HLS Vol 2. 50-54 + EX1 (Patreon)

Chapter 50: Kiana's Mutual Torture - Otto Must Die!

Meanwhile, on the Helios, inside the medical ward.

Tesla entered, looked at Kiana resting on the hospital bed, and spoke to her.

“Nice to meet you, Kiana. Mei probably mentioned us to you, but let me introduce myself anyway.”

“I am Frederica Nikola Tesla, and this is Liesel Albert Einstein. We are both members of the Anti-Entropy organization, currently cooperating with the Far East branch.”

Kiana stood up from the bed, looked at Tesla and the virtual Einstein, and nodded.

“Yes, I know. Mei told me everything that happened in these past four months.”

“By the way, Mei didn’t come with you... Is she not here?”

Kiana asked, a look of confusion in her eyes.

Tesla answered truthfully.

“She went out on business and won’t be back for a while.”

Hearing this, Kiana paused for a moment, then lowered her hand from her head and said softly.

“Oh, I see. Then I don’t need to worry anymore.”

With a sigh, Kiana looked like a different person.

Looking into Tesla’s red eyes, she spoke calmly.

“My condition isn’t good, is it?”

Tesla’s eyes flashed with surprise upon hearing Kiana’s words, but she remained silent.

Kiana shook her head and continued speaking to Tesla.

“Don’t hide it from me. I know my body better than anyone.”

“At first, I just felt a little sluggish, but then I couldn’t feel the pain anymore. Now, I keep getting random injuries all over my body, and I don’t know where they come from.”

Hearing Kiana’s words, Einstein was silent for a moment, then comforted Kiana.

“Kiana, the Hyperion is en route to Nagazora City. We will immediately transfer you to a safe base. Anti-Entropy will do everything in its power to protect you and buy you more time.”

Hearing Einstein’s words, Kiana nodded, her voice steady as she replied.

“I understand. I trust you.”

“But before that, there’s one more thing I need to do.”

Hearing Kiana’s words, Tesla looked puzzled.

“What is it?”

Kiana watched as Tesla’s expression grew increasingly serious.

“Nagazora City is about to face a major crisis.”

“When I first arrived here, I had this feeling. The concentration of Honkai energy in the water is frighteningly high, and the Honkai beasts are much more active than elsewhere.”

“Two days have passed, the sea level is still rising, and there are even more enemies... It’s like something big is about to happen.”

Hearing Kiana’s words, Einstein nodded without surprise, replying to Kiana.

“Tesla Doctor already mentioned this in the report,” Tesla added.

Tesla chimed in.

“Yes, based on two days of on-site investigation, it’s confirmed that the Honkai phenomenon in Nagazora City is intensifying. This place already had a large amount of Honkai energy accumulated due to the Third Eruption, but now the situation is worsening.”

“At first, I thought these changes were influenced by the Herrscher of the Void, but it seems that’s not the case.”

Listening to Tesla’s analysis, Kiana shook her head.

“It’s not me, but something else that caused the anomaly in Nagazora City.”

“The concentration of Honkai energy is still rising, and it’s on the verge of exploding. If left unchecked, the consequences will be unimaginable.”

Kiana’s heavy voice echoed in the infirmary, and a sense of urgency rose in all three of them.

Einstein continued, following Kiana’s lead.

“You’re right. Anti-Entropy has already prepared rescue forces, and they will act immediately once Nagazora City is close to an outbreak. Although the Far East is under Schicksal’s jurisdiction, we will not stand idly by.”

Kiana, noticing the expressions on the two doctors’ faces, blinked and said resolutely,

“Doctors, I have another way to stop this disaster.”

“I can absorb all the Honkai energy of Nagazora City into my body before the disaster strikes, using the Herrscher of the Void’s abilities.”

...

“Cat Cat: I actually guessed what Kiana was planning to do. Sure enough, this is what Kiana would do now.”

"Don't Want to Go to Work: I don't know why, but Kiana's behavior is really upsetting and makes me feel terrible. When did the world have to be saved by a 16-year-old girl?"

"Dudu: Honkai in Nagazora City is probably another World Serpent thing."

"Drunken Warrior: Judging from Raven and Gray Serpent's conversation earlier, it's highly likely World Serpent was behind it."

"The Number One Cutest in the World: What exactly is their purpose? Is it for Mei, or something else? It's despicable. Those rats hiding in the shadows are really annoying."

"Nun: God won't let a young girl save the world, God won't."

"Miss Elf: It's impossible that Kevin just wants to recruit Mei because she looks like Mei. Of course, that doesn't fit Kevin's character."

"Don't Want to Take the Exam: Don't even think about making a move on Mei. Anyone with other ideas, I'll kill them all!"

Ignoring the confusion in the comments section, I returned to the story.

...

Kiana's words reached the ears of the two doctors.

Tesla, one hand on her hip, looked completely bewildered and shouted at Kiana, interrupting her before she could continue.

"Hey! Do you know what you're saying?"

Einstein, standing nearby, looked into Kiana’s azure eyes and could tell she wasn’t joking. She spoke softly.

“Kiana, we won’t let you do that—you can no longer use Herrscher’s power.”

“The problems of Nagazora City will be handled by Anti-Entropy. Please trust us.”

Sensing Einstein’s kindness and determination, Kiana didn’t argue but spoke softly to her.

“Einstein, you misunderstood me.”

“I also hope everything goes smoothly. Everyone hopes to weather this crisis unscathed.”

“But... I mean, what if things get out of control...”

“I hope you can let me do what I can.”

Kiana’s gaze hardened, becoming unyielding.

Seeing this, Einstein didn’t say anything more, but remained silent for a moment before changing the subject.

“Let’s end this discussion here. Once the Hyperion arrives in Nagazora City, I will make a judgment based on the specific situation.”

“Is there anything else you’d like to know?”

Seeing Einstein change the subject, Kiana continued.

“I have one last request.”

Einstein saw this.

“Please speak.”

Kiana took a deep breath, met the gazes of the two doctors, and slowly spoke.

“After leaving here, I will follow your arrangements. I will cooperate with containment and treatment. I know I’m a ticking time bomb; isolation in a sparsely populated area is the safest option.”

“Therefore, I hope everyone in the Far East Branch can stay away from all of this.”

“I hope they don’t come near me until the Herrscher of the Void issue is completely resolved.”

Hearing this, Tesla couldn’t help but interrupt, speaking to Kiana.

“You know they will always be by your side.”

Kiana’s eyes welled with sorrow and pain, but she still spoke to the two of them.

“Yes, I know that very well, which is why I’m asking you this. I can’t let them be in such danger.”

After speaking, Kiana shifted her gaze to a deserted corner.

“In Arc City, when I first saw Mei, I couldn’t believe my eyes. She had changed so much. She looked so haggard and exhausted. Although she tried to act like nothing was wrong, I could tell at a glance.”

“She finally found companions, a place to belong, and everything she had lost but desperately longed for at St. Freya College. She had finally emerged from the shadows of the past... but I, with my own hands, destroyed it all.”

“Countless cold nights, countless nightmares. I watched her chest being torn apart piece by piece, watched the blood-stained jewel fall into my hands, watched her lose her breath, slowly collapsing into a pool of blood...”

“I... I...”

Kiana’s voice trembled as she spoke, breaking with sobs, tears streaming uncontrollably down her face.

Seeing Kiana so heartbroken, Tesla wanted to comfort her, but she wasn’t good at comforting others, so she could only say to Kiana,

“It was all the Herrscher of the Void’s doing. It wasn’t your fault... They never blamed you.”

Kiana lowered her head, tears dripping onto her feet, utterly sorrowful.

“I know, and that’s precisely why it’s so unbearable!”

“Even after what happened, they still believed in me, they still considered me a comrade, they’ve been waiting for me to come back.”

Kiana said these words through tears.

“So... if I become that monster again, they definitely won’t abandon me. They will protect me at all costs.”

“Then how many people who care about me and cherish me will I kill?”

At this point, Kiana paused for a moment, then promised the two doctors, and also promised herself.

“I will absolutely not let that happen again!”

Tesla and Einstein were silent. They truly felt that the girl before them had grown, grown in a way that was heartbreaking, heartbreaking.

But Kiana’s words were not yet finished.

Kiana lowered her head, her eyes filled with sorrow.

“This is between Sirin and me, and I have to put an end to it with her. But I don’t want them to get involved in all this again.”

“I don’t want... to see anyone around me get hurt again.”

Unbeknownst to Kiana, while she was pouring out her heart to the two doctors...

Outside the infirmary, Mei leaned against the door, head bowed, listening intently to everything Kiana said.

She remained silent, only a single, crystal-clear tear tracing a path down her cheek.

Falling onto the cold floor.

...

“Cat Cat: Ahhh, I can’t take it! Can’t you stop being so cruel? Can’t we have some sweet moments? This is killing me!”

Clutching a can of food, Pardo watched Kiana’s inner monologue with tears streaming down her face.

Then, she buried her face in the can again.

Pardo thought she had developed a considerable tolerance for heartbreak after watching so many heart-wrenching scenes in this live stream.

But unexpectedly, each layer of cruelty was more intense than the last!

"Miss Elf: Mei and Kiana are torturing each other, I'm speechless. This kind of plot is despairing!"

Elysia was also in tears. Being a sensitive and beautiful girl, she couldn’t bear such a tragic storyline.

"Don't Want to Go to Work: Mei heard everything Kiana said. Looks like Mei has no choice but to go to World Serpent. They just met, and now they have to part. This game is really tragic enough! If this is a game, how much does this developer hate society?"

"The Number One Cutest in the World: Kiana, Mei, sigh."

"Drunken Warrior: You two."

"Dr. Lobsterhead: They take turns torturing each other repeatedly. Damn it, I want to swear again."

Remembering the ban last time, Tesla held back this time.

Kiana and Mei, who saw this scene, immediately thought of protecting each other and preventing the plot from repeating itself!

Seeing the comments section, Xiyue could feel the emotions of Pardo and the others.

But what could she do? This was just the beginning.

The real torture was yet to come.

miHoYo's style of torture is something that will leave you numb.

While cursing miHoYo in her mind, Xiyue kept her eyes on the live stream.

Click to the next chapter.

Main Story 17 When Thunder Pierces the Night Sky - 02.

As the scene of the domestic violence drew closer, a strange pang of heartache welled up in Xiyue's heart. After the domestic violence in the story, she'd find a way to make Kiana experience it for real.

Even if it’s impossible in reality, it must happen in her dreams!

A Kiana who hasn’t experienced domestic violence is incomplete!

Back to the story.

“What is Honkai?”

For a long time, Otto relentlessly searched for the answer to this question.

He devoted five centuries to this. His research spanned two eras, and his understanding of Honkai was unparalleled among the seven billion life forms on Earth.

The more he knew...

The less he knew.

Ultimately, Otto discovered he understood nothing about Honkai—where did it come from, and where was it going?

What force drove it, and what outcome did it gravitate toward?

Why was it born, why did it end, why did it continue, why did it stagnate, why did it erupt, why did it fall silent?

Was it a personified being, or some ancient, enduring rule?

Questions, questions, questions surged like a raging tide, engulfing Otto, sweeping him away, pushing him into the darkest, most terrifying abyss—the abyss called the Unknown.

He wanted to move forward, but didn’t know where the path led.

He wanted to set out, but didn’t know where the end was.

He searched, he doubted, he failed, he was lost.

He was troubled, he experimented, he suffered, he was anxious.

Five hundred years have passed, and the hypotheses he proposed are countless, the conjectures he rejected immeasurable. One answer after another surfaced in his mind, arranged, transformed, and combined, forming blueprints, scrolls of paintings, torn apart and reassembled, reassembled and torn apart again...

In this cyclical process, a hazy phantom gradually took shape.

At this point in the narration, Otto’s voice slowly rose.

“Now, let’s imagine a tree, a tree of imaginary numbers.”

“There is a gigantic tree, its tip invisible, its branches obscuring the sky. Beneath it lies a vast sea, its depth unfathomable, its boundaries untouchable.”

“In this world, there is only the tree and the sea, and so they begin an endless competition.”

“The sea expands and grows ever stronger, the tree constantly taking root and growing. One seeks to engulf the other, the other to absorb it. Nourished by the sea, the tree endures countless years, branching out into countless limbs, bearing countless flowers and leaves.”

“In this endless process, in some insignificant corner, among a newly sprouted leaf, a civilization called humanity was born.”

Meanwhile, in reality, Mei and Mobius, without prior arrangement, both turned their gaze to the live stream, listening to Otto’s new ideas.

They listened, their minds constantly racing. The more they thought, the clearer their thoughts became, and the brighter their eyes grew.

And the story continued.

The Tree of Imaginary Numbers—the moment Otto touched upon this term, he completed his Eureka. The chaos suddenly became orderly, and he saw a winding path stretching out from the darkness.

He began to run along the path, and the further he went, the brighter the light in his eyes became.

Unconsciously, he arrived at the end of science.

He knew that the research of his predecessors had come this far, but he would follow the path they had left behind, leaping across an even darker, more unseen abyss.

Otto’s voice continued to echo.

“Imagine! Imaginary numbers are the starting point of humanity, the beginning of civilization.”

“Time flows along the trunk of the Tree of Imaginary Numbers, branching out into infinite worlds like a canopy. Each branch is a form of civilization’s existence. Each flower and leaf is its present and past, left behind in the dimension of time.”

“However, the development of the world needs constraints. In the competition with the Sea of Quanta, the direction of the branches’ growth is constantly filtered and corrected by a mechanism.”

“A naturally formed mechanism, a mechanism originating from imaginary numbers, a mechanism of nurturing and nourishing, a mechanism of baptism and elimination.”

“For humanity, that is the calamity called Honkai.”

Otto’s voice paused for a moment, then continued.

"That's right, that's right, humanity can never escape Honkai."

"Humanity can only move forward, because the Tree of Imaginary Numbers must grow. Otherwise, we will wither away like those failed worlds, becoming just another bubble in the Sea of Quanta."

"To achieve lasting peace, humanity must return to the beginning of civilization, return to the Imaginary Numbers."

"And the answer I seek must lie within the Tree of Imaginary Numbers."

In the 559th winter of his life, Otto found the path to truth.

He explored the Sea of Quanta, surveyed the Asia-Pacific anchor point, searched for the creations of imaginary numbers, and acquired the colossal Divine Key. He experienced setbacks, encountered obstacles, fell into predicaments, basked in failure, and reaped countless rewards of the impossible.

But Otto didn’t need to know the impossible.

Because he made a decision, because it had to be possible—Otto Apocalypse, to ascend the Tree of Imaginary Numbers.

...

“Don't Want to Take the Exam: I don't understand, I don't understand at all, my head is about to explode. What is Otto even talking about?!”

“Cat Cat: I don't understand, but it feels like a crazy plan.”

“Beautiful Snake: Climbing the Imaginary Tree, hahaha. This Otto is indeed the most outstanding and the craziest person in current civilization.”

Mobius thought she was crazy enough, but seeing Otto’s plan, she felt like a small fry compared to a big fish.

“Miss Elf: I don't understand what he means. Can someone explain it simply?”

“Don't Want to Go to Work: I don't understand.”

“The Number One Cutest in the World: I don't understand either.”

“Drunken Warrior: I'm just a warrior.”

Although Himeko is a top student, she can understand a lot of what Otto is saying, but she can’t do anything about it.

“Research Girl: This is a crazy but great plan. What does Otto really want for this?”

Mei was very curious.

Seeing everyone’s confusion, Xiyue didn’t know how to begin. To explain, she first needed to understand.

She was just a gamer who loved collecting waifus.

Who knew what Otto meant?

In her past life, when she experienced the storyline, she only thought it was amazing, and that was it.

Besides, back then, she only knew one thing: everything Otto did was for Kallen.

A true god of pure love!

After a moment of random thoughts, she returned to the story.

The several-minute-long narration ended, and the scene returned to Otto and Kevin’s conversation. Otto looked at Kevin and smiled.

“I’m glad this meeting achieved the perfect result. Let’s complete the beacon handover as soon as possible. What are your requirements regarding the time and place?”

Kevin looked at the man before him, still calm.

“It’s up to you.”

Hearing this, Otto couldn’t help but say,

“Hmm... Let me think. I don’t want to wait any longer. I want it to prove its worth immediately. Activating the Second Divine Key requires Honkai energy, a large amount of Honkai energy... Ah, I’ve got it! There’s a perfect location right now—Nagazora City in the Far East.”

Hearing this, Kevin was slightly surprised.

“That’s the site of the Third Eruption.”

Otto nodded and continued.

“That’s right! Three years ago, it left behind a singularity where it encountered the Imaginary Tree. Even though the Third Herrscher is asleep, Honkai energy continues to be released from the singularity.”

“When amplified by the catalyst of the Eruption, it will reach its critical point.”

“Ah, what a perfect coincidence! In three days, Schicksal will transfer the Cosmic Juggernaut to Nagazora City. Upon receiving the beacon, I will begin the first experiment.”

The white-haired man said nothing more, stood up, and left.

With each step he took, the golden light enveloping the world began to dim and dissipate.

Seeing this, Otto’s smile remained unchanged as he softly spoke to Kevin’s retreating figure.

“Oh dear, leaving already? What a pity. I wanted to raise a glass with you in celebration.”

“Kevin Kaslana, I believe this meeting today holds profound significance for you, for me, and for the entire world.”

“A toast to the union of Schicksal and the Serpent.”

......

“Don't Want to Take the Exam: Ugh, I can’t take it! No matter what, Otto must die!!!”

---

Chapter 51: Mei Meets the Parents—No, I Mean, the Ancestors!

“Miss Elf: I thought it was World Serpent, but it turns out it was Otto. What is Otto trying to do?! He seems to be getting crazier and crazier!”

“Dr. Lobsterhead: He’s always been this crazy. Nobody knows what this guy is up to.”

“Cat Cat: I don’t understand why Kevin chose to cooperate with him either.”

“Drunken Warrior: Otto doesn’t care about World Serpent’s philosophy, and besides, World Serpent has what he needs. Given Otto’s ruthless methods for achieving his goals, this is something he’s capable of doing.”

“Don’t Want to Go to Work: Otto, I advise you to be kind!”

“The Number One Cutest in the World: .......”

Theresa’s expression was extremely complicated. Seeing this plot, she also saw her future self. She was increasingly unsure how to face him.

She realized that after living all these years, she didn’t understand her grandfather at all.

Looking at the group photo in the office and seeing Otto looking at her with doting eyes in the picture, Theresa murmured absentmindedly.

“Grandpa, what exactly do you want to do?”

Seeing this, Xiyue realized she had already expressed her opinion of Otto many times and didn’t want to say anything more.

All she could say was that the dead Otto was the best Otto.

Otto could only die; he had to die.

Not only for others, but also for himself.

It was necessary.

More than anything, Xiyue was currently more concerned about the impending Bell Pepper knife!

That was the key point.

The focus returned to the plot.

The scene shifted back to Kiana’s heart-to-heart talk with the two Doctors on the Helios.

The conversation had ended, and Kiana was resting again.

Tesla, emerging from the infirmary, saw Mei and exclaimed in slight surprise.

“Oh, Mei, you’re back.”

Mei nodded to Tesla, her expression unchanged.

“Yeah, I just got back. I was worried about the dangers in the city, so I gave Sora a ride. It took a while.”

“Is Kiana still in the infirmary?”

Tesla’s eyes flickered with unease at Mei’s words, but remembering her promise to Kiana, she answered without changing her expression.

“Yes, she just had another check-up. The situation is still the same, so let her rest.”

“The Hyperion will arrive soon, and we can leave here soon.”

Mei pretended not to know anything as Tesla spoke, simply saying to her.

“Kiana hasn’t eaten anything since she woke up. She must be hungry. I’ll go to the kitchen and see if there’s anything she can eat.”

Tesla paused instinctively at Mei’s words and called out to her.

“Mei, wait a minute…”

Hearing this, Mei stopped and looked at Tesla with a puzzled expression.

“Ah, what’s wrong?”

With her hands on her hips, Tesla slowly spoke to Mei.

“Mophead is such a serious person, always sticking to facts and reason. It’s a good thing as a researcher, but it can be a bit rigid in everyday life.”

“Don’t take what she said to heart.”

Hearing Tesla’s words, Mei shook her head and replied.

“It’s alright, Doctor Tesla. I’m fine.”

“I’ve spent four months with Anti-Entropy, and I know you are all excellent scientists who will surely make the most reasonable judgment. I’m very grateful that you were willing to tell me the facts.”

Tesla sighed upon hearing this.

“I know you’re feeling very bad. We will try our best to find a solution.”

Mei listened to Tesla’s words, recalled Kiana’s words earlier, and also remembered the riddle Raven had told her. She remained silent for a moment. Finally, she smiled at Tesla and thanked her.

“Thank you.”

Then Mei went into the kitchen, prepared the meal, and went into the infirmary.

As soon as she stepped into the room, Kiana cheerfully greeted her, calling out happily.

“Mei, you’re back?”

Looking at Kiana, who seemed just like before, Mei knew it was all a facade. A pang of pain shot through her heart, but she forced a smile, suppressing her sorrow.

“Hm, I thought you must be hungry, so I made something to eat.”

Then Kiana’s gaze fell on Mei, and she exclaimed with delight.

“Wow, it’s a curry Mei made!!!”

Looking at the joyful Kiana before her, Mei said softly. “Have this to fill your stomach first. Is there anything else you’d like to eat? I’ll go prepare it.”

Before Mei could finish speaking, Kiana straightened up, grabbed the plate, and began wolfing down her food, mumbling between bites.

“Ah... so... delicious! How can it be so delicious!”

Watching Kiana devour her food, Mei felt a pang of sadness instead of joy, but she still forced a smile.

“Eat slowly. There’s plenty of rice. Don’t choke.”

In no time, the entire plate of curry was devoured.

Kiana hugged her stomach, satisfied.

“I’m full!”

Watching Kiana’s actions, Mei said with a smile.

“So four months have passed, and your appetite and eating habits haven’t changed at all.”

...

“Miss Elf: Kiana has lost her sense of taste at this point, which means Kiana can’t taste anything at all...”

“Cat Cat: I don’t want to watch anymore. Mei knows everything, but she has to pretend she doesn’t. And Kiana knows everything, but she also has to put on this act. It’s so heartbreaking to watch.”

“Don’t Want to Go to Work: Sigh, forcing a smile. Can we skip this part? I’m too old to watch such sad scenes.”

“The Number One Cutest in the World: These two idiots, is there really no way out?”

“Dr. Lobsterhead: Right now, maybe only World Serpent has a solution.”

...

Back to the story.

Kiana listened to Mei’s words, shook her head, and confided in Mei.

“Stop talking! I haven’t eaten properly lately.”

“It’s been so long since I’ve tasted anything so delightful, so nostalgic...”

“Phew—this refreshing feeling, this perfect spiciness, Mei’s cooking is definitely my favorite!”

“Cook: Bell peppers aren’t spicy...”

Mei, in the story, paused, stunned by Kiana’s words.

Looking at Kiana’s smiling face, her heart ached more and more. Forcing back her sorrow, she spoke stiffly and unnaturally.

“...I’m glad you like it. I was worried it might be too spicy.”

Oblivious to Mei’s unease, Kiana shook her head hastily.

“No, no! The spiciness is just right. I sweat while eating. It’s so comfortable. I love it.”

Mei’s hands trembled as she listened. To prevent Kiana from noticing, she poured Kiana a glass of water and handed it to her.

“Hm, have some water.”

Kiana took the glass, drank it all in one gulp, and lay down contentedly.

Looking at the satisfied Kiana, Mei’s eyes were filled with deep sorrow, but she spoke to Kiana in a normal tone.

“The Doctor said that the Hyperion will be sending you to the Anti-Entropy base for examination. You need to cooperate and be a good girl; they are trustworthy people.”

Kiana nodded quickly upon hearing Mei’s words.

“Okay, okay. Don’t worry, Mei, everything will be fine.”

Mei nodded upon hearing this.

“Yes, Kiana, you’ll get better.”

“You will... get better.”

Mei said this to Kiana, but it also appears like she was saying it to herself.

Soon, Mei continued speaking to Kiana.

“I’ll go wash the dishes; you rest a little longer.”

Kiana nodded emphatically.

“Okay~”

Mei picked up the plate, went out, and closed the door.

Then she leaned against the door, head down.

Click

The water trickled down Mei’s fingertips, fell, shattered, and disappeared into a small whirlpool, emitting a low, sobbing sound.

She went to the kitchen.

She dried the plate, preparing to put it back in the cupboard, but accidentally bumped into a wooden bowl beside it. A few small things fell to the floor—leftover bell peppers from making curry.

Mei stared at the bell peppers, silent.

“Cat Cat: Waaaaah, you’ve killed me! Another twist, this game has no heart!”

“Nun: The intense Honkai energy has already robbed her of her sense of taste. But for Mei, she still... sigh.”

“Driver’s License Revoked: Idiot, Mei-neechan...”

“Don’t Want to Take the Exam: Don’t panic, reality won’t repeat itself. I won’t let Mei be sad again!”

“Cook: You better take good care of yourself, okay!”

“Don’t Want to Take the Exam: Okay, okay!”

“The Number One Cutest in the World: There’s still a chance, there’s still a possibility.”

“Dudu: Change it!”

Dudu looked at the Overseer’s command in her hand, gazing into the distance, and murmured.

“If I go, will World Serpent’s plan still succeed?”

At the same time, Raven received a message from Tianwu. Looking at the communicator in her hand, Raven smiled slightly.

“Tianwu, I’m entrusting this important matter to you.”

“My salary isn’t enough to make me risk my life.”

Having not lost the savings from buying the island, and having gained a better understanding of Kiana and the others through the livestream, Raven was no longer the crazed, murderous figure she was in the original storyline.

She was starting to regain her composure.

After all, her savings were still there, enough for her and the children to live comfortably for a long, long time.

As for Theresa, to mislead Schicksal, she didn’t go to Arc City, but instead went to The Deep to save Welt, casually granting Bronya the Herrscher of Reason ability.

Otto wasn’t surprised by Kiana’s escape.

In his plan, Kiana was supposed to do this. Although there was a slight mishap, it didn’t affect the overall situation.

The plan was still under his control.

The focus now was on the experiment.

However, to her slight surprise, Durandal volunteered to go to Arc City to investigate Schicksal’s medical situation.

Of course, these are all unimportant matters.

Back to the plot.

Tick-tock, tick-tock... the agreed two hours are almost up.

Mei walked out of the kitchen. The hallway was quiet; no one was there, only the lonely flicker of the infirmary light at the far end.

Mei remained silent for a long time, tears streaming down her face as she murmured,

“Idiot...”

She turned and walked away into the darkness.

“Bell pepper curry, how could it be spicy...”

Then Mei left the transport ship and headed toward the location Raven had arranged.

“This is the place Raven mentioned...”

But Raven wasn’t there. Mei asked, puzzled.

Looking at the empty shantytown, Mei said softly,

“Have Sora and the others already left?”

Before she could finish speaking, Raven’s voice reached Mei’s ears.

“You’ve come?”

The voice came from above. Mei looked up and saw Raven sitting listlessly in a corner of the eaves.

She gently landed on the ground, raising a cloud of dust.

Looking at Mei, Raven said softly.

“Exactly two hours, no more, no less. I like people as punctual as you.”

Mei stared at Raven expressionlessly.

“As agreed, I came alone.”

Raven smiled and murmured to Mei.

“Heh, it seems I don’t need to ask any more questions; you’re already prepared. Come with me.”

With that, Raven opened the door of the nest and led Mei deeper into the shantytown.

She spoke as she walked.

“After the children left, this place became so deserted. It’s almost become like that ruin down there. Quiet, desolate, devoid of any life.”

Hearing the emotion in Raven’s words, Mei paused slightly, looking at the empty room, and couldn’t help but ask.

“What will happen to them?”

Raven answered slowly.

“They will receive further treatment in advanced and secure facilities, in an artificially regulated Honkai energy environment, with customized, procedural care, and a larger, freer living space...”

“Both the material conditions and the spiritual experience are worlds apart from life in the Nest.”

“When the final treatment is completed, those children will have awakened their Holy Marks. Then, they will be able to leave their past and begin a new life.”

Hearing this, Mei expressed doubt.

“World Serpent will let them leave?”

“These children are all rare Awakened Ones of the Holy Mark. I don’t think your companions will let them go easily.”

Raven wasn’t surprised by Mei’s question, speaking with absolute certainty.

“They will, because it’s the Lord’s order, the ‘reward’ he promised me.”

Mei was even more puzzled.

“Reward?”

But Raven just smiled and said nothing more.

After navigating winding alleyways, the two finally stopped in front of an iron gate.

Raven looked at the gate.

“We’ve arrived.”

“The Lord is behind this door. He wants to see you alone.”

Mei took a deep breath and said slowly.

“Open the door.”

Raven placed her hand on the doorknob, looking at Mei’s somber face. Thinking of something, she sighed at Mei.

“It’s truly astonishing. When we first met, I thought you were just an innocent, naive good girl.”

“But in just a few days, your eyes have changed completely. You’ve undergone a transformation in such a short time. I hope you get the answers you seek. Go, and good luck.”

As soon as she finished speaking, the iron gate slowly opened, leading Mei into a dimly lit plaza.

“Miss Elf: I’m a little curious for some reason. You know, Dr. Mei and Mei are exactly the same except for their personalities~”

“Cat Cat: I have a strange sense of imagery here, meow!”

“Don’t Want to Go to Work: Kevin Kaslana and Doctor Mei, Kiana Kaslana and Raiden Mei. Is this... some kind of inexplicable fate?”

Xiyue saw the comments and laughed.

“Not only that, but the Kaslana family all share a common trait. Do you know what it is?”

Hearing Xiyue’s words, the audience couldn’t help but become interested.

“Drunken Warrior: What trait?”

“Want to Buy An Island: They all have white hair?”

“Don’t Want to Take the Exam: They’re all incredibly handsome!”

“Driver’s License Revoked: They’re all idiots? Zaychik thinks that’s impossible. After all, only the idiot Kiana is an idiot.”

“Research Girl: They’re all stupid.”

“Cook: .......”

“Dudu: Tell me!”

Looking at everyone’s comments, Xiyue smiled mysteriously, then smiled at the comment section and said:

“They all like women~”

“Think about it carefully. You guys think about it carefully!”

The comment section then scanned the screen in unison.

“Huh?”

Xiyue didn’t answer. The riddle-maker is the happiest.

Then she continued with the story.

Tap—tap—

From the shadows, the sound of footsteps approached silently.

“You are!”

Looking at the white-haired man before her, Mei was surprised, for she felt a sense of familiarity emanating from him.

However, she didn’t dwell on it, drawn by the coldness emanating from him.

Cold. The air grew colder with his approach.

Mei felt as if she were in an ancient ice cave.

A sense of oppression surged from deep within her, making it difficult for her to move.

Kevin looked at Mei, at that face so familiar yet so strange. A flicker of emotion stirred deep within his cold, emotionless eyes. But it vanished in an instant.

She wasn’t her, and she couldn’t possibly be her.

She had already been fifty thousand years ago...

Kevin didn’t think much of it. He returned his gaze to Mei and calmly said,

“Kevin Kaslana.”

A calm voice rang out, and the oppressive feeling vanished abruptly.

Mei looked into those eyes, as if she saw two empty voids.

In those voids, there seemed to be sorrow, a sorrow that time could not erase, a sorrow that was forever unhealable.

Hearing the surname, Mei’s eyes widened in surprise.

“Kaslana?”

“Don’t Want to Take the Exam: Does this count as meeting the parents, oh no, meeting the ancestors?”

“Don’t Want to Take the Exam: No way!”

...

Kevin sensed Mei’s surprise but ignored it, speaking directly to her.

“Raiden Mei, you have someone you want to save, but Schicksal and Anti-Entropy cannot fulfill your wish.”

“I promise you, World Serpent can save that girl.”

Hearing Mei’s straightforward words, Mei looked into Kevin’s eyes and said softly.

“What are your conditions?”

Kevin asked directly.

“You.”

Kevin’s words were calm and brief, yet they carried a heavy weight, like a law etched by a Signet on an ancient pillar, unalterable and inviolable.

Hearing this, Mei hurriedly asked.

“I need to know the specific method, and then watch her get out of danger.”

“If you can really do it, I’ll do anything for you.”

Mei’s eyes were firm and strong.

Kevin remained calm and continued.

“That girl named Kiana is on the verge of death. The core erosion has exceeded the limit she said she could withstand. To save her life, the excess core must be separated from her body immediately. There is only one way.”

“Become the Herrscher of Thunder.”

Hearing Kevin’s words, Mei’s eyes widened in confusion.

“What?”

Kevin’s calm voice continued.

“You are the chosen Herrscher, and a portal to the Imaginary Tree will forever remain within your body.”

“When the residual energy of the Third Eruption is absorbed by that portal, you will awaken again, taking the power of the Herrscher of Thunder from Kiana. A new Herrscher core will condense within you, while the Gem of Conquest will disintegrate and disappear. With one core removed, her symptoms will be alleviated.”

...

“Cook: Is this method really possible?”

“Dr. Lobsterhead: Theoretically, it is. The three cores in Kiana were forcibly taken by Sirin. But because Kiana’s consciousness remains, they haven’t fully merged. There is a way to remove them.”

“The Number One Cutest in the World: Just like when Sirin took Mei’s core, Mei can take it back.”

“Beautiful Snake: Yes.”

“Don’t Want to Take the Exam: I don’t want Mei to resort to such a method!”

“Want to Buy An Island: But it’s the only way.”

The comment section fell silent.

......

Back to the story.

A cold voice struck Mei, reminding her of the strange events of the past few days.

Doctor Tesla’s diagnosis, the sudden dizziness, and Raven’s abrupt change in attitude.

She suddenly understood everything.

After a moment of silence, she questioned Kevin again.

“If I become a Herrscher, Kiana can be saved?”

Kevin spoke.

“That’s right.”

Mei immediately replied.

“Then I have nothing to hesitate about.”

“Three years ago, she led me out of the darkness. Without Kiana, I wouldn’t be so limited. For her sake, I’d be happy to return to the darkness.”

“But if I’m manipulated by Honkai again, I hope you can...”

Kevin knew what Mei was about to say and interrupted her.

“Don’t worry, that won’t happen.”

“What you should really care about is what happens after you become a Herrscher.”

Hearing Kevin’s inexplicable words, Mei was very confused.

Kevin continued to explain.

“This time, you saved Kiana, but next time, she will still be in danger. She will inevitably use the power of the Herrscher of the Void again, time and time again, for those around her, for this world.”

“As long as Honkai exists, as long as the Herrscher is born, she will always step forward, constantly pushing herself to the brink of death—until she gives her life.”

“I’ve seen countless people like her who, even in the face of death and fear, still steadfastly do what they believe is right and walk the path they believe in.”

“They’re gone. None of them have returned.”

Kevin’s words pierced Mei’s heart like ice picks. She wanted to refute him, but couldn’t utter a single word. Because it was the deepest pain in her heart, because it was a fact that no amount of sacrifice could change.

----

Chapter 52: Kevin and Mei's First Date“No, I won’t let that happen!”Even though she knew Kevin was telling the truth, Mei still refused to give up. She still wanted to save Kiana.Hearing Mei’s words, Kevin didn’t offer her any more hope, remaining direct.“You can’t stop her. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be here in the first place.”“But you have another choice. You can choose to become one with the Serpents!”Kevin revealed his ultimate purpose in summoning Mei. Even though Mei had mentally prepared herself, she still hadn’t expected Kevin to say such a thing.“What did you say?”Kevin ignored Mei’s surprise and confusion, explaining to her."Soon, Herrschers will arrive one after another. The war between humanity and the Honkai will enter its next phase. You can choose to join the World Serpent, eliminate the Honkai, capture the Herrschers, seal their powers, and prevent the Herrscher of the Void from increasing her power.""Only by leaving Kiana's side can you truly protect her from danger. And when Project Stigma is completed, you and she can return to being 'human.'"—"Driver's License Revoked: So that's why Mei joined the World Serpent? Although I expected it.""Dr. Lobsterhead: Project Stigma? Is it really as Kevin said? I'm skeptical.""Don't Want to Take the Exam: Mei, Mei!""Miss Elf: Could it be that no one in the World Serpent can cook, so they hired Mei with a high salary?"Elysia thought of something funny and playfully commented in the comment section.This caused a brief silence in the comment section. Pardo quickly broke the silence with a comment.“Cat Cat: Hey, that's quite possible. After all, none of the World Serpent's current executives seem like they can cook, especially Raven. Thinking about Sora's words, I can imagine what it would be like if Raven cooked.”“Want to Buy An Island: .......”“Don't Want to Go to Work: Herrscher of Cooking is going to World Serpent to cook! Hahaha, this was supposed to be a sad scene, why did it suddenly become so funny?”“The Number One Cutest in the World: You guys are enough! But if Mei goes to World Serpent, knowing her personality, she might actually cook for them.”"Cook:...""Don't Want to Take the Exam: I don't want this! Mei can only cook for Kiana!!!"Dr. Mei, who had been watching the live stream, saw these comments and a slight smile appeared on her lips.In her memory, Kevin only ate noodles.Thinking of this, Dr. Mei decided to remind Kevin again to eat more rice and less noodles!Back to the story.As the two were talking.Suddenly, there was a loud bang. A beam of light shot upward, and the sky shattered in the light, scattering like glass.Seeing the strange phenomenon in the sky, Mei hurriedly asked."What happened!?"Kevin looked at the giant hole in the sky. His expression was still calm and unsurprised as he spoke in a flat tone."The time has come.""The gate has opened. Soon, the Imaginary Tree will appear in this city. The slumbering Honkai energy will be released from the earth's ley lines. Absorb it, and you can become the Herrscher of Thunder again, buying her more time.""But if you truly want to save her life, you only have one path."Here, Kevin shifted his gaze from the void in the sky to Mei, looking at the girl before him, and invited her once more."Whether you trust me or trust the World Serpent, I will give you time to decide.""Raiden Mei, Kiana's fate is in your hands. I don't need to convince you, because you know better than I do..."Here, Kevin's tone became slightly more serious."Her ideals can save the world, but it can't save herself."Having said this, Kevin fell silent, crossed his arms, and gazed into the distance.Mei also turned her gaze away, looking at the increasing number of Honkai beasts around her, even more surprised."These are all Quantum Shadows?""Why are Quantum Shadows appearing in Nagazora City?"Mei remained silent as she headed toward the Helios.Midway, the earth began to tremble, and fierce winds poured from the cracks, shoving Mei to the ground along with the shaking skyscrapers. She looked up and saw the seawater submerging the city steadily receding."The seawater is receding? No, that's not right. It is rising! The buildings are gathering toward the sky."A muffled roar came from afar, followed by the booming of explosions, then the deafening sound of collapses.Finally, light, an endless white light, completely engulfed the world before her eyes—Mei stared at this scene in shock.....Just minutes earlier, in Nagazora, in the Pacific Ocean, on the Hyperion.Einstein sat in the cockpit, looking at the coordinates, and spoke softly."Thirty kilometers from the rendezvous coordinates provided by Tesla. The course is normal; no enemy detected."Naturally, Theresa, usually dressed in her nun's habit, couldn't help but look puzzled."What about the Schicksal troops we spotted during reconnaissance?"Einstein replied."They've landed on the western coast of the Far Eastern Archipelago and seem to have no intention of advancing further. Schicksal has probably noticed the anomaly in Nagazora City, so they've deployed Valkyries to nearby cities ahead of time.""The Anti-Entropy rescue force is also in place. Once those Honkai beasts erupt, they'll immediately take action to minimize losses. We absolutely cannot let Kiana use the Herrscher of the Void's power."Listening to Einstein's words, Theresa sighed deeply, her eyes filled with worry."Sigh, I'm still a little worried.""It's so quiet, too quiet. This feeling reminds me of the Battle of Schicksal. It's unsettling..."Suddenly, a slight tremor interrupted Theresa's unspoken words."What's wrong!?"Theresa asked hurriedly.The communications officer also reported hastily."Report! An unusual Honkai reaction has occurred in Nagazora City! Several unidentified units are approaching from directly ahead at a speed of 320 kilometers per hour! Target imagery is being acquired!"Hearing the communicator's report, Einstein's face showed a look of doubt."Enemy attack? Is it Schicksal?"But the communicator's next words interrupted Einstein's thoughts."No, it's the Quantum Shadow! The Quantum Shadow is attacking the Hyperion!""The bow has been under heavy attack, and the close-in weapon system has detached!"Hearing the communicator's words, Theresa exclaimed incredulously."What did you say? How could there be a Quantum Shadow here!?""Damn it, have Bronya and the others split into two groups immediately to protect the ship's deck and engine room.""I'll handle the enemies on the deck!"After giving the order, Theresa immediately hoisted Judas onto her back and headed toward the deck...."Cat Cat: It's been so long since we've seen Theresa! She's still so adorable and a little goofy.""Miss Elf: So small, with such a cute voice, you just want to hug her.""Drunken Warrior: Theresa hasn't changed at all. I mean, she hasn't changed, hehe...""The Number One Cutest in the World: You guys!""Want to Buy An Island: Theresa seems to have matured a lot too.""Dr. Lobsterhead: After going through all this, it's hard not to grow up.""Don't Want to Take the Exam: Auntie~ I miss you!""The Number One Cutest in the World: Thank you, I don't miss you.""Drunken Warrior: Me too, I've had a few quiet days.""Don't Want to Take the Exam: I'm not new, you guys just miss me!""Driver's License Revoked: No, thank you.""Miss Elf: I miss you so much~""Don't Want to Go to Work: Me too~""Nun: I love every child, including you~"...Controlling Theresa, Xiyue entered the scripted kill mode, rampaging through the enemy ranks.Soon, she achieved a perfect three-star rating to complete the level.Back to the story.Theresa placed Judah aside, her gaze fixed on the distant Nagazora City, and exclaimed in surprise."Ah, that light... it's coming from the direction of Nagazora City!"But before Theresa could ponder for long, Einstein's voice interrupted her."Ms. Theresa, the next wave of enemies is approaching."Hearing Einstein's words, Theresa blurted out all her questions."Doctor Einstein, what's going on? I see the seawater churning. It's a tsunami! A tsunami and a storm are surging toward the city!""Why is there a Quantum Shadow in the Far East? What happened to Nagazora City?!"Faced with Theresa's questions, Einstein couldn't give a correct answer either. She could only look at the strange phenomena in Nagazora City before her and slowly say,"The Honkai energy of Nagazora City is seeping out from underwater at an alarming rate, gathering toward the band of light in the sky. That's definitely not the Sea of Quanta."Then, her expression grave, she spoke to Theresa.“Ms. Theresa, we're in big trouble.”...“I remember it clearly. That night, I happened to walk to the window and look up at the starry sky.”“I suddenly had a strange feeling—as if I wasn't looking up at the stars, but the stars were looking down at me. Under the vast Milky Way, I was so small. Everything around me became insignificant in that instant.”“At that moment, I immediately had a thought—I believed that every star in the sky was our enemy.”“Want to Buy An Island: Is that Mei’s voice?”“Miss Elf: No, that’s Doctor Mei’s voice.”“Dr. Lobsterhead: Doctor Mei?”.....The scene gradually came into focus: a man and a woman sat on a bench in the sunlight. The image gradually became clearer, and their faces were revealed.It was Kevin and Dr. Mei, wearing glasses."Want to Buy An Island: Although I didn't see her face clearly, just looking at her profile, she looks exactly like Raiden Mei. But Mei doesn't wear glasses, so her aura is different.""Miss Elf: Kiana and Mei, Kevin and Dr. Mei. This connection is truly wonderful."In reality, Dr. Mei calmly observed everything. This scene was familiar to her; it was from her first date with Kevin.Back to the story.Kevin, listening to his beloved girl's words, scratched his head, looking puzzled."Every star is an enemy?"Dr. Mei nodded."That's right.""In my physics textbook, there's a picture of Earth taken by a space probe from 6.4 billion kilometers away."Hearing Dr. Mei's words, Kevin suddenly understood and answered sheepishly."Ah, I remember! There was nothing in that picture; I searched for ages before I finally saw a tiny blue dot."Hearing the boy's words, Dr. Mei didn't mind and explained to the older boy.“That’s Earth. This planet where we were born and grew up, this planet that has existed for 4.6 billion years, is nothing more than a tiny speck of light in the vast universe.”“Human history of thousands of years, billions of lives, countless pieces of knowledge and culture, are all insignificant on a cosmic scale. I often wonder, in such a vast universe, how much significance can one person truly have?”Hearing his beloved girl’s words, Kevin was momentarily at a loss for words.Looking into the girl’s earnest eyes, Kevin burst into laughter.“Hahahaha—”His laughter was hearty and fervent.Looking at Kevin’s sudden laughter, Dr. Mei asked, puzzled.“What are you laughing at?”Looking into the girl’s purple eyes, Kevin, still scratching his head, quickly shook his head.“No, no, I just find it fascinating. When I date other girls, if we talked about the stars, we'd end up talking about zodiac signs, blood types, and things like that.”“This is the first time I've met a girl who'd talk about the universe and humanity from the stars. You're truly something.”Dr. Mei listened to the boy's words, remaining silent, turning away from him.Seeing this, Kevin panicked and quickly explained.“I mean, you're unique, different from everyone else.”“Please continue. That was an interesting topic; I'd like to hear more.”Hearing Kevin's explanation, Dr. Mei looked at him and said calmly.“I've finished. You haven't answered my question yet.”Dr. Mei's serious words reached Kevin's ears, and he became a little nervous.“Oh, right. Hmm… let me think.”“Like you said, the universe is vast, and Earth is small. Perhaps… to this vast universe, we… and everything we care about, are meaningless.”Dr. Mei's expression remained unchanged.“Indeed.”Hearing Dr. Mei’s reply, Kevin, still scratching his head with one hand, watched the setting sun.“It’s a heavy conclusion.”Dr. Mei’s words continued.“But despite that, I, you, and everyone else in this world are still living ‘meaningfully’.”“We live, we exist. Every choice we make in life, every moment we seize. Humanity originally had no meaning, but we give ourselves meaning.”Hearing Dr. Mei’s words, Kevin smiled brightly and spoke happily.“Now you’re acting like a philosopher again.”Dr. Mei calmly explained, listening to Kevin’s words.“Science and philosophy have something in common when it comes to questions about the nature of the universe.”After saying this, Dr. Mei paused for a moment, then looked at Kevin.“I’m curious about something.”Kevin looked at Dr. Mei’s eyes, puzzled.“What is it?”Looking into the boy’s azure eyes, she asked gently.“You don’t seem like someone who would be interested in this topic at all, but you’ve been listening to everything I’ve said.”“Do you really think this conversation has been valuable? I hope you can tell me honestly.”Hearing Dr. Mei’s words, Kevin was taken aback. He scratched his head and said sheepishly."You ask me what value I have, and I can't answer that.""Because of what you're saying, I estimate I can only understand half of it, maybe even less.""But... the way you're talking about these things so earnestly is really captivating. So, I want to keep listening."Hearing this, Dr. Mei was still somewhat puzzled."Just because of these reasons?"Kevin nodded sincerely."Yes."Dr. Mei was even more confused."Why?"Kevin shook his head."I don't know either, or rather, I want to know too.""I will learn from you and try my best to think about the answer to this question."Hearing the boy's words, Mei remained silent for a moment, then let out a clear, bell-like laugh. Kevin, seeing Mei laugh, was somewhat mesmerized and exclaimed in genuine admiration."You finally smiled! You look beautiful when you smile!"Hearing Kevin's praise, Dr. Mei's ears turned a rare shade of red, but Kevin didn't notice. Mei gazed at the beautiful sunset in the distance and said slowly.“This summer, I’m going to Mu Continent to attend an academic conference. Many renowned physics professors and scholars will be there.”“I plan to exchange ideas with them and discuss my thoughts. It might sound arrogant, but I want to meet people who can change the world, and I want to be one of them.”“I want to see how far I can go in this cosmos.”Listening to the girl’s words, the boy encouraged her.“Keep going! I believe that one day you will fulfill all the words you’ve spoken today.”Dr. Mei nodded, looking curiously at the boy beside her who always wore a sunny, cheerful smile."And you?""Kevin, what are your plans for the future?"Hearing this, Kevin answered confidently."No, absolutely nothing.""I don't have your lofty ideals. Changing the world and all that is too far-fetched for me.""I just want to live in the present, cherish every friend, and enjoy every moment. To be happy and live freely." Kevin said cheerfully.Hearing Kevin's words, Dr. Mei's tone was inexplicably puzzled."You don't think about the future at all."Hearing Dr. Mei's words, Kevin immediately replied."I don't want to think about it. The world is so big, there's always a place that welcomes me, always things waiting for me to do. But if I only look ahead, I'll miss the people standing beside me.""I'm still a high school student, after all! Living a little more innocently, a little happier, that's who I am."Listening to the boy say these words earnestly with a smile, Mei looked at him and said softly."What a frivolous person...""But, I wish you could achieve your wish."Kevin nodded vigorously."Yeah, I hope both of our wishes come true!""Ah, by the way, how about this summer, let's go to Mu Continent together—"......"Don't Want to Go to Work: So this is what high school Kevin is like? Just from his voice, you can tell he's a sunny and cheerful person. Compared to Kevin in Current Era, the contrast is too strong!""Cat Cat: Kevin and Mei are so sweet! Especially their conversations, they're just like Kiana and Mei!""Drunken Warrior: Kevin's personality as a high school student is very similar to Kiana's, or rather, Kiana's personality during her time in St. Freya is exactly the same as Kevin's in high school!""The Number One Cutest in the World: Sigh, and Kiana from Arc City and Kevin, the current leader of World Serpent, have somewhat similar personalities. They experienced hardship and grew up quickly. Their personalities changed completely overnight.""Miss Elf: Kevin and Fu Hua's mission in the present civilization has already explained a lot. Sigh, are all members of the Kaslana family like this?""Sister: At this point, Kevin only wants to live in the present. What exactly happened in the Previous Era that turned a sunny and cheerful boy into this?"“Dr. Lobsterhead: According to the excavation records of Anti-Entropy and Schicksal, many key technologies of the Previous Era were invented by Mei, and Mei also seems to be the leader behind the Fire Moth? This still needs verification. But Mei's contributions are indescribable.”Dr. Mei in reality who watched the story unfold slowly drifted into memories.It was during that trip to Mu Continent that she joined the Fire Moth. And the Third Honkai erupted in Nagazora City. Kevin, to protect her, to be with her, resolutely joined the Fire Moth.Starting from the bottom, he gradually became the captain of a special team.Thinking of this, Dr. Mei murmured.“Kevin…”Seeing this storyline, Xiyue was deeply moved. When Kevin first appeared, few could understand him. It wasn't until the Elysian Realm storyline, until the final chapter, that players gradually came to understand and appreciate this Prometheus-like character.He is like Prometheus, who was bound to a cliff for stealing fire, his liver eaten by eagles every day, yet it constantly regenerated. Kevin's price for stealing the Power of Finality is that this power relentlessly destroys his physical body, but due to the Garuda Factor, his body is constantly reborn while being destroyed.The stolen power of Finality was also obtained by the legendary starters, allowing them to surpass Kevin. If the starters hadn't surpassed Kevin, Project Stigma would have been that cliff, and Kevin would have been bound to it, silently enduring everything alone. But the starters surpassed Kevin, thus ending his life, freeing him from that cliff and allowing him to rest in peace.Although the world will eventually descend into darkness, we will still choose to link the flame.It will affect the world.He pulled down the gods from the heavens, placing his own body on the throne that should have been the end. At that moment, Kevin became the fire-stealing "Prometheus."When the past resurfaced, transforming into an obsession to fight Honkai, he turned his soul into wings, becoming "Icarus," about to soar into the heavens.And merging soul and body, he poured everything he had into the chamber of a gun called "Deliverance," yearning and hoping that someone could surpass and utterly kill "Kevin."His story doesn't need spoilers; it will be revealed to everyone in the upcoming live stream.Perhaps it will even be shown to him personally.That might be the meaning of this live stream.Coming back to reality, he returned to the story.The flashback ended, and he opened his eyes, looking at the city merging with the light.Fleeting glimpses were like blood flowing to the heart. At the end of the halo, an endless sea of stars, an infinite world, was reflected. In that instant, in every ray of light, some died, some were reborn.Every single one of them, everyone they met, everyone they loved.The sorrow and joy they experienced, the blood and tears they shed, the vows made, the unfulfilled promises, the victories and defeats they created, their existence and their passing...All of human history, all of human heritage.What makes us human is merely a tiny, insignificant leaf in this light.-----

Chapter 53: The Return of the Thunder Queen!Main Story 17: When Thunder Pierces the Night Sky—02Drip—A light yet restless sound echoed in her ears, like sand hitting papyrus or beans bouncing inside a blender.Drip—Drip—A bone-chilling cold shot straight to her brain, and a consciousness gradually took shape in the darkness.Is this the sound of rain?From near to far, it was the sound of rain.Gradually, the sound grew louder until it transformed into a deafening roar like a storm. What was happening?Through a hazy daze, she struggled to open her eyes."Hoo—ah…!"Mei opened her eyes, and what greeted her was chaos.Looking at the devastation before her, Mei wondered,"What's going on?"Dim light flickered like strings manipulating a puppet, pulling at the completely transformed city.“What happened? How did Nagazora City become like this? Where are the people from World Serpent…?”“Ah… Kiana!”“Helios is in danger!”Mei cried out anxiously. At the same time, jumbled memories surfaced and vanished in her mind, but she could never piece together a complete answer.She started running, but didn't know where she was running.As she ran, countless Quantum Shadows attacked her.Mei also noticed that the Quantum Shadows were becoming increasingly ferocious, and their attacks were growing more intense. She fought them as she continued running forward.Just then, a sharp pain shot through her head.The pain returned.Mei's sword swings grew weaker and weaker, her breathing became heavier and heavier, and just as she was about to give up, Kiana's voice rang out.“Mei, are you alright?!”Mei looked up and saw Kiana running toward her from a short distance away."Kiana?!"Seeing this, Mei endured her headache and unleashed her power, annihilating the surrounding Quantum Shadows. She didn't want Kiana to use the Herrscher of the Void's power!Meanwhile, a dragon's roar echoed across the sky.It was Benares.The wind pressure whipped up by Benares tore the last few monsters to shreds. The dragon landed beside Kiana, awaiting its next command."Cat Cat: Having such a cool dragon is so awesome! I'm a little envious of Kiana!""Don't Want to Take the Exam: Hehe, don't be envious. Kiana will take you for a ride sometime.""Cat Cat: It's a deal!"Meanwhile, the sleeping queen was unaware that Dragon Benares had already become like this. Otherwise, she would have turned into a rabid troll in the comment section, unleashing a barrage of insults.Back to the story.Kiana, panting heavily, came to Mei's side.Mei looked at Kiana, her expression filled with worry and confusion."Kiana? What are you doing here?!"Just as she finished speaking, Mei noticed Kiana's wounds, and her eyes filled with heartache."Ah... your injuries! How could you leave Helios so easily?!"Mei said reproachfully.Hearing Mei's reproach, Kiana's face darkened as she retorted,"That's the question I should be asking you!""When did you run off? Everyone suddenly couldn't find you! Do you know how worried I was?!"Panting heavily, Kiana looked around at the surroundings and, seeing that Mei was unharmed, continued,"Let's not talk about that. The enemy could reappear at any time. You should go back and rejoin the Doctor."Hearing Kiana's words, Mei looked at her in confusion."Go back? What about you?"Hearing Mei's question, Kiana didn't explain, only answering seriously,"I have things to do."Then Kiana looked into the distance. The pillar of light still shimmered in the air.She murmured,"That pillar of light... I've seen it before.""Using the power of the Herrscher of the Void, I can close that hole in the sky and eliminate the source of this storm."Hearing Kiana's words, Mei glared at her and snapped,"No, absolutely not!""Your injuries haven't healed yet. You can't continue fighting!"Kiana heard the suppressed anger in Mei's voice. Sensing the concentration of Honkai energy around them, she replied seriously,"Mei, I can't leave it alone.""Monsters are still appearing, and Honkai energy is gathering. This disaster will soon spread to other places.""I have to stop it!"Hearing these words, Mei felt an immense pain in her heart and reiterated her stance."Don't be so reckless! Don't you understand your condition?!""If you keep doing something this dangerous, your body will—"Before Mei could finish speaking, Kiana coldly interrupted her."That's not important."Hearing Kiana's cold words, Mei's eyes widened in disbelief.Kiana remained silent after seeing Mei's expression.Mei stared intently at Kiana in confusion."Kiana?"Kiana looked into Mei's purple eyes, remained silent for a moment, then finally spoke."Mei, I know everything. Everything about you, your body... I know it all."Hearing Kiana's words, Mei refused to believe them and involuntarily took a few steps back."No... no, it's not like that."But Kiana continued."To be honest, I'm scared too. The thought of possibly dying makes my body tremble uncontrollably."“But I can’t run away just because I’m scared. I have to do what I can and take responsibility for what I should. Only then can I face those who were hurt because of me and face my past self.”“Face Himeko-sensei…”After saying that, Kiana turned around. Her usual smile had already returned.Her voice regained its usual vitality.“Mei, don’t worry. I’m very strong. Wait patiently for me to come back!”Hearing this, Mei looked at Kiana, and her emotions could no longer be contained.“Kiana—no—!”A gust of wind blew, slapping raindrops against Mei’s face. She watched Kiana leap onto the dragon’s back and fly toward the distant halo.She kept calling out, but her voice was swallowed by the surging light and disappeared...As that departing figure faded into the distance, she could no longer see or reach her."Don't Want to Go to Work: I knew this would be the plot, but Kiana really stepped on a landmine here.""Miss Elf: Mei must be furious right now.""Don't Want to Take the Exam: Why?""Dr. Lobsterhead: Because Kiana doesn't care about her own life at all. How could Mei, who values Kiana's life more than anyone else, not be angry?""Nun: She's atoning for her sins, for her past self—or rather, for the Herrscher of the Void. Guilt drives her to always stand at the forefront. What a pitiful child.""Cat Cat: In the end, it's all Otto's fault. Can't we have a scene where he gets beaten up? I really can't stand him! He's always the one causing trouble!!!""Driver's License Revoked: Zaychik also wants to beat up Otto.""Drunken Warrior: Sigh... atonement, Kiana?""Dudu: It seems Mei has no choice but to become the Herrscher of Thunder again."...Back to the story, Mei stared blankly at the vanished Kiana, letting the rain soak her. Her mind replayed the memory of Kiana waking her, her suicidal thoughts, her fall from the building, the outstretched hand, and that smile.“Hold on tight! I won’t let you die!”Already contemplating death, Mei looked at Kiana, who was clinging tightly to her, and asked in confusion,“What are you doing?”Kiana answered directly.“Isn’t it obvious? I’m saving you!”“Quick! Grab my other hand!”Hanging from the high-rise, seeing the girl trying to save her and remembering the terror of losing her mind, Mei hurriedly said,“N-No... while I still have my senses…”Before she could finish speaking, Kiana interrupted her."Do as I say!""No matter what happens, we'll talk about it after we get back up!"Mei was stunned."Huh?"Kiana continued,"I finally managed to bring you back to normal. How can I just leave you like this?""If you die like this, I'll feel guilty for the rest of my life!"Mei's eyes widened as they reflected the girl's face. A glimmer of light appeared in her gloomy heart.Kiana pulled her tightly, calling out urgently.“Ugh... If you understand, then hurry up and move—”...“That disaster brought me to you. For the first time, my life intertwined with another person's.”“From that day on, loneliness and desolation gradually faded away. I don't know when it started, but I no longer feared the darkness...”“Because I know there is always a light.”The memory ended, and Mei returned to reality, forced to face the fact that Kiana had left her once again.Mei wept.“Kiana, come back!”A sudden pain gripped Mei like thorns, causing her to stumble and fall.She struggled to lift her head, her gaze fixed on the distance. A solitary figure soared through the raging storm toward the horizon.Countless Quantum Shadows rushed toward that figure.With every collision, a golden flash pierced the skies above Nagazora.She knew every ray of light represented Kiana burning away her own life."No... please... stop fighting!"She knew her voice couldn't reach her. She knew the right choice was to stop.But she couldn't control herself, just as she couldn't stop running or stop longing.Unable to stop chasing the dawn in the darkness.Water splashed, shattering along with her memories.Mei endured the headache and chased after Kiana, determined to bring her back.As she ran, every word Kiana had ever said echoed in her mind."Mei! With Mei here, it's like having the power of a hundred people!""The power of a hundred people? I'm not a superhero.""No. Just having Mei by my side already feels like gaining a hundred times the strength.""Only Kiana would say something like that."The memory ended.Mei looked at the chaotic world and said coldly,"Power?""Can I still give you strength now?"With tears streaming down her face, she continued running after Kiana."Kiana, didn't you still want to become an A-rank Valkyrie?""If you don't pass this exam, you'll be demoted from C-rank to a support Valkyrie. If you become a D-rank Valkyrie, you'll only handle support and logistics, and you won't be able to go to the battlefield so easily anymore.""Logistics? Like working at a convenience store? Ugh! I don't want to!""Then come with me to the training grounds. No rest today.""Aaaaaah, Mei, please don't pull my ear!"...Mei's monologue continued.“I once naively believed that nothing would ever change. But in the blink of an eye, you, who were always by my side, have flown to a distant place I can never reach.”Mei continued running as everything that had happened replayed in her mind like a movie.“You want to take back this body? You want to save this girl?”She remembered the time she fought the Herrscher of the Void.“If that's the case, then let me use her body—her hands—to kill you one by one. I want your twisted faces and your mangled limbs to be the last thing she sees.”“Family, friends, happiness, dreams, future, hope.”“She shouldn't have them. She doesn't deserve them. She will never have them.”The memory ended.Mei's voice trembled with tears, filled with self-reproach.“I was too weak. I couldn't protect you... It was me who pushed you toward this fate.”Then she remembered their first encounter in Arc City, Kiana's cold words, and burst into tears.“I know you haven't changed at all. You're still that girl who smiles and reaches out to strangers. Even after experiencing so much injustice, even knowing the world isn't perfect, even knowing there are tragedies destined to be irreversible.”“You're still the same as before.”“Fighting for your comrades, for others, and for the good you believe in.”“Kiana, you will definitely become a hero, and the world is waiting for you to become one.”Mei fell silent.“But I...”"Maybe I'm the one who's wrong...""Kiana... we... can never go back to the past."..."Miss Elf: Mei's monologue... sigh, you can feel her despair just by watching.""Cat Cat: They even used the flashback knife. Thank you so much, meow! Waaaaah! Can't there be a little sweetness in the plot?""Don't Want to Go to Work: Mei has no choice but to join World Serpent now! Otto is such a terrible person! Damn it.""Dr. Lobsterhead: At the rate Kiana is using her power, she's definitely going to die after this.""Drunken Warrior: What exactly is Otto trying to do?!""Want to Buy the Island: Let's see how the story goes. I believe Otto will definitely be killed!""Don't Want to Take the Exam: Mei, Kiana won't leave you!""Cook: Hmm!""The Number One Cutest in the World: We absolutely cannot let these events happen again!"...Back to the story, Mei ran toward Kiana's location.Suddenly, she saw a huge dragon falling from the sky. Seeing this, Mei panicked.She rushed toward where Benares had fallen."What happened to Benares? Where is Kiana?"As Mei drew closer, she saw a massive gold-and-black sword embedded in Benares's body. Before she could react, the sword was pulled free, and a gigantic mech appeared before her.Emitting an overwhelmingly terrifying aura, it attacked her.Watching this Husk Nihilus that had tormented her countless times in the Memorial Arena, Xiyue instinctively felt a headache coming on. This enemy had not only tormented everyone in the Memorial Arena but was also a formidable boss in this storyline.If she could use her own character, she could defeat it easily.The problem was that she was using an old Mei skin.The first time she defeated it, she couldn't even remember how long it had taken.It had been unbearably difficult.But now things were different. As a veteran player, she could easily take it down.Back to the story.Mei barely managed to dodge the Husk's attacks, but her arm was still injured.With her last bit of strength, she defeated it, clutched her wounded arm, and slowly walked toward Benares.“Benares, are you alright?”“We have to hurry... find Kiana!”Before she could take more than a few steps, excruciating pain forced her to her knees.“Ha! Ha! Ha!”“I can't move!”At the same time, Nihilus, who should have fallen, rose once again. The paper wheels began spinning, returning to their original form before attacking the immobilized Mei.Mei was powerless to dodge and could only watch helplessly as the blade hurtled toward her.She closed her eyes in despair.After a while, she felt no pain.She opened her eyes in confusion.She saw Benares, with the last of its strength, using its head to shield her from the attack.“No... no...?!”Mei tried to move, but her body wouldn't obey. She could only watch helplessly as the Husk Nihilus pulled the greatsword from Benares's neck.In reality, the sleeping queen within Kiana's mind shed tears.Meanwhile, Mei was also on the verge of unconsciousness. A wave of dizziness caused her consciousness to gradually fade, and she finally collapsed the moment she saw the Husk raise the greatsword...."Don't Want to Take the Exam: Mei! Will Mei be alright?! That damn Kiana, why didn't she protect Mei?!""Drunken Warrior: Calm down. Mei will be alright. Don't worry!""Driver's License Revoked: Judging from the previous storylines, Mei-neechan will be rescued.""Cat Cat: Bella! Dragon Benares! I wanted to ride Dragon Benares with Kiana, but Dragon Benares is gone!!""Don't Want to Take the Exam: Why? Dragon Benares is also a Honkai Beast. Why is this Honkai enemy attacking Dragon Benares too?! Damn it!""Dr. Lobsterhead: Quantum-attribute Honkai Beasts and Honkai Humanoids are different from other attribute Honkai Beasts. Besides, they're mindless. If you attack them, they'll attack you in return.""Miss Elf: Such a cute and cool dragon is gone just like that?""Want to Buy the Island: What exactly is this awesome-looking Honkai mech? I've never seen it before.""Beautiful Snake: Otto didn't summon the Imaginary Tree. This must be the guardian of the Imaginary Tree. Otherwise, it wouldn't be so powerful."Xiyue smiled silently upon seeing this.Dragon Benares would reappear in another form, though it seemed to have lost its intelligence.Xiyue thought of Kurikara but had somewhat forgotten about her.After all, she didn't remember much from her past life.Focusing on the plot, the domestic violence scene was not far away....Darkness.As far as the eye could see, there was only darkness.Nothing could be seen, nothing could be heard, and nothing could be smelled.Only the body, freed from the constraints of gravity, drifted aimlessly...Right.She had seen this scene before.Three years ago, the world had died like this.At this point in the story, the background music began.This was Honkai's signature apocalyptic anthem, once again intensifying the atmosphere of sorrow and despair.When Xiyue heard it, she felt numb.She remembered the chapter in Honkai Gakeun that chronicled the destruction of the world.She felt numb once again....Within Mei's consciousness...In the endless darkness, some cried out, some wailed, some remained silent, and some collapsed.Finally, only silence remained, along with herself falling through it."Crybaby, long time no see."A deep, resonant voice rang out.As it spoke, purple appeared within the darkness. A violet current swirled gently around her, embracing every corner of her body and leading her toward the light."You've changed a lot."The voice seemed to come from an unreachable place before vanishing just as it reached her ears.It was familiar.It was nostalgic."This is the first time you've come to me willingly.""Aren't you afraid anymore?"Mei answered,"Afraid?""It's strange... I... I can't feel fear anymore."There was no more resentment, self-blame, sadness, or pain.All those emotions had disappeared.Only calm remained."Continue forward, and you'll fall into an even deeper hell."Raiden's voice rang out once again."It doesn't matter. I can save her from hell."Mei gave her answer."You will say goodbye to everything you have now. Goodbye to your companions. Goodbye to everything."Mei answered again."It's okay. I've gotten used to being alone.""You will endure doubt and criticism, walking farther and farther down a lonely road."Mei continued,"It's okay. That's the fate I was meant to face.""You will leave her forever."This time, Mei did not answer.She remained silent as the Herrscher of Thunder continued."You can never return to her side, see her smile, or hold her hand.""Once you take this step, there's no turning back.""You... are you really going to do this?"Mei responded with hesitation, resentment, and determination."It's... okay.""Everyone is here... everyone... will take care of her...""Let me do what I have to do...""I've... made up my mind."The Herrscher of Thunder sensed her resolve, paused for a moment, then shouted loudly,"Go!""Bury me with your own hands. Transform my anger, my lament, and my demise into the strength for your solitary journey.""Go to the whole world and proclaim the return of the Queen of Thunder...""Go and become the true Herrscher of Thunder!""Farewell, Raiden Mei!"Two different versions of Mei's voice rang out simultaneously, proclaiming her final resolve.At this moment, the Queen of Thunder had returned!---

Chapter 54: The Scene of Massive Domestic Violence (Lament of the Fallen)

The indecisive Mei was gone, replaced by the return of the Queen of Thunder.

Roar!

The scene shifts back to reality. The greatsword of the Husk Nihilus, which was about to strike Mei, is blasted away by the immense power erupting from within her. A deafening roar of thunder accompanies it.

A dramatic transformation occurs in Mei, accompanied by rousing background music.

When Raiden Mei reappears, she is the true Herrscher of Thunder!

Just like in Elysian Realm, the invincible Herrscher of Thunder!

Now, with human will, she wields divine power.

Her eyes open as she surveys the mortal realm, looking down upon the enemies beneath her feet.

Then, the game begins.

Xiyue enthusiastically takes control of this overpowered character.

She unleashes a barrage of attacks on the monsters, thoroughly enjoying herself.

Soon, with a few slashes, the Husk Nihilus’s remains are shattered, dissipating along with the vibrant lightning.

The viewers in the livestream were stunned by the massive damage.

Xiyue, however, was unsurprised.

The Herrscher of Thunder was incredibly useful, easy to operate, possessed numerous invincibility skills, and had high-burst AoE lightning damage, making her a complete massacre machine against mechanical-type Honkai beasts.

When she was first released, she was extremely popular with players.

It wasn't until Senti appeared that the Herrscher of Thunder gradually faded from the Abyss's usual presence.

Although Senti was a support character, this support's damage was unimaginable.

Back then, she returned to the game because of the Herrscher of Thunder, and on her first day back, she got the Herrscher of Thunder with a single pull. Later, she saved up for a ten-pull and got her signature weapon in one go.

She was ecstatic.

However, in her previous life, she was really good at single pulls for Herrschers.

Herrscher of the Void, Herrscher of Reason, Herrscher of Thunder, and Herrscher of Flamescion were all obtained through single pulls.

It's so frustrating not getting Senti, whom she had always wanted.

Senti, Senti, why won't you come?!

Back to the story.

A torrential downpour fell, tears streaming down Mei's face and carrying away the past.

The voice in her mind vanished.

Only the sound of rain remained in the world, the silent sound of rain.

Everyone in the livestream could feel that although Mei was stronger now, there was no joy in her. There was only a deep-seated loneliness and sorrow.

She knew that by making this choice, she was destined to embark on a lonely path.

Just as the Herrscher of Thunder had said, she was destined to embark on a lonely path.

"Dr. Lobsterhead: So this is where Mei became the Herrscher of Thunder. Sigh. This choice was difficult, painful."

"Don't Want to Take the Exam: Mei...."

“Cat Cat: The Herrscher of Thunder within Mei's mind was good. From the conversation just now, it was like an older sister talking to her younger sister, and her voice is so beautiful! Completely different from Sirin.”

“Don't Want to Go to Work: She doesn't force Mei, she just keeps advising her. Really, this is completely different from the Herrscher I remember.”

“Want to Buy An Island: Sirin wants nothing more than to take control of the body, this Herrscher of Thunder….”

“Beautiful Snake: The Herrscher of the Current Era is completely different from the Herrscher of the Previous Era. What caused this change? I'm getting more and more curious.”

“Miss Elf: I don't know.”

Elysia, currently in the midst of the Fifth Eruption, vaguely guessed her identity through this mysterious livestream. But she wasn't certain, nor was she panicked.

For some reason, seeing the events involving Raiden Mei, Kiana, and Bronya brought her a sense of peace.

Her eyes flickered, and she continued watching the livestream with a smile.

As for Mobius and Mei, based on the current information, they still haven't figured out why the Herrschers of the Current Era have changed so drastically.

They've developed humanity and emotions.

Unlike their era, where Herrschers were all nothing but killing demons.

However, they also know the answer lies in the Elysian Realm storyline.

Of course, they're not in a hurry.

Back to the story.

Mei was silent for a moment, then walked toward the dead dragon, gently stroking its dull scales.

A sliver of light, a warm current emanating from her fingertips, gradually melted its massive body.

Within the light, a shadow was dissipating.

Within the light, a voice pleaded with her.

Then, the scene shifted, showing the viewers in the livestream images that resembled children's drawings.

They were portraits of a girl and a dragon.

The girl nestled against the dragon, and a voice slowly rose.

“Since she awoke, she had been flying. Benares, Honkai, monsters…”

“The people on the ground screamed and fled, but she couldn’t hear those voices; she could only hear the sole turmoil within her own heart.”

“To fight for the Queen, to protect the Queen who called herself Bella.”

The scene shifted again. The dragon transformed into a young girl, kneeling on one knee and faithfully offering everything to the Queen in the sky.

“She flew over snowfields, over mountains, over starry seas, over the mortal world… Finally, she fell, never to fly again.”

“Clinging to the memories of the dead dragon, only one final voice remained in her heart.”

“Your Majesty… I want… to hear you call my name one more time.”

...

“Bella!!!”

Sirin, who had been sleeping deep within Kiana's consciousness, awoke.

Upon waking, she saw Bella collapsed in the livestream room. Sirin's eyes widened in disbelief, and she cried out Bella's name excitedly. Tears streamed down her face without her realizing it.

Sirin looked down at her tears, her heart filled with sorrow.

She thought she would never cry again, never feel pain again, but seeing Bella die before her eyes, her heart ached once more.

The few moments of tenderness she experienced in her short life came from her four friends during that hellish existence.

Aurora, Agatha, Galina, and finally, Bella.

They had all forged deep friendships with her in hell, but the demons took them away one by one, leaving her alone in the end.

She gained power to remember them.

She created them using gems.

But they all eventually died, leaving only her and Bella.

She and Bella were each other's only family in this cruel world.

But today, she saw it.

In the near future, Bella will also die!

She couldn't accept this fact. She couldn't accept it. If even Bella would die, what was the point of her resurrection? What was the point of her existence?

This world will ultimately be destroyed.

Sirin lowered her head, her aura growing stronger, her purple eyes gradually turning crimson.

In reality, Kiana, watching the livestream, also felt a profound sense of unease.

Sirin was also approaching her breaking point; once she fully erupted, she and Kiana would prematurely enter a struggle for control of the body.

Just then, a voice echoed in Sirin's mind.

[Viewer detected approaching loss of control, temporary mission issued]

[Mission: Participate in the streamer's subsequent live stream activities]

[Mission Reward: A brand new body and subsequent mission rewards tentatively determined.]

[Mission Prerequisite: No longer be an enemy of humanity.]

[Accept?]

Hearing the system's voice, Sirin paused slightly, and the madness and rampage within her slowly vanished. Kiana, who had been highly tense in reality, also felt a sense of relief. Kiana scratched her head, quite puzzled.

But she didn't pay much attention, continuing to focus on the livestream.

Mei was almost leaving her; how could she be distracted!

Back to the story.

Raindrops fell, departing along with the soul named Bella.

Raindrops fell, crashing, shattering, and vanishing, departing with Bella's soul.

Crimson scales replaced the scars.

The dragon rose again, spreading its wings to proclaim its rebirth.

But now, she was merely a beast obeying the Herrscher of Thunder.

It was no longer Benares.

Only then did the viewers in the livestream finally understand that the crimson dragon beneath Mei's feet was Benares.

In the story, Mei looks up at the sky, the halo gradually dimming with the birth of the Herrscher.

Honkai energy is being absorbed, and the imaginary singularity is about to close. Only by eliminating the lingering quantum shadows can the city return to peace.

Mei leaps lightly onto the dragon's back. The red dragon, understanding its master's will, spreads its wings and sets off.

Flying away from the light, flying away from the chaos, toward the world beyond.

On the dragon's back, Mei wields her sword, destroying one quantum shadow after another.

...

Meanwhile, on the other side.

Drip—drip—

Kiana, unconscious, holds her head, confused.

"Ugh... where am I..."

The clatter of rain pounding against her ears awakens the girl from the darkness.

Looking at her surroundings, Kiana exclaims in surprise.

"Huh? Is this Senba Academy?"

Her memory is stuck at the moment of being shot down. She looks around, and the scene before her eyes is familiar.

"I... why am I here?"

Just as her body was about to react, a familiar male voice rang in her ear.

"Don't move."

Startled by the voice, Kiana quickly looked toward its source. Seeing the white-haired man not far away, Kiana's eyes sharpened.

"You're Kevin... Kaslana!"

Kevin ignored the hostility in Kiana's eyes and spoke calmly.

"You tried to close the imaginary singularity, but were attacked by an imaginary creation and fell. Although I caught you, your injuries are still severe."

"The Herrscher of the Void's power has weakened. This gives you more time."

Hearing Kevin's words, Kiana seemed to understand something, looking at the man before her with great confusion.

"You saved me, why?"

Kevin was silent for a moment, looking at the girl before him, before finally speaking.

"Thank Raiden Mei, she saved you."

"You don't need to worry about Nagazora City anymore. The disaster is over. She protected the city in your place."

Hearing this, Kiana said in disbelief.

"What did you say, Mei!?"

Kevin said calmly.

"Let her explain it to you herself."

"She's here."

As soon as Kevin finished speaking, lightning flashed and thunder roared in the sky.

A red bolt of lightning struck in front of Kiana, and Mei, transformed into the Herrscher, appeared before her.

...

"The Number One Cutest in the World: Sigh, it'll definitely be difficult for them to meet."

"Drunken Warrior: Definitely, these two are a perfect match in terms of personality. Hopefully, they won't have any conflicts."

"Don't Want to Go to Work: Kiana definitely won't be able to accept this fact, but there's nothing she can do about it. Sigh."

"Want to Buy An Island: I have a feeling it won't be that simple. Do you think they'll have a major fight?!"

“Cat Cat: Impossible! Kiana and Mei like each other so much, how could they possibly attack each other!”

“Miss Elf: Not necessarily. If Kiana knew Mei was going to World Serpent, she definitely wouldn't agree and would definitely try to stop her. She can't convince Mei with words, so she'd have to resort to violence.”

“Don't Want to Take the Exam: Ah, impossible! Kiana would never lay a hand on Mei, never! Mei would never hit Kiana!”

“Driver's License Revoked: Zaychik thinks it's very likely that Mei will hit Kiana.”

“Dudu: Kiana can't beat Mei right now.”

“Nun: Sigh, it's definitely going to be a sad scene later.”

“Dr. Lobsterhead: Will the two of them really fight?”

Xiyue, watching the discussion in the livestream, really wanted to say something.

"It's not just likely, it's definitely going to break out!"

"A once-in-a-century domestic violence scene!"

Having finished thinking this, the person eagerly resumed the livestream.

...

Kiana looked at Mei, puzzled.

"Mei, what happened? What's wrong with you?"

Mei remained silent.

Kevin, seeing Mei's expression, understood and calmly said,

"It seems you've made your choice."

Mei shifted her gaze from Kiana to Kevin and spoke calmly.

"I'll go with you."

Kevin nodded.

"Very good."

"Raiden Mei, welcome to World Serpent!"

Before Kevin finished speaking, Kiana couldn't help but interrupt their conversation.

"Wait a minute!!!"

"You mean, Mei, you're joining World Serpent?"

Mei remained silent.

Seeing this, Kiana's panic reached its peak. Looking at Mei, she questioned her.

"Mei, what's wrong? What did he do to you?"

Seeing Kiana's anxious gaze, Mei finally spoke.

"Kiana, I'm perfectly sober now."

"This is my own decision. Leave me alone."

Mei's calm voice reached Kiana's ears like a thunderclap. Kiana shouted.

"Why?"

But Mei didn't answer.

Seeing Mei's silence, Kiana's heart sank, and her face hardened.

"Don't joke around. I won't agree!"

"I won't let you go to World Serpent."

Seeing Kiana's firm attitude, Mei did not know what to say for a moment and could only call Kiana's name.

"Kiana?"

Kevin, seeing this scene, said to Mei.

"It seems you still have some things to resolve."

"Tell her what you want to say, but don't waste too much time."

Mei listened to Kevin's words and fell silent.

"What do I want to say?"

"If I tell her those reasons, will I gain her understanding? Will I be able to leave with a clear conscience?"

"No... that will only make her feel more guilty, more pained."

Mei pondered in her heart.

"What I want to say, I've said countless times in my heart... Kiana, it's so good to have met you, to have experienced so many stories with you, to have created so many memories."

"Go and do what you want. Go and achieve your dreams. Let me walk into darkness, so that you may return to the light."

After Kevin finished speaking, he turned and left.

Leaving behind his last words.

"Go and say your final goodbye to her, Raiden Mei."

"Welcome to this world."

Kiana looked at the two of them. She looked at Mei like this, her eyes filled with confusion and doubt, and cried out sadly.

"Mei, why!"

"You know everything they've done!"

Mei listened to Kiana's accusation and coldly replied.

"I don't care."

Then the two started fighting.

Kiana shouted at Mei.

"You idiot, I won't let you go!"

But Kiana's attacks were harmless to Mei. However, the damage Mei inflicted on Kiana was severe.

Several rounds passed.

Mei reached out and grabbed Kiana by the neck, lifting her up. Her eyes icy, she spoke.

"Hmph, that's enough, Kiana."

Countless red lightning bolts pierced Kiana's body, and Kiana screamed.

"Ah!"

Then she collapsed to the ground, watching vaguely as Mei carried her away.

"Mei!"

Watching Mei gradually disappear into the distance, Kiana said unwillingly.

"No, it's not over yet."

"I absolutely, absolutely won't let you go!"

Kiana once again unleashed the power of the Herrscher of the Void, becoming Void Drifter. She continued her attack on Mei. Mei, seeing this, shouted sharply.

"Kiana, you shouldn't use that power anymore."

But Kiana did not listen, continuing her attack on Mei, her mind filled with memories of their life together.

"Mei!"

Mei looked at Kiana, who was relentlessly using the Herrscher of the Void. Her eyes grew colder as she said.

"Enough!"

Then red electricity bound Kiana again, but she dodged it all and closed in.

But Mei blocked it.

Kiana looked at Mei floating in the air, at those emotionless eyes, and knelt on the ground. She stroked her arm and cried out in sorrow.

"Mei, no... no!"

.......

“Cat Cat: I can't stand it. They're really going to fight! Can't they just sit down and talk it out?!”

“Want to Buy An Island: Just as I expected, they're going to fight in the end.”

“The Number One Cutest in the World: Kiana can't beat Mei right now, and she can't stop Mei either.”

“Don't Want to Go to Work: Is this a large-scale domestic violence scene? Mei is beating up Kiana. It's like a family drama.”

“Miss Elf: After all, only this way can Kiana feel better and not overthink things. It's just that Kiana is getting beaten up so badly.”

“Dr. Lobsterhead: I didn't expect Mei to be so scary when she's angry. I advise Kiana not to provoke Mei, otherwise…”

In reality, Kiana was already shrinking back, trembling as she watched this scene.

Provoking Mei will result in Mei beating her up.

No, she absolutely can't let this happen.

This concerns her status in the family!

"I need to get stronger!"

Xiyue, ever the drama queen, continued to tell the viewers in the livestream.

"This is nothing! The real highlight is the short animation that follows!"

"This is just the appetizer for the domestic violence scene."

"Without further ado, let's witness a massive domestic violence scene!"

Then the short animation "Lament of the Fallen" began playing!

Dark clouds filled the sky, oppressive and suffocating. Lightning flashed between the clouds, with bolts streaking across the sky from time to time.

Mei looked up at the sky, and as if summoned by some unseen force, the lightning hidden in the clouds surged even more violently.

"We met on the rooftop, didn't we?"

She turned to look at Kiana lying on the ground in front of her, her voice devoid of any emotion.

"I won't let you go!"

Kiana gritted her teeth, gripping the safety net at the edge of the rooftop, and struggled to her feet.

"With your weakened state?"

With her back to Kiana, Mei let out a merciless sneer and glanced at her sideways.

"With... my fists!"

Kiana shoved herself against the protective net, using the momentum to charge at Mei, her right fist clenched and aiming for her face!

But Mei, as if prescient, dodged Kiana's attack effortlessly. Kiana's left fist followed immediately, but it was also easily dodged.

At this moment, Kiana was exhausted and had not yet gained new strength. Mei sidestepped again, kicked out, and caused Kiana to lose her balance and fall heavily to the ground.

Using her fall as leverage, Kiana kicked Mei with all her might, finally forcing her back. Then Kiana rolled to her feet and charged straight at Mei. The two were locked in combat once more!

It was less a battle and more a one-sided crushing defeat. Enhanced by the power of lightning, Mei's physical abilities were vastly different from before, while Kiana...

She had fallen countless times, yet Kiana persevered, rising again and again. She knew that if she gave up this time, she might never see Mei again...

She stood up, charged forward, and threw a punch!

Her steps were unsteady, but her punches were still incredibly powerful!

Seemingly weary of this "battle," as Kiana charged toward her, lightning flickered around Mei's body. Her abundant Honkai energy flowed freely within her, and with a single kick, she sent Kiana flying ten meters away!

Kiana rolled several times on the ground before finally crashing into a bench, barely stopping. The pain shooting through her internal organs made her feel as if she might lose consciousness at any moment. She bit her tongue, struggling to stay conscious.

"I... won't give up!"

She almost screamed these words, hurling a nearby bench with all her might to block Mei's view as she charged toward her!

But to Kiana's surprise, the bench was severed in two by invisible lightning just a meter from Mei.

Their eyes met, one pleading, the other resolute.

In a flash, Mei used her palm as a blade, fine electricity coursing between her fingers. Before Kiana could react, Mei closed in, knocking her back with a single blow!

The lightning crackling in Mei's palm invaded Kiana's body the instant their bodies made contact, paralyzing her completely and rendering her immobile. Although she only needed a second to regain control of her body, Mei would not give her that chance.

Mei's offensive continued relentlessly, landing over a dozen consecutive blows. The final strike landed squarely on Kiana's abdomen, the force sending her crashing through the rooftop railing and plunging onto the playground, creating a cloud of dust and a deafening roar!

Mei, panting heavily, remained in the stance of her final attack, stunned for a long time.

The thunder in the clouds seemed to gradually subside...

However, a sudden change occurred!

A dozen spatial rifts suddenly appeared around Mei.

From them, dozens of Subspace Lances shot out, immobilizing her at near-perfect angles and severing her connection with the power of lightning.

Then the final rift shot out from directly in front of her, stopping just short of her throat, as if ready to pierce it at any moment!

Thud!

Thud!

Thud!

Thud!

…

A crisp sound of footsteps suddenly rang out. Directly in front of Mei, at the gap where Kiana had fallen, a figure gradually emerged, covering her left eye.

Steps formed from Honkai energy appeared out of thin air beneath her feet. Her long skirt and hair fluttered in the wind behind her.

The lightning surging in the clouds seemed to have encountered an existence that could rival its master and gradually subsided.

Seeing Kiana use the Herrscher of the Void's power again, Mei's face darkened further. She closed her eyes in agony, unable to maintain her composure any longer.

"You've always been like this...

Kiana, you've always been like this!

Even though you're covered in wounds, you still force yourself to smile.

"You saved me, you saved everyone, but you have to bear all the pain alone... even at the cost of your life!"

Kiana interrupted Mei, her right hand clenching tightly before releasing weakly.

"Mei, this is... my mission..."

The lightning on Mei's body suddenly intensified.

She shattered the barriers controlling her body, gripping the Subspace Lance tightly at her throat.

Its sharp tip drew a deep gash across her neck!

"Saving the world, I understand all that grand mission! But... how can you expect me to endure all this!" Mei's cold voice continued.

"Mei, no!"

Kiana, disregarding the backlash from the Herrscher energy in her left eye, tried to regain control of Mei.

But having learned from past mistakes, Mei was no longer easily stopped.

The Subspace Lance before her, unable to withstand the pressure, exploded violently, unleashing the power of the Herrscher of Thunder within her and drawing down all the heavenly lightning!

Basked in the lightning, Mei gritted her teeth and shouted, word by word:

"I only know that in my heart, more than this world—"

"You are more important!"

The lightning gradually dissipated, and the power within surged into Mei's body. She slightly bent her knees, instantly transforming into a bolt of lightning that shot toward Kiana, who had risen into the air.

The incoming Subspace Lance could not even get close to Mei, vanishing before her eyes.

Seeing that she could not stop the lightning, Kiana conjured a Honkai crystal hundreds of meters long before her, blocking its path, but it was still shattered with overwhelming force!

In the sky, crimson lightning struck the white figure directly. The lightning froze in midair, and the white figure plummeted like a meteor. The deafening roar and shockwave stirred up thunder and halted the downpour.

Blinding sunlight pierced through the clouds, drenching Kiana, who was falling helplessly. She saw Mei's body and back slowly materializing with a dark red halo and armor. Mei's long, flowing black hair grew wildly, spreading out in all directions, and crimson lightning covered her entire body.

Mei's hands hovered loosely at her left side, as if holding an invisible longsword. The armor on her back moved at her will, poised to strike...

"Perhaps for you, I would be an enemy of the whole world, but that moment on the rooftop, the moment you reached out your hand to me, you became my whole world..."

Thousands of meters in the sky, a flash of light tens of meters long struck the falling white figure precisely, but caused no real damage. It merely temporarily dispersed her Herrscher energy.

Even as she lost consciousness, Kiana's hand was still raised, as if trying to grasp something...

Seeing Kiana about to fall to the ground, Mei grabbed her hand and stopped her fall.

"That day, you reached out your hand to me. From the moment you took my hand, my destiny was changed by you. You are the most important person in my life..."

Mei slowly closed her eyes. When she opened them again, her eyes were filled with tenderness.

Back on the rooftop, looking at the unconscious girl, Mei was filled with reluctance, but she had to leave.

"If saving you is a sin, then let me be the sinner."

Mei turned around, and a crimson dragon appeared beside the rooftop. Its flapping wings stirred up gusts of wind, but it would vanish into thin air before it could even reach the girl.

Mei took one last look at the girl.

A look that lasted an eternity.

"Goodbye, Kiana..."

---

CHAPTER Extra: Pardo

During her time with the Thirteen Flamechasers at Fire Moth headquarters.

As night fell, the Fire Moth members, with nothing to do, all returned home to sleep and await the coming of day.

But for one person, the night was her time to act!

Under the moonlight, a dark figure silently flashed across walls and rooftops, heading toward the town's tower.

The figure disappeared into the shadows beside the tower. Then a head with cat ears peeked out. She surveyed her surroundings, and only after confirming no one was around did she retract her head and disappear into the shadows once more.

She took a kitten from the hood behind her neck and placed it in front of her, instructing it.

"Can, you have to be quiet later, okay? Don't let Vill-V see you."

"Meow~"

Can meowed softly, indicating that it understood, and was then placed back into the hood by its owner.

The cat-eared woman carrying Can was none other than Pardofelis, one of the Thirteen Flamechasers who bore the Signet of "Reverie."

As for why she was here, it was obviously to "buy" some goods.

After peeking out again to make sure no one was watching, Pardo stealthily followed the shadows to the tower's locked door. She took out a small hook, inserted it into the lock, and after hearing a click, withdrew it.

Having successfully unlocked the door, Pardo pressed her head against it, listening intently to the sounds coming from the room behind it. Once she confirmed there was no noise, she slowly turned the doorknob, gently pushed the door open, slipped through the narrow gap, and quietly closed the door behind her.

Pardo leaned against the door and let out a sigh of relief. She was safe and sound. Now it was time to find her target cargo.

Pardo tiptoed into Helixcraft, her cat ears standing straight up and constantly on guard. She didn't want Vill-V to discover she was buying goods from her. Otherwise, the Vill-Vs wouldn't let her off the hook. "Expert" Vill-V would use her to test new inventions, "Magician" Vill-V would use her to perform new magic tricks, and "Chef" Vill-V would... While none of these would actually endanger her life, they would certainly be unpleasant!

Upon entering Helixcraft, Pardo saw many technological creations scattered around, such as spherical guide robots, humanoid combat robots, cannons, and other devices, many with a distinctly Vill-V style.

These machines were piled up haphazardly. Pardo wasn't sure whether what she was looking for was inside, so she had to search through them just in case. She took out a piece of paper with pictures of the goods drawn on it and started looking for them.

Can climbed from Pardo's hood onto her shoulder, craned its neck to study the paper in Pardo's hand, and after memorizing the drawings, jumped off and slipped deeper into Helixcraft.

Pardo, seemingly unaware that Can was gone, continued diligently searching through the goods.

"Anti-Kevin Weapon - 37."

"Anti-Kevin Weapon - 59."

"Anti-Kevin Weapon - 189."

"Anti-Kevin Weapon - 270."

"Anti-Kevin Weapon..."

"I know Vill-V has been making equipment to deal with Boss Kevin, but this is going too far."

Pardo wiped the sweat from her brow, looked up at the pile of mechanical artifacts with some surprise, then lowered her head and continued searching.

After searching for an unknown amount of time, Can emerged from deeper within Helixcraft and ran to Pardo's side. It placed the item it was carrying on the ground, looked up at its owner, and meowed.

"Can, be good. Keep it down! Once I find the goods, we can slip away!"

Without turning around, Pardo nuzzled Can with her tail in reassurance before continuing her search.

"Meow!"

Can meowed twice more, calling for its owner.

But Pardo still didn't turn around and continued searching.

Can realized that no matter how much it meowed, its owner wouldn't turn around, so it silently stayed beside Pardo, waiting for her to finish.

While waiting, Can heard a strange sound. Looking toward its source, it instantly bristled.

Pardo's tail had swiped against a cannon-shaped weapon aimed at Kevin. By sheer coincidence, it activated the weapon. The muzzle glowed white, clearly beginning to charge.

Don't ask why her tail hit it. The answer is simple: cats' tails have minds of their own!

What really infuriated Can was that the anti-Kevin cannon was aimed directly at Pardo, who was rummaging through the goods.

"Meow meow meow meow meow..."

Can cried out anxiously, grabbing Pardo's skirt to urge her to get away.

Just as the anti-Kevin weapon was about to fire, Pardo, unable to concentrate because of Can's cries, finally turned around. She crouched down, picked up Can, and pouted.

"Can—I'm busy. Can't you be quiet—ah!"

Biu—

Before Pardo could finish speaking, an orange beam of light swept past her head, startling her so badly that she immediately dropped to the ground with Can in her arms!

BOOM!!

The anti-Kevin weapon behind them exploded violently, scattering countless fragments everywhere.

When the explosion subsided, Pardo stood up, shook the small pieces of debris from her body, and stared blankly at the pile of junk that had been turned into Kevin-killing weaponry.

"Can, what did you do?"

"Meow meow meow. (It's none of my business!)"

Can scratched Pardo's leg unhappily with its little paw, expressing its displeasure.

"Never mind. Let's run away first. Otherwise, Sister Vill-V will definitely turn us into canned cats... Can, what's this?!"

Pardo bent down, picked up Can, and prepared to run away, but noticed a small cube at its feet. It turned out to be the device she had been looking for.

"So it was here! It was right under my nose, and I didn't even see it!!"

"Meow meow meow! (I found it!)"

Can climbed into Pardo's hood. Hearing its owner's words, it meowed twice more to express its dissatisfaction.

Pardo chuckled, reached out to pat Can's head to soothe it, and then left Helixcraft.

After finishing this job, she needed to lie low for a while until Vill-V calmed down before returning. Otherwise, if Vill-V came back and saw her inventions blown to pieces, she'd definitely be so angry she'd turn her into a cat can.

...

After leaving Helixcraft, Pardo jogged to Mobius's lab.

Pushing open the door, she went inside. Mobius had been waiting for a while. Seeing Pardo enter, she grinned and said, "Little kitty, you made quite a scene."

"Ahem, Snake Sister, you knew?"

Pardo scratched her head awkwardly, somewhat embarrassed.

"Of course. By the way, where's the stuff?"

Mobius held out her hand to Pardo, asking for the item.

"The stuff? Oh, Snake Sister, don't worry. I can get my hands on anything."

Seeing that Mobius showed no interest in her blowing up Vill-V's invention, Pardo quickly changed the subject, taking the small cube from her pocket and handing it to Mobius.

Mobius took the cube, examined it for a while, and after confirming it was correct, picked up the small bag on the table and tossed it to Pardo.

Pardo caught the bag, opened it to confirm its contents, then said goodbye to Mobius and prepared to go home, pack her things, and lie low.

"Oh, by the way. Happy birthday, little kitty."

Mobius was playing with the small cube when she suddenly looked at Pardo, who was leaving. Seeing Pardo turn around with a shocked expression, Mobius immediately looked away and said in a slightly arrogant tone, "Hey, little kitty, don't overthink it. Elysia begged me to do this. It's not like I wanted to..."

"Snake Sister, thank you. I'm so happy..."

Before Mobius could say anything else, Pardo pounced on her, hugging her and nuzzling her face affectionately. Mobius quickly pushed her away, shoved her out of the lab, and closed the door.

After seeing Pardo off, Mobius picked up the small cube and pressed it a few times, seemingly activating it. She casually tossed it into the nearby inflatable pool, then took off her clothes and lay down in the pool in her undergarments. Mobius immediately let out a comfortable groan.

"Phew Much better"

"That Vill-V. All I asked her for was a cryogenic device, but she absolutely refused to give me one, forcing me to ask Pardo to go over there. Honestly."

"I'll have to install an air conditioner in the lab in a couple of days. This weather is unbearably hot."

...

...

Pardo, humming a tune as she was wheeled out of the lab, headed toward her apartment. She'd made a killing today thanks to Snake Sister's commission, but it was a shame she needed to "disappear" for a few days to avoid trouble.

As Pardo hummed her tune and pushed open the door, the apartment lights suddenly switched on. A figure holding a fist-thick stick pressed it against Pardo's head.

"Hey, Pardo..."

Thump—

Pardo instantly knelt on the ground, clasped her hands together in front of her chest, and quickly apologized.

"Sister Vill-V! I'm sorry! It was an accident! I didn't mean to! I won't do it again!..."

Pardo's actions completely baffled Vill-V, who was holding a celebratory cannon. What was she doing...?

Just as Vill-V stood there completely bewildered, wondering what Pardo was doing, Elysia emerged from the room, equally dumbfounded by the scene before her.

"Pardo, Vill-V, what's going on...?"

"Elysia, help me!"

Seeing Elysia, Pardo instantly clung to her leg like a drowning person grasping at a straw, pleading for help.

Elysia seemed to understand. She immediately patted Pardo's head and said to Vill-V, "See? I told you you'd scare Pardo."

"Who knew Pardo was so easily frightened?"

Vill-V shrugged helplessly. She had intended to surprise Pardo but had ended up startling her instead.

"I'm so sorry, little Pardo."

Seeing this, Pardo realized Vill-V hadn't come to confront her about the earlier incident. She breathed a sigh of relief, released Elysia's leg, stood up, and smiled.

"Vill-V, I'm alright."

After clearing up the misunderstanding, the three went into the living room, where Eden sat on the sofa, seemingly waiting for them.

"Eden, you're here too?"

"Pardo, I'm sorry to have come uninvited."

"Eden, what are you saying? I'm overjoyed to have you as a guest. How could I be unhappy?"

Pardo sat down beside Eden, held her hand, smiled, and then asked, "Eden, what brings you here?"

"We've come, of course, to..."

Eden smiled, exchanged a glance with Elysia and Vill-V, and pulled out a cake with colorful lit candles from behind her back.

Elysia placed a paper crown on Pardo's head, and Vill-V fired a celebratory cannon.

The three of them shouted in unison, "Happy Birthday, Pardo!!"

Pardo froze, stunned by the scene. She hadn't expected the three of them to gather at her house to celebrate her birthday.

"Blow out the candles, Pardo."

Amid their expectant gazes, Pardo blew out the candles on the cake. Then, amid their cheers, she picked up a plastic knife, cut the cake, and shared it.

"As expected of Vill-V, the cake is delicious!"

Pardo licked the cream from her fork and praised Vill-V, who was sitting on the sofa opposite her.

Vill-V was quite pleased to receive praise for her "own" cake.

"If you like it, you can come to Helixcraft. I'll make one for you when I have time."

Uh... Helixcraft...

"Hahaha, okay..."

Recalling that she had just blown up half of Helixcraft, Pardo felt a little guilty and agreed with a forced laugh.

After finishing the cake, it was time for the gift-giving.

Eden pulled out a fist-sized gem and placed it in Pardo's hand with a smile.

"Pardo, this is your birthday present."

"Wow! What a huge gem!"

Pardo exclaimed as she looked at the sparkling gem in her hand. Then, snapping back to reality, she quickly wiped the drool from her mouth and returned the gem to Eden.

"Eden, this is too precious. I can't accept it!"

"Oh, Pardo, just accept it. It's your birthday present."

Under Eden's persuasion, Pardo accepted the large gem and sincerely thanked her.

After Eden finished giving her gift, it was Elysia's turn. She took a ball from behind her and placed it in front of Pardo. Pardo looked at it in confusion, then suddenly sniffed it, her eyes becoming dreamy.

"Aili, what's this?"

"It's catnip! I asked Dr. Mei to bring it from outside."

Elysia grinned and handed the catnip to Pardo. Pardo licked it and instantly became intoxicated, unable to control herself for a moment.

Elysia took the opportunity to pull Pardo into her arms. Together with Eden and Vill-V, they started petting the cat.

"It feels so good!"

---