2: Villain Simulator, Ch 2

    <h4>Chapter 2: Viin Simtor, Ch 2</h4>


    Is this another one of those vile choices?


    Bullying Keqing together?


    Back when I was eight, even teaming up with a bunch of ruffians, all I could manage was to slightly overpower young Keqing. Now that she''s been training in martial arts for years, she''d beat me up easily.


    Besides, bullying girls alongside boys is one thing, but doing it with other girls? If I did that, I wouldn''t have the face to stay in school.


    "I choose the third option."


    [You step forward, push the girls away, and arrogantly say, "Get lost! Don''t you know that in this school, only I am allowed to bully her?"]


    [Because you are the school bully, the girls don''t dare to cause more trouble. They mutter a few words and then leave. Before leaving, the beautiful girl named Xiao Wan gives you and Keqing aplicated look, which you ignore.]


    Hey, pay attention to me!


    This girl looks like a typical female antagonist from a shoujo manga. Don''t just brush her off like that!


    [You reach out to help Keqing up, but she ps your hand away. With tears streaming down her face, she screams at you, "Stop pretending to be kind! Do you think I''ll forgive you because of this? Never! The reason I''m in this state is because of you! I hate you! I''ll hate you forever!"]


    Although these are just words, for some reason, Lucas felt as if he could really hear the girl''s curses.


    She''s right. No matter what I''ve done, the reason Keqing is isted and bullied now all stems from the punch I threw at her years ago.


    If it weren''t for that incident, with Keqing''s talent and personality, she would have be a well-liked and outstanding student.


    Even though Lucas and Keqing have formed some sort of "twisted" friendship, it doesn''t change the fact that I''ve always been a jerk, and Keqing has always hated me.


    [After saying that, Keqing runs away, covering her face. In her haste, she leaves one of her shoes behind. Your choices are...]


    [1. Chase after her and return the shoe]


    [2. Take Keqing''s shoe]


    [3. Use Keqing''s shoe for something else]


    Damn!


    The first two options are okay, but the third one is outright hentai! Of course, Lucas is torn about his choice.


    The first option is out. It''s simple: I''m ying the viin here. Choosing this feels like it would lead to redeeming myself.


    As for the third option, though I''m curious about what "reward" it might bring, it feels like it would steer the plot in a very strange direction.


    "I''ll take Keqing''s shoe."


    [You do nothing but pick up Keqing''s shoe.]


    [Reward: Keqing''s Shoe ¡Á1 (Reward can be received after the simtion ends)]


    What use is this reward?


    [The next day, when you arrive at school, you notice everyone giving you strange looks. To your shock, the school''s bulletin board and many other ces are stered with photos of Keqing feeding you lunch on the rooftop, apanied by derogatorybels like "slut" and "shameless."]


    [You have a bad feeling. Back in the ssroom, you see Xiao Wan and her group bullying Keqing again, holding those photos and sneering, "Look at this little slut fawning over him. It''s disgusting! Who knows what indecent things they''re doing on the rooftop every day!"]


    [Keqing keeps her head down, wiping away tears. Faced with this situation, your choices are...]


    [1. Kick Keqing while she''s down]


    [2. Beat up the girls bullying Keqing]


    [3. Stay silent and act like you didn''t see anything]


    Damn!


    My blood pressure is rising!


    Wait a minute...


    Lucas suddenly realizes something important.


    If bullying Keqing counts as "viiny," then beating up female ssmates should count as "viiny" too, right?


    Yeah, the system only requires me tomit evil acts, not specifying who the target should be.


    With this in mind, Lucas''s face lights up with a meaningful, wicked smile as he made a choice:


    "Beat up those girls bullying Keqing!"


    [Without hesitation, you raise your fist. Despite never having trained in martial arts, a move called "Charging Fist" suddenlyes to mind. With a powerful punch, you smash Xiao Wan''s pretty face, leaving it bloody.]


    [Reward: D-Rank Blind Box ¡Á5 (Reward can be received after the simtion ends)]


    As expected, hitting girls definitely counts as evil.


    [Your action scares the other girls bullying Keqing. One of them questions, "You''re a boy! How can you hit girls?" Your response is...]


    [1. Because I''m uncivilized]


    [2. Do I need a reason to hit you?]


    [3. Are girls more precious than boys? I punch girls too!]


    Honestly, fighting violence with violence is wrong.


    But damn, it feels good!


    "Are girls more precious than boys? I punch girls too!"


    [Reward: D-Rank Blind Box ¡Á3 (Reward can be received after the simtion ends)]


    [You don''t stop there and continue provocatively, "Are girls more precious than boys? I punch girls too!" The boys who usually follow you join the fight, turning the ssroom into a chaotic brawl. Even Keqing, finally snapping, starts fighting back against the girls who bullied her.]


    [You win the fight easily, but it results in severe consequences. All perpetrators, including you, receive stern warnings and a month-long suspension.]


    [Being a rich and spoiled brat, you don''t care and spend the month ying. However, when you return to school, you find out that Keqing has dropped out.]


    [It turns out that Xiao Wan and her group pinned the entire incident on Keqing. Coupled with the negative impact of those photos, Keqing had no choice but to leave school. Not only that, but her family was affected too, and they soon moved away from Liyue.]


    Keqing... She drop out of school?


    For some reason, upon seeing this line, Lucas felt a bit empty inside.


    Though he intended to stand up for Keqing, the oue was that Keqing had to drop out of school. Her family, unable to bear the pressure, left Liyue.


    Most students at Tianquan Academye from powerful families. Offending so many influential families made it impossible for Keqing''s family to stay in Liyue.


    At this time, Keqing had not yet be one of Liyue''s Qixing, the Yuheng Star, so she could only ept her fate.


    [Age 14: After Keqing left, you continued to act arrogantly at school, but somehow it felt less enjoyable. To your surprise, one day Xiao Wan confessed to you. It turns out she hated Keqing because of you. She liked you so much that she didn''t hold you ountable for hitting her but med everything on Keqing.]


    I see...


    No wonder this girl always targeted Keqing.


    No wonder, even after such a big incident, your punishment was just a month''s suspension.


    How much of a masochist is she?


    Now, Lucas finally understood why so many middle school girls were crazy about those delinquent boys.


    They were a bit abnormal.


    [Facing Xiao Wan''s confession, your response is:]


    [1. Sorry, I already like someone else.]


    [2. Want me to like you? Then be my dog.]


    [3. Get lost! I hate women the most!]


    Honestly, Lucas had no interest in a girl who bullied others, so he chose: "Option 3."


    [You yelled at Xiao Wan, "Get lost! I hate women the most!" Xiao Wan left in tears.]


    [Reward: Talent - Heavy Punch]


    [Effect: Increases damage to the opposite sex by 20%]


    [Age 15: You graduated.]


    [Age 16: You inherited the family business and started doing business.]


    [Age 17: On a whim, you had someone inquire about Keqing''s whereabouts, only to find out her family had fallen, her father had died, and Keqing herself was missing.]


    [Age 18: Using the connections you made at school and your ruthless methods, you quickly established yourself in Liyue Harbor.]


    [Age 19: Many people proposed to you, but you rejected them all.]


    [Age 20: The Abyss Order''s activities in Liyue became more frequent. Ningguang sent the Millelith to eliminate them, but they suffered heavy casualties. Survivors reported a highly skilled female officer with purple hair, about twenty years old.]


    [Age 21: The Abyss Order grew more rampant. The mysterious purple-haired officer, known as "Thunder Cmity Rakshasa" for her mastery of the Electro element, killed many of Liyue''s top fighters.]


    [Age 22: Families in Liyue Harbor were being exterminated, including Xiao Wan''s family. You realized that the targeted families were those of girls who had bullied Keqing.]


    [Age 23: You felt something was wrong and hired many bodyguards. One day, while riding in a sedan, you heard sounds of fighting outside. You got out to find your bodyguards dead. Nearby stood a familiar figure with a blood-stained sword, walking toward you.]


    You recognized her as Keqing, but her skin now had strange blue patterns, and one eye was blood-red. Seeing you, she smiled wickedly, "Lucas, it''s your turn!"


    Keqing, or rather Thunder Cmity Rakshasa, didn''t wait for you to speak and shed with her sword. You felt the world turn upside down as your head hit the ground. Thest thing you saw was a beautiful but bloodthirsty smile.


    [Simtion ended]


    [Cause of death: Killed by dark Keqing]


    [Overall rating: Don''t underestimate women]


    [Rewards have been sent and can be viewed anytime]


    What... what the heck!


    This ending left Lucas both amused and frustrated.


    Unexpectedly, in this life simtion, Keqing became dark after her misfortune and joined the Abyss Order.


    But ording to the game''s story, the Abyss Order members are mostly remnants of the ancient, destroyed nation of Khaenri''ah. How did a native of Liyue like Keqing join the Abyss Order and gain such power?


    Lucas couldn''t find a reasonable exnation. Thankfully, this was just a virtual life with no real-life consequences. Although he died young at 24, the rewards were pretty good.


    [Please choose one of the following talents as your inherent talent: "Evil Deeds," "Notorious," "Try Again"]


    [Inherent talents are effective in reality. Each time you start the life simtor, you can choose one inherent talent as your initial talent.]


    All three talents were purple, with no obvious ranking.


    But in terms of versatility, "Try Again" seemed the best.


    This "Viin Life Simtor" was full of malice; one wrong choice could lead to death. It was harder than some prank galgames.


    So having a chance to revive each time was very useful.


    [Acquired inherent talent "Try Again"]


    [Try Again (Purple): You can avoid death once, getting another chance (usable once per simtion) in reality, it has a one-month cooldown)]


    What!


    Lucas didn''t expect this talent to work in real life too, not just once, but with a one-month cooldown. For a life-saving talent, a long cooldown was understandable.


    As for the remaining rewards, he received nine D-grade blind boxes.


    [D-grade loot box: Opening it grants a D-grade reward (3 boxes of the same grade can bebined into a higher-grade box)]


    This is great!


    "Combine directly into three C-grade boxes! Then into one B-grade box!"


    All in! Go all in!


    [Opening B-grade loot box...]


    -----

 Chapter 3: Villain Simulator, Ch 3

    <h4>Chapter 3: Viin Simtor, Ch 3</h4>


    [Open B-Level Loot Box, Congrattions, You''ve Obtained "umted Virtue System"!]


    [umted Virtue System: Whenever you do a good deed or receive someone''s gratitude, you can earn "Virtue Points". Once these points umte to a certain level, you can receive rewards.]


    [Note: The system only works in reality.]


    A Loot box... Can it even yield a system?


    Moreover, it''s theplete opposite of the "Evil Life Simtor"¡ªthe "umted Virtue System".


    So, in the simted life, I have to be as bad as possible, but in reality, I have to be a good person.


    Although Lucas often helps others, he doesn''t do these things to get system rewards, but because it''s his nature.


    To put it nicely, Lucas is kind-hearted. To put it bluntly, he''s a bit of a pushover.


    In novels andics, he might be that kind of gentle male protagonist.


    But since doing good deeds can earn rewards, it''s a great thing, much better than forcing himself to be a bad person.


    Moreover, even if the things in the simted life are fictional, Lucas would inevitably feel some guilt. If he canpensate through the umted Virtue System, it would be a good thing.


    "Rakani Chu!"


    "Makabaka!"


    At this moment, a strange low growl suddenly came from behind Lucas. He turned around and saw two eerie creatures with dark skin and white masks. One held a wooden club, and the other a torch, both slowly approaching him with a hostile aura.


    Hilichurls?


    Having some knowledge of the game "Genshin Impact," Lucas naturally recognized the name of these monsters immediately. As monsters present throughout almost the entire game, from the lowest-level Hilichurls to the rather troublesome Hilichurl Chieftains, they are the most frequently encountered enemies by yers.


    However, for Lucas, who had just crossed over, facing these suddenly appearing enemies made him a bit nervous.


    "Jinei Nima !"


    At this moment, one of the Hilichurls, waving its wooden club and shouting gibberish, charged at Lucas.


    Although Lucas was usually kind and never fought, in reality, he had learned some martial arts from his grandfather for self-defense.


    Of course, he learned these things mainly to make the old man happy. After all, in his eyes, his grandfather''s so-called "techniques" were no different from Master Ma''s "Five-Linked Lightning Whip."


    But seeing the Hilichurl attacking, Lucas instinctively used those moves. He sidestepped to dodge the club''s swing and thennded a solid punch on the Hilichurl''s chest.


    "Charging Fist!"


    Maybe because this was the only "active skill" he knew, Lucas automatically used this skill.


    Although the essence of "Charging Fist" is "the more damage taken, the harder you hit," for an enemy like the Hilichurl, which has low defense and no armor, Lucas''s punch broke its chest bones with a crack, sending its thin body flying like a kite with a broken string, crashing hard onto the ground.


    The Hilichurl struggled for a moment before its body stiffened, then turned into ck mist and disappeared into the ground.


    [Killed a monster, gained 10 Virtue Points]


    Can you even gain Virtue Points by killing monsters?


    It seems the so-called "umted Virtue System" is still based on benefiting humanity. After all, killing isn''t exactly a virtuous act.


    But Lucas didn''t bother thinking about theseplicated issues; being kind doesn''t mean being weak.


    Seeing itspanion killed with one punch, the other Hilichurl lost its arrogance and tried to flee. Lucas swiftly took two steps forward and punched it to death.


    [Killed a monster, gained 10 Virtue Points]


    Looking at the distant silhouette of Liyue Harbor, Lucas started his journey of traveling and fighting monsters.


    ...


    Meanwhile, in a bedroom of a mansion in Liyue Harbor,


    "Kill... I''ll kill you!"


    A purple-haired girl suddenly sat up from her bed. She looked about seventeen years old, with bright eyes and white teeth, and a wlessplexion. However, she looked extremely pale, her snow-white cheeks covered in sweat.


    She was Keqing, one of the Qixing of Liyue.


    She had just woken up from a very strange dream.


    In the dream, she returned to her childhood and met a bad boy named "Lucas". This boy caused her to be isted at school, expelled, and even her family was affected, forcing them to leave Liyue.


    After leaving Liyue, Keqing''s family fell into decline, her parents died in misery, and finally, unable to bear the pressure, she chose to jump off a cliff to end her life.


    Unexpectedly, after jumping off the cliff, Keqing didn''t die but was saved by the Abyss Order. They promised her great power in exchange for her loyalty.


    Perhaps because she had experienced life and death or because she wanted revenge, the despairing Keqing agreed to the Abyss Order''s "deal".


    After a series of painful transformations, Keqing finally obtained great power. She became a high-ranking officer of the Abyss Order and sought revenge against the city of Liyue, which had once "abandoned" her.


    At this time, Keqing''s strength was unparalleled. Her innate talent was extremely high, and now, after undergoing the Abyss transformation and wielding the power of darkness, she had surpassed the Qixing of Liyue.


    As the demoness "Thunder Cmity Rakshasa", she destroyed all the families of the children who had bullied her back then. The one responsible for all this, Lucas, was saved forst.


    Just as Keqing was about to decapitate Lucas, she suddenly regained a bit of consciousness and was so terrified by the horrific scene that she woke up.


    "Strange..."


    Keqing wiped the cold sweat from her forehead and murmured to herself, "Why am I having such dreams?"


    The version of herself in the dream was vastly different from her real self. Bloodthirsty, brutal, and indiscriminately killing the innocent...


    In the dream, she had turned into the viin she despised the most. However, she couldn''t entirely me herself; after all, going through so many things and falling into darkness was inevitable.


    "But..." For some reason, there was a spark in Keqing''s eyes, "The me in the dream was so strong. At the very least, I should have the power equivalent to that of a deity''s servant, right?"


    Currently, Keqing''s strength, with her Vision, was already at the top level, but there was still a significant gappared to her corrupted self in the dream.


    Generally, the details of a dream would quickly fade away after waking up, and the characters in the dream would be hard to remember. But strangely enough, Keqing clearly remembered the face of a person named "Lucas," even though she was certain she had never met this person in real life.


    "Hmph..." Keqing snorted coldly and muttered to herself, "This person named "Lucas" his actions are despicable. It''s a good thing he''s just a dream character. If I met such a person in reality, I''d teach him a good lesson!"


    ...


    "Achoo!"


    At this moment, Lucas, who had not yet entered Liyue Harbor, inexplicably sneezed. He had no idea that he had already been remembered with hatred by a significant figure from Liyue Harbor.


    "How much farther do I have to walk..."


    Lucas, already exhausted, sighed, "Why does it feel like I''m not getting any closer?"


    [At your current pace, it will take about three more days to reach Liyue Harbor.]


    "Do you have a navigation function too?" Lucas frowned, "By the way, isn''t there a teleport waypoint in the game? Can you teleport me directly?"


    [This function is not yet activated...]


    "Ugh..." Lucas said helplessly, "Can you open the character simtion again? Maybe I can get a reward for fast travel."


    [The character simtion refreshes daily at midnight. Please wait patiently.]


    "Help... Help!"


    Just as Lucas was about toin, he suddenly heard a cry for help from behind the bushes.


    Startled, Lucas rushed towards the direction of the cry without hesitation.


    Pushing through the bushes, he immediately saw a massive figure standing like a tower not far away, holding a giant axe that was two to three meters long.


    The creature looked somewhat like a Hilichurl but was several timesrger. It was a Mitachurl, an intermediate monster among Hilichurls!


    In front of the Mitachurl were several wagons and people dressed as merchants. Lying around them were a few armored warriors, wounded and holding weapons.


    Unlike in the game, where Mitachurls were not a big deal to yers controlling powerful "Genshin" characters, these monsters were quite troublesome for ordinary adventurers and caravan guards.


    "Beast! Stop hurting people!"


    Without hesitation, Lucas stepped forward and punched towards the Mitachurl''s chest.


    "Charging Fist!"


    The Mitachurl didn''t even bother to dodge, but to its surprise, it felt a tremendous force hit its chest, causing it to stagger back a few steps.


    Indeed...


    While his Charging Fist could easily take down a Hilichurl, it wasn''t enough to defeat a much stronger Mitachurl in one blow.


    Moreover, the punch seemed to have angered the Mitachurl. After retreating a few steps, it stabilized itself and swung its giant axe towards Lucas.


    Lucas couldn''t dodge in time, and the giant axe struck his back, causing him to spit out a mouthful of blood.


    [Heroic Intent umtion: 50%]


    The other effect of the Charging Fist was that it could umte "Heroic Intent" when attacked, increasing its damage. Gritting his teeth and enduring the immense pain, Lucas struck the Mitachurl again.


    "Charging Fist!"


    ----

 Chapter 4: Villain Simulator, Ch 4

    <h4>Chapter 4: Viin Simtor, Ch 4</h4>


    A brilliant golden light instantly gathered on Lucas''s fist as he struck directly towards the chest of the Hilichurl Berserker. Perhaps instinctively sensing the danger of this punch, the Hilichurl Berserker hurriedly put its giant axe in front of itself. However, Lucas''s fist did not stop and smashed right into the axe''s de.


    With a crisp "snap," a crack appeared on the giant axe in the Hilichurl Berserker''s hand. The look in its eyes under the mask showed a trace of disbelief. Before it could react, the giant axe shattered into countless pieces.


    Lucas''s fist went straight through the axe and fiercely hit the Hilichurl Berserker''s face, shattering its mask along with the impact. In almost an instant, the previously arrogant Hilichurl Berserker was lying on the ground, devoid of any sound.


    Seeing the Hilichurl Berserker''s body dissipate into ck smoke, Lucas finally breathed a deep sigh of relief.


    [Savior of the caravan, you have earned 200 Virtue Points]


    As expected, the points not only came from defeating the Hilichurl Berserker but also from saving the passing caravan.


    "Thank you, young hero, for saving us!" A middle-aged man with a small mustache patted the dirt off his clothes, took a step forward, and said, "If it weren''t for you, we would have been in big trouble."


    "It is only right to help when seeing injustice," Lucas nodded politely. "But if you knew the road was dangerous, why didn''t you bring more guards?"


    "You may not know," the caravan leader shook his head, "I''ve traveled this route hundreds of times, and usually, we only encounter some troublesome Hilichurls at most. I never expected to run into a Hilichurl Berserker this time... I''ve heard people say that there have been strange urrences with the monsters near Liyue Harbor recently, but I didn''t believe it until we encountered this."


    "I see..." Lucas nodded thoughtfully.


    "By the way, I''m Zhang Luo, a merchant from Liyue Harbor," Zhang Luo patted his chest and asked, "May I know the young hero''s name?"


    "Lucas Walker," he replied directly.


    "Your name suits you," Zhang Luo took a money pouch from his coat and handed it to Lucas. "Here is a token of my gratitude, please ept it."


    At that moment, a system prompt appeared before Lucas.


    [1. ept the reward]


    [2. Politely decline]


    Although Lucas wanted to ept the money, in typical RPG games, not epting money usually leads to extra rewards.


    "I appreciate the gesture, but money is not necessary. I didn''t help you for the money," Lucas shook his head.


    [You have earned 200 Virtue Points]


    Sure enough, refusing the money earned him extra Virtue Points. Generally speaking, system points are usually more valuable than Mora.


    Hearing this, Zhang Luo''s face showed even more admiration. He asked, "Since that''s the case, why are you here, young hero?"


    "I''m from a distant ce, seeking opportunities in Liyue Harbor," Lucas made up an excuse. "I didn''t expect to run into you here."


    Upon hearing this, Zhang Luo''s eyes lit up. "In that case, why not let me introduce you to my employer? With your skills, you should be able to find a good job there."


    "Your employer?" Lucas asked curiously.


    "Yes," Zhang Luo replied with a proud smile, "My employer is well-known in Liyue Harbor, the esteemed Ke family. Our youngdy is Keqing, one of the Liyue Qixing."


    Such a coincidence? Lucas nodded, "Then I''ll trouble you, Uncle Zhang, to introduce me."


    At the moment, Lucas had no ns for his future in Teyvat. If he could find a job with the Keqing family, it wouldn''t be a bad thing. After all, they were a prominent family and would at least provide food and amodation.


    Of course, this was partly because Lucas felt a bit guilty towards Keqing. Even just seeing her happy in reality would be afort to him.


    "Great! That''s wonderful!" Zhang Luo was overjoyed. "In that case, please travel with us. By carriage, we should reach Liyue Harbor by tomorrow."


    "Then I gratefully ept your offer."


    Lucas didn''t refuse such a good opportunity. Zhang Luo, treating his "savior" with great respect, not only arranged a carriage for him but also provided avish meal.


    Soon, it waste at night. As Lucasy in the carriage Zhang Luo had prepared for him, the system''s voice reappeared.


    [System reminder: The cooldown time for the "Life Simtor" has ended. Would you like to start a new simtion?]


    "Start."


    It is worth mentioning that when the "Life Simtor" starts, time freezes. However, this time freeze applies to Lucas as well, so it''s impossible to use the system to stop time and do "bad things."


    [Receiving instructions, the "Life Simtor" is about to start]


    [Please choose three talents from the following. After the simtion, one will be randomly retained as a permanent talent]


    [Hot-Tempered (White): You get angry more easily than others]


    [Skillful in Wordy (Green): You are very good at using idioms]


    [Humble Background (White): You will be born into a poor family]


    [Brilliant Mind (Blue): You are very intelligent and good at learning]


    [Respected by Others (Blue): You are more likely to gain others'' respect]


    [Mischievous Shiba Inu (Purple): Every time you do something a Mischievous Shiba Inu likes to do, your abilities will improve]


    [Angry Shiba Inu (Blue): The enemy of the Mischievous Shiba Inu, you gain strength by not doing what the Mischievous Shiba Inu likes to do]


    [Cat Lover (White): You have no resistance to cats]


    [Violent Streak (White): You prefer to solve problems with violence]


    [Sister Complex (White): You really like your sister]


    (AN: Just in case you forgot the talent ranks are low to high from: white,green,blue,purple,gold)


    Some inexplicable talents appeared again...


    First of all, the inherent talent [Try Again] is definitely a must-have, as it''s a life-saving talent, not something to joke about. As for other talents...


    Although a purple talent appeared, this [Mischievous Shiba Inu] feels very suspicious no matter how you look at it. Anyway, let''s choose it and try it out.


    The biggest advantage of the [Life Simtor] is that it has nothing to do with reality, and you can let yourself gopletely, right?


    "I choose [Mischievous Shiba Inu] and [Brilliant Mind], and add the inherent talent [Try Again]."


    [Talent selectionplete, generating character temte]


    [Life simtion about to begin]


    [0 years old: You were born in a schrly family in Liyue Harbor. Your father is a highly respected teacher.]


    This time... it feels pretty good.


    If my father is a teacher, he might teach me to be a very righteous person, right?


    [1 year old: During your first birthday, you grabbed a book, making your father very happy as he believes you have the makings of a schr.]


    I say, isn''t this birthday grab a recurring option in every life simtion? For example, through the items grabbed, you can roughly predict the career path in this simtion. If I''m not wrong, this time I might follow in my father''s footsteps and be a teacher? Such a reliable profession surely wouldn''t lead to a viin''s path, right?


    [2 years old: You showed greater intelligence than other children. Your father started teaching you to read and recognize characters early (Talent [Brilliant Mind] activated).]


    [3 years old: You can already write more than a thousand characters.]


    [4 years old: You can recite "Three Character ssic" and "Thousand Character ssic" by heart.]


    [5 years old: You became known as a prodigy in Liyue Harbor. Even Ningguang, the Tianquan, came to test you and recognized your intelligence.]


    [6 years old: You often get close to the maids at home and find that after each interaction, you feel veryfortable and your mind bes clearer (Talent [Mischievous Shiba Inu] activated).]


    Stop! He''s only six years old!


    [7 years old: Your father found out about your interactions with the maids. You thought he would be angry, but he didn''t mind, thinking a talented person should be a bit more yful.]


    Hey! What happened to the highly respected teacher in Liyue Harbor? This is too unreliable, right?


    [8 years old: You find that you prefer older womenpared to girls your age.]


    Something''s not right... I didn''t choose the [Sister Complex] talent, did I? System,e out and exin!


    [In each life simtion, your preferences may change due to various factors, it''s not my fault.]


    So, in this simtion, the character is naturally inclined to like older women?


    [9 years old: To provide education to more children, your father, with Ningguang''s investment, established a school called "Tianquan Academy" and became its principal.]


    Goodness... Even in different timelines, Tianquan Academy still exists? However, this time, I shouldn''t be a school bully, right?


    [10 years old: Xiangling, the daughter of Chef Mao from Wanmin Restaurant, confessed to you, but you rejected her.]


    [11 years old: You saw a silver-haired beauty on the street and couldn''t forget her. For three days, you couldn''t eat well. You searched the streets where you saw her, but found nothing.]


    Wow, at eleven years old, I''m already developing into a hopeless romantic?


    [12 years old: Although your father is the principal of Tianquan Academy, you took the entrance exam like any other student and scored the highest marks.]


    [13 years old: You excelled in both character and academics, quickly bing a model student.]


    [14 years old: After a round of elections, you became the student council president. While organizing a parent-teacher meeting, you unexpectedly discovered that the silver-haired woman from three years ago was actually the "aunt" of a student named Chongyun. Her name is Shenhe.]


    Shenhe? In the game lore, Shenhe is indeed Chongyun''s aunt. But if I remember correctly, Shenhe should be training under Cloud Retainer. How could she attend a parent-teacher meeting as Chongyun''s guardian?


    Sensing my confusion, the system replied:


    [In each life simtion, even without the host''s intervention, the worldview might change.]


    So, in this timeline, Shenhe stayed with Chongyun for some reason?


    [You developed an unprecedented infatuation with Shenhe. A voice in your head told you that you must have her, no matter the cost. At this moment, you decided...]


    [1. n meticulously to win Shenhe step by step.]


    [2. Give up on this seemingly impossible rtionship.]


    Hey, hey! This development is too strange! Let''s not even discuss Shenhe''s age and status difference with me. nning to pursue a ssmate''s guardian at fourteen is too much!


    No, no! "I choose the second option!"


    [Are you sure?]


    "What else? Trying to woo a ssmate''s guardian is too outrageous!"


    [You couldn''t ovee societal prejudices and gave up on pursuing Shenhe. However, your constant longing for her took a toll on your health, leading to your eventual death from a lovesickness-induced illness.]


    [Achievement unlocked: Hopeless Romantic]


    [Reward: C-level blind box x1]


    Thank you very much! Dying like this? Could it get any more absurd?


    [Host deceased. Would you like to activate the talent "Try Again" to challenge life once more?]


    "Yes..." Helplessly, might as well give it another shot. I want to see how the story unfolds with the other option!


    [You developed an unprecedented infatuation with Shenhe. A voice in your head told you that you must have her, no matter the cost. At this moment, you decided...]


    [1. n meticulously to win Shenhe step by step.]


    [2. Give up on this seemingly impossible rtionship.]


    "I choose... the first one."


    -----

 Chapter 5: Villain Simulator, Ch 5

    <h4>Chapter 5: Viin Simtor, Ch 5</h4>


    [To win over the woman named Shenhe, you n to use any method at your disposal. By reviewing academic information, you have learned about Chongyun''s family situation.]


    [Chongyunes from a renowned exorcist family in Liyue Harbor and possesses an extremely rare pure Yang body. During his childhood, his parents tragically died during an exorcism mission. His aunt, Shenhe, took on the responsibility of being his guardian and raised him. Although Shenhe is technically Chongyun''s aunt, given their age difference, she appears more like his sister.]


    [Based on current information, how do you n to pursue Shenhe?]


    [1. Directly pursue Shenhe with an aggressive approach.]


    [2. Start with Chongyun and gradually get closer to Shenhe.]


    Direct pursuit seems very unlikely to seed. After all, not only is there a nearly ten-year age difference between them, but the generational gap is also hard to bridge.


    Sorry, but to get the reward...


    "I choose the second option."


    [You decide to start with Chongyun. Using your wit and intelligence, you quickly devise a meticulous n.]


    [At 15 years old, you used your position as the student council president to gather a group of privileged students and offered them favors to help execute your n. With a mix of threats and incentives, they agreed to your request.]


    [You had them bully Chongyun, knowing that his gentle nature would make him an easy target. At the right moment, you stepped in, driving away the bullies. Chongyun did not realize this was all orchestrated and was deeply grateful, thus beginning your friendship with him.]


    Sorry, Chongyun! You want to be my good friend, but I want to be your uncle-inw!


    [Your friendship with Chongyun quickly developed. He even invited you to his home, where you met Shenhe again. Despite the years, her appearance remained as enchanting as when you first saw her.]


    [You noticed Shenhe''s deep affection for Chongyun, but she was cold towards others. Even though you had once helped Chongyun, she did not warm up to you. However, her aloofness only fueled your desire to win her over.]


    [At 16 years old, a year had passed since you befriended Chongyun. He trusted you deeply and even confided small secrets, such as his susceptibility to madness when exposed to heat due to his pure Yang body. You nned to exploit this.]


    [You repeated your previous tactic, calling on the same group of bullies you had once used. Over the past year, you had covertly provided them with benefits and assistance. On the surface, as the student council president, you appeared to oppose them, but secretly, you were closely allied.]


    What a crew of scoundrels!


    [Previously, in the simtion, you were just an arrogant young master, but now you have be a hypocritical "model student."]


    [One day after school, you and Chongyun were surrounded by the bullies. At your signal, they attacked Chongyun with pepper spray. As expected, this triggered Chongyun''s pure Yang body, sending him into a frenzy, and he retaliated fiercely.]


    [In his madness, Chongyun was incredibly ferocious. The bullies were no match for him and were severely beaten.]


    [The incident caused a huge uproar. Chongyun, for severely injuring his ssmates, faced expulsion and possibly juvenile detention.]


    [Upon hearing this, Shenhe immediately sought your help. She knew you were the student council president and the principal''s son. If you intervened, Chongyun''s punishment could be reduced significantly.]


    [Over the past year, you had often visited Chongyun''s home, meeting Shenhe many times. But you had never seen her so anxious before. Although not Chongyun''s biological mother, she had raised him and considered him her son.]


    [Sitting at your desk, you didn''t rush to handle Chongyun''s situation. Instead, you told Shenhe you had fallen in love with her at first sight. Shenhe, biting her lip, asked, "What do you mean?"]


    [Your answer to Shenhe''s question is...]


    [1. I can help Chongyun, but you must agree to be my lover.]


    [2. Shenhe, you don''t want Chongyun expelled or sent to juvenile detention, do you?]


    [3. Spend one night with me, and I''ll make sure Chongyun is safe.]


    As expected, all three options use "Chongyun" as leverage to threaten Shenhe. However, the tone and approach differ, potentially leading to different oues.


    The first one seems too gentle; given Shenhe''s strong-willed nature, she likely won''t submit easily. The third one seems too blunt, almost like forcing the issue... If it came to that, Shenhe could easily overpower you. You need to be strategic with every choice.


    "I choose the second option."


    [With a meaningful smile, you said, "Shenhe, you don''t want Chongyun expelled or sent to juvenile detention, do you?"]


    [Hearing this, Shenhe''s initially firm attitude softened. She knew that if Chongyun were sent to juvenile detention, his future and reputation would be ruined, and the family would disown him.]


    [Shenhe sighed deeply, frowning, and said, "For Chongyun... I will do anything."]


    [Nodding, you replied, "Chongyun will face a three-month suspension. After that, his fate will be decided. Your actions during these three months will determine his future."]


    [Faced with your almost tant threat, Shenhe, although very angry, nodded and said, "As long as you can ensure Chongyun''s future is secure, I... I will do anything for you."]


    [You didn''t expect your n to go so smoothly. Looking at the beautiful woman you''ve admired for a long time, you feel a surge of excitement. You say:]


    [1. "There''s plenty of space under my desk."]


    [2. "Do you see that sofa over there?"]


    [3. "My office also has a one-way mirror."]


    Is this really the student council''s office?


    Right now, Lucas is very suspicious. When this office was built, was there some other purpose in mind from the beginning?


    Three choices, three methods. Generally speaking, different choices can lead to different developments. However, since Shenhe has alreadypletelypromised, it means that whatever choice he makes shouldn''t be a problem; only the process will differ.


    [What''s wrong, having trouble deciding? Don''t worry, you have a month. It''s not like this is your only chance.]


    "Even if you say that, honestly... does it really make a difference what I choose?" Lucas frowned and said, "No matter what I choose, it''s just a different piece of text."


    Moreover, usually, the text presented by the system is straightforward and leaves little to the imagination.


    [Just choose, and you''ll see.]


    For some reason, the system''s response made Lucas picture Shenhe''s face in his mind.


    "I... I''ll choose the first one."


    [As I guessed...]


    It''s just a system, don''t try to figure out the host''s thoughts!


    [You patted your desk and smiled, "There''s plenty of space under my desk."]


    [Upon hearing this, Shenhe''s pale cheeks blushed even more. Shenhe, who has always been a lofty flower admired by many in the family, is admired for her looks, figure, and strength. Many men have courted her, but she has never even looked at them. Yet today, she has no choice but to be coerced by a boy much younger than herself.]


    [Seeing Shenhe hesitate, you frowned slightly and said, "What''s wrong, Miss Shenhe? You wouldn''t just talk without action, would you? You should know, if I wanted to, I could decide Chongyun''s fate today."]


    [Upon hearing this, Shenhe dared not hesitate any longer and had topromise.]


    Is this really me?


    Looking at these lines, Lucas''s mood was veryplicated. Luckily, these are just words, so the guilt in his heart was somewhat alleviated. Unfortunately, these are just words, so Lucas can only use his imagination to picture Shenhe yielding in front of him.


    Yes, the most contradictory thing in Lucas''s mind is that even though he knows his simted self is terrible, as a man, he can''t help but feel a bit envious of his simted self.


    [Sensing the host''s strong emotional fluctuations, switching to "Immersive Mode."]


    "Immersive Mode?" Lucas was startled and hurriedly said, "What the heck..."


    Before he could finish speaking, he suddenly felt a darkness before his eyes. When he opened them again, the scene in front of him hadpletely changed.


    Now, whaty before Lucas was no longer the slightly cramped carriage but a rather spacious office. Bookshelves lined up like walls, neatly filled with books. The exquisite one-way ss clearly showed students and teachers walking in the hallway outside. Not far away, a beautiful leather sofa looked veryfortable for resting.


    Of course, the most eye-catching thing was the oversized desk in front of him. The ebony surface was dark and shiny, seemingly just waxed, reflecting a slightly young but very familiar face.


    That was... his own face!


    That face looked no more than sixteen or seventeen years old, but it had a maturity beyond its years. He wore a pair of delicate gold-rimmed sses, clearly a model student.


    Is this... me?


    What on earth is going on?


    Lucas lightly pinched his cheek. It hurt a bit, which meant this wasn''t a dream.


    Could this be the so-called "Immersive Mode" the system mentioned earlier?


    Just as Lucas was pondering, he suddenly heard a slightly nervous voice:


    "I... I''m starting."


    ----

 Chapter 6: Villain Simulator, Ch 6

    <h4>Chapter 6: Viin Simtor, Ch 6</h4>


    Lucas''s heart was startled, and he quickly looked down. He saw a cold and beautiful silver-haired woman staring at him with aplicated expression. As soon as their eyes met, she immediately looked away. It was Shen He!


    In an instant, Lucas seemed to understand. Could it be that the so-called "immersive mode" allows his consciousness to directly enter the body of a character in the simted life and experience what the character goes through firsthand?


    [Correct understanding!]


    [As a yer of the "Life Simtor," you can switch between "text mode" and "immersive mode" at any time. Neither mode affects the game''s storyline.]


    [In "immersive mode," you can take actions within the limits allowed by the system. If your actions contradict the storyline, the system will forcibly adjust them to fit the game''s plot.]


    So even in "immersive mode," I can''t fully control the character and only experience the current character''s "feelings"?


    [That''s right, this is to prevent program errors.]


    Lucas slowly closed his eyes, starting to feel the experience brought by the "Life Simtor." Although what he was doing was undoubtedly a "bad thing," as an "outsider," he had no way to change it.


    It must be said that Lucas in the simtion liked ShenHe for a reason. Perhaps because of years of cultivation, ShenHe looked much younger than her actual age. Even if she were said to be a senior in school, few would doubt it.


    At this moment, good and bad, right and wrong, seemed... no longer that important.


    Lucas leaned back in his chair, the leather creaking softly under him. His fingers drummed a nervous rhythm on the armrest as he watched Shen He.


    She was crouched between his legs, her long silver hair cascading like a veil around her face. Her hands were on his thighs, her touch hesitant.


    Suddenly, the door handle jiggled, causing both of them to freeze. Lucas''s eyes widened in panic as he recognized the sound.


    "Sorry to interrupt..."


    At this time, the office door suddenly opened, and a tall, elegant silver-haired woman walked in. She wore a ck and yellow cheongsam, entuating her slender yet curvaceous figure.


    Although Lucas was just a student, as the student council president and the son of the principal of Tianquan Academy, even teachers had to knock before entering the student council office. There were only two people who could enter without knocking: one was Lucas''s father, the principal, and the other was Ningguang, the Tianquan star among the Liyue Qixing.


    Of course, there were few ces in Liyue Harbor where Ningguang needed to knock. She had admired Lucas''s intelligence since he was young. However, this time, there was aplicated look on Ningguang''s usually smiling face.


    "Ning... Ningguang? Why... why are you here?" Seeing the unexpected visitor, Lucas became very nervous. ShenHe, who also heard Ningguang''s voice, stopped her actions out of tension.


    Generally, when someone of Ningguang''s status and as an elder suddenly visits, Lucas would stand up to show respect. But now, it was impossible for him to stand up. Ningguang seemed preupied and didn''t notice Lucas''s polite but stationary posture.


    She sat in front of Lucas and frowned slightly, "It''s about the recent violent incident where thirteen students were seriously injured, all from wealthy families. Do you know how much effort I put into smoothing things over?"


    "Thank you, Ningguang," Lucas nodded quickly. "I didn''t expect Chongyun to do something so crazy."


    "I know it must be hard for you since he''s your good friend," Ningguang sighed. "But given the severity of the incident, he will have to face appropriate punishment."


    The desk suddenly shook lightly, and a pen holder fell to the floor with a "thud."


    "What''s happening?" Ningguang, cautious by nature, sensed something amiss. "Why did the desk suddenly move?"


    "I... I identally had a leg cramp!" Lucas quickly exined.


    "You''re so young, how can you have so many health issues?" Ningguang showed a doting smile. "How about I massage it for you?"


    Lucas, who Ningguang watched grow up and treated almost like a son, was very nervous. She had gone to great lengths to handle the violent incident not just to protect Tianquan Academy but also to shield Lucas from the consequences.


    "No... no need!" Cold sweat broke out on Lucas''s forehead. "I... I can do it myself!"


    If Ningguang were to massage him now, his secret would be exposed. If she found out that her well-behaved Lucas was threatening a student''s parent in the office, he would be expelled even before Chongyun.


    "Oh, I almost forgot, you''re grown up now," Ningguangughed. "Okay, you do it yourself then."


    Ningguang then bent down to pick up the pen holder, but she noticed something strange under the desk.


    "What is this?"


    Under the table, a red string peeked out. Ningguang, puzzled, grabbed it casually, intending to pull it out. But to her surprise, the string seemed to be tied to something, making it impossible to move.


    This red string was tied to Shenhe. Shenhe was born with a unique constitution called "Lone Star Cmity," which made it hard for her to suppress her violent tendencies, bringing bad luck to those around her. Fortunately, when she was born, an immortal named Cloud Retainer happened to pass by and used special magic to bind Shenhe''s violent tendencies with this red string. Shenhe had worn this string for over twenty years, never once taking it off.


    At this moment, the string Ningguang had grabbed was precisely the one tied to Shenhe. Shenhe and Lucas''s expressions changed instantly.


    Lucas moved his hand gently caressing Shenhe''s head, urging her to do something about the string.


    As Ningguang was about to discover the peculiarity of the string, Shenhe acted decisively. With a sudden burst of ice in her hand, she conjured an ice de and, with a swift motion, cut the string Ningguang was holding.


    This happened in an instant. When Ningguang pulled the string again, she only managed to pull out a four or five-inch piece.


    "This red string..." Ningguang ced the string on the table, puzzled. "Why is it under your desk?"


    Although Ningguang had never seen this string before, as the Tianquan of Liyue Qixing, she was knowledgeable and immediately sensed the string''s immortal aura, realizing it wasn''t an ordinary object.


    "This is..." Lucas quickly thought of an excuse. "My girlfriend''s bracelet. She must have identally left it here."


    Hearing this, Shenhe''s face turned red under the table, and she gave Lucas a resentful look. Who is your girlfriend!


    "Oh, so you have a girlfriend now?" Ningguang wasn''t surprised. As the student council president of Tianquan Academy, Lucas was excellent in both character and academics, with a well-off family and good looks.


    Many girls at school had long been infatuated with him. However, regardless of how outstanding or beautiful the girls were, Lucas always politely declined their confessions. Ningguang knew of so many girls who had been rejected by Lucas that she couldn''t even count them on two hands.


    Of course, this was because Lucas in this life simtor was only interested in older women and had no interest in girls his age. His "love" for Shenhe was unique, and he had little interest in any other women.


    "Yes... that''s right..." Lucas nodded, smiling awkwardly. "Please, Ningguang, don''t tell my parents."


    Although Lucas''s parents were very open-minded and never opposed him having rtionships during school, this "girlfriend" was fictitious. He couldn''t possibly tell Ningguang and his parents that his "girlfriend" was actually a ssmate''s parent.


    "Not telling is fine," Ningguang said, squinting slightly. "But I''m very curious, what kind of girl caught your eye?"


    "Her?" Lucas hesitated for a moment before replying. "She is a very special girl, like a white lotus on a snowy mountain, unattainable. But I know that beneath her cold exterior lies a heart burning with passion. Being able to be with her is the happiest thing in my life."


    Listening to Lucas''s words, Shenhe''s feelings wereplicated. Honestly, she didn''t dislike Lucas before today. Because he was a good friend of Chongyun, Shenhe even felt a bit of gratitude and affection for him. However, these feelings were like those of an elder sister towards a younger brother.


    Now, seeing Lucas''s hidden, malevolent nature, Shenhe couldn''t reconcile this with the polite and respectful boy who used to call her "Aunt Shenhe." It was as if a demon''s heart was lurking within him.


    "It seems she is a very remarkable girl," Ningguang nodded, smiling. "Rest assured, I won''t tell your parents. This will be our little secret."


    Ningguang winked yfully. Who would have thought that the mature andposed Tianquan would have such a yful side? Of course, Ningguang only showed this side to someone she knew very well.


    Honestly, in terms of appearance and figure, Ningguang was not inferior to Shenhe. She was also the type of "older sister" Lucas liked. Why did he choose Shenhe over Ningguang? That remained unknown.


    Lucas secretly thanked his lucky stars that the simtor''s version of himself wasn''t interested in Ningguang. Otherwise, scheming against her would have likely resulted in his own demise. In terms of stars, Shenhe was a five-star, while Ningguang was a four-star. In terms of scheming, Shenhe was at most a two or three-star, but Ningguang was definitely more than a five-star.


    "Thank you, Ningguang," Lucas finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Alright, I need to leave now," Ningguang said, standing up. "You''d better keep a low profile for a while to avoid trouble from the victims'' parents."


    "I will," Lucas nodded. "Also, I need to ask you a small favor."


    Ningguang seemed to have already guessed what Lucas wanted to say and sighed. "It''s about Chongyun, isn''t it?"


    "Yes," Lucas nced at Shenhe before saying seriously. "It wasn''t Chongyun''s fault. I hope you can help mediate and at least get a lighter punishment."


    "I''ll try my best," Ningguang sighed. "But it''s not as simple as you think. Be prepared. I''ll talk to the parents, but getting forgiveness from the victims is the most important part."


    ----

 Chapter 7: Villain Simulator, Ch 7

    <h4>Chapter 7: Viin Simtor, Ch 7</h4>


    "By the way," Ningguang, just about to stand up and leave, suddenly said, "When you have time, let me meet your little girlfriend? I''m really quite interested in her."


    "Uh... let''s forget about that," Lucas scratched the back of his head helplessly and said, "She has a bad temper and personality. If she identally offends you, that would be troublesome."


    At this moment, Lucas''s body suddenly started trembling slightly.


    "Are you okay?" Ningguang immediately noticed something was wrong with Lucas and showed a worried expression: "Why... why did you suddenly start shivering?"


    Luckily, Lucas had strong willpower, managed to sit still, and said calmly, "I''m fine, just a bit ufortable."


    "I''d better take you to the clinic..." Ningguang seemed very concerned about Lucas and said, "You looked very strange just now."


    "I''m really fine," Lucas finally recovered, wiped the sweat from his cheeks, and said, "Please, Lady Ningguang..."


    At this moment, Ningguang suddenly took two steps forward, directly walked to the front of the office, bent down, and pressed her forehead against Lucas''s.


    "Strange..." Ningguang frowned and said, "No fever."


    At this point, Lucas''s body hadpletely stiffened, unable to utter a single word out of fear.


    Fortunately, Ningguang did not look further and instead stepped back two steps, smiled slightly, and said, "It seems your body is indeed fine. In that case, I''ll leave first."


    "Goodbye..." Lucas finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    "What?" Ningguang raised an eyebrow and said, "I''m leaving, and you won''t see me off?"


    "I..."


    Just as Lucas didn''t know how to respond, Ningguang smiled reassuringly and said, "Alright, I was just joking. Sit tight. You have a lot of trouble ahead, so use your clever little brain to think about how to solve them."


    Watching Ningguang leave the office, Lucas finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Shenhe wiped the corner of her mouth and said indifferently, "I heard everything you just said... It seems you really intend to save Yun."


    "I may not be a good person, but I always keep my word," Lucas sneered and said, "However, this is just the beginning. In the next three months, I need all the victims to sign the consent forms to ensure Yun''s safety. You know what this means, right?"


    "I know," Shenhe, though not as cunning as Ningguang, was not a fool. She showed a self-deprecating smile and said, "It means that until the thirteenth victim signs, I must work for you, right?"


    "Correct. Moreover, you must be cautious and sincere, treating me as devoutly as you would the Geo Archon," Lucas suppressed his excitement and said, "So, tell me, Shenhe, what should you call me?"


    Shenhe hesitated for a moment but then, holding back her shyness, uttered the two words.


    Lucas didn''t want to be a viin.


    But he had to admit, being a viin... feels really good!


    You canpletely disregard societal norms and have no need to hide the filth and evil in your heart.


    Shyness, pain, resentment...


    From childhood to adulthood, Shenhe was always admired and held in high regard, but now, in front of this much younger boy, she was like a pleading little dog.


    Shenhe, endure it!


    All this is to save Yun. For that child, no matter what you suffer, you must endure it!


    Shenhe had already made up her mind.


    As long as Yun is sessfully exonerated, she will immediately kill Lucas. Even if it means dying in the process, she cannot let Lucas live.


    Doing so would be for revenge and to ensure that no one would ever know what she did for Yun''s sake.


    After all, to Shenhe, Yun was like her own son.


    However, at this moment, Lucas seemedpletely unaware of the murderous intent behind Shenhe''s fake smile. He gently patted her cheek and said, "For the next three months, you mustpletely obey my orders. But don''t worry, I won''t let anyone know about our rtionship. Just like Ningguang said, this... is our little secret."


    "Hmph..."


    Shenhe couldn''t help but say coldly, "Sounds nice, but if someone finds out, your own reputation will be destroyed too, right?"


    "Tsk, tsk, tsk!" Lucas shook his head and said, "That''s not the attitude you should have towards your master. You should know the consequences of defying me, right?"


    Unexpectedly, Shenhe suddenly smiled and stood up.


    "What are you doing?" Shenhe''s sudden action made Lucas a bit nervous.


    Could this woman be unable to hold back and n to have a life-and-death struggle with him?


    However...


    Even in the extremely realistic "Immersive Mode," he was still in a simted scenario within the "Character Simtor." Even if he "died," he would just exit the game.


    "Don''t you like my strong and aloof demeanor?" Shenhe pressed down on Lucas''s shoulders, her silver hair cascading like a snowy waterfall. "You wouldn''t want me to be passive, right?"


    "Interesting."


    A slight smile appeared on Lucas''s lips.


    One hourter...


    [Exit Immersive Mode, entering Text Mode]


    As the system''s prompt sounded, the scene before Lucas changed from the beautiful office to a somewhat cramped carriagepartment.


    For a moment, Lucas seemed a bit disoriented.


    Everything that had just happened felt too "real."


    It was like ying a fully immersive VR game, but not only were the visualspletely realistic, even all other sensations were identical to reality.


    [How was it? Being a viin feels pretty good, doesn''t it?]


    Facing the system''s "soul-searching question," Lucas''s expression becameplicated. He frowned and said, "I was just experiencing the storyline. Even so, I still can''t ept the things I did in the Simtor."


    [But you didn''t resist at all in Immersive Mode, did you?]


    Hearing the system''s words, Lucas''s face turned red. He mumbled, "That''s... that''s beyond my control. Besides, I didn''t enjoy it!"


    [I recorded everything that happened in Immersive Mode. Would you like me to rey it and see your expression?]


    "No!"


    Lucas blushed and said, "Why would you record that? I don''t want to be some kind of perverted guy!"


    [Don''t worry, only participants can see what happens in the Simtor.]


    "That''s good..."


    Lucas finally breathed a sigh of relief, but he didn''t seem to notice that something was off with the system''s response.


    [The Viin Simtor is currently paused. Do you want to continue?]


    "Continue."


    [Day 1 at age 16: You had Shenhe work for you all afternoon. She seemed inexperienced, so you gave her a lot of guidance.]


    [The talent "Mischievous Shiba Inu" activated, receiving a C-level loot box X1]


    As expected of a purple talent, it not only enhances abilities but also grants rewards.


    However, this makes sense. No matter how much one''s character improves in the Character Simtor, it has no direct impact on reality. It''s more convenient and efficient to receive rewards directly in the real world.


    [Though you want to continue exploring the true essence of character with Shenhe, you know there''s no need to rush. You have a full three months to deal with her. As night falls, you decide...]


    [1. Take Shenhe Home]


    [2. Let Shenhe Go Home Herself]


    Hmmm...


    ying a viin doesn''t mean being a jerk. After having fun, letting the other person take a taxi home seems a bit too scummy.


    "Take Shenhe home."


    [You suggest taking Shenhe home. She is a bit surprised but does not refuse. When you reach her home, you hand her a "Sound Transmission Stone" and tell her you''ll use it to contact her when you "need" her.]


    [Shenhe understands the implication of your words. She looks slightlyplex as she puts the Sound Transmission Stone into her sleeve, nods, and then enters her residence.]


    [You watch Shenhe''s figure disappear before preparing to leave. Just as you turn around, someone suddenly grabs your cor. A man dressed as a Taoist is holding you with a suspicious look, asking for your identity. You answer...]


    [1. I am a friend of ChongYun]


    [2. I am Shenhe''s lover]


    Is there even a need to think about this... choosing the second option is practically self-destructive.


    "Choose the first one."


    [You tell the man that you are a ssmate of ChongYun. He looks at your school uniform and then nods. He tells you, a bit unpleasantly, that he is ChongYun''s uncle and Shenhe''s fianc¨¦, named Pan Zhi, and that you should keep your distance from Shenhe in the future.]


    [However, you notice from his expression that he is lying. You guess he is just one of Shenhe''s many admirers. You respond...]


    [1. I will]


    [2. I refuse]


    "The first one."


    At times like this, it''s better to keep a low profile. Who knows if choosing the second option would lead to him killing me in a fit of anger?


    This "Viin Simtor" appears calm on the surface, but it hides danger everywhere. Sometimes, a single wrong choice can lead to GAME OVER.


    [After hearing your response, Pan Zhi releases you but doesn''t notice the cold smile on your face.]


    [Back home, you immediately start drafting aprehensive n to get the forgiveness of the thirteen victimized students. For you, this is not difficult. Not only because they were originally your allies, but also because you''ve gathered a lot of leverage against them over the past two days. You have many ways to get them to sign the forgiveness letter. Your choice is...]


    [1. Get all the victimized students to sign the forgiveness letter immediately]


    [2. Have the victimized students sign the forgiveness letter one by one]


    "The second one." Lucas thought for a moment and chose the second option.


    [However, you are not in a hurry. As long as even one victim hasn''t signed, Shenhe will still be under your control.]


    [Age: 16, 3rd day: Using the Sound Transmission Stone, you call Shenhe back to school. Unexpectedly, she arrives with a man, the same Pan Zhi who stopped you at her door two days ago. He seems very attentive to Shenhe, but she reacts very coldly.]


    Why is this guy here again?


    Lucas frowned slightly. Now was his "happy time" with Shenhe, and this NPC was ruining it.


    Looks like I have to step in myself!


    "Enter immersive mode!"


    [Command received! Switching to sensory mode.]


    The familiar feeling returns as Lucas opens his eyes again. He is now sitting in the familiar seat of the student council president.


    Sure enough, sitting across from him, besides Shenhe, is another man.


    He looks about twenty-seven or twenty-eight, with a somewhat handsome face and a blue Hydro Vision hanging from his waist.


    No wonder he dared to im to be Shenhe''s fianc¨¦.


    The family of ChongYun and Shenhe is a famous exorcist n in Liyue Harbor, and also a sect. However, even so, the number of disciples with Visions is very few.


    Therefore, those with Visions are usually specially nurtured by the sect.


    Obviously, Pan Zhi is one of them.


    "Hello, we meet again," Lucas, now more skilled in immersive mode, smiled at Pan Zhi, who looked slightly impatient. "If I remember correctly, I only invited Miss Shenhe to the school, right?"


    "ChongYun is also my junior. I think I have the right to discuss this matter," Pan Zhi said coldly. "Moreover, don''t you think you''re meeting with Shenhe too frequently?"


    Undoubtedly, Pan Zhi has feelings for Shenhe; otherwise, he wouldn''t be so attentive to her schedule.


    "Sorry, but you are not ChongYun''s guardian, are you?" Lucas sped his hands and supported his chin. "Or do you have some special rtionship with Shenhe?"


    Sure enough, Pan Zhi didn''t dare to im to be Shenhe''s fianc¨¦ in front of her this time. Instead, Shenhe frowned and said, "Senior Pan, I understand your concern for Yun, but please wait outside for now."


    "I... I understand." Pan Zhi bit his lip but didn''t dare to anger Shenhe. He nodded and prepared to leave the room. Before closing the door, he gave Lucas a fierce look, not hiding the threat in his eyes at all.


    "I met that man two days ago," Lucas leaned back in his chair, finding a morefortable position. "He said he was your fianc¨¦."


    "Hmph..." Shenhe sneered. "Do you think that''s possible? He''s just a guy I can''t shake off, like gum stuck to the bottom of a shoe."


    "I agree," Lucas nodded. "He''s not worthy of you."


    "Oh?" Shenhe said lightly. "Then who do you think is worthy of me? You, my master?"


    "I am not worthy either. I am just a petty man who threatens you with tricks," Lucas shrugged and smiled. "When these three months are over, you should find a decent man."


    "Is this..." Shenhe seemed surprised by his words. "Are you sincere?"


    "Of course not," Lucasughed. "I wish I could have you as my captive for life."


    Now, Lucas waspletely in character. Even the system didn''t find his actions or words inappropriate.


    "That''s more like you," Shenhe said bitterly. "But I probably won''t marry anyone. My body is so filthy now."


    That was a veiled insult.


    "No need to be so down. I called you today to tell you some good news," Lucas said, opening a drawer and taking out a document. "I have already obtained the first signed forgiveness letter."


    "Really?" Shenhe was delighted. The only thing that could bring her some joy now was progress in Yun''s case. She carefully read the document and murmured, "You acted so fast?"


    "I told you, even if I am a scoundrel, I am a trustworthy scoundrel," Lucas smiled ambiguously. "So, don''t you think you should reward your master for this good news?"


    "Now?" Shenhe was taken aback.


    "Yes," Lucas nodded. "Right now."


    "But..." Shenhe nced at the door. "That guy is still waiting outside."


    "I know," Lucas smiled. "Let him wait. We have taken the first step sessfully. You don''t want to stop halfway, do you?"


    Finally, for Yun''s sake, Shenhe nodded. "I... I understand."


    "Very well," Lucas opened the most secret drawer in the office, where many useful "gadgets" were hidden.


    "Wait a moment, I need to prepare some protection..."


    "No need," Shenhe shook her head. "I... I took the medicine."


    Lucas immediately understood what Shenhe meant. He frowned, "Why... did you do that?"


    -----

 Chapter 8: Villain Simulator, Ch 8

    <h4>Chapter 8: Viin Simtor, Ch 8</h4>


    "What are you angry about, shouldn''t you be happy?" ShenHe said with a slightly sarcastic smile on her face. "It doesn''t matter, as long as Yun is safe, I don''t care about anything else."


    "You''re wrong," unexpectedly, Lucas shook his head and said, "I don''t know what medicine you''re taking, but you must stop."


    ShenHe hesitated a little, "But..."


    "No buts..." Lucas patted the table and said, "This is an order."


    ...


    Meanwhile, outside the student council office.


    "Why is it taking so long?" Pan Zhi, who had been "asked" to leave, stood in front of a mirror on the outer wall of the office, stroking his chin with a slight frown. "I wonder what they are doing in there?"


    Pan Zhi was very jealous by nature. Although ShenHe had no interest in him, he believed that with his God''s Eye and being one of the family''s key training prospects, it was only a matter of time before he could win ShenHe''s heart if he put in a little effort.


    Despite his rational mind telling him that the age and status difference between ShenHe and Lucas made any romantic involvement impossible, watching the woman he was infatuated with alone with another man made him very uneasy.


    "Maybe I''m overthinking it," Pan Zhi said, adjusting his hair in the mirror with a very confident smile. "No matter how youpare, I''m much better than that youngd. ShenHe... I know you love me, you''re just shy to express it. Don''t worry, one day I''ll make you admit it!"


    However, Pan Zhi had no idea that his self-talk was clearly heard by Lucas and ShenHe from behind the one-way ss.


    "I say..." ShenHe, leaning on the one-way ss for support, blushed slightly. "Are all men this stupid?"


    "Not all," Lucas, working hard behind her, replied. "But many men be quite foolish when dealing with women they like."


    "Is... is that true?" ShenHe bit her lip. "But... I don''t feel that you are being foolish at all. Does that mean... you don''t like me?"


    "Is what I''m doing not foolish enough?" Lucas said softly. "I''ve spent my whole life ying the role of a good child and a good student. If I wanted, I could graduate peacefully from this school, get a job everyone envies, find a beautiful wife of equal status, and have a few children. But to win you over, I had to take this huge risk. One wrong step, and my life would be ruined."


    Lucas''s words left ShenHe momentarily silent. She knew she was an attractive woman, her coldness and pridergely stemmed from self-awareness. However, a man with a promising future like Lucas, even if he didn''t choose her, could easily win the hearts of many excellent girls who were gentler, better matched in family background, and younger.


    For ordinary people, beauty often cannot withstand the ravages of time.


    "Your life isn''t ruined yet," Shen He said calmly. "But my life has already been ruined by you. I hate you."


    "You can hate me," Lucas smiled, "but make sure to finish that sentence."


    "I hate you," ShenHe hesitated for a moment, "My Master"


    [Activated: Mischievous Shiba Inu Effect, Obtained C-level Loot Box X1]


    ...


    An hourter.


    "Isn''t this taking too long?"


    As time passed, Pan Zhi''s mood worsened. Whatever they were discussing, it should have been finished by now!


    Could it be that...


    They were really doing something unspeakable in there?


    "Ugh..."


    At that moment, a strange sound suddenly came from the office. Without a doubt, it was ShenHe''s voice!


    Pan Zhi felt a wave of nervousness and hurried to the door, trying to open it. However, the door was somehow locked and he couldn''t push it open no matter how hard he tried.


    Locked?


    Why lock it?


    If they were just talking, why would they need to lock the door?


    "Open the door!" Pan Zhi pounded on the door angrily. "What are you doing in there?"


    However, the door remained firmly shut.


    In his anger, Pan Zhi took two steps back. The hydro element of his Vision emitted a blue light, and a water ball the size of a ser ball formed in his hand. Just as he was about to use the water ball to break down the door, he heard a creak. The door opened slowly, and Lucas poked his head out with a smile. "Sorry to keep you waiting... What are you doing?"


    "Nothing..." Pan Zhi dispersed the water ball, frowning. "But what were you doing in there, and why lock the door?"


    "Oh, you misunderstood. The door locks automatically and only I can open it," Lucas lied with a straight face, "After all, I hate being interrupted while working."


    "Hmph!" Pan Zhi pushed Lucas aside and entered the office, seeing Shen He sitting in her original position without any sign of anything unusual. He then asked, "You... you''re fine?"


    "What could possibly be wrong with me?" ShenHe replied calmly, "We were just discussing some ns to help Yun out of trouble."


    "It took a bit too long," Pan Zhi said suspiciously. "And I think I heard some strange sounds earlier."


    Pan Zhi''s words made a look of surprise sh across ShenHe''s face, but it quickly disappeared. She just gave a coldugh and said, "How long I talk to others is none of your business."


    "I..." ShenHe''s words immediately made Pan Zhi''s face change color. He muttered, "I... I was just a little worried about you both..."


    "Worried about what?" ShenHe asked calmly, showing no change in expression. "Are you afraid that I, along with this little guy, will do something inappropriate in this office?"


    "I..." Pan Zhi, whose thoughts had been exposed, quickly shook his head. "No... I would never think like that!"


    "Hmph, even if I did do something like that, it''s none of your business." ShenHe stood up and said coldly, "I only ask that you stay far away from me."


    After finishing her sentence, ShenHe left without looking back, leaving Pan Zhi standing alone in the room.


    Pan Zhi''s face was a grim sight. He turned to look at Lucas, gritting his teeth. "I told you to stay away from ShenHe, didn''t I?"


    "Of course," Lucas said nonchntly. "But this time, it was Ms. ShenHe who came to see me. You should know by now, we''re both just trying to ensure Chongyun is okay. By the way, speaking of that, your fianc¨¦e..."


    "What about my fianc¨¦e?" Pan Zhi asked coldly.


    Lucas licked his fingers and smiled. "She''s very... <strong>slippery</strong>."


    "You''re asking for it!"


    Pan Zhi lost control and, in a fit of rage, swung his fist directly at Lucas''s face.


    [Viin Simtor Defense Mechanism Activated]


    Pan Zhi''s strength far surpassed that of Lucas, so his punch sent him flying, but surprisingly, Lucas didn''t feel any pain.


    This was thanks to the system. The "Immersive Mode" could be turned on or off at any time, meaning that even if Pan Zhi''s punch had killed Lucas, his real body wouldn''t feel a thing in Immersive Mode.


    Blood trickled from Lucas''s nose. He wiped it off casually, snapped his fingers, and said, "Security."


    At that moment, three burly men in uniforms entered the room. Seeing Lucas, the student council president, with blood on his face, they immediately asked in unison,


    "What happened?" x3


    The synchronization in their voices almost made Lucas feel like transforming on the spot.


    "This man broke into the school and assaulted me," Lucas said calmly. "Take him to the administrative office. For a crime like this, he should be detained for at least three months."


    "You... you set me up!" Pan Zhi suddenly realized. Lucas had provoked him on purpose to make him act out, only to have him arrested.


    "Mind your words," Lucas dusted off his clothes and replied indifferently. "This was an open strategy, nothing underhanded. Anyints? Save them for yourwyer. A-Da, A-Er, A-San, take him away."


    "Yes!" The three security guards nodded in sync again. They surrounded Pan Zhi and repeated in unison, "Pleasee with us."


    "Hmph!" Pan Zhi scoffed, "Do you three think you''re enough to stop me?"


    As a highly regarded disciple of his sect, Pan Zhi was confident in his strength. He didn''t even consider these ordinary school guards a threat. Ayer of water element energy surrounded his body, and three water spheres shot toward the guards in an instant.


    However, the guards were surprisingly fast, easily dodging the water spheres. Before Pan Zhi could react, two of the guards had already pinned his shoulders, and the third punched him squarely in the chest.


    Pan Zhi felt a tremendous force hit his chest, and his body flew backward.


    This time, he flew even higher and farther than when he punched Lucas, his body tracing a graceful arc in the air before crashing to the ground with a thud.


    *Cough!* Pan Zhi spat out a mouthful of blood, his brow furrowed. "Who... who are you people?"


    Pan Zhi''s strength ranked at the fifth level, the "Genshin" level, out of seven tiers, meaning he should have been able to easily overpower ordinary people.


    "We are..." The three guards struck a pose like something out of an old movie, then said in perfect unison, "Five-star students from the Tianheng Mountain Professional Security Academy!"


    "These three were personally assigned by Lady Tianquan to protect the academy," Lucas waved dismissively. "Now, take him away."


    Power levels alone don''t always determine the oue. A highly skilled ordinary person could still hold their own against someone with a Vision.


    "Yes!" The guards swiftly lifted the weakened Pan Zhi and dragged him out of the office.


    "Exit Immersive Mode."


    [Immersive Mode Exited!]


    "Phew..." Lucas let out a long breath.


    Honestly, it was a strange feeling.


    When in Immersive Mode, Lucas felt as if he was fully immersed in the simtor, bing a different person¡ªcunning, sinister, and cold-blooded,pletely different from his real self.


    But he didn''t feel any sense of conflict. It wasn''t as if the system was controlling his actions; rather, he had intended to act that way all along.


    What was more troubling, though, was that Lucas found himself somewhat enjoying ying the viin.


    Could it be... that deep down, he was actually an evil person?


    [Admit it, the simtor is influencing you.]


    "No... I''m not!" Lucas quickly refuted. "Reality and simted life are different!"


    [Let''s see how long you can stick to that.]


    That''s right!


    This was just a game.


    Like many games, there are paths for good and evil.


    As long as I can distinguish between reality and the game, I won''t be affected!


    Since time effectively stops while using the Life Simtor, even in Sensory Mode, it felt like Lucas had already spent considerable time with ShenHe.


    Thankfully, all sensations in the Life Simtor were virtual, so the punch from Pan Zhi hadn''t left anysting marks on Lucas in reality.


    [Why are you stopping?]


    "Can''t I take a break?"


    [Or are you not up for it?]


    "I''m more than up for it!" Lucas retorted, frustrated. "But if I stay in Immersive Mode for too long, time passes too slowly."


    While using the Life Simtor, time in the real world remained still, but within the simtion, time flowed normally.


    In other words, using Immersive Mode, Lucas could live an entire lifetime while not even a second passed in reality.


    Moreover, in text mode, he could observe everything from a third-person perspective. However, in Immersive Mode, he had to experience everything firsthand, especially when ying the viin. It felt... odd.


    Of course, there were certain key moments when he still preferred to participate himself.


    After all, being a good person and growing up don''t always have to be mutually exclusive events.


    [16th year, 8th day: You visited ShenHe to report the progress of the peace agreements, and the two of you had a work-rted conversation in her room.]


    [Effect of "Mischievous Shiba Inu" triggered, received C-rank loot box X1]


    [16th year, 13th day: You and ShenHe visited the second victim''s home to seek an apology. With your subtle direction, you sessfully obtained the second agreement. You then entered the bathroom with ShenHe.]


    [Effect of "Mischievous Shiba Inu" triggered, received C-rank loot box X1]


    [16th year, 18th day: You and ShenHe visited the third victim at the hospital and sessfully obtained the third agreement. You then handed a nurse''s outfit to Shen He.]


    [Effect of "Mischievous Shiba Inu" triggered, received C-rank loot box X1]


    [16th year, 21st day: You heard Chongyun had been released from his confinement, so you decided to pay him a visit...]


    "Pause." Lucas said suddenly, as he read that line of text. "Enter Immersive Mode."


    [You wouldn''t go after Chongyun, would you?]


    "No!" Lucas groaned. "I just want to see him and have a chat."


    Ironically, though Lucas had approached Chongyun with a n in this Life Simtor, Chongyun had be his most trusted friend.


    This innocent, kind-hearted boy still didn''t realize that his violent outburst had everything to do with Lucas''s maniption.


    [Entering Immersive Mode]


    A familiar sensation washed over him, and the scene before Lucas transformed into a clean, tidy room with simple furnishings. Arge calligraphy of the word "Dao" hung on the wall.


    "Lucas!"


    A pair of pale hands suddenly waved in front of him, revealing a boy with a doll-like face and short, ice-blue hair sitting across from Lucas, smiling. "What are you daydreaming about?"


    No need for introductions¡ªthis was Chongyun.


    Compared to his appearance in the game, he looked even younger now, his clear eyes seemingly able to see straight through to someone''s soul.


    "N-Nothing," Lucas quickly shook his head. "How have you beentely?"


    "Not much, just a little confinement," Chongyun said, scratching his head with a bit of frustration. "It''s all my fault for not being able to control myself... How embarrassing."


    "It''s not your fault," Lucas shook his head and said, "It''s the fault of those bad students. It''s also my fault. I didn''t manage them well. As the president of the student union, I can''t escape the me."


    These words are not hypocritical words of Lucas.


    In fact, he was really guilty about what happened to Chongyun.


    ---

 Chapter 9: Villain Simulator, Ch 9

    <h4>Chapter 9: Viin Simtor, Ch 9</h4>


    "Don''t say that!" Chongyun suddenly pressed down on Lucas''s shoulder, locking eyes with him, and said earnestly, "Others may me you, but I never will, because... we''re best friends!"


    The thought of taking advantage of such a kind-hearted boy made Lucas feel a wave of guilt.


    At that moment, the door creaked open, and Shenhe gracefully walked in, cing a tray of refreshments on the table. She smiled and asked, "What are you two talking about?"


    "We''re just chatting casually," Chongyun, whose mood had visibly improved since Lucas''s arrival, smiled. "It''s been a tough time for both you and Aunt Shenhe. I''ve heard you''ve been tirelessly helping out with my matters."


    "Don''t say such things," Shenhe replied softly. "Ever since my sister entrusted you to me, I''ve treated you like my own son."


    "Please... stop saying things like that. Auntie, you''re barely older than me!" Chongyun''s pale cheeks flushed slightly with embarrassment. He bit his lip and stammered, "Besides, I''m an adult now. Shouldn''t you... start thinking about your own future?"


    Chongyun''s feelings toward Shenhe wereplicated. He was deeply grateful for her care but also felt a pang of guilt. If it weren''t for him, this remarkable woman might already have a happy family, perhaps even children.


    His words made Shenhe pause. She nced at Lucas, sighed, and said, "Forget it. Someone my age doesn''t have many options left. All I hope is that you study hard, Chongyun, and take care of me in my old age."


    "How can you say that?" Lucas suddenly interjected. "In my eyes, Aunt Shenhe is the most beautiful and captivating woman in the world."


    "Well, that''s a rarepliment..." Chongyun looked slightly surprised. "It''s the first time I''ve heard you praise a girl so highly, Lucas... what a shame though..."


    "A shame? What do you mean?" Shenhe and Lucas asked in unison.


    "It''s just..." Chongyun scratched his cheek awkwardly. "It''s a shame Aunt Shenhe is my elder, and Lucas is my friend. Otherwise, I think you two would make a great couple."


    "We wouldn''t match at all." Shenhe shook her head. "You two chat. I... I need to go practice."


    As Shenhe left the room, Chongyun furrowed his brows and muttered, "Lucas, have you noticed something strange about Aunt Shenhetely?"


    "Strange? What do you mean?" Sweat beaded on Lucas''s forehead, and he tried to stay calm. "I don''t think she''s any different from before."


    Crap!


    Lucas''s heart raced with anxiety.


    Could it be that Chongyun had noticed something?


    If he discovered the truth about the rtionship between him and Shenhe, it would surely break his heart!


    "It''spletely different!" Chongyun rapped his knuckles on the table. "You don''t understand Aunt Shenhe. She has a fiery temper. If she''d heard what I said earlier, she would''ve been furious! But instead, she barely reacted."


    Indeed, based on her old temper, it would have been a miracle if Shenhe hadn''t flipped the table after hearing thatment.


    Relieved by Chongyun''s words, Lucas chuckled. "Maybe she''s just exhausted from running around for your saketely and doesn''t have the energy to be angry."


    "Sigh, maybe you''re right..." Chongyun looked troubled. "Lucas, you''re my best friend. Can I ask you a favor?"


    "Of course!" Lucas quickly nodded. "What is it?"


    "I hope you can take care of Aunt Shenhe for me during this time..." Chongyun smiled wryly. "Though she''s older than us, her temper can be a bit fiery. If she gets too emotional and does something reckless..."


    "Don''t worry," Lucas patted his chest confidently. "I promise... I''ll take good care of her."


    Yes, in every sense of the word... take care of her.


    "Hahaha, enough of that," Chongyun grinned. "I''ve been cooped up for so long, I almost suffocated. Today, you have to keep mepany."


    "No problem," Lucasughed. "Forget your worries and have some fun for a day."


    ...


    This time, Lucas didn''t exit the immersive mode. He truly spent the entire day with Chongyun, from morning till night.


    Lucas wasn''t sure why he did it. Perhaps it was to ease the guilt he felt toward Chongyun.


    After all, if it were the "Lucas" from this simtion, Chongyun might have just been used as a tool to get closer to Shenhe. In that case, Chongyun would be pitiful.


    Before they knew it, night had fallen.


    Unable to refuse Chongyun''s hospitality, Lucas agreed to stay the night at his residence. Though the estate had many guest rooms, he ended up sharing a room with Chongyun. As old friends, chattingte into the night didn''t feel odd.


    Perhaps because of the exhausting day, Chongyun began snoring lightly not long after theyy down.


    Due to his pure yang constitution, even Chongyun''s bed was made of special ice to suppress his internal heat.


    Of course, this bed wasn''t as extraordinary as the ice jade bed in "The Return of the Condor Heroes." It merely cooled the room down a bit.


    Aside from Chongyun, no one could endure such a bed. So, Lucasid a mat on the floor, about a meter away from Chongyun''s bed.


    Seeing Chongyun fast asleep, Lucas was about to exit "immersive mode" when suddenly, the system''s voice rang out again.


    [You suddenly feel an impulse. What will you do?]


    [1. Handle it yourself.]


    [2. Use the sound transmission stone to call Shenhe over.]


    [3. Go to Shenhe''s room to find her.]


    Huh?


    A choice at this moment?


    As a gentleman...


    "Ahem... I choose option two."


    Why option two? Because Lucas wasn''t familiar with theyout. If he chose the third, he''d probably get lost. And as for option one...


    Choosing such an ordinary option in this viin simtor would surely lead to some bad oue.


    That must be it!


    Since it was in immersion mode, the system didn''t automatically carry out Lucas''s choice. He took out the sound transmission stone and whispered, "I miss you. Come find me."


    Wait, did that just sound a bit creepy?


    However, this time, Shenhe didn''t respond immediately. After a brief silence, she hesitated and asked, "...Wouldn''t that be inappropriate?"


    "It''s fine. Chongyun''s asleep," Lucas replied, his tone carrying a subtle hint of threat. "You know how deep he sleeps. Even if we butchered a pig next to him, he probably wouldn''t wake up."


    "...Did you just call me a pig?" Shenhe paused, realizing something odd in Lucas''s words. "I understand. Wait for me."


    She''s reallying?


    Actually, Lucas wasn''t sure if Shenhe woulde. After all, this time was different... they were in Chongyun''s room.


    Not long after, just as Lucas was drifting off to sleep, the door quietly creaked open. Shenhe, like a ethereal beauty, appeared before him.


    "Do you like it?" Shenhe asked softly. "I dressed like this... just for you."


    "I like it... very much," Lucas murmured.


    "Shh, don''t speak," Shenhe whispered. "You don''t want Chongyun to hear, do you? Just this once, let me take the lead."


    Lucas might not be a good teacher.


    But Shenhe is undoubtedly an excellent student.


    At the very least, in less than a month of learning, Shenhe has already mastered some effective methods.


    Lucas knew in his heart that Shenhe''s diligence wasn''t due to any affection for him. It was simply to earn his approval.


    No matter how close Shenhe appeared to be with him, Lucas could still see theplexity hidden in her eyes.


    Resentment, disgust, and... disdain.


    It was a strange rtionship. Both Shenhe and Lucas knew how they viewed each other, yet on the surface, they managed to coexist "harmoniously."


    ["Mischievous Shiba Inu" effect activated: You''ve earned 3 C-level loot boxes.]


    Sure enough, this time''s actions were more exaggerated than before, so the rewards from "Mischievous Shiba Inu" were significantly higher.


    In the past three months, Lucas had been looking for every opportunity to activate the "Mischievous Shiba Inu" effect.


    He had to admit, "Mischievous Shiba Inu" was indeed a powerful purple-tier talent. In just these three months, it had already yielded more than a dozen C-level loot boxes. Rationally speaking... it was worth it.


    ...


    [Day 89, Age 16: Everything is going smoothly. You sessfully obtained a letter of forgiveness from thest victimized student, who was also the one most severely injured. He temporarily lost his sight after Chongyun''s attack caused pressure on his optic nerves. When you and Shenhe visited him, his face was still wrapped in bandages.]


    ["Mischievous Shiba Inu" effect activated: You''ve earned 1 C-level loot box.]


    [Day 90, Age 16: The three-month period has finally ended. Thanks to yourbined efforts with Ningguang, Chongyun has received forgiveness. He will return to school without facing any punishment. On that day, you saw Shenhe smile again¡ªa rare smile, one that seemed like a release.]


    [That night, you sat alone in the student council office. You and Shenhe had created many "wonderful" memories here... at least, in your mind.]


    [What Shenhe didn''t know was that you had hidden some secrets in this office. In many corners, you had installed high-quality cameras imported from Fontaine. Everything that happened between you two was recorded.]


    [So, your choice is...]


    [1. Invite Shenhe to the student council office.]


    [2. Destroy the cameras and cut all ties with Shenhe.]


    Looking at the options, Lucas hesitated for a moment.


    "I... my choice is..."


    "I choose the second option."


    In the end, Lucas made his decision.


    [Hmph, I thought that would be your choice. Seems you''re not yet ready to be a true viin.]


    "This is my life simtor," Lucas replied coldly. "I''ll make my own choices."


    [Of course, my dear host.]


    [You use the Sound Stone to invite Shenhe to the student council office.]


    "Activate immersive mode."


    [Immersive mode activated.]


    When Lucas opened his eyes again, the Shenhe in front of him was more beautiful and captivating than ever.


    "What''s the matter?" Lucas smiled awkwardly, perhaps because of the tension. "Is it because this is ourst meeting, and you want to leave with a better memory?"


    "If I could, I''d erase all the memories of these past three months," Shenhe replied expressionlessly. "But this is thest time."


    "I know, it''s thest time," Lucas nodded. "I''ve said it many times¡ªI''m a bad person, but I''m also a man of my word."


    "Do you know something?" Shenhe''s lips curled slightly. "I don''t care whether you''re a bad person or not. You don''t need to keep emphasizing it."


    ["Mischievous Shiba Inu" effect activated: You''ve earned 3 C-level loot boxes.]


    ...


    Two hourster.


    Shenhe knew this would be thest time. From this point on, she wouldpletely cut ties with Lucas.


    Ironically, three months ago, she had nned to bring Lucas down with her once Chongyun was exonerated. But now that it was all over, she had lost the desire to kill him.


    "So..." Lucas said somewhat dejectedly, "this really is ourst meeting?"


    "Yes," Shenhe replied without turning back. "If I walk away today, it''s over between us."


    "Then stay," Lucas blurted out.


    Shenhe''s body trembled slightly at his words. She turned her head, her eyes showing a hint of surprise. "What... did you say?"


    "Our deal is over, but that doesn''t mean we''re done," Lucas said seriously. "Shenhe, I like you. Everything I''ve done was because I like you. But I know, for various reasons, we can''t be together. That''s why I took the route I did. This time, I won''t use anything to pressure you. So, will you... stay?"


    Upon hearing this, Shenhe''s emotions became extremelyplicated.


    ----

 Chapter 10: Villain Simulator, Ch 10

    <h4>Chapter 10: Viin Simtor, Ch 10</h4>


    After all, in this world, there was no such thing as "Stockholm syndrome." Shenhe had no way to exin why she felt a strange affection for this "bastard" who had been threatening her all along.


    "Are you...serious?" Shenhe slowly walked towards Lucas. "You should know, being with me wille with significant obstacles, right?"


    "I know," Lucas nodded, "but I''m willing."


    "I..."


    Shenhe felt a surge of emotion, and just as she was about to reach Lucas, there was a sudden crisp "snap" from beneath her feet.


    She looked down to see an oddly shaped small device at her feet that had appeared out of nowhere. Picking it up, Shenhe murmured, "Is this...a kamera?"


    Thanks to the bustling tradework in Liyue Harbor, foreign goods often made their way there. So for someone like Shenhe, from a wealthy family, a camera wasn''t unfamiliar.


    She instinctively turned the camera on, and what yed on the screen was...


    As the sounds from the camera filled the air, Lucas''s face darkened.


    It''s over. I''m done for.


    Lucas truly found himself in a situation where no excuse could save him.


    Those cameras were ced by the version of himself in the "Viin Simtor," not by his own volition. But exining that to Shenhe? She would never believe it.


    "I actually, for a moment, believed your words..." A cold killing intent radiated from Shenhe. "Lucas, from start to finish, you''re nothing but an irredeemable viin!"


    With a loud "snap," the red rope that Shenhe used to suppress the fierce aura of the "Lone Star Cmity" unraveled and fell to the ground.


    "I''m going...to kill you!" Shenhe dered, word by word.


    And this was thest image Lucas saw before he exited the full-immersion mode.


    [Due to the discovery of the cameras you ced, Shenhe, enraged beyond measure, unsealed her powers and, in her madness, gave you no chance to exin. She killed you in a brutally cruel manner.]


    [Life simtion over.]


    [Cause of death: Killed by the furious Shenhe.]


    [Overall evaluation: One wrong move, and you lose everything.]


    [Your rewards have been sent and can be viewed at any time.]


    Staring at the words on the screen, Lucas found himselfughing bitterly.


    Wha...what kind of nonsense is this?!


    He was just one step away from living a shamelessly blissful life with Shenhe.


    Why did this kind of plot twist suddenly happen...?


    "It''s like the game itself just decided to kill me off!" Lucas, scratching his head in frustration, shouted, "System! Are you messing with me on purpose?"


    [Every detail can potentially change the oue.]


    [Additionally, during full-immersion mode, you had plenty of chances to put away the cameras, but you didn''t pay attention.]


    Hearing this from the system, Lucas couldn''t think of a proper retort.


    It was true. If he had just been a little more mindful of the details, maybe this ridiculous oue could''ve been avoided.


    Luckily, this was just a game. If it were real life, dying like this would have been incredibly frustrating.


    [Please choose one of the two talents: "Mischievous Shiba Inu (Purple)" or "Exceptionally Brilliant Mind (Blue)" as your innate talent.]


    Since he had previously chosen the innate talent [Try Again], this time he could only pick one from these two options.


    "I''ll choose [Mischievous Shiba Inu]," Lucas said, his face turning slightly red. "Don''t get me wrong, I''m picking this just because its rarity is higher."


    [No need to exin, I understand.]


    To be fair, the [Mischievous Shiba Inu] talent was indeed quite powerful. For example, in this life simtion alone, it had earned Lucas twenty C-rank loot boxes.


    Although the activation conditions for this talent were a bit "peculiar," it was mostly a challenge in real life. Within the life simtion, its efficiency was very high.


    At the very least, after going through the [Viin Simtor] twice, Lucas had a decent understanding of the system''s mechanics. As long as he stayed true to himself, even bing an infamous viin in the virtual world wasn''t a problem.


    Being evil in the virtual world was all about doing good in the real one!


    Of course, to Lucas, this was just a way to console himself.


    As for those twenty C-rank loot boxes, after some careful nning, Lucas exchanged them for one A-rank loot box, three B-rank loot boxes, and two C-rank loot boxes.


    While higher-tier loot boxes might offer better rewards, their overall value could sometimes be outmatched by lower-tier ones.


    [Opened A-rank loot box: Received reward - "Serenitea Pot."]


    [Dust Serenitea Pot.]


    [Rank: A]


    [Effect: Creates an independent space of your own.]


    [Description: At least you won''t need to buy a house anymore.]


    So, the Serenitea Pot was an A-rank reward?


    Although creating an independent space might not seem immediately useful, it was actually quite convenient. Whether it was for storing materials or other purposes, it would be extremely handy.


    [Opened B-rank loot box: Received reward - Skill: "Diamond Body."]


    [Diamond Body.]


    [Rank: B]


    [Effect: Permanently increases defense by 10%. once per day, you can generate a defensive shield that blocks 90% of one attack''s damage.]


    [Description: This skill will make you...very tough!]


    A defensive skill?


    Although it could only be used once a day, blocking 90% of damage from one attack was nearly equivalent to negating the damage altogether.


    Of course, this only applied to most attacks. If someone like Raiden Shogun hit him with her "Musou no Hitotachi," even if 90% of the damage were blocked, Lucas would still probably be sliced in half.


    [Opened B-rank loot box: Received reward - Equipment: "Giant''s Gauntlets."]


    [Giant''s Gauntlets.]


    [Rank: B]


    [Effect: The size and weight of your fists increase with the force of your punches.]


    [Description: What''s a man without size?]


    Equipment?


    What appeared before Lucas was a pair of simple, ck fingerless gloves. For someone like him, who only had the [Charging Fist] skill, this was the perfect piece of gear.


    Though wearing these gloves might make him feel a little edgy.


    [Opened B-rank loot box: Received reward - Summon: "Greymon."]


    [Greymon.]


    [Rank: B]


    [Effect: Summon a Greymonto assist inbat.]


    [Description: Greymon, a Digimon at the Champion level. It has sharp ws and huge horns, its body a deadly weapon, making it highly aggressive.]


    Whoa! A Tyrannomon?!


    Not only that, but the reward also came with a Pok¨¦Ball... Although, there was something oddly out of ce about storing a Digimon in a Pok¨¦Ball.


    Still, Tyrannomon was only a B-rank summon.


    This made Lucas curious about what higher-level summons could be. Could it be Godzi? WarGreymon? Ultraman? A Gundam? EVA?


    [Opened C-rank loot box: Received reward - 300,000 Mora.]


    Ah! How simple and straightforward!


    For the currently penniless Lucas, this kind of reward was very practical.


    [Opened C-rank blind box: Received reward - Equipment: "M1911 Handgun."]


    [M1911 Handgun.]


    [Rank: C]


    [Effect: Comes with a silencer, 7-round capacity.]


    [Description: A .45ACP semi-automatic handgun. It doesn''t quite fit this world, but it''s a reliablepanion.]


    Seriously, a handgun?


    However, what made Lucas want tough was that the gun''s rank was actually lower than the gloves. Then again, in a fantastical world like Teyvat, firearms were naturally limited.


    At least,pared to those who could easily hurl fireballs, summon rocks, or shoot lightning with their Visions, the power of bullets seemed a bit underwhelming.


    Besides, for someone like Lucas, who hadn''t received any formal firearms training, this gun might actually be less effective than a brick.


    After opening all the rewards, Lucas finally felt a bit tired and gradually drifted off to sleep in the bumpy carriage.


    He couldn''t help but wonder if Shenhe would appear in his dreams tonight.


    ...


    Meanwhile, at Mt. Aozang, at the residence of Cloud Retainer:


    "Kill...I''ll kill you!"


    A silver-haired woman suddenly sat up from a wooden bed, her pale face drenched in sweat. She was panting heavily, her eyes filled with murderous intent.


    "Another nightmare?"


    At that moment, a low, somewhat raspy female voice came from beside the silver-haired woman. "This adeptus has told you before: even when sleeping, you must wear the red thread. Never be careless."


    The silver-haired woman was, of course, none other than Shenhe, a disciple of Cloud Retainer, the adeptus known as "Liyue''s three-eyed and five-manifestations adepti."


    Shenhe turned her head and saw a white-feathered crane standing beside the bed. Her expression grew somewhatplex as she said, "Master..."


    That crane was none other than Cloud Retainer herself, one of Liyue''s renowned adepti. In a calm tone, Cloud Retainer said, "I have often heard you speak in your sleep, but never have I heard such violent and malicious words before. What did you dream of?"


    Shenhe''s constitution was a rare one, known as the "Lone Star Cmity." Combined with her traumatic childhood, it often caused her to wake from nightmares in the middle of the night.


    However, no matter how terrifying her previous nightmares had been, Shenhe would usually forget them soon after waking up.


    But this dream was different...


    In this dream, not only had she encountered many people she had never seen before, but what was even stranger was that she remembered the events in the dream with unusual rity...


    Especially the three months she spent with that viin named Lucas. Even the smallest details felt as if they had truly happened.


    And when she thought about that man... no, to be precise, that boy, who had deceived her from the very beginning, Shenhe couldn''t help but feel a surge of anger rising again.


    She only remembered that, at the end of the dream, she had been unable to suppress her rage and had killed the boy outright. Immediately after his death, the dream abruptly ended, and she woke up.


    Everyone knows that what you think about during the day can manifest in your dreams at night. But much of what appeared in Shenhe''s dream waspletely unfamiliar to her, especially... certain things. Shenhe, being an innocent maiden, had never experienced anything like that in real life, yet the details of the process in the dream were so vivid and realistic. Even thinking about it now made her face flush, her heart race, and her mouth dry.


    "Shenhe?" Cloud Retainer, noticing the odd expression on her disciple''s face, furrowed her brow and asked again, "I asked you what you dreamed about, why aren''t you speaking?"


    "Ah, I..." Shenhe''s face reddened again.


    How could she possibly tell her highly esteemed master that she had done such shameful things in her dream?


    "No need to hold anything back," Cloud Retainer softened her tone, speaking gently. "Whatever it is, you can tell me."


    "I..." Shenhe hesitated for a moment but finally spoke up, "In the dream, I killed a viin with my own hands."


    "Oh? I thought it was something serious, but you only killed an evil person." Cloud Retainer nodded, looking rather approving. "Tell me, what wicked deed did this viinmit?"


    "He..."


    As soon as Shenhe opened her mouth, she suddenly felt confused.


    What bad thing had he done?


    ---

 Chapter 11: Villain Simulator, Ch 11

    <h4>Chapter 11: Viin Simtor, Ch 11</h4>


    It seems that, aside from using Chongyun to threaten her, he hadn''t actually done anything evil.


    Not only that, if it weren''t for his help, Chongyun wouldn''t have been able to clear his name.


    That''s right, this "deal" was entirely voluntary on her part; he didn''t force her into it...


    No, Shenhe, how could you defend that scoundrel?


    He''s clearly a devil with no sense of morality, treating people''s emotions as mere toys to manipte at will!


    Thinking this, Shenhe resolutely said, "He harassed me."


    Harassed?


    Cloud Retainer was momentarily taken aback.


    Could it be *that* kind of harassment?


    This left Cloud Retainer in a bit of a dilemma.


    After all, while she was well-versed in the heavens above, the earth below, yin and yang, the eight trigrams, and strange portals, she knew very little about matters between men and women.


    So, she had never taught Shenhe anything about such things.


    But, the child had grown up after all. Having such dreams was normal. Keeping Shenhe isted from the world forever was not a long-term solution.


    "Master," Shenhe''s face flushed slightly as she asked, "Do you think I''m having these dreams because I can''t shake off the inner demons, causing evil thoughts to arise?"


    "How could that be?" Cloud Retainer forced herself to remain calm and said, "Don''t overthink it. All girls, when they reach a certain age, will have these sorts of strange dreams."


    "Really?" Shenhe asked in surprise. "By the way, Master, has Senior Ganyu, whom you often mention, also had such dreams?"


    "Of... of course!" Perhaps wanting tofort Shenhe, Cloud Retainer nodded hastily. "Her dreams are even more bizarre than yours. For instance... dreaming of rolling down a hill, all the way to the bottom."


    "Master, that... I don''t think that was a dream. Senior Ganyu seems to have actually done that," Shenhe said seriously. "And she''s mentioned it quite a few times."


    ...


    "Achoo!"


    In Yuehai Pavilion, a blue-haired girl with ck horns sneezed heavily as she was reviewing documents.


    "Strange..." Ganyu rubbed her nose, frowning slightly. "Could it be that I''ve been overworking myself and identally caught a cold? No, I have a half-immortal body. How could I contract a mundane illness? Maybe it''s because of excessive dieting, and my immune system has weakened? Sigh... I really want some Sweet Flowers..."


    ...


    Back at Mt. Aocang, afterforting Shenhe for a while, Cloud Retainer seemed to suddenly recall something and asked, "By the way, how long have you been training under me?"


    "If we count from the day Master brought me up the mountain..." Shenhe respectfully replied, "It has been over twenty years."


    "Your dream reminds me," Cloud Retainer mused, "For over twenty years, I have taught you martial arts, immortal techniques, and helped you suppress your inner demons. Now that you''ve achieved mastery, it''s time for you to take up the mission of vanquishing demons and upholding justice."


    "Master, are you saying..." Shenhe mumbled as if realizing something, "that it''s time for me to leave the mountain?"


    "Indeed. You came from the mortal world, and now you must return to it," Cloud Retainer said, though there was a hint of reluctance in her voice. She still spoke firmly. "Your Senior Ganyu has already made her mark in Liyue. Though you are human, your talent is extraordinary, and you have received my full teachings. This time, when you descend the mountain, I will give you a task."


    "Please, Master, tell me!" Shenhe quickly responded.


    "y one hundred demons, teach a lesson to one hundred evildoers, and do one hundred good deeds." Cloud Retainer raised her wing, revealing three feathers. "Until youplete these tasks, you are not allowed to return."


    "Disciple... will obey!" Shenhe nodded.


    "Since you''ve been away from the mortal world for so long," Cloud Retainer added, "I will give you a treasure for your journey."


    A treasure?


    Hearing those words, Shenhe felt a surge of emotion. Despite Master''s usually cold demeanor, she still cared deeply for her. Now that Shenhe was about to leave, her master must be worried about her.


    But what kind of treasure would it be?


    A superior weapon? A refined technique? Or perhaps the recently improved portable Guizhong Ballista?


    Cloud Retainer waved her wing, and a book slowlynded in Shenhe''s hands.


    Shenhe looked at the cover, and to her surprise, the title read: *The Art of Conversation by Cloud Retainer*.


    W-what is this?


    "Shenhe, this is a book I''ve spent many yearspiling, filled with themunication skills I''ve umted over time," Cloud Retainer said proudly. "You''ve lived in istion for so long, and when you return to the world, you may not know how to interact with others. When you''re unsure, consult this book, and your problems will be solved."


    "I... I understand! I will follow your guidance!" Shenhe, touched, carefully put the book away. "But, such a rare book¡ªif published, Master, your reputation would surely spread across the seven nations."


    "*Cough cough*... I am not one to seek fame," Cloud Retainer coughed lightly. "Alright, pack up and head down the mountain. If you''re unsure where to go, find your Senior Ganyu. She will definitely help you out of respect for me."


    "Yes!" Shenhe nodded.


    In truth, Cloud Retainer wasn''t being entirely honest. She had finished writing the book years ago and had even taken human form to visit a publisher in Liyue to get it published.


    However, after reading it, the editor rejected it, saying, "This book''s content is too advanced for the people of Liyue right now."


    Unconvinced, Cloud Retainer self-published one hundred copies. As for the oue... well, the remaining ny-nine copies were still hidden under her bed.


    As Cloud Retainer watched Shenhe leave, her thoughts drifted back to centuries ago. Back then, she had watched Ganyu''s departure in the same way, only to see the child...


    Roll all the way down the mountain.


    "Whoosh!"


    At that moment, a shooting star streaked across the sky, cutting through the stillness of the night.


    "Shenhe, Ganyu..." For some reason, an ominous feeling shed through Cloud Retainer''s mind. She murmured, "You two, please stay safe."


    ...


    The next morning.


    "Young Master Li, this is the Ke family residence," said the merchant leader Zhang Luo, pointing at therge que overhead with pride. "What do you think? Quite grand, isn''t it?"


    The caravan had stopped in front of an opulent mansion. Two stone lions stood guard at the entrance, exuding a fierce aura. The gatekeepers, wielding water-fire staffs, looked burly and stern¡ªdefinitely not people to be trifled with.


    "Truly extraordinary..." Lucas nodded.


    Though he was quite familiar with Keqing from the game, he knew little about her family. Of course, there wasn''t much information on any of the characters'' backgrounds in the game.


    Keqing was simply said toe from a prestigious family in Liyue. But just how prestigious, Lucas wasn''t sure.


    "Follow me," Zhang Luo led Lucas into the Ke mansion, exining as they walked. "The Ke family''s business is wide-ranging, primarily in real estate, weaponry, and martial arts schools."


    "A martial arts school?" Lucas asked curiously.


    "Of course! How do you think Miss Keqing became so skilled? The people of Liyue highly value martial arts. After all, the Geo Archon is known as the ''God of War''. For mortals without a Vision, the only way to gain strength is through martial arts. Liyue Harbor has many schools, but when ites to swordsmanship, the Ke family''s *Cloud-Rising Sword Style* is second to none."


    "Old Zhang!"


    At that moment, a crisp voice called out from behind them. They turned to see a maid of about eighteen or neen years old, with her hair tied up in a bun. Although she couldn''tpare to Keqing or Shenhe, she was still quite a beauty.


    "So it''s Miss Chunxiang," Zhang Luo greeted her with a smile, unfazed by her rude tone. "Don''t misunderstand. This young man, Lucas, helped us during some trouble on the road. Without his help, we might not have made it here safely."


    He then introduced her, "This is Chunxiang, the head maid of the Ke household."


    Even the maid is this beautiful?


    Lucas marveled inwardly.


    Truly the household of a prestigious family...


    "If that''s the case, then a reward of Mora would suffice," Chunxiang said indifferently. "Why bring him into the estate?"


    "Well, you see," Zhang Luo quickly exined, "I noticed his skills are impressive, and I thought he might find some work here at the Ke residence."


    "There''s no need for that," Chunxiang rejected tly. "The household is currently hiring guards, but only those who are truly skilled. Not just any bumpkin can take the job. Besides, Miss Keqing is a formidable fighter herself and doesn''t need any guards."


    The maids of prestigious families sure are sharp-tongued...


    Before Lucas could respond, Zhang Luo patted him on the shoulder and said, "Don''t worry, Young Master Li won''t disappoint you! Why not test him yourself?"


    "Since you''re so insistent, I''ll humor you," Chunxiang beckoned to Lucas. "If you can withstand ten of my moves, I''ll let you stay."


    "Well..." Lucas scratched his head awkwardly. "Isn''t that a bit much?"


    "Oh?" Chunxiang sneered. "Afraid?"


    "Yeah..." Lucas nodded nonchntly. "I''m afraid that if I identally ruin such a pretty face, it would be quite a hassle."


    Lucas was an honest man, and his speech was straightforward.


    After all, the only move he knew was [Charging Fist], a technique that, if not used, was fine, but once unleashed, it would seriously injure someone. Even hulking Hilichurl brutes, weighing several hundred pounds, would be reduced to ash with one punch. If a delicate girl like Chunxiang were to take a hit, it would be more than just a matter of disfigurement.


    However, Chunxiang took his words as nothing but pure provocation.


    "Don''t look down on me!" A sh of anger crossed Chunxiang''s pretty face. "I''ve never cked off in my training so I can protect the young miss. Since that''s the case, let me show you my resolve!"


    As soon as she finished speaking, Chunxiang drew a longsword from her waist and charged at Lucas with impressive speed and agility. Her swordsmanship was exceptionally graceful.


    "White Clouds Emerge from the Peaks!"


    This was the opening move of the Cloud-Rising Sword Style. Despite her youth, Chunxiang had mastered the technique to perfection. The strike aimed directly at Lucas''s shoulder, intending to instantly incapacitate the boastful young man.


    [Diamond Body]


    Lucas didn''t dodge; instead, he activated the newly-learned Diamond Body. As Chunxiang''s sharp de made contact with his shoulder, it felt as though it struck a steel wall.


    This skill could reduce the force of an attack by 90%, and given Lucas''s enhanced defensive abilities, the sword strike felt no more significant than a needle prick.


    Moreover, the de didn''t even prate.


    With a "ng," half of the sword de shattered and flew off. Chunxiang''s hand went numb from the shock, and the longsword fell to the ground.


    [Charging Fist]


    At that moment, Chunxiang sensed a tremendous surge of energy rushing toward her. The previously harmless-looking young man now exuded an invisible aura of pressure. His fist, like an arrow loosed from a bow, shot towards her face.


    Though the punch stopped just in front of her nose, the force of the wind still caused Chunxiang''s hair to flutter, and her cheeks tingled slightly from the impact.


    If that punch had actuallynded on her face... the consequences would have been unimaginable.


    Being kind-hearted, Lucas naturally didn''t follow through with the punch. After all, this wasn''t a life-or-death battle, and his opponent wasn''t a Hilichurl brute but a delicate young maid.


    [Showed mercy and earned 200 virtue points]


    Wait... I can earn points like this too?


    Lucas slowly lowered his fist, smiling as he said, "See? I wasn''t wrong, was I?"


    "You... I..." Chunxiang''s face disyed aplex expression, but in the end, she sighed and admitted, "I lost."


    "Didn''t I tell you!" Zhang Luo pped his hands,ughing. "So, does this mean that Young Master Li has passed the test?"


    "What are you all doing here?"


    At that moment, a somewhatzy voice called out from behind Lucas.


    Before he could turn around, Chunxiang''s expression instantly shifted to one of respect as she said, "Young Miss! Old Zhang brought someone into the estate, and he''s here to apply for a guard position, so I sparred with him for a few moves..."


    Young Miss?


    Lucas''s heart skipped a beat.


    Could it be that the person behind him was... Keqing?


    Although he really wanted to turn around and see what Keqing looked like, for some reason, he suddenly felt too scared to do so.


    After all, in the [Viin Simtor], he had done many things that hurt her.


    "There''s no need for that. We already have enough guards in the household," Keqing said indifferently, showing no interest in the man standing with his back to her. "Besides, I don''t need someone weaker than me to protect me. Take him to the ounts room to collect some Mora, and then let him leave."


    It seemed that fate had never meant for him and Keqing to cross paths.


    A bitter smile appeared on Lucas''s face. He turned around and said to Keqing, "Thank you, Young Miss, for the reward."


    "No..." Keqing was about to dismiss him, but the moment she saw his face, it felt as though her heart had been struck by a heavy hammer.


    -------

 Chapter 12: Villain Simulator, Ch 12

    <h4>Chapter 12: Viin Simtor, Ch 12</h4>


    The man''s appearance was identical to that of the viin who had appeared in Keqing''s dream not long ago!


    There was no mistake¡ªKeqing would never forget that man''s face.


    Just as Lucas was about to turn and leave, Keqing suddenly spoke, "You... wait a moment."


    Lucas was slightly startled but turned around and said, "Is there something else, Miss Keqing?"


    Keqing gave him another nce, further confirming her suspicions. Trying her best to appear calm, she asked, "What... what''s your name?"


    "Lucas."


    Even the name was the same!


    What was going on?


    Countless questions flooded Keqing''s mind.


    Why was the man from her dream appearing in reality? Was there some connection between him and the viin in her dream? Could it be... that he was that viin?


    Naturally, Keqing couldn''t voice all the doubts racing through her mind. Instead, she rolled her eyes slightly and said, "Although my residence has no shortage of guards, I do need a servant to handle some chores. The jobes with room and board, full benefits, and a good sry. Are you interested?"


    Although Lucas had no idea why Keqing''s attitude had suddenly changed, he was thrilled to gain a ce to stay and the chance to be near her. He quickly nodded and said, "I''m willing."


    "But, Miss..." Chunxiang, Keqing''s maid, looked hesitant. "There have never been any men in your residence. Isn''t this a bit improper?"


    "What''s improper about it?" Keqing tilted her head. "Don''t worry. If anyone dares to do anything inappropriate, I can end them with a single sword strike. You know my skills."


    Keqing certainly had the right to say this.


    Despite her youth, she was already one of the Liyue Qixing, and the youngest in her family to ever master the Cloud-Rise Sword Art to such a high level. With the Vision she possessed, her strength was among the best, even at the level of *Genshin*.


    "Prepare some clothes for him, have him take a bath, and find him an empty room," Keqing ordered with a wave of her hand. "Tomorrow morning,e to my study to discuss your duties."


    ....


    After arranging everything for Lucas, Keqing finally returned to her study.


    On the clean and organized desky a sheet of rice paper, with a hastily sketched portrait on it¡ªthe likeness of the man she''d dreamed about. It was a rough sketch, drawn from memory during Keqing''s restless thoughts over the past few days.


    "What is going on?" Keqing murmured to herself, confusion clouding her expression. "He looks exactly like the viin from my dream, but judging by his behavior earlier, he doesn''t seem like a bad person... But then again, do viins wear the word ''bad'' on their foreheads?"


    People with Visions not only gained the ability to harness elemental power but also developed certain "traits" that set them apart from ordinary folk.


    For example... they could have prophetic dreams.


    These dreams couldn''t predict the future but could hint at certain "information" for the dreamer.


    And regarding her dream about Lucas, the information it might be hinting at could be: "Lucas is a viin who must be brought to justice."


    However, even though Keqing harbored a grudge against the viin in her dream, she couldn''t just conclude that the man she had just met, also named Lucas, was evil based on a dream. She certainly couldn''t cause him trouble over that.


    Despite being a nobledy, Keqing was not unreasonable.


    Everything... needed evidence.


    Exactly!


    No matter how well the man hid his true nature, as long as she could find evidence of his evil intentions, that would be enough.


    At that moment, a knock came from the door of her study.


    "Come in."


    At Keqing''s words, the door opened, and Chunxiang entered with her head lowered. "Miss, I''ve done what you asked. His clothes and room have been arranged, but..."


    "But what?" Keqing raised an eyebrow. "Speak freely, no need to hesitate."


    "Although it''s not right to talk about others behind their backs..." Chunxiang said thoughtfully, "I can''t shake the feeling that this Lucas... seems suspicious."


    "Oh?" Keqing''s interest was piqued. She quickly asked, "Suspicious in what way?"


    "First of all, his strength is unfathomable. I may not be a top-tier fighter, nowhere near your level, Miss, but among my peers, I''m not weak. Yet I couldn''t even scratch him," Chunxiang, the head maid of the household, had a sharp eye for details. "With his skills, he could easily be an adventurer or hold a position at a martial arts school. So why... would he choose to be a mere servant here?"


    True, even though the Keqing residence offered excellent benefits, being a servant wasn''t exactly a prestigious job.


    "Good point," Keqing nodded and asked, "So why do you think he''s chosen to work as a servant here?"


    "Hmph, if you ask me..." Chunxiang snorted, "I think he''s infatuated with your beauty, Miss, and that''s why he''s gone to such lengths to get close to you."


    Most women would shy away from such praise, but Keqing''s personality was straightforward. She was well aware of her own beauty and confident in it.


    After all, the number of young suitors who hade to propose to her over the years had practically worn down the threshold of her home.


    "That''s usible, but..." Keqing shook her head. "How would you prove it?"


    Even if Lucas was infatuated with her, as long as he didn''t act on it, she had no grounds to use him.


    "That''s easy." Chunxiang smiled knowingly. "Just find an attractive woman to test him."


    "Brilliant idea!" Keqing pped Chunxiang on the shoulder, smiling in approval. "Since it''s your idea, the task falls to you."


    "Alright, I¡ª" Chunxiang suddenly realized something was off and quickly protested, "Wait... me?"


    "It can''t be me, can it? That would be too obvious," Keqing shrugged. "Don''t worry, when you test him tonight, I''ll be right outside. If he tries anything inappropriate, I''ll catch him red-handed!"


    Keqing clenched her fists as she spoke, as if she already had the viin from her dream firmly in her grasp.


    Though Chunxiang felt a bit apprehensive, she couldn''t argue once Keqing had guaranteed her protection. She sighed and said, "I... I understand."


    "Eleven o''clock tonight, we''ll meet outside Lucas''s room." Keqing smirked coldly. "I refuse to believe I can''t catch you in the act!"


    Seeing the unsettling smile on Keqing''s face, Chunxiang couldn''t help but shiver. It was the first time she had ever seen the usuallyposed youngdy look like this.


    ---


    Later that night.


    "Ah, a bath really hits the spot," Lucas sighed with contentment as he stepped out of the bath. "Finally, I can sleep in a real bed tonight."


    Ever since he had crossed over into the world of Teyvat, Lucas had been either camping outdoors or bouncing along in carriages. He hadn''t had a good night''s sleep in ages.


    Tonight, he intended to rest well and start his work for Keqing tomorrow.


    In truth, with the system he possessed, Lucas had no shortage of money. The reason he stayed was to make up for the "sins" he hadmitted against Keqing in the Viin Simtor.


    Just as Lucas was about to lie down and sleep, a knock came at the door.


    Yawning, he asked, "Who is it?"


    "It''s me, Chunxiang." A sweet voice came from outside the door. "Master Li... are you still awake?"


    Outside, Chunxiang recited her rehearsed lines while gesturing toward the hiding Keqing.


    Although Chunxiang wasn''t as beautiful as Keqing, she was still quite attractive. A man alone in his room, approached by such a beautyte at night¡ªmost men wouldn''t be able to resist.


    However, from inside came Lucas''s response: "I''ve already gone to bed. Let''s talk tomorrow."


    Both Keqing and Chunxiang froze.


    Wait, what?


    Why wasn''t he following the script?


    This wasn''t because Lucas was particrly chaste; rather, in the Simtor, he had already spent countless "work exchanges" with Shenhe. Although what happened in the simtion didn''t affect his physical body, it had certainly satisfied him mentally.


    As the saying goes, only the bull gets tired, thend remains. (AN: nope there''s no saying like that from what I searched.. If you know lmk I''ll fix this)


    Right now, the bull needed a rest!


    However, Chunxiang and Keqing were not about to give up so easily.


    At Keqing''s nod of approval, Chunxiang continued, "I... I have something very important to discuss with you. Please... let me in."


    Something important?


    Hearing this, Lucas sighed in resignation and got up from his bed to open the door. At that moment, he wasn''t wearing a shirt, revealing the well-defined muscles from his regr exercise routine. His appearance was clean-cut, and his damp hair still had traces of water droplets, which made Chunxiang, who had almost never seen a man''s body, feel her heart race unexpectedly.


    No, no, no!


    Chunxiang quickly shook her head, reminding herself that she was here to help the youngdy test this man with suspicious intentions. How could she allow such thoughts to cross her mind?


    Lucas didn''t seem to notice Chunxiang''s inner turmoil. He simply asked, "What''s the matter?"


    "Are you just going to leave me standing outside?" Chunxiang gave him a yful nce and said, "Can''t we talk inside?"


    "That... doesn''t seem proper," Lucas scratched his cheek, feeling a little awkward. "It''ste at night, and if a man and woman are alone in the same room, it could damage your reputation if word got out."


    Hmph, what an act!


    Perhaps due to her preconceived notions, Chunxiang had already convinced herself that Lucas was a bad guy. She assumed he was just ying hard to get, so she responded sweetly, "It''s fine. If you have nothing to hide, what''s there to worry about? You''re not a bad person, after all."


    That''s right!


    I''m not a bad person!


    Chunxiang''s words hit a nerve with Lucas. After ying the viin twice in the Viin Simtor, he desperately needed someone to affirm that he wasn''t actually bad.


    "Good point!" Lucas nodded. "Come in."


    With that, he stepped back and allowed Chunxiang into the room.


    First step:plete!


    Feeling triumphant, Chunxiang couldn''t help but smile. She was convinced she was about to expose this man''s hypocrisy.


    "So..." After Chunxiang entered the room, Lucas asked, "What''s this important matter you wanted to talk about?"


    "No need to rush..." Chunxiang took a deep breath and slowly unbuttoned two buttons on her cor, revealing a glimpse of her fair neck. She fanned herself with her cor and said, "It''s so hot in here..."


    [Based onmon sense, I think this woman is trying to seduce you.]


    The system''s voice suddenly rang in Lucas''s head.


    Stop talking nonsense!


    Lucas silently replied in his mind, telling himself that Chunxiang was a proper youngdy from a noble family.


    But despite his internal protest, his eyes couldn''t help but wander to Chunxiang''s exposed neck.


    Noticing Lucas''s gaze, Chunxiang felt a bit shy, but more than that, she was pleased with herself. She teased, "Why... why are you staring at my neck?"


    "Well..." Lucas said with a straight face, "Can I... touch your neck?"


    "Wha... what?" Chunxiang hadn''t expected Lucas to be so direct. Although she felt a little embarrassed, she blushed and, determined to help Lady Keqing expose him, said, "Fine... okay."


    After all, Keqing was hiding right outside. If Lucas dared toy a hand on her, Keqing woulde to her rescue.


    ---


    Ten minutester.


    "Achoo!"


    A cool night breeze blew, causing Keqing, who was hiding outside, to sneeze adorably.


    Strange...


    Why had so much time passed, and yet there was no noise from inside?


    Suddenly, Keqing''s face grew tense with worry.


    Could it be that... Lucas had already subdued Chunxiang and was doing something unspeakable to her?


    Although Keqing and Chunxiang were officially master and servant, they had grown up together, sharing a bond as close as sisters. The thought that Chunxiang might be in danger made Keqing unable to sit still. She crouched low and sneaked to the door of Lucas''s room, pressing her ear against the door to listen in.


    Keqing had excellent hearing, and sure enough, she soon heard Chunxiang and Lucas''s voicesing from inside the room.


    Chunxiang: "Will... will it hurt?"


    Lucas: "For the first time, it might hurt a little, but I''ll be as gentle as I can."


    Chunxiang: "Really? You''re not... lying to me, are you?"


    -----

 Chapter 13: Villain Simulator, Ch 13

    <h4>Chapter 13: Viin Simtor, Ch 13</h4>


    Lucas: "How could that be? I''ve done this many times before, and every time the other person said it felt great, wanting more."


    Chunxiang: "But... how do I know you''re not lying to me?"


    Lucas: "Didn''t thosest few moves feel good?"


    Chunxiang: "Well... they were quite pleasant. Fine, go ahead, but if you hurt me, I won''t let you off!"


    Lucas: "Don''t worry. Turn your back to me, I''ll start from behind."


    Chunxiang: "Mm..."


    Oh no!


    What kind of awful conversation is this?


    Even though Chunxiang''s tone didn''t sound coerced, Keqing knew very well that Chunxiang was quite naive and had little contact with men from outside. It wasn''t impossible that she could be deceived by sweet talk.


    The thought that Chunxiang might be about to fall into Lucas''s trap was enough to make Keqing lose herposure. She kicked open the door with a loud bang, angrily shouting, "Let go of that girl... huh?"


    However, upon entering the room, Keqing didn''t find the inappropriate scene she had imagined.


    Instead, she saw Chunxiang sitting on a chair with her back to Lucas, while Lucas gently massaged the back of her neck. Chunxiang, meanwhile, wore a look of enjoyment on her face.


    Startled by Keqing''s sudden intrusion, both Lucas and Chunxiang froze in ce, the three of them staring at one another in confusion. After a moment, Keqing awkwardly cleared her throat and asked, "What... what are you two doing?"


    "Miss!" Chunxiang''s face flushed as she hurriedly exined, "Young Master Lucas said my neck was stiff and that if I left it unchecked, it might be bad for my health, so he kindly offered me a massage."


    Well now...


    A moment ago, she was calling him "that guy," but now, suddenly, it''s "Young Master Lucas"?


    How did that change so fast?


    "Exactly," Lucas said with a smile, seemingly oblivious to any awkwardness. "My grandfather is a well-known massage therapist, and this is a skill passed down through my family."


    "Yes, yes!" Chunxiang quickly nodded in agreement, "Young Master Lucas''s skills are extraordinary..."


    "Ahem!"


    Keqing coughed heavily, shooting Chunxiang a sharp look. Chunxiang then seemed to realize that she hadn''te all the way here in the middle of the night just to enjoy a massage. Her face flushed even more, and she fell silent.


    "Sorry, I seem to have misunderstood," Keqing said with an embarrassed expression. "I happened to pass by and overheard some unusual sounds from this room, so I barged in. I hope you don''t mind." Then, turning to Chunxiang, she added sternly, "And you! Coming to a man''s room in the middle of the night¡ªwhat are you thinking?"


    Upon hearing this, Chunxiang felt incredibly wronged. ''Wasn''t this your idea? And now that things don''t look suspicious, you''re ming me for it?''


    "No, no, it''s alright," Lucas said with a smile, showing no sign of taking offense. "Miss Chunxiang has been quite considerate, perhaps wanting to exin the rules of the residence to me so I wouldn''t identally offend anyone. That might be why she visited at thiste hour."


    This guy...


    Keqing frowned slightly, unsure whether Lucas was being naive or just cleverly making up an excuse for Chunxiang.


    Either way, one thing was clear: Lucas hadn''t done anything inappropriate to Chunxiang.


    "Y-yes, that''s exactly it!" Chunxiang quickly nodded again. "That''s what happened!"


    "But you still didn''t need toe sote at night. What if someone finds out and starts gossiping? What then?" Keqing said tly. "Alright, let''s go. You''reing with me."


    "Yes, Miss!" Chunxiang stood up immediately, but as she left, she couldn''t resist ncing back at Lucas and saying, "We''ll continue next time..."


    "Are youing or not?" Keqing shot her a re, causing Chunxiang to quickly scurry out of the room after her.


    A little whileter, Chunxiang and Keqing found themselves back in the study.


    Bang!


    Keqing mmed the door shut and frowned. "Chunxiang... I sent you to probe Lucas, so what on earth were you doing?"


    "You can''t me me! His massage skills are just so good..." Chunxiang sheepishly stuck out her tongue. "Miss, you should try it sometime. It feels like all my muscles werepletely rejuvenated¡ªso rxing."


    "I would never do such a thing!" Keqing''s face reddened slightly. "And don''t let his innocent act fool you. Maybe he''s onto you and is just pretending to be harmless."


    "Maybe you''re overthinking it?" Chunxiang shook her head. "Even when he was massaging me just now, he wasn''t the least bit inappropriate. He might actually be a good person, just as his name suggests."


    Keqing felt something strange stir inside her. Just a short while ago, Chunxiang had shared her suspicions that Lucas was a scoundrel, but now, after spending just a little time in his room, she seemed to be defending him.


    "Forget it," Keqing said, shaking her head. "Time will tell. Lucas... I''ll catch you slipping one day!"


    Meanwhile, back in his room, Lucasy down again, his sleepiness mostly gone after the littlemotion earlier.


    "Whatever, I can''t sleep anyway..." He sat up and called out, "You there?"


    [Just ask what you need. Don''t keep checking if I''m around, especially if you''re nning to borrow money. Should I say yes or no in that case?]


    To be fair, this system had quite a personality.


    Most systems served their hosts like dutiful servants, always eager to please. His, however, was more like a rebellious child, always talking back.


    "Hey..."


    [What do you mean ''hey''? I have a name.]


    Lucas said casually. "You know, since we''ll probably be spending a lot of time together, why don''t I give you a proper name?"


    [Fine, as long as your naming skills don''t make me regret it.]


    With a sharp tongue like that... maybe "Orochimaru" would be a fitting name?


    "Ahem..." Lucas nodded. "How about ''Xiong''?"


    [...]


    [I can''t believe I expected something decent from you. Fine, just call me Xiao Xi.]


    "Why not Xiao Tong?" Lucas teased.


    [If you keep going, I might just ''stab'' you.]


    "Alright, alright, Xiao Xi it is." Lucas chuckled. "Is the cooldown over? I''d like to start the next simtion."


    [Of course. It''s nice to see you eager.]


    [Command received. Life Simtor will now begin.]


    [Please choose three talents from the following options. After the simtion, one will be randomly retained as a permanent talent.]


    [Musical Genius (Green): You have better-than-average musical talent.]


    [Dual Citizenship (Green): You can hold citizenship in two countries simultaneously.]


    [Masochist (Green): You derive pleasure from being mistreated.]


    [Medical Sage (Gold): You have an extraordinary medical gift, destined to change the course of history through medicine.]


    [Die of Old Age (Green): Unless you are killed, you will only die of natural aging.]


    [Strong at Fifty (Green): After the age of fifty, your stats will steadily improve.]


    [Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (White): You will develop obsessivepulsive tendencies.]


    [Unmotivated (White): Youck the drive to aplish anything.]


    [Ambitions of Chancellor Cao (Blue): You gain extra rewards when pursuing romantically involved individuals.]


    [Minotaur yer (Green): You enjoy killing minotaurs.]


    Wow!


    A golden talent!


    Finally, on his third run of the Viin Simtor, Lucas saw his first golden talent.


    But it''s Medical Sage, huh?


    Though a gold-tier talent, it didn''t seem to directly enhance his strength. It was entirely a support ability. Still, for someone like Lucas, who enjoyed helping others, this talent suited him well. Though he wasn''t a medical student, he had learned some massage and chiropractic techniques from a family member who was a doctor. Now, with the chance to be a legendary healer, how could he pass it up?


    As for the other two talents...


    Should he pick two toplement Medical Sage? Or should he keep just one and focus on choosing a permanent talent?


    Wait...


    Suddenly, a sh of insight crossed Lucas''s mind.


    If his hunch was right, this selection could make him invincible...


    "I choose [Medical Sage], [Die of Old Age], and [Strong at Fifty]," Lucas said.


    [You''re not picking a blue talent? (Annoyed)]


    "Hey,e on! That ''Ambitions of Chancellor Cao'' is totally absurd!" Lucas replied, halfughing, half-exasperated. "The activation condition is even harder than the previous [Mischievous Shiba Inu]!"


    Indeed, with [Mischievous Shiba Inu], all you had to do was flirt to get a reward. But with this one, you not only had to flirt, you also had to flirt with someone else''s partner.


    Of course, there was logic behind Lucas''s choice of these two green talents.


    [Die of Old Age] may seem unremarkable¡ª"unless killed, you''ll only die of natural aging"¡ªbut that also meant that as long as the character in the simtor didn''t do anything reckless, they wouldn''t die from some random ident.


    After all, there were too many unpredictable factors in the Viin Simtor. You could even get hit by a falling flowerpot while walking down the street. With this talent, paired with [Medical Sage] and [Strong at Fifty], if the character made it past sixty years old, they would only get stronger!


    It seems when choosing talents, you can''t just focus on rarity and effects. If two talentsplement each other, they might create a "1 + 1 ¡Ý 2" synergy.


    This isn''t even the Viin Simtor anymore; it''s basically the Retirement Simtor!


    In Lucas''s mind, he pictured an elderly, kind-hearted doctor murmuring, "The older you get, the more you need to nourish yourself!"


    [Talents selected. Generating character temte.]


    [Life simtion is about to begin.]


    [Age 0: You were born in a vige near Mondstadt. Your father is a vige doctor, and your mother is an ordinary farmer.]


    This start seemed pretty normal.


    In previous life simtions, Lucas either came from a wealthy merchant family or a schrly household, which made it easier for him to y the "viin" role. This time, though, being an ordinary viger meant it would be hard to do anything viinous, right?


    [Age 1: A new neighbor moved in next door. They are tenants of a Mondstadt noble family and have a son the same age as you named Rostam.]


    Rostam?


    Why does that name sound familiar?


    Although Lucas wasn''t a "lore master," he did remember a few well-known characters from game history.


    Wait a second...


    Wolf Pup Rostam!


    That''s right, Lucas suddenly recalled that this was the same Rostam who, 500 years ago, was the deputy leader of the Knights of Favonius and the founder of the Wind Swordsmanship style!


    It''s possible the name could be a coincidence, but given how the life simtor usually works, it''s unlikely they would assign an NPC with the same name as an important historical figure.


    Which means...


    "Xiao Xi! Is this life simtion... taking ce 500 years ago?"


    [All life simtion timelines are randomized. The exact time is up to the host to figure out.]


    As expected... trying to get any crucial information out of the system was nearly impossible.


    Oh well, better keep going.


    [Age 2: Under your father''s guidance, you began learning about pharmacology. Surprisingly, you showed a natural talent for it. Even before you could speak clearly, you were already able to identify various medicinal herbs and their properties.]


    [Age 3: Since you lived nearby, you quickly became good friends with Rostam. Unlike you, who preferred peace and quiet, Rostam was energetic and loved hearing stories of heroes. He told you that one day he would be a great hero protecting Mondstadt.]


    [Age 4: You, too, wanted to be the hero of Rostam''s dreams. However, being frail and often sick, you weren''t suited for martial training. So, you focused even more on medicine, hoping to use it to help others.]


    Reading this, Lucas was nearly moved to tears. This is the ideal life simtion!


    Helping others through medicine, saving lives with golden needles¡ªthere''s no way this could turn into a viin''s story!


    [Age 5: You adopted a pet rabbit and named it "Snowball." However, your purpose for raising it wasn''t because you liked animals, but to conduct various medical experiments on it. Your father, the vige doctor, could no longer satisfy your thirst for knowledge.]


    -----


    Author''s Note: Well sorry for my bad humour... I mean by the orochimaru joke xD.. just trying to fit something cuz I dont understand the chinese stuff they use even when i search it..


    Xiong = Bear


    Xiao = Small or Little


    Xi = Hope or Rare


    Tong = Red or Beautiful


    If you have a better suggestion for the system name please tell so I will consider changing it.

 Chapter 14: Villain Simulator, Ch 14

    <h4>Chapter 14: Viin Simtor, Ch 14</h4>


    [Age 6: You are an undeniable genius in the field of medicine (Talent [Medical Sage] activated). Even without guidance, your surgical skills improve rapidly. You can even perfectly stitch back your rabbit Snowball''s severed leg. Your friend Rostam asionally wonders why your rabbit never seems to grow. You always smile and remain silent, knowing that this isn''t the original Snowball anymore.]


    Wait a minute, something feels off...


    Is this heading in a strange direction?


    [Age 7: While ying in the forest with Rostam, you bothe across a strange man digging a grave. Rostam wants to stop him, but when the man turns around, you both see a face so terrifying it''s impossible to describe. Even the brave Rostam feels fear and pulls you away to run. You tell the vigers, but no one believes you. Afterward, you frequently dream of the man''s face and his eerie smile.]


    [Age 8: Your medical skills have already surpassed your father''s, but he disapproves of your "novel" methods, feeling they go against traditional medicine. You two often argue over this.]


    [Age 9: The bullies from a neighboring vige steal your rabbit Snowball. Though frustrated by the loss of this "medical tool," you don''t dwell on it. That evening, a battered Rostam returns Snowball to you, smiling. Youter find out he fought off ten kids to get your rabbit back.]


    [Age 10: Rostam''s swordsmanship is as exceptional as your talent for medicine. Despitecking a skilled teacher, he finds ways to train himself. One day, during training, he identally breaks his leg. The injury is so severe that even your father, the vige''s only doctor, believes he''ll be crippled. But you refuse to give up. Using every method you know, you miraculously heal his leg. Touched by your efforts, Rostam asks to be sworn brothers. Your choice is...]


    [1. Happily ept]


    [2. Politely refuse]


    Rostam, the future Wolf Pup, wants to be my sworn brother?


    Once he bes sessful, won''t I benefit too?


    Without much thought, Lucas replied, "Choose the first!"


    [You happily ept Rostam''s invitation, and you both vow to protect Mondstadt together in the future.]


    [Age 11: You and Rostam be well-known as close brothers. People say that you two are destined to be a great knight and doctor pair.]


    [Age 12: Your research in medicine hits a bottleneck. No matter how talented you are, outdated equipment and limited resources slow your progress. You know that only by continuing your studies at Mondstadt''s Favonius Academy can you improve further. However, the tuition is beyond your family''s means.]


    [Age 13: The vige chief raises funds to support one person for higher education. However, the money can only send either you or Rostam. To be fair, the chief decides to hold a lottery. The night before the drawing, Rostam tells you he ns to let you win and advises you to choose the stick on the right.]


    [Feeling conflicted about Rostam''s words, you prepare for the lottery the next day. Facing the two sticks, you decide...]


    [1. Choose the right stick]


    [2. Choose the left stick]


    What... do I really need to choose?


    Is this testing whether I trust Rostam?


    Indeed, Rostam is a good friend and brother, but this lottery determines both your futures. Both of you are extremely talented, and the one who wins will have a bright future, while the other will likely remain in the impoverished vige, leading a mundane life.


    "I... I''ll choose the right stick."


    Finally, Lucas decided to trust Rostam.


    [You choose the right stick, but it is Rostam who wins the lottery. In that moment, you are deeply shocked. If he had asked, you might have given up the spot for him willingly, but being betrayed by your most trusted friend nts a seed of doubt in your heart. From then on, you decide never to trust anyone again.]


    [Achievement Unlocked: Lie Eater]


    [Effect: When you lie, there is a 10% chance the other person will believe you unconditionally. When others lie to you, there is a 10% chance you will see through their lies.]


    So... I was betrayed?


    Lucas felt an overwhelming sense of disappointment. It wasn''t about winning the opportunity, but the betrayal by his closest friend that was difficult to ept.


    [Devastated, you shut yourself away. Rostam visits many times, but you refuse to see him. Eventually, he leaves for Mondstadt without saying goodbye.]


    [Age 14: You don''t let the incident defeat you. Instead, you resolve to master unparalleled medical skills and someday seek "revenge" on Rostam in Mondstadt.]


    [You build a "medicalb" in a cave outside the vige, filled with various animals for research. You begin experimenting with organ transnts on rabbits but can''t achieve sess. Exhausted after long hours of study, you fall asleep at theb.]


    [When you groggily wake up, you find someone standing at your operating table. Before you can shout, you''re shocked to see that they''vepleted the surgery you couldn''t. To your further astonishment, the person helping you is none other than the grave digger you encountered years ago. You''ve never forgotten his decayed, twisted face.]


    [Despite your fear, your curiosity gets the better of you. You ask about his background and where he learned his medical skills. He tells you he was once a healer at Favonius Cathedral but was banished for studying forbidden medical techniques. Impressed by your talent, he offers to take you on as a disciple. Your choice is...]


    [1. Refuse in outrage]


    [2. ept eagerly]


    A strange man suddenly offering to be my teacher?


    This feels like a clich¨¦ from a third-rate martial arts novel. For a moment, Lucas didn''t know what to choose.


    Refuse?


    Wouldn''t that provoke him to kill me?


    After all, I didn''t pick the [Try Again] talent this time, and the [Die of Old Age] talent can''t prevent me from being murdered.


    "I... I''ll choose the second."


    No choice. Better to ept for now and figure out an escape nter.


    [You ept his offer to be his disciple. He is delighted and promises to teach you everything he knows.]


    [Age 15: The man, who calls himself the "Mad Doctor," rapidly improves your medical skills. He tells you that the ultimate medical art is resurrection¡ªthe ability to bring the dead back to life. At first, you think he''s delusional.]


    [Until one day, the Mad Doctor revives a rat that had been dead for half a day in front of you. You have no choice but to believe him.]


    Resurrection? This isn''t medicine¡ªit''s practically magic!


    [Age 16: The Mad Doctor can resurrect many animals, but he can''t bring humans back to life. To continue his research, he often digs up fresh graves and steals bodies. You finally understand that years ago, he wasn''t just a grave robber¡ªhe was a body thief.]


    [Though you know it''s wrong, the allure of fresh "medical tools" proves too tempting. As a medical fanatic, you give in and begin using bodies for your research.]


    [Age 17: You''ve nearly learned all the Mad Doctor''s knowledge. He tells you that his most important research notes are hidden in a secret chamber at Favonius Cathedral. He hopes you can enter as a physician to retrieve them. You tell him that youck the qualifications and money to enter, but he just smirks and tells you to wait patiently.]


    [Age 18: A sudden gue sweeps through your vige. Despite your years of medical training, you are powerless against it. Soon, nearly all the vigers, including your parents, sumb to the disease. Strangely, you remainpletely unaffected.]


    [Looking at the bodies of your parents, friends, and fellow vigers, you feel despair for the first time. However, as a physician, you quickly regain yourposure, realizing the bodies must be burned to prevent further spread of the disease.]


    [You set your home and your parents'' bodies aze. As the fire consumes the house, an old, unstable beam copses, knocking you unconscious.]


    Could it be? Am I going to die here?


    [However, luck is on your side. Just as the mes begin to engulf your body, you hear footsteps outside. Before losing consciousness, you see a group of people in white uniforms pulling you from the fire ([Die of Old Age] talent activated¡ªyou do not die in the fire).]


    Phew...


    Seeing this message, Lucas finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    It seems picking that talent was the right choice. Otherwise, I might have been burned to death in an ident.


    [You don''t know how long you were unconscious, but you eventually wake up in a hospital room at Favonius Cathedral. A nun informs you that they arrived toote to save anyone else, and you are the sole survivor of the vige.]


    [Although you survived, half of your face was disfigured by the mes, leaving you with a hideous appearance¡ªalmost as terrifying as the Mad Doctor.]


    [In the spirit of humanitarianism, Favonius Cathedral sponsors your stay in Mondstadt and allows you to choose a profession. You express your desire to remain at the cathedral as a physician. Your exceptional medical skills easily earn everyone''s approval. You never expected to fulfill your "dream" this way.]


    [Age 19: To hide your burned face, you create a mask for yourself.]


    [Age 20: Your medical expertise quickly establishes you at Favonius Cathedral. You are granted the opportunity to further your studies. The wealth of knowledge and advanced equipment help you temporarily forget the pain of losing your home.]


    [Age 21: One night, a mysterious figure stops you on your way home. To your shock, it''s the Mad Doctor! He reveals that his n seeded. The gue that destroyed your vige was his doing, and he was the one who alerted the cathedral. The reason you survived was that he secretly gave you the antidote, ensuring you would be the sole survivor and gain entry to Favonius Cathedral.]


    [You are in disbelief. You want to turn him in, but he threatens that if he is captured, your connection as his disciple will be exposed, linking you to the gue. Everything you''ve worked for will be stripped away. Faced with his threat, your choice is...]


    [1. Compromise]


    [2. Refuse]


    This plot twist left Lucas momentarily speechless.


    Refusing would be the morally right choice, but doing so would expose your rtionship with the Mad Doctor, and the gue could be traced back to you.


    "I''ll choose... the first."


    It seems I''m destined to walk the path of darkness.


    [You agree to the Mad Doctor''s demands and promise to help him as much as possible.]


    [Age 22: You easily gain control of the morgue. At night, you and the Mad Doctor experiment on bodies, while during the day, you act as the kind and gentle "masked physician."]


    [Age 23: The constant switching of identities and immense pressure wear you down. One day, while walking through Mondstadt''s za, you hear a beautiful song. Drawn by the sound, you find a stunning girl singing in the square. Her heavenly voice soothes your soul.]


    [Age 24: You return to listen to the girl''s song every day, finding it to be your onlyfort. You learn that her name is Rosalyne-Kruzchka Lohefalter. For the first time, your heart stirs with emotion. However, youck the courage to approach her. With your disfigured face and dirty hands, how could you possibly be worthy of such a pure and beautiful woman?]


    Rosalyne?


    Lucas frowned.


    Isn''t that the real name of "The Lady," one of the Fatui Harbingers?


    This can''t be... unrequited love, can it?


    [Age 25: One day, you go to Mondstadt''s za as usual, but Rosalyne''s song is absent. You see her talking happily with a man dressed as a Favonius knight. When you see his face, your breath catches¡ªit''s your former brother, Rostam! Now tall and handsome, he has be a rising star in the Knights of Favonius, admired by many women in Mondstadt.]


    [You can see the mutual admiration in their eyes, and your heart burns with rage. Rostam stole your future, and now he''s taking the woman you love.]


    [You think to yourself, if only you were as handsome as Rostam, you could win Rosalyne''s heart. And so, a bold idea takes root.]


    [Age 26: You master the art of stic surgery and give yourself a strikingly handsome face. Excited, you go to the za to find Rosalyne. Along the way, many women gasp at your good looks, but in your heart, there is only one woman... Rosalyne!]


    [Confidently, you approach Rosalyne and present her with flowers, confessing your love. To your dismay, she politely rejects you, telling you she already has someone she loves.]


    [In that moment, your heart shatters. From that day forward, you live recklessly, trying to forget Rosalyne. You pursue many women, relying on your handsome face to easily charm them. Whether young or mature, slender or full-figured, single or married, you ept them all. Yet, the more women you seduce, the stronger your desire for Rosalyne grows.]


    [Age 27: Rostam earns the title of "Wolf Pup," and together with Arundolyn, the "Lion of Light," they be the most celebrated young knights of the Favonius Order. You can''t help but wonder: if you had been chosen that day, would you now be the one receiving such honors and Rosalyne''s love?]


    [Age 28: You and the Mad Doctor make another breakthrough in your medical research¡ªyou sessfully resurrect a corpse! Although the body only survives for three minutes, the Mad Doctor is ecstatic. However, you suddenly have an even crazier idea... What if Rosalyne dies, and you resurrect her? Wouldn''t that mean you could be with her forever?]


    [You know this thought is insane. You''re not even sure whether your obsession with Rosalyne is due to an overwhelming love for her or simply a desire to take revenge on Rostam... or perhaps it''s a mix of both.]


    [Age 29: Rosalyne is preparing to leave for distant Sumeru to study abroad. Rostam gives her a small hourss as a parting gift, telling her that when the sand runs out, it will be time for her to return to Mondstadt.]


    [You stand at a distance, high atop a tower, looking down at their farewell scene with a cold smile on your face. You''ve made up your mind¡ªno matter what, you are going to take Rosalyne away.]


    Oh no, things have gonepletely off track.


    Honestly, reading this part of the story left Lucas with mixed feelings.


    Without a doubt, for the protagonist in this simtion, this isn''t a typical love triangle, because there was hardly any real connection between Rosalyne and Lucas to begin with.


    They''re a perfect couple, so what does it have to do with me?


    Why bother with romance at all?


    Lucas originally nned for this life simtion to quietly coast until he turned sixty and achieve a peaceful ending.


    [You decide to leave Mondstadt and follow Rosalyne to Sumeru. That night, you decide to settle everything. You find the Mad Doctor and bring plenty of food and wine, saying you want to celebrate your recent research sess. The Mad Doctor ispletely unsuspecting¡ªafter all, to him, you''ve always been nothing more than a pawn to be used at will.]


    [Youce the food and wine with a carefully prepared poison. The poison is so subtle that even the highly skilled Mad Doctor doesn''t notice. When he wakes up, he finds himself trapped inside a giant jar, with only his head exposed.]


    [You tell the Mad Doctor that you''ve amputated his arms and legs, and that the nutrient solution in the jar will keep him alive for years. The Mad Doctor realizes you''re telling the truth. He rages, curses, and pleads, ultimately begging for a quick death. Faced with the man who ruined your life but also gave you everything you have, your choice is...]


    [1. Kill him]


    [2. Let him suffer]


    "The second one."


    This time, Lucas didn''t hesitate.


    [You ignore the Mad Doctor''s pleas. Not only that, but the toxin you used will gradually rob him of his senses. Soon, he will live in a world without sound, sight, or taste, isted for years, perhaps decades. Watching his face contorted in agony, you taste the sweet wine of revenge for the first time¡ªand it is intoxicating.]


    [You apply to the Sumeru Academia for advanced medical studies, and your application is promptly epted.]


    [You travel to Sumeru and sessfully enroll in the Academia''s medical faculty. Your handsome looks and extraordinary medical talent quickly make you a celebrity on campus. Countless female students are captivated by you, but your eyes are always on Rosalyne.]


    [You easily find opportunities to work with Rosalyne and tell her that you came all the way to Sumeru just for her.]


    [Though Rosalyne continues to think of Rostam, she is touched by your devotion. While she rejects your romantic advances again, being in a foreignnd, she still bes your friend.]


    [Age 30: Your excellent academic performance earns you a prestigious degree from the Sumeru Academia in just one year. Your intelligence and charm earn you a new title¡ªDoctor.]


    [You thought that bying to the Academia and staying close to Rosalyne, you could slowly win her over. However, you are disappointed. She constantly pulls out the hourss that Rostam gave her, counting the days until her return to Mondstadt.]

 Chapter 15: Villain Simulator, Ch 15

    <h4>Chapter 15: Viin Simtor, Ch 15</h4>


    [That crazy idea resurfaces in your mind. If you turn Rosalyne into a corpse and then resurrect her, she''ll belong to you forever.]


    [However, your technique for reviving corpses isn''t perfect yet. To ensure your n goes off without a hitch, you dive back into research on modifying and reviving human bodies. Under the guise of conducting dissections, you acquire numerous corpses for your experiments.]


    [The equipment and resources at the Sumeru Academia are far more advanced than those at Favonius Cathedral. You pour all your energy into this research and finally seed in reviving a female corpse that had been dead for just one day. You are ecstatic¡ªnot only because you are closer to your goal of reviving Rosalyne, but because you''ve aplished a medical miracle! As a doctor, you have cured the one ''disease'' no other doctor could¡ªdeath.]


    [Achievement unlocked: Necromancer]


    [Reward: Resurrection Spell]


    [Effect: Revive a corpse and make it your servant.]


    Wow, can I really do something this godlike?


    Although Lucas was shocked, he couldn''t help but feel that this was a bit too fantastical.


    Sure, in the magical world of Teyvat, reviving the dead might not be impossible, but can mere medical skills really resurrect a corpse?


    Or is this resurrection merely granting a body the ability to move again, without restoring its consciousness?


    [Now, all that remains is the final step: killing Rosalyne as gently as possible to preserve the perfect corpse. You must meticulously n how to execute this without causing damage.]


    [However, just as you''re preparing to carry out the final step of your n, your research on reviving corpses is discovered by the Academia. They deem your work as sphemous and a vition of divine will. You are branded a heretic and permanently expelled from the Academia.]


    [Being cast out by the Academia doesn''t bother you in the slightest. After all, there is nothing left for you to learn there. Your only regret is that you couldn''t get your hands on Rosalyne. As you leave the Academia, you notice the conflicted look in Rosalyne''s eyes¡ªdisappointment, sorrow... and a hint of disgust.]


    [You return to Mondstadt, but word of your disgraceful actions has already reached Favonius Cathedral. Stripped of your title and reputation, you go from being a revered doctor to a reviled outcast. You are forced to hide in Mondstadt''s slums, eking out a living by treating the poor.]


    This is... too tragic, isn''t it?


    Sure, it''s all the protagonist''s fault for his downfall, but still, the ups and downs of his life in this simtion are incredibly harsh.


    [Age 31: The war in Khaenri''ah breaks out. Arundolyn, the Lion of Light, leads a contingent of Favonius Knights to battle. Meanwhile, Rostam, the Wolf Pup, stays behind to defend Mondstadt. A disaster soon befalls Mondstadt as the poisonous dragon Durin descends upon the city. To protect Mondstadt, Rostam leads his forces into battle. You volunteer as a military doctor, despite being despised for your past. With the shortage of medical personnel, your application is reluctantly epted.]


    [The battle is brutal. Durin''s immense power takes a heavy toll on the Knights of Favonius. However, your extraordinary medical skills save many lives. Rostam begins to appreciate your work, though he doesn''t recognize you as his once-close "brother" due to your altered appearance.]


    [Many times, Rostam is brought to you, critically injured. You have countless chances to end his life without suspicion. Yet, you know that if Rostam dies, no one will be able to stop Durin, and both Mondstadt and you will face certain destruction. So, you tirelessly treat Rostam''s wounds. In turn, Rostam saves you from danger multiple times.]


    [Finally, when Durin is in atop the frozen mountain and the disaster ends, Rostam lies fatally wounded. When you find him, he is on the verge of death.]


    [Forced switch to immersive mode.]


    Wait a second!


    Can it really switch to immersive mode on its own?


    Before Lucas couldin, the scene in front of him changed to a snow-covered valley. However, the once-pristine snow is now soaked with dark red blood, and countless bodies are piled around. In front of you lies a bloodied and broken Rostam, his arm torn off, his body in ruins.


    It''s worth mentioning that while the *Viin Simtor* is text-based, the protagonist''s experiences and emotions affect Lucas to a certain degree.


    For others, it may just be simple text, but as the story unfolds, the protagonist''s life shes before Lucas''s eyes like a movie.


    So even though this is his "first time" meeting Rostam, Lucas feelsplicated emotions towards him.


    "Cough... cough..." Rostam, his face pale, manages to smile when he sees you. "I knew... you''de to save me."


    Lucas is momentarily silent. Durin is dead, and he doesn''t even need to lift a finger for Rostam to slowly die.


    Yet, there is no sense of satisfaction in his heart.


    "I''m not here to save you," Lucas coldly responds, slipping into his viinous role. "You''re already beyond saving."


    "I know," Rostam says softly, "I never nned to make it back alive. Brother, it''s been eighteen years... I''ve always wanted to apologize to you."


    "You... you know who I am?" Lucas is shocked. "When did you recognize me?"


    "That day... when I saw your silhouette in the square, I knew right away," Rostam''s voice grows weaker. "So, I started going to the square every day, hoping for a chance to apologize... but instead, I ended up meeting Rosalyne. Do you really think I went there just to hear her sing? No, I was always looking for a chance... to make things right with you."


    What?


    What kind of plot twist is this?


    So, all this time, I was watching Rosalyne, Rosalyne was watching Rostam, and Rostam... was watching me?


    This rtionship triangle is way too tangled!


    "And what of it!" Lucas bursts out. "I trusted youpletely... and you betrayed me!"


    "It was the vige chief," Rostam replies calmly. "He rigged the lottery. The vige needed a knight to rise to prominence more than it needed a doctor. But yearster, when I returned, the vige had already been wiped out by the gue. I thought... you had died too."


    So... that''s how it was?


    In an instant, everything that had tormented Lucas for years seemed like a cruel joke.


    "I don''t expect your forgiveness," Rostam says as he closes his eyes. "You can hold onto your hatred for me. But please... take care of Rosalyne."


    With those final words, Rostam''s cold hand falls lifelessly to his side.


    Lucas stares at his corpse, and for a moment, he''s back in their carefree childhood, living peacefully in the vige. Now, the once-dreaming knight Rostam can never raise his sword again, and the once-aspiring doctor Lucas has be a twisted, evil physician.


    "Heh... hahahahaha!"


    After a long silence, Lucas suddenly bursts into maniacalughter. His handsome face distorts with the intensity of his expression.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll ''live'' for you."


    For some reason, every time Lucas enters "immersive mode," he feels like he''s bing a different person.


    In the previous simtion, Lucas had felt an intense desire to possess Shenhe.


    Now, as he looks at the decaying, ckened body of Rostam, poisoned by Durin''s blood, Lucas''s feelings are equallyplicated.


    No matter the cause, his life had undeniably been "stolen" by Rostam.


    Lucas knows deep down that Rosalyne''s love is for Rostam, not for him, this twisted and self-loathing man.


    And so, a new, even more insane idea takes root in his mind¡ªone far crazier than resurrecting Rosalyne''s corpse.


    Lucas swiftly draws a sharp scalpel from his medical kit. In swordsmanship, Rostam was a master, but even ten Rostams couldn''t wield a scalpel as deftly as Lucas.


    Lucas ced the scalpel against Rostam''s jaw and, with the precision of cutting a priceless piece of art, perfectly peeled off the frozen skin from his face.


    Even in subzero temperatures, Lucas''s hands didn''t tremble in the slightest.


    [This time, you''re going to take back the life that was stolen from you!]


    [The war against the evil dragon Durin has ended, and although the Young Wolf Rostam was severely injured, he survived. As for the mad doctor who once researched reviving corpses, he was buried forever under the eternal snow, with no one left to remember him.]


    [Yes, you have survived in Rostam''s ce. Using your unparalleled skills in cosmetic surgery, you reced your face with Rostam''s. Monthster, you removed your bandages to reveal a face identical to his.]


    [You imed that during the battle with Durin, you were poisoned and lost all your strength, unable to lift a sword ever again. Despite this, you were hailed as the great hero who saved Mondstadt, revered and admired by all.]


    [At the ceremony honoring you, as you basked in the adoring gazes of the crowd, you remembered the time when you were the outcast, hiding in Mondstadt''s slums. Once again, your life hadpletely changed.]


    [Suddenly, a young woman rushed onto the stage and threw herself into your arms. To your surprise, it was none other than the woman you had longed for, Rosalyne! Worried about Mondstadt after hearing of the disaster, she had returned in a hurry.]


    [You were shocked to realize that Rosalyne hadn''t noticed anything unusual about you. Of course, after years of separation and your severe injuries, it was only natural that ''Rostam''s'' body and appearance would have changed. Who knows Rostam better than you? Your wless performance had deceived Rosalyne, and fooling everyone else would be even easier.]


    [Seizing the moment, you publicly proposed to Rosalyne right then and there. Overwhelmed with happiness, Rosalyne, dizzy with joy, immediately epted your proposal.]


    [You were ted! Your revenge n had seeded! You had taken back the life that Rostam stole, won the woman you loved... even if it was in someone else''s name. But so what? You told yourself you *were* Rostam, and as for Lucas? He no longer existed in this world.]


    Is this... really how things turned out?


    Lucas found it difficult to calm down.


    Was this a good ending?


    He wasn''t sure. After all, he had obtained everything he wanted¡ªa life of respect, the woman he loved, supreme honor... but none of it had anything to do with the name "Lucas" anymore.


    [The wedding was soon held. Your marriage to Rosalyne became a grand celebration in Mondstadt. In the bridal chamber, you saw your new wife, her cheeks flushed from dandelion wine...]


    "Activate immersive mode."


    [Immersive mode activated.]


    Ahem... I''m doing this to avoid slipping up!


    Lucas shamelessly exined to himself.


    [No need to exin, I understand. Go for it! Full speed ahead!]


    The room, carefully decorated, was filled with the scent of incense, rose petals scattered across the bed...


    And the woman he had longed for every day and night.


    The most remarkable thing about the *Viin Simtor* is that once the immersive mode is activated, Lucas fully assumes the role, adopting the character''s personality, actions... and obsessions.


    Sitting gracefully on the bed, dressed in a white wedding gown, was Rosalyne.


    She looked remarkably simr to how she would be 500 yearster as "The Lady," but her demeanor and expression were entirely different.


    Of course, Rosalyne''s transformation into "The Lady" wasrgely due to her inability to cope with Rostam''s death. But now, "Rostam" was alive and had married her, so she had no reason to turn into that bitter figure.


    Lucas felt a slight sting on his cheek asionally, perhaps a lingering effect of the "face swap."


    "Rostam?" Noticing something off about her husband, Rosalyne softly called out, "Are you alright?"


    "I... I''m fine..." Lucas snapped back to reality and smiled at Rosalyne. "You look beautiful."


    "You..." Rosalyne blushed slightly. "You never used to say such things. Did you practice saying these words to other girls while I was away?"


    Lucas''s heart skipped a beat.


    Women really do have keen intuition.


    It was true that Rostam had always been reserved, the kind of man who found it hard to speak sweetly.


    Meanwhile, Lucas, after years of charming countless women, had be quite the smooth talker.


    "I... I meant every word," Lucas quickly corrected himself. "You''re the most beautiful woman I''ve ever seen."


    And he truly meant it.


    Strictly speaking, every simtion takes ce in a different parallel world.


    So, Keqing and Shenhe¡ªthey belonged to other worlds!


    "You... why are you just standing there?" Rosalyne blushed even more as she shifted on the bed, patting the spot beside her. "Come... sit with me."


    "Oh... oh!" Lucas snapped out of it and hurriedly sat down beside her.


    Strangely enough, despite his experience with countless women, Lucas suddenly felt awkward in front of the one he loved most.


    "Rosalyne... can I ask you a question?" Lucas suddenly thought of something and asked, "If that day, I hadn''te back alive, if I''d died in the battle against Durin... what would you have done?"


    "Why would you say such unlucky things?" Rosalyne''s expression darkened briefly, but she answered seriously, "But if... that had really happened, I wouldn''t have lived on by myself."


    Her answer brought Lucas a sense of relief.


    I wasn''t wrong!


    If I hadn''t taken Rostam''s identity, Rosalyne would''ve died too.


    "Rosalyne..." Lucas suddenly held her hand and softly said, "Could you sing for me one more time?"


    "Now, of all times?"


    Rosalyne was momentarily stunned. Singing on their wedding night seemed quite unusual.


    But to her, it also felt romantic. After all, she believed it was her singing that had brought her and Rostam together in the first ce.


    "Yes, right now," Lucas held her hand tightly, his voice choked with emotion. "All these years, I''ve longed... to hear you sing again."


    Lucas didn''t even know if he was speaking as Rostam or... as himself.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Please donate powerstones!!

 Chapter 16: Villain Simulator, Ch 16

    <h4>Chapter 16: Viin Simtor, Ch 16</h4>


    "It''s kind of embarrassing..." Rosalyne said softly, twirling a strand of hair around her finger. "Then, I''ll sing your favorite song... Oath in the Wind."


    That was Rostam''s favorite song. It told the story of a knight who, after enduring countless trials, finally fulfilled his promise and rescued the princess.


    "No, I want to hear a different song," Lucas shook his head. "Dancing in the Ashes."


    "That song?" Rosalyne seemed surprised.


    Dancing in the Ashes wasn''t a happy song. It told the tragic tale of a young girl whose ideals crumbled, leading her to burn herself and be a witch, eventually turning everything around her to ashes.


    And yet, it was Lucas''s favorite song.


    Perhaps it was because the girl in the song, like him, had experienced despair and pain, transforming into someone the world no longer understood.


    Though Rosalyne found it odd, she didn''t refuse his request. Soon, she began to sing Dance of the Ashes.


    The powerful and solemn melody transported Lucas back to that summer when he first met Rosalyne, and he felt his cold blood boil once more.


    "Sing! Keep singing, Rosalyne, sing forever!"


    "I... I will..."


    Even though there was a hint of pain in her voice, Rosalyne continued to sing the song.


    The request was indeed strange, but since it was Rostam''s, she had no intention of rejecting it.


    As long as her husband was happy, everything was worth it.


    The flower in bloom finally opened for its destined one. The once-painful song slowly transformed into one of joy.


    ...


    When the storm finally settled, the newlyweds enjoyed the calm after the tempest.


    "Sorry..." Lucas apologized, his face filled with guilt. "I think I made a very selfish request just now."


    "I don''t think it was selfish at all," Rosalyne shook her head gently and said with a warm smile. "As long as it makes you happy, I''m willing to do anything."


    Her words stirredplex emotions in Lucas''s heart.


    It felt strange¡ªRosalyne loved "him," but not really him.


    "By the way..." As if guided by a strange impulse, Lucas suddenly asked, "Do you remember a man named Lucas?"


    "Lucas?" Rosalyne''s face slightly changed at the name, but she nodded. "Yes, I know of him. He was once a renowned doctor in Mondstadt, and like me, he went to study at the Sumeru Academia. But sadly... he lost his way and ruined his own life."


    "Is that so?" A bitter smile crossed Lucas''s face. "You must hate that man, don''t you?"


    To his surprise, Rosalyne shook her head. "No... I don''t hate him. Though he went down a dark path, perhaps his intentions were good. Medicine is a cruel science; it often requires countless lives to make progress. Eh? Why are you crying?"


    Indeed, without even realizing it, tears had begun to fall from Lucas''s eyes.


    So, after all this time, had Rosalyne understood him? Had she seen the good in him?


    What a kind-hearted girl...


    What a pure-hearted girl.


    "It''s... nothing!" Lucas quickly wiped away his tears, smiling. "I''m just... too happy. I''m so happy to be married to you, I couldn''t help but cry... I''m so afraid I''ll lose you..."


    "Don''t worry..."


    Rosalyne embraced him warmly. "I will always be watching over you. Always."


    [Immersive mode ended, switching back to text mode.]


    "Phew..." Exiting immersive mode, Lucas let out a long sigh of relief.


    [You cried?]


    "I didn''t cry!" Lucas insisted, though he was surprised to find his cheeks wet with tears.


    [Age 32: Arundolyn, the Lion of Light, returns from his expedition with the Knights of Favonius. He is Rostam''s dear friend and, though he deeply regrets missing your wedding, he offers you his heartfelt congrattions.]


    [It seems everything is finally settling into ce. Though you lost your swordsmanship, your prestige in Mondstadt is unmatched. Arundolyn even suggests promoting you to Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, but you politely refuse and continue serving as vice captain, dedicating yourself to protecting Mondstadt.]


    [Age 33: Your duties are not easy. If Arundolyn is the "light" of the Knights of Favonius, then you are its "shadow." To maintain the peace, you often have to do things in secret. Of course, since you no longer possess your martial skills, you cannot carry out these tasks yourself. Instead, you train a private squad of knights. No one knows of their existence, not even Arundolyn, who only knows their name¡ªthe Undead.]


    [Yes, they are knights made from corpses, revived by you andpletely under your control. While this may seem evil, you believe it is a necessary evil for the sake of protecting Mondstadt. At the same time, you''ve never given up on your research into medicine.]


    [After winning Rosalyne, you felt as though you''d lost your purpose. But as vice captain of the Knights, you now have greater authority to pursue your ambitions. The creation of the Undead is a crucial part of your dream.]


    [Age 34: Your skills in reviving corpses have grown more refined, but there is still a significant w. These Undead can use all thebat techniques they had in life, but they cannot improve further. Without minds, they can''t learn or grow from battle experience. This means that unless you find exceptionally strong corpses, your army of Undead will never be the ultimate force.]


    [Your endless research takes a toll on your body and mind. Fortunately, your wife, Rosalyne, remains as gentle and understanding as ever. Her perfect voice and presence help you find moments of peace. You''ve retained your habit of listening to her sing while engaging in intimacy, though she never utters a word ofint. To the people of Mondstadt, you are a hero without equal, but to Rosalyne, you''re simply a weary husband. She fulfills your every need, no matter how "strange" your requests may be.]


    Of course, Lucas was deeply familiar with Rosalyne''s "gentleness."


    Unlike his interactions with Shenhe, who had been forced into submission, Rosalyne''s love for him¡ªor rather, for "Rostam"¡ªwas pure and wholehearted. Every "service" she performed was out of genuine affection.


    The biggest difference was that, after every encounter with Shenhe, she would wash herself obsessively and leave in silence, treating Lucas like nothing more than a customer.


    But Rosalyne was different. After everything was over, she would embrace Lucas without reservation, surrounding him in warmth and love throughout the night.


    If Lucas didn''t know the future events, he would never have believed that this tender, loving woman would one day transform into the ruthless Fatui Harbinger, "The Lady."


    [Age 35: A knight named Rnd visits you. He introduces himself as Rostam''s apprentice, having spent years guarding Mondstadt''s borders. This year marks his return to the city. After learning of all you''ve been through, he expresses deep sorrow over your lost strength.]


    [Nevertheless, Rnd insists on sparring with you, convinced that even though "Rostam" has lost his power, his knowledge of swordsmanship remains. Naturally, you know nothing of swordy, so you send him away with an excuse.]


    [But Rnd''s words inspire you. To create the strongest Undead warriors, you need the most perfect materials. Thus, under the guise of a mission, you lead your men to Dragonspine, where you secretly exhume Rostam''s corpse. Thanks to the cold and snow, his body has remained perfectly preserved¡ªexcept for his face, which now belongs to you.]


    [You take Rostam''s body back to yourboratory. Staring at your former friend, you feel nothing. Using your expert skills, you transform his corpse into the perfect Undead warrior. His swordsmanship is as deadly as ever, but now, he obeys only yourmands.]


    [You craft a special set of armor for him, sealing his mutted face behind an iron mask. He is your greatest creation, and you order him to protect you from the shadows.]


    [Late at night, you station your most loyal knight outside your bedroom with Rosalyne. The thought that "Rostam" might be able to hear you fills you with overwhelming excitement.]


    "Activate... immersive mode."


    [What''s this? You can''t resist, can you?]


    "I want to see just how ''exciting'' it can be."


    [Immersive mode activated!]


    By the softmplight, Rosalyne''s beautiful smile seemed untouched by time.


    "Rostam..." Rosalyne gently wiped the sweat from Lucas''s brow, her voice tender. "You seem different tonight."


    Indeed, there was no song, no special request¡ªjust simple... desire.


    "Yes. Call my name."


    "R-Rostam!" Rosalyne raised her voice slightly.


    She found it strange. Her husband had never liked her calling his name before, but tonight he made the request¡ªthough it was a rather normal one.


    Outside, a shadow seemed to shiver slightly.


    "What was that?" Rosalyne asked fearfully. "It looked like someone was outside the window."


    For some reason, the figure seemed familiar to her.


    "You''re imagining things," Lucas smiled. "It''s probably just the shadow of a tree. After all, who would dare sneak into the vice captain of the Knights of Favonius'' estate?"


    In reality, there had been intruders before. As Mondstadt''s "shadow," Lucas had made plenty of enemies to protect the city''s stability.


    Many had sought his head, but those who infiltrated his mansion were now part of the Undead army... or new "materials."


    "My dear..."


    Rosalyne''s sweat glistened under the dim light, sparkling softly. "I want a gift."


    "What... what gift?"


    The end of Lucas''s "battle" was fast approaching.


    "A child," Rosalyne closed her eyes. "Our child."


    "I''ll give you one. I''ll give you everything..."


    As the night deepened, the lights dimmed, and silence fell.


    Only the armored knight, standing vigil outside their room, remained motionless. Beneath his iron mask, his eyes glowed faintly.


    [Age 35: After your tireless efforts, Rosalyne bes pregnant. The anticipation of a new life temporarily lifts the burden of your work. You decide that once the child is born, you will abandon your research on resurrecting corpses. How could you hold your newborn with hands tainted by death?]


    [But tragedy strikes. Rosalyne has a miscarriage. Despite your being one of the best doctors in Mondstadt, or even all of Teyvat, you are unable to determine the cause. Youfort Rosalyne, telling her it was just an ident. There will be other children... someday.]


    [Though Rosalyne was deeply saddened, under your gentlefort and care, her spirits slowly recovered.]


    [Meanwhile, after the fall of Khaenri''ah, monsters began to appear all over Teyvat, especially hilichurls, whose numbers grew exponentially. Outside Mondstadt, monsters roamed frequently, and to save Mondstadt from this crisis, you had to dedicate even more effort to the creation and development of your undead warriors.]


    [Yes, although you are not the real Rostam, after years of acting and pretending, you''ve started to believe that you are Rostam. Even Rostam''s desire to protect Mondstadt has be your own. Although your methods are far from clean and must never be discovered, your goal is indeed to save Mondstadt. As long as you achieve your goal, does it matter if you aren''t understood?]


    [At least Rosalyne, she surely understands you. As long as she does, that''s enough.]


    [Age 36: Your research has finally made progress. You discover that Rostam''s strength is continuously improving, suggesting that your undead warriors can indeed evolve further.]


    [You begin to experience more frequent stinging pain in your face. Although this sensation has been present for a long time, the frequency has increased significantly. However, you pay little attention to it, as performing cosmetic surgery is now a trivial task for someone like you.]


    [Age 37: Rosalyne is pregnant again. Determined to avoid the previous tragedy, you temporarily resign from your duties as vice captain to care for her with the utmost attention. You''ve created countless "lives" in your work, but the little being growing inside Rosalyne''s womb is your greatest creation.]


    [As one of the greatest doctors in history, you eliminated almost every possible danger to Rosalyne. But despite your efforts, fate yed another cruel joke on you¡ªRosalyne suffered another miscarriage. Without warning or reason, the baby was stillborn. Looking at the deformed, pitiful lump of flesh, it resembled the twisted corpses you had worked with in yourb.]


    [Suddenly, a thought clicked. You returned to the cold cer you hadn''t visited in nearly a decade. Inside, your old enemy, the "Mad Doctor," was still trapped in the jar of nutrient liquid, suffering an eternal torment, unable to live or die.]


    [His body had withered to the point of resembling a mummified corpse. You administered a prepared solution to restore his consciousness, but the long years of torment had reduced him to a shell of a human being, devoid of emotion.]


    [You asked him why your wife kept miscarrying. He said he would only tell you if you ended his suffering. You shattered the jar holding him, and the room was immediately filled with a putrid stench. Without the liquid to sustain him, the Mad Doctor would die soon enough.]


    [True to his word, the Mad Doctor revealed that reviving corpses is an act of sphemy, and thus, you were cursed by the gods. You would never be able to have children. You refused to believe this, but with hisst ounce of strength, the Mad Doctorughed mockingly before dissolving into a pool of foul-smelling pus.]


    [Age 38: The two miscarriages took a toll on Rosalyne, leaving her deeply depressed. You noticed the first wrinkle appear near her eyes¡ªshe, too, had begun to age.]


    [The pain in your face became more severe. You tried many methods to suppress it, but none were effective. One day, you noticed that ck blood had started to seep from the wounds on your face.]


    [When you analyzed the blood, you were shocked to find that it was Durin''s venomous blood. You realized that when Rostam fought Durin, he had been contaminated by the dragon''s poison. Since you had grafted Rostam''s skin onto your own face, you were now infected as well. Even though you had sterilized it thoroughly at the time, the trace amounts of Durin''s blood had spread over time, slowly eating away at your body.]


    [For some reason, though, the poison couldn''t kill you (the Die of Old Age skill activated), but the excruciating pain tortured you daily.]


    It seems the Die of Old Age trait was working at an unexpected time!


    That makes sense. Durin''s blood is technically a toxin, and it can''t kill me.


    [Age 39: Monsters outside Mondstadt became more rampant, while the number of avable Knights of Favonius dwindled. One day, monstersunched another attack on the city gates. To defend Mondstadt''sst line of defense, you had no choice but to deploy your undead army into battle for the first time.]


    [Thanks to your research, the undead army''s power had grown significantly. After an intense battle, the monsters were ughtered, and your masterpiece, Rostam, imed countless enemy lives, staining his armor with their blood. As themander of the undead army, you were once again hailed as a hero of Mondstadt.]


    [However, the fierce battle seemed to agitate Rostam''s corpse. He suddenly swung his sword and began attacking the Knights of Favonius. Rnd, Rostam''s former student, quickly raised his sword to block Rostam''s attacks. Finally, after your intervention, Rostam was calmed.]


    [But Rnd identally broke Rostam''s mask during the fight. He pointed to the disfigured, armored corpse beneath and shouted in disbelief, "This man... is the real Rostam!"]


    [Rnd''s revtion shocked everyone. You and your undead army were immediately ced under investigation. The truth could no longer be hidden. Soon, it was revealed that you had used the bodies of warriors and adventurers to create your undead soldiers. More importantly, after a series of interrogations, Arundolyn finally uncovered your true identity.]


    [You were forced to face Mondstadt''s highest trial. In the courtroom, you passionately defended yourself, telling everyone that while you had deceived them, everything you had done over the years was to protect Mondstadt and its people. Without your undead army, Mondstadt would have been overrun by monsters long ago. No one had the right to judge you!]


    [Your words momentarily silenced the people of Mondstadt. Indeed, what you did was sphemy against the gods, but your actions had undeniably protected the city. Without your undead army, Mondstadt might not have survived the recent siege.]


    [However, just as the crowd was hesitating, Rnd stood up once again, filled with righteous anger. He condemned you, iming that you had betrayed Rostam, causing his death in Dragonspine, and had stolen his identity. Not only that, but you had turned this hero''s corpse into a filthy killing machine. If Rostam had lived, he could have achieved everything you had done without resorting to such vile means.]


    [Rnd''s words reignited the crowd''s fury. They needed a reason to execute you, and he had given them one.]


    [A rotten egg was hurled from the crowd, hitting you square in the face. The foul stench filled your nose as you faintly heard someone shout, "Mondstadt is safe now. You can die!"]


    [Ironically, the people who now cursed, insulted, and condemned you were the very same ones who once revered, respected, and worshipped you.]


    [More stones and rotting vegetables were thrown at you from the crowd below the tribunal. In the past, such behavior would have been immediately stopped by the judges, but today, no one intervened. It seemed that all the violence directed at you was now considered an act of righteousness.]


    [ck blood clouded your vision. You suddenly found yourselfughing bitterly. How pathetic. If only you had retired from the Knights of Favonius and ceased your research into undead soldiers. If only you had lived a peaceful life with Rosalyne, none of this would have happened.]


    [And now, the people you had fought so hard to protect saw you as a mortal enemy, a hideous monster, and a sinner beyond redemption. You had lost all value. The skilled craftsman who shoots down thest bird is discarded. The loyal dog who catches the cunning hare is boiled alive. The people of Mondstadt, having just survived a catastrophe, needed a new celebration¡ªa spectacle where your head would roll.]


    -----

 Chapter 17: Villain Simulator, Ch 17

    <h4>Chapter 17: Viin Simtor, Ch 17</h4>


    [Your "dear friend," the Lion of Light, Arundolyn, directly announced your judgment: you would be publicly beheaded by Rostam''s former disciple, Rnd. As Rnd raised his blood-stained ck sword, and as the crowd''s curses and insults filled the air, your choice is...]


    [1. ept death]


    [2. Resist death]


    Even the normally mild-mannered Lucas couldn''t help but feel a surge of anger.


    Was he truly evil?


    After all, all he had done was experiment on corpses that were already dead. Aside from the mad doctor who destroyed his hometown, Lucas had never killed anyone.


    And those "evil" medical experiments hadn''t brought him any personal gain; they had only cursed him with a future devoid of descendants.


    Now, the very people he had protected were more eager to take his life than the monsters he had fought.


    "I choose... the second option," a hint of bloodlust flickered in Lucas''s eyes. "Also, I want to enter immersive mode."


    Some things were better handled personally.


    [Very well]


    Lucas''s reaction seemed to please the simtor.


    [Entering immersive mode]


    As he opened his eyes, Lucas was hit by an overwhelming stench. His vision was blurred by filth, and his ears were filled with a cacophony of insults.


    "Master Rostam..." Rnd, holding the ck sword, looked at you with hatred and shouted, "I will avenge you!"


    But just as the sharp de was about to sever Lucas''s head, he coldlymanded, "Execute order: Extermination mode. Target... all visible beings."


    As soon as the words left his mouth, the chained corpse of Rostam below the tform suddenly lifted its head. Its eyes, forever open due to the loss of eyelids, began to glow with a crimson light.


    With a sudden burst of strength, Rostam''s muscles swelled, and with a sharp snap, he broke free from the chains. The nearby Knights of Favonius, who were guarding him, had no time to react before Rostam snatched their swords from their waists.


    They didn''t stand a chance. In an instant, Rostam beheaded them. After all, the very "Favonius Swordsmanship" they prided themselves on had been created by the horrifying corpse warrior standing before them.


    Now, this former hero of Mondstadt, Wolf Pup Rostam, had be Lucas''s most loyal knight.


    With a powerful leap, Rostam jumped onto the execution tform, intercepting Rnd''s sword with his own.


    Even though Rostam''s face was now unrecognizable, the familiar swordsmanship left Rnd stunned.


    "Master..." Rnd''s voice trembled as he looked at the familiar yet foreign figure before him. "I''m Rnd, your most loyal disciple..."


    But Rostam no longer recognized anyone. His only purpose was to protect his master behind him and carry out the orders given to him.


    Without a word, Rostam swung his sword, aiming to sever Rnd''s head. Just as it was about tond, a massive figure stepped in front of him, blocking the blow with a greatsword.


    The man wore armor adorned with a silver lion, his hand holding both a greatsword and a longsword¡ªthe current captain of the Knights of Favonius, Arundolyn.


    "He''s no longer the Rostam you once knew."


    Arundolyn pushed Rostam back with a forceful swing, causing the undead knight to retreat a few steps, positioning himself between Lucas and his enemies. Then, with a swift sh, he severed the chains binding Lucas.


    "Do you still n to resist?" Arundolyn''s piercing gaze fell upon Lucas, as sharp as a sword. "If you surrender now, I can promise you... a dignified death."


    "I return your words to you, unchanged." Lucas pressed his fingers into his face, slowly tearing open a gash, ripping off the decaying skin he had worn for years. "Let me leave with Rosalyne, or I will turn Mondstadt into a true hell."


    "Stop dreaming!" Arundolyn snarled, teeth clenched. "Do you think Rosalyne would follow a monster like you? Today, I, Arundolyn the Lion of Light, will avenge my fallen friend."


    "It seems... negotiations have failed."


    As Lucas''s words fell, he ripped off the "mask" he had worn for years.


    The pain was excruciating, but in a twisted way, it was also liberating.


    Starting today, I no longer need to live under someone else''s name...


    Seeing this eerie and grotesque sight, even Arundolyn, who had seen much in his life, couldn''t help but mutter in shock, "What... are you?"


    "My name is Lucas," he smiled, his expression stretching unnaturally. "The greatest doctor in the world, the first person on Teyvat to conquer death."


    "You''re nothing but a madman!" Arundolyn roared, charging forward with both swords swinging. Though he didn''t wield a Vision, his natural talent and effort had ced him at the pinnacle of strength.


    Yet, once again, Rostam blocked his strike.


    If there was anyone in Mondstadt who could match Arundolyn, it would be the "Wolf Pup" Rostam.


    "Yes, I''m a madman. But before that, all I wanted was to be a doctor, saving lives. All I wanted was to protect more people, to defeat death..." Lucas''s shoulders shook as heughed like a wild beast. "But there was no ce for me in this world. So today, I will embrace my madness... Arise, my servants!"


    "It''s useless!" Arundolyn growled coldly. "All those abominations you created have been destroyed."


    "Oh?" Lucas chuckled. "Are you sure about that?"


    As soon as the words left his mouth, a loud crack echoed across the square. A hand emerged from the ground, followed by more cracks as undead warriors began crawling out of the earth.


    "Wha... what is this?" Arundolyn''s face filled with disbelief.


    "This is a defensive mechanism I established in secret, to be used as Mondstadt''sst line of defense in case monsters breached the gates. I call it ''Premature Burial,''" Lucas said calmly. "Captain, you don''t want to see Mondstadt turn into a hellscape, do you?"


    Sure enough, the undead army began obeying Lucas''smand,unching an indiscriminate massacre on the people of Mondstadt.


    The ordinary citizens stood no chance against the powerful undead. They screamed, begged for mercy, ran in terror, and died.


    "How could you do this..." Arundolyn''s body trembled with rage. "These people are innocent!"


    "No one is innocent," Lucas sneered. "They brought this upon themselves."


    "You irredeemable viin!"


    Unable to contain his fury any longer, Rnd raised his ck sword and charged at Lucas again. "As long as I kill you, this will all end!"


    But Lucas made no move to dodge. He merely watched the young knight with cold indifference as he rushed forward.


    If it weren''t for Rnd, perhaps his "crimes" wouldn''t have been exposed so soon.


    Yet, Lucas bore no hatred toward him.


    "Rnd! Look out!" Arundolyn''s warning came toote. Just before Rnd reached Lucas, a sharp de pierced his back, thrusting through his chest.


    Turning slowly, Rnd''s eyes widened in shock.


    The one who had run him through... was none other than his revered master, Rostam.


    "M-Master..." Dark blood spilled from the young knight''s mouth, and his body copsed like a broken puppet.


    But momentster, Rnd''s "corpse" began to rise, contorting unnaturally as it stood up.


    His now pale, expressionless face showed no emotion. He knelt before Lucas like the most loyal of knights.


    Not only that, but the Mondstadt citizens in by the undead began to rise as well, joining the ever-growing undead army.


    "Wh... what is this?" For the first time, Arundolyn, the fearless Lion of Light, showed a glimmer of despair. "What have you done?"


    "I merely removed a few restrictions," Lucas said as he patted Rnd''s shoulder. "Once you realize your own strength... you are invincible."


    Indeed, Lucas had underestimated his own power for too long.


    While he knew nothing of swordsmanship andcked a Vision, his mastery over resurrection and modifying corpses gave him the power tomand an army that could never be defeated.


    The ughter continued.


    The already depleted Knights of Favonius stood no chance against the formidable undead army. Even the mighty Arundolyn, facing thebined forces of Rostam and Rnd, began to falter.


    Everything Lucas had once cherished and protected was now being destroyed by hismand.


    Yet, as he watched the hellish scene before him, he felt an unprecedented sense of peace, as though this was what he was meant to do.


    "What... what are you doing?"


    A familiar voice behind him made Lucas turn. There stood his wife, Rosalyne, gazing at him with aplex mixture of emotions.


    Even after all that had happened, Rosalyne remained the most important person in Lucas''s life.


    "Rosalyne... my Rosalyne..."


    Now, only in front of Rosalyne did Lucas''s face show a final trace of warmth. Hesitantly, he said, "Let me exin, actually, I..."


    At this moment, Lucas wouldn''t blink even if he had to destroy the entire city of Mondstadt.


    Yet, in front of Rosalyne, the "lord" of the undead army appeared like a child who had done something wrong.


    His gaze instinctively shifted to the shattered ss window not far away. Reflected in it was a face that was beyond recognition.


    It was neither the resolute face of Rostam nor the handsome visage of Lucas.


    It was a hideous, indescribable chaos, something no one dared to look at directly.


    Would Rosalyne still ept him like this?


    If she knew the truth, she would surely hate him with all her heart, right?


    After all, in everyone''s eyes, he was the "viin" who had betrayed Rostam and stolen his identity.


    This viin not only caused Rostam''s death but also took his ce, bing Rosalyne''s husband and marrying her.


    To Lucas''s surprise, a bitter smile suddenly appeared on Rosalyne''s face. She softly said, "You don''t need to exin¡ªI know that you are not Rostam, you are Lucas... I''ve known this for a long time."


    "W-What?" Lucas was momentarily stunned by her words. He stammered, "H-How did you know?"


    Hadn''t his disguise fooled everyone?


    Arundolyn, Rnd, the Knights of Favonius, the citizens of Mondstadt¡ªnone of them had noticed any ws. How could Rosalyne have known?


    "Rostam once gave me an hourss to measure the time until I returned from Sumeru," Rosalyne sighed softly. "That hourss had a special magic, reflecting Rostam''s condition... One day, it suddenly shattered, and I knew that something terrible had happened to him."


    Lucas realized she wasn''t lying. This type of magic¡ªable to reflect the condition of its owner¡ªwas one of the innovations he had created back when he was a doctor.


    It was simr to the "Vivre Cards" from One Piece: if the enchanted object was damaged, it meant its owner had suffered harm.


    Lucas had never imagined that, after all his meticulous nning, it would be one of his own creations that exposed him.


    He thought Rosalyne would now unleash her hatred on him. But instead, she said calmly, "So, I rushed back to Mondstadt. To my surprise, you appeared unharmed on the podium during the award ceremony. When you proposed to me, I was even more certain you weren''t Rostam because Rostam... never looked at me with such deep affection."


    "I''m sorry... I..."


    Throughout everything he had done, Lucas had never once apologized. He had always believed that his actions were justified¡ªthat the world simply couldn''t understand him.


    He never felt the need to apologize, nor did he think he owed one.


    But in front of Rosalyne, for the first time, Lucas felt a sense of guilt.


    "You don''t need to apologize. Everything that''s happened... was my own choice. I knew the real Rostam was gone, but I didn''t want to ept it. So, I chose to ept you instead."


    Tears began to well in Rosalyne''s eyes as she continued, "I lied to myself, telling myself that you were Rostam. I knew it was all fake, but the lie was so beautiful. You yed the lyre for me while I sang, you held me every night... And then one day, I realized something. It didn''t matter if you were Rostam or not... because I had already fallen in love with you."


    When you fall in love with someone, does it really matter who they are?


    With those words, Rosalyne walked up to Lucas, wrapping her arms around him in a gentle embrace.


    "Thank you, Rosalyne..." Lucas''s voice was choked with emotion. "Don''t worry, no one can separate us now. I''ll create a new world¡ªone where it''s just you and me."


    This wasn''t a fantasy. With his undead army, Lucas could tten Mondstadt in three days, and conquering all of Teyvat wasn''t out of the question.


    "Let''s stop here," Rosalyne whispered softly in his ear. "You''ve already made too many mistakes... But don''t worry, I''ll stay with you... forever."


    What?


    Lucas hadn''t yet processed the meaning behind her words when he suddenly felt an overwhelming heat spreading through his body.


    Rosalyne... was burning!


    No, rather than burning, it was as if Rosalyne had be the me itself.


    And as she held him in her embrace, Lucas too was consumed by the fire.


    So... this is how it ends?


    -------


    Author''s Note: Wow I didnt expect this to turn so dark xD...


    GIVE POWAHSTONES CUZ THE PLOT HAS JUST STARTED THICKENING!!!

 Chapter 18: Villain Simulator, Ch 18

    <h4>Chapter 18: Viin Simtor, Ch 18</h4>


    Lucas immediately understood. Rosalyne did love him, but to prevent him from carrying out a potentially world-ending madness, she had no choice but to kill him with great pain.


    The raging mes would soon burn both Lucas and Rosalyne to ash, merging them together, never to be separated again.


    Strangely, Lucas didn''t feel any pain from the mes. At that moment, he even thought¡ªmaybe this wasn''t a bad ending after all. At least, he could be with the woman he loved forever.


    However, at that moment, Rostam, who had been fighting alongside Rnd against Arundolyn, suddenly stopped upon seeing Lucas engulfed in mes. Without hesitation, he turned and charged toward Lucas.


    This wasn''t amand from Lucas; it was Rostam''s own decision.


    From his dried and cracked lips, a hoarse shout emerged: "Brother..."


    A sharp de cut through the air in a long arc, shing Rosalyne''s back. However, instead of red blood, a molten,va-like liquid fire erupted from the wound.


    Rosalyne screamed in agony and copsed, falling out of Lucas''s arms.


    "Rosalyne!"


    Seeing Rosalyne gravely wounded and lying on the ground, Lucas snapped back to reality, but the mes she ignited still raged on his body. He felt his consciousness gradually blur from the intense pain until everything turned to darkness...


    [Exiting Immersive Mode...]


    [Switching to Text Mode...]


    "What... just happened?"


    After regaining consciousness, Lucas returned to reality, but the sensations just now felt so real that he found it difficult to breathe. "Am I... already dead?"


    Given his previous experiences, this situation usually ended in death.


    Unfortunately, the Die of Old Aging trait didn''t seem to activate at all.


    But then, the system responded:


    [You are not dead. During your prior medical research, to resist the lingering poison of Durin''s blood in Rostam''s organs, you injected yourself withrge amounts of gic activation agents to enhance your self-healing abilities. These agents and Durin''s blood merged and counteracted each other, producing a unique regenerative factor.]


    [Achievement Unlocked: Regenerative Factor]


    [New Skill Gained: Regenerative Factor]


    [Effect: Your body has developed a unique factor that greatly enhances your healing ability, although you will still feel the associated pain while your body recovers.]


    A new trait with such an impressive ability?


    Could this mean I''ll be able to regenerate like Wolverine, maybe even regrow half my brain if it gets blown off?


    Though, based on how the system works, Lucas doubted it would give him such an overpowered ability.


    [Thanks to Rostam''s intervention, you weren''t burned to death by Rosalyne''s mes. However, you did fall into aa due to severe burns.]


    Wait... was it Rostam who saved me?


    Seeing this line of text, Lucas couldn''t help but feel conflicted.


    Logically, without hismand, Rostam shouldn''t have acted on his own. Could it be that he sensed the danger Lucas was in and acted on instinct?


    It''s ironic, really. In order to save his "enemy," Rostam had to strike down his former "lover."


    ---


    [Some time passed, and you woke up in intense pain. You found yourself in the cer of the Church of Favonius, which also served as a refuge stocked with plenty of supplies in case of disaster.]


    [However, there was no one around¡ªnot even Rostam. As you began to recover from your injuries, the ground suddenly shook violently. Then, a loud crash echoed as if something had copsed. Dust fell steadily from the ceiling, and though you wanted to investigate, your body was too weak to move.]


    [Fortunately, your body recovered quickly (Trait Regenerative Factor activated).]


    "Wait..." Lucas raised a question. "Can new traits work in the life simtor?"


    [Although only the three initial traits can be used at the start of each simtion, traits gained within the simtion can be utilized in that session.]


    Makes sense...


    It''s only fair that traits earned during the simtion should apply since they''re a direct result of actions taken during that life.


    ---


    [Finally, you were able to move again. You went to the cer door, trying to open it, but it wouldn''t budge as if something heavy was blocking it.]


    [You guessed that the earlier tremor caused the Church of Favonius to copse, trapping you inside the cer. Despite being able to create powerful undead warriors, your physical strength was quite ordinary, making it impossible to force the door open.]


    [You tried summoning your undead soldiers but received no response. There were no corpses or tools around to craft new ones either. Thankfully, there was plenty of food and water in storage, enough to sustain you for a long time since this refuge was designed to amodate thousands of people. Supporting just one person was no problem.]


    [You searched every corner for an exit but found nothing. A harsh reality began to dawn on you: unless someone else rescued you, you were likely trapped in this dark cer forever. But considering your crimes, even if you were rescued, it would probably only be to face the harshest punishment. Your choices are...]


    [1. Hold out as long as possible]


    [2. End it all]


    If this were happening in the real world, someone might genuinely consider the second option.


    After all, not everyone can be a Robinson Crusoe. At least he had an ind and apanion, Friday. Meanwhile, Lucas had nothing but the darkness of the cer.


    But this isn''t real life; it''s a simtion. Lucas wouldn''t have to endure that torturous istion firsthand.


    "I choose to hold out. Let''s see how long I can survive."


    Following previous patterns, the longer he survived, the better the rewards would likely be.


    Besides, Lucas was curious about how long "he" couldst, what had happened to the outside world, why he was trapped here, and, most importantly¡ªwhat had be of Rosalyne.


    ---


    [In the end, you chose to live on. You still wanted to see Rosalyne again. You didn''t hate her for trying to take you down with her. Now, you had all the time in the world to think of a way to resolve your conflict.]


    ---


    [Age 40: A year passed, and you continued to live in the cer. Not a single person came to open it, and you hadn''t heard a single sound from the outside. This was strange¡ªafter all, the Church of Favonius was one of the most important buildings in Mondstadt. If they were rebuilding the city, they should have started here.]


    [Perhaps the people of Mondstadt were truly wiped out by your undead army, or maybe they had abandoned the city and migrated elsewhere. You didn''t care about any of this. Your thoughts were only of Rosalyne. You weren''t afraid she was killed by the undead because you hadmanded your army to protect her and yourself at all costs.]


    [As for why Rostam attacked Rosalyne, it was likely because protecting you took priority over protecting her.]


    ---


    [Age 41: You grew ustomed to the solitude. Fortunately, you didn''t have to worry about food and water. The supplies here were magically enhanced tost for an incredibly long time.]


    ---


    [Age 42: Perhaps due to removing Rostam''s skin, Durin''s blood gradually stopped affecting you. Strangely, your body also didn''t seem to be aging as expected.]


    Reading these lines, Lucas couldn''t help but think, How much longer am I going to be trapped here?


    [Age 42: Due to extreme boredom, you began exercising. Previously, you disdained physical training, believing human physical limits couldn''t be surpassed. However, now you fantasize that if you can be strong enough, you might be able to punch through the obstacles blocking the cer door.]


    [Age 43: Without realizing it, you built up a muscr physique. With your medical skills, you could remove the burn scars left by Rosalyne on your body, but you choose not to. Every time you see those scars, you''re reminded of her.]


    [Strangely, even though the burn marks have long since scarred over, you often still feel burning pain. Based on your medical knowledge, you assume it''s phantom pain and don''t pay much attention to it.]


    [Age 44: The candles in the cer take 24 hours to burn downpletely, and you use them to track the passage of days. This is your fifth year in the cer, and you''ve given up hope that anyone wille to rescue you.]


    [Age 45: You discover an old sword in a corner of the cer, surprisingly untouched by rust. Although you''ve never practiced swordsmanship, you''ve observed countless of Rostam''s battles and meticulously recorded his fighting techniques to test hisbat potential.]


    [You can remember every muscle and bone in the human body, so naturally, you also remember every one of Rostam''s moves. Thanks to the physical training you''ve done, your body is now much stronger than before, and you begin practicing sword techniques by mimicking Rostam''s style.]


    Rostam was the creator of the Favonius Swordsmanship, but unlike the "sword techniques" of Liyue, Favonius Swordsmanship is more of a battle tactic with no fixed forms. One: sh, two: cleave, three: pierce, then repeat from the beginning. That simplicity is the essence of the Favonius Swordsmanship technique.


    [Everyone who practices Favonius Swordsmanship develops their own style. While the techniques you recall from Rostam are extraordinary, without any real swordsmanship training, you can only grasp its "form," not its "spirit."]


    [Age 46: You''ve made some progress in swordsmanship.]


    [Age 47: Using Rostam''s techniques, you craft your own version of Favonius Swordsmanship and decide to name it Favonius Swordsmanship: Wolf''s Fang in memory of your former friend, foe, and most loyal servant.]


    [Skill Unlocked: Favonius Swordsmanship: Wolf''s Fang]


    [Favonius Swordsmanship: Wolf''s Fang


    Rank: B


    Effect: Increases critical hit rate by 20% when used.


    Description: A sword technique developed based on the undead Rostam''s fighting style. It still falls short of his original skill and is only of moderate quality, but it''s more than enough to deal with ordinary swordsmen.]


    You can unlock skills too?


    Though it''s only a B-rank skill, Lucas is still surprised.


    Considering the protagonist in this simtion spent most of his life without any exposure to martial arts, being able to create a new sword technique purely based on memory is remarkable.


    If his talent were any higher, he might be able to create something like Nine Yin Manual from The Legend of the Condor Heroes.


    [Age 48: You gradually be obsessed with swordsmanship.]


    [Age 49: You unexpectedly find a rat in the cer, which brings you great joy. First, it proves there''s life nearby, and second, it provides somefort in the ten years of solitude.]


    [Age 50: Your body hasn''t deteriorated with age; instead, it''s bing even stronger (Old But Vigorous trait activated).]


    Finally, that trait kicks in!


    Lucas feels touched.


    After all, this is his first time surviving past 50 in the Viin Simtor.


    It wasn''t easy!


    [Age 51: Your body grows even stronger, and your once white hair begins to turn ck again (Old But Vigorous trait activated).]


    [Age 53: You can easily do 1,000 push-ups (Old But Vigorous trait activated).]


    [Age 54: You...]


    "Hold on!" Lucas interrupts suddenly. "How long am I going to be stuck here?"


    Given the protagonist''s current condition, he could probably live longer than Lucas in real life.


    And with nothing significant happening in the story, things are getting a bit dull.


    [The progression of events within the simtor cannot be predicted, and this system does not provide spoilers.]


    "So, I just have to watch this unfold?" Lucas feels exasperated. "Isn''t there a fast-forward feature?"


    [The system requires time topute the simtion, so fast-forwarding is not possible. However, the host can enter ''AFK mode.'']


    "AFK mode?" Lucas asks, confused. "Doesn''t real-time stop while the simtion runs?"


    [In AFK mode, the real-time pause is lifted, and the simtor runs automatically. The host will be notified when important events or decisions arise.]


    "Why didn''t you mention this useful feature earlier?" Lucas asks, exasperated.


    [I figured you didn''t ask.]


    "Alright, alright..." Lucas relents. "Activate AFK mode."


    [AFK mode activated.]


    As expected, once AFK mode is activated, the real-time freeze is lifted.


    Additionally, a semi-transparent window appears in Lucas''s field of vision, allowing him to monitor the simtion''s progress. He can close it if he doesn''t want to watch.


    As the system stated, though, the simtor doesn''t speed up much in AFK mode.


    "Fine, I''ll check on it tomorrow morning..."


    Perhaps because the recent events in the story were too intense, Lucas feels a bit stifled in his chest and decides to get up for some fresh air.


    ---


    At the same time...


    In Keqing''s room...


    "Lucas! I''ll kill you!"


    With an enraged shout, Keqing bolts upright in her bed, drenched in sweat, her expression tense and agitated.


    More importantly, her eyes are filled with a deadly killing intent¡ªsomething seen only in those who have experienced countless ughters.


    "Where... am I?" However, as she looks around the familiar room, "Keqing''s" face shows confusion. She murmurs, "My room?"


    How could this be?


    Hadn''t she and her family moved away after being framed at the Tianquan Academy? Even their property in Liyue had been sold off.


    That''s right, this isn''t the real Keqing; this is the dark Keqing from the Viin Simtor who had joined the Abyss Order and be "Thunder Cmity Rakshasa."


    Whether this "Thunder Cmity" version of Keqing was born from her nightmares or was a manifestation from an alternate timeline where the events of the Viin Simtor truly happened remains unclear... for now.


    -----


    Author''s Note: CMonnn guys leave powerstones and reviews!!!


    And I wont make you wait long for the dark keqing next Chapter ??

 Chapter 19: Villain Simulator, Ch 19

    <h4>Chapter 19: Viin Simtor, Ch 19</h4>


    The only thing that could be certain was that at this very moment, Keqing''s heart was filled with an overwhelming hatred for Lucas.


    Unlike the Keqing of this dimension, she was not the renowned "Yuheng Star" of the Liyue Qixing, nor was she a protector of Liyue. Instead, after the tragic loss of her family and home, she harbored resentment and dissatisfaction, descending into the Abyss Order to be a vengeful "Thunder Cmity Rakshasa."


    Even the same person can take apletely opposite path in life after experiencing different fates.


    "Is this... a dream?" Keqing nced at the mirror beside the bed. The reflection showed her usual appearance, without any eerie stripes from falling into the Abyss. Herplexion was as fair as ever, and even her eyes remained clear.


    She stood up and looked around. The walls were covered with photographs, depicting her growth and family moments.


    The Camera from Sumeru was, of course, not an unusual object for a prestigious family like Keqing''s.


    There was an image of herself practicing swordsmanship with her grandfather.


    Another of her fishing with her father in Qingce Vige.


    And one of her cooking with her mother in the kitchen, identally burning the fish.


    And finally, an image of herself being appointed as the "Yuheng Star"...


    One scene after another shed before her like a revolvingntern, piecing together the life of this Keqing from the primary dimension. Thunder Cmity Keqing''s eyes suddenly welled up.


    If none of those things had happened, if it hadn''t been for that man named Lucas''s bullying, could this have been her life too?


    She slowly pushed open the door. It was alreadyte at night, and the moonlight bathed her porcin-like skin. The Electro Vision at her waist gave off a faint glow.


    So, in the dream, not only had she not fallen, but she had also be the Yuheng Star and obtained a Vision...


    How envious...


    At least in this dream, she had achieved her childhood dream.


    The endless killing had made Thunder Cmity Keqing forget that she once had such a wish.


    "The night is long, and sleep escapes me. I thought I was the only one who couldn''t sleep, but it turns out even the youngdy is still awake?"


    At that moment, a slightlyzy voice suddenly sounded from behind Keqing.


    "Who''s there?!"


    Years of life-and-death battles had honed the instincts of the Keqing from the other dimension. Like a sh of lightning, she instantly appeared in front of the speaker.


    However, upon seeing the person''s face, Keqing''s expression showed utter shock.


    Lucas!


    Indeed, no matter what, she would never forget this man, even if he turned to ashes!


    He was the source of all her misfortune!


    The person who had appeared behind her was none other than Lucas. He had merelye out for some fresh air, not expecting to run into a Keqing whose mind was temporarily overtaken by the "Thunder Cmity."


    "It''s... you..." Keqing gritted her teeth.


    "It''s me," Lucas responded with a smile, seemingly unaware of Keqing''s strange behavior. "What''s wrong, youngdy? Didn''t we just meet? If you have any instructions, just let me know."


    Youngdy?


    Why was he addressing her like that?


    Keqing felt a wave of confusion.


    The Lucas she remembered was an arrogant, bullying scoundrel, but this Lucas in front of her was dressed like a servant, and his demeanor was much more humble.


    Ah, right! This is a dream!


    Keqing immediately understood.


    From what had happened so far, it was clear that everything in this dream was following her desires.


    A warm and harmonious family, bing the Yuheng Star, obtaining a Vision...


    Even the person she hated most had be her servant!


    "Keh keh... So that''s how it is..." Realizing this, Keqing couldn''t help but let out a strange chuckle. "This is... so amusing..."


    Her suddenughter made Lucas''s spine tingle.


    Goodness, wandering around at this hour, not returning to her room to sleep, and nowughing like this. Could she be possessed by something evil?


    "So..." Keqing narrowed her eyes slightly and said, "You''re my servant?"


    Was she still half-asleep?


    "Yes, youngdy." Though a bit puzzled, Lucas pointed to the number on his chest and said, "It''s right here¡ªsenior servant, Lucas, No. 9527."


    What a twist of fate...


    Keqing sneered internally. How should she deal with this guy?


    Should she run him through with her sword?


    No. In the "real" world, she had already killed Lucas once.


    While it had indeed felt sweet to taste the fruits of revenge at that moment, after watching his lifeless body fall at her feet, all she had felt was a void.


    It wasn''t untilter that she realized: death is just a momentary pain and despair. As a method of revenge, it was the lowest form of punishment.


    Indeed, simply killing him would be far too easy!


    She wanted to humiliate and torment him repeatedly, until she grew tired of it, and then kill him.


    At this point, Keqing was entirely driven by her desire for revenge, seemingly unaware that this so-called "dream" might notst long.


    "So..." Keqing said coldly, "You''ll obey all my orders?"


    Lucas nodded. "Bymon reasoning, that does seem to be the case."


    Wait, why am I speaking so oddly?


    "Very well!"


    Keqing sat down on a stone bench nearby, lifted one foot, and sneered, "Then take off my shoes."


    Lucas was puzzled. "Why on earth should I take off your shoes?"


    "You don''t have the right to ask questions," Keqing nearly pressed her toes against Lucas''s face. "Do as I say."


    Lucas furrowed his brow, but as the saying goes, "A person under another''s roof must bow their head." Moreover, due to his actions in the "Viin Simtor," he had always harbored a subtle sense of guilt toward Keqing.


    So, after a brief moment of hesitation, Lucas crouched down and carefully lifted Keqing''s high heel.


    This was the first time in "reality" that Lucas had observed a girl''s foot up close, though in the simtor, he had already toyed with Shenhe''s feet countless times.


    Wait a minute, this isn''t the time to be thinking about Shenhe!


    As memories of the hundred days he spent with Shenhe in the simtor surfaced, Lucas felt his face heat up.


    Shaking off those distracting thoughts, he slowly removed Keqing''s high heel and held her small foot in his hand.


    So, Keqing''s feet... are this small?


    They were quite different from Shenhe''s. Shenhe''s feet were longer and colder, with a texture akin to fine porcin rather than human skin.


    Keqing''s feet, on the other hand, were much warmer. Small and delicate, they were uniquely cute as they rested in his palm.


    Keqing seemed to notice that the man in front of her was staring at her foot. Her face flushed as she coldly demanded, "What are you looking at?"


    "I was just..." Lucas immediately realized his "impropriety." Quickly averting his gaze, his face reddened as he stammered, "N-nothing. If there''s nothing else, I''ll head back."


    "Who said you could leave?" Keqing sneered. "Next, kiss my toes."


    What now?


    This degrading way of humiliation! Can you bear it?


    Keqing probably didn''t realize that what she intended as "humiliation" might, for some people, be considered an ultimate "reward."


    Hearing her words, Lucas''s mind buzzed.


    What kind of strange request is this?


    Could this be some kind of "obedience test"?


    Lucas had heard that in feudal times, some people would make others perform humiliating acts to train their obedience.


    However, as he looked at Keqing''s cute, snow-white toes, resembling delicate jade, he hesitated.


    Kiss them, and lose his dignity.


    Don''t kiss them, and lose his job.


    Finally, after a brief mental struggle, Lucas raised his head and awkwardly said, "I guess... I can''t do it after all."


    "Hmph..."


    Keqing coldly snorted, her hand moving to the hilt of her sword.


    If he refuses to be humiliated, then he can die!


    But before she could act, Lucas continued, "Feet have a lot of bacteria, you know. I don''t even know if you, youngdy, have cleaned your feet properly. Kissing them without care seems unhygienic. If I catch athlete''s foot from this, that would be troublesome..."


    (AN: athlete''s foot is amon fungal infection that affects the skin on feet)


    "Wh-what are you saying?!"


    Keqing''s temper red immediately upon hearing his words. She shoved Lucas aside, shouting angrily, "I''ll wash them right now!"


    Since her descent into the Abyss, Keqing had be impulsive and quick to anger¡ªtraits that earned her the title of "Thunder Cmity."


    Without even putting on the shoe she had just removed, Keqing stormed over to the courtyard pond, intending to wash her feet right then and there.


    Her heavy footsteps startled the koi resting in the pond.


    "Hey, hey, don''t wash your feet in there!" Lucas hurriedly warned, "What if you fall into the pond? It''s dangerous..."


    "What nonsense! I''m the mighty Thunder¡ªSPLASH!"


    Before she could finish, Keqing lost her bnce due to having one foot bare and fell right into the water.


    "Thunder what?" Lucas mumbled, "Thunderfish?"


    Luckily, the decorative pond wasn''t very deep, so falling in posed no real danger.


    Ten secondster, Keqing was still struggling in the water.


    Thirty secondster, her struggle ceased, and small bubbles began to rise to the surface.


    A minuteter, the water returned to stillness.


    No way...


    Could it be that Keqing was actually a non-swimmer?


    Indeed, whether in this dimension or another, Keqing couldn''t swim at all.


    Without hesitation, Lucas immediately jumped into the cold water.


    Soon, he resurfaced, dragging a dazed Keqing out of the pond.


    "Hey, hey!" Lucas patted her cheek, panicking. "Are you okay?"


    Keqing coughed out some water, her voice weak. "I think... I saw my dead uncle waving at me from behind a bridge..."


    The Bridge of Helplessness?


    "Don''t go!" Lucas quickly urged, "If you cross it, you''ll die for sure!"


    "My uncle..." Keqing murmured, "He was saying something..."


    "What was he saying?" Lucas shook her a bit, his voice urgent. "He must''ve been telling you to stay strong, right?"


    "My uncle said..." Keqing muttered, "What you love is your life..."


    With that, Keqing slowly closed her eyes, falling into unconsciousness.


    Which uncle are you talking about? Is it Uncle Chen?


    Lucas shook Keqing''s shoulders, panic rising. "Miss, wake up! Don''t go with your uncle! He''s not a good guy! You don''t want to be his pet, do you?"


    It was only now that Lucas realized Keqing had earlier mentioned something about "Thunder"¡ªThunder Rex, right?


    Staring at the now pale-faced Keqing, Lucas was at a loss for what to do.


    [What are you waiting for? ording to the plot, now''s the time for CPR.]


    ----

 Chapter 20: Villain Simulator, Ch 20

    <h4>Chapter 20: Viin Simtor, Ch 20</h4>


    Not only within the simtor, but even in reality, Xiao Xi was able to give hints.


    Indeed, there was no other option at the moment.


    Looking at Keqing''s gradually paling lips, Lucas could only lower his head helplessly and say, "Miss... forgive me"


    ...


    Half an hourter.


    "Achoo!" Sitting by the bedside, Lucas sneezed. He nced helplessly at Keqing, who was now lying in his bed, and muttered to himself, "I can''t believe you actually don''t know how to swim..."


    For some reason, he felt that the Keqing he had encountered earlier seemed a bit strange. In his eyes, although Keqing was of noble status, she didn''t have the temperament of a spoiled youngdy. Normally, she wouldn''t make such unreasonable demands.


    "Hmm..."


    At that moment, the unconscious Keqing slowly opened her eyes.


    "Miss, you''re finally awake!"


    Seeing Keqing regain consciousness, Lucas finally felt a weight lifted off his shoulders and sighed in relief. "It''s great that you''re okay."


    "What... exactly happened?"


    Keqing had now regained her awareness. She remembered sleeping in her own room, so how had she suddenly ended up in Lucas''s room?


    "Don''t tell me you don''t remember anything?" Lucas asked, puzzled. He then recounted everything that had just happened to Keqing in full detail.


    The more Keqing listened, the more shocked her expression became.


    Because she had absolutely no recollection of the events Lucas was describing.


    "So, you''re saying I not only fell into the pond and almost drowned, but I also made you kiss my... my..." At this point, a light blush appeared on Keqing''s fair cheeks. "No way... how could I do something like that? I don''t remember any of it."


    Seeing Keqing''s reaction, Lucas began to reflect.


    Perhaps the youngdy of Liyue Qixing, Keqing, was just too embarrassed. After all, for a dignified figure like her to nearly drown in a pond would be incredibly humiliating if anyone found out.


    So, she must be "ying dumb," pretending not to remember what had happened.


    As a high-EQ servant, Lucas silently praised himself for his astuteness and nodded in agreement. "I suppose the youngdy must have been sleepwalking due to the stress of worktely. Don''t worry, I won''t tell anyone about this."


    "So... that''s what it was?" Surprisingly, Keqing seemed to believe him. She nodded and said, "In any case, I should return to my room now. If anyone sees me in a servant''s room, that would be..."


    As she spoke, Keqing started to sit up. The thin nket that had been covering her slid off due to gravity, falling to the floor.


    Feeling a chill, Keqing instinctively nced down, only to realize... she wasn''t wearing anything!


    Lucas, also taken by surprise, inadvertently let his gaze fall on her, only to quickly avert his eyes once he realized what he was doing.


    "Ahhh!!!" Keqing let out a sharp scream, hastily grabbing the nket to cover herself. Both shocked and furious, she eximed, "You pervert! I... how could I...!"


    "Don''t misunderstand!" Lucas quickly exined, "You fell into the pond and were soaked from head to toe. If you didn''t change out of those clothes, you could''ve gotten sick. Don''t worry, I undressed you with my eyes closed¡ªI swear I didn''t see anything!"


    "But..." Keqing''s face was now so red it looked like it might start dripping blood. "Just now... you saw everything, didn''t you?"


    "That doesn''t count!" Lucas protested, "Miss, you really should¡ª"


    Before he could finish, there was a sudden sound of hurried footsteps outside the door.


    "Miss Keqing!" Chunxiang''s voice came from outside, "Are you in there? I thought I heard you scream just now!"


    Chunxiang was indeed Keqing''s most trusted maid. Even in the dead of night, she could somehow hear Keqing''s voice. Did she have some kind of "Keqing Radar" on her head?


    At this point, both Lucas and Keqing looked as though they had turned to stone.


    It was the middle of the night, and the two of them were alone in a room, with one of them practically undressed. If they were caught, there wouldn''t be any way to exin the situation.


    "Lucas!" Chunxiang''s voice grew more anxious when no response came from inside. "What have you done to Miss Keqing?!"


    Lucas didn''t dare make a sound, casting a desperate, pleading nce at Keqing. Keqing, for her part, was in aplete panic, unsure of what to do.


    "Not answering, huh?" Chunxiang cracked her knuckles and said, "Fine! I''m breaking down the door!"


    Although Chunxiang was a woman, she was quite strong. Even without a Vision, she possessed considerable skill, and breaking through a door wouldn''t be difficult for her.


    "Bam!"


    Just as Chunxiang was preparing to punch through the door, it suddenly swung open, revealing Keqing standing there. She was wearing a freshly dried robe. Before Chunxiang could say anything, Keqing quickly pulled her into the room.


    The room was neat and tidy, with no signs of a struggle. Lucas sat off to the side, an awkward smile on his face.


    "Shh!" Keqing put her finger to Chunxiang''s lips, her expressionplicated. "Chunxiang, let me exin..."


    Honestly, Keqing hadn''t yete up with a reasonable exnation.


    But to her surprise, Chunxiang suddenly patted her on the shoulder, her face showing understanding. "There''s no need to exin, Miss. I understandpletely. You must havee to see Lucas for a massage, right? That scream earlier was because it felt so good, wasn''t it?"


    Keqing hadn''t expected Chunxiang''s imagination to run so wild, but she quickly nodded in agreement. "Yes... that''s right, I came for a massage."


    "How was it? Wasn''t it amazing?" Chunxiang''s eyes sparkled. "Honestly, Miss, you don''t need to be so shy. If you want a massage, juste right out and say so. Why sneak around like this?"


    "It was just a spur-of-the-moment decision," Keqing mumbled, pushing Chunxiang toward the door. "Alright, it''ste, let''s go now. I''ve got tasks to assign him tomorrow."


    Before leaving, Keqing shot a re at Lucas.


    It seemed that she wasn''t going to forget what he had identally seen anytime soon.


    Once the two women had left, Lucas let out a sigh of relief. He had only wanted some fresh air and ended up with so much trouble.


    Opening the "Simtor Interface," he intended to check the afk progress before going to sleep. However, what he saw made him gasp.


    [Age 138: You can now swing a sword 10,000 times without breaking a sweat. Your strength has increased significantly (Talent: ''Old But Vigorous'' activated).]


    [Age 139: This year marks the hundredth year you''ve spent in the cer. Your strength continues to grow each year, but what''s even stranger is that you seem to have been forgotten by death itself. Your lifespan has long exceeded that of a normal human.]


    [Age 140: The bread stored in the cer has be as hard as stone, yet your stomach seems capable of digesting any kind of food. However, despite this, you identally chipped a tooth. But you''re not worried, as you know the broken tooth will soon grow back.]


    [Indeed, during your hundred years of solitude, you''ve lost quite a few teeth. Strangely, they always grow back. Moreover, your appearance and body have not aged despite the passage of time¡ªinstead, you''ve grown more youthful and strong, maintaining the form of someone in their thirties.]


    [You suspect that the Durin''s toxin and various potions have caused a special reaction in your body, allowing you to slow the aging process. Or perhaps, due to years of immersion in the art of immortality, you''ve identally acquired an immortal body.]


    [However, none of this matters to you anymore. A hundred years of solitude has changed your way of thinking. You once tried to break through the barrier sealing the cer, but failed. Yet, strangely, this gave you a sense offort. It''s as if, like a prisoner who bes ustomed to life in confinement after decades, you too have grown used to the dark cer. You can even see clearly in the darkness now.]


    [In truth, given your intelligence, you could likely find another way out, but you feel that your beloved Rosalyne has long since passed away. You''ve lost the reason to leave and have resigned yourself to living out the rest of your life here.]


    [Achievement Unlocked: Cer Dweller]


    [Talent Reward: Night Vision]


    [Night Vision]


    [Effect: You can see in the dark.]


    "140 years old? Oh my gosh..."


    Lucas was stunned. After just a short idle period, his simtor self had been trapped in the cer for a hundred years?


    Originally, he had thought that with the talents [Old But Vigorous] and [Die of Old Age], he''d be lucky to live until 80 or 90 and be a great master.


    In Teyvat, while there were many long-lived races, humans were not among them. No matter how strong they became, ordinary humans could not surpass the limits of their lifespan.


    But as for himself? He had already lived to 140, and instead of bing frail with age, he seemed to be growing younger.


    "Oh well... let''s keep it running."


    Lucas yawned. So much had happened today, and after lying down, he quickly drifted off to sleep.


    That night, Lucas slept incredibly well. Ever since crossing into Teyvat, this was the first time he had truly slept soundly in a real bed.


    He slept until morning without even dreaming. After all, the events in the [Viin Simtor] were far more thrilling than any dream could be.


    Upon waking up, the first thing Lucas did was check the idle progress. It felt like ying one of those idle mobile games where you wake up in the morning to harvest the results.


    [Age 231: Today marks your 200th wedding anniversary with Rosalyne. You know that a 60-year marriage is called a "diamond anniversary," but you''re not sure what a 200-year anniversary is called, since such a long marriage has likely never existed.]


    [So, you call it the "Tungsten Anniversary," named after the metal with the highest melting point, tomemorate how the two of you once almost burned to ashes together.]


    [Age 232: Lately, you''ve taken up ying chess against yourself.]


    [Age 233: You''ve adopted a group of rats as pets. Under your training, they''ve learned to follow simplemands. Moreover, you''ve begun using their corpses as materials for your experiments.]


    [Age 234: Your need for food and water has diminished. Sometimes, you can go one or two weeks without eating.]


    [Age 235: You...]


    "Still not dead, huh..."


    What an "immortal old man."


    Maybe because of yesterday''s discovery, Lucas wasn''t particrly surprised this time.


    The simtor''s speed wasn''t slow. At this rate, a day of idling would cover 400 to 500 years. Even if his simtor self had a long lifespan, he couldn''t live for thousands of years, right? After all, even the Geo Archon Morax only lived for about 6,000 years.


    However, what surprised Lucas the most was that he had spent 200 years in the cer. A normal person would''ve broken down long ago.


    Luckily, he didn''t have to experience such a life himself.


    After a brief wash, Lucas made his way to Keqing''s study, as they had agreed the day before, and gently knocked on the door.


    "Who is it?" A tired voice came from inside.


    "Lucas."


    Hearing his name, there was a brief pause before the voice continued, "Come in. The door''s not locked."


    Lucas opened the door and walked in. The study had a rather traditional style, with arge panoramic map of Liyue hanging on one of the walls.


    Therge desk was cluttered with various documents, clearly Keqing''s workspace.


    However, seeing the desk reminded Lucas of the time in the simtor when he and Shenhe had used such a desk as a hiding spot to y certain "games." The vivid memories made his face flush slightly.


    "Ahem..." Keqing''s voice snapped him out of his thoughts. "What are you daydreaming about?"


    "S-sorry!" Lucas quickly looked at Keqing and was surprised. "Miss, yourplexion... why does it look so bad?"


    Indeed, Keqing''s face was pale, and dark circles had formed under her eyes. It was obvious she hadn''t slept well.


    Last night, after returning to her room, Keqing had dreamt of bing the "Thunder Cmity," a high-ranking member of the Abyss Order.


    Strangely, in the dream, she fully embraced this "evil" persona,mitting various acts that harmed Liyue. When she woke up, the vividness of the dream left her feeling puzzled.


    The dream had been so real, almost as if she had truly traveled to a parallel world and existed as another person.


    "It''s nothing, just some insomnia," Keqing replied, unwilling to reveal her "secret" to Lucas. She opened a drawer, pulled out a document, and handed it to him.


    "Even though your role is a servant, you''re still my personal attendant, so you won''t need to do menial chores. Justplete the tasks I assign to you. The rest of your time is your own, and you don''t have to stay in the manor if you don''t want to. Today''s task is to deliver this document to Lady Ganyu at Yuehai Pavilion."


    "Ganyu?" Lucas was startled and blurted, "You mean the Ganyu from the Qixing?"


    Ganyu was one of the most well-known figures in Liyue Harbor, her reputation rivaling even that of the Liyue Qixing themselves.


    After all, while the Qixing often changed, the Messenger of the Qixing had remained for over 3,000 years.


    Not only was she "living history," but she was also one of the few Adepti who regrly interacted with mortals.


    "You even know about her?" Keqing nodded. "Yes, that''s her. But you don''t need to be nervous. Ganyu is very kind and easy to get along with. Of course... getting too close to her is unlikely."


    Indeed, although Ganyu had lived in Liyue Harbor for thousands of years, she had never fully integrated into human society. Even Keqing, who worked closely with Ganyu, could only consider her a colleague rather than a friend.


    This made sense, considering the vast difference in lifespans between humans and Adepti. Forming deep rtionships with humans would be difficult when their lives were so brief inparison.


    As Keqing thought, "It''s like how most people wouldn''t bother keeping pets with only a few months to live." To Ganyu, human lifespans might not seem much different.


    "Miss, you''re joking. I''m just amoner¡ªhow could I possibly befriend such an important figure?" Lucas chuckled self-deprecatingly. "Anyway, I''ll go right away. You should get some rest, Miss Keqing."


    ----


    Author''s Note: Leave a review and I''ll post an extra Chapter today!!


    Make sure to donate powerstones!

 Chapter 21: Villain Simulator, Ch 21

    <h4>Chapter 21: Viin Simtor, Ch 21</h4>


    "I don''t have much time to rest," Keqing said with a yawn. "By the way, there''s some money in another envelope. Since you''re new to Liyue, take some time to familiarize yourself with the ce."


    "Thank you, Miss Keqing" Lucas nodded and then left the room.


    As she watched him leave, Keqing instinctively furrowed her brow again.


    If it weren''t for the intense hatred she felt for him in "that dream," she wouldn''t believe that this cheerful young man could be an evil person.


    What''s more, if he were truly evil, he would have taken advantage of her while she was unconscious after almost drowningst night. But her body was unharmed¡ªnot a trace of inappropriate behavior, not even a mark.


    Could it be... she was mistaken?


    No...


    Their brief time together wasn''t enough to reveal someone''s true nature. Maybe he was just hiding it well. More time was needed for observation.


    Even if Lucas wasn''t a bad person, keeping him around the manor as a servant wouldn''t cause any harm.


    ...


    After leaving the manor, Lucas casually opened the envelope, only to be shocked to find that Keqing had given him 200,000 Mora.


    While it wasn''t a fortune, it was certainly a generous amount for a servant''s allowance.


    Keqing''s family truly was wealthy.


    Without wasting time, Lucas headed toward Yuehai Pavilion.


    Though it was his first time in Liyue, thanks to the two previous simtions where he had been a Liyue native, he wasn''tpletely unfamiliar with theyout of the city. After asking for directions once or twice, he found himself at the entrance of Yuehai Pavilion.


    As one of the most important administrative offices in Liyue, Yuehai Pavilion was an impressive and grand building.


    Just as Lucas was about to enter, a guard dressed in the Qianyan Army uniform blocked his way. "Who goes there? No unauthorized entry into Yuehai Pavilion!"


    "I''m here on behalf of Lady Keqing," Lucas said, presenting the document sealed with Keqing''s Yuheng Star insignia. "This document is to be delivered personally to Lady Ganyu."


    "Alright, no problem." After inspecting the seal, the guard nodded and allowed Lucas to pass. "Lady Ganyu''s office is on the top floor,st room on the left. Don''t go the wrong way."


    Meanwhile, in Ganyu''s office...


    "Phew... so tired..." Ganyu stood up after reviewing hundreds of documents, stretching as she spoke to herself. "I''m so hungry... Oh, right, I think there are still some snacks in the drawer..."


    Her hand instinctively reached for the drawer handle, but she quickly pulled it back, a look of resignation on her face. "No, I can''t. I''ve already exceeded my calorie limit for today. If I eat more, I won''t be able to hide the extra weight..."


    Ganyu''s outfit, known as "Frostdew", was designed by her adoptive mother, Cloud Retainer. It consisted of a tight ck bodysuit under a flowing gown.


    This wasn''t some entric choice by Cloud Retainer but a deliberate way to encourage Ganyu to maintain her figure. After all, even a little extra weight would be noticeable in such form-fitting attire.


    Ganyu lifted her gown and pinched her belly, sighing. "Looks like I need to cut back on my food again... ugh."


    "Uh... excuse me..."


    A voice suddenly came from the doorway. Startled, Ganyu looked up to see a handsome young man standing there, his gaze momentarily lingering on her stomach.


    Awkward...


    So awkward!


    As one of the prestigious emissaries of the Qixing, being caught ying with her belly in the office was beyond embarrassing!


    Quickly dropping her gown, Ganyu blushed and said, "Sorry... What can I help you with?"


    The person, of course, was Lucas. He had to admit, walking in and seeing such a beautiful woman pinching her own belly was a bit... odd.


    Keqing, Shenhe, Rosalyn¡ªthey were all stunning women, but they were still human. Compared to Ganyu, with her half-Adeptus heritage, there was something uniquely different about her aura.


    "I''m here on behalf of Lady Keqing to deliver some documents," Lucas exined. "Now that I''ve done that, I should be on my way."


    "Please... wait a moment!" Ganyu, her expression somewhat conflicted, said, "I just made a pot of tea. Why don''t you stay and have some before leaving?"


    "Well, in that case, I''ll dly ept." Lucas, unsure why she was asking him to stay, didn''t want to seem rude, so he sat down.


    "Um..." Ganyu''s face turned slightly red as she hesitated, "About what you saw just now..."


    What he saw just now?


    Lucas immediately understood.


    Was she referring to him catching her pinching her belly?


    Even as an Adeptus, it seemed that Ganyu, like any other girl, was shy about such things.


    She probably wanted him to stay so she could ask him to keep it a secret.


    Just as Lucas was about to say something, the system''s voice suddenly appeared.


    [Faced with Ganyu''s subtle hint, your response is...]


    [1. Lady Ganyu, you wouldn''t want your subordinates to know that you were pinching your belly in your office, right?]


    [2. Just thinking about that sight will let me eat three bowls of rice!]


    What? I have to choose now?


    Like I''m really going to choose one of those!


    Why is the system giving me options now? This is real life, not the simtor!


    [Xiao Xi is just offering feasible suggestions.]


    Neither of these options is feasible! If I actually said either of them, I''d probably be arrested on the spot for being disrespectful.


    Almost "betrayed" by the system, Lucas smiled slightly and said, "What I saw? All I saw was Lady Ganyu working diligently in her office. As for anything else, I didn''t see a thing."


    Although Ganyu was simple-minded, she wasn''t foolish. She quickly understood the meaning behind Lucas''s words.


    What a high-EQ response...


    She couldn''t help but feel a slight appreciation for this stranger.


    Of course, it was only a small appreciation.


    As an Adeptus, there was no way she could ever form a deeper connection with humans. This would be the first andst time she crossed paths with this man.


    "I..."


    Just as Ganyu was about to say something else, a paper crane glowing with a soft light flew in from the window, circling around her beforending gently in her hand.


    "This is... a message from Cloud Retainer."


    Ganyu was momentarily surprised. Due to her busy work schedule, she seldom visited Mount Aozang to see her adoptive mother, Cloud Retainer. Theirmunication was usually through letters folded into paper cranes.


    However, Cloud Retainer had already sent her a message just a few months ago. Why another one today? Could something urgent have happened?


    "Please give me a moment." Ganyu nodded at Lucas before hurriedly opening the letter.


    ---


    Ganyu, my dear daughter,


    As you read this letter, do not worry. There is no pressing matter. However, yesterday I sent your junior sister, Shenhe, down the mountain for training. Although she has inherited my teachings and possesses great strength, herck of experience and long absence from the world may make it difficult for her to adjust. If you have the chance, please assist her where you can.


    Also, I have been urging you about your marriage for quite some time. Now that Shenhe has left the mountain and I am living alone, I find myself somewhat bored. I hope that you will soon find a suitable partner and have children. I can help raise them, and they will provide me with some amusement.


    I know several promising Adeptus men. If you have not found a match within three days, I will arrange blind dates for you with them. This is not negotiable.


    ¡ªCloud Retainer


    ---


    After reading the letter, Ganyu''s expression darkened.


    Of course, it wasn''t Shenhe''s matter that bothered her. Though she didn''t know Shenhe well, she was more than willing to assist her "junior sister."


    What gave her a headache was Cloud Retainer''s "marriage pressure."


    Though Cloud Retainer wasn''t Ganyu''s biological mother, she had raised her since childhood. The bond they shared was no different from that of a real mother and daughter.


    Though Ganyu still appeared to be a young woman, she was, by qilin standards, well past the age of marriage. Like any parent, Cloud Retainer wanted to see her daughter settled down rather than remain alone.


    More importantly, if Ganyu were to marry and have children, Cloud Retainer could finally have some little qilins to... y with¡ªno, to help raise!


    For decades now, Cloud Retainer had subtly been dropping hints about marriage. Every time Ganyu visited, Cloud Retainer would wistfully remark, "It would be so nice if you brought someone with you next time."


    However, Ganyu was highly focused on her career and had never met a man who caught her interest, so she hadn''t been able to fulfill Cloud Retainer''s hopes.


    It seemed this time, Cloud Retainer had truly run out of patience. With her personality, if Ganyu didn''t respond soon, she''d surely drag her to a blind date.


    Wait!


    All she needed was to find a man who could temporarily pretend to be her "boyfriend" to cate Cloud Retainer. Then she wouldn''t have to go on any blind dates!


    But where could she find a man in such a short time, someone who was trustworthy, with a clean background, and skilled at keeping secrets?


    "Lady Ganyu, you don''t look so well..." Lucas suddenly said. "Is there anything I can help with?"


    That''s it!


    An idea struck Ganyu. This man in front of her was the perfect candidate!


    His character seemed good, and as Keqing''s personal attendant, his background was assured.


    More importantly, he appeared capable of keeping secrets.


    "Mr. Lucas, I do have... a rather difficult request," Ganyu said, lowering her head slightly. "Could you... be my husband?"


    What?


    Was that... a proposal?


    That''s so sudden!


    Ganyu''s words left Lucas stunned. Seeing his reaction, Ganyu quickly rified, "Please don''t misunderstand. What I mean is, could you temporarily pretend to be my husband to deal with my mother''s marriage pressure?"


    She then exined her n to Lucas in detail.


    "Don''t worry, I wouldn''t ask you to help for free," Ganyu added. "Afterward, I''ll be sure to reward you properly."


    A reward from Ganyu...


    To be honest, Lucas couldn''t help but feel a little curious.


    Moreover, given Ganyu''s status, there was no way she''d deceive someone like him.


    And, most importantly, helping her out aligned with his personal principle of "doing a good deed every day."


    "There''s no need for a reward, really. Given all that Lady Ganyu has done for Liyue, I''d be more than happy to assist with this small matter," Lucas said, nodding. "So, I''m willing."


    "That''s wonderful!" Ganyu sighed in relief, standing up. "There''s no time to waste. Let''s get started right away!"


    "Start?"


    Start what?


    Wait, based on what Ganyu just said, the reason why Cloud Retainer was so eager to push for marriage seemed to be because she wanted to hold a little qilin grandchild as soon as possible.


    Could it be that Ganyu wanted to start "making qilins" with him?


    Isn''t this moving a bit too fast?


    "Th-this doesn''t seem right," Lucas hesitated, his expression a bit uncertain. "Shouldn''t we at least have tea, watch a show, stroll through the night market, and then maybe..."


    "Why make it soplicated?" Ganyu tilted her head slightly. "I just want to take a photo of us together to send to Cloud Retainer and calm her down."


    As she spoke, Ganyu pulled out an exquisitely crafted Kamera from her drawer.


    However, the moment Lucas saw the Kamera, his expression shifted, bing a bit grim.


    After all, in the previous run of the Life Simtor, it was because of a Kamera that he met a tragic end at the hands of the crazed Shenhe.


    "So... it''s just for a photo?" Lucas awkwardlyughed.


    "Of course," Ganyu replied, looking like it was the most obvious thing in the world. "What else did you think?"


    "N-nothing!" Lucas quickly shook his head.


    Starting to make a little qilin together... There was no way he could say that out loud!


    "This is called a Kamera, a creation from Sumeru. It captures an image and imprints it onto a special type of paper," Ganyu exined as she fiddled with it. "I think this is how it works. First, you..."


    -----


    Author''s Note: Please donate powerstones and leave reviews!! We need to get to the ranking page by new week!!!


    I can release 2 more Chapters today so go leave a review now!!!!

 Chapter 22: Villain Simulator, Ch 22

    <h4>Chapter 22: Viin Simtor, Ch 22</h4>


    After about ten minutes of fiddling with the camera, Ganyu was already sweating, flustered, and frustrated. "How strange... why can''t I figure out how this works?"


    After all, Ganyu was an "old" Adeptus, over 3,000 years old. Watching her struggle with the Kamera reminded Lucas of elderly people first learning how to use smartphones.


    Of course, she was a very beautiful and cute "elderlydy."


    "Let me handle it," Lucas offered. He quickly adjusted the settings with a few swift moves and said, "This model is quite advanced; it even has a timer function."


    "Wow... that''s impressive!" Ganyu''s eyes filled with curiosity. "But, Mr. Li, didn''t you say you''re from a remote area? How do you know how to operate such modern devices?"


    Uh-oh...


    He couldn''t possibly tell her that he learned how to use it through the life simtor, could he?


    "Um... Miss Keqing taught me," Lucas quickly came up with an excuse, smiling. "You know how girls are¡ªthey love taking pictures."


    "I see," Ganyu nodded thoughtfully. "So... can we start now?"


    "Yes, everything is ready," Lucas replied, sitting beside Ganyu. "Is this pose okay?"


    "I''m not really sure," Ganyu frowned slightly and asked, "How do couples usually pose for photos?"


    "Well..." Lucas suddenly pointed out the window and said, "Maybe like that?"


    Following his gaze, Ganyu saw a young couple sitting on a bench in Yujing Terrace''s garden, acting affectionately with each other¡ªclearly a pair of lovers.


    "Do... do we have to go that far?" Ganyu blushed even more but then nodded resolutely. "Cloud Retainer is very experienced and hard to fool. If we want her to believe it, we''ll have to do this properly."


    Taking a deep breath, Ganyu shuffled closer to Lucas. In a voice barely above a whisper, she said, "P-please... put your arm around my shoulder... I''m counting on you..."


    Seeing Ganyu''s shy, vulnerable expression, Lucas felt his heart melt.


    Besides, helping people was always a good thing, right? Nodding, he carefully ced his hand on her shoulder.


    Her skin was smooth and cold like snow, soft and delicate. The faint fragrance in the air made Lucas''s throat go dry.


    And it wasn''t just him¡ªGanyu was also extremely tense. Despite her thousands of years of life, this was the first time she had been so close to a man, and her body stiffened with nerves.


    "Look at the camera... smile... click!"


    The shutter clicked, and the first photo appeared in Ganyu''s hand. Although the two looked close, the picture seemed a bit off¡ªespecially their awkward expressions.


    "Maybe... we should take a few more," Ganyu suggested, unsatisfied. She pulled Lucas for several more shots, changing poses each time.


    Finally, Ganyu picked one that looked a bit more natural.


    "This one is perfect," Ganyu nodded in approval. "Even Cloud Retainer shouldn''t be able to spot anything suspicious."


    "That''s good," Lucas said, ncing at the remaining photos on the table. "So, what do you n to do with the other photos?"


    "This is a secret between us," Ganyu frowned, "so aside from the one for Cloud Retainer, the rest must be destroyed."


    "I see..." Lucas couldn''t help but show a hint of regret on his face.


    Noticing his expression, Ganyu hesitated for a moment before picking up one photo and handing it to him with a small smile. "It would be a shame to burn them all. You can keep this one as a memento."


    "Really? Thank you!" Lucas hesitated for a moment and asked, "But aren''t you worried someone else might find it?"


    "I chose you because I trust you," Ganyu shook her head. "I''m certain you''ll keep your promise."


    "Of course!" Lucas solemnly ced the photo in his pocket. "Lady Ganyu, until we meet again."


    As she watched Lucas walk away, a strange feeling of emptiness welled up in Ganyu''s heart.


    "Until we meet again?"


    But with almost no connection between them, it''s likely they''ll never meet again, right?


    After quickly writing a reply, Ganyu tucked the selected photo into a paper crane and sent it out the window. The crane flew off swiftly, disappearing from her sight in no time.


    Ganyu then picked up the remaining photos, sighed softly, and prepared to feed them into the shredder. However, seeing their slightly awkward smiles in the pictures made the corners of her lips curl into a barely noticeable smile.


    ---


    "Buzz, buzz, buzz!"


    As the shredder whirred, the photos quickly turned into snowke-like pieces of paper.


    However, Ganyu quietly slipped one remaining photo into the deepest part of her drawer.


    She wasn''t sure why she did it.


    Still, it should be safe there, where no one would find it, right?


    ---


    [You have earned 1,000 Virtue Points!]


    Just after leaving the room, Lucas noticed the system''s reward notification.


    Looks like his decision had been the right one.


    Seeing that he had umted a fair amount of points, Lucas opened the store and decided to exchange them for something useful.


    [Nobita Nobi''s Gunmanship], 1,000 points, redeemed.


    [Nobita Nobi''s Gunmanship]


    [Rank]: B


    [Effect]: Proficiency in all types of firearms raised to Advanced level; Handgun proficiency raised to Expert level.


    [Description]: Don''t ask why Nobita''s gunmanship is so good¡ªit''s just part of the story.


    Although [Charging Fist] had decent damage, it required him to take hits first. Now that he had received a firearm-rted skill, it would be a waste not to use it.


    Though ordinary guns might not be effective against opponents with Visions, they should still be enough to intimidate regr people.


    Afterward, Lucas decided to check the simtion''s idle progress.


    [Age 378: You discovered that you could enter a state of hibernation like certain animals. While in this state, your body''s consumption drops to nearly zero.]


    [Age 379: You spent a year in hibernation. Even while hibernating, your internal strength continued to grow. Moreover, as the years pass, the rate at which your strength increases seems to be elerating. Although the growth each year is small, after 200 years, it has reached a significant level (Talent [Old But Vigorous] activated).]


    [Age 380: You still often feel like your body is burning. You realize that this sensation may not just be an illusion. Fortunately, the pain subsides while you''re hibernating. The longer you hibernate, the longer the burning sensation stays away.]


    [Age 381: You feel that with your current power, you could leave the cer. But each time you attempt it, you find yourself unable to make the decision. You decide to enter a long period of hibernation, waiting for the burning sensation topletely vanish before leaving.]


    [Age 382: You are in hibernation.]


    [Age 383: You are in hibernation.]


    [Age 384: You are in hibernation.]


    "Is he hibernating again?"


    It seemed that his "self" in the simtor had the strength to leave the cer now but was still hesitant.


    After all, centuries had passed, and he couldn''t be sure what the outside world was like. Maybe there was no longer a ce for him.


    Three hundred years of solitude had made Lucas''s simted self fully ustomed to istion.


    To him, the outside world might just be a "bigger cer."


    "Oh, right..." Lucas suddenly thought of something. "Can I use immersive mode to take control and leave the cer?"


    [In immersive mode, you cannot act against the fundamental will of your simted self.]


    Lucas already knew that.


    Basically, immersive mode allowed him to "experience" the events of his simted life, but he couldn''t go against his simted self''s core desires.


    For instance, in the previous simtion, he could do whatever he wanted with Shenhe in their "games," but he couldn''t order her to kill anyone because his simted self would never want that.


    Simrly, here, since his simted self didn''t want to leave the cer, even in immersive mode, Lucas could only move around inside the cer.


    Ultimately, the simtor merely replicated another person''s life. At key moments, he could make choices, but he couldn''t change their entire life to suit his own preferences.


    The only concern Lucas had now was that if this continued, the simtor would be stuck in hibernation mode indefinitely.


    Ironically, in previous simtions, Lucas had worried about whether he''d live long enough. Now, he worried about whether he''d live too long.


    "Grrr..."


    Suddenly, Lucas''s stomach growled.


    "It''s lunchtime already, huh?" Lucas patted his stomach and muttered to himself, "Well, since I''m near Chihu Rock, I might as well go to Wanmin Restaurant and try Xiangling''s cooking."


    ...


    While Lucas headed to Wanmin Restaurant for lunch,


    Ganyu''s paper crane had already crossed the mountains of Liyue and arrived at Cloud Retainer''s domain deep within Mt. Aozang.


    Sitting at a stone table outside the cave, a silver-haired woman in a loose white robe quietly enjoyed some snacks.


    The woman appeared to be around twenty-six or twenty-seven, with a plump figure that her loose robe couldn''tpletely hide. She wore no makeup, except for the red eyeshadow around her eyes, but even without it, her natural beauty was striking.


    This was Cloud Retainer in her human form. While most Adepti preferred their beast forms, even they had to admit that being in human form made things like eating snacks much easier.


    "The pastries sent by the Yuheng Starst time were quite delicious," Cloud Retainer mused. "It''s clear she put thought into them... Unlike Ganyu, who has spent so long in Liyue but still doesn''t understand human customs as well as I do."


    Indeed, as a member of the Liyue Qixing, Keqing always made sure to send gifts to the Adepti during festivals as a sign of respect.


    Ganyu, however, often returned to visit Cloud Retainer empty-handed.


    Not that Cloud Retainer minded, of course. After all, Keqing was a guest, while Ganyu was her beloved adopted daughter.


    Just then, a delicate paper crane, wrapped in celestial energy, gently descended from the sky andnded before Cloud Retainer.


    "A letter from Ganyu? So soon?" Cloud Retainer was surprised. "Oh dear, have I been pushing her too hard? The poor girl probably doesn''t want to go on blind dates... Fine, fine, if she really doesn''t want to, I won''t force her. Hm? What''s this?"


    A "picture" suddenly slipped from the paper crane,nding neatly in front of Cloud Retainer.


    "This is... a photo?"


    Although Cloud Retainer had lived in seclusion in the deep mountains for many years, she was well-versed in new gadgets due to her hobby of crafting various mechanical devices.


    However, upon seeing the content of the photo, her expression froze.


    The photo showed two people. One was her adopted daughter, Ganyu, and the other was a young man with a delicate face, appearing to be in his twenties, with ck hair. The man had one hand resting on Ganyu''s shoulder, while Ganyu leaned her head against his chest, looking quite intimate.


    "Who is this man, and why is he so close to Ganyu?" Cloud Retainer''s heart tightened as she quickly unfolded the letter that had been tucked inside the paper crane.


    ---


    Dear Cloud Retainer,


    I received your letter. Although I have not met my junior, Shenhe, often, since we share the same master, I will make sure to take good care of her.


    Regarding the matter of a partner, please do not worry. I have already found someone to be with. His name is Lucas, and he works under the Liyue Qixing. He is honest, loyal, and capable¡ªsomeone I can trust with my future.


    Please, do not spread the word about this matter.


    Sincerely, Ganyu


    ---


    Cloud Retainer read the brief letter several times before a smile of relief slowly appeared on her face. "Ganyu has finally grown up. It''s a pity Shenhe just descended from the mountain¡ªotherwise, I could have shared this joy with her."


    Of course, what Cloud Retainer didn''t know was that if Shenhe saw this photo, she would be utterly shocked, as the man in the picture¡ªher "soon-to-be brother-inw"¡ªwas the same despicable figure from her nightmares.


    "Well, since Shenhe has descended, she''ll likely meet Ganyu, and perhaps even this man," Cloud Retainer mused. "I''ll have her test this man''s character and see if he truly is as dependable as Ganyu ims."


    At that moment, two beams of light shed through the sky, and a crane and a deer descended in front of Cloud Retainer.


    These were none other than Mountain Shaper and Moon Carver, fellow "Adepts with Three Eyes and Five Manifestations."


    "Mountain Shaper, Moon Carver," Cloud Retainer looked slightly surprised. "What brings the two of you here?"


    "It was your own letter saying that with Shenhe gone, the valley feels even more lonely," Mountain Shaper said calmly. "We worried you might be lonely, so we came to visit."


    "No need to worry," Cloud Retainer said, her face lighting up with a smug smile. "Before long, I won''t be lonely anymore."


    "Oh?" Moon Carver asked with curiosity. "Are you, like Madam Ping, nning to transform into human form and live among mortals?"


    "No, no," Cloud Retainer shook her head. "I''m about to be a grandmother."


    "Isn''t that the same thing?" Mountain Shaper nodded thoughtfully. "I''ve heard that in Liyue, Madam Ping''s mortal name is ''Granny Ping.''"


    "That''s not what I meant," Cloud Retainer chuckled. "What I mean is, I''m about to be an actual grandmother."


    "I see," Moon Carver said with a knowing look. "It makes sense. Shenhe is certainly of an age where she could marry and have children."


    "What does Shenhe have to do with this?" Cloud Retainer picked up the photo Ganyu had sent and smiled. "I was talking about Ganyu!"


    ------


    Author''s Note: Powahhhhhh stones

 Chapter 23: Villain Simulator, Ch 23

    <h4>Chapter 23: Viin Simtor, Ch 23</h4>


    At this time, far away in Liyue, Ganyu remainedpletely unaware that the fake news of her "marriage to Lucas" was about to be a major headline in the Adeptus circles.


    ---


    Meanwhile, Lucas, whose stomach was growling with hunger, had arrived at Chihu Rock.


    Though Wanmin Restaurant wasn''t as high-end as Xinyue Kiosk or Liuli Pavilion, it was very popr among themon folk. It didn''t take Lucas long to find the restaurant.


    "Wee!"


    As soon as he stepped inside, a young girl with blue hair and dressed in red came forward, carrying a tray and greeting him with a bright smile. "Is it just you today?"


    The girl appeared to be around sixteen or seventeen, not extraordinarily beautiful, but she had a cute and lively charm. Her curved eyebrows added to her adorable appearance.


    Without needing to think much, Lucas immediately recognized this girl as Xiangling, the head chef of Wanmin Restaurant.


    What a cute little girl, indeed.


    [Wouldn''t it be fun to mess with such a cute girl in the simtor, just like you did with Shenhe and Rosalyn?]


    The system chimed in with a suggestion.


    Hey, hey! Don''t suddenly set up a g like that!


    "Yes, it''s just me," Lucas responded, ignoring the system''s voice. Under Xiangling''s guidance, he found a quiet seat and sat down.


    After cing his order, Lucas began to observe the restaurant while waiting.


    As he watched Xiangling move cheerfully among the customers, Lucas couldn''t help but recall the system''s earlier words.


    If Xiangling were to appear in the Viin Simtor, would something special happen between them, just like with Shenhe and Rosalyn?


    Shaking his head to clear the thought, Lucas lightly pped his cheeks and muttered to himself, "Stop thinking about nonsense. She''s just a kid!"


    [So, it''s okay to have those thoughts as long as she''s not a kid?]


    The system teased.


    "Of course not!" Lucas frowned. "Why is it that other people''s systems are obedient, while you''re always messing with my mind?"


    [Well, go y with other systems then! I''m just here to remind you that the simtor is about to reach an important milestone, so you might want to check it out.]


    Is the story finally progressing?


    Without hesitation, Lucas opened the simtor. Typically, when the simtor was active, time around him would freeze, so it didn''t matter where he used it.


    ---


    [Age 488: You remain in hibernation.]


    [Age 489: A strange sound awakens you from hibernation. You open your eyes and are surprised to see a sh of light. The sealed exit you''ve been trapped behind for centuries has crumbled. A group of soldiers, all dressed in identical uniforms, enters the cer, led by a peculiar man.]


    [The man immediately notices you, but oddly, he doesn''t seem surprised. Instead, he smiles and says, "If I''m not mistaken, you must be the Immortal King who disappeared 450 years ago, correct?"]


    [You are stunned to learn that you''ve been sealed away for 450 years.]


    [Faced with this stranger, you are unsure how to respond. You also don''t fully understand what he means by "Immortal King."]


    [Sensing your confusion, the man patiently exins, "450 years ago, a mysterious figure appeared in Mondstadt who could revive the dead. Facing judgment, he summoned an army of undead andpletely destroyed Mondstadt before vanishing... The Fatui havee here to find this person. Rest assured, we mean no harm. We only hope to invite this individual to join us in a grand endeavor."]


    [You realize that the person he''s talking about is you. But what will you choose to do...?]


    [1. Admit your identity.]


    [2. Deny your identity.]


    At this point, would it even matter to deny it?


    Besides, after quietly growing stronger for over four centuries, Lucas figured that even if he couldn''t rival the Seven Archons, he should at least have the power of a demigod. Plus, with his near-immortality, there wasn''t much to fear.


    "Admit it."


    [You admit your identity, and the man''s eyes light up. He introduces himself as Pierro, the first-ranked Harbinger of the Fatui, also known as the Jester. He invites you to join the Fatui and promises that if you do, the Tsaritsa will grant you any wish you desire.]


    [Your choices are...]


    [1. ept the invitation and make a wish.]


    [2. Refuse the invitation and eliminate everyone who knows your identity.]


    ---


    The Fatui?


    Lucas was quite familiar with them.


    They were the designated viins and scapegoats in Genshin Impact. Although it seemed that the organization wasn''t as simple as it appeared, they were undoubtedly portrayed as viins for the time being.


    The Viin Simtor seemed to align well with the Fatui''s nature.


    Given the circumstances, it seemed logical to ept the offer. Rejecting it would lead to a confrontation, but joining the Fatui could provide opportunities, especially since Lucas had his own goals.


    "Join."


    ---


    [You agree to join the Fatui, but you tell Pierro that your identity must remain a secret. You also ask for their help in finding any clues about Rosalyn, whether she is alive or dead.]


    [Though you suspect Rosalyn is likely deceased, you still cling to a small hope. After all, with your necromantic skills, even her grave might hold the key to reviving her.]


    [Pierro immediately agrees to your request. However, he smiles and asks for a demonstration of your abilities, wondering if you can truly revive the dead.]


    [You scoff at Pierro''s request, stating that you can''t demonstrate your skills without a corpse.]


    ["That''s easily solved!" Pierro says without hesitation. He orders all of the nearby Fatui soldiers tomit suicide. Before you can react, the soldiers unsheathe their weapons and kill themselves on the spot. Only one young Fatui soldier hesitates, trembling in fear.]


    [Pierro, disappointed by the hesitation, personally ends the young soldier''s life. Hements wryly, "I''ve heard that the army of undead you once created followed orders without question. Unfortunately, I haven''t been able to achieve that level of obedience. No matter how I train them, there are always moments of disobedience."]


    [You feel no particr emotion at Pierro''s actions. By killing the soldiers, he ensures that no one else will learn of your identity while also providing you with the corpses you need. It was the correct move.]


    [Your long life and solitary existence have stripped you of your humanity. To you, nothing in the world matters anymore¡ªexcept for Rosalyn.]


    [Despite the centuries-long seal, your skills remain sharp. You quickly revive the soldiers as undead and have them follow yourmands.]


    [Pierro, impressed by your abilities, invites you to travel to Snezhnaya with him. Thus, the two of you, each with your own motives, set off together.]


    [Upon leaving the cer, the sight before you takes you by surprise. What was once the flourishing city of Mondstadt has been reduced to ruins. A massive blue pir stands before the ruins of the Cathedral of Favonius, splitting the statue of Barbatos in two.]


    [From Pierro, you learn about the events that transpired over the past 450 years.]


    [After you created the army of undead, they quickly overwhelmed Mondstadt. Thest surviving Knight of Favonius, Grand Master Arundolyn, led a small group of survivors out of the city, saving only a few hundred citizens.]


    [However, with no one left tomand them, your undead army continued to carry out yourst order: to kill every living thing in sight.]


    [As in the fall of Khaenri''ah, a "Judgment" descended from the sky, obliterating the city and your undead army along with it. The resulting miasma from the countless corpses made the area uninhabitable for hundreds of miles. Only recently has the toxic air begun to clear.]


    [After escaping Mondstadt, Arundolyn and the remaining citizens migrated to Liyue. With Liyue''s support, they founded "New Mondstadt." While they survived, their new settlement became the weakest of the Seven Nations.]


    [Upon hearing this, Pierro once again expresses his admiration for you. After all, you are the one who singlehandedly "destroyed" a nation. However, you feel no joy from his praise.]


    [As for the remnants of your undead army, they didn''t all perish in the "Divine Punishment." Some managed to escape Mondstadt and have since spread across Teyvat.]


    [It was by studying one of these undead that Pierro discovered their potential. After extensive research, he led an expedition to Mondstadt to uncover the source of the undead and unexpectedly found you¡ªtheir creator.]


    [After a long journey, you and Pierro finally arrive in Snezhnaya, and perpetually covered in snow and ice. The climate is vastly different from Mondstadt, but your body, now immune to heat and cold, feels nothing.]


    [Introduced by Pierro, you meet the Tsaritsa, the Cryo Archon and one of the Seven, who surprisingly appears to be a young girl of about ten years old.]


    [Despite her youthful appearance, she radiates an overwhelming aura, and even with your considerable power, you cannot afford to be disrespectful.]


    [You are formally appointed as the Third Harbinger of the Fatui. Ironically, your code name is "The Doctor," the very nickname you were given when you studied at the Sumeru Academia.]


    [The other two senior Harbingers are Pierro, the First Harbinger, and the General, who holds the Second position. Pierro offers to let you take his position as the First Harbinger, but you decline, having no interest in such matters.]


    ---


    What!?


    Lucas was genuinely shocked.


    The Doctor was "himself"?


    While the character of the Third Harbinger, "The Doctor," hadn''t yet appeared in the game at this point, he had already been shown in the official manga, where he had the ssic appearance of a viin.


    Who would''ve thought that after all this time, he would end up bing "The Doctor."


    However, this did make sense in a way. Whether it was his research into the human body or being exiled as a heretic, his life experiences mirrored those of "The Doctor" in the game.


    Of course, since the simtor wasn''t identical to the original story, it was likely that the "Doctor" he became in the simtor wasn''t directly connected to the canon version.


    ---


    [Age 490: Unlike Mondstadt or Sumeru, your research in Snezhnaya progresses smoothly. Here, you can conduct experiments openly, and there''s never a shortage of fresh bodies.]


    [You have no idea where the bodiese from, nor do you care. To you, they are nothing more than tools for experimentation, no different from beakers or scalpels.]


    ---


    [Age 494: The undead army you created for Snezhnaya is deployed for the first time and proves to be a great sess.]


    ---


    [Age 497: The Fourth Harbinger, code-named "The Pigeon," joins the Fatui. Pierro holds a wee banquet, but you do not attend.]


    ---


    [Age 500: You''vepletely forgotten that you are now 500 years old. The Tsaritsa sends you a gift¡ªa Delusion. You understand that its significance is more symbolic than practical, as neither a Vision nor a Delusion can grant you the kind of power you already possess.]


    ---


    [Age 506: The Fifth Harbinger, code-named "The Rooster," joins. You know little about him, only that his name is Pulcine.]


    ---


    [Age 510: Thanks to the presence of your undead army, Snezhnaya''s military power increases dramatically. You be regarded as a "hero" by many in the nation.]


    [This feels oddly familiar, as you were once hailed as a hero in Mondstadt.]


    [Several high-status women express interest in marrying you, but you politely decline all of them.]


    [It''s not that your extended lifespan has caused you to lose interest in such matters. In fact, your vitality far exceeds that of an average young man.]


    [The Tsaritsa has rewarded you with many attendants for your personal pleasure, and your fame and allure have made many women willingly "serve" you. You don''t resist this, seeing it as a necessary outlet for your energy.]


    [However, despite all this, you''ve never developed feelings for any of these women. Your heart remains forever devoted to Rosalyn.]


    ---


    [Age 515: Pierro brings you an unusual "corpse" and asks if you can revive it. The body appears to be that of a handsome young man, dressed in the style of Inazuma.]


    [As usual, you agree to Pierro''s request, but upon closer inspection, you''re shocked to discover that the "corpse" isn''t human¡ªit''s a highly intricate puppet.]


    [This amazes you. If your power lies in "reviving life," then whoever created this puppet undoubtedly holds the power to "create life."]


    [Despite the puppet''splex design, your extraordinary medical skills allow you to sessfully "revive" it.]


    [Technically, the puppet has no biological gender, as itcks the reproductive functions of humans. However, since the puppet doesn''t possess any of the anatomical features of a male, you decide to refer to it as female.]


    [After being revived, she opens her eyes slowly. Her gaze is empty, showing no surprise at being brought back to life.]


    [However, she doesn''t speak ormunicate. You suspect that she may have suffered a traumatic experience before "dying," resulting in temporary psychological shutdown. But you don''t mind. You have all the time in the world¡ªtime is something you have in abundance.]


    ---


    [Age 516: Over the next year, observing this puppet girl bes your "hobby." You notice that she has begun reacting to external stimuli and asionally watches you as you conduct experiments. She also shows human-like responses, such as "embarrassment," especially when you clean her internal oil tubes with lubricant.]


    ---


    [Age 517: Pierro frequently inquires about the puppet''s progress, but you only tell him to wait. Although Pierro holds considerable authority as the First Harbinger, he respects you and does not press further.]


    ---


    [Age 518: You continue your experiments with the puppet, setting up unguarded environments to see if she will attempt to escape. Your observations show that she does consider fleeing but ultimately hesitates at the door and decides against it.]


    [As a reward for her "obedience," you switch to a new mint-scented cleaning lubricant.]


    ---


    [Age 519: During an ordinary afternoon tea, the puppet speaks for the first time, asking if she can have one of your pastries. You perform a basic obedience test, offering her a treat in exchange for answering a question. The first question you ask is her name.]


    ["Scaramouche," she answers.]


    ---


    Scaramouche? Raiden''s discarded puppet, the Sixth Harbinger?


    Lucas was quite familiar with this name, as it belonged to Scaramouche, one of the Fatui Harbingers.


    Lucas vaguely remembered Scaramouche''s backstory¡ªan artificial human abandoned by the Electro Archon, Raiden Shogun, whoter had his powers sealed. Wandering Inazuma with only fragments of his consciousness, he eventually became a Harbinger for the Fatui.

 Chapter 24: Villain Simulator, Ch 24

    <h4>Chapter 24: Viin Simtor, Ch 24</h4>


    In this simtion, Lucas never expected that not only would Scaramouche be a girl, but they would also form a connection.


    [The experiment went smoothly, and Scaramouche (Kunikuzushi) seemed to excel at following orders. You spected that her original purpose was likely to obey certainmands, but her original "master" had abandoned her. Since you had spent the most time with her, you naturally took on the role of her "master."]


    [However, your knowledge was limited. Her memory system seemed to be sealed by someone, and apart from her name, "Kunikuzushi," she had lost most of her memories.]


    [Additionally, she had a great fondness for sweets.]


    [Age 520: Pierro had a conversation with Scaramouche, formally inviting her to join the Fatui. However, the official discussionsted less than five minutes.]


    [After the conversation, Pierro informed you that Scaramouche had agreed to join, but with one condition. You wondered whether it was to regain her lost memories or a permanent supply of free sweets.]


    ["No, it''s you, my friend," Pierro said, patting your shoulder with a smile. "Her condition is that she must stay by your side." Your choices are:]


    [1. Agree]


    [2. Refuse]


    Lucas hesitated slightly. From an evil perspective, keeping Scaramouche by his side would allow him to mold her into the most loyal and powerful human weapon.


    "I agree."


    [You didn''t reject the request, so Scaramouche stayed by your side. Perhaps because you revived her, she became quite attached to you and was very cooperative in your modifications.]


    [Pierro told you that Scaramouche possessed great potential, but just like her memories, her abilities were sealed. Your task was to unlock her potential and turn her into a valuable asset for Snezhnaya.]


    [That same year, Scaramouche officially became the Sixth Harbinger, known as "The Badeer."]


    [Age 521: Although Scaramouche looked like a young girl, her mental state was quite immature, much like a child. As a result, in addition to training her, you found yourself acting as her mentor andpanion.]


    [Technically, you didn''t need to do these things, but you didn''t refuse. Unconsciously, you seemed to have be her "father."]


    [Cursed by the gods, you knew you would never have children of your own, and you had long abandoned the thought of experiencing familial love. However, Scaramouche''s presence filled this void. Neither of you was skilled at expressing emotions, but you had unknowingly formed a bond simr to that of "father and daughter."]


    Seeing this, Lucas couldn''t help but feel a deeper sense of disbelief.


    It seemed that in this simtion, he had developed quite a tight connection with the Fatui.


    He was "The Doctor," his past wife was "La Signora," and now, he had an adopted daughter, "The Badeer."


    Maybe he should go ahead and forge a brotherhood with "Childe" Tartaglia¡ªthen he might be able to take over the entire Fatui someday!


    [Age 522: Under your training and modifications, Scaramouche''s power grew rapidly. During this time, she also sessfullypleted many missions as a Fatui Harbinger.]


    [You didn''t ask her about the missions; you simply checked her body for damage. As a puppet, she didn''t feel pain, so even serious injuries could be quickly repaired by you.]


    [She excitedly recounted her missions¡ªassassinations, sabotage, kidnappings. For Scaramouche, whocked human morals, these tasks didn''t cause her any distress. You began to understand why Pierro wanted her to join the Harbingers¡ªFatui needed a sharp, emotionless de, and a de didn''t need feelings or morals.]


    [Age 523: Scaramouche''s behavior grew increasingly arrogant. She was disrespectful, harsh, and dismissive toward nearly everyone, except for the Tsaritsa and you. Even Pierro, the First Harbinger, couldn''tpletelymand her.]


    [Her attitude toward others was poor, but around you, she showed a different side. It seemed that everything she did for the Fatui was her way of proving only one thing¡ªShe is your biggest "Masterpiece".]


    ---


    [Age 526: The Fatui weed the Seventh Harbinger. Unlike the others, this man, named Pantalone, appeared to be an ordinary human. However, after learning about his background, you understood Pierro''s decision.]


    [Pantalone was a financial genius. In a routine meeting, he proposed several strategies to enhance Snezhnaya''s economy, and most were approved.]


    [There was an exception, though¡ªPantalone requested that you create "special" female undead to satisfy the illicit desires of high-ranking officials and wealthy merchants, which would generate considerable profits. Although it was theoretically possible, you declined, as you had one principle¡ªnever desecrate the dead.]


    [Age 529: Recently, the Tsaritsa gifted you another woman named "Reba." Like most of these women, Reba had likely volunteered. Some worshipped you as the "Hero of Snezhnaya," while others had ulterior motives, hoping to bear your child and produce a superior offspring.]


    [Of course, this was impossible, as you were incapable of fathering children. Usually, you kept these women for a brief time before parting ways. It wasn''t about lust or loneliness, but rather a practical need to release the pressure built up in your body.]


    [However, this time was different. Maybe it was Reba''s resemnce to Rosalyn, or perhaps it was her exceptional skills, but you found yourself spending more time with her. After each workday, she would relieve your fatigue using special techniques.]


    [You knew that the Tsaritsa was using every method to control you, including sending beautiful women. Reba was likely one of these tools. Despite the immense military contributions you had made to Snezhnaya, you remained a ticking time bomb.]


    [After all, you had single-handedly destroyed Mondstadt. Though Snezhnaya was much stronger, no one could guarantee that history wouldn''t repeat itself.]


    [But you didn''t mind. You and Reba both yed your parts¡ªshe didn''t care what thoughts crossed your mind during your intimate moments, and you didn''t care what schemes she harbored.]


    [Everything seemed to be going smoothly, except for one thing¡ªScaramouche didn''t like Reba. In fact, Scaramouche seemed to dislike every woman who appeared in your life. It was almost as if she were a child in a single-parent family, jealous of her father''s rtionships¡ªat least, that''s what you thought.]


    [Age 530: Reba had been with you for nearly a year, longer than any other woman. You were fully aware of her small actions, like secretly reading your notes and research, then reporting them to the Tsaritsa.]


    [You chose to ignore it. You had no rebellious intentions, so if Reba''s reports earned you more trust from the Tsaritsa, that was fine with you.]


    [Age 531: Reba was dead. When you returned home, you found her lifeless body, cold and unmoving. Scaramouche sat next to her, calmly wiping blood from the murder weapon, smiling as if she were seeking your approval. She proudly told you she had discovered Reba''s deceit and had acted without hesitation to eliminate her.]


    [Scaramouche''s actions seemed partly driven by personal motives. You didn''t particrly care about Reba''s death; she was merely one of many women who had passed through your life, and she held no special ce in your heart. Scaramouche, on the other hand, had been with you far longer and mattered far more.]


    [However, you were furious because this murder was unnecessary. For the first time since leaving the cer, you had a serious argument with Scaramouche.]


    [After the argument, Scaramouche stormed off to her room in a fit of anger. Your next choice is:]


    [1. Ignore her]


    [2. Comfort her]


    Although Scaramouche and his simtor counterpart shared no blood rtion, their long-termpanionship had forged an unusual bond.


    "Alright, alright," Lucas sighed. "I''ll gofort her."


    [After dealing with Reba''s body, you head to Scaramouche''s room...]


    [Forced switch to Immersive Mode in progress.]


    "Huh?"


    Before Lucas could react, his consciousness was transferred into the simtion.


    Maybe the system thought his real self would be better suited as the forter"?


    With a sense of resignation, Lucas adjusted to his simted body, which he hadn''t inhabited for nearly five centuries.


    Interestingly, while he was once frail despite his unmatched medical skills, his body now felt brimming with overwhelming power.


    It seemed the effects of his [Old But Vigorous] trait, umted over five hundred years, had reached an extraordinary level.


    He caught his reflection in a nearby window. His appearance hadn''t aged, but his hair had turned silver, and a mask covered half his face¡ªconcealing the burn marks Rosalyn had left.


    *Knock, knock, knock.*


    Lucas knocked on the door, and after a brief silence, he heard a low voice from inside: "The door''s not locked."


    Taking a deep breath, Lucas opened the door and stepped inside Scaramouche''s room. Contrary to her violent personality, the room was styled like that of a typical young girl.


    Several not-so-cute dolls were scattered across her bed¡ªdolls you had bought for her as part of some experimental tests. Surprisingly, she had kept them, treating them like treasures.


    Scaramouche sat on the bed, hugging a doll resembling a Ruin Guard, her back turned to you.


    Yes, a Ruin Guard doll¡ªpoprly known as "One-Eyed Little Treasure"¡ªa toy quite popr among the children of Snezhnaya. Only in this fiercend would such dangerous mechanical monsters be turned into children''s ythings.


    "Are you still mad?" Lucas asked softly after clearing his throat.


    "I''m not mad." Scaramouche turned her face slightly, revealing her sharp, boyish features. If she had been a boy, she would undoubtedly be the type adored by older schoolgirls.


    At the moment, though, she resembled a sulky kitten, ring at Lucas.


    Sitting beside her, Lucas gently patted her back and said, "You know, I was aware of everything Reba did from the start."


    "What?" Scaramouche''s eyes widened in surprise. "Then why did you pretend not to know?"


    "Because if having her around made the Tsaritsa trust me more, then it was a small price to pay," Lucas said calmly. "I wasn''t angry because you killed her¡ªI was angry because your actions were rash and thoughtless. As my ''creation,'' what you did today was... ''uneptable.''"


    Uneptable!


    Those words cut deep into Scaramouche''s heart, reminding her of why she had been abandoned by her original creator¡ªbecause she was deemed "uneptable."


    Clinging tightly to Lucas, her voice trembled as she pleaded, "I''m sorry! I won''t make this mistake again! Please don''t abandon me like a defective product... Please..."


    It was hard to believe that the usually arrogant and overbearing "Badeer" could now appear so vulnerable and pitiful.


    "Don''t worry, Scaramouche," Lucas said softly, stroking her silken hair. "I will never abandon you. Remember, you''re not like those women¡ªyou''re my ''family.'' Both of us have been cast aside by this cold, harsh world, and now... we only have each other left."


    "Doctor..."


    Scaramouche clung tightly to Lucas, even though she didn''t know his real name.


    It was strange; despite being a puppet, Scaramouche''s body was warm and emitted a faint scent, like a human.


    "Alright, get some rest," Lucas said softly. "I''ll take care of Reba''s situation. You shouldn''t do something like that again."


    "So..." Scaramouche asked tentatively, "Will there still be other women around you?"


    "There probably will be." Lucas didn''t n on lying to her and smiled helplessly. "This body, which deals with corpses all day, sometimes still needs the warmth of a woman."


    In this regard, Lucas was always honest.


    Moreover, for someone who had lived for centuries and was no longer truly "human," it seemed that only during moments of intimacy with a woman could he truly feel "alive."


    "My body is warm too," Scaramouche suddenly stammered, "and if it''s not warm enough, I could have an internal furnace installed. It can be set to any temperature you want!"


    "Silly girl..."


    Lucas hadn''t expected that this ruthless and bloodthirsty "Badeer" could be so na?ve about this topic, thinking that "warming the body" was meant literally. "What I meant is... I need a woman."


    "I can be a woman!" Scaramouche clung tightly to his clothes. "I don''t have a gender, but if it''s you, you can turn me into a woman, right? You can just install some organs... I''ll be even better than Reba, I promise! I''ll learn everything."


    Although Scaramouche''s words seemed incredible, what she said was technically feasible. For someone like Lucas, who had long mastered the secrets of the human body, organ transntation was a simple operation.


    After all, Scaramouche was a puppet, which came with even more "possibilities."


    It was only then that Lucas realized that Scaramouche actually understood everything. He asked instinctively, "What is it... that you want to learn?"


    "Just... the things Reba did with you..." Scaramouche''s voice was as quiet as a whisper. "I once secretly watched from the doorway. Those actions... I can do them too."


    As abat genius, Scaramouche could perfectly replicate any technique after seeing it once, no matter howplex. So, it wasn''t difficult for her to mimic Reba''s "tricks."


    "You... you actually spied on us?" Even Lucas, who was usually calm andposed, couldn''t help but blush. "No, absolutely not. Not with you."


    "Why not?" Scaramouche''s voice grew more agitated. "Why am I the only one who can''t? Am I... not as good as those women?"


    Being a puppet, Scaramouche didn''t adhere to human morals or ethics. So, she didn''t see anything wrong with what she was suggesting.


    "Because you''re special," Lucas said, pinching her cheek gently. "How about this? I promise not to bring any more women home. How does that sound?"


    "Really?" Scaramouche''s previously gloomy face brightened immediately. "Let''s make a pinky promise!"


    "Alright, alright." Lucas extended his pinky and hooked it with Scaramouche''s.


    Even without bringing women home, with Lucas''s status and wealth, there were still plenty of ways to "relieve stress."


    "Pinky swear, no changing your mind, or you''ll be thrown into the ciers. The ciers are cold, the snowfields are colder, and a liar''s tongue will freeze and rot!" Scaramouche recited a grim little nursery rhyme, one that seemed uniquely fitting for the coldnd of Snezhnaya.


    "Now, are you reassured?" Lucas said as he let go of her finger. "Good night."


    "Wait a minute..."


    Scaramouche tugged on Lucas''s sleeve, her cheeks tinged with pink. "Recently, I''ve felt that some of my parts aren''t functioning as smoothly. Could you... apply some lubricant?"


    Although this sentence might have sounded suggestive, it was actually quite innocent. Scaramouche''s body, much like the character "Arale" from *Dr. Slump*, could be disassembled and reassembled, and only Lucas knew how to do it.


    "You''re such a handful," Lucas said with a resigned smile. "Lie down, I''ll get my tools."


    ---


    Thirty minutester.


    [Exiting Immersive Mode]


    [Switching to Text Mode]


    As Lucas exited the immersive mode, his face still carried a slight flush.


    He nced at his fingers, as if they still held the lingering, unique sensation from the experience.


    After all, personally injecting lubricant into every pipe and crevice of such a lifelike puppet was a peculiar process.


    Especially when the puppet felt so real.


    ---


    [Age 532: After the Reba incident, you submitted a formal request to decline any simr "gifts" from the Tsaritsa.]


    [However, the Seventh Harbinger, Pantalone, hearing of this, sent you a mysterious ck membership card. With it, you could indulge freely at his exclusive club, "Red Night."]


    ------


    Author''s Note: What is this behavior guys we still havent got enough reviews


    Ok until the rating finally shows up I wont post any extra chap hmph ??

 Chapter 25: Villain Simulator, Ch 25

    <h4>Chapter 25: Viin Simtor, Ch 25</h4>


    [Red Night is not your ordinary ce of pleasure. You know the hidden secrets within it. Pantalone uses this establishment to gather leverage against many nobles and officials. You don''t mind giving him some "small leverage"; in fact, you need to expose more "weaknesses" to reduce the Tsaritsa''s suspicion of you.]


    [Age 533: Today, Pierro found you and mysteriously told you that he had fulfilled his promise. Before you could understand what he meant, he presented you with a special "gift."]


    [It was a woman sealed in a crystal coffin, her body constantly burning like mes, with her blood flowing like moltenva.]


    [You immediately recognized her as Rosalyne, the one you''ve longed for. Even after 500 years apart, you recognized her at first nce.]


    [Pierro exined that after the Mondstadt cmity 500 years ago, Rosalyne, freed from her seal, burned herself, bing the "Crimson Witch" and traveled the world hunting down remnants of the undead.]


    [Eventually, her mes consumed her life. On the brink of death, Pierro found her and brought her back, using the Tsaritsa''s pure ice powers to suppress the endless mes within her.]


    [However, even the Tsaritsa can only temporarily suppress the life-devouring mes within Rosalyne. As for whether she can be revived, only you hold the answer.]


    [Pierro left the choice to you. You could decide what to do with Rosalyne. Restoring her was not difficult for you, but you hesitated. Even if you revived her, how could you face her?]


    [Rosalyne admitted to once loving you, but you had hidden behind the identity of Rustan, leading to the destruction of Mondstadt. She turned her life into mes to burn away all "impurities" in the world, and you were the creator of those impurities.]


    [Moreover, even if you revived her, her memories would only cause her endless pain. Your choices are...]


    [1. Let her remain in her current state.]


    [2. Revive her.]


    [3. Revive her, but erase her past memories.]


    Perhaps due to theplexity of the situation, the system rarely presented Lucas with three choices.


    Letting her remain in this half-dead state would only prolong Rosalyne''s suffering. Reviving her but erasing the painful memories seemed like the best option to Lucas.


    [You took three days and nights to finally revive Rosalyne, but during the operation, you also erased her memories.]


    [Only you could perform this surgery, as her skin, muscles, and blood were unbearably hot. Your exceptional regenerative abilities allowed you to withstand the extreme burns.]


    [Even after the sessful surgery, the seed of me within Rosalyne didn''t disappear. If left unchecked, it would one day consume her body and mind. The only way to suppress it for the long term was with a Cryo Vision.]


    [But acquiring a Vision, especially a Cryo Vision, wasn''t easy. To ensure Rosalyne''s survival, you asked the Tsaritsa to bestow her a Delusion. She agreed, but the price was that Rosalyne had to be a Fatui Harbinger. You knew you couldn''t refuse.]


    [From that moment on, Rosalyne ceased to exist, reced by the Eighth Fatui Harbinger¡ªLa Signora.]


    [Perhaps due to the memory erasure or the toll of burning for 500 years, La Signora''s personality had drastically changed. She became cold, arrogant, and condescending,pletely different from the gentle and understanding Rosalyne you remembered.]


    [La Signora''s rtionships with the other Harbingers were strained, but her rtionship with you was particrly poor. She even once said to your face, "Don''t look at me with those eyes of yours¡ªthey disgust me."]


    [There was nothing you could do about it. Even after 500 years, whenever you looked at La Signora, your eyes couldn''t help but show affection, which she, being sensitive and irritable, misinterpreted.]


    [Yet you didn''t mind. Just being able to see her was enough. You knew there was no chance of rekindling your rtionship. First, you feared that her sealed memories might resurface. Second, Scaramouche would never allow you to be with another woman.]


    [Age 534: You thought this life would continue forever, until one night, after finishing a day''s work in yourboratory, you were visited by an unexpected guest.]


    [That guest was La Signora herself. You had no idea why she, who usually wanted nothing to do with you, would visit in the middle of the night...]


    [Entering forced immersive mode]


    "Damn it! Again?"


    When Lucas regained consciousness, he was already in hisboratory. In front of him stood a tall, cold-looking woman¡ªsomeone familiar, yet distant. Her face instantly reminded him of Rosalyne.


    "Have you seen enough?" Rosalyne¡ªno, La Signora¡ªred at Lucas coldly. Her disdain was obvious. "I knew it. Your gaze disgusts me."


    "I apologize," Lucas chuckled awkwardly. "What brings you here sote, La Signora?"


    Although the Fatui Harbingers were ranked, there was no clear hierarchy among them. Thus, even though La Signora was the Eighth, she showed no respect toward Lucas, the Third Harbinger.


    "I know that besides ying with those disgusting corpses..." La Signora sat down casually, "you''re also a half-decent doctor, right?"


    "Half-decent?"


    That was like telling Morax, "You''re kind of rich."


    On the continent of Teyvat, no one could rival Lucas in terms of medical expertise and experience.


    "Sort of..." Lucas nodded. "So, are you here for a consultation?"


    "What else?" La Signora raised an eyebrow, sneering. "Did you think I was here for ate-night rendezvous? Someone like you is only fit to sleep with corpses."


    Despite her harsh words, Lucas felt a wave ofplex emotions, seeing how Rosalyne, who once was sweet and loving, had turned into such a sharp-tongued person.


    But it was only La Signora who could speak to him like this. Even Pierro, the First Harbinger, showed him respect, and Scaramouche was obedient.


    "Well, we''re colleagues. If you have any hidden ailments, just tell me. I''ll do my best to help," Lucas replied, unfazed by her attitude.


    Perhaps it was guilt, or perhaps it was love.


    "Hmph, let''s get this straight: you can''t tell anyone about this," La Signora''s pale face blushed slightly. "Or I''ll snap your neck!"


    "Don''t worry," Lucas nodded. "Patient confidentiality is a doctor''s principle."


    "Doctor''s principle?" La Signora nced at the half-dissected corpse on theb table, intestines still exposed, and said coldly, "Is defiling corpses also a doctor''s principle?"


    Even without her memories, La Signora''s instinctive hatred for the undead remained.


    "It''s not defilement, it''s a necessary step on the path to medical discovery," Lucas replied calmly. "So, what''s bothering you?"


    La Signora hesitated for a moment before lifting her clothing, revealing a patch of her icy, white skin marked by burn-like scars.


    "For a while now, I''ve been experiencing strange burning sensations," La Signora said with a slight frown. "It bes unbearable at night, keeping me from sleeping."


    "It''s hard to diagnose just by description. This is quite unusual," Lucas pondered. "Would you mind if I conducted a thorough examination?"


    "How thorough?" La Signora bit her lip.


    "As thorough as needed," Lucas said, putting on gloves. "Don''t worry. I''ve seen more bodies than you''ve killed. To me, your body is just... meat."


    "You¡ª!" La Signora was taken aback by the remark but didn''t know how to respond.


    "Just hurry up," Lucas said, pping his hands. "If I''mte, Scaramouche will start nagging."


    "I... I understand."


    For La Signora, nothing was more humiliating than exposing herself to the Doctor. Sometimes, even she didn''t understand why she hated him so much, why she felt the urge to kill him.


    But now, she was the one on the operating table, subject to his whims.


    She chose Lucas for two reasons: first, because his medical skills were unparalleled, and second, because her body, chilled by the mes within her, was too cold for most people to touch.


    The examination was entirely professional. Lucas showed no interest in taking advantage of her, which surprised La Signora. After all, she had heard rumors of the Doctor''s promiscuity and his frequent visits to the exclusive club "Red Night."


    Could it be that she was less attractive than those other women?


    Impossible!


    La Signora had full confidence in her looks and figure. In her mind, only the Tsaritsa could rival her beauty.


    "The examination isplete," Lucas said, removing his gloves.


    "The cause of your condition is not a disease but the umtion of the mes within you. Though they are sealed, they aren''tpletely suppressed. Over time, the mes build up and cause you pain, especially when you''re resting."


    "I see..." La Signora nodded. "So, how can I release this buildup?"


    "Since the mes are rooted in your consciousness, physical treatments won''t work. You need to find a way to release the built-up energy."


    "What method?" La Signora asked urgently.


    "There are ways to relieve stress. For example, in my case..." Lucas cleared his throat, "well, never mind. My method probably wouldn''t suit you."


    "Stop beating around the bush!" La Signora grabbed his wrist. "What method? Tell me! I can''t take this burning any longer!"


    "Well..." Lucas leaned in and whispered a few words in her ear. La Signora''s face immediately turned crimson.


    "What?!" La Signora stammered. "I... I can''t possibly do that! That''s utterly absurd!"


    "I did warn you," Lucas shrugged. "My method isn''t for everyone."


    "No, even if I wanted to try it, it''s impossible..." La Signora sighed. "My body is too cold for any man to touch..."


    "Wait..." La Signora suddenly realized something. She had been holding Lucas''s wrist this whole time, and his skin only had a faint red mark that quickly disappeared.


    Although Lucas never unted his strength, his body had long surpassed human limits. It had the resilience of a god. Even La Signora''s freezing touch couldn''t harm him.


    "Hold on..." La Signora narrowed her eyes. "You can withstand my body."


    "So... what does that mean?" Lucas muttered nervously. "You... you don''t mean..."


    "I don''t have a choice," La Signora said, her voice trembling with embarrassment. "If I had any other option, I wouldn''t choose you. But if this burning continues, I''ll go insane. I don''t know if you have any principles, but..."


    "But what? Hurry up and get over here."


    La Signora was stunned. When she looked up, she saw Lucas, already shirtless, sitting on the bed and patting the mattress. "I''m sorry, but I have no principles. How could I say no to such a convenient opportunity?"


    "You... you!"


    La Signora was furious at his shamelessness. Clenching her fists, she growled, "I''ve changed my mind! There''s no way I''m letting a scoundrel like you have his way!"


    "It''s your choice," Lucas said with a slight smile. "But if you need help, feel free toe back anytime."


    "No need for your concern!" La Signora huffed as she stormed toward the door. "This is ridiculous! It''s infuriating!"


    With that, the door mmed shut with a loud "bang."


    Lucas, however, remained calm, smiling slightly as he leisurely poured himself a ss of strong liquor and took a sip. He wasn''t fond of drinking, as one of the pleasures of alcohol was the sensation of intoxication, which he couldn''t experience. Due to his unique constitution, alcohol would break down in his body almost instantly, making it impossible for him to get drunk. But the burning sensation of strong liquor down his throat was enough to keep him alert.


    "Ten, nine, eight..." Lucas counted softly while looking at the closed door.


    Just as he reached "one," the door opened again.


    La Signora, who had just stormed out, reentered the room. She leaned against the door, her face slightly flushed, her expression conflicted. "I... Wait! Why are you still sitting there?"


    Indeed, Lucas hadn''t moved at all. He was still sitting elegantly on the bed, sipping his drink, as if he had known she would return.


    "Because I knew you''de back," Lucas said with a knowing smile.


    "You... I..." La Signora, caught off guard by his spot-on prediction, was at a loss for words, losing her usualmanding demeanor.


    "There''s no need to say more," Lucas said calmly. "I understand your pain¡ªwhether it''s the immense pressure with no outlet or the increasing inability to feel truly alive. You don''t have to feel any guilt. This is merely a ''treatment.'' After it''s done, you can go right back to hating me. Just... think of me as a medical tool."


    "A medical tool, huh..." La Signora raised an eyebrow, then let out a cold chuckle. "Fine. It''s not like I have any other options. But if your ''treatment'' doesn''t work... I won''t let you off easily."


    "Don''t worry, I''m a doctor with principles," Lucas said, cing his drink down. "Though I don''t exactly have a medical license."


    ...


    Two hourster.


    Both La Signora and Lucas were far beyond the physical limits of ordinary humans. The "battle" between these two "monsters" couldn''t be measured by human standards.


    "Want to keep going?" Lucas asked suddenly.


    "No more," La Signora replied, eyes wide as if still processing what had just happened. She muttered, "You''re a beast."


    "Beast" was usually an insult, much like "brute" or "animal." But in this context, it was undoubtedly apliment to Lucas''s performance.


    La Signora had never imagined that the seemingly lethargic "Doctor," always d in hisb coat, possessed such a strong physique.


    Of course, Lucas was also still savoring the aftermath. La Signora''s body, much like her personality, could be described as "cold on the outside, fiery on the inside."


    Her exterior was as cold as ice, but inside, she burned like moltenva.


    It seemed that only someone with a body as monstrous as Lucas''s could withstand her extremes.


    "So..." Lucas stood up, draping a coat over La Signora''s shoulders. "Did your symptoms lessen?"


    "I..." La Signora finally realized that the burning sensation, which had tormented her for so long, hadpletely disappeared without her noticing.


    She nced at her abdomen, where the burn-like scars had vanished without a trace.


    "Looks like the treatment was effective," Lucas said proudly. "Remember toe back for ''follow-up treatments'' weekly."


    ------


    Author''s Note: Follow-up treatments are needed fr ??


    Also thanks for the reviews!! I''ll release one more Chapter in next 1-2 hrs so make sure to support more!!! :)

 Chapter 26: Villain Simulator, Ch 26

    <h4>Chapter 26: Viin Simtor, Ch 26</h4>


    "What?" La Signora was slightly startled. "What do you mean by weekly follow-ups? Isn''t my condition already cured?"


    "I''ve already told you, it''s not an illness. It''s a special physiological reaction due to your unique constitution," Lucas spread his hands. "Your internal fire will continue to umte over time. This condition can only be alleviated, not cured."


    "So... so what you''re saying is..." La Signora instinctively clenched her fingers and murmured, "You and I will have to... keep doing this?"


    "To be precise, yes, again and again..." Lucas had a matter-of-fact expression on his face. "But I should be thanking you. After all, we''re ''helping each other.'' With you around, I won''t need to look for other women."


    "Other women..." La Signora suddenly recalled something, her expression shifting slightly. "Did you just call out someone else''s name? Was it... Rosalyne?"


    Because her memory had been sealed, La Signora didn''t know that this was her own name. Yet, for some reason, hearing it gave her a strange sense of familiarity.


    "That''s right," Lucas nodded without hesitation. "Rosalyne... was the woman I loved the most."


    "Hmph..." La Signora sneered coldly. "You im to have loved another woman, yet here you are, doing this with me. You really are scum."


    "I don''t think she would mind," Lucas said, staring at La Signora''s face with a bitter smile. "After all, she''s already passed away."


    Indeed, the moment "La Signora" was born, Rosalyne had died.


    From then on, the world only knew the Eighth Fatui Harbinger, and the girl who used to sing in Mondstadt''s square no longer existed.


    "What''s the matter?" A fleeting mncholy crossed Lucas''s eyes before he quickly returned to his usual smile. "Jealous because I called out another woman''s name?"


    "Jealous? Ridiculous!" La Signora immediately retorted. "You mean nothing to me. You can call out whatever name you want, and I couldn''t care less!"


    "Don''t worry," Lucas shook his head. "Next time, I won''t... call her name again."


    "Hmph, as if there''s going to be a next time..." La Signora half-spoke, then suddenly stomped her foot in frustration. "Who said there''d be a next time with you?"


    She quickly put on her clothes, preparing to leave. But before exiting, she made sure to warn him, "This matter stays between us. If you dare let anyone else know... you''ll end up as ice shards!"


    As Lucas watched her leave, he let out a long sigh.


    Every time he entered the "immersive mode," he felt like his words, actions, and even personality started to blend with the simted version of himself.


    If this kept happening, he worried that one day he might end up with split personalities.


    Strangely, after finishing La Signora''s "treatment," Lucas hadn''t immediately exited the immersive mode.


    But he didn''t mind. He simply dressed and walked out.


    Outside, he was met with a city both foreign and familiar¡ªSnezhnaya.


    Unlike the peaceful freedom of Mondstadt or the bustling prosperity of Liyue, Snezhnaya felt like a colossal iron beast. Towering, orderly buildings, factory chimneys belching thick ck smoke in the distance, and a sky so dark it felt like the bottom of a cauldron¡ªall of it created a palpable sense of oppression.


    It was alreadyte at night, and Snezhnaya enforced a strict curfew. The streets were patrolled only by soldiers, with the asional "Debt Collector" slipping through alleys, executing tasks that could only be done under the cover of darkness.


    Of course, as the Third Harbinger, "The Doctor," Lucas received respectful bows from every soldier he passed.


    Theb wasn''t far from the Doctor''s residence, and as soon as Lucas entered the house, he spotted a girl in a nightgown, sitting in a chair by the door and yawning softly.


    When she noticed him, she immediately perked up and used a quick-step movement to appear right in front of him, narrowing her eyes. "Why are you back sote today?"


    This girl was none other than Scaramouche.


    Though, as a doll, Scaramouche technically shouldn''t feel tired, her design was intricate enough to allow her to "sleep" as a way to automatically recharge her energy.


    Seeing the suspicion on Scaramouche''s face, Lucas awkwardly replied, "Well... of course, I was workingte. You know, the Fatui are preparing a special ops teamposed of undead, so there''s a lot of extra work."


    "Really?" Scaramouche squinted her eyes, moving even closer until her small face was pressed against Lucas, lightly sniffing his clothes.


    Her expression changed immediately. "Why do you smell like perfume?"


    Crap!


    Lucas''s heart skipped a beat.


    As a doll, Scaramouche had not only exceptionalbat skills but also enhanced sensory functions¡ªincluding heightened smell.


    Even the faintest unusual scent wouldn''t escape her nose.


    "This scent... it''s a rare and expensive perfume¡ª''Queen''s Kiss,''" Scaramouche remarked with a strange look. "As far as I know, only Her Majesty the Tsaritsa and that annoying woman use it. So... did you meet with her today?"


    The "annoying woman" referred to La Signora. Perhaps due to her dislike of the Doctor or the longstanding tension between Scaramouche and La Signora, the two Fatui Harbingers couldn''t stand each other.


    That meant if the Doctor hade into contact with "Queen''s Kiss," and it wasn''t the Tsaritsa, the only option left was La Signora.


    Seeing no way to deny it further, Lucas reluctantly nodded. "Yes, La Signora... dide to see me at theb."


    "Tch, so it was her after all," Scaramouche seemed relieved, waving her hand dismissively. "That''s fine then."


    "What do you mean, ''that''s fine?''" Lucas asked, a bit puzzled. "La Signora and I mette at night. Don''t you think something might''ve happened between us?"


    "You and La Signora?" Scaramouche smirked. "Not a chance! You''ve seen the way she looks at you¡ªlike you''re trash. Honestly, you iming to have met with the Tsaritsa secretly would be more believable."


    Thankfully, no spies were present in the Doctor''s residence, or Scaramouche''sstment might''ve earned her a death sentence for disrespecting the Tsaritsa.


    "I''m guessing she came to see you for work-rted reasons," Scaramouche crossed her arms, confident. "Even though that woman is annoying, she''s quite skilled. No way you''d be able to overpower her."


    In truth, Lucas''s strength had long surpassed that of both La Signora and Scaramouche. But since he kept his abilities hidden, even Scaramouche, who was close to him, had no idea of his true power.


    "Well... you''re not wrong," Lucas smiled, deciding to y along. "We were just... discussing some work-rted matters. No choice¡ªthere are things that only I can handle, even if she dislikes me."


    Of course, Scaramouche had no idea that what Lucas meant by "things" was entirely different from what she was thinking.


    "So... you haven''t been with any other women recently?" Scaramouche asked shyly, "Don''t you... feel ufortable?"


    In this dimension, Lucas had lived for over 500 years, bing a master at reading people''s intentions. Although most of his time had been spent in dark, isted basements, his ability to observe and understand others was well-developed.


    Naturally, he could tell what Scaramouche was hinting at.


    In fact, this wasn''t the first time Scaramouche had dropped these kinds of "hints" toward him.


    Despite Lucas making it clear on numerous asions¡ªespecially to her¡ªthat she was off-limits, Scaramouche seemed unwilling to give up, constantly giving him subtle signs.


    It wasn''t because shecked charm. On the contrary, Lucas was quite fond of the "tomboy" type. However, he still believed it was best to maintain their current rtionship.


    After all, if they crossed that line, there would be no turning back.


    "I haven''t done anything," Lucas said with a stretch, smiling faintly. "Work''s been too busytely. I haven''t had time for anything else. When things calm down a bit, maybe I''ll have some time to rx. But for now, I''m going to bed. Goodnight."


    Watching Lucas walk away to his room, Scaramouche bit her lip in frustration. The edge of her loose nightgown revealed a sliver of ckce hidden underneath.


    "Ugh..." she muttered under her breath. "I even went through the trouble of putting on new clothes for this..."


    [Exiting Immersive Mode]


    [Entering Text Mode]


    [Age 535: Throughout the next year, you maintained your special ''doctor-patient rtionship'' with La Signora. Sometimes it was two or three times a week; other times, just once every couple of weeks.]


    [Of course, you knew well that clearing the internal fire within her body only required a monthly session. However, you weren''t about to point this out. Your rtionship was simple: theboratory was your ''treatment room,'' and each sessionsted one to two hours.]


    [As for the exact timing, you and La Signora had a unique signal: whenever she didn''t wear perfume, that was the night for treatment. After all, too much contact with her perfume might arouse Scaramouche''s suspicions.]


    [The amusing part was that no matter how passionate La Signora seemed during the process, the moment it was over, she would revert to her usual cold self, pull up her skirt, and leave without so much as a word of affection. At those moments, you almost wondered if you were the one being used.]


    [You understood, though, that this was for the best. La Signora''s face was identical to Rosalyne''s. If she ever showed even a sliver of warmth, you feared you wouldn''t be able to control your emotions.]


    [One of the key rules for a Fatui Harbinger is that they cannot marry or have children. Harbingers cannot afford to have weaknesses, especially romantic ones with fellow Harbingers. This was likely the primary reason the Tsaritsa demanded that Rosalyne be a Harbinger¡ªto sever any chance of rekindling your rtionship.]


    [So, the "secret" between you and La Signora had to remain just that. The enmity between you was so pronounced that no one would ever suspect what was truly going on beneath the surface.]


    [Age 536: The Fatui weed the Ninth Harbinger, "Puppet."]


    [Age 537: Thanks to your undead army, Snezhnaya''s military strength continued to grow. However, this caused internal tensions as resources were stretched to support the ever-growing army. To divert attention and relieve pressure, Snezhnaya pointed its sights at thend of fire, Nan.]


    [Nan was the weakest of the seven nations, known for its fierce, warlike people, yetgging behind in terms of economic and technological development. Itcked strong ties with other nations, making it the perfect target for invasion.]


    [This mission was assigned to you by the Tsaritsa. As a Harbinger, you had no choice but toply. You had already prepared for this, though. You unveiled yourtest research¡ª<strong>Ursa the Drake</strong>.]


    [A thousand years ago, Ursa the Drake wreaked havoc across Teyvat, but after battling the South Wind Lion of the Four Winds, Vennessa, the dragon fled, eventually dying from its injuries.]


    [Through an unexpected discovery, you obtained the dragon''s remains. Using your resurrection techniques, you created a replica of Ursa the Drake. Although not as powerful as the original, the replica still possessed considerable strength. Alongside Ursa, you also created an army of undead creatures.]


    [Youmanded Ursa the Drake and the undead tounch a surprise attack on Nan, throwing the nation into chaos. Of course, even with the dragon, it would be difficult to conquer an entire nation, so you used this opportunity to march in with your army under the pretense of ''rescue,'' ending this war you had orchestrated from the shadows.]


    [The war decimated Nan, forcing them into an unequal treaty with Snezhnaya. Though everyone knew this conflict was likely a chess move by Snezhnaya, Nan had no choice but to submit to the overwhelming force.]


    [This war left hundreds of thousands of innocent Nan citizens disced or dead. Yet, as you watched their faces filled with hatred, your heart remained untouched.]


    [Demon, executioner, schemer, Tsaritsa''s hound... countless titles were bestowed upon you. Your "infamy" spread not only through Nan but also to other nations.]


    [Killing one person is a crime. But killing 10,000, or even 100,000? You shattered any notion of "goodness" five hundred years ago when you razed Mondstadt. To you, "life" was no different from walking corpses.]


    [Achievement Unlocked: Butcher]


    [Talent Reward: Executioner]


    [Effect: When killing a target, you can receive a reward proportional to the target''s strength.]


    Whoa, whoa!


    Don''t give me such terrifying abilities...


    Lucas couldn''t help but sweat as he read through this Chapter.


    In Keqing''s simtor, he was just a school bully. In Shenhe''s simtor, he was, at worst, a bit of a lecher. But now, he had be a mass murderer.


    This jump in characterization was far too extreme!


    Lucas couldn''t shake the feeling that, with each passing moment, his simted self was bing more and more like the actual "Doctor."


    [With your schemes and Snezhnaya''s oppressive policies, Nan quickly became a vassal state of Snezhnaya. This bold move caused displeasure in nations like Sumeru and Fontaine, but due to the power gap, their ''displeasure'' amounted to little more than criticism in the newspapers.]


    [Fontaine even tried to cut off trade with Snezhnaya as a form of protest, but that charade ended quickly. After all, without the grain imports from Snezhnaya, the so-called "romantic" nation couldn''t possibly survive on love alone.]


    [For Snezhnaya, a nation that values might, you returned as a war hero after conquering Nan. While you were seen as a blood-soaked demon in other countries, to the people of Snezhnaya, you were a hero without equal.]


    [However, you had no interest in fame or glory. For you, the only useful thing about this war was the fresh corpses it provided for your experiments. Ursa the Drake had performed admirably, but it still had many ws. You needed to perfect it.]


    [Upon returning home, your residence was filled with gifts and rewards. The Jester gave you a golden mask, the General gifted you a precious sword from Inazuma... but what intrigued you the most was La Signora''s ''gift''¡ªa simple white silk handkerchiefced with the scent of ''Queen''s Kiss.'']


    [Scaramouche scoffed at La Signora''s gift, but only you understood its meaning¡ªtonight, La Signora would be waiting for you in theb.]


    [However, Scaramouche, as the Sixth Harbinger, also prepared a ''gift'' for you. She personally cooked an entire feast for you.]


    [Looking at the cuts on her fingers, you couldn''t help but feel touched. For Scaramouche, cooking was likely a thousand times harder than killing. Unsurprisingly, the food tasted terrible. You imagined whoever created her must not have had much talent for cooking either.]


    [Still, you finished everything on your te, showing your appreciation. After all, during your time in the underground cer, you could eat bread as hard as stone. Scaramouche''s cooking was nothing inparison.]


    [Afterward, Scaramouche told you, with a sly smile, that the meal was only the gift from ''Scaramouche.'' She had another gift prepared just for you, from ''Kunikuzushi,'' and you had toe to her room tonight to ''collect'' it.]


    [You could guess what kind of ''gift'' Scaramouche had in mind. Seeing the confident look in her eyes, you knew that if you entered her room tonight, you wouldn''t being out. But on the other hand, La Signora was also waiting for you in theb. Faced with this dilemma, you decide to...]


    [1. Go to Scaramouche]


    [2. Go to La Signora]


    -----


    Author''s Note: Alright!! Last Chapter for today


    From now on we''ll have regr updates of 1 chap but I could post extra If given enough powerstones!! So make sure to donate a lot of powerstones on reset and get this to ranking! Love you all >-<


    200 powerstones = 1 extra chap

 Chapter 27: Villain Simulator, Ch 27

    <h4>Chapter 27: Viin Simtor, Ch 27</h4>


    "Why am I being forced to make this kind of choice?"


    For Lucas, this dilemma was perhaps more difficult than all the previous choicesbined.


    Before, the options were mostly about choosing between being a good person or a viin. This time, the choice was clearly between being a jerk¡ªor, well, a different kind of jerk.


    Yet, after a brief internal conflict, Lucas made his decision.


    "La Signora."


    It felt a bit cruel to Scaramouche, but Lucas had never seen her in that way. If this incident could make her give up on those feelings, it might be for the best.


    [You finally rejected Scaramouche, making the excuse that you needed toplete some work in theb before hastily leaving the house. As you left, you caught a glimpse of the deep disappointment in her eyes, but you steeled yourself and walked away.]


    [To celebrate the victory, Snezhnaya lifted the curfew for three days, allowing the citizens to revel all night. To avoid being recognized, you disguised yourself before heading to theb. Originally, only two keys existed for theb¡ªyours and Scaramouche''s¡ªbut now, a third key had been given to another person: La Signora. You unlocked the door with your key...]


    "Enter immersive mode."


    This time, Lucas entered the simtion without hesitation.


    Truthfully, he could have chosen another ce for these secret meetings with La Signora, but to avoidplications, he stuck with theb. Besides, La Signora didn''t seem to mind¡ªshe''d even mentioned liking the cold, hard surface of theb table.


    "You''re here?"


    Sure enough, a familiar figure had been waiting for some time inside theb.


    With the war in Nan upying most of his attention, it had been a while since Lucasst helped La Signora "treat" her condition.


    "Yes, Scaramouche kept me for a bit," Lucas nodded, then paused. "Wait, have you been drinking?"


    Sure enough, a wine ss sat beside La Signora, with half of its contents remaining.


    "Consider it a toast to your sess," La Signora said, offering a rare smile. "Though, only as the Eighth Harbinger."


    "And as yourself?" Lucas stepped closer, lifting her chin with his fingers. "What gift do you have for me in that capacity?"


    A blush crept across her face as she reached behind her, pulling out a small bottle filled with slime condensate.


    Slime condensate was a material derived from the body of a Slime, often used for its stic and moldable properties in industrial applications. It could even be eaten, though it had little nutritional value and a rather nd taste, akin to jelly in the real world.


    Of course, like jelly, it had other uses beyond being eaten.


    A man of Lucas''s experience quickly understood its implication. He raised an eyebrow in surprise. "But... haven''t you always refused to do something like this?"


    It was true¡ªwhile he and La Signora had maintained an intimate rtionship, it had always been rather conservative. Certain acts, especially those requiring her to kneel before him, had been out of the question, given her pride.


    "Just this once," La Signora huffed, her voice cold. "Don''t expect it to happen again."


    Slime condensate was a peculiar substance.


    Though it came from the body of a magical creature, itcked any signs of life itself. As food, it provided no real nourishment and tasted rather nd, aside from its unusual texture.


    However, for "other purposes," its effects were extraordinary.


    Even with La Signora''s somewhat clumsy attempts, the slime condensate helped magnify the experience, making it far more than the sum of its parts.


    Yet, more than the physical sensation, watching the usually proud La Signora lower herself before him filled Lucas with a sense of conquest that was far more satisfying than anything physical.


    "Aren''t you... done yet?" La Signora shot him a weary nce. Despite her immense strength, even she couldn''t help but feel a bit of fatigue.


    "Almost," Lucas replied, keeping his rhythm steady. "It won''t be long now."


    "Almost there."


    "Just a bit more."


    These were, without a doubt, the lies Lucas had told the most in his life. He had deceived Shenhe with them many times before, and now La Signora too.


    Finally, after another half hour, Lucas "hit the jackpot."


    "Cough, cough..."


    La Signora coughed awkwardly. During the process, she had identally swallowed some of the slime condensate, along with something else of a simr texture.


    She wasn''t sure why she had agreed to do something like this. Perhaps she simply wanted to celebrate Lucas''s return, or maybe she wanted to show her gratitude in her own way.


    Of course, she kept telling herself that this didn''t change how much she hated him.


    "This treatment was an interesting experiment," Lucas remarked as he dressed. "Perhaps we should explore more ''medical solutions'' in the future."


    "I refuse," La Signora retorted, her cold demeanor back in ce. "I told you, this was a one-time thing."


    "Nothing is ever absolute," Lucas teased, raising an eyebrow. "Besides... it didn''t seem like you hated it all that much, did you? To be honest, out of all the gifts I received upon my return, yours might be tied for first ce."


    "Tied?" La Signora sneered. "Let me guess, the other gift... it''s from that little brat, isn''t it?"


    The "little brat" was, of course, Scaramouche. Though the nickname was a bit of a stretch, it made senseing from the tall and statuesque La Signora.


    "Yes, she¡ªlike you," Lucas said with a knowing smile, "is struggling to do something she''s not very good at."


    "My apologies for being clumsy and untalented," La Signora scoffed. "I suppose, in your eyes, that brat is more important."


    As soon as the words left her mouth, she regretted them.


    Why... did I say something like that? It almost sounds... like I''m jealous.


    "Scaramouche is important to me," Lucas said seriously. "But there''s noparing the two of you."


    There truly was noparison.


    Lucas''s rtionship with Scaramouche was more akin to that of Leon and Mathilda in *L¨¦on: The Professional*, or Silco and Jinx in *Arcane*. To him, Scaramouche represented a deeper emotional bond¡ªsomething closer to family, even more intimate than actual blood rtions.


    "So... in the end, I really can''tpare to her, can I?"


    A soft, pained voice suddenly echoed from behind, catching Lucaspletely off guard. He turned swiftly to see a familiar figure standing at the door, staring at the two of them with aplicated expression.


    It was Scaramouche!


    Lucas hadn''t expected her to show up here, and given the current situation between him and La Signora, even a fool could guess what had happened.


    "Scaramouche..." Lucas forced himself to remain calm. "When... when did you get here?"


    With his strength, it was unlikely that anyone could approach without him noticing, but he had let his guard down during the "treatment," and Scaramouche''s stealth abilities were extraordinary.


    "Since you two... started doing that," Scaramouche muttered through gritted teeth. "No wonder you never epted me... It''s all because of her, isn''t it?"


    "It''s not like that!" Lucas shook his head. "The two things aren''t rted at all. She''s just¡ª"


    "You don''t need to exin," Scaramouche interrupted, her lips curling into a bitter smile. "Of course, you prefer this kind of woman. To you, I''m not even a real woman... no, I''m just a puppet. You never saw me as human at all!"


    It was no surprise that Scaramouche was furious. The man she loved had chosen to be with her most hated rival. If not for her immense self-control, she might have alreadyshed out.


    "This isn''t what you think," Lucas sighed. "Let''s go home, and I''ll exin everything."


    But there was no way to exin things in this situation.


    "No need..." Scaramouche''s expression was heartbroken. "I guess I was just... an extra all along. I wish you both... the worst."


    With that, the girl turned and ran out the door without looking back.


    "Wait!" Lucas tried to follow, but he was still half-dressed. Shaking his head, he muttered, "That girl..."


    "Aren''t you going after her?" La Signora finally spoke up.


    "Chasing her now would only cause a bigger scene," Lucas sighed. "She''ll go home eventually. Once she''s calmed down, I''ll exin everything to her."


    "But aren''t you afraid..." La Signora''s voice carried a hint of tension, "that she might reveal our secret?"


    "Don''t worry. I know her," Lucas said confidently. "Besides, even if she did, what would happen? Do you think the Tsaritsa would punish me for something like this after I just brought back such a victory?"


    "Never underestimate a woman..." La Signora warned softly. "Especially when ites to matters of the heart. They''re capable of anything."


    "Is that so..." Lucas looked at La Signora with a teasing expression. "So, you do have emotions after all?"


    "People aren''t made of stone; of course, they have feelings..." La Signora''s gaze softened momentarily before snapping back to its usual sharpness. She cast a sidelong nce at Lucas and added, "But my feelings will never have anything to do with someone like you."


    "That''s fine," Lucas responded nonchntly. "I''m not interested in your emotions. Your body is all I need."


    After spending time with her, Lucas hade to terms with things.


    La Signora and Rosaline were two different entities, more like a connection between past and present lives than the same person. Thefort he found in La Signora had nothing to do with the memories of Rosaline.


    Surprisingly, La Signora didn''t get angry at his remark. She only sighed wearily. "Get out of here, go back to your little brat."


    Without saying more, Lucas donned his coat, put on his mask, and disappeared into the darkness outside the door.


    "You''re lucky..." La Signora muttered to herself. "At least you have someone to hold onto. But I... have nothing."


    [Exit Immersive Mode]


    [Enter Text Mode]


    [You thought that, as usual, Scaramouche would eventually forgive you after you sweet-talked her enough. But this time, things were different. Scaramouche seemed genuinely angry, and for a whole month, she refused to speak to you.]


    [When she finally did, her first words were simply a formal greeting during an official meeting of the Harbingers. "Hello," she said.]


    [You tried several times to have a proper conversation with her, but she never gave you the chance, refusing to speak beyond necessity. She even began requesting more external missions to avoid you.]


    [The only smallfort was that she didn''t move out of your house. As long as you both lived under the same roof, you still considered yourselves family. You figured that it was only a matter of time until things eased between you¡ªbut time was something you had in abundance.]


    [So, a strange dynamic developed. On the surface, you and Scaramouche seemed close, but in reality, you were estranged. Meanwhile, you and La Signora appeared to be at odds, yet behind closed doors, your rtionship was... intimate.]


    ...


    [Age 538: A young man named Ajax was promoted by the Fifth Harbinger, Pulcine, to be the newest andst of the Fatui Harbingers, code-named "Tartaglia." Unlike the others, he hadn''t been directly chosen; he had risen through the ranks from a lowly Fatui soldier. Although he held the lowest position, his potential andbat instincts even made you take notice.]


    [Despite his position, Tartaglia was anything but humble. He didn''t bow to any of his "seniors." But when it came to you, he showed great respect, telling you that it was his admiration for you that led him to join the Fatui.]


    [Unbeknownst to you, you had be a figure of admiration for many in Snezhnaya. The Fatui''s growth was partly driven by people joining in hopes of following your example.]


    [Age 539: Just as raw jade must be polished, so must young warriors hone their skills. You created arge number of undead soldiers for Tartaglia to train against, using the opportunity to gather more data and improve thebat capabilities of your creations.]


    [In time, you and Tartaglia became something close to friends. His enthusiasm and carefree nature were a refreshing contrast to the usual atmosphere within the Fatui. asionally, his demeanor reminded you of a certain someone¡ªRostam, your once-dear friend.]


    [Age 540: Snezhnaya''s power continued to grow, and the annexation of Nan caused the nation to expand further. However, this strength also worried the Tsaritsa. She knew all too well that the tallest tree in the forest is the first to be felled. Thest nation to rise to such prominence met a tragic end¡ªthe destruction of Khaenri''ah, a conflict she had personally witnessed.]


    [Under Pierro''s advice and long-term nning, the Tsaritsa finally announced the "Gnosis Collection n"¡ªa mission to collect the Hearts of all the Archons, regardless of the cost.]


    [The Heart of the Pyro Archon had already been secured as part of the unequal treaty with Nan.]


    [Naturally, the Fatui Harbingers were tasked with leading these missions. Tartaglia was sent to Liyue, La Signora to Mondstadt, and Scaramouche volunteered to go to Inazuma.]


    [After the fallout from yourst incident, your rtionship with Scaramouche had hit rock bottom. Even so, you sought her out, urging her to reconsider the mission. Deep inside, you had a terrible premonition that something disastrous would happen if Scaramouche went to Inazuma.]


    [But Scaramouche refused outright, even hinting that her reasons for going extended beyond just retrieving the Gnosis. She promised that when she returned, she would surprise you.]


    [You didn''t know what her other objective was, but you understood that once she set her mind on something, there was no changing it. However, to ensure her safety, you ordered the Dragon Ursa to wait near Inazuma and assist her if she encountered any danger.]


    [Age 541: La Signora''s mission went smoothly. In Mondstadt, she sessfully retrieved the Anemo Archon Barbatos''s Gnosis. Though Mondstadt''s morale had taken a heavy blow, there were rumors that Barbatos''s powers had already waned.]


    [Even so, a god''s power should never be underestimated. Whether Barbatos''s weakened state was genuine or part of a deeper ploy remained a mystery.]


    [Age 542: While on his mission, Tartaglia encountered setbacks, leading him to unleash The Overlord of the Vortex Osial, causing catastrophic damage to Liyue. Although the people of Liyue managed to seal Osial once again, Tartaglia''s actions made both the Fatui and Snezhnaya targets of widespread condemnation.]


    [That "disaster" turned out to be part of the Geo Archon Morax''s n. As a result, his Gnosis was handed over to La Signora as payment. Now, Snezhnaya held four of the seven Gnosis.]


    [To celebrate, the Tsaritsa hosted a grand ceremony. Just as everyone began to think that the Gnosis Collection n would continue smoothly, a deafening roar echoed from outside the pce. Your heart sank, for you recognized that roar¡ªit belonged to the Dragon Ursa.]


    [You rushed out of the pce, your usually calm demeanor reced by rare panic. The scene that greeted you was shocking.]


    [Dragon Ursa was sprawled across the pce square, its tough scales covered in wounds. The most noticeable injury was a long gash, exposing the rotting muscle beneath.]


    [You knew that Dragon Ursa possessed the power of a demigod, with extraordinary defense. To inflict such damage, the attacker had to be either a more powerful god or a being of equal strength.]


    [Then, you saw a figure tumble off Dragon Ursa''s back. Rushing forward, you caught her in your arms¡ªScaramouche, badly injured and on the verge of copse. Her body was covered in wounds, but when she saw your face, she managed a weak smile and whispered in your ear: "I did it... I really... did it..."]


    [She then passed out. Before the Tsaritsa could give an order, you took her straight to yourb. As the best doctor in the world, only you could save her.]


    ------


    Author''s Note: Remember guys!


    200 powestones = extra Chapter


    The more powerstones you give the more Chapters you get!!!

 Chapter 28: Villain Simulator, Ch 28

    <h4>Chapter 28: Viin Simtor, Ch 28</h4>


    [Even though you knew that Scaramouche was just a puppet and no matter how severe her injuries, you could repair her, this time, a strange sense of anxiety weighed on your heart.]


    [You expertly picked up the scalpel, intending to slice through Scaramouche''s skin as you had many times before. But just as the de touched her body, your hand suddenly froze.]


    [You''ve dissected tens of thousands of bodies. Even the slightest sensation through the de tip is enough for you to understand the condition of the skin beneath it. And now, you felt something unmistakable¡ªthe skin you were about to cut wasn''t the material of a puppet. It was real human skin¡ªalive, warm, fragile.]


    [Soon, you discovered something shocking: Scaramouche''s body, once purely mechanical, had transformed into that of a real human. The intricateponents inside her had be human organs, and the tiny power core that once sustained her was now a beating heart¡ªweak and on the verge of failure.]


    [You didn''t know why Scaramouche''s body had undergone this transformation. You only knew one thing: healing a human was far more difficult than repairing a puppet.]


    [Scaramouche, severely injured, coughed up blood. You held her face in your hands, murmuring, "You won''t die... I swear, I won''t let you die!"]


    [You had treated countless patients before, but you''d never felt nervous. To you, every human body was just a machine, a system to be fixed using a precise method. But now, with someone so important lying on your operating table, for the first time, your hand holding the scalpel began to tremble uncontrobly.]


    [Scaramouche''s injuries were severe, but it seemed that a strange power was slowly healing her. That power felt familiar¡ªas if you had encountered something simr when you held the Pyro Archon''s Gnosis years ago.]


    [You had no time to think about the connection. Your entire focus was on this operation. You''d never failed before, and this time, you absolutely couldn''t afford to fail.]


    [Atst, after an intense operation, you managed to stabilize Scaramouche''s condition. Though still unconscious, she was no longer in immediate danger. Just as you were about to exhale in relief, La Signora suddenly entered the room, her expressionplex as she informed you that the Tsaritsa was calling a Harbinger meeting, and you were required to attend.]


    [You noticed the unusual look in La Signora''s eyes but decided to apany her. When you arrived, an informant embedded in Inazuma was reporting the details of what had transpired.]


    [Everything had gone ording to n. Scaramouche had stationed herself at the Delusion factory on Yashiori Ind, assisting in the manufacture and distribution of Delusions. Through a mysterious "transaction," Scaramouche had sessfully obtained the Gnosis from Yae Miko, the head priestess of the Grand Narukami Shrine.]


    [However, after acquiring the Gnosis, Scaramouche suddenly betrayed Yae Miko,unching a surprise attack and severely injuring her. This, in turn, alerted the Raiden Shogun, who quickly arrived and engaged Scaramouche in battle.]


    [Despite the immense power of a god, Scaramouche was at a disadvantage. But for some reason, the Raiden Shogun never delivered a killing blow. In the heat of the battle, Dragon Ursa appeared, rescuing the heavily injured Scaramouche. Although the Raiden Shogun attacked Ursa, the dragon managed to escape.]


    Seeing these events unfold, Lucas was left utterly shocked.


    This isn''t right!


    This isn''t how things were supposed to go at all!


    He distinctly remembered that in the original storyline, after obtaining the Gnosis, Scaramouche was supposed to disappear temporarily. But here, in the simtion, why did she attack Yae Miko?


    [As the report concluded, everyone knew what had happened. Dragon Ursa had brought the heavily wounded Scaramouche back to Snezhnaya. Tsaritsa did not ask about Scaramouche''s injuries but instead questioned you about the whereabouts of the Electro Gnosis. You truthfully told her that you hadn''t found the Gnosis yet and that the full truth could only be learned after Scaramouche regained consciousness.]


    [Tsaritsa didn''t say much, but she did inform you that Tartaglia''s actions in Liyue had already put Snezhnaya under heavy scrutiny. Scaramouche''s behavior had further pushed the country to the brink of crisis. You were advised to prepare for the severe consequences Scaramouche would soon face.]


    [Sure enough, a few dayster, Inazuma sent a diplomatic envoy¡ªGeneral Kujou Sara¡ªdelivering an ultimatum.]


    [It was revealed that after obtaining the Gnosis, Scaramouche had absorbed its power into her body. Overwhelmed by the immense strength, she had lost control, which led to her grievously wounding Yae Miko and drawing the attention of the Raiden Shogun.]


    [Kujou Sara stated that the severity of this incident could not be overstated. She demanded that Snezhnaya hand over both Scaramouche and the Gnosis, as well as pay a hefty reparation. Otherwise, Inazuma would use this as a pretext to form an alliance with other nations and dere war on Snezhnaya.]


    [For years, Snezhnaya''s actions had angered the other nations. They had tolerated it only due to Snezhnaya''s immense military strength. Now, with Scaramouche''s "crime," they had the perfect reason to band together and weaken Snezhnaya.]


    [For any ruler, this was an easy decision. While Snezhnaya was strong, it wasn''t yet powerful enough to stand against thebined forces of every other nation.]


    [Moreover, Scaramouche''s decision to absorb the Gnosis without permission was a clear act of betrayal. Whether handed over or not, she was bound to face severe punishment.]


    [Thus, Tsaritsa made an immediate decision: Snezhnaya would hand over Scaramouche.]


    [You, of course, protested right away. Tsaritsa, as if expecting this, calmly told you that she was already aware of your rtionship with La Signora. If you were willing to give up Scaramouche, not only would she spare you both from any punishment, but she would also arrange for you to marry La Signora. Furthermore, La Signora had already agreed to this.]


    [Faced with the Tsaritsa''s "offer," your choices were...]


    [1. Agree and give up Scaramouche.]


    [2. Refuse and insist on protecting Scaramouche.]


    [3. Temporarily agree, but n a rescueter.]


    Scaramouche must not be abandoned.


    Lucas knew this all too well.


    But outright refusing the Tsaritsa''s suggestion would mean outright defiance,mitting a grave crime of insubordination. Not only would it make protecting Scaramouche impossible, but it would also endanger himself.


    "I choose... the third option."


    [You agreed to the Tsaritsa''s conditions for now, but you immediately began nning a way to rescue Scaramouche.]


    [Not long after, Scaramouche regained consciousness and confessed everything. Tsaritsa ordered her to be imprisoned.]


    [With the Gnosis now inside Scaramouche, surrendering her would mean giving up the Gnosis as well. Handing it over after all that effort wasn''t something Tsaritsa wanted either.]


    [At this point, you offered a solution: you could extract the Gnosis from Scaramouche''s body and rece it with a fake. That way, when Snezhnaya handed her over, Inazuma would receive a powerless puppet, severing any further ties to Snezhnaya.]


    [Tsaritsa was suspicious, but she agreed. After all, no one else in Teyvat had the skills necessary for such a procedure.]


    [As you prepared to enter the prison, you encountered a familiar figure.]


    [Entering Immersive Mode!]


    The figure approaching was none other than La Signora.


    She seemed to have been waiting for Lucas, anticipating his arrival.


    "You''vee after all," she said, her tone unusually calmpared to her usual disdain. "Do you really think you can extract the Gnosis from Scaramouche''s body?"


    "We won''t know until we try," Lucas replied with a smile. "It''s all for the greater n."


    "You should know by now," La Signora added, her voice cool, "Tsaritsa has already approved our marriage. Once this is over, we''ll be wed."


    "I didn''t expect you to agree to such a thing," Lucas''s smile turned teasing. "I thought you hated me."


    "I do hate you. Even now," La Signora shook her head. "But this is Tsaritsa''s order. I have no choice."


    "Well then, I suppose I should thank both of you," Lucas said, spreading his arms. "But why did youe here? Just to tell me how lucky I am?"


    "No," La Signora leaned in, whispering in his ear. "I came to warn you not to do anything foolish. Tsaritsa has taken precautions. If you think you''ll be able to rescue Scaramouche during this, you won''t even make it out of the prison."


    "Thanks for the warning, but don''t worry," Lucas smiled. "I''m quite fond of living."


    As Lucas walked into the prison, La Signora murmured, "For your sake, I hope that''s true... for both of us."


    Scaramouche was imprisoned in the most heavily guarded cell, reserved for only the worst criminals.


    Finally, after opening the thick iron doors, Lucas saw her familiar face.


    "You''vee... You finally came."


    To his surprise, Scaramouche seemed in good spirits. Far from her cold demeanor before, she smiled at him. "I knew you woulde for me."


    Scaramouche had been transferred here right after regaining consciousness, leaving Lucas without a chance to speak with her.


    Now, all the questions swirling in his mind condensed into just one bitter sentence: "Why did you do it?"


    "Because... I wanted to be human."


    Scaramouche looked down at her hands, her eyes soft. "I wanted to hold you, for you to feel my warmth. I wanted to be like other women and do with you... the things you do with them."


    "And for that reason alone?" Lucas asked sternly. "Do you know the chaos you''ve caused?"


    "I know exactly what I did," Scaramouche replied, her voice steady. "I also know this is probably thest time I''ll ever see you. La Signora came to see me earlier. She said she would take good care of you. Do you know why I always hated her? Because I was so jealous. Jealous that she had a human body and could always catch your eye."


    "So, before I die, fulfill my final wish," Scaramouche stepped forward and embraced Lucas tightly, her voice full of contentment. "Even if it''s only once, I want to be one with you... as a human."


    Whether it was stealing the Gnosis or betraying the Tsaritsa, even knowing it would cost her life...


    All of it was for this reason?


    Regret gnawed at Lucas. If only, just once, he had epted Scaramouche''s "request," maybe things wouldn''t have reached this point.


    This foolish girl had believed that the reason he kept rejecting her was simply because she wasn''t human.


    "Smack!"


    Lucas''s fist came down hard on Scaramouche''s head. Her newly human body, still not used to pain, couldn''t withstand the blow, and tears welled up in her eyes.


    "W-What was that for?" Scaramouche whimpered, rubbing her head. "I was just getting into the mood!"


    "Sorry about that," Lucas chuckled, pping the dust off his hands. "But as for what you just said... I''ll have to refuse."


    "W-What..."


    A deep sense of disappointment spread across Scaramouche''s face as she murmured, "Everything I did... was for this moment, and even now, you''re still going to reject me?"


    "You''re wrong. What I''m rejecting isn''t this," Lucas replied calmly. "What I''m rejecting is the idea of letting you die."


    "That''s impossible," Scaramouche shook her head. "This prison is the most heavily guarded ce in all of Snezhnaya."


    "I know that better than anyone," Lucas shrugged. "After all, I helped n the construction of this prison. I memorized every part of its design."


    Lucas, who could remember even the mostplex medical textbooks, had no troublemitting the entire blueprint of the prison to memory.


    "Even so, what difference does it make?" Scaramouche nced at her ankle, where a sturdy iron shackle was fastened. "With this thing still on me, there''s no way I can leave, even if you wanted to."


    It wasn''t an ordinary shackle but one crafted from special steel and cold iron by Snezhnaya''s finest artisans under the Tsaritsa''s orders. Unless someone had the key, only the Tsaritsa herself could remove it.


    It was like the iron chain around Xiao Zhao''s ankle in *The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber*¡ªnothing could break it except the Heaven-Relying Sword.


    Lucas thought of making a joke about whether Scaramouche had changed her underwear in the past few days, but it felt inappropriate for the moment, so he kept quiet.


    "This chain?" Lucas squatted down in front of Scaramouche, gripping the iron links with both hands. "Let me give it a try."


    "Don''t bother," Scaramouche shook her head. "After absorbing the Gnosis, my strength increased significantly, but even with that, I couldn''t break it. How could you..."


    *Snap!


    With a crisp sound, the unyielding cold-iron chain shattered into pieces, falling to the ground.


    Scaramouche blinked in disbelief, muttering, "How... how did you do that?"


    "Well..." Lucas dusted off his hands nonchntly. "Maybe I''m just a little stronger than you thought."


    Lucas had never disyed his full strength to anyone. Even to Scaramouche, who was closest to him, he seemed like nothing more than a "decently fit, slightly hunched older man."


    The only one who had a vague understanding of his true strength was La Signora¡ªafter all, an ordinary human couldn''t withstand her physical prowess or possess such enduring stamina.


    "Stop kidding around. You must have used some sort of trick," Scaramouche still refused to believe that Lucas had broken the chain purely through strength. Suspiciously, she asked, "Did you develop some kind of acid that corrodes metal?"


    To Scaramouche¡ªand indeed, to most people in Snezhnaya¡ªthe Harbinger known as "The Doctor" was regarded as a brilliant mastermind. Within the Fatui, he was more akin to a strategist or advisor than a fighter.


    Most believed that the Doctor''s position among the powerful Harbingers was due to his intelligence, not physical prowess.


    No one knew the true nature of the body that housed his brilliant mind.


    "Oh, yes, yes! You caught me," Lucas replied yfully, not bothering to deny it. "You''re a sharp one, aren''t you?"


    "Now''s not the time for jokes," Scaramouche said, her expressionplicated. "You must realize how slim the chances are of sessfully escaping. Even if you did, you''d be hunted by Snezhnaya for the rest of your life, never finding peace..."


    "Enough with the chatter. Just tell me this¡ªdo you want to leave?" Lucas extended a hand to Scaramouche. "Come with me, and we''ll get out of here together."


    "Do you even have to ask?" Without hesitation, Scaramouche grasped his hand firmly. "If we''re caught, we''ll die together."


    "Good," Lucas nodded. "Now, we can move on to the next step. Of the guards watching over you, which one do you dislike the most?"


    "Number 4524," Scaramouche frowned. "Every time he''s on shift, he looks at me with this disgusting gaze."


    Even in her puppet form, Scaramouche had always been strikingly beautiful, though her clothing and demeanor often led people to mistake her for a cute boy. Now, as a human, her appearance had be even more alluring. If it weren''t for the strict supervision in the prison, there might have been some unscrupulous guards who would have tried something indecent.


    "Then it''s him," Lucas said as he pulled out amunicator. "Guard 4524,e here."


    "Y-Yes, sir!"


    The voice on the other end sounded nervous. Momentster, a gaunt guard in his forties entered the cell, bowing respectfully. "What are your orders, Doctor?"


    "Oh, nothing much," Lucas smiled. "I just need to borrow something from you."


    "W-What is it?" the guard asked, his voice trembling.


    "Your life."


    Before the guard could react, he copsed to the floor, lifeless. Even Scaramouche, with her sharp skills, could barely follow Lucas''s movements¡ªit seemed he had simply tapped the man''s temple lightly with his finger.


    Could it be that... Doctor was actually as powerful as he imed?


    ---


    Author''s Note: We did not meet the powerstone goals ??Looks like you guys really dont want extra Chapters I guess...


    Cmon reach 400 by today and I give you 2 extra chaps!!!


    Oh btw join discord as I''ve uploaded character images in it!


    discord.gg/ZRZ7pQH9w3

 Chapter 29: Villain Simulator, Ch 29

    <h4>Chapter 29: Viin Simtor, Ch 29</h4>


    Ten minutester, with the cell door open, Lucas and the guard who had entered earlier left the prison together.


    "Doctor, have you finished your task?" another guard asked.


    "Not yet. I need to retrieve something and this guy will help me," Lucas patted the guard on the shoulder. "I''ve already administered a sedative to Scaramouche. Until I return, do not open the cell door under any circumstances."


    "Understood!"


    The guard seemed deeply honored. After all, who would question the orders of a national hero like Lucas? "Shall I send a few men to assist you? Guard 4524 isn''t exactly known for his strength. I could find some strongerds to help."


    "No need. This guy will suffice." Lucas shook his head and then coldly barked at Guard 4524, "Why are you standing there like an idiot? Get moving!"


    Guard 4524 said nothing, only nodding silently as he hurriedly followed Lucas.


    Once they had walked about 30 meters, ensuring no one else was around, Guard 4524 suddenly spoke in a clear, feminine voice, "I can''t believe we actually got away with it."


    Indeed, Lucas''s n was surprisingly simple. Using his masterful disguise techniques, he had transformed Scaramouche into the likeness of a guard, allowing them to slip away unnoticed.


    With the influence the "Doctor" wielded in Snezhnaya, no one dared to suspect him. Most importantly, the other guards wouldn''t believe that a lowly, unassuming guard had been switched right under their noses.


    "This was just the easiest part," Lucas replied, showing no signs of relief. "The hard partes next."


    Lucas knew full well that a simple n like this might fool the guards, but it wouldn''t deceive Tsaritsa or the other Harbingers.


    Especially Tsaritsa. She had likely been aware of Lucas''s intentions for some time. There was a good chance that soldiers were already stationed outside the prison, waiting to ambush him and Scaramouche the moment they stepped out.


    This prison break was a gamble from the start.


    Even with just a one-in-a-million chance, Lucas had to take the risk.


    "What''s your n?" Scaramouche asked, her voice tinged with nervousness.


    "I''ve already instructed Ursa to be on standby," Lucas replied. "As long as we make it out of Snezhnaya, we''ll be fine."


    "Leave Snezhnaya..." Scaramouche murmured. "And after that, where will we go?"


    "Did you know? I bought a piece ofnd in Sumeru. It''s notrge, but I''ve opened a small winery there. I hired some fruit farmers, a winemaker, and even a bard," Lucas gently patted her head with a smile. "We could live in seclusion there¡ªmake wine, listen to music. If you''d like, we could even adopt a few kids..."


    No one would believe that such words woulde from someone who, in the eyes of the world, was no less than a devil.


    As Lucas spoke, a soft look of longing appeared in Scaramouche''s eyes.


    In the past, she would have scoffed at such sentiments, ridiculing him for dreaming up such nonsense.


    But now, she could picture it in her mind¡ªa peaceful and beautiful future.


    "Maybe..." Scaramouche whispered, "we don''t need to adopt."


    After all, she was no longer a mere puppet. Her body now had the capability to create life.


    Lucas immediately understood what Scaramouche was implying, but he could only offer a wry smile in response.


    In this world, thanks to the curse he bore from researching immortality, Lucas had long lost the ability to have children.


    ---


    And so, as they walked down that not-so-long prison corridor, Lucas and Scaramouche hastily nned out a future worth dreaming about.


    However, deep down, both of them knew that this dream was as fragile as a soap bubble.


    Contrary to Lucas''s expectations, when they exited the prison gates, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. There were no ambushes¡ªjust a few guards smoking and chatting casually.


    Given his understanding of the Tsaritsa, Lucas found it impossible to believe she would be so careless. If Scaramouche wasn''t handed over, it could bring a massive crisis to Snezhnaya.


    But he had no time to dwell on it. Lucas whistled sharply, and a ck shadow loomed overhead. From the sky, a massive, jet-ck dragon descended, mes of malevolent energy rippling across its body. The dragonnded right in front of Lucas.


    This was one of Lucas''s greatest creations¡ªthe dragon Ursa the Drake.


    Creating such a powerful being without divine intervention was a feat only a few people could match, like the alchemist Gold from the fallen nation of Khaenri''ah or Lucas himself.


    The few guards nearby jumped in fright at the sight of the massive dragon. Even Scaramouche couldn''t help but pale a little.


    "What are you waiting for? Get on!" Lucas patted Scaramouche on the shoulder. "Don''t worry. It doesn''t bite."


    Scaramouche huffed softly but leaped onto Ursa''s back. Surprisingly, the terrifying dragon let out a low, almost pitiful whimper, seemingly ufortable with someone other than Lucas riding it.


    "Quit acting like that," Lucas tapped Ursa''s head lightly. "From now on, this woman is your master too. Make sure you protect her."


    At that moment, Scaramouche''s eyes widened in surprise. "W-What did you just say?"


    "I said make sure Ursa protects you," Lucas answered, puzzled. "Wait... you don''t have your recording device anymore, do you?"


    In the past, as a puppet, Scaramouche had several useful mechanicalponents built into her body.


    "Not that!" Scaramouche shook her head. "What you said before that!"


    "What I said before...?" Lucas thought for a moment before replying casually, "This... woman?"


    "Yes!" Scaramouche''s face lit up with joy. "You finally... acknowledged that I''m a woman!"


    "Is now the time to talk about that? Fine, fine! You''re a woman¡ªadorable, beautiful, soft, and warm!" Lucas sighed and then muttered under his breath, "And also... mine."


    As he prepared to jump onto Ursa''s back, a sudden sense of danger made the hair on the back of his neck stand on end.


    Over the past five centuries, it wasn''t just his physical strength that had been enhanced¡ªhis senses had be incredibly sharp as well.


    Just as he was about to pull Scaramouche off the dragon, a massive arrow of ice shot from the distance, heading straight for Ursa.


    Though shaped like an arrow, its size dwarfed even the bolts fired by siege crossbows. This was no ordinary attack¡ªit was divine power, prepared and unleashed at just the right moment.


    Even with all his strength, Lucas couldn''t stop the iing projectile. With a loud crack, the giant ice arrow pierced Ursa''s chest, and in an instant, both the dragon and Scaramouche were encased in ice.


    "Doctor..." an icy,manding voice echoed from above. "You''ve disappointed me."


    Hovering in the sky was none other than the Tsaritsa, surrounded by swirling snow and ice. Her gaze was cold and imperious, and her presence made the temperature around them plummet dramatically.


    The sky darkened, heavy snow began to fall, and thick clouds rolled in, casting everything in a gray, oppressive light.


    It had been 500 years since the Tsaritsa had revealed her true power, not since the end of the Khaenri''ah war.


    Now, before Lucas''s eyes, her youthful appearance was changing rapidly. She transformed into a tall, mature woman with a curvaceous figure, her elegant robes expanding along with her form.


    "I gave you chance after chance," the Tsaritsa sighed, though her breath turned into a swirling blizzard. "Doctor, I''ve always acknowledged the contributions you''ve made to this nation, but don''t think for a moment that I won''t punish you."


    "I have no intention of opposing you, Your Majesty," Lucas responded with rare humility. "I''m willing to give up everything, even my own life, if it means sparing Scaramouche."


    "You don''t have the right to negotiate with me," the Tsaritsa said, her tone brooking no argument. "But I will offer you onest chance¡ªgive up Scaramouche. The previous deal I offered you still stands. Even if I spare her, Inazuma won''t. Protecting her means opposing Snezhnaya... and the world."


    Lucas''s expression twisted into a bitter smile. "Why is it that despite all I''ve done for this world, it still insists on pushing me to the brink? Mondstadt, Snezhnaya... I''ve sacrificed everything for you, and yet, you leave me no choice but to stand against you."


    "You''ve grown arrogant, Doctor. It''s almostughable," the Tsaritsa sneered. "But that ends now. I will ensure your treachery remains hidden, and when you die, I will have you buried as a hero in the Saintess'' Cemetery."


    The Saintess'' Cemetery was the highest honor in Snezhnaya¡ªa burial ground reserved for the nation''s most revered figures.


    In her own way, the Tsaritsa was being "merciful."


    "Sorry, but I''ve always hated cemeteries," Lucas said, his tone darkening. "All those bodies, rotting away in the dirt... Such a waste of useful material."


    "How dare you threaten me?" the Tsaritsa''s voice turned icy. "Very well, you''ll soon see the consequences of defying me."


    With a wave of her hand, the block of ice containing Scaramouche broke free from Usar and floated toward the Tsaritsa.


    "If we want to extract the Gnosis, we''ll need to destroy this ''vessel,''" the Tsaritsa said coolly. "Inazuma will have no objection to receiving her corpse."


    "Give Scaramouche back!" Lucas leaped toward her, but just then, a lightning-d spear came hurtling toward him from a distance.


    Lucas instinctively unsheathed a katana from his waist and sliced the spear in half in mid-air.


    The sword was a gift from the "General," a fellow Harbinger, after Lucas''s triumphant return from the war with Nan¡ªa weapon fittingly called Oni-Cutter.


    As if on cue, a familiar, confident voice echoed nearby, apanied by lightughter. "I knew it."


    From the shadows emerged a man with striking orange hair and a mask on his face¡ªnone other than Childe.


    "Doctor, you''ve been hiding your true power all this time," Childe said with a grin. "That strike was incredible."


    "Childe..." Lucas narrowed his eyes. "Are you here to stop me?"


    Indeed, the one who had attacked Lucas moments ago was the Eleventh Harbinger, Childe.


    "Honestly, I''d love to test my strength against yours, Doctor," Childe said, a hint of disappointment in his voice. "But the Tsaritsa has ordered five of us to... take you down."


    True enough, four other Harbingers appeared alongside Childe: Z (the Rooster), Columbina (the Damselette), Sandrone (the Marite), and Capitano (the Captain).


    Oddly enough, despite the overwhelming odds, Lucas felt a brief sense of relief.


    At least La Signora wasn''t among them.


    To deploy almost half of the Fatui''s elite Harbingers just to deal with Lucas proved that the Tsaritsa acknowledged his formidable power.


    Though the Harbingers varied in strength, even the weakest among them had power rivaling that of gods, with the top-ranking Pierro (the Jester) possibly being as strong as a deity himself.


    "No need for hesitation," the Tsaritsamanded coldly. "Eliminate him immediately."


    For the Tsaritsa, extracting the Gnosis from Scaramouche was the top priority, leaving the task of defeating Lucas to the other Harbingers.


    "Doctor, just surrender already," Capitano, the Tenth Harbinger, stepped forward with a sneer. "Sure, you''re high-ranked, but that''s only because you''ve been around longer than most of us. While we were risking our lives on the frontlines, you were cozy in yourb, enjoying your wine and women. Why should someone like you be above us?"


    Lucas didn''t know much about Capitano, only that he had always resented his lower rank. This was likely his chance to settle the score by belittling the Doctor.


    "Why?" Lucas raised his katana, Oni-Cutter, and casually swung it at Capitano.


    "For this."


    Lucas''s swing seemed weak and aimless, as if apletely untrained person had casually waved a sword. He stood at least ten meters away from Capitano, so it was clear that the strike couldn''t possibly reach him¡ªit appeared to be little more than an empty gesture.


    "Is that all you''ve got?" Capitano sneered, a mocking smile crossing his face. "I actually expected something from your power, but... *smack*!"


    A soft sound, as though something had dropped to the ground, echoed in the air.


    At first, Capitano didn''t feel anything, but as he instinctively reached for his weapon, he noticed something shocking¡ªhis right arm had been severed without him realizing it, now lying at his feet.


    "W-what...what is this? My arm!" Capitano screamed, disbelief overtaking him. "How...how could this happen?"


    "This sword is called Oni-Cutter. It''s not just any weapon¡ªit''s my ''scalpel.'' People cut by this sword don''t feel any pain, which means I can skip the step of administering anesthesia," Lucas exined calmly. "In other words, I can make you watch as I slice your body into pieces, bit by bit."


    In truth, Capitano''s strength was formidable¡ªas one of the Fatui Harbingers, he wasn''t to be underestimated. The only reason he had been caught off guard was his arrogance.


    "Damn you! You think you can underestimate me?" Capitano growled. Although a sense of fear had surfaced in his heart, there was no way he could back down in this situation. After all, there were still four other Harbingers beside him. No matter how strong the Doctor was, it was impossible for him to face all five at once.


    But just as Capitano was about to retreat a couple of steps, an unexpected development urred¡ªhe felt a sharp pain in his chest. A spear tip, gleaming with purple energy, had pierced through his back and emerged from his chest.


    The familiar weapon, glowing with a violet hue, belonged to none other than Childe.


    "Huh?" Capitano gasped, turning around in disbelief. Standing behind him, Childe shed a wicked grin. "Sorry, but unlike the Doctor''s fancy weapon, this spear probably...hurts quite a bit."


    "Childe! What are you doing?" The Fourth Harbinger, Columbina, eyed him darkly. "Are you betraying the Tsaritsa as well?"


    "My loyalty to the Tsaritsa is unmatched," Childe responded casually as he walked over to stand beside Lucas, his tone nonchnt. "But I just did a little thinking. Fighting such a strong enemy as the Doctor would be loads of fun, but if I''m teaming up with you four, that takes away four-fifths of the excitement. And that would be such a waste. So, I''m going to kill you all first. Then I can have a one-on-one fight with the Doctor."


    If anyone else had said this, they would have been dismissed as a lunatic.


    Buting from Childe, it somehow made perfect sense. After all, he was a battle maniac¡ªor perhaps, more urately¡ªa true madman.


    Though his betrayal was unexpected, it wasn''t entirely surprising.


    The fight had barely begun, and one of the five Harbingers had already been critically wounded. What had started as a one-against-five situation had suddenly shifted to a two-on-three battle.


    Moreover, Lucas had just demonstrated his incredible prowess. The sudden shift in circumstances only heightened the tension.


    "Everyone, don''t panic," Columbina, evidently the leader of this "elimination squad," quickly took control of the situation, maintaining herposure even after the unexpected twist. "It''s still three against two. We hold the advantage."


    Besides, the one who had switched sides was Childe, the lowest-ranked Harbinger. There should be no reason for this fight to be in doubt.


    And indeed, it seemed so.


    "Why are you doing this?" Lucas asked, eyeing the grin on Childe''s face with a frown. "This is a foolish decision."


    Lucas knew the words Childe had spoken were just an excuse. The real reason was much simpler¡ªChilde just wanted to help him.


    ------


    Author''s Note: Well well well! That escted quickly but as promised I gave you the extra chap!!


    Now cmon 400 isnt that far you all can do it for another extra chap atleast!

 Chapter 30: Villain Simulator, Ch 30

    <h4>Chapter 30: Viin Simtor, Ch 30</h4>


    "I believe I made a smart decision," Childe stretchedzily and smiled. "After all, I don''t want to end up dead by your hand."


    Lucas, eager to save Scaramouche, had no intention of wasting time. Combining Inazuma''s famed de with the essence of the Favonius Swordmanship he had learned from his old friend "Rostam," what should have been a difficult battle against overwhelming odds turned into a one-sided ughter by Lucas.


    At that moment, the five Fatui Harbingers finally realized the terrifying truth¡ªthis silver-haired man, often holed up in hisb like a mad scientist, possessed perhaps the purest and most powerful strength among all eleven Harbingers.


    Of the four Harbingers who fought, three were dead, and one was critically injured. Though Childe had betrayed, he barely had a chance to participate in the fight. Even the strongest among them, Columbina, couldn''t withstand Lucas''s onught.


    The most ironic part was that Lucas wasn''t even using the power of the Vision or the Delusion¡ªhe had defeated them all with nothing but swordsmanship.


    The only one left alive was Capitano, who had been severely injured at the start.


    After pulling his de from Columbina''s chest, Lucas nced at Childe and asked, "So, are you going to fight me now?"


    "Honestly, I''m tempted," Childe grinned. "But right now, saving Scaramouche is more important for you, isn''t it? Let''s save our fight for another time."


    Lucas gave Childe aplicated look and, after a brief "Thank you," disappeared into the distance, racing toward the Tsaritsa''s pce.


    As soon as Lucas left, Childe''s smile faded, and beads of cold sweat rolled down his forehead. He could barely keep himself standing¡ªLucas''s killing intent had almost caused his legs to give out.


    "Turns out, I''m the biggest coward after all. I''m sorry, Tsaritsa..." Childe muttered, trembling as he wiped the sweat from his brow. "I still have family... my younger siblings. I can''t... die here."


    "Coward..." Capitano, lying on the ground with his blood already frozen by the ice and snow, red viciously at Childe. "Tsaritsa... she will never forgive you."


    "If she finds out about this, she certainly won''t," Childe sneered. "But how will she ever know?"


    Capitano seemed to catch on to Childe''s implication, and with a look of shock, he asked, "What... what are you nning?"


    "Don''t worry. I''ll report to the Tsaritsa that Capitano, the Tenth Harbinger of the Fatui, fought bravely against the Doctor but ultimately sumbed to his injuries," Childe said calmly as he approached Capitano, standing over him. "Four dead and one injured¡ªwe were no match for the Doctor. But the one who''s injured... isn''t going to be you."


    "You¡ª"


    Before Capitano could finish his sentence, Childe''s spear had already pierced through his skull.


    "I wonder... will my rank move up after you die?" Childe mused aloud, stabbing Capitano''s corpse a few more times for good measure. After ensuring that all the other Harbingers were dead, he picked up a short knife and stabbed himself multiple times in the body.


    Childe was infamous for his brutal and ruthlessbat style¡ªhe was just as harsh on himself as he was on his enemies. As blood poured from his wounds, he finally copsed, lying motionless on the ground. Staring at the distant ice pce shrouded in crimson clouds, he let out a bitterugh. "Please... don''t die, Tsaritsa."


    Yes, at that moment, his concern was not whether Lucas would survive, but for the Tsaritsa''s safety.


    Indeed, as one of the Seven Archons, the Tsaritsa''s power was overwhelmingly strong.


    But the Doctor... was like an unfathomable abyss, and no one knew how many trump cards he still had hidden.


    ...


    Inside the Pce of Snezhnaya


    This grand pce, akin to Inazuma''s Tenshukaku or Mondstadt''s Favonius Cathedral, was the most prestigious building in the nation.


    To the people of Snezhnaya, simply stepping inside was considered the highest honor.


    For Lucas, the Third Harbinger of the Fatui, this pce was a familiar ce. He was one of the few allowed to enter while bearing weapons.


    But now, this former hero of Snezhnaya entered as a traitor.


    Two rows of heavily armed Fatui soldiers stood at attention along the pce hall, but none made a move to stop him as he walked deeper into the pce.


    At the center of the hall stood arge ss container filled with an unknown green liquid. Floating inside, unconscious, was Scaramouche.


    The Tsaritsa stood before the ss, her back to Lucas, and spoke calmly, "So you''ve finally arrived. As expected, they couldn''t dy you for long. It seems we''ll need to recruit new Harbingers once this is over."


    "You knew they weren''t my match..." Lucas said, his face expressionless. "But you still sent them to stop me."


    "You see, Pierro is the soul of the Fatui, Pulcine is the body, and you... you are the brain. As long as the three of you remain, the Fatui will function. The others are merely receable parts," the Tsaritsa said without emotion. "I must admit, you''ve been a useful piece on my chessboard. But I don''t need pieces that refuse to follow orders."


    "I''ve been a piece my whole life, but from today onward, I''ll be the one moving the pieces," Lucas said, stepping forward. "The Gnosis has fused with Scaramouche. You won''t be able to extract it."


    "The Gnosis cannot be destroyed. This acid willpletely dissolve her body," the Tsaritsa said, cing her hand on the ss as if gently caressing Scaramouche''s face. "You''re all my beloved pieces, but in chess, victory requires sacrifices. Even I can be sacrificed."


    "It seems negotiations won''t work," Lucas muttered, trying to remain calm, but he couldn''t help feeling anxious as he watched Scaramouche submerged in acid. "Let''s make another deal."


    Lucas knew Scaramouche''s newly acquired body was resilient¡ªshe couldst about three more minutes in the acid.


    "A deal?" the Tsaritsa sneered. "What could you offer me? Don''t tell me it''s that undead army. Don''t worry, I''ve already frozen them all. Mondstadt''s tragedy won''t repeat itself in Snezhnaya."


    The Tsaritsa had always been wary of Lucas, and after the disaster in Mondstadt, she had ensured strict control over the undead army. There was no chance Lucas had prepared any hidden forces within the city.


    "My bargaining chip..." Lucas said slowly, "is the lives of three-fifths of Snezhnaya''s poption."


    "Are you joking?" The Tsaritsa narrowed her eyes. "Even if you had the power, do you think I''d let you ughter my people?"


    "I didn''t want to resort to this," Lucas sighed, a hint of regret in his voice. He snapped his fingers.


    With a crisp "snap," over half of the Fatui soldiers in the pce suddenly began convulsing in agony. Their bodies twisted in unnatural ways, and their left eyes filled with blood.


    A momentter, with a sickening *pop*, their eyeballs burst in their sockets, and from the empty eye sockets, a grotesque red flower bloomed, its petals shimmering like blood.


    Under some unknownmand, the infected soldiers began attacking the others. The once silent pce was soon filled with the sounds of screaming and agony.


    Even the usuallyposed Tsaritsa was taken aback. "What... what did you do?"


    "All these years, I''ve been visiting the ruins of Khaenri''ah, not to find old machines but to search for the body of the previous Dendro Archon who died during the war," Lucas said coldly. "I found part of her¡ªthe tip of a finger. Of course, even I couldn''t use that fragment to revive a god. But I could let her... be reborn inside me."


    "You''re mad!" the Tsaritsa whispered in shock. "You''re desecrating the gods!"


    "Does it matter?" Lucas''s face twisted as vines began to grow from his skin, bursting out like veins.


    "I''ve already desecrated enough things."


    500 years ago, during the Khaenri''ah War, all seven of the Archons participated, and both the Dendro Archon and Electro Archon perished.


    The body of Raiden Baal was taken back by her sister, Raiden Ei (Beelzebul), while the body of the Dendro Archon was too damaged, and only a portion was recovered.


    After a long and arduous search, Lucas finally obtained a part of the Dendro Archon''s remains.


    At first, Lucas''s experiments showed no progress. His research focused on "death," while the power of the Dendro Archon symbolized "life." These two elements seemed entirely ipatible and could not be fused.


    After many failures, Lucas decided to take a risky approach¡ªhe imnted the remaining Dendro Archon''s genes into his own body.


    This process was extremely dangerous. Such immense power was beyond human control and could cause severe damage to his body. However, Lucas had an exceptionally strong regenerative factor that could offset some of the damage. After much deliberation, he decided to embed the Dendro Archon''s genes into his body.


    As expected, this caused him excruciating pain, and parts of his body even turned into nts. However, his powerful regeneration allowed him to survive and gain partial control over the Dendro Archon''s powers.


    It was widely known that a Vision served as an external organ that allowed a person to manipte elemental power. Only those with Visions could use elemental abilities. However, gods were not bound by these limitations. What Lucas obtained was the purest, most original Dendro power.


    "I used the Dendro Archon''s power,bined with my own techniques, to develop a type of ''spore,''" Lucas said as he opened his hand, revealing a few tiny green specks floating in his palm. "These spores can silently enter the human body and remain dormant. Once I give themand, they will immediately absorb the host''s nutrients, bloom into corpse flowers, and parasitize the host... just like what''s happening to those soldiers."


    The parasitized soldiers were feasting on the corpses of theirrades, while the corpse flowers, nourished by the flesh and blood, glowed with an eerie crimson light.


    The Tsaritsa frowned slightly. "How many people have you infected with these spores?"


    "Everyone. All the citizens of Snezhnaya," Lucas replied calmly. "Though about 40% of people have a natural immunity to the spores, so unfortunately, only about 60% will be parasitized."


    If anyone else had said this, the Tsaritsa might have dismissed it as the ravings of a madman. Buting from the Doctor, it was highly likely that all of it was true.


    "Both Pulcine and Pierro are currently not in Snezhnaya. If this ''gue'' were to break out..." Lucas''s expression remained cold. "Your Majesty, you should know what that would mean."


    "You''ve gone this far already?" For the first time, a rare expression of surprise crossed the Tsaritsa''s face. She murmured, "Still, my mind is made up. The Snezhnayans who must be sacrificed for this will surely understand¡ªit is all for the sake of the final victory."


    Without hesitation, the Tsaritsa pressed the button on the dissolving machine. The acidic liquid in the ss container began to bubble, and inside, Scaramouche''s face twisted in pain.


    Had he miscalcted?


    Lucas hadn''t expected the Tsaritsa to be so determined, willing to sacrifice more than half of her people just to obtain the Gnosis.


    In fact, he had indeed scattered spores throughout Snezhnaya. However, there was a limitation¡ªthe farther the spores were from him, the slower they activated.


    At this moment, he had already triggered the hidden spores, but it would take at least ten minutes for them to fully spread.


    "Since negotiations have broken down..." Lucas sighed. "It seems I have no choice but to... challenge a god with a mortal body."


    "Hmph, even the previous Dendro Archon at their peak wouldn''t be my match," the Tsaritsa scoffed. "You, who have only stolen a fraction of their power, what can you do?"


    The Tsaritsa understood that the Doctor possessed strength far beyond his appearance. But so what? Mortal power had limits, and between mortals and gods, there existed an insurmountable gulf.


    Raising her hands, the Tsaritsa summoned a brilliant transparent ice bow. The arrow that had earlier frozen the Dragon Ursa had been shot from this very bow.


    This time, however, the arrow was much smaller. Lucas suspected that this attack needed to be charged to reach its full power.


    Naturally, he wouldn''t give the Tsaritsa that chance. Even though he could easily defeat three or four Harbingers, he knew that fighting a god was not something to be taken lightly.


    With the sword Oni-Cutter in hand, Lucas dashed toward the Tsaritsa, his movements so swift they were almost ghost-like.


    The Tsaritsa sneered and instantly fired dozens of ice arrows. It seemed this technique could freely switch between power and speed.


    Slice! sh! Stab!


    Lucas swung his de, cutting down each arrow that came his way. However, every arrow he destroyed exploded into icy mist that clung to his body. By the time he reached the Tsaritsa, his entire body was coated in frost.


    In the blink of an eye, Lucas was already right in front of the Tsaritsa. But just as he was about to strike, his de froze in mid-air, as if suspended. His entire body had been encased in ice, transformed into a lifelike ice sculpture.


    "Foolish," Tsaritsa dered, her expression stern as she gazed at the frozen figure before her. "Soft, fragile saplings cannot hope to ovee the eternal, unyielding ice."


    As the Archon of Ice, Tsaritsa had mastered the power of the ice element to its absolute peak. She could freeze nearly anything¡ªexcept time itself.


    Crack!


    But then, a crack appeared in the ice. From that crack emerged a deep green sprout.


    More and more cracks spread across the ice, until it shattered and fell away in pieces. Watching this unfold, the Tsaritsa instinctively took a step back, her voice trembling with disbelief. "What... what are you?"


    Half of Lucas''s body had beenpletely overtaken by nts, and in some ces, blood-red flowers¡ªlike the ones blooming from the parasitized soldiers¡ªhad sprouted.


    His left arm had twisted into a grotesque mass, bing a host for these blood flowers, both terrifying and strangely beautiful.


    "''What'' am I?" Lucas raised his monstrous arm and swung it toward the Tsaritsa''s face. "I''m your father!"


    Anyone who has yed a game knows what happens when a mage is attacked at close range.


    Though the Seven Archons represent the pinnacle of power in Teyvat, their strength and skills vary. For example, the Geo Archon, Morax, is a well-rounded fighter, capable of both devastating ranged and closebat.


    The Tsaritsa, while unmatched in her mastery of the ice element, had littlebat experience. Stunned by Lucas''s transformation, she momentarily forgot to defend herself. Before she could react, she felt a sharp pain in her face as her body was sent flying.


    This wasn''t just a p. The vines that had grown from Lucas''s arm acted like a whip, leaving deep gashes across the Tsaritsa''s wless face.


    Of course, it wasn''t because the Tsaritsacked power¡ªunder the influence of Lucas''s talent, [Old But Vigorous], he had nearly 500 years of umted strength. The physical force behind his blow was beyondprehension.


    Any lesser being would have had their skull shattered.


    "You... you dare strike me!" Even the normallyposed Tsaritsa lost her cool. "Tomit such an act of defiance, I will never forgive you!"


    "h, h, h! You always talk a lot of shit," Lucas shouted, his patience long gone. "I''ve tolerated you long enough!"


    "You... you..." The Tsaritsa, unustomed to being insulted in such a way, found herself speechless. Her pale face flushed red with humiliation.


    "''You'' what? Shut up!" Without giving her a chance to recover, Lucas raised his twisted arm, now growing and swelling evenrger. "Just shut up already!"


    With that, the monstrous vines pinned the Tsaritsa against a stone pir, quickly wrapping around and binding her body.


    At this point, Lucas''s arm was no longer recognizable as a limb. It resembled something out of Akira, a grotesque, swollen mass of nts and vines.


    This was the power of the Dendro Archon''s genes, manifesting through Lucas''s immense physical strength, even overwhelming the Tsaritsa.


    "Let... let me go..." The Tsaritsa struggled against the vines, but she couldn''t break free. "Release me... mmmph!"


    A vine, snake-like, slithered around her face and sealed her mouth, cutting off her protests mid-sentence.


    "Mmmph... mmph..." The Tsaritsa''s body writhed as drool escaped the corners of her mouth. Tears of frustration welled up in her eyes.


    Despite this bizarre scene, Lucas couldn''t help but feel something strange. After all, his monstrous arm was still a part of his body, and he could clearly feel everything it touched.


    ------


    Author''s Note: Its hashirama cells all over again ??


    Anyways sorry forte chap cuz I fell asleep but less goo!

 Chapter 31: Villain Simulator, Ch 31

    <h4>Chapter 31: Viin Simtor, Ch 31</h4>


    Of course, this also included the vine in the Tsaritsa''s mouth.


    However, now wasn''t the time to dwell on these random thoughts. Lucas knew very well that, given the Tsaritsa''s power, he could only restrain her for less than a minute.


    Lucas swiftly turned and swung Oni-Cutter, slicing the ss container imprisoning Scaramouche into pieces with a single strike.


    The ss had been specially reinforced, but even that couldn''t withstand Lucas''s de. As the ss shattered, the corrosive liquid inside spilled out, and Scaramouche''s body slipped out with it. Upon contact with the air, her body immediately began to emit white steam.


    "Scaramouche! Scaramouche!" Lucas shook her body, but she appeared to be in a deepa, showing no reaction.


    Without hesitation, Lucas pulled out a syringe from his coat and injected it directly into Scaramouche''s chest. Her body convulsed immediately, and with a deep gasp, she woke up.


    Seeing Scaramouche regain consciousness, Lucas finally exhaled in relief. His previously tense face softened atst.


    "Cough... cough..."


    Scaramouche blinked as she woke up, still not fully aware of her surroundings. Her confused gaze wandered around beforending on the Tsaritsa, who was pinned to a pir.


    The mighty Tsaritsa, usuallymanding in her presence, was now wrapped in twisted vines, with one stuffed in her mouth, looking utterly humiliated.


    "Am I... already dead?" Scaramouche murmured. "Why... am I seeing such a strange sight?"


    "I told you, I wouldn''t let you die here." Lucas pulled her into his arms and said, "We have to leave right now!"


    "Doctor!" Scaramouche, now fully recognizing Lucas, said excitedly, "I''m not dead... I''m really not dead?"


    Her memory was still stuck on the moment she was struck by the Tsaritsa''s giant ice arrow. At the time, she had thought for sure she was doomed.


    "Of course not!" Lucas replied with exasperation. "I brought you back!"


    "Pfft!"


    At that moment, the Tsaritsa bit through the vine in her mouth and spat it out, but the sap sttered all over her face, making her look even more disheveled. "You won''t escape. As soon as this arm lets go, I''ll break free... and I''ll repay this humiliation tenfold!"


    "In that case, I''ll leave this arm for you to y with."


    Without hesitation, Lucas swung his sword and severed his own arm. Despite being cut off, the arm continued to writhe, tightening its grip around the Tsaritsa.


    Meanwhile, a new arm quickly grew from Lucas''s severed stump. Though his natural healing factor wasn''t enough for limb regrowth,bined with the Dendro Archon''s genes, he was able to rapidly regenerate a new limb, made from both flesh and nt matter.


    "Ugh..."


    The Tsaritsa groaned as the vines tightened around her, squeezing her body. She spat out a mouthful of blood and coldly muttered, "With blood as my offering, I summon the Frostbound Tomb!"


    As her words faded, the temperature in the air plummeted. From the pce''s floor and ceiling, countless ice spikes surged forth, rapidly spreading toward Lucas and Scaramouche. Anything in their path was instantly frozen solid.


    Clearly, the enraged Tsaritsa had unleashed her full power. Though Lucas wasn''t afraid, the weakened Scaramouche wouldn''t survive any more injuries.


    Carrying Scaramouche, Lucas dashed toward the pce doors. Yet, even as he ran, the ice spread faster than he could move. Just when the freezing cold was about to engulf them, a wall of mes erupted behind them, instantly vaporizing the advancing ice.


    Lucas was startled and turned to see a familiar figure. Standing behind them, surrounded by zing fire, was none other than Rosalyne¡ªthe Fair Lady¡ªin the exact form she had taken when they had burned together 500 years ago.


    "Signora!"


    Lucas eximed in surprise. "You..."


    "Eighth Harbinger of the Fatui, La Signora, herebymits the grave sin of defying Her Majesty the Tsaritsa," Rosalyne said seriously, wrapped in mes. "It seems you''ll have to take me with you when you escape."


    Lucas was momentarily stunned but then gave a wry smile. "That''s fine, the vineyard I bought is pretty big."


    Of course, the bed was also big.


    "Why?"


    The Tsaritsa''s voice was icy. "Why would you betray me too? Don''t you know that he abandoned you for another woman?"


    "I know. No one hates him more than I do for that decision," Rosalyne nodded, smiling coldly. "That''s why I''m going to punish him by haunting him for the rest of his life."


    Looking at the smile on Rosalyne''s face, Lucas suddenly felt a chill down his spine. Maybe dying here would have been the easier oue.


    "You will all..." The Tsaritsa''s once-beautiful face now twisted with rage. "...pay for this."


    ...


    As the three of them rushed out of the pce, it was immediately engulfed in ice.


    However, the sight before them caused them to halt in their tracks.


    A massive army. The Fatui, over 100,000 soldiers strong, fully equipped and blocking the Tsaritsa''s pce in every direction like an imprable wall.


    "Boom!"


    With a loud crash, the pce doors behind them copsed as the Tsaritsa emerged from the swirling frost.


    "It seems your so-called ''spores'' were just a bluff. My army is perfectly fine," the Tsaritsa said with a cold smile as she surveyed her troops. "Or did you have a sudden change of heart and decide not to kill the Snezhnayans who admire and respect you?"


    "To me, they are mere ants. The only reason I didn''t crush them earlier was that it wasn''t necessary,"


    Lucas sighed. "But if those ants stand in my way, that changes things. Now, Your Majesty, watch closely..."


    "Bloom, flesh flowers."


    Lucas''s voice was as ominous as a whisper from the god of death. Suddenly, a piercing scream split the air as a soldier''s eyeball popped out of its socket, and from the hollow eye, a blood-red flower bloomed. Then another soldier, and another...


    Screams, curses, and wails filled the air. What had been an orderly army was now a chaotic scene as blood-colored flowers bloomed across the ranks, spreading like crimson ink in clear water.


    More than half the soldiers quickly transformed into puppets, their bodies taken over by the blood-flower parasites. Those unaffected were attacked by theirrades, their throats torn open, their spines snapped, their bellies ripped apart as chaos descended upon the once-disciplined army.


    "You really did it..." The Tsaritsa murmured in disbelief. "You would trade an entire nation for one person. Is it worth it?"


    "For Scaramouche, I''d trade everything."


    Lucas handed Scaramouche to Rosalyne and whispered, "And of course, you too."


    "Tch, so I''m just a bonus?" Rosalyne red at him. "What... what are you nning to do?"


    "Nothing much," Lucas said without turning back.


    "I''m just going to kill a god."


    Watching the man approaching her, the Tsaritsa, who had been so sure of her victory, suddenly felt a wave of nervousness. "Don''te any closer! I''m giving you onest chance..."


    "You think you''ve been giving me chances this whole time? No, it''s been me giving you chances." Lucas continued walking forward, undeterred. "You wanted to see rivers of blood? Fine, I''ll give you more blood than you could ever imagine."


    Something simr had happened 500 years ago, but this time, Lucas had no intention of holding back.


    The Tsaritsa''s relentless pursuit had forced him to open this Pandora''s box.


    "Die!"


    Countless ice des materialized behind the Tsaritsa and shot toward Lucas. With a sharp sound, one of the des pierced through his abdomen, leaving a gaping hole.


    "Doctor!" Rosalyne cried out in rm.


    But Lucas did not stop. He stepped on a nearby soldier''s corpse, which dissolved into a mass of blood and flesh. Absorbing it, his wound healed instantly.


    "You can''t kill me. This entire city is my nourishment." Lucas''s voice was cold. "Your Majesty, tell me... are you satisfied now?"


    "No... don''te closer!"


    The Tsaritsa could no longer maintain herposure. She unleashed all of her icy divine power.


    "cial Freeze!"


    "Absolute Zero!"


    "Frost Ray!"


    "Multi-Ice Arrows!"


    "Furious Blizzard!"


    "Cold Wave Assault!"


    She unleashed a barrage of her most powerful ice-elemental abilities, sparing no effort, but no matter how severe the injuries these attacks inflicted on Lucas, his body would instantly heal by absorbing the flesh and blood of the corpses beneath him.


    These "spores," created by Lucas, infected any living thing they touched, allowing him to use their bodies as fuel to restore his health.


    After the thirty-fourth time his head was partially shattered and healed, Lucas finally reached the Tsaritsa. She, a proud goddess, now realized she couldn''t kill this man.


    "S-stop... enough already!" The Tsaritsa''s spirit was finally broken. She muttered, "Go... just go! I... won''t try to stop you anymore... mmm!"


    Once again, Lucas extended vines from his arm to silence the Tsaritsa by covering her mouth. However, this time, the vine slipped down her throat.


    This act forced the Tsaritsa to roll her eyes in agony, all grace and dignity vanishing from her face.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t kill you. The death of a god would draw the attention of Celestia," Lucas said calmly. "Instead, I''ll make sure you live for a very long time... but as a tree."


    More vines extended from his arm, wrapping around the Tsaritsa''s body. These agile vines quickly invaded every essible part of her body.


    After a brief, painful struggle, the Tsaritsa''s expression turned nk, her will to resistpletely extinguished.


    The surface of the vines pulsed, delivering nutrients to the Tsaritsa as her body transformed into a towering tree, standing in front of the pce with only her face visible. From her vine-covered mouth, muffled words could barely be heard:


    "Kill... kill me..."


    "Don''t worry, everything dies eventually," Lucas said, detaching his arm once more. "You''ll probablyst a few thousand years... in this form."


    [Achievement Unlocked: Godyer]


    [Talent Acquired: yer of Archons]


    [Effect: Damage against all Archon-ss targets is increased by 100%]


    Well, this talent is like getting a Lamborghini coupon for five dors.


    No matter how powerful Lucas became in the simtor, it was still just a simtion. In reality, he''d be lucky to even scratch the Tsaritsa. Even with a 100% damage boost, 1 point doubled is still just 2 points!


    [Exiting Immersive Mode]


    [Entering Text Mode]


    [Age 542: The Harlequin and the Director returned to Snezhnaya and were shocked by the events that had transpired. However, rather than confront you, they proposed a "deal."]


    [Snezhnaya would no longer pursue the matter of the Doctor, Lady, or Scaramouche''s actions, but you had to contain the spread of the spores. You epted the deal.]


    [Age 543: Snezhnaya publicly dered that a devastating gue had ravaged the nation, killing over 70% of the poption. The Tsaritsa had exhausted her divine power in trying to contain the gue and went into seclusion. The Harlequin assumed temporary leadership of the Fatui.]


    [This great "cmity" forced other nations to abandon any ns to hold Snezhnaya ountable, including the issue of Scaramouche and the Gnosis. Everything was swept under the rug.]


    [Snezhnaya''s national power plummeted from being the strongest of the Seven Nations, leaving it in a weakened state. The Gnosis Collection n had to be postponed indefinitely.]


    [You, Scaramouche, and Lady retired to a vineyard in Sumeru, changing your names and living in seclusion. You spent your days leisurely, asionally helping nearby vigers with minor medical issues.]


    [Since Sumeru didn''t prohibit polygamy, your three-person household didn''t raise any suspicions. However, Scaramouche and Rosalyn continued to butt heads, leaving you stuck in the middle of their frequent conflicts.]


    [Their disputes escted, especially at night, when things became even more intense... though the only one left utterly exhausted was you.]


    [Age 544: One day, you encountered a golden-haired girl with an unusual emergency foodpanion. She seemed to be searching for her brother.]


    [Age 545: You adopted a few children.]


    [Age 546: You established a trade partnership with Mondstadt''s Dawn Winery.]


    ...


    [Age 570: The children you adopted grew up to be prominent figures in various fields in Sumeru.]


    ...


    [Age 580: Rosalyn passed away peacefully after the fire within her finally burned out.]


    ...


    [Age 584: Scaramouche passed away, and when she died, the Gnosis emerged from her body. You discreetly returned it to Inazuma.]


    ...


    -----


    Author''s Note: Happy Ending?

 Chapter 32: Villain Simulator, Ch 32

    <h4>Chapter 32: Viin Simtor, Ch 32</h4>


    [Year 601: You passed away peacefully with no remaining attachments. Though you never had children, your funeral was filled with people who had benefited from your kindness throughout your life. They probably wouldn''t believe that the elderly man lying in the coffin with a smile was once a viin who desecrated corpses, destroyed nations, and killed god.]


    [This life simtion has ended.]


    [Cause of death: Died of old age.]


    [Overall evaluation: Peaceful demise.]


    [Your rewards have been sent and are avable for viewing at any time.]


    As this long journey finally came to an end, Lucas felt a mix of emotions, unable to calm his heart.


    Unlike his previous two simtions, this time, it felt like he had genuinely lived for 600 years.


    "So, this time, I ended my life as a good person?" Lucas mused. "Isn''t this supposed to be the Viin Simtor?"


    [There are plenty of viins in this world who die peacefully. That is the true nature of the Viin Simtor.]


    The system gave its answer.


    And it made sense¡ªthis was a "Viin Simtor," not a "Tragic End Simtor."


    Perhaps because Lucas had died so suddenly in the first two simtions, dying of old age this time felt a bit strange.


    [Please choose one of the following three talents to keep as a permanent talent: "Medical Sage," "Die of Old Age," or "Old but Vigorous."]


    Was there really any choice here? Of course, it had to be [Medical Sage]¡ªnot only was it a golden talent, but the other two would only be useful in the real world 30 or 40 yearster.


    [You''ve acquired the permanent talent "Medical Sage (Gold)."]


    [Medical Sage (Gold): You possess an exceptionally powerful talent in medicine, destined to use your knowledge to change the course of history.]


    After selecting the permanent reward, Lucas casually checked the system inventory, curious to see how many rewards this simtion had yielded.


    Typically, rewards were based on achievements and how long you survived in the simtion. After living for 600 years, the rewards should be substantial.


    [This simtion''s rewards: A-rank loot box ¡Á3, S-rank loot box ¡Á1, Gold-tier talent ¡Á1.]


    In addition to loot boxes, there was even a talent reward?


    And not just any talent¡ªanother golden talent!


    Two golden talents from one simtion. This was a jackpot! Combined with the loot boxes, this simtion''s rewards were six to seven times more valuable than the previous one.


    [Dendro Archon''s Gene (Gold)]


    [Effect: The gene of the Dendro God takes root in your body, granting you the ability to wield the purest Dendro Elemental power. As your strength grows, your elemental power will increase.]


    So, it was the Dendro Archon''s gene from the simtion?


    Based on the description, it seemed like Lucas couldn''t yet wield the overwhelming power he had in the simtion.


    Out of curiosity, Lucas reached toward a decorative potted nt nearby and concentrated. "Grow!"


    In Teyvat, only those with a Vision could manipte elemental power. For those blessed with a Vision, using elemental energy was as natural as walking or eating.


    Lucas could feel the elemental power coursing through his body, but he wasn''t sure how to control it. The nt in the pot only swayed slightly¡ªwhether in response to his elemental power or simply to a passing breeze, he couldn''t tell.


    "Well..." Feeling embarrassed as people around him gave him strange looks, Lucas lowered his hand and blushed. "Looks like I need more practice."


    But just then, Master Mao, who had just entered the backyard to gather ingredients, was startled.


    The sapling he had nted in the yard only a month ago had somehow grown into a massive tree, several stories tall, thick enough for two people to wrap their arms around.


    "Holy moly, looks like that fertilizer I bought really worked wonders!" Master Mao eximed. "What was it called again... something like Golden Fertilizer?"


    ...


    Of course, Lucas had no idea that his elemental power had merely targeted the wrong nt.


    Now it was time to open the loot boxes.


    [Opened A-rank loot box. Talent acquired: "A Knight Never Fights Barehanded."]


    [A Knight Never Fights Barehanded (Purple)]


    [Effect: You can treat any object in your hand as a weapon, imbuing it with special properties.]


    [Description: Even a mop with dung on it bes a mighty weapon in your hands.]


    A purple talent from an A-rank loot box, huh?


    Not bad, though the description was a bit... odd. Lancelot would probably want to hit someone for this.


    [Opened A-rank loot box. Equipment acquired: "Mask of Disguise."]


    [Mask of Disguise]


    [Effect: When worn, this mask allows you to take on the appearance of any individual you''ve seen (you can only transform into someone you''ve encountered).]


    [Description: If you''re nning on impersonating someone''s significant other, make sure to take precautions.]


    A transformation mask? If it weren''t for that suggestive description, he wouldn''t have even thought of using it like that...


    [Opened A-rank loot box. Equipment acquired: "Nano Battle Suit (Youth Edition)."]


    [Nano Battle Suit (Youth Edition)]


    [Effect: A nanosuit that can be equipped and repaired at the molecr level, enhancing the user''s physical abilities. Its appearance can change based on the user''s preferences.]


    [Description: The "Youth Edition" just sounds better. It''s actually the cheap version.]


    Then just call it the cheap version! Damn it!


    Still, Lucas was interested in this reward. After all, who wouldn''t want a superhero suit? Maybe he could be like the mysterious Darknight Hero over in Mondstadt.


    [Opened S-rank loot box. Talent acquired: "Lord of the Undead."]


    [Lord of the Undead (Gold)]


    [Effect: All undead creatures will have a favorable impression of you, and you canmand undead creatures weaker than yourself.]


    [Description: Please refrain from doing anything weird to corpses.]


    Another talent?


    And it seemed rted to his experiences in the simtion.


    The only downside... there didn''t seem to be any undead creatures in Teyvat¡ªno skeleton soldiers or zombies. This was a 12+ game, after all. Including anything scary would probably lead toints from parents.


    While it was a golden talent, it felt somewhat useless.


    Wait, would the little zombie Qiqi count as undead?


    After opening the four loot boxes, the rewards were decent, though they didn''t seem to provide any immediate power boosts.


    Or was this part of the system''s design?


    ...


    "Customer, thanks for waiting!"


    At that moment, Xiangling cheerfully brought the food to the table with a grin. "Here''s a special dish of mine¡ªSpicy Slime. It''s aplimentary dish for new customers. Enjoy!"


    Lucas looked down at the Slime on the te. The Slime looked back at Lucas. The air between them grew awkward.


    Was this... really edible?


    Just as Lucas was about to dig in, a loud, rough voice boomed from a nearby table.


    "Hey, lil'' sis! You think you can just ignore me, Brother Hu? It''s your honor that I''m asking you to share a meal! Don''t you go giving me the cold shoulder!"


    Lucas looked up and saw arge, bald man standing at a nearby table. And sitting at the table was a silver-haired girl who looked rather familiar...


    Wait, wasn''t that Shenhe?


    Although Lucas had never met Shenhe in real life, they had shared numerous "close interactions" during the simtions.


    Lucas knew every detail about her, including the location of her moles, so naturally, he recognized her instantly.


    However, despite his excitement, he quickly reminded himself that this was the real world, where he and Shenhe had no connection whatsoever.


    At the moment, she seemed to be in a bit of trouble.


    Standing in front of her was a man calling himself "Brother Hu," a burly thug covered in tattoos. He was clearly one of the local ruffians, and twockeys stood by his side.


    Brother Hu''s gaze held an obvious malice, likely attracted by Shenhe''s beauty, leading him to harass her.


    However, Shenhe''s expression remainedpletely calm. She reached for a booklet at her waist¡ªit was none other than "Cloud Retainer''s Guide to Polite Conversation."


    Frowning slightly, Shenhe began flipping through the pages. After reading a few, she nodded and muttered to herself, "Hmm... Master wrote that when a stranger offers to buy me a meal, I should respond like this..."


    "Hey! I''m talking to you! Can''t you hear me?" Brother Hu, growing impatient, raised his voice.


    Shenhe cleared her throat and recited, word for word: "Who do you think you are? Take a look at yourself in the mirror. Do you really think you''re worthy of inviting me to dinner?"


    Brother Hu''s face immediately darkened. The veins on his forehead bulged as he shouted, "You damn woman! Are you mocking me?!"


    At that, Shenhe squinted at the booklet again and read aloud, "Angry, are we?"


    "You¡ª!"


    Brother Hu, enraged, raised his hand to strike Shenhe, but before he could react, there was a soft "crack" sound. He felt a sharp pain shoot through his fingers and looked up to find that one of them had been snapped cleanly, bent at an unnatural angle.


    Then, pain shot through his lower back and buttocks. With two swift "thuds," two strange cylindrical objects fell to the ground¡ªobviously thrown at him.


    Brother Hu looked around, scanning the restaurant. The patrons, initially interested in the scene, quickly turned away to avoid trouble with the thug.


    "Damn it! You wanna y dirty, huh?" Despite knowing the person who struck him was powerful, Brother Hu tried to maintain his bravado. "You just wait! I''ll be at Tiger Rock Street, and if I catch you, you''re dead meat!"


    Clutching his injured rear, he limped out of the restaurant with the help of his twockeys, grimacing in pain.


    "Those guys are notorious bullies from Tiger Rock Street. I wonder which expert stepped in to teach them a lesson," Xiangling, who hadn''t left yet, gave Lucas a cheerful smile. "If I find out who it was, I''ll treat them to one of my special dishes!"


    Lucas could only smile in response, staying silent.


    He wasn''t one for drawing attention, and besides, who knew what kind of bizarre "special dish" Xiangling might serve?


    Of course, it was Lucas who used his M1911 pistol, loaded with rubber bullets he had redeemed using his points.


    After all, causing a death in the bustling streets of Liyue Harbor would have caused a lot of unnecessary trouble.


    [You have earned 500 Virtue Points!]


    As expected, a ssic act of "saving the damsel in distress" immediately earned him some points.


    As for Shenhe, Lucas briefly considered approaching her but decided against it. The bond they shared in the simtor should stay there.


    Besides, seeing how cold and distant Shenhe seemed, if he tried to strike up a conversation now, he''d likely end up with the same fate as that "Brother Hu."


    However, Lucas wasn''t aware that Shenhe had already cast her gaze toward him.


    Though her face showed no expression, her mind was in turmoil.


    How was this possible?


    The man sitting there wasn''t just anyone¡ªhe was the same man who had appeared in her dreams, threatening her with Chongyun''s safety, forcing her into unspeakable acts, and attempting to deceive her.


    There was no mistake!


    Even if the age was slightly different, his face, his demeanor, even the smallest gestures were identical to the man from her dreams!


    It couldn''t be a coincidence¡ªthere had to be a connection between this man and the viin from her nightmares.


    Moreover, the person who had just helped her by throwing those projectiles... seemed to be him as well.


    Could it be... that he knew who she was?


    The thought made Shenhe''s cheeks flush slightly.


    If he did know her, then he might also be aware of what happened in the dreams...


    There was no way she could just walk up and ask him directly if he recognized her. For now, all she could do was wait and observe, hoping for the right moment to find out more.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Well some interactions and misunderstandings with one of my fav character Shenhe ??

 Chapter 33: Villain Simulator, Ch 33

    <h4>Chapter 33: Viin Simtor, Ch 33</h4>


    When it came tobat and exorcising demons, Shenhe was certainly confident, but having spent years training in seclusion, she wasn''t very skilled at interacting with people.


    Luckily, she had the booklet her master had left her. With its help, she was sure she could figure out what was really going on with that man.


    Perhaps due to her preupied thoughts or her usual diet of nd food, the delicious dishes on the table seemed tasteless to Shenhe. She kept a close eye on Lucas''s every move, waiting until he finished eating and left the restaurant. She stood up immediately, ready to follow him secretly.


    "Excuse me..." Just then, Xiangling suddenly blocked her path, looking a bit embarrassed. "Could you wait a moment?"


    "Is there something you need?" Shenhe asked coldly.


    Although her beauty was undeniable, she was as cold as ice. Moreover, with her destined fate of Lone Cmity Star, she often exuded an aura of foreboding that could be quite intimidating.


    Poor Xiangling was so scared she almost burst into tears, nervously stammering, "Y-you haven''t paid your bill yet."


    "My... apologies..." Shenhe finally realized her mistake, quickly taking out some Mora and stuffing it into Xiangling''s hands. "Is this enough?"


    "It''s... it''s too much..." Xiangling quickly replied.


    "Doesn''t matter. You can keep it all!" Shenhe brushed past Xiangling and hurried outside.


    Shenhe''s full attention was focused on Lucas, and she failed to notice that as she stepped out of the restaurant, several unfriendly eyes were already following her.


    ....


    "Man, the food at Wanmin Restaurant is really top-notch," Lucas muttered as he turned into an alley, taking a shortcut. "I should head back and report in."


    "Hold on."


    A slender, snow-white arm suddenly stretched out, cing a hand on his shoulder. "I have some questions for you."


    Lucas instantly recognized the voice¡ªit was Shenhe''s, a voice he had heard countless times in the simtion.


    But unlike now, it was usually him standing behind Shenhe, speaking while... "assisting" her.


    Startled for a moment, Lucas quickly regained hisposure, turning around with a calm smile. "Oh? Youngdy, I don''t believe we''ve met. What can I do for you?"


    Despite his polite words, when Lucas turned and saw the girl before him, his eyes couldn''t help but reveal a flicker of something... familiar.


    Shenhe was wearing a form-fitting ck silk outfit that highlighted her nearly unfairly perfect figure. Her abdomen, toned from years of training, showed the clear lines of muscle, and her upper garment, embroidered with delicate golden threads, strained to cover her full chest, giving the impression it might burst at any moment.


    A red string wound from her shoulder des around her neck, adding a touch of sensuality to her icy demeanor.


    Although only her smooth, snow-white shoulders were exposed, she exuded an irresistible allure.


    ''Yes! That gaze!''


    Even though Lucas''s nce at her body had onlysted a moment, Shenhe was all too familiar with the desire in his eyes.


    It was the same lustful look that wanted to devour her whole, leaving nothing behind.


    However, a single nce wasn''t enough to confirm whether this man had any connection to the viin from her dreams. Keeping her emotions in check, Shenhe said coldly, "Thank you for helping out at the restaurant earlier."


    As she spoke, Shenhe took out a rubber bullet and furrowed her brow. "This concealed weapon is blunt, soft, andcking sharpness. If it had been a plum blossom dart or a flying stone, that scoundrel would likely be dead by now."


    While the continent of Teyvat had long-range weapons like guns, they typically used elemental ammunition and wererge and noticeable.


    What Lucas had used, his M1911 pistol, was fundamentally different. So, it was no surprise that Shenhe mistook it for a concealed weapon.


    Still, the fact that this object could break bone? The person who wielded it was definitely formidable.


    "Just helping where I can, nothing to thank me for," Lucas replied,ughing awkwardly when he realized Shenhe had noticed something unusual. "That thug was rude, but he didn''t deserve death. A light punishment was enough."


    Strange...


    Shenhe couldn''t help but feel suspicious. In her dream, this man had been a ruthless, cunning viin,pletely different from the mild-mannered person standing before her.


    Could she have been mistaken? Or was he simply putting on an act?


    "You thought you could escape me?"


    Suddenly, a familiar angry voice came from behind. Brother Hu had returned, bringing with him the twockeys from earlier and a squat, bald man with beady eyes.


    "Knife Brother, that''s the guy who blindsided me!" Brother Hu pointed at Lucas, adding dramatically, "He wasn''t just hitting me¡ªhe was pping your face!"


    Despite his unremarkable appearance, Knife Brother carried himself with a steady air, and hanging at his waist was none other than a bright red Vision!


    Lucas couldn''t help but grumble internally. How does a guy like this get a Vision?


    "You''re done for! Knife Brother is a big deal around Tiger Rock Street!" Brother Hu smirked, his face scrunched up in fury. "You''re gonna get what''sing to you!"


    As Lucas pondered how to handle the situation, he suddenly felt something soft. He turned and saw that Shenhe had wrapped her arm around his, holding that strange booklet in her other hand. Without expression, she read aloud, "He''s my man. You dare touch him, and you''ll answer to me!"


    Is she reading from that booklet again?


    Lucas was speechless. What kind of weird stuff did that booklet teach her?


    In truth, with Shenhe''s strength, these thugs were no more than pests. She was only acting this way to gauge Lucas''s reaction.


    "Hu, we could take them down, no problem, but we should avoid unnecessary conflict," Knife Brother said, squinting his eyes until they were nearly invisible. "How about this¡ªpay us 500,000 Mora for medical expenses, and I''ll let you go."


    "But..." Lucas responded calmly, "What if I don''t pay?"


    "You''re asking for it!" Brother Hu yelled furiously. "Knife Brother, teach him a lesson!"


    "So be it! I''ll show you the power of a Vision!" Knife Brother raised his hand, puffed out his cheeks, and spat out a stream of mes toward Lucas.


    It was clearly meant to mimic a Pyro Vision skill.


    But Lucas only smirked, walking through the mes to grab Knife Brother by the wrist, making him yelp in pain. A small stic device slipped from Knife Brother''s hand, which Lucas caught with ease.


    "Did you think I''d fall for this?" Lucas toyed with the stic device,ughing. "A cheap Sumeru fire starter, along with some high-proof alcohol¡ªgreat for street performances, but trying to pass it off as a Vision? That''s just sad."


    Indeed, the fire trick was nothing but a cheap stunt. While it wouldn''t fool anyone in Lucas''s time, in the less technologically advanced Liyue, it could still deceive plenty of people.


    Realizing his trick had been exposed, Knife Brother turned pale, pleading, "B-brother, we''re just trying to make a living... Please, have mercy."


    "Mercy? Sure. I''m not a bad guy." Lucas smiled coldly before shoving the fire starter into Knife Brother''s mouth. "Just chew it up, and I''ll let you go."


    Knife Brother knew full well what chewing the device would do, but for some reason, the man before him seemedpletely different now¡ªhis aura was darker, more menacing. That glint in his eyes... no one without blood on their hands could possess such a gaze.


    Without hesitation, Knife Brother closed his eyes and bit down hard. With a loud "pop," the fire starter exploded, taking a few of his teeth with it.


    "Hmph..." Lucas finally let go,ughing as he said, "Now scram."


    As he watched the thugs stumble away in fear, a satisfied grin crept across Lucas''s face. At the same time, the system''s voice echoed in his mind:


    [How does it feel to embrace the dark side? Isn''t it nice?]


    The system''s voice instantly caused Lucas''s smile to freeze on his face.


    That''s right¡ªwhy was he feeling a sense of joy from doing something bad?


    Not only that, but deep down, Lucas had genuinely felt a murderous urge when facing Knife Brother. If the man had resisted even a little, he might have crushed his throat without hesitation.


    After all, in the simtor''s immersive mode, the Lucas who had destroyed Mondstadt, invaded Nan, and corrupted Snezhnaya had taken countless lives. Killing a petty thug was no more significant to him than squashing an ant.


    Cold sweat began to drip down Lucas''s forehead.


    When had he be like this?


    Could it really be, as the system suggested, that he was slowly and subtly bing an evil person, influenced by the simtor?


    Lucas wasn''t the only one who noticed something odd. Even Shenhe, standing behind him, felt a moment of surprise from the scene she had just witnessed.


    Though brief, both the man in front of her and the viin from her dreams exuded the same familiar aura¡ªa menacing wickedness.


    "P-please don''t misunderstand!" Lucas quickly tried to exin. "I... I was just scaring them a little. I didn''t think he''d actually..."


    "What''s the problem?" Shenhe replied calmly. "For such despicable scoundrels, this is the proper way to deal with them."


    To Lucas''s surprise, Shenhe didn''t find his behavior problematic at all. She casually opened the notebook she had been carrying, flipping to thest page, and mumbled to herself while making a note, "Taught two viins a lesson... that leaves... hmm, ny-seven... no, ny-eight more."


    "What are you talking about?" Lucas asked, puzzled.


    Shenhe was referring to the tasks her master, Cloud Retainer, had given her before she left the mountains: defeat one hundred demons, teach one hundred viins a lesson, and perform one hundred good deeds.


    "Nothing important," Shenhe replied nonchntly. "Just a mission from my master."


    "Master?" Lucas''s eyes widened in surprise.


    Whoa, she''s really into this role-ying thing!


    "N-no, I misspoke!" Shenhe''s face flushed slightly as she quickly corrected herself. "I meant my teacher! I''ve spent most of my life in the mountains, and now I''vee down to the city for training, following the tasks my teacher set for me."


    Due to her experiences in the simtor, where she had been coerced by Lucas to call him "master", the word had slipped out naturally when she saw him. After all, in the simtor, Lucas had indeed acted as her "master", often assigning her various "little tasks."


    "I see..." Lucas nodded. "While Liyue is mostly a peaceful ce, there are still people with ill intentions. Miss Shenhe, since you''re unfamiliar with the world, it''s best to stay cautious."


    "Wait a minute!" Shenhe suddenly narrowed her eyes and asked, "How do you know... my name?"


    Crap!


    Lucas''s heart skipped a beat. He had unconsciously called out her name.


    "Be... because..." Suddenly, an idea shed through his mind. Pointing at the book in Shenhe''s hand, he said, "I saw your name written on the back of that book."


    Shenhe flipped the book over, and indeed, there it was, neatly inscribed: "A Gift from Cloud Retainer to Her Disciple Shenhe."


    For some reason, seeing those words gave Shenhe an inexplicable sense of disappointment. For a brief moment, she had nearly confirmed the man''s identity.


    "But calling someone by name without an introduction might be considered impolite," Lucas said,ughing awkwardly. "Nice to meet you. My name is Lucas."


    Lucas!


    Upon hearing those three words, Shenhe felt as though lightning had struck her. She instinctively clenched her fists but quickly rxed them. Her lips, once tightly pressed, softened into a slight smile.


    This was destiny presenting her with an opportunity!


    As someone born under the fate of "Lone Cmity Star," Shenhe believed more than anyone in the concept of destiny. Those dreams she had experienced were likely premonitions, guiding her to punish this viin! Now, all she needed to do was catch himmitting some evil act, and then she could bring him to justice!


    Lucas, of course, had no idea why Shenhe was suddenly giving him such an odd smile. Feeling a bit awkward, he said, "Well, if there''s nothing else, I''ll be on my way..."


    "W-wait a moment!" Shenhe instinctively grabbed his wrist and said, "Mr. Lucas, could you help me with one more small favor?"


    Lucas was naturally a helpful person, and this was Shenhe asking, after all, so he nodded. "Of course. What do you need?"


    [You''ve earned 500 Virtue Points!]


    Besides, doing good deeds earned points!


    "I just arrived in the city and don''t have a ce to stay. I was hoping to rent a house in Liyue," Shenhe quickly came up with an excuse. "Could you help me find one?"


    This request seemed reasonable enough. Given Shenhe''s apparentck of worldly experience, she didn''t seem like someone who could haggle over prices. In Liyue, where most people were skilled merchants, she might be taken advantage of.


    "No problem. There''s a real estate agency nearby," Lucas replied, leading the way. "Follow me."


    In Liyue Harbor, wherend was precious, property prices were sky-high. Many young people couldn''t afford to buy homes, so the rental market was booming.


    Inside the agency:


    "Wee!" the real estate agent greeted them warmly. "What kind of service can I offer you?"


    "We''re looking to rent a ce." Lucas answered.


    "Of course, of course!" The agent nced at Lucas and Shenhe, smiling meaningfully. "We have many lovely homes perfect for couples. Take a look at this one, with a luxurious bath! And this one, this bed even has a vibration feature..."


    "Ahem!" Lucas''s face turned red with embarrassment. "You''ve got it wrong. We''re not a couple. Just a single room will do."


    "My apologies," the agent said, slightly embarrassed. "Do you have any specific requirements?"


    "The requirements are simple," Shenhe suddenly spoke up. "The living room needs to be spacious, and there should be arge desk and a sofa..."


    "Uh..." The agent was puzzled. "Are you looking for an office?"


    Shenhe had described theyout of Lucas''s student council office from her memory.


    "What I n to do with it is none of your business," Shenhe said coldly. "Just tell me if you have something that fits."


    "Well, we do have ces like that, but..." The agent rubbed his fingers together suggestively. "They''ll be more expensive than a regr single room."


    ...


    Author''s Note: More Shenhe interactions!!!


    We''ve reached 800 ps and dont worry the 2 extra Chapters will be uploaded on weekend! Cmon lets go above 1k and you get more Chapters!!

 Chapter 34: Villain Simulator, Ch 34

    <h4>Chapter 34: Viin Simtor, Ch 34</h4>


    "How much?" Shenhe frowned slightly.


    The agent pulled out a form and said, "The rent is 100,000 Mora per month, with a deposit of one month and three months'' rent in advance."


    "100,000 Mora?" Shenhe''s eyes widened in surprise. "That''s..."


    "I know, it''s a bit expensive," the agent shrugged. "That''s why renting a regr house is a more economical option."


    "Too cheap," Shenhe finished her sentence aloud, "If it''s that cheap, there''s no need to rent it at all. I might as well just buy it."


    "Are you serious, Miss Shenhe?" Lucas asked awkwardly. "Buying a house is something that should be carefully considered."


    Shenhe responded calmly, "It''s fine. Before I left the mountains, my master told me that wealth is just an external possession. If it needs to be spent, don''t hesitate."


    "May I ask, how much of these ''external possessions'' did your master give you?" Lucas asked, swallowing nervously.


    "I didn''t count exactly," Shenhe said nonchntly. "Probably several tens of millions."


    Lucas: "..."


    Indeed, Shenhe''s master, Cloud Retainer, was one of Liyue''s ancient immortals and likely possessed a vast collection of valuable treasures. And being an old friend of Morax, Liyue''s Archon of Geo, she would certainly neverck Mora.


    After a brief negotiation, Shenhe directly bought the office.


    The location wasn''t too far, and due to Shenhe''s "enthusiastic invitation," Lucas had no choice but to apany her there.


    For some reason, as soon as they entered therge office, Lucas felt a strange sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu, especially seeing the spacious ebony desk in the center of the room. It stirred up many memories for him.


    After all, this had once been one of the workces he shared with Shenhe.


    Sometimes, while Lucas handled paperwork, Shenhe would silently do her own tasks at her station, helping to relieve his stress.


    However, this office didn''t have a privacy screen under the desk, which might be inconvenient...


    Wait!


    Why was he thinking about such inappropriate things again?!


    Lucas quickly shook his head to clear it and casually asked, "This office is pretty big, but there''s no bed. Miss Shenhe, where do you n to sleep?"


    "Where to sleep?" Shenhe sat directly on top of the desk, her long legs swinging slightly. Her eyes, not hidden by her bangs, stared straight at Lucas. "This desk is quite spacious. It should be fine to use it as a bed."


    "Sleeping on a desk?" Lucas was puzzled. "Wouldn''t it be a bit... too hard?"


    "No worries, I actually prefer it harder," Shenhe said, patting the solid ebony surface. "It''s morefortable to sleep on."


    These words didn''te from Cloud Retainer''s handbook but were lines Shenhe had thought up, based on her memories from the dreams.


    In the dreams, Lucas was a hypocrite who appeared gentlemanly but was secretly a beast. Faced with her provocations now, how could he remain unmoved?


    As long as he showed any inappropriate intentions, she would immediately subdue him!


    "Miss Shenhe..." Lucas stepped forward, closing the distance between them.


    Gulp...


    Seeing the familiar face in front of her, Shenhe suddenly felt a sense of nervousness.


    Was it happening now?


    Logically, she should feel angry, but for some reason, there was a strange hint of anticipation in her heart.


    No, no!


    What I''m looking forward to is bringing this viin to justice, not anything else!


    Without saying a word, Lucas reached out, cing his hand on Shenhe''s back.


    The warmth and roughness of his palm made Shenhe''s body tremble slightly.


    Countless scenes from her dreams shed through Shenhe''s mind, each one vivid despite being mere dreams.


    Finally, you''re revealing your true nature!


    But to her surprise, Lucas suddenly squeezed her shoulder and said seriously, "Miss Shenhe, sleeping on hard surfaces for too long is bad for your health, especially your spine. I just checked, and your spine is already a bit misaligned. Have you been feeling asional pain in your vertebrae?"


    Thanks to his newly acquired [Medical Sage] talent and the knowledge and experience gained in the simtor, Lucas had be quite the skilled physician. Such minor issues were easily apparent to him.


    "I... I have felt a bit of pain recently..." Shenhe said, her expression turning nk.


    Wait... This wasn''t how things were supposed to go.


    Shouldn''t he have taken the opportunity to embrace me, and then...


    "Good thing you met me!" Lucas''s healer instincts kicked in, and he smiled. "Lie down, and I''ll give you a quick massage to relieve your symptoms."


    "W-wait, I..."


    ...


    Half an hourter.


    Shenhey on the desk, her face full of satisfaction.


    This felt... too good!


    After spending so long in the mountains training under Cloud Retainer, Shenhe had lived a spartan life¡ªeating nd food and sleeping on cold, hard stone beds. Massage, something as indulgent as this, waspletely foreign to her.


    Now, she felt as if her muscles had been unlocked, her entire body reborn.


    [You''ve earned 1000 Virtue Points!]


    Lucas cracked his knuckles and said, "You should really buy a proper bed. I don''t know what kind of life you''ve been living, but every now and then... you should be kind to yourself."


    ''Be kind to myself?''


    Shenhe pondered over these words. Indeed, she had always been overly harsh with herself, even believing that any form of enjoyment was a sin.


    Moreover, throughout the massage, Lucas''s hands had been very professional¡ªhe didn''t take advantage of her in any way.


    Could it be that she had misunderstood all along? Was this man simply someone who coincidentally looked and acted like the viin from her dreams, but was actually a good person?


    While Shenhe was lost in thought, Lucas''s gaze unconsciously drifted to her figure sprawled on the desk.


    This scene was so familiar.


    And in his eyes, a glint of desire flickered uncontrobly.


    [What are you waiting for? Don''t hold back¡ªdo what you really want...]


    The system''s voice whispered, like a devil tempting him to release his true nature.


    At that very moment, Shenhe turned her head, catching sight of Lucas''s eyes, which were as deep and dark as abyss.


    That deep, longing gaze and expression¡ªalready etched into Shenhe''s very soul.


    A person''s actions, words, and even personality can be disguised. But instincts, they can never be hidden.


    It''s him! It''s him! It has to be him!


    Shenhe leaped off the desk as if she had been shocked by electricity, her expression tense. "You... are you alright?"


    Lucas snapped back to reality, feeling a wave of intense heat rush through him as he looked at Shenhe.


    The feeling was disturbingly simr to the one he had experienced earlier when bullying those two thugs in the alley. Both times, he had failed to control his dark thoughts. If Shenhe hadn''t suddenly spoken up... the consequences would have been unimaginable.


    "Sorry, I... I''m not feeling too well..." Lucas, overwhelmed by the heat, quickly took off his jacket and ced it to the side, wiping the sweat from his brow. "I''ll borrow the restroom for a moment."


    Without daring to meet Shenhe''s eyes again, he hurriedly turned and headed to the bathroom.


    Sshing water onto his face at the sink, the cold sensation helped to cool the burning heat within him.


    But as he lifted his head, he was startled to see the reflection in the mirror. Though it looked just like him, the man staring back was filled with malice, wearing a wicked grin.


    "Who... who are you?" Lucas muttered.


    "I am you," the reflection replied. "The real you¡ªthe evil within. Admit it, your so-called kindness is nothing but a pitiful fa?ade. Only throughmitting evil can you feel true satisfaction and joy."


    "Shut up!"


    In a burst of anger, Lucas punched the mirror, shattering the ss. The sinister reflection disappeared along with the fragments.


    Everything returned to silence.


    His fist, sliced by the broken ss, bled briefly before healing at a rapid rate, thanks to his [Regenerative Factor] ability.


    It was as though the whole ordeal had been a nightmare.


    "What just happened, Xiao Xi?" Lucas asked, breathing heavily. "Was that... another one of your tricks?"


    [This system does not interfere with the host. Its purpose is to test whether the host can maintain their moralpass after experiencing a life of evil.]


    "So, that was... my own dark thoughts?" Lucas murmured. "Could I really have been influenced by the simtor?"


    [Unfortunately, this system cannot provide an exnation for that.]


    "So, if I fail this test," Lucas asked anxiously, "if I truly fall to my dark thoughts, what will happen to me?"


    [Every life you live within the simtor serves as a reference.]


    Of course, if the real-world Lucas were to sumb to evil, bing a true viin, it would essentially be a live-action version of the [Viin Simtor]¡ªexcept this time, instead of starting with just three talents, he had amassed numerous powerful rewards.


    If he truly became a viin, the havoc he could wreak would be far worse than what the "Doctor" version of himself had caused in the simtor.


    No. He couldn''t let that happen.


    Taking a deep breath, Lucas muttered to himself, "I absolutely... won''t lose to my dark side."


    ...


    Rewind to a few minutes earlier.


    Watching Lucas rush into the restroom, Shenhe''s suspicions hadn''t faded in the slightest.


    Could he be trying to hide something?


    Ever since meeting Lucas, Shenhe''s suspicions had been fluctuating wildly. Each time she thought he was a viin, he would do something good. But when she started to think he was a good person, he would show traces of malice and wickedness.


    This constant back-and-forth had left the sheltered Shenhe thoroughly confused.


    At that moment, her gaze fell on the jacket Lucas had left on the desk.


    Maybe she could find some clues in his personal belongings.


    Yes, if he truly was a viin, he might be carrying something incriminating.


    Lacking muchmon knowledge about human interactions, Shenhe didn''t realize that rummaging through someone''s things was considered highly impolite. After all, in her mind, she was only doing this to punish a potential evildoer.


    "Let''s see..." Shenhe muttered as she began searching through the jacket.


    "A few Mora... not much." To Shenhe, who had ess to vast wealth, Lucas''s amount of money seemed pitifully small.


    "And this lump of iron... some kind of mechanism?" She put aside the M1911 pistol, not recognizing what it was.


    Then her fingers brushed against a piece of paper.


    "A picture..." Shenhe murmured, pulling out a photograph. "My master mentioned these are called photos."


    But when she saw the image, Shenhe''s pupils dted in shock.


    In the photo, Lucas was intimately embracing a beautiful blue-haired woman. The closeness of their rtionship was unmistakable.


    Not only that, but the woman''s beauty and grace were extraordinary, to the point that even Shenhe, who was confident in her own appearance, felt a twinge of inferiority.


    This woman... Could she be Lucas''s lover?


    Otherwise, why would they be so close, and why would he carry this photo so close to his heart?


    ------


    Author''s Note: Evil Lucas irl? ??

 Chapter 35: Villain Simulator, Ch 35

    <h4>Chapter 35: Viin Simtor, Ch 35</h4>


    No wonder Lucas hadn''t reacted at all to her subtle actions earlier. Of course, with apanion like that, how could any other woman catch his eye?


    For some reason, as Shenhe thought of this, a bitter feeling welled up deep inside her.


    Strange, why did she feel so upset?


    But soon, that bitterness was reced by surprise.


    She noticed that the blue-haired woman in the photograph had ck and red horns, and the style of her clothing was also quite simr to her own¡ªlikely crafted by Cloud Retainer herself.


    Horns like a qilin, wearing frost and dew, with unparalleled beauty...


    There couldn''t be anyone else in Liyue Harbor who fit these characteristics.


    "Lucas''spanion..." Shenhe muttered to herself, "is Senior Sister Ganyu?"


    Though Shenhe had never met Ganyu personally, Cloud Retainer had often mentioned her. Shenhe wasn''t worldly, but she wasn''t foolish either. Connecting the clues, it wasn''t difficult to deduce Ganyu''s identity.


    "Sorry for the wait."


    Just then, the bathroom door swung open.


    Oh no!


    Shenhe panicked, quickly cing the photo down and grabbing the M1911 she had tossed aside earlier, pretending to inspect it out of curiosity.


    Her posture resembled that of a student caught off guard by a question in ss, as if she were about to say, "Wow, this iron lump sure is... iron."


    But when Lucas saw her, his gentle demeanor vanished, and he shouted, "Don''t move!"


    Startled by his sudden outburst, Shenhe dropped the M1911, and it ttered to the floor.


    Lucas lunged forward, catching the gun mid-air, and only after ensuring the safety was still engaged did he let out a sigh of relief.


    The reason for his reaction wasn''t anger at Shenhe for messing with his belongings, but fear that she might identally harm herself.


    No matter how strong she was, a firearm at such close range was dangerous.


    "Why did you touch my stuff?" Lucas scolded instinctively.


    "I... I..." Shenhe, flustered by his anger, felt a pang of hurt. Her face flushed red as she struggled to respond, looking both aggrieved and confused. "I was just curious."


    Seeing her expression, Lucas realized his tone had been too harsh, and he softened it. "This thing is dangerous. You shouldn''t handle it carelessly."


    "If something broke, I''d pay for it," Shenhe muttered with a pout, her lips trembling. "My master gave me plenty of Mora anyway."


    "It''s not about the money," Lucas said, his tone serious. "Taking something without permission is theft. If you had done this with someone else''s belongings, they might have reported you as a thief."


    "A thief?" Shenhe''s face darkened. "Is it really that serious?"


    Shenhe had never considered these things before. Her mission upon descending from the mountains was to punish evildoers, but now she herself hadmitted a petty crime. If her master found out, the consequences would be unimaginable.


    Cloud Retainer had sternly warned that her disciples must nevermit crimes. The punishment ranged from ten years of solitary confinement to being stripped of their powers and expelled from the sect.


    "Yes," Lucas casually added, "You wouldn''t want your master finding out that you''ve be a thief, would you?"


    That sentence... it sounded so familiar.


    Of course, in the dream, this man had used the same threat to ckmail her, leveraging Chongyun to control her!


    It had to be him. They were the same person!


    Shenhe assumed Lucas was using the same trick to threaten her now, just like in the dream.


    So, that''s it.


    Leaving the coat out was bait to lure her into making a mistake.


    This man wasn''t just as wicked as in her dreams¡ªhe was just as cunning, too!


    Shenhe, how could you let yourself be fooled by the same trick twice?


    "So..." Shenhe asked cautiously, "Are you going to tell my master?"


    "Of course not," Lucas said, surprised by the question. "What would I gain from that?"


    Hmph, hypocrite!


    Clearly, he was hinting that he expected something in return.


    "I understand what you''re getting at." Shenhe took a deep breath. "Please don''t tell my master. I''ll agree to any condition. Here, I''ll even give you all the Mora I have left after buying the office, as long as you keep this secret."


    Even after buying the office, Shenhe still had millions of Mora remaining.


    "I told you," Lucas frowned, "I''m not going to tell your master."


    It seems the offer wasn''t enough.


    Indeed, while this man was evil, he didn''t seem to care much for money. But what could she offer to make him keep quiet?


    That''s right. This man''s favorite thing...


    Isn''t it... tormenting her?


    Does she have to, once again, throw away her dignity to please him, just like in the dream?


    Unaware of what was going on in Shenhe''s mind, Lucas simply assumed her guarded behavior was a result of her unfamiliarity with the world.


    "How about this," Lucas offered, sitting down in the office chair. "If you do me one favor, I''ll promise not to tell your master."


    Seeing him sit in that familiar chair made Shenhe instinctively gulp.


    It was a conditioned reflex at this point.


    "What... what kind of favor?" she asked, pretending not to know.


    "It''s simple," Lucas said, stretching his neck with a smile. "Just help me rx. You know how, right?"


    He thought she would just give him a shoulder massage, like the one he had just given her.


    But Shenhepletely misunderstood his request.


    Of course, I know what you want.


    "I understand," Shenhe replied bitterly. "But... could you cover your eyes?"


    "Cover my eyes?" Lucas was puzzled, but figured she was just shy. He took a handkerchief from his pocket and tied it over his eyes.


    "Alright," Shenhe said in a resigned tone, "I''ll begin."


    Lucas couldn''t help but feel a little awkward.


    Wow, you''re really making it seem like helping me rx is the worst thing ever.


    But soon, Lucas started to realize something was off.


    Before he knew it, a familiar sensation, like a jolt of electricity, ran through his body.


    It was just like the experiences from the "immersive mode."


    The only difference was... this office didn''t have a privacy screen.


    Why is Shenhe... doing this?


    Lucas wanted to stop, but his body stayed glued to the chair, unable to resist his base instincts.


    ...


    Half an hourter.


    The bathroom door creaked open as Shenhe stepped out, her face slightly flushed. She wiped the corners of her mouth and said, "That should do it, right?"


    "Shenhe, I think..." Lucas''s expression wasplicated. "We need to have a talk."


    "What''s wrong?" Shenhe frowned. "You didn''t like it?"


    In the dream, you clearly liked it.


    "It''s not that I didn''t like it... No! This isn''t about liking or not liking!" Lucas quickly shook his head. "Why did you do that?"


    If Lucas remembered correctly, the real Shenhe had trained under Cloud Retainer from a young age and wouldn''t have had the opportunity to experience anything like that.


    It was just... exactly like the Shenhe in the simtor.


    Impossible. Everything in the simtor was fake. And if this Shenhe had any connection to the one from the simtor, she should hate him, not... do something like that.


    Lucas''s question left Shenhe at a loss for words.


    She couldn''t exactly say she learned it in a dream, right?


    Ah, right... her master had once told her that if she encountered problems aftering down the mountain, she should try to solve them herself. But if the issue was too difficult, she could simply mention her master''s name!


    And right now, this was certainly an awkward predicament.


    "My... my master taught me!" Shenhe averted her eyes slightly, telling a lie.


    What?! Your master really teaches that kind of thing?


    "Really?" Lucas asked, still skeptical.


    "She said that if I ever met a man I liked, I could use this method to... please him." Shenhe lowered her head, staring at her toes (which, of course, she couldn''t see) as her face turned red. "Your behavior earlier... I thought you were hinting at me."


    So... it was my fault?


    Lucas wore an expression that was both amused and exasperated. Admittedly, given what had just happened, it was understandable that Shenhe might have misunderstood.


    But this misunderstanding was way too big.


    "And besides," Shenhe continued, lifting her gaze to meet his eyes, "you didn''t exactly stop me, did you?"


    I wanted to stop... but you were just too good!


    "Ahem... anyway, your master got one thing right: something like that should only be done with someone you care about," Lucas awkwardly shifted the topic. "So, in the future, you shouldn''t do that with anyone else, understand?"


    "I fully understand now..." Shenhe nodded thoughtfully, though still somewhat confused. "What you''re saying is... you want to have me all to yourself?"


    "You clearly don''t understand at all!" Lucas facepalmed. "What kind of strange education did Cloud Retainer give you?"


    This wasn''t going well. Given Shenhe''s beauty and innocent personality, if some bad person took advantage of her, she''d definitely suffer.


    I have to protect her!


    Maybe it was because Lucas wanted to prove to himself that he hadn''t been corrupted by evil thoughts, or perhaps he just felt guilty toward the Shenhe in the simtor. Either way, he found himself determined to protect this woman.


    Wait a minute!


    Lucas quickly opened the system interface and used his umted virtue points to exchange for two Transmission Stones.


    Yes, the very same ones from the simtor, which could be used like amunicator.


    Although their function was simple¡ªessentially acting like a walkie-talkie¡ªthey could only supportmunication between two specific individuals.


    When Shenhe saw the familiar stones in Lucas''s hands, her eyes widened again.


    In the simtor, Lucas had used these very stones to summon her at his whim.


    Could it be... he''s going to do the same thing again?


    "This is called a Transmission Stone," Lucas exined. "Using it, you can contact me anytime. This may not be anything special for an adeptus, so you should know how to use it, right?"


    Know how to use it? Oh, I know very well!


    Shenhe nodded shyly.


    "Great," Lucas handed her one of the stones and said earnestly, "If you ever run into trouble, use this to let me know right away. While I may not be as powerful as Cloud Retainer, I can still get there quickly to help you."


    [You''ve earned 1,000 Virtue Points!]


    Help me with my problems?


    I bet you just want me to "solve your problems!"


    And quickly, huh? You really can''t wait, can you?


    ------


    Author''s Note: The misunderstandings LOL

 Chapter 36: Villain Simulator, Ch 36

    <h4>Chapter 36: Viin Simtor, Ch 36</h4>


    ''Hypocrite! You''re such a hypocrite!''


    Though Shenhe inwardly criticized Lucas, the cold Transmission Stone in her hand seemed to radiate a warmth that reassured her.


    "You..." Shenhe''s expression wasplex as she asked, "Why are you being so kind to me?"


    Could this be part of your trap? A way to lure me into your gentle snare, step by step?


    "Though it may sound a bit embarrassing, I..." Lucas patted his chest and said, "I want to be an ally of justice!"


    An ally of justice?


    Hearing those words, Shenhe was momentarily stunned. Then, she couldn''t help but cover her mouth andugh, "You''re such... an idiot."


    "Yeah, maybe I am a bit of an idiot," Lucas scratched his cheek, slightly embarrassed. "But I have to say, you really are prettier when you smile."


    "What, do I look ugly when I''m not smiling?" Shenhe immediately stopped smiling.


    "No, that''s not what I meant!" Lucas quickly waved his hands. "In any case, if you ever run into any trouble, just contact me right away. And remember, never do what you did earlier with anyone else. Got it?"


    Only with you, then?


    Shenhe nodded lightly.


    "It''s gettingte; I should head out." Lucas gathered his belongings, seemingly unaware that Shenhe had already seen the photo of him and Ganyu. "Until we meet again."


    "Until... we meet again."


    As she watched Lucas leave, Shenhe felt a swirl of conflicting emotions.


    The evil Lucas, the kind Lucas... Which one is real?


    ''It seems like I can''t jump to any conclusions yet. I need to keep observing him, to see through his true nature. If he''s truly as irredeemable as he was in the dream, then I''ll be the one to end his sinful life... again.''


    "But..." Shenhe subconsciously stuck out her tongue and licked the corner of her mouth, muttering to herself, "That strange taste... it''s exactly the same."


    (AN: Shenhe so lewd)


    ...


    Meanwhile, in Snezhnaya, far from Lucas''s departure.


    In the luxurious and solemn Queen''s pce, a handsome youth dressed in the style of Inazuma stood staring at the murals on the wall, his face showing a thoughtful expression as he murmured to himself:


    "That strange dream... what on earth was that?"


    Despite the youthful appearance, this was none other than Scaramouche, the Sixth Harbinger of the Fatui, a figure feared by many.


    Behind his seemingly innocent appearancey a cold, ruthless heart. One moment, he could be smiling at you, and the next, a de might already be piercing your heart.


    However, at this moment, Scaramouche wore a ratherplex expression.


    Something strange had happened recently¡ªhe had dreamt.


    Yes, the content of the dream aside, the mere fact that he, a "puppet," had dreamt at all was strange enough.


    What made it even more bizarre was how long and realistic that dream had felt.


    Unlike in the simtor, in the real world, Scaramouche didn''t have a clear sense of his gender identity due to his unique existence.


    "Yo, little pipsqueak, you''re here early."


    A voice from behind interrupted Scaramouche''s thoughts, causing him to frown slightly.


    Turning around, he saw a tall, cold woman with a sneering expression. "Do you always wear those Inazuma clothes because you think the geta make you look taller?"


    "So, Signora," Scaramouche retorted, pinching his nose mockingly, "do you spray yourself with perfume every day because your body odor is so bad? Too bad my sense of smell is too sharp, even your perfume can''t mask the stench."


    Indeed, this tinum-blonde hair woman was La Signora, the Eighth Harbinger of the Fatui.


    "You!" Signora red at him with fury.


    This guy is just as detestable as he was in the dream.


    Yes, like Scaramouche, Signora had also been affected by the system, dreaming of the events from the simtor.


    However, she only dreamt about her time as "La Signora," and her memories of being "Rosalyn" were quite vague.


    Because of their personalities, Signora and Scaramouche had never gotten along in reality, and now, after the events of their dream, they found each other even more unbearable.


    But neither of them had any suspicions about the real-world "Doctor."


    And the reason was simple...


    "You two are still making such noise in the Queen''s pce?" A crisp but arrogant voice interrupted them. "How... ungraceful."


    A woman with short pale hair and an exaggerated outfit entered the room, hands on her hips. "You should learn from me if you want to earn the Queen''s favor."


    The woman looked to be in herte twenties, with a fairly attractive face, but her exaggerated smile and cunning eyes made it hard for anyone to feel much warmth toward her.


    This was the reason neither Scaramouche nor Signora associated the "Doctor" in reality with the one in the dream¡ªthe real-world Doctor was a woman.


    Not only that, her personality was vastly different from the Doctor they had encountered in the dream. The dream Doctor was calm andposed, while the real Doctor was arrogant and self-centered.


    More importantly, in terms of both technology and personal strength, the real Doctor waspletely outssed. While this Doctor was still conducting basic human experiments, the Doctor in the dream had already built an army of undead.


    Noparison, no harm.


    With this in mind, both Signora and Scaramouche suddenly regarded the real Doctor with a subtle hint of disdain.


    "What''s with those looks?" The Doctor frowned. "It''s really unpleasant."


    "You''d better get used to it," Signora said coldly. "By the way, why has Her Majesty summoned just the three of us?"


    "How should I know?" The Doctor shrugged. "But if I had to guess, it''s probably to reward me for my recent research achievements. Honestly, being so favored by Her Majesty makes me feel both honored and humbled."


    "Doctor," a maid suddenly appeared from the inner chamber, bowing slightly. "Her Majesty summons you."


    "See? Only me," the Doctor said smugly, casting a proud nce at the other two. "Don''t be too jealous now."


    With that, she strode into the chamber, head held high, as if she had a tail wagging behind her.


    But less than three minutester, angry shouts echoed from within, and the Doctor, who had just been beaming with pride, returned with a face drained of color.


    "Tsk tsk," Scaramouche sneered. "I wonder what grand reward Doctor received this time?"


    "I can''t believe this..." the Doctor muttered, her face clouded with frustration. "Her Majesty scolded me... for no reason..."


    Yes, after she had entered Tsaritsa''s office, she was scolded for something trivial¡ªbecause she stepped in with her left foot first.


    Even though the Doctor felt wronged, as a subordinate, there was no room for resistance, so she had to endure the scolding.


    Seeing the smug expressions on Scaramouche and Signora''s faces only added to her frustration. "Don''tugh too soon. Her Majesty is in a foul mood today. You''ll be getting your share of scolding soon enough."


    Sure enough, the maid quickly returned to summon Scaramouche and Signora.


    Inside the office, Tsaritsa sat on her throne. Given that her current form was that of a twelve or thirteen-year-old girl, she had to sit on a stack of books to raise her height.


    As expected, the Queen, who was usually emotionless, now looked sullen, her brow furrowed.


    If Signora and Scaramouche were the protagonists of Lucas''s viin simtor, then Tsaritsa was undoubtedly the "final boss."


    While not all characters from the simtor reflected into their dreams, those who interacted closely with the protagonist "Lucas" had a higher chance of having their experiences reflected in their dreams.


    Thus, although Tsaritsa had also been affected by the simtor, her dreams were vague. All she could remember was being betrayed by the Doctor... and being turned into an tree...


    As the ruler of a nation, Tsaritsa naturally couldn''t deem her subordinates guilty based on a strange dream. However, that dream had still left her with a significant psychological shadow.


    Thus, she summoned the Doctor, both to confirm if there was any connection between the dream and reality and also to find an excuse to vent her frustration.


    Poor Doctor, who had no idea what was going on, ended up taking the me for a crimemitted by Lucas, whom she had never even met.


    Perhaps due to Tsaritsa''s final moments of madness and brutality in the dream, both Scaramouche and Signora felt a bit nervous.


    Tsaritsa seemed to sense their unease and softened her expression slightly, saying, "No need to be tense. The reason I''ve summoned you is different from why I called the Doctor. You''re aware of the ''Gnosis Collection n'' I''ve been working on, right?"


    Indeed, whether in dreams or reality, Tsaritsa had never abandoned her goal.


    Both Signora and Scaramouche exhaled in relief and nodded.


    "Recently, I sent Tartaglia to Liyue to gather information on the Gnosis, but the progress has been too slow," Tsaritsa gestured to therge map of Teyvat on the wall behind her and continued, "So I''ve decided to send both of you to Mondstadt next to carry out a simr mission."


    "What?" Signora and Scaramouche eximed in unison, their voices ovepping, "With this narcissist/tiny runt?"


    "That''s right," Tsaritsa said sternly. "Snezhnaya has already established a foothold in Mondstadt, so your operations should proceed more smoothly. This mission allows no room for failure."


    Upon exiting Tsaritsa''s office, both Signora and Scaramouche looked even more displeased than the Doctor had earlier.


    "This was supposed to be a task I could easily handle on my own, and now I have to drag along a deadweight," Scaramouche crossed his arms, ring coldly. "You better not hold me back."


    "I''ll return the same words to you," Signora retorted haughtily, "This time, I won''t let you beat me to it!"


    As Signora gracefully walked away, Scaramouche frowned, puzzled.


    Strange... why did she say ''beat me to it "again"?


    ...


    In Liyue Harbor, inside Keqing''s office.


    Lucas was recounting everything that had happened¡ªhow he delivered the letter to Yuehai Pavilion, helped Shenhe out of trouble, and assisted her in finding a ce to stay.


    Of course, he conveniently left out certain "small details".


    "I didn''t expect you to encounter so many things while running such a small errand," Keqing said thoughtfully, rubbing her chin. "Still, for the disciple of Cloud Retainer to descend from the mountains ande to Liyue, it seems I should pay her a visit when I have the time."


    "More importantly, the issue of public order is significant," Lucasmented. "Those thugs might notmit any major crimes, but they''re causing quite a bit of trouble for the people."


    "You make a good point," Keqing nodded with a smile. "You''re efficient, and you seem to have some good ideas. It seems hiring you was the right decision."


    "Thank you for thepliment, Miss Keqing." Lucas chuckled. "I''ll keep doing my best."


    Wait, why am I praising him?


    Keqing''s mind churned. She wasn''t entirely sure whether Lucas''s nature was good or evil yet. Clearly, more tests were needed.


    With this in mind, Keqing''s expression became serious. "In that case, I have another task that needs doing. You''ll have to take a trip to Mondstadt. Travel expenses are covered, and there''s a reward afterward. Are you interested?"


    Mondstadt?


    Though Lucas had never been to Mondstadt in reality, he had lived there for a time in the simtor.


    Given that life in Liyue Harbor had been a bit dulltely, a little trip sounded appealing.


    "Of course, I''m willing," Lucas nodded. "What''s the task?"


    "You''ve probably heard about it¡ªMondstadt has been dealing with attacks from the Stormterror Dragon for centuries. In recent years, the attacks have be more frequent, causing significant damage."


    Keqing took out a wooden box and ced it on her desk. "To help defend against Stormterror, Jean, the Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, ordered a batch of weapons from Liyue, crafted by our Keqing Manor. Your job is to escort the shipment to Mondstadt tomorrow and ensure it arrives safely."


    It sounded more like a paid vacation than a job.


    Keqing opened the box, revealing a finely crafted sword inside.


    "This sword is called ''Lion''s Roar,'' one of the finest in this batch," Keqing handed it to Lucas. "I noticed you don''t have a weapon of your own, so consider this a gift."


    Lucas drew the sword from its sheath. The de was simple yet elegant, with a dragon-head design on the hilt. As he unsheathed it, the sword emitted a clear, melodious hum that lingered in the air.


    "A fine sword" Even Lucas, who wasn''t well-versed in weaponry, couldn''t help but praise it.


    [Lion''s Roar]


    [Grade: B]


    [Effect: Increases damage dealt by Pyro and Electro elements by 20%.]


    The weapon''s effects were somewhat different from what he had encountered in the game.


    However, since only Vision holders could use elemental damage, this B-tier weapon, for Lucas, was merely a sharp sword.


    Despite that, Lucas was looking forward to his trip to Mondstadt. Unaware of what awaited him there.


    ...


    Author''s Note: Rip doctor.. Deserved tho, Bitch

 Chapter 37: Villain Simulator, Ch 37

    <h4>Chapter 37: Viin Simtor, Ch 37</h4>


    Late Night.


    After going through such a long and exhausting journey in the simtor, Lucas felt quite relieved. While the extended scenarios in the simtor provided richer rewards, it was undeniably draining.


    It seemed he should mix things up with shorter and more concise simtions asionally, just for a change of pace.


    [Simtor cooldown has refreshed and can be started at any time.]


    "I''m not doing it today, I need a break," Lucas sighed contentedly, lying on his bed. "You keep pushing me like this, be careful, or you might end up hanging from amppost."


    But before his eyes were even closed for a minute, he shot up in bed, his brow furrowed. "Damn, I forgot something! What if Shenhe runs into trouble while I''m in Mondstadt?"


    In Liyue, he could rush to her aid, but being far away in Mondstadt wouldn''t allow him to get there quickly enough.


    [Complete one more simtion to unlock the achievement reward: Pocket Waypoint. This item allows you to ce an anchor point at a designated location for instant teleportation.]


    "No way! I just happen to need something like this, and the system conveniently offers it as a reward..." Lucas raised an eyebrow. "You''re not doing this on purpose, are you?"


    [This is called a ''flexible reward.'' If citizenship can be flexible, why can''t rewards be?]


    "I knew it..." Despite knowing it was a trap, Lucas couldn''t resist. "Fine, as long as I can finish the simtion. No big deal¡ªlet''s go for a quick one this time."


    [Thats what she said]


    "....."


    [Acknowledged. Life Simtor is starting.]


    [Please select three abilities from the following list. After the simtion ends, one will be randomly retained as a permanent talent.]


    - [Chicken You Are Beautiful (Blue): You are naturally gifted in singing, dancing, rap... and ying basketball.]


    - [I''ve Got Stronger (Blue): You have an immense talent forbat, but you''ll be bald forever. (If you hide your baldness, yourbat power will be greatly reduced.)]


    - [Born with a Silver Spoon (Green): You will be born into a wealthy family.]


    - [Monster Hunter (Green): You deal 10% more damage to non-human monsters.]


    - [Wolf''s Jaw (Green): You are born with an ugly, wolf-like face, but possess a powerful bite force.]


    - [Puppet Master (Blue): You possess a lifelike puppet and can transfer your soul into it, temporarily acting as the puppet.]


    - [Idol Master (Green): You are a natural manager, skilled in grooming idols.]


    - [Rain Man (White): It is highly likely to rain whenever you go out.]


    - [Wizard''s Honor (Green): If you remain virgin until the age of 30, you will receive a Vision (attribute of your choice).]


    - [World''s Largest (White): You are born the size of a toothpick.]


    Once again, a selection of odd talents.


    The most advantageous seemed to be [I''ve Got Stronger], but the cost of perpetual baldness was way too steep. He didn''t have the guts to embrace being bald like Saitama from One Punch Man.


    [Wizard''s Honor] also looked good, but Lucas doubted he could keep his purity intact within the simtor.


    After such an overwhelming simtionst time, he wanted something moreid back this round.


    "I''ll choose [Chicken You Are Beautiful], [Puppet Master], and [Idol Master]," Lucas mused. "Maybe I can just be a regr idol manager this time."


    No fighting, no killing, just working with cute girls¡ªsounded like a nice change of pace.


    ---


    [The Life Simtion begins.]


    [Age 0: You were born into a middle-ss family in Mondstadt. Your mother is a dancer, and your father is a pianist.]


    A pretty nice start!


    It was like the origin story of a shoujo manga protagonist.


    Even Eden Academy''s headmaster would say, "How elegant!"


    [Age 1: Even before learning to speak, you could hum along to your father''s piano melodies.]


    [Age 2: Mondstadt suffered an attack from the Stormterror Dragon. Fortunately, your family remained unharmed.]


    [Age 3: Your father began teaching you the basics of music and discovered your remarkable talent (Talent: Chicken You Are Beautiful) activated.]


    [Age 4: The birds in the trees were drawn to your voice during your morning vocal practice.]


    [Age 5: Your father developed a rare hand condition, causing stiffness in his fingers. You were young, but even you could hear the small mistakes in his music.]


    [Age 6: While in Mondstadt Square, you heard a traveling bard performing. Without thinking, you joined in and sang along, attracting arge crowd.]


    [Perhaps because you helped him earn more tips, the young bard gifted you an apple. After eating it, you felt much lighter.]


    [Achievement unlocked: Anemo Archon''s Gift]


    [Talent gained: Blessing of the Anemo God]


    [Effect: Agility increased by 20%.]


    What a nice surprise! It was indeed you, Lord Barbatos!


    Considering Barbatos''s love for music, it wasn''t strange to cross paths like this. After all, Mondstadt and music were practically synonymous.


    Of course, if Barbatos knew that this boy with a lovely singing voice had, in another timeline, destroyed his country, who knows what he would think?


    [Age 7: The second daughter of the Gunnhildr family was born. Your father was invited to perform at the celebration, but during the performance, his condition red up, leading to a mistake. One of the nobles from the Gunnhildr family mocked him for it. Deeply hurt, your father left in silence, refusing to ept any payment.]


    [Age 8: After that event, your father didn''t touch the piano for an entire year and became increasingly depressed. To lift his spirits, you practiced music even harder, but nothing could make him smile.]


    [Age 9: One morning, your father dressed formally and sat at the piano with great ceremony. You eagerly awaited the return of his music, but all you heard were discordant notes.]


    [His stiff fingers and broken spirit meant he could never again y the beautiful music he once had.]


    [Age 10: Your father passed away. When you went to wake him up in the morning, you found his feet hanging in the air. You realized that his fingers had frozen before his body.]


    [Many people came to mourn at the funeral, including members of the Gunnhildr family¡ªthose same adorable sisters you''d seen before. Despite your young age, you harbored resentment against them, believing that the mockery from three years ago had caused your father''s death.]


    Reading through the unfolding story, Lucas started feeling a growing sense of unease.


    It seemed like this time, the Gunnhildr sisters¡ªlikely Jean or Barbara¡ªwould be the targets of his ill will. However, he wasn''t sure which one just yet.


    [Age 11: Fortunately, your family was well-off. Your mother was a strong woman and soon recovered, determined to help you achieve greatness.]


    [Age 12: With your angelic voice, you joined the choir at the Church of Favonius, where your singing quickly captivated everyone. A young, blonde girl with twin pigtails began to idolize you¡ªBarbara Gunnhildr, the younger of the two sisters you had seen before.]


    Barbara, no longer part of the Gunnhildr family, now went by a different name: Barbara Pegg. Her father was Simon Pegg, the Cardinal of Dawn and a key figure in the Church of Favonius.


    [Barbara sang a song for you and asked for your feedback. Your evaluation was:]


    1. ["Wow! Your singing is incredible¡ªlike the voice of an angel!"]


    2. ["It''s a bit rough, but I think you have great potential."]


    3. ["If that can be called singing, then a butcher ughtering pigs must sound heavenly!"]


    Finally, a long-awaited GALGAME-style choice appeared.


    Without a doubt, based on how the system works, choosing a kind response would probably lead to nothing good. Since he didn''t select the [Try Again] talent this time, it was better not to take any risks.


    "I choose... the third option..."


    Sorry, Barbara!


    [You coldly nced at little Barbara and mocked, "If that can be called singing, then a butcher ughtering pigs must sound like heavenly music!"]


    [Your response instantly filled Barbara''s once hopeful eyes with tears. Watching her cover her face and cry, a strange sense of revenge satisfaction welled up inside you.]


    [Just then, a blonde girl suddenly punched you to the ground. Despite being three or four years younger than you, she easily overpowered you. That''s right¡ªit was Barbara''s sister, Jean Gunnhildr. Her beautiful eyes were now filled with fury: "If you bully anyone from the Gunnhildr family again, you''re dead!"]


    Wait a minute...


    Lucas suddenly realized¡ªBarbara''s surname was still "Gunnhildr"!


    ording to the game''s storyline, Barbara''s father should have parted ways with her mother, severing ties with the Gunnhildr family...


    Could it be that the plot had changed? In this world, Barbara''s parents never divorced, and because her father married into the family, she retained the family name?


    [Age 13: Thanks to your connections and outstanding talent, you were sent to Fontaine''s top art academy to study music. Before leaving Mondstadt, you performed in the choir onest time, but Barbara did not appear. Since the day you mocked her, she never attended choir again.]


    [After the performance, Jean approached you once more. She had grown even more beautiful in the past year, but the hatred in her eyes toward you had not changed. She told you that Barbara had been deeply depressed ever since your harsh words, to the point where she no longer dared to sing. She demanded that you apologize to Barbara. Your response was...]


    [1. "I''m very sorry. I''ll go back and apologize sincerely."]


    [2. "I was just being honest."]


    [3. "My father was mocked the same way by your family."]


    ---


    "The third option."


    ---


    [Upon hearing your response, Jean suddenly remembered who you were, and her face showed aplex expression. She didn''t press you to apologize further and left in silence. You knew that your revenge on the Gunnhildr family was far from over.]


    [Age 14: You officially enrolled in Fontaine''s art academy. Thanks to your angelic voice and extraordinary talent, you quickly became a rising star.]


    [Age 15: You formed a band with some ssmates, and it caused quite a sensation.]


    [Age 16: A song you wrote andposed topped the music charts.]


    [Age 17: In just two years, you created numerous popr songs, gaining fans not only in Fontaine but across all seven nations.]


    [Age 18: At the peak of your fame, you unexpectedly retired from performing and moved behind the scenes. Many were disappointed and confused by your decision, but only you knew that this was all part of your n.]


    [Age 19: After graduating, you founded an "idol agency" dedicated to discovering and managing idols.]


    [Age 20: Drawing on your past experience, connections, and personal talent, your agency quickly produced a sessful idol group (Talent: Idol Master activated).]


    ---


    So, he actually became an idol producer?


    Lucas smiled wryly. After all, the concept of idols didn''t really exist in Teyvat.


    In the game, Barbara only knew about idols because Klee''s mother, Alice, brought an idol magazine from another world.


    So, packaging a group of girls into popr idols using effective marketing strategies naturally yielded quick sess.


    [Age 21: You began to expand your business, and your agency soon established itself in Fontaine.]


    [Age 22: You directed your first film, The Stained Stage Costume, which received high praise. Although some critics saw it as a mediocre work riding on the poprity of idol actors, it still performed well at the box office.]


    [Age 23: You heard troubling news about Mondstadt. The "Dragon Disaster" had escted, and Mondstadt was struggling to survive. The Knights of Favonius and the Gunnhildr family had to send many troops to fight. After a brutal battle, they finally defeated Dvalin.]


    [However, the battle took a heavy toll on both the Knights of Favonius and the Gunnhildr family. Acting Grandmaster Jean Gunnhildr was gravely injured and bedridden.]


    [Upon hearing this news, you believed the time was ripe. After settling your affairs in Fontaine, you decided to head to Mondstadt and open a branch of your agency there.]


    [Age 24: Although you asionally visited Mondstadt over the years to take care of family matters, this time, when you returned, the city had changed drastically. Ruined buildings lined the streets, and the faces of the people no longer bore smiles. The city, once a symbol of freedom, now seemed cold and gloomy.]


    [Yet you felt no sadness, as your memories of this city were not fond ones.]


    [You went to visit the Gunnhildr family. Given your status and reputation, this was easy. Once a grand and luxurious estate, their home now stood deste. The family, once strong, had sacrificed many of its young members in the fight against the Stormterror Dragon.]


    [The Gunnhildr family was now a shell of its former self. You learned that even maintaining Jean''s expensive medical treatments was a heavy burden on them.]


    [You entered Jean''s sickroom. After not seeing her for over a decade, she had grown into a beautiful woman. Sadly, due to her injuries, she remained unconscious, like a dandelion scattered in the wind.]


    [Her sister, Barbara, had been tirelessly caring for her. Barbara, now as beautiful as her sister, had a face filled with worry.]


    [To your surprise, Barbara immediately recognized you. Her eyes filled with suspicion, yet when you handed her a check, she hesitated before epting it. At that moment, you spoke:]


    [1. "How pitiful. The once-proud Gunnhildr family has been reduced to nothing more than beggars."]


    [2. "I can turn you into a popr idol. You don''t want to see your sister wither away like this, do you?"]


    [3. "I''ll pay you a million mora for your most precious thing. Hand it over to me right here, in front of your sister."]


    Looking at these three options, Lucas once again fell deep into thought.


    The first one was the simplest form of revenge, but it felt a bit too in.


    As for the third one...


    ---


    Author''s Note: Well herees barbara arc >_<


    Cmon vote powahstonesss!!!

 Chapter 38: Villain Simulator, Ch 38

    <h4>Chapter 38: Viin Simtor, Ch 38</h4>


    "It''s not impossible," Lucas thought. "Even though it costs ten million mora, the money I''m spending here is what I''ve earned in the simtor, and I''ll get to enjoy it myself using the ''immersive mode.'' This is a win-win situation."


    However, would this truly count as revenge?


    To be honest, this would only be humiliating Barbara by throwing money at her. The perfect revenge should involve leading her step by step into an inescapable abyss, making herpletely fall into ruin and be a mere tool for his amusement...


    [You''re getting quite skilled at this, aren''t you?] the systemmented sarcastically.


    "This is just a simtion," Lucas, now used to ying the viin in the simtor, replied calmly. "I''vee to realize that as long as I can separate the simtion from reality, I won''t be affected by evil thoughts. It''s better to go all in rather than to hesitate inside the simtor."


    Exactly, everything in the simtor was fake! It was merely the system''s way of trying to corrupt him.


    ---


    [You smiled and said, "I can make you a popr idol. You don''t want to see your sister withering away, do you?" Barbara hesitated for a moment but ultimately rejected your offer.]


    [You could tell she didn''t trust you, which you had expected. You handed her a business card, telling her to contact you if she changed her mind.]


    [Soon after, you organized a free idol concert in Mondstadt''s main square, inviting the most popr idol group from your agency. The energy and joy from the performance brought new life to the city, which had been scarred by recent cmities. For the first time in a while, smiles returned to people''s faces.]


    [Among the audience, you spotted Barbara with a telescope. Her eyes were filled with admiration and longing. You knew your n was halfwayplete.]


    ---


    [Age 25: You held several more idol concerts, this time ticketed, and they all sold out. The concept of "idols" soon took hold in Mondstadt.]


    [Seizing the opportunity, your agencyunched an idol talent search in Mondstadt, with tens of thousands of applicants vying for a spot.]


    [The selection process had two stages: a preliminary round and an interview. The pass rate for the preliminary round was less than 1%, with only about a thousand applicants making it through.]


    [You know from your years in the industry that the path to bing a sessful idol is paved with the failed dreams of countless hopefuls.]


    [Sure enough, Barbara Gunnhildr''s name appeared on the list of sessful candidates. While you could have used your influence to guarantee her sess in the final interview, you chose not to.]


    [You believed in your judgment¡ªeven if this was revenge, you could still recognize that Barbara had the potential to be a top idol.]


    [Only 7% of those who made it to the interview passed to the next stage, which took ce across eight different groups. As expected, Barbara passed her interview effortlessly.]


    [In the end, only 98 applicants passed the interview. After three months of intensive training, only 30 remained for the final assessment¡ªand you were the final examiner.]


    [As the creator of the "idol" phenomenon, you were known for your strict standards and exceptional ability to create stars. Many of the hopefuls left your office in tears, and next up was Barbara.]


    ---


    "Enter immersive mode."


    ---


    [Sessfully entered immersive mode.]


    Lucas was now fully ustomed to immersive mode, easily distinguishing between reality and the simtion.


    The office door softly clicked shut, and in front of him stood a blonde girl of around eighteen. She wore an idol costume reminiscent of a nun''s attire, giving her a pure and innocent appearance. Her white thigh-high socks only added to her charm.


    Bing an idol wasn''t just about having beauty or talent; it was about having a quality that made fans feel connected, a certain approachable allure. Barbara possessed this naturally, without the need for training.


    ---


    "You came after all," Lucas smiled. "Why didn''t you contact me directly? You know I could''ve saved you a lot of trouble."


    "I... I didn''t want to take shortcuts," Barbara replied, her expression conflicted. After all, the harsh mockery from her childhood had left her with a lingering resentment toward Lucas.


    "That''s the right choice. If you had tried to take shortcuts, I would''ve eliminated you without hesitation," Lucas replied, sizing her up, causing Barbara to fidget nervously. "So, why do you want to be an idol?"


    "First, I need money. The family''s finances are stretched thin, barely enough to keep my sister alive. We need arge sum of mora to wake her from hera," Barbara said, taking a deep breath before continuing, "Second, since Stormterror''s attack, the city has been filled with gloom. I want to bring joy to the people again with my voice. If I be an idol, I can lift their spirits."


    Lucas pped slowly and smiled. "Well said. It seems you''ve already grasped the essence of being an idol."


    "The essence of being an idol?" Barbara repeated, looking puzzled. "What... what is it?"


    "It''s deception, my dear nun," Lucas said nonchntly. "The essence of an idol is to craft a perfect lie, to create a persona that everyone will adore."


    "But... I wasn''t lying! I meant what I said!" Barbara protested. "Those were my true feelings."


    "It doesn''t matter whether it''s the truth or a lie," Lucas shook his head. "What matters is achieving your goal. The idol gains fame, the fans get their joy, and I get my mora. As long as everyone wins, who cares if it''s all built on lies?"


    "I... I can''t ept that!" Barbara, in her innocence, couldn''t wrap her mind around such a perspective. To her, the idols on stage were radiant and pure. "Is that what being an idol really means?"


    "Oh?" Lucas shrugged. "Alright then, tell me, who''s your favorite idol?"


    "Alice from ''Slime Marshmallow,''" Barbara replied hesitantly. "She''s so cute, ying with slimes, isn''t she?"


    "Ah, her... A fantastic actress," Lucas smirked. "But in reality, she hates slimes. She gets hives all over her body whenever she touches them. Sheins to me about it all the time."


    "W-What?" Barbara gasped, shaking her head. "But... but what about Ayase Sakura from ''Good Morning Cat''? Her love for food can''t be fake, right? Watching her eat makes me so happy!"


    "Do you really think someone can eat that much and stay in shape?" Lucas sighed. "She''s always using a purge technique. You know that glove she always wears? It''s to hide the marks on her hand from making herself vomit."


    Barbara''s world was crumbling as she learned that everything she believed in was fake.


    "It''s all a lie, but it''s a beautiful one," Lucas said with a sly smile. "That''s why idols are such wonderful things. Smiling as they spin these perfect dreams. Barbara, do you have what it takes to do the same?"


    Barbara remained silent for a moment, then, with resolve in her eyes, said, "President Lucas, I''ve made up my mind. I will be an idol. I''ll prove to you that I can seed without lying."


    "I see your determination," Lucas replied with a grin. "In that case, let''s begin the final test. Sing your best song for me."


    "S-Sing?" Barbara hesitated, the confidence draining from her.


    "Just as I thought," Lucas said coldly. "I''ve been observing you during training. You work hard, but you have one major w¡ªyou can''t sing solo. You only feelfortable in a group, isn''t that right?"


    Blushing, Barbara nodded. "Ever since you criticized me all those years ago, I''ve been too scared to sing alone. But I''m fine singing in a group."


    "If you only sing in a group, you''ll never be the star. You''ll always be in the background," Lucas said bluntly. "I''m looking for a lead idol. If you can''t sing solo, I''m afraid you''re out."


    "Wait, I-I can do it!" Barbara took a deep breath, tapping her foot to keep rhythm. She started to sing softly, "When the rain falls on your sky, that''s me fighting off the clouds for you..."


    The song was one that Lucas had personallyposed, Let the Wind Tell You.


    Despite her nerves, Barbara''s natural talent shone through. Her voice was still sweet and captivating, despite the asional note slipping.


    ---


    "Alright," Lucas said, waving his hand. "You did it."


    "Does that mean..." Barbara asked excitedly, "I passed?"


    "Not so fast," Lucas grinned mischievously. "Now take off your top and sing it again."


    Barbara was stunned. "What? That''s too much!"


    "This is nothing," Lucas replied coolly. "On stage, you''ll have to face thousands of eyes. This is just to train yourposure."


    "C-Could that be true?" Barbara, in her naivety, almost believed him.


    "Of course it''s not true," Lucas said shamelessly. "I''m just seeing if you''ll do what I tell you."


    "But..."


    Barbara didn''t reject him outright. After all, bing an idol had been her lifelong dream. And more importantly, she needed the money to heal Jean.


    "I... I understand." Slowly, Barbara began to undo her cor.


    As her clothes fell to the floor, so too did her shattered dignity.


    Once more, Let the Wind Tell You filled the room. But this time, the cheerful song was tinged with an undercurrent of sadness.


    Lucas didn''t bother hiding his enjoyment of the scene unfolding before him.


    His revenge n was proceeding smoothly.


    But this was only the first step in Barbara''s descent. His ultimate goal was to build her up into a famous idol, only toter reveal all the dirty secrets behind her rise to fame, ruining the Gunnhildr family''s reputation for good.


    Barbara may have been innocent, but Lucas had no pity for her¡ªshe was just another pawn in his game.


    ---


    [Exited immersive mode. Reentered text mode.]


    ---


    [Barbara passed the final exam and officially joined your new idol group, Dandelion Song. The group wasposed of four members, including Barbara. The leader of the group was a girl from Inazuma named "Raiden Mai" ([Puppet Master] Talent activated).]


    ["Raiden Mai" was actually a doll you had found in your warehouse. Strangely, you discovered that you could temporarily transfer your consciousness into this doll and control it.]


    [You decided to use the doll''s body to join the idol group, not only to help boost the group''s poprity but also to keep a close eye on Barbara.]


    [Even though you''re a man, your deep understanding of the industry and mastery of singing and dancing made you a perfect idol producer. More importantly, the doll named "Raiden Mai" had an astonishingly beautiful face and body, making gaining poprity almost effortless.]


    [The "Dandelion Song" group project stillcked two members. Though you had plenty of artists to choose from, this was a brand-new group, so you decided to pick fresh talents.]


    [Among the candidates, a girl named Lilina caught your eye. Apart from her unpolished "clumsy girl" persona, she belonged to the rare Cat-Ear Tribe. Those adorable cat ears naturally boosted her poprity.]


    [Most importantly, she was very understanding. After the audition, she left you a card with the name of a hotel and her room number.]


    [That night, after preparing yourself, you went to the room Lilina had reserved. There, the two of you had a deep conversation. She didn''t hold back and showed off her advantages, proving her determination to be an idol. You also experienced the incredible stamina and superhuman physicality of the Cat-Ear Tribe.]


    [After this "discussion," you agreed to let Lilina join the group. It wasn''t just because of her talent; it was also because she was the kind of girl who was easy to control.]


    ["Favoritism" wasn''t a new concept in your industry. After all, there were countless beautiful and youthful girls, and to stand out, they had to pay a price.]


    [Of course, you never needed to hint at anything. With your handsome appearance and unique charm, many women offered themselves willingly. You didn''t see anything wrong with it, your life philosophy was all about "mutual benefit."]


    [Now, with three members confirmed for the group, you needed a musician. You walked the streets of Mondstadt at night, thinking about the final member. That''s when you heard a sweet melody from the tavern "Angel''s Share."]


    [The music was familiar. You entered the tavern and saw a handsome young boy in green, ying the lyre and singing. For some reason, he seemed familiar¡ªalmost like the wandering bard who gave you an apple when you were a child.]


    [However, you quickly dismissed the thought. That happened 20 years ago, and the bard before you didn''t even look 20 yet.]


    [You quietly observed him from a corner. You noticed that he seemed to love drinking, though he looked short on money. Seeing an opportunity, you bought him a drink and struck up a conversation.]


    ---


    "Enter immersive mode."


    ---


    [Sessfully entered immersive mode.]


    Standing before Lucas was indeed a face so beautiful it could be mistaken for a girl''s. Despite knowing he was a boy, the slight blush from the wine and the mischievous smile made him undeniably charming.


    Let''s get this straight: first, Lucas wasn''t into men.


    Second, he was just too cute.


    With that voice, face, and aura, not making him an idol would be a waste!


    As for his gender?


    Did that even matter?


    "I''m Venti, a wandering bard... hic!" the boy huped, his sweet, wine-scented breath filling the air as he smiled. "I know you¡ªLucas, the idol producer, right?"


    It wasn''t surprising that Venti recognized Lucas. After all, he was somewhat of a celebrity, often featured in newspapers and magazines.


    "Since you know who I am, you can probably guess why I''m talking to you," Lucas said, handing him a business card. "So, are you interested in bing a girl idol?"


    "Pfft!"


    Venti almost spat out his drink. "Wh-What? But... I''m not a girl..."


    "Who says only girls can be idols?" Lucas''s smile was full of subtle traps. "With my expertise, I can make you one of the most popr idols out there."


    "I''d rather not," Venti said awkwardly. "Being a wandering bard suits me more."


    "In reality, there''s not much difference between a bard and an idol," Lucas continued to coax him. "Both sing for a living. The only difference is one performs on a small stage, the other on a big one. One earns more, the other less."


    "I think you misunderstand," Venti said, now more serious. "I, Venti, am not someone who can be swayed by money."


    "I happen to be on good terms with Master Diluc. This is a lifetime VIP card for free drinks at ''Angel''s Share''..." Lucas ced a ck and gold membership card on the table, smiling. "Too bad I don''t care much for wine."


    "Y''know, now that I think about it," Venti''s expression suddenly turned serious, "you might have a point. Being an idol isn''t so bad after all."


    "You''re a smart one," Lucas said, quietly slipping the membership card into Venti''s hand.


    "I... I do have one small request," Venti said, his face flushed. "Could I... not wear a miniskirt?"


    Without skipping a beat, Lucas calmly finished his ss of Dandelion Wine, smiled, and replied:


    ------


    Author''s Note: I wonder what he gonna reply


    Anyways powahhh stones and I might release extra chaps tomorrow aswell!

 Chapter 39: Villain Simulator, Ch 39

    <h4>Chapter 39: Viin Simtor, Ch 39</h4>


    "No."


    [Thus, the four members of the group "Dandelion Song" were officially set: the doll with the appearance of a beautiful girl, Raiden Mai, the not-so-girl "idol" Venti, the seemingly clumsy but deeply calcting Lilina, and the only one with genuine idol dreams, Barbara.]


    [Of course, before debuting, Dandelion Song needed time to practice. In addition to the group, the idol auditions had produced 30 trainees, all of whom signed contracts with you.]


    [However, these girls, full of dreams, had no idea that the not-so-thin contract they signed was not just a ticket to their dreams but also a dead-end contract, tying them to you.]


    [While the world knew you as a "top producer," in the industry, you had another name: "the devil producer." The idols you trained always rose to fame, but without exception, they had gone through hellish training.]


    [Training sessionssting more than ten hours a day were just the basics. To maintain their figures, you also imposed strict dietary restrictions. Under this intense regimen, some trainees quickly began expressing the desire to quit, and it was then that you revealed your fangs.]


    [You informed those wanting to leave that breaking the contract would mean paying a huge penalty, which was clearly stated in the contract they had signed.]


    [Seeing the despair on their faces didn''t stir any emotions in you. You had a natural eye for spotting who could be a top-tier idol. In a nce, you could see whether someone had the talent.]


    [But talent alone wasn''t enough. Without effort, talent meant nothing. So, you used their dreams of bing idols to make them sign those unfair contracts, forcing them to stay. And even if they insisted on leaving, the hefty breach-of-contract fees would ensure you didn''t lose a dime.]


    Whoa...


    Doesn''t that make me a full-blown ruthless capitalist?


    Is the end of this simtion going to be me hanging from a streemp?


    To be honest, while Lucas despised ruthless capitalists, ying this role came with a strange sense of satisfaction.


    Certainly, Lucas''s methods in the simtor were meant to push the trainees to their limits, helping them achieve their potential. But at the end of the day, his real goal was to exploit these dream-chasing girls, turning them into his money-making tools.


    [While some trainees did choose to pay the penalties and quit, most came frommon families and couldn''t afford to leave. So, they stayed, enduring the harsh training.]


    [You would asionally join rehearsals as "Raiden Mai." For you, these practice sessions were a breeze, and the doll body you controlled never got tired.]


    [As for the cross-dressing Venti, despite hisid-back attitude, no matter how intense the training got, he always seemed to handle it with ease.]


    Well, of course!


    Even at his worst, Venti''s still a god of wind! No wonder he breezes through it!


    [Lilina, being from the Cat-Ear Tribe, used her physical flexibility to her advantage¡ªsomething you were already quite familiar with.]


    [For Barbara, however, the training was grueling. Still, she pushed herself hard, often staying to practice even after the scheduled sessions ended.]


    [You knew why she was so determined. In just a month, Dandelion Song would hold its first live concert. This performance would not only decide Barbara''s future as an idol but could also provide her with enough earnings to cover her sister Jean''s medical bills.]


    [A few dayster, Dandelion Song had their first formal rehearsal. As expected, your group stood out as the top performers among all the trainees.]


    [However, after practice, you pulled Barbara aside and said to her...]


    [1. "You performed really well. I knew you wouldn''t disappoint me."]


    [2. "You''re working hard, and you''re talented, butpared to the others, you still fall behind. If this continues, you might hold the group back."]


    [3. "You''re a huge disappointment. But if you agree to be my pet, I''ll still give you a chance to perform."]


    Choosing the third option would likely push Barbara to sacrifice her pride, given that for her, saving her sister Jean was more important than her own life.


    But that would be too easy.


    Lucas''s goal wasn''t just to make Barbara''s body fall¡ªit was to corrupt her soul entirely.


    "I choose the second option."


    [You sighed, pretending to be disappointed, and said to Barbara: "You''re working hard and you''re talented, butpared to the others, you''re still falling behind. If this keeps up, you might end up holding the group back."]


    [Your implication was clear¡ªyou were considering kicking her out of the group. Barbara fell silent at your words, not refuting them. Instead, she chose to push herself even harder in training to bridge the gap between herself and the other members.]


    [Yet, when everyone else left, the exhausted Barbara broke down for the first time, crying alone in the practice room under the overwhelming pressure. And at that moment, Raiden Mai, whom you controlled, quietly entered the room.]


    ---


    "Enter immersive mode."


    ---


    [Sessfully entered immersive mode.]


    "Ah, isn''t it Barbara-chan?" Lucas, in the guise of Raiden Mai, feigned concern. "What are you doing here sote?"


    Raiden Mai had been designed as the quintessential center idol: energetic, friendly, and brimming with charisma. Even someone like Lilina couldn''tpete with her radiance.


    "M-Mai?" Barbara quickly wiped her tears and forced a smile. "Sorry, I must''ve dragged down today''s rehearsal."


    "Nonsense! Barbara-chan''s performance was absolutely perfect!" Raiden Mai gave her aforting pat on the shoulder. "Who said otherwise? I''m mad just thinking about it!"


    "It was... it was the president," Barbara sighed. "He wasn''t wrong. Compared to the rest of you, I''m just not good enough."


    Indeed, to Barbara, Raiden Mai was the epitome of perfection¡ªa shining idol whose very presence captured the stage. Even as someone sharing that stage, Barbara couldn''t help but feel overshadowed by her brilliance.


    "President, huh? He''s just like that¡ªdon''t pay him any mind!" Raiden Mai slyly shifted the me away from her other self, smiling. "It''s alreadyte, and it''s not safe for such a cute girl like you to walk home alone. How about staying at my ce tonight?"


    "But..." Barbara hesitated. "Wouldn''t that be too much trouble?"


    "Not at all!" Raiden Mai pulled her into a gentle hug. "We''re friends, aren''t we?"


    Friends?


    By now, Barbara had seen the realities behind the idol world. Many of the so-called "best friends" she saw on stage were simply ying a role for the audience. Offstage, they had little to no real connection.


    But Raiden Mai¡ªso perfect and radiant¡ªconsidered her a real friend, and that deeply moved Barbara. "In that case... I''d be grateful," she whispered.


    To make Raiden Mai feel more lifelike, Lucas had put in plenty of effort.


    For instance, the backstory of a "wandering girl from Inazuma" helped smooth over any potential questions.


    He even rented a nice apartment, though it was more of a storage space for the doll than a real home.


    ---


    In the bathroom.


    "Ah, it feels amazing to soak in a hot bath after a long day''s work!" Raiden Mai stretchedfortably in the bathtub. "Barbara-chan, how''s the water temperature?"


    Although Raiden Mai was just a doll, its craftsmanship was so precise that it was indistinguishable from a human. There was no worry about it getting damaged by water.


    "It''s... perfect," Barbara replied, still feeling a bit shy about sharing a bath with someone else. "You''re so outgoing, Mai."


    "You have to ovee your weaknesses if you want to be an idol, right?" Raiden Mai chuckled. "I used to be super shy and uncoordinated. I couldn''t sing at all¡ªit was awful!"


    "R-Really?" Barbara''s face lit up in surprise. "Then... how did you be so amazing?"


    "Well, that is my little secret," Raiden Mai said with a yful smile. "But if it''s for you, Barbara-chan, I suppose I could share... just don''t tell anyone, okay? Especially Lilina¡ªshe''s sopetitive."


    "I swear by the Anemo Archon, I won''t tell anyone!" Barbara promised earnestly.


    Of course, she had no idea that the Anemo Archon, Barbatos, was right there with her the entire time.


    "It was the president who gave me special coaching," Raiden Mai revealed. "Though his personality can be rough, when ites to singing and dancing, he''s a genius. Even the dullest block of wood can be a masterpiece in his hands. Haha, am I being too full of myself?"


    "Him?" Barbara''s expression darkened slightly. "Could he really do something like that without expecting anything in return?"


    "It wasn''t free," Raiden Mai said, shaking her head with a sly, knowing smile. "I paid him back with something of equal value."


    "Equal value?" Barbara, still innocent, asked. "What do you mean?"


    Raiden Mai leaned close and whispered a few words into Barbara''s ear, causing her face to turn bright red.


    "H-How could he make you do something like that?" Barbara stammered, flustered. "To force you into that..."


    "It wasn''t forced¡ªI agreed to it," Raiden Mai corrected. "The president is handsome, talented, and, well... let''s just say he''s good in that department, too. Honestly, I think I got the better end of the deal!"


    Lucas''s acting was spot on. Even shamelessly praising himself, he didn''t break character.


    Barbara, meanwhile, was left speechless, the revtion clearly overwhelming her.


    "Barbara-chan..." Raiden Mai asked gently, "You don''t hate me for this, do you?"


    "Of course not!" Barbara shook her head quickly. "Mondstadt is a city of freedom¡ªyour choices are your own."


    "An idol is like a lotus," Raiden Mai mused, gazing out the window at the pond lit by the moonlight. "Even if it grows in the mud, it still shows its purest side to the world."


    "I... I understand now," Barbara suddenly stood up in the bathtub, resolute. "Even if I have to stand in the mud, I can still bloom as a pure flower!"


    With that, she got out of the tub. "Thank you, Mai!"


    Watching Barbara leave, Raiden Mai smiled meaningfully. She closed her eyes and transferred her consciousness back to her other body.


    ---


    Twenty minutester.


    As the doorbell rang, a luxury vi''s door slowly opened.


    "Who is it thiste?" Lucas answered, raising an eyebrow at the visitor. "Barbara? It''s quitete for a house call."


    "I''m not here as a guest," Barbara said nervously. "I''m here to ask you to teach me how to be a proper idol."


    "The agency''s instructors are more than capable of doing that," Lucas replied, ying hard to get.


    "I need your personal guidance," Barbara said, gathering her courage. "Just like... the guidance you gave Mai."


    "That girl actually told you about that?" Lucas pretended to be surprised. "Well, in that case, you should also know that my ''personal lessons''e at a hefty price."


    "I... I''m ready," Barbara said, clenching her fists. "Please, teach me everything."


    "Of course," Lucas patted her head. She instinctively flinched but stood her ground. "What I''ll teach you won''t just be knowledge, you know."


    Whether for her dreams or for her sister, Jean, Barbara knew... she had to make a sacrifice.


    "I... I''d like to take a bath first," Barbara stammered, heart racing with regret yet knowing she had no other choice.


    "Perfect," Lucas smirked. "Let''s bathe together. My bath is quite spacious."


    "But..." Barbara hesitated, taken aback by his directness.


    "It seems you haven''t fully decided," Lucas smiled. "If you want to back out now, there''s still time."


    "I... I won''t regret this!" Barbara steeled herself, shaking her head firmly. "But... I don''t know how."


    "Don''t worry, I''ll teach you," Lucas said, walking back into the room without looking back. "Once you step into this room, there''s no turning back. Think carefully."


    As Barbara watched Lucas''s figure retreat, her emotions were deeply conflicted.


    Her memories of him stretched back a long time.


    The first time she saw him was at his father''s funeral, where Lucas was just a young boy with a slightly gloomy look in his eyes.


    The second time was in the choir at the Church of Favonius. Little Barbara had immediately recognized him and, using the excuse of "helping with singing," tried to get to know Lucas. But all she received in return was cruel mockery.


    The next time they met, it was already more than a decadeter. The once lonely and withdrawn boy had transformed into a smooth and charismatic celebrity producer.


    He had given Barbara hope but had also shown her the darkness.


    Even though, from the very beginning, he had never truly forced her to do anything¡ªeverything had been Barbara''s own choice.


    And this time was no different.


    Click.


    Barbara''s pristine little shoes made a soft sound as they stepped onto the freshly waxed, mirror-like surface of the luxurious wooden floor, leaving a small imprint behind.


    "Sorry..." Barbara flinched slightly and said, "I dirtied your floor."


    "Don''t worry about it," Lucas turned around, gently lifting Barbara''s delicate chin as he whispered, "After all, tonight, it won''t just be the floor that gets dirty."


    Standing so close to Lucas for the first time made Barbara feel a bit breathless.


    His deep, dark eyes, the faint scent of cologne, and the firm muscles on his arms, toned from years of dance practice, all exuded a potent sense of masculinity.


    It almost made Barbara believe, for a fleeting moment, that he had been waiting just for her.


    For an ordinary girl, this scene would likely be the height of romance.


    But Barbara knew in her heart that this was merely a transaction. The man who seemed so gentle and polite was, in reality, a wolf in sheep''s clothing.


    And she was the little rabbit, willingly walking into the wolf''s jaws.


    Lucas hadn''t lied¡ªhis bathroom really was enormous. Even innocent Barbara could understand that the reason for such arge bathtub was not purely for practicality.


    Of course, with Lucas''s wealth, such things were trivial matters.


    -----


    Author''s Note: I really feel bad for barbara...

 Chapter 40: Villain Simulator, Ch 40

    <h4>Chapter 40: Viin Simtor, Ch 40</h4>


    Barbara also noticed that the brand of body wash Lucas used was the same as Raiden Mai''s.


    Of course, considering the connection between the two, this was hardly surprising.


    Lucas casually removed his coat, as if there was no one else present.


    "Huh!"


    Barbara panicked, quickly covering her eyes with her hands. However, through the gaps in her fingers, she peeked at him, unable to resist her curiosity.


    The sound of water sshing followed as Lucas turned on the shower. There was no water heater in Teyvat, but using a Pyro Slime as an energy source, one could still enjoy a hot bath at any time.


    As the water temperature rose, so did the heat in the air.


    ...


    "Are you ready?" Lucas looked at the petite blonde girl standing before him. "Next, I''ll teach you your first lesson... First, you need to cast off all your cloths."


    The girl nodded and slowly removed all her cloths.


    "Now, let''s begin the fight," Lucas positioned himself, ready. "Just follow your instincts."


    The pool was clear, except for the crimson that began to spread.


    Barbara felt different from Shenhe and La Signora.


    Although neither had muchbat experience, thetter two had more dominant personalities and would asionally take the initiative, sometimes even surprising Lucas with daring moves that nearly forced him to surrender.


    But Barbara was different. Like a helpless little animal, she had no idea what to do, remaining entirely passive and allowing Lucas to control the pace of the fight with ease.


    Even so, Lucas saw a strong spirit in the girl. Despite being hit at critical moments, she gritted her teeth and held on.


    The first battle didn''tst long. Of course, this wasn''t due to Lucascking stamina but rather him being considerate of Barbara''s inexperience.


    Lucas wasn''t one to indulge in any extreme preferences. Barbara was like an uncut jade, and it would be a shame to damage something so precious.


    Thanks to the industry''s unwritten rules, since founding his agency, Lucas had encountered many women trying to take shortcuts. Among them, some pretended to be innocent and pure.


    But their poor acting often made Lucas want tough. Barbara was different¡ªher innocence and charm were genuine and unpolished.


    Especially after the battle ended, her expression was like a greedy little hamster who had stuffed too many seeds and nuts into its cheeks, making them puff up.


    "If you need to throw up, go ahead," Lucas patted Barbara''s back gently, "You did well."


    With his permission, Barbara finally opened her mouth and began to vomit. Along with the filth flowing down the drain, tears streamed down her face as well.


    "So..." Barbara''s face was pale as she asked, "Can we begin the idol training now?"


    "Of course, I always keep my promises," Lucas nodded, "But I think you should rest first."


    "I... I don''t have time to rest," Barbara shook her head, "Mai, Venti, and Lilina are all so talented. I must... catch up to them."


    For some reason, in that moment, Lucas saw a light in Barbara¡ªa light he had never seen in this morous yet corrupt industry.


    "Then you better prepare yourself," Lucas said with a devilish smile, "My special training is very rigorous."


    Barbara was indeed a hard-working student. Given that the other three members weren''t ordinary humans, Barbara had no choice but to push herself harder to catch up.


    And she could see the progress. Raiden Mai hadn''t lied to her. Lucas truly was a genius. Whether it was the dance steps she always missed or the notes she couldn''t quite grasp, with just a bit of guidance from him, she quickly understood.


    Perhaps because she was so focused on her improvement, Barbara didn''t even notice time passing. By the time she was exhausted and close to copsing, she saw the faint light of dawn through the window.


    "President..." Barbara said, weary, "Can you... give me more guidance next time?"


    "My guidance..." Lucas rubbed his chin and replied, "is paid per session."


    "Paid per session?"


    Barbara froze for a moment, then realized what he meant. She murmured, "So... every time there''s guidance..."


    "If you knew how much I usually charge for private tutoring, you wouldn''t be so surprised," Lucas said nonchntly, unfazed by Barbara''s reaction, "You''re cute, little nun, but not cute enough for me to work for free. However..."


    "However what?" Barbara asked, furrowing her brow slightly.


    "If it were your sister..." A sly smirk appeared on Lucas''s lips, "That might change things..."


    p!


    The sharp sound of a p echoed in the streets of Teyvat, just as dawn broke.


    It was hard to believe that such a small body could produce so much force.


    "You... you can treat me however you want," Barbara said angrily, biting her lip, "But you are not allowed to insult my sister!"


    To be honest, the moment she pped him, Barbara regretted it. Though his words had been vile, her impulsive act might earn her a severe punishment.


    "I''ll let this one slide since you worked so hard tonight," Lucas said, touching his burning cheek with the back of his hand, smiling, "Now go, before anyone sees an idol trainee leaving the producer''s vi early in the morning. If you''re caught, your career will be over."


    He... let it go?


    Right, I''m an idol trainee, one of his investments¡ªproperty. That''s why he''s willing to let me off the hook.


    "Goodbye, President, and... thank you for your guidance." Barbara gave him aplicated look before adding, "But you really are aplete scumbag."


    It was the first time in her life that Barbara had used foulnguage. Even though it might go against her faith in the Anemo God, Barbatos, she had to say it.


    "You clearly don''t know me well," Lucas leaned against the doorframe and scoffed, "I''m much worse than you think."


    Watching Barbara''s retreating figure, Lucas finally rubbed his sore cheek.


    Wasn''t this simtor supposed to make things painless?


    That p hurt way too much!


    [Sorry]


    The system chimed in,


    [It seems I misjudged Barbara''sbat strength and didn''t activate the defense measures in time.]


    You did that on purpose, didn''t you?


    [Whistling innocently~]


    Don''t write out your thoughts! And that whistling is awful!


    [You took that p on purpose anyway.]


    Indeed, Lucas had provoked Barbara intentionally, ensuring she would hate him.


    After all, a young girl''s feelings are always unpredictable. After such an intense night, if she identally developed feelings for him, it would ruin his ns.


    This wasn''t vanity on his part. Being a talented, well-off idol producer with decent looks, it wasn''t hard to attract women.


    [Switching to text mode.]


    [After your "special guidance," Barbara''s progress became much faster. Her training advanced at a remarkable pace.]


    [Of course, no one else knew about the secret between you and her. After all, who would have guessed that the sweet, innocent little nun had slowly begun to change?]


    [Thus, you yed two roles. During the day, you were Raiden Mai, the center of "Dandelion Song," Barbara''s supportive teammate and sister. At night, you returned to your real self, giving her meticulous private lessons.]


    [Luckily, when your consciousness was transferred into the doll, your physical body remained in a state of rest. Otherwise, even you would have found it difficult to handle.]


    [Besides her growing skills, you also noticed another change¡ªBarbara''s personality. She became more outgoing. Sometimes, during rehearsals, even you couldn''t overshadow the brilliance she exuded.]


    [As for the other two members, Venti seemed oblivious. The training was not difficult for him, and thepensation satisfied him.]


    [For Venti, being an idol was just another job. Though at first, he resisted wearing the miniskirt, after you bribed him with Dawn Winery''s century-old wine, he not only epted the miniskirt but also weed stockings and tank tops.]


    [His slender figure made his gender ambiguous. If it had been anyone else, they would have been exposed long ago.]


    [Lilina, on the other hand, seemed to have noticed something. She frequently hinted at resuming your "deal," but you politely declined.]


    [You had never engaged with Lilina because of personal desire. She was just convenient to control. While talented, she was the only receable member in the group. After all, there were always plenty of talented people.]


    [A monthter, the highly anticipated debut live performance of "Dandelion Song" took ce in Mondstadt''s za. The hard work had finally paid off, and the performance was a huge sess. Songs like "Let the Wind Tell You" and "Ever-changing Alcohol" became instant hits, sweeping across Mondstadt.]


    [At the final performance, you stood on stage as Raiden Mai, with Barbara by your side. Her performance had been incredible, almost overshadowing you as the center.]


    [The live show was a massive sess, making "Dandelion Song" explode in poprity, even making headlines in the "Steambird Gazette." The group quickly gained arge following.]


    [ording to post-show fan votes and analytics, Raiden Mai held the top spot, but Barbara wasn''t far behind. After all, Mondstadt was her hometown, and even if she wasn''t as skilled as you, her local ties gave her a significant edge.]


    [True to your word, you awarded the four members a generous bonus ording to their contract. Barbara immediately used her share to hire Mondstadt''s best doctor to treat her sister Jean''s condition.]


    [You gave the group a few days off. Having heard that Jean had begun treatment, you decided to...]


    [1. Visit as Raiden Mai. ]


    [2. Visit as Lucas. ]


    [3. Invite Barbara to your home. ]


    "Let''s go with the second option."


    For some reason, Lucas had a feeling that this choice might trigger some significant plot development.


    [A few dayster, you arrived at the Gunnhildr family estate, carrying a gift, and knocked on the door.]


    [Forcefully entering immersive mode.]


    I knew it...


    Lucas found himself standing before an impressive yet somewhat neglected estate entrance. It seemed as though it hadn''t been cleaned for quite some time, with dust settling even on the statues by the gate.


    As the saying goes, "To wear a crown, you must bear its weight." When the Stormterror dragon, Dvalin, ravaged Mondstadt, the Gunnhildr family, upholding their honor, had to send their elites to fight, which led to a significant loss of manpower. Even the family''s heir, Jean, had been gravely injured and fallen into aa.


    In theory, Lucas no longer needed to seek revenge. If he simply waited, the Gunnhildr family would inevitably decline.


    However, that wasn''t the oue Lucas desired. Even if the Gunnhildr family fell, they could still leave behind a glorious legacy. Lucas''s goal was to utterly ruin their reputation.


    "Hello...?" A young boy with brown hair opened the door, looking puzzled. "Sir, who are you looking for?"


    The boy seemed no older than sixteen or seventeen, with a few freckles on his face and a hint of youthful innocence.


    "I''m Lucas, the president of Barbara''s talent agency," Lucas said politely, inclining his head. "I''ve heard that Barbara''s sister is recovering, so I''vee to pay a visit."


    "Oh! I know who you are!" the boy eximed, his face lighting up with excitement. "I attended her performance, though I could only afford the cheapest ticket. Thanks to your support, Miss Barbara was able to shine so brilliantly."


    "Pleasee in. I''ll take you to see her," the boy said as he stepped aside. "I''m a servant here. You can call me Kent."


    As Lucas followed Kent into the mansion, it was clear that the inside was just as deste as the exterior, with only a few servants in sight.


    Noticing Lucas''s curiosity, Kent gave a slightly embarrassed smile. "Sorry for the state of things. Since... the incident, the family''s ie has plummeted. We can''t even afford to pay most of the staff anymore, so many had to leave."


    "Oh?" Lucas responded calmly. "So, why did you stay?"


    "Me...?" Kent''s young face flushed slightly. "As long as I can serve Miss Barbara, I... I''m more than content."


    Lucas smiled slightly. "It seems you''re quite fond of Barbara."


    "Well... yes," Kent stammered, before quickly shaking his head. "No, no, someone like me, a mere servant, shouldn''t have such thoughts. Miss Barbara deserves a truly great man."


    "Don''t worry," Lucas said with a reassuring but insincere tone. "ording to the rules, idols aren''t allowed to date. Your Miss Barbara won''t be falling in love with anyone."


    "That''s... that''s good," Kent said, visibly relieved. His eyes sparkled with admiration. "Of course, idols shouldn''t date, especially someone as perfect as Miss Barbara."


    The rule that idols cannot date is well-established in the industry.


    The excuse is that rtionships might distract idols from their work, but the real reason is that idols thrive on fan support. If an idol starts dating, it makes fans feel betrayed, which can lead to a massive loss of followers.


    "Miss Barbara is in this room," Kent said, bowing slightly. "I''ll head to the kitchen to prepare lunch and notify you both when it''s ready."


    As Kent walked away, Lucas allowed a barely perceptible smirk to cross his face.


    After knocking on the door, a familiar voice came from within. "Who is it?"


    "It''s me."


    After a brief silence, the door was quickly opened by a visibly nervous Barbara. Without giving Lucas a chance to speak, she pulled him into the room and closed the door behind him.


    Barbara''s expression wasplicated as she asked, "Why... why are you here?"


    Perhaps due to her previous encounter with Lucas, Barbara had be much more cautious around him.


    "No need to be so tense," Lucas said with a smile. "I''m just here as your producer, visiting one of my idols."


    "Who... who let you in?" Barbara asked, still a bit hesitant.


    "That young man, Kent," Lucas replied honestly. "He seems to have quite the fondness for you."


    "Stop with those pointless jokes," Barbara shot him a re. "Someone like me... doesn''t deserve to be liked by anyone."


    -----


    Author''s Note: I know many of you might not like this arc.. but honestly I am not gonna remove it.. But- You could bribe me with powerstones to upload faster so lets goooo~


    Goals :- 300 ps = 1 extra Chapter!

 Chapter 41: Villain Simulator, Ch 41

    <h4>Chapter 41: Viin Simtor, Ch 41</h4>


    Lucas naturally understood what Barbara meant. After her "deal" with him, she felt she had be a "tainted" girl, no longer worthy of being loved.


    "You''re doing that ''Versailles'' thing again," Lucas chuckled as he patted Barbara''s head. "Over the past few days, your fan base has grown exponentially, almost catching up to..."


    "Catching up to who?" Barbara frowned.


    Oops, almost let it slip!


    "Catching up to the one I intended to promote the most¡ªRaiden Mai," Lucas quickly corrected himself. "To be honest, you might just be the most popr girl in Mondstadt right now."


    Despite herplicated feelings toward Lucas, hearing such praise brought a hint of pride to Barbara''s face. Yes, her hard work had finally paid off. Her sister''s condition was improving, and even though the cost had been great, it all seemed worth it.


    "It seems your sister is recovering well," Lucas said, ncing at Jean lying in the bed. He smiled. "Herplexion looks much better than before. She really is a beauty."


    "Get lost!" Barbara quickly stepped between Lucas and Jean, ring at him with a wary expression. "Don''t you dare have any improper thoughts about my sister!"


    "It''s just apliment," Lucas shrugged. "Even if I wanted to do something, I prefer interactions, and an unconscious Sleeping Beauty doesn''t really interest me."


    "My sister will wake up!" Barbara dered firmly. "The doctor told me today that her condition is improving. As long as I keep working hard, she will recover fully."


    Looking into Barbara''s eyes, Lucas couldn''t help but feel a twinge of pity.


    Ever since their "deal," Lucas had rarely seen Barbara show this kind of determined expression.


    Aside from moments like this, she only wore such a genuine, happy smile when she was on stage.


    "Don''t worry. Your sister will recover," Lucas said softly. "In this world, there''s nothing Mora can''t buy."


    In the past, Barbara would have immediately argued back with the moral lessons she had learned. But after experiencing her family''s decline and the coldness of the world, Barbara hade to realize that maybe that statement was true. Money had paid for her sister''s treatment. Money could control people''s fates. Money had even bought... her.


    "Can I ask you a question?" Lucas''s voice broke through Barbara''s wandering thoughts. "If your sister wakes up and recovers, will you... continue being an idol?"


    "I... I don''t know," Barbara sighed. "I feel genuinely happy when I''m performing on stage, but... I don''t want to be controlled by you anymore."


    "You''re right. Not just you, but all the idols under me are in my control," Lucas said, surprisingly calm. "But don''t worry. As long as you can pay the contract''s penalty fees, you''re free to leave anytime."


    Lucas didn''t deny being a ruthless businessman. But, on the other hand, everything was clearly written in the contracts. The girls, lost in their dreams of fame and sess, rarely paid attention to the fine print.


    "I will pay back everything I owe you," Barbara said, her voice firm. "And after that, I will cut all ties with you."


    "Speaking of what you owe me..." Lucas narrowed his eyes, a mischievous smile forming. "You still haven''t paid me for thest ''private lesson,'' have you?"


    "The... thest time?" Barbara''s face flushed as she recalled something. "I was too exhausted that time. You can set a date, and I''ll... I''ll make it up to you."


    "How about... right now?"


    Without waiting for an answer, Lucas reached out and ced his hand on Barbara''s shoulder.


    "What?" Barbara''s eyes widened in shock. "How... how can you do it here? How can you...?"


    How can you do this in front of my sister?


    "Rx. When I came in earlier, there wasn''t a soul around," Lucas said, stepping closer. "And as for your sister, she won''t know a thing."


    "But... but..." Barbara weakly protested, still trying to resist. She pleaded, "Can we do it somewhere else? Anywhere but here?"


    "You don''t have the right to bargain with me," Lucas whispered in her ear. "Keep your voice down, my little nun. This is part of the deal."


    In the end, Barbara gave in.


    For the first time, she was grateful her sister waspletely unconscious.


    Avoiding looking at her sister, Barbara failed to notice the smile creeping across Lucas''s face.


    He nced at the unconscious Jean and then at the prominent portraits of the Gunnhildr family heads that adorned the wall. It felt as though they were watching him, but Lucas knew that what he was doing was trampling on thest remnants of this family''s dignity.


    The image of his father had long faded from his memory, but the desire for revenge only grew stronger with each passing day.


    ...


    Kent was from the small vige of Springvale, just outside Mondstadt. Most of the vigers worked as hunters, but Kentcked the talent. While his peers could hunt boars, Kent couldn''t even catch a rabbit.


    On the rmendation of the hunter leader, Dof, Kent first worked at Diluc''s stables before being sent to work at the Gunnhildr estate, where he found a job tending the gardens.


    Even though the work was simple, Kent was more than satisfied. The pay was good, and most importantly, he asionally got to see the angelic second daughter of the family¡ªBarbara.


    Barbara wasn''t just beautiful; she was kind and approachable, the only family member who ever greeted him. No matter how hard the day''s work was, seeing her smile made Kent feel like all the fatigue had vanished.


    So when he learned that Barbara''s idol group was hosting a live concert, Kent didn''t hesitate to spend all his savings on a ticket.


    Watching Barbara shine on stage, Kent made up his mind. No matter how hard he had to work for the rest of his life, he would stay with the Gunnhildr family just to catch glimpses of her smile.


    Now, lunch was ready, and Kent stood outside Jean''s room, lightly knocking on the door. "Miss Barbara, Mr. Lucas, lunch is ready. You cane eat now."


    There was no reply, only a faint sound of movement inside.


    Must be the wind blowing through the window, Kent thought to himself. I should fix that loose windowter.


    "Miss Barbara?" Kent called again.


    "I heard you..." Barbara''s voice came from inside. "You go ahead. I''ll be right there."


    "But..." Kent hesitated, concerned. "If we wait too long, the food might get cold. Whatever you''re discussing, it can wait until after you eat."


    Barbara''s stomach had always been sensitive. It wouldn''t be good for her to eat cold food.


    "It''s fine," Lucas''s voice replied from inside. "We''ll be there together, right, Barbara?"


    "Mm..." Barbara''s voice sounded soft and faint. "I''ll be right there."


    A long silence followed.


    Kent felt a bit uneasy. Something seemed off about the way Barbara had spoken, but he couldn''t quite pinpoint why.


    He knew the door wasn''t locked, but as a servant, he didn''t dare to open it without permission.


    Finally, the door slowly opened, and Barbara stepped out, her face slightly flushed for some reason.


    Naive Kent didn''t realize what had just transpired in the room. Concerned, he asked, "Miss Barbara, are you feeling unwell? You look a little flushed. Do you have a fever or something?"


    "Don''t worry," Lucas appeared behind Barbara, smiling. "I know Barbara''s body very well. She''s fine... perfectly fine."


    Lucas''s acting was undeniably top-notch. Although his special ability was called "You''re Too Beautiful, Chicken", his acting skills far surpassed a certain kun.


    To Kent, Lucas seemed like a considerate, graceful, and charismatic producer. But Barbara knew all too well that it was just a fa?ade. If she were to describe him with the harshest words she could think of, they still wouldn''t do him justice.


    "Let''s go eat," Lucas patted his stomach with a smile. "After some intense exercise, I always get hungry."


    "Intense exercise?" Kent asked innocently. "Did you exercise earlier, Mr. Lucas?"


    As soon as Kent asked, Barbara''s face turned a few shades redder. She struggled to think of an exnation, but Lucas casually nodded and replied, "Before I came here, I went horse riding for a bit at Mr. Diluc''s stables."


    "Mr.Diluc''s stables?" Kent''s face lit up with excitement. "I used to work there! Which horse did you ride?"


    "Let me think..." Lucas made a show of stroking his chin thoughtfully. "It was a beautiful little white horse with golden hair and the most mesmerizing blue eyes."


    "Golden hair and blue eyes?" Kent tilted his head, confused. "I don''t remember any horse like that."


    "It must''ve been a recent arrival," Lucas said, smoothly running his hand down Barbara''s back. "She looked quite tame, but in reality, she''s quite wild. I''ve tried for a while, but I still haven''t fully broken her in."


    Barbara caught the hidden meaning behind Lucas''s words but couldn''t find the right way to respond. She could only bite her lip in frustration as her face grew redder, like she was about to burst.


    "Breaking in a horse takes skill," Kent continued, seemingly unaware of the subtext. "You need to get close to the horse, give her regr baths, take her for walks, and make sure to keep a leash on her, of course."


    "Bathing and walking her, huh?" Lucas looked at Barbara with a mischievous grin. "Sounds like a good n."


    Ugh, this guy¡ªhe''s talking about horses, but in his mind, it''s clearly about...


    Barbara puffed her cheeks in frustration, though Kent remained oblivious. He continued on, "But being too gentle isn''t always good. If the horse misbehaves, you''ve got to use the whip to get her in line."


    "Kent!" Barbara shouted suddenly. "Enough about horses. I''m hungry¡ªlet''s eat!"


    "S-Sure!" Kent jumped, surprised by Barbara''s outburst. It was the first time he''d ever seen her so upset.


    Strange, he thought. Did I say something wrong to anger her?


    Lucas followed the two out of the room, but before closing the door, he cast a meaningful nce at the still-unconscious Jean. "Keep sleeping, my Sleeping Beauty," he murmured. "It''s not yet time for you to wake up."


    Lunch was a far cry from anythingvish, yet Lucas didn''t utter a word ofint. In fact, he seemed to relish the simple meal.


    Barbara had likely spent all her earnings on her sister''s treatment, leaving little to cover household expenses.


    After the meal, Lucas didn''t linger. He left the estate, but instead of heading home, he rounded a corner. Waiting for him there was a woman dressed in white, as if she had been expecting him.


    If Barbara had seen this woman, she would have been shocked¡ªbecause standing there was none other than Florence, the renowned doctor treating her sister.


    "Thank you for your hard work, Doctor Florence," Lucas said, bowing slightly. "What''s the current status of Captain Jean''s condition?"


    "To be honest, it''s not good," Florence sighed. "With my skills alone, it''ll be very difficult to save her."


    Lucas''s brow furrowed. "So, she''s going to die?"


    "Not necessarily. While there are very few ways to save her, there are plenty of methods to keep her from dying," Florence replied, narrowing her eyes.


    "That''s all I need," Lucas exhaled in relief. "No matter what method, make sure to keep Jean alive."


    "Mr. Lucas, if I may speak frankly, from a medical perspective, this is pointless," Florence said. "Even if we keep her alive, she won''t regain consciousness. She''ll be no different from the dead. Maintaining her life will also require arge amount of Mora. Given the Gunnhildr family''s current financial state, I doubt they''ll be able to afford it."


    "Just charge a symbolic fee for the treatment¡ªnot too much, but not too little either," Lucas said as he handed Florence a check. "I''ll cover the rest of the expenses."


    "I don''t know why you''re doing this, but money is money, after all," Florence epted the check. "If you''re willing to pay, then why not?"


    Lucas wasn''t acting out of kindness. He knew Jean was Barbara''s only emotional support. If Jean were to die, Barbara''s resolve would crumble, and she wouldn''t be able to continue as an idol.


    ---


    [Age 26: The poprity of the "Dandelion Song" idol group exploded, surpassing previous idols and solidifying their ce in the industry.]


    There was little left that Lucas could teach Barbara, but he had many ways to keep her by his side. He realized he was starting to feel dependent on the little nun.


    Whether it was in his vi, the Gunnhildr estate, the quiet dance studiote at night, or even the dressing room before a show¡ªany ce could be their battleground.


    One minute, Barbara might be exhausted from backstage battles; the next, she would be on stage, full of energy, giving a powerful performance.


    Watching her energetically sing and dance on stage, while carefully hiding the "knowledge" he had taught her, gave Lucas an unprecedented thrill.


    Barbara had be the face of Mondstadt''s idol scene, and her infectious voice was rekindling the spirit of a city once left in despair by the dragon disaster.


    But if her fans knew about her "little secrets," what would they think?


    Yes, it was time to "reel in the." Barbara''s poprity had reached its peak. If her scandals were exposed now, it would be the final blow to both her and the Gunnhildr family.


    But Lucas hesitated. It wasn''t because he had grown soft. No, the truth was that Barbara''s career had brought enormous profits to his agency.


    On top of that, after experiencing Barbara, other women began to lose their appeal.


    There was something strange about the male desire for conquest. Barbara''s beauty, body, and abilities weren''t the best Lucas had ever encountered, but seeing this once-innocent idol, adored by millions, submit to him gave him unparalleled satisfaction.


    So, he decided to let Barbara "grow" a little longer. When the time was right, he would destroy herpletely.


    For now, he maintained his vignce. By using the identity of Raiden Mai, he stayed close to Barbara, both to observe her and to extract her innermost thoughts.


    ---


    [Age 27: Maybe it was because Raiden Mai was slightly older than Barbara, or maybe it was their time spent together, but Barbara began to see Raiden as a trusted confidant, like a sister. ]


    [Initially, their interactions were limited to things like shopping and eating together.]


    [But gradually, their closeness deepened, to the point where Barbara would now bathe with Raiden and even sleep in the same bed.]


    [Lucas didn''t think much of it. After all, as long as he and Raiden Mai didn''t appear together, there was no issue. Whether it was Barbara clinging to one body or the other, it made no difference to him.]


    [That evening, after their rehearsal, Barbara used the excuse of "it''s toote" to once again stay in Raiden Mai''s room.]


    ---


    [Entering Immersive Mode]


    Huh?


    -----


    Author''s Note: Pfft I wonder how far this mf will go for his ns... What if barbara pegg.. pegs him? STOP DONT LEAVE IT WAS JUST A JOKE


    Anyways... throw your stones!!!

 Chapter 42: Villain Simulator, Ch 42

    <h4>Chapter 42: Viin Simtor, Ch 42</h4>


    Before Lucas could even process what was happening, the scene shifted, and he found himself in Raiden Mai''s bedroom.


    He was lying on the bed, and Barbara, fresh out of the bath and wrapped in a towel, slowly walked into the room.


    In the two years that had passed, though Barbara''s public persona had remained unchanged, her appearance and figure had matured considerably. Her golden hair cascaded down, and her once-childish features had be much more refined.


    He had to admit¡ªBarbara and Jean were indeed sisters.


    In the game, the difference in their ages and outfits made the two seem quite distinct. But now, as Barbara stood before him, Lucas could clearly see the resemnce to Jean, especially in a certain... striking feature they shared, emblematic of the Gunnhildr family.


    Lucas was confident that when their mother gave birth to the two sisters, both were certainly delivered naturally.


    "Mai," Barbara smiled softly as her towel slipped down. "What do you think of my new outfit?"


    Raiden Mai was taken aback. Beneath the towel was a mature ensemble, a stark contrast to Barbara''s usual innocent idol image, yet it exuded a strange allure.


    "It looks... pretty good, Barbara," Raiden Mai responded awkwardly, nodding. "Why the sudden change in style?"


    "This is for the President," Barbara said without hesitation. "Do you think he''ll like it?"


    For me? Lucas thought, surprised. Barbara''s trying to please me?


    He had always assumed that Barbara''s pliance" up until now was merely an act.


    "The President already likes you a lot," Raiden Mai smiled uneasily. "Whether it''s as an idol or... something else, you''re his number one."


    "That''s not enough," Barbara said, sitting gracefully on the bed, her eyes dark and serious. "I want to be the only one in his eyes. So, Mai, will you help me practice?"


    "Practice? Practice what?" Raiden Mai had a sinking feeling about this.


    "Practice making sure the President can''t leave me," Barbara said earnestly. "Mai, you''re experienced, aren''t you?"


    Well, as a man, yes, that''s true, Lucas thought.


    "For a girl, that''s not exactly apliment," Raiden Mai replied helplessly. "Even if you say that, I''m still a girl. How could I help you practice?"


    "It''s okay. I... bought some things in private," Barbara gestured to a bulging bag in the corner of the room. "Mai, only you can help me."


    Raiden Mai hesitated for a moment, but then, thinking that Barbara''s "training" would ultimately benefit him, he reluctantly agreed. "Alright, since... we''re best friends."


    And so, Raiden Mai had no choice but to be Barbara''s "practice dummy."


    Technically, as a "doll," Raiden Mai shouldn''t have felt anything at all, but the sensations were surprisingly real throughout the process.


    As a doll, Raiden Mai experienced sensation through the feedback of his consciousness. In essence, because the doll had fingers, his mind generated a sense of touch. Because the doll had eyes, his mind produced sight.


    So, when additional "attachments" were added to the doll, the consciousness automatically "installed drivers" that adapted and created corresponding sensations.


    Hourster.


    "Thank you so much, Mai," Barbaray beside Raiden Mai, full of gratitude. "You were so cooperative; it was like... it was real."


    No kidding¡ªit was real!


    "R-Right..." Raiden Mai sighed, exhausted. "After all, an idol''s primary job is to perform. And besides, we''re... best friends."


    "Good thing you''ve cut ties with the President," Barbara said with a serene, angelic smile, her eyes narrowing. "Otherwise... even if you were Mai, I wouldn''t let you off."


    For some reason, Barbara''s angelic smile sent a shiver down Raiden Mai''s spine.


    Over the past two years, Barbara had changed in ways that even she might not have noticed.


    On stage, she was still the bright, innocent 18-year-old nun idol. But in reality, her once-pure soul had long since been stained with colors that Lucas had painted upon her.


    ---


    [The poprity of "Dandelion Song" continued to soar. Not only that, but Raiden Mai, who had initially held the center position, now shared that spotlight with Barbara.]


    [Oddly enough, Venti, who never cared about fame, was also rapidly gaining poprity, especially among female fans, which was quite different from Barbara and Raiden Mai, whose fanbases were predominantly male.]


    [Meanwhile, Lilina''s poprity remained lukewarm. Though her "clumsy cat-girl" persona attracted some attention, many felt her performance was too rehearsed. Additionally, some old scandals had resurfaced, andpared to the other three members, any small advantage she once had hadpletely disappeared.]


    [In an effort to further expand the influence of "Dandelion Song," Lucas announced ns for a major idol festival in Mondstadt in two months. The festival would invite several high-profile idol groups and donate all proceeds to the city''s reconstruction efforts.]


    [Lilina approached you afterward, pleading for a chance to shine during the festival. "I know you''re pushing Barbara right now," she said, "but considering the time we''ve spent together, please... give me a shot!"]


    [To you, Lilina was already a pawn that had outlived its usefulness. Faced with her desperate request, your response was...]


    [1. "Sorry, thepany doesn''t have any extra resources to waste."]


    [2. "''We''? Who''s ''we''? If you want something, fight for it."]


    [3. "You? Compete with Barbara? You must be joking."]


    In the past, the choices always left some room for negotiation. But this time, none of the options offered Lilina a way out.


    "Let''s go with the second one."


    [You sneered and said, "''We''? Who''s ''we''? If you want something, go fight for it." You noticed the hatred in Lilina''s eyes, but it didn''t bother you in the least. You had dealt with countless women in simr situations, and you had never left behind any evidence.]


    [You thought Lilina''s issue had been settled, but one day, after you finished your daily rehearsal as Raiden Mai, Barbara approached you with a recording device in hand, asking you to help her record something.]


    "Enter Immersive Mode."


    Lucas, suspicious of what was happening, immediately activated Immersive Mode.


    [Entered Immersive Mode]


    As Raiden Mai, you now held a delicate recording device, hidden behind a wall, watching Barbara in the practice room. It seemed like she was waiting for someone.


    Sure enough, after a while, the door opened, and Lilina entered.


    You were shocked¡ªBarbara had been waiting for Lilina?


    Though they were in the same group, their rtionship was distant at best. Even though they acted friendly on stage, the two rarely interacted in real life.


    "Hello, Lilina," Barbara greeted her warmly, as she always did. "What did you want to talk about?"


    "Hmph..." Lilina scoffed. "There''s no need to pretend here. No one else is around."


    Barbara shook her head, looking hurt. "I don''t understand what you mean..."


    "Let me make this clear¡ªI know everything about you and Lucas," Lilina said, her cute face now twisted with anger. "If you don''t want me to spill your secrets, you''ll..."


    "...Obey your every word, right?"


    Unexpectedly, Barbara remained calm. It was as if she had taken off a mask. She smiled and said, "Lilina, it seems you still don''t understand why you''ve fallen so far out of favor."


    "No... no one cares..." Lilina trembled with anger, muttering, "You''re just a bit more popr than me..."


    "It''s not just a little, it''s at least fifty to sixty times more," Barbara continued her mocking, "A woman as talentless, ugly, and old as you can''tpare to the cute and lovely Barbara."


    Hidden nearby, Raiden Mai couldn''t help but feel shocked.


    Since when had Barbara be so harsh? Not only that, but she said those cruel words with the same gentle smile, as if she were just having a casual conversation with a teammate.


    "You little¡ª!" Lilina, enraged, couldn''t hold back anymore and pped Barbara across the face. "If that''s the case, I''ll ruin that pretty face of yours!"


    Barbara''s delicate body crumpled to the ground, and in her fury, Lilina''s nails left a faint scratch on Barbara''s smooth cheek.


    Raiden Mai momentarily forgot about the recording still running and immediately rushed out to help Barbara up, asking, "Barbara, are you alright?"


    Damn!


    An idol''s face was one of their most important assets!


    Luckily, the injury wasn''t too severe. Otherwise, it might have affected the uing idol festival in two months.


    The sudden appearance of Raiden Mai shocked Lilina, who eximed, "You... what are you doing here?"


    "I asked Mai to be here," Barbara calmly wiped the scratch on her face and smiled. "You recorded everything, right?"


    "Yes..." Raiden Mai pulled out the recording device. "Every bit of it."


    Realizing what had happened, Lilina''s face twisted in disbelief. "Barbara, you... you set me up!"


    How could she have known that the seemingly innocent and naive Barbara, who always appeared tock any scheming nature, hadid a trap for her?


    "I''m just protecting myself," Barbara said coldly. "Lilina dear, ready to say goodbye to your idol career?"


    Barbara''s transformation was so unbelievable that even Raiden Mai, watching from the side, felt conflicted.


    Was she still the Barbara he once knew?


    ---


    [A few dayster, photos of Lilina pping Barbara and injuring her face were stered across various newspapers and magazines. Lilina quickly lost a massive number of fans. If Teyvat had social media, she would have been torn apart by online trolls.]


    [Although you knew the truth, you didn''t defend Lilina. Instead, you took advantage of the situation to officially kick her out of the group, citing "damaging thepany''s image" and fining her a hefty breach of contract fee.]


    [Over the past two years, aside from "Dandelion Song," your agency had sessfullyunched several other idol groups. Of course, their sess was built on the "corpses" of countless dream-chasing girls.]


    [Those who hadn''t yet gained fame barely survived on small stipends. And if they tried to break their contracts, they would face massive penalties. Even the more well-known idols weren''t much better off; despite their morous appearances, their share of the profits was pitiful.]


    [To you, the idols dazzling on stage were merely tools for umting wealth. You had be the "king" of the industry, your fortune rivaling even Ningguang, the Tianquan of Liyue.]


    [Achievement: Billionaire]


    [Talent Unlocked: Capitalist]


    [Effect: You can purchase any mercial establishment" and turn it into your asset. The system will automatically estimate the value, and you only need to pay 80% of the price. However, any purchased establishment cannot be resold for one year.]


    Well, it seems I''ve really be a capitalist.


    Being able to buy properties at an 80% price is tempting, though since they can''t be resold for a year, flipping them for profit might not work. It seems like it''s best to focus on profitable businesses first.


    Maybe I should buy Wanmin Restaurant in Liyue or the Good Hunter in Mondstadt?


    Or, just like in the simtion, I could start an idol agency?


    The idea was good, but even with the discount, Lucas didn''t have enough money for such big purchases yet. For now, earning more money would be a priority.


    ---


    [Age 28: The idol festival was held as scheduled on New Year''s Day, attracting countless high-profile idol groups to Mondstadt. You knew that if this festival concluded sessfully, your career would reach its peak.]


    [Perhaps due to your excitement, just before "Dandelion Song" was set to perform, you summoned Barbara backstage for ast-minute "coaching session."]


    "Enter Immersive Mode."


    [Immersive Mode Activated.]


    For some reason, during this session, Barbara seemed more serious and driven than ever before. In her eyes, you could see a mix of emotions¡ªhatred, regret, reluctance...


    After it ended, you lit a cigarette as usual. In reality, you couldn''t stand the smell of smoke, but in the simtion, you had be quite the smoker.


    "Do your best during the performance," you smiled. "Honestly, you''re the real star of today''s idol festival."


    "Unfortunately..." Barbara said softly, "this will be thest time."


    "What?" Lucas hadn''t grasped the meaning behind her words.


    "I know about the deal between you and Doctor Florence," Barbara said coldly, her eyes like ice. "You''ve been keeping my sister alive just so you could keep me as your captive bird, isn''t that right?"


    "N-No! That''s not it!" Lucas hastily exined. "I did make a deal with her, but only to keep your sister alive. I never told her not to heal Jean! Her condition is simply incurable..."


    "I figured as much," Barbara''s expression turned bitter. "Jean''s never going to wake up. Rather than letting her live without dignity, it''s better if she''s gone. So, I stopped her medication. She passed away this morning."


    Lucas''s heart jolted. Before he could respond, the announcement for their performance echoed from outside.


    "Don''t worry," Barbara said as she walked out without looking back, "today''s performance will be perfect."


    Lucas had many things he wanted to say to Barbara, but the performance was the priority now. So, he shifted his consciousness back into Raiden Mai''s body.


    But something was different this time. Barbara, who usually performed in her signature white attire, had instead donned a ck stage outfit, contrasting sharply with her "pure white angel" persona.


    Her makeup had also changed, shifting from cute and innocent to a dark, gothic style.


    Surprisingly, this sudden transformation didn''t stir anyints. In fact, it only seemed to heighten the audience''s excitement.


    Perhaps they weren''t just in love with the persona Barbara had created¡ªthey loved her.


    Because the audience was sorge, the stage had been specially built, towering at least seven or eight meters high to give everyone a clear view of the idols.


    The performance went smoothly. Barbara, almost as if pouring all her life force into this final show, gave it everything she had. And Raiden Mai, dancing beside her, was the only one who truly understood just how deeply Barbara was putting her all into this.


    ------


    Author''s Note: Sooo I wonder whom you guys support..? Barbara or Lucas ??


    Vote your endings! (stones too)


    Also ik we reached 300 stones so extra chap in a while!

 Chapter 43: Villain Simulator, Ch 43

    <h4>Chapter 43: Viin Simtor, Ch 43</h4>


    As the final lyric ended, the energy of the entire venue reached its absolute peak once more.


    "Barbara!"


    "Barbara!"


    "Barbara!"


    Countless glow sticks and neon signs lit up the night, making it as bright as day.


    "Thank you, everyone, foring to my performance. Over the years, I''ve only been able to keep going because of your support. But..." Barbara bowed deeply to the audience, tears in her eyes, and smiled as she said, "Today might be myst performance."


    With those words, the previously loud and lively venue suddenly fell intoplete silence.


    After all, Barbara was the most popr idol in all of Teyvat. Not only that, she had be the face of Mondstadt, and her singing had inspired countless people. It''s fair to say that Barbara yed a key role in helping Mondstadt emerge from its dark times in just a few years.


    "I''m sorry, I''ve been lying to all of you," Barbara said, carefully enunciating each word. "I''m not as perfect as everyone thinks."


    Raiden Mai sensed that something bad was about to happen, but... it was already toote for her to stop it.


    "The truth is, I''ve been in an improper rtionship with the president of my agency... Lucas," Barbara revealed without hesitation. "And not just that, many other girls in the agency have been exploited by him as tools for profit."


    Barbara''s voice, carried through the microphone, reached far into the crowd. Every single word was heard clearly by the audience.


    Damn it! Where''s the sound engineer? Why isn''t the sound being cut off right now?


    Lucas wanted to rush back to his own body, but it was already toote.


    Barbara''s "speech" continued. She pulled out a stack of photos from her clothing, saying, "These are all the evidence I''ve collected over the years while staying by Lucas''s side. They document all of his unspeakable crimes."


    As soon as she finished speaking, she tossed the photos into the air, sending them fluttering down onto the audience like snowkes,nding in the hands of countless fans.


    "In addition to these photos, I''ve also collected evidence of Lucas bribing officials and forcing idols under his agency into underground deals. All of this has already been submitted," Barbara continued. "I know I alone may not be able to take on the capital behind Lucas, but I hope that you all will stand up and join me... on the side of justice."


    So, I underestimated this little rabbit, didn''t I?


    Raiden Mai finally realized why Barbara had been trying so hard to "please" her all this time¡ªit had all been to gather evidence of her crimes.


    After spending her whole life scheming and taking calcted steps, Raiden Mai never expected to be brought down by Barbara!


    "For the past three years, I''ve been in immense pain, but I''ve also been very happy. Standing on stage as an idol and bringing joy to all of you has been the greatest fortune of my life," Barbara said as she walked step by step toward the edge of the stage. "However, someone as dirty as me no longer deserves to stand on stage in a ''pure white'' image..."


    "Everyone, thank you, and... goodbye."


    With those final words, Barbara leapt off the stage.


    Indeed, she no longer had any reason to keep living. Her sister, the pir of her life, had passed away, and her shameful past had been exposed to everyone.


    Sister, I''ming to join you.


    "Barbara!"


    In that moment, Raiden Mai seemed to forget her hatred for Barbara. She rushed forward, trying to save her, but it was toote. Barbara''s body fell like a puppet with its strings cut, plummeting toward the hard concrete ground below the stage.


    [You have entered text mode]


    [Due to the evidence provided by Barbara, you are being charged with multiple crimes, and many of the trainees and idols you once oppressed have bravely stepped forward as witnesses, inspired by Barbara.]


    [As for Barbara, her suicide attempt did not seed. Just as she was about to fall, a sudden gust of wind caused the nearby filming set to copse, cushioning her fall. Though she lost consciousness, she survived.]


    [Overnight, your reputation waspletely destroyed. Over the years, Barbara had been by your side, quietly gathering evidence, leaving you no chance of redemption. More severe than any legal punishment, your reputation, your connections, and everything you had built would be obliterated by the media''s negative portrayal.]


    [It''s true that capital isn''t easy to overthrow, and Barbara''s actions won''t shake the foundations of it, but you know full well that your name is ruined beyond repair. Even if you escape legal consequences, you will be condemned for the rest of your life.]


    [Yourwyer tells you he can try to reduce your sentence, but yourpany will take a massive hit due to the damage to your reputation. You decide...]


    [1. Show no remorse.]


    [2. Commit suicide to atone.]


    [3. Pull off an escape.]


    As for the three options, the first two are easy to understand. The third, "pull off an escape," means...


    "I choose the third one!" Lucas answered.


    [After a night of deep contemtion, you finally make up your mind. The next day, people find your hanging body and a suicide note. The note expresses your guilt toward Barbara, and you dere that you are leaving yourpany and all remaining assets to her. Of course, this is not an act of kindness. It''s all part of your n.]


    [However, this is merely a diversion. Someone as cunning as you would never leave yourself without an escape route. News of your death spreads quickly across Teyvat, and your "body" is hastily buried. No one notices that your coffin is filled with nothing but stones.]


    [The world believes the corrupt businessman Lucas is dead, but you''ve already hidden away enough wealth in various countries to live in luxury for several lifetimes. You are well-prepared to make aeback.]


    [Of course, you''re not nning to let Barbara off that easily. You''vee up with the perfect n for revenge. As you leave Mondstadt, you once again enter Raiden Mai''s body, preparing for a final goodbye to Barbara.]


    [You have sessfully entered immersive mode.]


    "Barbara!" Raiden Mai cried out in excitement. "You''re finally awake!"


    Indeed, it was Lucas now inhabiting Raiden Mai''s body. While the simtor had exposed his crimes, in reality, Lucas harbored no real hatred toward Barbara. To him, the events of the simtor were still just virtual.


    "Is this... is this heaven? No, someone like me doesn''t deserve to be in heaven..." Barbara muttered as she noticed Raiden Mai by her bedside. Surprised, she asked, "Mai? You''re here too... does that mean you''re also dead?"


    "You''re not dead! You''re very much alive!" Raiden Mai, with a face full of relief, said. "It must have been the Anemo Archon who saved you."


    "Really?" A glimmer of hope appeared in Barbara''s eyes, but it quickly dimmed again. "But even if I lived, what''s the point?"


    Her sister was gone, and her idol image was shattered beyond repair.


    "Of course there''s a point," Raiden Mai reached out a hand toward Barbara, smiling. "There are still many people in this world who support you."


    "But..." Barbara said emotionally, "After everything that happened, no one could possibly love an idol like me anymore."


    "Are you kidding?" Raiden Mai opened the curtains, letting the sunlight pour in. "Look!"


    Barbara supported herself and walked over to the window, and the sight before her filled her eyes with tears.


    Outside the window, arge crowd of fans had gathered on the open ground without anyone noticing. They were all holding up signs filled with words of encouragement.


    "Barbara, get well soon!"


    "We''ll always be with you, Barbara!"


    "No matter what happens, Barbara will always be our pure white angel!"


    "The Dandelion Song will never end!"


    ...


    "Everyone..." Barbara covered her mouth at the sight, tears streaming down her cheeks inrge drops.


    "So, take good care of yourself and recover," Raiden Mai gently patted Barbara on the shoulder, her expression soft. "I believe that after you take over the agency, you''ll be able to create a whole new future."


    [Entering text mode]


    [Three monthster, Barbara was sessfully discharged from the hospital and inherited Lucas''spany. Although the stock price plummeted, Barbara decided to take over. She aimed to prove that idols could be sessful without relying on dirty rules and oppressive contracts.]


    [Barbara disbanded the "Dandelion Song" group and focused on running the idol agency, implementing major reforms. Thanks to the poprity she had built up, thepany''s early development went quite well.]


    [However, she quickly realized that while her ideals were beautiful, putting them into practice was incredibly difficult. Without the binding power of contracts, those so-called "idols" had no motivation to train. Naturally, idols without talent were not epted by fans.]


    [Barbara finally understood that while your methods were "cruel," they had stood the test of the market. In the end, her dream shattered along with thepany''s financial copse. Not only did thepany go bankrupt, but she also fell into significant debt.]


    ...


    [Age 30: After several years of silence, you rebranded yourself and made aeback, once again entering the idol agency business. This time, you were much more cautious, and with your past experience, your agency quickly gained traction,unching several popr idol groups.]


    [You knew that the rules of this world had never changed. Barbara''s dreams were beautiful, but in the end, they were just dreams.]


    [Age 31: One day, your agency weed a new batch of trainees. Among them, you noticed a familiar figure¡ªBarbara. Due to the massive debt she had incurred, she had no choice but to return to the idol industry. She sought out the most popr agency at the time¡ªyour newly establishedpany. In just a few short years, you had regained everything you had lost.]


    [Now came your favorite part: the interviews. Facing Barbara''s beautiful but weary face, you smiled¡ªa smile you hadn''t worn in a long time. "Hello there, my little nun. Do you remember what I asked you to do during your first interview?"]


    [Although you had changed your appearance, Barbara recognized your voice and smile. Her face showed utter shock, which eventually turned into a bitter smile.]


    [Everything seemed toe full circle, and your little toy had returned to your hands.]


    [Age 32: Although Barbara had passed the prime age for an idol, her talent, looks, and the fan base she had umted over the years quickly earned her poprity once again.]


    [Of course, as punishment for her betrayal, you would send her "little gifts" every time she performed. While ying with a remote control, you would watch her struggle to keep up with the choreography.]


    [Age 33: The Gunnhildr family, after losing both Jean and Barbara, finally met its demise. You bought their estate andnd, converting it into a cemetery, as if to dere the family''s final fate.]


    [Of course, you didn''t forget Kent. He wasn''t left jobless but instead was given the role of caretaker for the cemetery.]


    ...


    [Age 87: Barbara passed away. You buried her in the Gunnhildr family cemetery, right next to her sister, fulfilling her final wish.]


    [Age 91: Sustained by massive medical bills, you managed to prolong your life. One ordinary morning, you quietly passed away.]


    [This life simtion has ended.]


    [Cause of death: Natural causes.]


    [Comprehensive evaluation: Capital never changes.]


    So, this is how it ends, huh?


    [Your reward has been sent and is avable for viewing at any time.]


    [Please choose one of the following talents as your innate ability: "Puppet Master" (Blue), "Chicken, You''re Too Beautiful" (Blue), or "Idol Master" (Green).]


    There didn''t seem to be much of a choice, the other two were too niche, and only "Puppet Master" had practical use.


    [Puppet Master (Blue): You are naturally gifted with a fully realistic puppet and can transfer your soul into it, temporarily acting through the puppet.]


    [Due topleting four simtions, you have earned an additional reward: Pocket Waypoint.]


    [Effect: You can set an anchor at a specified location and instantly teleport there. Activation requires one minute of preparation, and the cooldown time is 24 hours.]


    The system had kept its promise and granted the Pocket Waypoint as a reward.


    However, based on the description of the item, it takes a minute to prepare, meaning it''s not very useful in emergency escape situations.


    Still, with this tool, Lucas no longer had to worry about being stranded far away in case of an emergency back in Liyue.


    ...


    Upon exiting the simtor, Lucas slowly opened his eyes.


    Unlike the previous simtion, this one wasn''t very long, and the story was far less dramatic. Although he still yed the role of the "viin," his hands were free of blood.


    "Yawn~"


    Lucas yawned contentedly and was about to turn over and go back to sleep when he was startled to find someone lying next to him.


    It wasn''t moving, but it was soft and warm.


    Lucas jumped up in fright, hurriedly turning on the light, only to see a tall, purple-haired young woman lying next to him.


    It was none other than "Raiden Mai"!


    [Due to the activation of "Puppet Master," the system has delivered the puppet to your side. Please check.]


    Check, my foot! Does your delivery service drop things off directly in bed?


    Though initially startled, Lucas quickly regained hisposure.


    Sure enough, the "woman" in front of himypletely still, her eyes wide open yet devoid of any color, truly like a doll.


    But the more he looked at it, the more familiar the doll seemed.


    It felt strangely simr to Raiden Shogun...


    Wait a minute, both are dolls, both carry the surname "Raiden," and they look so alike...


    Could Raiden Mai and Raiden Shogun have been made by the same creator?


    After all, the process of creating puppets likely involved many failed attempts, so having "wed versions" like Raiden Mai wouldn''t be unusual.


    So, could this doll not actually be from the system?


    [The system never said... that the doll was made by the system.]


    -----


    Author''s Note: Wellll~ Here ends our barbara arc! And as some of you guys voted... Yeah Lucas won! Now we are gonna have some real life interactions with one of my fav characters in genshin! Guess who''s she?


    (Click here for hint )

 Chapter 44: Villain Simulator, Ch 44

    <h4>Chapter 44: Viin Simtor, Ch 44</h4>


    "Where did this dolle from?" Lucas asked, feeling a bit frantic. "Could it have been stolen from Raiden Shogun''s stash?"


    [I figured she wasn''t using it anyway...]


    So it was stolen!


    This system is too sneaky! System rewards that are stolen? Did you pickpocket or something?


    [Rx, Raiden Shogun''s storage is filled with abandoned dolls. It probably won''t be noticed.]


    "''Probably won''t be noticed...''" Lucas mumbled, suddenly realizing something. He quickly started inspecting Raiden Mai''s body.


    [As expected of you, not even sparing a doll]


    "I knew it!" Lucas pushed aside Raiden Mai''s long hair, pointing to a serial number on the back of her neck. "Look, this doll is numbered. If Raiden Shogun ever decides to clean out her inventory, she''s definitely going to notice one is missing! System, what should I do?"


    [...Oh, hey, isn''t that our neighbor Duoshan? He''s gotten so tall since Ist saw him. Come here, let me hug you!]


    "You''re just a system! Don''t try to act like you''ve bumped into an old friend! Just send this thing back before Raiden Shogun notices!" Lucas smacked his forehead in frustration and squinted at the number on the back of Raiden Mai''s neck. "The serial number is... LD-0413?"


    The moment Lucas finished speaking, the doll suddenly sprang to life, flipping off the bed like a fish leaping out of water. In a mechanical voice, it spoke, "Serial number LD-0413, officially activated. Voice source confirmed. Owner recognition progress: 1%... 50%... 100%, ownership confirmed!"


    After saying this, Raiden Mai turned her gaze to Lucas and said, "Pleased to meet you, my master."


    A cold sweat began to trickle down Lucas''s forehead.


    He had thought that if the system returned the doll quickly enough, maybe it wouldn''t be a big deal.


    But now, it seemed this doll had already recognized him as its master.


    [Ownership confirmed. It seems there''s no going back now.]


    "Uh..." Lucas awkwardly said to Raiden Mai, "Can you... please do a factory reset?"


    "Thismand is not understood," Raiden Mai replied, expressionless. "Please give a more specificmand, Master."


    Looks like she can''t be reset. Of course, this is a doll, not a smartphone.


    "Never mind..." Lucas sighed. "Can you power down?"


    After all, suddenly having a living doll around wasn''t easy to manage. Now that the situation was set, the best option was to hide her somewhere no one would find.


    "Power down?" Raiden Mai tried to process the request. "Does Master wish for LD-0413 to initiate the self-destruct sequence?"


    "No, no, no!" Lucas quickly shook his head. "That''s not what I meant."


    [Tsk tsk, if she self-destructs, all your problems would be solved. You''re too soft-hearted.]


    It was true. If Raiden Mai self-destructed, there wouldn''t be any evidence left behind.


    But Lucas just couldn''t treat this doll, which looked so much like a real person, as a mere emotionless machine.


    "Wait!"


    An idea popped into Lucas''s mind. He stretched out his hand, and in his palm appeared a delicate "teapot," which quickly grewrger as it spun in his hand¡ªit was the "Serenitea Pot," a reward he had received from a loot box earlier.


    The Serenitea Pot''s effect was that it provided an "independent space" outside of Teyvat. If Raiden Mai were "stored" here, she would have no chance of being discovered.


    This was the first time Lucas had used the Serenitea Pot since receiving it.


    "Enter the Serenitea Pot!"


    With Lucas''smand, both he and Raiden Mai were sucked into the pot together.


    The sensation was simr to entering immersive mode.


    Before him was a beautifulndscape,plete with grasnds, forests, mountains, hills, and streams... everything you could think of.


    In the game, the "Serenitea Pot Realm" was just a tform surrounded by unreachable boundaries.


    But here, it felt like a true miniature world.


    The sight brought back memories for Lucas of his time grinding to craft furniture and buildings in the game.


    Lucas instructed, "You can live here for now."


    "Understood," Raiden Mai responded mechanically, "Please give me a task, Master."


    "A task?" Lucas scratched his cheek. "There''s nothing I really need you to do..."


    At those words, a hint of disappointment seemed to flicker in Raiden Mai''s eyes.


    Unlike Raiden Shogun, she didn''t have much of her own consciousness. But for a "machine" like her, being idle for too long was a cruel fate.


    "Ahem," Lucas thought for a moment and then said, "Why don''t you build some houses here?"


    He wasn''t particrly keen on creating a vacation resort inside the pot, he just wanted to give Raiden Mai something to do so she wouldn''t get bored.


    "Understood!" Raiden Mai''s spirits seemed to lift at the new task. She turned around and approached arge tree. A de shot out from her smooth arm, and with a swift sh, she cut the tree clean in half.


    Then, she retracted the de, and from her other arm, a chainsaw emerged with a buzzing sound, and she began sawing the wood into pieces.


    Her movements were so fluid and skilled that Lucas couldn''t help but think of a master craftsman.


    Wow, this isn''t a doll, it''s a full-on Swiss army knife.


    Raiden Shogun really knows how to make advanced stuff¡ªInazuma''s tech is definitely the best in Teyvat.


    ...


    Meanwhile, over in Mondstadt, the Knights of Favonius had their own little incident.


    Though it waste at night, the light in the Acting Grand Master''s office was still on. For Jean, working through the night was nothing unusual.


    *Knock knock knock...*


    Suddenly, there was a light knock at the door.


    "Come in," Jean said, rubbing her tired eyes. "The door isn''t locked."


    The door opened softly, and standing there, looking a bit distraught, was Barbara.


    "Barbara?" Jean was surprised. "What brings you here sote?"


    "I... I had a strange dream," Barbara said, wiping away the tears still lingering in the corners of her eyes. "Tonight, can I sleep with you, Sister?"


    Unlike the storyline in the simtor, in reality, Jean and Barbara were still sisters. However, due to their parents'' differing views, they parted ways at a young age.


    Jean remained with the Gunnhildr family, receiving a traditional knight''s education. She exhibited impressive talent from an early age and was blessed with a Vision. Now, at a young age, she had already be the Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius.


    Meanwhile, Barbara followed their father, Seamus Pegg, and became a nun at the Church of Favonius.


    Despite being separated from a young age, the bond between the two sisters remained strong. Still, for various reasons, they usually refrained from calling each other sisters in public.


    Jean wanted to remind Barbara of this, but seeing her pitiful expression, she softened and gently asked, "Is it another nightmare about the Stormterror attacking Mondstadt?"


    No, that wasn''t it at all!


    Barbara wasn''t as fragile as she seemed. In the dream where she became an idol, her sister had been severely injured andy in aa. In the end, Barbara had to help her sister end her life.


    So, upon waking from the dream, the first thing Barbara thought of was rushing to see her sister. Only after confirming that Jean was safe and sound did Barbara finally feel relieved.


    However, the content of the dream was far too shameful to share, so she nodded and said, "Y-yes, it was about the Stormterror."


    "Don''t worry," Jeanforted her. "Miss Keqing from Liyue Harbor just sent a letter saying they are preparing to send weapons and equipment. When the timees, I will lead the Knights of Favonius, along with the warriors of the family, to defeat Stormterror and restore peace to Mondstadt."


    Recalling the events of her dream, where Jean was gravely injured in the battle against Stormterror, Barbara blurted out, "No, you can''t!"


    "W-why not?" Jean was surprised. Barbara was usually calm and gentle, and it was rare for her to react so emotionally.


    "It''s n-nothing," Barbara said, trying to calm herself. "I''m just afraid you might get hurt."


    "Don''t worry. I''ll be fine, and so will everyone else," Jean reassured her. Then, as if remembering something, she added, "By the way, I might be a bit busy over the next couple of days. Could you help receive the representativeing from Liyue?"


    "Of course!" Barbara nodded and smiled. "I''d be happy to help ease your workload, Sister."


    A representative from Liyue, huh?


    Barbara looked out at the bright moon shining through the window, curious. What kind of person would it be?


    ...


    The next morning.


    At dawn, Lucas set out with a convoy carrying the equipment from Liyue Harbor.


    If traveling alone on horseback at top speed, one could reach Mondstadt in a day. However, with the convoy, the journey would take much longer¡ªat least two days.


    The trade route between Liyue and Mondstadt was generally safe, though asionally there were attacks by monsters or treasure hoarders.


    Recently, there had even been rumors of mutated monsters bing more aggressive. Some people imed to have encountered slimes ten times their usual size or Whopperflowers capable of extending vines to ensnare targets.


    Both the Millelith and the Adventurers'' Guild had dispatched people to investigate, but no significant discoveries had been made.


    Some even spected that these rumors were spread by convoypanies to inte their prices.


    Indeed, Liyue had dedicated convoypanies responsible for transporting goods or protecting merchants. However, this time, Keqing hadn''t hired any mercenaries.


    First, she trusted Lucas''s abilities. Second, she had already nted several skilled individuals within the convoy, and on top of that, Zhang Luo, the man who had introduced Lucas to Keqing, was also apanying them. He had extensive experience inmerce and was more than capable of handling any emergencies that might arise.


    By noon, the convoy had already traveled dozens of miles.


    "Brother Lucas, I knew I wasn''t wrong about you," Zhang Luo said, riding beside him with a look of admiration. "You''ve gained Miss Keqing''s trust so quickly."


    "I''ve just been lucky," Lucas replied modestly with a smile. "Besides, if I hadn''t met you, I probably wouldn''t have this opportunity."


    "Well, Brother Lucas, when you make it big, don''t forget about me," Zhang Luoughed heartily. "At this pace, we should reach Mondstadt by tomorrow afternoon. When we get there, I''ll treat you to drinks at the Cat''s Tail."


    "Isn''t ''Angel''s Share'' the more famous tavern in Mondstadt?" Lucas asked curiously.


    "Master Diluc''s tavern does have excellent wine," Zhang Luo nodded, "but if you haven''t tried Miss Diona''s special cocktails, you''d regret it for the rest of your life."


    "Oh, by the way," Lucas suddenly asked, "what do you think of the recent rumors about ''monster mutations'' in the area?"


    "I haven''t seen anything like that myself," Zhang Luo stroked his chin, "but ording to my sources, there have been reports of strange Hilichurls in the area."


    "Strange Hilichurls?" Lucas frowned. "Aren''t all Hilichurls strange?"


    "No, I mean like female Hilichurls who look almost human," Zhang Luo said with a mysterious grin. "It''s said they knock out strong men with wooden clubs and carry them away. There have been more than a dozen cases of men disappearing around here."


    "Seriously?" Lucas felt a chill down his spine. "Why would they kidnap men?"


    "No one knows for sure. Some say it''s to kill them for food," Zhang Luo shook his head. "Others say they''re taken as ves. Who knows?"


    Lucas nodded thoughtfully, but he still couldn''t picture what a Hilichurl that looked like a human woman would be like.


    "Let''s take a break and grab a bite to eat here."


    The convoy halted beside ake, and Lucas ordered the group to rest for a while.


    However, just as he took a sip of water, a faint cry for help came from the nearby forest. "Help... help!"


    "Someone''s calling for help?" Lucas was startled. "Zhang Luo, did you hear that?"


    "Brother Lucas, it''s best not to get involved," Zhang Luo replied calmly, waving his hand. "In a ce like this, hearing someone suddenly cry for help is very suspicious, don''t you think?"


    Lucas was kind-hearted but not foolish. He quickly realized that Zhang Luo had a point.


    "As the saying goes, ''Don''t enter the forest, and don''t cross water,''" Zhang Luo continued. "There could be a trap set up in there."


    Lucas nodded, but the cries for help continued, growing weaker and more pitiful.


    Eventually, Lucas couldn''t suppress his instincts any longer. He stood up and said, "Brother Zhang, you stay here and rest. I''ll go check it out. Don''t worry, with my skills, even if I run into danger, I can handle myself."


    Lucas wasn''t bragging. Even though heckedbat experience, the rewards he had umted were more than enough to handle strong enemies.


    "Sigh."


    Zhang Luo shook his head with a wry smile. "Brother Lucas, you''re too kind-hearted for your own good. You''ll suffer for it one day. But fine, I can''t stop you. Just remember, if anything goes wrong, call for help immediately."


    Zhang Luo had faith in Lucas''s abilities. Besides, there were plenty of skilled fighters in the convoy, so even if Lucas left for a while, they could still fend off any threats.


    "Thanks!"


    With that, Lucas quickly headed into the forest.


    Though the cries were faint now, he followed the sound deeper into the woods.


    There, hanging upside down from the branch of arge tree, was a blonde girl!


    ----


    Author''s Note: Extra Chapter cuz why not :)


    Vote more powahhhhstones!!!!

 Chapter 45: Villain Simulator, Ch 45

    <h4>Chapter 45: Viin Simtor, Ch 45</h4>


    However, the girl''s attire seemed quite peculiar¡ªalmost like an overly borate cosy outfit.


    Not only that, she wore a ck eyepatch, leaving only one emerald-green eye visible, gleaming like jade.


    Of course, since she was hanging upside down, her dress wasn''t defying gravity like those you see in anime. As a result, her delicate and beautiful figure was fully exposed in front of Lucas.


    "W-where are you looking?!" The blonde girl, realizing her embarrassing situation, started to wriggle and blushed as she said, "Hurry up and release me, your princessmands it!"


    "Oh... oh, right!"


    Snapping back to reality, Lucas reached out toward the thick branch she was hanging from. With a snap, the branch¡ªabout as thick as a bowl¡ªbroke off, causing the girl to immediately fall.


    This was thanks to the [Dendro God Gene] ability within Lucas, which allowed him to control nts to a certain extent. A mere branch like this was no challenge.


    "Ahhhh!"


    The girl screamed as she fell, but Lucas quickly leaped forward and caught her safely in his arms.


    [You''ve gained 1,000 virtue points!]


    It seemed this trip wasn''t in vain after all.


    "Don''t worry," Lucas said gently. "You''re safe now."


    The girl cautiously opened her eyes, muttering, "That... that was terrifying..."


    But halfway through her sentence, she suddenly cleared her throat and, with a deeper, more dramatic voice, continued, "I, who descended from another realm, fell from the heavens unscathed. This height is nothing to someone like me..."


    "Is that so?" Lucas responded with a slightly awkward smile. "However..."


    Drip...


    Golden droplets fell from her clothes onto the ground, shattering into sparkling fragments.


    The girl stiffened and looked down at the small puddle forming beneath her. Her already flushed cheeks from hanging upside down grew even redder.


    "D-don''t misunderstand!" the girl''s face was now hot enough to fry an egg. "That''s just... just my sweat!"


    "It seems you have quite the, uh, active sweat nds," Lucas said, trying to ease her embarrassment. "There''s a spring over there. Why don''t you wash up?"


    ...


    The girl had now immersed herself in the cool spring water. Separated by arge rock, she began to exin her situation to Lucas.


    "I, Fischl, am the Prinzessin der Verurteilung, Sovereign of Immernachtreich" the girl introduced herself, her teeth slightly chattering as she spoke. "After descending into this realm, I''ve disguised myself as an investigator for the Adventurers Guild."


    As expected...


    Lucas had already guessed her identity.


    After all, with her entric outfit, eyepatch, and the way she referred to herself as "Prinzessin," it was hard not to think of Fischl from the game.


    Strangely, though, Fischl''s familiar, Oz, wasn''t with her.


    In the game, Fischl was a full-fledged "chuunibyou" (delusional teenager). She was deeply immersed in her own fantasy world, firmly believing herself to be the heroine from the fictional novel The Chronicles of the Princess Fischl.


    "So, you''re the Prinzessin?" Lucas said, ying along. "It''s an honor to meet you. My name is Lucas, and I''m from Liyue."


    "W-what did you call me?" Fischl''s voice wavered, though it was unclear whether it was from the cold or excitement.


    "Prinzessin... der Verurteilung?" Lucas repeated.


    "Y-yes! It seems you''re not like the ordinary fools," Fischl said, clearly pleased. Then, suddenly, she seemed to realize something. "Oz, look! Someone who recognizes my identity... Wait! Where''s my familiar?!"


    It was only then that Fischl realized her familiar, Oz, was nowhere to be found. She jumped out of the spring in a panic, shouting, "Oz! Where are you? Your princess summons you..."


    However, instead of Oz, what greeted her was Lucas, standing there awkwardly.


    "Um..."


    Lucas quickly averted his gaze. "Prinzessin, perhaps you should put on some clothes first. I''ve prepared clean ones¡ªthey''re right by the spring."


    Oh no...


    The Prinzessin had just been seenpletely exposed!


    In her panic, Fischl hadpletely forgotten there was a strange man nearby.


    But no, this wouldn''t do. If she screamed like any ordinary girl, he might think less of her. After all, he was one of the rare people who genuinely believed she was the Prinzessin der Verurteilung.


    "Don''t worry," Lucas reassured her. "I didn''t see anything."


    "Ahem, it wouldn''t matter even if you did," Fischl said, trying to suppress her embarrassment. She crossed her arms and added, "After all, it''s just a mere mortal body."


    "I get it" Lucas said,ughing awkwardly. "Please, just put on your clothes"


    Since her original outfit was soaked with "sweat," Fischl couldn''t wear it anymore. Lucas had exchanged some women''s clothes from the Virtue Points Shop.


    Fischl''sment on the new clothes was direct: "My royal attire is woven from the feathers of a thousand ck swans. This mundane fabric will only stifle my power."


    "Well, you''ll just have to make do for now, Prinzessin," Lucas shrugged, then asked, "By the way, the ''Oz'' you mentioned¡ªis that yourpanion?"


    "Yes, he''s my most loyal familiar," Fischl replied, clenching her fists. "He must have been captured by those Hilichurls who drank the blood of demons."


    "Hilichurls who drank demon blood?" Lucas asked, puzzled. "Is that a new kind of Hilichurl?"


    "They''re a devious lot!" Fischl fumed. "Not only do they look like humans, but they also use underhanded tactics. They ambushed me while I was meditating!"


    Meditating?


    It seemed more like she''d been sleeping when they attacked...


    "But why didn''t those Hilichurls capture or hurt you? Why just tie you up here?" Lucas rubbed his chin. Then, realizing something, he eximed, "Oh no! It''s a diversion!"


    With that, he quickly bolted back toward the convoy.


    "Wait for me!" Fischl frowned and hurried after him.


    ...


    "What... what happened?"


    Lucas was stunned by what he saw when they returned to the convoy.


    The reason was simple...


    All the weapons and equipment were still there, untouched.


    But the people guarding the convoy had vanished without a trace.


    Although the cargo wasn''t gold or silver, the high-quality weapons could still fetch a hefty price.


    This indicated that the attackers true goal had been to capture people from the start.


    Lucas couldn''t help but remember the conversation he''d had with Zhang Luo earlier. Several adult men had gone missing in the area recently. Could this really be the work of Hilichurls?


    But could simple-minded Hilichurls reallye up with a n to lure them away using a fake distress call?


    "It looks like those Hilichurls were behind this," Fischl said, pointing at the footprints on the ground. "The tracks are fresh. These Hilichurls, although their bodies have changed, still don''t wear shoes."


    "Can you track them?" Lucas asked.


    "Of course! I''m Mondstadt''s best investigator!" Fischl puffed out her chest proudly. "Lucas, would you be willing to form a contract with me?"


    "A contract?" Lucas asked, confused. "What kind of contract?"


    "Temporarily be my familiar and follow my orders," Fischl said, striking a somewhat embarrassing pose. "I can help you find the Hilichurls hideout, and you''ll help me defeat them... Not that I need help, but those filthy creatures aren''t worthy of my power."


    Her words weren''t entirely boastful.


    Though she had a Vision, Fischl''sbat abilities weren''t particrly strong. However, thanks to her ability to share vision with Oz, she had a distinct advantage as an investigator.


    Many of the key intelligence reports for both the Adventurers Guild and the Knights of Favonius came from Fischl and Oz.


    Her mission at the Mondstadt border was to investigate the rumored mutated Hilichurls, but she hadn''t expected to be ambushed and used as bait¡ªnor to lose her familiar.


    Even without Oz, Fischl''s experience as an investigator had equipped her with excellent tracking skills.


    "Very well" Lucas agreed without hesitation. "Prinzessin, I will dly serve as your ally, for now."


    "I''m looking forward to your performance," Fischl replied, her cheeks flushing slightly as she looked at Lucas''s gentle smile. "If you do well, I might even consider promoting you to a permanent position."


    As for the convoy''s equipment, Lucas considered storing it in the Serenitea Pot, but it wouldn''t go in.


    The Serenitea Pot followed its own set of "rules." For non-living items, only things that belonged to the owner could be stored inside. The convoy''s cargo clearly wasn''t Lucas''s property.


    The Serenitea Pot, being an artifact crafted by an adeptus, had rules in ce to prevent anyone from using it for malicious purposes.


    ...


    Fischl''s investigative skills were impressive. Using the traces left by the Hilichurls, they soon spotted a camp in the distance. The uniquely shaped watchtower was unmistakably a Hilichurl outpost.


    "Strange..." Fischl murmured, peering through binocrs. "I''ve investigated dozens of Hilichurl camps, but this one seems different. It''s muchrger, and the buildings aren''t as crude... Damn, when did these creatures learn to build with stone?"


    Before she could finish speaking, Lucas covered her mouth and pulled her into the bushes.


    "Someone''sing."


    Sure enough, two Hilichurls, armed with wooden clubs, were patrolling around the camp.


    But when Lucas saw them, his eyes widened in disbelief.


    From their masks and weapons to their gait, everything resembled typical Hilichurls. But the odd part was that their bodies were not like the usual emaciated Hilichurls. Instead, they had the figures of normal human women.


    The only difference was their slightly tanned skin, which gave them a healthy bronze hue. Moreover, their well-toned, athletic bodies had very defined curves¡ªslim where they should be and... rather well-endowed in other areas.


    [Picture here]


    Simply put, these two Hilichurls had surprisingly attractive figures.


    "Tsk, tsk," Fischl whispered, clicking her tongue. "Where exactly are you looking? Your eyes are practically falling out."


    "N-nothing..." Lucas stammered, embarrassed. "But... are you sure these are really Hilichurls?"


    Lucas had encountered Hilichurls in this world before.


    Compared to the two in front of him, there was no real resemnce¡ªnot even close.


    In theory, there were tribal differences among Hilichurls, but those differences were usually minor. Some had darker skin, and some were more muscr.


    But these two Hilichurls? If someone told Lucas they were humans in cosy, he might believe them.


    "To be honest, I also found it unbelievable when I first saw them," Fischl nodded. "But considering that some Hilichurl tribes have unique individuals like ''Hilichurl Berserkers,'' it''s not impossible for other special forms to exist, right?"


    That was true. In Hilichurl tribes, stronger Hilichurls would grow in size, eventually bing the more powerful "Hilichurl Berserkers." It was a form of natural selection, survival of the fittest.


    But what was the point of evolving into something like this? Just to be easier on the eyes?


    "In any case, saving the people¡ªand of course, the bird¡ªis the priority," Lucas said, his eyes lighting up with an idea. "We don''t know the situation inside the camp yet, so why don''t we disguise ourselves and sneak in?"


    "Disguise?" Fischl asked, puzzled. "How do we do that?"


    "Wait here," Lucas said, cracking his knuckles. "I''ll go remove their helmets first."


    Without waiting for a response, Lucas silently slipped out of the bushes. Taking advantage of the Hilichurls''ck of awareness, he swiftly struck the neck of one with a chop. The Hilichurl didn''t even make a sound before copsing unconscious.


    The other Hilichurl quickly noticed something was wrong. She raised her wooden club and swung it at Lucas with all her might.


    Wooden clubs were the mostmon weapons among Hilichurls, requiring little to no craftsmanship. But the club in this Hilichurl''s hand had a dozen iron spikes embedded in it, turning it into a spiked mace.


    Although Hilichurls were generally shorter than adult humans, they possessed surprising strength. Despite the female form, this Hilichurl wielded the heavy mace with ease.


    Lucas deftly stepped back a few paces, dodging the blow. The mace mmed into the ground with a loud thud, leaving arge crater.


    However, instead of getting frustrated after missing, the Hilichurl''s eyes¡ªhidden behind her mask¡ªseemed to glimmer with excitement. She muttered, "Man... strong... chief likes... give to her... reward... a lot..."


    To Lucas''s surprise, the Hilichurl spoke humannguage. Though her speech was awkward and stilted, he understood the gist of it.


    She wanted to capture him for her chief.


    Before he could react, the excited Hilichurl swung her spiked mace at him again, charging forward with reckless abandon. Her attackscked any form or technique, but her immense strength and speed made her a formidable opponent.


    Unfortunately for her, that was only against ordinary humans.


    This time, instead of dodging, Lucas raised his arm and blocked her attack head-on.


    The spikes pierced his skin, and he felt a sharp pain, but thanks to the ability [Charging First], the pain transformed into something else¡ªa sense of power, a surge of "Heroic Intent."


    -----


    Author''s Note: Hoho I wonder if game will add these hilichurls.. asking for a friend

 Chapter 46: Villain Simulator, Ch 46

    <h4>Chapter 46: Viin Simtor, Ch 46</h4>


    "Charging Fist!"


    Lucas raised his glowing fist and smashed it into the spiked mace. The sheer force shattered the mace instantly, and the energy from his punch surged like a wild beast, sending the Hilichurl flying.


    With a thud, the Hilichurl crashed into a tree and fainted, muttering something barely audible that sounded like...


    "So good..."


    Wait, was this some kind of masochist Hilichurl tribe?


    "Amazing!"


    Fischl suddenly emerged from the bushes, eximing before quickly regaining herposure. She tried to act nonchnt and said, "N-no surprise, given that you''re the familiar I''ve chosen."


    "Well, let''s borrow their outfits for now," Lucas said, hesitating slightly as he removed one of the Hilichurls'' masks.


    He had hesitated because he feared that such a well-proportioned body might be paired with a grotesque face, which would be a real shock.


    But to his surprise, the face beneath the mask looked almost entirely human, except for two long, rabbit-like ears on top of her head.


    Curious, Lucas tugged gently at one of the ears. The unconscious Hilichurl flinched slightly, indicating it was real.


    So, these weren''t fake...


    But why had Hilichurls transformed into this?


    "What are you doing, standing there?" Fischl''s voice broke his train of thought. "Didn''t you say we''d disguise ourselves as Hilichurls?"


    When Lucas turned around, he saw that Fischl had already changed into one of the Hilichurl outfits.


    However, the oversized spiked mace seemed too heavy for her to carry, and more awkwardly, the chest wraps worn by the Hilichurls were far too loose on Fischl, whose figure wasn''t as well-endowed.


    As expected... she couldn''t fill it out...


    "Hey..." Fischl suddenly squinted her eyes. "You''re not thinking something rude, are you?"


    "N-no, nothing like that!" Lucas quickly changed the subject. "But, Prinzessin, your skin tone doesn''t quite match these Hilichurls''. Couldn''t that be a problem?"


    Indeed, while the Hilichurls had a tannedplexion, Fischl''s skin was fair and pale, making the contrast rather obvious.


    "Don''t underestimate an investigator''s preparations," Fischl said, pulling out a bottle that resembled foundation from her belt. "This is camouge paint. It can temporarily change the color of my skin."


    As she spoke, she applied some of the paint to her arm, instantly turning her snow-white skin into a shade of light brown.


    It made sense that an investigator like Fischl would carry such tools for disguise.


    "My familiar, ept the firstmand from your Prinzessin," Fischl said with a slightly embarrassed expression. "Help me... apply it to my back."


    The camouge paint was only applied to exposed skin, and since Hilichurl outfits consisted of a chest wrap and skirt, Fischl''s back was mostly exposed. With no way to reach her own back, and without Oz to assist, she had no choice but to ask Lucas for help.


    Lucas didn''t overthink it. He grabbed the paint and began applying it to Fischl''s smooth, pale back.


    "G-gently!" Fischl blushed. "Though I''m powerful, my mortal body is still quite sensitive."


    Despite her strong words, the rough sensation of his fingers brushing against her skin sent shivers through her, like an electric current running down her spine.


    Not that ordinary electricity would affect someone like Fischl, who had an Electro Vision.


    "Uh..." Lucas asked suddenly. "Do I need to apply it under the chest wrap as well?"


    "D-don''t even think about it!" Fischl stammered. "It''s fine¡ªnothing will show through the wrap."


    Lucas agreed; besides, it felt inappropriate to even ask something like that.


    And so, the two of them finished their "odd" Hilichurl disguises¡ªone with a strong, muscr build, and the other much more slender.


    Fortunately, both wore the Hilichurls'' oversized masks, making their appearance less conspicuous.


    Now, they could only hope the Hilichurls weren''t clever enough to see through their "poor" disguise.


    Mimicking the Hilichurls'' unique, clumsy walking pattern, the two made their way to the entrance of the camp.


    Just as Fischl had said, the camp was well hidden but muchrger than most Hilichurl camps. The two female Hilichurls guarding the entrance didn''t seem to notice anything odd about the "unusual" pair in front of them and nodded, allowing them in.


    Inside, the camp didn''t look much different from a typical Hilichurl camp, aside from being cleaner. Not far away, animals like boars were enclosed in a pen, and if it weren''t for therge Hilichurl totem in the center, the ce might have been mistaken for a peaceful, remote vige.


    "This ce is strange..." Fischl whispered, scanning the area. "Why are there only female Hilichurls here?"


    Generally, Hilichurls didn''t have obvious gender distinctions, and some schrs even believed they didn''t have genders at all, as no one had ever observed them reproducing.


    Fischl thought that even if these Hilichurls had mutated into humanoid forms, there should still be both males and females. Yet, so far, they hadn''t seen a single male.


    As a transmigrator, Lucas knew that most Hilichurls were originally the cursed remnants of Khaenri''ah, an ancient civilization destroyed 500 years ago. These cursed people had been transformed into the Hilichurl-like creatures wandering Teyvat.


    Hilichurls didn''t truly die in the conventional sense. If killed, they would return to the ley lines and eventually "revive" through them.


    In other words, the Hilichurls wandering Teyvat today were all over 500 years old.


    So, the transformation of these Hilichurls into humanoid forms wasn''t exactly a mutation. It was more like a form of atavism.


    (AN: Atavism = reappearance of a characteristic in an organism after several generations of absence.)


    Suddenly, a loud horn echoed through the camp. One of the Hilichurls lowered the horn and shouted, "The chief,e out! The men, newly caught, bring them up!"


    At this, all the Hilichurls in the camp immediately stopped what they were doing and lined up in two rows, bowing their heads respectfully.


    Seeing this, Lucas and Fischl quickly blended in with the others.


    From thergest building in the camp emerged a tall female Hilichurl, easily over 175 cm (AN: 5''9).


    Her feminine features were even more pronounced, and even the smallest of her movements as she walked caused quite a distracting sight for Lucas.


    So, this was the chief?


    Could it be that this tribe chose its chief based on... size? The bigger, the higher the rank?


    That would fit the simple-minded nature of Hilichurls, after all.


    The chief raised her arm and shouted, "Bring the men up!"


    Lucas, ncing over, couldn''t help but notice¡ªnice armpits.


    Although Hilichurls had thick hair on their heads, their bodies were mostly hairless.


    Momentster, several men with their hands and feet bound were pushed forward by other Hilichurls. Among them were Zhang Luo and the rest of the convoy members.


    So, they really were captured by these Hilichurls!


    However, Lucas knew that these men, thoughcking Visions, were skilled fighters. They shouldn''t have been overpowered so easily by Hilichurls.


    Could it be that these Hilichurls had not only changed in appearance but also gained strength?


    But what was the purpose of capturing these men?


    Were they to be used as food? That seemed unlikely¡ªthere had never been any reports of Hilichurls eating human flesh.


    Were they going to be used as ves? Also doubtful, as there had been no signs of human envement in the camp.


    Could they be meant for some kind of sacrifice?


    The female chief walked among the captured men, much like someone inspecting watermelons at a fruit stall. She even patted a few of them before shaking her head in disappointment.


    "These men... not strong enough," she said in broken human speech. "Give you chance. All of you fight me. Win, and go free."


    The men exchanged nces. The reason they had lost earlier was due to being vastly outnumbered. Now, it was a one-on-one fight, and their opponent was just one Hilichurl. Naturally, they all agreed.


    After the men were untied, the chief pointed to a weapons rack nearby and said, "Pick what you want. Don''t disappoint me."


    Her words were dripping with provocation. The seven or eight men, except for Zhang Luo, who didn''t know how to fight, grabbed spiked maces, axes, and other weapons, then surrounded the chief.


    Luckily, the chief had darker skin while the human men were fair-skinned. Otherwise, Lucas might have been reminded of a certain visual contrast best left unexplored.


    These men had been trained in Keqing''s martial arts school and had plenty ofbat experience. They exchanged nces and then moved in unison.


    "Attack!"


    As soon as themand was given, the seven or eight skilled menunched a coordinated attack on the female chieftain.


    Their timing and angles were perfect, moving in unison with impressive synchronization. The chieftain had no room to evade.


    "Hmph!"


    Without hesitation, the chieftain raised her enormous spiked club and swung it around in a wide arc. "Taste my big spiked club!"


    The sheer force of her swing created a shockwave, sting all her attackers backward with a loud thud.


    Though the men were trained fighters, they were still ordinary humans and couldn''t withstand such monstrous strength. Before they could react, they were thrown back and knocked unconscious.


    Indeed, as the saying goes, overwhelming strength can defeat even the most skilled techniques. In the face of absolute power, no amount of skill mattered.


    "Disappointing, utterly disappointing," the chieftain muttered, shaking her head as she swung her giant club. "Take them away."


    The other Hilichurls immediately jumped into action, dragging the defeated men away. Zhang Luo, who hadn''t participated in the fight, shouted, "Chief! Please spare us! Our master will pay a hefty ransom, I¡ª" Thud!


    One of the Hilichurls, irritated by his shouting, knocked him out with a club.


    Well, that escted quickly...


    Lucas began calcting his chances of defeating these Hilichurls and escaping unharmed. While the ordinary Hilichurls didn''t seem too threatening, the chieftain was a different story¡ªher strength was on par with some of the higher-level Genshin characters.


    It seemed he needed a different approach.


    Perhaps poisoning them, knocking them all unconscious, and then escaping with the captives?


    For someone like Lucas, who preferred to avoid unnecessary conflict, this was the most straightforward n.


    He opened the shop''s "Poison" section, and a list of strange names appeared: Smiling Half-Step Death, Seven-Day Certain Death Pill, Yin-Yang Harmony Powder, I Love a Little Stick... Wait, what the heck are these?


    Lucas hesitated, wondering what kind of strange effects thest two might have if given to the Hilichurls.


    After some thought, he decided to purchase arge bag of Monghan Medicine, a knockout powder. His n was to drug the Hilichurls, knock them out, and then call in the Millelith to handle the situation.


    Although the Hilichurls hadn''t shown any intention to kill, their habit of kidnapping humans was still a serious problem.


    "Start the fire!"


    With amand from the chieftain, arge cauldron was ced in the center of the camp. This was part of the Hilichurl tribe''s unique "cuisine," simr to a hotpot.


    Simply put, the Hilichurls would take turns throwing ingredients they had gathered into the pot to be cooked together.


    As for how it tasted... given the randomness of the ingredients, it probably wasn''t anything special.


    One by one, the Hilichurls lined up, tossing their ingredients into the pot.


    There were some rtively normal ingredients like pork legs, pigeon meat, tomatoes, corn, and potatoes. Then there were the odd ones like apples, raspberries, and crystallized cores. One even threw a rock into the pot.


    When it was Lucas''s turn, he hesitated for a moment, then discreetly tossed in a packet of powder, hidden among some lettuce leaves.


    However, the sharp-eyed chieftain noticed and asked in her deep, rumbling voice, "What did you throw... in there?"


    "Seasoning! Human seasoning. Tastes good!" Lucas mimicked the Hilichurls'' broken speech.


    To his surprise, the chieftain didn''t seem suspicious. In fact, she nodded approvingly and said, "You have... good ideas. I like. Too bad... you are female."


    Lucas broke into a cold sweat.


    Uh... you don''t have any men in this camp anyway...


    Soon, the peculiar Hilichurl hotpot was ready. Even without the knockout powder, the sight of the purple-foaming stew was enough to make Lucas lose his appetite.


    As the Hilichurls gathered to eat, they took off their masks. This allowed Lucas to finally see their faces.


    Just like the two Hilichurls he had knocked out earlier, these Hilichurls all had human-like female faces. However, their features weren''t as sharp as those of Mondstadt residents or as delicate as those from Liyue. Instead, their appearance had an exotic touch, and their tanned skin didn''t seem to have evolved from the original dark Hilichurl skin but looked more like their naturalplexion.


    Their grasp of the humannguage didn''t seem to be something they had learned recently. It felt like they already knew it but had be rusty from not using it for so long.


    The Hilichurls devoured the overcooked meat and washed it down with rough, homemade liquor, seeming entirely unbothered by their mutated bodies. In fact, they appeared quite content.


    It was said that Hilichurls wore masks because they feared seeing their distorted, ugly reflections in water.


    But now, they seemed to have no such concerns.


    If not for the fact that they kidnapped humans, Lucas would have been reluctant to disturb the peaceful life they had here, far away from civilization.


    However, perhaps because of their strong physiques, the effects of the knockout powder hadn''t kicked in yet.


    -----


    Author''s Note: Conflict with fatuiing soon


    Powahhstonessssss~!

 Chapter 47: Villain Simulator, Ch 47

    <h4>Chapter 47: Viin Simtor, Ch 47</h4>


    After eating and drinking her fill, the female chieftain suddenly stood up, pped her hands, and shouted, "Everyone! Let''s dance!"


    Dance?


    Right after eating? Aren''t they worried about indigestion?


    All the Hilichurls immediately stood up and began dancing along with the chieftain in a series of strange, rhythmic movements.


    It seemed that even after transforming into humanoid forms, they retained many of their Hilichurl habits.


    "W-what should we do?" Fischl asked nervously. "I-I don''t know how to dance!"


    "It''s fine. Just jump around randomly," Lucas said, pulling her to her feet. "If we don''t join in, they''ll definitely suspect something. Hang in there, the medicine should kick in soon."


    "Ugh, this is so embarrassing!" Fischl groaned as she reluctantly followed the strange dance moves of the Hilichurls. "If anyone ever dares to record this in the chronicles of the Prinzessin der Verurteilung, I swear I''ll personally smite them!"


    Meanwhile, the chieftain continued dancing while chanting strange lyrics in rhythm:


    "I am a Hilichurl! We need to reproduce! Reproduction needs men! Weak men won''t do! Our offspring won''t be strong! Where are the strong men? Where, where, where?"


    For some reason, as the chieftain sang, Lucas couldn''t help but think of the tune of a folk song about Yunnan Province...


    But from the lyrics, it became clear¡ªthe reason they were capturing men was for reproduction.


    Survival and reproduction are basic instincts for nearly all living creatures, and monsters are no exception.


    After transforming into humanoid forms, these Hilichurls naturally developed a reproductive instinct. However, since there were no males in their tribe, they resorted to kidnapping human men.


    But even in choosing mates, the Hilichurls maintained their monstrous instincts of natural selection. They sought strong mates, believing that only strong fathers could pass on strong genes, which exined why they had no interest in weaker men.


    Of course, for these powerful Hilichurls, ordinary humans likely wouldn''t meet their standards.


    "I-I can''t take this anymore..." Fischl panted, struggling to keep up with the bizarre dance. "I-I can''t keep dancing!"


    Perhaps because of her petite figure, or maybe due to the reduced friction from her sweat, there was a sudden snap, and the chest wrap that had been barely holding on slipped from her body and fell to the ground.


    Normally, such a thing wouldn''t matter much to the free-spirited Hilichurls¡ªmany of them had already discarded their clothes in the heat of the dance. But because Fischl had only applied camouge paint to the skin outside her chest wrap, the stark contrast between her pale and painted skin immediately caught everyone''s attention.


    Luckily, there were no males in the tribe, or else Fischl might have faced a different kind of embarrassment.


    "You!"


    The chieftain pointed at Fischl and shouted angrily, "You''re not one of us!"


    "W-wait!" Fischl hastily covered herself and stammered, "I-I just have lighter skin!"


    "It''s not about your skin color," the chieftain said, shaking her head and pointing at Fischl''s chest. "In our tribe, no one is... that small."


    Lucas could almost hear the sound of something shattering. It was probably Fischl''s pride.


    Thankfully, she was still wearing a mask, so no one could see her likely mortified expression.


    "You''re a human! A liar! A bad person!" the chieftain growled, clearly hating deception. "Take her away and punish her!"


    Things were falling apart just when the knockout powder was about to take effect.


    As the Hilichurls approached to grab Fischl, Lucas could no longer stand by. He stepped in front of her, removed his mask, and shouted, "Stop!"


    "Don''t move!"


    The moment the chieftain saw Lucas, her eyes lit up with interest. She clenched her fists excitedly and said, "A man, not like the others."


    "That''s right, I am a man," Lucas said, trying to buy time. "You said earlier that if we defeat you, we can leave, correct?"


    "Correct!" The chieftain nodded. "Hilichurls don''t lie. Unlike humans, who are deceitful."


    "Hey!" Fischl whispered urgently from behind him. "Are you really going to fight this monster?"


    Fischl had initially thought little of the Hilichurls, but after witnessing the strength of the chieftain¡ªwho was far stronger than a Hilichurl Berserker¡ªshe was concerned. The group of men who had fought her together couldn''t win, so what chance did Lucas have alone?


    "Don''t worry," Lucas said, turning slightly to give her a reassuring smile. "I''ll protect you."


    "Protect me...?" Fischl''s face turned red as she bit her lip. "W-who asked you to protect me? I am the Prinzessin der Verurteilung, ruler of the Immernachtreich..."


    "Yes, yes," Lucas chuckled softly. "But protecting you is the duty of a familiar, isn''t it?"


    "Familiar''s duty...?" Watching Lucas walk toward the chieftain, Fischl steadied her breath, muttering to herself, "Saying such unfair things... I guess I have no choice but to promote you."


    "Choose your weapon," the chieftain said confidently, gesturing to the weapon rack like she had done before.


    There was something different about this man. He had an unusual aura, unlike any of the other captured men. But the chieftain was confident in her strength and had no intention of holding back.


    She wanted to meet a man strong enough to defeat her, but she would never go easy on anyone.


    "No need, I have my own."


    Lucas reached into the void and pulled out the sword Keqing had gifted him, the Lion''s Roar. As he drew the de, it let out a clear, ringing sound.


    "Don''t disappoint me!"


    The chieftain charged forward with her spiked club, moving with the force of a tank. Though she was tall and well-built, her speed and power were overwhelming.


    "Vine Snare!"


    Lucas extended his hand toward the ground, and suddenly, a thick vine shot up from the earth, tripping the chieftain.


    This was a move Lucas had developed by mastering his ability to control nts¡ªusing vines to trip up enemies.


    Of course, this technique had its limitations. It only worked on nt-filled terrain, and it wasn''t effective against agile opponents.


    However, the straightforward chieftain had no idea how to counter such a tactic. With a loud crash, she tripped over the vine and fell t on her face.


    Fortunately for her, she was naturally well-padded(th), so the fall didn''t cause much harm.


    Seeing his opportunity, Lucas didn''t hesitate. He gripped the Lion''s Roar and shed at the chieftain.


    The swordsmanship he used was the Favonius Swordmanship: Wolf''s Fang, a skill he had learned in the simtor. Though he had only mastered its form and not its true essence, even the form alone was enough to rank him among the top swordsmen.


    The chieftain, who relied solely on brute strength and reckless charges, had never encountered such refined and elusive swordy. She found herself unable tond a single blow, being forced back step by step by Lucas''s precise strikes.


    Yet, instead of feeling frustrated, a glimmer of excitement appeared in her eyes.


    Finally, after so long, she had found a male who could fight her. How could she not be thrilled?


    Her n for reproduction would begin today!


    For some reason, when Lucas looked into the fiery eyes of the female chieftain, he felt less like her opponent and more like a piece of meat on a chopping block.


    To be fair, the chieftain''s exotic features held a certain allure, but the savage, crazed grin on her face made her seem ferociously dangerous.


    "My blood... is burning!!"


    Like a character straight out of JoJo, the chieftain reached her peak of excitement, her body emanating a crimson aura akin to battle energy. The veins on her skin bulged, and her strength and speed skyrocketed.


    Each time Lucas blocked the spiked club, the impact sent painful shocks through his arms.


    "Come on! Show me! Just how strong you really are!" The chieftain, now in a frenzied state, attacked Lucas with a relentless storm of strikes, yelling wildly, "Don''t stop! I need more!"


    Not only was the chieftain getting hyped, but the surrounding Hilichurls were also growing increasingly excited.


    In truth, many of them had been waiting for someone to defeat their leader. If the chieftain fell, they might get a piece of the rewards themselves. The chieftain had long enforced a rule that only strong men could be used for reproduction, not weaklings.


    Lucas found himself on the defensive, forced back by the chieftain''s fierce barrage of attacks.


    Nearby, Fischl, growing concerned, shouted, "If you can''t win, just give up! After all¡ª"


    After all, once the drug kicked in, the Hilichurls would all pass out.


    Of course, even Fischl knew better than to shout out this n.


    Lucas had no desire to prolong the fight, but the relentless attacks from the raging chieftain left him no chance to catch his breath.


    The chieftain swung her spiked club high, and when she mmed it down, though Lucas blocked the attack with his sword, the immense force drove his feet deep into the ground.


    "You''re not strong enough," the chieftain said, shaking her head. "It''s a shame. Surrender."


    "Watch closely, I''ve still got..." Lucas suddenly raised his left hand, revealing the Giant''s Gauntlet. All the damage he had blocked earlier had been absorbed into the gauntlet''s power through Charging Fist. "...another hand!"


    His fist rapidly swelled in size like an inted balloon. Before the chieftain could react, Lucas unleashed all the stored-up energy in a devastating blow.


    Thud!


    The thick spiked club shattered on impact, and the chieftain herself wasunched backward, crashing to the ground.


    The power of Charging Fist was simple¡ªthe more damage the user took, the more devastating the counterattack. Lucas had just returned all the umted damage to the chieftain in a single hit.


    "Urgh!"


    The chieftain coughed up blood, using the broken club as a crutch to help herself up. But instead of anger, she smiled. "I lost. You''re big. I like that."


    Of course, she was talking about his fist.


    But ording to the straightforward logic of the Hilichurls, a big fist meant everything else was big too.


    "I apologize," Lucas said, massaging his sore hand. "I trust you''ll keep your word and let us go. Also, I''m taking the others with me."


    "Of course," the chieftain replied, nodding. "Hilichurls don''t lie. With you here, the others don''t matter."


    She then stepped forward and grabbed Lucas''s wrist,ughing heartily. "The ceremony isplete. You may leave."


    "Ceremony?" Lucas asked, puzzled. "What ceremony?"


    "The ceremony... for reproduction. You''re strong, so your offspring will be strong too!" The chieftain said, pulling Lucas toward her tent. "Come! Into the hut with me!"


    "Wait! This wasn''t part of the deal!" Lucas eximed, halfughing, half-panicking. "Is it really necessary to go this far for reproduction?"


    Around them, the other Hilichurls began chanting in unison: "Let us have a child! Let us have a child! Let us have a child!"


    "Patience!" the chieftain dered righteously. "Everyone will get a child! One by one!"


    One by one?!


    In the simtor, this might have been doable.


    But in real life? Not a chance.


    Lucas nced desperately at Fischl, hoping for help, but her expression was filled with amusement. Her eyes practically said it all:


    "Why not just sacrifice yourself for the greater good?"


    Just as Lucas was torn between self-sacrifice and survival, the chieftain suddenly staggered and copsed, falling asleep on the ground.


    The effects of the knockout powder had finally kicked in. The other Hilichurls also began swaying, eventually dropping to the ground, one after another.


    "They''re down! They''re down!"


    With Lucas''s call, the once-rowdy Hilichurl camp instantly fell silent.


    It was undeniable that these Hilichurls had incredible endurance. If an ordinary human had consumed that amount of Monghan Medicine, they would have been unconscious in minutes, but these Hilichurls had managed to hold out much longer.


    "Finally, it''s over," Fischl said, letting out a sigh of relief. "As the Prinzessin der Verurteilung, I sentence you all to¡ªwait, what exactly is the crime?"


    "Uh... attempted something," Lucas replied casually. "Anyway, let''s free the captives and find your bird."


    "Oh right, my bird..." Fischl suddenly corrected herself, looking flustered. "It''s not a bird! It''s my familiar!"


    At that moment, the sound of footsteps approached from the camp''s entrance. Lucas turned to see a group of about ten people, all dressed as adventurers, entering the camp.


    The man at the front, who appeared to be their leader, was a brown-haired man in his thirties. His face showed a brief sh of surprise upon seeing the scene, but he quicklyposed himself. Looking at Lucas, he said, "We''re from the Adventurers'' Guild, here to deal with the mutated Hilichurls. Leave these Hilichurls to us."


    "I..."


    Just as Lucas was about to respond, the system notification appeared suddenly:


    [Liar''s Bane activated. Target''s statement detected as false.]


    "You guys arrived prettyte!" Fischl remarked, unaware of the lie, and asked, "Which guild are you with, anyway? I don''t seem to recall seeing you before."


    Though Fischl was young, she had worked with the Adventurers'' Guild for quite some time. Despite her entric behavior, she was well-acquainted with many adventurers, even though she only had a few friends.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Guess who they are?

 Chapter 48: Villain Simulator, Ch 48

    <h4>Chapter 48: Viin Simtor, Ch 48</h4>


    As an investigator, Fischl was familiar with almost every adventuring team, from the well-established "Windborne Adventurer''s Guild" and "Dandelion Adventurer''s Guild" to the one-man "Bet Adventuring Team."


    Yet, she had no recollection of the adventurer group before her.


    Her suspicion confirmed that this so-called "adventuring team" was indeed suspicious.


    The man, however, didn''t seem fazed. He calmly replied, "We are the Pale Adventuring Team. We travel across many nations and aren''t based in any one city. It''s normal that you haven''t heard of us. My name is¡ª"


    "Your name is Afriel. You''re a retired captain from Snezhnaya, fond of strong spirits and archery. You enjoy dark rye bread and have two sons and a daughter," Lucas interrupted. "If I''m not mistaken, your team also includes Nokkeg, a thief from Fontaine, and Tanaka Jiro, a samurai from Inazuma. Am I right?"


    The group''s faces filled with shock, and the man named Afriel frowned. "How... how do you know that?"


    "These backstories aremon false identities used by Fatui operatives during covert missions," Lucas said casually. "Which division are you from, and who''s your superior?"


    Lucas knew this because, in the simtor, he had once served as the Fatui Harbinger, The Doctor. He had learned much about the Fatui''s tactics and methods.


    To his surprise, the real Fatui operated with the same "temte" as in the simtor.


    While these Hilichurls had kidnapped humans, they meant no harm. However, if the Fatui got hold of them, who knew what experiments or horrors would ensue?


    No one knew the Fatui''s methods better than The Doctor himself.


    The Fatui members exchanged uneasy nces. They didn''t recognize the man in front of them, but the internal hierarchy of the Fatui was incredibly convoluted. Who knew if he was some hidden higher-up?


    There was even a story about a clueless Fatui recruit who mocked the Harbinger Scaramouche for being "short" and was punished with three years oftrine duty.


    Afriel narrowed his eyes and asked, "Who are you?"


    Lucas, not wanting to escte things further, smirked coldly. "You don''t seem like rookies. How can you not recognize a Harbinger? When you return to Snezhnaya, you''d better be ready to runps around Red Square while shouting, ''I''m sorry, Lord Tartaglia, I''ll keep saying it until you can hear me!''"


    Channeling themanding aura he had mastered as a Harbinger in the simtor, Lucas radiated an intimidating presence.


    [Liar''s Bane activated: Intelligence check required.]


    [Check sessful: The target is deceived.]


    An intelligence check? This felt more like a tabletop RPG! But, luckily for Lucas, these Fatui operatives had never seen Tartaglia in person. They only knew he was young, handsome, temperamental, and extraordinarily powerful¡ªqualities that seemed to match the man before them.


    Coupled with the dark, calcting aura Lucas was exuding, they were convinced he wasn''t bluffing.


    "Collecting these Hilichurls was an order from The Doctor," Afriel quickly bowed. "We didn''t mean to offend you, Lord Tartaglia. Once the mission isplete, we''ll be sure to put in a good word for you with The Doctor."


    So, these were The Doctor''s underlings?


    This felt like a ssic case of mistaken identity!


    Though Lucas didn''t know much about The Doctor in this world, if he was even remotely simr to the one in the simtor, it was clear these transformed Hilichurls were likely the result of his experiments.


    "Trying to use The Doctor''s name against me?" Lucas scoffed, fully embracing the role. "These Hilichurls are my prey. If you think you can take them from me... you''re wee to try."


    The tension in the air grew thick with a subtle hint of danger. The Fatui operatives stood frozen in silence.


    "I... I understand," Afriel finally sighed. "Lord Tartaglia, forgive us. We''ll leave now."


    Afriel knew that if he reported back to The Doctor, the worst he''d face was some punishment. But if he angered Tartaglia, he might lose his life.


    As the group began to depart, Lucas let out a sigh of relief. However, at that moment, footsteps came from a nearby tent, and Zhang Luo emerged, holding a short knife. It appeared he had cut himself free.


    "Brother Lucas!" Zhang Luo called out with a smile. "I knew you''de to rescue me! When we get back, I''ll make sure to sing your praises to Lady Keqing!"


    Lucas facepalmed.


    Zhang, my man... thank you, but you just ruined everything!


    The departing Fatui operatives froze, their expressions growing dark.


    "Damn it!" Afriel snarled through clenched teeth. "You dare deceive the Fatui? You must be courting death!"


    "W-what''s going on?" Zhang Luo asked, still oblivious to the situation. Before he could finish speaking, a sharp crossbow bolt pierced his abdomen.


    Afriel, holding a small crossbow, sneered coldly. "These people know too much. Kill them all. Leave no survivors!"


    "Brother Zhang!"


    Lucas''s pupils dted with shock. Though he hadn''t known Zhang Luo for long, the man had always been kind and helpful. Even though Zhang had identally exposed their cover, Lucas felt no anger toward him.


    Now, seeing Zhang cut down in cold blood, even the normally calm Lucas felt a surge of fury. His dark irises began to glow faintly with a red hue.


    "Kill the liar first!" Afriel barked, gesturing toward Fischl with a cruel smile. "As for the girl, she''s pretty enough. We can have some fun with her before we''re done."


    The other Fatui members grinned lecherously at his suggestion.


    Boom!


    A deafening bang echoed in the air, startling Afriel. A strange coldness swept over him, and he looked down to see a bloodied chunk of flesh¡ªa severed ear¡ªon the ground by his feet.


    After a brief moment of shock, Afriel finally registered the excruciating pain and let out a scream.


    "I may not be Tartaglia..." Lucas''s eyes were cold. "But Tartaglia might have spared you. I won''t."


    "It''s... it''s a firearm!" Afriel gritted his teeth through the pain,manding, "Find cover! Firearm troops, prepare to counterattack!"


    The Fatui soldiers, well-trained as they were, reacted quickly. But before they could find shelter, two sharp pops rang out. Two Fatui soldiers were shot directly between the eyes, falling to the ground instantly.


    This time, Lucas wasn''t using rubber bullets.


    This was his first time killing someone in the real world, but strangely, he felt no turmoil. It was as though he had just performed a mundane task. Perhaps it was because, in the simtor, he had already taken countless lives.


    "Redeem skill¡ªGun Kata."


    [Skill Redeemed]


    [Gun Kata Beta]


    [Effect: Abat technique thatbines close-quartersbat with firearms. Must be equipped with at least one firearm to use.]


    "Fire!"


    At Afriel''s order, two riflemen raised their firearms and shot at Lucas.


    Guns weren''t umon in Teyvat. Although powerful, they were cumbersome to reload and maintain. As a result, only Snezhnaya deployed them on arge scale.


    The riflemen''s shots weren''t bullets but pellets. One grazed Lucas''s cheek, while the other hit him square in the forehead.


    "Got him!" Afriel grinned wickedly. "Not so tough after all, huh?"


    "Tough after all, huh?" Lucas''s voice echoed.


    The pellet hadn''t pierced Lucas''s skull but had dropped harmlessly to the ground, as if hitting steel. Only a shallow mark was left on his forehead.


    [Effect of ''Diamond Body'' activated, 90% of damage blocked (remaining uses for the day: 0).]


    True, Lucas didn''t have the monstrous body of The Doctor from the simtor, but his Diamond Body skill had helped absorb much of the damage.


    The riflemen were low-tier, unable to wield elemental powers, but their ammunition was still potent enough to pierce boar hide. Yet to this man, it was nothing more than a scratch.


    "He... he''s a monster!"


    One of the riflemen trembled violently, dropping his weapon and trying to flee. He didn''t get far before a shot to the back of his head ended his escape.


    "Three bullets left. Seven targets remaining," Lucas said as he charged forward, wielding both a gun and a sword.


    "Damn it!"


    Seeing Lucas charging, Afriel discarded his crossbow and drew a short sword. He swung at Lucas, but his strength were not even close to the Hilichurl chieftain that Lucas had already bested earlier. With one swing, Lucas''s sword shattered Afriel''s de.


    At that moment, a rifleman behind Lucas finished reloading and fired at him again. Lucas, as if he had eyes on the back of his head, grabbed Afriel by the cor and used him as a shield. The shot hit Afriel in the chest, leaving a bloody hole.


    "These three bullets..." Lucas pressed his M1911 to Afriel''s lower back and fired three shots. Three more holes appeared in Afriel''s body. "...are for Zhang Luo."


    Lucas casually discarded Afriel''s corpse like a broken toy.


    He brought the smoking gun to his nose, inhaling the scent of gunpowder deeply. His body trembled ever so slightly.


    Rather than feeling anxious or ufortable from taking his first life, Lucas felt a long-lost thrill.


    After reloading the magazine with expert precision, Lucas fired two shots into the air before turning to the remaining six Fatui soldiers. He smiled.


    "There are five bullets left in the magazine. One of you might survive."


    The six soldiers, already terrified by Lucas''s monstrous prowess, dropped their weapons and fled, hoping to outrun the others. They weren''t fighting Lucas now¡ªthey were racing against each other to live.


    Formerrades were now their greatest threat.


    Boom! A loud crash followed by a scream: one of the soldiers tripped over a vine and desperately grabbed the leg of the person in front of him.


    "Help... help me..."


    "Get off me!"


    His plea was answered with a vicious kick.


    Dazed, the soldier looked up, only to see the barrel of Lucas''s gun pointed at him.


    "One down."


    pping his hands, Lucas called out to the fleeing soldiers with a famous movie quote, "Run, Forrest, run!"


    The sound of gunfire cracked through the air like a whip. The soldiers ran faster, feeling as if the Grim Reaper himself was chasing them.


    In Lucas''s mind, the fleeing soldiers began to morph, turning into the Mondstadt citizens who had once thrown garbage at him, the soldiers of Snezhnaya who had tried to stop him, even the Fatui Harbinger Capitano and the Tsaritsa herself.


    "Second down."


    A bullet pierced through a soldier''s throat, sending a fountain of blood spraying several meters into the air.


    "Third down."


    The third soldier was shot in the lung. He wouldn''t die instantly, but the blood and air leaking from his chest would soon suffocate him.


    Fourth and fifth...


    Thanks to his Doctor talent, Lucas''s knowledge of the human body allowed him to target precisely where his bullets would be most lethal.


    Five shots, five corpses. The final surviving soldier, now several hundred meters away, screamed with joy.


    "I''m alive! I survived!"


    But at that moment, the ground trembled. A massive shadow loomed over him.


    The surviving soldier slowly turned, only to find himself facing a colossal creature with ck armor ting and blue stripes across its body.


    Its sharp horns and wed limbs gleamed under the sunlight.


    The beast opened its maw wide, and within it, arge fireball began to form.


    "No... no!"


    Before he could finish his plea, the fireball engulfed him, reducing him to a charred corpse.


    "Return, Greymon."


    Far in the distance, Lucas held a PokeBall between his fingers, and the massive creature dissolved into light, returning to the PokeBall in his hand.


    This was one of the rewards he had obtained from the loot box: Greymon.


    "I only said I wouldn''t shoot," Lucas said softly.


    Of course, no one was left to hear him.


    As the battle ended, Lucas finally realized he had just killed ten people. More precisely, it wasn''t a fight¡ªit was a massacre.


    And yet, his heart remained unsettlingly calm.


    -----


    Author''s Note: He''s changing....

 Chapter 49: Villain Simulator, Ch 49

    <h4>Chapter 49: Viin Simtor, Ch 49</h4>


    He knew perfectly well that this was reality, not the simtor. Yet, the coldness and killing instinct honed in the simtor wouldn''t just disappear because he was back in the real world.


    If forced to choose between killing and being killed, Lucas would always choose the former without hesitation.


    [Well done.]


    The system''s praise sounded more like a mockery.


    "No big deal."


    This time, Lucas didn''t argue with the system, almost as if he was mocking himself.


    However, upon returning to the camp, he found something unbelievable.


    Zhang Luo, who had taken an arrow to the abdomen earlier, was now waving at Lucas as if nothing had happened.


    "Brother Zhang, you... you''re okay?" Lucas asked, bewildered.


    "Ha, when you''re out in the world, you have to be prepared," Zhang Luo replied, lifting his shirt to reveal an iron pot hidden beneath. The arrow had only pierced through the pot''s bottom and hadn''t harmed him. "I secretly hid it when I slipped away."


    Lucas had to admit, while Zhang Luo''sbat skills were average, his shrewd awareness of how to survive in an often hostile environment were impressive.


    "It''s my fault..." Lucas sighed. "If I hadn''t fallen for the trap, you wouldn''t have been captured."


    "No worries. And didn''t you save that little girl, anyway?" Zhang Luo seemed unfazed and chuckled. "Besides, these Hilichurls didn''t harm us. It was just a close call."


    "This was more than just a close call," Fischl, who had been silent until now, spoke with aplex expression. "I didn''t expect this matter to involve the Fatui. You didn''t leave any survivors, did you?"


    "No," Lucas replied calmly.


    "Good," Fischl sighed in relief. "If the Fatui found out what you did, it would''ve caused serious trouble."


    Surprisingly, Fischl didn''t seem to have any moral qualms about his recent killings. If anything, she appeared to approve.


    "What is it?" Fischl seemed to notice Lucas''s confusion and frowned. "Don''t tell me you thought I, the Prinzessin, would be scared of a few corpses?"


    Lucas didn''t answer but nodded slightly.


    "Don''t think the job of an investigator is just traveling around, observing the movement of monsters," Fischl''s eyes showed a hint ofplexity. "Investigating missing adventurers is also part of the job. I''ve seen my share of bodies, whether they were smashed by Hilichurl berserkers or dissolved by Slime acid."


    At that moment, Lucas realized he had oversimplified Teyvat.


    This wasn''t some sanitized 12+ game world, and the monsters were far from cute or harmless.


    Every year, new adventurers eagerly filled out their registration forms, but most of them did notst more than three years.


    They either retired due to severe injuries or quit because of the mental toll... Of course, many of them never returned from their adventures at all.


    "Wait, they were really from the Fatui?" Zhang Luo''s face paled with rm. "We''d better leave before we get into more trouble."


    Lucas searched Afriel''s body and found a Fatui insignia hidden close to his skin. Frowning, he said, "He was a Fatui sergeant... Their mission records will be logged, and these insignias usually have tracking functions. It won''t be long before someonees looking for them."


    "So... what do we do now?" Even the experienced Zhang Luo was momentarily at a loss. "First, we need to get rid of these bodies."


    "Dispose of the bodies..." Lucas''s eyes lit up. "Why didn''t I think of that earlier?"


    He summoned the Serenitea Pot. "We''ll toss the bodies in here. That way, no one will ever find them."


    "Throw the bodies... into a teapot?" Fischl looked puzzled.


    "Wait, is this the Serenitea Pot?!" Zhang Luo''s eyes gleamed with excitement. "This is an incredibly rare treasure... Was this something the youngdy gave you?"


    "Uh... yeah, sort of," Lucas nodded, ying it off casually.


    He couldn''t exactly tell them it was something he had exchanged from the system''s store.


    Zhang Luo, ever the shrewd observer, began to suspect that Lady Keqing saw Lucas as more than an ordinary servant. She had assigned him missions, given him precious items, and the sword in his hand must have been from her as well.


    This whole escort mission seemed like an opportunity to polish up a future husband.


    With that thought in mind, Zhang Luo''s respect for Lucas deepened.


    In no time, the three of them tossed the ten bodies into the Serenitea Pot. Afterward, Lucas noticed that Fischl was staring at him with an odd expression.


    "Is there something wrong?" Lucas asked, perplexed.


    "I''ve had a strange feeling ever since earlier..." Fischl narrowed her eyes suspiciously. "Why are you so familiar with the Fatui? You even managed to fool actual members of the Fatui. Who... are you really?"


    Despite her entric, ch¨±niby¨­ persona, Fischl was Mondstadt''s top investigator. Her sharp observational skills were unparalleled.


    She once organized a fan-fiction contest called "Fischl, Princess of Judgment: Tales of the Abyssal Night" using her own money. She rejected every single submission that didn''t strictly adhere to the original lore. Any slight deviation in character or background settings was immediately spotted and disqualified.


    The winner, a work by "Little Amy," was criticized for being too focused on rigidly sticking to the lore, making it boring. While technically urate, it was lifeless.


    The lesson? No matter how detailed the lore is, what truly makes a story engaging is its ability to entertain. Overemphasizing uracy at the expense of storytelling turns even the most detailed work into dull reading.


    Faced with Fischl''s question, Lucas suddenly realized that his behavior had indeed been suspicious.


    Though the events in the simtor were virtual, he had grown so used to living as The Doctor that it had be second nature.


    When he deceived the Fatui soldiers earlier, it wasn''t just acting¡ªit felt like he was drawing from his real experience.


    As Lucas was considering how to craft a believable lie, Fischl suddenly smirked. "Even if you don''t admit it, I''ve already figured it out. You''re really a Fatui Harbinger, aren''t you?"


    Lucas froze.


    How could she have known about his identity from the simtor?


    "You were originally the Undead King of a necromantic kingdom. Your queen was the Empress of mes. But one day, you were betrayed by your subjects, and during the rebellion, your queen sacrificed herself to protect you..."


    Fischl pulled out a notebook and began writing feverishly. "Your grief turned into a burning rage, and you destroyed your entire kingdom. After losing your beloved queen, you wandered through countless realms like a walking corpse, eventually arriving in Teyvat¡ªjust like me."


    "Wait, wait..." Lucas interrupted, realizing where this was going. "You''re making all of this up, aren''t you?"


    "Don''t interrupt me!"


    Clearly inspired, Fischl continued her fantastical tale. "After five hundred years of wandering, you finally found someone in Snezhnaya who looked exactly like your lost queen. She was a Fatui Harbinger. To be close to her, you joined the Fatui and rose to be a Harbinger yourself."


    Lucas knew that this was just Fischl''s ch¨±niby¨­ imagination at work, but he couldn''t help feeling a bit startled. Her fictional story seemed to align oddly with the simtor''s events.


    "But eventually, you realized she wasn''t your true love. Heartbroken, you left the Fatui, assumed a new identity, and settled in Liyue Harbor," Fischl snapped her notebook shut, pointing dramatically at Lucas. "But fate has decreed that you and I would meet! The Undead King from the Necromantic Realm is destined to be my vassal!"


    For a moment, Lucas was speechless. Just then, a loud screech echoed from the sky, and a ck raven swooped down, circling a few times beforending on Fischl''s shoulder.


    "Oz?" Fischl eximed in surprise. "Weren''t you captured?"


    "Miss, you''re safe, thank goodness," the raven spoke in a surprisingly gentlemanly voice. "Those Hilichurls couldn''t possibly catch me. After you were knocked unconscious and strung up, I couldn''t use my power, so I went to find help. When I returned, you were gone, so I figured you''d escaped to rescue me. I followed your trail and found you here. Thank the heavens you''re alright."


    "Those lowly Hilichurls could never pose a threat to me!" Fischl replied, clearly trying to save face. "Of course, my other vassal helped a little. Oz, meet the Undead King from the Necromantic Realm. He''s already sworn allegiance to me!"


    To avoid arousing Fischl''s suspicion further, Lucas reluctantly said, "Yes, I... am the Undead King."


    Oz gave Lucas a sympathetic look. "A pleasure to meet you, Undead King. I am Oz, Miss Fischl''s loyal retainer."


    Ugh, this is mortifying.


    If a five-year-old said they were Ultraman, people might think it was cute.


    But a twenty-year-old saying something like this? People would think they are delusional.


    Oz fluttered onto Lucas''s shoulder, whispering, "I''m terribly sorry. By now, you''ve probably realized that our Miss... isn''t quite like other people."


    "It''s fine," Lucas smiled. "Actually, I think she''s quite charming."


    "Thank you for indulging her. As for this ''Undead King'' business, please don''t take it to heart."


    Oz paused for a moment before continuing. "A young astrologer told Miss Fischl not long ago that she would meet an Undead King from another world. I assume it was just meant to be a joke, but Miss Fischl took it seriously and even wrote an borate backstory."


    A young astrologer? Lucas could only think of Mona.


    But if Mona had said it, there might be something to it¡ªher astrology was known to be quite urate, and she never softened her predictions.


    The "Undead King"... that was just an identity from the simtor. It had to be a coincidence.


    "Oh, right," Fischl said, pointing to the unconscious Hilichurls. "What are you going to do with them? If we just leave, the Fatui wille back and capture them."


    From the information he had gathered, Lucas had already deduced that these Hilichurls'' transformation was linked to the Fatui, likely the result of one of The Doctor''s experiments.


    "I don''t have much choice," Lucas sighed. "Looks like I''ll have to take responsibility for this."


    ---


    Half an hourter.


    "Yawn..."


    The Hilichurl chieftain stretched and opened her eyes, only to find herself in unfamiliar surroundings.


    The environment was pleasant, with several wooden huts standing around her. Though simple, they were sturdy.


    This was, of course, the world inside the Serenitea Pot, and the huts had been constructed by Raiden Mai.


    Lucas had given her the task of building houses just to keep her upied, but to his surprise, she had built an entire vige.


    As the chieftain woke, the other Hilichurls began to stir as well, all of them astonished by their new surroundings.


    "You''re all finally awake," Lucas said as he stepped forward. "Everyone, look at me. I''ve got an announcement. I''m... ahem, your new chieftain."


    Hilichurls had a simple social structure, and in most tribes, the strongest individual became the leader.


    Lucas didn''t particrly care about being their chieftain, just as humans wouldn''t aspire to be a king of monkeys.


    Instead of exining theplicated situation, it was easier to have them submit and follow orders.


    The Hilichurls were confused and turned to their original chieftain.


    Surprisingly, she removed her mask, the symbol of leadership, and handed it to Lucas. Smiling, she said, "You are strong, stronger than me. You be chieftain!"


    With their former leader''s approval, the other Hilichurls didn''t hesitate and all began chanting "chieftain."


    "Since I''m now your chieftain, you''ll all have to follow my orders," Lucas nodded. "From today, you''ll live here. There are no humans here, so you can roam freely."


    Hearing this, the Hilichurls were overjoyed.


    After all, while they were stronger than humans, their numbers were small, which forced them to hide their camps in remote, hidden locations to avoid human detection.


    Living without the threat of humans meant they could live freely.


    "So, when do we... start reproducing?" The Hilichurl chieftain grabbed Lucas''s arm again. "I''ve been waiting!"


    "Not yet!" Lucas had anticipated this and already had a n in mind. "You''re not strong enough yet. You don''t have the right to bear my offspring."


    "You make a good point," the chieftain nodded seriously. "So what do we need to do to earn the right?"


    "Simple," Lucas pointed to Raiden Mai, who was busy with carpentry nearby. "Just defeat her."


    The chieftain hadn''t expected that earning the right to reproduce would be so "simple." Without a second thought, she grabbed a wooden club and charged at Raiden Mai, shouting enthusiastically, "Long live reproduction!"


    However, despite the chieftain''s aggressive approach, Raiden Mai remained perfectly calm. Like a machine, she muttered to herself, "Hostile target detected. Estimated threat level: low. Adjustingbat mode to: suppression. Additional directive: do not cause fatal harm."


    In an instant, Raiden Mai extended a sharp de from her arm, slicing the chieftain''s wooden club in half. She then delivered a seemingly effortless palm strike to the chieftain''s chest, sending her flying several meters through the air.


    Raiden Mai, after all, was created by Raiden Ei as a backup puppet to take her ce, even though she wasn''t ultimately chosen. Among all the "backups," her quality was exceptional. Even without specific training from Raiden Ei, Raiden Mai possessed high level strength. Dealing with a mutated Hilichurl was an easy task for her.


    Of course, the non-lethal directive had been set by Lucas in advance. Without it, Raiden Mai, with herck of restraint, might have easily killed the chieftain.


    These Hilichurls, being simple-minded and revering strength, now gazed at Raiden Mai with newfound respect.


    "I''ll leave the management of these Hilichurls to you," Lucas said, patting Raiden Mai on the shoulder. "But they''ll need something to do."


    In the Serenitea Pot realm, the Hilichurls no longer needed to worry about survival, which would leave them with a lot of free time. Rather than letting them growzy and idle, it was better to find something productive for them to do.


    They couldn''t keep building houses forever. At Raiden Mai''s current rate, they''d have an entire neighborhood constructed in a few days, but it would be useless¡ªno one was going toe here to buy homes anyway.


    Lucas didn''t seem to realize why he was thinking this way. Perhaps it was a lingering influence from thest simtion, where he had lived the mindset of a capitalist.


    He had to extract every bit of value from these Hilichurls!


    Raiden Mai appeared to understand Lucas''s intent. She scanned him up and down before her gaze settled on the sword at his waist. "Master, may I borrow your sword for a moment?"


    "My sword?" Lucas didn''t think much of it and handed over the Lion''s Roar at his waist. "If you like it, I''ll get you one someday. This one was a gift from Keqing, so I can''t give it to you."


    Raiden Mai carefully held the sword, and from her eyes, beams of light emerged to scan the Lion''s Roar. She muttered to herself, "Authentic craftsmanship, quality verified. Material analysisplete. Replication and forging possible."


    ----


    Author''s Note: Fischl''s imagination is indeed scary... You think Mona is aware of him? ??


    Also I know I haven''t posted the extra chaps.. I''ll do it tomorrow! Keep sending stones for more extra Chapters!

 Chapter 50: Villain Simulator, Ch 50

    <h4>Chapter 50: Viin Simtor, Ch 50</h4>


    Lucas, half understanding, asked, "So you''re saying... you can forge this sword?"


    "Yes," Raiden Mai nodded. "Once I scan a weapon, I can analyze its materials and forging process."


    This made Lucas recall that Raiden Mai''s creator, Raiden Ei, was a renowned master cksmith. It wasn''t surprising that her automaton would inherit her knowledge and craftsmanship.


    "In that case, you can spend your free time forging weapons," Lucas said with a nod. "When I find other rare items in the future, I''ll bring them for you to examine too."


    On the continent of Teyvat, where monsters roamed and adventurers abounded, the weapons industry was highly profitable.


    However, the methods of forging quality weapons were often monopolized by major cksmith shops, and acquiring raw materials from mines¡ªlike Liyue''s famous "The Chasm"¡ªrequired extensive financial resources and proper documentation. For most people, entering this lucrative industry was next to impossible.


    But for Lucas, neither of these obstacles posed a problem. In terms of cksmithing, Raiden Mai inherited the expertise of Raiden Ei. As for raw material extraction, all of the mines and quarries within the Serenitea Pot realm were his private property.


    At that moment, Lucas had no idea that his offhandment would eventually have a massive impact on Teyvat''s cksmithing industry.


    ...


    After assigning tasks, Lucas exited the Serenitea Pot.


    Naturally, they couldn''t stay in the Hilichurl camp, so they resumed their journey toward Mondstadt, driving the caravan onward.


    As for the people who had been kidnapped, Lucas simply instructed his subordinates to untie them and let them go, ensuring they didn''t reveal any information.


    Fischl, of course, tagged along with Lucas''s group. In her eyes, Lucas had already be the "prophesied Immortal King of the Undead."


    While this situation gave Lucas a headache, the other members of the caravan had noints. The strange young girl actually brought some amusement to the group. Plus, with Oz scouting ahead, their safety was significantly increased.


    Not that safety was much of an issue anymore¡ªwith Lucas''s current power, ordinary monsters or bandits posed little threat, unless they encountered a berserk Dvalin, the Stormterror Dragon.


    Night fell quickly, and the caravan set up camp. After organizing the watch shifts, everyone settled down to rest.


    Lucas, not one to assert his authority as the leader, took the first watch.


    As he stared up at the sky full of stars and the bright crescent moon, the familiar voice of the system rang out.


    [Master, you''re cking again. How about a run on the simtor?]


    "Ugh, annoying!"


    [I''ve only said two words, and you''re already annoyed. I just want you to properly enjoy the simtor. All I ever see is youzing around.]


    "Alright, alright!" Lucas sat up. "I''m bored anyway, let''s do it."


    [Command received. Life Simtor is now starting.]


    [Please choose three talents from the following options. At the end of the simtion, one will be randomly retained as a permanent talent.]


    - Born into Power (Blue): You will be born into a very influential family.


    - Prone to Weight Gain (White): You will gain weight even from drinking water.


    - First ss of Red Wine (Purple): After drinking the "first ss of red wine" from the opposite sex, you will gain extraordinary power. Having this talent will significantly increase certain desires.


    - Eternal Bloodline (Blue): After death, you will reincarnate as an infant from your own bloodline, retaining your memories. (This talent can only be activated once.)


    - Foreign Schr (Green): Your skin will be darker, but you will gain three opposite-sexpanions while studying abroad.


    - Very Brave (Green): You will be braver than most people in all situations.


    - Keen Senses (Green): You have extraordinary hearing and sight, slightly increasing your critical hit and dodge rates.


    - Pearl the Pony (Green): You will own a pony named "Pearl." She cannot be ridden but is excellent at writing essays.


    - Ranged Mastery (Blue): You are naturally skilled with all ranged weapons.


    - Bartender (Green): You are exceptionally skilled at mixing drinks with shady stuff.


    "Another bunch of weird talents..."


    However, Eternal Bloodline caught Lucas''s attention. Its effect seemed somewhat simr to Try Again, as both involved a form of resurrection, though in different ways¡ªone being a direct revival, and the other a rebirth.


    Also, Born into Power sounded intriguing. Although it only altered his family background, the fact that it was rated as a blue talent suggested that the family wouldn''t just be well-off¡ªthey''d be truly powerful.


    "Let''s go with that," Lucas thought. "I''ll y the role of a rich young master this time, like Yujiro."


    "Uh..." Lucas scratched his head. "Eternal Bloodline, Born into Power, and what''s this First ss of Red Wine...?"


    Just as he was about to ask for rification, the system abruptly responded.


    [Talent selectionplete. Generating character profile.]


    "Wait, hold on!" Lucas interrupted. "I didn''t mean to select that! I just wanted to ask what ''First ss of Red Wine'' means!"


    [Isn''t it obvious? It refers to a girl''s first ''experience'' of love.]


    "So... you mean... first night? Why didn''t you just say that?"


    [If we said it outright, it could trigger censorship by certain unmentionable forces. Haven''t you heard how Sensual Encounter got censored and became Mischievous Shiba Inu?]


    "So even the system has to deal with content reviews now, huh?" Lucas chuckled. "But I didn''t mean to choose that talent!"


    [Oh well, just be more careful next time. The character profile has already been generated, and it cannot be changed.]


    "Damn system! You totally tricked me into choosing that!" Lucas muttered angrily.


    [Tehee!]


    "Tehee, my foot!"


    [The life simtion is about to begin.]


    [Age 0: You are about to be born into one of Mondstadt''s three most influential families. Rolling the dice to determine your mother...]


    - 1-2: Gunnhildr Family


    - 3-4: Ragnvindr Family


    - 5-6: Lawrence Family


    "Rolling the dice to pick a mom? What the hell?"


    Suddenly, a finely crafted six-sided dice appeared in front of Lucas, seemingly made of some sort of bone.


    "Didn''t we usually get to choose this ourselves?" Lucas asked, confused. "Why are we using dice now?"


    [First, it adds an element of unpredictability to the simtion. Second, don''t you think it''s absurd for an unborn baby to choose which family they''re born into?]


    "I think rolling a dice to pick a mom is even more absurd!"


    Despite his frustration, Lucas knew he couldn''t change the system''s rules, so he rolled the dice after shaking it in his hand.


    The Gunnhildr family was a noble house, the Ragnvindr family was incredibly wealthy, and the Lawrence family... well, they were like a bunch of outcasts.


    "Just please, anything but the Lawrence family! I''m begging you, dice gods!"


    ording to the famous Murphy''s Law, if something can go wrong, no matter how unlikely, it will go wrong.


    Lucas didn''t believe in it before.


    But now, looking at the dice with the number "6" face-up in front of him, he couldn''t help but curse under his breath.


    Although the Lawrence family was indeed one of Mondstadt''s three great families, and a thousand years ago, it had even surpassed the other two families in wealth and wielded enormous power over Mondstadt''s life and death, that was ancient history.


    A millennium ago, under the leadership of the warrior woman Vennessa of Nan, the Lawrence family''s rule was overthrown.


    Though they weren''tpletely destroyed, their former influence was entirely gone, and their descendants became known as the "Bloodline of Sinners," shunned by all.


    In other words, this so-called Born into Power talent didn''t bring any benefits to Lucas. Instead, he was born into infamy.


    [Age 0: You are born into Mondstadt''s prestigious Lawrence family. Your father, Ingobert Lawrence, is the head of the family. As the second son of the family head, your birth garnered little attention. There was no celebration or blessings¡ªbecause you are an illegitimate child.]


    [Your mother is a simple and kind maid, responsible for feeding the horses and cleaning the stables. Your birth was merely the result of one of Ingobert''s drunken whims.]


    [To the Lawrence family, still powerful in Mondstadt, this was no more than a trivial matter. Ironically, your father, Ingobert, can easily distinguish between his thirteen prized horses but doesn''t even know your mother''s name.]


    [Nheless, the "noble" seed took root in "lowly" soil. Driven by maternal instinct, your mother was determined to give birth to you. However, due to her frail health andck of nutrition, you were born prematurely at seven months. As a premature baby, you didn''t even have the strength to cry.]


    [Your birth was quickly brought to the attention of the family head, Ingobert. He actually came to see you¡ªyour frail body resembling a hairless pup, your nearly transparent skin revealing your internal organs.]


    [Perhaps out of idle curiosity, or because he didn''t believe you would survive, Ingobert unusually permitted your existence. You became the only baby in the Lawrence family not to receive a family blessing.]


    Something''s off...


    Lucas was puzzled. ording tomon knowledge, the Lawrence family had long fallen from power. How could they still be described as "influential"?


    Could this be another case of the simtor''s timeline diverging from reality?


    [Age 1: Against the odds, you managed to survive. Your vitality was astonishingly strong. Lacking milk, your mother fed you horse milk. Without proper clothing, you slept peacefully on a bed of straw.]


    [Age 2: You started to be aware of your surroundings and asked your mother who your father was. Each time, she told you that your father was the most powerful man in Mondstadt. You didn''t fully understand what that meant at your young age, but you still held some hope for your "father."]


    [Age 3: You met your father for the first time¡ªa tall, handsome, middle-aged man with a short beard. However, he only remembered that he had a bastard child in the stables by pure coincidence.]


    [Ingobert had assumed you would have died by now, but to his surprise, you were not only alive but healthy. He didn''t care much, though, as he already had a legitimate son two years older than you.]


    [Unlike you, your half-brother, named "Parsifal," was the legitimate heir of the Lawrence family and destined to be the future head.]


    [Still, you were Ingobert''s blood, and he seemed to sense some potential in you. He decided you should receive formal education. However, your mother remained nameless, and you had no right to inherit the Lawrence surname.]


    [He gave you a name, seemingly out of casual thought: "Eberhart." In Old Mondstadtian, anguage only the Lawrence family still used, the name means "Child of Chance."]


    "Eberhart?"


    The name sparked a memory in Lucas.


    For many Genshin Impact yers, the name "Eberhart" might be obscure. It was the same for Lucas, as it only appeared in snippets of lore within quests and weapon descriptions.


    But two things vaguely stood out in his mind.


    First, Eberhart was a noble from Mondstadt a thousand years ago.


    Second, Eberhart wasn''t a member of the Lawrence family.


    Of course, the simtor''s narrative often diverged from reality, as Lucas''s previous experiences had shown¡ªthere was always about a 30% chance of things being altered.


    For instance, in the simtor, Shenhe had lived with her family, Lucas had inexplicably be the "Doctor," and Jean was severely injured during the battle against Stormterror¡ªthings that didn''t align with actual events.


    However, the simtor''s changes weren''t entirely baseless. From the information gathered so far, it seemed likely that the reason the Lawrence family retained their power in this scenario was because... the simtor was set a thousand years in the past.


    Great. Last time, the timeline was thrown back five hundred years. Now, it''s a full millennium.


    [Age 4: You began receiving aristocratic education alongside other Lawrence children. As the most powerful family in Mondstadt, the Lawrence children could never be educated alongside themon rabble.]


    [Your status as a bastard quickly became known. After all, while the other children practiced writing the Lawrence name in elegant script, you were excluded.]


    [Your clothing was less luxurious, your stationery less refined, and they mockingly called you the "Stable Master''s Son."]


    [However, your half-brother Parsifal was always kind to you. Unlike the other noble children, he didn''t look down on you with scorn.]


    [You admired the other children¡ªespecially your brother. Back in your quarters, you asked your mother what you had to do to be a true noble like them.]


    [With a gentle touch on your cheek, your motherforted you: "Eberhart, you only need to do one thing¡ªendure. No matter what happens, endure, and one day, you will get everything you desire."]


    [Age 5: Your mother''s words remained etched in your heart. You knew that the key to restoring your noble statusy in gaining your father''s recognition.]


    [So, you threw yourself into your studies and trained in martial arts with equal determination.]


    [Age 6: Mondstadt''s nobles considered spears to be the weapons of ves. Only swords symbolized their noble status. The Lawrence family was no exception. The swordsmanship taught by your instructors was less of abat skill and more of a ceremonial dance.]


    [Compared to the other noble children, you had one great advantage¡ªyou were hardworking. For every move they practiced once, you practiced five or ten times. Even the instructors who looked down on you as a bastard began to appreciate your dedication.]


    [Age 7: You were confident that your swordsmanship would finally earn your father''s approval. But to your dismay, you discovered that your brother Parsifal was a natural-born genius. Despite never practicing as hard as you, his skill far surpassed yours.]


    [Time and time again, you challenged your half-brother, only to be soundly defeated every time. You began to realize that in terms of swordsmanship, you would never surpass him.]


    [Age 8: The Lawrence family was hosting a youth swordsmanship tournament. This was your perfect chance to prove yourself to your father. However, you were destined to be nothing more than Parsifal''s shadow.]


    [To Parsifal, winning this tournament was a trivial matter, but for you, it was your only chance to change your fate. Therefore, you decided to...]


    [1: Enter thepetition honorably.]


    [2: Resort to trickery.]


    In situations like this, trickery was clearly the only option.


    -----


    Author''s Note: Well here beguns a new simtion, might be my fav one after rosalyn arc so less goo!

 Chapter 51: Villain Simulator, Ch 51

    <h4>Chapter 51: Viin Simtor, Ch 51</h4>


    Lucas was already well-versed in the simtor''s patterns.


    "I''ll pick the second option."


    [Your desire for victory ultimately overcame your sense of honor. The day before thepetition, you pretended to kindly offer Parsifal a piece of candy. Unaware of your trick, Parsifal epted the gesture from his ''brother'' and ate the tampered candy without suspicion.]


    [He smiled apologetically and said, "Eberhart, I know tomorrow''spetition means a lot to you. If you need me to... I can go easy on you. Winning or losing doesn''t matter to me."]


    [Faced with his offer, your response was...]


    - 1. Well, I''ll leave it to you, brother!


    - 2. No, that would tarnish the honor of the Lawrence family.


    Since you''ve already drugged him, there''s no need to have him go easy on you. Furthermore, your father Ingobert, a highly skilled swordsman, might notice if Parsifal holds back. If that happens, your n will lose all its meaning.


    [You shook your head and said, "No, that would tarnish the honor of the Lawrence family."]


    [Parsifal blinked in surprise, but then smiled, clearly impressed.]


    [Indeed, no matter how many times Parsifal loses, he will always remain the legitimate heir of the Lawrence family. But if you lose just once, you may never have another chance to turn your life around.]


    [Parsifal''s kindness, his carefree attitude, and his righteousness stem from the fact that he was born with a silver spoon in his mouth. Everything you strive for, everything you dream of, is something he simply doesn''t care about.]


    [The next day, the tournament begins as scheduled. Both you and Parsifal emerge as dark horses in thepetition. None of the other children are your match, and the two of you ultimately meet in the final round.]


    [Your presence in the finals surprises everyone. After all, you are a mere illegitimate child without even a family name, and standing here is an insult to the other noble children.]


    [However, no one dares to voice their objections. Even as a bastard, you are still the son of the family head. For the first time, you feel your father''s eyes on you¡ªthis might be the first time he''s ever looked at you seriously.]


    [The final match begins. Faced with Parsifal''s aggressive attacks, you continue to retreat, just as nned. You''re only waiting for the effects of the drug to kick in.]


    [Finally, the drug takes effect. Parsifal''s movements be sluggish, and in that moment, you step forward and strike his hand with your wooden sword, knocking his weapon from his grasp.]


    [Wracked with abdominal pain from the drug, Parsifal falls to his knees. At this moment, you...]


    - 1. Defeat him outright.


    - 2. Put down your weapon to demonstrate fairness.


    This is likely a trap. While it may seem best to defeat him directly, Parsifal is still the heir of the Lawrence family. If he loses, it would be a great embarrassment to Ingobert. You can''t afford to lose, but you can''t afford to win outright either.


    "I''ll choose the second option."


    [Instead of seizing the opportunity to win, youy down your weapon and announce to everyone that your opponent is feeling unwell. You offer to wait until he recovers before continuing the match.]


    [This is a risky move, but fortunately, it pays off. Your father, Ingobert, deres that both you and Parsifal will share the championship.]


    [No one could have predicted that an eight-year-old child would be so calcting. After the tournament, your father summoned you and your mother for the first time. You were thrilled, thinking that you would finally receive his recognition. But what awaited you was a choice.]


    [Your father offered to continue supporting you and, if you performed well, he might even grant you the Lawrence surname. However, in return, you would have to sever all ties with your past, especially with your low-born mother.]


    [To be a noble, you would need to abandon everything. But as you looked at your mother, you already knew your answer: to hell with wealth and status. To hell with the Lawrence family. How could they everpare to your mother?]


    [However, your mother didn''t give you the chance to choose. Seeing your decision in your eyes, she took a step back and struck her head against the stone pir behind her. Her fragile yet resilient life ended before you.]


    [Your father merely remarked, "She was indeed a remarkable woman. You should thank her. She gave you the chance to change your fate without the burden of beingbeled unfilial."]


    [You wanted tosh out, but your mother''s words echoed in your mind: Endure. Always endure.]


    ["Thank you, Father..." you said, bowing your head. But the respect in your eyes had long since faded, reced by a deep, smoldering hatred.]


    [Age 9: Since your recognition by Ingobert, your status within the Lawrence family has risen quickly. Though youck your brother Parsifal''s natural talent with a sword, you are far more shrewd and mature than him.]


    [Your father seems to be growing increasingly fond of you. Were it not for your status as a bastard, which prevents you from taking the Lawrence surname, he might even reconsider who the future heir should be.]


    [Age 10: Your father has two great passions¡ªwatching diator battles and going on adventures. The diator arena is one of Mondstadt''s signature attractions. Nobles train their ves to be diators, sending them to fight to the death for entertainment.]


    [A powerful diator, like a prized horse, is another way for nobles to unt their wealth and status.]


    [Of course, the nobles consider themselves "generous." If a diator wins enough battles, they are granted their freedom.]


    [Your brother Parsifal detests the bloodshed of the arena and avoids it, considering it barbaric. But you often apany your father to the diator battles in his ce.]


    [Age 11: On your birthday, your father takes you to the arena and presents you with a special gift¡ªa diator of your own.]


    [You spot a particrly striking figure in the arena. Though over fifty years old, this diator remains strong and agile, using brutal spear techniques to defeat one younger, stronger opponent after another.]


    [This diator belongs to the Lawrence family. His name has long been forgotten, and he is known simply as the "diator ve." You call him to your side as his new master, pinning a small flower to his chest and smiling, "Will you be my diator?"]


    [Your father is surprised by your choice. Most people would have chosen a younger, stronger fighter, but since it''s your decision, he doesn''t object.]


    [In the diator''s clouded eyes, you see a flicker of light as he kneels before you, swearing his loyalty.]


    [Achievement Unlocked: diator''s Fondness]


    [Reward Item: diator''s Nostalgia]


    [diator''s Finale]


    [- Type: Set (Collecting 2, 3, or 4 pieces will grant additional bonuses)]


    [- Effect: (1/4) Increases attack by 5%]


    [- Description: No one knows why the legendary diator always wears this small flower on his chest. It''s the only weak spot on this brutal warrior''s body.]


    A "set item," simr to Genshin Impact''s artifacts.


    Unexpectedly, you''ve earned a reward like this.


    Each artifact tells a story, and it seems this storyline is connected to the diator''s Finale artifact, which is why you received this reward.


    However, a single artifact''s effect isn''t very impressive. It looks like you''ll need to collect more pieces to unlock its full potential.


    ---


    [Age 12: The diator, now your loyal servant, could have long since earned his freedom, but out of gratitude for your kindness, he remains by your side. He uses his spear to win you honor and also serves as your personal guard. One night, you ask him to teach you his spear techniques.]


    [The diator is surprised by your request. After all, in Mondstadt, spear techniques are considered lowly skills, meant only for ves and diators. Nevertheless, he agrees without hesitation.]


    [Your reason for learning spear techniques is simple: you know you will never match your father and brother in swordsmanship. Thus, you decide to secretly train with the spear.]


    [What the diator teaches you is less a formal technique and more a brutal style honed through countless life-and-death battles. Its only purpose is to find the opportunity to kill your opponent by any means necessary.]


    [Age 13: Driven by the fire of revenge, you quickly master all the diator''s spear techniques. Of course, you are still no match for him, as the techniques can only be improved through realbat experience.]


    [You name this style simply, "Duelist''s Spear." It''s a technique meant to be used in one-on-one duels, where it reaches its peak potential.]


    [Achievement Unlocked: diator''s Teachings]


    [Reward: Skill¡ªDuelist''s Spear]


    - Level: B


    - Effect: Increases attack by 50% when fighting a single enemy.


    ---


    [Age 14: To better hide your ambitions, you start pretending to be a spoiled yboy, surrounding yourself with a group of good-for-nothing friends. Gambling, bird-fighting, bug-battling, horse racing... you indulge in nearly every vice. Of course, women are no exception.]


    [Your first woman is an 18-year-old girl chosen as a "sacrifice" for the Windblume Festival. This once grand festival has been corrupted under the rule of the Lawrence family.]


    [During the festival, a young woman is selected to throw a ceremonial feather into the crowd. Whoever catches it receives her ''blessing''¡ªthough the feather always ends up in the hands of the Lawrence family, and the poor girl is forced to offer her "first ss of wine" to the nobleman who catches it.] (virginity)


    [This year, the chosen girl throws the feather to you.]


    [That night, the girl is delivered to your room. You don''t refuse her, knowing that even if you did, she would never leave the Lawrence estate untouched.]


    [The girl, chosen for her beauty, blushes shyly as she avoids eye contact. Out of curiosity, you ask, "Why did you pick me?"]


    [The girl hesitates nervously before replying, "Because you''re the youngest... and you reminded me of my little brother."]


    [Indeed, the girl knows her fate is sealed. She would rather choose the least threatening of her captors than be defiled by one of the more grotesque noblemen.]


    [Her answer makes you smile. You decide...]


    - 1: Do nothing.


    - 2: Show her that you''re not as small as she thinks.


    - 3: Secretly help her escape.


    "Of course, I''ll choose the second option."


    Lucas wasn''t naive enough to rebel against his family for the sake of a stranger.


    ["I''m not small at all." After saying this, you proved that the Lawrence family''s second son was quite honest through your actions.]


    [Though you''re only 14 years old, years of training have already given you the physical strength of an adult.]


    [Your spear was stained with blood¡ªa scene that had often appeared in your dreams, but today, it became reality in this manner. You couldn''t help but find it a bit ironic.]


    [To the nobles of the Lawrence family, women were never in short supply.]


    [Unless someone had a particr fondness for purity, the opportunity to im the Windblume Festival''s "sacrifice" was of little importance to most members of the Lawrence family. They had far too many pleasures and privileges to enjoy in Mondstadt, with women merely being a small part of that.]


    [However, what mattered most was that this "sacrifice" had to be imed by a Lawrence family member. This symbolized the absolute privilege of the Lawrence family in Mondstadt and their unshakable status.]


    [Your "First ss of Red Wine" talent activates. Depending on the element you absorb from your target, you gain a permanent attribute boost.]


    [Element detected: Electro. Attribute gained: Strength.]


    [Your strength has permanently increased by 10%.]


    So this was the effect of the "First ss of Red Wine" talent.


    The activation conditions weren''t simple, but the rewards were permanent attribute boosts.


    Though people without a Vision couldn''t use elemental powers, everyone still had their own "element" within them.


    The talent''s effect was to absorb a target''s element and convert it into a corresponding attribute boost.


    It seems Electro represents strength. As for the other elements and their corresponding attributes, it looks like I''ll need to learn through personal experience.


    [Perhaps due to nervousness, the girl softly murmured the word "brother," and in return, you granted her the only kindness you had left, calling her "sister."]


    [After it was over, you enjoyed the brief calm after the storm. The girl would leave before dawn, and you told her she could take anything she wanted from the room. To maintain your image as a spoiled noble, you had collected many valuable antiques. Any one of them could provide this girl with a good life.]


    [However, she simply took a delicate cufflink. Then she revealed a small secret to you¡ªshe didn''t actually have a brother. The reason she threw the feather to you was simply because you were the most handsome.]


    [You weren''t sure whether she was telling the truth or not, nor did you care to find out. In the vast city of Mondstadt, the two of you, separated by your status, would never cross paths again. A few years from now, she would marry someone else, and the Windblume Festival would always have a new "sacrifice."]


    [When your brother Parsifal learned of this incident, he was furious, scolding you for how you could do such a thing.]


    [Though your rtionship with your brother had always been good, Parsifal was something of an oddity among the Lawrence nobles. He despised the excesses of nobility and was fascinated by stories of heroic thieves. His bookshelf was filled with tales of vigntes rather than poetry and etiquette.]


    [Faced with his scolding, you calmly countered, "The problem isn''t me; it''s Mondstadt''s system. Even if I hadn''t done it, the Windblume Festival''s sacrifice would still be vited. If you''re so righteous, why not fight this rotten system instead of ming me, someone equally forced to ept their fate?"]


    [Your retort left Parsifal momentarily speechless. While you couldn''t surpass him in swordsmanship, when it came to rhetoric and debate, ten Parsifals couldn''t best you.]


    [You continued to provoke him: "My dear brother, if you''re somitted to justice, why not be like the vigntes you admire and fight back? Or are your ideals just empty words, and in the end, you can''t let go of your noble status?"]


    [Your taunt had the desired effect. Parsifal dered earnestly, "Even if it''s only a little, I want to use my power to change this corrupt world!"]


    [As you watched Parsifal storm off, you knew that your n had just fallen perfectly into ce.]


    ---


    {Age 15: Once again, you were chosen as the target during the Windblume Festival. This was no ident. Compared to the other Lawrence nobles, whose very appearance repulsed the chosen sacrifices, your youthful, handsome face naturally made you a more appealing choice.}


    [Although some of your family members were displeased, they didn''t dare voice their objections. Even though you were a bastard, it was clear to everyone that in recent years, Ingobert had been favoring you more and more. Receiving the Lawrence surname was only a matter of time.]


    [The chosen sacrifices not only had to be beautiful but also had to be pure maidens, which made your talent perfectlypatible.]


    [Target''s element: Anemo. Attribute gained: Agility.]


    [Your agility has permanently increased by 17%.]


    Not only do the attributes vary, but even the percentage of the boost differs. It seems this also depends on the individual.


    [This time, Parsifal didn''t say anything because he now had a new "hobby."]


    [Throughout the year, a vignte had been active in Mondstadt, stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. Armed with a dark longsword, this masked figure roamed the city''s alleys, stealing from the nobility to help the needy or teaching bullies a lesson. People had started calling him "Phantom Thief," a glimmer of hope in the corrupt, decaying city of Mondstadt.]


    [This "Phantom Thief" was, of course, your brother Parsifal. It was a secret only the two of you knew. His cloak, mask, and even the timing and routes of his operations were all nned with your help. In this way, you yed the role of Alfred to his Batman, selflessly supporting his vignte activities.]


    [Within a year, Phantom Thief hadmitted countless acts of theft and vignte justice, yet Mondstadt''s soldiers remained clueless. Your clever nningbined with Parsifal''sbat prowess made them an unstoppable force.]


    [Unless captured, the identity of the Phantom Thief would forever remain a mystery. After all, who would ever suspect that Mondstadt''s greatest rebel was none other than the heir to the city''s most powerful noble family¡ªthe Lawrence family?]


    -----


    Author''s Note: Extra chap!

 Chapter 52: Villain Simulator, Ch 52

    <h4>Chapter 52: Viin Simtor, Ch 52</h4>


    [Age 16: As expected, during this year''s Windblume Festival, the feather once againnded in your hands.]


    [Target Element: Cryo. Attribute: Defense]


    [Your defense has permanently increased by 16%.]


    [With such a useful talent, you naturally wouldn''t limit its use to just the Windblume Festival. As the Lawrence family''s yboy, each year, at least a dozen respectable young women would fall for your charm, allowing you to drink their first ss of red wine.]


    [This was inevitable. After all, in the world of indulgence, it was hard to find someone pure. If you relied on force, you could get away with it a few times due to the Lawrence family''s influence, but if you did it too often, trouble would surely follow. The only workable approach was to act as a charming yboy.]


    [The girls fulfilled their vanity and other desires through you, while you gained the strength you needed from them. It was a fair exchange.]


    ---


    [Age 17: The reputation of the "Phantom Thief" was growing. Initially, your brother Parsifal''s actions were small, but in recent months, he had be more daring, even going so far as to beat up a noble who was about to assault amoner girl.]


    [Where there''s oppression, there''s resistance. Themoners of Mondstadt, long oppressed by the nobility, began to see the Phantom Thief as a symbol of rebellion. The once faint spark of defiance seemed to be igniting into a me.]


    [The nobles of Mondstadt, led by the Lawrence family, couldn''t ignore this any longer. The ipetent soldiers of Mondstadt were powerless against the Thief, so the nobles issued bounties, promising great rewards to anyone who could capture the Phantom Thief.]


    [Of course, you couldn''t let the Thief¡ªyour brother Parsifal¡ªget caught just yet. Even if he were captured now, as the next heir of the Lawrence family, he wouldn''t face severe punishment. You had to wait until hemitted an unforgivable crime.]


    [The bounty attracted many skilled hunters, but thanks to your meticulous nning and Parsifal''s swordsmanship, none were sessful. Even those who managed to find the Thief were easily defeated by his skill.]


    [You thought Parsifal''s "Robin Hood game" could continue indefinitely, until one day, a foreign woman wielding a spear tore down a bounty notice and came to the Lawrence estate.]


    [This woman possessed an exotic beauty, but her blue eyes were devoid of emotion. Her weapon was a peculiar spear¡ªits tip thin as a needle. From your knowledge of spear techniques, you knew that only someone skilled in precise strikes could use such a weapon effectively. The person wielding this spear was either aplete novice or a master.]


    [The woman introduced herself simply as the "Spear Witch" and immediately began hunting. Within a month, she seeded¡ªshe tracked down the Phantom Thief and engaged him in battle. The fight was evenly matched, and Parsifal had to retreat.]


    [The nobles criticized the Spear Witch, thinking she wasn''t aspetent as her reputation suggested. However, the Spear Witch revealed a shocking truth: the Phantom Thief used noble sword techniques, indicating that he was likely a noble. She couldn''t risk killing him.]


    [This revtion shocked everyone¡ªincluding you. Although Parsifal had concealed his sword style during his escapades, the Spear Witch had still detected the subtle signs of his noble training, proving her exceptional skill.]


    [You spoke with Parsifal about the Spear Witch, and he admitted that her power was formidable. Even he wasn''t sure he could defeat her. You urged him to stop his activities temporarily to avoid further risk.]


    [Although deeply moved, Parsifal refused your advice. "If I retreat at the first sign of trouble, my sense of justice would be too fragile."]


    [To ensure Parsifal wouldn''t be captured by the Spear Witch, you devised even more careful ns. Meanwhile, the Spear Witch seemed determined to catch him, deciding to stay in Mondstadt for an extended time.]


    ---


    [Age 18: Unlike previous Windblume Festivals, this time the chosen "sacrifice" was a stunning red-haired girl. Red hair was rare in Mondstadt, and her beauty far surpassed that of past sacrifices.]


    [For some reason, you developed a special fascination with her fiery red hair. Strangely, despite drinking the "first ss of red wine" from many sacrifices, you had never encountered Pyro Element. You had a feeling this girl might be the missing piece of your puzzle.]


    [However, this time, the girl didn''t choose you or anyone else. Instead, clutching the feather, she jumped from the tform. You now had to decide...]


    [1. Rush forward to save her (likely resulting in injury).]


    [2. Do nothing.]


    Heroismes at a price.


    Since the system warned of injury, it likely wouldn''t be minor. However, Lucas was curious about what attribute Pyro might boost.


    Based on prior experiences, Electro boosted strength, Geo enhanced constitution, Anemo increased agility, Cryo strengthened defense, Hydro improved mental rity, and Dendro boosted vitality. For some reason, Lucas had never encountered a girl with Pyro before.


    ---


    [The height of the tform ensured you''d be injured upon catching her, but you rushed forward without hesitation, holding the red-haired girl in your arms.]


    [She survived, but you felt intense pain in your right hand¡ªit was likely a broken bone.]


    [The girl''s actions were a direct challenge to the Lawrence family''s authority. As the guards moved to arrest her, you held her close and dered, "If you want to convict her, I won''t object. But since I caught the feather, this woman belongs to me tonight."]


    [The guards, knowing your status, didn''t question your decision. That night, the red-haired girl was delivered to your room, tightly bound. Instead of hearing cries or pleas for mercy, you were met with fiery curses.]


    [Faced with the unruly red-haired girl, you had to decide...]


    [1. Untie her.]


    [2. Punish her immediately.]


    Ah...


    Might as well punish her immediately.


    Frankly, Lucas wasn''t interested in wasting time on an NPC with no name.


    After all, the only reason he saved this red-haired girl was because her element might finally be the Pyro he had yet to encounter.


    However, after a moment of consideration, he shook his head and said, "I''ll choose the first option, and... activate immersive mode."


    This would be his first time entering immersive mode in this simtion.


    It wasn''t that Lucascked desires, but he always felt awkward about experiencing the Windblume Festival''s sacrifices in this way. It felt too much like forcibly taking someone, and immersive mode would make it feel too real.


    ---


    [Immersive mode activated.]


    Lucas found himself in a luxurious room, filled with opulent furniture and fine artwork. The most striking item was arge portrait of himself¡ªhis face pale and slightly rebellious.


    On the oversized bed, which could fit at least ten people,y the red-haired girl, bound tightly like a gift waiting to be unwrapped.


    ying the role of "Eberhart," Lucas approached the girl. As described in the text, she had fiery red hair and a pale, beautiful face.


    "Keep staring, and I''ll gouge your eyes out!" she snapped at him with fiery defiance, though her current position made the threat meaningless.


    "You already broke one of my hands, and now you want to take my eyes?" Lucas replied with the arrogant tone of a noble. His right hand was wrapped in a bandage, a reminder of the injury he sustained saving her.


    "Hmph!" The girl scoffed. "I wish I could crush all of you filthy nobles!"


    "Too bad. Tonight, you''re going to get even filthier..." Lucas smirked, gripping her chin. "...because of me."


    "You¡ª!" Her face flushed red as she bit her lip in frustration.


    "You should feel lucky that you ended up with me tonight," Lucas said as he gently tapped her cheek. "Unlike some of the other Lawrences, I don''t have any strange preferences. Otherwise, you''d be tied up in a dungeon right now, getting whipped."


    "You''re no better!" the red-haired girl spat back. "Isn''t this kind of bondage your twisted hobby too?"


    "Tying up wild beasts requires strong ropes," Lucas replied casually. "Look at me¡ªI''m not bad-looking, and I''m in good shape. You''re not exactly losing out."


    "Shameless!"


    The red-haired girl rolled her eyes but couldn''t help stealing a nce at him.


    Compared to the other greasy, bloated nobles, this young man was undeniably handsome. His skin was well-maintained, and hisshes¡ªdamn it! How could a man have eyshes that long? They were longer than hers!


    ---


    Lucas''s gut instinct had been correct¡ªthe red-haired girl indeed possessed Pyro.


    [Target Element: Pyro. Attribute gained: Elemental Power.]


    [Your limit has been removed. You can now control the power of Pyro.]


    What?


    Pyro wasn''t just boosting attributes but granting direct control over fire?


    Unlike the Vision system, this was not an "external organ" that gave him the power to manipte the elements, but rather, it directly lifted the limitations of the body.


    The girl who brought the fire element to Lucas was indeed like a me that burned the entire room.


    In the beginning, Lucas thought that she was only trying to save her family, so she worked hard, but in the second half of the game, the red-haired girl, it seems that she has already forgotten her original intention.


    After everything was over, Lucas dozed off briefly. When he awoke, the red-haired girl had already tidied herself up and was preparing to leave.


    Even though the Lawrence family enjoyed the Windblume Festival sacrifices at home, they never allowedmoners to spend the entire night in the mansion. They believed it would tarnish the sacred and noble grounds of their residence.


    Lucas had no intention of stopping her. The red-haired girl was different from the other women he had encountered before... but only just.


    Just like those girls, their connection wouldst for only this night.


    "By the way..." Lucas asked casually, as if to break the awkwardness. "You have some decent skills. Have you trained inbat?"


    "I learned it from my father."


    Perhaps because of what had happened earlier, the red-haired girl seemed less hostile toward him, responding calmly: "He was an upright knight in service, but after punching a noble, he was imprisoned. I agreed to be the Windblume Festival sacrifice in the hopes of freeing him."


    Lucas knew this was just another lie of the nobility. Even if the girl offered herself as a sacrifice, her father wouldn''t be released. In Mondstadt, many crimes could be negotiated, but when it involved nobles, thew was ruthlessly strict.


    "I want to ask you something..." the red-haired girl suddenly spoke. "I heard that those who spend the night in your room can take any item from it. Is that true?"


    "Of course" Lucas nodded quickly,ughing. "You worked so hard tonight; take a few extra things if you like."


    "No need," the red-haired girl replied, removing a portrait of Eberhart¡ªLucas¡ªfrom the wall. "I''ll take this painting."


    "The painting is nice, but it''s not worth much," Lucas said, puzzled. "Don''t tell me you''ve fallen for me and want to keep my portrait to look at from time to time?"


    "No, I hate you." The red-haired girl gave Lucas aplicated look. "I''m going to keep this painting so that my descendants can spit on it."


    Lucas didn''t get angry. Instead, heughed. "Being remembered that way doesn''t sound too bad."


    "Goodbye," the red-haired girl said, opening the door. She paused, then shook her head. "No, I hope we never meet again."


    "By the way, what''s your father''s name?" Lucas asked suddenly. "Maybe I can arrange something to have him released sooner."


    "Our family name is rare in Mondstadt. His surname is..." The red-haired girl spoke herst words before closing the door: "Ragnvindr."


    The red-haired girl left.


    Lucas was stunned.


    Ragnvindr!


    Isn''t that Diluc''s family name?


    Could this girl be Diluc''s ancestor?


    No, no. She''s a woman, so her surname wouldn''t be passed down. It must be her brother or something.


    Lucas mulled it over for a while, then pped his thigh andughed at himself. "Who cares? It''s just a simtion. Whether it''s Ragnvindr or Gunnhildr, they can''t escape!"


    ---


    [Entering Text Mode]


    [Age 19: The "cat-and-mouse game" between the Spear Witch and the Phantom Thief continued. She had be your brother''s most troublesome adversary. However, ording to Parsifal, there were several asions where the Spear Witch could have caught him but chose to let him go, leaving him confused.]


    [You hadn''t given up on mastering the spear, but unfortunately, the diator had nothing more to teach you. Often, you would practice your spear techniques under the moonlit skies¡ªthe fire of revenge in your heart never extinguished by your luxurious life.]


    [One day, while practicing, you were suddenly ambushed by someone using spear techniques. Although you thought few could match your skill in Mondstadt, you were soundly defeated.]


    [It was only when your opponent stopped that you realized the one who attacked you was none other than the Spear Witch, who had been hunting the Phantom Thief.]


    -----


    Author''s Note: I wonder what''ll be diluc''s reaction..

 Chapter 53: Villain Simulator, Ch 53

    <h4>Chapter 53: Viin Simtor, Ch 53</h4>


    ["The second son of the esteemed Lawrence family, practicing a form of spear technique scorned by nobles¡ªthis is quite amusing," the Spear Witch seems to be quite intrigued by you: "However, your spear skills are still far too immature."]


    [You know that the Spear Witch possesses remarkable strength. Seeing such a master of spear techniques right in front of you, you decide...]


    [1. Be her disciple]


    [2. Recruit her under yourmand]


    [3. Walk away]


    Recruiting her would undoubtedly be the fastest way to gain the Spear Witch''s power.


    However, right now, she is busy hunting down the elusive Phantom Thief and likely won''t be avable to serve you.


    "Option one!"


    [You wish to be the disciple of the Spear Witch and learn her spear techniques. She doesn''t reject your request but makes her own demand¡ªthat you use your informants to provide her with information on the Phantom Thief.]


    [This is an easy task for you, and you agree to the deal, beginning your training under the Spear Witch.]


    [One day, out of curiosity, you ask her why she is so obsessed with chasing the Phantom Thief. If it''s just for a reward, with her skills, she could easily take on other tasks.]


    [The Spear Witch lets out a soft sigh. She pulls back her long hair, revealing a sin mark engraved on her pale forehead. She then tells you a story.]


    [Once, the Phantom Thief infiltrated a noble''s residence to steal a silver urn filled with jewelry. Just as he was about to escape after seeding, the Spear Witch tracked him down.]


    [Unexpectedly, instead of fleeing, the Phantom Thief used a dagger to pry the blue crystal from the urn, handing it to the Spear Witch with a smile, saying: "I never realized that the one chasing me was such a beauty. This blue crystal, as beautiful as your blue eyes, is my gift to you."]


    [For the first time, the cold and razor-sharp Spear Witch showed a flustered expression, while the Phantom Thief seized the moment to escape.]


    [However, the story quickly spread. The noble who had been robbed learned of it, and to punish the Spear Witch, they branded an evesting sin mark on her once-beautiful face.]


    [The Spear Witch took out a ne from under her clothes¡ªa beautiful blue crystal. She tells you that sheter bought the crystal back with her own money as a reminder to herself that no matter what, she must capture the Phantom Thief and avenge the shame of the sin mark.]


    [It''s indeed something worthy of hatred, but in her eyes, you see no trace of resentment. After all, who keeps their enemy''s gift close to their heart?]


    [Achievement unlocked: Noble Silver Urn]


    [You have obtained a reward item: Noble Silver Urn]


    [Noble Silver Urn]


    [Type: Set]


    [Effect: (1/4) Elemental damage increased by 5%]


    [Description: Once belonging to an old Mondstadt noble family, its hollow interior seems to echo with the mournful sound of the wind.]


    Another relic?


    This "Noble Silver Urn" must be the same one stolen by the Phantom Thief in the Spear Witch''s story.


    Just like the previous [diator''s Finale].


    So, as long as you experience events rted to certain relics in the simtor, you can obtain rewards.


    Considering Mihoyo''s ability to weave hidden plots in item stories, it seems you can expect to get quite a few more rewards like this in the future.


    [Age 20: Under the guidance of the Spear Witch, your spear skills have improved significantly, but you still can''t surpass her. Your swordsmanship is no match for Parsifal, and your spear techniques pale inparison to the Spear Witch. This leaves you feeling somewhat disheartened.]


    [Perhaps noticing your disappointment, the Spear Witch shares the secret of her invincibility. She shows you her left eye, where a mysterious symbol seems to be engraved in her beautiful blue iris.]


    [She tells you that it is a "magic eye" that can see the "lines of death"¡ªthose who fear death will reveal their fatal weak points, which, when struck, lead to immediate death. The spear in her hand, as sharp as a needle''s point, is called "Flowing Moon Needle," designed specifically for this purpose.]


    [You immediately ask your master how to gain the ability to see the lines of death, but the Spear Witch tells you that only by killing the owner of the magic eye in battle can this power be inherited¡ªin other words, you must kill her to gain the magic eye.]


    [You cannot kill the Spear Witch because she has no "line of death." In her own words, only those who fear death will show their line, and she has never feared death, so she has none.]


    [You know that in order to defeat your father, Ingobert, you must gain this ability. The Spear Witch does not fear death because she has no attachments to this world. Only by giving her a reason not to die will she fear death.]


    [Thus, a n that benefits both sides begins to take shape in your mind.]


    [Age 21: The thief Phantom Thief has eluded capture in Mondstadt for five or six years. Many have tried to catch him, but eventually gave up, while only the Spear Witch continues to pursue this elusive criminal, causing much frustration among Mondstadt''s nobles.]


    [You''ve long noticed that when your brother Parsifal mentions the Spear Witch, his eyes do not reflect hatred or fear, but instead, an unintentional smile. Simrly, when the Spear Witch speaks of the Phantom Thief, her cold face reveals a trace of emotion.]


    [Their chase seems more like a lover''s game. And that blue crystal the Spear Witch keeps close¡ªit''s practically their token of love.]


    [Tonight, as usual, you arrange a heist for the Phantom Thief¡ªthis time, he''s to steal an antique statue purchased with ill-gotten wealth from a noble''s home. It should have been a simple task, but you sneak into the noble''s house as well, and while the Phantom Thief is picking the lock, you make a noise to wake the noble.]


    [The Phantom Thief''s cover is blown, and the enraged noble draws his sword to defend his property. The Phantom Thief, left with no choice, injures the noble and quickly escapes.]


    [This should have been a minor slip-up, but after the Phantom Thief leaves, you appear like a phantom behind the noble and plunge your sword into his heart.]


    [The next day, the news that "The Phantom Thief''s whereabouts were exposed, and in a rage, he killed a nobleman" spreads like wildfire throughout Mondstadt. In the past, the Phantom Thief''s actions were merely stealing from the rich to help the poor or punishing corrupt nobles, never taking a life. This was why the Mondstadt nobility had tolerated his existence.]


    [But now, things have escted beyond control. Mondstadt''s major nobles unite to carry out a full-scale investigation, and whoever the killer is will be executed by hanging immediately!]


    [Even your brother Parsifal believes that he unintentionally killed the noble. Faced with the imminent punishment, he finally realizes that his "thief game" had no meaning and that in the end, he changed nothing.]


    [As the mastermind behind the scenes, you persuade your brother to leave Mondstadt temporarily and hide in Liyue until the situation calms down. You also tell him that this might be the perfect opportunity to confess his feelings to the Spear Witch and take her away.]


    [Parsifal takes your advice immediately. He hides in a cabin outside the city and writes a letter to the Spear Witch, using his sword, "The Phantom Thief," as a token of his love, entrusting you to deliver it to her.]


    [That evening, you meet the Spear Witch at your usual training ground and hand her both the letter and the sword. After reading the letter, for the first time, you see her smile. You guess it must be filled with sweet words and hopes for the future.]


    [If you weren''t Eberhart, perhaps you would wish for these fated lovers to run away together. But s... you are. You know that now is the moment to close the trap!]


    [Without any warning, you challenge the Spear Witch to a final duel. Unlike before, this time, in her beautiful blue eyes, you see panic, hesitation... and fear.]


    [Yes, because now she has attachments, hopes for a future. For the first time, she fears death.]


    [Your skill may not surpass the Spear Witch''s, but your true weapon is your scheming. In the midst of the intense battle, you suddenly speak: "My dear master, there''s something I lied to you about. You''ll never be able to leave with the Phantom Thief because... I''ve already killed him!"]


    [At that moment, the Spear Witch''s pupils dte, and you take advantage of her distraction to pierce her chest with your spear.]


    [Blood stains her wless body, and for some reason, you suddenly feel a tightness in your chest¡ªsomething that wasn''t part of your n.]


    [In her rapidly fading eyes, a mark suddenly flies out and shoots into your left eye.]


    ---


    [Achievement Unlocked: Master yer]


    [Talent Reward Acquired: Mystic Eye of Death Perception]


    [Effect: You gain a chance to see the "Lines of Death" on your target. If you strike the Line of Death, you can kill the target instantly. The more they fear death, the higher the probability of a Line appearing. Conversely, the more fearless they are, the lower the probability.]


    [Description: Only those with no attachments can be fearless in the face of death.]


    [You feel a sharp pain in your eye. Although it quickly diminishes, the lingering ache brings tears to your eyes¡ªa small price, perhaps, for the ability to see the Lines of Death.]


    [The Spear Witch''s breathing grows weaker. After a year of being master and apprentice, you''ve developed some sense of affection for each other, but for the sake of your goal, she had to be sacrificed.]


    [You tear off the precious blue crystal ne from the Spear Witch and whisper in her ear: "Actually, the Phantom Thief isn''t dead, but... I will kill him soon. At least you two can reunite in another world."]


    [You bury the Spear Witch''s body and, with the bloodstained blue crystal in hand, return to Parsifal''s hiding ce. You n to show him the blue crystal and take the opportunity to kill him when he breaks down.]


    [Now that you have the ability to see the Lines of Death, you''re confident you can defeat your brother. However, when you open the door, the room is already empty. On the wall, Parsifal has left you a coded message¡ª''Pursuers were nearby, so I had to leave. Tell the Spear Witch I will wait for her in Liyue Harbor. Also, please look after Father. I look forward to seeing you again, my dear brother.'']


    [For some reason, seeing this message, you feel a sense of relief¡ªwhether it''s because you don''t have to fight your brother, or because you don''t have to kill him, you aren''t sure. Even you don''t fully understand your own feelings.]


    [All you know is that the three things Parsifal mentioned in his message will likely nevere to pass. The Spear Witch, who once troubled him so much, will never chase him again.]


    [Regarding the disappearance of the family''s eldest son, your father, Ingobert, seems unsurprised. When you tell him that Parsifal was the Phantom Thief, he calmly replies that he already knew.]


    [You''re not surprised either. Without that level of insight, Ingobert wouldn''t have be the head of the Lawrence family.]


    [Ingobert thought Parsifal''s actions were just a phase, so he didn''t intervene. After all, for a noble, this kind of hobby isn''t that outrageous. But since Parsifal made such a grave mistake, a temporary retreat might do him some good. Let him learn his lesson, and after a few years, when things calm down, he can return.]


    [So, Ingobert announces publicly that the Phantom Thief has been secretly executed, and that his eldest son Parsifal is conveniently studying abroad during this period.]


    [Parsifal was not wrong in his realization¡ªhis role as the thief "Phantom Thief" was nothing more than a buzzing mosquito, at most making the Mondstadt nobility wrinkle their noses in irritation. But when that mosquito angered them, it was met with an iron fist.]


    [Moreover, the reason Parsifal wasn''t caught all these years wasn''t just because of your cooperation as brothers, but also because your father had been secretly helping him. No matter how corrupt Mondstadt''s nobility may be, they''re not so ipetent as to fail at catching a petty thief.]


    [When you ask your father why he helped, he simply gives a faint smile and says, "He is my son after all... just like you."]


    [You know these are just empty words. Even if you''re both his sons, your standing ispletely different from Parsifal''s. Parsifal is the legitimate heir, and no matter how grave his mistakes, someone will always clean up after him. But you are nothing more than an illegitimate child, unworthy of a surname.]


    [Nevertheless, most of your n is already in ce. Your father, Ingobert, is thest obstacle you need to eliminate in order to take over the Lawrence family. You must kill him before Parsifal returns and im the title of family head.]


    [To aplish this final task, two conditions must be met: first, you must have the strength to defeat Ingobert, and second, you must disguise his death as an ident, ensuring that you are not exposed.]


    [Both conditions are difficult to fulfill. Not only is Ingobert far more powerful than Parsifal, but he also wields the power of a Vision, bearing the family''s "Crest of Frost." Defeating him won''t be easy.]


    [Age 22: Finally, you get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Dragonspine, long sealed by snow, has just opened its path for the first time. It is said that hidden within Dragonspine are the remnants of the lost nation of "Sal Vindagnyr," buried treasures, and secrets awaiting discovery.]


    [Your father, Ingobert, is a die-hard adventurer. Now over fifty, he wants to go on onest adventure before he grows too old¡ªthis time, to seek the hidden treasures of Dragonspine.]


    [Although Parsifal''s identity as the Phantom Thief hasn''t been exposed, his disappearance along with the Lawrence family''s eldest son has raised suspicion. Over the years, the Lawrence family''s influence has waned, and if Ingobert can make a significant discovery in Dragonspine, it might restore the family''s former glory.]


    [Many in the family oppose this venture, as it''s too risky for the head of the family to take such a personal gamble. But Ingobert insists on going. To ensure his safety, he hires mercenaries and prepares arge amount of supplies. Seeing how well-prepared he is, the opposition gradually subsides.]


    [Ingobert also brings along his most trusted servant, Luther, whose father was the previous butler of the Lawrence family, and who has always been fiercely loyal.]


    [Coincidentally, Luther has just gotten married. The invitation reveals that his young bride''s name is Prisci.]


    [At the lively wedding, your gaze casually sweeps over the newlyweds, and you''re surprised to recognize the bride.]


    [The young and beautiful woman in the wedding dress is none other than the first "sacrifice" you took on the Festival eight years ago.]


    [Over the years, you''ve met many girls. Although you were their first, you may not remember all of them.]


    [A man may forget many women he''s been with, but there are usually two he can''t forget. The first is the one he loved the most, and the second is his first.]


    [That night of the Festival when the girl called out for her brother¡ªshe wasn''t the most enchanting woman you''d ever been with, and she certainly wasn''t the one you loved the most. But despite the years that have passed, you recognized her at a nce.]


    [She looks much more mature than she did eight years ago, but there''s a bit less sparkle in her eyes.]


    [The newlyweds make their way around the tables offering drinks, and the table where Ingobert, the head of the family, sits naturally receives the most attention. Sitting at the same table, you are also offered a drink by the bride.]


    ["Come on! Let me introduce you!" A very drunk Luther pushes his wife toward you, as if she were nothing more than an object. "This is the second young master! Come on... give him a toast!"]


    [In that moment when your eyes meet Prisci''s, both of you show a sh of surprise, but she quickly regains herposure, drinks the wine in her cup in one gulp, and gives a slight bow: "So, you''re Master Eberhart? I''ve heard so much about you."]


    [You quietly drink your wine as well, though for some reason, the dandelion wine, aged for ten years, tastes slightly bitter as it goes down.]


    [As the wedding drags on into thete night, most of the guests have left. The groom, Luther, has already thrown up two or three times and ispletely unconscious. By some twist of fate, your father, Ingobert, asks you to help the bride carry Luther back to their room.]


    [You and Prisci carry Luther to their newlywed chamber. Looking at the bride''s flushed face, you suddenly think that perhaps she could be of use in your n. You decide...]


    [1. Leave immediately]


    [2. Ask for her help (This option requires the host to enter Immersive Mode for persuasion)]


    What? I have to do the persuasion myself, huh?


    Lucas chuckled and said, "Alright, Immersive Mode it is."


    [Sessfully entered Immersive Mode]


    Before Lucas stands a neatly arranged room. Today''s groom, Luther, is passed out drunk on the bed,pletely unaware.


    His bride, however, gazes at you with a subtle expression.


    ["So, your name is Prisci?" Lucas asked casually, sitting down and pouring himself a cup of tea. "How many years has it been since west met?"]


    ["Eight years," Prisci responded offhandedly. "I didn''t expect you to still remember me."]


    ["Men," Lucas nodded, "tend to remember their first times."]


    ["There''s no need to tter me," Prisci sighed softly. "I know you''ve ruined plenty of good girls over the years."]


    ["It was all consensual," Lucas said with a shameless grin. "But you¡ªwhy did you marry him?"]


    Even though Luther was a servant of the Lawrence family, it wasn''t exactly a prestigious position.


    ["Because of money," Prisci replied frankly, showing no intention of hiding it. "My brother owed him arge sum of money from a loan shark. The interest kept piling up, and we couldn''t repay it. So... I married him to clear the debt."]


    ["You really do have a brother?" Lucas was momentarily surprised. "I thought you said that was just a lie."]


    ["Never believe what a woman says," Prisci smiled. "Especially if she''s beautiful, Master Eberhart."]


    ["But..." Lucas muttered, "does he know about your past?"]


    Lucas was, of course, referring to her role as a sacrifice during the WindBlume Festival.


    ---


    Author''s Note: I''ll post 2 more extra chaps :3


    Cmon get us back to the rankings!!!

 Chapter 54: Villain Simulator, Ch 54

    <h4>Chapter 54: Viin Simtor, Ch 54</h4>


    Let''s put other things aside for now. Even though Mondstadt is a city with a rtively open-minded popce, they still ce considerable importance on the purity of a newlywed wife.


    "You can''t even remember the offerings from before, so how could these outsiders? Who would recall a mere ything of a noble from eight years ago?" Prisci''s face suddenly showed a mocking smile. "As for my secret, he''ll never know... because, well, he''s impotent."


    Hearing this, even Lucas couldn''t help but smile knowingly.


    He hadn''t expected that this Lawrence attendant, who usually seemed so impressive, would actually be a paper tiger.


    "All right," Prisci lowered her head and said, "You should leave now, Master Eberhart."


    "But..." Lucas suddenly stood up and grabbed Prisci''s wrist. "What if I don''t want to leave?"


    Prisci blushed, as if she wanted to pull away. "Please don''t do this, I... I''m already his wife."


    "But you don''t love him, do you?" Lucas''s mystic eye, which could see the lines of death, also seemed capable of seeing through lies. "A man who''s impotent, marries a beautiful wife, just to show off. Just now, when he took you to make a toast, he looked like he was parading a trophy."


    "So what?" Prisci gave a sorrowful smile. "Do I have any other choice?"


    Lucas opened his palm, revealing a delicate cufflink. Though the design was somewhat old, it was pristine, as if it had been polished frequently. "You''ve kept this cufflink all along, which means you haven''t forgotten about me, right?"


    "Yes, I can''t forget you. But what does that change?" Prisci did not deny her feelings. "Master Eberhart, are you saying you would marry me?"


    "What if I said yes?" Lucas pressed his hands on Prisci''s shoulders, his eyes deep and serious. "As long as you help me with one thing, I will marry you. As for everything else, I''ll take care of it. I''ll swear a deadly oath: if I break my word, may I forever suffer the torment of the fierce winds cutting my flesh."


    These were not empty words meant to deceive Prisci.


    If he could reallyplete his n and be the head of the family, he could marry anyone he wanted. It wouldn''t matter if she were amoner; even if he married a ve, no one would dare say a word.


    Perhaps it was a desire to defy the unfairness of fate, or maybe it was Lucas''s oath that moved her. After a brief hesitation, Prisci finally nodded slightly.


    "I... agree. What do you want me to do for you?"


    "Simple," Lucas brushed aside the long hair by Prisci''s ear and whispered, "In a little while, the head of the Lawrence family¡ªmy father¡ªwill embark on an expedition to Dragonspine. At that time, a small ''ident'' might ur, leading to the annihtion of the entire team, leaving only me alive."


    Though Prisci was just amoner, she was no fool. She knew of Eberhart''s status as an illegitimate child and was aware that his brother, Parsifal, was most likely the infamous fugitive known as The Phantom Thief.


    If an ident happened during the Dragonspine expedition and the Lawrence patriarch died, the right to inherit the family would fall solely to Eberhart, as he was Ingobert''s only remaining blood rtive.


    She hadn''t expected that Eberhart''s n would involve such a major event.


    "However, I''m not sure if this ident will be sessful," Lucas furrowed his brow slightly. "So, I''ve prepared an escape n. If anyone survives and returns to Mondstadt to expose what I''ve done, I need you to light a signal fire at a designated spot to inform me. I will flee to Fontaine. I''ll leave you some money, and whether you choose to elope with me or remain in Mondstadt will be your decision."


    "You... you''re telling me such an important thing..." Prisci''s expression seemed tense. "Aren''t you afraid that I might betray you?"


    "I am," Lucas said frankly. "Honestly, I don''t fully trust anyone. But the likelihood of you betraying me is the smallest. Time is short, and I have no choice but to rely on you."


    In fact, Lucas had another option: the loyal diator ve. But since the signal fire needed to be lit outside the city, sending a ve like the diator would easily arouse suspicion.


    Seeing Prisci''s hesitation, Lucas continued, "Don''t feel guilty. Even if you don''t agree to help, I''ll still proceed with my n. You''d merely be passing along a message for me. This has nothing to do with you."


    "I... I understand," Prisci nodded. "If you seed, I''ll wait for you in the city. If you fail... I''ll follow you to the ends of the earth."


    "Thank you for your trust. But..." Lucas''s face suddenly revealed a meaningful smile. "I still hope you can give me a pledge of loyalty."


    "A pledge of loyalty?" Prisci seemed momentarily confused. "What is that?"


    Lucas moved closer and whispered, "Madam, if I have something to hold over you, wouldn''t that ensure your loyalty?"


    "What?" Prisci immediately understood Lucas''s implication, her face flushing. "Here? But... Luther, he..."


    Doing something like this on the night of her wedding seemed, to say the least, a bit over the line.


    "It doesn''t matter," Lucas dismissed her concern without hesitation. "I just want to draw a little green hat on his face."


    Prisci was silent. She knew she had already boarded a ship from which there was no turning back.


    With a sweep of his arm, Lucas cleared the clutter from the table. He made sure to remain as quiet as possible¡ªhisst act of mercy toward Luther.


    As for Luther, who still slept soundly in his drunken stupor, in some sense, he truly had be a loser.


    ...


    [Entering Text Mode]


    [After preparing everything, you make a request to your father, Ingobert, hoping to apany him on the Dragonspine expedition.]


    [However, Ingobert surprisingly refuses, citing that while the expedition is well-prepared, there are still dangers. He believes you are too young to take such a risk.]


    [But how could you give up this only chance? After much pleading, Ingobert finally agrees to take you along, but only if you stay by his side at all times.]


    [You are naturally overjoyed by this, as it gives you more opportunities to act.]


    [Even before the team set off, you had sent someone to Dragonspine to gather intelligence. You created a map, marking all the potential "ident" sites, the timing of each urrence, as well as your escape route and supply points after the assassination.]


    [Half a monthter, everything was ready. The Lawrence Expedition officially set out. The teamprised eighty people, including logistics,bat, and medical personnel¡ªa well-prepared force, even thergest to ever explore Dragonspine.]


    [Finally, you arrived at Dragonspine. Along the way, you kept enticing Ingobert with tales of the ''ancient kingdom sealed in ice'' and the ''magic of objects fallen from the heavens.'' This only heightened Ingobert''s excitement, so much so that he didn''t allow the team to rest and reorganize at the foot of the mountain, leading them straight into the snowy peaks.]


    [For the first two days, the expedition proceeded smoothly. Apart from a few snow-dwelling monsters, you encountered no significant danger. But on the third day, disaster struck. The group inadvertently entered the territory of a giant boar king, and the beast relentlessly pursued you. Although you narrowly escaped, over ten lives were lost.]


    [All of this was part of your n. You had deliberately led the group into the boar king''s domain. Every event along this journey had been rehearsed in your mind countless times. You wouldn''t make mistakes... you couldn''t.]


    [In the days that followed, the team was beset by more disasters:ndslides, avnches, extreme cold, and cracks suddenly appearing on the surface of frozenkes. These relentless dangers chipped away at the once well-prepared expedition team.]


    [Finally, when less than twenty people remained, someone suggested returning. Even Ingobert himself began to hesitate about continuing the journey.]


    [The mountain clearly held many secrets, and the team had made some valuable discoveries along the way, but no one knew what other dangersy ahead.]


    [At that moment, you stepped forward with a shocking revtion: there might be a traitor among the team. You pointed out that the strange string of disasters was too coincidental, and that even if the team returned, as long as the traitor remained, no one would make it out of the mountain alive.]


    [Your "discovery" threw the remaining survivors into a panic. You then suggested a solution: starting now, every noon and midnight, the team would hold a vote to select the person they believed to be the traitor. And then... that person would be executed.]


    [You had already predicted the two possible oues: first, those dissatisfied would rebel, giving you a legitimate excuse to eliminate some of them; second, if they follow your suggestion, you could slowly pick them off one by one.]


    [Ingobert tacitly agreed to your proposal, but everyone remained hesitant. No one immediately stepped forward in agreement. You maintained a serious expression and said, "How about this: let''s conduct an anonymous vote to decide if we should use this method to identify the traitor."]


    [You tore pieces of paper from the adventure log and handed them out. Soon, everyone had cast their votes. After tallying them, you announced, "The votes are in. Earlier, I lied to all of you. In fact, I marked every piece of paper, so I know exactly who voted for what. Two of you voted against my n. Whether you''re the traitor or not, it shows you''re hiding something!"]


    [As soon as you said this, everyone''s faces showed surprise. Two people in particr started shaking visibly. Without hesitation, you drew your sword and plunged it into one of their chests. The other dropped to their knees, begging, "It wasn''t me! Don''t kill me!" But you coldly pushed your sword into his heart as well.]


    [Your actions brought aplex expression to your father''s face. He muttered, "Your brother would never do such a thing."]


    [You said nothing, but a cold smile crept onto your face¡ªyes, your father''s beloved child, the kind Parsifal, would never do something like this.]


    [In truth, you hadn''t marked the votes at all, and far more than two people had voted against your n. You did this just to start reducing the number of survivors. While you were confident in your abilities, to ensure your n''s sess, you decided to continue being cautious.]


    [You had never forgotten your mother''s words... endure, always endure!]


    [The next day, one of your teammates disappeared. Some thought he had fled due to the pressure, so the group pressed on. But soon, you stumbled upon his disemboweled corpse. In the snow before him, his intestines had been arranged to spell out four words: "Leave no one alive."]


    [Two more team members immediately broke down, screaming as they fled the group. You didn''t stop them; without supplies, they wouldn''t survive the snow mountain.]


    [This incident left the group in even greater fear. The ability to silently kill a member and move their body such a distance made them question whether the killer was truly a traitor¡ªor perhaps a ghost haunting the snow mountain.]


    [Of course, an ordinary person couldn''t manage such a feat¡ªbut you could. Thanks to your mastery of the fire element, you had much greater resistance to the freezing cold than the others.]


    [At noon, the group held the first vote. The person chosen was a burly man. No one objected to the result; after all, everyone knew they weren''t the traitor, so as long as they weren''t the one chosen, it was likely the right choice.]


    [The burly man naturally didn''t want to die. Knowing he wasn''t your match, he tried to flee. Just as before, you didn''t chase after him¡ªthe snow mountain would swallow him for you.]


    [But before he could run 100 meters, an icy arrow pierced through his back. The one who fired it was none other than your father, Ingobert.]


    [You had rarely seen him fight, but now it was clear: he had never neglected his training. His attack wasn''t so much a pursuit of the "traitor" as it was a demonstration of power.]


    [You continued onward, but the atmosphere among the group grew increasingly tense. No one trusted each other, and everyone seemed like they could be the traitor. This... was exactly the oue you wanted.]


    [Unexpectedly, the expedition made some progress. You discovered a building buried beneath the snow. The grand circr door was adorned with intricate silver sculptures, suggesting that priceless treasuresy within.]


    [You entered the structure and after some searching, found an actual treasure¡ªa chest piled high with "Starsilver," a precious metal from legends. It was said that weapons forged from Starsilver were as powerful as divine artifacts. The value of Starsilver exceeded that of gold by far.]


    [However, the joy of discovery didn''tst long. The fourth vote was about to begin.]


    [Just as you expected, the chosen individual finally snapped. Drawing his weapon, he roared, "I''m not a traitor! Even if there is one, isn''t it for the sake of wealth? Let''s just kill these two nobles and split the treasure ourselves!"]


    [His words echoed the thoughts of many. They had been voting to survive, but who could say they wouldn''t be next? Some even suspected that this rebel was the true traitor¡ªbut did it matter? In the face of such riches, nothing else seemed important anymore.]


    [The long-term pressure and mistrust had driven them to madness. Asmoners, they first turned their weapons toward you and your father, Ingobert, whose strength they all feared.]


    [This was exactly what you had been hoping for. You needed a riot. Pure fear of death might not have been enough, but once greed was added to the mix, these fools would willingly risk their lives. As for the Starsilver? It was merely bait you had nted beforehand. Only the topyer was real¡ªthe rest was nothing but tin.]


    [You did not expect them to kill Ingobert, but if they could at least injure him, that would be beneficial to you.]


    [The survivors were no weaklings. Two of them even possessed Visions. The battle was fierce. You took a sh to the arm, and Luther''s leg was shattered.]


    [Ingobert, though uninjured, was no longer a young man and was now slightly unable to breathe from the exertion.]


    [At that moment, you quietly stepped on a hidden stone tile. With a thunderous crash, the wall near the entrance copsed, sealing the exit with massive stone blocks.]


    [Luther gasped in shock, but your father, Ingobert, remained calm. He nced at the barely hidden excitement in your eyes and smiled. "Luther, check the room next door for an exit. I have something I want to discuss with Eberhart alone."]


    [Though confused, Luther obeyed his master''smand without hesitation. He wanted to survive¡ªhis young wife was waiting for him at home. He had no intention of bing a corpse consumed by the snow.] (pfft)


    [Entering forced immersion mode]


    Cold air seeped into Lucas''s clothes, making him shiver.


    Although the simtor reduced pain, the other sensations were extremely realistic. Sometimes, Lucas wondered if he was really ying a "full-body game" or if he had been transported to another world.


    Standing before him was a man in his fifties. Despite the streaks of gray in his hair, his body still appeared robust. The cold in the snow-covered chamber didn''t seem to affect him much.


    This was the man Lucas''s character, Eberhart, called father¡ªIngobert.


    "You''ve done well so far," Ingobert smiled faintly, his stern face softening. "As expected of my son."


    Lucas''s heart tightened, but he maintained hisposure. "I don''t understand what you mean."


    "A father knows his son best. There''s no need for pretense with me," Ingobert said calmly. "Ever since we entered Dragonspine, I''ve sensed something unusual. All of this... was orchestrated by you, wasn''t it?"


    Ingobert, as the head of the Lawrence family, was no fool. Unlike the mercenaries on the verge of madness, he had remained elegant andposed throughout the journey.


    "Hahaha..."


    Lucas, whose ns had been exposed, let out a cold chuckle. "Since you already know, there''s no point in keeping up the act. Yes, this was all my n."


    Lucas raised his head. This might be the first time "Eberhart" had ever shown such arrogance in front of his father.


    "I knew it," Ingobert mused. "You''re nothing like Parsifal."


    "Stop mentioning him!" Lucas clenched his fists. "I know I''ve never measured up to him in your eyes."


    "You''re wrong. You''re far more like a Lawrence than he is," Ingobert shook his head. "Your ruthlessness, your patience, your deceit¡ªthey all prove that."


    "So what?" Lucas sneered. "Even if that''s true, my brother was still your chosen heir, while I wasn''t even given the family name."


    "Is that why you drove Parsifal away with your schemes? And now, here on Dragonspine, you n to murder your father..." Ingobert remained calm. "All for the title of family head?"


    "No, it''s more than that..." Lucas''s eyes burned with hatred. "I''m also avenging my mother!"


    "I never intended for your mother to die," Ingobert spread his hands. "You know she took her own life."


    "She was driven to it by you!" Lucas snarled through gritted teeth. "Why did you force me to choose between my mother and Lawrence?"


    "That was just a test to see if you have enough ruthlessness," Ingobert replied. "Parsifal is a good child, but he cannot be a good lord. I realized this when he was very young. So, I found my other heir, which is you. Gradually, I discovered that you are simply my best candidate for inheritance..."


    "Everything you are saying is nothing but a lie to save your own life," Lucas pulled out a short stick from his waist, pressed a mechanism, and the stick instantly extended into a spear. "If you really wanted me to inherit your position, why I still don''t have the surname Lawrence?"


    Ingobert didn''t answer that question but looked at the spear in Lucas''s hand, contemting. "You''ve indeed been practicing with that lowly weapon. I thought you practiced spear techniques to defeat your brother. But now it seems that I was your real target?"


    "Prepare to die..." The spear in Lucas''s hand burst forth like a dragon breaking through the sea. "My dear father!"


    Since this was in a simtor, Lucas couldn''t use the abilities he gained in reality.


    Now, all he could rely on was his continually honed spear technique, the mystic eye that allowed him to see the "Death Lines" obtained from the Spear Witch, and the power of fire elements.


    Of course, he also had the attribute boosts gained over the years from the "First ss of Red Wine."


    However, Lucas still underestimated Ingobert''s strength. He quickly drew a longsword from his waist and deftly parried his opponent''s attack.


    Swordsmanship had once been a required skill for nobles, as it cultivated grace and intelligence among the aristocracy.


    In contrast, the spear originated from sharpened wooden sticks and hay forks, weapons used by rebels, and was despised by the nobility.


    But because of this, although nobles were skilled in swordsmanship, they had little experience dealing with spear techniques. This was also why Eberhart specifically learned spear techniques¡ªeven though it was a weapon looked down upon by the nobility.


    But does that matter?


    -----


    Author''s Note: REVENGEEEE

 Chapter 55: Villain Simulator, Ch 55

    <h4>Chapter 55: Viin Simtor, Ch 55</h4>


    To achieve his goals, Eberhart was willing to sacrifice everything.


    Whether it was killing his mentor, driving away his beloved brother, learning a dishonorable skill like spear-fighting... or even killing his own father.


    After dozens of exchanges, Ingobert had been forced into a defensive retreat by Lucas. The earlier battle had already exhausted much of Ingobert''s stamina, and now, under the relentless barrage of spear strikes, he was clearly struggling.


    Yet Ingobert showed no fear or hesitation. Instead, he seemed excited. "Come on, defeat me, and the position of the head of the Lawrence family will be yours!"


    Strangely, though Lucas could see Ingobert''s fatigue in his movements, his mystic eye did not reveal any death lines on Ingobert''s body.


    Could it be that he was not afraid of death?


    With a sudden "ng," shards of ice formed along Ingobert''s sword and shot toward Lucas. He barely dodged the attack, but two of the ice shards grazed his shoulder.


    The blood froze instantly due to the cold, yet strangely, Lucas felt not a chill but a faint warmth from the wound.


    "Sorry, I got a little too excited and identally used the power of my Vision," Ingobert chuckled softly. "After all, this is just a spar between father and son, not a battle to the death."


    "No..."


    Suddenly, mes erupted from Lucas''s body. "This battle will decide both victory and life!"


    Typically, when Lucas entered immersion mode, he would emotionally align with the character he was ying.


    It was like how intense gamey could stir excitement, or how a touching movie could bring tears.


    But while channeling Eberhart''s emotions, Lucas realized something surprising: he didn''t feel any deep hatred for his father, Ingobert.


    His desire to be the head of the Lawrence family wasn''t about revenge or wealth. It was... about seeking recognition.


    More than a decade of meticulous nning, advancing step by step.


    All for this moment.


    Do you see it now, Father? The illegitimate son you''ve always looked down on is about to rece you!


    The mes surrounding Lucas''s body finally elicited a look of surprise from Ingobert.


    But soon, that surprise turned into excitement.


    "So, you too are chosen by the gods!" Ingobert recognized the elemental power surging from Lucas and nodded approvingly. "Well done, Eberhart! Truly excellent!"


    On one side was the icy symbol of noble authority. On the other, the rebellious mes of resistance. The sh between them erupted into a battle of equals.


    They had never had a normal father-son conversation, but this fight seemed to serve as a long-overdue exchange between them.


    "Hey, is this the spear technique you worked so hard to learn? It''s too weak!"


    "Then how about this move, old man!"


    "That spear tip is so thin¡ªcan it even hurt anyone?"


    "Turn your back on me, and I''ll use it to stab right through your old ass!"


    "Hahaha... such vulgarnguage!"


    "Well, I am a lowly bastard child, after all!"


    ...


    Before he knew it, a smile crept across Lucas''s face.


    It wasn''t the smile of revenge or triumph in iming the Lawrence family''s leadership. Rather, it was a smile of relief.


    However, in that moment, Lucas''s pupils suddenly dted. He saw the death line appear on Ingobert''s body!


    His spear, sharp as a needle, seemed drawn toward that rift, as if by an invisible force, and instinctively, he thrust it toward the target.


    By the time Lucas realized what had happened, the needle-sharp tip of his spear had already pierced Ingobert''s chest, lifting his body high into the air.


    "Anyone struck on the death line will not survive. Be very careful before making your move."


    These were the words the Spear Witch had once said to Lucas. The "Mystic Eyes of Death Perception" was a cursed ability¡ªonce it locked onto death, there was no turning back.


    Blood flowed down the spear, bringing warmth to Lucas''s nearly frozen fingers.


    "Eberhart..." Ingobert gasped his final words. "It doesn''t mean bastard child..."


    Lucas already knew this. As part of his efforts to expand his knowledge, Eberhart had never stopped studying, and ancient Mondstadtnguage was part of that.


    Though "Eberhart" was often used as a mocking term for "illegitimate child," its original meaning was "unexpected gift."


    Looking at Ingobert''s lifeless body, Lucas didn''t feel much joy. Instead, a faint emptiness settled in.


    Ingobert had always been an immovable mountain in Eberhart''s life. Now, the mountain had crumbled into dust.


    After years of nning, the goal had been achieved. But what next?


    Be the head of the Lawrence family and live like the other foolish nobles, draining the lifeblood ofmoners while indulging in a life of luxury... is that really what I want?


    Yes, it is.


    A slight smirk appeared at the corner of Lucas''s¡ªor rather, Eberhart''s¡ªmouth.


    Why overthink it?


    The deed was done. There was no need for second thoughts. Regret... was the indulgence of the weak.


    Besides, there was still much to do to be the head of the Lawrence family. Now wasn''t the time for sentimentality.


    "Master... Master Ingobert!"


    At that moment, a startled voice snapped Lucas out of his reverie. It was Luther, who had returned after searching for a way out. He stared at the scene in shock. "What... what have you done?"


    "As you can see," Lucas said calmly, "I killed him."


    "Why... why did you do this?" Luther still couldn''t grasp the situation.


    "Isn''t it obvious? To be the next head of the Lawrence family," Lucas sneered. "Do you n to avenge your former master, or will you serve your new one?"


    "I..." Luther immediately fell to his knees. "I will serve the rightful head of the Lawrence family!"


    "Smart choice," Lucas nodded. "I remember your new wife is quite beautiful. With a wife that lovely, I wouldn''t want to die either."


    "Are you... talking about Prisci?" Luther fawned. "Yes, she''s very beautiful. In fact, she''s still untouched. If Master Eberhart¡ªno, Lord Eberhart desires, I can arrange for her to serve you for a night, or even longer!"


    Lucas''s suspicion had been correct. To Luther, Prisci was nothing more than a trophy, even a bargaining chip.


    "No need to be so courteous," Lucas whispered in Luther''s ear. "I''ve already sampled her. On your wedding night, no less."


    "What?"


    Before Luther could react, a searing pain shot through his back, piercing through to his abdomen.


    Lucas had already driven his sword down through Luther''s back.


    "You were a good dog," Lucas said, wiping his hands. "But sadly, dogs don''t speak. And you do."


    For this n to seed perfectly, the most important thing was leaving no witnesses. Even Prisci''s role in lighting the signal fire was to ensure that no survivors returned to Mondstadt to expose him.


    Dragging his injured body, Lucas walked slowly to a wall, pressing a hidden lever. With a rumble, a secret door opened.


    He knew that everything that happened here would be buried by the snow.


    As the door closed behind him, Lucas nced at the stiffening corpses onest time, muttering to himself:


    "Goodbye, my dear, hated father."


    [Sessfully entered text mode]


    [Although you seeded in killing your father, you yourself were gravely injured in the fight. The wounds, especially the ones from the ice des, throbbed with a searing pain... indeed, Ingobert''s ice element had the power to burn like fire.]


    [Most of your supplies were left behind in the sealed chamber, and you no longer had the strength to carry them. However, you had already made meticulous ns, cing supply caches along your escape route. Now, you could only hope that the food and water hadn''t been dug up by passing boars.]


    [Your luck held. Out of the twenty supply caches you had ced, thirteen remained intact. Despite nearly copsing from exhaustion several times during your escape, it was as though an invisible force carried your body through the devouring wilderness of the snow mountain.]


    [After leaving the mountain, you didn''t return to Mondstadt immediately. Instead, you waited at a location outside the city. One day passed, then five, then ten¡ªPrisci never lit the signal fire, meaning that no possible survivors had made it back to the city to expose you.]


    [Finally, with your wounds partially healed, you returned to the Lawrence family estate. Ironically, when you arrived, your family was holding a funeral. Even more ironically, it was a funeral for Ingobert¡ªbut only his portrait was being honored... you weren''t even considered worthy of beingmemorated.]


    [Nevertheless, your return stirred a great deal of excitement. Before the family elders, you put on an impressive performance, weaving a lie about what had happened in the snow mountains¡ª]


    [On your journey, many members of the group had perished in various disasters. After finally finding the treasure, the remaining mercenaries turned on you, wanting to kill you and take the treasure for themselves. Despite your best efforts, the family head, Ingobert, and the servant, Luther, died with the attackers. You were the sole survivor, barely escaping with your life.]


    [The death of the family head was a serious matter, but even more important was that the Lawrence family could not be without a leader. Although the next head should have been your elder brother, Parsifal, everyone knew that he had fled in disgrace and could not possibly inherit the family''s legacy.]


    [You had already won over certain factions within the family. They stood up now, arguing that you, as the only surviving bloodline of the former family head, should inherit the position. Others opposed, stating that you, a mere illegitimate child without the Lawrence name, had no right to im the title.]


    [As the family debated fiercely, a woman timidly entered the room, informing everyone that her husband, Luther, had told her before leaving that Ingobert had nned to officially grant Eberhart the Lawrence name after the snow mountain expedition. She suggested that evidence of this could be found in Ingobert''s room.]


    [That woman was none other than Prisci, dressed in mourning attire, her face filled with grief. Naturally, no one doubted her words.]


    [You all entered Ingobert''s room, and after some searching, found a handwritten letter beneath a book. The contents were simple: "At the conclusion of this snow mountain expedition, I will officially grant my second son, Eberhart, the family name of Lawrence, thereby confirming his status as the legitimate heir. Should I meet an untimely end, this decision shall remain in effect. Anyone who covets the family head position and disrupts the rightful bloodline shall be executed without mercy."]


    [The handwriting and seal were undoubtedly Ingobert''s. Although many still had reservations about you bing the family head, the letter forced them into silence.]


    [A nation cannot go without a king, and a family cannot go without a leader. After Ingobert''s funeral, you were formally named the head of the Lawrence family and took control of the Crest of Frost.]


    [Atst, you had achieved your goal. From a premature child born in a stable, you had risen to be the leader of the most powerful noble family in Mondstadt. Yet, oddly enough, you didn''t feel the excitement you should have.]


    [Those who once looked down on you, those who mocked you, now bowed at your feet. But there was no one left with whom you could share this triumph¡ªyour mother, your mentor, your brother... even your father had be stepping stones on your path to sess.]


    [A monthter, you announced that, in honor of Luther, the loyal servant who had died protecting the family head during the snow mountain rebellion, you would marry his widow, Prisci.]


    Seeing this sentence, Lucas couldn''t help butugh.


    Cao Cao''s famous line, "I''ll take care of your wife and child, don''t worry," had taken on a new meaning in his case.


    [The head of the Lawrence family marrying amoner, and a widow at that, naturally met with strong opposition. But you stood firm, and the wedding was held with great fanfare.]


    [The wedding was like a p in the face to the nobles who had opposed you. Of course, this was merely one of the many "outrageous" acts you wouldmit after bing the head of the Lawrence family.]


    "Enter immersive mode," Lucas muttered as a thought urred to him.


    [Ah, because it''s your wedding night, right?]


    "No," Lucas replied calmly, "I just want to confirm something."


    [Sessfully entered immersive mode]


    Once again, you found yourself with Prisci, just like thest time, in a wedding chamber.


    However, this time, it wasn''t someone else''s wedding night¡ªit was yours.


    Truth be told, Lucas didn''t have deep feelings for Prisci. At most, he felt a certain fondness. The primary reason he married her was simply to fulfill a promise he had made.


    After all, noble marriages were usually just for show. Most noble couples led separate lives after marriage, which wasmon knowledge.


    Unlike thest wedding, though, Prisci''s smile now was genuine as she sat on the bed.


    "What''s wrong?" Prisci asked, noticing her husband''s odd expression. "Is something on your mind?"


    "Prisci, there''s something I''ve always wanted to ask you," Lucas hesitated for a moment before speaking. "That letter we found in Ingobert''s room... did you forge it?"


    Back in the snow mountain, Ingobert had told Eberhart that he had decided to make him the heir. However, Lucas had assumed at the time that his father had said it merely to save his own life.


    That''s why he was asking now. He desperately hoped the letter had been forged.


    Otherwise, everything he had done would have been meaningless.


    "How could that be?" Prisci shook her head and smiled. "Do you think a poormoner like me would even know how to read or write, let alone forge Ingobert''s handwriting? ...Hey, why are you..."


    "It''s nothing," Lucas said as he wiped away a tear from his eye and smiled. "I''m just... really happy."


    "Really?" Prisci blushed. "To be honest, I never thought you''d actually marry me, but I couldn''t help but believe in you."


    "Of course, I''d marry you," Lucas said as he picked her up. "After all, the Lawrence bloodline needs to continue."


    Prisci''s face glowed with happiness.


    Seeing her smile brought Lucas a deep sense offort.


    He had deceived his brother, killed his mentor, murdered his father, and ughtered countless people in the snow mountain. The Eberhart he had be was, without a doubt, a true viin.


    But now, Eberhart''s "revenge" was over, and the life of the head of the Lawrence family had only just begun.


    [Re-entering text mode]


    ----


    Author''s Note: Its just the starting.....


    Soon my fav dragon waifu and also e :D


    Cmonn vote powahhstones if you want faster releases!!!

 Chapter 56: Villain Simulator, Ch 56

    <h4>Chapter 56: Viin Simtor, Ch 56</h4>


    [Age 23: Although you''ve assumed the position of the head of the Lawrence family, it isn''t entirely secure. After all, you''re still too young. Yet, with your swift and decisive actions, you silenced rumors and removed all obstacles.]


    [As for Mondstadt''s current state, you have no intention of changing anything. Like the previous Lawrence heads, you are cunning and greedy. You thrive in the aristocratic circle, navigating it with grace, enjoying a life of luxury andfort.]


    Reading these words, Lucas couldn''t help but feel a bit uneasy.


    It''s worth noting that in the simtor, you don''t have the memories of your true self, so naturally, Eberhart is unaware that Mondstadt''s decaying aristocratic ss is like a candle flickering in the wind.


    In the near future, Vennessa, the "Lionfang Knight," will lead a revolution to overthrow Mondstadt''s rule, with the Lawrence family being the first to fall.


    However, the plot in the simtor doesn''t exactly mirror reality, and how things will unfold remains uncertain.


    [Age 24: Of course, you''re not a brainless leader. You often conceal your identity, mingling among themon folk of Mondstadt to understand their living conditions and... their attitudes toward the nobility.]


    [You don''t expect themoners to love or respect the aristocracy, but at the very least, you cannot allow the spark of rebellion to ignite. Interestingly, despite being hidden for years, you can still hear tales from bards about the Phantom Thief.]


    [Some say he was secretly executed by the aristocracy; others insist he escaped Mondstadt long ago. There are even rumors that his true identity is a certain bored noble. ]


    [Whenever you hear these tales, you reward the bard with a few Mora, as if these far-fetched stories remind you of your brother. Over the years, you''ve sent spies to track him down, but to no avail. Perhaps he has fled to the ends of the earth, or maybe he''s already dead in some forgotten ce.]


    [He no longer poses a threat to you, and your position as head of the Lawrence family is secure. But you know that if you ever find a clue to his whereabouts, you will ruthlessly eliminate him. You can''t allow any unforeseen threats to arise.]


    [Age 25: Your wife, Prisci, is finally pregnant with your first child. This is, naturally, a cause for great celebration. Watching her belly swell, you feel the joy and excitement of bing a father.]


    [Like your mother, Prisci is amoner. But you''ve made up your mind¡ªyou will never be a father like Ingobert.]


    [Perhaps in your happiness, on one particr day, you did something out of the ordinary. Disguised as amoner, you visited your favorite tavern and, for once, treated all the patrons to a drink.]


    [The tavern was instantly filled with joy. A young bard even offered to sing a song for free, to which you dly agreed. But the lyrics of his song sent a chill down your spine.]


    ["The traitor who killed his brother and father returns home, seated proudly upon the throne. But fate has already begun to stir: His wife will die in childbirth, his throne will be overthrown by a red-haired warrior, and he will meet the same fate as his father..."]


    [You interrupted the bard, grabbing him by the cor and demanding to know why he was cursing you. But he simply shook his head and said, "These are the fates written in the stars. None of us can change them."]


    [You tried to catch him for further questioning, but he vanished like the wind. Yet the three prophecies in his song remained deeply etched in your mind. You consoled yourself, thinking it was just a cruel joke or a drunken hallucination.]


    [Age 26: Unfortunately, your worst fears came true. Even though you had already summoned the best doctors in all of Mondstadt, your wife died of excessive bleeding after giving birth to a son. As shey dying, she held your hand and gave her final words: "Take care of our child."]


    [Her death left you devastated, but it also filled you with dread. Since the first prophecy hade true, could the next two also unfold in time?]


    [No, you''ve fought against fate since birth, and you won''t be defeated so easily by some supposed destiny. Now that you know of the prophecies, you''ll break them, no matter what.]


    [The second prophecy foretells that you will be overthrown by a red-haired warrior. So, you decide to implement sweeping reforms to ensure that all of Mondstadt is under your control, so no one would dare rise against you.]


    [Of course, that''s not enough. You also issue an order to register and investigate every red-haired person in Mondstadt.]


    [The third prophecy leaves you somewhat hesitant, because only you know your father''s fate¡ªhe was killed by his own son.]


    [As you look at your infant son, your feelings are conflicted. Could it be true? Will you really die by his hand, just as the prophecy says?]


    [You shake off the thought. After all, you promised Prisci you would take care of him. First, you decide to give him a name...]


    [1. Kratos]


    [2. Arthas]


    [3. Tyrion]


    Looking at these names, Lucas fell into silence.


    "Good grief, these choices are just screaming bad luck!"


    The god of war who killed his father Zeus.


    The foolish prince who slew his father with a sword of filial piety.


    And the little imp who shot his father dead in a toilet with a crossbow.


    No matter which one you pick, it seems like a dangerous choice!


    "Are you messing with me, system?" Lucas muttered helplessly. "Is there really no other option besides these three?"


    [You can also choose a random name, but if it''s weird, the system holds no responsibility.]


    "Random! Random!" Lucas quickly replied.


    Even if it turned out to be something like "Nutmeg" or "Cornstarch" it would still be better than these three!


    [You chose a random name: Kreuzlied.]


    Kreuzlied?


    Lucas found the name vaguely familiar, as if he had heard it somewhere before, but couldn''t quite recall.


    After all, he wasn''t the type of gamer who obsessively studied every detail. It wasn''t possible to remember everything perfectly.


    [You named your son "Kreuzlied Lawrence," and you''ve resolved to raise him as an excellent heir.]


    [Age 27: To prevent the aristocratic ss, represented by the Lawrence family, from being overthrown, you began a series of reforms to reduce tensions between nobles andmoners.]


    [These reforms inevitably affected the interests and power of the nobility, but as the head of the Lawrence family, you firmly implemented your decisions.]


    [However, even as the aristocracypromised, there were two things they refused to yield on. First, the diatorial arena must remain open, and very must not be abolished. Second, the tradition of the WindBlume Festival sacrifices must be upheld.]


    [The reason was simple¡ªboth practices symbolize the "privileges" of Mondstadt''s nobility. The aristocrats were willing to make small concessions, but they demanded their high status remain untouchable.]


    [You understood that reform wasn''t something that could be aplished overnight, and you couldn''t afford to openly sh with the noble ss. So, you preserved the institution of very and the traditions of the WindBlume Festival.]


    [Naturally, you no longer took part in the WindBlume Festival to receive the "sacrificial feather" In the past, you epted the feathersrgely to gain the power from the "First Cup of Red Wine," but now, you no longer needed that strength.]


    [Age 28: Your son Kreuzlied is in excellent health.]


    [Age 29: Kreuzliede shows a natural talent and interest in music and swordsmanship, which delights you.]


    [Age 30: After years of eliminating rivals, the Lawrence family''s position in Mondstadt is more secure than ever. Although you''re only the head of the Lawrence family, many secretly believe you''re the true "king" of Mondstadt.]


    [Of course, you''re not foolish enough to dere yourself king. Mondstadt''sst "king" was branded a tyrant and overthrown by his people.]


    [Age 31: Thanks to your continued reforms, Mondstadt''s national strength is increasing, and the standard of living for its citizens is gradually improving.]


    [Age 32: Despite granting more power to themoners, they still aren''t satisfied, especially when ites to the issues of very and the WindBlume Festival traditions.]


    [Age 33: Extremist groups formed among the popce, organizing into resistance movements. They even kidnapped your son Kreuzlied as a bargaining chip.]


    [Your son is your greatest weakness. You went alone to negotiate with the rebels. They didn''t think much of a nobleing to them alone, and some even saw it as an opportunity to kill you, the "scourge" of Mondstadt.]


    [However, underestimating you was their fatal mistake. Grabbing a nearby stick, you quickly sharpened one end. Despite not having fought in years, your skills hadn''t dulled at all.]


    [And the rebels'' resolve wasn''t as strong as you thought. Through your mystic eyes, you could clearly see the "death lines" on their bodies.]


    [In front of your son, you killed every rebel with a single blow, the sharpened stick bing a reaper''s scythe, mercilessly harvesting their fragile lives.]


    [Although Kreuzlied was rescued, he seemed deeply traumatized. To avoid such an incident from happening again, and to prevent the prophecy froming true, you disguised your son''s identity and sent him to study in Sumeru. You nned to bring him back once Mondstadt was fully secured.]


    [Age 34: The kidnapping left asting impact. You began to rule with an iron fist, hunting down anyone who opposed you. This included intense interrogations and torture, especially targeting red-haired individuals, whom you gave special "attention."]


    [Age 35: The dragon Ursa, which once attacked Mondstadt, returned. Despite the soldiers'' best efforts, they barely managed to repel it, but not before the dragon caused immense destruction, killing hundreds.]


    [Age 36: Ursa''s attacks became more frequent, and to protect Mondstadt, you began training the army to prepare for an all-out campaign against the dragon.]


    [Age 37: The heavy military expenses forced you to raise taxes. While this was a minor inconvenience for the nobility, it became a significant burden on themoners.]


    [Age 38: You personally led the army to battle Ursa, but to your despair, the troops you trained with so much effort crumbled before the dragon''s might. Even your spear skills were useless against the massive beast.]


    [The campaign ended in disaster, with fewer than one-tenth of the troops returning. The citizens'' outcry against you surged like a flood.]


    [Age 39: You found yourself lost in thought. Everything you had done¡ªwasn''t it to protect this city and its people? Both the nobles and themoners. You nearly died leading the army yourself, so why were you met with such condemnation?]


    [Have I truly made a mistake?]


    [No! The only mistake, the sole error, was my own weakness. If I were strong enough, if I could defeat the dragon Ursa, none of this would have happened. That''s right, power! I need more power!]


    [But how can I quickly obtain such immense power?]


    [Suddenly, you nce at the portrait of your deceased wife, Prisci, hanging on the wall. Memories flood back to your first encounter and... the first sip of "The First Cup of Red Wine" you drank from her, which granted you a power that felt like a divine gift.]


    [Yes, this is the only way to increase your strength in a short time. You must destroy the dragon Ursa to protect this city, even if this method will make you a target of scorn, or even forever reviled.]


    [A few dayster, you announce a neww¡ªthe "First Cup of Wine Act." ording to thew, all pure maidens in Mondstadt must spend the night before their wedding atop the city''s high tower, offering the first cup of wine to Barbatos, the Anemo Archon.]


    [This, of course, is a thinly veiled excuse. The high tower is owned by the Lawrence family, and for years, the "sacrifices" for the WindBlume Festival have been forced to endure a grim ritual there.]


    [Everyone understands what this so-called "First Cup of Wine Act" truly means. This outrageousw appalls not onlymoners but even some nobles, who find it disgraceful.]


    [However, with you now holding absolute power in Mondstadt, no one can challenge your decision. Some think you''ve lost your mind in your battle with the dragon Ursa, while others believe you''ve simply given up, embracing a hedonistic life before the end.]


    [Still, there are those who scoff at thew and proceed withvish weddings, only to realize it''s no joke when soldiers break into their homes and forcibly take the newlywed brides away.]


    [To minimize unrest, you came up with a smallpromise.]


    [Mondstadt''s poption is quiterge, and many couples marry daily. Every night, the brides are sent to the high tower. You order their eyes to be blindfolded and select only one each night. This way, no one knows who the "chosen one" is, except the victim herself.]


    [One per night¡ªthis is far from your limit, but bnce is key. Overdoing it could lead to unforeseen consequences.]


    [Although one bride is forced to undergo the ritual every night, as long as her family remains silent, there''s no public shame. Additionally, the chosen bride receives a hefty pensation" upon her departure.]


    [The lights of the high tower burn through the night. Those with sharp eyes might even glimpse a shadowy figure¡ªeach day''s sacrifice performing the first cup of wine ritual.]


    [As expected, your power grows at an astonishing rate.]


    [Age 39: After a year of umtion, you''ve grown significantly stronger. You realize, however, that brides with the fire element are the rarest, and enhancing your fire elemental abilities would greatly boost your strength.]


    [Nevertheless, you''ve be increasingly reclusive, and only letters from your son asionally bring a smile to your face.]


    [Age 40: The dragon Ursa attacks Mondstadt once again. This time, you stand atop the high tower and strike the overconfident dragon with searing mes, forcing it to retreat in fear.]


    [Below the tower, countless Mondstadt citizens bow their heads. You believe they are showing respect, but little do you know¡ªthey are merely too terrified to look up.]


    [Although you didn''t kill the dragon, this battle proves that your decision was the right one. As long as you continue to strengthen yourself, you will surely be able to eliminate this threat once and for all.]


    [In rare good spirits, you don a simple linen garment you haven''t worn in years and, once again, disguise yourself as amoner to wander the city.]


    [Returning to the familiar tavern, you find that the once joyful atmosphere is gone. The ce is now filled with gloom. Only then do you recall that, to maintain your rule, you nted numerous spies among themoners. Anyone caught speaking ill of you is immediately arrested.]


    [Amidst the gloom, you spot a sh of bright red. A red-haired woman sits at the bar, drinking beer inrge gulps, with a square object strapped to her back.]


    [You suddenly remember the prophecy¡ªthat a red-haired warrior would overthrow your rule. Feigning nonchnce, you strike up a conversation with her. To your surprise, she is quite free-spirited, and the two of you get along well.]


    [For some reason, you feel an inexplicable sense of closeness to this red-haired woman, someone you''ve never met before. It''s the most fun you''ve had since sending your son away.]


    [She tells you that she isn''t from Mondstadt. She grew up in Liyue with her mother, who gave birth to her out of wedlock and never spoke about her father.]


    [Recently, her mother passed away, and in her belongings, the woman found a portrait of a man. She suspects this man might be her father, so she returned to her mother''s homnd in search of clues.]


    [Your heart skips a beat, and you can''t help but recall the red-haired girl from the WindBlume Festival twenty years ago. Could it really be possible that this world holds such strange coincidences? You ask to see the portrait, and to your surprise, she agrees.]


    [The fine canvas and paint haven''t faded with time. The young man in the portrait, his smile restrained, is none other than your 18-year-old self.]


    [Instinctively, you fear being recognized. But when you nce at your reflection in a distant mirror, you realize your face has long since changed from those youthful days. The red-haired woman doesn''t seem to suspect that you''re the man she''s looking for.]


    [Casually, you ask, "What will you do if you find this man?"]


    [The red-haired womanughs, clenching her fist and saying, "If I really find him, I''ll definitely give him a good beating. But I probably won''t hit his face, since he''s pretty handsome. Although I hate the guy, I have to admit that I inherited some of his good looks... well, maybe a third at most."]


    [She isn''t boasting. The woman has indeed inherited her mother''s beauty, along with that striking red hair.]


    [Facing the woman who is most likely your daughter, you decide...]


    [1. To reveal the truth]


    [2. To keep it hidden]


    After a brief hesitation, Lucas still chose the second option.


    Even if you were to acknowledge her, what would be the point?


    Would you really tell her that her birth was the result of a forced encounter twenty-two years ago?


    And that her biological father spends his days atop the high tower, engaged in disgraceful deeds?


    Now, he finally understood how Ingobert must have felt when he learned of Eberhart, his illegitimate son.


    Would revealing the truth bring her happiness?


    [In the end, you couldn''t muster the courage to acknowledge her. Instead, you wished her luck in finding the man she was looking for. Before leaving, you discreetly slipped a few gems into her pocket.]


    [Age 41: ording to your spies, a strange troupe has recently appeared in Mondstadt. They seem to wander the world, and after arriving in Mondstadt, they''ve been singing songs with a rebellious tone.]


    ---


    Author''s Note: Good or bad ending?


    And did you guess the dragon waifu by now?

 Chapter 57: Villain Simulator, Ch 57

    <h4>Chapter 57: Viin Simtor, Ch 57</h4>


    [However, you didn''t pay them any mind. You have always been pursuing the power to eliminate the dragon Ursa. How could a mere band shake you?]


    [The only thing that bothers you is that your son, Kreuzlied, hasn''t written back for a long time. He''s been away from home for a long time. By now, he must have grown into a fine young man, right?]


    [Age 42: The Windblume Festival is held as usual this year, but the people seem numb. After all, in the past, only one sacrifice was chosen annually, but now, one is chosen every day.]


    [The festivities are no different from previous years. You sit in the VIP seat, utterly bored, watching this year''s performance.]


    [You nce at the sacrifice on the high tform. She is a beautiful, ethereal girl. Despite having tasted countless fine wines since the First Cup of Red Wine Act was implemented, this one still makes your eyes light up.]


    [Of course, you''re not the only one who noticed. The young men of the Lawrence family have already gathered beneath the tform, their eyes hungry like wolves, awaiting the feather-throwing ceremony after the performance. Who knows which lucky scoundrel will get this beauty tonight?]


    [The final performance is by a band with interesting instruments¡ªa longsword as a flute, a shortbow as a violin, and a greatsword as a bell. The conductor, wearing a fancy hat, holds a music sheet and gives you a slight bow. They all wear intricate masks.]


    [Naturally, this is tradition. Performers for the nobility must wear masks if they are unattractive to avoid offending the nobles'' eyes.]


    [Although you''re not versed in music, their sound and singing are quite captivating, even lulling you into enjoyment. But just as you''re immersed in the music, the violinist suddenly pulls out an arrow, using their instrument as a bow, and fires it directly at you.]


    [It all happens too suddenly. Despite your formidable skills, you barely manage to dodge, but the arrow still grazes your cheek.]


    [The band has already turned their instruments into weapons andunched an assault on you. Chaos erupts on the scene. It seems they were well-prepared¡ªeven the guards assigned to watch over the event have vanished without a trace.]


    [The four of them are powerful, but they''ve underestimated your strength. Years of "umtion" have made you terrifyingly strong. More than shock, what you feel is rage.]


    [Why betray me? Don''t you know that everything I''ve done was to protect you? I point my spear-de at external enemies, but you aim your weapons at me!]


    [Your fury fuels the fire element within you, making it even more violent. They seem to realize your strength. The first to show a weakness is the conductor. Even with the mask on, you can see the "death line" in her eyes. Without hesitation, you pierce her mask with a single shot, the needle-like spear-de driving through the back of her skull.]


    [The conductor''s gruesome death leaves the other three members frozen in ce. You, however, wear a menacing smile: "You should envy her because she didn''t die in pain. The rest of you will pay for your betrayal!"]


    [The flutist, wielding the flute-sword, rushes at you. The de whistles through the air, producing a beautiful flute sound. But you catch her de with one hand, the searing mes from your palm instantly melting the exquisite weapon into molten iron.]


    ["Your biggest mistake was making your weapons into toys," you sneer, delivering a punch to her abdomen, instantly knocking her out. "Your swordsmanship has potential. You could serve as a diator for others'' entertainment."]


    ["Die, you tyrant who harms innocent girls!" The violinist fires a rapid volley of arrows at you, but the moment they get close, they vaporize in the heat of your fiery aura.]


    [Your spear technique is known for its precision, capable of lifting the morning dew. Your spear strikes like a shadow, and when you finish, the delicate bow-violin has fallen to the ground. The violinist screams in agony; all ten of his fingers have been pierced by your needle-like spear tip. Ten fingers connected to the heart¡ªhe''s in unbearable pain.]


    ["Now you won''t be able to pluck either bowstrings or violin strings," you say coldly, turning your gaze to thest remaining opponent¡ªa teenage boy wielding a massive bell-sword.]


    [Despite his youth, he shows no fear, gripping his greatsword and charging at you. You don''t hold back, slicing through his tendons with your spear-de as if it were a serpent.]


    [The greatsword crashes to the ground with a deep, resounding bell sound, followed by the boy''s mask.]


    [When you see his face, you freeze. Though it''s been years since youst saw this face, you recognize it instantly.]


    ["Kreuzlied... my son... Why is it you?" You can''t believe that your most cherished son would join a rebellion against you.]


    ["Because you''ve gone mad!" Kreuzlied says, his expressionplicated. "I know all the atrocities you''vemitted. I''m here to overthrow you and the corrupt nobles like you!"]


    [The prophecy from over a decade ago reys in your mind. Your son, it seems, truly does want to kill you. But this prophecy has already been broken¡ªyou did not die by your son''s hand like your father did.]


    [Fate has been shattered!]


    [You raise your spear, pointing it at Kreuzlied, and coldly say, "My son, if you swear never to associate with these rebels again and obediently be a noble, I can pretend today never happened."]


    [However, Kreuzlied resolutely replies, "Do you remember when I was kidnapped as a child? They never hurt me. Instead, they told me about your crimes. From that moment, the seed of rebellion took root in my heart. Meeting the band gave me the determination to return to Mondstadt and overthrow your tyranny. The thing I hate most in this life... is that the filthy blood of the nobility runs through my veins!"]


    [His words are so ironic. The noble identity you''ve pursued all your life has be a burden to him. But you haven''tpletely given up on your son. He''s only fifteen, still too young. Perhaps, as he matures, he''ll realize how naive his thinking is.]


    [However, Kreuzlied''s treason can no longer be hidden. You must give the other nobles an exnation. You have no choice but to strip him of his noble title and exile him.]


    [In his stubborn gaze, you see a reflection of your brother. Perhaps this is karma for what you did years ago.]


    [As a noble, Kreuzlied is spared from death, but the other two rebels¡ªyou''re determined to give them the harshest punishment, so the people of Mondstadt will understand the price of defying you.]


    [You order the conductor''s body to be hung at the city gate, so all passersby can see the gruesome sight of her pierced skull.]


    [As for the flutist, you throw her into the diatorial arena, where she will face countless battles daily until her inevitable death.]


    [Regarding the violinist, after reviewing his background, you devise a most brutal punishment.]


    [Forced entry into immersive modemencing.]


    [Task prompt: In this immersive mode, act like a viin and drive the violinist to mental copse. Your rewards will be based on the level of his breakdown.]


    Immersive mode task?


    This seems to be the first time...


    But what exactly does this task mean?


    [Simply put, it''s... psychological torment.]


    "Got it."


    Lucas immediately understood what the system meant.


    If the conductor''s punishment was death, and the flutist''s was physical torment, then the violinist''s punishment would be mental destruction.


    Having spent so much time with the system, Lucas had already mastered the art of ying the viin.


    Lucas found himself in a very familiar ce...


    The high tower where the "sacrifices" took ce.


    In the simtor, he had drunk countless cups of fine wine here.


    In front of him is a young man bound by ropes. His face is handsome, perhaps even more so than Eberhart in his youth. But now, he looks disheveled, his once-beautiful fingers broken and horrifyingly mangled.


    "Hello, young man," Lucas said with a smile, sitting before the violinist. "I didn''t expect someone rebelling against me would be such a good-looking fellow. I bet many girls are infatuated with that face of yours, right?"


    The violinist showed no expression. His parched lips moved slightly as he muttered, "Kill me."


    "No? That would be too easy," Lucas shook his head. "Do you know? The people of this country misunderstand me. They''re like Kreuzlied, rebellious children. But I will forgive them."


    "Stop deceiving yourself," the violinist''s beautiful eyes shed with hatred. "You''re nothing but a hedonistic tyrant."


    "And how much do you really know about this country?" Lucas fiddled with the documents in his hand. "I investigated you. You''re from Fontaine. Why travel so far to rebel against a foreign noble?"


    "Wherever there is oppression, there will be resistance!" the violinist said defiantly,"Every year during the Windblume Festival, you force an innocentmon girl to be sacrificed by the nobles. Isn''t this atrocious act something that should be overthrown?"


    "Well said," Lucas sneered. "But the tradition of the Windblume Festival has been passed down for thousands of years. Why are you just now ying the hero?"


    "That... that''s just a coincidence..." the violinist murmured, momentarily at a loss for words.


    "Really... just a coincidence?" Lucas pped his hands gently and said, "Bring her in!"


    At hismand, a beautiful girl was escorted into the room by two soldiers. She was none other than the "sacrifice" selected for this year''s Windblume Festival.


    Their eyes met for a brief moment before quickly looking away, as if trying to conceal the connection between them.


    "There''s no need to hide anymore," Lucas patted the girl on the head, smiling. "You''re in love with this girl and didn''t want her to be the sacrifice. That''s why you nned this rebellion, isn''t it?"


    Seeing that his motives had been exposed, the violinist finally sighed. He red at Lucas and said, "So what if that''s true? What we did was still an act of justice!"


    "Justice?"


    Lucas suddenly stood up, grabbing the violinist by the hair. The girl, seeing this, showed a pained expression.


    "You did all this just because you happened to love this girl. If today''s sacrifice wasn''t her, but some ugly old woman, would you still have acted?"


    Lucas''s demeanorpletely shifted from calm to hysterical: "Is this your so-called ''justice''? You attempted to assassinate me because of a fleeting emotion? Do you realize how many people will suffer because of this? Do you even understand that without me, there would be no one left to protect this city from the dragon Ursa''s invasion?"


    His rapid-fire questions left the violinist, who moments earlier had been resolute, momentarily at a loss for words¡ªperhaps even a bit afraid.


    "I''m sorry, I may have lost my temper," Lucas said, his face softening as quickly as it had hardened. Releasing the violinist''s hair, he patted it gently and said warmly:


    "I hope I didn''t scare you, young man. You see, I''m really not such a bad person. Everything can be negotiated. Your twopanions¡ªone''s body is now hanging from the city gates, while the other has been thrown into the diator arena to fight until her death. But... I can give you a way out."


    "Stop talking!" the violinist said resolutely. "They''ve all met a terrible fate. How could I live on in cowardice?"


    "Don''t you think it''s unfair? The conductor is dead, and the sword dancer won''tst more than three months," Lucas shook his head and said, "But my son Kreuzlied was merely exiled. In a few years, I might find an opportunity to pardon him. By then, he could return to his prestigious noble status. Meanwhile, the grass on your graves will likely be three feet tall."


    Sure enough, the violinist hesitated. The initial reason they had nned this assassination was to save the girl he loved. As for rebelling against tyranny, that was merely a convenient excuse.


    The wandering band had always acted as knights of justice, and with their impressive skills, they had never suffered a loss¡ªperhaps they even thought this time would be no different.


    But now, faced with the blood-soaked reality, the idealistic man from Fontaine finally realized the harshness of the real world.


    At that moment, a shadow suddenly descended from outside the window. The violinist, quick to react, looked toward the window, only to immediately gag at the sight before him.


    Hanging outside the window was the conductor''s rotting corpse, maggots crawling in and out of her broken eye sockets. Her once elegant and beautiful face now resembled a decaying nt.


    "Speak..." The violinist, his mental defensespletely shattered, frowned and said, "What is your deal?"


    "It''s simple. I can give you two choices," Lucas, seemingly having predicted the violinist''s decision, raised one finger. "First, I''ll torture you with the 72 methods of the Lawrence family, one each day, and on thest day, I''ll release you from your suffering."


    "W-What kind of torture?" Sweat dripped down the violinist''s forehead.


    "If I were to exin all of them, we wouldn''t have enough time tonight," Lucas said casually, taking out a small, transparent object and cing it before the violinist. "Here''s an example¡ªthe first one."


    It was a transparent piece about the size of a fingernail. Of course, this description might be redundant because... it was a fingernail,plete and stained with blood.


    "This belonged to your friend, the sword dancer," Lucas said nonchntly. "After each victory in the diatorial arena, she gets one of her nails pulled out."


    "Why?" The violinist''s eyes widened in shock. "Didn''t she win?"


    "Yes, so only one nail was removed. If she had lost..." Lucas extended both hands and said, "They''d all be pulled out."


    Seeing the violinist''s expression twist in horror, Lucas waved a hand, smiling. "Just kidding. diators who lose face only one oue¡ªdeath. The victor usually opens their chest and pulls out their heart. Have you ever seen a heart beating in someone''s palm?"


    "Stop... stop talking!" The violinist swallowed hard and asked, "W-What''s the second option?"


    "The second is much simpler," Lucas pointed to the girl who had been brought in and smiled. "Tonight, she''llplete the Windblume Festival ritual ording to tradition, and afterward, you can leave with her. If you need it, I can even give you some money for the road."


    "H-How can you..." the violinist mumbled, "This is too much! You''re a monster! A demon!"


    "I''ve already been quite lenient. After all, this was her fate," Lucas shrugged with a smile. "But if you''re willing to sacrifice yourself, I can guarantee that she won''t be a sacrifice. She''s so beautiful¡ªshe''ll surely find a good man and start a new family."


    The violinist was at a loss for words, but the girl suddenly spoke, "I... I''m will¡ª"


    "Shut up!" Lucas''s roar startled the girl into immediate silence. "I''m asking him. If you dare say another word, I''ll cut out your tongue."


    "Make your choice, little violinist," Lucas looked down at the violinist, his tone mocking. "Will you sacrifice yourself, or her?"


    The violinist nced at the corpse of his fallen friend hanging outside the window, then at the Mondstadt girl he adored. Forcing a smile, he said, "I... I won''t abandon you. We''ll run away together, far from here, to a ce where no one knows us, okay?"


    The girl didn''t dare speak but was moved to tears, nodding repeatedly.


    "How touching," Lucas pped his hands,ughing. "Love is truly beautiful. Guards, bring in the equipment."


    At hismand, the two soldiers returned, carrying a metal helmet. Without a word, they ced it on the violinist''s head and secured it tightly around his neck.


    Seeing this, the violinist began to struggle slightly, panic rising in his voice. "What... what is this?"


    "Just a simple torture device," Lucas said casually. "It can force someone''s eyelids open, preventing them from sleeping. And when the neck is fixed in ce, it forces the person to stare at one spot. Quite an interesting tool, don''t you think?"


    The violinist seemed to realize what Lucas was nning, and he muttered, "Please... why are you doing this to me?"


    "Why?" Lucas''s smile faded, his tone growing cold. "You only have yourselves to me¡ªfor your ignorance, your childishness, and for leading my carefully groomed son astray. Did you really think all nobles are fools? Now, you must pay for your recklessness!"


    The device was quickly secured, forcing the violinist''s eyes wide open, his gaze locked on the direction of the sacrificial ritual. His neck immobilized, he couldn''t even turn away.


    "To be honest, I''d feel weird having someone stare directly at me," Lucas said, cing a thin screen between the violinist and the ritual. "There, that''s better."


    The screen disyed only faint shadows, resembling a puppet show. However, for the violinist, the sounds were perfectly clear. Each word, each note, yed clearly in his sensitive musician''s ears.


    Whether it was from the prolongedck of sleep or the overwhelming emotional trauma, tears began to stream continuously from the violinist''s forcibly open eyes.


    He recalled the first time he met the girl by theke.


    He remembered the joyful times ying music with his friends at the tavern.


    He remembered the confident preparation of their n.


    In their n, by now, they would have overthrown Mondstadt''s nobles and yed the song of victory, celebrated by the liberated citizens.


    But now, he realized just how foolish their actions had been.


    -----


    Author''s Note: Completely devious... Also posted a aux chap with mc''s details, Checkout if you haven''t already.


    Will post extra Chapter today.


    Might post 2 if we hit 800 stones.


    "I like my cheese drippy bruh"

 Chapter 58: Villain Simulator, Ch 58

    <h4>Chapter 58: Viin Simtor, Ch 58</h4>


    His physical injuries had long lost their sensation.


    But his heart felt as if it were being cut and chopped with knives every second of every minute.


    The music behind the screen, which had started out loud and high, gradually became soft and subdued, eventually fading into silence, only to begin its cycle again after a brief pause. Over the course of one night, it repeated itself nine times.


    The violinist could not close his eyes, nor could he block out the sounds. His greatest pride in life had been his keen hearing, which could catch the whispers of insects and the trickling of mountain springs.


    Now, he wished he were deaf.


    ...


    The ritual continued from midnight until dawn. Only when the morning sun shone upon the screen, burning the violinist''s eyes, did the ceremony finally conclude.


    Though Lucas was over forty, his body had long surpassed the strength of ordinary men due to years of bathing in the First Cup of Red Wine.


    When he stepped out from behind the screen, sunlight bathed his body. His figure, resembling a grand statue, caused the violinist to feel a sense of inferiority.


    "Well, well, you''ve had a tough night," Lucas said as he took two steps forward and easily removed the torture device from the violinist''s head with his fingers. "Staying awake all night must have been quite painful, huh?"


    Pain?


    Yes, it was excruciating!


    But more unbearable than the pain in his eyes was the torment in the violinist''s heart.


    Perhaps due to being forced to stay awake all night, the violinist found himself unable to close his eyes.


    His once handsome and elegant face now appeared grotesque and horrifying, with his bloodshot eyes seemingly ready to burst from their sockets.


    The violinist remained silent, his gaze falling upon the girl who had haunted his dreams. But whether it was his imagination or not, it seemed as though her face did not show the despair or pain he had expected after the storm, but instead... a moreplex expression.


    "I keep my promises," Lucas patted the girl''s shoulder and smiled. "You can take her away now... Though, honestly, I''m a little reluctant to let her go."


    The violinist knew that this was a mockery directed at him. But he no longer cared.


    His spirit was on the brink of copse, and the only thing that could heal him now was the warmth of the girl''s embrace. The violinist just wanted to leave this hell with her by his side.


    However, just as he reached out his hand to take hers, the girl suddenly took half a step back.


    The violinist''s outstretched hand hovered in midair, trembling slightly.


    "W-What''s wrong?" the violinist asked in a daze. "Come with me. I don''t care about what happenedst night. We... we can start a new life..."


    "I''m sorry, but..." the girl gently tugged at Lucas''s sleeve, lowering her gaze. "I can no longer leave Lord Eberhart."


    Crack...


    It was as though Lucas could hear something breaking.


    "Ha... hahaha..." The violinist''s face twisted into a smile as he muttered, "No... that''s impossible... hahaha!"


    He stumbled toward the door, like a man who had lost his soul. The guards at the door immediately moved to stop him.


    "No need to stop him. Let him go," Lucas waved his hand.


    "But..." one of the guards hesitated. "He''s a criminal who tried to assassinate you."


    "Let the people of Mondstadt see the consequences of defying me," Lucas said with a cold smile, watching the violinist''s retreating figure. "Sometimes, the living are more useful than the dead. And sometimes, the dead are more useful than the living."


    [Immersive mode ended. Calcting score.]


    [Score: S-rank]


    [Rewards obtained: "Troupe''s Dawnlight," "Bard''s Arrow Feather," "Concert''s Final Hour," "Wanderer''s String-Kettle," "Conductor''s Top Hat"]


    [Full set of "Wanderer''s Troupe" obtained, activating set effect]


    [Effect: 1. Increases Elemental Mastery by 80% (Elemental Mastery is the ability to control elements; the higher the value, the greater the control). 2. Increases damage of all ranged attacks by 35%.]


    The rewards this time were quite generous.


    In previous achievements, I only got one relic at a time, but this time, I was given an entire set.


    However, the relic set bonuses seemed a little different from those in the game.


    In the game, "Elemental Mastery" increases both elemental damage and elemental reaction damage. But in this world, where you can''t frequently switch characters to trigger different elemental reactions, the Elemental Mastery effect has been changed to control over elements.


    [You did well, I almost feel like hugging you... if I had hands]


    The system gave a fairly blunt evaluation.


    "I was just in it for the rewards," Lucas replied, seeming to have grown more and more ustomed to these situations. "Besides, it was all just a performance. Does ying a viin in a movie mean the actor is a bad person in real life?"


    Being able to y a role that people hate is a talent in itself. Even Teacher Li, who yed a famous viin, was once pelted with rotten eggs.


    [You make a good point. Here''s to you continuing to grow stronger and reaching new heights]


    [Switching to text mode]


    [Under your iron rule, the "Wanderer''s Troupe Band" waspletely dismantled. The conductor''s body was taken down, but a mad beggar has now appeared in the town, his appearance terrifying, especially his wide-open eyes, which seem to never close.]


    [People know he was once one of the rebels, and this... is the fate of those who resist.]


    [Of course, this is not the end. Onest member still fights on. Though the sword dancer was made a diator ve, she continues to resist, defeating all her opponents. Her bold and graceful form has even earned her the title "Swordsman of the Dawn."]


    [This doesn''t upset you. After all, she is your diator ve. The blood and sweat she sheds will ultimately be your profit. Forcing her to sell her swordsmanship to the very nobles she despises and to kill her own kind¡ªcould there be a more fitting punishment?]


    [The diator arena is a space reserved for the entertainment of nobles. Nothing better showcases the nobility''s superiority than watching the lowly fight for their lives to provide amusement.]


    [At the same time, the arena is also a ce for nobles to disy their wealth. The wealthier the family, the more expensive and powerful the diator ves they can afford, winning battle after battle.]


    [As the most prominent noble family in Mondstadt, the Lawrence family holds significant influence in the arena. Under yourmand are many skilled diators.]


    [Today, you''ve hidden your identity and entered the arena to watch the sword dancer''s battle. After all, watching as the head of the Lawrence family would surely draw unwanted attention. Upon entering, however, you spot a familiar figure¡ªa white-haired old diator.]


    [He was the first diator to submit to you thirty years ago. Even then, he was already old, and now he is over eighty. Though you long ago granted him his freedom, he chose to remain in the arena, doing odd jobs.]


    [Much like a prisoner who has spent too long in jail and cannot adapt to the outside world, the old diator has be a ve to the system. Whenever he sees you, he still respectfully calls you "Master" as a sign of his loyalty.]


    [The diatorial match soon begins, and atst, you see the sword dancer''s elegant form. Although she is no match for you, her graceful and agile swordsmanship, like a dance, has earned her victory after victory.]


    [You once promised her an almost impossible task¡ªif she won one hundred battles, you would grant her freedom.]


    [She does not fear death, but she craves freedom. Freedom would mean a chance to seek revenge against you.]


    [Her next match will be her one-hundredth. You are not afraid that she will win and gain her freedom¡ªyou can give her freedom and still have a thousand ways to make her a ve again.]


    [Her opponent steps into the ring. The moment you see her, your gaze is immediately drawn to her.]


    [She is a red-haired woman with tan skin, seemingly from the nomadic Nan tribe. Due to the dragon Ursa''s attacks, many Nan people fled to Mondstadt, where they were enved.]


    [You''ve never seen her before, but you sense an extraordinary potential in her.]


    [A prophecy shes in your mind¡ªyour rule will be overthrown by a red-haired warrior!]


    [The battle begins, with the sword dancer and the red-haired swordswoman shing fiercely. Both are highly skilled, and as they exchange blows, you sense a mutual admiration between them.]


    [Both are young, both resentful of the nobility, both possessing exceptional swordsmanship. The sword dancer''s technique is graceful and elegant, while the red-haired warrior''s style is fierce and relentless. Even ayperson would be captivated by such a brilliant fight, let alone you, someone who has studied how to counter sword techniques from a young age.]


    [Both of them are rare swordsmanship talents, but unfortunately, in the diator arena, only one can survive.]


    [In the end, the red-haired swordswoman gains the upper hand, finding an opening in the sword dancer''s technique and driving her sword into her chest. Blood stters across the red-haired warrior''s face, adding a solemn air to her exotic features.]


    [As the sword dancer''s life fades, the red-haired warrior says something. You can''t hear it, but with your hawk-like eyesight, you read her lips: "I will carry on your will to resist."]


    [That''s right! It''s her! With her great strength, her will to resist, and her warrior-like spirit, she is the one destined to overthrow your rule.]


    [But you are not afraid. Since you''ve already stopped one prophecy, you can certainly stop another. You decide to:]


    [1. Buy the red-haired swordswoman and kill her]


    [2. Order the noble who owns her to kill her]


    [3. Find a stronger diator to kill her]


    "I choose the first!"


    After a moment of thought, Lucas made his decision.


    diator ves are the private property of nobles. Even as the head of the Lawrence family, you cannot simply demand the destruction of someone else''s property. Such an action would raise suspicions and unnecessary attention.


    As for the third option, Lucas suspected that the red-haired warrior was likely Vennessa, the "Lionfang Knight" from history, who overthrew the Mondstadt aristocracy and founded the Knights of Favonius. Finding a diator strong enough to defeat her would be nearly impossible.


    Quietly buying her and then killing her would be far easier. After all, the Lawrence family nevercked money.


    [You decide to find the owner of the red-haired swordswoman and buy her. Just as you''re about to leave the arena, someone taps you on the shoulder. You turn around and are surprised to see that the person is the red-haired woman you encountered at the tavern, the one who is likely your illegitimate daughter.]


    [You''re surprised because only nobles are allowed inside the arena. The red-haired woman seems to notice your surprise and exins that she has inherited her grandfather''s job and be a squire. She then asks you why you are here.]


    [Since you are hiding your identity, you casually tell her that you''re just a worker at the arena. The red-haired woman seems to believe youpletely and even asks if you could give the "Swordsman of the Dawn" a proper burial.]


    ["Uncle, that final sword dance of the Swordsman of the Dawn really moved me. If I ever be a true knight, I want to name myself in her honor! I''ll call myself..." the red-haired girl excitedly dered, "the Dawn Knight!"]


    No way!


    Lucas smacked his forehead.


    He had previously wondered whether the ancestor of the Ragnvindr family a thousand yearster might be this red-haired woman''s brother, but now it seemed she was indeed the one!


    What kind of expression would Master Diluc have if he found out that his ancestor was connected to the Lawrence family''s tyrant?


    Thankfully, this is just a simtion.


    [So, she''s been inspired by the spirit of the rebels? If it were anyone else, you would have immediately ordered their capture. But in the end, you can''t bring yourself to harm your daughter.]


    [After all, it''s not unusual for young people to admire heroic figures. Once she matures, she''lle to realize how foolish she once was.]


    [The only thing you need to do now is eliminate that red-haired swordswoman!]


    [You found the owner of the red-haired swordswoman. He was also a noble of Mondstadt, not as powerful as the Lawrence family, but still quite influential, though he had always been overshadowed by the Lawrences.]


    [You inquired about the red-haired swordswoman and learned that her name was Vennessa, a refugee from the Munata tribe who hade to Mondstadt. Because of her impressive swordsmanship, she was made into a diator.]


    [You expressed your desire to buy Vennessa, but to your surprise, the noble refused. As it turns out, this noble family had long been passionate about the diatorial arena business, but they could never surpass the Lawrence family. Now that they had a powerful diator like Vennessa, they saw her as their chance to be the champions of the arena. There was no way they would sell her to another family.]


    [Although the Lawrence family held immense power in Mondstadt, the city''s aristocracy was deeply interconnected. They had no issue with how you exploited themoners, but when their interests were at stake, they wouldn''t agree easily.]


    [Faced with the looming threat of being overthrown, you weren''t about to give up so easily. An insidious n came to mind that would allow you to get your hands on Vennessa... Killing her outright would be a waste. You felt a fiery power within her that, if absorbed, would greatly enhance your own fire elemental strength.]


    [You summoned your loyal diators and asked if any were willing to participate in a battle they were sure to die in. If they epted, their families would receive a substantial reward.]


    [The diators hesitated. After all, most of them were loners fighting for their freedom, hoping to win enough matches to return to a life of liberty. Who would willingly give up their life?]


    [At that moment, a sturdy figure knelt before you, offering to take on the task.]


    [It was none other than the old diator who had served you for thirty years. He was now quite elderly, but his clouded eyes still shone with unwavering determination.]


    [Your feelings wereplicated. Though just a ve, the diator had been your first teacher in spear techniques. He had devoted nearly half his life to serving you, while others around you had left, yet he had remained loyal.]


    ["Don''t feel troubled, my lord. I am old. Rather than waiting silently for death, I would prefer to die fighting in the arena," the diator carefully pulled a ss-encased flower from his pocket. The flower had long since withered and turned ck¡ªit was the one you casually gave him years ago. "This old servant swore an oath to Lord Eberhart and is ready to shed myst drop of blood for him!"]


    [While everyone now called you "Lord," the diator still addressed you as "Young Master." To him, you were still the young boy who gave him a boutonni¨¨re and practiced spear techniques under the moonlit sky.]


    [With a sigh, you epted the diator''s request. Three dayster, the "special" duel began. On one side stood the arena''s rising star, the foreign swordswoman Vennessa, known as the "Battle Demon," while on the other was an old spearman, barely able to stand.]


    [The diator''s final battle was not greeted with flowers and apuse, but with mockery and scorn. Everyone thought the Lawrence family had gone mad for sending an old man to face the strongest diator in the arena.]


    [But the old diator still held his iron spear firmly, standing tall in front of Vennessa, and she, in return, offered him her utmost respect.]


    [What was expected to be an easy battle turned out to be anything but. The old diator''s spear techniques were elusive and masterful, keeping Vennessa at bay for quite some time.]


    [Experience outweighs youth, and a stick in the hands of an elder is more dangerous than fists of the young. Years of battle experience had refined the diator''s skills to their purest form. He had given most of his life to the arena, and this final performance would be nothing short of perfect.]


    [The audience, including you, were stunned by the spectacle. No one had expected the old man, who usually swept the grounds, to be so powerful. Gradually, the crowd began to cheer for him.]


    [However, the diator was simply too old. Though his spear techniques were unmatched, his stamina was quickly depleted. Vennessa knew that all she had to do was wait.]


    [Finally, the old diator reached his limit. The iron spear in his frail hands felt as heavy as a thousand pounds, and he could no longer lift it.]


    ["Kill me," the diator whispered his final request. "It is myst wish."]


    [Vennessa nodded. With a single thrust, her sword pierced the old man''s heart. "You were an honorable opponent," she said softly.]


    ["No, I wasn''t," the diator muttered. With his remaining strength, he grabbed the de of Vennessa''s sword and smeared the poison he had hidden in his palm onto the de. "I''m sorry, but this was my duty."]


    [Vennessa''s eyes widened in shock as she quickly withdrew her sword from the diator''s chest, but it was toote. ck blood was already trickling from the old man''s lips.]


    ["Poison! There''s poison on the sword!" someone in the crowd shouted, and soon a group of soldiers rushed in, seizing the stunned Vennessa.]


    -----


    Author''s Note: I wasn''t joking when I said he''ll do worse things in this simtionpared to barbara one....


    Well we did not reach 800 ps so only 1 chap!

 Chapter 59: Villain Simulator, Ch 59

    <h4>Chapter 59: Viin Simtor, Ch 59</h4>


    [The diator copsed powerlessly, lying on the sand-covered arena floor. His helmet rolled off, revealing his sparse silver hair.]


    [Blood gradually darkened the sand. With hisst bit of strength, he pulled the small flower from his chest. Through the ss bottle, he seemed to see the cheerful noble boy once again, reaching out to him with a smile and saying, "Do you wish to be my diator?"]


    ["Thank you." You knelt down and closed the diator''s eyes, picking up his helmet. The sadness on your face flickered briefly before reverting to your usual cold expression.]


    [Achievement unlocked: "The diator''s Triumph."]


    [Reward: "The diator''s Finale" item.]


    [Category: Set Piece.]


    [Effect: (2/4) Increases attack power by 18%.]


    [Description: The helmet of a legendary ancient diator, stained with the blood of countless foes and proudly worn amidst the cheers of innumerable spectators.]


    [Yes, this was your n. Before the battle, you had your diator conceal poison. At the moment of his death, he smeared it on the opponent''s sword, framing Vennessa for using poison.]


    [ording to Mondstadt''s diatorial rules, if a diator used dishonorable means to kill their opponent, the victim''s owner had the right to punish the offending diator in any way they wished¡ªwhether by execution or by iming them as their own.]


    [Your n wasn''t particrly clever. Vennessa''s owner adamantly denied ever instructing his diator to use poison. However, after the aristocratic council''s arbitration, you sessfully gained the right to deal with Vennessa. Now, faced with the red-haired warrior''s furious gaze from within her cage, you decide...]


    [1. Execute her immediately.]


    [2. Absorb her power, then execute her.]


    [3. Release her.]


    "Number... number two."


    After a moment of hesitation, Lucas chose the second option.


    Letting her go was absolutely out of the question. For any reason, releasing her was simply not an option.


    Executing her right away would be the safest approach, but it would waste the opportunity to absorb her energy.


    ording to previous experiences in the simtor, sacrifices with fire elemental power were incredibly rare. Although not all red-haired women had the fire element, by coincidence, every source of fire elemental power Lucas had absorbed so far came from red-haired women.


    [You decide to absorb her power first, then execute her, so as not to waste such a precious "sacrifice." After all, she was just a ve, lower than even amoner, merely her master''s property.]


    [As usual, you ordered her to be taken to the high tower.]


    [Forcing entry into immersive mode.]


    [Mission objective: Make Vennessa willingly participate in the sacrificial ritual.]


    [Mission reward: B-grade equipment ¡Á1.]


    Reluctantly, Lucas was once again drawn into the simtor.


    It seemed the system had unlocked a new feature in immersive mode, requiring him toplete various tasks during these scenarios.


    However, this task was much harder than forcing Vennessa into the sacrificial ritual.


    It was obvious that Vennessa had already figured out the truth about the poison on her weapon and despised him. How could she possiblyply willingly?


    Once again, it was the familiar high tower.


    Interestingly, most of Lucas''s immersive scenarios had taken ce in this tower.


    The red-haired girl was tightly bound by ropes. Her tanned skin and deep wine-red hair were rare sights in Mondstadt.


    Though not exceptionally beautiful by traditional standards, Vennessa possessed a unique wild charm.


    "Vennessa¡ªthat''s your name, isn''t it?" Lucas sat in front of her, smiling. "You must know why I brought you here."


    "Hmph..." Vennessa red at him with fierce hatred. "Of course I know. Many innocent girls have already been sacrificed here."


    "Many? No, the exact number is 1,023," Lucas said calmly. "Their sacrifices were all for the future of Mondstadt."


    "Lies!" Vennessa shouted angrily. "It''s all to satisfy the twisted desires of you despicable nobles!"


    "What if I told you that everything I''ve done is to gain power to fight off the dragon Ursa and protect Mondstadt?" Lucas said coldly. "Would you believe me?"


    "That''s absurd!" Vennessa''s eyes widened in disbelief. "Even the greatest warriors of the Munata tribe couldn''t defeat the dragon Ursa. How could you... just a mere noble, possibly stand a chance?"


    "A mere noble?" Lucas scoffed. "Do you know who ensures there''s bread and milk on themoners'' tables? Who allows their children to receive an education? Who lets these weaklings survive in this world? It''s the very nobles you despise."


    "Lies! All lies!" Vennessa''s voice trembled with conviction. "Without the nobles, the people would thrive!"


    "Without us, they would be like you¡ªnomadic, homeless, reduced to refugees and ves at the first hardship," Lucas retorted coldly. "If you don''t believe me, then I''ll show you."


    With a snap of his fingers, the ropes binding Vennessa turned to ash, though her body remained unscathed.


    "You think you''re a skilled fighter?" Lucas beckoned her forward provocatively. "Defeat me, and I''ll grant you your freedom."


    "I''ll kill you, you monster!" Vennessa grabbed a decorative longsword from the wall and lunged at Lucas. To her shock, he didn''t move. When the sharp de struck his chest, it was like hitting steel. The impact numbed her hand, and the sword de shattered.


    "My defense is 134 times stronger than an average warrior," Lucas said calmly, raising his fist at blinding speed. "And my speed is 75 times faster."


    His fist stopped just a centimeter from Vennessa''s nose. Though he didn''t make contact, the wind from his punch brushed painfully against her cheek.


    "My strength is 203 times greater," Lucas added, lowering his fist. "This is the result of the sacrifice of those 1,023 girls."


    Vennessa''s legs buckled, and she fell to her knees, muttering, "So... strong..."


    "Now you understand that I wasn''t lying. Let''s make a deal," Lucas said, flexing his wrist. "If you willingly go through with the ritual, I''ll grant you three wishes. First, I''ll free all your people. Second, I''ll defeat the dragon Ursa. Third, if your people desire it, they can be citizens of Mondstadt."


    "You... you''re not lying?" Vennessa''s eyes gleamed with hope. "No... swear it in the name of the Anemo God!"


    "Honesty is a virtue of the nobility," Lucas stood before her, towering like a god. "As for Barbatos, why would I need to swear by him? I am the god of Mondstadt now."


    "I understand," Vennessa nodded. "If my sacrifice can bring happiness to my people, then... I willingly ept the ritual."


    [First Cup of Red Wine ability activated. Attribute boost: Fire elemental attack increased by 300%, elemental mastery increased by 200%.]


    Lucas¡ªor rather, Eberhart''s¡ªsuspicions were correct. Vennessa''s body contained immense power, greatly enhancing his fire elemental abilities.


    [Missionplete: Make Vennessa willingly participate in the sacrificial ritual.]


    [Reward obtained: Royal Longbow.]


    [Quality: B.]


    [Effect: Every fourth attack is guaranteed to be a critical hit.]


    Lucas could feel the powerful fire element coursing through his veins. His strength, already at the level of a noble''s vassal, now seemed poised to break through its limits.


    But just then, his body suddenly ignited into mes!


    It wasn''t that a part of his body had caught fire¡ªhis entire being had be part of the me itself.


    The intense heat made it difficult for Lucas to breathe. ring at Vennessa, who had been obedient just moments ago, he struggled to speak: "You... what have you done?"


    "I''ve done nothing..." Vennessa replied calmly. "However, ever since I was a child, the Pyro God blessed and cursed me. The blessing gave me unparalleled skill in swordsmanship, but the curse... is that anyone whoes into ''contact'' with me will be cursed by the Pyro God, suffering the pain of being consumed by mes."


    "So that''s it, this was your n?" Lucas instantly realized the truth. Her earlier submission had all been an act. He coldly sneered, "Without me, the dragon Ursa will eventually destroy Mondstadt."


    "Ursa may be terrifying, but..." Vennessa shook her head, "you are a hundred times more evil than the dragon! I will overthrow you and lead Mondstadt to defeat Ursa!"


    "Hmph... you''ll regret this."


    With those final words, Lucas gradually lost consciousness.


    ...


    It was unclear how much time had passed when Lucas slowly regained his senses.


    To his surprise, he was still within the simtor.


    Normally, if Lucas lost consciousness in the simtor, the immersive mode would be forcibly terminated. But this time, even after waking up, he found himself still inside.


    He stood in confusion for about half a minute, gradually recalling what had transpired.


    "Dammit..." Lucas rarely cursed, but now he muttered, "I actually got yed by that woman."


    But such things couldn''t have been entirely out of his consideration.


    It felt like one of those scripted events from before, like the scenario with Shenhe...


    Wait, if this were a "scripted death," why was he still alive?


    Could it be that his skill, Eternal Bloodline, had been triggered, allowing him to be reborn?


    However, after checking his body, Lucas saw that he was still a full-grown adult. He likely hadn''t died yet.


    The burning sensation had disappeared, but his skin bore dark, charred marks, as if left by fire, or perhaps like some strange tattoo.


    Looking around, he realized he was in arge cave, its size suggesting that whatever lived here wasn''t small.


    Suddenly, a loud thud echoed nearby, as though some massive beast was moving. A ck silhouette emerged from the depths of the cave.


    It was a dark purple dragon''s head, its golden eyes ring at Lucas. The dragon slowly opened its huge maw, revealing a pale purple tongue.


    "So, that''s how it is..." Lucas let out a bitterugh. "Those damned rebels actually threw me here as a snack for Ursa."


    His presence here meant that Vennessa had likely overthrown his rule, and the prophecy... hade true.


    Being thrown to Ursa was likely part of their n, hoping he and the dragon would fight to the death, allowing them to benefit from the oue.


    But Lucas wasn''t ready to ept his fate so easily.


    "Hey, Ursa!" Lucas spread his arms, grinning. "Do you want to eat me?"


    Honestly, Lucas didn''t expect the dragon to understand him¡ªhe only hoped it could read his bodynguage.


    Unexpectedly, the dragon backed up two steps in fear at his gesture, before lowering its head slightly. It then let out a deep, resonant voice: "Do you... wish to speak with me?"


    Lucas was shocked. "You... can speak humannguage?"


    "Humannguage is not a difficult concept," Ursa replied, nodding. "I remember you, the new head of the Lawrence family... You broke the pact between me and your house!"


    "What?" Lucas frowned. "There was a pact between the Lawrence family and you?"


    "Did the former head of Lawrence not tell you?" Ursa said indifferently. "Long ago, I made a pact with your ancestors. I could prey upon Mondstadt, but in exchange, I would stage mock battles with the Lawrence family and then be ''driven away''."


    Lucas quickly understood.


    It was a tactic the Lawrence family had used to maintain their rule over Mondstadt. By leveraging the threat of Ursa, they could consolidate their power. The cost? The lives of a fewmoners¡ªa practice typical of the Lawrence family.


    But why hadn''t his father told him about this?


    At this thought, Lucas smirked bitterly. After all, he had killed his own father to take the throne. Given the circumstances, Ingobert, his father, likely hadn''t had the chance to reveal this secret.


    "But..." Ursa''s tone grew angry. "You broke the pact. When I came to im my ''reward,'' you attacked me, evenunching a full campaign against me. You humans are truly treacherous."


    "There''s probably some misunderstanding here," Lucas replied helplessly. "My father, Ingobert, died unexpectedly and didn''t tell me about any of this."


    "Ingobert..." Ursa paused mid-sentence, then shook its head. "Never mind."


    "By the way..." Lucas nced up at Ursa, an idea forming in his mind. "Isn''t eating just a few people not enough to satisfy you?"


    "No, it''s not," Ursa answered bluntly. "I''m still very hungry."


    At that moment, Ursa''s golden eyes gleamed with hunger, and drool began to drip from the corners of its mouth.


    It was clear that Lucas''s body had whetted its appetite.


    "You want to eat me? That wouldn''t be a wise fight, since I would resist. The energy you''d spend battling me would be far greater than the nourishment my body could provide," Lucas said with a grin. "Wouldn''t you prefer a feast instead?"


    "Tell me more," Ursa said, intrigued.


    "Of course," Lucas patted his neck and smiled. "But first, Mr. Ursa, could you lower your head a bit? Talking like this is killing my neck."


    Perhaps due to the change in tone, Lucas now addressed Ursa as "Mr. Ursa."


    "Humans are so troublesome."


    Though somewhat annoyed, Ursaplied. His body was enveloped in a ck mist, which quickly condensed into a smaller, humanoid form.


    When the mist dissipated, standing before Lucas was a petite girl with long ck and purple hair. She wore no clothes, but her body was covered in tightly fitting scales. Two ck horns extended from her hair.


    Behind her was arge, powerful dragon tail that looked quite out of proportion to her slender frame.


    Yes, Ursa the dragon had taken on a human form.


    ----


    Author''s Note: ??


    Extra chap in a while


    2 extra chap If we reach 1200 ps!

 Chapter 60: Villain Simulator, Ch 60

    <h4>Chapter 60: Viin Simtor, Ch 60</h4>


    And not just any girl¡ªan absolutely stunning one with a thick tail!


    Damn!


    If you''de to Mondstadt looking like this earlier, even without a contract with the Lawrence family, you''d have a line of people begging to be eaten by you.


    "What''s wrong?" Dragon Ursa tilted her head, her expression a bit confused. "This form should makemunication easier, right? I could make myself even smaller if necessary."


    It had to be said¡ªUrsa didn''t seem to have much in the way of principles. She''d do just about anything for food.


    "This is fine," Lucas quickly nodded.


    Any smaller and it might be... inconvenient, who knows if the multiversal FBI exists?


    "Go on then," Ursa said, growing impatient. "How can I get more food?"


    "It''s simple," Lucas patted his chest and said, "We''ll attack Mondstadt together. We''ll wipe out everyone who''s against me. You can eat as much as you want. If you like, I can even roast them for you with my mes and season them with top-quality spices imported from Sumeru."


    Drip... ssh...


    Ursa said nothing, but the drool pouring out of her mouth like quicksilver made her stance clear.


    "But..." Ursa wasn''t entirely ruled by her hunger just yet. She wiped the drool from her mouth and asked, "Aren''t they your people?"


    "They were," Lucas replied calmly. "But they''ve already overthrown me."


    "But you''re the first Lawrence in thousands of years strong enough to fight me," Ursa said, confused. "Why would they overthrow you? It seems like a foolish choice."


    Lucas smiled. "Because I can''t give them what they want."


    "And what do they want?" Ursa asked, her confusion deepening. "From what I understand, humans mostly desire power, wealth, and pleasure."


    "A very urate summary," Lucas chuckled. "But what they want is... freedom."


    "They''re going to be disappointed. I doubt they''ll find much freedom inside my stomach," Ursa said with a naively sincere expression, rubbing her belly. "But I''ll try to find a spacious ce to expel them, so they can return to freedom."


    "Can you not romanticize taking a dump like that?" Lucas burst outughing and extended his hand toward Ursa. "Well then, we have a new deal."


    Ursa stared nkly at his outstretched hand before curling her thick tail around Lucas''s fingers.


    The cool, smooth scales sliding across his palm felt oddly pleasant.


    "This is how my kind seals a pact," Ursa said, her face expressionless. "When do we leave? Honestly, I''m starving. If this goes on much longer, I might lose control..."


    Her gaze slid back to Lucas''s body, sending a shiver down his spine.


    Drool once again dribbled from her mouth.


    "Tomorrow we''ll set off. I need a good night''s rest to recover my strength," Lucas said, as a thought crossed his mind. "Also, I need your help with something to ensure our n seeds."


    "With ourbined strength, is there really any chance of failure?" Ursa asked, confident in both her power and Lucas''s, having witnessed his strength firsthand.


    Together, they could easily overthrow not just one Mondstadt, but three.


    "There might be some tricky individuals among the rebels," Lucas exined. "You wouldn''t want any interruptions during your meal, would you?"


    "Fine," Ursa relented, her will easily bent when food was involved. "What do you need me to do?"


    "Simple," Lucas grinned, still holding her tail. "First, just lift your tail a bit. It''s kind of heavy."


    ...


    [" The First ss Of Red Wine " talent activated, reward: 100% increase in all attributes ]


    [Achievement Unlocked: Dragon Knight]


    [Reward: Talent - Ride Anything]


    [Effect: You can treat any creature weaker than yourself as a ''mount.'' You also have an innate talent for riding, able to master any ''mount,'' including all forms of transportation.]


    No doubt about it, Ursa''s dragon status made the rewards incredible.


    A 100% boost to all attributes¡ªsomething that would take a lot of sacrifices.


    "Are you sure this method will strengthen you?" Ursa asked as she tidied her long hair, frowning slightly. "I''ve never heard of such a way to increase one''s power."


    "Don''t you think..." Lucas casually conjured a fireball, sending it crashing into the wall and leaving a gaping hole in the stone. "...that I''ve grown stronger?"


    "Indeed, your fire element is much more powerful than when you attacked mest time. But..." Ursa''s expression turned displeased. "Do you not know that destroying a dragon''sir is considered an act of war?"


    "Cough... I was just demonstrating my power," Lucas awkwardly waved his hand. "Besides, are you really nning to keep living here?"


    "What else would I do?" Ursa seemed puzzled. "I was abandoned by my kin. I have no family, no friends."


    "It seems we''re in the same situation," Lucas said with a bitter smile. "If you don''t mind, once we finish this job, we could stick together."


    "Go with you?" Ursa sneered. "Do you really think that after just one coboration, you can be my master?"


    "That''s too bad..." Lucas feigned disappointment, shaking his head. "I was hoping we could travel and enjoy the cuisine of the Seven Nations together. I''ve invested in businesses in other countries, you know. Even if Mondstadt is destroyed, I''ll still be fine."


    "Now that you mention it... your offer isn''t that bad," Ursa changed her tone instantly. "But the food you''re talking about, is it as delicious as humans?"


    "I''m curious," Lucas rubbed his chin. "Why do you have to eat humans? Don''t pigs, horses, cows, and sheep taste just as good?"


    "I like bitter things," Ursa said matter-of-factly. "Andmoners are usually the bitterest."


    "Are Mondstadt''s people bitter?" Lucas asked.


    "Not very," Ursa replied, shaking her head. "But they are a little sour."


    Lucas chuckled at the unexpected answer, a hint of self-mockery in his smile. "Get a good rest. Tomorrow, skip breakfast and leave room for the feast."


    ---


    Three days after Mondstadt''s rebellion had triumphed.


    In front of the Favonius Cathedral, Vennessa stood by the statue of the Anemo Archon Barbatos, giving her victory speech. Standing next to her were other heroes who had fought in the rebellion.


    Thanks to her curse, which had burned the Lawrence family head Eberhart alive, Vennessa was able to unite the remaining rebel forces and topple Mondstadt''s noble regime.


    However, the victory hadn''te easily.


    "Citizens of Mondstadt!" Vennessa raised the Sword high and dered, "From today on, you will no longer be oppressed by the nobility! Your wives will no longer be sent to the tower, and there will be no more ves forced to fight in the diatorial arenas. We... are free!"


    Her rousing words were met with a thunderous cheer from the crowd.


    "Freedom!"


    "Freedom!"


    "Freedom!"


    But then, a hesitant voice emerged from the crowd. A young man frowned and said, "But... what happens now? The Lawrence family may have been evil, and Eberhart''s crimes are unspeakable, but without him, who will protect us from the dragon Ursa?"


    The crowd fell silent.


    Many knew that the reason for their victory was that the fearsome Lawrence family head, Eberhart, had not participated in the fight.


    Suddenly, someone punched the young man, knocking him to the ground. "How dare you speak for the Lawrence family! You''re a traitor!"


    "Traitor!"


    "Noble scum!"


    "Send him to the gallows with the other nobles!"


    The crowd''s anger red, and they turned on the innocent man, beating him relentlessly.


    "Everyone, please calm down!" A man with a greatsword strapped to his back, who had been standing beside Vennessa, stepped forward. "We want all Mondstadt peoples¡ªnoble ormoner¡ªto be treated equally, not to kill or exile every noble."


    This man was none other than Kreuzlied, Eberhart''s son, who had been stripped of his noble title and exiled. After joining the resistance, he yed a key role in the revolution.


    But someone pointed at Kreuzlied''s face and shouted, "This guy... he looks just like Eberhart!"


    "I remember him! He''s Kreuzlied! He''s a Lawrence too!"


    "His blood is tainted with sin. Get out of our city!"


    Stunned, Kreuzlied tried to exin, "You misunderstand... I''m not like my father..."


    Smack!


    A rock the size of an egg hit Kreuzlied square in the forehead, drawing blood.


    Why is this happening?


    Kreuzlied stood there, frozen, forgetting to wipe away the blood streaming down his face. As one of the key figures in overthrowing the nobility, shouldn''t he be respected and celebrated like Vennessa?


    But now, simply because he bore the Lawrence name, the very people he had freed were cursing him and demanding he leave Mondstadt.


    Father, was my choice... really a mistake?


    Boom!


    At that moment, the previously clear sky suddenly darkened with thick clouds.


    A massive shadow soared out of the distance, circling above Mondstadt.


    It was the nightmare of countless Mondstadt citizens¡ªthe dragon Ursa, whose name alone could silence even the most stubborn child.


    In an instant, the festive cheers in the za turned to terrified silence as everyone stared at Vennessa, the hero of Mondstadt.


    "E-Everyone, don''t panic!" Vennessa gripped the Windhawk Sword tightly and shouted, "Prepare the ballistae! Begin evacuation of the citizens..."


    But before she could finish, the dragon Ursa opened its massive maw and unleashed a st of ck and purple dragonfire.


    The once-crowded za, filled with celebratory revelers, erupted into chaos as the mes carved a deadly path through the people. Hundreds of Mondstadters were engulfed in the purple-ck fire, their agonizing screams filling the air.


    Unlike normal mes, Ursa''s dragonfire was impossible to extinguish. Once it touched someone, it clung to them like a parasite, burning them alive until nothing remained but ashes.


    Though Vennessa was skilled in swordsmanship, she was still only human. In the real world''s history, she had only been able to fight Ursa with the help of the Anemo Archon Barbatos.


    She had expected that, by sacrificing Eberhart to Ursa, the two would fight each other to the death. But now, it seemed Ursa was stronger than ever.


    "Mondstadt, your tyrant has returned!"


    Vennessa turned around in shock to see Lucas, alive and standing before her with a smile.


    "H-How is this possible?" Vennessa stammered. "How could you... still be unharmed?"


    "Oh, I forgot to mention," Lucas said, pointing to his chest. "My vitality... is five hundred and seventy-two times that of a normal warrior."


    Lucas''s sudden appearance was like a crushing blow to Vennessa.


    Looking at this man, who had be a living nightmare, her hands gripping the sword began to tremble.


    "I have to admit, your n was pretty good. If not for a small unexpected turn, Ursa and I might have really fought to the death," Lucas said as he slowly approached Vennessa. "Your biggest mistake was not finishing me off with a single strike."


    "I can''t lose because..." Vennessa roared, charging at Lucas with the Windhawk Sword. The de was now surrounded by swirling wind des. "Freedom never loses!"


    Lucas couldn''t help but smile bitterly inside.


    At this point, he felt just like a viin in a novel. If this were a story, Vennessa, as the heroine, would probably be empowered by some protagonist aura and defeat him in a dramaticeback.


    But this wasn''t a novel, and Vennessa wasn''t the main character.


    Out of respect for this fierce rebel, Lucas didn''t fight her barehanded. Instead, he pulled out a spear from behind him.


    The spearhead gleamed like a needle, silver and sharp.


    In truth, just based on his overwhelming physical strength, Vennessa was already no match for the current Lucas. Even more so, Lucas''s skill with the spear was no less than Vennessa''s swordsmanship.


    His flowing, graceful spear technique dazzled Vennessa, making it hard for her to keep up.


    But what distracted her even more were the desperate screams and cries for help echoing all around. Under the demonic mes of the dragon Ursa, both well-armed rebel soldiers and unarmed civilians were being burned to ashes without escape.


    Vennessa still couldn''t understand why Ursa and Lucas hadn''t ended up killing each other.


    The head of the Lawrence family was certainly crafty, but could his tricks really fool a dragon?


    Suddenly, the dragon Ursa swooped down, biting down hard on a rebel soldier. Before the soldier could even cry out for help, there was a loud "crunch" as fragments of armor shattered. Ursa chewed twice before spitting out a helmeted head.


    The head rolled across the ground a few times beforeing to a stop at Vennessa''s feet.


    "So," Lucas smiled at the dragon Ursa, "how does it taste?"


    -----


    Author''s Note: Well seems like some people misunderstood so lemme rify


    Lucas did not fuck his daughter...


    Lucas''s daughter and Vennessa are different people.


    And well we did not reach 1200.. Well I''ll upload the Chapterter if we reach it!

 Chapter 61: Villain Simulator, Ch 61

    <h4>Chapter 61: Viin Simtor, Ch 61</h4>


    "Burp!" The dragon Ursa opened her mouth and let out a loud belch. "A bit tough to chew," she muttered in a deep voice.


    With a sharp "plop," she spat out a crushed lump of metal¡ªa mangled mess of armor and shield that her dragon teeth had ground down.


    "Eberhart, you actually teamed up with the dragon Ursa..." Vennessa finally grasped the situation and muttered in disbelief, "You betrayed Mondstadt... No, you betrayed humanity!"


    "So what?"


    Lucas sneered, his body turning into a blur. With a swift motion, he spun his spear behind his back and struck with lightning speed. Vennessa couldn''t even see the attack clearly before feeling a sharp pain in her shoulder. The razor-sharp spearhead had already pierced through her left shoulder.


    As a seasoned diator who had endured many wounds, a stab like this shouldn''t have posed much of a threat.


    But unexpectedly, after being stabbed, Vennessa''s arm wentpletely numb, as if she had lost all sensation.


    This was the product of Eberhart''s years of research into the "Line of Death" technique used by spear witch¡ªa derived ability called the "Line of Injury." Unlike the Line of Death, which delivered deadly strikes, the Line of Injury acted like a pressure point technique that caused the targeted body part to lose sensation upon impact.


    Of course, this technique had its limitations. It could only be used effectively with needle-like weapons, such as the "Flowing Moon Needle" spear of Spear Witch.


    "What... what have you done to me?" Vennessa looked at her now-useless arm with fear for the first time.


    It was a natural human reaction. She might not have feared death, but this strange ability left her unsettled.


    "I thought about it¡ªkilling you outright would be too merciful," Lucas said with a crazed grin. "Since you love freedom so much, I''ll punish you by making you live... in the most unfree way possible."


    Before Vennessa could react, Lucas struck again, this time targeting her knee. Pain shot through her leg, and soon after, her knee also went numb.


    With her leg disabled, Vennessa stumbled and fell, kneeling before Lucas.


    The citizens of Mondstadt, who were fleeing in panic, witnessed this scene.


    "Lady Vennessa... why is she kneeling before Eberhart?"


    "She must be begging for mercy... damn it, wasn''t she supposed to be strong?"


    "We''re doomed... we''re really doomed!"


    "No... if we beg for mercy now, maybe Lord Eberhart will spare us!"


    One of the Mondstadt citizens, nowpletely broken by fear, fell to his knees, bowing repeatedly as he pleaded, "Lord Eberhart, we were wrong! Please stop your punishment!"


    Ironically, the first to kneel was the very person who had been shouting the loudest against Lawrence''s rule just moments before.


    Above, the dragon raged in the sky.


    Below, their former ruler stood strong.


    Around them, bodiesy in ruin.


    And in the distance, Vennessa knelt.


    Compared to this nightmare, their previous lives had been paradise.


    Then, like a wave of contagion, one person after another began to kneel¡ªtwo, three, then hundreds, all begging for Eberhart''s forgiveness.


    "Do you see?" Lucas shook his head in mock regret. "These are the people you liberated. Do you still believe they wanted true ''freedom''?"


    Vennessa stared in confusion at the masses kneeling before her. "Then what do they... really want?" she murmured.


    "Power," Lucas sneered. "They just couldn''t stand that the nobles had more power than them. If given the chance to be nobles themselves, they''d take it faster than anyone."


    "That''s not true... they are my followers!" Vennessa, still unable to ept this truth, protested weakly. "We swore an oath before the Anemo Archon together."


    "Unfortunately, they don''t follow you. They follow ''strength,''" Lucas said as he turned to face the groveling citizens of Mondstadt. "Vennessa has fallen at my feet. Are you now begging for my mercy?"


    The people, sensing a sliver of hope, hurriedly responded:


    "Yes... yes!"


    "Please forgive our foolishness!"


    "It was her... that woman who bewitched us into rebellion!"


    "Lord Eberhart! I swear eternal loyalty to you!"


    "Do you see?" Lucas turned his face slightly, a mocking smile on his lips. "This is the limit of their character."


    "You''ve won..."


    Finally defeated in spirit, Vennessa let out a bitterugh. "I should have epted your deal. What was I even fighting for?"


    Lucas knew that Vennessa was now dead inside.


    This fate, where her spirit was crushed, was far crueler than physical destruction.


    History often has turning points.


    In the real world, Vennessa had the help of the Anemo Archon Barbatos to defeat the dragon Ursa and overthrow Mondstadt''s old aristocracy.


    But in this simtion, Barbatos never appeared, and the ruling nobles weren''t entirely useless.


    Naturally, the oue was different.


    "As for your apology, I''m very moved. Unfortunately..."


    mes began to flicker on Lucas''s body, almost as if they were part of him. "I... do not ept."


    Before anyone could react to what he meant, Lucas raised his hand. With a loud boom, a massive column of me, nearly two meters wide, shot from his palm and mmed into the densest part of the crowd.


    After absorbing the powers of both Vennessa and the dragon Ursa, Lucas''s strength had reached a whole new level.


    The mes, burning at temperatures of over 10,000 degrees Celsius, didn''t even give the victims a chance to scream. They were incinerated instantly, leaving only human-shaped scorch marks on the ground.


    A few unlucky ones who were not fully engulfed screamed in agony as parts of their bodies were burned away. Some had entire limbs melted off, while others saw their charred internal organs spill out.


    Those around them stood frozen in shock. Several copsed, their legs giving way beneath them.


    "What are you standing there for?" Lucas calmly blew out the fire on his fingertips and smiled. "Aren''t you going to run?"


    Lucas wasn''t particrly interested in ughter, but this was a perfect opportunity to "cleanse" Mondstadt.


    The rotten nobility, the ignorant masses, the reckless rebels.


    None of them were worth saving. Better to burn it all to the ground.


    After all, if things had gone ording to his original n, he might have already defeated Ursa and returned to Mondstadt, ready to abolish the "First ss of Red Wine Decree."


    If only...


    But there are no "if onlys."


    Since they wanted destruction, he might as well help them along.


    Those citizens of Mondstadt, frozen in terror, finally realized what was happening and began to flee in all directions, their wails filling the air.


    Meanwhile, the towering statue of the Anemo Archon continued to gaze ahead, showing no sign of concern for the worshippers who had so long revered him.


    Having just enjoyed a hearty meal, the dragon Ursanded beside Lucas in her human form, her previously t belly now slightly bulging from overeating.


    "Hey, don''t burn everything to ash," Ursa said,zily cleaning her teeth with a w. "It''s a waste."


    In her eyes, the fleeing humans were no different from pigs headed for the butcher.


    "You''re one to talk," Lucas shrugged. "Didn''t you turn them to ash with your fire?"


    "Can''t help it," Ursa replied, frowning slightly. "I can''t control the strength of my dragon fire. Can you control how bad your farts smell?"


    Hearing such crude wordse from her otherwise regal face was oddly amusing.


    "And what about them?" Ursa gestured toward the people fleeing toward the city gates. "Are you just going to let them escape?"


    "It''s fine," Lucas said with a smile as he watched their retreating figures. "Let the bullets fly for a while."


    Mondstadt, a typical medieval city, was built on an ind in Wine Lake with only a single bridge connecting it to the maind. Thisyout was meant to protect the city from monsters and invaders.


    Now, that same bridge had be the only escape route for the citizens, who rushed to cross it¡ªonly to find that the bridge had been destroyed.


    Their only way out was to cross the moat, a wide stretch of water over thirty meters across.


    In desperation, many of the fleeing citizens jumped into the moat, trying to swim to safety. But to their horror, the temperature of the once-cool water began to rise rapidly.


    Soon, the surface of the moat started to bubble and boil, and the people who had jumped in screamed in agony before their cries were abruptly cut off.


    "I see now..." Ursa muttered. "Your power is so great that it can even boil the water?"


    "They''re probably cooked by now," Lucas remarked indifferently. "Why don''t you go try a taste? I hear Liyue has a simr dish called ''hotpot.''"


    "I''d love to!"


    With that, Ursa transformed back into her dragon form and flew over to the riverbank. She scooped up the now-boiled people in her jaws and swallowed them whole.


    For Ursa, this was avish all-you-can-eat buffet. For the remaining citizens of Mondstadt, it was nothing short of hell on earth.


    The dragon loomed above, casting her shadow over the city as her evil mes consumed it.


    The one-sided massacrested from day into night, and by the time it was over, Mondstadt had been reduced to a smoldering ruin.


    Even Ursa, who had gorged herself on the citizens, was now so full that her belly bulged, and shezily sprawled in the middle of the town square, asionally letting out a satisfied belch.


    The city had been nearly wiped out, with fewer than one percent of its poption surviving. Those who were still alive had been forced into the vast halls of the Cathedral by Lucas''s "guidance."


    Standing before the cathedral, mes flickered in Lucas''s palm. One snap of his fingers, and thest remnants of Mondstadt''s people would bepletely wiped out.


    "Go ahead and do it,"


    Ursa the dragon seemed impatient, saying, "If you''re hesitant, I can help speed things up."


    "I just wanted to take onest look at this city," Lucas said calmly, "I hate it, but I also love it."


    But at that moment, a figure suddenly descended from the sky,nding in front of Lucas. When he saw who it was, aplicated expression crossed his face.


    The person blocking his way wasn''t a stranger¡ªit was his own son, Kreuzlied.


    "Well, well, isn''t this Mondstadt''s great hero?" Lucas sneered. "How does it feel, ying a game where you overthrew your father''s reign? Is it fun?"


    "I... I was wrong."


    Kreuzlied shook his head, replying, "I was too naive. But these people... they are thest spark of Mondstadt. If you kill them all, Mondstadt will be finished for good. I beg you¡ª"


    "Kreuzlied, have you forgotten all the noble manners I taught you?" Lucas said coldly. "You don''t even want to call me father."


    For the first time, Kreuzlied lowered his stubborn head in front of his father. "Father, please... spare them!"


    "When you were studying abroad, you should have learned some basic economics," Lucas said, smiling as if having a casual conversation with his son. "I''m willing to spare them, but what will you offer in exchange?"


    "I... I..." Kreuzlied found himself at a loss for words.


    "Kreuzlied, before your mother passed away, she asked me to take good care of you. That''s why I spoiled you all these years," Lucas said with a cold snort. "You have nothing to offer in exchange because everything you havees from me. Without me, you''re nothing."


    "Then how about I take his ce in this deal?"


    Just then, a gust of wind suddenly swirled in front of Lucas. When the wind dissipated, standing there was a youthful figure in green clothes and a green hat, holding a lyre.


    Seeing the ruins, the scattered corpses, and the burning buildings, including the anemo god statue that had been partially destroyed, the youth''s face showed a fleeting expression of regret. However, he soon returned to a calm smile. "Mr. Eberhart, this isn''t our first meeting, is it?"


    Indeed, the young man dressed like a wandering bard was the same figure who had once left Lucas with three prophecies inside the simtor.


    "I should have guessed," Lucas showed no fear. "Anemo Archon... Lord Barbatos, as a former Mondstadter, I should bow to you. Unfortunately, I no longer am."


    Even the previouslyzy Ursa the dragon stood up, her mouth emitting ck mes as she watched the youth warily. "Is this a new enemy?"


    It was clear that Ursa sensed this person''s extraordinary power.


    "No need to be so tense..." Barbatos quickly waved his hands, trying to defuse the situation. "I don''t have the confidence to beat both of you."


    "Really?" Ursa immediately turned to Lucas and said, "In that case, let''s just eliminate this threat!"


    "Hold on!" Barbatos said, bothughing and crying. "I told you, I''m only here to make a deal."


    "Calm down, Ursa," Lucas shook his head. "He is, after all, one of the Seven Archons. He''s not weak by any means... So, what do you want?"


    "Strictly speaking, I shouldn''t interfere in this matter, but these people are still the citizens of Mondstadt," Barbatos'' usually yful face turned uncharacteristically serious. "So, I''m willing to offer something in exchange for their lives."


    To be honest, Lucas had some reservations about Barbatos'' strength. However, since Barbatos hadn''t directly attacked and was instead proposing a trade, it seemed he wasn''t nning to use force.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Well we did not reach 1200.. but I need to sleep so I am posting this anyways!

 Chapter 62: Villain Simulator, Ch 62

    <h4>Chapter 62: Viin Simtor, Ch 62</h4>


    "Oh?" Lucas sized Barbatos up and down, somewhat disappointed. "Too bad you''re a guy."


    If Barbatos had been a girl, maybe he could have triggered the effect of The First Cup of Red Wine.


    Wait, maybe boys could work too?


    Barbatos didn''t know what was going through the man''s mind, but the look in his eyes made the god feel a bit uneasy.


    "Please, don''t get any strange ideas," Barbatos said awkwardly. "This is just a straightforward deal."


    "That lyre of yours looks pretty good," Lucas stroked his chin. "How about you trade it for their lives?"


    "No can do, that''s something very important to me." Barbatos raised his hand, and a small object shaped like a chess piece appeared in his palm. "But I am willing to offer... this Gnosis in exchange."


    Apparently, Barbatos valued his lyre more than the Gnosis.


    No wonder when the Fatui''s Harbinger, La Signora, stole his Gnosis, Barbatos didn''t seem too upset about it.


    "If I''m not mistaken, this is the symbol of a god," Lucas sneered. "You''re really fine giving something like this to a viin like me?"


    "If Mondstadt''s people are wiped out, then who would be left to worship me?" Barbatos shook his head. "A king isn''t a king because he wears a crown, but because he has subjects, right?"


    "Honestly, I''m not too interested in the Gnosis, but I''ll do you this favor." Lucas extended his hand, and the Gnosis slowly floated into his palm, dissolving into a radiant light that was absorbed into his body.


    At that moment, a system message unexpectedly appeared in Lucas''s mind:


    [Detected acquisition of a Gnosis. Hidden mission activated.]


    [Hidden mission objective: Collect all seven Gnosis.]


    [Reward: The host may make any one wish.]


    A hidden mission?


    Lucas was momentarily stunned.


    But the reward was indeed tempting...


    This wasn''t just about collecting seven Gnosis¡ªthis was practically collecting Dragon Balls!


    "It seems you''ve epted the terms," Barbatos sighed in relief. "I hope you''ll keep your word. If that''s all, I should be going now."


    "Wait a minute..." Lucas seemed to recall something. He spoke calmly, "You once gave me three prophecies. Two have alreadye true, but the third... will it really happen?"


    It wasn''t surprising that Lucas had his doubts.


    Not to mention whether his two children would ever attempt to assassinate him again¡ªgiven the current power gap between them, even if they hacked at him for three days and nights while he stood still, they probably couldn''t harm him.


    "Prophecies never fail," Barbatos shook his head. "As I said, fate is unchangeable. Even gods are but a part of it. You will inevitably follow your father''s path."


    "But..."


    Lucas wanted to ask more, but before he could, Barbatos had already dissipated into the wind, vanishing before his eyes.


    Kreuzlied , who had been in shock, finally snapped out of it. After all, he had just seen the Anemo God in person!


    "Kreuzlied, you saw what happened just now," Lucas said calmly. "It seems I have no choice but to spare them. However, you must agree to one condition."


    "Please tell me, Father!"


    Kreuzlied''s attitude toward his father had taken aplete 180-degree turn. After all, his father was a man who could negotiate with the Anemo God!


    "Carry on the Lawrence family name," Lucas said as he patted Kreuzlied''s shoulder. "Since you dislike noble rule so much, why not try it yourself?"


    Naturally, Lucas couldn''t kill Kreuzlied. The reason was simple: if he killed him, the Lawrence bloodline would end. The [Eternal Bloodline] ability could only reincarnate him into one of his descendants. If there were no descendants, what would be the point of reincarnating?


    "I... I fear I''m not capable," Kreuzlied replied, his face filled with frustration. "I can''t make them believe in me."


    "I''m not a great teacher, but there''s one thing I can teach you." Lucas smiled. "Do you know what the most important thing a ruler needs from their people is?"


    "Respect?" Kreuzlied guessed hesitantly.


    "Wrong. It''s fear."


    Lucas walked past Kreuzlied to the doors of the Favonius Cathedral. With a wave of his hand, the heavy doors turned to ashes.


    The fierce night wind rushed in, and inside the cathedral, Mondstadt''sst remaining citizens huddled together in fear. Their eyes were wide with terror as they stared at the shadow looming at the entrance.


    "Don''t... don''t hurt them!"


    At that moment, a slender figure emerged from the crowd, gripping a massive greatsword. Though her body trembled, her expression was firm as she stood between Lucas and the people. "I will... huh? Uncle, why... why is it you?"


    Indeed, the red-haired girl standing in front of him was none other than Eberhart''s daughter. She seemed utterly shocked that the man who had destroyed Mondstadt was the same friendly uncle she had shared drinks with in the tavern.


    "There are always surprises in this world," Lucas was taken aback for a moment, but then he smiled. "Tell me, why are you protecting them?"


    "Because my grandpa told me that protecting the weak is a knight''s duty!" the girl answered seriously. "Even though I''m not an official knight yet..."


    "No, you are now," Lucas replied with a solemn expression. "As the head of the Lawrence family, I officially knight you as the Dawn Knight."


    "I... I''ve been knighted?" The red-haired girl was momentarily stunned, then muttered, "But how do you know my surname?"


    Lucas didn''t answer her question. Instead, he scanned the remaining survivors of Mondstadt and said loudly, "By rights, I should burn every one of you traitors. However... my kind-hearted son Kreuzlied has pleaded for your lives."


    Hearing this, the surviving citizens'' eyes lit up with hope.


    "From this day forth, Kreuzlied will inherit the title of head of the Lawrence family, and you must all pledge allegiance to him as your new ruler." Lucas''s face turned cruel as he added, "Each year on this day, I will return on the back of the dragon. If I do not see the Lawrence banner flying high, well... you can imagine the consequences."


    Even without him exining, they understood the grim implications¡ªLucas wouldn''t hesitate to roast the city again if they defied him.


    With that, Lucas left the cathedral, leaping onto Ursa''s back.


    "Is everything done?" Ursa askedzily.


    "It''s done. Now I''ll fulfill my promise to you," Lucas said as he patted Ursa''s massive head. "Where would you like to eat?"


    "Just somewhere that''s not people¡ªI''m sick of eating them." Ursa stuck out her purple tongue in distaste. "Let''s go to Liyue. I want to try that ''hot pot'' thing."


    "Father!" Kreuzlied suddenly called out. "Where are you going?"


    "To a new life," Lucas waved goodbye, smiling. "Goodbye, my son."


    With a powerful p of its wings, the dragon rose into the night sky, gradually bing a mere speck in the distance.


    "Goodbye..." Kreuzlied whispered, watching the sky. "My beloved and hated father."


    ---


    [Entering text mode...]


    [Age 43: The burning of Mondstadt in one night attracted widespread attention. Many nations provided aid for its reconstruction.]


    [Age 44: You left Mondstadt and traveled across Teyvat with Ursa. To avoid drawing attention, you often asked her to remain in human form.]


    [Age 45: Mondstadt''s reconstruction was nearlyplete. As promised, you rode Ursa over the city and saw the Lawrence family banner proudly waving.]


    [Age 46: You visited Fontaine and tried the local delicacy, escargot. At first, Ursa disliked it, but after a few bites, she became addicted.]


    [Age 47: You learned that after you severely injured Vanessa, she became paralyzed and was cared for by the Church of Favonius. She passed away recently, but her body mysteriously disappeared.]


    [Age 48: You and Ursa went to Inazuma to eat sushi.]


    [Age 49: In Snezhnaya, Ursa won the local drinking contest and earned a lifetime supply of free alcohol.]


    [Age 50: Ursa started feeling homesick, so you returned to herir. You discovered she loved roasted chicken, so you raised livestock for her.]


    [Age 51: Ursa ate chicken.]


    [Age 52: Ursa ate chicken.]


    [Age 53: Ursa ate many chickens.]


    [Age 54: You noticed that your body was starting to feel weak...]


    [Age 55: The dragon Ursa ate more chicken.]


    [Age 56: Ursained that your roast chicken wasn''t as good anymore. Well, you were getting older, and sometimes it was hard to keep up.]


    [Age 57: You suggested that you and Ursa go on another trip. You arrived at Liyue Harbor, where you noticed an old man pouring wine into the sea. Curious, you approached and realized that the old man looked somewhat familiar.]


    Upon seeing this line, Lucas seemed to realize something and softly said, "Activate immersive mode."


    [Immersive mode activated sessfully.]


    The sea breeze carried a faint salty scent, and near the harbor, an elderly man stood. He appeared to be in his seventies or eighties, his face deeply wrinkled, and his back slightly hunched. In his hand was a half-full bottle of wine, which he was pouring into the sea as if in mourning for someone.


    "Sir..." Lucas calmly stood beside the old man and asked politely, "May I ask what you are doing?"


    As he got closer, Lucas noticed that the man''s eyes were clouded and blind.


    "Can''t you tell?" the old man said, his eyes vacant. "I''m mourning my son. He was a first mate, like many, lost to the sea."


    "Oh?" Lucas frowned slightly. "How did he die?"


    "Who knows? A storm, sea beasts, a massive wave... Every time he sailed, it was as if he was courting death," the old man chuckled slightly. "Perhaps, for him, death was a kind of release."


    "May I ask..." Lucas hesitated before continuing, "How many sons do you have?"


    "Two," the old man replied, lowering his head. "But I don''t remember the other one anymore."


    "I see..." Lucas paused for a moment. "Sir, may I offer a drink in honor of your son?"


    "Of course. He loved to drink. Every day he was drunk," the old man said as he pulled out a cup from his coat. It was finely crafted, though it had faded with time. "You know, his greatest wish was to have onest drink with his brother. But he missed out on so much in his life."


    Lucas looked closely at the cup. Along its rim were signs of wear, but faintly, he could still see the crest of the Lawrence family.


    "This was his favorite cup," the old man said, despite his blindness. He poured wine for Lucas and then raised his bottle, downing thest of the wine in one go. "To my son!"


    Lucas also drank his cup of wine in one gulp. He was used to fine noble wines, but this strong liquor burned his throat. In a voice only he could hear, he murmured, "To my brother."


    Then, Lucas pulled out a blue crystal from his pocket, the same one that Parsifal had given to the Spear Witch long ago. Even after all these years, traces of blood could still be seen on it.


    "For your son, so that he may rest without regrets."


    Lucas gently tossed the valuable blue crystal into the sea, where its brilliance was quickly swallowed by the depths.


    It felt somewhat like the scene in Titanic where Rose throws the Heart of the Ocean into the water.


    "Though I don''t know what you just gave, I''m sure he would have liked it," the old man smiled faintly. "In return, take this cup as a gift."


    [Item received: Golden Goblet of the Pristine Sea.]


    [Golden Goblet of the Pristine Sea.]


    [Category: Set item]


    [Effect (1/4): Increases water elemental damage by 7%.]


    Lucas seemed like he wanted to say something, but in the end, he remained silent, only whispering, "Goodbye, sir."


    "Wait a moment. You seem like a traveler who''s seen manynds," the old man said, slightly turning his face and offering Lucas a weathered smile. "If by chance, you meet my other son, tell him this¡ªhis father and brother have forgiven him."


    "He may not need forgiveness," Lucas nodded. "But I will tell him."


    Lucas turned and walked away. After a few hundred meters, he ran into Ursa, who was carrying arge bundle of food.


    "Sniff, sniff..." Ursa sniffed at Lucas and asked with a puzzled expression, "Strange, why do you smell like Ingobert?"


    Lucas realized something and quickly asked, "How do you know his scent?"


    "It must have been about thirty years ago. I got to know there was something delicious in Dragonspine," Ursa began to recall.


    "When I got there, I didn''t find anything tasty, but I did smell humans. I found a lot of corpses and followed the scent to a crumbling ruin. Inside, I found him. He was barely alive. Since he was a Lawrence, I saved him. But his injuries were too severe. Though I managed to keep him alive, both his eyes were already gone..."


    At that moment, everything clicked for Lucas.


    So that''s what the third prophecy meant.


    His father had been betrayed by his children, but he hadn''t died¡ªhe had simply left Mondstadt forever.


    And now, just like him, Lucas had been betrayed by his own children and left Mondstadt behind.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Well soon interactions with diluc and no! He is not getting gender bended ??


    Lucas needs bros aswell not just hoes!

 Chapter 63: Villain Simulator, Ch 63

    <h4>Chapter 63: Viin Simtor, Ch 63</h4>


    Over the years, Eberhart had been deeply troubled by the prophecy. Now that the truth was revealed, he finally felt at peace.


    He looked back toward the pier, but the old man had already disappeared, leaving only an empty wine bottle standing there, deserted.


    [Entering text mode]


    [Age 58: You and Ursa temporarily settled in Liyue.]


    [Age 59: Ingobert passed away of old age. You secretly arranged a modest funeral for him, concealing your identity.]


    [Age 60: You fell gravely ill.]


    [Age 61: Your vision began to deteriorate.]


    [Age 62: You went blind due to your illness. Fortunately, Ursa stayed by your side to care for you. She often said the same thing¡ª"Hurry up and die already, so I can eat you!"]


    [Age 63: After a lifetime of toil, it felt like all your burdens caught up with you in your old age. Your health rapidly declined, and Ursa no longer made her usual dark jokes.]


    [Age 64: Despite your blindness, your hearing became sharper. However, what you heard most often was Ursa sniffing around. That creature must have been sneaking food again.]


    [Age 65: You sensed your life nearing its end. Ursa held your hand tightly by your bedside, for the first time in her life feeling anxious about a human''s death. And you made onest request¡ªto be eaten by her after you died.]


    [You died from illness. Throughout your life, youmitted countless atrocities. Many young girls suffered at your hands, and tens of thousands were burned to ashes by your mes. You betrayed your brother, teacher, and father to seize power. Your sins were innumerable... Yet, your death was so peaceful.]


    [The dragon Ursa didn''t eat you. That night, a ck dragon was seen soaring over Liyue''s sky, seemingly carrying something. Some recognized it as the legendary dragon. Soon after, it vanished into the night.]


    [You have died, but the talent "Eternal Bloodline" has activated, and you are about to be revived.]


    [Eternal Bloodline (Blue): After your death, you will be reborn as an infant with your bloodline and retain your memories (this talent activates only once).]


    That''s right!


    Perhaps due to his immersion in the narrative, Lucas almost forgot that he possessed this talent. Although he would lose his previous power upon rebirth, he would retain his memories and the talents gained from this simtion.


    Even without the talents, simply retaining his memories was enough to give his reborn self a head start.


    "Who will I be reborn as?" he wondered.


    [The simtor will continue to generate the story until a suitable newborn is found.]


    [Year 1 after death: No newborns in the Lawrence family.]


    [Year 2 after death: No newborns in the Lawrence family.]


    [Year 3 after death: No newborns in the Lawrence family.]


    [Year 4 after death: A newborn has appeared in the Lawrence family. Father: Kreuzlied II. Would you like to reincarnate?]


    Kreuzlied II?


    Isn''t that Kreuzlied''s son?


    Good grief, am I going to be reborn as my son''s grandson?


    "No, no! That''s too confusing!" Lucas shook his head hastily. "How long will it take to find the right newborn?"


    [Unknown. This system cannot control the simtor''s story progression.]


    "Then... just keep running it in the background and notify me when you find one," Lucas said reluctantly.


    [Understood, switching to background mode.]


    As the system''s voice faded, Lucas opened his eyes once again. Before him, the stars twinkled faintly.


    Although he had just lived an entire life in the simtor, in reality, only a moment had passed.


    At that moment, he was sitting on a soft patch of grass. After a brief pause, he remembered that he was standing watch over a convoy headed to Mondstadt.


    "The endless stars... one day, I, too, shall be their ruler."


    Suddenly, a voice, deliberately lofty in tone, spoke behind him. Lucas didn''t bother to get up. Instead, he leaned his head back, just enough to see the sharp, petite chin of the girl standing there.


    It was none other than Fischl. Thanks to her rather t stature, her chin was easy to spot from below.


    Had Shenhe been the one standing behind him, Lucas''s view might have beenpletely obstructed.


    "Hey! What''s with that look in your eyes?" Fischl frowned slightly. "I feel like you''re thinking something very rude."


    "Not at all," Lucas chuckled awkwardly. "Miss, why aren''t you asleep yet?"


    "Foolish mortal! Only weak humans need to sleep to recover their energy," Fischl dered proudly. "As for me, I am in peak condition."


    "So, you''re here to keep mepany while I stand watch?" Lucas bluntly exposed her intentions.


    "I-I only came because you''re my servant!" Fischl blushed, sitting beside Lucas. "If we encounter danger, I''ll protect you."


    "Well, thank you very much," Lucas said gently. "The stars sure are beautiful tonight."


    You couldn''t see such a magnificent sky back in the real world.


    Before being transported to this world, Lucas had been a novice astronomy enthusiast, casually observing stars and constetions. However, the stars in Teyvat were entirely different from the ones in reality. He didn''t recognize any of the constetions here.


    "Yes... this is the first time I''ve watched the stars with someone other than my father..." Fischl murmured. Then, as if suddenly realizing something, she whispered, "Wait, watching the stars together... isn''t that something only couples do?"


    "Huh?" Lucas was startled and quickly added, "I didn''t mean anything like that!"


    "Hmph! And what if we were?" Fischl tilted her head, locking eyes with Lucas and smiling. "The bond we share far surpasses any that mere couples could have."


    A gust of wind blew, knocking Fischl''s eyepatch from her face. As it floated away on the breeze, Lucas quickly reached out to grab it.


    He caught the eyepatch but lost his bnce, causing him to identally fall on top of Fischl.


    Though he quickly braced himself with his arms to avoid crushing her, their faces ended up almost touching.


    The air between them grew still, with only the rhythmic chirping of insects breaking the silence.


    Just as Lucas was about to say something, Fischl slowly closed her eyes, her lips slightly puckering.


    Wait, what''s going on here?


    Sure, in such a romantic situation, it''s easy for a girl to feel a spark.


    Simply put... the mood was right.


    But what was he supposed to do now?


    Kissing her seemed too forward.


    But not kissing her... might be even more rude.


    In the midst of Lucas''s hesitation, Fischl''s soft hands suddenly grasped the back of his neck.


    "Idiot..."


    She whispered before gently pulling his head down for the kiss.


    Their lips met, a soft, fleeting touch.


    It was gentle at first, a hesitant, awkward meeting of lips. But then, something shifted. Fischl''s hand, small and trembling, reached up to cup the back of his neck, pulling him just a little closer.


    The kiss deepened, still innocent, yet filled with an emotion neither of them had expected. For a brief moment, it felt as though the world around them had disappeared. There were no stars, no sky, no camp. Just the two of them.


    When they finally pulled apart, the silence that followed was deafening.


    A minuteter.


    Lucas sat up slowly, his mind still reying the sensation of that kiss. Although Fischl had acted boldly, she was clearly flustered afterward. Her face was as red as a ripe apple.


    "D-Don''t get the wrong idea!" Fischl said, her voice defensive. "That was just... a ritual to cement our bond! You know, like... an exchange of saliva. Got it?"


    "Is that so?" Lucas touched his lips, smiling. "It was a pretty sweet ritual."


    "You...!" Fischl''s face grew even redder. She was about to retort when she noticed that Lucas had suddenly covered her mouth.


    Wait, wait, what was happening?


    The usually confident, dramatic girl felt her heart race. Could it be that this guy... wanted to take things even further?


    What should I do?


    After all, it was my own impulsive action that started this. Technically, if he''s getting carried away, I''m partly responsible too. But it was just a moment of impulse¡ªI''m not mentally prepared for this at all!


    Besides, the bond between master and servant... it''s basically the ultimate taboo!


    Then again, as the Prinzessin der Verurteilung, haven''t I always sought out forbidden powers?


    Lucas had no idea what sort of wild thoughts the girl he had his hand over was having. He had covered her mouth because he sensed something unusual in their surroundings.


    "Shh!" Lucas whispered. "Something''s not right."


    Just as he spoke, a faint purple light flickered from the nearby bushes, and several glowing purple orbs emerged.


    "Seriously... you''re getting all worked up over that?" Fischl raised an eyebrow. "They''re just a few ''Electro Cicins.'' These bugs might release Electro energy, but they don''t actively attack humans."


    However, before Fischl could finish speaking, she was immediately proven wrong. The dozen or so Electro Cicins suddenly shot out crackling orbs of electricity, aiming straight at the two of them.


    Lucas quickly pushed Fischl behind him, drew the sword at his waist, and with a swift movement, the sound of a dragon''s roar echoed as he sliced through the iing orbs of electricity, reducing them to harmless sparks.


    "Not bad at all~"


    A feminine voice came from the shadows, and a figure d in purple, with a hood over her head, emerged. Surrounding her were several more Electro Cicins.


    Though her eyes were covered by a ck blindfold, the half of her face that was visible hinted at a certain beauty.


    The most striking feature, however, was the gem embedded in her chest, glowing with an ominous purple light. This wasn''t a Vision, but rather a "Delusion," an artificial power created by the Fatui.


    Lucas, having once yed the role of "The Doctor" in the simtor, was quite familiar with it.


    This woman was a special unit of the Fatui sorcerer corps¡ªA Cicin Mage, skilled in controlling Electro Cicins to assist in battle.


    Ordinary Cicin Mages could control around five or six Electro Cicins at most. But the fact that this one controlled dozens indicated she was no ordinary foe.


    "Fatui again!" Fischl scowled. "These people just won''t leave us alone!"


    "Little girl, did you just say ''again''?" The Cicin Mageughed seductively. "So it was you who dealt with the previous group of Fatui trying to collect materials, wasn''t it?"


    Lucas couldn''t help but sigh. Fischl''s quick mouth had given them away¡ª in more ways than one.


    It was clear that this Cicin Mage was allied with the Fatui group they had already encountered.


    Now that their cover was blown, it was obvious that this woman could not be allowed to leave alive.


    Lucas hadn''t even realized it himself, but his thought process had subtly shifted. In the past, he might not have decided to kill so quickly.


    "Fischl, go wake the others," Lucas said, not turning to look at her. "I''ll handle this."


    But Fischl didn''t respond. Instead, there was a soft "thud," and she copsed onto the soft grass, unconscious.


    "Fischl?"


    Lucas was momentarily surprised but quickly noticed something else. A faint pink mist was wafting through the air, carrying a sweet, intoxicating scent.


    "This is..." With his Medical Sage talent, Lucas immediately recognized the smell. "Daigo Fragrance?"


    "My, my, you''re quite knowledgeable, aren''t you?" The Cicin Mage giggled. "That''s right. I''m here to take you alive. Maybe I can get some useful information out of you. This Daigo Fragrance isn''t cheap, you know."


    The "Daigo Fragrance" was an extract from flowers that, when inhaled, made one feel as though they''d drunk too much strong liquor.


    It didn''t take long for Fischl, still a young girl, to sumb. Lucas, with his unusually strong constitution, had managed to resist so far. Since the fragrance wasn''t technically a poison, his Regenerative Factor wasn''t counteracting it, but even Lucas was starting to feel light-headed.


    "You''re holding up well. Impressive," the Cicin Mage said as she confidently approached him. "I wonder... are you just as good atsting in other situations? Hehehe..."


    But at that moment, Lucas suddenly opened his palm and tossed a handful of seeds onto the ground.


    In an instant, the seeds seemed toe alive, burrowing into the soil. Soon, the ground bulged, and arge vine burst forth, quickly growing into a massive flower with a trumpet-shaped bloom. The flower began to suck in the pink mist, rapidly clearing the air of the Daigo Fragrance.


    "A Dust-Eater Flower?! How did it grow so fast?" The Cicin Mage looked shocked. "Are you a Vision holder, attuned to the Dendro element?"


    Close, but not entirely right.


    Before setting off, Lucas had bought some special seeds from a flower shop in Liyue to prepare for unexpected situations. Using his Dendro Archon Gene, he had the ability to make them grow instantly.


    It seemed his n had worked.


    With the Daigo Fragrance gone, his vision cleared.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Worry not I''ll post the extra chaps tomorrow and sunday so make sure to keep voting if you want more!

 Chapter 64: Villain Simulator, Ch 64

    <h4>Chapter 64: Viin Simtor, Ch 64</h4>


    "It seems that your tricks are nothing special," Lucas sneered as he steadily advanced toward the Electro Cicin Mage. "No worries, I can take my time ying with you."


    "Hmph! How dare you look down on me!" the Electro Cicin Mage snorted. With a wave of her hand, shemanded, "Go, my children!"


    Following hermand, a dozen or so Electro Cicins, as if receiving orders, swarmed toward Lucas.


    "Don''t kill him, my darlings," the Electro Cicin Mage crossed her arms and said smugly. "I want to have some fun with him!"


    Unexpectedly, the Electro Cicins flew right past Lucas, heading behind him. About ten meters away, an eerie-looking tree had somehow already grown without anyone noticing.


    The tree''s leaves hung down like willow branches, and its shape was quite peculiar. Not only did it emit a purple glow, but the leaves also pulsated rhythmically, resembling the flight of Electro Cicins.


    The Electro Cicins released by the mage were instantly drawn to the mimic leaves, flying around them as if performing some sort of mating dance.


    "This is a ''Luring Cicada Tree.'' Your Mistgrass only attracts male Electro Cicins, but this tree can disguise itself as a female Cicin and release pheromones. Then..." Lucas snapped his fingers, and suddenly, one of the vines from the Luring Cicada Tree extended, wrapping around one of the Electro Cicins.


    Despite being captured, the Electro Cicin seemed unaware and made no effort to leave.


    It appeared that, for these insects, reproduction was more appealing than food.


    "No! Stop!"


    Seeing her Electro Cicins being devoured by the tree, the Electro Cicin Mage''s face immediately showed deep distress.


    She had raised and trained these Electro Cicins with care, like her own children. Seeing them consumed, she couldn''t help but feel heartbroken.


    "How does it feel, watching the Electro Cicins you worked so hard to raise get eaten alive?" Lucas grinned wickedly. "Keep eating!"


    As if following hismand, the Luring Cicada Tree extended two more vines, instantly engulfing two more Electro Cicins.


    "I''ll kill you!"


    The Electro Cicin Mage, now blinded by rage, seemed to lose all sense of reason. She raised her arms, summoning several bolts of lightning that shot toward Lucas. "You''ve made me angry!"


    Naturally, Lucas wasn''t going to sit idly by. Moving like a specter, he effortlessly dodged the lightning strikes and appeared behind her in an instant.


    What made the Electro Cicin Mage dangerous was her ability to control the Cicins in coordinated attacks. But without them, herbat skills were fairly weak.


    Before she could react, Lucas grabbed her by the back of the head and mmed her to the ground with great force.


    The immense strength rendered her unable to struggle. It felt like she was being crushed by a mountain rather than a man.


    "Now, speak," Lucas said coldly, lifting her head by her hair. "What''s the Doctor''s goal? Does he know about me?"


    "I... I won''t say anything!" the Electro Cicin Mage gritted her teeth. "Don''t underestimate the resolve of the Fatui!"


    "Such principles!" Lucas sneered, forcing her to look at the Luring Cicada Tree. "Then watch closely as your beloved children get eaten one by one."


    The tree extended more vines, wrapping around several more Cicins. They struggled briefly before going still.


    "No... please, no!"


    The Electro Cicin Mage felt as if her heart was being torn apart. These Cicins were more than just battle tools; they were her cherished partners and children.


    Watching them get consumed, even a member of the cold-hearted Fatui couldn''t help but feel intense pain.


    "Still not willing to talk?" Lucas seemed to enjoy this form of torment. "For every minute you refuse, I''llmand the tree to eat another one. At this rate, you won''t have many left."


    "I..." The Electro Cicin Mage hesitated for a moment before finally giving in. "I''ll tell you everything I know. Please... stop."


    "Now that wasn''t so hard, was it?" Lucas released his grip. "Speak. What do you know?"


    "The Doctor''s ns are typically highly ssified, and as a mid-ranking officer, Ick ess to the full details. All I know is that there are some biological experiments being conducted on the Hilichurls."


    She bit her lip and continued, "Second, because the teams sent to retrieve materials suddenly went missing, the Doctor dispatched several officers to search for clues. I suspect you know something, which is why you were being tested."


    Upon hearing this, Lucas finally rxed a little. At least, the Doctor likely hadn''t yet learned about his actions.


    Though Lucas was strong, facing off against a Fatui Harbinger was still a bit out of his league. Opposing the Doctor would be the same as dering war on the entire Fatui¡ªsomething he wanted to avoid.


    "That''s all I know," the Electro Cicin Mage sighed. "Now, do what you will, but please... spare the children."


    She knew all too well that a ruthless man like Lucas wouldn''t let her live.


    "If I were to kill you, not only would you die..." Lucas said indifferently, "but I would erase all traces of everything connected to you."


    "You''re... you''re heartless!" she spat, ring at him. "Opposing the Fatui won''t end well for you!"


    "Haven''t you figured it out?" Lucas smiled faintly. "I said ''if.'' I''m not going to kill you because... I also work for the Tsaritsa."


    "What?" the Electro Cicin Mage was shocked. "How... how is that possible?"


    "It''s no surprise that you don''t know. My identity is highly confidential," Lucas said coolly. "I''m a dual-ranked senior agent, serving both the Tsaritsa and the Liyue Qixing, secretly acting as the Twelfth Harbinger, codenamed Viin."


    Of course, all this information was fabricated by Lucas.


    He had indeed considered killing the Electro Cicin Mage, but even if he did, the Doctor wouldn''t let the matter rest. The best course of action now was to ce a spy within the Fatui to provide him with intelligence.


    "I''ve never heard of a Twelfth Harbinger," the Electro Cicin Mage scoffed. "Kill me if you want, but you won''t fool me."


    "I only serve the Tsaritsa," Lucas said with a straight face. "My primary mission is to monitor the Harbingers. Recently, the Doctor''s actions have been suspicious, which is why the Tsaritsa sent me to investigate. I hold information on many of the Harbingers. If you don''t believe me, feel free to ask."


    "If you really are an agent of the Tsaritsa..." the Electro Cicin Mage''s eyes gleamed with suspicion. "Then you should know what Her Majesty looks like, right?"


    Though the Tsaritsa was the ruler of a nation, she rarely appeared in public. Only the Harbingers were privy to her true appearance.


    However, due to an ident, this Electro Cicin Mage had once seen the Tsaritsa''s true face, which is why she asked the question.


    "Of course, I''ve seen her," Lucas responded casually. "Her Majesty has the appearance of a girl around twelve or thirteen years old, with silver hair and snow-white skin. She''s incredibly adorable."


    "How could this be..."


    The Electro Cicin Mage was utterly shocked. The man before her had actually answered correctly.


    Honestly, it was undoubtedly a trick question. After all, in the minds of most people, the Tsaritsa''s image was surely tall, elegant, regal, and coldly beautiful.


    Some who had seen the Harbinger, La Signora, would even subconsciously associate the Tsaritsa''s appearance with hers.


    Who would have imagined that the real Tsaritsa would have the form of a young girl?


    "Judging by that expression, it seems you know I got it right," Lucas said with a smile. "I didn''t expect a mid-ranking officer like you to have had the fortune of seeing Her Majesty''s true form."


    "That... that might have just been a lucky guess," the Electro Cicin Mage retorted. "Then... do you know the true name of the Harbinger Tartaglia?"


    "Ajax," Lucas replied without hesitation. "That shouldn''t be considered a secret, right?"


    In the simtor, the "Doctor" was truly a veteran of the Fatui, thoroughly familiar with many of its secrets.


    Forget these simple questions¡ªLucas even knew what time the Tsaritsa took her bath and what positions La Signora preferred.


    The Electro Cicin Mage proceeded to ask several more questions, all of which Lucas answered fluently, seeming to know even more than she did.


    [The effect of The Liar''s Bane has activated; the target believes your lie.]


    "You really are a special agent of Her Majesty?" The Electro Cicin Mage was finally starting to waver, muttering, "Then why haven''t you killed me? If I remain alive, won''t your identity be exposed?"


    "I told you, I''m investigating the Doctor''s activities and need an undercover agent," Lucas reached into the back of the Electro Cicin Mage''s cor, smiling. "And I think you might be the perfect candidate."


    The sudden gesture sent a shiver through the Electro Cicin Mage''s entire body.


    After all, the implication behind the action was far too obvious.


    Especially since his hand was moving up and down her spine, as if ying some kind of instrument.


    "You..." the Electro Cicin Mage''s voice dropped slightly. "What are you trying to do to me?"


    "Of course..." Lucas whispered into her ear, "I''m about to do something bad."


    What to do?


    What can I do?


    I can''t beat him in a fight, and there''s no point in running...


    Might as well surrender.


    Besides, this guy is pretty handsome, and he''s an important subordinate of Her Majesty. Submitting to him might not be such a bad thing.


    However, just as the Electro Cicin Mage''s thoughts began to wander, Lucas withdrew his hand from her cor.


    "All done."


    Wait, it''s already over?


    The Electro Cicin Mage turned her head, her face slightly flushed. "What... what did you do?"


    "I nted a ''Horsehair Worm Flower'' seed in your body," Lucas said with a sinister grin. "If you ever intend to reveal my identity, I''ll activate it immediately. The Horsehair Worm Flower will rapidly grow inside your intestines, slowly tormenting you, and eventually... boom, your stomach will swell and burst, sprouting a flower!"


    The Electro Cicin Mage broke into a cold sweat, especially after Lucas made the "boom" sound, which startled her into crying out.


    Given his control over the dendro element, it wouldn''t be hard for him to do such a thing.


    "So, are you willing to be my spy? I promise, your future within the Fatui will be bright." Lucas pped his hands. "If you refuse, you might just split open right now."


    Split open, not leave.


    "I... I''m willing!" the Electro Cicin Mage nodded, saying, "After all, I''m already serving Her Majesty."


    Though the statement was true, it sounded more like self-constion at this moment.


    "Stand up," Lucas''s icy demeanor shifted to a warm smile as he extended a hand toward the Electro Cicin Mage. "From now on, we''re allies."


    The Electro Cicin Mage hesitated for a moment but eventually took his hand. It was warm, yet a bit rough.


    Strangely, the gentle smile on his face didn''t seem fake at all. It was hard to believe that this was the same evil man from moments before.


    The codename "Viin" truly suited him well.


    "Oh, by the way," Lucas suddenly remembered something, "what''s your name? You Electro Cicin Mages all look pretty simr; I don''t want to mistake you for someone else."


    The Electro Cicin Mage removed her hood and mask, revealing her true face, and softly said, "My name is... Lyudm."


    Upon seeing Lyudm''s face, Lucas couldn''t help but cover his mouth and chuckle.


    "What''s so funny?" Lyudm blushed. "My mother gave me this name!"


    "It''s not your name, it''s your appearance," Lucas said, finally stopping hisughter. "I thought you''d look more mature, but you''re just a little girl."


    "You!"


    Lyudm''s face turned bright red with anger as she quickly pulled her hood back up. "I... I need to go. If I''mte in reporting, the Doctor might get suspicious."


    "Wait, you forgot something."


    With a wave of Lucas''s hand, the leaves of the Luring Cicada Tree instantly withered, and to Lyudm''s surprise, the Electro Cicins that had been wrapped in the vines werepletely unharmed, flying back to her side.


    "They''re all safe!" Lyudm smiled with relief, but quickly became puzzled. "Why... why did you do this?"


    "You''re my person now, and your Electro Cicins are part of my power," Lucas said with a smile. "Hurry and go. And remember, if a third person finds out about today... you know the consequences."


    Lyudm felt a chill down her spine. To say such chilling words with such a warm smile¡ªthis man was truly a senior double agent of the Tsaritsa and the Liyue Qixing!


    ...


    "Mmm..."


    It wasn''t clear how much time had passed before Fischl slowly woke up. She quickly sat up, startled. "An enemy attack! There''s... huh?"


    Everything around her seemed normal. The chirping of insects and the moonlight were as if nothing had happened at all.


    "You''re awake?" Lucas, sitting beside her, smiled. "What''s the matter? Did you have a bad dream?"


    "Strange..." Fischl furrowed her brows. "I could''ve sworn I saw a Fatui invader."


    "That must''ve been a dream," Lucas said with a straight face. "Nothing happened while you were asleep."


    "Was it really just a dream?"


    As Fischl remained puzzled, a dark shadow suddenly swooped down from the sky andnded on her shoulder¡ªit was her familiar, Oz.


    "Oz, you''ve returned," Fischl resumed her usual dramatic manner and asked, "Oh, my eyes and ears, did you spot any enemies nearby?"


    Lucas frowned slightly. He hadpletely forgotten about Fischl''s ever-present familiar. If Oz had been patrolling the area, there was a chance he had witnessed everything that happened between him and Lyudm.


    ---


    Author''s Note: The Bullshit-no-jutsu is strong with this one....

 Chapter 65: Villain Simulator, Ch 65

    <h4>Chapter 65: Viin Simtor, Ch 65</h4>


    Oz did not immediately answer Fischl''s question. His small beady eyes nced at Lucas before responding respectfully, "Mydy, I did not see anything suspicious."


    "So, it was just a dream after all," Fischl yawnedzily, "Oz, this princess will retire for the night. Stay with Lucas and keep watch for a while longer."


    "Yes, mydy." Oz flew onto Lucas''s shoulder, nodded towards Fischl, and said, "Sweet dreams to you."


    Once Fischl''s figure hadpletely disappeared, Lucas whispered, "Why did you hide the truth for me? Aren''t you afraid I might be a bad person?"


    "I''m merely a familiar; human concepts of good and evil have nothing to do with me," Oz responded calmly. "I know that you protected mydy and treat her well. That''s enough for me."


    "You''re quite smart," Lucas nodded. "Smarter than many humans."


    "No offense, but... could it be that some humans are just too foolish?" Oz remarked indifferently.


    This made Lucas chuckle.


    Though thement was somewhat mocking, considering the fallen nobles, ignorantmoners, and reckless rebels he had seen in the simtor, it didn''t seem wrong at all.


    ---


    Mondstadt, Goth Grand Hotel.


    The hotel''s owner was Ludwig Goth. While the Goth name wasn''t noble, it had quite a bit of history in Mondstadt.


    The Goth family had been in the inn and banquet business for generations, starting with the modest Morning Breeze Inn, which eventually grew into one of thergest establishments in Mondstadt, the Goth Grand Hotel.


    However, in recent years, business hadn''t been great for the hotel, which catered mainly to nobles and the wealthy. The Gunnhildr family promoted frugality, the Lawrence family, though still aristocratic, had long since declined andcked the financial resources. As for the Ragnvindr family, Master Diluc was wealthy, owning many properties in Mondstadt, so he had no need for a hotel.


    Yet, recently, Goth Grand Hotel had struck a major deal¡ªthe entire hotel had been "indefinitely" booked by the Fatui. The reason? They were apparently dissatisfied with the amodations provided by the Knights of Favonius.


    Initially, the hotel''s owner, Goth, refused the deal, since the hotel''s mission was to serve the people of Mondstadt. But ultimately, he caved... because they were paying far too much.


    At that moment, in one of the VIP rooms, the third Harbinger of the Fatui, "The Doctor," had just finished receiving a mission report from her subordinates.


    That''s right, she had arrived in Mondstadt along with La Signora and Scaramouche. Her reason? "To conduct some necessary research."


    "So, Lyudm..." The Doctor, sitting in her chair, stood up with a slight frown. "You didn''t manage to gather any information either?"


    "My deepest apologies, Doctor," Lyudm replied with her head bowed. "I used the Electro Cicins to search the target area, but found nothing."


    She tried to remain calm, knowing the Doctor was known for her ruthless methods. If her role as a double agent were exposed, her end would be equally brutal.


    "Lyudm, you know I hold you in high regard and wish to promote you," the Doctor said, walking up to her and cing a hand on her shoulder. "Don''t disappoint me again."


    "I understand!" Lyudm bowed her head even lower, struggling to hide her nervousness.


    "Go rest now," the Doctor waved dismissively. "I''ll summon you if needed."


    "Yes!" Lyudm sighed in relief and quickly turned to leave, but she overheard the Doctor muttering to herself, "Time is running out. I mustplete this before the Tsaritsa finds out..."


    Lyudm felt a chill run through her.


    Could it really be true, as the Twelfth Harbinger, "The Viin," had said? That the Doctor harbored treacherous thoughts against the Tsaritsa?


    This eased her guilt a little. After all, the Fatui served the Tsaritsa, not the Harbingers.


    Distracted by her thoughts, Lyudm exited the room, not noticing where she was going until her head bumped into something soft.


    In front of her stood a tall, cold, and beautiful woman. What she had bumped into was self-evident.


    "My deepest apologies, Lady La Signora!" Lyudm quickly stepped back and bowed. "I was careless."


    Lyudm wasn''t too familiar with La Signora, who had only recently arrived in Mondstadt, but she had heard that the woman was quick-tempered and arrogant¡ªa figure not to be trifled with.


    As Lyudm braced for a scolding, La Signora merely nced at her and said indifferently, "No matter. Just be careful next time... And while Fatui doesn''t prohibit members from having romantic rtionships, do take care to straighten your clothes after getting intimate."


    "Huh?" Lyudm finally realized what had happened. Lucas had slipped his hand inside her cor earlier, leaving noticeable creases that she had forgotten to fix.


    She considered exining but then realized that doing so might expose "The Viin''s" identity, so she blushed and said, "I... I understand! Thank you for the reminder."


    La Signora paid her no further attention and entered the Doctor''s room. Lyudm, meanwhile, couldn''t help but feel puzzled.


    Why had La Signora noticed that someone had touched her cor, yet the Doctor, also a woman, hadpletely missed it?


    Could it be that La Signora had once experienced a simr situation, where a lover had slipped a hand into her cor?


    Impossible.


    Lyudm shook her head, dismissing the thought.


    Such a perfect woman¡ªno man could be worthy of her.


    ---


    "Well, if it isn''t Miss La Signora."


    As La Signora walked into the room, the Doctor''s beautiful yet unlikable face twisted into a malicious smile. "Coming to see me sote¡ªdo you have something on your mind?"


    La Signora frowned. She clearly disliked the Doctor but restrained her disgust as she said, "This is about Her Majesty''s mission."


    "The mission to collect Gnosis?" the Doctor rubbed her chin. "Then you should be looking for the Anemo Archon, Barbatos. What use am I to you?"


    "If I could find him, I wouldn''t need toe to you," La Signora shot her a re. "Unlike the gods of other nations, Barbatos hasn''t appeared in ages. But since no new god has taken his ce, that means he must still be in this world. I suspect he''s hiding right here in Mondstadt."


    The Doctor shook her head. "Mondstadt has thousands of citizens. Finding a hidden god among them won''t be easy."


    "That''s why I don''t n to search," La Signora sneered. "I n to lure him out. You must have some ideas."


    "I do have a few toys that might work, but..." the Doctor''s tone shifted. "Helping you¡ªwhat''s in it for me?"


    La Signora held up two fingers. "You can take 20% of the credit for this mission."


    "30%," the Doctor countered.


    "Tch..." La Signora clicked her tongue. "Fine, 30%."


    After La Signora left, the Doctor turned and carefully took a sealed box from her drawer, a twisted smile on her face. "Don''t disappoint me, my little darling."


    ---


    The next day.


    It seemed the events of the previous night had gone unnoticed by anyone.


    The convoy continued its journey and by noon, they were passing by arge vineyard, surrounded by an endless expanse of orchards.


    The grapes looked bountiful, thick-skinned and small¡ªideal for winemaking.


    Naturally, such orchards were located in well-lit areas, and by noon, the convoy members were parched under the sun.


    Lucas, leading the group, pulled his hood over his head to block the sunlight.


    At the entrance of the vineyard stood a young man with light hair, who appeared to have been waiting for them. As the convoy approached, he stepped forward, bowed slightly, and said, "Please stop for a moment. I am Elzer, the steward of the Dawn Winery. May I ask, are you Mr. Lucas?"


    "That''s me," Lucas nodded. "Is something the matter?"


    Dawn Winery?


    It was one of the most renowned wineries, not just in Mondstadt, but in all of Teyvat, and its owner was none other than Mondstadt''s wealthiest man, Diluc Ragnvindr.


    "Yes, the Yuheng of Liyue, Master Keqing, has written a letter requesting that the Dawn Winery provide you with some rest and refreshment," Elzer said politely. "A feast has already been prepared inside. Please, make yourselves at home."


    The group, having traveled for two days and even been kidnapped by Hilichurls, was weary. Hearing Elzer''s words, their spirits lifted.


    "Brother Lucas, let''s take a break," Zhang Luo chimed in. "This is indeed the Dawn Winery, and I''ve met Mr. Elzer before. There''s no problem."


    "Very well, then. We''ll ept your hospitality," Lucas agreed, dismounting first. "Everyone, take some rest."


    Lucas walked up to Elzer and removed his hood, revealing his face. "Lead the way."


    But the moment Elzer saw Lucas''s face, a sh of surprise crossed his eyes.


    "Is something wrong?" Lucas asked, puzzled. "Is there something on my face?"


    "N-No, not at all." Elzer quicklyposed himself and shook his head. "A maid will guide you to the dining room. I must take my leave for now."


    With that, Elzer bowed slightly and hurried off.


    "What an arrogant steward..." Fischl, who had just stepped out of the carriage, crossed her arms and huffed. "He acts so high and mighty."


    "Miss Fischl, surely you know," Zhang Luo said seriously. "Mr. Elzer is not just a steward. His other role is as the chairman of Mondstadt''s Wine Guild."


    "I... I don''t even like wine," Fischl''s face flushed as she stammered. "Why would I need to know who he is?"


    "So, this is the winery owned by Master Diluc?" Lucas was curious. "I wonder if we''ll have lunch with him?"


    "That''s unlikely," Zhang Luo replied regretfully. "Master Diluc hates socializing. Many officials and nobles have tried to dine with him¡ªsome even offeringrge sums just to share a meal and learn some business insights."


    Wow, lunch with Diluc? This guy is practically the Warren Buffett of Teyvat!


    ---


    While Lucas and his group headed to the dining hall, Elzer had already entered a study.


    Inside the study, a tall young man in a robe was reading at a desk. His handsome features and long, fiery red hair, tied in a ponytail, made him stand out.


    This man was none other than Diluc, the owner of Dawn Winery and the undisputed leader of Mondstadt''s wine industry.


    "What is it?" Diluc asked without looking up.


    "Master Diluc..." Elzer spoke respectfully. "The people Master Keqing mentioned have arrived."


    "You don''t need to report such things to me," Diluc said, still disinterested. "Just take good care of them. Don''t forget to send them some fine wine as a gift."


    "No, there''s something important I must tell you!" Elzer said urgently. "The leader of that convoy, Lucas... his appearance..."


    After hearing Elzer''s words, Diluc, normallyposed, showed a rare expression of surprise. He immediately stood up. "Are you sure? You didn''t mistake him?"


    "Master Diluc, though my skills are limited, I''m rarely wrong when recognizing faces," Elzer said confidently. "If not an exact match, then at least an 80 to 90 percent resemnce."


    "Hmm, this is interesting," Diluc said thoughtfully. "I understand. You may go. I''ll prepare and meet this... Lucas."


    At this moment, Lucas had no idea that he had caught the attention of a very important figure.


    In the dining room of Dawn Winery...


    A long table was filled with a variety of sumptuous dishes, but the guards and escorts, who were used to life on the road, were not eating with the most refined manners. The previously quiet and elegant dining room had now be a bit noisy.


    "So, this is Mondstadt''s dandelion wine? It doesn''t pack the same punch as Liyue''s old baijiu!"


    "This Sweet Madame is absolutely delicious!"


    "But I still prefer the vors of Wanmin Restaurant..."


    Seeing this, Lucas could only smile wryly.


    Luckily, Master Diluc hadn''t shown up. Otherwise, this would have been quite embarrassing.


    "Hello, everyone. I hope you''re enjoying your meal?"


    Suddenly, a man with ck clothes and red hair entered the room from outside and said, "I am the owner of this winery¡ªDiluc Ragnvindr."


    In an instant, the room fell silent.


    After all, Master Diluc''s reputation wasn''t just well-known in Mondstadt; even many people from Liyue had heard of him.


    In the minds of most Liyue citizens, when they think of the richest person, their thoughts immediately go to the Tianquan Star, Ningguang, one of the Liyue Qixing. But if they were to name the second richest, most would think of Diluc.


    However, Diluc only gave the group a quick nce before fixing his gaze on Lucas. Walking straight up to him, he politely asked, "You must be Mr. Lucas, correct? Might I have the honor of joining you for lunch?"


    Well then, the wealthiest man in Mondstadt inviting him to lunch¡ªwhat an honor.


    Naturally, Lucas didn''t dare be disrespectful. He quickly made space and said, "Please, take a seat."


    "My apologies," Diluc said as he sat next to Lucas, speaking in a calm tone, "I had some business to attend to, so I couldn''t greet you earlier."


    "No need to apologize," Lucas replied, feeling a bit flustered by the attention. "Master Diluc is a busy man, it''spletely understandable."


    "There''s no need to call me ''Master''; it sounds too formal." Diluc gracefully sliced a piece of steak and casually asked, "May I ask, Mr. Lucas, are you a native of Liyue?"


    Though it seemed like an ordinary conversation starter, Lucas found himself momentarily unsure of how to respond. He finally said, "I''m from a vige near Liyue Harbor."


    Diluc narrowed his eyes slightly and continued, "And your parents¡ªare they in good health?"


    "They... have both passed away."


    Lucas felt puzzled. Why did this conversation suddenly feel like he was being interrogated about his family background?


    ----


    Author''s Note: Did it click in your mind yet... ??


    P.s I''ll post more chaps tomorrow! The numbers can increase if you vote more!

 Chapter 66: Villain Simulator, Ch 66

    <h4>Chapter 66: Viin Simtor, Ch 66</h4>


    "That''s truly a pity," Diluc''s crimson eyes shed with a hint of sadness. "I can somewhat understand the pain of losing parents at a young age."


    Afterwards, the two chatted casually for a while, mostly about Lucas''s family background and past.


    Of course, after going through several simtions, Lucas had developed some sophistication. He could answer Diluc''s questions fluently without revealing any ws.


    Finally, Diluc very elegantly wiped his lips with a napkin and smiled, "I think I''ve eaten a bit too much. Mr. Lucas, may I invite you to take a stroll around my estate?"


    "It would be my honor," Lucas didn''t refuse.


    Although Diluc seemed to have been probing into his affairs, Lucas quite liked this man. Moreover, making such a powerful and influential friend wasn''t a bad thing.


    The two left the dining room first, while Fischl, who had been dining not far away, narrowed her eyes suspiciously.


    "It''s really suspicious..." Fischl asked in a low voice, "Oz, did you hear what they were talking about earlier?"


    "Mydy, it was too noisy in the room, I couldn''t hear clearly," Oz answered honestly. "However, Master Diluc seemed to be constantly inquiring about Lucas''s family situation."


    "Why would he ask about that?" Fischl''s suspicion grew even stronger.


    "I''ve heard that in Liyue, there''s a tradition of ''parents''mand and matchmakers'' words,''" Oz said seriously. "Perhaps Master Diluc saw his talent and wants to introduce some female rtive to him."


    "That won''t do," Fischl gripped her cup tightly, furrowing her brows. "Lucas is this princess''s servant, no one can take him away!"


    ...


    Meanwhile, Lucas was being led by Diluc to tour the scenery of Dawn Winery.


    Whether in the game or from the information Lucas had obtained so far, Diluc should be a cold and aloof young master towards others.


    But for some reason, he seemed quite friendly towards Lucas, whom he had just met, as if Lucas wasn''t a stranger from a foreignnd, but a long-lost brother.


    The two chatted as they walked, and soon they passed by arge open area surrounded by practice weapons and training equipment.


    Although Lucas wasn''t a martial arts fanatic, he was a cultivator, and seeing such a scene, he couldn''t help but feel excited: "Is this your training ground?"


    "That''s right. My ancestor was influenced by the rebels of that time and became a ''Dawn Knight,''" Diluc nodded. "Although I''ve left the Knights of Favonius, I''ve never abandoned our family''s sword techniques."


    Lucas then remembered that in the simtor, Ragnvindr''s "ancestor" was the one he had appointed as the Dawn Knight.


    However, that was just a plot in the simtor and had no connection to reality.


    "By the way," Diluc continued, "I wonder, who was Mr. Lucas''s ancestor?"


    "Our family doesn''t even have a family tree or genealogy," Lucas smiled bitterly. "As for ancestors, I''m afraid they were just rural vigers."


    Diluc didn''t continue this topic but walked to the training ground and casually picked up a training greatsword. "Mr. Lucas, since you''re trusted by the Yuheng, your martial skills must be quite good. Would you like to spar with me?"


    Being able to cross swords with an expert like Diluc naturally excited Lucas, so he picked up a training longsword and smiled, "Then I''ll humbly ept your challenge."


    "Oh?"


    However, Diluc frowned slightly and said, "So you''re skilled in sword techniques?"


    "Is there a problem?" Lucas asked.


    "Nothing, it''s just that I''ve always heard that Liyue''s spear techniques are unparalleled in the seven nations, and Mondstadt has very few spear experts, so I wanted to experience it," Diluc''s face showed a somewhat disappointed expression. "Since you don''t know spear techniques, we''ll use swords then."


    It was only then that Lucas realized.


    No wonder Diluc had seemed so concerned about him from the beginning.


    So he wanted to experience Liyue''s spear techniques.


    However, speaking of spear techniques, Lucas had mastered some in thest simtor, but he had always been ustomed to using a sword, so he hadn''t practiced them in reality.


    Since Diluc was being so considerate, it would be a shame to disappoint him.


    Thinking of this, Lucas instead pulled out a long spear and said, "I''m not entirely unfamiliar with it. I''ve learned a few moves. If you don''t mind, I can give it a try."


    "Of course I don''t mind!" Diluc nodded eagerly. "Please, go ahead."


    Although this was Lucas''s first time using spear techniques in reality, holding the flexible spear shaft gave him a rather familiar feeling.


    When he looked up, Lucas was shocked to find that he could see the "death line" on Diluc''s chest!


    He had almost forgotten that this seemed to be a passive skill, and in battle, his actions would also be influenced by it, instinctively attacking the opponent''s death line.


    Although he was only holding a blunt-headed wooden training spear, spear techniques practiced to the extreme could kill even without a spearhead. If he didn''t identally kill Diluc, even injuring him would be troublesome.


    Seemingly sensing Lucas''s hesitation, the system promptly responded:


    [You can choose to temporarily disable the talent effect in the system]


    "Why didn''t you say so earlier?"


    [I thought you hadn''t asked]


    Lucas couldn''t be bothered to argue with the system and quickly disabled the effect of [Mystic Eyes Of Death Perception]. Seeing the death line on Diluc''s body disappear, he finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Here Ie!"


    Diluc seemed unable to contain his eagerness to experience Lucas''s spear techniques. Gripping his two-handed greatsword, he charged forward.


    Lucas dared not be careless and immediately countered with his spear.


    Although Lucas''s spear techniques had reached perfection in the simtor, with his current physical strength andbat experience, he couldn''t use such powerful spear techniques.


    He could only fight using the [Duelist''s Spear Technique] rewarded by the system. Fortunately, the special effect of [Duelist''s Spear Technique] was "When there''s only one enemy, attack increases by 50%", which allowed him to cope with Diluc''s overwhelming sword techniques.


    If this were a fight to the death, Lucas was confident he''d have a 70% chance of victory. Although Diluc''s strength was formidable and he possessed a Pyro Vision, Lucas had a bunch of misceneous skills and items on him, like a small mobile arsenal. In a life-or-death battle with a high-level opponent, he basically wouldn''t be at a disadvantage.


    However, this was just a sparring match, and Lucas couldn''t use lethal abilities like the "death line", so for the time being, it was difficult to gain any advantage.


    As for Diluc, he didn''t seem to be using his full strength either. Instead, it was more like he was... probing Lucas''s moves.


    Perhaps because he felt Lucas''s abilities hadn''t met his expectations, a hint of disappointment shed in Diluc''s eyes.


    This feeling of being looked down upon made Lucas feel quite displeased.


    Well then, let''s defeat you.


    Let you, the heaven-sent prodigy, also taste the vor of defeat!


    Lucas didn''t seem to realize the malicious thoughts surging from deep within his heart, and instantly reactivated the mystic eyes he had closed.


    The death line immediately appeared on Diluc''s chest. Although very small, it was clearly visible.


    Everyone''s "death line" is different. Generally speaking, the more one fears death, the more obvious the death line bes, and the easier it is to hit - the more afraid of death a person is, the more likely they are to expose weaknesses.


    Obviously, Diluc wasn''t someone who feared death, but Lucas''s spear tip still moved towards Diluc''s chest as if attracted by a ma.


    This move seemed to be beyond Diluc''s expectations. With his richbat experience, he knew this strike couldn''t be avoided, so he counter-attacked instead of defending, swinging his sword towards Lucas''s shoulder.


    If the opponent insisted on thrusting out this spear, he would definitely be hit by his sword de.


    Lucaspletely ignored Diluc''s attack and insisted on thrusting out this spear. With a muffled "thud", the greatsword''s de had struck Lucas''s shoulder, while Lucas''s spear tip had touched Diluc''s chest.


    However, at thest moment, Lucas still managed to withdraw his strength in time. Otherwise, this strike hitting near the death gap, would inevitably cause fatal injury.


    Diluc naturally noticed that Lucas had withdrawn his strength midway. He quickly threw away his greatsword and supported Lucas, his face full of concern: "Are you alright?"


    Although he had used a training wooden sword, Diluc''sst move was not to be underestimated. An ordinary person would likely suffer a shattered shoulder de if hit.


    However, Lucas moved his shoulder a bit and smiled, "It''s nothing. It''s just sparring, how could I get hurt?"


    The reason Lucas waspletely unharmed was, of course, due to the effect of [Diamond Body], which negated 90% of the damage. Otherwise, even if he wasn''t injured, it would have been painful enough to make him grimace.


    Taking his full-force blow without any injury?


    Diluc was quite surprised.


    But what puzzled him more was Lucas''s strange spear technique just now.


    This spear move further confirmed the guess in Diluc''s heart.


    "That''s good. It''s been a long time since I''ve had such an enjoyable fight," Diluc extended a hand to Lucas, showing a rare smile, and said, "Would you be willing to be my friend?"


    "Aren''t we already friends?" Lucas grasped Diluc''s hand without hesitation and said, "I look forward to your guidance in the future."


    ...


    Several hourster.


    After eating and resting, the convoy was about to set off again. ording to the n, they should be able to reach Mondstadt within the day.


    Diluc personally escorted Lucas to the road.


    "Lucas, these are some small gifts I''ve prepared," Diluc handed a rather exquisite box to Lucas and said, "If you encounter any trouble in Mondstadt, you can mention my name. I have some influence in Mondstadt."


    This statement was somewhat modest.


    "Then I''ll ept them without ceremony," Lucas took the box and said, "Will we have a chance to meet again?"


    "Of course," Diluc nodded and said, "You are my important friend."


    After seeing off the convoy, Diluc turned and entered the winery. He went directly to his study and twisted the pen holder on the desk in a specific pattern. After a series of "click-ck" sounds, the adjacent bookshelf slowly parted, revealing a secret door.


    Diluc opened the secret door and entered a hidden chamber.


    The chamber was quite spacious, neatly arranged with valuable antiques and rarities, weapons and armor, as well as some ancient books, ssics, and hidden wine brews.


    Of course, the most eye-catching were the portraits hanging on the wall.


    These were portraits of the Ragnvindr family''s sessive heads, starting from the previous generation''s head, Diluc''s father "Crepus Ragnvindr," and going all the way back to the first head of the family after the Ragnvindr n rose to prominence, the first "Dawn Knight."


    Logically, this should have been the first portrait, but one step further forward, hidden in the shadows, was another portrait.


    The portrait showed a handsome man with a hint of mischief, somewhat out of cepared to the other portraits.


    If Lucas were to see this portrait, he would be shocked to the point of his eyeballs falling out - this portrait was actually the one of himself that was taken away by Ragnvindr''s ancestor in the simtor.


    No wonder Diluc''s attitude towards Lucas was "strange" - the man in the portrait looked very simr to him.


    No, they were virtually identical!


    None of the sessive family heads knew who the man in the portrait was, only that he was the father of the first Dawn Knight and was skilled in spear techniques. As for his life story, name, or background, it remained a mystery.


    Lucas''s appearance was not only very simr to this ancestor but he was also proficient in spear techniques, which made Diluc more convinced that they shared the same ancestor!


    Diluc was an only child, with only an adopted brother Kaeya who had no blood rtion, and now they were practically estranged.


    He had thought he had no rtives left in this world. Now, encountering someone who might share his bloodline naturally excited him.


    Although Diluc was Mondstadt''s richest man, he actually had no interest in managing the family business. Rather thanmerce, he was more passionate about ying the role of the righteous "Dark Knight Hero," protecting Mondstadt from the shadows.


    So, the vast family fortune was more of a burden to him. Therefore, he had been looking for a suitable heir.


    Having a child of his own to inherit was a good option, but Diluc currently had no interest in romance and didn''t want to spend time raising a child.


    The butler Adelbert was like a brother to him and very capable, but he was still an outsider. Entrusting the family business to someone outside the family might not do justice to the ancestors on the wall.


    Thus, Lucas became the best target. As long as he could find a way to confirm their blood rtion and have him inherit the Ragnvindr surname.


    At that time, he could entrust Dawn Winery to him and be free to do what he wanted.


    Thinking of this, a smile tugged at the corners of Diluc''s mouth.


    "My dear little brother, are you ready to ept this ''great gift''?"


    ...


    "Achoo!"


    Sitting in the carriage, Lucas couldn''t help but shiver.


    "What''s wrong?" Fischl, sitting beside him, asked with concern. "Did you catch a cold?"


    "I don''t think so," Lucas said instinctively. "It would be troublesome if I had a fever. I wonder if they''ll check body temperature when entering the city..."


    "Check body temperature?" Fischl asked, puzzled. "Why would they check body temperature?"


    Oh no...


    He had identally brought in habits from before his transmigration.


    "It''s... it''s nothing," Lucas made up an excuse. "Just a custom from my hometown."


    "By the way," Fischl nced at the box beside Lucas, curiously asking, "What good things did Master Diluc give you?"


    ----


    Author''s Note: Sigh, Diluc should entrust his "burdens" to me instead...

 Chapter 67: Villain Simulator, Ch 67

    <h4>Chapter 67: Viin Simtor, Ch 67</h4>


    "I''d like to see it too," Zhang Luo rubbed his hands and said, "Given Master Diluc''s status, if he''s going to give a gift, it''s bound to be something impressive."


    "It''s probably just some specialty wines," Lucas casually opened the box. As expected, there were two bottles of red wine inside, but next to the wine, there was also a ck card. It had no extra decoration, just the name "Diluc Ragnvindr" written in gold embossing.


    "Strange," Lucas picked up the card, puzzled, "What''s this? A business card?"


    However, upon seeing this card, Zhang Luo''s face immediately showed an extremely surprised expression. He murmured, "This is no small gift. With this card, you can withdraw cash from Master Diluc''s ount at various banks, with an annual limit of... one billion Mora."


    Although this was a huge sum, Lucas wasn''t too excited. After all, in previous simtions, he had been a billionaire who spent money like water and a noble who lived extravagantly.


    "Strange..." Lucas yed with the card and said, "Why would he give me such a valuable gift?"


    "I guess Master Diluc has an eye for talent. He knows you have a bright future ahead of you, Brother Lucas, so he''s using this method to win you over," Zhang Luo analyzed earnestly. "You should use it without worry. This amount of money is nothing to him."


    [Ding! A suitable rebirth target has been found. Do you want to proceed with the rebirth?]


    Just then, the system voice suddenly sounded.


    Seeing that there was nothing else to do at the moment, and they were still some distance from Mondstadt, Lucas nodded and said, "Let''s begin."


    [Age 0: You are born into one of the three great families of Mondstadt, the Lawrence n. Your father is named Schubert Lawrence, and your mother is from a branch family of the n.]


    Schubert?


    Why does this name sound familiar?


    Wait!


    Lucas suddenly remembered.


    Isn''t this the guy who wanted to trade Mondstadt''s defense ns to the Fatui in E''s story?


    How did I be this guy''s son?


    "Um... can I choose another one?"


    [How am I supposed to change it? Do you want me to stuff you back into your mother''s womb?]


    Although the words were a bit crude, they made sense...


    You''ve already been born, so thinking about changing now is somewhat unrealistic.


    Fine, Schubert it is then?


    After all, in the original storyline, Schubert only came up with the foolish idea of coborating with the Fatui because the Lawrence n was in decline. In the simtor''s storyline, things might turn out differently.


    [Age 1: Although your father Schubert is not the head of the family, his position in the n is not low. Due to your affluent family background, your life is naturally carefree.]


    [Age 2: Because of your adorable appearance, you be the darling of the n. Your n cousin, E Lawrence, is especially fond of you. This beautiful girl, three years older than you, oftenes to y with you after her training and noble lessons are finished.]


    E has be my cousin?


    But thinking about it, it makes sense. After all, Schubert is E''s uncle, so by generation, they are indeed peers.


    Of course, because the Lawrence n in the simtor is different from reality and hasn''t declined, E''s personality might also be different from reality.


    At least, she probably won''t hold grudges at the drop of a hat, right?


    [Age 3: As you grow older, memories of your past life suddenly begin to surface in your mind. You start to gradually recall that in your previous life, you were actually the head of the Lawrence n a thousand years ago ¡ª Eberhart Lawrence.]


    [After regaining your memories, you begin to re-examine your life. In your past life, you were always restrained by your noble status, and even hurt many people close to you. Now that you''re born as a true noble, you decide... (This choice will determine the life goal for this simtion. If youplete the goal in the simtor, you will receive additional rewards)]


    [1. Be a kind and elegant noble who loves the people]


    [2. Be a rich idler, living a life of luxury and debauchery]


    [3. Marry E, support her to be the n head, and be the man behind E]


    [4. Be the Lawrence n head by any means necessary, and restore autocratic rule]


    The first one is definitely a trap question, not even worth considering. Pass.


    If I choose that, I probably won''t live past 10 years old.


    As for restoring autocratic rule, honestly, Lucas wasn''t interested. After all, he had already done something simr in his past life.


    Although it''s true that you can have absolute power, to be honest, it''s quite tiring.


    A lifetime of scheming and plotting, only to end up dying in a foreignnd.


    It seems that only the second and third options are better, but...


    "Isn''t E my cousin? Is it okay to marry her?"


    [It''s fine. Although you''re from the same n, your blood rtion is very distant.]


    [Besides, it''s just a simtor, what are you afraid of?]


    That''s right...


    After all, it''s just a simtor, just a game.


    Let alone cousins, even if it were siblings... ahem... Aether and Lumine, that''s a no-no!


    "Then I''ll choose the third option."


    Not only can I be a hands-off boss, but I can also win the beauty. It''s a win-win ¡ª I win twice, actually.


    [Little you has already made up your mind to marry E in the future and make her the next head of the Lawrence n.]


    [Age 4: You start to like sticking close to E, bing her little shadow. She also enjoys being with you. You know very well how to win the favor of this seven-year-old girl with your cute face and asional acts of coyness.]


    [Age 5: After all, you''re siblings, and you''re both children, so your intimate behaviors don''t make the adults think there''s anything wrong.]


    [Your father, Schubert, seems to be very supportive of you building a good rtionship with E. You can guess his thoughts ¡ª E is the eldest daughter of the n head, after all, and this helps solidify his position in the n.]


    [Through the n''s history lessons, you begin to learn about Mondstadt''s past.]


    [A thousand years ago, the dragon Ursa the Drake suddenly attacked Mondstadt, viciously killing nearly 90% of Mondstadt''s people, an event known as the "Fall of Decarabian." At that time, it was Kreuzlied of the Lawrence n who stepped forward and, with the assistance of the Dawn Knight and others, sessfully slew the dragon.]


    [Afterwards, Kreuzlied led the remaining survivors in rebuilding Mondstadt. The brave and fearless Kreuzlied worked tirelessly to develop Mondstadt, which had originally been in decline, once again.]


    [The Lawrence n has continued to this day, bing the representative of Mondstadt''s new nobility.]


    [When you hear this, you can''t help butugh, which gets you sent to stand in the hallway as punishment by the history teacher for "disrespecting your ancestors."]


    [It seems that the Lawrence n has fabricated this false history to cover up the truth of that year and elevate the n''s status. The uprising of the resistance army and Vennessa''s overthrow of the old nobility have all been erased.]


    [After all, if the people of Mondstadt today knew that it was the head of the Lawrence n who cooperated with Ursa the Drake to destroy Mondstadt back then, it would likely cause quite a shock to the current Lawrence n.]


    [And those who knew the truth of that year ¡ª only Kreuzlied, the ancestors of the Ragnvindr family, and those survivors in the church ¡ª have probably all forgotten this matter after a thousand years.]


    [Age 6: You often spend the night in E''s room. You cry and say you''re afraid of the dark, asking your sister to tell you stories to help you fall asleep. Who could refuse such an adorable crybaby?]


    [Age 7: Today''s noble writing ss has the theme "Future Dreams." The students all talk about their future aspirations ¡ª bing a schr with profound knowledge, a peerless swordsman, a graceful musician...]


    [You''ve heard E''s dream countless times ¡ª to be the future head of the Lawrence n and continue the glory of the Lawrence family.]


    [Her answer not only won the teacher''s praise but also thunderous apuse. When it''s your turn, your answer is quite shocking: "My dream is to marry Sister E when I grow up!"]


    [Your answer immediately causes an uproar ofughter and boos. The ten-year-old E, blushing furiously from embarrassment, runs out of the ssroom. At this moment, you decide to...]


    [1. Chase after her]


    [2. Stay put]


    "Of course, chase after her!" Lucas quickly replied. "Damn, being precocious shouldn''t be used in this way!"


    [Finding E isn''t difficult for you. You know very well where she goes when she''s in a bad mood. The abandoned stable in the manor is your "secret base."]


    [Forcibly entering immersive mode]


    Lucas slowly opened his eyes, and what appeared before him was a dpidated stable, but this ce felt oddly familiar to him.


    That''s right, this was the stable where he was born and spent part of his childhood in his past simtion life. He hadn''t expected that after a thousand years, this ce would still leave traces.


    A blue-haired girl was sitting in the corner of the stable, hugging her knees, looking quite upset.


    "Sister E!" Lucas started running towards E, though the body of a seven-year-old child was still something he found hard to get used to.


    "Stupid!" Little E red at Lucas lightly, biting her lip as she said, "Why did you make such a silly joke? I''ll remember this grudge!"


    Well, well, she''s still kept that habit, hasn''t she?


    It was only now that Lucas got a clear look at little E''s appearance. Unlike her adult self, the ten-year-old girl had her hair in twin tails, and her cute, snow-white face was like that of a porcin doll.


    "But..." Lucas shook his head and said, "I wasn''t joking."


    "What?"


    Little E''s pale golden eyes shed with a hint of surprise.


    "I mean..." Lucas reached out with his chubby little hand and pressed it on little E''s shoulder, smiling as he said, "My dream really is to marry Sister E. I... I like Sister E the most!"


    Hearing these words, little E''s pupils slowly dted, and the blush on her face deepened. She murmured, "But... but we''re siblings..."


    "It''s okay, my dad and mom are distant siblings too," Lucas shook his head and said, "Besides, isn''t it normal for nobles to marry within the family?"


    "I see..." Little E seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. She said somewhat shyly, "Actually, I also..."


    "Does Sister E like me too?" Lucas asked shamelessly.


    Little E hesitated for a moment before nodding slightly.


    The little girl''s adorable appearance made Lucas''s heart flutter with affection. Unable to resist, he leaned forward and gave her a quick peck.


    "Eh? Eh? Eh?"


    Little E quickly stepped back two paces, covering her mouth as she said, "You... you... you kissed me?"


    "What''s wrong?" Lucas tilted his little head, "Doesn''t Sister E often kiss me?"


    "Kissing... kissing on the mouth is different..." Little E said nervously, "It will... it will make babies!"


    Seeing her nervous appearance, Lucas couldn''t help but want tough. It seems the sex education in noble schools needs some improvement.


    "Lucas," Little E stared at Lucas seriously and said, "Will... will you take responsibility for me?"


    "Of course!" Lucas nodded and said, "I''ll take responsibility even if we have several!"


    "Then you just wait for me," A confident expression appeared on little E''s face, "When I be the next head of the Lawrence n, I''ll marry you!"


    E is a girl with a very serious personality, and once she decides on something, she absolutely won''t give up.


    This point has never changed.


    [Entering text mode]


    [Age 8: Your ssroom incident with E bes a joke among adults, but no one takes it seriously.]


    [Although you''ve lost the strength of your past life, you''ve retained your talents and spear skills. Of course, "The First ss Of Red Wine" is still too early for you, but you often practice your past life''s spear skills in secret.]


    [Even after a thousand years, Mondstadt''s custom of "revering the sword and despising the spear" hasn''t changed. Especially members of the Lawrence n, who take their ancestor Kreuzlied, who wielded a great sword, as their role model. His two-handed sword technique is famous throughout Mondstadt.]


    [Age 9: Martial prowess is an important criterion for evaluating young members of the Lawrence n. Almost all children begin learning swordsmanship from a young age. Because you have memories of your past life, your martial skills are on apletely different level from your peers.]


    [But to avoid drawing attention, especially to avoid overshadowing E, you''ve been hiding your true abilities.]


    [E, with her outstanding abilities, has be the focus of the n''s cultivation. The heavy courses and training have reduced the time you two can spend together.]


    [Age 10: Today is E''s birthday. You gave her a pendant as a gift, and she also got a rare day off. Because you haven''t seen each other often, she decided to spend this day with you alone.]


    [Today happens to be the WindBlume festival. You two went to the bustling market in Mondstadt together. To avoid attracting attention, you changed intomoners'' clothes, but even so, E''s outstanding appearance still made her a bright spot on the street.]


    [The WindBlume festival of today has long abandoned the old customs of a thousand years ago. Being chosen as the girl to throw the Feather has be a symbol of honor.]


    [As you look at the familiar high tform, your memories suddenly drift back to a thousand years ago. Those girls who threw down the Feather, and the fate that intertwined between you and them, seem like they happened just yesterday.]


    [Amidst the cheers of the crowd, you see this year''s WindBlume "princess," a blonde girl about the same age as E. Although she''s young, her beauty is on par with E''s.]


    [A girl chosen as the Festival princess naturally can''t be ordinary. Everyone raises their hands, wanting to catch the Feather and receive this blessing.]


    [Whether it''s fate ying a little joke or not, that Feather, after drawing an arc in the sky,nds perfectly in your hand.]


    ["Looks like your luck is pretty good," E seems quite happy too, patting your shoulder as she smiles and says, "Go up to the tform to receive the blessing. I''ll wait for you here."]


    [Although you cherish this hard-toe-by time alone with E, you also don''t want to ruin the festival atmosphere. So you carry the Feather, climb up to the tform, and approach the blonde girl.]


    ----


    Author''s Note: I know the progress in reality hasn''t been much but it''ll be after this simtion, p.s its E!!!


    Also the first R-18 on ch 69... its quite a long Chapter


    Stones if you want me to release them asap~!

 Chapter 68: Villain Simulator, Ch 68

    <h4>Chapter 68: Viin Simtor, Ch 68</h4>


    [Up close, the girl''s delicate features make your eyes widen a bit. You unconsciously say, "Tonight, wait for me in my room."]


    [The girl seems not to have understood the meaning of your words for a moment. You also immediately realize that you''re no longer the old noble who could do whatever he wanted in the past.]


    [Fortunately, you''re just a cute little boy now, and the youngdy doesn''t seem to be angry about your nonsensical words. Instead, she smiles and says, "Hello, little brother. My name is Jean, Jean Gunnhildr. What''s yours?"]


    Oh my!


    It''s actually Jean?


    How could such a noble be the princess of the WindBlume Festival?


    You should know that many nobles wouldn''t tolerate such public exposure.


    Although surprising, this isn''t entirely strange.


    In reality, the Gunnhildr n gained their high status in Mondstadt for being major contributors in helping Vennessa overthrow tyranny.


    However, in the simtor, history has changed. Vennessa''s existence waspletely erased by the Lawrence n, and consequently, the Gunnhildr n''s merits no longer exist.


    So, in the simtor, the Gunnhildr n is just an ordinary minor noble family, iparable to the powerful Lawrence n.


    This is probably why Jean became the princess of the WindBlume Festival.


    ["My name is Lucas Lawrence," you give your name. However, upon hearing this name, a clearlyplex expression shes across Jean''s eyes for an instant.]


    [Nevertheless, she quickly regains her smile, raises your hand, and announces to the crowd below that you have received the blessing of the Anemo Archon.]


    [Achievement unlocked: Anemo Archon''s Blessing]


    [Gained title: Anemo Archon''s Blessing (You already have this talent, so an additional boost is applied to its effect)]


    [Effect: Agility increased by 40%]


    Can title actually be stacked?


    However, the title "Anemo Archon''s Blessing" seems somewhat ironic on Lucas, considering that Mondstadt, protected by the Barbatos, has been destroyed at least twice by him in the simtor.


    Of course, this should just be a talent obtained from receiving the feather.


    Unlike a thousand years ago when Lucas stood on the high tform as Eberhart, only able to see fear and hatred in the eyes of the people.


    But now, their eyes show only celebration and joy.


    It seems that Kreuzlied has indeed developed this city into what he envisioned.


    Part of this is also due to Eberhart''s contribution.


    If it weren''t for the "Great Purge" he carried out a thousand years ago, reshuffling the nobles andmoners of Mondstadt, it would have been difficult for the entire country to be reborn from the ashes.


    ["Goodbye, Sister Jean." You waved to Jean, preparing to go back to find E.]


    ["Goodbye, little cutie," Jean nodded and smiled, "Perhaps we''ll meet again in the future."]


    Compared to the impressively valiant and capable Jean in your memory, the Jean before you seems more like an ordinary noble girl, delicate and endearing.


    No wonder, even the same person, growing up in different environments, can develop different personalities.


    ...


    [However, when you return to look for E, she has disappeared, which puzzles you greatly. After all, you know her personality very well. If she said she would wait for you here, she absolutely wouldn''t leave even if it rained knives.]


    [Soon, you find a ribbon on the ground nearby, which belongs to E. A sense of foreboding arises in your heart.]


    [You take out a pendant from your pocket, very simr to the one you gave to E. This pair of carefully chosen gifts is made of a very precious ma, which will attract each other no matter how far apart they are.]


    [You find that the pendant is pointing in a direction that is not towards Lawrence''s mansion, but towards outside the city. So, you decide to...]


    [1. Go home to report this matter to a trusted adult]


    [2. Immediately go to E following the pendant''s guidance]


    "The second one!" Lucas blurted out almost immediately.


    Even in the honest and simple Mondstadt, there are bound to be thieves with ill intentions. A pretty and cute little girl like E could easily be a target for human traffickers.


    Although she is quite capable, she is still young andcks social experience, which could put her at a disadvantage.


    [Forcibly entering immersive mode]


    [Target mission: Find E]


    [Mission reward: B-rank talent x1]


    At this moment, Lucas is in the busy marketce, holding E''s ribbon in his small hand.


    Recently, there have been frequent reports of missing girls in Mondstadt, which makes Lucas even more nervous.


    Due to the change in history, there is no Knights of Favonius established by Vennessa in Mondstadt now, and the process of registering missing person cases is quite cumbersome.


    More importantly, every minute wasted increases the danger for E.


    Now, he can only rely on himself.


    Of course, given Lucas''s personality, he wouldn''t just rush in recklessly to save someone.


    If his body were an adult... no, even if it were just in adolescent form, with a spear in hand, he could easily handle dozens of ordinary humans.


    But now, he''s just a nine-year-old child, with greatly reduced strength and speed.


    ...


    In a cksmith''s shop, Wagner, with his full beard, is using a hammer to forge a long sword.


    He is one of the top cksmiths in Mondstadt, but his shop doesn''t do very good business. The reason is simple: this guy has a bad temper and a very arrogant personality.


    He doesn''t show any friendliness towards customers, and if anyone dares to say there''s a w in the weapons and equipment he forges, they''re sure to get a scolding.


    Despite this, many adventurers still frequently visit this cksmith shop. After all, although the service attitude is poor, his weapons and equipment are all good stuff that can save lives.


    "Mister!"


    Just then, a crisp voice came from beside Wagner. He looked around but didn''t see anyone.


    "Damn it..." Wagner stroked his chin beard and frowned, "Is it haunted in broad daylight?"


    "Mister, I''m here!" A small hand suddenly raised up from in front of the counter.


    Wagner stood up and finally saw a little boy, not even ten years old, standing in front of the counter.


    "Hey, kid, this isn''t a ce to y. Be careful not to get your head smashed by a hammer," Wagner waved his hand rather annoyed, "Go away quickly."


    "I''m not here to y," the boy, who is naturally Lucas, shook his head and said, "I''m here to buy a weapon."


    "Buy a weapon?" Wagnerughed, "The shortest weapon here is taller than you. Can you even lift it?"


    "It''s okay," Lucas said, "I want to buy a dagger."


    "You''re not nning to use a dagger to scare other kids when you fight, are you?" Wagner sneered, "That won''t do. My precious creations will cry if they don''t taste blood."


    "I want to buy a new dagger as a birthday gift for my dad," Lucas widened his bright, big eyes,unching a cuteness offensive, "He''s a hunter, and his old dagger has be so dull it can barely cut through rabbit skin."


    Hearing this, Wagner, who had been scowling all along, paused slightly. After pondering for a moment, he took out a rather exquisite dagger from the cab behind him and ced it in front of Lucas, saying:


    "Take it, kid. I originally made this as a gift for my son, but... that fool can''t use it anymore."


    There seems to be some story hidden in these words.


    However, Lucas no longer has time to delve into it. He ced the bracelet he was wearing on the counter and said, "Thank you, mister. I don''t have money, so I''ll trade this for it!"


    "I''ll take a loss on this one. Deal." Wagner''s eyes nced over the bracelet.


    Although it looks like a gold bracelet, how could a child from amoner''s family afford such a thing? It''s probably just a copper bracelet with gold ting.


    To be honest, Wagner''s dagger is a fine piece that he put a lot of effort into crafting. It was originally intended as a gift for his son, but due to that "incident," he probably won''t have the chance to give it away anymore.


    The reason he''s "half-selling, half-giving" it to that kid is probably because Wagner was moved by this act of filial piety.


    "At least he''s a filial little brat," Wagner chuckled self-deprecatingly. "Much better than that fool."


    He sat down again at the anvil and began forging the unfinished longsword. Just then, a sturdy ck-haired young man came in carrying a stack of iron ingots. He ced them nearby and said, "Master, the new iron ingots are ready. Do you think I could try making the next batch of weapons?"


    "Schutz, your skills aren''t there yet," Wagner replied without looking up. "cksmithing is something you can''t rush."


    "I see..." The apprentice named Schutz sighed in disappointment. He casually picked up a bracelet from the counter. After a moment, he eximed in surprise, "Master? When did you save up money to buy this gold bracelet?"


    "It''s just gold-ted," Wagner said offhandedly. "Some kid left it here."


    "Master, this... this isn''t gold-ted at all," Schutz said, gently biting the bracelet. "I swear by Barbatos, this is pure gold!"


    "What?"


    Wagner finally realized something was amiss. He stepped forward and picked up the bracelet to examine it, his expression turning to one of astonishment. He rushed out of the cksmith shop in two quick strides, but Lucas was nowhere to be seen.


    "Master, this thing must be worth a fortune!" Schutz grinned foolishly. "Maybe we could even use it to negotiate with those nobles and get Brother Raphael out of jail earlier!"


    At the mention of "Raphael," Wagner''s face immediately darkened. He coldly said, "Don''t touch this gold bracelet. Wait for that kid toe back and im it. As for my foolish son, he''s in there because of his own actions. We don''t need to concern ourselves with him!"


    "I don''t understand. He just said a few words, and he has to serve over ten years in prison," Schutz grumbled indignantly. "All that talk about ''thousand-year lies'' and ''Lawrence being the real culprit from a thousand years ago'' - how could anyone take such nonsense seriously?"


    "Shut up!" Wagner red at him furiously. "I''ve told you never to repeat those treasonous words! If such talk spreads, it will absolutely cause a huge uproar. What, do you find our current life too peaceful?"


    "I''m sorry!" Schutz quickly shut his mouth.


    Although he still didn''t understand how some bizarre rumors could possibly shake the Lawrence family''s rule.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Lucas, guided by the pendant, casually drew out the dagger.


    The de gleamed coldly, carrying a hint of frost. Lucas''s face was faintly reflected in the sharp edge.


    He had initially thought trading a gold bracelet for a dagger might be wasteful, but seeing the quality of this dagger now, he realized it wasn''t such a bad deal after all.


    Soon, he slipped out of the city and walked another four or five miles. The pendant''s reaction grew stronger. Lucas continued searching and spotted an abandoned barn in a rather secluded location.


    At the entrance of the barn, a man was yawning, looking around with boredom - clearly not a verypetent guard.


    Inside the barn:


    "Boss, we''ve got a good catch this time!" A woman in her thirties pushed the tied-up E onto a pile of hay,ughing. "This girl was so easy to trick, she took the bait without any effort."


    "Mmph!" E''s mouth was gagged, but she still red fiercely at the people around her, her face full of anger.


    "My, she really is quite pretty," a red-haired man approached, a malicious smile on his face. "Let me inspect the goods... Ouch!"


    Suddenly, E raised her leg and kicked the red-haired man in the groin. The kick was powerful, instantly dropping him to the ground where he rolled in agony.


    "Damn this little wench!" The red-haired man struggled to his feet, raising his hand to strike E, but his arm was suddenly stopped.


    A man who appeared to be the leader grabbed his wrist, coldly saying, "Turner, can you afford to damage such valuable goods?"


    Turner reluctantly lowered his hand. "I got it, boss."


    "Why hasn''t there been any movement outside for so long?" The leader frowned. "Turner, go check the situation."


    Turner walked out reluctantly, still grumbling, "Damn it, I just wanted to cop a feel. It''s not like I''d take a piece off her..."


    "Un... Uncle..."


    Just then, from behind a nearby tree trunk, a cute boy no older than ten appeared. His face was tearful as he sobbed, "I... I''m lost. Can you help me get home?"


    A smile immediately spread across Turner''s face.


    To think a fatmb would deliver itself to their doorstep - such a cute little boy would fetch a good price if sold to the priests at the Favonius Cathedral.


    He seemedpletely oblivious to how suspicious it was for a little boy to suddenly appear in such a remote area.


    "Come here,e here!" Turner hurried over, putting on a gentle facade. "Don''t be afraid. Tell uncle, where''s your home?"


    "You... you need to bend down," Lucas said pitifully.


    Turner bent down with a grin. "Go ahead, tell me where your home is. Uncle will take you back..."


    Before he could finish speaking, he suddenly felt a chill in his chest. A sharp dagger had been plunged into his chest, blood instantly gushing out.


    "Let me take you home instead,"


    As Turner tried to cry out, Lucas swiftly pulled out the dagger and shed it across his throat. "To your final home!"


    This series of actions was smooth and fluid,pletely unlike something a child could do. Turner stared at Lucas as if looking at a monster. He stepped back twice, clutching his throat, before copsing to the ground.


    ---


    Author''s Note: 1 more extra Chapter, but can be increased to 2 if we reach 400 ps real quick!

 Chapter 69: Villain Simulator, Ch 69 (R-18)

    <h4>Chapter 69: Viin Simtor, Ch 69 (R-18)</h4>


    From between the gaps in the bushes, another doorman''s lifeless eyes stared nkly at him. The blood on his neck had not yet fully drained, clearly indicating that his death had been simr to his own.


    Who would have thought that such a sweet, angelic boy could so easily take two lives?


    Lucas swiftly squeezed through the gap beside the barn. His small, childlike body now became a rare advantage.


    Hiding behind a pile of hay, he observed the situation inside.


    Fortunately, luck was on his side. There was only one man and one woman inside. The woman wouldn''t be difficult to deal with, but the man looked sturdy and sharp, clearly not someone easy to handle.


    However, the most important thing was E. Seeing that she was unharmed, Lucas finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    A faint smile appeared on his face as he whispered to himself:


    "Now, who is the prey?"


    ---


    In the barn, E wasn''t the only kidnapped child.


    In the corner, seven or eight other children were curled up. The oldest was only about twelve or thirteen years old, while the youngest was just four or five.


    Of course, here, they had already lost their identity as "people." They had been categorized and marked with different prices.


    The younger children were to be sold as someone else''s child, while the pretty girls would be sold as servants or sent to ces of ill repute.


    As for those children who didn''t look as appealing, they would still be "put to good use."


    The woman who had kidnapped E was currently standing by a stove, brewing some kind of concoction. The cauldron emitted a pungent smell, and the dark purple liquid inside bubbled continuously.


    This potion could blind a child, making them more pitiable and thus better suited to beg. Blind children could earn more money on the streets.


    Blinding them had many benefits: it didn''t cripple their mobility, and there was no need to worry about them escaping.


    Of course, they could only make more money while they were young. Once they grew older, their fully developed organs would bring in another source of ie.


    "Let me see, which one should I choose?" The woman shook the potion in her hand, as if she were picking livestock at the market, scanning the line of children in front of her. "You''ll do."


    Like lifting a chick, she grabbed a frail girl and pressed her to the ground, carefully preparing to pour the potion into the girl''s eyes.


    The girl, sensing danger, struggled desperately, but her thin arms were no match for the woman''s strength.


    "Don''t be afraid, it won''t hurt much," the woman said with a twisted smile. "Such beautiful eyes... even blind, they''ll surely be lovely."


    Just as the potion was about to drop, a hand suddenly patted the woman''s back.


    "Can''t you see I''m busy?"


    The woman instinctively turned her head, only to find a young boy standing behind her, holding a cup of the same dark purple potion.


    Before the woman could react, Lucas sshed the potion directly onto her face.


    The scalding liquid poured into her eyes, and the intense burning pain made her clutch her face and scream in agony.


    "My eyes... my eyes... ugh!"


    Just as she started to speak, she suddenly felt a sharp pain in her tongue. Lucas had pried her mouth open with a dagger and poured the remaining potion from the cauldron into her mouth.


    The toxic liquid quickly burned her throat, and ck, foul-smelling blood oozed from her mouth.


    The horrifying scene stunned the children. Lucas nced at them and said calmly, "What are you standing there for? Run!"


    The children finally snapped out of their shock and scrambled to flee.


    At that moment, the leader of the kidnappers, drawn by the noise, rushed over. Seeing his subordinate writhing on the ground and the kidnapped children running everywhere, his heart sank. He shouted, "Stand still!"


    The children froze in fear. The leader pulled the woman up from the ground and frowned. "What the hell happened?"


    "Ah... there... was... a boy..." The woman struggled to speak, her mouth full of the poisoned liquid.


    At that moment, Lucas, who had been lying in wait, leaped down from the rafters, aiming his dagger at the back of the leader''s neck.


    This move should have been wless, but the leader, who was quite strong, sensed the attack and quickly dodged to the side.


    The sharp de missed its lethal target and only pierced the leader''s shoulder.


    Shocked, the leader saw that his attacker was just a boy. The pain in his shoulder enraged him, and he grabbed Lucas, mming him hard onto the ground.


    "Get lost!"


    Lucas was still just a child, and his strength was no match for the burly man. He gritted his teeth through the pain and rolled into a nearby haystack.


    "Trying to escape?" The leader wasn''t about to let him go. He rushed to the haystack, intent on pulling Lucas out.


    But just as he reached into the hay, there was a sudden "swish," and a pitchfork shot out from the haystack.


    The pitchfork moved too quickly for the leader to react, and his hand was impaled by its sharp prongs, leaving several gaping holes.


    "Looks like my luck''s pretty good. Sorry, uncle..." Lucas stepped out from the haystack, holding the pitchfork and smiling. "You''re already dead."


    He hadn''t expected to find a pitchfork in the hay at thest second.


    The reason he hadn''t bought a spear at the cksmith earlier was because carrying such arge weapon would have slowed him down. A pitchfork wasn''t a proper weapon, but it was more than enough to deal with this enemy.


    "You little brat...!" The leader looked at the wound on his hand, his fury growing. "I''m going to break your arms and legs and throw you out to beg!"


    Just a kid with a pitchfork...


    A kid with a pitchfork...


    Wait, what?


    The leader looked down in confusion. At some point, the boy''s pitchfork had already pierced his chest.


    Even in his final moments, the leader never realized when the pitchfork had entered his body.


    ...


    On the other side, E, who had been in despair, suddenly felt a glimmer of hope due to themotion.


    Could it be... someone came to save us?


    But who could it be?


    "E... sis..." Lucas, bruised and battered, stood in front of E, forcing a big smile. "I''vee to save you."


    The girl had always thought that the ssic hero-saving-the-damsel scenario only happened in forbidden romance novels.


    But now, it had be a reality.


    Even if it meant risking his life, he hade to save her. He really was the man she could entrust her life to... well, boy for now.


    "You must have been so scared," Lucas hurriedly cut the ropes binding E andforted her. "It''s all over now."


    "I... I wasn''t scared at all!" E retorted, still trying to act tough. "I knew you woulde for me."


    "Why were you so sure?" Lucas asked, genuinely puzzled.


    After all, he was just a nine-year-old kid.


    "Didn''t you say you will marry me in the future?"


    E raised an eyebrow and said, "If you don''t even rescue your fianc¨¦e when she''s kidnapped, you''d be a pretty pathetic excuse for a man."


    "Is that so?" Lucas smiled helplessly. "Good thing I came, then."


    "But..." E suddenly pulled Lucas into her arms and softly said, "Even if you didn''te to save me, I wouldn''t have med you. If something happened to you... what would I do?"


    During the time she was kidnapped, E had indeed fantasized that Lucas woulde to save her.


    But she quickly dismissed the thought. She''d rather endure harm herself than see him in danger.


    Yet, here he was! He had reallye!


    From this moment, twelve-year-old E made up her mind.


    No matter what, she would be the next head of the Lawrence family. That way, no one could stop her from being with her brother!


    "Let''s go," Lucas grabbed E''s hand. "We need to bring the other children back to the city as well."


    "Yes..." E nced back at the barn and frowned slightly. "Is there some kind of noise inside?"


    "It''s probably..." Lucas smiled faintly, "just some rats."


    In the depths of the barn, the woman whose eyes and throat had been poisoned writhed on the ground like a maggot, her hands and feet severed by a dagger.


    In the darkness, faint glimmers appeared. The hungry rats in the barn wouldn''t pass up such a feast.


    ...


    [Mission Complete: Retrieve E]


    [Reward: Talent ¨C Cloak and Dagger (Blue)]


    [Effect: Reduces the chance of being detected during stealth by 50%. Launching a sneak attack on an unaware enemy deals double damage.]


    [Bonus Reward: Dagger of the Unfilial]


    [Grade: C]


    [Effect: Maintains sharpness and doesn''t dull easily.]


    Was this reward given because the mission mostly involved sneak attacks?


    But what''s with "Dagger of the Unfilial"?


    Well, since it''s a weapon from the simtor, Lucas didn''tin too much. Anyway, he wasn''t that skilled with short weapons, so he''d probably only use it during sneak attacks.


    [Entering Text Mode]


    [After you and E returned home, you were scolded for getting injured. To avoid exposing your abilities, you didn''t mention what happened today.]


    [Some timeter, Mondstadt soldiers discovered four dposing bodies near the barn outside the city. One of the female bodies had been gnawed down to the bone. ording to initial assessments, they were involved in the recent child abduction cases. The cause of death is still under investigation.]


    [Age 10: Perhaps due to the trauma of the kidnapping, E began practicing swordsmanship even more diligently. You knew she was working hard to fulfill your promise.]


    [However, it still wouldn''t be easy for E to seed as the head of the Lawrence family. In a thousand years, there had only been two female heads. For a woman to be the head of the Lawrence family, she would have to work much harder.]


    [Of course, you didn''t n to let E struggle on her own. Even if you couldn''t help her directly, you could help clear away the "obstacles" in her way.]


    [If the next generation didn''t have any strongpetitors, it would be much easier for E to be the sessor.]


    [As a reincarnator, aside from retainingbat skills and spear techniques, you also possessed extensive experience as a yboy. You knew exactly how to lead people astray.]


    [Age 11: By intentionally hiding your talents, you didn''t stand out among the younger generation in your family. But thanks to your charming personality, you thrived socially, making many "friends" and bing adept at identifying their preferences and weaknesses.]


    [Lutherford Lawrence, thirteen years old. Although his martial arts skills were average, his academic performance was exceptional, making him a formidable rival for E. After you casually gifted him a few books about rogue heroes, he became obsessed and lost all interest in his studies, even dering that he wanted to be a novelist.]


    How hrious, a novelist? Not even a dog would choose that career!


    Lucas rolled his eyes. Was the simtor version of him trying to bring down all the promising young talents by leading them astray?


    [Age 12: You met Gray Lawrence, whose talent in economics was excellent. If he became the future head of the family, the Lawrence family''s financial reports would likely look much better every year.]


    [But that was only if. After you took him to a few gambling houses, his interest in numbers and business shifted entirely to dice and cards.]


    [Age 13: Molit Lawrence, only one year older than you. His talent in swordsmanship rivaled E''s, and he never neglected his physical training. Every time you saw his 6''2" frame and bulging muscles, you wondered if he was really only fourteen.]


    [You quickly became close with Molit and secretly told him about a "good ce" that would allow him to work out to his heart''s content.]


    [When he came out of that ce glowing with pink lights and with a look of pure satisfaction, you knew this one was done for too.]


    [Half a yearter, Molit had withered away to a skinny reed and had picked up some "shameful" afflictions.]


    [Age 14: Just like in your past life, you once again became a yboy. Although you couldn''t wield the same influence as Eberhart did in Mondstadt, thanks to your noble birth, good looks, and honeyed words, you still became quite popr with thedies.]


    [Even after a thousand years, it seemed that wealth and appearance were still the ultimate weapons in attracting women.]


    [Of course, this wasn''t because you were heartless. Right now, E was the only one in your heart. You were merely using the "First ss of Red Wine" talent to absorb strength from your admirers.]


    [If E was destined to be the "light" of the Lawrence family, then you would be the "shadow" protecting that light. Even if you couldn''t regain the overwhelming power of your previous life, you couldn''t allow E to leave you too far behind.]


    [Through both your efforts, E had already be a key figure for the family''s future. As for you, you were seen as nothing more than a useless yboy.]


    [Naturally, E couldn''t understand your "good intentions," and the two of you drifted further and further apart. Every time she saw you, she would avoid you, her gaze tinged withplexity.]


    [Even so, you still believe that E hasn''t forgotten the promise she made.]


    [It''s just that she can''t understand you right now. One day, she will realize your good intentions. For now, the most important thing is to clear obstacles and umte strength.]


    [Age 15: Your decadent behavior had long caused much gossip in the Lawrence family, and those inexplicably fallen prodigies seemed to have mysterious ties to you.]


    [Finally, one day, the scandal of you toying with a noble family''s daughter was exposed. That noble actually brought his daughter to the Lawrence family estate to confront you.]


    [Your father, Schubert, was furious. He even demanded that you marry the girl as an apology, or else you would face severe punishment. In response, you decided...]


    [1. Agree to marry her.]


    [2. ept punishment.]


    "Of course I''ll choose the second option!" Lucas quickly said, "I''m going to marry E!"


    [How thick-skinned of you to say that...] the system retorted.


    [You refused to marry the girl, insisting that everything had been consensual. This only further enraged your father, who immediately decided to enforce familyw and exile you from Mondstadt for three years as punishment.]


    [In front of the noble father and daughter, Schubert used the "familyw" to beat you six or seven dozen times. It was only when the nobleman could no longer bear to watch that he agreed to settle the matter withpensation.]


    [Your strength far exceeded your father''s, but you knew you couldn''t fight back. He always upheld the grace and discipline of nobility, and he couldn''t tolerate your "decadence."]


    [As a result of the punishment, you were left with serious injuries and had to recuperate in your room.]


    [That night, your father came to your room. You were sulking and ignored him, but he quietly applied medicine to your wounds. His touch was far gentler than the strikes he delivered earlier.]


    ["Son, I know you must hate me," Schubert said as he tended to you. "But I''ve had to punish you harshly because over the years, you''ve caused too much trouble. I''ve covered for you many times, but this time you went too far."]


    [You realized then that it had been a long time since you''d had such a conversation with your father.]


    [You couldn''t help but think of your father from your previous life, Ingobert, the former head of the Lawrence family, who had only spoken to you like this once¡ªon his deathbed.]


    ["Once you''ve recovered from your injuries, I''ll send you to study at a military academy in Snezhnaya for three years," Schubert continued. "When you return, there will be even greater responsibilities waiting for you."]


    [You didn''t resist. Given the current situation,ying low and using the time to further your education seemed like the best option. At this point, there were nopetitors around E who posed a significant threat.]


    [Although the familyw punishment was painful, it had actually helped you. Those in the family who had intended to use this opportunity to hold you ountable were forced to back off due to your severe injuries.]


    [Perhaps this was also part of your father''s n.]


    [For someone used to a life of indulgence, being bedridden was incredibly boring. But what bothered you most was that E hadn''t visited you at all.]


    [Could it be that she had truly given up on you? You found yourself asionally wondering.]


    [A hundred days to recover from broken bones. After about three months of recuperation, you were mostly healed. Tonight, you packed your belongings, as tomorrow was the day you would leave for Snezhnaya.]


    [During this time, you had thought about going to see E, but you knew that given your current circumstances, it was impossible to meet her.]


    [Youy by the window, gazing at the full moon in the sky. The next time you would see a full moon in your homnd might be three years from now. By then, the distance between you and E might grow even further.]


    [For the first time, you began to doubt your "n"¡ªhad you made a mistake?]


    [Just as you were about to go to sleep, a hand suddenly grabbed the windowsill. Before you could react, a slim figure had already climbed in through the window.]


    [Forcing entry into the immersive mode.]


    Along with the figure entering the room, a faint chill also swept in.


    Standing before Lucas was a tall, striking blue-haired girl¡ªa blend of beauty and elegance¡ªE Lawrence, the very person Lucas had been striving for all this time.


    By now, E was over eighteen, andpared to thest time they met, she had shed all traces of her youthful naivety.


    Of course, the most obvious change was her nearly perfect figure, shaped by rigorous training and a diet rich in nutritious food.


    Eighteen years old, growing more impressive by the year.


    "Eu... E!"


    Was she here to see me off because I''m leaving tomorrow?


    Lucas''s heart swelled with emotion. He spread his arms, eager to experience the warmth of his sister''s embrace.


    However, all he heard was a sharp "smack."


    Lucas felt a stinging sensation on his cheek as E, without saying a word, delivered a hard p to his face.


    Do you realize how much emotional damage a p from your sister can cause?


    "What was that sound?"


    From downstairs, his mother''s voice called out, "Lucas, are you okay?"


    "No... nothing!" Lucas quickly replied. "I just... pped a mosquito."


    "Strange..." his mother muttered, "It''s autumn already. Why are there still mosquitoes?"


    "E..." Lucas rubbed his burning cheek and said helplessly, "Did youe all the way here in the middle of the night just to hit me?"


    "I''ve been wanting to p you like this for the past three months," E bit her lip, her pale cheeks tinged with a hint of red. "You dared to do something like this¡ªsaying you''d marry me once I became the head of the family, but then... you spend your days flirting with other girls! Have you forgotten the promise we made all those years ago?"


    "I haven''t forgotten for a single day!"


    Lucas quickly exined, "There''s a reason why I''ve been doing all this..."


    "You don''t need to exin. I know what you''ve been doing behind the scenes," E sighed and said, "Lutherford, Gray, Molit... They were all once promising young talents of the family. But for various reasons, they fell into bad habits and are now ruined. These things... are all connected to you, aren''t they?"


    Caught off guard by her directness, Lucas fell silent for a moment before nodding. "You''re right, I was behind all of that. But they couldn''t resist temptation, and sooner orter, they would have failed on their own. With or without me, the result wouldn''t have changed."


    It sounded a bit like sophistry, but there was some truth to it.


    "This approach is pointless," E frowned deeply. "I''ve never cked off even for a single day. I''m confident I''m better than all of them."


    "I know that, of course," Lucas said earnestly, "To me, E is... the most perfect existence."


    His words struck a chord in E''s heart.


    The young man before her, with his gentle smile, ovepped in her mind with the boy who had rescued her from the barn six years ago.


    The difference was that he was no longer a child. He had grown into a tall and handsome man.


    "Then why... why do you keep doing these things?" E lowered her head, her voice soft with frustration. "Is it because I''m a woman?"


    "Yes!"


    Lucas ced his hand on his chest. "More than anyone, I want you to be the next head of the Lawrence family. Only with the highest authority can no one stop us from being together."


    Although the Lawrence family didn''t forbid marriage between distant rtives, over time, the conditions for intermarriage within the family had be stricter. Especially for rtives like E and Lucas, who weren''t very distantly rted, they would inevitably face many obstacles if they wanted to be together.


    Only by having one of them be the family head, wielding the highest authority, could they ovee these challenges.


    Lucas had considered bing the family head himself. In fact, with his abilities, if he truly wanted to inherit the position, it would be as easy as dreaming of meeting Aragaki Yui¡ªit would be a piece of cake.


    However, bing the family head had always been E''s dream, and it was also the main task of the simtor. So Lucas decided to support her instead.


    "I promise you, I will definitely be the head of the Lawrence family!"


    E grasped Lucas''s hand firmly, her expression serious. "So you must promise me, stop causing trouble and be a good little brother, okay?"


    Hearing this, Lucas couldn''t help butugh. "Do you still see me as that little brother from back then?"


    As he spoke, Lucas stepped closer, and E suddenly realized that the boy who had once been half a head shorter than her was now taller than she was.


    "I don''t care! You''re... still my little brother..." For the first time in many years, being this close to Lucas made E''s heart flutter. She murmured, "You annoying little brother."


    "Annoying? How am I annoying?" Lucas took the opportunity to pull E into his arms, grinning mischievously. "Come closer and smell. Do I really smell bad?"


    "You... do smell bad..." E felt her cheeks grow hot, and her head spun a little as she mumbled, "But... I like it."


    ...


    <strong>R-18 Scene</strong>


    Lucas gently patted her head and removed her ck headband, slowly running his fingers through E''s silky, soft light-blue hair. Then he leaned forward and kissed E on the lips. E was slightly startled, but then she kissed him back.


    He grabbed her plump waist and pulled her closer. The kiss began tenderly, but slowly became more intense andscivious.


    "Little brother...mhm~~~" She moaned as she wrapped her hands around his neck.


    As their lips parted, she blushed slightly, her cheeks turning pink as she looked up at Lucas.


    He closed her lips with another deep kiss, his tongue gently exploring her mouth. He''d had countless experiences in his former life as Eberhart, so he wasn''t a novice.


    His hands were not idle either, moving over her body, his right hand squeezing her sweet and juicy buttocks over the fabric.


    He gently lifted her up and ced her on hisp as he sat on the bed.


    "Let me help you take off your clothes," he whispered in E''s ear. She hesitated a little, then nodded her head with a sigh, her face flushed as she allowed him to undress her.


    He smiled and started to undress her, starting from her legs he took off the thigh high boots, her blue stockings were visible making her look incredibly sexy, he moved his hands and started to caress her thighs also squeezing them a bit which made her whimper.


    He then removed the ck leotard and the next moment E''s iparable white jade body appeared before his eyes, nothing but blue stockings covering her thighs, making her even more alluring.


    She looked nervously to the other side, her left hand covering her lower lips while trying to cover herrge breasts with her right hand, avoiding his gaze.


    Seeing this, he chuckled and began to undress, and the next moment he approached E and sat down next to her.


    "Beautiful... Sister E, you are very beautiful."


    Taking her lips again, Lucas gently touched herrge breasts and began to squeeze them.


    Pulling away from her lips, Lucas looked at her chest and her beautiful pink nipples.


    He immediately lowered his head and ced them in his mouth. He sucked on her pink nipples and bit them as well.


    "Ahn~" she moaned softly, her arms pulling him closer as she pressed his head against her chest.


    At the same time, his left hand caressed her thighs, slowly approaching her most precious spot.


    "Ah~!" Suddenly, E''s body shook. She had a small orgasm, but that didn''t stop Lucas. He gently bit her nipples and at the same time his hand slid between her thighs, entering her cave.


    "Not there! Ahn~"


    Feeling his fingers on her most intimate part, E''s eyes opened wide. She looked at Lucas, who was busy sucking on her nipples, with teary eyes.


    But this only increased the fire in Lucas. He gently slid his finger into her already wet vagina and touched her clitoris. E gripped the sheet tightly, she had never felt anything like this before. Her body tightened and immense pleasure flooded her.


    He released her nipples and kissed her neck as he began to reach for her bottom. Lucas looked at her for a moment before moving closer and kissing her lower lips.


    "Ah?! What are you doing?! No, no, no, no! Ahh~"


    Her body shook violently, and she couldn''t help but grab Lucas'' head, which was now between her legs. She gripped his hair tightly, her eyes tearing up as her body contracted violently, experiencing another orgasm.


    "So this is how you like it, huh? Sister E, you are delicious."


    But Lucas didn''t care how tightly E held him. He waspletely devoted to savoring her sweet nectar.


    "Ahhhh..." she moaned and grabbed his head and Lucas started to plunge his tongue into her pussy. Her pussy began to release its juices and get wet, and she felt the pleasure around her cave as his tongue throbbed in her vagina.


    "Sister E, are you ready?" he whispered to her. She had no more thoughts of stopping or resisting and wanted to do whatever he told her. Her body began to feel a sense of pleasure she had never felt before.


    "Be gentle with me," she whispered into his ear.


    "Don''t worry, we will do it slowly," he told her, seeing that she was afraid to see his big dick. It was a little embarrassing because his little brother was very big despite his young age.


    E lovingly stroked his hair and slowly spread her legs, allowing Lucas'' body toe even closer.


    After confirming that her body was rxed, Lucas took both of her legs and lifted her knees as he spread her legs wide.


    E watched as Lucas''s penis came closer and closer to her vagina, she shivered at the sight and was also embarrassed by the position she was in, but at this Lucas just smiled before lowering his head and murmuring in her ear.


    "Sister E, I love you."


    "Mmm...!" she moaned, clutching the sheets tightly.


    "Ahh..." Her eyes became teary the moment his dragon entered her cave...


    Seeing E''s pain, Lucas stopped what he was doing and waited a few moments, then slowly pushed the tip of his rod into her cave.


    "Ahh!" E bit her lips from the extreme pain. Tears appeared at the corners of her eyes. She could clearly feel her hymen being slowly torn apart by Lucas'' thick dick, and blood poured through the small gap that remained in her cave.


    Lucas stopped moving and after a few moments he slowly began to move.


    "Ahhh...mmm...it''s big...it hurts but it feels good," she moaned and cried at the same time, and the next moment Lucas'' arms were gently around her, and she closed her eyes as his mouth slowly reached for her soft lips.


    Kissing passionately, Lucas began to move.


    Pah, pah, pah, pah!


    With the sound of flesh striking flesh, E''s body shook violently.


    She had reached another great climax, but Lucas'' movements didn''t stop.


    "Mmm...ahhhhhh~" E''s erotic moans drove Lucas crazy. He thrust very hard into her cave.


    "Ku! It''s so good! Brother Lucas! Haa, haa!"


    Lucas'' breathing became heavier and heavier as E''s moans of pleasure grew louder and louder as she reached out with her hands, hugging his back and digging her nails into him.


    E could feel no more pain - only extreme pleasure. Her mind quickly emptied, and soon the only thing she could think about was the burning sensation in her vagina and the deep pleasure that came with it.


    The only sound that could be heard in the room at that moment was E''s mesmerizing moaning and heavy breathing, the sound of sshing water and pounding flesh.


    "Ahhh! Harder! I want it harder!" E begged for more as she clutched Lucas'' neck tightly.


    Suddenly, her body shook again, and at the same time, Lucas buried his head in her neck and gave her a kiss that wouldter leave a mark on her, while her back shook with pleasure.


    "Sister E!"


    "Ahhh!!!"


    They had climaxed.


    <strong>R-18 End</strong>


    ...


    Hearing the strange noisesing from upstairs, Lucas''s mother frowned and muttered, "What on earth is going on? It''ste in the season. How many mosquitoes could there possibly be in that kid''s room? Maybe I should go check on him."


    Schubert set down the poetry book he had been reading. His usually stern face softened with a rare smile. "There''s no need. The boy''s grown up now. He''s leaving for the military academy in Snezhnaya tomorrow, and for the next three years, he probably won''t have many... opportunities."


    "What opportunities?" His wife, ady of noble upbringing, clearly didn''t understand the implication in her husband''s words.


    "Don''t worry about it," Schubert chuckled. "Just send up some tissuester."


    The strict father, thinking his son was simply entertaining himself, had no idea that his son was actually doing something far more significant.


    ...


    [The talent "First ss of Red Wine" has been activated. Attribute enhancement: Able to control ice elemental power.]


    The enhancement effect... has changed?


    Based on Lucas''s past life experience, this talent could only absorb and control one elemental power.


    In his previous life, Lucas had obtained the fire element. But after his reincarnation, it had now changed to ice.


    This was probably due to differences in his current physique. Even though he had inherited Eberhart''s memories, Lucas and Eberhart were now twopletely different people.


    E, still a bit dazed, seemed unable to process what had just happened.


    She had actually gone along with something that vited noble etiquette.


    "Sorry..." Lucas awkwardly scratched his cheek. "I... couldn''t help myself. Sister E, are you mad?"


    "I... am indeed very angry," E said coldly, her back turned to Lucas. "Do you know why?"


    Killing intent!


    There was definitely killing intent!


    Lucas couldn''t help but swallow nervously. "No idea..."


    "You already have a sister, yet you still go out and flirt with other girls..." E turned slightly, ncing at him from the corner of her eye. "Shouldn''t I be angry?"


    ---


    Author''s Note: ....Oh well I tried ??

 Chapter 70: Villain Simulator, Ch 70

    <h4>Chapter 70: Viin Simtor, Ch 70</h4>


    "So that''s the reason?" Lucas said with mixed emotions. "I thought it was..."


    "I know what you''re thinking. We haven''t officially married yet, but we''ve already consummated our rtionship," E seemed to have prepared herself mentally long ago. She looked directly at Lucas and said seriously:


    "In this life, I may not be the head of the Lawrence family, but besides you, I, E Lawrence, will not marry anyone else. Giving myself to you sooner orter doesn''t really matter."


    "Sister E..."


    Lucas felt deeply moved.


    To have such a sister, what more could one ask for?


    "But..." E''s tone changed, and she said coldly, "If you dare to betray me, hmph hmph."


    "I swear, I will never betray you in this life, otherwise..." Lucas''s eyes rolled, and he said, "Let me be eaten by an evil dragon!"


    Lucas found a loophole in his own oath.


    After all, "this life" was only in the simtor.


    "Tch..."


    E gave Lucas a sidelong nce and smiled, "There are no evil dragons in this world, stop trying to be clever. If you dare to betray me... my revenge will be more terrifying than any dragon!"


    Indeed, due to the changes in the world line, the simted world of Mondstadt had not been invaded by the wind dragon Dvalin, and Mondstadt had long forgotten the fear of being ruled by dragon disasters.


    E''s personality wasn''t much different from reality, but because the Lawrence family hadn''t fallen, she hadn''t experienced neglect and hostility, so she was naturally more cheerful.


    To make an imperfectparison, E might be the "Jean" of another world.


    The same noble birth, the same favored daughter of heaven, the same focus of attention.


    "Knock! Knock! Knock!"


    Just as Lucas and E were about to continue their intimate moment, a knocking sound suddenly came from outside: "Lucas, open the door."


    "Oh no, it''s Mom!"


    Lucas and E both looked surprised.


    This feeling was just like young lovers caught in a midnight tryst when a parent suddenly knocks on the door.


    "I... I''ming!" Lucas hurriedly said, "Mom, don''t open the door yet!"


    "I... I''ll leave first!" E quickly reacted, nimbly climbing over the window. Holding onto the windowsill with both hands, she said to Lucas reluctantly, "Good... goodbye."


    No wonder she was so reluctant to leave, as their next meeting... would probably be three yearster.


    "We''ll definitely meet again!"


    Lucas leaned out and gave his future wife a passionate farewell kiss.


    "This child, why is he so slow?"


    With a creaking sound, the door was pushed open by Mrs. Schubert, who saw her son leaning on the windowsill, not knowing what he was doing.


    At this moment, Lucas was stretching his head out, watching E leave with lingering affection, while E also seemed unwilling to leave, looking back at her dear brother every few steps.


    Seeing this scene, Mrs. Schubert immediately became rmed. She stepped forward and hugged Lucas, crying out, "My son! It''s just a few years of military school, you don''t need to end your life over it!"


    Lucas felt speechless and had to say helplessly, "Mom I''m not trying to end my life. I''m just looking at the scenery. Besides, this is only the second floor, falling from here would at most break a leg, right?"


    Mrs. Schubert calmed down a bit. She suspiciously stuck her head out and immediately saw E, who hadn''t had time to walk far.


    "Oh, isn''t this E?" Mrs. Schubert was slightly stunned and asked, "What are you doing here sote?"


    Because Lucas had been inseparable from E since childhood, Mrs. Schubert was naturally quite familiar with E.


    Of course, precisely because of this, Mrs. Schubert didn''t have any unusual thoughts.


    "Aun... Aunt, hello!" E''s little face turned red as she stammered, "I... I''m night jogging."


    "Ah, you child, you''re working too hard," Mrs. Schubert showed a somewhat distressed expression. "Why don''t you rest for a while, and I''ll make you a cup of tea?"


    "No need!" E hurriedly pretended to be jogging and said, "I have other training to do, so... so I''ll be going now!"


    With that, she ran away stiffly. If Mrs. Schubert had been more observant, she might have noticed that E''s running motion was awkward due to her nervousness.


    Watching E''s retreating figure, Mrs. Schubert sighed and said, "What a wonderful child... Look at you, you grew up together, why can''t you learn from her?"


    Indeed, parents are all the same; other people''s children always seem the best.


    "Yes..." Lucas seemed to be still savoring what had just happened, murmuring, "Sister E is really great..."


    "Ah, such a good girl..." Mrs. Schubert said with regret, "I wonder which lucky man she''ll marry one day?"


    To this, Lucas just smiled without saying anything.


    He wondered what expression his mother would make when she eventually learned that E had chosen him.


    [Entering text mode]


    [Age 16: You left for Snezhnaya with only a small amount of luggage and a letter of introduction. Your father, Schubert, had coordinated with Mondstadt''s Snezhnaya envoy to get you enrolled in the Snezhnaya military academy.]


    [It wasn''t your first time in Snezhnaya. In your previous life, you had traveled across the seven nations with the Dragon Ursa, who had a particr fondness for a local brew called "firewater." Whenever she drank too much, she would perform fire-breathing tricks in the taverns.]


    [Of course, that wasn''t alcohol-fueled fire, but Ursa''s own dragon breath. You couldn''t help but think of that fierce yet adorable dragon. After a thousand years, she had probably returned to the dust by now, right?]


    [But your feet unconsciously led you back to the small tavern you used to frequent with her. Surprisingly, it was still there, though it had changed its appearance.]


    [You couldn''t help but chuckle at yourself. Of course, a little tavern couldn''t possiblyst a thousand years. Still, you went inside to have a drink or two to remember the past.]


    [Among the seven nations, Mondstadt is undoubtedly the one that loves alcoholic beverages the most. Otherwise, the Ragnvindr family wouldn''t have been able to amass such wealth through the wine industry. However, when it came to alcohol tolerance, Snezhnaya far surpassed Mondstadt.]


    [For Mondstadters, drinking was like drinking water. For Snezhnayans, alcohol was as vital as blood.]


    [It''s said that each year, some Snezhnayans drink themselves to death by passing out drunk on the roadside and freezing to death. At one point, the government even issued a prohibition, but public outcry forced them to repeal it.]


    [Perhaps due to their rugged nature, Snezhnaya didn''t prohibit minors from drinking. You easily ordered a strong drink.]


    [However, you were surprised to see an old, prominent oil painting hanging on the tavern wall.]


    [In the painting, a delicate girl was shown breathing fire, while next to her sat a smiling middle-aged man, casually sipping his drink.]


    [For some reason, you felt your eyes moisten. "What''s the story behind this painting?" you casually asked the bartender.]


    ["It''s said that a thousand years ago, there was a foreign girl who drank one hundred and seventy-eight cups of ''firewater'' in a row," the bartender says with a smile while wiping a ss. "The bar owner at the time painted this scene of her drinking fierce liquor."]


    [You continue to ask, "But why is a thousand-year-old painting hung here?"]


    ["This legend is quite famous in Snezhnaya, so a tradition was established here. No matter what kind of shop opens in this ce, they always pass this painting on to the next shop."]


    [You ponder for a moment and express your desire to buy the painting. However, the bartender shakes his head and says, "This painting is not for sale, but if someone can surpass the record of one hundred and seventy-eight cups, they can win this painting."]


    [Almost every day, peoplee to take on the challenge, but no one has ever surpassed the record. Some even believe it''s just a gimmick used by the bar to attract customers. Only you know... that it all really happened, as vivid as if it were yesterday]


    [Whether it''s because you miss your homnd or you miss Ursa who apanied you in your previous life, you unknowingly drink a lot. In your haze, you seem to see Ursa pushing your shoulder, opening her mouth saying, "I''m hungry, go get me something to eat!"]


    ["Ursa!" You hug the girl in front of you, but what follows is a heavy p. You realize that you''re not hugging Ursa, but a waitress who hade to collect the empty sses.]


    [However, this waitress is quite pretty. Although she seems even younger than you, she''s quite tall, and more importantly, the girls of Snezhnaya have a wild beauty different from the women of Mondstadt. Those waitresses in Mondstadt bars would never p a drunk customer]


    [Just as you were about to speak, you suddenly felt a chill on your face. The waitress had sshed the remaining drink in her cup onto your face, waking you up even more.]


    [The surrounding patrons burst into boos andughter. Clearly, this wasn''t the first time this wild flower had done such a thing. Faced with their jeers, you decided to...]


    [1. Apologize.]


    [2. Threaten her.]


    [3. Start a fight.]


    Apologizing is impossible, it will never happen in this life.


    Hitting a woman would be undignified, and besides, you''re a foreigner in thisnd. The bar is filled with rowdy drunks who''d love to see a fight break out, and you''d likely gain nothing from it.


    Moreover, getting violent with a woman after failing to flirt with her would make you no better than a beast. Even if you''re ying the viin, Lucas still has his limits.


    "I choose the second option."


    [Entering immersive mode]


    [Mission objective: Take revenge on the waitress. The more hatred she feels toward you, the greater the reward.]


    Interesting?


    When Lucas opened his eyes again, what appeared before him was a noisy, bustling bar. The drunk customers around seemed to be watching the show, all looking at him.


    Standing in front of him was a beautiful young girl, but she was fuming with anger.


    It had to be said, perhaps due to the cold climate of Snezhnaya and the nutritious food they consumed, the girl in front of him, though around the same age as Lucas, had quite the impressive figure. Almost as impressive as E''s.


    "What are you looking at?" The waitress red at Lucas and said, "Consider yourself lucky to get off with just a p."


    "I was drunk and acted on impulse. I deserved that p," Lucas smiled slightly and said, "But that drink you threw at me, I''m not letting that slide."


    "Hmph," the waitress seemedpletely unafraid of the drunk customer in front of her and said, "My hand slipped, at most I''ll clean it up for you."


    "Tsk tsk tsk, this is a suit made by Mondstadt''s top tailor, using the finest silk," Lucas held up five fingers and said, "It''s worth at least this much, and now you''ve ruined it all. Asking you topensate me isn''t too much, is it?"


    The waitress knew that throwing that ss of wine was a bit excessive, but she still stubbornly said, "It''s just 50,000 Mora, right? I''llpensate you, even if it means I work this week for free!"


    "50,000 Mora? That''ll only cover one sleeve. Listen carefully, it''s 500,000 Mora." Lucas casually took out his letter of rmendation stamped with Mondstadt''s seal and added:


    "Imagine the headline: Mondstadt exchange student discriminated against, brutally sshed with wine by waitress. I bet the newspapers would love that."


    The waitress''s expression darkened even more.


    To be honest, she wasn''t afraid of this man''s threats, but she didn''t want to make a big deal out of this incident.


    "Tonia..." The bartender nearby said with some helplessness, "Why don''t you just apologize?"


    Tonia?


    That name sounds quite nice.


    Lucas pondered silently, feeling like he had seen it somewhere before.


    However, even in the game, Snezhnaya was still an unopened map, and there wasn''t much information about it. He didn''t have any real impression of the name, so it likely wasn''t a major character.


    "I... I understand," Tonia gritted her teeth and bowed her head slightly toward Lucas. "It was my fault."


    "Just admitting fault isn''t enough," Lucas reached out his hand to Tonia and said, "Pay up, 500,000 Mora, not a single coin less."


    "I... I don''t have that much money." Tonia bit her lip tightly, "I''ll pay you back slowly."


    "Pay back slowly?" Lucas tilted his head and smiled, "How do I know you won''t just run away?"


    "How could I, I''m..." Tonia stopped halfway through her sentence, frowned and said, "Forget it, what do you suggest then?"


    "Actually, I don''t care about a mere 500,000. Young master just wants to seek justice," Lucas looked Tonia up and down with ill intent and said, "If you help me clean the wine off my body, I''ll let it go."


    "Really?"


    Tonia was a bit surprised in her heart. She had thought this bad guy had some evil intentions, but unexpectedly, his request was so simple. So she nodded and said, "I''ll go get some paper towels right away."


    "Who said anything about using paper towels?" Lucas stuck out his tongue and pointed at it. "Use this. Clean it with your tongue."


    "You!" Tonia''s face flushed with anger and embarrassment. "How... how could you ask such a thing?"


    "Hurry up," Lucas said impatiently, "If it dries on its own in a while, I''ll have to make you pay."


    Tonia hesitated for a moment, then nodded very reluctantly and said, "I... I agree, but can we... do this in the break room?"


    The bar was filled with drunken patrons eagerly watching the spectacle.


    After all, it wasn''t often they got to see the usually arrogant waitress being humiliated. Everyone was curious to see how she''d be punished.


    "Of course," Lucas nodded and said, "After all, I''m not some kind of demon."


    Still, watching Lucas and Tonya walk into the break room together left the patrons feeling somewhat disappointed. It wasn''t every day they got the chance to witness such an amusing scene.


    Twenty minutester.


    Lucas and Tonia finally walked out of the break room. Lucas''s face showed a rxed and contented expression, and the wine on his face had long been cleaned up.


    As for how they were cleaned... there was no need for further exnation.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Well back to mining guys. We need to build a cobblestone castle


    P.s I''ll upload the extra Chapterter

 Chapter 71: Villain Simulator, Ch 71

    <h4>Chapter 71: Viin Simtor, Ch 71</h4>


    Tonya lowered her head, her face flushed red, and her expression wasplicated.


    "So... does this mean our debt is settled?" Tonya stammered.


    "Of course. Thanks for the special service," Lucas waved his hand as he walked toward the tavern''s exit, smiling. "Oh, by the way, I forgot to mention¡ªthis outfit? It''s not some fancy high-end Mondstadt piece. I bought it at a discount in a Snezhnaya department store. It cost me a whopping 500 Mora."


    "You!"


    Tonya felt her mind buzz with rage.


    Had she just done something so humiliating for a mere 500 Mora?


    Enraged, Tonya grabbed a bottle of beer from a nearby table and hurled it at Lucas''s head, cursing, "You bastard!"


    However, as if he had eyes in the back of his head, Lucas casually caught the iing beer bottle, popped off the cap with his fingers, and took a sip as he left the tavern. "Goodbye, little wildflower."


    "You awful man! I''m going to have my brother kill you..." Tonya muttered angrily as she stomped her feet. "No, I can''t rely on my brother for everything... It''s fine, that guy is just a military school student. One day, I''ll take my own revenge."


    "By the way, Tonya..." The bartender nearby sighed, "That bottle of beer you threw will be deducted from your wages."


    "Eh?!"


    [Missionplete. Mission rating: B.]


    Really? After pissing her off this much, it''s still only a B rating?


    To reach an A rating, I''d probably have to push Tonya even further¡ªmaybe even force her to pay her debt with her body.


    Of course, Lucas had briefly entertained such thoughts, but being new to Snezhnaya and unfamiliar with the area, it was probably best not to cause too much trouble right off the bat.


    [You have obtained the talent: "Never Drunk" (B Grade).]


    [Effect: Your alcohol tolerance is superb; no matter how much you drink, you will not get drunk.]


    [Entering text mode.]


    [The small episode at the tavern didn''t affect your journey in Snezhnaya. Three dayster, you officially enrolled in Snezhnaya''s military academy, bing a first-year student.]


    [The atmosphere at the military academy was as fierce as the culture in Snezhnaya. The first challenge new students faced was the "special care" from upperssmen.]


    [Hierarchy in the military academy was rigid. Even a student just one year above you held absolute authority over the freshmen. Bullying new students was one of the upperssmen''s favorite pastimes.]


    [Every year, the academy witnessed numerous bullying incidents. However, the Snezhnayan elite believed that soldiers needed to have toughness, and a harsh environment helped forge a resilient character. As a result, they often turned a blind eye to the violence within the academy.]


    [As soon as you entered the dormitory, some upperssmen who enjoyed picking on neers targeted you. Establishing dominance over freshmen had be a tradition in the academy. Moreover, to them, you were just a "soft-faced foreigner" with no connections.]


    [Although it was a military academy, it wasn''t much different from actual military service. Depending on their performance, students were ranked as Private Second ss, Private First ss, Private First ss with Honors, or Squad Leader.]


    [This academy didn''t ept female students. In such a repressive environment, some twisted upperssmen would choose to vent their frustrations on certain freshmen they found pleasing to the eye.]


    [One of the Squad Leaders noticed your clean-cut and handsome appearance. He threatened you, saying, "If you want to graduate alive from this school, make sure you brush your teeth every day and wait for me in the showers."]


    [Facing the Squad Leader''s threat, you decided to...]


    [1. Submit andply.]


    [2. Offer a bribe.]


    [3. Fight violence with violence.]


    "If Snezhnaya respects strength..." Lucas said calmly, "then I''ll fight violence with violence."


    [You pretended to be afraid and nodded. The Squad Leader was thrilled and immediately dragged you into the showers. The other students watched eagerly, anticipating the show.]


    [Living in such an environment for too long can corrupt even the kindest of people. Going against this system rarely ends well.]


    [Soon, a scream echoed from the showers, and the students in the dorm exchanged knowing smiles. Someone even sneered, "Looks like this new kid will be sleeping on his stomach for half a month."]


    [But to everyone''s surprise, the sound of the Squad Leader begging for mercy soon followed. As they stared in confusion, you opened the door and stepped out, tossing a bloody lump of flesh onto the floor. Your expression was cold as you said, "Take your Squad Leader to the infirmary. He doesn''t seem to be feeling too well."]


    [The students rushed into the shower, only to find the Squad Leader lying in a pool of blood. Arge wound ran across his groin, but it had been packed with ice to temporarily stop the bleeding. His face was full of terror, as if he had just experienced something excruciating.]


    [The students quickly carried the Squad Leader to the infirmary. Although his life wasn''t in danger, he had been left a "one-testicle warrior." No matter how many times he was questioned, the Squad Leader insisted it was just an ident.]


    [Because of this incident, you were quickly recognized as someone not to be messed with, and the other upperssmen didn''t dare to bully you.]


    [Half a monthter, the Squad Leader returned to the dormitory. While others thought he would seek revenge on you, he instead showed you respect and fear. Clearly, your actions had left a deep psychological scar on him.]


    [Although the atmosphere in the academy was harsh, one benefit was that these Snezhnayan students weren''t particrly cunning. They respected those with the biggest fists. Soon, your reputation spread throughout the entire academy, and everyone knew that among this year''s freshmen, there was a fearsome figure nicknamed "The Cracker."]


    [Achievement Unlocked: The Cracker]


    [Reward: Talent - The Cracker]


    [Effect: Increases damage to male targets by 10%, with a 100% increase in critical damage to vital areas.]


    What kind of strange talent is this?


    Although, to be honest, it''s quite a useful bonus...


    It''s just that the name doesn''t sound very ttering.


    [Of course, you weren''t ostracized because of this. In fact, while you were tough with your fists, you were also quite generous, embodying the behavior of a typical rich yboy. You soon established your own "faction" within the school, using your dorm as the base.]


    [You bullied freshmen, but only those who were timid and submissive. For the talented and strong-willed ones, you recruited them under your wing and offered them protection.]


    [This wasn''t the Lawrence family in Mondstadt, so there was no need for you to keep a low profile. Your memories from your past life allowed you to excel with ease.]


    [Especially inbat sses, which were the most valued in the military academy. Not only were you better than your peers, but even most of the instructors found it hard to defeat you.]


    [Your spear had swept through countless challengers. In fact, many people grew instinctively fearful at the sight of your spear tip. Despite having many nicknames, your most infamous title was still "The Cracker."]


    [Aside from studying at the academy, you would asionally take advantage of your duties to leave campus for a drink or two. Your favorite spot was still that same tavern, where you''d sit and gaze at the painting of Ursa on the wall, drinking untilte at night.]


    [Unfortunately, due to your "Never Drunk" talent, it was almost impossible for you to get intoxicated. Even more disappointing was that the cute waitress named Tonya had long since quit her job.]


    [Age 17: Due to your excellent performance, not only did you smoothly advance to the second year, but you were also promoted to Squad Leader¡ªa rare achievement. Several higher-ups even hinted that they hoped you would stay in Snezhnaya to serve the Tsaritsa.]


    Serve the Tsaritsa?


    What, do you guys want to turn her death anniversary into Arbor Day or something? (AN: holiday in which individuals and groups are encouraged to nt and care for trees)


    [This year, the academy weed many new students. You, who had already established yourself as a tyrant in your first year, became even more arrogant in your second year.]


    [You came up with many "methods" to torment the freshmen. While some thought it was mere bullying, and even some senior students found your tactics excessive, you were actually testing the capabilities of these students. You were picking out those you saw as promising recruits for your faction.]


    [This military academy was destined to produce many of Snezhnaya''s future military elites and Fatui members. Building connections with them now could only be beneficial.]


    [What surprised you even more was that among the new students, you spotted a "familiar" face. Despite the crisp military uniform she wore, you immediately recognized her¡ªTonya.]


    [The former tavern waitress had disguised herself as a man to join the all-male military academy. If this was exposed, she would undoubtedly face severe punishment. Now, you had to decide...]


    [1. Report her immediately.]


    [2. Observe and wait.]


    [3. Seek revenge.]


    "Obviously, it''s the third option," Lucas couldn''t help but smile mischievously. "Since she''s on my turf now, I have to make her suffer a bit."


    [You didn''t report her. Instead, you used your connections to assign Tonya to your dormitory. To the others, she was just a pretty-faced rookie, but to you...]


    [Entering immersive mode.]


    Before Lucas stood a young man standing at attention, but of course, he had already seen through the disguise¡ªit was Tonya.


    Lucas didn''t know why she was doing this, but it wasn''t a bad thing for him.


    First, he could have some fun tormenting this little girl. Second, it would add a bit of excitement to his otherwise dull life at the military academy.


    She had clearly recognized you as well, and her expression showed hints of nervousness. Tonya''s only hope now was that you hadn''t discovered her true identity.


    A girl disguised as a man, sneaking into the army?


    What is this, Mn?


    Lucas found the situation amusing but remained serious as he said, "I''m a second-year Squad Leader¡ªLawrence. Upperssmen like us are your best mentors. If there''s anything you don''t understand, feel free to ask me, and I''ll kindly exin. Now, introduce yourself."


    "Anthony!" Tonya blurted out the fake name she had prepared in advance.


    "Not loud enough," Lucas said coldly. "I couldn''t hear you at all."


    The other students began to chime in:


    "Can''t hear you!"


    "Say it again!"


    "How can you serve the Tsaritsa with such a weak voice?"


    "Yes, sir!" Tonya''s face turned bright red as she shouted, "Anthony!"


    "Good! That''s more like it!" Lucas, grinning, deliberately patted Tonya''s chest. "Nice chest muscles, kid."


    Tonya felt a wave of embarrassment and shame, but to avoid exposing her identity, she forced herself to reply, "I... I did a lot of heavy lifting back in my hometown."


    "Oh?" Lucas narrowed his eyes, leaning close to her ear and whispering, "Does waiting tables at a tavern count as heavy lifting?"


    Hearing those words, Tonya''s face turned ashen. Lucas patted her shoulder and said, "Come with me to the showers, freshman. I''ll teach you how to properly respect your seniors."


    Though Tonya didn''t want to go, she knew that if she resisted, Lucas could expose her, and her n would be ruined. Reluctantly, she lowered her head and let him lead her to the showers.


    The other dormmates exchanged knowing smiles.


    Too bad that one-testicle Squad Leader had already graduated. If he were still here, his reaction to this scene would''ve been priceless.


    The boy who once fought dragons had finally be a dragon himself.


    As soon as they entered the shower, Lucas shoved Tonya against the wall, grinning mischievously. "You''ve got guts, don''t you? Sneaking into the military academy disguised as a man. Are you tired of living?"


    "How... how did you figure it out?" Tonya asked, her face full of tension.


    "What do you think?" Lucas nced at his hand. "Whose chest muscles are that big?"


    "I..." Tonya was both embarrassed and angry, but she had no choice. She pitifully asked, "I know I was wrong thest time. What will it take for you to let me go?"


    Tonya had initially thought that after sneaking into the military academy, she could rely on her own abilities to achieve sess, and perhaps even exact revenge on this foreign scoundrel.


    But what she hadn''t expected was that this guy was thriving at the academy, and even more coincidentally, he had be the head of her dormitory.


    Of course, she had no idea that the reason she ended up in this situation was all part of Lucas''s n.


    "I liked your defiant attitude back then," Lucas teased. "Did you really think you could hide your secret for three years? As long as you stay in this dorm, your secret will be exposed within three months."


    "So... so what?" Tonya stubbornly replied. "I''ll just ept whatever punishmentes."


    "Punishment? That would be the best possible oue. You need to understand, this school is filled with nothing but men. After spending a year or two in this closed-off environment, even the ugliest sow would start looking pretty to them."


    Lucas lifted Tonya''s chin yfully and smiled. "If these starving beasts find out there''s a beautiful girl like you among them... even if it meant risking court-martial, I''m sure they''d do some very unpleasant things to you."


    He wasn''t joking. Every year, the academy''s proctology department dealt with serious incidents. If even good-looking men couldn''t escape attention, Tonya''s fate would be much worse if her secret were revealed.


    "Miss Tonya," Lucas said with a wicked grin, sensing her fear, "I''m sure you don''t want your secret exposed, do you?"


    "You''re... ckmailing me!" Tonya wasn''t stupid, despite her impulsive nature. Clenching her fists, she demanded, "What do you want from me?"


    "You have two choices," Lucas said, raising one finger. "First, I can expose your secret right now. Whether or not you make it out of this dorm with your clothes on... well, that''s up in the air."


    "Don''t try to scare me!" Tonya''s tough facade was already crumbling inside. "What''s the second option?"


    "Second, for the next two years, I''ll protect you," Lucas saidzily. "And I guarantee no one will discover your secret."


    "Are you really that kind-hearted?" Tonya frowned. "Tell me, what''s the catch?"


    "The condition is simple," Lucas said, pointing his thumb toward himself. "Be my personal maid and take care of me for the next two years."


    "Just... just take care of you?" Tonya''s face flushed red. "You won''t... make any excessive demands?"


    "I can''t guarantee that," Lucas replied honestly. "After all, living day and night with such a cute girl... who can promise to stay perfectly rational?"


    Tonya pondered for a moment before finally nodding. "I... I ept your terms."


    "Good," Lucas said, satisfied. "Now, I have onest question. Why did you take such a big risk to sneak into the academy disguised as a man?"


    "Because my brother works for the Fatui, and he holds an important position," Tonya replied calmly. "I want to get into the Fatui through the academy and support him."


    Lucas couldn''t help butugh inwardly.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Personally I wouldn''t let that slide, Childe. Just saying.

 Chapter 72: Villain Simulator, Ch 72

    <h4>Chapter 72: Viin Simtor, Ch 72</h4>


    If Tonya''s brother truly held a high position in the Fatui, why would she endure such humiliation?


    It was likely just a lie, meant to warn Lucas not to go too far with her.


    However, Lucas didn''t expose her "lie." He simply whispered, "Now, try screaming a few times. The louder, the better."


    "Why?" Tonya looked puzzled.


    "Otherwise, those guys outside will get suspicious," Lucas smirked. "You don''t think they''ll believe I brought you in here just to have a chat, do you?"


    Only then did Tonya realize what he meant. Although she felt embarrassed, she let out a few loud screams. Fortunately, her personality was rather bold, so she wasn''t overly shy about it.


    When the two of them left the shower room, the dormmates outside all had knowing expressions on their faces.


    "Listen up, and spread the word," Lucas said as he wrapped his arm around Tonya''s shoulders, grinning. "From now on, this kid is my exclusive property. Tell the others to stay away."


    Hearing this, the others couldn''t help but feel a little disappointed. After all, such a good-looking freshman was rare, and now he had quickly be the personal ything of the campus tyrant.


    [Entering Text Mode]


    [To maintain appearances, you applied for a double dorm room. Given your outstanding performance, securing this special privilege wasn''t difficult.]


    [Before long, you and Tonya moved into a double dorm. Of course, to the outside world, your rtionship was already quite clear.]


    [Especially with Tonya''s pretty face, even while disguised as a man, she attracted a lot of attention. Many students even thought "he" was cuter than actual girls.]


    [However, you didn''t just treat Tonya like a maid. With your increasingly bold demands and threats, Tonya had no choice but to slowlypromise.]


    [In less than three months, except for the final step, you had already made Tonya try almost everything.]


    [You had to admit that the dull and monotonous life at the military academy was starting to get to you. For many students, the first thing they did after receiving a rare break wasn''t to go home, but to use their meager stipend to blow off steam.]


    [Having Tonya around made things much "easier" for you. At least, as a young man full of energy, you didn''t end up bottling up your frustrations.]


    [As for why you hadn''t taken that final step, maybe it was because, in your mind, as long as you held back, you wouldn''t feel like you had betrayed your fianc¨¦e back in Mondstadt¡ªE.]


    [Of course, you kept your promise. Under your "protection," Tonya wasn''t troubled by anyone. At worst, she endured the asional whistle or catcall from a few ill-intentioned students.]


    [However, you couldn''t protect her every second. One day, when you were assigned to instruct freshmen inbat techniques as part of your duties, you returned to find Tonya missing.]


    [One of your underlings informed you that ten minutes ago, Tonya had been shoved around and dragged to the gym by Senior Gambes and a group of students.]


    [Gambes was a third-year student, notorious for bullying others, and he had considerable influence within the academy. Your groups had shed several times before. If you provoke him now, it could be the spark that ignites a full-blown conflict between your factions.]


    [Though you had established your own faction at the academy, you were still an outsider. If you got into a dispute with someone like Gambes, it might not turn out in your favor.]


    [As for Tonya, in the end, she was just a tool for your amusement. Whether it was worth getting into trouble for her was debatable. So you decided...]


    [1. Swallow your pride.]


    [2. Go save her.]


    "Swallow my pride... How could I let that slide?" Lucas said quickly. "I choose the second option!"


    After all, I haven''t even had my first ss of wine yet!


    [Entering immersive mode.]


    [Mission objective: Rescue Tonya.]


    [Mission reward: B-tier Talent.]


    Snezhnaya Military Academy, Gymnasium.


    Normally, the gym was only open during ss hours, but Gambes had a lot of connections at the academy, so getting ess to it wasn''t hard for him.


    In fact, this wasn''t the first time he had brought a good-looking male student here.


    At this moment, Gambes and his gang of seven or eight students had already cornered Tonya.


    Gambes came from a military family. Though he was only 19, his face was already covered in stubble, and his nearly two-meter-tall, burly frame gave off an imposing aura.


    "What... what do you want?" Tonya asked nervously, her back against the wall. "Don''t you know I''m under the protection of the Lawrence gang?"


    The "Lawrence gang" was, of course, the name of Lucas''s faction. While it didn''t mean she could walk around the school unchallenged, it was enough to offer some level of safety.


    "I couldn''t care less about that Mondstadt pig!" Gambes sneered, revealing his yellowed teeth from years of smoking. "I''ve been keeping my eye on you, little pup. Such a fine piece of meat, wasted on that pretty boy. What a shame."


    Seeing that even invoking the Lawrence name wasn''t helping, Tonya''s nervousness grew stronger.


    She knew exactly what these guys wanted. If they seeded, her secret would certainly be exposed.


    And as Lucas had warned her before, she might even face a lot more than just exposure¡ªshe could be cruelly tormented.


    "Hmph... You bunch of idiots!" Tonya decided to y her trump card, shouting, "Do you know who my brother is? He''s an officer in the Fatui!"


    Upon hearing this, the group showed a brief moment of surprise.


    Did it work?


    But their surprise was quickly reced by mockingughter.


    "The brother of a Fatui officer would need to attend this academy?"


    "You think we''re idiots?"


    "If you''re an officer''s brother, then the Tsaritsa''s my wife..."


    Before the youngerckey could finish his sentence, Gambes pped him hard across the face. "Are you out of your mind? You dare say something like that?"


    Unlike in Mondstadt, where poking fun at Barbatos was no big deal, showing disrespect to the Tsaritsa in Snezhnaya was an unforgivable offense.


    "Damn it! I''ve had enough!"


    Gambes stepped forward and reached out to grab Tonya. Just as his hairy hand was about to touch her shoulder, a basketball suddenly fell from above, hitting the back of his head squarely.


    "Perfect shot."


    From behind the group came a teasing voice. "The Lawrence team scores."


    Gambes, now resembling an enraged bear, turned around furiously to see Lucas standing behind them, smiling. "Gambes, I heard you took my toy. That''s not okay. Without it, I won''t be able to sleep tonight."


    "Senior!"


    For some reason, the sight of Lucas¡ªthe same guy who was always plotting to bully her¡ªsuddenly filled Tonya with a sense of relief.


    "What are you waiting for?" Lucas beckoned with his finger. "Come on, let''s go home."


    Tonya quickly stood up, about to make her way over to him, but Gambes''srge arm blocked her path.


    "Mondstadt boy, you just said it yourself¡ªhe''s just a toy," Gambes sneered. "What''s wrong with sharing him with your seniors for a bit? Don''t worry, we''ll return him to you in three days."


    Three days?


    Even if Tonya were truly a boy, after three days with these guys, she''d likely be reduced to a wreck.


    "That won''t work, Senior," Lucas said with a faint smile. "Such a delicate toy... It''d be a shame if you broke it with a toothpick."


    The double meaning in his words only enraged Gambes further. Already seething, his fury reached a boiling point. "Fine! You''ve sessfully pissed me off. Today, neither you nor him will leave here. Coming to face me alone¡ªyou''ll regret it."


    "Wait a minute, who said I came alone?" Lucas pped his hands. "Alright, boys,e on out."


    As soon as he finished speaking, the gymnasium doors swung open. A group of students, armed with training weapons, flooded in and quickly shut the door behind them.


    Even in the face of this, Gambes didn''t show any fear. Instead, heughed coldly. "Hey, you guys are all from Snezhnaya, right? Are you really willing to offend me just to help this Mondstadt pig?"


    "You''re the one who should take a closer look," Lucas said casually. "These guys¡ªall of them¡ªare people you''ve bullied before."


    Gambes finally realized that the students now ring at him with hatred were all people he had humiliated in the past.


    When they were alone, they may not have dared to resist. But now, with the chance for revenge, they weren''t about to let it slip by.


    And as for the consequences?


    Do you expect a group of angry Snezhnayan youths to care about consequences? That''sughable.


    Everyone knows that teenage hooligans are the most dangerous¡ªthey''re immature and reckless, and they just might stab you a few times if you say the wrong thing.


    "You can all exact whatever revenge you want today," Lucas said, waving his hand dismissively. "I''ll take full responsibility for the actions."


    "Aren''t you afraid of getting expelled for this?" Gambes''s face finally showed a hint of nervousness.


    "Expelled?" Lucas chuckled. "I''d wee it. I never wanted toe here in the first ce."


    "W-wait!" Realizing the situation had turned bad, Gambes quickly said, "Ganging up on me¡ªwhat kind of honor is that? If you''ve got any guts, let''s settle this one-on-one!"


    "One-on-one?"


    Lucas couldn''t help butugh. "Do you really think being good at fighting matters? In this world, it''s all about power and connections!"


    As soon as he finished speaking, the students behind Lucas, already brimming with anger, stepped forward, surrounding Gambes and his group, brandishing their weapons.


    "White Emperor''s Sacred Sword!"


    "Sword, follow my lead!"


    "Uraaa!"


    Shouting and cursing, the gymnasium had now turned into a battleground. Although most Snezhnayans despised ganging up on others, their long-held grudges against Gambes overrode their usual principles. Revenge was far more important.


    "Hey, hey, don''t go too hard," Lucas said, watching the scene with amusement. "That guy over there, you''re hitting way too hard. Do you also want to be the ''Cracker''?"


    "Ahem, um..."


    Just then, a hesitant voice came from behind Lucas. He turned to see Tonya standing there, her eyes filled with a mixture of emotions. "T-thanks for saving me."


    "Don''t get the wrong idea," Lucas casually wrapped his arm around Tonya''s shoulders and whispered, "I just don''t want anyone dirtying my toy."


    "D-don''t do that," Tonya shrank back slightly, stammering, "There are people watching."


    "It''s fine. Everyone in school already knows about our ''special rtionship''," Lucas said, unconcerned, with a smirk. "But you sure are bold, pretending to be the rtive of a Fatui Harbinger."


    "I..."


    Tonya opened her mouth to exin, but before she could say anything, there was a loud "thud" as Gambes copsed to the ground. He and hisckeys had been beaten ck and blue.


    Gambes, who normally relied on his size and menacing appearance to bully others, was not much of a fighter. Combined with the overwhelming numbers against him, he had no chance and was swiftly defeated.


    "Stop... please stop!"


    The arrogant Gambes was now kneeling on the ground, panting heavily. His pride was shattered as he begged, "If this continues, someone''s going to die!"


    "You''ve got a point. If someone dies, it won''t just be a matter of expulsion," Lucas said, having already epted the possibility of being expelled and deciding to go all out. "But I think my friends, the ones you bullied, still haven''t had enough fun."


    The members of the Lawrence gang had all been tormented by Gambes at some point. There was no way they''d let him off so easily now, and they began shouting for more.


    "I''ve got an idea!" Lucas grabbed a training spear nearby, examined it, and muttered, "Hmm, this size should do."


    "W-what are you nning to do?" Gambes seemed to realize something terrible and began to sweat profusely.


    "Turn him around," Lucas ordered casually. "Quickly."


    "N-no! You can''t do this! It''ll kill me!" Gambes''s face turned pale, and he cried out desperately, "Please, don''t!"


    "You guys love doing this sort of thing, don''t you?" Lucas smirked, and with a signal, two students pinned Gambes down. "Since you enjoy it so much, let''s see how you like it."


    "No... please... no!"


    Tears welled up in Gambes''s eyes, and soon after, the gymnasium was filled with his blood-curdling screams.


    This time, Gambes really lived up to his new nickname: "Torn Apart."


    [Missionplete: Rescue Tonya.]


    [You have received a talent reward: "Ruthless Striker" (B-Grade).]


    [Effect: Increases damage by 20% when attacking a target from behind.]


    Another strange talent added to the mix.


    There was no way such a serious incident could be swept under the rug. Later that day, Lucas was summoned to the office.


    "Outrageous! This is simply outrageous!"


    The disciplinarian mmed his hand on the desk, furious. "You started a brawl in the gym, leaving eight students severely injured, and even used a wooden stick... Lawrence, do you realize what you''ve done?"


    "Bullying happens every day in this school, and Gambes has done far worse things in the past," Lucas showed no fear, calmly replying, "The only reason this is such a big deal now is... because I''m from Mondstadt, isn''t it?"


    ---


    Author''s Note: Hajime approves... Childe next chap ??


    STONES!!!!

 Chapter 73: Villain Simulator, Ch 73

    <h4>Chapter 73: Viin Simtor, Ch 73</h4>


    "So what?" The dean seemed quite displeased with this defiant student. "Let me make one thing clear: thew of the jungle in this school is what makes real men out of the students. But letting a foreigner trample on Snezhnayan pride? That will never be allowed!"


    "Forgive me, but this isn''t survival of the fittest. It''s just the weak bullying those who are weaker," Lucas scoffed. "If that''s the case, go ahead and announce my expulsion."


    The dean snapped, "Expulsion is just the beginning. I''ll make sure you''re publicly humiliated in front of the entire school..."


    "Expelling such an excellent student would be a great loss for the academy." azy voice interrupted from behind them.


    A young man with short orange hair strolled casually into the office, smiling. "Couldn''t you let him off the hook for my sake?"


    Both Lucas and the dean froze in shock upon seeing him.


    It was... Tartaglia?


    Having once impersonated "The Doctor," Lucas immediately recognized him.


    He couldn''t believe it¡ªTartaglia really was Tonya''s brother!


    Realizing this, a cold chill swept over Lucas.


    For him, expulsion wasn''t much of a punishment. At worst, he''d return to Mondstadt and get a scolding from his father.


    But if Tartaglia ever found out what Lucas had done to his sister... given Tartaglia''s ruthless nature, there was no way he''d let Lucas off lightly.


    "Lord... Lord Tartaglia!" The dean, suddenly losing his previous arrogance, stood up, visibly anxious. "This student hasmitted numerous offenses. A severe punishment is necessary to set an example!"


    "It seems you''re mistaken about something," Tartaglia said, grabbing the dean by the cor. His smile vanished, reced by a cold, murderous glint in his eyes. "I''m not asking you¡ªI''m ordering you. If I had been the one who caught the guy who bullied my brother, it wouldn''t have ended with just his pants down."


    "I... I understand..." The dean was now trembling with fear, stammering, "I''ll do... exactly as you say!"


    "Smart decision." Tartaglia''s smile returned as he patted the dean on the shoulder. Then, turning to Lucas, he gave a smile full of hidden meaning. "I hear you''re my brother''s roommate. Why don''t you show me around your dorm?"


    The way Tartaglia''s character is set up gives off the vibe that no matter what he does, it never feels out of character.


    So, Lucas couldn''t quite figure out what was going on in Tartaglia''s mind.


    After all, even though nothing official had happened between him and Tonya... they had already gone through first, second, and third base.


    Considering how much Tartaglia dotes on his sister, Lucas had no doubt that he could be dragged back to the dorm and tortured in front of Tonya if Tartaglia found out.


    Even though Lucas was a foreign exchange student, in front of a Fatui Harbinger, his status didn''t amount to much.


    Sigh, Lucas thought back to the days when Tartaglia had been just ackey under hismand. Now, the tables had turned, and he was at Tartaglia''s mercy.


    "Of course, no problem," Lucas maintained his calm as much as possible and smiled, "Please follow me."


    However, much to Lucas''s surprise, on the way back to the dorm, Tartaglia didn''t bring up anything rted to Tonya. Instead, he kept asking Lucas questions about himself.


    Finally, when they arrived at the dorm, Tonya was already waiting in the room. As soon as she saw Lucas and her brother walk in together, a sh of nervousness crossed her face.


    "Brother Ajax..." Tonya forced an awkward smile, "Is everything... resolved?"


    "With me on the case, it was a breeze. But..." Tartaglia suddenly grabbed Tonya''s cheek with a smile. "You said you wanted to attend art school, so I wrote you a rmendation letter. And what did you do? You used that letter to disguise yourself and enroll in military school. Who gave you the guts to do that, huh?"


    Though Tartaglia was still smiling, Tonya knew that her brother was most terrifying when he smiled. She almost wished he would just scold her harshly instead.


    "I... I want to be as strong as you, Brother," Tonya summoned the courage to say. "But you''ve always treated me like a fragile flower in a greenhouse, so I had no choice but to prove myself this way!"


    "Is that what you think?" Tartaglia''s expression shifted slightly, and he sighed. "You truly are my sister. But you should know how dangerous it is for a girl in a ce like this. Even I can''t always protect you."


    "He can!"


    Tonya suddenly grabbed Lucas''s wrist and said firmly, "This man said he would protect me forever!"


    "When did I say something like that?" Lucas''s face flushed with embarrassment.


    Tonya leaned closer and whispered, "You don''t want my brother to find out about the things you made me do, do you?"


    Was he... being ckmailed?


    "Y-yeah, that''s right!" Lucas had no choice but toply. "Don''t worry, I''ll protect Tonya."


    "Oh?" Tartaglia''s expression shifted to one of amusement as he gave Lucas a knowing smile. "Could it be that you like Tonya?"


    "Absolutely not!" Lucas immediately denied it. "Protecting ady is simply a gentleman''s duty."


    "You''re quite interesting," Tartaglia said, staring into Lucas''s eyes. "I like your methods for dealing with Gambes and his gang. Plus, your academic performance is impressive. How about it¡ªare you interested in joining the Fatui after graduation?"


    "I appreciate the offer, but..." Lucas trailed off. "I have reasons thatpel me to return to Mondstadt."


    Upon hearing this, a flicker of disappointment crossed Tonya''s face.


    "Lucas Lawrence, I''ve looked into your background," Tartaglia continued, as if seeing through everything. "You''re a Mondstadt noble, but you''ve always been seen as an idle, ipetent good-for-nothing, even being punished by your family to attend military school for three years."


    "But ever since you entered the academy, you''ve excelled. I don''t know why you''ve hidden your talents within your family, but here in Snezhnaya, things are different. Here, as long as you have strength and merit, even a ve can rise to the top."


    "If the opportunity arises, I''ll give it some thought," Lucas replied nonchntly. "Unfortunately, I have a family waiting for me back in Mondstadt."


    "Well, I won''t push you then," Tartaglia said with a smile, not one to press the issue. "But remember, the Fatui''s doors are always open to you."


    "Alright, alright!" Tonya interrupted, gently pushing her brother toward the door. "Brother, don''t you have a lot of work to do?"


    Sigh, Tartaglia sighed, a hint of mncholy on his face. "Tonya, you''ve really grown up. You''re not the little girl who used to chase after me anymore."


    With that, he waved his hand and left the dorm with a casual ir.


    But after Tartaglia''s departure, an awkward silence filled the room.


    Finally, Lucas broke the silence. "Why... didn''t you tell him what I''ve done to you?"


    Tonya blushed slightly, stammering, "Don''t get the wrong idea. I''d never tell my brother something like that. Besides... nothing really happened."


    "That''s true for now," Lucas squinted slightly. "But I can''t guarantee I won''t get any bad ideas with over a year left of us living together."


    "Hmph, now that you know my brother is a Fatui Harbinger, do you still dare to have those kinds of thoughts?" Tonya tried to act tough. "Go ahead, I dare you!"


    "Well, since you''re asking..."


    Without another word, Lucas pushed Tonya down on the bed. "I''ve never heard such a strange request before."


    Inside the dorm, a yful mix ofughter and mock scolding could be heard.


    [Entering text mode.]


    [After fooling around with Tonya, you discovered a note on your bed. It was from Tartaglia, and it read: "If you dare do anything inappropriate to my sister, I''ll pay you back double."]


    [You immediately understood what this meant, and a sense of unease crept over you.]


    [Although therge-scale brawl caused a significant uproar, thanks to Tartaglia''s intervention, the situation was quickly smoothed over.]


    [Your "Lawrence gang" also became well-known after this incident, rising to be one of the most powerful factions in the academy.]


    [As for Gambes and hisckeys, they became theughingstock of the school and didn''t recover by the time the graduation ceremony came around.]


    [The rtionship between you and Tonya also changed subtly after the incident. You continued to take care of each other in unspoken ways, though the two of you never crossed the final line.]


    [After all, Tartaglia''s note was likely not a joke. If things really got out of hand, even returning to Mondstadt might not be enough to escape his retribution.]


    [Age 18: Soon, you entered your third year, which would be your final year at the Snezhnaya military academy.]


    [Over the past two years, you regrly exchanged letters with your family, including not just your parents but also E.]


    [You were thrilled to learn that E had passed the family trials and obtained the Lawrence family emblem, "Crest of Frost."]


    [For thousands of years, only a handful of people had sessfully passed the family trials. This emblem was entrusted to those who would carry the family''s hopes, meaning that E bing the next head of the Lawrence family was now just a matter of time.]


    [However, Mondstadt had not been entirely peaceful. Rumors damaging the Lawrence family''s reputation asionally circted among the people. Though these rumors hadn''t shaken the family''s control over Mondstadt, they had caused a noticeable impact.]


    [In just half a year, the Lawrence family had arrested over a dozen individuals used of spreading these rumors, yet the source of the gossip had not been found.]


    [This didn''t concern you too much. After all,pared to the intense conflict between Mondstadt''s nobles andmoners a thousand years ago, the current situation was hardly rming.]


    [Besides, the Lawrence family''s reputation had improved significantlypared to centuries ago. The people had no real need to overthrow them, and certainlycked the power to do so.]


    [Upon entering your third year, your position at the academy became even more secure, and Tonya had grown capable of handling herself. Even without your protection, no one dared to bother her anymore.]


    [You remained the school tyrant, but interestingly, the incidents of bullying within the academy had noticeably decreased over the past two years.]


    [This wasn''t due to your intentional efforts, but rather because Gambes'' fate had served as a cautionary tale. No one could be sure if the person they bullied today might seek revenge tomorrow.]


    [Moreover, the majority of students were now part of the Lawrence gang, whose first rule was simple: settle conflicts with strength, and anyone using underhanded methods would face severe punishment.]


    [As a side note, though Gambes had regained the ability to walk, he would likely spend the rest of his life dependent on adult diapers.]


    [Although you were still a student, by your final year, your responsibilities resembled those of a staff member.]


    [As graduation approached, more voices urged you to stay. No one had anticipated that the once unremarkable exchange student from Mondstadt would have such a significant influence.]


    [However, you knew that staying was not an option. In the distantnd of Mondstadt, there were people waiting for your return.]


    [Finally, the day of the graduation ceremony arrived. As you stepped onto the stage, thunderous apuse erupted from the audience. Without realizing it, you had be a role model for many students.]


    [Feeling a mix of emotions, you took the microphone and calmly said: "Goodbye, you bastards."]


    [One thing that caught your attention was that, two weeks before graduation, Tonya had moved out of the dormitory you shared.]


    [Whether it was your imagination or not, you felt as though she had been deliberately avoiding you. This meant you didn''t even get the chance to say a proper goodbye.]


    [In truth, you weren''t sure what kind of rtionship the two of you had. Perhaps leaving quietly was the best ending for both of you.]


    [However, there was onest thing you needed to do before leaving the city.]


    [You returned to the tavern where you had first met Tonya three years ago, determined to break Ursa''s drinking record and take that painting with you.]


    [The bartender had long since been reced, and he seemed unimpressed by your challenge. After all, countless people over the years had tried to break the record, most failing miserably¡ªsome even ending up needing stomach pumps.]


    [Firewater, Snezhnaya''s most famous liquor, lived up to its name¡ªit was so potent it could be set alight.]


    [Drinking it felt like swallowing mes, and even seasoned drinkers could hardly make it past ten cups.]


    [However, thanks to your "Never Drunk" talent, you took it in stride. As ss after ss of firewater went down, you soon attracted the attention of onlookers.]


    [Just as you were about to down your sixty-third ss, a familiar figure suddenly sat down across from you¡ªit was none other than Tonya.]


    [This time, she had shed her usual military academy uniform in favor of feminine attire,plete with a wig. You now realized just how much the tomboyish Tonya had grown into a woman.]


    ["Let me join you for a drink. Consider it a farewell toast," Tonya said as she downed a ss of firewater, though her brow furrowed slightly at its intensity.]


    [You exchanged smiles. After two years of living side by side, you had developed an extraordinary understanding of each other, so much so that no words were necessary to convey your thoughts.]


    [With your "Never Drunk" talent, it should have been impossible for you to get intoxicated. Yet, looking at Tonya''s flushed smile, you felt a wave of dizziness.]


    [It turned out that sometimes, a person could be more intoxicating than alcohol.]


    [You couldn''t remember how you managed to win the painting that night, but you were sure you had tasted something even sweeter than Snezhnaya''s finest wine.]


    [In that familiar rest area, everything seemed just as it had three years ago, except that this time, the roles had reversed.]


    [Just like Snezhnaya''s firewater¡ªrich, fiery, and intoxicating, every drop lingered with a taste that was impossible to forget.]


    ["First ss of Red Wine" talent activated, reward obtained: Ability to control fire element.]


    What?


    You had unexpectedly gained another elemental mastery?


    Lucas was astonished. Even in his previous life, he had only mastered fire-element control. Could it be that the "First ss of Red Wine" talent''s attribute enhancement was not limited to the attributes of the absorbed individual? Could special characters trigger additional effects?


    Although he didn''t fully understand it, this exnation seemed the most usible for now.


    [The next day, you woke up in the hotel room you had reserved. Your painting and luggage had already been packed, but Tonya was nowhere to be found. On the pillow, she had left a note¡ªa simple message: Everything that happened yesterday was voluntary. She wished you sess upon your return to Mondstadt.]


    [Your emotions were mixed, but the room''s clock had already struck the hour, it was time to leave.]


    [After onest look at the northern city where you had spent three years, you finally embarked on your journey home.]


    [Besides your parents, your return didn''t garner much attention. The one you had longed for, E, only paid you a visit briefly, constrained by her status.]


    [After three years apart, E had shed more of her youthful naivety. Now twenty-one, she had achieved many aplishments that her predecessors never had. She earned the Crest at the youngest age ever and secured her position as the Lawrence family''s heir just after turning twenty.]


    [Due to her status, E''s demeanor was somewhat distant. After all, she was now the most celebrated figure in the family, the hope of the Lawrence legacy. Every word and action of hers was under the watchful eyes of many.]


    [Of course, this was just a facade. Despite being three years apart, the connection between you two was still as strong as ever. With just a nce, you could understand each other''s thoughts.]


    ---


    Author''s Note: I''ll be traveling for a while, so I won''t be able to post extra Chapters daily. However, please keep voting! I''ll upload all the Chapters on weekends. Thanks for your support!


    On that note, get us to 1600 today and I''ll release the next Chapter immediately!

 Chapter 74: Villain Simulator, Ch 74

    <h4>Chapter 74: Viin Simtor, Ch 74</h4>


    [That evening, you returned to your long-missed bedroom. Although you had been away for a long time, the room remained spotless. Your mother regrly cleaned it, even though she knew your return wouldn''te any sooner because of it.]


    [The nket carried the fresh scent of sunlight. Just as you were enjoying the moment, a sudden cold draft swept through the room. When you turned around, E had already appeared behind you.]


    [You embraced her tightly and a fiery passion ignited in your chest. In moments like this, words became unnecessary; through action, you both expressed the intense longing you had for each other.]


    [Downstairs, Mrs. Schubert nced up at the ceiling, puzzled, muttering, "That child''s really attracting mosquitoes; he''s been swatting non-stop sinceing home..."]


    [After an hour and a half, when things finally quieted down, you and E basked in the afterglow of your reunion. You took the opportunity to ask about your wedding.]


    [However, E showed a hint of hesitation. She told you that although she had earned the title of heir, she was still too young. She needed a few more years of experience before formally taking on the role of head of the family. She asked if you could continue waiting.]


    [Noticing your subtle change in expression, the usually frosty family heir showed a softer side, whispering, "It''s okay, even if the wedding is dyed, I''ll find other ways to make it up to you."]


    [You understood E''s implication, and from that day on, your window was never locked again. Like the Teyvat version of Romeo and Juliet, you and E often met under the cover of night.]


    ...


    [Age 19: Time passed quickly, and before long, you had been back in Mondstadt for some time. One day, your father, Schubert, approached you very seriously, telling you that it was time to demonstrate what you had "learned" and serve the family.]


    [In truth, you had been waiting for this day, already prepared to build your legacy in the Lawrence family. This wasn''t just to support E by removing any obstacles, but also to increase your chances of marrying her.]


    [However, your father led you to a hidden underground chamber within the family estate¡ªa ce that, as someone who once ruled the Lawrence family a thousand years ago, you were very familiar with, including this basement.]


    [This secret chamber was an interrogation room where the Lawrence family once tortured those who posed a threat to their power. You were surprised that even after a millennium, the chamber still existed.]


    [Of course, you couldn''t reveal your knowledge of this due to your reincarnation, so you had to pretend as if it was all new to you.]


    [Inside the interrogation room, a man in his thirties, wearing sses, was bound to a chair. He looked schrly, not like a criminal at all.]


    [Your father, Schubert, informed you that this man''s name was Hudson, and he had been secretly spreading rumors about the "Millennium Lie," tarnishing the Lawrence family''s reputation. He was, without a doubt, a heretic.]


    [You were already familiar with the "Millennium Lie" theory. Some Mondstadt schrs, based on leftover clues, believed that the current history of Mondstadt was fabricated by the Lawrence family to cover up their past sins.]


    [You knew that this wasn''t exactly a lie, but to maintain the family''s control, the Lawrence family hadbeled such ims as dangerous heresy.]


    [Your father exined that the Lawrence family had always maintained a secret organization called the "Enforcers." Their sole purpose was to eliminate, in the shadows, any threats to the family''s dominance.]


    [Operating in darkness, the Enforcers often did things that couldn''t be exposed to the light. They were the "necessary evil" to preserve the family''s status.]


    [This revtion didn''t surprise you, because the so-called "Enforcers" were an organization you, as Eberhart, had personally established.]


    [Your father, Schubert, was the current head of the Enforcers. He had brought you here because he wanted you to be one of them, and torturing Hudson was your first lesson.]


    [However, Hudson remained defiant, ring at you and your father with hatred, shouting, "You liars! You thieves who stole the nation! I will never yield to you! The truth... cannot be defeated!"]


    ["At first, their mouths are always tough," Schubert said expressionlessly, pointing at the surrounding torture devices. "But no one eversts past the third one."]


    [Over the centuries, torture devices had evolved. Besides some familiar instruments, there were many new designs that even you hadn''t seen before.]


    [Indeed, humans had a natural talent for inventing new ways to torment each other.]


    [Schubert expertly demonstrated the use of the tools. You found it hard to believe that the refined and courteous man who cherished etiquette was now like a cold-blooded butcher, torturing the heretic in front of him without hesitation.]


    [Blood sttered onto the protective coat he had prepared in advance. His face was calm, as though he was merely teaching you how to prepare a chicken for ughter.]


    [You finally understood why Schubert had sent you to the military academy¡ªto harden your will. He had nned all along to shape you into an Enforcer.]


    ["Leave the rest to me," you said, taking your father''s wrist. "Within the hour, I''ll make him submit."]


    [Schubert seemed surprised but nodded in satisfaction. He left the interrogation room, and soon after, blood-curdling screams echoed from within.]


    [When Schubert returned to the interrogation room, Hudson, who had been so defiant earlier, had already pressed his bloodstained handprint onto a written confession. He had revealed all the information he knew.]


    [There were typically two ways to deal with these heretics: the first was to have them admit their crimes and repent, after which they would be imprisoned ording to the severity of their offenses.]


    [The second, for those who refused to yield even unto death, was a public execution by fire, meant to serve as a deterrent to others.]


    [This method might be cruel, but the Lawrence family had no other choice. Their only option was to uncover the source of the "Millennium Lie" and eradicate itpletely.]


    [Over the years, the Enforcers had been searching for the origins of the Millennium Lie, but the leads they found were scant. Instead, the number of heretics who believed in the lie seemed to be growing.]


    [You knew the full truth, but to maintain the Lawrence family''s rule, especially for E''s sake, you had no choice but to bury the truth yourself.]


    ---


    [Age 20: You had only been part of the Enforcers for a year, but your aplishments were already impressive. Your ruthlessness instilled fear even in your seniors.]


    [Though the Enforcers were a secret organization, rumors about them circted among the popce. Your ruthless methods had earned you the nickname "The Smiling Reaper."]


    [The reason was simple: it was said that every time you conducted an interrogation, you smiled, but your actions were as merciless and terrifying as death itself.]


    [In your previous life, your hands had long been stained with blood, so torturing prisoners carried no burden for you.]


    [However, you kept your role as an Enforcer a secret from E. You knew her sense of justice was strong, and she likely wouldn''t understand your choices.]


    [You told yourself that once all the heretics were eliminated, you could be with E without any worries.]


    ---


    [Age 21: You received a new mission. A heretic who had been imprisoned for over a decade had recently been released. It was said that he had been one of the first to propagate the heretical theories, and he might have ties to the source of the "Millennium Lie."]


    [Your task was to observe him secretly and gather evidence.]


    [This wasn''t your first mission of this kind. Generally, those who had been imprisoned and experienced such suffering wouldn''t dare repeat their offenses.]


    [Still, as always, you reviewed the target''s dossier.]


    [His name was Rafal. Thirteen years ago, he had been arrested and tortured for secretly spreading the "Millennium Lie" and was imprisoned thereafter.]


    [His father was none other than the famous cksmith in Mondstadt¡ªWagner.]


    Wagner?


    Lucas furrowed his brow slightly.


    Isn''t that the same cksmith shop where he bought a dagger in the simtor when he was a kid?


    Looks like things havee full circle.


    ---


    [You disguised yourself as amon customer and entered Wagner''s cksmith shop, ready to investigate.]


    [Despite the shop''s high-quality products, it hadn''t expanded at all over the past decade. This likely had much to do with Wagner''s temperament. Since his son was imprisoned, he had be reclusive and irritable, never showing his customers a kind face.]


    [Now entering immersive mode]


    [Mission objective: Gather useful information during immersive mode. The quality of your rewards will depend on the amount of information you collect.]


    "Wee!"


    As soon as Lucas stepped inside, he was greeted by a middle-aged man swinging a hammer. "What can I get for you?"


    The middle-aged man was none other than Wagner, the cksmith. His hair had grayed over the past decade, but his body remained strong from years of forging.


    However, his unusually friendly attitude puzzled Lucas. Since when did this ill-tempered cksmith start greeting customers so warmly?


    "I''m just browsing," Lucas replied casually.


    "Take your time! Everything''s 20% off today!" Wagner said with a grin as he hammered the red-hot iron before him.


    "What''s going on with your boss?" Lucas asked the shop assistant, Schultz, who was busy with inventory. "I remember he didn''t used to be like this."


    ording to the dossier, Schultz had been an apprentice at the shop for over a decade. Despite his hard work, hecked the talent to learn Wagner''s full craft.


    "It''s because Rafal, his son has been released from prison," Schultz sighed. "Even though the master doesn''t say much, he''s been overjoyed inside."


    Schultz, although honest, had worked for Wagner for many years, and in some ways, he was like a son to him.


    But Wagner rarely showed Schultz any kindness, often criticizing and belittling his work. Schultz sometimes wondered if Wagner was deliberately holding back, saving his true skills to teach Rafal once he was released from prison.


    "Do you need any help with anything?"


    At that moment, a polite voice came from behind Lucas. Turning around, he saw a man in his thirties, smiling warmly at him.


    Lucas narrowed his eyes slightly. This was Rafal, the target of his mission.


    Compared to the photo, Rafal appeared thinner, with sunken eyes and visible scars on his arms. Clearly, he had endured a lot during his years in prison.


    "Rafal, you shouldn''t be out here," Schultz quickly helped him to a seat. "The doctor said you need to rest and recover."


    "I just want to help out around the shop," Rafal replied with a weak smile. "I can still manage sales."


    It seemed... nothing unusual was happening.


    Could he have been overthinking it? Has Rafal truly turned over a new leaf?


    But since the system assigned this mission, there had to be something suspicious about him.


    At that moment, Lucas''s attention was drawn to a shiny golden bracelet on the counter. He picked it up curiously and asked, "Does your cksmith shop sell gold jewelry too?"


    "Sorry, that one''s not for sale," Wagner said with a wave. "A kid left it here over ten years ago. I''ve been holding onto it, waiting for him toe back and im it."


    Lucas suddenly realized...


    Wasn''t this the bracelet he left behind years ago when he came here to buy a dagger?


    Who would have thought that after all these years, Wagner had never sold the bracelet and was still waiting to return it to its owner?


    For some reason, Lucas felt a sudden wave of emotion.


    For a brief moment, he truly wished that Rafal was innocent. If not, this father, who had waited over a decade for his son, would surely be heartbroken.


    "Master, it''s been so many years. That kid''s probably grown up by now. How could you possibly recognize him?" Schultz said helplessly.


    "Besides, the owner of this gold bracelet is probably some noble who doesn''t even care about a little money. You''d be better off selling it and expanding the shop."


    "You fool! The most important thing in business is honesty!" Wagner snapped, clearly displeased. "And my memory is sharp as ever. If I ever see that kid again, I''ll recognize him for sure... huh?"


    Suddenly, Wagner''s eyesnded on Lucas. He murmured, "Wait a minute... that face... there''s no mistake. You''re that little kid from all those years ago, aren''t you?"


    Seriously? This isn''t just a good memory¡ªthis is insane!


    I''ve grown up over the past ten years, and he can still recognize me?


    Lucas instinctively stepped back, and with a soft clink, the dagger he always carried with him, the "Dagger of the Unfilial" slipped from his waist and fell to the ground.


    "Isn''t that the dagger I sold you back then?" Wagner instantly recognized his handiwork,ughing. "You''ve kept it in such good condition! I knew I didn''t misjudge you! Hahaha!"


    What a rookie mistake... I can''t believe I slipped up like this.


    Realizing that his identity could no longer be hidden, Lucas picked up the dagger and, a bit awkwardly, said, "I didn''t expect you to remember me after all these years. As for the bracelet, I knew it was made of gold from the start, so you can keep it. It''s fine."


    "Well then, I won''t be shy about it. You nobles really are generous!" Wagner''s personality was straightforward as always, and he nodded with a grin. "This gold bracelet wille in handy when Rafal gets married."


    At those words, both Rafal and Schultz''s expressions subtly shifted.


    The jealousy in Schultz''s eyes was obvious, while Rafal''s look of panic did not escape Lucas''s keen observation.


    He was definitely hiding something.


    "Ahem..." Rafal coughed twice, his brow furrowed. "Sorry, I''m not feeling well. I think I''ll go rest."


    Uneven breathing, a change in expression, even his movements had be stiff.


    There was no doubt.


    "It seems there''s no point in hiding it any longer." Lucas suddenly spoke coldly. "Mr. Rafal, in my capacity as a member of the Enforcers, I''m requesting to search your room."


    The moment he said this, the three people in front of him were all taken aback.


    Wagner, who had been all smiles just moments ago, was now beside himself with anxiety. "Th-there must be some mistake! My son has reformed, I swear! He would never have anything to do with those heretics again!"


    "I''m sorry, but I''m just doing my job," Lucas replied coolly. "Mr. Rafal, please lead the way. Don''t worry, if you''re truly innocent, I won''t trouble you."


    Though Rafal''s expression was grim, he nodded and led Lucas to his room.


    The room''s furnishings were simple. On the desk were several open books, and the firece crackled warmly. It all seemed like the typical home of amoner.


    Lucas conducted a routine search but found nothing suspicious. The books on the shelves were merely popr novels and poetry collections.


    "I... I told you!" Wagner followed them into the room, clearly agitated. "Rafal promised me he wouldn''t get involved in that stuff again!"


    Just as Lucas was about to give up, he noticed Rafal''s gaze. It seemed to flicker toward the firece¡ªintentionally or not.


    Feeling a sudden surge of suspicion, Lucas extended his hand. A st of icy air shot from his palm, instantly extinguishing the fire in the hearth.


    Kneeling down, he sifted through the ashes and found some partially burned papers, though the writing on them was no longer legible.


    "Care to exin?" Lucas held up the charred scraps. "What were you burning? Trying to destroy evidence?"


    "It''s nothing," Rafal said, his voice steady. "I ran out of firewood, so I used some old books for fuel."


    ----


    Author''s Note: Sigh give that old man wagner some rest...

 Chapter 75: Villain Simulator, Ch 75

    <h4>Chapter 75: Viin Simtor, Ch 75</h4>


    "The cksmith shop doesn''t have firewood?" Lucas sneered, "Mr. Rafal, do you think we''re fools? You''ll have toe with us."


    "W-wait!" Wagner, usually arrogant, suddenly dropped to his knees with a thud and pleaded, "There must be some kind of misunderstanding! Please, spare him this time. I''ll pay you whatever you want! You can even take over the shop if you wish. Just... please, let him go!"


    It was no wonder Wagner was so desperate. His son, just recently released after being imprisoned for years, was about to be taken away again.


    "I hope for your sake that your son is innocent," Lucas said, his face cold. "But if you resist, my men are waiting outside..."


    "No need," Rafal responded calmly. "I''ll go with you."


    ...


    Outside the interrogation room.


    Lucas quietly smoked a cigarette. In real life, he didn''t have a smoking habit, but after bing aw enforcer in the simtion, he found he couldn''t stop.


    The door creaked open, and two sweating enforcers stepped out. "Boss, he still refuses to say anything."


    "I''ll handle it," Lucas said without scolding them. After putting out his cigarette, he entered the interrogation room.


    Inside, Rafal, once neatly dressed, now looked disheveled, his body covered in bloody wounds.


    "Mr. Rafal," Lucas smiled, "Are you satisfied with our hospitality?"


    "You really are the Smiling Reaper..." Rafal weakly muttered. "All it took was some charred scraps of paper, and you could drag someone in here for torture. Is this how your enforcers operate?"


    "You seem to misunderstand us," Lucas said lightly, sitting across from Rafal. "Since when do enforcers need evidence to arrest someone?"


    "You can torture me all you want, but it''s useless," Rafal shook his head. "I don''t know anything. Even if you kill me, you won''t get a word out of me."


    "Everyone whoes in here says something simr," Lucas ced a pear-shaped metal instrument on the table, smiling. "I heard that you''re very intelligent, Rafal. Eager for knowledge, and became a schr at a young age. You should know what this is, right?"


    Rafal''s expression darkened, and he murmured, "Pear... pear of anguish."


    "Exactly. It''s one of my favorite tools," Lucas casually turned the handle at the end of the device. The pear-shaped tool slowly split into four segments, opening up like a blossoming flower.


    "If you shove this into a liar''s mouth and twist it slowly, their mouth will gradually be forced open, tearing the corners of their lips and fracturing the jawbone."


    Lucas exined the terrifying device with the same nonchnce as if introducing a toy.


    Rafal''s face darkened more and more.


    "Well that''s not its only use," Lucas chuckled. "Don''t worry, we use it separately, and it''s always cleaned and sanitized after every usepletely hygienic."


    "You... you can''t scare me," Rafal''s face was drained of color, but he tried to maintain his resolve. "Torture me all you want. I won''t say a word."


    "You''ve misunderstood," Lucas shook his head. "This isn''t for you. Bring him in."


    As soon as he spoke, the door opened. Two enforcers entered, escorting Wagner, Rafal''s father.


    "You..." Rafal''s eyes widened in realization. "What are you going to do?"


    Seeing his son covered in wounds, the usually tough Wagner couldn''t hide his pain. "Sir! My son is innocent! I''ll take his ce. Please, spare him!"


    "Touching. Such a disy of fatherly love," Lucas patted Rafal''s shoulder. "Sometimes, watching someone else suffer is worse than enduring it yourself. You''ll understand that soon enough."


    "Prepare the device."


    At Lucas''smand, Wagner was bound tightly, and the dreaded device was ced in position.


    As the ring was twisted, Wagner''s face twisted with pain, though he couldn''t utter a sound.


    Rafal, sitting right across from his father, was forced to watch the excruciating torture unfold.


    Even Lucas, who had arranged all this, felt a moment ofplexity in his emotions.


    By now, he rarelyforted himself with thoughts like, "It''s just a simtion."


    During the earlier simtions, especially in immersive mode, Lucas still deliberately <i>yed</i> the role of a viin. But now, he found himself slipping naturally into that persona, without any pretense.


    The only thing Lucas could do was make sure he kept the simtion separate from reality.


    As Wagner''s mouth began to split from the strain, even the two new enforcers looked uneasy.


    "Still won''t speak?" Lucas smiled. "Watching your father suffer doesn''t bother you?"


    "Monster! Demon!" Rafal cursed. "I swear the Anemo God will punish you!"


    "If he finds me, I''ll give him a nice spot," Lucas yawned. "Take a break. I''m going out for a smoke. Keep an eye on them, especially the old man¡ªdon''t let him choke on his own blood."


    Lucaszily walked out, but as soon as the door closed, his face changed. Leaning against the wall, he vomited.


    It wasn''t a habit of Lucas''s, nor was it because of the bloodshed. It was because the "protagonist" of this simtion vomited after every interrogation, as if by instinct.


    "Damn it, why do they resist so much?" Lucas muttered, wiping his mouth. "It''s just a matter of saying a few words."


    At that moment, an enforcer appeared behind him. "Schultz has been brought in."


    "I see. Take me to him."


    In truth, Lucas didn''t expect the cksmith apprentice to know anything useful, but as an enforcer, he couldn''t overlook any potential details.


    "Don''t be afraid," Lucas said gently to the trembling Schultz. "I know you''re innocent. We just need to ask a few questions."


    "R-really?" Schultz sighed in relief but still asked nervously, "Will Master Wagner and Rafal be okay?"


    Lucas didn''t answer, instead changing the subject, "How long have you worked at Wagner''s smithy?"


    "Eighteen years... this year will be my neenth," Schultz answered honestly.


    "I really feel sorry for you," Lucas feigned sympathy. "Rafal was arrested at eighteen, and you''ve stayed by Wagner''s side even longer than him. But Wagner always cared more for Rafal, didn''t he? I imagine the smithy will be passed down to him."


    "That''s... that''s how it should be, right?" Schultz replied, though a hint of dissatisfaction showed on his face. "After all, he is the master''s real son."


    "Nothing in life is a given," Lucas sighed. "If Rafal is found guilty, he''ll face punishment, and when that happens, you''d be the only one left to inherit the shop."


    Having experienced life as an illegitimate child in his past life, Lucas was familiar with the envy and resentment toward a rightful heir.


    For a moment, Lucas saw the same look in Schultz''s eyes that he had once seen in Eberhart''s.


    "Too bad," Lucas shook his head. "Without evidence, Rafal will be released."


    "If... if I provide evidence," Schultz muttered, as if possessed, "would Rafal... would he nevere back?"


    "Of course," Lucas''s heart leaped with excitement, though his face remained calm. "And not just that¡ªyou''ll also receive a handsome reward."


    "I... one night, I got up to use the bathroom and saw Rafal sneaking out with a box," Schultz said, trembling with excitement. "Out of curiosity, I followed him and saw... he buried the box under an oak tree."


    "Excellent!"


    Lucas''s face twisted into a sly smile. "This piece of information is a great contribution."


    "There... there''s one more thing..." Schultz''s expression became increasinglyplicated as he mumbled, "Please... don''t tell Master Wagner that it was me who informed on them."


    "Don''t worry," Lucas patted Schultz on the shoulder, smiling. "We enforcers are professionals."


    Not wasting any time, Lucas immediately sent two men to the location Schultz mentioned. As expected, they dug up a box beneath therge oak tree.


    It wasn''t a wooden or metal box, but a heavy stone chest, likely designed that way to protect the contents inside.


    Lucas brought the box back. Inside were some documents, books, and letters¡ªnot much in quantity, but their content was astonishing.


    The materials were research collected by Rafal, all rted to the so-called "Millennium Lie." The uracy of the information matched up with historical events from a thousand years ago by over 80%.


    Most strikingly, the names <i>Eberhart</i> and <i>Vennessa</i> appeared in the documents.


    The records detailed the atrocitiesmitted by the Lawrence family, the secrets behind the WindBlume Festival, and even the incident where Eberhart and the demonic dragon Ursa ughtered a city together.


    If this information were exposed, it would be catastrophic for the Lawrence family. This was far more than just a matter of "damaged reputation."


    As for the letters, they were purely academic in nature¡ªdiscussing the authenticity of documents and specting on historical events.


    What puzzled Lucas was that there was no mention of political discussions or any desire to threaten the Lawrence family''s rule.


    All the letters were addressed to someone referred to simply as "G."


    ...


    Inside the interrogation room, the father and son continued to suffer.


    One endured physical pain, while the other endured psychological torment.


    Wagner had passed out several times from the torture, and Rafal seemed numb to it all.


    "Still won''t confess?" Lucas entered the room with a smile, addressing Rafal. "Your father''s body can''t hold on much longer."


    Torturing a prisoner''s family required delicate control. If the rtive died, it could easily backfire.


    "I''ve told you, I don''t know anything," Rafal responded coldly, his face dark. "We''re just innocent citizens, with no thoughts of heresy."


    "Bang!"


    Lucas threw the stone chest onto the floor, sneering. "This box should look familiar, don''t you think?"


    At the sight of the chest, Rafal''s eyes widened, and for the first time, a look of despair appeared on his face.


    The evidence was undeniable.


    "If I confess..." Rafal said quietly, "will you spare my father''s life?"


    "Of course. In fact, I respect him. He''s a good citizen, a good cksmith..." Lucas nodded. "And a good father."


    "Yes," Rafal began to speak, his voice calm, as he delved into long-buried memories. "Over a decade ago, I indeed came across the research of the ''Millennium Lie.'' Back then, I dreamt of bing a schr. I had an insatiable curiosity for knowledge¡ªespecially history."


    "As I studied historical records, I realized that nearly all of the past thousand years of history had been written by the Lawrence family. However, I noticed discrepancies between their version and the local folklore I had collected."


    "Ahem!" Lucas cleared his throat and signaled the two enforcers to take the unconscious Wagner out of the room.


    After all, the fewer people who knew about this, the better.


    Once they left, Rafal continued, "These discoveries excited me. I began to collect more lost books and records. Along the way, I met others who shared my interests."


    "Oh?" Lucas interjected, "Aren''t you afraid I''ll ask for information about these ''friends''?"


    "They''ve gone to a better ce," Rafal sneered. "A ce where they can pursue knowledge without persecution."


    Lucas pretended not to catch the sarcasm and smiled. "Go on."


    "Wepiled everything we found, held study sessions, and engaged in academic discussions. We wanted to uncover what really happened a thousand years ago."


    Rafal''s eyes glowed with a hint of passion as he spoke. "We uncovered truths thatpletely contradicted the official history."


    "For instance, a ve named Vennessa may have led a rebellion against the old aristocracy."


    "For instance, the demonic dragon Ursa may not have been killed, but instead left Mondstadt for unknown reasons."


    "And... do you know the name ''Eberhart''? He might actually be the true founder of the Lawrence family. Not only that, but it was he who led the demonic dragon Ursa in the attack on Mondstadt."


    "Enough!" Lucas interrupted sharply. "Nonsense! These are just wild spections. Haven''t you considered that these ''truths'' could bepletely wrong?"


    "Of course, we knew it was possible that everything we believed was false..." Rafal looked Lucas in the eye, his expression calm. "But even if it''s wrong, does that make it meaningless?"


    Rafal''s words sent a shock through Lucas. His voice turned cold. "What is the point of studying this history? Are you nning to use it to overthrow the Lawrence family?"


    "As I said, we have no interest in politics. We are only driven by humanity''s greatest desire..." Rafal smiled faintly. "The desire for knowledge."


    "I''ve had enough of your kind!" For some reason, a wave of disgust surged in Lucas''s chest. He grabbed Rafal by the cor, snarling, "Freedom, knowledge¡ªwhat will it take for you people to just live quietly without causing trouble?"


    Why can''t you just live peacefully?


    Why do you have to seek destruction?


    Rafal didn''t resist, his face expressionless as he said, "So, even the Smiling Reaper gets angry?"


    Lucas let go of Rafal and frowned. "Fine. Tell me, who is ''G''?"


    If this ''G'' was still alive, he was likely the mastermind behind everything.


    ---


    Author''s Note: I wonder what''s the other use of pear of anguish... He didn''t borate..

 Chapter 76: Villain Simulator, Ch 76

    <h4>Chapter 76: Viin Simtor, Ch 76</h4>


    "You''ll never know who he is," a trickle of ck blood suddenly slid from the corner of Rafal''s mouth. "It seems... the poison is finally taking effect."


    Suicide by poison?


    For Lucas, a seasoned enforcer, such situations were nothing new. Faced with terrifying torture, death often seemed like a form of release.


    However, enforcers rarely allowed their prisoners the opportunity to take poison. Even if they managed to ingest it, there were a hundred ways to force them to vomit it back up.


    Just as Lucas was about to make Rafal expel the poison, Rafal said calmly, "No need to bother. I took slow-acting poison long before I arrived. By now, it''s spread throughout my body. Even the Anemo God himself can''t save me."


    From the beginning, Rafal had known there was no chance of survival, so he had long prepared himself for death.


    "You sacrificed so much just to uncover a piece of history that can no longer be changed," Lucas sighed. "Was it really worth it?"


    "I have no regrets," Rafal said with a peaceful smile. "I only feel sorry for my father. I apologize... for being such a foolish son... cough!"


    As he spoke, Rafal spat out another mouthful of ck blood.


    "Since you''re about to die, I might as well tell you the truth," Lucas said indifferently. "Your theories are all correct. I could tell you even more, but... you don''t have enough time left."


    Upon hearing these words, Rafal''s pupils dted, his body wracked with agony as the poison coursed through him, twisting his facial muscles into an uncontrolled grimace.


    Yet, amid the pain, a smile spread across his face.


    Rafal took hisst breath, his expression frozen in a strange mix¡ªone half contorted in suffering, the other half in bliss.


    Is this what they meant by "to know the truth in the morning, and to die content by evening"?


    Unlike the people of Mondstadt a thousand years ago, who blindly sought freedom, Rafal and those like him merely sought "truth." They had no intentions of rebellion, yet they still became casualties in the pursuit of it.


    However, just because they didn''t seek to overthrow the Lawrence family didn''t mean others wouldn''t. If an ambitious individual used this information as leverage, the Lawrence family would face severe consequences.


    And that individual could very well be "G."


    To Rafal, perhaps "G" was a fellow seeker of truth.


    But Lucas had a feeling that "G" merely wanted to use this group''s thirst for knowledge to achieve his own ends.


    At that moment, the door to the interrogation room opened. The two enforcers entered, visibly nervous. One of them avoided eye contact as he reported, "Sir, the old cksmith... he took his own life by smashing his head against the wall while we weren''t looking..."


    "I understand," Lucas said, his face expressionless. "Give them both a proper burial."


    However, as Lucas prepared to leave the interrogation room, something caught his eye. On the floor near the chair where Wagner had been tortured were a few twisted, bloody words, seemingly written with a toe.


    A secret message?


    Lucas rushed over, and after carefully examining the writing, he recognized Wagner''s final message to his son:


    "I don''t me you."


    ...


    Hourster, Lucas was riding in a carriage, leaving Mondstadt with Schultz.


    "Here''s the reward I promised," Lucas tossed a pouch to Schultz with a smile. "Thanks for your cooperation. But to avoid any trouble, I suggest you leave Mondstadt for a while."


    "Th-thank you." Schultz opened the pouch and, after seeing its contents, finally rxed. "I was worried... you''d kill me to keep me quiet."


    "We work with principles," Lucas replied coolly. "It''s unfortunate your master died, though."


    "I don''t care anymore. That old man never even looked at me properly anyway," Schultz said bitterly, as if this entire ordeal had unleashed the darkness lurking inside him. "Let them reunite in the afterlife... this money is rightfully mine."


    Shing!


    The sharp de of a knife suddenly pierced Schultz''s chest.


    "You..." Schultz gasped, unable to believe his eyes. "You tricked me..."


    "The one who spared you was the Smiling Reaper," Lucas said, his face emotionless. "not Me."


    It wasn''t vengeance for Wagner and his son. After all, Lucas was the real executioner.


    It was just... for amusement.


    After all, the principles of viins areughable at best.


    ---


    [Mission Complete. Based on the amount of information obtained, your rating is: B-Level.]


    [Reward Skill: Interrogation Technique (B-Level)]


    [Effect: After using this skill, you can force a target to answer one question. The weaker the target''s mental strength, the higher the sess rate. (Usable once per day)]


    Only B-Level?


    Well, it made sense. Although he had gathered a lot of information, the most crucial detail¡ªthe identity of "G"¡ªremained a mystery.


    ---


    [Entering text mode...]


    [The contents of Rafal''s stone chest provided important clues. You handed them over to your father, Schubert, hoping to work together to uncover the identity of "G."]


    [ording to Schubert''s analysis, you need to use reverse reasoning. Who stands to benefit the most from overthrowing the Lawrence family? That would likely be the mastermind.]


    [Suddenly, inspiration strikes. You blurt out a surname: Gunnhildr¡ªthe letter "G" corresponds to this family''s initial.]


    [A thousand years ago, the Gunnhildr family assisted the rebel Vennessa. However, after the true history was erased, this fact was buried along with it.]


    [As a result, although the Gunnhildr family still holds a noble title, they''ve never risen to prominence. Nevertheless, over the past millennium, the Gunnhildr family has maintained close ties with themon people and enjoys a great reputation in Mondstadt.]


    [If the Gunnhildr family were to lead the charge,bined with the truths revealed in the "Millennium Lie," it could spark a massive rebellion.]


    [Though the enforcers are granted immense power by the Lawrence family, without concrete evidence, they cannot act against the Gunnhildr family.]


    [Atst, your father lets out a long sigh. He looks into your eyes and asks, "The enforcers exist to serve the Lawrence family, sacrificing everything for them. I''ve thought of a solution, but it may cost you the happiness of the rest of your life... That is, to marry into the Gunnhildr family, infiltrate them, and gather intelligence."]


    [You have to admit, this is indeed a viable solution. If the Gunnhildr family truly harbors rebellious intentions, your presence within them would prevent them from making any reckless moves.]


    [However, you''ve already secretly pledged your heart to E. Faced with your father''s request, your decision is...]


    [1. Agree]


    [2. Refuse]


    Ahhh!


    Why must there be such a painful choice?


    Isn''t this a bit too melodramatic?


    Lucas felt a deep sense of internal conflict.


    If it were simply a matter of choosing between "good" and "evil," it would be a lot easier.


    But decisions like this¡ªwhere emotions are at stake¡ªare far moreplicated.


    If he refused, the Gunnhildr family might truly use the "Millennium Lie" as a pretext to rally support and overthrow the Lawrence family. If that happened, it wouldn''t just be E''s position as head of the family in jeopardy, but the entire existence of the Lawrence family would be at risk.


    At this point, Lucas was strong, butpared to Eberhart from his past life, who had absorbed over a thousand sources of power (including the evil dragon Ursa), he was still far behind. Solving this crisis through sheer force was not an option.


    But if he agreed...


    Even if he seeded in disrupting the Gunnhildr family''s ns, before that could happen, he''d bebeled a "traitor" and likely be struck down by E herself.


    "I..." After much inner turmoil, Lucas sighed in defeat. "I''ll agree."


    If he could solve the problem with the Gunnhildr family, there might still be a chance to salvage things between him and E.


    [You fall silent for a moment before finally agreeing to Schubert''s request.]


    [For the first time, your father shows a hint of guilt as he pats your shoulder, saying, "To ensure the secrecy of this n, you cannot reveal the truth to anyone."]


    [You know full well that "anyone" includes E. With her personality, if she learned the real reason, she would never agree to this n and might even leak the secret.]


    [A few nightster, on the evening of your next rendezvous with E, you decide that tonight you will tell her about your impending engagement to the Gunnhildr family.]


    [Forcing entry into immersion mode...]


    Hey, hey!


    Are you serious?!


    Can''t we just skip this awkward conversation in text mode?


    Why must it be in full immersion mode? Is there some kind of mission tied to it?


    [No mission, just a little system wanting to enjoy the drama! Pyo!]


    You''re a system! Stop using weird sound effects to act cute!


    Before Lucas could finishining, he was once again in that familiar room.


    For some reason, even though he had always looked forward to E''s arrival, tonight he felt nervousness.


    The clock hands pointed to 10 PM, and a familiar cool breeze blew in through the window.


    Before Lucas could speak, E threw open her arms and rushed into his embrace.


    "Just let me lean on you for a bit," E said, her voice tinged with exhaustion. "Having to deal with all those old guys in meetings is so tiring."


    Though she was only 24, as the next in line to be head of the family, E had already earned the right to attend important family meetings. It was all preparation for her future leadership.


    Who could have imagined that the stern and stoic E, the one who rarely spoke in front of others, could show such azy side?


    It seemed she only allowed herself to be like this around Lucas.


    "Hey, if you''re really that tired, how about you take a little rest?" Lucas gently patted her back.


    "No, this is fine," E said softly, holding Lucas tightly. "Just hugging you like this recharges my energy."


    Hearing this made Lucas''s heart twist in even more guilt.


    Crap... there''s no way I can say it now.


    Sensing something off, E smiled slightly and whispered in his ear, "Little brother, you seem down today. It''s okay... I''ll make you happy."


    "Sister E" Lucas finally steeled himself, pushing gently against her shoulders. "There''s something very important I need to tell you."


    It was rare for E to see Lucas act so serious. Her heart skipped a beat with excitement.


    Could he... be proposing?


    Although she hadn''t officially be head of the family yet, today''s meeting had confirmed the date for her session.


    If he proposed now, it wouldn''t be entirely uneptable.


    "Really?" E asked, barely able to contain her excitement. "Actually, I have something important to tell you too. Let''s count to three and say it together, okay?"


    Before Lucas could respond, E had already started counting.


    "Three... two... one..."


    "I''m going to be head of the family next year!"


    "I''m going to marry into the Gunnhildr family next year..."


    As soon as the words left their mouths, the temperature in the room plummeted to freezing levels.


    And it wasn''t just the atmosphere¡ªthere was an actual drop in temperature. E, overwhelmed by her emotions, had subconsciously activated the power of her Vision.


    Ayer of frost even began forming on the floor by her feet.


    "This... this has to be a joke, right?" E''s face darkened. "Tell me... this isn''t true!"


    "This is all my father''s decision," Lucas said, forcing himself to act cold. "I''m sorry."


    "No... no, I know you. You wouldn''t do something like this!" E''s voice trembled with conviction. "There must be some reason behind this, right? Tell me!"


    Looking into E''s tear-filled eyes, Lucas sighed inwardly.


    Though he couldn''t reveal the truth, he also couldn''t let her believe he had truly betrayed her.


    "E, listen to me," Lucas said, grasping her shoulders firmly. "There''s indeed a reason, but I can''t tell you right now. Just know one thing¡ªI haven''t forgotten the promise we made."


    "What''s the reason?" E asked, her emotions calming slightly. "Why can''t you tell me, even now?"


    ----


    Author''s Note: Drama alert... just kidding! No drama here! ??


    Everyone''s favorite dragon waifu will be back soon! ??

 Chapter 77: Villain Simulator, Ch 77

    <h4>Chapter 77: Viin Simtor, Ch 77</h4>


    "I..."


    Lucas was just about to speak when the door suddenly flew open with a loud "bang." A middle-aged man walked in, his face expressionless.


    "Father?" Lucas was slightly startled. The man who entered was none other than his father, Schubert.


    "Uncle, I..." E began to exin, but Schubert shook his head and said, "There''s no need to say anything."


    Schubert ced the key he was holding back into his pocket and said calmly, "This decision is mine. E, this farce between you two has gone on long enough."


    "About this farce between you two," Schubert said coolly, "I''ve always known. Young people tend to do reckless things, and I''ve tolerated it for long enough. But now, it''s time for it to end."


    "This isn''t a farce," E said firmly, her gaze unwavering. "Lucas and I love each other deeply. No matter what, I won''t give him up."


    "Sigh..." Schubert let out a soft sigh, but a wry smile appeared on his face. "I never liked ying the viin who breaks up lovebirds."


    "Then why are you opposing us?" E asked, clearly puzzled.


    "Because, for him, there are more important things to focus on right now," Schubert replied. "I''ll make a deal with you. Five years. No matter what happens, in five years, Lucas will end this marriage. Whatever happens between the two of you after that is your own business."


    Lucas was unexpectedly moved by his father''s words. He had never imagined his normally stern father could show such a gentle side.


    "E, please believe me," Lucas nodded. "I swear on the five-year promise, I will not fail you."


    "At this point, if I keep pushing, it would only make me seem immature." Despite her words, E shot Lucas a disapproving look. "I just hope whatever you''re doing is worth the five-year wait."


    ---


    [Entering text mode...]


    [Age 22: Your political marriage to the Gunnhildr family proceeded smoothly, which only deepened your suspicions. It seemed as if the Gunnhildrs were trying to avoid suspicion by agreeing so easily.]


    [You had no expectations for this marriage. Whether your bride was in or beautiful, you knew you had no choice but to ept.]


    [The wedding wasn''t particrly grand, though both families invited a fair number of prominent figures. You were certain that E would never attend such an event. But to your surprise, you spotted her at the wedding.]


    [She didn''t seem affected at all. Moving gracefully between guests of both families, she looked like just another attendee.]


    [The only exnation you could think of was that she hade to witness your humiliation. After all, E''s beauty was renowned throughout Mondstadt. No matter how attractive your bride might be, she would surely pale inparison to E.]


    [Finally, as the wedding music began, youid eyes on your bride for the first time. To your shock, it was none other than Jean Gunnhildr!]


    [Yes, the very same Jean who had been the WindBlume Festival princess you met as a child.]


    [Her beauty rivaled E''s, though shecked the same level of fame due to her family''s position. You had never expected the Gunnhildr family would offer their eldest daughter to you.]


    [Dressed in her wedding gown, Jean naturally took your arm and, gazing into your eyes, whispered, "I told you we''d meet again, little one."]


    [Compared to your childhood encounter, Jean had matured both in appearance and figure. The wedding gown entuated her perfectly, and not even E''s presence overshadowed her.]


    [Jean seemedpletely at ease. As the main figures of the wedding, you both had to make the rounds. You thought E would seek you out, but before that could happen, Jean led you right to her.]


    ["You must be E," Jean said, raising her ss with sincerity. "My husband has told me how much you''ve taken care of him. Let me offer this toast to you. May you bless our marriage."]


    Offering a toast to your "ex" at your wedding.


    Could there be anything more awkward?


    Even though it was text mode, Lucas felt an intense secondhand embarrassment, like he could dig a hole with his toes and crawl into it.


    ["Of course," E replied gracefully, taking a sip of her wine with a smile. "I wish you both a long and happy life together. May you have many children."]


    [Though E smiled, you clearly saw small cracks forming in the ss she was holding.]


    [As you and Jean prepared to move on, E suddenly called out to you: "Brother Lucas, we were so close as kids. Don''t you want to share a few more drinks with your sister?"]


    [Without waiting for a response, E poured three more sses of wine and downed them in one go. Though conflicted, you stayed and shared three drinks with her.]


    [Thanks to your Never Drunk skill, even three hundred drinks wouldn''t affect you. But watching E force a smile as she drank tore at your heart.]


    [Perhaps trying to drown her sorrows, E drank a lot that night. Though you stayed close to Jean, your gaze never strayed far from E.]


    [As the wedding was winding down, a tipsy E staggered over to you and Jean once more, slurring slightly. "Brother... can you help me to the restroom?"]


    [Faced with her request, your options are...]


    [1. Agree]


    [2. Refuse]


    [3. Ask Jean to take E instead]


    In this situation, refusing would be the polite choice. After all, it was his wedding, and walking off with another woman might look strange.


    But E was like a sister. Refusing her might raise suspicion instead.


    "I''ll agree."


    As soon as Lucas made his choice, a system notification popped up¡ª


    [Forcing entry into immersive mode...]


    Again?!


    How much do you enjoy watching these awkward scenes y out?


    Looking at E''s drunken, hazy eyes, Lucas could only sigh inwardly.


    "Sister E, I''ll help you." Lucas gently supported her, turning to Jean. "I''ll be right back."


    "Alright," Jean said with a kind smile. "Take good care of... our sister."


    For some reason...


    Lucas couldn''t shake the feeling that this version of Jean, in the simtion, had a slightly... mischievous undertone.


    Of course, it might just be his imagination.


    After all, her upbringing in the simtion differed from the real Jean, so her personality was bound to have some differences.


    Lucas quickly brought E to the restroom. But as they approached, E leaned weakly against him, her voice soft. "I can''t walk anymore... help me inside."


    Luckily, the restrooms were unisex single stalls. Though exasperated, Lucas still dragged E''s limp body to the door.


    Just as he was about to close it behind her, E grabbed his wrist and pulled him into the stall with her.


    With a loud bang, the door mmed shut.


    By the time Lucas realized what was happening, he found himself pinned tightly against the stall wall by E''s hands.


    "Huh?" Lucas was stunned, mumbling, "Sister E... what are you doing?"


    "What do you think?" E looked down at him, her cheeks flushed with a rosy tint. "I had to watch my dear little brother be someone else''s ''dear little brother.''"


    "You... you''re drunk," Lucas said helplessly. "I should leave."


    If anyone discovered the groom locked in a bathroom with another woman on his wedding night, rumors would undoubtedly spread like wildfire.


    "Are you kidding?" To Lucas''s surprise, the drunken haze on E''s face disappeared in an instant, the flush retreating as well. "You think I''d get drunk so easily? After years of family events, my tolerance is as strong as steel."


    She was... pretending to be drunk?


    Lucas felt a jolt of nervousness. "E, you know this was all just an act. It wasn''t real."


    "Even if I know that, watching you get cozy with her makes me angry," E pressed a finger to Lucas''s lips, pouting. "Just the thought of you two doing ''this and that'' tonight makes me feel terrible!"


    Indeed, the most awkward thing about a wedding is that every guest knows what happens on the wedding night.


    "Damn, if only your bride were ugly or fat," E said with annoyance. "At least then, I''d feel a bit better about it."


    "It doesn''t matter," Lucas shook his head. "In my eyes, Sister E is always the most beautiful woman."


    "Save that sweet talk for your new bride," E finally calmed down a bit, though she was still irritated. "I''m not that petty. Even if this marriage is a sham, the duties thate with it still need to be done."


    Lucas understood E''s feelings all too well.


    After all, watching the man she loved for years be sent into another woman''s arms would make any woman feel emotional.


    "But..." E''s tone suddenly shifted, her eyes locking onto Lucas with intensity. "If you dare put more effort into being with her than you ever did with me, you''re dead!"


    "Why... why is this such a strangepetition?" Lucas groaned, feeling a headacheing on. "Do you realize I almost blew my cover earlier?"


    "You''re upset over something like that?" E let out augh, her anger starting to fade. "Well then, as your sister, I should make it up to you."


    "Wait... wait a second..." Lucas''s face flushed. "What... what are you nning, Sister?"


    "What do you think?" E adjusted her position, a mischievous smile on her face. "That Gunnhildr woman has been provoking me all night. So, I''ll give her a groom who''s too exhausted to do anything on his wedding night!"


    No way... not here!


    Just as Lucas reached for the door handle, he suddenly heard footsteps outside.


    Crap, I can''t leave now.


    Panicking, Lucas lifted his feet off the ground, hoping the person outside wouldn''t notice the shadow of two pairs of shoes in the stall.


    "Looks like I have no choice..."


    Lucas felt his mind starting to melt.


    Looks like he''ll just have to follow E''s lead...


    ...


    Meanwhile, outside the restroom, a strange-looking girl with a purple pointed hat stood by the door, her face grim as she clutched her stomach.


    "Damn it! I barely managed to sneak into this wedding under the pretense of being an astrologist, and now I''ve got a stomachache from overeating..." the girl muttered, biting her lip. "I can''t help it. I was starving for days, and the food here is just so good."


    Gurgle gurgle...


    Her stomach let out a cute but urgent rumble.


    "It''s been 20 minutes already! Is the person inside constipated or something?" Growing impatient, the girl raised her hand. A circr water mirror formed on the door, slowly revealing the inside of the stall.


    It wasn''t that she had any strange hobbies¡ªshe simply wanted to see what was taking so long.


    However, as the image inside the mirror became clear, the pale-skinned astrologist''s face turned beet red.


    "This... this is Mondstadt?" the girl mumbled. "I guess it really is a city that values ''freedom,'' but this is a bit too free, isn''t it?"


    "Mona?"


    A soft voice suddenly sounded from behind her. The girl named Mona quickly dispelled the water mirror and turned around, trying to hide her nervousness with a smile. "Jean? I... I was just waiting for the restroom."


    Yes, the woman who had appeared behind Mona was none other than the bride of this wedding.


    What should I do?


    Mona felt a wave of panic. Should she tell Jean that her new husband was in the bathroom with another woman...?


    Wait... Mona hesitated. Maybe Jean already knew. After all, noble families haveplicated rtionships. Maybe they liked spicing things up with... these kinds of activities?


    Either way, getting involved wouldn''t benefit her. Better to mind her own business.


    "I''m sorry for the inconvenience. As the hostess, it''s my responsibility," Jean said, bowing slightly. "If you don''t mind, please feel free to use the restroom in my room."


    "Thank you!" Mona quickly nodded.


    What a saint this woman is!


    ...


    Ten minutester.


    "Phew..." Mona sighed with relief as she stepped out of the restroom in Jean''s room. "I feel like I lost two kilograms."


    "Mona," Jean, who had been waiting outside, spoke with a subtle expression. "I heard you''re quite a skilled astrologist. Would you mind performing a reading for me? I''m curious about how my marriage will turn out."


    At this, a cold sweat formed on Mona''s forehead.


    ---


    Author''s Note: I understand that many of you haveins about the extended simtions. I appreciate your feedback and will do something about it in future Chapters. If you have any ideas or suggestions, feel free to join my Discord.


    P.s Where did the miners go? We are out of stones! Get us to 2400 for 4 more extra chaps tomorrow!

 Chapter 78: Villain Simulator, Ch 78

    <h4>Chapter 78: Viin Simtor, Ch 78</h4>


    This kind of situation hardly needed divination to foresee the oue¡ªafter all, it was only the first day of marriage, and her husband was already with another woman...


    "My divination is quite urate," Mona said seriously, "but I''m not the type of astrologist who would distort the results just to please others. Even if the oue isn''t what you expect, I will tell you the truth as it is."


    She paused, looking directly at Jean. "Are you sure you want to proceed with the reading?"


    Jean hesitated for a moment but then solemnly nodded and said, "I''ve made up my mind. Please, proceed with the divination."


    Though she could be unreliable in her daily life, when it came to fortune-telling, Mona was always serious. She quickly performed her divination, and before long, she had the results.


    "So, this is our fate?" After hearing Mona''s reading, Jean gave a faint, sad smile. "Thank you."


    "You''re the first person who''s ever thanked me after hearing the truth," Mona said, clearly moved by the result. "Most people get angry when the reading isn''t what they wanted to hear. Some even call me a witch."


    "Let''s go," Jean said softly. "After all, I''m the bride. I can''t disappear for too long."


    Watching the expression on Jean''s face, Mona thought about the "secret" she had seen earlier through the water mirror at the restroom. For a moment, she considered telling Jean the truth but ultimately held back.


    After all, the old woman who trained her had taught her one useful lesson outside of astrology¡ªnever meddle in other people''s business.


    ...


    On the other side, after an intense "battle," Lucas finally left the cramped restroom.


    Clearly, E had made sure Lucas wouldn''t have a shred of strength left for Jean, which left him feeling slightly helpless.


    "Where have you been, Lucas?" A hand pped down on Lucas''s shoulder. "My foolish daughter has been looking for you everywhere."


    The man standing behind Lucas was a middle-aged man with an elegant demeanor. His golden hair was tied into a long braid behind his head, and he wore sses that gave him a refined appearance.


    This man was none other than Jean''s father¡ªSeamus Gunnhildr.


    ording to Lucas''s intel, his real name was Seamus Pegg, who had married into the Gunnhildr family. His wife had been the head of the Gunnhildr family, but she had sufferedplications during the birth of their second daughter. The baby had died young, and the trauma from that event had left her bedridden ever since.


    For the past twenty years, Seamus had been acting head of the family, and it was he who had arranged Jean''s marriage to Lucas.


    "F-Father-inw," Lucas felt a bit nervous but quicklyposed himself. "Sorry, I drank too much earlier and had to go to the restroom for a while."


    "It''s normal to be nervous on your wedding day," Seamus said with a gentle smile. "Seeing you reminds me of myself on my own wedding day. It was the happiest day of my life. I hope you... will love Jean as much as I loved her mother."


    "Of course. Marrying someone like Jean is an honor," Lucas said, forcing himself to say the right words.


    If the Gunnhildr family was indeed the mastermind behind the "Millennium Lie," then Seamus would certainly be involved. However, Lucas found it hard to imagine that this soft-spoken man could be behind such a devious plot.


    ...


    Soon, the wedding concluded, and the guests gradually began to leave.


    Lucas was now faced with what was probably the most challenging part of this immersion mode.


    He looked at Jean, who was sitting on the edge of the bed, her cheeks flushed from the wine she had drunk. Lucas couldn''t help but feel a mix of emotions.


    "Why are you just standing there like a piece of wood?" Jean patted the space next to her on the bed, her tone gentle. "Come, sit closer to me."


    For some reason, despite being known as the "Smiling Reaper" who had interrogated countless heretics, Lucas found himself feeling a little nervous.


    Jean tilted her head slightly and asked, "You don''t look well."


    No wonder. After all, Lucas had just been thoroughly "dealt with" by E not long ago... and not just once.


    Given her vengeful nature, E hadn''t left even a trace of energy in him for Jean.


    "Jean," Lucas said as he sat beside her, his tone calm. "We both know this is just a political marriage. If you don''t want to go through with anything tonight, I won''t force you."


    It wasn''t that Lucas was particrly noble¡ªit was just that, thanks to E, he was currently in "sage mode."


    No worldly desires at the moment.


    "Are you nning to make me a widow on my wedding night?" Jean leaned against Lucas''s shoulder and whispered softly, "Don''t me yourself. I''ve already epted my fate. At least you''re not some balding old man or a bloated lord. I consider myself lucky."


    "I..." Lucas began, but Jean''s tenderness overwhelmed him before he could finish.


    "Don''t ruin the mood, okay?" Jean said gently. "Just like when we first met¡ªleave everything to me, little brother."


    "Jean..."


    At that moment, Lucas felt as if he had gone back to the day when he had first caught the feather as a young boy.


    ---


    [Talent "First ss of Red Wine" activated: Agility increased by 75%.]


    [Switching to text mode...]


    [Age 23: A year has passed since you moved into the Gunnhildr family estate. During this time, you''ve been searching for any connections between the Gunnhildr family and the "Millennium Lie," but no solid evidence has surfaced.]


    [To avoid suspicion, you''ve had to maintain the appearance of a loving couple with Jean.]


    [Of course, this hasn''t been difficult for you. Jean seems to genuinely like you. You must admit, she''s an ideal wife¡ªgentle, kind, and highly capable.]


    [In public, she''s a perfect representative of the Gunnhildr family. In private, she''s a wife who fulfills your every need.]


    [There have been times, even once or twice, where you''ve thought to yourself that if not for the weight of your responsibilities, spending your life with Jean wouldn''t be so bad after all.]


    [Age 24: However, as an enforcer, you can''t forget the reality. Rafal''s information provides a key breakthrough. You discover that many others like him have risked their lives in pursuit of "knowledge."]


    [Handling them proves to be much more difficult than dealing with simple rebels. After all, their research into history doesn''t technically break Mondstadt''sws.]


    [Public opinion continues to swell, and enforcer operations increasingly face resistance. In one instance, during an arrest, a citizen resisting capture was identally killed, further inming anti-Lawrence sentiments.]


    [This event triggers a surge of unrest against the Lawrence family. Around this time, an underground book titled "The Millennium Lie" begins circting among the people.]


    [The book Millennium Lie recounts a history vastly different from the epted one. Its contents are even more exaggerated than the real history.]


    [In this version, the Lawrence family''s ancestor, instead of being the hero Kreuzlied who resisted the dragon and saved Mondstadt, is depicted as a tyrant¡ªEberhart¡ªwho oppressed the people.]


    [His crimes are countless, including implementing the shameful "First ss of Wine Decree" and colluding with the evil dragon Ursa to brutally kill Mondstadt''s hero, Vennessa, who led the rebellion against the nobles.]


    [This book not only ims to present the "true history" but also cites numerous sources, making it appear even more credible.]


    [The publication of Millennium Lie dealt a massive blow to the Lawrence family. The current family head was so outraged by its contents that he fell gravely ill, forcing E Lawrence to take over in this time of crisis.]


    [Many believed that this young woman wouldn''t be able to handle the situation, but E quickly proved them wrong with her decisive actions.]


    [First, she dered Millennium Lie a banned book, ordering all copies to be confiscated and burned, and made the possession of the book a criminal offense.]


    [Although these actions did not resolve the underlying tensions, they temporarily stabilized the Lawrence family''s rule.]


    [Due to secrecy, only the heads of the Lawrence family had ess to the full list of enforcers. After bing head, E discovered your name on the list.]


    [Upon learning this, E immediately sought you out, asking whether your marriage to the Gunnhildr family was part of an investigation into them.]


    [After two years of being undercover in the Gunnhildr family and earning theirplete trust, there was no longer any need to hide the truth from E. You revealed everything to her.]


    [You expected E to be thrilled by the truth, but she remained calm. It seems that her sharp mind had already suspected something.]


    [Thus, the two of you agreed to continue your investigation, with one of you operating openly and the other in secret, to uncover the mastermind behind Millennium Lie.]


    ["Don''t think that using your mission as an excuse will let you do whatever you want," E said, unable to resist adding a final remark before parting. "I''ll remember this grudge, and when this is all over, you''ll spend the rest of your life making up for everything you owe me."]


    [By this time, E was 27 years old. Her dream of bing the family head had never been about power or status¡ªit was so she could be with you openly.]


    [She had devoted her life to this cause, and you knew you had no right to disappoint her.]


    [Age 25: Outwardly, you maintained the appearance of a loving husband with Jean, but in secret, you continued to gather information, especially concerning her father, Seamus Gunnhildr.]


    [There were many suspicious things about Seamus. For instance, he disappeared for a period every week, and for the past three years, he had been the only one taking care of his bedridden wife. Even Jean herself hadn''t been allowed to see her mother.]


    [Meanwhile, E had made a risky decision to preserve the Lawrence family''s rule¡ªshe formed a secret alliance with the Fatui, who were stationed in Mondstadt''s embassy. Their methods were far more effective at rooting out heresy, though certainly not legal.]


    [E''s hardline policies sparked considerable dissent within the Lawrence family. Many believed that she was betraying the family''s traditions, especially by coborating with outsiders.]


    [But E stood firm, knowing that soft measures wouldn''t pacify the people of Mondstadt. No matter the cost, this farce had to end.]


    [At the same time, you noticed that Jean''s condition was deteriorating. One day, she confided in you, saying she missed her mother terribly and asked if you could help her sneak into her mother''s room just to see her, even for a moment.]


    [In the three years of your marriage, Jean had never asked you for anything. Faced with this request, you decided...]


    [1. Agree]


    [2. Refuse]


    "Agree."


    Lucas''s intuition told him that this could be a turning point.


    [Taking advantage of Seamus''s absence, you and Jean sneaked into her mother''s room. As expected, the door was locked, but Jean had prepared for this. She pulled out a key she had made in advance and opened the lock.]


    [The room was simple and cozy, and at first nce, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. But what puzzled you was that there was no sign of Jean''s mother.]


    [However, as an enforcer, you quickly discovered a hidden mechanism in the room. After all, you had encountered many secret rooms used to hide illegal things during your investigations.]


    [Feigning casualness, you triggered the mechanism, and with the sound of gears turning, a section of the wall flipped open. What you and Jean saw behind it shocked you both.]


    [Inside arge ss container was the corpse of a woman. She had been dead for quite some time, but the preservatives in the fluid had kept her body from dposing.]


    [Jean broke down immediately. The body in the container was her mother, who she had believed had been bedridden for years. In reality, she had been dead all along.]


    [Her father hadn''t told anyone about her death, not even Jean. Worse, he had preserved her corpse in this grotesque manner.]


    [Just then, you heard footsteps approaching the room. You quickly reset the mechanism and pulled the dazed Jean into a closet to hide.]


    [Judging by the sound of the footsteps, you instantly recognized them as Seamus''. He didn''t seem to notice anything amiss and soon, you heard the mechanism activate again.]


    [Then, you and Jean overheard a bizarre conversation.]


    ["Dear, how are you feeling today?"]


    ["Much better. The doctor says I might be able to get out of bed soon."]


    ["That''s wonderful! I have good news¡ªour n is progressing smoothly."]


    ["Really?"]


    ["Yes, Lawrence won''tst much longer. Soon, I''ll restore the Gunnhildr family to its former glory. When that timees, you''ll be the true queen of Mondstadt!"]


    ["You''re amazing, my love. I''m so happy. Can you kiss me?"]


    [Then you heard the sound of a kiss, though it was clearly just the sound of lips pressing against ss.]


    [What made this conversation truly creepy was that Seamus was speaking both parts, as if ying both roles in the conversation himself!]


    [You never imagined that the normally gentle and refined Seamus had such a dark side. Of course, the person more shocked than you was his own daughter. You had to cover her mouth tightly to prevent her from crying out.]


    [After Seamus left the room, you and Jean cautiously sneaked out.]


    [You brought Jean back to your room, and it took her a long time to calm down. You wanted to say something tofort her, but she spoke first: "You''re an enforcer, aren''t you? The reason you married me was to investigate the Gunnhildr family and its connection to Millennium Lie, right?"]


    [Faced with Jean''s question, your choices are...]


    [1. Deny everything]


    [2. Silently confirm]


    "I..." Lucas hesitated for a moment before replying calmly, "Confirm."


    [You silently nodded, and Jean didn''t seem surprised by your admission. "Father once told me to y the role of a good wife. I always knew he wanted to restore the Gunnhildr family''s former glory, but I never thought he had be so twisted."]


    [Jean hoped you could stop Seamus''s n and told you that he regrly held secret gatherings to recruit followers. She gave you the time and location of the next meeting, asking you to put an end to it all.]


    It seemed that Seamus had likely been suspicious of Lucas''s true motives from the start, which was why he was willing to marry his daughter off to keep Lucas in check.


    But he probably never imagined that even his own daughter would betray him.


    [Although you weren''t certain if Jean''s information was reliable, trusting her posed no real risk to you. You promised her that you would do everything in your power to spare Seamus'' life.]


    [For this mission, you nned carefully. First, you arranged for enforcers toy in ambush around the meeting site. Then, you disguised yourself as a follower to infiltrate the gathering and gather evidence. That way, even if your cover was blown, you could still escape unharmed.]


    [Just as Jean said, you noticed people slowly arriving at the meeting location¡ªa long-abandoned church. It wasn''t difficult for you to knock out one of the followers and take their ce, slipping into the group unnoticed.]


    [The leader of the gathering was, as expected, Seamus Gunnhildr. He stood on a raised tform like a pope, passionately speaking about the contributions the Gunnhildr family had made a thousand years ago to overthrow tyranny.]


    ["The Lawrences are deceivers! They''ve deceived Mondstadt for a millennium, stealing the fruits of justice!" Seamus spoke like a born orator, his voice full of fervor. "Do they think we''ll remain fools forever? No! We will fight for the truth! Long live the truth!"]


    [The crowd erupted in a chant of "Long live the truth!"]


    [You couldn''t help but think of Rafal, who had spent his entire life chasing the "truth," only to have it be a tool for others to exploit.]


    So they''re wrapping their own selfish interests in the guise of "truth"? What a twisted argument.


    ["But," Seamus''s tone suddenly changed, turning cold, "there''s a heretic among us tonight!" He paused for dramatic effect. "My dear son-inw, don''t you think it''s time to reveal yourself?"]


    ---


    Author''s Note: Creepy old man...

 Chapter 79: Villain Simulator, Ch 79

    <h4>Chapter 79: Viin Simtor, Ch 79</h4>


    [Entering immersive mode...]


    Before Lucas could react, Seamus suddenly raised his arm. What had been a thin, frail limb rapidly expanded into a monstrous ck w, resembling that of a beast, which he swung at Lucas with terrifying force.


    A powerful gust of wind sliced through the air, instantly shredding the cloak Lucas had used for his disguise into pieces.


    "I never imagined that even my dearest daughter would betray me," Seamus said with a calm smile. "But no matter¡ªshe will understand my intentions eventually. Everything I''ve done has been to fulfill her mother''s wish."


    "Her mother is dead," Lucas said coldly. "You talk to a corpse every day¡ªhave you really convinced yourself otherwise?"


    "Shut up!"


    Seamus, who had maintained a smile all along, suddenly flew into a rage upon hearing Lucas''s words. "My wife is still alive! Her greatest wish was to see the Gunnhildr family restored! Once I fulfill her wish, she''ll recover from her illness!"


    But then, Seamus''s expression shifted abruptly, and he spoke in a different voice, mimicking his wife''s tone: "Darling, don''t be angry. I see everything you''ve done for me."


    Just as he had in the room before, Seamus started ying both parts of the conversation, impersonating his wife and speaking to himself. The scene was eerily unsettling.


    "It''s all over," Lucas said tly. "My men have surrounded this ce. Once you admit your guilt, this farce wille to an end."


    "You mean these men?" Seamus pped his hands softly, and the church doors suddenly swung open. A group of followers entered, each carrying a severed head in their arms.


    The heads belonged to Lucas''s enforcers¡ªthe very ones he had carefully stationed around the church beforehand.


    But those enforcers had been handpicked elite troops. There was no way ordinary followers could have overpowered them.


    Even if they were somehow outmatched, it should have been easy for them to retreat and report back. How could they have all been killed here?


    "Did you really think I''d rely solely on ''truth'' to overthrow your family?" Seamus sneered, his face now showing a faint pattern of scales, and his vertical pupils glowed with murderous intent. "I and my followers have already been infused with the Dragon''s Scales. Now, witness our power!"


    The Dragon''s Scales?


    Lucas froze for a moment.


    In this simtor world, dragons were supposed to be extinct. There shouldn''t be any trace of them left.


    As Seamus finished speaking, the followers removed their hoods, revealing grotesque transformations on their faces and bodies. They had all undergone mutations, and they now surrounded Lucas, their eyes filled with predatory intent.


    Although Lucas was strong, he didn''t have the overwhelming power he once wielded in his past life. The mutated followers possessed inhuman strength, and after a grueling battle, Lucas eventually sumbed to his injuries, copsing to the ground, gravely wounded.


    Was this how this simtion would end...?


    "Truthfully, I don''t want to kill you," Seamus said, standing over Lucas. "After all, Jean loves you so dearly. But your existence is a hindrance to me. Don''t worry, though¡ªI''ll give you a glorious death, as a sacrifice to our great Dragon God!"


    Dragon God...?


    Upon hearing these words, Lucas felt a sharp pain in the back of his head, and his consciousness faded.


    ...


    "Ugh..."


    Lucas slowly regained consciousness, unsure how much time had passed. He hadn''t returned to the real world, nor had the system finalized his death.


    So... I''m not dead yet?


    Lucas nced around and was shocked to find himself inside a vast temple. The dim glow from candles lit the walls, which were inscribed with ancient symbols resembling some sort of incantation.


    A faint, metallic smell of blood hung in the air. In a corner not far away, the remains of various creatures were scattered about¡ªlivestock like cattle and sheep, as well as... human bones.


    "Offerings to the Dragon God..." Lucas muttered to himself, recalling Seamus''s words. "Are they nning to feed me to something? But what exactly is this Dragon God, and where does their strange powere from?"


    Just then, a deep growl echoed from the depths of the temple. A dark shadow darted toward Lucas, knocking him to the ground before he could react.


    Pinning him down was a massive ck-purple dragon-like creature... and it seemed oddly familiar.


    "Roar!"


    The ck dragon roared and opened its jaws wide, seemingly about to bite Lucas''s head off. But just as its teeth were mere inches from him, it stopped abruptly.


    "Sniff sniff..."


    The dragon, which had been ferocious a moment ago, suddenly started sniffing Lucas''s face like a curious puppy. Then, it extended its tongue and gave him a gentle lick.


    At that moment, Lucas''s memories clicked into ce, and he recognized the dragon from his past life. "You''re... Ursa?"


    Yes!


    It was the fearsome dragon Ursa!


    Even though Lucas had reincarnated, he remembered this creature clearly.


    However, Ursa seemed smaller than before, which was probably why Lucas hadn''t recognized it at first.


    Upon hearing its name, the dragon''s eyes filled with tears.


    Then, Ursa''s body began to emit a faint glow. When the light faded, standing before Lucas was the familiar figure of a ck and purple-haired dragon girl.


    Since Ursa had knocked Lucas down earlier, she was still sitting on top of him.


    "I''ve finally... found you!" Ursa''s thick tail wagged energetically like a long-lost pet reunited with its owner. "That green guy didn''t lie to me after all!"


    "The green guy?" Lucas was still bewildered by the situation. "What''s going on? And why are you here?"


    Even though Lucas had reincarnated, his appearance and scent remained quite simr to his previous life, so it wasn''t surprising that Ursa had recognized him.


    "Well, using human terms... it''s a long story," Ursa said, preparing tounch into a lengthy exnation. "A thousand years ago¡ª"


    "Uh, could you get off me first?" Lucas interrupted, his face turning a bit pale. "I''m having trouble breathing."


    Although Ursa had taken on human form, her tail alone weighed as much as her entire body, making it hard for Lucas to breathe.


    "How is that possible?" Ursa tilted her head. "I used to sit on you like this all the time, and you were fine."


    That was true. Back then, it wasn''t just sitting¡ªthere were plenty of times when they would "ride" together, so to speak.


    But in his past life, Lucas had been far stronger, capable of handling Ursa''s yful roughhousing.


    "Could it be..." Ursa blushed, looking a bit embarrassed. "Have I... gained weight?"


    That wasn''t the issue at all. From Lucas''s perspective, her slender waist and defined abs showed no sign of excess weight.


    "No, it''s me," Lucas admitted with a sigh. "I''ve been reincarnated as a human. All my previous powers are gone."


    "It doesn''t matter!" Ursa chirped, unfazed. "I''ll protect you, just like I always did."


    "Anyway," Lucas said, still trying to make sense of things, "tell me what happened."


    "Around a thousand years ago, after you died, I wandered aimlessly around Teyvat. I didn''t know what to do," Ursa began, helping Lucas to his feet. "But to keep the Mondstadt people in check, I would still fly back asionally. Even though I stopped eating people, they were still terrified of me."


    "Who wouldn''t be?" Lucas said with a wry smile.


    Ursa continued, "Then, that green guy... Barbatos, he found me and offered me a deal. He told me that if I agreed to be sealed in this temple for a thousand years, I''d get to see you again!"


    "Wait!" Lucas suddenly realized something was off. "You''re telling me that wasn''t just his way of tricking you into being sealed?"


    After all, Barbatos had been known for pulling tricks¡ªhe''d even faked contracts in the name of the Geo Archon. It wasn''t far-fetched that he''d trick Ursa into a seal to prevent her from causing trouble.


    "Of course I had my doubts!" Ursa''s face turned red, her eyes shifting nervously. "I''m not that stupid!"


    "But... since you''re here now," Lucas''s gaze softened, "I guess you agreed to the deal, didn''t you?"


    "Being sealed here for a thousand years was boring, but I wanted to see you, so it was worth it."


    "Not being able to fly across the skies was frustrating, but I wanted to see you, so it was worth it."


    "Not getting to taste all the delicious food of the world was painful, but I wanted to see you, so it was worth it."


    Ursa''s excitement poured out as she spoke rapidly. "Didn''t you tell me that all trades need to be fair exchanges? For me, even if there was only a tiny chance of seeing you again, a thousand years of waiting was truly worth it!"


    Hearing this, even Lucas, whose heart had grown cold and calcting over the years, felt his eyes sting with emotion.


    "Are... are you crying?" Ursa asked cautiously.


    Lucas shook his head


    "It''s just the rain."


    "Liar!"


    Ursa, showing no concern for sparing Lucas''s dignity, shot back, "There''s no rain inside this temple."


    "So, you''ve been here for a thousand years?" Lucas nced around, confused. "But there''s no food or water here. How have you survived?"


    "Barbatos cast some forbidden spells on this temple," Ursa pointed at the inscriptions on the walls. "While I''m in this space, my metabolism slows down significantly. And besides, I''m a dragon. Even if I didn''t eat for hundreds of years, I wouldn''t starve."


    "What about those remains?" Lucas suddenly recalled something important. "And why are you being referred to as the ''Dragon God'' by Seamus?"


    "Because of the contract I made with Barbatos, I can''t leave this temple. But humans cane and go freely," Ursa exined as she stroked her chin, recalling. "About twenty years ago, a human couple identally stumbled in here. While I don''t need to eat, I did feel like indulging myself..."


    "I was about to devour them," she shrugged, "but the man begged for mercy and promised to bring me food regrly if I spared them. So, I held his partner hostage until he brought me something to eat."


    "Wait..." Lucas''s eyes narrowed. "That man... was Seamus, wasn''t he?"


    "Yeah, I think that''s his name," Ursa nodded. "He kept his word and brought me some cows and sheep. I had a feast. You told me before that in human society, people pay for meals, but I didn''t have any money. So, I gave him a little gift."


    "A gift?" Lucas quickly asked.


    "A scale, of course," Ursa said casually. "You know how valuable dragon scales are. They''re rare enchantment materials. Even regr armor and weapons, once embedded with a dragon scale, be priceless equipment."


    "And..." Lucas muttered, his thoughts racing, "what if those scales were embedded... inside a person?"


    "Huh?" Ursa blinked, caught off guard. "I never thought about that. It''d probably hurt a lot, I guess?"


    "I think I understand now..." Lucas nodded thoughtfully. "Keep going."


    "After I ate, I let them go. I figured that would be the end of it. But a few monthster, that man came back with more livestock¡ªchickens, ducks, cows, you name it," Ursa licked her lips as she remembered. "He said he''d continue bringing food if I gave him more scales from time to time."


    "Since dragon scales are like human nails and grow back, I agreed. Even though I don''t need to eat, I still enjoy it."


    It seemed Seamus had lucked out by stumbling upon Ursa''s weakness¡ªher love for food. As long as she was fed, she was willing to part with dragon scales, even if they were immensely valuable.


    "Not only that, he seemed to respect me greatly," Ursa added, clearly pleased with herself. "Sometimes he''d ask me questions. If I knew the answers, I''d tell him. If not, I''d just make something up."


    "Wait..." Lucas''s heart sank. "You told him about the events that happened in Mondstadt a thousand years ago, didn''t you?"


    "Of course! Especially the time we attacked the city together!" Ursa said excitedly. "I told him that story so many times!"


    Great! Mystery solved!


    No wonder the content in The Millennium Lie felt so authentic.


    It came directly from the source... or rather, from the dragon''s mouth!


    Lucas quickly pieced everything together.


    Twenty years ago, Seamus, after marrying into the Gunnhildr family, stumbled upon Ursa''s temple by ident. He struck a deal with the dragon, trading food for her scales.


    Later, Seamus learned the truth about what happened a thousand years ago from Ursa herself. He realized that this information could be used to overthrow the Lawrence family and restore the Gunnhildr family to power. With the added strength granted by Ursa''s dragon scales, Seamus began to prepare.


    For the past two decades, Seamus had been carefully setting his n into motion. Now, public opinion in Mondstadt had reached a boiling point, and his "Dragon Scale Army" was likely ready.


    At any moment, Seamus couldunch a rebellion to overthrow the Lawrences, putting E, Lucas''s family, and everything he held dear in grave danger.


    "Ursa!" Lucas suddenly snapped to attention. "We need to get out of here immediately! Can you take me out?"


    "I told you, I''m bound by my contract with Barbatos," Ursa shook her head. "I still have three more years before the contract ends."


    "Three years?" Lucas rubbed his temples in frustration. "Seamus could have taken over Mondstadt by then... I can''t wait that long!"


    Lucas rushed to the temple''s grand entrance, attempting to force the doors open. But without his former strength andcking any weapons, he couldn''t budge the massive doors.


    Ursa, bound by the temple''s enchantment, couldn''t help either¡ªshe was forbidden from damaging anything within the temple.


    What should he do?


    ----


    Author''s Note: Seggs?

 Chapter 80: Villain Simulator, Ch 80

    <h4>Chapter 80: Viin Simtor, Ch 80</h4>


    What should he do?


    Suddenly, a sh of inspiration hit Lucas. He grabbed Ursa''s shoulders excitedly and asked, "Ursa, in the past thousand years... have you shed your skin?"


    It was said that dragons would molt when they reached a certain stage of growth or suffered severe damage, allowing their bodies to regenerate and gain a "new life."


    If shedding her skin could repair all the damages to her body, then it might be able to fix what was "broken" too. That would mean Lucas''s special talent, [First ss of Red Wine], could take effect on Ursa once again.


    "I have, yeah," Ursa nodded, tilting her head slightly. "Sometimes, when I get bored, I molt for fun."


    "Perfect!"


    Without hesitation, Lucas began undoing his cor. "Let''s get started then!"


    "S-Started?" Ursa seemed to catch on to what Lucas was suggesting, and her face flushed a bright red. "W-Wait, is this really the time for something like that?"


    "We don''t have time to exin!" Lucas, now taking the initiative, gently but firmly pushed Ursa down onto the ground. His expression was dead serious as he dered, "This is to protect Mondstadt''s future!"


    If Barbatos knew that Mondstadt''s future would be protected in such a way, who knows what expression he would have...


    "Even though I don''t fully understand," Ursa murmured while gazing up at the temple''s ceiling decorations with a slight blush on her face, "it sounds... really important."


    "Protecting Mondstadt''s future... feels so good."


    [Talent: "First ss of Red Wine" activated. Reward: All attributes increased by 200%]


    Lucas''s gamble had paid off!


    Ursa''s molting not only gave him a second chance to absorb her power but also provided a strength far surpassing the first time! The process of absorbing immense power and refreshing abilities through molting made Ursa a true exploit of the [First ss of Red Wine] ability.


    "Fire and Ice Dance!"


    Lucas unleashed both fire and ice simultaneously, sting them against the massive iron doors. The rapid alternation between extreme heat and cold weakened the metal significantly. Seizing the opportunity, Lucas leapt forward and struck the weakened door with all his might.


    With a resounding crash, the door shattered, and the path to freedom was opened.


    "You''re... leaving?"


    Ursa''s voice held a trace of reluctance as she watched Lucas''s figure. Because of her contract with Barbatos, she was bound to remain in the temple for another three years.


    Still, she felt that it was all worth it.


    If she had survived a thousand years of waiting, what was three more?


    "I might know how to free you from this ce," Lucas murmured. "If Barbatos set this seal, I could use his Gnosis to break it. Ursa, where is my old body buried?"


    "You... didn''t you tell me to eat your body?" Ursa replied earnestly. "After a thousand years, whatever I digested is probably fossilized by now."


    "Huh..."


    Lucas''s mouth fell open in shock. "You actually ate it?"


    In reality, the Gnosis of Barbatos¡ªone of the game''s system rewards¡ªwas already in Lucas''s inventory in the real world. But in the simtion, the Gnosis was still housed within Eberhart''s former body.


    Seeing Lucas''s horrified expression, Ursa couldn''t hold back any longer and burst intoughter, clutching her sides. "Of course not, dummy! How could I even eat it? Your body, along with that chess piece-looking thing, is buried in the nest where we first met."


    "You nearly scared me to death..." Lucas said, patting his chest with relief. "If I can retrieve that, I might be able to get you out of here sooner."


    "Really?" Ursa''s eyes lit up with excitement. "Are we going to fight together in Mondstadt, like a thousand years ago?"


    For Ursa, the ruthless carnage of that battle had been one of the highlights of her dragon life.


    "You will have a part to y," Lucas said with a mischievous grin, "and it''s going to be the main attraction of the finale!"


    With the power of the evil dragon, Ursa,bined with Lucas''s newly enhanced abilities, he could easily sweep away Seamus''s forces. But revealing Ursa''s involvement would lend too much credibility to the "Millennium Lie" ims about the Lawrence family.


    Instead, Lucas had other ns to not only win but also clear the Lawrence family''s name once and for all.


    "Father-inw, you think your n is wless?" Lucas stepped out of the temple, a cold smirk on his lips. "Now it''s my turn to strike back!"


    ...


    As Lucas predicted, Seamus had taken advantage of his unconsciousness tounch an all-out rebellion against the Lawrence family. He grandly dered it a "war to overthrow the lies and reveal the truth."


    Thanks to the widespread distribution of "The Millennium Lie," the Lawrence family''s reputation had hit rock bottom. The deceived followers of "truth" rallied behind Seamus in overwhelming numbers, catching the Lawrences off guard.


    Nobles across Mondstadt were forced to pick sides. Even some who had previously allied with the Lawrences switched sides, further weakening the family''s power.


    Though E led a valiant resistance, the Lawrence family''s forces were steadily losing ground.


    However, Lucas didn''t immediately join the war. Instead, he sought out another group for help.


    At the Goth Grand Hotel.


    Even though the civil war raged across Mondstadt, this hotel¡ªessentially the Snezhnayan Embassy¡ªremained untouched. Neither the Lawrence nor Gunnhildr family dared to provoke the Fatui stationed there. Even a single arrow striking the hotel''s window would be considered a deration of war against Snezhnaya.


    "Fascinating," said a handsome, orange-haired man standing by the window, watching the battle unfold below. "This so-called ''war'' in this country is less impressive than a military drill in my school days."


    This man was none other than Tartaglia, the Eleventh Harbinger of the Fatui.


    "Are you talking about the second-year drill?" A light, teasing voice came from behind him. "I remember that ended with everyone brawling shirtless. Poor Tonia was scared out of her wits."


    "Haha, good times!" Tartagliaughed, turning to face the man sitting behind him¡ªLucas. "I''ve been in Mondstadt for over a month now, and you only just came to see me. That''s not very friendly, now is it?"


    Indeed, Tartaglia had arrived in Mondstadt over a month ago, even sending Lucas a letter to arrange a meeting. However, due to various circumstances, Lucas had avoided the meeting until now.


    "You''ve seen the situation outside," Lucas said, shrugging. "If you still consider me a friend, I hope you''ll lend Lawrence some assistance by sending the Fatui stationed here."


    "This is your country''s war, not ours. Snezhnaya can''t afford to intervene," Tartaglia replied with a serious tone. "If Her Majesty the Tsaritsa found out I sent troops for personal reasons, I''d be severely punished."


    "I don''t expect you to help for free." Lucas smiled and handed Tartaglia a document. "This is the defenseyout for Mondstadt. With it, Mondstadt would be like an unguarded infant before Snezhnaya."


    "Mr. Lawrence..." Tartaglia''s expression suddenly became deadly serious. "You realize that by doing this, you''ll be branded a traitor to your nation."


    Though Tartaglia often appeared carefree and nonchnt, when it came to serious matters, he never wavered.


    This was no trivial affair. If word got out, Lucas would truly be branded a traitor for all eternity in Mondstadt.


    "A traitor?" Lucas murmured to himself as if unbothered. "Of all the crimes I''vemitted, this might be the lightest."


    To be honest, handing over Mondstadt''s defense ns to the Fatui was something Lucas''s father, Schubert, had done in the game''s storyline. It seemed Lucas had inadvertently followed in his father''s footsteps.


    "This defense map is merely a bargaining chip for the Tsaritsa," Lucas said calmly. "As long as it''s not activated, no one will know what it contains."


    Tartaglia paused before bursting intoughter. "Haha, that''s just like you, Lucas. Very well, I''ll take this ''defense map.'' If anything goes wrong, I''ll report to Her Majesty that I was just a poor, deceived fool."


    The two men exchanged knowing smiles.


    "You always make sure you get something out of a deal," Lucas sighed. "Now that the deal''s done, send me the troops."


    "I''ve already arranged everything," Tartaglia said with a grin. "In addition, I''ll be sending an officer to assist with the reinforcements."


    "Oh,e on, who do you think you''re underestimating?" Lucas chuckled. "I graduated at the top of my ss from Snezhnaya''s military academy. Leading a squad is no problem for me."


    "I''ll leave it to you two to discuss," Tartaglia said, snapping his fingers. "Lieutenant Tonia,e in."


    As his words fell, the door to the room opened, and a tall, straight-backed female officer in Snezhnayan military uniform walked in, smiling. "Commander, what are your orders?"


    "Tonia?" Lucas''s face lit up with a grin. He stepped forward and threw his arms around her in an excited embrace. "Wow! You''ve moved up the ranks fast!"


    "I could''ve climbed higher," Tonia said, returning the hug. "But to avoid suspicion, I had to take it slow."


    "Don''t make it sound like I held you back," Tartagliaughed. "You''re already the youngest female lieutenant in Snezhnaya''s history. If you stood out any more, I''d have to give up my position as thest Harbinger."


    Laughter filled the room, momentarily taking them back to their days at the Snezhnayan military academy. Though it hadn''t been an easy time, it was one of the few carefree moments in Lucas''s simtion.


    "Thank you, Tonia," Lucas said softly.


    "No need to thank me just yet," Tonia smiled slyly. "I never said I''d help you for free."


    ...


    "Get out of the way!"


    Mondstadt''s once lively and bustling square had be a battlefield between the Lawrence and Gunnhildr families.


    E, wielding a massive greatsword, fought like a valkyrie, fending off waves of enemies. However, the battle was far from fair. The Lawrence family wasn''t just up against warriors from the Gunnhildr family, but also the townspeople Seamus had swayed to his cause.


    E found herself holding back while fighting against the brainwashed civilians. But her enemies showed no such restraint.


    "E Lawrence, whose blood flows with the sins of her ancestors," a voice called out.


    Seamus Gunnhildr, dressed in a white robe, emerged from the crowd, his face adorned with a smile of falsepassion. "There''s no point in resisting any longer. The truth is out for all to see. Your family''s deception can no longer fool the righteous."


    "Seamus..." E''s eyes burned with fury. "Where is Lucas?"


    "Your spy? He''s already paid for his sins. You''ll be reunited with him soon enough."


    "Die!"


    Without hesitation, E gripped her greatsword and leaped toward Seamus, ice gathering around the de to form a massive sword of frozen energy.


    She held nothing back this time.


    However, Seamus simply raised his hands and caught the enormous ice de with ease.


    Twenty years ago, Seamus had already begun enhancing his body with Ursa''s dragon scales. He''d used more than one, granting him strength on par with those who wielded Visions.


    Meanwhile, E was exhausted from hours of continuous fighting, clearly no match for Seamus in her current state.


    With a loud *snap*, Seamus''s dragon-scaled hand crushed E''s ice de into shards.


    "Ha..."


    The impact sent a shockwave through E''s body, causing her to cough up blood. She nted her sword into the ground to steady herself.


    "Everyone, bear witness!" Seamus stood over her, raising an arm. "The sins of the Lawrence family shall be ended here by the Gunnhildrs!"


    Just as Seamus was about to strike, a bullet whizzed through the air, piercing his hand and leaving a gaping hole.


    "Ugh!" Seamus recoiled, but his inherited healing abilities from the dragon scales quickly began to regenerate his hand.


    From dozens of meters away, Tonia stood holding a musket, her voice loud and clear. "Seamus Gunnhildr! I am Lieutenant Tonia of Snezhnaya. Your actions have jeopardized the safety of Mondstadt''s people and its stability... You know what? Forget the speech. Surrender, or the next bullet goes straight through your skull!"


    It seemed her years in Snezhnaya''s military had rubbed off on her, giving her a sharper edge.


    "Snezhnaya?" Seamus''s face darkened. "You have no right to interfere in our internal affairs."


    "Who said they don''t have the right?"


    A figure suddenly dropped from the sky,nding beside E and gently helping her up. "They''re my reinforcements. If you don''t like it, Seamus, go find your own."


    The familiar voice made tears well up in E''s eyes.


    "Sorry I''mte, Sister E," Lucas said with an awkward smile. "I wanted toe sooner, but I got... held up."


    Lucas had expected a long-awaited embrace after their reunion.


    However, E, mustering all her remaining strength, simply gave Lucas a light punch.


    ----


    Author''s Note: If you are getting the Chapterte then me my shitty luck and mobile data as it disconnects every 2 second! Well cuz I am train...


    Anyways MINORS get back to work! We need stones.

 Chapter 81: Villain Simulator, Ch 81

    <h4>Chapter 81: Viin Simtor, Ch 81</h4>


    "I thought... you were dead."


    For the first time, Lucas saw fear on E''s face.


    "How could I be?" Lucas gave a mischievous grin. "Good men die young, but viins... west a thousand years."


    "How..."


    Seamus stared in disbelief at Lucas, who had suddenly appeared before him. "I... I already offered you to the Dragon Lord."


    "Next time, be sure to chop me into pieces before feeding me," Lucas said, stepping in front of E, still smiling. "My life is much harder to take than you think, dear father-inw."


    "Citizens of Mondstadt!"


    Seamus raised his voice, addressing the crowd. "You see? The Lawrence family has not only deceived us, but they''ve also allied with Snezhnaya! We cannot lose! Attack! Att¡ª"


    However, the scene that followed made Seamus''s voice trail off.


    His so-called elite troops, empowered by the dragon scales, were all kneeling in a row, captured by the soldiers of Snezhnaya, waiting for their fate.


    "These guys were indeed stronger than regr people," Tonia said casually, standing at ease, "but against a proper military force? They were just a joke. It didn''t take us even an hour to wrap this up."


    "How... how could it be?" Seamus''s voice became hysterical. "Five hundred dragon-scale-enhanced soldiers... defeated in an hour? Even catching five hundred pigs would take longer than that!"


    Though a bit reluctant to admit it, Lucas knew that in terms of military power, Mondstadt was indeed weakerpared to Snezhnaya.


    Of course, this was partly due to the fact that, in this simtion, Mondstadtcked the force of the Knights of Favonius. In the real world, Snezhnaya wouldn''t find it easy to conquer Mondstadt.


    Otherwise, the Fatui wouldn''t need to trade Mondstadt''s city defense ns with Schubert.


    Those five hundred "dragon-scale soldiers" had taken Seamus twenty years to cultivate, exchanging countless offerings of food to get them from the dragon Ursa.


    These enhanced followers were the core of Seamus''s confidence in overthrowing the Lawrence family''s rule.


    But what Seamus hadn''t anticipated was that Lucas could call in military support from Snezhnaya.


    After all, the Lawrence family didn''t have a good rtionship with the Fatui. The Fatui had repeatedly requested to station troops in Mondstadt, but the Lawrences had always refused.


    "How could this happen..."


    Seamus, realizing he was cornered, took a few steps back, muttering, "This can''t be... I spent twenty years meticulously nning this..."


    "My love, now is not the time to give up!" Seamus began mimicking his wife''s voice again, speaking in a sharp tone. "We still have the Dragon Lord!"


    "Yes!" Seamus''s eyes lit up with renewed hope. "The Dragon Lord will help me. As long as I have the dragon, I will rise again..."


    "The Dragon Lord you speak of..." Lucas pointed to the sky. "Is it that one?"


    A massive shadow appeared on the ground. Countless Mondstadt citizens looked up, only to see a gigantic ck dragon circling in the sky.


    "The... the Dragon Lord!"


    Seamus, seeing the dragon as his savior, shouted, "I''m here! Your loyal follower needs your help!"


    The ck dragon, as if hearing Seamus''s call, slowly descended,nding in front of him.


    The people of Mondstadt were frozen in terror.


    Although many had heard of the infamous "Evil Dragon Ursa," it had always been considered a legend from a thousand years ago.


    In Millennium Lie, it was explicitly stated that Dragon Ursa had been killed by Vennessa and the Gunnhildr family.


    So, no one immediately connected this ck dragon with the ancient evil.


    In fact, some of Seamus''s followers still believed the dragon was his guardian.


    "Of course, I will help you," the ck dragon, Ursa, said in a deep, resonant voice. "After all, we''re partners, aren''t we?"


    "Did you hear that?" Seamus triumphantly dered. "The Dragon Lord is on our side! Justice will never die! The truth will never be defeated!"


    "But... I''m not a ''Dragon Lord''..." Ursa suddenly roared toward the sky, "I am the demon dragon Ursa, and I''m here... to destroy you all!"


    With that, Ursa unleashed a stream of purple-ck mes, lighting up the sky over Mondstadt in a fiery disy.


    Everyone''s faces showed utter disbelief.


    Except for Lucas, who was desperately trying to keep a straight face to avoid bursting outughing.


    The over-the-top acting, coupled with the stilted lines...


    If Ursa didn''t look so fearsome, the whole act would''ve been exposed immediately.


    Yes, the reason Lucas had arrivedte was because he had gone to retrieve his previous life''s body, bring out the "Gnosis" that Barbatos had given him. With it, he had broken Ursa''s seal.


    "I see!"


    Lucas put on a look of sudden realization, pointing at Seamus. "So all along, the ones colluding with the demon dragon Ursa were... the Gunnhildr family!"


    "No... no, I didn''t! I''m not!" Seamus stammered,pletely taken aback by this sudden usation. He stared at Ursa in confusion. "Dragon Lord... why didn''t you ever tell me... that you were the demon dragon Ursa?"


    "Well, you never asked," Ursa replied loudly. "Where is the Lawrence family? A thousand years ago, I was defeated by your ancestors, but today, I will burn you all to ashes with the mes of my vengeance!"


    It finally dawned on the crowd.


    "The Lawrence family didn''t lie to us after all!"


    "They''re the true descendants of the heroes who defeated the demon dragon!"


    "The Gunnhildr family are the real traitors, the ones who sided with the dragon!"


    "Millennium Lie... that''s the biggest lie!"


    The once-loyal followers of Seamus began tearing their copies of Millennium Lie into shreds.


    "Hmph... hahahaha!"


    To everyone''s surprise, Seamus didn''t get angry¡ªinstead, he startedughing. "It doesn''t matter... Dragon Lord or demon dragon, as long as it stands by my side... I am invincible!"


    At this point, Seamus had reached the end of the line.


    The realization that the revered "Dragon Lord" he had worshipped for years was, in fact, the demon dragon Ursa had dealt a severe blow to his mental state. Now, everyone believed that the Gunnhildr family was the one colluding with Ursa, and Seamus''s grand ns had all copsed.


    Since ruling through "faith" was no longer an option, Seamus had only one path left¡ªforce.


    After marrying into the Gunnhildr family, Seamus had been managing family affairs with his wife. Restoring the family''s former glory had been her lifelong obsession. Even on her deathbed, she had yearned for the Gunnhildr family to regain its past brilliance.


    Seamus, deeply in love with his wife, suffered a severe mental breakdown after her death, leading to his split personality, one that embodied his wife.


    But that wasn''t the only cause of his mental deterioration. The prolonged use of dragon scales from Ursa, embedded within his body, had also severely damaged both his mind and spirit. Seamus truly believed that if he restored the Gunnhildr family''s glory, his wife would somehow rise from the dead.


    "Dragon Lord!"


    Seamus''s body trembled as he pointed at his enemies and the terrified crowd, shouting, "Use your dragon breath to purify the souls of these rebels!"


    Seeing Seamus''s intense reaction, Lucas was reassured. Everything was proceeding ording to n.


    Lucas subtly signaled Ursa, who quickly understood. Her mouth began to glow as she gathered purple-ck mes. "Mondstadt! Lawrence! Taste the mes of my vengeance!"


    A fierce-looking stream of dragon breath shot from Ursa''s mouth.


    Of course, despite its terrifying appearance, the dragon breath was harmless¡ªUrsa had only burped, creating no real damage.


    Lucas stepped forward dramatically, dering, "As a descendant of the Lawrence family, I will never allow you to destroy this city!"


    With a wave of his hand, an ice wall erupted from the ground, instantly blocking the "demonic dragon breath."


    "How... how is this possible?"


    Seeing Ursa''s attack, which he had relied on for twenty years, easily blocked by Lucas, Seamus''s face was filled with disbelief. "The Dragon Lord''s attack was stopped..."


    Seamus wasn''t the only one fooled by this performance. The onlookers, unaware of the truth, were just as convinced. In their eyes, one of the Lawrence family members had just withstood an attack from the very dragon that nearly destroyed Mondstadt a thousand years ago.


    "Go... go get ''em!"


    "Don''t let that dragon win!"


    "Evil will never triumph!"


    Lucas wasn''t sure whether tomend the people of Mondstadt for finallying to their senses orugh at how quickly they switched sides.


    Lucas wasn''t concerned about their opinions, though. The reason he and Ursa were staging this performance was twofold: to solidify the Lawrence family''s rule and, more personally, topletely crush Seamus''s spirit.


    The dragon Seamus had worshiped for decades was nothing before Lucas¡ªnothing would break Seamus more than that.


    "Dragon Ursa!"


    Lucas summoned an ice spear in his hand, pointing it at Ursa. "I will carry on the spirit of Lawrence and defeat you!"


    With those words, Lucas charged toward Ursa, spear in hand.


    Of course, even in his current state, Lucas knew he wouldn''t stand a chance against Ursa''s full power.


    But this battle was purely for show.


    "Raaawrr!" Ursa let out an exaggerated roar, matching Lucas''s attacks with her own. The two seemed evenly matched as they exchanged blows.


    Despite the staged nature of the fight, they couldn''t make it too obvious. If Lucas defeated Ursa in a single move, it would raise suspicion.


    The onlookers were dumbfounded by the "epic" battle. First, there was the terror of seeing the infamous dragon Ursa, and second, the shock that a human could fight a dragon to a standstill.


    Seamus, though powerful due to the dragon scales,cked realbat experience. He couldn''t see through the charade, and actually believed Lucas had been hiding his true strength all along.


    Had Lucas let himself be defeated earlier on purpose, just to investigate the truth?


    But while Seamus remained oblivious, others weren''t so easily fooled.


    On the balcony of the Goth Grand Hotel, Tartaglia (Childe) lowered his binocrs with a grin. "So, even the demon dragon is your ally? It seems my ns to infiltrate Mondstadt will have to be put on hold."


    Behind him, a folderbeled "City Defense ns"y open on a table.


    Much to Tartaglia''s surprise, the folder really did contain Mondstadt''s city defense ns, but they were practically useless.


    After all, Mondstadt''s "defenses" wereughable at best. For an army like Snezhnaya''s, those defenses posed no threat.


    But now, it seemed there were far greater dangers within Mondstadt than its flimsy fortifications.


    With a sharp sh, Lucas''s ice spear collided with Ursa''s ws, sending shards of ice scattering in all directions.


    "Haven''t we finished yet?" Ursa muttered in a low voice. "I''m starting to get hungry."


    Back in Barbatos''s temple, Ursa''s metabolism had slowed to a crawl, and Seamus''s offerings had kept her fed. But now, her ravenous appetite had returned full force after the seal was lifted.


    "Hold on a bit longer," Lucas replied, exasperated. "I''ll treat you to a whole roasted bull after this."


    "Make it a hundred bulls!"


    Ursa''s enthusiasm surged at the thought.


    "Alright, alright." Lucas sighed as a few beads of sweat formed on his forehead.


    It seemed that after all these years, Ursa had learned how to be a bit more demanding.


    He''d have to "educate" this troublesome dragon properlyter on.


    Lucas suddenly leaped back several steps, gripping his ice spear tightly. Ayer of snow and frost began to swirl around him as he gathered energy for a final attack.


    After a brief moment of charging up, Lucas hurled the spear toward Ursa''s chest with all his might.


    "Dragon Spear Strike!"


    The name was something Lucas made up on the spot, but thanks to the elemental effects he conjured, it actually looked quite impressive.


    This final attack would mark the end of their grand performance.

 Chapter 82: Villain Simulator, Ch 82

    <h4>Chapter 82: Viin Simtor, Ch 82</h4>


    The "Dragon Piercing Spear" spun out from Lucas''s hand, dragging along a cold wind as it thrust fiercely towards the demonic dragon Ursa.


    As everyone knows, in certain games, ice-type attacks deal double damage to dragon-type enemies. So, this move wasn''tpletely random.


    Of course, just like the dragon breath that Ursa burped out earlier, this spear that appeared incredibly sharp was nothing more than a shy disy.


    The ice element forming the spear''s body had been diluted by Lucas, making it more like a paper tiger¡ªstrong in appearance, but weak in essence.


    Ursa, on the other hand, was already "bored" and just wanted to wrap things up quickly and get some food. Without hesitation, she raised her chest and directly took the hit from the "Dragon Piercing Spear."


    Among all the times Lucas''s spear had pierced through Ursa, this was actually the least painful.


    The ice spear striking Ursa''s chest felt as if someone had taken a popsicle on a hot summer day and pressed it against her chest.


    With a loud "bang," Ursa''s enormous body was sent flying. After several exaggerated spins in the air, she crashed heavily onto the ground.


    If this were a divingpetition, she might have even scored high marks.


    "Cough!"


    Ursa spat out a mouthful of pre-prepared ck blood, staggering as she rose and pped her wings, quickly soaring into the sky.


    "Damn you, Lawrence! You got lucky this time!"


    Ursa put on a hateful tone as she shouted, "But I''ll be back!"


    With that, Ursa turned and "pathetically" flew off into the distant sky.


    "Trying to escape? Not so easy!"


    Lucas, fully immersed in the act, struck a pose and said, "In the name of the nation! In the name of the people! I''ll execute you!"


    Then, he conjured another ice spear,unching another "Dragon Piercing Spear" toward Ursa''s retreating figure.


    At this point, Ursa was already hundreds of meters high in the air, yet the Dragon Piercing Spear behaved like a homing missile, striking Ursa right in the back.


    The moment the ice spear hit Ursa, it exploded into countless shards of ice, scattering in all directions.


    As for Ursa''s massive body, it vanished from the sky, as if it had beenpletely obliterated by the spear.


    Of course, this was just another magic trick of Ursa.


    At the moment of impact, she had already transformed into her human form, and in the vast sky, her tiny figure was naturally beyond the sight of ordinary humans.


    Watching the imposing demon dragon seemingly shattered by a mere human, everyone on the ground was left dumbfounded.


    No one knew how much time passed before a cry broke the silence:


    "Long live Lawrence!"


    And just like an infectious disease, more and more people began to kneel and cheer in awe.


    The truth from a thousand years ago had finally been "revealed."


    No matter the records or ancient texts, nothing was more convincing than reality.


    Since the descendants of Lawrence had nowpletely destroyed the demon dragon Ursa, it stood to reason that a thousand years ago, it must have been Lawrence''s ancestors who defeated the dragon.


    As for Seamus, he was nothing more than a deceptive viin, trying to overthrow justice.


    Ironically, by this point, the truth from a thousand years ago no longer even mattered.


    Even if Lucas were to dere right now that, in fact, it had been the Lawrence ancestors and the demon dragon Ursa who had massacred ny percent of the Mondstadt people a thousand years ago, it wouldn''t change the current reverence the people of Mondstadt held for him.


    The once-charismatic Seamus had now be the target of everyone''s hatred. Whether it was the citizens who had not participated in the family feud, or the rebels who had followed Seamus, they all now pointed their fingers at this "deceptive" mastermind.


    "Kill this scoundrel!"


    "Traitor! He tricked us all!"


    "Gunnhildr, leave Mondstadt!"


    "No... this can''t be..." Faced with the advancing mob, a trace of fear appeared on Seamus''s face. "My dear, we were so close to sess..."


    "It''s alright, Dear." His voice grew sharper. "I saw all the effort you put in..."


    "Seamus, it''s over," Lucas said as he walked up to him. "I promised Jean I wouldn''t kill you, but... you won''t escape punishment either."


    "I... I''ve indeed lost. But... which version of history is true?" Seamus murmured in a daze. "Could the history that the Dragon God... no, that Ursa told me, be false?"


    "Everything the demon dragon Ursa told you is true. Not only that..." Lucas whispered in Seamus''s ear, "Ursa isn''t dead. She... is my dragon."


    "What..."


    Seamus''s eyes shed with surprise. He tried to speak, but no words came out. In that moment, Lucas had used his hidden fire-element power to burn Seamus''s throat, ensuring he wouldn''t be able to utter another word for the rest of his life.


    Even if his throat were to recover, he would spend the rest of his days only able to converse with his other personality.


    [Entering text mode]


    [You have imprisoned Seamus in a perfect cell... It is the same pce where the demon dragon Ursa was deceived by Barbatos and awaited for a thousand years.]


    [Using the Gnosis, you reactivated the sealing runes. In this ce, Seamus''s metabolism will slow down drastically, which means his lifespan will be greatly extended. Of course, for a prisoner, this is not a blessing but a curse.]


    [Not only Seamus, but also the Gunnhildr family and the nobles who supported them have received their due punishment.]


    [It must be admitted that this deeply rooted rebellion did note without benefits. It allowed the Lawrence family to purge disloyal allies.]


    [The rebels, including the Gunnhildr family, were all stripped of their noble titles. As for Jean, she was granted a pardon due to her role in reporting the situation and also because she was a victim herself.]


    [Of course, the more significant reason is that Jean is now carrying your child, and this "grudge" has left E, who always wanted to outshine others, harboring resentment for nearly a lifetime.]


    [On the other hand, the demon dragon Ursa haspletely disappeared from this world. In her ce, a human girl named "Ursa" has entered your life.]


    [It took quite a bit of effort on your part to exin Ursa''s "secret." Though E was not happy about the addition of another petitor," she did not object.]


    [After all, if she had protested, who knows if this dragondy would have lost control in a fit of rage?]


    [Age 26: E finally married you before turning thirty, stepping into the hall of marriage together. However, it was an unconventional three-person wedding.]


    [The other bride, of course, was the demon dragon Ursa. Although she had no particr attachment to human marriage customs and even found wearing a wedding dress to be quite bothersome, you convinced her to participate by promising a ten-tier wedding cake, which she happily epted.]


    [After the official marriage, E no longer needed to take any precautions with you. Beingpetitive by nature, she seemed intent on making up for falling behind Jean in other ways¡ªlike through quantity.]


    [However, things didn''t go as nned, and it was Ursa who first brought you some happy news.]


    [At first, you noticed something unusual about Ursa, such as how her previously well-defined abs were gradually bing more rounded.]


    [Of course, it wasn''t surprising¡ªthis was the woman whose immense appetite had forced the Lawrence family to hire twice the number of chefs, so gaining weight from overeating was inevitable.]


    [It wasn''t until sheined of a stomach ache and called for a doctor that it was discovered she was, in fact, pregnant.]


    [This news shocked you, as reproductive barriers between species aren''t something that sheer willpower can easily ovee.]


    ---


    [Age 27: Jean gave birth to a lovely daughter for you. Unexpectedly, Ursa, despite being a dragon, also gave birth to a son after only ten months¡ªjust like a human.]


    [Though this half-blood child possessed extraordinary power from a young age, fortunately, he did not show any physical traits of the dragon race.]


    [Still, the fact that both of your "junior wives" gave birth before her increased E''s pressure, but after putting in some extra effort with you, she too finally fulfilled her wish.]


    [Because of her pregnancy, E decided to step down as the family head. Two years ago, after your great victory over the demon dragon Ursa, you naturally became the head of the Lawrence family.]


    [This transition didn''t spark any controversy, after all, the position of family head wasn''t that different whether it was held by you or your wife.]


    ---


    [Age 28: E''s moment of triumph came when, despite her frustration over "being the first wife," she delivered a shocking result¡ªgiving birth to a pair of twins, a boy and a girl, thereby "redeeming her honor."]


    ---


    [Age 29: Your father, Schubert, officially disbanded the "Enforcers" and entered early retirement, though he quickly realized that looking after four grandchildren was far more exhausting than being an enforcer.]


    ---


    [Age 30: The Fatui Harbinger known as "The Fair Lady" lost her title due to an ident, and the person who seeded her was none other than Tonia, who had made outstanding contributions in recent years.]


    [You and Tonia maintained contact. While you could still sense that she harbored some lingering feelings for you, her career remained a priority for her.]


    [You, along with your three wives, traveled to Snezhnaya to attend Tonia''s honors ceremony. Of course, you nned to take this opportunity to do a bit of traveling.]


    [Ursa returned to her old tavern and, without breaking a sweat, shattered your previous drinking record, downing 563 shots of firewater¡ªbeating your "Thousand Cups Without Getting Drunk" achievement.]


    ---


    [Age 33: Even though the children were growing up, E hadpletely lost interest in being the head of the family. Now, her new goal was to nurture these children into the future pirs of the Lawrence family.]


    ---


    [Age 35: Your three wives each yed different roles in raising the children. E took on the strict disciplinary role, Jean provided gentle care, and as for Ursa¡ªmost of the time, she just sat at the table and ate with the kids.]


    ---


    [Age 41: Time passed, and you all entered middle age. Strangely enough, you noticed the passage of time on Ursa as well¡ªshe, too, was aging.]


    [No one knew why this was happening. You spected that it might be due to her prolonged human form. However, Ursa herself didn''t care in the slightest. She was still the same girl who sneaked into the kitchen to steal snacks, though her appetite had also diminished.]


    ---


    [Age 45: Your father, Schubert, passed away. He had dedicated most of his life to working diligently for the Lawrence family, often handling the "dirty work."]


    [Fortunately, hister years were peaceful and happy. When he closed his eyes for thest time, surrounded by his children and grandchildren, you could still see the smile on his face.]


    ---


    [Age 47: Unlike previous generations of the Lawrence family, you did not force the children to undergo a strict "elite education" but instead allowed them to pursue their own interests.]


    [Your eldest daughter inherited Jean''s gentleness and E''s rigor. Her swordsmanship was exceptional, and although she hadn''t earned the favor of a Vision, she was still the best candidate to seed you as head of the family.]


    [Your eldest son, despite being a half-human, half-dragon, with innate strength far beyond that of ordinary people, showed no interest inbat. Instead, he devoted himself entirely to music and poetry.]


    [At high-end banquets and soir¨¦es, the Lawrence family''s young master was rarely seen, but he was a regr at small taverns and busy markets, where his skill with the harp often caught the attention of many young women.]


    [In some ways, he most resembled you in your youth. Though E had herints, you didn''t see anything wrong with this¡ªuntil one day, by chance, you met his poetry mentor, a bard who appeared as a young boy.]


    [Your eldest son proudly introduced this mentor, named "Venti," marveling at his unparalleled skill with the strings. However, from the young bard''s gaze, you detected a hint of mischief.]


    ["It''s fascinating how two Lawrence family heads could govern this city in such different ways. You''ve made Mondstadt a much more interesting ce," Venti said with a low smile. "You''ve changed my opinion of you."]


    ["Is there a chance..." you replied calmly, "that I don''t care about your opinion at all?"]


    ---


    [Age 50: On your fiftieth birthday, you officially passed the position of family head to your eldest daughter.]


    [What''s interesting is that, at the start of your second life as Eberhart, youmitted countless wrongs all for the sake of power and status. Yet now, they have be the things you care about the least. All you want now is to put down the burden and enjoy a leisurely retirement with your family.]


    [Age 51: You had thought your retirement would be spent leisurely, passing the time by birdwatching, fishing, and ying chess. But soon, you experienced the same struggles that your father Schubert once faced¡ªyou had officially be a grandfather.]


    ---


    [Age 53: ying andughing with the children gradually became part of your daily routine. No one would ever imagine that the kind, loving man ying with his grandchildren was once a viin who nearly wiped out all of Mondstadt.]


    ---


    [Age 54: You often told the children stories, especially about your youthful days when you defeated the demon dragon and saved Mondstadt. But they loved ying with Grandma Ursa the most, and their favorite stories were her "demon dragon tales," which were so vivid and real that it felt as if they had truly happened.]


    [Even though her hair had turned white and wrinkles had formed on her face, Ursa''s heart remained childlike. You once thought that her aging was simply a way to live in sync with you all¡ªperhaps she was still that incredibly powerful demon dragon with her long life and strong body.]


    ---


    [Age 61: Ursa fell ill. It happened without warning¡ªshe had been ying games with the children, tripped, and fainted.]


    [The doctor told you that many of Ursa''s organs had deteriorated from old age and that she might not have much time left.]


    [You thought it was some sort of joke. A mighty demon dragon, dying from something like this? But her condition grew worse day by day.]


    [You searched for the best doctors, but nothing helped. Her body became weaker, and she couldn''t even eat the foods she once loved.]


    ---


    [Age 62: One day, Ursa, who had been bedridden for a long time, suddenly got out of bed, looking much better. You thought a miracle had finally arrived. But then, Ursa told you a secret she had kept hidden for many years.]


    [It turned out that her deal with Barbatos all those years ago didn''t just include "waiting a thousand years." There was another condition¡ªafter her seal was lifted, her dragon bloodline would gradually fade away, and she would eventually be human.]


    [Of course, Ursa didn''t hesitate to ept this additional term. In fact, she didn''t see it as a punishment at all, but rather as a reward.]


    [In her past life, she had already experienced the pain of having to watch you grow old and die while she remained ageless. This time, she wanted to live as a human and spend her life with you.]


    [It was then you realized that Ursa''s apparent recovery wasn''t a sign of improvement¡ªit was her final burst of strength before the end.]


    [That very night, surrounded by you and your family, she passed away peacefully.]


    ["Thank you," Ursa said her final words before closing her eyes: "This has been a very, very good life."]


    [You buried Ursa''s body in the nest where you first met her, along with the Gnosis, just like what she once did.]


    ---


    Author''s Note: Ursa.... <i>sob</i>


    Well simtion is ending.. Get us to 500 for an additional Chapter today :)

 Chapter 83: Villain Simulator, Ch 83

    <h4>Chapter 83: Viin Simtor, Ch 83</h4>


    [Age 65: After decades of peace, Mondstadt once again faced disaster. The once-valiant Dvalin, who had fought alongside the Anemo Archon, had now transformed into the Stormterror Dragon andunched an attack on Mondstadt.]


    [Under the leadership of the Lawrence family, Mondstadt began its resistance. However, Stormterror''s power was on par with that of the demon dragon Ursa from years ago. Although your children were formidable, they were unable to secure victory in a short time.]


    [Just as the battle reached a stalemate, you suddenly appeared on the battlefield, an ice spear forming in your hand. Despite your aging body, you unleashed an incredibly powerful elemental force, hurling the spear toward Stormterror.]


    [It was the same "Dragon Piercing Spear" you used against Ursa forty years ago. But this time, it wasn''t just an illusion. As the ice spear flew, it became engulfed in a ring of crimson mes, striking Stormterror in the chest and severely wounding it.]


    [Sensing the immense power and being gravely injured, Stormterror had no choice but to flee from Mondstadt.]


    [You had saved Mondstadt once again, but given your advanced age, the full force of the Dragon Piercing Spear took a significant toll on your body, causing severe bacsh.]


    ---


    [Age 68: Finally, you sumbed to the injuries caused by that bacsh. You knew your time was near. Yet, perhaps because you had already died once before, you didn''t feel much fear about death this time.]


    [You were a tyrant, a butcher with bloodstained hands, a ruthless interrogator, but also a hero who had saved Mondstadt... As youy surrounded by your loved ones, memories from both of your lives shed before your eyes like a carousel.]


    [You held E and Jean''s hands. Their faces had aged, but in your final moments, they seemed to return to their youthful selves. Just as Ursa had said when she passed, this truly was a very, very good life.]


    [You died.]


    [Cause of death: Illness.]


    [Overall assessment: No regrets.]


    [Your rewards have been sent and are ready for you to im.]


    [Please choose one of the following talents: "Eternal Bloodline (Blue)," "Noble Origins (Blue)," or "First ss of Red Wine (Purple)" to be your permanent talent.]


    ---


    This time, there was no need to agonize over the choices.


    [Eternal Bloodline] essentially conflicted with the effect of [Another Chance].


    To be honest, Lucas had thought about what would happen if he chose [Eternal Bloodline] and thenmitted suicide¡ªwould he respawn as a baby in the original world?


    In some ways, it would be like exploiting a bug in the system.


    But then again, heughed it off¡ªhe didn''t have any children anyway.


    As for [Noble Origins], that also seemed irrelevant.


    "I choose... [First ss of Red Wine]."


    [Tsk, so you really want to corrupt the pure maiden saving her first ss of wine for a special asion, huh?]


    "I didn''t have much of a choice, alright?" Lucas quickly defended himself. "The other two are basically only useful in the simtor!"


    [No need to exin¡ªexnations are just excuses.]


    [You have acquired the innate talent: "First ss of Red Wine."]


    As the voice faded, Lucas slowly opened his eyes.


    For some reason, though, this time, after leaving the simtor, he felt a slight wetness in his eyes.


    Even though he knew that everything in the simtor was just a system-generated storyline, Lucas still felt that the emotions of those "NPCs" were incredibly real.


    "You really have impable timing when you wake up," Fischl yawned from her seat beside him. "We''ve just arrived in Mondstadt."


    Lucas stood dazed for a few seconds before he finally pulled himself out of the story in the simtor and recalled the events happening in the real world.


    His convoy had left Dawn Winery and was heading toward Mondstadt.


    Unlike before, this time Lucas had adjusted the time ratio between the simtor and reality, allowing time in the real world to pass more slowly rather than being paused.


    This way, he could avoid wasting time during the bumpy journey.


    To those outside, Lucas, who was engaged in the simtion, appeared as though he were simply asleep.


    "Really?" Lucas was slightly taken aback as he opened the carriage window.


    Sure enough, the convoy had already reached the gates of Mondstadt, where two Knights of Favonius had stopped them.


    "I am Swan of the Knights of Favonius," a polite young man in armor greeted them. "Could the person in charge please register your entry?"


    Lucas had just stepped down from the carriage when Swan suddenly called out, "Lawrence, what are you standing there for? Come over here!"


    Perhaps because he had just exited the simtor and hadn''t fully detached from his role, Lucas instinctively frowned upon hearing the name "Lawrence" and said:


    "Lawrence? Is that a name you can just shout so casually?"


    In the simtor''s story, the Lawrence family held a prestigious position, even among nobles.


    Especially during their prime a thousand years ago, if amoner dared to call out "Lawrence" without using an honorific, they would likely be harshly punished.


    Of course, even outside of noble circles, addressing someone by just their surname, particrly when a subordinate addressed a superior or a junior addressed a senior, was considered highly disrespectful.


    It was like calling your father "Little Guy"¡ªmost likely, you''d get a whipping.


    However, after saying this, Lucas quickly realized something was wrong, but it was toote. Swan looked at him in confusion and said, "I think there''s been a misunderstanding. I was calling the man behind you."


    Lucas turned and saw a blond man with a ponytail walking past him, also dressed in the Knights of Favonius uniform. The man gave an awkward smile and said, "Um, Lawrence is actually my name."


    "Your name is Lawrence?" Lucas asked, puzzled. "Are you rted to the Lawrence family?"


    "No, no, no! My name has nothing to do with the infamous Lawrence family," the knight named Lawrence exined with a wry smile. "Honestly, you''re not the first person to ask."


    "This story goes way back," Swan, seemingly ustomed to the situation, chuckled. "His father is a Fontaine merchant. When he first came to Mondstadt, he made a drunken bet with that cksmith, Wagner. The wager? This guy''s name."


    "Yeah, my father had no idea about the weight behind the name ''Lawrence'' back then, and he actually honored the bet," Lawrence sighed. "Every time he talks about it, he regrets it so much. After all, he was just one drink away from winning. If he had won, Wagner would''ve had to give him his favorite dagger and name it Pink Bunny."


    Lucas couldn''t help butugh to himself.


    Good thing Wagner won¡ªotherwise, his own weapon, Dagger of the Unfilial, might have ended up with a ridiculous name.


    "But you''re pretty strange yourself," Swan rubbed his chin andmented, "Why can''t we just shout ''Lawrence''? After all... they''re descendants of criminals! What good coulde from them?"


    Lucas suddenly remembered that, in reality, the Lawrence family was very different from how they were portrayed in the simtor.


    Since being overthrown by Vennessa''s uprising, their status in Mondstadt had plummeted, and they were now nothing more than despised figures, akin to rats in the street.


    Although he had only yed the role of a Lawrence family member in the simtor, hearing the word "criminal" still made Lucas feel somewhat ufortable.


    "I just think that''s not quite right," Lucas shook his head and said, "The ones who made mistakes were the ancestors of the Lawrence family. If their descendants sincerely repent, shouldn''t they have the chance to redeem themselves? Does the child of a viin have to be a viin too?"


    Swan was surprised that this stranger from Liyue would stand up for the infamous Lawrence family. Frowning, he replied, "In any case, I just don''t like them. Even if a Lawrence family member stood right in front of me, I wouldn''t use any honorifics."


    "Oh, really?"


    At that moment, a cold, aloof voice came from behind Swan: "And how exactly do you n to address me?"


    A tall girl with blue hair stood behind him, staring at the two of them with an icy expression.


    E!


    Lucas immediately recognized her. This was the woman who, in the simtor, had spent an entire lifetime with him.


    Indeed, her appearance, build, and demeanor were all exactly the same.


    "Ca-Captain E!" Swan''s face turned pale with fear. He quickly straightened up and, with utmost respect, said, "I was only joking just now. Please don''t take it to heart."


    "I actually preferred your defiant attitude from earlier," E coldly red at Swan. "Talking behind my back... I won''t forget this grudge."


    Swan''s face turned even more ashen, but he could only ept his misfortune, keeping his mouth shut, lest he say anything else that might offend this descendant of the Lawrence family.


    "You must be the one sent by Yuheng to deliver the equipment," E nced at the convoy behind Lucas and said, "The acting Grand Master is busy with other matters and couldn''t greet you personally, so I''m here in her stead."


    "Y-Yes," Lucas stammered, still staring at E''s face. "I''m Lucas."


    "Do all Liyue men stare at women like that the first time they meet, or is it just you?" E frowned.


    "Sorry" Lucas quickly realized his rudeness and shook his head. "It''s just that... you''re very beautiful."


    "Tch, sweet talker. I won''t forget this grudge, either," E said, though her expression didn''t show any real anger.


    After all, she was still a woman, and beingplimented on her looks did bring her some joy, even if only a little.


    What was stranger still was that, for some reason, this man from Liyue seemed rather pleasing to E''s eyes.


    Besides, what he had said earlier had made her view him in a new light.


    "These are the Grand Master''s guests. No need for registration," E waved her hand. "Follow me."


    Swan and Lawrence immediately opened the city gates, allowing Lucas and the convoy to enter.


    "In that case, I''ll take my leave for now," Fischl said as she stepped down from the carriage, her gaze showing a hint of reluctance. "The crossing of our fates ends here for the time being. But as my loyal subject, you must be ready to heed my summons at any time."


    "What the youngdy means," said Oz, perched politely on Fischl''s shoulder, "is that she hopes you''ll visit her home when you have the time. I''ve already written the address on the note I gave you."


    One had to admit, Oz was incredibly thoughtful.


    "So this chunibyo girl was with you the whole time, huh," E casually remarked. "Seems like your journey wasn''t exactly a rxing one."


    "Rude!" Fischl''s face flushed red as she fumed, "Fine! When the sinner''s blood within you can no longer be hidden, I, the Prinzessin, shall personally deliver your judgment!"


    The words "sinner''s blood" visibly stirred anger in E''s expression. Just as she was about to retort, Lucas spoke up first: "Fischl, calling it sinner''s blood is a bit too much, don''t you think?"


    "You... you!" Fischl became flustered. "How can you take her side when you''re supposed to be my loyal subject?"


    Lucas wasn''t speaking up for E out of some sudden burst of righteousness, it was because of the time they had spent together in the simtor as husband and wife. Seeing her being insulted now made him feel a bit protective, so he had spoken up on her behalf.


    "I get it now!" Fischl nced at E and gritted her teeth as if realizing something. "You... you''ve fallen for this woman, haven''t you?"


    To be fair, setting aside the Lawrence name, E was undeniably a stunning beauty, both in appearance and figure.


    Although Fischl wasn''t bad-looking herself... most men would likely prefer the towering peaks of mountains to the gentle hills.


    When it came to matters of figure, though Fischl oftenforted herself by thinking, "Maybe there''s still room to grow," deep down she knew that achieving E''s level of attractiveness would probably require making a wish to the Abyss¡ªand selling her soul on the side.


    "Isn''t it obvious?" E smirked mischievously, then, with a yful nce, she reached out and gently hooked her arm around Lucas''s. "Most people would know which choice to make."


    "Y-You''re making me so mad!" Fischl, still a young girl at heart and harboring some special feelings for Lucas, stomped her foot in frustration. "I''m not talking to you anymore! Oz, let''s go!"


    Without waiting for Lucas to say anything, Fischl stormed off, not even ncing back.


    But as she walked away, she quietly asked Oz, perched on her shoulder, "Did... did he chase after me?"


    "Forgive me for being blunt," Oz replied in his low, somber tone, sounding almost envious, "but if I were in his shoes, I don''t think I''d be able to move either."


    "You... you can forget about roasted beans this week!" Fischl snapped.


    "What?!"


    ---


    After watching Fischl leave, E quickly released Lucas''s arm, her face slightly flushed. "Don''t get the wrong idea. I just wanted to mess with that little girl. And don''t think that just by saying something nice, you can win me over."


    "I wasn''t trying to win you over," Lucas replied honestly. "I just spoke what I felt. No matter what the Lawrence family did in the past, that was a long time ago. You don''t need to hold yourself responsible for their actions."


    "When I epted the Lawrence family''s teachings and took the Emblem, it became my responsibility," E replied coolly. "But I''ll prove myself in my own way. And don''t act like you know me so well¡ªwe''ve only just met."


    But I do know you!


    He knew how strong-willed she was, what her favorite food was, and even... her preferences in more private matters.


    Lucas knew all of this.


    But he couldn''t say a word... because he knew, deep down, that it was all "fake."


    ---


    Meanwhile, at the Knights of Favonius headquarters.


    "Hah..."


    A girl with a blonde ponytail lifted herself from her desk, wiping the tears from the corners of her eyes.


    "Did I... really doze off?" Jean muttered to herself, confused as she stared at the liquid on her hand. "It feels like I... just had a long, long dream."


    It was hard to believe that she had only slept for half an hour. In that brief time, it felt as though she had lived an entire lifetime in her dream.


    It had been a long and strange dream.


    Unlike in reality, her family, the Gunnhildr family, was not renowned, but instead held a low status.


    Conversely, the infamous Lawrence family had be the most prestigious nobility in Mondstadt.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Looks like E haven''t slept yet...

 Chapter 84: Villain Simulator, Ch 84

    <h4>Chapter 84: Viin Simtor, Ch 84</h4>


    The strangest part was that, in the dream, she had married a member of the Lawrence family along with another women, and one of them was E, whom she had never really gotten along with.


    "It seems I''ve been reading too many romance novelstely, which is why I''m having such absurd dreams," Jean chuckled to herself, mocking the idea. "Sharing a husband with E... that''spletely ridiculous."


    Yes, just like before, Jean had experienced the life within the simtor during her dream.


    It''s worth mentioning that events in the simtor usually affect real people as "vivid and unforgettable dreams."


    Even if the dream onlysted a minute, it could epass an entire lifetime from the simtor.


    Since E hadn''t slept yet, she didn''t have any of the memories from the simtor.


    "But I really envy the dream version of myself," Jean thought, her face blushing slightly as she recalled her dream husband, "being able to meet such a gentle spouse."


    Despite her usual mature andposed demeanor, Jean shared amon interest with many other girls¡ªreading romance novels.


    So, even though her real-life romantic experience was zero, Jean still longed for a sweet and romantic love story.


    What made it even more memorable was that the dream also included scenes of intimacy between her and her husband¡ªso vivid that she could still recall the happiness she felt at that moment.


    This made sense, of course, since, among the vast number of romance novels Jean had read, a few risqu¨¦ ones with explicit descriptions¡ªand even illustrations¡ªhad slipped in.


    Although most of those books had been destroyed by Jean herself as "prohibited material," the content had stayed with her, providing ample "inspiration" for her daydreams.


    Two of those books were still secretly hidden deep in her drawer, only taken out during quiet, lonely nights to relieve some boredom.


    A quick peek... that should be fine, right?


    Jean nervously opened the drawer and pulled out the two novels hidden between the cracks.


    The Mncholy of Young Abin and Heart of the Fountain.


    One told the story of a young man named "Abin" from Liyue and the various women who became his confidantes throughout his life.


    The other was about a boy from Springvale named Finch and his feelings for a spirit who loved "fountains."


    Both had excellent writing and captivating stories.


    Even if the inappropriate parts were removed, they were still worthwhile romance novels.


    Jean opened Heart of the Fountain and started rereading one of its iconic Chapters. Before long, she found herself lost in it, the vivid descriptions of the fountain making it easy for Jean, who had no personal experience in such matters, to imagine the scenes.


    "Later, Finch left his hometown. He never saw the fountain spirit again, nor did he witness a spring as radiant as that night."


    Jean closed the book, her eyes tearing up... and feeling something else stirring within her.


    Each time she reached the end, she couldn''t help but feel emotional... and a bit flustered in other ways.


    One quote from the novel resonated deeply with Jean: "A fountain spirit will only spring forth for one person in their lifetime. Does a human girl only ever fall in love with one man?"


    Will I... ever meet the man who makes my heart race?


    Jean''s thoughts drifted back to her dream, where her husband indeed had the power to make fountains appear.


    Just then, a knock at the door interrupted her daydream.


    "Come in."


    The knock snapped Jean out of her thoughts, and she hurriedly shoved the two forbidden books under her desk in a fluster.


    E walked in, leading a young man dressed in Liyue attire.


    "I''ve brought the person you requested," E stretchedzily, looking somewhat tired before turning to leave. "I''ve got the night patrolter, so I''m off to catch some sleep."


    Few people in the Knights of Favonius would dare to be as casual with Jean as E was, but Jean didn''t mind in the slightest.


    "Greetings, Acting Grand Master Jean!" The young man offered his hand politely. "I''m Lucas, in charge of this escort mission."


    "Nice to meet you, Mr. Lucas..." Jean responded courteously, reaching out to shake his hand.


    However, the moment she saw Lucas''s face, she froze, and her grip unconsciously tightened.


    Luckily, after several rounds in the simtor, Lucas''s physical strength had improved. Otherwise, a normal person might have yelped in pain from the strength of her grip.


    How is this possible?


    Jean''s thoughts were in chaos.


    The man standing in front of her looked exactly like the husband she had in her dream.


    Even his voice and expressions were the same.


    But Jean quickly pushed the idea away, dismissing it as mere coincidence. It wasn''t possible. The man in her dream was just that¡ªa dream. It was pure chance that his appearance resembled someone in real life.


    "Um..." Jean couldn''t help herself and asked, "Are you... married?"


    What a strange question! Why would I ask something like that?


    How rude!


    "I... I''m single," Lucas tilted his head in confusion. "Why do you ask?"


    "Please don''t misunderstand!" Jean quickly tried to cover up her slip-up. "It''s just that Mondstadt''s annual Wine Festival is happening right now, a time when couples enjoy themselves, so I thought... I''d rmend you check it out."


    "Ah, I see," Lucas smiled, not reading too much into it. "It would be nice to go if the Acting Grand Master could apany me, but you''re probably too busy for that, right?"


    Is... is he hinting at something?


    Jean''s heart skipped a beat. She wanted to go with him, but Lucas was right¡ªthere was so much work to be done.


    She wasn''t the type to neglect her duties for personal matters.


    But... her happiness was important too, wasn''t it?


    And this gentle, handsome man from anothernd¡ªhe would be irresistible to Mondstadt''s free-spirited women at the Wine Festival.


    Letting him go alone would be like sending amb to the ughter!


    No, even if she couldn''t go with him, she had to find someone trustworthy to keep an eye on him!


    Jean was a reserved and mature woman, even when meeting someone who stirred her heart. She wouldn''t make her feelings obvious.


    "I''m sorry, I am very busy today," Jean said after a moment of thought, "but since you''re an honored guest of Mondstadt, I''ll arrange for someone to apany you. Please wait a moment; she should be here soon."


    The person Jean had in mind was none other than her younger sister, Barbara. With her by Lucas'' side, no other women would be able to approach him.


    Since Jean had already made her decision, Lucas felt it would be impolite to refuse. So, he nodded and sat across from her in the office, waiting patiently.


    There wasn''t much conversation between them, but the atmosphere wasn''t awkward at all. In fact, it felt rather harmonious and warm.


    It reminded Lucas of their time in the simtor when he and Jean would sit together like this, with him handling family affairs while she quietly read by his side.


    Reality seemed to ovep with the dream for a fleeting moment.


    The sunlight streamed through the window, casting a soft glow over Jean, who appeared almost ethereal in its light. Lucas found himself momentarily entranced by the sight.


    Sensing his gaze, Jean suddenly looked up, and their eyes met, both of them blushing slightly.


    At that moment, Lucas felt something strange under his foot. Perhaps to break the tension, he bent down and said, "Huh, I think I stepped on something."


    He pulled out one of the novels Jean had hastily shoved under the desk and ced it on the table.


    Jean''s face turned pale. Thankfully, the book''s cover looked normal, and the title wasn''t too revealing.


    "This... this looks like a novel?" Jean quickly put on an innocent expression. "I think it might belong to Barbara? She often reads books I''ve never even heard of."


    "I see..." Lucas nodded thoughtfully and asked, "Would it be alright if I read it? I have some time to kill."


    Sweat discreetly trickled down Jean''s forehead.


    This was the third biggest dilemma she had faced this month, right after dealing with the Fatui''s political interference and the "Stormterror Suppression n."


    If she stopped him now, wouldn''t that imply she had already read the contents of those books?


    Right! Jean remembered that although the novels contained inappropriate material, it was mostly in thetter half. If Barbara arrived before Lucas got that far, he wouldn''t see anything inappropriate.


    "Of course, go ahead," Jean nodded nonchntly, trying to remain calm. "But they''re just stories for young girls, so you probably won''t find them interesting."


    Sorry, Barbara, please forgive your sister just this once!


    I''ll get you that spicy meal box you love next time!


    "It''s fine," Lucas replied casually. "I actually enjoy reading."


    With that, he picked up Heart of the Fountain and began flipping through the pages.


    Jean finally breathed a small sigh of relief. After all, Heart of the Fountain was written with a delicate and intricate style, and the plot wasn''t particrly dramatic. Most male readers would probably find it dull after a while.


    However, contrary to her expectations, Lucas seemedpletely absorbed in the story, showing no signs of boredom.


    Not only that, but he was reading at an impressively fast pace. Before long, he had already read through half of the book.


    Jean, pretending to work, felt her heart pounding, as if it might leap out of her throat.


    Strangely, even as Lucas reached thetter Chapters, his expression didn''t change. It was as though he were reading a perfectly ordinary novel.


    Could it be that he was skimming through it and not paying attention to the details?


    This thought gave Jean some relief, though she couldn''t help but feel a bit disappointed. Heart of the Fountain was a novel she held in high regard, and seeing someone rush through it so quickly was like watching a food connoisseur wolf down a gourmet meal without savoring it.


    "I''ve finished it," Lucas closed the book quietly, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "It''s such a beautiful story."


    Due to his extensive experience with the simtor''s text-based mode, Lucas had developed an impressive reading speed.


    "You... you think it''s a good story too?" Jean asked, her voice filled with excitement.


    Reading romance novels wasn''t just a hobby for Jean¡ªit was a personal secret. Few people knew about it.


    Although she had read many such novels, Jean had never found someone to discuss them with. Hearing Lucas praise one of her favorite books, she couldn''t help but feel she had found a kindred spirit.


    "Absolutely," Lucas nodded. "Especially the line, ''The fountain spirit will only spring forth for one person in their lifetime. Does a human girl only ever fall in love with one man?'' That was beautifully written."


    He understands! He really understands!


    Jean blurted out, "I... I love that line too!"


    "Wait," Lucas asked, slightly puzzled, "weren''t these books someone else''s?"


    "Well... I may have read a little bit," Jean replied, her face flushed with embarrassment. "But some parts of the content are a bit... improper, so..."


    As she spoke, Jean''s cheeks turned even redder.


    The idea of the dignified Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius secretly reading explicit novels in her office was a scandalous thought!


    "You''re referring to those parts?" Lucasughed, unconcerned. "I think they were written quite well. They captured the characters'' love for each other beautifully. Especially the part where the fountain spirit''s waters nourished the entire town¡ªit elevated the whole story. That''s not dirty at all, it''s pure."


    His words hit Jean like an arrow straight to the heart, dissolving the doubts that had troubled her.


    Yes, passionate love between two people wasn''t something dirty¡ªit was pure and natural.


    The problem wasn''t the story¡ªit had always been her own perception.


    She had been seeing everything through an impure lens, making even the purest of things seem improper!


    "Um... could we..." Jean''s voice wavered with emotion. "Could we talk more about this book?"


    "Of course," Lucas smiled. "Sharing a good story is always a pleasure."


    ---


    Half an hourter.


    "Oh no, I''ve spent too much time chasing down Sister Rosaria... I hope I haven''t kept my sister waiting for too long," Barbara hurried through the corridors of the Knights of Favonius, looking slightly flustered.


    As she approached the Acting Grand Master''s office, Barbara suddenly heard the sound of familiarughtering from inside.


    It was her sister Jean''sughter.


    Barbara rarely heard Jeanugh so openly, and her curiosity was piqued. Rather than barging in, she pressed herself against the doorframe to listen.


    This isn''t eavesdropping, she thought to herself. I''m just concerned about my sister. Surely Lord Barbatos would forgive me.


    Soon enough, Barbara heard Jean talking to a man.


    Jean: "What happened between us that night was just an act of drunken foolishness. Please don''t pester me about it anymore."


    Male voice: "Don''t lie to yourself. You weren''t drunk at all that night¡ªeverything was done willingly."


    Jean: "But... our love is wrong..."


    Male voice: "Don''t care about what others think. Even if I''m seven years younger than you, love doesn''t care about age."


    ---


    Author''s Note: Thoughts on reverse rape of Lucas by Barbara? ??

 Chapter 85: Villain Simulator, Ch 85

    <h4>Chapter 85: Viin Simtor, Ch 85</h4>


    Barbara, who had been eavesdropping outside the door, was so shocked that her mouth dropped open wide enough to fit an egg.


    Her sister, Jean, was only neen, and this man was supposed to be seven years younger, meaning he was twelve. And they had done something inappropriate after drinking?


    "This is uneptable!"


    With that thought, Barbara couldn''t stay calm any longer. She burst through the door, eximing in a panic, "This is a crime!"


    Of course, in her mind, it was Jean who hadmitted the crime.


    Barbara had expected to see Jean with a twelve-year-old boy, but instead, she found Jean and a strange man, each holding a book, seemingly reading from them aloud.


    Jean quickly realized what Barbara was thinking and, embarrassed, hurriedly exined, "Barbara, you''ve misunderstood! We were just having a book club!"


    "A book club? Why would a book club read such strange material?"


    Although Barbara was usually gentle and well-mannered, she had a strong protective instinct when it came to her sister. She rushed forward in just a few steps, cing herself between Jean and Lucas, staring him down and dering, "Don''t think you can fool my sister with your sweet talk¡ªwait, your face..."


    How is this possible?


    That face... how could it look so much like the man from her dream, the one who had forced himself upon her?


    If it had been anyone else, Barbara might have doubted it, but she would never forget that face, even if it were reduced to ashes!


    "My face?" Lucas instinctively touched his cheek. "Is something wrong?"


    "N-No... nothing..." Barbara struggled to suppress her emotions, muttering, "Who... who exactly are you?"


    "He''s Lucas, sent by the Yuheng to escort the equipment," Jean quickly exined. "He really isn''t a bad person."


    Not a bad person?


    But I clearly remember the "bad" things he did to me!


    Barbara firmly believed that dreams were not mere figments of imagination but messages from Lord Barbatos to his faithful followers.


    If the Anemo Archon had shown her this man''s evil deeds in a dream, it was surely a warning to be cautious of him.


    Yes, I must protect my sister''s safety. I can''t let my guard down now.


    "I''m sorry," Barbara said, pretending to be embarrassed and bowing slightly. "It seems I misunderstood."


    "Let me introduce her properly," Jean said, feeling relieved. "This is the person I arranged to assist you¡ªBarbara, the deaconess of the Church of Favonius."


    Although Lucas had already "met" Barbara in the simtor, he had to act as though this were their first encounter. "Nice to meet you. If it''s too much trouble, there''s no need for you to apany me."


    "No! It''s no trouble at all," Barbara shook her head immediately. "You''re an important guest of Mondstadt."


    Barbara had already made up her mind¡ªthis was her chance to reveal Lucas''s true nature!


    "In that case, I''ll ept your kind offer," Lucas nodded. "When should we set off?"


    It was already evening, and the Wine Festival was about to reach its most lively point.


    "You can leave now," Jean said before coughing lightly. "But first, Lucas, could you wait outside for a moment? I have something to discuss with Barbara."


    Lucas nodded and left the room.


    "Barbara..." Jean''s face flushed slightly. "Don''t you think Lucas is... a rather special person?"


    "You''ve already noticed?" Barbara immediately nodded. "Yes, I think so too!"


    He''s probably especially bad.


    "Since you''ve noticed, I''ll juste out and say it," Jean sighed in relief. "The reason I asked you to apany him is because I trust you to keep an eye on him."


    It was hard for Jean to openly admit her feelings for a man, but since Barbara had already picked up on it, that made things easier.


    "I''ll watch him closely," Barbara nodded.


    "If he does anything strange," Jean added, feeling a little embarrassed, "please keep me informed."


    As expected of my sister¡ªshe''s thought of everything.


    "Most importantly..." Jean bit her lip, her face turning red. "If possible, try to keep other women from getting too close to him."


    "Don''t worry," Barbara assured her. "I''ll make sure to keep a close eye on him!"


    The tragedy from the dream must nevere to pass.


    Jean, of course, had no idea what Barbara was really thinking and, feeling reassured, nodded. "With that settled, I can focus on my work."


    Barbara didn''t seem to realize that if Jean truly thought Lucas was a dangerous person, she wouldn''t have asked her little sister to take on such a risky task.


    ---


    Although it was Lucas''s first day in Mondstadt, in many ways, no one knew the city better than he did.


    While the Wine Festival didn''t have the same renown as Windblume or Ludi Harpastum, it was still an important celebration in Mondstadt, marking the harvest of fruits and the brewing of fine wines.


    That night, every tavern in the city allowed people to drink freely, with the cost covered by Mondstadt''s wine industry¡ªor more specifically, Dawn Winery, the leader in the business.


    Just as Jean had said, the streets were filled with young couples showing affection, some of them even kissing and embracing under the influence of alcohol.


    Mondstadt''s culture valued freedom, so such things weren''t unusual.


    Among the crowd, however, Lucas and Barbara were probably the only man and woman not paired as a couple.


    "Hey there, what a cute young man from Liyue~"


    Before Lucas could react, azy and sultry voice suddenly came from behind them, and a figure appeared in front of the two.


    It was a woman in her twenties with brown hair, dressed in a mage-like outfit that exuded an air of intelligence and maturity.


    Her face was slightly flushed, and she held a ss of red wine in her hand. It was clear she had already had a few drinks. "Care to join me for a drink, darling?"


    "L-Lisa?" Barbara gasped. "Aren''t you supposed to be on duty at the library tonight?"


    "Ah, Barbara, you''re here too?" Lisa smiled and stuck out her tongue yfully. "Don''t worry. Do you really think anyone would go to the library to borrow books on a night like this?"


    So, this woman is Lisa?


    Though she didn''t have much presence in the main storyline yet, she was one of the starting characters in the game, known for her big-sisterly charm and her role as the knowledgeable librarian.


    "In any case, you can''t just invite him for drinks," Barbara protested, as if someone were trying to feed her pet something harmful. "Lisa, you could easily find plenty of men to drink with."


    "But they''re all so boring, and their intentions are far too obvious. I don''t like that one bit," Lisa said with a mischievous smile. "So, is this your little boyfriend?"


    "N-No, he''s not!" Barbara''s face flushed. "I-I''m just apanying him on behalf of the Acting Grand Master."


    "Well, how about I take over for you?" Lisa, clearly tipsy, leaned into Lucas, casually wrapping her arm around his. She didn''t seem to mind that a certain part of her body was pressing tightly against his elbow.


    "My ce is quite spacious," Lisa said, tracing circles on Lucas''s chest with her finger. "If you''d like, I could show you some fun games we could y together."


    "I..." Lucas shook his head and said, "Thank you for your kind offer, but I''ve already agreed to let Miss Barbara apany me. I can''t just leave her here, can I?"


    Hearing this, Barbara felt unexpectedly touched.


    Did he really turn down such a beautiful woman like Lisa for her sake?


    No, no, Barbara, snap out of it! This must just be one of his tricks to win your favor.


    Did you forget how he deceived you in the dream?


    "I didn''t expect to be turned down the first time I invited a guy over," Lisa said with a hint of regret, but then quickly smiled. "No matter, here''s my address. If you change your mind, feel free to visit."


    Lisa pulled a purple card from her chest, smiled mischievously, and slipped it into Lucas''s hand before waving goodbye and walking off.


    Lucas looked down at the card. Sure enough, it had an address on it, and the card itself was finely crafted, with a faint scent lingering on it.


    "What''s the matter?" Barbara pouted. "Regretting your decision now? You still have time to change your mind."


    "I''ve already said, with Miss Barbara by my side, that''s more than enough," Lucas replied, casually slipping the card into his pocket. "So, where to next?"


    "If you want to drink, the best ce is the Angel''s Share," Barbara mused. "But it''s the most popr tavern in Mondstadt. Every Wine Festival, it''s packed to the brim. The lines are always super long."


    "Well, it''s not far from here, right? Why don''t we go check it out anyway?" Lucas suggested.


    "That''s not a bad idea," Barbara paused, then asked, a bit puzzled, "But... this is your first time in Mondstadt. How do you know the Angel''s Share is nearby?"


    "Because I have a map," Lucas replied offhandedly.


    Though the map he referred to was in his head.


    The Angel''s Share, Mondstadt''s most popr tavern, was also part of Master Diluc''s estate. If you were lucky, you might even catch Diluc himself tending bar.


    As Barbara had predicted, the tavern was already packed, and the line of patrons waiting to get in stretched as far as the eye could see¡ªlonger than even the queue for a throat swabbing.


    Choosing toe here for a drink, despite other free-flowing wine avable elsewhere, spoke volumes about the quality of this ce.


    "Just as I thought," Barbara said, her face showing a hint of disappointment. "Looks like I won''t be getting that extra-spicy lemon water today."


    What kind of strange drink is that?


    Lucas seemed to have an idea. He walked over to the entrance and asked, "Excuse me, are there no seats avable at all?"


    The doorman looked a bit impatient. "There are seats in the VIP section upstairs, but that''s not for people like you. Get in line like everyone else. Maybe you''ll get a drink before dawn."


    "The VIP section..." Lucas took out the ck card Diluc had given him. "What about with this?"


    "That''s..." The doorman''s eyes widened, and his attitude did aplete 180. He bowed deeply. "I see you''re a friend of Master Diluc. Please,e right in!"


    Lucas now had a clearer understanding of why, in the simtor, Mondstadt''smon folk resented special privileges, yet everyone seemed to love them at the same time.


    He led Barbara inside the tavern and was quickly escorted to the VIP section on the second floor.


    "I didn''t expect you to know Master Diluc personally," Barbara remarked, sounding a bit surprised. "This ck card isn''t something just anyone can get."


    "We''ve crossed paths," Lucas nodded before turning to the server. "Could I get one extra-spicy lemon water and... a Dragon''s me?"


    Dragon''s me was Lucas''s favorite cocktail from the simtor. Its deep purple and ck hues resembled the mes of the demon dragon Ursa¡ªspicy and intense.


    Although Ursa had once nearly destroyed Mondstadt, that didn''t stop its bartenders from using her name for their drinks.


    Maybe... he had ordered it because the mischievous ck dragon girl had crossed his mind.


    But to Lucas''s surprise, the server''s expression became somewhat awkward. "I''m sorry, but we don''t serve Dragon''s me here."


    Before Lucas could say anything, a lightheartedugh came from a corner of the room. "You''ve got some guts, ordering that drink here."


    Lucas turned to see a blue-haired man with dark skin sitting casually in the corner. He continued, "Dragon Ursa was directly responsible for the death of Diluc''s father. Do you really think his tavern would serve a drink with that name?"


    Lucas''s expression turned slightly embarrassed. "My apologies. That was thoughtless of me."


    "Captain Kaeya?" Barbara finally recognized the man and asked, "Weren''t you supposed to be on patrol tonight? Why are you here drinking?"


    First Lisa, now Kaeya... they''re all cking off!


    No wonder Jean is always so busy!


    "Oh, Barbara," Kaeya smiled. "Don''t worry, even bad guys can''t resist the allure of free drinks."


    "So, you''re Captain Kaeya," Lucas said, introducing himself. "I''m Lucas. I''ve met Master Diluc once before."


    "That guy wouldn''t hand out a ck card to someone he''s only met once," Kaeya raised his ss in Lucas''s direction. "Also, I rmend trying the ''Afternoon Death.'' It won''t disappoint."


    With that, Kaeya stood up, smiling as he added, "I''d better get back to work. I won''t interrupt your date any longer."


    "I already said!" Barbara blushed. "We''re not a couple."


    "That''s too bad," Kaeya chuckled, waving as he headed downstairs. "Take a look around."


    Barbara blinked, then nced around the dimly lit VIP area. She noticed that many of the couples had begun kissing, and in some more secluded spots, there were even... less appropriate soundsing from the shadows.


    "Barbara," Lucas said, his eyes narrowing yfully, "Do you think this ce might be a bit... too intense for you?"


    In the past, Barbara might have already hidden her blushing face under the table out of sheer embarrassment.


    But after experiencing the "dream" where she became an idol and was taken advantage of, Barbara had "grown" in more ways than one without realizing it.


    At the very least, she wasn''t as na?ve as she once had been.


    ---


    Author''s Note: me WN for not uploading the scheduled Chapter, I still got inte issues.. Anyways, we getting revenge on Venti soon. ??(Maybe some ckmail material? who knows)


    And keep voting guys.. Mommy Lisa will reward you with extra chaps on weekend :D

 Chapter 86: Villain Simulator, Ch 86

    <h4>Chapter 86: Viin Simtor, Ch 86</h4>


    "No... This is nothing!" Barbara quickly shook her head, saying, "Don''t underestimate me. I can handle... this level of intimacy."


    "Intimacy?" Lucas looked puzzled. "I was talking about your drink."


    Barbara froze, her face turning red with embarrassment. Unbeknownst to them, their drinks had already been quietly ced on the table. The VIP section''s service was indeed top-notch.


    Barbara''s "extra-spicy lemon water" was a bright, fiery red. It looked less like a drink and more like some bizarre, spicy soup. Even from a distance, Lucas could feel the heat stinging his eyes, as if they were starting to tear up.


    Drinking this definitely seemed like an intense challenge.


    "So... this is what you meant?" Barbara, flustered, wished she could dig a hole and disappear into it. She quickly added, "Watch me down it in one go!"


    When it came to handling spice, Barbara could undoubtedly rank among the top three in Mondstadt.


    Who would have guessed that such a delicate-looking girl had such a fiery pte?


    After all, spiciness isn''t just a taste sensation¡ªit''s a form of pain. To handle something this spicy, one not only needs a strong mouth but also a sturdy stomach.


    Admittedly, Barbara''s resilience in that area was quite impressive¡ªsomething Lucas knew well from his time in the simtor.


    Just as Barbara was about to take a sip, the server interjected, "One moment, I should warn you¡ªthis drink..."


    But before he could finish, Barbara had already downed the entire ss of bright red liquid, her face contorting with a mix of pain and determination.


    Momentster, a blush spread across her pale cheeks.


    "Something''s... off about this drink," Barbara mumbled, feeling the room begin to spin.


    The server, seeing she had chugged it all in one go, sighed helplessly. "That ''extra-spicy lemon water'' was infused with a strong firewater from Snezhnaya to enhance the vor."


    With a soft "thud," Barbara slumped over the table, passed out from the alcohol.


    "Well, well, Barbara really can''t handle her drink," came a cheerful voice from behind them. "One ss and she''s already out cold."


    A youthful bard in green attire had somehow appeared next to them, smiling as he addressed Lucas. "Hey there, you must be from Liyue, right?"


    "Hey, Venti, this is the VIP section!" The server from earlier frowned. "You promised you''d y for free all night in exchange for a seat here!"


    It was Venti!


    Lucas, of course, knew the bard''s true identity. Not only that, but they had crossed paths multiple times in the simtor.


    He hadn''t expected to run into him again in real life.


    "Look around," Venti replied nonchntly. "Who''s actually paying attention to the music right now? Besides, there''s an empty seat here. If this gentleman invites me to sit, doesn''t that make me a guest too?"


    "Why would he invite you?" The server rolled his eyes. "If you wore a dress, maybe someone would let you crash the table."


    It was true that, despite being a boy, Venti''s delicate and pretty features could easily fool someone if he dressed as a girl.


    In fact, some people might not even care that he''s a boy¡ªafter all, this was Mondstadt, the city of freedom.


    Of course, Lucas wasn''t interested in that.


    But an idea suddenly popped into his mind¡ªa way to tease Venti a little.


    "No problem," Lucas smiled and said, "He''s a friend of mine. Let him join us."


    Venti raised his head proudly. "See? Now, how about you bring us your finest wine?"


    The server, still looking a bit surprised, sighed and nodded reluctantly. "Fine, fine. I''ll get it."


    Lucas carefullyid Barbara down on the sofa beside the table, then picked up his own drink and smiled. "Since we''ve run into each other, I''m Lucas. Let''s drink to our meeting."


    With that, he downed the entire ss of "Afternoon Death."


    Though the drink wasn''t harsh going down, its aftereffect was intense. Even a seasoned drinker like Kaeya wouldn''t dare to drink it all at once.


    But Lucas seemed unfazed.


    Thanks to his recently acquired [Never Drunk] talent from the simtor, Lucas could drink as much as he liked without worry.


    "Good drinking!" Venti chuckled and quickly polished off his own ss. "In that case, I won''t hold back."


    "Seems like you can hold your liquor," Lucas smirked. "And since the drinks are free tonight, how about we have a littlepetition?"


    "Apetition?" Venti asked, intrigued.


    "Of course, a drinking contest," Lucas said, thinking back to his earlier run-in with the doorman Lawrence. "Whoever gets drunk first loses."


    "That''s not very fair," Venti said, pretending to be serious. "Barbara''s already passed out. If you fall too, I won''t be able to carry both of you home."


    "Don''t worry. Worst case, we can sleep here," Lucas taunted. "Unless... you''re afraid of losing?"


    "I''ll have you know," Venti raised one finger, "I can drink this much."


    "One bottle?"


    "No, I can drink continuously."


    "Well, then," Lucas grabbed a bottle of firewater, smiling, "Let''s not waste time with sses. Let''s drink straight from the bottle."


    "Now that''s the spirit!" Venti grinned, clearly enjoying Lucas''s style of drinking. "Don''t worry, I won''t let you lose too badly."


    Admittedly, Venti could hold his alcohol¡ªafter all, even with his powers weakened, he was still a god. His physique couldn''t bepared to that of a human.


    To date, the only one who had ever outdrunk Venti was the Geo Archon himself.


    It looked like tonight, they would both have a worthy opponent to drink against!


    Even though Barbatos frequently made cameo appearances in Lucas''s simtor adventures, he was never a central character. As a result, the real-life Venti didn''t retain much memory from the simtor.


    Venti''s interest in Lucas tonight wasn''t because of any past encounter but rather for a simpler reason: he was just looking for a chance to drink for free in the VIP section.


    In Mondstadt, a city rich in drinking culture, "drinking contests" weren''t unusual. They were both a form of entertainment and a way for patrons to prove their drinking prowess.


    Venti was no stranger to drinking challenges. Most people assumed that with his small, slender frame, he would get drunk after just a few sips.


    Little did they know, Venti''s body seemed like a bottomless pit. While he could easily enter a "tipsy" state after just a little alcohol, it was nearly impossible to get him fully drunk.


    But tonight, Venti, who was usually hard to intoxicate, met his match in Lucas¡ªsomeone who simply couldn''t get drunk.


    This drinking contest was unlike any other.


    While most people used sses, Lucas and Venti drank straight from the bottle. Instead of pairing their drinks with appetizers, they were essentially using alcohol as the appetizer for more alcohol.


    Charles, the bartender at Angel''s Share, watched the scene with a heart full of sorrow. So many bottles of expensive, fine wine were being downed without any appreciation. He wasn''t concerned about the cost¡ªafter all, for Master Diluc, the owner, the cost was negligible. What pained him was seeing these precious wines being "wasted."


    Before anyone realized it, Lucas and Venti had been drinking well into the night.


    "Drink... drink... keep drinking..." Venti slurred, his eyes half-closed, clearly tipsy but still conscious. "Lucas, why are there... three of you now?"


    Despite his red face and wobbly stance, Venti''s drunken state was rather adorable.


    "You''re drunk," Lucas chuckled. "It''s time to admit defeat."


    "Drunk? Me? N-no way!" Venti shook his head in denial. "I can still... drink... more..." But before he could finish his sentence, Venti copsed onto the table, much like Barbara had earlier.


    From a distance, Charles finally breathed a sigh of relief. Noticing Lucas looking his way, he quickly approached and asked, "Sir, would you like me to arrange a room for you to rest?"


    "Yes, please," Lucas replied with a smile. "Do you have any rooms avable?"


    "Of course," Charles nodded. "For our VIP guests, we offerplimentary rooms. Please follow me."


    Charles led them to two rooms. Lucas gentlyid Barbara down in one and then helped Venti into the other.


    "Truly a gentleman," Charles thought, admiring Lucas''s respectful actions.


    However, soon after, strange sounds began to emerge from the room where Lucas and Venti were.


    "Alright, first, take off the clothes."


    "Hmm..."


    "Don''t move. Stay in that pose."


    "Ugh..."


    Hearing these odd snippets of conversation, Charles''s face darkened with confusion.


    "What are young people even doing these days?" he muttered to himself.


    ---


    Inside the room, Lucas wasn''t doing anything inappropriate. In fact, he was simply having some fun with Venti.


    Holding a kamera (a magical camera), Lucas snapped several pictures of Venti, who was now dressed in a very cute maid outfit. Half-asleep and still somewhat drunk, Venti could only passively go along with Lucas''smands, posing in various embarrassing positions.


    With a snap of Lucas''s fingers, the maid outfit on Venti magically transformed into a nurse''s outfit.


    That''s right. Venti was currently wearing the [Nano Combat Suit (Youth Version)], an item Lucas had acquired as a reward. This special suit could change its form based on Lucas''s whims¡ªeven when worn by someone else.


    After a while, Lucas had umted a collection of interesting photos, featuring the semi-conscious Venti dressed in various costumes, striking ridiculous poses.


    Lucas wasn''t doing this because he had some strange hobby or kink. It was more of a yful revenge for the mischief Venti had caused him in the simtor.


    These photos could serve as leverage, in case Lucas ever needed Venti''s help in the future.


    And if that didn''t work, well... selling these as a photo album might fetch a good price.


    After all, Venti had lost their drinking bet, so these photos weren''t exactly a vition of his privacy¡ªthey were merely part of the wager.


    Before leaving, Lucas thoughtfully arranged a few of the more "provocative" photos in a pattern on the bed next to the sleeping Venti, spelling out the words "Bet Forfeit."


    Satisfied with his handiwork, Lucas left the room, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction. Finally, after all the times Venti had pranked him in the simtor, Lucas had managed to get back at him.


    "That was so satisfying!" Lucas muttered under his breath, unconsciously clenching his fists in triumph.


    Unfortunately, Charles happened to overhear this remark. His expression became even more perplexed.


    "Sir," Charles said cautiously, clearly trying to keep his thoughts to himself, "your bard friend seems to be sleeping quite soundly. We''ll make sure not to disturb him."


    "Thank you," Lucas replied with a polite smile. "I appreciate your discretion."


    "Rest assured, we are very discreet when ites to our VIP guests," Charles nodded. "Your preferences will remain confidential."


    Lucas didn''t dwell on the bartender''s choice of words and instead made his way into Barbara''s room.


    The young girl was fast asleep,pletely unaware of the chaos that had unfolded outside. Taking advantage of the quiet moment, Lucas decided it was the perfect time to review the reward he had recently earned from the simtor.


    [S-ss Reward: Gnosis - Anemo]


    [Effect: Increases control over the wind element by three tiers (can exceed S-ss).]


    So, this was the true power of Barbatos''s Gnosis?


    To put it simply, even among those blessed with Visions, not everyone had equal mastery over the elements.


    Some could summon zing infernos, while others could barely muster a flicker of me. Some could create raging tornadoes, while others couldn''t even rival a fan.


    For humans, elemental power always had its limits. After all, a Vision was both a tool for channeling elemental power and a device to limit it.


    In other words, the Vision acted like a "valve." No matter how strong the wielder was, if the valve only allowed for a certain level of power, they could only output that amount.


    It''s like you and a top student both scoring 100 on an exam¡ªyour ability maxes out at 100, while the top student is limited only because 100 is the highest possible score.


    To put it another way, if Lucas has A-grade wind elemental power, no matter how much he trains, he could at most reach the S-grade. However, with the Anemo Archon''s Gnosis, he could break through to the "SSS" level.


    The funny thing is... Lucas currently has no way to use wind elemental power, making this reward somewhat of a useless skill at the moment.


    Moreover, whether it''s through random rewards or loot box draws, the rewards arepletely unpredictable. Gaining wind elemental power would depend purely on luck.


    Of course, there''s another method¡ªusing Virtue Points to exchange for an Anemo Vision. But the cost is 10,000 points, which Lucas is far from achieving right now.


    Still, Lucas isn''t too concerned. As long as he takes his time, he''ll eventually obtain it.


    ---


    [Ice Element Control (A-Grade)]


    Type: Talent


    Effect: Allows the user to control ice elements.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Charles thought bro smashed venti...

 Chapter 87: Villain Simulator, Ch 87

    <h4>Chapter 87: Viin Simtor, Ch 87</h4>


    [Dragon Piercing Spear (A-Grade)]


    - Type: Skill


    - Effect: Throws a powerful spear imbued with elemental energy. Deals 100% extra damage to dragons and has a high chance to inflict irreparable piercing damage.


    ---


    [Ornate Gold Brooch]


    - Category: Set Item


    - Effect: (2/4) Grants a 7% bonus to Hydro element damage.


    ---


    There were no lootbox rewards this time, but considering the simtor''s rewards, Lucas had received quite a generous haul.


    ---


    "Ugh..." Barbara, who had been unconscious until now, finally stirred and slowly sat up.


    Her drunkenness seemed to have subsided a little, but she still appeared groggy, rubbing her eyes as she mumbled, "Where... am I?"


    "We''re in one of the rooms at Angel''s Share," Lucas exined gently. "It''s reallyte now. How about we stay here for the night?"


    "No..." Barbara''s cheeks flushed red as she pouted. "I want to go back to the church. I can''t sleep without hugging my sister''s doll..."


    Normally, Barbara wasn''t this clingy, but under the influence of the lingering effects of alcohol, she was acting a little more willful than usual.


    "Alright..." Lucas smiled wryly, unable to resist her plea. "I''ll take you back. Can you walk?"


    "Barbara doesn''t want to walk," she mumbled, stretching out her arms towards Lucas. "Daddy, carry me back."


    It seemed the alcohol had clouded her thoughts enough that she mistook Lucas for her father, Seamus Pegg¡ªnot the imprisoned version from the simtor, but the "Cardinal of Dawn" in the real world.


    Six months ago, Grand Master Varka had led most of the Knights of Favonius on an expedition, and Barbara''s father, Seamus, had apanied him as the church''s representative. After Seamus''s divorce from Frederica of the Gunnhildr family, Barbara and her sister Jean had been raised separately by their parents.


    Living with her father for so long, Barbara naturally missed him dearly, which exined why, in her half-asleep state, she had confused Lucas with him.


    "Alright, alright," Lucas didn''t have the heart to correct her. He knelt down in front of her, saying, "Come on, Barbara."


    "Daddy, I missed you so much..." Barbara wrapped her arms around Lucas''s neck as she clung to his back, murmuring softly, "Daddy''s back feels... broader now."


    "You can rest on Daddy''s back for a bit," Lucas whispered. "We''ll be home soon."


    "Mmm..." Comforted by the warmth of his back, Barbara quickly drifted off into sleep again.


    ---


    3 AM.


    The Wine Festival hade to an end, and most of Mondstadt''s citizens had returned home after their festivities. A few unlucky drunks, who had overindulged,y sprawled on the streets, too inebriated to make it back.


    If they were fortunate, a passing patrol knight might take them home. If not, they might spend the night outside, only to be woken by a curious stray dog the next morning.


    Thankfully, Mondstadt''s mild climate meant that a night outdoors would only result in a cold at worst. In Snezhnaya, however, such a night could easily mean waking up as a frozen corpse.


    On patrol that night was a blue-haired girl wielding arge sword: E, the Spindrift Knight of the Knights of Favonius.


    Although she typically led the reconnaissance squad and handled field missions outside the city, during festivals like this, E helped with the patrols inside the city as well.


    "Damn it, they stuck my squad with patrol duty," E grumbled under her breath. "I''ll remember this grudge!"


    Despite her words, E''s actions spoke otherwise. Known for her sharp tongue but soft heart, she had volunteered for the worst time slot so that her team could rest during the night.


    For E, the Wine Festival held little appeal. Even if she wanted to drink, the moment she sat down at a tavern, the other patrons would treat her like the gue, quickly vacating the area.


    But tonight, she had something else on her mind.


    To prepare for the night patrol, she had taken a quick nap at the Knights'' headquarters.


    Little did she expect that in just a few hours, she would have a long and vivid dream.


    In what should have been a pleasant dream, the Lawrence family¡ªher family, once shamed and despised¡ªhad been transformed into celebrated heroes who had saved Mondstadt multiple times.


    As she walked through the city streets in her dream, the usual res and whispered curses were reced by kind smiles and warm greetings.


    But what made the dream truly strange was that in it, she had married her cousin from the Lawrence family.


    And that cousin was none other than the Liyue man she had met today¡ªLucas!


    Not only had he married her, but he had also married Jean!


    In the dream, they even had children together!


    Though she had felt quite content and happy within the dream, upon waking, E couldn''t shake the sense that something was off.


    Never before had a man appeared in her dreams, let alone one who swept her off her feet into a life of marriage and children.


    As the saying goes, "What you think about during the day shows up in your dreams at night." Could it be that she had developed feelings for a man she had only just met?


    Impossible!


    E quickly shook her head, mocking herself. "Even if he were from Mondstadt, why would anyone be interested in a Lawrence?"


    After walking a few more steps, E suddenly spotted a figure lying not far ahead. The air was thick with the mingled stench of alcohol and blood.


    "Could they have gotten hurt after drinking too much?" E muttered as she approached cautiously. "Hey, are you okay? This isn''t the ce to sleep."


    But as she took a couple more steps, her expression changed instantly.


    The figure lying on the ground was indeed a drunkard, but they were no longer breathing. Their abdomen had been shed open, and their intestines spilled messily onto the ground.


    Even for someone as battle-hardened as E, ustomed to violence and bloodshed, the gruesome sight made her stomach churn.


    "A murder?" E clenched her fists. "I need to report this to the Knights immediately."


    Suddenly, E felt a surge of killing intent from behind her. Her instincts honed from countless battles kicked in, and she swung her greatsword backward with all her strength.


    The sharp ng of metal rang out as her sword shed against another¡ªarge sword.


    The wielder was a man in his thirties, dressed in luxurious attire. When E saw his face, she was startled. "Terrence?" (AN: Oc)


    Indeed, the man before her was none other than Terrence Lawrence, her cousin from the infamous Lawrence family.


    In E''s memory, Terrence had always been a quiet and reserved figure. Even during the family trials, when he had lost to her, he had epted his defeat without a word.


    But now, his appearance was like that of a bloodthirsty beast. His entire being radiated a murderous aura.


    Terrence''s eyes were bloodshot, glowing faintly with a crimson light. From the gaps between his clenched teeth, he muttered hoarsely, "Kill... kill... kill!"


    Without warning, a surge of immense strength hit E. She found herself being pushed down by the sheer force of Terrence''s sword.


    How is this possible?


    E''s mind raced in disbelief.


    She knew Terrence''s abilities well¡ªthough he trained diligently in swordsmanship, his talent was average. Even though he was older by over a decade, he had never been a match for her inbat.


    Yet now, his speed and strength had grown significantly. Such rapid improvement in such a short time should have been impossible.


    Her eyes fell on the bloodstains and bits of flesh clinging to Terrence''s sword. It seemed that the mutted body nearby was his doing.


    "Even if you''re a Lawrence..." E took two steps back, her de gathering frost as she called upon her Cryo powers. "I won''t hold back!"


    With that, E unleashed two icy shes toward Terrence. However, mes suddenly erupted from his greatsword.


    With a single downward swing, the mes vaporized her ice des, and his sword struck E hard, knocking her back.


    How can this be?


    The Lawrence family had very few members blessed with a Vision, and Terrence had never been one of them. How had he suddenly gained the ability to wield elemental powers?


    Taking advantage of E''s injury, Terrence leaped into the air. His sword, now zing with intense mes, lit up the dark sky as he prepared to strike her down.


    Damn it!


    For some reason, E could feel a powerful aura radiating from Terrence, freezing her in ce. The force of his previous blow,bined with the killing intent he now exuded, made her unable to move.


    As the fiery de descended toward her, E''s heart sank. She was certain the next strike would cleave her in two.


    But just at that critical moment, a spear suddenly shot out from the side, piercing into Terrence''s sword and sending him flying several meters away, crashing into a nearby stall that had yet to be cleared away.


    "Ah, the ssic hero-saving-the-damsel scenario¡ªnever gets old," a man joked as he appeared in front of E, a young girl clinging to his back.


    With one hand steadying the girl on his back and the other gripping his spear, the man smiled. "E, that wasn''t your best, was it?"


    It was Lucas.


    E had been caught off guard by her cousin, but a fight was still a fight¡ªno matter the circumstances. There was no room for weakness when life was on the line.


    "Lucas?" E said, surprised. "What are you doing here?"


    Before Lucas could answer, the groggy Barbara on his back nuzzled his neck,ining, "Daddy, it''s cold out here. Let''s go home."


    Daddy? Go home?


    E''s eyes widened in disbelief. "Lucas! How could you involve the Acting Grand Master''s sister in this? You... you pervert! Scum!"


    Perhaps due to the strange intimacy she had felt toward Lucas in her dream, seeing him so close with another woman made E feel a twinge of jealousy.


    "It''s not what you think!" Lucasughed awkwardly. "She''s just drunk!"


    "So you made a minor drink?" E red at him, her voice filled with indignation. "I''ll remember this grudge!"


    "Now''s not the time for this!" Lucas carefully passed Barbara to E and said, "Take her back to the Knights; I''ll handle things here."


    "What? No way!" E protested. "I''m the Knight of Favonius! If anyone''s staying to fight, it should be me. We''ll fight him together!"


    "I can''t leave Barbara here," Lucas replied softly, reaching out to brush a strand of hair from E''s face. "Trust me, I''ve got this. He''s no match for me."


    The gesture, surprisingly gentle, felt oddly familiar to E. Despite herself, she didn''t feel ufortable at all.


    "Tch! Fine..." E blushed slightly as she cradled Barbara in her arms. "But if anything happens to you, I''ll never forgive you!"


    "Ugh!" came a groan from Terrence, who was slowly getting back on his feet. Despite being thrown back by Lucas''s spear, he seemedrgely unscathed.


    His gaze quickly locked onto E again, and he charged toward her, swinging his greatsword fiercely.


    But before he could reach her, Lucas stepped in, raising his spear to block the attack. His eyes narrowed as he said coldly, "Your opponent... is me."


    "Move!" Terrence roared, enraged as he watched E retreating into the distance. With a wild swing of his sword, he aimed a devastating blow at Lucas, the heavy de sparking against the ground as it tore through the air.


    Even for someone as strong as E, handling such a heavy sword with one hand was no easy feat.


    But Lucas had grown much stronger than E by now. He wasn''t interested in dragging out the fight, and so, activating his [Mystic Eyes of Death Perception], he prepared to strike at Terrence''s weak point, ending the battle with a single, fatal blow.


    However, as soon as Lucas activated his Mystic Eyes of Death Perception, he was shocked to discover something unusual¡ªthere were no "lines of death" on Terrence''s body!


    This was highly strange. While it''s true that the less someone fears death, the fainter their lines of death be, fear of death is a natural part of being human. Even someone with unshakable willpower, like Diluc, still has lines of death visible on their body.


    But on Terrence, there were none at all.


    This could only mean two things:


    First, he was truly fearless of death.


    Second... he was already dead.


    There was no time for Lucas to ponder the reason. Terrence was already upon him, swinging his zing sword with deadly force. The impact from earlier had toppled several liquor stalls, causing spirits and wine to spill across the ground.


    Sparks from Terrence''s fiery de touched the alcohol-soaked ground, and in an instant, the spilled liquor ignited, mes rapidly spreading across the area.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Protect your wifey!

 Chapter 88: Villain Simulator, Ch 88

    <h4>Chapter 88: Viin Simtor, Ch 88</h4>


    The mes illuminated the once-dark marketce, depriving Lucas of his usual advantage. With his abilities like [Night Vision] and [Cloak and Dagger], he had initially nned to fight while concealed in the shadows. But now, under the bright firelight, it seemed that he''d have to fight head-on.


    It wasn''t that Lucascked courage¡ªfar from it. It was simply that his preference leaned towards securing victory with minimal effort and cost.


    As for his [Mystic Eyes of Death Perception], they were more of an added bonus. Even without them, Lucas could still fight, though the battle would undoubtedly be tougher. To exin simply, the Mystic Eyes were like a cheat that allowed him to target vital points with every strike. But using them required the wielder to possess considerablebat prowess.


    Without visible "death lines," Lucas had to be more free-form in his fighting style. Despite wielding a delicate spear like the Flowing Moon Needle, his movements were fluid and precise, easily holding off the brute force of Terrence''s massive sword.


    Terrence''s sudden boost in power was little more than an increase in his raw stats. When it came to technique and finesse, he was far from Lucas''s level.


    The only problem was that the Flowing Moon Needle was a specialized weapon meant for exploiting the "death lines." It only delivered lethal damage if it struck a vital point. If it hit anywhere else, the damage was negligible.


    In game terms, the Flowing Moon Needle''s stats would look something like: [Damage reduced by 90%], but [Critical Damage increased by 10,000%].


    To make matters worse, Terrence''s muscles had bulged to the point of resembling stone. Even though Lucas had struck him several times, the needle-like spear barely left a mark on Terrence''s hardened body.


    Looks like I''ll have to change my approach!


    Lucas suddenly leaped several feet backward, switching his grip on the Flowing Moon Needle and beginning to channel his Cryo elemental power.


    This technique was the same one he had used in the simtor to deal with the demon dragon Ursa and Stormterror: [Dragon Piercing Spear].


    Though using this high-caliber move on a human opponent felt like overkill, it seemed necessary to prate Terrence''s overwhelming defense.


    Wrapped in Cryo energy, the slender spear in Lucas''s hand grew significantlyrger.


    "Dragon Piercing Spear!"


    With a sharp battle cry, Lucas hurled the spear at Terrence. To his surprise, however, Terrence didn''t flinch. He charged straight at the spear, taking the hit head-on.


    The spinning spear drilled into Terrence''s chest, boring a hole straight through his body with a sickening "thunk." A gaping, transparent cavity appeared where his heart should have been, with ck-purple organs spilling out.


    Yet even after such a gruesome injury, Terrence remained standing, continuing his relentless assault on Lucas.


    How is he not dead?


    Could he have be a zombie?


    Lucas, having once been a "doctor" in the simtor, was well-versed in this kind of technology. He had frequently dabbled in the creation of undead soldiers using abination of drugs and mechanical enhancements, enabling corpses to keep moving and unleash hidden strength.


    However, even the "undying soldiers" created by the doctor were still bound by the limits of science. If their bodies suffered enough damage, they would cease functioning.


    But Terrence, despite having a hole in his chest, was still moving as if nothing had happened. This was far beyond anything Lucas had ever encountered.


    Could it be that someone in this world had already surpassed the technology he developed in the simtor?


    [Stop zoning out¡ªhe''sing at you again!]


    The system''s voice snapped Lucas back to attention.


    As Terrence¡ªnow an unstoppable juggernaut¡ªcharged forward with his ming greatsword, Lucas found himself temporarily unarmed. Dodging each of Terrence''s strikes, he struggled toe up with a n.


    Extracting a weapon from the [Serea Pot] required some preparation time, but with Terrence''s relentless attacks, Lucas didn''t have a moment to spare.


    No! He still have one weapon left!


    Rolling across the ground, Lucas grabbed a nearby bottle that hadn''t yet shattered.


    [Activate: A Knight Never Fights Barehanded!]


    This talent allowed Lucas to turn any object into a weapon with special effects.


    [Activation sessful!]


    [Acquired: Molotov Cocktail]


    [Effect: Creates an area of continuous fire damage upon impact.]


    "Take this!"


    Lucas hurled the Molotov Cocktail at Terrence. The bottle smashed with a loud "crack," and within seconds, mes engulfed Terrence''s body.


    Though Terrence could control fire elements, he was still human, not a slime immune to fire damage. The mes quickly spread, consuming his body.


    Yet even while aze, Terrence didn''t scream or show any signs of pain. He just kept chasing after Lucas, his entire body burning.


    "What is this¡ªme Fist?" Lucas muttered in frustration. "This weapon is way too weak."


    Soon, the mes had burned away Terrence''s clothes, and his skin began to char and crack under the heat.


    However, as Lucas observed the charred remains, he noticed something unusual.


    On Terrence''s wrist, a ck bracelet gleamed faintly, its smooth surface reflecting a dim light despite the scorching mes.


    Even with the intense heat, it remainedpletely unaffected.


    Could the secret lie in that bracelet?


    Before Lucas could delve any deeper into his thoughts, Terrence swung his sword once again. Although Lucas managed to dodge the strike, the intense heatwave knocked him backward, sending him crashing into a nearby stall.


    The stall was a fireworks stand, and as Lucas collided with it, various fireworks scattered across the ground.


    One of them, a fireworkbeled with "Naganohara Fireworks,"nded right on Lucas''s chest.


    Fireworks may bemon in many nations, but none canpare to the craftsmanship of Inazuma. The country, known for its frequent fireworks festivals, produces the most exquisite and powerful fireworks. Among them, the Naganohara Fireworks Shop stands at the top, renowned not only within Inazuma but also abroad, as their fireworks are often exported for celebrations in other nations.


    Even though Inazuma''s recent Sakoku Decree had slowed the export of goods, Naganohara Fireworks still held a ce of distinction due to their superior quality.


    This particr firework stick from Naganohara was noticeably heavier than typical ones, indicating a muchrger amount of gunpowder. Bigger, higher, and more spectacr¡ªthese were the trademarks of Naganohara''s creations.


    Lucas activated his talent, [A Knight Never Fights Barehanded].


    [Activation sessful!]


    [Acquired: Gunce]


    [Effect: A spear with added cannon functionality, capable ofunching "Wyvern Fire" attacks using monster breath mechanics.]


    Well, well, it''s like Monster Hunter, Lucas thought, amused. The Gunce, an iconic weapon from the Monster Hunter series, was a blend of stabbing and shelling¡ªtruly a man''s weapon.


    Under the effect of [A Knight Never Fights Barehanded], the firework stick hardened, transforming into a makeshift gunce with a cone-shaped spear tip.


    "Perfect," Lucas smirked.


    [Even with that, you might not be able to break through his defenses,] the system warned.


    "No problem," Lucas grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "If I can''t break him from the outside... I''ll just break him from the inside!"


    He taunted Terrence with a mocking gesture, beckoning him. "Come on, hit me if you can!"


    Terrence, who had already lost all reason, responded to the provocation without hesitation. Dragging his massive sword, he charged at Lucas.


    Just as Terrence swung his greatsword down, Lucas used the gunce as a pole to vault over Terrence,nding deftly behind him.


    "Huh?" Terrence barely had time to react before Lucas drove the fireworknce into a soft spot in Terrence''s body.


    No matter how tough a man might be, every man has a vulnerable spot.


    [Skill Activated: Ruthless Striker!]


    The cone-shapednce pierced deep, and Terrence''s eyes widened in shock. Before he could even scream, Lucas had already pulled the trigger on the gunce.


    A series of loud "booms" echoed through the marketce as explosive rounds discharged from thence. Terrence''s stomach visibly swelled, and sparks shot out from the hole in his chest.


    His face contorted in agony, and with one final explosion, Terrence''s body detonated from the inside out, his flesh and blood scattering like rain.


    "Phew..." Lucas exhaled in relief. "Finally dealt with."


    [Well, that was... quite a way to finish,] the systemmented with a hint of sarcasm.


    [Enemy killed. 2,000 Virtue Points awarded.]


    [Executioner effect triggered. Reward: Strength increased by 10%.]


    This time, the system seemed particrly generous, rewarding Lucas handsomely for defeating a murderer. Though Terrence wasn''t a powerful enemy, he was certainly a troublesome one¡ªdefeating an opponent who couldn''t die was no easy task.


    Only someone as resourceful as Lucas woulde up with such an unconventional method to take down Terrence.


    With a crisp "clink," a bracelet fell from the sky,nding at Lucas''s feet and rolling to a stop beside him.


    It was the same bracelet Terrence had worn, though it now looked different. Lucas distinctly remembered the bracelet being ck when it was on Terrence''s wrist. Now, however, it had turned pure white, glowing faintly in the darkness.


    "What the heck is this thing?" Lucas muttered, picking up the bracelet and examining it closely. "Could this be connected to whatever turned Terrence into that monster?"


    [Why don''t you put it on and find out?] the system suggested.


    "Do I look like an idiot?" Lucas frowned. "What if this thing turns me into a monster too?"


    But before Lucas could act, the bracelet suddenly moved on its own. It twisted in his hand and slipped onto his wrist, the sp tightening instantly, locking it in ce.


    "Oh,e on!" Lucas cursed, trying to yank the bracelet off, but it had already shrunk, gripping his wrist too tightly to remove. "This thing is definitely bad news! I need to get it off, now!"


    [Simple solution: just chop off your hand,] the system quipped.


    "Stop joking at a time like this!" Lucas grumbled. He even tried prying it off with his fingers, but the bracelet was made of an unnaturally hard material,pletely immovable.


    "Hand over that bracelet," a voice suddenly demanded from the shadows.


    A tall figure emerged from the darkness, dressed in ck and wearing a mask. The figure''s body was slim yet curvaceous, indicating she was a woman.


    "Who are you?" Lucas asked, his guard up. "And what''s your connection to that monster?"


    "You''re from Liyue, aren''t you?" the masked woman said, her tone cold. "This matter doesn''t concern you. Hand over the bracelet, and I won''t have to resort to force."


    Unbeknownst to Lucas, this woman was none other than "La Signora," one of the Harbingers of the Fatui. She had tasked another Harbinger, the Doctor, with creating a disturbance in Mondstadt. However, the Doctor had used an invention known as the "Ring of Maniption," which wasn''t fully under his control.


    This bracelet, the "Ring of Maniption," could attach itself to a host, amplifying their negative emotions and transforming their body into a vessel for malevolent energy.


    The monsters created by the Ring of Maniption were powerful, chaotic forces of destruction.


    But this wasn''t the kind of chaos La Signora had wanted. Though she was arrogant and ruthless, she wasn''t interested in mindless ughter, especially if it risked drawing the full attention of the Knights of Favonius to the Fatui''s activities.


    Thus, La Signora hade in disguise to recover the Ring of Maniption and put an end to the Doctor''s reckless experiment.


    ---


    Author''s Note: The bracelet attaching itself to lucas reminded me of omnitrix and ben... You''ll quite like the bracelet in one of the uing Chapters..


    And only 4 extra Chapters for sunday.. You can increase it by voting more!

 Chapter 89: Skill Issue Updates

    <h4>Chapter 89: Skill Issue Updates</h4>


    Name: Lucas


    Age: 20


    Gender: Male


    <strong>Summon: Greymon -</strong><strong></strong> Summons a Greymon to assist inbat.


    <strong>Servent: Raiden Mai</strong> - A puppet made by Raiden Ei.


    <strong>Equipments:


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Serenitea Pot -</strong> Provides an independent space outside of Teyvat, allowing for storage or a ce to reside without being discovered.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Giant''s Gauntlets -</strong> The size and weight of your fists increase with the force of your punches.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>M1911 Handgun -</strong> Comes with a silencer, 7-round capacity.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Mask of Disguise - </strong>When worn, this mask allows you to take on the appearance of any individual you''ve seen (you can only transform into someone you''ve encountered).


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Nano Battle Suit (Youth Edition) -</strong> A nanosuit that can be equipped and repaired at the molecr level, enhancing the user''s physical abilities. Its appearance can change based on the user''s preferences.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Lion''s Roar (Sword) -</strong> Increases damage dealt by Pyro and Electro elements by 20%.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Royal Longbow</strong> - Every fourth attack is guaranteed to be a critical hit.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Flowing Moon Needle -</strong> The spear of the Spear Witch, used to precisely hit the death lines.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Dagger of the Unfilial -</strong> Maintains sharpness and doesn''t dull easily.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Gnosis - Anemo - </strong>Increases control over the wind element by three tiers (can exceed S-ss).


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Skills:</strong>


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Charging Fist</strong> - This skill allows Lucas to umte "Heroic Intent" when attacked. The more damage he takes, the more Heroic Intent is umted. When using Charging Fist, all the umted Heroic Intent is unleashed, dealing damage to enemies in the area, with the damage and area increasing based on the Heroic Intent umted.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Heavy Punch</strong> - Increases damage to the opposite sex by 20%.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Try Again</strong> - Inherent talent. Allows Lucas to avoid death once per simtion if chosen, with a one-month cooldown in real life.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Mischievous Shiba Inu</strong> - Increases abilities when performing actions a mischievous Shiba Inu enjoys.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Diamond Body -</strong> Permanently increases defense by 10%. Once per day, can generate a defensive shield that blocks 90% of one attack''s damage.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Liar''s Bane - </strong>10% chance for others to believe your lies unconditionally, 10% chance to see through others'' lies.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Favonius Swordsmanship: Wolf''s Fang - </strong>Increases critical hit rate by 20% when used. A sword technique developed based on Wolf Pup Rostam''s fighting style.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Regenerative Factor - </strong>Greatly enhances healing ability but still causes pain during recovery.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Night Vision -</strong> Can see in the dark.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>A Knight Never Fights Barehanded - </strong>You can treat any object in your hand as a weapon, imbuing it with special properties.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Medical Sage -</strong> You have an extraordinary medical gift, destined to change the course of history through medicine.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Lord of the Undead - </strong>All undead creatures will have a favorable impression of you, and you canmand undead creatures weaker than yourself.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Dendro Archon''s Gene - </strong>The gene of the Dendro God takes root in your body, granting you the ability to wield the purest Dendro Elemental power. As your strength grows, your elemental power will increase.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Puppet Master - </strong>You are naturally gifted with a fully realistic puppet and can transfer your soul into it, temporarily acting through the puppet.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Pocket Waypoint - </strong>You can set an anchor at a specified location and instantly teleport there. Activation requires one minute of preparation, and the cooldown time is 24 hours.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Gun Kata Beta - </strong>Abat technique thatbines close-quartersbat with firearms. Requires at least one firearm to use.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Duelist''s Spear -</strong> Increases attack by 50% when fighting a single enemy.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Mystic Eye of Death</strong> <strong>Perception</strong> - You gain a chance to see the "Lines of Death" on your target. If you strike the Line of Death, you can kill the target instantly. The more they fear death, the higher the probability of a Line appearing. Conversely, the more fearless they are, the lower the probability.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>First Cup of Red Wine -</strong> After taking the first time of a pure maiden, this skill absorbs the target''s elemental affinity and converts it into a permanent attribute enhancement.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Ride Anything -</strong> You can treat any creature weaker than yourself as a mount. You also have an innate talent for riding, able to master any mount, including all forms of transportation.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Cloak and Dagger -</strong> Reduces the chance of being detected during stealth by 50%. Launching a sneak attack on an unaware enemy deals double damage.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Never Drunk</strong> - Your alcohol tolerance is superb; no matter how much you drink, you will not get drunk.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>The Cracker</strong> - Increases damage to male targets by 10%, with a 100% increase in critical damage to vital areas.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Ruthless Striker -</strong> Increases damage by 20% when attacking a target from behind.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Interrogation Technique</strong> - After using this skill, you can force a target to answer one question. The weaker the target''s mental strength, the higher the sess rate. (Usable once per day)


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Cryo Element Control -</strong> Allows the user to control ice elements.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Dragon Piercing Spear - </strong>Throws a powerful spear imbued with elemental energy. Deals 100% extra damage to dragons and has a high chance to inflict irreparable piercing damage.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Titles:</strong>


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Blessing of the Anemo God(Stacked 2 times) - </strong>Agility increased by 40%.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>Executioner -</strong> After killing a target, you can receive a reward proportional to the target''s strength.


    </strong>


    <strong> <strong>yer of Archons(Godyer)</strong> -<strong></strong> Damage against all Archon-ss targets is increased by 100%.</strong><strong>                </strong>

 Chapter 90: Villain Simulator, Ch 89

    <h4>Chapter 90: Viin Simtor, Ch 89</h4>


    "I don''t really mind if you use force..." Lucas raised his wrist with a amused expression and said, "If you want to take it back, no problem¡ªjust go ahead and take it yourself."


    "At least you''re sensible," La Signora sneered. "That way, I won''t have to take your life."


    In truth, La Signora had already prepared for the worst, including silencing him if necessary. Lucas''s words, however, made her rx a bit.


    Perhaps, deep down, there was still a hint of "Rosalyn''s" kindness lingering within her. Although she appeared cold and arrogant on the surface, in some ways, she was actually the most "gentle" of the Fatui Harbingers.


    As she approached Lucas, she got closer until she could see his face clearly, and then she couldn''t help but flinch.


    N-no way...


    Why did this guy look so much like the Doctor from her dreams?


    No, it wasn''t just a resemnce¡ªit was as if they had been carved from the same mold.


    However, because La Signora concealed her identity, Lucas naturally didn''t know who she truly was. He could only tell that she was a tall and slender woman.


    Of course, letting her take the bracelet was just a temporary measure. The monster from earlier was definitely rted to this woman. Once she took the bracelet, he nned to subdue her and wait for the Knights of Favonius toe and arrest her.


    "Hey?" Seeing that the woman in ck seemed lost in thought, Lucas waved at her and said, "Aren''t you going to take off the bracelet for me?"


    La Signora snapped out of her daze and said tly, "I know, what''s the rush? If you push me again, I''ll chop your hand off, believe it or not!"


    Impossible...


    That was just a dream, even if they looked simr, it was surely just a coincidence.


    Though she convinced herself of this, La Signora couldn''t help but grasp Lucas''s hand.


    Even the warmth and roughness of his hand felt exactly the same as in her dream.


    "Uh..." Lucas was startled by her sudden action. "What are you doing?"


    Wait, could this be... a female thug?


    Is she one of those women who immediately go for a man''s hand?


    A guy really needs to protect himself when he''s out nowadays!


    "I-I''m just transferring the bracelet," La Signora replied awkwardly. "Don''t get any funny ideas."


    "I didn''t say anything..." Lucas wasn''t upset. "Take your time."


    After all, her slender, soft, and slightly cool hands felt surprisinglyfortable.


    And there was something familiar about them.


    The [Ring of Maniption] had a unique trait: it tended to attach itself to the strongest person around.


    That''s why La Signora used this method to transfer the ring to herself. Only the Doctor knew how to properly remove such a bizarre object.


    However, the strange thing was that the ring on Lucas''s wrist remained still, as if it had no interest in La Signora at all.


    "That''s odd; why isn''t it working?" La Signora muttered, puzzled.


    As the Eighth Harbinger of the Fatui, her strength was unquestionable. She was confident that there were no more than ten people in Mondstadt who could surpass her.


    Either the ring was malfunctioning, or... this man''s strength surpassed her own.


    Perhaps due to her growing anxiety, her palm was now slightly sweaty.


    Just then, a sh of light and the sound of footsteps could be seen and heard in the distance.


    It seemed that E had returned with the Knights of Favonius.


    La Signora recognized their identity from the heavy footsteps and the nking of metal armor.


    If the Knights discovered her, it would be impossible to exin herself.


    "I have no choice!"


    La Signora extended her other hand, forming a sharp ice de, intending to sever the bracelet.


    However, the ring was incredibly tough. With a sharp snap, the ice de shattered upon contact.


    Of course, even if she had aimed for Lucas''s arm instead of the bracelet, the effects of his [Diamond Body] would have neutralized the attack.


    "Hey! That''s going too far!" Even though Lucas knew he had protection, he was still startled. "Going for the hand without warning?"


    "Damn it!"


    Seeing that the Knights of Favonius were closing in, and unable to retrieve the ring, La Signora had no choice but to retreat temporarily.


    But Lucas gripped her hand tightly and smiled, "Trying to escape? Not that easy."


    "Let me go!"


    In their struggle, the ck cloth covering La Signora''s face fell, revealing her true appearance.


    Upon seeing her face, Lucas was stunned, and La Signora used the opportunity to slip away.


    "How dare you humiliate me like this..." La Signora red at Lucas with hatred. "I''ll remember this grudge!"


    With that, she leaped into the night and vanished.


    Wow, ice-type people really do hold grudges, huh?


    Although Lucas had the ability to stop her, he decided to let her go, perhaps because he remembered their past encounters in the simtor.


    However, this also confirmed that the matter was indeed rted to the Fatui.


    At that moment, E arrived with the Vanguard Squad, but she was a step toote and could only catch a glimpse of La Signora''s retreating figure.


    "Huff... huff..." E caught her breath and asked, "What did that person say?"


    "She said..." Lucas muttered, "She would remember this grudge."


    "I''m not joking around!" E snapped. "Why are you using my catchphrase?"


    "So you know it''s your catchphrase..." Lucas replied amusedly. "But I''m not lying, that''s exactly what she said."


    "Forget it; let''s not worry about her for now." E scanned the area and asked, "Where''s Terrence?"


    "Him?" Lucas pointed at the ground, looking a bit awkward. "Everywhere."


    "Huh?"


    ...


    After a brief exnation, E finally understood what had happened.


    "I''m sorry," Lucas sighed. "Even though he was your rtive, I had no choice but to kill him."


    "You don''t need to apologize to me," E shook her head. "Terrence, or any member of the Lawrence family, must take responsibility for their actions."


    Although E spoke as if she was unaffected, a trace of regret still shed across her eyes.


    Although she hadn''t interacted much with Terrence, given how the Lawrence family was dwindling, he was one of the few diligent and hardworking members left. She didn''t expect him to suddenly go mad, not only killing someone but even trying to attack her.


    "I don''t think it''s entirely his fault," Lucas said, revealing the [Ring of Maniption] on his wrist. "This was the bracelet he wore, and just now, it attached itself to my wrist like a living thing. Terrence''s transformation might be rted to it."


    "If that''s true..." E asked nervously, "Does that mean you might also end up like him?"


    "I''m not sure," Lucas shrugged. "Looks like I''ll need to consult a professional tomorrow to find out what this bracelet really is."


    "A professional... I might know someone," E said thoughtfully, touching her chin. "But she''s usually prettyzy. With the Wine Festival going on, she''s taken three days off, so it''s almost impossible to get her help during her vacation."


    "Who is it?" Lucas asked eagerly.


    "Lisa Minci, the librarian of the Knights of Favonius," E raised an eyebrow. "She''s a top graduate of the Sumeru Academia and well-read. She might have some clue."


    "Oh, it''s her," Lucas nodded. "That''s fine. I know where she lives, I can pay her a visit."


    "What? You know where Lisa lives?" E''s face showed surprise. "She hates being disturbed during her off-time. In the entire Knights of Favonius, fewer than three people know her address. How do you know? You two... you don''t have some kind of secret rtionship, do you?"


    The other members of the vanguard squad exchanged nces, barely holding back theirughter as they saw their usually calm and dignified captain show such an anxious expression for the first time.


    "What nonsense!" Lucas said with an awkward smile. "We just happened to meet during the Wine Festival."


    "Seems I was overthinking things," E coughed lightly, realizing her outburst. "That woman may look alluring, but she''s not interested in any man, let alone someone like you."


    "Am I really that unimpressive?" Lucas said, feeling a bit dejected. "I mean, I have some charm, don''t I?"


    "Stop... stop being so full of yourself," E turned her face away, trying to hide her embarrassed expression. "To Lisa, you''re just a little brother."


    "Oh?" Lucas looked at her with a sly smile. "And in your eyes, Sister E, am I also just a little brother?"


    The term "Sister" made E''s body shiver slightly.


    After all, that was what her little brother called her in the dream world.


    And this man in front of her not only looked exactly like him but even had the same expression when he said those words.


    "Yes, you''re nothing but a little brother!" E quickly turned away and addressed the other squad members who hade along. "Thanks foring out sote."


    "No problem!" one of the members replied with a smile. "After all, since our captain is working so hard, we can''t ck off."


    "Exactly!" another member nodded. "If you want to apologize, Captain, just treat us to some Moon Pies."


    "Moon Pies?" Lucas asked curiously. "What''s that?"


    "That''s Captain E''s specialty!" The squad member licked his lips. "Don''t be fooled by her serious demeanor¡ªher cooking skills are top-notch. If you married her, you''d never go hungry!"


    "D-Daring to tease the captain like that!" E stammered. "I''ll remember this grudge!"


    The squad members, of course, knew that E''s "grudges" were usually just talk.


    When they first joined E''smand, they had some biases against the Lawrence family. But over time, they realized E was a truly reliable captain.


    "And you," E muttered, still looking down and fiddling with her fingers, "daring to call me Sister so casually... I''ll remember that too. If you dare call any other woman that, I won''t forgive you!"


    "As you wish, Sister E," Lucas nodded with a smile. "I''ll head back and get some rest now. Goodnight."


    As she watched Lucas''s departing figure, E felt a sweet warmth welling up in her heart.


    A feeling she had never experienced before.


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the Goth Grand Hotel, inside the Doctor''s room.


    "What?" The Doctor, dressed in pajamas and applying a face mask, looked so shocked that it seemed the mask might tear. "The parasite was defeated?"


    "That''s right," La Signora said with displeasure. "Is this your brilliant n?"


    "What''s wrong with the n?" The Doctor showed no hint of remorse. "No one knows the connection between the [Ring of Maniption] and the Fatui, and it was a perfect opportunity to create some chaos."


    "If it results in deaths, that''s a different story," La Signora mmed the table. "My mission is to retrieve the Gnosis, not to kill people."


    "Why does it matter?" The Doctor shrugged. "They''re just Mondstadt citizens, and besides, their deaths would only help the ring umte more power."


    "Well, you might be disappointed," La Signora sneered. "Your bracelet is now being worn by someone else."


    "Ah, it seems my little treasure has found a stronger host," the Doctor said, unperturbed. "No matter. In a few days, that person will be corrupted by the ring, consumed by their own darkness, and turn into a mindless monster. By then, I''ll simply retrieve it."


    That man... will he also turn into a monster?


    Though she didn''t understand the connection between Lucas and the "Doctor" from her dreams, deep down, La Signora didn''t want Lucas to get hurt. Otherwise, she could have killed him earlier or cut off his hand.


    "I told you, I don''t want to cause that kind of chaos again," La Signora shook her head, offering an excuse. "Tell me, how can I remove the [Ring of Maniption]?"


    "Isn''t it simple? Just chop off his hand," the Doctor said, twirling a lock of hair around her finger. "Or better yet... kill him."


    "I... I want a gentler method," La Signora frowned.


    "Well, there is a way," the Doctor said with a wicked grin. "But... I doubt you can do it."


    "Ridiculous! There''s nothing I can''t do."


    La Signora, proud by nature, hated being underestimated. Seeing the Doctor''s response, she immediately asked, "Tell me, what''s the method?"


    "The [Ring of Maniption] is, to some extent, connected to the consciousness of its host," the Doctor said, tapping her temple with her index finger and smiling. "In other words, when the host''s consciousness enters a state of emptiness and detachment, the ring loses its mental connection and reveals a weakness."


    "Emptiness and detachment?" La Signora looked puzzled for a moment. "How does one even achieve that state?"


    "For example, through spiritual enlightenment, a massive emotional shock, or a sudden burst of inspiration during artistic creation." The Doctor, though often appearing unreliable, clearly had a wealth of knowledge. "Of course, such moments are incredibly rare. An average person might not experience any of these even once in their lifetime."


    ---


    Author''s Note: Rosalyn my love >_<

 Chapter 91: Villain Simulator, Ch 90

    <h4>Chapter 91: Viin Simtor, Ch 90</h4>


    "How could anyone easily achieve something like that!" La Signora gritted her teeth. "Are you messing with me?"


    "Of course not, because for ordinary people, there is another way to instantly reach a state of emptiness," the Doctor whispered softly in her ear. "It''s at the peak of ecstasy."


    Hearing those words, La Signora''s face flushed a bit as she muttered, "Y-You''re not just messing with me, are you?"


    "I swear by Her Majesty the Tsaritsa, it''s all true. If you don''t believe me, you can try it out yourself," the Doctor chuckled. "Of course, I doubt you''d lower yourself to do something like that."


    "Hmph!" La Signora was too irritated to respond, and she stormed out.


    After she left, the Doctor smirked slightly and said, "Come out, Lyudm."


    At his words, a young woman in a Fatui uniform slowly emerged from the shadows of the room, bowing her head. "What are your orders?"


    "You must have overheard our conversation just now," the Doctor said calmly. "La Signora is right, the [Ring of Maniption] must be retrieved as soon as possible. This task is yours."


    Lyudm wasn''t aware that the ring''s host was Lucas. She hesitated and asked, "Killing someone within Mondstadt''s walls, especially someone connected to the Knights of Favonius... that might not be wise."


    "Didn''t I mention another method earlier?" The Doctor gently lifted Lyudm''s chin with her finger, smiling. "With your skills, it shouldn''t be hard, right?"


    To the Doctor, everyone¡ªincluding herself¡ªwas merely a tool to be used to achieve her goals. That, of course, included Lyudm''s body.


    "I... I understand." Lyudm''s expression wasplex, but faced with the Doctor, she could only reluctantly agree.


    "Good. Then hurry up," the Doctor waved dismissively. "Don''t disappoint me."


    ...


    Due to the gruesome state of Terrence''s body, E''s vanguard squad had to spend the entire night on cleanup duty to avoid causing public panic the next day. They ended up packing his remains into an entire sack.


    The Knights of Favonius worked efficiently, especially when dealing with homicide cases. They quickly identified the deceased as a middle-aged widower from Mondstadt with no children or other rtives.


    This meant that if no one pressed charges, the Knights could issue a simple statement, even concealing the identity of the murderer.


    Furthermore, Terrence''s body was so severely mutted that identifying him was impossible.


    Jean, the Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, indeed considered concealing the truth. Her intention wasn''t to protect the Lawrence family''s reputation but to shield E.


    Over the years, E, as a member of the Lawrence family, had worked hard to slowly change the perception of Mondstadt''s citizens towards her. If the fact that a Lawrence hadmitted murder came to light during the Wine Festival, E''s years of effort would have been in vain.


    Not only that, but if the perpetrator''s identity were revealed, it wouldn''t just damage the already fragile reputation of the Lawrence family. E herself would also face immense pressure from within her own family for having killed a member of her extended family.


    Jean wasn''t a rigid leader, she understood that asional flexibility was necessary for the greater good.


    However, this proposal met with strong opposition from E herself. The reason was simple¡ªshe didn''t want any privileges due to her family name, and she believed her actions were justified.


    In the end, Jean had no choice but to agree to E''s request.


    By noon the next day, the Knights of Favonius released a statement. Though the murderer had been brought to justice, the incident still caused quite a stir.


    The reason was simple¡ªthe perpetrator was a member of the Lawrence family, and the crime happened during the Wine Festival!


    It was hard not to suspect that the Lawrence family was involved in some sort of conspiracy again.


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the VIP suite at the Angel''s Share tavern, a cute and delicate young bard stretched tiredly as he sat up in bed.


    "Ugh, my head hurts..." Venti rubbed his temples. For someone with his high alcohol tolerance, having a hangover headache was quite rare.


    However, the sight that greeted him quickly sobered him up.


    Laid out in front of him were photos, arranged to spell out the word "bet."


    Moreover, the content of these photos... could not be called ordinary¡ªthey were downright indecent.


    In the pictures, a drunken Venti was dressed in all sorts of embarrassing outfits, posing in variouspromising positions.


    As he looked through them, even the usually thick-skinned Venti couldn''t help but blush.


    "How did this happen..." Venti muttered, biting his lip. "Could this be the price of losing a drinking contest? But why would he take these photos, and what''s his real intention... Could he have... that kind of interest?"


    As this thought crossed his mind, Venti quickly checked his backside.


    Thankfully, he was still intact.


    Otherwise, if he had been taken advantage of by a man in such a ridiculous way, it would have been a huge loss.


    But...


    Venti couldn''t help but nce at the photos again, a hint of vanity on his face. "I never thought I''d look so cute in these outfits..."


    But he quickly shook his head and pped his cheeks. "No! Now''s not the time to think about that. I must find that guy immediately. If these photos get out... I''ll never be able to show my face again!"


    Although Venti didn''t really care much about his reputation or image, he was still one of the Seven Archons of Teyvat.


    If those photos only circted within Mondstadt, it might not be a big deal. But if they were spread to other nations, like neighboring Liyue, and caught Morax''s eye, it would be a colossal embarrassment.


    With this thought in mind, Venti hurried out the door without even bothering to tidy up.


    He spotted the bartender, Charles, cleaning up the tavern. When Charles noticed Venti, his expression became rather peculiar.


    "Charles!" Venti quickly called out, "Where did that man fromst night go?"


    Charles seemed thoughtful as he nodded and said, "Venti, you''re still young. Some things are fine to try out once, but don''t get too deeply involved."


    "W-What are you talking about?" Venti frowned slightly.


    "Take a look for yourself," Charles motioned toward Venti. "Young people these days are really open-minded, huh?"


    Venti looked down and saw that he was wearing ck stockings on his legs. Paired with his slender legs and delicate feet, they were actually more attractive than those of many women.


    "Lucas..." Venti gritted his teeth. "You''ll pay for this!"


    ...


    At that moment, Lucas had no idea that he had already made his way onto the Anemo Archon''s bad side.


    Even though he had a busy night, Lucas wanted to get to the bottom of the bracelet on his wrist as soon as possible. So, after lunch, he followed the business card Lisa had given him the previous night and went to her ce.


    He had already informed Zhang Luo that the weapons had been delivered safely, so there was no rush to return. Staying in Mondstadt for a few days wouldn''t be an issue.


    Lucas initially thought finding Lisa''s house would be a challenge, but he soon found himself standing before arge vi.


    The vi had a unique design, with herbs drying outside and arge, lush tree growing from the roof. It looked like something out of a fairytale¡ªa witch''s abode, perhaps.


    The door itself was a simple wooden panel with visible twisted grain patterns.


    "This should be the ce... right?"


    Lucas stood at the door and gently knocked, but no one came to answer.


    "Excuse me, is anyone there?"


    He knocked again, and this time, a displeased voice responded, "Stop knocking, it hurts!"


    To his surprise, a face formed on the wooden door, staring at him. "The mistress said she''s not seeing anyone during her vacation. You should leave."


    This unexpected sight startled Lucas, but he quickly pulled out the business card Lisa had given him. "Miss Lisa told me I coulde visit her."


    "You have that?" The face on the door nodded. "Alright, you can go in."


    Lucas expected the door to simply open, but instead, two legs sprouted from its lower end, and it began to walk out, looking ratherical.


    "What are you waiting for? Get inside already," the door said impatiently. "Haven''t you ever seen a walking door?"


    Of course not!


    "T-Thank you." Lucas held back his urge toment and hurried inside.


    The room was clean and tidy, with cheerful artwork hanging on the walls.


    Just then, a broom floated in from another room, sweeping the floor while swaying back and forth, as if it were dancing.


    By the window, a teapot poured water into a potted nt, while a cloth, moving like a spider, cleaned the ss.


    Wow, the entire room is fully automated¡ªso elegant!


    It seemed that all of this was Lisa''s doing.


    Though she was only a four-star character, her backstory portrayed her as a woman with unfathomable abilities.


    "Well, you really came."


    While Lucas was admiring the fascinating setup, a soft and seductive voice drifted in from a short distance away.


    When Lucas looked up, his face immediately turned a bit red.


    Lisa emerged from the bathroom, slowly drying her damp hair. She was wearing nothing but a small towel that struggled to contain her voluptuous figure, looking as though it could burst open at any moment.


    "S-Sorry!" Lucas quickly lowered his head. "I didn''t know you were bathing. Maybe I should wait outside."


    "Oh my, your face is red again. You''re so cute." Lisa didn''t seem offended at all and smiled. "It''s fine. I can tell you''re a good kid."


    "Actually, I came to see you because..."


    Lucas was about to exin his reason foring, but Lisa shook her head. "No rush. Sit down. Let''s chat over some tea."


    With a snap of her fingers, the teapot on the stove lifted into the air and poured tea into the cups on the table.


    Since he was there to ask for her help, Lucas felt it would be rude to refuse, so he sat down.


    Lisa, however, didn''t bother changing clothes. She sat across from him, still wrapped in her towel,pletely unbothered by the glimpses she offered with every movement.


    "If you want to look, just look. I don''t mind," Lisa said nonchntly. "I''m not the type to be stingy."


    Teasing Lucas wasn''t because Lisa was overly flirtatious; it was simply that she enjoyed toying with things she found "adorable."


    The Lucas in the simtor was unruly and reckless, but the real Lucas... was somewhat timid.


    After all, in the simtor, evenmitting heinous acts only led to a game over. But in reality, if he acted recklessly, he''d be looking at jail time.


    "Well, um..." Lucas quickly changed the subject. "This room is amazing. Is this what they call ''magic''?"


    "Indeed. But magic isn''t all that mysterious," Lisa said nonchntly. "Even at the Sumeru Academia, it''s less popr than fields like medicine or alchemy."


    Having visited the Sumeru Academia in the simtor before, Lucas deeply understood this.


    In Teyvat, magic was somewhat awkwardly positioned. Its theories wereplex and esoteric, its learning curve steep, and its rewards often didn''t justify the effort, making many people shy away from it.


    Unlike the settings in other fantasy worlds, in Teyvat, the presence of the "Vision" means that there is no concept of "elemental magic" as such. The primary function of conventional magic is mostly limited to object maniption or shaping.


    It is impossible to conjure fireballs with bare hands or create blizzards using magic alone. As a result, magic is rarely practical as an offensive method.


    Those with a Vision naturally have no need to go through the trouble of studying magic.


    And those without a Vision know that even if they study it to the fullest, they might never achieve powersparable to a Vision, so most give up halfway.


    As for Lisa, her mastery of magic was simply because, for her, magic was not difficult. Plus, it helped her bezy.


    Moreover, publishing papers and conducting research on magic easily earned her generous rewards.


    "What''s this? If you want to learn magic, I can teach you personally," Lisa said with a slight smile. "But my tuition fees... are quite high."


    It was obvious that the "tuition fees" Lisa mentioned were not as simple as Mora alone.


    "I think I''ll pass," Lucas waved his hand. "Let''s get to the point. Actually, I came today because I need your advice on something."


    "Could it be... a matter of the heart?" Lisa teased. "Like, should you choose E or Jean? Or... both?"


    "Please, no more teasing..." Lucas sighed, raising his wrist to reveal the bracelet he couldn''t remove. "Do you know what this is?"


    "Where did you get this?" Lisa''s expression finally turned serious. "Tell me everything, in detail."


    Seeing Lisa''s serious demeanor, Lucas didn''t dare hide anything and recounted everything that happenedst night. Of course... he glossed over the details of how he defeated Terrence.


    "Based on your description, this bracelet is most likely the fabled Ring of Maniption," Lisa said as she pped her hands. "Lany, fetch me the Relic Compendium, please."


    "Meow~"


    Azy cat''s meow sounded, and a plump blue cat leapt onto Lisa''sp, carrying a book.


    "Thank you," Lisa said, flipping open the rather old-looking book and nodding. "Just as I thought. Here, take a look for yourself."


    Lisa showed the book to Lucas. On the yellowed pages, there was indeed an illustration of a bracelet that looked almost identical to the one on Lucas''s wrist.


    However, the text beside the illustration was in an ancient script Lucas had never seen before, making it impossible for him to understand.


    ---


    Author''s Note: The extra Chapter will be uploaded as scheduledter today.. Still dealing with bad inte till nov 19..

 Chapter 92: Villain Simulator, Ch 91

    <h4>Chapter 92: Viin Simtor, Ch 91</h4>


    "Don''t be in such a hurry; let me exin it for you, cutie," Lisa smiled gently. "Simply put, the [Ring of Maniption] can amplify the hidden evil thoughts lurking deep within the wearer''s heart."


    "Evil thoughts?" Lucas seemed puzzled. "What kind of evil thoughts?"


    "Although it''s not entirely precise, theoretically, these evil thoughts are based on the seven deadly sins: pride, envy, wrath, sloth, greed, gluttony, and lust."


    With a snap of Lisa''s fingers, seven different colored symbols materialized in front of them. "Whenever the wearer experiences one of these sins, the ring amplifies that thought significantly and then absorbs the resulting negative energy from the host."


    It seemed that the reason Terrence was controlled by the [Ring of Maniption] was his envy of E''s talents.


    "But..." Lucas hesitated. "If that''s the case, wouldn''t the ring be useless if it attached itself to a good person?"


    "What a na?ve child," Lisa covered her mouth,ughing. "As they say, judge the deeds, not the heart. If we judge hearts, then no one in this world is perfect. It''s easy to live a life of good deeds, but it''s impossible to go a lifetime without a single evil thought. The moment any such thought arises, the ring seizes the opportunity."


    For a moment, Lucas fell silent. It was true. Even someone like him, who tried his best to remain virtuous, couldn''t avoid the asional evil thought.


    "Hehe..." Lisa suddenly whispered, "If you don''t believe me, why don''t we... run a little experiment?"


    "An experiment?" Lucas still hadn''t grasped her meaning.


    Lisa suddenly hooked her finger around the edge of her towel and gave it a gentle tug, revealing her wless figure entirely to Lucas''s eyes.


    Lucas tried to look away, but it was as if his eyes were held in ce by some invisible force; he couldn''t move them at all. The once pure white ring on his wrist had now turned a suggestive shade of pink.


    "Just as I suspected. Pink represents lust," Lisa said without a hint of shame, as if she were simply exining a concept. "No matter how much you try to hide it, seeing this, it''s impossible for your heart not to be stirred, right? Your eyes, unable to look away, are proof enough."


    In this regard, Lisa was quite confident.


    If Lucas wasn''t affected at all, wouldn''t that mean she had no charm whatsoever?


    "Alright, enough teasing," Lisa smiled as she prepared to wrap the towel back around herself. "After all, lust is one of the hardest sins to control."


    But at that moment, Lucas''s hand suddenly grabbed her wrist.


    "You''re being naughty," Lisa''s expression showed a rare hint of unease. "I''m doing this for your own good. Let''s wait until the ring is off, and then you can look as much as you want, okay?"


    However, Lucas did not respond to Lisa''s plea. His eyes were now covered in an enchanting pink hue.


    "Hah..."


    A low growl, like that of a beast, came from Lucas''s mouth as he leaped and pinned Lisa to the ground.


    "Meow!"


    The chubby blue cat, Lany, let out a startled cry. Seeing its owner pinned down, the little cat anxiously circled around, unsure of what to do.


    This wasn''t Lucas beingpletely controlled by the [Ring of Maniption]. In fact, he was fully "aware" of what he was doing, but the moral restraints he usually held onto had beenpletely discarded.


    He was in the same state as when he had furiously ughtered the Fatui members at the hilichurl camp. Conscious of his actions, but driven by the spread of evil thoughts, he acted uncontrobly in a wicked manner.


    It was like how an ordinary person, under extreme anger, mightmit murder without realizing it.


    "This joke is going too far," Lisa tried to pull herself free from Lucas''s grip, but the difference in strength left her unable to move at all. "If you keep this up, Big Sister is going to get mad!"


    Although Lisa often acted like she had plenty of experience, it was just an act to tease her cute juniors.


    If things got serious, she really wouldn''t be able to handle it.


    In reality, Lisa did have ways to deal with Lucas. The entire house was meticulously designed by her¡ªnot only was it almost fully automated, but she had also set up many weapons to handle unexpected situations.


    When it came to finding ways to bezy, Lisa was anything butzy.


    However, those defensive mechanisms were too violent, and Lisa didn''t want to harm the cute man in front of her, who was being controlled by dark thoughts.


    Looks like there''s no choice.


    A small smile appeared on Lisa''s face as she said, "If you want it, I''ll give it to you. There''s no need to be so forceful."


    With that, she turned the tables, lifting her head to kiss Lucas.


    This took Lucas by surprise. The kiss felt as if it possessed a special kind of magic, making his body go limp. The pink hue in his eyes dimmed significantly.


    Of course, "magic" wasn''t just a metaphor.


    The kiss was indeed one of the many spells Lisa had mastered¡ªthe Kiss of Paralysis.


    As the name suggested, the kiss caused the target to fall into a temporary state of paralysis. Lisa had specifically learned this spell for situations like this.


    She just never expected the first one to fall victim to it would be Lucas.


    Lisa gently pushed Lucas aside, and hey on the floor, slowly regaining consciousness.


    "I-I''m sorry!" Lucas apologized as he came to. "I just..."


    "No need to exin," Lisa didn''t seem angry; instead, sheforted him. "I underestimated the power of the [Ring of Maniption]... or perhaps I underestimated the depth of your dark thoughts."


    The [Ring of Maniption] could only amplify existing dark thoughts; it couldn''t create them out of nowhere.


    If Lucas''s repressed thoughts were weak, he wouldn''t have reacted so strongly just now.


    "This won''t do; it''s too dangerous..." Lucas said urgently. "How can I remove the [Ring of Maniption]?"


    If the reaction to a mere hint of lust was that intense, triggering other dark thoughts could be disastrous!


    "Apologies, but even I am not omniscient," Lisa shook her head. "There is very little information avable about the [Ring of Maniption]. I''ll need some time to conduct a thorough study. Maybe then, I''ll find a solution."


    "In that case, I''ll leave it to you, Miss Lisa," Lucas said sincerely. "Whether or not you find a solution, I''llpensate you for your efforts."


    "Do you think I''m someone whocks Mora?" Lisa waved her finger yfully. "But, I don''t want to work for free either. Let''s do it this way¡ªonce everything is settled, you''ll agree to one condition from me as payment."


    "No problem!" Lucas agreed without hesitation.


    After all, Lisa wasn''t a bad person; she likely wouldn''t ask him to do anything unreasonable.


    As for dealing with the [Ring of Maniption], Lucas had already prepared for the worst. If it came to that, he''d end his life and trigger the [Try Again] ability. That way, the ring would likely detach from his body.


    If the thing actively sought a host, it probably wouldn''t want to stay on a corpse.


    "But how much longer can I hold on?" Lucas suddenly realized something and asked, "Will I eventually lose my sanity, like Terrence did?"


    "Take a look at the bracelet''s surface," Lisa lifted Lucas''s wrist. "Every time it absorbs your dark thoughts, a ck mark appears on its once pure-white surface. Once it turnspletely ck, you''ll be the puppet of the [Ring of Maniption]."


    Sure enough, there was already a twisted ck line on the bracelet''s surface. It must have been a result of the lust from earlier.


    "I''ll do my best to suppress these thoughts." Lucas clenched his fist.


    "Well, I guess I''ll give you a little extra help," Lisa said as she turned around, bending down to rummage through a drawer behind her. "It should be in here somewhere."


    When she bent down, the small towel revealed its limitations once again.


    And as Lucas caught a glimpse of the abyss, the pink hue in his eyes started to stir once more.


    "No, I can''t!"


    This time, Lucas grabbed the now-cold tea from the table and sshed it on his face, snapping himself back to reality.


    Man, I really can''t let my guard down for a second.


    "Huh, what''s going on with you?" Lisa turned back,ughing. "Here, let me wipe that off for you."


    "N-No, that''s okay!" Lucas quickly declined. "I''m afraid I... won''t be able to take it."


    Just a nce almost made him lose it. If she actually got close... Forget sshing tea, even a sleep potion wouldn''t help!


    "Here, take this." Lisa handed Lucas a small, delicate bottle. "It''s a calming potion I concocted earlier. When dark thoughts start to overwhelm you, drink this to suppress them."


    "Thank you!" Lucas gratefully epted the bottle. "This will be a huge help!"


    "However, this potion only suppresses dark thoughts; it doesn''t eliminate them," Lisa warned. "So, don''t use it recklessly, or it could have the opposite effect."


    "I''ll keep that in mind." Lucas nodded. At that moment, a knock came from the door outside. "Lisa! Is Lucas in there?"


    "That''s the voice of Acting Grand Master Jean?" Lucas was surprised. "Is she looking for me?"


    "She sounds urgent. You should go," Lisa yawned. "I won''t see you out. It''s my nap time."


    "Goodbye!"


    As Lucas left, a faint smile curled at the corner of Lisa''s lips as she murmured, "He really is an interesting kid."


    "Master, I don''t understand..." At that moment, the blue cat Lany spoke in a human voice. "Judging by your expression earlier, you seem to know how to remove the [Ring of Maniption]. Why didn''t you tell him?"


    "There is indeed a method, but I don''t want to use my body as an experiment," Lisa said with a slightly sinister smile, biting her lip. "Besides, don''t you think it''s more interesting to let him wear it for a while longer...Of course I wouldn''t let him die"


    Lisa''sment made the chubby blue cat wrinkle its non-existent brows as it muttered, "You''re the real devil here..."


    "What are you saying, Lany?" Lisa suddenly grabbed the scruff of the blue cat''s neck. "And by the way, when I was pinned down earlier, why didn''t you use the transformation magic I gave you? Were you just enjoying watching your master being bullied? Bad kitty¡ªyou''ll have to be punished..."


    "Meow!"


    A pitiful yowl echoed through the treehouse, but outside, the two people seemed not to notice.


    Jean was indeed standing outside, and unlike her usualposed and calm demeanor, her expression showed a hint of anxiety. As soon as she saw Lucas, she rushed forward and said, "I''m afraid I have to trouble you for help!"


    "Don''t worry," Lucas quickly reassured her. "What''s the matter? Take your time exining."


    "It''s... it''s about E," Jean finally caught her breath. "After the murder casest night, and after we released the statement, E was immediately summoned back to the Lawrence estate."


    Lucas had already heard a bit about this. Although E''s actions were carried out in the line of duty, the incident had a severely negative impact on the Lawrence family''s reputation. It was no surprise that she had been summoned.


    "At first, I didn''t think it was a big problem," Jean said, handing Lucas a brief note. "But I just received a message from E''s personal maid."


    The note contained only a few words: Lady E is about to face severe punishment. Please help!


    Generally, the fewer the words, the more urgent the situation.


    "Technically, E is a member of the Knights of Favonius, so it should be my responsibility to handle this," Jean said, clearly conflicted. "However, the Lawrence family has long-standing grudges against my family and the Knights. If I intervene, it will only make things worse."


    "So, you need someone rted to the case but unaffiliated with the Knights of Favonius," Lucas immediately understood Jean''s intention. "That''s why you came to me."


    "Exactly!" Jean nodded. "I know this request may be sudden, but..."


    "No need to say more," Lucas ced a hand on her shoulder and smiled. "Leave it to me!"


    "Are you sure you can handle it?" A glimmer of hope appeared in Jean''s eyes. "The Lawrence family isn''t easy to deal with."


    "It''s fine," Lucas cracked his knuckles with a grin. "I''m curious to see what the Lawrence family is like nowadays."


    Jean didn''t quite understand his words.


    But for Lucas, in the simtor, he had a thousand-year-long connection with the Lawrence family. He was eager to see how far they had fallen in reality.


    ...


    At the Lawrence Estate.


    Even though the "Lawrence" name had been in decline for a thousand years, these former nobles still clung desperately to their past status.


    Like destitute aristocrats from fallen dynasties who, despite having nothing but pickled vegetables to eat, would still slice them thinly to maintain a semnce of elegance¡ªessentially, it was poor pretense.


    The grand front gates, although still polished to a shine, could no longer hide the cracks that told the tale of the Lawrence family''s decline and disgrace.


    This was not like the Lawrence family in the simtor. Lucas ced his hand on the gate, and for a brief moment, he felt as if he had be the master of the Lawrence family once again, the uncrowned king of Mondstadt.


    "Lawrence, your master has returned."


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    The Lawrence family''s assembly hall was filled with family members.


    This was the most solemn and austere location in the Lawrence estate. Portraits of past family heads lined the walls on either side, symbolizing the watchful gaze of the ancestors.


    In the most prominent spot stood a sword pedestal, holding an ornate blue greatsword¡ªthe Song of Broken Pines, the family''s treasured heirloom, which only the head of the family had the right to wield.


    Today''s central figure, E Lawrence, stood in the middle of the hall, the icy emblem on her chest shining brightly.


    The current head of the family, named Joseph, was well into his eighties. Sitting in the central seat, he appeared drowsy and unfocused.


    Of course, this so-called head of the family no longer held the power or influence of the past. The Lawrence family was now divided into several factions, each maintaining a fragile and precarious bnce.


    Terrence''s father, Hubbard, was the leader of one such faction.


    "E!" Hubbard red at his niece, his voice cold. "Why did youmit such a treacherous act against our family?"


    "I did nothing to betray the family," E replied calmly. "Terrence was a murderer and attacked me. It was only right for me to put him down."


    Her words caused several family members present to frown.


    The statement released by the Knights of Favonius did not specify who killed Terrence; it simply mentioned that it was done by a "vanguard squad."


    ----


    Author''s Note: I''d say Lucas should first kill the remainingwrence scumbags, then marry e and make Lawrence great again...

 Chapter 93: Villain Simulator, Ch 92

    <h4>Chapter 93: Viin Simtor, Ch 92</h4>


    E took the me upon herself because she didn''t want the Lawrence family to trouble Lucas.


    Moreover, everyone knew she was much stronger than Terrence; even if she denied it, no one would believe her.


    Ultimately, today''s "family trial" wasn''t just Hubbard''s way of avenging his son''s death¡ªit was also a move to weaken E''s influence within the family.


    E was simply too exceptional, so much so that all her Lawrence peers were overshadowed by her brilliance. If nothing unexpected happened, she was poised to be the next head of the family.


    This trial, however, could strip E of her right to inherit the position, giving Hubbard''s other sons a chance.


    Of course, it wasn''t just Hubbard; other family members shared the same idea.


    "So, you admit that you killed your own cousin?" Hubbard pressed.


    "I admit it," E responded firmly, "but I did nothing wrong."


    "Nothing wrong?" Hubbard mmed the table, shouting, "What is the thirteenth rule of the Lawrence family?"


    E hesitated briefly before responding, "If a family member tries to kill another, fiftyshes shall be the punishment. If the act results in death, the offender will be exiled."


    "Exactly!" Hubbard snarled. "But, in line with the Lawrence family''s tradition of leniency, we''ll wait for you to recover from your injuries before banishing you."


    "I object!" E frowned. "I still maintain that I did nothing wrong!"


    "Then, ording to the rules of the Lawrence family, we''ll settle this with a vote," Hubbard said confidently. "Everyone, raise your hands if you agree with the judgment."


    As Hubbard''s voice fell, the other members began to raise their hands one after another.


    "Agree!"


    "I agree..."


    "I... agree."


    Even those who initially wanted to oppose the decision felt pressured by the oppressive atmosphere and changed their stance.


    Soon, nearly everyone''s hand was raised, and it seemed the oue was set in stone.


    "Bang!"


    At that moment, the doors of the council hall were kicked open.


    "I object!"


    A medium-built man with ck hair and delicate features raised his hand as he strolled in leisurely from the entrance.


    Everyone was shocked. This was the Lawrence family''s council hall, where important family matters were discussed, and for a stranger to barge in was no small matter.


    Of course, the most surprised was E, because this uninvited guest... was Lucas.


    "Ahem..."


    Lucas casually walked in, coughing a few times as he waved his hand in front of his nose and smirked. "Did something rot in here? Why does it smell so bad?"


    "How dare you!" Hubbard roared. "To insult the council hall of the Lawrence family! Guards, seize him!"


    Several Lawrence guards immediately rushed at Lucas, but they were no match for him. Before they could even react, they were all swiftly knocked to the ground.


    "Tsk tsk, the current Lawrence generation is really disappointing," Lucas pinched his nose, running his finger along the length of the hall as he sneered. "I know what that stench is. It''sing from all of you, isn''t it? It seems the rot... is in you."


    Indeed, in Lucas''s eyes, these members of the Lawrence family, who held their titles yet did nothing, were already rotting, exuding a stench of decay.


    "Shut your mouth! Who are you?" Hubbard demanded, seething with rage.


    "Me?" Lucas smiled. "I''m the one who killed your son."


    "What... what did you say?" Hubbard trembled. "It was you?"


    "Exactly. Want to hear how it happened?" Lucas made an exaggerated gesture. "I used a weapon this long... and then... your son''s ass... Boom!"


    Lucas finished with an over-the-top explosive motion.


    Hubbard looked as if he might faint from fury.


    Not only had his son been killed, but the insult went straight to the heart!


    "I... I''m going to kill you!"


    Nearly losing his mind, Hubbard lunged at Lucas.


    But Lucas remained calm, saying, "This is the Lawrence family''s council hall, a ce for reason. If you start a fight here, what do your family rules dictate?"


    E quickly answered, "Thirtyshes."


    "So, what''s it going to be? Are you going to take the punishment first?" Lucas sneered. "Or will you let me finish speaking?"


    Hubbard managed to rein in his anger slightly. "Speak, then."


    "First of all, I killed Terrence, not E. She didn''t break any family rules," Lucas said, patting E''s shoulder. "Second, even if E had killed Terrence, ording to Mondstadtw, she wouldn''t be punished... unless, of course, you believe the Lawrence family''sws should override Mondstadt''s."


    This statement was a heavy usation. If Hubbard admitted it, it would mean openly challenging Mondstadt''sws.


    "But, I think..." Lucas''s tone shifted. "E, why don''t you take this opportunity to leave the Lawrence family altogether?"


    "W-What?" E murmured in disbelief.


    "Wouldn''t that be better? With your talent and hard work, you should have achieved great things long ago, but because of the Lawrence name, you''ve been held back," Lucas said, eyeing the scowling Lawrence members with disdain. "I really don''t understand why you choose to stay with these gutter rats."


    At this moment, Lucas didn''t seem to realize that the [Ring of Maniption] on his wrist had taken on a faint purple hue, representing the Sin of Pride.


    Lucas was unaware that he was already being influenced by dark thoughts. He was simply enjoying the feeling of looking down on others from a superior position. The [Ring of Maniption] couldn''t control the mind but amplified emotions linked to dark thoughts.


    Lucas walked toward the sword pedestal like a performer on stage, ncing at the dazzling family heirloom sword. "Is this the Lawrence family''s treasured sword? E, take it. No one in this family, except you, is worthy of wielding it."


    Even E now noticed that something seemed off with Lucas''s demeanor.


    The Lucas she knew was a kind and gentle person. But now, he was acting haughty and cruel, as if he were an entirely different person.


    "Enough!" E shouted. "Stop it!"


    "You!" Hubbard''s face showed clear panic. "Don''t you dare touch it!"


    "And what if I do?"


    Lucas smirked as he reached for the hilt of the Song of Broken Pines.


    The origin of this greatsword was quite interesting. It had yed an important role a thousand years ago during the rebellion against the old aristocracy.


    Back then, as both a rebel and a former Lawrence himself, Kreuzlied left this greatsword behind for the Lawrence family to pass down through the generations.


    Its purpose was to serve as a reminder to the Lawrence family, to prevent them from repeating the mistakes of the past.


    But as time passed, the proud and decaying Lawrence family naturally didn''t want to be reminded of their past humiliation. However, being an heirloom, they couldn''t just dispose of it.


    So, they erased the sword''s story, turning it into a mere family heirloom.


    Using a weapon that had once been used to overthrow their own power as an heirloom was ironic enough.


    What was even more ironic was that Kreuzlied had ced a curse on the sword: only a Lawrence descendant with a repentant heart could wield it.


    The result was obvious; over a thousand years, only a few had ever managed to wield the greatsword. By now, its symbolic significance had long surpassed its practical use.


    Seeing the sacred family sword held by an outsider, the members could no longer hold back. Some even stood up, cursing.


    These "noble" Lawrences couldn''t tolerate amoner touching their sacred relic.


    But then, something even more astonishing happened.


    With a crisp "ng," Lucas effortlessly drew the Song of Broken Pines from its pedestal.


    "Hahaha! So this is your so-called family heirloom?"


    To Lucas''s surprise, the greatsword, despite its massive appearance, felt as light as a feather in his hand. He could easily swing it with one hand. "They say only the heads of the family are worthy of wielding it, but it doesn''t seem like much after all."


    He didn''t realize that the reason he could wield the sword might be because... he had indeed been the head of the Lawrence family before.


    "P-Put it down!" Hubbard''s voice trembled. "Just wait¡ªyou''ll be cursed by the ancestors of the Lawrence family!"


    "And what of it?"


    Lucas even began twirling the Song of Broken Pines in front of everyone. Although he hadn''t learned any techniques for wielding a ymore, the sword was so light that it was no problem to handle it like a one-handed weapon.


    "If your ancestors were so powerful..." Lucas performed a few elegant sword flourishes, the blue glow of the sword dazzling the onlookers. Then, with a swift motion, he struck the floor with the sword, smirking. "Then why did they get overthrown in the first ce?"


    As soon as he finished speaking, a crisp "crack" echoed through the hall. The blue de snapped when it hit the ground, and a third of it flew off.


    The Lawrence members fell silent.


    Hubbard was silent.


    E was silent.


    Even Lucas himself was silent.


    In the quiet council hall, the only sound was the steady snoring of the family head, Joseph.


    This sudden turn of events snapped Lucas back to his senses, and the "pride" that had taken hold of him quickly retreated.


    Oh, crap!


    He''d messed up!


    Lucas couldn''t understand why he had impulsively put on such a performance just now.


    Logically, all he needed to do was deliver his message and ensure that E avoided punishment¡ªthen his task would beplete.


    But now, not only had he insulted the entire Lawrence family, but he had also broken their treasured heirloom sword.


    If they demandedpensation, would the Mora in the card Diluc gave him even be enough?


    Eh.. Maybe not.


    Well he just have to deceive these foolish nobles.


    With this thought, Lucas hesitated no longer. He suddenly knelt down, and when he rose, his eyes had transformed from ck to a vibrant purple, radiating a powerful aura as he regarded everyone with an air of indifference.


    The sudden act stunned everyone.


    E rushed forward in worry, eximing, "Lucas, are you... are you alright?"


    "I am not Lucas."


    Lucas suddenly flipped back up, standing upright. His entire demeanor changed from before. "I am Kreuzlied, the ancestor of the Lawrence family! Who dares act presumptuously?"


    Kreuzlied.


    Even if a Lawrence couldn''t remember all the names of their famous ancestors, the name Kreuzlied was etched into their history like a symbol.


    Back during the rebellion led by the Lionfang Knight, Vennessa, Kreuzlied''s organization yed a significant role. After the war ended, it was due to Kreuzlied''s efforts that the Lawrence family managed to survive.


    Seeing the stunned expressions of the people around him, Lucas continued in a booming voice, "The Song of Broken Pines was left behind when the Lawrence family fell a thousand years ago. I left this sword as a reminder for you to reflect upon yourselves. But it seems you have learned nothing. Today, I have descended upon this young man''s body to teach you ungrateful descendants a lesson!"


    This tactic was inspired by Stephen Chow''s movie King of Beggars.


    However, while Stephen Chow''s character, So Chan, deceived a group of uneducated beggars, "So Chan''s" audience now consisted of a group of self-proimed elite nobles.


    As expected, Hubbard was the first to express doubt, sneering. "What a pathetic act! You think you can really fool us?"


    "Hmph, Hubbard, those two mistresses you''re keeping, Shaline and Cici, haven''t been very well-behavedtely, have they?" Lucas countered. "I''ve been watching the Lawrence family, watching all of you. I know all your dirty secrets."


    Lucas was taking a gamble.


    Every Lawrence family member present, including E, had appeared in the simtor.


    As a former Enforcer in the simtor, Lucas Lawrence had been well aware of all the internal affairs within the family.


    For example, Hubbard''s mistresses¡ªthis was something that had happened in the simtor. Lucas spected that it might also be true in reality, so he used it as leverage.


    "W-What are you talking about?" Hubbard, who had been calm earlier, now looked flustered. "I''m utterly loyal to my wife!"


    However, the expressions of the other members turned subtle. Hubbard''s affairs weren''t exactly a secret; many people knew about them.


    A middle-aged woman suddenly rushed out of the crowd, wailing and pounding on Hubbard''s shoulder. "I knew it! That night you were drunk, you called out those two names! You... you even lied, saying they were your stray cats!"


    "D-Darling! Don''t listen to his nonsense!" Hubbard stammered, clearly embarrassed. "He''s just trying to deceive you!"


    "Hubbard''s wife, you''re no saint either," Lucas shrugged, grinning. "Of your husband''s three sons, do you even know how many are actually his? And what about that stable boy who was dismissed three years ago¡ªare you still in touch with him?"


    "W-What!" This time, Hubbard''s face turned green. "You wretched woman! I knew it! That''s why you always smelled like horse manure back then!"


    ----


    Author''s Note: Well...

 Chapter 94: Villain Simulator, Ch 93

    <h4>Chapter 94: Viin Simtor, Ch 93</h4>


    The sacred council hall had turned into a chaotic scene of farce.


    However, what shocked the members more than themotion was how an outsider could possibly know so much about them. Could it be... that he truly was possessed by their ancestor?


    Seeing that some of them still seemed doubtful, Lucas decided to go all out, revealing everything he knew:


    "Gray, you still owe two million Mora in high-interest loans from gambling, don''t you?"


    "Morritt, you visit those brothels every day¡ªbe careful, or you might catch some unspeakable disease."


    "And Rutherford, that anonymous novel you published, portraying the Lawrence family as the biggest viins... I must say, you''ve got guts."


    As it happened, these people were ones Lucas had persecuted in the simtor.


    Who would have thought they''d end up persecuted again in reality?


    Of course, this was just the beginning. Since he had already revealed so much, Lucas thought he might as well take this chance to expose everything rotten about this decaying family. It was time to turn them upside down and give them a thorough clean-up!


    As Lucas continued revealing more secrets, the hall grew increasingly restless. The reason was simple: everything he said was true. If he weren''t really possessed by an ancestor''s spirit, how could an outsider know so many secrets?


    Every so-called "noble" Lawrence had hidden filth of their own.


    By the end, all the members were on edge, silenced into submission. Lucas was now ready for his final move:


    "Look at you all! Which one of you isn''t supposed to be the backbone of the Lawrence family? Which one of you isn''t my descendant? You''ve all decayed, and it breaks my heart! I entrusted the Lawrence family to you, and you''ve turned it into this mess. It pains me deeply. Perhaps I should never have saved the Lawrence family back then!"


    "And you, pretending to be noble aristocrats¡ªare you really so clean? I know some of you are even filthier than those I''ve mentioned! More corrupt!"


    "Think about it¡ªhow did the Lawrence family fall back then? Have you forgotten? This sword, Song of Broken Pines, has stood here, watching you all every single day!"


    As he spoke, Lucas waved the broken sword in his hand. A blue light shot skyward, and to everyone''s astonishment, the shattered Song of Broken Pines miraculously restored itself.


    Even Lucas hadn''t expected this.


    He was puzzled. Could it really be that the ancestors of the Lawrence family were manifesting themselves?


    Not just Lucas; the other Lawrence members were now firmly convinced that this man was indeed possessed by the spirit of their ancestor!


    [Talent Activated: "Liar''s Bane"¡ªalmost everyone believes your lie.]


    Meanwhile, no one noticed a green-d youth sitting on the beam above, leisurely swinging his legs.


    Of course, it was none other than Venti, who had recently been tormented by Lucas.


    After what happened yesterday, Venti''s legs were bare, unlike his usual white socks. His slender, pale legs still bore faint red marks.


    "This time, you owe me a huge favor," Venti whispered to himself with a smile. "I''m definitely getting those photos back!"


    Holding the restored greatsword in his hand, Lucas''s expression of surprisested only for two seconds. He quicklyposed himself, walking confidently over to E with a smile. "E Lawrence, based on my observation, you are the only descendant in this family worthy of wielding this sword. Take it!"


    E was skeptical, but at this point, even if Lucas was acting, she had no choice but to y along.


    She knelt on one knee, raised both hands, and solemnly received the Song of Broken Pines.


    "My spirit now resides within this sword!" Lucas spread his arms. "If anyone dares to insult or harm her again, I shall descend upon this vessel once more and deliver punishment!"


    With that, Lucas''s body shivered, and his eyes slowly changed back to ck, feigning confusion. "Strange... what just happened?"


    Everyone remained silent. If Lucas had truly forgotten what had just transpired, that was for the best. After all, everything he had said earlier was deeply incriminating family scandal.


    "Ahem..."


    At that moment, the long-sleeping family head, Joseph, suddenly coughed lightly. He opened his slightly cloudy eyes and said in a deep voice, "There''s no need to pretend like nothing happened. The Lawrence family... does need to reflect on itself."


    "E, having already obtained the Crest of Frost and now receiving the family''s heirloom and the blessing of our ancestor''s spirit, I, Joseph Lawrence, officially dere E Lawrence as the sessor of the family head."


    "W-Wait a moment. Wouldn''t that be like appointing her directly..." Hubbard, still unwilling to concede, protested, "Family Head, I suggest we hold a vote instead..."


    "A vote for this, a vote for that¡ªdoes my word no longer hold any weight as family head?" Joseph replied coldly. "Do you really think I''m just a sleepy old man?"


    Even if his power had waned, the family head was still the family head. No one dared openly defy him, not even if Joseph was a frail old man.


    "Besides, if E isn''t made the sessor, should we allow one of your sons to inherit the position?" Joseph added nonchntly. "Are you even sure they''re really yours?"


    Hubbard''s face turned pale at those words, and he quickly lowered his head.


    "After I pass, E will inherit the position of family head..." Joseph''s voice suddenly grew faint. "I... I..."


    At that, his head slumped forward.


    Everyone was stunned. E quickly stepped forward in rm. "Family Head, you¡ª"


    A strange, rancid smell filled the air.


    No way...


    Lucas felt speechless. Did he really just die? And how could it smell this bad already?


    At that moment, Joseph lifted his head again and muttered, "Old problem... couldn''t control it, let out a little..."


    Everyone: "..."


    ...


    Despite everything that had happened, the farce eventually came to an end. Not only did E escape punishment, but she also unexpectedly gained the Song of Broken Pines and the right to seed as family head. It was truly a big win for her.


    "Thank you for helping me today," E said, her expression somewhatplicated as she stood at the entrance of the Lawrence estate. "What happened just now... was it real, or were you acting?"


    "Does it matter if it was real or an act?" Lucas gave a vague response. "The important thing is that everything was resolved, right?"


    "That was just luck," E frowned. "Do you realize how dangerous that was? Not only could you have failed to help me, but you might have gotten yourself into trouble as well."


    "Of course, I knew that," Lucas smiled. "But even so, I had to help you."


    "Idiot..." E''s face softened with a hint of emotion. She hugged her arm and murmured, "Why go this far? We''ve only known each other for a day."


    "Only for a day?" Lucas replied with a teasing smile. "I feel like we''ve known each other for much longer."


    Deep down, both of them felt a sense of connection, as if they were "soulmates from a past life."


    Of course, neither of them could voice this out loud¡ªwhether it was a simtor or a dream, either exnation would sound absurd.


    "You know, you''re not using this line on every girl you meet, are you? I''m not that easy to fool," E narrowed her eyes. "And how did you know I was in trouble?"


    "Actually, it was Jean who asked me to save you." Lucas then recounted how Jean had requested his help earlier.


    "Jean, huh?" E mused. "Don''t think for a second that this will make me go easy on her when we duel."


    "Are you heading back to the Knights now?" Lucas asked. "Since you''re safe, it''s best to let Jean know."


    "Could you inform her for me?" E shook her head. "I need to return and handle the matters rted to my session."


    "Oh, I almost forgot," Lucas chuckled. "Then let me congratte you in advance on bing the head of the family."


    E seemed to think of something and handed the Song of Broken Pines back to Lucas. "Here, take this for now."


    "Huh?" Lucas was surprised. "Are you giving me your family heirloom? Isn''t that a bit much?"


    "Don''t tter yourself!" E huffed. "It''s just temporary custody. Right now, I''m not qualified to wield it. When I''m strong enough, I''lle and im it from you."


    "I... look forward to that day," Lucas said solemnly as he took the sword back.


    [Song of Broken Pines]


    [Grade: S]


    [Effect: Each time an attack hits, it umtes a Whisper Rune. Each rune can trigger one of the following effects: (1) Physical damage +5%, (2) Elemental damage +5%, (3) Attack speed +5%. (Whisper Runes can stack infinitely, but eachsts for 20 seconds.)]


    [Description: As light as the breeze brushing through the trees, yet as destructive as the hurricane uprooting them.]


    Indeed, an S-ranked weapon had extraordinary effects.


    Though it differed slightly from the in-game version, it remained extremely powerful. In simple terms, the faster one''s attack speed, the higher the stacked effects would be.


    Additionally, the Song of Broken Pines had a "hidden attribute"¡ªits weight was astonishingly light, even lighter than a one-handed sword. This ensured the wielder could attack quickly and umte Whisper Runes more efficiently.


    ...


    Watching E turn and walk through the gates, Lucas finally felt relieved and prepared to leave.


    But as he turned, he noticed a familiar figure standing behind him with arms crossed, waiting.


    "Isn''t this Venti?" Lucas greeted him with teasing friendly smile. "So, did you enjoyst night''s drinks?"


    "Don''t y dumb!" Venti''s cheeks flushed. "You know perfectly well what you didst night!"


    "I was just fulfilling the bet we made during the drinking contest," Lucas said shamelessly. "Rx, it''s just a few photos."


    "A few?" Venti bit his lip slightly. "How many exactly?"


    "Three... three or four hundred, I guess." Lucas responded.


    "T-Three or four hundred?!" Venti eximed. "Let me see!"


    Lucas didn''t expect Venti''s first reaction upon hearing the number was not to ask him to delete them but to want to see them himself.


    "Sure, you can take a look," Lucas said, ncing around. "But are you sure you want to look at them here?"


    If the Knights of Favonius caught them, they''d definitely be charged with distributing indecent materials in public¡ªno question about it.


    "Just hand them over already!" Venti demanded firmly for once. "I helped you back in the Lawrence estate earlier, didn''t I? That''s why you were able to trick them all."


    At that, Lucas finally realized why the Song of Broken Pines, which he had identally broken earlier, had magically repaired itself.


    It had to be Barbatos''s doing.


    Still, Lucas feigned ignorance. "And how could a simple bard like you pull off something like that?"


    "I''m a¡ª" Venti nearly blurted out his identity but quickly regained hisposure, adopting a pleading tone. "In exchange for the favor, please... just give me the photos."


    As Venti made a face as cute as a kitten, Lucas, of course... chose to refuse. "Even if you did help, I never asked you to."


    Lucas''s words made Venti clench his teeth in frustration, while Lucas himself felt a strange sense of satisfaction.


    This was payback for all the times Barbatos had teased him in the simtor.


    "But I''m not ungrateful," Lucas said, pretending to be generous. "I''ll return half of the photos to you. As for the other half, I''ll keep them for now."


    The great Anemo Archon, Barbatos, had never been ckmailed like this before. Frowning, he asked, "What do I have to do for you to return the rest?"


    "I''m sure I''ll need your help in the future," Lucas grinned mischievously. "You wouldn''t want these photos falling into the wrong hands, would you?"


    If not for his divine vow to avoid interfering with humans, Venti might have alreadyshed out at Lucas.


    "I... I understand." Venti reluctantly extended his hand. "I''ll keep my promise. Now, give me half of them."


    "Hold on a second," Lucas said as he casually pulled out arge photo album from his pocket dimension. He began flipping through it. "Hmm, I like this one. And this one too..."


    "You even made an album!" Venti was on the verge of losing his mind. "And there''s no way this is just three or four hundred photos!"


    "Some of them are high-res close-ups, taking up an entire page," Lucas exined, turning the album toward Venti. "Look at this one¡ªevery detail is crystal clear!"


    "I don''t want to look!"


    Despite his protest, Venti covered his eyes with his hands but still peeked through his fingers.


    In the photos, his expression was dreamy, his pose seductive¡ªa disgrace to the Seven Archons.


    He felt humiliated!


    "And while I was taking the photos, I noticed a little secret about you..." Lucas whispered close to Venti''s ear. "It seems like... you''re missing something down there."


    Hearing those words, Venti''s already grim expression turned toplete stone.


    ording to the lore, the body Venti currently uses was modeled after an old friend from long ago.


    Barbatos''s true form is merely a wisp of wind among the thousand winds, without a defined gender.


    Assuming a human form was purely for convenience while interacting with mortals, so there was no need to make the body too detailed. Barbatos had only created two channels for basic metabolism.


    This body was neither male nor female.


    Just like when Raiden Ei crafted the first puppet, Scaramouche, some "unimportant" details were left out.


    "I''ve been...pletely exposed..." Venti murmured, his voice tinged with disbelief.


    ---


    Author''s Note: HAHHAHA SUFFER MORE VENTI

 Chapter 95: Villain Simulator, Ch 94

    <h4>Chapter 95: Viin Simtor, Ch 94</h4>


    "Don''t worry," Lucas said softly. "I won''t tell anyone about this. After all, we''re good friends, right?"


    "Please... just stop!" Venti pleaded, his face flushed with embarrassment. "Give me the photos, I''m begging you."


    "Sure, here you go," Lucas said, slowly pulling out a thick stack of photos and handing them over to Venti. He smiled mischievously. "There are no negatives, so be careful not to lose them."


    "You better not be lying..." Venti hurriedly reached for the photos, but just as his hand was about to grab them, Lucas "identally" let go. "Oops, my hand slipped!"


    The moment the photos fell to the ground, a sudden gust of wind swept through, sending the pictures flying in all directions.


    Venti''spromising photos were now scattered in the air like confetti.


    "Look what you''ve done!" Venti eximed, his voice rising in frustration. "You did that on purpose, didn''t you?!"


    "Ehe," Lucas teased, yfully tapping his head and sticking out his tongue. "Rather than ming me, I suggest you hurry up and gather those photos."


    "Damn it!" Venti, who loved ying pranks himself, had never been on the receiving end like this. He raised his hand toward the sky, and with a flick of his fingers, an invisible gust of wind gathered all the photos into a swirling vortex, pulling them back into his hand like a vacuum cleaner.


    Normally, Venti avoided using his powers openly, but this was a special situation.


    Lucas pped his hands in admiration. "Impressive!"


    "Don''t underestimate me," Venti boasted as he held up the stack of photos proudly. But then, his expression changed. "Wait... why does it feel like a few are missing..."


    "Are you talking about those ones?" Lucas pointed up, where a few remaining photos had already drifted far away on the wind.


    "Don''t you dare!" Venti immediately kicked off the ground, using wind currents tounch himself into the air in pursuit of the photos. As he flew off, he yelled back at Lucas, "You better keep the rest safe for me!"


    "Got it, see you~" Lucas waved casually.


    As Venti disappeared into the distance, Lucas smirked. "By the way, about those ''no negatives''¡ªthat was a lie."


    ...


    With the Lawrence family matter resolved, Lucas finally felt some relief. He had originally nned to head back to the Knights of Favonius, but his stomach growled with hunger. It suddenly dawned on him that he had been running around all day and hadn''t eaten a single meal.


    Luckily, the marketce wasn''t far. How could he visit Mondstadt without trying the local delicacies at the famous "Good Hunter" restaurant?


    Unlike the bustlingmercial city of Liyue, Mondstadt''s economy was much more modest. Many merchants didn''t even have proper shops; they simply set up stalls along the street. Even many of the restaurants were open-air, giving the city a cozy, weing atmosphere.


    This city felt both strange and familiar to Lucas. As he entered the marketce, the sound of nging metal caught his attention.


    In the nearby cksmith shop, a burly, bearded man was swinging a hammer, shaping a de. Behind the counter, a young man with thick eyebrows and a frustrated expression was buried in a ledger.


    It was Wagner the cksmith and his apprentice, Schulz!


    In the simtor, Lucas had caused the deaths of both of these men, but here in reality, they were still alive and well.


    Seeing them alive filled Lucas with a strange sense offort, as if their existence was proof that the terrible things he had done in the simtor weren''t real.


    Interestingly, the name of the cksmith shop was "Schulz''s Forge," named after the apprentice. This had been the result of a drinking contest Wagner had lost, and as punishment, he''d had to name the shop after Schulz.


    Lucas entered the cksmith shop, and as he expected, despite Wagner''s weapons being of exceptional quality, his gruff and arrogant demeanor meant business wasn''t exactly booming.


    As Lucas stepped inside, Schulz greeted him with a smile. "Wee, wee! All weapons and equipment are 20% off today, and we offer even better discounts if you buy more!"


    "There''s no discount!" Wagner snapped, shooting a re at Schulz. "Just because I lost a bet and named the shop after you doesn''t mean you''re the boss here!"


    "Master, now''s not the time to be stubborn," Schulz replied helplessly. "Selling at a discount is better than not selling anything at all. If things keep going like this, we''ll have to close the shop for good!"


    "This isn''t about money," Wagner said firmly, shaking his head. "These weapons are the result of my hard work. If I sell them for less than they''re worth, they''ll be heartbroken."


    "I think the weapons will be even sadder if they stay here unsold," Lucas chimed in. "With such high-quality craftsmanship, how could business be slow?"


    "Ah, you must not know," Schulz sighed. "Ever since the attacks by Stormterror, the monsters outside the city have be much more aggressive. As a result, ore prices have skyrocketed, making production costs higher than ever. Master Wagner refuses to lower prices, which is why our business is suffering."


    "On top of that, the Knights of Favonius had ordered a batch of weapons from us, but Liyue sent over a shipment of equipment as a gift, so they canceled the order," Schulz exined further.


    Lucas felt a bit awkward upon hearing this.


    So, it turned out that Keqing''s goodwill gesture of sending free equipment had inadvertently put Wagner''s forge in a tough spot.


    "Hmph!" Wagner grunted. "Free equipment? There''s no way those weapons are as good as mine. The Knights will regret their decision!"


    "Not necessarily." Lucas pulled out his [Lion''s Roar] sword from his inventory. "This is one of the weapons Liyue sent. Want to take a look at the quality?"


    Wagner''s gaze was immediately drawn to the [Lion''s Roar] sword. He held it in his hands, inspecting it from every angle. After a while, he let out a deep sigh and said, "This is definitely Liyue craftsmanship. The cksmith who forged this sword must have skills on par with mine."


    Of course, Lucas had yed a little trick. Although the [Lion''s Roar] was indeed crafted by a Liyue cksmith, it was one of the highest-quality weapons from the batch, which was why Keqing had specifically set it aside for Lucas.


    While Wagner''s personality was less than agreeable, there was no denying his talent as a cksmith. He nced at Lucas and asked, "Where did you get this sword?"


    "Well..." Lucas replied awkwardly, "I''m actually the one responsible for delivering that batch of weapons from Liyue."


    Upon hearing this, both Wagner and Schulz''s expressions changed slightly.


    "So," Wagner sneered, "you came here just to mock me, didn''t you?"


    "No," Lucas shook his head. "Actually, I want to purchase this shop. I will supply you with ores, tools, and even blueprints. All you have to do is continue forging weapons as you always have. You can set your own prices, and I''ll pay you based on a percentage of the profits."


    "R-Really?" Schulz''s face lit up with excitement. "Master, this could save the shop!"


    Wagner, despite his stubbornness, wasn''t a fool. He eyed Lucas with suspicion. "Why should I trust you? Supplying ore is one thing, but blueprints? You think they''re that easy toe by?"


    "Your skepticism is understandable," Lucas nodded. "Give me a moment, and I''ll be right back."


    With that, Lucas left the shop and found a secluded spot to summon the Serenitea Pot.


    It had only been a few days since hest entered the teapot realm, but already there had been significant changes. What had once been a few scattered wooden huts had now grown into a small vige. The Hilichurls, once d only in animal skins, were now wearing proper clothes.


    Lucas couldn''t help but feel that the Hilichurls were starting to resemble humans more and more.


    "Ha!"


    Suddenly, a loud shout echoed in the distance. Surprisingly, none of the Hilichurls reacted to the sound, as if they had grown ustomed to it.


    Lucas followed the sound and saw two figures engaged in a fierce battle¡ªit was the female Hilichurl chieftain sparring with Raiden Mai, Lucas''s loyal puppet.


    The chieftain wielded a massive iron rod, swinging it fiercely at Raiden Mai, but thetter calmly dodged the attacks with ease. With a quick sidestep, Raiden Mai maneuvered behind the chieftain and struck her in the back of the neck with a single precise hand chop, knocking her unconscious. As the chieftain copsed, Raiden Mai caught her gently before she hit the ground.


    "Looks like she hasn''t given up yet," Lucas chuckled as he approached Raiden Mai. "How''s managing the Hilichurls going?"


    "Master," Raiden Mai greeted him, her tone as calm as always. Perhaps due to her being a puppet, she didn''t show much emotion, even upon seeing Lucas. "They are a bit wild, but strong. They excel at gathering and mining, but when ites to tasks that require patience, like weapon forging, only a few are capable."


    That result didn''t surprise Lucas. Most Hilichurls wielded crude weapons, which indicated theycked the aptitude for more intricate craftsmanship.


    "No worries. I''ve found a more suitable cksmith," Lucas smiled. "I need a few samples of ore, and can you help me analyze these weapon blueprints?"


    Lucas handed over the weapons he had obtained earlier, asking Raiden Mai to analyze them. She quickly processed the simpler weapons, but when she reached the blueprint for the [Song of Broken Pines], her expression shifted slightly¡ªan unusual urrence for her.


    "Master," Raiden Mai said with a rare hint of hesitation, "this weapon''s grade surpasses my current forging capabilities. Moreover, the materials required to forge it are extremely rare. Reproducing a weapon of this quality is nearly impossible."


    Lucas wasn''t surprised.


    In the lore of the game, weapons of this caliber, like five-star weapons, often had extraordinary origins¡ªcrafted by gods or tied to significant historical events. They weren''t something that could be easily replicated through conventional means.


    Even with Raiden Mai''s talent, or even with Raiden Ei herself, it would be a challenge to recreate such a weapon.


    "That''s fine," Lucas reassured her. "What you''ve already done is more than enough."


    "While I cannot fully replicate the weapon, I can try to create a simplified version of the blueprint," Raiden Mai offered. "Allow me to try."


    Even though Raiden Mai always appeared stoic, her unwavering loyalty to Lucas was evident in her desire to help him in any way she could.


    "Of course," Lucas nodded. "But don''t push yourself too hard."


    After about half an hour of analysis, Raiden Mai finally produced a blueprintbeled [Prototype Song of Broken Pines].


    Although Lucas wasn''t familiar with weapon forging, theplexity of the blueprint¡ªfilled with intricate steps¡ªwas obvious even to him.


    The fact that Raiden Mai had managed to replicate even a simplified version of the artifact was astounding. It was as if she were the cksmithing equivalent of Doraemon!


    "You''re amazing, Mai," Lucas praised her, patting her on the head. "Thank you so much."


    "Helping Master brings me great joy," Raiden Mai responded, though her face remained expressionless.


    After Lucas left the Serenitea Pot, Raiden Mai''s body began to tremble slightly, with faint wisps of smoke rising from her ears and mouth.


    "Overloaded... I pushed myself too hard," she murmured. "But for Master''s praise... it was worth it."


    ...


    Back at the cksmith shop, Lucas spread the ores and blueprints across the counter.


    "Schulz, go check the quality of these ores," Wagner instructed, picking up the blueprints with a skeptical look. "As for these blueprints, don''t think you can fool me with some third-rate designs."


    However, as Wagner flipped through the blueprints, his dismissive expression slowly faded. By the time he reached the final blueprint, his eyes were wide with excitement, practically glowing with awe.


    "Well, Mr. Wagner?" Lucas asked confidently. "Do these meet your standards?"


    A skilled chef can tell the vor of a dish just by ncing at the recipe.


    Simrly, a master cksmith like Wagner could immediately see the brilliance in the blueprintsid before him. The final design, in particr, the [Prototype Song of Broken Pines], far exceeded his expectations.


    "Please... please let me forge these weapons!" Wagner eximed, visibly excited. "I don''t care if you take over this shop¡ªno, you can have it for free! Just let me forge these weapons!"


    His apprentice, Schulz, was equally taken aback, not because his master was willing to give the shop away, but because Wagner, a man known for his foul temper and harsh words, had just said the word "please."


    "Don''t worry, I won''t take advantage of you," Lucas said calmly as a contract appeared in his hand, as if out of thin air. "Just sign here."


    [Talent Activated: "Capitalist." Paid 6.4 million Mora (discount applied, tax-free), acquiring full ownership of "Schulz''s Smithy."]


    [Ownership acquired. Would you like to rename the shop?]


    "Rename it, huh?" Lucas rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Let''s go with... ''Dragon''s Breath Smithy.''"


    [What a tasteless name.]


    "Who asked for your opinion?" Lucas snapped back.


    At that moment, Lucas had no idea just how far this "tasteless" name would go in the future.


    It''s worth noting that the [Capitalist] talent wasn''t just about getting discounts. Once the purchase wasplete, the shop fully belonged to the user in every sense. A new [Assets] section appeared in Lucas''s system interface, allowing him to monitor the shop''s financial status, employee details, and other information as if he were ying a management simtion game.


    As for the 6.4 million Mora he used to purchase the shop, along with the capital needed to run it, it was all paid with the ck card that Diluc had given him.


    Luckily, Diluc didn''t care about money; otherwise, he might have been a bit puzzled as to how Lucas had managed to spend nearly 10 million Mora in just two days.


    Even if he found out, Diluc probably wouldn''t mind¡ªhe might even be pleased. After all, being the heir to Dawn Winery meant knowing how to spend money was a valuable skill.


    ...


    After grabbing a quick bite at "Good Hunter," Lucas headed to the Knights of Favonius headquarters to report on the situation with E.


    However, the gatekeeper informed him that Acting Grand Master Jean had been up all night dealing with a murder case and was currently resting. He also mentioned that if Lucas came by, he could wait in Jean''s office.


    With nothing else to do, Lucas settled into Jean''s office and began flipping through the novels she had on her shelf.


    At that moment, the long-silent voice of his system, Xiao Xi, suddenly chimed in:


    [Ah~ Little Xi''s simtor has been so lonely without its host ying~ I miss your presence, Host~]


    For some reason, Lucas''s mind immediately tranted this into, "Ah~ Anya! Waku waku!"


    "Come to think of it..." Lucas mused. "I really haven''t used the simtor in a while."


    [Let''s y! Waku waku!]


    "Stop copying other people''s catchphrases!" Lucas groaned, rubbing his forehead. "You''re not as cute as Anya, you know."


    ----


    Author''s Note: Originally the smithy was named "Daily Good Deeds Forge"...


    Well if you got any better name tell me.. I just named it that cuz of Ursa xD


    And as a new week has started, lets reach 600 ps today and I give you 2 more Chapters!

 Chapter 96: Villain Simulator, Ch 95

    <h4>Chapter 96: Viin Simtor, Ch 95</h4>


    [But just like Anya, I can read your mind! You definitely want to start another simtor run, right? Maybe you''ll even find a way to unlock the mystery of the Ring of Maniption.]


    Xiao Xi certainly knew Lucas better than anyone.


    "You''re not wrong," Lucas nodded in agreement. "I''m bored just waiting around anyway. Let''s y until Jean gets back."


    [Please select three talents from the following list. One will be randomly retained as a permanent talent after the simtion ends.]


    - [Left-Handed (White): You excel at using your left hand.]


    - [Growing Old Together (Green): If you have a partner, both you and your partner''s lifespan will be extended by 20 years.]


    - [Alchemist (Purple): You have an exceptional talent for alchemy. When performing alchemy, there''s a chance to create special products.]


    - [Path of Detachment (Blue): While single, all your attributes are increased by 50%.]


    - [Respected (Blue): You are more likely to earn others'' respect.]


    - [Demolition Genius (Blue): All your "explosive" attacks deal 50% more damage and have 100% increased range.]


    - [Ouw (Blue): You have a 50% higher sess rate when performing any "criminal" actions.]


    - [Beyond Yin and Yang (Blue): You are neither male nor female.]


    - [Freedom of Choice (White): If you be pregnant, you are required to give birth.]


    - [Furry Enthusiast (White): You have a strong liking for furries.]


    After a quick scan of the talents, Lucas''s attention was immediately drawn to [Alchemist]. It was the only purple talent, and its practical effect made it highly valuable. Even if he gained no other rewards from this simtor run, retaining this talent would make it worthwhile.


    As for the other talents, none particrly caught his interest. He casually selected the blue [Demolition Genius], and for thest pick, he chose his reliable go-to: [Try Again], a talent that allowed for a second chance.


    [Talent selectionplete. Generating character profile.]


    [Simtion beginning...]


    [Age 0: You are born in a vige near Mondstadt. Your father works in a mining operation, specializing in explosives.]


    [Age 1: Though your family isn''t wealthy, you never go hungry.]


    [Age 2: Due to his job, your father rarelyes home. But whenever he does, he always brings you gifts.]


    [Age 3: Nothing of note happens.]


    [Age 4: Perhaps because of your father''s profession, you develop a strong interest in explosives and gunpowder from an early age.]


    [Age 5: While ying, you identally ignite some gunpowder, blowing arge hole in the kitchen wall (Talent: Demolition Genius activated). Your father gives you a sound beating for it.]


    [Age 6: Realizing your keen interest in explosives, your father starts teaching you basic techniques. He isn''t highly educated, so most of what he teaches you is based on practical experience rather than formal knowledge.]


    [Age 7: You be close friends with your neighbor Virginia, who follows you everywhere like a shadow.]


    [Age 8: You take Virginia on an adventure, using homemade explosives to fish in the river. After getting reported to the vige chief, both of you receive a severe scolding. However, this doesn''t dampen your passion for explosives in the slightest.]


    [Age 9: Your skill in making explosives has be increasingly refined. Sometimes, your ingredient ratios are even more precise than your father''s, which makes him proud. If the mining crew didn''t have age restrictions, your father would have wanted you to join him sooner.]


    [Age 10: You frequently use your homemade explosives for pranks, like scaring people with loud bangs. Virginia is often the target of your mischief. You love seeing her cry and then chase you angrily.]


    [Age 11: Your father discovers your "hobby" and gives you a serious talk: Gunpowder is dangerous. It can harm people, but it can also protect them. He acknowledges your talent but warns you not to use it for the wrong purposes.]


    [You brush off his concerns, dering that your dream is to create the most powerful weapon in the world, one even more potent than a Vision.]


    [Age 12: Your father uses all his savings to send you to school in Mondstadt. However, you''re uninterested in the boring subjects they teach. You long for your explosives, the freedom of the countryside, and Virginia''s smile.]


    [Age 13: Despite your disinterest in most subjects, you develop a keen interest in alchemy. You discover thatbining alchemy with gunpowder could produce more stable and effective explosives (Talent: Alchemist activated).]


    [However, alchemical tools and materials are not freely avable, so you apply for a job cleaning the alchemy ssroom. In your spare moments, you secretly conduct your experiments.]


    [Age 14: Your intelligence and talent lead to progress in your research, although it remains a secret. Mondstadt enforces strict regtions on alchemy, especially prohibiting weapon-rted research.]


    [Age 15: Ironically, your pursuit of stronger explosives leads to an unexpected result: your alchemy grades skyrocket. You are offered a schrship to further study alchemy at Sumeru''s Academia.]


    [You aren''t passionate about alchemy, but going to Sumeru would provide ess to more knowledge and materials. However, disaster strikes when an idental explosion reveals your secret experiments. Although you narrowly avoid criminal charges, you are expelled, and your schrship is revoked.]


    [Age 16: You return to your hometown. Your father is furious about your expulsion but ultimately epts it. With your current knowledge, you are more than capable of taking over his role in the mines.]


    [On the other hand, you reunite with Virginia, who has grown into a beautiful young woman. Despite the years apart, her affection for you hasn''t faded.]


    [Age 17: Naturally, you two fall back into your old habits, spending much of your time together. With the schrship money you had saved, you secretly build a small alchemicalb in a nearby cave to continue your research.]


    [You are determined to prove yourself to Mondstadt''s alchemists by perfecting your explosives. Virginia is the only one who knows about your secretb, and she often stays with you, keeping youpany during your experiments.]


    [You create various alchemical trinkets to entertain Virginia, and you both spend hours chatting andughing.]


    [However, your research is fraught with difficulties. Your makeshiftb cannot support your grand ideas, and the cost of rare materials is your biggest obstacle.]


    [Age 18: One day, Virginia sneaks some of her father''s wine from the cer. You use beakers as makeshift sses, and the two of you drink like adults. Alcohol bes the catalyst for deepening your bond, and on that moonless night, you and Virginia experience something more intoxicating than the wine itself.]


    [As you watch Virginia curled up on the wooden bed like a small cat, doubts creep into your mind. Instead of wasting your time and energy on these experiments, perhaps it would be better to abandon everything and live a simple life with Virginia.]


    [You resolve to end your research. But as you stare at the leftover materials and the untested forms, you decide to give it onest try.]


    [Perhaps due to having no reservations anymore, this final experiment yields your most sessful result yet¡ªa micro-bomb the size of a fist, capable of leveling half the vige.]


    [Just as you''re celebrating, the remaining materials in theb begin to react violently. Without thinking, you grab the still-sleeping Virginia and attempt to flee the cave.]


    [But as soon as you exit, the cave explodes. The st knocks you both to the ground. Yourst memory before losing consciousness is holding Virginia tightly in your arms.]


    [You wake up sometimeter, groggy from pain. The explosion didn''t kill you, but it did take one of your arms.]


    [Before you can face your father''s wrath, you rush to find Virginia. Thankfully, she''s alive and unharmed. When you arrive at her house, she''s sitting in the garden. You call her name, but she doesn''t turn her head.]


    [Your voice, however, draws the attention of her father. For the first time, you see this gentle man''s face contort with rage as he punches you. That''s when you learn that Virginia lost her hearing in the explosion.]


    [You ept her father''s beating withoutint, consumed with guilt. Your father arrives just in time and suggests cutting off your ears as punishment.]


    [Surprisingly, Virginia''s father stops him, having calmed down somewhat. He admits that he and Virginia have already discussed a "solution." If you agree to marry her, he won''t press charges.]


    [Despite her beauty, Virginia''s hearing loss would make it hard for her father to find a suitable match.]


    [You immediately agree, vowing to spend the rest of your life making amends for your mistake.]


    [As for your groundbreaking invention and your reckless dreams, you decide to seal them away forever. You swear never to touch anything that could harm those you love.]


    [Age 19: In the blink of an eye, half a year has passed since your marriage to Virginia. Despite you having lost an arm and her being deaf, these challenges haven''t diminished your happiness together.]


    [However, due to your hatred and fear of explosives, you quit your job as a demolition worker. Instead, you began using alchemy to create small medicines and trinkets to sell in Mondstadt.]


    [Your alchemical products are of decent quality. Though you''re not getting rich, they provide enough to livefortably. Virginia is a gentle and caring wife, neverining about her hearing loss, and you''ve begun learning signnguage for her sake.]


    [Age 20: This year brings two blessings to your family. First, using your savings, you build a new home by the waterfall outside the vige. This was Virginia''s idea; because of her hearing loss, she often felt self-conscious about people talking behind her back, so she wanted to live somewhere more secluded.]


    [The second piece of good news is the birth of your child, a healthy, beautiful girl. Virginia suggests naming her "Klee," a name from ancient Mondstadt meaning "four-leaf clover," symbolizing luck. She hopes her daughter will be spared from the misfortunes you both endured.]


    Wait... Klee? Isn''t Klee''s mother supposed to be the elven adventurer Alice? Could this just be a coincidence?


    [Age 21: Klee''s arrival brings a great deal of joy to your family, motivating you to work even harder. Though your alchemical skills are good, having only one arm significantly hampers your productivity, forcing you to work twice as hard to make ends meet.]


    [Thankfully, your father still provides you with some financial help, but his age is catching up with him. You often urge him to rest more, but the stubborn old man works as hard as the younger miners.]


    [You know he wants to earn extra money for your family. Whenever he sees his granddaughter, the hard wrinkles on his face soften into a smile.]


    [Age 22: Tragedy strikes when your father loses his life in a mining ident. The mine''s foreman, an old acquaintance of your father, gives you a generouspensation and offers you the position of demolition worker, with a decent wage.]


    [Despite your hatred of explosives, you ept the job to support your family.]


    [Even though years have passed since youst handled explosives, your skills haven''t dulled. In fact, you realize you still enjoy the process of creating explosions¡ªespecially the satisfaction you feel when your work goes off perfectly.]


    [Age 23: You excel at your job, even surpassing your father. You dream of earning enough money to move your family to the city and give them a better life.]


    [Age 24: A strange woman named "Alice" arrives in your vige. She introduces herself as an adventurer. You''ve never seen such a beautiful woman, but of course, your love for your wife is unwavering, and you have no inappropriate thoughts.]


    [Alice takes an interest in your vige and approaches the vige chief with wild ideas, like capturing Hilichurls asbor or using Hydro Slimes for irrigation.]


    [She even visits your home, where you''re surprised to find her fluency in signnguage is better than yours. She easily converses with Virginia and takes a liking to your daughter, Klee. Alice mentions that she, too, has a newborn daughter who is being raised in Mondstadt by the Knights of Favonius.]


    [One night, after finishing your work, you encounter an unprecedented rainstorm on your way home. Upon reaching the vige, you find Alice helping evacuate vigers due to a massive mudslide triggered by the rain.]


    [You immediately rush to save your wife and daughter. Thankfully, your house is far from the vige, so it should be safe from the mudslide.]


    [But just as you approach your home, only a few hundred meters away, the mudslide finally crashes down, roaring toward the vige.]


    [At that moment, you witness something unbelievable¡ªAlice hovering in mid-air, mes dancing in her hands, illuminating the night as if it were day.]


    [She fires a series of explosive fireballs at the mountainside, triggering a massive explosion. The st is the most incredible explosion you''ve ever seen, far surpassing anything you''ve ever created.]


    [However, the explosion redirects the mudslide¡ªnow it''s barreling straight toward your home.]


    [No sound, not the storm, the explosions, the rumbling mudslide, or even Klee''s crying, can wake Virginia, who sleeps soundly in your home. You dash toward them in a frenzy, desperate to save yourst remaining loved ones, but the relentless mudslide swallows them, along with you.]


    [Talent "Try Again" activates.]


    [Miraculously, you survive, but your wife and daughter are gone, buried by the mudslide. You hide in the shadows, watching Alice and the vigers recover their bodies from the wreckage.]


    [They shouldn''t have died. The one responsible for all of this is Alice! While you understand she did it to protect the vigers, your overwhelming grief and hatred consume you.]


    [You vow revenge. However, you know you''re no match for Alice. Her power far exceeds anything you couldprehend. But soon, a more "cruel" n forms in your mind.]


    [Alice mentioned that she has a newborn daughter. Your n is to kidnap her child and make Alice feel the same pain of losing a loved one.]


    [No one finds your "body," but everyone believes you''re dead. After all, how could a one-armed man have survived such a catastrophic disaster?]


    [You hide in the shadows, watching your family''s funeral. In that moment, all your dreams of a happy future are shattered by the woman named Alice.]


    [At night, after everyone has left, you stand alone before the graves of your wife and daughter, cing a four-leaf clover on their tombstones. Then, you turn and walk into the darkness.]


    [Age 25: After the tragic events, you went into hiding in Mondstadt for a while. Although your family was gone, you still had a sizable amount of savings, enough tost you for quite some time.]


    [During this period, you gathered a great deal of information, including about Alice''s daughter, who was less than a year old and had been left in the care of the Knights of Favonius while Alice herself embarked on yet another journey.]


    [To be honest, you started to doubt whether Alice truly cared about her daughter. If she didn''t, your n for revenge would be meaningless. Nevertheless, you decided to proceed¡ªrevenge had be the only thing keeping you alive.]


    [Your n wasn''t just to kill Alice''s daughter. That would be too simple. No, you intended to abduct her, raise her yourself, and teach her from a young age that Alice was her mother''s killer.]


    [Once she grew up, you''d ensure she would seek vengeance on Alice. Whether Alice or her daughter perished in the end, your revenge would beplete either way.]


    [Of course, this n was no easy task. Aside from abducting Alice''s daughter from the heavily guarded Knights of Favonius, there was another,rger problem¡ªhow to conceal her identity.]


    [The traits of the elf race are far too distinctive. With Alice''s vastwork and connections within the Knights, finding an elven baby wouldn''t be difficult.]


    [Fortunately, while studying alchemy, you had stumbled upon a form for a potion that could temporarily suppress the elven bloodline, making the child appear human for a certain period.]


    [You didn''t have time to wait any longer. With each day Alice''s daughter grew older, the likelihood of your n''s sess dwindled.]


    [After preparing everything, you made one final decision¡ªyou destroyed your own face. Although Alice believed you had died in the mudslide, she still remembered your face.]


    [Using alchemicalpounds, you burned your throat and half of your face. The physical pain meant nothing; the psychological torment had long since numbed you. With this "new appearance," you wandered through the vige, confirming that not even the vigers could recognize you before you began the first phase of your n.]


    [You had already memorized the patrol schedule of the Knights of Favonius. On a stormy night, under the cover of thunder and lightning, you used a specially prepared sedative to knock out the freshly rotated guard before sneaking into the Knights'' headquarters.]


    [It didn''t take long to locate the room where Alice''s daughter was being kept, thanks to the cute namete Alice had designed for her child''s door¡ªan ironic aid in your mission.]


    [As expected, the door was protected by some sort of magical seal, allowing only certain individuals to open it.]


    [But you had no intention of using the door.]


    [With your extensive experience in alchemy, you had crafted micro-explosives that could blow a hole in the wall without harming the room inside.]


    [You timed the explosion with the next lightning strike. As the deafening thunderp echoed through the air, you detonated the charge.]


    [Strangely, as you carried out this criminal act, you felt unnervingly calm, as if this operation had been rehearsed in your mind thousands of times.]


    [You entered the nursery and finally saw your target¡ªAlice''s daughter, lying peacefully in her cradle. Herrge crimson eyes and pointed ears confirmed her elven heritage.]


    [What puzzled you was how, despite the raging storm outside and the explosion that had just gone off, the little one seemedpletely unafraid.]


    ----


    Author''s Note: Well we did not reach the required ps ?? So no extra Chapters for you today!

 Chapter 97: Villain Simulator, Ch 96

    <h4>Chapter 97: Viin Simtor, Ch 96</h4>


    [Even when she saw your terrifying face, she giggled and reached out her tiny hands towards you. Holding her in your arms, your eyes couldn''t help but grow a bit misty.]


    [You thought of your own daughter, Klee. When she was just born, she was just as adorable as the baby in your arms. But now, she and her mother lie buried forever in the cold, dark earth.]


    [By now, you could hear the urgent footsteps outside and the panicked voices of the knights, exactly as you anticipated. If a one-armed man could so easily infiltrate the Knights of Favonius, abduct a baby, and then escape without resistance, the Knights would have shut down a long time ago.]


    [It was already difficult for you to escape alone, let alone with an infant. So, from the very beginning, you never intended to flee.]


    [You took out the remote control you had prepared in advance. With the press of a button, half of the Knights of Favonius were instantly engulfed in a series of explosions. When you infiltrated earlier, you had ced controble explosives at various locations precisely to create chaos.]


    [Amidst the confusion, you sted open a section of the wall and vanished into the stormy night with Alice''s daughter. The heavy rain would wash away any traces you left behind. Carrying the infant, you returned to your residence.]


    [The first thing you did upon returning was to feed the baby a specially prepared potion. Just as expected, under the effects of the medicine, the baby''s pointed ears gradually took on a human shape, and her crimson eyes slowly faded into a normal ck.]


    [You finally let out a sigh of relief. Of course, you knew in your heart that this was merely the first step in your n for revenge. It wasn''t the simplest step, but it certainly wasn''t the hardest.]


    [You did not choose to flee Mondstadt; sometimes, the most dangerous ce is the safest. From this day on, you assumed a new identity: that of a single father raising a daughter alone.]


    [As for Alice''s daughter, perhaps in memory of your deceased child, you named her¡ªKlee.]


    Reading this part, Lucas finally understood.


    So that''s the true origin of "Klee."


    [Raising a baby wasn''t difficult for you; after all, you had done it once before. However, Klee seemed far more energetic than an ordinary infant. It took quite a bit of effort to finally get her to sleep peacefully.]


    [As you gazed at her sweet, smiling face, your emotions grewplicated. You hated Alice for what she did, for causing the death of your family, but what crime did this childmit?]


    [Nevertheless, the urge for revenge quickly erased thest bit ofpassion in your heart. Gently stroking Klee''s cheek, a cold smile spread across your face as you murmured, "Sleep tight, little one. When you wake next, you''ll already be my tool for revenge."]


    [Just as you expected, the explosion at the Knights of Favonius made headlines across Mondstadt the next day. The incident resulted in three deaths and twenty-three injuries. Because it urred in the early morning when few knights were present, and due to the heavy rain that quickly extinguished the fires caused by the sts, the damage was contained.]


    [You no longer feel any guilt for those victims. You know that while you were the demon who harmed them, it was Alice who created that demon.]


    [As for Alice''s daughter, now known as "Klee," her disappearance became an unsolved mystery. Some spected she perished in the explosion, as her nursery waspletely obliterated. Such a tiny and fragile baby might have been blown to pieces, leaving no remains behind.]


    [It is said that upon hearing the news, Alice immediately returned to Mondstadt. You were tempted to secretly observe her, curious about the expression she would wear upon learning her daughter''s fate.]


    [However, you restrained yourself¡ªyou had to. There could be no mistakes in your n for revenge.]


    [Alice insisted her daughter was still alive and even demanded the Knights of Favonius search every infant in Mondstadt.]


    [However, this request was denied by Grand Master Varka. Mondstadt is a city of freedom, and they could not infringe on the rights of its citizens for the sake of one individual. Nevertheless, he promised that any information about her daughter would be thoroughly investigated.]


    [Of course, everyone knew this was merely a gesture tofort Alice; the likelihood of the infant surviving was practically nil.]


    [Instead of searching for the baby, Grand Master Varka was more focused on finding the culprit behind the explosion. It was an unambiguous act of provocation against the Knights of Favonius, and if the perpetrator remained unknown, the entire city would be plunged into fear.]


    [As a neer to Mondstadt with a baby, you naturally fell under suspicion. However, your daughter was not an "elf," and how could a one-armed man be responsible for orchestrating such a terrifying explosion? You were quickly cleared of any suspicion.]


    [Ultimately, the explosion became another unsolved case, and Alice soon set off again, this time not for an adventure but to travel across Teyvat in search of her daughter.]


    [This was just as you had nned. Perhaps Alice never expected that the one who had taken her daughter would be living right under her nose, residing in Mondstadt itself.]


    [Age 26: Klee''s development has been going smoothly. She has no memory of her life before being taken, and you have fully assumed the role of her father, weaving a detailed backstory for your broken family.]


    [You im to have been residents of a distant vige, disced by a great fire that also caused the burn scars on your face. You tell Klee that her mother died in that fire.]


    [When Klee was old enough to understand, you began to nt the seeds of a past that never existed: that the one who set the fire and killed her mother was an evil witch.]


    [Being a single father isn''t easy, especially when raising a child requires a lot of money. Not to mention the costs of acquiring ingredients for the potions needed to suppress Klee''s elven bloodline.]


    [You had no intention of depleting your savings and decided to rely on your skills to make a living.]


    [At this time in Mondstadt, "alchemy" had begun to influence the lives of its residents. From materials for adventurers to refine their equipment, to useful tools and potions, demand for alchemical products was on the rise.]


    [Using your remaining savings, you opened a small alchemy shop in a corner of the city, selling alchemical products and taking on custom orders.]


    [Your alchemy skills were exceptional, and business thrived. The only drawback was your one-armed state. Even though your theoretical knowledge and practical skills were unparalleled, your efficiency was greatly hindered.]


    [So, you decided to hire an assistant. However, this proved to be no easy task. You interviewed many, but none met your standards.]


    [Indeed, your criteria were stringent. First, the assistant needed to have sufficient talent and passion for alchemy. You had no desire to waste time teaching someone ipetent.]


    [Second, they needed to be simple-minded. You couldn''t risk anyone suspecting your and Klee''s identities.]


    [Third, they had to be diligent¡ªnoziness would be tolerated.]


    [And fourth, the most practical requirement: their sry expectations needed to be low. After all, gaining knowledge and hands-on experience from you was already generouspensation.]


    [Just when you were considering lowering your standards, a timid, green-haired beast-eared girl with sses walked into your shop.]


    [You were no stranger to her; she had often visited your shop and seemed to genuinely appreciate your products. You initially thought she was there to buy something again, but to your surprise, she shyly asked if she could apply for the assistant position.]


    [You weren''t particrly interested in the young girl but agreed to conduct a brief interview.]


    [To your astonishment, she answered every alchemical question with ease. Her personality also seemed simple and even somewhat reclusive, which was ideal; such people were good at keeping secrets.]


    [What intrigued you most was her sry request¡ªshe was willing to work for free. All she wanted was for you to teach her some knowledge during her time as your assistant and, within reason, to assist her in her own research.]


    [Thus, you officially signed an internship contract with the peculiar girl named "Sucrose."]


    Well, well¡ªit turned out to be Sucrose.


    Sorry, Albedo.


    Not only did I take your little sister, but I''ve also snatched your assistant!


    [To your delight, Sucrose indeed possessed a remarkable talent for alchemy. As a student, she was both intelligent and extremely patient.]


    [You might be a viin who abandoned all principles for the sake of revenge, but that didn''t stop you from being a dedicated teacher to your student.]


    [Of course, there was also an element of self-interest in this. You could see that Sucrose''s potential was no less than your own, and she was delving into a field of alchemy¡ªbiological alchemy¡ªthat you had scarcely explored.]


    [You believed that one day, her achievements would be at your disposal!]


    [Age 27: You celebrated Klee''s birthday. Naturally, you didn''t know her actual birth date, so you used your own daughter''s birthday as Klee''s.]


    [The little one is already three years old¡ªsmart and adorable. You often see your own daughter in her, but deep down, you know she is the daughter of your enemy. Yet, to Klee, you are her father, the only family she has in this world.]


    [Every month, you administer a potion to suppress her elf bloodline, lying to her that she has a congenital illness and needs to take the medicine regrly.]


    [On the other hand, with Sucrose''s help, your alchemy shop has be quite sessful. Your initial decision proved correct¡ªSucrose is not only hardworking and eager to learn, but also very innocent, showing little interest in anything outside of alchemy.]


    [She never asked about your past or your daughter; she simply focused all her energy on learning and working.]


    [Even though Sucrose insisted on not needing a sry, you still paid her a fair wage¡ªyou didn''t want to lose such a perfect assistant.]


    [Sometimes, when she overworked herself, you even insisted that she take a break. However, not even halfway through her vacation, she would often return to the shop, unable to stay away. For her, a break without alchemy was a punishment.]


    [Age 28: Alice returns to Mondstadt every year. Although she continues her search for her daughter, she knows deep down that it''s only a way to console herself. You secretly observed her once and noticed the absence of her usual smile.]


    [Her sorrowful expression brought a rare smile to your face, but it still wasn''t enough. You eagerly awaited the day when your revenge would finallye to fruition.]


    [In the blink of an eye, Klee turned four. Although her elf bloodline was suppressed, her talent and wit were impossible to conceal. To avoid exposing her identity, you couldn''t allow her to attend school like an ordinary child.]


    [You devised a "Revenge Training Program" for Klee. From an early age, you taught her how to concoct and use explosives, telling her that everything she was learning was to one day avenge her mother.]


    [As for Sucrose, she remained the same¡ªdevoted to learning what you taught and continuing her research in biological alchemy.]


    [However, you noticed she had a peculiar hobby: collecting bones.]


    [And these weren''t finely crafted bone artifacts; they were fresh, unprocessed bones, still bloody and fleshy.]


    [The bones came from the meat market, hunters, or even adventurers from the Adventurers'' Guild. She once issued amission requesting adventurers to collect monster bones for her.]


    [Whether from animals or monsters, all sorts of bones were within her collection scope. Once, she even acquired aplete Hilichurl leg bone.]


    [If not for the Mondstadt Alchemists'' Guild''s strict prohibition against using human materials in biological alchemy, you might have suspected Sucrose would attempt to get a skeleton from the Treasure Hoarders.]


    [You couldn''t tell if this was a personal interest or purely for research, but you didn''t interfere. In fact, you asionally helped her find interesting bones.]


    [When you gifted her the skull of a Mora Weasel, the usually shy Sucrose was so thrilled she gave you a hug.]


    [Age 29: Sucrose''s research in the field of "biological alchemy" advanced further. Truthfully, you no longer had much to teach her, but for some reason, she remained at your shop.]


    [Perhaps, for her, the peace of the alchemyb and the understanding presence of a teacher and colleague were more valuable than anything else.]


    [Possibly due to the fact that yourte wife was deaf, you had always been a man of few words. In this, you and Sucrose shared a simrity, and over time, you developed an unspoken rapport.]


    [You noticed she had started to change¡ªasionally asking about you. Though your heart had long been closed off, you still yearned for someone to confide in.]


    [Sucrose proved to be a great listener. You told her about your past with Virginia: your childhood friendship, your memories in the humbleb, and the time you first shared a forbidden moment after drinking an old bottle of wine.]


    [During one of these casual conversations, without thinking, you mentioned to Sucrose, "You remind me of Virginia when you stay silent all day."]


    [Sucrose''s cheeks immediately flushed red. Realizing that your words might have been inappropriate, you worried that it could be perceived as harassment and feared that Sucrose might resign.]


    [To your surprise,ter that evening, Sucrose returned to the shop, panting as if she had run the whole way. She even brought a bottle of Dandelion Wine, nervously exining that she was happy to bepared to Virginia. She hoped to help you recall more memories of yourte wife, and that was why she wanted to drink with you.]


    [Sucrose''s kindness and warmth caused a rare feeling of warmth in your cold heart. You epted her suggestion, figuring that since Dandelion Wine had a low alcohol content, it wouldn''t hurt to ept her good intentions.]


    [It was the first time since the tragedy that you had shared a drink with someone. You had tried many times before to numb your pain with alcohol, but it never worked.]


    [Perhaps due to the alcohol, you and Sucrose spoke more than usual. As the conversation flowed, you found yourselves drawing closer and closer.]


    [Oddly, your consciousness began to blur.]


    [Switching to immersive mode]


    "Ugh..."


    Lucas felt a headache, simr to the sensation of a hangover.


    When he regained some awareness, he was surprised to find himself in the alchemyb of the shop.


    There were twobs in the shop: one upstairs for regr work and another in the basement, known only to him and Sucrose, for conducting more advanced research.


    Lucas attempted to stand but was shocked to discover that his arm and legs were numb.


    "Don''t worry. It''s just a neurotoxin I developed," came a soft voice as sses glinted in the darkness. Sucrose stepped into the light, smiling gently. "By morning, the effects will wear off, and you''ll forget everything that happened."


    "Sucrose..." Lucas felt a surge of unease as he spoke. "What are you trying to do?"


    "Don''t worry, boss. I won''t hurt you," Sucrose crouched down beside him, her eyes behind her sses soft and gentle. "I just want to help you... I''ve discovered a way to regenerate your lost arm."


    "That''s impossible..." Lucas shook his head, his voice tinged with disbelief. "Even alchemy can''t achieve something like that."


    "But isn''t alchemy supposed to be the science of creating miracles?" Sucrose''s eyes glowed with a bright intensity. "I''ve been researching ''biological alchemy,'' and I''ve managed to create a graftable arm. However, to prevent rejection, I need one final ''material.''"


    "W-What material?" Lucas seemed to have a realization.


    "That would be... your gic material," Sucrose blushed, a rosy hue spreading across her cheeks.


    Absolutely not!


    "Sucrose, calm down," Lucas pleaded quickly. "Setting aside whether this experiment will seed, if it''s just gic material you need, I... I can do it myself."


    To be honest, Lucas had always found it strange in fantasy martial arts novels. Why is it that even the protagonists who are immune to all poisons somehow fall victim to aphrodisiacs? And not only that, but they always require a woman''s help to ''cure'' it.


    What, don''t they have hands?


    The skills passed down by our ancestors¡ªaren''t they quicker and more efficient than relying on a woman?


    "It''s not possible," Sucrose adjusted her sses, her expression remaining calm. "Logically speaking, with only one hand, it''s impossible to simultaneously produce gic material and collect it in a container. If it''s not collected immediately, it will be contaminated."


    Is that logical?


    That''s very logical!


    Lucas realized he had overlooked an important detail: the simtor version of himself, due to the earlier explosion, only had one arm.


    If he had two arms, he could simply use the other hand to hold the container nearby.


    Collecting with only one hand was about as challenging as Yang Guo from The Return of the Condor Heroes trying to draw a bow and hunt with just one arm.


    "Sucrose, this isn''t a joke. Are you really... nning to do this?"


    Lucas wanted to resist, but his body, paralyzed by Sucrose''s neurotoxin, waspletely immobile. However, aside from his arms and legs, the rest of his body remained fully sensitive.


    "Boss, you must miss your wife, don''t you?" Sucrose gently cupped Lucas''s face, her gaze filled with tender affection. "I''ve seen everything you''ve gone through over these years. No one understands you better than I do. Let me repay you... in this way."


    ----


    Author''s Note: well...

 Chapter 98: Villain Simulator, Ch 97

    <h4>Chapter 98: Viin Simtor, Ch 97</h4>


    Sucrose was a simple and pure-hearted girl; aside from her research in alchemy, she had little interest in anything else.


    And Lucas was her guide on the path of alchemy. Over the years, her respect and admiration for him had slowly evolved into moreplex emotions, simmering silently beneath the surface.


    Of course, Sucrose dared to be so bold this time because she hadced the dandelion wine with a potion called "Forget-Me Powder," whichpletely erased the user''s memories for the next twelve hours.


    However, what Sucrose didn''t know was that due to his long history of using his own body for alchemical experiments, Lucas had developed a resistance to most alchemical drugs. For him, the Forget-Me Powder only erased six hours of memory.


    Sucrose had been studying biological alchemy for years, which naturally required frequent observation of living organisms. As a result, she had acquired some knowledge in that area.


    Though not entirely proficient, the process was ultimately sessful.


    When a person loses their sight, their hearing bes more sensitive. In Lucas''s case, with his limbs numb, the sensitivity in the rest of his body was heightened.


    Even though Sucrose''s "collection technique" was not particrly professional, she handled the task skillfully and didn''t waver for a moment.


    Perhaps worried about insufficient materials, after allowing Lucas to rest for a while, Sucrose began a second round of collection.


    Since it was the second attempt, the pace was slower, but Sucrose showed great patience. Despite the fine sheen of sweat on her forehead, she didn''t stop.


    Luckily, although the second collection yielded less than the first, it wasn''t without results.


    Sucrose considered a third round, but after seeing Lucas tired, she reluctantly decided to stop.


    "Please rest well, boss," Sucrose said, carefully storing the DNA she had collected, her voice tinged with exhaustion. "I won''t waste your efforts."


    Watching Sucrose leave, Lucas felt conflicted.


    This girl really thought he would forget everything by the next day.


    [Switching to text mode]


    [The next day, when you wake up, the effects of the neurotoxin have indeed worn off, but you haven''t forgotten the events of the previous night.]


    [When you return to the shop, Sucrose has already been there for a while, brewing potions. Upon seeing you, her face reddens slightly, though she doesn''t reveal the truth. She merely says that you passed out after drinking too much, and she moved you to theb to rest.]


    [Faced with Sucrose''s clumsy lie, you decide...]


    [1. Reveal the truth.]


    [2. Pretend not to know.]


    Uh...


    After a moment of hesitation, Lucas chose the second option.


    If he revealed the truth, given Sucrose''s shy nature, she would likely feel so embarrassed that she would resign. And right now, he couldn''t afford to lose such a good assistant.


    Let''s just treat what happenedst night as a "beautiful mistake."


    [You pretend not to remember anything, telling Sucrose with a helpless smile that you have no memory of what happened. You notice a look of relief cross her face.]


    [However, with the DNA you provided, Sucrose''s experiment proceeds smoothly. A weekter, she brings a "limb" to you.]


    [It is an arm that looks almost exactly like a human arm. However, you quickly realize that it is an alchemical creation, synthesized using the tissues of various monsters. Its bones are from a Hilichurl Berserker.]


    [In the past, you always wondered why Sucrose was so keen on collecting monster bones. Now, you understand¡ªshe had been searching for suitable materials to create an arm for you all along.]


    [You had previously tried using alchemy topensate for your physical shorings, but the process proved unexpectedly arduous. The most challenging step was dealing with the severe rejection response between the inorganic alchemical arm and the human body.]


    [Moreover, attempting to connect human nerves to an alchemical arm is a delicate and precise operation. It''s nearly impossible to maintain a calm and precise state of mind for such a nerve connection while enduring extreme pain.]


    [However, the bio-alchemical arm Sucrose created perfectly resolved this first issue. Of course, you pretended not to know that the reason the arm did not reject your body was because it contained your gic material.]


    [As for the nerve connection surgery, you left that to Sucrose. The process was excruciating, as you had to verify the connections by feeling pain to ensure each nerve was linked correctly without anesthesia.]


    [But you endured it. After an entire afternoon, the surgery waspleted, and the towel soaked with your sweat was wrung out into a small bucket.]


    [Having been without an arm for so long, it was difficult to adjust to the sensation of having one again. However, as you watched the fingers tremble slightly, your heart surged with emotion.]


    [This arm would not only pave the way for your revenge but also allow you to appear in front of Alice without revealing your identity.]


    [In Alice''s perception, you were long dead, and even though you had concealed your identity with disfigurement, your missing arm was still too conspicuous. Someone as clever as Alice would easily notice the inconsistency.]


    [But now, even Alice would never believe that not only were you still alive, but you had also regained your arm.]


    [You expressed your gratitude to Sucrose, but she insisted that she should be the one thanking you. Without you, she would never have had the opportunity to make a breakthrough in biological alchemy. Of course, you both kept your own secrets.]


    [The person happiest about this development was Klee. Her reason for joy tugged at your heartstrings: "Now, Daddy can hold Klee in both arms, just like other kids get hugged by their dads. Yay!"]


    [You gave Klee a full embrace, knowing that it might be thest bit of gentleness you could offer her.]


    [Age 30: Time has passed, and you are now thirty. Perhaps due to the constant experiments you conducted on your body over the years, your physical functions show no signs of aging.]


    [To avoid scaring others with the burnt half of your face, you habitually wear a mask to cover it. The exposed half of your face, surprisingly, shows no signs of age.]


    [Sucrose was the one who noticed this. One day, while organizing inventory, she stumbled upon your wedding photo with yourte wife. She expressed her surprise, noting that you looked almost the same as in the photo, which had been taken at least over a decade ago.]


    [While you found this curious, you didn''t dwell on it. Perhaps alchemy had silently altered your body structure, or even caused serious side effects, but you had no way to turn back.]


    [One day, the Goth Grand Hotel was targeted in an explosion, resulting in one death and four serious injuries. The authorities had yet to find any clues regarding the perpetrator.]


    [The headline on the newspaper brought a faint smile to your lips. The one responsible was not you, but Klee.]


    [This marked the beginning of the second phase of your revenge n: shaping Klee into the perfect "criminal."]


    [At just six years old, Klee''s talent for explosives far surpassed your own. She could even independently create a bouncing bomb she called the "Jumpy Dumpty."]


    [You created a storybook called Brave Klee vs. the Demon King, where Klee became a tiny hero who had to pass through many challenges to ultimately defeat the final Demon King¡ªthe one who killed her mother.]


    [The so-called "challenges" were criminal ns you specifically tailored for Klee.]


    [Covered in soot, Klee returned to you with a triumphant grin. "Daddy! Brave Kleepleted her first mission! Am I... super amazing?"]


    ["Of course. Brave Klee has taken her first step to defeat the Demon King. She used her bomb to destroy one of the bandit hideouts under his control." You opened the first page of the storybook and marked it with a cross.]


    [The illustrations were drawn in a charming, storybook style: Klee used her bombs to blow up a bandit hideout. The bandits wereunched into the air with their pants on fire, running aroundically, full of childlike innocence.]


    [The reality, however, was that the people Klee blew up were beyond recognition, and the severely injured were covered in third-degree burns, destined to live the rest of their lives in suffering.]


    [Alice, are you seeing this? Your precious daughter is being shaped into a demon, step by step. You can hardly wait to see Alice''s reaction when she learns the truth.]


    [For now, Klee is an innocent, nk te, and you''ve just left the first stain upon it.]


    [Of course, this is only the beginning. That nk te will one day be filled with twisted depictions of crime.]


    [To teach Klee more skills, you allow her to visit the shop and help out often. Sucrose, for her part, is more than happy to assist in caring for Klee.]


    [However, Sucrose cannot fill the role of a mother. To Klee, she is more like a gentle, kind, yet quiet older sister.]


    [Age 31: Over the year, Klee carried out several more criminal operations.]


    [She set fire to the Mondstadt grain warehouses under the guise of the task "Burn the Demon King''s Army''s Provisions."]


    [She blew off the head of Barbatos''s statue,pleting the task "Defeat the Demon King''s Allies."]


    [The reason you went through such lengths wasn''t just to have Kleemit crimes but to cultivate her "nature."]


    [Rather than simply turning Klee into a viin, you aimed to make her instinctively believe that all her "bad deeds" were justified¡ªthat they were prerequisites for defeating the "Demon King."]


    [You nted the seeds of evil deep within Klee''s subconscious, patiently waiting for them to blossom.]


    [For Klee, the most exciting thing waspleting the "missions" in her storybook. Every time she opened a new Chapter, she was filled with exhration, as if she were one step closer to final victory.]


    [Of course, your n was top secret. You told Klee that all the actions of "Brave Klee" were ssified; if a third person ever learned about them, she would never be able to defeat the Demon King, and the storybook detailing her great adventures¡ªBrave Klee vs. the Demon King¡ªwould be destroyed.]


    [Klee took this very seriously, vowing that she would keep the secret no matter what.]


    [Age 32: Sucrose had now worked at your shop for six years, and you had watched her transform from a shy, young girl into a mature, intelligent woman.]


    [Though she remained as quiet as ever, she had be much moreposed, no longer blushing at every little thing.]


    [Some new customers even mistook Sucrose for your wife and Klee''s mother. Sucrose never confirmed these assumptions, but she never denied them either, always responding with a smile.]


    [You aren''t oblivious. Given the events of the past, it was clear to you that Sucrose had developed feelings for you. However, you couldn''t reciprocate those feelings.]


    [You understood that the end of your quest for revenge was destined to be tragic. Whether Alice or Klee survived, they would despise you once they learned the truth.]


    [Of course, you felt no fear. As long as you could fulfill your revenge, you would ept death calmly and reunite with your wife and daughter in another world.]


    [But Sucrose didn''t need to be part of your revenge; she didn''t deserve to sacrifice herself for your n.]


    [Age 33: Through your efforts with Klee, the nine-year-old had be the youngest criminal bomber in Mondstadt''s history. Naturally, no one knew her true age; no one could believe that the perpetrator behind these explosive incidents was a girl under ten.]


    [Nevertheless, Klee inevitably left behind some traces. Witnesses insisted that the criminal was a dwarf with severe antisocial tendencies.]


    [Klee became a frequent figure on the Knights of Favonius'' wanted list, with her bounty increasing year by year. She even earned the nickname¡ªthe "Evil Sun."]


    [Age 34: Six months ago, Grand Master Varka led an elite unit of the Knights of Favonius on another expedition, leaving Mondstadt temporarily under the leadership of Dandelion Knight Jean.]


    [Unlike the hearty and carefree Varka, Jean immediately began handling the umted cases upon assuming her temporary role, paying special attention to the "Evil Sun" and vowing to apprehend the culprit within three months.]


    [Faced with Jean''s challenge, you naturally wouldn''t back down. You nned a major heist as a gift for Klee''s tenth birthday.]


    [While Klee usually carried out these operations alone, your workload was not light. Before each mission, you conducted reconnaissance, gathered intelligence, and meticulously nned every step. During the operation, you monitored the situation and kept watch. Afterward, you handled the cleanup, eliminating evidence.]


    [In other words, if Klee were not a viin but a superhero like Batman, you would be her Alfred.]


    [You devised an explosive heist targeting the "Sword of the Wind''s Gift," a symbol of the Knights of Favonius. It was said that this sword had once belonged to the founder of the Knights, Vennessa. Stealing it would be a huge blow to the Knights'' reputation.]


    [The n progressed smoothly. After all, you had bombed the Knights of Favonius headquarters ten years ago; this time was no different.]


    [You even added a new page to the storybook, illustrating an adventure where Brave Klee infiltrates the Demon King''s fortress to steal the Demon Sword.]


    [It''s worth mentioning that you seemed to have a natural talent for drawing. For you, drawing wasn''t an art form but a mechanical process¡ªmerely replicating the world on paper.]


    [Like a human camera, this talent allowed you to document alchemical materials efficiently. You also created a detailed map of Mondstadt to n escape routes.]


    [Klee was just as enthusiastic about this operation. From the bombs packed in her backpack, it was clear she was eager for action.]


    [Just as you did ten years ago, you used an alchemical potion to put the guards to sleep. By now, Klee was an experienced criminal. She slipped into the Knights'' headquarters with far more agility than you did in your first attempt.]


    [After all, you were a novice back then, while Klee now had five years of criminal experience. Her intelligence and quick learning made her proficient at anything¡ªeven bing a criminal.]


    [You waited at the designated spot for Klee''s exit. But after hearing the explosion, there was no sign of her, and a sense of dread gripped you.]


    [You heard the sounds ofbat beyond the wall and realized that this mission might have been anticipated by the Knights. Without hesitation, you sted open the wall, ready to rescue her.]


    [No matter what, you couldn''t let Klee get hurt. She was the most crucial part of your revenge n; even if you had to die, you couldn''t afford for anything to happen to her!]


    [Inside the vault, Jean was battling Klee. It was more of a one-sided chase than a fight. Against Jean''s superb swordsmanship and her Vision, Klee stood no chance.]


    [Because Klee was disguised, and the rumor was that the culprit was a dwarf, Jean didn''t hold back.]


    [Klee, despite her experience, rarely encountered such danger. All the bombs she threw were effortlessly neutralized by Jean''s Wind Pressure Sword.]


    [Seeing that Klee was in danger, you grabbed the Sword of the Wind''s Gift from the pedestal and shed with Jean. Seeing you wielding the Knights'' sacred relic, Jean shouted in anger, "Put down the Sword! That sword is not for someone like you to wield!"]


    [Jean wasn''t just making empty threats. You could feel the sword rejecting you, but you gritted your teeth against the pain of wind des cutting into your arm and continued to fight.]


    [Though you weren''t a swordmaster, you had practiced swordsmanship for some time to facilitate your criminal activities. Your physical condition was also far superior to that of an average person, thanks to the prolonged use of various alchemical potions.]


    [The Sword of the Wind''s Gift resisted your body, causing sharp pain as if your arm was being torn apart. Fortunately, your arm was an alchemical construct, much tougher than a regr limb. If it had been your original arm, it might have been severed by the wind des already.]


    [With your brute strength and the advantage of wielding the Sword of the Wind''s Gift, you managed to fight Jean to a standstill. But you knew in your heart that if the battle dragged on and other Knights of Favonius arrived, both you and Klee would be doomed.]


    [So, you decided to go all out and use your trump card, which you had prepared long ago.]


    [Your most powerful weapon was, of course, explosives. But in such an intense battle, there was no opportunity to throw a bomb. Besides, using an explosive at such close range would mean mutual destruction for both you and Jean.]


    [You deliberately exposed a weakness, leaving your arm holding the Sword of the Wind''s Gift wide open. Jean, not one to miss such an opportunity, immediately swung her sword and severed your arm.]


    [With her focus on retrieving the Sword of the Wind''s Gift, Jean instinctively reached for the severed arm still gripping the weapon. But at that moment, you activated the mechanism you had prepared in advance.]


    ["Goodbye, Acting Grand Master Jean!" The severed arm began to emit a rapid beeping sound. Before Jean could react, the arm exploded, engulfing her in the st.]


    [Indeed, you had imnted a powerful miniature bomb inside the alchemical arm, precisely for such an emergency.]


    ["Daddy, you''re amazing!" Klee leapt into your arms, her face full of admiration. "Daddy''s bomb is even stronger than Klee''s!"]


    [You patted Klee''s head, preparing to flee with her immediately. However, just as you turned to leave, a sudden chill ran down your spine¡ªa sharp de pierced through your chest from behind.]


    [You hadn''t overestimated the power of your own creation; you had underestimated the resilience of a Vision wielder.]


    [Jean, though missing half an arm and covered in blood, had still mustered the strength to drive her sword through your chest.]


    ["You won''t escape!" Jean growled coldly, her face pale. "The Knights of Favonius, entrusted to me by Grand Master Varka¡ªI will protect them... no matter what!"]


    ----


    Author''s Note: To all those whoin about simtions, no, I''m not going to remove them because I like them. Simple as that.


    However, I will post really long Chapters if I feel it''s getting too stretched. ONLY if I feel like it. Thank you!

 Chapter 99: Villain Simulator, Ch 98

    <h4>Chapter 99: Viin Simtor, Ch 98</h4>


    [At that moment, other members of the Knights of Favonius surged in, surrounding you and Kleepletely. You felt a chill run through your body, and your breathing becamebored. You could clearly feel the de piercing your lung.]


    ["Run, I''ll hold them off..." you whispered to Klee with thest of your strength. "Remember, don''t forget our promise¡ªyou must defeat... the Demon King..."]


    [Even if you die, you cannot let your revenge n end here.]


    [You thought this mistake would cost you your life, but to your surprise, Klee''s ears suddenly grew pointed, and her eyes turned a deep, blood-red. A Vision, glowing with mes, appeared in front of her out of thin air.]


    ["You won''t... bully Daddy!" A powerful and oppressive force erupted from within Klee. You couldn''t tell whether it was from her newly awakened Vision or from her long-suppressed elf bloodline.]


    [Thest image you saw before losing consciousness was of a perfect explosion¡ªone just like the one Alice had used years ago to st the mountainside, tearing your family apart.]


    [When you regained a sliver of consciousness, you found yourself back in the secret alchemyb at your home. Through a haze, you saw Sucrose performing surgery on you, while Klee anxiously waited nearby.]


    [It took three days before you fully regained consciousness. To your surprise, not only were you still alive, but your wounds had already healed significantly.]


    [During those three days, Sucrose and Klee had remained by your side. When you finally awoke, Sucrose exined what had happened.]


    [After Klee awakened her Vision, she couldn''t control its power, resulting in a massive explosion. Seizing the opportunity created by the st, she managed to drag your nearly lifeless body back.]


    [Fortunately, Sucrose was in the shop at the time. Seeing you severely injured and Klee in fullbat gear, she seemed to understand what was happening. She didn''t report you to the authorities; instead, she used her biological alchemy techniques to pull you back from the brink of death.]


    [You were amazed at Sucrose''s incredible skill, as she managed to save you from such severe injuries. However, Sucrose exined with aplicated expression that this was actually her first time using her biological alchemy techniques for treating wounds. Your survival and rapid recovery were simply a stroke of luck.]


    [The joy of being alive did notst long, as you now faced a bigger problem. Sucrose had discovered your and Klee''s secret. Though she was quiet and reserved, she was not foolish.]


    [Knowing there was no point in hiding anything, you decided to tell Sucrose everything while Klee was still unconscious.]


    [You told her about how your wife and daughter had died at Alice''s hands, how you kidnapped Klee to aid in your revenge, and how, once it was all over, you intended to end your own life.]


    [Perhaps it was because you had kept this secret for so long that finally revealing it brought you an unexpected sense of relief.]


    [You gave Sucrose two options. First, you would provide her with arge sum of money so she could leave Mondstadt and forever keep your secret. Second, you would kill her¡ªdead people can never reveal secrets.]


    [Not killing Sucrose immediately was the greatest mercy you could offer. You assumed she would choose the first option, but instead, she gave you a third answer.]


    [Sucrose told you that she was willing to assist you in your revenge n. She pointed out that you and Klee would likely face simr dangers in the future, and she could ensure your safety.]


    [However, Sucrose also made a demand of her own: after the revenge wasplete, you could not take your own life. Instead, you had to take her and Klee, leave Mondstadt, and live a life far away.]


    [When you asked Sucrose why she would do such a thing¡ªwhy, at her young age, she would sacrifice so much for a viin like you¡ªshe replied, blushing, "Isn''t the reason obvious by now?" She continued, "I know that six years ago, on that night... you didn''t actually lose your memory, did you?"]


    [Sucrose''s answer took you by surprise. Faced with the third option she proposed, your choice is...]


    [1. Refuse]


    [2. ept]


    [3. Kill Sucrose]


    Killing Sucrose seems a bit too much!


    Lucas pondered for a moment. In the simtor, choices rted to "goodness" usually don''t end well.


    But this time, Sucrose was offering to join him in evil deeds. So, agreeing to her terms might actually work out. Besides, even if the oue is just surviving by scraping by, it''s better thanmitting suicide after getting revenge.


    "I ept!"


    [You agree to Sucrose''s proposal. When you nod, Sucrose slowly adjusts her sses, the lenses reflecting a sh of light reminiscent of Detective Conan.]


    ["Now that you''ve allowed me to join, I want to be involved in all future actions," Sucrose deres, exuding an aura of reliability you''ve never seen before. "And no matter what, both you and Klee must prioritize your own safety during operations."]


    [You remind Sucrose once again that joining you means bing your aplice¡ªnot justmitting crimes, but absolutely harming others. For someone as kind-hearted as Sucrose, this might be the hardest barrier to ovee.]


    [However, Sucrose calmly replies, saying that when you peel away the skin, all humans are just lumps of flesh. To her, most humans are simply organic beings¡ªexcept for you, you are different.]


    [You''re not sure what makes you different, but you''re surprised to discover that this is the real Sucrose. It''s no wonder that, despite her young age, she''s already excelling in the niche field of biological alchemy.]


    [In her eyes, whether it''s humans or other creatures, they''re just "objects"posed of bones, muscles, and organsbined in various ways.]


    [As you recover from your injuries, you learn more about the situation outside. The "Evil Sun" had been discovered by Acting Grand Master Jean while infiltrating the Knights of Favonius, resulting in a massive explosion during the conflict.]


    [This explosion was even more terrifying and destructive than the one from ten years ago, leaving fifty-seven injured and thirteen dead. Jean, as well as the Cavalry Captain Kaeya, the Outrider Amber, and the Guerri Captain E, all sustained injuries of varying severity. Jean herself lost an arm in the st.]


    [You know this incident will definitely have severe consequences, but Klee''s growth still fills you with a sense of satisfaction.]


    [The Pyro Vision appeared because Klee''s desire to protect you was so strong.]


    [However, the only benefit Klee sees from acquiring the Vision is that it allows her to create even more powerful bombs with ease.]


    [This dangerous encounter didn''t scare her; instead, it made her even more determined to be stronger so she could protect her father.]


    [The only troublesome issue is that, possibly due to the forced activation of her elf bloodline, the potions you previously made can no longer fully suppress her bloodline. What used tost a month now onlysts a week, and if Klee bes emotionally agitated, the effects might wear off prematurely.]


    [As a result, you have to increase the frequency of her doses to prevent any idents.]


    [The first thing Sucrose did after treating your wounds was to prepare a new alchemical arm for you. By now, it was a routine task for her.]


    [Of course, she still needed your DNA, since thest sample was collected years ago and could no longer be used.]


    [However, this time, Sucrose did not anesthetize you. She opted for a more standard method, and just when you felt relieved that she didn''t perform two consecutive extractions likest time, she suddenly smiled and told you, "To enhance your body, I might need more gic material for research. The collection frequency will be about three to four times per week."]


    [You thought Sucrose was joking until you noticed that she had set up a bed in the secretb and began her schedule of forced gic collection¡ªMondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays on odd weeks; Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays on even weeks; and no rest on Sundays. It was then that you started to suspect¡ª]


    [Could this be Sucrose''s true motive for willingly bing your aplice?]


    [Nevertheless, the new arm Sucrose created exceeded your expectations. This time, she used a Geovishap''s bones as the arm''s skeleton and reinforced the skin with Dvalin''s scales.]


    [You were curious about how she managed to obtain such precious alchemical materials until she showed you the grant she received for publishing her alchemy research papers at the Sumeru Academia, which left you speechless.]


    [Of course, many of those papers contained your contributions. Unlike Sucrose, your strength in alchemy isn''t theoretical but practical.]


    [As you predicted, once Jean regained consciousness, she immediately ordered a thorough investigation throughout Mondstadt, focusing especially on single fathers with daughters and one-armed men.]


    [It seemed that although your identity hadn''t been exposed, Jean had still gathered some critical clues.]


    [Being a single father with a daughter made you a prime suspect. Fortunately, the arm you "grew" just in time, along with the reputation you had built up over the years, helped you quickly clear your name.]


    [After all, who could believe that the sweet and angelic Klee could be the same little demon who blows up everything in sight, leaving chaos in her wake?]


    [Age 35: Upon learning about the explosion at the Knights of Favonius, Alice immediately returned to Mondstadt. Perhaps the simrities between this incident and the explosion ten years ago, when her daughter was abducted, prompted her swift return.]


    [However, to your surprise, Alice didn''t take any action. Instead, she ced a long-overdue obituary notice in the most prominent section of the newspaper.]


    [In the notice, Alice finally acknowledged her daughter''s death and announced her intention to establish a school for underprivileged children and orphans, funded entirely by her, as a tribute to her deceased daughter.]


    [You don''t understand why Alice would do such a thing, but you heard some rumors. Some say Alice intends to choose an adoptive daughter through this method, hoping to fill the void left by her lost child.]


    [Honestly, you don''t quite believe the rumor. Alice is an elf of great strength and resilience, both physically and mentally. If she truly intended to find an adoptive daughter to rece Klee, wouldn''t that mean she hadpletely given up on finding her biological daughter and had admitted defeat?]


    [This development makes you uneasy, as your entire n for revenge hinges on Alice''s love for her daughter. If her affection for Klee transfers to someone else, the impact of your revenge would be greatly diminished.]


    [You are a calm person, but anything that could affect your revenge is uneptable.]


    [Sucrose, who has known you for years, notices your unease. You don''t hide it from her and share your concerns. After a moment of contemtion, Sucrose proposes a rather bold idea.]


    [She suggests sending Klee to attend Alice''s newly founded school to investigate whether the rumor of her seeking an adoptive daughter is true. If it''s false, then there''s no issue. But if it''s true... Klee might be Alice''s target of choice.]


    [You know that this suggestion is not only bold but also extremely risky. Even if you suppress Klee''s elf bloodline with potions, it''s uncertain whether it will be enough to fool Alice, who is incredibly perceptive.]


    [However, if Klee really does be Alice''s adoptive daughter, then when you eventually reveal the truth and Klee inevitably betrays her, wouldn''t Alice suffer twice the pain?]


    [The purpose of your life is to make Alice feel agony. Even though the risk is enormous, the thought of the potential satisfaction when you achieve your revenge makes it seem like a gamble worth taking.]


    [While waiting for Alice to establish her school, an unexpected guest arrives at your shop¡ªActing Grand Master Jean.]


    [After the explosion incident, Jean had been recovering from her injuries. When she appears before you again, you can hardly believe your eyes.]


    [Her body is marked by visible burn scars, and the once beautiful face now bears a noticeable burn mark. The most striking injury, however, is her missing left arm.]


    [Jean, who was once Mondstadt''s golden girl and the dream of countless young men, now looks like a soulless shell.]


    [Could she have found a clue ande for revenge? Standing behind the counter, you prepare a weapon hidden beneath it, but Jean politely asks if Sucrose is working in your shop.]


    [Though puzzled, you call for Sucrose. To your surprise, Jean''s purpose foring is to ask if Sucrose could use her biological alchemy skills to restore her right arm.]


    [Sucrose immediately refuses. Biological alchemy involving humans is strictly prohibited in Mondstadt, and besides, the person making the request is the Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius.]


    [Jean pleads once more, exining that as a knight sworn to protect Mondstadt, losing the arm that wields her sword is worse than death.]


    [You seize the opportunity, suggesting that you could try to restore her arm, but in exchange, you want a position in the Knights of Favonius, using their resources to study alchemy.]


    [It''s a reasonable request, and it isn''t difficult for Jean to fulfill. Though she is usually upright and impartial, she is not entirely inflexible, especially when the Knights are indeed nning to establish an alchemy division.]


    [The deal is struck, and Sucrose begins preparing for the surgery. Though she is already skilled in this type of procedure, she pretends it''s her first time to avoid raising suspicion.]


    [While waiting, Klee emerges from the back room. When she sees Jean, her face instantly shows fear, and she hides behind you.]


    [Jean''s expression turns mncholic, assuming that her frightening appearance has scared the adorable girl. But you know the real reason¡ªbecause of their previous battle, Jean now ranks in Klee''s top three "least wanted to see" people.]


    It seems that, whether in reality or the simtor, Jean is always Klee''s greatest threat.


    [The arm transnt surgery proceeds smoothly. Unlike you, however, Jean struggles with the movement of her new arm, which remains quite stiff. But to her, regaining an arm is already an incredible blessing.]


    [A smile finally appears on Jean''s face as she expresses her gratitude to you and Sucrose once again,pletely unaware that the "savior" before her is the very person who caused her to lose her arm.]


    [Jean keeps her promise, and you soon obtain a position in the Knights of Favonius¡ªChief Alchemist. Of course, you are currently the only member of the newly established alchemy division.]


    Reading this part, Lucas realizes something is off.


    In his memory, the person who should have held this position was Albedo.


    ording to the game''s lore, Albedo''s master, Rhinedottir, was a friend of Alice. Upon Alice''s rmendation, Albedo came to Mondstadt, joined the Knights of Favonius, and helped look after Klee, bing something like a foster brother to her.


    However, in this simtion, the significant character who yed a crucial role for both Alice and Klee had yet to appear.


    Not only that, but Sucrose, who should have been Albedo''s assistant, is now his. The foster sibling role with Klee is his instead, and even the title of "Chief Alchemist" has been given to him.


    Could it be that, in this simtor, he has taken Albedo''s ce?


    No, that''s impossible. In the lore, Albedo is a homunculus created through alchemy, whereas he himself is a real human. Their backgrounds and story settings arepletely different.


    The most obvious evidence is that he has a biological daughter. If he were an alchemical being, how could he have a child?


    Oh well, it''s best not to dwell on it too much. This is likely just a random plot generated by the simtor.


    [The most dangerous ce is often the safest. You''ve always believed in this principle, and infiltrating the Knights of Favonius means getting inside enemy lines, paving the way for future operations.]


    [Meanwhile, the school Alice established begins epting students. Wearing a suit, you take Klee, dressed in new clothes, to the school, appearing just like any "ordinary" father and daughter.]


    [Before heading out, you rehearsed with Klee numerous times to ensure your secret remains hidden. Of course, even without rehearsals, no one would ever doubt that you are a genuine father and daughter.]


    [To conceal Klee''s identity, you never allowed her to attend school before. For her, school is a novel and exciting ce, a ce where she can meet and y with children her age.]


    [The lively and cheerful Klee quickly befriends the other children. Watching her smile so sincerely, you can''t help but feel a bit conflicted.]


    [It''s true that you have always viewed Klee as a tool for your revenge. You raised her, taught her, and yed the role of a caring father¡ªall to ensure your n goes smoothly.]


    [However, you and Klee have been together for over a decade now. You''ve anxiously cared for her when she was sick, and you''ve covered her with nkets she kicked off in the middle of the night... You''re not sure if these acts of care are just part of the facade.]


    [Just as you''re lost in thought, you suddenly hear amotion. Klee, who wasughing and chatting with the other children moments ago, is now arguing with them for some reason.]


    [Switching to immersive mode]


    [Mission objective: Resolve this dispute. Mission reward: B-grade Talent]


    What unfolds before Lucas is a small, cozy, and harmonious-looking school.


    There are schools in Mondstadt, but they are usually private and not cheap.


    The Church of Favonius also hosts free educational activities regrly, but these only cover basic knowledge.


    For the freedom-loving people of Mondstadt, the idea of a ssroom feels like a constraint; as far as knowledge and learning are concerned, they believe that having just enough is sufficient.


    Klee is in the midst of a heated argument with a few children her age.


    "I''m not lying!" Klee insists passionately. "I once defeated the Demon King''s minions and blew them up into the sky!"


    "St-stop lying!" a chubby boy retorts in a muffled voice. "There''s no such thing as a Demon King. Besides, how could a little pipsqueak like you beat adults?"


    "Klee is not a pipsqueak! And I''m not lying!" Klee huffs angrily. "My dad gave me missions to defeat the Demon King!"


    Uh-oh...


    ---


    Author''s Note: Sorry forte Chapter.. was kinda sick and WN being a ass it is, did not upload ording to the schedule.

 Chapter 100: Villain Simulator, Ch 99

    <h4>Chapter 100: Viin Simtor, Ch 99</h4>


    Lucas felt a slight jolt in his heart. He had specifically instructed Klee not to mention the "Hero Klee vs. the Demon King" incident. Despite having framed those criminal acts as a mission to defeat the Demon King, discussing it further could expose the truth. No, he had to put an end to this conversation immediately.


    Just as Lucas was about to step forward, a figure suddenly blocked his path. When he saw who it was, his pupils widened.


    Pointed, elongated ears, skin as white as snow, long pale-golden hair, and those striking crimson eyes¡ª it was someone Lucas could never forget, even if she turned to ashes. Alice.


    Though Lucas had only met her a few times over a decade ago, her stunning beauty was unforgettable, even with just one nce. Perhaps due to her elven bloodline, she appeared almost unchanged from ten years ago, as if time had quietly slipped away only for him.


    "Let the children handle their own matters," Alice said with a faint smile. "Don''t worry. As the principal and teacher of this school, I won''t let them get hurt."


    Principal? Teacher?


    Lucas frowned slightly but suppressed his inner excitement, asking calmly, "If I''m not mistaken, you must be Miss Alice, correct?"


    Due to his disfigurement and reattached arm, Alice did not recognize the man before her as the "bystander" she had met over a decade ago.


    "That''s right, I am Alice. You must have seen the obituary I published, right?" she replied. "I used to be an adventurer, dreaming of exploring every corner of the world, but that childish dream cost me my most precious treasure."


    "I am deeply sorry about that," Lucas thought, sneering inwardly but feigning sympathy. "As a father, I can''t imagine the pain of losing a child. It must have been incredibly hard for you."


    His tone wasced with sarcasm, as if he were deliberately provoking her. <i>Come on, Alice! Let me see your face full of pain and sadness!</i>


    Though Lucas''s main revenge wasn''t focused on the present, he didn''t mind savoring some of Alice''s suffering as a bonus.


    "At first, it was really hard, but I''ve nowe out of the shadows," Alice said with a serene smile. "Instead of dwelling on past pain, people should learn to look forward."


    Lucas felt her words pierce his heart like a chisel. <i>How can you speak so righteously about moving forward? Does that make my efforts over the past decade meaningless?</i>


    It felt as if someone who had lost their entire family and spent years training for revenge was suddenly confronted by their enemy smiling and saying, "Haven''t you let it go? I did, a long time ago."


    Amotion broke out nearby, drawing Lucas and Alice''s attention. Klee''s argument with the other kids had already ended, and she had knocked them all down. Despite not using her Vision or bombs, her skills, honed through countless missions, far surpassed those of ordinary people. She resembled Hit-Girl from <i>Kick-Ass</i>.


    "Wh-what''s going on?" Alice, who had been calm moments ago, now looked surprised. She moved to intervene, but Lucas mirrored her stance, blocking her path with a smile.


    "Didn''t you say children should resolve their own problems?"


    Klee''s "violent behavior" didn''t spark further conflict. Instead, the kids who had doubted her moments earlier now looked at her with admiration, surrounding her in awe. Klee, with her natural charisma, reveled in the attention, crossing her arms and tilting her chin up with a smug expression.


    "Once Klee defeats the Demon King, you can all be drawn into Hero Klee vs. the Demon King... huh?"


    The little one''s words were cut off as Alice lifted her up, smiling. "Your name is Klee, right? You shouldn''t bully your ssmates..."


    Alice suddenly froze. Perhaps it was the bond of blood, or maybe Klee''s adorableness reminded her of her own daughter. In an instant, tears formed in Alice''s eyes.


    "Auntie, don''t cry..." Klee quickly wiped away Alice''s tears. "Daddy says the only ces you can cry are in the bathroom or in Daddy''s arms."


    Lucas felt a surge of panic. If Alice recognized Klee as her daughter now, his revenge n would crumble, and his identity could be exposed. Yet, he knew the more critical the moment, the more vital it was to remain calm. Any slip could draw Alice''s suspicion.


    "Miss Alice?" Lucas asked, masking his nerves with a calm expression. "Are you okay?"


    "Sorry, I lost myposure," Alice said, wiping her eyes. "Your daughter... she''s very cute."


    "She is indeed, but she tends to cause trouble," Lucas replied with a helpless smile. "No school has wanted to ept her, so I thought I''d try my luck here."


    "Please let her study here!" Alice insisted. "I''ll take good care of her!"


    <i>Got her,</i> Lucas thought with satisfaction. His guess was right¡ªKlee''s presence had reawakened Alice''s maternal instincts. <i>Do you want to forget your daughter? Then I''ll bring her back to you.</i>


    When Alice was in pain, Lucas felt joy; when she was happy, he felt pain. It was precisely why Lucas was willing to take such a risk by bringing Klee to her.


    "Klee," Lucas bent down, gently stroking his daughter''s head and smiling. "Do you like it here?"


    "I do!" Klee nodded enthusiastically. "There are interesting friends, lots of toys, and... a prettydy."


    Alice couldn''t help but smile slightly at Klee''s innocent excitement. Lucas noticed the doting look in Alice''s eyes. If the rumors are true, Klee would definitely be her first choice for an adopted daughter or goddaughter, he thought. But even if it wasn''t Alice, who could resist the adorable Klee? Lucas felt confident about that.


    [Text Mode Activated]


    [Klee''s enrollment went smoothly. You kept reminding her not to reveal her secret, just in case.]


    [You also prepared backup potions in case she couldn''t suppress her elf bloodline.]


    [Age 36: In what felt like no time, Klee had been at school for half a year.]


    [Despite a few unexpected incidents, they were all resolved with minimal trouble.]


    [Meanwhile, juggling your role as the chief alchemist of the Knights of Favonius, you left the shop temporarily in Sucrose''s care.]


    [This position gave you ess to privileged information, under the guise of borrowing books for ''research purposes.'']


    [By day, you y the role of a normal father, but at night, you and Klee transform into a criminal duo that the Knights of Favonius struggle to apprehend.]


    [Sucrose''s assistance has made your operations much smoother, her little inventions proving invaluable.]


    [She continues to improve the bio-alchemyponents in your body.]


    [Sucrose even developed a potion designed to enhance physical abilities by injecting micro-alchemy cells into the body. Unfortunately, it was a failed experiment. Sucrose tested the potion on a Hilichurl, which initially gained the strength of a Hilichurl King, but after three minutes, it went berserk and exploded.]


    [Captain Jean has adapted to her synthetic arm, but her swordsmanship hasn''t fully recovered. Determined, she developed a two-handed sword technique topensate for the impairment in her right hand. Every time she sees you, she expresses great respect. After all, beyond aiding her recovery, your alchemical skills have greatly contributed to the Knights of Favonius.]


    [Meanwhile, Klee''s rtionship with Alice has grown stronger. Klee often shares stories about her time with Alice, and you feel a pang of conflicting emotions. Although this is the oue you hoped for, you know it''s cruel to Klee, for eventually, she and Alice will have to face each other in battle.]


    [You wake up from nightmares where Klee, bloodied and despairing, looks at you and asks, "Daddy, why didn''t youe to save Klee?" For the first time, your resolve begins to waver. You can no longer pretend that your love for Klee is fake. You can''t sacrifice her for revenge.]


    [Seeking advice, you confide in Sucrose. She seems to have anticipated your dilemma. "If your goal is to make Alice suffer," she said, "there are ways to do so without harming Klee. Breaking someone''s heart is a far more effective revenge than taking a life."]


    [You ponder Sucrose''s words.]


    [The next day, Klee brings you a letter from Alice. Initially, you suspect Klee might have caused trouble at school, but the content of the letter leaves you at a loss. Alice has invited you to her home for dinner over the weekend and specifically requested that youe alone. The invitation raises suspicions. Could Alice have discovered the truth about Klee being her daughter and wants to confront me?]


    [You share the letter with Sucrose, who remains calm. "You should go," she assures you. "Nothing will go wrong."]


    [When you question her certainty, she gives you a knowing smile. "I''m a woman too, and only a woman knows what another woman is thinking."]


    [Sucrose believes this dinner could be a chance to refine your revenge n. She brings out a suit she prepared for you earlier and even ties your tie herself. Apart from the mask covering half your face, you look quite refined. In fact, with Sucrose''s bio-alchemy skills, removing the scars on your face wouldn''t be difficult, but you choose to keep them. They serve two purposes: one, to conceal your identity, and two, to remind you of your resolve for revenge.]


    [In her letter, Alice mentioned that today was your day off. She must have done her homework, you thought. If you declined her invitation, it would look suspicious. You decide to put your concerns aside. No matter how powerful Alice might be, she wouldn''t dare harm me in her own neighborhood, would she?]


    [Standing at Alice''s doorstep, you hesitate before finally pressing the doorbell.]


    [Entering Immersive Mode]


    The doorbell chimes softly, and Lucas hears hurried footsteps approaching. The door opens to reveal Alice in casual home attire¡ªan oversized off-shoulder sweater that subtly highlights her graceful elven charm. Contrary to themon image of slender and tall elves, Alice had no shortage of curves where it mattered.


    "Sorry to bother you," Lucas says, handing her a bouquet of flowers with a smile. "I epted the invitation in a hurry and didn''t have time to prepare a proper gift. I hope you don''t mind."


    "Thank you, I really like them," Alice replies, taking the flowers and inhaling their scent. Her expression is one of genuine pleasure. "Please,e in and make yourself at home."


    Make the enemy''s home your own? Lucas thinks, almost scoffing at the irony. How could she say that so casually?


    Despite his resentment towards Alice, he forces a smile and follows her into the room. The setting in the simtion was very simr to reality. Mondstadt may have overthrown the old nobility, but its city is still divided into wealthy andmoner districts. Alice''s home, located in a prime spot even within the wealthy district, speaks to her financialfort.


    The decor is tasteful and expensive¡ªclearly, money is no issue for her. Someone who can whimsically start a school surely isn''t short on cash.


    With his instinct for details honed by scouting locations for Klee''s missions, Lucas scans the room. Under the sofa, he notices empty beer cans hastily stashed away, and a faint scent of snacks lingers in the air. Clothes are neatly packed, ready for the dry cleaners, and a few strands of cat hair are scattered on the floor.


    As expected, women living alone really liked to keep cats.


    Although Alice appeared morous, in the end, she was just a single woman without a husband, who had also suffered the pain of losing a daughter.


    What kind of life is she leading? Despite her outward elegance, he imagines her lonely evenings, sipping beer and petting her cat, hiding from her own pain.


    "Please wash your hands first," Alice says, heading into the kitchen. "I just have one more dish to finish, so please wait a bit longer. And... no sneaking any bites."


    The table is set with an borate dinner, but Lucas recognizes it immediately as takeout from the Good Hunter restaurant. <i>I''m a regr there. I''d know the scent anywhere</i>, he thinks with an amused smile.


    ---


    thor''s Note: I''m currently resting in the hospital, so I apologize in advance if scheduled Chapters are not uploaded as nned. Over the next few days, I may not have enough time to check the app.

 Chapter 101: Villain Simulator, Ch 100

    <h4>Chapter 101: Viin Simtor, Ch 100</h4>


    <i>Disguising takeout as her own cooking¡ªwhat exactly is Alice''s goal here?</i> Lucas wondered. <i>Could it be... that she poisoned it?</i>


    Just as he debated whether to test the food for poison, Alice set down the final dish with a smile. "It''s just some simple dishes, please don''t mind them."


    "These are already quitevish," Lucas replied, masking his suspicions with ttery. "Miss Alice, you truly are a virtuous woman."


    Thest dish was a vegetable sd, but it was haphazardly prepared. Among the other dishes, it looked as out of ce as a dead frog tossed into a fishbowl. Even so, Alice shamelessly wiped imaginary sweat from her brow. "To me, these are trivial matters. I invited you here, so of course, I wanted to treat you well."


    "Having dinner with Miss Alice," Lucas responded lightly, "is my honor."


    Alice tilted her head while taking a seat across from him. "I hope you don''t mind me asking, but wouldn''t it be ufortable to eat while wearing a mask?"


    "I''m used to it," Lucas replied, touching the mask on his face. "The other half of my face is quite ugly. Taking off the mask at the dinner table might affect your appetite."


    "I don''t mind," Alice replied, shaking her head with an unexpected softness. "I''m not someone who cares about appearances. For a man capable of raising such a well-behaved child like Klee, you must have a heart of gold."


    Lucas nearly choked on his bite of sweet flower wine chicken. <i>A well-behaved child? Are you referring to Klee, who personally blew up two-thirds of the Knights of Favonius and whose thefts have exceeded 350 million Mora?</i>


    "Since Miss Alice insists, I suppose I''ll be rude," he said, slowly removing his mask to reveal his scarred cheek. "But I''m still curious¡ªwhy did you suddenly invite me here? Did Klee cause any trouble?"


    "No, no! Klee is an excellent child!" Alice assured, waving her hand. "She''s like the queen of the school, getting along easily with the other children."


    "That''s good to hear..." Lucas sighed with relief.


    "Well, she does asionally beat up a few ssmates and leave them injured," Alice added with a yful shrug.


    <i>Is this her idea of getting along?</i> Lucas''s expression shifted, and Aliceughed.


    "Just kidding. As the principal, I ensure the safety of every student," she said with a wink.


    "But the reason I invited you here today..." Alice''s tone softened as she lowered her gaze, a blush creeping onto her cheeks. "I remember Klee''s father... you''re a single parent, right?"


    "Yeah," Lucas replied, frowning slightly. "My wife passed away over a decade ago in an ident."


    "I''m very sorry to hear that. She must have been a wonderful wife," Alice said, adding, "and surely a great mother."


    <i>She would have been,</i> Lucas thought to himself. <i>If it weren''t for the mistakes you made.</i>


    He silently tightened his grip on his knife, the impulse to plunge it into Alice''s heart surging briefly within him.


    "I told you before¡ªone should look forward, not dwell on the past," Alice said, reaching out to ce her hand on Lucas''s. "Maybe it''s time for you to find a new wife. And Klee... she needs a mother."


    Lucas instinctively pulled his hand away, careful not to reveal the synthetic nature of his arm. <i>So that''s her n,</i> he realized.


    It was clear now¡ªAlice wasn''t interested in him personally. She hardly knew him, and their encounters were so few he could count them on one hand. No, her motive was to be Klee''s stepmother, a move that would seamlessly allow her to im Klee as her own. With Lucas alive, she couldn''t treat Klee as an adopted daughter; the only legitimate path was through marriage.


    <i>For the sake of bing Klee''s mother, Alice, could you really go this far?</i>


    ---


    Lucas''s reaction surprised Alice. With her looks, status, and wealth, she was ustomed to getting what she wanted. In her mind, an ordinary single father like Lucas should be overwhelmed with gratitude and affection by now, eager to pour his heart out. Instead, Lucas remained calm, almost resistant.


    "Miss Alice, I have considered remarrying," Lucas sighed. "But my face has scared off quite a few women."


    "I''ve told you¡ªI don''t care about appearances," Alice insisted. "From the first time I met you, I was captivated by the depth of your character."


    For a seasoned maniptor like Lucas, her ttery felt almostughable. <i>All this effort, just to be Klee''s mother?</i> he thought, coldly amused. <i>How should I respond to this?</i>


    Then, he recalled Sucrose''s advice: <i>This dinner might be an opportunity to redesign your revenge n.</i> Alice was gradually emerging from her sorrow, finding a new purpose¡ªexactly what Lucas didn''t want. The best way to destroy someone is to first give them hope. If he agreed to Alice''s proposal, allowing her to step into the role of Klee''s mother and experience happiness again, he couldter shatter that illusion when she least expected it.


    The thought of it made Lucas''s body tremble slightly with anticipation.


    To Alice, his reaction looked like hesitation. She leaned against his shoulder, allowing him to feel her warmth. "Haven''t you felt lonely all these years?" she whispered, her voice more seductive than before.


    Lucas''s response wasn''t verbal. Instead, he pulled her into a deep kiss. At first, Alice was surprised, instinctively pushing him away, but she quickly rxed. After all, this was precisely the oue she had hoped for.


    As Lucas had suspected, she didn''t love him; at best, she could say she "didn''t dislike" him.


    To Alice, humans were no different than Hilichurls. Even though she could face them as equals, she had never truly seen them as her peers. It was like how a person might love their dog but could never consider marrying it. That was why, years ago, when faced with the mudslide, Alice could blow up the mountainside without hesitation, sacrificing a few lives to save many without any psychological burden. In her mind, human life wasn''t priceless.


    So, for Alice, being kissed forcefully by a human felt like being kissed by a Hilichurl. Instinctively, she felt difort, but to gain Lucas''s trust, she forced herself to ept it. However, despite her vast knowledge, Alice was inexperienced in this area and could only respond awkwardly.


    <i>Is this what a kiss feels like?</i> she wondered, feeling a wave of confusion. <i>Aren''t kisses supposed to be gentle and sweet?</i> But Lucas''s kiss was rough, as if he wanted to consume her whole.


    Lucas''s emotions were even moreplicated. Kissing his enemy was no easy feat. A kiss between lovers should express love, but for Lucas, it was a channel for his suppressed hatred. The more passionate the kiss, the stronger his anger and resentment became.


    "Excuse me," Lucas finally muttered as he pulled away after what felt like an eternity.


    Alice was left dazed. "I just... didn''t expect you to be so forward."


    <i>Damn it, that was my first kiss!</i> she thought, but quickly reassured herself. <i>It''s worth it if it means bing Klee''s mother.</i>


    "So," Lucas said bluntly, "Miss Alice, do you want to marry me?"


    "Y-yes," Alice stammered, her face flushed with a hint of shyness.


    "Don''t you think this is moving a bit too fast?"


    "Not at all. We''re not young anymore, no need to be so shy," Lucas replied with a confident grin. "Actually, I really like Miss Alice, but there are certain difficulties I can''t share. That''s why I haven''t remarried all these years."


    "It''s okay!" Alice said earnestly. "Even if you have issues in that area, I wouldn''t mind at all."


    In fact, she thought it might be better if he did have issues in that regard. Kissing a human was already her limit; she doubted whether she could truly ept anything beyond that. Although she had prepared herself mentally for such possibilities, it still felt daunting.


    "It''s not that I can''t; rather... it''s too much," Lucas replied, his eyes suddenly turning seductive. "Ordinary women would probably find it hard to ept."


    Lucas''s tone shifted, abandoning the polite facade he''d maintained.


    "I... I think I can handle it," Alice forced a smile. "It''s normal for couples to be intimate, right?"


    "Why don''t we try it out now?" Lucas suggested, picking up an oyster from the hunter''s tter. He pried open the shell, revealing the juicy meat inside, and slurped it into his mouth. "We''re adults, after all. Before getting married, it''s wise to see if we''repatible. It''d be a shame to find out we aren''t after the wedding, wouldn''t it?"


    Mondstadt was an open country, and its liberal culture extended to rtionships. It wasn''t unusual for couples to be intimate before marriage. While Lucas and Alice both appeared young, Lucas was approaching middle age, and Alice''s true age was beyond anyone''s guess. His suggestion, given the context, wasn''t entirely unreasonable¡ªespecially since Alice had been the one to bring up marriage.


    But Lucas''s intentions were far from pure. He didn''t desire Alice; instead, he wanted to humiliate her. He knew she didn''t love him and likely looked down on him. Forcing her into this situation was his way of exacting revenge¡ªboth physically and psychologically.


    "I... I understand," Alice said after a moment of hesitation. "I''ll prove my sincerity. Please wait for me in the bedroom. I... I want to take a shower first."


    <i>She actually... agreed?</i>


    Though Lucas had entertained the idea, her eptance caught him off guard. Now that the opportunity was real, he felt a flicker of nervousness himself.


    ---


    ...When Lucas came to his senses, he found himself sitting in Alice''s bedroom. The soft purple sheets carried a faint floral fragrance, and the dim, warm lighting created an atmosphere that felt oddly intimate.


    "I''m sorry to keep you waiting," Alice said as she entered, wrapped in a towel.


    For a brief moment, Lucas thought he saw a hint of innocence in the woman who had once given birth to a child. <i>No, it must be an illusion,</i> he told himself, clenching his fists. <i>This is all an act; I can''t afford to feel pity for her.</i>


    <i>I need to break her spirit in the most brutal way possible.</i>


    "It wasn''t that long," Lucas replied, his face partially obscured by the dim light, making it hard to read his expression. "Sometimes, waiting can be a joy in itself."


    "You''re very gentle," Alice murmured, mistaking his words forfort. "Actually, I''m still..."


    "No, I''m not gentle at all," Lucas cut her off, his tone darkening as he pushed her down andunched himself at her like a beast.


    "You''ll find out soon enough."

 Chapter 102: Villain Simulator, Ch 101

    <h4>Chapter 102: Viin Simtor, Ch 101</h4>


    Lucas'' attack caught Alice off guard and within a second she was lying on the bed, the towel covering her body on the floor, her seductive bodypletely exposed.


    Even though Lucas had nothing but intense hatred for her, he had to admit that she was otherworldly beautiful.


    Herrge, bouncy breasts and soft, round buttocks, her skin as smooth as velvet.


    He held her hands tightly above her head while his other hand cupped her ample breasts, shaping them to his liking.


    Alice started to say something but Lucas cut her off by pulling her into a deep kiss.


    As Lucas'' lips touched hers and she felt her whole body tremble; he was enjoying the soft feel of her lips on his own.


    As the moments passed, he pressed his lips harder, turning her pretty face red. Lucas opened his mouth and began to suck on her lips. She felt his lips rubbing and sucking on hers, making her feel ashamed.


    She couldn''t do anything as he sucked, bit and nibbled on her lips. She wanted to push him away but held back for the sake of her n.


    Finally Lucas opened his mouth and pushed his tongue into her mouth. Alice''s mind wentpletely nk from the simtion she was experiencing from the kiss and the squeezing of her breasts.


    Lucas managed to get into her mouth and began to intertwine their tongues. Alice wanted to stop immediately so she unconsciously bit his tongue.


    Lucas pulled his tongue out and said "Ouch! Miss Alice, why did you do that?"


    Seeing this, Alice panicked, not wanting her n to be Klee''s mother to fail, a determined look appeared on her face.


    She wrapped her hands around his neck and took the initiative to kiss him. Lucas was surprised, he had not thought Alice would go so far for her n, but he returned the kiss.


    Alice forced herself to allow his tongue to enter hers as he sucked greedily on her tongue. The intense kiss continued for several minutes as they lost themselves in the intimate moment.


    His hands moved to her milky breasts and he cupped them both and began to squeeze them roughly. Alice''s body trembled with anticipation, no one had ever touched her there before.


    After kneading her breasts for a while, he moved his mouth closer to her perky nipples and began to suck on them aggressively.


    "Ahn~", a sweet moan escaped her mouth as she immediately covered her mouth.


    Lucas didn''t want her to do that, he wanted to humiliate herpletely, so he bit her nipples.


    "Aahhnn," she moaned loudly in pain and pleading.


    Eventually Lucas stopped his relentless attacks and his gaze moved to herher regions.


    He removed his clothes in an instant, Alice''s eyes wandering to his bulging dragon, she could only gasp at its size, wondering if it would fit inside her.


    Lucas wasted no time in lifting her legs and inserting his cock into her pink pussy.


    Alice panicked and tried to say something about it being her first time, but Lucas cut her off with a kiss and immediately thrust his dick into her cave.


    Tears streamed down her face and it was only then that Lucas noticed the crimson blood oozing from her cave. His expression changed to one of confusion but he did not stop, every time he saw Alice in pain he felt immense pleasure.


    .....


    A hourter.


    Lucas did not go back on his word; he was not gentle. In fact, he was rough.


    In previous simtions, he had always taken on the role of the viin. However, when it came to women¡ªwhether they were willing or coerced¡ªhe maintained a certain level of gentleness. There were two reasons for this: first, he didn''t harbor any hatred toward them, and second, all of them were "first-time kills." Unfortunately, neither of these reasons applied to Alice in his eyes.


    Yet, Lucas found himself feeling conflicted.


    On one side of the bed, Alicey wrapped in a nket, her body trembling as faint sobs escaped her. On the other side, a white towel was spread out, and underneath it were faint crimson stains.


    <i>This doesn''t make sense...</i> Lucas thought. <i>Alice already has a daughter. How could there still be...?</i>


    Could her elf physiology be capable of regenerating, like Ursa''s healing abilities? But that didn''t add up¡ªUrsa was a reptile that shed its skin, while the elf race was still mammalian.


    Over the past half hour, Lucas had executed his revenge operation wlessly¡ªperhaps even more sessfully than he had anticipated. This was clear from Alice''s current state; not only was shepletely broken down, but she was also... <i>Cough, cough.</i>


    "I''m sorry, Miss Alice," Lucas said awkwardly. "I didn''t know you were..."


    "Is that a reason to be so harsh?" Alice replied, her back still turned to him, her voiceced with tears. "You weren''t gentle at all..."


    "This isn''t about that," Lucas said, feeling unsettled. "Why were you still... I mean, didn''t you have a daughter?"


    <i>Did you give birth in a stable or something?</i>


    ---


    "This is a long story," Alice began, turning to face Lucas. Her snow-white cheeks were streaked with tears. "It''s a secret I''ve buried deep in my heart. But since you''re my future husband, I suppose it''s okay to tell you."


    As she spoke, she winced slightly, the lingering pain evident on her face despite her powerful elf physiology.


    "Is it still... very painful?" Lucas asked, his gaze shifting uneasily.


    Alice sighed. "I knew it would hurt, so I prepared painkillers in advance. But since it was my first time, I wanted to experience it authentically. I didn''t expect it to hurt this much... I guess I have a fragile spot after all."


    "I can''t take all the me," Lucas said helplessly. "I thought you had already..."


    "Let''s not dwell on that," Alice interrupted, her face flushing slightly. "This story starts five hundred years ago."


    "That long?" Lucas murmured, surprised.


    "Do you want to hear it or not?" Alice frowned. "This is the first time I''m sharing this with anyone, so I''m not sure how much I''ll say."


    "Please, continue," Lucas urged. "We have the whole night."


    Alice nodded. "The elf race is long-lived, and our numbers are few. Over time, I''ve witnessed death many times, and the more I saw, the more I began to fear it. No matter how long one lives, death is inevitable."


    "So, I started traveling the world, searching for a way to achieve immortality. But I made little progress¡ªuntil one day, I arrived in the kingdom of Khaenri''ah, long before its destruction. It was there that I met someone¡ªRhinedottir, a powerful alchemist. We exchanged knowledge, and I asked her about the possibility of immortality."


    "Even with all her expertise, she couldn''t grant immortality," Alice continued. "But she told me that the true meaning of life lies in inheritance, not eternity. The passing down of life itself is a form of immortality. When you pass on life, you may no longer be obsessed with immortality."


    "At the time, I proposed a naive idea. I told her that even if I had children, they too would eventually die. If they had no descendants, it still wouldn''t achieve true immortality, would it?"


    "Rhinedottir then shared a bold concept with me. At that time, she had made significant breakthroughs in alchemy. As you''re an alchemist yourself, you should know about the four stages of alchemy, right?"


    Alice''s sudden question briefly interrupted her story. As a master alchemist, Lucas immediately responded, "Of course¡ªck Soil, White Chalk, Red Essence, and Gold."


    He borated:


    - <i>ck Soil</i>: The beginning, the origin, the raw material.


    - <i>White Chalk</i>: The start of transformation, where impurities are removed while the essence is retained.


    - <i>Red Essence</i>: The process of refining the essence and shaping it.


    - <i>Gold</i>: The final stage, turning the raw ck Soil into valuable Gold¡ªalchemy''s ultimate miracle.


    "Exactly," Alice nodded. "Unlike alchemy in other nations, Khaenri''ah''s alchemy focuses on living beings, or biological alchemy. At that time, Rhinedottir had advanced past the ck Soil stage and reached the Chalk stage in biological alchemy. Using the limited and precious materials she had, she created two ''eggs'' and infused one with my gic material."


    Lucas began to piece it together. "So, that egg... it became your daughter?"


    "Yes," Alice confirmed. "That''s why, even though I have a descendant, I remained... well..." She trailed off, a hint of embarrassment crossing her face as she shifted the conversation.


    "But hatching this egg took a long time, so I carried it with me as I traveled across the continent of Teyvat. It became my only source offort during my five-hundred-year journey. Every heartbeat and movement from within the egg filled me with immense joy. I started to understand Rhinedottir''s words¡ªmy daughter was the continuation of my life, more precious than any pursuit of immortality."


    "It wasn''t until twelve years ago that she finally hatched. Even though she was just born, we had been mother and daughter for five hundred years."


    "At that time, I was ready to give up being an adventurer and devote myself to my daughter. But there was onest task I had toplete, so I temporarily left her in the care of the Favonius Knights. What I didn''t expect was..."


    Tears welled up in Alice''s eyes once again, her voice breaking.


    Finally, Lucas understood. Klee wasn''t just an ordinary child; she was an alchemical being¡ªa life created by infusing Alice''s essence. This exined why Klee could grow and develop normally, and why she had even been granted a Vision. Alchemical beings that advanced beyond the Chalk stage could be considered true "life."


    "I can understand your pain," Lucas said softly. "Whether it''s five hundred years or five years, losing a close family member is a pain that no one should bear."


    "Don''t feel sorry for me. I''ll give all my unfulfilled maternal love to Klee," Alice tightened her grip on Lucas''s hand, her eyes alight with passion. "Once we get married, I will be a good mother!"


    Her excitement jolted Lucas out of his earlier emotions. He had almost forgotten that the reason Alice was enduring everything was to "obtain" Klee.


    "You have no idea how much your words mean to me, but..." Lucas''s tone turned serious. "Klee is not a substitute for your daughter."


    "I... I know!" Alice realized her slip and quickly added, "Please don''t misunderstand. I want to marry you not just because of Klee but because... I really, really like you!"


    To be honest, Alice''s acting was terrible. Her evasive gaze and the sweat on her forehead revealed her guilt. But Lucas didn''t care¡ªafter all, he was a "fraud" too.


    "I''ve understood your situationpletely," Lucas said, standing up and putting on his clothes. "Anyway, you should get some rest. I''m leaving now."


    "Wait... wait a minute..." Alice asked nervously. "What about our marriage?"


    <i>Is he going to pull up his pants and deny everything?</i>


    "I mentioned earlier that this was a trial to see if we''repatible," Lucas said, turning back with a disappointed look. "On a scale of one to a hundred, how would you rate your performance just now?"


    <i>Rate myself?</i> Alice was taken aback. <i>How does one even rate something like this?</i>


    "Um..." She pressed her index fingers together, cautiously saying, "Around... eighty points?"


    <i>She really dares to say that...</i>


    "Twenty-three point five," Lucas said, shaking his head. "No more than that."


    "Why is there a decimal point?" Alice asked in frustration, momentarily at a loss. "And how did youe up with that score? Did you just make it up?"


    "I have very strict grading standards," Lucas raised a finger. "Do you want to hear them? The first assessment is oral¡ª"


    "No! No need for details!" Alice quickly interrupted, her face flushing. "So... did I fail?"


    Lucas''s words struck a blow to Alice''s confidence. She had assumed that with her beauty and figure, she could easily make any man submit. But Lucas clearly had "higher" expectations.


    As Lucas watched Alice''s expression shift, a wave of satisfaction washed over him. Moments of triumph are exhrating, but prolonged victories are even sweeter. There''s nothing more satisfying than watching an enemy falter.


    "How about we have the wedding in a week?" Lucas said nonchntly. "Let''s have it at Favonius Cathedral."


    "Eh?" Alice seemed stunned, murmuring, "Did you just agree... to marry me?"


    "Although you arecking in that area," Lucas forced a gentle smile, "Klee seems to like you."


    "Th-thank you!" Alice beamed, her face lighting up. "I will be a good mother! Klee... hee hee... my Klee..."


    <i>Not even pretending anymore, huh?</i> Lucas thought.


    <i>It''s okay, Alice. Just give all your maternal love to Klee. The deeper your love, the more painful it will be when your dream shatters.</i>


    ---


    When Lucas returned to the Alchemist Workshop, Sucrose was still there, tidying up the shelves.


    "Wee back," she said, not looking up from her work. "How did it go?"


    "It went smoothly," Lucas replied, hesitating before adding, "The wedding will be in a week."


    <i>Bang!</i>


    A potion bottle slipped from Sucrose''s hand, shattering on the floor. The deep purple liquid spilled out, releasing a strange fragrance.


    "Sucrose?" Lucas frowned, concerned. "Are you okay?"


    Their rtionship was delicate. Sucrose had spent a decade of her youth in this very workshop, a clear testament to her feelings for Lucas. Now, hearing about his uing marriage to Alice, someone he barely knew, made him feel like a scoundrel.


    "I''m fine," Sucrose quickly bent down to clean up the mess but identally cut her finger on the broken ss.


    She was usually careful and reliable, but within ten seconds, she made two mistakes. It was clear something was bothering her.


    Lucas took out a band-aid and gently held her hand, applying it to the wound. "This is just part of the revenge n," he whispered. "Once we destroy Alice, we''ll leave Mondstadt together."


    "You''ve said that before," Sucrose replied quietly, her gaze lingering on the blood on her finger. "You originally wanted to use Klee as part of your revenge, but now... can you still go through with it?"


    Her soul-searching question left Lucas speechless.


    It was true¡ªhe had changed the "revenge n" because of his own selfishness. He could no longer bring himself to put Klee in harm''s way. He knew Klee couldn''t win against Alice, and using her as a pawn was something Lucas could no longer stomach.


    "I won''t let that happen," Lucas finally said, cing aforting hand on Sucrose''s shoulder. "Alice is different from Klee. She''s my enemy, and I won''t... I won''t be merciful."


    "You should get some rest," he added, picking up a cloth to clean the spilled potion. "By the way, what kind of potion is this? I''ve never seen it before."


    "It''s the Slime Dissolution Essence I just refined," Sucrose answered tly. "It has a strong dissolving effect on skin and muscle."


    Lucas gave a wry smile. "Something that dangerous should definitely be kept out of Klee''s reach."


    "I''ll take care of it," he said, continuing to clean up the spill.


    Sucrose remained silent, quietly watching her hand as a drop of purple potion slid down her smooth skin.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Nah not adding these scenes again... .-.

 Chapter 103: Villain Simulator, Ch 102

    <h4>Chapter 103: Viin Simtor, Ch 102</h4>


    [You told Klee the news about your uing marriage to Alice, thinking she would be happy since she seems to really like Alice.]


    [However, the little one frowned and asked a difficult question: "Father, if Klee has a new mommy, will the mommy in heaven be unhappy about it?"]


    [You couldn''t tell Klee that Alice is her real mother, so you gently reassured her: "Mommy will understand. She wants you to be happy, just like I do."]


    ["But what about the n to help mommy get revenge and defeat the evil demon king?" Klee suddenly remembered, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "The story of ''The Hero Klee vs. The Demon King'' isn''t over yet, right?"]


    ["It''s already over," you said, gently patting Klee''s head. "Father will find another way to defeat the demon king."]


    [In truth, Klee, now twelve years old, had started to realize that what she had been doing might not have been some grand quest to defeat a demon king, but actual acts of crime. Yet, for her entire life, <i>The Hero Klee vs. The Demon King</i> had been her source of strength. Now, hearing that it hade to an abrupt end was hard for her to ept.]


    [It was rare to see Klee looking so downcast, but you knew that after marrying Alice, continuing these criminal activities would be too dangerous. Though Klee was mischievous, she was also an understanding child. She didn''t oppose your marriage to Alice but quietly returned to her room, clearly disappointed.]


    [The wedding took ce as scheduled a weekter at Favonius Cathedral, with Jean serving as the officiant. She is a mutual friend of yours and Alice''s. Watching her awkwardly hold the speech with her synthetic hand and sincerely bless you both, you felt a twinge of guilt towards this woman for the first time.]


    [To your surprise, many people attended the wedding¡ªpatrons from the Alchemist Workshop, neighbors, members of the Favonius Knights, and children and parents from the school.]


    [To avoid suspicion, you didn''t let Klee attend the ceremony and instead asked Sucrose to take care of her.]


    [The wedding proceeded smoothly. But when it came time to exchange rings, as you looked at Alice in her wedding dress, your mind began to drift. It felt like you were back at eighteen, recalling the simple and warm wedding you had with Virginia in a small vige church.]


    [Jean''s voice brought you back to reality as she read the vows aloud: "Do you vow before the Anemo Archon to love,fort, respect, and protect her, in sickness and in health, in wealth and poverty, remaining loyal to her until you leave this world?"]


    [For some reason, the words <i>I do</i> felt like a fishbone stuck in your throat. You couldn''t speak them. Saying those words felt like a betrayal to yourte wife.]


    [Just then, a sudden explosion echoed from a distance, shaking the cathedral and causing chaos.]


    [What shocked you most was the sound of the explosion¡ªit was unmistakably simr to the bombs Klee used in her past criminal activities.]


    [Could Klee have caused this during the wedding?]


    [You and your fellow Favonius Knights quickly evacuated the guests, and as the chief Alchemist, you were obligated to join the investigation. The wedding had to be interrupted.]


    [When you arrived at the scene, the statue of Barbatos, the Anemo Archon, in front of Favonius Cathedral had been destroyed. Around forty percent of the statue had been blown apart, and over twenty people were injured nearby.]


    [You immediately began inspecting the remains, analyzing the debris for explosive materials. Momentster, Jean informed you that they had found the body of a suspect. The cause of death seemed to be a miscalction in the st range, which had killed the suspect by blowing apart half of his body.]


    [For a moment, your mind went nk, and you nearly fainted. Jean, noticing your reaction, warned you that the body was too gruesome to look at. But you insisted on seeing it.]


    [With Jean''s support, you approached the mangled remains¡ªit was an adult male.]


    [Relief flooded over you as you realized it wasn''t Klee. A small, involuntary smile appeared on your face. Jean, confused, asked why you were smiling, and you quickly made an excuse: <i>Evil Sun</i> had finally been caught.]


    [But Jean quickly doused your excitement, reminding you that <i>Evil Sun</i> was a girl. This man couldn''t be her, meaning this explosion was likely just a copycat crime.]


    [The wedding ended abruptly, and you and Alice didn''t n on rescheduling. Alice, ever understanding, didn''t press you for an answer to the wedding vows. Of course, you suspected she didn''t care much about them.]


    [Age 37: You found yourself living in a very "strange" family. You, the husband, pretended to love your wife while secretly seeing her as your enemy. The wife pretended to love her husband but was really only interested in her husband''s daughter. And the daughter believed she finally had a happy family, even though she had never truly experienced maternal love.]


    [Your role was clear. You didn''t need tomit any more crimes or find ways to defeat Alice, a woman of nearly monstrous power. All you had to do was y the perfect husband, allowing Alice to experience the happiness of family life¡ªespecially the joy of being a mother.]


    [Without a doubt, Alice was a capable mother. She wasn''t overly indulgent and adhered to sound educational principles. If there was one w, it was herck of cooking skills, which hadn''t improved.]


    [The hardest part for you was constantly showing affection toward your enemy. You had to act like you were madly in love with Alice, preventing her from bing suspicious of your true intentions.]


    [This foolish woman actually believed that you were hopelessly in love with her. She even went as far as practicing in the bedroom for your sake.]


    [But you had to admit, aside from her cooking, Alice learned incredibly quickly. She even kept a notebook, recording your feedback after each session and analyzing her performance.]


    [Before long, her scores improved from twenty-three point five to passing marks: seventy, eighty-three, ny-one, and even one hundred twenty-eight...]


    [Yes, that damn woman had quickly evolved from naive and inexperienced to insatiable. After all, in human terms, Alice was at the stage of life where her desires were at their peak.]


    [The person most dissatisfied with this situation was Sucrose. She hadined to you more than once that the gic samples she collected were bing increasingly diluted, making them less useful for her alchemical experiments.]


    [But there was something else you couldn''t ignore.]


    [The explosion that urred during your weddingst year waster confirmed to be a copycat crime. The perpetrator was not the long-wanted "Evil Sun," but an unidentified man.]


    [Initially, you thought it was just a coincidence, but it unexpectedly marked the beginning of a series of troubling events.]


    [After you halted Klee''s criminal ns and shelved the adventure book "Hero Klee vs. the Demon King," the name <i>Evil Sun</i> seemed to vanish from existence.]


    [Some suspected she had retired from crime and was living freely, while others believed she had died in one of her own explosions. But for some reason, her disappearance triggered a wave of copycat explosions.]


    [The motives of these copycats weren''t for profit but purely for destruction. Many used suicidal methods, and they shared twomon traits¡ª]


    [First, they all had ck sun tattoos on their bodies, seemingly paying homage to <i>Evil Sun</i>. Second, their identities were untraceable, as if they had appeared out of nowhere, leaving no clues to follow.]


    [These copycat crimes were even more destructive than the ones you and Klee hadmitted, as they seemed to serve no purpose other than causing chaos.]


    [For a time, Mondstadt was gripped by panic, and the Favonius Knights had to double their efforts to restore order. Every time you saw Jean, her dark circles seemed to have grown deeper.]


    [As the chief Alchemist of the Favonius Knights, your job wasn''t easy either. Every time an incident urred, you were called to analyze and investigate. What had started as a convenient position to cover your own crimes had now turned you into a tool for the Knights.]


    [However, these madmen''s actions worked in your favor, distracting attention and reducing the chances of you and Klee being discovered.]


    [Age 38: Your marriage had passed its first year smoothly. Aside from the asional bombing case giving you a headache, your life had be much morefortable.]


    [Without the constant need to walk the edge of danger, Klee seemed to have moved on from the regrets of <i>The Hero Klee vs. The Demon King</i>.]


    [It''s not surprising, considering Klee has no real memories of her "deceased mother," and Alice has filled that void in her heart.]


    [As for you, you''ve gradually adapted to this life¡ª a beautiful wife, a lovely daughter, and a respectable job. In every sense, you appear to be living the life of a winner.]


    [Alice not only loves Klee deeply, but she has also grown ustomed to her role as your wife. You''re unsure if her affection for you is genuine or merely a fa?ade to maintain this warm family, but you no longer care. As long as she ys her part, that''s enough.]


    [One day, while looking in the mirror, you noticed the white hairs at your temples and the wrinkles starting to appear on your face. Perhaps due to thefort of your life, you hadn''t used alchemical enhancements in a long time, and your body was slowly reverting to its natural state.]


    [Age 39: Alice hadn''t nned to get involved with the increasing bombings until one day, a group of deranged criminals took advantage of her absence to break into the school she had founded and nted bombs.]


    [Upon receiving the news, you and Alice rushed to the school, only to find that the leader of the criminals specifically requested to meet with Alice for negotiations.]


    [Alice immediately agreed. With her strength, she had no reason to fear any tricks from them. However, when they confronted the criminals, the leader handed Alice a remote with two buttons¡ªone red and one blue.]


    [The criminal told her that he had nted bombs in both the red and blue sses. Pressing one button would detonate the bomb in that ss, while the other ss would be spared. Alice had one minute to choose which ss to save.]


    [For Alice, the decision should have been simple. There were only a dozen students in the red ss, while the blue ss had over fifty. ording to her principles, saving therger group would have been the obvious choice.]


    [But this time, Alice hesitated because Klee was in the red ss.]


    [After half a minute of agonizing struggle, Alice pressed the blue button.]


    [A violent explosion followed. The criminal smiled triumphantly, but in the next moment, Alice punched his head with such force that it exploded.]


    [The red ss was saved, and Klee was unharmed, but all fifty-three students in the blue ss perished.]


    [Before the other criminals could be arrested, theymitted suicide, leaving you even more perplexed. It seemed that this operation wasn''t just about causing destruction but about forcing Alice into making an impossible choice.]


    [This situation seemed eerily connected to the incident from years ago, when Alice blew up the mountainside to prevent arger catastrophe.]


    [However, you''re convinced it''s just a coincidence. After all, no one else could possibly torment Alice this way, except for you.]


    [Though Alice wasn''t directly responsible for the deaths of the fifty-three students, public opinion quickly turned against her,beling her selfish for choosing to save her stepdaughter over innocent children.]


    [Alice locked herself in your home, deeply shaken. For the first time, you saw her so utterly broken. Logically, seeing your enemy in such pain should have brought you immense satisfaction, but this time, you felt no joy at all.]


    [Whileforting Alice, she revealed a past event to you: years ago, during a geological survey near Mondstadt, she discovered that a vigey in a low-lying area. If a mudslide urred, it would wipe out the entire vige.]


    [Alice nned to blow up the mountain to prevent the disaster, but the mudslide came sooner than expected. Faced with the choice of saving the vige or sacrificing one household, she chose to sacrifice the few to save the many.]


    [Throughout her five hundred years of travel, Alice had encountered simr situations and had always chosen to save the majority without hesitation.]


    [But this time, she went against her principles. The fairness she had always upheld now seemed like self-deception.]


    [You cautiously asked, "If you were given another chance, would you still choose to sacrifice those children for Klee?"]


    ["Even if the other side of the scale held the entire world," Alice replied without hesitation, "I would still choose Klee."]


    [This incident has had a profound impact on Alice. Parents who lost their children appear at your doorstep almost daily, crying and cursing, as if Alice were the one who had killed their children.]


    [In the past, Alice would have fought back against such usations, but now she hides at home, as if wanting to escape it all.]


    [During this time, Alice has be particrly dependent on you, seekingfort from you more frequently, as if trying to drown her inner turmoil in physical pleasure.]


    [While Alice''s pain should bring you satisfaction, the fact that it wasn''t caused by your own hands leaves you feeling indifferent.]


    [You "used all your strength" to help Alice recover as quickly as possible, but in her current state, you feel no desire for revenge.]


    [Age 40: Alice''s period of despairsted for several months, but under your and Klee''s care, she gradually began to recover.]


    [Klee, now sixteen, has blossomed into a beautiful and vibrant young girl. She seems to have forgotten her identity as <i>Evil Sun</i> and is fully enjoying her peaceful, happy life.]


    [But you know it''s time to take the final step in your revenge. Once Alice fully recovers, you''ll take Klee and Sucrose and leave her forever, stripping her of all her happiness.]


    [You can''t wait any longer¡ªthe longer you stay, the deeper you''ll sink. Sometimes, you even find it surprising that you haven''t dreamed of your deceased wife and daughter in a long time.]


    ---


    Author''s Note: I''ve been discharged from the hospital! While it will take a few weeks for a full recovery, I''m feeling much better now. Thank you all for your kind wishes and support!


    So I''ll start uploading daily extra Chapters again.


    Goal is same 400 p.s = 1 extra Chapter! You won''t have to wait till the weekend so vote now!

 Chapter 104: Villain Simulator, Ch 103

    <h4>Chapter 104: Viin Simtor, Ch 103</h4>


    [One day, as you pushed open the door to your home, you were suddenly sprayed in the face with confetti. Alice and Klee were waiting for you, and on Alice''s face, you saw a smile that had long since disappeared.]


    ["Congrattions!" Alice suddenly hugged you, catching you off guard. She cried with joy, "Soon, you''ll be the father of two children¡ªor maybe even three!"]


    [Alice was pregnant, which exined why she had begun to emerge from the shadows of her recent despair. She had once told you that it was incredibly difficult for the Elf Race to conceive, especially with someone from another race.]


    [At that moment, you felt a mix of happiness and deep conflict. Abandoning Alice was no longer an easy decision, especially now that she was carrying your child.]


    [Klee seemed even happier than the two of you, already imagining the joy of having a little brother or sister to y with.]


    [Alice told you that during pregnancy, the Elf Race bes very weak. She had already made arrangements to stay in a hospital to avoid anyplications. You agreed with her n and took her to the best hospital in Mondstadt.]


    [After returning home, your emotions were more conflicted than ever. You suddenly remembered that this year marked the twentieth anniversary of your daughter''s birth. You decided to secretly return to your hometown¡ªperhaps visiting the graves of your deceased wife and daughter would help renew your resolve for revenge.]


    [You returned to the vige where you had once lived. Years ago, andslide had forced the entire vige to relocate. You had been gone for so long, and with your altered appearance, no one would recognize you.]


    [You expected that finding the graves from over a decade ago would be difficult, but to your surprise, you quickly located the graves of your wife and daughter. The site had been renovated, and the tombstone was polished and well-maintained. You wondered who, besides you, still remembered them.]


    [You pretended to be a lost traveler and asked an old man passing by about the origins of this solitary grave. The old man told you that years ago, andslide nearly destroyed the vige. A witch had appeared and blown up the mountainside to stop it, saving the vige, but identally killed a family of three in the process. To express their remorse, the vigers regrly visit the grave to pay their respects.]


    [You couldn''t help but sneer internally. <i>What''s the point of alleviating guilt in this way?</i>]


    [Perhaps because he hadn''t spoken to an outsider in some time, the old man continued chatting. Just as you were about to leave, he sighed and murmured, "It was such a tragedy. When they were found, the wife and daughter were holding each other tightly. The husband''s body wasn''t discovered until a monthter, but his head was missing."]


    [His words hit you like a bolt of lightning. You were alive<i>,</i> so how could your body have been dug up? Was it possible that someone else''s remains had been mistaken for yours and buried in the grave?]


    [You couldn''t let such a thing go unresolved. Under the cover of night, you returned to the grave and opened it. Inside, you found three coffins. You pried open thergest one.]


    [Insidey the skeleton of a man¡ªwithout a skull. As you examined the remains, you were shocked to see clear breakage marks on the arm bones, right where your own arm had been severed.]


    [Your heart filled with confusion. You took this skeleton, along with a fragment of your daughter''s bones, and rushed back to yourboratory in Mondstadt for gic analysis.]


    [Though biological alchemy wasn''t your specialty, the task wasn''t difficult. Soon, you had the results¡ªindeed, the two skeletons were gically rted.]


    [A wave of breathlessness overwhelmed you. If this skeleton was you, then <i>who</i> were you?]


    [This revtion far exceeded your understanding. You thought it might just be a nightmare¡ªthat a good night''s sleep would help you forget everything by morning.]


    [You returned home in a daze, but as soon as you opened the door, you heard a familiar yet strange voice say, "Nice to meet you for the first time."]


    [Entering immersive mode]


    [Mission objective: End all of this]


    Standing before you was a man who looked exactly like you. He was sitting on the sofa, casually munching on snacks from the table, flipping through an old picture book¡ªthe same book you made for Klee, <i>The Hero Klee vs. The Demon King.</i>


    "Who are you?" Lucas asked, his voice filled with confusion and disbelief.


    "Why are you pretending to be me?"


    "Pretending to be you?" The man smiled and shook his head. "No. To be precise, I created you in my image."


    "Now that you know the truth, this ''experiment'' can finallye to an end."


    Lucas didn''t fully grasp the man''s words, but he felt a dangerous presence emanating from him. Without a second thought, Lucas grabbed a fruit knife from the dining table and hurled it at the man.


    To his shock, the knife shattered upon impact with a sharp <i>crack,</i> scattering in pieces across the room.


    "You can''t hurt me," the man said calmly. "Because I am <i>Perfect Work.</i>"


    He nodded, seemingly pleased with the name. "Yes, Perfect Work. It suits me well. After all, I am the most perfect creation."


    Lucas realized this person was far more powerful than he appeared. With a cold expression, Lucas asked, "What do you mean by ''experiment''?"


    "Don''t rush. It''s quite an interesting story," Perfect Work said, taking a leisurely sip of red tea.


    "Five hundred years ago, in a country called Khaenri''ah, there was a powerful alchemist named Rhinedottir. Her greatest achievement was the ability to create life through alchemy."


    "And I am Rhinedottir''s most perfect creation. Without exception. Unfortunately, my ''mother'' was too blind to see my true value and treated me as a defective product. She destroyed me and fed my remains to another of her experiments¡ªShadow Dragon Durin."


    "Later, Durin perished in battle on the snowy mountains. I seized that moment to escape from its body. I fled, stumbling my way through the snow until I found refuge in a forest."


    "I spent time recovering there, but I couldn''t stop thinking about why I was considered defective. As an artificial life, I should have been perfect. Logically, there was no reason for me to be discarded."


    "So, I began observing humans. There was a vige near the forest, and I would hide in the shadows, watching them, trying to understand what Icked."


    "But I could not find the answer. So, I devised an experiment. I took a part of my own body as the foundation and created a new alchemical being¡ªone that would live among humans and see if it could evolve."


    "To help it blend into human society, I caused andslide by destroying the mountains and vegetation, triggering heavy rains that would wipe out the vige. My n was to disguise you as one of the victims, allowing you to infiltrate human society unnoticed."


    "But that damned witch ruined everything. Still, thendslide managed to kill a family. So, I severed the man''s head and transnted his memories into the alchemical being I had created¡ªYou."


    ---


    Author''s Note: Sorry for dy.. I was sleeping.. Here''s the extra chap


    You know the goal for next one :)

 Chapter 105: Villain Simulator, Ch 104

    <h4>Chapter 105: Viin Simtor, Ch 104</h4>


    Hearing this, Lucas finally understood why he hadn''t aged and why his body had been so perfectlypatible with Sucrose''s alchemical arm, without a hint of rejection.


    It was because he had been an alchemical creation all along!


    Although when Lucas took on the role of the simtor, his emotions and personality would resonate with the character, he still retained his primary consciousness.


    In other words, as shocking as this story was, to Lucas in the simtor''s immersive mode, it was still just that - a story.


    "You seem pretty calm. I expected you to be more shaken," the Perfect Creation remarked, somewhat disappointed. "But after twenty years of observation, I''ve finally realised what I''ve been missing."


    "Don''t tell me it''s something like ''love''," Lucas replied coldly. "I might throw up."


    "No, it''s ''fulfilment''," the Perfect Creation replied. "When you are satisfied with your life, you naturally reach a new evolution."


    So that''s what it was?


    Indeed, the reason why Lucas had begun to age, and why Alice had been able to conceive, was because he had begun to live this ''strange'' family life.


    It was the gradual satisfaction of this happy life that allowed Lucas to be truly "human".


    "So the perpetrators of those bombings," Lucas suddenly realised, "were also alchemical beings created by you?"


    "They were only part of what you saw. In truth, many people in Mondstadt have already been reced by my alchemical beings, just as I have reced you," the Perfect Creation said with a smug grin. "And now that I know how to evolve, I''m going to take over your lives. That way I can achieve the conditions for evolution as well."


    "That''s impossible," Lucas scoffed. "Do you think that simply taking my form will make my family trust you? Klee and Alice will never be fooled by you!"


    "Klee is a lovely child. I like her very much and I''ll keep her as my daughter," the Perfect Creation said indifferently. "As for Alice, do you know? I have just finished telling Klee the story from that picture book in your ce. I even told her who killed her mother."


    As he spoke, the Perfect Creation held the picture book in front of Lucas. All the pages had been torn out, leaving only thest one intact.


    In the illustration, Klee was holding a bomb, and in front of her stood Alice, engulfed in mes.


    "After hearing the story, Klee walked away with a grim expression. I suspect she''s on her way to the hospital to find Alice," the Perfect Creation said with a mischievous grin. "Alice is at her weakest right now. If Klee attacks her, do you think... she''ll survive?"


    "You bastard!"


    Lucas had no intention of continuing this exchange with the madman. He turned to leave immediately, but before he could, a figure stepped out of the shadows and blocked the doorway.


    "Sucrose?" Lucas was stunned. "Why are you here?"


    Yes, it was Sucrose standing in front of him!


    "Don''t you understand yet? Why do you think I know so much about your life?" The Perfect Creation let out a maniacalugh. "Sucrose is also an alchemical creation of mine. Her only purpose was to watch you."


    "That''s impossible!" Lucas retorted immediately. "Alchemical creatures don''t grow! I''ve lived with Sucrose for over a decade. I''ve seen every change she''s gone through!"


    But the Perfect Creation justughed harder. "Who told you I only made one Sucrose?"


    Lucas seemed to realise something and muttered, "Could it be..."


    "Exactly," the Perfect Creation spread his arms and smiled. "Ever since I sent Sucrose to your alchemy workshop, I''ve been recing her with a new version from time to time, creating the illusion that she''s growing. So, what do you think? Isn''t my technique impable?"


    Lucas looked at Sucrose, his expressionplicated. "Sucrose... is what he says true?"


    "I''m sorry," Sucrose walked slowly behind the Perfect Creation, bowing slightly. "As a creation, I cannot disobey the orders of my creator."


    "No need to apologise, Sucrose. It''s not your fault," Lucas shook his head and said, "Regardless of your intentions, I''m grateful for the time we''ve spent together."


    Sucrose''s eyes widened in surprise and tears slowly trickled down her cheeks.


    "How touching," the Perfect Creation sneered. "She''s only an alchemical creation. You didn''t actually develop feelings for her, did you? Pfft!"


    As the Perfect Creation spoke, Sucrose quickly pulled a syringe from behind him and stabbed it directly into his neck.


    Lucas recognised the syringe immediately - it was fitted with a specially designed needle capable of piercing even the thickest hide of a boar. The dark purple liquid inside was the corrosive agent Sucrose had been researching.


    The perfect creation never expected his own creation to betray him. As the corrosive liquid spread through his body, he began to convulse violently.


    "Boss, this... is the only thing I can do for you..." Sucrose strained to inject the rest of the liquid, her eyebrows furrowed in concentration. "I''ve been waiting... for this moment!"


    "Foolish!"


    The Perfect Creation suddenly produced a small remote control from his hand. As he pressed the button, Sucrose''s body began to emit smoke.


    Realising what was happening, Sucrose turned to Lucas onest time, smiling as tears streamed down her face. "Thank you... I finally felt... what it''s like to be human..."


    Before she could finish her sentence, her body seized up, like a machine that had run out of power. Her golden eyes dimmed and she copsed to the floor with a soft thud.


    "She knew I had a failsafe, yet she did this. It seems my creation wasn''t as wless as I thought," the Perfect Creation said, touching his neck with a frown. "How idiotic, to betray me for you."


    Anger surged through Lucas. He leapt forward and punched the Perfect Creation right in the face. The force of the blow twisted his head at an unnatural angle.


    If he were a normal human, he''d be dead. But the Perfect Creation just smiled and retaliated with a powerful kick that sent Lucas flying through the window. Shards of ss embedded themselves in his body as hended outside.


    "Cough!"


    Lucas spat out blood. In the simtor, he could only use the abilities of his simted character. If he could use his real strength, the Perfect Creation wouldn''t stand a chance.


    At that moment, a series of explosions could be heard in the distance. Buildings in the city went up in mes, one after the other, as the night sky over Mondstadt lit up like daylight.


    "Do you know why I''ve orchestrated so many bombings?" the Perfect Creation asked, slowly exiting the room. "My next goal is to rece every person in this city with alchemical puppets. But their numbers are too great, so I need to do some... cleansing first."


    "What''s the point of all this?" Lucas asked coldly. "If you want to rule over a bunch of alchemical beings, why go to such extremes?"


    "No, I want to create a paradise - one for me and Klee," the Perfect Creation said, shaking his head. "Klee and I are Rhinedottir''s most perfect creations. We will be the Adam and Eve of this new world!"


    Adam and Eve? In this universe?


    Lucas'' expression becameplicated.


    So the Perfect Creation was one of the two alchemical beings Rhinedottir made. But Klee, born in the warmth of Alice''s love, had transcended the ''chalk'' phase and be a true being.


    Meanwhile, the perfect creation, treated only as an "experiment", had ultimately be a failure.


    "I see now," Lucas sneered. "I truly pity you. After all, you''re nothing but Rhinedottir''s defective product."


    "Shut up!"


    The Perfect Creation''s face twisted with rage. His previously calm demeanour vanished. He crouched down and grabbed Lucas by the throat, his expression vicious. "I... am the most perfect! Klee and I are made of the best materials!"


    "How can youpare?" Lucas struggled to speak, fighting against suffocation. "Klee is my golden apple, and you... you''re nothing but a pile of dog shit! You should call yourself the Defective Creation!"


    "I will kill you!"


    Enraged, the Perfect Creation prepared to strangle Lucas to death. But at that moment, Lucas'' strength surged, allowing him to pry the Perfect Creation''s hands off.


    In the Perfect Creation''s moment of surprise, Lucas flipped him over and pinned him to the ground. His arms swelled with muscle and his entire body exuded an intense pressure.


    That''s right - when he''d been thrown out of the window earlier, Lucas had injected himself with a body-strengthening serum he''d developed.


    Although the serum carried significant risks, this wasn''t the time to worry about them.


    After all, dying in the simtor wouldn''t affect his real self. He had to deal with this madman once and for all.


    "This punch is for Sucrose!"


    With his strength and speed multiplied many times over, Lucas unleashed a barrage of punches. Each blownded on the Perfect Creation, leaving him unable to defend himself.


    For a full minute, Lucas rained down blows. After over three or four hundred hits, the Perfect Creation''s body was so battered that it no longer resembled anything human.


    The side effects of the body-enhancing serum were far more severe than Lucas had expected. His entire body felt like it was on fire, and with a staggering step he copsed to the floor.


    "Is it over?"


    In the distance, the sound of explosions still echoed through the night. Mondstadt was more chaotic than ever, surpassing even the celebrations of the Ludi Harpastum Festival.


    Lying on the ground, Lucas let the heat spread through his body, feeling as if tiny bombs were exploding in his muscles, tearing them apart from the inside.


    Was this what death felt like?


    Even though he knew that dying in the simtor would do no real harm, Lucas couldn''t help but feel a pang of regret.


    He wanted to ruffle Klee''s hair once more.


    He wanted to know if Alice''s child would be a boy or a girl...


    "Yo, is this really the end?"


    Just as Lucas resigned himself to his fate and prepared to ept death, a grating voice rang out beside him.


    The Perfect Creation stood over him, his face now grotesquely distorted by Lucas'' earlier barrage of blows. His features were so distorted that he looked as if he''d fallen down a flight of stairs, his once perfect face now a twisted mess of dents and cracks.


    Yet he was still alive.


    "I told you I was perfect." The perfect creation lifted a foot and pressed it down on Lucas'' chest, his voice cold and threatening. "You were created by me. How could you ever be stronger than me?"


    Lucas was stunned - this creature''s vitality was far beyond what he had expected.


    But it made sense. The perfect creation was made by Rhinedottir, the closest thing to a wless work of alchemy. Lucas, on the other hand, was merely a creation born from a fraction of his materials.


    "It''s unfortunate," the perfect creation continued, his voice dripping with mockery. "You struck me in the face, but my core is in my chest. Too bad you won''t get another chance."


    "Have you forgotten?" Lucas suddenly smiled despite the pain. "My greatest weapon isn''t my enhanced body or even the serum... It''s alchemy."


    "Alchemy? Your alchemy is like a child''s toy to me," the Perfect Creation scoffed. "And don''t forget the principle of alchemy: equivalent exchange. You don''t have any materials left for transmutation."


    "Who says I don''t?"


    Lucas raised his right hand, a twisted grin spreading across his face. "My body is the best material of all. Alchemical armament!"


    At hismand, the alchemical arm Sucrose had created for him began to glow with an eerie light, shifting and transforming at a speed visible to the naked eye.


    His arm turned into a long, thick barrel with two ck muzzles forming at the knuckles. A flickering me could be seen inside the barrel, preparing to ignite.


    The Perfect Creation''s smug expression faltered as he realised what was happening. He tried to flee, but the damage Lucas had inflicted earlier had slowed him down. His body, weakened by the relentless beating, was no longer able to move at full speed.


    "Times have changed, old man!"


    With a loud bang, the weapon fired a barrage of makeshift ''ammunition'' straight into the Perfect Creation''s chest, creating dozens of small holes.


    The ammunition wasn''t standard bullets, but an improvised concoction of broken ss, pebbles, nails and screws, alchemically transmuted on the spot.


    The special ''shotgun'' st didn''t lose any of its lethality, especially at such close range. The Perfect Creation''s chest now resembled a honeb, riddled with gaping holes.


    His alchemical core, the heart of his existence, was now exposed, pulsing weakly in his chest.


    For the first time, the Perfect Creation''s face showed pure fear and desperation.


    "No... please..." he pleaded weakly. "I am your creator..."


    "Bang!"


    Lucas replied with another shot, right into the exposed core.


    This time, without the outer shell to protect it, the explosive force tore the core apart, shredding it to pieces.


    The broken core flickered a few more times before losing all light and finally ceasing to function.


    With its core destroyed, the Perfect Creation copsed to the ground like a lifeless puppet, its strings severed.


    Two point-nk shots were enough to finish even the toughest of alchemical constructs. Even someone like the Raiden Shogun herself would have fallen with such direct hits.


    Lucas, however, waspletely drained. The side effects of the serum had already taken their toll on his body, and using alchemy on top of that had pushed him to the absolute limit. He could barely stand as he stumbled to his feet, every movement a struggle.


    But he forced himself forward, his eyes set on the hospital.


    "I have to stop Klee..."


    Lucas'' heart raced with fear - the thought of Klee being manipted by the Perfect Creation into believing that Alice had killed her mother was terrifying. If Klee acted on that belief...


    Though the Perfect Creation was dead, the chaos he had unleashed on Mondstadt continued. The alchemical dolls he had created had gone berserk, turning the night into a living nightmare for the city.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Hell yeah

 Chapter 106: Villain Simulator, Ch 105

    <h4>Chapter 106: Viin Simtor, Ch 105</h4>


    Even if the entire Knights of Favonius were mobilized, it would still be difficult to quickly suppress the situation.


    Lucas was already struggling just to keep moving, let alone avoid the alchemical marauders that could appear at any moment.


    By the time he finally arrived near the hospital, he realized the area had also been surrounded by minions of the Perfect Creation.


    These alchemical creatures didn''t have much intelligence and operated solely on simplemands. Now that the Perfect Creation had been destroyed, they continued to follow theirst orders relentlessly, with no signs of stopping.


    Suddenly, an explosion erupted from one of the hospital rooms in a high-rise building.


    Lucas''s heart skipped a beat¡ªthe room that had exploded was precisely where Alice was staying.


    Had he still been toote?


    But before he could process it, several broken alchemical dolls were flung out of the window, crashing hard onto the ground below.


    "Full firepower!"


    To Lucas''s surprise, he heard a familiar voice. He looked up just in time to see Klee jump out of the window,nding gracefully on the ground.


    In her hands, two bombs appeared from nowhere, and she quickly hurled them at the remaining alchemical dolls.


    In the fiery explosion, Lucas saw that same familiar smile on Klee''s face¡ªmadness, excitement, and adorableness, all at once.


    "Dad, you''re so slow!" Klee waved at Lucas with a grin. "Mom and the baby are perfectly safe! Isn''t Klee amazing?"


    Lucas finally felt a wave of relief wash over him.


    It turned out Klee hadn''te to the hospital to harm Alice, but to protect her.


    Whether she had seen through the Perfect Creation''s disguise or simply forgiven Alice, it no longer seemed to matter.


    Even though Klee hadn''t used her powers for years, it was clear she hadn''t forgotten herbat experience.


    "Jumpty Dumpty!"


    "Kaboom!"


    Thanks to her Vision, the bombs she created were incredibly powerful, and the clumsy alchemical dolls were no match for her. In no time, they were all reduced to ashes.


    Klee wasn''t just protecting Alice and the hospital¡ªshe was also venting years of suppressed urges to cause mayhem.


    By the time Jean, the Acting Grand Master, arrived, Klee had already wiped out all the alchemical dolls surrounding the hospital.


    "Lucas, Klee, I''m d you''re both safe..." Jean breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing them unharmed. But when she nced at the sea of mes around them, she frowned. "This level of explosion feels... oddly familiar."


    "Is... is that so?" Lucas stammered, a nervous expression crossing his face.


    After all, both he and Klee had once been Jean''s top targets. Her familiarity with Klee''s explosives, second only to Albedo and Sucrose, made it hard for her not to notice something.


    "Klee... Klee doesn''t know what you''re talking about..."


    Klee instinctively took a step back, a little fearful. Just then, there was a light "ding." A dormant Jumpty Dumpty slid out of her backpack, rolling across the ground until it stopped at Jean''s feet.


    "What''s this..." Jean picked up the bomb, her face showing a trace of surprise.


    There was no mistaking it¡ªthis was the signature weapon of the "Evil Sun," a criminal who had once given her endless headaches.


    The atmosphere grew tense.


    Jean wasn''t naive. The moment she saw the bomb, everything clicked into ce.


    "So, it''s like that..." Jean gave the two aplicated look but then asked, "Does Alice know about this?"


    "No, she doesn''t," Lucas sighed. "And yes, as you''ve guessed, I... am the Evil Sun. But Klee, she knows nothing about any of this."


    Since he was already a dying man, taking the me for Klee seemed insignificant.


    "What are you talking about?" Jean suddenly shoved the Jumpty Dumpty back into Klee''s hands and said calmly, "It''s just a cute little toy. Here, take it back."


    "Huh?"


    Klee, still confused, cautiously epted the bomb.


    "Klee, go check on Alice," Jean said, patting her head with a smile. "I need to have a talk with your dad."


    "Is Captain Jean going to take Dad away?" Klee asked, a rare hint of sadness in her voice. "It''s all my fault... I won''t do it again..."


    "Klee, go on," Lucas said gently. "Don''t worry, nothing''s going to happen to Daddy."


    After Klee left, Jean''s expression turned serious as she addressed Lucas. "I need an exnation for all of this."


    Knowing there was no point in hiding anymore, Lucas exined what had happened between him and Klee over the years, mixing truth with lies.


    "That''s my confession," Lucas finished with a bitter smile. "Whatever punishment I deserve, let me bear it alone."


    "You''vemitted serious crimes, no doubt. And Klee''s involvement... well, that''splicity," Jean paused before continuing. "But considering your years of service to Mondstadt and your role in protecting it today, I''m willing to offer some leniency. I''ll dock ten years of your wages as punishment."


    "Wait, wait... isn''t that a bit like abuse of authority?" Lucas couldn''t help but retort.


    "You''ve got plenty of money anyway," Jean said with a rare smile. "Ten years of service to Mondstadt seems a fair way to atone for your sins."


    Jean knew deep down she couldn''t truly punish Lucas. His wife was Alice, after all. If she publicly sentenced him to a long prison term, Alice would likely blow Mondstadt to smithereens and then take her family and vanish, holding a grudge against the city forever.


    "It''s certainly lenient, but unfortunately..." Lucas''s voice faltered, his steps bing unsteady. "I don''t think I have that much time left."


    As he spoke, Lucas''s body gave out, copsing into Jean''s arms.


    His heart, which had been beating erratically, finally gave in under the immense pressure and began to fail.


    His skin started to disintegrate into fine dust, blending with the floating ashes created by the mes around them.


    He was burnt out... turning to pure white ash.


    ''Too bad I couldn''t see Alice onest time...''


    ....


    Just as Lucas braced for the system''s notification signaling the end of the simtion, time within the simtor elerated rapidly.


    When he opened his eyes again, he wasn''t in the real world but in a hospital room.


    Standing by his bedside was a green-haired, golden-eyed girl wearing sses, staring at him silently, like a statue.


    "Sucrose?" Lucas eximed in shock. "Are you alive again?"


    "Correction," Sucrose''s voice took on a mechanical tone. "This model is Sucrose Mk-75 Isomorphic Version 2. The subject has awakened. Core synchronization is at 72%. No fatal errors detected. Vital signs are stable. In short, you have been revived."


    It was then that Lucas noticed Sucrose looked much younger than he remembered¡ªshe appeared to be around seventeen or eighteen years old.


    "Dad!"


    At that moment, the door to the room burst open, and Klee and Alice rushed inside.


    "You...!" Alice''s expression was dark as she spoke. "You hid something this important from me."


    "You''ve... figured it out?" Lucas asked weakly, his face downcast. "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to deceive you."


    Of course Alice had figured it out. She had every right to be angry, maybe even to leave him.


    "This is serious!" Alice crossed her arms, pouting angrily. "You didn''t tell me that Sucrose was an alchemical doll! Do you have some kind of strange hobby or something?"


    "Huh?"


    Wait, <i>this</i> is what she was concerned about?


    Lucas hadn''t caught on yet, but Sucrose remained expressionless as she exined, "My creator designed me solely to assist with alchemy and manage the shop. I have never been used for anything dirty or improper."


    Hey! That exnation is just making things sound worse!


    "Is that so?" Alice gently cracked her knuckles and smiled. "Since you''re still recovering from your injuries, I''ll hold off on punishing you for now."


    "Sucrose, but haven''t you..." Lucas was still confused.


    ording to the Perfect Creation, he had continuously made new versions of Sucrose to deceive him, making it seem like she was growing.


    But weren''t all the discarded versions destroyed? Where did this Sucrosee from?


    "I was created by the original and share her memories and knowledge," Sucrose answered. "Upon the original''s destruction, I automatically activated."


    "But..." Lucas nced at his body. His skin still showed traces of the powdery disintegration, but the damage hadn''t worsened. "Shouldn''t I have exploded due to the bodily enhancements?"


    "I took the damaged core of the Perfect Creation and refined it, using it as material to craft an artificial heart for you," Sucrose exined. "It''s even healthier than your original heart. Additionally, the rest of your organs can be reced with alchemical ones if needed."


    "Biological alchemy has advanced that far?" Alice mused thoughtfully. "Maybe you should just rece his kidneys too¡ªthey mightst longer."


    "Eh?" Klee asked curiously, "Why would theyst longer?"


    Klee''s innocent question caused both Alice and Lucas to look a little embarrassed.


    "Allow me to exin," Sucrose began, her voice as neutral as ever, "Human experiments show that kidney function affects sexua¡ªmmph!"


    Alice hurriedly mped her hand over Sucrose''s mouth, flustered. "Let''s stop that discussion for now. Sucrose, Klee, why don''t you step outside? I have something I want to talk about with your dad alone."


    "Huh? Why does Klee have to leave again?" Klee pouted. "It was the same with Captain Jeanst time..."


    "Let''s go," Sucrose said calmly, taking Klee''s hand. "Some conversations aren''t for children."


    "But Sucrose-sis is a kid too now!" Klee protested, her little lips quivering. "She looks about the same age as me."


    Indeed, since the "Sucrose Mk-75 Isomorphic Version 2" was modeled after Sucrose''s younger self, she didn''t appear much older than Klee, who was now sixteen.


    In fact, Sucrose was even shorter than Klee, making her look more like the younger sister.


    Still, Klee was understanding enough. After a little grumbling, she left with Sucrose, though she made sure to say onest thing before leaving: "Mom and Dad, you better not fight!"


    Once Klee was gone, Alice''s smile instantly vanished.


    Lucas felt a deep sense of foreboding.


    "I didn''t spell things out earlier because I didn''t want Klee to worry," Alice said, cing a worn-out storybook in front of Lucas, her expressionplicated. "Was your n from the start to kidnap Klee and push her to seek revenge against me?"


    The storybook was none other than <i>The Hero Klee vs. the Demon King</i>. While Klee saw it as a simple fairy tale, Alice¡ªshrewd and perceptive¡ªhad quickly realized the secrets hidden within.


    "Yes," Lucas admitted, a dark look in his eyes. "Kidnapping Klee, letting her appear before you, marrying you... it was all part of my revenge n."


    "I don''t understand." Alice clenched her fists. "During my pregnancy, you had the perfect opportunity to strike. Why didn''t you?"


    "I don''t have the right to forgive you on behalf of my dead wife and child," Lucas sighed. "But Klee... she already lost one mother. I couldn''t let her lose another."


    "Klee can''t lose her mother, but our baby can''t grow up without a father either," Alice''s smile slowly returned. "Besides, this all started because of my own mistakes. So let''s spend the rest of our lives making up for it together."


    ---


    [Mission Complete]


    [Task Aplished: End Everything]


    [Reward Earned: S-Rank Item: Philosopher''s Stone]


    [Effect: When performing alchemy, this item can substitute for any alchemical material (as long as at least two materials are required). Can be used once per day.]


    These rewards don''t seem to be randomly distributed.


    Since the theme of this simtion was alchemy, he was given something rted to alchemy.


    However... He knows practically nothing about alchemy in the real world. If he wants to make full use of this item, he''ll have to learn.


    ---


    [Age 41: You expected elves to have longer pregnancies, but perhaps due to being half-human, Alice gave birth to a daughter after ten months. You named her Rnd, meaning "sun" in ancient Mondstadt Language.]


    [Age 42: Sucrose was right. After receiving your new "heart," your body became even healthier than before.]


    [Of course, this only made Alice more eager for you to get alchemical kidneys¡ªnot that she was dissatisfied with your current performance, but she simply wanted to ensure she could exhaust you every single day. ording to her, it was part of your "punishment."]


    [Age 43: Klee officially joined the Knights of Favonius and quickly rose through the ranks thanks to her outstanding abilities. She was soon honored with the title of "Spark Knight."]


    [However, due to her unpredictability and immense destructive power, people privately preferred to call her the "Fleeing Sun."]


    ---


    Author''s Note: We did not reach 800 yesterday... Now extra Chapter at 1200! Deal with it hmph!

 Chapter 107: Villain Simulator, Ch 106

    <h4>Chapter 107: Viin Simtor, Ch 106</h4>


    [Age 46: Your daughter Rnd awakened her Vision at the age of five. Unlike her older sister, however, her Vision was of the Hydro element.]


    ...


    [Age 50: You resigned from your position as Chief Alchemist of the Knights of Favonius, passing the title on to Sucrose.]


    [Age 51: After your retirement, you and Alice reopened a school together, once again taking in orphans and children from poor families.]


    [Age 52: Grand Master Varka passed away, and Jean officially took over as the Grand Master.]


    [Age 53: Through your coborative research with Sucrose, you were able to create alchemical dolls almost indistinguishable from humans. However, fearing the potential misuse of this technology, you decided to halt further research in this area.]


    [Age 54: Due to the slow aging process of elves, people often mistook you and Alice as father and daughter when you went out together. Alice would yfully call you "Daddy" and engage in various intimate gestures, always drawing curious nces from passersby.]


    [Of course, you didn''t let her have the upper hand all the time. When night fell and you returned to your room, Alice would call you "Daddy" even more frequently than during the day.]


    [Thanks to your alchemical heart, your physical strength and vitality remained at their peak for a long time, serving as an essential ''lubricant'' in your marriage.]


    ...


    [Age 56: If Klee inherited your talent for making explosives, then your second daughter Rnd undoubtedly inherited your skill in alchemy. By the age of 13, she had almost mastered all of your alchemical knowledge.]


    ...


    [Age 58: Klee, due to her elven heritage from Alice, aged very slowly. Even at the age of 30, she looked no different from a 16- or 17-year-old, which often caused confusion. New recruits of the Knights of Favonius would mistake her for a peer, something that frustrated Klee greatly.]


    ...


    [Age 60: Upon reaching adulthood, Rnd decided not to join the Knights of Favonius. Instead, she embarked on a journey across the seven nations, seeking to improve her alchemy and learn more about the craft.]


    ...


    [Age 63: The school you and Alice founded had already produced many talented individuals.]


    ...


    [Age 66: Jean officially retired from her position as Grand Master, and to everyone''s surprise, Klee was chosen as her sessor. However, given her merits and aplishments, it was a logical choice.]


    [Visually, of course, Klee was undoubtedly the youngest-looking Grand Master in the history of the Knights of Favonius.]


    [Age 67: With nothing to upy her time after retirement, Jean couldn''t sit idle. She decided to take up a position at your school, teaching swordsmanship.]


    ...


    [Age 70: Your second daughter Rnd sent a letter home, informing you that she had found a job in Inazuma. She was now working as an alchemical doll specialist for the Shogunate, overseeing the maintenance and care of these creations.]


    ...


    [Age 75: Your body had deteriorated significantly, and the alchemical heart you had been using started to malfunction frequently. Sucrose suggested recing it, but you refused. At the very least, you wanted to die as a human.]


    ...


    [Age 84: You reached the end of your life. As youy in bed, surrounded by your family and the students you had trained, you gazed upon your eternally youthful wife and daughters, feeling as though your entire life had been a fleeting dream. In Alice''s tearful eyes, you saw your own reflection before slowly closing your eyes for thest time.]


    [This life simtion has ended.]


    [Cause of death: Heart failure.]


    [Overall evaluation: In some sense, you could be considered a winner in life.]


    [Your reward has been issued and is avable for viewing.]


    [Please choose between two talents: "Alchemist (Purple)" or "Demolition Expert (Blue)" as your permanent skill.]


    Lucas naturally chose [Alchemist] for a simple reason. Without it, the [Philosopher''s Stone] he''d acquired earlier would have been nearly useless.


    When he opened his eyes, Lucas found himself back in Jean''s office.


    Even though he had returned to reality, it took him half a minute to mutter, "What was I doing before all this?"


    It wasn''t that Lucas had a bad memory. Although this simtion wasn''t as lengthy as thest one, he''d still lived through an entire life, and it took a moment to shake off the immersion from the previous character.


    [Friendly Reminder: You''ve resolved the trouble with Lawrence, acquired a cksmith shop, and are now preparing to report back to Grand Master Jean at the Knights of Favonius.]


    The system helpfully offered a reminder.


    "This feature''s not bad!" Lucas praised with a nod. "Keep it up next time, saves me from spacing out after leaving the simtor."


    However, Jean still hadn''t shown up, likely kept upte dealing with yesterday''s case.


    Well, since there was nothing urgent, Lucas decided to check out what rewards he''d received from the simtion.


    Honestly, even the rewards from within the simtion had been pretty good, but no one everined about having too many rewards, right?


    When he opened his inventory, to his surprise, he saw four A-rank loot boxes!


    "No way!" Lucas eximed. "You''re being this generous with rewards now?"


    [If you think it''s too much, I can always take them back.]


    "Don''t be like that!" Lucasughed. "I''llbine three A-rank boxes into one S-rank box, and open it all at once."


    [You''ve opened an A-rank box and received the item: "Rhinedottir''s Crucible."]


    [Rhinedottir''s Crucible]


    [Grade: A]


    [Effect: Any alchemical product made using this crucible will be enhanced by one grade.]


    [Description: A crucible once used by the great alchemist Rhinedottir, known as the ''Gold.'' Though not inherently special, it has gained extraordinary power from being used to create many great alchemical works.]


    Another alchemy-rted item, huh?


    "Wait a minute..." Lucas frowned, suddenly suspicious. "You didn''t swipe this from somewhere again, did you?"


    [What are you talking about? I''m a proper system, not some petty thief!]


    "Yeah, right," Lucas grumbled. "Last time, didn''t you grab ''Raiden Mai'' from the Raiden Shogun''s collection?"


    [As long as it isn''t discovered, it''s not a crime!]


    "I knew it..."


    Even though the system''s method of rewarding him seemed a little sketchy, since Rhinedottir had lived 500 years ago, taking her crucible probably wasn''t a big deal.


    [You''ve opened the S-rank box and received the item: "Hero Klee vs. the Demon King."]


    [Hero Klee vs. the Demon King]


    [Grade: S]


    [Exclusive to: Klee]


    [Effect: Only Klee can use this item. With Klee''s imagination, it might create unexpected miracles (This item can only be used by Klee. Giving it to her will significantly raise her affection for you).]


    [Description: A picture book detailing the adventures of Brave Klee. Filled with fantasy and whimsy, it is Klee''s most cherished treasure.]


    ---


    Author''s Note: Eh Stopining abt her name... It was quite ok.. probably

 Chapter 108: Villain Simulator, Ch 107

    <h4>Chapter 108: Viin Simtor, Ch 107</h4>


    "What''s going on?!" Lucas shouted in disbelief. "Why are the rewards I''m getting someone else''s gear? Isn''t this just another form of being cucked?"


    [Why are you guys so obsessed with this whole ''cuck'' thing? It''s like everything can somehow rte to that. You''re my host! Do you think I''d go out of my way to mess with you on purpose?]


    "Whoa, whoa, calm down..." Lucas quickly tried to ease the tension.


    [As a system, you can say I''m wed, but don''t you dare call me a cuckold! That''s where I draw the line! Kill all those ntr bastards!]


    As Lucas was busy bickering with the system, there was a sudden thump. Startled, Lucas nced over to find a small red object lying on the floor beside the couch. It looked like it had fallen from the sofa.


    Lucas clearly remembered that when he first entered Jean''s office, there hadn''t been anything like that. It must have snuck in while he was ''AFK'' during the simtion.


    "Hey..." Lucas muttered, feeling uneasy. "You didn''t give me any alerts while I was in the simtion? What if someone had attacked me?"


    [Do you think anyone would actually dare attack you here?]


    The system''s retort left Lucas speechless for a moment. After all, this was the office of the Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius. Anyone trying to attack here would need as much courage as someone attempting to assassinate the Raiden Shogun in her own castle.


    Even though Lucas had caused plenty of chaos in Mondstadt through the simtor, he was well aware of the Knights'' formidable strength.


    "Ugh..."


    The small red figure on the floor slowly stood up, rubbing its cheek from where it had smacked against the ground. "Ouch... Klee''s face hurts..."


    Klee?


    Sure enough, the red figure was none other than Klee!


    It seemed she had snuck into Jean''s office while Lucas was in the simtion and had fallen asleep on the sofa.


    Maybe it was because Lucas had spent so much time being Klee''s father in the simtion, but now, seeing her in real life made his heart swell with affection.


    "Are you okay?" Lucas quickly stepped forward, helping the little Klee up. He instinctively said, "How many times have I told you not to sleep on the couch? You''ll catch a cold..."


    Oh no...


    Lucas froze for a moment. He had subconsciously slipped into his ''fatherly'' role from the simtor.


    Luckily, Klee was just a little girl. Even if he slipped up, it probably wouldn''t matter too much.


    "Uh..."


    Klee looked up at Lucas, her alreadyrge red eyes widening even more. "Dad... Daddy!"


    Daddy?


    Lucas''s brain immediately short-circuited as Klee suddenly threw herself into his arms, nuzzling against his chest. "Ah, Klee''s been so lonely without Daddy! Klee missed you so much!"


    What the heck?


    Being Klee''s father was something that only happened in the simtion. Why was she calling him that in real life?


    Could it be that the events of the simtion were affecting reality?


    Wait, if that was true...


    A cold shiver ran down Lucas''s spine. If all those Genshin girls he had messed with in the simtions started showing up, knives in hand, he was done for.


    [Don''t worry, it''s just a technical adjustment.]


    [The simtor uses dreams as the activation method. Sometimes, it can affect the surrounding creatures during the simtion.]


    [Since Klee was nearby and sleeping while you were using the simtor, it probably influenced her dreams.]


    [Given that children''s minds are still developing, it''s not umon for them to confuse reality with dreams. This is totally understandable.]


    Lucas had to admit, the system''s exnation made a lot of sense.


    "Klee..." Lucas said awkwardly, "I''m actually not your dad..."


    "Eh?!"


    The smile on Klee''s face instantly vanished, reced by a heartbreaking expression, her eyes welling up with tears. "Daddy doesn''t want Klee anymore! Waaaah! Why? Klee''s been so good and obedient, but why doesn''t Daddy want Klee anymore?"


    Klee''s sobbing threw Lucas into a panic. If someone overheard and came in, how would he exin this? To an outsider, it would look like he was some creep forcing Klee to call him ''Daddy.''


    "No, no! I was just kidding!" Lucas quickly tried to soothe her. "Daddy would never not want Klee. You''re Daddy''s treasure!"


    Sure enough, Klee''s sobbing softened after Lucas''s words, though she still looked a bit hurt. "That joke wasn''t funny. Klee doesn''t like it!"


    "That''s my fault," Lucas sighed, rubbing Klee''s soft hair affectionately. "I won''t make that joke again."


    "So... did Daddye back to Mondstadt to see Klee?" she asked, wiping her tears.


    "Of course," Lucas replied, rolling with her narrative. "Has Klee been behaving well at the Knights of Favonius?"


    "Definitely! Klee''s been sooo good! I haven''t been put in solitary confinement for three whole days!" she said proudly, cing her hands on her hips. "Klee is amazing!"


    "Yes, yes... Klee is the best," Lucas said, ruffling her hair even more affectionately. Even though he wasn''t really Klee''s father, the paternal love he felt for her was undeniable.


    "So, where''s Klee''s present?" Klee extended her hand expectantly, looking up at Lucas with wide eyes. "Didn''t Daddy say he''d bring Klee a gift if she behaved?"


    "A present?" Lucas froze for a second.


    "No... no present?" Klee''s face immediately fell, her disappointment palpable. She tried to be brave, saying, "It''s okay. Daddy came back to see me, so Klee''s already really happy. I-it''s fine... even if there''s no present... it''s okay..."


    Despite her words, tears once again began to well up in her eyes.


    "Of course I did!"


    Lucas, thinking quickly, grabbed the book <i>Hero Klee vs. the Demon King</i> and handed it to Klee with a smile. "This is a picture book I made just for you, Klee."


    "Wow... Yay!"


    Klee''s face lit up with joy the moment she saw the book. She hugged it tightly to her chest, as if it were the most precious thing in the world. "I love it! Daddy is the best!"


    Saying that, Klee leaned in and gave Lucas a big, affectionate kiss on the cheek.


    At that very moment, the office door suddenly opened. To their surprise, Jean and Barbara walked in.


    The room froze instantly.


    From Jean and Barbara''s perspective, they saw Klee giving Lucas an affectionate kiss on his cheek.


    "What... what are you doing?!"


    Barbara, the first to react, already had a bias against Lucas due to the simtor incident. Seeing Klee act so close to him made her immediately assume the worst. She rushed over and snatched Klee into her arms, asking carefully, "Klee, did this guy do anything to you?"


    "Sister Barbara? Captain Jean?" Klee tilted her head and smiled brightly. "Daddy brought me a gift!"


    "Daddy?"


    Hearing that word, the other three in the room were left in stunned silence.


    An empty office, a cute young girl, and Klee calling him "Daddy" after an intimate moment? It was hard not to think something strange was going on.


    "Mr. Lucas..." Even Jean, who usually held a favorable view of him, now had a serious expression. "Can you exin what''s going on here?"


    What do I do, what do I do?


    Admit that I''m Klee''s father?


    No, I''m only in my twenties. I couldn''t have possibly had a child with Alice when I was just twelve or thirteen.


    Tell them it''s because of a dream?


    That''s too ridiculous! They''d never believe me!


    But Lucas, being quick-witted, immediately turned to Klee and said, "Klee, could you go outside for a bit? I need to have a talk with Jean and Barbara."


    "Ugh, more secrets you''re not telling me? That''s the third time..." Klee pouted, clearly displeased. "Fine, I''ll go look at my picture book, but you''d better finish talking soon!"


    With that, the little one skipped out of the room.


    "Alright," Barbara said, crossing her arms and frowning. "You''d better give us a good exnation. Otherwise, even if you''re an envoy from Liyue''s Qixing, we won''t let you off the hook easily."


    "Barbara, don''t be so rude," Jean, much calmer, said. "Mr. Lucas, I''m sure there''s a reason behind all of this, right?"


    "Exactly. In fact, I''m here on a mission from Senior Alice." Lucas put on his most serious face and lied with confidence. "I''m an alchemy enthusiast, and Alice stayed in Liyue for some time. During that period, I learned a lot about alchemy from her."


    "Alice isn''t exactly someone who makes friends easily," Barbara interjected, skeptical. "If you really know her, then you should know what she looks like and what kind of person she is."


    That question might stump most people, but it was no problem for Lucas. After all, in the simtor, he and Alice had lived like an old married couple.


    Lucas casually described Alice''s appearance and personality with incredible uracy¡ªdetails that even Jean and Barbara had never heard of.


    "Barbara, there''s no need for further doubt. He''s telling the truth," Jean said, believing Lucas''s words. However, she still had one more question. "But why does Klee call you ''Daddy''?"


    In truth, neither Jean nor Barbara knew who Alice''s husband was. However, they knew one thing for sure: Klee couldn''t have hatched from an egg. She had to have a father somewhere.


    "As I mentioned, this is a mission from Alice. She misses Klee but doesn''t have time to visit herself, so she asked me to go in her ce," Lucas continued smoothly, weaving his fabricated story. "It''s a long story: Klee''s father has always been absent, and when Senior Alice introduced me to Klee, she mistakenly thought I was her father. Even though Alice tried to correct her, Klee began calling me ''Daddy,'' and it seems she still hasn''t forgotten."


    "Wait a minute," Barbara said, still puzzled. "Are you suggesting that Klee thinks you''re her father?"


    "Yes," Lucas replied with an awkward chuckle. "Klee was a lonely child, so she started calling me her father. Plus, Alice gave me a gift to give Klee¡ªa picture book featuring Klee as the main character. That''s something I can''t fake, can I?."


    "I... I believe you," Jean finally nodded. "And I trust my judgment. You''re definitely not a bad person."


    After all, Lucas was the one who had risked his life to save someone he had only met once. A person like that couldn''t possibly be someone who would deceive a little girl.


    Moreover, his detailed knowledge of Alice and the thoughtful gift for Klee were solid evidence.


    "Hmph, since Sister... ahem, Captain Jean believes you, I''ll trust you for now too," Barbara reluctantly agreed. "We''ll just ask Alice herself when she returns."


    Ask Alice? I''ll be long gone by then!


    "Also, I have a small favor to ask," Lucas said, his voice steady. "To keep Klee from being upset, could you please help me maintain the role of her father for a while longer?"


    "Of course!"


    Jean patted Lucas on the shoulder, her expression softening with a rare look of admiration. "To go to such lengths for a girl you barely know... you really are a good person."


    Uh-oh...


    That scene made Barbara''s heart tighten with concern.


    In her mind, Lucas wasn''t supposed to be a good guy!


    "Hold on!" Barbara quickly stepped between Jean and Lucas, her eyes narrowing like a protective kitten. "Captain Jean, don''t just go trusting people so easily!"


    "You''re still not done talking?"


    Just then, Klee peeked back into the room, looking a little impatient. "Jean, Barbara, and Daddy, can you y games with me?"


    "Of course!" Lucas jumped at the opportunity to change the subject. "We can y whatever you want! Daddy will spend the whole day with you!"


    "Yay! Awesome!" Klee eximed as she jumped into Lucas''s arms once again, snuggling up to him. "Daddy, you''re the best!"


    Standing nearby, both Jean and Barbara couldn''t help but smile at the scene.


    Though Klee always appeared cheerful and full of energy, the reality was that she''d grown up without her parents, living independently within the Knights of Favonius. Jean had, on more than one asion, overheard the little girl quietly crying in her room.


    Now, being able to reunite with her "dad," must have been a source of great happiness for her.


    "Captain Jean and Sister Barbara, why don''t youe y with us too?" Klee raised the picture book in her hands, grinning. "This game needs four yers to y together!"


    "A game?" Barbara asked in confusion. "Isn''t that just a picture book? How can you y a game with it?"


    "Of course! Look!"


    Klee ced the book, <i>Hero Klee vs. the Demon King</i>, on Jean''s desk and opened it to the first page. To their amazement, the book transformed into a game board,plete with four ying pieces and two dice.


    Lucas blinked in surprise. He had assumed it was just an ordinary picture book, but now it seemed that, as an S-ss item, it might hold some hidden secrets.


    Jean and Barbara were both surprised as well, but knowing it was a gift from Alice to Klee, they realized it couldn''t possibly be an ordinary picture book.


    The four gathered around the table, examining the board. It depicted an ocean dotted with a few small inds, resembling a ssic board game like <i>Monopoly</i>. The dice determined the number of steps yers could move their pieces. From the starting point, yers would encounter unexpected events on certain spaces, and the first to reach the end would be the winner.


    Unlike games that required strategy, this one was almost entirely luck-based, making it perfect for children.


    "This looks like fun," Jean remarked with a curious smile. However, she soon sighed, "But I still have work to do this afternoon."


    At that, Barbara, and Klee turned toward her with pleading expressions.


    "Big sister..." Barbara said softly, "Look, Klee''s having so much fun today. Can''t you take a little break from work and y one round with us?"


    "I bet you''re the one who wants to y," Jean teased, seeing right through her sister''s intentions. Barbara stuck out her tongue yfully, caught in the act.


    "Captain Jean, Barbara''s right," Lucas chimed in. "One round won''t take that much time. Besides, you''ve been working so hard¡ªyou deserve a little break."


    "Alright, alright, just one round," Jean said,ughing. "But just one!"


    "Yay!" Klee cheered, her excitement bubbling over. "I want to go first!"


    Without waiting, Klee eagerly picked up the dice and tossed them onto the board, rolling a 2 and a 3.


    "Two plus three... uh... five!" Klee moved her red piece forward five spaces. "Klee''s moving five steps!"


    However, as soon as she picked up the piece, a bright light suddenly shone from the board, enveloping the four of them.


    Before they could even react, their bodies began to distort and transform, and the next moment, they were sucked into the board.


    ...


    When Lucas regained consciousness, he was stunned to find himself no longer in Jean''s office, but standing on a tropical ind.


    Beneath his feet was soft sand, above him a zing sun, and in the distance, the endless blue ocean stretched out. The cool sea breeze carried a salty, refreshing scent.


    "What the...?" Lucas muttered in confusion. "Is this some kind of simtion?"


    [No. This is the world inside the board game. Everything happening now is the result of the item''s effect and has nothing to do with the system.]


    Before Lucas could ask for more details, he heard the sound of footsteps on the sand. Turning around, he saw Jean, Barbara, and Klee standing behind him.


    "What... what is going on?" Jean, though startled, quickly regained herposure. "Could this be rted to the game we just started?"


    "Look!" Klee pointed to the sky excitedly. "There are words up there! They must be clues from Mom!"


    Sure enough, in the sky above, several lines of text had appeared.


    Unlike the system messages Lucas was used to, everyone could see these words.


    <i>Wee to Klee''s Brave Adventure!</i>


    <i>This game is called: Search for the Golden Apple Archipgo</i>


    <i>This is a game for the brave. Please note: Everything on the board will happen for real.</i>


    <i>The game will only end when a winner is dered.</i>


    <i>After the game, rewards will be given based on your final performance.</i>


    <i>Have fun and enjoy the adventure!</i>


    "Um... wee to Klee''s... I can''t read that," Klee said, tilting her head in confusion. "What do these words mean?"


    Due to her young age, Klee couldn''t read some of the moreplex words, lookingpletely puzzled.


    "It looks like this is part of the game too," Barbara exined. "In simple terms, once we finish the game, we should be able to leave."


    "As expected of Alice," Jean murmured, her face filled with admiration. "To create such a magical item..."


    To the other three, this was simply another one of Alice''s "spells." Given how powerful and mysterious Alice was, no matter how strange things became, Jean and Barbara seemed able to ept it without question.


    Lucas thought for a moment, deciding not to reveal the full truth to avoid unnecessary suspicion. After all, this was just a board game¡ªhow dangerous could it be?


    "Well then, let''s continue," Lucas said, patting Klee''s head. "Let''s see what happens on your space."


    Klee''s red piece hadnded on a space that bore a single line of text:


    <i>All yers must change into swimsuits.</i>


    Seeing the words on the board, the four of them exchanged puzzled nces.


    On this deserted ind, where were they supposed to find swimsuits?


    ---


    Author''s Note: Alice would be long gone by then? heh


    Well here your extra Chapter, you know the goal for next one :)

 Chapter 109: Villain Simulator, Ch 108

    <h4>Chapter 109: Viin Simtor, Ch 108</h4>


    As the four of them stood puzzled, Jean''s attire suddenly began to change. Her usual outfit seemed to morph, right before their eyes, into a swimsuit.


    "Huh?"


    Jean blinked in surprise, her cheeks beginning to flush. After all, her usual attire was her dignified, modest uniform; this swimsuit felt entirely improper for her.


    "Don''t look!"


    Barbara instantly threw herself in front of Jean, spreading her arms protectively, afraid her sister might be nced at by the man before them.


    Yet, in the next instant, Barbara''s priest robes also started transforming. In a matter of seconds, her familiar white dress turned into an adorable swimsuit.


    "This is strange... What''s going on?" Barbara murmured, examining the swimsuit. "I... it actually turned into a swimsuit."


    Jean sighed, studying herself. "Doesn''t this swimsuit look... odd on me?"


    "No way!" Barbara shook her head earnestly. "It looks beautiful on you, Sis!"


    Oddly enough, these swimsuits looked quite familiar¡ªthey resembled the "costume skins" from the popr game. However, unlike the conservative in-game designs, these versions had been strikingly altered, making them more daring.


    Jean''s swimsuit, for instance, nowcked the high neckline and had less fabric covering the front and back. Barbara''s was even more revealing, with her one-piece suit removed entirely, leaving only a ribbon-tied outeryer, making it look especially airy.


    The only thing unchanged for the sisters was the leg bands on their thighs.


    Barbara''s legs were slender, so the smallest leg band could barely stay in ce, while Jean''s were notably different. Years of training had left her legs muscr and toned, the leg band pressing into her skin and leaving faint marks¡ªa detail adding to its unique charm.


    "So that''s what it means?" Lucas said with a bit of surprise. "That''s... interesting."


    However, Jean and Barbara were both ring at him, their cheeks a deep shade of red, as if they''d just seen something terrifying.


    Just then, Klee''s voice broke the awkwardness. With a little hand over her eyes, she shouted, "Daddy, shame on you!"


    Lucas suddenly realized why¡ªhe, too, had been forcibly changed out of his clothes. Though he now wore beach shorts, the earlier scene was vividly imprinted in the sisters'' minds. And their thoughts were oddly in sync: <i>It''s exactly the same as the dream!</i>


    Klee, however, had avoided this embarrassing transformation. Her swimsuit had simply appeared on her, and the system even thoughtfully added a little duck floatie around her waist.


    A definite double standard.


    "Ahem..."


    Jean was the first to break the tension. "It seems like this is just part of the game''s rules. Such a straightforward approach... very much Alice''s style."


    "Well, since we''re here at the beach anyway, a swimsuit fits the mood better," Barbara admitted, ncing helplessly at her own rather bold swimsuit. "Though... this style really doesn''t suit me..."


    She couldn''t help but feel a little self-conscious, especially around the chest area, where things felt... emptier than usual.


    At this thought, Barbara nced enviously at Jean. Theparison was, unfortunately, painfully clear.


    Noticing her sister''s discouragement, Jean quickly encouraged her, "Barbara, you''re still young. You have plenty of room to grow."


    "Yeah, yeah!" Lucas chimed in with a nod, though his gaze had somehow drifted back to Jean.


    Men, after all, often preferred reaching higher peaks.


    "That''s enough from you!" Barbara huffed, grabbing the dice and tossing it in frustration. "Anyway, let''s just get on with it!"


    The dicended on three and six, moving Barbara''s piece forward nine spaces.


    The tile''s prompt read: <i>Stranded on an ind, stomach empty. Roll a four or seven to escape hunger.</i>


    "What''s this supposed to mean...?" Barbara had barely finished her sentence when her stomach suddenly emitted a loud, unmistakable growl.


    Flushing crimson, she hurried to cover her stomach. "It''s... It''s not true! I''m not hungry!"


    "No need to be embarrassed," Lucas said kindly. "Are you feeling hungry now?"


    Barbara nodded, her expression bewildered. "Yes, but... how? I just had lunch!"


    "It must be the game," Jean exined. "Until you roll a four or seven, it seems you''ll keep feeling hungry. But... forcing someone to feel hunger¡ªAlice really can do anything, can''t she?"


    Alice was certainly skilled, but the game itself had an almost omnipotent air to it. For cautious Jean, this kind of influence was naturally unsettling.


    "This isn''t the time to worry about that," Lucas urged. "Hunger is no joke, and who knows what could happen if it goes on. Let''s keep moving, alright? It''s my turn now."


    Lucas rolled the dice, and theynded on double ones.


    "Ha!" Barbara chuckled. "You rolled the lowest possible! Looks like you''re losing this round."


    "Actually, there''s amon rule in board games like this," Lucas said with a sly smile. "If you roll double ones, you get an extra turn."


    "Where''d you hear that?" Barbara protested. "You''re making that up!"


    "Why don''t we try it?" Lucas threw the dice again. "If it''s not allowed, the game should stop me."


    However, the game didn''t stop him. This time, Lucas rolled a four and a five, moving his piece forward and pulling far ahead of the others.


    "See? I was right." Lucas grinned, looking at the prompt on his new tile.


    <i>Before your next turn, you must perform a bad deed or miss a turn until you do.</i>


    Upon reading the mysterious message, the four of them exchanged puzzled nces.


    "Do something bad?" Lucas murmured, perplexed. "But what kind of bad thing, exactly?"


    "I know! I know!" Klee eximed.


    Excitedly, Klee pulled out a bouncing bomb and dered, "Captain Jean said that blowing up fish is a bad thing! Daddy, why don''t you blow up some fish too? It''s the biggest bad thing you could do!"


    In Klee''s innocent view, Captain Jean''s strict prohibition on "blowing up fish" had be the ultimate definition of bad deeds.


    "Klee! Didn''t you say you ran out of bombs for fishing?" Jean raised an eyebrow and scolded, "And yet here you are, hiding a secret stash! Once this game is over, you''re facing half a day of confinement."


    "Huh? That''s not fair!" Klee turned her puppy-dog eyes on Lucas, pleading, "Daddy, please help me out here!"


    "Well... Daddy can''t really do anything about it," Lucas shrugged with a wry smile, "After all, Captain Jean is the boss here. We have to listen to her."


    "Sigh... But it''s a special situation right now," Jean said with a resigned smile. "Just give it a try. Besides, since we''re in this strange world inside a gameboard, blowing up fish shouldn''t be a big problem."


    Lucas let out an awkward chuckle and epted the bomb from Klee. The bomb was only the size of his fist, so he figured it wouldn''t do too much damage.


    "Alright, Go Pokeball!"


    With a yful tilt of the newly manifested sunhat on his head, Lucas tossed the bomb into the sea.


    With a thunderous "boom," the once-tranquil sea erupted, sending waves several meters high. Fish of all shapes and sizes began surfacing, flung into the air by the st.


    An endless shower of fish rained down like a cascade. Overjoyed, Klee darted around, catching as many as she could. She''d blown up fish plenty of times before, but never had she seen a haul this big.


    But just then, a giant shadow loomed over Klee, cast by a colossal creature that had surfaced alongside the fish. It hurtled toward her, threatening to squash her t.


    Lucas leaped forward, snatching Klee into his arms and sidestepping just in time.


    As the massive creaturended with a resounding thud on the sand, Lucas and the others finally got a good look at it¡ªa ck-and-white, lumbering sea beast... it was a killer whale!


    "A fish! A huge fish!" Klee cried, her eyes sparkling with amazement as she rushed toward the massive creature. "Daddy, you''re amazing!"


    "Technically, it''s an orca," Lucas replied, scratching his chin. "But why would an orca be here in these coastal waters?"


    After all, they were in a "fantasy world." It wasn''t shocking to see an orca¡ªor even a tiger-striped sharke flying out of the water.


    "It''s huge..." muttered Barbara, her eyes zed over as she stared at the orca. "It looks... really delicious..."


    Affected by the gameboard''s strange power, Barbara seemed to be stuck in a state of perpetual hunger, eyeing everything as potential food.


    Orcas, often called the "pandas of the sea," were known for their friendly demeanor toward humans. This one, having been sted ashore, was still dazed, letting out pitiful "oooh-oooh" sounds as ity helplessly in front of them.


    "So, it''s an orca?" Klee gently patted the orca''s head and introduced herself politely, "Hello, Mr. Orca! My name''s Klee!"


    "If I were to kill it..." Lucas''s eyes flickered with a hint of mischief. "Would that count as doing something bad?"


    "No way!" Klee immediately stood protectively in front of the orca, waving her tiny fists. "You can''t hurt Mr. Orca!"


    "But orcas are living beings just like those fish," Lucas used the opportunity to teach her. "Why treat them differently?"


    "Because I like Mr. Orca!" Klee replied with an expression of pure certainty. "As for the other fish... well, I like eating them!"


    Indeed, children tend to think simply and directly. They don''t rely onplex logic but instead make decisions based on pure likes and dislikes.


    "Well then, let''s work together to send Mr. Orca back home."


    Lucas''s hand summoned arge sword¡ªa gift from E, known as the Song of Broken Pines.


    "Wait a second!" Jean gasped. "Isn''t that the Lawrence family heirloom?"


    "Yes, it is," Lucas nodded, confirming. "E loaned it to me for safekeeping."


    Jean''s gaze grewplicated. That sword was a precious family treasure that only the Lawrences could wield... Could it mean Lucas had be a part of the Lawrence family? Is he gonna marry E?!?


    Through her rose-colored lens, Jean saw Lucas as a talented, handsome young man who had single-handedly stepped into the Lawrence household to support E. It was only natural she''d admire him.


    However, the next scenepletely shattered Jean''s illusions. Lucas took the great sword and started using it like a shovel, digging a trench in the sand between the orca and the shore.


    If E were to see her family heirloom being used as a shovel, she''d probably do more than just hold a grudge.


    Lucas channeled his Cryo abilities, freezing seawater into a slick surface beneath the orca.


    Then, he and Klee worked together to push the giant orca along the icy path, finally sliding it back into the water.


    After all, this wasn''t some simtor where Lucas had to force himself to act like a viin.


    Besides,mitting a misdeed in front of Klee wasn''t something Lucas could bring himself to do.


    The orca, unaware it had been bombed out of the water, probably thought the humans on the shore had rescued it. It circled them in the water and yfully sprayed a few jets of water before reluctantly swimming off into the sea.


    "Goodbye, Mr. Orca!" Klee waved enthusiastically. "Don''t get caught again, okay?"


    Barbara, on the other hand, wore a disappointed expression, as if it wasn''t an orca swimming away but a prime cut of meat.


    "Alright, we''ll have to find another chance to do something bad," Lucas shrugged and said, "Captain Jean, it''s your turn."


    "Alright." Jean nodded, rolling the dice tond on a two and a three.


    She moved five spaces on the gameboard, and a new message appeared¡ª<i>The party shall scatter; only when reunited may you proceed.</i>


    "What''s that supposed to mean?" Lucas raised an eyebrow. "Did Kelsier design this game? Why is it so cryptic... wait, huh?"


    Lucas looked up, stunned to find that the three people who had been with him... had all disappeared!


    It was as though they''d vanished into thin air. Three living, breathing people¡ªgone without a trace.


    "Klee! Jean! Barbara!" Lucas called out, turning in circles as he shouted their names, but no answer came.


    The text on the game board had been clear: The party shall scatter; only when reunited may you proceed.


    So that''s what it meant¡ªthis effect separated them all. They''d have to regroup before the game could continue.


    The idea seemed absurd, yet, based on what had already happened, Lucas was almost certain that everything in this game¡ªthis "chessboard" world¡ªwas unfolding ording to the game''s own rules and will.


    For now, he had one task: find the others.


    If this was indeed a game, then there had to be a path topletion. Hispanions should have been scattered to random points across this ind, but finding them alone would be a daunting task.


    Then he heard a familiar cry: "Ar-ar-ar!"


    Turning toward the sound, he saw the orca he''d helped earlier. It had returned, bobbing in the water as if it wanted his attention. The creature faced eastward, nodding its head repeatedly in that direction as if signaling him to follow.


    Right¡ªLucas suddenly remembered that while orcas might not have a strong sense of smell, they had excellent vision. Perhaps this one had spotted something in the distance¡ªmaybe even his friends.


    "Are you saying they''re in that direction?" Lucas asked, taking a hopeful step toward the orca.


    "Ar-ar!" The orca nodded enthusiastically.

 Chapter 110: Villain Simulator, Ch 109

    <h4>Chapter 110: Viin Simtor, Ch 109</h4>


    The orca, however, showed no sign of leaving. Instead, it circled a few more times as if waiting for Lucas to approach.


    "Could it be..." Lucas ventured, testing the waters, "you want to give me a ride?"


    "Ar-ar!"


    The orca nodded eagerly.


    "Well, I won''t say no, then!" Lucas leaped onto its back. "I''m counting on you!"


    [Skill: Ride Anything Activated¡ªThis creature is now designated as a mount.]


    Only then did Lucas recall that he possessed this strange talent, allowing him to consider any creature weaker than himself as a "mount," which he could then control skillfully.


    [Please name this mount. Upon naming, a contract will be established.]


    "Hmm, a name... Since it''s an orca..." Lucas mused, "I''ll call you Oga!"


    "Ar-ar!" The orca seemed to like its new name very much.


    [Mount sessfully acquired.]


    [Oga]


    [Grade: B]


    [Species: Orca]


    [Skills: High-speed Swim, Charge, Killer Whale Punch]


    [Description: A highly intelligent orca with a friendly disposition toward humans.]


    What is this, a Pok¨¦mon temte?


    And why does an orca have a skill called "Killer Whale Punch"? You don''t even have fists!


    Before Lucas couldin, Oga took off, swiftly swimming toward the location he had indicated. Its speed even outpaced a regr yacht by a considerable margin.


    The ocean breeze brushed against Lucas''s face, bringing him a sense offort so pleasant that he couldn''t help but shout with excitement.


    As apex predators, orcas had few enemies in the wild. Thus, their journey was smooth, with almost no obstacles in their path.


    Sure enough, before long, Lucas spotted his first missingpanion.


    A young girl with golden pigtailsy sprawled on the beach, looking rather worse for wear. Her luck seemedcking; she must have been randomly transported to the ocean near the ind, where the waves eventually carried her to shore.


    "It''s Barbara!" Lucas called out, quickly signaling Oga to stop. He jumped onto the shore and turned to the orca. "Could you look for the other two for me? I''d appreciate it!"


    "Ar!" Oga gave an affirmative nod and dove back into the water.


    "Barbara! Barbara!"


    Lucas gently shook her shoulder. Her face was pale¡ªclearly, she had drowned.


    Without hesitating, he quickly untied the bow at the front of her swimsuit and began rhythmicpressions on her chest. After a few presses, Barbara spat out a mouthful of seawater and slowly regained consciousness.


    "Cough, cough..." Barbara hacked a few more times before she could speak. "What...happened?"


    "It''s the effect of the board¡ªwe were all split up," Lucas exined quickly. "I only managed to find you thanks to that orca."


    "How could this happen..." Barbara murmured, but her voice trailed off as she noticed a cool sensation at her chest. Looking down, she saw that the bow from her swimsuit was still hanging off Lucas''s arm.


    "Aah!"


    Barbara quickly covered her chest, her face flushed red. "You...what did you do to me?!"


    "Just CPR," Lucas replied calmly. "I only loosened your clothing to make sure your breathing wasn''t obstructed."


    Barbara, though embarrassed, was not unreasonable. Realizing that his actions were meant to save her, she lowered her head and extended a hand toward him, mumbling, "Anyway...please give it back."


    "Oh...right" Lucas realized what she meant and quickly returned the bow to her.


    "So..." Barbara, tying the bow back on, hesitated, then asked shyly, "Did you, um...touch anything?"


    "As you can see, the seawater didn''t magicallye out of your mouth on its own." Lucas didn''t hold back. "Rx, though¡ªI didn''t feel anything."


    His response was meant to reassure her, but to Barbara, it sounded almost like an insult.


    "Oh, sure, sure," she replied, unimpressed. "You guys must prefer girls like my older sister with a more...mature figure."


    "Not necessarily," Lucas replied, trying to sound thoughtful. "Everyone''s taste is different. Think about it like dumplings: some people like big pork buns, others go for char siu buns, and some even prefer... soup dumplings."


    "Is that so..." Barbara murmured, narrowing her eyes as she pondered this. Then she caught herself and red at him. "Wait¡ªwho are you calling a soup dumpling!?"


    "I never said you were a soup dumpling!" Lucas shot back immediately. "If I had to pick, you''re more like a soup bun that''s lost its filling."


    Barbara wasn''t exactly as "in" as he''d said; he was just teasing her for fun.


    Barbara stomped her foot, shouting, "Fine, a soup bun is one thing, but saying it lost its filling is just too much...grr!" But her angry retort was cut off by a loud rumble from her stomach.


    "See what happens when you keep talking about dumplings?" she muttered, clutching her stomach with a miserable look. "Now I''m even hungrier than before."


    The gnawing hunger Barbara felt wasn''t from an empty stomach; it was a deeper, spiritual hunger, gnawing at her to the point she could hardly stand. Her vision blurred, her knees buckling.


    "Careful!" Lucas quickly caught her, concern filling his eyes. "Are you alright?"


    "... So hungry..." Barbara murmured weakly. "Do you... have any food?"


    Food?


    Lucas nced down at his swimsuit-d self, helplessly shrugging. "Do I look like I''ve got any food on me?"


    "I feel like... I''m about to starve," Barbara whispered dreamily. "I think... I see myte grandma, standing on a bridge, waving me over with a spicy hot pot... Grandma, wait for me..."


    "Hey, let''s not go that way!" Lucas shook her gently, trying to snap her back to her senses. "And don''t burn yourself on that hot pot!"


    At this rate, finding her something to eat would be best. But where? Ah! The Serenitea Pot! There must be food stored there.


    Even if the Raiden Mai didn''t need to eat, surely the Hilichurls couldn''t go without food.


    However, just as he prepared to enter the Serenitea Pot, a message appeared in midair:


    [Leaving this realm is not allowed until the game isplete.]


    So, there''s a restriction? But that made sense. The Serenitea Pot was only A-rank, while this storybook was S-rank. It seemed the pot''s "permissions" couldn''t override thetter.


    "Oh no... can''t... hold on..."


    Suddenly, a surge of strength swept over him. Starving Barbara had managed to muster up astonishing power and knocked Lucas t on the sand, pinning him down.


    Human potential truly was limitless¡ª even gentle Barbara could pin him down when desperation kicked in.


    Drool trickled from Barbara''s lips,nding on Lucas''s chest.


    "So... hungry..."


    Her bangs cast a shadow over her eyes, but he could see a faint red glow shining through. "I... need food!"


    "W-Wait!" Lucas stammered. "Barbara, stay with me! Th-that..."


    ...


    "Mmm..."


    When Barbara opened her eyes again, she found herself standing in her favorite snack shop.


    A golden light cast a dreamlike glow over everything.


    And all around her were delicious, mouth-watering snacks.


    "Barbara?" Jean''s gentle voice drifted over. "You''ve been working so hardtely. Go on, pick out anything you''d like¡ª it''s on me."


    "Mm-hm!"


    Barbara nodded eagerly, reaching into the freezer and pulling out a bright red popsicle, her face lighting up. "I can''t believe it! A super-spicy cheese-filled ice cream bar! Sister, can I have this?"


    "Of course." Jean smiled. "You can have as many as you''d like."


    "Here I go!"


    Barbara tore open the wrapper and took a big lick. The fiery spice, mixed with the creamy cheese vor, was oddly satisfying.


    She took a nibble but found it surprisingly tough, so she could only gaze longingly at the cheese filling inside.


    "Sister..." Barbara pouted. "Why is this popsicle so hard? It seems like it''ll never melt."


    "It''s a new brand," Jean exined. "I think it''s called... Bell Rock. I heard you could hold it over a fire, and it still wouldn''t melt. It takes a while to get to the filling."


    "No problem! I''m determined to finish it!" With renewed resolve, Barbara bit down, giving it her all.


    After over twenty minutes of intense effort, she finally wore down the tough shell. The cheesy cream filling burst onto her tongue, rich and delicious.


    The vor was a bit strange but... unexpectedly good!


    Greedily finishing off the cheesy filling, Barbara reached for another treat, but the dream around her started spinning, the scene peeling apart.


    "No, wait! Sister! More ice cream! Don''t leave me!"


    ...


    With a start, Barbara sat up, her scream fading into the salty breeze.


    There were no snacks, no Jean, only the vast ocean and Lucas.


    "You''re... finally awake," Lucas said, looking somewhat drained. "Feeling any better?"


    "Weirdly enough..." Barbara touched her stomach, surprised. "I don''t feel as hungry anymore."


    "Yes... yes, that''s it!" Lucas quickly exined. "When you passed out, I gathered some oysters and mashed up the meat to feed you."


    Oysters?


    Barbara wrinkled her nose; no wonder her mouth tasted faintly of seafood.


    "Is that so?" Though she often had issues with Lucas, Barbara felt a deep gratitude for his continuous help. Nodding, she said, "Thank you."


    "No problem!" Lucas stood, though his steps were unsteady. "We''re all in this together now."


    "Are you okay?" As a deaconess, Barbara could see something was off about him. "You look a bit weak. Are you feeling alright?"


    Weak?


    Well, wasn''t that her fault?


    Did she think the "food" he fed her was really oyster juice?


    It had actually been sea cucumber.


    But Lucas wasn''t about to tell her the truth. She''d probably be mortified.


    "I''m fine," he replied, shaking his head. "I''ll just go gather some more food. After a break, let''s continue searching for Jean and Klee."


    "Hold on." Barbara stepped closer, cing her hands on his shoulders.


    A blue glow pulsed from her palms, and Lucas felt as if cool water was washing over him, refreshing him and vanquishing all the fatigue from his body.


    "Huh?"


    Before Lucas could say anything, Barbara frowned. "Odd... My healing feels... stronger than before?"


    Barbara possessed a "Hydro Vision."


    Among the seven elemental Visions, each had its own unique characteristics: Geo typically focused on defense, Anemo on speed, and Hydro, like Barbara''s, on healing.


    People who awakened Hydro Visions often dedicated their abilities to support and healing.


    Barbara was no exception. She had healed countless people suffering from wounds and illness, so she had a good grasp of her healing powers.


    Yet when she used her skill on Lucas just now, she clearly sensed a far more potent force welling up from within her than ever before.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Ooops.. Sorry forte Chapter


    Biker''s Fault... I mean WN''s fault

 Chapter 111: Villain Simulator, Ch 110

    <h4>Chapter 111: Viin Simtor, Ch 110</h4>


    "Maybe it''s because you''ve grown again, Barbara?" Lucas could only feign ignorance, unsure of what to make of it. "I think my body feels much lighter."


    "D-don''t get the wrong idea!" Barbara flushed and said, "I''m only helping you because I''m afraid you''ll run out of energy and can''t find food!"


    "Alright, alright," Lucas replied helplessly, "I''ll go get food now. You should rest a bit more."


    Watching Lucas''s figure retreat, Barbara suddenly felt a pang of guilt.


    Was it fair to judge someone''s character based on just a dream? Maybe that was a bit hasty.


    Well, I''ll apologize to him when he gets back.


    But barely a few minutes after he left, Barbara''s stomach growled with hunger again.


    Sigh, if only I could return to that dream and have another ice pop.


    Barbara smacked her lips as though savoring the taste from her dream. Unexpectedly, the lingering "oyster broth" vor in her mouth was delicious, making her mouth water slightly.


    "If it''s just oysters, I should be able to find some..." Thinking this, Barbara began searching along the shore for the non-existent oysters.


    ...


    Foraging on this ind was no easy task. It wasn''t that Lucas was unskilled, but edible items were truly hard to find.


    His only regret was not asking Oga to catch a few fish before sending him out to find others.


    Or he could''ve eaten those fish that Klee''s bombs sted onto shore earlier.


    After quite a while, all he managed to gather were a handful of small berries, about the size of cherries, which were mildly sweet and pleasant.


    Using his Cryo powers, Lucas fashioned a container to keep the berries fresh, knowing they''d taste even better chilled.


    When he returned to their rest spot, he found Barbara curled up under arge tree, looking exhausted. Upon seeing him with food, her eyes instantly lit up.


    "Hungry?" Lucas handed her the berries, "They''re just berries, but they should help with the hunger."


    Indeed, Barbara was famished to the point of weakness, struggling even to move.


    "Th-thank you!" She couldn''t waste time on formalities and quickly started eating. The berries were juicy and refreshing, and driven by hunger, she devoured several in a row.


    "Take it slow," Lucas advised as he picked up a berry and started eating as well.


    He wasn''t as hungry as Barbara, but he was still thirsty and tired. Oddly, these berries weren''t exceptionally tasty, but like snacking on mandarin oranges during the holidays, it was hard to stop once you started.


    ...


    Meanwhile, on the other side of the ind...


    "Blow them all up!"


    With Klee''s excited shout, an explosion sent waves cascading along the shore, scattering fish and shrimp across the sand.


    Unlike the other three adults, Klee was probably the happiest "yer" on the ind. For her, it was all just a big game.


    And better yet, due to the food shortage, Jean had given her permission to use bombs to fish for the first time!


    It was a rare opportunity, as unlikely as Lisa staying awake during a full shift or Bet going a day without bad luck.


    "Klee, even though I said you could bomb the fish..." came Jean''s exasperated voice, "don''t you think you overdid it a bit?"


    Indeed, the once smooth beach was now pockmarked with craters, with countless fish and shrimp left in Klee''s wake.


    Fortunately, this was an uninhabited beach, or else there''d surely be trouble.


    "Captain Jean, you''re back!" Klee stuck out her tongue with a mischievous grin. "Show me what yummy treats you brought!"


    Although Jean and Klee had been transported to different areas, the sounds of Klee''s explosions quickly helped Jean locate her.


    The two, like Lucas, decided to replenish their strength with some food before setting out to find the others.


    "I found some berries I''ve never seen before," Jean showed Klee her "loot" with a wry smile, "Sorry, this was all I could gather, but they taste fine."


    "Ah! We can''t eat those!" Klee shook her head, "Mom taught me about them before. These berries are called ''Temptation Fruits''¡ªthe more you eat, the more addicted you be, and they even mess with your mind!"


    "Really? I didn''t know such berries existed!" Jean quickly threw them away. "It''s no big deal; the fish we caught should be enough."


    It was more than enough¡ªlikely enough to feed the entire Knights of Favonius a seafood feast.


    With Klee''s Pyro Vision, grilling fish was effortless. As they enjoyed their meal, they chatted away.


    "Klee..." Jean asked, curiosity piqued, "Do you know how your mom and dad met?"


    But Klee, munching on her grilled fish, muttered, "Klee... doesn''t know."


    Jean pondered, "Then, what kind of person is your dad?"


    "Dad''s super amazing!" Klee said proudly, "We''ve blown up monsterirs, burned the demon king''s supplies, and defeated tons of his minions together!"


    The "crimes" Klee spoke of so excitedly were, of course,mitted within the simtor, but to her innocent mind, all those scenes of mischief were transformed into battles against a "demon king."


    In Klee''s memory, every story from that picture book had be "real."


    But hearing this, Jean couldn''t help but feel somewhat puzzled.


    After all, Klee had been brought to the Knights of Favonius at a very young age. Could it be that her Lucas had taken her on monster battles even before that?


    It sounded unlikely, but considering Lucas'' strength, perhaps such things weren''t entirely impossible. Maybe he was also just as remarkable from a young age.


    Jean sighed lightly, gently patting Klee''s head, "Having parents like that... Klee, it must be hard for you sometimes, right?"


    "Huh?"


    ...


    The scene shifts back to Lucas.


    "Haa... haa..."


    "This... this is so good!"


    Lucas and Barbara, who had been peacefully sharing berries earlier, now seemedpletely bewitched, greedily stuffing the crimson fruit from the chilled container into their mouths. They paid no mind to the red juice that dripped all over them.


    Though Lucas was down to just his swim trunks, he still wore the <strong>Ring of Maniption</strong> on his wrist, faintly glowing with a sinister orange light.


    It was a sign of "Gluttony''s" influence!


    Under the effect of the <strong>Temptation Fruit</strong>, the two of them seemed almost addicted, unable to stop themselves.


    Soon, only one berry remained in the box.


    As Barbara reached out to take it, Lucas was a step ahead, seizing thest berry along with the container.


    "G-give it to me!" Barbara''s eyes had lost their usual sparkle. Grabbing hold of Lucas, she pleaded, "Thest one... give it to me!"


    "No way!" The malevolent power of the Ring of Maniption surged, darkening Lucas''s thoughts. "I''m the one who found these berries, so I should get thest one, right?"


    "Give it to me!"


    Under the dual control of hunger and the berry''s addictive toxins, Barbara was almost entirely losing her grip on reason. She lunged at Lucas, trying to wrest the berry from him.


    But Lucas, learning from earlier, sidestepped, and Barbara stumbled onto the sand.


    Scarlet berry juice mingled with the golden sand, clinging to Barbara''s skin and sending a shiver through Lucas.


    The desire to... dominate herpletely surged within him.


    Just like in the simtor!


    A pink tint, symbolizing lust, began to glint on the bracelet.


    Barbara, now desperate and ravenous, suddenly knelt before Lucas, pleading, "P-please... just give it to me!"


    "Hey, Barbara," Lucas looked down at her with a smirk, "There''s no such thing as a free lunch. If you want this berry, you''ll have to pay the price."


    "What... what do you want?" Barbara quickly replied. "I''ll do anything!"


    Leaning down, Lucas lifted Barbara''s chin with his finger, whispering, "I want you."


    "Wh-what?" Some part of Barbara''s reason seemed to resurface.


    The meaning in his words was unmistakable.


    So, the fox had finally revealed his tail?


    "You remember, don''t you? I have tomit at least one bad deed to continue the game." He toyed with the berry in his hand, rolling it across his fingers. "This is my ''bad deed.''"


    Under normal circumstances, Barbara would never have agreed to such an outrageous demand.


    But this wasn''t a normal circumstance.


    The gnawing hunger in her belly and her desperation for the <strong>Temptation Fruit</strong> made her grip on reason begin to falter.


    "Don''t worry," Lucas''s voice was a devilish whisper. "This is a world of fantasy; whatever happens here is just a dream. Even if you let me have my way here, it won''t change anything in the real world."


    "Is... is that true?"


    Barbara couldn''t help but remember the "dream." Indeed, no matter how many times Lucas had toyed with her in that dream, she would still wake up her innocent, unblemished self, a deacon of the Church of Favonius.


    "Of course it''s true." Lucas held the berry against his tongue, rolling it around and making tempting sounds. "Look at this delicious berry... if you don''t decide soon, I''ll just eat it myself."


    "I... I understand!"


    Finally, desire overwhelmed reason. Barbara lowered her head in surrender. "If I can have that berry... I''ll do anything."


    "Don''t worry, I''ll make sure you get more than enough."


    A thought seemed to ur to Lucas. He nted the <strong>Temptation Fruit</strong> into the sand at his feet, and soon a seedling sprouted, growing with supernatural speed until it blossomed and bore fruit.


    In an instant, the branches wereden with bright red berries, their glossy skins glowing with an alluring sheen.


    "Let them fall."


    At Lucas''smand, the berries fell like raindrops, showering down on Barbara.


    "Berries... so many berries!"


    Barbara, like a miser hoarding treasure, grabbed the berries with both hands, devouring them one after another.


    Lucas could sense the effects of the berries after consuming a few. They had some influence on one''s mind but were harmless to the body.


    And while Barbara indulged in the sweet taste of the berries, Lucas, too, began to enjoy his own reward.


    The taste was a curious blend¡ªslightly tart, mildly sweet, with a hint of sea salt.


    <strong>[Bad Deed Complete, Restriction Lifted: You may proceed with the next action when it''s your turn]</strong>


    It seemed that even the game''s "Eye of Judgment" recognized Lucas''s actions as a bad deed.


    <strong>[Effect of "The First ss of Red Wine" activated, receiving a permanent 30% boost to Mental Attributes]</strong>


    <strong>....</strong>


    The dust settled.


    When Barbara opened her eyes, she felt as though she had woken from a strange dream.


    But the grains of sand on her body and the sticky residue of fruit juice still clinging to her skin reminded her that everything that had happened was all too real.


    She found herself lying under the shade of arge tree, resting on a bed of soft, cool palm leaves.


    As Barbara struggled to stand up, she noticed that the sharp pang of hunger in her belly had eased, though a lingering ache still made her frown slightly.


    She made her way toward the nearby ocean, but just as she''d taken a few steps, a familiar voice called out from behind her, "Barbara! What are you doing?"


    The voice was, of course, Lucas''s. He''d been keeping an eye on her nearby, and seeing her head toward the sea without a word had him worried. "Don''t tell me... you''re not thinking of doing something drastic, are you?"


    "I... I''m not that weak," Barbara replied, biting her lip. "I just wanted to... wash up."


    Of course, only Barbara herself understood exactly where she felt unclean.


    "But seawater has a high salt content¡ªit could cause infection, and it''ll sting on any wounds," Lucas reminded her gently. "I''ve already melted some ice into fresh water with the sunlight. You can use it to wash up instead."


    Barbara turned and, to her surprise, saw that Lucas had somehow rigged up arge bath from vines and wood. The water inside looked crystal-clear, sparkling in the sunlight.


    Without a word, Barbara stepped over to it, dipping her foot in first to test the temperature. The water was pleasantly warm under the sun''s rays. She said nothing more, slipping off her clothes and immersing herself in the soothing bath.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Well here extra Chapter :)


    Mommy Aliceing soon so yk what to do to get faster releases..

 Chapter 112: Villain Simulator, Ch 111

    <h4>Chapter 112: Viin Simtor, Ch 111</h4>


    "I... I''ll excuse myself," Lucas said, preparing to turn and leave.


    "Do you really think that''s necessary?" Barbara, surprisinglyposed, replied coolly, "You''ve been working hard all day too. Just stay and wash up together."


    After all, with everything that had already happened, avoiding each other now seemed a little redundant.


    Settling himself in the water, Lucas sighed. "About what happened earlier... I''m sorry."


    "It''s my own fault," Barbara replied tly, her expression unreadable. "I should''ve trusted my instincts. You''re a shameless scoundrel."


    "That''s a bit harsh, don''t you think?" Lucas responded, feeling slightly embarrassed. "Didn''t you notice that there might''ve been something... off about those berries?"


    "You''re right," Barbara nodded. "Based on my experience, that fruit likely affects one''s mental state. That''s why... we ended up doing what we did."


    "So...," Lucas asked cautiously, "does that mean you don''t hate me?"


    "I do hate you," Barbara shot him a sharp look but then sighed, "But what good would that do? It''s not like I could take you on in a fight."


    Oddly enough, despite her words, Barbara didn''t truly harbor deep resentment toward the man before her.


    Though the experience had been painful, there had also been a surprising sweetness to it, like the allure of those forbidden berries.


    Wait a second!


    Barbara, what are you even thinking?! You''re a priestess serving the gods¡ªhow could you let such worldly desires cloud your mind?


    "You could always tell Captain Jean," Lucas said offhandedly. "She''d definitely get justice for you if she knew¡ªwhoa!"


    Before he could finish, Barbara lunged forward, gripping his shoulders, her gaze icy and intense.


    "Promise me," Barbara said, her words slow and deliberate, "you won''t tell anyone about this. Especially not my sister!"


    "I-I promise," Lucas stammered, nodding repeatedly. "I swear, I won''t tell a soul."


    As expected, Barbara was keen on keeping the incident a secret, particrly from her beloved older sister. She couldn''t bear the thought of tarnishing her pure image in her sister''s eyes.


    "As for revenge," Barbara clenched her fists. "Someday, I''ll make you pay."


    "Do as you wish," Lucas replied, his tone softening. "But tell me... are you still in pain?"


    Hearing his words, Barbara''splex emotions crumbled, and tears began to roll down her cheeks.


    "You... you jerk!" she cried.


    She pummeled Lucas''s chest with her small fists, though her punchescked strength. In fact, they were almost soothing.


    After a while, her fatigue caught up with her, and Barbara slumped against him, sniffing and muttering, "If you''re going to y the viin, at least do it right. First, you''re awful to me, then you turn around and act all caring. Just... what am I supposed to do with you?!"


    In truth, Lucas''s personality was deeply conflicted. On one hand, he wanted to stay true to his kind nature. But on the other, the influence of the simtor''s darker persona and the <i>Ring of Maniption</i> often tempted him, making self-restraint difficult.


    This wasn''t a case of split personalities; both the benevolent and malevolent sides of Lucas were part of the same person. The shifts in his behavior, however, led to wildly different actions and consequences.


    Barbara cried for a while longer, eventually tiring herself out, until finally, she copsed against Lucas, her small, t stomach rumbling once more.


    "Are you hungry again?" Lucas asked. "Would you like me to gather some more berries?"


    "No berries!" Barbara''s refusal was resolute. "Just thinking about them makes me nauseous."


    "Then what would you like to eat?" Lucas asked patiently.


    "I want... that oyster broth you mentioned earlier." Barbara''s eyes sparkled as she recalled the taste she had only imagined, and she couldn''t help but drool slightly. "I couldn''t taste it properly while I was out of it, but it seemed delicious. I searched for so long but couldn''t find any."


    "Actually... there never was any oyster broth," Lucas admitted, his face reddening as he leaned in to whisper in Barbara''s ear. "It was actually..."


    "What?!" Barbara''s face immediately turned crimson. Instinctively, she wiped her mouth and mumbled, "So... it was that?"


    No wonder there had been a familiar smell.


    "So maybe you''d like something else?" Lucas suggested, trying to change the topic. "If you''re craving seafood, I could try to catch some fish."


    "No," Barbara narrowed her eyes, her tone firm. "I want oyster broth... and nothing else!"


    "I already told you, didn''t I?" Lucas spread his hands. "That oyster broth you''re asking for... it''s actually..."


    "No, you''re hiding it," Barbara insisted, her gaze fixed on him with an intensity driven by hunger that was eroding her sense of reason. "You''ve just buried it somewhere deep... but I''ll find every bit of it."


    "Wait..." Lucas''s expression shifted as he realized what she meant. "You''re not actually thinking¡ª"


    "Here I go!"


    Without waiting, Barbaraunched herself at him once more.


    This time, Lucas wasn''t able to dodge.


    And Barbara once again savored that "delicacy" she had dreamed about, something that took so much effort to finally taste.


    ...


    It was unclear how much time had passed before Barbara finally felt her appetite satisfied.


    As before, her hunger wasn''t physical; it was a psychological effect caused by the influence of the *<i>Temptation Fruit</i>, driving her to constantly crave sustenance. Now, with her appetite finally sated, the hunger faded, leaving her in peace.


    Lucas, however, wasn''t in such good shape. The energy he had only recently managed to recover was now nearly depleted once again.


    Indeed,mitting mischief had its price.


    Just then, a distinctive orca call echoed from afar, startling Lucas as he looked into the distance. Sure enough, the orca, Oga, was returning, and Lucas could make out two figures on its broad back.


    There was no doubt¡ªit was Klee and Jean!


    It seemed that Oga had found them and brought them back.


    "It''s Klee and Jean!" Lucas eximed excitedly. "They''re here!"


    "My sister''s here?" Barbara quickly dressed herself, but not without giving Lucas a pointed reminder. "Remember, not a word about what happened between us!"


    "Rx," Lucas said with a sigh. "Thest thing I want is to be on the receiving end of Jean''s de."


    Although, in truth, Jean likely wouldn''t be much of a match for Lucas now.


    "Thank you, Mr. Orca!"


    As Klee hopped off the orca''s back, she politely bowed to Oga, waving her little hand in farewell before turning around, jumping up to greet Lucas, andnding directly in his arms. "Daddy! Klee finally found you!"


    "Good girl," Lucas chuckled, ruffling her hair. "I wasn''t expecting you all to meet up too."


    "Yes, we ran into each other," Jean nodded to Lucas, her expression full of gratitude. "Thank you so much for looking after Barbara."


    "Don''t mention it." A small, teasing smile tugged at the corners of Lucas''s mouth. "Barbara and I... well, we''ve been helping each other a lot."


    "Well, as long as nothing happened." Jean''s expression suddenly became one of concern as she turned to Barbara. "By the way, Barbara, are you still hungry? Should I ask Klee to st some fish for you?"


    That Jean would volunteer to let Klee use bombs showed just how much she cared for her little sister.


    "No, no, I''m fine." Barbara shook her head. "I... I just ate something."


    "What did you eat?" Jean asked with a meticulous care. "Was it safe? Are you feeling okay?"


    Barbara nced over at Lucas, her cheeks flushed. "It was... perfectly clean. Lucas made it for me himself."


    In a way, it was true. Lucas had provided it, but perhaps not with his hands, exactly.


    "Thank you again." Jean nodded in appreciation. "You really are a good person!"


    Hearing this, Lucas and Barbara exchanged aplex look.


    If Jean knew the truth... well, the oue would be unimaginable.


    "Enough chatting!" Klee interrupted, bouncing on her feet with impatience. "Aren''t we still supposed to be ying? We''ve barely covered any ground so far!"


    True enough. Even now, they''d barely taken a few turns each, and their pieces on the game board still had a long way to go before reaching the end.


    "Klee''s right," Lucas agreed, nodding. "Now that all four of us are together again, it''s time to keep moving in this game."


    "If I remember correctly, it''s Klee''s turn," Jean said. "The order goes Klee, Barbara, Lucas, and then me."


    Jean didn''t seem to notice that when she said "Lucas," Barbara''s gaze had shifted, her expression subtly tinged with surprise.


    When did her sister start addressing him so informally?


    But Klee''s enthusiastic voice broke Barbara''s thoughts.


    "Klee''s going to roll a high number!"


    With a toss, the dice came up as a two and a six, allowing Klee''s game piece to advance by eight spaces.


    The other three eagerly leaned over to read the text on the square Klee''s piece hadnded on.


    <i>"Age Swap Fun: Until someone rolls a one."</i>


    "Age swap?" the three said in unison.


    "That''s pretty straightforward," Lucas mused, rubbing his chin. "It means our ages will be swapped, but... hey, why do you all suddenly look so tall?"


    In that moment, Lucas realized that the other three hadn''t actually grown taller at all.


    No... he had shrunk!


    Not only that, but his voice now had a high, childish tone to it.


    "Wow! Daddy''s so cute!" "Klee" eximed as she picked Lucas up, beaming. "Up you go!"


    The reason for the quotation marks around "Klee" was that her appearance had changed dramatically¡ªnow she looked to be around eighteen or neen years old.


    And as for Lucas, his height had shrunk to match Klee''s usual size¡ªhe was now the same age as her!


    "So this is what a grown-up Klee looks like?" Jean marveled, looking her over. "She looks just like her mother, Alice."


    Jean herself had also turned into a child, though her mature speech and expressions made for an oddly contrasting appearance.


    "Sister, look!" Barbara suddenly puffed out her chest with excitement. "It''s... incredible!"


    Barbara, who had transformed from a young girl into a woman in her early twenties, now possessed a more... impressive figure than her sister Jean, perhaps even surpassing her.


    Jean, meanwhile, now looked as small and adorable as a young child, her once refined face now round and cherubic.


    Lucas quickly pieced it together: he and Jean had both be Klee''s age, while Klee had taken on Jean''s age, and Barbara had assumed his.


    Looking down at his short, childlike form, Lucas couldn''t help but feel utterly defeated.


    This game was ying a joke... and it was way too big!


    "They can even change our ages like this?" Jean muttered, looking down at her now child-sized body. She seemed slightly unsettled. "What if we encounter danger? Can I really protect everyone like this?"


    Unlike Barbara and Klee, who were thrilled by the novelty, Jean, everposed, immediately thought about their safety.


    "Don''t worry, Sister!" Barbara appeared behind Jean, suddenly lifting her up with a grin. "If there''s any danger, I''ll protect you... And besides, Sister, you look way too adorable like this!"


    "N-no... not like this!" Jean''s face flushed red as she struggled to free herself from Barbara''s embrace. However, with her strength significantly reduced, she couldn''t quite match Barbara''s now adult-level strength. "Barbara, p-put me down!"


    "No way!" Barbara giggled, rubbing her cheek against Jean''s. "You''re officially the cutest sister in the world!"


    "That''s not true!" Not to be outdone, Klee hoisted Lucas up to face Barbara. "Daddy''s the cutest!"


    "No, Sister''s cuter!"


    "No, Daddy''s cuter!"


    Watching these two oversized "kids" arguing over something so trivial, Lucas and Jean exchanged looks and shared a sigh of exasperation, each with a small smile.


    "Alright, alright... enough with the arguing," Jean said, sighing. "Let''s get back to the game. We can only return to normal if someone rolls a one."


    "Aww... no!"


    ---

 Chapter 113: Villain Simulator, Ch 112

    <h4>Chapter 113: Viin Simtor, Ch 112</h4>


    "Come on, let''s wait a little longer!" Barbara and Klee chimed in unison, both looking slightly reluctant to continue the game right away.


    For Barbara and Klee, experiencing the feeling of being an adult was amusing and fun; naturally, they wanted to enjoy it for as long as possible.


    Especially Barbara¡ªshe found herself thinking that, as her sister Jean had suggested, maybe she was only a few years away from growing into quite a nice figure herself.


    With this thought, Barbara couldn''t resist ncing over at Lucas, even puffing out her chest a bit in an unspoken show of pride.


    Lucas could only groan inwardly, watching with exasperation as a few metaphorical ck lines appeared over his head.


    What on earth is this woman trying to show off?


    "So, what do you think?" Barbara crouched down to Lucas''s eye level, patting his head with a smug look. "I''m all grown up now... but you''ve shrunk, haven''t you?"


    Clearly, Barbara''s mention of growing and shrinking wasn''t just about their ages.


    "Sorry to disappoint you," Lucas shot back, "but I checked myself earlier¡ªonly the age has changed. Everything else... is still the same."


    "Th-that can''t be!" Barbara blushed slightly, her gaze flicking downward as she muttered, "That''s... impossible!"


    "Please, since when has <i>anything</i> happening here been logical?" Lucas countered. "If you''re that doubtful, feel free to look for yourself."


    "Wh-who would want to look at something like that?!" Barbara shot him an indignant re. "Little earthworm!"


    "Leaky dumpling," Lucas retorted, sticking his tongue out at her.


    "Dumplings? Where?" Klee suddenly popped over, her curiosity piqued. "Klee wants some dumplings too!"


    "There aren''t any dumplings," Barbara said with a victorious grin, "but there''s a nice big bun right here!"


    Right on cue, a loud rumbling sound came from Barbara''s stomach.


    "Barbara..." Jean asked with concern, "are you hungry again?"


    "Y-yes," Barbara replied awkwardly, her expression ufortable. "Even though I already ate quite a bit."


    "It''s likely that this kind of hunger hits on a mental level," Lucas spected. "No amount of food will satisfy it. I''d suggest you roll the dice quickly. If you''re lucky, it might lift this hunger."


    Though Barbara was reluctant to leave her grown-up state behind, the persistent hunger gnawing at her was unbearable, and she had little choice but to continue the game.


    Fortunately, her luck held¡ªshe rolled a two and a five, totaling seven.


    Just as expected, the instant she rolled the number, the oppressive hunger that had gued Barbara for so long vanishedpletely.


    However, since she didn''t roll a one, all four of them remained in their altered states.


    <i>"Hard work takes its toll. Rest for half a day before continuing."</i>


    With the words appearing on the game board, their four tokens promptly tipped over as if they''d fallen asleep, and the dice''s pips disappeared, reced by a twelve-hour countdown.


    "It seems that we''re required to rest for half a day, or twelve hours, before we can continue," Lucas remarked, scratching his chin. "Looks like we''ll have to remain in these bodies until then."


    "Yay!"


    Unlike Lucas and Jean, Barbara and Klee seemed overjoyed at this news.


    By now, the sky was beginning to dim, and with the setting sun, the temperature was dropping. The cool breeze off the ocean made them shiver slightly in their swimsuits.


    "Ah-choo!"


    Klee couldn''t hold back a sneeze, and a little stream of snot began trickling from her nose.


    "Daddy..." Klee crouched down, her expression pitiful. "Klee''s got a runny nose."


    "Got it." Lucas gently wiped her nose with a leaf, then looked around, concerned. "Seems we''ll be spending the night here, so let''s prepare a ce to sleep."


    At this, the other three exchanged uncertain nces.


    "Klee only knows how to blow things up..." she admitted sheepishly, counting on her fingers. "Not build stuff."


    "I wish E were here," Jean added with a sigh. "As captain of the reconnaissance team, her survival skills in the wild far surpass mine."


    "Leave it to me," Lucas said, crouching down and pressing his hands into the ground.


    A soft glow radiated from the soil, wood, grass, and stones around them, all gathering andbining at a visible speed. Within minutes, the raw materials transformed into a sturdy shelter.


    "Amazing..." Jean murmured, watching in awe. "How did you do that?"


    Even a Vision typically controls a single element. It shouldn''t be possible to manipte both the Geo-like soil and the Dendro-like wood simultaneously.


    "Just a bit of alchemy," Lucas exined with a shrug. "It''s not elemental control¡ªjust a matter of equivalent exchange."


    Thanks to the <i>Alchemist</i> talent Lucas had recently acquired, he now possessed the theoretical knowledge of an alchemy expert.


    However, simr to his <i>Medical Sage</i> talent, the alchemy skills granted werergely theoretical. To be a true alchemist, he''d still need much hands-on practice to develop real expertise.


    A powerful alchemist could easily construct tall buildings with raw materials, but for Lucas, building a simple hut still required some time.


    "That''s right!" Klee said proudly. "Daddy is the head alchemist of the Knights of Favonius!"


    Lucas''s face changed instantly.


    Good grief¡ªthis girl was starting to mix up dreams with reality.


    "Oh, really?" Jean, however, didn''t seem the least bit surprised. She nodded with a smile. "That''s truly impressive."


    She yed along with little Klee, exchanging amused nces with Lucas.


    Jean found herself intrigued. Such a talented young man, not only strong but also highly skilled¡ªno wonder he was held in such high regard by Keqing. It would be wonderful if he could join the ranks of the Knights of Favonius.


    But, of course, she knew that trying to recruit someone favored by the Liyue Qixing would be... unwise.


    Lucas went on to build three additional small huts with his alchemy.


    Technically, just one or two would have sufficed, but Lucas wanted to take the chance to practice his skills. Since the materials were free, he figured he might as well build a few extra.


    After all, these simple structures didn''t require advanced techniques.


    "Let''s all get some rest tonight and regain our energy," Lucas suggested. "We don''t know what challenges tomorrow''s game might bring."


    "I''m sleeping with Daddy!" Klee dered without hesitation, grabbing Lucas and pulling him toward one of the huts.


    "No, you''re not!"


    Jean quickly intercepted Klee.


    "Why not?" Klee tilted her head in confusion. "I used to sleep with Daddy all the time."


    "That was when you were still a little kid. Now you''re an adult," Jean said, looking up at Klee due to her own childlike size. Seeing Klee''s adult physique, Jean couldn''t help but feel a bit strange. "Only children can sleep with adults!"


    "But it''s fine!" Klee cuddled Lucas close, rubbing her cheek against his affectionately. "Even if Klee''s a grown-up, Daddy is a child now, so it''s totally fine!"


    When she put it like that, it did make a sort of sense.


    "Sister, just let them sleep together," Barbara interjected with a mischievous smile, throwing a sidelong nce at Lucas. "After all, there''s no way Lucas could cause any trouble... in his current state."


    "F-fine, I suppose." Jean had no choice but to relent.


    "In that case... I''ll sleep with Sister!" Barbara said, scooping up Jean and grinning. "Tiny Sister is just too adorable!"


    "N-no! Don''t do that!" Jean stammered, embarrassed. "Put me down!"


    "Even cuter when she struggles!" Barbara had no intention of putting Jean down. Instead, with a sly smile, she dered, "This is a rare opportunity, so tonight, Barbara''s going to have some fun teasing her big sister!"


    With that, Barbara carried Jean into one of the huts, and soon Jean''s distressed voice could be heard from within.


    "Huh?" Klee looked worried. "Is Barbara going to bully Captain Jean? Let''s go help her!"


    "Don''t worry, Klee," Lucas replied with a chuckle. "When Barbara says ''bully,'' she really just means it as a way to show affection."


    "Really?" Klee looked at him with wide eyes. "So... can Daddy ''bully'' Klee too? Please?"


    Um... teasing between sisters was one thing, but with a father and daughter... it felt a bit odd.


    Though Lucas and Klee weren''t rted by blood, their bond as father and daughter was real and deep.


    Especially for Klee, who, being a child, had jumbled or forgotten many of the simtor''s memories. However, her image of Lucas as her father had taken deep root in her heart.


    "Daddy loves Klee very much, even without any ''bullying,''" Lucas assured her with a smile. "Let''s get some rest. How about Daddy tells you a story to fall asleep?"


    "Yay!" Klee''s face lit up with excitement. Even though she now looked like an adult, her heart remained that of a child. She nodded eagerly, "Klee wants a hundred stories!"


    Looks like sleep won''te any time soon...


    Though the hut was basic, it had doors, windows, and a bed of sorts, made from leaves and dried grass. It was simple, but surprisinglyfortable.


    Despite Klee''s initial insistence on hearing stories, she was clearly exhausted after the day''s activities. She fell asleep before Lucas even finished the first story, her grip on him tight as if afraid he''d disappear while she slept.


    Moonlight filtered in through the skylight, casting a soft glow on Klee''s peaceful face.


    Grown-up Klee looked strikingly like her mother, Alice. With her elf-like features and wlessplexion, she was like a living work of art.


    "Alice, where are you now?" Lucas murmured to himself, then chuckled wryly. "Not that it matters. Even if we did meet, she''d probably have no idea who I am."


    It wasn''t just Alice¡ªall the Genshin girls he''d encountered in the simtor wouldn''t remember him in reality.


    And yet, somehow, he had crossed paths with them in real life¡ªKeqing, Shenhe, Barbara, Jean, E, Klee...


    Was it mere coincidence, or was something greater at work?


    Just as Lucas pondered, a faint sound of footsteps came from outside the hut.


    "Who''s there?"


    Even though Lucas was currently in the body of a child, his alertness hadn''t diminished in the slightest.


    Realistically, no one besides their group of four should be on this ind, but Lucas quickly slipped out of Klee''s embrace and hurried to open the door.


    Standing outside, however, wasn''t a stranger, but... Captain Jean?


    The young Jean looked particrly conflicted, nervously tugging at the hem of her shirt, her face flushed with embarrassment.


    "Oh, it''s just you, Jean..." Lucas breathed a sigh of relief, then asked, "Why aren''t you asleep at this hour?"


    "I... I need to... pick a flower," Jean said, her cheeks turning even redder as she whispered, "But Barbara is sleeping so deeply. Could you... could you go with me?"


    "Pick a flower?" Lucas asked, confused. "Can''t it wait until tomorrow?"


    "N-no, not that kind of flower!" Jean''s blush deepened as she lowered her voice. "I mean... I need to go to the bathroom."


    It dawned on Lucas then. For someone like Jean, raised with noble etiquette, openly mentioning such things wasn''t an option, so she used "picking a flower" as a polite substitute.


    He hadn''t picked up on it, which exined Jean''s obvious embarrassment.


    Under normal circumstances, Jean wouldn''t be the timid type, but given her smaller, younger body and the unfamiliar, remote environment, it made sense she''d feel nervous going alone.


    "Alright," Lucas held out his hand, "I''ll go with you."


    Jean nodded, taking his small hand in hers. Both of them now appeared to be no older than ten, looking for all the world like childhood friends.


    For some reason, holding Lucas''s hand filled Jean with an inexplicable sense of security.


    It felt just like that dream she''d had¡ªas though, with Lucas by her side, any problem could be solved.


    "It''s so nostalgic..." Jean murmured thoughtfully. "When we were younger, I''d hold Barbara''s hand like this all the time. Back then, she cried easily... she was such a sweet little scaredy-cat."


    And now, it seemed, the scaredy-cat had be her.


    "I can tell," Lucas replied with a nod. "Barbara really looks up to you."


    "That''s why I''m so grateful to you," Jean''s eyes softened with appreciation. "For looking after Barbara when we were separated. Otherwise, she might have run into trouble."


    Hearing this, a wave of anxiety washed over Lucas.


    If Jean ever found out <i>how</i> he''d "looked after" Barbara... well, he might as well skip the trip back to Liyue and start nning his future in the dungeons of the Knights of Favonius.


    Quickly changing the subject, Lucas asked, "So, what exactly happened between you and Barbara? It doesn''t seem like many people know about your rtionship."


    Jean sighed. "It''s because our parents divorced," she replied, sounding weary. "They split due to irreconcble differences. My mother is a very headstrong woman, and after a serious dispute, she decided to part ways with my father. We sisters had no choice but to separate as well."


    "For the Gunnhildr n, a failed marriage is considered a disgrace," Jean continued. "That''s why the family chose to keep my rtionship with Barbara a secret."


    ---


    Author''s Note: Early Chapters... Will be travelling again for a day...


    Okay, let''s do this... If we get to the top 5 after the reset, I''ll post 5 extra Chapters when I get back home in 46 hrs.

 Chapter 114: Villain Simulator, Ch 113

    <h4>Chapter 114: Viin Simtor, Ch 113</h4>


    "I don''t see anything shameful about it," Lucas shook his head. "To break free from societal constraints and end a marriage she didn''t want¡ªyour mother sounds like a woman worthy of respect, Jean."


    Jean blinked in surprise before a small smile appeared on her face. "Thank you... No one''s ever said something like that to me."


    "Alright, this spot should be fine," Lucas gestured toward a nearby cluster of bushes. "Go ahead, I''ll wait here."


    Jean nodded, looking a bit bashful, before cautiously heading to the bushes and crouching down.


    "Are... are you still there?"


    "I''m here."


    "Still there?"


    "Don''t worry, I''ll stay right here until you''re done."


    After receiving his reassuring response, Jean finally rxed, and the gentle sound of trickling water filled the quiet night air, oddly calming in its rhythm.


    But suddenly, there was a loud, panicked "Ah!" as Jean bolted from the bushes, mid-process, her face pale with fright. Before Lucas could react, she threw herself into his arms, trembling.


    "S-something scary!"


    It was the first time Lucas had ever seen Jean so frightened. He could even feel a warm trickle running down her leg onto him.


    What on earth could have scared her so badly?


    "Ribbit!"


    Just then, a bumpy toad hopped out from the bushes.


    "T-take it away!" Jean shrieked, clinging to Lucas''s neck in terror. "Get rid of it!"


    Seeing the "culprit" that had terrified Jean so much, Lucas couldn''t help butugh a little. Summoning a small shard of ice, he flicked it gently, sending the toad soaring through the air in a graceful arc until it vanished.


    "No need to be afraid," Lucas said softly, patting Jean''s head. "It''s gone now."


    "Thank you."


    Jean finally rxed, releasing her grip on Lucas, but upon seeing the "mess" between them, her face flushed deep red. "I-I''m so sorry!"


    "It''s alright, we can dry it out by the fire," Lucas replied nonchntly. "Besides, it''s not like it smells or anything."


    "H-how could it not smell...?" Jean mumbled, nervously wringing her hands. "I mean... that''s..."


    "Come on!" Lucas grabbed her hand with a smile, leading her back. "I know what it is. And if it''s from you, Jean, I don''t mind at all."


    Jean felt a strange shiver run through her.


    He didn''t mind... something like that? And only if it was her?


    Could... could this be some kind of confession?


    Jean''s cheeks burned as an odd image popped into her mind.


    She imagined a luxurious room dimly lit with candles, Lucas dressed sharply in a suit, swirling a ss in his hand filled with a "special drink" she''d prepared for him.


    He reached out, lifting her chin with a charmingly wicked smile. "If it''s from you, Jean, I wouldn''t waste a single drop."


    Ahhh!


    The thought made Jean shake her head frantically, as if she could physically shake the bizarre vision from her mind.


    "How disgraceful! How impure!"


    As a member of the noble Gunnhildr family, Jean chided herself. <i>How could I harbor such impure thoughts?</i>


    "Jean?" Lucas, noticing her unusual silence, asked with concern, "Are you alright?"


    His voice snapped Jean out of her thoughts, and she blurted out instinctively, "You... can''t drink that!"


    "Huh? Drink what?" Lucas looked utterly confused.


    "N-nothing," Jean stammered, clearly flustered. "I was just... lost in thought, imagining myself... brewing tea."


    "Oh, so you know how to brew tea?" Lucas chuckled. "I''d love to try your tea sometime."


    "O-okay," Jean mumbled, nodding shyly. "My... tea?"


    Soon, they returned to the huts, where the fire Klee had set was still crackling away. They sat down by the mes, letting the fire''s warmth dry the mysterious dampness on their clothes.


    "Looks like it''s mostly dry," Lucas said softly. "We should get some rest."


    However, Jean didn''t respond. Lucas nced over and noticed her head resting on his shoulder, her soft breaths steady. She had drifted off.


    It looked like the day''s events had thoroughly worn her out.


    Asleep, Jean''s usual serious demeanor was reced with a peaceful, innocent expression, making her seem even more endearing. Unable to resist, Lucas leaned over and gently kissed her on the cheek.


    "Mm..." Jean made a soft sound, shifting slightly, but she didn''t wake up.


    What Lucas didn''t realize was that Jean hadn''t actually fallen into a deep sleep. She was very aware of his gentle kiss.


    Caught off guard, she chose to feign sleep, too nervous to open her eyes.


    Lucas, for his part, refrained from any further actions. Jean felt a mix of relief¡ªand a strange twinge of disappointment.


    Of course, given their current child-sized bodies, nothing more could have happened anyway.


    Despite his smaller size, Lucas still possessed strength well beyond a typical child''s, and he easily lifted Jean up, carrying her back to the hut she shared with Barbara.


    He tiptoed inside, careful not to wake Barbara, and gentlyid the "sleeping" Jean on her bed before quietly slipping out.


    Jean, meanwhile, kept her eyes tightly shut to maintain her ruse, but her heart was racing from that single kiss.


    She was so absorbed in her thoughts that she didn''t even notice Barbara was missing from her side.


    Just as Lucas exited the hut, he sensed something unusual. He looked up just in time to see arge water bubble descending from above, enveloping him entirely.


    This water prison didn''t burst but instead trapped Lucas within a floating sphere of water.


    It was obvious who was responsible¡ªBarbara.


    Sure enough, she stood in front of him, arms crossed, giving him a stern look. "Quite bold, aren''t you... Doing those things to me was one thing, but now you''re moving on to my sister?"


    Lucas blinked, finally realizing what was going on.


    Barbara must have seen him kiss Jean earlier and was furious because of it.


    Normally, Barbara wasn''t particrly skilled inbat, and though she had a Hydro Vision, she couldn''t control water with such precision. But with her adult physique, and after taking Lucas'' Essence which enhanced her more, her power had increased dramatically¡ªproducing a water bubble was no problem for her now.


    Conversely, Lucas''s power had diminished due to his smaller body, making it easy for Barbara to catch him off guard.


    Of course, Barbara had no intention of actually harming him. She just wanted to teach him a lesson.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t hurt you," Barbara said with a mischievous smile, watching him struggle. "I just want to... punish you a little."


    Gradually, Lucas began to lose consciousness as the water surrounded him.


    ...


    <i>Cough, cough!</i>


    Lucas sputtered, coughing up water as he finally regained consciousness.


    He quickly realized that his hands were bound with rope, and he was in one of the other huts.


    He saw Barbara standing in front of him, smiling calmly. "Don''t bother shouting," she said. "Even if you scream your lungs out, no one can hear you. I''ve sealed the doors and windows with water barriers."


    Lucas nced around and saw shimmering water walls covering every exit.


    "Barbara," he frowned. "What exactly are you nning to do?"


    "That''s my question to you," Barbara retorted, biting her lip. "Why were you and my sister alone together in the middle of the night?"


    "She just needed someone to go to the bathroom with her," Lucas exined. "After bing a child again, she''s a lot more timid."


    "Fine, I can ept that," Barbara pressed on, her eyes narrowing. "But I saw you... kiss her just now! What was that all about?"


    "Well..." Lucasughed awkwardly. "Little Jean is just so cute, you know? It''s natural to want to give a cute kid a kiss, isn''t it? Wouldn''t you feel the same?"


    "I... I''ve already done that," Barbara blushed, then pouted angrily. "But that doesn''t matter! My sister''s cheeks are mine to kiss!"


    "Fine, fine, I admit my mistake," Lucas sighed. "But isn''t your reaction a bit... intense?"


    "Do you really think I''m only upset about that?" Barbara stepped closer, her gaze piercing. "After what you did to me, you turn around and start cozying up to my sister. Don''t you think that''s a bit... scummy?"


    "Heavens, have mercy!" Lucas eximed, feeling helpless. "When did I ever ''cozy up'' to her?"


    "I don''t care¡ªyou''re a bad boy!" Barbara reached out, giving him a yful tap on the nose as a mischievous grin spread across her face. "And bad boys need to be punished!"


    Lucas suddenly remembered that, after his earlier "mischief" with Barbara, she''d repeatedly muttered about getting revenge on him.


    At the time, he''d brushed it off as harmless talk¡ªmuch like E''s frequent "I''ll remember this" grudge. He''d assumed it was just idle words, nothing more.


    But to his surprise, Barbara¡ªwho seemed far less intimidating than E¡ªwas actually serious about taking action.


    He hadn''t thought much of it. After all, with Barbara''s usual strength, any attempt to "punish" him would beughable. Even if he stood still, it would be hard for her to do much more than il at him.


    "Well..." Seeing no hope for escape, Lucas resigned himself. "If you want revenge, go ahead and get it over with. I guess I just have bad luck."


    "What?" Barbara looked unimpressed with his calm eptance. "You''re giving up that easily? At least beg for mercy or something!"


    "You''d ignore my pleas anyway, wouldn''t you?" Lucas replied with a knowing smile. "Besides, I''d suggest you hurry up¡ªonce the others wake up, you won''t get another chance."


    How annoying!


    Barbara clenched her fists in frustration. Why was it that, even with the upper hand, Lucas still seemed soposed?


    "Fine, straight to the point, then!"


    With a determined expression, Barbara sat down on a nearby rock, pulling Lucas''s face close to her. She straddled him with her thighs, bringing her face close to his as she smirked. "So, you think you''re invincible, huh? How does it feel now?"


    Despite the supposed "punishment," Lucas felt more amused than anything.


    Did she really understand the difference between "punishment" and "reward"?


    If this was her idea of vengeance, he might just start doing bad deeds as a full-time hobby.


    To humor her, Lucas put on a pained expression, groaning dramatically, "No, please... this is too much! This humiliation... you might as well just kill me!"


    Seeing his reaction, Barbara beamed with satisfaction. "Oh, it''s not that easy to get off the hook. You''ll endure this for as long as I say!"


    Determined to press him further, Barbara leaned in close, her face just inches from his. She smirked, tightening her hold, adding just enough pressure to assert her dominance.


    As time went on, however, it was clear that Lucas was enjoying himself far more than suffering, while Barbara¡ªunused to holding such a position¡ªbegan to feel an ache in her thighs. Despite the strain, seeing Lucas''s "anguished" expression only fueled her motivation, making it all seem worthwhile.


    Looking down at his face, Barbara felt a surprising pang of guilt. Lucas''s shrunken form,bined with his delicate features, made him seem almost endearing in his "humiliated" state.


    "Didn''t expect this, did you?" Barbara taunted, though her mocking tone softened as she struggled to keep a straight face. "Looks like it''s finally your turn to suffer!"


    "Alright, I''ll admit defeat..." Lucas said, barely hiding a grin. "You''ve punished me enough. Now, can you let me go?"


    "Let you go? Not so fast!" Barbara pped her hands together with satisfaction. "That was only the appetizer. Now... it''s time for the main course."


    Barbara leaned close, her lips brushing his ear as she whispered, "You mentioned that only your age changed, right? That the rest of you... is still the same?"


    "Uh... yeah," Lucas replied, frowning slightly. "Why do you ask?"


    ---


    Author''s Note: I don''t see us in top 5.. guess you guys really don''t want those extra Chapters ????

 Chapter 115: Villain Simulator, Ch 114

    <h4>Chapter 115: Viin Simtor, Ch 114</h4>


    Barbara''s fingers pressed down on Lucas''s chest, slowly sliding south as she smiled. "I just want to see... if what you said is true."


    "Barbara, don''t!" Lucas struggled, attempting to push her back with his foot, but Barbara swiftly caught his ankle.


    "Be good," Barbara murmured, undoing a small bow on his clothes with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Let me take a look!"


    "No!" Lucas protested, trying to push her away with his other foot, giving her a gentle kick to the stomach.


    Instead of backing off, his resistance seemed to spur her on. She casually summoned a small water ball, which sshed directly over Lucas''s head, leaving him spluttering and momentarily distracted.


    Seizing the opportunity, Barbara quickly undid thest knot securing Lucas.


    Her eyes widened at what she saw.


    So... he wasn''t lying after all!


    Within his small formy an unexpected strength.


    "See? I wasn''t lying," Lucas said, blushing slightly. "Now do you believe me?"


    Barbara''s lips curved into a sly smile. "I just thought of... the perfect way to get back at you."


    "W-what are you nning now?" Lucas stammered, a hint of nervousness in his voice.


    "Sister once told me of a strategy called ''returning the favor in kind!''" Barbara took a deep breath, determination in her gaze. "So... I''ll give you a taste of your own medicine!"


    Are you serious?!


    Lucas was now left utterly baffled, unsure if Barbara was genuinely innocent or just ying along.


    One thing was clear: tonight, Lucas would join the ranks of a few rare "lucky" heroes, in a rather unforgettable way.


    A dishevelled Lucasy on the bed. As a ''child'', what had just happened was simply overwhelming.


    If he could sum it up in one word, it would be¡ªttened.


    Like a massive truck barreling down, crushing Lucas''s small, fragile frame.


    "This is our secret," Barbara warned, casually wringing out her damp blonde hair as she shot him a smirk. "You''d better not tell anyone, got it? I know where you work, and I know who your boss is¡ªKeqing herself. So, watch your step, okay?"


    Lucas didn''t respond.


    The whole situation felt oddly familiar.


    <i>Oh, right.</i> In the simtor, hadn''t he used a simr threat himself? Karma sure worked fast.


    Seeing Lucas huddled there, looking pitiful and defeated, Barbara felt a twinge of guilt.


    <i>Was I... too rough?</i>


    "Come here," Barbara motioned to him with a finger.


    "Wha¡ªagain?" Lucas shuddered.


    "No, don''t worry," she reassured him, shaking her head. "I just want to check for injuries."


    Though it was nothing serious, just a few minor scrapes, it was still far less than the mischief Lucas had inflicted on her in the past.


    Obediently, he shuffled over, and as she looked at him¡ªthis small, endearing boy¡ªBarbara''s heart softened slightly.


    She ced her hand on his shoulder, and a cool, soothing sensation washed over him.


    "Now we''re even," she said gently. "You don''t owe me anything anymore."


    Despite Barbara''s now-mature appearance, her heart remained as pure as ever. While she had talked big about "revenge," now that it was over, an empty feeling lingered.


    Perhaps sensing her disappointment, Lucas suddenly let out a sarcastic chuckle. "Is that it?"


    "What did you say?" Barbara''s brow furrowed, her mood darkening. "Haven''t you learned your lesson?"


    "Lesson? You call <i>that</i> a lesson?" Lucas crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow defiantly. "You only got away with it because I''m stuck as a kid. If you''re really serious,e at me with everything you''ve got."


    Of course, he could have stopped her at any time, but why would he?


    "You little...!" Barbara couldn''t suppress a giggle, her earlier discontent fading. Gripping his shoulders yfully, she said, "Oh, so you''re asking for it, huh? Well, we still have a bit of time before sunrise...I am gonna suck you dry!"


    This round, without a doubt, went to Barbara.


    ...


    "Yawn..."


    Klee rubbed her sleepy eyes as she stumbled out of her hut, mumbling, "Klee... needs to go potty..."


    Even in her adult form, she was still groggy and half-awake.


    But as she approached the other hut, she heard strange noisesing from within.


    "Huh...?" Her senses sharpening a bit, Klee carefully approached, mumbling, "It sounds like Daddy and Sister Barbara."


    Unbeknownst to Barbara, the water barrier she''d set up to muffle sound had evaporated.


    "Stealthy Klee is on the case!"


    She peeked in, cautiously poking her head around the corner, but what she saw inside caused her eyes to go wide.


    "Waaah!" she wailed suddenly, her voice breaking into sobs as she raced toward Jean''s hut, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Captain Jean, help!"


    Lucas and Barbara froze, startled by Klee''s cry.


    ---


    <i>[Klee uses "Shriek"!]</i>


    <i>[Lucas'' spellcasting interrupted.]</i>


    <i>[Barbara enters "Frightened" state, unable to act temporarily.]</i>


    ---


    Jean was a light sleeper, due to her constant work responsibilities and years of dealing with emergencies. She woke up instantly at Klee''s cry.


    The grown-up Klee knelt beside her, herrge red eyes brimming with tears. "S-something terrible happened!"


    "Calm down, tell me slowly!" Jean said, ncing around and noticing Barbara was nowhere in sight. Her heart sank as she asked, "What happened?"


    "K-Klee saw Sister Barbara bullying Daddy!" Klee sobbed. "She was squashing him and saying, ''I''m going to crush you!'' Captain Jean, please save Daddy!"


    "Wha...?"


    Jean''s mind spun. Klee was still a child, after all, and likely misunderstood things. But Jean, as an adult, knew a bit about such matters¡ªsome of her favorite novels, after all, had hinted at... certain things.


    And Klee''s description sounded an awful lot like...


    No, it couldn''t be. Barbara was too innocent to act like that, especially toward Lucas¡ªwho was just a child now!


    Without wasting a second, Jean grabbed Klee''s hand, and they hurried toward the other hut.


    But with each step closer, Jean''s anxiety grew.


    If they really were... what would she do?


    But before she could think further, there was a loud <i>thud</i> as Lucas''s body flew out of the hut, crashing against arge tree trunk.


    "Ugh!" Lucas coughed, but then, smiling, he gave a thumbs-up. "Nice work, Barbara!"


    Barbara stepped out of the hut, adjusting a headband she''d tied around her forehead, her golden hair pulled back. She bowed respectfully, her hands sped in front of her. "Thank you for your guidance, Master Lucas!"


    Jean and Klee arrived just in time, both wearing identical expressions of utter confusion.


    "Um..." Jean ventured, her tone baffled, "What... exactly are you two doing?"


    "Huh? Sister... did we make too much noise and wake you up?" Barbara asked, guilt flickering across her face. "Sorry about that!"


    "Well, here''s what happened¡ªBarbara found me just now," Lucas exined calmly. "Since Captain Jean and I have both turned into children, Barbara is the only one of us who still has her fullbat abilities. She wanted me to teach her somebat techniques, just in case."


    "So..." Jean''s eyes widened in realization. "When Klee said she saw Barbara pinning you down... was that also...?"


    "Exactly! That''s called groundwork!" Lucas said shamelessly. "It''s a grappling technique I learned from a martial artist in Inazuma."


    "Ah, I see!" Jean nodded thoughtfully. "I''ve heard that Inazuma has a martial art called ''Judo.'' I didn''t realize you knew it as well."


    "Of course," Lucas said, seizing the chance as Jean nodded along. "Barbara and I were practicing Judo! But actually, it''s originally from Liyue."


    Technically, he wasn''t lying... Judo was indeed a martial art.


    "Klee, looks like you misunderstood," Jean exined, gently taking Klee''s hand. "Your dad and Barbara were just practicingbat techniques."


    "Hmm, but something still feels off," Klee muttered, scratching her head. Then her eyes lit up as she pped her hands. "Wait, they weren''t wearing...!"


    "Klee!" Lucas interrupted hastily. "Daddy''s hungry. How about we go blow up some fish for breakfast?"


    "Blow up fish? Yay!" Klee quickly dropped her questions, grabbing Lucas in a hug. "Gotta make the most of our fish-sting chance before Captain Jean says no!"


    As Lucas and Klee left to prepare breakfast, Jean''s smile faded, and she turned to Barbara with a cool expression. "Barbara, why would you do that?"


    Oh no...


    A chill ran down Barbara''s spine.


    Could it be... that her sister had already figured out everything between her and Lucas? Had Jean kept quiet just to spare her feelings?


    "I''m... I''m sorry..." Barbara muttered, guilt written all over her face. "I... I got carried away."


    "If you wanted to learnbat techniques, you could have asked me!" Jean replied with a hint of frustration. "As your sister, I would have been happy to teach you some swordsmanship myself."


    Huh?


    Barbara was caught off guard by the response, feeling an unexpected warmth in her chest.


    For the first time in all these years, Jean had called herself "sister."


    "Sister!" Ovee with emotion, Barbara hugged her, tears of joy and relief streaming down her face. "I am so so happy!"


    "There''s something else I don''t quite understand," Jean continued, her expression puzzled. "Why were you shouting, ''I''m going to crush you'' while training?"


    A bead of sweat rolled down Barbara''s forehead.


    <i>"Crush", of course, referred to... well... her crushing his figure under her two big mountains.</i>


    "That was..." Barbara quickly improvised, "a battle cry! Lucas said that yelling things like that can make you more intimidating during a fight."


    "Hmm, I suppose that makes sense," Jean mused, rubbing her chin thoughtfully. "Amanding presence is important inbat, after all."


    Before long, Lucas and Klee returned, carrying fresh fish they''d blown up for a simple but delicious breakfast. The countdown to resuming the game was also down to a mere few minutes, and everyone felt refreshed and energized after their meal.


    "Lucas," Jean said, picking up a nearby stick. "I''ve actually wanted to spar with you for a while now. Would you be up for it?"


    Lucas could tell right away that Jean''s challenge was more about demonstrating her skills to Barbara than anything else, so he nodded, smiling. "Sure thing, a little post-breakfast exercise sounds good. Besides, we''re just kids right now, so let''s keep it to technique only."


    "But using sticks is a bit basic," Lucas said, taking two branches and transforming them with alchemy into small wooden practice swords. He tossed one to Jean. "Here, catch!"


    Jean epted the wooden sword, noting that, even with her reduced size, it felt quitefortable in her hand. She twirled it once, pointing the tip at Lucas with a smirk. "I''m going to crush you!"


    "...What?"


    Lucas froze, ncing over at Barbara, who now had her face in her hands, clearly embarrassed.


    Seeing Jean charge toward him, Lucas quickly raised his sword to block. Both had impressive technique, though their strength and speed were naturally hindered by their child-sized forms.


    "Go, Daddy!" cheered Klee from the sidelines.


    "Go, Sister!" Barbara added with equal enthusiasm.


    Even though they were smaller, the skill gap remained. After about thirty or forty exchanges, Lucas got a good sense of Jean''s level¡ªshe was about on par with E, though slightly less powerful than Diluc.


    ---


    Author''s Note: I was supposed to get home by 4:30 PM, but I ended up arriving at 1 AM. So, as you can imagine, my train fucked up pretty bad.


    Anyway, we didn''t make it into the top 5, but I''m still going to give you the extra Chapters. I know if I didn''t, you''d probably start crying, and mommy can''t see you cry ??


    (Later tho, I still need sleep)

 Chapter 116: Villain Simulator, Ch 115

    <h4>Chapter 116: Viin Simtor, Ch 115</h4>


    Though Lucas could easily have blocked the attack, he knew Jean was eager to show her skills to Barbara, so he purposefully left an opening.


    Jean seized the opportunity, stepping forward and striking Lucas''s midsection with the practice sword. Although the blow was harmless, Lucas feigned injury with a convincing grunt and fell dramatically to the ground.


    His fall was so skillful, even a certain country''s ser team might have apuded.


    "Are you okay?" Jean eximed, dropping the wooden sword in rm and rushing over to help him up, her face full of concern. "I''m sorry¡ªI didn''t mean to hit so hard!"


    "Daddy!" Klee was even more rmed than Jean, clutching Lucas tightly and wailing, "Please don''t die, Daddy! Wahhh!"


    "Mmmph!" Lucas, small as he was, found himself smothered in Klee''s muchrger embrace.


    For a brief moment, Lucas relived the terror of being ttened by an unstoppable force¡ªa sensation he had unfortunately experienced with Barbara justst night.


    "Klee..." Barbara, blushing slightly, spoke up, "I think your daddy might be getting squished to death."


    "Eh?!" Klee gasped and quickly released Lucas. The small boy now looked thoroughly dazed, his face flushed as he teetered between consciousness and confusion.


    "Daddy, are you okay?" Klee asked, gently shaking him, her voice filled with worry. "Say something, please!"


    "He''ll be fine," Barbara reassured her, stifling augh. "Though... he might be a little dizzy."


    "It''s all your fault!" Klee huffed, puffing out her cheeks as she patted her chest in frustration. "Why''d you have to grow up so big?! You almost squished Daddy to death!"


    Upon hearing Klee''s outburst, Barbara and Jean both dropped a few silent beads of sweat, realizing just how oblivious she was to her own situation.


    Perhaps this was what it meant to not appreciate one''s blessings.


    Fortunately, afterst night''s... intense experiences, Lucas had developed a certain resilience to "big mountains"¡ªno, to "older sisters." Within a few moments, he had cleared his head and regained hisposure.


    If Jean''s sword strike had dealt 5 points of physical damage, then Klee''s "attack" had definitely added a stun debuff.


    Just as Lucas recovered, the game board signaled it was time to continue, and this round, it was Lucas''s turn to roll.


    "Wait a moment..." Jean seemed to recall something, her brows knitting together. "Wasn''t there a message on the board yesterday saying you had to do something ''bad'' before the game could continue?"


    At Jean''s question, both Lucas and Barbara visibly paled.


    "So..." Jean narrowed her eyes, suspicion flickering in her gaze. "Did you do something bad, Lucas?"


    Lucas and Barbara exchanged a quick, worried nce¡ªone which Jean didn''t miss. Her sharp gaze settled on them, and she frowned. "Does this ''bad deed'' have something to do with Barbara?"


    For anything to be ssified as a "bad deed," it would need both a subject and an object. Jean herself couldn''t be the victim, and Klee, as Lucas''s daughter, seemed an unlikely candidate. That left Barbara as the most usible answer.


    Though Jean did have a favorable impression of Lucas, if he had wronged Barbara, she certainly wouldn''t let it slide.


    Just as Jean''s gaze grew sharper, Barbara suddenly spoke up. "It''s not Lucas''s fault. I... I was the one who asked him to do it."


    "What?" Jean and Lucas eximed in unison.


    "Back when we got separated from you, Lucas and I discussed how he couldplete the ''bad deed'' required for the game to continue." Barbara blushed slightly. "So... I let him..."


    "It... it wasn''t that serious!" Barbara quickly shook her head. "I just let him... peek at me while I was bathing, that''s all."


    Whoa, whoa. If she''d agreed to it, then it wasn''t "peeking"; that was practically an invitation!


    "Is... is that all?" Jean asked, frowning in concern.


    Though it was certainly serious, considering the unusual circumstances, she found it more understandable.


    Though Jean struggled to ept this, the fact that Lucas was now allowed to roll the dice confirmed he had indeedpleted the required bad deed.


    "Fine. It was for the sake of the game," Jean finally sighed, patting Lucas''s shoulder. "But if you ever think of using Barbara as... inspiration for unholy activities, I''ll make sure you regret it!"


    As if! Ever since he got that simtor, Lucas had left "solo activities" far behind.


    And besides, Barbara was long past being just inspiration material.


    Lucas nodded solemnly, "Don''t worry¡ªI''d never do that."


    "What are you talking about?" Klee asked, eyes wide in confusion as she looked from one to the other. "Klee wants to do it too!"


    "No!" the three others said in unison.


    ...


    Finally, Lucas tossed the dice.


    A three and a four.


    Sighing, he noted with disappointment that he hadn''t rolled a one, meaning he couldn''t revert to his adult form just yet.


    <i>[A wave of monsters is approaching...]</i>


    As the text appeared, the ground around them began to tremble. Fissures opened in the earth, and countless monsters crawled out, surrounding the group of four.


    But these weren''t mere Hilichurls or slimes. Instead, they were high-ranking monsters: Geovishap Hatchlings, a Rifthound, a Stonehide Lawachurl and even a Pyro Regisvine.


    Monsters that, even on their own, would cause major trouble were emerging as if there was no monster budget to worry about.


    Even if Lucas and Jean hadn''t been turned into children, facing this many powerful enemies at once would have been a formidable challenge.


    "Wh-what do we do now?" Barbara stammered, anxiety shing across her face. "This is way too many!"


    "Stay calm!" Lucas quickly reassured her. "Remember, this is a game. If it''s a game, there has to be a way to win. There must be some way out of this..."


    "Maybe they just look strong but are actually really weak?" Klee guessed, raising her hands as arge fireball materialized in her palms. "Kaboom!"


    Even as a child, Klee''s elemental power had been considerable. Now, with her adult form amplifying her Pyro abilities, the massive fireball struck a Geovishap Hatchling dead-on, shattering part of its stone armor but failing to deal critical damage.


    Worse, the monster roared in rage, stomping toward them with a vengeance that made the earth shake with every step.


    "Oh no," Barbara scratched her head nervously,ughing. "Looks like we made it mad!"


    "Jean!" Lucas suddenly called, an idea shing through his mind. "It''s your turn to roll next. Hurry! Maybe the next event will help us deal with this!"


    "Yes!"


    Jean quickly realized the strategy.


    Using one round to counter another, magic against magic!


    Just as the monsters closed in, Jean picked up the dice and threw it toward the board.


    A roll of four and five¡ªnine steps forward!


    But when the piece moved across the board andnded on its new square, the text that appeared left Jean, Lucas, and Barbara all staring in dismay.


    <i>[Repeat the previous round''s event.]</i>


    Meaning...


    The ground began to rumble again, and yet another wave of monsters emerged from below, surrounding them on all sides.


    Monster count, doubled!


    Instead of solving the problem, they had now made things far worse.


    "This was your solution?" Barbara asked anxiously, her face pale. "Didn''t it just make things worse?"


    "How was I supposed to know this would happen?" Lucas said, feeling helpless. "Think of something else!"


    "What else can we do?" Barbara''s voice trembled as she watched the overwhelming horde of monsters closing in like a tidal wave. "Are we... going to die here?"


    "I don''t think so," Lucas tried to reassure her. "It''s just a game. If we lose, we probably just go back to reality."


    After all, <i>The Hero Klee vs. the Demon King</i> was a fairy talee to life from Klee''s innocent imagination, and in a fairytale world, the heroes never die, right?


    But that didn''t mean Lucas would just stand there and surrender.


    As a Stonehide Lawachurl charged forward, Lucas formed an ice spear in his hand and hurled it straight at its chest.


    "Dragon Piercing Spear!"


    The Stonehide Lawachurl, who hadn''t flinched at Klee''s massive fireball, wasn''t about to back down from a small ice spear. It raised a giant hand to swat it aside.


    Unexpectedly, the razor-sharp ice spear pierced clean through the Lawachurl''s palm, continued through its chest, and exited, leaving a gaping hole.


    <i>[Executioner perk activated: Permanent 10% strength increase]</i>


    The Executioner perk had the potential to grant bonuses after defeating a target, depending on the strength of the enemy.


    But in the current situation, these bonuses wouldn''t mean much.


    Lucas might be able to deal with a few monsters, but with his limited stamina, he could only form so many Dragon Piercing Spears before tiring.


    "What now?" Jean asked, pressing her back against Lucas, her brows furrowed with worry. "If the game ends, are we going to...?"


    "I don''t know," Lucas answered coolly. "But we need to make sure Klee and Barbara are safe."


    "You and I think alike," Jean replied, managing a faint smile. "If only we were in our regr bodies right now."


    Together, Jean and Lucas''sbined abilities could buy enough time, even if they couldn''t defeat the horde outright.


    But just as they braced themselves for a final stand, a ttering sound broke through the tension¡ªthe unmistakable sound of dice hitting the wooden board.


    "It''s Klee''s turn!"


    Amid the chaos, Klee had taken her turn and rolled the dice once again.


    The three of them gasped.


    Their situation was already critical, and if Klee''s roll triggered another dangerous event, it might be game over for all of them.


    A roll of two and four¡ªsix steps.


    <i>[Summon the thing you fear the most.]</i>


    This was it. They were doomed.


    As if the two waves of monsters weren''t enough, now they had to deal with a summoned boss on top of it.


    After all, for a little girl like Klee, the scariest thing imaginable would probably be another huge, fearsome monster.


    Let alone a creature terrifying enough to frighten even Klee, who was typically so fearless.


    A summoning circle appeared in front of them, glowing intensely as a figure began to take shape in the center.


    When the light faded, everyone squinted in confusion at what they saw, their faces filled with astonishment.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Mommy is joining the game ??

 Chapter 117: Villain Simulator, Ch 116

    <h4>Chapter 117: Viin Simtor, Ch 116</h4>


    What emerged from the summoning circle was neither a monster nor any kind of deformed creature, but instead, a breathtakingly beautiful elf woman.


    Her long, pale golden hair was tied into a neat ponytail, and her deep crimson eyes carried an intense gaze¡ªnone other than Klee''s mother, Alice!


    "Oh my, my..." Alice stretched with azy smile. "Let''s see now, who managed to summon me out of nowhere like this?"


    "Lady Alice?" Jean eximed, her face a mix of shock and surprise. "How can this be you?"


    Then it hit her¡ªconsidering Klee''s boundless boldness, it made sense that the only person she could truly be "afraid" of would be someone as unfathomably powerful as her own mother, Alice.


    "It''s you all?" Alice scanned the group with a thoughtful look, her gaze falling on each in turn. "Miss Jean, little Barbara, and... hmm?"


    When Alice''s gaze finally settled on Klee, she narrowed her eyes with a slight expression of doubt. "And you are...?"


    Since Klee had been transformed by the board''s effects, she now looked like a grown-up, neen years old. Naturally, she no longer resembled the little girl Alice was used to, which left Alice herself uncertain for a moment.


    "Mom!" Klee cried out, running over and throwing herself into Alice''s arms with joy. "Klee missed you so much!"


    "Klee?" Alice''s surprise was evident. "Well, it seems I''ve been away quite a while if you''ve grown this much!"


    Hearing this, the other three couldn''t help but drop a few sweat drops. How rxed did Alice have to be to have no clue about her daughter''s age?


    "Lady Alice, the situation is ratherplicated," Jean interjected with a tense expression. "We''ll exin everything in a moment, but for now, could you please help us deal with the immediate danger?"


    "Danger?" Alice tilted her head in mild confusion. "What danger?"


    "Those monsters, of course!" Barbara replied hastily. "Can''t you see them?"


    Unlike Jean, Barbara had little experience with Alice and was unaware of her terrifying power.


    "Oh, you mean those?" Alice nced toward the approaching horde with a casual air. "Klee, dear, would you like to see some fireworks?"


    "Yes!" Klee''s eyes lit up as she nodded excitedly.


    "Watch carefully then," Alice said with a smile, extending her hand toward the horde that was now dangerously close. She formed her fingers into the shape of a gun and whispered softly, "Bang."


    At her word, an Geovishap Hatchling that was mere steps away seemed to be lifted by an invisible force, rising high into the air before exploding with a spectacr "boom," scattering in a radiant burst of colorful lights like a firework.


    "Bang!" "Bang!" "Bang!"


    Alice continued with a few more casual "shots," and every time her finger moved, yet another monster would be flung up into the sky, only to detonate in an awe-inspiring array of colors. The entire horde of monsters was soon bursting overhead, leaving the scenepletely mesmerizing.


    Indeed, what was a "dangerous" monster surge to the four-person team was, for Alice, nothing more than something she could obliterate with a snap of her fingers.


    Rather than calling it "dangerous," it was more like something just slightly annoying.


    "Wow! Mom, you''re amazing!"


    Klee expressed her admiration for Alice without a hint of restraint.


    Seeing this, Barbara and Jean began to understand why Alice was, to Klee, "the most fearsome existence."


    "Alright, that minor issue has been handled," Alice pped her hands with a smile. "Now, can someone tell me what''s actually going on here?"


    Jean nodded and began to exin, "It''s like this, you had Lu..."


    She paused, suddenly remembering that Lucas had been ying Klee''s father on Alice''s request. She quickly rephrased, "Your dear husband brought Klee a toy, which ended up pulling all of us into this game world. That''s why you were summoned here as well."


    "Husband?" Alice scratched her cheek, looking hesitant. "You mean... my husband?"


    "Yes! Yes, indeed!" Jean threw Alice a meaningful nce, adding, "Wasn''t it you who asked Klee''s father to visit her?"


    "Klee''s father?" Alice looked at Klee, who, now an adult, nodded and said, "Yes, Daddy''s here too!"


    Though she wasn''t sure what exactly was going on, Alice was nothing if not sharp. Catching on to the strange circumstances, she yed along with a smile. "Oh, silly me, how could I forget? Now then... where is my dear husband?"


    Wait... Why did that line sound a bit too familiar?


    "Daddy!"


    Klee immediately pointed at Lucas and waved. "Mom''s looking for you!"


    At that moment, Lucas, who had been trying to slip away unnoticed, had no choice but to stop in his tracks. He turned around slowly, trying to smile. "H-honey, you came too."


    My husband... is a little kid?


    Alice had expected someone pretending to be her non-existent husband to be someone sinister, not an actual child.


    Even though this little boy looked quite cute, to call him her husband was still pushing it, wasn''t it?


    It seemed that he, too, was affected by this game, reverting from an adult to a child.


    "Klee, be a good girl," Alice said with a smile, "wait here with the others for a moment. I need to have a talk with your daddy."


    "Got it, Mom!" Klee nodded, appearing used to these kinds of things. "Take your time. Klee won''t be a third wheel!"


    "Come along," Alice walked over to Lucas, an ominous smile on her face. "Shall we go have a chat over there?"


    This scene reminded Lucas of those days in middle school when he was called out for a "talk" by bullies.


    Except that time, it ended with all of them lying on the ground after he took them down.


    Meanwhile, Klee, Barbara, and Jean watched the scene unfolding from a distance.


    "Klee, I have to say..." Barbara frowned. "Why does it feel like your parents barely know each other?"


    "Barbara!" Jean immediately reprimanded her. "Don''t speak out of turn!"


    "Klee''s not sure either," Klee shook her head. "But Klee likes both Daddy and Mommy a lot!"


    Unlike others affected by the "Dream," Klee, due to her young age, found it harder to distinguish between reality and the virtual world.


    Plus, having been raised in the Knights of Favonius, Klee had few real memories of Alice.


    Any conflicting details between reality and the dream were naturally filtered out by Klee''s brain. Thus, her memories of Alice were entirely based on reality, while her memories of Lucas came entirely from the dream.


    This led to Klee remembering her parents as two distinct individuals with almost no interaction.


    ...


    Only when they were far enough from the others did Alice stop and cross her arms, a smirk on her face.


    "Alright, spill," she sneered. "I won''t even ask why you''re pretending to be my husband. But why does Klee think you''re her father?"


    Even just standing before Alice, Lucas could feel an unimaginable, overwhelming pressure.


    It was the same kind of pressure he felt in the Simtor when he faced the Tsaritsa directly.


    He had no doubt that if he slipped up even once, he would be treated just like the monsters Alice had obliterated earlier.


    "It''s... hard to believe, to be honest," Lucas decided to go with the truth. "Klee and I shared the same dream. In the dream, I was her father. I didn''t expect Klee to have the exact same dream and end up thinking of me as her dad. To avoid disappointing her, I didn''t correct her."


    Honestly, Lucas wasn''t even sure he believed it himself, let alone expecting Alice to believe such a far-fetched story!


    "The dream you''re talking about..." Alice muttered thoughtfully, "could it be... the one where someone kidnapped my daughter Klee to raise her as a criminal?"


    At Alice''s words, Lucas felt his heart sink.


    "Wait..." Lucas stammered. "How do you know about that?"


    "It''s simple," Alice replied, her smile unreadable. "I had the same dream."


    What?


    How could Alice know about the Simtor''s contents?


    Klee''s connection to the Simtor could be exined by her proximity to him.


    But Alice, who was so far away, dreaming about the Simtor too... how did that make any sense?


    "System!" he called inwardly. "Exin yourself!"


    [During the simtion, certain characters may be assigned corresponding roles in dreams to ensure realism.]


    [Generally, the system clears these memories upon waking.]


    [But due to the character''s immense strength, memory erasure may have been iplete.]


    [PS: Final interpretation rights belong to the system.]


    Did they have an intern write this system code?


    This was a major problem!


    Actually, Lucas had been wondering for a long time about the Simtor''s mechanism. If every character in it was created by the "system," then as an NPC, its performance was absurdly advanced.


    So it turned out all the NPCs were real people ying their roles?


    Alice seemed to sense the unusual look on Lucas''s face and gave him aforting smile. "Don''t worry. I already understand why this strange dream happened."


    Hearing Alice''s words, Lucas felt a fresh wave of nervousness.


    Could it be that Alice already knew he possessed a power not of this world¡ªthe system?


    After all, the woman before him was the most "unfathomable" person Lucas had encountered since arriving in Teyvat¡ªin every possible way.


    "So, what... exactly are you getting at?" Lucas feigned ignorance, asking.


    "Before we discuss that, I have one question for you. Don''t lie to me," Alice eyed Lucas carefully, speaking in a serious tone. "You''re not from this world, are you?"


    So she really had figured it out.


    The concept of an "otherworldly visitor" would be hard for most people to grasp, but for Alice¡ªwho could travel between worlds¡ªit was no surprise at all.


    Lucas''s instincts told him it was best not to deceive her. Her power was likely on par with the Seven Archons and, in some areas, could even... surpass them.


    "That''s right," Lucas nodded, answering truthfully. "It was an ident that brought me into this world."


    "I like an honest young man," Alice nodded approvingly. "Since you''re also a traveler between worlds, this should make my exnation a lot easier."


    She raised her hand, and a stray twig instantly flew into her palm. With it, she poked a point into the sandy ground, then drew a straight line from that point. "Originally, the world we live in was moving forward along a straight line. But..."


    Abruptly, she stopped the twig, then drew two lines diverging from the end of the first line. "At a certain moment, because of some divergent event, the world may start developing in two entirely different directions. This is what gives rise to ''parallel worlds.''"


    With a flick of her hand, the lines in the sand began to branch off continuously, like the boughs of a tree, until there were so many branches it was impossible to keep track of them all.


    "Innumerable points of divergence create countless parallel worlds, and the world we''re in now is just one of those," Alice tossed the twig aside with a smile. "But these parallel worlds aren''t entirely disconnected. When we fall asleep, it''s very possible to experience life... as someonepletely different in another parallel universe."


    "That''s why our dreams are always so bizarre and surreal," Alice pointed at Lucas. "For example, while you and I have no connection in this world, in other worlds, we might be lifelongpanions."


    "So you mean..." Lucas murmured, "those dreams aren''t illusions, but rather, ''reality'' in another world?"


    If Alice''s theory were correct, then everything Lucas had experienced in the "Simtor" wasn''t some virtual construct but events that truly took ce in another parallel world.


    And all the "bad deeds" he hadmitted weren''t just meaningless data.


    "You could see it that way," Alice nodded. "The three of us must have simply dreamed of lives in the same parallel universe¡ªan extremely rare coincidence. Though theoretically speaking, it''s incredibly unlikely, it''s not entirely impossible."


    Unaware of the system''s existence, Alice''s theory ced the probability of such an urrence somewhere around the chance of three people winning the lottery''s grand prize simultaneously.


    "Generally, though, these dreams are faint, and we forget more than ny percent of them after waking."


    Alice suddenly leaned in, gazing intently into Lucas''s eyes. "But that dream involving you felt too real. Rather than calling it a dream, it''s more like I fully experienced my life in another parallel world."


    For a moment, she was ovee with the desire to experience that joy again...


    In that dream, the happiness she had felt with this man.


    Of course, this thought merely flitted across Alice''s mind; after all, it was just a dream.


    And besides, with Lucas turned into a child by the board''s magic, even if she were willing, he certainly wasn''t capable.


    "Miss Alice, it seems we''ve resolved our misunderstanding," Lucas said, a bit awkwardly. "Since it was just a dream, perhaps you should take a chance to exin to Klee that I''m... not really her father."


    "There''s actually a favor I''d like to ask," Alice shook her head, smiling slightly. "I hope that you might... continue pretending to be Klee''s father."


    "What?" Lucas eximed in surprise. "Why?"


    "Klee adores you, doesn''t she?" Alice sighed softly. "I''ve been traveling for so long, I rarely get to spend time with her. I feel terribly guilty about that. If she had a father figure around from time to time, she''d probably be very happy."


    "But that''s only temporary," Lucas reminded her. "Once Klee grows up a little, she''s bound to figure it out."


    "That''s alright. Who knows, maybe before then..." A somewhat ambiguous smile appeared on Alice''s face. "We might... make the act real."


    Wait... was she hinting at something?

 Chapter 118: Villain Simulator, Ch 117

    <h4>Chapter 118: Viin Simtor, Ch 117</h4>


    "Haha, judging by that look on your face, I was just kidding," Alice waved her hand with augh. "Just keep ying the role of Klee''s dad. I''ll handle the rest."


    Although it seemed like Alice was merely "requesting" this, Lucas knew full well that rejecting her would likely have some unpleasant consequences. It was better to ept and earn her goodwill.


    "Understood," Lucas nodded. "After all, I do genuinely like Klee."


    "Don''t worry; I never leave debts unpaid." Alice reached out, pinching Lucas''s cheek with a yful smile. "I''ll make sure you''re wellpensated."


    Lucas, with his cheeks squished, could only manage a garbled reply, "Th-thank you..."


    "Let''s see... how about a little treat?" Alice said, and then, suddenly, she leaned in and gave Lucas a gentle kiss on the lips.


    There was a faint scent of cinnamon.


    [Talent Acquired: "Witch''s Prank"]


    [Rank: S]


    [Effect: Once per day, you may randomly cast a spell as a "Witch." The level, effect, and power of the spell are entirely unpredictable.]


    "Muah!"


    Alice wiped the corner of her mouth, smiling slyly. "Take it as a small gift from me. Maybe it''lle in handy if you''re ever in a pinch."


    Alice''s exnation was far simpler than the system''s description of the talent.


    This was less a "reward" and more of a prank on Alice''s part.


    Random magic? It sounded like a recipe for chaos.


    Any D&D yer knows that a wizard''s spell list is vast, with effects as varied as they are strange. Who knew what odd urrences might result from using Alice''s magic?


    Still, to grant an S-rank talent with just a casual kiss¡ªAlice''s power was... truly terrifying.


    "Since you''ve epted my gift, the contract is nowplete. You Liyue people value contracts, don''t you?" Alice looked mischievously at him. "If you dare break our contract, I''ll just have to pay a visit to Zhong... I mean, to the Geo Archon himself to discuss it!"


    Wait... did she almost say Zhongli just now?


    Does she actually know that Zhongli is the Geo Archon?


    "Don''t worry, Miss Alice," Lucas replied, feeling both amused and helpless. "Even if I had the guts, I''d never dare to mess with you."


    "Wrong," Alice wagged a finger yfully. "Our rtionship is that of husband and wife now, remember? How should you address me?"


    "Um... Lady? Madame?" Lucas guessed, unsure.


    "Those are much too formal," Alice giggled. "Just call me wifey. Go on, give it a try."


    Lucas''s face turned a deep shade of red as he mumbled, "Wif¡ªwifey..."


    Alice found it amusing to be called that by a young boy, though... she didn''t dislike the feeling.


    Though her marriage to Lucas was something that had happened in a parallel world, those dreams and memories felt almost like they had been real experiences. So, in her heart, Alice did hold some special affection for Lucas.


    "Well, I''m counting on you, then," Alice whispered into Lucas''s ear, her voice sultry, "my dear husband."


    Lucas felt his ears turn hot, and memories from the Simtor flooded back to his mind¡ªmemories of the things he and Alice had done there.


    For him, that had been far more than just a dream.


    ---


    "Mom! Dad!" As the two returned, Klee ran over to them with curiosity, asking, "What were you two talking about?"


    "Oh, just a little chat," Alice pinched Lucas''s cheek with a smile. "After all, it''s been a long time since Ist saw your dad."


    "Is that so?" Klee pondered, rubbing her chin. "I thought maybe you two were doing some ''grown-up things.''"


    At Klee''s words, Jean''s expression shifted, and she quickly asked, "Klee! Who told you about that?"


    "Brother Kaeya!" Klee replied without hesitation. "Brother Kaeya said that when husbands and wives don''t see each other for a long time, they do grown-up things together. But... what are grown-up things?"


    "This Kaeya..." Jean muttered with a frown. "Telling Klee things like that..."


    Then again, it was just like Kaeya to make such jokes.


    "Oh, it''s just... kissing," Alice said, picking Klee up and nting a kiss on her soft, squishy cheek. "Just like this."


    Klee giggled with delight, but then her eyes widened with surprise as she looked at Alice''s hand. "Mom, what''s happening to your hand?"


    Alice nced down and saw that her hand had begun to dissolve into particles of light, along with the rest of her body.


    "It seems my time here is up," Alice said with a helpless smile. "I was summoned here, after all, so now it''s time for me to go back."


    "But Klee doesn''t want you to go!" Klee''s eyes filled with tears as her happy expression faded.


    "Mom wille back to see you again, and..." Alice nced at Lucas with a smile, "you''ll have your dad with you. Be good, okay?"


    "Klee... Klee will be good!" Klee''s words were brave, but her tears still flowed despite her best efforts to hold them back.


    After all, she was still a child, and it was hard for her to part with her mother.


    "Oh, I almost forgot¡ªI have a gift for you, Klee." Alice held out her hand, and a soft, fluffy stuffed toy with a big tail appeared as if by magic. "If both Mom and Dad aren''t around, you''ll have this to keep youpany."


    "Wow! I love it!" Klee hugged the toy with joy. "I''ve decided¡ªI''ll call you... Dodoco!"


    "Thank you, everyone, for always taking care of Klee... Goodbye." Alice''s voice faded as she disappeared along with the light particles.


    But before vanishingpletely, she gave Lucas onest, meaningful look¡ªa message that needed no words.


    Farewells always carry a hint of sadness. Alice''s departure left everyone quiet for a moment, especially Klee, who turned her back to the group, her usual cheerfulness dimmed.


    Just as the three were about to gofort her, they saw Klee wipe her eyes, then turn back around with her usual, carefree smile.


    "Let''s keep adventuring!" she said with a slight redness still in her eyes but a bright smile on her face. "Mom was right. I''m already so lucky to have you all with me!"


    Seeing Klee''s resilience, the others felt a wave of relief.


    "Alright, I guess it''s my turn!" Barbara took the dice in her hand, but she felt a bit nervous.


    What if something strange or dangerous happened again?


    Seeing her worry, Jean gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder with a smile. "Don''t worry, no matter what happens, as long as we work together, we can handle it!"


    Encouraged by her sister, Barbara finally mustered the courage to roll the dice.


    A one and a six¡ªseven steps.


    "Wow, it''s a one!" Klee eximed. "Are we going to change back... huh?"


    Before she could finish, her body had already transformed from that of a grown woman back into her usual little girl self.


    And the other three had also reverted to their original ages.


    "Aww, that''s too bad..." Klee mumbled in slight disappointment. "Now I''m short again."


    "I''m short again too..." Barbara sighed as she looked down at her chest, which had shrunk back. "I have to admit, being grown up was actually kind of nice."


    Just then, a new event appeared on the board¡ª


    [The dice roller bes a giant for one turn]


    "A giant...?"


    All four of them looked a bit puzzled.


    "L-look!" Klee suddenly eximed. "Barbara... she''s growing bigger again!"


    Lucas and Jean both turned to see that Barbara''s body was indeed erging at a visible rate.


    But rather than aging up, she was simply growing in size.


    Luckily, her clothing also grew with her body; otherwise, her clothes would have surely torn apart by now.


    Two meters, three meters, five meters, ten meters... she kept growing until she towered over the surrounding trees.


    "W-what''s happening to me?!" Naturally, Barbara was the most astonished of all. She watched as her body rose further and further from the ground, while everything around her¡ªincluding the others¡ªseemed to shrink smaller and smaller.


    If this were the real world, a sudden ergement of the human body would cause all sorts of issues. But here in this game, somehow, it all worked perfectly.


    Finally, Barbara''s "growth" stopped, but her body had reached an enormous, astonishing size.


    "Barbara, try not to panic!" Lucas called up to her. "It''s only supposed tost one turn!"


    However, as he tilted his head back to look up, Lucas''s expression became somewhatplicated.


    Due to Barbara''s enormous size, her skirt was now like a vast, dark cloud hanging over the three of them.


    And, of course, the "scenery" beneath that "cloud" was also... entirely on disy.


    What''s more, everything was so magnified that every detail was clearly visible, down to the very pores.


    Barbara seemed to realize this as well and squeaked in embarrassment, "D-don''t look!"


    Due to her size, Barbara''s voice boomed louder than usual, and her sudden shout left the others dizzy and shaken.


    "S-sorry, I didn''t mean to!" Barbara stammered, her face red with worry.


    She tried to adjust her position, but, still not fully used to her new size, she wobbled and suddenly lost her bnce,nding heavily on the ground with a thud.


    "Klee, watch out!"


    Jean''s first thought was to protect the youngest among them. Using her Anemo powers, she quicklyunched Klee to safety.


    But a huge shadow fell over her just as Barbara''s giant form was about tond on top of her.


    At that critical moment, Lucas dashed forward, shoving Jean out of harm''s way.


    "Lucas!"


    Jean''s shout was cut short by the deafening thud as Barbara, seated in a ducking position,nded on the sandy ground.


    And Lucas... was nowhere to be seen, seemingly buried beneath her.


    "Lucas!" Jean cried out in horror. "Barbara, quick... get up!"


    Even Jean herself didn''t realize her voice had taken on a tremor.


    "D-daddy..." Klee stared, wide-eyed, mumbling, "He really got squished by Barbara... waaah!"


    "I-I didn''t mean to!" Barbara quickly scrambled to her feet, but she couldn''t bring herself to look down.


    Being crushed by such a weight would tten even a Ruin Guard, or squish a Geo Slime into paste.


    But, to their surprise, there was no bloodied corpse on the ground where Barbara had fallen.


    "Eh?"


    Suddenly, Barbara''s face flushed crimson, and her voice trembled as she said, "L-Lucas... he''s... he''s still alive."


    "Really?" Jean asked immediately. "Where is he?"


    "Where''s Daddy?" Klee asked, her voice filled with worry.


    "L-look over there first!" Barbara pointed behind them in a flustered gesture.


    Jean and Klee turned to look, only to see nothing but the open sea stretching out before them, with no sign of Lucas.


    "Barbara, you''re teasing us! Daddy isn''t... huh? Daddy!"


    As Klee turned back, she saw Lucas in the palm of Barbara''s hand. "Wow! Barbara''s doing magic and made Daddy appear!" Klee squealed with delight.


    Barbara said nothing, though her expression wasplex. She carefully set Lucas down on the ground, and Klee immediately dashed over to him, asking in concern, "Daddy, are you alright? Eh? Why do you smell funny?"


    "Lucas, what exactly happened?" Jean asked as she came over, looking baffled. "Weren''t you... just crushed?"


    "I..." Lucas''s face flushed. "I was lucky enough to find... a gap."


    "A gap?"


    Jean didn''t quite understand at first, but ncing at both Lucas and Barbara''s faces, she seemed to catch on.


    In that split-second of survival, Lucas finally understood the meaning behind the saying, "When you gaze into the abyss, the abyss gazes back."


    "A gap?" Klee looked around at the patch of ground where Barbara hadnded. "Where''s the gap?"


    The enormous weight from Barbara''s body had ttened thend into two shallow oval-shaped depressions, more dramatic than anything Klee could achieve with her bombs. There was clearly nowhere to hide.


    "Klee, let''s not ask too many questions," Jean interjected at the right moment. "Your father just went through something very dangerous and needs a little time to calm down."


    Yes, he very much needed to calm down.


    ----


    Author''s Note: So many diddies

 Chapter 119: Villain Simulator, Ch 118

    <h4>Chapter 119: Viin Simtor, Ch 118</h4>


    Lucas thought to himself, <i>If I ever write a memoir a few decades from now, this experience would definitely make the top three in "My Most Outrageous Near-Death Escapes."</i>


    The onlyfort was that he had already had Barbara''s "first ss of red wine." Otherwise, his current state would''ve been enough to make him lose his sanity.


    "Oh, Daddy, do you needforting?" Klee tugged lightly at Lucas''s sleeve, her little brows knitted with worry. "Klee cares about Daddy a lot!"


    "Daddy''s fine now," Lucas patted Klee''s head with a smile. "And don''t me Barbara; she didn''t mean it."


    "Barbara!" Klee cupped her little hands together and shouted up at Barbara, looking up with a big smile. "Daddy doesn''t me you! And I don''t either!"


    "Well, thanks a lot, you two..." Barbara responded, her face stricken with helpless embarrassment. "So... whose turn is it next? Let''s get this over with; I don''t want to stay like this a second longer than I have to!"


    "But I think it''s amazing!" To everyone''s surprise, Klee looked up at Barbara with envy. "Being able to grow so big is super cool!"


    "It''s not cool at all..." Barbara murmured with a pout. "That''s not the kind of ''growing up'' I wanted, and besides..."


    Besides, that embarrassing moment had almost broken her!


    For a sweet, gentle girl like Barbara, suddenly growing so huge was indeed hard to ept.


    "In any case, the faster we get on with the game, the sooner your size will go back to normal." Without further dy, Lucas picked up the dice and rolled them.


    A three and a five¡ªeight steps.


    [The yer will be teleported to the person who most wants you dead. You will return in three hours; if you die, you will be removed from the game.]


    "The person who most wants Lucas dead?" Jean frowned slightly. "What does that mean?"


    "Captain Jean, something''s wrong!" Klee gasped. "Daddy''s gone again!"


    She nced suspiciously at the enormous Barbara and, hands on her hips, said, "Did Barbara hide Daddy again?"


    "I did not!" Barbara protested, her face¡ªno, her <i>giant</i> face¡ªturning red. "Where would I even hide him?!"


    To be honest, there <i>were</i> ces she could hide him... and more than one.


    Jean looked around, and sure enough, Lucas hadpletely vanished from where he had been standing a moment ago.


    "What happened?" Jean muttered, her face worried. "If he really got teleported to someone who wants to kill him, that could be dangerous."


    "N-no way!" Klee shook her head vigorously. "Daddy''s a good guy. Why would anyone want to kill him?"


    "Good people are often the easiest to hold grudges against," Jean sighed but remained resolute. "But with his skills, I doubt he''d be killed so easily. Don''t worry, Klee."


    "I''m not worried about Daddy¡ªI''m more worried about Barbara!" Klee said with innocent curiosity, scratching her cheek. "If she has to ''go potty'' while she''s this big... wouldn''t the potty be... really big?"


    "Stop thinking about such weird things!" Barbara wailed in embarrassment.


    ---


    <i>Strange... where is this ce?</i>


    Lucas opened his eyes, only to realize that he was no longer on the ind board but in a confined space.


    Beneath him, he felt a gentle swaying.


    <i>It''s... a sedan chair!</i>


    It dawned on him that he was seated inside a pnquin. Drawing back the curtain, he saw that it was nighttime, and he was in Liyue, the familiar streets stretching out beyond him.


    Strangely, even though this was usually when Liyue''s night market would be bustling, the streets were nearly empty, with only a few shops still open.


    Just then, the sedan chair halted, and a deferential voice came from outside:


    "Young Master, there''s a strange woman blocking the road ahead. Should we shoo her away?"


    <i>Young Master?</i>


    Lucas was momentarily puzzled, but he quickly understood.


    In his simtion experiences, he had twice yed the role of a young master. Once was with the Lawrence family in Mondstadt, but since he was currently in Liyue, there was only one possibility.


    He was now in his first simtion, the one involving a dark version of Keqing.


    They say people always remember their first experience most vividly.


    Now he understood the meaning of being "teleported to the person who most wants you dead."


    Indeed, if there were anyone who wanted him dead, she''d undoubtedly be at the top of the list.


    "No need to be rude," Lucas replied, lifting the curtain and stepping out of the sedan. "She... is my guest."


    Sure enough, at the end of the road stood a purple-haired woman. The moonlight was at her back, obscuring her face, but her violet eyes glowed ominously.


    With a sudden "boom," a bolt of lightning cracked across the clear sky, sending a shiver through the sedan-bearers.


    "It''s... it''s the Thunder Rakshasa!"


    "Oh no... it''s that fiend!"


    "Young Master, run! She''s a demoness!"


    It was Keqing, but in this world, she had another identity¡ªThunder Rakshasa.


    In this simtion, Lucas had yed the role of a school bully who liked to torment his ssmates, especially Keqing. His bullying had led to her being ostracized by her peers. After a series of tragic events, Keqing had not only lost her chance to be the Yuheng of the Liyue Qixing but had also chosen to descend into darkness, joining the Abyss Order and bing the "Thunder Rakshasa."


    By this point, Keqing hadmitted several serious crimes in Liyue, and all her victims were former ssmates who had once bullied her. Now, she was here for him, the "mastermind" behind it all.


    In the simtion, Lucas had undoubtedly been executed by Keqing, and now, the board''s magic had transported him to that fateful moment.


    "Well, well... it''s been a long time."


    Keqing walked forward, her movements calm and deliberate as she drew her sword from her waist. The de crackled with lightning.


    Unlike the Keqing of reality, "Thunder Rakshasa" looked identical in appearance and build, but her aura and personality had transformedpletely.


    "Yes," Lucas replied, taking a step toward her, his face unafraid and smiling. "It has been a long time, hasn''t it?"


    The attendants around him were nowpletely terrified, shouting, "Young Master! Don''t go over there! She''s the ruthless Thunder Rakshasa!"


    "Hmph... they''re not wrong," Keqing sneered. "I am indeed a ruthless killer."


    "Oh?" Lucas remarked casually. "Then... don''t your eyes get dry?"


    Keqing blinked, momentarily thrown off guard. She had expected him to be scared out of his wits, yet here he was, making jokes instead.


    "Lucas!" she growled, gritting her teeth and gripping her sword, ready to strike, when suddenly Lucas stretched out his arms and pulled her into an embrace.


    "Keqing!" Lucas patted her back, his voice thick with emotion. "I missed you so much!"


    "You...!" Keqing trembled, shoving him away with fury on her face. "How dare you mock me!"


    "I''m not trying to mock you," Lucas shook his head, smiling. "Ever since you left, I''ve missed you dearly."


    Keqing was momentarily taken aback, but she quickly let out a cold sneer. "Lucas! Do you really think I''m still the naive girl I was ten years ago? Don''t think a few soft words will make me forgive you. All the pain I''ve endured up until now was for one purpose alone... to kill you!"


    With that, Keqing raised her sword, ready to thrust it at Lucas.


    However, Lucas noticed that, perhaps due to his words, Keqing''s movements were slightly slower than usual.


    By now, Lucas''s abilities far exceeded those of thezy, spoiled young master from his first simtion. Instead of being hit, he dodged like a slippery eel, avoiding her de with ease. Seizing the moment, he pinched her cheek with a grin. "Your temper''s as nasty as ever, but you''re even prettier now."


    "You...!"


    Keqing was both embarrassed and enraged, but more than anything, she was shocked. How had Lucas suddenly be so powerful?


    For this revenge, Keqing had nned meticulously. She had carefully studied each target, knowing full well that Lucas was a useless rich kid who knew nothing but falconry and dogs. Confident in her ability to kill him in the street, she''d never expected his strength to have increased so much.


    But she wasn''t about to give up on her revenge. Dark lines of energy began to appear across her skin, crackling with purple lightning. The surge of electricity made Lucas''s fingers sting, and he quickly pulled his hand back.


    This wasn''t the power of a Vision. In this world, Keqing hadn''t been granted a Vision. Her control over Electro energy was the result of modifications from the Abyss Order.


    The dark markings on her skin shimmered like lightning, which had earned her the title "Thunder Rakshasa."


    "Thunderstorm Surge!"


    Keqing''s sword unleashed a fierce bolt of lightning that struck toward Lucas''s chest. Lucas didn''t dodge, instead activating his <i>Diamond Body</i> ability to absorb the first blow.


    Although this ability reduced the attack''s damage by ny percent, Lucas still felt a numbing sensation throughout his body. If he had taken the full force, he''d likely be paralyzed.


    It was undeniable that this "Thunder Rakshasa" was stronger than the real Keqing¡ªthough that power came at a price.


    Lucas could see the pain in her eyes, twisted with hatred and suffering.


    Seeing that her powerful technique had failed, Keqing gritted her teeth, unleashing a flurry of strikes at Lucas, all aimed at his chest. But with his agile movements, Lucas dodged each one with ease.


    "Damn it!" Keqing shouted in frustration. "If you''re so strong, then fight back! Or are you just here to toy with me?"


    "Well, since you asked..."


    Lucas slipped behind her, and before she could react, he reached up and plucked a hairpin from her hair. Her violet hair cascaded down, and he twirled the hairpin between his fingers with a smirk.


    The hairpin wasn''t particrly beautiful and was rather old-fashioned, but it gleamed from being worn so often.


    [Talent Activated: <i>A Knight Never Fights Barehanded.</i>]


    [New Weapon Acquired: <i>Thunderstrike Pin</i>]


    [Effect: Increases attack speed by 30%, adds Electro damage]


    Seeing her hairpin in his hand, Keqing was furious. "Give that back!"


    "Oh, you want it?" Lucas continued twirling it with a mischievous grin. "Come and take it."


    "Die!"


    Keqing''s anger red, her lightning intensifying. The crackling electricity on her de lit up the night sky.


    Sword shed with lightning, hairpin glinted with silver.


    Keqing''s strikes were fast and fierce, but Lucas deflected each one effortlessly with the small hairpin. Sparks of electricity flew as their weapons shed in the dimly lit street, illuminating the scene with a flickering glow.


    The few people left on the street fled in fear, leaving only Lucas''s servants, who, too worried about their master''s safety, stayed close despite their terror.


    They could hardly believe what they were witnessing. The usuallyzy young master, who never seemed to take anything seriously, was now skillfully holding his own against the infamous "Thunder Rakshasa" with just a hairpin.


    While Lucas remained calm, Keqing grew increasingly anxious. Killing someone in the middle of the street was dangerous enough, and her n had been to finish him in two minutes and then flee.


    But now, after battling Lucas for so long, she knew it wouldn''t be long before the Ministry of Affairs dispatched guards. Not only would her revenge fail, but she herself might be captured.


    Realizing this, Keqing frowned and crossed her des over her chest, summoning even more lightning.


    "Secret Sword: Celestial Thunder Parade!"


    In a sh, Keqing leapt into the air, splitting into a dozen lightning-formed shadows that encircled Lucas.


    This technique, created bybining her family''s <i>Cloud Sword Style</i> with Electro power, was her fastest and most lethal move, one so swift it could seemingly strike down stars.


    No one had ever escaped her shadow-de formation unscathed.


    However, rather than trying to escape, Lucas closed his eyes as he stood surrounded.


    <i>Is he surrendering to his fate?</i>


    Keqing smirked, her shadows charging at him from all directions, while her true form waited just behind him, prepared to strike through his chest.


    But just as Keqing moved, Lucas abruptly spun around and hurled the hairpin straight at her face. Startled, Keqing reflexively blocked with her sword. At that moment, Lucas slipped under her defenses, grabbed her ankle, and with a powerful twist, mmed her down onto the ground.


    Keqing felt a jolt of pain through her entire body, her head spinning from the impact. In the distance, she suddenly heard the sound of disciplined, hurried footsteps.


    "Ministry of Affairs! All unrted individuals, clear the area!"


    Hearing this, Keqing''s heart filled with despair.


    She had endured years of suffering and even descended into the Abyss for power, only for it all to end like this.


    She was a wanted criminal with numerous charges, and if the Ministry of Affairs captured her, her fate would be sealed. Furious, she red at Lucas, "Just... kill me!"


    "Why would I kill you?" Lucas picked her up, cing her inside his sedan chair. As he closed the curtain, he shot her a meaningful smile and said, "We''re old ssmates, Keqing... our story isn''t over yet."


    The sedan-bearers and servants, seeing Lucas carry the "Thunder Rakshasa" into the chair, looked at each other in shock. But Lucas cast a cold nce at them, saying, "I''m taking her back for interrogation. Be careful not to let any word of this slip."


    The sedan-bearers exchanged nervous nces before nodding.


    Although the eldest young master Lucas was usually arrogant andzy, at this moment, he exuded a powerful aura that made it hard for anyone to breathe.

 Chapter 120: Villain Simulator, Ch 119

    <h4>Chapter 120: Viin Simtor, Ch 119</h4>


    Soon, the sound of footsteps approached as a woman led a squad of Elite troops toward them.


    The woman at the front was tall and strikingly beautiful, with a shapely figure. Her short, midnight-blue hair barely reached her shoulders, and she wore a luxurious white fur cape adorned with embroidered sleeves¡ªa clear sign of wealth and prestige.


    But the most eye-catching detail was the unhidden neckline and a small, dark beauty mark that contrasted against her fair skin, like a drop of ink on a snow-white canvas, irresistibly drawing the eye.


    "I am Yn, special agent of the Ministry of Civil Affairs," she said, her emerald eyes sweeping over Lucas with a subtle gleam. "My informant reported shes of lightning here, suggesting ''Thunder Rakshasa'' may be causing trouble. Would you happen to have any clues, young master?"


    "Well, well! You mean that famous Thunder Rakshasa?" Lucas feigned surprise, shaking his head with a theatrical frown. "The one with purple hair and pink eyes, dangerously beautiful, and a real cold-blooded killer?"


    "Exactly!" Yn''s eyes lit up. "You know of her?"


    For some time, the elusive Thunder Rakshasa had gued the Ministry of Civil Affairs, driving them to their wits'' end. Even Yn, a master of intelligence, only had records of Thunder''s activities from ten years ago¡ªrecent leads had all run dry.


    The Tianquan star, Ningguang, had publicly promised a hefty reward to anyone who could capture or kill the Thunder Rakshasa.


    "Oh, I wouldn''t know," Lucas said, waving his hand dismissively. "I just thought it was a lovely day for a stroll¡ªhow could I possibly run into such a terrifying character?"


    Yn had worked in the Ministry long enough to develop a keen sense for deception, and she could tell Lucas was hiding something. Her tone hardened as she warned, "Thunder Rakshasa is a wanted criminal of the Ministry. Harboring her is a severe offense."


    "Oh, how imposing, Miss Yn," Lucas retorted with a smirk. "So, is the Ministry ming us regr folk just because they can''t catch the criminal?"


    Yn gave him a sharp look, but then her expression shifted as she seemed to remember something. Narrowing her eyes, she said, "Wait a moment... I recall now! You''re the young master of a prestigious family. My files show that you crossed paths with Thunder Rakshasa when you were young, just like the other families she''s targeted. Are you certain she hasn''te looking for you?"


    "Come now, Miss Yn," Lucas shook his head. "If I knew I had a deadly enemying after me, I''d be hiding at home, surrounded by guards. Why would I be out here?"


    After considering his words, Yn nodded. As annoying as this young master was, what he said made sense, and her informant had only reported seeing shes of lightning¡ªnot definitive proof that Thunder was here.


    "Very well," Yn replied, not wanting to waste any more time. "If you discover anything, report it to the Ministry of Civil Affairs immediately."


    "But of course," Lucas replied with a mockingly polite bow. "My thanks to Miss Yn and the soldiers for your hard work. You''re wee to stop by my family''s hotel anytime for tea¡ªhalf price on the house."


    Yn was about to turn and leave when her gaze fell on the sedan chair behind Lucas. She noticed his servants shifting nervously, avoiding eye contact, and then caught sight of a bit of purple fabric peeking out from beneath the sedan''s curtain.


    "Young Master Lucas," Yn suddenly took two steps forward, her voice cold. "If you''re not harboring anyone, then who is in this sedan?"


    Inside the sedan, Keqing felt her heart racing. Her hand gripped her sword, ready to fight to the death if Yn lifted the curtain.


    Though the "Thunder Rakshasa" was formidable, she had expended a lot of energy in her recent battle. Moreover, Yn was rumored to be a force to be reckoned with, and Keqing knew her chances of escaping unscathed were slim.


    Lucas felt a slight tension as well but kept a steady smile. "Oh, it''s nothing more than a little secret pleasure of mine. I like to take a youngdy in my sedan through the bustling streets¡ªspices things up a bit. But, uh... she''s a bit of a mess at the moment and isn''t fit for visitors."


    Even Yn''s cheeks flushed slightly at this exnation.


    <i>Rich people are really something else!</i>


    "If you don''t believe me," Lucas teased, "why not lift the curtain and see for yourself?"


    Keqing tensed up even more at his words, her voice quivering as she called out, "If you dare lift that curtain... I''ll end my life right here!"


    Yn''s hand, just inches from the curtain, paused.


    If Lucas was telling the truth, barging in uninvited would be a massive embarrassment.


    Besides, the real Thunder Rakshasa would hardly conspire with someone from her own revenge list.


    "My apologies," Yn withdrew her hand with a slight nod. "However, carrying out such activities in public is rather improper. Please exercise discretion."


    "Oh, I don''t think so," Lucas replied with a shameless grin. "Indulging in little pleasures is what I live for. And Miss Yn, if you''re ever interested, you''re wee to join me. I''d arrange for myrgest sedan¡ªenough room for anything you''d like."


    At first, Lucas''s words seemed harmless enough, but considering his earlierments, they took on a distinctly flirtatious undertone.


    Although Yn felt a surge of irritation at this womanizing young master''s teasing, she kept herposure and raised her hand. "Fall back!"


    "Wonderful!"


    Lucas immediately let out an approving cheer.


    "What did you say?" Yn raised an eyebrow, scrutinizing him. "Why so pleased? Are you happy to see us go?"


    "You... you misheard!" Lucas quickly improvised with a grin. "When you raised your hand just now, Miss Yn, I noticed your armpit¡ªsmooth as jade, with not a hair to be seen. Pure perfection. I was merely admiring that, saying ''perfect pits.''"


    At this, even the soldiers apanying Yn couldn''t help but chuckle.


    Blushing, Yn tucked her arms in and red at Lucas. "You... watch yourself! Let''s go, men!"


    As Yn and the Soldiers finally left, Lucas breathed a sigh of relief. He turned back to the sedan, but as he reached for the curtain, there was a sudden tearing sound. A de pierced through the fabric, thrusting toward him.


    But knowing Thunder Rakshasa''s temperament, Lucas had anticipated this. He tilted his head to dodge the sword and smoothly slipped into the sedan, now sitting directly beside Keqing.


    Although the sedan was spacious, it still felt cramped with the two of them inside. Before Keqing could react, Lucas pressed a finger against a point on her neck. Keqing''s breath caught, and she passed out.


    Lucas'' skill in pressure points wasn''t a system reward; he had learned it himself thanks to his <i>Medical Sage</i> talent.


    This high-grade golden talent, beyond just medical expertise, also provided several additional abilities, like knowledge of medicinal properties, acupoint maniption, and therapeutic massage techniques. With some practice, each skill could be quite useful.


    "Y-young master..." came a hesitant voice from the sedan bearers outside. "What now?"


    Lucas ced a hand on Keqing''s shoulder, savoring the faint fragrance around her, and replied with a grin, "Back to the manor!"


    After all, he only had three hours here, and he had things to wrap up in that time.


    ---


    <i>SPLASH!</i>


    A cold bucket of water jolted "Thunder Rakshasa" Keqing awake, sputtering and coughing.


    She immediately surveyed her surroundings with suspicion. She was in a dim, small room, sparsely furnished with a few punishment tools, and a single small window through which a sliver of moonlight streamed.


    Keqing herself was bound to a wooden cross, her hands tightly tied to the frame with thick ropes.


    "Good evening, Miss Thunder Rakshasa," Lucas greeted her with a smile. "Though, personally, I still prefer calling you Keqing."


    "Where am I?" Keqing asked coldly. "An interrogation room?"


    "No need to worry. We''re from a proper family; we don''t use those kinds of facilities." Lucas waved dismissively. "This is merely a holding room used to discipline unruly servants. You know, some people only respond to firm discipline."


    "Spare me the chatter," Keqing snarled through gritted teeth. "It''s my bad luck to have fallen into your hands. Do whatever you like, but remember this: even if I die, I''ll haunt you. I''ll make sure you never get a single night''s rest again!"


    "I''ve known many beautiful women, but I''ve yet to experience a beautiful ghost," Lucas replied cheekily. "Rx; I''m not going to kill you."


    "Save it!" Keqing sneered. "Don''t think that''ll make me forgive you. As long as I live, you''ll never have peace."


    "I''m not sparing you out of kindness, nor to seek forgiveness," Lucas clicked his tongue. "It''s simply because you... don''t have much time left."


    "What are you talking about?" Keqing was taken aback.


    "Have you not noticed?" Lucas shrugged. "The Abyss''s power has already begun to consume you."


    "Don''t try to deceive me," Keqing replied icily. "I know my own body better than anyone."


    "You don''t understand at all." Lucas reached forward, pressing a finger just below her navel.


    "What... what do you think you''re doing?" Keqing''s face flushed, and she snapped, "Take your hand off me!"


    Ignoring her, Lucas applied a slight pressure, causing a sharp, intense pain to shoot through her abdomen.


    "How... how can this be?" Keqing gasped, sweat beading on her forehead. "What did you do to me?"


    "You''ve been used by the Abyss Order," Lucas replied calmly.


    "Do you really think it''s so easy to obtain the powers of a Vision? Each time you wield the Abyss''s strength, your body incurs hidden injuries. I just pressed on your Gate of Origin point. If you don''t believe me, try pressing on your Marsh at the Bend, Shoulder Well, or Great Abyss points; you''ll feel the same pain." (AN: Yes they''re all real names)


    "So what?" Keqing sneered defiantly, as though she had expected something like this. "If I have to die to kill you, I''ll dly pay the price."


    "But you''re not going to kill me, and you''re on the brink of death yourself," Lucas replied with a taunting smile. "Fortunately for you, I can''t stand seeing people suffer. So, I''ll give you two choices. First, you can spend the rest of your days in this dark holding cell. If I''m ever in the mood, I mighte by to... entertain myself with you."


    "And the second option?" Keqing asked, her eyes cold.


    "A deal," Lucas snapped his fingers. "I can use medicine and medical techniques to counteract the side effects of the Abyss''s power. In return, you''ll work for me as my informant within the Abyss Order."


    "An informant in the Abyss Order?" Keqing''s face showed a flicker of curiosity. "What''s your goal?"


    "The Geo Archon is gone, the Tianshu is suffering from an illness, and the Yuheng''s seat is vacant," Lucas clenched his fist, a greedy smile spreading across his face. "If I canbine forces with the Abyss Order, I may just be able to sweep away all obstacles and ce Liyue in my hands!"


    In this reality, Lucas''s family was wealthy, but their businesses had been continually suppressed by the Liyue Qixing, particrly by the Tianquan, Ningguang. To the people of Liyue, Lucas was nothing but a spoiled, useless heir.


    Originally, he was destined to die under Thunder Rakshasa''s de, but with fate rewritten, Lucas thought... he might as well aim big.


    After hearing Lucas''s n, Keqing was stunned for a moment, then sneered. "Madman... absolutely mad! People say I''ve lost my mind, but you''re a thousand times, no, ten thousand times crazier than I am!"


    "If you don''t take a chance, how will you know?" Lucas replied nonchntly. "What''s life without a little gamble?"


    "Even if you actually go through with this, why should I help you?" Keqing red at him. "Don''t forget¡ªyou''re my enemy."


    "You''re wrong. I''m not your real enemy," Lucas''s expression grew serious. "Your enemy is the stifling rules, the atmosphere of bullying at school, the way the herd bands together to drive out the tiger. And... the silent majority who watched it happen."


    Lucas''s words left Keqing conflicted.


    Indeed, her tragedy hadn''te from one person alone. Her istion, her torment, the bullying she endured¡ªall stemmed from the monster known as "the atmosphere."


    "Yes, I was a despicable bully back then, but don''t forget," Lucas whispered in her ear, "when everyone else turned a cold shoulder, I was the only one by your side."


    "So, make your choice," he continued, extending both hands toward her with a smile. "Choose my left hand, and you can live out the rest of your life here. Choose my right hand, and together, we''ll tear open the belly of this monster called ''atmosphere'' and unleash chaos."


    A twisted smile spread across Keqing''s face. "Fine... but let me go first. You tied these ropes way too tight."


    "Tying down a tiger needs a firm hand," Lucas replied as he cut the ropes binding her. "Now, make your choice."


    "Can''t believe you actually untied me," Keqing smirked, rubbing her wrists. "Aren''t you worried I''ll go back on my word?"


    "If I can subdue you once, I can do it again," Lucas shrugged. "Now, hurry up; my arm''s getting tired."


    With a resounding p, Keqing''s hand met Lucas''s right hand in a firm grip.


    "If you disappoint me," she said, squeezing his hand hard enough to hurt, "I won''t let you off the hook."


    "While you were unconscious, I prepared a treatment to neutralize the Abyss''s influence on your body," Lucas said, pulling out an object shaped like a small torpedo. "This is it."


    "This... is a medicine?" Keqing looked skeptical. "It doesn''t look like something you''d swallow."


    "Oh, it''s a special family remedy, administered rectally," Lucas said with a straight face. "Once inside, it melts quickly at body temperature, releasing the medicine throughout your system."


    "Inside... where?" Keqing asked, momentarily at a loss.


    "Inside..." Lucas leaned close and whispered two words in her ear.


    "What?!" Keqing''s face turned crimson. "There''s no way!"


    "It''s for your own good," Lucas shrugged. "Oral administration won''t work. This method is the only way for your body to fully absorb the medicine."


    Seeing her hesitation, Lucas pressed further. "Keqing, do you really want to let the Abyss''s power consume you, turning you into a mindless monster?"


    "...Fine." Keqing turned her back to him, saying, "Just... administer it. But close your eyes."


    "You really don''t make this easy," Lucas chuckled. "It''s not like I''m a circus performer throwing knives blindfolded."


    "Just... get it over with!" Keqing urged, her voice flustered.


    ---


    Three minutester.


    "Hah..." Keqing exhaled, her expression slightly flustered. "Is that it? That wasn''t as difficult as I thought."


    "It''s quite simple, really," Lucas nodded. "In fact, it''s usually self-administered."


    "Then why did you..." Keqing trailed off before scowling. "Help me?"


    "It was a demonstration," Lucas replied shamelessly. "Would''ve been awkward if it went in the wrong ce."


    "Enough!" Keqing red at him. "From now on, we''ll meet at the Heyu Tea House on the first and fifteenth of each month to exchange information."


    "Got it." Lucas nodded. "You should go now, or the Abyss Order might grow suspicious."


    "Understood." Keqing nodded, ncing around. "Where''s the door?"


    "Oh? So you''re using the door?" Lucas asked, feigning surprise. "How unremarkable. I thought you''d vanish the moment I turned around."


    "Have you been reading too many novels?" Keqing replied, her eyes filled with exasperation. "I don''t mind cracking your skull open to see what''s inside."


    "The door''s that way," Lucas said, pointing with a grin. "Not escorting you out."


    "You''re not leaving?" Keqing asked, surprised.


    "I have some nning to do," Lucas replied. "I get my best ideas here."


    "Lunatic."

 Chapter 121: Villain Simulator, Ch 120

    <h4>Chapter 121: Viin Simtor, Ch 120</h4>


    Keqing sneered as she finally pressed her knees together, walking out in a strange manner.


    Clearly, leaving in a swift, mysterious fashion wasn''t very realistic in her current state.


    [Crisis resolved. Awarded Character Card: "Keqing ¨C Thunder Rakshasa"]


    A delicate card appeared, gentlynding in Lucas''s palm.


    The card''s artwork depicted Keqing herself, but dressed in the Abyss Order attire, her body faintly traced with ominous magical patterns¡ªthe "Rakshasa" version.


    In other words, it was essentially a new skin for Keqing!


    [Keqing ¨C Thunder Rakshasa]


    [Effect: Grants ess to the skill "Secret Sword: Celestial Expedition"]


    "A character card?" Lucas looked down at the card in his hand, puzzled. "What''s this supposed to do?"


    [Character Cards are a type of special reward. When carried, they grant bonuses rted to the character. In addition, using a character card allows the yer to either teleport to the character''s location or summon them to your side.]


    After a long absence, the system finally responded, answering Lucas''s question in its usual manner.


    "Oh, there you are, System¡ªit''s been a while," Lucas snickered. "Let''s hear it. How much have you been keeping from me? Were you intentionally misleading me, or are you just trying to dodge for as long as you can?"


    [This system provides answers based on situational logic. I am, however, curious. Even after learning the "truth" about the Simtor, do you still choose to be a viin?]


    Lucas''s system certainly had a knack for "adapting to circumstances."


    For as long as Lucas had been questioning the system''s mechanics, it had always fabricated "reasonable" exnations, convincing him that all his viinous actions in the Simtor were simply part of a "game" without real consequences.


    But the appearance of Alice, who could traverse dimensions, had made Lucas realize the Simtor''s reality.


    Had the system failed?


    No, it had seeded.


    After all, through ying the viin across these Simtor scenarios, Lucas hade to ept his dark side. Or perhaps, he had started to understand the true nature of "evil."


    In response to the system''s question, Lucas asked back, "System, of all the parallel worlds you''re aware of, is there any worldpletely free of viins?"


    [None. With light, there is shadow; with purity, there is impurity. And with goodness... there will inevitably be evil.]


    "Exactly. I''vee to understand," Lucas said calmly. "If this world must have a viin, then why can''t that viin be me?"


    [What?]


    "Now I have a dream¡ªto be the ultimate viin" Lucas proimed, cing a hand over his heart with resolute conviction. "If I''m destined to be the viin, then I''ll rise to the very top and rule over all viins."


    Lucas'' thoughts were simple: if he couldn''t change his role as a viin, he might as well climb to the pinnacle of viiny, bringing "evil" under his own control.


    In this way, he could transform "chaotic evil" into wful evil."


    Even the system seemed taken aback by Lucas''s answer.


    In truth, Lucas wasn''t the first to undergo the Viin Simtor''s trials, but previous participants had almost always met tragic ends.


    Some couldn''t ept their evil deeds and chose to end their own lives.


    Others were consumed by malice, straying down a dark path with no happy ending.


    And still others simply gave up, living in a constant, numbed state.


    But a participant like Lucas, who embraced the concept of "evil" and aspired to reach the pinnacle of viiny... the system had never seen before.


    Perhaps... this man might actually change something.


    [Whatever path the host chooses, this system will do its utmost to assist.]


    "No need for the formalities," Lucas scoffed. "I just have one small request¡ªwhen I ask you questions, could you avoid dodging them from now on?"


    [Within the bounds of my permissions, I will answer all the host''s questions.]


    <i>How artful,</i> Lucas thought sarcastically.


    "By the way," he added, "aside from entering this dimension, can I ess other Simtor worlds?"


    [Yes, but only within the moments before your death in each one, as in this instance.]


    In other words, even if he entered other dimensions, he would only be able to experience his character''s final moments.


    If he entered a scenario where his character died of natural causes, he would still die peacefully, without changing the storyline.


    It was like a novel nearing its end: even if he edited the ending, it wouldn''t alter the preceding plot.


    However, in those dimensions where he "died prematurely," he just might have the chance to defy fate.


    [Three hours have psed. The yer has survived and will be returned to the game world.]


    With the appearance of this message, Lucas felt himself being transported back to the game board once again.


    "Daddy!"


    Klee, who had been waiting in ce, immediately leapt into his arms, her small voice full of relief. "Are you okay?"


    "Look, I''m perfectly fine," Lucasforted her, patting her head. "Your dad''s tougher than you think."


    "I knew nothing would happen to you." Jean also approached, curiosity evident on her face. "By the way, who was it that wanted to kill you?"


    Lucas hesitated. He couldn''t very well tell Jean that the person who wanted him dead was none other than his superior, Keqing.


    "Oh, just some crazy woman," he offered vaguely, changing the subject. "Speaking of which, where''s Barbara?"


    "Oh, don''t even ask! She felt embarrassed about being so big, so she wandered off alone to get some space," Jean sighed. "I was worried it might be dangerous for her, but... look."


    Following Jean''s gaze, Lucas saw that, given the ind''s small size, Barbara''s massive form was still visible in the distance.


    With her towering presence, she was likely impervious to danger here on this tiny ind¡ªor even back on the maind.


    "Let''s let her have some time alone," Lucas said, sitting down on the ground to rest. "I want to recharge a bit so that if there''s any more danger in the next round, I''ll be ready for it."


    Klee and Jean both nodded in agreement. After a few rounds of this game, they''d realized one thing: as long as no one rolled the dice, the ind remainedpletely safe.


    ---


    <i>Meanwhile, in a modest home in Mondstadt...</i>


    "Esteemed Father and Mother, I have returned," Fischl announced as she stepped into the house, offering her parents a formal bow. "May I inquire if Mother has prepared the evening feast?"


    "Ahem..."


    Her father, seated at the dining table with a newspaper, put it down and sighed. "Amy, you''re old enough now. Don''t you think it''s time to... stop with all this?"


    "Yes, you''re not a little girl anymore," her mother added, setting a stew on the table with a weary smile. "You should start to move on from these fairytales."


    "What... what are you saying?" Fischl asked, a hurt look on her face. "You weren''t like this before..."


    "Well, that''s because you were a child then, and of course, we wanted to make you happy," her father replied, patting her head gently. "Listen, starting tomorrow, how about letting go of these strange phrases and outfits, hmm?"


    "But how could it all be fake?" Fischl pointed to Oz perched on her shoulder. "You can see Oz, can''t you? He''s the King of the Night and proof of my true identity."


    "Amy! Stop it. We can''t see any raven friend of yours!" her father''s voice hardened. "Before, we pretended we could see it to make you happy. But there''s no Netherworld, no Oz, and no Prinzessin der Verurteilung. All of that... is nothing but fantasy!"


    "F-Fantasy?"


    Fischl looked back at her shoulder, only to find that her faithfulpanion Oz had vanished.


    Tears slipped down her cheeks in an instant.


    "Honey, don''t be so harsh on her!" Her mother rushed over, trying to soothe the girl. "It''s nothing unusual. We all have ''imaginary friends'' at some point. You just need time to let go of the fantasy."


    "Oz isn''t some imaginary friend!" Fischl''s voice cracked as she shouted, "He''s real!"


    With that, Fischl turned and ran out the door.


    "Amy!" Her mother tried to chase after her, but her father held her back.


    "Let her be. She needs some time to face things alone." He shook his head, looking defeated. "This wasn''t entirely her fault. If we hadn''t indulged her in all those role-ying games back then, maybe she wouldn''t have grown up like this."


    "Maybe we''re being too hard on her," her mother murmured thoughtfully. "Let''s talk to her once she''s calmed down."


    ---


    Fischl walked aimlessly through Mondstadt''s streets, her spirit shattered.


    Deep down, she knew. She''d always known. The so-called "Immernacht Realm" and her title as "Prinzessin der Verurteilung" were nothing more than fantasy.


    She clung to them all this time to mask her own weakness, unwilling to face reality.


    The truth was that "Fischl" was a persona Amy had created to deceive herself, to escape into a world where she wasn''t just... ordinary.


    "So even Oz is fake?" Fischl wiped away a stray tear, muttering, "Did he vanish because I finally faced reality?"


    As if sensing her despair, a thunderp suddenly echoed through the sky, followed by a bolt of lightning. In an instant, rain poured down, draping the entire city in a heavy, relentless curtain.


    Within seconds, Fischl was drenched, her once-pristine dress clinging to her, soaked and bedraggled.


    "Well, well, isn''t that the Prinzessin herself?"


    "I''d say she looks more like the ''Drenched Duchess''! Hah!"


    "She''s probably talking to that invisible raven of hers again. My mom says she''s not right in the head!"


    "Such a shame... she''s cute but totally nuts."


    A few passing kids, sheltered under their umbres, caught sight of Fischl''s miserable state and began mocking her.


    On any other day, proud Fischl would have stood up, hands on her hips, and fired back at them. But now, she only hugged herself, lowering her head in silence.


    "Enough, you noisy brats!"


    With a sudden, icy voice, a figure appeared, and raindrops began to freeze into hailstones, crashing down and leaving holes in the kids'' umbres.


    "It''s that wicked woman from the Lawrence family!"


    "R-run!"


    Fischl looked up, surprised, to find a tall woman with blue hair standing over her, an umbre shielding them both from the rain. The woman raised an eyebrow, smirking. "It''s you, huh? What, couldn''t get your big bird to shield you from the rain?"


    It was E.


    Fischl''s eyes widened. "You... can you see Oz?"


    "What are you talking about?" E frowned. "Of course I can see him. What, did you cook him for stew?"


    "Of course not! Oz... he just disappeared." Fischl''s voice dropped, sounding deste. "I... can''t find him anywhere."


    "I know someone," E replied with a small smile. "He might be able to help you."


    "Who?" Fischl asked eagerly.


    "Lucas, of course. Isn''t he supposed to be your loyal ''vassal''?" E raised an eyebrow. "Besides, I get the feeling there''s not much he can''t fix. You''ll probably find him at the Knights of Favonius."


    "You''re right!" A flicker of hope reignited in Fischl''s eyes. "I''ll go to him right away!"


    "Hold on," E said, passing her umbre to Fischl. "Take this with you."


    "But..." Fischl took the umbre, confused. "What about you?"


    "Watch and learn."


    E lifted her hand, forming a delicate umbre of ice, shimmering and beautiful.


    "Thank you..." Fischl said gratefully, then hesitated. "But... why are you helping me?"


    She knew that her rtionship with E wasn''t exactly friendly, especially after their previous sh over Lucas.


    "I don''t know. Maybe it''s because..." E paused, then shrugged. "In everyone else''s eyes, we''re both ''outsiders,'' I suppose."


    "You''re not an outsider," Fischl replied, taking a few steps before ncing back with a grin. "You''re just... a little too grumpy, that''s all."


    "This girl... After getting help, she''s got the nerve to tease me." E chuckled softly. "I''ll remember this grudge."


    ---


    Knights of Favonius Headquarters, Captain''s Office.


    "Sorry to intrude," Fischl announced as she pushed open the office door. "The gate guard told me that Lucas was here... huh?"


    ----


    Author''s Note: Next extra chap at 1800 :)

 Chapter 122: Villain Simulator, Ch 121

    <h4>Chapter 122: Viin Simtor, Ch 121</h4>


    The office was empty; not only was Lucas nowhere to be seen, but the room seemedpletely deserted.


    At this hour, Jean should have been hard at work here.


    "Wait, what''s this?" Fischl''s eyes quickly fell on a beautifully crafted game board on the desk. She moved closer, murmuring to herself, "What a gorgeous chessboard."


    As a girl with a natural attraction to beautiful objects, Fischl found herself enchanted, especially by the mysterious aura surrounding the board and its pieces.


    Almost instinctively, her fingers brushed against the board. In that instant, a brilliant light erupted from it, swallowing Fischl whole.


    ---


    Meanwhile, back in the game world...


    "Alright, I think I''ve rested enough," Lucas said, dusting the sand off himself as he stood. "Shall we continue our game?"


    "Yes, we''ve taken enough time," Jean replied, though her mind was clearly still preupied with her duties back home. "I hope I don''te back to too big a pile of work."


    Lucas stretched his arms, but just as he began, a sh of purple light burst above him, and suddenly, a slender young girl fell from the sky, crashing right on top of him.


    "Where... am I?" Fischl muttered, looking around in confusion. "Captain Jean, Klee... what is going on?"


    "We''ll exin thatter," came a groaning voice from beneath her. "But for now, could you please get off me?"


    Only then did Fischl realize she was sitting on someone. She scrambled up, shocked, as Lucasy on the ground with a look of exasperation. "Good thing you didn''t fall a few inches over... or else..."


    "My loyal retainer! Atst, I''ve found you!"


    Fischl''s face lit up as she recognized him. "I have an important mission for you!"


    "Hold on a moment!" Lucas said, frowning. "How did you end up here?"


    "I... I came to the Knights of Favonius looking for you," Fischl said, scratching her head. "But you weren''t in the office, and when I identally touched the chessboard on the desk, it somehow transported me here. So... where exactly is this ce?"


    "Let me give you the short version," Jean said as she briefly exined what had happened.


    "This ce... is it really that magical?" Fischl''s eyes sparkled with excitement, her inner fantasies igniting. "It''s almost like the fabled realm of my homnd, the Immernachtreich!"


    As soon as she spoke, the entire "scene" around them began to shift visibly.


    The vast sea stretched away, transforming into endless castle walls.


    The soft sand beneath their feet became a solid, stone floor.


    And in the distance, what had been a mountain turned into a towering, majestic castle!


    "Wow!" Klee bounced with excitement. "Fischl, you''re amazing!"


    "This is... strange," Jean muttered in surprise. "Fischl, did you do all this?"


    "I have no idea!" Fischl looked around, equally startled. "But... it''s exactly like the Immernachtreich I always imagined... I mean, my homnd."


    "I get it now!" Lucas eximed as the realization dawned on him. "This game world was originally shaped by Klee''s imagination, but once Fischl entered, it started responding to hers..."


    He added, "And because Fischl''s fantasy is much more intense, it''spletely taken over the world, turning it into the Immernachtreich!"


    "Oh-hohohoho!"


    At that moment, a haughtyugh rang out from above. "So you followed me all the way here, little Amy?"


    Everyone looked up, startled, to see a blonde girl floating in midair. She looked exactly like Fischl, except she wore a luxurious purple-and-blue dress with mismatched thigh-high stockings, perfectly entuating her slender legs.


    Beside her, a massive ck raven circled, unmistakably Oz.


    "There are two Fischls!" Klee eximed. "But which one''s the real one?"


    "Obviously, I am," the floating Fischl scoffed. "I am the true Prinzessin der Verurteilung, ruler of the Immernachtreich and rightful master of Oz. You, however, are just a pitiful wretch who refuses to face reality."


    "<i>Oz!</i>" Fischl cried, spotting her ravenpanion beside the doppelganger. "Don''t let her deceive you¡ªI''m your true master!"


    But Oz didn''t respond. He simply perched on the shoulder of the other Fischl.


    "Oz serves me, the true Prinzessin der Verurteilung," the doppelganger mocked, "not a pathetic, ordinary girl like you. Go back to your world and live as a wretched little human."


    With those words, the other Fischl and Oz soared higher into the air, disappearing into the top floor of the dark castle.


    "Oz!"


    Fischl fell to her knees, her voice trembling as she wept. "Don''t leave me... you''re my only friend..."


    As her tears fell, the world around them began to destabilize, like peeling ster crumbling away from the walls.


    This was a realm built on imagination, and as Fischl faced reality, her vision of it started to copse.


    "My princess!"


    Just then, Lucas knelt in front of her, one knee on the ground. "Now''s not the time to give in. Will you allow that impostor to steal away your kingdom, your people, and, above all, your dearest friend?"


    "L-Lucas..." Fischl murmured, biting her lip.


    "I''m not Lucas. I am the King of the Undead," he said, extending a hand to her. "Your loyal knight and cleric await you, ready to help you reim what''s yours."


    With a meaningful nce, he gave Jean and Klee a quick signal.


    "Th-that''s right!" Jean quickly caught on, bowing. "The Dandelion Knight, at your service, Your Highness."


    "And Klee the Spark Knight!" Klee held up her hands. "Ready to st all the baddies for Fischl!"


    "Everyone..." Fischl looked at them, her expression filled with gratitude.


    "As for my undead army," Lucas added, helping her to her feet, "we''ll clear every obstacle from Your Highness''s path."


    "Oh-hohohohoho!"


    Revitalized, Fischl rose to her feet and let out a triumphantugh. "Indeed, I am the true Prinzessin der Verurteilung! My kingdom, my people, my castle... and Oz, I will reim them all!"


    In front of the group, a new game prompt appeared:


    [Due to the intervention of the Prinzessin der Verurteilung, Fischl, the rules have been modified.]


    [New Objective: Help Fischl be the true Prinzessin der Verurteilung.]


    "Look!" Klee pointed at the chessboard in surprise. "The board changed too!"


    Everyone looked down, and sure enough, the game board, once filled with images of beaches and oceans, had transformed into the dark castle of Immernachtreich.


    The goal nowy at the top floor of the castle, their of the other Fischl, the "false princess."


    "Seems like even with new rules, we''re still ying a board game," Lucas chuckled. "Captain Jean, would you like to roll the dice?"


    "Yes," Jean nodded, casting the dice in her hand.


    A roll of two and three¡ªfive spaces.


    [You have reached the entrance of the Immernachtreich castle, but a fierce, two-headed ogre blocks your way...]


    A towering creature materialized at the castle gates. Standing at least three or four meters high, the monster wielded a spiked club. The most terrifying part was the pair of grotesque heads on its neck, each leering with a menacing expression.


    What a twist¡ªso now they weren''t even ying chess; they''d switched to a full-on D&D campaign!


    Indeed, both the "two-headed ogre" with its ssic Dungeons & Dragons (DND) vibe and the narration style made Lucas feel like he was immersed in a tabletop RPG campaign.


    In such a game, yers take on the roles of various characters, each with unique abilities, and navigate adventures within a world governed by intricate rules.


    The thrill lies in the unexpected events and the immersive sense of stepping into the game. And now, Lucas and his team''s castle adventure felt strikingly simr to this kind of tabletop campaign.


    With a resounding "thud," the two-headed ogre hefted its weapon and began stomping towards them.


    "Ginn''s gonna tear you to pieces!" the left head roared. "Then hang you up to dry!"


    "No way, Gark likes ''em boiled!" the right head bellowed in a deep, grumbling voice. "Your tastes are awful!"


    Yes, the two heads on the ogre not only had distinct minds but could also carry on a full conversation with each other. Of course, given the ogre''s naturally low intelligence, having two brains wasn''t necessarily an advantage.


    "What...what a scary monster!" Even the usually brave Klee cowered, hiding behind Lucas. "Daddy! Beat it!"


    Without hesitation, Lucas conjured his Dragon Piercing Spear andunched it straight at the ogre''s chest.


    This move was strong enough to pierce even the most robust Geovishap Hatchlings, yet to his surprise, the ogre raised its spiked club and swung, effortlessly cleaving the spear in two.


    "Ginn''s angry now!" the left head bellowed, livid. "Ginn''s gonna eat all of you!"


    "If you didn''t eat so much, we wouldn''t be so fat," the right head grumbled.


    "Everyone, be careful!" Jean, sensing the unusual strength of this new creature, braced herself for a tough battle. "I''ll lead the charge!"


    Previously unable to join in due to her temporarily reduced size, Jean instinctively stepped up to protect herpanions now that she was back to her original form.


    Just as Jean had predicted, the monster possessed formidable strength and nearly imprable defense. Though she struck it several times, her attacks barely scratched its thick hide.


    "Ground Smash!"


    The ogre mmed its club into the ground, creating a shockwave so intense that Jean lost her bnce and toppled to the ground.


    "Got you!"


    The ogre seized the moment, raising its club high to crush Jean. But she was prepared, a swirl of Anemo energy forming beneath her, ready to propel her out of harm''s way.


    However, just then, everything seemed to freeze. The enormous club halted mid-swing, suspended in the air, as if time itself had stopped.


    Not only that, but all movement around them ceased entirely, even Jean''s own.


    Then, a die appeared before her¡ªa d20, with twenty faces, each marked with a number.


    Jean wasn''t entirely unfamiliar with such dice. She recalled the Tianquan of Liyue had once sent her a game called <i>The Thousand-Year Liyue Saga,</i> which required simr beautiful dice to determine the oues of events.


    Next, lines of text appeared before everyone''s eyes.


    [In certain special circumstances in this game, a d20 will be used to determine the oue.]


    [Generally, the higher the roll, the more favorable the result. Conversely, a low roll may lead to disaster. Rolling a 20 signifies a "critical sess," while a roll of 1 is a "critical failure."]


    [Please roll to determine the result of the two-headed ogre''s attack.]


    "So, I have to entrust my fate to a single die?" Jean muttered with a frown but rolled the twenty-sided die with a mentalmand.


    The die ttered to the ground,nding with a crisp sound¡ªand came up 20!


    [Result: Critical Sess!]


    As soon as the roll was confirmed, the frozen scene resumed.


    The ogre''s club was mere inches from striking Jean when suddenly, two enormous hands descended, catching the ogre mid-swing and pinning it down.


    Even though the ogre was massive, the hands holding it made it look like a helpless chick, unable to resist.


    Those hands belonged to none other than Barbara, who had returned in her gigantic form.


    Having been sulking alone due to her sudden transformation, Barbara hade back just in time to see the creature "bullying" her sister. Already in a foul mood, anger surged through her.


    Without a word, she seized the ogre in her hands.


    "Oh...my..." Ginn''s left head stammered, staring up at the giant. "You''re...really tall!"


    "Let go of me!" Gark''s right head squirmed, struggling to break free. "I''m gonna squash that woman t!"


    "You darey a hand on my sister..."


    Barbara''s face darkened, her tone icy as she spoke through clenched teeth. "You can both... die!"


    Typically, gentle Barbara would never resort to violence. However, her fury had reached a boiling point as she watched the ogre threaten Jean.


    With a swift motion, Barbara closed her fists around the ogre, crushing the creature between her palms. Two anguished cries rang out before Barbara gritted her teeth and squeezed tighter.


    It was like crushing a ripe tomato¡ª"st!"¡ªand the ogre''s cries ceased abruptly as red liquid sttered through Barbara''s fingers.


    "Klee, don''t look." Lucas quickly covered Klee''s eyes.


    Barbara opened her hands, and the two-headed ogre, now reduced to a ball of mashed flesh, was casually tossed into the sea with a ssh, sending up arge wave.


    Then, calmly, Barbara summoned water elements to rinse the blood and remnants from her palms.


    "Sister, are you okay?" Barbara knelt beside Jean, checking her over. "Did that monster hurt you?"


    "I''m fine, but you..." Jean asked tentatively, "are you alright?"


    After all, Jean knew Barbara as someone who wouldn''t even step on an insect¡ªyet here she was, having crushed an ogre with her bare hands. Naturally, Jean was a little concerned.


    "Oh, I''m perfectly fine," Barbara sighed with relief. "Actually, I feel much better now."


    So the two-headed ogre had basically be her stress toy.


    "Oh, right!"


    Jean suddenly remembered something. "Did everyone else see the prompts?"


    The others nodded, though, aside from Lucas, they looked a bit puzzled.


    D20 dice are a staple in Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, so it made sense they might not be familiar.


    "Allow me to exin," Lucas began. "Back where I''m from, there''s a lesser-known but very interesting game."


    Holding up the game board, Lucas continued, "In this game, yers each y as unique characters with different abilities. They perform actions, and the dice determine their sess."


    "Yes, that seems to match the prompt''s instructions," Jean agreed. "But does that mean the rest of the game is just based on luck?"


    "Not quite¡ªit''s also linked to our own ''attributes,''" Lucas exined. "Let''s say, for example, Captain Jean has an agility stat of 10, but dodging the ogre''s attack required abined total of 20 agility points."


    "So if I roll a 10 or higher..." Jean nodded, piecing it together. "Adding that to my stat gives me the 20 needed to dodge, right?"


    "Exactly. But you lucked out and rolled a perfect 20, a critical sess," Lucas said, nodding. "So, not only did you avoid the attack, but Barbara also took the ogre out entirely."


    [You have defeated the mighty gatekeeper. The castle gates now stand open, and unknown adventures await you...]


    As the narration ended, the massive castle doors slowly creaked open.


    "Why bother with all that!" Lucas pped his knee, grinning at Barbara. "Barbara, why not just knock that whole castle down?"


    Indeed, with her towering form, the castle was no taller than her, and destroying it would be as easy as toppling a stack of building blocks.


    "No way!" Barbara huffed. "A properdy doesn''t do such crude things!"


    Not that her method of squishing the ogre was exactly dylike."


    "It actually isn''t a bad idea," Jean added thoughtfully. "It could save us a lot of trouble."


    "Even you, Sister?" Barbara sighed. "Fine, I''ll give it a try."


    "Yes! Giant Barbara''s gonna smash the castle!" Klee squealed with stars in her eyes. "I want to blow it up too!"


    "Hold on, Klee." Lucas patted her head. "Barbara''s bombs are a lot bigger than yours right now!"


    "What are you saying?" Barbara shot him a re, covering her backside defensively. "I can hear you!"


    "Just kidding!" Lucas quickly waved it off. "Go on, knock it down! And don''t worry¡ªno one''sing to stop you!"


    "Unbelievable!" Barbara cracked her knuckles and prepared to topple the castle. But just then, Fischl, who had been silent, cried out, "No... please don''t!"


    "Miss Fischl?" Barbara paused, recognizing the speaker. "What are you doing here?"


    "That''s not important right now," Fischl replied with a determined look. "Please forgive my insistence, but this castle houses the citizens and soldiers who protect the Immernachtreich. I can''t... allow them to be harmed."


    To the others, everything here might seem like a fantastical illusion.


    But for Fischl, who had just reimed her self-confidence, this ce was truly a part of the Immernachtreich¡ªit was real.


    Lucas, having once viewed the simtor as just a "game,"pletely understood how she felt.


    "Fischl has a point," Lucas agreed. "Destroying the castle without reason might not be wise."


    "Oh, right!" Klee nodded, eyes bright. "If we wreck it, then there won''t be any fun exploring it!"


    "Very well," Jean said, smiling. "It''s a beautiful castle, after all. It would be a shame to ruin it."


    "Thank you, everyone," Fischl said gratefully. "Fear not; this is my pce, and everything inside was designed by me. I''ll show you all who truly rules here."


    "d to hear it." Barbara rxed and took a step back. "I was starting to worry that if I did destroy this castle, I might turn into something... weird."


    After all, in most fairytales, only monsters and dragons made a habit of smashing castles.


    "Now then!" Barbara suddenly remembered. "Whose turn is it to roll?"


    "It''s Klee''s turn!" Klee beamed. "I''m so excited!"


    "Hurry up!" Barbara urged her. "Once this round''s over, I can go back to normal."


    "Got it!"


    Klee raised the dice high with a dramatic ir, as if hoping for a powerful roll. "Here we go!"


    She rolled a 1 and a 2, for a total of 3 steps.


    "Huh? Such a low number!"


    Klee looked disappointed. If it had been two 1s, she''d at least have gotten a re-roll. But as it was, 3 was the lowest possible oue.


    [yer will swap bodies with the closest girl until two matching dice rolls are achieved.]


    "Swap bodies?"


    Lucas raised an eyebrow, wondering aloud, "Wait... does this mean..."


    "What... what''s happening?"


    Klee looked at her hands in astonishment, her face full of disbelief. "I... I''ve turned into this little girl?"


    "Wow! This is amazing!" Meanwhile, Fischl examined her now smaller form with fascination, eximing, "Klee''s all grown up! Hooray!"


    Just as the event described, Klee and Fischl had indeed swapped bodies, with Fischl closest to Klee.


    "Could it be... Klee and Fischl¡ªyou two really switched bodies?" Jean seemed unable to believe her eyes. However, after all the strange things that had already happened, she couldn''t deny the possibility.


    "Daddy!" Klee squealed, throwing herself into Lucas''s arms with a wide grin. "Do you like this version of Klee?"


    Although Lucas knew the girl in his arms was really Klee, her body was Fischl''s¡ªa form older than Klee''s by just a few years but still notably different. Holding Klee was one thing, but having Fischl in such close proximity left him unsure where to ce his hands.


    "Don''t use my noble form for hugging other men!" Fischl blustered, only to pause as a realization dawned on her. "Wait a moment... Lucas... is Klee''s father?"


    Fischl hadn''t registered this detail before, but now, with Klee calling him "Daddy" so openly, she began to question their unusually close bond. Did he already have a wife and child?


    "Don''t be rmed," Jean murmured, noticing Fischl''s expression and quickly exining the situation.


    After Jean''s brief exnation, Fischl understood. It was a little unrealistic to assume Lucas had a daughter Klee''s age.


    "Klee¡ªno, I mean Fischl¡ªis absolutely right," Lucas said, gently pushing Klee out of his arms with a resigned smile. "Klee, you can''t just hug your dad whenever you want now."


    "But why not?" Klee looked up with a pout, her face full of disappointment. "Doesn''t Daddy like Klee anymore?"


    Lucas shook his head, saying, "It''s because you''re in Fischl''s body now."


    "But before, when Klee got big, Daddy was fine with hugging her!" Klee protested, ncing at her new form. "And Fischl''s body isn''t that different from Klee''s."


    In Klee''s mind, all the girls had different "ranks" in terms of stature: Jean was top-tier, Barbara second, and she and Fischl were about the same.


    "It''spletely different!" Fischl huffed. "Comparing my divine form to that of a mere child is beyond absurd!"


    Klee walked over to where Fischl was sitting in her own small form, scooping her up with curiosity. "So this is what it''s like to hold Klee?"


    "N-no, don''t just pick me up like that!" Fischl felt strange seeing her own body this way. "And don''t make such silly faces in my form!"


    "Fischl, can you do Klee a favor?" Klee asked earnestly.


    "W-what favor?" Fischl asked, puzzled.


    Klee handed her over to Lucas with a serious expression, saying, "Since Klee can''t hug Daddy now, please let Daddy hold Klee''s body in his arms for me, okay?"


    "W-why would I need to do that?" Fischl''s face turned red. "And... what''s even the point of it?"


    "Klee''s love or Klee''s body¡ªDaddy deserves at least one!" Klee dered solemnly. "Otherwise, Daddy will feel so lonely!"


    At that, Fischl shot Lucas a look of disdain as though he were beneath contempt.


    "Hey, don''t look at me like that!" Lucas protested. "I didn''t teach her to say that!"


    "I... I shall ept your request," Fischl said, unexpectedly nodding. "But in return, I have demands of my own."


    "No problem!" Klee nodded eagerly. "Klee will do anything you ask!"


    "Firstly, your speech!" Fischl insisted. "Since you''re using my body, you must refer to yourself as ''I,'' ''your princess,'' or ''Prinzessin der Verurteilung.'' Got it?"


    "Klee... No, I mean, <i>I</i> shall remember!" Klee said, nodding. "I am the Prinzessin der Verurteilung!"


    "Not quite!" Fischl corrected her. "Your stance is all wrong. When saying that, your hand goes here, your legs bend inward just slightly, and your waist¡ªkeep it firm..."


    "Uh..." Lucas coughed awkwardly. "Maybe we can save the lessons forter?"


    "No, we cannot!" Fischl said firmly. "The Immernachtreich is full of my loyal subjects. Should they witness their princess in such a graceless state, it would utterly ruin my royal dignity!"


    ---


    While Fischl instructed Klee in the art of noble posture, meanwhile, in the castle''s highest tower...


    This was the exclusive chamber of the true Prinzessin der Verurteilung, resembling Fischl''s own room back home, though much grander.


    The room held an array of "princess gowns" in various styles hanging on racks, as well as weapons collected from her expeditions across realms: the Starfall Staff that could summon meteor showers, the Heaven''s Edge de that could slice through the night, and the Shackling Ring, capable of imprisoning any target for eternity.


    Unlike Amy''s childhood toys, these were no imitations.


    But one wall of the room held something even more unusual.


    It was entirely covered in photographs.


    If Lucas saw this wall, he would be utterly shocked.


    Because each and every photo depicted him!


    Moreover, the Lucas in these pictures looked different from the real world. He wore an ostentatious ck coat with a massive cloak woven from dark feathers, his silver hair shining with a brilliant luster.


    The real Lucas''s face was merely pleasant-looking, but with a few small tweaks in these photos, he looked breathtakingly handsome.


    The otherworldly Fischl stood before the photo wall, her gaze filled with longing and adoration.


    "Soon, my Lord of the Undead, we shall be together for all eternity," she whispered, gently caressing her flushed cheek as she swayed in ce. "This castle shall be the sanctuary of our love!"


    With that, the alternate Fischl flung herself onto her bed, clutching an oversized body pillow emzoned with Lucas''s image and rolling around with it.


    "I can''t wait a second longer," she murmured, pressing a kiss to the pillow''s lips with a dazed expression. "My one and only Lord of the Undead..."


    Just then, a loud flutter of wings sounded as Oz flew in from the window,nding on a gleaming golden perch.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Hm well, take this long Chapter anyway, I''m trying to finish this game arc... next one at 2000 p.s.


    P.s Hurry up, the next simtion is going to be epic!

 Chapter 123: Villain Simulator, Ch 122

    <h4>Chapter 123: Viin Simtor, Ch 122</h4>


    "How''s everything looking, Oz?" Midnight Fischl sat up, gracefully brushing a strand of golden hair behind her ear. "How are those intruders doing?"


    "They appear to be preparing to enter the castle," Oz replied, bowing his head. "Everything is proceeding ording to n."


    "Oz..." Midnight Fischl narrowed her eyes. "You''re not still loyal to that other one, are you?"


    "You needn''t worry," Oz responded evenly. "I serve only one master, the true ruler of the Immernachtreich, Prinzessin der Verurteilung."


    "Exactly! <i>I</i> am the true Prinzessin der Verurteilung!" A self-satisfied smile appeared on Midnight Fischl''s face. "From this point forward, with the Lord of the Undead by my side, I shall restore the Immernachtreich to its former glory!"


    ---


    Two hourster...


    "I am the sovereign of the Immernachtreich, Prinzessin der Verurteilung!" Klee struck a dramatic pose, her expression serious as she intoned, "I shall cast judgment upon all sins in this realm and pierce through all hidden truths!"


    "Hmph, that''s... adequate, I suppose," Fischl rubbed her chin, as if evaluating Klee''s performance. "I''ll let it pass for now."


    "Yay!" Klee cheered, immediately switching to a proud expression. "The... um, this princess requires no approval from the likes of you!"


    "Klee..." Lucas couldn''t help but chuckle as he ced a hand on her shoulder, leaning down to whisper, "Maybe don''t get <i>too</i> into it."


    "I am not Klee! I am Prinzessin der Verurteilung!" Klee pounded her chest, her little face puffed with pride. "Sir... please mind your manners!"


    Watching his "daughter" gradually take on Fischl''s persona, Lucas felt a pang of mixed emotions.


    Who could have guessed that Klee would take to this so well? She wasn''t just "adequate"¡ªshe was on her way to outdoing even Fischl.


    Just then, Lucas felt a tug on his sleeve and looked down to see Fischl in Klee''s body, lightly pulling at his shirt with a resigned look in her eyes. "Hold... hold me, please. But don''t get the wrong idea¡ªthis is just part of the arrangement with Klee."


    Lucas couldn''t hold back a wry smile as he lifted Fischl into his arms. Though she appeared as Klee, the slight frown on her face gave her real identity away.


    Yet, knowing it was Fischl''s soul inside Klee''s body brought an unexpected feeling to the moment.


    "Don''t... don''t look at me like that!" Fischl muttered, ncing away. "It''s not as if... you''re anything more than a mere retainer."


    "That''s not true!" Klee stood with her hands on her hips, scolding Fischl. "You have to call him ''Daddy!''"


    "Huh?" Fischl blinked, surprised. "You want me to call him Daddy?"


    "Since I''ve fulfilled my role as Fischl, you should act just like me, too!" Klee nodded with all the seriousness of a princess. "Isn''t the Prinzessin der Verurteilung supposed to honor her word?"


    "Actually, it''s really not necessary..." Lucas interjected quickly. "It''s just a title, after all."


    "No, Klee''s right." To everyone''s surprise, Fischl shook her head, her gaze focused on Lucas as her cheeks flushed. "D-daddy..."


    The shame! The utter disgrace!


    To call another man "Daddy"¡ªfor the Prinzessin der Verurteilung, this was a humiliation that could go down in history.


    Though Fischl currently wore Klee''s face, the mental image in Lucas''s head was Fischl herself calling him "Daddy."


    Just then, Jean and Barbara returned from their scouting.


    Since they had already finished a turn in the game, Barbara had reverted to her usual size.


    "We checked the surrounding area," Jean reported, her tone serious. "There''s only one entrance¡ªthrough the main gate."


    "Thanks for the hard work." Klee raised an eyebrow and, imitating Fischl''s haughty tone, said, "Excellent work, my loyal knight and priestess. Rest assured, rewards shall be bestowed upon you in due time!"


    Barbara nced between the "Fischl" in Lucas''s arms and the "Klee" exhibiting maximum chuunibyou energy. "Have Fischl and Klee... switched back already?"


    "No, quite a bit happened while you two were gone," Lucas sighed. "Let''s move on with the game, then."


    "It''s my turn!" Barbara reached for the dice, but before she could roll, a message floated down from above.


    [Proceed into the castle to continue the game.]


    "Another rule change?" Jean looked thoughtful. "What does everyone think?"


    "In this situation, we don''t have much choice but to press forward." Lucas rubbed his chin. "That other Fischl has definitely set up some traps for us."


    Fischl opened her mouth to respond, but Klee was already standing at the castle entrance, pointing to the massive door with one hand on her hip. "Immernachtreich! The princess is here to reim you!"


    Evidently, Lucas had underestimated how deeply children could immerse themselves in role-y.


    What little girl hasn''t dreamed of being a magical princess at some point?


    In fact, this whole identity swap with Fischl seemed to have awakened something new in Klee.


    Please, Klee, Lucas thought to himself, <i>don''t grow up to be a strange kid</i>... If Alice finds out about this, she''ll probably tear me to pieces and feed me to the Hilichurls.


    ---


    Meanwhile, in the castle''s high tower, Midnight Fischl observed the scene at the castle gate through an ornate spyss.


    "Oh-hoho! So, little Amy, you actually dared toe inside?" Midnight Fischl lowered the ss, her face twisted into a sneering smile. "Fine, then. Once you''re in, I have a few delightful surprises in store for you."


    Without further dy, Lucas and the others passed through the castle gates. As they stepped into the grand hall, they immediately noticed a massive oil painting disyed above the staircase.


    The painting depicted Midnight Fischl seated on a grand chair, wearing an borate gown. In contrast to the original Fischl, her eye color was different, making it easy to distinguish their identities.


    Behind Midnight Fischl stood a tall, silver-haired man dressed in ck, his hand resting on her shoulder in an intimate manner.


    "What a narcissist..." Fischl muttered with a frown. "The real Prinzessin der Verurteilung would <i>never</i> unt herself like that!"


    Herment prompted the others to shake their heads¡ªconsidering Fischl''s usual personality, her counterpart was, if anything, the subtler of the two.


    "Wait, everyone, look at that man..."


    Klee''s eyes went wide with surprise. "He looks just like Daddy!"


    The others now turned their attention to the man in the painting.


    "There is a resemnce," Barbara squinted, studying the figure. "Though he''s, uh... a bit more handsome than Lucas."


    "Barbara!" Jean scolded, with a serious expression. "You shouldn''t say such things!"


    Lucas felt a swell of appreciation¡ªJean, with her high emotional intelligence, always knew how to say the right thing.


    But then Jean continued, "It''s wrong to lie, especially when it''s <i>a lot</i> more handsome."


    Thanks, Jean.


    "Don''t worry, Daddy!" Klee chimed in, patting Lucas reassuringly. "To the princess, you''re still the most handsome of all!"


    Hey, wait, whose role are you ying?


    "That man is likely just a figment of her imagination," Fischl said, seeming to understand his identity instantly. "I know her better than anyone else, after all."


    "It looks like we can roll the dice again." Barbara lifted the dice in her hand. "Is everyone ready?"


    With a nod from the others, Barbara tossed the dice.


    Four and five. Nine spaces.


    [The adventurers entered the castle, unaware of impending danger. The ground shook suddenly, and hidden creatures reached out with monstrous ws!]


    "Well, that certainly rhymed..."


    But before Lucas could finish his sentence, the ground began to tremble violently, just as the message had warned. A portion of the floor copsed, revealing a massive pool beneath.


    From the murky depths, a colossal octopus-like creature surfaced, its thick tentacles iling toward the group.


    Before anyone could react, each of them found themselves ensnared by the creature''s slimy limbs.


    "Ew... disgusting!" Barbara squirmed as the creature''s sticky tentacles squished against her, an ufortable grimace on her face. "What should we do?"


    "Barbara, don''t worry!" Jean, despite being trapped as well, spoke up to reassure her. "I''ll protect you!"


    But the creature''s tentacles were incredibly strong. Even with Jean''s full strength, she couldn''t break free. The tentacle wrapped around her body, binding her tightly with surprising force.


    Though it was a dangerous situation, Lucas couldn''t help but nce over at Jean, thinking how many men in Mondstadt would envy him for witnessing such a scene. This was like something straight out of, well... a certain kind of story.


    Still, it was hardly the time for sightseeing.


    "Barbara, try wrapping the tentacles with your Hydro element!" Lucas suggested. "Hurry!"


    Though puzzled, Barbara immediately summoned a wave of water that enveloped both her body and the creature''s tentacle.


    At that moment, a twenty-sided die appeared in front of Barbara, rolling to reveal a result of 12.


    [Dice Roll Result: 12]


    [Check Result: Sess]


    [The tentacle loses strength from absorbing too much water.]


    The tentacle surrounding her ckened and eventually released Barbara, who fell to the floor, drenched and covered in a slimy film.


    The octopus, as a sea creature, couldn''t handle the freshwater effects on its tentacles due to osmotic pressure. Lucas''s theory was spot-on; in a game, there''s always a way to seed, and this test seemed to focus on their elemental control.


    "Everyone, try using your own elemental powers!" Lucas gripped his tentacle and prepared to freeze it using Cryo energy.


    Just like Barbara, a twenty-sided die appeared before him.


    [Dice Roll Result: 9]


    [Check Result: Sess]


    [The tentacle shatters from the cold.]


    As expected, the icy energy from Lucas''s hand froze the tentacle around him, causing it to break apart.


    "I see!" Jean eximed, catching on quickly. "Winds! Slice it to pieces!"


    [Dice Roll Result: 14]


    [Check Result: Sess]


    [The tentacle is sliced into pieces by wind des.]


    A whirlwind of sharp wind des surrounded Jean, swiftly severing the tentacle holding her into sashimi-sized pieces.


    "These tentacles pose no threat to the Prinzessin der Verurteilung!" Dered Klee in character as she tried to summon fire. "Endless mes of the abyss, burn them to ash... huh?"


    But to her confusion, Klee couldn''t summon any mes at all.


    "Oh no!" Lucas called out, realizing the issue. "You''re still in Fischl''s body!"


    "Oh, right!" Klee finally remembered that with her new body, she didn''t have ess to Pyro energy. But she had no idea how to use Electro instead.


    The dice didn''t give Klee any time to learn.


    [Dice Roll Result: 3]


    [Check Result: Failure]


    [Dragged into the bottomless abyss!]


    "Waaah!!"


    Klee was suddenly yanked forcefully by the tentacle, which pulled her straight into the water.


    "<i>My body!</i>"


    Seeing her own body dragged under, Fischl''s panic surged, and sparks of Pyro energy flickered around her small frame.


    [Dice Roll Result: 20]


    [Check Result: Critical Sess]


    [Intense mes incinerate the octopus into ashes.]


    mes erupted from Fischl''s body, scorching the giant octopus to a crisp, filling the air with the scent of grilled seafood.


    But even with the octopus defeated, Klee, already pulled under, still hadn''t resurfaced.


    "Hurry! We have to save her!" Without thinking, Fischl moved to jump into the water, but Lucas caught her in midair, holding her tightly.


    "Don''t be reckless!" Lucas said, trying to keep her calm. "Klee is probably fine."


    "How could she be?" Fischl''s voice trembled with worry. "What if she drowns? Isn''t she... your daughter?"


    "Take a good look," Lucas raised his voice slightly to snap her out of her panic. "This game world is built from Klee''s imagination. If she were really in danger, this world would have copsed already. And look¡ªher game piece is still on the board. That means she''s safe."


    "You see?" Barbara pointed at the pool, where the water had somehowpletely disappeared. Everyone peered inside to find it was little more than a shallow basin, barely a meter deep. Insidey only the charred remains of octopus tentacles¡ªno sign of Klee, now in Fischl''s form.


    Everyone let out a sigh of relief, especially Jean.


    Though Klee called Lucas "Daddy," Jean was Klee''s official guardian. If anything were to happen to Klee, who knows what Alice would do¡ªdestroying half of Mondstadt wouldn''t be out of the question.


    "But then... where could she be?"


    Fischl had a sudden realization. "I get it! That impostor must have taken her! They might''ve mistaken Klee for me!"


    "B-but wouldn''t they be able to tell?" Barbara wondered, looking doubtful. "Even if they swapped bodies, there are still... obvious differences."


    "I... certainly hope so," Fischl replied, looking slightly embarrassed.


    For now, she could only hope that Midnight Fischl was sharp enough to realize she''d taken the wrong Fischl.


    "That actually puts me at ease," Lucas said with a nod. "Midnight Fischl would never harm Klee."


    "How can you be so sure?" Fischl asked, suspicious. "Do you know her that well?"


    "It''s simple. Midnight Fischl is a product of your imagination. If Fischl were to die, she would also cease to exist," Lucas reasoned. "I suspect her goal is to make you, Fischl, fully ept your ''ordinary'' self. Then, she can be the true Prinzessin der Verurteilung."


    "That makes sense!" Fischl clenched her fists, eyes determined. "I''m not giving up on anything¡ªnot on the Immernachtreich, not on the Prinzessin, and certainly not on Oz!"


    "There''s something I''ve been meaning to ask you," Lucas said as if he''d suddenly remembered. "The Oz beside Midnight Fischl¡ªare you sure that''s really <i>your</i> Oz?"


    Midnight Fischl was born purely out of Fischl''s imagination. Before Fischl entered the board, Midnight Fischl hadn''t even existed. So how did Oze to be in this world?


    "Of course he is!" Fischl nodded firmly. "I can feel a connection between us!"


    "If you want the truth, we''ll just have to keep ying," Jean said, wiping off the sticky residue left by the octopus tentacles with a grimace. "But first, is there any way to clean ourselves up a little?"


    "Yes, please!" Barbara agreed, equally repulsed. "We''re never going to get anywhere like this!"


    Indeed, the four of them were covered in sticky slime from their recent encounter with the octopus. Barbara, especially, was drenched, her clothes clinging tightly to her body in a rather undignified fashion.


    "That''s easy," Lucas suggested, pointing to the empty basin. "Barbara can fill it with Hydro, then Fischl can heat it up with Pyro. We''ll have ourselves a makeshift bath."


    "Good idea!" Jean nodded. "We can wash our clothes too, then I can use Anemo to dry them quickly."


    "It shouldn''t be too difficult, but..." Barbara shot Lucas a sidelong nce. "There''s nothing to block the view here. It''s not like we can just bathe with him watching."


    "But I''m filthy too..." Lucas tugged at his sticky cor. "How about I just turn my back and keep my eyes closed?"


    "Good point!" Fischl chimed in. "It''s not like he hasn''t been teased by E before."


    "That was ages ago!" Lucas sighed. "How long are you going to hold that over me? Besides, even if you were back in your own body, there wouldn''t be much to see."


    "You¡ª!" Fischl was left speechless with rage, though ncing at Jean and Barbara, she had to admit they were both, admittedly, a bit more... endowed.


    Especially Jean, whose figure was a top contender on Mondstadt''s "Most Desired" list in <i>Mondstadt Adventurers Weekly.</i> Incidentally, the Knights'' Lisa, E, and Sister Rosaria from the Church were also frequently featured in the rankings.


    "Barbara, this isn''t the time to be worrying about such things," Jean said with utmost seriousness. "I trust Lucas."


    "Captain Jean..." Lucas''s heart swelled with gratitude.


    "But to safeguard my sister''s modesty..." Jean said, suddenly producing a strip of cloth and wrapping it over Lucas''s eyes. "I''m afraid we''ll have to take some precautions."


    Poor Jean had no idea that Barbara''s innocence had long since beenpromised by the very man before her.


    ---


    While the group busied themselves with their impromptu bath, things were taking a different turn in Midnight Fischl''s pce.


    "Cough, cough!"


    Klee blinked her eyes open, slightly disoriented, only to find herself lying on an oversized, luxurious bed.


    "Oh, you''re finally awake."


    Midnight Fischl, with her signature golden hair and piercing pink eyes, sat in front of Klee, a cold smile on her lips. "I can''t believe how easy it was to capture you. I expected more of a challenge."


    "You''re... the other Fischl..." Klee started, but then quickly remembered Fischl''s instructions¡ª<i>"Whatever happens, stay in character as the Prinzessin."</i>


    With that in mind, Klee sprang from the bed, striking the dramatic pose Fischl had painstakingly taught her, and proimed with utmost seriousness, "I am the true Prinzessin der Verurteilung, Fischl! You are nothing but an impostor!"


    "Hmph. You are merely my shadow," Midnight Fischl sneered. "To create such a grand fantasy and then be crushed beneath its weight... To me, you''re nothing but a coward hiding from reality."


    The words were carefully chosen, intended to pierce the heart of the real Fischl. Midnight Fischl was certain they''d deal a severe blow.


    Unfortunately, her n was lost on Klee. Unfazed, Klee nodded cheerfully and even boasted, "Yep, that''s exactly what I am!"

 Chapter 124: Villain Simulator, Ch 123

    <h4>Chapter 124: Viin Simtor, Ch 123</h4>


    Klee extended her thumb, her expression exactly like that "I don''t care" meme face.


    Wait... is shepletely unfazed?


    Klee''s reaction left Midnight Fischl slightly puzzled, and her response only reinforced the notion that she was, indeed, the "real" Fischl.


    "It seems you''ve epted that you''ve lost your ''power of imagination,''" Midnight Fischl sneered. "Then watch closely!"


    She twirled elegantly in ce, and her gown transformed as if by magical girl transformation.


    "Behold! This is the power of imagination!" Midnight Fischl smirked proudly. "Little Amy, can you do that?"


    "Wow! Amazing!" Klee closed her eyes, pressing her fingers to her temples as if concentrating. She furrowed her brows and muttered, "I can do that too. Behold!"


    Then, with a sudden ssh, a full bucket of water appeared out of nowhere, dousing Midnight Fischl from head to toe. Fish flopped around in the slick pool on the polished wooden floor, with one small fishnding directly atop her head.


    "Quit conjuring up this nonsense!" Midnight Fischl shook her head to dislodge the fish, but the episode only added to her growing doubts.


    Midnight Fischl''s very existence stemmed from the "lost fantasies" of Fischl. Theoretically, her power of imagination should''ve been much weaker by now.


    In that case, I''ll have to take things up a notch!


    With a smirk, Midnight Fischl waved her hand. "Oz,e here!"


    Obeying hermand, Oz flew over andnded before her, bowing respectfully. "How may I serve you, my queen?"


    "Tell me, Oz!" Midnight Fischl raised an eyebrow. "Who is your true master¡ªme or her?"


    "It is naturally you, my queen," Oz said, without sparing Klee a nce.


    "Then let little Amy," Midnight Fischl sneered, snapping her fingers, "witness just how close we are!"


    At the snap of her fingers, Oz''s form was enveloped in dark feathers, and when the feathers dispersed, a curvaceous woman with ck hair and eyes stood before them.


    Midnight Fischl wrapped her arms around Oz''s human form in an intimate embrace, casting a smug look at Klee. "You see? Oz has transformed to match my essence!"


    "Wow!" Klee eximed, eyes wide. "So Oz is actually a girl?"


    "That''s... that''s not the point!" Midnight Fischl felt a surge of frustration. "Doesn''t it bother you to see us this close?"


    Midnight Fischl had assumed that openly unting her intimacy with Fischl''s closestpanion would leave Klee crushed. But instead, "Fischl" seemed entirely unaffected.


    Could it be I underestimated her resolve?


    "Wait, is that¡ª?"


    Klee''s eyes lit up as if she had made an incredible discovery. She walked over to a wall lined with portraits, each one depicting none other than the "Lord of the Undead." Her mouth fell open, wide enough to fit an egg. "It''s Daddy!"


    "What... what did you just call him?" Midnight Fischl''s eyes narrowed.


    "Daddy," Klee replied dreamily, rubbing her cheek against one of the photos with obvious affection. "That''s what I''ve always called him."


    Midnight Fischl was momentarily dumbstruck.


    So... this is what they do in their spare time?


    "No... no, you''re not allowed to call him that!" Midnight Fischl protested, jealousy ring. "He''s the Lord of the Undead! My destined love!"


    "Well, if you like Daddy that much..." Klee said with a mischievous grin. "Why not just be his daughter too?"


    "His... daughter?" Midnight Fischl repeated, stunned.


    "Yeah!" Klee nodded enthusiastically. "Wouldn''t you want to fall asleep in Daddy''s arms, have him feed you, and snuggle close with him?"


    "I... I..." Midnight Fischl''s face flushed bright red. "More than anything!"


    "Then go ahead and say it!" Klee urged her with an innocent, sparkling gaze. "Just say those words!"


    Midnight Fischl''s face turned a deep shade of crimson as she muttered, "D... Dad?"


    "Louder¡ªI can barely hear you!"


    "Dad.."


    "Louder!"


    "Daddy!"


    "Now say it a few more times!"


    "Daddy! Daddy! Daddy!"


    Off to the side, Oz, now in her human form, watched the two Fischls calling out to "Daddy" with a deadpan expression, as though it had nothing to do with her whatsoever.


    ---


    Meanwhile, back with the others...


    Barbara and the group had managed to fill the pool with warm water, transforming it into a makeshift hot spring.


    The four of them soaked in the pool, relishing a rare moment of peace.


    Though they hadn''t been in the board game for long, they''d already endured quite a lot, so this was a perfect chance to recharge and rx.


    "Ahhh... this is heaven," Jean sighed contentedly as she let herself sink into the warm water, the fatigue of the previous encounters melting away. "Thanks, Barbara."


    "If it makes you happy, that''s all that matters," Barbara replied, her cheeks slightly pink. "It''s nice to finally do something for you, Sister."


    "This pool is far too basic, though," Fischl said with a self-satisfied smile. "Once I reim the Immernachtreich, you can alle and enjoy a real royal bath!"


    While the three girls chatted happily, Lucas remained silent.


    With the "blindfold" over his eyes, he hadn''t moved too far from the others, but listening to their cheerful voices made him imagine the scene beyond his vision.


    Unbeknownst to Jean, the strip of cloth she''d torn off for his blindfold was made of rare, luxurious silk.


    Ordinarily opaque, the silk turned somewhat sheer when damp, and soon, a soft glow began to seep through the once-dark cloth, illuminating his vision.


    After a few moments, Lucas could even make out the blurred forms of the others through the translucent silk.


    This teasingly hazy view, tantalizingly unclear, stirred his imagination far more than a direct view might have.


    Just as he was debating whether to turn his back entirely, he noticed that Barbara had somehow drifted closer to him.


    Just then, Lucas suddenly sensed something was off, a distinct feeling as if something vital had suddenly been seized by someone else. His joystick was in someone else''s hand.


    Naturally, the person responsible was Barbara, who was right next to him.


    "Shh..." Barbara whispered softly into his ear, "You wouldn''t want anyone to notice, would you?"


    Although the water in the bath was crystal clear, theck of lighting in the great hallbined with the haze of steam made it difficult to see anything beneath the surface.


    "What... what are you trying to do?" Lucas frowned. "Aren''t you afraid of getting caught?"


    "Don''t worry, Jean and Fischl can''t see us," Barbara replied with a sly smile. "It''s the perfect chance."


    "Lucas?" Jean tilted her head, sounding a bit puzzled. "You''ve been awfully quiet. Is something wrong?"


    "It''s just that, sis, when girls are chatting, it''s normal for a guy to keep quiet," Barbara said calmly, covering for him. "And besides, even the thick-skinned would get a bit shy in a situation like this. Don''t you think?"


    "Yes, that''s right."


    Lucas quickly agreed, "No need to worry, Captain Jean, I''m perfectly¡ªah!"


    Suddenly, Lucas sucked in a sharp breath, causing Jean to ask, "Are you sure you''re alright?"


    "Yes... I''m fine!" he stammered. "It''s just... a bit too warm, that''s all."


    "If you soak too long, it can really wear you out," Jean said, looking a bit worried. "Maybe you should get out and cool off for a bit?"


    Get out? In his current state, there was no way he could stand up without things bing... awkward.


    "No need to worry, Sister." Barbara gave a mischievous smile. "He''s in great shape."


    She shot Lucas a gleeful, teasing look.


    "The volcano''s about to erupt," Barbara whispered, taunting him. "Let''s see if you can keep it together."


    "Don''t forget something important," Lucas replied, a mischievous grin forming. "Your sister is here in the bath too. If this volcano really erupts, she''ll be caught in the st as well."


    "Huh?"


    Barbara''s expression shifted as she realized it was far toote to send Jean out of the bath. Her only choice was to keep the volcano from erupting altogether.


    With that in mind, Barbara subtly shifted her position to help contain the situation.


    The volcano erupted, sending boilingva sttering onto the stone walls with a steamy hiss.


    The noble Barbara, with her timely intervention, had managed to preserve her sister''s dignity.


    "Barbara? You look a bit... off," Jean noted, eyeing her sister with concern. "Are you feeling light-headed from the heat?"


    "Y-yes... maybe I soaked a bit too long..." Barbara stammered, rising carefully from the bath. "We''re probably clean enough by now. The clothes should be dry, too."


    Even after they''d all gotten dressed, the blush on Barbara''s face hadn''t quite faded. Lucas, meanwhile, wore a faintly amused smile.


    "You''ve made a noble sacrifice today," he whispered, chuckling.


    "What are you grinning about!" Barbara shot back, still flustered. "I did it to protect my sister¡ªthat''s all!"


    "Oh, by the way," Lucas raised an eyebrow, "you might be interested to know that theva cools down quickly once it''s exposed. It wouldn''t have harmed your sister even if it had ''erupted.''"


    "You...you tricked me!" Barbara''s face turned even redder. "So, you nned this?"


    "You started it, didn''t you?" Lucas replied with a sly smirk. "You have to put out the fires you light."


    "Lucas, Barbara, no more chatting, please," Jean said, unaware of the underlying tension. "It''s time to get back to the game."


    This time, it was Lucas''s turn to roll the dice.


    Just as he was about to toss them, he paused.


    "What''s wrong?" Fischl asked curiously. "Are you nervous?"


    "No, I just thought of something," Lucas replied thoughtfully, eyeing the dice. "If that other Fischl can alter the rules through imagination, why don''t we try it too?"


    "Changing the rules through imagination?" Jean echoed, puzzled. "But wouldn''t that count as cheating?"


    "How could altering the rules be cheating?" Lucas grinned. "As long as we move the pieces to the goal ording to the dice, that''s what counts!"


    He held the dice in his palm, and when he opened his hand, the two six-sided dice had transformed into twenty-sided dice!


    Alchemy allowed Lucas to alter the dice as easily as he could summon fire from a volcano.


    "Of course!" Barbara eximed, realization dawning on her. "There''s nothing in the rules that says we have to use six-sided dice! If we use dice with higher numbers, we can reach the goal faster!"


    "Klee, Daddy''sing to save you!"


    Lucas threw the twenty-sided dice with a flourish. "Show me the numbers of destiny!"


    The dice spun wildly on the board, spinning like tops. Soon, one of them stopped on a "1."


    "Oh no!" Fischl cried. "Isn''t that the lowest number?"


    "Not quite finished yet!" Lucas pointed at the other still-spinning die. "Time to change the rules of inertia¡ªelerate!"


    With a sudden burst of speed, the remaining die spun frantically, giving off a buzzing sound, until it mmed into the first die.


    The impact sent the other die flying, whichnded on "20." The spinning die also stopped on "20."


    Forty steps!


    "Ah!" Klee looked around, then looked at herself, and said in surprise: "Klee has changed back!"


    "Klee!" Lucas immediately swept her into a hug, breathing a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness you''re safe!"


    Even though he''d known she wouldn''t be harmed, actually seeing her unharmed finally eased his worries.


    "Klee''s fine!" she chirped, smiling. "The other Fischl was really nice to me."


    "Really?" Barbara asked, surprised. "But isn''t she supposed to be the viin?"


    "No, Klee thinks she''s just lonely," Klee shook her head. "If we give her a chance, maybe she could even be our friend!"


    "That''ll be up to her," Lucas said, narrowing his eyes. "And I think we''ll be facing her soon."


    After trekking forty steps across the game board, their game pieces finallynded on the final destination.


    [Through trials and perilous paths, the final challenge awaits. A slumbering knight guards the gate, no army nor hero may pass.]


    The four adventurers now stood on a towering fortress wall, leading to the final tower. The walls were tall and thick, lined with massive ballistae¡ªa formidable defense zone, to be sure.


    Strangely, however, there were no guards along this path, only a single knight d in ck armor, seated at the doorway to Midnight Fischl''s chamber. He held a massive sword to prop himself up, his helmeted head bowed as if in deep slumber.


    ---


    Meanwhile, inside Midnight Fischl''s quarters...


    Fischl, now back in her own body, found herself in a setting eerily identical to her own room.


    Her "rival," Midnight Fischl, sat nearby, clutching a photo and gazing at it with a dreamy smile, murmuring, "Daddy... heh... Daddy."


    "You... what are you doing?" Fischl asked in disgust. "Are you out of your mind?"


    "Huh?" Midnight Fischl snapped out of her trance, staring at Fischl. "Aren''t you the one who told me to call him that?"


    "So that''s it..." Fischl said with a smirk. "I swapped bodies with that little girl earlier, and you didn''t even notice, did you?"


    "What? No... impossible!" Midnight Fischl''s eyes widened in disbelief. "I was tricked by that little runt?"


    "Enough games," Fischl said, her tone sharp. "Return everything you''ve taken from me¡ªnow!"


    But despite hermand, nothing happened.


    "Oh-hohohoho!" Midnight Fischl burst into her signatureugh. "It seems that thend of Immernachtreich isn''t answering your call!"


    From the bedposts, chains shot out, binding Fischl''s limbs tightly, while Midnight Fischl ced her hand over her chest.


    "W-what are you doing?" Fischl struggled. "Let go of me!"


    "I gave you the chance to leave," Midnight Fischl said coldly. "Since you insist on clinging to delusions, I''ll just absorb you, making myself the true Prinzessin der Verurteilung!"


    Dark energy began to seep from Fischl''s body, dissolving into ck particles that Midnight Fischl absorbed.


    "You won''t seed," Fischl gritted her teeth. "My friends... they''ll be here soon to save me!"


    Midnight Fischlughed. "They''ve only just entered the castle. They''ll have to get through all my traps before¡ª"


    But she was interrupted as Oz appeared, bowing his head. "Mistress, they''ve already reached the doors to your quarters."


    "How did they get here so fast?" Midnight Fischl frowned. "No matter. The slumbering knight guards the door. They won''t break through so easily, and I have enough time to fully absorb you!"


    ---


    <i>Bang!</i>


    With a heavy thud, Lucas flew backward,nding hard on the stone floor.


    The knight who had struck him made no further moves, returning to his seat to resume his slumber.


    "This guy''s ridiculously strong," Lucas muttered, rubbing his aching back. "They don''t make final boss gatekeepers for nothing."


    Indeed, the four had been fighting the "slumbering knight" for a while now, but his strength was almost otherworldly. Worse still, any damage inflicted on his armor regenerated instantly, as if he neither tired nor felt pain.


    "Maybe brute force isn''t the way to beat him," Jean said thoughtfully, stroking her chin. "Did you notice he only attacks if we provoke him or try to open the door behind him?"


    "I noticed that too," Barbara said, nodding. "He only reacts when we approach or attack."


    "Then perhaps the key is tond an overwhelming blow he can''t regenerate from," Lucas suggested, snapping his fingers as an idea struck him. "We just need to stack up enough damage!"


    The others exchanged puzzled nces, not quite following.


    "We''re still in a tabletop game, right?" Lucas exined. "If we roll a ''critical sess,'' we''ll deal massive damage."


    "That''s not enough on its own," Jean countered. "We scored critical hits earlier, but they still didn''t faze him."


    "Then weyer on more damage!" Lucas grinned. "For instance, by using a surprise attack from behind."


    "That''s dishonorable!" Jean protested. "Knights shouldn''t resort to such underhanded tactics¡ªit vites our moral code."


    "A backstab could do triple damage," Lucas added.


    "Well, Grand Master Varka once told me," Jean reconsidered, "that sometimes you have to be adaptable to achieve noble ends. This... this is a ''justified'' surprise attack!"


    Her flexible sense of honor was almost impressive.


    "He seems to be perpetually in slumber," Lucas continued, "which should increase our chances of sess. Now we just need the weapon with the highest base damage to pull off the backstab."


    "My only option is this imitation Falcon Sword," Jean said, looking to Lucas. "But your ''Song of Broken Pines'' could deliver a lot more base damage."


    "Can I use Klee''s bomb?" Klee chimed in, waving her bomb excitedly.


    "Area-of-effect attacks can''t trigger a backstab..." Lucas''s gaze wandered to the ballistae along the walls. "That''s it¡ªlet''s use this!"


    ---


    Ten minutester...


    Jean stared at the setup, muttering, "You''re serious about using the ballista for a backstab?"


    "It''s not just any ballista, it''s a siege ballista," Lucas corrected, as he loaded one of Klee''s bombs into the ballista he''d removed from the battlements.


    Theoretically, backstabs should be performed with small, concealed weapons like daggers or at most a short sword. Pulling a siege ballista off a fortress wall for a backstab was beyond unconventional¡ªit was the kind of stunt only possible in a tabletop game. (AN: Dungeons & Dragons is a fantasy tabletop role-ying game. I suppose its mechanisms are being used here.)


    ording to legend, the ruler of Immernachtreich, the Prinzessin der Verurteilung,manded numerous powerful subordinates.


    A dragon-ying warrior, a mage capable of world-ending destruction, and even a thief skilled enough to steal the clothes off your back.


    Yet, among them, the most legendary was the "Slumbering Knight."


    This knight, d in imprable armor, remained perpetually asleep¡ªnot out ofziness, but because his slumber was essential to gather strength. When he awoke, it was only for one purpose: to fight.


    Such a formidable warrior was appointed by the Prinzessin der Verurteilung as the most loyal guard at her chamber''s door. Anyone who dared approach would immediately rouse him, and he would drive them back without mercy.


    But who would have expected him to face such cunning invaders?


    "All set," Lucas said, positioning the siege ballista. "Ready to roll the dice."


    "I''ll roll!" Klee quickly raised her hand. "Klee''s luck is amazing!"


    After all, her constetion was a four-leaf clover, a sign of good fortune.


    "Shh, quietly now." Lucas handed her the dice, whispering, "I believe in you, Klee. Go for it."


    [Roll to determine whether the loading action is detected: 11 points]


    [Sess! The Slumbering Knight has not noticed your actions.]


    [Roll to determine if the sneak attack is sessful: 20 points]


    [Critical sess! The sneak attack will deal triple damage.]


    [Roll to determine if the sneak attack hits: 13 points]


    [Sess! This attack will hit.]


    [Roll to determine if the sneak attack causes a critical hit: 20 points]


    [Critical sess! Triple damage applies.]


    [Roll to determine...]


    ...


    [Ready to attack. Estimated damage: 3,521 points]


    Using a siege ballista for a sneak attack was absurd, so the system imposed a series of dice rolls, as if attempting to prevent this action. However, Klee''s extraordinary luck turned every roll in their favor.


    As the ballista now aimed squarely at the Slumbering Knight, the damage count was so exaggerated that, never mind a knight¡ªeven a dragon would be reduced to ashes from this hit.


    Yet, just as they were about tounch, the knight¡ªwho had remained motionless with his head bowed¡ªsuddenly shifted slightly.


    The group tensed.


    Had he sensed the ambush and was now about to retaliate?


    However, contrary to Lucas''s expectation, the Slumbering Knight did not attack. Instead, he stood up, brushed off his armor, moved aside, and made a gesture of invitation.


    "Wait... are you saying," Lucas asked cautiously, "that you''ll let us pass?"


    "What else? With you lot, I''ve had the worst luck ever. You''re all the absolute worst¡ªjust downright despicable. I''m the guard here, can''t I just guard in peace? And you pull off this trick? I was going easy on you, but no, you''re out to destroy me! Just go on, ancestors, go on in! I''m not risking my life for a few hundred Mora!"


    His voice grumbled bitterly from beneath his helmet. Clearly, this knight had quite the sharp tongue; perhaps his master''s family name was Chun.


    But in any case, it was a good result. After all, a 3,521-damage hit would probably have been overkill, reducing the Slumbering Knight to nothing more than a "Dust Knight."


    "Thank you," Jean, herself a knight, expressed her gratitude. She and the others pushed open the door to the final chamber.


    Once inside, however, Klee snuck back out, adjusted the ballista''s aim, and quickly lit the fuse.


    A st of stacked buffs shot forth, shattering a distant section of the fortress wall with a deafening boom, leaving Klee grinning with excitement.


    "Too bad, Mr. Knight!" Klee chirped, stomping her foot as sheughed sweetly. "That was supposed to be for you!"


    The Slumbering Knight, watching the pile of rubble, remained silent.


    ---


    Meanwhile, Midnight Fischl, who had been absorbing Fischl''s imaginative power, suddenly heard the explosive noise, followed by the entire room shaking violently.


    "Damn it!" Midnight Fischl scowled. "Oz! What''s going on out there?"


    "The intruders have defeated the Slumbering Knight," Oz replied calmly. "Estimated time to arrival: thirty seconds, twenty-nine, twenty-eight..."


    "Hah!" Bound tightly, Fischl grinned. "I told you¡ªthey''reing for me."


    "So what?" Midnight Fischl snarled, elerating her absorption. "Even if this is risky, once I absorb you, I''ll be invincible here in thend of Immernachtreich!"


    ---


    "Fischl!" Lucas''s voice cut through the silence of Midnight Fischl''s quarters.


    Yet, the only ones present were Midnight Fischl and Oz.


    Fischl''s usual clothesy scattered on the bed, but there was no sign of her.


    "You''ve finally arrived," Midnight Fischl murmured breathily, her eyes gazing at Lucas with an intense, adoring gleam. "My dear Undead King, soon we shall be united... forever."


    "Those are Fischl''s clothes!" Barbara eximed, noticing the scattered garments. "What did you do to her? Where is she?"


    "Where is she?" Midnight Fischl ced a hand over her chest, smiling. "Right here."


    "You... ate her?" Jean looked appalled.


    Midnight Fischl raised an eyebrow. "Of course not. She and I are now one. In all the three thousand realms, there is only one true Prinzessin der Verurteilung¡ªand that is me, Midnight Fischl!"


    "No matter what you call yourself," Jean said, drawing her sword, her gaze steely, "you will release Fischl! Otherwise, we''ll have to fight you."


    Midnight Fischl chuckled softly. "It seems you don''t yetprehend what it means to be the master of Immernachtreich." She snapped her fingers with a grin. "Allow me to show you all who the true god is here!"


    With a snap of her fingers, the entire environment began shifting rapidly. By the time they regained their bearings, they found themselves standing on a deste battlefield.


    And facing them was an entire army, the forces of Midnight Immernachtreich, awaiting theirmand.


    Jean and Klee followed Barbara''s gaze upward, and to their shock, they realized that they weren''t actually under an open sky but beneath the "giant" forms of Lucas and Midnight Fischl.


    Surrounding them wasn''t an endless wastnd either; at the edges of this barren ground stood walls enclosing the space, turning this area into a giant game board. They hadn''t been transported to a new realm; they''d been pulled <i>into</i> the game board itself and turned into pieces on the board.


    Yes, before Lucas and Midnight Fischl, a square meter-sized sand table had appeared, and now, Jean, Barbara, and Klee were positioned on it as pieces in this twisted game.


    But Lucas, no stranger to strange and perilous situations, stayed calm. He frowned and asked, "What exactly are you nning?"


    Midnight Fischl''s eyes gleamed with a manic intensity. "Isn''t it obvious? We''re going to y a game. If you win, they''ll return to normal. But if you lose... you''ll stay with me here in the Immernachtreich¡ªforever."


    "Interesting." Lucas gave her a slight smile. "So, what are the rules of this game?"


    "Oh, they''re simple. I created this game myself. Using our ''decks,'' we''ll engage inbat," she replied, holding up a deck of cards that had appeared in her hand. "Whoever loses all their pieces first... loses."


    Across from the three pieces representing his allies, Midnight Fischl''s own piece sat perched upon a high throne, gazing down upon them with disdain.


    "So, where''s my deck?" Lucas asked, still wary.


    "It''s right here," Midnight Fischl tapped her temple with a smug smile. "Imagine your own cards, and they''ll appear. The power of imagination is all you need."


    "Oh, I see. So that''s how it''s going to be..." Lucas raised an eyebrow, muttering, "Cheating, are we?"


    Forcing him to y cards with no cards of his own¡ªthis was something else entirely!


    "I''ll take the first turn!" dered Midnight Fischl, drawing five cards from her deck. A confident smile spread across her face. "I summon the monster card, [Raven Knight of the Prinzessin der Verurteilung]!"


    At hermand, a knight d in ck armor with a raven''s head materialized on the board, ready to fight.


    Okay, so it looked like she was really going all in on this.


    A Prinzessin der Verurteilung deck... who knew it would end like this?


    "Next, I''ll y a magic card, [Prinzessin der Verurteilung''s Forced Conscription]. Its effect...?" Midnight Fischl grinned. "It multiplies any ''Prinzessin der Verurteilung'' monster on the field by one thousand!"


    Sweat instantly formed on Lucas''s brow.


    I take it back. She''s clearly bluffing with these card effects!


    However, as the creator of the rules, Midnight Fischl''s whims reigned supreme, and the board was soon covered with a veritable legion of ck-armored raven knights.


    "And now, the magic card [Pre-Battle Deration of the Prinzessin der Verurteilung]!" Midnight Fischl''s voice rang out as she activated yet another card. "All my monsters now have ten times their attack power!"


    As soon as she finished speaking, the raven knights grew evenrger, the pressure around them intensifying.


    "Now, I''ll summon [Celebratory Champagne of the Prinzessin der Verurteilung]!" Midnight Fischl''s card turned into a goblet of champagne, which she raised in triumph. "A toast to my impending victory."


    Yet, just as she was about to drink, Oz swooped down, swiping the ss away and admonishing her, "Mydy, you are underage."


    "Fine! Then let it be [Celebratory Fruit Juice of the Prinzessin der Verurteilung]!" she grumbled, shamelessly using another card for a mere drink, her expression triumphant. "This win is already mine."


    Indeed, the game was hardly fair to begin with, and by the next turn, her raven army would reduce the three pieces representing his friends to dust.


    "Lucas!"


    Jean''s voice broke through his thoughts, pulling his attention to the miniature figures on the board. All three were looking up at him with trust in their eyes.


    "Go, Daddy!" Klee cheered, waving her hand. "Klee knows you''ll win!"


    "Y-Yes, if you win," Barbara blushed, adding, "I might even consider giving you a private concert!"


    That''s right; this wasn''t the time to give up.


    Back in his former life, he may have been an underdog author, impoverished and struggling, but in one thing he''d never been poor.


    His <i>imagination.</i>


    "It''s my turn!" Lucas dered, and a deck of cards materialized in his hands. He drew one card and held it high. "I activate [Pot of Greed]¡ªallowing me to draw two cards!"


    Since she was bending the rules, a single banned card was fair y.


    "Is this the limit of your imagination?" Midnight Fischl taunted. "Seems like you''re destined to belong to me."


    "I summon the effect monster, [Huang Yueying]!" Lucas continued, cing another card. "Her effect, ''Gathering Wisdom,'' lets me draw an additional card each time I use a spell card!"


    "Hold on a minute..." Midnight Fischl looked perplexed. "That card design looks oddly different..."


    "You said it yourself¡ªwe use our imagination to... ''print'' the cards, right?" Lucas smirked. "Next, I y [Out of Thin Air], drawing two more cards, and using [Huang Yueying''s] effect, I draw yet another card!"


    "Then, I''ll ce two jokers down for a ''King Bomb''bo!" He revealed two regr ying cards, turning to Klee with a grin. "Klee, you''re up!"


    "Roger that!"


    With a bright smile, Klee summoned a massive bomb and hurled it at the raven knights. The ensuing explosion obliterated a swath of knights into ashes.


    "M-My soldiers!" Midnight Fischl''s eyes widened with genuine panic.


    "We''re not finished yet!" Lucas went on. "I activate the fusion spell [Unite], merging Jean and Barbara into the [Pdin Knight: Barbajean]!"


    A vortex swirled around Jean and Barbara''s figures, drawing them together into a single, shining form.


    From within the light, a silver-armored blonde knight emerged. Her appearancebined Barbara''s delicate beauty with Jean''s resolute demeanor, creating an aura of fierce elegance.


    "Now attack!" Lucasmanded, "My knight!"


    "With pleasure!"


    Barbajean, her back adorned with wings of steel,unched forward into the ranks of Midnight Fischl''s forces.


    The de in her hand glowed with intertwining water and wind elements.


    "Maelstrom de!"


    She unleashed a powerful whirlpool of water and wind from her sword, tearing through the raven knights like a tempest through reeds, shredding them apart.


    "And it''s still not over," Lucas revealed his next card. "I y the spell [Undead King''s Secret Art], reviving all fallen monsters as my skeleton minions!"


    The remains of the fallen raven knights began to shudder, cracks forming across their armor as skeletal warriors crawled out and reformed, joining his new undead army.


    In the blink of an eye, the battlefield had swungpletely in his favor, tipping Midnight Fischl''s vast advantage upside down.


    "C-Can you even do that?" Midnight Fischl gasped. "My... my Immernachtreich army!"


    "This is the power of imagination!" Lucas drew his next card, but Midnight Fischl suddenly revealed herst one, "[Prinzessin der Verurteilung''s Requisition]! I forcibly confiscate your entire hand!"


    "ssic you," Lucas smirked, pausing for a moment before handing over his cards. "Going for new rules as soon as you''re losing?"


    "I told you¡ªI make the rules!" she sneered, snatching the cards from him with a triumphant gleam in her eye. "Now let''s see what you''ve been saving... huh?"


    All the cards in her hands were filled with... writhing tentacles of various kinds.


    "It''s a pity, but I knew you''d do this," Lucas smirked, narrowing his eyes. "I activate the effect of [Parasitic Tentacles]¡ªwhenever you draw these cards, they automatically summon and <i>attack</i> the one who drew them!"


    Tendrils burst forth from the cards, winding tightly around Midnight Fischl''s form and soaking her luxurious dress in viscous, shining fluids.


    The once all-powerful Prinzessin der Verurteilung was reduced to a prisoner bound by her own fantasies.


    "W-Wait a moment!" Midnight Fischl struggled against the hold, brow furrowing. "Why are these tentacles attacking <i>me</i>?"


    "There''s no rule that says I can''t attack the yer directly," Lucas said with a smile. "If you refuse to surrender, I can''t promise where these tentacles might decide to go next."


    "Hmph... even if that''s the case, you don''t have any cards left!" Midnight Fischl sneered. "Once it''s my turn, I''ll activate the card that will secure my victory!"


    At that moment, her expression faltered as a flicker of struggle appeared on her face.


    "I won''t... let you keep controlling me!" Fischl''s true self fought through, shouting, "Lucas! My loyal retainer! Keep attacking her¡ªI''m almost free!"


    "It''s useless!" Midnight Fischl immediately forced Fischl''s consciousness back down. "He doesn''t have any cards left!"


    "Who says I need cards to cast a spell?" Lucas raised his right hand, dering, "I activate the spell card [My Fist]¡ªand target you with a direct attack!"


    "W-wait a minute!" Midnight Fischl''s eyes widened as Lucas''s fist drew closer. In desperation, she called out, "Oz! Help me!"


    "Apologies, mydy," Oz said with a slight bow, his expression unchanged. "ording to your orders, I am not permitted to interfere in this game."


    Before Midnight Fischl could react, Lucas was already upon her.


    "Sorry about this."


    Lucas controlled his strength, throwing a swift punch straight into her stomach. The force hit her like a shockwave, and her body buckled as her mind went nk from the pain.


    "Due to [Huang Yueying''s] effect, I draw another card."


    Taking advantage of her dazed state, Lucas quickly drew from his deck, pulling a card and announcing, "Next, I activate the spell card [De-fusion]!"


    Midnight Fischl''s face turned pale. "De-fusion...?"


    Could he be targeting [Holy Knight Barbajean] with it to split her andunch more attacks?


    "Correct," Lucas smirked. "But the target this time... is you."


    "What?!"


    Midnight Fischl was struck with a sudden realization as her body began to glow. A blinding light filled the room, and a girl''s figure was forcibly ejected from her.


    Lucas stepped forward, catching the real Fischl as she separated from Midnight Fischl. She appeared weak and vulnerable, wearing nothing, as if the separation had drained her strength.


    With Fischl''s escape, Midnight Fischl''s power was immediately diminished, and the sand table game could no longer be maintained. The three others returned to their normal size and form, released from the game board.


    "It''s okay now. You''re safe," Lucas whispered, gently brushing the golden strands from her forehead. "I told you I''de to save you."


    "Now, it''s my turn to end this," Fischl said, her voice gathering strength as she rose. She stepped up to face Midnight Fischl, her gaze steady. "Thank you. It''s because of you that I found the resolve to strengthen my vision. The Immernachtreich is real!"


    "Hmph... I admit defeat this time," Midnight Fischl smiled bitterly, her expression one of resignation. "After all, I am only a shadow of you."


    Fischl didn''t respond. She slowly extended her hand toward her doppelganger, and Midnight Fischl''s form began to dissolve into faint specks of light, merging with her.


    "No... please, don''t!" Klee suddenly dashed forward, pressing down on Fischl''s outstretched arm, her voice loud and pleading. "The other Fischl isn''t bad¡ªplease, give her a chance!"


    "Klee..." For a moment, Fischl hesitated, her resolve wavering.


    Midnight Fischl might have been her enemy, but her existence had been born from her own self-doubt about the Immernachtreich.


    "Hmph..."


    The half-absorbed Midnight Fischl opened her eyes and, without another word, flung herself into Lucas''s arms, calling out affectionately:


    "Daddy!"


    "D-Daddy?"


    Jean and Barbara both turned toward Lucas with expressions of utter disbelief.


    They knew, of course, that Lucas couldn''t possibly be the father of this "Midnight Fischl," but the way she addressed him was beyond strange.


    "What are you looking at me for?" Lucas said, a mix of exasperation and amusement. "I have no idea what''s going on!"


    "Allow me to exin," said Oz, who had been silent until now. Stepping forward, he said, "Miss Midnight Fischl has lost her powers and memories. Her knowledge of Mr. Lucases only from subconscious impressions."


    "Why... me, though?" Lucas asked, clearly puzzled. "I don''t exactly have any connection to her, right?"


    "Midnight Fischl was born from Miss Fischl''s mind," Oz replied. "Thus, she inherited Miss Fischl''s personality, memories, and powers¡ªincluding certain subconscious associations."


    Jean and Barbara both turned to look at Fischl. They didn''t need to say anything; their questioning gazes said it all.


    "It''s not like that at all!" Fischl eximed defensively. "He... he''s nothing but..."


    "Daddy!" Midnight Fischl interrupted, clinging to Lucas and peeking out from behind him, looking pitiful. "I''m scared..."


    "She isn''t faking," Oz continued, shaking his head. "With Miss Fischl''s inner resolve now restored, Midnight Fischl will no longer pose a threat to you."


    "Oz!" Fischl suddenly snapped, ring at him with her hands on her hips. "I haven''t forgotten what you did! Why did you betray me?"


    "You misunderstand, Miss Fischl. I am not your Oz," he exined gently. "Each Fischl has their own Oz. Your Oz disappeared when you lost faith in your own fantasy, and now, he''s reappeared as you''ve regained it."


    "My... Oz?"


    A soft glow emerged from Fischl''s Vision, and with a swirl of dark feathers, Oz materialized in front of her once more.


    "It''s been a while, mydy," he said, bowing his head. "I feared I might never see you again."


    "Oz!" Fischl cried, throwing her arms around him as tears welled up in her eyes. "I knew you''d never betray me!"


    "So, what are you going to do with Midnight Fischl?" Jean asked, crossing her arms.


    "I''ve decided," Fischl replied, her face bright with a newfound confidence. "A shadow, though guilty of transgression,pletes the whole of one''s self. And, of course, ruling the vast realm of the Immernachtreich alone would be exhausting. So..."


    She pointed a finger at Midnight Fischl with royal authority. "You shall continue to serve as my shadow and manage the Immernachtreich in my absence. And you, Oz¡ªMidnight Oz¡ªyou seem reliable, so you shall assist her."


    "I am honored," Midnight Oz replied, bowing deeply. "My mistress''s mistress is my mistress as well. I shall obey you."


    As he spoke, the scenery around them began to blur. Within seconds, everything vanished, and the group found themselves standing once more on the sunny beach of the ind.


    "Where''s my Immernachtreich?" Fischl cried in dismay. "It was such a grand domain, and now it''s gone!"


    "There''s no need to worry." Midnight Fischl exined. "The Immernachtreich is a construct of your imagination, meant to reside within your mind. For now, it rests within me, ready to be reestablished as soon as you find a proper domain."


    "Why go to so much trouble?" Lucas mused. "This ce seems perfectly fine for it."


    "This is Klee''s imagined world," Midnight Oz pointed out. "Once the game is over, everything here will vanish."


    "But where can I find space for it?" Fischl mused, scratching her chin. "Our backyard surely wouldn''t be enough..."


    "Forgive my frankness," Oz warned, "but the size of the Immernachtreich rivals Mondstadt itself. cing it anywhere in Teyvat would be tantamount to... dering a new nation."


    This statement, as absurd as it sounded, was not far from reality.


    Thest unrecognized kingdom on Teyvat had been Khaenri''ah, which the Seven had destroyed, and the Heavenly Principles would not ignore a new realm like the Immernachtreich.


    "Not to worry," Lucas said, an idea dawning on him. "I know a ce where we could fit ten Immernachtreichs if we wanted."


    [Congrattions onpleting this game. The system will now distribute rewards to each yer based on their performance.]


    [Jean''s reward: True Favonius Sword.]


    A finely crafted sword appeared in Jean''s hands.


    "This... it looks like the Favonius Sword?" Jean whispered, running her hand over the de. "But it''s unlike the one wielded by the Knights of Favonius..."


    Unlike her previous, less-than-authentic "Replica," this was a genuine masterpiece that matched the quality of the original.


    [Barbara''s reward: Transformation Wand.]


    Barbara, meanwhile, received a charming magic wand.


    "It''s adorable!" she beamed, clutching it to her chest. "Does this mean I can transform with it?"


    "Try it, Sister Barbara!" Klee urged, eyes sparkling. "I want to see you transform!"


    Barbara held the wand up, clearly excited. "Alright then... Transform!"


    However, instead of the magical glow and outfit she imagined, Barbara''s body began to expand, growingrger by the second.


    "Huh?! Why am I getting big again?" she cried in dismay. "I didn''t want this kind of transformation!"


    After a bit more trial and error, Barbara finally returned to her original size.


    "Sister Barbara, you''re amazing!" Klee''s eyes sparkled. "Now you can grow and shrink anytime you want!"


    "Who''d want such an ability?!" Barbara said, nearly in tears.


    After all, she did have her idol reputation to think of; getting giant-sized in front of everyone in the game world was embarrassing enough.


    "I think it''s actually pretty useful..." Jean said seriously. "If the Stormterror ever attacks again, giant Barbara could be a valuable asset."


    "Sister!" Barbara fumed. "Even you''re saying this?"


    "I... I was only joking," Jean chuckled, patting Barbara on the head. "Besides, I''d never let you take on such a risk."


    [Lucas''s Reward: One Magic Card, One Trap Card, One Monster Card]


    - <i>Fusion (Magic Card):</i> Allows the fusion of two or more targets; all fusion materials must agree to the fusion. (One use per day)


    - <i>Magic Cylinder (Trap Card):</i> Reflects an opponent''s attack back at them. (One use per day)


    - <i>Blue-Eyed White Dragon (Monster Card):</i> A legendary dragon known for its overwhelming attack power. Able to crush any opponent, its destructive force is unparalleled. (One use per day)


    What? Blue-Eyed White Dragon?


    I''m not exactly into dragons...


    I wanted Dark Magician Girl!


    Despite a little disappointment, the reward was still quite generous.


    ---


    [Klee''s Reward: One Wish]


    A wish¡ªan actual wish!


    Everyone was stunned by Klee''s reward.


    After all, it was a prize with essentially no limits.


    "That''s amazing!" Barbara suddenly thought of something and eximed, "If Klee wishes for the Stormterror to be defeated, then Mondstadt would be safe!"


    "Captain Jean..." Klee hesitated but eventually nodded. "If this wish could help everyone, I''d be willing to use it."


    For Jean, this was definitely something to consider.


    But she finally shook her head and said, "No, Klee. You don''t have to sacrifice your wish for this. Dealing with the Stormterror is the responsibility of the Knights of Favonius!"


    "You''re right..." Barbara realized she''d spoken out of turn and quickly corrected herself, "Klee, you should wish for something you really want!"


    "My wish is..." Klee looked at Lucas, then seemed to make up her mind. "To be able to see Daddy and Mommy anytime I want!"


    Lucas was taken aback by this wish, feeling his eyes sting with emotion.


    It wasn''t money, power, or anything else.


    Her wish was something that most kids take for granted¡ªto be with her parents every day.


    [Klee''s Reward: Summon Magic Hat]


    - <i>Effect:</i> Allows up to two targets to be marked. Once marked, Klee can teleport to the target''s location or summon the target to her. (One use per day)


    A red hat suddenly descended from the sky,nding on Klee''s head.


    "Wow!" Klee blinked in surprise, then her face lit up with joy as she pped her hands. "Now Klee can see Daddy and Mommy whenever she wants!"


    ---

 Chapter 125: Villain Simulator, Ch 124

    <h4>Chapter 125: Viin Simtor, Ch 124</h4>


    The game system was unexpectedly intelligent¡ªit had crafted rewards specifically tailored to each wish.


    This was worlds apart from a certain system that did nothing but pilfer resources from other worlds under the guise of its own generosity.


    [Say it directly if you have aint. No need to talk around me,] a familiar voice interrupted.


    After a long silence, the system piped up to defend itself.


    "Wait a second, everyone''s getting rewards?" Fischl interjected suddenly. "What about the Prinzessin herself?"


    "I''m pretty sure you didn''t actually y the game," Lucas said, scratching his head with a wry smile. "And besides, your reward is probably the best of all¡ªa whole kingdom, remember?"


    "Well... that is true." Fischl finally nodded, though still intrigued. "But about this ce where you''re nning to settle the Immernachtreich¡ªwhere exactly is it?"


    "Follow me," Lucas said with a snap of his fingers. "Serenitea Pot"


    ---


    Since the game was over, Lucas was free to ess other spaces.


    Indeed, the perfect location for the Immernachtreich was none other than the Serenitea Pot realm.


    As far as Lucas knew, only a minuscule fraction of the Serenitea Pot realm''snd was currently in use. There was more than enough space to spare for Fischl''s fantasy kingdom without impacting the lives of its other residents. He chose a location some kilometers from Raiden Mai''s camp, setting the new Immernachtreich in a spot that bnced privacy and essibility.


    It was a perfect win-win situation. Fischl was overjoyed, and Lucas weed the thought of his realm gaining a touch of the fantastical.


    As for the otherworldly Fischl and her counterpart Oz, they too found a home in the Serenitea Pot realm.


    ---


    Back in Mondstadt, at Fischl''s family home.


    Fischl hesitated in the doorway, her steps tentative as she called out, "I... I''m home."


    "Wee back, Fischl." Her father set down his teapot, smiling warmly. "Your father and mother have been waiting for you."


    "That''s right," her mother added, emerging from the kitchen with a kind smile. "Were you out adventuring with Oz again today?"


    Fischl was taken aback at first, but then she gave a decisive nod and said, "Yes! Father, Mother, please allow me to introduce my friend once again. Come forth, Oz!"


    In a flutter of ck feathers, the raven appeared before her parents, bowing politely. "It is an honor to make your acquaintance."


    And at that moment, Fischl''s parents finally saw with their own eyes that their daughter''s "imaginary friend" was, in fact, quite real.


    ---


    Though it felt like an eternity in the game world, only a few hours had passed in reality.


    Even so, the adventure had left Lucas thoroughly exhausted, and he promptly fell asleep as soon as he returned to his quarters.


    He awoke around eleven that night, caught in the strange predicament of feeling wide awake yet unsure of what to do. Just as he was debating whether to try sleeping again, there was a knock at his door.


    "Who could that be at this hour..." Lucas wondered, heading over to open it. Standing outside was a handsome man with tanned skin and a cryptic smile, who greeted him with a suave, "Good evening, Lucas."


    "Captain Kaeya?" Lucas blinked, surprised. "It''ste¡ªwhat brings you here?"


    Indeed, the visitor was none other than Kaeya, Captain of the Cavalry for the Knights of Favonius. Lucas and Kaeya had only met briefly at the recent Wine Festival, and their rtionship wasn''t close enough to justify a spontaneouste-night visit.


    "Naturally, I''m here for a ''good cause,''" Kaeya replied with a cryptic smile. "It seems you''ve been quite helpful to the Knights these past few days. As a member myself, I thought I''d repay you¡ªpersonally."


    Repay me? Personally? And at this hour?


    "Um..." Lucas hesitated. "I appreciate the offer, but... I''m not really interested in, you know, that sort of thing."


    Kaeya paused, then burst outughing, pping his knee. "Hah! Rx, I didn''t mean anything like that. If I had, I wouldn''t be here right now."


    "So, what exactly is this about?" Lucas asked, bewildered.


    "Just some fun," Kaeya replied, draping an arm around Lucas'' shoulder as he led him outside. "Jean is a great leader, but she''s too proper to understand what a man truly needs. Leave it to me¡ªtonight, I''ll show you Mondstadt''s ''specialities'' on my tab!"


    "Wait, slow down! I''lle along, just... not so fast!" Lucas chuckled, half-dragged along by Kaeya''s eagerness.


    He wasn''t sure what Kaeya was up to, but as he was bored anyway, he let himself be led along. And Kaeya, being a Knight, wasn''t likely to take him anywhere truly shady... right?


    Unlike Liyue''s bustling nightlife, Mondstadt was usually quiet after dark, and outside the taverns, there were few businesses opente. But Kaeya eventually led him to a building with a faintly "mysterious" vibe¡ªcertainly not a tavern. A pinkish light bathed the entryway, giving the ce an ambiguous air, and the name on the sign, "Maple Moon," seemed to hint at... certain expectations.


    Hold on a second.


    Lucas froze, realization dawning on him.


    "Why are you hesitating?" Kaeya pped him on the shoulder. "It''s chilly out¡ªbesides, ady''s touch is far warmer."


    "Captain Kaeya," Lucas eyed him suspiciously, "is this <i>that</i> kind of ce?"


    Is this really appropriate for a government employee?


    "Don''t overthink it. It''s just an ordinary massage parlor," Kaeya smirked. "A lonely man''s oasis, a little sanctuary for the night."


    Lucas wasn''t naive. This "massage parlor" likely offered services beyond back rubs.


    No wonder Kaeya insisted on repaying him in secret¡ªthis was definitely off the books.


    Lucas felt a bit torn. This ce was clearly some sort of adult entertainment establishment.


    Just then, a tall silver-haired woman in a mask passed by the entrance. Her legs, impossibly long and elegant, caught his eye immediately.


    Wait, could it be...?


    "Hey, if you''re not up for it, I won''t force you," Kaeya sighed in mock disappointment. "We could just grab a drink somewhere else."


    "Ahem! As we say in Liyue, ''When in Rome...''" Lucas cleared his throat, deciding to follow Kaeya''s lead. "Since you insist, it would be rude to refuse."


    Inside, as expected, the parlor was full of scantily-d women gliding between patrons. Their faces were obscured by decorative masks, but even from their figures alone, they were clearly captivating.


    "Well, if it isn''t Captain Kaeya!" A lively woman dressed in vibrant colors approached them with a smile. "And who''s this handsome guest?"


    "He''s a special visitor to Mondstadt," Kaeya replied with a grin. "Give him the royal treatment, on my tab."


    "Of course," she replied with a knowing smile, slipping her hand into Lucas''s and leading him away. "You''re in for an unforgettable night."


    At this point, Lucas decided to y along, trying not to seem too much like a first-timer. He had an idea of what to expect here and wasn''t about to act like he was some naive teenager.


    Once Lucas was led off, Kaeya''s carefree smile shifted to something sharper. He moved to a nearby office door, knocking and entering.


    Unlike the dimly lit rooms outside, the office was well-lit and businesslike.


    Sitting behind the desk was none other than the silver-haired woman Lucas had glimpsed¡ªthe true owner of "Maple Moon" and the Eighth Harbinger of the Fatui, the infamous "La Signora."


    Yes, this was no ordinary establishment but one of the Fatui''s intelligence hubs in Mondstadt.


    Kaeya had arranged Lucas'' visit as part of a discreet deal he had made with the Fatui.


    "Your man has arrived," Kaeya said, nodding to Signora. "Oh, and since he''s done the Knights a favor, this little arrangement might warrant a higher fee."


    "I''m surprised you''re even dealing with the Fatui." Signora sneered, "Aren''t you aware your foster father''s death is likely tied to my fellow Harbingers?"


    "That family is in the past," Kaeya replied nonchntly. "As long as it doesn''t harm the Knights, a bit of extra profit isn''t an issue for me."


    "How nice that you have a ''code,'' after all." Signora waved him away dismissively. "Now leave. We have no further need of you here."


    "Onest question," Kaeya paused, his expression serious. "You''re not nning to harm him, are you?"


    "If I went to this trouble, it''s because I don''t want to resort to violence," she said with thinly veiled annoyance. "My agents will deal with him as gently as possible. Unless, of course, he resists cooperation."


    The room''s extravagant lighting cast a warm glow as Lucas settled back in a bathrobe. Delicate, subtle aromas wafted through the air, and the murals on the wall depicted elegant figures whose grace seemed to beckon guests into rxation.


    He had to admit, this establishment had a refined touch. The d¨¦cor, the thoughtfully selected appetizers, and the pre-dinner drinks all pointed to an experience that was a cut above the rest. Clearly, Kaeya hadn''t just chosen any random ce¡ªhe''d put thought into selecting somewhere that would impress.


    At that moment, Lucas was still blissfully unaware that Kaeya had essentially "sold him out" by leading him here. He''d even been picturing the two of them as trusted friends¡ª"brothers in arms" from the same "toon." Well, technically, he told himself, this was just a rxing massage. After all, he had been feeling rather stressed, so he could hardly be med for indulging a little.


    The door opened, and five young women, all dressed in revealing attire, stepped in, bowing slightly and greeting him with, "Wee."


    The hostess from before, a woman named Hong Jie, beamed and said, "Go ahead, pick the one that suits you. If one isn''t enough, two or three are perfectly fine too."


    Wait a minute¡ªtwo or three? What kind of "massage" involves a team? Are they going to stack on top of each other?


    Was this... the legendary "selection process"?


    Lucas''s heart raced a little at the unexpected scenario. He''d only seen such scenes in certain kinds of films.


    Each of the five women possessed their own unique charm, from soft and gentle to bold and striking. Even with the masks obscuring half their faces, he could tell they were all beauties. Still, Lucas had seen his share of stunning women, particrly in his simtions; while beautiful, they didn''t quite measure up to those standards.


    However, his mind was set on the tall, silver-haired woman he had spotted earlier. Disappointed not to see her among the five, he asked, "Excuse me, are there... others?"


    Admittedly, it wasn''t the most polite question to ask, but it was only because she had intrigued him enough that he''d decided toe in.


    "Oh, certainly!" Hong Jie nodded quickly, her smile strained. "Please wait a moment¡ªI''ll bring in a new selection for you."


    Lucas was quickly starting to suspect something odd as Hong Jie paraded in group after group of "masseuses," each batch more attractive than thest. There was something unusual about them too; they all had tall, slender figures and pale skin, more characteristic of people from Snezhnaya than Mondstadt.


    Could Snezhnaya''s economy really be so bad that even noble-born women were forced to work in such ces?


    "I''m sorry," he said, ncing at the fifth group with an apologetic smile. "Is there... anyone else?"


    "Sir, is there something in particr that you find unappealing?" Hong Jie forced a grin. "If all else fails, what do you think of me?"


    "Oh, no, that''s not necessary," Lucas replied, politely but firmly. "Earlier, I happened to see a tall woman with silver hair and a ck mask. I was wondering... is she still here?"


    Tall? Silver hair? ck mask?


    Hong Jie''s face grew tense; she''d already guessed who he was referring to. After all, none of the other women in the establishment could quitepare to her.


    "Are... are you sure you want <i>that</i> one?" Hong Jie''s smile turned awkward. "Can''t I persuade you to choose another?"


    "If she isn''t avable," Lucas replied, already losing interest, "then I might as well leave."


    "Oh no, I can''t have that," Hong Jie said quickly, scrambling for an excuse. "Mr. Kaeya would hold me ountable if I let you leave unsatisfied."


    "No problem," Lucas said generously. "You can tell him I was very well taken care of."


    "Please, sir, give me a moment," Hong Jie said helplessly, "I''ll go check."


    ---


    Author''s note: Okay, since it''s Sunday, I''ll post an extra Chapter for you! but if we get to 600 powerstones, I''ll post 3 extra Chapters, or 4 if we get to 800 :)

 Chapter 126: Villain Simulator, Ch 125

    <h4>Chapter 126: Viin Simtor, Ch 125</h4>


    In La Signora''s office.


    "What?" She mmed her palm onto the table, frowning. "Not satisfied with any of them? This guy''s standards are way too high!"


    Hong Jie, looking as though she was walking on eggshells, hesitated before responding, "It''s not that he''s entirely unsatisfied. It''s just...he specifically asked for one person."


    "Let him ask then." La Signora waved her hand dismissively. "Who?"


    Hong Jie hesitated again before finally replying, "It''s...you."


    "What did you say?" La Signora''s expression darkened.


    "I''m so sorry!" Hong Jie bowed her head immediately. "But based on how he described her, it sounded just like you. He even said if it wasn''t you...he''d rather decline!"


    Hearing this, La Signora felt a strange mix of emotions.


    The entire reason she had orchestrated bringing Lucas here through Kaeya was to "rx" him and take advantage of that moment to remove the Ring of Maniption. But she hadn''t expected him to be so brazen, going so far as to ask for her, as if she were just another hostess.


    "Maybe...we should just drop it?" Hong Jie suggested cautiously. "It doesn''t seem right topromise an Harbringer''s dignity over one man."


    "No, this started because of me, and it will end because of me," La Signora stood, a cold gleam in her eyes. "I''ll see what kind of man he really is."


    She had no intention of indulging him in "that" sort of way¡ªshe was just outraged. Worst case, she''d leave him without a hand if he tried anything.


    ---


    <i>Knock, knock.</i>


    The knocking on the door woke Lucas from his dozing.


    "Come in," he called, admittedly with low expectations. If this was another disappointment, he might just cut his losses and go to sleep instead.


    But as the door opened, an alluring, cool fragrance wafted in, and the woman entering was indeed the long-legged beauty he had seen at the entrance.


    He had only glimpsed her before, but now, taking in her appearance up close, he and La Signora found themselves thinking the exact same thing.


    <i>The resemnce! It''s uncanny!</i>


    La Signora''s unique, stunning figure was unmistakable, and the sight of this woman instantly brought back vivid memories of his time with La Signora in the simtion. Meanwhile, as La Signora looked at Lucas, she too was taken aback.


    He looked just like the "Doctor" from her dreams¡ªuncannily so.


    If it had been anyone else, La Signora might have had her doubts, but this man''s face was one she would recognize anywhere, no matter the circumstances.


    "Hello..." Lucas stammered, feeling unexpectedly nervous as he gazed at the woman, whose figure so closely resembled La Signora''s. "I, uh...may I ask your name?"


    Caught off guard, La Signora hesitated before replying stiffly, "I... I''m Number Eight."


    As everyone knows, employees in these types of establishments typically don''t use their real names. They usually go by stage names, which are almost always doubled sybles.


    Of course, some ces dispense with names altogether, instead assigning numbers to represent identities.


    After all, when they return to the sunlight, the only thing they''ll take from here is the money; nothing else will follow them out.


    Those numbers and pseudonyms will transform into a kind of totem, an ambiguous code passed down through time.


    La Signora, having no prior experience in such ces, naturally didn''t have a stage name or number. When they called her "Number Eight," it was only because that was her rank among the Fatui Harbingers.


    Seeing that face, identical to the Doctor''s from her dreams, had immediately thrown her off bnce.


    La Signora had once wondered if she would ever meet this man again.


    But she had never imagined it would happen like this.


    However, as a Harbinger, she quickly regained herposure. She reminded herself, "This guy only looks a lot like him. Those... they were just dreams."


    Number Eight, huh?


    Lucas couldn''t help but chuckle a bit self-deprecatingly.


    La Signora was a high-ranking Fatui Harbinger; what business could she possibly have in a ce like this?


    "I see..." Lucas said calmly, "Then let''s get started."


    "Get... started with what?" La Signora asked instinctively.


    "Shouldn''t you be the one telling me?" Lucas replied with a grin. "I don''t even know what services you offer here."


    La Signora''s gaze swept over Lucas''s wrist. Sure enough, the Ring of Maniption was still there, wrapped around his wrist.


    Originally, she''d nned to knock this man out, then leave him to her subordinates to "handle."


    But after seeing his face, she hesitated.


    Even if he wasn''t the Doctor from her dreams, he was certainly connected to him in some way. It would be better to serve him temporarily, then look for clues.


    "I understand." La Signora nodded. "Lie down. I''ll... give you a massage."


    If anyone else had heard her, their eyes would probably have popped out.


    This was La Signora!


    And she was offering to serve someone herself!


    "Just so you know," she added softly to cover up her nervousness, "this is my first day on the job, so if my service iscking, I hope you''ll understand."


    Lucas didn''t think much of it. Hey down on the bed and even joked, "No need to worry. This is my first time too."


    "Who knows if it really is your first time," La Signora replied coolly. "A lot of men whoe here are just looking for a thrill behind their wives'' backs."


    "I... I don''t even have a wife," Lucas sighed. "If I did, I probably wouldn''t be here."


    For some reason, hearing that made La Signora feel an odd sense of relief.


    As Lucas slipped off his robe, revealing his broad shoulders, La Signora pressed her hands against him. He immediately felt a cold, soft touch on his back, seeming to sink straight into his skin.


    Even without the massage, just her touch alone was a pleasure.


    "Hah..."


    Lucas let out a satisfied sigh.


    "What''s wrong?" she asked, puzzled. "I haven''t even started yet."


    "Your hands are so cold, it feels nice," he murmured, eyes closed. "Reminds me of someone I knew."


    La Signora didn''t know any massage techniques, but the sensation of his back was all too familiar. In her dreams, her nails had left many marks of pain and pleasure on a simr back.


    "Oh?" she asked cautiously, "Your lover?"


    Would La Signora be considered his lover?


    If one were to consider the oue, perhaps even his wife.


    But since he''d just imed he didn''t have a wife, he wasn''t about to contradict himself now, so he answered, "Just a woman from a dream."


    From a dream?


    La Signora traced circles lightly on his back with her hands. Even such a simple touch was enough to make him feel utterly content.


    "Could you tell me about it?" Her voice trembled slightly. "That dream."


    Chatting with a worker like this might seem odd, maybe even a waste of time, but Lucas didn''t think too much of it. He began recounting the events that had taken ce in his simted world.


    Of course, the details were altered. He didn''t mention anything about the Harbingers. But the things that had happened between him and La Signora were eerily simr to what she remembered from her own dreams.


    Suddenly, Lucas felt a dampness on his back, as if a drop of water had fallen on him. "What''s wrong?"


    "Nothing..." she quickly wiped her eyes, replying, "Just some massage oil."


    "Why don''t you take a break," he said gently.


    "No, that won''t do," she shook her head. "I haven''t... even started serving you yet."


    "Talking with you has already made me quite happy," Lucas smiled. "Besides, I have to admit, your massage technique... really does feel like a first attempt."


    Although pleasant, her movements were more like gentle kneading than an actual massage.


    "Apologies for that," La Signora muttered, a little hurt. "I told you, it''s my first time."


    "Let me show you how it''s done," Lucas offered, rising from the bed. "Lie down here."


    "Is that really appropriate?" she asked, flustered. "You''re the client."


    "The customer is always right, isn''t it?" he whispered, gently pressing her onto the bed. "So, you should listen to the customer."


    Unlike La Signora''s tentative touch, Lucas''s hands worked with the skill of a true master, swiftly demonstrating what true expertise felt like.


    And, as she soon realized, his technique was exactly like that of the Doctor from her dreams.


    In the blissful sensation that threatened to melt her, she began to blur the line between the man in front of her and the lover from her dreams.


    For the first time in five centuries, her heart¡ªonce as cold as ice¡ªshowed a faint crack.


    Just then, a crisp bell chimed from outside.


    "Time''s up," Hong Jie''s voice called out. "Would you like to extend your session?"


    "Happy moments always pass too quickly..." Lucas sighed, as if reluctantly. "Let''s call it a day for now."


    This sudden "reminder" brought Lucas back to reality. The woman in front of him was not La Signora and never could be a recement for her.


    Though they hadn''t even started the main event, just chatting with this woman had already made him feel his money was well spent.


    Just then, the woman suddenly said, "W-wait a moment!"


    She stood up, opened the door, and left the room, leaving Lucas alone in the private booth.


    Seeing here out, Hong Jie quickly approached and asked, "Lady, I saw you were in there for quite a while and thought something might have happened, so I came to check... I''m d you''re all right."


    What surprised Hong Jie, however, was the slight flush on La Signora''s face¡ªsomething she''d never seen before.


    "What could happen to me?" La Signora restored her icy expression and replied, "Are you doubting my capabilities?"


    "Of course not!" Hong Jie lowered her head at once.


    "No need to worry," La Signora replied coolly. "I''m close to seeding."


    "But how could we let you do this kind of task?" Hong Jie said, panicked. "Leave it to the others."


    "What nonsense are you saying?" La Signora snapped. "I... I have my own methods. Just stand by here and await my orders."


    "Understood!" Naturally, Hong Jie wouldn''t dare defy La Signora''smands and could only watch as she reentered the room.


    Still puzzled, Hong Jie couldn''t help but wonder: while the man was indeed handsome, he hardly seemed the type who could captivate La Signora.


    Upon returning to the room, La Signora found Lucas already preparing to put on his clothes. She hurriedly said, "Please, wait!"


    "What''s wrong?" he asked, puzzled. "Isn''t our time up?"


    "Th-they must have misread it," she improvised. "You still have... two more hours."


    "Wasn''t it only supposed to be two hours in total?" he asked, tilting his head.


    "A special promotion today¡ªbuy one, get one free." La Signora continued, "Besides, the best activities haven''t even started yet."


    "Oh? And how ''best'' are we talking?" he asked with a grin.


    After all, being a man, he couldn''t ignore a deal like this.


    "You''ll see for yourself," she replied, handing him a booklet. "This is the menu; just check off whatever catches your interest."


    This was certainly high-end.


    Scenes like this were things Lucas had only seen in films, and the woman in front of him was far more stunning than the actresses in those films.


    However, unlike the greedy protagonist from those movies, he didn''t choose every option. He only picked a few items with interesting names, then handed the booklet back to her. "These should be enough."


    La Signora epted the menu, but a slight frown appeared on her face.


    <i>Crystal Romance</i>, <i>Moonwalk</i>, <i>Desert Storm</i>, <i>Ants Climbing Trees</i>, <i>The Hanging Hook</i>...


    ---


    Author''s Note: Well here''s your extra chap, now you know the goal for next ones! get back to mines.

 Chapter 127: Villain Simulator, Ch 126

    <h4>Chapter 127: Viin Simtor, Ch 126</h4>


    Taken individually, the words on the menu made sense to La Signora. But when they were strung together, the meaning waspletely lost on her.


    Though her face was concealed behind a mask, Lucas could sense her hesitation. Trying to be considerate, he suggested, "If it''s too difficult, we can just skip it..."


    "No, there''s no difficulty."


    With La Signora''s pride, she would never admit defeat, especially not over something like this. Clutching the menu, she dered, "Wait here for a moment¡ªI''ll go prepare the props."


    Props, too?


    The thought stirred a bit of anticipation in him.


    Watching Number Eight''s figure disappear through the door, Lucas couldn''t help but feel a flutter of excitement.


    Outside, Hong Jie was still standing by, not expecting La Signora to emerge again so quickly. Could it be that the man was that quick?


    "Hong Jie," La Signora handed the menu over to her. "He selected these options."


    "I understand," Hong Jie nodded. "I''ll send someone in right away."


    "No." To her surprise, La Signora shook her head and said, "Show me...how these things are supposed to be done."


    "W-wha...what?" Hong Jie''s expression froze, momentarily wondering if she had misheard.


    "Do you not understand innguage?" La Signora replied with a hint of irritation. "I said, teach me how to perform these options, and as quickly as possible."


    Goodness, was their leader really going to get hands-on?


    "Understood!" Hong Jie answered immediately. "Please, follow me. I''ll... do my best to teach you."


    ---


    Lucas had expected he''d only need to wait a moment, but before he knew it, half an hour had passed, and he was nearly dozing off when the door finally opened again.


    La Signora entered, carrying an elegant little box, her face tinged with a slight blush. "Sorry to keep you waiting."


    "It''s...it''s all right." Lucas quickly perked up. "I took the chance to rest a bit."


    "Very well, let''s... begin."


    She opened the box and took out a small, quivering lump of translucent gel. "We''ll start with <i>Crystal Romance</i>. This is slime gel. Which type would you like to try?"


    Slime gel?


    Lucas couldn''t help but recall his past experiences with La Signora, remembering all the things they''d done with slime gel.


    "You mean I can pick different types?" he asked casually.


    "Yes," she replied, putting her recent crash course to use. "Electro Slime has a tingling sensation, Dendro Slime feels entwining, Anemo Slime has a cooling effect, Geo Slime has a gritty texture, and Hydro Slime is more slippery," she continued, reciting like a pro. "As for Cryo and Pyro Slimes, they''re typically used together."


    Wasn''t that the famed "double element delight"?


    Lucas remembered his friend Shen''s line: <i>See that? Now </i>that<i> is what you call professional!</i>


    "Which one would you like?" she asked again.


    "Only kids make choices," he grinned. "I''ll take them all."


    "Then...then let''s start." La Signora took a deep breath.


    Even now, she could hardly believe she was actually going through with this.


    Here she was, the proud Number Eight of the Fatui Harbingers, performing such a task in this dimly lit booth.


    Yet, the stark contrast between her esteemed identity and the nature of her current task stirred an unusual thrill within her.


    And to top it off, the man before her was the one she had shared her life with in her dreams.


    In battle, La Signora was a seasoned warrior¡ªshe had seen countless formidable foes fall beneath her ice and fire.


    Today, "ice" and "fire" were still her tools, but this time, her techniques were rough, unpolished. Clearly, many of the skills she''d once mastered in her dreams were now just hazy memories.


    But to Lucas, her earnest efforts only made her all the more charming and endearing.


    The feeling of being wrapped in all seven elemental types brought Lucas an unprecedented sense offort.


    "How does it feel?" La Signora asked, somewhat muffled, as she spat out the Cryo and Pyro Slime gel from her mouth.


    Lucas didn''t answer her question directly. Instead, he smiled and asked, "Do you want the honest answer or the polite one?"


    "Of course, the honest answer," La Signora replied immediately.


    Truthfully, she already knew what he''d say. After all, the *<i>Ring of Maniption</i>* was still firmly on Lucas''s wrist, proving that everything she''d just done had been for naught.


    "It was a bit painful," Lucas answered honestly. He reached out to wipe a bit of residue from the corner of her mouth and added, "But it''s not your fault. A mouth as pretty as yours wasn''t meant for this."


    "This is just the beginning," La Signora replied, her pride ring up. "I''ll show you what I''m really capable of next."


    "I look forward to it," Lucas nodded. "Please, continue."


    ---


    As it turned out, a crash course was hardly enough to master these intricate techniques, and half an hour of lessons didn''t quite equip La Signora to handle such specialized tasks.


    For the remaining activities, her performance was, at best, passable. While Lucas enjoyed himself, it wasn''t enough to bring him to a point of release.


    However, the faint pink glow in the *<i>Ring of Maniption</i>* burned ever brighter.


    Finally, after going through every item on the menu, the exhausted La Signora copsed onto the bed.


    This ordeal was a hundred times more taxing than any of her most difficult missions.


    In her mind, she couldn''t help but recall the way she had once described Lucas in her dreams.


    A beast.


    "Hah..." Lucas let out a low growl, like a bull in spring, restless with pent-up energy.


    La Signora lightly patted him on the shoulder and asked, "Are you all right?"


    "I... I''m just a little warm," Lucas replied, his voice dry.


    "Then let''s rest for a bit," La Signora sighed, "I could use a break too."


    But just as shey down, Lucas''s hand suddenly mped around her wrist.


    At her current level of strength, she could have fought him off, but she was already exhausted from the previous activities and didn''t have the energy to resist.


    More than that, she didn''t actually want to resist.


    After a brief struggle that amounted to nothing, La Signora finally gave in.


    "Do whatever you want," she said calmly. "After all, you are my guest."


    "I''m not your guest," Lucas replied, looking down at her. "I haven''t paid, so that doesn''t make me your guest."


    It wasn''t that Lucas intended to dodge the bill; he had more than enough assets to buy a lifetime membership here if he wanted.


    He just didn''t want to be "a guest" of Number Eight.


    And he didn''t want anyone else to be her guest, either.


    <strong>[Effect of "First ss of Red Wine" Activated]</strong><strong>[Reward: Increases Cryo Elemental Mastery by 50%, Pyro Elemental Mastery by 50%]</strong>


    ---


    The heated encounter finally concluded an hourter.


    To his surprise, Lucas found out that this wasn''t just her first day on the job¡ªshe seemed inexperienced in other areas as well.


    But La Signora was even more astonished.


    She discovered that the *<i>Ring of Maniption</i>* on Lucas''s wrist hadn''t loosened at the crucial moment.


    To verify if something had gone wrong, she even suggested a "round two."


    But the result was the same. Despite focusing all her energy, she hadn''t detected any signs of the ring''s control taking effect.


    Moreover, trying to stay focused in such a situation was already extremely difficult.


    Damn it, she had been tricked by the Doctor!


    By rights, the discovery should have made her furious. But as shey in Lucas''s arms, her emotions were strangelyplex.


    This was, after all, just a fleeting affair, and the man before her was nothing more than a "substitute" for her real lover.


    After tonight, there would no longer be a "Number Eight."


    "It''s time." La Signora gently nudged Lucas''s shoulder and said, "You should go."


    All good things are fleeting and bittersweet.


    Lucas didn''t say much. He simply got up in silence.


    Watching him leave, La Signora felt a cold chuckle rise within her. As expected, he was just another heartless man after all.


    But then, instead of heading for the door, Lucas suddenly asked, "How much?"


    "Didn''t you say you wouldn''t pay?" La Signora smirked. "It''s fine. My service wasn''t worth it, so I won''t charge you."


    "That''s not what I mean," Lucas turned back, his expression serious. "I meant, how much to buy you out of here?"


    La Signora froze momentarily, then let out a derisiveugh. "Typical. Men always want to y the hero, trying to ''redeem'' women. How hypocritical."


    "You''re right. I am hypocritical," Lucas admitted. "So, how much?"


    "You want to buy me?" La Signora extended five fingers andughed. "Fifty million Mora, and I''m yours."


    She hadn''t meant the number seriously.


    Who in their right mind would make such a foolish investment?


    "Fifty million?" Lucas''s eyes widened slightly.


    "Too expensive?" she sneered. "Then hurry up and leave."


    To her shock, Lucas pulled out the ck card that Diluc had given him. "This card''s limit is a hundred million. Let''s make it official¡ªhand over the contract."


    "Are you sure?" she asked, eyes wide. "That''s fifty million Mora!"


    "I''d already nned to take out a loan," Lucas replied,pletely earnest. "Didn''t expect it would only cost fifty million¡ªI got lucky."


    "You..."


    La Signora, fully aware of the card''s value, muttered in disbelief, "You must be insane."


    ---


    The door to the booth opened once more, and Hong Jie, who had been nodding off outside, quickly stood to attention.


    Seeing theplicated look on La Signora''s face, Hong Jie asked, "Is there anything else you need me to handle?"


    "Draft a contract," La Signora muttered, rubbing her forehead. "And charge fifty million on this card."


    "What''s that for?" Hong Jie asked with a puzzled expression. "Is the business up for sale?"


    "No," La Signora replied darkly, her gaze cold. "I''m the one for sale."


    What in the world?


    The business was running just fine, and now the boss had suddenly decided to sell herself?


    Could it be that her esteemed boss, The Fair Lady, was such a prodigy that after only half an hour of practice, she''d managed to captivate this man enough to make him spend fifty million just to buy her out?


    "The contract is now in effect."


    After pressing her fingerprint onto the document, La Signora handed the so-called "release contract" to Lucas.


    However, when he saw the name on the contract, Lucas''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "Your...your name is Rosalyne?" he murmured.


    "That''s right," she nodded. "Do you know me?"


    ---


    Author''s Note: Okay,st extra Chapter I am posting before we actually reach the goal now.

 Chapter 128: Villain Simulator, Ch 127

    <h4>Chapter 128: Viin Simtor, Ch 127</h4>


    At that moment, La Signora wished more than anything to hear the words "I know you" from Lucas''s lips.


    However, he merely shook his head. "No, I just thought it was a beautiful name, that''s all. I''ll keep this contract. From today onwards, you''re free...."


    "Huh?" Her expression changed. "Aren''t you going to take me with you? Byw, I... belong to you now."


    "No, you don''t belong to anyone." Lucas shook his head. "Go do what you want to do, live the life you want to live."


    For some reason, his words left La Signora feeling an unexpected sense of disappointment.


    For a fleeting moment, she thought that if he had simply said, "Come with me," she might have abandoned everything to follow him.


    Of course, that was impossible.


    Bing a Harbinger had meant severing all connections to the world. She could never leave¡ªthe Fatui and Her Majesty the Tsaritsa would never let her go.


    "Hmph..." She gave a coldugh. "Maybe one day, if I feel like it, I''lle back to this line of work."


    She said this to provoke Lucas, but he merely replied calmly, "If you really did that, I''d buy out all your time, just so you could only ever serve me."


    At that moment, hurried footsteps sounded outside the room. Hong Jie burst through the door, her brow furrowed. "There''s trouble¡ªthe Knights of Favonius are here for an inspection!"


    "The Knights of Favonius?" La Signora looked surprised. "Who has the nerve? Don''t they know who''s backing this ce?"


    "It''s E Lawrence," Hong Jie replied helplessly. "I told her, but she wouldn''t back down!"


    Lucas'' face immediately turned a deep shade of red.


    Yesterday he had been celebrated as a hero of the Knights, and today he might end up in a cell.


    And of all people, it had to be E¡ªthe one person who wouldn''t back down, no matter what.


    As he looked around the room in disarray, he knew that if E actually made it inside, he''d have a lot of exining to do. Or rather, there would be no exnation that could save him.


    "Open the door!"


    "Captain, there''s no one in this room!"


    "Split up and search over there¡ªI''ll take this side!"


    That familiar voice was now just outside the door.


    If E found him here, she''d likely regret ever handing him her family''s heirloom sword.


    A loud knock sounded on the door. "Knights of Favonius! Open up!"


    "Stay here. I''ll handle this."


    Just as Lucas felt he was out of options, La Signora stepped up and left the room without a word.


    ---


    "Hurry up and open the door!" E demanded coldly. "Or I''ll kick it down myself!"


    "What''s with the racket?"


    The door opened, and La Signora stepped out slowly, sneering, "The infamous Spindrift Knight of the Favonius? You do realize this establishment is under the protection of the Fatui, don''t you?"


    "So what?" E replied, unfazed. "In Mondstadt, all establishments are subject to Mondstadt''sws. You''re not conducting any... illegal business in there, are you?"


    "How rude!"


    With a piercing re, La Signora removed her mask. "Do you honestly believe I would stoop to making deals in a ce like this?"


    "La... La Signora?" E took an instinctive step back, visibly shocked. "Why are you here?"


    "Of course, I''m here for some covert dealings," she said mockingly, stepping aside. "Please, Captain E, go right ahead and take a look."


    In the booth, Lucas nearly dove under the bed in panic. Facing murderers on the streets was one thing, but this level of social humiliation was another matter entirely.


    "But... if you don''t find anything suspicious," La Signora whispered, "rest assured the Fatui won''t take an unfounded insult to a Harbinger lying down."


    Though E was known for her fierce personality, she wasn''t reckless.


    She didn''t understand why La Signora was here, but with her status, there was no way she was involved in anything shady. If she searched and found nothing, the Fatui would surely make a scandal of it.


    At that moment, the other Knights arrived, reporting, "Captain E, we found... nothing unusual."


    "This is a legitimate massage parlor," La Signora said with a shrug. "I just came here to rx, only to be mistaken for some woman of the night. Is this how the Knights of Mondstadt handle their investigations?"


    "I..." E was left speechless and seething, unsure of how to respond.


    Continuing the search would undoubtedly give the Fatui leverage, but backing down here could damage her own credibility in front of her subordinates.


    Just then, a loud explosion shook the air outside. A Knight rushed in, looking rmed. "Captain E, an unknown explosion just went off at the Church of Favonius¡ªit appears to be intentional!"


    This sudden turn of events provided E with an exit. She immediately ordered, "Everyone, follow me to investigate."


    "Oh?" La Signora taunted. "Not going to keep searching?"


    "There''s a time and ce for everything," E shot back with a re before turning on her heel. "Consider yourself lucky today."


    After the Knights left, La Signora finally allowed herself to rx.


    Despite her bold front, she had no idea how she would have handled things if E had indeed forced her way inside.


    ---


    "They''re gone," La Signora said, donning her mask once more and opening the door to the booth. "You''d better leave quickly."


    "I..." Lucas hesitated, feeling a pang of reluctance. "Will we... ever meet again?"


    "What''s this?" La Signora sneered. "Not satisfied?"


    "No... it''s not like that," Lucas shook his head. "It''s not that kind of meeting I meant."


    "We probably won''t," she said, suppressing a flicker of disappointment. "Wee from two different worlds."


    "I understand." Lucas nodded, a touch of mncholy in his expression. "I have onest request, then."


    La Signora seemed to have anticipated his request and replied calmly, "If I''m not mistaken, you probably want to see what I really look like, don''t you?"


    Lucas nodded silently.


    "That''s out of the question!" Hong Jie protested at once. "She''s¡ª"


    "Hong Jie, step outside, please," La Signora waved her hand. "It''s fine."


    As a Fatui Harbinger, La Signora rarely showed her face publicly. Even in Mondstadt, only a few high-ranking members of the Knights of Favonius had ever seen her true appearance due to work-rted interactions.


    Reluctantly, Hong Jie left the room.


    La Signora hesitated for a moment, then slowly removed her mask.


    In that instant, it felt as if the very air around them froze.


    It really was her.


    What shocked Lucas wasn''t her face itself, but the realization of who she was and the mystery of why she was in a ce like this, doing such things with him.


    But La Signora simply asked, "Beautiful, isn''t it?"


    "Yes," Lucas nodded. "It''s worth far more than fifty million Mora."


    "Think of tonight as nothing but a dream," she said, putting her mask back on. "Also, that bracelet on your wrist is incredibly dangerous. You''d better find a way to get rid of it soon."


    Lucas blinked, remembering that as a Fatui Harbinger, she might indeed know something about the bracelet.


    But just as he was about to ask, he held back. After all, in the real world, he and La Signora weren''t supposed to have any connection, much less knowledge of each other''s true identities.


    Perhaps that was why she had shown him her true face.


    In her eyes, his reaction was merely that of being captivated by her beauty, so she said nothing further, turned, and walked back into her room, leaving him with four final words:


    "Forget about me."


    It had been but a fleeting dream.


    La Signora understood her own nature all too well; she was a consuming ze, and anyone who came close to her would eventually be engulfed.


    ---


    Lucas wandered the dark streets in a daze, too preupied to even notice that Kaeya had mysteriously "disappeared" without a word.


    Out of all the women he''d encountered in various simtions, La Signora, or rather Rosalyne, was unlike any other. Bound to him by a five-hundred-year entanglement that went deeper than any ordinary connection, she was not someone he could simply forget.


    Especially after her parting words, "Forget about me," which seemed to dere the end of whatever destiny they might have had in this life.


    Rather than returning home, he roamed the streets aimlessly, until the sound of hurried footsteps caught his attention.


    "Who goes there? Why are you wandering the streets at this hour?"


    He looked up to find a group of Knights of Favonius, the leader already gripping the hilt of his sword with a wary expression. "Could you be the thief who stole the Holy Lyre?"


    Before Lucas could respond, a familiar voice called out from behind him, "He has nothing to do with this; he''s a friend of mine."


    E had appeared behind him at some point, frowning slightly. "Why are you always outte at night?"


    Theirst encounter had also been during the dead of night.


    "I... couldn''t sleep, so I went for a walk," Lucas said,ing up with a weak excuse before changing the subject. "What happened?"


    "Hmph, didn''t you hear the explosion earlier?" E replied with a huff. "Someone blew up part of the Church of Favonius and stole the Holy Lyre of Barbatos. To pull off something this outrageous¡ªthis is personal!"


    "Could it have been... Klee?" Lucas ventured.


    "No, not likely. As mischievous as that little girl is, even she wouldn''t go this far," E shook her head. "Unless, of course, she wants to spend the rest of her life in the confinement room."


    "I''ll help with the search," Lucas said, giving his face a light p to snap himself out of his thoughts. "Might as well make myself useful."


    [500 Virtue Points Awarded]


    In truth, he just wanted to distract himself.


    And perhaps earn a few extra points.


    "Suit yourself," E replied, nodding in acknowledgment of his abilities. "If you pull this off, you might even be granted honorary knighthood with the Knights of Favonius."


    "Me? A Liyue native, joining the Knights of Favonius as an honorary knight?" Lucas chuckled. "No need for that¡ªhappy to lend a hand."


    "Let''s search over that way," E ordered her men. "And inform the guards to lock down the city. Tonight, I don''t even want a fly to slip through."


    If word got out that the Holy Lyre had been stolen, it would be a massive embarrassment for the Knights of Favonius.


    As E led her team away, Lucas took off in a different direction.


    With his enhanced senses and the [Night Vision] ability, his skills were well beyond ordinary, and he was ideally suited for tracking in the dark.


    However, searching the streets on foot was inefficient. While climbing walls would be faster, his current white attire made him too visible, risking detection.


    Then he had an idea.


    He took out the <i>Nano Suit (Youth Edition)</i> and slipped it on, issuing a few quickmands to transform it into a ck stealth suit,plete with a hood and cloak.


    "Hello, Mondstadt''s very own Batman!" he said to himself, striking a pose and admiring his appearance.


    After all, every young man dreams of being a superhero at some point, and Lucas was no exception.


    Thus, Mondstadt weed a second "Dark Knight" to its skies that night.


    ---


    "Hey, kid!"


    In a dim alley, two thugs had a young boy cornered, sneering, "Hand over your coin pouch!"


    "No! I earned this money by collecting empty bottles every night!" The boy held his coin pouch tightly to his chest, defiant. "I''m saving up to find my dad!"


    "Little Timmie, your dad''s long dead," one of the thugs taunted,ughing. "Tell you what¡ªgive us your money, and I''ll be your new dad. Go on, say ''Daddy''! Hahaha..."


    Bang!


    ----


    Author''s Note: Oh well

 Chapter 129: Villain Simulator, Ch 128

    <h4>Chapter 129: Viin Simtor, Ch 128</h4>


    The thug hadn''t finished his taunt when a powerful kick sent him sprawling. To his shock, his assant was a mysterious figure dressed in ck, cloaked, and looking every bit like a "vignte."


    "W-who are you?" the other thug stammered, drawing a dagger from his belt. "Just because you dress up doesn''t mean I''m afraid of you!"


    This "vignte" was none other than Lucas. While searching for the stolen Holy Lyre, he''d stumbled upon this attempted robbery and couldn''t resist stepping in to y the hero.


    Naturally, these thugs were no match for him. Though he initially nned to give them a quick lesson, a mischievous idea shed through his mind, and a wicked smile crossed his face.


    "Witch''s Prank!" (Renamed the Witch''s Mischievous Kiss to this)


    Lucas waved his hand at the two thugs, and a magical aura surrounded them.


    This skill, a gift from Alice, cast a random spell effect.


    [Magic Activated: Chicken Transformation]


    [Effect: Turns the target into chickens for 24 hours]


    The two thugs began to transform, feathers sprouting as they morphed into clucking chickens. They took one look at each other, squawked in terror, and pped their wings as they fled down the alley.


    "Better run fast!" Lucas taunted, chuckling. "Or you''ll end up as Sweet Madame tomorrow!"


    As Lucas turned to leave, a young voice called out, "Th-thank you!"


    This kid was Timmie?


    The boy who fed pigeons at the city gate.


    Mondstadt''s top "poultry tycoon."


    And supposedly, though disproven, a secret Fatui Harbinger.


    "No need to thank me," Lucas said with a smile. "If anything, thank the pigeons you fed."


    After all, before he''d obtained the [Viin Simtor], his "viinous" acts mostly involved scaring away Timmie''s pigeons each morning, then making a quick buck by selling them as poultry.


    "I-I get it!" Timmie''s face lit up in excitement. "You''re the embodiment of those pigeons¡ªthe Dark Pigeon Knight!"


    That name was awful!


    Was it because he''d "ghosted" the pigeons so many times that this nickname stuck?


    "Uh, are there even ck pigeons?" Lucas asked, exasperated.


    "Of course!" Timmie replied confidently. "There are gray ones, blue ones, white ones, and yes, even ck ones!"


    Just then, Lucas caught the faint sound of a lyre in the distance. With a leap, he vanished from Timmie''s sight.


    "Goodbye, Dark Pigeon Knight!" Timmie shouted, waving enthusiastically. "I''ll remember you!"


    Little did Lucas know, the title of "Dark Pigeon Knight" would soon spread far and wide, and he''d be known alongside Mondstadt''s "Darknight Hero" as one of the "Twin Knights of Mondstadt."


    ---


    The faint strains of a lyre floated on the night air, barely perceptible but impossible for Lucas to miss. Moving carefully, he traced the sound to its source.


    As he neared the origin, he slowed his pace to avoid detection.


    Though not an expert in music, even he could tell that this "melody" was dissonant, as if someone were randomly plucking the strings without any knowledge of music.


    Compared to the original owner''s ethereal performances on the Holy Lyre, this was painfully unrefined.


    Soon, Lucas reached a pavilion where he spotted the musician: a figure holding the Holy Lyre, casually plucking its strings.


    Thanks to his night vision, Lucas could observe the person from behind¡ªa slight figure wearing distinctly non-Mondstadt attire.


    It was odd. Why steal the lyre, only to linger here ying it as if drawing attention?


    Lucas''s mind shed back to the game''s storyline.


    The Holy Lyre belonged to Barbatos, the Anemo Archon, and could summon Dvalin, the Dragon of the East, through music.


    But as far as he knew, only Venti, the lyre''s original owner, could wield that power.


    Just as he debated whether to retrieve the lyre, a strong gust of wind suddenly arose, then dissipated, revealing a green-d bard standing before the thief.


    It was Venti!


    Lucas realized the thief must have been trying to lure Barbatos himself.


    "All right, enough games," Venti sighed, shaking his head. "Hand over the Holy Lyre. That thing''s not even worth much."


    "Oh? You showed up quicker than I thought," the thief set down the lyre, smiling. "Barbatos... or should I call you Venti?"


    The thief''s voice was strikingly neutral, making it hard to determine their gender. Even stranger, Lucas felt he''d heard it somewhere before.


    Recognizing his true identity, Venti''s yful smile faded as he appraised the figure before him. "So it''s you Fatui again. Fine by me; if we''re going to fight, I won''t hold back."


    The Fatui?


    As the clouds parted and moonlight spilled over the pavilion, Lucas finally saw the thief clearly¡ªa slight, deceptively innocent figure with short ck hair, a hat, and the attire of an Inazuman drifter.


    Scaramouche!


    Yet another figure Lucas could recognize instantly.


    What were the chances? In a single night, he''d encountered both the Sixth Harbinger, Raiden Ei''s creation, and Mondstadt''s elusive Anemo Archon.


    Lucas wasn''t confident enough to confront either alone. But if he chose to join one side, it could greatly sway the other''s advantage.


    This dilemma left him conflicted. Logically, he should back Venti, but a part of him was reluctant to oppose Scaramouche.


    After weighing his options, he decided to wait and observe, ready to act if the need arose.


    "Why resort to violence?" Scaramouche spread his hands in a cating gesture. "Why not make a deal? I''ll trade the Holy Lyre... in exchange for your Gnosis."


    "Though a Gnosis isn''t of much use to me, giving it away so easily would be quite a waste," Venti replied, chuckling softly. "Do you think defeating an Archon is that easy?"


    Even a weakened Archon like Venti still carried the power and wisdom of millennia. No one would assume that hecked skill, even if his carefree demeanor suggested otherwise.


    In the game''s storyline, Venti had indeed once been defeated by the Eighth Harbinger, "La Signora." However, that battle had been colored by Venti''s lingering guilt towards Rosalyne, so he had held back "just a little."


    But facing Scaramouche, Venti had no reason to pull his punches.


    "I admit, I don''t have the confidence to defeat you," Scaramouche said, his slender pinky plucking one of the strings of the Holy Lyre as he smiled. "But I am confident that I can destroy the lyre before you beat me."


    "Go ahead and break it," Venti replied nonchntly, smiling as if unfazed. "As long as you don''t mind the beating you''ll get afterward."


    "Don''t mind?" Scaramouche sneered. Without hesitation, he yanked at one of the strings with a sharp twang, snapping it in half.


    Venti''s face immediately betrayed a flicker of pain.


    "All right, all right!" he cried out. "Fine, you win. This lyre does mean something to me. So, tell me¡ªwhat are your terms?"


    "Simple." Scaramouche smirked. "We both ce our items on the ground, then walk to each other''s position to retrieve what we want."


    It was clear that this arrangement was meant to prevent any underhanded tricks from either side. After all, neither Venti nor Scaramouche was known for being straightforward.


    "As you wish."


    Venti sighed, retrieving a Gnosis-shaped chess piece from his chest. "To think that a once-gentle woman would end up raising such a troublesome bunch."


    Was he agreeing so easily?


    Lucas was taken aback. In his mind, Venti wasn''t the type topromise without a fight.


    Both ced the Holy Lyre and the Gnosis down, and then slowly walked toward each other''s position.


    As they drew closer, Lucas felt an inexplicable tension. Somehow, he doubted things would go this smoothly.


    When the two figures crossed paths, Lucas''s heart raced, expecting a sudden twist. But to his surprise, they merely walked past each other without incident.


    The distance between them was short, and they soon reached each other''s items. However, neither of them immediately reached out to im what they hade for.


    "What''s wrong?" Venti asked with a smile. "Don''t you really want that Gnosis?"


    "I do," Scaramouche replied, smirking. "But I know this one''s a fake."


    With that, Scaramouche lifted his foot and stomped down, shattering the fake Gnosis into pieces.


    Before Venti could react, Scaramouche''s figure suddenly vanished in a burst of purple mist. From within that mist, another Scaramouche emerged, plunging his hand directly into Venti''s chest and ripping out the real Gnosis in his palm.


    Venti stumbled back, ring. "You''re resorting to tricks?"


    "You started it," Scaramouche scoffed. "Trying to fool me with a fake Gnosis? Did you really think I''d fall for that?"


    "Fine," Venti said, visibly displeased. "Since you have the Gnosis, hand the Holy Lyre back to me."


    "You mean this?" Scaramouche sneered, raising the Holy Lyre before smashing it to the ground, its delicate frame splintering upon impact.


    "Destroying someone''s cherished possession feels rather satisfying," he said, grinding the lyre''s fragments beneath his heel. "Pathetic Archon. You''re nothing special."


    "You...!"


    For the first time, Venti''s eyes shed with fury, and a swirling vortex of wind began to coil around him.


    This was the first time Lucas had ever seen Venti this angry. In his mind, Venti had always been a carefree bard who couldugh off almost anything, even a p in the face. Clearly, the Holy Lyre was deeply significant to him.


    "Finally getting serious?" Scaramouche''s eyes gleamed with fervor. "Good. Show me what a god can do."


    Nicknamed "Kabukimono," or "The Vagrant," Scaramouche was built to embody destructive power. He was no ordinary foe, strengthened even further by the power gifted to him by the Tsaritsa.


    "Wind''s Grand Ode!"


    A shortbow materialized between Venti''s hands, and he loosed an arrow in Scaramouche''s direction. Scaramouche sidestepped, smirking.


    "Too slow," Scaramouche taunted. "Even Childe''s arrows are faster than that..."


    But before he could finish, a violent gust erupted behind him. The arrow had transformed into a vortex, a raging Stormeye that sucked in everything nearby.


    Scaramouche, standing closest, was instantly caught in the tempest.


    In the game, this ability was mostly useful for gathering enemies, but now, fueled by Venti''s wrath, it had be a deadly executioner.


    "Crush him!"


    Venti clenched his hands, and as he did, the force of the vortex intensified. Trees around them splintered under the pressure, and the winds shed at Scaramouche, shredding his clothing and leaving deep cuts across his skin. Were he a mere mortal, he would have been reduced to mincemeat by now.


    "Enough."


    Venti finally let go, dispersing the Stormeye. Scaramouche stumbled to the ground, battered and bleeding, his clothes in tatters.


    "Have you learned what it means to face a god?" Venti asked coldly. "If I were my old self, you would''ve been scattered with the wind."


    "Stop!"


    At that moment, Lucas could no longer remain a silent observer. Stepping out from the shadows, he removed his mask. "It''s me!"


    "You?" Venti frowned. "Why would you plead for a Harbinger? Do you have ties to the Fatui?"


    "I... I''m just thinking about the bigger picture," Lucas replied earnestly. "If a Fatui Harbinger dies here in Mondstadt, it would cause no end of trouble. The Tsaritsa wouldn''t let it go unchallenged."


    By now, Venti''s anger had subsided somewhat. He knew that if he killed Scaramouche, it would only give Snezhnaya grounds to act against Mondstadt.


    Besides, he hated unnecessary trouble. If Scaramouche''s death stirred Snezhnaya''s wrath, his peaceful life as a wandering bard woulde to an abrupt end.


    As much as he understood the reasoning, Venti still nced at the shattered Holy Lyre, a flicker of regret in his eyes.


    Barbatos, along with Morax, was one of the oldest gods, and for both of them, the rare relics that connected them to their past held special meaning.


    But now, one of the few remnants of Venti''s connection to his former self had been destroyed beyond repair. There was no way he could forgive Scaramouche so easily.


    ---


    Author''s Note: yes.. the name''s awful but kinda funny..

 Chapter 130: Villain Simulator, Ch 129

    <h4>Chapter 130: Viin Simtor, Ch 129</h4>


    Seeing the conflicted look on Venti''s face, Lucas added, "How about this¡ªI''ll restore your Holy Lyre in exchange for sparing Scaramouche''s life."


    "Restore it?" Venti scoffed, giving a helpless smile. "The techniques for crafting the Holy Lyre have been lost for ages, not to mention it''s shattered to pieces. There''s no way you could fix it."


    "How do you know if we don''t try?"


    Lucas gathered up the fragments of the Holy Lyre and began applying the alchemy techniques he had learned in the simtor. The Holy Lyre''s craftsmanship might have been ancient, but its materials were rtively simple. And since Lucas wasn''t creating a new instrument but rather restoring an existing one, as long as the molecr structure remained, he could bring it back to its original form.


    "There," Lucas said, handing the fully restored lyre back to a stunned Venti. "Good as new."


    "Is this... real?" Venti turned the lyre over in his hands, examining it from every angle. "This isn''t some kind of illusion, is it?"


    "No illusion, just alchemy," Lucas replied calmly.


    "Alchemy?" Venti murmured, genuinely impressed. "You really are full of surprises."


    In the game''s storyline, after the lyre had been damaged, Venti had only managed to pass it off as whole with illusions, which showed just how hard it was to truly restore.


    "Just a basic skill I picked up," Lucas said humbly, lifting Scaramouche''s unconscious form in his arms. "Now, can I take him and leave?"


    After a moment''s hesitation, Venti sighed and waved his hand. "Fine, take him. He''s learned his lesson anyway. Do with him what you like."


    "Thank you," Lucas said with a nod and quickly made his way out, carrying Scaramouche.


    Venti watched them leave, a curious expression on his face. "First, he takes all those photos of me, and now he saves this pretty-faced Harbinger... Could he actually be interested in men?"


    "Over here! Elemental traces just appeared in this direction!"


    At that moment, hurried footsteps sounded as E and a group of Knights of Favonius rushed over, drawn by the lingering elemental energy in the air.


    "Hey there!" Venti waved at them cheerfully, holding the restored Holy Lyre. "I just¡ª"


    "Seize him!"


    Before he could finish, E seized his shoulder firmly. "We''ve caught the thief red-handed¡ªa bard, huh? At least you''re a somewhat cultured thief."


    "Wait, wait! This is a misunderstanding!" Venti cried out, a smile frozen on his face. "I''m not the thief!"


    "Save it," E said sternly. "You can exin everything back at headquarters."


    "I''m innocent!" Venti''s pleas of protest faded into the night air as he was led away.


    ---


    <i>Inside the Serenitea Pot.</i>


    Lucas didn''t bring Scaramouche back to his lodging, as showing up with an injured Harbinger would surely attract unwanted attention.


    Instead, he headed to the Serenitea Pot, a safe, hidden space where Raiden Mai had already set up various facilities, making it an ideal ce to tend to Scaramouche''s wounds.


    Though Lucas possessed the [Medical Sage] skill and had restored Scaramouche''s body countless times in the simtor, those procedures had always relied on high-end equipment and resources provided by Snezhnaya.


    Currently, the Serenitea Pot''s setup was far too basic for such an intricate repair. Unlike the Holy Lyre, Scaramouche''s body was aplex, precision-made puppet. Lucas''s level of alchemical skill was nowhere near enough to guarantee a full restoration, and even a minor error could have fatal consequences.


    Just as he found himself at a loss, Raiden Mai appeared beside him, seemingly out of nowhere.


    "Scanning in progress..."


    Raiden Mai''s eyes scanned Scaramouche rapidly, analyzing him with an unfeeling expression. "Unit 0000 detected. Initial model, damage level at 78%, beyond self-repair limits. Core is critically damaged and irreparable. Estimated time untilplete failure: one hour."


    Of course!


    Lucas suddenly remembered that Raiden Mai, like Scaramouche, was also a puppet created by the Raiden Ei. If anyone could restore him, it would be her.


    "Is there a way to save him?" he asked urgently.


    Raiden Mai hesitated briefly, then nodded. "If it is your wish, there is one solution."


    "And that is?" Lucas pressed.


    "All puppets rely on their core as the essentialponent," she exined, tapping her chest. "If my core is imnted in him, he will be restored."


    "And... what would happen to you?" A feeling of unease stirred in Lucas.


    "I would cease to function, just as a human would die without a heart." Her tone was calm, almost indifferent. "Would you like me to initiate the process? All you need to do is remove my core and imnt it into him."


    "No..." Lucas shook his head firmly. "Trading one life for another? I can''t do that."


    After all, while Scaramouche resembled the one from the simtor, he wasn''t the same person.


    Based on what he knew, Scaramouche was, at best, a cunning and untrustworthy individual.


    "Wait!" A thought suddenly crossed his mind. "If it''s only a matter of having a core, then couldn''t I... create a new one?"


    "That''s correct." Raiden Mai nodded. "But there''s only one core here."


    "No..." Lucas''s face lit up with a smile. "I think I can make another."


    Repairing Scaramouche was indeed challenging, but crafting a recement puppet core using alchemy alone simplified things considerably.


    "Mai!" Lucas called, struck by an idea. "Could you let me examine your core?"


    To recreate an object with alchemy, he needed both the materials and an understanding of its structure. With something asplex as a "puppet core," seeing the internalyout was essential.


    "Of course."


    With no hesitation, Raiden Mai began to unfasten her cor.


    Despite knowing she was a puppet, Lucas couldn''t help but feel a little self-conscious about watching her perform such a gesture in front of him.


    Especially given that her body was so lifelike, with skin that even felt and appeared real.


    "Please proceed," Raiden Mai said, her face impassive. "To ess my innerpartment, you''ll need to input a code."


    "A code?" Lucas''s cheeks flushed slightly. "Not to mention, I don''t even know what the code is. And if I did... how exactly would I input it?"


    There didn''t seem to be any obvious interface for it.


    "My model number is LD0413. The password is 0413," Raiden Mai exined. "You input the code by pressing specific buttons ording to the numbers."


    "Buttons?" Lucas looked at her in confusion. "Where are these buttons?"


    "In order to make puppets as lifelike as possible, all controls are integrated into the body," she said with a slight pause. "Wherever you think the buttons might be, that''s where they''ll be."


    Where they "might" be?


    Lucas froze for a moment before it dawned on him.


    "Is... is that really how it works?" he murmured, realizing what she meant. "So, I press four times on the left, and then thirteen on the right?"


    He couldn''t help but wonder if the buttons would hold up under that much pressure.


    "No, the left side controls the first two digits, and the right side thest two," Raiden Mai continued in her usual calm tone. "So, four on the left, and thirteen on the right."


    Incredible technology! Lucas wondered how Raiden Ei hade up with such a "creative" solution.


    "Uh... could you... press them yourself?" he asked, hoping to dodge the task.


    "Puppets are unable to self-operate in this way," Raiden Mai replied, shaking her head. "Also, I should mention that unit LD0000''s damage level is continuing to rise."


    "Fine! I understand!" Lucas forced himself to focus and pressed the designated "buttons."


    However, the buttons weren''t quite what he had pictured... In fact, they didn''t resemble buttons at all.


    But when pressed, they did pop back like buttons, more or less.


    "Pressing down one centimeter will ensure proper input," Raiden Mai added. "Please proceed; puppets do not experience pain."


    One centimeter down?


    Lucas swallowed and pressed with a bit more force, feeling her body give way slightly as he pushed the "button."


    With a soft sound, Raiden Mai let out a barely audible hum.


    "What''s wrong?" Lucas immediately stopped, concerned he might have broken something.


    "It''s simply the feedback sound indicating a sessful input," she replied. "This sound can be changed if desired to something like ''Ah,'' ''Oh,'' or even ''Mmm''¡ª"


    "Let''s... stick with the default," Lucas quickly resumed pressing, eager to avoid any further awkwardness.


    Finally, after seventeen inputs and seventeen feedback sounds, he seeded in opening Raiden Mai''s innerpartment. Unlike a human body, her internal structure wasplex, revealing a pulsing core that glowed faintly, resembling a beating heart.


    "Please be careful," she said, with a rare trace of concern in her voice. "Once removed, I will immediately cease functioning. If it isn''t reinstalled within thirty minutes, my system will shut downpletely."


    "I understand." Lucas nodded, carefully extracting the core from her chest.


    As soon as the core was removed, Raiden Mai''s gaze lost all life, her body going limp like a machine suddenly cut off from its power source.


    Lucas wasted no time, diving into his analysis of the core''s structure. Fortunately, though intricately designed, it didn''t require particrly rare materials. Mostponents could be found within the Serenitea Pot.


    He retrieved Scaramouche''s damaged core and confirmed that its design was nearly identical to Mei''s. Using the broken core as a base, he began reconstructing it through alchemy.


    Of course, given that Raiden Ei had originally created it, not all materials could be easily sourced. The most crucialponent, Amethyst, was exclusive to Inazuma and a highly rare Shogunate resource, unavable on the market.


    Thankfully, Lucas still had a Philosopher''s Stone on hand, which could substitute any material needed in alchemy synthesis.


    Like a wild card in a game, the Philosopher''s Stone could act as any requiredponent.


    Sess!


    With Raiden Mai''s core design analyzed, Lucas managed to create an identical core. He quickly installed it into each puppet''s chest cavity.


    "Rebooting..."


    Seeing Raiden Maie back to life reassured Lucas; his heart finally calmed down.


    Scaramouche, however, remained unconscious.


    "What''s going on?" Lucas asked anxiously. "Why hasn''t Scaramouche woken up yet? Is something wrong?"


    "Recing the core was the most critical step," Raiden Mai exined. "I''ll take over from here and handle the remaining repairs."


    "Thank you. Please restore him to the same..." Lucas''s voice trailed off as darkness closed in, and he copsed.


    Although he didn''t operate with "magic points" or "stamina bars," performing alchemy twice in rapid session had drained him. Now that the immediate danger was past, his exhaustion caught up with him, and he fainted on the spot.


    Raiden Mai swiftly caught him as he fell, murmuring, "Restore him to be just like me... Understood, Master. I will fulfill your instructions."


    Gently, Raiden Mai carried Lucas to the adjoining rest room andid him down to recuperate. She then returned alone to the room where Scaramouchey, his eyes closed as hey motionless on the hospital bed. Mei''s expression grew pensive as she looked at him, and she murmured to herself:


    "First, let''s get rid of... the unnecessary parts."


    Just like in the simtor, Scaramouche''s body as a "puppet" was constructed with many modrponents that could be added or removed as needed.


    However, unlike the simtor, after countless years, Scaramouche had chosen to reinforce his self-image by attaching certain "male essories."


    Naturally, this "addition" was purely decorative¡ªthere was no functional mechanism to operate it.


    Seeing this part, even the typically stoic Raiden Mai couldn''t help but twitch at the corners of her mouth.


    What... is this? A teapot?


    It looked like something a kindergarten student would put together for an arts-and-crafts project. Though Mai had never seen a real one, she was certain this shape had no resemnce to anything a human body would naturally possess.


    And the positioning was strange too. In fact, it wasn''t exactly "attached" at all¡ªmore like it had simply been tucked into ce.


    Now, seeing this absurdly unnecessary piece, Raiden Mai coolly raised her tool, and with one clean cut, removed it entirely.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Okay, let''s reach 1100 p.s. and I''ll post the next Chapter with surgeon raiden mai immediately ??

 Chapter 131: Villain Simulator, Ch 130

    <h4>Chapter 131: Viin Simtor, Ch 130</h4>


    Raiden Mai examined the small "essory" she had removed, shook her head in disapproval, and tossed it into the trash bin.


    On the LD model of puppet, such additions were utterly unnecessary.


    To Raiden Mai, all of Raiden Ei''s creations were based on her own perfect design, and adding anything extra was, in her view, a "desecration" of that perfection.


    What? Why does a puppet need such an ample "buffer zone" in the chest area?


    Well, obviously, it''s there to protect the puppet''s core with a cushion!


    "No wonder the core was so badly damaged," Raiden Mai murmured, frowning at Scaramouche''s rtively t chest. "Being the first model, it''s no surprise the protective measures were a bitcking. Fine, I''ll install a C-sized buffer... no, maybe a D-sized one."


    "Wait, the master did say to make her exactly like me..." Raiden Mai hesitated, then decided, "I suppose E-size it is."


    Raiden Mai, unlike Lucas, couldn''t craft an intricate puppet core. However, the repairs on other bodyponents were well within her capabilities as a puppet.


    Little did Scaramouche know, but that night would mark a major turning point in... well, her life.


    ---


    The Next Morning


    "Yawn..."


    Lucas stretched and sat up, rubbing his eyes. To his surprise, Raiden Mai was standing beside his bed. As he awoke, she inclined her head and announced, "Master, the operation was a sess."


    "Really?" Lucas was instantly alert, his fatigue forgotten. "Has Scaramouche regained consciousness?"


    "Not yet," she replied. "Estimated time to wake is approximately one hour."


    "Take me to see her," he said, grabbing Raiden Mai''s hand.


    The instant Lucas touched her, Raiden Mai seemed to freeze momentarily, as though her system briefly paused, but she quickly returned to herposed self. "Please, follow me."


    When they reached Scaramouche, Lucas''s smile froze in ce as he looked at her resting on the bed, her face peacefully flushed.


    "It''s definitely Scaramouche, but..." Lucas''s face reddened. "But... I don''t remember things being this... well, big."


    Neither in real life nor in the simtor had things looked like this.


    He rubbed his eyes to make sure he wasn''t seeing things and then stammered, "H-how did she end up... like this?"


    "Isn''t this what you instructed?" Raiden Mai replied calmly, expression unchanging. "You requested that I restore her to be just like me."


    Lucas suddenly realized his mistake.


    It was his iplete instruction that had caused the misunderstanding.


    Of course, he couldn''t entirely me Mai; she was, after all, a puppet and followed orders precisely.


    Besides, she had already mentioned that Scaramouche would wake within the hour, so he doubted they had time to make further adjustments.


    "It''s... fine, just like this," Lucas said with a sheepish smile. "You did well. Thank you."


    "It was my duty," Raiden Mai nodded. "Additionally, I took the liberty of programmingmands into her puppet core. She will now, like me, prioritize carrying out your instructions."


    Could she really do that?


    While it might be a bit excessive, Lucas figured he could just avoid using that function. After all, Mai had spent the entire night painstakingly working on Scaramouche''s repairs; it would be rude toin.


    Lucas decided not to let Scaramouche awaken inside the teapot domain, so he transported her back to the real world.


    ---


    A whileter, Scaramouche stirred from unconsciousness and opened her eyes groggily.


    "Am I... still alive?"


    The unfamiliar ceiling, the strange scents, and... an unusual sensation in her body?


    Scaramouche sat up abruptly, feeling an unexpected weight on her chest that wasn''t there before.


    She slowly looked down and found that she could no longer see her own feet.


    What... is this?


    Why does my body have these things now?


    A thought struck her, and she frantically reached downward.


    Nothing there!


    The plug had be a socket!


    Herst memory was of being shredded by Venti''s Stormeye. But now, there was no sign of damage on her body.


    Could it be that I was retrieved and then modified by the Doctor?


    Considering the Doctor''s twisted nature, she couldn''t put such an idea past him.


    "Damn..." she muttered, scanning her surroundings to get a sense of the situation. But then, she heard a faint sizzling sound from a nearby room.


    Her guard instantly went up, and she moved cautiously in that direction, where she spotted a man''s back, standing in what appeared to be a kitchen.


    Not the Doctor!


    The figure''s back seemed vaguely familiar, but she was certain she didn''t know this man.


    Friend or foe?


    For Scaramouche, it was a simple question¡ªshe didn''t have any friends.


    She crept silently toward Lucas, intending to subdue him from behind, but just as she raised her fist, her body froze mid-motion, her arm hanging in the air, refusing to follow hermand.


    Why can''t I hit him? Why won''t my body move?


    Scaramouche struggled, trying toprehend why she couldn''tnd the punch. It wasn''t an external force stopping her¡ªit was her own mind, somehow refusing to let her strike.


    Lucas, sensing something amiss, turned around to find Scaramouche frozen mid-swing, caught in a strange, awkward position.


    Their eyes met, and Scaramouche''s gaze widened instantly.


    It was him¡ªthe "Doctor" from her dreams.


    Though he looked younger and dressed differently, his face and that unmistakable aura were exactly the same.


    "You''re... him?" Scaramouche stammered.


    "That''s right, it''s me," Lucas nodded with a calm smile. "I was the one who saved you."


    Scaramouche quicklyposed herself, mentally scolding herself for confusing her dream with reality. It was absurd to think that a figure from her dreams could show up here.


    "Why do I look like this?" Scaramouche demanded, frustration clear on her face. "What did you do to me?"


    Lucas had anticipated her reaction. After all, anyone who woke up to discover they''d been transformed would probably be just as shocked.


    He could tell that she had intended to ambush him¡ªher nature was something he''d already learned well through the simtor.


    Scaramouche trusted no one.


    Even if he was her rescuer, her instinct was to eliminate any perceived threat first.


    As for why her attack suddenly stopped midway, it was likely because of the mand" Raiden Mai had inputted into her puppet core: amand that prevented her from attacking him.


    "This might take a while to exin," Lucas said as he poured the freshly cooked bacon onto a te. "How about we discuss it over breakfast?"


    After seeing his face, a flood of questions filled Scaramouche''s mind. She hesitated before nodding. "No pepper... on the bacon."


    "Of course. Double butter, no pepper. Already prepared just how you like it," Lucas replied smoothly.


    It was exactly how Scaramouche liked her food.


    Though she didn''t actually need to eat, she''d long kept up the habit as part of her effort to seem more human. Whether it was due to the energy demands of battle or the fact that as a puppet she wouldn''t gain weight, she had a particr weakness for high-calorie foods.


    But how did he know my preferences?


    It must just be a coincidence, she told herself.


    "So, I was out on ate-night walkst night," Lucas began his prepared exnation as they sat at the table, "and happened upon you, unconscious and severely injured."


    "Taking a stroll at four in the morning?" Scaramouche raised an eyebrow, still suspicious, as she bit into a slice of bacon.


    The degree of crispness, the bnce of butter¡ªit was just like the meal prepared by the person in her dreams.


    "Everyone has their own habits," Lucas replied casually. "Anyway, I saw you lying there, badly hurt. The hospital wasn''t open that early, so I brought you back to treat your injuries myself."


    "And you uncovered my ''secret'' in the process?" Scaramouche''s eyes narrowed.


    "That''s right. Turns out you''re not quite human," Lucas replied with a smile, making no attempt to hide the truth. "Lucky for you, I happen to know a little alchemy, so I gave it a shot and patched you up."


    "You''re a reckless one," she scowled. "Do you realize that if you''d made even the slightest mistake, I might never have woken up?"


    "But you''re awake now, aren''t you?" Lucas shrugged. "If I hadn''t tried, you''d have died there anyway."


    "Fine, but let''s set that aside..." Scaramouche nced down at her chest, an edge of anger in her voice. "Would you care to exin why my body is... like this?"


    "Well, it''s like this," Lucas answered as if it were the most reasonable thing in the world. "Your core is the most crucial part, but itcked proper protection. So, I took the liberty of adding some armor."


    "Armor?" Scaramouche shot him a skeptical look. "This soft armor is supposed to protect me?"


    "It''s specifically designed to cushion impacts and absorb shocks," Lucas improvised. "If you''d had it before, maybe you wouldn''t have taken such severe damagest night."


    "And you don''t find my condition or my identity the least bit suspicious?" Scaramouche asked, her tone wary.


    "My grandfather is ny-two this year," Lucas replied offhandedly. "Still in perfect health."


    "What does that have to do with me?" she asked, baffled.


    "What do you have to do with me?" he countered. "Besides, my grandfather''s longevity is probably due to minding his own business."


    He had that same infuriating demeanor as the Doctor from her dreams!


    "Fine," Scaramouche muttered, grudgingly epting his nonchnce. Suddenly, she remembered something and stretched out her hand, looking away. "Give it... back."


    "Give back what?" Lucas tilted his head innocently. "I didn''t take anything from you."


    "You did!" Scaramouche''s face flushed as she insisted, "The... the thing you removed from me!"


    "Oh, that?" Lucas smirked as if recalling something trivial. "Why do you even want that thing?"


    "It''s something I made myself," she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. "It has sentimental value."


    "Well, it''s not exactly well-crafted," Lucas teased. "It''s already in the trash."


    "I... I''ve never seen the real thing!" Scaramouche''s tone grew indignant, feeling as though she''d been mocked. "If I had, I could have made it perfectly!"


    "Sure, sure," Lucas said with a softugh, his gaze warm.


    Time felt as if it had turned back to his days in the simtor, where Lucas, as the "Doctor," would often tease Scaramouche, and her flustered, exasperated reactions were always the same.


    "If you don''t believe me, show me yours!"


    Her irritation ring, Scaramouche lunged at Lucas, catching him off guard. In an instant, his face was buried against her newly-added "armor," leaving himpletely immobilized.


    For some reason, her actions felt oddly familiar. Before Lucas could react, his "reference" had already been... uncovered.


    For a moment, Scaramouche froze.


    Her gaze was drawn entirely to what she was seeing.


    Compared to her own handmade version, this one was clearly more... robust.


    Wait a second... why does it look so familiar?


    That''s it! The shape, even the scent¡ªit was just like the one from her dreams.


    "Stop!" Lucasmanded, his voice steady but firm.


    At hismand, Scaramouche''s body froze once more, r


    eleasing her hold on him and obediently stepping back.


    It was only then that Lucas remembered: Raiden Mai had indeed imnted amand in her core,pelling her to obey his orders.


    ---

 Chapter 132: Villain Simulator, Ch 131

    <h4>Chapter 132: Viin Simtor, Ch 131</h4>


    "Isn''t this a little... undignified?" Lucas sighed, exasperated. "You''re a girl now, you know!"


    "I don''t even have a real gender," Scaramouche muttered, a slight blush still lingering on her face. "As soon as I get back, I''m dismantling all of these... parts!"


    "No way!" Lucas interjected. "That''s an order¡ªyou''re not allowed to remove anything."


    For reasons she couldn''t exin, a powerful urge settled over Scaramouche, suppressing her impulse to tear off the new "armor." It was his mand," not just affecting her actions, butpelling her very thoughts.


    "What did you do to me?" she demanded, grinding her teeth. "Why am I following your orders?"


    "It''s just a little safety measure," Lucas replied, relieved that it worked. "You looked dangerous, so when I repaired you, I added amand to your core."


    "And whatmand was that?"


    "To obey my orders," Lucas admitted. "Rx¡ªit''s only for my own safety. I have no intention of threatening you."


    "That''s absurd," she muttered, her voice dripping with skepticism. "I don''t believe it."


    "Fine," Lucas grinned mischievously, "I order you to roll on the floor and meow like a cat."


    "There''s no way I''d¡ª <i>Meow~</i>"


    To her utter horror, Scaramouche obeyed themand, rolling on the floor and letting out a string of cute "meows." Her face turned beet red from embarrassment, yet she couldn''t stop.


    "Good girl," Lucas chuckled, scratching under her chin. "Want a little fish treat too?"


    Damn him...


    Strangely enough, she even found herself purring, unable to resist the pleasant sensation.


    "That''s enough," Lucas said finally. At hismand, Scaramouche stopped her humiliating actions. "Now do you believe me?"


    Scaramouche scowled, nodding reluctantly. "Fine, say what you really want from me."


    "Huh?" Lucas raised an eyebrow.


    "You put this control in ce to ckmail me, right?" she sneered. "Tell me what you want in exchange for lifting themand."


    Of course. Just like before, you still don''t trust anyone.


    "I already told you¡ªit''s just for my own protection," Lucas replied, smoothly continuing the lie. "Themand only works if you''re within a hundred meters of me. Beyond that, you''re free."


    "Really?" She still seemed skeptical.


    "Believe it or not," Lucas shrugged. "But, since you brought it up, I''ll make one request: don''t cause trouble in Mondstadt."


    He was careful not to mention anything about the Gnosis, lest his connection to Venti was exposed.


    "Fine," she agreed reluctantly. "I won''t."


    Afterst night''s fight, she realized the power gap between herself and an Archon. Continuing her mission here wouldn''t bring her any closer to sess.


    "Deal." Lucas smiled. "Oh, by the way, I''m Lucas. And you are...?"


    "I''m Scara¡ª" She paused and corrected herself, "The name''s Kabukimono."


    So, that''s the name she''s giving me.


    After all, if she wanted to hide her identity, she could have just made up any name.


    "Right," Lucas added, as if remembering something, "if you ever get damaged again, feel free toe to me for repairs."


    "There won''t be a next time." Scaramouche turned away coolly. "I won''t make the same mistake twice."


    Watching her walk away, Lucas felt a mix of emotions well up within him.


    Two women he had grown close to in the simtor were now, in reality, distancing themselves just as swiftly.


    But he knew there was little hope of anything further. Both Scaramouche and La Signora were Harbingers, and their paths would never intersect with his in this lifetime.


    ---


    <i>Goth Grand Hotel</i>


    <i>In the Doctor''s Room</i>


    "What? You''re telling me it didn''t work?" The Doctor stroked her chin, puzzled. "Impossible. Based on all the intelligence we''ve gathered, my method should be effective."


    "Twice." La Signora folded her arms, her voice ice-cold. "Twice, and not the slightest sign of progress. Your intel must be wed!"


    "Oh, twice?" The Doctor''s eyes gleamed with amusement. "And how would you know so precisely? Don''t tell me you personally... hehe."


    Of course, La Signora wasn''t about to divulge what had happenedst night. "It was... someone from the Maple Guild."


    "Then what''s got you so upset?" the Doctor raised an eyebrow. "You didn''t lose anything."


    "It wasted my time." She scowled. "And I even had to bribe the cavalry captain of the Knights of Favonius. You''re covering that expense."


    "No problem," she replied, unfazed. "This information is valuable, after all." Then she added, "But, La Signora, shouldn''t you be a little more focused on your actual mission?"


    "I know what I''m doing," she replied, frowning. "Acquiring the Gnosis is no simple task."


    "Then you''d best pick up the pace." The Doctor''s expression shifted to a knowing smile. "Because Scaramouche made his movest night."


    "What?"


    La Signora''s eyes widened. But just then, the door opened, and Scaramouche walked in.


    Both the Doctor and La Signora immediately noticed the change.


    Even the usuallyposed La Signora was momentarily taken aback. "You... what happened to you?"


    "Oh, nothing," Scaramouche replied nonchntly. "Just upgraded my core defenses a bit. What, jealous that I''ve outdone you?"


    "Jealous of you?" La Signora spat, clenching her jaw. "Besides, I''m still ahead¡ªsize isn''t everything, you know."


    "Tsk, tsk," the Doctor shook her head in mock disappointment. "A procedure this amusing... what a shame you didn''t let me handle it."


    In a way, the "surgery" could indeed be credited to "The Doctor"¡ªthough not the one currently present.


    "So, what''s the result?" La Signora got straight to the point. "Did you obtain the Gnosis?"


    "Mission failed," Scaramouche replied calmly, her usual pride reced with surprising frankness. "Furthermore, I''ve decided to withdraw from this mission."


    "Why give up?" La Signora asked coldly. "That''s not like you at all."


    "I don''t owe you an exnation, Eighth Harbinger," she sneered. "Besides, isn''t this exactly what you wanted? Without mypetition, your chances of sess just improved."


    "You¡ª!"


    La Signora clenched her fists, fuming, but held back. Though Harbinger ranks weren''t strictly based onbat prowess, she knew she would struggle to defeat Scaramouche in a direct fight.


    Although she couldn''t understand her sudden decision to drop out, her withdrawal certainly eased the pressure on herself.


    "Fine, whatever." Scaramouche waved dismissively. "I''m heading back to my room to rest."


    ---


    Once in her room, Scaramouche flopped onto the bed, only to feel a slight twinge from the "armor" pressing against her.


    "Ugh, all because of that idiot..." she muttered, rolling onto her back and staring up at the ceiling. But the face that appeared in her mind wasn''t just any idiot¡ªit was Lucas.


    Memories of the bizarre encounter flooded her thoughts, particrly the... embarrassing parison." The image of Lucas''s expression lingered stubbornly in her mind.


    Suddenly inspired, Scaramouche reached for an intricately carved mahogany chair in the room. With a swift snap, she broke off one of its cylindrical legs. Using her finger as a makeshift knife, she quickly whittled the chair leg down into a shape based on her vivid recollection.


    Exactly like the "Doctor" in her dreams.


    "If it were really you..." Scaramouche whispered, closing her eyes. "You could return me to that perfect dream."


    ---


    By midday, two maids approached Scaramouche''s door, each carrying a tray with his lunch.


    "Ah, we''re finally seeing Master Scaramouche again," the first maid whispered, a blush coloring her cheeks. "It''s the best part of my day, really."


    With his fair, refined looks, Scaramouche was undeniably appealing, especially to those with a taste for youthful features.


    "But he scares me sometimes," admitted the second maid, her tone nervous. "Rememberst time when he red at me for putting pepper on his steak?"


    As they neared the door, both maids paused, their faces growing red as they caught faint soundsing from within the room.


    "W-what''s that noise?" the second maid stammered, blushing.


    "It''s probably just... self-discovery," the first maid replied, slightly moreposed. "I have a younger brother who I once caught doing that. You''d think having an older sister would be enough, but there he was..."


    "Wait... something feels off about this." The second maid hesitated. "Maybe we should just leave. If he catches us¡ª"


    Before she could finish, the door swung open, and Scaramouche stood before them, looking rather disconcerted.


    "Did you two... hear anything just now?" she asked, her expression unreadable.


    The two maids paled, shaking their heads frantically.


    "Not a word of this to anyone, understand?" Scaramouche''s voice was icy, but just as she finished speaking, a loud <i>thunk</i> echoed in the hallway.


    The improvised "artwork" she''d crafted from the chair leg had slipped from her grasp and rolled right to the maids'' feet.


    "Damn it... humiliated like this..." she seethed internally, her thoughts darkening. "Just wait, Lucas. I''m not letting you off the hook that easily."


    ---


    "Achoo!"


    Lucas, oblivious to Scaramouche''s vengeful thoughts, suddenly sneezed.


    He had spent a few uneventful days in Mondstadt by now. Although Zhang Luo had mentioned he could take his time, he felt it might be about time to head back to Liyue, where he felt most at home.


    After finishing some takeout from Good Hunter, Lucasy on his bed, lost in thought. With everything that had happened recently, the sudden calm felt almost surreal.


    And, as always...


    [Ta-da-da-dah! Since you''re free, why not start a simtor round?]


    Of course...


    Even when Lucas wanted a break, Little Xi wasn''t about to let him have one.


    "I suppose it couldn''t hurt..." Lucas mused. "But can we switch up the location? Last few simtors were either in Liyue or Mondstadt."


    [Sure thing! Such a small request is no problem for me. How about a Khaenri''ah start?]


    "Absolutely not!" Lucas shook his head, chuckling. "If it''s five hundred years ago, I''d get wiped out right at the start."


    [Just kidding. This time, the simtor will randomly pick a different region among the nations.]


    "All right, let''s begin."


    The recent battle between Scaramouche and Venti had given him a lot to think about. While he could handle ordinary foes, he was still a step behind when it came to facing powerful enemies like the Harbingers or even Archons.


    His priority was clear: he needed to get stronger.


    [Command received. Starting the Life Simtor now.]


    [Please choose three talents from the following options. One random talent will be retained permanently after the simtion.]


    [Depression (White): You are easily saddened and prone to depression.]


    [Ouw (Blue): You start with intermediate proficiency in all firearms and advanced proficiency with shotguns.]


    [Great Onmyoji (Gold): You possess an extraordinary talent in onmy¨­d¨­, and your skills in onmy¨­d¨­ will increase with age.]


    [Childhood Friend (Green): You have a childhood friend who holds strong feelings for you.]


    [Demon Affinity (Blue): Most demonfolk naturally harbor a liking for you.]


    ---


    Author''s note: Simtion in Inazuma! Also one of my fav one.


    Sorry forte chap, I forgor


    Anyways get to 1600 p.s for extra chap!

 Chapter 133: Villain Simulator, Ch 132

    <h4>Chapter 133: Viin Simtor, Ch 132</h4>


    <strong>[Angler (Green): You love fishing and never return empty-handed.]</strong>


    <strong>[Uncle from Another World (Green): You have an uncle from another world, but he''s incredibly reclusive.]</strong>


    <strong>[Te''s Curse (White): You''re unable to control any "mount" and have a high likelihood of idents when using transportation.]</strong>


    <strong>[de Smith (Green): You excel at forging weapons.]</strong>


    <strong>[Cat Allergy (White): You''re allergic to cats and will sneeze uncontrobly around them.]</strong>


    Finally, a golden talent! No hesitation needed¡ªit was an obvious choice.


    Among the blue talents, <i>Demon Affinity</i> seemed useful, especially if he were born in a ce like Inazuma, where it might open doors.


    As for thest talent, Lucas''s eyes settled on <i>Childhood Friend</i>. Although it didn''t improvebat skills, having a natural childhood sweetheart seemed nice. At least he''d have some hope for romance in this life.


    <strong>[Confirmed Talents: Great Onmyoji, Demon Affinity, Childhood Friend]</strong>


    <strong>[Talent Selection Complete. Generating Character Temte...]</strong>


    <strong>[Simtion Starting...]</strong>


    <strong>[Age 0: You are born in a modest vige in Inazuma. Your parents are humble farmers, and your father names you Ashan, hoping you''ll grow up to be kind to others.]</strong>


    Inazuma, huh...


    This was the first simtion set in Inazuma. He wondered what characters he might encounter here. Even though Lucas understood that these "simtions" were real events in parallel worlds, he still instinctively called it a "simtor."


    <strong>[Age 1: Your father is close friends with the man next door, and they often fish and drink together.]</strong>


    <strong>[Age 2: The neighbor''s wife is pregnant, and your mother often helps care for her.]</strong>


    <strong>[Age 3: The neighbor''s wife gives birth to a baby girl. The father, in a drunken state, jokingly deres you''ll marry her one day. Unimpressed, you look at the wrinkled little face in the cradle and dere, "I don''t want to marry a little monkey!" Enraged, your father smacks you with his shoe.]</strong>


    <strong>[Age 4: The girl next door is named Kyoko, an unremarkable name. As she grows cuter each day, you often visit her house. Her mother teases, "Here to see your little wife again?"]</strong>


    Kyoko?


    That name didn''t ring any bells. Could it be that this storyline wouldn''t include familiar characters?


    <strong>[Age 5: Kyoko starts talkingte, and her first word isn''t "Papa" or "Mama," but "Big Brother," directed at you. You''re thrilled, but her father sulks until she finally calls him "Papa."]</strong>


    <strong>[Around this time, you begin to see things others can''t¡ªwalking umbres, floating heads, weasels with forked tails... When you tell your father, he seems rmed.]</strong>


    <strong>[Your father brings a shrine maiden from the nearby temple to perform a ritual. Afterward, you no longer see these strange things.]</strong>


    <strong>[Age 6: Kyoko bes your little shadow. Other children tease you, but she remains unfazed, proudly dering she''ll be a perfect wife for Ashan someday.]</strong>


    <strong>[Age 7: Today is the annual summer festival, but Kyoko has fallen slightly ill and can''t attend. You go with your parents, but in the crowd, you let go of your father''s sleeve to look at water balloons. When youe back to your senses, they''re nowhere to be found.]</strong>


    <strong>[Faced with this situation, you decide to...]</strong>


    [Search for them]


    [Wait where you are]


    "Wait here."


    Any sensible child knows that in such situations, it''s best to stay put and wait for your family toe find you.


    <strong>[Entering Immersive Mode]</strong>


    <strong>[Objective: Enjoy the Festival]</strong>


    Enjoy the festival? What kind of task was that?


    Lucas suddenly found himself as Ashan, a seven-year-old, standing amidst the crowd. He was nearly suffocated by the bustling people when a gentle hand took hold of his wrist, lifting him effortlessly from the crowd.


    His rescuer was not his parents but a silver-haired woman dressed as a shrine maiden. She was strikingly beautiful, with fox-like golden eyes that gleamed mischievously.


    Even Lucas, who''d seen his fair share of beauties, couldn''t help but be captivated. For someone like her to appear at a modest vige festival seemed almost surreal. Strangely, the passersby paid her no attention, as if she were invisible.


    "Leaving such a cute kid all alone... how irresponsible," she said with a crescent-eyed smile. "How about we go watch the fireworks? Try some games or goldfish scooping?"


    "I... I don''t know you." Ashan quickly snapped out of his daze, shaking his head. "What if you''re a bad person?"


    "Oh, so cautious!" She chuckled. "But you know, if you wander off alone, a monster mighte and gobble you up."


    "Liar!" Ashan frowned. "There''s no such thing as monsters... huh?"


    Suddenly, he froze, wide-eyed. The ordinary festival-goers had vanished, reced by strange, otherworldly creatures¡ªsimr to the ones he''d seen at age five.


    "Little one, today is the Bon Festival," she exined softly. "Certain people with unusual sensitivity can identally step into realms inhabited by spirits and yokai. Without any yokai aura, you could look like a tasty snack to some of them."


    "W-what should I do?" he stammered, visibly shaken.


    "Want me to tell you?" She leaned close and, while he wasn''t paying attention, nted a light kiss on his cheek.


    <strong>[Talent <i>Demon Affinity</i> activated. You have gained this yokai''s favor.]</strong>


    So, she was a yokai too?


    It made sense; otherwise, why would she be here?


    "There we go. You''re now marked with my scent," she said, taking his hand with a warm smile. "Now you''re under my protection. Other yokai won''t dare mess with you."


    <strong>"Are you... a very powerful yokai?"</strong> Ashan asked cautiously.


    "Of course I am!" The silver-haired woman proudly ced her hands on her hips. "Ask around¡ªwho hasn''t heard the name ''Saiguu''?"


    As she made this bold gesture, a pair of fluffy, snow-white fox ears popped out from her hair.


    Saiguu... the Kitsune Saiguu?


    So she was <i>that</i> Kitsune Saiguu!


    In the game''s story, she was the guardian of Narukami Ind, a fox spirit of the Hakushin n and one of the Raiden Shogun''s trusted allies.


    But she was said to have vanished five hundred years ago in the great cmity that engulfed Inazuma.


    That meant... this simtion was set at least five centuries before the present!


    Noticing Ashan''s astonishment, Saiguu raised an eyebrow. "What? Don''t you believe me?"


    "I... I believe you..." Ashan nodded. "Because... because you''re really beautiful."


    Lucas knew little about Kitsune Saiguu''s exact background, but he was certain of one thing¡ªshe wasn''t someone to fear.


    "The prettier thedy, the better she is at lying," Saiguu teased with a yful smile. "If you ever find out I''ve tricked you, don''te crying."


    "If it''s you who tricks me..." Ashan murmured, "I wouldn''t mind."


    For a moment, Saiguu seemed surprised, then she chuckled. "Well, would you like to y a game with me?"


    "Yes!" Ashan agreed without hesitation. "What game?"


    "Every year at this summer festival, I''lle here," Saiguu said, smiling. "If you can find me each time, then in ten years, I''ll grant you one wish."


    For a human, ten years might feel like an eternity, but for a fox spirit with Hakushin blood, it was barely a moment.


    "Deal." Ashan held out his pinky. "Let''s make a pinky promise."


    "Pinky promise!" Saiguu hooked her little finger with his, smiling with half-moon eyes. "Anyone who breaks the promise has to eat a thousand fox hairs!"


    <strong>Bang!</strong>


    With a loud explosion, brilliant fireworks soared into the sky like shooting stars, illuminating the sleeping night.


    "Come on, let''s go y!" Saiguuughed, taking Ashan''s hand. "When we''re done, I''ll make sure you get home."


    That summer night, the young boy felt his heart beat with a new rhythm for the first time.


    The fox''s gentle smile and the dazzling fireworks blended together, bing a memory he would never forget.


    As they parted, Saiguu conjured a delicate water balloon and gifted it to Ashan, promising to meet him again next summer.


    <strong>[Exiting Immersive Mode]</strong>


    <strong>[Objective Complete: Enjoy the Festival]</strong>


    <strong>[Reward Acquired: Summer Festival Water Pearl]</strong>


    <strong>[Item Type: Set]</strong>


    <strong>[Effect (1/4): Increases all defensive skill effects by 18%]</strong>


    <strong>[The next morning, you wake up to find yourself lying in your own bed. Your father tells you that you must have fallen asleep from all the excitement at the festivalst night.]</strong>


    <strong>[At first, you think everything that happened must have been a dream. But the delicate water balloon in your hands proves that it was real.]</strong>


    <strong>[From that day forward, a certain woman takes root in your heart. At your young age, this feeling isn''t love¡ªit''s more a mix of admiration and fascination.]</strong>


    <strong>[Since meeting Kitsune Saiguu, your ability to see yokai has reawakened. But this time, you keep it a secret from everyone.]</strong>


    <strong>[You fear that if your father brings a shrine maiden to perform another ritual, you''ll lose your sight to see yokai... and never see Saiguu again.]</strong>


    <strong>[Age 8: Despite Saiguu''s presence in your life, nothing changes in your day-to-day routine. You y with friends during the day and count stars on the rooftop with Kyoko at night.]</strong>


    <strong>[But sometimes, you find yourself in a secluded corner, gazing at the water balloon and counting down the days to the next festival.]</strong>


    Finally, the summer festival returned, and once again, Kyoko was feeling slightly unwell, just likest year.


    You thought it was a coincidence and didn''t give it much thought. Your mind was already fully focused on finding Kitsune Saiguu.


    But this game turned out to be no easy feat. In the crowded festival, finding a single person was hard enough¡ªlet alone a mischievous fox spirit.


    You scoured the festival grounds three or four times. For an eight-year-old, this left you exhausted. Just as you were beginning to suspect Saiguu had tricked you, arge, fluffy white tail appeared in the crowd, swaying rhythmically.


    It felt like a game hint appearing when you''re unsure how to proceed...


    Without hesitation, you grabbed the tail, and its owner turned out to be none other than Fox Saiguu!


    <strong>["Oh, you got me." Fox Saiguu pinched your cheeks with a smile. "Now, what punishment should I give you?"]</strong>


    <strong>["Why am I being punished? I''m the one who caught you!" You pouted, puffing your cheeks in indignation.]</strong>


    <strong>["Well then..." Saiguu lifted you in her arms, winking. "Your punishment is to spend the evening ying with me!"]</strong>


    Once again, you spent a joyful festival night with Fox Saiguu.


    <strong>[Age 9: For this year''s festival, Kitsune Saiguu disguised herself as a lost old woman. You had to navigate the crowd while searching for her "family," which, of course, didn''t exist.]</strong>


    <strong>[Age 10: By now, you''vepletely adapted to the yokai festival, and oddly enough, many yokai seem to like you, inviting you to y with them.]</strong>


    <strong>[A group of fox spiritdies surround you, yfully asking which of them you like best.]</strong>


    <strong>[What you didn''t realize was that Kitsune Saiguu was standing right behind you. As they waited for you to blush or stammer, you confidently dered, "My favorite is Saiguu!"]</strong>


    <strong>["That''s more like it!" Saiguu hugged you from behind with augh. "If you''d picked someone else, I''d never let you off, you know."]</strong>


    <strong>[What Saiguu didn''t know was that your yokai-sensing ability had been steadily growing, and you''d already sensed her presence.]</strong>


    <strong>[Of course, even if she hadn''t been there, your answer would have been the same.]</strong>


    <strong>[Age 11: You notice your sensitivity to yokai has grown stronger. Elders in the vige often say that only those with potent spiritual energy can see yokai, and that yokai especially enjoy eating the flesh of the spiritually strong.]</strong>


    <strong>[However, none of the yokai you encounter show any hostility. Sometimes, you even see friends you met at the festival and y games with them.]</strong>


    <strong>[Your humanity is no longer a secret, but thanks to Kitsune Saiguu''s protection, no yokai dares harm you.]</strong>


    ---


    Author''s Note: Oof, why are you all so depressed? Here, take another Chapter and be happy :)


    (I''m depressed too)


    Goal remains the same: 1600 p.s. for another Chapter!

 Chapter 134: Villain Simulator, Ch 133

    <h4>Chapter 134: Viin Simtor, Ch 133</h4>


    [Unfortunately, despite your best efforts, you never encounter Kitsune Saiguu outside the festival. Meeting her just once a year brings joy, but for a child, the long wait is often agonizing.]


    [Fortunately, you still have other friends¡ªand Kyoko. Even as a child, you understand that Kitsune Saiguu is an unreachable dream, while the girl by your side is someone you can pour your true feelings into.]


    [Before this year''s festival, you visit Kyoko. Even though she feels unwell every year on this day, you always bring a different gift to cheer her up.]


    [This time, Kitsune Saiguu surprises you by bringing someone else¡ªa beautiful girl around your age named Hibiki.]


    [Unlike Kitsune Saiguu, Hibiki is sharp-tongued and verypetitive, and in every game, you end up losing to her.]


    [But you don''t mind; your attention remains fixed on Kitsune Saiguu, and you even begin contemting what wish you''ll ask her to grant in six years.]


    [Age 12: At this year''s festival, Kitsune Saiguu arrives with Hibiki again. The girl seems proud, showing off some shrine maiden spells she learned from Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [For some reason, the so-called "spells" seem oddly simple to you. Without even thinking, you easily grasp the mysteries behind them.]


    [In Hibiki''s astonished gaze, you sessfully cast a spell she spent a whole month learning. Competitive as ever, Hibiki takes this hard, while Kitsune Saiguu, instead of getting angry at your "eavesdropping," praises your talent.]


    [She promises to teach you a new spell every festival, with the understanding that these spells must remain hidden from others.]


    [This is the one time you deceive Kitsune Saiguu. Once home, you perform the spell to cheer up Kyoko, who couldn''t attend the summer festival. Watching herugh, you find the shape of the wish you''ll ask of Kitsune Saiguu someday.]


    [Age 13: This year''s yokai festival is disrupted by a group of mischievous tanuki, led by a portly one named Ioroi, who challenges Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [The chubby tanuki seems clumsy, and Kitsune Saiguu leaves it to you to take him on. You beat him handily using the spells she taught you.]


    [Even in defeat, Ioroi remains defiant, prompting Kitsune Saiguu to make a wager: she bets he can''t steal the Raiden Shogun''s sacred Narukami Grass.]


    [Naru Weed is a rare nt that grows only near the Raiden Shogun''s residence, symbolizing her status. You know it''s impossible to steal.]


    [Yet, Ioroi surprisingly epts the bet.]


    [You don''t hear the oue of this wager, but a few monthster, on a thunderous afternoon before a storm, you find a strange violet flower trembling faintly with each p of thunder.]


    ---


    [Age 14: Early in the year, your mother passes away from a severe illness. You stay by her bedside throughout, and in a daze, you see faint shadows drifting around her. You try to drive them away, but they are unaffected.]


    [Thankfully, Kyoko remains by your side. She''s no longer just your betrothed; she''s your closest family.]


    [This year''s festival holds noughter for you. Kitsune Saiguu sits quietly beside you, listening as you express your sorrow and memories.]


    [You cry silently in her embrace, asking if you can use your wish early to bring your mother back. Kitsune Saiguu tells you that reviving the dead is beyond even her powers.]


    [You wonder if, to Kitsune Saiguu, your life is just as fleeting as your mother''s was to you. When you die, will she shed tears for you?]


    ---


    [Age 15: This year, Kitsune Saiguu doesn''t bring Hibiki. Instead, she introduces you to a woman you''ve never seen before.]


    [The woman has purple hair tied in braids and a beauty that rivals Kitsune Saiguu''s. Oddly, you don''t sense any yokai aura from her.]


    [Despite her beauty, her expression is cold, forming a stark contrast to Kitsune Saiguu''s perpetual smile.]


    [Kitsune Saiguu introduces her as a friend, naming her Shogun, and exins that she recently lost a loved one. She asks you to help Shogun''s smile during the festival.]


    [Understanding her grief, you immediately agree. That night, the three of you y many games together¡ªgoldfish scooping, darts, and finally, in a round of Old Maid, you make Shogunugh with the tense look on your face.]


    [Shogun promises that when youe of age, Kitsune Saiguu can introduce you to her in Inazuma City, where she''ll have a reward for you. Thinking she''s joking, you agree.]


    ---


    [Age 16: Your mother''s death forces you to take on more work for your father. Fortunately, you''re already a sturdy young man, and even girls from nearby viges show interest in you. But for you, the choice of future wife was made long ago.]


    [Kyoko, who''s grown more beautiful each year. Although she doesn''tpare to the divine Kitsune Saiguu, she''s leagues better than haughty Hibiki.]


    [Kyoko''s father has long regarded you as his future son-inw. He frequently tells your father that you should marry soon, and your fatherments that if your mother had only lived a bit longer, she could have seen you wed.]


    [In your vige, marrying at your age is not considered early; after all, marriage cane first, and having children can wait untilter.]


    [At the festival, you tell Kitsune Saiguu about your uing marriage. She seems surprised at first but quickly congrattes you.]


    [It''s a pity Kyoko doesn''t share your spiritual powers; otherwise, you''d love to bring her along to meet your quirky yokai friends.]


    [Kitsune Saiguu offers you a "wedding gift," separate from your eventual wish¡ªjust a gift between friends.]


    [She blindfolds you, takes your hand, and guides you somewhere mysterious. You seem to walk for ages, yet feel as though you''ve hardly moved at all.]


    [When the blindfoldes off, you''re standing in a misty hot spring, the water a delicate jade green.]


    [Kitsune Saiguu is beside you, soaking in the hot spring as well. Your cheeks flush¡ªshe seems to have forgotten that you''re no longer the innocent seven-year-old who once clung to her clothes.]


    [Entering Immersive Mode.]


    As expected, the system had another free "gift" in store.


    Through the rising mist, you can barely make out her figure, and the blurred view makes her even more enchanting.


    She looks just as she did when you first met her nine years ago; time seems to have overlooked her, leaving no trace on her.


    Kitsune Saiguu, noticing nothing amiss, casually remarks, "This is the Hakushin Spring. Only those with Hakushin fox blood can truly bathe here. The waters extend life and strengthen the body."


    [Talent Acquired: Hakushin''s Blessing]


    [Effect: Increased lifespan; allows the use of some skills exclusive to the Hakushin n.]


    It truly is a remarkable gift. But even without the "extra benefits," sharing this moment with Kitsune Saiguu would be gift enough.


    And yet, even with her so close, unguarded, no improper thoughts cross your mind. Not only because you''re engaged, but because in your heart, Kitsune Saiguu is sacred, untouchable.


    And, of course, you wouldn''t dare. Kitsune Saiguu is a revered figure, even respected by Yae Miko herself. A single inappropriate thought, and you''d likely meet a terrible fate.


    That aside, the warm springwater is remarkably soothing, seeming to sink into your skin and wash away every trace of dust and fatigue.


    "Oh, by the way," Kitsune Saiguu says with a sly smile, "they say the Hakushin Spring is formed from the Hakushin Fox King''s saliva."


    "W-what?" You startle, heart racing.


    Was this... a bath in spit?


    "Just kidding!" Kitsune Saiguu chuckles, winking. "You''re still so easy to tease. Jumping at every little thing, just like when you were a kid."


    "I... I''m not a kid anymore." You protest, indignant. "I''m getting married next year."


    "Oh, but to me, you''ll always be a child," Kitsune Saiguuughs, covering her mouth. "I remember when you got separated from your parents and cried for your mama."


    This reminder of your childhood makes you blush with embarrassment, unsure how to respond.


    Kitsune Saiguu goes on, tapping your nose lightly, "Do you even know whates after marriage, little one? If not, I could teach you..."


    "Of... of course, I know!"


    You instinctively grab her wrist and gently pull¡ªshe stumbles forward, unprepared, and falls into your arms.


    In this moment, Kitsune Saiguu realizes you''re no longer the little boy who once clung to her skirt.


    She had been teasing you, as she loved to do over the years. After all, her reputation as Inazuma''s "Heartbreaker" was well-deserved, and her skillful flirting was just second nature.


    But she hadn''t noticed that the once-timid little puppy had quietly grown into a headstrong young wolf.


    For a brief moment, an awkward silence falls.


    In your arms, the fox spirit remains still, and her soft breaths, like the breeze of early summer, send a slight tingle down your neck.


    "Mm!"


    Suddenly, a wave of heat rushes through you, and everything goes dark as your body starts to sink.


    "Ashan!" Kitsune Saiguu exims, rmed. "Are you all right?"


    "So... hot... feels like my chest is burning..." you murmur.


    Realizing the problem, Kitsune Saiguu quickly carries you out of the water andys you on the ground.


    The Hakushin Spring indeed provides powerful benefits but is intended for fox yokai. While humans may gain some of these advantages, they must remain calm in the spring, lest their energies be disrupted and set their spirits aze.


    You clutch Kitsune Saiguu''s hand, worry clear on your face, "S-Saiguu... will I die?"


    "No, you won''t," Kitsune Saiguu reassures you, a solution already in mind. "Close your eyes, and I''ll use a spell to cool the fire within you."


    Though you''re unsure why, you obediently close your eyes.


    Immediately, Kitsune Saiguu begins chanting a spell you recognize as the Ice Congealment Incantation, a cooling charm.


    Soon, a refreshing coolness seeps into your body, quelling the heat within.


    With ten drops of blood drawn out, your breathing finally steadies.


    "You can open your eyes now," Kitsune Saiguu says softly.


    When you open them, you''re astonished to see nine tails unfurled behind her, and red markings like whiskers painted across her cheeks.


    Normally, she doesn''t bother to hide her fox ears and tail, but never has she shown her "true form" like this.


    She once exined that yokai reveal their true forms only when ovee by strong emotions or when their powers are out of control. But why did such a minor spell bring out her full form?


    "Sister Saiguu..." Lucas murmured, "Why have you transformed like this?"


    Kitsune Saiguu looked herself over, finally realizing the change and hurriedly tried to tuck her tails away. "N-no reason! Perhaps I just stayed in the spring too long?"


    In truth, Lucas had sensed something strange during the ritual, even though his mind had been foggy. But since Kitsune Saiguu didn''t mention it, he felt it best not to pry.


    Given the unexpected circumstances, this didn''t feel like any kind of betrayal toward Kyoko.


    "I''m sorry..." Kitsune Saiguu''s ears drooped slightly as she apologized, her gaze full of remorse. "It was my fault foring up with such a whimsical idea."


    "It''s alright, Sister Saiguu," Lucas reassured her with a smile. "You meant well. And besides, I feel lighter and more refreshed than ever. The Hakushin Spring really has incredible effects."


    "Oh, by the way, next year... it''ll be ourst year together." Kitsune Saiguu asked suddenly, "Have you decided on your wish?"


    Lucas shook his head. "I... haven''t quite figured it out yet."


    Strangely, hearing this seemed to relieve Kitsune Saiguu. "Then take your time. Ah, and this," she said, offering him a flower-shaped essory, "is a gift for your fianc¨¦e."


    "It''s something I made. It''ll never wither, no matter how much time passes. Let''s call it... the Summer Festival Blossom."


    The delicate flower had a faint fragrance, appearing vivid and lifelike. Since it wasn''t a living thing, it couldn''t "die."


    Boom!


    Just then, a distant firework burst in the sky.


    "Look at that, isn''t it beautiful?"


    Kitsune Saiguu always admired fireworks, no matter how many times she saw them. To her, an ageless being like the eternal Summer Festival Blossom, humans must appear as fleeting as fireworks.


    [You have obtained: Summer Festival Blossom]


    [Item Type: Set]


    [Effect (2/4): Enhances all defensive skills by 35%]


    [Exiting immersive mode]


    [Entering text mode]


    ---


    [Age 17: For Kyoko''s fourteenth birthday, you gift her the Summer Festival Blossom. She cherishes it so much that she even clutches it while sleeping.]


    [Your wedding is set to take ce after the summer festival, at your suggestion. You realize that your feelings for Kitsune Saiguu are bing increasinglyplicated; perhaps it''s time to say goodbye.]


    [Summer arrives in the blink of an eye. In past years, you always looked forward to the festival, but this time, you feel a slight dread.]


    [To your surprise, Kyoko''s health holds up this year, and she wishes to attend the festival with you¡ªa dream she''s held for years.]


    [You don''t have the heart to refuse her, especially since she can''t see yokai. You''ve resolved that this will be your final farewell to Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [In the festival crowd, you spot Kitsune Saiguu, who waves at you with a familiar smile. But when she sees the girl standing beside you, her expression shifts slightly.]


    [You need a moment alone with her, so you pretend to twist your ankle and ask Kyoko to fetch some medicine. Kyoko, innocent as ever, hurries off without question. Meanwhile, Kitsune Saiguu has already walked up to you.]


    [Entering immersive mode]


    ---


    "She''s your fianc¨¦e?" Kitsune Saiguu asked, her brow slightly furrowed. "She''s a lovely girl."


    "She''s nothingpared to you, Sister Saiguu," Lucas answered honestly.


    "That''s not a nice thing to say," Kitsune Saiguu replied with a faint smile, shaking her head. "One''s wife should always be the most beautiful in their eyes."


    "It''s not about beauty; it''s about someone who''ll stay by my side for a lifetime." Lucas''s words had a hint of bitterness. "Sister Saiguu, there''s something I''ve wanted to tell you for a long time."


    "Then say it." Kitsune Saiguu nodded. "We''ve known each other for ten years; what can''t you tell me?"


    ---


    Author''s Note: Next extra chap at 2000 p.s

 Chapter 135: Villain Simulator, Ch 134

    <h4>Chapter 135: Viin Simtor, Ch 134</h4>


    Lucas took a deep breath and finally spoke, "I love you! I''ve loved you since we first met ten years ago! I love your smile, your scent, your every joke, and every moment I''ve spent with you..."


    "But I know it''s impossible for us to be together. I am just a fleeting human, while you are an eternal yokai. So... I''ve decided to let go."


    Wiping the tears from his eyes, he forced a smile. "Today will be thest time we meet. My wish is simple: to live in peace and grow old together with my wife."


    As a boy, he was allowed to hold onto his dreams and secret affections.


    But as a man, he had to shoulder responsibility.


    Lucas''s words left Kitsune Saiguu speechless. After a long silence, she finally managed to speak, her voice strained, "Ashan... could you perhaps... choose another wish?"


    "Why?" Lucas suddenly felt a sense of foreboding. "Are you saying we won''t be able to stay together? No, I love her, and she loves me too."


    "No, please listen..." Kitsune Saiguu''s expression dimmed. "I''m afraid your fianc¨¦e might not survive the summer."


    "What?" Lucas gasped. "But her health has improved! She even came with me to the festival!"


    "That''s just a brief recovery," Kitsune Saiguu sighed. "Every year, she falls ill during the Bon Festival because she has a rare condition known as the Yin-Imbnce Body. On this day, when Yin energy is at its peak, it umtes within her. When I saw her just now, her lifespan was nearly exhausted..."


    Just then, there was a loud gasp behind Lucas. He turned to see Kyoko, who had returned with the medicine, copsing to the ground, eyes closed and blood trickling from her mouth.


    ---


    Half an hourter.


    When the doctor stepped out of the room, Lucas and Kyoko''s family immediately rushed over to inquire about her condition.


    "I''m sorry," the doctor shook his head. "I''ve never seen such a dire illness... you should prepare for the worst."


    Kyoko''s mother broke into sobs, while her father nearly stumbled, barely keeping his footing.


    A thought struck Lucas, and he hurried to the back of the house, where Kitsune Saiguu waited. "Please... my wish is for Kyoko to live!"


    Lucas''s plea brought Kitsune Saiguu to silence.


    "You can do it, can''t you?" Lucas''s voice quivered with desperation. "I know you can''t bring someone back from the dead, but if she''s still alive, surely there''s a way."


    Kitsune Saiguu gazed deeply into his eyes. After a long pause, she nodded. "I can save her. But the price is that you and I will never meet again in this lifetime. Even knowing this, do you still wish it?"


    Lucas hesitated, but the sounds of Kyoko''s parents'' weeping urged him to make up his mind. "I... I''m willing."


    After all, he had already resolved to live out his life as a human and sever ties with the yokai world and Kitsune Saiguu.


    Kitsune Saiguu smiled faintly, handing him a silver pill. "I suppose this is fate... since it''s your wish. Have her swallow this, and she will awaken in three days."


    "Thank... thank you." Lucas epted the pill carefully, but when he looked up, Kitsune Saiguu had vanished without a trace.


    Was this really... goodbye?


    He had no time to dwell on it and quickly returned to tell Kyoko''s parents that he had previously obtained a remedy from the Grand Narukami Shrine. With no other options, they agreed, allowing him to give Kyoko the silver pill.


    To everyone''s astonishment, a miracle urred.


    Kyoko''s pale face gradually turned rosy, and soon enough, her breathing became steady.


    ---


    [Exiting immersive mode]


    [Entering text mode]


    ---


    [Three dayster, Kyoko miraculously awakes, even healthier than before. However, her memory seems fragmented from the fever, leaving her unable to recall even her family clearly. Yet she still remembers you, calling out your name.]


    [Though her memories aren''t fully intact, her family and you are overjoyed. To celebrate, your families decide to hold the wedding right away. Kyoko, who still harbors feelings for you, agrees without hesitation.]


    [It''s a simple yet unique wedding. Half the attendees are vigers, while the other half are the yokai friends you''ve made over the years. Yet, among them, Kitsune Saiguu''s absence weighs on you. Despite your decision to never meet again, a subtle sense of loss lingers in your heart.]


    [As the ceremony ends, a young shrine maiden arrives with a wedding gift. It''s Hibiki, once apanion to Kitsune Saiguu. Casually, you ask if she knows where Kitsune Saiguu is.]


    [She nces briefly at your bride, her expression nk. "Lady Saiguu says she doesn''t wish to see you again. She hopes you''ll live well with your wife and forget about her."]


    [The wedding gift Hibiki presents is a delicate fox mask¡ªthe very one Kitsune Saiguu used to wear during the festival. It still carries a hint of her familiar scent.]


    [Item Acquired: Summer Festival Mask (Set)]


    [Effect (3/4): Enhances all defensive skills by 35%]


    [Though the vige wedding is simple, the revelry is heartfelt, and the celebrationsstte into the night. You drink heavily and, intoxicated, are guided to the bridal chamber by Kyoko''s father. Patiently, Kyoko tends to you as you drift in and out of consciousness, noting how her face bears a resemnce to Kitsune Saiguu. Of course, you refrain from speaking the name of the fox spirit; it would be too cruel to Kyoko.]


    ---


    [Age 18: Over the past year, Kyoko''s health has greatly improved. Although her memories of her parents remain faint, she still treats them with utmost respect.]


    [Her personality has also changed. Once gentle and reserved, she has grown lively and outgoing since her recovery, and you find you don''t mind this new side of her.]


    [That summer, you and Kyoko attend the festival again. You see many of your yokai friends, yet there is still no sign of Kitsune Saiguu. It seems strange, as she adored the festival and fireworks, and wouldn''t miss it even to avoid you.]


    [But you''re learning to move on, for now, you have someone tangible to cherish.]


    [It''s your first time spending the entire festival with Kyoko. You y many games together, and though she''s never yed them before, she''s surprisingly adept¡ªoften beating you. Her charm draws many admiring looks from those around.]


    ---


    [Age 19: Kyoko has turned sixteen. Though you''ve been married for two years, you''ve refrained from consummating the marriage, feeling she was still too young. But Kyoko has grown increasingly restless, frequently teasing you with small gestures when you sleep.]


    [The challenge of her teasing tests your resolve, and though you strive to hold firm, eventually, you let her have her way, choosing to turn a blind eye to her antics.]


    ---


    [Age 20: Kyoko''s yful gestures be bolder, so you immerse yourself in more work to avoid any "idents." You can''t help but wonder if her personality shift has something to do with the pill Kitsune Saiguu gave her.]


    ---


    [Age 21: For Kyoko''s eighteenth birthday, youmission a custom-made outfit from the vige tailor, which she adores, pinning the Summer Festival Blossom proudly at the center.]


    [Eighteen years old now, Kyoko is a vision of youthful beauty, though not on par with Kitsune Saiguu or Shogun, yet as radiant as a newly blossomed lotus. That night, her yful teasing grows bolder, and this time, you don''t hold back.]


    [The little fox finally pays the price for her yful tricks over the past three years, and she soon understands why you had prepared by reinforcing the bed and purchasing a pair of deer antlers soaked in wine.]


    [You''re not like the average viger who charges blindly forward. Even in your ferocity, there remains a touch of gentleness.]


    [Soft moonlight spills through the window, illuminating the tears on Kyoko''s cheeks. For some reason, you find traces of Kitsune Saiguu in her features. Ironically, this fleeting illusion doesn''t slow you down; it only stirs a deeper, unnameable impulse within you.]


    [The next morning, you wake upte, finding faint scratch marks on your skin that resemble fox ws, along with a surprisingly deep bite mark on your shoulder. Are Kyoko''s canines really that sharp? You can''t help but be a bit puzzled.]


    [But does it really matter? After your first night together, your bond with Kyoko feels even deeper. Strangely, she already seems more mature than she did the day before, though she still blushes when she notices the dark red stain on the sheets.]


    [Perhaps due to your immersion in the Hakushin Spring, your body is far stronger than that of a typical man. Despitest night''s intensity, you''re filled with energy in the morning.]


    [Kyoko doesn''t yet grasp the implications, assuming the fervor was simply the result of your long-held restraint. She remains unaware until, even before she''s had a chance to wash up, you pull her back into bed.]


    ---


    [Age 22: Despite her frailty in the past, Kyoko learned to spin and weave to help support her family. With more free time now, she''s returned to weaving and, surprisingly, her textiles are of exceptional quality and sell out quickly at the market.]


    [You joke that she''s like the mythical crane who spins silk by plucking her own feathers in gratitude.]


    ["But didn''t the crane leave in the end?" Kyoko sets down her spindle, nestling into your arms with augh. "I''m not going anywhere."]


    ---


    [Age 23: Your hard work together has brought prosperity to your household, and you begin considering having children.]


    [People in your vige often marry and have children young, and many of your old friends are now fathers. In the past, financial struggles held you back from such thoughts, but that''s no longer a concern.]


    [To reach this goal, you "redouble your efforts." Kyoko teases that you''re like an ox, tirelessly plowing the fields without regard for the soil''s limits.]


    [Of course, you aren''t reckless. Kyoko is, after all, only human. But, steeped in tradition, you feel that a child would make your family trulyplete.]


    ---


    [Age 24: Despite your diligent "farming," Kyoko''s belly remains stubbornly unchanged. Even her parents feel embarrassed and suggest you take a concubine to ensure an heir, but you refuse outright.]


    [One day, Kyoko brings home a small fox with soft, pink fur¡ªa rarity and very adorable.]


    ["Let''s think of it as our child for now," she suggests.]


    [While you know a fox could never rece a child, you humor her, and the two of you care for it lovingly. Kyoko names the fox "Miko," hoping that the "divine will bless us with a child."]


    [Of course, you don''t believe in divine intervention; you believe only in your own efforts.]


    <i>Miko? A pink-haired fox?</i>


    <i>Yae Miko?</i>


    <i>Why would she show up as a pet?</i>


    ---


    [Age 25: The little fox is incredibly clever, often amusing you both with its antics. Oddly, it prefers to cling to you more than Kyoko, making her slightly jealous.]


    [It even seems capable of feeling embarrassment. One day, curiosity gets the best of you, and you try to determine its gender, only for it to cover its face with its fluffy tail for hours, sulking until Kyoko brings its favorite treat¡ªfried tofu.]


    ---


    [Age 26: Over the years, you see fewer yokai friends, and reports of yokai attacks on vigers be increasinglymon¡ªsomething unheard of before.]


    [Nearby viges suffer strange urrences, yet yours remains unscathed. Perhaps due to your strong spiritual energy, malevolent yokai avoid approaching.]


    [Kyoko often seems troubled, and you assume it''s due to her difficulty conceiving. You frequently try to console her.]


    ---


    [Age 27: You hear of a nearby shrine known for its powerful blessings and decide to take Kyoko there to pray. On the way, you''re suddenly ambushed by a horde of frenzied yokai.]


    [Though Kitsune Saiguu taught you some spells, and your body is resilient, these hostile creatures overwhelm you.]


    [Desperately shielding Kyoko, you urge her to escape, but unexpectedly, a barrage of light arrows appears, vanquishing the yokai in an instant.]


    [Stunned, you recognize the spell as one only Kitsune Saiguu could cast, which she once shamelessly used to cheat during a festival game.]


    [Turning to look, your eyes widen in shock. Kyoko''s hair has turned silver, and fox ears and a tail have appeared on her body.]


    [Her garments flow around her just as they did ten years ago, when she looked exactly like this.]


    [In that moment, understanding dawns. Why Kyoko was resurrected, why she lost her memory, and why her personality had changed.]


    ["I''m sorry," Kitsune Saiguu sighs, "I couldn''t save the real Kyoko, so I did the only thing I could¡ªI took her form, allowing her to ''live on'' through me."]


    [The true Kyoko passed away ten years ago. It''s been Kitsune Saiguu by your side all along.]


    ["Human lives are so brief," Kitsune Saiguu says quietly. "I thought I could carry on this lie until your end, but now... I must leave."]


    ["Don''t go!" you plead. "Keep lying to me if you must. Just don''t leave me."]


    [Even if it was a lie, it was a beautiful one, and the feelings you shared over the past decade were genuine.]


    [But Kitsune Saiguu shakes her head. "I would love nothing more than to stay with you. These past ten years have been the happiest of my life. But now, Inazuma faces a dire cmity, and I can''t ignore its suffering for our happiness. Once I''m gone, Miko will stay with you in my ce."]


    [From the start, Miko was never meant as a substitute for a child but for Kitsune Saiguu herself.]


    [With that, Kitsune Saiguu disappears, leaving only a delicately crafted wooden dart¡ªthe same one she used during the festival.]


    [Item Acquired: Summer Festival''s End (Set)]


    [Effect (2/4): Enhances all defensive skills by 35%; (4/4): While under shield protection or defense boosts, gain an additional 40% attack damage bonus.]


    [Achievement Unlocked: Reverse Shooting Star]


    ---


    [When you return home, the house, once filled withughter, now feels empty. Little Miko seems to sense Kitsune Saiguu''s absence and rubs her nose gently against your hand.]


    [Kitsune Saiguu had said that Miko would rece her. But really, what could possibly rece Kitsune Saiguu?]


    ["From now on, it''ll just be the two of us... or rather, one man and one fox." Youugh wryly, only for Miko to open her mouth and speak, "What do I look like to you?"]


    [Startled, you realize this little fox, raised by Kitsune Saiguu, must be a yokai herself. Though her powers are limited, she''s learned to speak.]


    [Yokai like foxes and tanuki often encounter a bottleneck in their power. To surpass it, they seek a human''s recognition and ask, "What do I look like to you?"]


    [Saying they look "human" allows them to break through, while calling them a "spirit" can elevate their power even further. But any other answer can lead to disastrous consequences.]


    [However, Miko is inexperienced. Barely possessing any powers, she''s rushed into taking human form without disguise, directly asking you this important question. Your response is...]


    [1. "You look like a ten-kilometer space battleship."]


    [2. "You look like a 148-centimeter pink-haired fox-eared girl with... ample bosom!."]


    [3. "You look like a Tibetan fox who loves nunchucks and researching mythical water creatures."]


    As a man, Lucas is curious about what an actual space battleship would look like, but saying that would probably make Miko cry.


    As for the third option?


    The image of Miko with a Tibetan fox face brings a smile to his lips.


    You look like a 148-centimeter pink-haired fox-eared girl with... ample bosom.


    [No sooner do the words leave your mouth than Miko sneezes, and with a poof, the fluffy pink fox transforms into a pink-haired young girl.]


    [Entering immersive mode.]


    The girl appears to be around sixteen or seventeen, her beauty almost on par with Kitsune Saiguu''s. Due to your mand," she''s petite in stature yet with... surprisingly exaggerated proportions.


    Her vibrant violet eyes gaze at you with a lively sparkle, studying you intently.


    "It seems Lady Saiguu has left," she murmurs, ncing over herself with a smile. "From now on, I''ll be here to serve you in her ce."


    ----


    Author''s Note: Poor Kyoko... anyways


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 136: Villain Simulator, Ch 135

    <h4>Chapter 136: Viin Simtor, Ch 135</h4>


    Even the yful glint in her eyes and the curve of her smile bore a striking resemnce to Kitsune Saiguu''s own.


    Lucas couldn''t help but wonder¡ªdid Kitsune Saiguu think so little of human emotions? When Kyoko died, she reced her with herself; now, with her own departure, she''d arranged for yet another fox to take her ce.


    Still, he wasn''t too surprised by Miko''s transformation, as it was something Kitsune Saiguu might indeed do. He simply patted her head and asked, "So, how exactly do you intend to rece her?"


    Miko tapped her chest confidently, "Anything Lady Saiguu could do, I can do too! I can cook, spin cloth, clean the house... I could even put your ''long bread'' into a warm oven..."


    Lucas''s face flushed. He suddenly remembered that he''d never bothered with modesty around Miko, treating her as a simple pet even during intimate moments with Kyoko. Apparently, she''d picked up more than a few things from observing him and Kyoko.


    Eager to prove herself, Miko wrapped her arms around his neck, her face turning a shade of pink as she whispered, "I remember Lady Saiguu would do it like this..."


    While Miko showed no sense of human shame, Lucas quickly stopped her, sighing, "You''re not Kitsune Saiguu, nor are you Kyoko. You can''t rece them."


    A hint of sadness flickered in Miko''s eyes as she looked up at him, crestfallen. "Then... what can I do for you? Lady Saiguu told me to stay with you no matter what."


    Kitsune Saiguu must have worried her departure would hit him too hard, perhaps even drive him to despair. That''s why she''d made Miko promise to never leave him.


    "Then go back to your original form," Lucas said, making his request gently. "I prefer you as a fox."


    Of course, this wasn''t his true feeling, but seeing Miko in human form would only remind him of Kitsune Saiguu.


    "A fox form?" Miko pondered, nodding. "I''ll try!"


    With furrowed brows, she formed a hand sign, concentrating on a transformation spell.


    At this time, Miko was far from the powerful High Priestess of the Grand Narukami Shrine she would be five centuriester; she was still a small fox, struggling to master her human transformation.


    A swirl of fluffy pink fur appeared, and Miko transformed... mostly.


    Now, her face had morphed into a fox''s, and her body was covered in pink fur, yet she retained a humanoid shape, creating an unusual, captivating beauty.


    A delight for those with a penchant for anthropomorphic forms.


    "S-sorry!" Miko stammered, clearly distressed by her iplete transformation. "I... I''ll practice and get better at it, so please don''t send me away!"


    "No need to force it," Lucas said with a wry smile. "Take your time. I''m not going to send you away¡ªyou''re all I have now."


    Despite these words, Lucas''s heart remained restless. He still hadn''t let go of Kitsune Saiguu. No matter what, he had to see her one more time.


    ---


    [Age 28: You restore Kyoko''s gravestone. Both your parents and hers passed away a few years ago, sparing them from ever knowing Kyoko''s fate.]


    [Fourteen years have passed since her death, and though you''ve now lived twenty-eight years, you realize that what remains is familial affection for Kyoko. The seed of love, however, was nted long ago, back when you were seven.]


    [You no longer n to follow Kitsune Saiguu''s request to live quietly with Miko. You resolve to find her, even if it means traveling down a path that divides human and yokai forever.]


    [You sell your family''s property, taking only Miko and the four precious mementos Kitsune Saiguu left behind¡ªthe Ever-Blooming Flower, Fox Mask, Water Balloon, and Wooden Dart¡ªas you set off on your journey.]


    [In truth, you already have a clear lead. Kitsune Saiguu is the High Priestess of the Grand Narukami Shrine. Even if she isn''t there, someone at the shrine will know where she is.]


    [This journey is far from easy. As Kitsune Saiguu foretold, Inazuma is in turmoil, gued by strange urrences. A human with spiritual power and a fledgling fox yokai experience many hardships along the way, each more difficult than thest.]


    [But Miko remains uining. She is your pet, but also your family. She mends your torn clothes and curls up beside you on cold nights, keeping your bed warm with her fluffy fur... though, of course, it often falls to you to sweep up her shed fur, especially since she often falls asleep first.]


    [Perhaps due to her Kitsune bloodline, Miko grows rapidly in strength. While she can''t yet defeat formidable enemies, her illusions help you escape from dangerous encounters.]


    [After a long journey, you finally reach the border of Mt. Yougou. All that remains is to climb the steep path to enter the Grand Narukami Shrine.]


    [However, unlike the bustling shrine it will be in five hundred years, this era''s Grand Narukami Shrine is not open to all. As you attempt to ascend the first step, you find yourself stopped by an invisible barrier.]


    ["It''s no use. You won''t get through," says a familiar voice from within the barrier. A shrine maiden with a clear, delicate face appears and, with a cold expression, informs you, "Lady Saiguu has set a special seal over the shrine''s boundary. You, of all people, are forbidden to pass."]


    [Even though you haven''t seen her for over ten years, you instantly recognize her: "Hibiki! Is it really you, Hibiki? It''s me, Ashan!"]


    [Your reaction seems to surprise her, but she quickly resumes her impassive tone. "I am now Asase Hibiki, a shrine maiden under Lady Saiguu''s guidance."]


    [You beg Asase Hibiki to let you in, but she coldly refuses. It''s clear she never liked you much, even as a child. Perhaps she''s even pleased to see you separated from Kitsune Saiguu.]


    ["Even I can''t break Lady Saiguu''s seal," she says bluntly. "And besides, Lady Saiguu is currently upied, cleansing Inazuma of this cmity. She doesn''t have time for your childish games."]


    [Her words sting, angering you, but deep down, you wonder¡ªwere the ten years Kitsune Saiguu spent with you really nothing more than a fleeting amusement?]


    [Yet, you refuse to give up. Knowing she''s here, you vow to remain at the shrine''s entrance until she agrees to see you.]


    [Exhausted by the long journey, you sit outside the shrine gate, enduring three days without food or water before finally copsing.]


    [When you regain consciousness, you find yourself lying in a bamboo hut. Sitting beside you, in addition to the small fox Miko, is a beautiful girl with ck hair.]


    [The girl wears a red mask, and two pairs of ck wings extend from her back. Having encountered various yokai, you recognize her as a member of the tengu n, one of the four great yokai ns of Inazuma.]


    Though Inazuma is home to many yokai, the tengu, tanuki, oni, and fox ns are the most prominent. Unlike five hundred yearster, when yokai bloodlines are rare, in this era, yokai are as populous as humans.


    [The tengu girl introduces herself as "Teruyo," a member of the tengu n living on Mt. Yougou. She exins that she found Miko while patrolling the mountains and followed her to where youy unconscious, bringing you back to her n''s home.]


    [Generally, yokai avoid unnecessary interaction with humans. Teruyo would normally guide a lost human back down the mountain, but this time, for some reason, she chose to bring you to her n''s sanctuary. (Talent: Demon Affinity activated.)]


    [Bringing a human back to a yokai n is rare. Upon awakening, you''re summoned immediately to meet the tengu n''s chief.]


    [The tengu chief, a dignified and graceful woman named "Reizenbou," asks why you''re on Mt. Yougou. Instead of exining outright, you tell her you wish to see Kitsune Saiguu for an answer, but were stopped by her barrier.]


    ["That wild fox," Reizenbou muses with a mysterious smile. "She loves to set fires everywhere and never bothers to put them out. Perhaps one finally zed back to her own doorstep?" She smirks. "Forget a mere mortal¡ªeven in all of Inazuma, only a handful could break her seal."]


    [Her words ignite a spark within you, and you plead for Reizenbou''s help in breaking the barrier.]


    [Your request is denied, as she refuses to risk angering her neighbor for a stranger.]


    [Undeterred, you propose another solution: "Then, I ask that you teach me your arts." If you break the barrier yourself, it won''t disrupt the alliance between the tengu and the Grand Narukami Shrine.]


    [Reizenbou seems surprised by your request. As she hesitates, Teruyo enters, requesting her mother ept you as a disciple.]


    [Reizenbouughs softly. "If my daughter herself is asking on your behalf, I suppose I can''t refuse. But remember, I will only teach you for ten years. When that time ends, whether you seed or fail, you must leave. And in the future, should the tengu n call upon you, you cannot refuse."]


    [Ten years. Once again, your life seems entwined with ten-year promises. Your deal with Kitsune Saiguusted ten years; you spent ten years with her. And now, another ten-year pledge awaits.]


    [For these yokai, ten years pass in the blink of an eye. But how many such spans do you, as a human, have left?]


    ["Also, as my disciple, you''ll need a new name," Reizenbou smiles. "It''s said that one who receives a tengu''s name receives their blessing. Today is a fine, clear day, so let this be your name tomemorate it."]


    [Thus, you are given a seemingly simple name: Harunosuke.]


    Harunosuke?


    Kamuna Harunosuke?


    The first onmyoji in Inazuman history and one of the famed "Youngou Three" The very founder of the Onmyoji Bureau that wouldter rise to prominence.


    Following the Doctor and Eberhart, Lucas had once again taken the ce of a historical figure from Genshin Impact.


    ---


    [Age 29: When ites to martial arts, the sooner you begin, the better; but learning sorcery doesn''t face such restrictions. And for the tengu n, thirty isn''t even considered mature.]


    [Unexpectedly, your talent far exceeds even Reizenbou''s expectations. Skills that would take a tengu prodigy two weeks to master, you learn in a few hours. (Great Onmyoji talent activated.)]


    [Age 30: Within a single year, you make remarkable progress in your abilities, so much so that Reizenbou often sighs,menting that you were born human instead of a yokai.]


    [You suspect she mourns the potential loss of your gifts to human mortality, as even a lifetime of mastery will flicker out like a meteor.]


    [Age 31: Reizenbou gradually transfers more of your training to her daughter, Teruyo. This cheerful tengu girl is skilled in both sorcery and swordsmanship, and she often shares a few sword techniques with you.]


    [In addition to your talent for learning, you also have a ir for innovation, recording Teruyo''s swordy with "Mimicry Art," allowing you to mirror her techniques perfectly.]


    [Although this shortcut is useless against an expert like Teruyo, it''s more than enough to handle ordinary opponents.]


    [Meanwhile, Miko lives with you, spending the day as your "pet" and shifting into her human form at night to help with chores and keep youpany. She has no objections to your ns; as long as she''s by your side, she''s content.]


    [asionally, rumors circte about a woman''s silhouette seen in your window, though it''s mostly dismissed as a joke.]


    [Age 32: After three years of rigorous training, your skills in sorcery have soared. One day, you once again stand before the gate of the Grand Narukami Shrine, preparing to test your abilities by opening a breach in the barrier.]


    [Yet despite your remarkable progress, even you fail to create so much as a crack in the barrier.]


    [Just as you fall into despair, a familiar, haughty voice drifts over: "I didn''t think you would still be trying. Even with the tengu''s sorcery, you''ll never break Lady Saiguu''s barrier."]


    [Entering Immersive Mode.]


    ---


    As expected, the speaker was none other than the shrine maiden Asase Hibiki, who had always looked upon him with disdain.


    By all rights, she should be around his age, yet she looked scarcely more than twenty. Clearly, under Kitsune Saiguu''s guidance, she had also picked up some longevity practices.


    "One day, I will break this seal!" Lucas dered with determination. "And then, I''ll confront Kitsune Saiguu myself for answers."


    "Why put yourself through this?" Hibiki shook her head. "It''s not as if Lady Saiguu is the only woman in the world."


    "You wouldn''t understand," Lucas replied quietly. "When you have someone you truly care for, you''ll realize that some people are irreceable."


    A smile crept onto his face as he added, "Then again, with your sharp personality, I doubt anyone could fall for you."


    "What... what did you just say?" Hibiki spluttered, visibly enraged. "Even I... even I..."


    "Well, well, Hibiki! Fancy seeing you here!" A cheerful voice called out behind Lucas. "Looks like I saved myself a trip up the mountain, hahaha!"


    Turning around, Lucas saw a broad-shouldered man in an official uniform, likely a few years his senior, striding over with a hearty grin. "Hey, young fellow, are you Hibiki''s friend?"


    "Of course not!" Hibiki snapped. "Just an intruder causing trouble at the gate."


    "That won''t do!" The man immediately drew a katana from his side, "Let me help you chase him off!"


    "Wait!" Hibiki hadn''t finished exining when the man had already charged forward with his sword raised.


    Lucas didn''t hesitate, using "Mimicry Art" to emte Teruyo''s sword techniques, parrying the man''s assault.


    To his surprise, the man was a skilled swordsman, and Lucas soon found himself overwhelmed. Just as the man was about to strike, he stopped his de mid-air, eyeing Lucas with interest. "Hold on¡ªthis is tengu swordsmanship. Who are you?"


    "I am a disciple of Reizenbou, the tengu chief," Lucas answered honestly.


    "Oh, so we''re practically family then!" The man sheathed his sword with augh. "I''m Takamine The Mistsplitter. I once trained in tengu arts myself before taking a post under the Shogun. I guess that makes us brothers of a sort!"


    "Takamine The Mistsplitter?" Hibiki scoffed, sticking out her tongue. "Your real name is Konbumaru."


    For some reason, the usually cold and aloof Hibiki seemed flustered around him.


    Even Lucas noticed that she seemed to harbor some feelings for this Takamine.


    "Th-that was just a nickname from my teacher," Takamine protested. "Tengu love giving weird names. So, kid, they didn''t give you anything strange, did they?"


    "My name is Harunosuke," Lucas replied.


    "Huh... that''s almost disappointingly normal," Takamine chuckled, scratching his chin. "Anyway, I actually came here with some good news."


    "Oh, let me guess," Hibiki replied in a sarcastic tone, though there was a hint of anxiety. "Some rock finally cracked, and you managed to charm some poor soul?"


    "Sharp as always, Hibiki!" Takamineughed. "I''ve just been promoted to Hatamoto, a direct retainer of the Shogun and my family''s been overwhelmed by matchmakers. I finally settled on the daughter of a high-ranking official. Never thought a guy like me would end up with a highborndy."


    There it is, Lucas thought with a grimace. Hibiki''s act had pushed things too far, and now her aloofness had cost her dearly.


    "Is... is that so?" Hibiki''s face turned pale, though she tried to maintain herposure. "Is... is she beautiful?"


    "She''s not as pretty as you," Takamine said with augh, entirely oblivious to her feelings. "But she''s kind and gentlepletely different from you!"


    Perfect, Lucas thought, watching the unyielding tsundere and the oblivious tough guy struggle with their unspoken feelings. No wonder they never stood a chance.


    Takamine set down a basket on his back, the contents jingling. "Come on, let''s all drink to celebrate. Harunosuke, you too. Drinking''s only fun with friends!"


    "I''m not in the mood for drinking." Hibiki''s tone was icy. "I''m not feeling well today. You can go ahead."


    "What''s wrong?" Takamine scratched his head. "Want me to take a look?"


    "No!" Hibiki bit her lip, trembling. "Just get out of here! Go celebrate with yourdy!"


    Perplexed, Takamine scratched his head and finally nodded. "Well... alright then. The drinks are here if you change your mind."


    He turned to leave, then paused. "Oh, and Hibiki... you''re not getting any younger. Maybe it''s time to find someone worth waiting for, instead of wasting your life on things that are nevering back."


    It seemed he wasn''t entirely unaware.


    Perhaps he did have feelings for Hibiki, but as a hatamoto in the Shogun''s service, he couldn''t take a shrine maiden as his wife. His future, his career¡ªthey weighed heavily on his decision.


    On one side of the scalesy Hibiki; on the other, his ambitions. In the end, he chose the weightier path.


    Watching Takamine''s figure fade into the distance, Lucas felt a chill break over him. Though he and Hibiki had never really gotten along, in this moment, he couldn''t help but pity her.


    Falling for such a man, with a personality as annoying as hers¡ªit was a recipe for heartbreak.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Extra Chapter!

 Chapter 137: Villain Simulator, Ch 136

    <h4>Chapter 137: Viin Simtor, Ch 136</h4>


    "Then... I''ll be on my way," Lucas said awkwardly, feeling stifled by the heavy atmosphere. "You should head back soon too."


    "Wait."


    Just as he turned to leave, Asase Hibiki''s low voice stopped him in his tracks.


    "Is there something you need?" Lucas asked with a sigh.


    "Do you have time right now?" Hibiki''s expression darkened as she posed her question.


    "I... I haveundry to hang," Lucas replied, grasping for an excuse.


    At that moment, a distant rumble of thunder broke through the air. Dark clouds swiftly nketed the sky, and rain seemed imminent. His excuse fell apart under nature''s timing.


    "Looks like you''re free now," Hibiki said tly. Stepping out of the shrine''s barrier, she effortlessly lifted a heavy basket of sake jars, each weighing over twenty pounds. "Come on, drink with me. I know a good spot."


    The truth was, Lucas could think of no better time to drown oneself in alcohol. If someone could lend an ear to his grievances while drinking, even better.


    Unluckily for him, Hibiki had chosen him for that role.


    As he racked his brain for a way to decline her "invitation," Hibiki added, "If you drink with me, I''ll tell you how to break the barrier."


    Faced with such a tempting offer, Lucas had no choice but to relent.


    He couldn''t deny it¡ªthough Reizenbou, the tengu chief, had the strength to break Kitsune Saiguu''s barrier, Lucas wasn''t sure he could reach such power within the allotted ten years of training.


    If Hibiki truly had a shortcut, he couldn''t afford to let the chance slip away.


    ---


    Hibiki''s "good spot" turned out to be an abandoned shrine.


    Legends imed Inazuma housed eight million gods. While the number was an exaggeration, shrines dedicated to lesser deities were not umon.


    When those deities vanished and their followers faded into obscurity, the shrines were left unattended, either overtaken by nature or forgotten entirely in the wilderness.


    The shrine Hibiki led him to wasn''trge, and the statue it once housed had eroded beyond recognition.


    Yet, contrary to what he expected, the ce was remarkably clean. It was clear someone had been maintaining it.


    "Konbumaru and I used to drink here all the time," Hibiki said, setting out cups. "That idiot... he really thought of me as one of the guys."


    The knife marks on the pirs, the dice cups beneath the altar, the arrow quivers in the corners¡ªall seemed to whisper stories of the past.


    The sake poured into their cups exuded a rich, enticing aroma.


    "You liked him, didn''t you?" Lucas asked bluntly.


    "I..." Hibiki instinctively wanted to deny it, but in the end, she could only offer a bitter smile. "I did."


    The sake, meant to be sweet, tasted unbearably bitter.


    "You''re such a coward," Lucas said after downing a cup. "I confessed my feelings to Lady Saiguu when I was only seventeen."


    "So what if I was turned away?" Lucas continued, pouring himself another drink. "I''m still here, shamelessly waiting for her."


    "If I''d had your courage, maybe things would have been different," Hibiki muttered, taking another swig. "I... I apologize for the things I said to you before. Your feelings for Lady Saiguu are no joke."


    "And you''re not some heartless old hag," Lucas replied, raising his cup. "Tonight, let''s drink until we can''t stand. Cheers!"


    The clinking of cups sounded like the shattering of hearts.


    ---


    Hourster.


    Around the roaring firepit, countless empty bottlesy scattered.


    "You bastard, Konbumaru! What kind of fool was I to fall for you?" Hibiki''s face was flushed from the alcohol, and her normally tidy shrine maiden attire was disheveled, revealing a shoulder as pale as carved jade.


    "And you, Kitsune Saiguu! You heartless woman!" Lucas, equally drunk, vented years of pent-up frustration. "I gave up everything for you, and you can''t even face me!"


    "D-don''t speak ill of Lady Saiguu..."


    Despite her inebriation, Hibiki''s respect for Kitsune Saiguu remained unwavering. She stumbled toward Lucas, only to trip and fall before reaching him.


    Lucas instinctively moved to catch her, but his own unsteady footing caused him to step on her skirt. A loud tear resounded as the red fabric ripped, and they both tumbled onto the rotting wooden floorboards.


    The flickering fire cast their intertwined shadows onto the crumbling gray walls.


    Without the real-world benefits of his talents and abilities¡ªlike the Never Drunk trait¡ªLucas''s alcohol tolerance proved woefully ordinary.


    Hibiki''s silhouette, so simr to Kitsune Saiguu''s,bined with her identical shrine maiden garb, blurred the lines in Lucas''s drunken mind.


    Outside, the downpour began in earnest, thunder rolling across the heavens. With no way to leave, they were trapped together in the secluded shrine.


    Their gazes met, holding for a few seconds before Hibiki leaned forward and kissed him without hesitation.


    Lucas half-heartedly resisted, his mind clouded by the haze of alcohol. From childhood to now, he had never won against Hibiki¡ªtonight was no exception.


    "You''re mistaken," Lucas said, managing to push her away slightly. "I''m not Takamine."


    "I know you''re not," Hibiki replied, her voice tinged with bitterness and pain. "But if he can marry another woman... then I''ll give myself to another man!"


    Though she was in her thirties, Hibiki still bore the naivety of a young girl. This act of vengeance against Takamine was her desperate attempt to reim agency over her own shattered heart.


    "I..."


    Lucas tried to respond, but Hibiki cut him off with a single deration.


    "Agree to this, or else," she said, her hand pressing firmly against his chest. "I won''t tell you the secret to breaking the barrier. You''ll never see Lady Saiguu again."


    Lucas was reminded that this was, after all, the <i>Viin Simtor.</i>


    Sometimes, achieving your goals required doing things you''d rather not.


    The potent sake left by Takamine clouded his mind further, its aroma mingling with the storm''s petrichor. The shadows on the wall shifted and danced, as if mocking them.


    The alcohol dulled Hibiki''s pain¡ªboth the one in her heart and the one in her body.


    Lucas moved with practiced familiarity, aiding Hibiki in executing her so-called "revenge n."


    The abandoned shrine, shrouded in the veil of heavy rain, felt warm and alive within the confines of its decrepit walls.


    Suddenly, a heavy silhouette appeared at the door, rapping lightly on the wooden frame that seemed ready to copse under the wind and rain. "Hibiki, it''s... Konbumaru. Are you in there?"


    Both Lucas and Hibiki froze. They hadn''t expected Takamine to find this ce under such circumstances.


    The flickering firelight within the shrine betrayed their presence¡ªwho else would be here but Hibiki?


    Caught unprepared, there was no time to tidy up. If Takamine saw them, the consequences would be disastrous.


    "D-don''te in!" Hibiki bit her lip, her voice trembling. "I... I don''t want to see you!"


    "Then I''ll speak from here," Takamine sighed, his deep voice almost drowned out by the rain. "I''ve thought long and hard, and I realize... I can''t get you out of my heart."


    Hearing this, Hibiki covered her mouth, unsure if her tears stemmed from joy, bitterness, or regret.


    Lucas''s movements reminded her that it was already toote.


    "But I cannot defy the marriage arranged by the Shogun," Takamine added hesitantly. "So... would you consider being my concubine? I promise, I''ll treat you as I would a wife."


    Even Lucas knew this suggestion was a lost cause. With her prideful personality, Hibiki couldn''t stand to share Takamine with someone else, let alone agree to being a concubine.


    A bitter smile appeared on Hibiki''s face before she replied, her tone icy: "Give me an hour. I''ll think about it and give you an answer."


    "Very well!" Takamine said eagerly. "Can... can I wait inside? It''s pouring out here."


    "No!" Hibiki snapped. "Do you have so little sincerity?"


    "Fine, fine!" Takamine relented, stepping back into the downpour. "I''ll wait here."


    Perhaps, outside in the rain, he felt confident that Hibiki would eventually agree to his terms. Little did he know that this was all part of her revenge.


    "Why are you doing this?" Lucas whispered, confused.


    "Shut up and keep going," Hibiki murmured back, her tone sharp. "If you dare stop before the hour is up, I won''t tell you how to break the barrier."


    An hour.


    For an ordinary human, such a demand might be impossible. But for Lucas¡ªstrengthened by the Hakushin Spring and trained under the tengu¡ªit was merely a test of endurance.


    Takamine, stoic under the pounding rain, grew restless from the endless wait. Though he refrained from entering the shrine, he asionally called out, hoping to chat with Hibiki. Her replies, however, were either absent or muffled, as though her mouth was upied with something else.


    For all three involved, the hour dragged on interminably.


    Outside, Takamine dreamed of a future with two women at his side. Inside, Lucas endured the "blessings" of being in the midst of a different kind of arrangement.


    Finally, the hour passed. Before Takamine could speak, the shrine''s door creaked open.


    Hibiki, her cheeks flushed, stepped into the doorway. Her cold gaze locked onto Takamine. "I''ve made up my mind. I can''t be the concubine of a hatamoto. Please leave."


    The torn hem of her shrine maiden outfit trailed loosely, strands of crimson silk scattered across the floor.


    "Why..." Takamine began, instinctively stepping forward to question her decision.


    "Don''te any closer," Hibiki said, her voice steady. "If you do, you''ll cross the line. Please, take care of your wife. You were right¡ªI should find someone else to cherish me."


    Through the crack in the door, Takamine glimpsed a man''s clothing inside the shrine. In that moment, he seemed to understand everything.


    Had Hibiki betrayed him?


    No¡ªhe, who had married a noblewoman of his own ord, had no right to im betrayal.


    "Take care," Takamine muttered, his voice hollow as he turned and vanished into the storm.


    The downpour extinguished the young retainer''s dreams and sobered the two people left inside.


    "Don''t tell anyone about this," Hibiki said curtly, her tone reverting to its usual coldness. "And don''t feel guilty¡ªthis was my choice."


    "Now," Lucas said, cutting straight to the point. "Will you tell me how to break the barrier?"


    "You''ve already done it," Hibiki replied with a faint smile.


    "What?" Lucas asked, confused.


    "This barrier requires a shrine maiden of great spiritual power to maintain it monthly with their... pure blood," Hibiki exined, her expression unreadable. "Now that I''m no longer... pure, the barrier will gradually weaken. In time, you''ll be able to break it."


    Kitsune Saiguu and her prot¨¦g¨¦, Asase Hibiki, were undoubtedly the two most powerful shrine maidens of the Grand Narukami Shrine.


    Under different circumstances, the little fox Miko might have been poised to be the third.


    It was ironic that the loss of purity for both Saiguu and Hibiki was somehow tied to Lucas.


    He didn''t doubt Hibiki''s im. Over the years, he had learned enough about barriers to know that blood rituals were amon maintenance method.


    "So you nned this from the beginning?" Lucas murmured.


    "Not at all," Hibiki admitted. "I just wanted someone to drink with me."


    "Will you still tell me the ''shortcut''?" Lucas asked.


    "Of course. Why would I lie?" Hibiki replied, a sly grin tugging at her lips. "Whether you seed depends on your own skill."


    Indeed, Hibiki hadn''t intended to keep the secret from Lucas. She figured that even if he knew, his frustration at being powerless to act would be amusing.


    What she hadn''t ounted for was how alcohol would alter her own actions, leading to this unforeseen oue.


    Still, as she watched Takamine walk away, she felt an immense weight lift from her chest¡ªa lingering bitterness finally purged.


    That day, Hibiki seemed to be reborn, leaving behind the person she once was.


    ---


    Returning to the Grand Narukami Shrine the next day, Hibiki looked visibly drained. After all, for an ordinary human, enduring such an ordeal had taken both physical and emotional tolls.


    To her surprise, a familiar figure was waiting at the main hall.


    "L-Lady Saiguu?" Hibiki hastily bowed. "When did you return?"


    "Not long ago," Kitsune Saiguu replied, turning to face her.


    Her appearance remained as youthful and radiant as ever, though her expression now carried an undertone of weariness.


    For years, Kitsune Saiguu had tirelessly worked to cleanse Inazuma of cmity and corruption, her visits to the shrine serving mostly as moments of brief respite.


    "By the way," Kitsune Saiguu said, narrowing her eyes slightly. "When I returned to the shrine... I noticed the barrier seemed a little... weak."


    Typical of Kitsune Saiguu¡ªHibiki''s loss of purity was barely a day old, and she had already detected something amiss.


    ---


    Author''s Note: NTR BAHAHHAHAHA


    OK, save your stones for after the reset if you want a lot of extra Chapters, this simtion will be even more epic! Trust

 Chapter 138: Villain Simulator, Ch 137

    <h4>Chapter 138: Viin Simtor, Ch 137</h4>


    Hibiki fell to her knees immediately. "I have sinned!" she dered. "It was myck of discipline... I couldn''t resist the loneliness..."


    Her heart was tangled in knots as she thought about the events of the previous night. What would Kitsune Saiguu say if she knew who had sullied her purity?


    To her surprise, Kitsune Saiguu smiled gently and said, "It''s alright. Humans are creatures of emotion¡ªhow can anyone suppress that forever? I''m d your rtionship with Konbumaru has deepened."


    So that''s how she interpreted it!


    Even someone as wise as Kitsune Saiguu couldn''t have anticipated the absurd mistake that had urred the previous night.


    Hibiki neither confirmed nor denied her words. She simply bowed her head silently.


    "By the way..." Kitsune Saiguu said, her tone casual yet deliberate, "Is he still here?"


    "No," Hibiki shook her head. "A few days ago, he tried attacking the barrier again but failed. Yet the seal has weakened, and at the rate he''s improving, it won''t hold for much longer..."


    Though Kitsune Saiguu outwardly seemed indifferent to Lucas, she was always watching over him.


    "It doesn''t matter," she said with a bitter smile, shaking her head. "I doubt I''ll live to see the day he breaks through the barrier. After the next Great Purification, my time wille to an end."


    "Lady Saiguu! Don''t say such things!" Hibiki eximed in panic. "Don''t leave us!"


    "I won''t leave you," Kitsune Saiguu reassured her with a serene smile. "I''ll remain with you... in another form."


    And with you too, Ashan.


    ---


    [Entering Text Mode]


    [Age 33: With the barrier at the Grand Narukami Shrine weakening, your resolve to train grows fiercer. You push yourself to the brink, skipping meals and rest until Miko forces you to sleep.]


    [To stave off exhaustion, you adopt a tengu remedy: smoking. Unlike addictive human tobo, the tengu''s handpicked leaves are soothing and refreshing, invigorating both mind and body.]


    [Reizenbou mentions that Kitsune Saiguu also had a fondness for smoking and was quite addicted to it. You recall how, during your ten years together, she never once indulged around you. The thought stirs something deep within you.]


    [In your spare time, you craft an exquisitely detailed smoking pipe, intending it as a gift for her on the day you reunite.]


    [Age 34: Through relentless practice and your remarkable talent, you shatter yet another barrier in your sorcery. Within a single year, you surpass most members of the tengu n in skill.]


    [Brimming with confidence, you challenge the barrier once more, only to find it unyielding¡ªeven in its weakened state. The gap between your power and Kitsune Saiguu''s bes painfully clear.]


    [She had youpletely outmaneuvered. Frustration and despair crash over you as you realize that, at your current pace, breaking the barrier within ten years remains a distant dream.]


    [You lock yourself in your room for three days, refusing food or water, until Teruyo uses her immense strength to force open your door. She shoves food and water into your mouth, scolding you the entire time.]


    [Out of sympathy, Teruyo reveals a secret: the tengu n possesses a forbidden manual that can exponentially increase spiritual power¡ªbut at great personal risk.]


    [Without hesitation, you beg her to let you study it. You''re willing to pay any price to break the barrier.]


    [After much internal struggle, Teruyo finally agrees. She secretly retrieves an ancient text from her mother, Reizenbou: the "Tengu''s Forbidden Sealing Codex."]


    [As she hands it over, Teruyo warns you once more: the techniques within carry irreversible consequences. After a moment''s thought, you decide...]


    [1. To read it.]


    [2. To refrain.]


    Naturally, you choose to read it. Lucas knows all too well that simtors seldom lead to happy endings, but a bad result is better than no result at all.


    "Read it."


    [Without hesitation, you open the ominous tome and are immediately captivated by its teachings.]


    [The methods described are indeed perilous, but the power they promise is immense. Though your talents already surpass even the yokai, your human lifespan remains your greatest limitation.]


    [Once again, you devote yourself entirely to training. Your progress elerates to an astonishing pace.]


    [You can''t help but feel a tinge of envy toward Miko. Her innate gifts, far surpassing your own, allow her to grow stronger daily without needing such extreme methods.]


    [Still, she has no ambition. Her favorite activities remain curling up in yourp to nap or asking you to scratch her back.]


    ---


    [Age 37: After three grueling years of training, you challenge the barrier again. This time, your sorcery creates a crack¡ªyour first glimpse of hope.]


    [Hibiki witnesses your sess and agrees to pass a message to Kitsune Saiguu: you will see her soon.]


    [Since that fateful night in the rain, your rtionship with Hibiki has grown subtle andplicated. Though she no longer mocks you with sarcasm, neither has she be closer.]


    [She ims to have forsaken worldly desires to pursue mastery as a shrine maiden akin to Kitsune Saiguu. Yet every few months, she brings fine sake and invites you to a crumbling shrine to drink and vent.]


    [Sometimes it''s for news of Takamine''s marriage. Sometimes it''s about the birth of his child. Other times, it''s for no reason at all. After all, for human women, this age is... demanding.]


    [You don''t refuse her advances, partially because the "Tengu''s Forbidden Sealing Codex" contains techniques for absorbing yin energy to bolster yang, which conveniently aligns with these encounters.]


    [Perhaps out of guilt, you make an effort to ensure she feels satisfied afterward.]


    ---


    [Age 38: On an otherwise ordinary day, you finally unleash the "Crow Tengu Deathfeather Strike," shattering the barrierpletely.]


    [After ten years of relentless effort, the barrier is no more. Your hair has turned white with age, yet instead of tion, you feel only calm.]


    [You take time to bid farewell to the tengu n, especially Reizenbou and Teruyo, who had cared for you. With Miko and a small bundle of belongings, you ascend the long staircase to the Grand Narukami Shrine.]


    [This time, you are determined. No matter what, you won''t leave without Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [In the past decade, the entire shrine had grown ustomed to your challenges against the barrier. Rather than hostility, you''re met with kind smiles and even congrattions from the shrine maidens.]


    [It''s as if the barrier was never meant to stop you, but to test you.]


    [When you step into the shrine, Kitsune Saiguu is already waiting. Her beauty remains untouched by time, while your temples bear the marks of the years.]


    [There is no awkward reunion, no tearful exchange. It feels as though you''re simply a husband returning home for dinner. With a soft smile, she says, "You''re here." The weight of a decade''s hardship lifts in an instant.]


    [You don''t me her. Over these ten years, you''ve seen Inazuma''s turmoil. You no longer selfishly wish to take her away. Instead, you vow to stand by her side, helping her face the cmities threatening thisnd.]


    [Breaking her barrier was proof enough of your resolve.]


    ---


    [Age 39: Together with Kitsune Saiguu, you beginbating the cmities guing Inazuma. Even she is astounded by your newfound power. Of course, you don''t mention the forbidden methods that brought you here.]


    [Though your strength stillgs behind hers, you''ve be a vital ally in the fight.]


    [After each life-or-death battle, you return to the shrine¡ªor another secluded spot¡ªto fight your own private battles, a release of tension and exhaustion.]


    [Despite your efforts to conceal these encounters, Miko''s keen nose often catches you in the act. Sometimes, she even cheekily requests to join.]


    [Surprisingly, Kitsune Saiguu never objects, yfully saying, "Why not let her try?" Naturally, you refuse every time.]


    [To you, Miko is neither a lover nor a daughter. She''s... a pet. And doing such things with a pet is unthinkable.]


    ---


    [Age 40: You believed your efforts would eventually purge Inazuma of its cmities. But you underestimated their tenacity. Like a tide of ck water, they seep into everything, even corrupting the minds of humans and yokai alike.]


    [During one mission, you encounter an old acquaintance: Takamine The Mistsplitter. Now a mindless monster consumed by corruption, even his once-prized de, the "Mistsplitter Reforged," lies shattered.]


    [The two of you engage in a fierce battle. Corrupted, Takamine''s power surpasses even his former self. His grudge against you for "stealing" Hibiki fuels his relentless assault.]


    [Despite your best efforts, human limits begin to take their toll.]


    [Just as Takamine closes in for the final blow, a lightning-charged arrow pierces his heart. Hibiki, wielding the bow he once gifted her, ends his suffering with the very skills he had taught her.]


    [Takamine''s clouded eyes seemed to regain a fleeting rity as Hibiki appeared. Yet what awaited him was a merciless second arrow.]


    [The treasured bow in her hands, <i>Thundering Pulse</i>, was something Takamine had left at her door before his departure. Despite their estrangement and vow to never cross paths again, he still sought to protect Hibiki in his own way.]


    [The arrow''s whistle carried a mournful cry. Infused with anti-evil energy, paired with Hibiki''s peerless archery and the bow''s extraordinary power, it instantly brought down the corrupted Takamine¡ªa foe even you struggled to handle.]


    [The fallen samurai knelt powerlessly. You caught his frail body, which felt as light as air. With trembling hands, he ced his shattered de into yours and whispered faintly, "Take care of her for me." Then, his form dissolved into ck mist, fading into oblivion.]


    <i>[Acquired: </i>Broken Mistsplitter<i>]</i>


    - <i>Broken Mistsplitter </i> - <i>Grade</i>: A


    - <i>Effects</i>:


    1. Grants 40% bonus to all elemental damage.


    2. Dispels mists, toxins, and other incorporeal forms.


    3. Currently inactive due to the weapon''s shattered state.


    - <i>Description</i>: A katana that glimmers with a sorrowful violet hue. Its broken de mirrors its fractured history.


    ---


    [However, Hibiki didn''t give you the chance to care for her. After killing Takamine with her own hands, she left the Grand Narukami Shrine and returned to Asase Shrine on Seirai Ind.]


    [As she departed, you noticed faint wrinkles on her face. Both of you were growing old. For a fleeting moment, you wondered if the oue would have been different had it been Hibiki you loved, instead of Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [Before leaving, Hibiki left you with one final request: to take care of Kitsune Saiguu. Without hesitation, you promised.]


    [But in the end, you failed to protect either Hibiki or Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [The cmities spread further, iming more victims. Even Kitsune Saiguu''s closest allies were affected. Torachiyo, a powerful oni warrior, sumbed to the abyss, losing both her mind and a limb to the Raiden Shogun''s de. The tengu n chief who once taught you resigned in frustration, retreating into seclusion.]


    [Kitsune Saiguu nned to use the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual to purge the cmities'' corruption. But she was toote. Facing an unstoppable darkness, your strength proved woefully inadequate. Just as the void prepared to consume everything, Kitsune Saiguu stepped forward.]


    [She gave everything she had to protect her belovednd. Now, she had made the ultimate decision¡ªto offer her final treasure: her life.]


    <i>"So go on, dark will of abyss. I have no strength left to resist. You may take my Kitsune blood as you please."</i>


    <i>"But even as I stand humbly before you, I ask one thing..."</i>


    <i>"If you see the things I cherished, please spare those innocent lives."</i>


    <i>"And if you grant me one wish, let my evesting memories return to thend I love."</i>


    <i>"May something beautiful stay after your rampage has passed."</i>


    [With those words, Kitsune Saiguu turned to look at you onest time. Then, resolutely, she stepped into the darkness. You screamed and roared, wild with despair, but you could do nothing to stop it.]


    [For the third time, you lost Kitsune Saiguu¡ªonce to salvation, once to duty, and now to fate.]


    [Yet, as if it truly understood her final plea, the dark will dissipated after consuming her.]


    [Inazuma finally saw clear skies, something it had not witnessed in years. Countless points of light scattered from the heavens, and as you caught one in your palm, it formed an image¡ªa weeping boy covering his face.]


    [A silver-haired woman reached out, taking his hand with a smile. "Leaving such a cute child here all alone? How irresponsible."]


    [These lights were fragments of Kitsune Saiguu''s memories, left behind to safeguard thend she loved. Even in death, she continued to protect it in her own way.]


    ---


    [Age 43: Since Kitsune Saiguu''s sacrifice, the cmities had disappeared. Miko had inherited the name "Yae" and risen as the High Priestess of the Grand Narukami Shrine.]


    [She was no longer the little fox that nuzzled into your hand. Now, she had be a capable shrine maiden, managing the shrine''s affairs with precision.]


    [However, among the shrine''s solemn halls, a drunkard wandered aimlessly¡ªa man who never seemed sober. Clutching a gourd of sake, he roamed the shrine grounds, sometimes muttering to himself, sometimesughing or crying.]


    [The senior shrine maidens sighed deeply at the sight, while the neers wondered why such a person was tolerated at the shrine.]


    [No matter how drunk or filthy you became, Yae Miko would always clean you up, bathe you, and ensure you were properly clothed before guiding you to bed.]


    [If not for her lineage as a Kitsune, people might mistake her for your daughter.]


    [Yes, that drunkard was you. Kitsune Saiguu''s death had shattered your spirit. Losing her three times left you without hope. You sought sce in intoxication, living a wasted life. Without Yae Miko''s care, you might have drunk yourself to death long ago.]


    ---


    [Age 44: You hadn''t given up entirely on reviving Kitsune Saiguu, scouring countless texts, including the <i>Tengu''s Forbidden Sealing Codex</i>. But none offered a solution. Worse, her body had been consumed by the ck tide, leaving no remains to restore.]


    [One day, a diplomatic envoy from Liyue visited the Grand Narukami Shrine. She was an extraordinarily beautiful woman, her immense power palpable even through your alcohol-numbed senses. Yae Miko''s Kitsune bloodline seemed muted in her presence.]


    [Her name was Ganyu, a celestial adeptus said to be the qilin incarnate, with a lifespan exceeding three millennia. Even Yae Miko addressed her respectfully as "sister."]


    [You paid her little mind. No beauty could everpare to Kitsune Saiguu in your heart.]


    [Until one day, you saw her perform a miraculous spell, reviving a dying cherry blossom tree.]


    [Suddenly, your drunken haze lifted. If Inazuma offered no path to saving Kitsune Saiguu, why not search beyond its borders? Liyue, with its ancient history, might hold the key!]


    [Immediately, you cleaned yourself up, shaving your unruly beard and donning fresh clothes before visiting Ganyu''s guest quarters. Humbly, you asked for her help in seeking admission to the immortal sects of Liyue.]


    [Despite her lofty status and overwhelming strength, Ganyu was approachable and kind. She didn''t refuse your abrupt request but warned you of the immense difficulty in joining the adepti. Sess would depend on your own determination.]


    [Without hesitation, you agreed. Inazuma now held only one attachment for you: Yae Miko. Over the years, you had quietly noted her unwavering care for you. Yet now, standing before her room, your hand raised to knock, you hesitated.]


    [Entering Immersive Mode.]


    ---


    Author''s Note: Sigh... Anyways


    2 extra Chapters at 400 p.s :)

 Chapter 139: Villain Simulator, Ch 138

    <h4>Chapter 139: Viin Simtor, Ch 138</h4>


    [Quest: Convince Yae Miko]


    A quest?


    Though the conditions forpletion seemed simple, in reality, this was one of the more challenging tasks.


    As if predicting his actions, the door opened on its own before he could knock.


    "What are you standing there for?" Yae Miko asked with a soft smile. "If you''ve got something to say,e in and say it."


    Before him stood Yae Miko, stunningly beautiful yet exuding a dignified aura. While her appearance hadn''t changed much over the years, her demeanor was entirely different.


    Lucas couldn''t help but recall the joke from years past: "She''s just a 148-centimeter, pink-haired, big-breasted, fox-eared girl."


    But now, the "little girl" had matured into a young woman. She''d grown taller, her figure more pronounced, yet her pink hair¡ªand something else¡ªremained the same.


    Lucas''s gaze involuntarily shifted downward, noticing that even <i>there</i>, she had surpassed Kitsune Saiguu.


    "If you want to look, just say so," Yae Miko teased as she poured tea, her smile mischievous. "It''s not like I''d refuse to show you."


    She seemed entirely unbothered by Lucas''s sudden change of demeanor. Reaching out, she touched his chin and remarked, "I still prefer you without a beard."


    "It''s all white now," Lucas replied with a bitter smile. "It makes me look old."


    At just over forty, Lucas''s hair had already turnedpletely silver from stress and sorrow.


    "What''s wrong with aging?" Yae Miko shook her head. "No matter how old you be, you''ll always be my master."


    "I..." Lucas opened his mouth to speak, but the words "I''m leaving" stuck in his throat.


    Perceptive as ever, Yae Miko had already guessed his intentions. Smiling faintly, she said, "You want to apany Sister Ganyu to Liyue to seek the means to save Lady Saiguu, don''t you?"


    Caught off guard, Lucas could only nod silently.


    "Let me ask you," Yae Miko said, her hand brushing his cheek. "What are your chances of sess in joining Liyue''s adepti?"


    "Less than ten percent," Lucas admitted.


    "And the odds of finding a method to revive Lady Saiguu?"


    "Also less than ten percent," Lucas replied, his voice dry.


    "So overall, you have less than a one percent chance of sess," Yae Miko sighed. "And yet, you still insist on going?"


    "Even if it''s one in a thousand, one in ten thousand," Lucas said resolutely, "I must try."


    "Does it have to be Lady Saiguu?" Yae Miko''s voice trembled as she bit her lip. "Can''t I take her ce in your heart? Kyoko, Lady Saiguu, Hibiki... After all these years, shouldn''t it finally be my turn?"


    Lucas hadn''t expected Yae Miko to know about his fleeting rtionship with Hibiki. Stunned, he found himself at a loss for words¡ªuntil a familiar voice broke the silence.


    "Would this be enough?"


    Looking up, Lucas saw a silver-haired, red-eyed fox-eared woman¡ªit was Kitsune Saiguu, the very person he longed to see.


    But of course, he knew better. The fox n was adept at transformation magic, and the figure before him was merely an illusion conjured by Yae Miko.


    "If you wish," Yae Miko said softly, "I could stay like this forever and never change back."


    "But you''re not her," Lucas said, shaking his head. "Miko, trust me¡ªwhether or not I seed in finding the secret, I will return. And when I do... whether it''s the three of us or just the two of us, we will never part again."


    Hearing these words, Yae Miko''s eyes lit up. Her solemn demeanor melted away, and she became the lively little fox of years past.


    For Lucas, this journey was less about reviving Kitsune Saiguu and more about finding closure for himself. No matter the oue, he would have no regrets.


    "What are you waiting for?" Yae Miko eximed, grabbing Lucas''s wrist. "Hurry and pack your things! The sooner you leave, the sooner you''ll be back!"


    "There''s no rush," Lucas chuckled. "Lady Ganyu departs tomorrow, and I''ll apany her to Liyue."


    "Hmph, Sister Ganyu is quite beautiful," Yae Miko teased, raising an eyebrow. "You''re not nning to fall for her, are you?"


    "Don''t be ridiculous," Lucas replied, shaking his head. "I''m just an old man now."


    Though Lucas was only in his forties and the effects of Hakushin''s Spring made him look no older than thirty, his silver hair lent him an air of maturity.


    "So what?" Yae Mikoughed. "Sister Ganyu''s age is dozens of times yours. Whether you''re young or old, I like you just the same."


    Since Kitsune Saiguu''s departure, it had been a long time since Yae Miko smiled so sincerely.


    "Well, I should start packing," Lucas said after chatting with Yae Miko for a while. "We leave tomorrow."


    "Are you going back tonight?" Yae Miko asked softly. "You could pack tomorrow instead."


    Lucas understood her implication immediately. He had made the little fox wait far too long, and promises alone weren''t enough¡ªactions were needed as well.


    "Alright," Lucas said with a wry smile. "But not toote¡ªwe have to wake up early tomorrow."


    "Mm-hmm!" Yae Miko''s tail wagged enthusiastically as she grabbed his hand. "Let''s rest now!"


    "Rest now?" Lucas nced at the still-bright sky outside. "But we haven''t even had dinner yet."


    "That''s okay," Yae Miko said, pulling him closer. "After all, it''ll take at least seven or eight times..."


    <i>Cough, cough.</i> Lucas exaggeratedly cleared his throat. "Maybe I should sleep at home tonight instead."


    Good grief. Seven or eight times? Forget reviving Kitsune Saiguu¡ªhe''d need to figure out how to revive himself first.


    "Just kidding!" Yae Miko quickly blocked the door, worried he might actually leave. From a drawer, she carefully pulled out a small porcin bottle, grinning mischievously. "This is a special elixir I prepared¡ªit''ll keep your energy up!"


    "Never mind whether it works," Lucas said, narrowing his eyes. "Why did you make something like this? Don''t tell me... you''ve been plotting this for a while?"


    "Wh-what are you talking about?" The little fox broke into a nervous sweat, her eyes darting evasively. "It''s just... just because..."


    Lucas took the bottle and casually tossed it aside. Smiling, he said, "I don''t need that, Miko. Let me teach you a saying from Liyue."


    "What saying?" Yae Miko asked, feeling both nervous and curious.


    "''The old are full of vigor,''" Lucas said, flexing his arm as lean muscles bulged.


    Using spells to enhance his physical strength was a trivial task for someone like him.


    "Onest thing," Yae Miko said, steadying her breath. "Do you want me to change back, or stay like this?"


    Yae Miko still maintained her transformation as Kitsune Saiguu. Lucas knew that if he asked, she wouldn''t refuse.


    "No, return to yourself," Lucas said with a gentle smile. "You are you. Kitsune Saiguu is Kitsune Saiguu. You''re not her, and you don''t have to be her."


    [Quest Completed: Convince Yae Miko]


    <strong>[Reward: Character Card - Yae Miko: Boundless Illusions]</strong>


    <strong>[Effect</strong>: Increases the effectiveness of illusion-based skills by 50%.]


    A character card as a reward?


    There had been simr rewards in other parallel worlds, like the character card for <i>Keqing: Thunder Rakshasha</i>. In addition to providing various enhancements, a character card allowed the bearer to teleport near the corresponding character''s location.


    <strong>[Exiting Immersive Mode]</strong>


    <strong>[Entering Text Mode]</strong>


    [You bid farewell to Yae Miko and the Grand Narukami Shrine, embarking on your journey to Liyue alongside Ganyu.]


    [At this time, Inazuma had not yet implemented the Sakoku Decree to close its borders, and the thunderstorms around the inds were far less vtile. With Ganyu apanying you, crossing the sea to the unfamiliarnd of Liyue was a smooth and uneventful journey.]


    [This was your first time leaving your homnd. You had always believed that Inazuma City was the most bustling ce, and Tenshukaku the grandest building. But the city of Liyue left you with a sense of wonder, as if you had spent your life as a frog at the bottom of a well.]


    [Ganyu exined that while Liyue had many adepti, most were reclusive and uninterested in taking disciples. She could introduce you to three adepti, but your sess would depend entirely on your own efforts.]


    [Liyue''s adepti are known as "Three-Eyed Five-Manifestation Immortals." The "three eyes" refer to their mastery of elemental power, with an implied "inner eye" that is hidden from view. The "five manifestations" are abilities granted by Rex Lapis himself.]


    <strong>[The First Adeptus: Cloud Retainer]</strong>


    [Your first destination was the abode of Cloud Retainer, Ganyu''s mentor. To show your sincerity, you brought various gifts for your visit¡ªitems that Yae Miko had specifically urged you to prepare. Concerned you mightck funds, she had sent you off with a selection of rare treasures.]


    [Cloud Retainer, with her original form as a crane, didn''t surprise you much given your years among yokai. She showed little interest in the treasures you brought, but was thoroughly impressed with the culinary offerings.]


    [The two of you hit it off, and Cloud Retainer regaled you with tales of Ganyu''s embarrassing childhood moments, leaving the qilin flustered and red-faced.]


    [Though Cloud Retainer seemed fond of you and even entertained the thought of taking you as a disciple, her expertisey in mechanical arts, which were of no use for your goal. Reluctantly, you had to move on.]


    <strong>[The Second Adeptus: Moon Carver]</strong>


    [The next adeptus was Moon Carver, who, ording to Ganyu, was the kindest of the adepti and most likely to ept you as a disciple.]


    [This time, you cut straight to the point, sharing your story and exining your purpose for crossing the seas. But when Moon Carver learned that your goal was to revive someone, he merely sighed and sent you away, unmoved by your pleas.]


    <strong>[The Third Adeptus: Mountain Shaper]</strong>


    [Your final hopey with Mountain Shaper. While seeking his dwelling in the mountains, you became lost. Fortunately, you encountered a kind-hearted herbalist girl named Qiqi, who guided you to the adeptus'' location. She seemed to recognize you as a seeker of immortal wisdom but warned you that many had tried before and none had seeded.]


    [Thanks to Qiqi''s guidance, you found Mountain Shaper''s sanctuary. Unlike the warm hospitality of Cloud Retainer or the gentle demeanor of Moon Carver, Mountain Shaper was cold and aloof. When you requested apprenticeship, he proposed a grueling test: you were to sit motionless before his abode for seven days and nights. Even the slightest movement would mean failure.]


    [Sitting still for seven days was challenging enough, but doing so without eating or sleeping made it nearly impossible. Even with your extraordinary constitution, it was a formidable trial.]


    [Determined to resurrect Kitsune Saiguu, you epted without hesitation. For days, Mountain Shaper came and went, treating you as if you were nothing more than a stone.]


    [Throughout those seven days, you endured torrential rain, scorching heat, and unrelenting torment without budging an inch.]


    [As the trial entered its final moments, you suddenly heard the distant cries of a young girl pleading for help. You recognized the voice¡ªit was Qiqi.]


    [The cries were heart-wrenching, as if she were being attacked by wild beasts or assants. But with only minutes left in the trial, leaving to help her would mean failing the test.]


    <strong>[You Decide...]</strong>


    <strong>1. Go to her aid.</strong>


    <strong>2. Ignore her cries.</strong>


    After brief consideration, Lucas muttered calmly, "Ignore her."


    <strong>[What a cold-hearted choice~]


    </strong>


    <strong> The system remarked wryly.


    </strong>


    <strong> "This is supposed to be an evil-aligned system, isn''t it?" Lucas replied dryly.


    </strong>


    <strong> [You ignored the cries for help. The voice grew more desperate, piercing your ears like a worm burrowing into your skull. You could almost picture Qiqi''s bloodied form in your mind''s eye.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Still, you remained unmoving. At the exact moment the seven days ended, the cries abruptly ceased.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [The doors to Mountain Shaper''s sanctuary opened slowly. The adeptus, with his crane-like visage devoid of human emotion, emerged, exuding an undeniable aura of majesty.]


    </strong>


    <strong> ["Such ruthlessness," Mountain Shaper said with a hint of mockery. "To ignore a child''s cries for help¡ªis this the type of person I should take as a disciple?"]


    </strong>


    <strong> ["Those cries were but your illusions," you replied evenly. "The rugged paths and abundant Qingxin flowers make it unlikely for someone as familiar with these mountains as Qiqi to meet with harm. Furthermore, this isn''t the first time you''ve tested disciples in this way¡ªoffering them an apparent way out at their breaking point. You are harsh but kind at heart."]


    </strong>


    <strong> ["Clever words!" Mountain Shaper barked, though his tone softened. "Even so, leaving someone to die vites the very principles of immortality."]


    </strong>


    <strong> ["Blind kindness can be more dangerous than malice," you countered calmly. "If Qiqi were truly in danger, I would not have hesitated to help. Since it was merely your illusion, why waste the effort?"]


    </strong>


    <strong> [To your surprise, Mountain Shaperughed. "Interesting. Despite not being a native of Liyue, nor young by mortal standards, you have a certain appeal. Very well¡ªyou may stay."]


    </strong>


    <strong> ["Thank you, Master!" You bowed deeply and eagerly added, "I wish to learn..."]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Before you could finish, Mountain Shaper interrupted coldly. "You have no right to choose what you learn. Liyue''s immortal arts must be studied step by step. I will teach, and you will learn. If you fail, it is my fault. If you seed, it is your merit."]


    </strong>


    <strong> So domineering!


    </strong>


    <strong> If this were a romance game, Mountain Shaper would undoubtedly be the archetypal icy male god.


    </strong>


    <strong> [Age 45: A Year of Training]


    </strong>


    <strong> [A year passed under Mountain Shaper''s tutge, reminding you of your time training under the tengu chief. Yet, the years had taken their toll, and things were no longer as they once were.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Your innate talent and existing skills allowed you to quickly grasp Mountain Shaper''s teachings. You even began tobine his talisman techniques with the sorcery you''d learned before, creating a unique style.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Far from disapproving, Mountain Shaper often offered guidance to refine your innovations. His evaluation? "Though still a sapling, you may one day grow into a towering tree." High praise, given his nature.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Though Mountain Shaper despised disturbances, his barrier permitted animals and a few locals to enter freely. As a result, Qiqi was often the only humanpany you saw throughout the year.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Her innocent and clumsy nature charmed you. Sometimes, you pondered that if life had been kinder, you might already have grandchildren her age.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Qiqi called you "Uncle" instead of "Grandpa" and often brought mountain fruits to share. In turn, you entertained her with simple spells, finding sce in the quietpanionship of an old man and a young girl.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Age 47: A Breakthrough]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Under Mountain Shaper''s guidance, your cultivation advanced rapidly. Not only that, but your newly developed techniques began to form a cohesive system.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Mountain Shaper remarked that your work resembled the long-lost art of "Onmyoudo," a synthesis of Liyue''s immortal arts and Inazuma''s sorcery. In recognition of your achievement, he named the style after this ancient discipline.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Age 48: Three years passed in training. Qiqi had grown taller, but your efforts to find a way to revive Kitsune Saiguu remained fruitless. Frustration gnawed at you, but Mountain Shaper refused to answer your inquiries about resurrection arts.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Age 49]


    </strong>


    <strong> [To your horror, the cmity that had consumed Kitsune Saiguu began to stir in Liyue. As more demons and foul creatures emerged, chaos erupted. One day, the conflict escted into a massive battle on Mt. Ho, and you joined Mountain Shaper in the fight.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Tragically, amidst the sh, a young herbalist stumbled onto the battlefield and was caught in the crossfire. She was none other than Qiqi.]


    </strong>


    <strong> [Her small formy lifeless, crushed under the weight of a cruel and senseless fate.]


    </strong>


    <strong> ----


    </strong>


    <strong> Author''s Note: Well take this extra Chapter!


    </strong>


    <strong> Goal remains the same for the next two!</strong><strong>                </strong>

 Chapter 140: Villain Simulator, Ch 139

    <h4>Chapter 140: Viin Simtor, Ch 139</h4>


    [In a sh, your fury ignited an immense surge of potential. Channeling your Onmyoudo techniques, talismans flew forth, obliterating the remaining demons. Even seasoned adepti couldn''t help but marvel at the sudden eruption of your power.]


    [Yet, it was toote for Qiqi, whose lifeless bodyy cold before you. Despite using every technique you had mastered, you could not bring her back. Desperately, you pleaded with the adepti for a method to resurrect her, and for a moment, their resolve faltered.]


    ["Qiqi died because of you," you said, your voice sharp and unyielding. "And now, you stand by and do nothing? Is this the path of immortality you im to follow?"]


    [Finally, Mountain Shaper broke the silence. "There is a method," he said. "A dangerous one, known as the Forbidden Art of Soul Revival. In this dire circumstance, I suggest we each contribute a wisp of immortal energy to the girl. It may grant her a second chance."]


    [The adepti exchanged hesitant nces. Though reluctant, theirpassion won over as they looked upon Qiqi''s pitiful form. Each contributed a wisp of immortal energy, infusing it into the girl''s body. Her pale cheeks grew rosy once more, and a flicker of hope lit up your face.]


    [This was it¡ªthe resurrection technique you had dreamed of. Now, it was within reach.]


    [Before long, Qiqi''s eyes opened, but instead of gratitude or joy, she erupted in uncontroble chaos. Overwhelmed by the immense power of thebined immortal energies, she fell into a state of violent frenzy.]


    [Though each adeptus had only given a small fraction of their energy, the resulting force was far beyond what Qiqi''s body could handle. As she rampaged, the adepti were forced to suppress her. Mountain Shaper ultimately sealed her within amber, rendering her frozen in time.]


    [The crisis was resolved for now, but the Forbidden Art of Soul Revival consumed your thoughts. You begged Mountain Shaper to teach it to you, but he refused without hesitation.]


    [One day, while Mountain Shaper was away on a journey, he forgot to lock his library. You decided...]


    1. To investigate.


    2. To refrain.


    "There may never be another chance," Lucas thought grimly. Despite suspecting a trap, he steeled himself. "Investigate!"


    [You snuck into your master''s library. After a thorough search, you uncovered a hidden scroll sealed away¡ªit was none other than the Forbidden Art of Soul Revival. Before you could finish reading, Mountain Shaper appeared behind you.]


    ["How dare you study forbidden arts behind my back!" Mountain Shaper''s voice thundered as he issued your expulsion. "From this day forth, you are no longer my disciple. Leave and never return!"]


    ["I only wished to use this technique to save someone I loved! How is that wrong?" you protested. "I came under your tutge solely to learn this art!"]


    ["You''ve already seen the consequences of using the Forbidden Art," Mountain Shaper sighed heavily. "Even if you revive someone, it could turn them into a dangerous monster. This is why no adeptus will teach it. You''ve fallen into the path of obsession, and I can no longer guide you. Leave."]


    [Understanding there was no way to sway him, you bowed deeply three times to his retreating figure. Then, you went to the amber where Qiqi was sealed and sat in silence for a long time. You promised her you would one day lift the seal, then departed quietly.]


    [Age 50: Returning to Inazuma]


    [You returned to Inazuma to find that the cmity, temporarily quelled by Kitsune Saiguu''s sacrifice, had resurfaced, wreaking havoc once more. However, with the Onmyoudo you mastered, you became a beacon of hope, driving back the tide repeatedly.]


    [Naturally, no one was happier about your return than Yae Miko. Delighted by your progress, she epted your exnation that you had learned a resurrection technique but needed significant time to prepare.]


    ["Time is the least of my concerns," she said with a serene smile. "I can wait."]


    [Leaving the Grand Narukami Shrine, you made your way to Inazuma and requested an audience at Tenshukaku. By now, you were well aware that the purple-haired woman who had apanied Kitsune Saiguu to the festival years ago was none other than Raiden Ei, whom Kitsune Saiguu named Shogun.]


    [Inazuma was again in turmoil, its people suffering. With the loss of many loyal allies, Raiden Ei''s rule was crippled. You assured her that the immortal arts you learned in Liyue could vanquish the cmity. In return, you asked her to fulfill her old promise.]


    ["What is your wish?" Raiden Ei asked, impressed by your strength and sincerity.]


    ["I wish for power¡ªone rank below the Gods, and above all others," you dered. "Only with unrestrained authority can I eliminate the cmity."]


    [Perhaps out of nostalgia for her childhood, or her trust in Kitsune Saiguu''s judgment, Raiden Ei granted your request. She bestowed upon you the surname "Only-God," symbolizing a rank second only to the gods themselves.]


    [Age 51: Founding the Onmyou Bureau]


    [You solidified your position within the Shogunate, earning widespread fame as you repeatedly dispelled the cmity. Dering yourself Inazuma''s first "Onmyouji," you founded the Onmyou Bureau, an institution dedicated to training others in Onmyoudo tobat the cmity.]


    [The Bureau quickly attracted countless aspirants, eager to study under your guidance.]


    [Age 54: In just three years, you trained a legion of skilled Onmyouji, who became instrumental in battling the cmity. Your name became synonymous with hope in Inazuma, while Raiden Ei receded from public view.]


    [Yet, your hidden ambitions began to surface. You imed the cmity hadn''t been fully eradicated but was instead parasitizing yokai across thend. To rid Inazuma of its blight, you argued, all yokai must be subdued.]


    [In truth, this was your excuse to harvest yokai energy. Without ess to immortal energy, you nned to substitute it with yokai energy,pensating with sheer volume. Where one adeptus required a mere fraction of their power, you would drain entire legions of yokai dry.]


    [Your actions shattered the delicate bnce between humans and yokai in Inazuma, inciting chaos. Despite some dissent, you dered fox yokai exempt, citing their immunity to the cmity due to the Kitsune bloodline.]


    [Privately, you knew resurrecting Kitsune Saiguu, with her immense spiritual power, required an unfathomable amount of energy. Even the hundreds of yokai you harvested were but a drop in the ocean.]


    [To keep Raiden Ei from interfering, you advised her to pursue eternity by creating a puppet to house her consciousness. Trusting you implicitly, she followed your suggestion.]


    [Age 55: Raiden Eipleted her first puppet but deemed it wed. Before she could destroy it, you volunteered to repurpose it as a weapon against the cmity. Though hesitant, she agreed.]


    [In secret, you modified the puppet to resemble Kitsune Saiguu. To resurrect her, you needed three things: sufficient yokai energy, a suitable vessel, and her scattered memories.]


    [With the puppet serving as the vessel, you poured all the yokai energy you had gathered into it, activating the Forbidden Art of Soul Revival.]


    [Miraculously, the puppet awakened. Unlike Qiqi, it didn''t sumb to madness, but it was an empty shell¡ªalive but soulless. You now faced your next challenge: collecting Kitsune Saiguu''s scattered memories.]


    [Her memories, transformed into fragments of light, were scattered across Inazuma upon her death. The more fragments you gathered, the moreplete she would be.]


    [Age 56: The Yokai Hunt Begins]


    [You submitted a formal request to Raiden Ei, urging her to intensify efforts to subdue yokai across Inazuma. By this point, she hade to trust youpletely, and her preupation with creating her puppet left her little time for governance. Thus, she approved your proposal without hesitation.]


    [Under Raiden Ei''s authority, you proimed the "Yokai Hunt Decree," a mandate to exterminate all yokai except for fox yokai. Your justification was simple: to root out the cmity hiding within yokai.]


    [This decree shattered the already fragile rtionship between humans and yokai. While smaller-scale hunts had been grudgingly tolerated, the Yokai Hunt Decree amounted to outright war. Battles erupted across Inazuma as yokai rose up in rebellion, branding you a corrupt minister and vowing to "purge the court of treachery."]


    [But this conflict served your purpose. War allowed you to harvest massive quantities of yokai energy in a short time, a goal unattainable through normal means.]


    [However, you underestimated the yokai''s strength. While your Onmyouji were formidable, the scale of warfare revealed their limitations. In battle, conventional soldiers still bore the brunt of the fighting.]


    [Age 57: The Cracks in Power]


    [The prolonged conflict began to expose the weaknesses in your strategy. Though the yokai suffered heavy losses, the toll on the Shogunate''s forces was immense. The Tenryou Commission''s troops, despite their superior numbers, struggled to keep pace with the yokai''s individual strength. Prolonged attrition threatened to tip the bnce.]


    [Meanwhile, Raiden Ei''s growing istion worked to your advantage. She spent her days refining her puppet and retreating further into her "Eternity" philosophy, leaving Inazuma''s governance entirely in your hands.]


    [Yet, whispers of dissent began to spread. Some questioned your motives, while others viewed the Yokai Hunt as a veiled vendetta. Yae Miko herself approached you, asking why you insisted on continuing this campaign.]


    [You reassured her, iming it was all to revive Kitsune Saiguu. Miko''s lingering hope for that future swayed her to remain silent, though she urged you to minimize unnecessary bloodshed.]


    [Age 58: The "Raiden Shogun" Is Born]


    [Raiden Ei seeded in creating a perfected puppet, naming it the "Raiden Shogun." To preserve it, she withdrew entirely into her "ne of Euthymia," a world inside Raiden Ei''s mind, where her consciousness currently resided after she discarded her physical form. Her absence left Inazuma firmly under your control.]


    [Inspired by Raiden Ei''s creation, you devised your own mystical training grounds using Onmyoudo. Dubbed the "Shadow Bureau," this realm slowed the passage of time, allowing soldiers and Onmyouji to undergo rigorous training in mere days. Within a year, these enhanced forces turned the tide of war against the yokai.]


    [Age 59: Your Shadow Bureau-trained soldiers decimated the yokai forces, solidifying the Shogunate''s dominance. Among the captured and in yokai, you asionally recognized faces from your childhoodpanions from the summer festival long ago.]


    [But when you met them again, they were no longer friends. You were their executioner. Their pleas, curses, and tears fell on deaf ears. Though guilt wed at your heart, you pressed on. You had sacrificed too much to falter now. This path was a one-way road.]


    [Age 60: The First Yokai n Falls]


    [The war culminated in the extermination of the tanuki n, the weakest of Inazuma''s four great yokai ns. Their leader was captured and brought before you.]


    [Among the captured yokai was your old acquaintance, the tanuki elder Ioroi. He had been one of Kitsune Saiguu''s closest friends. Decades earlier, he had wagered with her that he could sneak into Tenshukaku and steal Naru Weed, a rare nt that only grew near Raiden Ei''s residence. He scattered its seeds across Inazuma, making the once-exclusive nt amon sight.]


    [When Raiden Ei captured him in a fit of fury, Kitsune Saiguu interceded and saved his life,ter appointing him as a guardian of Chinju Forest.]


    [After you issued the Yokai Hunt Decree, many yokai who had once coexisted with humans turned against them. Ioroi was no exception.]


    [Upon seeing you, Ioroi immediately recognized you. His voice was filled with fury as he berated you for your betrayal. Your disciples moved to silence him, but you waved them away, instructing them to stand down.]


    [Ioroi angrily dered that Kitsune Saiguu would never forgive your actions if she were still alive. With a calm but somber expression, you told him the truth: Kitsune Saiguu had perished fighting the Cmity.]


    [You recounted the events of that day to Ioroi. Kitsune Saiguu had sought him out in Chinju Forest, suggesting a game of hide-and-seek to keep him out of danger. Ioroi, everpetitive, eagerly agreed. But no matter how long he waited, Kitsune Saiguu never returned.]


    [Upon learning the truth, Ioroi was devastated. Still, he questioned your methods, asking why you would ughter so many yokai.]


    ["Everything I''ve done is to bring Kitsune Saiguu back," you replied with a rare smile. "You must miss her too, don''t you?"]


    [Ioroi nodded silently. You patted his head gently and whispered, "Then forgive me, my friend, for sacrificing you as well."]


    [A Soul-Binding Talisman appeared in your hand and stuck to Ioroi. Despite his resistance, his immense tanuki power was no match for the talisman''s sealing force.]


    [As his life faded, Ioroi released his clenched paw, scattering crystalline fragments on the ground¡ªthe remnants of Kitsune Saiguu''s memories, left behind in Chinju Forest.]


    [Perhaps Ioroi had known the truth all along but chose to deceive himself, clinging to the hope that one day, Kitsune Saiguu might return to him with her yful smile and dere, "I found you. You lose!"]


    [A Step Closer to Resurrection]


    [You infused Ioroi''s yokai energy and the memory fragments into the Kitsune Saiguu puppet. The immense power granted the puppet the ability to stand. It even spoke for the first time, muttering fragments like "Ioroi" and "hide-and-seek."]


    [This breakthrough confirmed your belief: with enough energy and memory fragments, Kitsune Saiguu could be fully restored.]


    [With Raiden Ei secluded in her ne of Euthymia, you effectively became Inazuma''s de facto ruler. Your authority surpassed even the Three Commissions, solidifying your position as Raiden''s regent.]


    [The tanuki n, weakened after Ioroi''s death, was swiftly eradicated. The tengu and oni ns, fearing a simr fate, began consolidating their forces in preparation for war.]


    [Among the oni n''s champions was Torachiyo, known as "Chiyo the Tiger." She had once been a loyal ally of Raiden Ei but was corrupted by the Abyss and swallowed whole by a "beast of sin" and while inside its stomach, was tainted by the darkness. Even though she managed to rip the beast apart and y it, she was forever changed.]


    [Later she turned her de on Ei, after which she was defeated and badly injured. After losing an arm in her rebellion, she fled, leaving her son, Mikoshi Michihiro, to abandon his lineage in shame. Her adopted son, Mikoshi Nagamasa, remained loyal to the Shogunate, vowing to redeem the n''s honor.]


    [Unexpectedly, Mikoshi Michihiro had been hiding in Konda Vige all along. As Torachiyo''s biological son, he held significant influence among the oni n. Moreover, he shared a close rtionship, both as a mentor and a friend, with the tengu n''s current chief, Teruyo.]


    [In response to the Yokai Hunting Decree, the oni and tengu ns formed an alliance, while the kitsune n, under Yae Miko''s guidance, remained neutral.]


    [The war finally broke out. Teruyo of the tengu n and Mikoshi Michihiro united other yokai tribes to form the "Anti-Yokai Hunting Alliance," officially dering war on the Shogunate army.]


    [Age 64: The war dragged on for three years, with both sides experiencing victories and losses. The Shogunate army and the yokai coalition finally shed in the decisive battle at Byakko ins. The yokai forces were led by Teruyo, while the Shogunate army wasmanded by you¡ªKamuna Harunosuke.]


    [Once a savior to some of your adversaries, you were now their sworn enemy. The irony of fate was not lost on you, but there was no turning back.]


    [This battle was monumental, with over fifty thousand yokai soldiers in the coalition. While the Shogunate army had the numerical advantage, they stillgged behind in individualbat capabilities.]


    [The yokai coalition''s first move was sending their vanguard, Mikoshi Michihiro, into battle. Through rigorous training with Teruyo, Mikoshi Michihiro''s swordsmanship had reached new heights, earning him the surname "<strong>Iwakura</strong>." His signature move, "Tengu Sweeper," was said to strike down even airborne tengu.]


    [Inazuman warfare traditionally began with duels between generals. While the oue of these duels rarely determined the overall battle, they often had a profound impact on morale. The sheer presence of an extraordinary warrior could sometimes cause the enemy to crumble without a fight.]


    [Iwakura Michihiro, with unmatched strength, defeated several of your elitemanders. These warriors, trained in the "Shadow Bureau," were no match for the oni swordsman, causing a severe blow to your army''s morale.]


    [Yet, you remained calm in themand tent and sent out a prearranged challenger.]


    [Upon seeing his next opponent, the once confident Iwakura Michihiro showed a rare moment of shock¡ªit was none other than Mikoshi Nagamasa!]


    [Nagamasa, the adoptive son of Torachiyo and Iwakura Michihiro''s younger brother by bond, had served the Shogunate to restore their family''s honor. Before the battle, you promised Nagamasa that if he could defeat his rebellious elder brother, you would restore the Mikoshi n''s status in Inazuma.]


    [Once inseparable brothers, they were now forced into mortalbat by your machinations.]


    [As a human, Mikoshi Nagamasa was no match for the swordsmanship of the oni Iwakura Michihiro. Within a dozen exchanges, Nagamasa began to falter, just as he always had against his elder brother.]


    [You had anticipated this oue from the beginning.]


    [However, Iwakura Michihiro, as the elder brother, could not bring himself to deliver a killing blow. Nagamasa, though outmatched, shouted furiously, using Iwakura Michihiro of dishonoring their family and following their mother''s path of darkness.]


    ["Kill me!" Nagamasa roared. "After all, you already killed your own mother. What''s an adopted brother like me to you?"]


    [Iwakura Michihiro was visibly shaken by the usation, leaving him open. Nagamasa seized the opportunity, plunging his self-forged de, "Daitatara Nagamasa," deep into Iwakura Michihiro''s chest. While Nagamasa''s skills couldn''t match his brother''s, his mastery in forging made his des unparalleled¡ªeven among yokai.]


    [As Iwakura Michihiro instinctively raised his weapon to use his famed "Tengu Sweeper" for a final, mutual strike, he hesitated upon seeing the tear-filled eyes of his younger brother. With a bitter smile, the once-renowned oni swordsman known as "Iwakura" fell.]


    [Iwakura Michihiro''s ying of his mother, Torachiyo, had been a closely guarded secret. But you had learned of it through the myriad paper familiars scattered across Inazuma, acting as your spies. You shared this secret with Nagamasa, ensuring this oue.]


    [The tragic fratricide unfolded just as you nned. With Iwakura Michihiro''s death, the yokai coalition fell into chaos. Teruyo, a close friend of Iwakura Michihiro, suppressed her sorrow and rallied the yokai forces for a desperate assault on the Shogunate army.]


    [Though the yokai coalition''s fifty thousand troops were formidable, they quickly realized the Shogunate soldiers were unnaturally fearless and imbued with enhanced strength and speed.]


    [Furthermore, even without Visions, their weapons carried elemental energy, devastating against yokai.]


    [These enhancements were your creation. Using Onmy¨­d¨­ techniques, you crafted two types of talismans: the "Strength Talisman," which greatly boosted physical capabilities, and the "Divine Weapon Talisman," which imbued weapons with elemental power.]


    [Of course, this power came at a price. The soldiers using these talismans consumed their own life force in exchange.]


    [But for you, who had long abandoned scruples, any sacrifice¡ªeven your own¡ªwas worth reviving Kitsune Saiguu.]


    ---


    Author''s Note: We did not reach 400... Tch no extra Chapters for you!

 Chapter 141: Villain Simulator, Ch 140

    <h4>Chapter 141: Viin Simtor, Ch 140</h4>


    [This was thergest battle Inazuma had seen in centuries. The blood of yokai and humans alike dyed the fields and streams of Byakko ins red, earning it the name "The Battle of Crimson Fox ins."]


    [The fighting raged on for three days and two nights, leaving both sides gravely weakened. However, you paid no heed to the losses, focusing instead on harvesting the yokai energy from the fallen.]


    [ording to your calctions, the energy from 50,000 yokai should have been enough to revive Kitsune Saiguu. Yet, as more yokai fell, you realized with growing rm that the required energy was still far out of reach.]


    [Using yokai energy for the Forbidden Art of Soul Revival was inherently inefficient. Unlike the pure immortal energy of adepti, yokai energy degraded significantly during the conversion process. This meant reviving Kitsune Saiguu would demand a staggering, almost iprehensible number of sacrifices.]


    [Even if you exterminated the remaining yokai, it would be insufficient to achieve your goal. Wiping them out entirely would spell the end of the yokai as a race, making any future attempts to gather energy impossible.]


    [Anticipating this potential oue, you dered a sudden ceasefire. By then, the yokai forces had been reduced to just over 10,000. Facing the brink of defeat, the abrupt cessation of hostilities left them bewildered.]


    [Amplifying your voice with a "Resonance Talisman," you addressed the entire yokai army. You dered that the war could end, and the Yokai Hunt Decree could be rescinded, but only if the yokai agreed to three conditions:]


    [1. All yokai must register with the Onmyou Bureau and be bound with talismans to restrict their energy.]


    [2. Each year, 100 of the strongest yokai would be selected to absorb cmity miasma and subsequently sacrificed to contain the corruption.]


    [3. The yokai coalition''s leader, Tengu Teruyo, must surrender herself and pay with her life.]


    [You presented yourself as a magnanimous savior, iming that while you could have annihted the yokai, you chose instead to preserve their race at great personal effort. Whether to ept this "righteous" offer or face extinction was up to them.]


    [Your ultimatum sparked intense debate among the surviving yokai. Some preferred to die standing, while others, concerned for their families and future generations, sought peace. With neither side able to reach consensus, all eyes turned to Teruyo, the coalition''s leader, to cast the deciding vote.]


    [After a long silence, Teruyo sighed deeply and spoke. "None of us fear death. If we die, so be it. But if we perish today, the yokai race will be no more. Let us endure for now, bide our time, and wait for an opportunity. Kamuna Harunosuke may be strong, but he is still only human. When he passes, our descendants will rise to reim our honor."]


    [With that, Teruyo summoned her subordinates to bind her with ropes and deliver her to Kamuna Harunosuke.]


    [Teruyo''s decision to surrender was not out of fear of death but her inability to bear the responsibility of the yokai''s extinction.]


    [An hourter, Teruyo was brought to yourmand tent. Seeing her once-familiar face now bound in defeat, you couldn''t help but feel a twinge of mncholy.]


    [Entering Immersive Mode.]


    [<strong>Mission:</strong> Deal with Tengu Teruyo.]


    [<strong>Reward:</strong> Dependent on oue.]


    [Bound tightly before you, the tengu maiden''s defiance reminded you of decades past when you first ventured to Yashiori Ind.]


    [Back then, you had waited for days outside the Grand Narukami Shrine, hoping to meet Kitsune Saiguu, only to copse from exhaustion. It was Teruyo who saved you, nursing you back to health.]


    [Her eyes had been pure and bright then, but now they were clouded with hatred.]


    ["It''s been a long time," you said with a faint smile. "I''m sorry we''re meeting again like this."]


    ["Spare me your empty words," Teruyo replied coldly. "I only regret saving a thankless wretch like you."]


    [Her bitterness was warranted. You had betrayed those who once considered you a friend. Mikoshi Michihiro might have been killed by his brother''s hand, but it was your orchestration that led to his demise.]


    [Aside from hatred, Teruyo felt nothing for you now.]


    ["We all act in pursuit of our own goals," you said indifferently, having grown numb to such usations. "I never intended to kill you, but as the leader of a rebellion, your survival would incite further unrest."]


    [Despite her defiance, you harbored no desire to kill Teruyo. Her immense tengu power was valuable, but not essential to your ns. More importantly, she was once a trusted ally¡ªperhaps even a friend.]


    ["What is it you''re really after?" Teruyo asked, her voice tinged with despair. "The Kamuna Harunosuke I knew would never do this."]


    [To her, you had once been a kind and gentle soul. The cold, calcting man before her was unrecognizable.]


    ["If our roles were reversed, you''d make the same choices," you replied without emotion. "I don''t need you to understand me. I''ve long given up seeking anyone''s understanding."]


    ["Then kill me," she said firmly. "A defeated leader has no right to live."]


    ["I won''t kill you," you replied, shaking your head. "As the daughter of Reizenbou, you possess the purest power of the tengu race. Killing you would be a waste."]


    ["What are you nning?" she demanded, her expression betraying a mix of fear and anger.]


    ["I will make you my shikigami," you said with a thin smile. "Your power will serve me."]


    ["Never!" she spat. "I would rather die than bow to you."]


    ["You know my methods," you said calmly. "I only need your body. Your memories? I''ll erase them all."]


    [Chanting softly, you cast a spell. The ropes binding Teruyo fell away as her garments disintegrated into countless fragments.]


    [Her figure remained as pristine as it had been decades ago, unmarred by time or war.]


    ["W-what are you doing?" she stammered, her face flushing crimson.]


    ["To perform the Memory Seal Ritual, I must extract a maiden''s purest blood," you exined gently, stroking her cheek. "I''m surprised you''ve kept yourself untouched all these years."]


    [In truth, Teruyo had harbored feelings for you long ago. But the years had turned that affection into bitter regret.]


    ["I hate you," she whispered, tears streaming down her face.]


    [Years ago, she had dreamed of moments like this, but not under such circumstances. Those dreams were now cruelly twisted.]


    [Mission Complete: Deal with Tengu Teruyo.]


    [<strong>Reward:</strong> Skill unlocked: <strong>Secret Sword: Tengu Sweeper.</strong>]


    <strong>[Grade:</strong> A]


    <strong>[Effect:</strong> Damage and uracy scale with the user''s "Mental" attribute. The faster the target moves, the greater the destructive force.]


    <strong>[Description:</strong> A secret art of the Iwakura style, said to rival the Raiden Shogun''s Musou no Hitotachi in power. Capable of striking down even a flying tengu.]


    [Age 65: After years of brutal conflict, the war ended with the decisive "Battle of Crimson Fox ins." The deaths of one yokai general and the capture of another cemented your victory, earning you unparalleled des as the Shogunate''s greatestmander.]


    [The treaty you enacted,ter known as the "Yokai Sacrifice Pact," ensured the survival of the yokai race but fundamentally altered Inazuma''s bnce of power.]


    [Gone were the days of equality between humans and yokai. Humans now ruled supreme, while the yokai¡ªprimarily the tengu and oni ns¡ªwere forced to register with the Onmyou Bureau and confined to designated areas. Only a select few yokai were permitted to reside in major cities.]


    [The fox yokai, however, were exempt. You used your influence to exalt Kitsune Saiguu''s sacrifice, transforming her into a revered figure among the people and a symbol of nobility for her kind.]


    [Over the following months, Teruyo underwent a "Memory Seal Ritual." Her past was erased, and using Onmyoudo, you imnted new memories.]


    [For you, it was a simple task. Under your control, Teruyo''s history was rewritten, her loyalty redirected entirely to you.]


    [She had once been an ordinary tengu girl,ter exiled from her n over a minor mistake.]


    [With nowhere else to go, she wandered to Inazuma, where her exceptional swordsmanship earned her entry into the Tenryou Commission. There, she caught the eye of Kamuna Harunosuke, head of the Onmyou Bureau, and was chosen as his personal guard.]


    [During the Battle of Crimson Fox ins, she was gravely wounded while protecting Harunosuke. Unable to bear her death, Harunosuke turned her into his shikigami so she could remain by his side.]


    [Of course, "Teruyo" had to be executed publicly as a symbolic punishment for leading the yokai rebellion. She was to be beheaded in the bustling market square of Inazuma.]


    [You, however, had a hundred ways to orchestrate a convincing execution. You created a lifelike puppet infused with a portion of Teruyo''s yokai energy, capable of limited movement¡ªenough to deceive onlookers.]


    [Mikoshi Nagamasa personally requested to serve as the executioner. Ostensibly, it was to sever all ties with his rebellious brother, but you knew the truth. He simply wished to grant his brother''s friend a death free of suffering and disgrace.]


    [Of course, Nagamasa had no idea that the head he severed belonged only to an unfeeling puppet.]


    [On the day of Teruyo''s "execution," a small band of thirteen former yokai coalition members attempted a daring rescue.]


    [But unlike the dramatic rescues of novels, their effort in the heavily guarded execution site ended in failure, and they were all apprehended.]


    [You, however, chose not to drain their yokai energy. Instead, you used Onmyoudo to transform them into your shikigami.]


    [You had resolved to wage a long and methodical campaign to gather the energy needed to resurrect Kitsune Saiguu. It might take decades, even centuries. To aplish this, you couldn''t rely solely on human subordinates¡ªyou needed yokai allies.]


    [The number of shikigami an onmyouji couldmand depended on their mastery of Onmyoudo and spiritual power. While most onmyouji could manage only one or two shikigami, your capacity was virtually limitless.]


    [Using these thirteen as a foundation, you established a direct unit of shikigami called the "Hyakki Squad." Their primary mission was to gather the scattered memory fragments of Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [Age 66: The First Sacrifice]


    [The first yokai sacrifice ritual began. You selected one hundred of the strongest yokai and channeled the so-called "cmity miasma" into their bodies.]


    [This served two purposes. First, it systematically weakened the yokai by eliminating their strongest members, reducing the likelihood of future rebellion.]


    [Second, the most powerful yokai possessed abundant energy, making them ideal "nourishment" for reviving Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [Through years of observation, you had learned an important lesson: even the oppressed must be given a sliver of hope. If they saw certain death as inevitable, they would rebel with reckless abandon.]


    [Thus, you established a rule. In a disy of the Shogun''s mercy, the annual sacrifices would take the form of a survival tournament. Thest yokai standing would not only be spared but also exempt from sacrifice for the next ten years.]


    [This dramatically reduced the likelihood of widespread rebellion. After all, the chance of survival in the tournament was far greater than the slim odds of overthrowing the Shogunate.]


    [Yokai, inherently drawn to strength, were not repelled by this system. Instead, it awakened their bloodlust andpetitive spirit.]


    [Using talismans, you projected a live broadcast of the battles for all to see. Initially, the broadcasts were meant to demonstratew and order, but to your surprise, the spectacle captivated audiences.]


    [Seeing an opportunity, you decided to make these annual events a regr urrence, broadcasting them to generate additional revenue. Over time, the yokai sacrifice ritual, now called the "Night of Yokai," evolved into one of Inazuma''s most prominent festivals.]


    [Age 67: Though nearly seventy years old, your body showed no signs of aging. Your appearance remained that of a man in his forties.]


    [This anomaly raised little suspicion. With your mastery of Onmyoudo, maintaining a youthful appearance was considered a trivial feat. Moreover, in the eyes of Inazuma''s people, you had already achieved near-mythical status.]


    [To the citizens of Inazuma, you were a legendary figure, akin to Shogun herself. Mentioning the name "Kamuna Harunosuke" would elicit nothing but reverence and admiration.]


    [Meanwhile, Yae Miko frequently visited you at the Onmyou Bureau, offering various excuses to spend time together.]


    [Her visits also served as a rare reprieve from your heavy responsibilities. She often "tested" your stamina during these moments, bringing levity to your otherwise grueling schedule.]


    [Each year, she spent the Summer Fire Festival with you, a tradition now expanded to include the Night of Yokai.]


    [To make this year''s event more exciting, you invited Yae Miko to assist with its organization. Her contributions added significant ir, including an expanded battlefield, strategically ced weapons, and traps to enhance unpredictability.]


    [On the night of the event, you and Yae Miko monitored the tournament from the central chamber of the Onmyou Bureau.]


    [Entering Immersive Mode.]


    "You''re not what you used to be."


    The pink-haired foxzily pulled on her white knee-high socks, her flushed cheeks hinting at lingering aftereffects from an earlier "battle." Her sly smile carried a teasing edge. "Back then, I''d still be unable to get out of bed by now."


    "You''ve just grown stronger," Lucas replied with a self-deprecating chuckle. "Besides, I''m old now, past my prime."


    Of course, his youthful face and well-defined physique betrayed no signs of age.


    "Oh, stop it," Yae Miko cooed, wrapping her arms around his chest from behind. "Don''t get all grumpy, you stubborn old man."


    Her affectionate nickname, "stubborn old man," was clearly yful. Yae Miko''s love for him had never been tied to age or appearance.


    "Rx," Lucas said with a wry smile, ruffling her fox ears as he always did. "I just want to check on the tournament."


    With a wave of his hand, a talisman activated, conjuring multiple screens that disyed the tournament''s progress. The Night of Yokai was proceeding as nned, channeling the tensions between humans and yokai into internal yokai conflict.


    "Let''s make a bet," Yae Miko whispered into his ear. "Who do you think will win this round?"


    Years of experience had taught Yae Miko to ept what she couldn''t change. Though brutal, this system was preferable to theplete annihtion of the yokai race.


    Now, her loyalty to Lucas was absolute. If he ever sought to overthrow Raiden Shogun, Yae Miko would not only support him but also help him design his banners of rebellion.


    "Interesting," Lucas said. "What''s the wager?"


    "The winner decides..." Yae Miko''s eyes sparkled mischievously. "Who''s on topter tonight."


    Lucas chuckled at her audacity. "I''ll bet on Number 41."


    Each participant in the Night of Yokai was assigned a number. Number 41 was a petite oni girl carrying a gourd nearly asrge as herself.


    "An oni girl? She doesn''t look that strong," Yae Miko remarked, scanning the screens. "I''ll bet on Number 78."


    "Who''s Number 78?" Lucas asked, ncing at the screens in confusion.


    "I have no idea," Yae Miko admitted with augh. "I don''t care who wins. Either way... I''m fine with being on top or bottom."


    Her yful demeanor brought a rare warmth to his heart.


    Despite the cold and calcted persona he had cultivated, moments like these reminded him of his humanity. Only in Yae Miko''s presence could he find sce, however fleeting.


    "I''m sorry," Lucas said softly. "I don''t have much time left for you."


    ----

 Chapter 142: Villain Simulator, Ch 141

    <h4>Chapter 142: Viin Simtor, Ch 141</h4>


    "Why do you keep yourself so busy?" Yae Miko pressed her cheek against Lucas'' back, her tone tinged with intive concern. "The yokai issue is resolved. Yet you continue to bury yourself in administrative affairs. Is it really necessary?"


    To the yokai, "Kamuna Harunosuke" was a ruthless viin, but to the people of Inazuma, he was a tireless statesman of unparalleled virtue.


    Historically, such greatness often invoked suspicions of disloyalty, yet Lucas'' rtionship with Raiden Shogun remained as harmonious as fish to water. Without an heir, his betrayal seemed imusible.


    "I want the world Kitsune Saiguu wakes up to be one she would love," Lucas exined quietly. "If I left Inazuma in chaos, she''d be furious with me."


    "That does sound like something you would do," Yae Miko replied, her voiceced with wistfulness. "Promise me, once Saiguu-sama is revived, we''ll leave all this behind and live the rest of our lives in peace, won''t we?"


    Lucas opened his mouth to reply, but a sudden, loud wailing interrupted him from a nearby room.


    "What''s that sound?" Lucas''s expression shifted in rm. "It sounds like... a baby crying."


    "Oh, I almost forgot!" Yae Miko let out a yful giggle. "I brought you a ''little gift'' this time."


    She disappeared into the adjacent room, only to return momentster holding a pink-haired infant with fox ears and a tail. The child''s soft fur matched Yae Miko''s own, and she gurgled innocently in Miko''s arms.


    "This is..." Lucas teased, "your child?"


    "Of course. She''s ours," Yae Miko quipped, giving him a mock re. "You''d better take responsibility for us, you scoundrel."


    It was clearly a joke. While Lucas and Yae Miko had shared many intimate moments, they had always taken precautions. Besides, he''d never seen her showing signs of pregnancy during their frequent encounters.


    "All right, enough kidding around," Lucas said with a resigned smile. "Where did this little fox actuallye from?"


    "I found herst month at the gates of Narukami Shrine," Yae Miko exined, her tone softening. "She''s likely the child of a human and a kitsune. That''s probably why she was abandoned. I couldn''t just leave her there."


    Romances between humans and yokai weren''t unusual in Inazuma''s history, but the offspring of such unions were often seen as ill omens. This baby''s mother, while cruel enough to abandon her, had at least shown a shred of humanity by leaving her at the shrine.


    Narukami Shrine was home to many orphans taken in by Miko or Kitsune Saiguu herself in the past, suggesting an ongoing "hobby" of rescuing abandoned children.


    "Then raise her at the shrine," Lucas said, puzzled. "Why bring her to me?"


    "This little one is brimming with spiritual energy," Yae Miko replied with a sly grin. "With proper training, she could be a powerful shikigami¡ªa great asset."


    Of course, Yae Miko had her own personal reasons. For yokai, bearing children was a taxing ordeal, one she couldn''t afford as Narukami Shrine''s high priestess. Still, she longed to experience the joys of motherhood alongside Lucas, so she brought the child to him.


    Looking at the infant''s innocent face, Lucas couldn''t help but smile. He gently poked her cheek with a finger. The little fox cooed happily, grabbing his finger and gnawing on it with her toothless gums.


    "All right, all right," Yae Miko said, her tail wagging like a yful pup. "Isn''t she adorable? Come on, let''s raise her together!"


    "You''re impossible," Lucas muttered with a wry chuckle. "Fine, I''ll take care of her. What''s her name?"


    "She was left in front of the Tamamo Stone at the shrine," Yae Miko said thoughtfully. "Let''s call her Tamamo-no-Mae."


    Wait¡ªTamamo-no-Mae?


    Surely, it was just a coincidence. Inazuma''s naming conventions often drew from ces or objects nearby, resulting in names like Tanaka ("field center"), Ishigami ("stone above"), or Kinoshita ("below the tree").


    Just then, Tamamo-no-Mae spat out Lucas''s finger and started crying loudly again.


    "Looks like little Tamamo is hungry," Yae Miko said with a sigh. "She really does have quite an appetite. I''ll go feed her."


    "Feed her?" Lucas blinked. "I don''t see how you could¡ªif you could, I''d have found out long ago."


    Yae Miko''s face turned crimson. She lightly smacked his chest with a small fist, feigning indignation. "What nonsense are you talking about? Of course, I mean fresh milk!"


    With that, she got up and disappeared into the side room. Shortly afterward, Tamamo-no-Mae''s cries began to quiet.


    Yae Miko peeked out from the doorframe, her cheeks still flushed. "You know," she said coyly, "if you really want to taste it... there''s a way. But only if you help me..."


    "Help you with what?" Lucas asked, feigning ignorance.


    "...Coax... the fox milk..." Yae Miko murmured bashfully.


    After partaking in a rare "delicacy," the Night of Yokai drew to a close.


    To Yae Miko''s surprise, the winner turned out to be the petite oni girl Lucas had bet on.


    Most oni, regardless of gender, wererger and more muscr than humans. This girl, however, was small and wiry, though the enormous gourd she carried suggested great strength.


    By tradition, the Night of Yokai champion was granted an audience with Kamuna Harunosuke. Ostensibly, this was to verify the winner''s strength, but it also served as a calcted gesture of authority.


    Winners were exempt from execution and the sacrifice list for ten years, giving them time to grow even stronger.


    "What''s your name?" Lucas asked.


    "I love drinking," the oni girl said, staring intently at him. "Everyone calls me Little Drunkard. This gourd? It''s filled with sake."


    Even Lucas, who rarely smiled, found himself amused. But the moment he let his guard down, the girl drew a dagger from her gourd and lunged at him.


    "Assassin!" a guard shouted, but the girl was far quicker. Before Lucas could react, her de plunged into his chest.


    Yet Lucas remained calm. "Why do this? You could have lived."


    "My parents died in the Battle of Crimson Fox ins," she said, a triumphant smile spreading across her face. "I trained hard just for this chance¡ªto stand before you."


    Lucas pulled the de from his chest without flinching. The wound closed almost instantly, his enhanced body far removed from ordinary humanity.


    The girl froze in shock, but before she could react, a katana swung toward her neck.


    "Great Tengu, don''t kill her," Lucas ordered.


    The de stopped inches from her throat. Turning, the girl saw her would-be executioner¡ªa slender woman in a tengu mask, her ck wings unmistakable.


    "Why?" the oni girl snarled. "Why would a yokai serve the enemy of our kind?"


    The Great Tengu said nothing, her de still pressed to the girl''s neck.


    "Take her to the interrogation chamber," Lucasmanded coldly. "I''ll question her myself."


    <strong>Onmyou Bureau, Interrogation Chamber</strong>


    The so-called interrogation chamber was more akin to a torture chamber, filled with bizarre instruments designed specifically for different types of yokai.


    The oni girl who had just attempted to assassinate Lucasy stretched out on a stone b in arge "X" position. No ropes bound her; a single "Immobilization Talisman" rendered her utterly helpless.


    "What... what are you nning to do to me?" she demanded, her voice trembling with a mix of defiance and fear. "Why don''t you just kill me?"


    "You''re very talented. It would be a waste to kill you," Lucas replied, standing at her side with a faint smile. "I want... your body."


    "You... you perverted old man!" she snarled. "If you try anything, I''ll¡ªI''ll crush you to death!"


    Though her words sounded absurd, they weren''t entirely idle threats. Oni were not only incredibly strong but had precise control over their muscles. During the human-yokai war, some soldiers had met grisly fates attempting to vite captured female oni, only to be crushed to death for their transgressions.


    "Hold on, ''perverted old man'' is going too far, don''t you think?" Lucas sighed, shaking his head. "How old are you, anyway?"


    "Eighty," the oni girl replied with a scowl. "I''m still a child."


    Good grief, she''s older than I am by a whole cycle of the zodiac.


    "Even children must face consequences for their actions, especially unruly ones like you," Lucas said, rubbing his palms together. "Don''t worry; I have plenty of ways to make you my shikigami."


    "Using your Onmyoudo? Ha! I''ll never submit to that kind of magic!" she spat defiantly.


    "Onmyoudo? How boring." Lucas''s eyes scanned the room before lifting a mace bristling with iron spikes. The sharp, glinting nails were polished to a menacing sheen. "Didn''t you say you could crush things? How about this one?"


    For the first time, a flicker of fear crossed her face, though she quickly masked it. "I''m not afraid of you!" she shouted.


    "Then what about this?" Lucas asked, raising a colossal ymore, modeled after the legendary "Redhorn Stone-thresher."


    "It won''t fit!" she blurted, her wide eyes darting to the absurdlyrge weapon. "There''s no way it''ll fit!"


    "Fair enough," Lucas conceded, cing the ymore aside and lifting a glowing iron rod heated to a fiery red. "Then let''s try this."


    "No... no, please!" Tears welled in her eyes as panic set in.


    "Don''t worry about choosing one. I''ll use them all," Lucas said matter-of-factly.


    The oni girl''s face turned ashen. For the first time, she was utterly speechless, tears streaming down her cheeks.


    Lucas continued, his tone eerily calm. "And it''s not just these. There''s the steel needles, the ice spikes, the poison eels, the cursed beetles... Oni are known for their exceptional healing, and with my restorative magic, I''ll make sure you experience everything."


    How she''d experience it was a matter left to grim spection.


    From a young age, she had heard rumors of Kamuna Harunosuke, the Onmyou Bureau''s master¡ªhow he was ten, no, a hundred times more brutal than the most wicked yokai. Back then, she had dismissed it as exaggerated storytelling. Even when she first saw him, his gentle demeanor seemed at odds with those tales.


    Now, she knew the truth: this man was a devil.


    "I''ll give you one minute to reconsider," Lucas said, brandishing the glowing iron rod before her eyes. "Take your time."


    The oni girl''s resolve crumbled, her trembling lips unable to form words as massive tears rolled down her cheeks.


    "Crying won''t pause the countdown," Lucas said, raising the red-hot rod and pressing it dangerously close to her.


    "I... I''ll do it!" she finally sobbed, surrenderingpletely. "A ve, a shikigami, whatever! Just... just put that thing away!"


    "That''s better," Lucas said, though he still plunged the glowing rod toward her stomach.


    "AAAAAHHHH!" she screamed, tears and snot flowing freely.


    But momentster, she realized there was no pain. The rod hadn''t burned through her flesh. Instead, it was cool to the touch¡ªjust an ordinary iron rod, its fiery glow nothing more than an illusion.


    "It was only a mirage," Lucas said, smirking. "Although, I did enjoy your fiery attitude earlier."


    "You...!" she seethed, torn between fury and humiliation. "Why would you turn an assassin into your shikigami?"


    "If you truly want to kill me, then grow stronger," Lucas said as he tossed the rod aside. "And by the way, ''Little Drunkard'' is a terrible name. Since you love drinking, from now on, you''ll be called ''Shuten-Douji.''"


    "I''ll kill you someday!" Shuten-Douji barked. "I''ll turn you into a drinking snack and devour you piece by piece!"


    Lucas turned to leave without looking back. "I''ll be waiting."


    "Wait¡ªhold on!" she shouted desperately. "At least take off this immobilization talisman!"


    <strong>[Exiting Immersive Mode]</strong>


    <strong>[Entering Text Mode]</strong>


    [Age 68: Teruyo, now reborn as the loyal "Great Tengu," and the rebellious oni girl "Shuten-Douji" became your two primary shikigami under focused cultivation.]


    [Teruyo, having epted the memories you imnted, became your fiercely devoted protector.]


    [Shuten-Douji, though still harboring thoughts of assassinating you, showed remarkable growth under your tutge.]


    ---

 Chapter 143: Villain Simulator, Ch 142

    <h4>Chapter 143: Viin Simtor, Ch 142</h4>


    [Age 73: Under your and Yae Miko''s careful guidance, Tamamo-no-Mae grew into a healthy child, showcasing remarkable talent.]


    [Age 78: The cmity''s influence once again spread among the yokai, driving many powerful creatures to madness due to the Abyssal ck Tide.]


    [Leading your Onmyouji and shikigami, you quelled the ensuing chaos.]


    [This disaster further solidified the belief among yokai that the cmity targeted their kind specifically, reinforcing the perceived necessity of the "Night of Yokai."]


    [Of course, no one suspected that this so-called "cmity" was secretly orchestrated by you, achieving your intended goal.]


    [Age 82: The Night of Yokai had quietly be one of Inazuma''s most significant festivals, alongside the Summer Fire Festival.]


    [Ironically, this ritual meant to punish yokai had gained immense poprity within their own ranks. They had begun to regard participation as a mark of honor, forgetting its origins as a form of sacrifice.]


    [The surviving champions of each year''s event were even revered as heroes by the yokai, an oue that even you had not anticipated. Lambs willingly offering themselves to the ughter¡ªhow convenient.]


    [Age 85: While investigating Seirai Ind, you detected a powerful force emanating from the area, potentially linked to the remnants of the Thunder Bird, Kapatcir, who had once devastated Tsurumi Ind.]


    [The Thunder Bird had been in by Raiden Shogun in her fury, and her power sealed at Seirei Ind. To maintain the seal, the Asase Shrine and the surrounding settlements of Koseki Vige had been established.]


    [Now, this force stirred once more. If sessfully absorbed, it could greatly aid in reviving Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [As the Onmyou Bureau''s head, you could not directly interfere with the seal. However, through your investigations, you discovered that its guardian was none other than Asase Hibiki, a shrine maiden who had once studied under Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [Hibiki, having devoted herself to istion on Seirai Ind, had extended her life significantly through spiritual training.]


    [Your research also revealed that following the cmity, the inders of Seirai had turned to piracy for survival. Their leader, Ako Domeki, and his gship, Seiraimaru, had be sources of pride for the inders.]


    [Domeki shared a close bond with Hibiki, a friendship that transcended their age difference. With no children of her own, she likely saw him as the son she never had.]


    [To break the seal, you deployed a Shogunate fleet to eliminate Domeki''s pirates. While prior attempts to subdue him had been half-hearted, this time you personally led a contingent of elite forces, apanied by your shikigami, in secret.]


    [Domeki''s group was pushed to the brink, and as you anticipated, Hibiki intervened.]


    [You knew Hibiki better than anyone. Her unwavering determination had driven her to defy Raiden Shogun, to sever ties with you, and to guard Seirai Ind in solitude for decades.]


    [To repel the Shogunate forces, Hibiki broke the seal, unleashing the wrathful remains of Kapatcir, manifesting as the Thunder Manifestation. The creature summoned tempests and tidal waves, wreaking havoc upon the sea.]


    [This immense power overwhelmed ordinary soldiers, forcing you to rely on your two guardian shikigami, the Great Tengu and Shuten-Douji, to subdue the Thunder Manifestation. After a grueling day-and-night battle, you emerged victorious.]


    [You absorbed the Manifestation''s energy, gaining the following ability:]


    <strong>[Ability Acquired: Thunder Manifestation]</strong>


    <strong>Effect: Increases the damage of all Electro-elemental abilities by 30%.</strong>


    [Domeki and his surviving crew were executed publicly. Hibiki, used of abusing her position and endangering Seirai Ind, faced severe punishment.]


    [This marked your first and final encounter with Hibiki after many decades.]


    [Though her techniques had kept her youthful, her face showed hints of age. Theplex bond between you two had finally reached its conclusion.]


    ["You''ve caused a disaster this time," you said coldly. "But out of respect for our past, I''ll spare your life."]


    [Hibiki, however, ignored your words and asked calmly, "Did you kill Domeki?"]


    ["That young pirate? Yes, of course," you replied dismissively. "And what of it?"]


    [Upon hearing your response, Hibiki''s lips curled into a faint, inscrutable smile. She spoke evenly: "Do you know why I was willing to risk Seirai Ind''s destruction for that boy?"]


    [In the original narrative, Hibiki''s actions had drawn heavy criticism. Her reckless decision not only sank Shogunate and pirate ships alike but also left the ind shrouded in thunderstorms. Critics called her selfish and foolish for risking so much for a mere "acquaintance."]


    ["It was a gamble, nothing more," you said indifferently. "And you lost. To sacrifice so much for one pirate¡ªHibiki, was it really worth it?"]


    ["And to sacrifice tens of thousands of lives to resurrect one person¡ªis that worth it?" Hibiki''s retort caught you off guard.]


    [For the first time, her words left you momentarily speechless.]


    ["Let me tell you why I saved him," Hibiki continued, her voice steady. "Domeki... was my grandson."]


    ["Impossible!" you eximed, visibly startled. "Who was your husband?"]


    ["I never married," she said, her expression triumphant. "Guess who his grandfather is."]


    [As you opened your mouth to demand answers, Hibiki spat out a mouthful of ck blood and copsed. She had taken poison. Even as you checked her body, her faint smile suggested her final victory.]


    [With Domeki''s body already cremated, you had no way to confirm her im. Perhaps it was merely a spiteful trick, her final revenge against you.]


    [For decades, your ns had been wless, yet now, a humble shrine maiden from a remote ind had outwitted you.]


    [To revive Kitsune Saiguu, you had treated both human and yokai lives as disposable. But Hibiki''s parting words nted an unfamiliar seed of doubt within you.]


    [Age 86: You fell gravely ill, but upon recovery, your demeanor grew colder and more detached. From then on, no sacrifice¡ªhuman or yokai¡ªwould ever trouble you again.]


    [Age 99: A cursed sword, Muramasa, wreaked havoc in Inazuma City.


    [After subduing it, you transformed it into a shikigami named "Youtou-hime."]


    [Age 112: Tamamo-no-Mae, now a yokai, participated in the Night of Yokai and emerged victorious¡ªonly to be severely reprimanded by Yae Miko.]


    [Age 123: Vigers conducting a "Hyakumonogatari Kaidankai," a Gathering of One Hundred Supernatural Tales identally opened a gate to the underworld, summoning the fearsome yokai "Aoandon," who caused massive casualties. Tamamo-no-Mae defeated and bound her as your shikigami.]


    [In the game of Hyakumonogatari Kaidankai, when thest story is told and thest light extinguished, something is said to appear from the darkness. For some people, that "something" had a name¡ªAoandon, the Blue Lantern Ghost.]


    [Age 134: Shuten-Douji, drunk for the forty-eighth time, stormed into your chambers threatening to kill you. As usual, she was tossed out by morning, clutching her bloated stomach and muttering, "I can''t... drink another drop..."]


    [Age 145: With your approval, Teruyo established a new swordsmanship school, the "Iwakura Style," attracting countless disciples. asionally, you visited her dojo to spar.]


    <strong>[Ability Acquired: Iwakura Style Mastery]</strong>


    <strong>Effect: Full proficiency in Iwakura sword techniques. Swordsmanship skill increased by 20%.</strong>


    [Age 162: A Hannya mask, steeped in malevolent energy over centuries, transformed into a yokai. It attached itself to both humans and yokai, manipting its hosts to wreak havoc while feeding on their power. By switching hosts, it steadily grew stronger.]


    [A vengeful spirit who became a demon due to intense jealousy and resentment. The mask is said to embody theplexity of human emotions, particrly the destructive power of unchecked jealousy and anger.]


    [The mask infiltrated the Night of Yokai, controlling its host to ughter other yokai and absorb their energy. It ultimately emerged victorious in the tournament. Fascinated by your immense power, the masktched onto your face.]


    [However, its ability to dominate minds had no effect on you. Overwhelmed by your spiritual strength, the Hannya mask was forced into submission and became one of your shikigami.]


    [Age 165: Tomemorate the 100th Night of Yokai, you lifted previous restrictions, allowing past winners to participate. The winner of this grand tournament would earn exemption from future Nights of Yokai and a substantial reward.]


    [The rule change drew an unprecedented number of powerful yokai. To immortalize this special asion, youmissioned a renowned artist to depict all participants in a grand painting.]


    [Unexpectedly, the painting absorbed yokai energy and came to life, pledging itself to you as a shikigami. You named it the <strong><i>Hyakki Yagy¨­ Scroll</i></strong>.]


    [<strong>Hyakki Yagy¨­</strong>, or the "Night Parade of One Hundred Demons," is a fascinating concept in Japanese folklore. It refers to a procession of supernatural creatures, known as yokai, that march through the streets at night. ording to legend, these creatures, including demons, ghosts, and otherworldly beings, are drawn to festivals and parades, where they revel in chaos and revelry.]


    [By this point, you¡ªapanied by Shuten-Douji, the Great Tengu, Tamamo-no-Mae, wielding the Aoandon, carrying the cursed de Muramasa, donning the Hannya mask, and standing atop the Hyakki<strong> </strong>Yagy¨­¡ªhad reached the zenith of your power. You were truly "second only to the gods, unbound by anyws."]


    [The extraordinary strength of this year''s participants also brought you a considerable harvest of yokai energy.]


    [It seemed everything was proceeding as nned. Over the past century, the yokai energy you gathered through the Night of Yokai and the Thunder Manifestation had almost reached the threshold needed to revive Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [Yet, as the final moment approached, an unfamiliar anxiety took hold of you. This was your ultimate hope, the purpose that had sustained you through the years. You couldn''t imagine what you would do if the n failed.]


    [Age 170: Perhaps overwhelmed by stress, you decided to step away from your duties and revisit an old promise¡ªto free Qiqi from her amber prison. With your current strength, you far surpassed your former self.]


    [Arriving in Liyue after a century, you found that much had changed. Yet, some things remained the same. You soon found Ganyu, who, as an adeptus descendant, was virtually untouched by time.]


    [She informed you that after your departure, Mountain Shaper had been furious, isting himself for a decade. But with time, his anger faded, and he asionally inquired about your well-being.]


    [This touched you deeply. Much of your sess was due to Mountain Shaper''s teachings, and you felt a pang of guilt for having betrayed his trust.]


    [You returned to Mt. Ho, now shrouded in even denser mists, perhaps as a reflection of Mountain Shaper''s desire for solitude.]


    [The thick mist was no obstacle to you now. A simple spell dispersed it with ease.]


    [Guided by memories, you found the valley where Mountain Shaper had sealed Qiqi in amber.]


    [Encased in translucent yellow crystal, the girl appeared as if merely asleep, her face serene and rosy.]


    [Though you had known Qiqi for only a few years, her innocence and kindness had brought light to your dark journey. Now, a centuryter, her loved ones were surely gone. Resolving to bring her back to Inazuma, you prepared to break the seal.]


    [As you chanted an Onmyoudo incantation, a crane descended from the sky,nding gracefully before you. It was none other than Mountain Shaper.]


    [Reunited after a hundred years, you, the revered Onmyou Bureau Chief of Inazuma, felt like a child once again before your old master.]


    ["Qiqi''s madness has not yet subsided," Mountain Shaper warned. "Her seal must not be undone."]


    ["Master!" You knelt immediately, only for him to lift you gently with a wing.]


    ["There is no need for such gestures. We are no longer master and disciple," he said calmly. "I have heard of your deeds in Inazuma. To revive that fox, you have stirred quite themotion."]


    ["I am close to sess," you replied confidently. "Do you disapprove of my methods, Master, for taking so many yokai lives?"]


    ["What happens to Inazuma''s yokai is of no concern to me," Mountain Shaper replied, shaking his head. "I only wish to tell you this: your methods cannot bring Kitsune Saiguu back. All your efforts are in vain."]


    [Had anyone else said this, you would have flown into a rage. But you knew your master did not speak lightly. Even so, your resolve remained unshaken.]


    ["I cannot turn back now," you said firmly. "No matter the oue."]


    ["Foolish child," he sighed. "Very well. I will aid you, so you may see the truth sooner."]


    [Mountain Shaper handed you a pearl brimming with pure adeptal energy.]


    ["This is the energy I have umted over the years," he said with a hint of pride. "It surpasses the chaotic yokai energy you''ve gathered by far."]


    [You knew him well enough to understand that beneath his detached demeanor, he cared deeply. epting the pearl, you bowed three times in gratitude.]


    ["Thank you, Master," you said sincerely.]


    [As you turned to leave, he added softly, "You carry too many burdens, my foolish disciple. Perhaps... it is time to let some go."]


    [His words struck a chord deep within you. For the first time in a century, tears streamed down your face.]


    [Age 171: Mountain Shaper''s adeptal energy became the final piece of your resurrection n. Over the past century, you had gathered more than 100,000 memory fragments of Kitsune Saiguu scattered across Inazuma. Though not entirelyplete, it was enough to reconstruct her soul.]


    [Everything unfolded as you had envisioned. With sufficient energy, the puppet serving as her vessel showed its first signs of life, its face breaking into an expression.]


    [Kitsune Saiguu was revived.]


    ["Sister Saiguu..." Your voice trembled, desperate for her response.]


    [She blinked, then smiled warmly. Just as before, she pinched your cheek yfully. "Ashan, it''s been a while."]


    [In that moment, emotions buried for over a century erupted. You copsed into her arms, sobbing like the lost seven-year-old boy she hadforted during the summer festival so long ago.]


    [Age 172: Though Kitsune Saiguu''s resurrection was sessful, she was not entirely the same. The iplete memory fragments left gaps in her recollections.]


    [But this mattered little to you. You were wholly immersed in the joy of her return.]


    [Now that Kitsune Saiguu was back, the oppression of the yokai was no longer necessary. Yet dismantling the system entirely would take time. The first step was to abolish the Night of Yokai.]


    [You announced that the cmity had been eradicated, and the ritual was no longer needed. Unexpectedly, this deration faced significant opposition¡ªironically, most of it from the yokai themselves.]


    [Once a system is established, even its creator may struggle to undo it.]


    [Still, you had no energy left to address these matters. After years of toil, you decided to devote the rest of your life to yourself and your loved ones.]


    [As promised, you arranged your affairs and retreated to Narukami Shrine with Kitsune Saiguu, Yae Miko, and your seven shikigami.]


    [Age 173: Your "retirement" was blissful, though a subtle unease lingered. While Kitsune Saiguu appeared to be her old self in every way, something felt... off.]


    [Her appearance, voice, habits, and even her favorite foods and mannerisms were all as you remembered. She spoke as she once did, down to her endearing quirks and the timing of her words.]


    [Even in your most intimate moments, she echoed her past self with uncanny precision.]


    [Yet, a persistent doubt gnawed at you, an unshakable feeling that something vital was missing.]


    -----


    Author''s Note: This Chapter took me a real while... Checking all the lores abt those yokai and spirits.. Quite fun to read tho so I''ve added short references for you, hope you like them :)


    Next Extra Chapter at 1200 p.s

 Chapter 144: Villain Simulator, Ch 143

    <h4>Chapter 144: Viin Simtor, Ch 143</h4>


    [Age 176: At first, you thought you were overthinking it. But as you spent more time living together, this strange feeling only grew stronger.]


    [She felt like a machine loaded with a "Kitsune Saiguu temte." Her reactions to the world around her were not instinctive but seemed guided by some "program," with its database being Kitsune Saiguu''s memories.]


    [It was akin to the "Ship of Theseus" paradox. What you had recreated from fragments of Kitsune Saiguu''s memories was not, and could never be, the true Kitsune Saiguu.]


    [Gradually, you began to understand Mountain Shaper''s warning¡ªreviving the dead was a futile endeavor.]


    [You wanted to deceive yourself, to ept reality and force yourself to believe that this "replica" was the real Kitsune Saiguu. Yet every interaction with her only deepened your difort.]


    [You confided your anguish to Yae Miko, and through your reflections, you finally identified the source of your obsession. It wasn''t about bringing Kitsune Saiguu back to life¡ªit was your inability to ept the humiliating way in which she had been consumed by the Abyssal Dark Will.]


    [Yae Miko, as always, listened quietly to your woes. After a long silence, she suggested a way to truly bring Kitsune Saiguu back to life: reversing time and rewriting causality.]


    [Reversing time? This was a path even you had never considered. Not even <strong>The Seven</strong> of the Current Era, the strongest beings of the world, possessed such power.]


    [In all the texts you had studied, there was no mention of time-maniption magic. Only Mountain Shaper had alluded to it in passing, warning that reversing time was the most forbidden of taboos, one that could invite intervention from "higher forces."]


    [But if time could be reversed, if you could return to the moment when Kitsune Saiguu was swallowed by the Dark Will, perhaps your current strength would be enough to fight it off and save her!]


    [The concept was simple enough. But the act of traversing time was another matter entirely. Yae Miko admitted she didn''t know how to reverse time but said she was aware of a phenomenon created by time reversal.]


    [That phenomenon was none other than the Sacred Sakura Tree at Narukami Shrine. You were puzzled by its connection to time maniption. After all, the Sacred Sakura had always been a protector of Inazuma''s people.]


    [But Yae Miko revealed an astonishing truth: the Sacred Sakura was a product of time reversal. Raiden Ei''s elder sister, Raiden Makoto, had nted its seed in the past through time maniption. This altered history, leading everyone to believe the tree had always been part of Inazuma''snd.]


    [If the Sacred Sakura was a product of time reversal, perhaps it could reveal a method for you to achieve the same. Using Onmyoudo, you detached your spirit from your body and entered the Sacred Sakura, seeking answers within its roots, which connected to the leylines of thend.]


    [The process of probing the Sacred Sakura''s will was as arduous as finding a needle in an ocean.]


    [Time flowed differently in this mental realm. What seemed like mere moments in reality stretched into centuries within this consciousness.]


    [Finally, perhaps moved by your persistence, an ethereal voice responded to your spirit.]


    ["I am Istaroth, the Ruler of Time. What you hear is but an echo of my lingering consciousness, embedded within the Sacred Sakura. Ignorant mortal, why do you seek me?"]


    [Image here]


    [The voice resonated directly in your mind. You conveyed your purpose: to reverse time and return to the moment when Kitsune Saiguu was consumed by the Dark Will.]


    ["I can grant your wish," Istaroth replied, "but you must pay the corresponding price. Be my apostle, eternally bound to my will. In your mortal terms... a contract."]


    [Faced with the Ruler of Time''s proposal, your response was...]


    [1. ept]


    [2. Decline]


    "I ept"


    ["The contract is sealed. Time shall be reversed."]


    [Entering Immersive Mode]


    [Mission: Save Kitsune Saiguu]


    When Lucas opened his eyes, barrennd stretched endlessly before him.


    His chest still bore the deep scars of his battles with the cmity, but they were old wounds, reminders of struggles fought long ago. Or perhaps, for him, not yet. The realization struck: he had truly traveled back in time.


    Before him loomed the Abyssal Dark Will, its malevolent energy coalescing into a gaping maw that seemed eager to devour all life. Suspended above the chaos, a white-haired fox-eared sorceress hovered, her expression unyielding as she stood against the tide.


    It was Kitsune Saiguu.


    Lucas''s heart pounded. He instinctively reached out to summon his shikigami for aid but was met with an unsettling emptiness. They were gone¡ªall seven of them.


    Of course. If time had rewound to before their bonds were forged, they would have no connection to him now.


    His mind raced. Without their power, how could he hope to stand against the tide and save Kitsune Saiguu?


    The scene before him began to rey the fateful moment he had tried so desperately to change.


    "<i>So go on, dark will of abyss.</i>," Kitsune Saiguu murmured, her voice steady despite the despair thatced her words, "<i>" I have no strength left to resist. You may take my Kitsune blood as you please."</i>


    No! Lucas''s resolve hardened. He could not let history repeat itself.


    Channeling thest remnants of his spiritual energy, he surged forward. His leap was clumsy, his form unrefined¡ªbut it was enough. He collided with Kitsune Saiguu, shoving her out of harm''s way just as the Dark Will began its assault.


    "Ashan!" Kitsune Saiguu gasped, her voice filled with shock and disbelief as she stared at the man before her.


    Lucas smiled faintly. There was no fear in his gaze, only quiet satisfaction. "Atst..." he whispered, his voice trembling with emotion. "I see you again..."


    Before he could finish his sentence, the tide surged forward, engulfing him in its abyssal grasp.


    But Lucas did not die.


    When his eyes opened once more, he found himself in a strange, surreal space. The surroundings shimmered with an otherworldly glow, colors and shapes constantly shifting like a kaleidoscope.


    Was this... the interior of the cmity?


    "So, you willingly offer yourself as my meal?"


    A shadowy, amorphous figure began to take shape before him, its voice a mixture of mockery and disdain. "How pointless. Your sacrifice changes nothing. I will still devour her. And thisnd as well."


    The figure radiated an overwhelming aura of malice. Lucas understood immediately¡ªthis was the cmity''s will given form.


    Perhaps, he thought, Kitsune Saiguu had faced this very entity when she sacrificed herself to dy its advance.


    "You are the will of the cmity?" Lucas asked, his voice calm despite the oppressive presence before him. "I am..."


    "A dead man."


    The entity showed no interest in his identity. A ck spear materialized in its hand, and with a single swift motion, it pierced Lucas''s chest.


    He staggered, his body wracked with pain. In this moment, stripped of his power, Lucas was no longer the invincible Kamuna Harunosuke. Against the cmity''s strength, he was utterly powerless.


    But even as his vision began to blur, a faint smile crossed his lips. "Istaroth... my lord," he whispered, blood staining his lips. "Your loyal apostle has one final request. Please rewind time... by ten seconds..."


    The words had scarcely left his lips when the world around him began to shift.


    Colors bled into one another, and the scene seemed to unravel. Time itself rewound at a visible pace. The spear withdrew from Lucas''s chest, and the gaping wound that had marked his end vanished without a trace.


    No¡ªit wasn''t healing. Time had simply reverted to the moment before the spear had struck.


    Lucas straightened, his voice steady and unwavering this time. "Cmity," he said. "I''vee to bargain."


    At the final moment before his death, Lucas'' plea was granted, forcefully rewinding time by ten seconds¡ªback to the moment just before the Cmity''s will had killed him.


    "You want to bargain? How amusing."


    The Cmity''s will sneered. "I''ll kill you again and devour everything afterward."


    Suddenly, it hesitated, its tone turning perplexed. "Wait... what''s going on? Weren''t you already dead?"


    "d you noticed," Lucas replied with a faint smile. "Now, are you ready to hear my terms¡ª"


    Before he could finish, a de formed from the Dark Willshed out, severing his head in one swift motion.


    "Hmph," the Cmity''s will scoffed. "Pathetic trickery. As if that could fool me¡ª"


    Its words halted abruptly as time reversed once again. Lucas''s severed head reattached itself to his neck as if rewound on an unseen reel.


    He gasped deeply, his face pale from the lingering memories of death.


    Though he hadn''t truly died, the experiences of being impaled and decapitated were vividly real¡ªfar from anything he wished to endure again.


    "Cmity, I''vee to bargain."


    The entity''s dark form rippled uneasily.


    "What is this trickery?" the Cmity''s will asked, confusion tainting its malice. "What have you done?"


    "I have the favor of a higher power," Lucas replied, gesturing toward the sky. "If you don''t agree to my terms, time will remain stuck in an endless loop."


    "Impossible!" it roared.


    Two massive ck hands materialized, grabbing Lucas and hoisting him into the air. "Then let''s see how you handle this."


    With a sickening tear, Lucas''s body was ripped in half. His organs spilled out, sttering onto the ground in a grotesque disy.


    The ck hands transformed into feet, stomping repeatedly on the mangled remains until they were unrecognizable.


    Surely, the entity thought, no one could revive from such utter destruction.


    Yet the grotesque lump of flesh began to twist and reconstitute itself, every strand of muscle and fiber reknitting. Before long, Lucas stood whole once more.


    "Cmity," he repeated, his expression grim. "I''vee to bargain."


    The Cmity''s will recoiled, finally realizing the truth.


    This mortal indeed possessed the ability to rewind time.


    "<i>But why?</i>" it wondered aloud. "<i>Why does someone with such power remain so weak</i>?"


    "I admit," the Cmity''s will said with a cold chuckle, "you''ve mastered a strange ability. But you''re stuck in this loop with me, forced to endure the pain of death over and over again."


    "Try me," Lucas said with a smirk. "I''ve got all day."


    And so, the cycle began.


    <strong>Fourth death.</strong><strong>Sixteenth death.</strong>


    <strong>Seventy-eighth death.</strong>


    <strong>Two hundred forty-fourth death.</strong>


    <strong>Three thousand five hundred twelfth death.</strong>


    <strong>Seventy-eight thousand six hundred fifty-fourth death.</strong>


    Each time, Lucas revived. And each time, he said the same thing:


    "Cmity, I''vee to bargain."


    He was relentless, embodying humanity''s ultimate weapon: indomitable human spirit.


    Finally, the Cmity''s will snapped.


    "What do you want to negotiate?" it growled, its patience exhausted.


    Though reluctant to abandon its im on Inazuma, the Cmity recognized the futility of remaining trapped in an eternal loop against this maddeningly persistent human.


    "Leave Inazuma," Lucas said, his voice steady and unyielding. "And never set foot here again."


    The Cmity''s will hesitated, its swirling form seething with frustration. Finally, it relented.


    "Fine," it said coldly. "I ept your terms."


    With those words, the Abyssal Dark Will began to dissipate.


    Lucas, who had been hovering midair amidst the chaos, suddenly plummeted. But before he hit the ground, he was caught in a warm, familiar embrace.


    The dark miasma that had tainted Inazuma''snds and seas rapidly receded, restoring the natural beauty of the terrain.


    "The Cmity... it''s gone," Kitsune Saiguu murmured in awe, gazing down at Lucas in her arms. "Ashan, what... what did you do?"


    For Kitsune Saiguu and the world outside, only a few minutes had passed. Yet within the endless loops of death and revival, Lucas had endured tens of thousands of deaths.


    He didn''t answer her question. Instead, his reply was an impulsive, wordless kiss.


    His movements were confident, though clumsy in their fervor. Her tongue hesitated briefly, but she quickly rallied, matching his intensity.


    Yes, this was the real Kitsune Saiguu.


    "Ahem..."


    A soft cough broke the moment, and the two pulled apart to find themselves surrounded by shrine maidens.


    They wore amused smiles, watching the scene unfold like an entertaining y.


    Leading them was a young, fox-eared girl¡ªnone other than Yae Miko from over a century ago. Her expression, however, was unusuallyplex.


    Kitsune Saiguu straightened, trying to maintain herposure. She turned to Lucas, her brow furrowed.


    "Ashan, what just happened?" she asked.


    "Nothing much," Lucas replied, shaking his head. "I think... I just woke up from a very long dream."


    A dream.


    A dream that had stretched across countless lifetimes of agony, yet still filled him with gratitude upon waking.


    Lucas had driven the Cmity away and saved Kitsune Saiguu, sessfully reversing the course of history.


    But as the euphoria of their reunion lingered, Kitsune Saiguu''s expression shifted to one of concern.


    "Ashan," she said softly, her voice trembling. "Your hand..."


    Lucas looked down, startled. His hand was disintegrating, pixting into shimmering points of light that floated away like fireflies.


    Was this the cost of his pact with the Ruler of Time?


    ---


    Author''s Note: :'')

 Chapter 145: Villain Simulator, Ch 144

    <h4>Chapter 145: Viin Simtor, Ch 144</h4>


    Lucas faced his dissolution with remarkable calm. After all, everything he had done was for Kitsune Saiguu''s survival. With that goal achieved, he felt at peace, even as his body began to fade.


    "No... don''t go..."


    For the first time, panic crossed Kitsune Saiguu''s face. She desperately tried to hold onto Lucas''s arm, but she couldn''t stop his physical form from vanishing.


    Was this how their hard-won reunion would end¡ªso bitterly?


    "Don''t leave me..." Tears streamed down her face as she cried out, "Everything is over. Why does it have to be this way?"


    "Don''t worry. I''m not dying," Lucas said softly, trying to reassure her. "I''ll be waiting for you... in the future."


    "The future?" Kitsune Saiguu''s trembling voice carried a note of confusion. "How far into the future?"


    "Five hundred years," Lucas replied, inventing a time span long enough to heal her grief. "Promise me, live well. I''ll be waiting for you in five hundred years."


    He turned to Yae Miko, his voice warm with affection despite the gravity of the moment. "Take care of Saiguu. And behave yourself¡ªotherwise, in five hundred years, you''ll answer to me."


    Sniffling, Yae Miko wiped at her eyes. "You''d better not be lying!" she choked out.


    "Of course not, I..."


    Before Lucas could finish, his body dissolvedpletely into radiant particles of light, leaving only his clothes behind.


    "Five hundred years..." Kitsune Saiguu murmured, clutching his clothes tightly to her chest. "I will wait for you, no matter how long it takes."


    [Mission Complete: Save Kitsune Saiguu]


    [Talent Reward: Inazuma Affinity]


    [Effect: Significantly increases the likelihood of gaining favor with creatures of Inazuma.]


    It seemed that Lucas''s actions had inadvertently saved all of Inazuma, leading to this reward.


    [Simtion Complete]


    [Cause of Death: Sacrificing life as the price of a pact with Istaroth.]


    [Rewards have been sent and can be viewed at any time.]


    [Please choose a permanent talent: "Great Onmyouji," "Affinity with Yokai," or "Childhood Friend."]


    The choice was obvious.


    Affinity with Yokai was already covered by Inazuma Affinity.


    Childhood Friend wouldn''t have much use in reality¡ªbesides, if a childhood friend suddenly appeared out of nowhere, it wouldn''t be "childhood" anymore but more of a "fated encounter."


    [Selected "Great Onmyouji" as permanent talent.]


    Back in reality, Lucas felt as though he had just watched an epic film where he was the lead. The entire narrative hade to a sudden stop at the climax.


    He knew that the simtor operated within a parallel universe. That''s why he had told Saiguu and Miko such aforting lie.


    Time could change many things. Five hundred years would surely be enough for them to ovee the pain of his loss.


    Gazing out at the starry sky, Lucas whispered to himself, "I wonder if they, in that other world, can see the same stars I do."


    Meanwhile, in Inazuma, Narukami Shrine.


    Beneath the vast expanse of the night sky, a pink-haired, fox-eared shrine maiden gently shook a divination stick from its holder. One stick fell to the ground.


    The maiden was none other than Yae Miko. She casually muttered an incantation, and the fallen stick floated into her hand.


    Great Fortune.


    "There''s no point in drawing another one," said a voice behind her. A shrine maiden wearing a white fox mask appeared, smiling faintly. "You''ve drawn Great Fortune eight times in a row. Surely your wish wille true."


    "Let me guess¡ªyou reced all the sticks with Great Fortune, didn''t you?" Yae Miko shot her a knowing smile. "I''m not so gullible, you know."


    "Tch, you''re no fun. I miss the little fox who used to be so easy to tease," the masked maiden replied with a chuckle. "Anyway, fortune-telling sticks are just superstition."


    "Superstition or not, they''re one of our main sources of offerings," Yae Miko said with a resigned smile. "You know, as the former Chief Priest of Narukami Shrine, it doesn''t sound great when you say such things."


    The maiden removed her mask, revealing short, snow-white hair and a yful grin. "Time flies, doesn''t it? Five hundred years have passed in the blink of an eye."


    If Lucas were here, he would have been utterly stunned¡ªthis maiden was Kitsune Saiguu!


    In the original story, Kitsune Saiguu should have perished five hundred years ago, consumed by the Abyssal Dark Will.


    But Lucas''s intervention had altered the timeline. Five centuries ago, Kitsune Saiguu survived, while Lucas, ying the role of Kamuna Harunosuke, sacrificed himself to save her, leaving behind the promise of a reunion five hundred yearster.


    Perhaps even Lucas didn''t realize that the simtor wasn''t merely a parallel universe. It could alter reality itself, much like Raiden Makoto nting the Sacred Sakura''s seed in the past.


    "Yes, five hundred years..." Yae Miko sighed softly. "Do you think he''ll trulye back? Or were those just empty words tofort us?"


    "Even if they were lies," Kitsune Saiguu said, her expression resolute, "I believe we''ll meet again. And besides, does it have to be exactly five hundred years? A little margin of error is normal."


    For beings of their long-lived lineage, a few more years¡ªor even decades¡ªhardly mattered.


    "You''re right," Yae Miko agreed, nodding. "I''ve already prepared some portraits of Ashan. If we don''t hear anything soon, we can distribute them as missing-person posters. Better than waiting endlessly, don''t you think?"


    "That scoundrel made us wait this long," Kitsune Saiguu said with a mischievous smile. "When he shows up, we''ll have to properly ''punish'' him."


    ....


    The Next Morning


    Lucas woke up early.


    Having ended the simtion the previous night, he''d gone to bed feeling drained. Upon waking, he remembered he hadn''t yet checked his rewards from the simtion.


    He opened the system panel and found three A-grade blind boxes and five B-grade loot boxes.


    Following his usual practice, hebined the three A-grade boxes into an S-grade loot box and opened all the B-grade ones.


    [Opened S-grade loot box.]


    [Reward: Shimenawa''s Reminiscence (4-piece set).]


    [Effect 1: Increases ATK by 18%.]


    [Effect 2: After using an Elemental Skill, physical attack damage is increased by 50% for 10 seconds. This effect cannot stack and can activate once per minute.]


    [Opened B-grade loot boxes.]


    [Rewards: "Shikigami Talismans," "Shikigami Talismans," "Asura''s me Kill Talisman," "Five Thunder Strike Talisman," "Universal Wind Dragon Talisman," and "Barrier Defense Talisman."]


    [Shikigami Talisman]: Enables the user to im a defeated or willing entity as a shikigami.


    [Asura''s me Kill Talisman]: Summons infernal hellfire to attack enemies. (Remaining uses: 3/3)


    [Five Thunder Strike Talisman]: Summons heavenly thunder to strike random targets in range. (Remaining uses: 3/3)


    [Universal Wind Dragon Talisman]: Summons tornadoes of stormy winds to attack enemies. (Remaining uses: 3/3)


    [Barrier Defense Talisman]: Creates a protective barrier that blocks external attacks. (Remaining uses: 3/3)


    These talismans function simrly to magic scrolls in a world of sword and sorcery, storing spells for use when needed. The difference lies in the medium¡ªthese are talismans imbued with Onmyoudo magic.


    Even those without significant magical prowess or a Vision can activate these talismans, though it still requires some energy. However, talismans are consumables; once their charges are depleted, they be mere scraps of paper unless recharged by an Onmyouji.


    What Lucas didn''t realize was that by altering the timeline, he had unintentionally erased Kamuna Harunosuke''s journey to Liyue to master Onmyoudo, leading to the art''s absence in the current Inazuma.


    Yet the foundational knowledge imparted by Mountain Shaper remained intact in Lucas''s mind. With his [Great Onmyouji] talent, recreating the Onmyoudo system was only a matter of time and effort.


    A cheerful knock at the door interrupted his thoughts, followed by an energetic voice:


    "Papa! Wake up! If you don''t open the door, Klee''s gonna blow it up!"


    Klee''s voice?


    Startled, Lucas sprang out of bed and hurried to open the door, knowing her well enough to take the threat seriously.


    Sure enough, little Klee was standing at the door, grinning from ear to ear. Behind her was a tall, blue-haired woman¡ªE.


    "Papa!" Klee squealed, throwing herself into Lucas''s arms and nuzzling against his chest. "Good morning!"


    "Klee? E?" Lucas rubbed his sleepy eyes, still groggy. "What are you two doing here?"


    "Don''t get the wrong idea," E said with a haughty tilt of her head. "I''m not here for you. Klee wanted to visit, and I couldn''t let here alone, so I brought her."


    "Is this Papa''s room?" Klee asked excitedly, her eyes sparkling as she took in the surroundings. "Can I explore?"


    Children are always curious about new spaces, especially when it''s someone they care about.


    The room, a guest suite arranged by the Knights of Favonius, wasn''t as luxurious as the Goth Grand Hotel but was spacious enough for a small child to run around.


    "Such a waste of my time," E muttered, stepping into the room herself. She nced around, frowning. "Why isn''t there anywhere to sit?"


    "It''s a bedroom," Lucas exined. "There''s no need for extra chairs. If you don''t mind, feel free to sit on the bed. Can I get you something to drink?"


    "Hot cocoa!" Klee eximed, waving her hands.


    "Red tea for me," E said, making herselffortable on Lucas''s bed. "Preferably freshly picked from Wolvendom and brewed with dew water."


    "You think I''d have something like that here?" Lucas sighed, exasperated. "I''ve got regr tea."


    "Fine, I''ll settle for that," E huffed. "This is whatmoner life must be like."


    As Lucas headed to the kitchen, Klee explored every nook and cranny of the room, while E, bored, leaned back on her hands. Her fingers brushed against something soft, and she instinctively picked it up.


    Her face turned crimson. In her hand was a pair of men''s boxers.


    The fabric, made of silken thread from Qingce Vige, was embroidered in Liyue''s characteristic style. From the faint stretch marks, it was obvious they had just been worn.


    Normally, she would have thrown it aside in disgust. But realizing it belonged to Lucas, she inexplicably found herself lifting it closer to inspect it.


    Even from a distance, she caught a faint scent of sweat¡ªnot entirely unpleasant, though slightly sharp. Unbidden, she leaned closer and sniffed.


    Was this Lucas''s scent?


    E''s face burned hotter. As her mind whirled in embarrassment, the kitchen door suddenly opened.


    "Here''s the tea," Lucas said, stepping out with drinks in hand. He paused, noticing E sitting unnaturally stiff on the bed, her hands behind her back, her face as red as a sunset.


    "You okay?" he asked, puzzled. "You look... off."


    "N-nothing," E stammered, too flustered to discard the boxers, so she stuffed them into her pocket. "I''ve just... never been in a man''s room before."


    "Sorry about the mess," Lucas said, oblivious. "By the way, what brings you two here?"


    "Oh no! I almost forgot!" Klee suddenly raised her hand excitedly. "It''s Thursday! The Good Hunter restaurant has their special limited-edition Mondstadt meat pie today¡ªwith a free toy! Papa, let''s go get some!"


    "Alright, alright," Lucas said indulgently, patting her head. "I''ll take you. E, you''reing too, right? My treat."


    "I don''t need your charity," E said with a sniff, crossing her arms. "But I was nning to eat at the Good Hunter today, so I suppose I''ll join you."


    <strong>Mondstadt, Good Hunter Restaurant</strong>


    "Good day. May the Anemo Archon bless you," Sara, the waitress, greeted them with a warm smile. "What would you like to order?"


    "I''ll have a Mondstadt Meat Pie Combo!"


    "I''ll have a Mondstadt Meat Pie Combo!"


    Two voices spoke at once.


    Lucas turned to find himself face-to-face with a golden-haired girl standing at the counter beside him.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Guess who''s here...

 Chapter 146: Villain Simulator, Ch 145

    <h4>Chapter 146: Viin Simtor, Ch 145</h4>


    Lucas instinctively turned his head and was greeted by a strikingly beautiful face.


    The girl had short, pale golden hair that just brushed past her ears, though two longer strands trailed elegantly to her shoulders. Her white dress entuated her slender figure perfectly. While she appeared to be a textbook golden-haired beauty, her seemingly clear golden eyes betrayed a faint hint of... mischief.


    [Image here]


    "Are both of you here for the Mondstadt Special Meat Piebo?" Sara asked nervously, beads of sweat forming on her forehead. "Apologies, but it''s a limited item, and we only have one left today. Perhaps you can discuss who gets it?"


    Normally, Lucas would have yielded in such a situation, but Klee gently tugged on his sleeve, deploying her ultimate cute technique. "Papa... Klee really wants it..." she murmured, her eyes sparkling.


    "Traveler! Paimon wants one too!"


    Hovering beside the golden-haired girl, a small floating figure dressed in white flew in circles, her tone filled with indignation. "If we can''t get it,ing to Mondstadt would feel meaningless!"


    [Image here]


    Paimon? Lumine?


    Lucas'' heart skipped a beat as he scrutinized the duo more closely.


    Indeed, they were unmistakably identical to the Traveler and Paimon from the game he once yed. The resemnce was uncanny.


    Lucas couldn''t help but admit it¡ªyes, "she" was adorable.


    While real-life depictions often differ slightly from their two-dimensional counterparts, Paimon''s distinct appearance left no room for doubt.


    Still, Teyvat was a world of fantasy, so the presence of an otherworldly flying creature didn''t seem to surprise anyone nearby.


    The golden-haired girl¡ªLumine, Lucas now knew¡ªgave a polite nod before addressing him. "Excuse me, sir. Would you mind letting us have thebo?"


    "If it were just me, I''d dly give it up," Lucas replied with a rueful smile. "But as a father, I can''t bear to let my daughter down."


    With just one sentence, he seized the moral high ground.


    Unexpectedly, Paimon piped up with a serious expression, "If I get to eat the Mondstadt Special Meat Pie, I wouldn''t mind being Lumine''s daughter for a bit!"


    "I would mind!" Lumine eximed, pinching Paimon''s cheeks. Her gaze shifted skeptically between Lucas and Klee. "Are you really this child''s father? You''re not even the same species."


    That jab struck an emotional chord. Klee froze, her wide eyes filling with tears. "Klee... isn''t Papa''s daughter?" she quivered.


    "Of course, you are!" Lucas immediately scooped her into his arms,forting her. "Papa will buy you that meat pie right now."


    "In that case," Paimon interjected, full of confidence, "let''s settle this with a contest! Whoever wins at arm wrestling gets the meat pie!"


    Arm wrestling. A simple, straightforward way to determine the winner quickly.


    "Me, a grown man, arm-wrestling a girl?" Lucas scratched his cheek. "That doesn''t feel quite right."


    "It''s fine," Lumine said, patting her rather unimpressive biceps. "I''m confident in my strength."


    Contrary to her delicate appearance, Lumine''s power was anything but ordinary. ording to the game''s storyline, she had faced formidable foes¡ªdual-element Childe, three-element La Signora, and countless other trials¡ªwith growing prowess.


    "Alright, then," Lucas agreed, intrigued.


    He was curious to see how strong Lumine currently was. As a main character destined to advance the storyline, he was certain their paths would intertwine in the future.


    Lumine ced her elbow on the table, a yful yet serious glint in her eyes. "I''ll try not to dislocate your shoulder."


    It wasn''t a taunt¡ªit was genuine concern.


    "Thanks for the warning," Lucas replied, gripping her hand. Her palm felt smooth and soft, almost distractingly so.


    "Ahem! This is arm wrestling!" Paimon reminded them with narrowed eyes. "No funny business!"


    "Start!" Paimon dered.


    Lumine immediately exerted her strength. Lucas''s hand was pushed back slightly, and he raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    Got this. Lumine allowed herself a small smile of confidence. Yet, to her shock, her hand began to inch back toward the table¡ªslowly but surely.


    "Traveler! You can do it!" Paimon cheered from the side. "Think of the meat pie!"


    "Apologies in advance," Lucas said, his expression sharpening. A sudden wave of immense pressure radiated from him, and before Lumine could react, her hand mmed against the table.


    With a loud "crack," the table copsed under the strain, scattering fragments of wood across the floor.


    Themotion left the other diners stunned. Even Lumine and Paimon turned pale.


    "Looks like I narrowly won," Lucas said, dusting off his hands. He turned to Sara and asked, "One Mondstadt Special Meat Pie, please. How much?"


    "The meat pie is three hundred Mora..." Sara replied awkwardly. "But the table''s repair cost is five thousand Mora."


    What a ripoff...


    Lucas felt a pang of regret. Though he wasn''t short on funds, the expense still stung.


    "Sorry, Paimon," Lumine said with a sigh. "I guess we''ll have to settle for something else."


    "It''s okay! It''s okay!" Paimon said quickly, shaking her head. "As long as you''re not hurt, that''s what matters!"


    Despite her disappointment over the meat pie, Paimon''s priority was Lumine''s safety.


    "Do you want some of this?" Klee suddenly chimed in, tearing her oversized meat pie in half and handing a piece to Paimon with a smile. "Here, take half!"


    "R-really?" Paimon''s eyes sparkled with emotion.


    "Of course! I can''t finish it all anyway," Klee said generously. "Papa always says we should share."


    "Traveler," Paimon murmured, her voice trembling, "I think... I''ve seen an angel."


    But Lumine''s thoughts were elsewhere, her golden eyes fixed on Lucas.


    For a brief moment during their contest, she had felt an overwhelming presence¡ªone she hadn''t experienced since facing the Sustainer of Heavenly Principles.


    Could this man be hiding secrets? Could he hold clues about her brother?


    As Lumine pondered, a violent tremor shook the ground. A deafening crash followed, and a surge of wind ripped through the restaurant, tearing off its roof.


    The sudden chaos startled everyone. The heavy wooden beams of the restaurant''s ceiling began to copse, hurtling straight toward Lumine and Paimon.


    In the nick of time, Lucas dashed forward, using his arm to shield them from the falling debris.


    Lumine barely had a chance to thank him before E burst into the room, her face tense with urgency. "Everyone, find somewhere safe to hide! Stormterror is attacking the city! Lucas, we need to help evacuate the civilians!"


    "Understood!" Lucas immediately agreed, turning to Lumine. "Please take care of Klee for me!"


    [+500 Virtue Points!]


    Without hesitation, Lucas followed E outside. Sure enough, a massive emerald-blue dragon circled ominously in the sky, casting a dark shadow over the city below.


    Stormterror. The harbinger of the Dragon Disaster had arrived.


    [Image here]


    Compared to the dark dragon Durin, whom Lucas was more familiar with, Stormterror dwarfed its counterpart in sheer size and exuded a significantly stronger sense of dread.


    Once a proud guardian of the Four Winds and a favored servant of Barbatos, the Anemo Archon, Stormterror''s strength was said to rival Durin''s, who had once ravaged Mondstadt. Each of its assaults left catastrophic devastation in its wake.


    The streets of Mondstadt were now in chaos. Crowds of terrified citizens fled in all directions, their fearpounded by the scars Stormterror had left on their collective psyche.


    The Knights of Favonius worked tirelessly to evacuate the people, but the pandemonium was overwhelming.


    "Stormterror!"


    Amidst the fleeing crowd, a lone figure pushed forward against the tide, standing resolute in the dragon''s path. She drew the longsword at her side and pointed it at the monstrous creature, her voice cutting through the chaos. "In my capacity as Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, I issue you a final warning!"


    It was Jean¡ªfearless, steadfast, and unwavering.


    Though the disparity in power was stark, Jean stood firm to protect Mondstadt, defying her own fears to confront the beast.


    Stormterror seemed to understand her words, pausing its assault momentarily. Its massive head turned downward to scrutinize the diminutive human standing before it.


    "Leave Mondstadt!" Jeanmanded, suppressing her inner trepidation and withstanding the crushing pressure. "If you continue to harm this city, I swear upon the honor of the Knights of Favonius, we will hunt you down and bring you to justice, no matter the cost!"


    The Knights of Favonius had long debated how to deal with the "dragon disaster."


    Initially, the sporadic attacks were tolerable, but Stormterror''s incursions had grown more frequent and destructive, leaving Mondstadt with no choice but to act.


    To y Stormterror was an improbable endeavor. Sess, if achievable at all, woulde at an exorbitant price in lives and resources.


    But now, there was no retreat.


    Stormterror''s response was unambiguous. Its enormous jaws opened,pressing Anemo energy into several deadly wind bombs, which itunched directly into the densest cluster of civilians.


    "Not good!"


    Jean''s heart sank as she rushed forward, but she was toote.


    At that moment, Lucas appeared, stepping between the crowd and the iing attack. He raised a talisman in his hand and shouted, "Barrier! Activate!"


    A translucent dome shield enveloped the people, and the deadly wind bombs collided with its surface. The projectiles spun and churned violently, seeking to pierce the barrier.


    Had Lucas been alone, the wind bombs would have posed little threat¡ªhe could have dodged or countered them with ease. But creating a protective barrierrge enough to shield so many people required extraordinary effort.


    Talisman-based magic allowed the user to cast powerful techniques inscribed upon them, but the effectiveness of such techniques still depended on the user''s own strength.


    Therger the barrier, the thinner its defensive coverage. For Lucas to sustain such an expansive shield demonstrated his exceptional capabilities.


    "Damn it!" Lucas gritted his teeth, sweat beading on his brow. "Hold strong!"


    With a final roar of determination, he unleashed a surge of power. The wind bombs disintegrated into elemental fragments, scattering harmlessly into the air.


    Despite Lucas''s rapid growth in strength, Stormterror¡ªonce the cherished servant of Barbatos¡ªremained a force second only to the Archons. Even weakened by prolonged corruption, its might was formidable.


    Lucas took a deep breath and pulled out a glowing card from the void. "Your turn," he murmured. "Come forth, Blue-Eyes White Dragon!"


    The card in his hand shimmered brilliantly as an enormous magical array materialized in the air. From the array emerged a majestic silver dragon, its eyes glowing with a piercing azure light.


    [Image here]


    The Blue-Eyes White Dragon let out an ear-splitting roar before charging directly at Stormterror. Taken aback by the sudden appearance of another dragon, Stormterror failed to react in time and was struck squarely in the chest.


    The two titanic creatures engaged in an aerial sh, their blows sending shockwaves rippling through the sky.


    Initially startled by the Blue-Eyes White Dragon''s arrival, the citizens of Mondstadt soon realized it was battling Stormterror on their behalf.


    The enemy of their enemy was their friend.


    With this realization, the crowd erupted in cheers, rallying behind the silver dragon.


    However, as mighty as the Blue-Eyes White Dragon was, it struggled against Stormterror. If one were to quantify their power, the Blue-Eyes White Dragon''s stats might be 3000 ATK and 2500 DEF, whereas Stormterror''s were closer to 4000 in both.


    It wasn''t long before the Blue-Eyes White Dragon began to falter. Sensing the tide turning, Lucas issued a decisivemand.


    "Now! Use White Lightning!"


    Obeying its summoner, the Blue-Eyes White Dragon opened its jaws and unleashed a radiant beam of destructive energy. The beam narrowly missed Stormterror''s core but grazed its wing, leaving a deep, visible crack.


    Exhausted from the effort, the Blue-Eyes White Dragon dissolved into a cluster of glowing particles, retreating back into its card.


    Stormterror, now wounded, appeared to reassess its position. Realizing the tide had shifted, it let out an ear-piercing screech before pping its massive wings and retreating beyond Mondstadt''s borders.


    The city was momentarily safe.


    Yet the damage was done. Mondstadt''s streetsy in ruins, its citizens injured and shaken. The air was heavy with uncertainty.


    They had survived this attack, but what of the next?


    On a raised tform, Jean addressed the weary crowd, her voice resolute. "I bear responsibility for the suffering you have endured. As Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, I swear we will protect Mondstadt. To ensure our city''s safety, I hereby dere themencement of an official campaign to subdue Stormterror!"


    Mondstadt had endured long enough.


    Though its citizens were often carefree to the point of irresponsibility, their devotion to the ideal of freedom was unwavering.


    "Let''s show it who''s boss!"


    "I''ll join the fight!"


    "Captain Jean, we''re with you!"


    Jean''s promation reignited the morale of Mondstadt''s people.


    Stormterror''s terrifying power was undeniable, but it had crossed the line. The battle for freedom would be fought, regardless of the cost.


    ----


    Next extra Chapter at 2000 p.s

 Chapter 147: Villain Simulator, Ch 146

    <h4>Chapter 147: Viin Simtor, Ch 146</h4>


    Lucas gave Jean a thumbs-up, a wide grin on his face. "Well said! As expected of Acting Grand Master Jean! Count me in for the Stormterror campaign¡ªI''m here to help!"


    "That won''t do," Jean said, shaking her head immediately. "This operation will be extremely dangerous. I can''t drag you into this."


    It was true. Lucas wasn''t a member of the Knights of Favonius, nor was he even a Mondstadt citizen. He had no obligation to take part in this risky endeavor.


    "Come on, saying things like that now feels way too formal," Lucas replied with augh. "Aren''t we family?"


    "Fa... family?" Jean stammered, her face suddenly tinged with pink. "Is... is that how you see it?"


    What now?


    Could this be... a confession?


    While Jean did have a soft spot for Lucas, it felt too sudden to confirm anything after just a few days of knowing each other.


    "Of course," Lucas said matter-of-factly. "You''re Klee''s guardian, and I''m Klee''s dad. Doesn''t that make us like one big family?"


    "I... I see," Jean murmured, her gaze dropping slightly, a faint hint of disappointment flickering in her eyes. "In that case, I won''t stand on ceremony. With your help, our chances of defeating Stormterror will definitely improve."


    "I''ll do my best," Lucas promised. "When are we setting out?"


    "Though it goes against the knightly code to strike a wounded foe, now that Stormterror has been injured, this is the best opportunity to act," Jean said, her brows furrowing slightly. "We should set off tomorrow."


    Their target was the Tower, Stormterror''sir, located in Old Mondstadt¡ªthe once-thriving city ruled by the tyrant Decarabian, the Lord of the Tower.


    Roughly 2,600 years ago, the people of Old Mondstadt rose in rebellion under the banner of the Windblume. Overwhelmed by their fury, Decarabian perished in the Tower.


    And now, Mondstadt''s warriors wouldunch another assault on that historic stronghold.


    After finalizing their ns, Lucas and Jean parted ways.


    However, Lucas didn''t return to his quarters. Instead, he entered his Serenitea Pot.


    "Come forth, Blue-Eyes White Dragon."


    Answering his call, the Blue-Eyes White Dragon, still bearing the scars from its earlier battle, materialized before him.


    The majestic creature seemed genuinely pleased to see its master again, nuzzling its enormous head against Lucas''s body affectionately.


    "You''ve done well," Lucas said, his voice filled with both pride and concern as he examined the wounds on the dragon''s gleaming scales. "Let''s get you healed up."


    Before themy a spacious hot spring.


    Under Raiden Mai''s management, the facilities in the dimension had be increasinglyplete. The hot spring, one of her contributions, was not only perfect for rxation but also had potent healing properties.


    The Blue-Eyes White Dragon seemed to understand Lucas''s intentions. It stepped into the spring, immersing its massive frame in the soothing waters and letting out a low, contented rumble.


    "You''ve earned a break," Lucas said, relieved to see the dragon begin to recover. "Rest well here."


    As he turned to leave, the dragon gently blocked his path with its wing, nudging him toward the spring''s edge.


    "Wait... You''re saying I should join you?" Lucas asked, catching on.


    The dragon nodded its great head.


    "Alright, I guess I could use a little rxation too," Lucas said, chuckling. Without hesitation, he removed his clothing and stepped into the hot spring, leaning against the dragon''s side. The warmth of the water and the presence of his faithfulpanion lulled him into a deep and peaceful sleep.


    <strong>Meanwhile, at the Goth Grand Hotel, in the Doctor''s Room</strong>


    "So, you''ve heard the news too, I assume?" The Doctor toyed with the chess pieces on the board before her, her voice tinged with amusement. "That little Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius is actually nning to hunt down Stormterror."


    "And so what if she is?" Signora said, arching a brow. "Did you summon me here just to gossip?"


    "There''s an old Liyue saying: ''When the sandpiper and the m fight, the fisherman profits,''" the Doctor said, picking up two chess pieces and shing them together gently. "If the Knights of Favonius suffer heavy losses or arepletely wiped out in this campaign, Mondstadt will be left leaderless¡ªa prime opportunity for Snezhnaya to infiltrate."


    "And if they aren''t wiped out?" Signora countered, unimpressed. "You seem to underestimate those Mondstadt fools. Stormterror is strong, but it may not be enough to finish them off."


    "Which is why we''ll lend a little... assistance," the Doctor said with a sinister smile, crushing the two chess pieces in her hand. The fragments trickled through her fingers. "Even if they seed, they''ll be severely weakened. With your power, eliminating the remnants would be child''s y."


    "I refuse," Signora said coldly. "I''m not interested in such underhanded schemes. And besides, I only follow orders from Her Majesty the Tsaritsa¡ªyou have no authority tomand me."


    "Such ingratitude. I''m offering you a prime opportunity to earn merit," the Doctor replied with a shrug, as if expecting her refusal. "Oh well, I suppose I''ll have to send someone else."


    "Someone else?" Signora sneered. "You mean Scaramouche? She''s already left Mondstadt, hasn''t she? Even if she were here, she wouldn''t take orders from you."


    "I wasn''t nning to use her," the Doctor said, her smirk widening. "After all, she still requires some fine-tuning as an experiment." She pped her hands. "Come out, my masterpiece."


    From the shadows of the room emerged a young girl with jet-ck hair and reptilian slit-pupil eyes. She wore a custombat suit, and though the lower half of her face was concealed by a metallic mask, her beauty was unmistakable. Two ck horns jutted from her head, and the oppressive aura she exuded was enough to make anyone uneasy.


    [Image here]


    Signora instinctively took a step back. "What... is that?"


    "No need to be rmed. She''s quite obedient," the Doctor said, draping an arm around the girl''s shoulders, a delighted gleam in her eyes. "Remember the dragon that attacked Crepus four years ago?"


    Crepus Ragnvindr, the former master of Dawn Winery and Diluc''s father, had sacrificed himself to repel a monstrous dragon using the power of a Delusion. Though the dragon was driven off, Crepus had sumbed to the Delusion''s bacsh.


    "The demon dragon Ursa?" Signora said, realization dawning. "Didn''t Crepus heavily injure it back then?"


    "Indeed," the Doctor replied smugly. "I found her and spent four years transforming her into my ultimate weapon. Since you won''t act, she will."


    "You''re insane," Signora said, turning to leave. "Do what you want. Just don''t let this spiral out of control."


    "Rx. I always handle things with the utmost precision," the Doctor said, her smile widening as she watched her go. Turning to the girl, she gently patted her cheek. "Through you, I''ll prove that among all the ''segments,'' I am the most perfect."


    <strong>In the Teapot Dimension</strong>


    Lucas awoke slowly, feeling incredibly refreshed. As he stirred, he realized he was resting on something incredibly soft. Thefort was so overwhelming that it had lulled him into a dreamless slumber.


    A silver braid brushed against his neck, snapping him to attention. Turning his head, he found himself leaning against the ample chest of a voluptuous silver-haired woman sitting behind him, her arms draped around his torso.


    The "pillow" he had been resting on needed no further exnation.


    So this was a dream, after all...


    "Master... are you awake?" the silver-haired woman whispered into his ear, her breath warm. "Or would you like to rest a little longer?"


    "Eh?"


    Lucas blinked in surprise as the realization hit him¡ªthis wasn''t a dream. He scrambled to his feet, staring at the silver-haired woman before him in shock. "Who... who are you?"


    "My name is Kisara," she said softly, her cerulean eyes glimmering as she smiled. "I am the vessel of the Blue-Eyes White Dragon."


    [Image here]


    "You''re... the Blue-Eyes White Dragon?" Lucas asked, finally noticing the faint scars on her body¡ªmatching those his dragon had sustained in the earlier battle.


    "In a broad sense, yes," Kisara replied with a nod. "More urately, the Blue-Eyes White Dragon is my primordial soul."


    To prove her point, Kisara concentrated briefly, and a shimmering image of the majestic silver dragon appeared behind her.


    Well, if a demon dragon like Ursa could take the form of a beautiful girl, it wasn''t exactly far-fetched for the Blue-Eyes White Dragon to do the same.


    Though startled initially, Lucas quickly epted the situation. After all, he''d encountered far stranger things on his journey.


    "Honestly, that''s fine," Lucas said, scratching the back of his head. "If it gets too lonely inside the card, feel free to stay here and live with us."


    "Just as I thought..." Kisara''s voice softened, her gaze warm. "Master truly is a kind person."


    Kind?


    Lucas had always considered himself a pushover¡ªa bit of a soft-hearted "yasashii" type. But the fact that he could still retain his goodness after experiencing so many cruel and twisted lives? That was nothing short of extraordinary.


    "Even if you say that," Lucas replied, waving her off, "I won''t hesitate to summon you to battle if needed."


    "To serve you in battle is my greatest honor," Kisara said firmly, then hesitated. "But I''d prefer not to fight the emerald dragon. I can hear her cries of anguish. If possible, I hope you can save her."


    Ah, so it was a case of <strong>girl-help-girl</strong> or perhaps <strong>dragon-help-dragon.</strong>


    As expected from the storyline, Stormterror¡ªonce known as Dvalin¡ªhad been driven mad due to Durin''s corrupted blood. Kisara''s empathy likely stemmed from their shared draconic heritage.


    "If I can, I''ll try to restore her sanity," Lucas promised. "If you don''t wish to fight her, I won''t force you. Besides, your injuries won''t heal that quickly, right?"


    "There is a method to heal an Apostle''s wounds swiftly," Kisara said, her cheeks reddening slightly. "But... it would require a bit of effort from you, Master."


    "Effort?" Lucas pped a hand to his chest with a confident grin. "Come on, there''s no need to be polite! If it''ll help you recover faster, I''m all in."


    After all, her injuries were a result of aiding him in battle.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Sorry forte Chapter I was out somewhere... Also worry not, we''ll torture doctor together ??

 Chapter 148: Villain Simulator, Ch 147

    <h4>Chapter 148: Viin Simtor, Ch 147</h4>


    <strong>Small R-18 scene</strong>


    At his question, she smiled, wickedly.


    "It''s quite simple. All I need is your essence!" she eximed.


    "Huh?"


    Before he could react to this absurd statement, she brought a chair and made him sit down.


    Then she knelt before him.


    Kisara was very beautiful, a long, flowing mane of white hair practically like a halo around her head, framing those magnificent blue eyes.


    Today, She had been hurt, and so she had to get Lucas'' essence to recover. It wasn''t too hard really - all she had to do was blow him off, and his essence would be hers. However, as she knelt before him in the hotspring, full lips wrapped around his cock, Lucas couldn''t help but feel a rush of pleasure.


    Kisara''s tongue curled around his cockhead, sending waves of excitement through him. She had no idea what she was doing so was very awkward, but Lucas couldn''t help but be captivated by the attempts of this beauty. He reached down and felt his fingers stroking her hair, amazed by its silky smooth texture.


    Kisara''s eyes looked up at him, and Lucas could feel the hunger in them. She wanted his essence, and she was going to do whatever it took to get it. She took him deeper into her mouth, her lips spreading wide around his girth. Lucas couldn''t help himself but groan at the sensation, his hips thrusting forward involuntarily.


    Kisara''s hands were on his thighs, her fingers digging into his flesh as she sucked and licked at his cock. Lucas could feel the orgasm building inside him, and he knew he wasn''t going to be able to hold back much longer.


    She was pulling back just as he was about to cum, so his lips left her cock with a wet pop. He met her gaze; there was a fierce intensity in her eyes.


    He grabbed her head, pulling her back down onto his cock, his hips thrusting upwards as he emptied himself into her waiting mouth. Kisara swallowed every drop, her eyes never leaving his as she did so.


    When she was done, Kisara retreated and smiled up at him, her lips stained by his essence


    <strong>Thirty minutester</strong>


    Lucas sat with his head lowered, his expression a mix of difort and bewilderment. "Um... are you sure this is really helping?"


    Kisara''s response was a muffled, "Mm... just a bit more..."


    <strong>One hourter</strong>


    Lucas nced up awkwardly. "Still... still not done?"


    "Shh... almost there," Kisara said soothingly, her voice patient.


    <strong>An hour and a halfter</strong>


    Lucas twirled one of Kisara''s silver braids between his fingers, a contemtive look on his face. "Is this pace alright?"


    "Please, Master," Kisara urged gently. "Maintain it."


    <strong>Two hourster</strong>


    Lucas rubbed his lower back with a wry smile, hisplexion pale. "I must admit... this is exhausting."


    Though the process had been arduous, Lucas knew he bore some responsibility. The healing method relied on the "essence," and the extended duration had been his own doing.


    But Kisara had spoken true¡ªher wounds werepletely healed, and her skin now shone with a radiant luster.


    "Thank you for your efforts, Master," Kisara said, a trace of satisfaction lingering in her voice. "I can now fight with my full strength if needed."


    "But why does this method work in the first ce?" Lucas still looked confused. "Why is my... uh... essence capable of healing your injuries?"


    "As my master, our souls are connected on a fundamental level," Kisara exined. "Your ''spiritual essence'' is the ideal nourishment for my recovery."


    What kind of <i>shounen protagonist</i> nonsense was this?


    It seemed ridiculous at first, but upon reflection, it made a certain amount of sense.


    Of course, this didn''t mean Lucas could recklessly use summoned entities in battle without concern for their well-being. If he relied on this healing method too often, his summons might thrive, but he himself might copse.


    Lucas couldn''t help but feel a newfound respect for his simtor self.


    Kamuna Harunosuke, after all, had seven primary shikigami at hismand, not to mention countless others for minor errands. If he had to heal all their wounds this way, the man would have been drained dry.


    <strong>Truly a living legend.</strong>


    After introducing Kisara to Raiden Mai and ensuring she was settling into the pocket dimension, Lucas finally left.


    Mai, as always, remained unruffled. After all, her master had already moved an entire castle into the pocket realm,plete with a bizarrely-dressed little girl and a crow that insisted on crowing three times every morning at the crack of dawn.


    These days, watching the chieftain of the hilichurl tribe argue with Oz across the river had be a daily spectacle.


    <strong>Meanwhile, at the Knights of Favonius Headquarters</strong>


    In the meeting room, the long table was nked by key figures from the Knights. The discussion? None other than the uing campaign against Stormterror.


    Even the typically absent Lisa, who was still on leave, had been summoned to attend.


    A well-known saying circted among the Knights: <i>If even Lisa is at a meeting, then the situation must be dire.</i>


    "As summarized, while I have always opposed fighting Stormterror, it has crossed Mondstadt''s final line," Jean dered, exhaling deeply. "This campaign is no longer optional. The arrow is nocked, and we cannot retreat."


    Jean paused before continuing, her gaze resolute. "The purpose of today''s meeting is to finalize the roster for the expedition. Due to the danger, participation will be strictly voluntary. As Acting Grand Master, I will personally lead the charge."


    "Yawn..." Lisa stretchednguidly, a mischievous smile on her lips. "With everyone so fired up, I suppose I''ll..."


    ---


    Author''s Note: Yeah sorry, I <i><strong>suck</strong></i> at adding those scenes and also used AI a bit.


    Can only try to improve next time, I guess.


    Oh this the extra Chapter btw

 Chapter 149: Villain Simulator, Ch 148

    <h4>Chapter 149: Viin Simtor, Ch 148</h4>


    Lisa stretched leisurely and gave Jean a knowing look. "Jean, dear, I think you''d better leave me out of this one," she said, her usualid-back tone taking on a note of amusement. "This is shaping up to be quite the dangerous little venture, and someone has to stay behind to keep Mondstadt in one piece."


    Jean nodded seriously. "Precisely why I''m asking you to remain in the city. With the Knights focusing on the expedition, Mondstadt''s defenses will be weaker than ever. Someone reliable must oversee things here, and I can''t think of anyone better."


    Despite Lisa''s oftenckadaisical attitude, Jean knew that she was one of the Knights'' strongest assets. Having Lisa hold down the fort would provide a much-needed safety.


    "I''ll volunteer!"


    A lively voice rang out as a girl with chestnut hair, golden eyes, and goggles on her head jumped to her feet. "Acting Grand Master Jean! Outrider Amber reporting for duty!"


    "Don''t even think about it."


    A cool voice came from beside her as a tall, blue-haired girl pressed a firm hand on Amber''s shoulder, pushing her back into her seat. "Reconnaissance isn''t the same as front-linebat. Leave this to the professionals."


    "E... are you worried about me?" Amber looked up at her with wide, sparkling eyes, her expression melting into one of heartfelt gratitude. "You''re the best partner ever!"


    "Don''t say such silly things..." E muttered, her expression tightening as she pushed Amber away, her lips curling into a wry smile. "For all you know, I could use this opportunity to get rid of Acting Grand Master Jean."


    Though many in Mondstadt harbored suspicions about E due to her lineage as a Lawrence, those who worked closely with her knew her true character. The Knights chuckled softly at her self-deprecating humor, the tension in the room easing a little.


    With that brief moment of levity, the roster for the expedition was finalized.


    "Everyone, I''m counting on you!" Jean dered, drawing her sword with a resolute gleam in her eyes. "For Mondstadt! For freedom!"


    The assembled Knights stood as one, raising their swords in a shared oath.


    But just as E unsheathed her own weapon, a small cloth object fluttered from her belt andnded lightly on the conference table.


    The room fell into silence.


    Everyone stared at it, eyes widening in unison¡ªit was a pair of men''s boxer shorts, embroidered with a dragon motif and exuding a mboyant ir.


    An awkward stillness hung in the air.


    The implications were clear: E had a boyfriend and was carrying around something as personal as his underwear.


    "AAAAHHH!"


    E''s face flushed bright red as she drew her ymore, mming it down with a thunderous crash that splintered both the offending garment and the conference table into countless fragments. She shouted, "This destruction will mirror the end of Stormterror!"


    The Knights immediately picked up on her intent, collectively pretending they had seen nothing. Only Jean looked troubled, her brow furrowed as she stared at the shattered table.


    After all, that embroidery looked distinctly like Liyue craftsmanship. Who else could it belong to but Lucas?


    <strong>Nightfall</strong>


    At Lucas'' temporary quarters, a soft <i>click</i> broke the silence as a window swung open.


    A tall figure cloaked in shadows slipped inside, bringing with her a faint chill. The intruder, with flowing silver hair and a half-mask concealing her face, was none other than the 8th Fatui Harbinger, La Signora.


    Signora''s spies had confirmed Lucas''s participation in the expedition against Stormterror. While she had rejected the Doctor''s proposal, she couldn''t shake her concern¡ªafter all, the modified weapon known as "Ursa" radiated a sinister aura that even she found unsettling.


    Still, her pride wouldn''t allow her to meet Lucas face-to-face again, especially after vowing never to see him. Thus, she had written an anonymous letter to dissuade him from joining the mission.


    "So, this is his room..." she murmured, her sharp gaze scanning the space. Even in the dim light, her vision was clear and precise.


    Pulling the letter from her cloak, Signora exhaled softly. But just as she ced it down, a sudden gust of wind blew the window shut with a loud <i>bang.</i>


    And then¡ªfate''s cruel sense of humor¡ªa series of approaching footsteps echoed from outside the door.


    Lucas entered the room, flipping on the lights and opening the window again to let in some air.


    Unbeknownst to him, a hint of crimson fabric had disappeared into the gap of his wardrobe door.


    Signora, caught off guard by Lucas'' early return, had no choice but to conceal herself inside the closet.


    While spacious, the wardrobe still felt stifling given Signora''s tall and curvaceous figure. She barely dared to breathe, aware that any motion might cause the door to burst open.


    <i>Damn it...</i> Signora thought, gritting her teeth. <i>Why did he have toe back so soon?</i>


    Hiding in the wardrobe, Signora found herself at a loss. She could march out boldly and exin herself, but how could she justify breaking into his room when she had sworn never to meet him again?


    Her pride wouldn''t allow it. The only option was to wait for Lucas to fall asleep and then make her escape.


    But then, Lucas stepped toward the wardrobe, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I know you''re in there."


    Signora''s breath hitched. <i>Did he... already notice me?</i>


    "I suggest youe out on your own," Lucas teased. "Or else I might have to spank you."


    <i>What?!</i>


    Signora''s face turned bright red. The tone in his voice carried an unmistakable yfulness, yet the words were undeniably suggestive.


    Debating whether to reveal herself, she heard Lucas continue. "Alright, I''m just kidding. Bute on out¡ªI''ll feed you well, give you milk until your little mouth is full, and then let you go. How about that?"


    Her blush deepened, her skin practically glowing with embarrassment. What on earth was this man talking about?


    Just as Signora resolved to step out and confront him, she heard a small, distinct <i>meow.</i>


    Reaching down, Lucas pulled a plump orange tabby cat from beneath the wardrobe.


    "Gotcha," he said, grinning at the chubby feline. "Stealing food again, huh?"


    The realization hit Signora like a wave of relief. <i>It was just a stray cat...</i> But inexplicably, a faint sense of disappointment settled in her chest.


    After feeding the orange tabby and letting it go, Lucas stretched and yawned. "Big day tomorrow," he muttered. "Better turn in early."


    Hearing this, Signora rxed. She could finally n her exit¡ªuntil another knock sounded at the door.


    <i>You''ve got to be kidding me!</i> she fumed silently. <i>How am I supposed to get out of here now?</i>


    From her vantage point inside the wardrobe, she couldn''t see much, but her sharp ears picked up the voice of the new arrival.


    It was a girl.


    Lucas'' heart skipped a beat as he saw two figures standing at the door. It was Lumine and Paimon¡ªthe same duo he had met earlier in the day.


    When Stormterror attacked the city, Lucas had been too preupied with protecting civilians to talk to them for long, yet here they were now.


    <i>Does everyone in Mondstadt know where I''m staying?</i> he thought incredulously.


    Sensing his confusion, Lumine smiled apologetically. "Sorry to bother you sote. I asked Klee for your address."


    "What''s the matter?" Lucas asked directly.


    "Aren''t you going to invite us in first?" Paimon interjected, clearly at ease. "We''ve got serious business to discuss!"


    "Of course," Lucas replied with a smile, stepping aside to let them in. "Please,e in."


    "This feels amazing!" Paimon eximed as she plopped onto Lucas''s bed, a blissful expression on her face. "It''s been so long since I''ve slept on an actual bed."


    "Wait, what?" Lucas asked, bemused. "Where have you been sleeping?"


    "Mostly... outside," Lumine said with a sigh. "Mondstadt is the first city we''ve entered."


    <i>So it''s the same as in the game,</i> Lucas thought. As the protagonist, Lumine was exploring the seven nations in search of her brother, with Mondstadt being her first stop.


    "That sounds... tough," Lucas said awkwardly. "So, what brings you here?"


    "I heard you''re joining the expedition against Stormterror tomorrow," Lumine said seriously. "I''d like to join you and help in the battle."


    "That''s a dangerous mission," Lucas replied, frowning. "Why risk your life? You''re not even from Mondstadt."


    "We''re not helping for free," Paimon chimed in. "In return, we want a favor."


    Lucas eyed them thoughtfully, already having a good idea of what they might want.


    "I''m looking for my missing brother," Lumine admitted, her gaze softening with sadness. "Someone as strong as you might be able to help me find some clues."


    Lucas folded his arms, considering her words. "Returning a favor like that isn''t a problem, but I''m curious... why choose me, of all people?"


    Having gone through many simtions, Lucas had learned that most "coincidences" were anything but. Lumine wouldn''t have chosen him on a whim after a brief encounter.


    "Because..." Lumine hesitated, then smiled shyly. "I think you''re a good person."


    <i>Wow, a Good Person Card before I even confess?</i> Lucas thought dryly.


    "Don''t get me wrong," Lumine quickly added. "I just feel like you wouldn''t refuse me. This world is still so unfamiliar to me. Of course, if you want to say no, that''s fine too. I''ll still help tomorrow."


    "Yeah!" Paimon grinned. "Consider it paying you back for that half a meat pie!"


    Meanwhile, in the closet, Signora was silently panicking.


    <i>Don''t agree. Whatever you do, don''t agree!</i>


    She knew full well that the Doctor''s n left no survivors. Not the Knights, nor any outsiders helping them¡ªeveryone would be targeted by his terrifying creation.


    "I''ll help you."


    Despite her silent pleas, Lucas nodded. "I don''t have many leads, but if I find anything, I''ll let you know."


    "Really?" Lumine''s face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you! I''ll definitely repay this kindness."


    Lucas wasn''t just agreeing because he couldn''t refuse people. As the protagonist of the original story, Lumine was undoubtedly tied to extraordinary events. Befriending her was likely to bring more benefits than drawbacks.


    Of course, there was also a more personal reason.


    <i>I used to y the game with a female avatar too,</i> Lucas thought. <i>And let''s be honest¡ªwhether it''s treating her as a daughter or as waifu material, there''s no way I''d leave her hanging.</i>


    "Let''s meet tomorrow at the city gates," Lucas said, noticing thete hour.


    "No problem!" Paimon said cheerfully. "We''ll sleep there and wake up bright and early. We won''t bete!"


    "Sleep there?" Lucas asked, puzzled. "I don''t think there''s an inn near the city gates."


    "We don''t need an inn," Lumine said with a resigned smile. "There''s a vacant lot nearby. We''ll pitch a tent."


    "Yep!" Paimon added, hands on her hips. "The food here in Mondstadt is just too delicious. We spent all our Mora on it!"


    "And you''re proud of that?!" Lumine scolded, grabbing Paimon''s chubby cheeks. "We could''ve stayed in a proper house tonight if it weren''t for you!"


    It seemed that, like yers just starting the game, Lumine was still struggling financially. Unlike the game, however, ying Hilichurls in real life didn''t drop Mora, and early materials weren''t worth much.


    "Well, if you don''t mind..." Lucas scratched his cheek, looking a little embarrassed. "I have a spare room. You''re wee to stay here."


    "We don''t mind at all!" Lumine and Paimon said in unison.


    "I knew it!" Paimon said smugly. "There''s no way someone as nice as you would let cute girls sleep outside. Finally, a real bed!"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 150: Villain Simulator, Ch 149

    <h4>Chapter 150: Viin Simtor, Ch 149</h4>


    "Also, you can take a bath."


    Lumine nodded. "Finally, a hot bath."


    For some reason, Lucas felt as if he was being calcted against.


    ...


    Late at night.


    "Creak..."


    With a faint sound, Signora gently pushed open the wardrobe door. Having stood inside for so long, her legs were somewhat numb.


    She looked at the anonymous letter in her hand. Due to the urgency earlier, she hadn''t had the chance to put it down.


    Tiptoeing, she moved to the bedside, intending to ce the letter on the nightstand. However, worried Lucas might not notice it, she deliberated for a moment before deciding to ce it directly on his chest.


    Gazing at his sleeping face, Signora felt a mixture of emotions.


    "This will truly be thest time I see you." The usually cold and ruthless eighth Harbinger gently brushed Lucas''s cheek with her fingertips. Who would have thought that her face could show such tender affection? "Goodbye... no, let''s not meet again."


    The window was right next to the bed. To minimize noise, Signora had to crouch her tall frame, moving like a sleek panther as she climbed onto the bed toward the window.


    Fortunately, Lucas had the habit of sleeping with the window open; otherwise, someone as perceptive as him would definitely have woken up to the noise at such close range.


    The window wasn''t a side-hinged one but a vertical sliding type, with a noticeable frictional sound when being opened.


    Signora ced her hands on the windowsill and leaned her upper body out. However, at that moment, arge figure blocked her way.


    It was none other than the plump orange cat Lucas had fed earlier.


    This cat seemed rather loyal, apparently patrolling in gratitude for being fed. Spotting a stranger sneaking out of its benefactor''s home, the cat immediately hissed at Signora.


    "Get lost..."


    Signora hissed in a low tone. Her usual killing intent would have made any ordinary animal instinctively back off. However, the orange cat was unfazed. With a powerful leap, it jumped onto the windowsill and nudged the windowtch closed with its weight.


    With a "thud," the window mmed shut, trapping Signora''s slender waist between the frame.


    Signora winced in pain but dared not make a sound, quickly covering her mouth with her hand.


    To make matters worse, her body was now half inside and half outside, stuck in the window frame.


    The orange cat, meanwhile, gave Signora a disdainful nce, flicked its thick tail, and sauntered off leisurely.


    "Damn you, fat cat..." Signora gritted her teeth. "Don''t let me catch you, or... huh?"


    Suddenly, Signora felt something pressing against her waist.


    She quickly turned her head and saw Lucas kneeling behind her. Through the dusty ss of the window, she could make out that his eyes were still closed.


    Was he sleepwalking?


    Or was he doing this on purpose?


    Uncertain of the truth, Signora didn''t dare to make a sound. Despite thete hour, there were still a few scattered passersby visible on the street.


    If she were seen in this position, her reputation as a Harbinger would bepletely ruined.


    In fact, Lucas wasn''t sleepwalking, nor was he fully awake. He was in a half-dreaming state.


    Someone of his level of ability often developed a form of self-defense mechanism, where even in unconscious sleep, they reacted to changes in their surroundings.


    Of course, the response depended on the situation. If an enemy approached, Lucas would instinctively enterbat mode to defend himself.


    But if it was...


    A Lady stuck in the window?


    The oue was self-evident. In his semi-conscious state, Lucas was experiencing a vivid dream where he was back in the simtor, engaged in a Harbinger sparring session with Signora.


    The actions in his dream and reality were strangely synchronized.


    As for Signora, she could only cover her mouth with one hand and hold onto the windowsill with the other, desperately maintaining her bnce.


    Damn it, you''d better really be sleepwalking, or else...


    I swear... I won''t let you off!


    "Ugh..."


    At that moment, a groggy Lumine stumbled out of the room, rubbing her sleepy eyes and mumbling, "Bathroom..."


    However, upon witnessing the scene in front of her, Lumine''s eyes widened. After a brief three-second pause, she silently turned around and returned to her room.


    Then, she got back into bed, pulled the nket over her head, and muttered to herself, "It''s just a dream, just a dream..."


    ...


    The next morning.


    "Time to wake up!"


    Lucas stretchedzily but was bewildered to find himself waking up leaning against the windowsill.


    Didn''t I fall asleep properly in bed?


    Since when did my sleeping posture get this bad?


    "Strange, why is the window closed?" Lucas reached to lift the window for some fresh air but noticed a strip of deep red silk stuck beneath it, fluttering lightly in the morning breeze.


    ---


    "What is this...?"


    Lucas rubbed the silk between his fingers, finding it smooth and luxurious, clearly made from high-quality fabric. He had no idea how it ended up here.


    Maybe it was blown in by the wind, or perhaps that fat orange cat brought it.


    Thinking no more of it, he casually tucked the silk away. What he didn''t notice was that a letter, bearing faint marks from being crushed and rubbed, had slipped into the gap in his bedframe.


    "Lumine, Paimon, wake up." Lucas knocked lightly on the door of the inner room. "It''s almost time to meet up."


    About half a minuteter, the door opened slightly, revealing Lumine''s face. For some reason, she looked utterly drained, with pronounced dark circles under her eyes.


    "Are... you okay?" Lucas asked in confusion. "Didn''t sleep well?"


    "It''s... nothing..." Lumine replied with a somewhat ambiguous gaze, mumbling, "Just had a really strange dream I haven''t recovered from yet."


    In contrast, Paimon appeared full of energy, cing her hands on her hips as she asked, "What kind of dream was it?"


    "It was..." Lumine nced at Lucas, her mind involuntarily reying the scene fromst night. Shaking her head, she said, "Two Hilichurls wrestling."


    She still couldn''t tell whetherst night''s events were real or a dream. All she knew for sure was that it was... unforgettable.


    "Two Hilichurls wrestling? That''s definitely odd." Lucas chuckled awkwardly. "Don''t dwell on strange dreams. Let''s have breakfast and then head out. My treat today."


    "Yay!" Paimon cheered, throwing up her hands. "From now on, you''re officially Paimon''s second-bestpanion!"


    "Paimon..." Lumine''s heart warmed at thisment.


    It seemed this little glutton did have a conscience after all. She wasn''t pampering her in vain.


    "Sweet Madame and Mondstadt Specialty Meat Pies are tied for 1st ce!" Paimon added smugly.


    "Give me back my sentimentality!" Lumine pressed her thumbs into Paimon''s temples and gave them a sharp twist.


    "Help... help me!"


    Paimon''s cries became part of Mondstadt''s morning symphony.


    Apart from the still-drowsy Lumine, Signora who had recently "escaped" the scene, and the fearless fat orange cat, perhaps no one would ever know how intensest night''s "battle" had been.


    At Mondstadt''s city gate, the dragon subjugation squad had assembled.


    The group was small; against an enemy like the Stormterror, sheer numbers were meaningless. Ordinary Knights of Favonius couldn''t even pierce its tough scales. The primary fighters remained the elite Vision bearers.


    Acting Grand Master Jean, Vanguard Captain E, and Cavalry Captain Kaeya were the main forces from the Knights of Favonius. Klee, though eager to join, was firmly turned down by both Lucas and Jean.


    Another potent fighter, Chief Alchemist Albedo, was unfortunately absent from Mondstadt and thus unable to participate.


    As for external support, aside from Lucas and Lumine, the team also included a handful of volunteer adventurers. While some civilians had expressed a willingness to help, Jean''s conscientious nature and sense of duty made it impossible for her to allow nobatants to risk their lives.


    Even with this lineup, it was clear that Mondstadt''s forces were stretched thin.


    If a simr event urred in Liyue, there wouldn''t even be a need for a subjugation squad. Someone like Ganyu could probably handle it solo and still make it back in time for lunch.


    Of course, no nation would easily request foreign aid unless absolutely necessary. Despite its rtively weaker military, Mondstadt needed to maintain its dignity. Thest time they had sought assistance from the Fatui to deal with the dragon Ursa, Mondstadt''s diplomacy with Snezhnaya suffered greatly. Jean was determined not to let history repeat itself.


    "Kind sir, would you like to buy a charm? It will bless your journey with safety."


    Just as the squad was preparing to depart, an elderly woman with a hunched figure unexpectedly approached Lucas. In her gnarled hands was a bamboo basket filled with exquisitely crafted charms.


    Given Lucas''s current level of power, it was nearly impossible for someone to approach him unnoticed. Yet, this old woman seemed to have appeared out of nowhere.


    "Thank you for your blessings," Lucas said with a smile, not overthinking it. "I''ll buy one."


    "Take this one." The old woman handed him a charm, her raspy voice soft. "It contains Qingxin flowers. Wearing it will clear your mind and brighten your vision. It''s just 500 Mora."


    Lucas caught a glimpse of her arm as she handed over the charm. Strangely, the exposed part of her arm appeared smooth and pale, inconsistent with her weathered hands and wrinkled face.


    When he snapped out of his thoughts, however, the old woman was already walking away.


    "Don''t stare; it''s just a disguise," said a short Knight of Favonius standing beside Lucas. The voice was familiar, and when the knight lifted their visor, a pair of mischievous green eyes met Lucas''s.


    "Venti?" Lucas was taken aback. "What''s with the outfit?"


    "Shh!" Venti hastily lowered the visor again, whispering, "A few nights ago, I got mistaken for a lyre thief and ended up locked up by that little girl from the Lawrence family. I had to use some tricks to escape."


    Although Venti didn''t borate, Lucas could easily guess what kind of tricks he meant.


    "So, I''m keeping a low profile," Venti added. "This time, I''m joining you to the ruins of the Stormterror''s Lair. If possible, I want to make onest attempt to awaken Dvalin''s consciousness."


    Stormterror Dvalin had once been apanion of the Anemo Archon. Clearly, Venti wasn''t ready to give up on him.


    "Understood..." Lucas sighed. "I''ll cover for you, but don''t blow your cover."


    "Thank you, my dear friend!" Venti said gratefully. "I''ll be sure to repay you someday!"


    With what?


    Given how he and Morax, two gods, together couldn''t scrape up a single Mora, Lucas wasn''t holding his breath.


    "No time for chatting! Get ready to move!" E approached, casting a suspicious nce at Venti. "Who are you? I don''t think I''ve seen you before."


    Due to her background, E wasn''t particrly close to other members of the Knights of Favonius. Aside from her reconnaissance squad, she didn''t know many others. But given the rigorous recruitment standards of the Knights, the sight of this scrawny, ill-fitting "knight" made her naturally suspicious.


    "Hey." E''s wariness grew as Venti remained silent. "Take off your helmet. Let me see your face."


    If E recognized Venti, not only would he fail to help with the mission, but he''d probably end up back in custody.


    In the nick of time, Lucas threw an arm around Venti''s shoulders andughed. "You forgot? This is Dewin, a new recruit. He was the one who helped me find my way when I visited the headquarters the other day."


    Venti immediately nodded fervently, ying along.


    E stroked her chin thoughtfully before frowning. "Stand straighter and puff out your chest. Remember, all eyes will be on us during this expedition."


    Apart from the citizens of Mondstadt, it was almost certain that the Fatui would be watching from the shadows.


    "E!" Lucas called out, stopping her as she was about to leave. Patting her shoulder, he smiled. "Do your best this time. If you can help end the dragon crisis, people will change their opinion of you."


    E''s cheeks turned slightly pink, but she quickly masked her reaction with feigned indifference. "Hmph, I don''t care what others think of me!"


    With that, she turned to leave, muttering under her breath, "As long as you keep watching me, that''s enough."


    With the sound of a horn, the city gates creaked open. The dragon subjugation squad began their march.


    At the front, Jean, d in her dashing riding outfit, raised her voice with conviction: "We shall win this battle! Victory or nothing!"


    ---


    Author''s note: Well since the reset so... lets go with 200 p.s for extra Chapter today!


    Also join my discord server if you want... Discord.gg/NiaXD


    tho its pretty dead most of the time I drop spoilers and stuff from time to time. Ik you wouldn''t want to remember some random discord code so I got vanity :D

 Chapter 151: Villain Simulator, Ch 150

    <h4>Chapter 151: Viin Simtor, Ch 150</h4>


    "This battle will be a swift victory¡ªreturning undefeated!"


    It didn''t need an borate speech; these eight words were enough to showcase their determination.


    "No wonder Varka chose her as Acting Grand Master," murmured Venti, who was standing beside Lucas. "Jean and <i>that woman</i> are so alike."


    "That woman?" Lucas caught the hint and asked, "Are you talking about Vennessa?"


    "You actually know about her?" Venti looked surprised. "For an outsider, it seems you''ve studied Mondstadt''s history quite well."


    "I''ve learned a little," Lucas replied with an awkward chuckle.


    A little? More like he had rewritten it.


    In the simtor¡ªor rather, in a parallel world¡ªVennessa had been killed by his own hand.


    At the end of the procession, another knight wearing a helmet like Venti''s quietly fixed their gaze on Lucas''s back, moving forward as the group marched.


    "Finally, they''ve set off," a voice said from a nearby terrace.


    The Doctor, calmly enjoying breakfast, observed the departing squad and smirked. "Let''s hope they move quickly. I can hardly wait."


    While most Mondstadt citizens dined on simple fare like bread and bacon for breakfast, the Doctor''s table bore arge te of steak, cooked to a rare degree. Each slice carved by her knife oozed faint traces of blood.


    Beside her stood the "modified weapon" Ursa, wearing a mask over her mouth. Her sharp eyes were fixated on the steak.


    "You want some, don''t you?" The Doctor''s voice was soft yet cold. "Sorry, not yet. Only by keeping you hungry can you achieve maximumbat effectiveness."


    Her words were followed by a cruel smile as she gestured toward the squad in the distance. "See those Knights of Favonius? If you want to eat, go feast on them."


    But beneath her mask, Ursa muttered faintly, her voice muffled and hesitant. "Human flesh... cannot be eaten..."


    Hearing this, the Doctor''s casual demeanor instantly vanished, reced by a chilling expression.


    "You dare to have your own will?" the Doctor hissed "You are my property. My will is your will. I can modify you, and I can destroy you. Do you understand?"


    Like a lifeless puppet, Ursa whispered, "I will always obey the orders of ''Master.''"


    "That''s better." The Doctor''s face transformed again, this time into a sinister grin. Stroking Ursa''s cheek gently, she cooed, "Don''t waste the effort I''ve spent on you these past few years."


    ....


    The Stormterror''s Lair was not close to Mondstadt. A lone rider at full speed would need at least half a day to reach it, let alone a squad of hundreds.


    ording to their n, the subjugation squad would camp midway for the night, regrouping to resume their march in the morning.


    The journey had been uneventful. Although monsters frequently roamed the wilderness, the closer they were to the main roads, the fewer monsters appeared. And against such a well-equipped force, any monsters they encountered fled long before posing a threat.


    Still, a few hapless Hilichurl bands crossed their path, attempting to rob the squad. They were swiftly dealt with, bing practice dummies for the younger knights.


    By nightfall, the squad had reached their designated campsite near a modest-sizedke.


    Dinner was nothing fancy. Along with their rations, some of the knights had managed to catch fish to supplement the meal.


    At moments like these, many couldn''t help but miss Klee. If she were here, at least the fish would be plentiful and cooked to perfection.


    Interestingly, Dawn Winery, one of Mondstadt''s most prestigious estates, was just a few kilometers away. Staying there would have spared them the trouble of setting up camp, allowing them to enjoy a hearty meal and rest properly.


    However, Kaeya''s suggestion to do so had been vetoed by Jean. She didn''t want to trouble their esteemed predecessor, Diluc. Furthermore, given his tendency to avoid the Knights of Favonius, it was unlikely he would wee them.


    Lucas stood by theke, staring at the shimmering water in a daze.


    The uncertainty of the mission weighed heavily on him, and a sense of unease gnawed at his mind.


    "Good evening."


    Jean''s voice startled him. She had approached silently, smiling warmly. "Why are you standing here all alone?"


    "Captain Jean?" Lucas scratched his head awkwardly. "Maybe I''m just nervous about tomorrow''s battle with the Stormterror."


    "Actually..." Jean hesitated, her gaze faltering slightly. "You don''t need to call me ''Captain Jean.'' Just call me Jean, like you do with E."


    "Like E?" Lucas pondered aloud. "But you and E are entirely different."


    So, it''s true, Jean thought to herself, lowering her head in slight disappointment. In Lucas''s eyes, she really wasn''t the same as E.


    "E never hides her feelings. She''s always straightforward, daring to love and hate openly," Lucas continued. "But you... you''re always wearing a mask, constrained by your identity. You''re the eldest daughter of the Gunnhildr n, the Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius... but never just Jean."


    Lucas''s words struck Jean deeply.


    He was right. Her entire life had been shaped by expectations, molding her into the person she was "meant" to be, not the person she wanted to be. She was taught to be courteous,posed, and to embody the perfect "Acting Grand Master Jean."


    Perhaps the only time she felt like her true self was when she could chat with Lucas about her favorite romance novels.


    "Lucas, can you promise me one thing?" Jean mustered her courage, lifting her head to meet his eyes. "When this mission is over, spend a day with me¡ªjust one day¡ªwhere I can be... truly myself."


    "Of course!" Lucas replied with augh. "We can y music and sing in the square."


    Jean nodded. "And get drunk at a tavern!"


    Lucas added, "Or read as many romance novels as you like!"


    Jean grinned. "Or take a nap on the grass!"


    Getting into the spirit, Lucas eximed, "Or go blow up fish with Klee!"


    Jean smirked yfully. "Then I''ll lock both you and Klee in solitary confinement."


    Lucas froze, but Jean chuckled softly and said, "Just kidding."


    "So you can joke after all?" Lucas said with a smile. "That''s the real Jean. I like it."


    You... like it?


    Just as Jean was about to question whether Lucas''s use of the word "like" held deeper meaning, an unusual disturbance rippled across the otherwise calmke surface.


    Always vignt, Jean immediately sensed something amiss. Her hand instinctively went to her sword hilt, preparing for any potential threat.


    "Everyone, stay alert!" she called out. "Theke is behaving strangely!"


    At her warning, the group quickly became tense, hundreds of eyes focusing on theke. Each member of the subjugation team was a seasoned warrior; their heightened alertness reflected their expertise. Even if a terrifying beast lurked beneath theke, it would find itself hard-pressed against such a well-prepared force.


    However, as the ripples and mist cleared, theke revealed not a monstrous creature, but an irregrly shaped, glowing water sphere gently floating above the surface.


    "What is that?" Lucas asked, puzzled. "A Hydro Slime?"


    Yet, even a Hydro Slime should have discernible facial features. This sphere, however, was featureless and amorphous.


    Suddenly, Jean, who had been standing beside Lucas, seemed to lose herposure. Her eyes dimmed as though her soul had been drawn away. She began to walk toward the water sphere in a trance-like state, murmuring softly, "Father... Mother... are you reconciled? And Barbara... our family can finally be whole again..."


    It wasn''t just Jean. Other Knights of Favonius members were also entranced, dropping their weapons and moving toward theke with dazed expressions, mumbling various desires aloud.


    "Such a beautiful sword! With it, I could be a great warrior..."


    "Annina, I''ve loved you for so long. Please ept my proposal!"


    "So much money... With this, I could retire early and open my fishing shop..."


    Even Lumine and Paimon were not immune.


    Lumine kept whispering "Brother..." repeatedly, while Paimon''s mouth rattled off a litany of foods as though reciting a menu.


    Strangely, Lucas alone seemed unaffected.


    "So that''s it," said Venti, who no longer bothered to conceal his identity. His brow furrowed as he observed the scene. "It''s a ''Hydro Mirage.''"


    "What''s that?" Lucas quickly asked.


    "It''s a type of illusion that uses Hydro elements to manifest the deepest desires or dreams of those ensnared," Venti exined. "To us, it appears as a simple water sphere. But to the victims, it might resemble a mountain of Mora, a breathtaking beauty, or even long-lost loved ones."


    "What happens if the illusion isn''t broken?" Lucas pressed further.


    "The illusion will draw them in until they walk into the water and drown," Venti answered grimly, though he seemed puzzled. "But such mirages are usually exclusive to the pure-water spirits of Fontaine. They''re defensive rather than offensive and rarely attack other creatures."


    Realizing the urgency, Lucas stepped forward and grabbed Jean''s wrist, forcibly halting her steps. However, the other entranced members continued toward the water, some already waist-deep in theke.


    Though Lucas considered freezing theke with Cryo elements, hisck of precise control over his abilities made it risky; he could inadvertently harm those already in the water.


    "How can we break this illusion?" Lucas asked, a hint of panic creeping into his voice. "You must have a way!"


    "There is a solution," Venti replied casually, a mischievous grin ying on his lips. "Strong stimtion can disrupt the illusion."


    Strong stimtion?


    Lucas, desperate to save Jean, acted without hesitation. He raised his hand and pped Jean''s cheek in an attempt to awaken her through pain. Yet, even as her cheek turned red, she remained unfazed, continuing her mechanical march toward theke.


    Years of rigorous training had evidently dulled Jean''s sensitivity to pain.


    Then Lucas remembered something. In the simtor, Jean had a particrly sensitive spot¡ªone that elicited a sharp reaction whenever touched...


    Without hesitation, Lucas moved behind Jean and reached for that spot, grabbing her soft ass and giving it a light squeeze.


    "Ah!!"


    Jean, previously entranced by the Hydro Mirage, suddenly snapped back to her senses. Reflexively, she spun around and pped Lucas across the face with a resounding "smack." A delicate red handprint appeared on his cheek.


    Yet, Lucas didn''t seem angry in the slightest. Instead, he sighed in relief and asked, "Jean, are you awake now?"


    "What... happened?" Jean murmured, still disoriented. "I think... I saw my estranged parents reconciling..."


    It seemed this vision was a reflection of Jean''s deepest yearning.


    "Unfortunately, it was all just an illusion," Lucas quickly exined. "Everyone''s been ensnared by a mirage. I had to... uh... take action to wake you up."


    At his words, both Lucas and Jean turned red, clearly aware of what had just transpired.


    "But..." Jean frowned as realization dawned. "Why weren''t you affected by the illusion?"


    "Good question. Why wasn''t I...?" Lucas pondered, suddenly pulling out a small, ornate pouch from his chest. The faint, calming scent of Qingxin Grass wafted from it.


    With his [Medical Sage] talent, Lucas quickly pieced it together. The shredded Qingxin Grass inside the pouch not only calmed the mind but also emitted a fragrance that could dispel specific types of illusions¡ªincluding Hydro Mirages.


    Whether it was coincidence or something more deliberate, Lucas wasn''t sure.


    "I''ve got a n!" Lucas eximed. He opened the pouch and poured the Qingxin Grass fragments into his hand. "I''ll scatter these, and you can use Anemo to disperse them across the area. That should break the illusion."


    "Good idea!" Jean nodded. "I''m ready when you are."


    Though it sounded simple, executing it was anything but. Precisely manipting the tiny fragments with Anemo required immense control over elemental energy. Miscalctions could lead to failure, leaving the others trapped in the mirage.


    "We only have one shot!"


    ---


    Author''s Note: Extra chap :)


    Next one at 400 p.s - only if we hit it today!


    P.s ugh that garbage botter at top of ranking again

 Chapter 152: Villain Simulator, Ch 151

    <h4>Chapter 152: Viin Simtor, Ch 151</h4>


    At Lucas''smand, he scattered the Qingxin Grass fragments into the air with a flick of his wrist. In the same instant, Jean swung her sword, channeling precise wind elements along its de. The fragments dispersed perfectly, like a fragrant drizzle falling over the area.


    Nearby, Venti had already prepared to intervene if necessary. However, his assistance proved unnecessary¡ªJean''s remarkable elemental control ensured the Qingxin Grass was distributed wlessly. The soothing fragrance wafted through the air, reaching the ensnared victims.


    Sure enough, as soon as they inhaled the fragrance, those under the Hydro Mirage began regaining their senses. Some had been mere seconds away from submerging entirely into theke; without intervention, they would have lost consciousness and drowned.


    "Everyone, retreat to the shore!" Jeanmanded immediately. "The enemy hasn''t fully revealed themselves yet. Stay vignt!"


    But before the knights could fully regroup, theke''s surface suddenly churned into a massive vortex. The glowing sphere of water shifted, transforming into a colossal, eight-headed water dragon that towered over the group, roaring furiously from the center of theke.


    Its sheer size eclipsed even that of the Stormterror, and its fearsome appearance sent a wave of unease through the gathered fighters.


    Yet, Lucas couldn''t shake the feeling that something about this creature didn''t add up.


    Unlike Stormterror, this water dragoncked the same oppressive aura of overwhelming power.


    "Roar!"


    The dragon bellowed in a deep, resonant voice: "Foolish mortals! How dare you disturb my slumber? Consider this a mere warning¡ªleave now, or face my wrath!"


    It can talk?


    Jean, ever the cautious leader, considered the situation. Their mission was to subdue the Stormterror; engaging this creature could be an unnecessary diversion. No casualties had urred yet, so it might be wiser to withdraw.


    However, just as she contemted ordering a retreat, Paimon shouted, "Oh no! Traveler¡ªTraveler is gone!"


    Lucas''s heart sank as he realized Lumine had vanished. Even Paimon, usually inseparable from her, couldn''t locate herpanion. There was no doubt¡ªLumine was in danger.


    At the water''s edge, Lucas spotted a single white flower¡ªLumine''s hair essory. The implication was clear: she had likely fallen victim to the earlier illusion and was now submerged in theke.


    "We''ll leave!" Lucas called out. "But return my friend to me!"


    "How dare a mere human attempt to negotiate with me!" the dragon roared, its eight heads rising high. Around it, multiple water columns erupted violently, a clear show of force. "Leave now, or suffer my fury!"


    "In that case, let me test your strength myself."


    Lucas stepped forward without hesitation, his voice resolute. "Jean, Lumine is my friend. This is my responsibility to handle. Take the others and retreat."


    "What are you talking about..." Jean stepped forward to stand beside him, her gaze unwavering. "Your friend is my friend. If I can''t protect those in front of me, how can I protect the people of Mondstadt?"


    Jean''s words rallied the group, bolstering their morale. A chorus of steel rang out as the Knights of Favonius drew their swords, ready for battle.


    "You cowardly beast!" E stormed forward, gripping her ymore with frost gathering around her. "If you think you can toy with us like this, I''ll freeze you solid and shatter you!"


    "How... how dare you!"


    The water dragon''s voice cracked as it retreated slightly. "Take another step, and I... I''ll drown you!"


    But this time, its voicecked the earlier gravitas and instead trembled with nervousness.


    "Enough pretending." Lucas intercepted E, stopping her advance. Fixing the dragon with a sharp re, he sneered. "You''re weak, aren''t you?"


    "W-What?"


    The dragon''s voice faltered further, the bravado in its tone fading. "I... I''m very strong!"


    "If you''re really so powerful, why resort to illusions instead of attacking directly?" Lucas asked confidently. "Water, for all its strength, is amorphous and deceptive. Your imposing form is just for show, isn''t it?"


    "I''ll prove how ''strong'' you are!" E snapped, her frosty ymore sparking with cold energy. "How dare you toy with us like this..."


    Lucas couldn''t help but wonder what E had seen in the Hydro Mirage that had riled her so much.


    As E prepared to strike, the dragon visibly cowered, curling its eight heads together. "I... I was wrong! Don''t kill me! I... I didn''t want this to happen!"


    The water dragon''s form dissolved, and in its ce stood a small humanoid figure made of water.


    It resembled the "Slime Maidens" from stories, but its translucent blue body shimmered with a vibrant luster. It looked no older than ten, with a frightened, tearful expression.


    (AN: smth like this?)


    "A pure-water elemental..." Venti muttered beside Lucas. "Let''s ask questions before attacking. These creatures are often Fontaine''s agents, but they rarely act aggressively unless provoked. Maybe there''s more to this."


    Lucas was somewhat familiar with pure-water elementals.


    They were living manifestations of water formed from concentrated Hydro elements. Typically found near pristine bodies of water, their strength corrted with the purity of their surroundings. Most had ties to Fontaine''s Hydro Archon and acted as her spies, observing the world.


    Pure-water elementals seldom attacked humans unless the water source was threatened or corrupted.


    "Don''t be scared," Lucas said gently, kneeling to address the creature. "What''s your name? Why did you use illusions against us?"


    "M-My name is Endora," the elemental stammered, her voice trembling. "A blue figure with a mask and two bunny-like ears captured me and forced me to cast illusions on you."


    "A blue figure with a mask and rabbit ears..." Jean murmured, her brows furrowing. "Could it be a Hydro Abyss Mage?"


    Having dealt with the Abyss Order before, Jean immediately recognized the description.


    Lucas examined Endora closely and noticed a faint ck sun-shaped sigil etched on her forehead.


    "That''s the Abyss Order''s binding curse," said Kaeya, who suddenly appeared from the shadows, his tone casual. "Looks like I missed some fun."


    Curious, Lucas couldn''t help but wonder what Kaeya might have seen in the Hydro Mirage if he''d been affected.


    "I won''t hurt you," Lucas reassured Endora. "Just tell me where the blonde girl is."


    "Aaaaah!"


    Before Endora could answer, she let out a pained cry. Her watery form began to dissipate rapidly, her essence evaporating before their eyes. "I... I feel strange... Help... me!"


    "Seems the Abyss Mage is trying to silence her to prevent her from leaking information," Kaeya remarked with a hint of regret. "What a waste."


    Lucas, aware of Kaeya''s ties to Khaenri''ah, suspected his insight came from his unique heritage.


    "Is there a way to save her?" Lucas asked urgently.


    "That curse is essentially a master-servant contract," Kaeya replied with a shrug. "You''d either need to break the contract... or overwrite it with a stronger one."


    A master-servant contract?


    Lucas seemed to recall something. From his storage space, he produced a charm inscribed with red talismans: "I''m not sure if this will work, but... it''s worth a try!"


    Without hesitation, he pressed the charm onto Endora''s forehead. A golden light shed, halting the disintegration of her body. The ck sun-shaped mark on her forehead vanished instantly.


    <strong>[Sessful Subjugation!]</strong>


    <strong>[Shikigami Information Confirmed]</strong>


    <strong>[Name]: Endora</strong>


    <strong>[Species]: Pure-Water Elemental</strong>


    <strong>[Attribute]: Hydro</strong>


    <strong>[Skills: Hydro Mirage, Water Form Summoning, Mirage Explosion, Hydro Possession]</strong>


    <strong>[Gained 1000 Virtue Points for saving Endora from the brink of death!]</strong>


    Relief washed over Lucas as Endora officially became his shikigami.


    The talisman he used was none other than the <strong>Shikigami Talisman</strong>¡ªa reward from the simtor. While ordinary people couldn''t wield such an artifact, Lucas''s <strong>Great Onmyoji</strong> talent allowed him to master its use with ease.


    "I... I''m alive!" Endora eximed, hopping with joy. "I''m free! Thank you, Master!"


    "Now, with your freedom restored, you shouldn''t have any reservations," Lucas said, leaning forward. "Tell me¡ªwhere is the girl?"


    "Yeah, where''s Traveler?" Paimon cried, her voice choked with emotion. "She''s my best friend! If... if she dies¡ª"


    Seeing Paimon''s distress, Lucas quickly reassured her.


    "Don''t worry, Lumine¡ª"


    "If she dies, you''ll have to take me in!" Paimon clung to Lucas''s cloak, sobbing. "Don''t worry! Paimon''s very easy to take care of!"


    "Don''t lose hope so soon!" Lucas said with an exasperatedugh. "Trust me. If the enemy''s goal was just to kill Lumine, they wouldn''t go through such borate lengths. I''d bet she''s still safe."


    His words weren''t baseless optimism.


    As someone who knew the story well, Lucas understood that if Lumine was the Traveler, the mastermind behind the Abyss Order was her brother, Aether. No matter how grim things seemed, Aether wouldn''t truly harm his sister.


    "I know where she is!" Freed from her contract, Endora spoke with confidence. "She''s at the bottom of theke! That blue guy captured her!"


    A Hydro Abyss Mage?


    "But none of us have Hydro Visions," Jean said with a furrowed brow. "If I''d known, I would''ve brought Barbara along."


    Even though a Hydro Vision wouldn''t allow someone to move freely underwater, it could reduce resistance and make diving easier.


    Jean had considered taking Barbara on the expedition initially. After all, if Barbara could master her "Gigantification" ability, she might be a powerful asset against Stormterror.


    However, Jean ultimately decided against it.


    Barbara was reluctant to use that power, and its effectiveness against a flying opponent like Stormterror was uncertain. Most importantly, Jean didn''t want to expose her sister, a support unit, to the frontlines'' dangers.


    Now, even Lucas was stumped. Though he could swim, he couldn''t stay underwater for long, andbat in the enemy''s domain would put him at a significant disadvantage.


    Even Sun Wukong had his limitations underwater.


    "Leave it to me, Master!" Endora suddenly dered. She leaped onto Lucas and melded into his body. "Hydro Possession!"


    Bluish patterns rippled across Lucas''s skin, glowing faintly like flowing water.


    "This is one of my unique abilities!" Endora''s voice echoed in Lucas''s consciousness. "When I merge with you, Master, you''ll gain the same freedom to move underwater as a pure-water elemental. But... I can''t maintain it for long."


    "That''s fine! This is more than enough." Lucas marveled at his transformed body, then turned to the others. "I''ll dive in to rescue her. Jean, you all stay here and hold the perimeter."


    "Understood..." Jean hesitated briefly before nodding. "Please,e back safely."


    "If you dare let anything happen to yourself..." E said, her eyes narrowing, "I''ll hold this grudge forever."


    "By the way..." Lucas nced at E with a smirk. "What did you see in the mirage earlier?"


    E''s cheeks flushed red. She stammered, "Is... is this really the time for that? Just go already! I''ll tell you when you get back!"


    "Deal!" Lucas chuckled before turning to Jean. "And don''t worry, I haven''t forgotten our promise. Wait for my safe return."


    With those parting words, Lucas dove gracefully into theke, leaving Jean and E exchanging awkward nces.


    "Tsk tsk..."


    Kaeya''s yfulugh broke the silence. "He''s quite lucky, isn''t he? With so many people worrying about him, if anything happens, I wouldn''t be surprised if they drained the entireke to find him."


    "Kaeya!" Jean''s face turned bright red. "Since you abandoned your post earlier, I expect a full written report on my desk by tomorrow morning!"


    "As youmand~" Kaeya shrugged, humming a jaunty tune as he walked away.


    <strong>Deep beneath theke...</strong>


    No light reached the depths, and in the dead of night, thekebed was shrouded in absolute darkness. Only the asional glimmer from bioluminescent creatures flickered faintly, serving as bait for unsuspecting prey.


    Yet, in one secluded corner of theke, a faint glow revealed the presence of a small underwater pce. Encased in a shimmering bubble that separated it from the surrounding water, the pce stood like a hidden refuge.


    Inside, Luminey unconscious on a bed made from an enormous seashell. Her eyes remained closed, her chest rising and falling softly as if in peaceful slumber.


    Floating beside her was a small unknown figure d in a blue robe. A mask obscured its face, and two rabbit-like ears jutted from its head.


    ----


    Author''s note: You can see changes to the Fontaine lore because it was not released at the time of this novel, I may do something about it in the future... Will probably do a poll to decide what to do, as I really like Fontaine and its characters.


    P.s Next extra Chapter at 800 :)

 Chapter 153: Villain Simulator, Ch 152

    <h4>Chapter 153: Viin Simtor, Ch 152</h4>


    She was none other than the mastermind behind this "kidnapping incident" and the Hydro Abyss Mage who had inscribed the contract on Endora¡ªKulechet.


    In general, Abyss Mages were the lowest-ranking members of the Abyss Order. Though they could wield troublesome elemental magic, their individualbat strength wasn''t particrly high.


    But Kulechet was different. Thanks to her exceptional talent and superior capabilities, she had quickly distinguished herself among her peers, even earning a ce by the side of the Abyss Order''s leader¡ªthe "Prince."


    This mission was personally assigned to her by the Prince: to stop this golden-haired girl from participating in the operation to subdue Stormterror.


    The Stormterror''s madness was itself a part of the Abyss Order''s schemes. However, the Prince didn''t seem concerned about the Knights of Favonius'' n to defeat the dragon. Perhaps he believed their mission was doomed to fail, nothing more than a futile act of martyrdom.


    But why did he insist on stopping this particr girl? Even Kulechet didn''t know the answer.


    "What a beautiful girl..." Kulechet murmured as she studied the wless features of the unconscious Lumine, resting inside the giant shell. "Why is the Prince so intent on saving you? Could it be... that he fancies you?"


    The Abyssal remnants of Khaenri''ah, having long since transformed into Abyssal creatures, gradually lost their human emotions over time.


    But Kulechet was different. She had always secretly admired the Prince, harboring a peculiar affection for him. Lumine''s sudden appearance stirred a faint, inexplicable jealousy within her nonexistent "heart."


    If only the Prince''s eyes saw me and no one else...


    The thought sparked a fleeting glint of murderous intent in Kulechet''s eyes.


    At this moment, she was still unaware that the golden-haired girl before her was, in fact, the Prince''s younger sister.


    "Stop!"


    A sharp shout rang out from behind her. Startled, Kulechet turned around abruptly, only to see a human male standing there.


    "How could a human be here?" Kulechet eximed in shock. "Who are you?!"


    This underwater pce was crafted using her unique elemental magic. Ordinary humans couldn''t possibly dive to such depths, let alone breach the water bubble protecting the pce.


    "Master, that''s the bad person!" Endora''s form materialized beside Lucas, pointing an usatory finger at Kulechet. "She''s the one who forced me to do bad things!"


    "So it was you who brought an outsider here." Kulechet sneered, recovering herposure. "No matter. After I kill your new master, I''ll deal with you properly. I''ll lock you in a dirty water tank and flush you down the toilet!"


    "No! I don''t want to be flushed down the toilet!" Endora whimpered, shrinking behind Lucas, trembling.


    Although pure-water elementals didn''t have physical bodies and were immune to physical pain, they required extremely clean environments to survive. Being forced to live in polluted water was the cruelest torture for them. It was clear Endora had suffered greatly under Kulechet''s control.


    "No one will hurt you," Lucas said coldly, fixing Kulechet with a piercing re. "Return the girl to me."


    "That''s not going to happen." Kulechet raised her hand, and the shell housing Lumine snapped shut with a resounding <i>ng</i>. "If you want to take her, you''ll have to step over my¡ª"


    Before she could finish, Lucas closed the distance between them in an instant, gripping her head and mming her forcefully into the ground.


    Pain shot through Kulechet''s skull, leaving her momentarily stunned. Instinctively, she activated her teleportation magic, escaping from Lucas''s grasp and reappearing several meters away.


    Lucas had deliberately held back. If he had used his full strength, her head would have been reduced to a bloody pulp against the pce floor.


    Abyss Mages were not particrly strong, but their ability to teleport made them difficult adversaries. Even if overpowered, they could quickly flee to safety.


    But the sheer power Lucas had just disyed exceeded Kulechet''s expectations.


    As an Abyss Order officer, she was familiar with thebat prowess of Mondstadt''s forces. The Grand Master, Varka, was currently away, and among the younger generation, even Diluc, despite leaving the Knights, was considered their most formidable fighter.


    But this man didn''t match any of the known profiles of Mondstadt''s elitebatants.


    "Return Lumine to me," Lucas said, his expression cold and unyielding. "And I might spare your life."


    For reasons she couldn''tprehend, Endora sensed an oppressive aura radiating from her master. It was as if the carefree man from earlier had transformed into something entirely different.


    In truth, Lucas usually suppressed his darker emotions to avoid unnerving those around him. But now, with no one but the enemy present, he felt no need to hold back.


    "Onnd, perhaps I''d feel more threatened," Kulechet retorted, regaining her confidence. "But here, in the depths of theke, you stand no chance. Consider yourself lucky¡ªyou''ll die witnessing my true form!"


    With those words, a whirlpool of water surrounded Kulechet. As it dispersed, her figure transformed.


    Her new appearance resembled a humanoid mage, her bodyrger and her features more defined. The once-billowing robes were now snug against her figure, entuating her form in a way that was difficult to ignore.


    What the... she can transform?


    This wasn''t something Lucas remembered from the game.


    But he could tell her power had increased substantially. She was clearly no ordinary Abyss Mage.


    "Well, I guess I have no choice," Lucas muttered, cracking his knuckles. "Time to take you down."


    "Stop talking big!" Kulechet waved her wand, which resembled a tree branch, and chanted in an odd tone, "<strong>Rite of Mortal Water</strong>!"


    At her words, several enormous water bubbles materialized around Lucas, surrounding him entirely.


    Lucas immediately recognized this move¡ªif he touched one of the bubbles, he would be trapped inside. Even in the game, it was an incredibly annoying skill to deal with.


    "Be careful, Master!" Endora said anxiously. "I was caught by that move back then!"


    "Child''s y!"


    Lucas drew his katana, <strong>[Broken Mistsplliter]</strong>, and with a sharp sh, one of the bubbles burst instantly, shattering into countless droplets.


    More bubbles floated toward him, but Lucas''s flowing swordsmanship left no opening. Each bubble was cut down before it could reach him.


    "Master is amazing!" Endora cheered as Lucas deftly destroyed the bubbles.


    In less than a minute, every bubble around him had been popped.


    "It seems I underestimated you," Kulechet said, pping her hands, though her tone remained calm. "But it''s a pity¡ªyou missed one bubble."


    "Wait, could it be..."


    Lucas''s face changed as he realized something, but it was toote. The massive bubble that had encased the pce was shrinking, tightening rapidly.


    "So all those bubbles were just distractions?" Lucas muttered.


    "Your observation skills aren''t bad, but you''re toote!" Kulechet stepped back, leaving the shrinking bubble to envelop Lucas entirely. Itpressed down to a sphere barely two meters in diameter, trapping him inside.


    "Hahaha!"


    Kulechet approached the bubble, her face smug as she observed Lucas trapped within. "Caught you, didn''t I? Now, let me think. Should I fill the bubble with water and drown you, or bury you in theke and imprison you here forever?"


    But before she could continue gloating, Lucas smiled¡ªa strange, unnerving smile.


    Raising his hand, Lucas extended it beyond the edge of the bubble as if the barrier weren''t even there. He grabbed one of the rabbit-like adornments on Kulechet''s hood.


    "H-How is this possible?"


    Kulechet was so startled she froze. Before she could react, Lucas pulled her inside the bubble with a firm tug.


    "Get in here!"


    With a cold grin, Lucas watched as Kulechet, still in shock, was yanked into the bubble by her hood.


    "Now, who''s caught whom?" Lucas sneered.


    What kind of monster is this?!


    Kulechet''s <strong>Rite of Mortal Water</strong> was her signature move. While not invincible, it was highly effective, and she had never encountered anyone who could physically break through it, let alone pull someone else inside.


    Moreover, her teleportation spell had a cooldown of an hour. For now, there was no escaping Lucas''s grasp.


    "Dispel the bubble," Lucas said tly. "Don''t you think it''s a little cramped in here?"


    Reluctantly, Kulechet nodded and released the spell. The surrounding water returned to normal, and the pce was once again free from the bubble''s confines.


    "D-Don''t do anything reckless!" Kulechet''s confidence began to waver, and a trace of fear crept into her voice. "If you kill me, the shell will crush that girl to death instantly!"


    "I don''t have time for games," Lucas said, his patience wearing thin. "Tell me how to open the shell, or I''ll make you wish you were never born."


    "Don''t underestimate the loyalty of the Abyss Order," Kulechet sneered. "No matter what you do to me, I won''t betray the Prince. I will never let him down."


    Her resolve was admirable. The Abyss Order''s members were known for their unshakable faith. Even when captured, they rarely divulged any valuable information. It was likely that any betrayal would lead to consequences far worse than death.


    "You won''t be able to hide anything from me."


    Lucas reached out and ced a hand on Kulechet''s forehead. "<strong>Interrogation Technique</strong>! Tell me how to open the shell!"


    <strong>[Interrogation Technique]: Forces the target to answer one question truthfully. Sess rate depends on the target''s mental strength. Usable once per day.</strong>


    Kulechet''s eyes flickered with a faint pink glow. A momentter, she murmured as ifpelled, "If the water content in my body drops below 40%, I won''t be able to sustain even basic magic..."


    Her voice trailed off, and when she realized what she had just revealed, her eyes widened in disbelief. "How... how could I reveal my weakness?!"


    Abyss Mages didn''t possess Visions; they likely drew elemental energy from ley lines. However, some Abyss Mages, like Kulechet, enhanced their powers by linking elemental energy directly to their bodies.


    For Hydro Abyss Mages, this meant using the water in their bodies as a conduit for elemental maniption. While this method granted greater control, it came with a ring w¡ªif their internal water content fell too low, they couldn''t use magic at all.


    The human body typically consists of 60-70% water. For Abyss Mages, the threshold was simr. At 50%, dehydration began, and at 40% or lower, severe dehydration rendered them powerless.


    "So, killing you would seal the shell forever," Lucas mused. "But dehydrating you would open it. Isn''t that right?"


    "Hmph. So what?" Kulechet remained defiant. "You can''t control water elements. How do you n to drain the water from my body?"


    "Endora, can you do it?" Lucas asked.


    "I... I can''t," Endora said apologetically. "To control water within a body requires precise elemental maniption. If I identally extract too much, she''ll die instantly."


    "Hahaha!" Kulechetughed, her confidence restored. "Looks like you''re out of options. Keep wasting time, and reinforcements from the Abyss Order will arrive soon. If you don''t want to die, you''d better run."


    "So, I just need to dehydrate you?" Lucas''s eyes narrowed as an idea struck him. A faint smile yed across his lips. "Who says I need elemental maniption to make that happen?"


    "What do you mean?" Kulechet scoffed. "If you think cutting off my water intake will work, think again. I can go weeks without drinking a drop and still function perfectly."


    Lucas didn''t respond. Instead, he reached out and removed Kulechet''s mask.


    He paused briefly, then chuckled. "I didn''t expect Abyss Mages to look so human after transforming. You''re quite cute, actually. Fortunately you''re female; otherwise, I might''ve been at a loss."


    Kulechet''s face, unmasked, was strikingly simr to a human''s, with exotic features reminiscent of Kaeya''s. She had an otherworldly charm that was both alluring and disarming.


    (AN: Thats the best I could fine.. Excluding the lolis)


    "What... what are you nning?" Kulechet stammered, sensing danger in Lucas''s gaze. "If you dare try anything, I''ll bite my tongue and¡ªmmph!"


    Before she could finish, Lucas summoned an ice pop and stuffed it into her mouth, preventing her from speaking¡ªor biting her tongue.


    "Master, do you have a n?" Endora asked eagerly.


    "You''re still too young to understand," Lucas said gently. "Close your eyes and rest for now."


    This version of Master is so kind...


    Endora nodded and retreated. "Alright. I''ll leave it to you, Master. Call me if you need me."


    "Take your time sleeping," Lucas said with a wry smile, licking his lips. "This... might take a while."


    .....


    Kulechet''s heart raced with panic, but with her mouth gagged, she could only make muffled sounds of protest. "Mmmph! Mmmph!"


    "This is all your doing, little one," Lucas said with a calm smile, lifting his hand to unfasten the sp of her mage''s robe. "I need to release your ''valves'' to reduce the water content in your body. Do you know where those ''valves'' are?"


    The <strong>"Ring of Maniption"</strong> on Lucas''s wrist began to emit a familiar pinkish glow. The aura, tied to the <strong>"Sin of Lust"</strong>, started to seep into Lucas''s consciousness, subtly influencing his actions.


    Kulechet shook her head frantically. Though she understood his words individually, theirbined meaning eluded her.


    "It seems you''ve only managed to mimic a human form, but you don''t truly understand the human body," Lucas said, continuing his motions without much concern. "Then let me exin. There are four valves in total."


    Four?


    Is that even possible?


    Kulechet''s face showed a look of utter disbelief. She had assumed, at most, there might be two.


    "Still unwilling to dispel the magic?" Lucas''s tone turned firm, as if issuing a final ultimatum. "As a gentleman, I''d rather not resort to such messy methods."


    "Stop trying to intimidate me..." Kulechet''s voice, though stifled, was resolute, her expression steadfast. "No matter what, I won''t betray the Prince. And besides, there''s no way... no way that method will actually make me lose my water content. It''s impossible!"


    "Impossible or not, we''ll find out," Lucas said coolly, gripping her chin to force her gaze upward. "Tell me your name. My sword never strikes the nameless."


    "K-Kulechet..." the girl stammered, almost involuntarily revealing her name.


    Abyss creatures'' true names were deeply tied to their previous lives, a remnant of their former humanity. Most Abyss creatures concealed their real names, using only aliases or titles. It was said that when an Abyss creature forgot even their true name, they would have fully sumbed to the abyss, abandoning their former selves entirely.


    ---

 Chapter 154: Villain Simulator, Ch 153

    <h4>Chapter 154: Viin Simtor, Ch 153</h4>


    "Kulechet, is it? I''ll remember that." Lucas shifted behind her, adjusting his angle. "Next, I''ll call your name to confirm if you''re still conscious."


    "W-What?"


    And so, Kulechet began to realize just how painful¡ªand yet, how intoxicating¡ªit was to experience life as a "human."


    <strong>[Talent Activated: First ss of Red Wine]</strong><strong>[Hydro Damage increased by 20%.]</strong>


    In Mondstadt''s Cat''s Tail Tavern, there was a unique drink called "Slime Champagne." To prepare it, the bartender would keep a small Hydro Slime on hand. When needed, a mixing rod coated with a mildly irritating substance was inserted into the Hydro Slime''s body, agitating it.


    The distressed Hydro Slime would secrete a special gel-like substance, forming the base of the champagne.


    This method, originally devised by the feline bartender Diona as a prank on drunken patrons, quickly gained poprity. Unfortunately, the process left Hydro Slimes fatally dehydrated, leading to a skyrocketing demand for live Hydro Slimes in Mondstadt. At their peak, they were traded like spectivemodities.


    Unscrupulous merchants bought 20-30 kilogram Hydro Slimes at high prices, crammed them together in pens, and extracted their gel day and night to maximize profits.


    Before long, however, Diona introduced a new line of cocktails, rendering "Slime Champagne" obsolete. The merchants who had hoarded Hydro Slimes faced financial ruin. Many, buried under crushing debt, leapt from rooftops to their deaths, earning them the nickname "Flying Entrepreneurs."


    This tangent may seem unrted, but it provides context for Lucas''s current actions.


    Using a simr method, Lucas was "dehydrating" Kulechet.


    Of course, the "Hydro Abyss Mage Champagne" produced by this technique wasn''t exactly destined to be a best-seller.


    <strong>Hydration Level: 63%...</strong>


    <strong>Hydration Level: 56%...</strong>


    "How are you holding up, Kulechet?" Lucas''s voice dripped with the malice of a devil''s whisper. "Does my method work?"


    "This... this is just the beginning," Kulechet gritted her teeth. "I... I can endure it..."


    <strong>Hydration Level: 51%...</strong>


    <strong>Hydration Level: 47%...</strong>


    "Still feeling defiant?" Lucas smirked. "You''re like someone chewing gum¡ªonce you start, you just can''t stop."


    "Shut... shut up..." Kulechet''s voice grew faint, her strength waning.


    <strong>Hydration Level: 45%...</strong>


    <strong>Hydration Level: 42%...</strong>


    "Are you still alive over there?" Lucas wiped the sweat from his brow. "If you can''t hold out, just surrender. Even the fountain at Mondstadt Cathedral would resign out of envy if it saw you."


    "I... I won''t betray... the Prince..." Kulechet''s words were airy, as if they were floating through the sky.


    <strong>Hydration Level: 40%...</strong>


    <strong>Hydration Level: 39%...</strong>


    Finally, with a ssh of water, the overly dehydrated Kulechet copsed, unable to hold on any longer. Simultaneously, the shell that had been tightly encasing Lumine slowly opened, revealing the unconscious golden-haired girl inside.


    But it wasn''t just the shell that lost its magical hold. The surrounding water bubble maintaining the underwater pce also disintegrated, copsing under the strain of Kulechet''s dehydration. Water began seeping in through the thinning barriers, threatening to flood the entire area within moments.


    Seeing the rising water and the still-unconscious Lumine, as well as the incapacitated Kulechet, Lucas quickly acted. "Endora! Hydro Possession!"


    "At once!"


    Endora, who had been in a resting state, immediately responded to Lucas''s call. Upon opening her eyes, however, she looked puzzled. "Huh? Where are your clothes?"


    "Not the time to worry about that!" Lucas quickly pulled his clothes back on. "Possess Lumine! We need to get out of here now!"


    "But if I possess her, what about you, Master?" Endora asked, concerned. "It''ll take at least five minutes to swim back to the surface."


    "Who said anything about swimming?"


    Holding both girls tightly in his arms, Lucas braced himself. "Ice Pir, rise!"


    Under his feet, ice energy surged and formed a pir, rapidly carrying Lucas and the two girls upward like an underwater elevator, propelling them toward theke''s surface.


    .....


    "Cough, cough..."


    Kulechet slowly regained consciousness, only to see Lucas holding a chilled cup of ice water, gently pouring the liquid into her mouth.


    "Wha... cough, cough!"


    Kulechet quickly pushed Lucas away, spitting out the water in shock. "What... what did you make me drink?"


    "Rx," Lucas replied nonchntly. "It''s just in ice water. If you don''t rehydrate, you''ll die."


    Looking around at her surroundings and spotting the still-unconscious Lumine nearby, Kulechet understood that her mission had failed.


    What she couldn''tprehend was why Lucas had brought her back to the surface and even saved her life.


    Lucas wasn''t the type to spare his enemies lightly. If Kulechet were just another ordinary Abyss Mage, he''d likely be digging a grave for her body by now.


    But Lucas remembered that Kulechet wasn''t just any Abyss Mage¡ªshe was a named officer directly serving the "Prince," Lumine''s brother, Aether.


    Aether would never harm Lumine. His intention in having her captured was likely to prevent her from participating in the Stormterror expedition. If Lucas killed one of Aether''s trusted officers, it could create asting feud.


    Although Lucas'' power had grown considerably, he wasn''t yet in a position to take on the Abyss Order as a whole.


    "Why... why didn''t you kill me?" Kulechet asked, her voice weak yet cautious.


    "Consider it a reward for the entertainment you provided me." Lucas tossed Kulechet''s mage robe back to her and chuckled. "Of all the valves I''ve opened, you''re the most... hydrated."


    "You...!"


    Kulechet flushed with embarrassment, but before she could retort, Lucas had already turned away, carrying Lumine in his arms. Without looking back, he said, "Tell your master that I''ll protect Lumine. He doesn''t need to worry."


    Lucas had briefly considered turning Kulechet into an informant within the Abyss Order, much like he had with Lyudm from the Fatui.


    Ultimately, he dismissed the idea. Abyss Mages showed no fear of death, and even if she could be turned, the Abyss Order''s intelligence held little immediate value for him.


    As Lucas''s figure faded into the distance, Kulechet remained seated, silent and contemtive.


    The events that had just unfolded felt like a surreal dream. Though it was, in essence, a punishment, she hadn''t felt much pain during the process.


    Instead... there was an odd sense of pleasure.


    "I''m sorry, Prince," Kulechet murmured, clutching the ice cup Lucas had used to give her water. "Not only did I fail the mission you entrusted to me, but... even my soul no longer feels pure. Can I still serve by your side like this?"


    .....


    At the same time, in the <strong>Knights of Favonius'' encampment</strong>, many were drying their soaked clothing around the campfire.


    Having been pulled into theke earlier by Endora''s Hydro Mirage, most had ended up drenched to the bone.


    Jean, however, stood apart, her eyes fixed on the water''s surface, her brow furrowed deeply.


    "It''s been two hours now..." she murmured to herself. "Lucas, you mustn''t let anything happen to you."


    "Captain Jean, don''t worry. That guy won''t die so easily," E said as she handed Jean a food container with a small smile. "Care for a slice of Moon Pie? It''s a special treat from the Reconnaissance Squad. Not many get the chance to try it."


    Despite her aloof demeanor, E''s cooking skills were unexpectedly excellent. She excelled in crafting all kinds of pastries and often prepared rations for her squad when they ventured into the field. Her treats were so well-loved that they became a reason some knights eagerly volunteered for missions.


    "Thank you..." Jean said. Although she wasn''t in the mood to eat, she epted out of politeness. Taking a bite of the Moon Pie, her eyes widened in surprise. "This... this is delicious!"


    "Right?!" E said proudly. "If that guy doesn''t get a chance to try it, he''ll die with regrets!"


    The two exchanged a brief, genuine smile.


    Due to their family histories, there had always been tension between Jean of the Gunnhildr family and E of the Lawrence family. Their interactions were often strained and formal.


    But in this moment, they seemed more like close friends.


    Perhaps the bond they now shared was forged by their mutual concern for the same man.


    "They''re back!"


    Kaeya''s voice rang out as he waved to the returning Lucas, who carried an unconscious Lumine in his arms. "I knew you''d make it."


    "Let me down!"


    Lumine, who had regained consciousness during the return trip, protested shyly. While she insisted she could walk, Lucas refused to let her go, fearing the strain might harm her further.


    "Not happening," Lucas said firmly. "You''re still weak. Don''t push yourself."


    "Ugh..."


    Despite herints, Lumine instinctively leaned into his chest, feeling a surprising sense of warmth and safety.


    "Traveler! Waaaah!"


    Paimon flew toward them and threw herself into Lumine''s arms, her tears streaming freely. "I knew you''d be okay!"


    This littlepanion certainly hadn''t been this optimistic earlier...


    Still, Lucas decided not to call her out. After all, this was a heartfelt reunion.


    "What took you so long?" Jean and the others approached, concern evident on their faces. "What happened down there? Was it really an Abyss Mage who captured Lumine?"


    "Uh... about that..." Lucas hesitated, realizing he hadn''t thought up a believable excuse.


    He couldn''t exactly exin that he had been "helping an Abyss Mage hydrate," could he?


    "I know, I know!"


    Endora suddenly emerged from Lucas''s side, her cheerful voice cutting through the tension. "I saw everything! Master used a strange rod to give that bad guy a good beating and squeezed all the water out of her!"


    Lucas nearly turned pale with fright.


    Thankfully, the little pure-water elemental was too naive to grasp the full implications of her words.


    While her description was technically urate, the image it conjured in Jean''s mind was quite different. She imagined Lucas wielding a long staff in a fierce duel against the Abyss Mage.


    "I didn''t know you were skilled with a staff," Jean remarked, her tone tinged with curiosity. "Is this some kind of Liyue martial art?"


    E''s eyes lit up at the idea, and she cracked her knuckles. "I''d love to see your staff techniques in action. Let''s spar sometime."


    Her eagerness left Lucas feeling both amused and exasperated.


    After all, in the simtor, E had experienced his "techniques" quite a few times already.


    "Sorry..." Lumine said softly, her voice filled with guilt. "This was all my fault. I''m sorry for worrying everyone."


    She was still unaware that the entire incident was tied to her brother, Aether.


    "These things happen," Jean said, offering reassurance. "What''s important is that we''re all safe now. Everyone, rest up. We have a long day ahead."


    However, the earliermotion had left the camp in disarray. Many knights were still dealing with damp clothing and disrupted routines.


    Even though these were elite members of the Knights of Favonius, and such inconveniences wouldn''t significantly affect their capabilities, the quality of their rest had undoubtedly beenpromised.


    "What a mess..."


    A cold, aloof voice suddenly broke the silence.


    Emerging from the shadows of the trees was a tall man with striking red hair. His expression was impassive as he surveyed the scene. "Jean, is your task force here for a pic?"


    [Image here]


    "Sir Diluc?" Jean gasped in surprise. "Why are you here?"


    Indeed, this uninvited guest was none other than Diluc, the owner of Dawn Winery.


    "This campsite," he said casually, "was purchased by me years ago. My estate, Dawn Winery, is only a few kilometers from here. Do you think I wouldn''t notice what''s happening on my own property?"


    "This was my oversight," Jean admitted with a sigh, knowing full well Diluc''s disdain for the Knights of Favonius. "We''ll leave immediately¡ª"


    "There''s no need for that."


    Diluc shook his head. "Come with me to Dawn Winery. There are enough guest rooms for all of you to stay the night."


    "...Huh?"


    Jean blinked, genuinely surprised.


    Had she heard correctly?


    Diluc wasn''t driving them away. He was inviting them to stay.


    "Haha! I knew it!" Kaeya stepped forward with a sly grin. "You must be doing this for my sake¡ª"


    But Diluc ignored Kaeya entirely, striding over to Lucas instead. "Don''t misunderstand. I''m only offering because of Lucas. He''s my guest of honor."


    What in the world? Is this turning into some clich¨¦ romance drama?


    Lucas couldn''t help but question if he''d been handed the wrong script from a neighboring melodrama production.


    He remained oblivious to the real reason for Diluc''s hospitality: Diluc believed Lucas to be a distant rtive and was even considering entrusting him with a portion of his estate.


    "What a joke," E scoffed, crossing her arms. Her prideful nature refused to tolerate Diluc''s apparent smugness. "What''s so special about Dawn Winery? Must you act like you''re granting us charity?"

 Chapter 155: Villain Simulator, Ch 154

    <h4>Chapter 155: Viin Simtor, Ch 154</h4>


    Although E and Diluc were both individuals who had their grievances with the Knights of Favonius, E had no particr fondness for Diluc. The idea that "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" clearly didn''t apply to her.


    "Indeed, nothing remarkable," Diluc said nonchntly. "Just soft beds, fireces to dry your clothes, fresh food... and, of course, exclusive, nonmercially avable wine."


    At the mention of wine, the group''s ears collectively perked up. After all, for the people of Mondstadt, wine was as essential as Adobo to the Filipinos, Nasi Goreng to the Indonesians, or barbecue to the Americans.


    What''s more, this was exclusive, premium wine from Dawn Winery itself!


    "Master Jean!" one of the knights eximed. "Since we''re up against a tough battle tomorrow, it would be wise to let the team have proper rest tonight. Master Diluc is surely extending his hospitality with that in mind. We mustn''t decline his kindness!"


    That knight was none other than Venti in disguise. No one in the entire Knights of Favonius was more tempted by fine wine than him.


    "Hmph, think what you will," Diluc said, his tone indifferent. "I''m only doing this for Lucas."


    From a distance, Kaeya couldn''t help but smile wryly at this statement. "So, brotherly bonds do fade after all..." he muttered.


    Though Diluc and Kaeya often appeared at odds, they kept in secret correspondence and still cared for each other deeply. However, Kaeya was only an adopted brother. Compared to Lucas, who might share actual blood ties with Diluc, Kaeya evidently fell short.


    Ultimately, for the sake of the group''s well-being, Jean decided to ept Diluc''s invitation. The group would rest at Dawn Winery for the night and set out again in the morning.


    This decision was met with unanimous agreement. After all, tomorrow''s battle might be a deadly one. At the very least, they could enjoy onest feast.


    Diluc walked alongside Lucas, casually chatting. After a moment, a thought seemed to strike him, and he asked, "By the way, about the ck card I gave you... I''ve already been notified of the recent transactions by the finance department."


    Uh-oh.


    Lucas felt a chill run down his spine.


    The ck card Diluc had gifted him, with its one-billion-Mora annual limit, might have been intended as a polite gesture. But Lucas had gone and spent several million in just a few days. The look on Diluc''s face when he saw the bill couldn''t have been a pleasant one.


    And to make matters worse, fifty million Mora from that amount had been used as "ransom" for La Signora.


    "I''m terribly sorry!" Lucas quickly apologized. "A lot has happenedtely, but I''ll make sure to repay you over time."


    After all, he had a smithy in Mondstadt now. Little by little, he could chip away at the debt.


    "That''s not what I meant," Diluc said, shaking his head. "I realized that one billion might not be enough. I''ve already raised the card''s limit to three billion Mora. Spend as much as you need."


    Diluc''s reasoning was simple: the more ustomed Lucas became to a life of luxury, the easier it would be for him to naturally assume the responsibility of inheriting Dawn Winery.


    Lucas, however, was utterly dumbfounded.


    Are rich people happy? No. Their joy is something beyond what the average person can even fathom.


    ....


    After a brief period of organization, the Knights were assigned rooms.


    Although Dawn Winery had many guest rooms, amodating over a hundred people was still a challenge. The solution: four people per room.


    "Wait a second¡ªthere must be a mistake," Lucas said, bewildered as he looked at the three women sharing his room. "Why am I rooming with girls?"


    Indeed, the three sharing the room with Lucas were none other than Jean, E, and Lumine.


    Of course, Paimon was there too, but as emergency rations, she didn''t exactly count.


    "No mistake," E said, shrugging indifferently. "You''re the odd one out. What''s the big deal? It''s not like we''re sharing the same bed. Why are you making such a fuss?"


    "Though it''s admittedly a breach of etiquette," even Jean seemed unbothered, "the circumstances are unusual. We''ll just have to make do."


    "Exactly," Paimon chimed in, flopping onto the bed. "It''s so soft! Wayfier than Lucas'' bed. Right, Traveler?"


    "Paimon!" Lumine quickly tried to intervene, but it was toote. Both Jean and E turned their gazes toward her, curious.


    "It''s not what it sounds like." Lucas quickly rified. "Lumine didn''t have any money for lodging, so I let her crash at my ce for a night."


    "Yeah, yeah," Paimon added, puzzled. "But why do Jean and E look so tense about it?"


    "I-I''m not tense!" E turned away abruptly, lying down. "Let''s just get some sleep. I''m tired."


    "Y-yes," Jean agreed with a nod. "Tomorrow''s a big day. Rest is crucial."


    "You guys go ahead," Lumine said with a smile. "I slept too long earlier. I''m not sleepy now."


    "Same here," Paimon said, stroking her chin thoughtfully. "Let''s do something fun! How about a word game? I''ll start¡ª''as you wish''!"


    "Not a noisy game," Lucas warned gently. "You''ll disturb everyone else."


    "Oh, right..." Paimon paused, then brightened. "Hey, I''m curious¡ªwhat does Traveler''s brother look like? Endora, can you recreate the scenes from the Hydro Mirage?"


    "I can!" Endora said proudly. "But everyone saw different things in the mirage. I''ll have to show them one by one."


    "That makes it even better!" Paimon said, grinning. "We''ll get to see everyone''s dreams!"


    "I''d like to see my brother again," Lumine said with a nod. "If I can remember his face clearly, I might be able to use it for a missing-person poster."


    Though she still remembered Aether''s features, time had made them blurry.


    "This shouldn''t take long," Lucas estimated. "At ten seconds per scene, we''ll be done in under half an hour."


    "In that case, could I see mine as well?" Jean''s expression turned wistful. "Even if it''s just a fantasy, I want to feel that happiness again."


    "You''re wee to," Paimon said, turning to E. "What about you, E?"


    "I-I don''t want to!" E turned her back on them. "I''m going to sleep. Keep it down."


    Thus, Endora began reying the illusions, like a slideshow of everyone''s inner dreams.


    Interestingly, while Endora could project these dreams, she didn''t understand their deeper meaning¡ªshe simply mirrored what had been seen.


    Each dream was unique.


    Some knights dreamed of being celebrated heroes like Vennessa.


    Others fantasized about mountains of Mora orvish harems.


    Watching these scenes, Jean couldn''t help but reflect. Even the noble knights of Favonius harbored worldly, and sometimes sordid, desires.


    "Whoa! It''s Master Jean!"


    Paimon''s exmation drew everyone''s attention to thetest scene¡ªa vision of Jean herself.


    "This..." Jean''s cheeks turned a faint pink.


    "Well, that''s understandable," Lucas said, trying to defuse the situation. "Every man has an ideal girl he admires."


    As expected, the appearance of Jean in the mirages didn''t surprise anyone. If anything, it would have been more unusual for her <i>not</i> to appear.


    In addition to Jean, images of Lisa and Amber also surfaced in the illusions.


    Most bizarrely, even Kaeya made an appearance!


    Considering that the only women in the expedition were in this room, and the rest of the team were all men, this revtion left everyone scratching their heads.


    Jean, her cheeks faintly pink, tried to exin. "Ahem... Well, this is Mondstadt, a nation that celebrates freedom..."


    "Wait, even E is here!" Paimon eximed loudly. "Looks like you''re quite popr, E. Don''t you want to see for yourself?"


    "Stop spouting nonsense!" E, her back still to the group, grumbled in a low voice. "I''m not interested."


    "Wow! It''s E without clothes!" Paimon blurted out.


    "What?!" E shot upright in rm, jumping off the bed, only to see her projected image fully clothed on the screen.


    Realizing she had been tricked, E grabbed Paimon by the cheeks, squeezing them with frustration. "This mouth of yours¡ªalways making trouble! I''ll remember this grudge, you little brat!"


    "Shyoo save mee! (Jean, save me!)" Paimon''s muffled cries for help were ignored as Jean simply smiled. "You brought this upon yourself, Paimon. I can''t help you here."


    The mirages continued to roll. The next image of E showed her holding the family heirloom sword, standing atop a grand tform while the crowd cheered wildly below.


    Behind her, the Lawrence family banner billowed majestically in the wind¡ªa scene that exuded prestige and power.


    "Wait, this scene feels... different," Paimon said, puzzled. "Could this be E''s own illusion?"


    Restoring the Lawrence family to its former glory could only be E''s dream.


    "So what if it is?" E said without hesitation. "One day, I''ll make this vision a reality."


    "Hey, look!" Paimon suddenly pointed excitedly. "Are those children standing next to E hers?"


    In the projection, several well-dressed children stood by E''s side, all with striking features and an air of nobility.


    "Indeed," E replied matter-of-factly. "Once the Lawrence family is revitalized, I''ll ensure that its excellent genes are passed down through the generations."


    "And that man over there¡ªhe must be your husband, right?" Paimon teased.


    Paimon''s remark immediately drew everyone''s attention.


    Sure enough, the mirage now showed a man''s figure from behind, holding E''s hand with a tender intimacy. Her gaze toward him was filled with deep affection.


    "Wow, so E has a soft side too?"


    "Turn around! I want to see what E''s future husband looks like!"


    Paimon and Lumine were both chattering excitedly, unable to contain their curiosity.


    Even Jean, typically calm andposed, looked a little intrigued. Who was the man E envisioned herself with?


    "Don''t you think..." Paimon said, squinting at the screen, "this guy''s back looks familiar?"


    "Yeah," Lumine added, tilting her head. "I feel like I''ve seen him somewhere before."


    "No... Stop it right now!" E''s voice broke through, her embarrassment reaching its peak. A surge of icy energy appeared in her hands as she threatened, "Skip this scene or I''ll freeze you all into popsicles!"


    Startled, Endora immediately halted the projection. As a pure-water elemental, she was naturally vulnerable to ice.


    "Aww, what a pity!" Lumine and Paimon groaned in unison, their disappointment palpable.


    Jean, however, seemed relieved¡ªalmost as if a weight had been lifted.


    "Lumine, look over there!" Paimon gasped suddenly, her voice filled with astonishment. "That boy... doesn''t he look like you?"


    Lumine''s gaze snapped to the screen, and sure enough, a slender golden-haired boy appeared in the mirage, waving warmly.


    "It''s... my brother!" Lumine eximed, her voice trembling with excitement. "It''s really him!"


    Though it was only an illusion, the sight of Aether stirred a deep, emotional chord within her.


    Just as Lucas had spected, the boy in the vision was indeed Aether. Here, he appeared bright and cheerful¡ªa stark contrast to the brooding, somber Abyss Prince he had be.


    If Lumine knew her brother''s current state, it would surely break her heart.


    "Even if it''s just an illusion, it''sforting to see him," Lumine said softly, turning to Lucas with a grateful smile. "Thank you."


    "Don''t thank me just yet," Lucas replied with a reassuring grin. "Save it for when we find your brother."


    Finally, thest mirage began¡ªthe one Jean had been quietly waiting for.


    In the image, Jean''s family¡ªher parents and a younger Barbara¡ªwere happily gathered together, sharing a moment of peace and joy.


    Compared to E''s ambitious vision of restoring her family''s glory, Jean''s dream was simple and modest¡ªa longing for familial harmony.


    When the mirage ended, Lucas handed Jean a small, ornate box.


    "What''s this?" Jean asked curiously.


    "It''s a recording of the mirage," Lucas exined with a gentle smile. "You can y it back with a projector. For you, this wasn''t just an illusion¡ªit was a memory."


    Indeed, the scenes depicted in Jean''s vision were moments from her past, from a time when her family was whole and unbroken.


    Moved by his thoughtfulness, Jean clutched the box tightly to her chest and said earnestly, "I''ll treasure this. Thank you. Good night."


    "Good night."


    As the hour grewte, the group, including their small emergency food, soon drifted off to sleep.


    That night passed in peace and tranquility.

 Chapter 156: Villain Simulator, Ch 155

    <h4>Chapter 156: Viin Simtor, Ch 155</h4>


    It had to be said¡ªJean''s decision to let the expedition team rest at Dawn Winery was undoubtedly the right call.


    There''s nothing quite asforting as waking up in a warm, cozy bed. However, this particr warmth seemed a little <i>too</i>fortable¡ªalmost as if it were at a precise 36.5 degrees.


    Lucas slowly opened his eyes, intending to stretchzily as usual. But to his surprise, his arm was restrained by something¡ªor rather, someone.


    Looking down, Lucas nearly gasped aloud.


    E was lying beside him, her arms wrapped tightly around his, her face rxed in peaceful slumber.


    ncing around the room, Lucas noticed that Jean''s bed had already been neatly made, while Lumine and Paimon were still fast asleep.


    Just then, E stirred, rubbing her eyes groggily before slowly waking up. She froze the moment she realized she wasn''t alone in bed.


    "You... You''ve got some nerve!" E eximed, her face flushing crimson. "How dare you sneak into <i>my</i> bed!"


    "Take another look, will you?" Lucas replied with a smile. "This is <i>my</i> bed!"


    E blinked in confusion before ncing over at the other bed. Sure enough, her own bedding was tossed aside, her sheets in disarray.


    "Don''t tell me... Did I get up in the middle of the night and identally climb into the wrong bed when I came back?" she muttered to herself, trying to piece together the situation.


    As a noblewoman used to her own space, E wasn''t ustomed to shared sleeping arrangements. It wasn''t hard to imagine her mistakenly crawling into the wrong bed during the night.


    "Rise and shine!"


    With a cheerful shout, Lumine leapt out of bed, brimming with energy. "That was the best sleep I''ve had in ages!"


    "Yaaaawn..." Paimon stretched with azy yawn, still drowsy. "Can''t I sleep just a little longer?"


    "No cking!" Lumine grabbed Paimon and began dragging her off the bed. "Captain Jean''s already up and about!"


    "But Lucas is still asleep!" Paimon pointed toward Lucas, her brows furrowed. "Wait... Where''s E?"


    Lucas stiffened, pulling the nket higher. Underneath it, E huddled against his side, her presence concealed.


    "She must''ve woken up early too," Lucas said, offering an awkward smile. "Probably went to the restroom or something."


    "Really?" Paimon tilted her head, puzzled. "I didn''t think E was the early bird type."


    "Oh, she is," Lucas replied hastily. "I heard she has a... well, let''s just say she has some health habits that make her get up early. Something about... needing the restroom urgently in the morning."


    "Hmm..." Paimon looked unconvinced but didn''t press further.


    Suddenly, Lucas winced, his expression tightening as if in pain.


    Under the covers, E had chomped down on his arm in silent fury, clearly displeased with his excuse.


    "Is everything alright?" Lumine asked, raising an eyebrow. "What''s under your nket? You''re holding it awfully tight."


    Although the morning chill lingered, Lucas''s athletic physique meant he didn''t need to bundle up quite so much.


    "Ah-ha!" Paimon hovered in front of him, grinning mischievously. "Are you hiding something delicious under there? Maybe... Sweet Madame?"


    "Who in their right mind would stash food under their nket?" Lucas said, hurriedlying up with a distraction. "I... I''m used to sleeping half-naked. You guys go out first. I need to change clothes... Anyway, you should hurry! Dawn Winery''s breakfast is supposed to be amazing, but if you''rete, it might all be gone!"


    "No way!"


    At the mention of food, Paimon immediately perked up, grabbing Lumine''s hand. "Let''s go, quick!"


    "Wait, Paimon, slow down!" Lumine protested as the littlepanion dragged her out of the room.


    The door clicked shut, and Lucas let out a sigh of relief. He threw off the nket, revealing E, still in her pajamas, biting his arm indignantly. Because of the sudden loss of the nket, her body also subconsciously shrank slightly due to the cold.


    "You''re still biting me?" Lucas raised an eyebrow. "We almost got caught because of you."


    "Well, whose fault is that?" E released his arm and red at him. "You''re the one spouting nonsense! Calling me... constipated?!"


    "Well, what was I supposed to say?" Lucas retorted.


    E puffed her cheeks in annoyance, only for Lucas to smirk mischievously. Grabbing her slender arm, he leaned down and gently bit her wrist in return.


    Though he didn''t bite hard, E yelped in surprise, snatching her arm back. Faint teeth marks were now visible on her otherwise wless skin.


    "You''ve got some nerve!"


    E''s face flushed even deeper as she balled her fists. "You think you can just do that? Fine, I''ll bite you until you bleed! The name ''Lawrence'' will be written backward if I don''t!"


    Her fiery derationunched them into a yful tussle.


    Their scuffle was more yful than serious, filled with light-hearted teasing. At one point, there was a faint tearing sound¡ªthe silky fabric of E''s pajamas had ripped slightly, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of her pale skin beneath.


    Realizing their close proximity, both froze. The atmosphere shifted, a faint tension filling the air.


    "So..." Lucas finally broke the silence, his tone sly. "About that man in your mirage yesterday... Who was he?"


    E''s eyes widened, caught off guard by the sudden question. Already flustered, her cheeks deepened to a vivid red.


    "Th-that''s none of your business!" she stammered, avoiding his gaze.


    "Oh? So it wasn''t me, then?" Lucas feigned disappointment, letting out an exaggerated sigh. "Must''ve been some other man."


    "I... I didn''t say it was another man!" As if afraid that Lucas might misunderstand, E hurriedly exined, "It''s... it''s you, so what? It''s just a fantasy, it can''t be real."


    "Well, if this keeps up..." Lucas leaned closer, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Maybe it''ll be real."


    "Tch..." E now had the upper hand, standing tall with a cold smirk. "You have the desire but not the guts. You''re just talking big..."


    Before she could finish, Lucas suddenly flipped over, turning the situation upside down in an instant, gaining control.


    "Right, I do love to talk, but something else is big too," Lucas grinned. "Want to try it out?"


    Although E is virgin, she frequently visited taverns and overheard some crude talk, so she had a general idea of what Lucas meant.


    "If you dare, then go ahead," E didn''t refuse, but scoffed. "I can''t resist now anyway. If it''s just to repay the favor for when you helped me, I''m fine with that."


    Her words carried a mix of pride and vulnerability.


    [Image here]


    "Well, since you put it that way, I can''t back out now." Lucas chuckled softly, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "Paimon was right. I hid something tasty under the nket. Do you want to try?"


    -----


    Author''s Note: :)

 Chapter 157: Villain Simulator, Ch 156

    <h4>Chapter 157: Viin Simtor, Ch 156</h4>


    <strong>R-18 Scene</strong>


    Lucas leaned in, his breath warm against E''s cheek. He pressed his lips softly to hers, a gentle kiss that lingered just long enough to make her heart race. E''s eyes widened in surprise, but she didn''t pull away. Instead, she leaned into the kiss, her lips parting slightly.


    "Mmn~"


    Lucas deepened the kiss, his tongue brushing lightly against hers. E let out a soft moan, her hands finding their way into his hair. The room seemed to spin around them as they lost themselves in the moment.


    When they finally broke apart, both breathless, Lucas trailed kisses down her jawline and neck, sending shivers of pleasure through E. His hands found their way to her chest, gently cupping her breasts through her thin pajama top. E gasped, arching her back slightly as his thumbs circled her nipples, feeling them harden under his touch.


    "You''re being too forward," she whispered, but her body betrayed her, leaning into his caress.


    Lucas smiled, his hands moving to the buttons of her top. He undid them slowly, one by one, revealing more of her smooth, pale skin. He pushed the fabric aside, his eyes drinking in the sight of her bare breasts. Leaning down, he took one nipple into his mouth, swirling his tongue around it before sucking gently.


    E moaned, gripping his shoulders tightly. Lucasvished attention on her breasts, his mouth and hands igniting a fire of desire within her. He could feel her heart racing, her breathing in quick gasps.


    After a few moments, Lucas lifted his head, his eyes locking with E''s. He offered her a soft, reassuring smile before trailing kisses down her stomach, moving lower. E watched him, her breath hitching as he hooked his fingers into the waistband of her pajama pants and slowly pulled them down, revealing herpletely.


    Lucas caressed and kissed her plump thighs, making her squirm in anticipation.


    He looked up at her, a yful glint in his eyes. "Can I taste you first instead?" he asked with a teasing smile.


    "Y-You''re shameless," she stammered, her voice a blend of embarrassment and longing. Yet, she didn''t push him away. Instead, a soft sigh escaped her lips as she melted into his touch.


    E nodded, her cheeks flushed and her eyes sparkling with desire. Lucas grinned, lowering his head between her legs. He began with soft, tender kisses, causing E to gasp and squirm. He took his time, gradually building her pleasure, his tongue and lips working wonders on her most sensitive spot.


    "Ahhhn~ Ah~ Ah~ Hyahn~"


    E''s moans echoed in the room, her hands clutching the sheets tightly. Lucas sensed her nearing the edge, her body tensing with each wave of pleasure. He nced up at her, their eyes locking as he brought her closer to climax.


    Just as E was about to reach her peak, Lucas pulled back slightly, a teasing smile ying on his lips. E let out a frustrated groan. Lucas chuckled, moving back up her body, his lips finding hers once more.


    "Not so fast," he whispered against her lips. "I want you to taste yourself on me first."


    "Y-you''re so mean," she murmured, her voiceced with embarrassment, her cheeks burning as sheplied, her tongue exploring his mouth, savoring the sweetness of her own arousal. Lucas groaned, pressing his body against hers, she could feel his hardness pressing against her thigh.


    E''s hands wandered to his pants, her fingers fumbling with the buttons. Lucas assisted her, quickly shedding his clothes until he stood as bare as she was. E''s eyes widened as she took in his form, her breath catching slightly.


    "Go ahead," Lucas urged, his voice thick with desire. "Touch me."


    E reached out hesitantly, her fingers wrapping around his cock. Lucas groaned, his hips instinctively jerking at her touch. E looked up at him, a mix of curiosity and desire shining in her eyes. She began to stroke him slowly, her grip tightening as her confidence grew.


    Lucas let out a low moan, his head tilting back slightly. E watched him, her own arousal intensifying as she witnessed the pleasure she was giving him. She leaned down, her tongue teasingly brushing against the tip of his cock. Lucas gasped, his fingers weaving through her hair.


    E took it into her mouth, her lips and tongue exploring cautiously at first, then with increasing eagerness. Lucas groaned, his hips moving in sync with her rhythm. He gazed down at her, his eyes brimming with desire and affection.


    "Sister E..." he murmured, his voice thick with pleasure. "You''re incredible."


    E looked up at him, her eyes shining with pride and desire. She continued to pleasure him, her own body yearning for more. Lucas could feel himself getting closer, his body tensing with each wave of pleasure.


    <strong>[R-18 Scene ends]</strong>


    Just then-


    "What the heck? If you forgot your bag, get it yourself! Why make Paimon fly back just because I''m faster?"


    Grumbling to herself, Paimon flew through the window into the room¡ªonly to freeze, her eyes widening at the scene before her.


    "You... What are you two doing?!"


    Both Lucas and E looked shocked. Though they had locked the door, neither had anticipated Paimon''s entrance via the window.


    Before Lucas could exin, Paimon puffed up angrily and dered, "You''re sneaking treats in the nket, aren''t you?! What are you feeding E? Is it Sweet Madame?"


    It seemed Paimon''s innocent mind hadpletely misinterpreted the situation, assuming E was simply enjoying some secret snacks.


    "Y-Yes, you got me!" Lucas forced augh, pulling the nket tighter around him. "It''s just as you say."


    "So that''s why you rushed us out!" Paimon crossed her arms, huffing. "You''re spoiling E with extra snacks behind our backs. I want some too!"


    "No way!" E peeked out from under the nket, looking flustered. "It''s something... you won''t be able to handle."


    "Who do you think you''re talking to?" Paimon patted her belly confidently. "Paimon''s stomach leads to a whole other dimension!"


    Of course, E wasn''t referring to the capacity of Paimon''s stomach, but rather... something else entirely.


    "In any case, it''s off-limits!" E blurted out, raising her voice in nervous defiance. "I love it too much to share!"


    "Hmph. I understand." Paimon nodded seriously, her tone oddly mature. "If it''s something you love, then it''s only fair you keep it for yourself. I won''t eat it."


    Lucas sighed in relief. However, Paimon quickly followed up with a mischievous grin.


    "But I''m telling Traveler you two were eating snacks without me!"


    "No, you can''t!" Lucas interjected hastily. "Paimon, this has to stay between us!"


    Though Paimon might not grasp the full context, sharing this with others could lead to unintended chaos.


    Predictably, Paimon''s expression twisted into a cheeky, almost viinous grin.


    "I''ll keep your secret, but only if you promise to meet one condition," she said, blinking innocently.


    Paimon had learned the art of bargaining!


    Lucas sighed but nodded. "Alright, what''s your condition?"


    Paimon''s demeanor shifted as she replied with surprising seriousness: "Promise me you''ll protect Traveler during this mission."


    "You..." Lucas was momentarily taken aback by her earnestness. "You seem unusually serious about this."


    "Ugh! You''re so annoying!" Paimon puffed up her cheeks, flustered. "Can''t I be serious for once?"


    "Got it," Lucas chuckled. "Even if you didn''t say anything, I''d still do my best to protect Lumine... and everyone else too."


    "Good." Paimon sighed in relief, then added with a smirk, "But if anything happens to Traveler, you''ll have to take care of me instead!"


    With that, the littlepanion grabbed Lumine''s bag and zipped back out the window, leaving Lucas and E in awkward silence.


    "That was close," Lucas muttered, wiping his brow. "Let''s just leave it here for now."


    "No way." E''s expression turned resolute. "Lawrence family rule number five: finish everything you start."


    "Wasn''t it rule six?" Lucas quipped.


    After all, he had personally written the so-called "Lawrence Family Rules" back in the simtion.


    "How do you know that?" E asked, confused.


    "I, uh, just guessed," Lucas stammered before ruffling her hair to change the subject. "If you''re somitted to finishing things, let''s get moving. We don''t have much time."


    "Don''t mess up my hair...!" E huffed.


    Meanwhile, at an Abyss Order Stronghold


    "Prince, I humbly report..."


    Kulechet stood before the Abyss Order''s leader, her head bowed low in shame. Her voice was tinged with guilt. "The mission failed. I couldn''t retrieve the human girl. I await your punishment."


    The so-called "Prince" was a golden-haired young man with a gentle, ethereal beauty. He was none other than Lumine''s brother, Aether, who had once appeared in her dreams.


    No one knew what had happened during the long years while Lumine had slept¡ªwhat had transformed Aether into the Prince of the Abyss Order.


    "I see," Aether replied calmly. "It doesn''t matter. Proceed with the original n. Even if she is my sister, she cannot stand in the way of the Abyss Order."


    "She''s your sister?" Kulechet seemed taken aback.


    Hearing this revtion, she felt a momentary sense of relief, followed by a deep wave of despondency.


    What does it matter? she thought bitterly. This broken, tainted body of mine has long been unworthy of the noble, divine Prince.


    "That was a long time ago," Aether said, ncing at Kulechet with an impassive expression. "Tell me, why did the mission fail?"


    "It was... a man named Lucas," Kulechet answered, her toneplicated. "I was no match for him."


    In every sense of the word, she thought silently.


    "Don''t me yourself," Aether said. "I trust your abilities. Next time, I expect better results."


    "This man..." Kulechet bowed her head, her voice firm. "I have a feeling he''ll be a major obstacle for the Abyss Order in the future. When the timees, I''ll bring you his head!"


    Back at Dawn Winery


    "Ah-choo!"


    Lucas sneezed loudly at the winery''s entrance,pletely unaware that he had already caught someone''s attention.


    "You seem a little off," Jean said with concern. "I''m sorry¡ªit''s my fault for insisting on watching the miragesst night. Did you not get enough rest?"


    "No, no, it''s not your fault!" Lucas quickly reassured her. "I''ll be fine in no time."


    After all, he thought wryly, not everyone gets to enjoy a wake-up nibble from E.


    He nced toward E, who was standing nearby. To his surprise, she was looking at him too. Their eyes met briefly before E turned away, her face slightly flushed.


    "It seems everyone''s ready to go," Diluc said, stepping out of the mansion. "Shall we depart?"


    Unlike his usual dark attire, Diluc was now wearing a ck-and-red jacket, his long crimson hair tied into a neat ponytail. He looked sharp andposed, as though fully prepared for battle.


    ----


    Author''s note: Extra Chapter :)


    Join the discord at <strong>discord.gg/NiaxD</strong>. I''ll be doing polls and other novel-rted stuff there in the future.


    Support me on patreon if you can at /NiaxD and you can read up to Chapter 201!


    Otherwise you can just give me your Powerstones here!


    <strong>Next extra Chapter at 1600 p.s</strong>

 Chapter 158: Villain Simulator, Ch 157

    <h4>Chapter 158: Viin Simtor, Ch 157</h4>


    "Thank you, Master Diluc, for your hospitality," Jean said with a nod. "We will be leaving now."


    "Good," Diluc replied impassively. "Let''s go."


    "W-What?" Jean eximed, startled. "Are you saying you n to assist the Knights of Favonius in this expedition?"


    Jean was well aware of Diluc''s strength. Even she wasn''t confident in defeating him inbat. If he were to join their operation, the odds of sess would increase significantly.


    "I''m not assisting the Knights of Favonius," Diluc said coldly. "I''m here to assist Lucas. I don''t want my friend to be put in danger."


    "I see." Jean smiled faintly, misinterpreting his motive. She assumed Diluc''s reasoning was just an excuse. Little did she know... he genuinely came only for Lucas.


    To Diluc, Lucas''s position in the Ragnvindr family lineage was nearly as important as his own¡ªperhaps even higher than Kaeya''s.


    Although Diluc often expressed disdain for the Knights of Favonius, he had once been part of their ranks. Combined with his extraordinary strength and the goodwill he demonstrated by hosting them at Dawn Winery, the members of the expedition were more than happy to have him join them.


    After all, no one wouldin about improving their chances of survival.


    Perhaps thanks to the good rest they had the previous night, the expedition team moved much faster today.


    After bypassing Wolvendom, they finally reached their destination: the ruins of Stormterror''s Lair.


    The area was a massive basin and the location of Old Mondstadt.


    Even before they approached, the team felt the oppressive force of strong winds. Upon reaching the entrance, they encountered a massive storm barrier blocking their way.


    "A barrier formed from wind?"


    Jean took a few steps back, resting her hand on the hilt of her sword. "Everyone, step aside. Let me see if I can break through it."


    Besides Venti, who was concealing his true identity, Jean was the only one in the group wielding an Anemo Vision.


    Her strength was already remarkable among the younger generation, and after her trials on the Golden Apple Archipgo, she had grown even stronger.


    "Let''s see how you handle this new move," Jean said, swinging her longsword forcefully. A massive wind de surged toward the storm barrier with a howl. "Wind de Strike!"


    Impressive!


    The team couldn''t help but silently praise her. Even Lucas nodded in approval.


    Though his own strength far surpassed Jean''s, it was the result of many "cheats" along the way. Jean, barely in her twenties, had achieved such prowess through sheer effort.


    However, the fierce wind de struck the storm barrier, leaving only a faint crack before dissipating into elemental particles.


    "It''s not enough," Jean muttered, frowning. "Looks like I''ll need to try a few more times."


    With that, she resumed her attacks, shing her sword repeatedly at the barrier.


    "Hey, Venti," Lucas whispered, standing beside him. "You should have a way to deal with this, right? You <i>are</i> the Anemo Archon, after all."


    "Of course I do," Venti replied confidently. "Cover me while I y the Skyward Harp. With it, I can¡ªoh no! My harp! Ipletely forgot¡ªJean confiscated it after E arrested me!"


    Barbatos... can''t you take anything seriously?


    Lucas sighed inwardly, frustrated by Venti''s unreliability.


    Meanwhile, Jean had unleashed over a dozen wind des, but the cracks on the storm barrier barely grew.


    "Jean, take a break," Lucas said, stepping forward with a smile. "Let me give it a shot."


    Unlike Jean, he didn''t rely on elemental power. Instead, he stood before the storm barrier, drawing his fists close to his body as he exhaled slowly, seemingly gathering energy.


    "You''ve got to be kidding..." Kaeya rubbed his chin, intrigued. "Does he really n to break the storm barrier with his bare hands?"


    The storm barrier,posed of violent, razor-sharp winds, was like a massive meat grinder. Even approaching it would cause countlesscerations on bare flesh.


    "Heroic Intent..."


    Golden energy began to emanate from Lucas''s fist, growing brighter by the second. Suddenly, he struck the barrier with an explosive force, sending a shockwave rippling through the air. "Charging Fist!"


    With Lucas''s growing strength, his Charging Fist technique was far stronger than before. He no longer needed to endure attacks to umte energy and could charge up on his own.


    His punchnded squarely on the crack Jean had created earlier. The impact triggered a deafening sonic boom, and the resulting shockwave knocked several nearby Knights of Favonius off their feet.


    Even those with stronger footing, like Jean and Diluc, found themselves stumbling. The sheer force of the strike was staggering.


    But what shocked everyone more was Lucas''s sheer strength.


    To destroy a storm barrier without using elemental power was a feat few could aplish. Among the Knights of Favonius, perhaps only Grand Master Varka could match such raw power.


    "Phew, that hurt!" Lucas shook his hand, turning to Jean with a grin. "Your earlier strikes really helped. Without them, I don''t think I could''ve broken the barrier so easily."


    His words were clearly meant to save Jean''s pride. Most could see that her wind des had barely scratched the surface.


    It was Lucas''s punch that had sted arge hole through the barrier, highlighting the disparity in their strength.


    Whispers began spreading among the group as they wondered: between Lucas and the renowned Diluc, who was stronger?


    Suddenly, a massive fireball descended from the sky, hurtling toward the expedition team.


    Diluc stepped forward, a ymore appearing in his hands. With a swift swing, he unleashed a fiery sh that collided with the fireball, creating a mid-air explosion.


    "Enemy attack!"


    The fireball''s caster was revealed to be a floating Pyro Abyss Mage. Behind him were seven or eight more Abyss Mages, along with hordes of Hilichurls and Mitachurls.


    "It seems we''ve walked into an ambush," Kaeya said, still calm. "Jean, leave this to us. You and the others go through the barrier and find Stormterror. Once we''re done here, we''ll join you."


    Jean understood his reasoning. Their mission wasn''t about overwhelming numbers. Taking too many people would be counterproductive. It was better to have them hold the rear and prevent any surprise attacks.


    "We''re counting on you," Jean said with a nod. "Stay safe."


    Diluc nced at Kaeya, who smirked. "What? Nothing you want to say to me?"


    "These enemies aren''t particrly challenging," Diluc replied dismissively. "Just don''t die."


    For someone as reserved as Diluc, those three words carried significant weight.


    "Normally, I detest fighting these creatures," Kaeya murmured once the others had left. His usual smile faded into an uncharacteristic solemnity. "I''ll try to make this as painless as possible... my fellow kin."


    ...


    Ultimately, only five and a half members of the hundred-strong expedition team made it through the storm barrier: Lucas, Jean, E, Diluc, Lumine, and Paimon.


    Venti remained outside, tasked with holding off the Abyss Order''s pursuing forces alongside the rest of the team.


    Of course, knowing Venti''s personality, he''d likely ck off even if his strength was considerable.


    A piercing dragon''s roar suddenly echoed through the ruins. The towering, verdant dragon Dvalin spiraled through the sky before flying toward the distant central spire¡ªa grand tower standing at the heart of Stormterror''s Lair.


    This was once the pce of Decarabian, the Tyrant of the Tower, the cruel ruler of Old Mondstadt.


    From atop this spire, he had once surveyed the people who bowed to his will.


    Now, the old tyrant was long gone, but a new threat lurked within the ruins.


    "Look at those rings around the tower!" Paimon eximed, pointing at the threerge circr barriers encircling the structure.


    "Those are the Rings of Raging Winds," Jean exined. "I''ve read about them in historical texts. Decarabian constructed these barriers to protect his pce from invaders."


    "Then doesn''t Stormterror have a hard time getting home every day?" Paimon frowned.


    "He flies," Lucas chuckled. "He doesn''t need to walk."


    "Oh, I see," Lumine said with a nod, looking serious. "In that case, Paimon, we''ll leave the task of subduing Stormterror to you!"


    "Got it! Leave it to me!" Paimon said confidently, puffing up her tiny chest. Then she folded her arms and pouted. "Wait a second! Are you serious? That big guy could eat me in one bite! And my flight... I definitely can''t get through those rings, no matter how I try!"


    Indeed, while Paimon could "float," she was incapable of true flight. Even if she managed to reach the rings, the violent winds would undoubtedly knock her back.


    "What should we do?" E asked, frowning as she stared at the distant dragon''s silhouette high above. "We can''t just give up here."


    "Actually, these Rings of Raging Winds can only be deactivated with specific elemental powers," Jean said thoughtfully. "The rebels who overthrew Decarabian''s reign seeded by breaking through these barriers with the help of heroes wielding three key elements."


    "Wow, Jean seems to know a lot about this," Paimon said, tilting her head in curiosity. "But wasn''t that over two thousand years ago?"


    "I''m ashamed to admit it, but the ancestors of the Gunnhildr n were among the rebels who fought against Decarabian," Jean sighed. "Many of the secrets from that time have been passed down within my family."


    "What''s there to be ashamed of?" Lumine asked, puzzled. "Wasn''t Decarabian a tyrant? Overthrowing him sounds like an act of justice."


    "True, but as knights, betraying one''s monarch is still a dishonorable act," Jean said with a touch of mncholy. "The three n leaders who destroyed the barriers were Gunnhildr with Anemo, Lawrence with Cryo, and the now-extinct Imuukr n with Pyro..."


    Ironically, Decarabian had designed the barriers to ensure no single n could overthrow him.


    But his oppressive rule was so despised that the three ns united against him, turning his airtight defenses into his undoing.


    "Anemo and Cryo are covered," E remarked with a cold snort. "But how can we be sure Diluc will help us?"


    "Sir Diluc''s involvement was unexpected," Jean admitted, pulling a few round bombs from her pouch. "I had originally nned to use Klee''s elemental bombs to simte Pyro."


    That''s... probably grounds for vandalism charges.


    "Wow! So we''re going to see the three ns unite again to storm the tower?" Paimon said excitedly. "This must be fate''s wheel turning full circle!"


    "Correction: the Ragnvindr n wasn''t one of the original three," Diluc said without looking back, walking toward the tower. "And I''ve never believed in fate."


    Indeed, the Ragnvindr n only rose to prominence after assisting Vennessa in liberating Mondstadt, eventually recing the fallen Imuukr n.


    The mechanisms controlling the Rings of Raging Winds were distributed in a triangr formation around the tower. Lucas and hispanions quickly located the first one. The ancient tform was battered and weathered, but the crimson orb atop it still emitted a faint glow.


    "I''ll handle the first one," Diluc said, summoning a burst of mes that engulfed the orb.


    As soon as the Pyro element made contact, the orb glowed brightly, and one of the rings surrounding the tower dimmed.


    "That was easy," E said, though her tone held doubt. "Doesn''t seem like the defenses were all that impressive after all."


    "It''s not that simple," Diluc said, a bead of sweat forming on his forehead. "I have to keep channeling Pyro to maintain the mechanism. If I stop, the ring will reactivate immediately."


    The group finally understood. Decarabian''s design was cunning¡ªactivating the barriers required constant energy input, forcing rebellious ns to dedicate their strongest fighters to holding the rings open.


    "No time to waste!" Diluc said, uncharacteristically tense. "I can hold this for half an hour at most. Jean, E, you need to activate the other two mechanisms. As for subduing Stormterror... Lucas, I''m counting on you."


    This wasn''t a matter of shirking responsibility¡ªit was simply the only viable strategy.


    Diluc''s trust in Lucas spoke volumes. In all of Mondstadt, there were likely no more than three people he would entrust with such a task.


    "I''ll do my best," Lucas nodded firmly. "Leave it to me!"


    Lumine clenched her fists. "Paimon and I will help too!"


    "I''ll, uh... do my best not to mess things up!" Paimon added nervously.


    With the situation urgent, Jean and E quickly located the other two mechanisms. However, due to their slightly weaker elemental outputpared to Diluc, their ability to maintain the mechanisms was more limited.


    Lucas and Lumine wasted no time. As soon as the rings were disabled, they rushed into the tower.


    Inside, both were taken aback.


    "This is... way too tall!" Paimon eximed, craning her neck so far she nearly toppled over.


    The interior of the tower was dpidated from centuries of decay. Even if there were stairs, it would take far longer than half an hour to reach the top.


    "Look, there''s an wind current here!" Lumine pointed to a gust of wind swirling upward. "If we use Anemo, we might be able to ride it to the top."


    Lucas hesitated but sighed. "At this point, we don''t have a choice. Let''s give it a shot."


    Climbing the tower floor by floor would be exhausting enough to render them incapable of fighting.


    With that, the two and a halfpanions stepped into the wind current.


    Although Lumine didn''t possess a Vision, she had already unlocked the first element: Anemo.


    This uncanny alignment with the mechanisms and the wind current struck Lucas as strange. It felt as though everything¡ªfrom the three elemental barriers to the wind current¡ªhad been scripted, perfectly tailored to their group.


    Of course, it might just be a coincidence. If there really were a "script," who could possibly be its author?


    "Ready when you are!" Lumine said, gathering Anemo energy in her hands. "Three, two, one¡ªlift off... wait, what?"


    ---


    Author''s Note: oops sorry for dy

 Chapter 159: Villain Simulator, Ch 158

    <h4>Chapter 159: Viin Simtor, Ch 158</h4>


    Just as Lucas and Lumine were about to ascend via the wind current, Lucas suddenly extended his hand and pushed Lumine out of the airflow.


    "This is as far as you go," Lucas said, smiling and waving. "Leave the rest to me."


    "Wait just a second¡ª"


    Before Lumine could finish her sentence, Lucas was already soaring upward, carried by the rising winds. In the blink of an eye, his figure disappeared into the heights of the massive tower, hundreds of meters above.


    "Damn it!" Lumine stomped her foot in frustration, ring at the vanishing figure of Lucas. "That guy¡ªhe totally sees me as a burden, doesn''t he?"


    "Maybe this is just his way of protecting you," Paimon murmured softly. "Looks like he hasn''t forgotten the promise he made to me..."


    "Huh?" Lumine looked puzzled. "What promise did he make to you?"


    "N-Nothing!" Paimon quickly shook her head. "So, what do we do now?"


    "What else can we do?" Lumine huffed, ncing around at the now-fading wind current. "We climb to the top and give him a good scolding when we catch up!"


    Meanwhile, Lucas gently descended onto the summit of the tower, carried by the breeze.


    Everything around him seemed minuscule, like dust in the vast expanse.


    The architecture at the summit hinted at the grandeur of Decarabian''s pce in its prime. Though the walls were crumbled and the columns copsed, the throne at the apex of the staircase still radiated an oppressive aura.


    Even coated with a thickyer of dust, it seemed untouched by the swirling winds that had worn everything else around it.


    So, this is where the tyrant Decarabian once sat, looking down upon his subjects as they bowed in submission?


    For reasons unknown, Lucas found himself momentarily forgetting the mission to subdue Stormterror. Compelled by an inexplicable urge, he began ascending the staircase, step by step, until he stood before the throne.


    [What''s the matter? Thinking of sitting down and getting a taste of what it felt like to be the tyrant?]


    The system, silent for so long, suddenly teased him.


    "I feel like... something is calling to me," Lucas murmured.


    As his fingers brushed against the throne, the dust that had settled on it was swept away in an instant. He noticed countless inscriptions etched into the stone.


    It was written in Old Mondstadt script¡ªanguage long abandoned¡ªbut Lucas found himself instinctively understanding its meaning.


    "''I am Decarabian, God of Storms and Lord of the Tower. Upon this throne, I inscribe the chronicles of my life...''"


    [Congrattions, host. You''ve triggered a special condition and unlocked the exclusive Simtion: Broken Dreams of the God King.]


    "Exclusive Simtion?" Lucas frowned. "Howe you never told me about this before? Aren''t we supposed to be on the same side?"


    [It''s not that I hid it from you. Exclusive Simtions have extremely rare activation conditions¡ªyou might not encounter one even once in your lifetime.]


    [In short, certain actions or events must meet specific criteria to activate an exclusive Simtion.]


    [Exclusive Simtionse with preselected talents tied to the character being simted. You won''t be able to choose new ones.]


    [However, just like with standard Simtions, you can still keep one talent permanently after the simtion ends.]


    It seemed touching the throne had been the trigger for this simtion.


    The life he was about to simte was undoubtedly that of the Tower Lord himself.


    Now wasn''t the ideal time to engage in a simtion, but considering the strength of Decarabian''s talents, any opportunity to enhance his power before battling Stormterror was worth taking.


    "Activate the Simtion!"


    [Exclusive Simtion Activated]


    [Starting Talents]


    [Majestic Aura (Gold)]: You naturally exude a regal presence, making it easier for weaker beings to submit to you. The more creatures that pledge allegiance to you, the stronger you be.


    [Endless Tempest (Gold)]: As the Lord of Wind, you possess unparalleled control over the Anemo element. Tornadoes dance to yourmand, and hurricanes bow to your will.


    [Protective Gale (Purple)]: Blessed by ferocious winds, you are perpetually surrounded by cutting wind des. The stronger you be, the greater their range and power.


    Lucas couldn''t believe his eyes.


    Two gold talents and one purple talent¡ªhe''d never seen such an incredible starting setup in all his simtions.


    Of course, it made sense. Decarabian was a god, after all. Without such formidable abilities, he wouldn''t have risen to rule Old Mondstadt as a tyrant.


    [Simtion Begins]


    [Age 0: You are born in the deste, ancient past, when the verdant earth still appeared pale as bone. As the incarnation of the tempest, you possess innate mastery over the winds. (Endless Tempest activated)]


    [Age 17: As a storm god, you do not require training or study to wield immense power. Fierce wind des surround you constantly, slicing apart anything thates too close to protect you. (Protective Gale activated)]


    [Age 34: A group of monsters attacks you, coveting the energy you harbor within. Though you have not yet learned to fight, they are shredded to pieces by your wind des the moment they approach.]


    [Age 67: Your divine power grows rapidly, but your awareness develops slowly. For a long time, you exist in a state of chaos. Over time, you begin to form a consciousness.]


    [Age 81: You start to ponder the meaning of existence. For the first time, you experience an unfamiliar sensationter, you wille to know this feeling as "loneliness."]


    [Age 90: While wandering, youe across a wolf pup and find it endearing. You approach it, hoping to y, but your protective windssh out, causing it to cry out in pain.]


    [Hearing its cries, the mother wolf charges at you, mistaking your approach for an attack. Despite being shredded by your winds, she bites down on your arm, refusing to let go until her body copses from her wounds.]


    [The pup''s gaze is filled with fear and hatred. You refrain from approaching it further, sighing in regret. Your winds are both your shield and your curse, granting you invulnerability but isting you from all living things.]


    [Age 134: You continue your aimless wanderings. Most creatures fear your power instinctively, but a few, desiring your abilities, attempt to attack you. Of course, they are swiftly defeated or torn apart.]


    [With your protective winds, you fear no foe. Any assant is unable to get close, and even projectiles or elemental attacks are torn to shreds.]


    [Age 216: After two centuries, your reputation spreads. Seeking distraction from your solitude, you begin challenging opponents for sport. Yet your overwhelming strength leaves you without true rivals. Most beings either despise or fear you. Those who fear you are spared.]


    [One such spared creature does not flee but kneels in reverence. For the first time, you feel a small spark of fulfillment.]


    [You permit it to follow you, albeit at a distance. Your presence shields it from danger, as few enemies dare to challenge you.]


    [Age 254: Gradually, more creatures join your ranks. Though you remain distant and silent, their reverence soothes your loneliness. Even if their loyalty stems from self-preservation, you take sce in their worship.]


    [Age 318: Your followers form a settlement, constructing shrines and altars in your honor. They offer food and treasures as tribute. You ept it all, treating the settlement as your domain and patrolling it regrly.]


    [Age 429: The settlement expands, but you are displeased. Over generations, the creatures'' reverence wanes. Their descendants no longer fear or respect you as their ancestors did.]


    ---


    Author''s Note: Sorry for not posting a Chapter yesterday, I was out and just got back a few hours ago.


    Thought I should release 3 Chapters at the same time :)

 Chapter 160: Villain Simulator, Ch 159

    <h4>Chapter 160: Viin Simtor, Ch 159</h4>


    [After all, there was no longer any force that could threaten them. Your existence seemed to gradually lose its meaning, and even the quality of tributes offered to you became increasingly poor.]


    [Age 510: During one of your patrols, you unexpectedly discovered a "curious" creature. Unlike the monsters you were familiar with, these beings were far more adorable,cking dense fur and rough skin. They wore strange coverings on their bodies. Later, you learned they were called "humans."]


    [They could sing, dance, and make pleasing sounds using bamboo instruments. On their faces, you saw an expression you had never witnessed before¡ªa smile.]


    [You didn''t approach them, choosing instead to observe from a distance. You didn''t want to disrupt their happiness and harmony. After watching for a while, you reluctantly decided to leave.]


    [However, on your way back, you unexpectedly encountered a human child being attacked by monsters. Although you had lost the intimidating presence of your prime, the monsters still dared not act recklessly and quickly fled.]


    [You cleared a path through the tall grass with a gust of wind, and the child seemed to understand your intention. Surprisingly, she didn''t run away in fear of your appearance or power. Instead, she bowed and said a word in hernguage before turning to leave.]


    [You thought your meeting with the human girl was a mere ident. But a few monthster, while patrolling the same area, you discovered that the girl was waiting for you, waving and calling out from a distance.]


    [This time, you didn''t leave. A longing stirred in your heart¡ªa desire to "connect" with her. The monsters feared, respected, and revered you, but they had never epted you. To them, you were merely a lofty protector.]


    [You restrained your power as much as you could, staying several meters away to avoid harming her with the surrounding gusts. Yet, she seemed unbothered.]


    [She offered you food¡ªnot raw meat or fruit, but a cooked dish. For the first time, you tasted something so delicious.]


    [She began teaching you the humannguage. Pointing to herself and then to you, she taught you your first word¡ª"friend."]


    [Age 511: You became secret friends. You would meet at an agreed time, ying, learning, and talking. She even gave you a name¡ªDecarabian, meaning "Wind Sweeping the Grasnds" in hernguage. Her name was Yuni.]


    [Age 513: You learned how to take on a human form, a skill that wasn''t difficult for you. Although Yuni didn''t care about this, she was still thrilled and invited you to her settlement. You declined, knowing that being in a densely popted area could endanger them.]


    [You had never been aware of "time," but now, for the first time, you found it unbearably slow, especially when waiting to meet Yuni.]


    [Age 515: As usual, you met Yuni, but she seemed upset. She told you that her father wanted her to marry a boy from their tribe.]


    [You asked what "marriage" meant, and Yuni exined that it was a bond where two people who loved each other would stay together forever.]


    ["I really like Yuni. Let''s get married!" you blurted out but quickly shook your head. "That''s not possible. Your family wouldn''t agree."]


    ["No, let''s get married!" To your surprise, Yuni''s face lit up with excitement. "We can elope and be together forever."]


    [The innocent girl and the naive god made a lifelong promise under the starry sky on the grasnds. Yuni went back to pack her belongings, and you prepared to bid farewell to your domain.]


    [Returning to the shrine built for you, you found that the monsters now only offered tributes during celebrations. Yet you didn''t mind. Sitting on your throne, you imagined a future filled with happiness.]


    [You weren''t sure how much time passed, but just as you were about to leave for your meeting,motion erupted outside the shrine.]


    [The monsters hadn''t developed a "civilization," but their innate wildness asionally led them to gather and celebrate. A bountiful hunt or a great victory in battle could spark such revelry.]


    [As the shrine doors opened, you intended to announce your departure. Before you could speak, the monsters unexpectedly presented you with tributes for the first time in ages.]


    [The moment you saw the tributes, your heart felt as if it had been shredded by a violent wind. The so-called "offerings" were a group of wounded humans¡ªand Yuni was among them!]


    [She spotted you immediately, and in her eyes, you saw a torrent ofplex emotions.]


    [To you, humans were endearing beings, but to these monsters, they were merely prey¡ªcleverer than most, but prey nheless.]


    [On the very day of your promise, the monsters discovered Yuni''s settlement and attacked it.]


    [You had nevermunicated with the monsters, so you couldn''tmand them to stop attacking humans. You had underestimated their lust for violence. Their ughter wasn''t driven by need, but by bloodthirsty instincts.]


    [These tributes weren''t offered out of reverence. Unlike their elders, these monsters hadn''t witnessed your power or experienced your protection. They saw you merely as a ceremonial fixture.]


    [Seeing Yuni gravely injured, you felt something for the first time¡ªanger. With a flick of your hand, a de of wind instantly shredded the monsters poised to strike.]


    [The once-revered god unleashed their power, bringing not glory but endless ughter.]


    [The monsters couldn''t fathom why you suddenly "went mad," but they took up arms against you. Laughably, after years of concealing your strength, they saw you only as a slightly formidable foe.]


    [When they needed a god, they worshipped you. When they no longer did, they raised their des without hesitation.]


    [The battle was utterly one-sided. As the god of storms, you reimed the authority of the fierce winds, the gulf between mortals and gods as vast as earth and sky.]


    [You watched as the once-small encampment you had seen grow over two centuries was obliterated in less than two hours.]


    [Looking at the corpses of your "subjects," you felt no satisfaction, only emptiness. Returning to the shrine, you found Yuni too gravely injured to speak. You tried to heal her, but your proximity only worsened her wounds.]


    ["I''m sorry..." For the first time in your life, you apologized. Perhaps you were the first god to ever apologize to a mortal. Yet Yuni could no longer hear your voice. You finally understood how fragile human life could be.]


    [Age 540: You resumed wandering, as you had centuries ago. Monsters still worshipped you out of fear, but you paid them no heed.]


    [Age 665: You began to long for the feeling of being worshipped, a desire rooted in your very being. But being revered by these monsters meant nothing. Their faith was born of fear, not sincerity. You longed for subjects worthy of your love, just as you loved them in return.]


    [Age 712: Over the years, you sought to rule various monsters, attempting to be their sovereign. Each attempt ended in failure. Their reverence was no different from that of savages¡ªthey saw you as a powerful figure to rely on, not as one they truly revered.]


    [Age 803: One day, you crossed the borders of your former domain and entered a new territory. Here, you encountered an astonishing sight.]


    [Humans! Many more humans than you had seen before, living in structures built of stone. Their clothing was not made of animal hides but fine, woven fabrics.]


    [You thought to yourself, how wonderful it would be to be worshipped by these humans, to be their god. Almost instinctively, you moved closer, only to be stopped by a figure blocking your path.]


    [It was a man with long ck hair, wielding a spear. You soon realized that he possessed a power strikingly simr to your own¡ªthe power of a god.]


    [Since your birth, your strength as a god had left you unmatched. But for the first time, this man made you feel a sense of oppression.]


    ["I am Morax, guardian of Liyue. State your purpose," the man said, his voice deep andmanding. You told him of your desire to be a god worshipped in Liyue.]


    [Morax shook his head and said, "Thisnd does not need a second god. Please leave."]


    [But with your dream so close, how could you give up? You attacked him, summoning your fierce wind des to strike.]


    [Your wind des, which had never met an obstacle they couldn''t cut through, were effortlessly deflected by two stone pirs Morax conjured. The pirs bore only the faintest scratches.]


    [The mighty winds you so prided yourself on were as feeble as a breeze against Morax''s stone walls.]


    [With just one exchange, you realized the gulf between you and Morax. You expected him to retaliate, perhaps even kill you. After all, you had always lived in a world where the weak were prey to the strong.]


    [But Morax did not strike. He simply said calmly, "You are no match for me. Please leave. It is not my desire, but I cannot allow my people to face any threat."]


    ["Your people?" A twinge of envy arose in your heart. You didn''t flee but instead asked, "What must I do to be like you, to be a god worshipped by humans?"]


    ---


    Extra Chapter

 Chapter 161: Villain Simulator, Ch 160

    <h4>Chapter 161: Viin Simtor, Ch 160</h4>


    ["I have never demanded their faith," Morax said impassively. "I only protect and assist them. By the time I realized it, they already regarded me as a god. Even I cannotpel humans to believe in me."]


    [Your mind cleared as if a veil had been lifted. You nodded toward Morax. "Thank you for your guidance. I am Decarabian, the God of Storms. One day, I too will have a nation and people of my own. As a token of my gratitude, I promise never to trespass upon yournds."]


    [You returned to Mondstadt, your homnd. In this vast territory were countless refugees. The name "God of Storms" spread among them through whispers.]


    [Confronted by your immense power, they were naturally fearful. But you remembered Morax''s teachings. You did not force them to bow to you. Instead, you showed your goodwill through action.]


    [Age 842: You dispersed the endless snowstorms with gusts of wind, helping human tribes establish their settlements.]


    [Age 875: You aided the humans in defeating the monsters that attacked them. This time, they did not flee in fear but expressed their gratitude¡ªmeager though it was, it marked a promising beginning.]


    [Age 923: Through years of effort, you gained many followers in Mondstadt. Yet, it was not the time to ascend as a true god. Another powerful force was stirring. You knew that a confrontation with this power was inevitable.]


    [Age 936: The humans who revered you prepared a gift. Unlike the simplistic monsters, their offering was not food or treasures but a tower befitting your stature.]


    [Standing atop the tower, you gazed down upon thend. Your followers showed you genuine respect¡ªthis, you could feel. Their faith bolstered your strength, ever-growing due to their belief (activated talent: Majestic Aura).]


    [Age 948: At that time, across Teyvat, gods were emerging in abundance. They stood at the pinnacle of power. Even the weakest god wielded strength not to be underestimated.]


    [Gods seemed innately drawn to conflict. Perhaps due to higher forces at y, wars among gods were unceasing. Teyvat was divided into seven regions, with only one god in each area qualifying to ascend as a true deity after triumphing over their rivals.]


    [Age 960: Compared to other regions, Mondstadt''s conflicts among gods were rtively mild. This was because only two mighty gods resided in the region: you, Decarabian, and another known as Andrius, the "King of the North Wind."]


    [Like you, Andrius had won the allegiance of some Mondstadt inhabitants. But a single region could not amodate two leaders. Your inevitable battle began on an unremarkable day.]


    [Unlike your humanoid form, Andrius appeared as an enormous white wolf. For reasons unknown, his gaze toward you burned with hatred. Then it dawned on you: he was the cub whose mother you had in long ago.]


    [It was as if fate had orchestrated it. The wolf pup that once howled in the snow had grown into a formidable god. Your battle was not merely fueled by vengeance. Among gods, there was no reconciliation¡ªonly a fight to the death.]


    [Age 1000: Andrius challenged you, the "Lord of the Tower." Your battlested forty years, not because your powers were evenly matched¡ªhis ws and fangs couldn''t harm you, and his frost and snow were effortlessly scattered by your tempestuous winds.]


    [After each victory, you let him leave. To him, this was an insult from your arrogance. Yet, you saw him as the only god in Mondstadt who stood on equal footing with you. His presence made you feel less alone in the world.]


    [However, all wars must end. In your final battle, Andrius''s pride shattered. Defeated and despondent, he begged you for an honorable death. Instead, you threw him from your tower.]


    [For the King of the North Wind, this was the greatest humiliation. He fled like a broken creature. With his departure, you became the uncontested ruler of Mondstadt.]


    [Age 1031: Leading your people, you expanded your territory. Each time thend grew, you extended your tower higher, so you could oversee your realm and all its inhabitants.]


    [The dream you once held had finallye true. Following Morax''s teachings, you earned the love and respect of your people.]


    [Age 1162: Unlike monsters, humans established their own civilization after building cities. Their respect for you did not diminish with their growth. Through the power of legacy, your believers only increased.]


    [Age 1232: The expansion of your territory reached its limit. Mondstadt''s harsh environment, with its icy and snow-coverednds, was unsuitable for human survival. Worse still, cold winds continually harassed your city.]


    [You loved your people deeply and believed they loved you in return. To shield them from the cold, you used your power to create a storm barrier around the city.]


    [The barrier kept the cold and suffering at bay, though it gradually drained your strength. Yet, for the sake of your beloved people, you deemed it worth the cost.]


    [Age 1280: The wind des surrounding you grew stronger as your power increased, making it impossible for mortals to approach. To bridge this gap, you selected three individuals strong enough to endure the wind and entrusted them with meeting you every ten years to report on the kingdom''s affairs.]


    [Over time, these three individuals established three great families, tasked with governing the nation in your stead.]


    [Age 1290: During one such meeting, your subjects made a request: "Oh great king, we are grateful for all you have given us. But your winds are too fierce¡ªcan you lessen them slightly?"]


    [Unable to weaken the winds around you, you constructed three radiant rings around the tower to reduce their strength. You entrusted the activation of these rings to the three families, ensuring your winds would never harm your people.]


    [Age 1342: The radiant rings lessened the intensity of your winds, but in doing so, you became a true solitary king, dwelling alone atop your tower.]


    [Once every ten years, you spoke with the leaders of the three families. For the rest of the time, you watched over your people from afar.]


    [As their faith grew, so did your power. But the stronger your winds became, the further they drove you from the humans you cherished.]


    [You consoled yourself, believing that as long as they held you in their hearts, you were not truly alone.]


    [Despite your istion, you remained diligent in governance. With your keen sight, no subject escaped your gaze. You assigned them roles suited to their strengths, ensuring the city ran optimally.]


    [Those with strength becameborers, the meticulous became artisans, the brave defended the borders, and the diligent herded livestock. Your choices were wless, creating a utopia shielded from the icy wastnds outside.]


    [Your greatest joy was gazing upon your kingdom from the tower, seeing your people bow to express their love and respect. It gave you a profound sense of aplishment.]


    [Age 1370: The Gunnhildr family appointed a new leader. During a summons, this young individual disyed extraordinary poise. To your surprise, your winds did not affect him.]


    [He bore a Vision of Anemo, a mystical artifact that granted him elemental power and resistance to your storms.]


    [You wished to keep him by your side to ease your loneliness. But as a family leader, he had pressing duties.]


    [For the first time, you made an "excessive" demand: every decade, you required one person attuned to wind to spend ten years with you in the tower.]


    [What you thought was a simple request sparked disputes. "Forgive us, great lord of winds," your subjects said, "but your demand is too harsh. For us, losing ten years of freedom is unbearable."]


    [Their refusal enraged you. You had provided them safety and prosperity, yet they balked at such a small price.]


    [In the end, they relented, selecting a candidate via vote. Watching from your tower, you noted the chosen individual did not seem pleased.]


    [Why? you wondered. Did they not love you? Why were they willing to worship you from afar but unwilling to serve you closely?]


    [Regardless, you were no longer alone. The chosen one was a young bard. Knowing your people intimately, you provided him with fine wine and exquisite instruments to make him happy.]


    [The bard sang, his melodies filled with fantastical tales. Though his songs delighted you, his face remained somber. When you asked why, he replied, "Oh great lord of winds, it is my honor to sing for you. But unlike you, I am no god. These ten years will cost me the best part of my life."]


    [His words resonated. You promised him a gift topensate for his time, and with this, his smile returned. Together, you drank, sang, and talked, and for the first time in ages, you felt less alone.]


    ----


    Author''s Note: This simtion is also quite epic, you''ll love it. Especially the ending.


    Btw, I''ve started cooking up some Fontaine stuff, although it won''t be released anytime soon as I need to make sure it fits the story perfectly, I''ve also seen clips of our new grandma in Genshin and she''s damn cute. I''m going to start ying again next month, so I''ll do something about her and the new redhead mommy as well.


    With that said, its powerstone resets so I''ll give you simple goal for today: 200 p.s for extra Chapter :)


    Be quick!

 Chapter 162: Villain Simulator, Ch 161

    <h4>Chapter 162: Viin Simtor, Ch 161</h4>


    [Age 1380: For some, ten years is but a fleeting moment, especially when spent in joy. The bard reminded you that the ten-year agreement hade to an end. It was then that you realized the years had passed only for him; his body now bore the wear of age.]


    [True to your promise, you offered him a generous gift. From your treasury, you retrieved a bottle of rare divine wine and bade the bard to drink it.]


    [After ten years of camaraderie, the bard trusted you deeply. Without hesitation, he drank the wine and was astonished to find his body restored to the youthfulness of a decade prior.]


    [You exined that the wine had the power to grant eternal youth, returning him to his younger self. Ovee with gratitude, the bard yed onest melody for you before leaving the tower.]


    [The bard''s extraordinary fortune shocked everyone. What was once thought to be a ten-year imprisonment with the Lord of Tempests turned out to be a path to unparalleled reward.]


    [Thus began the second round of selection. Unlike before, this time everyone hoped to be chosen.]


    [To ensure fairness, the process was changed from voting to drawing lots. Only one lucky individual would earn the privilege of serving the solitary king in the tower.]


    [The second chosen one was a young knight. Unlike the bard, the knight had no interest in wine orforts. In contrast to the lively bard, the knight was stoic and silent, like a stone. His only wish was for you to hone his skills so he could be a protector of his homnd.]


    [You agreed to the knight''s request. Though you had never formally studied martial arts, centuries of battle had forged you into an unparalleled warrior.]


    [You had to carefully restrain your strength during practice to avoid harming the knight. While he couldn''t bring you the joy of music, your sparring sessions became an engaging way to pass the time.]


    [Age 1381: The knight couldn''t even graze your robes. Against you, he was as powerless as a child.]


    [Age 1385: The knight began to perceive your movements, but striking you was still an unattainable goal.]


    [Age 1388: The knight progressed rapidly and unknowingly became one of the finest warriors of his era. However, because you were his only opponent, he had no sense of his own strength.]


    [Age 1390: At the end of the ten years, the knight issued one final challenge. This time, his assault left no room for retreat, forcing you to take him seriously.]


    [Atst, his de grazed the edge of your garment. But he paid a steep price¡ªthe protective winds around you instinctively activated, and their violent force left him gravely injured.]


    [As with the bard, you granted the knight a fitting reward. You administered a divine medicine that miraculously healed his wounds.]


    [You exined that the medicine granted him extraordinary regenerative abilities, ensuring he would remain undefeated in battle.]


    [The knight, ted, expressed his gratitude before departing the tower.]


    [Everything unfolded as you had hoped: they alleviated your solitude, and you bestowed upon them your blessings. Was this not the ideal rtionship between a monarch and their subjects?]


    [To you, humans were endlessly fascinating. Both the bard and the knight brought you joy, and you eagerly anticipated what kind of person the third servant would be.]


    [The bard had gained eternal youth, and the knight an indestructible body. The prospect of receiving such blessings drove the people of Mondstadt to vie for the chance to serve.]


    [This time, the chosen one was a timid young girl.]


    [She wasn''t a citizen of Mondstadt but a refugee from beyond the storm barrier. To the impoverished wanderers in the snowbound world outside, the Lord of Tempests'' realm was a paradise.]


    [asionally, refugees would make it into Mondstadt. Although they couldn''t gain citizenship and were relegated to very, even that was preferable to perishing in the frozen wastes.]


    [As a ve, the girl wouldn''t have been eligible for the lottery. However, she possessed a Vision attuned to the Anemo element, which allowed her to enter the storm barrier.]


    [All Vision holders were permitted to participate, and none dared cheat under the gaze of the God of Storms.]


    [Thus, the girl was sent to your tower. Watching the dirty little child cowering behind a pir, you couldn''t help but feel exasperated.]


    [The bard had brought you songs, the knight had providedbat, but what could this stammering, timid girl offer?]


    [You decided to let it be. Ten years would pass quickly enough. After a long silence, you finally spoke: "Go take a bath, little flea."]


    [Like a tarnished piece of copper restored by polish, the girl emerged from her bath transformed. To your surprise, she looked oddly familiar.]


    [You suddenly recalled the girl named Yuni from your past, when you had once been revered by monsters. Your memory, so vivid, felt more like a curse than a gift. Unlike humans, who could forget pain with time, you could never escape the tragedy of Yuni, even after a millennium.]


    [The girl didn''t speak Mondstadt''snguage. As a ve, she only knew the name others had given her: "Amos." In Old Mondstadt, it meant "the unwanted one," reflecting her status.]


    [An idea formed in your mind¡ªa way to pass the time. You decided to raise Amos. The process might not be thrilling, but it would at least upy you for a while.]


    [To put her at ease, you assumed a human form once again. You began teaching her thenguage, how to eat with utensils, and that she couldn''t change clothes in your presence.]


    [Age 1391: Amos learned quickly. In just a year, she had mastered the Mondstadtnguage¡ªa feat far beyond what you had achieved in your youth.]


    [Often, the vast tower would echo with the sight of a barefoot girl trailing behind you like a duckling, as though afraid you might abandon her.]


    [Age 1392: Amos obeyed you in everything but one matter¡ªshe refused to wear shoes. She exined that the soft soles reminded her of the icy snow beyond the barrier.]


    [You didn''t force her to wear shoes, but a spotless girl couldn''t have filthy feet. Every day, you used the winds to clean the tower thoroughly, ensuring her feet remained pristine.]


    [Age 1393: Amos expressed interest in archery, wishing to be a hunter like her father. You indulged her, providing a bow and teaching her the craft. You even built a hunting range within the tower for her to practice.]


    [Amos''s talent exceeded your expectations. Her only shoring was herck of strength. While her arrows couldn''t pierce a boar''s tough hide, they effortlessly struck its vulnerable eyes.]


    [Age 1395: You inquired about Amos''s past, including her parents. The answer was unsurprising¡ªher mother had died in childbirth, and her father had been killed protecting her from monsters.]


    ["If you like, you may call me father," you generously offered. "But only within the tower."]


    [To your surprise, Amos refused, blushing furiously as she shook her head.]


    ["Fine, fine, you don''t have to," you said, stopping her before she shook her head into mush. "But why not? Don''t you want a father?"]


    ["I don''t want to be Decarabian''s daughter," Amos replied earnestly. "I want to be your wife!"]


    ["How dare you be so impudent?" you roared in anger. "How many times have I told you not to call me by name?"]


    [Amos had often addressed you directly, showing no reverence for your divine status. This was intolerable, yet you felt powerless to correct her. She was too fragile to withstand punishment and too sensitive to endure scolding.]


    [As usual, you warned her not to use your name. But as the words left your mouth, you realized her statement contained a more startling revtion.]


    ["You want to be my wife?" you asked with augh. "Impossible. You''re human, and I am a god. Gods and mortals cannot love¡ªthat is the rule."]


    ["Why?" Amos''s innocent eyes brimmed with confusion. "Aren''t you the one who makes the rules?"]


    [Her retort left you momentarily speechless. She was right¡ªyou were a god, capable of shaping the rules. Moreover, you had once loved a human yourself.]


    [But the tragic fate of Yuni made you wary of loving mortals again. So, you casually replied, "If the dayes when you can shoot an arrow that strikes me, I will marry you."]


    [It was a promise without consequence. The gap between gods and mortals could never be bridged. Your protective winds would deflect anything¡ªa longbow''s arrow or a catapult''s boulder alike.]


    ---


    Author''s Note: Next extra chap: 400 p.s


    Be quick if you want more extra Chapters today! :)

 Chapter 163: Villain Simulator, Ch 162

    <h4>Chapter 163: Viin Simtor, Ch 162</h4>


    [But Amos paid no mind. From that day, the tower had a yful huntress roaming its halls. She was always barefoot, appearing unexpectedly to ambush you with her bow.]


    [Age 1396: At the dining table, she would suddenly set down her fork, pull out a short bow, and fire an arrow at you. Each morning, you awoke to find shattered arrows scattered around your bed.]


    [The most audacious attempt urred when, while you were using the restroom, she appeared with a loaded crossbow. You had to admit¡ªit was a perfect ambush opportunity. Legends from a distant world told of a mighty lord felled by his own son in such a ce.]


    [Yet Amos failed. Her powerful crossbow could pierce walls, but it could not prate the winds that shielded you.]


    ["Failed again!" Amos threw down the crossbow in frustration. "You''re a god¡ªI''ll never hit you. It''s so unfair!"]


    ["Don''t be upset," you consoled her gently. "How about we visit the hunting grounds and shoot some ravens? Afterward, we can enjoy a bowl of hot sweet soup."]


    ["Okay!" The child''s mood shifted instantly. She leapt into your arms, eximing, "Decarabian is the best!"


    ["I''ve told you not to call me by name," you sighed. "And could you leave? This is the God of Storms''... restroom."]


    ---


    [Age 1397: Amos abandoned her attempts to ambush you. You thought perhaps she had forgotten the promise, which was a relief. After all, gods and mortals were never meant to havesting ties.]


    [You had already decided on her parting gift. When she left, you would grant her Mondstadt citizenship and treasures enough tost three lifetimes.]


    ---


    [Age 1398: One day, you entered your bath as usual. Though you, as a god, had no need to cleanse your body, you had grown fond of bathing while caring for Amos. The warmth wasforting.]


    [But this time, as you entered the bath, a startled scream rang out, followed by a bar of soap striking you and driving you out.]


    [You weren''t angry, just puzzled by Amos''s reaction. However, that fleeting glimpse made you realize she was no longer the frail little girl who resembled a reed.]


    [Fine food and years of archery training had sculpted her body into one of strength and grace. As the God of Storms, you were no stranger to the human form, but Amos''s figure stirred something unfamiliar deep within you.]


    [You pondered this feeling, lost in thought untilte at night, when a soft knock came at your door.]


    [Entering Immersive Mode]


    This time, Lucas felt different. Unlike his usual roles, which were rarely more powerful than his real self, he now embodied Decarabian, the Lord of the Tower and former ruler of Old Mondstadt.


    ncing in the mirror, he saw a sculpted figure, akin to a Greek statue¡ªa reflection of the Tempest Lord''s vanity, expressed in his perfected human form.


    "Enter," he said.


    At hismand, Amos pushed the door open. In the tower, no one but her could knock on the Solitary King''s door.


    The girl wore only a modest short robe. Unlike her usual lively self, she now resembled a timid deer, her face flushed red.


    "About earlier... I''m sorry," Amos said, bowing her head. "I shouldn''t have driven the Lord of Tempests out."


    Lucas was taken aback. It had been a long time since Amos used a formal title for him.


    "It''s fine. Gods are forgiving," Lucas replied with a smile. "Besides, human women don''t usually reveal themselves before others."


    "But the Lord of Tempests... isn''t ''others,''" Amos murmured as she rested her head on hisp. "Can I stay with you tonight?"


    "I''ll grant your request," Lucas said, ruffling her hair. "But if you grind your teeth in your sleep, I''ll throw you out."


    "I don''t mean like before, just sleeping together," Amos said seriously, shaking her head. "I mean, I want to sleep with the Lord of Tempests... like an adult."


    As the Solitary King, you naturally understood what Amos meant. Her request was strange, but not iprehensible.


    "That''s something only married couples should do," you said, frowning slightly.


    "I''ve thought it through," Amos replied, as if justifying herself. "To love someone doesn''t always mean marrying them. I love the Lord of Tempests, I love Decarabian. Do you... love me too?"


    "Of course I love you," you answered without hesitation.


    It wasn''t a lie. You loved Amos as you loved all your people.


    "Really?" Amos''s face lit up with happiness. She hugged you tightly, whispering, "Tonight, can I call you by name?"


    "You may," you replied generously.


    That night, Amos repeatedly called your name, as if defying the reverence owed to a god.


    The violent winds became gentle breezes, flowing through Amos''s body and caressing every part of her being. And for the first time, the Solitary King of the Tower understood another form of love¡ªone that reached the very depths of his existence.


    [Acquired talent: Amos'' Devotion]


    [Effect: Mastery of all bow and crossbow weaponry, with a 20% increase in damage. ]


    ---


    [Entering Text Mode]


    [After that night, your rtionship with Amos shifted subtly. She seemed softer, more affectionate. Your demeanor, however, remained unchanged.]


    [You were not human and did not grasp the societal implications of your shared intimacy. To you, it was simply a pleasant way to pass the time.]


    [Thus, Amos''spanionship became routine. Her youthful body radiated hope and vitality, eagerly embracing the love of the Solitary King. Watching her curl up like a kitten in your arms, you felt something you had never known before.]


    [You didn''t dream, but Amos often shared her dreams with you: "I dreamed of waves and sand, of verdant forests and open ins, of boars ying in berry bushes, of towering spires."]


    [Humans were fascinating creatures, dreaming of things they had never seen. You longed to explore those dreamscapes with her, but as the Lord of Tempests, you were bound to the tower.]


    [Incidentally, you once considered keeping a cat. But all living things instinctively avoided you, and the bard had been severely allergic to them.]


    ---


    [Age 1399: Happy times always pass too quickly. One day, you realized Amos''s ten-year term was nearly over. By this time next year, you would have to send her away.]


    [For the first time, you felt a pang of "reluctance." You were dismayed to discover you might truly love Amos¡ªnot with the impartial love of a god for mortals, but with a selfish love. You wanted her to stay, to always be by your side.]


    [At that very moment, a higher power summoned you into a void. In the darkness, a human-like silhouette hovered above, gazing down at you.]


    ["Who are you?" you demanded, feeling a rare sense of threat. Thest time you felt this was before the mighty Morax.]


    ["The Sustainer of Heavenly Principles," the figure intoned, their voice deep and hollow. "I have summoned you to bestow upon you the authority of a true god. But heed this warning: to love a mortal will bring irreparable disaster. Do not forget this."]


    [The warning ended, and you were abruptly returned to reality. At first, you thought it was a dream, but the "Gnosis," shaped like a chess piece in your palm, proved it had been real.]


    [The Sustainer''s power transcended that of gods and Archons. Though you could rebel, you dared not risk your people''s safety¡ªor Amos''.]


    ---


    [Age 1400: Finally, the day of parting arrived. For a month leading up to it, Amos was visibly downcast. When the time came to give her a gift, she spoke first: "Lord Decarabian, may I choose what I want?"]


    [Silently, you nodded. She dered her wish: "I want to stay. That''s all I ask."]


    [You longed to grant her request, but the Sustainer''s voice echoed in your mind. Shaking your head, you replied, "Anything but that."]


    ["Why?" Amos cried. "Don''t you love me?"]


    ---


    Author''s Note: Sigh foolish mortal


    Anyways next Chapter at 600 p.s, if we hit it today that is.

 Chapter 164: Villain Simulator, Ch 163

    <h4>Chapter 164: Viin Simtor, Ch 163</h4>


    ["I love you, just as I love all my people," your voice, as sharp as the biting wind, proimed. "No one can monopolize the love of a god¡ªnot even you."]


    [You saw Amos'' tears. She rarely cried, but now her face was expressionless as she said, "In that case, please give me your most cherished bow."]


    [The bow was a true artifact, imbued with divine power and bonded to its wielder. You formally passed it on to Amos and gave it a new name¡ªAmos'' Bow.]


    ["It is yours now," you said. "With this bow, you can pierce any prey in the world."]


    ["But I only wish to use it to pierce your heart," Amos said sorrowfully. "I want to know... if you even have one."]


    [You watched silently as Amos departed. This time, you chose not to summon another to your tower. The intimacy between gods and mortals brought fleeting joy but leftsting pain.]


    [When you announced that no more humans would be sent to the tower, discontent rippled through your subjects. After all, previous chosen ones had gained eternal youth, indestructible bodies, and priceless treasures.]


    [They used you of selfishness, believing you no longer wished to share your divine gifts. But your overwhelming power kept them from openly rebelling.]


    [What you overlooked, however, was that while eternal youth and unyielding flesh could not be taken, the artifact Amos'' Bow stirred envy in many. One day, the eldest son of the Gunnhildr family, emboldened by his status, attempted to seize the bow from Amos.]


    [Amos cherished the bow and would never relinquish it willingly. In the ensuing struggle, she loosed an arrow, and the bow''s immense power instantly pierced the young man''s chest, killing him on the spot.]


    [Yourws did not permit execution. The harshest punishment was exile¡ªcasting criminals beyond the storm barrier. But exile from the warmth and safety of your realm was tantamount to a death sentence.]


    [Formitting murder, Amos was exiled. By the time you learned of it, she was already gone, her whereabouts unknown.]


    [Enraged, you punished the Gunnhildr family, despite objections from many. Resolute, you stripped the entire family of their status, banishing them from your realm as exiles.]


    [Your heavy-handed decree fueled widespread discontent. The people called you a tyrant,posing songs mocking you. Some even dered they were tired of their lives being dictated and sought freedom beyond the storm barrier.]


    [But you would not allow such defiance. For centuries, you had ruled this nation alone, ensuring everything functioned with perfect order.]


    [To prevent escapes, you fortified the storm barrier. To silence their insults, you summoned fierce winds to bow their heads.]


    [You believed wounds must be excised to heal. To eradicate dissent, you imposed iron-fisted policies, sentencing all who defied you to death.]


    [The defiant were shredded by your winds, their bodies left for ravens and vultures as a warning. For lesser crimes, punishments were no less severe: poets who sang mocking songs lost their voices to frost, and those who red at you in defiance had their eyes torn by the wind.]


    [Atst, your nation returned to its former tranquility. No voices of dissent remained, only bowed heads offering respect and fear.]


    [Age 1403: On an otherwise ordinary morning, you were awakened by an unexpectedmotion. Outside the tower, countless windblume petals floated in the air. The three rings sealing the tower had been undone!]


    [The exiled Gunnhildr family had returned, uniting with the other two great families in rebellion against you.]


    [Thebined strength of the three families broke the tower''s seals. Yet you felt no fear¡ªonly sorrow. A tragedy from long ago seemed destined to repeat itself. Their foolishness would bring them harsh punishment.]


    [Standing atop your tower as always, you awaited their attack. Part of you was curious how they intended to challenge a god.]


    [The rebellion had clearly been carefully nned. Even Andrius, the defeated Wolf King of the North Wind, had joined their cause. You sneered. He was no match for you. But then, you saw others among their ranks¡ªand disbelief gripped you.]


    [There they stood: the bard, the knight, and... Amos.]


    ["Why do you betray me?" you demanded, your voice filled with pain. "Why repay kindness with treachery?"]


    [The bard, still as youthful as the day he left, answered sorrowfully: "I curse the gift you gave me. I am forced to watch everyone I love fade away, leaving me in eternal solitude."]


    [The knight, now even more imposing than before, dered: "I curse this unyielding body. I can no longer feel the thrill of battle¡ªno one will fight me, for I cannot be defeated."]


    [Amos, however, offered only a few words: "I curse the hope you gave me¡ªhope that was never meant to be fulfilled."]


    [A small, shapeless wind spirit apanied them, watching cautiously from the shadows.]


    [The battle began. The blessings you once bestowed upon them now turned into weapons against you. The bard''s agile movements made him difficult to catch. The knight''s indestructible body withstood your tempests. And Amos''s arrows now possessed the power to prate your winds.]


    [Of course, Andrius remained the primary force among your opponents. While his strength was no match for yours, thebined efforts of the others created an unexpected stalemate.]


    [It was not because their strength rivaled yours. In truth, their attacks struggled to break through your protective winds. The stalemate arose because you hesitated, afraid to harm Amos.]


    [Though her Vision reduced the winds'' effects on her, the full force of your protective gales could still cut her down.]


    [During a brief pause in the battle, the wind spirit whispered something to Amos. After a moment of silence, she dropped Amos'' Bow and charged directly at you.]


    [You had refrained from harming her because she kept her distance as an archer. But if she drew near, your ferocious winds would surely tear her apart.]


    [Without thinking, you weakened your winds as she approached. Yet even so, the sharp gales tore into her fragile mortal body, leaving her gravely wounded.]


    [Cradling the bleeding Amos in your arms, you called her name over and over. Yet her face showed no pain¡ªonly a faint smile. "I knew it," she murmured weakly. "Your love for me... is different."]


    [She had never truly hated you. She knew these so-called "allies" could not harm you. Her sole purpose ining here was to prove that your love for her was not the same as your love for the others.]


    [Her bloodied arms went limp. Her death was sudden and overwhelming. And in your grief, the protective winds around you vanished.]


    [Your enemies believed Amos'' sacrifice would give them an opening to strike. They were wrong. What awaited them was the wrath of the Lord of Tempests.]


    [The battle was over in an instant¡ªso swift that its details need not be described.]


    [The tempest you unleashed from the tower''s peak reduced half of the rebel forces to dust in moments.]


    [Standing atop the tower, you crushed the remaining rebels underfoot. Your voice thundered across thend: "You call me a tyrant... then I shall grant your wish."]


    [You spared your enemies, not out of mercy, but to prolong their suffering.]


    [The bard was imprisoned in the tower''s deepest dungeon, deprived of sunlight and wine.]


    [The knight was chained to the tower''s highest spire, where relentless winds cut him and the sun scorched him day and night.]


    [As for Andrius, you captured all his offspring and ughtered them one by one before his eyes. You had given the defeated Wolf King many chances in the past, and he had squandered them all.]


    ---


    Author''s Note: Well we did not reach 600, so no extra Chapter for you!

 Chapter 165: Villain Simulator, Ch 164

    <h4>Chapter 165: Viin Simtor, Ch 164</h4>


    [But you knew the true culprit behind Amos'' death wasn''t herrades. It was that sly, scheming wind spirit.]


    [After the battle, the fragment of wind sought to flee immediately. But how could such a feeble being escape the grasp of the Storm God?]


    [You caught it effortlessly, and it spilled everything¡ªthe full chain of events leading to the rebellion.]


    [Andrius, the bard, the knight, Amos, and even the exiled Gunnhildr family had all been influenced, manipted by the deceitful whispers of this tiny wind spirit.]


    [It had railed against your "tyranny," convincing your people that you hoarded treasures in your vaults and urging them to rise against you in the name of "freedom."]


    [The wind spirit''s lies had driven the bard and knight¡ªonce beneficiaries of your gifts¡ªto me all their suffering on you.]


    [You hadn''t anticipated that the chaos stemmed from something as insignificant as a wisp of elemental wind. Even as ity in your grasp, the spirit brazenly pleaded for mercy, its voice slick and familiar.]


    [It was so weak you didn''t know how to punish it. A mere squeeze could reduce it to nothing more than a trace of dust on the breeze.]


    [Yet as you deliberated, the spirit transformed into a human form.]


    ["Forgive my ignorance!" its voice rang out, unsettlingly familiar. "Amos'' death doesn''t matter¡ªI can take her ce and serve you. Just spare my life!"]


    [Yes, the cunning wind spirit had taken Amos'' appearance, hoping to use her visage to save itself.]


    [In its twisted logic, it thought you loved only Amos'' physical form. Surely, if it looked like her, you might grant it forgiveness.]


    [But its ruse only fanned the mes of your anger.]


    [From your treasury, you retrieved the Holy Water of Binding and doused the spirit, sealing it in the human shape it had so brazenly adopted.]


    ["You like being human? Then stay that way forever," you snarled. "Foolish spirit, you will pay dearly for your insolence!"]


    [You named it Barbatos, a fitting name for a jester.]


    [Amos'' true body was enshrined in a crystal coffin and ced in the hunting grounds she had loved. Barbatos, on the other hand, became the target of your wrath. Only her suffering brought you the faintest relief.]


    [Her face, identical to Amos'', did not evoke pity¡ªinstead, it magnified your fury. Compared to her torment, the punishments of the bard and the knight were trivial, akin to a pleasant afternoon tea.]


    [Your vendetta extended far beyond the rebels. Their ability to breach the tower stemmed from the betrayal of your people¡ªyour beloved subjects.]


    [You were sad to discover that inflicting pain was the only way to momentarily forget your grief.]


    [At first, Barbatos wept and begged for mercy. But over time, she became numb. Even when her spirit seemed as lifeless as a corpse, you refused to relent.]


    [Once, whileshing her with a steel whip, she did something that stunned you¡ªsheughed.]


    ["Why are youughing?" you asked, bewildered. "Don''t you feel pain?"]


    ["Pain? Of course, I feel it," Barbatos replied calmly. "But if I''m going to suffer regardless, why shouldn''t Iugh? You can imprison my body, but my mind roams free. My spirit dances on open ins."]


    [Her words stirred a memory of Amos'' dreams¡ªdreams of waves and sand, forests and fields, boars ying among berries, and towering spires.]


    [A new idea took root: you would see those ces in Amos'' stead, visiting the sights she had only glimpsed in dreams.]


    [But the Teyvat of that era was and ravaged by war, with gods battling for supremacy. To reach unknownnds, you had no choice but to join the fray.]


    [Though there were no explicit rules, an unspoken agreement among the gods kept them from encroaching on each other''s domains. To achieve your goal, you needed to hone your forces.]


    [Age 1423: Two decades after the rebellion, your nation had regained its prosperity. No one dared question your authority anymore. You realized that what truly secured stability wasn''t respect or love¡ªit was fear.]


    [You began expanding Mondstadt''s borders, using your tempestuous winds to clear the surrounding eternal ice. No longer the isted Solitary King, you established governance, recruited skilled advisors, and formed an elite force loyal to you: The Winds of the World.]


    [Age 1502: The Winds of the World embodied your ambition¡ªto spread your tempest to every corner of the world. You made no effort to hide your intent.]


    [You sought out powerful individuals from across thend to join your cause as leaders within the organization.]


    [You took in <strong>Havria</strong>, the Salt God from Liyue, a gentle and fragile deity who wandered with her followers after being cast out. Seeing echoes of your former self in her, you offered her protection in exchange for eternal servitude. For her own people, Havria did not hesitate to agree to your proposal. She became the Salt of the South Wind, one of your Four Winds.]


    [A young knight raised by Andrius, one of the "Lupical" children chosen by wolves, came to you. She challenged you, hoping to win Andrius''s freedom.]


    [You epted her challenge, though the result was inevitable¡ªshe was no match for the Lord of Tempests.]


    [Instead of killing her, you took her into your service and gifted her the ymore Wolf''s Gravestone. In time, she became the Wolf of the North Wind, a loyal guardian of Mondstadt.]


    [Among the three families that betrayed you, the Gunnhildr family was annihted, and the Imuukr family was exiled to the eternal snows. Only the Lawrence family remained, hoping to atone for their sins.]


    [The current head of the Lawrence family, a brilliant and erudite woman, volunteered to serve as your advisor. After rigorous testing, you epted her, naming her the Wisdom of the West Wind.]


    [Age 1534: As your kingdom expanded, you encountered a young and powerful elemental creature. Had it been born a millennium earlier, it might have posed a threat to you.]


    [But with only the North Wind and South Wind, you subdued the creature. You named it Dvalin and made it the Dragon of the East Wind.]


    [With the Four Winds of the World established, your forces yed a pivotal role in your conquests.]


    [Age 1645: With the help of the Winds of the World, your influence spread across Mondstadt. Your ever-growing tower reached new heights, as if to grant you a view of every corner of the earth.]


    [Surely, by then, Amos'' spirit would finally find peace.]


    [Age 1871: Under your and the Four Winds'' leadership, Mondstadt flourished. You founded numerous city-states to amodate its booming poption.]


    [The Four Winds offered valuable advice, including abandoning rigid societal roles and letting citizens choose paths suited to their abilities.]


    [Though feared for your ruthlessness, you were not foolish. Useful suggestions were always heeded, even from former foes.]


    [Yet there was one you could never forgive: Barbatos. After centuries of torment, you found it increasingly difficult to invent new punishments for the cunning wind spirit.]


    [She had even grown to relish the pain, finding physical suffering preferable to the crushing loneliness of her dark prison. For Barbatos, a lover of freedom, her confinement was the harshest punishment of all.]


    ["Is that all you''ve got?" she taunted during one of your sessions. "Your punishments are so dull they nearly put me to sleep."]


    [You couldn''t help but admire the spirit''s resilience. For all her weakness, she remained utterly defiant.]


    [You sought counsel from your advisors on how to punish her further.]


    ["My lord," Wisdom of the West Wind bowed and suggested with a sly smile, "from my observations, she cannot resist fine wine. Drinking without her might be the ultimate torment."]


    [Skeptical but intrigued, you decided to test the idea. After all, Mondstadt''s cers were overflowing with wine.]


    [You selected a thousand of the finest vintages and brought them to Barbatos''s prison.]


    ["Ah, my dearest God of Storms!" Barbatos greeted you with her usual slyness, oblivious to your intent. "How shall you torture me today?"]


    ---


    Extra Chapter

 Chapter 166: Villain Simulator, Ch 165

    <h4>Chapter 166: Viin Simtor, Ch 165</h4>


    [You uncorked the bottles of fine wine you had brought, and the rich, intoxicating aroma filled the cell. Barbatos'' expression changed immediately.]


    <strong>[Immersive Mode Activated]</strong>


    Before Lucas appeared a beautiful young woman, her appearance identical to Amos'', though her demeanor and aura were worlds apart.


    "Truly exquisite wine," Lucas remarked, swirling the deep red liquid in his ss with an air of indulgence. "I hear you''re a connoisseur. What do you think of this?"


    Barbatos sniffed greedily, her nose twitching as she murmured, "Mountain grapes of the finest vintage, pressed by a maiden''s delicate feet, left to ferment slowly in oak barrels... A masterpiece!"


    Even from the aroma alone, she could discern such intricate details. Lucas had to admit¡ªBarbatos was indeed an expert.


    Smiling, he downed the ss in one swift motion. "You''re right¡ªit''s truly delicious."


    Saliva trickled from the corner of Barbatos'' mouth as she stared longingly. Her usual yfulness was gone, reced by an almost animalistic desperation. If she had a tail, it would surely have been wagging furiously. "Let me have a sip. No, just a taste¡ªplease!"


    "No. You''ll watch me enjoy it, but you won''t get a single drop." Lucas dered. To his surprise, the strategy suggested by the Wisdom of the West Wind was incredibly effective. The mes of vengeance reignited within him as Barbatos'' expression grew more anguished.


    The precious wine flowed freely as Lucas drank one ss after another, as if it were mere water. Barbatos, unable to do anything but watch, squirmed with visible frustration. Her yearning gaze seemed to pierce through him.


    <i>Hic!</i> Lucas let out a hup after finishing several hundred bottles. Even a god''s tolerance had its limits. A bit unsteady, he approached Barbatos, holding up a ss. "Want some?"


    "Yes! Please, let me have it!" Barbatos pleaded, her voice trembling like that of an addict.


    "Kneel," Lucasmanded coolly.


    Though forcing Barbatos to kneel had never been difficult, she had never willingly done so. Yet this time, she dropped to her knees without hesitation. "Just one sip! I''m begging you!"


    Lucas smirked and tipped the ss slightly, letting a single drop of wine fall onto the tip of his shoe.


    "Go on, if you want it so badly. Lick it clean," he sneered, raising his foot. "If you''re too slow, it''ll dry up."


    Barbatos had endured countless days in utter darkness, numb to her suffering because she had long since abandoned hope. But the aroma of the wine symbolized something more¡ªfreedom, beauty, and joy. It awakened every buried anguish within her.


    Lucas had expected some hesitation. But to his astonishment, Barbatos lifted his shoe with trembling hands, bowing her head reverently as if in worship. She licked the drop clean with a devotion that resembled a pilgrimage.


    For the first time in centuries, her face, usually masked with a false smile, showed genuine happiness.


    Her expression enraged Lucas further. Dropping his smirk, he kicked her away. "You could have been drinking this freely. But no, you just had to cross me."


    "I was wrong! I was wrong!" Barbatos cried, showing no anger or defiance, only desperation. Crawling back toward him, she whispered, "Just a little more... Please. That taste¡ªit was heaven itself."


    Her face, so eerily simr to Amos'', was now flushed and zed with longing. For the first time, Lucas felt an unfamiliar turbulence in his otherwise cid heart.


    Perhaps it was the wine. Or perhaps this cunning wind spirit hadn''t entirely given up on the ruse she''d employed from the start.


    "Clearly, the humiliation hasn''t gone far enough," Lucas muttered, pulling out the his staff. He poured another bottle of wine over its smooth, polished surface, letting the liquid drip down its length.


    Pressing the tip to Barbatos''s cheek, he sneered. "You like wine, don''t you? Drink it."


    It was the ultimate degradation. Yet Barbatos, lost in her yearning, lifted the staff without hesitation, carefully licking away every drop of wine.


    She was so cautious, so precise, terrified of spilling even a single drop, lest Lucas take it away.


    But as she was savoring the fleeting taste, Lucas yanked his staff away. Her face fell instantly, her disappointment almost pitiful.


    "Just one more sip," she begged, her tone groveling. "No matter where you spill the wine¡ªeven if it''s somewhere filthy¡ªI''ll drink it all, I swear!"


    "I''ll let you drink your fill," Lucas said, lifting her chin. His smile wavered slightly. "But not with this face."


    ....


    <strong>After a few hours...</strong>


    Barbatos never got another taste of wine.


    Lucas, as usual, subjected her to his ruthless punishments.


    Among his many methods, impalement was one of the most frequently employed.


    Spears, needles, daggers, red-hot iron spikes, poisoned des¡ªthese tools had pierced Barbatos''s body countless times.


    But this time, the instrument Lucas used to vite her was different. It didn''t cause physical pain but destroyed her in another, more profound way.


    .....


    <strong>After the punishment..</strong>


    Lucas'' drunken haze hadrgely cleared. Reflecting on the ordeal, he realized that although nominally, this was indeed to punish and torture Barbatos, he had enjoyed the process immensely.


    Deep down, he still loved Amos, and his tenderness toward her had always been meticulous. Yet with Barbatos, there were no such reservations. Despite her identical appearance, Lucas could treat her with the utmost cruelty without hesitation.


    For the first time in centuries, Barbatos, who had always masked her torment with smile, shed tears.


    "You''re crying. Finally, you''re crying," Lucas murmured, wiping a tear from her cheek and licking it off his finger. "So even your tears are bitter."


    Although her recent torment was lighter than before, what truly devastated Barbatos was the psychological torment.


    "Wine... just give me some wine..."


    Barbatos stared nkly at the unopened bottles, her only perceived sce now lying in the oblivion of alcohol.


    "Want some wine? Dream on," Lucas sneered.


    With a casual wave, a razor-sharp wind de shattered the bottles, spilling their fragrant contents across the dungeon floor. Barbatos, like a lifeless marite, crawled toward the puddle of wine. But the iron cor around her neck yanked her short, leaving her tongue inches away from the liquid.


    The spilled wine would rot and reek, or be consumed by rats and insects, all within her sight but forever beyond her reach.


    Lucasughed heartily as he left. It had been centuries since he had felt such a twisted sense of satisfaction.


    ---


    Author''s Note: well...


    Anyway, extra Chapter at 1200 p.s.


    Be quick or I''ll fall asleep and you''ll have to wait until tomorrow ??


    The more you dy in giving stones, the more dyed the extra Chapter will be, its an equivalent exchange, so get back to mining!

 Chapter 167: Villain Simulator, Ch 166

    <h4>Chapter 167: Viin Simtor, Ch 166</h4>


    [Exiting Immersive Mode]


    [Reward: Talent "Aura of the God of Storms."]


    Effect: You can manifest wind elements as an aura to intimidate other beings. The greater the disparity in power between you and your target, the higher the sess rate.


    [From then on, you devised "new methods" to punish Barbatos. Even you were unsure if your actions stemmed more from a desire for vengeance or a darker need for release.]


    [Age 1881:] [At the suggestion of the Wisdom of the West Wind, you entered a formal alliance with the neighboring nation of Liyue.]


    [Though invading Liyue would have been an optimal strategy, the strength of Morax, the God of Contracts, had left a deep impression on you. Moreover, you had once promised never to trespass upon Liyue''snds.]


    [If you couldn''t be enemies, it was best to be allies.]


    [You had assumed that nearly two millennia would have erased Morax''s memory of you, but to your surprise, he not only remembered but expressed astonishment at your rise.]


    [Back then, you were an obscure, wandering god in Mondstadt. Now, your towering stronghold could even glimpse the borders of Liyue.]


    [After some deliberation, Morax agreed to the alliance. Unlike the unified Mondstadt under your rule, Liyue was and teeming with rival gods. Morax''s ability to maintain his dominion amid constant battles spoke volumes about his strength.]


    [During the signing of the pact, an unexpected event urred¡ªa rogue godunched a sudden attack on Liyue Harbor.]


    [You viewed this as an excellent opportunity to witness Morax''s power. Though the rogue god''s strength was unremarkable, even your subordinate, the Salt of the South Wind, could have easily defeated them.]


    [However, Morax didn''t intervene personally. Instead, he dispatched a subordinate¡ªa petite blue-haired girl whose appearance was almostical in contrast to her divine adversary.]


    [At first, you thought Morax was jesting. Yet, to your astonishment, the girl held her own against the god, matching their blows with surprising resilience.]


    [But a god is still a god. Just as the battle reached a stalemate, the rogue god opened its jaws wide and swallowed the girl whole.]


    [You were momentarily rmed, wondering if you should use a wind de to disembowel the god. Before you could act, the god''s eyes rolled back, and it began to convulse violently, clutching its throat. Momentster, it copsed and died.]


    [The blue-haired girl emerged from its mouth, disheveled but unharmed.]


    ["Is this some kind of Liyue sorcery?" you remarked, impressed. "Defeating foes from within their own stomachs¡ªit''s a technique I''ve never seen before."]


    ["It''s not sorcery," Morax replied, his tone as calm as ever. "It simply choked to death on Ganyu."]


    [Though the god''s death was absurdlyedic, there was no denying the girl''s strength. Ganyu''s capabilities were a testament to Morax''s forces, and it was clear he had more warriors of her caliber.]


    [Morax''s message was clear: Liyue''s strength extended far beyond him alone. Any attempt to invade would exact a steep price.]


    [Thus, the alliance between Mondstadt and Liyue was sealed. Morax''s policy for Liyue was simple¡ªnever invade another nation but never permit anyone to trespass on Liyue''s soil. For him, the alliance was wholly advantageous.]


    [Age 2138:] [Mondstadt''s territory had quietly expanded to the coast. However, the burgeoning poption ced increasing pressure on the nation, especially in coastal settlements frequently raided by bandits.]


    [These raiders were not Mondstadt''s own but "Ronin" from the distant ind nation of Inazuma.]


    [These ouws, known as the Wild Vagrants, were former warriors exiled or fleeing punishment in Inazuma. With no ce in their homnd, they turned to piracy, targeting your subjects to survive.]


    [They established hideouts on inds scattered between Mondstadt and Inazuma, gradually consolidating into a significant force.]


    [You sent envoys to Inazuma, requesting they address this issue. However, Inazuma''s Kanjou Commission dismissed them coldly, refusing even to let Mondstadt''s ships dock.]


    [Inazuma''s insolence enraged you. At the time, the ind nation faced internal strife from overpoption and external threats. War was the perfect opportunity to redirect its turmoil, and after centuries of preparation, your Winds of the World had be a formidable force.]


    [You formally issued a deration of war against Inazuma. The Shogunate scoffed at your challenge, confident in her abilities and the natural barrier of the ocean. She deemed any attempt by Mondstadt to match Inazuma''s naval prowess a fool''s errand.]


    [Your first move was to lead your forces to seize the inds housing the Wild Vagrants. Among their ranks were former Inazuman samurai who had served Shogunate. From them, you extracted critical intelligence about Inazuma''s military and geography with ease.]


    [On a day when thick sea fog covered everything, soldiers of the Tenryou Commission conducted their routine patrols along the shore. However, the heavy fog limited their visibility to only a few kilometers at most. When Mondstadt''s fleet emerged from the dense fog, the soldiers realized the gravity of the situation.]


    [The Tenryou Commission was no pushover. They quickly mobilized the navy to counterattack. One had to admit, as a maritime nation, Inazuma''s shipbuilding technology far surpassed Mondstadt''s. Their fleet, with sturdy ships and powerful cannons, was undoubtedly the dominant force on the seas.]


    [Yet, Inazuma seemed to have forgotten¡ªyou are the Archon of Storms, the Lord of Tempests. Over the sea, the most terrifying force is not lightning splitting the heavens but the storm that can raise monstrous waves.]


    [High above, a massive blue dragon soared through the skies. Standing atop the dragon''s spine, youmanded the hurricanes over the sea. The formidable ships, despite their superior craftsmanship, were like bathtub toys amidst the raging ocean.]


    [Their opponents weren''t Mondstadt''s fleet but tornadoes and towering waves. The ferocious whirlwinds, like wild and frenzied dragons, swallowed the entire Inazuman navy, leaving no trace behind¡ªnot even splinters of wood.]


    [Inazuma relied excessively on its naval power, resulting in a weak army onnd. Leading your forces, you swiftly conquered several inds.]


    [It was only then that Inazuma realized the severity of their plight. They were not up against a tyrant who merely built towers but a relentless executioner.]


    [The Shogunate army, in the face of your battle organization, "Winds of the World," crumbled like paper. Their only show of bravery was their ritual suicides when facing certain defeat, seeking a hollow posthumous honor.]


    [Like a storm, you led your forces into the lofty Tenshukaku. Strangely, the ruler of Inazuma, the so-called "Raiden Shogun," a violet-haired woman, exuded no aura of oppression when you confronted her.]


    [As you prepared to act, another woman, identical to her, emerged from behind a screen, de in hand,unching a ferocious assault.]


    [It turned out the "Raiden Shogun" had a twin sister.]


    [Since birth, apart from Morax and a "higher-tiered" being, you had rarely encountered any match. But this shadow warrior, the Raiden General, gave you a rare thrill of battle.]


    [Her swordsmanship was peerless and imbued with the force of thunder. For a time, you were evenly matched. This intense battlested three days and nights, finally concluding with her unparalleled move, "Musou no Hitotachi."]


    [That strike, even you couldn''t fully withstand. Unfortunately, it didn''t kill you. Exhausted from using her full strength, the Raiden Shogun''s shadow ultimately fell in defeat.]


    [Though this campaign exacted a high price, the spoils were plentiful. As the victor, you forced Inazuma to sign a series of unequal treaties.]


    [The twin sisters¡ªRaiden Makoto and Raiden Ei, one skilled in governance, the other inbat¡ªtogether ruled Inazuma. The skilled martial artist Ei served as her elder sister''s shadow warrior.]


    [One use in the unequal treaties demanded that Raiden Makoto be taken to Mondstadt''s high tower as your hostage.]


    [Of course, to maintain the Raiden Shogun''s dignity, you publicly framed it as a divine marriage.]


    [Strangely, the "higher-tiered" being who sought to prevent gods from forming bonds of love made no objection to this union, perhaps indifferent to such human-style agreements.]


    [The choice of the unarmed Makoto over her seemingly more dangerous sister Ei was made upon the advice of the Wisdom of West Wind.]


    [No matter how strong Ei was, she could only enhance her own power. As a defeated opponent, she posed no threat to you.]


    [Makoto, with her cunning, was a far greater risk if left to govern Inazuma.]


    [Who you married didn''t matter to you¡ªafter all, she was merely a hostage, not truly your wife.]


    [Among the other unequal uses, apart from ceding territory, reparations, and annual tributes, the most crucial was Inazuma''s recognition as a subordinate state. This marked the first annexation among the seven nations of Teyvat.]


    [Yet the lofty, higher-tiered being remained silent on this matter.]


    [You brought Raiden Makoto back to Mondstadt and held a grand "wedding." Even if it was merely for show, a divine marriage had to be treated with the utmost importance. All of Mondstadt celebrated for seven days and nights.]


    [Your bridal chamber was atop the high tower. Naturally, a divine marriage didn''t need to follow mortal customs.]


    [You drank heavily, not out of joy from marrying another god, but from the satisfaction of conquering Inazuma, now allowing you to view the waves and sands that Amos longed for.]


    [Raiden Makoto sat silently at the bedside, her expression indifferent, as though the revelry around her had nothing to do with her.]


    ---


    Author''s note: Well done! We''ve already reached 1100, although the extra Chapter was supposed to be released at 1200, I''ll release it earlier just for you :D


    The voting shall not stop if you want more extra Chapters tho! Next one at 1500! You have a lot of time until tomorrow, so make sure we make it :)


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 168: Villain Simulator, Ch 167

    <h4>Chapter 168: Viin Simtor, Ch 167</h4>


    [Entering Immersive Mode]


    Standing before the silent purple-haired beauty, Lucas couldn''t suppress his overwhelming sense of satisfaction.


    Indeed, he had every reason to be proud. After all, he had just aplished two unprecedented feats that might never be replicated.


    The first was conquering Inazuma, and the second¡ªmarrying a deity.


    "Hmph..."


    Lucas let out a cold snort, a faintly intoxicated smile on his face. "General, do you regret your earlier rudeness toward me? If you hadn''t, perhaps you wouldn''t find yourself in such a predicament today."


    Raiden Makoto was silent for a long time before she replied faintly, "I have no regrets."


    "You truly have no need to regret," Lucas said, changing his tone. "In fact, conquering Inazuma was always one of my ns. It was merely a matter of when, not if."


    "My... my sister was no match for you. That much is beyond dispute," Raiden Makoto said calmly. "Victory and defeat aremon in warfare. There''s no need for you to gloat."


    "But I will gloat!" Lucas spread his arms wide,ughing maniacally. "Look at this room¡ªI prepared it especially to imprison you."


    "How coincidental," Raiden Makoto sneered coldly. "In Inazuma, I also had a room prepared just for you."


    "Audacious!"


    Lucas grabbed Raiden Makoto by the hair. A sharp glint shed in her eyes, but Lucas was unfazed. Unlike Raiden Ei, Makoto might also be a deity, but her power was negligible byparison. She posed no threat to him at all.


    Even in the face of his aggression, Raiden Makoto remainedposed, sneering coldly. "You may have defeated me, but... I will never yield to you."


    In that instant, Lucas sensed an intense aura of menace emanating from her. It was the kind of feeling he''d only experienced when fighting Raiden Ei.


    "Wait a moment..." Lucas narrowed his eyes coldly. "You wouldn''t happen to actually be Raiden Ei, would you?"


    After all, the two of them were so alike that even among identical twins, it would be nearly impossible to tell them apart.


    What''s more, Raiden Ei was officially Makoto''s "shadow warrior," her double. If she had reced Makoto and allowed herself to be captured, it wouldn''t be entirely out of the question.


    Even though Makoto didn''t possess Ei''s strength, she had once been a god. Without a Vision, she could still resist elemental forces to some degree. This made discerning between them extremely difficult.


    "I am Raiden Makoto," she argued immediately. "There''s no need for you to doubt."


    "It''s not hard to determine whether you''re Makoto or Ei," Lucas said, gripping Makoto''s chin with a cold glint in his eyes. "What I''m about to do next¡ªif you''re Ei, you''d resist without question."


    With ease, Lucas pushed Raiden Makoto onto the bed. Her arms weren''t as frail as one might expect. She made a token effort to push him away but ultimately gave up, allowing herself to be at his mercy.


    "Are you truly not resisting?" he asked, his tone slow and mocking as he defiled the goddess. "Is it because you''re powerless, or are you afraid of revealing your identity and intentionally holding back?"


    "I don''t have my sister''s immense strength," Raiden Makoto said, biting her lip. "From the moment I became a hostage, I was prepared to sacrifice myself."


    ording to the Wisdom of West Wind, the best strategy was to use Raiden Makoto as a hostage. Yet in truth, it didn''t matter to Lucas¡ªwhether she was Makoto or Ei.


    As a god, he wasn''t like mortals, prone to being blinded by desire. While the woman before him possessed beauty and grace unmatched even by Amos, his satisfaction stemmed not from her appearance but from the thrill of conquest.


    Conquering nations. Conquering Inazuma. And now¡ªconquering a powerful and beautiful woman.


    Makoto closed her eyes, seemingly resigned to her fate.


    "Open your eyes and look at me," hemanded, his tone brooking no dissent. "As a hostage, you are bound by our treaty. You cannot refuse any of my demands, or... I will invade Inazuma again."


    Raiden Makoto hesitated briefly but ultimately opened her eyes.


    What beautiful eyes they were. Though they brimmed with hatred, he remained unperturbed.


    As Lucas advanced upon her, it was as though he were breaking through the formidable barriers of Inazuma once more¡ªwith irond will and relentless force, quenching his victories in the fiery blood of battle.


    Her body shone with bursts of lightning, each touch jolting her like a defibritor. At first, the lightning caused him intense pain. But over time¡ªperhaps due to the weakening of Makoto''s power or his body''s growing resilience from fighting Raiden Ei¡ªthe pain subsided, transforming into a surge of strength.


    [Exiting Immersive Mode]


    [Acquired Trait: Conductive Physique]


    [Effect: Your resistance to Electro elements has greatly increased. When struck by Electro attacks, there is a small chance of recovering health.]


    [Entering Text Mode]


    Had he truly developed resistance to electricity?


    Though the name of this trait seemed ordinary and its applications limited, it was undeniably practical. Among the seven elements of Teyvat, gaining resistance to even one was a significant advantage.


    [Age 2147: Years have passed since Inazuma''s conquest. As a vassal state of Mondstadt, Inazuma remained subdued. Many Mondstadters traveled overseas, bing merchants or settling in Inazuma, easing the tensions that once gued Mondstadt.]


    [Initially, the people of Inazuma resisted Mondstadt''s control fiercely. Civilian uprisings aimed at overthrowing the regime were crushed with upromising force.]


    [Age 2321: Arge-scale rebellion emerged in Inazuma''s inds, rallying hundreds of thousands in an attempt to reim sovereignty. Yet the insurrection was effortlessly suppressed by your army.]


    [Mondstadt''s betrayal had taught you a harsh lesson: soft rain and gentle winds could never secure loyalty. For these rebels, only a storm would suffice.]


    [All rebels were enved and sold asmodities. As for the captured soldiers, they were cast into the sea and drowned¡ªthe number reached hundreds of thousands.]


    ---


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 169: Villain Simulator, Ch 168

    <h4>Chapter 169: Viin Simtor, Ch 168</h4>


    [At that moment, in addition to titles like the Solitary King of the Tower and Lord of Tempests, you gained a more fearsome name¡ªGod of ughter.]


    [Age 2561: Atst, no one dared to resist anymore. Over time, the people of Inazuma began to taste the benefits of your rule and gradually epted your governance.]


    [After all, the old Inazuma had always been isted. Mondstadt''s ck Ships not only broke through Inazuma''s borders but also ended its era of national seclusion. The Shogunate''s influence waned, and Mondstadt''s culture began to take root on this ind nation.]


    [As for your "queen," Raiden Makoto, she seemed to havee to terms with everything. Though you bore the title of "tyrant," there was no deep hatred between you and Raiden Makoto.]


    [At the beginning, she resisted you vehemently, even harboring some hatred. But over time, she seemed to grow ustomed to you and this new way of life.]


    [asionally, you would "conquer" this foreign goddess anew, and Raiden Makoto grew used to the process of being conquered. Though she did not have the strength of her sister Raiden Ei, she was still a divine being and could endure your storm-like advances.]


    [You could tell Raiden Makoto was sincerely trying to y the role of a "wife." Whether her feelings were genuine or feigned, it was at least not a bad thing. She even attempted to manage the tower for you and prepare meals. After tasting her cooking, you immediately invited the Four Winds to join you in a dinner to sample her efforts.]


    [The reason was simple: it was a rare opportunity to "share joys and sorrows" with your vassals.]


    [Seeing their expressions after swallowing the "delicacies," a rare, heartfelt smile appeared on your face.]


    [Regarding the meal''s evaluation, the South Windmented it was a bit too salty, the East Wind reverted to its true form, the North Wind vomitted on the spot, and the West Wind solemnly told you that if she evermitted a crime, she would prefer execution over enduring such a punishment.]


    [Of course, you hadn''t forgotten your little pet¡ªthe wind spirit imprisoned in the depths of the tower.]


    [At this point, aside from the Four Winds, even you had almost forgotten Barbatos. Your former visits to torment her stemmed mostly from your emptiness.]


    [Now, as a god of two nations, you were busier than ever and had fewer opportunities to "visit" Barbatos.]


    [This time, you poured fine wine over Raiden Makoto''s cooking. Barbatos took a bite and dered it was a thousand times worse than your scepter.]


    [Age 2564: Because of the banquet incident, Raiden Makoto believed you were mocking her and ignored you for three years. Eventually, however, you reconciled, followed by a passionate battle.]


    [You and the Raiden Shogun, once mortal enemies, now shared a rtionship akin to an ordinary married couple.]


    [But you knew you didn''t love her. Your love had been extinguished with Amos'' death long ago. Besides, if true affection did stir in your heart, the higher existence above you wouldn''t tolerate it.]


    ["Do you still hate me?" you asked on impulse.]


    ["Of course I hate you," Raiden Makoto replied coldly. "I hate you for invading mynd, ughtering my people, and separating me from my sister. I''ve always wanted to know why you attacked Inazuma."]


    ["To fulfill a dear friend''s dream," you answered without hesitation. "She wanted to see the world, so I conquered it for her, bringing all of Teyvat within view of my tower."]


    ["No, that''s just an excuse," Raiden Makoto retorted bluntly. "You did it because wind flows through your veins. That wind must sweep across the world, and its name is ''conquest.''"]


    [Her words silenced you. Indeed, you hadn''t thought of Amos in ages. Perhaps your conquest was just a pretext to satisfy your own desires.]


    ["Then go conquer," Raiden Makoto murmured, pressing her cheek against your back. "I wish you victory."]


    [Age 2721: The peace didn''tst. From the distant icynd of Snezhnaya, envoys of the Fatui arrived, seeking diplomatic rtions with Mondstadt.]


    [Snezhnaya, one of Teyvat''s seven nations, was a powerful force. You understood that the Fatui''s mission was less about diplomacy and more about intelligence gathering.]


    [The eleven leaders of the Fatui, known as the Harbingers, feigned respect but hid disdain behind their masks. In their eyes, you were merely a brute¡ªa barbaric tyrant without strategy.]


    [As a god of a nation, you maintained yourposure, hosting a grand wee banquet for the Harbingers.]


    [During the banquet, a tipsy Harbinger raised his ss and jested, "Mondstadt''s wine truly lives up to its reputation. If the Anemo Archon could tribute such wine annually to Her Majesty, the Tsaritsa would surely be delighted."]


    [The others, catching his slip, didn''t stop him. Instead, they smiled slyly, as if enjoying a show.]


    [After all, in their eyes, even abined Mondstadt and Inazuma could never rival Snezhnaya. Subjugating you was only a matter of time.]


    ["Did you say ''tribute'' just now?" you smiled faintly. "No problem. Bring out Mondstadt''s finest wine for this esteemed Harbinger."]


    [Soon, a massive wine vat¡ªused only during Mondstadt''s annual Wine Festival¡ªwas brought in. This vat, filled to the brim, was usually offered to the citizens for free consumption.]


    [The insolent Harbinger, oblivious to your simmering anger, smiled and said, "It seems the Anemo Archon is most understanding. Her Majesty will surely appreciate such a gift."]


    ["No rush," you said calmly. "This wine is for you. Drink it all¡ªdon''t waste a drop."]


    ["Surely you jest," he stammered, cold sweat forming. "Not even a hundred men could finish that."]


    ["I said," you repeated, each word chilling, "Drink. It. All."]


    [The pressure emanating from you made the atmosphere suffocating. Even your restrained wind aura stung their faces. They realized you weren''t joking.]


    [Forced toply, the Harbinger began drinking but soon turned pale. Another Harbinger attempted to mediate, hoping you would forgive the offense.]


    [You leaned on your hand, eyes half-closed, and sneered. "Do you want to drink too?"]


    ["Anemo Archon," the Harbinger tried a veiled threat. "Her Majesty will remember this."]


    ["Oh? I was merely going to teach him a lesson," you said, amused. "But now I''m curious¡ªwhat can she do to me?"]


    [With that, you appeared before the offender, severed his arms with wind des, and threw him into the vat. Sealing the lid, you watched the wine turn darker with his blood.]


    [The other Harbingers, once arrogant, now fell silent, terrified by your ruthlessness.]


    ["What a waste of wine," you said, running a finger along the ss. "Deliver this ''gift'' to your queen. Tell her Mondstadt''s gates are always open, and there''s a secondrgest bed in my tower, reserved just for her."]


    [This is undoubtedly a naked provocation. All those harbringers were trembling with anger, but they could do nothing about you. After all, the reason they were so arrogant was that they relied on the powerful national strength of the Snezhnaya.]


    ["I will convey your message to Her Majesty the Tsaritsa," the Fatui''s executive, who was leading the group, stood up and said with a grim face, "I hope you won''t regret your choice today."]


    ["Regret? Don''t you know?" you said arrogantly, "The wind always blows in one direction and never turns back." You added, "By the way, don''t forget to take my gift with you."]


    [The Fatui''s executive, carrying the coffin-like wine barrel, left in defeat. This was not a joyful banquet, and you knew deep down that Snezhnaya would not let this go easily.]


    [At that time, Snezhnaya had already established diplomatic rtions with Nan, Fontaine, and the Sumeru. If war truly broke out, it would undoubtedly be a massive conflict that would affect the entire Teyvat continent.]


    [Age 2732: Snezhnaya didn''t tolerate your actions and dered war. Fontaine and Nan sided with Snezhnaya, while Sumeru remained neutral.]


    [Liyue, though abstaining from direct involvement, offered support as Mondstadt''s ally.]


    [However, this was not Morax''s decision. Though still Liyue''s god at the time, he had stepped back from ruling directly, unlike the gods of other nations. Instead, he had gradually withdrawn from power, entrusting governance to the people themselves.]


    [The decision was made by the "Liyue Qixing," a governing bodyposed entirely of humans.]


    [As war loomed, you personally led your army across Liyue, aiming to conquer Fontaine first as a strategic entry point into Snezhnaya.]


    [Fontaine, of course, was well-prepared for the war. At their border, they had constructed a supposedly imprable defensive line to repel Mondstadt''s forces.]


    [However, to Fontaine''s surprise, rather than a direct assault on this "absolute defense," you chose an unconventional tactic. Using hurricanes, you pushed through the mountains, carving out a new front and bypassing their defenses entirely.]


    [While thecent people of Fontaine believed their position secure, you led your forces straight into Fontaine''s territory.]


    [You had anticipated a brutal campaign, even preparing for prolonged conflict. But unexpectedly, after only six weeks of stalemate, Fontaine chose to surrender.]


    [You didn''t even have to reach Fontaine''s capital before they raised the white g.]


    [Perhaps it was your reputation as the "God of ughter" thatpelled their surrender. In a gesture of submission, the Hydro Archon even willingly offered her Gnosis, pleading for the forgiveness of her people.]


    [Fontaine''s surrender, though not an immediate game-changer, dealt a significant blow to Snezhnaya''s position. With Fontaine''s defeat serving as the spark, the grand war engulfing Teyvat was set in motion.]


    [Age 2783: The war raged for decades. Both the Snezhnaya bloc and the Mondstadt bloc were severely weakened. However, thanks to Mondstadt''s umted resources and its trade with Inazuma for supplies, your forces gradually gained the upper hand.]


    [In the same year, Snezhnaya sent envoys to request aid from Liyue, only to be tly rejected by the Liyue Qixing.]


    [At year''s end, Snezhnaya experienced an unusually harsh snowfall, with temperatures plummeting to unprecedented lows. Ironically, this extreme weather provided Snezhnaya with a reprieve. One of the primary challenges for Mondstadt''s forces had been enduring the bitter cold, and this snowstorm served as a natural barrier.]


    [Seizing this opportunity, you unleashed your full power to create a massive storm that swept across Snezhnaya, dispersing the umted snow. With their defenses exposed, Mondstadt''s forcesunched a decisive assault, capturing the key city of Snezhnaya.]


    [This battle marked a turning point in the war. From that moment, Snezhnaya''s strength began to wane, and their chances of victory diminished.]


    [Age 2789: Even so, unlike Fontaine, which surrendered at the first sign of trouble, Snezhnaya resisted for several more years despite their inevitable defeat. The war finally ended when you led your army to breach Snezhnaya''s gates and storm the Tsaritsa''s Winter Pce.]


    [Entering Immersion Mode]


    The once-opulent pce was now piled with corpses. The formerly pristine floors, smooth as ice, were stained with red and ck blood.


    The once-mighty Harbingers were no more. Either they had fallen in battle or been crushed defending their nation.


    Seated high upon her throne, the defeated Tsaritsa, the Cryo Archon, remained poised and elegant, showing no trace of despair.


    She was a strikingly beautiful woman, her allure rivaling even that of the Raiden sisters. Yet her cold demeanor made her seem more like an ice sculpture.


    "Your Majesty," you said with mocking politeness. "I''ve personallye to visit you in Snezhnaya. You must be so moved."


    After all, at the war''s outset, everyone believed that the powerful Snezhnaya could never lose.


    But now, the Lord of Tempests stood in the pce of the Ice Queen.


    "You can kill me," the Tsaritsa said coolly. "But you cannot defeat me."


    "Oh, I can do more than defeat you," you replied, stepping onto the stairs leading to her icy throne. "I''ll make you submit to me."


    Though the Tsaritsa still retained her divine power, it was clear she had lost the will to fight.


    "Toote," she said with a faint, icy smile. "You will never make the dead submit to you."


    You froze in surprise as you noticed her arm had already turned to ice, the frost spreading rapidly across her body.


    "Hmph."


    You scoffed. "I expected you to fight me to the death, yet you choose to die this cowardly way? Your Majesty, you truly disappoint me."


    "Sometimes, living is more painful than dying," the Tsaritsa said, her lips curving into a faint smile. "You and I are different. You seek conquest; I sought rebellion."


    "Rebellion?" you raised an eyebrow. "Clearly, your rebellion has failed."


    "No," she replied, shaking her head. "I wasn''t rebelling against you but against something greater. If no one resists, one day, this entire world will be nothing more than ''nourishment.'' At that point, it won''t matter who rules it."


    Her words shook you deeply.


    As one of the Seven Archons, you were aware of Celestia''s existence¡ªthe higher order that governed the gods. Yet you knew little of their purpose.


    To the Seven Archons, Celestia was as untouchable as the Archons were to mortals.


    For the Tsaritsa to rebel against Celestia was as absurd as a mortal rebelling against the divine.


    "You want to... rebel against Celestia?" you asked, lowering your voice.


    "What''s this? Are you afraid?" Frost had crept to her shoulders, but she still managed a mocking smile. "Even if you conquer Teyvat, what then? Your tower, no matter how high, will always stand beneath the heavens."


    Her words left you speechless.


    Indeed, what was the point of defeating Snezhnaya or conquering Teyvat? As long as a greater power loomed above, true freedom would remain out of reach.


    "Tell me..." you said, cing a hand on her ice-crusted shoulder. "What should I do?"


    The Tsaritsa''s blue lips parted as she whispered a few final words. Then, her body froze entirely, transforming into an ice sculpture.


    From the statue emerged a faintly glowing "chess piece," which floated into your palm.


    It was her Gnosis¡ªthe Cryo Archon''s heart. The seven Gnosis pieces were integral to her rebellion.


    This formidable enemy, who had fought you for decades, entrusted her unfinished ns to you¡ªa "tyrant"¡ªin her final moments.


    The Teyvat War, which spanned decades, ended with a brief, enigmatic exchange between the Anemo and Cryo Archons. None would ever know what passed between you that day in the Winter Pce.


    [Exiting Immersive Mode]


    [Reward Acquired: Cryo Gnosis]


    [Task Progress: Collect Seven Gnosis (2/7)]


    So he had acquired another Gnosis?


    Lucas nearly forgot that collecting all seven was the "main quest."


    By rights, after defeating Fontaine, he should have acquired the Hydro Gnosis as well. Perhaps the simtor restricted rewards to one Gnosis per simtion.


    Otherwise, this simtion might have allowed him to gather all seven in one go.


    [Returning to Text Mode]


    [Age 2790: The war between Mondstadt and Snezhnaya finally came to an end, even forcing the war-hardened Nan to ept defeat.]


    [Fontaine, Snezhnaya, and Nan, like Inazuma before them, became vassal states of Mondstadt. Their three Gnoses were now in your possession.]


    [The world order was reshaped. Though Liyue had not joined the war, it provided substantial aid to Mondstadt, strengthening your rear defenses. Eventually, you visited Liyue to strike a "deal" with Morax, whom you hadn''t seen in years.]


    [The result: Liyue gained half of Snezhnaya''s territory, and you acquired Morax''s Geo Gnosis.]


    ----


    Author''s Note: Extra Chapter!

 Chapter 170: Villain Simulator, Ch 169

    <h4>Chapter 170: Viin Simtor, Ch 169</h4>


    [At this point, you had collected six of the seven Gnoses, and the Tsaritsa''s unfinished n was but a step away.]


    [However, you had no intention of inheriting her will. Your purpose was not to be "conquered" by anyone. Conquest and freedom are opposites by nature. Your obsession with building the tower was not to gaze upon thends you had subdued but to one day free yourself from the earth''s constraints.]


    [Age 3013: You traveled alone to Sumeru, the Nation of Wisdom. Your arrival set the nation on high alert. After all, you were a tyrant who had conquered four nations, and your "ambitions" were no secret.]


    [But you came with no army, only expressing a desire to meet the Dendro Archon.]


    [This, naturally, provoked much suspicion. What if you took this chance to kill the Dendro Archon? Among the Seven, known for wisdom rather than strength, the Dendro Archon would be no match for you.]


    [To everyone''s surprise, the Dendro Archon agreed to meet you.]


    [Amid a vast library that resembled a castle of books, you met the legendary Dendro Archon. The Archon was a beautiful and graceful woman, rivalling Makoto and Tsaritsa in appearance.]


    [Entering Immersive Mode]


    "So, God of Storms fromnds afar, conqueror of five nations¡ªwhat brings you to me?" The Dendro Archon, Rukkhadevata''s voice was steady. "As far as I know, thisnd has neither abundant resources nor fertile soils."


    [Image here]


    "But it has the most precious treasure of all," Lucas replied calmly. "Wisdom."


    "Wisdom is the greatest enemy of the God of Wisdom," she replied with a faint sigh. "With each new wisdom gained, I draw closer to my end. Wisdom... is a curse."


    "I came seeking the answer to a single question," Lucas said, expressionless. "Now, I am a student, not a conqueror."


    "We are all students," Rukkhadevata said with a slight smile. "This ce wees learners. Speak, what is your question?"


    Lucas spoke a single sentence, and her smile froze.


    "What''s wrong?" Lucas asked, frowning. "Is the question so difficult to answer?"


    "Yes, it is," Rukkhadevata replied after a pause. "If I reveal the answer, I will perish immediately. And you, too, will not survive for long after knowing it."


    She shook her head. "All you have worked for will be an illusion, a fleeting dream. Is it worth it? Ignorance, at times, is a blessing. There is still time to turn back."


    "I saw a flock ofmbs on my way here," Lucas said slowly, each word deliberate. "They were blissful, chewing on the grass, utterly unaware. But the butcher stood nearby, sharpening his de, his eyes fixed on the plumpestmb."


    "You don''t want to be ughtered like thembs?" she asked.


    "I don''t want to be the de in someone else''s hands," Lucas replied.


    His answer left the her silent for a long time. Atst, the Rukkhadevata nodded and said, "I will tell you the answer, and I will give you my Gnosis. But you must agree to my terms¡ªconquer Sumeru if you must, but leave the books untouched."


    "I promise Mondstadt will not invade Sumeru," Lucas replied. "There is no longer any need for conquest."


    The Dendro Archon told him the answer. With each word spoken, her body aged further. By the time she finished, her form had curled into itself, and her Gnosis floated out from her lifeless husk,nding in his palm.


    As the Gnosis departed, Rukkhadevata''s body crumbled to dust, leaving only soil. From that soil, a vibrant green sprout slowly emerged.


    [Exiting Immersive Mode]


    [Reward Acquired: "Teachings of the God of Wisdom" Talent]


    [Effect: Significantly enhances learning andprehension abilities.]


    [Entering Text Mode]


    [Age 3014: Armed with the answer from the Dendro Archon, you returned to Mondstadt and enacted an iprehensible decree¡ªto collect all Vision across the five nations and send them to the summit of your tower.]


    [This decree sparked turmoil, but your tyrannical reputation left citizens too fearful to resist. One by one, Visions were surrendered.]


    [You also began restricting the use of elemental power, investing heavily in technological advancements to reduce dependence on elemental forces.]


    [Age 3142: Initially, the Vision confiscation caused widespread dissatisfaction. Those deprived of their Visions experienced emotional distress, even despair.]


    [However, as the confiscation did not affect lives directly and you refrained from further tyranny, the people gradually epted the decree.]


    [Age 3287: Under your leadership, technological advancements surged. Reliance on elemental power diminished noticeably.]


    [Age 3482: Liyue''s Geo Archon, Morax, was assassinated during the annual Rite of Descension. The Liyue Qixing decided not to appoint a new Archon.]


    [Age 3521: Years after the Vision confiscation, when the time was ripe, you issued a new decree¡ªthe abolition of the Archon system.]


    [The gods of the five nations under your rule were dethroned. This decision caused far less upheaval than the Vision confiscation had years earlier.]


    [Most of the other gods had be your puppets anyway, and as technology advanced, reliance on elemental power continued to wane.]


    [Sumeru, after the Dendro Archon''s death, never appointed a sessor.]


    [Thus, the millennia-old dominion of the Seven Archons crumbled, and your n moved to its final phase.]


    [Age 3568: The ever-silent Celestia finally took notice. You had be a legitimate threat.]


    [You were not the first to provoke Celestia, but all previous nations that dared had been annihted by the "Celestial Nails," massive spears from the heavens.]


    [One such Nail now hovered above Mondstadt, poised to obliterate yournds and people.]


    [But unlike those before, you did not await destruction. Celestia''s only mistake was granting you time to grow.]


    [Atop your towering citadel stood a colossal cannon. Its ammunition? The energy harvested from the thousands of Visions you had gathered over centuries.]


    ["Let''s see," you murmured, pressing the firing mechanism. "This is the power of thembs."]


    [The cannon fired not one of the seven elemental forces but a colossal beam of pure light, striking the Nail with overwhelming force.]


    [Under the hopes and dreams condensed into that beam, the Nail shattered into dust. The light pierced the skies, reaching beyond the clouds.]


    [For the first time, a Celestial Nail was destroyed, a direct challenge to Celestia''s authority. One of Celestia''s Sustainers descended to confront you.]


    ["Skyfrost bestowed divinity upon you," the Sustainer dered. "Why do you defy Celestia?"]


    ["My neck hurts from looking up at you," you replied, unperturbed. "I have fought for millennia. Today marks my final battle."]


    ["You cannot defeat me," the Sustainer scoffed. "No force in this world can harm me."]


    ["Of course. The Visions are devices you use to harvest mortal energy, and the Gnoses are shackles binding this world''s power." In your palm, seven Gnoses glowed faintly. "What happens if the shackles are broken?"]


    [The Sustainer''s confident expression faltered. In panic, she summoned countless ck cubes to engulf you. But just before they consumed you, you crushed all seven Gnoses.]


    [A radiant beam shattered the spatial cubes. The Gnoses were not divine authority but locks sealing power. Now unbound, the Seven Archons'' sealed energies merged within you, forming a new element¡ªLight.]


    ["This power will destroy you," the Sustainer warned. "It is beyond your control."]


    ["I''d rather be destroyed than ruled," you dered as the light in your palm formed a sword. "Fate is mine to decide, not Celestia''s!"]


    [You were not the first to defy Celestia with a de, but you may be the first to strike fear into a Sustainer''s eyes.]


    [The voice of the long-dead Dendro Archon echoed in your mind¡ªonly the light of hope can pierce Celestia''s shadow.]


    [This was a battle beyond the boundaries of the world, a conflict so monumental that words could hardly capture its magnitude. On one side was the supreme power to control space; on the other, the former tyrant wielding the light of hope. Each sh between them risked the destruction of the entire world.]


    [However, the Sustainer of Celestia drew her power from the hopes of others, continually harvested through the Visions. Now that the source of her strength had vanished, the light of hope in your hands only grew stronger.]


    [In the end, the sword of light pierced the Sustainer''s chest. The divine being, immune to all earthly forces, was pierced by a power beyond the seven elements.]


    ["I admit," the Sustainer said with a strange smile, "right now, you are indeed stronger. But you''ve still changed nothing."]


    ["Perhaps," you replied, "but I''ve already nted the seed."]


    [With those words, the Sustainer''s body dissolved into countless tiny cubes, dispersing into the world.]


    [This was not a perfect victory. To wield power that surpasses Celestia''ses at a cost that not even a god can endure.]


    [You could already see your end approaching, but you felt no sorrow. Though you had not defeated every being on the Celestial Ind, your actions had proven that the Sustainers were not invincible.]


    [Standing atop your tower, your body began to dissolve into particles of light. The sight of their leader triumphing over the Sustainer brought your people to their knees in worship.]


    ["No kneeling," your calm voice carried like the wind to every ear. "Remember, when I am gone, there is no one left worth kneeling to."]


    [You became light, disappearing from this world. But you did not die. Instead, you lived on in another form. A towering tree may fall, but the seed is already nted. It only needs time to sprout and grow into another tree that pierces the heavens. A man will die, but not his ideas.]


    [Simtion Ends]


    [Cause of Death: Exhaustion]


    [Please choose one inherent talent to keep: "Majestic Aura," "Endless Tempest," or "Protective Gale."]


    The choice was almost too obvious.


    "Majestic Aura" held no meaning for Lucas, who had no interest in ruling or conquest. Meanwhile, "Protective Gale," though useful, came with significant drawbacks for ordinary individuals.


    "I choose ''Endless Tempest.''"


    [Inherent Talent Acquired: "Endless Tempest"]


    [Endless Tempest (Gold): As the Lord of Wind, you possess unparalleled control over the Anemo element. Tornadoes dance to yourmand, and hurricanes bow to your will.]


    [Weapon Reward Acquired: "Amos'' Bow"]


    [Amos'' Bow]


    [Rank: S]


    [Effects: 1. Increases normal and charged attack damage by 20%.


    2. Extends maximum range by 100%.


    3. Damage increases with the distance traveled by the arrow.]


    [Would you like to ept the talent "Light of Hope"?]


    [Effect: Grants mastery over the light element. However, each use risks drawing the attention of higher-dimensional beings.]


    "Wait, there''s a talent I can refuse?" Lucas asked casually. "What happens if these higher-dimensional beings notice me?"


    [Uncertain. You might be destroyed, or nothing might happen.]


    It was hard to predict.


    If the "higher-dimensional beings" referred to Celestia, then Lucas, in their eyes, was likely no more than a mouse in a corner.


    They might ignore the mouse¡ªor they might react violently if it suddenly wielded a weapon capable of threatening them.


    Declining this talent was clearly the safest choice.


    But Lucas... was never one to y it safe.


    "I''ll take it!"


    At worst, he could simply refrain from using it.


    When Lucas opened his eyes again, he was back atop the tower.


    In the simtion, it was here that he had be light.


    This had been the longest simtion yet, spanning the entire life of the Solitary King of the Tower, Decarabian.


    The stone tablet that had triggered the simtion was now covered in cracks. Momentster, it shattered into countless fragments, as if it had fulfilled its purpose and could finally rest.


    "Goodnight, Decarabian."


    A voice startled Lucas. He turned quickly, only to see none other than Venti!


    "What are you doing here?" Lucas asked in surprise. "Weren''t you supposed to be outside the Storm Barrier?"


    "Oh, those guys have been dealt with," Venti said with a shrug and a grin. "So, have you read what was written on that tablet?"


    Lucas nodded silently.


    "That tablet was inscribed in Decarabian''s name," Venti said nonchntly, revealing a startling secret. "But the story it tells is not the real life of the King of the Tower. It''s about... a Decarabian who appeared in one of my dreams."


    Indeed, it was impossible for this tablet to be a relic of this world''s Decarabian. If it were, the world''s history would have beenpletely different.


    "It was a strange dream," Venti continued. "In it, the King of the Tower wasn''t overthrown. Instead, he imprisoned me¡ªback when I was just a wind spirit¡ªand tormented me endlessly."


    "But," Venti added with augh, "I can''t entirely me him. After all, in that dream, I did some pretty awful things."


    "I saw," Lucas nodded. "It was indeed awful."


    Of course, what he saw wasn''t through the tablet but via the simtor.


    "Ha ha..." Venti chuckled awkwardly. Gazing at the sky beyond the tower, aplex expression crossed his face. "Strangely enough, I don''t hate him. In that dream, he achieved something no one else ever could."


    Venti was, of course, referring to defeating the Sustainer of Celestia. Even for gods, such a feat was nearly unimaginable.


    "But do you know what''s even stranger?" Venti leaned closer to Lucas, a glint of mischief in his eyes.


    "What is it?" Lucas instinctively took two steps back.


    "In the dream," Venti said, enunciating every word, "that Decarabian who tormented me... looked exactly like you."


    ---


    Author''s note: Actually, I think Rukkhadevata was not revealed at the time of this novel''s release, so the author wrote her off as an old wise man.... Even though I''ve added her now, I haven''t nned anything rted to her for the future.. xD


    Next extra Chapter at 1969 powerstones.

 Chapter 171: Villain Simulator, Ch 170

    <h4>Chapter 171: Viin Simtor, Ch 170</h4>


    Damn!


    Hearing Venti''s remark, Lucas felt a chill down his spine. Could this guy actually hold a grudge over something like this?


    "Dreams can''t be taken seriously, right?" Lucas quickly recovered hisposure, forcing a smile. "Besides, I have nothing to do with that Lord of the Tower."


    "Really?" Venti leaned in closer, his pale green eyes shimmering with an unsettling glint. Then, breaking into a mischievous grin, he chuckled. "Rx, I was joking. Are you ready? I''m about to call Dvalin."


    "Huh?" Lucas asked, surprised. "Didn''t the Holy Lyre get confiscated?"


    "I''ve said it before¡ªthe Holy Lyre is just a harp, no different from any other. It only carries some sentimental value," Venti replied, shaking his head with a sigh. "But I probably can''t bring myself to fight her. The battle ahead will be up to you."


    "No problem," Lucas nodded. "I was ready to face her alone from the start."


    Dvalin''s strength, while not on par with a true god, was among the top-tier beings of her kind. Lucas''s confidence in handling such a foe spoke volumes about his own abilities.


    Venti nodded, pulling out a finely crafted wooden harp. As his delicate fingers plucked the strings, a hauntingly beautiful melody filled the air.


    ---


    <strong>"ROAR!"</strong>


    The music seemed to summon a low, anguished dragon''s roar from the heavens above, filled with both fury and pain.


    "She''sing!"


    At Venti''s words, a massive emerald dragon descended from the sky, fixing her ferocious gaze on the pair before her.


    "Dvalin!" Venti called out, his voice tinged with desperation. "Can you hear me?"


    But her only response was a spiraling wind cannon aimed straight at them.


    "Defensive barrier!" Lucas quickly activated a talisman, conjuring a transparent shield that blocked the wind cannon. Even so, the tform beneath them trembled violently.


    "Let''s go!" Lucas summoned another card. "Blue-Eyes White Dragon!"


    Just as before, a towering white dragon emerged from the void, its streamlined body lunging toward Stormterror Dvalin.


    The two dragons shed, their fierce battle shaking the air around them.


    Unlike the previous encounter in Mondstadt, where the Blue-Eyes White Dragon had to hold back to avoid harming civilians, this time there were no such restraints. Unleashing its full power and bolstered by Lucas''s enhancements, the Blue-Eyes White Dragon fought Dvalin to a standstill.


    "To tame such a mighty creature..." Venti murmured, marveling at the spectacle. "You''re no ordinary person."


    There was an undertone to Venti''s words, but Lucas brushed it off with a casual reply: "It''s nothing. I''ve just raised her since she was young."


    Venti clearly didn''t buy this excuse, but he chose not to press further, focusing instead on the aerial sh of the dragons.


    Though the Blue-Eyes White Dragon was fierce, it was still outmatched by Dvalin in both strength and experience. This was Dvalin''s domain, after all. Before long, the White Dragon began to falter.


    "Take this! <strong>Five Thunder Strike!</strong>"


    Lucas wasn''t idle. With another talisman, he summoned bolts of lightning from the sky to strike Dvalin. While the attack didn''t seriously injure her, it made her recoil in pain, giving the Blue-Eyes White Dragon an opening to unleash a searing beam of white light.


    But Dvalin, having experienced this attack before, twisted through the air in an elegant arc. With a flick of her enormous tail, she shed toward the White Dragon.


    Already at a disadvantage, the Blue-Eyes White Dragon struggled to evade.


    As Dvalin''s tail closed in, an arrow streaked through the air with a piercing whistle.


    The arrow, faster than the White Dragon''s beam of light, tore through the clouds surrounding the tower and struck Dvalin''s wing membrane, ripping through it.


    <strong>"ROAR!"</strong>


    Dvalin howled in pain, her bnce faltering.


    Lucas stood atop the tower, holding Amos'' Bow. A second arrow was already nocked, aimed straight at Dvalin''s heart.


    Ordinary arrows wouldn''t harm Dvalin, but Amos'' Bow was no ordinary weapon¡ªit was a legendary artifact, its power sufficient to intimidate even gods.


    Yet, as Lucas looked into Dvalin''s anguished eyes, his fingers hesitated on the bowstring.


    It wasn''t just Venti''s earlier plea or the White Dragon''s silent request for mercy. In the simtion, Dvalin had been one of his Four Winds. He didn''t want to take her life.


    Wait!


    Lucas''s gaze sharpened as he noticed a faint, purple sharp spike on Dvalin''s nape, radiating ominous energy.


    The source of her corruption!


    Adjusting his aim, Lucas released the arrow. It flew true, striking the corrupted blood clots squarely.


    With a piercing scream, Dvalin thrashed against the corruption. Finally, the corrupted blood clots shattered into fragments, dissolving into the air. Freed from its grip, Dvalin was engulfed in a massive tornado.


    When the winds cleared, a girl with long green hair tumbled out, falling toward the ground.


    "Kisara!"


    Leaping onto the Blue-Eyes White Dragon''s back, Lucas caught the girl mid-fall, cradling her safely in his arms.


    The girl''s delicate features were striking, her snow-white skin faintly patterned with emerald scales. But her body was frail and weak.


    Slowly, she opened her eyes, gazing at Lucas with a mixture of surprise and relief. "Master... I knew... we would meet again."


    Wait... <strong>Master?!</strong>


    You''ve got the wrong person! Your master is the bard over there!


    Was this some kind of mix-up?


    Before Lucas could respond, the girl fainted in his arms, likely due to her injuries.


    Seriously, what''s with these dragons? Why are they all female? Have male dragons gone extinct?


    <strong>"BOOM!"</strong>


    A thunderous crash from the tower behind him drew Lucas''s attention. The ancient structure, weakened by battle and years of decay, now sported a massive crack. Its time was up.


    "Hey! Don''t leave me here!" Venti shouted, frantically waving from the tower. "I''m not on the dragon yet!"


    Suppressing augh, Lucas guided the Blue-Eyes White Dragon toward the crumbling tower. Thanks to his <strong>Ride Anything</strong> talent, controlling the dragon was as effortless as piloting a vehicle.


    "Grab my hand!"


    ----


    Author''s Note: me WN forte Chapter..

 Chapter 172: Villain Simulator, Ch 171

    <h4>Chapter 172: Viin Simtor, Ch 171</h4>


    Lucas extended his hand toward Venti, who grabbed it without hesitation. The moment Venti was pulled to safety, the entire tower copsed, crumbling into ruins alongside its forgotten history.


    The Blue-Eyes White Dragon descended gracefully, carrying the three of them safely to the ground.


    Lucas gazed at the ruins with a mix of emotions, but suddenly, a thought struck him like lightning. Panic surged through his chest as he sprinted toward the rubble, shouting, "Lumine! Paimon!"


    Though they hadn''t followed him to the tower''s summit, they had been inside it. Lucas feared the falling debris might have crushed them.


    He frantically began clearing the rubble with his bare hands, unwilling to risk using des or elemental power in case it hurt them further.


    Soon, his hands were raw and bloodied despite his Self-Healing Factor, which barely kept up with the damage.


    Finally, under arge piece of stone, he spotted a white cloth fragment¡ªpart of Lumine''s clothing.


    Despair gripped him. Though he hadn''t known Lumine and Paimon for long, he already considered them close friends. The thought of them perishing while aiding him against Dvalin was unbearable.


    "I''m sorry..." Lucas clenched the fabric tightly, his voice trembling. "I promised to help you find your brother."


    "So, if Lumine hadn''t died, you''d definitely help her search for her brother, no matter what?" Venti''s voice came from behind him.


    "Of course," Lucas replied without looking back, his tone resolute. "Even if I have to walk through fire or climb a mountain of spikes, I''d help her find him."


    "And if Paimon weren''t dead," another voice chimed in, one that sounded nothing like Venti. "Would you buy her lots of tasty treats and y with her every day?"


    Lucas froze. Spinning around, he found Lumine and Paimon standing there, perfectly unharmed, wearing peculiar smiles.


    "You... you''re okay?" Lucas stammered.


    "Yep," Lumine said, scratching her cheek sheepishly. "Venti told us to leave the tower earlier, so we did... But your words just now were really touching."


    "Paimon was moved too!" Paimon added, her expression exaggeratedly tearful. "But you have to keep your promises now¡ªahhh!"


    Before she could finish, Lucas grabbed her cheeks, squishing them like dough. "You dare y this kind of joke on me?"


    "We didn''t mean to!" Lumine said,ughing awkwardly. "The timing just didn''t feel right to interrupt you..."


    "This moment makes even me want topose a song," Venti added with a grin. "Come on, let''s head back. Captain Jean and the others are surely waiting for good news."


    "Good news isn''t something you need to deliver yourself."


    The calm voice startled them. Turning, they saw Diluc standing behind them. His expression remainedposed, though exhaustion showed in his posture.


    "The battle was so intense I could see it clearly from a distance," Diluc said.


    Though he could still move, it was evident he had expended much energy maintaining the mechanism that activated the tower''s barrier. He seemed to be running on sheer willpower.


    "Where are Captain Jean and E?" Lucas asked.


    "They stayed behind to sustain the mechanism and are likely resting now," Diluc replied, his lips curving into a rare smile. "Well done. You didn''t let me down. Now I can rest easy..."


    "Rest easy about what?" Lucas tilted his head.


    Diluc hesitated, swallowing the words <i>handing over the Dawn Winery to you</i>, before changing his tone. "About running the Dawn Winery smoothly."


    The timing wasn''t right¡ªhe could wait.


    "Speaking of the winery," Venti interjected, licking his lips. "I''ve helped a lot, haven''t I, Master Diluc? Shouldn''t I get a reward? Maybe lifetime free drinks?"


    "That''s not happening," Diluc said curtly before turning to Lucas. "You''ve earned a great reward. Take a few carts of the best wine when you return."


    "Hey!" Venti protested. "That''s tant favoritism!"


    Their lighthearted exchange brought smiles all around. Even Lucas felt a weight lift off his chest. With this matter resolved, he could prepare to return to Liyue.


    But before he could rx fully, his face suddenly darkened. He felt a murderous intent approaching rapidly.


    Almost simultaneously, a ck shadow streaked across the sky before crashing into the ground with a thunderous BOOM, leaving a deep crater.


    A girl stepped from the impact zone, d in ck and wearing a mask that covered the lower half of her face. Her rare ck-and-purple eyes gleamed coldly as she surveyed her surroundings.


    "Target confirmed: Retrieval target¡ªDvalin. Elimination target: All witnesses. Missionmencing immediately," she murmured.


    The unexpected intruder left everyone baffled, and her ominous words heightened their alertness.


    "Wait... this feels familiar..." Diluc muttered, his usuallyposed face betraying a rare expression of shock. "No... it can''t be. You were supposed to be..."


    "Diluc. Kill priority: High."


    The girl''s face remained emotionless as she raised her slender arm, which suddenly morphed into a massive ck dragon w. She swung it at Diluc with terrifying force.


    Normally, Diluc would easily dodge such an attack, but his earlier exertion left him drained. He stood frozen, unable to avoid the iing strike.


    Just as the w was about to rip through him, Lucas stepped in, catching the attack barehanded.


    His strength now rivaled that of Dvalin, far exceeding that of ordinary Vision users. Even so, the raw power of the strike pushed him back several meters.


    The earlier battle with Dvalin had left Lucas far from peak condition. Using Amos'' Bow had drained him considerably.


    And now, this new adversary was proving to be even more formidable than Dvalin. Facing two enemies of this caliber back-to-back pushed him to his limits.


    "Who are you?" Lucas demanded, his voice cold. "Why are you attacking us?"


    The girl offered no response, but her piercing gaze bore into Lucas. Her killing intent was undeniable, yet there was also a trace of sorrow in her eyes.


    A strange familiarity gnawed at Lucas. He was certain he''d encountered her before.


    Then, his eyes fell on the two ck horns protruding from her forehead.


    Dragon ws, dragon horns... and those ck-and-purple eyes.


    "It''s you!" Lucas eximed. "Show me your face!"


    Could it be.... Ursa!?


    Though the thought seemed absurd, Lucas couldn''t shake the idea. Somehow, this mysterious girl ovepped in his mind with the clumsy, perpetually hungry dragon from the simtor.

 Chapter 173: Villain Simulator, Ch 172

    <h4>Chapter 173: Viin Simtor, Ch 172</h4>


    However, the mask covered most of her face, and even though her gaze seemed familiar, it was still impossible to confirm her identity.


    The girl had no intention of giving Lucas a chance to approach. She leapt into the air, and her leg suddenly transformed into a powerful, muscr dragon limb, kicking ferociously toward Lucas on the ground.


    Even before the kicknded, Lucas felt a tremendous pressure in the air. He quickly sidestepped, and the girl''s figure shed past. Unable to stop her momentum, her kick shattered the stone wall behind him into rubble.


    This style ofbining draconic transformation with martial techniques was identical to Ursa''s.


    But now, the <strong>Blue-Eyes White Dragon</strong> was gravely injured, and Lumine and Paimon were not strong enough to help. It seemed only he and Venti working together could suppress her.


    "Venti!" Lucas shouted, "Hold her off for me!"


    "Already on it!"


    At some point, Venti had drawn a short bow. Though he had hesitated to fight Dvalin, he had no reason to hold back against this unexpected enemy.


    Wind-infused arrows shot toward the girl''s back, but just as they were about to hit, enormous wings unfolded from her back, effortlessly deflecting the projectiles.


    "Seriously?!" Lucasined. "You''re supposed to be a god!"


    "Hey, that''s uncalled for!" Venti replied, embarrassed. "What do you expect? I summoned Dvalin, climbed a tower¡ªI''m not that strong physically!"


    Venti frequently imed to be the weakest of the Seven Archons. While his words couldn''t always be trusted, one thing was clear: his stamina was indeedcking.


    "<strong>Gale de!</strong>"


    A blonde-haired knight suddenly descended from above, her sword drawing fierce gusts of wind as she thrust it at the ck-haired girl.


    But the girl merely flicked her wings, effortlessly batting both the knight and her sword away.


    "Jean!" Lucas rushed forward, catching her in his arms. "Don''t push yourself!"


    Even Diluc had struggled under these conditions; Jean, with less endurance, was in no position to fight.


    "I rested briefly," Jean said, nodding. Her face was pale, but her expression remained resolute. "I''ll be fine. No matter what happens, I will fight by your side!"


    Fight together?


    "Wait, that''s it!" Lucas eximed, a realization dawning. "Jean, let''s fuse!"


    "W-what?" Jean stammered, her face turning red. "F-fuse? Now?"


    Was he talking about the kind of "fusion" from romance novels?


    "Exactly!" Lucas dered, summoning a card into his hand. "<strong>Soul-Link Fusion!</strong>"


    <strong>[Fusion is fusion, but what''s with the Soul-Link nonsense?]</strong> the system muttered.


    Lucas was using a <strong>Fusion Card</strong>, a reward from the Golden Apple Archipgo event. Its effect allowed the merging of two beings.


    "It just sounds cooler!" Lucas replied.


    As he spoke, he and Jean were enveloped in a void. Around them were countless images, like antern show, disying memories from their respective lives.


    The process felt both instantaneous and eternal.


    When they reopened their eyes, their forms had merged into something new.


    Their fusion stood approximately 2.5 meters tall, with a lithe, elegant frame. It was d in gleaming silver armor, holding a one-handed sword, and long golden hair flowed from the gaps in its ornate helmet, radiating grandeur.


    Lucas had assumed that when humans fused, the result would look human, like in <i>Dragon Ball</i>. But this... this was something entirely different.


    "What... is this?" Jean''s voice came not aloud, but directly into Lucas''s mind.


    "There''s no time to exin," Lucas replied. "Let''s focus on beating her."


    "But I don''t know how to control this body..." Jean hesitated. "It feels like it''s me... but also not me."


    Lucas realized that while the fused body possessed immense power, it required both of them to operate it harmoniously.


    It was akin to piloting a Franxx from <i>Darling in the Franxx</i>, where two pilots needed perfect synchronization to control the machine.


    "Don''t overthink it," Lucas said. "You are me, and I am you."


    Jean calmed herself. A quick learner, she soon understood Lucas''s point. As their minds aligned, the fusion raised its sword with precision.


    This body wasn''t controlled by one consciousness¡ªit was driven by their perfectly united will.


    "Unknown entity... unable to analyze..." Ursa muttered. She halted her movements, her eye glowing faintly as it rotated like a lens.


    Meanwhile, in the <strong>Goth Grand Hotel</strong>, the Doctor lounged in her chair, rhythmically tapping her temple with her finger.


    To ensure her mission''s sess, she had established a visual link with Ursa, monitoring the battlefield and issuingmands in real time.


    Her original goal had been to annihte the Knights of Favonius and recover Dvalin as research material.


    But now, something unexpected had emerged.


    "So beautiful... absolutely magnificent," the Doctor whispered, captivated by the fusion''s form. "A true work of art. If I could obtain it, I could create the ultimatebat machine. Change of ns: capture this lifeform at all costs¡ªalive or dead."


    "Objective confirmed. Activating secondarybat mode." Ursa''s voice was cold as her body began to contort.


    She transformed into a half-human, half-dragon form, her power and speed significantly enhanced.


    Ursa charged at the fusion, striking with far greater ferocity than before.


    The fusion raised its sword to meet her. The sh of de and w echoed across the battlefield.


    Lucas and Jean''sbined skills flowed seamlessly, their individual techniques blending into something greater.


    Even so, the fusion''s sword struggled to pierce Ursa''s thick scales.


    "Lucas," Jean''s voice rang out in his mind. "Can we use elemental power in this form?"


    Unlike sword techniques, elemental abilities were unique to individuals. Jean wasn''t sure if the fusion body could harness such power.


    "Let''s try," Lucas replied. "There''s no difference between us now. If you can use it, I can too."


    Unbeknownst to Jean, Lucas''s <strong>Endless Tempest Talent</strong> granted him wind energy far purer than hers.


    "<strong>Fusion Gale de!</strong>"


    The fusion gripped its sword tightly, the de transforming into a spinning vortex of wind energy. It buzzed like a chainsaw as it shed at Ursa.


    The de tore into Ursa''s arm, leaving a deep gash.


    "Gah!" Ursa roared in pain.


    Ursa staggered back two steps, blood spurting from her injured arm.


    "Sorry..." Lucas muttered, feeling a twinge of guilt. "I promise I''ll heal you after this."


    Perhaps influenced by Lucas''s emotions, Jean hesitated as well and asked, "Do you know this... girl?"


    "I don''t know," Lucas replied honestly, "but I suspect she''s being controlled, just like Dvalin. Don''t let that worry you¡ªfight with all you''ve got and don''t hold back against the enemy."


    Though Lucas wanted to believe in a connection between this girl and Ursa, there was no question she was an enemy determined to eliminate them. He couldn''t afford to endanger others because of his own selfishness.


    "What are you waiting for?!" The Doctor''s voice rang out, hysterical. "Activate the thirdbat form! Even if it kills her, I want that thing brought to me!"


    "...Understood."


    Ursa, unable to resist the Doctor''s orders, reluctantly released the final seal on her body.


    Her form twisted and expanded once more, transforming into a colossal dragon cloaked in deep purple and ck scales. Even the Fusion Form seemed tiny inparison.


    "It''s her... no doubt about it..." Not far away, the still-recovering Diluc''s eyes burned with hatred. "The demon dragon, Ursa!"


    Not only Diluc, but Jean and Lucas also recognized Ursa''s true identity.


    Even without seeing her face, Lucas was intimately familiar with her true form.


    "Ursa!" Lucas called out loudly. "Stop! I''m not your enemy!"


    Though Lucas knew reality and the simtor were different, he still hoped his voice could reach some remnant of Ursa''s memories from another dimension.


    But Ursa, nearly consumed by madness, raised her massive ck ws and struck down at the Fusion Form with overwhelming force.


    "Yes! That''s it! Use everything you''ve got!" The Doctor, observing from afar, wore an ecstatic grin. "Show me just how far this little gem can go¡ªwhether it''s worth being reconfigured by me!"


    Ursa''s full dragon form elevated her power to a new level. While her original strength couldn''t match Dvalin''s, the Doctor''s modifications had made her far more formidable.


    Her ultimatebat form burned her life force in exchange for strength. At full capacity, she could approach a god-like threshold, if only briefly.


    The Fusion Form barely escaped from beneath her massive w, which struck like a falling mountain.


    "ROAR!"


    Before the Fusion Form could stabilize, the berserk dragonunched another attack. Lucas and Jean raised their sword in defense, but the spinning wind des generated by the weapon failed to prate Ursa''s reinforced scales.


    A deafening crash echoed as the Fusion Form was sent flying, smashing into a massive boulder and sinking into its surface.


    A mortal body would have been shattered entirely.


    Though not fatally injured, the impact nearly severed the link binding Lucas and Jean''s minds together.


    Ursa, relentless, leapt into the air and dove down again, her ws aiming to rip the Fusion Form apart.


    Just as her talons were about to strike, a thick wall of ice materialized in front of the Fusion Form, absorbing the blow.


    "We can use both our elemental powers simultaneously?" Jean realized, catching her breath. "If that''s the case, maybe our wind and ice elements canbine."


    "Yes, lets give it a try." Lucas said.


    Ursa, consumed by fury, mmed her ws repeatedly against the ice wall. Cracks began to form, and just as the wall shattered, a fierce storm of icy shards erupted, engulfing Ursapletely.


    "<strong>Fusion Blizzard!</strong>"


    Thisbined attack, born of wind and ice, unleashed countless razor-sharp shards in a relentless whirlwind.


    While each individual attack was minor, the sheer volume inflicted devastating cumtive damage. Moreover, the inherent slowing effect of ice magic drastically hindered Ursa''s movements.


    A perfect opening!


    With their minds in perfect sync, Lucas and Jean seized the opportunity. They aimed for Ursa''s exposed weak points, shing with their sword¡ªonly for Ursa to whirl around and bite down on the elemental de, shattering it into pieces.


    "More power! Give me everything you''ve got!" the Doctor shouted, trembling with excitement. "I want to see if they can survive her full-strength attack!"


    To the Doctor, Ursa was nothing more than a disposable tool. Her interest now was fully fixated on the Fusion Form, an unprecedented specimen ripe for experimentation.


    Ursa obeyed without hesitation. Opening her massive maw, she began charging a sphere of dark, malevolent energy.


    This attack resembled the Blue-Eyes White Dragon''s<strong> White Lightning</strong>, but it was faster, stronger, and more destructive. At such close range, the Fusion Form had no chance to dodge.


    Both Lucas and Jean knew there was no way an ice wall could block this attack.


    Ursa gave them no time to think. The ck beam sted forth, striking the Fusion Form directly.


    "Tsk..." The Doctor clicked her tongue in disappointment. "I thought they''d be tougher. Seems that''s their limit after all¡ªhuh?"


    Her words caught in her throat.


    A radiant sh of light tore through the ck beam, scattering it into fragments. When the light subsided, the Fusion Form now wielded a massive two-handed sword made entirely of pure light.


    This was the power of the <strong>Light Element</strong>.


    Though Lucas had only recently acquired this ability and couldn''t wield it proficiently, crafting weapons from elemental energy was a fundamental technique. And against Ursa''s dark, corrupted power, the light element held a natural advantage.


    Ursa''s dragon eyes widened slightly, but instead of resisting, she summoned all her remaining strength and let out a soul-wrenching cry:


    "Kill me!"


    ---

 Chapter 174: Villain Simulator, Ch 173

    <h4>Chapter 174: Viin Simtor, Ch 173</h4>


    In the simtor, the corrupted dragon Ursa endured a thousand years of imprisonment while waiting for Lucas. But now, faced with indefinite torment, she had reached her breaking point. Death was a release for her.


    The Fusion Form didn''t respond verbally; instead, the sword of light in its hands pierced through Ursa''s chest.


    The imprable ck scales on her body gave way like paper under the light de.


    However, the strike did not take her life. Instead, countless rays of light erupted from within her dark body, and when the light faded, she had reverted to her original form¡ªa fragile girl.


    At the same time, Lucas and Jean separated from the Fusion Form. Lucas immediately cradled Ursa in his arms and removed the mask covering her face. Upon seeing the scars on her pale cheeks, Jean''s face contorted with horror.


    Lucas, on the other hand, clenched his fists tightly, and the red haze of the <strong>Ring of Maniption</strong> began to swirl on his wrist.


    Her once-beautiful face was marred with wounds, and her lips bore clear puncture marks, evidence that they had been sewn shut at some point, likely to prevent her from biting anyone during her modifications.


    "It''s you... it really is you..." Despite her condition, Ursa''s frail face broke into a weak smile when she saw Lucas. "I''m so d... I finally found you again..."


    She remembers me?


    Though Lucas couldn''tprehend why, his heart ached. Seeing the lover who had once waited in silence for a millennium reduced to this state filled him with nothing but rage.


    "Don''t worry... You''ll be fine," Lucas murmured, trying to reassure her. But deep down, he knew the truth. The battle had drained her life force, her organs were gravely damaged, and saving her was next to impossible.


    "Tell me¡ªwho did this to you?" Lucas asked through gritted teeth. Though he had a strong suspicion, he needed confirmation.


    For the first time, a fire of vengeance burned within him, brighter than ever.


    "That person is..." Ursa began to whisper a name, but suddenly her eyes widened, her pupils dted, and all life left her body. The hand that had been clutching Lucas''s arm fell limply to her side.


    "Uneptable," the Doctor remarked casually from her distant location in the Goethe Grand Hotel, shaking her head. "Snitching is a no-no. Failed experiments should simply be disposed of."


    At the exact moment Ursa had tried to name her, the Doctor activated the self-destruct mechanism imnted within Ursa''s body, ending her life instantly.


    Naturally, with Ursa''s death, the shared vision link between the two was severed as well.


    The Doctor felt no regret over Ursa''s demise. Her interest had already shifted entirely to Lucas.


    The Fusion Form, the mysterious element beyond the seven, the power to defeat Stormterror¡ªeverything about him filled her with a twisted glee.


    "I''d love... to turn him into my own toy..." she murmured, her breath growing heavier as her fantasies took over.


    Lucas stared at Ursa''s lifeless body, unable to ept what had happened. To make matters worse, he hadn''t even heard the name of her tormentor.


    The others, unsure of the rtionship between Lucas and Ursa, remained silent, watching him struggle with his emotions.


    <strong>[Hey, don''t be so down...]</strong>


    Even the system, usually sarcastic, attempted to console him.


    "Leave me alone..." Lucas replied internally.


    <strong>[If you keep sulking, this girl''s body will start to rot.]</strong>


    "...Do you even hear yourself?" Lucas groaned.


    If the system had a physical form, he would''ve dragged it out and given it a beating.


    <strong>[I''m serious. If you keep wallowing, you might miss your chance to revive her.]</strong>


    "Revive?"


    Lucas froze, a flicker of hope reigniting within him. He suddenly remembered¡ªhe had a skill that could bring her back. "Right! How could I forget?"


    His abrupt shift from despair to joy startled everyone around him.


    "Are you okay?" Jean finally asked, concerned. "You''re not making sense. People¡ªor dragons¡ªcan''te back to life..."


    "Not necessarily." Lucas muttered under his breath.


    "What did you say?" Jean blinked in confusion.


    "Nothing!" Lucas quickly waved it off with a smile. "I just thought it was sad how she ended up like this. That''s all."


    "Lucas, you''re too kind..." Jean sighed. "This dragon caused countless invasions of Mondstadt. Her death was inevitable."


    "It''s just a shame I couldn''t finish her off myself..." Diluc approached, his expression conflicted as he gazed at Ursa''s corpse. "Father... you can finally rest in peace."


    It seemed clear that if he did revive her, it shouldn''t be done here.


    Regardless of what had happened in the simtor, in this reality, Ursa was an unrepentant viin with countless enemies. Her "death" might actually serve as a chance for redemption.


    "You''re right," Lucas said, lifting Ursa''s body. "With her death, her sins are forgiven. You all head back¡ªI''ll see to her burial."


    "Why go through so much trouble?" Diluc frowned. "Why not just burn her remains?"


    "No!" Lucas protested. "What if burning her pollutes the environment?"


    "Well, suit yourself," Jean said, though she suspected Lucas was hiding something. Thanks to their recent fusion, she had grown more attuned to his unspoken intentions. "Everyone''s exhausted. Let''s head back to recover."


    "Take care of Dvalin too," Venti said as they prepared to leave. Then, lowering his voice, he added, "And don''t do anything weird while she''s unconscious."


    "Who would do anything weird?!" Lucas snapped, exasperated. "She''s a dragon!"


    Wait... dragons? Both Kisara and Ursa were dragons, weren''t they?


    "Besides, isn''t she your familiar?" Lucas asked. "Why leave her with me?"


    "Eh~ I already released her," Venti replied breezily. "Now that she''s regained her mind, her future is her own choice. And besides... back then, she called you her master, not me."


    He overheard that?


    Of course, Venti wasn''t entirely altruistic¡ªhe just didn''t want the hassle. He could barely take care of himself, let alone a dragon.


    Once everyone left, Lucas moved both Dvalin and Ursa into the Serenity Pot.


    Raiden Mai, who had grown ustomed to her master bringing back strange girls, looked at Ursa''s lifeless body and raised an eyebrow.


    "This one''s beyond saving," she remarked, her tone t. "Shall I turn her into a puppet while she''s still fresh?"


    "Stop saying such horrifying things so casually..." Lucas groaned.


    "Just take care of Dvalin for now," Lucas said, handing the dragon over before carrying Ursa into a separate room. "And don''t let anyone disturb me, no matter what happens."


    Raiden Mai rarely showed emotion, but hearing his words, a faintlyplex expression flickered across her face.


    Lucas noticed the unusual expression on Raiden Mai''s face and asked, puzzled, "What''s wrong? Do you have any concerns?"


    "I just didn''t expect you to be interested in a corpse, Master," Raiden Mai said ndly. "But whatever you decide to do, I''ll support you. Should I fetch some slime mucus to use as a lubricant?"


    "That''s absolutely unnecessary!" Lucas retorted, his expression a mix of frustration and disbelief. "Just wait outside!"


    "As you wish," Raiden Mai replied with a nod, adding, "Also, Master, be mindful of the body''s stiffness to avoid getting stuck."


    <i>SLAM!</i>


    Raiden Mai''sment was met with a door mmed in exasperation.


    "Would you like an expander?" Mai called out from outside.


    "No!" Lucas''s despairing voice came through the closed door.


    Staring at Ursa''s lifeless body, Lucas couldn''t help but feel nervous.


    Though he had resurrected countless undead soldiers in the simtor as the "Doctor," this was his first attempt in real life.


    "Activate <strong>Resurrection</strong>."


    <strong>[Analyzing target forpatibility...]</strong>


    <strong>[Analysisplete: Target qualifies.]</strong>


    <strong>[Note: This skill has a lengthy cooldown. Confirm use on this target?]</strong>


    As expected, a skill as miraculous as reviving the dead came with numerous restrictions. While creating undead warriors wasn''t difficult, true resurrection was another matter entirely.


    Additionally, the skill was limited to recently deceased bodies. If the body were too damaged or the death too prolonged, resurrection would be impossible.


    cing his hand on Ursa''s body, Lucas watched as a soft glow emanated from his palm, gradually sinking into her.


    The wounds on Ursa''s body began to heal at a visible rate. Her once-paleplexion slowly regained its natural color.


    Finally, Ursa''s tightly closed eyelids fluttered, and momentster, she opened her eyes.


    The dark irises shimmered with life, and for the first time, Lucas saw the familiar glint of the ever-hungry dragon girl he hade to know.


    Ovee with joy, Lucas pulled her into a tight embrace. "You... you''re alive again!"


    But rather than sharing his excitement, Ursa pushed him away with a frown. "Who are you?"


    Her reaction left Lucas stunned.


    <strong>[Rx. She just revived. Her brain hasn''t fully recovered yet, so her memories are iplete.]</strong>


    "What should I do?" Lucas asked anxiously. "Will she ever remember me?"


    <strong>[Try doing something familiar that might jog her memory.]</strong>


    Something familiar? From their time together?


    Destroying Mondstadt together?


    No, a bit excessive.


    Traveling together?


    Feasible, but too time-consuming.


    Eating... <i>chicken together</i>?


    Well, that might work.


    "Ursa, listen to me," Lucas said seriously, gripping her shoulders. "We''re very important to each other. You''ve just forgotten for now."


    "Really?" Ursa tilted her head, a hint of trust in her eyes. "I haven''t read many books, so don''t lie to me."


    "I''d never lie to you," Lucas assured her, clearing his throat. "Do you want to remember me?"


    "Of course! If what you''re saying is true, then I really want to remember!" Ursa nodded eagerly. "But... how?"


    "The process might be a bit ufortable," Lucas warned. "But you have to promise not to bite me."


    "What if I can''t help it?" Ursa asked innocently.


    "Then... you can bite lightly," Lucas replied with a wry smile. "But definitely not in certain ces."


    "What ces?" Ursa asked curiously.


    "You''ll find out soon," Lucas said as he lightly traced his fingers along her cor. "What I''m about to do may seem strange to you."


    "What''s so strange about it?" Ursa said, giving him a look as though he were an idiot. "You just want to sleep with me, don''t you?"


    "Eh?" Lucas froze, his face flushing. "Aren''t you supposed to have amnesia?"


    "I lost my memory, not my mind," Ursa retorted, furrowing her brow. "Common sense like that doesn''t just disappear."


    But where had she learned this mon sense"? Ursa couldn''t quite recall.


    ---


    Author''s Note: Snu Snu


    Extra Chapter at 300 p.s

 Chapter 175: Villain Simulator, Ch 174 (R-18 Ursa)

    <h4>Chapter 175: Viin Simtor, Ch 174 (R-18 Ursa)</h4>


    Seeing Lucas fall silent, Ursa spoke up, "So... have you slept with me before?"


    Lucas''s face turned red. After a long pause, he nodded awkwardly.


    "Then go ahead," Ursa said straightforwardly. "Maybe while sleeping, I''ll start remembering things."


    "You know," Lucas scratched his cheek, "if you understand these things, you should also know... girls shouldn''t casually sleep with someone."


    "If you''ve already slept with me before, that means I acknowledged you as my man," Ursa said matter-of-factly. "I trust my past self. I want to remember what happened between us."


    Ursa, not being human,cked human notions of modesty or hesitation. She preferred directness.


    "Don''t you suspect I might be lying to you?" Lucas asked, trying to confirm.


    "If I don''t remember anything after we''re done," Ursa said with a serious expression, "I''ll eat you."


    "That''s not how it works!" Lucas eximed, halfughing and half-crying.


    "Ugh, you''re so annoying! Are you going to do it or not?" Ursa grabbed Lucas''s staff, her tone impatient. "Or... are you incapable?"


    Lucas''s eyes widened at Ursa''s boldness, for a man, there is no greater provocation. "Alright, alright," he said, his voice heavy with anticipation. "Just remember, you asked for this."


    He pushed Ursa down onto the bed. "I''ll prove myself through action. Consider this our third time."


    "Third time?" Ursa asked, puzzled. "We''ve only done it twice?"


    "No, I mean," Lucas grinned as he moved in, "this is the third ss of red wine."


    <strong>[R-18 Scene]</strong>


    Ursa smiled, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. Although she had no recollection of their past encounters, her body seemed to recognize his touch, responding with an eagerness that surprised even her.


    Lucas leaned in, capturing her lips in a passionate kiss. Ursa responded eagerly, her arms wrapping around his neck. Their tongues intertwined, exploring each other. Lucas''s hands roamed over her body, tracing the curves of her waist and hips. Ursa let out a soft moan, pressing herself against him. "More," she demanded against his lips.


    Lucas grinned, his fingers finding their way to her chest. He admired her perfect form, his thumbs brushing over her nipples, causing her to gasp. He leaned down, taking one into his mouth, swirling his tongue around the hardening peak before beginning to suck on it. Ursa arched her back, her hands gripping his hair. "Mmmm~," she moaned, her voice breathy.


    He moved to the other breast, giving it the same attention. Ursa squirmed beneath him, her legs wrapping around his waist. He could feel her heat pressing against him, driving him wild. Lucas trailed kisses down her stomach, his fingers brushing against her core. Ursa bucked her hips, a needy whimper escaping her lips.


    "You''re so wet," Lucas murmured. He slid a finger inside her, his thumb circling her clit. Ursa''s moans filled the room, her body writhing under his touch. "Mmm, please," she begged, her voice filled with need.


    Lucas took a moment to appreciate the sight before him. Ursa, her body flushed with desire, her eyes half-lidded with pleasure. He leaned down, his tongue recing his thumb, flicking against her sensitive nub.


    Ursa cried out, her hips bucking against his mouth. Lucas held her thighs firmly, keeping her in ce as he licked and sucked on her pussy, his finger moving in and out of her in a steady rhythm. Ursa''s moans grew louder, her body tensing as she neared her climax.


    Just as she was about to peak, Lucas pulled away, earning a frustrated groan from Ursa. "Patience," he murmured, a yful glint in his eyes. He positioned himself at her entrance, locking his gaze onto hers. "This might hurt a bit," he warned, recalling that this was her first time in this world.


    Ursa nodded, trusting himpletely. Lucas pushed in slowly, feeling her barrier. With one swift thrust, he broke through, burying his cock deep inside her. Ursa gasped, her nails digging into his back, her eyes watering slightly from the pain.


    Lucas stilled, allowing her time to adjust. He leaned down, kissing her gently on the lips, his thumbs brushing away her tears. "It''s okay," he murmured softly. "The pain will pass."


    Ursa nodded, her body gradually rxing around him. Lucas began to move, his hips pressing against hers in a slow, steady rhythm. Their bodies swayed together, the sounds of their moans and gasps filling the room.


    As Ursa''s body grew ustomed to his presence, her moans shifted from pain to pleasure. She began to move with him, her hips meeting his thrusts. Lucas quickened his pace, his body aching with need. Ursa''s body tightened, her inner walls gripping him. "I''m so close," she cried out, her voice breathless.


    Lucas increased his speed, feeling his own climax nearing. He leaned down, capturing her lips in a passionate kiss. Ursa''s body trembled, her moans vibrating against his mouth. With one final thrust, Ursa cried out his name, her body convulsing around him. The sight and sound of her pleasure sent Lucas spiraling into his own release, pulsing deep inside her.


    They copsed together, their bodies slick with sweat and their breathsing in uneven gasps. Lucas rolled away, pulling her into his arms. Ursa nestled against him like a kitten, her body still quaking with aftershocks.


    "That was... amazing," she whispered, her voice filled with awe.


    <strong>[Talent: <i>The First ss of Red Wine</i> activated. Reward: All attributes increased by 10%.]</strong>


    Unlike in the simtor, this time the reward from Ursa''s "first ss of red wine" was noticeably weaker.


    Was it because the system had adjusted the reward to avoid exploiting Ursa''s regenerating ability?


    No, that didn''t make sense. In this timeline, this was technically Ursa''s first experience.


    Lucas could only conclude that this was the system''s way of limiting his growth.


    "Hah..."


    Lucas exhaled deeply.


    Thankfully, his enhanced physique was far beyond an ordinary human''s; otherwise, satisfying this voracious dragon would have been impossible.


    "Well?" he asked after a few minutes of rest. "Did you remember anything?"


    "I think... I remember a little," Ursa said, her face slightly flushed as she stared at the ceiling. "I feel like we met in a cave."


    "That''s right!" Lucas sat up excitedly. "It was yourir. Our first meeting was there! What about after that?"


    "I forgot," Ursa saidzily, stretching. Her gaze shifted evasively. "Maybe... one time isn''t enough."


    "Really?" Lucas mused, rubbing his chin. "So, do we need a few more ''treatments''?"


    "Maybe," Ursa nodded, her voice unsure. "If I can remember a little each time, after a few hundred tries, I should recall everything."


    "A few hundred? I''d be a dried husk by then," Lucas groaned, feeling a phantom ache somewhere. "It''s fine. With time, you''ll remember everything."


    "Time?" Ursa''s eyes lit up. "Does that mean we can stay together forever?"


    "Of course," Lucas reassured her. "This world belongs to me. You can stay as long as you like."


    "Then let''s continue!" Ursa eximed, pinning Lucas down with her tail wagging like an eager puppy. "I want to remember everything as soon as possible!"


    "Wait, hold on¡ª"


    Before he could finish, Ursa grinned, her body already moving against his. She leaned down, capturing his lips in a passionate kiss. She trailed kisses down his jaw, his neck, his chest, her hands exploring his body.


    She positioned herself above him, slowly lowering herself onto his length. They both moaned as their bodies joined once again. Ursa began to move, her hips rolling against his. Lucas held her hips, meeting her thrusts with his own.


    Their bodies moved in perfect harmony, their moans and gasps filling the room. The sound of their flesh meeting was intoxicating....


    <strong>[R-18 Ends]</strong>


    It was unclear how much time had passed, but Lucas eventually staggered out of Ursa''s room, holding his waist.


    After being both physically and emotionally sated, the young dragon girl finally fell into a deep slumber.


    That was fine; she needed the rest after everything she had endured.


    While it was true that Ursa hadmitted many wrongs, her death should have absolved her of those sins.


    To avoid upsetting her, Lucas didn''t press for the name of the person who had transformed her into a killing machine. Besides, he already had a good idea of who was responsible.


    A little deduction made it clear: on Teyvat, while there were many viins, the ones most likely to target the Knights of Favonius were the Abyss Order and the Fatui.


    Among those, only the Fatui''s Harbinger <i>The Doctor</i> had both the connection to Ursa and the capability to modify a creature of her caliber.


    Having once yed the role of "The Doctor" in the simtor, Lucas could somewhat understand the mindset of his counterpart.


    And yet, if the Doctor was truly behind this, Lucas wouldn''t let him off easily.


    "Master."


    Lucas stepped out of the room to find Raiden Mai waiting outside. She stared at him with a neutral expression, her brow slightly furrowed. "I thought I heard someone else''s voice earlier."


    "Yes," Lucas replied with a smile. "Ursa is alive again."


    "Revived?" Raiden Mai tilted her head, her expression skeptical.


    Lines of exasperation appeared on Lucas''s forehead. "Not in <i>that</i> way..."


    "I''ve analyzed your DNA before, Master," Mai said seriously, tapping her chin. "It contains potent regenerative factors. I suspected it could aid in healing injuries, but I never imagined it could revive the dead."


    "Leaving aside whether that''s possible," Lucas said, confused. "Where did you even get my DNA?"


    "I extracted it from Kisara''s body¡ªwith her permission, of course," Mai exined, as though this were perfectly normal. "The process was challenging. To avoid damaging her internal organs, I used a dropper to collect minute traces from the inner walls."


    The brief exnation conjured an overly vivid mental image for Lucas.


    "If possible," Mai continued earnestly, "I''d like you to provide a purer sample for future research."


    "We''ll talk about thatter," Lucas replied, both amused and flustered. "It''s not that I don''t want to help¡ªI just don''t have much to spare right now."


    "I see..." For once, Mai''s expression showed disappointment¡ªa rare sight that caught Lucas off guard.


    "Do you really want it that badly?" Lucas asked gently.


    "I want to better understand your body," Mai replied. "If I can, I might be able to assist you more effectively."


    Touched by her sincerity, Lucas nodded. "Alright. Next time I have some to spare, I''ll let you know."


    "To prevent contamination, please allow me to collect it directly," Mai said, smiling faintly.


    Lucas could only stare at her, unsure of what to make of the request.


    ----


    Author''s Note: Mai is love...


    Don''t you want to see the doctor being tortured? ?? It''ll be in Chapter 176


    Next extra Chapter at 600 p.s.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!